1.10.19

OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM

SOCIAL

THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2019

SPORTS

WEDDINGS | SPECIAL ISSUE

Destination Wedding

Photo special to the Journal

Mountain Brook Couple Pulls Off Romantic Greek Wedding Despite the Distance

Jon Allen Bernstein and Terpsithea Christou were married on July 7 in Christou’s hometown of Ioannina, Greece. See story, page 21.

INSIDE SECRET’S OUT? Deadline Looms to Buy Edgewood’s ‘Pink House’ Ahead of Its Planned Demolition NEWS PAGE 8

NEW IN TOWN High-Profile Food Folks Will Open Birmingham Eateries in 2019 FOOD PAGE 29 WALK THIS WAY Mountain Brook City Officials Cut Ribbon on Jemison Trail Pedestrian Bridge PAGE 10

2 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

Happy New Year!

Murphy’s Law

We hope you and your family had a wonderful holiday season and are as excited as we are to get 2019 underway!

We’re excited to announce the launch of our newsletter, which debuted on Jan. 1.

With the new OTMJ newsletter - published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll be recapping the latest news, sports and social events as well as giving you a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Birmingham metro area.

To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj. com.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.

ABOUT TOWN 4 NEWS 8 LIFE 12 SOCIAL 14

WEDDINGS FOOD SCHOOLS SPORTS

21 29 32 36

otmj.com There’s so much happening in the Over the Mountain area, we can’t fit it all in the paper! Visit www.otmj.com for more stories and photos.

Szechuan and Sensibility (Sigh)

A

ficult for me at any time of day. There are des$12 million grant recently was awarded ignated good carbs, of course, ones that have to study which type of diet was most garnered a nutritional seal of approval, but effective for losing weight and keeping they’re ones made with whole grains, the kernel it off. Guess what they found: a diet low in and the chewy, teeth-clogging chaff. These are carbs. Twelve million dollars and we get a big good, in a compromising sort of way, but when “Duh!” I eat whole grain pasta, all I can think of is how Seriously, everyone knows that. The probmuch better the dish would have tasted with the lem is that no one wants that to be the answer. wicked, partial grain version.

They would love for the study to have promptI’d like to be healthy, though, and I did ed breaking news (even during the Super Bowl) enjoy a lot of partial grains over the holidays, that research had concluded we would all be so now, being the good girl that I am, I’ve comhealthier if we committed to eating a Twinkie mitted myself to paying the whole grain price. every evening before bedtime whether we felt So long, sugarplums. Hello, cardboard chip/ like it or not. That would be $12 million well crackers that are baked, not fried. spent.

It makes good sense to eat this way. I know There was a bit of good news on the diet Sue Murphy that. Whole grains are said to release their enerfront. Dark chocolate is still considered benefigy in a slow, sustained manner while their cial, even during these dark days when partial grain counterparts burn their candles Romaine lettuce is not. I saw an online post that said, “I’ve been training for this moment There was a bit of good at both ends, giving you a lovely time up front, then leaving you in a depleted heap. I my whole life.” I hear ya, sister. news on the diet front. guess that’s where I find myself now: heaped We all know what we want to eat. We like Dark chocolate is still and heavy of heart. things that are salty. We like things that are Over time, I will benefit from the nutrisweet, or at least I thought that was a given. I considered beneficial, tional edge low-sugar fruits and vegetables was waiting to board a mid-morning flight a even during these dark give me. I’d just like a little more provision few weeks back when a woman sat down days when Romaine to be made for mashed potatoes and risotto next to me balancing her breakfast on her and hot, buttered, white bread toast. And lap. The smell that wafted my way was not lettuce is not. please, please, do not try and fool me with breakfast-familiar to me so I turned to see noodles made out of cauliflower or zucchini that she was eating a bowl of steamed broccoli and cabbage. At 9 a.m. I suppose that’s or beets. Any taste bud worth its salt knows nutritional dedication, or maybe she was just the difference. showing off in a California sort of way. But the smell sent queaOh well. That’s what January is all about, Charlie Brown. It sy signals to my stomach, so I moved next to a woman who was calls us back from the revelry of the holidays to the sloweating something more sensible, like a bacon, egg and cheese release joys of being sensible. I’ll try, I really will, but I am not, biscuit. repeat not, having broccoli for breakfast. Not even for $12 milBroccoli for breakfast? I couldn’t do it. Limiting carbs is dif- lion.

Over the Mountain Views

What do you resolve to do in 2019?

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Ingrid Howard, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Blake Ells, Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, Jordan Wald, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Sam Prickett Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Laura Lane, Tommy Wald, Suzanne Wald

Vol. 28, No. 11

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

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

Copyright 2018 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.

“I want to draw every day.”

Stacey Godbee Birmingham

“Read my bible more and become a better worker.”

Phillip Blackmon Homewood

“Prepare for my wedding!”

Jessie Garrison Homewood

“My resolution is to live in the moment and be more intentional.”

Neillie Butler Mountain Brook

Next Issue: January 24th Home: Sneak Peek at the 2019 Decorators’ ShowHouse

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 3

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4 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

War Paint

embracing strength, the sides of the battle that bond someone with their families, that solidifies marriages.”

It’s a part of the battle that she discovered through her career as a dietician at the cancer center about 10 years ago, helping patients keep their weight up to aid in their fight, and through her own personal connections with cancer.

Local Artist Webb Paints Narratives at Cancer Center Art Fundraiser

By Emily Williams

Thurs., Jan. 10 Hoover Service Club Meeting What: Guest speaker, The Honorable Frank Brocato, Mayor of the city of Hoover will give the “State of the City Address.” For reservations call Winnie Cooper, 979-5699.

When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Hoover Country Club Website: hooveral.org Jan. 10 and 11

Turtle Island Quartet with Cyrus Chestnut

What: Renowned jazz master Cyrus Chestnut and the Grammy-winning Turtle Island Quartet continue their journey together as they traverse the myriad colors of jazz and beyond.

When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Hoover Library Theatre Website: hooverlibrary.org

Jan. 10-13 A Red Plaid Shirt

What: Homewood Theatre presents a comedy by Michael C. Wilmot.

The play takes a funny look at retirement and how people adjust to it in different ways.

When: Jan. 10-12 at 7:30 p.m. and

Local artist Sarah Soule Webb, pictured right, participated in Artblink for the first time last year creating a work of art for silent auction during a 90-minute live painting period with help from her assistant for the evening, Kate Hughes, left.

study every day to further her abilities.

When she is painting live at a wedding, Webb said, she likes to go to the venue the day before to map out the background of the piece.

She spent months mapping out the image she created for Artblink last year.

“I drew it out on a canvas and practiced,” she said. “It definitely took me a few months to get the hang of it. It didn’t help that I chose something difficult to

paint.”

She painted two hands reaching out to each other – one hand younger and one hand a bit older.

Webb is partial to creating a narrative for each of her paintings, and last year’s was no exception.

“The story evokes a memory or a feeling,” Webb said. “I wanted to focus on a positive aspect of battling cancer.”

Webb said that painting “was all about

“My mother-in-law is a breast cancer survivor, and my sister has a mother-in-law who also has battled cancer,” Webb said. “We all have those connections to cancer, some of us closer than others.”

Just as she did last year, this year Webb will create a work of art that showcases an aspect of those connections to cancer.

“I actually had a dream about what I will paint not too long ago,” she said. “After I dreamed about it, I started drawing it out.”

The result of Webb’s work will remain a surprise for those who attend Artblink this year.

“It is an honor to be able to give back to the cancer center in a creative way such as this,” Webb said.

This year’s event will be held in honor of long-time supporter Ed Meyerson, one of the founding members of the center’s advisory board.

The event will be held Feb. 2 at 6:30 p.m. at UAB’s Kirklin Clinic and will include hors d’oeuvres, drinks and live music. An art gallery will show original works created by the artists participating in this year’s live painting that will be available for purchase.

For more information on Artblink, visit artblink.org.

Jan. 13 at 2:30 p.m.

Where: Homewood Theatre at The Dance Foundation Website: homewoodtheatre.com

Photo special to the Journal

JAN. 10 - JAN. 24

Photo special to the Journal

According to Sarah Soule Webb, a local artist who lives in Mountain Brook, creating a work of art under a time limit is like skydiving.

“It absolutely forces you to use parts of your brain that you don’t normally tap into when you have a lot of time to work on a piece,” she said.

Webb has been painting live at weddings for a while and participated for the first time last year in Artblink, an art gala hosted by the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

She will participate again in this year’s event Feb. 2 at the Kirklin Clinic. She and 19 fellow artists will be creating works of art in 90 minutes that then will be sold in a silent auction.

Mentally preparing to complete a work of art in 90 minutes took Webb a few months.

“I called myself an artist at the age of three, as most kids do,” Webb said. “I believe in a little bit of natural talent, but I also believe in training. I was lucky that I had parents and teachers throughout my life who encouraged me to foster that talent.”

Now that she is a full-time artist, she is able to try out new things and practice and

First-Hand Experience With Cancer

Jan. 11 and 12 The Beginning: Carlos Conducts Beethoven’s First Symphony

What: Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra as they begin a journey through all nine Beethoven symphonies, starting with the groundbreaking first symphony. The program also features Schubert’s final completed symphony, aptly nicknamed The Great.

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall Website: alabamasymphony.org

Sat., Jan. 12 Becky Albertalli Author Talk wand Book Signing

What: Homewood Public Library presents Becky Albertalli, author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and several other bestselling young adult books.

When: 2-3 p.m.

Where: Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium Website: homewood.libnet.info Jan. 13, 17, 24 and 27

Thurs., Jan. 17 2019 Mtn. Brook Chamber Annual Luncheon

What: Join the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce for its biggest luncheon of the year. The Jemison Visionary Award will be presented to Bill Bowron, above, CEO of Red Diamond Coffee & Tea and supporter of the Beaux Arts Krewe, the Birmingham Museum of Art and the Birmingham Zoo, among other non-profit organizations. The Emmet O’Neal Library will be presenting the Tynes Award to Alice Williams, past-president of the Jefferson County Historical Association and library board member. The City of Mountain Brook will also present its annual Employee of the Year Award.

When: Doors open at 11 a.m. with the presentation from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Grand Bohemian Hotel Website: mtnbrookchamber.org

The Holocaust in Film

What: The Library will host its free annual Holocaust in Film series in partnership with the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center. Each of the four films will feature an introduction and discussion led by UAB professor Dr. Andre Millard.

When: Jan. 13, 2-5 p.m.; Jan. 17, 6-9 p.m.; Jan. 24, 6-9 p.m.; and

Jan. 27, 2-5 p.m.

Where: Emmet O’Neal Library, Community Meeting Room Website: eolib.org

Mon., Jan. 14 Randy Baron Book Signing

What: Randy Baron, bridge expert and author, will give a free lecture.

His books “Almost The Only Bridge Book You Will Ever Need, volumes I and II will be available for purchase and signing. For more information contact Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club at 560-0706.

When: 11 a.m.

Where: Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club Website: bridgewebs.com/ birmingham/

Tues., Jan. 15 Homewood Chamber Luncheon

What: Join the Homewood Chamber of Commerce for the January Monthly Membership Luncheon and annual State of the City Address featuring Mayor Scott McBrayer.

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: The Club, Ballroom Website: homewoodchamber.org

Vestavia Hills Chamber Luncheon

What: Network with other chamber members and hear speakers on a wide variety of topics.

This month’s program will be the presentation of Awards and the 2019 officer installation.

Reservations must be received by 4 p.m. Jan. 11.

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: A private club in Vestavia Website: vestaviahills.org

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

2019!

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 5

6 • Thursday, January 10, 2019 What: This marks the legendary National Ballet Theatre of Odessa’s first visit to the United States with 55 of Russia’s brightest and most talented ballet stars bringing this romantic tale of true love to life.

“Swan Lake” is a ballet in four acts with music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky and choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov.

When: 7:30 p.m.

Where: Lyric Fine Arts Theatre Website: “Swan Lake” Facebook page

Jan. 18 and 19 Carmina Burana & The Rite of Spring

What: The rowdy choruses and sublime arias of Carmina Burana always thrill audiences. For the first time since 2001 The Alabama Symphony will perform Stravinsky’s evocative and innovative Rite of Spring.

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall Website: alabamasymphony.org

Jan. 18-20 Pioneer Classic

What: Lakeshore Foundation’s 32nd premier wheelchair basketball tournament will feature adult and youth teams from across the country. All games are free and open to the public.

When: Check the website for times Where: Lakeshore Foundation Website: lakeshore.org

Sat., Jan. 19 MLK Day 5K Drum Run

What: Over 200 drummers from the metro area schools and groups will line up along the race course to keep the beat as the runners and walkers make their way.

Activities include a warm up, live music, professional timing, sponsor booths, post party and race goodie bags with the popular MLK Day 5K Drum Run shirt for all race entrants.

When: 7 -11 a.m. with an 8 a.m.

5K start Where: 12th St. S. and First Ave. S.

Website: mlkday5kbham.com

Pelham Polar Plunge

What: Pelham Police Department presents a Polar Plunge in support of the 15,000 athletes of Special Olympics Alabama. Dress in costume for a chance to win bragging rights and cool prizes.

When: 9 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. costume contest and 10:15 Polar Plunge Where: Oak Mountain State Park Website: “Oak Mountain State Park Polar Plunge for Special Olympics” Facebook page

The Mambo Kings

Japanese Heritage Festival

What: Using Japanese art as inspiration, the Birmingham Museum of Art explores the culture of Japan through special art activities, tours of the Japanese gallery and screenings of Anime. Highlighting the day will be a traditional tea ceremony demonstration by the Chado Urasenke Tankokai Birmingham Association. Free and open to the public.

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: Birmingham Museum of Art Website: artsbma.org

Tues., Jan. 22 Foster Dickson, Author of Closed Ranks: The Whitehurst Case in Post-Civil Rights Montgomery

What: Homewood Library hosts Foster Dickson with his book about a police shooting of an unarmed black man. This book shows how essential it is to find the truth in such deeply troubling matters. Books will be available for purchase.

When: 1-2 p.m.

Where: Homewood Public Library, Round Auditorium Website: homewood.libnet.info

Thurs., Jan. 24 and 28 Friends of the Library: Vestavia Hills Fire Department What: Join Vestavia Hills Police Department to learn about their jobs and the safety and services they provide. Enjoy coffee and

BEGINNING BRIDGE LESSONS ︎

MONDAY, JANUARY 28 at 9:30 am, or MONDAY, JANUARY 28 at 6:30 pm

Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club! !

Sat., Jan. 26

Emry Hendrix enjoys a sip of tea at last summer’s Mad Hatter’s Fairy Garden Tea Party.

Journal file photo by Ingrid Howard

Swan Lake

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

COMING JANUARY 14...

RANDY BARON

144 Business Center Dr. 35244 AUTHOR AND BRIDGE EXPERT !

(205) 560-0706! ! bridgewebs.com/birmingham/! Randy will give a FREE lecture Convenient: Just off Valleydale! on tips from his bridge books!

Road between I-65 & Hwy. 31

ALL PLAYERS ARE WELCOME AT THE BDBC

Mon., Jan. 21 Mad Hatter’s Fairy Garden Tea Party 2

What: As a requested repeat of Aldridge Garden’s smash hit in July, parents and grandparents can bring children and grandchildren to decorate a small garden container, have “tea” (finger sandwiches and desserts) and play games. Hats are welcome. Register is required.

When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Martin Luther King Day, no school Where: The house and patio at Aldridge Gardens Website: aldridgegardens.com refreshments. Adult program, ages 18 and up.

When: Coffee and refreshments at 10 a.m. with the program to follow at 10:30 a.m.

Where: Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest, Community Room

Jan. 24-Feb. 9 Fun Home

What: Terrific New Theatre presents this groundbreaking new musical based on Alison Bechdel’s best-selling graphic memoir, which was the winner of five Tony Awards.

When: Thurs., Fri. and Sat. nights at 8 p.m.; Sundays Jan. 27; and Feb. 3 at 2:30 p.m.

Where: Terrific New Theatre Website: terrificnewtheatre.com

Jan. 24-Feb. 10 Million Dollar Quartet

What: The Tony Award-winning musical, Million Dollar Quartet is set on Dec. 4, 1956 when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest

jam sessions ever. Showcased hit songs include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues” and more.

