Aug. 12, 2010 Over the Mountain Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY AUGUST 12, 2010

Moms Have a Field Day

Homewood moms recently hit the field to learn a little bit about what their sons experience during football practice. Homewood hosted its first Football 101 for Moms Journal Photo by Laura McAlister at the high school to teach moms a little more about the sport while raising money for a good cause. See Life on page 6.

Mountain Brook’s Annual Dawg Daze will be Aug. 21 in Crestline Village starting at 8 a.m. with sidewalk sales from local merchants. See About Town, page 5.

Close to 500 people attended the recent Art from the Heart at A remodeled kitchen turns into the heart of the B&A Warehouse. This year marked the 21st year of the event home, and a newly landscaped garden becomes a great spot to entertain. See Home, page 16. that benefits Studio by the Tracks. See Social, page 8.

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CONTENTS/OPINION

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ee who has been spotted and where with more photos from the areas’s hottest social events.

ake a look at what the Gorham’s garden looked like before, during and after the landscaping. Plus get tips on how to grow your own garden with pretty yet practical plants.

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rowse through our events calendar for more happenings in the Over the Mountain area. Don’t see your event posted? Send it to us.

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ot the OTMJ Guide? The OTMJ Guide is a listing of all things Over the Mountain. Don’t see your business, let us know and we’ll post it free.

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oin the conversation. Follow us on Facebook or register at otmj.com to comment on stories and tell us what you think.

Yes, it’s that time of year – football season! See what’s in store for Over the Mountain teams, plus fall fashion trends.

F E AT U R E S ABOUT TOWN LIFE PEOPLE SOCIAL

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HOME WEDDINGS SCHOOLS SPORTS

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August 12, 2010

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Laura McAlister Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Bones Long, Cary Estes, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Editorial Intern: Crystal Carr Vol. 18, No. 15

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to more than 40,000 households in the Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Hot Property is a paid advertisement. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2010 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Kibble Conundrum

saw an internet dog I have no idea if that’s the direction the company’s food ad the other day taken. I wasn’t asked to be part of the test panel. Now announcing the manuthat I think about it, I wonder how many dogs they facturer’s “Exciting New did poll to determine this change. Not being a doggie Kibble!” scientist, I have no idea if there’s a specific number This could be terrific, of dogs required to constitute a reliable representative a landmark moment in the sampling. Does it have to be a true crossbreed populahistory of canine cuisine ... tion or can you slide by with a pack of professional TV that is, if you’re a dog look- dogs already trained to careen around the kitchen corner ing for a change. Yes, there and snarf down whatever is in the advertiser’s bowl? must be dogs out there that And just how excited did the test dogs get? Did have been counting the days some lab-coated assistant stand there with a clipboard Susan Murphy until the producer launched recording the amount of tail wagging elicited with each this new formula, but what comparative bite? “On a scale from one to 10 woofs, about the dogs that were happy with the kibble just the how likely would you be to choose this brand again?” way it was, those trusted family And what kind of kibble did they companions whose tails will droop use as a control group, some day I guess what I’m saying when they discover that their tried old discount dog food pulled from and true kibble got the old heavethe back of someone’s garage? is, what choices did the ho?

I guess what I’m saying dogs have? Unless you’re is, what choices did the dogs It’s a New Coke moment to be sure. I’m guessing the company Unless you’re a tutu-clad a tutu-clad Chihuahua rid- have? tested this new recipe, probably Chihuahua riding around in Paris assembled a special doggie panel ing around in Paris Hilton’s Hilton’s purse, you don’t get to to participate in a blind taste test. shopping anyway. You have purse, you don’t get to go go It wouldn’t be that hard to set to eat what’s put in front of you, up, dogs not being accomplished exciting or not. That’s a dog’s life. shopping anyway. readers and all. My dog Buster I don’t know why I’m getting Joe used to come running every so worked up about this. I don’t time he heard the can opener, but I even have a dog anymore. Poor never saw him peer at the label to Freeway and Buster Joe have see whether the day’s offering was chicken or beef. He gone to the Great Doggie Beyond where I’m sure there liked them both. He wasn’t all that crazy about liver, are Cheerios and Cheetos galore. Their vitamin and but then, who is? mineral days are over.

I’m not sure Buster Joe would have been excited But, some part of me still feels the need to speak about any kind of kibble. He wasn’t big on foods that up for my canine brothers and sisters, give voice to the were crunchy, unless you count popcorn and Cheerios. questions they might ask if they could.

Maybe that’s the secret to this new formula. Maybe Like I said, this new kibble might be a real canine instead of the standard carnivore flavors the company taste breakthrough. If your dog rushes forward and went the junk food route, covertly added a little Oil of wolfs it all down, tail on high-wag, I’d say it’s a winner.

Cheetos or Essence of Things You Might Pull Out of If he gives it a perfunctory sniff and runs off to see if the Trash Can. Inject a few vitamins and minerals on someone’s left the lid off the trash can, you can file the the sly and you’d have a true pet/pet owner, win/win effort under inflated advertising. Exciting new kibble? combo. That would be exciting, genius in fact.

We’ll see. New Coke was a bust. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What’s the most difficult do-it-yourself home renovation project?

“Replacement of worn out plumbing parts because most people lack experience when it comes to plumbing issues.”

Wray Allen Rocky Ridge Hardware in Vestavia Hills

“Electrical wiring because most people are not familiar with it. You have to know about electrical wiring or you could burn your house down. ” Jim Hall Rocky Ridge Hardware in Vestavia Hills

“Replacing a toilet because most people are afraid of plumbing.”

Frank Davies Little Hardware in Mountain Brook

“Replacing glass because you could cut yourself.”

Ernest Ritenour Little Hardware in Mountain Brook

Got a home renovation success or horror story? We want to hear about it. Share it with us at otmj.com!

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

Are You Ready for Some Football Fundraisers?

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 3

Boiling ‘N’ Bragging Event to Aid Critical Care Transport

The second annual Boiling ‘N’ Bragging event will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 14 at Otey’s Tavern in Mountain Brook. The authentic Low Country boil and football season kickoff party is sponsored by the Rotary International District 6860 and the Rotaract Club of Shelby County.

The event will feature food, drinks, family-friendly activities and live music by the Hurlers.

The event raises funds for the critical care transport service at Children’s Hospital.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door; children 10 and younger are admitted free.

For sponsorship opportunities and online registration, visit www.chsys.org/events.

Tailgate Challenge Benefits Bell Center

Fans can get ready for football season at the Bell Center Tailgate Challenge Aug. 28 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces.

Tailgating teams will compete for top recognition, including best tasting food, most team spirit and best all around.

Teams representing Alabama, Auburn, UAB, Samford, Georgia, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Tennessee, Kentucky, South Carolina and Texas will prepare tastes of tailgating food for sampling. A complete barbecue spread is being provided by Jim ’N Nick’s.

Mascots Aubie and Big Al

Getting ready for the second annual Boiling ‘N’ Bragging event are from left: Joey Jones, Courtney Lucas, Monte Gould, Ted Burns and Photo special to the Journal Caroline Powell. will greet fans at the Tailgate Challenge and help present awards to winning tents.

Celebrity judges will choose the winners.

Other activities include live music, children’s inflatables and a face-painting station specializing in team logos.

Tickets are $15; children ages 10 and under will be admitted free. The admission price includes a barbecue dinner as well as samples at the tailgating tents.

For information on registering a tent, call 879-3417 or e-mail mfarr@thebellcenter.org.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs, whose mission is to maximize the potential of children from birth to 3 years of age at risk for developmental delay.

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Girl Scout Recruitment Opens in Vestavia Hills

Girl Scouts built rockets at NASA. Some toured the Vatican.

Others talked politics with Condoleezza Rice. Some girls even met Indy car driver and former Girl Scout Danica Patrick at the Indy Grand Prix.

A Girl Scout Sampler Aug. 21 offers a chance to learn more about opportunities like these for girls ages 5-17 who join the Girl Scouts.

The event will be from 10 a.m. to noon at St. Mark United Methodist Church.

During the event, girls will participate in activities led by area troops, while parents attend an informative meeting about Girl Scout programs. For more information, call Jennifer Ray at 837-1492 or visit www.girlscoutsnca.org for information on how to volunteer for the Girl Scouts.❖

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4 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

ABOUT TOWN the Patron’s Dinner provided by Gorham’s executive chef prior to the performance. Tickets for the dinner and performance are $75 per person. Tickets to the dinner, performance and bus transportation from Alabama Ballet’s Studios in Birmingham to Gorham’s Bluff are $100.

Call 975-2787 for tickets or email information@alabamaballet. org for information.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

of the American Cancer Society and instrumental in building the lodge.

For more information on the car or to buy tickets to the event, call Ashley Wilkinson at 9308867.

Autism Society Plans Annual FROG Affair The Alabama Ballet will once again host performances outside at Photo Special to the Journal Gorham’s Bluff Aug. 13-14.

Alabama Ballet to Host Performances at Gorham’s Bluff

bers, who will answer questions, give demonstrations and offer commentary about the different pieces.

On schedule for both evenings are pieces highlighting both contemporary and classical choreography, including excerpts from “Giselle” and “Le Corsaire” as well as Roger Van Fleteren’s “Shostakovich.” Back by popular demand will be Christopher Bruce’s rocking “Rooster.”

Audience members may attend

Spectacular views, dancing and fine dining await audiences during Alabama Ballet’s outdoor performances Aug. 13-14 at Gorham’s Bluff.

In the Bluffside Dance Tent overlooking the Tennessee River Valley, those in the audience can interact with artistic team mem-

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The Autism Society of Alabama will host the 13th annual FROG Affair Aug. 21 from 7 to 10 p.m. at WorkPlay, at 500 23rd Street South.

The event, presented by Infinity Insurance Co., will offer live music by Entice, catering by LaNetta Jarman and silent and live auctions.

Donated vacations include the Wellness Pharmacy Big Sky Montana Adventure, a five-night excursion through Yellowstone National Park. Other items include rare crystal earrings, hotel accommodations, gift certificates, a Caribbean vacation, a double-strand pearl necklace from Barton-Clay and more.

Reserved seating is available for sponsors. Tickets are $85.

ASA board members from Birmingham include Bill Pearson, president; Ryan Thomas, immediate past president; Jonathan Nelson, treasurer; and Jodi Smith, general counsel.

The FROG Affair fundraising committee includes Jonathan Nelson, Matt Maini, Peggy Stevens, Lacey Ezekiel, Jessica Charlton, Melanie Jones, Tracy Cron, Kassady Gibson and Jenifer Gallini.

Tickets can be purchased at http://www.autism-alabama.org/.

The auctioneer will be Ken Jackson. Items up for auction include tickets to the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Final Four, a week vacation for up to six people to Abaco Island in the Bahamas, a trip for two with the team to the UAB vs.

Tennessee football game Sept.

25, an original painting by Joey Longoria of the 2010 U.S. Open Champion and Former UAB golfer Graeme McDowell and sculptures from renowned artist Frank Fleming.

Tickets are $250. For more information contact Carlin Everts at (205)996-9969.

Summer Celebration Wraps Up With Events in Vestavia Hills

Attending last year’s auction benefiting UAB athletics were from left: Brian Mackin, director of UAB Athletics; Neil Callaway, UAB head football coach; and Mike Davis, UAB head basketball Photo Special to the Journal coach.

Dinner, Auction Celebrates UAB Athletics

The UAB Athletics Seventh Annual Dinner and Live Auction will be Aug. 22 at Park Lane in English Village. Cocktails start at 5:30 p.m. and dinner seating and auction begin at 7 p.m.

The dinner will include petit filet of beef tenderloin and maple-glazed salmon catered by Kathy G.

The 29th Annual I Love American Summer Celebration Series presented by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and Parks and Recreation will wrap up Aug. 13 at Wald Park with several events for the whole family.

There will be free swimming at Wald Park Pool from 6:30-7:30 p.m. along with other children’s activities provided by First Baptist Church of Birmingham. The Business Expo will be from 6:30-8 p.m., and the Vestavia Hills High School Band will provide entertainment beginning at 7 p.m.

The Movie, “Tooth Fairy,” will begin at dusk, or approximately 8 p.m.

Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the event.

Admission is free, and be sure to brings your own lawn chairs and blankets to watch the movie. ❖

HealthSouth Donates BMW for Annual Hope Gala Auction

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This year’s American Cancer Society Hope Gala auction includes a unique donation from HealthSouth. Volunteers for the Aug. 28 event hope to sell a 2000 7 Series BMW, given to the organization by the Birmingham company.

The bulletproof car, loaded with options and certified by a local BMW dealer, is a black, four-door 740i, with 18,000 miles.

It was originally purchased for $135,000.

All proceeds will benefit cancer patients in the area.

This year, the Hope Gala is celebrating its 30th year by recognizing the 10th birthday of the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge, along with its namesake.

The Hope Lodge is a place where cancer patients stay at no charge while seeking medical treatment in Birmingham. Joe Lee Griffin was a longtime supporter

Lisa Smith Sharp, the Hope Gala event chairman, stands next to the 2000 7 Series BMW donated by HealthSouth for the Hope Gala auction set for Aug. 28.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Mountain Brook Celebrates Summer with Dawg Daze

Mountain Brook’s annual Dawg Daze will be Aug. 21 in Crestline Village. The event includes a parade of dogs, a Puppy Crawl and children’s activities plus special sales from area merchants.

The day begins at 8 a.m. when merchants open their “flea markets,” or sidewalk sales, and registration for Dawg Daze opens.

The Puppy Crawl, a one-mile fun run for kids, will begin in front of Mountain Brook City Hall at 8:30 a.m. followed by the parade at 9 a.m.

More than 100 dogs are expected to parade down Church Street in costume with their owners. After the parade, the Canine Queen and King will be crowned by the event sponsor and the mayor in front of City Hall.

Registration is $5 for the parade and $10 for the Puppy Crawl. Pre-registration for both events is at the Mountain Book Chamber of Commerce office or at www.welcometomountainbrook.com.

Merchant flea market registration is $25. Call the chamber at 871-3779 for more information.

Activities and sales will continue throughout the day; the event will end around 4 p.m.

