1.24.19

OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM

SOCIAL

SPORTS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 24, 2019

House Calls Photo courtesy the Lemaks (Portrait); Journal photo by Ingrid Howard

The Lemaks decision to downsize opens up their former home to be the 2019 Decorators’ Showhouse SEE STORY PAGE 21

Renowned sports and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Larry Lemak with wife Georgine, left, and their two Golden Retrievers, Baxter and Jackson, in their former home on Cherokee Road, above.

INSIDE PUPPY LOVE

BACK IN PINK

GOOD DOG

Savage’s Lifelong Love of Dogs Led to Post as Grand Marshall for Jazz Cat Ball ABOUT TOWN PAGE 4

Caudle Joins the Crowd of Men Ready to Don Pink to Raise Awareness About Breast Cancer LIFE PAGE 10

Homewood Elementary Schools Welcome Two Facility Dogs SCHOOLS PAGE 24

2 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

Stay in the Loop

Murphy’s Law

Have you been missing out on local news and events?

With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the new OTMJ newsletter, debuted on Jan. 1.

Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater 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 8 NEWS 10 LIFE 12 PEOPLE

SOCIAL HOME SCHOOLS SPORTS

14 21 24 28

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.

A Not-So-Tiny House

A

On airplanes, I always try to wrangle an aisle ll of my children and grandchildren seat because, breathingwise, I have access to convened at my house over the holithe common area. days, and it was glorious. We laughed, In my perfect world, common areas would we played, we ate copious amounts of foods expand or contract depending on the number of you can only justify on special occasions. people they were hosting. What I need long There were nine of us total, and everyone had term, I suppose, is a tiny house with collapsa bed to sleep in and a chair at the table. The ible sections that could be pushed out to house was just the right size. accommodate my family when they come to When I am there by myself, however, my visit. For a while there, I watched the tiny house seems too big. There are rooms I only house TV shows like it was my job. It was visit weekly to vacuum and dust. addictive for a chronic organizer like me to see A lot of people in my situation choose to how the builders utilized every miniscule nook downsize, move to a house that is more oneand cranny for storage. Cup hooks on the person appropriate. It just makes sense. Nine unused portion of the ceiling? Brilliant. I tenths of the time, I don’t need all those rooms. applauded the fold-down dining table, marI am not a big person, 5’1” on a good day with Sue Murphy veled at the sink that transformed into a cuta comparable wingspan. My bodily space ting board, but when it came to the sleeping needs are minimal, but emotionally, my perloft, I hit a wall, or more accurately, I was sonal space requirements extend beyond my afraid of hitting the wall. Sure, you could person. Sure, it would be financially and In my perfect world, put in a sub-rafters window, but the idea of ecologically prudent for me to drive a smart common areas would waking up with the ceiling six inches from car, but I feel more secure with a little more expand or contract my face makes me hyperventilate just to metal around me. Housewise, same thing: I think about. like to come in somewhere between boxeddepending on the None of this makes sense, of course, but in and rattling around, and the square footnumber of people they I am at the age now when I do not insist that age depends on how many people are occuwere hosting.

I act sensibly all the time. In a few years, I pying the same space. can comfortably assume the role of fullI need room to breathe and the air confledged crazy old woman, but you have to tained therein. Out in public, I am always train for that. You can’t just jump into crazy subconsciously calculating square feet of from a standing start, not if you want to be breathing space per body in attendance. good at it. No, you have to give yourself a Crowds make me nervous. As a short perfew eccentricities along the way. Irrational claustrophobia son, I invariably end up wedged between walls of tall and my seems like a good place to start. only breathing recourse is to crane my neck upward. You can’t So, a tiny house with big breathing possibilities. I’ll work do that forever. Caves? Can’t do them at all. Not only do they contain a finite amount of space but there are no windows. The on that, but now I have to go. I’m running out of space.

(Breathe, breathe.) air you have right now, my friend, is all you’re going to get.

Over the Mountain Views With Girl Scout cookie season just around the corner, we asked Homewood troop members...

What do you like most about being a Girl Scout?

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. 12

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 love being a Girl Scout because I have so much fun with my troop.”

“It helped me come out of my shell and showed me that I love working with kids.”

Bree Hain Homewood

Kimberly Selzer Homewood

“Selling Girl Scout cookies!”

“Being with my friends.”

Marie Maske Homewood

Nelia Avery Homewood

Next Issue: February 7 Valentine’s Day

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 3

OPINION/CONTENTS

LIBERTY PARK

MAY ALL THEIR WINTER ADVENTURES LEAD TO A COZY HOME

P H. 205 -945 -6401 I LIBERTYPARK.COM

New Homes • Vestavia Hills School System • Walking Trails • Playgrounds • Swim Center • Tennis Center • Nature Parks At Liberty Park, the homes are built with energy-efficient features designed to keep families warm and cozy during cold weather months without running up extravagant power bills. Every home is equipped with a natural gas heating system and fireplace, creating an ultra comforting environment when the temperatures drop. Special R-38 insulation and Low-E glass windows help keep the heat in and the cold out while smart home systems allow families to adjust the thermostat remotely. The homes of Liberty Park make it easy for families to conserve energy and stay warm.

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All information and depictions herein believed accurate but not warranted or guaranteed and subject to change without notice.

All information should be independently verified. Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP, Liberty Park Properties, Lifescape Builders, LLC, Drummond Built Homes, LLC and their respective builders, employees and agents are not responsible for errors or omissions. All rights reserved.

4 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

Puppy Love

JAN. 24 - FEB. 7 Jan. 24 and 27

Savage’s Lifelong Love of Dogs Led to Post as Grand Marshall for 2019 GBHS Jazz Cat Ball As he finishes his first year on the board of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, Robin Savage of Vestavia Hills is preparing to be Grand Marshall of the organization’s annual fundraiser, Jazz Cat Ball.

The event, being held Feb. 9 at the Sheraton Downtown Birmingham, raises money for an organization in which Savage has become deeply invested.

“The thing I’m most impressed with is the dedication of the staff – how much they all seem to care,” he said. “They’re just good people.”

Savage was first formally introduced to the organization through his work at Robins & Morton, a construction and engineering company, when the company was approached to participate in a GBHS capital campaign about five years ago.

It wasn’t until last year that

‘There’s nothing fake about a dog. They’re going to react exactly like they think and I love that about animals.’

ROBIN SAVAGE

Savage decided to get more involved.

Seeing the way that serving on the GBHS board of directors had affected Tim Hightower, a business associate and close friend, led Savage to get more involved.

“I saw how caring Tim was on the board and it just sort of planted the seed that this is something I could really get into, that I could really care about,” he said. “It’s something that is both fulfilling for me and I feel like I can help them, too.”

Not only has Savage enjoyed his work on the board so far, he is able to use his professional exper-

tise, as president and chief operating officer for Robins & Morton, to help the organization search for a new facility.

“We’re in the process of trying to find property for a replacement facility that would bring all of the facilities together in one place: the county facility, the adoption center and the surgery and treatment areas,” he said, “whereas right now they are kind of spread out.”

“We’re going to find the right place,” Savage said. “The humane society is just a wonderful service and I’d call it an institution on behalf of animal care.”

The Greatest Dog(s) in the World

For Savage, it has been easy to get invested in his work with the organization because he is a lifelong dog owner and lover.

“Dogs are sincere. They’re honest and they’re sincere. There’s nothing fake about a dog,” he said.

“They’re going to react exactly like they think and I love that about animals.”

He’s had a dog in the family ever since he was about 4 years old, save the years he attended Auburn University to get his bachelor’s in building construction. Even then, he had a dog waiting for him at his parent’s house.

“My dog right now is waiting at the top of the stairs every night when I come home,” he said. “He’s just always glad to see me.”

Charlie, his dog now, is an Australian shepherd and the current “greatest dog in the world” according to Savage.

“I had a dog named Ellie when Ginger (his wife) and I first got married, and I called her the greatest dog in the history of all dogs. … Until Lilly came along – she was an Australian shepherd – and she became the greatest dog of all dogs.”

Raising a dog is also a great learning experience, Savage said, that gives a newly married couple the opportunity to tackle a new

Fireballs the modern alternative

What: The Library continues 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. 24, 6-9 p.m.; and Jan. 27, 2-5 p.m.

Where: Emmet O’Neal Library, Community Meeting Room Website: eolib.org Journal photo by Emily Williams

By Emily Williams

The Holocaust in Film

Thurs., Jan. 24 and 28 Friends of the Library: Vestavia Hills Fire Department

Grand Marshall of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s 2019 Jazz Cat Ball Robin Savage with June, one of the GBHS’s rescues. Along with some of her fellow GBHS rescues, June was transported to Humane Society location in Michigan last week to find a forever home.

level of responsibility. It’s a task both of his daughters have experienced, giving him three granddogs that he cherishes as well as his own.

One of his daughters has Scout, who Savage says is the most athletic, energetic Labrador retriever he’s ever seen. His other two granddogs, Macy and Maddie, are more laidback golden retrievers.

“Maddie is the sweetest thing that ever lived,” Savage said. “She would not hurt a flea. When my granddaughter was born and now that she’s just a toddler running around, she climbs all over that dog. Not only does (Maddie) tolerate it, she loves it.”

Funding for the Future

Having such a soft spot in his heart for animals, Savage said it was easy to become emotionally invested in his work with the GBHS. “They do so many good things for the animals, but they are also a people organization, too. They help people figure out how they can keep their animals.”

One of the major triumphs he’s seen in the organization over his past year of service is the addition of the Yes Save program.

Through the program, people who come to the facility to surrender pets are taken to one of the organization’s pet counselors to discuss their issues with their pet ownership.

If they are surrendering the pet because they can’t afford to spay or neuter it, the GBHS can handle that. If they can’t afford pet food, the center has a Pet Pantry Assistance program for which the owner may qualify. If they can’t pay their pet’s medical bills, there could be a solution to that.

“They find the root cause and

they try to solve it so that pet can stay in its home,” Savage said. “I think the figure is about 1,000 animals this year that would have been just dropped off are now still with their owners.

“We had a long discussion about this in our board meeting as to how to do this and if it was worthwhile,” he added. “It’s just been wildly successful. That is the one thing this year that we have done that has been the most impactful.”

Money raised through the Jazz Cat Ball goes to operational costs, helping the organization properly care for the animals it houses and provide services such as Yes Save.

In addition, the event will include a Fund the Need fundraiser to raise money to buy a new Tara transport, assist, rescue and adopt vehicle - for the GBHS. The organization’s current vehicle is worn out from performing its many tasks as a traveling clinic, a traveling pet adoption site and animal transport.

“A lot of the use for this is disaster relief,” Savage said. “So, if there is a hurricane coming, then they will send the Tara down there and they will start collecting animals out of the existing shelters and … bringing them north.

Essentially, they are freeing up capacity for lost dogs and cats as a result of a hurricane. It’s the same with tornadoes on a more reactive basis.”