When: Thurs.-Sat. 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 2:30 p.m.

Where: Virginia Samford Theatre Mainstage Website: virginiasamfordtheatre. org

SAVE THE DATE Jan. 25 and 27 Glory Denied

What: A story of an American family during the turbulent Vietnam War era. This intimate chamber opera chronicles the saga of Colonel Jim Thompson, America’s longest-held prisoner of war, from his suffering in the jungles of southeast Asia to the personal struggles of his family following his liberation and repatriation.

When: Jan. 25 at 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 27 at 2:30 p.m.

Where: Opera Birmingham Website: operabirmingham.org

Fireballs the modern alternative

What: New York’s foremost Latin jazz ensemble, in concert with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. The Mambo Kings apply their “explosive blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and improvisation” to classical favorites, pop hits and jazz standards.

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Samford University, Wright Fine Arts Center Website: alabamasymphony.org

Lyric Masquerade Ball

What: The Junior Board of the Alabama and Lyric Theatres presents the fourth annual masquerade Ball. Celebrate the Mardi Gras season by dancing the night away. This formal event will feature The Matthew DeVine Band playing New Orleans jazz, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and an open bar including wine, beer and a signature cocktail.

When: 7 p.m.

Where: Lyric Theatre Website: “Fourth Annual Lyric Masquerade Ball” Facebook page

Rosie Herrera Dance

What: The Alys Stephens Center and the Alabama Dance council co-present the Rosie Herrera Dance Theatre as the guest company-in-residence for the 2019 Alabama Dance Festival.

The company will present “Make Believe.”

When: 8 p.m.

Where: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall Website: alysstephens.org

Jan. 26 and 27 Birmingham Feline Fanciers CFA-Licensed Cat Show

What: The Birmingham Feline Fanciers hosts its annual show featuring vendors with cat-related items for sale, and local rescue and humane organizations will have cats and kittens available for adoption.

When: Jan. 26 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Jan. 27 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Zamora Shrine Temple Website: birminghamfelinefanciers. com

Mon., Jan. 28 NASA Night with Astronaut Dr. DeLucas

What: Homewood Public Library welcomes astronaut Dr. Lawrence DeLucas as he shares his space story. Lunar and meteorite samples will also be on display as part of a lending program with the Johnson Space Center and NASA. This program is offered as part of the NASA @ My Library grant.

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium Website: homewood.libnet.info

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

Getting Away from a Bad Situation

MBPD Launches Situational Awareness Training Course for Citizens

By Emily Williams Mountain Brook Police Officer Matt Sulenski said that, when it comes to staying safe, it’s best to be aware of your surroundings, and he has built a class to teach members of the public how to do that.

People participating in the six-week Situational Awareness Course will meet each Tuesday beginning Jan. 15 to take part in lectures and training led by Mountain Brook officers to hone skills in safety, situational awareness and self-defense.

“The way I geared this is that it’s not going to turn everybody into a ninja,” Sulenski said. “What I’m trying to give them are simple basic techniques to get away from a bad situation.”

The course will have something for everyone, he added.

“There is a portion of the curriculum that’s going to cover sexual assault and rape, but it’s not just necessarily for women,” he said.

There will be lessons that older women and men will find just as helpful as young women who are going off to college and want to be better prepared to avoid danger or defend themselves.

“The majority of people are just not aware of what’s going on around them or what to look for and how not to be a victim,” he said.

What makes this course more effective, in Sulenski’s eyes, is its length. There are builtin reviews for participants to refresh their memories about what they have learned previously in the course.

“I could do this in one big class – one

long day – but what happens typically when you go to something like that is … you get taught 12 different techniques. Then, two days later you remember two things,” Sulenski said.

By breaking up each of the lessons and building in review time, Sulenski hopes participants graduate from the course with a bit more knowledge. That being said, he also suggests that anything is better than nothing when it comes to safety.

Martial Arts for Defense

His go-to suggestion for people looking to learn how to defend themselves is to take up martial arts.

It can be as easy as taking a taekwondo class at the YMCA, if that’s all you have access to, he said. But a class that includes actual fight training is preferable.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is his favorite, and Muay Thai is a close second.

“The more you do something, the less stressful it becomes for you,” he said. “So, if you’ve never been in a physical confrontation before, well, in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, you’re gonna. But they’re going to put you through it in a safe class environment.”

When he is training police officers, Sulenski said, there is a lot of force-on-force training. Newer officers may enter the training nervous, with high heart rates and generally feeling uncomfortable. The more training they go through, the less stressful the fight becomes.

In a high-stress, dangerous situation,

adrenaline does kick in, but so does nasal constriction, auditory exclusion, tunnel vision and many other things that impair your situational awareness.

“If you’ve never been hit, then the first time that it happens it’s a shock and you’re not prepared. You don’t know what it’s like.

You don’t know what to do,” he said.

By conditioning your body to those stressors in a safe environment, you can physically be better prepared to decide when it’s time to fight or how best to remove yourself from a bad situation.

Later in the course, Sulenski said, officers will set up stress exercises to give participants a glimpse of how those stressors affect their ability to fight.

Participants also will learn basic skills in fighting: how to strike, where to strike, how to use punches and kicks and more.

Lectures will cover topics that include conditioning yourself to be more aware while approaching your car in a parking lot or while at gas stations or in restaurants and other public places.

Sulenski said people tend to think “I’ll never be in this situation,” or “It wouldn’t ever happen to me,” but that’s not necessarily true.

“It’s my personal belief that everybody should have some sort of basic knowledge when it comes to defending yourself,” he said.

When you are mentally aware in any situation, you are better able to sense those gut feelings that tell you something is wrong.

Those gut feelings are something to trust, he

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 7

said.

“If something looks funky or feels funky, listen to that,” Sulenski said.

“When you’re walking to the car, have your keys in your hand,” he added. “Don’t be looking on your phone. Look at what’s around you and the things surrounding your vehicle.

“Unlock the car. You get in. Lock the doors. Put the keys in the ignition and seat belts on and you go. Don’t be just sitting there.”

Future Classes Possible

Though the course is full, a growing wait list has called Mountain Brook Police Chief Ted Cook to add an additional course, which will be held on Thursday evenings from April 4 to May 9. According to Cook, he has already booked at least five participants for the spring course.

“This is something I could see us making a yearly thing,” Sulenski said. “Every year we’ve got people that are going to be going off to college, and local residents need it too.”

Not only does this program benefit the public, it’s something that the training officers involved enjoy doing. For Sulenski, who trains officers as well, it is gratifying to teach anyone a new skill.

“I really enjoy watching someone go from having a zero skill set in an area to building up their skill set, becoming proficient and then really learning something new and feeling like they got something good out of this.

They can say, ‘I feel better prepared for my life.’”

For more information about the class and to register, email cookt@mtnbrook.org.

It’s great to be back in Alabama!

I am honored to be joining the compassionate community of care at Brookwood Baptist Health and Brookwood Baptist Medical Center as the new chief executive officer. I am also thrilled to be returning to this wonderful area. My wife and I lived in North Alabama for several years toward the beginning of my career in healthcare, and my oldest daughter was born in Alabama.

Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to the health and wellness of others, and I bring that commitment with me to Brookwood. You can count on our entire team to always put our patients’ needs first. I am humbled to have been chosen to lead such an outstanding group of men and women who, since 1973, have provided care to members of the Birmingham community.

Our dedicated caregivers have had the privilege of providing state-of-the-art medical intervention, combined with a comforting word and reassuring smile, to the thousands of patients who have turned to us in their time of greatest need.

These caregivers have been witnesses to life’s miracles – from the delivery of a first-born child after years of infertility to seeing immobile patients resume their independence − as well as countless other memorable and inspiring milestones. It is through this service that they exemplify the mission of Brookwood Baptist Medical Center to extend the healing ministry of Christ through holistic, people-centered care.

Our goal is to never stray from these central beliefs. That’s why all of us at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center are rededicating ourselves to the mission and core values of the hospital. These values – integrity, service, quality, transparency and innovation – are guiding principles that I hold dear in my own life, as I am sure you do in yours. I strongly believe that our continuing and relentless adherence to them will help take us to new heights of care and service.

We thank you for trusting us with your care and giving us the opportunity to serve you.

In good health,

Tim Puthoff CEO Brookwood Baptist Medical Center

NEWS

8 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

Secret’s Out?

By Virginia Martin

Deadline Looms to Buy Edgewood’s ‘Pink House’ Ahead of Its Planned Demolition

Photos courtesy Dylan Spencer

The Homewood Historical Preservation Society is continuing its push to raise money to buy the “Pink House” in Edgewood, also known as the Bridges Home, to save it from being demolished and recommit it as a public space open to the community.

The society is working with local investors, national organizations and the community to raise money to buy the property before a Feb. 1 deadline, according to a statement from the society.

The house has a storied history of art and celebrity, but a developer bought the house and land from its most recent owner and plans to build five houses on the property.

“We don’t want to vilify the developer. We don’t believe that growth and change are bad,” Dylan Spencer, a member of the society’s board, said in the statement. “We just believe this is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime property worth saving – and we are doing our best to save it. We hope other folks who love Homewood and Birmingham will join us by donating to the campaign by visiting our website or reaching out if they are interested in becoming a cornerstone investor.”

The house was built in 1921 on the corner of Roseland Drive and Edgewood Boulevard. The house and an elaborate garden, which the society dubbed the “secret garden,” are surrounded by trees that shield the house from the neighborhood streets.

Georges and Eleanor Bridges, both accomplished artists, made the property their home in the 1920s.

They raised children abandoned in the mines during the Great Depression there and hosted promi-

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Homewood Historical Preservation Society is working with local investors, national organizations and the community to raise money to buy the property in Edgewood before a Feb. 1 deadline.

nent American writers in their home, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. They also gave shelter to refugees from Mexico in the house.

Georges Bridges was a sculptor and created the Brother Bryan statue in the garden of the house. Eleanor Bridges was an acclaimed painter who also worked in the house.

Eric and Diana Hansen purchased the home in 1988 and have lived there ever since but sold it to a developer in 2004, when they faced medical bills. The developer, Pat

O’Sullivan, allowed the Hansens to continue living in the house until this month.

Two New Publix Stores to Open as Western Closes Its Doors

The Homewood Planning Commission has approved his plan to demolish the house and subdivide the property into six lots to accommodate five new houses.

O’Sullivan has said he would entertain proposals to buy the property. Spencer said a final fundraising goal is not being announced because the amount needed will depend on negotiations between investors and the current owner.

According to the fundraising website, donors contributing $1,000 or more can make prior arrangements

Publix plans to open the GreenWise Market in Mountain Brook during the third quarter of this year. The stores are generally smaller and more focused on

Journal photo by Ingrid Howard

‘We’ve taken Western as far as we can. It’s time to exit the business that has been my life’s work.’

KEN HUBBARD

The Western on Morgan Drive, above, will be torn down and a 35,000-square-foot Publix built in its place. No opening date has been set for that store. Plans are to open a GreenWise Market in the Lane Parke location.

By Emily Williams Publix Super Markets will be taking over two Western Market locations in the Over the Mountain area, with plans to open a GreenWise Market in the Lane

Parke location and a Publix at the Vestavia Hills site on Morgan Drive.

“When I became involved in ownership in 1987,” owner Ken Hubbard said in a statement, “our goal was to maintain Western as

Birmingham’s leading independent grocer. With the help of the loyal and talented people on the Western team, we’ve achieved that goal.

We’ve taken Western as far as we can. It’s time to exit the business that has been my life’s work.”

organic, natural and prepared foods than traditional Publix markets.

The Western on Morgan Drive will be torn down and a 35,000-square-foot Publix built in its place. No opening date has been set for that store.

“Publix is always seeking locations where we can serve our customers and offer an exceptional shopping experience,” Publix CEO Todd Jones said in a statement.

to have their donations refunded if the campaign to save the Pink House fails.

“This property has meant so much to the people of Homewood, to the Birmingham arts community, to the many refugees the Bridges welcomed into their home,” Spencer said in the statement. “Our hope is that the Pink House will continue for another hundred years, but now even better – as a community space open to the public.

“Razing the house and secret garden will leave a historic neighborhood unrecognizable and continue our city’s troubling cycle of destroying historical sites and regretting it once it’s too late. Our plan is for the property to become sort of a miniature Botanical Gardens with space for an art gallery, free art classes, gardening, weddings, movies on the lawn – just a beautiful place for people from all over Birmingham to enjoy.”

Donations to save the structure may be made at savethehomewoodpinkhouse.com. Those interested in becoming a cornerstone investor may email Spencer at info@savethehomewoodpinkhouse.com. Checks made out to “Homewood Alabama Historical Preservation Society” also may be mailed to 904 Forrest Drive S., Homewood, AL 35029.

“This is absolutely possible – all it takes is finding the right like-minded investors and donors who share in our affection and foresight for Homewood and for Birmingham,” Spencer said in the statement.

“There is limitless potential in this property for the people of our city.

This is a very special place that people from across the greater Birmingham area should be able to come together and enjoy.”

“This acquisition allows us to expand our presence in the Birmingham area, and we are very excited to bring one of our GreenWise Markets to this region.”

Western Market has two other locations in the Birmingham area.

The Village Market in East Lake is for sale and the store on Highland Avenue will close as Highland Plaza is slated for redevelopment.

More than 200 people work for Western Market and have been encouraged to seek employment with Publix.

“Many of our employees have worked at Western their entire careers. Treating them fairly, giving them plenty of notice and helping them find employment is now our mission,” Hubbard said.

Western will be having an inventory liquidation sale. The wine liquidation sale begins Jan. 9, with all wines discounted by 20 percent, and the remaining inventory liquidation will begin Jan. 30, according to the statement.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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On the morning of Jan. 4, Mountain Brook city officials gathered at the new Jemison Park Pedestrian Bridge to cut the ribbon on a project that has been three years in the making.

Mayor Stewart Welch said that when he first saw the bridge taking shape, he thought it looked unnecessarily high, but nearly a week’s worth of rain and flooding of Shades Creek made it clear that the height was necessary.

Virginia C. Smith, Mountain Brook City Council president, said Jemison Park Nature Trail is “loved by many and used by thousands.”

“Now, thanks to the new pedestrian bridge, our trail is accessible to all,” she said.

Smith said she was glad the plans kept the stepping stones that

Journal photos by Emily Williams

Mountain Brook City Officials Cut Ribbon on Long-Awaited Jemison Trail Pedestrian Bridge

By Emily Williams

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

NEWS

allow visitors to cross the creek.

“We all know their limitations in providing a safe connection between one end of the park and the other. Today that connection is in place with this bridge,” Smith said.

On the day of the ribbon cutting, the stepping stones weren’t visible because of high waters. It was such flooding that caused issues for those in charge of engineering the bridge and that made for a lengthy building process.

“This whole project started almost three years ago, in May of 2016, when Kathryn Harbert came to me with a vision and an idea, a notion, that she said Jemison Park needs a bridge across the creek so that mothers, those in wheelchairs, grandmothers and others that don’t feel comfortable going across the stones to get to the other side (can use it),” said Billy Pritchard, coun-

From left, Philip Black, Alice Womack, Dick Shea, Billy Pritchard, Michael and Kathy Mouron, Kathryn Harbert, Mayor Stewart Welch, Virginia C. Smith and Lloyd Shelton.

cil president pro tempore.

Over the next three years, plans were made and then redrawn, other locations were considered, and many people pitched in to help make the bridge a reality, according to Pritchard.

“A lot of work was done to try to figure out how you could engineer a bridge here that would survive floods,” Pritchard said. “That went on for quite a period of time and, fortunately, Dick Shea (of Morris-Shea Bridge Company) stepped in with his expertise as a

master bridgebuilder.”

Shea spoke about the many hurdles he, his wife and his son faced making sure the bridge not only worked for the area, but also looked great and was visually consistent with the city’s standards.

“It’s been a lot of fun building,” Shea said. “I was shocked at the number of people who really use it. So, I had no idea that this many people came through here.”

