4.21.16

inspiring imagination

Hoover Teacher Unleashes Art at Magic City Art Connection

By Emily Williams

Nelson Grice is a sculptor and ceramics artist, a Hoover High School teacher and an everyday advocate for using your imagination. i He loyally attends the Magic City Art Connection each year and plans to return to the April 22-24 festival to show his unique animal sculptures.

See magic city art, page 3

Upon entering his classroom, students are greeted by a quote from Albert Einstein that reads, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

o n With the Sho W Decorators’ ShowHouse will be open through Sunday. HOme Page 24

a r iver r un S t hr ough it Birmingham man channels passion for southern living into conservation. life Page 10 Bring your r ep to School Vestavia Hills High School hosts legislators, PTO members. ScHOOl Page 36

Calling all Vulcans!

The Vulcan Park and Museum is looking for young, civic-minded adults interested in serving on the group’s first-ever Junior Leadership Board.

The new board is designed to support the mission and needs of Vulcan Park and Museum and to help leadership promote the organization.

Board members will be developing events such as the Vulcans on Parade community art project and other new fundraisers. They’ll also receive invitations to special events, including members-only receptions and the annual Vulcans Community Awards Dinner.

The position also offers networking opportunities as well as the possibility of serving on the board of directors in the future. The first board members will serve two-year terms, with the possibility of serving up to two consecutive terms.

Applicants must be between the ages of 21 and 45, fill out an application and submit a resume. To learn more, email development@ visitvulcan.com or go to visitvulcan. com. ❖

murphy’s law

Binge Decorating

I once wrote a column comparing my string of home decorating projects to the children’s book “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” For the mouse, a cookie led to a glass of milk, which led to a napkin, which circled back several pages later to another cookie. For me, putting new drapes in the living room led to a new couch which … well, you get the idea.

Now, several years later, my house needs another cookie. In fact, it needs a cookie, milk, napkin – the whole shebang – all at the same time. Maybe “need” is the wrong word. The truth is, it’s me. I’m tired of my upholstery, tired of the colors, tired of going from room to room sighing, “One of these days…”

Sue Murphy

I woke up fighting the urge to haul every stick of furniture out to the curb and be done with it, which would have been emotionally satisfying but not terribly helpful going forward.

Well, that day was last Tuesday. I woke up fighting the urge to haul every stick of furniture out to the curb and be done with it, which would have been emotionally satisfying but not terribly helpful going forward. Besides, the house wasn’t all bad. The tables were still in good condition. I loved the rugs and the paintings. The place just needed a little freshening up. My earthy reds and browns and oranges have served me well, but now I was ready for blues and greens, more sea and sky than soil.

Soil was going to be an issue, though. Life is messy, and I wanted my house to be a place where my grandchildren would be free to play, a place where stray Cheerios blended in effortlessly with the color scheme and the occasional juice box spill wouldn’t spell disaster. The question was how to accomplish this.

I am not a person with decorating vision. I know what I like when I see it, but I don’t know where to

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.

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, 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: Rae Patterson

over the Mountain views

begin looking. It was time to call in professional help.

I’ve been particularly skittish about this because, if you’re a get-along person at heart, there’s always the danger that you’ll get caught up in someone else’s vision and end up with something that is not you at all. Still, if the project was to be completed in my lifetime, I needed a skilled someone to help the process along. I shored up my gumption reserves and set up an appointment for a decorator to come by Wednesday. All that worry was for nothing, because the woman was very nice. When I told her what I was looking for, she didn’t roll her eyes one time. She hung in there as I walked from room to room, repeating words like “sturdy,” “forgiving” and “Scotchguard.” She provided me with books of swatches in beautiful greens and blues and I spent several happy hours choosing just the right combinations. When I met with her the following week to finalize the plans, half of the fabrics had been discontinued (of course they had) but that’s OK. I know where I’m headed and I’ll get there eventually. When my children were small, I dreamed of having a house that was pure grownup. I wanted breakables. I wanted coffee table books. I wanted a china cabinet whose legs had not been chewed on by a dog. Well, I got all that and I’ve circled back to wanting a place where a mouse could actually sit back and enjoy his cookie and milk in stain-free peace. I’ve been looking at new swatches, holding them up in the sunlight against the rugs, and as I gazed out the window, I noticed that the azaleas across the back fence are looking a little tired. Ah … another cookie. ❖

With the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Parade of Homes kicking off this weekend we asked, “What would your dream home include?”

“A workout area, including a 25 meter pool so I could actually do swim workouts at home. And a library!”

Margaret

Grogan

Homewood

“Chef’s kitchen! And an open plan because we like to entertain. And a home has gotta have a dog.”

Savannah Sumners Birmingham

“I would love a studio space to be able to paint and do art. And it would have a giant window with great lighting.”

Katelyn Ledford Birmingham

and

“A horse barn

pasture, with a horse, of course.”

Bradley Pierce Homewood

Photo by Rob Lagerstrom

Grice.

“I think what keeps me coming back … is I love the crowd and it’s my kind of people. It’s Birmingham,” he said.

Grice’s love of art was born and bred in Alabama, beginning in high school, carrying him through college to obtain a bachelor’s in sculpture and ceramics from the University of Montevallo, and taking him back to Hoover, where he has been a sculpture and ceramics teacher since 1996.

“I had a teacher in high school, Soon-Bok Lee Sellers, and she just kind of saved my life in a way,” he said. After graduating and pursuing a teaching career, he decided that he wanted to be that same person for his students.

Students in one of Grice’s classrooms described it as their home at school – a place where they feel absolutely comfortable and able to relax. Everyone was working on something, whether applying color to their work or molding their masterpieces. Even Grice was in on the action, applying intricate pieces of clay to a small, rocket-like structure as he spoke.

Working with mud and his hands is something that Grice loves about teaching ceramic arts, describing it as the most primitive form of art besides drawing on the walls of a cave.

“There is such a push for technology and computers, things that are so esoteric,” Grice said. “This is really one of the most primitive things you can do.”

Even before the ancient Mesopotamians created the potter’s wheel in about 4,000 B.C., primitive humans were molding vessels to hold things such as food and water as far back as 10,000 B.C. and making small figurines tens of thousands of years before that.

As for Grice’s work, rather than vessels for water and food, he creates whimsical animal sculptures using bronze or clay. Each animal has a strong personality, for example, an innovative monkey who has created wooden wings in an attempt to take flight or a primate saddled up on a

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“The only limit that your imagination has are the boundaries and limits that you put on it,” he said. “So, when you allow your imagination to pour out, when you open the door and allow yourself to think freely, you can do anything.”

Grice said that when he looks back on his collection of pieces, he sees the story of his life, from where he was in high school and college to where he is now, teaching his students to keep their imaginations uninhibited.

Upon entering his classroom, students are greeted by a quote from Albert Einstein that reads, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

Grice said he wants his students to know that, without imagination and the ability to freely hypothesize, there would be little progress, whether in the art world or the world of science.

Grice’s imagination won him the Best in Show Award at the 2014 Magic City Art Connection.

This year, just as any other, his work will be on display for sale along with the work of 199 other local and national artists covering a plethora of mediums from dance to food to paintings.

The festival will take over Linn Park April 22-23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and April 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and free for kids ages 12 and under. Guests are invited to bring their leashed pets.

A complementary event, the 19th Corks and Chefs Food and Wine Tasting, will take place from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The tast ing will feature food from local restaurants, including 5 Point Public House Oyster Bar, Chez Lulu, Vino, El Barrio and Slice, with accompanying wine, beer and spirits. Tickets are $45 at the door or $35 in advance and include general admission to the festival.

