3.23.17

OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

SOCIAL

SPORTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Back in the Saddle

Joy O’Neal is the founder and executive director of The Red Barn, a therapeutic equine riding center in Leeds. A self-proclaimed “barn mom,” O’Neal is using her years of experience being at the barn with her five children to drive her passion. The facility offers weekly private or small group classes for children with physical, cognitive or emotional disabilities and even children dealing with grief or other special circumstances. See story, page 8.

INSIDE

STEPPING DOWN BMA Director Retiring After 20 Years in the Job. PAGE 10

WORLDS AWAY Long-Time BMA Patron Revisits Collection and Reconnects with Curator.

PAGE 14

A TAILBACK LOOKS AT 50 Ex-Tide Star Humphrey Is a Community Pillar.

PAGE 28

2 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

MURPHY’S LAW Journal photo by Jordan Wald

S Tom Miller, executive director of the TumTum Tree Foundation, far left, presents a check to representatives from Mitchell’s Place.

Tum Tum Terrific

The TumTum Tree Foundation, a Birmingham-based nonprofit organization supporting Alabama’s children, presented $375,000 in donations to nine charities at Children’s of Alabama on March 16.

This year, the beneficiaries of the donations were: Magic Moments, Kid One Transport, Mitchell’s Place, The Red Barn, UAB’s Institute for Arts in Medicine, Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center, Angel Pillowcases, UAB Department of Neurology and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, for fellowships to research childhood cancer.

The donated funds were raised through the foundation’s 27th annual Charity Wine Auction Weekend, held Nov. 3-5, 2016.

“We are very proud of and grateful to the Birmingham community for another successful weekend event benefitting Alabama’s children,” said Tom Miller, executive director of the TumTum Tree Foundation. “We started this event in 1990 with a dream and it has turned into the longestrunning charity wine auction in the United States with a focus on children’s charities.

“Since its inception, the foundation has donated nearly $11 million to children’s charities, and these results are a true team effort among the many volunteers, supporters, sponsors, local restaurants and acclaimed wineries that continue to come together in support of the children of Alabama.” ❖

IN THIS ISSUE ABOUT TOWN 4 PEOPLE 6 NEWS 10 LIFE 14 SOCIAL 20

WEDDINGS 27 BUSINESS 28 TRAVEL 30 SCHOOLS 32 SPORTS 36

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

March 23, 2017 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Sarah Kuper, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Jordan Wald, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Intern: Annie Howard Vol. 27, No. 15

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.

Driving Thru Life

tially used gas cards, a roll of quarters, elling a car is like saying goodtwo bottles of hand sanitizer and one bye to an old friend. Granted, of those gizmos that can cut through some cars haven’t been very the seat belt strap or break the window good friends – gas guzzling, sticky should the car careen off a bridge into transmissions, a tendency to pull left the water below. The only thing I left into oncoming traffic – but our car had was the owner’s manual, a large, been exemplary, taking us back and unwieldy book that apparently was forth across the country in carefree written with no thought that anyone comfort. It had seen nine states and would actually use it. outlived three sets of luggage. It had That was the stuff I knew been a trooper. Still, it was time for our old friend to move on. about. The real eye opener came when We made the call, hammered out a I cleaned out the back seat pockets, the price and retrieved the title from the place accessible only to my grandchildren. I found two wadded up coloring safety deposit box. The only thing left pages from sit-down restaurants and was to clear out our personal effects.

Sue Murphy counted myself lucky the kids had not This was no small task. Like I said, thrown in the crayons, which most we’d done a lot of living in that certainly would have fused the car. Through all those miles, we’d Through all those miles, pocket shut in the summertime shared doughnuts and French fries, solved all the world’s problems and were broken Happy we’d shared doughnuts heat. There sung along with our entire collecMeal toys, a Chuck E. Cheese lizard tion of Beatles albums. and French fries, solved that cost us 150 points and one Over the years, we had equipped Guppies sock we had given all the world’s problems Bubble our baby with all of our car trip up on six months ago. Under the seats, I found coupons from a store essentials. In the center seat conand sung along with no longer existed and a sole, I kept a full box of tissues, a our entire collection of that Starbucks card that I figured I’d lost notebook, a pen (Why didn’t we write those world problem solutions at the mall. Below that, it was a sea Beatles albums. down?), and a fistful of lens wipes of stray Goldfish crackers and to clean Harold’s glasses when the Teddy Grahams. Everything, even smudges made him twitchy. Harold the sock, went in the trash. also required Lifesavers and toothpicks and a phone From the trunk, I took out my emergency water, charger that plugged into the old cigarette lighter. I emergency first aid kit and emergency space blanket, wanted gum and a package of peanut butter crackers in thankful that we never had to use them. The spare tire case I became woozy before the rest stop. I gathered never saw the light of day either, but I assume it’s still in there somewhere. everything into a car-transfer box.

In the door side pockets, there were napkins and And that was it. So, goodbye faithful friend. I wish straws, a baggie of coupons (some still unexpired), and you and your new owner many happy travels. If we a paper map for those times when MapQuest hadn’t fig- cross paths in the grocery store parking lot, I may absent-mindedly try the handle a time or two, but when ured in a construction detour.

I realize there’s not a Beatles CD on the console, I’ll The glove compartment held no gloves, but there were my nifty car insurance/registration folder, two par- remember that we’ve both moved on. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS March 30 is National Take a Walk in the Park Day ...

What’s your favorite local park?

“The Botanical Gardens.

There’s nothing to not like.”

Anne Moore Baldwin and Kathryn Kirtley Mountain Brook

“Homewood Central Park it’s clean and good for young babies.”

Melanie Maenza, with her son Homewood “I like to walk my dog at Homewood Park where there are lots of people and kids.”

Caroline Clark Mountain Brook “Jemison Trail Park.

We like walking along the creek.”

Ann Sweeney, with Rhett Kirtley Mountain Brook

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 3

4 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

fundraiser 5k will kick-off at 8 a.m. Proceeds will benefit the organizations SPRING BREAK efforts to support FUN GUIDE! vulnerable children PAGE 30 in Uganda, East Africa. Race entry is $35 in advance and $40 on race-day.

For more information, visit sozochildren. org.

MARCH 23-APRIL 5

Still looking for something to do next week?

Check out our

Thurs., March 23 BIRMINGHAM

Party Like It’s 1969 The Pizitz Building Birmingham Association of Realtors invites guests to dress up in mod attire for its annual auction-fundraiser event from 6-10 p.m. All proceeds from the silent and live auctions will benefit REALTORS and are used for political and advocacy purposes. Registration is $35. For more information, visit “Party Like it’s 1969 RPCA Auction” Facebook page.

BIRMINGHAM

Alabama Asian Cultures & Food Festival Zamora Shrine Temple This year’s Festival Opening Ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a dragon dance performance by the Confucius Institute at Auburn University at Montgomery. Festivities will include performances by a variety of cultural performances, Asian food, presentations, a photographic exhibition, vendor booths and more.

Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for teens. For more information, visit alabamaasiancultures.org.

VESTAVIA HILLS

Reverend Thomas M. Kelly Library in the Forest The library will host a performance

by Reverend Thomas M. Kelly of the St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, who plays the harp despite being legally deaf. The performance will be held from 10 -11:30 a.m. For more information visit vestavialibrary.org.

March 24 and 26

Sat., April 1

HOMEWOOD

“The Elixir of Love” Samford Wright Center Opera Birmingham will host performances of the opera “The Elixir of Love,” Donizetti’s perennial hit comedy. The show will feature a cast of Alabama performers and conductor Tyson Deaton, leading musicians of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and Opera Birmingham Chorus.

Showtimes are Fri. at 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range from $20-$90. For more information, visit operabirmingham.org/.

Sat., March 25 BIRMINGHAM

Magic City Cycliad Railroad Park The Deep South Cancer Foundation will host a bike ride with various length options from 6 a.m.- 3 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the foundation’s efforts to help provide transportation, food and lodging to individuals battling cancer. Registration to ride is $40.

For more information, visit impact. deepsouthcancer.org.

BIRMINGHAM

SpringFest 2017 Artchovia U.S.A. The Magic-City of Art Campaign will host a festival, beginning at 1 p.m., to promote Birmingham as a “City of Art.” The event includes live music, visual art

Family Fun Festival in Mt Laurel

As spring returns, the town of Mt Laurel plans to host its annual Spring Festival on April 8.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. in Mt Laurel’s Town Center. Throughout the day, guests will hear live music on the Bryson Square Stage and sample foods from local food trucks, including Jim ‘N Nicks BBQ, Cantina on Wheels and Urban Pops.

A vendor area will feature fresh produce from participating farmers as well as handcrafted art, home decor, jewelry and pottery by local artisans.

At noon, Andrew Tufano, an up-and-coming singer-songwriter based in Nashville, will perform his signature folk and pop music on the main stage. Birmingham bands performing on the stage will include Good Fellows Jazz Duo, Steve Wingo and Melanie Rogers, and Fiddlers in the Park.

New this year, the festival will extend outside of the center of town, Olmsted Park will serve as a kids’ park.

Kids’ activities will include a petting zoo, face painting, inflatables and rides.

The festival is pet-friendly and admission is free. Parking will be available along Kessler Avenue and up to Abbott Square. Additional parking will be available around the Mt Laurel Elementary School and along Olmsted Street before it reaches the Town Center.

For more information, visit mtlaurel.com. ❖ and more. Admission is $15. For more information, visit “The Magic City of Art Spring Fest” Facebook page.

Tues., March 28 HOOVER

Networking for a Cause Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato This free networking event will be held from 5-9 p.m. and will act as a fundraiser for Grace Klein Community, which assists local families with food, clothing and household items. The evening will include live music, door prizes and a silent auction. For more

information, visit gracekleincommunity. com.

Fri., March 31 HOOVER

Xylouris White Hoover Library The library will host a performance

by Grecian-musician George Xylouris at 8 p.m. Born into a family of legendary musicians, Xylouris sings while playing the Cretan lute. He will be accompanied

by Australian drummer Jim White, who has played with such acclaimed artists as Dirty Three, PJ Harvey, Bonnie

Sun., March 26

Photos special to the Journal

BIRMINGHAM

U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus Alys Stephens Center The center will host the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus on Sun. at 4 p.m. This performance is free, but tickets must be reserved. For more information, visit alysstephens.org or contact the box office at 9752787 or ascboxofc@uab.edu. ❖

HOOVER

PurpleStride Birmingham Veterans Park UAB Medicine and the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network will host a 5k run and walk at 8:30 a.m. to raise awareness and funds to advance pancreatic cancer research and support patients. The family-friendly event will include children’s activities, music, refreshments, a ShopPurple store and more. For more information, visit support.pancan.org.

Wed., April 5 BIRMINGHAM

“Fueled by Passion” Charity Gala The Club The Alabama Auto Show will kick off its BJCC exhibition with a fundraiser gala at The Club. Then event will include a cocktail reception, dinner and a live auction. Proceeds benefit KidOne Transport, as well as Children’s Harbor and the AG Gaston Boys & Girls Club.

For tickets, call 980-0540 or email info@ bhamauto.org.

April 5-9 “Prince” Billy and Cat Power. Tickets are $12.50. For more information, visit hooverlibrary.org.

Sat., April 1 BIRMINGHAM

The Foundation Ball Haven Event Space The Rotaract Club of Birmingham will host its annual black tie gala from 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Tickets are $60 and include live music, dancing, light hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer. Proceeds support the foundations signature service projects and service initiatives throughout the community. For more information, visit birminghamrotaract. com.

BIRMINGHAM

Run For a Reason Avondale This sixth-annual Sozo Children

BIRMINGHAM

“A Little Night Music” Alys Stephens Center Theatre UAB presents this Tony award-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim, based on a book by Hugh Wheeler. Showtimes are Wed.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and $20 with student tickets for $6. For more information, visit uab.edu/ cas/theatre/.

April 5-16 BIRMINGHAM

“The Phantom of the Opera” BJCC Concert Hall Broadway in Birmingham presents a Cameron Mackintosh production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera.” Tickets begin at $35. For more information, visit theaterleague. com/birmingham/.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

Volunteers, from left, Donna Musgrave, Nancy Natter, Susan Hovater, Angela Hovater, Katie Stoddard, Chris Boles and Donna Taylor preparing for last year’s Spring Plant Sale.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 5

April 6-9 BIRMINGHAM

Photo special to the Journal

Spring Plant Sale Brookwood Village The Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host its largest plant sale of the year in the Macy’s upper parking lot.

The sale will kick-off with a members-only sale on Thurs. from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Public sale hours are Fri. from 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Admission is free. For more information, visit bbgardens. org/spring-plantsale. ❖

SAVE THE DATE Thurs., April 6 BIRMINGNHAM

Drink and Drop Vulcan Park and Museum In conjunction with the 28th Annual Brent Newman Memorial Egg Drop, the museum will host its inaugural Drink and Drop adult egg drop competition and cocktail reception from 5:30-8 p.m. Teams and individuals ages 21 and older can try their hand at the classic elementary student competition by keeping an egg protected after dropping it from the top of Vulcan’s 124-foot pedestal. For more information, visit visitvulcan.com.

Sat., April 8 BIRMINGHAM

CahabaQue BBQ Cook-Off Cahaba Brewing Company The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama will host its fifth annual BBQ cook-off to support breasts cancer research in Alabama. Festivities include tastings of BBQ, craft beer and live music. Gates open at noon and the event will run until 5 p.m. For more information, visit bcrfa.org.

HOOVER

Walk for Autism Veterans Park Autism Society of Alabama presents this walk and 5k race from 8-11 a.m. Proceeds will help to improve services for individuals affected by autism

Lease the 2017 6-Speed Automatic

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spectrum disorder within the state through education and advocacy.

Registration is $35 for the run and $30 for the walk and includes a t-shirt. For more information, visit walkforautismal.com.

BIRMINGHAM

Spring Fling Southern Museum of Flight The Support Committee for the Alabama National Cemetery will host an evening of dancing and a silent auction from 6-10 p.m.

Festivities include 50s-80s music performed by Spellbound, food, beverages and more. Proceeds will benefit the committee’s Overlook Project. Tickets are $25. For more information, contact Nancy Barefield at 305-7612.

To: Leaf and Petal From: 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 March 9, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

$2,999 Total Due At Signing

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

For well-qualified lessees. Includes down payment with no security deposit. Excludes tax, title, license and dealer fees.

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

lease per month for 36 months

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

Thank you for your prompt attention.

OR

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For well-qualified buyers. Example: 36 payments of $28.16/mo. per $1000 financed.

APR Financing for 36 months

King Acura Alabama Acura Dealers

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

Closed-end lease for 2017 RDX 6-Speed Automatic vehicles available through 5/1/17 on approved credit through American Honda Finance Corp., DBA Acura Financial Services for well-qualified lessees. MSRP $36,645 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title fees, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $31,185. Total monthly payments $11,124. Option to purchase at lease end $22,354. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 20¢/mile over 10,000 miles/year. APR offer valid on new and unregistered 2017 RDX Models available through 5/1/17, for well-qualified customers from Acura Financial Services through participating dealers. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by 5/1/17. Not all buyers may qualify. Higher rates apply for buyers with lower credit ratings. No down payment financing may be available for well-qualified buyers. Actual down payment may vary. Dealer sets actual prices. See dealer for details.

6 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

The Prep Isn’t That Bad

HOMEWOOD

“I think what sets our practice apart is twofold: Cutting edge technology and the amount of time we spend with our patients”, says James A. Smith, Jr., D.M.D., (above) of Advanced Endodontics, P.C. on Southside in Birmingham.

“My dental specialty is Endodontics; I am a root canal specialist. When the pulp (which includes the nerve) inside the tooth becomes diseased, it must be treated or the surrounding bone will become infected and the tooth could be lost. An endodontist deals with what is going on inside the tooth by removing the diseased pulp, then disinfecting and sealing the inside of the root to prevent further infection. I know that the word ‘root canal’ sounds ominous to some, but today’s endodontic treatment treatment procedure is essentially ‘pain free’.”

“We also retreat teeth that have become infected despite having had previous root canal therapy and we perform periradicular microsurgery if there is an infection in the bone that cannot be resolved with conventional root canal therapy.

“The technology we employ in our practice is world class, and we have made a significant investment in this area. Most recently we have introduced the Sonendo GentleWave system to Alabama as an alternative to traditional root canal therapy. In root canal treatment, the most challenging task is to thoroughly clean and disinfect the inside of the roots.

“If remnants of pulp tissue or bacteria are left behind during treatment, the patient can develop an infection in the jaw and their tooth can be lost. The GentleWave system uses a multisonic cavitation cloud and continuous irrigation to disinfect deep into the dentinal tubules where bacteria can hide, while preserving precious tooth structure; all of this in just 8 minutes. As a result, most teeth can be successfully treated in a single visit, oftentimes with less postop discomfort. We are seeing encouraging results and accelerated healing rates with our patients.

“Because of our technology and successful treatment methods, we see patients from all over the state, many of whom have teeth with failing root canal therapy.”

Dr. Smith has been practicing endodontics for nearly 35 years and is a part time faculty member at UAB School of Dentistry. He graduated with a B.S. from the University of Alabama in 1976, where he was a walk on player for Coach Paul Bryant. He then graduated from The University of Alabama School of Dentistry in 1980 and finished his Endodontic specialty training in 1982. He and his wife of 41 years, Lisa, live in Vestavia Hills where they raised their three children, Fuller, Morgan and Sidney. He enjoys hunting, exercising, college football and baseball, and traveling with Lisa to visit their children and grandchildren.

Advanced Endodontics, P.C. is located at 1500 20th Street So., and their phone number is (205)933-8544. Visit smithrootcanal.com for more information.

BIRMINGHAM

Walk MS Regions Field The National Multiple Sclerosis Society presents a walk beginning with check-in at 8 a.m. and a walk at 9 a.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit multiple-sclerosis research and supports programs and services for individuals touched by MS. For more information, visit main. nationalmssociety.org.

BIRMINGHAM

Cajun Cook-off Railroad Park Girls Inc. of Central Alabama will host its annual Cajun cooking competition from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., as well as live zydeco music. Attendants will taste-test and vote on a variety of Cajun favorites including gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice and more. Proceeds will benefit the organization’s programs which seek to inspire Central Alabama girls to be strong, smart and bold.

Tickets are $25 for adults and children 12 and under are free. For more information, visit bhamcajuncookoff. swellgives.com. ❖

Local Survivor Does His Part to Spread Awareness of Colorectal Cancer

By Emily Williams This month of March is dedicated to Colon Cancer Awareness, but survivor Dan Anderson finds time to share his story throughout the year.

His diagnosis came as quite a surprise, so he works to spread the word about colorectal cancer screenings to get more people to pay attention to their bodies’ inner workings.

Growing up in Homewood, Anderson started out with an active lifestyle and kept it up into adulthood.

“My whole family was active. My father used to be a professional baseball player. I played; my brothers played,” said Anderson, who went on to play on Samford University’s baseball team. “We were always doing something. Back then being active and playing outside was staying fit.”

Baseball took him through college, and as he started his career and a family, he and his wife settled in Vestavia Hills.

In the summer of 2007, a 44-yearold Anderson was generally feeling unwell, but juggling his job in commercial real estate and three kids at ages 11, 8 and 6 created enough diversions.

In July 2007, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. After being in severe pain throughout the night, Anderson stopped at an urgent care office. From there he found himself

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Offered at: Offered at: Advanced Endodontics, P.C. Advanced Endodontics, P.C. James A. Smith, Jr., D.M.D. James A. Smith, Jr., D.M.D. 1500 20th Street South 1500 20th Street South Birmingham, Alabama 35205 Birmingham, Alabama 35205 Phone: (205) 933-8544 Phone: (205) 933-8544 www.smithrootcanal.com www.smithrootcanal.com

Photo special to the Journal

Easter Egg Hunt West Homewood Park The Homewood Easter Egg Hunt is for toddlers up to eleven years of age from 6:30 p.m. to 7:20 p.m. Children will hunt for eggs with children of their own age group. The hunt for ages 7-11 years will begin after dark and flashlights are suggested. For more information, visit homewoodparks.com.

