2.8.18

OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM

SOCIAL

SPORTS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2018

A Heart for LOVE

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

Heart Ball Honoree Shares Journey of (Literal) Heartache and Romance Jeanne and Jared Love with son, Tucker.

Jeanne was diagnosed with a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy when she was just 18 months old. Doctors believed it was caused by an infection and they were hopeful she would outgrow it by the time she was 8 years old. By Christmas of 1994, Fowler could hardly walk and, as an 11-year-old, was down to 57 pounds.

She was in heart failure.

See story, page 12.

INSIDE

LENTEN LUNCHES Preaching series celebrates 110 years of services in downtown Birmingham PAGE 4

STATE OF THE CITIES Homewood and Mountain Brook mayor’s reflect on recent accomplishments, current challenges and plans for 2018.

PAGE 10

A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Samford class gives easy, healthy cooking a global flavor PAGE 24

2 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

MURPHY’S LAW

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

R Birmingham Bill Makes a Statement

Last Friday, the Birmingham Zoo’s weather expert, Birmingham Bill, announced his Groundhog Day prediction of six more weeks of winter to staff member Kelly Garrison, above left, and a crowd of onlookers. In addition to spending time with the celebrity groundhog and meteorologist extraordinaire, visitors, were treated to coffee and hot chocolate provided

by Red Diamond, played kid-friendly games and watched a special Wildlife Show.

More Good News at the Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo has been recognized with a 2017 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.

TripAdvisor gives Certificates of Excellence to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers.

“We are excited to have received a Certificate of Excellence for 2017.

This award is based off of feedback from the public, and we are happy to serve the community as an educational resource to visit and make lasting memories with their friends and families,” Kerry Graves, vice president of sales and marketing for the zoo said in a press release.

For more information about the zoon, visit birminghamzoo.com. ❖

IN THIS ISSUE ABOUT TOWN 4 PEOPLE 8 NEWS 10 LIFE 12 SOCIAL 18

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

WEDDINGS 23 FOOD 24 SCHOOLS 28 SPORTS 32

ON 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.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L February 8, 2018 Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Sarah Kuper, 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: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Vol. 28, No. 13

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 2017 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 Wuf You

right card to every child in their class. “I oom Mother Alert: Go with Go Ape For You” could go to someone sprinkles. whose hilarity garners them more timeI bought a bag of candy hearts to send to my grandchildren for outs than time in class. The boy who Valentine’s Day, the traditional pastel brought his schnauzer for Show-and-Tell ones that come with edible messages might like “Doggone It, I Like You,” but stamped all askew on the front. I was he might think it means you want to sit divvying them up into plastic containers next to him on the bus. “I Wuf You” is so I could rush them off to the post dangerously close to the actual “L” word office, when I noticed that one of the and should only be given to your mom or your teacher if you really, really like hearts said, “Hot Mama.” Not exactly her and you know she wouldn’t laugh at the message I wanted to send, so I set you no matter what. that one aside in the “Grandma will eat Likewise, on the receiving end of later” pile and went on to check the rest things, some kids will hurriedly tear of the hearts. through their Valentine boxes, saving “Love Is Sweet”? Yes, it is. “My Sue Murphy only the pencils and ring pops, but othStar”? You betcha. My grandson was will carefully read each card tryasked to lead the Pledge of Allegiance The boy who brought ers ing to read between the printed lines. at the Grandparents’ Day breakNone of the cards will be blatantly fast. (Color me proud.) “You’re The his schnauzer for One”? Well, one of four equally loved bad. No one would send a child to Show-and-Tell might grandchildren, but sure. “Call Me school with a bunch of cards that say, “You’re a Loser.” Or at least I hope Anytime”? Yes, my darlings, day or like “Doggone It, night. not. Still, deep-thinker children will I Like You,” but he “Sorry” is a good word to pracponder whether “You’re A Peach,” tice, just not the message I needed to means that someone really likes you, might think it means or does that honor go to the person send that day. “For You My Love”? A you want to sit next to who got “We Make a Good bit Cassanova, but harmless. “Hold Me Tight”? Only if you’re talking Pear”? That hurriedly scribbled him on the bus. about hugs for Grandma at this point, “You’re On The Right Track” but OK. Valentine could be taken to mean that “Come Near,” “Oh Baby, Baby,” our Mario Cart buddy thinks someone and “Love Me Tender” went in the “Hot is AOK or close, but not in the inner cirMama” reject pile. In this world, there’s cle. Having two granddaughters, I can tell love and then there’s “Hubba Hubba,” you that if your friend gives you an Elsa and Grandma is definitely not going card from her Frozen Valentine pack, you’re in. If it’s Anna, you’re second there. tier. Even though Anna is the real heroThis candy censoring might seem ine in the story, she doesn’t have the big excessive, but when you are just starting to read, every word counts. Right now, song or the sparkly dress. Sad, but true. some children are hunched over the kitchSo, Room Mothers, you’ll be walking en table randomly scribbling their names into an emotional minefield. A child who across 32 Valentines so they can go play Mario has just been hit with an Anna card cannot hanCart. Others, however, are pouring through their carefully dle a cupcake topped with a candy heart that says chosen packs of Valentines to make sure they give just the “Sorry.” Go with sprinkles. They’ll Wuf it. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What’s your favorite romantic comedy? “‘The Princess Bride,’ I’ve always liked it. Even as a kid I thought it was so romantic.”

Eden Pfaff Vestavia “‘You’ve Got Mail,’ I think it’s funny and heart warming it never gets old.”

Erin Beshears Vestavia “‘Crazy, Stupid, Love.’ a bunch of different stories that come together at the end to relate to each other.”

Anna Mansfield Homewood “‘Bride Wars,’ it’s just really funny it keeps me entertained.”

Madison Morgan Homewood

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 3

OPINION/CONTENTS OPTION 1A

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4 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

CD Special!

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Fri., Feb. 9 BIRMINGHAM

All Aces Casino Night Cahaba Brewing Company The Junior Board of Junior Achievement of Alabama, an organization that offers student programs to foster work-readiness, financial literacy and more, will host a casino tournament from 7-11 p.m.

Tickets are $30 and include $500 “play cash” to use at the tables. For more information, visit allacesforja.com.

Photo courtesy Cathedral Church of the Advent

We’re celebrating our birthday with a

FEB 8-22

Feb. 9-10 MOUNTAIN BROOK

Sweet Repeats Mountain Brook Community Church The church will host its annual consignment sale, featuring children and teens clothing, sports equipment toys and more. Shopping hours are Feb. 9 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (no strollers allowed from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.) and Feb. 10 from 9 a.m.-noon. Proceeds benefit the church’s short-term mission projects. For more information, visit mbccsweetrepeats.blogspot.com.

From left, Liz Lee, Katie Patrick, Tanya Cooper, The Very Reverend Andrew Pearson, Deborah Leighton, Lyn Lanier, Jean Oliver and Janice Pitts.

Lenten Lunches

Preaching Series Celebrates 110 Years of Services in Downtown Birmingham The Cathedral Church of the Advent is celebrating 110 years of weekday Lenten services with its Lenten Preaching Series beginning Feb. 14, Ash Wednesday, and continuing through March 30, Good Friday.

The longest weekday series in the country, includes 25-minute services led by local and international guest preachers beginning at 12:05 p.m. each day. Many people from downtown as well as the suburbs join together at this interdenominational service for a time of reflection and fellowship as a peaceful break from their busy workdays leading up to Easter. Lunches of salads, soups, sandwiches and hot entrees are served to the public at a modest price each day from 12:05 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the parish hall and dining room. The lunches are coordinated by parishioners Tanya Cooper, Lyn Lanier, Liz Lee, Jean Oliver, Katie Patrick and Janice Pitts.

Advent is in downtown Birmingham, at 20th Street and 6th Avenue North.

Over 5,000 lunches were served last year, raising more than $35,000. The proceeds have been distributed to many mission programs both locally and globally, supported by the Advent over the years. Proceeds from the series this year will go to Foundations Early Learning Center in Fairfield.

Information about the schedule of preachers, menus, shuttle buses and the nursery will be available on church’s website, adventbirmingham.org, under the “Ministries” tab. ❖

HOOVER

Giggles & Grace Asbury United Methodist Church The church will host its consignment sale, featuring children’s clothing, toys, books, shoes and more. Sale hours will be Fri., from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sat., from 8 a.m.-noon. For more information, visit asburygigglesandgrace.com.

Feb. 9-11 BIRMINGHAM

Mercedes-Benz Marathon Weekend Linn Park The annual marathon, half marathon and marathon relay will begin in front of Boutwell Auditorium by Linn Park at 7:03 a.m. All marathon events taking place on Feb. 11 will benefit The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs. For more information, visit mercedesmarathon.com.

2121 Highland Ave.

1360 Montgomery Hwy.

Birmingham

Vestavia Hills

205.822.5500

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myprogressbank.com *APY (Annual Percentage Yield) is effective as of February 1, 2018 and is subject to change at any time. Minimum to open CD is $10,000. CD owners must open a new or have an existing Progress Bank checking account to receive this promotional rate. $1,000 minimum opening balance on new checking accounts. CD interest will be calculated on a 365 day basis, compounded daily and paid monthly with a transfer into a Progress Bank checking, savings or money market account or interest can be added to the CD balance each month. APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity.

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King’s Stable Benefit Ball The Grand Bohemian The Junior Board of King’s Stables host Murder at the Grand Gatsby, a Roaring 20’s theme murder mystery dinner, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. The event features a cocktail hour, silent auction, complimentary beer, wine and a three course meal. Proceeds support programs and services at King’s Stables, a therapeutic equestrian center located in Wilsonville. For more information, visit kingshome. com.

Sat., Feb. 10 BIRMINGHAM

ArtBLINK Gala UAB Kirklin Clinic The Advisory Board of the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center will host its 33rd annual gala fundraiser beginning at 6:30 p.m. featuring food, drink and music. Local artist will create works of art in 90 minutes for a silent auction. For more information, visit artblink.org.

BIRMINGHAM

Heart2HeART Bridgestreet Gallery & Loft aTeam Ministries will host its annual fundraiser supporting children with pediatric cancer. Patients will be paired up with local artists and will create pieces. The works of art will be auctioned off along with various vacation packages and items. The event begins at 6 p.m. For more information, visit “2018 Heart2HeART Event” Facebook page.

Photo courtesy Samford Legacy League

Member FDIC

MOUNTAIN BROOK

VESTAVIA HILLS

Scholarship Luncheon, Feb. 15 A Private Club Samford Legacy League hosts its annual winter luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Open to the public, the event features Angie Smith, Christian speaker and best-selling author of “Seamless” and other books, Tickets are $50. Proceeds provide scholarships for deserving students.

For more information, visit samford. edu. ❖

Sun., Feb.11 HOOVER

Choral Concert Riverchase United Methodist Church Riverchase UMC will host the tenth annual Over the Mountain Festival of Sacred Music Chorus and Chamber Orchestra at 4 p.m., directed by Dr. Andrew Minear, Director of Choral Activities at the University of Alabama and accompanied by Diane Norton

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Fri., Feb. 16

Photo by Kelly Campbell

BIRMINGHAM

Steve Berry HOOVER

Southern Voices Festival 2018 Feb. 20, 23-24 Hoover Public Library The 2018 Celebration of Writing, Music and Art will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with A History of Southern Photography - Opening Reception featuring a lecture by photographer Baldwin Lee at 6 p.m. on the Theatre Level. An evening with Steve Berry, “New York Tmes” number one internationally best-selling author of more than 15 novels and four e-book originals will be Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. The Author Conference will be Feb. 24 from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. with book sales and signings to follow the afternoon session. For more information, visit hooverlibrary.org. ❖ organist. A pre-concert lecture will be presented by Dr. Milburn Price, former Dean of the Samford University School of the Arts, at 3:15 p.m. For more information, visit otmfestivals.org/nextfestival/.

HOOVER

Mystic Krewe of Barkus-Birmingham Parade of Pups Cajun Steamer, Hoover Shelby County Humane Society host a parade of pups from 2-6 p.m. featuring music and food. Walk with your decked out pooch, kids, mini float, golf cart, bike or trike. Enter your dog to be queen or king of the parade by fundraising for the shelter. Donation to Shelby Humane Society required to enter parade. For more information, visit “Mardi Gras Parade of Pups” Facebook page.

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 5

ABOUT TOWN

A Night Under the Big Top The Club The Junior Board of Glenwood will host it’s annual fundraiser benefitting children with autism from 8 p.m.midnight. The event will feature food and drink, casino fun, silent and live auctions, live music by The Divines and silent disco with DJ Mark AD. Tickets are $80, $150 per couple. For more information, visit glenwood.org.

Sat., Feb. 17 BIRMINGHAM

Chinese New Year Festival Boutwell Municipal Auditorium The Chinese Festival Association will celebrate Lunar Chinese New Year from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. with food, stage shows and culture booths. For more information, visit bhamchinesefestival. org.

Fireballs the modern alternative

HOMEWOOD

Birmingham Does Broadway Samford University Wright Center Birmingham’s best and brightest will join the ASO at 8 p.m. for a variety of Broadway hits, from Rodgers & Hammerstein to Stephen Sondheim to Andrew Lloyd Webber, and a special

To: From: Date:

Mike Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Oct. 11, 2016

This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for t Oct. 20, 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

Reset your record.

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

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

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Thurs., Feb. 15 BIRMINGHAM

Whiskeys of the World Birmingham Botanical Gardens Plant Adventures Program Specialist Brooke McMinn and whiskey enthusiast Nathan McMinn will present a program from 6-8 p.m., featuring tastings of various whiskeys from each style discussed. Tickets are $30 for members and $35 for nonmembers for guests ages 21+. For more information, visit bbgardens.org.

HOMEWOOD

Fairy Tale Festival: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Homewood Public Library Join Alice and all of her friends for the third annual festival from 6:30-7:30 p.m. featuring tea and treats, crafts and games. Costumes encouraged.

For more information, visit homewood. libnet.info.

Go to Andrews SportsMedicine.com to start making your comeback. ©2017 Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center. All rights reserved.

6 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

ABOUT TOWN

—Galleria Woods—

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FOR THE BALLET

18th Annual Pointe Ball Offers Ballet, Dinner and Dancing

Photo courtesy Alabama Ballet

Exceptional Senior Living

100th Birthday Salute to Leonard Bernstein. For more information, visit alabamasymphony.org.

Sun., Feb. 18 BIRMINGHAM

Galleria Woods is a premier senior living community offering distinctive amenities and attentive service. Residents enjoy a dynamic lifestyle with a selection of care options to meet changing needs, including garden homes with garages in addition to independent living apartments, assisted living, skilled nursing and rehab.

Galleria Woods is an entry-fee community, which means you receive life-time care regardless of financial circumstances.

“Our Life Care program offers a unique opportunity for seniors looking to plan how they will be cared for as they age and how to pay for that care. Life care offers predictable long term care expenses, significant savings on monthly costs, tax benefits, estate preservation and a Life Care Guarantee,” Josh Hullett, Sales and Marketing said.

THE GIFT OF LIFE CARE LUNCH & LEARN WORKSHOP - FEBRUARY 15TH 11 AM Peace of mind is a gift every parent wants to give their children. Come learn about our Life Care Guarantee and enjoy lunch with others that have chosen Galleria Woods.

The Engaged Collective Haven Engaged Wedding Library is hosting a wedding planning soiree from 1-4 p.m. featuring mimosas, cake tastings, swag bags, wedding vendors, a silent auction benefiting Engaged’s bridal ministry and a fashion show finale. For more information, visit engagedbirmingham.com.

