Homewood Star October 2015

The Homewood Star Volume 5 | Issue 7 | October 2015

neighborly news & entertainment for Homewood

Bigger plans

Bewitched

HMS student works around challenges from neurological disorder

Witches will flood Homewood streets on bikes on the day before Halloween.

Find the details on this year’s event inside.

Community page A18

Home inspiration Homewood Middle School student Andrew Droste uses a laptop to help comprehend what he reads through an audio program called SOLO. His IEP (individualized education program) with the school began after he was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF). Photo

by Ron Burkett.

By MADOLINE MARKHAM

Find tips and tricks on caring for your home and garden in this month’s special advertising section.

Starting in second grade, Andrew Droste faced a series of learning difficulties. He had a high IQ and could read individual words but couldn’t comprehend them in a sentence. He was diagnosed with a general reading, writing and spelling disorder. But without a specific diagnosis, it was hard for his teachers and parents to determine how to best help him.

Then in the summer before he started fifth

grade at Edgewood Elementary, Dr. Elizabeth Peters, his pediatrician at Mayfair Medical Group, noticed a dark spot on his hand. As it turned out, he had 28 of these café au lait spots on his body, mostly hidden under his clothes where his mom, Ashley Henson, hadn’t seen them.

“I was astonished,” Henson said.

From the time he was born, Andrew had a giraffe stuffed animal named Raffie whose spots have now worn off. He and his family

joke that Raffie transferred his spots to Andrew.

Soon a diagnosis of neurofibromatosis (NF) would explain both the spots and his learning difficulties. The neurological disorder’s most common type, type 1, affects about 1 in 3,000 people worldwide. It causes developmental changes in the nervous system that vary in each person. Many patients develop benign tumors,

See NF | page A26

Special page B9

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Trinity, Oakmont move toward merger

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Two Homewood United Methodist churches could soon become one.

Oakmont UMC and Trinity UMC have been in the process of merging. As Trinity’s Senior Pastor Brian Erickson defines it, that means “leveraging two congregations’ resources to further the mission of the overall body of Christ.”

As a result of a merger, there would be one formal church leadership structure and two campuses. The current Oakmont campus would host a congregation in West Homewood under the direction of Trinity, and Oakmont minister Jack Hinnen would serve as the Oakmont campus pastor.

According to Hinnen, Oakmont’s membership has been dwindling and no longer represents the community around it.

See MERGER | page A27

Oakmont United Methodist Pastor Jack Hinnen and Trinity UMC Senior Pastor Brian Erickson’s churches are in the process of merging. Photo by Frank Couch.

King Acura Alabama Acura Dealers

1687 Montgomery Hwy Hoover, al 35216 (205) 979-8888

The Homewood Star

A2 • October 2015

About Us Please Support our Community Partners

Meet our new staff Cameron Tipton Cameron Tipton, a Birmingham native, recently returned after graduating from the University of Alabama with a degree in journalism. During her time in Tuscaloosa, she volunteered at The Crimson White and interned at The Tuscaloosa News. For two weeks during her final semester, she took her love of storytelling to England and Wales while working on a travel magazine called Alpine Living.

With her experiences in tow, she is excited to be back home and to join the team at Starnes Publishing. She is ready to help tell the stories of her hometown.

Jon Anderson Jon Anderson has 23 years of professional experience in reporting, writing, editing and management. He worked for The Birmingham News for all 23 years (including the last three years as a part of the Alabama Media Group, which publishes the AL.com website and The Birmingham News).

Since graduating from the University of Alabama in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, Jon has covered a variety of subjects, including business, legislative and municipal elections, Shelby County and Hoover. From 2006 to 2012, he oversaw reporting teams in Hoover and western Jefferson County.

In 2012, The Birmingham News reorganized as part of a new company called the Alabama Media Group. Many jobs were eliminated, but Jon went back to reporting in Hoover. He did that for the past three years and is excited to continue coverage of Hoover and other Over the Mountain areas for Starnes Publishing.

Editor’s Note By Madoline Markham Sometimes my life feels like the community section of this paper. There’s this event, that event, this thing to do, that thing to do.

They’re all great things, but nonetheless never seem to let me stop and breathe.

But when I step into an interview for a feature story, time slows. My sole purpose is to learn someone’s story. In those moments, I can’t think about what must be done next because I’m fully present as a listener and note taker. In those moments, life takes on a myriad of deeper dimensions.

As I look back at this issue, it’s not the hundreds of details we compiled that stand out. It’s the people. It’s Ashley Henson’s beaming face as she talks about how proud she is of her son (cover story).

It’s Rev. Brian Erickson and Rev. Jack Hinnen’s candor about their hopes for a potential church merger and the boldness it requires (cover story). It’s the understanding of Kay Vinson’s art I developed after learning her life story (A22). It’s the number of times Barry Abes mentioned Grille 29’s Chocolate Souffle when he was touring me around

the interior of the new restaurant (A11).

As I am reminded time and time again, that’s Homewood. Homewood knows its people. We just get to add to that conversation, bringing the highlights of the hours and hours of conversations we’ve had with the people around you into print.

I will inevitably run from festival to festival and meeting to meeting as fall escalates, but I’m grateful for all the ways you, Homewood, ground me where I want my focus to be — on the people around me.

The Homewood Star Publisher: Creative Director: Managing Editor: Managing Editor: Sports Editor: Staff Writers: Community Reporters: Editorial Assistant: Copy Editor: Graphic Designer: Advertising Manager: Sales and Distribution:

Contributing Writer: Contributing Photographer: Intern: Published by:

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Sydney Cromwell Madoline Markham David Knox Katie Turpen Erica Techo Roy L. Williams Jon Anderson Cameron Tipton Louisa Jeffries Andrew Anderson Matthew Allen Warren Caldwell Don Harris Michelle Salem Haynes Brittany Joffrion Rhonda Smith Lauren Denton Frank Couch Sam Chandler The Homewood Star LLC

Contact Information: The Homewood Star #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 Dan@TheHomewoodStar.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: madoline@starnespublishing.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253

For advertising contact: Dan@TheHomewoodStar.com

Legals: The Homewood Star is published monthly. Reproduction or use of

editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Homewood Star is designed to inform the Homewood community of area school, family and community events. Information in The Homewood Star is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of The Homewood Star. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

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Addiction Recovery Program at UAB (A16) Adventure Travel (A3) Alabama Acura Dealers (A1, A11) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (A6) Alabama Outdoors (B2) Alabama Power (A28) Alys Stephens Center, Art Play (A24) Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center (A19) Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama (A20) ARC Realty (B9) Batts’ Chimney Services (B15) Bedzzz Express (B24) Ben Franklin - One Hour (B16) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (A6) Birmingham Tennis Academy (B2) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (B3) California Closets (A17) Christopher Glenn (B18) Uncorked on the Green (A21) Classic Gardens (B19) Construx (B15) Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare (B3) Dish’n It Out (A23) ERA King Real Estate Homewood (B4) EW Fit (A3) FBC Mortgage/Nicole Brannon ARC Realty (B10) Gina G Falletta, State Farm (A26) Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders (B5) Homewood Antiques and Marketplace (B20) Homewood Carpet & Flooring (A16) Homewood Chamber of Commerce (A7) Homewood Family and Cosmetic Dentistry (A27) Homewood Parks and Rec (B8) Homewood Toy & Hobby (B6) Issis & Sons (A9) JJ Eyes (A5) Joe Falconer (A26) Johnny Montgomery Realtor (A20) Junior League of Birmingham (A8) Kasey Davis Dentistry (A4) Kete Cannon, RE MAX Southern Homes (A17) Korduroy Krocodile (A26) L.V. Berry Inc. (A23) LIST Birmingham (A14, A15) Mantooth Interiors (B19) Mary House Kessler, Ph.D (B23) Nix Design Build (B17) Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics (A18) Phoenix Builders (B18) Planet Fitness (A13) PlumCore (B11) Rehaba (A13) Resolute Running Training Center (B21) Salem’s Diner (B23) Savage’s Bakery (A18) Sikes Childrens Shoes (B5) Simply Ponds (A24) Skin Wellness Center of Alabama (A10) Sweet Peas Garden Shop (B14) Target Auction Company (B4) The Maids (B6) The Whole Dog Market (A24) Tom Williams BMW (B7) Total Beauty and Skin Dermatology (B1) Urban Home Market (B13) Weigh To Wellness (A22) Willow Homes (B20) Wolf Camera (B23)

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A3

City Mayor’s Minute Dear friends and neighbors, Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a fundraiser for the Exceptional Foundation. The evening was called Dinnertainment and was held at the Birmingham Country Club. It was such a great event because it focused on the participants at the Exceptional Foundation and spotlighted their talents. Wonderful paintings they worked so hard on lined the walls for auction, wine glasses were painted by them, and they all participated in singing and dancing. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the building when they sang, “What a Wonderful World.”

The Exceptional Foundation is located right here in Homewood, and we are fortunate to have them. For those of you not familiar with this organization, it is located at the entrance of Central Park on Oxmoor Road, and their mission is to serve mentally and physically challenged individuals in the Greater Birmingham area. They currently serve approximately 400 families, and I can think of no greater cause to support. Please take a moment to drop by and visit them and see what an incredible outreach program we have. And if you are looking for a good cause to support financially, please consider the Exceptional Foundation.

With fall approaching, Homewood is about to become a beautiful place with our leaves changing colors and the air getting cooler. Our football team is off to a great start, and we are so proud of them. And our band is incredible again! There is no surprise there, but it’s a testament to the dedication and hard work our students put in each week preparing for the game, whether they are playing football, cheering, or performing in the band.

This time of year also means we are working on

the budget for the city. I have already submitted my proposed budget to the council, and they are working on it making sure our visions coincide. I appreciate the hard work they do in the Finance Committee, and I believe we will pass a budget this year that will give us some great opportunities for the near future.

One project I hope will make it in the budget is the 18th Street Revitalization Project, extending the look of 18th Street past Central Avenue toward the end of Highway 280. I believe it can certainly help the look of the area around the Post Office and if done correctly, even provide some additional parking for our businesses.

We are also considering adding additional funding for some substantial repaving of our residential streets. Over the years, the utility companies have done some major digging in our streets, and many repairs need to be made. Volkert Engineering has been hired to help assist us with our longterm outlook and forecasting of street paving. I plan to discuss some more projects we are currently pursuing in future articles.

Homewood is truly a unique and wonderful place because of neighbors like you supporting our city. Thank you for all you do!

Sincerely,

Scott McBrayer Mayor City of Homewood

Samford’s new business building dedicated

Samford leaders cut a ribbon to dedicate the new Brock School of Business building on Sept. 4. Photo by Madoline Markham.

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Samford University’s Brock School of Business has a new home. The school’s new Cooney Hall was dedicated on Sept. 4.

The building’s name was announced at the event in honor of Gary Cooney, vice chairman of McGriff, Seibels and Williams, Inc. and a Samford alumnus who pledged to underwrite half the cost of the building in 2013.

Sixty of the building’s rooms have been sponsored prior to its opening, raising $2.6 million toward the building cost. Davis Architects designed the Georgian brick structure, and HOAR Construction completed the project ahead of schedule.

One of the rooms will be named in memory of John Wyatt, who was the victim

of a plane crash in Shelby County in August.

The Samford alumnus was 38. His parents, Gary and Mary Wyatt, were present at the dedication.

Also during the ceremony, Buck Brock, Samford’s vice president for business and financial affairs, spoke about the role of his father, Harry Brock, the namesake of the business school. He also pointed out that wood donor board in the building was made from a large red oak that long stood where the building is now located on the south side of campus. He also noted that an i-beam in the top of the building was signed by his father and a set of students. “[My father] was proud of what was coming out of the ground here…” Brock said. “He is forever woven into this building.”

The Homewood Star

A4 • October 2015

New breast milk bank now ready to process milk locally

Ovarian cancer month declared

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Babies in local neonatal intensive care units will be able to drink breast milk that was donated and pasteurized locally for the first time later this month.

A ribbon-cutting for the new pasteurization lab at the Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama was held Sept. 1.

For the past two years the bank has been raising money for this equipment while sending all donated milk to Texas to be pasteurized.

The bank is housed at the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama in West Homewood, where executive director and Edgewood resident Mary Michael Kelley helped get it started.

Kelley saw firsthand the importance of breast milk, often called “liquid gold,” when two of her children were in the NICU. During the bank’s first year, more than 50 mothers have donated nearly 200 gallons of excess milk. Currently, the bank has 40 active donors in Birmingham. The Junior League of Birmingham and the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham both serve as financial supports for the new bank.

After milk is donated, it must be tested and pasteurized before it is frozen and delivered to area hospitals.

Katherine Wood and Kelley were trained and certified to pasteurize milk Sept. 14-17 by the Mothers’ Milk Bank of North Texas, and they can now train volunteers in the process. Volunteers from the community can help with the project, and Junior

Mayor Scott McBrayer presents a proclamation declaring September Ovarian and Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month in Homewood during a recent city council meeting. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Council dissolves CDRC

By SYDNEY CROMWELL Local residents celebrate the new pasteurization lab at Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama at a ribbon-cutting on Sept. 1. Photo by Madoline Markham.

League members will serve a placement there this year as well.

Whitney Adams, who attended the Sept. 1 ribbon-cutting, saw the importance of local milk when her son Deacon was born in November. Her milk had not come in yet, and a nurse at Brookwood Medical Center gave her and her husband donor milk.

“It was so terrific that we had that option,” Adams said. “They reassured

me my milk would come in too.”

And it did six days later. In the meantime, Deacon never had to drink formula, Adams said.

Adams works as a NICU nurse at Children’s of Alabama. There they also use donor milk, but from a different source, and hope to soon use it from the local bank.

For more information, visit mmbal.org or call 942-8911.

KaseyDavis

Dentistry

The Homewood City Council chose to dissolve the Community Development Review Committee (CDRC) for West Homewood in an 8-2 vote on Sept. 14.

Council members Peter Wright and Ward 2 Representative Fred Hawkins supported the dissolution because they felt it placed an extra burden on city staff and the public would get a chance to voice their opinions on potential development by going through the planning and zoning commission and the Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA).

The CDRC is not a public hearing format.

Hawkins’ ward-mate Vance Moody disagreed, stating that he has seen a history of West Homewood being underrepresented by the commission and the BZA. The elected nature of some of the CDRC positions would give it more accountability to residents.

He proposed instead to replace the staff positions on the CDRC with appointed members from Ward 2.

“Fred and I quite frankly do not agree on this,” Moody said.

The council, however, voted to dissolve the committee instead. It will continue to function until its sole current case, the redevelopment proposal of the Oxmoor Road Econo Lodge, is resolved.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A5

Mayor proposes $57 million budget for 2016

Mayor Scott McBrayer presents the FY 2016 budget. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL Budget talks are beginning again for the city of Homewood. Mayor Scott McBrayer gave his initial budget proposal for the 2016 fiscal year at a specially called meeting on Aug. 31. The budget totaled $57.4 million in expenditures, with an expected surplus at the end of the year.

The proposed budget is a 2.5 percent increase over the FY 2015 budget. The mayor gave only a cursory overview of his proposal, which will be discussed in more depth in city council work sessions.

McBrayer’s proposal included $4.85 million for capital projects, including phase 2 of the greenway project, sidewalk construction, a new fire engine to replace Homewood Fire Department’s Engine 1 and 15 new Chevy Tahoes for the police department. He noted that the council could choose to delay some projects until the next fiscal year and lower that expenditure.

The total suggested allocation for all police and fire expenses was around $20.4 million, which McBrayer noted is higher than some cities comparable to Homewood. However, he said that having Brookwood Hospital, Samford University and other large institutions in the city necessitated a larger public safety budget.

The school system would receive $15.9 million from the city, taken from sales and property taxes.

Homewood’s insurance premiums for city employees will increase by 7.8 percent in the new year, which McBrayer wants the city to pay for rather than passing the cost on to employees. He also requested a 1 percent cost of living adjustment for full time employees and allocation of over $200,000 for merit raises. If there is a surplus at the end of the year, McBrayer said he will request that it be used for an annual employee bonus.

Some of the surplus would also go into the city rainy day fund. Over the past three years, the surplus has ranged from a low of $279,000 to a high of $2.1 million, averaging $937,000 per year. The mayor said it takes about $100,000 to run the city each day, so these savings are critical for the city.

“I think it’s something the council can be excited about for one. It’s something you can be comfortable with,” McBrayer said.