For more information and a full line-up of artists and chefs, visit www. magiccityart.com. For more information on Nelson Grice, visit www.nelsongriceart.com. ❖

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Mike Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 March

Making a Difference

safe space: Community Hosts and organizers

25th Annual Hear the Hope Banquet Benefits King’s Home

arah Kuper

King’s Home in Chelsea is a place where at-risk children and mothers can find a safe home and path for-

The rural and scenic atmosphere of the campus lends itself to serving the organization’s Christian mission of ministering to young people from troubled backgrounds.

Kendall Eagan, a board member of King’s Home who is helping organize this year’s “Hear the Hope” banquet, said the mission of King’s Home is important because it helps show God’s love to others.

Hope banquet and organizers say it will be particularly powerful.

“We will have videos that show the difference King’s Home is making for abandoned and abused children,” Eagan said.

The event is April 28 at the Cahaba Grand Banquet Hall and will be emceed by local media personality Wendy Garner – former host of Daytime Alabama on WVTM 13.

Children who come to King’s Home are generally those who aren’t a fit for the foster care system. They are referred by the state.

their time and energy to help provide a stable environment and we have a group of women who pray for each child by name.”

Besides raising money, Eagan hopes the event will raise awareness about the issues facing disadvantaged youth.

“It seems like many causes are advancing in this day and age but not necessarily children’s,” she said, “There is a lot of awareness around pet rescue but we have to make sure to give a voice to children.”

Eagan said King’s Home welcomes visitors and those looking to learn more about the ministry.

This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the april 21, 20164 issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

please initial and fax back within 24 hours. if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Thank you for your prompt attention.

“In this era of ‘helicopter parenting,’ where we do everything for our kids, we have to realize some people can’t do anything for their kids. We are called to help the orphaned,” she said.

This will be the 25th Hear the

While the children do receive government aid for their care, King’s Home does not receive any additional aid and the organization relies chiefly on donations.

But Eagan said it takes more than money to make a difference in these children’s lives.

“We have people volunteering

While there is not an exact fundraising goal, Eagan said her goal is to raise as much money as possible.

To register for the event or to learn more about King’s Home, visit kingshome.com. Tickets for the banquet are $150 and up. ❖

fore a good cause: Brodie James, Jennifer Lawes, Brittany Gordon and Chris Woodham, from left, met recently to make plans for May 12 golf tournament.

UCP of Greater Birmingham Junior Board Hosts Driving After Dark

United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham’s junior board will host Driving After Dark, a night golf tournament, May 12 at Highland Park golf course.

The fundraiser begins at 3:30 p.m. and includes dinner, drinks, games and prizes. The last nine holes of the tournament will be played in the dark with glow-in-the-dark golf balls and fluorescent lights.

A limited number of teams and sponsorships are available by contacting Jennifer Lyles Dowdle at 944-3916 or jdowdle@ucpbham.com. The price for a team of four is $600.

UCP of Greater Birmingham serves more than 4,000 children and adults with disabilities, providing programs designed to promote self-reliance, present choices and improve quality of life. ❖

are, from left: Kendal Eagan, Wendy Garner, Wendy Barze, Net Wade, Laurie Hereford and Kristin McPherson.

BIRMINGHAM Tails in the Trails Birmingham Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo’s Junior Board will host its sixth annual fundraising event, presented by Harbert Management Corporation and Merrill Lynch, April 29 from 6:30-10:30pm. Attendees will enjoy live music by Gentleman Zero, food by Happy Catering Company, animal encounters, a silent auction and a cash bar. Tickets are $20 online until April 28 and $25 at the door. The evening of entertainment will be held in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. Guests will have the opportunity to adopt Attila or Phoenix, the Zoo’s golden eagles. Net proceeds from the event will benefit the new golden eagle exhibit coming to the Birmingham Zoo. This event is for ages 21 and up only. Animal exhibits will be closed during the event. For more information, visit birminghamzoo.com. ❖

April 21 - M Ay 5

Thurs., April 21

BIRMINGHAM

Taste for a Cure

Old Car Heaven

Joe Perez

Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646

FAX: 205-824-1246

April

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Keeping the Feast

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

Birmingham. For more information, visit the “SpringsFest” Facebook page.

BIRMINGHAM

Gumbo Gala

Regions Field

The Parkinson Association of Alabama will host its annual fundraiser featuring food, beer and wine pairings prepared by a team of local chefs. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. and admission is $75. All proceeds benefit the medical research towards a cure for Parkinson’s disease. For more information, visit parkinsonalabama. com.

HOOVER

Bargain Carousel Preview Party

Old Princeton-Hoover

This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the April 21, 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Thank you for your prompt attention.

The Junior League of Birmingham will hold its annual sale beginning with a Bargain Bash preview party April 21 at 6 p.m. Tickets to the event are $40 for VIP admission and $30 for general admission at 7 p.m. The sale will begin April 23 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and will continue April 24 from 1-5 p.m.

The church will host an event featuring keynote speaker James Farmer, Wall Street Journal best-selling author and editor-at-large for Southern Living, from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $20. The event will begin with a terrace party and book signing will follow the program. For more information, visit ssechurch.org.

Fri., April 22

HOOVER

Rivals for Wishes

Ross Bridge

Admission for the first day begins at $5 and is free the next day. This year, both Magic Moments and Every Moment Matters will benefit from a portion of the funds raised. For more information, visit bargaincaurousel.net.

BIRMINGHAM

Be the One Gala

Woodrow Hall

School Ministries of Birmingham will host its inaugural fundraiser gala. The event will include a presentation featuring keynote speakers Todd Geralds and Kenneth Breivik. Tickets are $150 and benefit the organization’s outreach programs in Jefferson and Shelby county school districts. For more information, visit schoolministriesbham. org.

Make-A-Wish Alabama will hosts its annual Alabama vs. Auburn themed event and parody football game featuring celebrity attendants. The event will be held from 6-10 p.m. and aims to raise enough funds to grant wishes for 25 Alabama children.

The evening will include complimentary wine, silent auction and more, Tickets are $100. For more information, visit alabama.wish.org/ rivals.

Sat., April 23

NORTH SHELBY

SpringsFest

Indian Springs School

The school will host its annual music festival featuring local and regional music including Over the Mountain band, Riverbend. Tickets are $10 for students or $15 for adults. Proceeds will benefit the Woodlawn Foundation and its efforts to combat issues of poverty in

Episcopal Place, an organization that provides seniors and disabled adults affordable residence, will host a gumbo cooking competition from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission is $12 and benefits the organization’s mission. For more information, visit episcopalplace.org.

HOOVER

Community Garage Sale

Lake Crest

The Lake Crest neighborhood will host a community garage sale from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Red balloons will be attached to each of the three neighborhood entrances and will mark participating homes.

VESTAVIA HILLS

Touch a Truck

Vestavia Hills Baptist Church

The church will host a children’s event from 11 a.m.-noon. Children can interact with and explore various vehicles. The event will include a play area, crafts, a performance by Roger Day and more. This event is free. For more information, visit vhbc.com.

HOMEWOOD

Steeple2Steeple 5K

Trinity UMC

Trinity UMC and Canterbury UMC will co-host a 5K race and one-mile fun run beginning at 8 a.m. Registration is closed, but a post-race party will include food, music and games. Proceeds from the race benefit the United Methodist Children’s Home’s programs located in North Alabama. For more information, visit steeple2steeple.com.