Feb. 22-25 MOUNTAIN BROOK

Emmet O’Neal Library Book Sale Emmet O’Neal Library The Friends of the Emmet O’Neal Library book sale will kick off with a preview party Thurs. from 6-8 p.m. with a minimum donation of $25. The book sale will be Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. For more information, visit eolib. org.

SAVE THE DATE

and more on Sat., from noon-7 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Children are welcome, but no strollers allowed on Sat. For more information, visit “Twice As Nice Sale (BAMOM)” Facebook page.

March 1-3 HOMEWOOD

Lil’ Lambs Consignment Sale Trinity UMC Gym The Church will hold its annual spring consignment sale Fri. from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. and Sat. from 9 a.m.noon featuring gently worn clothing, toys and furniture. All proceeds go to fund mission and outreach projects in the community, church and abroad.

There will be a preview sale March 1 for volunteers at 4 p.m., consigners at 5 p.m. and a public preview sale from 6-8 p.m. all with a $5 entrance fee. For more information visit trinitybirmingham. com/kids/lil-lambs/.

March 2-3 HOMEWOOD

Wine 10k Birmingham/ Elyse Kopecky Book Signing Patriot Park

Lemak Health presents a unique point to point run from Patriot Park to Lakeshore Park Plaza at 8 a.m.

Hydration stops along the course will provide water and Gatorade only as provided by sponsor, Buffalo Rock.

Guests can enjoy post-race mimosas and recipes previewed by Elyse Kopecky, New York Times-bestselling cookbook author and nutrition coach.

Kopecky will also be on hand for an exclusive meet and greet and book signing event on March 2 at Vulcan Park and Museum at 6 p.m. For more information, visit runsignup.com.

Thurs., March 8 HOMEWOOD

Taste of Homewood Rosewood Hall The 17th annual fundraiser is set for 5:30-8 p.m. featuring food and beverages from 30 of Homewood’s restaurants and eateries and live music.

Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 the day of the event. Proceeds benefit the Chamber’s scholarships for local students and economic development efforts in the community. For more information, visit homewoodchamber. org. ❖

Sat., Feb. 24 HOOVER

Hearts and Harmony Gala Hoover Country Club Hoover Service Club presents its annual fundraiser from 6-9 p.m. featuring, dinner, silent and live auctions with a few surprises sprinkled in. Funds raised enable the Club to carry on its legacy of “helping others”.

Reservations can be made through the website, hooverserviceclub.com or by contacting Barbara Henry, 936-0472, or Darla Williamson, 305-2082.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

T

he residents are well-educated, interesting and congenial,” said Frances Poor, above, who has been a resident at Galleria Woods for ten years. “The planned activities are varied and enjoyable. The food is outstanding. When looking for a senior living community, be certain the community you are considering provides for all of your needs: physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual and move while you are still able to make your own decisions and healthy enough to enjoy the fun activities.”

The Alabama Ballet’s 18th annual Pointe Ball will be Feb. 24 at The Club.

The evening will include a performance by Alabama Ballet’s professional company members, followed by a gourmet dinner and then dessert and dancing with music provided by Celebrity All Star Band.

The late Beverly P. Head III is the honorary chair for the event. Corporate chair is Jack Darnall, executive vice president of Brasfield & Gorrie, and gala chairs are Lindsey Druhan and Jackie Woodall. The 2018 presenting sponsor is Ram Tool & Supply Co. Other guests will include ballet Executive Director Melanie Mooney, Artistic Director Tracey Alvey and members from the company.

Proceeds from the ball fund education and scholarship programs for the ballet.

To buy tickets, which are $450 per person and $700 per couple, call development and administrative assistant Michele Swader at 322-4300. For sponsorship information, contact Mooney at 322-1259. ❖

Feb. 24-25 IRONDALE

205-985-7537

3850 GALLERIA WOODS DR, BIRMINGHAM, AL 35244 brookdale.com

Twice as Nice Sale Zamora Temple Birmingham Area Mothers of Multiples presents a sale of over 100 families’ gently used infant, children’s and maternity clothing, equipment, toys books, DVDs, housewares, electronics

BIRMINGHAM .

Dinner & Diamonds, Feb. 24 Regions Field Enjoy dinner, entertainment and silent and live auctions from 7-11 p.m. Proceeds benefit Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation. Individual tickets are $80. Complimentary valet parking. For tickets and more information, visit vestaviafoundation.org. ❖

Enjoying the festivities at last year’s Dinner & Diamonds event were, from left: Brian and Dalana Moore with Jimmy Anthony.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

50 Years of Integration

Samford Recognizes Anniversary With Author Eric Motley Speech on Childhood in Freed Slave Community, Other Events

Photos courtesy Samford University

By Sarah Kuper This year marks the 50th anniversary of integration at Samford University.

As part of the commemoration of the enrollment of the first AfricanAmerican student, Audrey Lattimore Gaston Howard, administrators are hosting several events to celebrate contributions of AfricanAmerican students and alumni.

On March 1, author Eric Motley – previous Samford University student government association president, former special adviser to President George W. Bush, and executive vice president of the Aspen Institute – will be speaking as part of the Tom and Marla Corts Distinguished Author Series.

Motley’s recent work, “Madison Park: A Place of Hope,” is a memoir about his youth growing up in Montgomery.

He was raised by his adoptive

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 7

ABOUT TOWN

On March 1, author Eric Motley – previous Samford University student government association president, former special adviser to President George W. Bush, and executive vice president of the Aspen Institute – will be speaking as part of the Tom and Marla Corts Distinguished Author Series.

grandparents in a community called Madison Park — a community established by freed slaves in 1880.

In the book, Motley credits his grandparents for prioritizing his education and the greater Madison Park community for encouraging him to achieve great things.

Motley highlights how friends, neighbors and church members would volunteer in any way they could to ensure he had the resources and education to go to college and beyond.

The memoir has received high praise from fellow authors, including Steve Jobs’ biographer Walter Isaacson, and from national media outlets, and it was listed as a “mustread” in the January edition of O, The Oprah Magazine.

Motley’s presentation will begin at 7 p.m. in Samford’s Wright Center.

In addition to the author series featuring Motley, Samford is marking the anniversary with several other programs and recognitions in the coming weeks.

The university will recognize notable African-American alumni with Audrey Gaston Howard Awards.

Chosen by a committee of alumni, faculty and staff, nominees must have distinguished themselves through professional, civic and community achievement and involvement.

These individuals will be honored throughout February to coincide with Black History Month.

For tickets to the Tom and Marla Corts Distinguished Author series, visit samford.edu/wrightcenter.

For a list of all the 50th anniversary of integration events, visit samford. edu/events/50thAnniversary. ❖

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Free Lunch and Learn Seminar:

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), from Diagnosis to Treatment Friday, February 23 • Noon-1 p.m.

Gustavo Morales, M.D. Board-Certified in Cardiac Electrophysiology and Cardiovascular Disease

Grandview Conference Rooms inside Grandview Medical Center 3690 Grandview Parkway Lunch will be provided at 11:30 a.m.

Seating is limited and registration is required.

Call 205-971-7474.

LET’S HAVE A HEART-TO-HEART. Join us at Grandview Medical Center, an Accredited Chest Pain Center and Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory, for a free Lunch and Learn presented by Gustavo Morales, M.D. Find out about the diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular, often rapid, heart rate that commonly causes poor blood flow.

Member of the Medical Staff at Grandview Medical Center

GrandviewMedicalGroup.com 100516_GRAN_LL23Feb_10_375x6_25c.indd 1

Look Forward.

1/8/18 3:35 PM

8 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

PEOPLE

Photo courtesy Smile-A-Mile

New Board of Directors Named for Smile-A-Mile

Smile-A-Mile’s Executive Committee, front, from left: Caroline Little, Bevelle Worthen and Tonya Jones. Middle: Crawford Jones, Justin Truelove and Allison Black. Back: Lee McKinney, Rosilyn Houston and Scott Price.

Not pictured: Nancy Goedecke, Angie Cameron Smith and Emmett McLean.

Smile-A-Mile has named its board of directors for 2018, and just in time for its annual Red Nose Ball, which will be Feb. 24 at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex.

Members of the board’s executive committee are Bevelle Worthen, Tonya Jones, Caroline Little, Angie Cameron Smith, Scott Price, Justin Truelove, Allison Black, Nancy Goedecke, Rosilyn Houston, Crawford Jones, Lee McKinney and Emmett McLean.

Smile-A-Mile works with children who have cancer and their families from diagnosis through treatment and in the years that follow. It is located in Birmingham but offers educational programming throughout the state.

It started in 1985 as a summer camp for kids with cancer, called Camp Smile-A-Mile. But over the years it has grown to a year-round program serving children as well as their families. The Red Nose Ball is a fundraiser for the organization.

For more information on the ball, contact Katie Langley at katie@ smileamile.com.

LVH Opens Nominations for 2018-19 Class

Leadership Vestavia Hills, a program that helps individuals build leadership potential in the community, has opened nominations for its 2018-2019 class.

Current class members and alumni can nominate individuals who they feel have exhibited leadership qualities and a concern for enhancing the quality of life in Vestavia Hills and greater Birmingham. In addition, other community organizations can choose to nominate individual candidates for the program.

Participants of LVH must attend all scheduled classes, which will be set from September to April. No more than one class day can be missed. In addition, the class must complete a group project before graduating.

Multiple nominations are encouraged, and those nominating must provide as much information as possible about the nominee.

The Leadership Vestavia Hills Selection Committee will then reach out to the nominees, who will be asked to submit applications. Subsequently, a selection committee will submit a list of 20 candidates for approval by the LVH board.

Nominations are being accepted and participant applications will be accepted from March 1 until March 31.

For more information, contact Chris Eckroate, president of LVH, at chris.eckroate@caprineeng.com; or Sam Duffey, recruitment/selection committee chairman, at samduffey@ ashfordadvisors.net.

Vestavia’s Tarrant Named Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama

On Jan. 20, Brooke Tarrant of Vestavia Hills was named Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama during the statewide scholarship program for high school girls held at the Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church in Montgomery.

In addition to the honor, she was awarded Brooke Tarrant $11,000 in cash scholarships.

Tarrant was one of 47 high school senior girls from around the state who competed to represent the state as the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama for 2018.

According to competition officials, participants were evaluated in the categories of scholastics, interview, talent, fitness and self-expression.

Throughout the upcoming year, Tarrant will represent the state at various public events and serve as a role model, spreading the program’s national outreach message of “Be Your Best Self.” The program is designed to encourage self-esteem and excellence in young people.

Tarrant will now move on to the national finals, which will take place June 28-30 in Mobile. There, she will compete against 50 other representatives and will participate in

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personal development activities and community service projects before the final competition is held.

Tarrant is the daughter of Lance and Mindy Tarrant. She is a senior at Vestavia Hills High School.

Mountain Brook’s Pat Thetford Running for Court of Civil Appeals

Former Jefferson County Circuit Judge Peyton C. “Pat” Thetford has filed papers to run as a Republican for the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals seat now held by Justice Craig Pittman, who is not running for re-election.

Thetford has Pat Thetford been working in the legal field in the Birmingham area for 27 years.

He now is with Wade S. Anderson and Associates, serving as staff counsel for State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, according to a press release from his campaign.

Former Gov. Robert Bentley appointed him to serve on the circuit court in 2015 after the Jefferson County Judicial Commission named him as one of the top three qualified candidates for the open seat.

“I believe that my background of having over 27 years of experience as a civil lawyer and Civil Circuit Judge makes me uniquely qualified to serve as an Appellate Judge on the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals,” Thetford said in the press release. “If elected, I will bring vast experience and conservative values to the court. I will work hard to administer justice fairly and equitably, but always grounded in the rule of law.”

Thetford holds a bachelor’s in commerce and business administration from the University of Alabama, a master’s in business administration from UAB, and a law degree from Cumberland School of Law. He and his family are members of Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook.

The primary election is June 5.

Vestavia Hills’ Wertheimer Earns Eagle Scout Rank

Andrew Miller Wertheimer, a member of Boy Scout Troop 76 at Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church, earned the rank of Eagle Scout on Dec. 14.

In his scouting career, Wertheimer has earned an Arrow of Light in Pack 776, 23 merit badges and the God and Country Award. He has held many leadership roles, including as patrol leader.

He recently was selected to attend the Order of the Arrow and is scheduled to attend the National High Adventure Philmont Ranch in New Mexico this summer.

For his project, Wertheimer led a group of volunteers in building 10 red wagons for Children’s of Alabama’s Red Wagon Foundation.

The foundation provides easy, safe and fun transportation for younger patients and an easier way for adults to

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

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

transport necessities during their stay.

In addition to the wagons, he created stickers for the wagons that feature jokes in the hopes that they make a patient’s ride a little more entertaining.

Wertheimer funded the project by collecting Andrew Miller donations Wertheimer from fellow scouts as well as family and friends who support Children’s of Alabama. A surplus of funds was presented as a donation to Children’s.

Wertheimer plays lacrosse for Vestavia Hills Recreation team and Steel City Stars and basketball for Liberty Park Middle School; plays drums for his school band; and attends Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church.

Altamont Junior Recognized by National Computing Group

Altamont School junior Amrita Lakhanpal has been recognized at the national level by the National Center for Women & Information Technology.

Amrita is an honorable mention for the center’s 2018 Award for Aspirations in Computing. Amrita was one of only 350 people nationally and eight in Alabama who were honorable mentions. More than 3,600 students applied for the award.

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 9

PEOPLE Amrita volunteers with the Girls Who Code Club at Altamont and has taught computer coding classes to students at Epic Elementary, where she Amrita Lakhanpal raised money to buy more than 60 Chromebooks for the school.

Hoover Chamber Welcomes New Executive Director

The board of directors of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced that April Stone will serve as the new executive director.

Stone will take over the position Feb. 19, following the retirement of Bill Powell, who served as executive director for more than 22 years.

“I want to thank the chamber’s board of directors for their vote of confidence and enthusiasm as I

transition to the executive director role at the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce,” Stone said. “I am very excited to work with this chamber as we determine our future while still focused on a comprehensive and vibrant membership program.”

A University of Montevallo graduate, Stone has served as the executive director of the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce since February 2013 and previously served as director of member relations for the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce for nearly 11 years.

Stone was chosen by the chamber board’s search committee, made up of board President Jerome Morgan Jr., Ira Levine, Kathleen Spencer, Lynn Ray, Jeff McDowell and Jason Cobb.

“We look forward to an awesome future for the chamber with April at the helm,” Morgan said. “I want to thank our search committee, who put in well over 100 hours in meetings and interviews during this process. And I want to thank Bill Powell, on behalf of our board and more than 1,200 chamber members, for his 22+ years of service to our chamber and the city of Hoover.” ❖

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NEWS

10 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

‘Hitting on All Cylinders’

By Sam Prickett Stewart Welch doesn’t like talking about the past.

The Mountain Brook mayor, now in his second year in office, demurs when asked about his proudest accomplishments so far.

“Let me take a little bit of a different angle,” he says after a pause. “My brain is all wired forward, so whatever’s in the past is in the past.”

Instead, Welch lays out his plans for the upcoming year, all of which center on what he calls his mantra: communication, communication, communication.

That involves helping local businesses connect with customers, making city government more user-friendly and cooperating with other Over the Mountain mayors on a variety of community initiatives and events.