“There are a lot of cities and counties that are proposing increases in sales tax and things like that,” Ward 3 Representative Walter Jones said at the close of the presentation. “I just make the point that we’re a penny below our neighbors already [on tax rates] and we devote that penny to the schools. I think it says a lot about the city and how we manage our money.”

The budget was scheduled to be approved before Oct. 1. For updates, visit thehomewoodstar.com.

Council drops parking sign requests

By SYDNEY CROMWELL With the agreement of the business owners, the city council chose to drop a sign variance request for the parking lot behind several 18th Street South shops.

David Brandt of Fravert Services had brought the request at the previous council meeting to install larger signs at the entrances of the parking lot behind 2800 to 2836 18th St. S. The signs would inform drivers that the lot is for customers only and violators will be

towed. Brandt needed variances both for size and the type, as the pole signs he proposed are not allowed by city code.

The council chose to carry over discussion on Aug. 10 due to an upcoming meeting of the ad hoc parking solutions committee. Ward 1 Representative Britt Thames hosted that meeting with several business owners on Aug. 20. After the meeting, both Brandt and the business owners wished to drop the sign variance request and work with the parking solutions committee to address their parking issues.

Governor signs annexation bill

By ERICA TECHO Gov. Robert Bentley has signed a bill that will allow Homewood to annex pockets of Jefferson County lands.

The bill passed the state legislature during its special session in August. With the governor’s signature, Homewood can bring six pockets of land into its jurisdiction.

Annexing these areas can prevent the confusion that comes from the difference in Jefferson County rules and Homewood’s rules.

“Your citizens live all around these properties

and expect these properties are a part of Homewood, and yet when it turns out they are complying with a different set of regulations, it causes a problem,” said Rep. David Faulkner.

Faulkner worked with Rep. John Rogers to help move the bill through the House. The bill was initially proposed by Sen. Jabo Waggoner.

This is the second time an annexation bill has gone before the state legislature, said Ward 2 Representative Fred Hawkins. The first time the bill failed, but conversation regarding an electronic billboard on Lakeshore Drive helped reignite conversation.

The Homewood Star

A6 • October 2015

Officers promoted to police sergeants

By MADOLINE MARKHAM For the first time in several years, four Homewood Police officers were promoted to sergeant. A pinning ceremony was held in their honor on Sept. 1.

Police Chief Jim Roberson said that this was the first time more than one officer has been promoted to sergeant since he has served as chief.

“It’s a big event in their life, in my life, in our city’s life,” Roberson said.

Mayor Scott McBrayer also commended the officers.

“I’m grateful you are serving here in Homewood,” he said.

The new sergeants are:

John Carr: 10 years with Homewood; 15 years policing; experience as field training officers and with the tactical team and task force.

Steve Hensley: nine years with Homewood; 21 years policing.

Jimmy King: nine years with Homewood; experience as a motor scout and corporal.

Justin Self: nine years with Homewood; 13 years policing; experience as a motor scout and warrant officer as well as with the tactical team and task force.

New Sgt. Steve Hensley is pinned at ceremony held Sept. 1. Photo by Madoline Markham.

Environmental Commission to look at downtown tree solutions

By MADOLINE MARKHAM

The Homewood council members at work in committee meetings. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

The Homewood Environmental Commission has some ideas in mind to address tree damage to downtown businesses without removing the trees on 18th Street South.

In an Aug. 31 special issues committee meeting, HEC member Liz Ellaby said the commission has already been in discussion with downtown business owners, who had brought their concerns to the council about repetitive building floods.

Ellaby said the HEC has solutions in mind that could replace the trees or relocate them “in a way that would please the merchants but still maintain some trees.” She did not go into more detail but said this would be a longterm action.

“I think we’re looking for tree solutions, not tree elimination here,” Ward 5 Representative Peter Wright said in response to a listening resident’s concern that the city would remove the trees entirely.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A7

Retaining wall signs proposed for Brookwood Village

Council declares cancer awareness month, amends animal tethering law

By SYDNEY CROMWELL Business at recent Homewood City Council meetings included: `` Approving payment of $5,000 to resolve parking drainage issues at Lee Center. `` Approving the mayor to enter an agreement with Volkert Engineering for a pavement management system. The council will pay for this with $9,600 allocated from the 7-cent gas tax. `` Approving an amendment to the city’s animal tethering law, stating that animals cannot be left tethered outside for more than one hour at a time. They also cannot be left unattended when tethered or in inhumane conditions.

Representatives of Brookwood Village have asked the council for approval to place store signs on the mall’s retaining wall.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL As part of negotiations with potential major retailers, representatives of Cypress Equities, the owner of Brookwood Village, have asked the Homewood City Council to allow them to put signs on the mall’s retaining wall.

The representatives, including Jessica Harcrow of Knight Signs, first presented this during Aug. 31 committee meetings. Cypress is in talks with multiple national chains, they said, but a sticking point in negotiations is that the mall’s monument signs are completely full with other retailers’ logos, leaving no room for new store signage.

Using the retaining walls requires a sign ordinance variance but would

allow the mall to advertise stores that are less visible from the road.

At the Sept. 14 council meeting, mall representatives brought ideas to get the council’s feedback, not definite plans.

They requested six or seven signs on the retaining wall to be built at roughly the same size as the current Brookwood Village and Z Gallerie signs on the wall.

The signs have not been measured due to the difficulty of accessing them, but they’re believed to be around four feet high.

The mall representatives proposed that all signs on the retaining wall would have a monochrome color, most likely bronze, and would be written in one of five preapproved fonts, not each store’s individual logo. Representatives also said that if needed, they would consider

removing the existing Brookwood sign on the wall to make room for a retailer sign.

Council members gave varying opinions on the number, size and fonts of the signs. Ward 5 Representative Peter Wright said the mall had to maintain a “delicate balance” between visibly advertising the stores and making the signs too big or otherwise unappealing, potentially driving away stores. He added that it was an important thing, however, to attempt to bring retailers to the empty first-floor spaces.

The public hearing on the signs was carried over until the next council meeting. Mall representatives will incorporate the council’s feedback into a formal proposal to present next time.

`` Approving a retail beer and table wine license for Oak and Raleigh, 705 Oak Grove Road. `` Authorizing the mayor to enter an ALDOT agreement to resurface part of Columbiana Road. `` Approving a $9,000 payment to ClasTran for services during the current fiscal year. `` Allowing the residents of 3107 Whitehall Road to build a parking pad of grass and paver stones in the city right-of-way. `` Approving a variance to the driveway ordinance for 105 Yorkshire Drive. `` Authorizing a new mailing system with Pitney Bowes, Inc. `` Adopting 2015 International Building, Residential, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fuel Gas, Existing Building, Property Maintenance, Energy Conservation, National Electrical and Fire Codes. `` Declaring the following city items surplus: three oil-burning heaters, a sandblaster’s parts and dust collector, a pneumatic bumper lift jack, an AC recycling machine and a street sweeper.

The Homewood Star

A8 • October 2015

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TheHomewoodStar.com

Now Open Oak and Raleigh is now open on the corner of Oak Grove Road and Raleigh Avenue in West Homewood. It is located across from Patriot Park at 705 Oak Grove Road. facebook.com/oakandraleigh

1

2

Pizza Hut is now open at 437 Green Springs Highway, Suite 121.

942-6535, pizzahut.com

Verizon Wireless is now open in the former Applebee’s space at 579 Brookwood Village. verizonwireless.com

3

Coming Soon Grille 29 is planning an early October opening on the Macy’s side of Brookwood Village in a freestanding building that was previously home to McCormick & Schmick’s. grille29.com

4

Relocations and Renovations The Wright Balance Massage has moved to a new location off Highway 31 at 1915 Courtney Drive, Suite 1. Licensed Massage Therapist Karen Wright opened the business in May. 527-7577, facebook.com/thewrightbalancemassage

5

Z Gallerie has moved to the upper level of Brookwood Village near BooksA-Million. The store sells home furnishings, art and accessories. It was previously located on the lower level of the mall.

879-1722, zgallerie.com

6

Hirings and Promotions Christopher Architecture & Interiors, 3040 Independence Drive, has hired Anna Holt as an interior design assistant.

413-8531, christopherai.com

7

Anniversaries J.J. Eyes, 2814 18th St. S., celebrated its one-year anniversary in September. The business is owned by J.J. Lamb.

703-8596, jjeyesoptical.com

8

Business news

to share?

Now Open Coming Soon

Relocation Expansion Anniversary

If you are in a brick and mortar business in Homewood and want to share your event with the community, let us know.

The Homewood Star Email dan@thehomewoodstar.com

October 2015 • A9

The Homewood Star

A10 • October 2015

Something old, something new Watkins family wedding store opening in old Homewood auto shop

By ERICA TECHO Traci Watkins grew up in Homewood, but she never thought she would one day own a bridal shop in town.

“I graduated from Homewood in 1978 and when I marched down this way, I would have never seen this coming,” Watkins said.

When the Malcolm Auto Services property went up for sale, Watkins and her husband decided to purchase it.

The Malcolm family are old friends, and bringing the building into another family business was fitting.

“It’s contiguous to our building [for Watkins Cleaning], and it made a lot of sense,” Watkins said.

Watkins said the idea for a bridal shop fit in with their family business — Watkins Cleaning has heirloomed and cleaned dresses since the 1950s.

“It just seemed like a natural flow for me to pick this up,” she said.

The building is currently under renovation, turning the vintage building into Village Bridal, a store Watkins hopes ties the old, including a pulley mounted to the building’s ceiling, with modern style.

Village Bridal will bring in designers and lines not currently sold in the state of Alabama, and she said the charm of Homewood helped when they were appealing to designers from

New Zealand and other countries.

“They just love the idea of Homewood,” she said. “They love the free-standing, vintage-style building.”

With two daughters in their early 20s, Watkins said she realizes that some brides are stepping away from traditional, church weddings. She wants the dresses at Village Bridal to reflect those changes and fit a wide range of weddings. The dress lines at the store will include glamour, artsy, bohemian and traditional styles.

Keeping in line with Watkins Cleaning’s family atmosphere, Watkins’ two daughters are also helping around the store. One designed the shop’s logo and both are helping with design elements and music choice, and they’ve also inspired the business side of things.

“We’re going to try and be kind to the dads of Homewood,” Watkins said, noting all dresses will cost between $1,100 and $3,500.

The goal, she said, is keeping the dresses high quality without hurting any checkbooks. Watkins Cleaning will also offer discounts on heirlooming dresses purchased at the store.

Watkins also said having dry-cleanable dresses is important to help maintain dresses.

“A lot of dresses can only be spotcleaned, but you’re going to end up ruining your dress that way,” she said.

Mary, Anna and Traci Watkins stand in front of the future home of Village Bridal. Mary and Anna are helping their mother with design elements around the store, bringing in their own flair. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Village Bridal will be appointment only, and brides can stop by or call ahead to schedule an appointment.

The shop includes three fitting rooms and three sitting areas for family and friends. As a sample shop, Village Bridal will have a variety of styles to choose from and clamp the dresses to fit at the initial trial. If the bride finds a dress, they will follow the designer’s specific measurements to find the best

size to order.

“And then our seamstress, she will size it to perfection,” Watkins said.

Watkins also plans to offer private appointments before or after regular business hours. These appointments will cost money, and the brides will have the whole store to themselves as well as drinks and snacks.

The store won’t open until after Nov. 1, but Watkins said she’s already

hoping to one day expand.

“There’s a lot of things we couldn’t do or wouldn’t be able to do well,” Watkins said. “This, we felt confident that we could do this.”

Village Bridal is located at 1701 28th Ave S. For updates on renovations and a look at the store’s wedding dress lines, follow @villagebridalhomewood on Instagram.

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TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A11

By land or by sea

Grille 29 brings steak and seafood menu to Brookwood

By MADOLINE MARKHAM After sitting vacant for three years, new life is coming to the former McCormick & Schmick’s building at Brookwood Village.

Grille 29, a Huntsville restaurant, is completing a $2 million interior renovation of the domed building and plans to start serving steak and seafood Oct. 6.

A 600-gallon freshwater fish tank anchors the center of the dining room and divides the bar from other areas. Booths surround an expanded bar, which also features a 12-seat community table. In all, the dining area seats around 230 guests.

The interior also boasts accents of copper, which is atomic number 29 on the periodic table of elements. The restaurant name also takes inspiration from Route 29, which leads to Napa Valley wineries.

Before guests are seated, they will pass a special pastry deck area where they can see chefs prepare desserts, salads and some appetizers. As they walk past, they will be able to smell one of the restaurant’s signature desserts, chocolate soufflé, baking.

“People love to see how their food is made,” General Manager Barry Abes said.

Behind the prep area, the kitchen has all-new equipment, including a wood-burning pizza oven.

“We are ready for the volume I know this area will bring,” said Abes.

The restaurant also features a banquet room that seats up to 80 and boasts projector and AV equipment. It will be used for regular dining when special functions aren’t occurring.

The new Birmingham menu is still being finalized by chef Daniel McMillan, who is coming from Greystone Country Club, but it will feature some of Huntsville’s signature items. On the Huntsville menu you will find

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Grille 29

Brookwood Village grille29.com Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

(top) Barry Abes, general manager for Grille 29, stands in front of the pastry area where diners can watch chefs prepare desserts, salads and more. Photo

by Madoline Markham. (bottom) Grille 29 is known for its sirloin steak. Photo courtesy of Grille 29.

Atlantic salmon, Stuffed Sea Scallops, Roast Half Duck and Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Closer to the top of the menu you’ll find Gorgonzola Fondue, Lobster Mac ’N Pimiento Cheese, Gruyere and Mushroom Sliders, Calamari and

a Kale Waldorf Salad.

Abes’ favorite dish favorite is an 8-ounce Filet Mignon of certified Hereford tenderloin seasoned with Grille 29’s blend of herbs and spices and served with a choice of two sides.

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The restaurant’s Grouper Oscar made the “100 dishes to eat in Alabama before you die” list.

The fish is pan-seared and topped with jumbo lump crabmeat, asparagus and hollandaise with a side of jasmine rice. Abes also raves about the Blackened Ahi Tuna, served with bamboo rice, a soy butter sauce and sesame asparagus.

“I’d put it up against any good sushi restaurant’s,” he said.

The Chicken and Waffles are only served for one meal a week, Sunday brunch, but they are still the sixth-best seller on the menu and sell out every week. A pecan butter sauce is served on top of the fried chicken over a waffle. Also on the Huntsville menu are Smoked Salmon Platter, Crab Cake Eggs Benedict and Grand Marnier French Toast.

Over at the bar, 36 wines are available by the glass, and around 90 by the bottle. Specialty cocktails will be served at all times and will be half price at happy hour, Monday to Friday from 3-6 p.m. A special bar bites menu will also be available at that time.

As the restaurant prepares to open, Grille 29’s Huntsville staff is training the new staff in Birmingham. Abes raves about his restaurant’s food, but he is perhaps most proud of the overall experience diners will have.

“The ambiance and level of service is amazing,” he said. “I think Homewood and Mountain Brook are geared for it.”

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The Homewood Star

A12 • October 2015

Patriot Day ceremony remembers Sept. 11 tragedy

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Elementary students watched in awe as doves were released in front of Homewood’s City Hall on Sept. 11. They weren’t alive when planes truck the World Trade Center 14 years ago, but after the Patriot Day ceremony, they have a greater understanding of the significance of the date.

The annual Patriot Day ceremony rotates locations between Homewood, Vestavia Hills and Mountain Brook.

Next year, it will be held in Mountain Brook.

“Sept. 11 is a reminder that evil and terror still exist, but it is also a reminder that when things are at their very worst, we are at our very best,” said Captain Christopher Tanner, the ceremony’s keynote speaker. Patriot Day was a joint ceremony held by Homewood, Vestavia Hills and Mountain Brook.

Tanner, a Mountain Brook native, was a student at West Point in 2001 and later served in Afghanistan. He now serves as the executive director and assistant professor of military science at UAB. “I remember the confusion, the horror, the anger and the uncertainty as we formed up outside,” Tanner said of that day. “That feeling was cemented in my gut as we saw the first plumes of smoke in the air from the burning rubble of the World Trade Center.”

Tanner recounted how he helped stage supplies for first responders and search and rescue crews across the river from the towers, and how he would later learn that 2,983 civilians, 343 firefighters and 72 police officers had lost their lives.

“In an instant our lives and futures changed,” Tanner said. “We saw ourselves galvanized toward a common goal, defeating extremism, vanquishing terror and continuing to show the world that we are a nation of hope.”