Funding for the bridge came from a substantial donation provided by lifelong Mountain Brook

Unless U Breaks Ground

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

In a groundbreaking ceremony Nov. 4, Unless U announced plans to build a new building on the corner of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church’s property at 737 Chestnut St. in Vestavia Hills.

The nonprofit that specializes in continued education for adults with disabilities was launched in 2014 by Executive Director Lindy Cleveland of Vestavia Hills shortly after her graduation from Samford University.

Operating out of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, the organization has been working toward building its own space since 2016, according to Cleveland.

The new site was donated by the United Methodist Church and Jerry and Karen Duncan. In February, Unless U will launch the Unless U Build Capital Campaign with a goal to raise $1.3 million in three years.

“Yes, this is an ambitious project, but based on all of the events that have led us to today, we are convinced that now is the time and this is the place for the new home of Unless U,” said Doug Williamson, chairman of the board.

Unless U’s new space would allow participation to grow from 40 adults served each day to 75 adults.

The facility would include multiple classrooms, a library, a lunchroom, a

Photo special to the Journal

Launches Fund Drive to Build New Facility for Educating Adults with Disabilities

Doug and Lisa Williamson, Jordan Decker, Unless U Executive Director Lindy Cleveland and Mitch Cleveland with Grady.

job skills classroom, fine arts space and offices.

“The leadership team and membership of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church have rallied

Firehouse Celebrates 35th Anniversary by Breaking Ground on New Shelter

around this project,” said Dr. Ammie Akin, board member and campaign chair. “Everything has fallen into place, seamlessly, again God reminding us that he is ordering

Firehouse Ministries broke ground on its new homeless shelter in downtown Birmingham on Dec. 21, the organization’s 35th anniversary.

The new location at 626 Second Ave. N. is estimated to be completed in 10 months. Dunn Construction and Poole and Associates are constructing the building.

“The building of the new Firehouse will allow us to serve our community’s most vulnerable citizens in a manner that is supportive, individualized and holistic,” Firehouse Ministries Executive Director Anne Wright Rygiel said in a release. “We believe in restoring dignity and hope to the homeless, and for the first time in our history, the building will match the quality of services within!”

The facility will accommodate 112 people – more than double the capacity of its 50-bed

resident Michael Mouron and his wife, Kathy, through the Mouron Family Foundation. Mouron noted that the bridge will be something that his three sons and eight grandchildren can enjoy.

Mouron said the bridge also pays homage to the armed forces.

“This bridge is dedicated to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces,” he said. “I don’t think we can ever do enough or say enough about that. we wouldn’t be here enjoying this otherwise.” each step. So, today, we are here to break ground with old friends and new friends. Remembering that, while we don’t know what happened next, God does.”

The six “founding fathers,” the organization’s first participants, helped break the ground together with organization staff. Among those who spoke at the event was Jim Sturdivant, whose son Daniel is one of the “founding fathers.” He described how his son’s participation had changed his family’s life.

“When I tuck Daniel in on Monday night, on Wednesday night and on Thursday night, it’s a little extra fun,” Sturdivant said. “He is so excited because, guess what the next day is? It’s Unless U day. Every time, every night, it’s the same way.

He is thrilled.”

For more information, visit unlessu.org.

—Emily Williams

space on Third Avenue. Now, an average of 215 men are served each night through Firehouse and its partner facilities in the community.

On Dec. 21, 1983, the facility first opened its doors and provided peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, as well as a place to sleep, to 15 men.

Firehouse Ministries still is in a capital campaign that began two years ago to raise money to pay for the project.

In addition to a recently authorized $1 million investment to be paid over the next five years from the city of Birmingham, the organization will debut a Bricks Campaign in February.

For more information, visit firehouseshelter. com.

—Emily Williams

Journal photos by Ingrid Howard

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Rocky Ridge Square Shopping Center. Recently, Publix announced its purchase of the nearby Western Supermarket location and intentions to redevelop the space.

It will be relocating to two separate locations nearby: one in Rocky Ridge Plaza, at 2512 Rocky Ridge expand into Avo’s former space.

A representative of Abhi said the restaurant hopes to operational in their second location by the end of March or early April.

Avo served its last meal on Sunday, Dec. 23. A week and a half later, Avo’s sister restaurant, Dram, also announced on Facebook that it would be closing.

“Dear friends, we are heartbroken to announce dram will no longer be operating in 2019,” the post said. “We fought until the bitter end, hoping against hope, that we could strike a deal with our landlord, but he had other ideas.

We have loved every minute of

MON-SAT being a part of this community. We will greatly miss supporting our 10:00-5:00 HANNA MB schools, their teachers, MB ANTIQUE Major Credit Cards & Layaways Accepted MALL athletics and everything else that mattered to our most loyal guests.

We had hoped to be here for generations, so this is a hard blow.

Cheers to all the friends we made along the way and to the many memories we shared.”

Both restaurants opened in 2009 and were developed

by Tom Sheffer, who is also involved in Jackson’s Bar & Bistro To: 323-6014 and Icehouse. According to a AD PROOF the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the205-824representative from Dram, ShefferThis is yourFrom: Overfrom The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: has no future plans to open a January issue.

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Date:1, 2019 January 20168 restaurant at this time.

Clotheshorse Is Relocating, Expanding in Rocky Ridge

The Clotheshorse, a familyowned consignment boutique, is moving and expanding in Rocky Ridge.

Starting Jan. 15, the Clotheshorse will be moving out of its location in

Avo/Dram Restaurants Announce Closings Two popular Mountain Brook establishments, Avo and Dram, have recently closed.

Avo, which operated upstairs from Dram Whiskey Bar at 2721 Cahaba Road, was the first to announce its closure in a Facebook post on Dec. 13.

“Cheers to TEN YEARS of business!” the restaurant wrote in the Dec. 13 post. “Thank you to our loyal friends and patrons.”

Abhi, an asian cuisine and sushi restaurant that currently operates at The Summit, has plans to

exterior, such as the window panes and posts, and she plans to add a swinging bed to the front porch.

“Hopefully, it will be a cozy place for people to hang out,” she said.

Road, Suite 104; and the other at the barn on 3365 Morgan Drive.

The Rocky Ridge Plaza location will exclusively sell women’s clothing. The second location, the barn that formerly housed Artists Incorporated Gallery, will sell men’s, children’s and clearance items.

Owners Becky and Tim Sager – who live less than one mile away from their store – first opened the Clotheshorse in 1992, shortly after their first child was born. Becky Sager said she had been shopping consignment to save money, but there was only one consignment shop in the area.

“I was shopping consignment, and I thought, ‘Why do we only have one of these?’” she said. “I thought, ‘I can do this.’”

The couple opened the Clotheshorse, and they basically raised both of their kids in the store, Sager said.

The consignment boutique sells brands such as Chanel, Tori Burch and Free People.

“We like to say we take high demand brands,” Sager said.

She said the Clotheshorse has been a good venture for them. Now, she is busy in the final days before moving into her new storefronts.

First, she wants to restore the

Owners Becky and Tim Sager – who live less than one mile away from their store – first opened the Clotheshorse in 1992.

By Ingrid Howard

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 11

NEWS barn. An old photo of the barn, which used to be a dairy farm, showed it had a white exterior. Sager said they will restore the barn to its original color.

Then she will update some of the

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LIFE

12 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HEALTH FOCUS

Healing Through Hotworx Vestavia Resident Franchises Gym Concept After Devastating Fall

Play It Safe

Vestavia Hills Partners With Coach Safely Foundation

By Emily Williams

Five years ago, chances probably were slim that you would have seen Vestavia Hills resident Leigh Ann Allen at a gym. You were much more likely to have seen her at the tennis courts, where she would have been one of the best players.

But when Leigh Ann fell off of a secondstory balcony four years ago, she didn’t know whether she would ever fully recover.

She had bought, remodeled and sold houses six times before. She decided to try something new; she was going to build a house from the ground up.

She was almost done with the house and getting ready to move in with her three girls in August 2015. While the other two daughters went to church one day with her ex-husband, Chris, Leigh Ann stayed at the house with her middle daughter, Addy Katherine, to finish up her room. New hardware had just been installed on the door from Addy Katherine’s room to the balcony.

“I was so excited to see what it looked like,” Leigh Ann said. “So I get up there, and the door wasn’t shutting. The wind was blowing, and it was kind of sprinkling a little bit. It was getting water on my hardwood floors.”

She walked out to the balcony with her daughter in the sprinkling rain to see what the issue was. She gave a little tug on the door — it still wouldn’t latch. Then she gave it a big tug.

“And when I did – I guess I’m stronger than I think – I pulled the door hardware out, and I lost my balance because it had been raining, and I fell over the rail,” she said. “I fell onto the stone stairs.”

The fall was 17 feet, and she landed on her back. Blood was gushing from her head. Addy Katherine was still on the balcony, screaming at her mother to get up. But Leigh Ann couldn’t move anything from the waist down.

Trying to stay calm, Leigh Ann said she told her daughter to go inside, get her phone, and call for help. But since Leigh Ann pulled off the door hardware, her daughter was stuck on the balcony.

“In your best cheerleader voice, I just want you to start screaming for help,” she remembered saying to Addy Katherine. “Somebody’s going to hear us. We’re not the only ones that skipped church today.”

They screamed for about five minutes, but Leigh Ann said it felt like an eternity. Finally, one of their neighbors heard and was able to help them call an ambulance. Chris was just about to turn his phone on silent for church when he got a call from the neighbor. He and the two other daughters, Anna Leigh and Mills, rushed to the hospital.

Leigh Ann had broken her back and her pelvis. She needed back surgery and a pelvic reconstruction. She then had to stay in a wheelchair for eight weeks while rods held her pelvis together.

“I went from always being very active to not active at all,” she said. “I couldn’t walk for two months. … I was so depressed.

“It was a long recovery. You can mend broken bones and you can stitch up cuts and

The Vestavia Hills City Council on Dec. 17 voted unanimously in favor of a resolution to create a partnership between the city and the Coach Safely Foundation.

The foundation championed the Coach Safely Act that was passed by the Alabama Legislature in May to require coaches of athletes ages 14 and younger to complete a course in sports injury recognition and prevention.

“The High School Athletic Association has done a great job in educating the coaches for that level, but there weren’t a lot of mandates for the state in terms of all of these municipalities,” said Jack Crowe, who is a founder of the Coach Safely concept and former Jacksonville State University football coach. “So, we’re excited for the opportunity we have, and it’s gonna take some time. I think Vestavia Hills is the perfect example of a forward-thinking park and rec department to prevent a lot of these injuries.”

Vestavia Hills Public Services Director Brian Davis noted that the city’s Parks and Recreation department has for the past five years required coaches to take an online safety training course through Alabama State University, but funding for the course ran out about a year ago. The course taught coaches and volunteers about first aid, concussion awareness and recognizing the signs of overheating, among other topics.

Since running out of money, Davis said, the city has had its coaches complete an online course through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

By passing the resolution last month, the city pledged to require its coaches and parent volunteers involved in all of the city’s youth sports programs to complete safety training through the foundation’s program, as mandated by state law. The program is aimed at preventing and identifying a variety of sports-related injuries in children under the age of 14.

The course has been developed by Crowe and the Andrews Research and Education Foundation. It is offered free of charge.

“This particular age group … has special needs as they develop,” Crowe said. “So, what we intend to do is educate the parents more comprehensively in terms of what they are dealing with in terms of the (child’s development) and what’s recommended medically in terms of their training and competition.”

Crowe also noted that the foundation has partnered with Alabama’s Department of Public Health to police the new mandate, and it will create a registry of people who have completed the training course.

City Council member Rusty Weaver relayed his support of the ordinance during the meeting, stating that it has been of particular interest to him as a long-time youth sports coach and a father of two children involved in youth sports.

“Youth coaches should have, as their top priority, participant safety and particularly in regard to injury prevention and recognition,” Weaver said.

In Weaver’s opinion, supplying the community with coaches and volunteers well educated

Journal photo by Ingrid Howard

By Ingrid Howard

Leigh Ann Allen opened Hotworx in Vestavia Hills last month.

take care of bruises and all that, but the mental effect was tough on me.”

She tried to get back into tennis, but she wasn’t as fast, and she wasn’t number one anymore, she said.

“I used to win, and now I’m not winning,” she said. “And my competitive nature, I guess something I need to learn to deal with, but it was very hard and very frustrating.”

She started going to the gym with a group of friends, but this made her body ache. Her orthopedic surgeon recommended that she incorporate heat, ice or a combination of both.

She started out trying cryotherapy, and although it worked, it was expensive. Then her friend told her about Hotworx.

A Different Kind of Heat

Hotworx is a new gym concept that first opened in Mississippi in February 2017. The gym has multiple sauna rooms with temperatures at about 125 degrees and combines heat, infrared energy and exercise to burn more calories in less time. Each room has enough space for three people to work out and a video screen with a virtual instructor to lead the way.

Leigh Ann went in for a free trial, and she tried Hot Cycle first. This is a high-intensity interval training workout that lasts 15 minutes.

She enjoyed that, so she also tried Hot Warrior, a 30-minute isometric workout.

Isometric workouts consist of static positions rather than dynamic ranges of motion.

“I walked out of there dripping with sweat,” she said. “I just felt amazing.”

The infrared energy mimics sunlight in terms of boosting a person’s mood. Compared to hot yoga gyms that use conventional heat and turn up the thermostat, Hotworx’s use of infrared heat feels more like the dry heat of

Arizona.

In her free trial at Hotworx, Leigh Ann said, she burned twice as many calories as she would have somewhere else. For an hour after her workout, her heart rate stayed at a cardiac level, and she continued burning calories.

“Because we’re heating everything up from the inside out, it’s gonna take your body a good hour to get back down,” she said.

Since Leigh Ann was able to combine exercise with therapy, instead of sitting in a cryotherapy chamber after going to the gym, she said it’s more than just fitness to her.

Other benefits include stress reduction, pain relief, detoxification and skin rejuvenation.

Leigh Ann’s first Hotworx workout was in March, and by May, she was ready to take it a step further. She was ready to open her own franchises.

“I was like, I love this so much, if I can do anything, I need to give this to people,” she said. “If it’s my way to pay it forward – this is good. There’s so many benefits.”

She spoke to the corporate office and purchased five franchise locations, including one in Vestavia and one in Birmingham.

Since opening in early December, the Vestavia location has had more than 300 people sign up for memberships. Ruth Johnson is one of the Vestavia location’s first members.

“I enjoy the time (at Hotworx) where it’s condensed as opposed to when you have to be in an hour-long class to get the benefits,” Johnson said. “I don’t have a lot of time, so that’s number one.”

Leigh Ann said she hopes everyone can love Hotworx and reap the benefits, like she does.

“If someone can come and love it like I love it, then I feel like I can check it off,” she said. “I’ve done my job.”

See SAFE, page 13

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SAFE From page 12

not only in safety recognition but also injury prevention would increase youth sports participation.

“The emotional, financial and time commitment that parents make to allow their kids to participate in youth sports is significant, and sometimes the slightest deterrent can result in a, “No,” when it comes to the question of allowing their child to participate,” Weaver said. “If we as city leaders and youth coaches allow misinformation or the lack of education of our coaches to result in the, “No,” answer when the question of participation comes up, then we as a city have failed our community’s kids and their families.”

Tim Puthoff Named CEO of Brookwood Health Facilities Tim Puthoff, who has been CEO of Houston Northwest Medical Center, has been named to take on that role at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center and for Tenet Healthcare’s Alabama and Tennessee Group, which consists of a network of seven hospitals.

Puthoff will be responsible for overseeing all strategic, operational and clinical activities at Brookwood Baptist, as well as providing

LIFE oversight and leadership at the five hospitals in the Brookwood Baptist Health system and Tenet’s Tennessee hospitals.

While Puthoff was in Houston, the hospital experienced significant growth, Tim Puthoff including increases in admissions, surgeries and emergency visits, according to a statement from Tenet Healthcare.

During his tenure, the hospital was recognized as a Leapfrog “A” rated facility and achieved a “Pathway to Excellence” designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center and Texas Ten Step designation for maternity care and breastfeeding support. It also scored well above national averages in the AHRQ Culture of Patient Safety Survey, according to Tenet.