Wed., April 27

BIRMINGHAM

Wounded Hearts Workshop

Front, from left: Courtney Patton DeShazo, Dana Williams, Julie Herring, Tim Hennessy Jr., Matt Hottle, J. Chris Mason, Stephen Armstrong and Turner Burton.

Back: Fontaine Haskell, Whitney Wright, Madison Merrill, Drew Weil, Kathryn Gay, Joe Gribbin Jr., Eve Hennessy, Rosemary Alexander and Amanda Hawkins. Not pictured: Lauren DeMoss, Frank Anderson, Bettina Boateng, Joseph DuMontier, Raymond Harbert Jr., Lexi Holdbrooks and Amy O’Brien.

BIRMINGHAM

Lend Me a Tenor

Virginia Samford Theatre

The theater will perform the comedic play about an “Othello” production gone wrong. The production is directed by Jack Mann. The show will run from April 21 through May 2 and showtimes are Thursdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25. For more information, visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org. ❖

The center will hold its annual therapeutic workshop for individuals who are victims of sexual assault. The event will be held in the conference room at 5:30 p.m. and will include craft design and storytelling. For more information, call 458-8984.

Thurs., April 28

BIRMINGHAM

Dining Out for Life

Various Locations

AIDS Alabama will host its seventh annual partnership with Birmingham restaurants. Supporters are invited to dine out at participating restaurants and 25 percent of the meal price will be donated to the organization which supports the lives of Alabamians with HIV. For more information, visit diningoutforlife.com/birmingham/ restaurants.

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Opening Reception

Grand Bohemian Gallery

The gallery will host an opening reception for its newest exhibition from 5-7 p.m. featuring artwork by students of Studio by the Tracks, a non-profit

An honoree lunch and silent auction from noon-2:30 p.m. following the tournament. Tickets are $20. Proceeds from each event support patients with gynecologic cancers through the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation and CanSurvive Support Group. For more information, visit moorelifetolive.org.

Sat., April 30

BIRMINGHAM

Feast of Saint Mark Festival

Saint Mark Catholic Church

The fifth annual Italian food festival will take place from 3:30-10 p.m. Proceeds benefit the church and the charities it supports. For more information, visit feastofstmark.com.

HOOVER

Celebrate Hoover Day

Veterans Park

that provides free art classes to children and adults with Autism and other mental illnesses. All work will be available for purchase with 50 percent of sales benefitting the studio. For more information, visit the “Studio By the Tracks Opening Reception” Facebook page.

Fri., April 29

BIRMINGHAM

Moore Life to Live Golf Tournament

Pinetree Country Club

The Moore Life to Live foundation will host its fourth annual golf-scramble tournament beginning with check-in at 7:30 a.m. Registration closed April 1, but guests can still support the event.

The city will host a free celebration for the public in honor of the city from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The event will include carnival rides, memorial dedications, a petting zoo, a blood drive, document shredding, a giant apple pie and more. Parking and shuttle service will be available at Spain Park High School. For more information, visit hooveral.org.

HOOVER

Hope for Autumn Crawfish Boil

Ross Bridge

The Hope for Autumn Foundation will host its annual crawfish boil to benefit children battling cancer at Children’s of Alabama and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders. The event will be held from 3-9 p.m. on the main green. Tickets are $30 online or $35 at the door. Children ages 5-12 enter for $5 and children under 5 enter for free. For more information, visit hopeforautumnfoundation.org.

BIRMINGHAM

March for Babies

Uptown Park

Opening ceremonies for the annual two mile walk will begin with team photos at 8 a.m. In addition to food and fun, the UAB NICU and CCN reunion will take place during the walk. For more information, visit marchforbabies.org.

There’s a world class golf course here, but that’s only the beginning of the story. Living here means being surrounded by nearly a thousand unspoiled acres with trails, well-stocked lakes, an equestrian boarding facility, and yes, a world class golf course.

GET AWAY EVERY DAY LiveAtShoalCreek.com

From left: Tyler Spindler, Nick Crawford and Suzanne Mann.

Plant Sale

The Samford Legacy League will host its annual gala Fri., April 29. The evening will include a dinner as well as a performance of the musical “On the Town” by Samford students. Tickets are $100 for standard reservations and $125 for deluxe tickets which include preferred seating, reserved parking, a photo and a private cast reception. For more information, visit samford.edu/legacyleague or call 726-2247. ❖

April 30-May 1

BIRMINGHAM Southern Bazaar

BJCC

A spring market featuring arts and crafts, women and children’s apparel, soaps, candles, food and more will take place April 30 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and May 1 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free but guests can buy $5 wristbands to receive discounts from the vendors. Proceeds from the bands will go to Ronald McDonald House Charities. For more information, email southernbazaar1@gmail.com.

Sun., May 1

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Little Leader Day

Mountain Brook City Hall

Leadership Mountain Brook, an organization of students at Mountain Brook High School, will host its annual day of service for elementary students. The event will give fourthsixth graders an opportunity to learn more about the community, its leaders and build leadership skills from 12:302:30 p.m. Registration is $25 per student. For more information, visit welcometomountainbrook.com.

BIRMINGHAM

Batter Up for Autism Regions Field

The organizations Autism Society of Alabama, Milestones Behavior Group, Civitan Sparks Clinic, Arc of Jefferson County, Glenwood Autism, University of Alabama’s Autism Spectrum Disabilities Clinic, Mitchell’s Place, The Learning Tree, Ady’s Army, The Red Barn and Triumph Services will host an Autismfriendly baseball game at 3 p.m. Free tickets will be given to Autism families while they last. For more information, visit autismfriendlybaronsgame.evolero. com.

BIRMINGHAM

Arty Party

B&A Warehouse

Birmingham AIDS Outreach will host its 25th annual party benefitting the organization’s services. The event will begin at 3 p.m. and will

include more than 200 pieces of art donated from local and regional artists. Entertainment will be provided by Blue Galaxy String Orchestra. Tickets are $50. For more information, visit birminghamaidsoutreach.org.

Tues., May 3

HOMEWOOD

Book Signing

Little Professor

Former Judge Debra Goldstein will host a book signing event for her latest cozy-mystery “Should Have Played Poker” from 5-7 p.m. Proceeds raised from book sales made now through May 30 benefit the YWCA’s domestic violence programs and the Collat Jewish Family Services’ CARES program. For more information, visit debrahgoldstein. com.

Thurs., May 5

BIRMINGHAM Crawfest

Birmingham Zoo

The Thomas E. Jernigan Foundation and the Coastal Conservation Association will host the 34th annual crawfish boil to support the conservation of coastal marine resources. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. and features boiled crawfish and shrimp by Crazy Cajun’s, an open bar, music by the Billy Gant Band, a silent auction and a raffle. Tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple. For more information, visit ccaalabama.org.

BIRMINGHAM

Fiesta Ball

Iron City

The Young Supporters Board for the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center will host its annual ball benefitting cancer research at UAB. The event will include Mexican food, a silent auction and music by Livewire. Online tickets are $35 and sales will close May 4. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $40 per person. For more information, visit www3.ccc.uab.edu.

HOMEWOOD

PJ’s and Pooches a.k.a. Girl Stuff

Inspired by store owner Dee Tipps and her love of fostering dogs, the store will host a party and fashion show featuring sleepwear and every-day clothing beginning at 7 p.m. Throughout the weekend, the store will provide opportunities to donate to Two by Two Animal Rescue. For more information, visit the “PJ’s and Pooches” Facebook page.