Welch, a longtime financial executive, says that one of his priorities is helping local businesses combat the “Amazon effect,” which has seen brick-and-mortar stores losing business to online shopping.

“I think it’s a challenge,” Welch says.

Part of his plan for addressing that issue, he says, is to increase citizens’ awareness of community events — which he hopes in turn will increase their engagement with local businesses. He mentions attending an event in the city’s English Village and being surprised at the low turnout.

“There were like 10 people there, when there ought to have been 100, 150 people listening to the band and going into shops and restaurants and all of that! (But) when I’d say to people, ‘Why weren’t you there?’ they’d say, ‘What are you talking about? I didn’t know anything about it!’”

His response to this was to create the Mayor’s Circle of 100, a Monday-morning email newsletter alerting “raging fans of the city” to community events.

“All I’m asking you to do is open the email … and then commit to go to as much as you can!” he says. “Just find something fun that week and go

and take somebody with you … . And then you’ve taken those dollars and moved them into the city, because you’re going to go, ‘Oh, I’m going over to Billy’s (Sports Grill) and getting a chicken sandwich to go.’ Or, ‘Let’s have a beer at Otey’s (Tavern).’”

Another initiative designed to support Mountain Brook businesses is the 2018 Mountain Brook Restaurant Trail Challenge, which encourages residents to visit the city’s 49 eateries, a full list of which can be found at the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce’s website. Welch says the idea stemmed from a goal he’d originally set just for himself.

“I’m like everybody, I think,” he says. “I’ve got half a dozen places that I just go to all the time. So I said, ‘I’m the mayor. I ought to make a commitment to go to every eatery, take pictures, and post them on the mayor’s website. And then the Chamber of Commerce said, ‘Let’s get the whole community involved!’ So they took my idea and made it much better.”

The challenge, which is open through Dec. 1, encourages participants to document their experiences at local eateries, using the hashtag #i8mb on Instagram and Facebook. Those who go to all 49 businesses on the list will be entered in a grand prize drawing; the winner will receive numerous gift cards to local restaurants, an ice cream cake from Mountain Brook Creamery, and a cooking class and one-night stay at the Grand Bohemian hotel.

“Forty-nine is going to be a challenge,” Welch says. “Really, that’s a lot! But there’s tremendous diversity, so whatever (food) it is you like, there’s one or two of it in the city.”

The Circle of 100 and the restaurant trail both necessitate a strong web presence for the city,

1 PERCENT OF DIFFERENCE

McBrayer explained his approach to effort through an analogy and its connection to new development and updates in the city.

“At 211 degrees, water is just hot. At 212, it begins to boil. Boiling water produces steam and steam can move locomotives. It’s that 1 extra degree that makes the difference – not doing one thing 100 percent better, but doing 100 things 1 percent better,” he said.

“The city’s doing well. It is extraordinarily well-managed financially, and in every aspect.”

Mountain Brook Mayor Stewart Welch

which is something Welch says needs an overhaul.

The website is being redesigned to be more userfriendly, he says, with the eventual goal of it becoming “the communications center” for Mountain Brook — a place where City Hall, the Emmet O’Neal Library and the chamber are separated by “a maximum of four clicks.” It all comes back to his mantra, he says: “It’s all about communication.”

MAYORS COLLABORATING

That mantra also extends to his relationships with his fellow Over the Mountain mayors: Homewood’s Scott McBrayer, Hoover’s Frank Brocato, and Vestavia Hills’ Ashley Curry, two of whom took office about the same time Welch did.

“We looked at Scott and said, ‘There’s a lot we can learn from you because we are just getting started here.’ So we started meeting once a quarter, and we became buddies,” he says. “We created some safe space, you know? ‘Everything said here stays here.’”

But some collaborative ideas did make it out of those meetings. One, for instance, is a rotat-

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Journal file photo by emily Williams

Homewood Mayor McBrayer Focuses on Making Everything Just a Little Bit Better

Homewood Mayor Scott McBrayer.

Throughout his city update, McBrayer explained the ways the city has tackled projects across Homewood – focusing on parks and recreation updates and revitalization of the West Homewood and Green Springs areas.

“One of the things I wanted to announce,” McBrayer said. “I’ve proposed a road swap with ALDOT, exchanging West Lakeshore Parkway for Green Springs Highway.”

Green Springs is a state highway, which gives Homewood little say in the landscape of the area and, to a degree, in which businesses enter the area. Once an agreement was made with the Alabama Department of Transportation,

Homewood would plan to update the landscaping, lighting and other attributes on the road, McBrayer said.

“I think that Green Springs corridor can not so much be a dividing line in our city, but really a gateway and a really nice thoroughfare into our city,” he said.

Complementing those sorts of changes, McBrayer said, people can expect to see changes to the business landscape in the Wildwood area.

The first big shift has been the recent sale of the 200, 210 and 220 Wildwood Parkway buildings from Wells Fargo to Patriot Equities.

McBrayer said the company will be updating the buildings, renaming the space “Patriot Midtown Park” and working closely with the city to recruit new tenants.

FOR THE KIDS

A highlight of parks and recreation improvements will be the $6 million aquatic center at Patriot Park, replacing the old community pool with an updated version along with a splash pad and water features.

Renovations to the West Homewood Park baseball fields will continue, introducing new fields, batting cages and a multi-purpose building with a gym and office space.

In addition, McBrayer announced that the City

File photo

Mountain Brook Mayor Welch Lays Out His Plans for 2018

By Emily Williams In his annual State of the City address, Homewood Mayor Scott McBrayer took to the podium and presented not only the successes of the past year, but the progress he expects those successes to build and how they fit into his bigger picture for the city.

“My message to you this afternoon is designed to talk about the past year,” “How did we do? But the message also has to include the coming year. Where are we going?” McBrayer said in his Jan. 23 address during the Homewood Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

He said his approach to planning during his 10-year tenure has been to find the end result he wants, then focus on the actions needed to reach that goal. All the while, he said, the decisions must be guided by character, honesty and civility, which he said affects the city’s government, schools, businesses and community overall.

McBrayer said there are two rules anyone can use to promote progress and change, both of which guide him as a mayor and in business – effort and the “matchbox rule,” his guide for financial management.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ing series of anti-addiction breakfasts that will happen every quarter. Addressing addiction has been a pet cause for Curry, and the idea caught on with his fellow mayors. “It’s not like one of our communities is drug-free,” Welch says.

“That problem is everywhere … . So, we said, ‘Let’s take a step.’”

After connecting with the Alabama Teen Challenge and the Addiction Prevention Coalition, they settled on the idea of the breakfasts, which will feature a speaker and resources for those who are struggling with addiction or know someone struggling with addiction. The first one is slated for March 13 at Vestavia Hills Baptist Church; the second will be in Mountain Brook in the summer.

Roughly a month after that first breakfast, on April 7, Shades Creek Fest will serve as another collaborative effort between two Over the Mountain governments, focused on the body of water that connects Mountain Brook to Homewood. The event, which also will include Friends of Jemison Park’s Arbor Day and Friends of Shades Creek’s Shades Creek Appreciation Day, is aimed at fostering “environmental appreciation” among citizens of both cities, Welch says, and it wouldn’t have happened without that spirit of communication between the city governments.

“I thought, ‘Oh, Scott will be all over this!’” he says. “So I called him and said, this was what I want to do. And he said, ‘I love it, let’s do it!’”

That positivity carries over to Welch’s outlook for Mountain Brook. He sees no immediate challenges or obstacles for the city to face in the coming year — thanks, he says, to talented and efficient city staff.

“The city’s doing well,” he says. “It is extraordinarily well-managed financially, and in every aspect. The City Council is unbelievable.

They’re all here for the right reasons. Our department heads all know their business, really care about the city, do a great job, have great people under them ... . I’d say we’re a city hitting on all cylinders.” ❖ Council recently budgeted $350,000 for updates to Spring Park in Rosedale.

“The amount of kids that we have in the city of Homewood right now is staggering,” McBrayer said, adding that more than 700 kids signed up for the 2017-18 basketball recreational league. In addition, the West Homewood Park Pool was visited by an average of 600 children a day.

Projects that are being carried over from last year most notably include ALDOT’s Lakeshore/I-65 diamond interchange and phase II of the Shades Creek Greenway project, which connects the trail along Lakeshore Parkway to Wildwood.

On the horizon will be construction of the Curio by Hilton hotel on 18th Street; Bricktops, a fine-dining steakhouse at the former site of the Mountain Brook Inn on U.S. 280; and GianMarco’s new venture, Pizzeria GM, in West Homewood.

THE MATCHBOX RULE

Under what he calls his matchbox rule, McBrayer plans to fund projects in the city when they can be budgeted, instead of beginning projects with loaned money.

The idea was instilled in him by his parents at a young age, he said, through his chores. When he received his first $1, he was desperate to go to the store to buy a 99 cent matchbox car, but he didn’t factor in tax. Instead of giving him the few cents extra, McBrayer’s father told him to wait until he earned his dollar the next week.

“You pay cash for things and you don’t borrow.

You don’t expect people to give you things. You See HOMEWOOD, page 11

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

From page 10

go out and you work for it,” he said.

“You save your money and work for it and then it’s yours.”

The city ended 2017 with about a $360,000 surplus; the final number will be announced this month.

McBrayer noted that a major factor in having that surplus was the 1 percent increase in sales tax as of January 2017, which has generated $5.4 million and is projected to generate more than $8 million in the next year.

On the horizon, a 3 percent lodging tax will take effect this month and is estimated to generate $1 million annually.

CELEBRATE SUCCESS

In addition to outlining his plans and reflecting on the past year, McBrayer took ample time throughout his speech to dole out thanks to the many people who have gone “the extra percent” for the city.

City employees of the year were announced and included Firefighter of the Year Lt. David Everson, Police Officer of the Year Matthew Green and Employee of the Year Victor Dubose, with the sanitation department.

“This is the time for that extra degree and that extra percent of service. This is the time for that extra degree and that extra percent of cooperation. This is the time for that extra degree and that extra percent of attitude,” McBrayer said. “Just 1 percent, 1 degree, it’ll make a huge difference.”

He took the time to recognize all who work closely with him and highlighted particular successes of first responders. The fire department clocked a 6-minute and 14-second average response time this year, with most of the calls arriving between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.

The police department answered 39,395 calls this past year. In addition, arrests were up 33 percent; burglaries were down 20 percent; robberies were down 12 percent, for a decrease of 29 percent since 2015; rape was down 55 percent; and unlawful burglary of vehicles was down 14 percent compared to 2015.

“And that’s a direction I intend on us continuing,” McBrayer stated.

McBrayer also called attention to the success of the Homewood Public Library, which logged 1,294 programs attended by nearly 63,000 people this year.

The library received its second Gold Standard Award for Excellence.

“I believe it is the only library in the state to receive this award,” McBrayer said.

Library Director Deborah Fout was named the 2017 Imminent Librarian for the state of Alabama, the highest award a librarian can receive, according to McBrayer.

“It’s been said that the safest place for ships is in the harbor, but ships were made for sailing and so is Homewood,” McBrayer said. “And my prayer continues to be that God keeps a protective hedge around our city and that Homewood is safe and we continue to prosper.” ❖

Smart Response

Father of Kidnapping Victim to Speak During Rescue Innocence Gala

It has been 16 years since Elizabeth Smart was kidnapped from her home in Salt Lake City and held until she was found nine months later.

Since then, her father, Ed, has taken on the cause of preventing abductions.

Ed Smart is set to speak Feb. 22 at the Rescue Innocence Project Gala about the trafficking crisis and what others can do to fight it.

The Gala, being held at The Club, is a fundraiser. Proceeds will go to the National Center on Sexual Exploitation and to provide local training and intake facilities for minors escaping prostitution or other forms of sexual exploitation.

In addition to the fundraiser, Over the Mountain mayors are signing Human Trafficking Awareness Month proclamations to call attention to a crime that happens in even the most unlikely of places.

For more information on the Rescue Innocence Project and tickets to the event, visit rescueinnocenceproject.com.

To learn more about the gala or buy tickets, search the Rescue Innocence Project Gala on Facebook. ­—Sarah Kuper

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Journal photo by Emily Williams

HOMEWOOD,

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 11

NEWS

The money, raised through the “It Takes a Village” fundraiser, will benefit the committee’s efforts to provide hurricane relief in Texas, Florida and the Gulf islands after Hurricanes Irma and Harvey.

Restaurants Donate to Hurricane Relief

Restaurateurs gathered Jan. 29 at La Paz Restaurant and Catering in Crestline Village to present a check for $17,432.73 to the United Methodist Committee on Relief.

The money, raised through the “It Takes a Village” fundraiser, will benefit the committee’s efforts to provide hurricane relief in Texas, Florida and the Gulf islands after Hurricanes Irma and Harvey.

The fundraiser was the brainchild of Leah Harrigan of La Paz, who recruited area restaurants to join in with help from the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce.

“When we started, we thought we maybe would raise $15,000, so that was our goal. But then we passed that and we began to get closer to $17,000. It really shows that the res-

taurants here are a real community and we’re all able (to) come together and help,” Harrigan said.

Participating in the event were La Paz’s Crestline and Mt. Laurel locations, along with Mt. Laurel’s Area 41 Pizza Co., Mountain Brook’s Mountain Brook Creamery, Newk’s Eatery, and Crestline’s Mafiaoza’s, Otey’s Tavern and Taco Mama.

The restaurants offered specials one week in October, donating 10 percent of their sales for the week or a portion of their sales each day.

The check was presented to Bishop Debrah Wallace-Padgett of UMC, who said the funds will directly help those affected as the organization continues to send volunteers to areas damaged in the hurricanes. ­—Emily Williams

LIFE

12 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HEALTH FOCUS | HEART

A HEART FOR LOVE Photo courtesy American Heart Association

On New Year’s Day in 1995, the physicians and support team at UAB brought life back to Jeanne Fowler’s weak and sick heart. But little did they know how instrumental they would be in forging her future – both professionally and romantically.

Fowler was diagnosed with a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy when she was just 18 months old. Doctors believed it was caused by an infection and they were hopeful she would outgrow it by the time she was 8 years old.

The opposite proved to be true.

“Instead it got worse. It was a slow decline over a few years ... . I didn’t have as much energy as my friends and the medicine wasn’t working as well,” Fowler said.

The Fowler family lived in Savannah, Tennessee, and Jeanne was under the care of doctors there when the subject of a heart transplant first arose. She was 11 years old.

Fowler’s uncle, a physician, started asking around about where Jeanne could go to get the best second opinion.

The answer was the cardiologists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital.

Dr. Robert Bourge initially instructed Fowler to continue on medication, but eventually the necessity of a transplant became evident.

By Christmas of 1994, Fowler could hardly walk and, as an 11-year-old, was down to 57 pounds. She was in heart failure.

Fowler was quickly added to the donor list and, in less than 12 hours, a heart from South Carolina was on its way to Fowler. It was New Year’s Eve. The next day, Fowler had a successful heart transplant.

After months of recovery, Fowler was able to finish middle and high school and go on to graduate from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in psychology.

But it was the memory of a life-saving experience that led Fowler back to Birmingham to work with the very doctors who saved her life.

Fowler took a position working in Bourge’s office and later became education manager at the Kirklin Institute for Research in Surgical Outcomes, working with the same surgeon who performed her heart transplant, Dr. James Kirklin.

But, it wasn’t just the cardiologists and surgeons Fowler was eager to reconnect with after college.