World-class Dental Technology

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

‘I had a family history and I was aware of cancer, but just like anybody else, I didn’t think it could ever happen to me.”

DAN ANDERSON

rushed into emergency surgery to remove a tumor that was creating a blockage in his colon.

“It was really a shock and everything happened so fast, so I really (didn’t) have time to process anything,” he said.

He was stuck in the hospital for a while, his stay prolonged when he suffered from a pulmonary embolism after surgery. To top it all off, when Anderson went in for his first round of chemotherapy, his body responded negatively, sending him back to the hospital bed.

Anderson was no stranger to the effects of cancer. His mother passed away at age 48 from breast cancer and her sisters suffered from the same cancer, as well. His mother-in-law is a breast cancer survivor.

“I had a family history and I was aware of cancer, but just like anybody else, I didn’t think it could ever happen to me,” he said.

Looking back, Anderson said he could have listened to his body, but the idea of cancer was miles away from his mind. Just two weeks before the surgery, while they were on vacation at the beach, a family friend mentioned that Anderson wasn’t acting quite like his usual self.

“I was almost lucky that it caused a blockage, because the tumor had just broken through the wall of my colon, but it hadn’t gotten to the lymph node yet,” he said.

Not personally knowing anyone who had battled this type of cancer, Anderson said he was surprised when he learned how common colorectal cancers are.

Developing colon cancer at age 44, Anderson was a bit too young for the routine colonoscopy health professionals suggest for ages 50 and up.

Nevertheless, he is a steadfast advocate of the procedure.

“Sure, I wish they would lower the age, but I realize that there are insurance policies involved,” he said.

“That’s why I talk to people about it.

One of the reasons my situation was such a surprise was because colon cancer was something that had never

really been talked about.”

Colonoscopy is one of the most common screening methods for colorectal cancers, but it gets a bad rap because of the prescription liquids some patients have to consume the day before the procedure.

“It’s really not that bad,” Anderson said. “It’s mostly the prep that people find a bit scary, but that part really isn’t bad at all and the actual procedure is easy. They put you under, so you aren’t even awake for it. Then you go home and get some of the best sleep of your life.”

However intimidating the screening may seem, it is one of the most reliable ways to catch colorectal cancers early on.

According to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Statistics Center, colorectal cancers are the third most commonly diagnosed cancers. They also are among the most treatable cancers, if caught early. Despite having reliable screening methods, colorectal accounts for the secondhighest number of cancer-related deaths, after lung and before bronchial cancers.

In an effort to reduce the number of deaths, the ACS introduced its new 80 by 18 campaign this month. Now, only 60 percent of colorectal cancer patients are diagnosed through a screening; the campaign seeks to raise that statistic to 80 percent.

Whenever Anderson encounters someone who has been putting off their first colonoscopy, he has no qualms about educating them. So, doing his part to support the ACS’s 80 by 18 campaign comes naturally.

“The more people talk about it and put it out there, the more people know how easy getting screened really is,” he said.

Shortly after his own battle, Anderson discovered that his siblings had been putting off screenings and his father, at age 80, hadn’t had a colonoscopy in his entire life.

“There is absolutely no reason not to get yourself checked out,” he said.

“I’ll tell anybody to get screened.”

COLON ON THE GREEN

Events designed to spread awareness are popping up around town this month, kicked off on March 3 as UAB hosted its first Colon on the Green. Rumpshaker Inc. brought its 16-foot inflatable colon to help educate the public.

The inflatable organ will make another appearance at the annual Rumpshaker 5K and one-mile fun run, March 25. The event will begin at 8 a.m. at Regions Field.

Since its inception in 2009, the race has raised nearly $1 million for the organization’s mission to spread colorectal cancer awareness, support patients and raise funds for research.

Registration for individual runners is $30 for the 5K and $20 for the fun run; for team members, the price per runner is $25 for the 5K and $18 for the fun run.

For more information, visit rumpshaker5k.com. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 7

ABOUT TOWN

BI RMI N G H A M

BOTANICAL GARDENS

SPRING

PLANT SALE 2017 SPONSORS: City of Birmingham • Brookwood Village • Event Rentals Unlimited

Public Plant Sale Friday, April 7 | 9 - 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 8 | 9 - 5 p.m.

Sunday, April 9 | 11 - 3 p.m.

Brookwood Village

Located in the Macy’s parking lot 780 Brookwood Village Birmingham, AL 35209

205.414.3950 • bbg a rdens.org

8 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

PEOPLE

Mountain Brook Woman Finds Her Calling After Carpool

By her own admission, Joy O’Neal had no horse sense.

“I never rode a horse growing up.

I never even touched a horse until one of my kids wanted to take riding lessons,” she said.

But now, the Birmingham native is the founder and executive director of The Red Barn, a therapeutic equine riding center in Leeds.

A self-proclaimed “barn mom,” O’Neal is using her years of experience being at the barn with her five children to drive her passion. She said she saw the good horse riding did for her children, who were not disabled.

“It helped them with their struggles and I thought about what I could do to make it possible for those who might not have this opportunity,” she said. “It can be very expensive.”

The Red Barn offers weekly private or small group classes for children with physical, cognitive or emotional disabilities and even children dealing with grief or other special circumstances.

O’Neal said one example would be a child with cerebral palsy, a disorder causing loss or impairment of motor function.

“Children with cerebral palsy, their muscles can get very tight. Riding can help stretch and strengthen their legs and core,” she said.

Similarly, a child with cognitive disabilities will experience what O’Neal calls “sneaky learning,” such as how to follow a sequence of instructions by completing the steps of grooming a horse.

O’Neal said that by spending time outdoors, exercising and developing relationships with the horses and instructors, a child with emotional disabilities can overcome obstacles at home and at school.

The Red Barn sits on 33 acres in Leeds and has 16 therapy horses, an indoor arena and several outdoor rings.

The horses are many different breeds but they are all approved for equine therapy.

O’Neal said the temperament and condition of the horses is paramount when it comes to an effective therapy horse.

“It is important for the horse to be forgiving and kind, but also to be fit with even movement. If the horse

Doyce Williams is president and CEO of the Alabama Eye Bank.

Sight Savers America Hosts Fourth Annual Awards Luncheon

Flame enjoys getting groomed by, from left, Sabina DeHut, Cianan DeHut, Amber Owens, Cooper DeHut and Joy O’Neal.

Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

By Sarah Kuper

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Back in the Saddle

“I asked myself, ‘What am I going to do with my life?’ I had always been driving carpool.

I now find that, after being a mom for so many years, I can still stay involved with kids in a meaningful way.”

isn’t fit, it is like trying to use a wheelchair on uneven ground.”

According to The Red Barn’s webpage, the organization’s core beliefs are that everyone needs a safe place to belong and feel accepted, that having fun is important and that God

keeps his promise and works everything together for good.

“The experience is very fun but it is also changing their lives like no other therapy would do. The fun has a purpose,” O’Neal said.

She adds that The Red Barn is a faith-based, nonprofit organization that depends heavily on volunteers and donations of money, supplies, time and talents.

O’Neal estimates that each lesson costs up to $125 and, since insurance rarely covers equine therapy, many students must receive some amount of scholarship.

Staff members at The Red Barn pride themselves on being good stewards of donations, but they estimate operating costs to be $1,000 per day.

So, O’Neal said participation from the community is important to keep

the barn up and running for children who benefit from the therapy.

In addition to weekly lessons, the barn offers summer camps, educational seminars and continuing education for equine therapy professionals.

Since it opened as The Red Barn in 2012, the agency has accomplished a lot, O’Neal said. Plus, it has given her a way to channel her passion for children even after her own are grown.

“I asked myself, ‘What am I going to do with my life?’ I had always been driving carpool. I now find that, after being a mom for so many years, I can still stay involved with kids in a meaningful way,” she said.

O’Neal is currently working hard with the staff to plan a pioneer and folklife event in April, host a St. John fashion show in May and orchestrate a fundraising race in June.

For more information on The Red Barn and ways to help, visit theredbarn.org. ❖

A special luncheon was held March 8 at Regions Field as Sight Savers America presented its fourth annual Hall W. Thompson Hero for Sight Award to Doyce Williams, president and CEO of the Alabama Eye Bank.

To commemorate this year’s award, an original painting was created by George Mendoza, a nationally known artist from New Mexico who has been able to overcome his severe visual impairment. The work will be displayed for one year in the UAB Callahan Eye Hospital as a part of the Hall W. Thompson Hero for Sight Award display.

The award is named after late board member Hall Thompson, who was a business leader in Alabama and had a significant impact on the organization and on children’s vision issues. In addition to his 36 years presiding over the Alabama Eye Bank, Williams is a member of the Eye Bank Association of America.

“Doyce has been a good friend and important supporter of our organization and Alabama’s eye care community for decades,” said Jeff Haddox, president and CEO of Sight Savers America. “He played a significant role in helping Sight Savers America with in-kind gifts and advice in our formative years.”

The Alabama Eye Bank is a Birmingham-based nonprofit with the objective of obtaining quality human eye tissue and distributing it to qualified physicians around the world. Under Williams’ leadership, the bank has been ranked as a top 10 eye bank in the world for 33 consecutive years.

More than 300 people attended the event, sponsored by Vulcan Value Partners, including representatives of Alabama’s eye care community as well as corporate and community leaders from across the state.

Hayley Barber, Miss Alabama, was a guest speaker at the event and she spoke of Sight Savers America as her charity of choice. ❖

Hayley Barber, Miss Alabama, was a guest speaker with George Mendoza, a nationally known artist from New Mexico.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 9

Photos special to the Journal

PEOPLE

1997-2017

YWCA Kids Korner Luncheon Supports Homeless Children YWCA Central Alabama hosted its 10th annual Kids Korner Luncheon on Feb. 16 at the BJCC East Ballroom.

The event raised $175,007 to support the YWCA’s Kids in Distress Korner child development program for children of homeless families. The event was coordinated by the YWCA junior board, led by co-chairs Anne Lary and Taylor Cooper.

According to YW CEO Yolanda Sullivan, the luncheon reached a significant milestone this year, having

raised more than $1 million in 10 years.

“At the YW, we believe in providing those with the least the very best start in life,” said Rikki Ross, director of child development services for the YWCA. “Many of our children come to us with adult-sized worries, so our staff is trained to meet their very specific needs.”

Kids Korner is nationally accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a distinction earned by only 6 percent of

centers in the country.

Members of the Kids Korner Luncheon Committee are: Annemarie Axon, Mary Cox Brown, Yonti Brown, Mary Kathryn Bryant, Dana Cockrell, Rebecca Eubanks, Jeris Gaston, Anne Morris Hackney, Brenda Hackney, Lindsay Hackney, Kayla Lawrence, Yawanna McDonald, Elisa Nelson, Breauna Peterson, Lacey Scott, Tanya Shunnara, Callen Thistle, Ann Watford, Rachel Weingartner, Ginny Willings and Whitney Wright. ❖

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For his Eagle project, DeGaris demonstrated his leadership skills by organizing and directing the construction of tables and benches to Women’s Economic Stability Initiative be used by To: Collier's Jones Valley From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Teaching Farm Date: March in its outdoor This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for th classroom March 23, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. at Glen Iris Elementary.

A senior at John Annesley Mountain Brook DeGaris III High School, DeGaris is co-captain of the varsity Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. lacrosse team for the second year in If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, a row. He is a member of the National your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

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Clara Bragg, a 2½-year-old Hoover resident, visits with the Girl Scout Cadette troop at Prince of Peace Catholic Parish.

Local Cadette Girl Scouts Donate to GM1 Research

On Feb. 23, members of the sixthgrade Cadette Girl Scouts from Prince of Peace Catholic School, Brocks Gap Middle School and the Altamont School donated a percentage of their 2016 cookie sales to the Cure GM1 Foundation.

The young girls donated a check for $250 to the foundation in honor of Hoover resident Clara Bragg, a 2½-year-old who suffers from gangliosidosis, or GM1, a fatal genetic disease for which there is no treatment.

“They were excited to meet her and hoped their efforts would help in saving her life,” said Cadette leader Beth Martin. “The girls would like to continue to help in the future.”

The funds will benefit research to perfect a human gene therapy trial which could save Bragg’s life and other

children with the disease.

In addition to donating funds to GM1 research, the scouts donated 75 percent of their sales to charities, including the Suki Foundation, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and the Prince of Peace building fund.

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Mountain Brook’s DeGaris Earns Eagle Scout Rank

John Annesley DeGaris III recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout from the Vulcan District Eagle Board.

DeGaris was recognized Nov. 20 with a Court of Honor ceremony. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 320 at Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church, under the leadership of Scoutmaster Frank Tynes.

DeGaris served in various leadership positions with the troop and was elected by his peers to the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor

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10 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

BMA Director Retiring After 20 Years in the Job

By Emily Williams

Photo special to the Journal

1991, she managed a $21 million expansion, which increased the museum’s size by 50 percent. In 1996, she The Birmingham Museum of Art was appointed director. As director, she announced March 17 that, after more oversaw dozens of exhibitions originatthan 20 years as R. Hugh Daniel direced by the BMA that then traveled tor, Gail Andrews plans to retire from nationally, and she brought in landmark the position. exhibitions from other institutions.

According to a release, Andrews “It is with deep pleasure and gratiboasts an overall tenure with the musetude that I reflect on my 40 years with um that spans four decades, and she this museum, a place I love and will end her run as director in the early respect. It has fall. given me the “For more than opportunity to 40 years, Gail work with indiAndrews has been viduals in the a tireless advocate museum and in for the arts in the community Birmingham and who are wise, the state of inspiring and great Alabama. Her colleagues and remarkable knowlfriends,” Andrews edge and passion said. “We are forfor art is matched tunate to have a only by her drive premier instituto enhance the tion, and our lives of others; and ongoing challenge her contributions is to create broadto our institution, er and deeper our community, engagement in our and the museum community and field at large are beyond, ensuring immeasurable,” greater appreciasaid James K. Gail Andrews boasts an overall tention, participation, Outland, chairman ure with the museum that spans four decades, and she will end her run as and sustainabiliof the museum’s director in the early fall. ty.” board of trustees.

According to “Under Gail’s museum officials, the museum’s holdleadership, the Birmingham Museum ings grew from 13,000 objects to of Art has strategically developed a vast and distinguished collection, estab- 27,000 objects under Andrews’ leadership. She oversaw the acquisition of the lishing itself not only as one of the Buten Wedgwood Collection, which most outstanding art museums in the Southeast, but also as a critical resource established the BMA Wedgwood collection as the largest in North America. for arts education in our region. Gail’s She expanded programming, funding legacy will remain apparent through the phenomenal works that hang on the and staff; secured the endowment of five museum positions; and increased Museum walls, and her impact will the general endowment by $20 million. continue to enrich lives in our commuIn addition to leading the BMA, she nity for generations to come,” Outland served as president of the Association said. of Art Museum Directors from 2007 to Andrews, a native of California, received her bachelor’s degree in histo- 2008.

A published scholar and authority ry at the College of William and Mary, on textiles and folk art, Andrews spearheaded museum initiatives to collect and display the work of self-taught artAs interim director in ists from the Deep South. She also 1991, she managed a $21 helped enhance the contemporary collection with works by women and million expansion, which African-American artists, including the commission of the internationally increased the museum’s renowned painting “School of Beauty, size by 50 percent.

School of Culture” by Kerry James Marshall.

Upon retirement, Andrews will continue to co-curate the museum’s pursuing a master’s in American folk upcoming folk art exhibition. Russell art/museum studies from the Reynolds Associates has been selected Cooperstown Graduate Program. to search for the next director, who the Arriving in Birmingham in 1976, she served as the BMA’s first curator of museum expects to be in place before Andrews’ fall exit. ❖ decorative art. As interim director in

NEWS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Vestavia Hills Fine-Tuning Community Spaces Master Plan

By Emily Williams

After developing a master plan for the city’s recreation facilities, the Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Department has decided to think bigger.

Headlining the department’s new Community Spaces Plan are the redevelopment of Wald Park and the potential development of a community center.

At the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce’s March luncheon, former Parks and Recreation Board member Tommy Dazzio presented the department’s new Community Spaces Plan.

“What this plan does is it addresses the city’s needs in terms of recreation facilities and green spaces,” Dazzio said.

The new plan builds on the foundation set by the 2015 Recreation and Athletics Master Plan, with recommendations from national company Brailsford and Dunlavey as well as feedback from town hall meetings held in November and December.

Dazzio explained that one of the main

‘The goal here was to make Wald Park a destination park. Right now, it is a place where you go to watch your son play baseball, or your son or daughter play basketball. It’s not really a park where families go to spend time and hang out.’

TOMMY DAZZIO

issues this plan addresses that the 2015 plan did not is the need to widen the scope and enhance facilities across the entire city.

“We have a disparity between the quality of our facilities and their access to our population,” he said. For example, Dazzio noted that the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex, while being the most updated of the city’s facilities, is not easily accessible to the majority of the city’s population.

The most work to be done will be in Wald Park, with each option involving mostly new development.

“The goal here was to make Wald Park a destination park,” Dazzio said.

“Right now, it is a place where you go to watch your son play baseball, or your son or daughter play basketball.

It’s not really a park where families go to spend time and hang out.”

Two options for the development were presented, both addressing the improvements laid out in the 2015 plan: installing artificial turf on athlet-

The most work to be done will be in Wald Park, with each option involving mostly new development.

ic fields, updating and improving existing facilities, increasing parking and constructing covered batting cages.

The bulk of the work will be in expanding the park’s green space by removing non-sports facilities, including the Vestavia Lodge, and making it more walkable despite the changes in elevation.

Dazzio noted that option two of the park plans has been the most well received. It includes buying a plot of land in the northwest corner of the park and using it for additional parking. He said the owner of that property is willing to sell it.

A favorite aspect of the design, Dazzio noted, is the opportunity to move playgrounds to the areas with varying elevation and using design features such as slides to connect higher elevation with lower.

“We have the opportunity to have something unique, that no other city has and that you might not be able to find across the country. We have the ability to have someone custom design something for us that you can’t find anywhere else,” he said.

The Recreational Center at Wald Park has its own section of the master plan. Two options are presented to make the existing center function better for the community.

Both plans include updates to the facility and an expanded design for the pool.

The first option is the bigger undertaking. It would include building a third-floor event space to accommodate non-sports activities that had been going to the Vestavia Lodge.

The last part of the Community Spaces Plan suggests developing a community center next to City Hall to accommodate non-sports activities.

“As we’ve had town hall meetings, a lot of people have questions as to why this is necessary,” Dazzio said.

“Right now, at peak times – which is

every weekend and every afternoon during the week – our rec center is maxed out. There is no more space available in our rec center. The rooms at the library are maxed out. There is no more activity space at the library.

The New Merkel House – the seniors have to share that with other groups.”

The project team is working on a proposal to buy the building adjacent to City Hall, which now is owned by an out-of-state company and leased

by Gold’s Gym. “We approached the Arizona company who has tentatively agreed to sell the property to the city,” Dazzio said.

Should the building be purchased by the city, the Community Spaces Plan includes two options. In the first, the building would work solely as a multi-purpose event space. The second option would use the first floor of the building much like a gym, including fitness and workout rooms, locker rooms, dance space and a practice court.

“Basically we are at capacity now and we can’t really build anything big enough that works at (the) Wald Park site, and we need this additional space to accommodate the needs of our residents as we go forward for the years to come,” Dazzio said.

The second floor would include activity rooms and large event spaces to accommodate non-sporting community or civic needs.

“This is what could satisfy the needs of the city for all of our programming for the next 20 years,” city manager Jeff Downes said.

The cost of making changes in the plan is projected at $49,702,000, including additional improvements to Altadena Valley Park, the Cahaba Heights ball field and the Old Berry Middle School athletic facilities.

With various options from the plan still under consideration, the planning committee will continue to collect feedback from the community. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 11

NEWS

Golden Anniversary

Hoover Marks Its 50th Year With Events Into the Summer

By Annie Howard Hoover’s turning 50, and it has big plans to celebrate.

Last week at Hoover-Randle Home & Gardens, Mayor Frank Brocato announced upcoming anniversary events.