ABOUT TOWN

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 5

Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

“Whale of a Sale” Children’s Consignment Sale

Getting ready for Mountain Brook’s Dawg Daze are from left: Laurel Bassett with Town & Country Clothing, Ernie Gerontakis with Gus’s Hot Dogs, Jeff Pizitz with 32° A Yogurt Bar, Suzan Doidge with the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce, George Jones with Snoozy’s Kids! and Sarah Bailey with Once Upon a Time.

Vestavia Looking for Ideas for Shopping District Names

The city of Vestavia Hills and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce want to re-name two shopping districts on Alabama 31 South and North.

Those with ideas for names can submit their suggestions. The top names will be chosen by marketing professors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Samford University. The citizens of Vestavia Hills will vote on the top submissions to make the final decision.

The three finalists for each district will receive a $50 Visa gift card.

Deadline for submissions is Aug. 16. The final decision will be made by Sept. 3. Visit www. vestaviahills.org for more information.

Ramsey High Grads to Reunite at The Club Ramsey High School graduates from the classes of 1967-72 are invited to a reunion at The Club Ballroom at 7 p.m. Aug. 27.

Music will be provided by the Flashbacks. There will be heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at the door.

For more information e-mail RamseyReunion2010@gmail. com. ❖

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LIFE

6 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

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Football 101 (for moms)

Homewood moms Catherine Walker, above, and Linda Smith, pictured center, practice tackling.

HHS coach Dickey Wright gives moms the rules before starting Football 101 practice.

Moms on the Move – STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOURNAL EDITOR LAURA MCALISTER –

It wasn’t the threat of thunderstorms that had Homewood High School head football coach Dickey Wright concerned before a recent practice at the school. It was where he was going to store all those purses.

The school hosted its first Football 101 for Moms July 29, and instead of telling moms about the sport, they had them on the field playing it.

About 40 Homewood moms showed up for the practice.

Some prepared by wearing workout clothes and tennis shoes. Others, well, were not so prepared.

“I just wore what I’ve been wearing all day,” See more pictures of said Linda Smith, Homewood moms tackling who was dressed in capris pants paired the sport of football. with a ruffled, white blouse and flip flops.

“At least you took your heels off,” a fellow mom commented as Smith made her way to the field.

Like many of the moms at Football 101, Smith said she wanted to learn a little something about the sport.

“I have a 12th grader, so it’s probably time I figure this out,” she joked.

That was one goal of the event – educating

Get more at OTMJ.com

moms on the basics of the sport. The other was to raise money for breast cancer research. Wright came up with the idea as a way to honor his mother.

“My mother was a breast cancer survivor, and I thought this was one way I could give back,” he said. The cost of the class was $10, all of which is being donated to breast cancer research. “I know it’s a small donation, but it’s better than nothing,” Wright said.

Although the one-time session lasted for only two hours, it also was “better than nothing” for many of the participating moms.

The evening started with some warm-ups.

Moms lined up on Homewood’s practice field doing stretches, jumping jacks and squats. Then they broke down into small groups where they rotated through different practice stations manned

by Homewood High and Middle School coaches.

That’s when the real learning took place. There were seven stations, each focusing on the different positions. Moms spent about 10 minutes learning and playing the basics of each.

While the coaches tried to make the practice similar to what the students go through, there were a few exceptions for the moms.

“Rule No. 1 is if you can’t do it, don’t do it,” Wright said. “Out here, moms, the kids have to,

but tonight, you’re volunteers.”

Whether dressed in capris and flip flops or tennis skirts and tanks, the moms made their way through the practice stations. They practiced throwing and running, and even a little tackling.

“This has been really good,” said mom Teresa Aultman. “I’ve learned more in the last 30 minutes than I ever have, and plus I got to meet some of the moms.”

For the more sport savvy moms, Football 101 was a way to get together with fellow football moms and learn a little bit more about what their boys go through.

“I’m a big football fan, so I’m pretty well versed,” said Angela Griffis. “I really just wanted to be able to appreciate what the boys go through, the conditioning. I also want to drink out of one of those water fountains.”

The same fountains the Patriots use during practice were available to the moms. However, as Wright noted during the practice, many moms came with their own “fancy water bottles.”

They left with a new appreciation and understanding of the game their sons play.

Wright said he plans to make Football 101 for Moms an annual event. And next year, he’ll know to reserve a spot in the locker room to store all those purses. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Connie Grund Presents Spirit of 1812 DAR Award

Antonia van Os of Mountain Brook recently attained a rating of H-A from the U.S. Pony Club.

Mountain Brook Rider Attains H-A Rating Antonia van Os of Mountain Brook attained a rating of H-A at a recent United States Pony Club testing held in Louisville, Ky., at Spring Run Farm. Van Os, 18, was riding Cody, an American Paint owned by Jim Walker of Blackjack Farms.

To attain a rating of H-A, van Os passed an examination which tested horsemanship skills as well as knowledge.

She is a member of Cahaba Pony Club and has been active since 2005. She has progressed through the local ratings through C-2; the H-A was her third National Level exam.

The daughter of Floris and Sarah van Os, she plans to attend Berry College, where she will be a member of the equestrian team, this fall.

Leara Achieves Eagle Scout Ranking

Paul Stephen Leara, a member of Troop 320 at Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in May. He has been active in scouting for 10 years.

For his Eagle service project, Leara designed and constructed an extension for the visitor’s pathway at the Alabama Veterans Memorial, which aided in erosion control and access to the memorial. He Paul Stephen Leara also raised more than $700 in excess funds that were donated to the Alabama Veterans Memorial.

Leara, a rising junior at Mountain Brook High School, is a member of the varsity baseball team, National Junior Honor Society, Interact Club, Future Business Leaders of America, Young Republicans and Spanish Club.

The son of Mary and Steve Leara, he attends church at the Holy Trinity/Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

The national society of the United States Daughters of 1812 announced that its first Spirit of 1812 Award was presented in Princetown, Devon, England by Connie Grund of Mountain Brook.

Grund serves as a Chairman National of the Preservation of St. Michael and All Angels Church Committee.

The church was built in Princetown during the War of 1812

by American POWs. Ron Joy of England, the church historian, acts as a liaison for the Washington D.C.-based organization. He has been keeping the women of USD 1812 informed about the church and its maintenance needs for 32 years.

Grund proposed the new national award after being inspired

by Joy’s dedication to the memory of the U.S. soldiers. With the war’s bicentennial approaching, the women decided it would be fitting to present a medal award to people in the U.S. and abroad who have preserved the history and memory of the War of 1812.

Anna Riley Receives Writing Awards

Anna Riley, a graduating senior from the Alabama School of Fine Arts, has received the Regional Gold and National Silver award from the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.

Riley is a member of the National Honor Society and the Mu Alpha Theta Math Society.

She has a 4.3 GPA and was awarded the Outstanding Senior Visual Arts Award.

Riley is an active volunteer for Alabama Art Anna Riley Shows and art museum special exhibits.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 7

PEOPLE She has also received scholarships to attend the Rhode Island School of Design in the fall.

Riley is the daughter of Hobson and Regenia Riley of Southlake Estates, Hoover.

Mackin Earns Rank of Eagle Scout

Will Glover Mackin of Hoover was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in a Court of Honor Ceremony May 16 at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church Chapel.

He is the son of Koko and Stan Mackin Jr. Mackin began his scouting experience in 1998 as a Tiger Cub with Pack 119 and received his Arrow of Light before he crossed over to Boy Scout Troop 119 in March 2003.

As a member of Troop 119, Mackin earned 30 merit badges, nine more than the 21 Will Glover required for Mackin the rank of Eagle Scout.

For his Eagle Scout leadership project, Mackin and Troop 119 scouts spent more than 134 hours building six wooden benches for the wooded trails at Hoover’s Veterans Park.

Mackin completed his Eagle Board of Review on Jan. 19 and became the first Eagle Scout for Shelby County for 2010.

A Spain Park High School graduate, he will be a freshman at the University of Alabama this fall.

Homewood Optometrist Honored

Dr. Frank LaRussa has been named Regional Optometrist of the Year for his exceptional customer service.

LaRussa, an optometrist at the Lakeshore Parkway Walmart Vision Center, was honored at the annual

The Friends of the Hoover Library installed new officers at its May 14 luncheon at the Riverchase Country Club. New officers are, from left, Pat Bendall, first vice president; Jeanne Frederick, president; Jo Ann Weber, corresponding secretary; and Roberta Atkinson, treasurer.

During the lunch, a check for $10,000 was presented to library director Linda Andrews from Friends president Jeanne Frederick. The money was Photo special to The Journal raised from Friends Bookstore sales.

Health and Wellness conference May 4 in northwest Arkansas, where Walmart’s headquarters are.

He was selected for the award from more than 100 optometrists in the region based on leadership when serving his profession and contributions to the community.

LaRussa has worked as an optometrist at the Walmart Vision Center for 12 years. Prior to joining Walmart, he worked at the Norway Ophthalmologist Clinic in Birmingham.

He holds an optometry degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry and was Walmart’s 2006 National Optometrist of the Year.

LaRussa and wife Christine have five children: Gabriella, Emily, Frankie, Anna Rose and Christopher.

VHHS Student Chosen for BUTI Program

Edward Winston Fortsman of Vestavia Hills is participating in the 45th season of the prestigious Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI).

Fortsman has studied piano

for 12 years. A senior at Vestavia Hills High School, he is the son of James and Edwina Winston Fortsman.

Each summer, BUTI invites a select group of gifted high school musicians to the Tanglewood grounds for its training programs for orchestra, voice, wind ensemble, piano, composition and harp. The institute also includes workshops for individual instruments and chamber ensembles.

Led by Director Phyllis Hoffman, BUTI is considered one of the most prominent summer music programs for high school students in the U.S. With auditions held in eight cities this year, 811 students applied and auditioned for 338 seats in the program.

This year’s accepted students represent 38 states and 11 foreign countries, including Korea, China, Israel, Germany, Chile, Mexico and Singapore.

Fortsman will have the opportunity to work with members of the BSO, BU faculty and world-renowned visiting artists. ❖

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8 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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Good Art and Good Food for Good Causes Tom Robey, chef at The Veranda on Highlands ...

Ila Faye Miller with Courtney Miller and Julie Miller, who were pulling double duty as daughters-in-law and volunteers, at the 21st Annual Art From the Heart Benefit.

The 21st annual Art From The Heart ...

benefiting Studio By The Tracks was July 18, at the B&A Warehouse. Funds raised from the event provides art classes to children in residential treatment with emotional conflicts and adults with autism, Asperger’s or mental illness.

Michael Hall, who has attended Studio art classes for five years, created the image for this year’s invitation.

Around 500 people attended bidding on artwork donated by local artists as well as art done by Studio artists (who receive 60 percent from the sale of their work). John Miller’s piece, “My Father’s Stadium,” sold for $2,400, which was the most any piece brought the entire evening.

Live auctioneers were Bill Mudd more photos at and Joe Mays.

Some of the local artists donating were: Frank Fleming, Arthur Price, John Lytle Wilson, Byron Sonnier, David Self, Liz and Thad Rybka, Brad Morton, Laurie Max, Cathy Phares, Debbie Moore, Amy Soverow, Longin Soverow, Haley Miller, John Willson Miller, Alley Bulka, Tracy Martinez, Gary Chapman, Clayton Colvin, Wendy Gamble, Barbara Hirschowitz, Megan Kimber, Jessica Patmon, Scott Stephens, Scott Bennett, Michael Bonadio and Chris Lawson.

Board members attending: Lee Marks, Cilie Cowin with Jamie, Bill Stone, Ben Burford with Jean, Janice Hall with Oscar, Elizabeth Scribner and Charlie, Carolyn Vizzina and Chris, Paul Ware with Joanna, Leila Watson with Robert and Ashley Spotswood with Bob. Junior Board members volunteering were Lily Ingram, Henry Long, Katie Alexander, Brandy Burchfield, Victoria Kimerling, Frances Ellen Byrd, Katherine Klyce, Thomas Nelson, John Romano, Courtney Andrews, Katie Rutledge, Elizabeth Sanfelippo, John Romano and Hansell Smith.

Among those in attendance were: Miller and Frances Gorrie, Sandra Storm, Margot Shaw, Phil and Miller Piggott, Louise Walton, Beverley Harrell, Gordon and Gibson Lanier, Jr., Don and Anne Plosser, Virginia Davis, Bill and Mary Reid Fisher, Susan Colvin,

Photos Courtesy Ben Miller

Above, David Martin holds the piece he won in the silent auction, Lanette Parker’s “Christ.” Below, Studio By the Tracks artist Inè Orihuela gives the thumbs up for good times at Art From the Heart with her mother Ana.

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Sonny Resha, Celina Miller, Ann and Marshall Garrett, Rhonda Brennan, Lulu and Jim Abernathy, Dottie and Steve Pak, Jim and Elizabeth Noles, Jim and Pam Prestwood, Noel and Lynn Spicer, Michael and Tamara Sansbury, Joe and Rosalie Giattina, Danny and Karly Martin, David and Nicole Martin, Jean and Ed Covington, Jim and Alison Gorrie, Jim and Ellen Walker, Ted and Leah Taylor, Mary Louise King, Shirley Fagan, Emily Krenkel, Kirk and Betsy and Abernathy Volunteers included: Mary Roth, Merrilee Challiss, Philip Boyd, Sara Jones, Mia Fetterman, John and Julie Miller, Ben and Courtney Miller, Stacey Bridewell, Alicia Hubbard, Nick Punch, Ben Knox, Hannah Ware, Amy Fall, Leslie Boozer, Alice Fisher, Lane and Bo Butler, Matt Butler, Lyn Cosby, Sarah Cooper, Alex McClurg and Molly Gutman. ❖

and 2009 Iron City Chef winner, holds title again, as the 2010 winner. Robert Kamm, of Ross Bridge Resort and Spa was a close runner-up in the tightly contested event, presented for the second year by the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club.