“Jane (Love) worked in the Child Life Program at UAB. We met before the transplant and she took us under her wing,” Fowler said, “She took my mom grocery shopping and showed her where to go and get a haircut. She would bring games for me to play with.”

Fowler said Love, child life coordinator at UAB, had a tangible passion for helping sick children and their parents who felt lost and overwhelmed.

That’s why, after losing touch for years after her heart transplant, Fowler connected with Love looking for ways to get involved.

What she found was a fulfilling opportunity to volunteer, a broader relationship with the transplant community, and a romance with Love’s son Jared.

“She (Love) brought me to transplant camp

Raymond and Kathryn Harbert are this year’s ball honorees. The American Heart Association’s Heart Ball will be March 3 at Barber Motorsports Museum.

Party With a Purpose at This Year’s Birmingham Heart Ball

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

By Sarah Kuper

Heart Ball Honoree Shares Journey of (Literal) Heartache and Romance

At this year’s American Heart Association Heart Ball, Fowler (above with husband Jared Love and son Tucker) will be honored and will have a chance to share her story. She said she is thankful for the opportunity to highlight the strides UAB has made in the cardiology field and the ongoing research funded in part by the American Heart Association.

as a counselor and Jared was there,” Fowler said, “I had seen him at the transplant picnic in April and I was hoping he would be at camp.”

Fowler said both she and Jared Love are shy by nature, so it took months of texting and emailing before the two were a couple.

After meeting Jared Love in the summer of 2008, Fowler said “yes” to changing her last name to Love in March 2011.

Birmingham’s Heart Ball brings attention to the impact the national association has on the research and treatment of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, which are the firstand third-leading killers of Alabamians, respectively.

“I wanted it to be quicker. I think we knew within the first six months, but Jared was a little slow,” Fowler joked.

After Fowler became Love by marriage, next, as the rhyme goes, was the baby carriage.

Jeanne and Jared Love adopted their son, Tucker, when he was just a few days old.

“I don’t know what we would do without

Tucker,” Fowler said.

The couple is in the process of adopting again.

Sharing Hope

When Fowler isn’t working or spending time with her family, she volunteers herself as a resource for children and parents who are feeling many of the same emotions she felt all those years ago.

“Jane lets me know if there are families who would benefit from meeting me and asking me questions,” she said, “It is really for the parents to see me and see that I’m doing well as someone who has been through it.”

Fowler said she remembers her own mother seeking reassurance from other children who had had successful transplants.

“Sometimes it is just for parents to see me, not necessarily to even ask questions. It is just to give families hope,” Fowler said.

Being the embodiment of a successful transplant is just one way Fowler serves the transplant community.

At this year’s American Heart Association Heart Ball, Fowler will be honored and will have a chance to share her story.

She said she is thankful for the opportunity to highlight the strides UAB has made in the cardiology field and the ongoing research funded in part by the American Heart Association.

The American Heart Association’s 31st Annual Birmingham Heart Ball will be March 3 at Barber Motorsports Museum.

This year’s fundraising goal for the ball is $2 million. Funds raised through the event go to local research, advocacy and community education efforts to fight cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Since its inception, the ball has raised more than $16 million for the cause.

Raymond and Kathryn Harbert are this year’s ball honorees.

Raymond Harbert, chairman and chief executive officer of Harbert Management Corp., an alternative asset investment management firm, has served in leadership roles for many professional and civic organizations in the area and was inducted into the Alabama Academy of Honor in 2015.

Kathryn Harbert also has been involved in many community organizations, including the YWCA Central Alabama, the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham and Red Mountain Theatre Company.

“All of us have had friends and family affected by heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions,” said Kathryn Harbert. “The American Heart Association is dedicated to saving people from the leading cause of death in the U.S. For that reason, we are honored to serve as the 2018 Birmingham Heart Ball honorees.”

In addition to raising money, Birmingham’s Heart Ball brings attention to the impact the national association has on the research and treatment of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, which are the first- and third-leading killers of Alabamians, respectively. It also brings attention to the efforts by local officials and volunteers to carry out the association’s mission to help people build healthier lives.

Wells Fargo is the signature sponsor for the ball. Media sponsors are the Over the Mountain Journal, ABC 33/40 and Shelby County Newspapers.

For more information and tickets, search Facebook for 2017-2018 Birmingham Heart Ball. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 13

LIFE VALENTINE’S DAY FUN

Taking the Leap

Thurs., Feb. 8 HOMEWOOD

Red Mountain Park Helps Lovers Celebrate Valentine’s Day

By June Mathews Ever since romance first blossomed, lovers have suffered heartbreak.

Some deal with it and move on; others fall into a pit of life-altering despair; yet others choose to end it all by leaping from a lofty height.

Thus the term Lovers Leap.

But Red Mountain Lovers Park is invit- Leap is an ing local lov- exhilarating after-dark ers to celezipline ride brate down the Valentine’s side of Red Day in a way Mountain. that gives the term a positive spin. The evening of Feb. 10, local lovers will take the leap side-by-side on the 1,000foot Mega Zip from the top of the Kaul Adventure Photo courtesy Red Mountain Park Tower.

An unforgettable adventure, Lovers Leap 2018 is an exhilarating after-dark zipline ride down the side of Red Mountain. Participants will start from 80 feet in the air and reach speeds up to 30 mph on the way down. The adventure ends with flowers, photos and s’mores at the fire pit below, depending on weather conditions.

Cathlena Martin and husband Stephen Bennett will be taking the leap as part of their Valentine’s Day celebration, which also will include a local theater production the following weekend.

“I follow Red Mountain on

Facebook and saw their event posting,” said Martin, who teaches game studies and design at the University of Montevallo. “We had previously discussed signing up for one of the zip lines and just hadn’t gotten around to it. The extra twist of doing it after dark prompted me to go ahead and schedule the leap.”

Even though the Homewood couple has enjoyed celebrating Valentine’s Day in a variety of ways, this, said Martin is probably the most unusual.

And while the prospect of a nocturnal mountain adventure wouldn’t be every lover’s idea of an enjoyable evening, Martin is looking forward to it.

“I’m excited,” she said. “I love roller coasters, and I hope this will be akin to the experience of Space Mountain Disney World.”

The Kaul Adventure Tower is an 80-foot solar-lighted structure designed for keeping outdoor adventurers, young and old, active and entertained.

Similar to a giant beanstalk in appearance, the tower provides opportunities for rappelling, rock climbing, vine climbing and ziplining.

In addition to the Kaul tower and associated activities, Red Mountain

Valentines for Children’s Hospital Homewood Public Library The Library will collect valentines for Children’s Hospital all day. Stop by the children’s department to make one or bring your own from home.

The following items are not allowed: food, candy, balloons, religious messages, rubber bands and tiny objects. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

Feb. 8-14 ALL OVER THE MOUNTAIN

Show Your Love The 3rd annual King’s Ranch/Hannah Home “Show Your Love” Valentines’s Mailbox Decorating Benefit will continue as “Cupids” decorate your mailbox with a signature large pink and red bow and place a “Show Your Love” sign in your yard, sharing support for King’s Ranch/Hannah Home’s mission with your community. For more information, visit kingshome.com.

Feb. 9-10 HOMEWOOD

Valentines Dinner Theatre Homewood Library South City Theatre presents Romantic Comedy by Bernard Slade.

The play brings a simple charm to the stage, with an uplifting message and laughs at every turn. There will be a buffet dinner starting at 6:30 p.m. with the show to follow at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

Healthy Legs are Beautiful Legs

Sat., Feb. 10

Are unsightly, painful spider veins or varicose veins standing between you and the healthy activities you enjoy? You don’t have to live with the embarrassment and discomfort. Trust your veins to the vascular experts at the UAB Vein Clinic.

BIRMINGHAM

Wild About Chocolate The Harbert Center The 14th annual Valentine gala will be held from 7-10 p.m. and benefit the Alabama Wildlife Center. The event will feature appetizers, chocolate desserts, silent and live auctions, live music and

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14 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

Dr. Gustavo Morales treats patients in Grandview Health’s electrophysiology lab - one of only a few in the nation to be accredited by the Heart Rhythm Society.

Starting Young

Cardiologist to Speak on Preventing Heart Condition Before It Starts During Lecture Series Growing up in a family of physicians, Dr. Gustavo Morales said he always knew what career he would pursue.

Now, his love of medicine and his interest in the workings of the human heart have brought him to Grandview Medical Center as a cardiologist with Alabama Cardiovascular Group.

Morales is board certified in cardi-

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ac electrophysiology and cardiovascular disease. “I used to help my father at his work and I was always interested in rhythm problems of the heart,�

Morales said.

Morales completed years of training under well-known physicians in cardiology and now he is sharing his knowledge and expertise with a wider audience as he speaks at Grandview Medical Center’s Heart-to-Heart lunch and learn seminar. Morales will be speaking about an increasingly common heart condition called atrial fibrillation, or AFib. “People should be aware that this condition exists even though people don’t always feel anything different,�

Morales said.

AFib is characterized by an irregular, rapid heart rate that can cause heart palpitations and shortness of breath.

While the symptoms may seem the same as the effects of a hard workout, true AFib can lead to a stroke or worse.

Grandview’s electrophysiology lab is one of only a few in the nation to receive cardiac electrophysiology accreditation by the Heart Rhythm Society/Intersocietal Accreditation Commission.

Morales is using this lab and other resources at Grandview to further treatments for AFib and help increase quality of life for his patients.

His talk at the Feb. 23 lunch and learn will center on emerging methods of treatment and prevention.

Morales has helpful tips to prevent heart conditions such as AFib. Some are familiar such as diet and exercise, but he also suggests people take a much longer and broader approach to staying heart-healthy. “Risk factors for AFib are cardiovascular age, high blood pressure and cholesterol, but we don’t want people to be thinking about these things after it is too late,� he said.

Morales said it is never too early to take care of one’s heart and, he emphasizes, to be a role model to young people. “Kids need to be thinking about this. It starts with recognizing what we teach our kids to do is what they are going to become,� he said, “We need to start by example in the way we take care of ourselves.�

Morales said in autopsies of children as young as 10 who have died from other causes, experts have seen early signs of heart disease.

For his part, Morales said he works to help AFib patients prevent strokes and control symptoms.

Taking blood thinners is one way to decrease the risk of a stroke, but Morales said catheter and other procedures to restore correct heart rhythms are advancing.

Morales’ talk is the first in a yearlong series on heart-related topics.

Experts from several cardiac specialties will speak throughout the year.

The free seminar begins at noon Feb. 23 in the conference rooms at Grandview Medical Center. Seating is limited and registration is required.

To sign up, call 971-7474. â?–

7/28/17 11:01 AM

Tiny Procedures Yield Lifesaving Results Birmingham Heart Clinic Doctors Keep up With New Procedures Year-Round

By Sarah Kuper February is American Heart Month, but for the physicians of the Birmingham Heart Clinic, it is just like any other time of the year.

That’s because preventing and treating the many complicated conditions of the heart is a year-round job.

Drs. James Towery and Robert Yoe are interventional cardiologists with Birmingham Heart Clinic.

They are specifically trained in procedures such as heart catheterization and stent placement. The procedures these doctors perform are minimally invasive and have fewer risks of complications. Often patients go home the same day.

During a cardiac cath procedure, a thin hollow tube is inserted into a large blood vessel that leads to the heart.

This can provide information on how well the heart is functioning and identify problems. It also is used to perform procedures that clear blocked arteries.

Towery and Yoe are well trained in the latest approaches to heart catheterization such as using radial (wrist), femoral (groin), pedal (ankle) or popliteal (knee) approaches to the arteries.

Towery said he has loved studying and treating the heart since his first day of medical school, and medicine has come a long way since then.

Yoe shares the same excitement for

‘The technology as a whole is changing, not every year but every month. It is beyond rewarding to see how patients used to be in the hospital for five to seven days now go home in less than 24 hours after the same procedure.’

the pace of innovation in heart procedures. “Everything now is just smaller and more minimally invasive, even aneurysms (EVAR) and heart valves (TAVR) that we do are done by catheterization. And things are just going to keep moving that way,� he said. “The technology as a whole is changing, not every year but every month. It is beyond rewarding to see how patients used to be in the hospital for five to seven days now go home in less than 24 hours after the same procedure,� he said.

The scope of an interventional cardiologist’s work goes beyond a patient’s chest cavity.

Yoe and Towery also treat peripher-

Dr. Robert Yoe, above, and Dr. James Towery, below, are interventional cardiologists with Birmingham Heart Clinic.

Photos courtesy Birmingham Heart Clinic

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

HEALTH FOCUS | HEART

By Sarah Kuper

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

al artery disease. The condition affects men and women by narrowing arteries to the legs, stomach, head and arms.

This narrowing can cause leg pain or cramping, varicose veins, skin discoloration and sometimes ulcers on the legs. “Peripheral artery disease is commonly missed and likely affects up to 12 percent of the country,� Yoe said, “It can be treated conservatively at first with exercise and lifestyle changes, but then we can do a catheter procedure where we go in and take pictures and clean up the arteries.�

Another condition Yoe treats is venous reflux, in which the vein valves in the legs don’t work properly, causing the swelling and skin discoloration.

The solution to this problem can be as simple as wearing compression socks. Doctors can also perform a procedure called ablation that, again, can be done in an outpatient setting.

Changing Guidelines

Physicians at the Birmingham Heart Clinic stay in tune with new research developments and new ways of thinking and treating heart disease.

In November, for the first time in 15 years, the American Heart Association made a major change in its guidelines for classifying and treating high blood pressure.

High blood pressure for years has See HEART, page 15

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

HEART,

VALENTINE’S,

been defined as 140 and higher for the systolic measurement, or 90 or higher for the diastolic measurement.

Now, a reading of 130/80 is considered high.

According to the new guidelines, about 14 percent more people will be diagnosed with high blood pressure.

But Towery said only a few of those patients will be prescribed medication.

“The purpose is to identify it earlier and with lifestyle changes prevent cardiovascular conditions,” he said, “It is about conveying that sense of urgency to take care.”

Towery said he agrees with the guideline change even though it surprised him.

“The guidelines on this have been static for so long. I agree because it is intended to encourage early prevention – the things you learn in the fifth grade like regular exercise 30 minutes a day most days of the week,” he said.

Yoe and Towery agree that now is an exciting time for physicians who work with the heart. But they also agree on the importance of keeping one’s heart from getting into a condition for which their specialty is needed.

“You can do things like monitor salt intake and adhere to a Mediterranean-style diet,” Towery said.

And, he cautions, staying hearthealthy is good advice for everyone.

Towery said that while it may seem to some that men are more prone to serious heart issues, that isn’t the case.

“Women need to take this as seriously as men,” he said. “Women are high-risk too.”

The Birmingham Heart Clinic is made up of sixteen cardiologists in a variety of specialties at seven locations in the St. Vincent’s Health System.

The practice offers diagnostic tests, medication clinics and cath procedures and treatments.

For more information, visit birminghamheart.com. ❖

complimentary wine and beer provided by many of Birmingham’s finest restaurants, bakeries, caterers and beverage distributors. For questions contact 663-7930 x 8 or visit awrc.org.

From page 14

From page 13

Day. Packages include a 30 minute, outdoor ceremony performed by a licensed officiant, a keepsake bridal bouquet and boutonniere, professional photography and videography and a champagne toast. Reservations are first-come, first-served. For more information, call 933-1409 x 107 or visit visitvulcan.com.