Before joining Houston Northwest, Puthoff served in several CEO and executive leadership roles with Community Health Systems and HCA, including roles with multifacility responsibility. Puthoff holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in health services administration, both of which he earned from the University of Central Florida.

“With more than 20 years of experience in healthcare executive

leadership, including four years with Tenet, Tim is an ideal fit to take the reins,” Tenet Executive Chairman and CEO Ron Rittenmeyer, said in the statement. “His demonstrated track record and breadth of experience will serve our patients well. Brookwood Baptist Medical Center has been a pillar of healthcare for the community for the last 45 years, and I feel confident Tim is the right person to lead the charge to continue to provide healthcare excellence to our patients across Central Alabama.”

UAB Hospital Scores ‘Best’ Designations from Women’s Choice Award UAB Hospital has been named among America’s Best Hospitals for obstetrics, bariatric surgery, heart care and cancer care by the Women’s Choice Award, as well as designation as a best breast center practice.

The designations were awarded based on achievement in clinical excellence and patient experience and satisfaction, according to a release from UAB. To determine its Best Hospitals list, Women’s Choice Award used information from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, as well as accreditation information and surveys from thousands of women.

The statement said placement on this list makes the UAB specializations among the top 10 percent across the country.

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14 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

A HOLIDAY INTRODUCTION

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

T

he Ballet Women’s Committee and Poinsettia Men’s Club hosted the 51st Annual Poinsettia Debutante Ball on Dec. 27 at Vestavia Country Club.

Thirty-four debutantes were dressed in white gowns and carried bouquets of red poinsettias.

They were presented at 8 p.m. in the ballroom to an overflowing crowd. These young ladies were nominated in the spring of their sophomore years in college and are presented in their junior years.

Twenty-five junior debutantes were presented in red gowns and carried bouquets of white roses.

The junior debutantes are seniors in high school.

Guests entered the ballroom to be greeted by Christmas greenery, white lights and sparkling gold ribbons, all designed by Rick Whitley.

The evening began with a private presentation of the debutantes at the Benefactor’s Dinner, sponsored by the Poinsettia Men’s Club. The dinner was coordinated

by Sue Ellen Summers.

Following the dinner, the debutantes were presented in the ballroom by the master of ceremony, Don Mosley of Sounds of Birmingham. Judith Hicks played the harp during the presentation of the debutantes. The girls then danced their first waltzes with their fathers or escorts.

AZ Izz provided the musical entertainment.

The evening’s festivities were coordinated by Poinsettia Ball board President Liz PhillipsGuest with support from Melissa McMurray, ball chairman, and Kelley Brown, debutante social chairman.

Other members helping with the event were Sarah Bryan, Erin Burton, Cathy Donze, Lianne

Ballet Women’s Committee Presents 2018 Poinsettia Debutante Ball

Emily McLean, Maddie Henkey, Morgan Brown and Leighton Martin.

Alexandra Savage and Mary Kate Gorham

Katharine Buchanan, Anne Hughes, Elizabeth Morrissette and Anna Crawford.

Elizabeth Boston, Gabrielle Turnbough, Lindsey Spivey and Elizabeth King.

Laine Brock and Rachel Nesbitt.

Hand, Ann Marie Harvey, Sandy Johnson, Carla Nesbitt, Leigh Ann Smyth, Shannon Stewart, Ashley Stockard, Tammy Towns, Kelly Troiano and Stephanie Whisenhunt.

Aiding in the festivities were Sharon Maddox, president of the Ballet Women’s Committee, and Clint Beasely, president of the Poinsettia Men’s Club. ❖

Liz Guest, Melissa McMurray, Sharon Maddox and Kelley Brown.

Margaret and Matt Farris.

Mary Elizabeth and Charlie Carlton.

Daniel and Hannah Pahos.

Kendall Gause and Ty Roberts.

Hope and Russ Ward.

Alli and David Walters.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 15

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2018 Poinsettia Debutante Ball

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16 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL

HOLIDAY DEBUT

Photos by Dee Moore

Twenty-two Young Women Presented at the Redstone Club’s Christmas Ball

Elinor Brown Carter, Mildred Eugenia Stutts, Sarah Walker Alford, Helen Oliver Little and Mary Callaway Anderson.

Mary Keller Greene, Brooke Frances Tucker, Emily Ruffner Hillhouse and Lillian Harris Simpson.

Margaret Phillips Murray, Katherine Gail Durkee, Margaret Allyn Pratt Given, Anna Catherine Gillespy and Margaret Drennen Murray.

Sarah Grace Lindsey, Paley Robinson Smith, Mary Evelyn Sprain and Kathryn Toy Littleton.

Ellen Elizabeth deBerniere Given, Eleanor Elizabeth Naff, Louise Searcy Shearer and Abigail Elizabeth Oliver.

Redstone Club President George C. Thompson and wife Nancy, with ball chairman C. Duncan Hulsey II and wife Kelly.

The Redstone Club’s 111th annual Christmas Ball was held Dec. 22 at the Country Club of Birmingham. More than 150 members of the Redstone Club and their guests attended the celebration and debutante presentation.

President of this year’s ball was George C. Thompson, who attended with his wife, Nancy. Ball chairman was C. Duncan Hulsey II, who attended with his wife, Kelly. The floor committee chairman was Edward Rosamond Christian, who attended the ball with his wife, Emily.

Sybil Brooke Sylvester and her team at Wildflower Designs installed the decorations for the seated dinner, which preceded the ball, and the East Room of the club, where the presentation was conducted.

Classic winter green and white elements colored both areas. Most strikingly, a pair of head-high, gown-shrouded trees, resembling deep woods debutantes, greeted guests on

either side of the East Room entryway. The ballroom was hung with flowing white drapes and lit by the soft glow of tiny Christmas lights.

This year’s presentation class included 22 young women, all college seniors, from a wide range of schools around the country.

The presentees wore traditional long white dresses and gloves and carried simple flower bouquets, a complement to the black tuxedo tails worn by their escorts.

Overseeing the class were Ladies Committee members Mrs. Courtenay R. Bloodworth (Kim), Mrs. Henry Claiborne Crommelin (Jane Houston) and Mrs. Arthur Key Foster III (Walton).

At the ball luncheon, held Dec. 21 at the Mountain Brook Club, the presentees were introduced to club members and briefed on the background of the event and the club itself.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the 1968 presentee class, several of the 16 women presented that year were present at the event.

The “golden girls” of the class of 1968 were Nancy Swann Estes Chilton, Isabel Anderson Comer, Edith Rushton Johnston Crook, Catherine Swann DeBardeleben, Diane Elizabeth Johnson Fitzgerald, Lula Turlington Blackwell Hafner, Elizabeth Terry Taylor Hamilton, Mary Tansill Heslip Hille, Martha Marbury McCullough Hiden, Robley Munger Hood, Anne Moore Kinney, Olivia Turlington Miller Ludington, Loyer Lawton Ager Osbun, Mary Denham England Proctor, Innes Comer Smith Richards and Charlotte Haxall Noland Weaver Rose.

The ball followed a members-only cocktail party and dinner, spread between the Country Club of Birmingham’s East Room

and dining rooms.

Music chairman John R. Simpson arranged the evening’s accompaniment. For the cocktail party and the presentation, the Sonny Harris Trio Band set the musical atmosphere. Following the presentation, the Perfect Ten Band out of Atlanta took the stage, turning the formal setting into a rocking dance hall.

The 2018 Redstone Club officers and board of governors members are: George C. Thompson, president; Gregory S. Curran, vice president; J. Bailey Knight III, secretary-treasurer; James H. Hancock Jr., traditions chairman; J. Reese Murray III, finance chairman; board of governors members Courtenay R. Bloodworth, Robert M. Couch, Evans J. Dunn, Joseph M. Farley Jr., Claude B. Nielsen, William B. Wahlheim Jr.; and Arthur Key Foster III, camp chairman. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Winter Wonderland

The Gaieties held its annual Christmas Ball on Dec. 7 at the Country Club of Birmingham.

Party chair Susan Dasher and her committee – including Judy Feagin, Kay Wooten, Margaret Ritchie and Kelley Gage – transformed the East Room into a silver and white Winter Wonderland.

Ray Jordan of Flowerbuds created centerpieces of white roses, lilies, hydrangea, mixed greenery and sparkling branches.

Visiting with friends during cocktail hour were Lucy and Dan Allison, Joe McCracken and Doris White Ann and John Baker, Glynis and Sonny Jones, Donne Martha Bradford and Jack and Patrick Toomey, Joyce and Powers, Dana and Pete McCarn, Jim Lott, Doris and Jim Wilson, Brownie and Barry Evens, Betty Leah and Robby Hazzard, Shook-Douty, Millie and John Margie and Sid Davis, Hettie and Curtis, Pam and Rick Kilgore, Lynn and Steve Briggs, Becky and Howard Hall, Susie and Eddie Kissel, Gail and Charlie Sharp, Kirby Sevier, Virginia and Doris White and Joe Tommy Tucker, Jackie and Bruce McCracken.

MacClary, Kathleen and George Petznick, Mary and Terrell After a dinner of beef tenderSpencer, and Marjorie Forney. loin, roasted asparagus, mushroom Also spotted were Cathy and Jack risotto and English trifle, Gaieties Echols, Beverly and John McNeil, President Barbara Stone welcomed Lori Davis and Axel Bolvig, new members to the group.

Date:

Photo special to the Journal

Gaieties Sparkle at Christmas Ball

To: From:

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 17

SOCIAL New members included Barbara Thompson with Richard, Leila Anne Rowand with Robby, Anne Heppenstall, Spence Stallworth with David, Virginia Wright, Leslie Naff with Blevins, Frances Faulconer with Hunter, Mary Cobb with Bobby, Katie Howard with Bobby, and Tempie Sharley with Todd.

Also attending were Kim and Corbin Day, Louise and Sharp Gillespy, Katherine and John Kettig, Catherine and Lee Styslinger, Janie and Walter Wilson, Shelley and Jerry Clark, Robin and Brad Kidd, Jane Morris, Patty Bromberg and Bo Jemison, Barbara and Win Bair, Helen and Walter Pittman, Diana and Tom Gester, Carolyn and Will Ratliff, Martha and Tom Roberts, Bettie Boyd and Brian Sullivan, Joy and Lee Cooper, Carolyn Reed and Marjorie and Jay Johnston. ❖

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Linda Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 April This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the April 19, 2018 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

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

Thank you for your prompt attention.

18 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

SOCIAL

Don't Miss the Boat!

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Prelude to the Holidays

Members of the Birmingham Music Club Guild recently attended the Prelude to the Holidays, the club’s annual Christmas party, at the home of Cornelia and Joe LaRussa on Canterbury Road in Mountain Brook.

Guests mixed and mingled among the fresh greenery, Christmas arrangements and holiday lighting while eating specialty hors d’oeuvres created by Guild members, including Tom Lamkin’s famous tenderloins.

Guild members spilled into the courtyard under a festively lit big tent.

Cheree and Eric Carlton.

President Laura and David Bryan, Michele and Rodney Rushing, party chair Cheree and Eric Carlton, Lesley and Sterling DeRamus, Some exclusions Cheryl and Adrian Blackmon, Anne and Tom Lamkin, Sandy Eichelberger, Liz and Tom Warren, Linda and Bob Lazar, Susan and Wyatt Haskell, Roberta and Jim Atkinson, Carolyn and Thad Long, Nan and Phil 2830 18th Street South • Homewood, AL 35209 Teninbaum, Matt and 205-879-3986 • Mon.-Sat. 9:30 - 5:30 Sarah Rich, Sandra and Nancy and Kevin Canada.

Elam Holley, Susanne and Jeff Thomas, Sharon and Chip : Tricia and Julie Denton, Judy and Jim Haise, Fran and Buddy om: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., Howard, Lochrane and 205-824-1246, fax Mell Smith, Pat and ate: Dec. 2018 Perry Grant, Jennifer andthe Frederic Smith, This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for Enslen and Eric Crowe, January 10, 2019 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Martha Lamberth, Anna Williams, Please make sure all information is correct, Margaret Hubbard, including address and phone number! Russell Kilgore, Judy and Edward Wiggins, Linda and Erick Thank you for your prompt attention.

Cooper, Jocelyn and Jim Palmer, Kathie Lesley and Sterling DeRamus.

Ramsey, Nancy and Kevin Canada, Elaine and Oliver Clark, Janine and A.D. Goode, Ann Vrocher, Anna Williams and Eloise Williams gathered around Eric Carlton as he led the crowd in Christmas songs. ❖

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Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 19

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On Dasher, On Dancer ...

REYndeer Run Funds Technology for Holy Family Cristo Rey

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Your wedding, Your style.

Doug and Niamh Fields and Brandon Glass.

The streets of Birmingham were filled with holiday cheer as runners dressed in seasonal gear took off from Cahaba Brewing Company on Dec. 16 in the annual REYndeer of Hope 5K. Proceeds from the annual event will help expand Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School’s technology for students and teachers.

Festivities included running off Christmas cookie calories and consuming more calories in the form of Cahaba brews. There also was a raffle of prizes. ❖

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Photos special to the Journal

20 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

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From left, Lisa, Caldwell and Mary Tynes Flake with Mary Ruth Caldwell.

Christmas Fellowship Kappa Delta Alums Gather at Home for the Holidays

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The Mountain Brook Kappa Delta Alumnae Association held its annual Christmas luncheon Dec. 19 at the home of Mary Ruth Caldwell.

Alumnae, collegians, daughters and granddaughters enjoyed lunch and generously contributed to the Children’s of Alabama Intervention and Prevention Services.

Those attending the party were Lisa and daughters Caldwell and Mary Tynes Flake; Susan and Bay Matthews; Robin and Mallie Reed; Isabelle Lawson; Andrea Statham; Susanne, Luci and Mary Coley McMillan; Warren Cain; Kathryn Keith; Alice and Natalie Womack; Ann Bethea; Melissa Seton; Leigh Anne and Catherine Haas; Ivey, Murray and Kate Brown; Crispin Cantrell; Emily and Eliza Beaumont; Margaret Watson; Gates and Emilie Brown; Martha, Isabelle and Madeline DeBuys; Kerri and Lucy Windle; Murray Priester; Betsy and Ellis Henley; Lane DeWine; Amy Knight;

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Mary Charles’ Doll House New, Collectible Antique Dolls 2820 Petticoat Lane Mtn. Brook Village 870-5544 Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

WEDDINGS

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 21

LongDistance Logistics

Photos special to the Journal

Wedding with Traditional Greek Charm More Than Worth the Effort for Mountain Brook Couple

By Ingrid Howard

W

hen Terpsithea Christou moved to Alabama from her hometown in Ioannina, Greece, she originally thought she’d move back home once she finished her orthodontics residency.

But a few things kept her in the States, one of them being Jon Allen Bernstein.

One of Christou’s fellow residents was engaged to one of Bernstein’s good friends. The now-husband and wife tried for six months to introduce Bernstein and Christou, but Christou kept saying no.

“I hadn’t been dating anybody for like four years,” she said. “It just didn’t happen.”

Finally, Christou’s friend invited her to go out for drinks during their second year of residency, disguising the outing as a girls’ night out. “Make sure you look cute,” Christou’s friend said.

Christou agreed, and when she arrived, Bernstein was there, too. Within five years, Bernstein popped the question. The two began planning their destination wedding in Greece.

Planning a wedding halfway across the world would be difficult for any bride, but Christou and Bernstein faced unique challenges.

“The paperwork was very difficult because getting

Top, after the wedding the couple visited Vikos Gorge.

Above, the wedding ceremony was held in a 450-yearold Greek Orthodox Church. Left, Jon Allen Bernstein and Terpsithea Christou share a kiss as they exit the church.

married to a foreigner – John was a foreigner for Greece – it requires so much paperwork,” Christou said. “My mom thought at some point she wasn’t going to make it.”

Additionally, the St. Maria Orthodox Church had booked a wedding before and a wedding after the couple’s 7 p.m. ceremony time. They were informed of this one week before their ceremony when a panicked florist called worried she wouldn’t have enough time to set up the flowers.