May 5-7

HOOVER

Spring Plant Sale

Aldridge Gardens

The gardens will kick off its annual plant sale with a members-only preview sale May 5 from 4-7 p.m. The regular sale will take place May 6 from 9 a.m.5 p.m. and May 7 from 9 a.m.-noon. Members will receive 10 percent off of all purchases. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Sat., May 7

HOMEWOOD

We Love Homewood Day

Homewood Central Park

The Homewood Chamber of Commerce will host a community celebration beginning with a 5K and fun run at 7:30 a.m. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the park will transform into fairgrounds featuring rides, music, a silent auction and a vendor expo. There is no admission, but a $15 wristband provides all-day access to attractions. For more information, visit homewoodparks.com.

BIRMINGHAM

Garden Art Party

Iron City

Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama will host it’s 20th annual party from 7-10 p.m. The event will include both a live and silent auction and will celebrate the organization’s 25th anniversary. Tickets are $95 and proceeds benefit the foundation’s efforts to support research and provide support services for local families affected by alzheimer’s and dementia. For more information, visit alzca.org. ❖

“Bollywood” azalea

“Curly Fries” hosta

Front, from left: Kathryn Woodruff, Sharon Smith, Suzanne Hopkins, Karen Bergquist. Back: Jan Cobb, Tricia Naro, Melinda Mitchell, Lynn Parrish, Jeanna Westmoreland and Monique Gannon. Not pictured: Lisbeth Cease, Caitlin Hammond and Allison Strickland.

Photo special to the Journal

Rotarians Respond

Club Thanks First Responders With Shrimp and Skydivers

On April 23, the Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary is sponsoring a shrimp boil festival to honor Vestavia Hills police officers and firefighters.

This annual event was designed six years ago as “an opportunity to give our first responders recognition,” said Rotary event coordinator Margaret Cook.

This year’s event includes a live band and the skydiving team The Casters. Members of the team will be landing in the Vestavia Hills City Hall parking lot during the event.

The event will be 3 to 6 p.m. at City Hall. Tickets are $10, but the event is free to first responders and their families.

Proceeds and donations will go to support first responders and Vestavia Hills High School’s We the People mock congressional team.

The Rotary plans to use this year ’s funds for first responders to buy two commercial drones for the police and fire departments to use in crisis situations. Cook said that proceeds last year were used to buy an ATV for use by the first responders.

Trunk Show

Thursday, April 28

Responde Rs Recognition: Above, from left, Dan Rary, Vestavia Hills chief of police; Troy Hendrixson, Vestavia Sunrise Rotary Club president; Jim St. John, Vestavia Hills fire chief and members of Sunrise Rotary club are looking forward to this years First Responder Celebration. Proceeds from the shrimp boil festival go to support first responders and Vestavia Hills High School’s We the People mock congressional team.

A River Runs Through It

Birmingham Man Channels Passion for Southern Living Into Conservation

By Sarah Kuper

So far in his life, Britt Butler has served in WWII, worked as a Jefferson County reserve deputy sheriff and mentored dozens of Boy Scouts.

He also served as one of the founding fathers of today’s Southern Living magazine.

Butler’s grandfather ran a publication called the Progressive Farmer in the early 1900s. In an effort to engage city dwellers, Progressive Farmer developed a secondary publication in 1966 and called it Southern Living.

Like his grandfather and his father, Butler worked at Progressive Farmer and helped found the new Southern Living publication.

“It was modeled after a California magazine called Sunset. There were things in Southern Living that appealed to men and women,” Butler said, “There was even a sports section back then.”

The magazine was sold to Time Inc. in 1985.

Now, Britt Butler enjoys a quiet life on the banks of the Cahaba River in Vestavia Hills with his wife Judy.

His home sits almost a mile off the road with barely another house in site. From his wraparound deck he can study the wildlife and watch the river flow – a river he helped save.

Since his time as a Boy Scout leader, Butler has understood and respected the need for water.

“I went on a hike once with the group and it turned out we didn’t have enough water. I haven’t forgotten that,” he said.

After the sale of Southern Living, Butler began to dedicate more of his life to environmental activism, especially Alabama’s waterways.

In 1988, Butler started a non-profit foundation called ABAHAC, which is Cahaba spelled backward. From this foundation, the Cahaba River Society was born.

The foundation initially used money to help support a lawsuit the CRS filed over sewage draining into the Cahaba River. Courts ruled in the society’s favor and since then, the CRS has continued to help improve state and local stormwater regulations along with other clean water and healthy ecosystem initiatives.

“Before all this there was no way in Alabama you could put land in protection, they hadn’t started the conservation easement or Freshwater Land Trust,” Butler said, “The Cahaba River Society has been a part of all that.”

ABAHAC has also been a financial resource to a growing number of other natural resource preservation groups all over Alabama and into Tennessee.

Though Butler doesn’t like to crow

In 1988, Butler started a non-profit foundation called ABAHAC, which is Cahaba spelled backward. From this foundation, the Cahaba River Society was born.

The foundation initially used money to help support a lawsuit the CRS filed over sewage draining into the Cahaba River. Courts ruled in the society’s favor and since then, the CRS has continued to help improve state and local stormwater regulations along with other clean water and healthy ecosystem initiatives.

too loudly about his generosity, he does estimate that he has given at least $3 million to preservation organizations since ABAHAC’s inception in 1988.

Butler will announce recipients of this year’s donations at an upcoming luncheon.

Additionally, local businesses are getting behind Butler’s vision by supporting the Cahaba River Society through fundraisers.

Tonya Jones SalonSpa has a goal to raise at least $18,000 for the society through a silent auction and party on April 21 as part of the Jazz with Civitas event in English Village.

English Village merchants such as Monkees and Jordan Alexander will feature specials and Gallery 1930 will host an art show as part of the event.

Though Butler is proud of the work he has done in Birmingham through his family’s publishing company, it is his passion for nature that has him contributing to Alabama in a more tangible way.

As for the lifestyle magazine’s 50th anniversary this year, Butler said he is enjoying the attention the magazine brings to Birmingham, but some things have definitely changed.

“It’s much more of a women’s magazine now. It’s a good cookbook,” he said. “Of course, I’m still very proud of its success.” ❖

Britt Butler, above, enjoys a quiet life on the banks of the Cahaba River in Vestavia Hills. Below, the Progressive Farmer board, around 1970. Britt Bulter’s father, Eugene Butler, is at the head of the table. Britt is seen in the photo sitting two seats two the right of his father. Progessive Farmer launched Southern Living in 1966.

Journal photo by Sarah Kuper

Photo special to the Journal

Mountain Brook Resident Named Schweitzer Fellow

The Albert Schweitzer Fellowship recently announced the selection of its inaugural class of Alabama Schweitzer Fellows.

Taylor Pope of Mountain Brook is one of 16 graduate students working in the field of health who will spend the next year learning to effectively address the social factors that impact health, while developing lifelong leadership skills.

“We are extremely proud of our inaugural class of Schweitzer Fellows,” said Kristin Boggs, director of the Alabama chapter of The Albert Schweitzer Fellowship.

“There was great interest in the program, and we are excited to see what our talented students accomplish over the next 12 months. We are confident that the Alabama Schweitzer program will make a lasting impact on the health of communities in and around Birmingham, Alabama, as our fellows first learn to serve and support vulnerable people in living healthier lives, and then take those skills with them when they establish themselves professionally as leaders in their field.”