BIRMINGHAM

Love for Literacy Regions Field Better Basics will host its 4th annual Valentine’s Day event from 6:30-10 p.m. in The Diamonds Direct ballroom.

Tickets are $75 and include dinner, drinks and dancing. Coctail party attire.

For more information, visit betterbasics. org.

Wed., Feb. 14 BIRMINGHAM

Casablanca Alabama Theatre There will be a sing-along with the Mighty Wurlitzer at 7 p.m., with the feature immediately following. A specialty cocktail just for Valentine’s Day will be available along with the usual selection of wine, beer, cocktails and Coca-Cola products.

Tickets are $8. For more information, visit alabamatheatre.com.

BIRMINGHAM

Woo at the Zoo Birmingham Zoo Sip and stroll through the Birmingham Zoo’s Predator Building from 6-9 p.m. and enjoy live music, animal encounters and keeper chats.

New this year will be a sampling of wines by Cat-N-Bird Winery.

Reservations also include hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine and a souvenir champagne flute and photo. Tickets must be purchased in advance adn guests must be ages 21+. For more information, visit birminghamzoo.com.

BIRMINGHAM

I Do With a View Vulcan Park and Museum Vulcan Park and Museum will host an opportunity for couples to marry or renew their vows on Valentine’s

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 15

Fri., Feb.16 BIRMINGHAM

The Science of Love McWane Science Center What is chemistry really? The center will host a Valentines Day edition of McWane After Dark from 7-11 p.m. focusing on the science of love. This event is exclusively for adults ages 21+.

For more information, visit mcwane.org.

Sat., Feb. 17 BIRMINGHAM

Share the Love Lyric Theatre Join piano sensation Jim Brickman as he shares the evening playing his popular love songs including “Love of My Life,” “The Gift,” and “Valentine” at 2 and 8 p.m. Doors open one hour before each performance. For more information, visit lyricbham.com. ❖

LEAP, From page 13

Park includes 20 miles of walking, hiking and biking trails, the new UAB Meadow Classroom and Remy’s Dog Park.

The cost of Red Mountain Park’s Lovers Leap 2018 adventure is $45 per person. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 913-7899 or by visiting the “Book Your Adventure” page on redmountainpark. org. For more information, check out Red Mountain Park’s page on Facebook.

Red Mountain Park is a 1,500-acre wooded nature park on the western side of Red Mountain in Jefferson County. ❖

THIS THANKSGIVING SURRENDER TO TEMPTATION THIS VALENTINE’S DAY. OR ELSE. We invite you and your special someone to join us for a romantic four-course dinner and an artful ambience that will lure you into temptation.

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2916 18th St S • Homewood • 871-490 1 savagesbakery.com

16 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

GIFT GUIDE

2018 OTMJ VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

perfect presents Treat yourself this Valentine’s to great skincare from NEOCUTIS, with savings on these products offered all month long.

Total Skin & Beauty, 933-0987.

Daniel Wellington Classic Melrose watch with a rose gold mesh band and black face, $179.

Steeds Jewelers, 822-9173.

XO Whale Cotton Sateen Weave lounge short set, $88.00 vineyard vines, 970-9758.

14k petite diamond cross with chain, 3/8” x 1/4”, $195.

John William Jeweller, 870-4367.

Sterling silver and 18k gold ruby doublet Konstantino pendant, $390.

Barton Clay, 871-7060.

Make Cookie Fix cookies at home with a mix, $14, shown with t-shirts, $16.

Cookie Fix, 582-2623.

Roberto Coin Diamonds by the Inch feature seven diamond stations with an 18”, 18k yellow gold chain, also available in white gold, $1,340.

Bromberg’s, 871-3276 or 969-1776.

This Valentine's Day, give her something that will last longer than flowers....

All you need is love, and this lovethemed 100% cotton tote bag by Funky Flowers, featuring stitched flowers, $19.99. Funky Flowers’ mission is to plant seeds of love through education, with a portion of sales funds college scholarships.

Alabama Goods, 803-3900.

Hand-embroidered guest towels and beverage napkins.

Christine’s on Canterbury, 871--8297.

Mention Over the Mountain Journal and receive $25 off on the gift of a cleaner and healthier home.

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14k rose gold and .25-carat diamond ring.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

GIFT GUIDE

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 17

Your wedding, Your Coffee style. tastes

Iconic iced cookies, cupcakes, cakes and Valentine’s gift bags, starting at $4.25.

Savage’s Bakery & Deli, 871-4901.

better with a Poodle!

Art Deco-inspired ruby and diamond ring in 18k white gold, Valentine’s Day special, $2,349.

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Silver and gold bracelets offered in assorted styles and designs.

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Local artist creates one-of-akind art pieces using vintage buttons and valentines, prices from $9 to $22.

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SOCIAL

18 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

D

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED ROAR Hosts Annual James Bond-Themed Gala

The Club.

The evening included live and silent auctions by Granger Thagard, a seated dinner, an acrobatic performance by Aerial Dance and music by the band Total Assets.

Up for bidding were a variety of restaurant and wine packages, artwork and jewelry. Big ticket items included vacation packages to Italy, a South African Safari, travel to a Bruno Mars concert in Las Vegas and a trip to Churchill Downs, along with a suite for 10 at the Kentucky Derby.

Funds raised through the evening’s festivities will benefit ROAR’s mission to support research at UAB’s Comprehensive Cancer Center and improve the quality of life for cancer patients.

The honoree was Jimmie Stephens, president of the Jefferson County Commission.

The event was organized by event co-chairmen Frank Barefield and Joey Moore; along with ROAR members including Daniél Callegan, president; Martha Thompson, first vice president; Julie Kim, second vice president; Debbie Corbett, recording secretary; Katila Farley, corresponding secretary; Yvonne J. Albaugh, treasurer; and Heather Feathers, financial secretary. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

r. Cure was the theme for the seventh annual James Bond Gala, hosted Jan. 27

by Radiation Oncology Accelerated Research at

From left, Debbie Corbett, Yvonne Albaugh, Commisioner Jimmie Stephens, Mona Stephens, Daniel Callegan, Julie Kim, Martha Thompson, Heather Feathers and Katila Farley.

Front, Olivia Sullivan. Back, Brittany Gillespie, Erin Albert and Peppi Barnett.

John and Katila Farley, Sharyn Gaston, Daniel and Trey Gallagen.

Rebecca and Virgel Furr.

Mike and Kim Hull.

Sara Kim with Robert and Julie Kim.

Photo special to the Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 19

SOCIAL

Tasting Trail

Mountain Brook Chamber Kicks off New Restaurant Trail Challenge To kick off the new year, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce invited a selection of ambassadors to help introduce the 2018 Mountain Brook Restaurant Challenge, which challenges community members to visit all participating restaurants in the city.

Though the challenge officially began Jan. 1, a kick-off party was held at Otey’s Tavern in Crestline Village on Jan. 18 to introduce the ambassadors who will help spread the word.

The challenge, issued by Mayor Stewart Welch, invites people to visit a growing list of 49 local restau-

The challenge, issued by Mayor Stewart Welch, invites people to visit a growing list of 49 local restaurants by Dec. 1. Document your experience with a picture posted on Instagram or Facebook, with the hashtag #i8mb.

rants by Dec. 1. Document your experience with a picture posted on Instagram or Facebook, with the hashtag #i8mb. Once you have completed the list, contact the chamber at chamber@mtnbrookchamber.org or call 871-3779.

Names of those who complete the trail will be entered into a drawing, and one winner will be selected in December. The grand prize currently totals more than $1,600 and includes a night at the Grand Bohemian with a cooking school experience, a Village Gold Card and gift certificates to many of the participating establishments. ❖

To: From: Date:

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20 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Cool for Cats

GBHS Auxiliary Hosts Annual Jazz Cat Ball

Masked guests couldn’t hide their amusement at the annual Jazz Cat Ball, hosted Feb. 3 by the Greater Birmingham Humane Society Auxiliary at the Sheraton Birmingham.

Serving as honorary chairs for the event were Roy Berger and Sharri Logsdon.

Attendees were welcomed to the Mardi Gras celebration with a cocktail hour and silent auction, which offered a wide variety of curated gift packages, artwork, jewelry, memora-

bilia and more.

A seated dinner and live auction followed, featuring big-ticket items including a guitar signed by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, a golf excursion to Ireland, wine tasting in Napa Valley and cooking with celebrity chef Julie Logue-Riordan. At the end of the evening, the ballroom was transformed into a casino floor with game tables as well as live music by The Big Beyond.

The event was organized under the leadership of Auxiliary President

Donna Hightower, ball chair Missy Ellis and co-chair Kelly Wesley.

Heading up the planning committees were Christy King, casino; Ramona Graffeo, corporate sponsors; Andi Berger and Donna O’Brien, decorations; Tricia Preston and Susan Norman, silent auction; Ashley McCollister, social media; and Bob and Jenny Alden, printing.

Funds raised will benefit the GBHS’ efforts to care for abandoned and abused animals and find them forever homes. ❖

1811 29th Ave. South I Downtown Homewood, 205.874.1044 I wallace-burke.com

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

A

ward-winning jewelry designer Patrick Conway is now part of everyday life at WallaceBurke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles in Homewood.

“Without a doubt, Patrick is truly one of the most gifted artist, craftsman and jewelry designers I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” said David Hezlep, co-owner of Wallace-Burke.

“Patrick has an uncanny ability when it comes to understanding what someone wants in his or her lifetime piece of jewelry. He calls it “unexpressed expectations” even when a client has difficulty in expressing their thoughts, Patrick gets it, creating original and timely “one of a kind” works of art,” said David.

Wallace-Burke provides the process of re-inventing old jewelry.

Many people have inherited family jewelry that just sits in a dark jewelry box, never seeing the light of day.

According to Patrick, “We can harvest the precious stones and create a unique and new piece of jewelry that still maintains the sentimentality of the family heirloom.”

Besides the design work, Wallace-Burke provides an in house full jewelry repair service as well.

From left, Meg Schneider, Sara Lavender Burkhalter and Katie Clifton.

Lindsay Ghee and Ashley Nail.

Hannah Grace and Joseph Longoria.

Jolene Hastings and Meleah Brock.

Shealy and Clayton McKinnon.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 21

SOCIAL

under the “stars” around a makeshift campfire while listening to a storyteller.

Funds raised through the event directly support the center’s statewide education programs and help make field trips affordable for students. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

annual fundraiser yet again infused scientific activities into the evening with a variety of projects for all ages. Guests made their own sidewalk chalk, seed balls and dirt batteries, along with other activities.

In addition, the younger guests could be found enjoying s’mores

From left, Paige McCauley, Reagan and Patricia Rutland and Andrea Sarapin.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES 2018 Beaker Bash Celebrates the Science of the Backyard

Wells Mason with Mason, Natalie and Tucker Wearren.

Clea Collins, Maria Levio, Mia Gioronda and Chloe Cook.

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 Joseph Braswell would be a privilege to serve you.

Emma Jayne and Nick Danella.

Bailey, Meredith, Callie and Travis Long.

McWane Science Center brought the outdoors in for its annual Beaker Bash fundraiser held Feb. 3.

This year’s theme, The Great Outdoors, celebrates the science of everything that can be found in your own backyard. It also pays homage to the center’s featured

exhibit, “Backyard Adventures,” which delves into the biology of plant life, insects, nocturnal animals and horticulture that can be found in the average backyard.

The evening’s festivities were coordinated by co-chairs Jess Mason and Erin Donohoo with a planning committee that included

Liz Bolen, Jennifer Conklin, Connor Cranford, Jacqueline DeMarco, Lauren DeMoss, Kimee Duck, Shelley Gentle, Eva Gonzalez, A.K. Hardeman, Lindsey Hendley, Leigh Hessler, Becky Holt, Meredith Husnik, Allie Imaghodor, Terre Jackson, Melanie Lewis, Shelli Morrow, Katrina Porter, Lora Retherford, Amy Richmond, Amanda Saint, Alison Schmidt and Kelley Winslett.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL

Photos special to the Journal

22 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

Lyric Junior Board members.

Let the Good Times Roll

Mardi Gras Masquerade Raises Funds for Alabama and Lyric Theaters

Featuring Partner Chefs: Chris Hastings • Fuller Goldsmith Bill Briand • Elizabeth Heiskell Rob McDaniel • James Boyce Ben Vaughn • Mauricio Papapietro Abhi • Leonardo Maurelli III

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Maurine Evans and Zach Palamara.

Ben and Christine Blass, Sarah Hix and Sean Cunliffe.

The third annual Lyric Masquerade Ball, organized and hosted by the junior board for the Alabama and Lyric theaters, celebrated the Mardi Gras season with the Matthew Devine Band playing New Orleans jazz music.

The theater stage became a dance JoyLeague61 1 12/9/17 and 1:32 PM floor during ad the2018_Layout Jan. 20 fundraiser

guests were free to peruse silent auction items. In addition, VIP guests were given tours of the venue with information about its historical background.

A wide selection of hors d’oeuvres were provided by local and regional restaurants and vendors, including Yo’ Page 1 Mama’s Restaurant, D’Armond

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Funds raised through the annual event will support the board’s mission to build awareness and support among younger adults for the preservation of the Alabama and Lyric theaters and the performing arts in Birmingham. ❖ Celia and Brant Beene.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Howard-Vaughn

Caroline Barnes Howard and Joseph Brinkley Vaughn were married Nov. 18 at the Country Club of Birmingham.

Bynum-Barrow

Mary Eugenia Bynum and Charles Andrew Barrow were married Aug. 19, 2017, at Château de Robernier in Montfort-sur-Argens, France. The ceremony was officiated by Mr. William Clark.

The bride is the daughter of Mr.

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 23

WEDDINGS The 6 p.m. ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Samuel Lee Williamson. A reception followed at the country club.

The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Carey Elton Howard of Birmingham and the late Mr. Howard. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Aubrey Elton Howard of Birmingham and the late Mr. Howard and the late Mr. and Mrs. David Boykin Patton of Eutaw.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Arthur Vaughn of Bluffton, South Carolina. He is the grandson of Mrs. Margaret Brinkley Gilbert of Atlanta and the late Mr. Eugene Tolly Brinkley of Atlanta and the late Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Francis Vaughn of Boston.

Given in marriage by her mother, the bride wore an ivory gown by Atlanta designer Anne Barge. The strapless bodice featured a sweetheart neckline. She also wore an off-the-shoulder,

ivory French Alencon lace bolero with covered buttons at the center back. The fit and flared skirt swept to a chapel length train. Her veil, also worn by her sisters, was chapel length and made of ivory illusion edged with coordinating Alencon lace.

The bride was attended by her sisters, Elizabeth Howard Yarbrough and Sarah Howard Crabb, as matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Sara Claire Martin Ballard, Allison Bates Farlow, Morgan Henry Gearhart, Helen Lawrence McDougald, Ann Evans Andrews Nix and Nancy Elizabeth

and Mrs. Stanley Dowe Bynum of Mountain Brook. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Julian Lee Mason Jr. of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Moore Bynum of Talladega.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew James Barrow of Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom. He the grandson of Mrs. Gerald Ernest Barrow and the late Mr. Barrow of Wheathampstead, and of Mrs. Philippa Mary Carter of Hawkshaw.

The bride was given in marriage by her father. Sallie Ann Hallmark served as maid of honor. Flower girls were Ann Margaret Nelson Bynum and Elizabeth Lucille Bynum, nieces of the bride.