Guests attending the Feb. 9 event at the Sheraton Downtown Birmingham, hosted by the GBHS Auxiliary, have a variety of festivities to look forward to. The evening will include a cocktail hour and silent auction, followed by a seated dinner. After a post-dinner live auction, casino games will begin as well as dancing to music by The Downtown Band. Tickets start at $250. For more information, visit gbhs.org/jcb19.

What: Join the Vestavia Hills Police Department to learn about their jobs and the safety and services they provide, hosted by the Friends of the Library. Enjoy coffee and 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 Website: vestavialibrary.org

Sun., Jan. 27 Learn to Skate

What: In conjunction with National Skate Month, the Pelham Skate School and the Birmingham Figure Skating Club are hosting a free event featuring free skate rental, a parent information session, skating demonstrations, games and prizes.

The first 20 participants to register the day of the event receive a goodie bag. One grand prize and ten door prizes will be drawn at random.

When: 3-5 p.m.

Where: Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena Website: For more information, call Craig Henderson, Skate School director, at 620-6448 or chenderson@pelhamalabama.gov

Jan. 24-Feb. 9 “Fun Home”

What: Terrific New Theatre presents this groundbreaking new musical, “Fun Home,” winner of five Tony Awards. The musical is based on Alison Bechdel’s best-selling graphic memoir.

When: Thurs., Fri. and Sat. nights, 8 p.m.; and Sundays, 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

ABOUT TOWN 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

what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Showcased hit songs include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ on,” “Hound Dog” and more.

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

Where: Virginia Samford Theatre Mainstage Website: virginiasamfordtheatre. org Photo courtesy the Lyric Theatre

Lyric Masquerade Ball

Jan. 24-March 16 Stitching History from the Holocaust

What: The Birmingham Holocaust Education Center presents programs and docent-led tours providing historical background and details about Hedy Strnad, a dressmaker in Prague in the 1930s and her husband Paul who perished in the Holocaust but live on in this haunting exhibit that tells their story. This is an original exhibit created by and on loan from Jewish Museum Milwaukee.

When: AEIVA hours are Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sat., noon-6 p.m.

Where: Abroms Engel Institute for the Visual Arts Website: For questions about tours and special programs, call the BHEC at 795-4181 or visit uab.edu

Fri., Jan. 25 Burns Night - A Celebration of the Life of Robert Burns What: Scots and Scots-at-heart will come together for an annual celebration of the life and works of the national poet of Scotland, Robert Burns.

When: 5:45-8 p.m.

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

Jan. 25 and 27 Glory Denied

What: 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 from Viet Nam and repatriation.

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

Where: Southern Museum of Flight Website: operabirmingham.org

Sat., Jan. 26 Frostbite 5k and Fun Run

What: Young Life Birmingham South presents its sixth annual 5k fundraiser in support of its mission of building friendships that point adolescents to Jesus Christ.

Included will be music, snacks and fellowship.

When: On-site registration begins at 7:45 a.m. followed by a 9 a.m. 5k start and a 9:45 a.m. fun run Where: Veterans Park

Website: birminghamsouth. younglife.org

The Mambo Kings

What: Enjoy New York’s foremost Latin jazz ensemble, in concert with

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

About Town continues on page 6

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 5

Dancing Beauty

Alabama Ballet Sets Pointe Ball for Feb. 2 The Alabama Ballet is setting the stage for its 19th annual Pointe Ball. The organization’s largest special event fundraiser, the ball helps pay for extensive education and scholarship programs.

It will be held Feb. 2, 2019, at The Club. A selection of performances from The Sleeping Beauty will be performed during the evening.

Alabama Ballet, accompanied by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, will be performing the classical ballet March 8-10 at the BJCC Concert Hall.

Following the performance, guests – along with artistic director Tracey Alvey and members from the company – will feast on a gourmet dinner and dessert, followed by dancing with music The 2019 Pointe Ball honorary chairman provided by Celebrity All Star Band. is James W. Gewin.

The 2019 Pointe Ball honorary chairman is James W. Gewin, corporate chairman is Tom Warburton and gala chairwomen are Lauren DeMoss and Grace Kipp. The 2019 presenting sponsor is Bradley.

Tickets are $450 per person and $700 per couple. To purchase tickets or for sponsorship information, please email information@alabamaballet.org.

Photo courtesy Alabama Ballet

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

6 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

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, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Jan. 27, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Zamora Shrine Temple in Irondale Website: birminghamfelinefanciers. com

Thurs., Jan. 31 Taste of Homewood

What: Join Homewood Chamber of Commerce for the 18th annual Taste of Homewood. Sample food and beverages from around 30 of Homewood’s restaurants and eateries and enjoy live music while raising funds for the Chamber’s scholarships for local students and economic development efforts in the community.

When: 5:30-8 p.m.

Where: Rosewood Hall, SOHO Square Website: homewoodchamber.org

Fri., Feb. 1 ARTasting: Mardi Gras

What: Join the Alys Stephens Center JPats and explore new

art forms while hanging out with local artists and other young professionals. Included will be a sampling of wine and cocktails, courtesy of International Wines and Cathead Vodka, a savory spread by Tre’ Luna and other local eateries, art activities and more.

When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: ArtPlay Website: alysstephens.org

What: The ASO is partnering with Ruffner Mountain adventuring into the wild, wild west as the ASO performs Copland’s Billy the Kid. Copland paints a picture of pioneer West through the eyes of the infamous and appealing desperado. Arrive early to enjoy pre-concert activities.

When: 6 p.m.

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

Memphis

Sat., Feb. 2 Chinese New Year Festival

What: The Birmingham Chinese Association hosts a large cultural event that will feature performances by the Chao Yang group from Beijing, joined by Birmingham’s local performing groups. The Dragon dance and Chinese arts and crafts are part of the

What: Local artists will created works of art in 90 minutes during the annual ArtBlink Gala and auction them off to raise funds for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. Included will be food from IZ Catering and a night of dancing accompanied by live music from the Schmohawks. Funds raised go toward the Cancer Center’s Fund for Excellence, which supports the center’s highest-priority projects.

When: 6:30-11 p.m.

Where: The Kirklin Clinic of UAB Hospital Website: artblink.org

Copland’s Billy the Kid

Feb. 1-17 What: Red Mountain Theatre Company presents the musical Memphis. From the underground clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes the story of a white radio DJ wanting to change the world and a black club singer looking for her big break. Inspired by actual events and winner of the 2010 Tony Award for Best Musical.

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

Where: RMTC Cabaret Theatre Website: redmountaintheatre.org

Artblink Gala

Feb. 7

heart2heart

Photo courtesy

Jan. 26 and 27

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

celebration. Traditional food will be available for purchase.

When: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Where: Boutwell Auditorium Website: “Birmingham Chinese New Year Celebration” Facebook page

Birmingham Winter Beer Fest

What: Birmingham Winter Beer Fest presents a sampling of over 150 craft beers, four beer gardens, live music, a “Brew University” with education seminars, a silent disco, karaoke, a photo booth, a corn hole tournament and more.

When: 3-7 p.m.

Where: BJCC North Exhibit Hall Website: bhambeerfest.com

Beaker Bash

What: McWane Science Center hosts its annual fundraiser in this “Carnivale” themed event. Bring the whole family and be swept away into a world of colorful displays of acrobatics and intrigue. All proceeds go directly to McWane Science Center’s Education Scholarship Fund.

When: 5-8 p.m.

Where: McWane Science Center Website: mcwane.org

What: aTeam Ministries presents its primary fundraiser featuring artwork by pediatric cancer patients and professional artists who work as pairs to create work by the child and an original work inspired by the child. Patient artwork is auctioned off in a silent auction along side other items. The event comes to its finale in its live auction portion, where the professional artists’ work is auctioned off in addition to vacation packages, Alabama football tickets and accommodations and more.

When: 6-9 p.m.

Where: The Grand Bohemian Hotel Website: “aTeam Ministries heart2heart 2019” Facebook page

27th Annual

Red NOse Ball Presented By

Saturday, February 23rd, 2019 | The Sheraton Birmingham Hotel

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Sat., Feb. 9 Birmingham Boys Choir Collaborative 6.2

What: Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church Concert Choristers collaborate with Birmingham Boys Choir Alumni to present a concert featuring 100 Concert Choristers and well as 40 BBC Alumni.

When: 4 p.m.

Where: Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church Website: birminghamboyschoir. com

Fri., Feb. 8-9

Scholarship Luncheon

What: Samford Legacy League hosts its annual winter luncheon.

Open to the public, the event features Jodie Berndt, (above) best-selling author of nine books including the Praying the Scriptures series, an insightful and humorous speaker with a passion to equip people to pursue joy, celebrate grace and live on purpose.

Proceeds provide scholarships for deserving students.

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

Where: A private club in Vestavia Website: samford.edu

SAVE THE DATE Fri., Feb. 8 Video Games Live

What: This immersive concert

Giggles & Grace

What: Asbury United Methodist Church will host its baby and child consignment sale featuring children’s clothing, toys, books, shoes and more. Proceeds benefit Asbury Children’s Ministry and mission projects.

When: Feb. 8, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Feb. 9, 8 a.m.-noon Where: Asbury United Methodist Church Website: asburygigglesandgrace. com

Sun., Feb. 10 Southern Tales at The Gardens

Feb. 8-10 Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend

Jan & Jenny

Early Intervention Programs.

When: Visit the website for a weekend schedule for exact location and times for all activities Where: Railroad Park Website: mercedesmarathon.com

event presented by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra featuring music from the most popular video games of all time will have guests dazzled by synchronized cuttingedge video screen visuals, a state-of-the art lighting stage show production and special on-stage interactive segments.

When: 8 p.m.

Where: BJCC Concert Hall Website: alabamasymphony.org

Feb. 7

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 7

ABOUT TOWN

What: Due to the I 59/20 interstate bridge construction in 2019, the Marathon will have a fresh new face as the start and finish lines for all races will be at Railroad Park. All Sunday activities, Feb. 10, benefit the children at The Bell Center For

What: Birmingham Botanical Gardens presents Dolores Hydock in Eglamore and Cristobel a Medieval Love Story. Medieval music trio Pan Harmonium will lend musical punctuation on harp, hurdy-gurdy, lute, viol, recorder and other instruments of old.

When: 2 p.m.

Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Lecture Hall Website: bbgardens.org

JENNY HEADLEY Cell: (205) 577-1936 jennycheadley@gmail.com

JAN COLLIER Cell: (205) 835-9699 jan@jancollier.com

2 Generations of proven Real Estate Success providing you with a smooth buying and selling experience.

Office: (205) 969-8910

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1/18/19 1:32 PM

NEWS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Mountain Brook Chamber Awards Jemison Visionary Award to Bill Bowron

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Photo courtesy Alan Stabler.

8 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

From left, Karen Odle, Vestavia Hills Chamber president/CEO; Shawn Arterburn, Carlyle Thornton and Millou Callahan, Liberty Park Joint Venture; and Doug Dean, Chamber past-president.