Cliff Holt of Little Savannah, and Angela Schmidt, of Chef U, also vied for the trophy skillet and honor. Robey’s sous chef, Meredith Martin, a student at Jefferson State’s Culinary Institute, won a $1,000 scholarship for her participation in preparation of the winning recipes.

Attendees enjoyed gourmet dishes, tasted wines from Western Supermarket and bid on an array of prizes. Black pearls and a beach and spa vacation were more photos at among items raffled.

Tables were decorated with orchids, and balloons in Rotary colors floated above the serving stations. Sweet Licks provided swing and Dixie music.

Jefferson State Culinary Institute’s director, Joseph Mitchell, was active in the evening’s direction.

Among Rotary members involved in event arrangements were Scott Huner, Vestavia Rotary’s president, Kent Howard, Josh Watkins, Craig Kirby, Mona Fisher and Ed Davidson.

Among the many attending were: James E. and Debra Robinson, Stan and Jane Huner, Phillipe and Trisha Cyr, Martha and Ray Hester, Stan Huner Jr. and Becka Martin, Steve and Karen Odle and Erin Odle, Cindi and George Gammill, Scott Jones, Ty and Debbie Evans, Otis MacMahon and his grandson, Evan Wagstaff, Mary Michael and Ashley Neese, Greg Ruff and Mona Fisher, Don and Susan Casey, Scott and Sherry Huner, Iradj Sooudi, Stacy Berthon, Fran and Kathy Buchan, Shannon and Mark Polson, Carolyn and Harry Puryear and Peter Kirchikov.

Charities receiving contributions from the event include Rotary International’s “End Polio Now!” campaign and the Vestavia Hills Education Foundation. ❖

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The Veranda on Highlands Chef Tom Robey, left, was the winner of the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club’s Iron City Chef Competition, and Ross Bridge Resort and Spa Chef Robert Kamm was runner-up.

Photos Courtesy Angie Holder of MomenTaker Photography

Volunteering at the Iron Chef competition were Elizabeth Drummond, left, and Tara Johnston.

Having a good time at the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club’s Iron City Chef Competition were from left: Greg Ruff, Mona Fisher and Don and Susan Casey.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 9

SOCIAL Taylor, corresponding secretary; Joan Hull, treasurer; Lucianne Pugh, historian; Kay Savage, past president; and Anne Gibbons, parliamentarian.

Mrs. Savage presented each of the board members who served with her this year with a monogrammed photo album. Mrs. Ellis presented Mrs. Savage with a gift from the society in appreciation of her leadership as president during the past year. Carolyn Reich gave the invocation preceding the brunch. Laura Ramsay coordinated plans for the brunch.

to support and celebrate their sisterhood by forming an alumnae chapter for the Greater Birmingham area. An organizational meeting is set for Aug. 21 at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook.

Registration and refreshments will be at 10 a.m. followed by a meeting at 10:30 a.m. Delta Zeta initiates from any college or university are invited to attend.

Founded in 1902, Delta Zeta is now the second largest sorority in the U.S. Planning the alumnae chapter organization are Carol Medders, chairman; Margaret Purcell, Delta Zeta state alumnae chairman; Ginger Shurett

LaRue; Lindsey Smith; Rebecca Kelly Cheek; and Kristen Leonard Roberson, president of the Tuscaloosa Alumnae Chapter.

For more information, e-mail dzbirmingham@bellsouth.net.

A spring day and the Cherokee ...

Bend home of Rosemarie and Dr. Jerome Ippolito provided the setting on May 12 for the finale to the 2009-10 year for the Antiquarian Society of Birmingham.

Retiring President Kay Savage called on Dr. Doris Wayman to install the new officers. Serving in 2010-11 are Jane Ellis, president; Judith Hand, first vice president; Gail Pugh, second vice president; Nan Teninbaum, recording secretary; Rebekah

Zeanah, Catherine Schiller, Linda Stewart, Beth Woodward, Gail Pugh, Frances Wheelock, Margaret Northrup, Martha Dorsett, Carolyn Riech, Jane Ellis, Anne Hollans, Barbara Baird, Trish Hunter, Celeste Waller, Nelda Osment, Judy

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Planning the organization of the Birmingham Delta Zeta Alumnae Chapter are, from left, front: Rebecca Kelly Cheek, Kristen Leonard Roberson and Lindsey Smith; back, Ginger Shurett LaRue, Margaret Photo special to The Journal Purcell and Carol Medders.

Birmingham area alumnae of Delta Zeta are invited ...

Antiquarians attending this annual event included Sylvia Patrick, Catherine Shepherd, Sara Jackson, Rebekah Taylor, Margie Williams, Harriet Maloof, Barbara Wall, Rose Lofton, Jean Vaughan, Sue Patrick, Lena Knight, Janis

I Love America Summer Celebration Series Presented by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation

n� Bring�your�ow or r� lawn�chai � �blanket�

At Wald Park

Friday, August 13

Free�� Admiss io to�all�ev n�� ents�

Free Swim 6:30-7:30 Children’s Activities by First Baptist Church of Birmingham 6:30-7:45 Business Expo 6:30-8:00 Vestavia Hills High School Band 7:00 Movie*- for details please visit www.vestaviahills.org

*Movies will begin at dusk-Approximately 8:00 PM

Concessions Available for Purchase

Many Thanks to All Our Sponsors

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Silver Acton Road Pediatrics, LLC * Advanced Mower West * Balance Chiropractic Brookdale Place University Park * Ruby Cade, CPA * Cahaba Heights United Methodist Church Champion Cleaners * Digital Trends Corporation * First Baptist Church of Birmingham Kwik Kopy Printing~Vestavia * Promotional Creations * Rollingwood Apartments Roofing & Painting Contractor~Oswaldo Sialer * Till, Hester, Eyer & Brown, P.C. Vestavia Hills Fitness Together * Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church * Vestavia Pediatrics

Please Note: No Pets Allowed

10 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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DAW G DAZE and

FLEA MA R KET Saturday August 21st in Crestline Village MOUNTAIN BROOK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 32 Vine Street Mountain Brook, Alabama 35213

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 11

Dawg Daze & Flea Market August 21

MOUNTAIN BROOK SPORTING GOODS

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Savings of at least 50% Under the Tent at the Flea Market starting at 8am!

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Advanced Weight Loss Clinic

12 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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“Weight Loss Made Simple”

Advanced Weight Loss is our Ebenezer (something that reminds us of God’s help in a specific situation).

We started AWL in 2002, and the first couple of years were very difficult. We started off at a moderate pace but then slowed down so much that we couldn’t pay our rent or our workers; we only had two: the owner, Anita Gibson and one other worker. The company started debt free, and we did not want to accrue and debt because we were not sure if this would be a profitable endeavor. So, we decided to close. When we told our worker she said she knew that God was in this business and said she would work for free. She was able to work two months for free. After that short time, we finally started to grow.

We knew our expansion was because God’s unmerited grace (something we can’t earn but He willingly gives)!! We now have 24 locations and we will be opening the 25th on August 17th in McCalla. “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation of shifting shadow...”

James 1:17. this was definitely a gift from God. To God be the glory!

The owners of Advanced Weight Loss pretty much fell in to the weight loss business.

At the time, the weight loss industry was unclaimed territory; however our faith, hard work and dedication allowed us to grow into the company we are today. Everyday, we help people with their weight loss struggle, and we love what we do because we help change lives.

Among those attending the annual Antiquarian Brunch were from left: Rosemarie Ippolito, hostess; Laura Ramsay, brunch chairman; and Kay Photo special to the Journal Savage, president.

Long, Lucy Richardson, Kirke Cater, Pauline Fugazzotto, Louise Pinkerton, Doris Wayman, Carolyn Drennen, Helen Mills, Janeal Shannon, Anne Gibbons, Martha Bartlett, Judith Hand, Nan Teninbaum, and Kay Savage.

Antiquarians will meet again on the second Wednesday in October.

Members of the Camelot Club ...

enjoyed a summer party recently at the home of Gloria Woods.

Using a cooler of iced-down Cokes and an array of finger foods, Pat Bendall and her committee created a festive table.

Other members of the committee were Gloria Woods,

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Mary Ann Prewitt, Linda Kitchens, Lynn McDaniel, Betty Sue Jordan, Jeri Gray, Lin Halbrooks and Deloris Donegan.

President Norma Warren presented to all members an abstract of the Camelot Constitution, as amended over the past 45 years.

Other members in attendance were: Pat Brandstadt, Patti Braswell, Ginny Catalano, Patsy Cate, Audrey Cornutt, Carolyn Crowe, Kay Eddins, Betty Margaret Elliott, Tracy LeBerte, Gail McArthur, Mary Nelson, Sue Perry, Dot Renneker, Wade Repass, Sondra Richardson, Dianne Small, Judy Smith, Linda Stewart, Betty Thompson, Ann Upton, Norma Warren, Nancy Welch, Dolores Wood and Harriette Woodring.

The EyeSight Foundation of Alabama Board ...

Appreciation Dinner was May 25 at the Summit Club. The event ���� was held to thank trustees for their ������� ��������������������������������������������� Among those service and took note of one trustee attending � ������������������� in particular, Allen D. Rushton of the Camelot ������� ��������� Mountain Brook.

Club’s sumMembers of the board and ������������������������������������������������������������������ mer party ESFA staff honored him with the ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� were from Visionary Award, its highest service ����������������������������������������������������������������������� left: Pat honor.

Bendall, Rushton served as chairman of ��������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������� new memthe foundation’s grants committee ber Linda for the past eight years, presiding Stewart �������������������������������������������� and Gloria ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� Woods. �������������������������������������������������� Photo special to

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Honored at the EyeSight Foundation’s appreciation dinner was Visionary Award winner Allen Rushton with, from left, daughter Varina Hart, Kate Nielsen and daughterin-law Leigh Rushton.

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over the evaluation and review of hundreds of requests. He joined the board of the CEFH, the organization that preceded the EyeSight Foundation, in 1967, serving as its chairman from 1992-94, for a combined total of 43 years of service.

Rushton, who is stepping down as grants committee chairman, will continue to serve on the ESFA board of trustees as a member of the grants and executive committees. His father, the late Allen Dr. Rushton Sr., also served on the Eye Foundation, Inc., board.

Other longtime trustees at the dinner included Hall Thompson and Marvin Engel, who have each served 47 years, and Billy Hulsey, 37 years, whose son Duncan was recently elected to the board.

Celebrating with Rushton were his wife Varina, son Yancey and his wife Leigh, daughter Varina Hart with husband Bob and their granddaughter Chaffin.

Also at the dinner were ESFA chairman-elect Steve Yoder and Louise, Lucy Thompson, Ruth Engel, ESFA executive director Torrey DeKeyser and husband Armand, Alison Gorrie, Billy and Millie Hulsey, Felix and Betts Drennen, Hartwell and Martha Davis and John and Beaty Coleman. Others there were Kate and Claude Nielsen, Koko and Stan Mackin, Lanning and Ricki Kline, Morris Hackney, Stephen Black with Jessica Shaver and ESFA director of programs Shirley Hamilton, along with Carly Hines and husband Bob. ❖

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 13

Poinsettia Debutantes at the first party of the season included, from left, front: Haley Bagwell, Hope Russell, Jordan Walker, Lauren Hammonds, A.K. Bruton, Kaitlyn Carlton and Alex Kingsford. Back: Ashley Moultrie, Maggie Sinclair, Mary Beth Williams, Ally Scofield, Sally Hughey, Curry Stevenson, Avery Gwaltney, Mary Coston Colquett, Kate Selman and Meg Cole. Not pictured are Michelle Moody and Natalie Photos special to The Journal Henninger.

Thirty-two young women have been ...

selected as this year’s Poinsettia Debutantes. Jordan Walker hosted the first party, “Debs and Diamonds: An Evening at Bromberg’s at The Summit,” July 22.

The dessert party included chocolate roulade, more photos at Key Lime tarts, Oreo truffles, lemon squares, fresh fruit with chocolate fondue, sparkling white grape juice and non-alcoholic chocolate martinis.

The centerpiece was green Dendrobium orchids. Store manager Terri Moore had staff members and Bromberg’s gemologist available to talk with guests about how to choose and determine the quality of diamonds. ❖

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�������������������������� Poinsettia Debutantes kicking off the season at a dessert party included, from left: Alex Kingsford, Mary Coston Colquett and Avery Gwaltney.

Winners of the 2010 Jefferson County Queen Pageant are front row from left: Jordan Casey, petite queen, and Cydney Lauren Fields, little queen. Back row, from left are: Catherine Angelo, teen queen; Shiann Brooke Harper, junior queen; and Jodie Pond, queen.

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14 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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The practice opened its doors on October 29, 2009, but the idea was conceived many years ago when I was growing up in New Orleans. I was fortunate enough to have a neighbor who was a dermatologist and served as an inspiration and a mentor to me through medical school and to this day. It was during medical school that I envisioned a dermatology practice that was well-rounded in scope, providing comprehensive and holistic skin care to all.

During residency at UAB, I was encouraged to develop my ideas and hone my skills to make the dream a reality. As a resident of Homewood, I was excited to become the first dermatologist in the city. Today, I’m proud to say that the Skin Wellness Center is able to help all of the people of Alabama to unlock the potential in their skin.

On my journey to becoming a physician, there have been many lessons along the way. While medical school provided the foundation for sound medical practice and dermatology residency refined my specialty knowledge, neither prepared me for the challenges of running a business. Fortunately, I worked with outstanding physicians in my early years of practice that aided me in learning the business side of practicing medicine.

There is nothing more exhilarating than controlling your own destiny. Being a business owner allows me to chart my own course to provide the best possible experiences for our patients.

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The 2010 Friends of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Junior Board are front row, from left: Elizabeth Hard, Ashley Gassner, Julie Price and Doug O’Toole; in back from left: Jason Crunk, Troy Rhone, Leah Fuller, Jennifer Shelor, Laurie Kramer, Dionne Burks and Miller Allen.

Not picture are: Michie Duke, Courtney Green, David Lorberbaum and Journal Photo by Laura McAlister Abe Odrezin.

The Friends of the Birmingham ...

Botanical Gardens also unveiled new memberships designed especially for young professionals and college students.