After performances from the Homewood High School show choir, an invocation and a singing of the national anthem, Brian Bowman played “Amazing Grace” on bagpipes as doves were released at the end of the ceremony.

Homewood firefighters Grant Kline and Taylor Hancock help raise a giant flag between two ladder trucks. Photos by Frank Couch.

Captain Christopher Tanner, the keynote speaker, relayed his emotions and experiences as a young soldier watching the events unfold in New York City.

The cities of Mountain Brook, Homewood and Vestavia Hills joined together for a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and Patriot’s Day Celebration at Homewood City Hall.

“

Sept. 11

is a reminder that

evil and terror still exist, but it is also

After the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and Patriot’s Day Celebration, firefighters lowered the giant flag.

”

a reminder that when things are at their very worst, we are at our very best

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A13

A14 • October 2015

The Homewood Star

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A15

The Homewood Star

A16 • October 2015

Chamber Brookwood CEO talks about hospital’s growth

By SYDNEY CROMWELL

`` So far in 2015, Stark said Brookwood has made $108,000 in charitable donations and has spent $13 million in capital improvements.

Chuck Stark, the new CEO of Brookwood Medical Center, talked about his hospital’s plans for growth and improvement at the Sept. 15 Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

Stark came into the position in January. He said Brookwood staff strive to fulfill the motto “one team, one goal” and to be enthusiastic and committed to their work every day.

Some of the changes Stark mentioned included: `` “Pristine” audits every quarter, where the aesthetics of the hospital are inspected for needed changes such as furniture repairs and new coats of paint. Stark said Brookwood spends about $150,000 a month on the repairs these audits uncover. `` On Sept. 1, Brookwood acquired Gardendale Surgery Center to make care more convenient for patients outside Homewood and Birmingham. Stark said he didn’t want to “expect people to come in to Brookwood to be treated.” `` Select Specialty, a long-term acute care facility, moved its patients from Trinity Medical Center to Brookwood on Sept. 15. `` Later this month, enhancements to the visitor parking deck will begin, with a total cost of $7.5 million. `` A new chief development officer, Doug Brewer, begins work Sept.

Chuck Stark of Brookwood Hospital, Meredith Drennen of the Homewood Chamber and Jonathan Hornsby of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

26. A new chief operating officer will assume her position Nov. 2, though her name has not been announced. `` On Oct. 2, Brookwood will sign a merger with Baptist Health Systems.

`` On Nov. 9, the hospital will open a new psychiatric intake unit. `` On Nov. 30, the Brookwood freestanding emergency department will open at the intersection of U.S. 280 and Highway 119 in Shelby County.

`` Brookwood has plans for an orthopedics and neurological care pavilion and six-story parking deck, which the city council approved in July. Stark said the building will offer surgery, imaging, physical therapy and physician offices.

The result of these projects, Stark said, would be “more growth and opportunity and jobs here in Homewood.”

Stark also addressed a recent study that put Brookwood in the top 50 U.S. hospitals for charging patients more than the cost of care. He said that the hospital has financial counselors and discounted rates for the uninsured, as well as charity care for those who cannot pay their medical bills.

So far in 2015, Stark said they had 960 charity care patients, at a cost of $2.9 million to Brookwood, and 2,429 uninsured patients who had paid, on average, about 19 percent of their total healthcare costs.

He said Alabama should expand its Medicaid program, which he said would increase the number of insured people so the hospitals are absorbing less of that cost. Stark said this could lead to lower insurance charges for all patients, as insured patients already pay for some of the losses hospitals experience from uninsured and charity patients.

“The states that have expanded Medicaid have seen hundreds of millions of dollars go into their economies,” Stark said. “The benefit will outweigh the cost longterm.”

The chamber will have its annual legislative roundtable on Oct. 20. For more, visit homewoodchamber.org.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A17

Community Jazz/funk, folk-inspired music coming to Vulcan

Williams interns with Senator Shelby

Kern Williams and Senator Richard Shelby.

Karl Denson.

Two AfterTunes concerts are scheduled for this month at Vulcan Park and Museum. The Sunday series will feature Karl Denson’s Fantastic Fall Tour on Oct. 11 and Dom Flemons on Oct. 25.

On Oct. 11, Richmond guitarist DJ Williams, Soulive drummer Alan Evans, Greyboy Allstars bassist Chris Stillwell, Crush Effects David Veith on the keys, and Seattle’s Chris Littlefield on the trumpet will join Denson for his original jazz and funk show.

Two weeks later, Dom Flemons,

a member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, will create new sounds that pull from traditions of old-time folk music. Flemons plays banjo, guitar, harmonica, fife, bones, bass drum, snare drum and quills, in addition to singing. His banjo repertoire includes not only clawhammer but also tenor and three-finger styles of playing.

At the concerts, food trucks and beer and wine vendors will be present, and attendees are invited to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. Gates will open at 1 p.m., opening acts begin at 3 p.m., and the

headliner acts will begin at 4 p.m.

Tickets are now on sale for all events. Admission is $15 for adults and $8 for Vulcan Members and children ages 5-12. Children 4 and under are free. Ticket price includes live music and admission to Vulcan’s Observation Tower and Museum. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served. Light snacks, beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase. No pets or outside alcohol are allowed.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit visitvulcan.com.

Homewood native Kern Williams interned with U.S. Senator Richard Shelby in the senator’s Washington office this summer.

While in Washington, Kern completed legislative research, conducted tours of the U.S. Capitol building and attended hearings on various important issues.

“The Congressional Internship Program provides students with a truly unique experience,” Senator Shelby said. “First-hand involvement in our nation’s legislative process provides these students with a realistic view of countless topics of

study found in the classroom. I have no doubt that each of these students will go on to achieve great things.”

Kern is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he is studying economics and international relations. While in college, Kern has been a writer for The Daily Tar Heel, UNC’s student-run newspaper. He is the son of Scott and Laura Williams.

Senator Shelby’s Congressional Internship Program is open to college students who exhibit an interest in government and public service.

The Homewood Star

A18 • October 2015

Witches ride to throw candy in set zones Rosedale Dr

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28th Ave S

18 Street S.

Start of Ride Begin Candy Zone One

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this year to make the ride safer and make cleanup easier.

Registration starts at 4:30 p.m., the line up at 5:30 p.m. and the ride at 5:45 p.m. The witches will depart from and return to Homewood Central Park.

Just as the Homewood Witches Ride’s founder

Witches will ride bikes through Homewood on Halloween eve for the third year in a row. The Homewood Witches Ride will take place Oct. 30.

Kids are invited to come out along the route to catch candy. It will be tossed in two zones

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Homewood Park’s annual Fall Festival will take place on Halloween day this year. The event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Residents will find a variety of games, concessions, attractions and candy at West Homewood Park for the event.

Fore more information, visit homewoodparks. com or for weather-related event updates follow @homewoodparks on Twitter.

149

The admission fee to the Grace House Pumpkin Sale includes a pumpkin. Photo by Madison Miller.

Witches ride through Homewood in last year’s ride on Oct. 30. Photo by Dan Starnes. would have liked, the procession has one primary aim — fun. Janie Ford Mayer has organized the ride in memory of her mom, Paula Stringfellow Ford, who planned an annual Witches of South Walton event in Florida until she passed away from lung cancer in early 2013. The event now raises money for the American Cancer Society.

S

By MADOLINE MARKHAM

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End of Ride

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This year’s Homewood Witches Ride will feature two zones where candy is thrown.

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Annual festival set for Halloween day

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“[Mom] lived to dress up and do anything fun like that,” Mayer said. “She would always want us to do something fun and keep her happy spirit going.”

The event’s $20 registration fee benefits the American Cancer Society. For more information, visit facebook.com/homewoodwitchesride.

M

Begin Candy Zone Two

Pumpkin 31 Festival to benefit home for girls Pumpkins are coming to Homewood Central Park on Saturday, Oct. 17.

The Grace House Junior Board is hosting its Pumpkin Festival from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

The $10 admission price includes a pumpkin and access to festivities. Games will include a football throw, sack races and corn hole.

Old Town Pizza, MELT, Steel City Pops and Saw’s Street Kitchen will also be onsite as well as inflatables.

Grace House Ministries is a residential group home facility in Fairfield that serves girls ages 6-21. The girls its serves have been abused or neglected and removed from harmful situations.

Funds raised at the festival help provide food, clothing, care and education for the house.

To learn more about Grace House, visit gracehouse.org. For Pumpkin Festival tickets, visit ghpumpkinfest.com.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A19

Library to host Mystery Dinner Theatre production

A previous Mystery Dinner Theatre show is held on stage at the Homewood Public Library. Photo courtesy of Homewood Public Library.

The Mystery Dinner Theatre is returning to Homewood Public Library.

South City Theatre will present The Mousetrap, a murder mystery by Agatha Christie.

The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst.

The event will feature a buffet starting at

6:30 p.m. in the Large Auditorium, and the show follows.

Tickets are $30 for the buffet and show.

Tickets must be purchased in advance, and will be available beginning Monday, Sept. 28.

Visa and MasterCard accepted. Tickets may be purchased online at homewoodpubliclibrary. org. or at the Adult Services Department.

William Smith earns Eagle rank William Eugene Smith IV earned the rank of Eagle Scout at a Board of Review on Oct. 9, 2014. Will is an active member of BSA Troop 63 of the Vulcan District, Greater Alabama Council, sponsored by Canterbury United Methodist Church. A Court of Honor was held on Feb. 15 at the Canterbury Chapel to recognize Will’s achievement.

Will earned 26 merit badges, including the 21 badges required to earn the Eagle rank. He has also earned a Bronze Palm. He held the leadership positions of scribe, chaplain’s aide, patrol leader and assistant senior patrol leader.

His peers in Troop 63 nominated him for membership in the Order of the Arrow.

Will’s Eagle Scout service project benefited Woodlawn United Methodist Church by helping to transform their Woodlawn Food Pantry into the Woodlawn Community Cooperative. His project included painting the interior walls of the building; designing and building two bookcases for a lending library; and designing and building five 10-foot benches for use in the new group meeting space.

Will is the son of Emmie and Bill Smith of Homewood and the grandson of Dody and Dixon Cunningham of Greenville, South Carolina,

William Smith

and of Becky and Bill Smith of Mountain Brook. Will and his family are members of Canterbury United Methodist Church. Will attends Homewood High School, where he runs cross-country and track and plays snare drum in the Homewood Patriot Band.

Halloween kickball tourney to benefit EPD scholarships Costumes are welcome at an upcoming Halloween kickball tournament.

The first-ever Kickball JamBOOrie will be held Saturday, Oct. 31 at West Homewood Park.

All proceeds will go to Project Homewood, an organization that provides scholarship for Homewood’s Extended Day Program. In addition to providing children with a place to stay while their parent(s) work late, EDP offers homework help, a healthy snack, and several activities such as arts and crafts, sports and reading.

The tournament will feature 12 teams of 10-15 players each. The cost to play is $300, which includes a player packet for each team member up to 15. Teams must be made up of at least 50 percent Homewood residents or Homewood staff members.

During the tournament, hourly door prizes will be awarded, but you must be present to win.

To register, visit projecthomewood.org.

Partipcation is limited to the first 12 teams to register. For more information, contact Alissa Brock at alissa.thurmond@homewoodal.org.

The Homewood Star

A20 • October 2015

Fall family fun at Hall-Kent

The Hall-Kent Fall Festival will feature a variety of inflatables and games. Photo courtesy of Suzanne Mills.

The 81st annual Hall-Kent Elementary School Fall Festival will take place Saturday, Oct. 17 from 3-7 p.m.

The Fall Festival offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities including inflatables, rides, games for younger children, a bake sale, and cake walks. There will also be a silent and live auction featuring themed baskets created by each grade level, as well as many other items from local and regional businesses. Raffle tickets for the chance to win $500 cash, an iPad mini, an XBox One and a new television will also be available.

The festival caters to all age groups and budget ranges. It is Hall-Kent’s only fundraiser for the entire school year, and proceeds go directly to the classrooms.

This year, the Fall Festival’s one-mile Fun Run will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. Organizers ask that participants pre-register for the event.

For more information on either event, contact the school at 423-2430 or check out the Hall-Kent Fall Festival Facebook page for the latest updates.

-Submitted by Suzanne Mills

Discount card benefits Junior League projects

Seibel’s staff Chapman Miller, assistant manager, and Hayley McDonald, assistant web manager. Photo courtesy of Junior League of Birmingham.

For the tenth year in a row, the Junior League of Birmingham (JLB) will hold its Shop Save & Share program from Oct. 21-Nov. 1. This fundraiser supports the League’s 34 community projects while at the same time driving customers to local retailers and restaurants.

When you purchase a Shop Save & Share card for $40, you receive a 20 percent discount on merchandise and food at the fundraiser’s more than 550 participating stores and restaurants.

Chapman Miller, Assistant Manager of Seibel’s in Homewood said Shop Save & Share falls at a fitting of year.

“We are always looking for ways to support our clients especially entering into the holiday shopping season,” said Miller. “Shop Save & Share is the perfect fit because it benefits our community and local economy.”

Other participating merchants from Homewood and the surrounding area include Three Sheets, Escape Day Spa and Neighborhood Hops & Vine.

Visit shopsaveshare.net for a complete retailer listing, to purchase a card and for more information.

-Submitted by the Junior League of Birmingham

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A21

Forum on heroin addiction a part of Red Ribbon Week

Carissa Anthony of Safe & Healthy Homewood Coalition, Paul DeMarco, and District Attorney Brandon Falls discuss an upcoming panel on heroin use. Photo courtesy of Carissa Anthony.

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Red ribbons will be placed on lampposts throughout the Homewood during the week of Oct. 26. The Safe & Healthy Homewood Coalition and Homewood City Schools campaign seeks to spread awareness about the dangers of teen drug use.

Throughout the week, Homewood High School Peer Helpers will share positive messages about making healthy choices regarding drugs and alcohol at elementary schools and Homewood Middle School, which will all hold other programs throughout the week as well.

Also as a part of Red Ribbon Week Oct. 26-30, the coalition is hosting a public forum, Pills to Needles: A Pathway to Heroin Addiction, on Oct. 29. It will run 8-9:15 a.m. at Homewood Board of Education, 450 Dale Ave. Light breakfast items will be provided for attendees.

Three panelists will talk about the link between prescription drug use and heroin addiction.

“Most of the time this type of stuff begins with people taking pain medications and progresses from there,” said Carissa Anthony of Safe & Healthy Homewood Coalition.

The panel, moderated by Paul DeMarco, will feature District Attorney Brandon Falls; Susan

Pills to Needles: A Pathway to Heroin Addiction Thursday, Oct. 29 8-9:15 a.m.

Homewood Board of Education

Brawley, who lost her son to heroin overdose; and Angela Camp of Bradford Health Services.

Camp will speak to what parents can do, how to recognize signs and symptoms, and how to get your child help. “[The program] will progress from prevention to signs and symptoms and how you can intervene appropriately,” Anthony said.

Safe & Healthy Homewood Coalition held a similar program two years ago.

“We are focusing on this because of the heroin epidemic. We don’t’ necessarily see it at the high schools, but we do know HHS students are using prescription medications at a rate higher than national average. We have to be aware of where this can lead us and come together to stop it before it begins. Nationwide, we are seeing heroin deaths outpace traffic fatalities.”

For more information on National Red Ribbon Week, visit redribbon.org.

Art festival returns to Patriot Park

Handmade art festival features the work of around 30 artists. Photo by Katie Turpen.

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Homewood’s outdoor art show is returning to Patriot Park Saturday, Oct. 24 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

For 21 years, Handmade has gathered a group of local artists to show their work. This is its third event at Patriot Park.

“The park setting allows easy access to the show with plenty of parking and a family friendly atmosphere with a play ground for the kids and plenty of room for artist tents,” Lindsey said.

Lindsey and Holley, both potters, recruit artists who create high quality works that are of course, hand made for the event. Around 30 local artists will set up to present and sell their work.

“All of the Christmas presents I buy this year will be made by a local artist.” Lindsey said.

There will be acrylic, oil, encaustic and watercolor paintings. Other offerings include

pottery, jewelry, glass work, handmade leather bags, hand poured soy candles, concrete planters, upcycled vintage aprons, hand painted gourds, scarves and more.

“So much of this art is not even available in a store and can only be purchased at the art show, so you know your getting something unique,” Holley said.

The show will also host live music by WooChega, Greg’s Hot Dog cart and Magic City Sweet Ice. For the first 15 years, the show was held in the yard of its founder Carol Richard’s home.