Schweitzer Fellows develop and implement service projects that address the root causes of health disparities in under-resourced communities. Each project is implemented in collaboration with a community-based health or social service organization.

For her project, Pope will work with students at Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center to improve their health and self-esteem through dance.

“We are so pleased to bring The Albert Schweitzer Fellowship to Alabama,” said Sylvia Stevens-Edouard, executive director of the fellowship.

“Our program has a ripple effect in communities as Schweitzer Fellows improve the lives not only of those they are directly serving, but their circle of family and friends as well. So there is a lasting community impact. Additionally, the process of moving their fellowship projects from an initial concept to completion teaches Schweitzer Fellows valuable skills in working with others in allied fields. As Schweitzer Fellows develop professionally, this skill is critical to their ability to effect larger-scale change among vulnerable populations.”

Two UAB Students Receive P.E.O. Scholarships

Chidinma Anakwenze of Birmingham and Caroline Rose Kennemer of Hoover are two of the 90 doctoral students in the United States and Canada selected to receive $15,000 Scholar Awards from the P.E.O. Sisterhood.

Both are students in the class of 2017 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and were sponsored by Chapter AK of Birmingham.

Kennemer is the daughter of Greg and Susan Kennemer of Hoover. Anakwenze is the daughter of David and Agatha Anakwenze of Florence. The P.E.O. Scholar Awards were established in 1991 to provide substantial merit-based awards for women who are pursuing doctoral-

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level degrees at accredited colleges or universities. Scholar Award recipients are a select group of women chosen for their high level of academic achievement and their potential to have a positive impact on society.

Rose

“Cathy Rogoff showed me Birmingham at its best.”

To: World of Dogs

From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246

Date: March 10

This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the March 10, 2016 issue. please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

Thank you for your prompt attention.

When Jayme Locke, MD, MPH, FACS, was recruited to join UAB’s Kidney Transplant Program, she was impressed by the medical center’s reputation, leadership and vision. “But it was the people who won me over,” says Jayme. “Cathy Rogoff was part of my recruitment package and she was the one who really helped me see myself living in Birmingham. This is a great city, quaint like many smaller towns but metropolitan, too. My work with kidney transplants is all about finding the right match. Cathy’s work is about helping clients find a home that suits their lifestyle. She’s great at her job!” Jayme has been named to Birmingham’s Top 40 under 40 and her Kidney Chain, the longest in the United States, was featured on Dateline.

Cathy, the top-selling agent at ARC Realty and a certified relocation expert, loves matching clients with the right home. “I’m proud to be part of growing UAB and other Birmingham companies. I’m honored that I’m called upon to help bring people to the place I love the most.”

A

Cathy Rogoff • (205) 266-5944 • mushrealty@aol.com

Taylor Pope

Chidinma Anakwenze

Caroline

Kennemer

A Lesson in Triage

Samford Health Sciences Students Model Earthquake Aftermath

By Sarah Kuper

Samford University’s College of Health Sciences held an emergency response drill for its students April 5 at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood.

At least 300 students from many of the college’s health sciences departments were tasked with helping those injured after a mock earthquake.

The simulated disaster helped Samford students learn to triage patients, treat minor and major injuries and address victims in emotional distress.

Students encountered victims dealing with surface wounds, amputated limbs, debris inhalation, electric shock and even childbirth.

Community members from senior adults to young children volunteered to act as injured victims.

One of the goals of the drill was to force students to think about what steps to take outside of a controlled medical environment and to work in multidisciplinary teams.

This is the fifth year for the drill but the first time the event has been held off campus and on such a large scale.

Other emergency responders from the area who helped facilitate the drill included the American Red Cross, Jefferson County EMA, Homewood Fire and Police, North Flight and regional paramedic centers. ❖

At least 300 students from many of Samford University’s health sciences departments were tasked with helping those injured after a mock earthquake.

Journal photos by Emily Williams

United Way Announces Campaign Chair

United Way of Central Alabama recently announced that this year’s campaign chair will be Rich Bielen, president and COO of Protective Life Corporation.

According to a press release, the campaign chairman is charged with galvanizing central Alabama to raise resources and support for United Way’s agencies and programs.

Since the late 1990s, Bielen has served the United Way in various financial roles and has personally contributed time and funds to the support system.

“I feel very strongly about helping to continue the good work of the United Way’s agencies and programs that provide outreach similar to the support I have enjoyed,” he said. “In my childhood, people went out of their way to take care of me, and I think that’s what United Way agencies do. They’re all spending time helping people who have an unmet need or providing people with an opportunity to gain important skills.”

Beilen’s concept of community extended beyond the four walls of the home where he grew up in Brooklyn. His next-door neighbor taught him to play chess and became somewhat of an older brother to him. The couple downstairs became his grandparents, the wife teaching him the alphabet, numbers and how to tie his shoes while his immigrant parents adjusted to their new country. Another neighbor noticed his penchant for numbers at 5 years old and suggested he seek a career in accounting.

“Having someone see the talent in me at such a young age really made an impact,” he said.

Beilen said that the man he sees in the mirror today is a reflection of the hard work of his parents and the people in the community who took time to invest in him.

“I was incredibly fortunate that throughout my life people helped me, even when they didn’t have to help,” he said.

According to the United Way, Beilen’s year of campaigning will follow the theme “Together There Will Always Be a Way.”

The campaign will begin June 9 with a Pacesetter Kickoff party and a general campaign kickoff will be held Sept. 8.

For more information, visit www.uwca.org. ❖

Mountain Brook’s Hallman Earns Eagle Scout Rank

Conyers Harris Hallman, a member of the Boy Scout Troop 63 at Canterbury United Methodist Church, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Hallman was recognized during a Court of Honor ceremony March 6 at Canterbury UMC. His grandfather Terry Conn and his uncle Jeffrey Conn were both Eagle Scouts.

Hallman has served in many leadership positions in Troop 63 since receiving his Arrow of Light. He has served in the positions of assistant patrol leader and quartermaster. He earned 22 merit badges and attended a Boy Scout Leadership Conference in August at The University of the South in Sewannee, Tennessee.

For his project, Hallman built a handicap-accessible ramp for the main house of Grace House Ministries, located in Fairfield.

Grace House Ministries is a residential, group home facility serving girls ages 6-21 form the greater Birmingham area on a long-term basis. Through fundraising, Hallman was able to pay for materials to build the ramp, as well as present a check to the organization for $1,500 to be used on other home improvements.

Hallman is a freshman at Woodberry Forest School in Woodberry Forest, Virginia, where he is on the junior varsity lacrosse team. He also sings in the Woodberry Forest boys choir and is a member of the Rod and Gun club. He is the son of Kyle and Heidi

Hallman of Mountain Brook and the grandson of Mrs. Bonnie Conn of Vestavia Hills and Mrs. Phyllis Hallman of Tucson, Arizona.

Mitchell Receives Eagle Scout Honor

Preston Levert Mitchell of Troop 119 has attained the highest achievement awarded by the Boy Scouts of America. Mitchell became a member of the Eagle Scout ranks Aug. 11, 2015, and a Court of Honor ceremony was held Dec. 13 at Somerby 119. Mitchell also is a member of the Order of the Arrow.

For his Eagle project, Mitchell replaced a rotten fence and posts around one of the parking lots at Moss Rock Preserve in Hoover. Additionally, he added two benches to provide a resting place and an opportunity to sit and enjoy the views at Moss Rock.