The Junior Board is tasked with creating an annual event at Birmingham Botanical Gardens that will serve as both an awareness campaign and a fundraiser.

The group began making plans for an event in 2011 at its most recent meeting on July 20.

The Junior Board was created

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Among guests at a Gallery Party to preview Picasso Pets artwork were, from left: Kitty Terry, Hand-in-Paw executive director; Bob McKenna, one of this year’s featured artists; and volunteer Terri Jones.

Photos special to The Journal

earlier this year to raise awareness among young professionals Botanical Gardens Junior Board for The Gardens’ events and recently hosted YPBirmingham’s education programs.

Monthly Mingle at The Gardens Nominations for The Junior Café by Kathy G. More than Board are accepted all year and 150 young professionals came will be voted on by the current to the free event, which featured board at a meeting in October. tapas, drink specials, a networkAnyone interested in nomiing game to break the ice and nating themselves or a colgiveaways. league should contact Public Friends of Birmingham ���� Relations Coordinator Michael ������� ���������������������������������������������Hansen at (205) 414-3960 or Among those at mhansen@bbgardens.org; more � ������������������� the Friend’s of information is available at www. ������� ��������� the Birmingham bbgardens.org.

Botanical Gardens ������������������������������������������������������������������ Junior Board and ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������� YPBirmingham party were from ��������������������������������������������� left: Tamara Archer, ����������������������������������� local musician Aug. 14 at the Cahaba Grand Peanut, Kathy G. �������������������������������������������� Conference Center. In anticipation Mezrano and Anne ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� of the main event, Hand-In-Paw Rast. �������������������������������������������������� recently hosted its Gallery Party, Photo Special to the Journal where the artwork and sculptures ������������������������������������ that will be aucmore photos at tioned off during Picasso Pets were revealed for the first time.

This year’s Gallery Party was at the Arthur Price Gallery in Pepper Place.

At the party were members of the Hand-In-Paw board of directors, advisory board, junior board (known as SoHIP) and staff. Also there were Picasso Pets sponsors, artists and presenters. Visit www. picassopets.com for information about the event and ticket purchases.

Hand-In-Paw is celebrating its 10th annual Picasso Pets ...

OTMJ.COM

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Angie and Amanda Martin standing next to their painting that their French Bull Dog, Henry, helped to paint with local artist Lila Graves.

Children’s Arts Guild honored local ...

businesses and individuals at a luncheon reception June 30 at the Children’s Dance Foundation building.

Guests were given a tour of the facilities and viewed the engraved plaques that will be on display at each of the Heaven’s Hero sponsored sites, which are The Bell Center, Avondale ElementaryEnglish as a Second Language program, YWCA Kids Corner, YWCA Summer Camp, Unter Cerebral Palsy-Hand in Hand, My Place-Birmingham Coalition for the Homeless and UAB Engel

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 15

Therapeutic Preschool.

Children’s Arts Guild members leading the fundraising efforts this year were: Allison Ingram, president; Greer Cotton, fashion show chairman; Casey Horn, fashion show co-chairman; Betsy Lefkovits, fundraising chairman; and Tiffany Polmatier and Amy Williams, fundraising co-chairmen.

Several members of the 1940 class of ...

Lakeview Grammar School celebrated its 70th reunion April 2830. Minnie Rosenbloom, known as Miss Minnie taught the class of 1940 for the 1936-1940 period.

The 23 students in her class were chosen from different sections of Birmingham.

Seventy years after leaving Lakeview classmates still cherish the deep friendships and inspiring lessons from Miss Rosenbloom.

The reunion was spearheaded by alumni, Bob Wesson of Birmingham who acted as a selfappointed tour guide to show the former Alabamians how much Birmingham has changed.

It has been the memories of the unusual teacher and the bonds of friendships created along the way that resulted in the reunion of a class that graduated 70 years ago.

The Greystone Ladies Club hosted ...

its first Spring Fling in April at the Greystone Golf and Country Club.

Members and guests enjoyed music and dancing, casino games, food and karaoke. Ruben Studdard’s former band, “Just A Few Cats,” entertained the group with live music and dancing in one room, while Dee Hutsler provided karaoke and singing in the clubhouse trophy room.

Among those attending were Butch and Deborah Flatt, Wayne and Debbie Benson, Larry and Carol Meyers, Mark and Carolyn Haynes, Robert and Julie Kim, Bill and Pam Elsey, Mark and Brenda Sheehan, Jim and Tina Douglass, Charles and Wilma Thompson and Tom and Channing Carder.

Others there were Brad and Mary Rankin, Raymond and Sherry Best, Ron and Shirl Ward, Lanier and Jeannie Johnson, Scott and Denise Shephard, Larry and Mindy Boggs, Bobby and Elaine Hughes, Bill and Millie Midlik, Donna Francavilla and Tony and Kathy Jones.

More party-goers were Nancy Nelson, R.E. and Mary Nelson, Tony and Alice Ellison, Mark Miehle, Thomas and Sharon Lager, Keith and Patti Stahlhut, Kirk and Alicia Cuevas, Kristin Perkins and Rich and Loyce Bares.

Wilma Thompson, Carolyn Haynes and Deborah Flatt organized the event. ❖

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With a check for the Children’s Dance Foundation are, from left: Kerri Windle, incoming Children’s Arts Guild president; Greer Cotton, fashion show chairman; Linda Friedman, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP; Diane Litsey, director of the Children’s Dance Foundation; Amy Maher, Drs. Rohner and Maher Pediatric Dentistry; David and Kristin Carpenter, Borland Benefield PC; Sonthe Burge, Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society; Denisa Keith, First Commercial Bank; Amy Williams, fundraising co-chairman; and Allison Ingram, guild Photo special to The Journal president.

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On the steps of Lakeview Grammar School from left are: Janie Lou Aikens Ward, Bob Wesson, Sylvia Bonfield Slatin, Bill Jarrard, Betty Photo special to the Journal Jean McLaughlin Crum and Paul . ���� ������� � �������

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16 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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JOU RNAL

Home Renovations: From the Inside Out

Earth, Wind and Sky Gorhams Live the High Life in Their Hilltop Garden Overlooking Homewood

BY DONNA CORNELIUS JOURNAL FEATURES WRITER

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they decided to continue. While touch-ups like fresh paint and hardwoods were done throughout almost the entire house, the kitchen underwent the biggest change.

“When you have three kids grow up in a kitchen, it basically gets destroyed,” Jack said. “It just needed to be redone, and we had always

ardens often are serene retreats – places to escape from the world and say “ah.”

A Vestavia landscape renovation, however, is more likely to elicit gasps of amazement than sighs of relief.

Bob and Katherine Gorham’s new garden was designed to take advantage of its lofty perch on Vestavia Drive.

The eye is drawn down into the valley below and up to the ridge of Red Mountain, where Vulcan raises his torch in the distance.

The garden is actually across the street from the Gorhams’ house, Katherine said, adding that most of her neighbors also own the property opposite their houses.

Since buying their home in 1999, the Gorhams have become old hands at changing things up to accommodate their family of six. The kitchen and master bedroom got immediate attention.

“Then several years ago, we moved out and did a major renovation,” Katherine said. “We pretty much gutted the house, and it took about a year.”

Finally, it was time to focus on the hilltop garden.

“We had a terrace there, but it was pretty rundown,” Katherine said. “We didn’t spend a lot of time over there. But we knew we’d do more with it one day.”

Nicholas, page 17

Gorham, page 18

The Nicholas family kitchen renovation reflects their love for cooking and dining with state-of-the-art appliances and lots of counter space.

Family-Friendly Update

Journal photos by Emil Wald

At this Hoover home, a simple change leads to a super transformation

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

W

hen Margaret and Jack Nicholas started a renovation project on their home about four years ago, they thought it would be fairly simple and would right something that had just been wrong to them for too long.

That “wrong” was a small powder room oddly located right across from the family’s formal dining room.

“That’s basically what started it all,” Margaret said. “We just couldn’t deal with having to see it anymore from the dining room. It was just right there.”

They began with relocating the powder room to the other side of the house and making the existing space a cedar closet, but they soon realized they were far from finished when it came to remodeling their Hoover home overlooking Southlake.

Margaret and Jack built their home in 1991. It was their first time to purchase a home, and Margaret was pregnant with their first child. Now, they have three children. The oldest, Renée, is 18, Jack is 16 and Lauren is 11.

Needless to say, the family’s needs changed over the years. So once the remodeling started, Margaret said,

Standing on the porch outside the kitchen are from left: Kathy Owens, Lauren, Renée, Margaret and Jack Nicholas.

The Gorhams transformed their Vestavia Drive garden to be a place for the whole family.

Left, Katherine Gorham stands with her daughters, Mary Kate, left, and Anna Frances, in the garden.

Journal photos

by Emil Wald

MORE at OTMJ.COM: See more photos from these renovations as well as before and after pictures and tips on practical yet pretty plants.

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Nicholas

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 17

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From page 16

planned on doing a total transformation.”

The family loves to cook, and the kitchen is definitely the heart of the house. With three active kids, they also needed plenty of storage.

“They have really busy lives, and the kitchen just had to be redone in order to make changes,” said Kathy Owens of Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, who helped the family with the remodeling. “They wanted something beautiful that was in keeping with their home.”

When it came to choosing the colors and flooring for their new kitchen, the couple sought the help of interior decorator Beth Richardson. Since the family loves the outdoors, they wanted to keep the look somewhat natural and fresh.

For the walls, they went with Benjamin Moore’s Hampshire Gray, and they replaced the white ceramic tile floors with a larger, random-pattern porcelain tile.

As for the cabinets, Jack knew exactly what he wanted – a wellknown, trusted brand, so they went with Wood-Mode.

“One of the nice things about (Wood-Mode) is that 10 years down the road when you have a door break or something falling off, a company that has been in business for a while can replace it easily,” he said.

The cabinets along the walls are a light off-white with a tile backsplash, and the couple chose a knotty cherry wood for the large island in the center of the kitchen. Both the wall cabinets and the island have polished granite surfaces.

“They really love the outdoors and nature, so it seemed nice to have the natural-looking island,” Owens said. “The knotty cherry kind of brings a natural element back into the room.”

Since the family is fond of the outdoors and is constantly coming into the kitchen from the backyard pool and lake, a small mudroom was added off the backdoor entrance to the kitchen.

Margaret said it’s great for storing the kids’ athletic equipment and school gear.

Another feature she loves in her new kitchen is the pantry.

The flip-out cabinets actually allow for more storage than before, even though the space is slightly smaller after the renovation, Margaret said.

Since the entire family does like to cook, top-of-the-line appliances were an important addition. They kept the location of most major appliances the same but upgraded to stainless steel models, including a Wolf gas range and cooktop and Sub-

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The backsplash with tile and grape leaves gives the Nicholas kitchen a Journal Photo by Emil Wald Mediterranean look.

Zero refrigerator.

“We got the nicer ones hoping we wouldn’t have to replace them anytime soon,” Margaret said. “And we all love to cook.

All three of our children love to cook. We’re very much into nutrition and love healthy food.

This is just a gathering place for us.”

Another gathering place for the family, especially the kids, is the basement. They left it unfinished when they built the house but decided it was time to finish it while their kids were still young.

“Otherwise, it’d just be a place for me to hide out and watch football,” Jack said.

The basement is now a sort of game room area for the family.

They added slate floors through-

out as well as a full bath and a kitchenette. The main room in the basement is for watching TV, and the other room is for games ������ like ping pong and air hockey. ������� “You know they say you don’t � really get much from a basement in a house, but to me, you can’t ������� put a price tag on it,” Margaret said. “The kids really have a lot of fun down here.”

Other renovations to the Nicholas house included replacing the deck as well as replacing the Dryvit, a synthetic stucco product, on parts of the outside of the house with stone.

In all, the updates took the couple almost two years, but they said it’s been well worth it.

“I’d say it was tolerable,” Jack said. “I just think we’re happy it’s all done, and we’re quite pleased with the results.” ❖

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Managed

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18 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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Brass Bed

The Gorhams had a fire pit added to their outdoor garden, which makes the area a great gather spot on cool nights. Below, the waterfall was another addition to their garden.

Gorham

Journal photos by Emil Wald

From page 16

The Gorhams called in Andy Burris, owner of Andy’s Landscape Services, and landscape horticulturist Sean Stewart to make a detailed game plan.

“We sat down with them and talked about what they wanted,” Sean said. “We found out how they wanted to use the space.” When landscaping changes will be extensive, he said, it’s wise to spend time making a sound plan before construction begins.

After learning that the Gorhams wanted not just a beauty spot but a functional spot for family fun and for parties, the crew from Andy’s set to work.

First, they removed stones from an old pathway.

“It was at the end of the property and kind of swooped around to the patio,” Sean said. “We put the new pathway on an axis with the front door of the house.”

The stones from the path were used to enlarge the existing patio.

“If we’d mixed new stones with the old ones, you’d see a seam,” Sean said.

Retaining walls, with sandstone capstones and stacked moss rock facing, do double duty by providing plenty of seating for guests. A waterfall splashes into a koi pond that’s nestled under a natural outcropping of rock, and a fire pit is a popular place even in the summer.

Katherine had an important request.

“I wanted the garden to be low maintenance,” she said.

Sean chose plants accordingly. His selections also had to withstand the elements.

“There’s about a 10 degree difference in temperature up here,” he said. “The site gets full sun all day long and pretty much has to take the brunt of hot and cold weather.

“We put in red Knock Out roses, ‘Frost

Since 1973, the Mantooth Family has brought to Alabama a rare and ever-evolving collection of the very best in fine linens, handcrafted furniture, lighting and extraordinary art from all over the world.

“Our commitment to distinction, elegance, quality and comfort, are the foundations on which we built our business,” says Lynette Mantooth, with husband Larry, above.

“We are fully staffed by interior designers who have the talent, creativity and, most importantly, the passion to create the perfect atmosphere for the perfect home. It requires many years of devoted study in fashion, architecture, art and design in order for us to help your idea become reality. Your desired result begins with our passion to create with

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“Together, we can blend the right color combinations, with the right textures and the right eclectic mix of contemporary and classic furniture. The perfect idea that was in your head before you walked in our door has now become a work in progress ... a passion taking shape.