From there it moved to Cindy Parker’s Homewood home. Last fall Valerie Holley and Jill Lindsey worked with Caroline Hubbard of the Homewood Arts Council and the Parks and Recreation Board to move it to a more public space and make it an official Homewood event.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ HomewoodArtsCouncil.

The Homewood Star

A22 • October 2015

On order and chaos

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Kay Vinson’s art starts on the street.

In cities, she searches for graffiti, rust or glass bricks, urban decay she said “people often find unsightly,” and photographs them to later incorporate into her art.

“I like the energy of cities,” she said. “That shot of energy keeps me going for a while.”

The photos are only one element of how she seeks to balance order and chaos in her work.

First her pieces begin with random markings, such as the squiggles in the piece pictured. From there she determines where a photo fits and then a color scheme. She cuts a transparency made from a photo into a shape, often a circle, and adds acrylic paint and enamel. Sometimes when she feels like a piece needs one more element, she will add the numeral 5, the number she said she finds most appealing, to complete the spontaneous process.

The end result, she said, feels cosmic, like something you would see through a telescope or microscope. She can also see the influence of Asian cities, where she spent years traveling as an international flight attendant.

Twenty of her pieces will be on exhibit at The Joy Gallery at Homewood Cumberland Presbyterian Church starting Oct. 11.

For Vinson, the process is just as important as the product.

She has created art all of her life, but it wasn’t until she was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2001 that she “made a serious commitment to art.”

“Cancer made me aware of the fact that I am not immortal, and I wanted to leave a legacy,” she said.

Following surgery, Vinson faced an extended period of depression and anxiety where she reassessed everything in her life.

“Working on art helped me deal with my

Kay Vinson Art Exhibit The Joy Gallery Homewood Cumberland Presbyterian Church 513 Columbiana Road Oct. 11-Nov. 8 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Artist Kay Vinson holds one of her works that will be on exhibit at The Joy Gallery starting Oct. 11. Photo by Madoline Markham.

emotions,” she said. “The making of it was very, very healing.”

For instance, adding a series of dots to a work gets her very quiet, almost like a meditation.

After her cancer diagnosis, Vinson found

herself wanting to return somewhere familiar as well. The Homewood native had lived in California for 27 years following high school, where she studied art at San Jose State University, and then Memphis for five. So in 2003, she and her

husband moved back and renovated a home in English Village, adding a studio for her above the garage.

It was also at that time that she began to show her work for the first time, which made her anxious. More than a decade later, her nerves are calmer headed into this month’s show, her second at The Joy Gallery. She has now shown her work in Montreal, California, New York and all the Southern states except South Carolina.

She still, however, said she has a hard time describing her art in words.

“It’s hard for me to talk about it,” she said. “If I could say it, I wouldn’t need to paint it.”

For Vinson, her art is her expression, and her studio is its home.

“Art takes me out of myself for a while,” she said. “I forget to be terrified.”

To learn more about Vinson’s work, visit kayvinsonart.com.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A23

Campaign brings men into breast cancer awareness

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE The local chapter of the American Cancer Society is kicking off a fundraising campaign with local men leading the charge.

During the “Real Men Wear Pink” campaign, 26 select men from the Birmingham area have been nominated to serve as the “Pink Men” of Birmingham during breast cancer awareness month.

Each participant will promote breast cancer education and early detection with messaging provided by the American Cancer Society. There is also a fundraising component in which the men will compete against each other, raising as much funds as possible (a minimum of $2,500) for the American Cancer Society.

The participant who raises the most funds will be named the “Birmingham’s Pink Man of the Year.”

Several Homewood men are getting involved in the campaign: Dr. Doug Hurst knows that almost everyone has had a personal connection to someone who has had breast cancer, as it remains among the most diagnosed cancers in females.

“This provides a strong motivation to raise awareness in the community for early detection and prevention that has saved and will continue to save countless lives,” he said.

Dr. Hurst said that more research

Patrick Eades

needs to be done to better understand metastatic disease, as there is still no cure for it, and those patients have a median survival of only three years, a statistic that has not changed in the past two decades.

“I am participating in the Real Men Wear Pink campaign so that

Michael Sellers

we can raise money to help fund important research projects that will one day make a difference in the lives of patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer,” he said.

Patrick Eades works for Sage Products, which manufactures medical and hygiene products for in

local hospitals. Many of the people that use the products are victims of cancer.

He chose to participate in the Real Men Wear Pink campaign to continue to bring awareness to cancer as a whole and to prevent mothers, wives and daughters from

becoming statistics of breast cancer.

“Although I have not been touched by breast cancer, many people I know have. I feel if we all contribute to finding a cure one day there might be a way to prevent it from challenging the ones you and I love,” he said.

To help with his fundraising, Eades will be using the makingstrideswalk. org/realmenbirminghamal website to collect donations for this campaign.

Good People Brewing Company’s Michael Sellers said he was honored to be asked to participate in the Real Men Wear Pink campaign.

“This is a great cause that helps remember loved ones who have passed from the disease, while also celebrating survivors and educating both men and women about preventative care,” he said. “Helping to bring awareness and raise funds to help battle this disease will, hopefully, one day make treating and preventing it possible.”

Sellers said that breast cancer research is extremely important.

To raise funds, Good People Brewing Company will be hosting a Charity Beer of the Week Oct. 1216. For every Pale Ale bought in the taproom, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to Real Men Wear Pink.

Other Homewood participants include Brandon Wilson of Lewis & Co. and Rick Journey of Acanthus Agency.

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The Homewood Star

A24 • October 2015

Homewood grown, South American refined Jewelry designer’s skill set shaped by travels

By MADOLINE MARKHAM Kate Morris used to say that she started making jewelry at age 13, but her mom would tell people otherwise. In elementary school, she would craft American flag pins and beaded bracelets to sell at the park while her older brother, Jake Collins, now a teacher and coach at Homewood Middle School, played baseball.

As a high schooler at Homewood, Morris created pieces for herself at first, but when her parents told her she could go on a mission trip to Bolivia only if she helped raise money, she started selling them as well. Likewise, as a student at Samford University, jewelry sales continued to fund her travels in South America as she ventured to Bolivia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Peru and Columbia. While visiting these countries, she would ask jewelry makers she met on the streets about their techniques and even learned to solder (or join metals) from one of them. While in these countries, she also became acquainted with their native gems in their raw state, including one of her favorites, amazonite.

Years later, each piece in her jewelry line has a Spanish name, either from a woman’s first name or a geographical marker.

Through 2012 Morris sold her designs on

Etsy, but in 2014, after a break to finish grad school and plan her wedding, she unveiled her new name, new branding and a new look. Kate Collins designs were more earthy and organic, while Kate Morris designs are more contemporary chic, she said. She now releases a spring/ summer line in March and a fall/winter line in September. Her most recent line features 27 necklaces of varying lengths, 12 bracelets, six pairs of earrings and three body jewel designs.

Pieces run from $25 to $160.

Morris is a Spanish teacher and Pure Barre instructor, but somehow she finds about 30 hours a week to devote to her jewelry business. She crafts her designs from a room in her Edgewood house that both serves as her studio and her husband’s fishing equipment room.

Her materials are sourced from vendors throughout the country. Her agate and druzi gems come from a vendor in Tuscon, Arizona, and she often encases these and similar stones with an edge of gold, which she gets from a vendor in New York.

Morris finds inspiration in fashion magazines but also in architecture and interiors. Often she’ll walk around At Home on 18th Street to get her creative juices flowing. In addition to a bachelor’s in Spanish, Morris has a degree in interior

Kate Morris creates pieces for her jewelry line from her Homewood home. Photo by Madoline Markham.

design from Samford, after all, which she says comes in handy because she uses design software she learned in school to create her metal work.

Because Morris spends most of her time teaching, making jewelry or teaching Pure Barre, she doesn’t always wear her designs, with the exception of stud earrings. Usually, she said, she ends up selling her own pieces. It’s hard to say no when people ask to buy what she is wearing,

but when she gets requests to purchase jewelry pieces she got while traveling in South America, the answer is a resounding “no.”

Morris sells her jewelry in Shoefly in Homewood as well as a selection of other boutiques in Alabama, Mississippi and Florida and twice a month at Pepper Place Market in downtown Birmingham. To learn more or purchase Morris’ designs, visit katemorrisjewelry.com.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A25

Homewood Real Estate Listings MLS #

Zip

Address

Status

Price

728883

35209

1606 Wellington Road

New

$945,000

728856

35209

620 Edgemoor Drive

New

$469,780

728724

35209

3401 Sandner Court #B

New

$89,900

728645

35209

1040 Broadway Street #509

New

$157,900

728634

35209

416 Berry Avenue

New

$549,000

728566

35209

1627 Ashwood Ln #0

New

$153,000

728539

35209

315 Edgewood Boulevard

New

$469,780

727304

35209

1 Poinciana Drive

New

$530,000

728371

35209

1537 Valley Avenue

New

$154,500

728291

35209

308 Ridge Road

New

$599,000

728377

35209

311 Devon Drive

New

$539,900

728057

35209

125 Glenwood Drive East

New

$369,900

727989

35209

306 Edgewood Boulevard

New

$549,900

727871

35209

401 Yorkshire Drive

New

$499,000

727855

35209

2077 Lancaster Road

New

$350,000

727816

35209

235 Fairlane Drive

New

$179,900

727792

35209

1737 Wellington Road

New

$485,000

727352

35209

1730 Windsor Boulevard

New

$250,000

Real estate listings provided by the Birmingham Association of Realtors on September 14.

Visit birminghamrealtors.com.

1606 Wellington Road

311 Devon Drive

The Homewood Star

A26 • October 2015

Children’s Tumor Foundation NF Walk Sunday, Oct. 18 1 p.m.

Veterans Park, Hoover $20 adults, $10 ages 4-12 Register at ctf.org Andrew Droste, front, and his family will participate in the NF Walk this month as Team Shamrock. Pictured are Andrew’s sisters Emma and Isabelle Droste and his parents Ashley and Donald Henson. Photo by Ron Burkett.

NF

CONTINUED from page A1 and others like Andrew have skin pigmentation and/or learning difficulties. Most people develop symptoms before age 10, but often they appear or worsen during puberty.

With the diagnosis, Andrew was able to get the help he needed as he entered sixth grade at Homewood Middle School.

HMS special education teacher Andrea McCormack sat down and came up with the tools he needed to be successful.

Andrew cannot physically write, but with a computer he can type everything he needs to. He can’t comprehend what he reads without audio assistance, but a computer program called SOLO reads his textbooks, papers and books aloud for

him. When he was assigned a book that wasn’t available in audio, his older sister Emma read it aloud and recorded it for him on an iPhone. He made a 98 on the project on it afterward.

“He does not forget anything he hears,” Henson said.

For the first time, Andrew made the A-B honor roll that year.

“It’s not that he is not intelligent, his brain just does not take in information in a traditional way,” Henson said.

Homewood Middle School was “incredible” in its full support, she said.

Now a seventh-grader, Andrew stays busy with show choir, playing drums in the band, baseball, and singing in the choir and playing hand bells at Trinity UMC. Henson said his self-esteem is high despite the challenges he has faced.

“He is his own advocate with education,”

Henson said. “When he needs help, he tells the teacher. When he is distracted taking a test, he asks to leave the room. He doesn’t see it as a disability. He sees it as ‘my brain is wired a different way.’”

After his diagnosis, Andrew and his family met other local families with NF diagnoses through the Children’s Tumor Foundation.

Together, they will walk at Veterans Park this month to raise funds and awareness for NF and its research. There is currently no cure or treatment for NF1 that can reverse or prevent complications, so medical management focuses on early detection of treatable complications.

Andrew’s family has also learned more about how it affects people differently. The disorder is genetic, so most people inherit it from a parent.

But Andrew’s was caused by a spontaneous mutation that only affected part of his cells, not

all, like most who have NF. “I know I’m not as bad as other people, but I want to raise awareness so they can find a cure,” Andrew tells his mom.

Henson counts everything about Andrew as a gift — his upbeat personality, his diagnosis, how he can now excel at school. They now live a few miles from the leading NF doctors at UAB, just as they were close to the best hospital when a heart-lung bypass machine kept him alive for 10 days after he was born. The Hensons still don’t know if the two medical issues are related.

“If we had not been in Delaware at that time, my son could have died,” Henson said. “Jefferson Hospital [nearby] was the leading hospital for ECMO machines, and now here we are in Birmingham with the leading NF experts at UAB. God puts us in the right place at the right time… I knew God had bigger plans for him.”

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • A27

If the merger is finalized, both congregations would attend worship services at Trinity UMC, where Brian Erickson and Jack Hinnen are pictured, while the Oakmont building is being renovated this winter. Photo by Frank Couch.

MERGER

CONTINUED from page A1 “We knew we needed do something drastic,” Hinnen said. “For Oakmont this is a very audacious attempt to do this in a new way.

Truthfully, this is the biggest ask I have ever proposed to a church I have served. It’s asking people to give up a measure of control so they cannot just survive, but thrive.”

At the same time, Hinnen said Oakmont, which was started 60 years ago by a Birmingham-Southern College student, is still alive “because of community members who have said they are not going to give up.”

Trinity sees itself at a crossroads just as Oakmont does.

In its 120 years, Trinity has grown from a church serving Edgewood to having members who live as far as Chelsea or north of Gardendale. It’s what Erickson calls a “metro church… with its heart here in Homewood.”

The church has recently reached its capacity for parking at its services and is close to capacity for seating inside.

“The question became do we want to squeeze more out of our space we have here, or do we want to think of ourselves as more of a mission than an institution?” Erickson said. “…We looked for ways to express ministry to reach people we can’t reach at 1400 Oxmoor Road.”

Looking at numbers, Trinity has about 3,500 members and 1,500 average attendance on Sundays, whereas Oakmont has about 200 members and 100 in attendance. At Trinity, the average age is about 36; at Oakmont it’s around 60.

Oakmont’s story is one of many churches.

Locally, 96 of the 144 churches in the United Methodist Church’s two Birmingham districts have reached a plateau or declined. Every year, six or seven churches in the UMC’s North Alabama Conference close. National statistics show that many churches are declining as well, but churches that are merging and working together or creating satellite campuses are growing at 85 percent success rate.

“There seems to be the wave of renewal in the American church doing things together rather than separately,” Erickson said.

If the merger is finalized, Oakmont UMC will continue to hold its services through around November. At that point the building will close for renovations as a team made of members of both congregations begins to plan for the future. In January 2016, church would begin happening at the Oakmont building again.

“Our goal is that something brand new would happen, and people in that community would see something that was happening,” Erickson said. “It would be something radically new and different. Trinity is not the church for everybody, and so I get excited about Trinity helping rebirth a church that doesn’t look exactly like us.”

Erickson said they would also think about ministries they could start at the new Oakmont campus that wouldn’t necessarily work at either campus now.

Trinity’s church council has already voted unanimously in favor of the merger, and Oakmont’s council was scheduled to vote on Sept.

20. A simple majority is required by the Methodist church, but a 2/3 majority is required by Alabama corporate merger laws, which also must be followed. Following the votes, legal documents must be filed to finalize the change.

But Erickson believes that the merger would happen “spiritually in that moment” of the Oakmont vote.

While the Oakmont building is closed for renovations, its current congregation would be encouraged to attend services at Trinity’s Edgewood campus.

Erickson said several Trinity members have already approached him about ways to be hospitable to Oakmont members during that time, suggesting reserving a row of parking spots for them on Sunday morning and creating a Christmas ornament with Oakmont’s name on it.

Erickson believes that in some ways both churches would change and a new church would emerge. At the same time, both pastors said the unification would help strengthen the Oakmont campus.

“This is Oakmont’s 60th year, and this whole merger is an attempt at making sure Oakmont is around another 60 years,” Hinnen said. “In a lot of ways the formality of it can sound kind of scary, but in truth we are all on the same team, so I feel like this is going to produce healthier results than if we were trying to operate separately.”

Erickson thinks the change is “a tremendously bold thing” for Oakmont to consider.

“They will go down as just as brave as the people who started the church,” he said.

“They would be willing to say, ‘I am willing to change and let go of the reins of this if it reaches someone new.’ If every church thought like that, the American church wouldn’t be in decline… In some ways it would mean letting a chapter of Oakmont dissolve, and in some ways resurrection of what it’s always been about.”

A PUBLIC NOTICE FROM ALABAMA POWER

TREE CREWS WORKING IN HOMEWOOD THROUGH EARLY 2016 Alabama Power crews are working in several Homewood neighborhoods, removing trees and other vegetation that threaten the safety and reliability of our electrical system.