Vestavia Chamber Presents Awards, New Spring Fundraiser for VHHS

At a luncheon on Jan. 15 at Vestavia Country Club, the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce doled out its 2019 awards to recognize those who have gone above and beyond in service to the community during the past year.

Recipients and awards were former mayor Butch Zaragoza, volunteer of the year; Erin Holtz of Pure Fitness LLC, ambassador of the year; Ben Chambliss and Mark McCoy, tied for board member of the year; Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, member of the year; John Henley of State Farm Insurance and the Henley Group, the Dr. Charles A. “Scotty” McCallum Leadership Award; Linda Parker of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, president’s award; Liberty Park Joint Venture, service business of the

year; The Lili Pad and Gigi’s Teen, retail business of the year.

Awards also were handed out for the chamber’s annual Viva Vestavia event, held in October.

Samurai Japan and Wintzell’s Oyster House tied for best food, and Metro Diner won for best presentation.

Four Vestavia Hills High School seniors also presented a new spring fundraiser that will take the place of the Relay for Life, which had been a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Ben Barrentine, Avery Richardson, Douglas Thompson and Mary Hanlon Hunton discussed the new event, Rise, which stands for Rebels Impact through Service and Empowerment.

The fundraiser will run throughout the spring with a variety of events to raise funds for

the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The fundraiser will conclude April 12 with Rise Day, which will be held from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on the VHHS practice field.

At the conclusion of the luncheon, the chamber’s 2019 officers were sworn in. Officers are Gary Jordan, chair; John Henley, chair-elect; Doug Dean, immediate past chair; Jeff Florio, vice chair of business development; Scott Perry, vice chair of community affairs; Becky Hicks-Abbott, vice chair of membership development; Taylor Burton; vice chair of programming; Kelly Bottcher, vice chair of public education; Mark Macoy, secretary and legal counsel; and Ben Chambliss, treasurer.

—Emily Williams

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Grandview Growing

A ribbon-cutting was held Jan. 18 to mark the opening of a new floor of inpatient beds at Grandview Medical Center. The construction makes room for another 23 inpatient beds at the hospital. The second phase of the project, to be complete in March, will add seven beds to that number, bringing the total number of licensed beds in the U.S. 280 hospital to 402. The extra beds were necessary to handle growing use of the facility, which was opened in October 2015, according to a statement from the hospital. Grandview officials attending the ribbon cutting, above, from left: Todd Brightbill, James Spann, Drew Mason, David Wynne and Kayla Knight.

From left, Bill Bowron, Jemison Visionary Award recipient; Suzan Doidge, Executive Director Mountain Brook Chamber; Stewart Welch, Mayor Mountain Brook and Dr. Cal Dodson, outgoing chamber President at the Mountain Brook Chamber annual luncheon last week.

Bill Bowron, president and CEO of Red Diamond Coffee and Tea, was awarded the Jemison Visionary Award, the most prestigious award in the Mountain Brook community, at the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce’s annual luncheon.

Mayor Stewart From left, Vince Schilleci, Hunter Simmon and Welch presented the Alice Williams award Jan. 17 during the luncheon, held at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook.

Named after the developer of Mountain Brook, Robert Jemison, the award honors individuals who have devoted their lives to advancing the community.

Bowron is well known for his civic leadership, having served in leadership positions with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Birmingham Business Alliance, Mountain Brook Sports Park Foundation, PreSchool Partners advisory board, Rotary Club of Birmingham, World Presidents’ Organization, Birmingham-Jefferson Historical Museum, Birmingham Museum of Art, Birmingham United Soccer Club, Industrial Health Council, Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation, Sloss Furnaces National Historical Landmark and St. Vincent’s Foundation. He also is a member of the Beaux Arts Krewe and supporter of the Birmingham Zoo. “As a native of Mountain Brook and someone who believes deeply in our city, I am truly honored and proud to receive this recognition from the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce,” Bowron said. “Our community is filled with talented and dedicated people who work daily to enrich our collective lives. Red Diamond and I are grateful to be a small part of that equation.”

Other awards presented at the event included the Emmet O’Neal Library’s 2019 Tynes Award, presented to Alice Williams, a member of the library’s board and the Mountain Brook Planning Commission. While serving on the Mountain Brook City Council from 1996 to 2006, Williams helped generate support for the building project that resulted in the library’s current facility.

The city recognized Hunter Simmons, liaison for the Village Design Review Committee, as its Employee of the Year. Among Simmons’ recent accomplishments was his redesign of the city’s website.

Originally, Simmons joined the city as a geographic information systems manager and has since held increasing responsibility at City Hall, according to Dana Hazen, Mountain Brook’s director of planning, building and sustainability, who presented the award to Simmons.

To conclude the luncheon, Vince Schilleci was inducted as the 2019 chamber board president by outgoing President Dr. Cal Dodson.

—Emily Williams

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 9

NEWS

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

breaking donation would not be possible.”

The funds were raised through sales of specialty breast cancer research license plates, a variety of events held throughout the year and direct donations.

According to a statement from BCRFA, about half of its donation this year was raised through sales of the specialty car tags, which now are on more than 12,500 vehicles in Alabama.

—Emily Williams

Brocato Comments on Galleria Shooting Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato delivered a State of the City address at the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce January Luncheon held Jan. 17. At the end of his speech, he addressed the Galleria shooting that happened two months ago on Thanksgiving night and its response on social media.

“Many of things said on social media and the general media about

our city just are not true,” he said.

“It’s not the people we know. But I believe, as neighbors, we should also take this as an opportunity to focus inward, ask questions, get answers, and see the best practices for how to improve. Going forward, we intend to spend more time in conversations with people from all walks of life that flourish throughout the community.

“By listening to each other, our differences can be leveraged to make us stronger,” he said.

—Ingrid Howard

From left, Dr. Michael Birrer, Jill Carter, Beth Bradner Davis and Carol Myers with BCRFA’s largest donation to date.

BCRFA Donates $1 Million to O’Neal Cancer Center

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama presented its largest donation to date, amounting to $1 million, to the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham during a luncheon at The Club on Jan. 18.

“The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is critical in making our breast cancer research program one of the best in the country,” said Dr. Michael Birrer, director of the center. “BCRFA is a perfect example of motivating the community to support new and evolving research. Without their support, we

could not conduct important pilot studies or provide bridge funding.”

Since its inception in 1996, the BCRFA has made an annual donation to the cancer center with the proceeds from all its fundraising efforts. The Birmingham-based organization’s donations to date total more than $8.5 million.

“As a breast cancer survivor myself, I am thrilled that we are able to invest one million dollars in life-saving breast cancer research this year,” said Jill Carter, BCRFA board president. “Without the support of our sponsors, donors and community partners, this record-

A love of nature starts early.

Ours did too.

Did you know that frogs are an indicator of the health of water systems? At Alabama Power, we’ve been helping manage and protect Alabama’s natural resources for more than a hundred years, partnering with organizations across the state to preserve the health of our river ecosystems. Plus, we work hard to care for wildlife habitats and give endangered species the chance for a future.

Because we love nature – and frogs – as much as you do.

AlabamaPower.com/Environment

© 2019 Alabama Power Company

10 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

By Rubin E. Grant

Neil Caudle has little pink in his wardrobe, but that’s going to change next month.

The former Spain Park and Auburn University quarterback will take part in the American Cancer Society’s Real Men Wear Pink of Birmingham fundraiser during February.

“When I wear pink, I’m breaking a (wardrobe) rule,” Caudle said with a laugh.

Caudle can thank a relative for his upcoming pink attire.

“My wife’s cousin is a part of the board that runs the campaign, and she asked me if I wanted to do it, and I accepted,” Caudle explained. “We’ve each committed to raising a targeted goal of money for the month.

There’s a couple of events I need to wear pink and I’m asking my friends, family and co-workers to help.”

Real Men Wear Pink is a campaign that

LIFE

Back in Pink

Caudle Joins the Crowd of Men Ready to Don Pink to Raise Awareness About Breast Cancer in February

Stan Blanton, Balch & Bingham

Every dollar raised helps the American Cancer Society save lives from breast cancer through early detection and prevention, innovative breast cancer research and patient support. gives men a leadership role in the fight against breast cancer. Community leaders are hand selected to be “Real Men” and stand at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer.

The requirements to be “Real Men” call for them to wear pink in February, set a fundraising goal of $2,500 or more, fundraise for bragging rights as Birmingham’s Pink Man of the Year and post on personal social media to raise awareness about breast cancer.

Otherwise, all they have to do is have fun and enjoy the friendly competition.

The 2017 Real Men Wear Pink campaign in Birmingham raised about $137,000.

Every dollar raised helps the American Cancer Society save lives from breast cancer through early detection and prevention, innovative breast cancer research and patient support. The goal for 2019 for the Birmingham area is $130,000.

More than 20 men in the Birmingham metropolitan area have agreed to take part in next month’s campaign.

‘Cupid’s Got Nothing on Us’

Past campaigns have taken place in October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but it was moved to February this year to coincide with Valentine’s Day. The theme for next month’s campaign is “Cupid’s Got Nothing on Us.” “We really wanted it to be about the entire year and not just October,” said Lauryn Patton, community development director for the ACS in Birmingham. “We centered it around Valentine’s because that’s when many people are showing love and affection. We wanted to do that as well when raising awareness about breast cancer.”

Like many of those participating, Caudle’s life has been touched by cancer.

During his freshman year at Auburn, in 2007, his mother, Teresa, was diagnosed with breast

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Luke Elder, Mercedes Benz of Birmingham

During his freshman year at Auburn, in 2007, Neil Caudle’s mother, Teresa, was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent treatment and is now cancer free.

cancer. She underwent treatment and is now cancer free.

“I was pretty directly affected by her cancer, as was my entire family,” Caudle said.

“That’s another thing that makes it easier to participate in this.”

Caudle graduated from Auburn in 2011 with a degree in building science. He’s now a project manager at Brasfield & Gorrie, a construction firm headquartered in Birmingham.

Caudle was part of Auburn’s 2010 national championship team and was the holder when place-kicker Wes Byrum booted a field goal to give Auburn a 22-19 win against Oregon in the national championship game in Glendale, Arizona.

While he has fond memories of that game, Caudle has moved on from being a player.

“I’m just a fan now,” he said. “I still know most of the coaches at Auburn and stay connected as a fan.”

Caudle is too busy being a husband and father. He and wife Emily have three children, 2-year-old twins Joe and Kate and 1-month old son Tommy.

“My football now is throwing the football with them,” he said.

Learn more about the campaign and donate to a participant’s fundraising efforts at cancer.org. Click on Get Involved, then Fundraise and scroll to the Real Men Wear Pink icon.