“We have always believed in the substance of beautiful things. In the magnitude of finer detail. The joy of surprise. And that laughter is as essential as a good night’s sleep. We know that comfort in its purest form should captivate all five of the senses.

That a little indulgence can be good for the soul ... And that true escape does not have to involve travel ... ‘it’s good to be home.’”

Brass Bed is located at 2813 18th Street South in Homewood and their phone number is 879-5474.

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Proof’ gardenias, Encore azaleas, Indian hawthorns and ornamental grasses, which are pretty much bullet-proof.”

The garden is almost always breezy, so a traditional sprinkler system wouldn’t have worked, Sean said.

“A lot of water would be lost because the wind would carry it,” he said. “We put in a drip irrigation system, which is out of sight and very efficient.”

In July, the Gorhams celebrated Independence Day in their open-air garden, inviting a crowd to share their bird’s-eye view of the Thunder on the Mountain fireworks show. But they don’t wait for special occasions to enjoy the space with children Bo, who’s 16; Price, age 15; Mary Kate, 13; and Anna Frances, 9.

“I really like it,” said Mary Kate. “My friends and I go over and roast marshmallows at the fire pit.”

“I like the fire pit, too, and the waterfall,” added Anna Frances.

The family’s looking forward to garden get-togethers this fall – and beyond to next summer.

“For a while, we’d go to the beach for the Fourth of July every year,” Katherine said. “Now, the kids say we have to be home for the Fourth.” ❖

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Constance Longworth Collection

Constance Longworth Collection is a full service furniture dealer, also specializing in beautiful chandeliers, rugs, lighting and accessories. With special detail also to wonderful bedding and linens.

“I have been an international designer for over 30 years, opened my first store in Sarasota, Fla. in 1996, my second on Highway 280 in Birmingham in 2007 and now my third, located at 2408 Canterbury Road,” says Constance Longworth, above.

“I have designed for royalty and diplomats. Have designed buildings from the ground floor to the finished interiors, both commercially and personal homes.

“I am excited every day to open the door

of my wonderful store, and to have had the opportunity to get a store front in Mountain Brook Village is a delight indeed! I love what I do, love the excitement of clients when they get just what they want for their homes. And also love the joy of getting to know all the people on the level of helping with something as personal as their homes.

I always strive to make sure that everyone is completely beyond a doubt happy with their purchases from my store.

“The business that I love changes year to year, but one thing is always for certain, if the client stays headed towards the traditional, they will always have their monies worth for years and years to come.”

Constance Longworth Collection is located at 2408 Canterbury Road, Mountain Brook Village and their phone number is 803-4040.

A Dealer of Fine Furniture:

• Chandeliers • Lighting, Linens and Bedding

Accessories, NDI Floral, Custom Window Treatments • Office Furniture • Courtesy to Designers Commisions paid with sale.

CONSTANCE LONGWORTH COLLECTION �������������������� ���������������������������������

bagatelle

Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery

Charlie Thigpen has a passion for creating unique and inspiring landscape designs along with a love of gardening and teaching it to others. He brings this knowledge and inspiration to all who visit his retail store at Pepper Place. Together with his wife Cindy, they opened shop in the winter of 2009 and have been hard at work bringing their customers interesting living plants, plus unique products that are botanical and nature related.

They offer a variety of indoor and outdoor plants from herbs to orchids and ferns to fig trees plus the containers in which to grow them.

“Besides plants, one of our most popular items has been the handmade hypertufa leaves which have been purchased for décor both indoors and out” says Charlie, above. “Who knew? I just started making them when I was at a crossroads with my career and everyone loves them!”

“Ideas really are Charlie’s specialty” Cindy says. “He sees everyday objects, whether leaves, branches or even bottles, in a way that only an artist can and turns them one-by-one into unique creations that grace the store.

“There is a strong design community here at Pepper Place, and we are so happy to be in the middle of it all! One customer told us that we have a ‘feel-good’ shop which we took as the highest compliment.”

Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery is located at 2805 2nd Ave South, Pepper Place at the Courtyard Garden Entrance and their phone is 328-1000.

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Drexel/Heritage Lexington John Richard Maitland Smith Habersham American Drew Lea Childrens Furniture Pulaski

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 19

“bagatelle a ‘home concept store’ - a collaboration of home furnishings and linens from Yves Delorme and Mis en Demeure, a French design firm opened on July 14, Bastille Day,” says owner Jean Clayton, below. “Since we had missed our target date to open earlier, we thought it would be a great celebration day to open on the 14th! Yves Delorme linens have been a part of the Christine’s collection of fine linens for almost 20 years.

“When Yves Delorme expanded their line just recently, and wanted their stores to also represent them in this new endeavor, I knew I had no space for it.

When I expressed to my husband that I was getting a ‘message’ about renting the vacant space next to me, he responded by saying that he wasn’t getting that message! While I tend to be impulsive, this particular decision was given a lot of time, thought, and research. The new store is very different from any I have done over the last 38 years, but we are pleased with it.

“Luxury linen companies have found that in this more challenging retail climate they have had to get creative in new introductions.

We have seen, in all lines that we sell, an effort to maintain quality, but to offer merchandise at lower prices, and more sales throughout the year. And while many well-known designer brands have gone to China to cut production costs, none of our companies have.” bagatelle is located at 2415 Montevallo Road, Mountain Brook Village and their phone number is 414-6001.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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CHARLIE THIGPEN’S

Garden Gallery

harlie created a Garden Gallery for teaching and nurturing a love of gardening and art.

Come and be inspired.

Plants for Inside and Out Garden Supplies Pots and Urns Botanical Décor Gifts and Gift Arrangements Professional Landscape Design and Consultation

Pepper Place

2805 Second Avenue South

Birmingham, Alabama 35233 205 328 1000 GardenersGalleryLLC.com M-F 9-5 Sat. 7-3

20 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

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Hanna Antiques Mall Hoover Antique Gallery

Hanna Antiques Mall is the oldest antiques mall in Birmingham receiving the “Best Antiques Store” award most years.

“We have a large assortment of furniture from European, American, painted and the popular shabby-chic,” says owner Bonny Hanna Picard, below. “Representing 100 antique dealers and the versatility of our merchandise in a 27,000 sq. ft. building make Hanna’s unique. Thirty-five showcases show a variety of sterling, fine and vintage jewelry, pottery, and collectibles. We have everything for the home including rugs, chandeliers, vintage linens, china, paintings and mirrors.”

Celebrating 31 years in business Bonny started Hanna Antiques as a refinishing store in 1979. It evolved into the first antiques mall in Birmingham with just $3,000 and a lot of hard work and free help from family and friends.

“I started refinishing in a small basement of the house I lived in while I was going to school and working as a waitress at the old Rossi’s restaurant, downtown.

“The late Connie Nolan and Dr. Jack Nolan were just two of the angels the Lord sent me who told me to start an antiques mall. She was my first dealer and helped talk many other antiques dealers into renting a space, which had never been done before. Now 31 years later I cannot imagine a better job or career. I have grown up with many of my customers as well as my children. I even met my husband Sandy here.”

Hanna Antiques Mall is located at the corner of 7th Ave. S. and 25th St. and their phone number is 323-6036.

Hoover Antique Gallery is Over the Mountain’s and Jefferson County’s ‘traditional’ style antique mall. Owned by the Feagin family, it features hand picked merchandise from an array of 70 vendors. The variety reflects the vendor’s eclectic taste.

“We’ve been open here since December 2006,” says Chris Feagin, below. “Hoover is a great area for commerce because of its people, convenience and the number of visitors to the area. The area needed a business like this when we opened.

“This is a fun business to be part of. We have so many people involved that it creates a big ‘extra’ family.

“Satisfaction is the ultimate reason I am in this business. I love for the vendors and customers to enjoy this store. I totally enjoy taking something that needs a new home and finding someone to love it.

“Tradition, quality and value are important long-term,” says Chris. “Trends change quite frequently, as do customers’ tastes.

That being said, what goes around always comes back around. Antiques never really go out of style, and there is much to be said for the craftsmanship and materials used in the old days.”

Hoover Antiques is located at 3411 Old Columbiana Road (Hwy 31 at Patton Chapel Rd., So.) and their phone number is 822-9500.

Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc.

Kathy’s Designer Kitchens is a cabinet dealership offering cabinetry in all price ranges.

“We offer complete design and installation services,” says owner Kathy Owens, right. “We work with new construction and also offer complete remodeling of kitchens and baths.

“I have been in business for 20 years. After graduation from college with a major in interior design, I knew I wanted to focus on space planning so I became a certified kitchen designer.

“Most clients prefer to go with a classic design that will not date their home. Transition designs are also popular and always have a fresh look.”

“The design trends in our industry are evolving constantly. Most clients prefer to go with a classic design that will not date their home. Transition designs are also popular and always have a fresh look. We offer traditional and contemporary designs.”

Kathy’s Designer Kitchens is located at 1831 29th Ave. So. in Homewood and their phone number is 871-9880.

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HANNA ANTIQUE MALL

2424 7th Avenue South 323-6036

MON-SAT 10:00-5:00

Major Credit Cards & Layaways Accepted

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Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc.

1831 29th Ave. S. • Homewood, AL 205-871-9880 Kathy Owens, CKD, President

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The Nesting Place

The Nesting Place is a boutique gift and home decor shop located in Cahaba Heights (right behind the Summit).

“We’ve got everything you need to feather your nest from dishes and serving pieces to frames, accents, candles and table linens,” says owner Terri Jackson, right.

“Whether you’re hosting a special event or just enjoying a few friends, come to The Nesting Place to pick up a few decorating techniques to make your home a reflection of your sweet Southern heart. We believe it doesn’t take much to make people feel great in your presence ... just set the stage with some simple but thoughtful inspirations.

We opened in 2007 with one main objective – bring fresh, creative ideas to help you express yourself at home and with thoughtful gifts for those you love. We’re all looking for ways to save without compromising our lifestyle – so the trend we’re seeing is to create home environments that nurture and encourage conversation and laughter. And when you’re invited to someone else’s home, don’t show up empty handed. A small token of your appreciation is sure to put a smile on the face of your host acknowledging how grateful you are for them. After all, isn’t that what Southern Hospitality is all about?!

“Come see for yourself and experience what each new season has to offer!”

The Nesting Place is located at 3120 Heights Village in Cahaba Heights and their phone number is 970-9001.

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Noordermeer Antieks

Noordermeer Antieks in Homewood offers quality antiques with a concentration in 19th century American.

“We opened our doors in 1997 and now we’ve combined inventory with The Brown House Antiques formally located on Oxmoor Road.,” says Noordermeer Antieks owner Kit Jenkins. (Grand Opening to be announced at a later date). “This is a wonderful combination of quality 19th century antiques” Kit has a love for quality as well as practicality. Her parents came to Alabama with a group of 11 families sponsored by Avondale Mills of Sylacauga with the purpose to diversify farming in Alabama. Most of the families did not transplant well except the Noordermeers. Determination and perseverance helped the family of seven to overcome the obstacles encountered with such change.

Farming, independence and the ideals of discovery was an exact match for Kit to find a kinship with early American way of life. Hence her antique store steeping with character and history. Displaying examples of period furniture and objects waiting to tell the stories we all learned in school “Predicting trends is too much like predicting the future,” says Kit. “We either consciously or subconsciously try to predict how our lives will evolve. I feel like in a time of uncertainty people will lean toward a comfort zone with a feeling of calm and a more simple way of living. What better way than to surround yourself with 150-year-old furniture made by the hands of the artisan that in his spare time was trying to settle a country. If it lasted 150 years, chances are it will last another!”

Noordermeer Antieks is located at 731 Broadway St. in Homewood and their phone number is 870-1161.

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Olde World Acquisitions

“The ‘acquisitions’ are mainly antique and semi-antique Persian and Turkish rugs,” says owner, Sandra Deshazo, below, who has been in business for six years.

“Each one is woven by hand with distinctive sizes and colors.

Some are very fine, some newer, but you find good prices for great treasures.

“Now I devote the first part of the week to in-home visits for measuring or delivery,” says Sandra.

“I find it rewarding to work with a

“I find it rewarding to work with a client to find the right color and size, which makes each purchase unique and personal.” client to find the right color and size, which makes each purchase unique and personal.

“We have our biggest ever selection of pillows – some discounted 20 percent. We can special order seagrass, sisal and jute.

New shipments arrive each week.

Olde World Acquisitions is located at 2720 19th Pl. So. in Homewood and their phone number is 868-2832.

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Making Room for Change

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has joined us in order to bring you the best in fine antiques.

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731 Broadway Homewood • 870-1161 Tuesday-Saturday 10-5

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Tricia’s Treasures

“My how the time flies when your having fun! Summer is nigh over and school is back in session,” says Tricia Thomas.

“That means moms have time to shop again.YIPPEE!! And guess what awaits you at Tricia’s Treasures? Just about anything you can want – which includes mirrors galore, rugs, runners, chests, lamps, light fixtures, iron, architectural pieces, sideboards, game tables and accessories on top of accessories.

Tricia will be celebrating 27 years in the antiques business this October.

She has seen changes in the business over the years but says “classic pieces are forever classic.”

“Trends come and go and they are fun and can be mixed well with old stand-bys.

We try to have something for everyone,” says Tricia “and we love to mix but not match.

“It has been a great pleasure to know and serve our wonderful customers over the years and we are looking forward to the upcoming season, as it is the time we love to prepare our homes for family, friends and celebration. Come to see us soon.

“We’ll keep the light on!”

Tricia’s Treasures is located at 2700 19th Pl. So. in Homewood and their phone number is 871-9779.

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Urban Suburban Antiques

Urban SuburbanAntiques is Birmingham’s newest antique mall. Unlike most stores of this type, this one is not so traditional. It is in the Crestwood neighborhood, and like the neighborhood itself, reflects the eclectic tastes of the residents. It is vendor based, and at full capacity can house 50 plus dealers.

“Urban Suburban opened Aug. 3, 2010,” says owner Chris Feagin.