As part of this process, Alabama Power goes to great lengths to talk with individual property owners. Company representatives are going door to door, leaving notices at locations where work is needed.

If you have any questions before crews come by your home, please call Alabama Power at 205-257-2155 and ask for someone in the Vegetation Management Group to contact you. Or you can email us at apcvm@southernco.com. Work in Homewood and nearby areas is expected to continue through early 2016.

Also, you can go online to alpwr.co/vm for more information about these safety and reliability measures, as well as resources for property owners who would like recommendations about planting the right tree in the right place.

Thank you for your understanding. We appreciate your business.

Vegetation Management Group 205-257-2155 | apcvm@southernco.com

Š 2015 Alabama Power Company.

APSA-1008.REV1.pdf 1

8/19/15 1:49 PM

SECTION The Homewood Star

OCTOBER 2015

Schoolhouse B2 Sports B5 Home Guide B9 Calendar B21

Chesnutt returns to the court

By DAVID KNOX As it turns out, Carol Chesnutt didn’t retire. She just called time out.

The veteran volleyball coach stepped down as Homewood High’s girls coach after the 2010 season following a great run there, including a Class 5A finals appearance in 2005 and a Class 6A Elite Eight berth in 2009 when 6A was the highest classification.

She stayed at the school as academic monitor, but when she was asked to come back and coach the Lady Patriots for this season, it wasn’t a hard decision.

“They asked me if I would consider coming back,” said Chesnutt, who’s now in her 34th year of coaching. “I’d had a four-year respite. And I did miss it. I missed working with the players, the dayto-day connection with the student-athletes.

“It’s been fun. I still have the energy, and the kids keep you young.”

Chesnutt has a good group of young ladies to work with. She has six seniors, two juniors and five sophomores on the varsity. “The six seniors are giving us good leadership, and I think we have a mix of skill and talent throughout the classes.

“They’re working hard,” Chesnutt said. “We’re still learning each other. They’ve responded well.”

The seniors include libero Virginia Estes, who Chesnutt said has been a four-year varsity member and is a team leader. Left hitter Rachel Donaldson, left hitter Brittney Sims who also plays defense, outside hitter Alexis Broach, left hitter Elizabeth Riley and middle hitter Deja Hester-Taylor are the other seniors. Hester-Taylor has a chance to have an excellent senior season. She’s a strong attacker, quick, and plays with a lot of energy, Chesnutt said.

Homewood coach Carol Chesnutt discusses strategy with her team. Photo by Ron Burkett.

Juniors are Josephine Graf and Venice Sanders.

Sanders, Chesnutt said, is “becoming a real force.

She is becoming a strong hitter and blocker.”

Sophomore setters Mary Frances Gaston and Ellie Burkhalter are being counted on heavily to get the ball to the hitters. Other sophomores are middle hitter Ajah Wayne, left hitter Lia Roberson and right hitter Sydney Gurram, the tallest player on the team at 6-3.

Chesnutt will build her team the way she always

has — on fundamentals and defense. Defense and fundamentals got the Lady Patriots to the Elite Eight, and Chesnutt firmly believes that is the key to winning this time around.

“I’m definitely a fundamentals coach,” she said.

“Good ball control. Serve and serve return is the key to any successful offense. I was telling the girls that you can have great hitters, but they can’t touch the ball if you can’t serve and receive serves and pass the ball.

“And all my teams have had tough defenses.”

And all of her successful teams have been mentally tough, too.

“You’re going to be stressed mentally and physically and emotionally. You have to learn to deal with that, whether it’s on the court or in school.

Time management is important, balancing school with athletics, nutrition, getting enough sleep. We try to address the whole athlete, develop every aspect. I think that’s been a key to our success in the past.”

Chesnutt said she’s a “real fan of the multisport athlete.” Several on her team play more than one sport.

“I think for one thing it prevents repetitive injuries you get when you play one sport year round.

It gives you a mental break from that sport. You’re only a high school athlete once — if you’re good enough to play more than one sport, go for it.”

Others participate in different extracurricular activities — band, choir, community involvement or church, which she also thinks is a good thing.

They certainly learn time management that way as well. “And when they come to practice, they work hard.”

The key to this season, as it is in most volleyball seasons, is to be peaking at area tournament time.

The rest is really prologue.

Homewood’s area includes Woodlawn and Briarwood Christian. Area play began with a win over Woodlawn. The regular season concludes at home on Oct. 15 against Shades Valley.

The area winner hosts the area tournament.

“We want to take care of our home court and our area opponents in the regular season so we can get a good seed in the area tournament,” Chesnutt said.

The Homewood Star

B2 • October 2015

School House Heritage Panel fosters more inclusive school culture

Students receive Shades Valley scholarships

Several Homewood High School won Rotary Club of Shades Valley Educational Foundation scholarship. Pictured are Jennifer Okunbor, Elizabeth Smith, Leeann Huynh, Kimberly Ann Wise, Marcus Williams, Lucy Hart, Amani Moore, Jessica Tolbert, Katherine McGaughey and John Ruppert. Grace Davis is not pictured.

Cleveland, Kiser serve as sous chefs at nutrition workshop The 2015 HMS Heritage Panel

Twenty-five Homewood Middle School students will be named to this year’s Heritage Panel. The organization empowers a group of student leaders to make their school a more inclusive and welcoming place by creating a climate that discourages bullying and harassing behavior.

This year-long program begins by training a diverse group of students and faculty advisors in an intensive two-day workshop. During the training, participants are asked to look within themselves and their school

community and to make personal commitments to improve relations at school.

Students prepare to sit on a panel and discuss issues that are relevant to their school experience and often include cliques, race, gender, cultural backgrounds and exclusion. The panelists present to various classrooms, and the audience is invited to participate in a discussion of issues relating to the presentation.

The Heritage Panel is a program of the National Conference for Community and Justice.

Homewood City Schools hosted the Over The Mountain Child Nutrition Program Summer Workshop this summer. The program allowed Homewood and Mountain Brook CNP workers to come together and learn new cooking techniques and new recipes for fresh produce.

Guest celebrities were invited to

help during the workshop. Homewood City Schools’ Superintendent Dr. Bill Cleveland and Homewood Middle School Assistant Principle Matt Kiser participated as sous chefs to the key speaker Chef Donnell Johnson. They were able to learn how to incorporate fresh veggies into new recipes.

Superintendent Dr. Bill Cleveland and Homewood Middle School Assistant Principle Matt Kisers were sous chefs to Chef Donnell Johnson.

TheHomewoodStar.com

Shades Cahaba Elementary receives healthy school grant

®ROBERTOCOIN

October 2015 • B3

Shades Cahaba Elementary School received a grant toward as part of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Be Healthy School grant program. Photo by Erica Techo.

By ERICA TECHO Shades Cahaba Elementary received a $9,350 grant for its healthy habits.

The grant was presented to the school on Sept. 3. It is part of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama’s Be Healthy School grant program to address childhood obesity. Shades Cahaba Elementary is one of 28 schools in Alabama to receive a grant.

Principal John Lowry introduced the grant to a group of third-grade students in P.E., thanking coach Genie Christian for her work applying for the grant.

“This is an opportunity for us to be healthier and be the best Shades Cahaba kids we can be,” Lowry said.

Jeff Adams, community relations manager for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama,

thanked Shades Cahaba for its efforts to becoming a healthier school.

“Last year I had the privilege of receiving an application for a grant from your coach,” Adams said.

State Rep. David Faulkner also congratulated the school and students, reminding them to stay active and healthy.

“I’m hoping to see you in Montgomery next year,” Faulkner said, noting the annual trip fourth graders take to the capital. “That’s one of my favorite things.”

Lowry said the grant money will go toward the school’s Healthy Eating, Active Living program. It will fund projects such as the tower garden, which provides fresh produce at the school as well as Fitbit step counters and heart rate monitors to help track physical activity.

Following the Gingerbread Man

Stephanie Brant’s kindergarten class searched for the Gingerbread Man in the main office of the school. During the activity, they were able to meet the principal, office staff, nurse and counselor.

Hall-Kent Elementary School kindergarten stu­dents spent their first day of school searching for the Gingerbread Man. The Gingerbread Man, who escaped from the

book the teachers read to the stu­dents, left clues around the school for the classes to find. On the journey, the students were able to learn more about the school and their teachers.

Back to school lunch time The lunchroom was filled with fun and laughter on the first day of school at Shades Cahaba Elementary as students were excited to be with their classmates and teachers again after the summer break.

Shades Cahaba Principal Dr. John Lowry spent lunch with students. Here he talks with Adam Essalah about his first day of school.

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The Homewood Star

B4 • October 2015

Tucker Wilson scores a 36 on ACT

Tucker Wilson

By MADOLINE MARKHAM A Homewood High School senior has score a perfect 36 on the ACT. Tucker Wilson completed the college entrance exam for the first time in April along with the rest of his junior class at HHS “I knew I did well and felt confident about it,” he said. “But I got really excited [when I got the score].”

On average, less than one-tenth of 1 percent of students who take the national exam earn this composite score. In the class of 2014, only 1,407 students out of 1.85 million earned a 36.

The ACT consists of an English, math, reading and science section, each scored on a scale of 1-36, which are averaged to determine the composite. Tucker made 35s in science and reading and 36s in math and English.

Tuckers plans to study chemical or computer engineering in college and is applying to Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech, the University of Virginia and Auburn.

At Homewood, he is woodwind captain of the Patriot Marching Band and plays first chair alto saxophone. He also serves as a Patriot Pride ambassador, on the Bell Center Youth Alliance and member of the cross-country team.

In the academic realm, Tucker has been named an AP Scholar with Distinction; he has made a top score of 5 on all five AP exams he took as a sophomore and junior.

Tucker said he stays busy with band, athletics and academics, but that’s the way he likes it.

“That’s what I love about Homewood,” he said. “It’s the only place where I think I can do it all.”

Tucker is the son of Joe and Melissa Wilson.

Creating Lego mini me’s Edgewood Elementary School fourth-graders are learning about themselves through Lego self-portraits.

Art teacher Celia Castle likes to start off the school year with the students drawing a self-portrait of themselves, but she wanted to be more creative than just asking the students to do a normal portrait.

Since Legos are popular and trendy, she had the students decorate three different Lego figures as themselves and portray the super hero trait that they have.

The students discussed their figures with Castle, and together they pick the one that represents them the best. While decorating their Lego selves, the students learned about themselves and their classmates.

Edgewood students in Towns Carlson’s class made Lego selfportraits during art class.

Color-coded learning

Kindergarten students in Doris Sankey’s class learned about the color red during their color study. Staff members throughout the school wore red the same day to help the students learn more about the shades of red.

Kindergarten students are learning about their colors, and the rest of Edgewood Elementary School is helping out.

Each day staff members and

students throughout the school are following a color calendar so they can all dress in the same color to help the kindergarten students learn their colors.

After their two-week study on colors, the students will show all that they have learned by having a rainbow color celebration with multicolored food skewers.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • B5

Sports Lady Patriots open area play with win, eye Blaylock tournament

By DAVID KNOX The Homewood Lady Patriots volleyball team under Carol Chesnutt opened area play Sept. 15 with a win at Woodlawn.

The Lady Pats won easily over the Lady Colonels 25-10, 25-19, 25-14.

“We’ve been on the road and lost some hard-fought matches the past two weeks,” Chesnutt said. “The only match we really didn’t play competitively was final set of [a loss at 7A] Spain Park.”

She said the team is still striving consistency and high level of execution.

Sophomore Ellie Burkhalter has led the team in assists while sophomore Ajah

Wayne has been the leader in blocks.

Junior Venice Sanders and senior Deja Hester-Taylor have been leaders in kills.

The Lady Patriots (4-9, 1-0 Class 6A, Area 9) were set to play another area match against Briarwood Christian at home Sept. 22 before hosting the prestigious Margaret Blaylock Invitational Oct. 9-10. Twenty teams will participate in the annual tournament at Homewood: local powers Mountain Brook, Hoover, Pelham, John Carroll, Vestavia Hills, Hewitt-Trussville and Ramsay and many of the top teams around the state: McGillToolen, Grissom, Bob Jones, Huntsville, Walker, Austin, Oxford, Southside-Gadsden, Tuscaloosa County, St. Paul’s,

Pleasant Valley and Sparkman.

The tournament raises awareness of breast cancer with a portion of the proceeds going to breast cancer research.

Teams will dress in pink and fans are encouraged to do so as well.

The area tournament will be held at the area champion’s gym Oct. 20. The regionals are Oct. 22-24. The state championships will be held Oct. 28-29 at Birmingham CrossPlex.

Virginia Estes (18) returns a hit back over her head for Homewood. Photo by Ron Burkett.

1995 state championship team recognized at football game Members of the 1995 Homewood High state championship football team reunited at the Vestavia Hills-Homewood game on Aug. 28. The championship was the first of coach Bob Newton’s five titles at Homewood. The Patriots beat Blount in the Class 5A championship game at Waldrop Stadium that year. The team members were recognized at halftime and also participated in other events during the weekend. Photo by Dan Starnes.

The Homewood Star

B6 • October 2015

Homewood Patriot football recaps

By DAVID KNOX

Game 1, 8/21 HOMEWOOD 28, DECATUR 15

Homewood sophomore safety CarDamien Daniels, in his first varsity start, picked off a Decatur pass and returning it for a touchdown to help the Class 6A ninth-ranked Patriots to a season-opening win on Bob Newton Field at Waldrop Stadium.

The non-region game wasn’t as close as the score sounded. The Patriots led 14-0 after Daniels’ pick-six, and 21-6 at half.

Two fumbles and two interceptions give Ben Berguson’s Patriots something to work on before Vestavia Hills visits next Friday.

“I thought we made way too many mistakes tonight,” Berguson said. “Way too many mental mistakes. Four turnovers. But here’s the deal: You always make your biggest strides between Week 1 and Week 2 of the season, and we’re going to do that.”

Patriots quarterback Carson Griffis hooked up with Ronald Claiborne for a 47-yard touchdown pass. Derrick Underwood took a kickoff back 90 yards to set up an 8-yard TD pass from Griffis to Alec Marsch.

Besides the long kick return, Underwood racked up 130 yards rushing on 28 carries and added 35 yards receiving on three catches.

He especially was dominant on the ground in the second half when the Patriots sped up the tempo on their first two possessions. The first drive resulted in another turnover but Underwood cashed the second drive in with a 2-yard run and a 28-6 lead with 4:10 left in the third.

Defensive end Griffin Gentry had at least one sack and a couple of other tackles for losses as he spent the night in the Red Raiders’ backfield.

Griffis finished 14-for-23 passing for 124 yards with two TDs and two interceptions.

Alec Marsch takes off for a touchdown against Pelham. Photo by Dan Starnes.

TyShawn Bucker reaches the ball over the goal line after catching a pass from Ty Hatcher in the Patriots’ win over Pelham. Photos by Scott Butler.

Game 2, 8/28 VESTAVIA HILLS 41, HOMEWOOD 7

Homewood (1-1) lost its ninth straight in the series between the two old rivals.

“We just got whipped on both sides of the ball,” Patriots coach Ben Berguson said.

It was 21-0 after a quarter and 28-0 at the half.

The Rebels (1-0) scored on their first three

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Referred for a reason.

possessions. On the second snap from scrimmage, Brett Jones found Nolan Turner open deep for a 63-yard score. Curry Howard’s extra point was good and the Rebels led 7-0 with just 55 seconds elapsed.

“That play kind of took the wind out of our sails,” Berguson said.

Walker Minor rushed for three Vestavia touchdowns and William Schaffeld added two rushing scores.

With the final note of the host Homewood

band still hanging in the air, a fierce thunderstorm with lightning all but completed the damper on the home crowd. A mandated lightning delay lasted until 9:40 p.m. and sent many of the fans home.

The Patriots faithful saw a brief glimmer of light when Antarios Mitchell picked up a Rebel fumble and rambled in for a score with 10:20 left in the third quarter. But that was the only score the home team could manage.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • B7

Miguel Molina tackles a Pelham player in the Patriots’ win over the Panthers.

Game 3, 9/4 HOMEWOOD 54, PELHAM 20

Carson Griffis tossed four touchdown passes, Derrick Underwood rushed for over 100 yards in the first half alone and the Homewood defense picked up some opportunistic turnovers as the Patriots pummeled Pelham at Waldrop Stadium.

The Patriots (2-1, 1-0 Class 6A, Region 5) charged out to a 21-0 first-quarter lead and were never challenged.