Real Men Wearing Pink

Brian Heslop, Cadence Bank

Brandon Cain, Roots & Revelry

Anthony Gardner, Alabama Regional Medical Services

Josh Carnes, Ameriprise Financial

Bezshan Dolatabadi, B. Prince

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 11

LIFE

Rehab Reality...

By Judy Butler

Roy Johnson, Alabama Media Group

John Hennessy, Colliers International

Willie Davis, Dannon Project

Ben Franklin, Alfa Insurance

Embracing the New You

Michael Turnbough, Raymond James

Dr. Michael Beckenstein, St. Vincent’s

Deon Gordon, TechBirmingham

THE BIG REVEAL

Joshua Clarke, Doulos Partners

What: The 2019 Real Men Wear Pink Kickoff party will feature an introduction of the “2019 Real Men,” handselected business leaders, that give a leadership role in the fight against breast cancer. The event includes hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, live music and a bourbon auction.

Special entertainment will be provided by The Hams.

Guest emcees will be Will and Reed Lochamy from Oh Brother Radio.

When: Thurs., Jan. 31, 5:30-7 p.m.

Where: Roots & Revelry Website: acsevents.org

Chandler Hoffman, Birmingham Legion FC

Alex Shahid III, Legal Shield

James L. Cason III, Warren Averett

David Hicks, Jefferson County Department of Health

Dr. Jeff Chaiprakob, Medical Center East

Mike Gibson, Creature Builds

PHOTOS COURTESY AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

A few weeks into the New Year and how many resolutions have gone by the way side?

It’s OK – that’s to be expected because we’re eager to do better and usually make more than is possible to keep simply because change is difficult.

When clients leave Bayshore Retreat they have an Exit Plan which is like a New Year’s Resolution even if it’s in May or June, or whenever. The point is CHANGE. Something has to change. Some client’s family members have repainted rooms, bought new furniture and countless other things to change the environment as much as possible. The triggers and environment have to change in order to maintain the new sober you.

Another change is routine.

While we don’t use AA as our program we do embrace it as a possible support for our clients when discharged. Thus the routine of going to a meeting at the start of the day or whatever works into the schedule is important. One of the advantages of AA is like minded people who can truly relate to issues that become obstacles of sobriety.

Many times family and friends can’t relate and think that because you went to “rehab” that you’re cured and there shouldn’t be a problem.

Therein lies much of the problem. They either think that they can live life around you as before with a glass of wine with dinner or avoid you because you no longer “fit in”.

So where are your friends when you need them most? They’re confused. This is why developing new friends that understand and have been there is so important.

12 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

Rocket Man

VH Resident and Former Astronaut DeLucas to Share His Stories From Space at Homewood Library

By Ingrid Howard

Photo courtesy

When Syracuse-born Lawrence DeLucas came to UAB to study chemistry, he probably didn’t imagine that his passion for science eventually would lead him all the way to space.

But when he passed his first two organic chemistry tests with flying colors, his teacher offered him a job, and DeLucas started imagining what it would be like to be a scientist.

“I was real shy and didn’t think I could ever be a scientist,” he said. “So I started working for him all through the year and fulltime during the summer. I started getting confidence that I could do this, and so I started pursuing it.”

DeLucas, who will be speaking at the Homewood Public Library later this month, eventually got bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry and a Ph.D. in biochemistry. He also picked up degrees in optometry and optics along the way.

His expertise was in crystallography, and while at a science conference, he learned that crystals grow bigger and better in space.

Three months and $3,500 later, he had designed a machine that could go on a spacecraft to help his research. This was in 1985, just one year before the Challenger explosion that killed seven crew members.

“Today, if you want to fly (a pair of) glasses, it would probably cost a half a million dollars,” he said. “Before Challenger, you could fly something and not have all the safety documentation.”

DeLucas was in a VIP room during the first launch of his hard-

ware, and he was able to see the launch of the spacecraft in the distance. He said he was overcome with emotions.

“I saw the fire and smoke, and the sound hadn’t reached me yet,” he said. “I don’t cry. I’ve never cried at a funeral ever, and I’ve had

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

PEOPLE some pretty sad funerals. I’m sad, but I just don’t cry. And I started crying watching this thing. The sound, when it hit me, was like a shock wave into my chest. The ground was shaking. My wife was next to me, and she was crying too.”

He turned to his friends in that moment and said, “I’m going to do this.” He said his friends laughed at him, but it became a quest to DeLucas to go into space.

Odd Guy Out in Space

DeLucas doesn’t fit into most stereotypes about astronauts. He can barely drive a car, let alone a plane, he said with a laugh.

“I’m the only astronaut in the history of NASA that’s afraid of high heights,” he added.

But he was determined, and seven years later, he was selected to fly aboard the NASA space shuttle mission STS-50, spending 15 days in outer space.

DeLucas loved the food on board.

“I’m the only one in, like, 15 missions that I gained 15 pounds in 14 days,” he said. “I was eating everything in sight.”

He didn’t get motion sickness during the mission, so when his fellow crew members were too sick to eat, he ate their leftovers. His first meal in space was a peanut butter and jelly sandwich – made on tortillas so crumbs wouldn’t float around the shuttle.

Drinking water was a unique experience for him. He had to drink liquids in a bag with a straw.

As he drank, he had to chase the liquid around the bag with his straw. Without gravity, water droplets clung to the sides of the bag.

But one of the biggest challenges was getting used to gravity once he returned home.

“When the shuttle lands, this truck comes up and has this white box that hooks to the hatch,” he said. “And they always say, ‘They’re in there turning off the equipment.’ No, they aren’t. The guy next to me is puking. I couldn’t lift my arm. I thought I was an elephant. You’re just not used to gravity. It’s weird.”

He remembered doing odd things at home for a while after the mission, such as dropping his toothbrush onto the floor in the middle of brushing his teeth.

When asked if he planned on going back to space, DeLucas said no. Now, he works full time for the Aerospace Corporation and lives in Vestavia Hills, and he gives talks about his journey through space. He said he likes to put space photos in between slides about science to keep people interested while educating them.

DeLucas will give one of his talks Jan. 28 at the Homewood Public Library in the large auditorium. The event is free and begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary. org.

Mountain Brook’s Goyal Earns Eagle Rank Shawn Goyal of Mountain Brook was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in a Court of Honor on Jan. 13.

As a member of Troop 76 at Liberty United Methodist Church, Goyal served as senior patrol leader and has been inducted into the Order of the Arrow.

A highlight of his scouting experience was a two-week backpacking Shawn Goyal trip in Colorado that included summiting Mt. Elbert, kayaking and sandboarding in Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In late 2017, Shawn developed an Eagle project to help people in Puerto Rico affected by Hurricane Maria, many of whom were left without potable water. In 2018, Goyal executed the project, which assembled and delivered 175 refillable and reusable 5-gallon dispensing water filters to Puerto Rico, where they have been distributed to communities in need.

Goyal attends The Altamont School. He is first chair clarinet in the orchestra and pep band and a member of Mu Alpha Theta, the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and the cross-country and varsity tennis teams. In addition, he is active in Birmingham’s Youth Philanthropy Council, YouthServe and Birmingham’s Youth Leadership Forum.

Goyal is the son of Drs. Rita and Munish Goyal of Mountain Brook.

Fenn and McDonald Named Eagle Scouts

An Eagle Court of Honor Ceremony was held Oct. 21 to recognize Blake Fenn and Will McDonald from Boy Scout Troop 63 at Canterbury United Methodist Church.

During his scouting career, Fenn earned 23 merit badges and held such leadership positions as troop Blake Fenn quartermaster, troop chaplain and patrol quartermaster.

His two-part Eagle project included organizing and conducting a book supply drive for Grantswood Community School. He collected 1,971 books through donations and set up a free book fair at the end of the year for students to select books to start their own home libraries over the summer. Fenn then lead the assembly and installation of two Little Free Libraries in neighboring trailer home parks where a majority of the Grantswood students live.

He donated $2,000 left over from the project to the school.

Fenn is a senior at Mountain Brook High School and plans to attend Baylor University and pursue a business degree in sports, strategy and sales following graduation.

Fenn is the son of Renee and Scott Fenn of Mountain Brook.

While a scout at Troop 63, McDonald earned 24 merit badges and held such leadership positions as quartermaster and assistant patrol leader.

For his Eagle project, he built an outdoor classroom at Mountain Brook Elementary with eight benches and a podium.

He raised money to cover the construction cost, and the project was completed with help of fellow Scout members. Will McDonald Excess funds were donated to Mountain Brook Elementary.

McDonald is a senior at Mountain Brook High School, where he plays on the varsity tennis team. He also is a member of Canterbury United Methodist Church. McDonald is the son of Argie and Bill McDonald of Mountain Brook.

UAB Education Dean Named Living Legend

UAB has a living legend in its administration.

Autumn Tooms-Cyprès, dean of the School of Education, has been named the International Council of Professors of Educational Leadership 2019 Living Legend.

“Dean Cyprès is an innovative and strategic leader,” said University of Alabama at Birmingham Provost Pam Benoit. “We are delighted that she joined the UAB team and that she has received this tremendous honor recognizing her impact in the discipline.”

The award recognizes those who have made outstanding Autumn Toomscontributions Cyprès to the field of educational administration.

Cyprès has served as a program evaluator for school leadership preparation programs and as president of the University Council for Educational Administration and the National Council of Professors of Educational Administration. She is a past president of ICPEL and has served on several committees.

Her research has been published in journals such as Educational Administration Quarterly and Teacher’s College Record. Her most recent books, which include “Ferocious Resolve: Politics, Courage, and What it’s Like to be a Professor,” examine the politics of leadership within the professoriate.

Cyprès will be recognized at the ICPEL annual conference July 15.

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LIFE

SAV E THE DATE FOR THE 2019 MAGIC CI T Y HE A R T BA L L 3.2.19

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Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 13

SOCIAL

14 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

STEP RIGHT UP

Photos by Hank Spencer

Krewe Ball Celebrates an Evening Under the Big Top

From left, Ellen Regan, Margaret Doody, Ella Jernigan and Frances Patrick.

Louisa Collins, Anne Compton, Virginia Cain, Carlton Cooper and Annie Lovelady.

Madeline Turner, Grace Lockett, Katherine Dodson, Catherine Greene and Lily Grace Couvillion.

Maggie Baker, Madeline DeBuys, Adelaide Kimberly, Cleary Gray Plosser and Virginia Farley.

B

eaux Arts Krewe will present a spectacular show at Boutwell Auditorium on March 1 with its 52nd annual Krewe Ball, celebrating the theme “Under the Big Top.” Twenty-two young women will be presented in this year’s ball, including 22 princesses, three ladies-in-waiting and this year’s queen, who will be revealed during the event.

The Krewe annually donates funds to support the Birmingham Museum of Art and its collections, which include more than 24,000 works of art from around the world that span 4,000 years.

Girls not pictured: Claire Darnall, Alexandra Dunn, Ellen Coleman Edwards, Carson Hull, Lulu Marks, Lucy Massey and Brook Ostrander.