Mitchell is the son of Lee and Monica Yates Mitchell of Hoover and brother to Lee Mitchell Jr. He is a freshman at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, where he is majoring in computer science. Through the university, Mitchell has been inducted into Abeneefoo Kuo Honor Society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. ❖

Concert is free to the public. Sponsored by the Protective Life Foundation and the Independent Presbyterian Church Foundation. For more information please call (205)767-9219.

Rich Bielen

Conyers Harris Hallman

Preston Levert Mitchell

A real watch for the real world. Tag Heuer Aquaracer with silver dial and stainless steel bracelet, $1500. Bromberg’s, Mountain Brook Village, 871-3276 and The Summit, 969-1776.

For when H2O is a no-no, and you’re on the go-go. Grads, simply slip your tablet or phone inside this protective bag by Tech Candy and worry no more. Snoozy’s Kids, 871-2662.

Great Grad Gift Ideas

Be true to your school with these Smathers & Branson key rings, $28.50. Remon’s Clothier, 977-5512.

Rolling laundry or tailgate bins, $63.95, vinyl monograms available. The Blue Willow, 968-0909.

To celebrate your grad’s occasion, single freshwater pearl necklaces with Czechoslovakian crystals, $46.50 each. Jewels by Rose, 979-5611.

Mont Blanc Meisterstuck Classique ballpoint pen, black precious resin inlaid with Montblanc emblem with a gold-plated clip, for serious grad school note-taking, $420. Barton-Clay 871-7060.

THe SMART CROWd SHOpS lOCAl!

For the stylish graduate, a quatrefoil Mother of Pearl long necklace, $285. John-William Jeweller, 870-4367.

For the graduate that’s going places, Hedgren has perfected the craft of making long-lasting luggage with a focus on functionality. Christine’s on Canterbury, 871-8297.

High school and college grads will appreciate these leather and seed pearl adjustable strap bracelets, starting at $14.00. a.k.a. Girl Stuff, 802-7735.

An antique wooden box makes a treasured graduation gift, $50 and up. Hanna Antique Mall, 323-6036.

Beautiful pottery crosses by Alton Sharick several different glazes available, $34.

For a job well done,

IT Luggage two piece Spinner Set, 29” spinner weighs 6.39 lbs., carry on weighs 4.67 lbs. Available in red, black and purple, graduation sale price - $199.99. Rosenberger’s, 870-0971.

Mulberry Heights Antiques, 870-1300.

South Sea Tahitian Pearl necklace, $275. Estate Jewelers of Mountain Brook at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, 414-8071.

Joe Jr. from Kamado Joe is a premium 13.5” ceramic grill with sturdy stand and built-in thermometer, perfect for college gameday. Alabama Gaslight & Grill, 870-4060.

news

Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Features

Author and Child Advocate

By sarah KupEr

Sponsored by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, the 26th annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast is Tuesday, April 26.

This year’s keynote speaker is author, child advocate and litigation attorney Liz Huntley.

Huntley will share her story of perseverance and determination. Despite a childhood surrounded by drugs in the housing projects in Huntsville, Huntley is a successful lawyer and has published a book telling her story.

“More Than a Bird” chronicles her journey and tells how one teacher made the difference in the direction of her life.

By the time Huntley was 5 years old, her father was in prison and her mother had committed suicide. Both had been drug dealers.

She and her siblings were separated and sent to different homes across the state. Huntley eventually lived with her grandmother and an uncle who abused her.

She said her one lifeline was the opportunity to go to preschool. It was there she learned to read and received much needed care and attention.

The book also profiles people who made a difference in Huntley’s life – people she calls her “angels.”

After graduating from Auburn, Huntley earned her law degree from the University of Alabama.

She has since become a child advocate through her legal work and her efforts to expand

pre-K education to all Alabama 4-year-olds. Huntley also is a member of the Governor’s Task Force on Prevention of Sexual Abuse of Children.

The prayer breakfast is at 7:30 a.m. at the Vestavia Country Club.

Huntley will sign copies of her book, which will be available for purchase. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Alabama School Readiness Alliance and Children’s Village of Birmingham. Advanced tickets are recommended. They can be purchased at the chamber office and through the chamber website for $20. ❖

Former Bama Standout Takes on Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast

By Emily Williams

Retired NFL star and Alabama Sports Hall of Famer Bobby Humphrey will take to the podium rather than the field for the Hoover Beautification Board’s 34th annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on May 3.

“We are very excited about the 2016 Prayer Breakfast and the speaker, my good friend and Hoover resident Bobby Humphrey,” Mayor Gary Ivey said.

In his youth, Humphrey spent football season watching the University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide play at Legion Field where he worked as a vendor. In 1985, his life-long dream came true as he received a scholarship to the university as well as an invitation to play for his favorite team.

He racked up record-breaking stats during his sophomore and junior years and was named to the All-SEC team. After an injury that sidetracked his senior year, he was chosen by the Denver Broncos during the first round of the 1989 supplemental draft. In his rookie season he rushed for more than 1,100 yards and was named AFC Rookie of the Year. He continued his football career with the Miami Dolphins and served as the first head coach for the Birmingham Steeldogs arena football team.

Humphrey has not slowed down since leaving football, he is vice president of business development for Bryant Bank, serves on Hoover’s Parks and Recreation board and manages the Speed City Track Club. An active member of his church, Humphrey enjoys using his civic and business opportunities to spread faith and support to the younger generations.

The Prayer Breakfast, emceed by ABC 33/40’s Brenda Ladun, will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency-Wynfrey Hotel ballroom. Tickets are $25 each or $250 for a table of 10 and can be purchased until April 25 through the Hoover Library’s Library Theatre box office.

For more information, contact Lori SalterSchommer at 444-7588. ❖

Hoover Incumbent Mayor Gary Ivey Announces Candidacy

By Emily Williams

Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey announced April 7 that he is seeking re-election to the post he has held since 2011.

“I’ve lived in Hoover for 33 years. Today I can stand without reservation and say that Hoover is the best city in Alabama to live, work and raise your family,” Ivey told the crowd. “With your support, I plan to make sure it stays that way.”

Ivey, who maintains his position as CEO of Crest Cadillac in Hoover, served seven years on the City Council, including as president, and eight years on the city’s planning and zoning board.

In a press conference attended by government officials and local business representatives who endorsed him, Ivey said he is focused on continuing progress in the city’s public safety, economic development and education arenas.

Public Safety

Backing Ivey in his campaign are Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale and Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego, who both sang praises for the incumbent during the press conference.

Hale said Ivey has done his best to forge a strong line of communication between the county departments and

the city, since Hoover is split between jurisdictions.

According to both sheriffs, crime rates in Hoover are among the lowest in the state and the Hoover Police Department is among the best equipped. Earlier this year, Ivey and the City Council were able to allocate an additional $1.2 million for the Hoover Police Department to hire and train another 10 police officers.

“With Hoover’s help, we have taken millions of dollars of drugs off the streets and kept them out of the communities of Jefferson County,” Hale said.

education

Ivey drew attention to his increased support of Hoover’s educational system and cited a recent budget amendment that allocated an additional $1.2 million to the city’s Board of Education.

“We’ve got wonderful schools,” Ivey said. “We have wonderful teachers, administrators and support personnel, but we cannot grow complacent. This world is constantly changing and we’ve got to keep our schools adequately funded.”

On his website, Ivey states that the city schools have seen heavy growth as job openings attract more families to the area, making it especially important to provide the system with the funds

necessary to support the growing population.

economic develoPment

Ivey said many companies look to Hoover to expand and create new business opportunities. With a conservative business atmosphere, the city can see even more expansion and jobs, he said.