Oliver James Peter Thring served as best man. Readers were James Alexander Mountstevens Holtum and Karim Morgan Nehdi.

After a honeymoon trip to Sicily, the couple lives in London.

Whatley, all of Birmingham; Kathleen Marlowe Galloway of Nashville; Brooking Pritchard Metz and Kirstin Teschner Stone of Atlanta; and Margaret McKinney Ratliff of Stamford, Connecticut.

The groom’s brother, Robert Arthur Vaughn Jr. of Bluffton, South Carolina, served as best man. Groomsmen were Samuel James Bennedict of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Justin Bolton of Nashville, Tennessee; Patrick David Clare of Milwaukie, Oregon; Matthew Edward Ehrenreich of Wildwood, Missouri; William Franklin Harris of

Birmingham; David Ryan Hennesey of Mooresville, North Carolina; Martin Paul Lewis of Marietta, Georgia; David Scott Stowers of Kennesaw, Georgia; Justin Thomas TerHaar of Delray Beach, Florida; and Simon Melles Ukbazghi of Chicago.

Readers were Natalie Summers King and Marguerite Gray Morris. Program attendants were Ellen Michele Dennis, Angela Kristine Link, Lauren Reynolds Malloch, and Kinley Christian Perno.

After a honeymoon trip to St. Lucia, the couple live in Birmingham.

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24 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

A Hero for Homewood PAGE 26 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

A World of Difference

FOODIE NEWS

Samford Class Gives Easy, Healthy Cooking a Global Flavor

Fuller Goldsmith

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Patricia Terry taught nutrition in Venezuela for more than a decade – and learned a few lessons herself along the way.

As a Southern Baptist missionary, Terry was a food and nutrition instructor for wives of seminary students.

“I came home and right away noticed how differently people ate here,” said Terry, who’s now a Samford University professor and food lab director in the college’s Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. “In Venezuela, you went to the market instead of the drive-through. And I saw the obesity problem here as well.”

Terry and other instructors who are dietitians and chefs are sharing the joys and benefits of healthy cooking and eating – with a global angle – in a new class presented by the Samford Wellness Kitchen. The inaugural class, called “Cook Simply, Eat Healthy, Live Well” includes hands-on cooking technique lessons and nutritional information.

Students in the seven-week series are learning not only to prepare a variety of recipes, but also that healthy cooking doesn’t have to be hard. They’re being taught to be at ease in the kitchen as well as being taught about key nutrients and how different ethnic cuisines can help prevent disease and lead to good health.

The current class already has begun, but Terry thinks more offerings of this type will follow.

“This is the first class for the Samford Wellness Kitchen,” Terry said. “We hope to offer other classes in the summer, fall and spring. Hopefully, it’s the start of a new curriculum in culinary medicine.”

The first two classes focused on building your plate and kitchen essentials. The next sessions explore Middle Eastern, Italian, Asian and Latin American cuisines.

Jessica Ivey, one of the instructors, is a dietitian at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Health and Wellness Center. After graduating from the University of North Carolina and completing a dietetic internship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, she went on to culinary school at Johnson & Wales University. She’ll share with students her knowledge of Middle Eastern cooking, which she came to appreciate while on a culinary tour in Turkey.

“We’ll make a black-eyed pea salad with collard greens and red lentil kofta, which are meatballs,” she said.

Other instructors are Andrea Kirkland, an editor and culinary expert; Jamie Vespa, a registered dietitian who’s an assistant nutrition editor at Cooking Light magazine; and Laura Zapalowski, a chef, food stylist, recipe developer and tester, and co-owner of Homewood Gourmet with her husband, Chris. Samford students help out, too.

Dietitians teach some of the classes, and Zapalowski handles the skills class.

“For the last class, Andrea will do healthier versions of traditional Southern favorites,” Ivey said.

The class is held in the former Southern Living/Cooking Light test kitchens; Samford’s College of Health Sciences is housed in the building that was once headquarters for the magazines.

“We have 16 students,” Terry said. “We had

TASTING AT TIME INC.: CHEFS, EDITORS TEAM UP FOR CHILDREN’S TABLE

“I came home and right away noticed how differently people ate here,” said Terry, (above right) who’s now a Samford University professor and food lab director in the college’s Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. “In Venezuela, you went to the market instead of the drive-through. And I saw the obesity problem here as well.”

Editors from Food & Wine, Cooking Light, Southern Living, Coastal Living and Time Inc. Books will join chefs from around the Southeast at Children’s Table.

The event is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. March 3 at the Time Inc. Food Studios, 4100 Old Montgomery Highway, Birmingham.

Children’s Table will raise funds and awareness for the nutritional needs of patients at Children’s of Alabama.

Guests can taste recipes at each test kitchen and go behind the scenes in the Time Inc. Food Studios. Partner chefs include Chris Hastings, Fuller Goldsmith, Bill Briand, Elizabeth Heiskell, Rob McDaniel, James Boyce, Ben Vaughn, Mauricio Papapietro, Abhi and Leonardo Maurelli III. For tickets and more information, visit thechildrenstable.org.

BIG BAD NEWS: POPULAR BREAKFAST SPOT OPENS IN HOMEWOOD

Big Bad Breakfast, the brainchild of James Beard award-winning chef John Currence, opened in Homewood Jan. 23.

The new eatery at 1926 29th Ave. is BBB’s second location in the Birmingham area. The first opened on U.S. 280 in 2014.

Big Bad Breakfast offers Alabama-raised meats, made-from-scratch biscuits with house-made jellies. It serves a custom-roasted Royal Cup Coffee blend. It serves lunch as well as breakfast and brunch foods.

The restaurant is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For more information, follow BBB on social media @bigbadbreakfasthomewood.

TABLE TALK: SYMPOSIUM FOCUSES ON FOOD STORIES

Students in the seven-week series are learning not only to prepare a variety of recipes, but also that healthy cooking doesn’t have to be hard. Above right, student Hayden Wald with instructors, Patricia Terry and Laura Zapalowski, from left, at a recent class.

to cap the class size due to the kitchen space.

Students work in four teams of four at different stations.”

After the cooking sessions, Terry shares information about the health benefits of the

ingredients they’ve used. The students gather in a classroom to eat what they’ve cooked.

“They talk about food, and there’s a lot of discussion,” Ivey said.

See SAMFORD, page 26

The Southern Foodways Alliance Winter Symposium: Narratives that Transform is set for Feb. 24 at WorkPlay, 500 23rd St. South in Birmingham.

The annual event is for food professionals, food writers and editors, and curious eaters. Among those participating in the event are CNN writer Moni Basu; David Hagedorn, a food writer and dining critic in the Washington, D.C., area; and Birmingham chefs Adam Evans, Dolester Miles and Becky Satterfield.

See FOODIE NEWS, page 27

Photo courtesy Children’s of Alabama

By Donna Cornelius

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 25

FOOD

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26 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

FOOD

A Hero for Homewood

SAMFORD, From page 24

Wil Drake’s Brioche Doughnuts Hit the Sweet Spot

In Search of Doughnuts

While Drake was on the road as a musician, he did some fun research.

“I’d seek out doughnut shops while I was traveling,” he said. “I was on a kick to find doughnuts all across the country.”

He said another reason for choosing to open a doughnut business was the pastry’s wide appeal.

“Doughnuts have been a trend, but they’re also something that’s always going to be around,” Drake said. “All ages like them. We try to do different flavor options, from simple pink sprinkles to pistachio, maple sea salt and lemon cardamom.”

Hero Doughnuts’ very first gig was a pop-up at Seasick Records in Birmingham’s Crestwood neighborhood. Drake and Wallis spread the word through social media and through NextDoor, a private social network for neighborhoods. Food writer Bob Carlton of AL.com helped with an article.

“I was heavily unprepared for our first and second pop-up,” Drake said. “I even made Jason get in there and help me.”

Drake said the partners’ goal from the beginning was a brick-and-mortar store.

“But I’m glad we did pop-ups,” he said. “I’d

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

By Donna Cornelius Looking for a sweet treat? You can’t go wrong holding out for a Hero – as in Hero Doughnuts.

After launching his brioche doughnuts at popups and at the Market at Pepper Place, chef Wil Drake now has a storefront in Homewood. Hero Doughnuts is at 3027 Central Ave., right behind Nabeel’s Café and Market. The store opened last year on Halloween.

You’ll know you’re in the right place if you see folks with their noses pressed against the store window – they’re watching the doughnuts being made – and if your own nose detects a tantalizing aroma every time the front door opens.

Hero Doughnuts are made with an emphasis on seasonal, local products – and with brioche dough.

Brioche is a French enriched yeast bread made with plenty of butter and eggs.

“I love fluffy, light doughnuts,” Drake said.

“Our doughnuts are yeasted and essentially fried bread.”

Yeast doughnuts are lighter and moister than cake doughnuts, which are, well, more like cake.

Both varieties have their proponents.

“We’re testing cake doughnuts and will do them eventually,” Drake said.

He and his original business partner, Jason Wallis, started Hero Doughnuts in 2016. Since then, they’ve been joined by two other partners: Nick Pihakis, founder of Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, and Paul Yeck.

Drake grew up in Georgia and came to Birmingham to attend Samford University. He majored in dietetics and nutrition but also was into music.

“I play the drums and for a while … toured, traveled and recorded,” he said. “But it was a tough life. I needed a change. I didn’t want to go back to school, and the only thing I loved as much as music was food.”

He worked at several restaurant jobs and then was ready to open his own business.

“I didn’t want a full-on restaurant; I wanted something more focused,” he said. “I’ve always loved doughnuts. Living in Georgia, we had a Krispy Kreme. My dad and I would go there and get either six or 12 doughnuts. We couldn’t always eat 12, but we’d give it our best shot.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

After launching his brioche doughnuts at pop-ups and at the Market at Pepper Place, chef Wil Drake, above, now has a storefront in Homewood. Hero Doughnuts is at 3027 Central Ave., right behind Nabeel’s Café and Market. The store opened last year on Halloween.

encourage anybody to do pop-ups first to test the market.”

The storefront became a reality when Drake discovered that Homewood Musical Instrument Co. had left its Central Avenue building and moved a few blocks away. The place needed some work to transform it into a bakery, including the installation of a kitchen.

Drake said he communicated the “general feel” he wanted for the place to interior designer Micah Yeck, Paul’s wife, who put his ideas into effect.

There’s an exposed ceiling in the eating area and concrete floors. Red grout perks up square white subway tiles.

“Our main goal was that we wanted to be visible at all times,” Drake said.

Thus, people inside the store – or peering in through the front window – can see dough being mixed in huge mixers, kneaded by hand and going through a commercial dough roller.

“We have a garage door that we can open in good weather,” Drake said. “Homewood Central Park is right across the street.”

On a recent fair-weather Saturday, Drake said, “People came in and bought food and took it to the park to eat it.”

Variety of Flavors

The pastry case at Hero Doughnuts has a tempting display of staple flavors such as vanilla glazed, chocolate glazed and Boston cream plus some seasonal offerings.

“Our goal is to always have a jam-filled doughnut that uses the fruits that are in season,” Drake said.

One unusual treat is the “Fro-Nut.” “A friend of mine up North who does pop-ups said, ‘Do frozen custard when you open,’” Drake

said. “We have homemade frozen vanilla bean custard. We take a doughnut that can be filled and make it to order. You can also get a cup of custard or a nitro coffee float. We have regular coffee, beer and wine, too.”

The menu includes breakfast sandwiches made with bacon and sausage from the FatBack Pig Project in Eva, a little town near Cullman.

“Our fresh breakfast sausage is sage-y and savory,” Drake said. “We make our own pepper jam and what we call ‘crack sauce,’ which is our house sauce. We make our own pickles, too.”

Also offered are hamburgers and chicken sandwiches.

“I love our burgers,” Drake said. “They have brioche buns, and you can get a fried egg on them.”

Brioche dough is used not only for buns, but also for fritters and doughnut holes called sidekicks.

The Homewood store serves locally roasted Domestique Coffee, which recently opened a new shop in Saturn Birmingham in Avondale.

“You can find our doughnuts there, but not every day,” Drake said.

Hero Doughnuts also are at Big Bad Breakfast on U.S. 280. They’ll be back at The Market at Pepper Place in April.

Several special treats are available this time of year, including a traditional Mardi Gras cake.

“We’ll have King Cakes up until Fat Tuesday, which is Feb. 13,” Drake said. “We need 48 hours’ notice for these.”

You’ll also see King Rings – doughnuts decorated in Mardi Gras colors – in the display case, and there will be special Valentine’s Day flavors this month.

Drake and his wife, Allison, are the parents of a daughter, 4-year-old Hadi, and son, Corgan Taylor, who’s 12. The family lives in Crestwood.

Drake said he has to rise and shine at about 3 a.m. every day so that his doughnuts can be made fresh. Popular flavors can disappear quickly from the display case. In fact, the store is open daily from 7 a.m. “until sold out,” according to the Hero Doughnuts website.

“The worst thing is to see little girls come in and want a pink sprinkles doughnut, and we’re out,” he said. “I guess that gets to me because I have a little girl, too.”

For more information, follow Hero Doughnuts on social media @herodoughnuts or visit herodoughnuts.com. ❖

The class includes men and women of different ages and skill levels.

“The students range from those who can barely cook to those who love to cook,” Terry said.

Terry and Ivey said medical professionals have a growing appreciation for the benefits of healthy eating and nutrition.

“In our practice, we’ve seen so many more doctors referring patients,” Ivey said. “We teach evidence-based science.”

Terry is the author of the book “Made for Paradise.”

“It’s about God’s original plan for healthy eating, physical activity and rest,” she said.

Terry advises those who want to cook and eat in a healthy way to “cook simply.” She said almost everyone can benefit from eating foods with lower salt and sugar levels and from eating healthy fats.

Ivey said she encourages people to do more cooking at home.

“Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated,” she said. “You watch Food Network, and the recipes can seem so complex. Also, find different foods that you enjoy. That gives you more options for your toolbox.”

Ivey also recommended learning different cooking techniques from other cultures, such as stir-frying, braising and sautéing.

“Learn how to do the methods,” she said. “A lot of people are more interested in cooking than in actually doing it.”

To find out more about cooking classes and other classes at Samford University’s Academy of the Arts, visit samford.edu/go/aota or call 726-2739.

Home Cooking:

Patricia Terry shared one of the recipes that her students are making. It’s simple, healthy – and tasty.

QUINOA SALAD WITH CHICKEN, EDAMAME AND GRAPES Makes 4 servings (about 1 2/3 cups)

INGREDIENTS:

2/3 cup uncooked quinoa ½ cup frozen shelled edamame 2 tablespoons orange juice 4 teaspoons olive oil 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar 1 ½ teaspoons honey ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 cups chopped baby spinach 1 1/3 cups chopped cooked chicken breast (5 ¾ ounces) 1/3 cup halved grapes (2 ounces) ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese 2 tablespoons chopped pecans INSTRUCTIONS:

Cook quinoa according to package directions.

Transfer to a large bowl and let cool.

Cook edamame according to package directions. Rinse with cold water; drain well.

While edamame cooks, combine orange juice, oil, vinegar, honey, salt and pepper in a jar with a tight-fitting lid; shake well to combine. Add edamame, spinach, chicken, grapes, green onions and feta cheese to quinoa. Pour orange juice mixture over salad and toss to coat. Sprinkle with pecans.

Nutrition (per serving): 300 calories, 13 g total fat, 3 g saturated fat, 21 g protein 28 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 280 mg sodium. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 27

FOOD

FOODIE NEWS, From page 24

Tickets are $150 and include food and drinks.