This year’s presentees are: Sara Margaret Baker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Schulyer Allen Bradley Baker III. Virginia Warren Cain, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Edward Lyle Cain Jr. Louisa Bradford Collins, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Griffin Collins.

Anne Stanton Compton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Paul Compton Jr. Carlton Ramona Cooper, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wiley Howard Cooper IV. Lillian Grace Couvillon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hanson Lawrence Couvillon Jr. Claire Elizabeth Darnall, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Edgar Thomason Darnall.

Madeline Lysbeth DeBuys,

daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Forrester DeBuys III. Katherine Hufham Dodson, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Cecil Calvert Dodson III. Anna Margaret Doody, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Robert Doody Jr. Alexandra Glenn Dunn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Evans Johnson Dunn.

Ellen Coleman Edwards, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Wyman Edwards Jr. Virginia Murray Farley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph McConnell Farley Jr. Catherine Morris Greene, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Keller Greene.

Carson O’Neil Hull, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hewes Turner Hull.

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Eleanor Pryor Jernigan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Edgar Jernigan Jr. Adelaide Essick Kimberly, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Holbrook Kimberly.

Grace Wyman Lockett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Guinn Alexander Lockett Jr. Anne Traywick Lovelady, daughter of Mrs. Timothy Russell Lovelady and the late Mr. Lovelady.

Caroline Louise Marks, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Amos Marks Jr. Lucy Dunn Massey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Noble Crump Yelverton and Mr. and Mrs. John Hall Massey.

Anne Holbrook Ostrander, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Roger Vincent Ostrander III.

Not pictured: Claire Darnall, Alexandra Dunn, Ellen Coleman Edwards, Carson Hull, Lulu Marks, Lucy Massey and Brook Ostrander.

Frances Alice Patrick, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Benjamin Patrick.

Cleary Gray Plosser, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Donald Plosser.

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Poinsettia Parties

SOCIAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 15 From left, Andrea Burris, Susannah Harvey, Anna Kate Lucas and Katharyne Henley at the 2018 Poinsettia Ball.

Photo special to the Journal.

On the evening of Dec. 27, 34 debutantes were presented in the 51st annual Poinsettia Debutante Ball, hosted by the Ballet Women’s Committee and Poinsettia Men’s Club in the ballroom at Vestavia Country Club.

Before the ball, debutantes hosted a variety of events to get to know their fellow debs, including a High Tea held at the Grand Bohemian Hotel on Dec. 26.

The tea was hosted by Laine Brock, Anna Crawford and Elizabeth Morrissette. Guests donned their most fashionable hats and fascinators and learned about tea customs from around the globe and proper tea etiquette from Kathie Martin of the Birmingham School of Etiquette.

In addition, Taylor Creamer, Leighton Martin, Kendall Gause, Maddie Henkey, Margaret Farris and Mary Kate Gorham hosted a sushi party at the Gorham residence on Dec. 15. Guests learned how to roll sushi, as well as how to pair various wines with the dish. ❖

Photo special to the Journal.

A sushi party was held at the home Mary Kate Gorham.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

A High Tea was held at the Grand Bohemian Hotel on Dec. 26.

Mary Cameron McLaen and Emily McLaen at the Poinsettia Debutante Ball on the evening of Dec. 27 at Vestavia Country Club.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Debs Enjoy Special Events Leading up to Ball

16 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

SOCIAL

From left, George and Jeanie Matthews with Mollie Cox and Harold Lassen.

Ann and Sam Donaldson with Jeanne Walthal, Tom and Mary-Ellen Clark with Lee Walthal.

JESTERS UNITE!

Harlequins Dance Club Members Gather for Business and Pleasure The Harlequins Dance Club hosted a party Dec. 14 at Mountain Brook Club to celebrate the holiday season.

President Jeanie Matthews thanked everyone for coming to the event and welcomed the club’s new members.

Serving as party chairman for the evening was Mollie Cox, who coordinated an evening of fellowship and conversation over a seated dinner.

Officers for the 2018-19 year included Matthews, president; Cox, vice president; Sharon HydingerVines, secretary/treasurer; Johnie Gieger, parliamentarian; Philippa Bainbridge, membership; Ann Hillhouse and Eve Holloway, nominating; and Cheryl Williams, yearbook/publicity.

Those in attendance included Sue Alford and Ivey Jackson, Lynn Ault, Barbara and Winfield Baird, Mary Carolyn and Mel Cleveland, Mary Ellen and Tom Clark, Betty Jo Cowin, Mollie Cox with Harold Lassen, Paula and Francis Crockard, Margie and Sid Davis, Forsythe Donald, Henrietta Emack, Marjorie Forney, Johnie Gieger, Frances and Miller Gorrie, Hettie and Howard Hall, Ann Hillhouse, Sharon Hydinger-Vines, Liz Hoffman with Jack Trigg, Betsy Marbury, Weesa Mathews with Glenn Bishop, Jeanie and George Matthews, Ellen and Hobart McWhorter, Dot and Albert Naughton, Sue Newton, Sandra and Terry Oden, Valerie and Tom Pankey, Helen and Walter Pittman, Lois Poe, Joyce Ratliff with Bayard Tynes, Sue Pritchard, Elberta Reid, Carol Sandner, Gail and Charles Sharp, Elaine Smith, Catherine and Lee Styslinger, Anne and Roger Suttle, Sandra Simpson and Ed Laughtlin, Sally Wall, Diana and Cullom Walker, Doris White and Joe McCracken, Janie and Walter Wilson, Jeanne and Lee Walthal, and Ann and Sam Donaldson. ❖

Roger Suttle, Dorothy Naughton and Lee Styslinger.

Valerie Pankey and Jack Trigg.

Johnie Gieger and Sandra Oden.

Sharon Hydinger-Vines with Win and Barbara Baird.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 17

SOCIAL From left, Becky Keyes, Ann Johnson, Carla Roberson, Judy Matthews and Elise Warren.

Photos special to the Journal.

Sale Sale Ends Ends Thursday, Wednesday,January January 31 31

It’s Hanna Antique Mall’s biggest sale of the year.

Holiday Planner

Fandango Dance Club Celebrates and Talks About Plans for the New Year Members of the Fandango Dance Club ushered in the holiday season with a Christmas cocktail party on the evening of Dec. 11 at the home of their president, Hallie Rawls.

The club officers were easily identifiable by the Christmas antlers they each wore during the party. There was a brief business meeting, during which the dance club members discussed their plans for the upcoming year.

Among other events, the group is planning a band party during 2019.

Enjoying the gathering were Livy Abele, Dalton Blankenship, Nancy Booth, Lyn Bradford, Cynthia Broughton, Laura Bryan, Ann Campbell, Bingham Carlson, Molly Carter, Sarah Chisolm, Ann Luckie Cobb, Lynn Coleman, Betsy Cooper, Alice Cox, Paula Cox, Martha Elovitz, Antoinette Flowers, Penny Fuller, Suzanne Graham, Kathryn Harwell, Anne Hicks, Kathy Hoar, Sandra Holley, Jane Howard, Ann Johnson, Becky Keyes, Lillian Laughlin, Kathy Logue, Sue Ellen Lucas,

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Bethy Short, Kathryn Harwell and Martha Elovitz.

Dorothy Lynam, Barrett MacKay, Judy Matthews, Ruth Mears, Emily Rose Morris, Vicki McGehee, Carolyn Nowicki, Jowane Patton, Kathy Pearce, Charlotte Powell, Jeanine Powell, Babs Quinn, Hallie Rawls, Carla Roberson, Brenda

This is yourFrom: AD PROOF the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the205-824-1 Overfrom The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: January 1, 2019 issue.

Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Date: January 20168

Ross, Sister Rutland, Bethy This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOU Short, Lochrane Coleman January 11, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 82 Smith, Dotty Still, Shirley Ann Stringfellow, Ann Beck Thomas, make sure information is corr Vivian Tucker, Elise Warren, Please initial andPlease fax back within 24 all hours.

Ellen Williams, Yorke Williams, If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is.phone We print the paper Mo including address and number Louise Wright and Laurie Thank you for your prompt attention.

Yearout. ❖

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Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

Hallie Rawls, Barrett MacKay, Cynthia Broughton and Laurie Yearout.

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

Thank you for your prompt attention.

2454 18th Street, Homewood, AL 35209 582-2623

18 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

SOCIAL

ALIMONY &

TOTALLY RAD

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Throwback Bar Mitzvah Has Adults Celebrating the ‘90s in Style

Jewish Community Center teamed up to host a party Author :that was all that and a bag of chips Jan. 12 at Temple Beth-El. Gentle Kathryn Crawford Author: The organizations hosted a ‘90s Throwback Adult Kathryn Crawford Gentle Bar Mitzvah Under the new tax bill signed into lawParty through their joint initiative, We FACING DIVORCE: Belong in Birmingham.

KNOW WHATalimony TO DO AND by Trump, paid by oneThe spouse evening’s festivities had guests ages 21 and WHAT NOT TO DO to the other will not be tax deductible, over partying like it was 1999, dressed in their best Divorce proceedings often turn flannel and jeans and dancing while a DJ spun great into stressful events that disrupt the and the spouse receiving thehits alimony of the decade. lives of both partners. The highly is no longer required on a jumbo projection of a ‘90s-style teleIn addition, rated litigators at Lloyd and Hoganto pay taxes have extensive experience helping vision played videos of Super Nintendo games, and a alimony. clients understand what to do and photo booth had guests posing with cut outs of troll what not to when facing divorce. dolls, Game Boys, VHS tapes and popular phrases of Your Divorce to Do List the decade In the current system, it works the such as “Talk to the Hand,” “As If!” and The first thing to do is discover how “Whatever!” ❖

the divorce process works.

Eachthe payer deductopposite way, with state has mandated different divorce ing thewhich fullmeans amount and the recipient guidelines, it is critical Carly Somerville, Lauren Tatum and Danielle Rosenblaum. to hire a divorce attorney who is fapaying income taxes on the alimony miliar with Alabama divorce statutes.

Next you need to organize finances received. to present a compelling legal argument during divorce negotiations.

Some Divorce lawyers say the current These negotiations are performed by lawyers to sort out wills, insursetup tends to preserve more money ance policies, and retirement plans.

Your children feel responoverall tomight allocate between spouses, sible for the split between you and helping them afford your partner. Encourage your kidsliving separately. to express their feelings, as well Others argue that the government will as explain why the marriage has reached the point of dissolution. end up with more of a divorcing pair’s Honesty and openness go a long combined income. way towards alleviating the anxiety experienced by children during divorce cases. Above all, focus on The new your mental andrules physicalwon’t health toaffect anyone ensure mood remains whoyour divorces or upbeat signs a separation throughout the process.

Eric and Amy Morrison with Alex Grodner.

Adam Kessler with Stephanie and Brad Friedman. agreement before 2019.