See GREEK WEDDING, page 28

22 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

The Birmingham Museum of Art

The Birmingham Museum of Art is an elegant and modern venue, suited to host any wedding event, such as engagement parties, bridal luncheons, teas and showers down to the ceremony and reception. ”If you choose the Museum for your wedding, you can utilize all of our event spaces – Oscars Café with the dramatic spiral staircase; the Eighth Ave. Lobby, which has the Dale Chihuly colorful blown glass adorning the wall; and the multi-level Charles Ireland Sculpture Garden outside,” said Special Events Manager Jestina Howard, above. “All of the galleries in the Museum will also be open during your event, which gives your guests - who may have never been to the

WEDDINGS Museum - a chance to see our wonderful collections.

“We only book one event per evening, so you and your guests will have the entire Museum to yourselves,” Howard added.

“I have been an event planner for 20 years, managing and executing everything from corporate events to weddings. I have a level of experience that gives total confidence to my clients and allows them to relax and not worry that things will be handled. I’m passionate about what I do and strive to deliver the best experience to my clients so that they will book our venue again for another special event.”

Howard’s four tips for planning include: “One: Hire an experienced wedding planner. They can make the process of planning a wedding stress free and you won’t have to worry that all of the details will be taken care of on your special day.

“Two: Make sure all of your outside vendors such as florists, musicians, decorators etc. get a copy of the venue’s facility policies so they know what’s allowed and not allowed, how to load in, setup and load out of the venue so nothing is damaged.

“Three: Take 5-10 minutes to eat a bite and enjoy your new spouse’s company in private before greeting your guests at the reception.

“Four: Think about the age range of the guests you’ll invite to your wedding for seating purposes. Make sure you have tables and chairs or lounge areas if you have an older crowd because they don’t like to stand for very long periods of time. If you have a younger crowd you can utilize more hi-boy tables because they will probably dance more and not sit as much.”

Birmingham Museum of Art is located at 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., 2542681.

Bromberg’s

Having been in business in Alabama for 183 years, Bromberg’s has come to set the standard for fine jewelry and giftware for discerning people throughout the Southeast. The Registry at Bromberg’s is no exception. The experts at Bromberg’s locations in Mountain Brook (Janice Bowman and Vanissa Hargrove, above) and at The Summit are available to help set a table that will be the focal point of cherished memories now and for years to come.

With an unmatched selection of fine china, casual dinnerware, crystal, silver and home decor, every couple that registers at Bromberg’s will find the perfect combination of gift choices for their wedding guests to select from.

Bromberg’s offers the most distinctive lines

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

of fine and casual dinnerware from around the world and also locally crafted dinnerware such as Earthborn Pottery.

Bromberg’s Gift Letter program keeps couples from having to deal with returns and duplicate items. For each gift purchased from a registry, a beautiful gift letter is sent to inform the couple. After the wedding, the couple can redeem the total value of the gift letters they have received for anything they want in the store allowing them to take advantage of special offers including a free place setting with the purchase of seven place settings. Other benefits of registering at Bromberg’s include discounts for attendant and hostess gifts and 20 percent off on non-diamond wedding bands.

Bromberg’s is located in Mountain Brook Village, The Summit and BrombergsBride.com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Christine’s on Canterbury

Christine’s on Canterbury, nestled just behind Gilchrist on Canterbury Road, is filled with a broad selection of items spanning categories such as gifts, paper products, fragrances, frames and linens.

“Linens are such a vital part of any home, and at one point in history one’s linen collection was an indication of status and wealth,” said Jean Clayton, owner of Christine’s on Canterbury, pictured above. “Today’s lifestyle is so busy, we find many women are attracted to tablecloths that never need washing and linen napkins you never iron. Both products have been well received for color,

WEDDINGS

Clubhouse on Highland

design, and quality.

“Monograms have been of interest for centuries, but the question is always whose.

We try to guide the bride on this decision; however, for many years linens were considered part of the bride’s trousseau and bore her personal initials.”

Christine’s offers linens for bed, bath and table. While white and ivory remain popular, color and design are experiencing a renewed interest.

Christine’s offers a small, European-style shopping experience. Color is abundant with options for all price ranges and free specialty gift wrapping.

Christine’s on Canterbury is located at 2404 Canterbury Rd., 871-8297.

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Nestled in the Highland Park Historic District, Clubhouse on Highland is a fine Arts and Crafts-style event venue fit to accomodate a variety of occasions, from fundraisers and seminars to rehearsal dinners and weddings.

“Established in 1947 as a clubhouse, it was built in 1910 as the finest home in Birmingham,” said Director Bob McKenna, pictured below, center. The venue boasts chandeliers, beveled crystal windows, a grand central staircase, a wrap-around porch and a European-style courtyard.

“A place where good things happen, supporting groups and individuals who are making Birmingham and the world a better place, our mission is to create more love and consciousness in our community and promote sustainable practices to be good stewards of our environment,” McKenna said.

The venue is fully furnished with a state-ofthe-art sound system, tables, chairs, linens and is open to all catering and other vendors.

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 23

“Birmingham couples and their families have requested the Clubhouse for their wedding and rehearsal dinner, to celebrate in its grand and warm style, with over 100 years of joy and laughter.” McKenna said. “Since the full renovation 12 years ago, we have been working with brides and grooms who desire old-world charm with all of the modern conveniences.” The venue can accommodate intimate dinners of up to 300 throughout most seasons and up to 150 during the winter.

“When planning your wedding, focus on the love and the relationship,” McKenna said.

“Have fun and enjoy the whole experience of creating a wedding and weaving your two families together.”

Clubhouse on Highland is located at 2908 Highland Ave. S., 324-9633.

Clubhouse on Highland "A Place Where Good Things Happen"

January 11 - February 2 (in stock or special order)

Christine’s Canterbury

on

{ returnsRoad to retail• 205-871-8297 } 2404 Canterbury

Host your event with old world charm and elegance, in the true style of gracious Southern hospitality. Originally built in 1910 by Molly and W.S. Brown, the fully renovated home now offers state of the art video and sound. Perfect for intimate meetings of 12 guests to large festivities of 400 people.

2908 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205 (205) 324-9633 • clubhouseonhighland.com

24 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

WEDDINGS

Jadore Photographie

Whether it is a diamond engagement ring, anniversary earrings or a special piece for your day, JB & CO can help you collect your heirloom.

Hoover-Randle Home & Gardens The Hoover-Randle Home & Gardens is a historic Southern estate that offers a beautiful backdrop for all wedding events. The 8,000 square-foot interior of the home and the six acres of extensive gardens can be customized to fit all your celebrations— engagement parties, intimate weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridesmaids’ luncheons and couple showers—elegant to casual barbeques to seated dinners.

Barbara and Ed Randle have always loved to entertain in their home. In fact, it has been a hub for family and corporate get-

togethers, private weddings and fundraisers for almost 30 years. In 2017, for the first time, the home was made available for others to make their memories there.

“We enjoyed sharing our venue with thousands of guests throughout 2017-2018,” Director Tahara Evans said. “The ‘cherry on the top’ of our first year was being named to the top five wedding venues by several organizations and for winning a Hoover Beautification award. We could not have asked for a better first year.

“The Hoover-Randle Home & Gardens is totally unique. I don’t believe there is another venue like it in this area,” Tahara added.

Hoover-Randle Home & Gardens is located at 2255 Tyler Rd. in Hoover, 957-

JB & CO JB & CO is a jewelry boutique owned and operated by John Bromberg, above. His boutique honors a return to an old-world artisan approach to fine jewelry. In an industry that is increasingly focused on mass production, JB & CO chooses instead to focus on the unique with specialties that include bridal, custom and estate jewelry.

Bromberg personally works with his clients to select or create just the right piece for the occasion, always adhering to their style and budget. Whether it is a diamond engagement ring, anniversary earrings or a special piece for your day, JB & CO can help you collect your heirloom. His selection of jewelry comes from destinations far and wide, from the finest houses such as Bulgari, Cartier, Hermes and Tiffany, as well as designers Elizabeth Locke, Raymond Yard, Lalaounis, Judith Ripka, Mikimoto, David Yurman, John Hardy, Rolex and more.

Bromberg, a sixth-generation jeweler with decades of extensive experience and longstanding relationships, offers the unique opportunity for his clients to purchase fine jewelry at an exceptional value.

“Collect with us,” said Bromberg.

JB & Co. is located at 1 Office Park Circle, Ste. 201, 478-0455.

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205.478.0455 • johnbromberg@JBandCojewelry.com www.JBandCojewelry.com

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Kathy G & Co. Kathy G & Company is a well-seasoned and experienced catering and event company. A bride that chooses to work with Kathy G can rest assured that she will meet knowledgeable events coordinators and respected chefs who will strive to execute her vision to the fullest. A respected name in the industry, Kathy G can direct you to the best venues, planners, floral companies, specialty rentals, lighting and design companies to make your wedding dreams come true.

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 25

WEDDINGS Kathy G & Company has been working with brides for over 30 years. From small intimate weddings at home to large scale affairs, Kathy G has experience in all situations. “We do travel the state as well,” said Kathy G. Mezrano, president and owner of the business, left. “Every bride is unique and very special to us. We design the menu to reflect the couple’s taste and style. Our event coordinators are “hands on” from the planning process through the setup and execution of the reception and until we put the “wedding basket” in the going away car, which is complimentary for all of our brides.

“When planning your wedding my best advice is budget. Even an overall idea will be helpful in designing a menu and will save time for everyone involved. We can design a menu to fit any budget and style. Also, find out when deposits and final payments are due.

“Consider all the guests attending, family preferences and the bride and groom’s favorites.

For example, many brides like to showcase the South when families are coming from other parts of the country. Time of day is also important in deciding the menu. Whether it’s an afternoon affair or evening event is part of the planning. Be sure the caterer is aware of any dietary restrictions.

“Check with your caterer about beverage services as well as food service. Cutting the cakes, packing food for family and a going away baskets are some of the services the we include in every wedding.

“Find out if plates, glasses etc… are included or if acrylics are an option. There are some wonderful options available in that area. Kathy G can handle all of the details.”

Kathy G & Company is located at 11 W. Park Cir., Birmingham, 942-4210.

Shay’s Jewelers For more than 10 years, Shay’s Jewelers has been providing customers with fine diamond and gemstone jewelry.

“When it comes to jewelry repairs or custom jewelry design, our knowledgeable staff, in-house gemologist, and experienced jeweler offer the highest level of customer service,” said Shay Morgan, owner.

“We provide free cleaning and inspection of our customers’ jewelry in store. Shay’s has a great selection of fashionable diamond and colored gemstone jewelry. We offer competitive pricing on loose diamonds. We also have a wide variety of anniversary and special occasion jewelry.”

Shay has been committed to the jewelry industry for more than 20 years, providing brides and grooms with the essentials needed for their weddings as well as bridesmaids jewelry and gifts for groomsmen.

Shay’s has a great selection of fashionable diamond and colored gemstone jewelry...

“We want you looking spectacular, so don’t forget to stop by and let us clean and inspect all of your jewelry before the big day!” said Morgan.

Shay’s Jewelers is located at 3301 Lorna Rd., Ste. 1, 978-5880.

STACKABLES

3301 Lorna Road, Ste. 1, Hoover • 978-5880 • www.shaysjewelers.com

26 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

WEDDINGS

Soirée

Soirée, a chic and sophisticated event gallery located in the heart of Hoover since 2017, offers a perfect venue for all your event needs.

“We provide a versatile and luxurious atmosphere along with exceptional services guaranteed to make lasting memories,” said Ariana Pellegra, Soirée venue coordinator.

“We feature two ballrooms, The Grand Ballroom and The Royal Ballroom.”

The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 450 guests (550 standing). The Royal Ballroom will accommodate 200 guests (150 seated).

Soirée sets an elegant ambiance for wedding ceremony, receptions, rehearsal dinners

and showers.

Team Soirée works with weddings, corporate and social events.

Soirée is located at 2132 Lorna Ridge Lane in Hoover, 783-5228.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Aldridge Gardens

Please Reply

Aldridge Gardens is a 30-acre public garden nestled in the heart of Hoover featuring beautiful woods, gardens, walking trails and a serene five-acre lake.

“As the director of sales, I am here to ensure that each couple’s day is special and expertly executed from start to finish,” said Amanda Baker, pictured.

Ceremonies may be held at one of nine picturesque garden sites including the Pavilion, a covered, open-air facility and small ampitheater - all of which accommodate up to 200 guests. The arbor, shade garden lawn and pavilion provide a beautiful backdrop of garden foliage. Lakeside, woodland stream and patio sites offer stunning water and garden views.

The Pavilion and Kay and Eddie Aldridge Art and Historical Museum are perfect reception venues. The museum opens to a large brick patio, offering a spectacular view of the lake, while the gallery features works of noted local and national artists, including a large collection of Frank Fleming sculptures.

“Weddings can be inherently stressful but they don’t have to be. Surround yourself with wonderful event professionals and consider hiring a wedding planner to aid in the process. Be yourself and make sure to include details that you specifically enjoy.” Baker said.

Aldridge Gardens is located at 3530 Lorna Rd., Hoover, 682-8019.

Please Reply offers 19 years of experience for all of your wedding invitation and etiquette needs, carrying not only stationery but all kinds of year round gifts for every occasion. They have everything from start to finish for your special day including “save the dates,” stationery, wedding books, cups, napkins, bags for hotels, wedding programs, wedding suites, hostess gifts, bridal party gifts and more.

“At Please Reply we specialize in working one-on-one with brides so that they can find exactly what they’ve envisioned for their special day,” said Katie Smith, owner of the business, pictured above. “One of the ways that we can help them do this is by allowing them to schedule an appointment where we are able to use our extensive knowledge in wedding etiquette to find the perfect bridal suite. We love working with our brides and finding the perfect invitation. We build a relationship with them and they end up coming back to us for years for all of their paper and gift needs.”

Please Reply has an invitation for anyone, offering a variety of styles for any budgets.

“You do not have to spend a fortune on the wedding suite to have something gorgeous.”

Please Reply is located at 42B Church St., Crestline Village, 870-4773.

A SOPHISTICATED EVENT GALLERY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF HOOVER

David Bley Photography

Koozies. Bridesmaids & Groomsmen Gifts. Napkins. Save the Date.

Wedding Books. Specialty Items.

Bring this ad in to receive 20% off one in-stock item by February 28th.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Scribbler

The Scribbler is a fine stationery shop specializing in wedding invitations and all things wedding. “We are a dealer for great companies in all price ranges,” said owner Ginny Hutchinson, right.

“When we moved to our Homewood location, we gave up being a true retail shop with lots of gifts so that we could focus on paper and related items. This gave us the ability to become experts on the many options available to today’s bride. There are so many choices that we want to have the

Lowry-Maclellan

Kristin Brooke Lowry and Dr. Reid Austin Maclellan of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, formerly of Vestavia Hills, announce their engagement.

The bride-elect is the daughter of Mr. James Kris and Mrs. Lynn Andrews Lowry of Vestavia Hills.

She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wade Andrews of South Fulton, Tennessee, and Mrs. Janice Lowry and the late Mr.

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 27

WEDDINGS time to research so that we can guide them in the right direction. While we are open 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on weekdays, we prefer private appointments for brides.”

“When I first bought The Scribbler and C&S Designs in Crestline 10 years ago, I deliberately did not claim to be the ‘wedding expert’ because that takes time and experience. The stationery and paper industry has undergone tremendous change over the years, and I am proud that we have been able to adapt. I want to balance the importance of tradition and proper etiquette with current trends.”

“Every wedding is unique, and it is so important that your wedding reflects your style and values,” said Hutchinson.

“We love our brides and their families and like to think we treat them as if they are our family too. Come see us!”

The Scribbler is located at 2919 Linden Ave., Homewood, 271-8135.

Jimmy Lowry of Fulton, Kentucky.

Miss Lowry is a 2010 magna cum laude with honors graduate of Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, where she received a bachelor’s degree in theater arts and media production.

She was a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, Golden Key International Honor Society, Phi Beta Kappa Society, Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Gamma Beta Phi Society, Dean’s List, National Dean’s List, Who’s Who Among Students in America’s Colleges and Universities, Meredith Wilson Theatre Scholarship Recipient, and Delta Gamma sorority, where she was the director of alumna relations.