Patriots coach Ben Berguson had been anxious to see how his team would respond to the 41-7 loss to Vestavia Hills.

“We got back to playing Homewood football tonight,” Berguson said. “I thought Carson did a great job leading this football team tonight, throwing four touchdown passes. You know, I just thought it was a great team effort.”

Griffis was 14-of-23 passing for 251 yards and four touchdowns. Underwood rushed 16

times for 130 yards and a pair of touchdowns and racked up 187 all-purpose yards.

Alec Marsch hauled in two of Griffis’ TD passes, ending the night with four catches for 117 yards.

Underwood had a dazzling 62-yard burst for a touchdown and added a 6-yard TD run.

Game 4, 9/11

HOMEWOOD 27, BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN 0

Homewood’s offense spit and sputtered, a bit like the rain in North Shelby County.

But that was of no real consequence, as the Patriots defense shined in a dominance of Briarwood Christian at Lions Pride Stadium.

Antarius Mitchell returned a fumble for a score, Nick Dutton’s interception set up another score and the Patriots didn’t allow the Lions a sniff of the red zone as ninth-ranked Homewood (3-1) improved to 2-0 in Class 6A, Region 5.

Ronald Claiborne takes off after catching a pass from Carson Griffis to score a touchdown in the season-opening win over Decatur at Waldrop Stadium.

Briarwood dropped to 0-3, 0-2.

Defensive coordinator Freddy Lawrence was pleased with his charges’ efforts.

“Played hard all night, played their hearts out,” Lawrence said. “All 11 went to the ball, made some big plays, big sacks. Played well as a group.”

The defense also provided great field position.

The first Patriots score came after pinning Briarwood deep in its own territory. Homewood set up shop after the Lions’ punt at the Lions 49. It took eight plays — including some nice runs by newcomer Chestin Smith — to cash it in. After Smith converted a fourth-and-1 with a 6-yard gain out of the wildcat, Derrick Underwood smashed in from 16 yards out. Roger Castro’s point-after made it 7-0 with 31.3 seconds left in the opening quarter.

The Patriots held again and drove it back down the field, but this time Underwood was stopped on a fourth-and-1 at the Lions’ 5.

But the defense picked up the offense again seconds later when the ball popped free and

Mitchell grabbed it up at the 25 and scooted into the end zone. The PAT failed, and Homewood led 13-0 at the half.

In the third quarter, a promising drive by the Patriots ended in a fumble. But the defense stepped up again.

Lions quarterback William Gray was hit as he threw the ball and Dutton gathered it in.

“I thought I was going to drop it,” Dutton said.

“I fumbled it for a few seconds. But overall, we played great tonight, we had great effort, I’m just proud of my teammates.”

The pick by the senior linebacker with 1:12 left in the third quarter led to a drive for the Patriots’ third score. After a pass interference call, quarterback Carson Griffis hooked with Alec Marsch for a 17-yard gain. Griffis kept it off the left side for the final yard. Castro’s kick made it 20-0 with 9:20 left.

The Patriots’ defense stopped the Lions again, and Homewood put the nail in the coffin with a short drive, with Underwood darting 16 yards for his second score of the night.

The Homewood Star

B8 • October 2015

HOMEWOOD PARKS & RECREATION Homewood Community Center

Zumba with Camille

Tango Argentino

ZUMBA is Latin inspired aerobic dance and every class feels like a party. ZUMBA is for all ages, and both sexes!

Tuesday & Thursday: 5:30pm-6:30pm Saturday: 9:00am-10:00am Camille 256-452-2500 • camillescruggs@gmail.com

Introductory lessons and guided practice.

New students are taught basic Tango technique and experienced “milongueros” are encouraged to practice and exchange tips to improve their dancing. Couples and individuals of all ages are welcome. HWCC Fitness Studio 2.

1st & 3rd Wednesday each Month 7:00pm-8:30pm

Young Rembrandts Young Rembrandts drawing classes, uses step-bystep curriculum to teach fundamental art skills in a nurturing environment that gives children an academic advantage. Classes for boys and girls 5 to 12 years of age. Summer Camps available in June & July.

Contact Chris Roberson at (205) 943-1923 for more information and to register or visit www.youngrembrandts.com to enroll anytime.

North Star Martial Arts North Star Martial Arts primary focus is to make a life lasting impact on our students, and their families. Classes range from beginners to adults.

For detailed class listings and times please visit the park’s website or www.northstarkarate.com.

205-966-4244 • masterjoe@northstarkarate.com

Belly Dancing with Aziza Class Fee: $60 cash only Contact Aziza: 205-879-0701 azizaofbirmingham@att.net www.azizaofbirmingham.com Learn the ancient art of Middle Eastern belly dance with Aziza, over 40 years of experience in performance and instruction.

Each session is 5-weeks long on: Monday: Beginners, Tuesday: Intermediates & Thursday: Advanced.

YoLIMBER Vinyasa yoga classes in an energetic environment using upbeat music. All levels welcome.

Friday 9:30am-10:30am Saturday 9:00am-10:00am Contact Marla: 205-223-8564 mac@yolimber.com

Royce Head Personal Training Affordable small group training sessions are available to members in the community center weight room. Each 30 min workout is fast, fun, safe, and effective and each person is started with a program to fit their fitness level. $25 Per Session (or) 12 Sessions for $250 Call Royce for more information: (205) 945-1665

Children’s Ballet with Claire Goodhew Beginning ballet moves taught as a foundation for many types of dance. Students will work on coordination, balance, rhythm and flexibility while developing listening skills and strengthening muscles.

Mondays 4:00pm-4:45pm For additional Information call Claire: (205) 879-8780

@homewoodparks

360 Personal Trainer Fitness Bootcamp Bootcamp style fitness classes at Homewood Community Center.

Classes Meet: Mon/Wed/ Fri 5:30am-6:30am Michael Brooks – michaelbrooks360@gmail.com

Homewood FIT Women’s Bootcamp Join this all women’s bootcamp happening right here in Homewood.

Monday & Wednesday – 5:45am-6:45am www.homewoodfit.com

Homewood Senior Center Seated Exercise Class – Mon (11:15am) / Wed & Fri (10:30am) 45-60 min. Gentle joint movement as warm-up; stretching & strength portions are led with an emphasis on proper breathing; includes 10 min of standing exercises designed to practice balance/weight shifting.

Line Dancing “Smart Moves” – Tue & Fri (9:30am) Beginner to Intermediate movement sequences are taught for each song, a sequence is repeated multiple times but facing a different direction with each repetition. Styles of music vary. Not only exercises the body but also the mind, as participants must recall the sequence and repeat it.

Zumba Gold & Tai Chi Review – Tue (2:15 & 3:00pm) Zumba Gold is designed at a slightly slower pace with easier directional transitions. Fun, lively music is used and several movements are repeated throughout a song to allow participants ample practice of each move. Review and practice of the Thursday Tai Chi class is completed the last 15mins of class.

Adaptive Yoga & Gentle Yoga – Wed (1:15 - Adaptive & 1:45pm - Gentle) Half hour of gentle guided stretching and breathing, using a chair. Appropriate for persons who wish to avoid exercise on the floor. Participants have the option to continue for the 2nd half hour with gentle guided stretching and breathing on floor mats.

Acting Out Academy

Tai Chi – Thursday (2:00pm) Very slow movement sequences repeated multiple times. Weight shifting and directional changes are executed through slow transition. Gentle on the joints and safer than dance for persons with equilibrium challenges. Not only exercises the body but also the mind, as participants must recall the sequence and repeat it.

Acting Out Academy is a kid’s performing arts classes at the Homewood Community Center Thursday 3:30pm-4:30pm (Encore: After School Program) Thursday 4:30pm-5:30pm (Advanced on-camera). www.actingoutacademy.com • 205-440-2699 meg@actingoutacademy.com

Personal Training at HWD Sr. Center – members only.

Kathy focuses on orthopedic issues and restorative training to improve fitness for mature adults, including those with equilibrium, flexibility, strength or other chronic health challenges. Sessions are $35/hour, Contact Kathy at 422-4025 (or) krhagood@yahoo.com

Blue Line Combatives Wednesday’s 7:00pm – 8:30pm Blue Line Combatives teaches self-defense and urban survival instruction. Classes and private training are available for all ages.

Call or email for additional information: Instructor Jon P. Newland jon.newland442@gmail.com • 205-296-1250

Cheerleading & Tumbling Classes Steel City Cheer classes cover all cheerleading & tumbling necessities: motions, jumps, cheers, stretching, conditioning, and tumbling. All ages & skill levels welcome.

Monday & Tuesday 5:30pm-6:30pm Contact DeeDee: PDEveritt@gmail.com • 901-734-0277

Mommy and Me Stroller Bootcamp Tuesday & Thursday @ 9:00am Location: Homewood Central Park A class for moms of all fitness levels! This 45 minute class focuses on interval training with the use of bands, body weight, and your child’s stroller! www.mommyandmetime.com

35209 Dance Line dance for a healthier you!

Tuesday 7:00pm-9:00pm • Sunday 3:00pm-5:00pm $7/Drop-in - $5/Seniors 65+ - First class is free Rosa Fisher 205-910-8896 • rosafisher@yahoo.com

Athletics Homewood Youth Basketball League Registration Dates: October 1st – 16th Boys & Girls Ages: Kindergarten – 7th Grade Go to www.homewoodparks.com for more information and to register.

Homewood Youth Wrestling Registration Dates: October 1st – 20th Ages: Kindergarten – 6th Grade Go to www.homewoodparks.com for more information and to register.

Special Events Homewood Parks Fall Festival Saturday, October 31, 2015 10:00am – 2:00pm West Homewood Park Event provides a variety of games, goodies, rides, attractions and candy!

Unlimited Attraction Wristband $5.00 per individual For more information contact David Primus at 332-6182 (or) david.primus@homewoodal.org

www.Homewoodparks.com

TheHomewoodStar.com

Home Repair Gardenin g

Fall

Landscape Architecture

O

Home Guide Special Advertising Section

ctober is the time to take on a project or two. Whether you are looking to redesign a room, revamp your summer garden or prepare your home for winter, we’ve got you covered. Browse through our fall home guide for advice, tips and resources for every aspect of home improvement.

Home Cleaning

Waste Removal

Chimney Se

Interior Design

INDEX

P lumbing

October 2015 • B9

Landscaping

Batts’ Chimney........B15 Ben Franklin.............B16 Christopher Glenn...B18 Classic Gardens.......B19 Construx...................B15

rvices

Home Furnishing

FBC Mortgage..........B10 Homewood Ant.......B20 Mantooth Int............B19 Nix Design Build......B17 Phoenix Builders....B20

Plumcore....................B11 Sweet Peas...............B14 Urban Home............ B12 Willow Homes..........B18

Fall

B10 • October 2015

Home Guide

Special Advertising Section

What to know about buying a home

A home purchase may be the largest financial transaction in your life, so it’s important to make the right decisions and to keep an eye on the details. Meg Davies, a mortgage loan originator with FBC Mortgage, offers a diverse group of funding sources to custom tailor mortgage solutions that best fit clients’ needs and financial objectives. She specializes in FHA, Conventional, VA, Bond, Jumbo and Construction Perm loans.

Davies shared some financing tips for people looking to purchase a home.

• The most important thing a home buyer can do is contact a mortgage lender three to six months before they plan to purchase a new home. This will help them prepare and make their process much easier.

• Make sure you are pre-approved as early as

possible. This will put the power of financing behind you so you can concentrate on selecting your home.

• Keep the process moving by providing documentation and decisions as soon as reasonably possible. By doing so, many of the details are taken care of early in the process so you can comfortably concentrate on any last-minute details or events that require your attention.

• Count on your mortgage lender and loan officer to keep you informed of your loan status throughout the process and to get the appropriate loan at the best rates and fees.

They will also keep your real estate agent informed of loan progress.

For more information, call 277-3100.

Home Loans

Simplified Different Solutions to Fit Your Home Loan Needs

Meg Davies

The Homewood Star

What to know about selling a house

Hollywood resident Nicole Brannon with ARC Realty said that now is a great time to sell in Homewood. To explain more about that and give tips on selling a home, she has answered some questions.

What makes Homewood a sellers’ market right now?

Since January 2015, Homewood has an average number of days on the market for sold homes of 64 days. That means homes generally go under contract within 19-34 days on market. The average sales price in Homewood is $325,137 year to date. There has been a total of $110,221,623 volume in sales year to date.

What kinds of updates or improvements should people make before selling?

Each house tells a story, so it depends on the home. In certain situations, the client and myself will discuss things to do before selling, be it staging, home maintenance, painting or another task.

What should people know before selling?

Families most often want to sell their home in the quickest period of time and for the most money. We strategically map a plan to make this happen. Understanding what a buyer wants in a home is key. For example, buyers often want a house that is move-in ready.

Buyers choose a house based on location, style and price.

What do you do to help out with the process of selling a home?

Communication is a must—communicating with the market via Internet presence, marketing to other agents, pricing a home accordingly, ensuring the home is market ready and communicating with the homeowner(s). Internet presence is key, as well as understanding the market and knowing other homes that buyers would compare.

For more information, call 969-8910.

“In today’s challenging real estate market, it is critical to work with a real estate professional who understands our neighborhood.”

Nicole Brannon

Your Community Realtor

Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS # 994024

205.283.3598 NMLS # 152859

MDavies@FBChomeloans.com www.MegDavies.net

205.249.0057 Nicole@NicoleBrannon.com www.NicoleBrannon.com

TheHomewoodStar.com

Fall

Home Guide

October 2015 • B11

Special Advertising Section

A new solution to a timeless problem PLUMCORE Inc. is a full-service plumbing and utility company with a specialty in lining/ rehabilitating piping for all applications. We were incorporated in 1977, started in residential development, and progressed from there to commercial and industrial works over the last 38 years. We have never lost sight of the fact that customer satisfaction is our main service that we provide because at the end of the day our business is our customers. Whether we provide a service for a company or an individual, our main goal is to provide our clients with the best finished product and overall experience in our market. This philosophy has taken our company to where it is today. PLUMCORE Inc. is bonded, insured, and has an unlimited bidding status license with the state of Alabama and surrounding states.

About 15 years ago we got into lining small diameter piping (6-inch diameter and down) because we would run into dilapidated pipe, and it would either not be feasible or possible to shut down a business to make the traditional repairs needed to restore flow in a timely manner.

If you think about it, a business or residence is not somewhere anyone wants to spend their time without working restrooms or sewer backups, so there had to be a better way to deal with this problem without creating additional issues that take people away from their business or family life. We started looking for reliable and unorthodox technologies, which we found in two different companies. One technology would do main line (8-inch diameter and larger) and another that would take care 6-inch diameter and down.

We bought into both companies and utilize both

technologies for the industries we serve.

Lining is basically putting a pipe inside of a pipe. It sounds like a magic trick, but it’s not.

There are actually two methods: pull in place and inversion techniques. Both have their place. We can either line the whole pipe or just a portion (start and stop). Both products are a two-part epoxy mixed together and then put into a flexible felt tube. The tube is then wet-out by pressure rollers and saturated completely. We then squeegee out the remaining epoxy, and depending on the method, we proceed to install the liner inside the pipe by inversion or by an inflatable bladder.

We then either let it ambient cure, or we cook off the epoxy with steam (3-hour cure). The finished product is a stronger, acid resistant, faster flowing pipe that will last up to 50 years or longer.

There is a peace of mind to be had in knowing that roots, separated joints, main connections, even no-pipe areas in a pipeline can be fixed without being invasive. These are just a few persistent problems that occur every year with certain aging facilities or homes. So don’t dig; there is a better way and we have it.

For more information, call 631-4343.

B12 • October 2015

Fall

Home Guide

The Homewood Star

Special Advertising Section

Telling the story of your home

By TAMMY HEINSS Fall is the perfect season for gathering. As the air starts to chill we ready our homes for friends and family to gather around our table and in our kitchen for hearty soups and warm conversation.

The clinking of glasses and dishware offer a sweet reminder that fun is in the house. Memories are being made.

Dreams are being shared.

This time of year we look forward to lounging around the family room with a sometimes rowdy crowd to scream, yell and cheer for our favorite football team - the enthusiasm moving us like musical chairs throughout the night.

With cooler temperatures the fire pit is once again enjoyed, and we are drawn to it for roasting marshmallows and simply sitting under the stars wrapped in our favorite throw with nothing to do but soak in the time. The rhythm of routine is relished and slowing our pace is welcomed.