“It is the sister store of Hoover Antique Gallery.The space was Crestwood Antiques before and the neighborhood was saddened by its retirement. June and July were spent preparing the space and giving it a complete fresh look.

“Being in the antique business started as a family hobby. This is an awesome way to recycle pre-owned furnishings and decor, and that is the focus of this store. “‘Box’ store merchandise is easily available, but boring. People have more demands on their budgets and have to choose wisely how to spend their dollars.

“Everyone loves a bargain. Our goal is to appeal to everybody, but especially those who want to have some fun and be creative with their decor.”

Urban Suburban Antiques is located at 5514 Crestwood Boulevard in Crestwood and their phone number is 592-0777.

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urbansuburbanantiques @gmail.com

22 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

McCay-DeLoach

Mr. and Mrs. Steve Micheal McCay of Birmingham are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Kimberly Ann, to Gary Daniel DeLoach, son of Mr. Gary DeLoach of Trussville and Aubrey and Jeanne Garrison of Birmingham.

Miss McCay is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Arthur

Hurst-Branch

Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Michael Hurst of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Ashley Arenton, to Conner

Mathis-Killion

Dr. and Mrs. John Joseph Mathis III of Vincennes, Ind. are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Kathryn Jo, to Charles David Killion, son of Dr. and Mrs. Wayne Worden Killion Jr. of Birmingham.

Miss Mathis is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Joseph Mathis Jr. of Mission, Texas. and Mrs. Stanley Ward Berger of Nappanee, Ind. and the late Mr. Stanley Ward Berger. She is a

of Birmingham, and the late Mr. and Mrs. M.E. McCay of Pine Mountain.

She is a 2007 graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising, design and production. She is a member of Kappa Delta sorority.

Mr. DeLoach is the grandson of Mrs. Helen Landrum and the late Mr. Roland Landrum of Birmingham, Mrs. Genna Thorn and the late Mr. Charles Thorn of Birmingham, and the late Mr. Robert DeLoach of Birmingham. He is a 2007 graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, a 2010 graduate of Samford University with a master’s degree in business administration, and a 2010 graduate of Cumberland School of Law with a juris doctor. He is a member of Theta Chi fraternity, Beta Alpha Psi honorary fraternity, and Sigma Alpha Lambda national leadership and honors organization.

The wedding is planned for Aug. 21, 2010 at Canterbury United Methodist Church.

Scott Branch, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bradford Howard Bass of Auburn and Mr. Randy Lee Branch of Opelika.

Miss Hurst is the granddaughter of Mrs. Joseph Harrison Gasque and the late Mr. Gasque of Murrell’s Inlet, S.C. and the late Mrs. Beverly Blackwell Gasque of Birmingham and Mrs. Alfred Arenton Hurst and the late Mr. Hurst of Vestavia Hills. She is a graduate of Auburn University.

Mr. Branch is the grandson of Mrs. Coleman Cleveland Scott and the late Mr. Scott of Opelika and Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Jack Branch of Waverly. He is a graduate of Auburn University in Montgomery.

The wedding is planned for Aug. 28 at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church.

graduate of Vincennes Lincoln High School in Vincennes, Ind. and graduated cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in mathematics from Vanderbilt University where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She received a master of accountancy degree from Belmont University. Miss Mathis is an ERS senior consultant at Deloitte and Touche, LLP in Nashville.

Mr. Killion is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Worden Killion of Shoal Creek, and Mrs. Charles David Reever of Radcliff, Ky. and the late Mr. Charles David Reever.

He is a graduate of Indian Springs School in Birmingham and graduated cum laude from Vanderbilt University where he was president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

He received a juris doctor from the University of Richmond, where he was a member of the editorial board of the Law Review, Moot Court Board, and was the recipient of the T.C. Williams Scholarship Award.

Mr. Killion is an associate at Bass, Berry & Sims, PLC, in Nashville.

The wedding will be Sept. 4, 2010 at West End United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tenn.

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

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and Mrs. James Charles Wood Jr. of Chattanooga, Tenn.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ezra Lewis Autry of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. John Oscar DeWitt of Greensboro. Miss DeWitt is a graduate of The Altamont School.

She was presented at the 2003 Poinsettia Debutante Ball. Miss DeWitt is a cum laude graduate of Rhodes College, with a bachelor of science degree in English. While at Rhodes, she played on the varsity women’s tennis team for four years and was president of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She received her juris doctorate from Samford University, Cumberland School of Law, and served as president of the Class of 2008. While at Samford she also received a master of science degree in environmental management. Miss DeWitt is a member

of the Alabama State Bar and is employed in Birmingham.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Billy S. Leach of Birmingham, Ms. Lily Isaac Wood of Birmingham and the late Mr. James Charles Wood Sr. Mr. Wood is a graduate of The McCallie School in Chattanooga.

He received his bachelor of science degree in international studies and political science from Rhodes College. While at Rhodes Mr. Wood played on the varsity men’s soccer team for four years. He received his juris doctorate from Samford University, Cumberland School of Law. Mr. Wood is a member of the Alabama State Bar and is employed in Birmingham.

The couple will be married on Aug 21, 2010, at The High Hampton Inn and Country Club in Cashiers, N.C.

Susan and Barry Koretzky of Mountain Brook are delighted to announce the engagement of

their son, Brett Koretzky, to Lena Epstein, daughter of Donald and Marjory (Winkelman) Epstein of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Family and friends enjoyed an engagement celebration in April in Birmingham.

Proud grandparents of Lena are Margaret Winkelman and Robert Krause of Bloomfield Hills, Mich. Lena is also the granddaughter of the late Elsie and Eugene Epstein of Franklin, Mich., and the late Stanley Winkelman of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Brett is the grandson of the late Estelle and Isadore “Izzy” Eubanks of Birmingham and the late Edith and Sol Koretzky of New Orleans.

Lena is a 1999 graduate of

Detroit Country Day School.

She graduated cum laude with a degree in economics from Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass. in 2003. She received a masters of business administration from the University of Michigan. She is an owner and general manager of Vesco Oil Corporation, a family-owned oil distributorship.

Brett is a 1996 graduate of Mountain Brook High School and an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Auburn University with an advanced degree in management information systems in 2000. Brett is a senior business intelligence analyst with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

The wedding is planned for Aug. 21, 2010, at Temple Beth El in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Harbuck-Jones

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Scott Harbuck of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Leighton Owens Harbuck, to DeWitt Miles Jones, son of Dr. and Mrs. Miles Fredrick Jones of Point Clear.

Miss Harbuck is the granddaughter of Mrs. Edwin Charles Harbuck and the late Mr. Harbuck of Shreveport, La., and Mrs. Roland Clifford Smith III and the late Mr. Smith also of Shreveport. She is a graduate of the Capstone College of Nursing at the University of Alabama and is a member of Delta, Delta, Delta sorority. She was presented at The Ball of Roses.

Mr. Jones is the grandson of the late Dr. and Mrs. Ollie Oscar Jones of Fairhope, and Mrs. DeWitt Johnson Plyer and the late Mr. Plyer of Weogufka. He is a cum laude graduate of the Military College of South Carolina is a member of Kappa Alpha Order and Sigma Xi and was a fouryear letterman and captain of the Citadel football team.

Miss Harbuck is a pediatric oncology nurse at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C. Mr. Jones is an ecology research assistant at The Citadel.

The wedding is planned for Sept. 25, 2010.

Jones-Jett

employed with Somerby at 119 Greystone.

Mr. Jett is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. George E. Hyde of Greystone and Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Jett of Chelsea. He is a 2004 graduate of Briarwood Christian School and a 2008 graduate of the University of Alabama.

He is a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and is employed with Principle Pharmacy Group in Birmingham.

The wedding is planned for Sept. 18, 2010 at Shoal Creek.

DeWitt-Wood

Dr. and Mrs. William Eugene DeWitt of Birmingham are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Krista Leigh, to Robert Jordan Wood, son of Mr.

Epstein-Koretzky

Mr. and Mrs. Larry T. Jones of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Ashley Lauren, to Mr. Braxton Carter Jett, son of Mr. and Mrs Charles A. Jett Jr. of Greystone.

Miss Jones is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John F. Dodge of St. Louis and Mrs. Augustus Jones and the late Mr. Jones of LaVonia, Ga. She is a 2005 graduate of Bob Jones High School and a 2009 graduate of the University of Alabama. Miss Jones is

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Glaze-Gregory

Jennifer Kathryn Glaze and Jim Bart Gregory were united in marriage on April 10, 2010 in the English Garden of Old Waverly Golf Club in West Point, Miss. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Kathryn Cooke Glaze of Chelsea, and the late Mr. Timothy Charles Glaze.

She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Robert J. Williams, III and the late Mr. Williams of Orange Beach. and the late Mr. & Mrs. Ollie E. Glaze of Birmingham.

Hinds-Donaldson

Carey Martin Hinds and Brent Allen Donaldson were married May 15, 2010 at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church.

The Rev. Richmond Webster

Smith-Puckett

Lindsay Sevier Smith and Jason Carlisle Puckett were married June 26, 2010 at Independent Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Conrad C. Sharps and the Rev. Frank M. Barker Jr. officiated. A reception followed at Mountain Brook Club.

The bride is the daughter of

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 23

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Larry Gregory of Nanih Waiya, Miss. He is the grandson of Mrs. James O. Gregory and the late Mr. Gregory of Nanih Waiya, Miss. and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jim T. Jones of Morton, Miss.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was her twin sister Jessica Leigh Glaze of Birmingham.

Honorary bridesmaids were Elisha Jewel Blades of Jackson, Miss., Mary Katherine Cooke, the bride’s cousin, of Birmingham, Lori Ann Holland of Starkville, Miss., Jennifer Cooksey Prather of Starkville, Miss., and Cherish Marie Sansing of Oxford, Miss.

Ella Claire Gregory and Julia Marie Gregory, daughters of the groom, McKinley Kate Gregory and Mary Lee Gregory, nieces of the groom and Lucy Anne Kracke, cousin of the bride, served as flower girls.

The groom’s brother, James Brent Gregory, of Decatur, Miss. served as best man. Ushers were Kevin Pohl Cooke, the bride’s uncle, of Birmingham, Thomas Scott Isaac, the bride’s cousin, of Chelsea, Joshua Wade Quinn of Union, Miss.

and Michael Lancing Richey of Starkville, Miss.

The Rev. Carol Mead officiated the traditional Episcopal ceremony and was assisted by the Rev. Dennis Wilson. Scripture reading was provided by the bride’s grandmother, and Chrystal Williams Kracke served as the bride’s proxy. Given in marriage by her mother, the bride wore a champagne silk gown, accented with sheer cap sleeves and a plunging deep “V” shaped back neckline. Her gown was trimmed with scalloped Chantilly lace appliqués, and the bodice featured beaded lace appliqué over Point D’esprit, a silk band, and beaded flower appliqué.

The reception immediately following the ceremony took place at Old Waverly Golf Club.

Following a weekend in New Orleans the couple is at home in Starkville, Miss. where the bride is the vice president for tourism development at the Greater Starkville Development Partnership, and the groom is an assistant athletic director at Mississippi State University and a sports radio broadcaster for Learfield Communications.

officiated at the 6 p.m. ceremony.

Organist was Dr. James Dorroh.

A reception followed at Mountain Brook Club.

Parents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. William Lyle Hinds Jr. of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Max Bruce Donaldson of Enterprise.

The bride was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride as matron of honor was Susan Graham Matthews of Birmingham.

Bridesmaids were Jennifer Lambeth Hinds of Nashville, Tenn. and Brigid Thompson Hinds of Charlotte, N.C., sisters-in-law of the bride; Lindsey Reade Nobles of Nashville and Kaira King Catenacci, Catherine Heitz Marks and Elizabeth Childs Otto, all of Birmingham. Flower girls were Josephine Harris Hinds and Sarah Douglas Hinds of Nashville, nieces of the bride.

The father of the groom served as best man. Groomsmen were Adam Bruce Donaldson, brother of the groom of Wilson, Wyo., the bride’s brothers, William Lyle Hinds III of Nashville and Robert Gates Hinds of Charlotte, N.C., Michael Richard Ankerson of Winston-Salem, N.C. and George Duncan Hastie McMillan III, William Wakeford Rushin and Michael Larry Smith, all of Birmingham. Ushers were Thomas Treutlan Anderson of Enterprise, William Dominick Anderson of Fairhope, Jeremy Scott Franklin of St. Louis and Casey Ballard Loftin of Knoxville, Tenn.

Readers were the brothers of the bride. Crucifer was Elizabeth Turner Webster of Birmingham.

Following a wedding trip to Mexico, the couple is at home in Birmingham.

Mr. and Mrs. Lathrop Winchester Smith Jr. of Birmingham. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bland Wasson, the late Mrs. Jane Sevier Ingalls, the late Mr. Lathrop Winchester Smith all of Birmingham and the late Mr. William Manelius Cook II of Camden.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carlisle Puckett of Nashville, Tenn. He is the grandson of Mrs. Florence Mullins York, the late Mr. Clyde Marvin York and the late Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Bennett Puckett of Columbia, Tenn.

The matron of honor was Brannon Snodgrass Smith, sister-inlaw of the bride, of Austin, Texas.

Bridesmaids were Mary Bradley Hosch Anderson of Birmingham, Elizabeth Hays Moore of Nashville, Jean Hood Caldwell Whatley of Houston, Laura Ann Baker of Atlanta, Miller Beale Girvin of Arlington, Va. and Virginia Bradley Linzee of Stony Brook, N.Y. The

flower girl was Dorothy Ann Smith, niece of the bride, and the ring bearer was Lathrop Winchester Smith IV, nephew of the bride, both of Austin, Texas.

Program attendants were Margaret Burch Seibels of Birmingham, Abigail Nelson Humphrey of Nashville and Jennifer Lynn Klos of Oklahoma City.

The best man was Thomas Carlisle Puckett, father of the groom. Groomsmen were Jeffrey Thomas Puckett and John Michael York Puckett, brothers of the groom, Gary Michael Abbagnaro of Nashville, Lathrop Winchester Smith III, brother of the bride, of Austin, Texas and David Shaull Hollyday of Chattanooga, Tenn.