“As a business owner I know what it takes to create jobs,” Ivey said. “I’ve put the lessons I’ve learned in the private sector into opportunities in our government.”

Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall General Manager Joel Smith praised Ivey for his business-related accomplishments.

“He has helped create a businessfriendly environment where companies can grow and create jobs without government interference,” Smith said in a press release.

During the press conference, Smith said Ivey is quick to bring the community together to solve problems rather than keeping issues in the City Council chambers.

So far, Ivey has been challenged for mayor by former Hoover Fire Marshal Frank Brocato. Qualifying ends in July, and the election follows on Aug. 23.

For more information about Ivey’s campaign, visit mayorivey. com. ❖

Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey, center announced his bid for re-election during an April 7 press conference, in which he was joined by supporters including Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego, far left, and Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale, far right.

Photo special to the Journal

u veStavia hillS

Liz Huntley has become a child advocate through her legal work and her efforts to expand pre-K education.

Photo special to the Journal

u hoover

Retired NFL star and Alabama Sports Hall of Famer Bobby Humphrey will take to the podium rather than the field for the Hoover Beautification Board’s 34th annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on May 3.

Photo special to the Journal

Leader in Psychiatry to Speak at Aware Event

By Sarah Kuper

One of the nation’s leading researchers in the field of psychiatry will speak at Aware Mountain Brook’s April 26 event.

Dr. Richard Shelton, head of the UAB Mood Disorders Research Center and vice chair for research in the department, is focusing on two important strategies in treating depression.

He and his colleagues are testing medications that may work more quickly to help suicidal individuals.

“Right now, treatments may take weeks and months before patients see a change. We are working on medications that will work in 24 hours,” he said.

He also is researching a method, called predictive analysis, to improve predictions of who is likely to develop depression disorders.

“Through this information gathering, we would like to find a way to

‘... we would like to find a way to identify if a child is likely to become suicidal or depressed so we can intervene and they never get sick in the first place.’

identify if a child is likely to become suicidal or depressed so we can intervene and they never get sick in the first place,” Shelton said.

As with other emerging medical research, psychiatrists such as Shelton are taking a more proactive approach to preventing depression rather than only reacting with treatment.

Shelton said he will speak on these two developments at the Aware event.

the department, is focusing on two important strategies in treating depression.

Through his talk, he hopes to raise awareness about mental health issues but also to give hope to those affected.

“I want to give people a sense of great encouragement. We have some brand new, exciting data and the treatments we are working on could be widely available in just three or four years,” Shelton said.

He said he knows many people are involved with Aware because of a personal or family member’s experience with depression. Shelton said any medical or community partnership with Aware is critical because it helps reach those affected more personally.

“It is one thing to identify and diagnose someone as depressed but another thing to get them connected to help fast. There is often no time to waste,” he said.

Shelton will speak at 6 p.m. at Crestline Elementary athletic field.

He will also be giving a more detailed review of his research at the UAB Neuroscience Café May 9 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Anglican Church. ❖

u over the Mountain Moon Tree Anchors Botanical Gardens’ Earth Day Celebration

This year’s Earth Day at The Gardens will celebrate the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Moon Tree, born of a seed that traveled into space aboard Apollo 14.

The seeds were taken into space to test the effects of weightlessness on germination, then the trees were planted nationwide as part of the country’s bicentennial celebration.

The Gardens’ sycamore tree, which

grows just above Blount Plaza, now stands 80 feet tall, according to a press release from The Gardens.

The Earth Day celebration will be held April 23, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. During

Alabama’s longest-running Earth Day celebration will be held in the Formal Garden

the event, children can gather under the Moon Tree to make tiny parachutes from coffee filters to mimic the way sycamore seeds float on the wind.

The celebration also will include

exhibitor booths, vendors, free activities and live music from Tommy Ellison. Diamondback terrapins will be featured in the Orientation Room next to Blount Plaza from noon to 2 p.m. Biology professor Dr. Ken Marion will talk about scientists’ efforts to keep the turtles off the endangered species list by raising them in a hatchery at UAB and releasing them back into their natural habitat in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Children’s author and storyteller Claire Datnow will share her adventures while doing research for her book “Operation Terrapin Rescue” in presentations from 1:30 to 2 p.m. and 2 to 2:30 p.m. ❖

ELECTRICAL SAFETY STARTS WITH THE RIGHT CALL

Here are a few very important things you should know about underground power lines and how to work safely around them.

More and more power lines are being buried underground. This poses a considerable threat for both construction workers and do‑it‑yourself homeowners. Even if you’re undertaking a seemingly harmless job, such as digging a hole for a new fence, the risks are still there.

You’ve probably heard the “Call before you dig” mantra many times. But take it to heart, nothing good happens when a shovel plunges into a live power line.

The number to call is easy to remember: 811. Call, preferably 48 hours in advance of your project, and the representative will notify all the appropriate utilities. Pretty easy.

Soon after the call, various technicians will come out and put colored spray paint in the places where there are lines. Below is a chart to explain which one is which.

Please take this simple step before digging. It’s easy. And it’s free. You’ll save a lot of headaches—and maybe even your life.

Barron Jefferson – Lineman, Power Delivery

Dr. Richard Shelton, head of the UAB Mood Disorders Research Center and vice chair for research in

Play to Win

GCasino Night Raises Funds for Suicide Awareness

uests flocked to Regions Field March 19 for the second annual Beat the Odds Casino Night, sponsored by the junior board of the Alabama Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

With more than 550 people in attendance, the junior board raised more than $55,000 to be used toward suicide prevention education and awareness – all while hosting a night to remember.

Inspired by the glitz and glam of Las Vegas, the event pampered guests with a full-service, Vegasstyle casino, delicious hors d’oeuvres and live musical entertainment.

Attendees bid on an array of silent auction items, including an Argentinian dove hunting trip, and purchased glasses of champagne for the opportunity to win a diamond necklace through the Diamonds Direct Diamond Drop.

Raffle prizes included a wheelbarrow full of craft beer and $500 cash. ❖

Photos by Ginnard Archibald.

Beau Carter

Amy and Alex Foreman.

Mallory and Nick Burch.

Hunter Bentley and Kaitlyn Parsons.

Front, from left : Leigh Ellen Black and Katherine Baker. Back: Hunter and Rebekah Hewett, Becca Barganier and Tommy Brown.

The junior board raised more than $55,000 to be used toward suicide prevention education and awareness.

Suprise Party

Aerial Acrobats, Dancing and Cigars Marked Rotaract Party

Guests of the Rotaract Club’s Foundation Ball were greeted with a non-traditional party venue filled with surprises at Christopher House Antiques.

The venue is an older, transformative space, indicative of the club’s commitment to the revitalization of Birmingham.

Guests at the March 12 event donned black-tie attire and were treated to complimentary beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres provided by Kathy G. and Company. Aerial acrobats greeted guests as they entered. Music by The Expandables provided the perfect atmosphere for dancing, mingling and perusing a cigar bar, donated by Vitola Fine Cigars. Henna artists of Blue Lotus Mehndiand decorated guests with temporary body art.

Following the event, an official after-party was held at Tavern on First. ❖

Photos by Andrea Mabry.

From left: Sean Stevens, Christi Schnetzler, and Mary Meadows Livingston.

Above, Madeline Steigerwald and Paige Ishmael. Below, Lauren Floyd, Christian Smith, and Whitney Williams.