She is currently a member of the Junior League of Chattanooga, Laurelwood Garden Club of Lookout Mountain and Daughters of the American Revolution. Miss Lowry is the founder and president of Little Lady Brooke Productions, a creative development shop and producer of children’s media properties specializing in etiquette and cultural immersion.

The prospective groom is the

Galbraith-Derencz

Carly Ann Galbraith and Alexander Edward Derencz were married May 12 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. The Rev. Ray Remke officiated the ceremony. A reception followed at the Star Light in Homewood.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randall John Galbraith of Birmingham. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Evelyn Gurak of Birmingham and the late Mr. Stan Gurak and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Francis Galbraith of Tampa.

The groom is the son of Mr. Robert Edward Derencz of Ocean

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son of Mr. Robert H. “Scott” and Mrs. Lisa Catalina Maclellan of Lookout Mountain. He is the grandson of Mrs. Billie H. Pigford and the late Dr. Malcolm L. Pigford of Vestavia Hills, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Llewellyn Maclellan of Lookout Mountain.

Dr. Maclellan graduated magna cum laude with honors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2006. He was inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society. He was president of the Alpha Epsilon Delta Medical Honor Society and the Psi Chi International Honor Society.

He was a member of Golden Key International Honor Society, Dean’s List, National Dean’s List, Who’s Who Among Students in America’s Colleges and Universities, and Sigma Chi fraternity.

Dr. Maclellan graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 2010. He was class treasurer in 2006-2010 and vicepresident of the Tinsley Harrison Research Honor Society. He was

awarded the John W. Kirklin Foundation Research and Education Fellowship Award, the Bush and Posey Endowed Medical Scholarship, and the W. Hudson Turner Endowed Medical Scholarship. He completed a general surgery internship at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga.

Dr. Maclellan then completed plastic surgery clinical and research fellowships at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital. During this time, he also earned a masters of medical science in translational research at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Maclellan is an adjunct professor at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital. He serves on the board of Maclellan Foundation Inc., Christian Education Charitable Trust, RL and KH Maclellan Foundation and Diagnos AI, and he is chairman of Above the Clouds.

The wedding will be Feb. 9, 2019, at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church with a reception following at The Lookout Mountain Club at Fairyland.

City, Maryland, formerly of Fallston, Maryland, and the late Mrs. Sandra Derencz. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Adams and the late Mr. and Mrs. Edward Derencz, all of Baltimore.

Given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore a taffeta, ruched, fit and flare gown with a sweetheart neckline and a chapel train. The gown was embellished with embroidery and pearl beading. She wore a veil of illusion with a chapel train.

The bride was attended by her cousin, Eve Wald, of Austin, Texas, as maid of honor.

Bridesmaids were Katie Sotherland of Homewood; Caroline Thompson and Catherine Walker of Chicago; and Rachel Ohly of Austin.

The father of the groom was best man. Groomsmen were Zack Johnson of Homewood; John Pereira of Houston; Mike Ford of San Antonio; and Devon Dalton of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Scripture readers were Anna Hartley, Lizzie Hartley and Robert Byrne. Vocalists were Christopher and Sara Schiller.

After a honeymoon trip to New Orleans, the couple live in Birmingham.

SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS!

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

Hartley-Morris

Mr. and Mrs. Rory Marshall Hartley of Homewood announce the engagement of their daughter, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Anne Hartley to Taylor Smith Morris, son of Mr. and Mrs. Stacey Morris of Lanett.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Lorraine Hartley of Hoover, and the late Mr. Marshall Hartley and the late Mr. and Mrs. Herman Remke of Homewood.

Miss Hartley is a 2016 graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is employed in Birmingham as a pediatric oncology nurse.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Clara Morris and the late Mr. Paul Morris of Lanett and the late Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Sides of Valley.

Mr. Morris is a 2016 graduate of Auburn University with a master’s degree in accounting. He is a certified public accountant with RSM. The wedding is planned for October.

28 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Photo special to the Journal

WEDDINGS

Newlyweds Jon Allen Bernstein and Terpsithea Christou with their parents, Randy and Julie Bernstein, left; and Maria and Michael Christou, right.

GREEK WEDDING From page 21

Offering designer and custom designed engagement rings, wedding bands and wedding day jewelry

But by July 2018, just more than a year after the proposal, the paperwork had been finalized and the schedule had been resolved.

The night before the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a dinner at a venue overlooking the city. Then, on July 7, about 300 guests went to the 450-year-old Greek Orthodox Church to celebrate Bernstein and Christou’s wedding day.

Greek Traditions and Charm

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guests waiting outside of the church for the bride to arrive. Bernstein stood outside holding Christou’s bouquet of lilies, having not seen her yet that day.

Finally, Christou arrived, wearing the dress of her dreams: a sparkling ball gown purchased at Bridals

by Lori, the Atlanta location for the “Say Yes to the Dress” television show.

“When he saw my dress, he flipped,” she said. “He was like, ‘You were not joking. This dress is big.’”

Bernstein gave her a kiss on the cheek but wasn’t able to kiss her on the lips just yet. He would have to wait until the end of the ceremony for that.

The couple entered the church, their hundreds of guests following behind them. Despite the July heat, the church had no air conditioning.

Christou said this is typical of orthodox Greek churches; they are modest, she said, and supplying paper fans is a custom.

The guests stood throughout the 45-minute ceremony, following another Greek tradition. The couple did not recite vows, but instead had a ceremony filled with other symbolic elements.

The newlyweds spent a couple of hours after the ceremony taking photos together and with their families around Ioannina. Meanwhile,

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the guests headed to Hotel De Luc to take advantage of the open bar. It was going to be a long night; Christou said Greek weddings typically last all night long.

First thing after walking into the reception area, Christou and Bernstein cut their six-tier blue cake with golden stardust adorning the top two tiers – an idea Christou found online.

“I just saw it and I loved it,” she said, laughing. “I think I saw it on Pinterest or somewhere.”

After cutting the cake, the couple had their first dance. It took six private lessons at Alabama Ballet for them to perfect their choreographed dance, and even then, Christou said, she was nervous to perform the dance in her bulky ball gown.

Then the guests joined in on the dancing, having the chance to enjoy both American and Greek music.

There were two bands and a DJ at the reception, each offering a different style of music.

“That was a highlight for my wedding,” Christou said. “We had older people, and we had younger people, and Greeks and Americans.

And we would just switch the music every now and then, whatever people wanted to listen to.”

The first buffet was served early in the night, and because Christou knew the party would last all night long, she had a second buffet planned for 2:30 a.m. Finally, as the sun was starting to come up, Christou was ready to turn in, even though her friends weren’t.

“At 5:30, I went to the bar and said, ‘The bride says we’re closing the bar because I’m tired and it’s late.’” she said. “And my friends were fighting me.”

They ended the wedding weekend by going to spots within a 45-minute radius of the town to take photos. They visited Vikos Gorge, posed in a meadow as lightning struck behind them and hiked around rocks and caves.

After a honeymoon in Bali, the couple live in Mountain Brook.

Christou is an orthodontist, and Bernstein is a co-owner of Standard Iron & Metal Co.

FOOD

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 29

New in Town

FOODIE NEWS

SAVE THE DATE: TEACHING FARM LAUNCHES TWILIGHT SUPPER SERIES Jones Valley Teaching Farm is launching a new food event based on its popular Twilight Supper fundraiser.

The JVTF Twilight Supper Series will have seasonal dinners featuring award-winning chefs at locations in the Birmingham area.

The suppers will benefit the organization’s foodFrank Stitt based education model, Good School Food, in Birmingham City Schools.

Tickets are expected to sell out fast for a Feb. 21 dinner featuring chef Frank Stitt of Highlands Bar and Grill, Bottega and Chez Fonfon. It’s at 6 p.m. at Bottega, 2240 Highland Ave. in Birmingham.

For tickets and more information, visit twilightsupperseries.com.

High-Profile Food Folks Will Open Birmingham Eateries in 2019

NEWS ABOUT NIGHTCAPS: LEARN ABOUT DESSERT DRINKS AT HOMEWOOD LIBRARY

B

In 2018, Rodney Scott won the James Beard Foundation Award for best chef in the Southeast.

By Donna Cornelius

irmingham food has been getting pretty good press in recent years, but 2018 took the city to the top of the culinary charts. q Highlands Bar and Grill won the James Beard Foundation Award for best restaurant in America, and Highlands’ Dolester Miles was the foundation’s outstanding pastry chef. q The Beard awards also showed some love to Timothy Hontzas of Johnny’s Restaurant in Homewood by naming him a semifinalist for best chef in the South and to downtown’s Atomic Lounge, a best bar program semifinalist. q Jeremy Downey, chef of Bistro V in Vestavia Hills, won the Alabama Seafood CookOff in Bayou La Batre. q TV food guru Andrew Zimmern visited Birmingham in May to film an episode of “The Zimmern List,” which aired last month. q Birmingham’s Martie Duncan, a Food Network Star finalist, was on TV, too, as a contestant on Guy Fieri’s popular “Guy’s Grocery Games” on Food Network. q Blueprint on 3rd, Whistling Table, The Essential and Shake Shack were among new restaurants that quickly gained praise – and a loyal customer following.

While 2018 might be hard to top, 2019 promises to be an exciting year for Birmingham food lovers. Three new restaurants slated to open early this year already are generating a buzz thanks to the high-profile people behind them.

Automatic Seafood and Oysters

Chef Adam Evans will open his first restaurant, Automatic Seafood and Oysters, in Birmingham’s Lakeview neighborhood.

Evans is a Muscle Shoals native who stood out in Atlanta’s crowded culinary landscape. His signature seafood dishes at The Optimist helped the eatery earn Esquire magazine’s restaurant of the year award as well as a spot on Bon Appetit’s top 10 best new

restaurants. In 2015, he opened Atlanta’s Brezza Cucina with chef Jonathan Waxman.

Evans returned to Birmingham in 2017 with the goal of opening his “dream restaurant” with his wife, interior designer Suzanne Humphries Evans.

Automatic Seafood and Oysters gets its name from the building’s former occupant, Automatic Sprinkler Corp.

Evans will work with local vendors, mar-

Chef Adam Grusin is partnering with Nick Pihakis and others to bring Mile End Deli to Birmingham.

kets and fisheries to offer a menu featuring high-quality, simple seafood dishes. The restaurant will have a coastal vibe inspired by different shorelines.

A website, automaticseafood.com, is still under construction, but you can visit the site to sign up for email updates.

Rodney Scott’s BBQ

Rodney Scott’s BBQ will bring the South Carolina whole-hog barbecue tradition to Birmingham. The restaurant will be at 3719 Third Ave. S. in Avondale.

Scott is an award-winning pit master who cooked his first whole hog when he was 11 years old. He had a small family barbecue operation in Hemingway, South Carolina, when he accepted an invitation to prepare pig for the Charleston Wine + Food Festival in 2010. That appearance was a turning point in his career, and he got invitations to cook in places ranging from Australia to Belize.

He partnered with the Pihakis Restaurant Group in 2017 to open the first location of Rodney Scott’s BBQ in Charleston, South Carolina.

It didn’t take long for Scott and his restaurant to earn some pretty cool honors, including a spot on Bon Appetit’s list of 50 best new restaurants and the Chef of the Year title from Eater Charleston. In 2018, Scott won the James Beard Foundation Award for See NEW, page 31

BOURBON TASTING: EVENT BENEFITS MS SOCIETY

Taste a selection of more than 50 bourbons/ whiskeys at BourbonHam, set for 2-6 p.m.

Jan. 20 at The Haven, 2515 Sixth Ave. S. in Birmingham.

The event also includes award-winning barbecue sampling and live music.

BourbonHam raises money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Tickets range from $25-100. To buy tickets or for more information, visit bourbonham.com.

See FOOD NEWS, page 31

Photos special to the Journal

Chef Adam Evans is a Muscle Shoals native who stood out in Atlanta’s crowded culinary landscape.

Author and bartender Clair McLafferty will lead a discussion about sometimes sweet, sometimes savory dessert drinks from 6:308 p.m. on Jan. 18 at the Homewood Public Library.

“Drink Your Dessert” is for ages 21 and older. Tickets are $12.50 and include two adult beverages and light refreshments.

To buy tickets or for more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org. The library is at 1721 Oxmoor Road in Homewood.

30 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

By Judy & Julie Butler

So the Holidays are over.

Now what?

Every year we start fresh with new resolves to improve our lives. You know the ones: lose weight, stop smoking, join a gym or exercise more, be more responsible with spending, stop drinking and the list goes on.

Addiction to alcohol isn’t just a matter of making the decision to quit. For many it’s become a physical need, and simply quitting by one’s self isn’t possible and can be dangerous. The physical and emotional desires are still there.

Bayshore Retreat addresses the physical with 30 days of sauna therapy to cleanse the body, thereby eliminating the craving. At the same time over 30 hours of peer and master counseling combined with Life Skills coaching weekly helps address the psychological reasons. Unlike the ‘big box’ facilities that provide a 3 to 4 day detox and 12 step program; the home-like environment at Bayshore Retreat with only six clients at a time gives one a better chance of beating the addiction for good.

It’s about getting physically healthy and to the discovery of how the addiction happened in the first place. When we say, “no one plans on becoming an addict” we mean it.

Now is a great time to get help with addiction and a healthier lifestyle. It’s the beginning of a new year and we’re here to help clients make it a better year. Instead of making resolutions that you may or may not keep, make it a New Year’s commitment to fight the Addiction Dragon and each day can be a step to fulfilling that commitment.

Bayshore Retreat is different and can make a difference.

By Donna Cornelius

D

eciding to eat well – as in “healthy” – tops a lot of New Year’s resolutions lists every January.

“People resolve to eat better, to go to the gym, and by the end of January, the wheels will have fallen off this plan,” Mary Drennen said.

Drennen and her business partner, Tiffany Vickers Davis, own Birmingham-based Nourish Foods.

The meal delivery service offers fully prepared, chef-driven food and makes it easy to watch your calories, carbs and fat intake.

“We emphasize healthy meals and portion control,” Drennen said.

She and Davis met when they worked together as Cooking Light magazine test kitchen chefs. Both are culinary school graduates – Davis went to Johnson & Wales in Charleston, South Carolina, and Drennen to New York’s French Culinary Institute, now the International Culinary Center.

The two started their business in 2014. Drennen said in a 2015 Over the Mountain Journal article that they “saw a need in the community for high-quality, healthy meals, so we launched Nourish.”

Considering the company’s growth over the past few years, that vision was pretty spot on.

“It’s been a wild ride,” Drennen said. “When we started, we had five or six people who worked here. Now, we have 16 people who work full time. We also have weekend courier people, so about 30 total.”

Most culinary school students learn food-centric techniques ranging from knife skills to mother sauces preparations. As Nourish has expanded, Davis and Drennen also have had to learn about administration, sales and marketing, packaging and delivery logistics.

“Meals are delivered in metro Birmingham by couriers,” Drennen said. “We also ship four days a week all over the country. We ship to about 30 states. Colorado is the farthest.”

How do folks find out about Nourish? Carly Crawford, a marketing and sales coordinator for the company, said a large social media following helps.

“We market through social media and do ad buys on Instagram and Facebook,” said Crawford, who first came to Nourish as an intern from Samford University.

She said a new marketing channel is social media influencers – social media users who have established credibility in a specific field and have access to a large audience.

“Carly will reach out to them and suggest they try our food and then talk about it with their followers,” Drennen said.

Nourish was a much more local business when it started.

“About 99 percent of our sales was local delivery,” Drennen said.

“When we decided to expand our footprint across the Southeast, we

Mary Drennen, left, and Tiffany Vickers Davis, own Birmingham-based Nourish Foods.

GOOD

–and Good for You –

EATS

Nourish Makes It Easy to Keep Those New Year’s Food Resolutions didn’t look at changing our product but in changing our logistics in shipping and packaging fresh food.”

At the beginning of 2017, Drennen and Davis both felt they’d maxed out the word-of-mouth marketing method.

“We took a chance on a bigger business model, a bigger idea. We figured we might as well roll the dice,” Drennen said.

They hooked up with Yellowhammer Media Group, a New York digital agency that specializes in working with direct-toconsumer brands.

“That association has been really great,” Drennen said. “They get us in the door, and our responsibility is to retain customers.”