Ushers were Daniel Earl Dunn, Lee Jay Yancey, Timothy Howland Nichols and Todd Raymond Cruse, all of Nashville, Tenn.

After a honeymoon trip to Turks and Caicos, the couple lives in Nashville, Tenn.

Roy-Causey

Miss Jacqueline Marie Roy and Second Lieutenant Timothy Allen Causey were married May 22, 2010 at Shades Crest Baptist Church. Dr. Foust officiated. A wedding reception followed at Matt Jones Gallery.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Douglas G. Roy of Hoover. The groom’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Eugene W. Causey III of Ownings, Md. The bride was given in marriage by her father. She wore a trumpet style ivory gown. The veil she wore was previously worn by two of her bridesmaids and college roommates Lauren Griffin and Katie Calhan.

The bride also carried a bonnet-hand-

Williams-Gray

Emily Katherine Williams and Noah Timothy Kirk Gray were married on July 10 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Birmingham. the Rev. David Thompson and Dr. Dave Barnhart officiated. A reception followed at The Club.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. James Edward Williams Jr. of Birmingham. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Opal Eaton Vines and the late Dr. Jack David Vines of Birmingham and of Mr. and Mrs. James Edward Williams of Huntsville.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Marion Mixson Gray of St. Louis and the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Lilley of St. Louis and the late Mr. and Mrs. Julian Gray of Atlanta.

The bride was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride as her maids of honor were her sisters, Molly Anne and Margaret Alice Williams. Bridesmaids were Margaret McKenzie Beasley, Cameron Marie Carr, Jordan Jarvis Hughes, Kaylee

kerchief with her bouquet in memory and honor of Presliegh Isaminger.

Miss Elizabeth Corona, cousin of the bride of Vestavia Hills was the maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Mrs. Katie Burks Calhan, Mrs. Lauren Montgomery Griffin, Miss Natalia Grenett, Miss Collins Henderson, Miss Marli Prather, Miss Crystal Montgomery, of Hoover, Mrs. Trina Causey Nauman of North Beach, Md. and Mrs. Sara Causey Smith of Chesapeake Beach, Md., sisters of the groom. Flower girls were Miss Isabelle Causey of Lusby, Md. and Miss Abigayle Smith of Chesapeake Beach, nieces of the groom.

Second Lieutenant John Calhan II, of Owings, Md. was the best man.

Groomsmen were Mr. Benjamin Causey of Weston, Fla. and Mr. Andrew Causey of Lusby, Md., brothers of the groom. Mr. John Ragusa of Owings, Md. and Mr. Danny Ripple of Huningtown, Md., Mr. Brian Roy of Hoover, brother of the bride, Mr. Jarred Fricke of Hoover, Ensign Taylor Rives of Virginia Beach, Va., Mr. Christopher Kendig of The Colony, Texas and Second Lieutenant Brad Diedrick of Utah. The ring bearer was Mr. James Isaminger of Hoover.

After a wedding trip to St. Lucia, the couple lives in Pensacola, Fla. Clair Luttrell, Mollie Beth Morris, Sarah Norton Ross, Abby Owens Womack, and Lauren Rebekah Gray, sister of the groom. Lilley Gray Halloran, niece of the groom, served as flower girl.

Micah Peter Gray, brother of the groom, was best man. Groomsmen were Jamin Philip Gray, brother of the groom, David Henry Nall, Logan Madison McDonald, Samuel Stephen Moses, Scott Gregory Peters, Larry Ray Reed, Jesse Ryan Snow, Kyle Hannan Story, and Douglas Martin Vignes. Django Gray Halloran, nephew of the groom, was the ring bearer.

After a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the couple lives in Memphis, Tenn.

Coming soon: A new way to share your wedding story with OTMJ readers ... stay tuned! www.otmj.com

24 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

SCHOOL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

back to school 2010

Connecting with China

BY LAURA MCALISTER

Distance Learning Program Links Briarwood, Chinese Students through the Internet

17, Briarwood High their peers in China.

School students will Mosbaker spent be able to interact about 10 days this with students in China summer visiting China riarwood Christian to learn Mandarin, and meeting with eduSchool can’t take all the standard Chinese cators there to discuss its high school students language. Briarwood the program. He said to China. But thanks to a new Superintendent Barrett they are “extremely distance learning program, Mosbacker said the excited” about the it can bring a bit of China to class would be one of partnership. them. the first of more dis“I’ve basically When school starts Aug. tance learning opporbeen meeting with tunities to come at the city officials and other Briarwood Christian School Superintendent Barrett government officials, private school.

Mosbaker, left, shakes hands with Li Cun Gui, secre- university presidents, “The idea is to tary of the Municipal Committee of the CPC, during a deans and high school bring the content into visit to China this summer. They were discussing the leaders forming the the classroom, that we partnership between Briarwood and a Chinese High partnership,” he said. couldn’t normally do, School for a distance learning class. through distance learn“Everyone has been Photo special to the Journal ing,” Mosbacker said. really hospitable and “We’re starting with The school also is offering kind. I couldn’t have Mandarin Chinese because there Chinese and Latin I, II and III as asked for a better reception.

2831 Linden Ave. • Homewood has been significant growth in part of its distance learning proThey’ve been very enthusiastic.”

Mon. - Fri. 9am-5pm China economically, and we feel gram, but the Mandarin class will The course will be set up to 205.879.7011 it’s going to be a very important be the only one that will allow allow students in a classroom in www.littlelegacies.com skill to learn.” students to interact directly with China to talk in real time to students at Briarwood via the internet. Mosbacker said they would also interact through e-mail throughout the course.

He hopes students will learn �������������������������������� a lot about Chinese culture in ������������������������������������������������������� addition to learning the lan������������������������������������� guage. ����������������������������� “They (the Chinese stuBianca Sorcia Olivia Powers Grant Griffin Shane Martin Sofia Calma Cody Edwards Isaac Jacobsen Jorge Abelar Nicholas Spence Haley Powers Abby Griffith Avery Martin Sam Calma Patsy Elder Sarah Jacobsen Alex Agnew dents) will be able to exchange Beatrice Spencer Hayden Powers Austin Griffith Abigail Mashburn David Campbell Ren Elder Joseph Jacobsen Madilynn Albright ��������������������������������������� Cardwell Spencer Caroline Pruet Virginia Grisham Madison Matthews Mary Caroline Mary Morgan Elder Lacy Jeffcoat Hannah Alford interests and practice English, Katelyn Spencer Ross Pruet Trey Grooms Joshua Maxwell Campbell Maggie Elder Kate Jeffcoat John Ryan Alford ������������������������������������������ Aidan Springer Jessica Rafferty Gabrielle Grooms Kayla McAvoy Drew Campbell Ren Elder Morgan Jemison Daniel Alford and our students can practice JOURNAL EDITOR

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Mandarin,” he said. “They’ll also be able to learn the differences in the cultures.”

Mosbacker said the class would be taught by an online instructor fluent in both English

and Mandarin, who would likely be based somewhere in the U.S. The classroom at Briarwood would have a proctor fluent in both languages, as well.

In addition to the distance learning class, Mosbaker said Briarwood hopes to start a student/faculty exchange program with China, with some Chinese students possibly attending Briarwood this year.

“We’re working diligently to bring one high school student to Briarwood immediately to finish their last two years of high school,” he said.

Although this will be the first year Briarwood offers Mandarin through distance learning, Mosbaker said there has been interest in the course at the school. So far, about 30 students have registered for the course, which is being offered to students in grades nine-12.

He said the school plans to continue to add more distance learning courses not only for its students but also to students all over the nation.

“The distance learning initiative is really something we’re putting thousands of dollars into,” he said. “We think this will enhance and enrich the existing traditional classes. We plan to package our courses for other schools, so they also can have access. What’s really interesting is we have a large school in the Midwest already enrolling their students in our online program.” ❖

Primrose School at Liberty Park celebrated its grand opening July 10. The Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto Zaragoza attended the ribbon cutting and spoke of the impact the new Primrose School will have on the Vestavia Hills community. Primrose is an accredited, private preschool that offers educational child care to meet the needs of parents.

The Balanced Learning curriculum promotes learning readiness and character development for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Before- and after-school programs are also offered.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOL

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 25

ISS Web Site Wins International Award

Indian Springs School was named among the winners of the 2010 Communicator Awards, which were announced by the International Academy of the Visual Arts. The school won an Award of Excellence, the highest possible award, in the educational website category for its innovative site, www.indiansprings. org.

With thousands of entries received from across the U.S. and around the world, the Communicator Awards is the largest and most competitive awards program honoring excellence in advertising, corporate communications, public relations and identity work for print, video, interactive and audio.

The Communicator Awards is sanctioned and judged by the International Academy of the Visual Arts, which consists of media, advertising and marketing professionals.

SaraGrace Lackey, a student at Saint Rose Academy, was presented with a state flag in honor of her seventh birthday along with a certificate of recognition from Gov. Bob Riley. She also received a photo from the governor wishing her happy birthday. State Rep. Paul DeMarco, left, presented the flag, which flew over the state capitol, and photo to SaraGrace at her school and also addressed her first grade class.

Photo special to The Journal

Altamont Wins 2nd at National Contest

Coach Buck Crowe’s Scholars Bowl team from the Altamont School earned a perfect 6-0 record in the preliminary rounds and won second place at the recent Junior Nationals competition.

Sixth grader Harlin Brown, seventh graders Alok Deshane and Patrick O’Neal and eighth graders Will Pannell and Andy Vahle worked hard to get their team through the playoffs to the final round in the absence of captain Elizabeth Anne Brown, eighth grade, who left the tournament after Altamont clenched a playoff berth to participate in a school-sponsored trip to Africa.

The battle for the national competition began at Loyola University in New Orleans May 29. Eight teams of middle school students from across the country advanced to the semifinals at the National Academic Challenge.

Three of the semifinalist teams were Junior Nationals veterans, having competed in 2009.

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Altamont Scholars Bowl team members, with the National Academic Challenge’s Mike Mastandrea, are, from left: Harlin Brown, Andy Vahle, Alok Deshane, Will Pannell, Patrick O’Neal and coach Buck Crowe. Not pictured is captain Elizabeth Anne Brown.

Photo special to The Journal

ACE Cheerleaders Are National Champs

ACE All-Stars of Alabama, a competitive all-star cheerleading program based in Birmingham, recently won the Grand National Championship at the Athletic Championships in Destin, Fla. The ACE Apaches are a Junior Co-Ed Level 5 team consisting of athletes ages 9-14 from Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee. The squad received the highest score of the entire competition, beating high school and college-aged teams from across the nation.

The Apaches were coached by Ryan Hicks and Ryan Freeman. ❖

Primrose School at Liberty Park 1800 Urban Center Parkway Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35242

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ACE Team members include, from left, front: Isabel Bush, Jay Hollman, Mia Gage, Ansley Cross and Gracie Wilkes; Middle row: Deandre Townsend, Victoria Whitten, Holli Teige, Alayna Holbert, Ellen Coleman Edwards, Mekhi Mayfield and Cole Avans. Back: Ceara Gray, Mackenzie Lawry, Christina French, Maggie Beans, Devon Askins, Fredrika Goodgame, Chase Burton, Cassi Smith and Jordan Sutton.

Photo special to The Journal

Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School

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All rights reserved.

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26 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

SPORTS

The 2010 All State Lacrosse Teams

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Greater Birmingham Youth Lacrosse Association (GBYLA) recently selected the 2010 Alabama All State Lacrosse Team for the men’s and women’s teams.

Members of the 2010 Alabama Women’s All State Lacrosse Team are, first row, from left: Amanda Choat (John Carroll), Ashton Cole (Bob Jones), Krissy Mauro (Hoover), Victoria Sexton (Hoover) and Madeline Brawley (Spain Park). Second row: Taylor Bates (Hoover), Ellie Mannon (Vestavia), Carly Moon (Vestavia), Christine Haley (Oak Mountain), Danielle Fairweather (Spain Park), Mary Regan Harvey (Mountain Brook) and Janey Bloom (Mountain Brook). Third row: Meg Sherman (Oak Mountain), Mykala Johnson (Oak Mountain), Scarlett Stamps (Oak Mountain), Darieal Wimbley (Ramsay), Britney Lockhart (Ramsay) and Jordan Gore (John Carroll) Not pictured: Josie Lent (Vestavia), Margret Collins (Oak Mountain), Taylor Cos (Hoover), Maddie Golden (Huntsville), Annie Kraus (Vestavia), Kayce Swift (Oak Mountain), Brooke Calvert (Huntsville), Mackenzie Keith (John Carroll) and Alley Sloan (John Carroll).

Members of the 2010 Alabama Men’s All State Lacrosse Team are first row, from left: Nick Goska (John Carroll), Juquan Tellis (G.W. Carver), Aaron Vollenweider (Hoover), Crawford Cox (Mountain Brook), Walker Cox (Mountain Brook) and Stephen Walker (Hoover). Second row: Charlie Deer (Mountain Brook), John Somerall (Mountain Brook), Brayden French (Hoover), Trent Chrane (Spain Park), Hayden Smith (John Carroll), Trey Atkinson (Homewood), Brendan Conway (Hoover) and Jeremy Fikes (Hoover). Not Pictured: Grant Galtney (Vestavia), Jesse Leon (G.W. Carver), Julian Speyer (Mountain Brook), Stefan Pajaro-van de Stadt (Homewood) and Wilson Wingo (Homewood).