What to Avoid Do not hide assets. This will sabotage a divorce proceeding. Honesty Critics fear that without the deduction, and openness extend to divulging allhigher-earning your assets. spouses won’t pay as A divorce proceeding can genermuch to their exes.emoEven though ate a wide variety of negative tions. Keep your emotions in check alimony is just one of many factors in not only to enhance your physical health, but alsoit tois avoid undermin-contentious topic divorce, a highly To: Kathryn, Cameron and Hank ing the legal process.

From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., that changing Avoid is using social mediadrastically. to lash 205-824-1246, fax out against your partner. Carelessly making ugly statements and/or issuDate: Jan. Due thecan length time it takes to ing veiledto threats lead to aof legal This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the outcome that goes against you. finalize a divorce in Alabama and the Jan. 242 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Contact the Divorce Lawyers newWho lawHave taking January 1, 2019, Seen Iteffect All Our skilled considering divorce lawyers area divorce should anyone equipped to handle the most contact us today for an complex of situations.

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Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

To speak to a member of our firm, If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, contact our office by callingLloyd and Hogan your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

205-969-6235.

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

Attorneys at Law

Thank you for your prompt attention.

2871 Acton Road, #201 Birmingham, AL 35243 (205) 969-6235 www.lloydhoganlaw.com

Lloyd and Hogan Attorneys at Law

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Jason and Virginia Oleinick.

Tammy Samen with Mirit and Tamir Eyal.

Karli Morris and Hillary Simon.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

DIVORCE The Birmingham Jewish Federation and the Levite

Photo by Dee Moore Photography

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 19

SOCIAL

Holiday Tradition

39 Presented During 76th Annual Holiday Assembly A group of 39 women who are high school juniors were presented during the 76th annual Holiday Assembly, held Dec. 21 at the Country Club of Birmingham.

Those presented were Lucy Jemison Alford, Eugenie Joyce Allen, Leigh Preston Block, Laura Hadley Bryant, Jane Margaret Carr, Gilder Scout Carruthers, Helen Virginia Carson, Anne Carlton Clegg, Virginia Glenn Cobbs, Lilian Kennedy Cochrane, Gabriella Grace Dorman, Catherine Edith Driscoll, Callie Ryan Dukes, Clara Parker Evans, Mary Katherine Fowlkes, Jane

Elizabeth Gresham, Ann Ellis Inskeep, Catherine Witherspoon Jones, Marilyn Douglas Joyce, Sarah Wahwiece Keller, Elliott McGill Kerns, Elisabeth Olivia Kerr, Chloe Adams Kinderman, Rosemary Katherine Lee, Elizabeth Barnes Manley, Augusta Dailey Martin, Ella Hastings McDonald, Alice Alden Monk, Abigail Gearhart Murphree, Caroline Goodwyn Parker, Louisa Eleanor Patrick, Theresa Elizabeth Patton, Emily Wilson Skowronek, Marguerite Alice Sprain, Virginia Lupton Swain, Addison Ashley Tierney, Ann Kendrick Vandevelde,

Elizabeth Preston Vandevelde and Virginia Florence Vogtle. ❖

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Pride and responsibility drive us to be the best in everything we do.

As a life-long Over-the-Mountain resident and a third generation working at Guin, I feel great pride and responsibility in carrying on the legacy of honesty and hard work that my grandfather began 60 years ago. Family is very important to us, and we treat our customers with the same care and respect as members of our own family. It would be a privilege to serve you.

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To: Linda From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: April Member of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce 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.

Mention this ad to receive a free diagnostic service call.

February 2, 2019 | www.mcwane.org

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20 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL/WEDDINGS

Unlocking Life’s Code

Guests gathered at McWane Science Center on Jan. 19 to celebrate the opening of an exhibit on genomic science, presented in partnership with UAB Medicine.

“Genome: Unlocking Life’s Code” is the first state-of-the-art exhibit about genomic science, according to the Smithsonian Institution, which created the exhibit in partnership with the National Institutes of Health.

The exhibit will be open to the public through May 19.

It examines the complexities of the genome – the complete set of genetic or hereditary material of a living organism – and chronicles breakthroughs that have taken place since the completion of the Human Genome Project more than a decade ago, according to a press release from McWane.

The exhibit will feature cuttingedge interactives, 3D models, custom animations and videos of reallife stories showcasing the benefits and the challenges that genomics presents to modern society.

“Genomic research is a vital tool for exploring the mysteries of

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

New McWane Exhibit Explores the Mysteries of Genomic Science

Above, from left, Bruce and Michele Korf with Mitch Cohen and Morissa Ladinsky. Below, Mohit Limdi, Chrisly Dillon and Mita Limdi.

the natural world,” said Kirk Johnson, sant director of the

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Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. “Genome: Unlocking Life’s Code” will help visitors understand how genomics is transforming what we know about ourselves and how we make important life decisions.”

Organized around three galleries, the exhibit will provide experiences that explore what a genome is, how it relates to medicine and health and how it connects humans to all life on the planet.

“As the state’s leader in genomic medicine, UAB is thrilled to sponsor this exhibit and share it with the city of Birmingham and state of Alabama,” said Dr. Bruce R. Korf, chief genomics officer at UAB and co-director of the Alabama Genomic Health Initiative. “We hope this exhibit will help visitors to understand the role that the genomic science plays in health and disease and motivate the young people of Alabama to consider genomic medicine as a potential career path.” ❖

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Shea-Smith

Mr. and Mrs. Richard John Shea III of Mountain Brook announce the engagement of their daughter, Courtney Elizabeth Shea, to Braden Matthew Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Chris Smith of Olathe, Kansas.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard John Shea Jr. of Mountain Brook and Linda Hall Trucks of Birmingham.

Miss Shea is a graduate of

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.

SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS! To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 823-9646.

Mountain Brook High School and Auburn University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in journalism. She was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority and a four-year letter winner for the Auburn University softball team.

She was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll. Miss Shea is the owner and operator of Ninety Three Creative, specializing in photography and videography in Carmel, Indiana.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. James Smith of Roaring Springs, Texas, and Mrs. Sandra Bolliger and the late Mr. Ron Bolliger of Abilene, Kansas.

Mr. Smith is a graduate of Olathe South High School and Auburn University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in exercise science. He was a fouryear letter winner for the Auburn University football team. He was an All-American and All-SEC, and he was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll. Mr. Smith is employed with the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis.

The wedding will be March 9.

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 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.

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Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 21

Journal photos by Ingrid Howard

2019 DECORATORS SHOWHOUSE PREVIEW | THE LEMAK HOUSE

The former Lemak home with more than 8,500 square feet of living space and lots of floor to ceiling windows offers this year’s ShowHouse decorators plenty of room and natural light to work with.

ROOM and a

VIEW

By Ingrid Howard

Photo courtesy the Lemaks

W

hen the Lemaks were living off Old Leeds Road back in the late ‘70s, their biggest issue was not having any grocery stores nearby.

“You either had to go to Irondale, or you had to come all the way down Old Leeds and Cherokee to go down to what was Bruno’s at the time,” said Georgine Lemak.

Georgine read an ad in the newspaper that said there was land for sale off of Cherokee Road near U.S. 280.

“I hurried up, and we came down and we were looking at the lots,” she said. “Most of them had already sold at that time. But there were three that were left, and we chose the one at the end.”

Georgine and husband Larry, an internationally known orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine, built their dream home on the 3½ acre lot. They raised three sons there, and the house was the backdrop for all of their family Christmas parties, pool parties and wedding showers for the next 35 years.

Decorating for Christmas was Georgine’s favorite.

“I used to decorate starting at the beginning of November, only because the two older ones were off to college,” she said. “I liked to have it decorated when they came home so that, when they

Larry and Georgine Lemak raised their three sons at the Cherokee Road home, and the house was the backdrop for all of their family Christmas parties, pool parties and wedding showers for 35 years.

opened the door, I’d have the Christmas music on and everything. They still to this day remember that.”

Despite having almost too many rooms to count, Larry said, his wife would give each room a theme during Christmastime, using different kinds of decorations in each room.

See SHOWHOUSE, page 22

When visitors come up the driveway this spring, Georgine said, they will be welcomed by the cherry and pear trees and azaleas that bloom each year.

Despite being right next to U.S. 280, Larry said, the trees and foliage make you feel secluded.

22 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

SHOWHOUSE From page 21

“We used to have very large Christmas parties,” he said. “And

HOME

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that was one of the fun things you could do there. It was something you could invite everybody you know to – and a lot of people you don’t know because there was a lot of room.”

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Their three sons would invite their friends over to the pool, but Larry and : Tricia Georgine said om: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 it’s their hot ate: October tub they miss.

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL forsurthe It was January 24, 2019 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. rounded by plexiglass windows, so no Please make sure all information is correct, how including address and phone number!matter windy it was outside, they Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. could enjoy If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, being out your ad will• run as is.• We print the paper 1831 29th Ave. S., Homewood 871-9880 Kathy Owens, CKD,Monday.

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When their Thank you for your prompt attention. children moved out, got married and started their own lives, Georgine and Clockwise from above: His and her’s walk-in closets; kitchen; and master bath.

Larry stayed in the house a little while longer. But the couple’s first contribution to the Georgine said. “Because there’s eventually, the six-bedroom house community. Larry is well known really nothing in there, so they can became too big for the pair. for his work to attract sporting do what they want. So I’m excited “We stayed there for a long time about it, I really am.” events to the area. He was instrubecause we loved the house,” mental in bringing the 1996 The Decorators’ ShowHouse is Georgine said. “It’s just so comfort- an event benefiting Alabama Olympic Soccer Games to able. But it was getting to the point Symphony Orchestra that started 43 Birmingham and founded the that we just didn’t need all that Alabama Sports Foundation to help years ago. Each year, a house gets space.” bring amateur sporting events to an interior design makeover, and the city. decorators have the opportunity to The founder of Lemak Health showcase their work. Visitors can A Blank Canvas to has treated many professional athbuy tickets ahead of time or at the Decorate letes; he has been medical director door, and refreshments are availfor Major League Soccer and the able as they browse through the When they put their house up NFL’s European League. But he’s house.

The ShowHouse decorators for sale, their real estate agent had Betty Freeman ink on paper. just as well known for working also will host seminars throughout an idea. He suggested they let the with younger athletes. He founded the event. house be this year’s ShowHouse.

WINTER SALE Working with ShowHouse is not the National Center for Sports “I thought, ‘Well, why not?’”

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Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 23

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A Feeling of Seclusion Nan Teninbaum, ShowHouse publicity chairman, said she loves the beauty of the Lemak’s former home.

“You look out the windows, I don’t care where you look out, you’re in the woods,” she said.

“You’re in nature.”

When visitors come up the driveway this spring, Georgine said, they will be welcomed by the cherry and pear trees and azaleas that bloom each year. Despite being right next to U.S. 280, Larry said, the trees and foliage make you feel secluded.