Nourish launched a new website last November and did a brand redesign with a new logo, new meal sleeves in different colors and a branded box.

“Customers now have a lot more ability and choice in what they’re receiving,” Drennen said.

Ordering meals is easier now, too.

“We send a text with a menu,” Drennen said. “People get a lot of emails, and we’ve found that text

messaging is better. It feels more personalized, and customers can choose meals from their phones.”

The Nourish menu rotates so customers have a variety of choices. Twelve to 14 entrees are new every week. Meals can be ordered in three sizes: for individuals, couples and families.

“We hired a new executive chef, Alexis Jones,” Drennen said. “She has a fine dining background and is breathing new life into the menu.”

Drennen and Davis said the stuffed sweet potatoes and the spaghetti squash pizza bake – a healthy take on lasagna paired with sautéed kale – remain popular menu items. They said they’ve been surprised by the staying power of the spicy beef noodle bowl.

“I do think our chicken salad is the best in town,” Drennen said.

“We use all white meat and make our own mayo from scratch. We have six to eight flavors that we rotate throughout the month.”

While meal kit companies like Blue Apron have enjoyed a run in popularity, those kinds of services involve actual cooking. With Nourish, there’s no prep work, mixing or chopping.

Photo courtesy Nourish Foods

Rehab Reality...

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FOOD

“All you do is put the food in the microwave or oven – and there’s no clean-up,” Drennen said.

Nourish makes it easy not just to get the food on the table but to stick to a healthy diet. Nutrition facts are on each product label and online.

Most of Nourish’s meals check the boxes for popular diets such as low carb, paleo, keto and gluten-free.

Subscription prices range from $64 to $90 per week.

“Our prices are premium, but there’s a reason for that: Our food is prepared by human hands with great care,” Drennen said. “You get not just convenience but peace of mind.

Our customers can feel confident in feeding themselves and their families. “ The two business partners also are moms and thus know how hard it can be for busy working parents to make sure their families are well fed. Drennen’s daughter, Betsy, is a fourth-grader at Mountain Brook Elementary School, and her twins, Robert and Felix, are 3 years old.

Davis’ son, Garrett, is a first-grader at Edgewood Elementary School in Homewood.

While Betsy is into healthy eating, “Garrett is pretty much living on carbs right now,” Davis said, smiling.

Nourish isn’t through growing.

The Lakeview building, which has been the company’s home from the outset, has become a bit of a tight squeeze.

“We’re on the second floor, which makes things a little hard, and we have five people in our little main office,” Drennen said. “So we’re looking for a new facility.

We’re evaluating buying a piece of land and building on it. Hopefully, this will start happening in the first quarter of 2019.”

For more information about Nourish Foods, visit nourishmeals. com or follow the company on social media.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FOOD NEWS,

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 31

FOOD

From page 29

TASTE TRADITION: HOMEWOOD FOOD EVENT TURNING EIGHTEEN

BUNDT BASH: HOOVER EVENT TAKES THE CAKE

Nothing Bundt Cakes in Hoover will host a second anniversary party from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 26. The bakery is at 3780 Riverchase Village, Suite 600.

The Bakery/Bundt Bash includes giveaways, entertainment, photo ops and appearances by characters such as Cinderella and Captain America.

Ten percent of the overall sales from the party will be donated to Make-a-Wish Foundation of Alabama, which helps fulfill wishes for critically ill children.

For more information, visit nothingbundtcakes.com.

GOOD FOR WHAT ALES YOU: WINTER BEER FEST IS FEB. 2

Shake off cold weather blues at the Birmingham Winter Beer Fest from 3-7 p.m. on Feb. 2 at the BJCC North Exhibit Hall.

Those who attend can sample more than 150 craft beers. The event also has a silent disco, cider garden, karaoke and more.

All tickets purchased online or by phone will be mobile entry. Physical tickets can be purchased at the BJCC Central Ticket Office.

Early bird, general admission, dayof-show, VIP and designated driver tickets options are available.

To buy tickets and for more information, including a list of participating breweries, visit bhambeerfest.com.

Hills Rotary Club IrIr nnVestavia City Chef City Chef Ir n City Chef Thanks to the generosity of these

Thanks to the generosity of these Participants, Community Partners and Corporate/Individual Spons Thanks to the generosity of these Participants, Community Partners and Corporate/Individual Spo supporting Vestavia Hills Rotary Club and our programs to improve our community and world. supporting Vestavia Hills Rotary Club and our programs to improve our community and world.

Thanks to the generosity of these Participants, Community Partners and Corporate/Individu Vestavia Hills Rotary Club

Participants, Community Partners and Particpating Chefs Particpating Chefs supporting Vestavia Hills Rotary Club and our programs to improve our community and w Corporate/Individual Sponsors for supporting

Particpating Chefs Vestavia Hills Rotary Club and our programs to

Ir n City Chef

Photo special to the Journal

Sample food and beverages from 30 of Homewood’s restaurants and eateries at the Homewood Chamber of Commerce for the 18th annual Taste of Homewood from 5:30-8 p.m. on Jan. 31 at Rosewood Hall, SOHO Square.

The Taste of Homewood has become a tradition in Homewood— showcasing the Chamber’s growing number of restaurant and food-based Members while providing the public a chance to sample some of their dishes, ranging from classic favorites to unique creations.

Those who attend will also enjoy live music while raising funds for the Chamber’s scholarships for local students and economic development efforts in the community.

To buy tickets and for more information, including a list of participating restaurants, visit homewoodchamber.org.

Vestavia VestaviaHills HillsRotary RotaryClub Club

Thanks to the generosity of these Participants, Community Partners and Corporate/Individual Sponsors for improve our community and world. supporting Vestavia Hills Rotary Club and our programs to improve our community and world.

Vestavia Hills Rotary Club

PARTICIPATING Ir n CityCHEFS Chef

Particpating Chefs

NEW, From page 29

Thanks to the generosity of these Participants, Community Partners and Corporate/Individual Sponsors for

supporting Vestavia Hills Rotary Club and our programs to improve our community and world.

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32 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

All In Mountain Brook Hosts 2019 Parenting Conference

William Gant a member of the Vestavia High School climbing team works out at High Point Climbing.

Work It Out on the Wall

All In Mountain Brook, an anti-drug coalition, is hosting a parenting conference Jan. 10 at Mountain Brook High School geared toward parents of children in grades six12.

Dicky Barlowe The event will be held from 5:30 to 7:45 p.m. and will include speakers discussing a variety of topics that the organization considers to be some of the most pressing issues related to today’s youth. As opposed to previous conferences,

this event will not include breakout sessions.

The event will begin with an opening discussion, “Never Stop Fighting for Your Family,”

by Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent Dicky Barlowe.

Other speeches include “Mental Health and Our Youth,” by clinical psychologist Dr. Dale Wisely; “Vaping: What Parents Need to Know,” by Dr. Susan Walley of UAB’s Department of Pediatrics; “Update on Underage Drinking and Marijuana Use,” by Bradford Health Service’s Abbey McManus; and “Raising Teenagers: Legal Complications,” by a panel that includes city judges K.C. Hairston and Turner D. Williams, attorney Greg Foster and school resource officer Richard Knecht.

The event is free to attend but registration is required. To register, visit allinmountainbrook.org/ aip2019a/.

When Kathleen Lawrence’s daughter, Lindley, was having trouble dealing with anxiety at school, Kathleen pulled her out of Vestavia Hills High School to take some time off.

But when the mother-daughter duo visited High Point Climbing and Fitness on U.S. 280, they were welcomed by a community of people of all different ages who were supporting each other and enjoying an interesting sport.

Inspired by a similar program at High Point’s Chattanooga location, the Lawrences helped create an Interscholastic Climbing League in the Birmingham metro area, starting with Vestavia Hills.

They had the help of Jessi Reddick, an employee at High Point who now coordinates the ICL in Birmingham.

“You might have a situation where you have people of multiple genders anywhere from age 12 to age 50, clustered around a bouldering route, talking about how to unlock specific sequences or do specific movements and cheering each other on,” Reddick said.

“That’s not something you necessarily find in a more traditional gym.”

With just Vestavia Hills on board, though, Kathleen was faced with a problem: the athletes wouldn’t have any other climbers to compete against. Then she met Liz Shults, who teaches at Oak Mountain High, during one of High Point’s Ladies’ Nights.

Shults climbed in high school and a little in college, but as she grew older, she didn’t have time to keep it up. But when she found out that High Point was trying to start an interscholastic climbing league, she was on board.

“It’s really versatile for a lot of

different types of kids,” she said.

“It’s a great athletic event for people who are already athletic and people who aren’t athletic at all.

You don’t need a preset skill base.

It doesn’t come with a jock vibe that maybe other sports do.”

Shults became the coach for climbers at Oak Mountain. She had only been teaching at Oak Mountain for a short time, though; she previously taught at Briarwood Christian. So after she started a league at Oak Mountain, she sent Brian White at Briarwood an email. Now, he coaches a team of climbers there.

“It’s fun because you get to spend time with so many friends doing something you love,” said Halle Beasley, one of Briarwood’s climbers. “It’s continually encouraging each other while you push yourself to do new grades. It’s really cool.”

To form a league at a school, a sponsor – typically a teacher at the school – gets a team together.

As long as the team is active, the sponsor has a free membership at High Point.

High Point has regularly scheduled instruction with the teams, teaching classes such as rope skills or movement and technique. The schools are then free to schedule practices however they want.

“I’ve seen a variety,” Ruddick said. “Like the whole team is here one time a week or different pockets of groups of kids are coming in whenever it fits their schedule.

And that’s nice because it’s also a student who does other sports, or maybe academics are super-overwhelming for them. It’s easy for them to come in and find time and enjoy themselves.”

Then there are competitions.

At High Point, the walls have different colored rocks, each color

representing a different level of difficulty. The climbers pick their color, stick to the route, then receive points based on how difficult the color was. The climb isn’t timed, but it must be completed without the climber hanging on the rope or taking a fall.

“The harder you get on the climbing grading system, the more it’s a mental puzzle as well as a physical exercise,” Ruddick said.

“That’s what keeps it fun.”

Each school currently has about 10 to 20 climbers in each team, and other Over the Mountain cities are trying to get teams together.

Benefits Not Just Physical

Kathleen said the kids “aren’t your typical cookie-cutter kids.”

Sometimes she will see a traditional jock struggle to get up the wall, and sometimes she sees a scrawny kid scaling routes that no one else can master.

Just as her daughter Lindley, now back at Vestavia High, was able to let go of her struggles when she went to High Point, Kathleen said she hopes other kids can feel the same way.

“From (Lindley’s) struggles with anxiety and stuff and not fitting in at school, we’ve tried to use this to help other kids,” she said.

In the future, Kathleen said, she’d like to get more teams involved, and she said she would like more opportunities for the different teams to climb or hang out together.

“It’s a great environment, and it’s a lifelong sport that you can do on to adulthood,” Kathleen said.

“And it’s a community sport – you learn as much next to the person climbing next to you as you do from a class.

VHHS Hosts Mock Interview Day On Dec. 7, Vestavia Hills High School hosted its annual Interview Day, inviting the school’s students, as well as those from Louis Pizitz Middle School and Liberty Park Middle School, to join in.

Students had the opportunity to be interviewed by leaders from throughout the community. Interviewers gave the students feedback on their performances and advice for future interviews.

Leaders interviewing students included Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry, above, City Council members Kimberly Barlow Cook and George Pierce and more.

Crestline Students Donate Toys to Brookville Elementary

Crestline students dropped off new unwrapped toys for students at Brookville Elementary School this past holiday season.

Student council representatives and counselors Leah Treadwell

and Liz Fry packed, loaded and unloaded the boxes Dec. 10 and delivered the toys to Brookville so parents could shop for presents for their children.

In addition, student council representatives sang songs and carols to the upper grades and read holiday books to the younger students’ homeroom classes.

Photo special to the Journal

By Ingrid Howard

Photo special to the Journal

Vestavia Mom Kick-Starts School Climbing Program at High Point

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 33

SCHOOLS/SPORTS

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Joy League Baseball Registration Dates Set for Boys and Girls

Above, Mountain Brook student Mary Frances Torbert, center is joined by, from left, mom Amy; Mountain Brook art teacher Susie Davis: mayor Stewart Welch and dad Mark Torbert.

Mountain Brook Mayor Organizes Student Art Gallery in His Office

An art reception was hosted by Mountain Brook Mayor Stewart Welch on Nov. 29 at City Hall to showcase the work of Mountain Brook High School students.

The pieces displayed on a formerly blank wall in Welch’s office were chosen through a Student Showcase and represent a variety of concentrations and mediums, from pencil to print.

The art will be on display until the spring, when room will be made for work from other art students in the school system.

Students whose work is on display in the office are Liam Aberle, Ellie Adams, Julia Baddley, Lior Berman, Ginny Carney, Henry Collins, Harper Cook, Campbell Doidge, Christian Fischer, Camille Ford, Massey Jordan, Margot Midkiff, Nancy North, Lena Pelham, Ella Pyron, Holland Tapp, Delaney Thomas, Mary Frances Torbert, Alex Washington and Nealy Wyatt.

OLS Students Perform a Living Nativity for Holidays The students at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School ended the year with a special holiday program to celebrate the season. The children presented a live Nativity and a living Advent Wreath as a part of the festivities.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade wore biblical attire while sharing the importance of Christmas with parents, grandparents and friends who attended the event.

Inspirational Christmas songs were sung throughout the event. The program included the “lighting” of a living Advent Wreath with a child representing each candle. In addition, students in each grade wore costumes related to the nativity theme. The kindergartners dressed as angels with halos; first-grade students held handmade animal masks to represent the animals that surrounded Jesus; the second-graders represented stars; the third-graders appeared as additional angels; the fourth-grade girls portrayed townspeople; the fourth-grade boys dressed as shepherds; the fifth-grade girls were dressed as Mary; and the fifth-grade boys were clothed like Joseph.

The sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students depicted townspeople.

Named Most Outstanding Wrestler at the Scoot Rohrer Invitaional was the Bucs’ Bryce Carns, above left, with coach Jacob Gaydosh.

Vestavia Comes Out on Top at Scott Rohrer Hoover Invitational Vestavia Hills High School, led by first place finishes from Peter Dazzio (172 lbs.) and Rob Barrentine (197 lbs.), won the Scott Rohrer Hoover Invitational on Jan. 5 at Hoover High School. Hoover took second place and Spain Park finished eighth.

Other individual winners from the Over the Mountain area were Nick Smith (115 lbs.), Hoover; Sullivan Tipton (128 lbs.), Oak Mountain; Alex Mason (134 lbs.), Hoover; Bryce Carnes (222 lbs.), Hoover; and Jaxon Bast (287 lbs.), Spain Park.

Joy League Baseball in Homewood will begin registering boys and girls for its 62nd consecutive season of daytime baseball at Edgewood Elementary School on Feb. 2, 9 a.m. to noon.

Registration will continue at the school, which is at 901 College Ave., each Saturday in February.

Games begin March 30 and end June 29. Boys and girls, age 4-12, are eligible to play. Cost per player is $30. Each team practices one hour a week.

Games this year will be played at Homewood Middle School, at 395 Mecca Ave., because of construction work at Edgewood, where previous games have been played.

Joy League Baseball has been an important part of youth life in Homewood since 1958, when the league was founded by the late John J. Smith Sr. Smith, an attorney, was serving as the league’s commissioner-emeritus at the time of his death in 2008 at the age of 96.

Last year, 184 boys and girls played on the league’s 16 teams. Joy League players do not have tryouts or evaluations to be able to play. Every player gets to play in every game. The league stresses the importance of having fun while learning to play baseball.

Homewood resident Tim Meehan, a former coach, is now commissioner of the league and can be reached at 913-3902.

Rob Barrentine of Vestavia celebrates his 197 lb. championship win withhis dad, Steve.

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34 • Thursday, January 10, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPORTS

ALL-OTM From page 36

the clock and keep the defense off the field. I think they complemented one another unbelievably.

“We played great defense, but one of the reasons that we played great defense is because the offense was holding onto the ball. Daniel Wilbanks, A.J. Gates and Stother Gibbs were getting 4 and 5 and 6 yards a play. They were getting a lot of rest over there and getting to suck down a lot of Gatorade in the meantime.”