On April 29 at Veterans Park, Celebrate Hoover Day returns. Guests can look forward to the classic giant apple pie, activities for all ages, live entertainment and the yearly Veterans Dedication Ceremony.

“We encourage friends and families to come out and spend a day at the park,” said Erin Colbaugh, Hoover’s events coordinator. The annual city-wide celebration is free to the public and lasts from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On April 23, local author Heather Jones Skaggs will sign copies of her book, “Celebrating Hoover’s History,” at the Patton Creek Barnes and Noble.

On May 18, exactly 50 years after its incorporation, the city will bury a time capsule at City Hall.

“The mayor’s been going around to each city school to collect a couple

On May 18, exactly 50 years after its incorporation, the city will bury a time capsule at City Hall. of items that the students have chosen to contribute,” said Colbaugh. One student created a special art piece; yearbooks and mascot merchandise from each school will also be included. “We hope to open the capsule 25 or 50 years from now,” Colbaugh said.

In the summer, Brocato will help the public cool off with a little cake and ice cream. The city is planning gatherings throughout Hoover’s communities; the mayor will visit each one with dessert.

The celebration extends beyond calendar events; also keep an eye on social media and the city’s appearance.

The city is already gearing up to look its best. Street banners will soon

Advocate Rallies in DC for Breast Cancer Research and Treatment Pam DiPiazza of Homewood traveled to Washington, D.C., representing Susan G. Komen North Central Alabama at a March 9 rally to remind leaders of the importance of funding cancer research.

DiPiazza joined more than 100 breast cancer activists from across the country at the event. They stressed the need to maintain access to cancer screening programs and to call on policy makers to ensure parity of insurance coverage between oral chemotherapy and

Hoover Police The Early Years

The city of Hoover was born on April 28, 1967, a tiny area “four blocks long and one block wide.” The “four blocks long” consisted of Whispering Pines Circle, Deo Dara Drive, Greenvale Lane, and Valgreen Lane. The population of the young city was four hundred and six people.

Hoover’s first police chief was sixty-five year old James R. Norrell, the retired Captain of Detectives for the Birmingham Police Department. Don Watts, Hoover’s first mayor, had high hopes for Norrell, saying, “He came highly recommended from every law enforcement agent that we talked with.” He then added, “Chief Norrell will assume his duties as police chief as soon as the city acquires a police car.”

When Norrell got that car, a 1968 Ford Galaxy, the police department was housed in a tiny office in Hoover Fire Station One. Occasionally, the fire station restroom would function as a jail until the prisoner could be transported to Vestavia. In February of 1968 Chief Norrell hired Oscar Davis as a part-time patrol officer, and in March of 1968 Chief Norrell retired and passed the job of Chief of Police on to Davis, who would remain in the position for the next eight years, serving under Mayors Don Watts, O.E. Braddock, and John W. Hodnett during a period of rapid growth in the young city.

At the start of his tenure, in addition to his service as Chief of Police, Chief Davis also functioned as city inspector, writing permits for new construction in the growing city, which had expanded from a few streets around Whispering Pines Circle to include much of the area currently in central Hoover north of I-459. The police force grew as well, expanding from a lone officer with a 1968 Ford Galaxy to seven officers, four Sergeants, and four dispatchers, with a fleet of six or seven mid 1970s Ford Police LTDs. Before hip surgery forced Davis’s retirement in 1976, the police department was finally able to move from the shared office space at Hoover Fire Station One to offices built specifically for police personnel in the new City Hall. ❖

new rehab center

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From the Hoover Police Department website.

go up along U.S. 31, bearing the city’s special 50th logo and tagline: “Building Community Together.”

The city is providing anniversary decals for businesses to post on their front doors and windows. Local resident Emily Johnson also created coloring sheets of iconic Hoover spots.

Colbaugh urged residents to check

the city’s social media for upcoming videos, one of which already has been posted, on 50 people in the community.

“We’re going to highlight a different video each week on social media about each aspect (the person) has contributed to the growth and development of the city,” said Colbaugh. ❖

traditional IV treatments.

“As the health care system continues to evolve, we cannot forget that many people continue to rely on vital safety net programs, such as the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program,” Ellen Zahariadis, executive director, said in a statement.

“We cannot step back from our commitment to ensuring access to quality breast cancer screening and treatment.”

Zahariadis said traditional IV treatments often have lower insurance co-pays than oral chemotherapy treatments, which often are governed by prescription drug benefit rules.

“Many new cancer drugs are out of

reach for patients because of outdated insurance rules that classify them as specialty drugs under their prescription drug benefits, requiring significant out-of-pocket costs for patients,” Zahariadis said. “Treatment decisions should be made by patients and their doctor based on what is the best medical option – not by which treatment protocol is less likely to bankrupt them based on insurance rules that haven’t kept pace with science.”

While on Capitol Hill, DiPiazza met with representatives from the offices of Sen. Richard Shelby, Sen. Luther Strange, Rep. Mo Brooks and Rep. Terri Sewell, all of whom represent Alabama. ❖

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OvertheMountainJournal(4.0625x6.25)(Final).indd 1

205-956-4150 3/7/2017 7:58:57 AM

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Annie Howard On Feb 6, Vestavia Hills kicked off a chaplain program unlike anything else in Alabama.

The new chaplain force will serve all city departments as well as Vestavia residents.

“We set out to design a program that would be responsive to four constituencies: the Vestavia Hills fire department, the Vestavia Hills police department, the city of Vestavia employees not in the VHFD and VHPD, and the citizens of Vestavia Hills,” said the Rev. Butch Williams, a chaplain and pastor at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church.

Williams helped shape the new chaplaincy, researching other programs around the country.

“What we found is that a program focusing on all city departments was almost unheard of in the U.S.,” he said.

Sharing a chaplain force is a new concept. Most chaplains are specific to one department – for example, a city fire chaplain.

Vestavia’s program serves multiple city departments, plus residents. It also unites the VHPD and VHFD, which oversee the chaplaincy.

Sgt. Randall Jones and Lt. Don Williamson manage the joint program.

Jones is an officer with the VHPD and the program’s chaplain coordinator; Williamson is with the VHFD, previously the main VHFD chaplain.

Only a couple of years ago, they were total strangers.

“Funny enough, we never talked,” said Jones. “We didn’t know each other existed.”

Both Jones and Williamson, however, began to notice the same gap in the “critical incident” system.

“When we would run a death in the field or if a citizen of Vestavia got killed in a car accident and the police

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

NEWS

Sgt. Randall Jones, above, is an officer with the Vestavia Hills police department and the program’s chaplain coordinator.

Everyone Needs a Little Help Vestavia Hills Launches Chaplain Force

had to make a death notification to a survivor, we really didn’t have anybody to help them through that process,” Williamson said. “We didn’t have anybody to help cover the gap between the notification and (the survivor’s) personal support system getting in place, like their church or family members.”

Jones remembered an officer death in which the officer’s close friends had to notify his family.

“There was no one there to go visit the family. And I’m thinking, this is not right,” he said.

In 2015, two local ministers, one of them Williams, approached the VHFD to talk about ways to help the department. The two got in touch with Williamson, and together they brainstormed the chaplain program. Jones joined up soon after and helped to realize the program, contacting ministers in the area to gauge interest.

“It was pretty much between (Williams), myself and Don. We reached out to every single church in Vestavia Hills. It was literally just sitting down and calling every single church,” Jones said.

The city’s chaplains will help fill in the critical incident gap, ministering to city employees and assisting with death notifications and deaths in the field.

They’ll also be available to residents if “a crisis happens involving police or fire,” Williamson said. Vestavia’s chaplains will assist city employees first and foremost, but will remain on call for residents as well. Jones calls it a “twoprong system.”

Williamson cited the need for a program like this in aiding with “critical incident stress.”

“The firemen that responded to the Oklahoma City bombing had a 99 percent divorce rate,” he said. “At that

2017 V2V Run Sets a Record The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce announced a record-setting year for the annual Village 2 Village 10K, presented by Schaeffer Eye Center.

According to chamber officials, the March 11 run had 781 registrations and 632 finishers, both of which are race records.

The top male racers included Reed Schmidt, first; Travis Grappo, second; and Dustin Dew, third. The top three female racers were Ann Sisson, first; Keri Frazier, second; and Anne Huff, third. ❖

fund season tickets they can present to local students as an academic incentive. “(What) we’re asking is just a donation of the cities’ population in support of our coaches,” Alexander said. The fund then will “purchase some season tickets, give them to the schools and the schools can give them to kids with great grades and good character.”

In addition to providing this opportunity for Vestavia Hills, Alexander and representatives of the fund will offer this opportunity to other cities throughout the greater Birmingham area.

—Jordan Wald, Emily Williams

At the Vestavia Hills City Council meeting March 13, Tim Alexander gave a presentation on the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Football, Bowling and Rifle Support Fund.

Alexander, who was paralyzed from the waist down 11 years ago, serves as an honorary UAB football player and has acted as a spokesman for UAB football throughout the campaign to restore the program.

In 2015, Alexander found himself in a similar situation, giving his presentation and watching the council pass a resolution to urge the UAB president and board of trustees to reevaluate the program cancellation.

This time around, Alexander thanked council members for their past support while presenting a new opportunity to further support the fund. UAB is offering to Tim Alexander, center with UAB supporters Chuck give city governments Turnbough and Phyllis Rodgers at a recent Vestavia that donate to the Hills City Council meeting.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Journal photos by Maury Wald

Honorary UAB Football Player Pitches Academic Incentives to Raise Athletic Funds

point is when they realized that critical incident stress – job stress, the day-today things that we see and do – eventually wears on you. It takes a toll on families and everything else.”

Vestavia’s chaplains have been trained in critical incident stress management. They also are cross-trained by the fire and police department in basic first-response skills. They learn first aid, CPR and fire extinguisher use, and they take Federal Emergency Management Agency courses that help with incident command, Jones said.

Feb. 6 was the culmination of a year of training for the first chaplain class. By the end of March, Vestavia will have six newly certified chaplains.

They will soon be joined by more; a second class cycle is starting up next month.

Williamson and Jones hope the program will benefit the community as well as strengthen ties between their departments and residents.

“Nobody calls the fire department unless they’re having a bad day – nobody calls the policemen if they don’t need anything. So when life gets really tough and reality hits, we will have a level of service that we can provide to our citizens to give them support until their support system can get in place,” Williamson said.

“Any time you call the police or you come in contact with the police, 99 percent of the time, it’s bad,” Jones said. “For (citizens), they’re realizing that, ‘Hey, when I lost my loved one, to think that this police officer stayed here, got a chaplain for me, and was just there when I really needed somebody,’ that will never leave that person.”

The chaplain program is open to all religious affiliations and denominations. Williamson encouraged any interested ministers or chaplains to contact Jones. ❖

RMHC of Alabama Breaks Ground on New Wing

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama held a ceremony March 3 to break ground on a new addition, a three-story 28,543-square-foot wing that will nearly double the home’s occupancy.

The addition will include 33 new guest suites, kitchens, family rooms, an exercise room, a meditation room, new laundry facilities and more. The space will allow the facility to accommodate more children who are receiving medical treatment at Children’s of Alabama and UAB and their families.

“It is with diligence, integrity and compassion, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama joins and aids families in their efforts to find hope, healing, happiness and growth, regardless of obstacles placed before them,” said Katherine Estes Billmeier, CEO of RMHC of Alabama, above.

The project will be completed by Williams Blackstock Architects, which designed the original wing of the house, along with general contractor Brasfield & Gorrie. Executive Vice President at Brasfield & Gorrie Jack Darnell noted that the project should take 10 months to complete.

“When it is complete we will have 73 guest suites. We will have new kitchen facilities and separate facilities for the families and volunteers. And I do want to mention the volunteers because without them, the atmosphere and the love would not be as great as it is and we owe them a lot,” said Randy Nichols, President of the board of directors for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama began in 1979 as a small house for pediatric cancer patients and moved to its current location on 4th Ave. S. in 2007.

RMHC of Alabama board President Randy Nichols noted that the house has been averaging 12 families on its wait list each night, which led the organization to expand. In summer 2015, the organization noted a spike resulting in 55 families on the wait list.

“We are so happy and so grateful that we’re going to be able to expand and provide these new things to our families,” Nichols said. “Serving on this board has been the best thing I have done in my professional life.”

According to organization officials, the initial capital campaign goal of $7.5 million for the project was exceeded by $85,000 and fundraising will continue throughout the project as additional expenses arise.

“Ronald McDonald House is more than just a room to sleep in. It’s families and staff sharing meals together, praying about each other’s struggles and just rejoicing in the smallest victories,” parent Amy May said.

—Emily Williams

Photo special to the Journal

12 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 13

NEWS

Smiles All Around

Smile-A-Mile staff, friends and families of pediatric cancer patients gathered March 16 to cut the ribbon on the organization’s first building that is all its own.

The new facility, which will continue to serve pediatric cancer patients, survivors and their families, first opened Feb. 6 and is located in Birmingham’s Parkside District just blocks away from Children’s of Alabama.

“Welcome to Smile-A-Mile Place – a place where we will fulfill our mission to provide hope for the childhood cancer journey,” said SAM Executive Director Bruce Hooper. “Less than a year ago, we stood in this very spot preparing to break ground and launch an exciting new chapter for Smile-A-Mile. We knew at the time we were embarking down an extraordinary path but we had no idea the ways our entire organization would evolve over the next 12 months.”

The project was completed by contractor B.L. Harbert and design firm Cohen Carnaggio Reynolds and has been paired with an organization rebranding aided by Scout Branding.

Journal photos by Maury Wald

Smile-A-Mile Cuts Ribbon on First Free-Standing Facility

SAM Executive Director Bruce Hooper, left, and Board President Justin Truelove cut the ribbon on the organization’s first building that is all its own.

“Over the past year, as we had the opportunity to tell our story, it became apparent it was the perfect time to explore ways to fine-tune our brand to better describe our full scope of work.

Now, we are ‘Smile-A-Mile’ and our logo got a revamp as you can see here,” Hooper said.

Thirty years ago, when the organization originated as Camp Smile-A-Mile, the programming included summer camp sessions for patients. Along the way, SAM’s programming grew in response to the growing needs of the children and families served. SAM now incorporates year-round programs, including a hospital outreach program,

family activities, Beyond Camp for adult survivors of childhood cancer, scholarship programs, bereavement programming and more.

“I always say the magic of what we do is our programs’ ability to bring people together who have faced obstacles that no one should ever have to endure. Our families are able to understand and be there for each other at a time when they need it most. There is something very powerful about that.

Smile-A-Mile Place will be the home that welcomes these families and provides hope for their journey,” Hooper said.

Following the ceremony, guests were invited to tour Smile-A-Mile Place and enjoy food provided by Jim ‘N Nicks.

—Emily Williams

Birmingham Children’s Theatre

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

WORLDS AWAY

Ann Rich with her dance partner Fabian Sanchez.

Long-Time BMA Patron Revisits Collection and Reconnects with Curator

Photos by J. Woody O’Neal

TAKE THE LEAD

By Emily Williams At 104 years of age, Helen Hudgens has traveled the world collecting art and experiences. But for her wish of a lifetime, she stayed closer to home.

On March 10, Hudgens visited pieces of her own art collection that she donated to the Birmingham Museum of Art and her old friend, senior curator Dr. Donald Wood.

Upon learning that Wood will be retiring this summer after three decades with the museum, Hudgens said she had to make one more trip to see her collection and her friend. Her wish was granted through the Wish of a Lifetime organization, Hudgens said the a national wish-granting organization arts always have that has a close partnership with Brookdale University Park in been important to Homewood, where Hudgens lives. her. She has been “Helen Hudgens is a very special person,” Wood said. “I first met an avid supporter when I became curator of and member of the Helen Asian art here at the Birmingham BMA as well as the Museum of Art in 1987. She and her late husband, James, were founding Heard Museum, members of the original support group for the museum, the Asian Art the Smithsonian Society, and she attended every sinand the Native gle event we held until her health American Museum, prevented her from attending.”

of which she is a charter member.

See HUDGENS, page 18

Competitive Ballroom Dancing Keeps Ann Rich on Her Toes

By Emily Williams

On March 10, Helen Hudgens visited pieces of her own art collection that she donated to the Birmingham Museum of Art and her old friend, senior curator Dr. Donald Wood.

Ann Rich’s relationship with ballroom dancing can’t be called kismet. The Birmingham resident didn’t start ballroom dancing until her early 50s.

The first time she stepped into the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Hoover, she didn’t fall in love with ballroom dancing. In fact, it didn’t spark any kind of resounding emotion.

“Initially, my husband and I went to Fred Astaire in Hoover to take lessons because our daughter was going to get married,” she said.

“That was about seven years ago and it didn’t really interest me then.”

Nowadays, Rich is regularly seen in her dancing shoes, performing in ballroom dancing competitions throughout the country.

Having never taken a dance class before the lessons seven years ago, Rich developed her affinity for rhythm and music through exercise.

“I’ve always been athletic,” Rich said. “I started teaching aerobics in the ‘80s, and back then all of the popular exercises were about moving to the See RICH, page 16

Photo special to the Journal

LIFE

14 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Danberry at Inverness The Unique Choice in Senior Living

In the past, seniors seeking a retirement community had few options. Often, it was either an uninspiring urban high-rise with few outside amenities or an upscale development built around a golf-course or waterfront with few personal services.

But today’s retirees and tomorrow’s retiring baby boomers increasingly demand an environment that not only is carefree, but also offers them ample opportunities to remain mentally and physically active in a soothing natural setting.

In other words, they want an address that redefines retirement.

Danberry at Inverness senior living community, located at 235 Inverness Center Drive in Hoover, just off US 280 and Valleydale Road, is an example of an inspiring approach to retirement living that feels unique from the moment one enters its atrium lobby. Stained-glass windows and a cascading waterfall set the mood for a retirement lifestyle that emphasizes natural beauty, vitality, and personal fulfillment. Residents can choose from comfortable one-, two-, or threebedroom luxury apartment homes which are appointed with upscale features such as ceramic tile floors, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. English gardens and flowering landscapes complete these picture-perfect residences.

The award-winning Frank Lloyd Wrightinspired architecture and natural surroundings only add to the peaceful, stress-reducing environment.

“We believe that Danberry at Inverness offers

LIFE

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 15

people over 55 independent living unlike anywhere else—one that encourages growth, learning and discovery of new things about yourself and your environment,” said Danberry at Inverness Marketing Director Lori Krueger.

Comprehensive health and wellness services for independent living, assisted living, and memory care lifestyles are available at Danberry at Inverness, and they are offered in meticulously designed environments that invite nature indoors.

For example, throughout the Danberry at Inverness Clubhouse, nature seamlessly blends both indoors and out with fireplaces, the atrium lobby, English tea gardens and waterfalls. Here, residents can take care of everyday details and enjoy a range of first-class amenities (movie theater, creative art studio, bridge and card rooms) and services (library, mail/communications room). Dining is available in the formal dining room and al fresco on the garden terrace.

A Dynamic Approach to Wellness The advantages of living in one of today’s wellness-oriented retirement communities are many: ample opportunities to stay as strong and independent as possible, staying in the mainstream of activities and events, and keeping a healthy outlook on life. Danberry at Inverness offers exceptional fitness opportunities all under one roof, such as “senior-friendly” spa services, a fully equipped fitness center, classes including Tai Chi, aerobics, water yoga and Pilates, a private senior-friendly heated indoor, resort-style saltwater pool, and a wellness clinic.

“We make sure our residents have every opportunity to learn, explore and savor life in a whole new way,” said Krueger. “In other words, we help them design a future filled with fun!”

This community really must be seen to be believed, so stop by Danberry at Inverness today or visit DanberryAtInverness.com. Or call 205443-9500 for more information.

Get more out of life at Danberry at Inverness Even more than larger floor plans, gorgeous architecture, and outstanding amenities— Danberry at Inverness frees you to create a lifestyle all your own, with Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care all right here. More peace of mind. And a lot more fun!

Call 443-9500.

Residents enjoy: • Flexible dining options • Transportation • Housekeeping • Fitness Center • Wellness Clinic • 24-hour nursing • Indoor resort-style pool • Full-service salon & spa • Card & billiard rooms • Creative arts studio

235 Inverness Center Drive Hoover, AL 35242

DanberryAtInverness.com

• Movie theater • And much more!