The ShowHouse is planned for April 27 through May 12. For more information and updates go to svcalabama.com. When tickets go on presale, they will be available to purchase online for $20 per person. After that and at the door, the price will be $25 per person.

“I think the decorators will do a very fine job because they normally do,” Georgine said. “You’ll be happy to see it when it’s done.”

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Good Dog

24 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

Homewood Elementary Schools Welcome Two Facility Dogs

Lowry also visited schools to make sure a facility dog would be a good fit for Shades Cahaba.

“After seeing them in action and seeing how both kids responded and hearing the effects it’s had

‘A lot of the negative emotions our kids sometimes bring to school, the facility dog can be there to comfort and help those kids.’

JOHN LOWRY, SHADES CAHABA ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

on their academic and behavioral successes, we decided we were ready to apply,” he said.

Facility dogs are different from service dogs. While a service dog has a 1-on-1 relationship with its human, a facility dog has addi-

Just Keep Singin’ VHHS A Cappella Group Invited to Perform at National Choral Conference

By Emily Williams The Vestavia Hills High School choral group will be performing March 1 at the American Choral Directors Association’s national conference in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just Singin’ was chosen from among 225 choirs that auditioned to perform at the event.

“What makes this so special is that no other public school choir from Alabama has ever been accepted to perform at (the ACDA National Conference),” said Megan Wicks-Rudolph, VHHS director of choral activities.

The group is among just more than 60 choirs with a wide range of backgrounds to be invited to perform at the competition.

“Choirs who participate are collegiate, professional, semi-professional, church, high school, middle school, community choirs, children choirs and more,” Rudolph said, adding that the group is excited to participate.

The choir was formed in 2006.

Its members are a select group of 10th- through 12th-graders who each perform with at least one other choir offered at the school. Together, the singers perform a cappella pop music.

One of the group’s biggest claims to fame, according to Rudolph, was a video that went viral in 2016. In the video, the group performed Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” in a stairwell at the school during VHHS’s annual holiday music show. The video has racked up more than one million views on Facebook and YouTube.

To prepare for their big performance at the ACDA conference, the group members have been performing at events around Vestavia Hills.

tional training to serve an entire school. Service dogs typically wear vests asking others not to pet them, but the students at HallKent and Shades Cahaba will be encouraged to pet Maize and Russell in the appropriate settings.

Hall-Kent was the first Homewood school to get a dog on staff. Because Coleman is Maize’s handler, the two live together, and Coleman said Maize is adjusting to life at school well.

“She loves it,” she said. “She loves when I say, ‘Get ready!’ …

She turns, walks and gets ready to put her vest on.”

Maize has a few tricks up her sleeve. She can sit, shake and lie down. When students want to pet her, Coleman tells Maize to sleep.

This way, students can feel comfortable, even if they don’t often interact with dogs.

“I’ve had students tell me, ‘Maize makes me so happy when I walk in the door every morning,’” Coleman said. “They beg for her to come to their classrooms and be with them. She’s just a rock star.

“She’s so happy. She likes to lick, so we’ve been working on that with the kids, telling her to leave it. And her trainer was here last week, and she said, ‘It’s just because she’s so happy.’ She loves the interaction,” she said.

Because the teachers are still getting used to handling a facility dog, Maize is usually by Coleman’s side. She walks Maize through the building and visits

Hall Kent Elementary student Zelda Hacker visits with Maize, accompanied by her handler, Hall Kent Principal Kiana Coleman.

classrooms. Coleman’s office is right next to the counselor’s office, and she will take Maize by if she hears a student upset or crying.

“And even if they’re like, ‘I just want to be by myself right now,’ eventually they start to pet her,” she said.

In the future, Coleman said, she would like for Maize to be on a rotation to help with counseling

and test anxiety.

Lowry said he is excited and nervous for Russell to move into his home this week.

“I’m thrilled to death,” he said.

“Very excited. A little nervous because it is so new and different and will be an adjustment for the dog, for our kids and for me at my home as well. ... My wife and 7-year-old are really excited, especially my 7-year-old.”

Photo courtesy Vestavia Hills High School

Two Homewood schools are welcoming furry friends to their hallways and classrooms this semester.

Maize, a year-and-a-half-old lab and retriever mix, joined HallKent Elementary School earlier in January as a facility dog. Russel, a 2-year-old black lab, is joining Shades Cahaba this week.

“They can help reduce anxiety, feelings of loneliness, depression, all those things,” said John Lowry, principal at Shades Cahaba. “A lot of the negative emotions our kids sometimes bring to school, the facility dog can be there to comfort and help those kids. And we want him to be available to as many kids as possible.”

Leigh Cohen Long, director of guidance at Homewood City Schools, brought up the idea of having a facility dog for schools in Homewood at a principal’s meeting last spring.

“The idea of having a dog that’s a faculty member that works here every day and she can touch more lives – I was really intrigued,” said Kiana Coleman, principal at Hall-Kent.

Before she applied for a facility dog at her school, Coleman wanted to see one in action. She visited Elmore County, where a facility dog works in a school.

She said she loved how excited the students were to see their dog, Popcorn, come into the classroom, and she was sold on the idea.

Journal photo by Ingrid Howard

By Ingrid Howard

Just Singin’ showcased its talents Jan. 17 at the high school’s Rise Kickoff Assembly, a fundraiser that will continue throughout spring to raise money for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB.

In December, they performed at the Deck the Heights holiday event in Cahaba Heights and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce December luncheon.

Most recently, the group show-

cased its talents Jan. 17 at the high school’s Rise Kickoff Assembly, a fundraiser that will continue throughout spring to raise money for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB.

According to Rudolph, there are groups that try for years to get invited to perform, and having the opportunity to share the stage with some of the world’s best choirs is humbling.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 25

SCHOOLS

By Emily Williams

Having been a teacher for more than 31 years, Walt Rogers could retire, but he doesn’t see much fun in that.

going to work for Rogers, so he’s trying to find his own sweet spot for exercising.

“I’m trying to do it every day when I get out of school and then one of the weekend days, mostly Saturdays,” Rogers said.

The work has already started, with Rogers working out on the treadmill, walking and running outside, doing rowing exercises and lifting weights to build muscle mass.

For professional guidance, Rogers will begin visiting CoreLife Weight Loss Healthcare starting this week. Together with a professional, he’ll be able to set up a healthy training schedule and learn new techniques to get back into shape.

by to keep tabs on his progress.

“I think I’m going to try to use my students to hold me accountable, because they will. They will,” he said.

Rogers foresees the students thoroughly enjoying asking him, “Did you run yesterday?” and “Are you going to be training today?”

He’s already started asking his students to remind him to stay hydrated.

“I have a hard time drinking water. … I told them, every day somebody say, ‘Have you had your water?’ So, I go and get a glass of water each period,” Rogers said.

“You forget. They don’t. They’re looking forward to saying ‘Did you?’ because they love it when you haven’t.

With a Little Help …

“It gives them some ownership,” he said. “And one of the big things The biggest hurdle that Walters foresees is simply being accountable that we’ve had – and this is me, personally, not academically in the sysfor his exercise habits. tem – has been a big push toward “That’s the hardest thing, because it is so easy to let things student voice. Letting students have come in the middle of it,” Rogers a voice in what they do.”

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Finding the Balance

Perfectly comfortable in his teaching routine, Rogers said he has the best students. He said his day is a good balance for him with his biology classes being more academic, setting students up for college courses, and his environmental science course, which he said is more “loosey goosey.”

Now it’s up to him to find that balance with exercise in his life.

“I think the most difficult thing is finding the time, because our lives just become inundated with things to do,” he said.

Rogers noted that one of his close friends gets up every morning at 4:30 a.m. and works out for two hours. That’s not the schedule that’s

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Bumpus Administrator Named Assistant Principal of the Year

Donna Burke, R.F. Bumpus Middle School assistant principal, has been named Alabama Assistant Principal of the Year by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools.

A member of Clas since 2011, Burke was chosen for the designation for “her administrative prowess, cooperative nature, leadership qualities, and overall commitment to her craft,” according to a release.

At Bumpus, Burke assists with curriculum, instruction, discipline, scheduling and overall day-to-day operations of the school. In addition to her regular duties, she created the Bumpus Embraces Students at Trace program. The Best program is a mentoring program for female students at nearby Trace Crossings Elementary School.

“I was brought up in a family with the attitude to work hard and do whatever it takes. This attitude has been my focus in education every day for the last 30 years. I believe that every child is important and every child has the potential to be something great,” Burke said.

Burke has served on many regional and state committees and has been recognized several times by the Alabama State Association for Health.

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It takes a village to raise a child, an African proverb attests, but Mountain Brook High School science teacher Walter Rogers is hoping his students will take on the job of helping him raise his fitness level.

Rogers is beginning to train for the Village 2 Village Run, a 7.5K being held March 9. He’s looking for students in his advanced placement biology and AP environmental science classes to hold him accountable to his goals.

“When I was in college, I did a lot of running,” Rogers said. “I didn’t do it formally, but I liked to run and I enjoyed it.”

After having knee replacement surgery about three years ago, Rogers was successful in the recovery but fell of the wagon in terms of regular exercise. Through the challenge of getting into shape for the V2V run, he’s hoping to find an exercise routine that works with his busy schedule.

It’s a busy schedule that he loves.

“I’ve always loved science,” he said. “I grew up around grandparents who lived on a farm, so I was just around animals and farming all the time. So, I had a passion for it and then had two extraordinary, fantastic science teachers in high school.”

Having been a teacher for more than 31 years, Rogers could retire, but he doesn’t see much fun in that.

“I think that I’ve learned that the key to it is having fun,” he said.

“It’s having fun and it makes every day enjoyable, more or less. I think that has helped me to enjoy my own life.

“I am always thrilled to see how kids are successful, and sometimes it has challenged me to be better. I think that it has kept me growing.”

Journal photo by Emily Williams.

MBHS Science Teacher Takes on V2V Training with Help From His Students

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Academic Accountability

easy to find the connections between the lessons in his biology classroom and his own experiences.

“In AP environmental science, we’ve been talking about dehydration and they could not believe that gastrointestinal issues were the third leading cause of death worldwide,” Rogers said.

To help his students realize why, they discussed the elderly and infants.

“I went into the idea that when you have a baby, you can’t let that baby be sick. You’ve got to get it to the hospital. One student said, ‘You know, Mr. Rogers, you’ve taught me five or six things about having children that I never knew about.’ So, I thought, that’s a win. And it’s true because they’re going to be faced with that.”

Later in life, the ideas may come up when a student has his or her own child. Maybe, too, they will remember the semester they helped their teacher get back into shape.

Either way, Rogers is looking forward to their help as he tackles the challenge to prepare for the 2019 V2V run.

“That is how teaching has been for me, being challenged constantly and not settling for what you did 30 years ago,” he said.

For more information on Village 2 Village, visit village2village10k. com.