Wilbanks, Gates and Gibbs served as the committee replacing Joiner, and when Wilbanks was injured midseason, Sam Higgins carried some of the load, too.

Returning wide receiver Hamp Greene also contributed to the run game, making five talents that allowed the Spartans to stay fresh.

Yeager added significant experience to his coaching staff this season, including defensive coordinator Robert Evans, who had been with the Bucs. Also among those additions were Blake Boren, who came to the Spartans from Faulkner University, and experienced defensive coordinators Richard Kelly and Chris Cournoyer.

“On the defensive side of the ball, we’ve got two guys that have been head coaches and every one of them has been a defensive coordinator,” Yeager said. “Bringing all of that energy and all of that knowledge, putting egos aside and realizing that we’re doing this for the kids and we’re doing this for one another made the thing go.”

That staff was given a lot of experience to work with, too. With 10 seniors, some of whom had been starting since they were sophomores, Yeager feared that if his defense couldn’t improve on its performance from a year ago, the Spartans would struggle.

The Younger Yeager Generation Led by Yeager’s son, senior middle linebacker Colton, the improvement was significant. For his part in leading that turnaround, Colton Yeager has been named by the area’s coaches as Defensive Player of the Year.

“Colton grew up on those practice fields and in that field house,” the elder Yeager said. “I’ll never forget when he first learned to walk. My wife brought him to our practice field, and I saw him take his first steps on our practice field. I’ve still got a picture of

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“We’d watch film at home and he’d try to that hanging on his wall. All ofALL these players MAJOR BRANDS ON SALE give me some pointers from back when he that have come through, he knows their names. As he leaves the program, I feel like a used to play defense,” Colton said. “It was really cool to always have my dad there with little part of all of these coaches and players me and to have him at my side throughout that have been through here is leaving with my career. It was really special for me.” him.”

Colton can’t recall a time when Mountain Coach Yeager and Colton didn’t interact directly with each other much on the football Brook football wasn’t at the center of his life. field, as the elder Yeager’s focus was on He grew up in the middle of it. offense. But during Colton’s career on his “Early in elementary school, I’d get done father’s team, the two enjoyed strategizing with school and come straight up to the pracaway from the team in their home film room. tice field,” Colton said. “I’d hang out all of

practice. I became the ball boy. Seeing those guys and the brotherhood that they had inspired me. I knew that’s what I wanted to do when I got older.”

In sixth grade, he committed himself to becoming a better athlete. He played football, baseball and basketball throughout middle school, but a stress fracture ended his basketball career in eighth grade. A two-sport star throughout high school, Colton has signed to play baseball next season at Wallace State.

Colton was born in 2000, one year after his father arrived at Mountain Brook. This year’s senior class was one that coach Yeager has known well their entire lives. He’s thankful for some advice he received years ago, advice that allowed him to balance his career with the ability to watch Colton grow up.

“Greg Morrow coached our middle school for years, and he pulled me aside when Colton was going into the seventh grade,” Yeager said. “We were playing Gardendale and they were playing Homewood. He pulled me aside and he said, ‘I know you had a game going on, but let me tell you this, dad: There are only so many grains of sand in that hourglass. And when they’re gone, they’re going to be gone. You need to savor every one of them.”

Spending a lifetime looking up to the greatest athletes at Mountain Brook inspired Colton. He credits Buddy Pell as being the biggest influence in his younger years.

“I got to spend time with him on several big church retreats,” Colton said. “I got to grow up watching him play, and he was one of the biggest influences in my life.”

Pell wasn’t his only influencer. Colton was granted an opportunity to see many impressive players and coaches throughout his youth. As such, his father is certain that he’s well prepared for the next chapter.

“I’m very grateful, because he’s been around some of the most incredible young men that have come through here,” Yeager said, “guys that he can model his life after.

The unbelievable opportunity to coach your son is more than I could ever expect.”

Colton hopes to stay close to the program when his baseball career allows it. He feels confident that his senior class set an example that a youthful unit will live up to next season. They’ll have big shoes to fill in 2019.

“We’re losing 10 guys on defense, so we’re going to find out how good those defensive coaches are,” coach Yeager laughed.

Homewood’s McBride Credits His Players for Soccer Coaching Award

By Rubin E. Grant

Homewood boys soccer coach Sean McBride wasn’t about to take sole credit for being named the 2018 Spring South Region High School Coach of the Year by the United Soccer Coaches.

In fact, he pointed to his players.

“The award is recognition to all players, past and present, for bringing five state titles to Homewood High School and the city,” McBride said. “This past team finished No. 5 in the nation, and that is a testament to their passion, determination and dedication to the sport and the school.”

McBride guided the Patriots to a 24-0-2 record in 2018 as they claimed the Class 6A soccer champi-

onship. During the season, Homewood recorded 20 shutouts and allowed only nine goals.

The championship was the fifth in school history and the Patriots’ first since 2014.

“This award comes down to the hard work of the kids on that (2018) team,” McBride said. “They bought in to an idea and kept it going all season. I do feel very honored to receive such an award, but I know there are many others deserving of it as well.”

The award will be presented at the annual High School Coaches Breakfast on Jan. 12 at the Marriott Marquis Great Lakes Ballroom in Chicago. The breakfast is being held in conjunction with the 72nd United Soccer Coaches Convention. But McBride won’t be there to receive it

in person.

“I am not going to go to Chicago,” McBride said. “I have decided that, with soccer season starting soon, and that weekend is my son’s 10th birthday and because I miss so many family things when the season starts, I want to be with them.

“My twins will be freshmen at the high school next year, and then my 12-year-old is playing ECNL at BUSA (Birmingham United Soccer Association) and traveling all over.

Things get crazy during the season.

I’ve spent most of my life coaching and watching other people’s kids, and it’s time I enjoyed my own.”

United Soccer Coaches honors national and regional coaches of the year with a plaque and recognition during the annual convention.

To qualify for this award, a coach must be a member of United Soccer Coaches, as well as have a successful record for that season.

In addition, the coach should exhibit the following: knowledge of the game (rules, systems, coaching philosophy), rapport with the team (respect of the players), team image (team conduct, style of play, performance), conduct on the field (positive behavior), involvement in local, state and/or national coaching organizations (meetings, committees), outside involvement (clinics, camps, conventions), community involvement (leagues, banquets), rapport with other coaches (cooperative, considerate), rapport with officials, and relationship with media (cooperative, considerate).

Sean McBride guided the Patriots to a 24-0-2 record in 2018 as they claimed the Class 6A soccer championship. During the season, Homewood recorded 20 shutouts and allowed only nine goals.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 10, 2019 • 35

SPORTS

Watford Dominates as Spartans Beat Bucs

By Rubin E. Grant

Hoover senior Ahman Ellington laughed at the notion that a point guard is a passer first and a shooter second.

That’s because Ellington does more shooting than playmaking in the Bucs’ half-court offense.

“It’s just the system and the coaches believing in me and allowing me to play freely, and me believing in myself,” Ellington said. “My teammates are doing a good job of getting the ball to me when I’m open.”

Ellington is the Bucs’ leading scorer, averaging 25.4 points per game while shooting 56 percent from the field and 43 percent from the 3-point range. He has scored 30 points in six games this season.

On an off night shooting, he still finished with 24 points in Hoover’s 63-49 loss to Mountain Brook last Thursday, a loss that dropped the Bucs’ record to 14-7 as they head into Class 7A, Area 5

play this week.

Ellington, generously listed at 5-foot-10, also knows how to get to the foul line, and that enables him to put more points on the board.

“Free throws are a big part of it,” he said. “I’ve been able to create contact on the perimeter. We try to get into the bonus early in the quarter, and once we’re in the bonus, any little foul gets us to the free-throw line.”

Ellington had nine free-throw attempts against the Spartans, making six.

“He’s crafty,” Hoover coach Charles Burkett said. “He understands the game and has an uncanny ability to draw fouls. He’s real quick.”

Ellington is shooting 88 percent from the free-throw line. In one four-game stretch early in the season, he made 49 of 50 attempts, including one game in which he made 15 of 15 attempts and another in which he sank 16 of 16.

“I just make sure it’s the same routine every time, make sure I shoot them in rhythm,” Ellington said. “I take three dribbles every time. I have to shoot it in rhythm as if it’s a jump shot.”

With the graduation of guards Jamari Blackmon, who now is a freshman at North Alabama, and Marion Humphrey, Ellington was thrust into a leadership role this season. He gives the Bucs more than just scoring, averaging 4.1 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals.

“This was his year, but he didn’t come out of nowhere,” Burkett said. “He’s a special kid. He’s been playing for me for four years. I

in that the Bucs didn’t have an answer for Watford, who has narrowed his list of college choices to Alabama, Memphis, LSU and Indiana.

“Trendon was the difference,” Burkett said.

“We fought hard and tried to hold our own, but with his size and ability, he just overwhelmed us.”

Senior guard Ahman Ellington led Hoover with 24 points, but he struggled from 3-point range early on, and 13 of his points came in the fourth quarter, when the outcome was no longer in doubt.

“Our margin for error is so slim against good teams that we can’t miss free throws and open shots like we did,” Burkett said. “We’ve got to be more consistent.”

Mountain Brook (17-3) entered the game fresh off two impressive performances in outof-state tournaments in December, winning four of six games. The Spartans went 2-1, including a 72-67 victory against nationally ranked IMG Academy, in the City of Palms Classic in Ft. Myers, Florida. They also went 2-1 in the Hoops City Classic in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

The trips proved costly because junior point guard Paul Stramaglia suffered a season-ending

called him up from the junior varsity as a freshman and started him in a win or go home game in the area tournament against Thompson, so that tells you something, what I think about him.

“His (basketball) IQ is through the roof. He’s very savvy. You talk to him and it’s like you’re talking to guy who has played for 30 years.

He’s 5-10, but he plays much bigger. He’s a true point guard.”

Ellington credits Blackmon and Humphrey for helping him step into the spotlight this season.

“It was a mindset to be more aggressive,” Ellington said. “I saw Jamari and Marion set the standard and I knew what to expect because they set a great example for it.”

Playing on the varsity since late in his freshman year also has been a contributing factor.

“I got called up with 10 games left in the season,” Ellington said.

“I remember playing on Senior Night and I started the next game.

I’ve been starting ever since. I’ve got a lot of experience.”

Young Start Ellington has been playing basketball since he was 7.

“I started playing at Dawson Memorial in the church league,” he recalled.

From just about the time he stepped on the court, he displayed basketball acumen. His dad, Thomas Ellington, has been instrumental in his development.

“He played football and basketball in high school and football at Tennessee State,” Ellington said.

“He taught me how to watch film

“We’re working on some things to try to get better without him,” McMillan said.

“We’re going to have to do it collectively.

Paul was our hardest-playing and toughest player. His effort and intensity rubbed off on the other guys.

“But this is not our guys’ first rodeo. They understand what they need to do.”

On Friday, Mountain Brook routed John Carroll Catholic 49-19 with Watford scoring nine points while playing only seven minutes in the first half. He didn’t play in the second half.

Despite the loss to the Spartans, which left the Bucs with a 14-7 record, Burkett is encouraged about what he has seen from his team this season.

“I think we’re playing good, solid basketball,” Burkett said. “We just ran into one of the best teams in the state. It was a good measuring stick for us to see how far we’ve come in two months. I’m satisfied where we are up to this point.”

Both the Spartans and Bucs opened Class 7A area play Tuesday night. Mountain Brook visited Spain Park in Area 6 action and Hoover traveled to Oak Mountain for an Area 5 game.

If the Spartans and Bucs meet again, it would be in the postseason.

and not to get too high or too low and stay level-headed.

“The film work helps put me in the flow, allowing the game to come to me and seeing things before they happen.”

Ellington hopes a stellar senior season will lead to an opportunity

to play at the next level. Right now, the only school recruiting him is Berry College.

“I hope to get more schools interested,” Ellington said. “But right now, I’m just going out having fun and letting my game speak for itself.”

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By Rubin E. Grant

player on him, he’s just going to turn and shoot, and if you put a bigger player on him, he can take them outside and knock down 3’s or drive by them because he can handle the basketball.

“That’s why he’s called a 5-star prospect.”

Hoover coach Charles Burkett knew going

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Savvy Ellington Thriving on Basketball Court for Hoover

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

When Mountain Brook took the basketball court at Hoover last Thursday, the Spartans had one big advantage, namely senior forward Trendon Watford.

Watford at 6-foot-9 created a matchup nightmare for the Bucs, whose tallest starter was 6-4 senior forward C.J. Melton.

The Bucs tried everything they could to contain Watford, at times double- and tripleteaming him in the post. But none of it mattered. Watford was simply too dominant, scoring 30 points and collecting 17 rebounds to lead the two-time defending Class 7A champion Spartans to a 63-49 victory.

Watford did his damage inside and outside.

On the post, when Hoover was slow getting help to his defender, Watford simply took a pass and scored easily. And when things got too crowded underneath the basket, he drifted to the perimeter and knocked down two threepointers. He also had a few put-backs, including a thunderous dunk.

“I knew they had smaller guys,” Watford said. “What I wanted to do was play inside and out. I feel I’m pretty good either way.”

Mountain Brook coach Bucky McMillan knows opponents have a difficult time matching up with Watford, the state’s reigning Mr. Basketball.

“He’s dangerous just about anywhere on the court,” McMillan said. “If you put a smaller

knee injury when he tore his ACL.

Watford scored 30 points and collected 17 rebounds to lead the two-time defending Class 7A champion Spartans to a 63-49 win over Hoover.

PORSCHE PORSCHE PORSCHE PORSCHE PORSCHE

Homewood’s McBride Credits His Players for Soccer Coaching Award.

Page 34

SPORTS

Thursday, January 10, 2019 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Watford Dominates as Spartans Beat Bucs in OTM Matchup.

Page 35

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

2018 ALL-OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM

MEMBERS OF THE 2018 ALL-OVER THE MOUNTAIN TEAM are, front row, from left: Antoine McGhee, Homewood; Crawford Doyle, Homewood; Rob Barentine, Vestavia; Jalen Henderson, Spain Park; Isaiah Ambroise, John Carroll; Gabe Wood, John Carroll; Hamp Greene, Mountain Brook; and A.J. Gates, Mountain Brook. Middle: William Mote, Spain Park; Braxton Hall, Spain Park; Clay Collins, Oak Mountain; Larkin Williams, Homewood; Gavin Lee, Mountain Brook; Colton Yeager, Mountain Brook; Alex Washington, Mountain Brook; Michael Mancuso, Mountain Brook; and Marcus McGhee, Homewood. Back: Mountain Brook head coach Chris Yeager; Grayson Kelley, Homewood; Zykeius Strong, Oak Mountain; Garrett Lepkowki, Hoover; Jeppa Kilgore, Hoover; Robby Ashford Hoover; Larry McCammon, Hoover; and Jabari Moore, Hoover. Not pictured: J.R. Tran-Reno, Briarwood; Michael Vice, Vestavia; Cedric Tooson, Spain Park; George Pickens, and Will Reichard, Hoover.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON Yeagers Take First in Coaches Poll; Hoover’s Pickens Top Vote Getter on Offense

By Blake Ells Mountain Brook entered the 2018 season with big holes to fill. They’d need a new quarterback, as Hamp Sisson had moved on to Furman, and they’d need a new running back, as Harold Joiner had moved on to Auburn.

When they kicked off with those positions being filled by a sophomore and by a com-

mittee, respectively, there wasn’t much cause for high preseason expectations.

But the Spartans stormed out of the gate with seven straight wins en route to a 9-3 finish. Their season concluded with a secondround playoff loss to Hoover.

“We were following a year where the offense led the team, but we had 10 guys coming back on defense,” said coach Chris Yeager. “The sophomore quarterback proba-

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bly worried me more than anything, but I felt like everyone was able to rally around him and make it work.”

For overcoming such difficult odds in the state’s toughest high school region, Yeager has been named by his peers as the Over the Mountain Journal Coach of the Year.

“We were a running football team,” said Yeager. “And I think we were able to control

See ALL- OTM page 34

Coach of the Year Chris Yeager with son and Defensive Player of the Year Colton Yeager.