TOP: The atrium at Danberry at Inverness is the center of the clubhouse that connects the common areas, providing a place residents can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cocktail with friends before dinner. LEFT: Indoor swimming pool at Danberry at Inverness.

ABOVE: A mother and daughter spending time together at Danberry at Inverness.

16 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

RICH, From page 14

Cahaba Ridge

Resort-style Retirement Living Cahaba Ridge, a resort-style retirement community, opened in April of 2017. Today this luxurious community is the home of happy residents who have the option to engage in a full schedule of activities, from painting classes, bingo, fitness events, shopping days and clubs, to live shows in a state-of-the-art theater and lunches around town.

The all-inclusive month-to-month rent brings residents the safety and security they need to relax and enjoy retirement living, where fresh, chef-prepared dining choices bring everything from fine dining to a casual buffet and room service.

When residents don’t feel like driving all over town to

take care of daily business, Cahaba Ridge has an on-site bank, hair salon and general store with pharmacy services.

The community also has scheduled transportation via a shuttle bus and 24/7 concierge services.

Each apartment home is designed for convenience and comfort and includes a full kitchen, bathrooms with great lighting and washer/dryer hookups. Maintenance and light weekly housekeeping are provided by the professional staff.

Guests are welcome. Please call 201-7364 to schedule your visit to Cahaba Ridge.

Cahaba Ridge is located at 3090 Healthy Way, Vestavia Hills, 201-7364.

Cahaba Ridge

Cahaba Ridge Retirement Community The brand new Cahaba Ridge brings peace of mind and choices

while eliminating the surprises of home ownership.

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205-203-9222 3090 Healthy Way  Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 

CahabaRidgeRetirement.com

music.”

It was her affinity for upbeat and musical exercise that brought Rich back to the Fred Astaire studio after the dance lessons had finished.

Fabian Sanchez, co-owner of the studio, returned home after appearing on the sixth season of Dancing with the Stars and began teaching a Latin Cardio Class.

“It was right up my alley because it was like aerobics, but you used Salsa and Samba and other forms of dance,” Rich said.

Around that time, the studio hosted a regional dance competition and Rich stuck around one day to watch a bit of ballroom dancing. Then she was hooked.

“It looks so easy and fun, but it’s really hard,” she said. “What I really love about it are the people.”

Rich sees ballroom dancing as a sport for anyone. With varying skill levels and intensities, on any given day she’s dancing next to people ages 16 to 80. Beyond age, she enjoys the equalization it brings to the group as class and occupation get tossed to the side when people are on the dance floor.

“The one thing that is very cool about dancing is that every dance has its own emotional component,” she said. “So, you have to feel the dance and you feel all of these different emotions.”

EMOTIONAL CONNECTION

Depending on the dance, the emotions of the dancer will naturally evolve with the music. Rythym dances have a sassy and flirty vibe through the steps, Rich said, and always evoke a smile.

“Most people who know me would probably say I like the rythym dances more,” she said. “But my favorite is actually the Viennese Waltz. When you look at it, it seems the epitome of elegance, but it’s also very fast because you are in constant rotation. You move so quickly that you appear to be flying across the floor.”

Rich never intended to start dancing competitively, but the opportunity presented itself and she took her skills to the next level.

“It is total mind, body, emotional,” she said. “You have to think about your own steps and your own moves all while focusing on another person’s steps, because you’re not doing it by yourself.”

Working with Sanchez, exercise turned into training as she strived to perfect her steps, which is a full-body workout in itself. The downside to the intensity is that it leads to injury, which for Rich resulted in a stress fracture in her left foot.

“When you are ballroom dancing, it puts a lot of pressure on the inside edge of the foot. So, it wasn’t any certain thing that I did that caused it, it was just a build up,” she said.

The fracture couldn’t have come at a more inopportune time. Six weeks before Rich and Sanchez were set to compete in the 2016 Fred Astaire World Competition in Las Vegas, Dr. Ricardo Colberg at St. Vincent’s had her foot put in a cast.

“I had never had any broken bones or anything like that. When he put that

cast on it was the first time I had ever been in a cast,” she said.

The cast came off after three weeks and she spent another three weeks in a boot, with a lot of time spent at home keeping the weight off of her foot.

“Because I was so driven to do well, that was a very challenging summer for me … but I never cheated and I did everything I was supposed to do,” Rich said.

Though she was disappointed to miss out on Las Vegas, Rich set her sights on the next competition once she was back in the studio. When she competed at the Fred Astaire National competition in Orlando, she and her partner, Sanchez, won the Rhythm Open Championship for her age division.

“That was probably the biggest moment I’ve had dancing,” she said.

“When you first start competing, you never expect to win anything. Now that I have, I kind of want to keep winning.”

To win the title, she and Sanchez had to dance five dances: the Cha Cha, the Rumba, the Bolero, Swing and Mambo.

“As time goes on, I’ve found that I don’t want dance to always be so stressful,” she said.

It isn’t unusual to pack up to 100 dances into a competition day, which requires Rich to practice a lot of self care on a regular basis with massages, chiropractor sessions and intensive stretching.

“It has definitely kept me in amazing shape,” she said. “It’s really the only thing I do for exercise because it is such an all-encompassing workout.”

IT’S ABOUT THE PEOPLE

Despite her drive to compete, Rich’s favorite aspect of dancing will always be the community she has found.

The community of dancers in Birmingham is surprisingly large, Rich said, and she equates that to the growing diversity of people who are brought to the city through jobs with the University of Alabama at Birmingham or the city’s larger corporations. If there is a dancing night hosted at a popular venue, Rich is bound to see some familiar faces.

“We have met the greatest people, you meet such a wide variety of international people that dance, that’s been one of the best parts of dancing,” she said. “We have friends from Argentina, from Columbia, from Hungary, from the Ukraine. They are serious dancers, but they want to have a good time.”

Every Friday night, the Fred Astaire studio community hosts practice parties where folks gather to socially dance while enjoying each other’s company, and Rich said she’s hardly missed a social since she started dancing.

“It’s just a totally different world,” she said. “ I used to live in workout clothes and athletic shoes, but now I’m exercising in dresses with sparkles and fringe and three-inch heels.”

Though the clothes are different, Rich sees many similarities between aerobics and ballroom dance.

Whether she is feeling sick or she’s had a rough day, Rich said she can always count on leaving the studio with a smile on her face.

“You don’t run across that in a sport in the same way,” she said. “When I’m dancing, I can’t stop smiling. It gives you such a feeling of joy. It’s just a very joyful sport.” ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 17

LIFE

Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Discover Your Spark at Somerby Senior Living

What does it mean to “Discover Your Spark?” At Somerby Senior Living, it means inspiring and nurturing successful living each and every day. Residents discover their spark by trying new things and continuing lifelong learning. They receive support in making positive life choices, creating new friendships and keeping family traditions and relationships alive.

“We encourage our residents to explore, grow and find some fun along the way,” said Executive Director Debra Blais. “All of our programming is designed to foster positive relationships, help residents explore their hobbies or interests, and encourage them to share their talents.”

Located in a wooded pocket near the Highway 280 corridor, Somerby St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is surrounded by natural beauty and modern conveniences. Residents enjoy regular trips to nearby shopping centers and restaurants, access to St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Health and Wellness Center and amenities at the community itself. Somerby associates also schedule special events throughout the year to keep residents engaged and active.

The Somerby community accommodates residents with diverse needs, offering independent living, assisted living and memory care options, which allow a resident to transition to increased support should their needs change over the years.

According to many residents, moving to Somberby has been one of the best moves they’ve ever made - offering newfound freedom, enhanced security and expanded options for activities and engagement. When visiting a Somerby community, guests should ask to meet with residents and gain further insight about

how and why they made the decision to move and what they love about Somerby.

Somerby Senior Living is a wholly owned subsidiary of Dominion Partners, headquartered in Birmingham. For more information about

Somerby or its many locations throughout the Southeast, visit SomerbySpark.com.

Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is located at 200 One Nineteen Blvd., Birmingham, 745-4600.

The Somerby community accommodates residents with diverse needs, offering independent living, assisted living and memory care options, which allow a resident to transition to increased support should their needs change over the years.

Full of Friends. Full of Family.

Join a community where retirement means it’s time to Discover Your Spark.

At Somerby, Residents fill each moment with purpose – enjoying activities and events that support their social, spiritual and physical well-being. It’s a place that our Residents, Families and Associates alike come to call “home.”

We’d love to share it with you.

Experience what makes Somerby so Full of Life. Explore our website for Resident stories or call us to schedule a personal visit.

INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE

8 00.994.4669

•

www.Som erbySpark.com

18 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

Town Village Vestavia Hills

From left: Sarah Sexton, outreach coordinator; Sandi Hall, marketing director; and Sarah Scott, admissions coordinator with Kirkwood by the River.

Kirkwood by the River

Why should you move to Kirkwood? The residents have the answers: “My husband and I looked at a number of places when deciding to move to a retirement community. For the most part, we found communities that said, ‘We’re going to take care of you.’ But Kirkwood was different. It wasn’t just about taking care of us. It was also about having fun, having friends, and living life to the fullest. The attitude at Kirkwood was positive and the atmosphere was comforting. We simply couldn’t resist. Without a doubt, the location was ideal. The Cahaba Room that overlooks the river, the mountains, the trails – there were just so many things about life. The community was lively. It was alive,” said resident Alice Brooks.

“My only regret is that I didn’t move here sooner with my late husband. We would have loved living here together. It would have been perfect for us to travel without the responsibilities of a home,” said Nell Mehaffey, resident.

“One thing that we feel is very important here at Kirkwood by the River is the relationship that we have between the staff and the residents. They are dedicated to making our life here as safe and secure and pleasurable as possible. That goes a long way.” Resident Association President Fred Rogers said.

“We love that Kirkwood isn’t only church affiliated, but faith is a very prominent, important part of the community. To us, there just couldn’t be a better place,” said resident Bob Tate.

“If you asked me, I would say it gets better every year!” said Robbie Sevier, a resident of 37 years.

Kirkwood by the River is a nonprofit life plan community offering independent living, assisted living, memory care assisted living, skilled nursing and medicare rehabilitation.

For more information on Kirkwood by the River or to schedule a tour, contact Sandi Hall at 862-0305 or visit kirkwoodbytheriver.com.

Kirkwood by the River is located at 3605 Ratliff Road, Birmingham, 956-2184.

Town Village Vestavia Hills is an independent living community for seniors. The community has recently been renovated and offers a wide variety of apartment style choices with full kitchens.

Additional care services are available onsite for residents who need additional help with daily activities. Town Village offers a variety of amenities such as an indoor heated pool, walking trail, fenced-in dog park, gardening boxes, all-day dining options and many fitness classes.

“Water Aerobics is a favorite among many of the residents,” said Desiree Soriano, director of sales and marketing at Town Village.

Town Village offers great choices for someone who is considering the idea of senior living, whether they are still active in their lives or if Anne Martin they exerpience declined health and favor an independent lifestyle with additional care services.

“I visited seven retirement communities, spent the night in two of them before deciding Town Village was the place for me. In real estate and retirement locations, location is everything. Little Shades Creek is in our side yard – walking along the creek going North, in a half a block you have many restaurants and stores to go to. We are not a lot of marble and glitz but we are friendly and fun.

Laughter and loving friendships are all around. My story is continuing here,” said resident Anne Martin.

Tours are available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and by appointment on weekends.

Town Village is located at 2385 Dolly Ridge Road, Birmingham (behind the CVS off of Rocky Ridge Road), 979-2702.

Founded in love. Rooted in faith.

Dedicated to service.

Kirkwood by the River has been caring for the area's seniors for 37 years, with help from a loving staff, the beauty of God's natural wonders and the joy of friendship. Located on the Cahaba River, we escape the hustle of the city while being merely miles from the shopping, dining and cultural destinations of Birmingham.

Independent Living | Assisted Living Memory Care Assisted Living Skilled Nursing | Medicare Rehab

LIVING WELL Aging Gracefully Enjoy all the advantages of retirement living. Build friendships, explore your interests, and enjoy a carefree lifestyle.

• Spacious apartments • Flexible, restaurant-style dining • Indoor heated pool • Emergency call system and 24 hour on-site staff • Engaging life enrichment activities and social opportunities • Optional care services available

A Ministry of Independent Presbyterian Church Birmingham, AL

Contact Sandi Hall at 205-862-0305 or visit www.kirkwoodbytheriver.com 3605 Ratliff Road | Birmingham, AL 35210

2385 Dolly Ridge Road Birmingham, AL 35243

205-979-2702

www.TownVillageVestaviaHills.com

HUDGENS, From page 14

Hudgens, a native of Bliss, New York, has said she always saw value in education. After graduating from Geneso State College of New York, she pursued a career as a school teacher, first in her home state and then in Birmingham.

She also became a poet, publishing six books of poems. Through her poetry, she gained recognition from the National Society of Pen Women and has had her work read at the organization’s annual meeting of Arts and Letters.

Of the many places she visited with her late husband, Hudgens said that Asia is her favorite destination. When she returned from Asia, she brought back a passion for its cultures and an art collection worthy of exhibition.

Hudgens said the arts always have been important to her. She has been an avid supporter and member of the BMA as well as the Heard Museum, the Smithsonian and the Native American Museum, of which she is a charter member.

“Over the years, she has been a very generous patron,” Wood said.

Items she has donated can be seen in the museum’s Asian Art Gallery, which she returned to for the first time in 10 years during her recent BMA visit.

According to ‘Helen Hudgens Wood, though her visits are is a very special few today, in her heyday with person ... She and the museum, she her late husband, was a regular James, were fixture.

“I also had founding members the pleasure of escorting Helen of the original to the annual support group for museum dinner and ball on sev- the museum, the eral occaAsian Art Society, sions. Her wit, and she attended intellect and charm always every single event made a memorable evening we held until her for all of us,” he health prevented said.

Her legacy her from attending.’ lives on through her donations, whether it is an 18th century Chinese porcelain bowl decorated with peaches and landscaping or a 19th century Korean ceremonial scepter – an unusual find, according to Wood.

In addition to supplying pieces, Hudgens has provided funds that have supported Wood and the museum’s efforts to acquire additional works for the Asian art collection.

“These include everything from a secondcentury jar from Vietnam, an eighth-century Chinese ewer, Korean textiles, Japanese ceramics, paintings and calligraphies, to a wonderful group of Japanese textile stencils from the 19th century,” Wood said. “Her kindness and generosity have helped enrich the collection in many ways.”

In addition to reconnecting with Wood, Hudgens and a group of family and friends spent her Wish of a Lifetime enjoying a private tour of the museum led by Wood.

“In the past few years, we have kept in touch with cards and phone calls. The museum has also tried to remember Helen each year on her birthday with flowers,” Wood said. “We miss her coming to the museum, especially to celebrate her birthday at a luncheon here with her friends.”

Hudgens and the tour group enjoyed a lunch at the BMA to celebrate not just a birthday, but the wish of a lifetime granted. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 19

LIFE

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Save up to $1000! Call for Details 205-909-6585

Country Cottages Introduces Sensory Therapy Room for Memory Loss Patients The assisted living community of Country Cottage held an open house March 9 to introduce its new Snoezelen Room, a treatment opportunity for residents suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

The room uses lighting effects, calming textures and sounds to create a mood-enhancing space that activates all of a patient’s senses.

“Once the concept of mutli-sensory therapy, or Snoezelen Room, was introduced to us at The Cottages, we knew we had to do it for our residents,” said Marketing Manager Amy McWilliams.

By stimulating all of the senses, she added, the room enhances a user’s

communication skills, which are essen- has a calming effect on aggressive tial to creating a good relationship behaviors that are sometimes present between residents and caregivers. with advanced dementia.

In addition to have a calming effect, “The soothing and positive environexposing the resiment inside the dent to many differ- ‘The soothing and room can help to ent sensory experireduce tension and positive environment ences increases feelings of confuinside the room their understanding sion in residents can help to reduce of their environwho have dementension and feelings ment. tia,” she said.

“While the aver- of confusion in “Reducing these residents who have age person may types of feelings touch close to 300 plays a huge role in dementia.’ different surfaces in calming residents a half hour, a perwho may be prone son with advanced to angry outbursts dementia may touch and aggressive only about three behavior.” different surfaces in McWilliams the same amount of said the therapeutic time,” McWilliams said. effects of the room make it a pivotal According to a behavioral and cogpiece in serving Country Cottage’s resnitive psychotherapy study by idents who are living with Alzheimer’s Cambridge University, McWilliams and dementia. noted that this type of sensory therapy —Emily Williams

Assisted Living

It’s not what you might think …

It’s Where Neighbors become close friends Evenings are spent by the fireplace in good company The smell of homemade cookies fills the air It’s where your loved one can experience

Independence, Dignity & Choice Call today to see how we can help your family!

205-909-6585

Cottages The

3776 Crosshaven Drive • Birmingham • www.cottageassistedliving.com

SOCIAL

20 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Rock-A-Hula Baby Annual Elvis Ball Guests Party in a Polynesian Paradise

Kondal Kyanam and Ahana Vedre.

Photos special to the Journal

From left: Lindsey Donahoo, Segal Drummond, Hillary Drummond and Caroline Drummond.

Emily and Justin Ivins.

Sam and Russ Weaver with Terri and Benjamin Osborne.

Christian and Missy Rogers.

Basheer and Meg Alismail with Jason and Amelia Strauss.

10 Years of Dance

Alabama Ballet Marks Artistic Director’s Anniversary With Gala The Alabama Ballet celebrated Tracey Alvey’s 10th anniversary as artistic director with a gala at B&A Warehouse on March 16.

During her tenure, Alvey has brought the works of renowned choreographers to Birmingham, including Twyla Tharp’s “In the Upper Room,” which is being performed in April. The company also is one of eight companies in the world licensed to perform George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker” under Alvey’s leadership. Other notable works under Alvey’s direction have included Agnes DeMille’s “Fall

River Legend,” Tharp’s “Bakers Dozen,” and Balanchine’s “Stars and Stripes.”

While a dancer, Alvey performed at the highest levels throughout Europe and the Far East as well as in North America. She performed lead roles in “Swan Lake,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “Cinderella” and “Giselle.”

At the end of her dancing career, Alvey attended the Royal Academy of Dance’s Professional Dancers Teachers course. The Alabama Ballet School still uses the Royal Academy of Dance curriculum.

Lindsay Puckett and Katherine Whitson.

Alvey’s direction, “These past 10 the company has years have been drawn high-caliber wonderful and I dancers and the have enjoyed school has continworking with ued to offer stueach and every dents exceptional dancer that was training. engaged with the “Her distinAlabama Ballet,” guished reputation Alvey said. “This amongst the ballet organization is so world has enabled much more than Alabama Ballet to just a ballet comMary Margaret Scalici, Tracey Alvey gain access to classipany, it is a font of and Tara Fasshauer. cal and contemporary talented people, I choreography, thus building a repertoire considrelish every moment.” ered one of the finest in the nation,” Goodrich Mary Goodrich, president of the Alabama said. ❖ Ballet board of directors, said that, under Journal photo by Jordan Wald

B

irmingham can’t help falling in love with the good times to be had at this event. The third annual Elvis Ball: Blue Hawaii, benefitting Creative Montessori School was held on March 4.

This year, guests were greeted by hula dancers and received flower leis as they entered WorkPlay.

Dressed in Hawaiian attire, guests enjoyed casino gaming; a disco featuring DJ Stevo; renowned Elvis impersonator David Lee; photo booth; silent and live auctions; and food and beverages from Emily Vanlandingham local estab- and Rachel Brawley. lishments such as Rojo, Urban Cookhouse, The J. Clyde, Continental Bakery, Cahaba Brewing Company and International Wines.

Keri Lane Hontzas and Micah Cargo cochaired the school fundraiser with the help of a dedicated fundraising committee composed of parents, teachers and board members. The event was an over-thetop success, raising more than $40,000 for the school. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 21

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Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Among the items in the auctions were bronze sculptures by internationally acclaimed Birmingham artist Frank Fleming, a dining package featuring meals at each of Frank Stitt’s restaurants, a reserved parking spot for “The Elixir of Love” performance at Samford University’s Wright Center and an oil painting by legendary Birmingham artist Richard Blauvelt Coe from the private collection of Patrick Cather.