PORSCHE PORSCHE PORSCHE PORSCHE PORSCHE

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

26 • Thursday, January 24, 2019

Journal photos by Lee Walls

Oak Mountain High School track coach Riley White, left, with senior Trey Allen at the MLK Classic held at the CrossPlex on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Allen recently set a new high jump record at the Ice Breaker Meet.

Oak Mountain High Jumper Sets State Indoor Record

Oak Mountain senior Trey Allen set an indoor AHSAA state record for the high jump, clearing 6 feet, 11 inches at the Ice Breaker Meet held at Birmingham CrossPlex.

Allen’s leap earned him the AHSAA Indoor Track Spotlight this week as well as raising the bar for other jumpers who want their names in the record books, according to an announcement from the AHSAA. The old state record was 6 feet, 10¼ inches. The national prep record of 7 feet, 5.3 inches is held by Scott Sellars, who set the mark in 2004 while competing for Cinco Ranch High School in Texas.

Allen earned All-America honors at the New Balance Nationals in North Carolina last June and set a Class 7A state record along with Baker’s Dontavious Hill in the Class 7A outdoor state championships in May. Both high jumpers hit the 6-foot, 10-inch mark in that meet.

Allen edged out Park Crossing hurdler Jasmine Riley and Oak Mountain sprinter Nicole Payne for this week’s AHSAA Indoor Track Spotlight. Both girls have shined this indoor season.

Payne was to be among top high school track stars in the state trying to set new records during the 2019 MLK Classic held at the CrossPlex on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Results of the MLK Classic were not available at press time.

Former Rebel Helps Clemson Win National Championship Nolan Turner, who was a standout football player for Vestavia Hills High School, will soon be wearing a National Championship ring. The redshirt sophomore safety for Clemson University made four tackles in the National Championship Game against No. 1 Alabama.

The Tigers defeated the Tide 44-16. Turner recorded his first career interception in the Cotton Bowl against No. 3 Notre Dame.

Other Bests at Ice Breaker

Beau Reed of Vestavia Hills rolled the top game among boys playing in the South Regional with a 277.

Vestavia Hills High School’s boys team heads to the AHSAA State Bowling Tournament this week, where they will face East Limestone.

Vestavia finished the South Regional boys’ championship 4-0 in play at Mobile’s AMF Camellia Lanes.

The team beat McGill-Toolen Catholic 1,458 pins to 1,075, then Baker 1,535 to 1,284, Stanhope Elmore 1,501 to 1,386, and finally Hoover 1,630 pins to 1,411.

Beau Reed of Vestavia Hills rolled the top game among boys playing in the South Regional with a 277.

The state tournament will be at Pelham’s Oak Mountain Lanes Jan. 24-25.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Vestavia Hills Bowlers Advance to State Tournament

Two other Over the Mountain track athletes marked season highs during the Icebreaker Classic, held Jan. 5 at the CrossPlex.

Makiyah Sills, a senior sprinter at Homewood, turned in the best 60-meter hurdles time of the season at the meet, with a winning time of 8.77 in the 6A/7A competition to set a new girls’ record for the meet.

Will Stone of Homewood set an Icebreaker Classic indoor record for the 1,600 meters with a 4:19.04 time in the 6A/7A division, best in the state this indoor season. Stone also has the best time in the 3,200 meters this season, 9:22.99, which he ran in the Magic City Invitational on Dec. 1.

Hoover High School pole valuters Kirsten Leonard and Alex Inglis competed in the MLK Classic on Monday.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

From page 28

“We’ve had guys who have stepped up and are buying into what we’re doing,” Shepler added.

“We play about eight or nine guys.

We’ve had five or six kids who have scored in double figures in games.”

The Patriots have 10 seniors, reminiscent of the 2015-16 team that won the Class 6A state championship, the first boys basketball title in school history.

Senior forward Logan Padgett was a freshman that season, so he understands what experience means to a team.

“This year is a lot similar situation to my freshman year,” Padgett said. “You have a different level of chemistry since you have been playing together for several years.

It’s good being with guys I’ve been playing with since the sixth or seventh grade.”

With such an experienced team, practices sometimes are more competitive than games.

“We’ve got some competitive kids,” Shepler acknowledged. “Our practices are very competitive.”

Since starting the season 5-3, Homewood has gone 15-3 with winning streaks of six and seven games, plus two strong showings in tournaments in December.

The Patriots traveled to Orlando, Florida, the week before Christmas for the KSA Events

Classic. They dropped their opener 50-43 to Palos Verdas Peninsula (California), but bounced back to beat Monarch (Colorado) 50-31, Bishop Shanahan (Pennsylvania) 59-56 and Dunbar (Florida) 59-48.

“We played some good teams in Orlando,” Shepler said. “We won three out of four, which was good news for us. We got adjusted and everything started to come together as a team.”

Williams’ Return

It’s no coincidence that happened with the return of senior guard Larkin Williams. He missed the first 14 games of the season because of a foot injury related to football. Williams, who has a scholarship offer from Berry College to play football and basketball, was the Patriots’ starting quarterback as they reached the Class 6A quarterfinals before being eliminated by eventual champion Pinson Valley.

“He knows what we need and the ball happens to be in (his) hands a lot,” Shepler said.

“He’s got a coaching mentally,” Padgett said. “He doesn’t score a ton of points, but he’s a great facilitator. He makes sure everybody is where they’re supposed to be on the court.”

After Christmas, Homewood won the Metro Tournament, which it hosted. The Patriots beat Woodlawn 48-38, Spain Park 49-28 and Oak Mountain 40-36 in double

Journal photo by Mark Almond

REBELS From page 28

But he’s confident that if he and his teammates can polish things up, they’ll make a strong run.

Dazzio is one of the many at Vestavia Hills who have spent a decade or more in a competitive youth and high school program.

“We had a bunch of family friends that had been a part of the sport for a long time, and they got me and my older brother into it,” Dazzio said. “Vestavia has a great club program with great coaches.

overtime in the championship game.

The 6-foot-5 Padgett is having a strong season. He leads the team in scoring, averaging 14 points per game. He also averages 6 rebounds.

He has committed to play college basketball at Samford, where his dad, Scott Padgett, is the head coach.

“He’s playing well,” Shepler said. “He’s more physical and he’s matured. He’s taking the ball down in the post and he handles the ball more, which helps give us another

dimension.”

Senior wing Jack Dorough is another solid player and one of the team captains along with Padgett and Williams.

Sophomore guard Bo Barber has been steady. He’s the younger brother of Hannah Barber, who starred on the Homewood girls team and is now a freshman at Alabama. Bo Barber is the Patriots’ second-leading scorer at 9.2 points per game, and he made a 3-pointer at the buzzer in a 41-40 victory against Spain Park on Jan. 4.

“He’s a tough, gritty player and he’s extremely skilled,” Shepler said.

Junior guard Marcello Nanni has gained a reputation for taking charge, and freshman guard P.J. Davis has been a pleasant surprise.

“He was at Homewood then he left for a year, although he still lived in Homewood,” Shepler said of Davis. “He’s done a lot for us.

He’s very athletic.”

Padgett’s younger brother

Lucas, a 6-foot-2 sophomore center, also is on the team.

“They were going to put him on the JV at first but decided to put him on the varsity,” Logan Padgett said. “What it has meant to both of us being on the team together is special.”

The Patriots (20-6) entered this week with only four regular season games remaining before the start of the Class 6A, Area 10 tournament.

Huffman will host the area tournament because it beat Homewood twice, including a 50-49 overtime decision last Friday.

Shepler believes his team will be a contender in the postseason, but he said it will be a challenge to reach the state tournament.

“I think we are capable of making a deep run,” he said. “But the Northeast Region is loaded with several ranked teams such as Pinson, Lee-Huntsville, Mae Jemison, Columbia, Buckhorn and us and some other good teams – Huffman, Albertville and Oxford.

MARCH 9

Vestavia Hills’ Carter Gill (red) defeats Spain Park’s Andrew Moses in the 182-lb class.

After Christmas, Homewood won the Metro Tournament, which it hosted. The Patriots beat Woodlawn 48-38, Spain Park 49-28 and Oak Mountain 40-36 in double overtime in the championship game.

MARCH 9

HOMEWOOD

Thursday, January 24, 2019 • 27

SPORTS

Christian Staylor was my coach growing up. Now James Nicholson is there, and he’s doing a great job.

That’s been a big part of our success the past few years.”

The Rebels defeated HewittTrussville in AHSAA State Duals last week. Vestavia Hills was set to meet Hoover in the State Duals on Tuesday. The championship of the State Duals and location will be based on that outcome.

This year’s super section tournaments take place Feb. 8-9, while the state tournament follows in Huntsville on Feb. 14-16.

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Reed leads leads Vestavia back to AHSAA State Bowling Tournament Page 26

Thursday, January 24, 2019 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

REBEL RUN

Oak Mountain high jumper sets state indoor record Page 26.

Seniors Have Homewood Basketball Team Thinking About Another Run at a State Title

By Rubin E. Grant

Journal photo by Mark Almond

Homewood boys basketball coach Tim Shepler was cautiously optimistic entering this season, especially since he had a seniorladen team.

“We had our hopes that if everything went well, we would have a pretty good team this year,” Shepler said last week, a night after the Patriots posted their 20th victory of the season with a 51-36 rout at Shades Valley.

See HOMEWOOD, page 27

Vestavia Hills’ Pete Dazzio wrestles Spain Park’s Gage Hughes in the 170-lb class in a match on Jan. 3 at Spain Park High School.

By Blake Ells The Alabama High School Athletic Association wrestling tournament is fast approaching, and Vestavia Hills hopes to improve on last season’s third place finish.

Vestavia claimed back-to-back state championships in 2016 and 2017 before being dethroned last year by Thompson’s

victory. Central (Phenix-City) claimed second place.

The Rebels already have played against some tough competition, visiting New Orleans for the Trey Culotta Invitational at Brother Martin High School and Brentwood, Tennessee for the G.P. West Invitational.

They finished second as a team in New Orleans, while senior Pete Dazzio finished first in his usual 170-pound weight class. In Brentwood, the Rebels claimed third as a team, while Dazzio wrestled up a class and finished second in the 182-pound class.

“It’s a little different than normal, wrestling bigger, stronger guys,” Dazzio said.

“But if you just wrestle well, it doesn’t feel much different – if you keep good position.”

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Dazzio feels like his team is in good shape to accomplish its goals.

“We came up short last year, but we feel like we didn’t perform to the best of our ability,” Dazzio said. “This year, we’re working on peaking at the right time. We feel like if we wrestle well and we wrestle how we can wrestle, we don’t think there’s anyone that can beat us.”

He has personal goals that he continues to reach for as he leads his team to the postseason.

“I need to get in better shape to finish off the year,” Dazzio said. “I need to work on worrying about getting into my offense and not worry about what my opponent is doing.”

See REBELS, page 27

Senior forward Logan Padgett.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Vestavia’s Dazzio Confident Rebels Will Make A Strong Bid to Reclaim State Wrestling Title