Vestavia Kings Win June Jam Tourney Team members are front row, from left: Noah Henderson, Andrew Klementz, Zachary Carroll, Noah Bishop, Sammy Khalil and John Annesley DeGaris. Second row: Taylor Nall, Hank Link, Jacob Gordon, Ben Lapinski, ����Parke ���� Aiken and Kemper Sanders. Third Bobby Hanley, Oliver Herndon, Braden McCombs, Wilson Hand, ����� ��� and Tony Herndon. Not Pictured: row: Mark Hand, Sam Khalil, Head Coach Matt Aiken, David�Klementz ������ � Creighton Pete Turner, Joe DeLozier, Tristan Klewsaat, Gene Thagard and ���Matthew ��

Bamalax Wins Georgia Shootout

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U-13 Bamalax lacrosse team won the “2010 Georgia Shootout” lacrosse tournament in Gainesville, Georgia recently. This is a com-

petitive team with the players coming from Hoover, Mountain Brook, and Vestavia Hills. They have won three out of four tournaments they have participated in, the only loss coming in a championship game earlier in the season. Tournament

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The Vestavia Kings won the 13UAA June Jam held at Veterans Park in Alabaster, recdently beating out the Bandits from Gadsden 4-3 in extra innings. Team members are, front row, from left: Anthony Evans, Austin Chandler, Cannon Rogers, Drew Salem and Ryan Dobbs.

Second row: Michael Stockard, Ben Salter, Thomas Watts, Glenn Green and Spencer Haynes Coaches: Eric Watts, Justin King,(head coach) and Bert Salter. Not pictured John David Walker.

results: Spring Fever (May 22-23, Atlanta)- 6-0 Won championship 9-4; Catawba Classic (June 26-27, Rock Hill, S.C.) 4-1, Runner Up, Lost 2-1 to Snipers; Southeast Lax Cup (July 10-11, Atlanta)- 5-0.

Won championship 6-5; Georgia Southern Shoot Out (July 24-25, Gainesville, Ga) 5-0 Won championship 14-3.

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Mountain Brook 9U Metro Tourney Champs

The Mountain Brook “Green Machine” won the 9U Metro American League Championship hosted by Vestavia Hills. Team members are: Mac Abele, Baynes Autrey, Brooks Autrey, William Brown, Blake Fenn, Henry Hartley, Hugh Lawson Joy, Hudson Kirkland, Reynolds Lambert, David Marshall, Thomas Miller, Fuller Priestley, Jackson Savage. Coaches are Christopher Brown and Allen Baynes.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Miller

from back cover Yeager is expecting much the same this fall.

“Miller is a real key for our defense,” Yeager said. “He’s strong with good quickness in getting to the ball carrier. Miller also brings great leadership skills to the table.”

In Mountain Brook’s defense scheme, Williams will line up with the defensive front when facing obvious passing situations.

“I’ll be playing in the defensive line to rush the passer from down the middle,” he explained.

Williams’ versatility comes into play on the other side of the ball as well. Late last season, he was utilized as a fullback in short yardage situations. Although his primary assignment was to block, Williams scored a touchdown from the fullback spot in the Spartans’ homecoming rout of Carver.

“The touchdown was a lot of fun. I hadn’t scored one since junior high,” he recalled. “We’re planning to do the same thing this year, with me lining up at fullback in situations where we need five yards or less. I’ll probably be splitting the running and blocking about half and half.”

Williams has set high personal goals for himself in 2010, and they don’t necessarily include touchdowns.

“I’d like to make at least 150 tackles and a lot of sacks, but mainly I just want to be a leader on the team,” he said. “Anything I can do to help the team win, I want to do it.”

The 6-0, 225-pounder has been helping Mountain Brook teams win for a long time, as Williams has been a star since his junior

Cavalier from back cover

advanced to the Class 5A playoffs.

Now, with the 2010 season opener just two weeks away, the excitement for football at Carroll is so real, a visitor can literally feel it. And Musso insists he is only a small reason for the revival.

“Maybe the biggest thing is that the kids bought into the work ethic that we preached from the first day,” Musso said. “They came in with a positive attitude and did everything we asked of them. And they saw that their work would be rewarded.”

At the fulcrum of Carroll’s new-found success is this season’s 17-member senior class that matriculated into the program with Musso three years ago.

“Our seniors came in when we did and laid the foundation,” said the coach. “They blended together

high days. But when reaching the Spartan varsity as a sophomore, he learned about the pecking order of high school football.

“The sophomores are far down the line when it comes to choosing jersey numbers,” he said. “I wore number 64 that year but didn’t like it too much.

“So the next year, I asked for 42, but that was Major Ogilvie’s number, and it’s been retired. So I got number 45.”

Personal benchmarks are important to Williams, but team objectives hold a much higher priority.

“Too many times we didn’t play Mountain Brook-style football last year,” he said. “We want to get our program’s reputation back to where it used to be. Our goal is to go to the playoffs and advance as far as possible.

“As much as we struggled last year, we still almost made it to the post-season. That should be encouraging as we go into the new season with a better attitude.”

Williams is expecting a better Spartan defense in 2010, despite the fact that all-state defensive lineman Wilson Love has moved on to the University of Alabama.

“We’ve got two guys – Harrison Wright and Clay Yeager – that should do fine in place of Wilson.

If we all play together, we should be much better than last year.”

The Spartans may need to gel

quickly, because their schedule is brutal. After opening Aug. 27 against improving Shades Valley, Mountain Brook faces Class 6A Region 6 rivals Vestavia Hills, Pelham and Homewood in succession – with the first two on the road.

“Sure, it’s a tough schedule, but that’s the kind we always play,” Williams said. “One thing about our schedule is that it keeps us sharp. We can’t ever afford to take it easy any week.

“Another good thing about our schedule is that it gets us ready if we make the playoffs. After playing in our region, we are used to facing tough competition.”

Williams is being recruited by numerous schools, but his favorite now is the United States Air Force Academy.

“I visited the Academy in June and it’s a fantastic place,” he said.

“It would be a great place to go to school.”

His future may be bright, but for Williams and the other Mountain Brook seniors, the future is now.

“The time has gone by so quickly – sometimes I can’t believe I’m really a senior,” Williams said.

“We want to make our senior season one that we won’t forget.”

And the best way to do that is to bring the Spartans back to glory.

Miller Williams is being recruited by numerous schools, but his favorite now is the United States Air Force Academy.

and helped create the excitement for what we are doing today.”

Unity and enthusiasm are important parts of a strong football program at any level – but so is talent, and Carroll has no shortage of it. Senior running backs Adric Merchant and Marcus Richardson may be the best backfield tandem in Jefferson County, and they’re just two of a host of outstanding athletes the Cavs will feature on both sides of the ball.

The reasons for the upgrade in talent on the field are many, but an important one is the establishment of a strong feeder school program, something John Carroll hasn’t always had.

“Every single kid is a starter at some point,” Musso said. “We have a seventh grade team, an eighth grade team, a ninth grade team and a 10th grade team.

And then there’s the varsity.

Everybody is on the same page as far as what we are doing is concerned.”

Another key to Carroll’s success is staff continuity, as all of

THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010 • 27

SPORTS

Musso’s assistants from last year return.

“If you look at the programs that win consistently, most of them keep their staffs largely intact year after year,” Musso said. “Our staff does such a good job, and we are accustomed to working together.”

That spirit of coming together extends all the way to the school administration, led by John Carroll principal Father John McDonald and athletic director Dan Buczek.

“Since we ask our players and coaches to spend so much time away from their families during the season, we try to create as much of a family feeling here as possible,” Musso said. “We have great support from the administrators, parents and alumni.

“There are so many people who want to see this school and this program do well.”

The Cavaliers will open their season at Jacksonville Aug. 27 and will compete in Class 5A’s

Vestavia American All-Star Team Takes Second

The 8-year-old Vestavia Hills American All-Star team made it to the championship game in the double elimination city tournament losing the final game 11-12 to Oak Mountain. Front row, from left: Chandler Merrill, Thomas Cochran, Carter Zulanas, Peyton Walraven, Andrew Doss and Blake McKenna. Middle row: Sam Smith, Sam Willoughby, Reese Crenshaw, Wyatt Cook, Garrison Dabbs and Caplan Bashinsky.

Coaches: Lee Willoughby, Larry Merrill, Barry Dabbs, Chris Zulanas and Robert Cook.

Krimson from back cover

game.

“We would go out and practice and pass and set until midnight,” White recalled. “It was way past my bedtime, but I guess it was worth it.”

As she begins her final year at Homewood, White is amazed at how fast the time has passed.

“It’s all really gone by in a flash,” she said. “It seems like yesterday that I was playing on the junior varsity, and now I’m a senior. It’s really hard to believe, but it’s been a great ride.”

White said she and her senior teammates would like to leave a legacy of winning.

“We want to graduate knowing that we had made Homewood one of the best volrugged Region 4, which includes Fairfield, Hueytown, McAdory, Parker, Pleasant Grove, Wenonah and Woodlawn.

“It’s a quality region, without a doubt,” Musso said. “There aren’t any wins you can pencil in. If you’re not ready to play every week, you’re going to be in trouble.”

Despite the upgraded expectations from alumni and fans, Musso is cautious when setting goals for his team in 2010.

“We’re trying to make every game a weekly championship

leyball programs in Alabama,” she said. “Before we came, I think Homewood maybe only had one or two really good seasons. We’d like to pass a winning tradition on to the girls who come after us.”

Whether college volleyball is in White’s future is an open question, as her comparatively short stature could hold back college recruiters.

“I’d love to play volleyball at the University of Alabama, but God didn’t give me a lot of height,” she said. “As the old saying goes, though, sometimes it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”

For Krimson White – the girl with the memorable name and the propensity for mountain climbing – working hard and achieving greatly has become a trademark. And that’s no fluke. game,” he explained. “We’re just going to concentrate week by week on the opponent we’re facing. If we approach it that way, good things will happen.”

Nobody knows what’s in store for the new season, but one thing is certain: The good times are back for John Carroll football.

The days of long losing streaks are now just part of a distant past.

Musso and his staff may not be miracle workers, but for the people who love John Carroll, they are certainly close enough.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, AUGUST 12, 2010

Sports

Krimson Classic

Lady Patriot Setter Ready For Final Run

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

T

he first thing you can’t help but notice about Krimson White is her head-turning

name.

And believe it or not, it has absolutely nothing to do with the University of Alabama.

“My mom says the name thing was a fluke,” said White, when contacted last week. “She always wanted to name her baby girl Krimson – with a K. “My dad’s last name was White, so I happened to become Krimson White. If his name had been Smith, I would have been Krimson Smith.”

But even White’s unique name is overshadowed by her efforts on the volleyball court. The Homewood senior played a key role in the Lady Patriots’ revival in the sport, leading her team to an appearance in the Class 6A Elite

“This year, it’s up to the senior class to provide better leadership.

There have been a lot of positives in practice so far this summer, and we want that to continue.”

Miller Williams

Eight last season. White – who has been named pre-season all-state at the setter position – is looking for an even bigger and better 2010.

“Our goal is to keep Homewood as one of the best volleyball programs in the state,” she said. “We’d like to get back to the Elite Eight and go even further than that.”

Although White is one of only four seniors on the Lady Patriot squad – Hannah Norris, Kathryn Shields and Alicia Cox are the others – she is expecting a lot from her team.

“We can be as good as we want to be,” she said. “It all depends on how hard we are willing to work and play together.

“I remember last year, players from other teams would come up to me after matches and say ‘your team is like a family.’ We were successful last year because we had that family-like bond. That was more important than our skill level. If we re-establish that family

LAX All State Teams Announced.

See page 26.

the state. This time, White wants more.

“I’d like to get past 922. It would be great to get close to 1,000, but I don’t want to get greedy,” she said, laughing. “I’ll settle for 923, as long as it’s more than last year.”

Although she stands only 5-6, White plays volleyball with the strength and passion you might expect from a girl who enjoys climbing mountains and rocks as a hobby. White’s greatest asset, however, may be her self confidence – an essential ingredient for a successful setter, who leads a volleyball team much like a quarterback leads a football team.

“To play setter, you’ve got to have the confidence of your teammates, and you’ve got to have conHomewood’s Krimson White has fidence in yourself,” she said. “I’d been named pre-season all-state tell any young player that if they at the setter position. want to be a good setter, they have to believe in themselves.” feeling, we will have a great year.

White’s interest in volleyball “We want to be the hardest- goes back to the sixth grade, when working, scrappiest team on the she served as a team manager. She court.” credits a cousin, Laura Gulino, White is setting her individual for helping her make the transigoals high as well. Last season, tion from managing to playing the she earned 922 assists – one of See Krimson, page 27 the highest totals of any player in

Miller-Time

Ace Spartan Linebacker Looks to Senior Season

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

M

iller Williams is a man on a mission.

Williams, a senior linebacker at Mountain Brook, is determined to help bring Spartan football back to where he thinks it belongs.

Last season, Mountain Brook posted a 4-6 record, the school’s weakest worksheet in years, and Williams has decided that one bad season is far too many.

“A year ago, we had some negative things happen early on,

and it was a snowball effect after that,” said Williams, when contacted between practice sessions last week. “Some of our people weren’t as motivated as they should have been.

“This year, it’s up to the senior class to provide better leadership.

There have been a lot of positives in practice so far this summer, and we want that to continue.”

Despite the Spartans’ losing record, Williams turned heads last season with his aggressive play at the middle linebacker spot, and Mountain Brook coach Chris

Don’t Miss The Journal’s 2010 OTM High School Football Preview Special Section, August 26!

Team Profiles, Schedules, Team Photos and Rosters, Key Players to Watch and More!

See Miller, page 27

Lee Davis

Cavalier Attitude:

Musso’s Third Year Could Be the Best

S

ome people could call Chris Musso a miracle worker, but that might be an exaggeration.

What’s true, however, is that Musso – entering his third year as the head coach of the John Carroll Catholic Cavaliers – may have done the best job of rebuilding a football program of any Metro Birmingham coach in recent years.

Carroll had an outstanding gridiron tradition prior to Musso’s arrival, but too often it seemed relegated to distant memory.

Pat Sullivan was a superstar for the Cavaliers before winning the Heisman Trophy at Auburn University in 1971. And old-time Carroll fans still talk about the 1973 Class 3A state champs, which might have been the best team in Alabama that year, regardless of classification.

Younger Carroll fans have less pleasant memories of seasons where wins were few and far between. During those down years, some even suggested that John Carroll football might never be competitive again.

Happily, they were wrong.

The Cavs went 2-8 the year before Musso arrived on the Lakeshore Drive campus. In his first season, Carroll put together a respectable 5-5 record. Last year was much better, as the Cavaliers posted a winning season and

See Cavalier, page 27