The black-tie affair was sponsored

by United-Johnson Brothers of Alabama LLC. ❖

Tonie Bone, Mimi Jackson and Megan Johnson.

From left: Fred Keith, Terri Sullivan and Brant Sanders.

Elixir of Love Annual Gala Turns the Florentine Into an Opera House

Opera Birmingham hosted the 2017 Opera Gala, presenting an elegant evening to celebrate the 2016-2017 season.

The historic Florentine was the setting as guests mingled and dined with the cast of the upcoming show “The Elixir of Love.”

The evening began with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction, followed by a seated dinner prepared by Corretti Catering.

Following the meal, a concert of opera favorites was performed by “The Elixir of Love” cast before beginning a live auction with Dr. Andrew S. Duxbury.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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If so, you may be interested in taking part in an exercise training intervention. UAB researchers are currently looking for overweight women with a history of breast cancer to participate in a novel exercise training study.

Volunteers will be asked to attend two assessment sessions, before and after 8 weeks of exercise training, to collect information concerning your health status.

Volunteers must be 18-70 years of age with a body mass index between 30-45 kg/m2.

Further eligibility screening will be conducted by telephone for those interested.

Volunteers must reside in or near Jefferson County, AL. The goal of the study is to evaluate a novel exercise training strategy designed to mimic exercise at higher altitude to support improved health and mobility among breast cancer survivors. Studies such as these would not be possible without volunteers.

Please contact: Dr. Stephen J. Carter (205.975.0269 or carters@uab.edu) or the UAB Exercise and Cancer Research Team (205.975.1247 or moveforward@uab.edu) to learn more.

CLEAR EYES FULL HEARTS CAN’T LOSE

he Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246

his is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the March 23, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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Photos by Arden Photography

Are you a breast cancer survivor having difficulty walking?

Do you have any lower-body pain that is restricting your mobility?

From left: Joe and Glynis Fuqua, Mary Claire Fuqua, Charlie LaLane and Allison and Tyler Fuqua.

Come One, Come All

Glenwood Junior Board Hosts 13th Annual Big Top Fundraiser The Club was transformed into a fun-filled big top circus Feb. 17 as the junior board of Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Center celebrated its 13th annual A Night Under the Big Top fundraiser.

More than 650 guests were greeted at the event by a ring master, jugglers, hula-hoopers and more. They took part in festive games and activities, raising more than $227,000 to support Glenwood’s mission to provide health and educational services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other emotional disorders.

A guest favorite for the past few years, the silent disco was equipped with double the number of headphones for guests to use and dance to the music of DJ Mark AD. The Divines played music in the main ball room and the Drennen Brothers Blues Band played in a VIP room.

Kendra Scott donated 100 Mystery Boxes to the event, each containing a piece of jewelry worth between $55 and $165.

The event was organized by junior board event chair Richard Danner, supported by Glenn Drennen, president; Stacey Summerville, vice president; David Drummond, treasurer; Lindsay Jones, secretary; Noah Oliphant, past president; and junior board members. ❖

Glenn and Bridget Drennen with Becca and Tommy Brown.

Callie McCraney and Malcolm Taylor.

More than 650 guests were greeted at the event by a ring master, jugglers, hula-hoopers and more.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Schoolhouse Rock

SOCIAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 23

Party Raised Money for Cornerstone Schools With Music, Food and Auctions

Karen and Clint Kirby.

Balancing Act

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

The junior board for Cornerstone Schools of Alabama hosted the annual Schoolhouse Rock fundraiser at Iron City Birmingham on March 10, bringing more than 1,000 guests to the venue.

Music by the Billy Gant Band and DJ Mark Lindsey set the tone for the evening as guests enjoyed food, drinks, giveaways and both live and silent auctions. A VIP section provided guests with a separate bar and food area, along with gifts and signature cocktails.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Cornerstone in its efforts to serve inner-city children in Birmingham. ❖

Tommie and Jake Headrick.

ARC Realty agents Vicki and Robert Warner are teaming up to bring the highest levels of customer service to Birmingham home shoppers.

Above, from left, Dan Gavin, Rylee Roquemore and Louisa and Brooks Marks. Below, Ky Sevier, Kyndle Sims, Kacey Weddle and Tim Donahue Jr.

Married to their Work

Vicki and Robert Warner have always shared a passion for work, pursuing adventurous careers in education, design, and sales management. Though they’ve partnered in home sales for years, Robert recently decided to leave a corporate position to focus exclusively on their growing real estate business.

“There’s momentum in home sales right now and positive things happening in Birmingham, so the time felt right,” says Robert.

Having grown up on a farm, Robert’s interests gravitate to land development. “Seeing a piece of dirt evolve from an empty field into a thriving neighborhood never gets dull.”

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The couple’s enthusiasm for real estate sales has earned a high referral rate and repeat business from clients. Beau Bevis, president and CEO of ARC Realty, has a unique view of the dynamics of this husband and wife team. “Vicki and Robert have complementary skills and interests,” says Beau. “A lot of husbands and wives look forward to going to work to have separate identities from their spouse, but the Warners share a passion for real estate. They would be successful at anything they set out to do. We’re very lucky to have them on the ARC Realty team.”

“Joining the ARC Realty team is one of the best decisions we ever made,” says Vicki.

Vicki’s experience as a teacher and interior Her full-time commitment put her near the decorator equipped her to guide clients top of ARC Sales in 2016, with more than through the steps of buying or selling a home. $13 million in closings. With Robert’s recent “I love every aspect of this business,” says move, there’s opportunity for friendly comVicki. “The school teacher in me loves workpetition between business and life partners. ing with first-time homebuyers, educating “Being in control of your life, making things them on how to approach the process. The happen doing the kind of work you love, decorator in me loves helping someone visuthat’s what I’m excited about,” says Robert. alize the potential in a home. It’s so much “It’s a privilege to help people buy or sell a fun, I have a hard time making myself stop home, and I get to work with a great partner.” wanting to work all the time.”

For more information on Vicki and Robert Warner’s listings, visit vickipwarner.com or call Vicki at (205) 789-5114 or Robert at (205) 789-9123.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Visit the showroom in Mountain Brook Village!

AND THE

FOOD TRUCK FARE

Vestavia Country Club was the setting for Samford Legacy League’s Scholarship Luncheon on Feb. 23.

Nearly 300 members and guests enjoyed a meal and fellowship in the ballroom, decorated with arrangements of begonias and ivy.

Serving as keynote speaker for the luncheon was Melanie Shankle, New York Times bestselling author, blogger at the bigmamablog.com and regular contributor to The Pioneer Woman Blog.

Legacy League President Kathryn Woodruff welcomed luncheon guests and gave the invocation. Jeanna Westmoreland, executive director, recognized event sponsors, including Brookdale University Park Senior Living Solutions and Wells Fargo Advisors.

Vice President for Student Scholarship and Support Paula Gossett introduced Cameron Thomas, a 2014 Samford graduate and current Beeson Divinity School student. Thomas, a Samford admission counselor, loves to share his Samford experience with prospective students, expressed his gratitude to the league and called Samford “a place of unlimited possibility.”

“Your presence here today,” he told the audience, “is making someone’s dream come true.”

Scholarship luncheon chairwoman Kathy Clay introduced Shankle, the author of three books, including “Sparkly Green Earrings” and “The Antelope in the Living Room.”

With a touch of humor and an abundance of passion, Shankle shared an inspirational message on the importance of authentic friendship.

“Finding our people happens because God puts people in our path and knits our hearts together,” Shankle said. “That’s ultimately what God gives us in friendships: a real-life, everyday miracle in the form of another person.”

She also encouraged the audience to model the beauty and importance of female friendship to the young girls in their lives.

Scholarship luncheon committee members included: Clay, Lisbeth Cease, Lindsay Kessler, Jane Lewis, Lynn Parrish, Sharon Smith, Allison Strickland, Cynthia Watts, Brenda Weaver, Westmoreland and Woodruff.

More than 40 additional volunteers helped make the event a success.

The luncheon netted more than

Unlimited Possibility

New York Times Bestseller Headlines Legacy League Luncheon

Photo special to the Journal

24 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

Melanie Shankle.

From left: Susan Doyle, Amy Lytle and Karen Carlisle.

$10,000 for Samford’s 175th Anniversary Legacy League Scholarship, which will help provide life-changing scholarships for deserving students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances.

On April 27, the league will host its Scholarship Celebration, featuring the Annie Moses Band.

For more information, visit samford.edu/legacyleague or call 7262807. ❖

Front, from left: Cathy Braswell and Katie Hughes.

Back: Grace Cook, Kathryn Weakley, Lisa Hubbard and Alison Kynerd Thomas.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 Vestavia Hills City Hall 10AM – 4PM Featuring: Artists, Artisans & Entertainment Kathy Clay, Melinda Mitchell, Leanne Messer, Vickie Griffith, Lisbeth Cease and Lisa Hubbard.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 25

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Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring

Fandango Dance Club Ended Winter by Making Plans for a Spring Party The Fandango Dance Club held its winter meeting Feb. 7 at the home of Vicki and Charles McGehee.

Carolyn Nowicki and Mary Ellen West organized an array of food and beverages for the evening.

Antoinette Flowers, membership chairman, announced the following new Fandango members: Cynthia Fitts Broughton, Pat Heath Pelham, Jennifer Hill Boyland, Mary Ruth Cary Thomas, Lillian Laughlin and Marda Walters Sydnor.

Anne Luckie Cobb went over the dance club’s plans for its upcoming spring party April 28. Invitations will be sent out to the members by April 7.

Some of the members in attendance included Candace Wasson, Sandra Holley, Sue Ellen Lucas, Debbie Tanner, Antoinette Flowers, Jowane Patton, Anne Hicks, Linda Holman, Elise Warren, Judy Mathews, Nowicki, Margaret Reyher, Kathy Pearce, Ann Beck Thomas, Jeanne Clark, Gwen Mizzell, Pat Houseal, Jane Howard, Brenda Ross, Dorothy Lynam, Lochrane Coleman Smith, Paula Cox, Debbie Dresher, Laurie Yearout, Barrett MacKay, Nancy Booth, Shirley Anne Stringfellow, Becky Keyes and Vicki McGehee. ❖

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Above, front, from left: Dotty Still and Jowane Patton. Back: Anne Hicks, Mary Ellen West, Carolyn Nowicki, Anne Cobb, Elise Warren and Antoinette Flowers.

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To: From: Date:

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N O O PE W N

Coronets Dance Club Hosts Seasonal Meeting The Coronets Dance Club spring meeting and luncheon was held recently at Vestavia Country Club.

President Nancy Becker presided over the board meeting of officers and committee chairs and a business meeting that included all members.

Four new members from the fall meeting were welcomed: Glenda Jones, Rebecca Wingett, Patty Clay and Cheree Carlton.

Invitations to join will be sent to Judy Long and India Askew. All of the new members for the year and newly elected officers for the coming year will be honored at a wine and cheese party to be held soon at the

From left: Glenda Jones, Rebecca Wingett, Cheree Carlton and Patty Clay.

Vestavia home of Nancy Becker.

After the invocation by Sue Belcher, members enjoyed a luncheon of Chicken Cordon Bleu, smashed potatoes, haricot verts and lemon supreme dessert, planned by Una Ray Barnett and Dot Renneker. They concentrated on a Mardi Gras theme, using arrangements of yellow chry-

Nancy Becker, Evelyn Ringler, Sue Belcher and Dot Renneker.

santhemums and purple Dutch iris in the center of each of the round tables.

Debbie Visintainer announced plans and distributed invitations for the spring dance to be held in April.

Board members enjoying the event were: Jean Burnett and Gloria Hudson, charter members; Nancy Becker, president; Shirley Palmes, vice president; Evelyn Ringler, secretary; Shelley Watkins, treasurer; Linda Wood, assistant treasurer; and Carolyn Delk, parliamentarian/immediate past president.

Other members in attendance included: Carol Powell, Edna Alderman, Nelle Freeman, Joy Wilkes, Carolyn Edge, Cheryl Hardwick, Karen Tucker, Nancy Boone, Redonda Broom, Cindy Edmonds, Glenda Etheredge, Fay Hart, Marsha Hire, Margaret Howell, Nell Larson, Joanne McConnell, Rusty Kirkpatrick, Sue Belcher, Una Ray Barnett, Dot Renneker, Debbie Visintainer, Susan Stofel, Janis Zeanah, Anne Nelson and Cindy Tilghman. ❖

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Photo special to the Journal

26 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

From left, Lynda Robertson, Bailey Salmon, Emma Crawford, Katie Gilson, Katlyn Gandy and Belinda Youngblood.

Viridian offers all the charm of a vintage neighborhood with the latest energy-efficient green homebuilding technologies. These authentic, one-of-a-kind homes are tucked in the woods in a unique gated community off Tyler Road, with prices starting in the $600s. Two lush parks and an abundance of green space provide privacy and a sense of history for this significant property.

A Good Citizen

General Sumter DAR Presents Awards ners. All are from Briarwood Schools and were accompanied by their art teacher, Belinda Youngblood.

Winners of the art competition include: Bailey Salmon, eighth grade, chapter winner and third place state winner; Emma Crawford, eighth grade, chapter winner and first place state winner; Katie Gilson, ninth grade, chapter winner and first place state winner; Katlyn Gandy, 12th grade, chapter winner and first place state winner.

Chapter and state winners of the Junior High Banner Contest are Avery Bush, Anna Gardner Herren, Julianne Lett and Jordan Martens.

Chapter and state winners of the

Senior High Banner Contest are Steven Giddens, Katie Howard, Caroline Jones, Sadler McKeen and Elise Sappington.

Members attending included: Cindy Bartlett, Sara Beth Blair, Emily Blount, Molly Bradley, Mary Cole, Sallie Cox, Martha Lee Culp, Cece Dillard, Carolyn Drennen, Marsha Drennen, June Eagan, Miriam Ford, Annie Green, Judith Hand, Nancy Jones, Mary Anne Kirkpatrick, Becky Keyes, Barbara Lummis, Donna Lummus, Gloria Lundberg, Judy Mann, Rebecca Mason, Kathryn Porter, Nelda Pugh, Natasha Randolph, Donald Roth, Carolyn Satterfield, Janeal Shannon, Cynnie Sproull, Mallie Steele, Rhetta Tatum, Ellen Tucker, Jean Vaughan, Marilyn Waggoner, Donna Ware, Margie Williams, Liz Wolff and Dorothy Zeigler. Guests included Wanda Anderson, Laura Haygood, Patricia Putnam, Cheryl Williams and parents of the contest winners. ❖

Photos special to the Journal

Vestavia’s Premiere Green Home Community

On March 1, the General Sumter Chapter of the DAR met at the Birmingham Country Club with chapter Regent Mary Helen Dixon presiding. Carolyn Johnson, chaplain, assisted in the club ritual.

Pam Eubanks, American History essay contest chair, introduced the following chapter winners who read their essays: Joseph Bell, an eighth-grader at Briarwood Christian School, and Lauren Luker, a fifth-grader at Briarwood Christian School, who also was the DAR state winner in the American History Essay Contest. The winners were accompanied by Debbie Glasgow, a Briarwood teacher.

Rebekah Taylor, chair for the DAR Good Citizen Essay Contest, introduced an essay reading by George Moore, this year’s chapter winner and a senior at Briarwood.

Lynda Robertson, Junior American Citizen Art Competition chair, presented the following students as win-

www.wedgworth.net (205) 365-4344 Beverly Thornton, Robert Anderson, Harold Thornton and Fred Olive.

Bobby Horton and Howard Poarch.

Still ‘Fighting’ for Country

Sons of the American Revolution Focus on Youth During Convention The Alabama Society of the Sons of the American Revolution held its annual convention at the Embassy Suites in Hoover on Feb. 17-18.

Club President Dr. Fred Olive III of Vestavia Hills presided at the convention, attended by members from throughout the state. Also in attendance were National SAR Secretary Larry Gusy and Southern District Vice President Gerald Brendt.

A major theme of this year’s convention was the involvement of the society in youth programs, from early education through high school. Eight students from

across the state were honored for their outstanding achievements.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by Bobby Horton of Three on a String, one of the society’s newest members. Horton performed music from the Revolutionary time period.

To close the event, new officers for the year were presented, including: Harold Thornton of Crane Hill, president; Robert Alexander of Hartselle, vice president; Felton Mitchell of Opelika, secretary; and Charles Nuckolls of Birmingham, treasurer. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Some Enchanted Evening

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 27

SOCIAL/WEDDINGS

Ballerina Club Hosts 71st Ball in Celestial Setting

Photos special to the Journal

Ballerina Club hosted its 71st formal ball March 4 at the Country Club of Birmingham. Robert Logan created a celestial setting for the Some Enchanted Evening theme selected by ball co-chairs Olivia Alison and Renee Blalock.

Anne and Tom Lamkin were BCC member hosts for the occasion.

Twinkling stars and glittering replicas of the moon were combined with silver-toned ballerina cutouts to decorate the Country Club’s Terrace Room and Formal Dining Room. Lucite ballerina statuettes lit internly with miniature white lights greeted guests as they entered the party rooms and sparkled alongside the Just Friends Little Big Band as it played golden oldies for dancing.

Round tables for dining were overlaid with royal blue satin.

Centerpieces were tall Eiffel Tower vases topped off with blooming asparagus fern and a moon replica supporting a ballerina cut-out on pointe. Stars cascaded on silver beads from the vases – all reflected in large mirror mats set with votive candles and moon replicas.

This was some enchanted evening when no one saw a stranger.

From cocktail hour to last dance, spirits were high. Ball chairman Olivia Alison and Ballerina President Anne Lamkin welcomed the congenial gathering as everyone was seated for a dinner of green salad with mandarin oranges and strawberries, filet mignon, potato soufflé, asparagus and crème brulee.

Spotted in the crowd were Margaret and Bill Howell, Rusty and Don Kirkpatrick, Joanne and Art McConnell, Elouise Williams, Fay Hart, Janis Zeanah, Patricia and Cal Clark, Virginia and John Golightly, Judy and David Long, Olivia Alison and Buddy Palmer, Renee Blalock, Martha and Mallory Reeves, Jean Shanks, Nancy Walburn, Ginny and Bob Baxley, Carolyn and Whitfield King, Sahra and Roland Lee, and Barbara and Bill Morgan.

Also, Cheree and Eric Carlton, Leigh and Kevin Collins, Peggi Davis, Margaret Rushton, Jean andCurtis Liles, Connie Bishop and Charlie Bearden, Anne and Tom Lamkin, Carolyn and Richard Waguespack, Marlea and John Foster, Pat and Perry Grant, Carmen and Randall Morrow, Vicki and Don Smith, Julie and Jimmy Crocker, Beth and Rufus Elliott, Lou Lanier, and Nell and Sam Williams. ❖

Renee Blalock, Buddy Palmer and Olivia Alison.

Bring in the Band

Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Luncheon Salutes Outstanding Young Musicians Members of the Symphony Volunteer Council of the Alabama Symphonic Association and their guests gathered at the Vestavia Country Club on Feb. 16 for a luncheon benefiting the scholarship program of the Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Competition.

Since 1997, the Symphony Volunteer Council has awarded more than $133,000 in scholarships, including the Lois Pickard Summer Music Camp Scholarships of 2016, to outstanding young musicians.

The vice presidents of education, Jody Weston, Debbie Reid, Mimi Jackson and Linda Griggs, facilitated the 2017 Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Competition, which was held in January. Eighteen contestants performed for a chance to win awards for first and second place in three performance categories: piano, strings and brass/woodwinds/percussion.

Judges for this year’s competition were Chris Steele, piano; Samuel Nordlund, strings; Deanna Sirkot,

brass/woodwinds/percussion; and overall judge, Dr. Blake Richardson. Dr. Anthony Pattin served as accompanist at the competition.

The Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Luncheon Chair was Debra Gilbreath. Herb Rossmeisl designed and wrote the program for the luncheon. Past President Cheree Carlton decorated the tables with bouquets of pink, white and red roses.