For tickets, a schedule of events and a full list of participants, visit southernfoodways.org.

The MortgageBanc Chili Cook-Off is set for 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 3 at Brookwood Village.

The cook-off, now in its 14th year, is the Exceptional Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser. Proceeds help fund social and recreational needs for mentally challenged people of all ages.

The event features all the chili you can eat, beverages, music and a kids’ zone.

Tickets are $10 for early bird general admission, $15 at the gate, and $20 for general admission that includes $25 worth of bonus eGift cards.

For tickets and more information, visit exceptionalfoundation.org.

WINE AND DINE: 10K EVENT FEATURES COOKBOOK AUTHOR

The Wine 10K Birmingham race includes an appearance from a New York Times bestselling cookbook author.

Elyse Kopecky, author of “Run Fast.

East Slow,” will be at a meet and greet at 6 p.m. March 2 at Vulcan Park and Museum, 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. The event includes a nutrition talk, cooking demonstration and recipe tastings, and each guest will receive a signed copy of the cookbook.

Kopecky also will be at the 10K on March 3 to preview recipes from her book.

Tickets to the meet and greet are $30. To buy tickets and for more information, visit wine10k.com

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

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To: From:

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

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

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

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

Photo courtesy Crestline Bagel

Thank you for your prompt attention.

BAGEL ROLLS: CRESTLINE BAGEL EXPANDS TO CAHABA HEIGHTS

Crestline Bagel Company has opened a new location on Crosshaven Drive in Cahaba Heights.

This is the second store for the company, which is locally owned and operated by Jennifer and Ralph Yarbrough. Their original store is on Church Street in Crestline, and the couple operates a catering company.

The bakery specializes in New Yorkstyle bagels as well as preparing food such as pastries, sandwiches, breakfast and dog treats.

A grand opening for the Cahaba Heights location was held Feb. 6 at the new store, at 4117 Crosshaven Drive. ❖

28 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

SCHOOLS

Why Can’t We Be Friends?

By Emily Williams

Identifying the Issues

One of the main struggles a child faces in school is interacting with peers, a cornerstone of which is navigating changing friendships and feelings of exclusion.

“The three most prevalent peer

All In Mountain Brook Conference to Discuss Peer Relationships

child is the gift of assertiveness,” Churnock said. “Not being passive, not being aggressive, but being assertive.”

It is equally important in these interactions that a child learns to feel comfortable talking to adults. In those more severe cases that require adult involvement, it helps if a child feels confident reaching out to their teachers, Kampakis said.

Most of all, it’s important for kids to have friends.

Kampakis believes that a child should strive to find one or two loyal

‘One of the greatest relational gifts I believe a parent can give a child is the gift of assertiveness.

Not being passive, not being aggressive, but being assertive.’

Photo special to the Journal

Though the modern-day king of fairy tales, Walt Disney has been quoted as saying, “You are not doing a child a favor by trying to shield him from reality.”

A reality that goes hand-in-hand with growing up and maturing in any educational system is the struggle to maintain healthy relationships with peers.

Because these struggles happen in school hallways and in private, it’s difficult for a parent to navigate their child through the social issues of friendship and peer conflict.

To help equip parents with the tools to help their children, a panel discussion, “How to Help Your Child Build Healthy Peer Relationships,” will be featured at the upcoming All In Mountain Brook Parenting Conference: Elementary Edition.

Advising parents on identifying their children’s issues with peers and helping them deal with those issues will be Laurie King, principal of Crestline Elementary; Kari Kampakis, Mountain Brook mother, blogger, speaker and author; Alice Churnock, a licensed counselor with Covenant Counseling Center; and Sharon Lyerly, ninth-grade counselor at MBJH.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ALICE CHURNOCK

Advising parents on identifying their children’s issues with peers and helping them deal with those issues will be Laurie King, principal of Crestline Elementary, above; Kari Kampakis, Mountain Brook mother, blogger, speaker and author; Alice Churnock, a licensed counselor with Covenant Counseling Center; and Sharon Lyerly, ninth-grade counselor at MBJH.

struggles are: how to forgive or apologize, how to empathize; feeling left out and how to navigate that skillfully; and being empowered to control attitudes or responses,” said King.

According to Kampakis, a child’s ability to deal with changing friend-

ships is made even more difficult in today’s society by the presence of social media, which provides a “highlight reel” of one’s life and can amplify feelings of insecurity and exclusion.

Not only do children have to recover from hurtful comments, whether intentional or not, heard in person or through the grapevine, they now also have to deal with what’s said on the internet.

“What every child is trying to figure out (is) who they are individually and as part of a group. Like adults, kids want to stay true to themselves and still be accepted,” said Kampakis.

Introverted children often struggle with feelings of exclusion that may not affect a more naturally social child. Churnock noted that feelings of invisibility and exclusion, when magnified by a young child’s lack of maturity and experience, can, in some cases, lead to depression. Her advice to avoid those feelings begins with a simple adage.

“Two’s company, three’s a crowd,” Churnock said. “My mom was notorious for saying that to me when I was a child, and, while it annoyed me at the time, there’s a lot of wisdom to it.”

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When it comes to conflicts with friends and peers, one of the main issues for a parent is figuring out when to get involved and when to not get involved.

“Technology makes it easy to jump the gun and send an angry text or phone call,” Kampakis said. “But if we pause first, we often come to a more rational response that will bring a better outcome.”

Panel members agreed that, while a parent’s first reaction may be to try to “fix” the situation when they see their child is being hurt, getting

involved in a conflict between children and their peers often makes matters worse. In addition, Kampakis added that dealing with conflict is an important learning experience for a child that teaches valuable skills in one-on-one conflict resolution, “dealing with difficult people and coping with hard emotions.”

For the seminar, the panel has drafted four guidelines for parents to follow when conflict occurs.

First, listen to your child. “Being a listener and asking the right questions leads to better solutions much of the time,” King said.

Second is to show no emotion.

“Take time to breathe, stay calm and look at the big picture,” Kampakis said.

Third, ask your child the right questions: What do you think you should do? Do you want my help?

Fourth, help your child brainstorm options for handling the situation.

Kampakis noted that she loves King’s question when students enter her office at Crestline: “If you were the principal, what would you do?”

The Friendship Game

In addition to finding a healthy way to help your child react to peer conflict, there are plenty of ways that a parent can prepare a child for issues with friends and other students.

According to King, having healthy discussions at home is a great way to help give a child the confidence to handle peer conflict on their own.

Discussion topics could be about empathy, friendship, kindness and conflict resolution.

Churnock added that parents should use discussions and role-playing to teach their kids how to be assertive and to politely stand up for themselves.

“One of the greatest relational gifts I believe a parent can give a

and loving friends, because having that support system can lessen the blow of other hurtful encounters.

“It also puts an ally in your child’s corner who might take up for them so they’re not alone,” she added.

Beyond the true friends, Churnock thinks it is important for a child to explore friendships with a variety of other kids. That way, they’ll be able to learn more about themselves through those friends that they connect best with and those that maybe aren’t such great friends.

“I tell my clients that friends are like giant boxes of Jelly Belly jelly beans,” she said. “We open the box and there are all kinds of beautiful colors, and when we taste one it may be delicious. We may taste the next one and immediately regret it, especially the crazy, booger-flavored ones!

But we needed to taste both flavors to know what we like and don’t like.”

All In

The All In Mountain Brook Parenting Conference: Elementary Edition is free to attend and will be held Feb. 13 at Crestline Elementary school from 5:30 p.m. until 7:55 p.m.

Following an opening presentation

by Mountain Brook Superintendent Dicky Barlow, parents can choose three 40-minute sessions to attend from among seven discussions that will be led by professionals in psychology, therapy, education and more.

In addition to the panel participants, session leaders include Dr. Elizabeth B.B. Lee, clinical psychologist with Ackerson and Associates; Dale Wisely, director of student services at Mountain Brook Schools; Jerry Hood, retired educator; Amanda Hood, principal of MBHS; the Rev. Rich Webster, Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church; Dr. Andrea Hicks, clinical psychologist; George Casey, executive director of Impact Family Counseling; and Cameron Cole, director of children, youth and family at the Cathedral Church of the Advent.

For registration and a full list of session topics, visit allinmountainbrook.org. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

Dr. Todd Freeman has been named the next superintendent of Vestavia Hills City Schools.

The city’s school board chose him unanimously to become the system’s seventh superintendent. The decision was announced Jan. 31.

Freeman is superintendent of Sylacauga City Schools in Talladega County, a position he has held since 2013. Before that, he spent 20 years as an educator, principal and districtlevel director in the Auburn school system.

“Vestavia Hills has been a great system for many years and has a strong, rich tradition of success. I look forward to working together with our schools and community to move us forward in that tradition,” Freeman said, in a released statement.

Freeman holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Valdosta State University, a master’s from Auburn University and a bachelor’s

Photo courtesy of Sylacauga City Schools

Vestavia Hills Board of Education Names Freeman New Superintendent

Dr. Todd Freeman is superintendent of Sylacauga City Schools in Talladega County, a position he has held since 2013. Before that, he spent 20 years as an educator, principal and district-level director in the Auburn school system.

from Jacksonville State University.

“It was important to the board

members and me that we carry out this lengthy and detailed process because we know just how important this position is to the success of our schools and city,” board President Nancy Corona stated in an email to the school community.

“Ultimately, we selected Dr. Freeman because we believe he possesses a combination of professional skills and personal character that we need from the leader of this school system.”

After a hiring process that began in October, board officials noted that Freeman was chosen from a field of 32 applicants following public interviews with the Board of Education, site visits to each candidate’s current and former schools, reference and background checks and written feedback from teachers, students and administrators who met with the candidates.

—Emily Williams

It recently was announced that Louis Pizitz Middle School music teacher Kim Bain is the recipient of the Lacey Powell Outstanding Music Educator Award from the Alabama Music Educators Association.

Bain received the award Jan. 19 at the organization’s annual state conference, held in Birmingham.

Each year the award is given to an Alabama K-12 or collegiate music teacher who shows a special dedication to music education, according to a release.

“Considering how many deserving music educators there are just in our school system alone makes this award truly special to me. There is nowhere else I’d rather be,” Bain said.

Bain has been an educator for 28 years and has taught at Pizitz for 12 years as the director of bands and, in her free time, is a freelance musician in the Birmingham area. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music education from the University of Alabama and a master’s in saxophone performance from Bowling Green University.

Her recognitions include being named 2012 VCS Teacher of the Year and earning the Phi Beta Mu, Rho Chapter’s Oustanding Bandmaster award in 2014.

Under her leadership, the band earned the 2013 John Phillip Sousa Foundation’s Sudler Cup and the National Band Association’s Blue Ribbon Award of Excellence in 2015.

Photo special to the Journal

Pizitz’s Kim Bain named Alabama Outstanding Music Educator

The school’s symphonic and concert bands have performed at the 2013 Music For All National Middle School Music Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana; the 2014 CBDNA/ NBA Southern Division Conference at the University of North Florida; the 2014 Southeastern United States Middle School Clinic at Troy University; and the 69th Midwest Clinic in 2015 in Chicago; and they have earned special recognition at Festival Disney, Orlandofest Music Festival and the Heritage Music Festival in St. Louis, Missouri.

Bains is a member of the National Association for Music Education, Alabama Music Educators Association, Alabama Bandmasters Association, National Band Association and Phi Beta Mu.

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 29

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Spartanettes Take First Place in Dance Competition

The Mountain Brook Junior High School Spartanettes dance team took first place in high kick and pom routines at the Magic City Dance Championship recently along with snagging the Best Crowd Appeal Award. Members of the team are, front row, from left: Carson Horn, Caitlyn Burrus, Emma Williams, Anne Smith, Sara Allen Brown, Ella Frances Mandell, Kathleen Webb, Ann Woodke and Marechal Sledge. Back: sponsor Debbie Stump, Maddie Ross, Kennedy Stewart, Ashley Pitts, Catherine Guilsher, Sarah Simon, Caroline Bates, Caroline Hellums, Sarah Welles Edwards, Frances Vandevelde, Mary Chandler Robinett, Mary Mac Coppedge, Molly Keller, Fagan Leitner, Hannah Halpern, Addison Wint, Camille Gillum and sponsor Lisa Lewis.

30 • Thursday, February 8, 2018

Patriots’ Padgett Wants to Walk in Dad’s Footsteps

Logan Padgett spends as much time with his dad as he can.

That’s because Homewood’s 6-foot-6-inch junior forward wants to follow in his dad, Scott Padgett’s, footsteps and become a college basketball player.

Scott Padgett played college basketball at Kentucky from 1995 to ‘99, helping the Wildcats win the 1998 NCAA championship. He was a firstround draft pick, selected 28th overall by the Utah Jazz, in 1999 and spent eight years in the NBA. He’s in his fourth season as head coach at Samford.

“Every summer I’m up at Samford at the gym working on my game,” Logan Padgett said. “After every game I play, my dad will say good game, and then give me a critique about what I can do better. I don’t mind because he’s just pushing me to get better. Plus, he’s been where I want to be, so he understands what it takes to get there.”

This season, Padgett has emerged as Homewood’s go-to player. He leads the Patriots in scoring, with 17 points per game, and rebounding, with 9 rebounds per game.

Homewood finished the regular season with a 14-14 overall record and in a three-way tie for second

place in Class 6A, Area 10. In the tiebreaking procedure, the Patriots received the No. 2 seed for the area tournament this week and are scheduled to play Shades Valley at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at Parker, the tournament host and No. 1 seed.

Coming into the season, Padgett knew he would have to lead the team because the Patriots’ top two players had moved on. Center Trey Jemison, a Clemson signee, transferred to Hoover for his senior season and forward Luke Touliatos graduated and now plays for Padgett’s dad at Samford.

“I knew with Trey and Luke leaving, somebody had to fill that role,” Padgett said. “It’s something me and coach (Tim) Shepler talked about. He told me it was my turn to become the team leader.”

Shepler said Padgett has embraced the role, stepping up his game to give the Patriots what they need.

“He’s come a long way this year,” Shepler said. “He was on our state championship team as a freshman and has been progressing since then, but this is the first year for him to really understand his game and his skills.

“He’s got a much higher ceiling as player. A couple of skills we’re working on are his 3-point shooting ability and his ball-handling. He has the ability to be a better shooter from behind

the arc if he puts in the time. He’s a good ball-handler, but he can get better.

“He’s jumps well — he’s had some rim-rattling dunks — but I want him to become more of a complete player.”

Padgett understands and is working to improve his game. At the start of practice and after practice, he and teammates try to attempt at least 50 3-pointers in a minute. On Saturdays when the Patriots don’t have a game and on Sundays, he goes over to Samford to practice 3-pointers.

“I’m good at driving the ball, but if I become a more consistent 3-point shooter, I can do even more,” Padgett said. “And ball-handling is crucial. I see how important it is to take care of the basketball when I go see Samford play.”

That’s why Padgett’s dad keeps urging him to get stronger and add some weight.

“He’s been wanting me to get up to 200 pounds since my sophomore year, but I’m still only at 190,” Logan Padgett said with a laugh.

Logan Padgett realizes that gaining some more muscle will enhance his ability to play at the next level. He said he has not gotten serious about recruiting yet, but he will start taking it more earnestly once he starts playing AAU ball this summer.

He already has given up football.

He played wide receiver for the Patriots during the 2016 season but elected not to play in 2017.