Tailgating before and after a football game, whether it’s high school or college, becomes like a watering hole for humans. We come for camaraderie and refreshment, leave to watch our

favorite football team and then return to celebrate our victories or mourn our losses. Only later, sometimes much later, we sink deep into our bed, welcomed by dreamy quilts and comforters for a restful night’s sleep we are yearning for.

By themselves, the table and chairs with dishes, the sofa and throws and bedding are just furniture and dishes and pretty things. When placed together in your home, they begin to tell the story of your life by what happens around them. At Urban, we offer furnishings with a story.... your story. The story of your home.

A discussion around the dining table can spur a dream into action or just provide a retreat of understanding after a long day. Relationships are built and bonded under the ambient lighting and then memories are made around the sofa, chairs and coffee table watching a well-worn movie. The building and beauty of your life starts in your home, and we at Urban want to be a part of that.

We offer all the furnishings to enhance your journey or just get you started in this crazy adventure called life. Sofas and chairs in every shape and fabric to personalize for you and to express

your personality are in ample supply.

Our expanded bedding department will entice you to a treat of luxurious fabrics from a simple throw to a complete outfitting of your bed with most of them being machine washable.

Our lighting is to die for. The selection of styles and the scope of our offerings is something to see. Choosing light fixtures that will work best in your home is no small task, and we look forward to the opportunity of showing you what we have. Lighting makes such a difference in the ambience of our homes. Isn’t that what it’s all about anyway? Creating the atmosphere where gatherings are warm and relationships can flourish?

After all, it’s not just a sofa or a chair, or a throw, or just bedding and lighting.

It’s home. All the furnishings that give us comfort only take shape when the memories of life happen around them.

And that’s what makes a home. That’s what makes your story.

Here’s to a beautiful fall and furnishings with a story...yours!

For more information on Urban Home Market, call 980-4663 or visit urbanhomemarket.com.

TheHomewoodStar.com

Fall Home Guide

Special Advertising Section

October 2015 • B13

B14 • October 2015

Fall

Home Guide

The Homewood Star

Fall planting tips

oregano, chives, cilantro, sage and thyme love the cool temperatures of fall, and many go through the winter.

Special Advertising Section

What to look for this fall at Sweet Peas garden shop Since 2002, Sweet Peas has featured not only plants but also a variety of pottery, garden accessories, fertilizer options and gardening tools, aiming to be the customer’s total resource garden center.

With the arrival of fall, Jon Culver of Sweet Peas highlights what to look for in the shop and offers tips for planting in the fall.

What to look for Heirloom pumpkins and gourds of all shapes, sizes and colors are available. Use these to decorate the front porch for fall or use as a centerpiece for thanksgiving dinner. Of course we will have carving pumpkins for Halloween as well.

Look for color for your planters and garden.

The cooler weather means it’s time to pull out

those tired leggy summer annuals and replace them with fresh chrysanthemums, pansies, violas, marigolds, snapdragons and more. These love the cool weather and many bloom all winter.

Cool season herbs and vegetables include everything from lettuce, cabbage, collards, broccoli and cauliflower to rosemary, parsley, cilantro, thyme, kale, chard and more. Many of these can be used as edibles or simply for planter accents mixed with pansies. Winter vegetables are easier to grow than summer veggies.

The gift shop is busting with new finds from market and collections from local artisans. Spend some time looking for that perfect pot or door basket or Halloween decoration to complete your fall decorating.

`` The month of October is the perfect time for fall planting. `` Pansies and violas will provide the most color all fall and winter. `` Plants such as snapdragons, ornamental cabbage or kale, and mums are great companion plants with your pansies. `` Try planting bulbs such as tulips, daffodils and hyacinths under your pansies for early spring color. `` For edible gardening, plant lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels and collards. `` Herbs such as rosemary, lavender, parsley,

`` Plant with a time-released fertilizer, such as Osmocote, and supplement that with a liquid fertilizer in the winter. `` Fall is also the best time to plant trees and shrubs. Dig holes twice as wide but no deeper than the rootball. Always amend the soil with a good compost or soil amendment. Black Kow topsoil is my favorite.

For more information, visit sweetpeasgardenshop.com.

Fall Home Guide

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • B15

Special Advertising Section

One-stop shopping for remodeling and new construction

A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be

Are you thinking about building or remodeling your home? Take the next step and call the experts at Construx to assist you. Whether you have a specific vision for your home or just a couple of vague ideas, Construx can make it happen.

“Many people are choosing to remodel their current home at this time when the economic situation is working in their favor,” said owner and partner Kent Irwin. “And by doing it now, you can immediately enjoy those upgrades while adding value to your home.”

Bathroom trends: • Getting rid of the tub/shower combo and replacing it with a separate walk-in shower.

• Adding rimless glass shower walls.

• Adding features to allow you to age in place, such as handheld showers, seats and grab bars.

• Installing big plank tiles for floors and walls.

Kitchen trends: • Creating an open floor plan — opening your

kitchen to an adjoining room creates a dramatic effect and a great update.

• Installing hardwood flooring gives flow with the rest of the house and feels warm and inviting.

• Creating a kitchen island makes a good break between the kitchen and living space. Consider making it look like furniture.

• Installing quartz countertops.

Outdoor trends: • Increasing curb appeal and making a good first impression by updating front doors and entryways.

• Installing new windows adds energy efficiency and comfort.

• Building a wood deck or screened-in porch for extra outdoor living space.

Call Construx at 533-2668 for an appointment and free estimate or for more information. You can also visit construxhome.com.

Call the...

Remodeling Specialists

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling • Room Additions New Home Construction • Fencing & Decks Cabinets • Countertops • Flooring Call for an appointment •205.533.2668 2508 Rocky Ridge Rd., Vestavia Hills 35243

www.construxhome.com

When the weather gets frightful, your fireplace can be delightful.

Batts’ Chimney Services is a local family owned and operated, full service chimney company. Area residents have been relying on Batts’ for its professionalism and knowledge to handle their entire chimney needs for more than 36 years.

“Our goal is to provide the highest quality work at a reasonable price,” owner Phillip Batts said.

To ensure your chimney is in tiptop shape, the experts at Batts’ Chimney Services have answered some of the most important questions concerning the safety and upkeep of your fireplace.

How often should I have my chimney cleaned?

The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits and correct

clearances. Cleaning, maintenance and repairs shall be done if necessary.”

My fireplace has an odor. What can I do?

A good cleaning will help, and during this process Batts’ can determine if there are other contributing factors that need to be addressed.

I have water leaking into my fireplace and water stains on the ceiling and wall. Can your company fix my problem?

We will conduct a thorough inspection to determine where the water is coming from and help in the prevention of further leaks. Sometimes the problem is not chimney related. A roof problem can show up at the chimney and deceive us.

To learn more about Batts’ Chimney Services, visit battschimneyservices.com or call 956-8207. Visit csia.org/Homeowner-Resources/index.aspx for more FAQs on chimney service.

Fall

B16 • October 2015

Home Guide

The Homewood Star

Special Advertising Section

Money saving plumbing, heating and air tips Your typical household headaches — be it water heater failure, bursting pipes or a breakdown in heating and air — can be tackled with one phone call to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating.

Dan Stomoff, vice president, said, “We have been servicing the community for over 100 years. We started as Evans Services in 1901 and have been keeping the area cool and comfortable ever since. Though we have changed our name to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating, we are still building on our decades of experience.“

The companies pride themselves on an extensive list of guarantees to their customer, including, but not limited to: • On time technicians and plumbers • 100% satisfaction • No overtime rates — EVER • Friendly, courteous and skilled professionals Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating have helpful tips and tricks to help you save money.

Don’t let money drip away • For leaky faucets and showerheads, make sure your washers and gaskets are tight.

Replace them if they are worn with newer, water efficient options.

• The most common cause of a leaking toilet is often the inexpensive, rubber flapper.

Check for wear and replace if needed.

• Inspect your irrigation system and garden hoses. The spigot where the hose is attached to your home is a common area for leaks.

Change filters regularly Most HVAC filters are disposable and should be replaced every month. Reusable filters that are designed to be cleaned with a vacuum or garden hose can be cleaned even more frequently to maximize their effectiveness. If you’re running your air conditioner with a clogged filter, you’re forcing your system to work harder, which wastes energy. It also accelerates wear on your HVAC fan and other components, which costs you more in system maintenance.

For more information, call 205-533-7992.

At One Hour® We Offer the Following Services:

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® We Offer the Following Services:

 Residential & Commercial  Repairs & Replacements  Duct Cleaning

  

 Indoor Air Quality  Maintenance Agreements

Sewer & Drain Cleaning Garbage Disposals Water Heaters

 

Water Conditioning Leaks and Repairs

No Overtime or After Hours Fees EVER! Standard rates 24/7 including holidays & weekends because heating and air conditioning AND plumbing problems are an inconvenience no matter WHEN they happen.

$50 OFF

www.onehourbirmingham.com www.benfranklinplumberbirmingham.com

ANY REPAIR

CALL TODAY! 205-533-7992

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Some restrictions, taxes and fees may apply. Expires 12/31/15.

Drug Tested, Background-Checked Employees • StraightForward Pricing® • Fully Licensed and Insured BF Lic. # 00639 / OH Lic. # 15022

©2015 Clockwork IP, LLC

TheHomewoodStar.com

Fall

Home Guide

October 2015 • B17

Special Advertising Section

Changing the construction industry in Birmingham Nix Design Build is a full-service remodeling company specializing in design-build project delivery that is changing the construction industry in Birmingham through strict adherence to the core principles of craftsmanship, integrity and value.

Jeremy Nix has been part of the construction and remodeling industry for many years, having managed multiple, diverse residential home and multimillion dollar commercial and government projects. The quality of his work has brought him recognition as an industry leader by Professional Remodeler magazine and an inclusion on their “40 under 40 Class of 2014” list. Jeremy also received first place in the 2008 ABC Excellence in Construction Awards for the $5 million to $10 million category.

As an employee of RSU Contractors of Nashville, he opened that company’s Birmingham office at 920 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, in early 2014. Under his guidance, the local branch flourished and, in June of this year, Nix purchased the Birmingham division, renaming it Nix Design Build (NDB).

“The name may be new, but our location is the same and our highly dedicated and professional team remains intact,” he said. “Making this a ‘hometown’ company allows us to not only better serve our area but to be more community focused and more active locally.”

For those unfamiliar with design-build, it is a method of building in which the design and construction of a new space are contracted and controlled from one source. Traditional construction methods often require the client to serve as the designer or, worse yet, as a referee/mediator between the general contractor and the designer or architect. But NDB serves as a single point of accountability, creating a more organized and

controlled project. This process helps prevent unnecessary delays in schedule and added construction costs due to unforeseen design discrepancies typical of traditional construction.

“The NDB team can take you from zero to your design and then finished project with everything tailored to your budget,” Nix said. “NDB’s ability to provide our clients with excellent customer service and superior craftsmanship reflects the construction experts on our staff, the top design professionals we partner with, and our overall implementation of the design-build process.”

The advantages of the design-build process include: • Maintaining realistic project completion dates and reduction in the amount of time from the inception of your project to its completion.

Teamwork reduces rework and redesign.

• Phased construction: Allowing construction to begin before the full design is complete saves time.

• The creation of a non-adversarial relationship between owner, design members and the construction team. Team members are encouraged to work together to solve issues between design and construction to save time and money.

• Contractor-directed change orders are minimized, if not completely eliminated. Ongoing estimating during the design phase results in more accurate and guaranteed construction costs.

• For more information about Nix Design Build, go to nixdesignbuild.com or call 352-4100.

For more information on Nix Design Build, call 352-4100 or visit nixdesignbuild.com.

Nix Design Build

Fall

B18 • October 2015

Building this fall

Home Guide

The Homewood Star

Special Advertising Section

How to select antiques for the home and garden

Owners Ryan Harry, left, and Stephen Boehme, right.

Stephen Boehme, co-owner of Phoenix Builders Group, shares a little about his business and projects to tackle in the fall.

How did Phoenix Builders Group get its start?

Ryan Harry and I have known each other for over 10 years. We have worked together for several successful companies in the Birmingham area. We often talked about what it would be like to have our own company. As fate would have it, we both found ourselves in a place recently where we could really start to build on this dream. With much thought and planning, we formed Phoenix Builders Group.

What is your business philosophy?

We provide our customers with an experience that is developed from honesty, performed with accuracy, completed efficiently, and in an atmosphere that is both personal and professional.

What services do you specialize in?

We have a very wide base of quality trade partners that complement our personal experiences. This allows us to specialize in everything from new construction, remodels, additions, kitchens, baths, decks and porches to door and window swaps.

Are there any projects that people should take care of in the fall?

The fall season brings several advantages to certain projects. Generally, the weather is more predictable and not as rainy as in the spring. Fall also brings football gatherings and holiday planning. With football, people may want outdoor living spaces with decks, screen porches and fire pits. With the holidays on the horizon, it is the ideal time for kitchen and den renovations. There’s also the monetary benefit. In the fall to early winter, commodity lumber markets are at their low for the year.

For more information, call 966-0543

Christopher Glenn has been the place to find collectible items from another era for 22 years. With beautifully aged antiques and a large selection of decorative items, Christopher Glenn has everything you need to create the perfect atmosphere.

To help you navigate the many options available, Chris Carter of Christopher Glenn has answered some questions.

How can you tell the quality of an antique?

Look at the overall proportions of the piece.

Do the lines flow well? Are the legs and drawers as they should be? Check for the integrity and the construction methods used, such as the thickness of the wood or veneer. Has it been repaired or refinished? Are the pulls original?

Is there discoloration/oxidation where it should be?

Many older pieces will have some cracks where there has been shrinkage through the years.

What are some standout pieces available in

your store?

Beautiful crystal, iron and wooden chandeliers are available in all sizes. We also have ceramic and porcelain garden seats in assorted colors and patterns. These are very versatile as they can be used indoors or out. They are beautiful as a side table in a living room as well as out by a pool or on a patio. Blue and white porcelain is classic and timeless, and we have wonderful old and new pieces from which to choose.

How can you mix antiques with contemporary pieces?

Antiques can warm up a contemporary interior. Old wooden boxes can easily be mixed with any style. Our midcentury Italian Murano lamps look just as much at home on a 200-yearold chest as they do on a Lucite console. Large Chinese bowls or vases can make a statement as a pair or alone. They really generate a wow factor in a foyer or draw your eye to a bookcase.

For more information on Christopher Glenn, call 870-1236 or visit christopherglenninc.com.

TheHomewoodStar.com

Fall Home Guide

October 2015 • B19

Special Advertising Section

Make your space a reflection of you

At Mantooth Interiors, Lynette Mantooth has drawn upon years of experience to assemble one of the most impressive collections of fine home furnishings available in the Southeast. This luxury home interior design showroom has deep relationships with the most respected and innovative manufacturers in the business, which is key in sourcing the inspired pieces Lynette and her design staff use to craft unique solutions for their customers.

The collection includes a comprehensive catalog of upholstery, fine case goods, lighting, accessories, custom window treatments and the best in beds, bedding and linens. But the real difference that Mantooth Interiors delivers is in the way the experienced design staff listens and works with their clients to

bring the customer’s vision to life. It’s also a family business, with Lynette working together with her husband, Larry Mantooth, as true partners.

Lynette summed up what people can expect working with her and her design team this way: “The starting point for your home doesn’t have to be what’s trendy. And it also doesn’t need to be what’s been done time and time again. We approach design knowing that by spending time with you, we can help make your home a reflection of you.

It’s really about starting a conversation that can transform the way you live.”

For more information on Mantooth Interiors, call 879-5474 or visit mantoothinteriors.com.

Fall is for planting

“Fall is for planting” is a recurring theme in the garden center/nursery industry.

Fall planting is encouraged for many reasons.

First, it’s cooler, putting less stress on plants as they go into the ground. It’s also much easier on the person planting the plants.

As ground and air temperatures drop and day length shortens, plants are triggered to stop the growth of leaves and begin to put on new root growth. Whether you’re planting trees or shrubs, an abundance of new root growth occurs during fall, winter and early spring. So by planting now, plants are better rooted come summer time.

Keep in mind that fall is typically our driest season, so new plants must be watered. Also,

I like to tell people you must baby plants for two years to get them established before they can tolerate any neglect. I also often surprise people when telling them they can plant any time of the year. So if you want to plant in the dead heat of summer, it’s okay. You just have to remember to water.