Following a silent auction, Curt Long, president of the Alabama Symphonic Association, spoke to the luncheon guests about the importance of music education and the arts in a vibrant community.

Reid introduced a program presented by the first and second place 2017 scholarship winners: Luke Turner, first place, piano; Eleanor Lee, second place, piano; Hauen Kim, first place, strings (violin), Bethany Simon, second place, strings (violin); Lindsey Waggoner, first place, brass/woodwinds/percussion (flute); and K’Mya

Ross-Sartain

Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Lynn Ross of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Meagan Rebecca, to William Allen Sartain, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Allen Sartain of Decatur.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas James Ross of Orlando, Florida, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Dalbert Marsh of Enterprise.

Miss Ross is a 2009 graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and a 2013 cum laude graduate of Auburn University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in public relations and was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority.

Miss Ross was presented as a 2012 Poinsettia Debutante. She is a member of the Birmingham Zoo junior board and serves as its marketing chairman.

She is employed by BL Harbert International as the public relations|communications coordinator.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Ms. Glenda Brakefield Sartain and the late Mr. Joseph Allen Sartain, both of Decatur, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Mark Fred Ferlisi of Vestavia Hills.

Mr. Sartain is a 2008 graduate of Decatur High School and a 2012 graduate of Auburn University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in business and was a member of Kappa Alpha Order. Mr. Sartain is a member of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation junior board. He is employed by O’Neal Steel.

The wedding is planned for April 29 at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church.

Burrell, second place, brass/woodwinds/percussion (clarinet).

Jackson and Griggs presented the scholarship awards to the young performers. Dr. Richardson, music director of the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra and overall judge for the competition, recognized violinist Hauen Kim as the grand award winner; she will play with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra in the near future.

The luncheon guests enjoyed bidding on the silent auction items donated by area restaurants, businesses, arts organizations and SVC members before and after the luncheon and program. President Char Bonsack brought the event to a close with a preview of the 2017 Decorators’ ShowHouse, a Mountain Brook estate.

ShowHouse dates are April 29 through May 14.

For more information on this year’s ShowHouse, visit svcalabama.com. ❖

Estess-Blackmon

Mary Claire Estess and David Kenneth Blackmon were married Jan. 7 at Brookwood Baptist Church. The 6 p.m. ceremony was officiated by Dr. Jim Barnette.

A reception followed at The Club.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Elton Estess Jr. of Mountain Brook. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Glenn Elton Estess Sr. of Birmingham and the late Mr. Estess, the late Mrs. Mary Ann Blanton Barr and the late Mr. James Thomas Tatum Jr., both of Huntsville.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Edwin Blackmon of Birmingham. He is the grandson of Mrs. Leon Albert Blackmon of Birmingham and the late Mr. Blackmon, Mr. Thomas Randolph Uzzell Jr. of Birmingham and the late Mrs. Uzzell.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a Judd Waddell Chantilly fit and flare gown with Alencon appliquéd tulle overlay featuring an illusion neckline. She wore a Cathedral-length illusion veil with

Bates-Vinson

Mr. and Mrs. Walter William Bates of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Kathryn Brooke Bates, to Christopher Eric Vinson, son of Mrs. Edward Malvin Blanks and Mr. Don Carlos Vinson of Alexander City.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Eugene Casey Brock and the late Mr. Eugene Casey Brock of Montgomery and Mr. and Mrs. Emmett David Bates III and the late Allene Robertson Bates of

an Alencon lace border.

Sarah Ann Estess, sister of the bride, of Madison was the maid of honor and Elizabeth Eddleman Estess, sister-in-law of the bride, of Birmingham was the matron of honor.

Bridesmaids were Mary Jo Blackmon, sister of the groom, of Montgomery; Cady Minor Karras, Courtney Kyzar Parrish, Abigail Kathryn Rieger, Katherine Cain Sims and Anne DeWitt Thompson, all of Birmingham; Tabitha Wood Bice of Huntsville; and Maria Adell DiCarlo of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Evelyn Marelle Estess and Amelia Mayton Estess, nieces of the bride, of Birmingham were the flower girls.

Jonathan Taylor Blackmon, brother of the groom, of Birmingham was the best man. Groomsmen were John Grantham Estess, brother of the bride, Patrick Daniel Bonovitch and Edward Howard Whatley III of Birmingham; Paul Lynn Barber of Huntsville; Kenneth Sellers Jackson of Montgomery; Micah Christian Mills of St. Louis, Missouri; Stephen James Smith of Fayetteville, Georgia; and James Joel Butler of New York City.

Junior groomsman was David Grantham Estess, nephew of the bride, of Birmingham.

Scripture Readers were Eugenia Maxwell Thompson and Mary Riley Deer of Birmingham. Program Attendants were Mallory Elizabeth Wilson and Anna Kinsey Martin, cousins of the bride, of Birmingham.

Catherine Marie Martin of Birmingham was the soloist and the musicians were Katherine Sims on violin, Melinda Dressler on organ and Brent Reeves on piano.

After a honeymoon trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica, the couple live in Birmingham.

Birmingham.

Miss Bates is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School, a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Georgia Honors Program and a cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law. She was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and was presented at the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball and Heritage Ball. Miss Bates is employed

by Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP in Birmingham.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Dodd Jones of Lafayette and the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles Vinson Jr. of Roanoke.

Mr. Vinson is a graduate of Benjamin Russell High School, a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama and a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama School of Law. He was named to Omicron Delta Kappa and Mortar Board honor societies and was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Mr. Vinson is employed by Starnes Davis Florie LLP in Birmingham.

The wedding will be June 24 in Highlands, North Carolina.

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

BUSINESS

By Lee Davis As a youth growing up in inner-city Birmingham more than 30 years ago, Bobby Humphrey’s weekends in the fall offered a familiar routine.

On Friday nights, he would play running back for the Glenn High School Hawks in front of small crowds at Fair Park or Lawson Field. On Saturdays, he would sell soft drinks to capacity college football crowds at Legion Field.

From those modest beginnings in football and commerce, Humphrey would emerge to become a star in both fields. Starting with his days as an AllAmerican at the University of Alabama and a National Football League standout to his present position as vice president for marketing with Bryant Bank, Humphrey has never been too busy to stop and smell the proverbial roses.

“I can’t believe it’s been 32 years since I left home to go to Tuscaloosa,” said Humphrey, who turned 50 in October.

Humphrey went to Alabama as a highly recruited running back and produced decent numbers as a freshman under Coach Ray Perkins in 1985.

As a sophomore, Humphrey came into his own, as he earned the starting tailback spot in Perkins’ run-oriented pro-style offense. Humphrey rushed for more than 1,400 yards and 15 touchdowns, including 200-yard efforts against Tennessee, Mississippi State and Auburn. He became only the second runner in Crimson Tide history to exceed 1,000 yards on the ground in a single season, and he led Alabama to a 10-3 record.

“That was an exciting year,” Humphrey said.

“We had a great offensive line and they had a lot to do with me getting those yards. We were probably good enough to play for a national championship but we lost a couple of close games that we could have won.”

As Humphrey entered the 1987 season as one of America’s most celebrated college running backs, things were changing on the Alabama campus. Perkins departed the program to take over as head coach of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Bill Curry was brought in from Georgia Tech as the new Crimson Tide coach. The hire was controversial to many Alabama supporters, but Humphrey said he never saw a drop-off in the quality of coaching.

A Tailback Looks at 50 Ex-Tide Star Humphrey Is a Community Pillar

“Coach Perkins and Coach Curry were both great coaches, and they had different styles,” he explained. “Coach Perkins was very hands-on and was always wearing a headset and getting involved in the play calling. Coach Curry was more like a business CEO and delegated a lot to his assistants.

They both were successful and won a lot of games while coaching at Alabama.”

The season’s highpoint may have come in the second game, as Curry’s Tide rolled to a 24-13 win over defending national champion Penn State.

Humphrey rushed for 220 yards, including a 73-yard touchdown run that featured a spin-move that was replayed countless times on highlight shows across the nation. The acrobatic run even earned Humphrey a feature story in Sports Illustrated.

“I didn’t think much about (the spin move) at the time,” Humphrey said, laughing. “But when I saw it on film, it looked pretty good.”

Alabama struggled to a 7-5 record, despite Humphrey rushing for more than 1,200 yards and 11 scores. He earned All-American and All-Conference honors and was named Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Year.

Humphrey entered 1988 on virtually everyone’s short list of Heisman Trophy candidates. Those hopes were quickly derailed when Humphrey broke a foot in the season’s second game, against Vanderbilt.

He missed the remainder of the year and became eligible for the 1989 NFL Supplemental Draft. Humphrey was drafted in

Clearing the Path Women’s Fund is Making a Way for Single Moms to Break the Cycle of Poverty

By June Mathews As a mother, Jeanne Jackson knows firsthand what it’s like to want the best for her children.

As executive director of The Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham, Jackson works to help other mothers wanting the same thing for their children.

A recent study commissioned under Jackson’s lead- Jeanne Jackson ership called “Clearing the Path: Removing the Barriers to Sustainable Employment for

Working Single Mothers,” is the organization’s most recent step in moving a growing group of women toward better lives for their families.

Founded in 1996, The Women’s Fund has long sought to encourage the participation of women and girls in their communities. But a study conducted by the organization in 2012, called “Stepping Up for Women’s Economic Security,” revealed that a lack of economic security for women, single mothers in particular, was holding them back.

“Three issues came up,” said Jackson. “One, single mothers were the most likely women to be in poverty, and that number was rising; two, a woman needed more education than a man to get a higher-wage job; and three, the cost and availability of childcare was a big problem.”

the first round by the Denver Broncos.

His impact on the professional ranks was immediate. Humphrey rushed for more than 1,000 yards in his rookie season and led Denver to the Super Bowl. The Broncos were defeated by the San Francisco 49ers in the big game, but Humphrey was named the American Football Conference’s Rookie of the Year.

Humphrey credited the tough competition he faced in college for much of his success as a rookie.

“You have to remember that so many of the guys I played against in the SEC went on to the NFL as well,” Humphrey said. “So we were used to facing a very high level of competition at Alabama ... For that reason, the transition from college to professional football was much easier than the transition from high school to college.”

Humphrey followed his rookie season with another strong year in 1990, becoming the first Bronco to ever rush for more than 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons. He earned an invitation to the Pro Bowl.

After another season with Denver, Humphrey was traded to the Miami Dolphins. He completed his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills in 1995.

After retiring from football, Humphrey worked in sales and started his own construction company. He kept his hand in athletics by accepting the head coaching position for the Birmingham Steeldogs of the AF2, an arena football league.

Despite having no previous coaching

To help women combat these issues, The Women’s Fund began a program to form collaborative relationships with educational institutions, childcare centers and other entities that could help.

“We had phenomenal luck with that program and most of the women would go on to higher-wage jobs,” said Jackson. “But we realized last year that the same issues continued once they were in the workplace, so that became our next focus.”

And that’s where “Clearing the Path” came in.

The main data for the study, said Jackson, was drawn from interviews and surveys.

“We hired Marketry Inc. and Parker Consulting to interview women recommended by some of Birmingham’s largest social service agencies to find out what challenges women were facing,” said Jackson. “They talked with women who were working full time, had children and were making less than $30,000 a year. From that information, a survey was created.”

The surveys were then conducted in person by social workers and agencies, online by email, and via paper surveys

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

experience, Humphrey produced a winning record with the Steeldogs.

“Coaching the Steeldogs was a great opportunity to help guys out who were trying to get into the NFL,” he said. “A lot of those fellows deserved a second chance to achieve their dream, and I was happy to be there to help them.”

As Humphrey delved more deeply into the business world, he learned that many of the ingredients for success in athletics also applied to his new avocations.

“One thing you learn from playing sports is to never give up,” he said. It was the same thing in sales and in business. A lot of people told me ‘no’ at the beginning but that didn’t stop me. There’s no substitute for preparation and hard work and that applies in business as well as athletics.”

Humphrey and his wife, Barbara, have taught those lessons to their five children, including his son Marlon, who starred in the secondary at Alabama before making himself eligible for the 2017 NFL draft. All of the Humphrey children are star athletes.

“I’ve never actually coached my kids once they get to high school,” Humphrey said. “I leave that to the professional coaches. But I do help them with film work and help them study ways where they can improve.”

Although Marlon helped Alabama win the national championship in 2015, Bobby Humphrey looks at the excellence of the Crimson Tide program under Coach Nick Saban from a different perspective.

“Most of Coach Saban’s players graduate on time and many of them actually graduate early,” Humphrey said. “And he gets them ready for life after football. Coming from the viewpoint of a parent, that’s what’s important to me.”

Despite a busy life as a bank executive, Humphrey still finds time to pay his community rent. He is a popular speaker, telling his story of success in football and business to churches and civic clubs, and he coaches a track team on the weekends. And for the time being at least, Humphrey is content with his life.

“I’m thankful for all that I’ve been given,” he said. “I just want to keep on doing what I’ve got going on now.”

The eye-catching spin-moves and long touchdown runs may be in his rearview mirror, but Bobby Humphrey is always looking forward. ❖

distributed at organizations and events.

The process rendered 200 completed surveys.

The key findings revealed that 90 percent of the respondents worked two jobs or extra hours to make ends meet; 55 percent had lost a job or promotion because of time off related to children; and on average, single mothers earning less than $30,000 annually spent 39 percent of their income on childcare.

SILVER LININGS

But along with those not-so-pleasant results, the report revealed some encouraging news out of Birmingham’s corporate world.

“We’re realizing there are companies in Birmingham with large numbers of employees that have some good policies for working women,” said Jackson.

“And what we want to do is highlight these companies for what they’re doing.

The idea is that we set some nice models in the community and hope other companies will follow suit.”

And now that the conversation has begun, The Women’s Fund wants to keep it going. Plans are underway for a panel discussion among representatives

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

28 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

from large employers in and around Birmingham about workplace policies pertaining to women. The Clearing the Path: Women, Workplace and the Economy event will take place May 12, 7:30 to 9:00 a.m., at the Florentine in downtown Birmingham.

It will feature a conversation between Foundation President and CEO Teresa Younger and Birmingham Civil Rights Institute President and CEO Andrea Taylor. A panel discussion will follow.

The panel will be made up of senior executives, including Alesia Jones, chief human resources officer at UAB; Scott Adams, chief administrative officer at Protective Life; and Jenna Bedsole, labor and employment attorney with Baker Donelson.

Tickets are $50. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Jacob Smith at 326-4454.

For more information, about the Women’s Fund, visit womensfundbirmingham.org.

The Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham serves Blount, Walker, St. Clair Jefferson and Shelby counties. ❖

Photo special to the Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Eagle Solar and Light workers install a multi-paneled solar array at Altamont School.

A Bright Idea

Eagle Solar Teams up With Altamont to Create Birmingham’s First Solar-Powered School

By Emily Williams Altamont School is literally soaking up the sun.

This month, Eagle Solar and Light completed the installation of a multipaneled solar array at the school, effectively creating Birmingham’s first solar-powered school.

“The solar array has just come online, so it’s too early to cite specific figures, but we expect to decrease our power bills while increasing our reliance on clean energy,” said Julie Beckwith, Altamont’s director of communications and marketing.

“Altamont trustee Bruce Denson of Cobbs Allen suggested that Altamont explore solar energy as a financial benefit and environmental stewardship opportunity for the school,” Beckwith said.

With Eagle Solar and Light’s president, Sam Yates, being a long-time friend of the school through family and

philanthropy, the school connected with the company as the administration delved deeper into its renewable energy options.

“Working with Eagle Solar has been an incredibly positive experience,” Beckwith said. “Sam was a constant presence on campus during construction of the array and has flawlessly handled every aspect of bringing the array online. He made it all look easy!”

According to Yates, the Altamont installation will generate approximately 22,110 kilowatt-hours a year, accounting for one-fifth of the school’s daytime energy.

Along with generating power, the array presents the opportunity to educate the Altamont community on renewable energy.

Education is one of the key ingredients of sales for Yates and his Eagle Solar and Light crew.

“As Alabama ranks in the bottom 2 percent of the nation for installed solar,

it’s not on the forefront of everyone’s thoughts, as you don’t see much of it, think about it, nor talk about it,” Yates said. “In general, everyone is very interested in solar energy as a renewable resource and ask great questions, so it’s an educational process that takes time.”

Paired with the solar array, Altamont is celebrating an energy-conscious year from an educational standpoint.

Each year, the school recognizes a Global Initiative theme that appears across the school’s curriculum throughout the school year. This year’s theme is Energy Resources and Climate Change. As the annual themes rotate, a number of the students will revisit climate change and energy resources in the 2022-2023 school year and can compare it to their present-day studies.

Eagle Solar and Light plans to have a hand in helping articulate concepts within this theme to the students. One method, Yates noted, will involve the construction of a learning kiosk that will educate students about renewable energy as well as the inner workings of the school’s solar array.

As with all of the company’s installations, the Altamont array is equipped with an energy generation monitor that allows the buyer to track, in real time, the amount of energy their system is generating.

Yates has found the feature to be a great way to help buyers feel instant gratification because they can access the monitor with any smart device.

“We are also now installing energy monitors that depict both real time consumption and solar generation,” Yates said. “This information is an incredible resource for allowing consumers to identify wasteful energy sources and become more energy efficient.”

In an effort to allow the entire Altamont community access to the

AIA Birmingham Hosts Living Small Exhibit

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 29

BUSINESS

The micro-living trend made its way to Birmingham during Design Week Birmingham, March 9.

Small homes created by local architects were opened for touring at the Alabama Center for Architecture, featuring small homes outfitted with space-saving designs.

According to the Alabama Institute of Architecture, the micro-living trend is one of the architectural world’s answers to the challenge of providing suitable housing in cities with growing populations.

An opening lecture was held featuring Garret Reynolds, an architect with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson in Seattle, Washington. His presentation discussed designing micro-living spaces and his research on the subjects, which took him from New York City to Copenhagen, Stockholm, Seoul and Tokyo.

The exhibition event is hosted by the American Institute of Architects in Birmingham, the Alabama Center for Architecture and the Birmingham Association of Realtors, and it is sponsored by Alagasco and Clayton Homes.

The indoor exhibition will be open to the public through March 31 at the Alabama Center for Architecture.

Exhibition hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

David Blackmon, AIA, architect and President, Alabama Center for For more information, visit aiabham.

Architecture in the kitchen, above, of the Tiny House Exhibit designed by org. ❖ Birmingham architect Jeff Dungan. Top, Blackmon giving a tour of the house.

solar array’s monitor, the company plans to install a learning kiosk to display the data.

“In general it will be a ‘smart’ flat screen TV, driven by a programmable computer that depicts both real time and historic energy generation, a web cam that depicts the solar array, an illustration on how solar works, perhaps a statement from the school on renewable energy, etc.,” Yates said.

“Think of it as a rotating powerpoint display that can be updated at any time.”

Eagle Solar also will be directly involved in helping educate students on a variety of topics.

Members of the company help out in various classrooms around the city as needed with STEM classes, renewable energy workshops and participatory teaching.

According to Beckwith, Yates has jumped in on the educating while the administration decides where to place the learning kiosk.

“He has also consistently supported the educational aspect of having the array at our school, whether teaching a group of sixth-grade students about solar power or coordinating the construction of a kiosk that will show real-time energy use,” she said. ❖

NEED TO REPLACE YOUR PLANTS AFTER DROUGHT?

2 YEAR PL ANT GUARANTEE!

SOME RESTRICTIO NS MAY APPLY

TRAVEL

30 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Spring Break Close to Home

If for a minute you feel a twinge of envy that your friends are packing to go to faraway places during spring break, don’t despair.

There are plenty of interesting places closer to home to keep you and your family entertained.

“There is a joke among tourism professionals called ‘the inverse law,’ which means the closer you are to an attraction, the less likely you are to visit,” Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell said.

“With the early spring central Alabama is experiencing, spring break is the perfect time to visit two of the best gardens in the state,” he observed. “Aldridge Gardens and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are both world-class, and they are in our back yards.”