“My true love has always been basketball, so now is the time for me to focus and lock in on it,” he said. ❖

This season, Padgett has emerged as Homewood’s go-to player. He leads the Patriots in scoring, with 17 points per game, and rebounding, with 9 rebounds per game.

Journal photo by Mark Almond

By Rubin E. Grant

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPORTS

Briarwood Girls Basketball Coach Scores 500th Victory

By Blake Ells

On Jan. 22, Briarwood girls basketball coach Jim Brown notched his 500th career victory. All of those came at Briarwood Christian School, and most came while leading the girls program. But he did have a brief stint on the boys side. That career began in 1982.

“I worked with the (boys) freshman team and had a couple of years with the junior varsity,” Brown said. “Then I coached the varsity team for six years; about 11 total years on the boys’ side.

They made it known that they were going to make a change on the girls’ side and asked me if I was interested, so I took it. This is my 25th year with the girls’ team.”

He never had any interest in returning to coach the boys’ team.

“I didn’t have too many (wins)] on the boys’ side,” Brown joked. “It was a little bit tougher where we were back then; 67 of those 500 were boys’ varsity wins, 433 were girls. When I went over, I wasn’t coaching ‘girls,’ I was coaching basketball. I coached them the same way we did on the boys’ side.”

Briarwood remained at the 3A level throughout the ‘90s, then made a dramatic jump to 5A at the turn of the millennium. The Lions had made the state semifinals twice before the move and had built a lot of momentum in the program. But under Brown’s leadership, the transition went smoothly.

“The 5A schools were putting more resources into it,” said Brown. “The athletes were better.

They had more of them. I’m very proud of the fact that when we made that jump, we continued to be competitive.”

Repeat Run Journal photo by Mark Almond

Mountain Brook’s Berman Steps Up as Basketball Team Prepares for Tournament

By Blake Ells

Lior Berman is Mountain Brook’s best 3-point shooter, averaging 45 percent beyond the arc.

Top-ranked Mountain Brook is ready to host the 7A Area 6 basketball tournament in what is the next step for a return trip to the Legacy Arena at the BJCC for the state tournament later this month.

It seems the coaches at Briarwood never leave.

“I’ve never wanted to be anywhere else,” Brown, a Birmingham native, said. “I love teaching there. I’ve loved the opportunity to coach there. As a Christian school, not only did I have a chance every day to work with great Christian friends, but I’ve also had the opportunity to stop and pray if we wanted to stop and pray. If we had a family in crisis, we could stop and pray for that family. It’s a neat situation when you can practice your faith at the same place that you work.”

After 500 wins as a high school coach, Brown says his proudest achievement is the relationships that he’s built and maintained throughout his career.

“I still have players that – even though they’ve graduated or gotten married or gone on – I still have contact with,” Brown said. “That’s a blessing.

A possible rematch with Huffman looms, but the team enters post-season play confident as it defeated the Vikings twice in the regular season in two close contests, a 67-63 win at home and a 58-56 victory at Huffman.

“We’ve really come together as a team as we approach the end of the season and begun performing well together,” said junior Lior Berman.

It’s a Spartans squad that’s relatively young; juniors Berman and Trendon Watford have offered the most offensive firepower to complement seniors Sean Elmore and Britton Johnson. Berman saw some action off the bench as a sophomore a year ago, and he’s now grown into a much big-

(Recently) a player that was one of our stars on that ‘96-’97 team showed up at our game.

She’s a doctor now; has a 10-year-old son.

That’s the fun part, seeing those players find their own way and have their own family.”

Now, he’s beginning to see children of those players come through his program. But that’s not yet made him feel old enough to consider retirement.

“I think 2005 was the first time I had a student that was the child of a student I had coached before,” he laughed. “And since that time, there have been a bunch of them cycling through. Now when the first grandchild comes through, I’m probably out of there.”

The Lions now turn their attention to the area tournament. They’ll host it beginning Feb. 9. ❖

ger role.

“I wasn’t quite the scorer that I have become this year,” Berman said.

“I was much better defensively.”

He’s fourth on the team in scoring, averaging 56 percent from the field and 8.8 points per game, and he’s the team’s best 3-point shooter, averaging 45 percent beyond the arc. Watford is scoring 23.2 a game and grabbing 12.6 boards. Elmore is adding 10.1 points per game and Johnson is averaging 9.1 points per game. It’s a team that has distributed the ball well, and that’s largely because of sophomore point guard Paulie Stramaglia, who is averaging 6.2 assists per contest.

“We’ve got some small things to work on, but I feel like we will get

them fixed in these last two regular season games and we’ll be ready,” said Berman.

To repeat as state champions, Mountain Brook likely would have to navigate a path through the Vikings and Hoover, currently ranked second in the state. But they’re also familiar with the Bucs, which they defeated 59-50 in January.

“I’m a little less nervous going into this year because I’ve been in this spot before,” said Berman.

The area tournament begins Feb. 8 at Mountain Brook. Huffman takes on Oak Mountain at 6 p.m. followed by Mountain Brook and Spain Park. The winners will face off Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 8, 2018 • 31

SPORTS

Rehab Reality...

HOMEWOOD

by Judy Butler

ball and became an exclusive track athlete her sophomore year, following in the footsteps of her older sister Elysa.

Elysa, a three-time individual state champion when she was at Homewood, is now a sophomore on the University of South Alabama track and field team.

Jasmine Griffin also will run track in college. She has signed with Southern Miss.

“I picked Southern Miss because they are kind of like our team,” she said. “Their team is like a family and doesn’t have any drama. Plus, I didn’t want to go to the same school as my sister.”

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

From page 32

Griffin, above, was at her competitive best last weekend in the 49th AHSAA State Indoor Championships at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Homewood’s Laney Helms, right, crossed the finish line at 5:21.49 to win 1,600-meter race as the Patriots claimed their fifth consecutive 6A state championship. More photos at otmjsports.com.

Griffin probably isn’t the only girl on the Homewood track team who will compete at the next level.

Sophomore distance runner Lainey Phelps continues to shine. She did the 1,600-meter run in 5:12.49, and the 3,200 in 11:11.20, just ahead of teammate Celie Jackson, who finished second. Phelps finished second to Pelham’s Katie Strozier in the 800 with a time of 2:17.47.

The Patriots’ Aiya Finch won the triple jump with a leap of 37-03.75 and the long jump with a leap of 17-02.50. Alex Brooks cleared 10 feet to win the pole vault. Homewood’s 4-x-800 relay team finished first with a time of 9:49.08.

On the boys side, Will Stone clocked 9:37.03 to win the 3,200meter run and won the 1,600 with a time of 4:24.39.

Logan Justice edged Helena’s Blake Vaughn by a nose, winning the 800-meter race with a 2:02.62 time.

Vaughn clocked 2:02.71.

The Patriots’ Eli Brooks won the pole vault, clearing 13-03.

Homewood’s 4-x-800 relay team finished first with a time of 8:30.07 time. ❖

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Competitive Team

REBEL RECORDS Vestavia’s Carl Nesbitt, above, set a meet record with a jump of 6-8. James Sweeney followed up Friday’s 7A state-record performance in the 3,200 meters, right, with a win in the 1,600 meters Saturday. His winning time was 4:23.56, just under a second better than runner-up Charlie Slaughter of Mountain Brook (4:24.33). Vestavia Hills finished second in the meet with 62.50 points. More photos at otmjsports.com

Hoover pole vaulter James Courson also won a state title, clearing 16 feet, 1 inch. Courson attempted to clear 16-05 and set the AHSAA alltime indoor record, but he came up just short. He cleared 15-00, 15-06 and his winning height without a miss.

The Bucs’ Hakim Ruffin won the

HOOVER, James had Smith compete in the arduous triple jump and he took to it right away.

“Nobody wanted to do it,” Smith said. “Coach James showed me how to do it and some other coaches tweaked what I was doing and I became a technique guy. Now, I feel like it’s my baby since I’ve been doing it so long.”

As a sophomore in the 2017 state indoor meet, Smith finished fourth behind three seniors, Noah Igbinoghene of Hewitt-Trussville, Daryl Bowden of Sparkman and Treymarius Roberson of McGillToolen Catholic.

Hoover coach Hind described Smith as energetic and a hard worker, but what makes him a standout in the triple jump is his athleticism.

“He’s an all-around good athlete,” Hind said. “You have to be a good athlete to do the triple jump.

“He loves this sport and that makes a difference. He works hard at it, even in the off season.”

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

From page 32

60-meter dash with a 6.91 time.

Teammate R.J. Nelson was second at 6.98.

The Hoover boys won the 4x400 relay in 3:24.01 and finished second (8:02.94) to Smiths Station (7:58.51) in the 4x800.

On the girls side, the Bucs’

Kyle Smith won his specialty event, the Class 7A triple jump, Saturday with a leap of 45-07 feet. More photos at otmjsports.com

Genesis Jones set a new Class 7A state indoor record in the high jump with a winning jump of 5-06. Julie Leonard of Mountain Brook originally set the record at 5-04 in 2015.

MichelleI Nkoudou won the 60-meter hurdles, clocking 8.81, and teammate Chakiya Plummer was second at 8.91.

Sydney Steely won the 800-meter run with a time of 2:13.93 in the 800meter race and finished second (5:03.97) in the 1,600-meter race behind Thompson’s McKenzie Hogue (5:03.81).

The Bucs dominated the relays, turning in two record-breaking performances. On Friday, Hoover narrowly won the 4-x-200 by just 4/100ths of a second over runner-up James Clemens. The Bucs clocked 1:43.12 and the Jets 1:43.16.

Then, on Saturday, the Bucs set the state and CrossPlex record in the 4-x800 with a winning time of 9:19.70. The Bucs held the record coming in thanks to its 9:26.76 finish in 2016. They also set a new record in the 4x400, clocking 3:55.24 to close the meet. ❖

Who is the Victim of Addiction?

Answer: It’s the person with the addiction and those who love him or her. No one chooses this as a path for life.

It happens. Most of the time it’s by accident, from innocent acts of trying to be accepted, low self-esteem, life issues, or poor choices.

Regardless of how it started the first victim, in my opinion, is the person who tried to deal with these problems and ended up with an addiction. The next victims are the parents or loved ones who see it happening and are at a loss of what to do.

I’ve been to Al Anon meetings where I‘ve heard the ‘victim’ talks as well as the “tough love”. Been there! Done that! Not my song!

I only had one child to lose – and I was never prepared for that to happen. Unfortunately I lost him anyway, but thank God it wasn’t to the demons that haunted him for so many years.

Back to the Victim thought!

We’re all victims. It starts with our child or loved one not being the best they can be… possibly having life issues that created situations that required ‘selfmedication’.

Some of these things we’ll never know. We do know that proper counseling and a safe environment to help them find the self-worth they haven’t had in years is the best path to recovery. The true victims are those who want a better life and don’t find it in the big box rehabs. Bayshore Retreat is different and can make a difference.

That’s why Bayshore Retreat was created. Jeff’s experiences... Jeff’s dream of helping others... now a mother’s goal.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2018

SPORTS

Patriots’ Padgett Wants to Walk in Dad’s Footsteps PAGE 30 Spartans Set to Host Area Tournament PAGE 30

Patriots, Bucs Sweep AHSAA State Indoor Track Championships Griffin Comes Up Big Again for Homewood In Class 6A Competition

Kyle Smith Helps Bucs Sweep State Indoor Championships

By Rubin E. Grant

By Rubin E. Grant

The bigger the meet, the better Homewood senior Jasmine Griffin performs.

“She’s competitive,” Homewood track and field coach Tom Esslinger said. “She has a killer instinct. When she steps to the line, she’s going to put everything in it, especially in big meets.”

Griffin was at her competitive best last weekend in the 49th AHSAA State Indoor Championships at the Birmingham CrossPlex.

She claimed titles in three events, winning the 60-meter dash with 7.62 seconds, the 60-meter hurdles with 8.95 seconds, and the 400-meters with 57.47. She also was part of the Homewood’s 4-x-200 relay team that finished first with a winning time of 1:43.56.

“Competing has always been my thing,” Griffin said. “The more competition I have helps me run better.

And I like winning.”

Griffin’s superlative performance helped the Homewood girls run away with the Class 6A state title. The Patriots totaled 167.50 points to set a new AHSAA all-time indoor team scoring record while winning their fifth consecutive championship.

Pelham was a distance second with 72.50 points and Paul Bryant finished third with 65.

Homewood’s boys also won the Class 6A title, scoring 103.50 points to finish well ahead of runner-up Opelika, which had 56.

“I couldn’t be more excited,” Esslinger said. “There were so many highlights. The girls did a great job across the board and the boys stepped up when they needed to. This was really more than I could have ever imagined.”

Of course, Esslinger expected Griffin to be at the forefront, considering she won three events — the 100-meter dash, 300-meter hurdles and 400-meter run — along with a relay in the state outdoor meet last May. “She’s got crazy athletic ability,” Esslinger said. “But things haven’t always come easy for her. She struggled in the eighth, ninth and even 10th grades. The evolution of where she started from and where she is now has been fun to watch.”

Griffin remembers those early struggles. “I was a little shaky,” she said.

She also played basketball then and the extra sport took a toll on her right knee, leading to surgery her freshman year. She dropped basket-

On the eve of the 49th AHSAA Indoor State Championships at the Birmingham CrossPlex, Hoover junior Kyle Smith spent part of the evening praying and, as he put it, “getting my mind focused.”

Smith’s time in prayer and meditation was well spent.

He won his specialty event, the Class 7A triple jump, Saturday with a leap of 45-07 feet, easily outdistancing his teammate John Watkins, who jumped 43-05.75.

“I was hoping for a 47- or 48-foot jump, but I couldn’t expect that not getting in as much work before the meet than I wanted,” Smith said. “But this being my first individual state championship, I’m so happy. It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time.”

On Friday, Smith finished second in the high jump, with a leap of 6-6, two inches behind Vestavia Hill’s Carl Nesbitt, who set a meet record with a jump of 6-8.

Smith’s performance helped coach Devin Hind’s Hoover boys win their second consecutive Class 7A title and the school’s eighth boys’ title overall.

Hoover scored 135 points and runnerup Vestavia Hills was second with 62.50.

Hoover completed a sweep of the competition when the Bucs’ girls totaled 113 points to win the state title for the fifth consecutive year and for the sixth time in the past seven years.

Hoover has won all four Class 7A titles. McGill-Toolen Catholic finished second with 78 points and James Clemens was third with 74.

“It’s quite an accomplishment,” Hind said of winning both titles. “We had our work cut out for us. Just like every other group, they know how to win.”

Smith now fits into that category despite being a jumper for only four years. He began in the eighth grade after having some disciplinary problems at Bumpus Middle School that landed him in alternative school for a few weeks.

“Before that, I didn’t do sports,” Smith explained. “I had good grades, but I’m ADHD and I struggled with behavior problems. I would finish my class work before my classmates, then I’d start acting up and I got sent to alternative school.

“I feel God blessed me by taking me through that. After I went back to Bumpus, they moved me to a new hallway. My science teacher, Chad James, asked me to come out for track and I did.”

See HOMEWOOD, page 31

The Patriot girls totaled 167.50 points to set a new AHSAA all-time indoor team scoring record.

Homewood’s boys won the Class 6A title, scoring 103.50 points.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Hoover girls totaled 113 points to win the state title for the fifth consecutive year.

Hoover boys won their second consecutive Class 7A title and the school’s eighth boys’ title overall.

See HOOVER, page 31