Do you want to know when I do all my personal planting? It’s usually when we aren’t busy — and that would be January. Again, it really doesn’t matter. Do it when it is convenient for you. But don’t be surprised if you see articles this fall in the gardening magazines that fall is for planting!

For more tips on planting, gardening and other related topics, visit classicgardens.com.

It’s what we do...

Complete Landscaping Installation

Retaining Walls • Pathways • Patios Trees and shrubs • Sod • Irrigation Fertilization & Weed Control of Lawns

We’ve got you covered!

(205) 854-8001 • classicgardens.com

B20 • October 2015

A place where everyone knows your name

Fall

Home Guide

There are many specialty stores that cater to defined tastes and specific price points. However, Homewood Antiques strives to be a truly eclectic store in every sense of the word, a place that has something for everybody - regardless of their budget or their style.

At Homewood Antiques, you’ll find 10,000 square feet of diverse offerings including a wide assortment of home furnishings, artwork, lighting and other home accessories, many gift items, new clothing for adults and children, jewelry, hand-made goods and more. There are over 50 vendors who are constantly updating and changing their spaces, and for that reason there are usually new offerings daily throughout the store. That’s why many of their regulars shop several times a week and some everyday.

While Homewood Antiques is tucked away in the walk-in community of Edgewood at 930 Oxmoor Road, and is a shopping mainstay for that community, they are amazed at the number of people who drive from all over just to shop there. Not only do they have shoppers from throughout the Birmingham metro area, they also have shoppers from around the state of Alabama and beyond.

Since opening in September, 2010, Homewood Antiques has been a “family affair” and owner Chris Collins has had many family members and friends who have been and are still a part of making Homewood Antiques a place “where everybody knows your name.”

Chris, her family and staff want shoppers to browse and explore, and enjoy their time there. They look forward to visiting with you.

For more information visit www. homeantiques.com.

The Homewood Star

Special Advertising Section

What you need to know about home additions At Willow Homes, we enjoy working with our clients to create a quality and artistic solution to their needs. Each home has its own particular set of challenges that must be addressed. As you consider whether to add on to your current home versus selling your home and purchasing a new one, here are a few things to consider.

Two of the most important considerations are the condition of the existing home and the source of the financing for the project. If the house has some structural or major electrical issues, a renovation or addition is a great time to fold those repairs into a project that can increase the value of the home and spread those costs out over a low-rate mortgage. Because of the strength of the housing market in Homewood, it is very possible to add considerable space, update the condition of the home and end up with even more equity in your home.

When deciding to build an addition, there

are several factors you will want to take into consideration when choosing the right plan for you. You should consider the current topography of your lot, setbacks and current rezoning regulation; the type and condition of the foundation; the location of the utility connections on your existing home; and the age of the existing electrical system. For instance, a brick foundation and an electrical system that has not been updated in the last 20 years mean there is a possibility that additional work is necessary to stabilize the structure and to bring your electrical system to current codes.

Choosing an experienced contractor with expertise in working with older homes is a big factor in the success of your project. Visit our website to see a variety of projects and remodels or call to find out how we can help you create your very own happy place.

For more information, visit gowillowhomes. com.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • B21

Calendar Homewood Events Oct. 1: Brookwood Live Concert: Rock Candy. 5-9 p.m. Brookwood Village.

children ages 5-12, free children 4 and under. Visit visitvulcan.com.

Fall Festival. 3-7 p.m. Family-friendly activities, silent and live auction.

Oct. 8: Homewood Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Classic. Robert Trent Jones-Oxmoor Valley on the Valley Course. Visit homewoodchamber.org.

Oct. 13: Edgewood Night Out. 3 p.m.-Close of business. Downtown Edgewood. Proceeds will benefits Edgewood Elementary School.

Oct. 20 Homewood Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Roundtable. 11:25 a.m.-1 p.m. Brock School of Business, Samford University. Speaker will be State Representative David Faulkner. $30 members/$30 non-members. Visit homewoodchamber.org.

Oct. 8: Miss Samford Pageant. 7:30 p.m.

Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/ wrightcenter.

Oct. 11: Hall-Kent Elementary One-Mile Fun Run. 2 p.m. Call 423-2430.

Oct. 11: Vulcan AfterTunes: Karl Denson’s Fantastic Fall Tour. 3 p.m. Vulcan Park & Museum. $15 adults, $8 members and

Oct. 14 Maestro Goes to Muscle Shoals: Birmingham Music Club Young People’s Concert. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Samford University. Visit samford.edu/wrightcenter.

Oct. 17 Grace House Junior Board’s Pumpkin Festival. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $10 admission price includes a pumpkin and access to festivities. Visit ghpumpkinfest.com Oct. 17: Hall-Kent Elementary School

Oct. 20: Vienna Boys Choir. 8 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/ wrightcenter.

Oct. 24: Handmade Art Festival. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Patriot Park. Visit facebook.com/ homewoodartscouncil.

Oct. 11: Vulcan AfterTunes: Dom Flemmons. 3 p.m. Vulcan Park & Museum. $15 adults, $8 members and children ages 5-12, free children 4 and under. Visit visitvulcan.com.

Oct. 29: Pills to Needles: a Pathway to Heroin Addiction. 8-9:15 a.m. Homewood Board of Education, 450 Dale Ave. Oct. 30: Homewood Witches Ride. 4:30 p.m. registration, 5:45 ride. Homewood Central Park.

Ride raises money for the American Cancer Society.

Visit facebook.com/homewoodwitchesride.

Oct. 31: Kickball JamBOOrie. West Homewood Park. All proceeds will go to Project Homewood,. $300 per team. Contact Alissa Brock at alissa.thurmond@homewoodal.org.

Homewood Library Events Kids Oct. 5: Doctor Who Party. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. An evening of wibbly wobbly, timey wimey, Doctor Who geekiness. Families welcome.

Oct. 8: iTween: Pumpkin Decorating Party and Contest. 4 p.m. Round Auditorium.

Bring your pumpkin and your imagination.

Decorations provided. No carving required. Contest to follow. Open to fourth to seventh graders.

Oct. 10: Father Goose on the Loose. 10 a.m. in the Large Auditorium. Charles Ghigna will

read from his new books Tiny Tales and A Carnival of Cats! Signing to follow. Snacks will be provided.

Oct. 10: Star Wars Read Day. 1-4 p.m. in the Round Auditorium. An international event that celebrates reading and Star Wars. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of Star Wars fun.

games, make crafts and eat some treats.

Teens

Oct. 15: Pixar Party. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. A night of crafts, games and snacks.

Dress up as your favorite Pixar character.

Oct. 1: Coding 101. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Round Auditorium. Teens that have an interest in learning the basics of coding and computer sciences are encouraged to attend this beginning class.

Participants are also encouraged to bring their laptops.

Oct. 31: Charlie Brown’s Great Pumpkin Patch. 10:30 a.m. Round Auditorium. Dress up in your costume and join the Peanuts Gang and play

Oct. 3: Teen CPR and First Aid Training.

1-4 p.m. in the Round Auditorium. Certified CPR and basic first aid training class. Online registration

required. $8 must be paid online at the time of registration.

Oct. 5: 12, 19 & 26: American Sign Language (ASL) Classes. 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Room 101 (Lower Level). Month-long series will meet every Monday in October. An interpreter from the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind will instruct teens and adults on the basics of ASL. Registration is required.

Oct. 6: Marvel Movie. 3:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. See the latest film in Marvel’s superhero series. Refreshments and popcorn served.

The Homewood Star

B22 • October 2015

Calendar Homewood Library Events (continued)

Oct. 12: Teen Advisory Board (TAB). 6 p.m. in the Lucretia M. Somers Boardroom. Open to teens Grades 6-12 who want to take an active role at the Homewood Public Library.

An application must be submitted for consideration. Application materials can be downloaded from the library’s website or picked up at the Adult Services Desk.

Oct 13 & 27: Girls Who Code. 4-6 p.m. Lucretia M. Somers Boardroom. This national program is geared towards empowering girls who are interested in the computer science field. Participants are encouraged to bring their laptops.

Oct. 15: Teen Anime Club. 3:30 p.m. Round Auditorium. The Anime Club will be learning the art and ease of making sushi with the help of Birmingham Sushi Classes. Online registration required.

Oct. 18- 24: Teen Read Week Instagram Contest.

Take a picture with your favorite teen book and post to Instagram.

Tag @HomewoodPublic and use #homewoodteens to be entered for a chance to win a gift card.

unexplained creatures. Join us as Jim Phillips explores the haunts of Antebellum Alabama. For adults & teens only.

Oct. 16: After Hours at the Library: Absinthe Tasting with Ted Breaux. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. Ted Breaux reveals the truth behind this 200-year-old elixir. Ages 21 and up; under 21 will not be admitted. Limited seating; advance reservations required.

Oct. 17: How to Survive National Novel Writing Month & How to Plot Your Novel. 1 p.m.

Round Auditorium. In this workshop for adults and teens, learn tips and tricks to maintain motivation and manage your writing space to reach that finish line. Then, stick around for Part Two of our afternoon NaNoWriMo extravaganza and learn how to use the Snowflake Method (created by author Randy Ingermanson) to lay out a path through plot and character for you to follow on your monthlong writing adventure.

Adults

Oct. 19: Bossypants Book Club. 6:30 p.m. Nabeel’s Café.

Join a book discussion across the street to Nabeel’s Café and enjoy food and fun while discussing Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell.

Oct. 1: Jane Austen Tea with Austen Scholar, Dr. Ted Benditt. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. Bring your own tea cup and join us for tea as Dr. Benditt, president of the Alabama chapter of the Jane Austen Society of North America, discusses the world of Jane Austen. Space is limited; online registration is required.

Oct. 23-24: Mystery Dinner Theatre: The Mousetrap. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. A murder mystery by Agatha Christie presented by South City Theater. Buffet starting at 6:30 p.m., and the show follows. $30 for the buffet and show.

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Oct. 3: Self–Defense for Women with Det. Juan Rodriquez. 9:30 a.m. Large Auditorium. Detective Juan Rodriquez, owner of the Summit Training Academy, teaches how to size up a situation and decide what you should do. Participation in the workshop is free. Registration is required.

Oct. 27: Book Signing with Kim Johnson, Author of Haunted Shelby County. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. Join author and paranormal researcher Kim Johnston as she delivers a fascinating collection of haunts and legends from around Shelby County.

Oct. 8: Spectres & Haunts in the Antebellum South with Jim Phillips. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. The Southern states abound in stories of restless spirits, mysteries and

Oct. 30: Ghost Ships & Rogue Waves with Niki Sepsas. Noon. Room 101 (Lower Level). Niki Sepsas explores these myths of the high seas.

Homewood Athletics Varsity Football Oct. 2: Varsity Football: Homewood @ Minor. 7 p.m.

Oct. 5: Junior Varsity Football: Homewood @ Minor.

6 p.m.

Oct. 6: Varsity Volleyball: Homewood @ Woodlawn.

5 p.m.

Oct. 8: Varsity Volleyball: Homewood v. Ramsay. 5 p.m.

Oct. 9: Varsity Football: Homewood @ Walker. 7 p.m.

Oct. 9: Varsity Volleyball: Homewood v. John Carroll Catholic TBA Oct. 12: Junior Varsity Football: Homewood @ Walker. 6 p.m.

Oct. 13: Varsity Volleyball: Homewood @ Oak Mountain. 5 p.m.

Oct. 16: Varsity Football: Homewood v. Hueytown.

7 p.m.

Oct. 19: Junior Varsity Football: Homewood @ Hueytown. 7 p.m.

Oct. 22: Varsity Football: Homewood @ JacksonOlin 7 p.m.

Oct. 26: Junior Varsity Football: Homewood v.

Jackson-Olin. 6 p.m.

Oct. 30 Varsity Football: Homewood @ Tuscaloosa County. 7 p.m.

TheHomewoodStar.com

October 2015 • B23

Calendar

Opinion

Area Events

Ordinary Days By Lauren Denton

Oct. 1 Ballet Women’s Committee Extravaganza: 6:309:30 p.m. Alabama Ballet, 2726 1st Ave. South. Tickets include hors d’oeuvres, beverages, live music and a performance by the Alabama Ballet along with a silent auction and raffle. Visit balletwomen.com.

Oct. 1-3: 43rd Annual Greek Festival. 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Downtown Birmingham. Featuring food, music, jewelry, art and more. Free admission. Visit bhamgreekfestival.com Oct. 1-4: Antiques in the Gardens. Thursday 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Visit bbgardens.org/ antiques.

Oct. 6: Birmingham Financial Planning Expo. Hoover Public Library.

Educational workshops and meetings with financial planners.

Oct. 8: Girls on the Run Evening of Empowerment.

5:30 p.m. Clubhouse at Highlands, 2908 Highland Ave. South. Featuring cocktails, appetizers and meet-andgreet with Women Who Inspire. Visit girlsontherunbham.org Oct. 10: Walk to End Alzheimer’s. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Railroad Park. Visit act.alz.org.

Oct. 11: Cahaba River Fry-

Down. Noon-4 p.m., Railroad Park.

Food, beer, music and fun to benefit the Cahaba River Society. $20 donation for adults, 12 and under free. Visit frydown. com Oct. 14: 57th Linly Heflin Annual Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show. 11:30 a.m. doors, Noon luncheon. Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom. Visit linlyheflin.org/fashion-show/.

Oct. 17: 12th Annual Holy Apostles Denim & Diamonds Dinner and Auction. 5:30 p.m.

Harley Davidson Event Room, Pelham.

Tickets $30, $225 table of eight. Contact Mickey Bunn 886-2769.

Oct. 17-18: Fall Plant Sale.

Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Blount Plaza, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Visit bbgardens.org.

Oct. 21- Nov. 1: Shop Save & Share. Use a card for up to 20 percent discount at select stores. Benefits the Junior League of Birmingham. $40. Visit shopsaveandshare.net.

Oct. 31: Fare Walk for Food Allergy. 8:30 a.m. Railroad Park, 1600 1st Ave. South. Visit foodallergywalk.org.

Nov. 1: 10th Annual Out of the Darkness Walk. 2:30 p.m.

Heardmont Park. Registration at 1 p.m.

Visit afsp.org.

HOMEWOOD

•

ALABAMA

877-8797

Wayne Salem, Owner

2913 18th Street S. www.salemsdiner.com Monday - Friday: 6:30 am - 2:00 pm Saturday: 6:30 am - 3:00 pm

HOME OF THE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK

Of marriage and home repair A few weeks ago, my husband, to those things in our marriage.

Matt, and his dad spent close to In the day-in, day-out busyness 10 hours replacing siding, inteof living, working, raising kids, rior and exterior wood trim and cooking meals, cleaning up, and shutters on the side of our house. wiping tears and bottoms, it can As he cleaned up, he did so be easy to just keep pushing forknowing he wasn’t finished — ward, passing like ships in the he’d have to spend more precious night, occasionally squeezing weekend hours caulking around in a short conversation before the new wood, painting it, then we both collapse in bed and fall probably doing the whole process asleep. But just like old houses, again at a later date on another marriages require work, energy Denton portion of the house. and attention. We often feel like Like so many of you, we live in a typical our attention is all used up, but the marriage 1950s Homewood bungalow, one that’s full — the relationship — is the foundation that of both charm and headaches. Matt and I have everything else is built on. If it’s not strong at spent considerable time re-caulking around its core, nothing else will be. tubs and cracks as the house shifts, adding At the end of the day, our house isn’t permore weather-stripping to keep unwanted heat fect, but then again, neither are we. Actually, and cold out of the house, and filling holes the house is a fairly good representation of under the kitchen sink to keep out other types who we are as a couple and a family. Our floors of unwanted “guests.” It’s a constant process, aren’t perfectly level, our interior doors don’t but it’s worth it because we love our town, our always close right and yes, we occasionally neighborhood and our street. We deal with the have snakes in our backyard. But, the house is headaches because we don’t want to leave. cozy, warm in the winter, cool in the summer, This month marks 10 years of living in our a soft place to land at the end of the day when house. If you’d told me when we moved in all is quiet. Here we are, 10 years in and we that 10 years later, we and our two children have more laughter than tears, more love would still be living in what we intended to than anxiety, more hope than distress. Here’s be our pre-children “starter” home, I wouldn’t to many more decades— n ot necessarily all have believed you. spent in this house, but hopefully not too far This month also marks 10 years of mar- away from the spot where we began. riage for me and Matt. Just as we’ve learned I’d love to connect! Email me at LaurenKto be attentive to little cracks and shifts, leaks Denton@gmail.com or find me on Twitter @ and drips in our house, we’re also attentive LaurenKDenton.