Spring also is the best time to spend a Saturday morning at the Pepper Place market in Birmingham, he said. There you’ll find fresh local produce along with locally made products and arts and crafts for sale.

And he said he’s looking forward to trying out the new Pizitz Food Hall in downtown Birmingham, which has stalls with food from across the country and the world.

“People who haven’t attended a play in Montgomery at the Shakespeare Festival in a few years should look at the current schedule,” Sentell said. “There’s a great variety of entertainment just 90 minutes down the road.”

If you have kids to entertain over their school break, try the McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham or drive to Huntsville to the U.S. Space & Rocker Center.

Sentell also mentioned the expanded National Park Service Visitor Center a block from the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, where civil rights marchers were beaten by police in what later became known as Bloody Sunday.

“Take your kids for a walk across (the bridge),” recommended Sentell, who has been the state’s tourism director since 2003. “They’ll never forget it.”

VARIETY IS THE SPICE …

There’s lots more to do across the state no matter what you’re in the mood for. So take a

Photo by Lynn Grisard Fullman

By Lynn Grisard Fullman

Alabama Offers Plenty of Hometown and Day Trip Options for Vacationing Families

Chaney Rohling, a student at Vestavia Hills Elementary-East, approaches Helen Keller’s home, Ivy Green, in Tuscumbia.

look at your options, gas up, head out – and be sure to take plenty of photos.

• Each generation revels in discovering Ivy Green, birthplace and home of Helen Keller, who at a young age was rendered blind and deaf yet went on to become a legendary symbol of overcoming hardship. Built in Tuscumbia in 1820 by Helen’s grandfather, the home each summer hosts an outdoor drama focused on how she overcame obstacles. The water pump where learning began for the once-unruly child is a sobering part of the tour.

• Spring Family Days are planned for March 27-31 at the 135-acre Landmark Park on the outskirts of Dothan, which preserves the area’s agricultural history. Among the places to tour are a planetarium, 1890s farmstead, wildlife exhibits, interpretive center, nature trails and picnic area.

• Prompted by hit recordings beginning in the early 1970s by artists such as Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, Paul Simon, the

Osmonds, Etta James and Paul Anka, the Shoals area in north Alabama was nicknamed the “Hit Recording Capital of the World.” Following years of closure, for the first time since 1978 the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio offers both tours and recording sessions. The studio draws artists from across the world who are looking for the famed “Muscle Shoals sound.” Visitors may step into an isolation booth and belt out a few notes of their own.

• Moundville Archaeological Park, not far from Tuscaloosa, showcases what once was the Southeast’s largest and most powerful Native American political and religious center.

Exhibits, dioramas and video bring to life the early dwellers’ history and mystery.

• Florence now has its own Native American museum. At the $1.76 million Florence Indian Mound Museum, half of the structure resembles a cave being excavated by archaeologists.

The museum faces a 2,000-year-old mound once used for ceremonies.

Exploring in the ‘Ham People travel hundreds of miles to explore Birmingham, which has a wealth of places to visit, to learn and to frolic.

Lucky you, these attractions are mere minutes from your home. Here are a few suggestions: • With its scores of creatures and critters, the Birmingham Zoo always is a favorite. Even better, spring break activities, slated for March 25 through April 2, include favorites such as Predator Zone, Children’s Zoo Splash Pads and Schaeffer Eye Center Wildlife Shows.

• With a focus on springtime,

McWane Science Center through April 15 is offering deals and what it describes as “awesome educational programming.” For starters, on Mondays you can buy combo tickets for $10. A traveling exhibit, Going Places, offers the chance to pilot an airship, ride a hovercraft or control city traffic, all while focusing on the technology of travel. A worldwide celebration, Brain Awareness Week, takes place March 26 through March 31 and brings together scientists, families, schools and communities. Under supervision of UAB staff and graduate students, visitors may dissect a sheep brain or cow eyeball and take part in interactive activities that detail

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Lynn Grisard Fullman

An award-winning writer based in Vestavia Hills, Lynn Grisard Fullman has contributed to numerous newspapers, magazines and blogs.

She is the author of six books, including several on travel in Alabama.

how the senses work. Check the center’s website to learn about special themes slated for the week.

• With about 1,500 acres along the Red Mountain ridge, Red Mountain Park has more than 15 miles of walking, hiking and mountain biking trails, two city overlooks, a six-acre off-leash dog park and adventures such as the Vulcan Materials Zip Trip, which is a 90-minute zip-line adventure; the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest, which is 20 rope and cable treetop challenges; an 80-foot climbing/rappelling tower and a 1,000-foot Mega Zip. Intriguing destination sites such as the historic Redding Hoist House, three treehouse views and glimpses of iron ore mine entrances, add to the fun.

With its scores of creatures and critters, the Birmingham Zoo always is a favorite.

The Birmingham Area is Full of Places to Go and Things to Do

• Shaped like a vessel headed to sea, the newly re-opened GulfQuest National Maritime Museum is the centerpiece of Mobile Landing, the city’s new downtown waterfront development. Housing the museum’s exhibits, a replica of a full-sized container ship – with containers stacked high and the vibration of engines – focuses on the development of containerization, a revolutionary idea pioneered in the 1950s by Malcom McLean, owner of Waterman Steamship Corporation in Mobile.

• Opened last summer, Gulf Coast Ducks provides boat tours of the Mobile River, downtown Mobile, Mobile Bay and Battleship Park.

• Five Rivers Delta Center rents kayaks and canoes and offers a pontoon delta safari, with Wild Native Delta Safaris, that focuses on marsh, cypress and tupelo gum swamps, alligators and wildlife.

• Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center and IMAX Theater in Mobile has about 150 hands-on science adventures, including the nation’s most advanced health exhibit.

• USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park holds dramatic exhibits telling stories of heroism and courage in the Armed Forces.

Better yet, you can roam throughout a real battleship that sits along Mobile Bay. • Recently ranked by trivago as one of the Best Value Cities significant to AfricanAmerican history, Montgomery is home to the Rosa Parks Library and Museum. Also here is the world’s only museum dedicated to F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. Housed on the first floor of a two-story clapboard and brick house where the flamboyant couple lived from 1931 to 1932, the home is where he worked on “Tender is the Night” and she began her only novel.

For more information on things to see and do in Alabama, contact the Alabama Tourism Department: tourism.alabama.gov, 800-ALABAMA (800-252-2262) or info@tourism.alabama.gov.

• Need more hiking trails? Head east to Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, where trails wind, exhibits intrigue and views steal your breath.

While you’re this close, plan to have lunch at the Irondale Café where, of course, you must have the fried green tomatoes.

• Railroad Park, which has been called “Birmingham’s living room,” is a great place to picnic or toss a Frisbee, and the 250-acre Moss Rock Preserve in Hoover is a great place for hiking and rock climbing.

• With a collection of more than 27,000 works representing cultures around the world, the Birmingham Museum of Art includes a sculpture garden, American and Asian art collections and a vast collection of Wedgwood. The gift shop always has fun things, too.

• Adjacent to the Birmingham Zoo, the Birmingham Botanical

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 31

TRAVEL

Nashville in a Nutshell

Music City Could Be Your Go-To for Last-Minute Family Fun

By Ginny Luckie

The Ryman Auditorium was the original home of the Grand Ole Opry and is known as the mother church of country music.

If you are in need of a last-minute family spring break trip, Nashville could be your answer.

This destination is just a three hour drive north of Birmingham and a straight shot up Interstate 65.

Music City is convenient, easy and has a lot more to offer than just country crooning. Nashville has activities and sightseeing that kids of all ages can enjoy.

TO STAY

When in Nashville, there are certain to do’s that must be checked off the list. Top of the list? Take a tour of the Ryman Auditorium. It was the original Grand Ole Opry and is known as the mother church of country music. If you can, see a show while you’re there. The church pews, acoustics and stained glass windows make it one of the best venues in the country for live music.

Other worthwhile museum tours include the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash museum. While downtown, walk Broadway and enjoy the sights and sounds of the honky-tonks.

With live music coming from every direction, who doesn’t love to window shopping for cowboy boots Gardens includes 67 acres with flowers, outdoor sculptures, a Japanese garden with teahouse, and the possibility of bird sightings.

• Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark is a great place to explore. On about 32 acres, the landmarks is the site of blast furnaces where iron was made for almost a century. Sloss is the country’s only 20th century blast furnace being preserved and interpreted as a museum.

• The world’s largest cast-iron statue, Vulcan, designed by Italian artist Giuseppe Moretti and cast from local iron in 1904, stands atop Red Mountain. You likely pass it often, but this spring break take a closer look at what is considered one of the country’s most memorable works of civic art.

• Recently named a National Monument, the Birmingham Civil Rights District provides a stark look

and hats?

To top off an evening downtown, go to an NHL Nashville Predator’s game. The fast-paced energy of the game and enthusiasm from the fans in the Bridgestone arena make for a memorable hockey game. Be sure to wear yellow to support the Preds.

Soon the whole family will cheer for Smashville.

Try the Hop On, Hop Off bus tour. It is convenient because you can come and go as you please and see whichever destinations you prefer. The Adventure Science Museum is fun for kids and a wonderful activity on a rainy day.

In the case of sunshine and warm weather, rent bikes along the Greenway. The Nashville Greenway offers trails along the Cumberland river, with parks and playgrounds on the route. Stay outside and take a hike at any Edwin or Percy Warner parks. Horse riding is available at Percy Warner, if you have any equestrian lovers in the family.

Radnor Lake is beautiful for the outdoors lover, as well. The lake is meant for wildlife observation and is protected under the State Preservation Act of 1971.

Not far from the parks and lake lies the Belle Meade Plantation. John Harding called his farm, which was built in the 1800s, beautiful meadow.

at the history of America’s Civil Rights Movement. Don’t miss monuments in Kelly Ingram Park, a gathering place for demonstrations in the early ’60s. A must-see is the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, adjacent to the park and alongside the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, where four girls were killed in a 1963 bombing.

• One of the country’s largest motorsports museums, Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, east of Birmingham, focuses on racing history with a fascinating collection of motorcycles and vehicles.

For more information on area attractions and special events, contact the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau at inbirmingham.com or 458-8000.

Also, call before going as most cityoperated attractions are closed on Mondays. ❖

Enjoy lunch on the rooftop of Acme. With views of the Cumberland River and the Titan’s playground, Nissan Stadium, Acme is a four-story restaurant to relax and relish the outdoors, live music and the city. Try the local yokel or the hot chicken sandwich.

For an upscale dinner on Broadway, try Merchant’s restaurant.

It’s been around since 1892 and is a hot spot for dinner. Try to make a reservation on OpenTable to skip the wait.

Other great places to check out include: 12 South and Reese Witherspoon’s store, Draper James, next door. For sweet treats, check out Las Paletas popsicles, cupcakes from the Sprinkles ATM or Jeni’s ice cream, made with seasonal, high-quality, natural ingredients that will make you want to invest in a franchise.

A top tourist spot is the Pancake Pantry in Hillsboro Village, but beware of the long lines on the weekends. A fun pizza joint, Desano’s, is kidfriendly and mom and dad can even BYOB. Go to Taco Mamacita, Bar Taco and Taqueria Del Sol for Mexican. For a delectable splurge, try any MStreet restaurant such as Virago, Whiskey Kitchen, Saint Anejo, Tavern and Kayne Prime.

Ginny’s Tip: Nashville is famous for its hot chicken, and while Birmingham does have a Hattie B’s, it is not the same as the original location. But to venture off the beaten bath, visit Prince’s Hot Chicken. It’s been around longer than Hattie B’s, and is Nashville’s not-so-best-kept secret.

Enjoy Nashville and make time for what interests you and your family the most. Happy last-minute planning! ❖

No Cost, No Kidding

Many Attractions Charge No Admission Fee

Scores of Alabama sites do not charge admission, which can make for an affordable outing. Here are a few suggestions: • Alabama’s beaches, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach • Birmingham Museum of Art • Birmingham Botanical Gardens Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, Birmingham • MOOseum, Montgomery • Alabama’s State Capitol, Montgomery • First White House of the Confederacy, Montgomery • Moss Rock Preserve, Hoover • Phoenix Fire Museum, Mobile • Cook’s Natural Science Museum, Decatur • Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, Morgan County • Coon Dog Cemetery, Colbert County

Photo by Lynn Grisard Fullman

TO DO

TO EAT

Photo special to the Journal

When booking the trip, be mindful of the area of town you prefer to stay in. There are great options that will fit any price point. If the heart of downtown floats your boat, check out the Renaissance hotel or the new Westin, which has a rooftop pool.

On the more expensive side, the Thompson Hotel in the Gulch offers an eclectic vibe. Once the kids are put to bed, visit the rooftop bar L.A. Jackson for scenic views of the city and chic cocktails. The hotel’s restaurant, the Marsh House, also is home to a James Beard award-winning chef.

More budget-friendly options include the Hampton and Holiday Inns along West End, as well as Homewood Suites, which are all straight shots to downtown and close to the Vanderbilt Commodore’s football stadium.

If you have no shame in your tourist game, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is the best place. It will keep kids entertained and amazed with the massive atriums, indoor canal rides and restaurants that make you feel like you’re outside. The Gaylord Opryland sits next door to the current Grand Ole Opry, which is a must-see.

Ginny’s Tip: For a more relaxed stay, try booking a home on AirBnB in a neighborhood of your preference. Check out these neighborhoods: 12 South, Germantown, Sylvan Park and East Nashville.

Tour the plantation to learn more about its history.

For the history buff in the family, stop by Franklin on the way out of town. Just 25 miles south of Nashville, Franklin offers a lot of civil war battle sites to check out.

Also, visit the historic downtown square; it is not only charming, but perfect for shopping and eating.

Ginny’s Tip: Parking can get expensive, so if you’re planning to spend the entire day downtown, consider a rideshare option such as Uber or Lyft.

Rehab Reality

by byJeff JeffButler (Bonzo)

“Sprung” Break Look, I get it. It’s a wellearned opportunity to cut loose with hundreds of their closest friends. It’s not like your college age sons and daughters act like that all year round.

What’s the problem?

The problem is that sometimes they do act like that all year round. Heck. I was the poster child of over indulgence and higher learning. If I could have majored in partying, I would have gotten a Doctorate faster than some get an Associate’s degree. I also could have earned a B.S. in well.... BSing.

I know my mom used to berate herself for not noticing the way my life was going.

Honestly, she never had a chance. I was smooth. All addicts and alcoholics are. The fact that we believe what we’re saying makes it all that much harder for ya’ll to doubt or question us. And you haven’t seen righteous indignation until you accuse us of what we are, in fact, doing.

So what does this mean to you, the parent? College age kids experiment. I’m also saying times are different. As a parent, be more aware... you might want to smell and taste the liquid they have in a container. Binge drinking is a huge problem on campuses.

Drugs are a lot scarier and easier to access. The police are a lot less tolerant and forgiving now than they were when I was in school. Finally, thanks to the internet and social media, your children’s transgressions are never really in the past.

If you have questions call us.

Coincidentally, my mother will be answering your call and she loves to share my stories.

I hope you don’t need us, but if you do, don’t hesitate.

850-687-6831

www.bayshoreretreat.com Destin, FL Licensed & court approved

32 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

SCHOOL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

POSITIVELY FUN

MBHS Student Gains National Recognition for Reviving School’s Circle of Friends

By Emily Williams Junior year has been a bit of a juggling act for Mountain Brook High School student Elizabeth “Ellie” Lipp.

Her laundry list of commitments includes her schoolwork, competitive Irish dancing, college searching, SAT/ ACT test-taking, volunteering with the YWCA’s social justice program and maintaining membership with the school’s Heritage Panel, the Latin Club and Ambassadors program.

Though each commitment gets her

attention, Lipp admitted that she’s always thinking about her favorite part of the day: her time co-presiding over the Circle of Friends club.

“The nice thing is, every day I get to spend time with these friends who are so positive and fun,” Lipp said.

Circle of Friends is a club that seeks to foster friendships among members of the general student body and students with special needs.

When Lipp first joined during her sophomore year, there were only 58 members.

“It was a dying club. I fought endlessly to revive interest from the student body,” Lipp said.

Currently, the club has 142 members and serves 15 students with special needs. In addition to spending time and creating friendships during school hours, Lipp and her fellow

Journal photo by Emily Williams

Circle of Friends is a club that seeks to foster friendships among members of the general student body and students with special needs.

When Ellie Lipp first joined Circle of Friends during her sophomore year, there were only 58 members. Currently, the club has 142 members and serves 15 students with special needs.

club members take their business beyond MBHS walls by hosting club outings such as bowling nights and ice cream socials and, her personal favorite, attending the Special Olympics.

“Each year, we get to go to the Special Olympics,” she said. “We cheer on our friends with special needs and everyone gets a ribbon. It’s just a day filled with fun and positivity.”

To breathe new life into Circle of Friends, Lipp learned a lot about fundraising. The club’s headlining event,

Circle of Friends Celebration Week, was held last month and relied on the success of the club members’ solicitation skills.

“It’s an appreciation week for special education students, the faculty and their families,” Lipp said. “We had to get outside fundraising from businesses, and we had to find people that would donate all of the lunches and breakfasts.”

Last year’s event is what sparked the rebirth of the club, leading to monthly breakfast socials and a buddy program that pairs students.

Though it took some hard work to revive, Lipp said the one-hour period that is devoted to the club each school day has become a stress reliever.

Her involvement in the club also drew the attention of the 2017 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a national program that recognizes the top youth volunteers in each state.

As one of two honorees representing the state of Alabama, Lipp will travel to Washington, D.C., in May for a four-day event hosted by the program. While she is there, she has

the chance to be named one of the top 10 honorees in the nation.

Whether she makes it to the top or not, her time with Circle of Friends has never been about recognition.

Being no stranger to feeling different, Lipp sees a connection between her desire to work with special needs students and her experience moving from Pennsylvania to Mountain Brook when she was 10 years old.

“It was a bit of a culture shock. At first, I couldn’t really understand what people were saying. I remember on the first day of school, my teacher said ‘put your books up,’ and I had no idea what she meant because I had only ever heard ‘put your books away,’” she said.

Growing up with family living in the North and her day-to-day life in the South, Lipp said, gave her a better sense of how to relate to people’s differences.

“I really think it helped develop my communication and listening skills,” she said. “You shouldn’t be listening to someone for the sake of saying what you want to say, you should listen for the sake of the reply,” she said.

Helping foster a sense of respect for other’s differences has been a theme throughout her life and is shaping the way she views her future through and beyond her college career.

“My favorite subject is biology,” she said. “I want to go into genetics or maybe some kind of occupational therapy. I’m also interested in getting into public policy.”

Lipp hopes that involvement with Circle of Friends will give each member a respect for each other’s differences that rivals her own.

“Each individual has their own opinion and their own voice,” she said. “Even if they can’t communicate it easily, it’s worth listening to.” ❖

From left: Liam Falconer, Willa Rose Akins and Emma Burke.

Hilltop Represents at UAB Science and Engineering Fair

Student winners from the Hilltop Montessori School Science Fair were chosen to represent their school at the UAB-CORD Central Alabama Regional Science and Engineering Fair on March 4, held at the UAB Recreation Center.

Hilltop fifth-grader Willa Rose Akins won first place in the behavioral and social sciences division for her project, Bunny Bias, Chinchilla Choices, and will be going on to compete in the finals in Huntsville on April 6-7. Liam Falconer, seventh grade, won second place in the engineering division and will also compete in Huntsville at the state competition.

In addition, Emma Burke, eighth grade, received an award for outstanding achievement in the psychology division.

Parishioners of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Homewood united to assemble 48,000 meals during a meal-packing event Feb. 26.

The assembly hall of the OLS Family Life Center was turned into a food packing assembly line for Rise Against Hunger, formerly known as Stop Hunger Now. One shift was manned by the eighth-graders as a Confirmation service project.

A second shift was handled by parishioners at large, and the third was operated by middle school and high school youth group members and their families.

“It’s Christianity in action,” said parishioner Madonna Nichols. “It’s not just words, it’s action, taking your time to be involved in it. We have five kids and we’ve all done it as a family before.”

The meals contained soy, dehydrated vegetables, rice and vitamins. Most Rise Against Hunger meals go overseas to school feeding programs.

Photo special to the Journal

Photo special to the Journal

OLS Unites to Rise Against Hunger

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church middle school and high school youth groups take part in the Rise Against Hunger service project at the church.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 33

SCHOOL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Photos special to the Journal

Local Student Named National Geographic State Bee Semifinalist

VHHS Relay for Life Hosts Costumed Breakfast The Relay for Life of Vestavia Hills High School club hosted its first Princesses and Superhero breakfast March 4.

High school students dressed up as some of their favorite childhood superheroes and princesses and gave

Nicolas Henostroza, an eighth-grader at Liberty Park Middle School, is one of the semifinalists eligible to compete in the 2017 Alabama National Geographic State Bee. The contest will be held at Samford University on March 31.

Nicolas Henostroza This is the second level

of the competition, which includes fourth- through eighth-grade students throughout the state. To reach this point in the competition, Henostroza took a qualifying test and was invited to take part in the competition as one of the 100 top-scoring students in the state.

The test includes questions such as: The North Platte and South Platte Rivers meet in which state – New Mexico or Nebraska?

What is a term for an underground layer of rock that holds groundwater – an arroyo or an aquifer?

Following the state bee, the winner will receive $100, a copy of “National Geographic Concise Atlas of the World, 4th Edition” and a trip to Washington, D.C., to represent the state in the national championship, May 14-17.

out hugs and high-fives to costumed youngsters.

More than 100 participants from surrounding areas supported the inaugural event in support of Vestavia’s Relay for Life, which will be held April 22. Funds benefit the club’s overall fundraising goal for 2017 of $250,000.

Spartans Soccer Teams Run for a Good Cause

From left: Kristen Greenwood, Lily Jacks, Sally Bae, Zoe Jacks, Chloe Bloodworth, Olivia Porrill, Abigail van Alstyne, Lydia Bloodworth, Anne Mitchell, Marion Walker, Susan Nettles Han, Leigh King Forstman and Ann Gathings.

GirlSpring Teams up for Habitat for Humanity Members of GirlSpring’s teen leadership group, Springboarders, teamed up with members of the Women Lawyers Section of the Birmingham Bar Association on Feb. 4 to help with a Habitat for Humanity house-building project.

The group spent half of a day preparing the yard of a house that will be occupied by a single mother and her three children. The work included

planting grass in the front and back yards and laying out plants for the landscape design.

According to GirlSpring Executive Director Kristen Greenwood, the two groups had been thinking of ways to work together for some time and the Habitat for Humanity project proved to be a perfect fit. The importance of giving back to the community, especially to women and children, is a

goal of both organizations.

“Having strong female role models, like the women from the Birmingham Bar Association, is important to GirlSpring and to our future generation of women leaders,” Greenwood said.

“Working side by side was a wonderful opportunity for strong females from different generations to learn from each other, and the two groups hope to work together again.”

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OAK MOUNTAIN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ENJOY HOT DOGS, HAMBURGERS & AN EGG GRAB

The Mountain Brook High School girls soccer team participated as Bell Runners in this year’s Regions Bank Superheroes 5k. The girls raised money and awareness for The Bell Center’s early prevention programs, which supports young children with disabilities and other difficulties. Front row, from left: Caroline Monson, Katie Culhane, Holly Brown, Elaine Russell, Catherine Sims and Ella Nichols. Back: Addison Tierney, Emma Culhane, Kennedy Martin, CeCe Sims, Elizabeth Gillespy, Amelia Baker and Hannah Bartels.

34 • Thursday, March 23, 2017

SPORTS

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

The Vestavia Hills 9U and 10U girls basketball teams each won state titles March 12 at the 2017 ARPA State Basketball Tournament in Gadsden.

The 10U girls, above, won their title with a score of 27-24 over Limestone County. The team includes Jill Gaylard, Savannah Grayson, Lindsay Green, Braeden Krablin, Laura McGee, Jule McMillan, Lola McMillan, Ally Perry, Campbell Price, Arden Warner, and coaches Wes Gaylard, French McMillan and Eric Warner.

The 9U team, right, won with a score of 21-12 over Arab. The team includes Holland Abernathy, Rosemary Gill, Sarah Gordon, Ashley Hawley, Grayson Hudgens, Jordan Madsen, Ava Robinson, Claire Spooner, and coaches Nick Madsen and Jason Robinson.

Spain Park Downs Mountain Brook In a Close Contest

Spain Park girls defeated Mountain Brook 3-2 last week with a score on a direct kick with just a few seconds left in the contest. See photos at otmjsports.com

Spartans JV Soccer Wins Tournament

The Mountain Brook High School boys junior varsity soccer team recently won the 12th Annual Sylacauga JV Soccer Challenge.

The championship game went into penalty kicks, with the team winning the game 3-2.

Photo special to the Journal

Mountain Brook Legion Crowned OTM Tournament Champions

Finishing off a strong season, the Mountain Brook Legion fourth-grade basketball team was crowned fourth-grade season tournament champions March 7.

The fourth-grade boys finished the end of the season tournament strong by outscoring opponents 156119 points. Coach Tobias Darden led the team to a five-game winning streak.

The team consists of Bradyn Brobst, Harrison Brown, John Morris, Reed Nelson, Jackson Skinner, Beckett Smith, Reed Smith, Webb Walker and Will Woodke.

Send sports news to: mwald@otmj.com

Annual 5K Raises Awareness for Disease

Mountain Brook Jumper Signs with Millsaps College

Mountain Brook High School senior Eleanor Swagler, with her parents Rick and Susan Swagler, announced that she has committed to run track at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. She will compete in the high jump field event for the Majors under the direction of track and field head coach Andy Till and assistant coach and jumps coach Mike Huseth. Swagler has been on Mountain Brook’s varsity track and field team since eighth grade, running for former head coach Greg Echols and current head coach Michael McGovern. Her jumps coach is Kirk McClendon. She placed second in the 2017 State Indoor 7A high jump event, having placed third the previous year and fourth in the 2016 State Outdoor meet. Swagler holds the MBHS indoor school record for girls’ pentathlon. She plans to study early childhood education at Millsaps and pursue a coaching certificate. ❖

The Alabama Gluten Free and Celiac Community recently held its sixth annual Gluten Free is Good for Me 5K to raise awareness for celiac disease on Feb. 25 at Hoover’s Veteran’s Park.

The top runners in the race were Todd Maple, first; Andrea Austin, second (below); and Bella Maple, third. Following the awards ceremony, attendees were treated to a gluten-free family brunch.

The event included a one-mile fun run in addition to the 5K race. ❖

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Photos special to the Journal

Vestavia Hills Girls Basketball Wins Big in ARPA State Tournament

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 23, 2017 • 35

SPORTS

Photo special to the Journal

Journal photo by Marin Gentry

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Eboni Williams of Hoover, 2016-17 Co-Player of the Year; coach Mike Chase of Spain Park, 2016-17 Coach of the Year; and Claire Holt, 2016-17 Co-Player of the Year.

Homewood Girls Win Metro South Championship

Homewood Middle School’s eighth-grade girls basketball team won the 2016-17 Metro South Tournament Championship.

The Lady Patriots played three games in the tournament, defeating Oak Mountain, Berry and Pizitz.

“We had a very daunting task in the championship game because we faced Pizitz, a team we had already beaten twice in the regular season. But the girls stepped up to the challenge and came away with the championship title,”

BRAASCH, From page 36

“Being a head coach just didn’t fit me,” he explained. “I wanted to stay at Vestavia. It fit me to be the defensive coordinator there and then help with basketball when football ended.

It just never occurred to me to go somewhere else.”

Now Peter Braasch has gone to another place where he belongs – the Alabama High School Hall of Fame.

MADAME INTENSITY…

In last week’s column we listed some of the highlights of the basketball state finals, where three Over the Mountain teams – Mountain Brook boys, Hoover girls and Homewood girls – claimed state championships.

In the deadline rush, we omitted one important category: Most Intense Player. There were many strong candidates, but the one who stood out was Lady Patriot guard Hannah Barber.

Barber didn’t have her best game statistically in Homewood’s 52-49 win over Hazel Green in the Class 6A finals, but nobody plays harder for 32 minutes than the University of Alabama-bound star.

FULLER IS LOW MEDALIST AT JOHNSON TOURNAMENT…

Mountain Brook’s Ben Fuller shot consecutive rounds of 74-74 to win low medalist honors at the prestigious Bradley Johnson Memorial Tournament last week at Greystone’s Legacy Course.

His 148 total defeated St. Paul’s Will McFadden by one stroke.

said head coach Christi Martin. “We are excited about the future of Homewood girls’ basketball.”

The Lady Patriots had an overall record of 19-3 for the year. They lost to Helena in a tip-off tournament, lost by one in overtime to Mountain Brook and lost to Berry by one on a last-second three-point shot.

“We had a lot of tears after those two games, and I believe those back-to-back losses actually fueled the girls the rest of the season,” Martin said. ❖

Fuller’s strong showing led the Spartans to a third-place finish in the event, with a collective score of 619.

St. Paul’s took first place with a score of 609, while host Spain Park finished second with a 614 total. Homewood took fourth place with a score of 624.

The Patriots’ Jack Poole and Mountain Brook’s Harlan Winn carded a total of 151 to share third place with Bayside’s William Buhl.

Proceeds from the event go to the Bradley Johnson Memorial Foundation to assist young golfers with scholarships and help defray the cost of playing junior and amateur tournaments. The foundation has disbursed nearly $200,000 in the past 10 years.

Johnson was an outstanding golfer at Spain Park who was killed in an automobile accident in March 2006.

EARLY SIGNS OF SPRING…

While the weather has been unpredictable, the spring sports calendar is already well underway, and area teams are already making a strong impression.

In softball, Coach C.J. Hawkins’ Spain Park Lady Jaguars are undefeated at 21-0 and ranked number one in Class 7A. Hawkins has truly built a softball dynasty on Valleydale Road and is surely on the short list of favorites to win the state championship, and he could even make a run at the national championship.

In Class 7A baseball, Hoover is ranked sixth with a 10-3 mark, while Briarwood is ranked number one in Class 5A at 11-1.

And as usual, the area completely dominates virtually all classifications

in soccer. In boys Class 7A, Oak Mountain is in its usual position as number one, with Vestavia Hills, Hoover, Mountain Brook and Spain Park all crowding the top 10.

Homewood is ranked fifth in the Class 6A boys category, while Briarwood comes in seventh in Class 4A-5A. Westminster Oak Mountain is tops in Class 1A-3A. In girls Class 7A, Vestavia is ranked first, with Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Hoover also in the top 10. In girls Class 6A, John Carroll Catholic and Homewood are ranked first and second, respectively. In Class 1A-3A, Indian Springs, the Altamont School and Westminster-Oak Mountain are all ranked.

It’s going to be a fun year.

BRESLER HONORED…

Alvin Bresler was one of the first great athletes to come out of what is now considered the Over the Mountain area. He was a superstar in football and track at Shades Valley High School in the mid-1960s before going on to stardom in both sports at Auburn University. Later, Bresler served as head football coach at Homewood and Vestavia, directing the Patriots to the state Class 4A title in 1974.

Bresler has received many honors in his career, but he’ll earn perhaps the most prestigious at his college alma mater in April. He is one of six former Tiger athletes to be inducted in the 20th Annual Tiger Trail of Auburn on April 7. Fellow inductees will include former professional football stars James Brooks and Bobby Hunt. ❖

ALL-OTM GIRLS, From page 36

placed four players on the elite squad, while Hoover and Spain Park each landed three. Additionally, Lady Buc junior forward Eboni Williams and Lady Jag junior guard Claire Holt were named co-Players of the Year by the coaches.

Spain Park coach Mike Chase, who directed Spain Park to a 22-12 record and state runner-up finish, was named Coach of the Year.

Williams, who stands 6-1, averaged 11.8 points and 7.8 rebounds in sparking Hoover to a 29-7 record and the Class 7A championship. Her best effort of the season may have been a 23-point, 14-rebound performance in a regular season win over Tuscaloosa County.

“Eboni was a real leader and one of our most consistent players,” Hoover coach Krystle Johnson said. “It would have been very difficult to win the state title without her.”

Holt was a high-scoring force for her team the entire season, but she became particularly effective down the stretch. She scored 32 points in Spain Park’s 60-46 rout of Grissom of Huntsville in the Class 7A Northeast Regionals at Jacksonville State University. Holt also connected on the deciding free throw in the Lady Jags’ 49-48 win over McGill-Toolen in the Class 7A semi-final game.

For the season, she averaged 18 points, six rebounds and three assists per contest.

“It’s a real honor to be named Player of the Year,” Holt said. “I’m happy to accept it on behalf of our team. We all worked so hard to reach the finals. It’s also special when you consider how many great players our area produces – these are the girls I’ve been playing either with or against my entire life.”

Williams is joined on the All-Over the Mountain team by Hoover teammates Angela Grant and Joiya Maddox. Sarah Ashlee Barker and Barrett Herring represent Spain Park along with Holt.

Other members of the All-Over the Mountain team include Morgan Hutchinson, Briarwood; Josie Wannemuehler and Katie Gagliano, John Carroll Catholic; Hannah Barber, Shelby Hardy, Ajah Wayne and Tori Webb, Homewood; Lacey Jeffcoat, Mountain Brook; Kailey Rory and Jacoby Sims, Oak Mountain; and Courtney Milner, Vestavia Hills. ❖

ALL-OTM BOYS, From page 36

outstanding guard for the Jaguars. Already committed to Memphis University, Johnson is the son of former University of Alabama forward and Houston Rockets star Buck Johnson.

Davis, formerly the head coach at Thompson, led Vestavia to a 19-15 season, which ended with a loss to Auburn in the Class 7A semi-finals.

“It’s a real honor to be named Coach of the Year, in no small part because it comes from my peers,” Davis said. “But it’s much more about our players than anything I did.

They accomplished so much. All of the credit should go to them.”

Watford is joined on the All-Over the Mountain team by fellow Spartans Sean Elmore and Ben McCool. Mac Smith, Mitchell Langley and Scott Morrison represent Vestavia.

Other members of the All-Over the Mountain team include Carson Donnelly, Briarwood Christian; Christian Wilson-Poole, John Carroll Catholic; Trey Jemison and Luke Touliatos, Homewood; Jamari Blackmon and Marion Humphrey, Hoover; 2016-17 Co-Player of the Year Jamal Johnson of Spain Park. and Will Stephenson, Oak Mountain. ❖

Journal photo by Marin Gentry

Front row, from left: Emma Blackmon, Anna Grace Gibbons (All-Metro), Kate Ann (All-Tournament) and Sanaa Taylor.

Standing: Head coach Christi Martin, April Jenkins, Alex Hershbine, Anna Harbin (All-Tournament), Brinley Cassell (Tournament MVP and All-Metro), Destyne Rondeau, Sydney Taylor, Parker Jackson, Kayla Jamison and assistant coach Erin Meacahm.

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Homewood Girls Win Metro South Championship PAGE 35

2016-2017 ALL-OTM BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS

Talent Load

LEE DAVIS

Braasch Statement

Long-Time Rebel Assistant Enters Hall of Fame

Williams and Holt Lead All-OTM Basketball Team

Peter Braasch coached multiple sports at Vestavia Hills for 37 years and doesn’t have a single win on his official

A strong case could be made that the 2016-17 season was the best in the history of Over the Mountain girls basketball.

Hoover and Homewood won state championships in their respective classifications, and Spain Park came within a hair of upending its crosstown rival for the Class 7A title. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that the Lady Bucs, Patriots and Jaguars dominated this season’s All-Over the Mountain basketball team.

Chosen by an exclusive poll of the eight coaches of Class 7A and 6A programs in the area, Homewood See ALL-OTM GIRLS, page 35

Journal photo by Marin Gentry

By Lee Davis

Members of the 2016-17 All-Over the Mountain girls basketball team includes, first row, from left: coach Mike Chase, Spain Park; Sarah Ashlee Barker, Spain Park; Kaitlin Gagliano, John Carroll Catholic; Josie Wannemuehler, John Carroll Catholic; Hannah Barber, Homewood; Morgan Hutchinson, Briarwood; Shelby Hardy, Homewood; and Courtney Milner, Vestavia Hills. Second row: Claire Holt, Spain Park; Joiya Maddox, Hoover; Eboni Williams, Hoover; Angela Grant, Hoover; Tori Webb, Homewood; Ajah Wayne, Homewood; and Barrett Herring, Spain Park. Not pictured: Lacey Jeffcoat, Mountain Brook; Kailey Rory, Oak Mountain; and Jacoby Sims, Oak Mountain.

Final FourMen Spartans and Rebels Lead All-OTM Boys Team

The 2016-17 boys basketball season will likely be remembered as “The Year of the Spartans,” as Mountain Brook earned its third state championship since 2013.

While the Spartans’ epic championship run was undoubtedly a highlight, it wasn’t the only big story of the season. Another was the rise of the unheralded Vestavia Hills Rebels, who hit their stride just in time to reach the Class 7A Final Four.

The season also was highlighted by great individual performers such as Mountain Brook’s Trendon Watford and Spain Park’s Jamal Johnson.

With a mix such as that, it stands to reason that the 2016-17 All-Over the Mountain team may be one of the most talented yet. Three Spartans and three Rebels qualified for the team, which was chosen by an exclusive Over the Mountain Journal poll of the eight head coaches of Class 7A and Class 6A schools in the area. The coaches chose Watford and Johnson as co-Players of the Year. Vestavia’s Patrick Davis – in his first year as coach of the Rebels – was named 2016-17 Coach of the Year.

Watford, a towering 6-foot-8-inch sophomore forward, dominated play for most of the season, leading Mountain Brook to a 31-5 record and the state Class 7A championship. He averaged 23 points and 10 rebounds per game.

“Without a doubt Trendon is one of the best players in Alabama,” said Spartan coach Bucky

Journal photo by Marin Gentry

By Lee Davis

Members of the 2016-17 All-Over the Mountain boys basketball team includes, first row, from left: Will Stephenson, Oak Mountain; Carson Donnelly, Briarwood; Mac Smith, Vestavia Hills; and Scott Morrison, Vestavia Hills. Second row: Christian Wilson-Poole, John Carroll Catholic; Mitchell Langley, Vestavia Hills; Jamal Johnson, Spain Park; and Jamari Blackmon, Hoover. Not pictured: Trey Jemison, Homewood; Luke Touliatos, Homewood; Marion Humphrey, Hoover; and Sean Elmore, Ben McCool and Trendon Watford, Mountain Brook.

McMillan. “He does so many things for a team, and he’s just a sophomore. There’s no telling how good he is going to be.”

Johnson was one of the area’s top scorers as an See ALL-OTM BOYS page 35

record.

That’s because Braasch never served as a head coach. But as the ultimate assistant coach, he literally changed lives.

Braasch was inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame on March 20, and anyone familiar with his record knows he deserves to be there.

For nearly four decades, Braasch worked with the Rebel football, basketball and track programs and made invaluable contributions to all of them.

“One might question why an assistant coach should qualify for the Hall of Fame,” Vestavia head football coach Buddy Anderson, for whom Braasch served as defensive coordinator for 36 years, said in a statement issued by the Hall of Fame.

“It’s because Peter is the epitome of who and what a high school coach should be to young people,” Anderson said in the statement. “He demands the best from his players and, at the same time, inspires them to stretch beyond their abilities. Most of all, he has a love and concern for young people that goes far beyond the years they played for him.”

In addition to coaching football, Braasch was an assistant head basketball coach under George Hatchett from 1990 to 2014, helping the Rebels claim two state championships.

Braasch also was assistant head coach in the Vestavia track program from 1978 to 1994 and directed the freshman Rebel runners to a state title in 1993.

Winning championships is fun, but Braasch said the real joy in coaching comes from the relationships built over the years.

“At one time, I didn’t think about it that much – I was just doing my job,” he recalled. “Later, when a former player comes back or calls and thanks me for what I did for him – there’s no better feeling. Making a positive difference in someone’s life is what it’s really all about.”

Braasch said he had opportunities to become a head coach, but he never felt called to accept one.

See BRAASCH, page 35