Jesse and Anna Unkenholz.

John Miller and Martha Legg Miller.

Catching Up

GoGos Dance Club Welcomes New Officers

The GoGos Dance Club convened recently at the home of member Dorothy Ratliff. The main order of business was to elect officers for the upcoming year, a task handily dispatched by a unanimous vote for the slate.

The 2016 officers are Suzanne Wald, president; Terry McBride, first vice president; Jan Carper, second vice president; Lauren Hayes, secretary; LaVonda Keel, treasurer; Susan Tucker, assistant treasurer; Cindy Crowther, parliamentarian; and Ruthie Ozment, publicity chairman.

Coppelia Crafts Families Gather for Annual Ballet Guild Tea Party

The Ballet Guild of Birmingham held its annual “Tutus and Bowties” tea party April 10 at the Alabama School of Fine Arts.

Guests gathered before the Sunday matinee production of “Coppelia and the Toy Maker.” The children participated in a ballet-themed craft and met with two of the dancers from The Alabama Ballet. Afterward, the children and their parents attended the Alabama Ballet production about a toymaker and his dancing doll.

The Ballet Guild of Birmingham is an invitational organization of young women dedicated to supporting the ballet in Birmingham through fundraising and volunteer work. Since its inception in 1959, the Ballet Guild has raised more than $1 million for the Alabama Ballet.

Two Alabama Ballet dancers with, from left, Anne Banks, Emory Pounds and Parish Pounds.

Afterward, members spent the evening catching up after the winter’s doldrums, admiring their hostesses’ beautiful home. A sumptuous buffet dinner was prepared and served by caterers Kathy G. and Company. ❖

From left: Suzanne Wald, Jan Carper, LaVonda Keel, Lauren Hayes, Terry McBride, Susan Tucker and Ruthie Ozment.

Hanna a ntiques Mall

Schilleci.

Made in Alabama

Friends Gather to Support Civil War Film Project

Arts and business aficionados from the Birmingham community gathered at the home of Kris Childs, owner of iiis. an optical shop, for an afternoon dedicated to a cinematic venture.

Guests were greeted with prosecco tastings, as well as hors d’oeuvres and donuts prepared by Wil Drake of the pop-up shop Hero Donuts.

The gathering was organized in honor of one of Childs’ friends, Whitney Hamilton, and scenes from her upcoming film “Union” were projected onto a large wall screen for guests to enjoy.

Hamilton lives in Brooklyn but returns to her native Alabama to visit her parents in Hoover and for work.

For the past two years, Hamilton, with the help of her husband, has been shooting a film that she has written, stars in, directs and edits. “Union” is a Civil War-era story that chronicles a woman – played by Hamilton – disguising herself as her dead brother, Henry, to fight with the Confederate army.

Along the way, “Henry” sustains an injury in the Battle of Antietam, and a widow – played by Birmingham’s Virginia Newcomb – saves her life. She returns the favor by marrying the widow and saving her from an arranged betrothal.

The two women keep each other’s secrets and form an unusual family that results in an unconventional love story.

“The story started out as a play,” Hamilton said. “We showed it off-Broadway in 2001 and it got a pretty good response from audiences. We were going to move forward with it, but then 9/11 happened and the city pretty much shut down.”

After a long pause and time spent pursuing other ventures as well as penning a book inspired by the play “Firefly,” Hamilton returned to the story. She and her husband invested in new equipment and began casting calls in New York, only to hire Newcomb via video-audition.

Though the film is set in Virginia, Hamilton decided to shoot almost all of it in Alabama, and many of the scenes take place at nearby Tannehill State Park. A multitude of extras in the film’s battle scenes are local Civil War re-enactors. With richly preserved historical sites at her fingertips, Hamilton said it was a no-brainer to film in Alabama – not to mention less expensive.

Through this work, Hamilton seeks to expose the lesser-known facts of the Civil War and give America a legendary female warrior.

“What most people don’t know is that there were over 400 women who fought disguised as men in the Civil War,” Hamilton said. “What I wanted to do with this film was bring several different worlds together that wouldn’t ordinarily be seen.” The film also includes a strong Native American theme, highlighting the culture’s presence in the war.

“At its core, the film is a love story and by the end it becomes a legend that is passed on,” Hamilton said. “It’s a lesson in love conquering all and finding your true soulmate.”

Production of the film has paused as Hamilton works to raise the funds necessary to film the second half of the movie and hire big-name actors.

“Right now, the most pressing issue is filming before our child actor (Vestavia native Tucker Meek) grows too much. He is at the absolute perfect age right now for filming, so we need to get that done as soon as possible,” Hamilton said.

“There’s really no down side to filming in Alabama,” she said. She added that growth in the state’s film industry could bring the state tangible benefits culturally and economically.

If all goes as planned, once Hamilton’s Alabama-made film is complete it will take to the festival circuit in the states and internationally.

For more information on Union, visit union-movie. com. ❖

Birmingham native’s Virginia Newcomb and Whitney Hamilton arre the lead actors in the film “Union.”

Journal photos by Emily Williams

Preuit Holland and Liesa Cole.

From left: Gail Bayer and Whitney Hamilton.

Martha Myers Council, Michael Anderson and Betsy Mathews.

Symphonic Salute

Lois Pickard Scholarship Winners Honored at Luncheon

Members of the Symphony Volunteer Council of the Alabama Symphonic Association and their guests gathered Feb. 18 at the Vestavia Country Club for the annual Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Luncheon in honor of the 2016 scholarship winners.

Luncheon chairs were Janet Lauer, Tonie Bone and Rosa Minehan Herb Rossmeisl designed and wrote the program for the luncheon, which was preceded by a silent auction and a performance by the first and second place scholarship winners in piano, strings and brass/ woodwinds/percussion.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Fund, which has allowed the council to award more than $110,300 in scholarships since 1995, including the Lois Pickard Summer Camp Scholarships to outstanding young musicians.

The vice presidents of education, Jody Weston, Debbie Reid, Mimi Jackson and Linda Griggs, facilitated the 2016 Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Competition, which was held Jan. 23 at the Hill Center at Birmingham-Southern College.

Sixteen talented contestants performed for a chance to win first and second place awards in three performance categories: piano, strings and brass/woodwinds/percussion. In piano, Dina Kasman placed first and Fion Chang placed second. In strings, cellist Raymond Tsai placed first and violinist Lydia Newton placed second. In brass/woodwinds/ percussion first place winner Nathan Stephenson played the French horn and second place winner was clarinetist Hannah Bostick.

The first place awards are $1,000 and second place awards are $500. Dr. Blake Richardson, music director of the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra and overall judge for the competition, recognized

From top: DeLon Charley with accompaniment. Cuinn and Kristie Morgen with Blair Lanier. Andrea Williams and Tracy Chew.

Gee’s and Jazz Grand Bohemian Gallery Hosts Artistic Quilter

Guests gathered at the Grand Bohemian Gallery in Mountain Brook on March 24 for more than just a drink or two. Claudia Pettway Charley, a Gee’s Bend quilter represented in the gallery, brought her needles and thread for a quilting demonstration.

The Gee’s Bend quilters are a group of women from a small, predominantly black community in Alabama who have been quilting masterpieces since the early 20th century. The art form has been passed down through generations in the small town; both Charley’s mother and grandmother were quilters.

A book about the history of the group, written by Charley’s grandmother, Tinnie Pettway, was on sale along with authentic quilts and quilt squares.

As patrons enjoyed a cash bar and light hors d’oeuvres, they were also given the chance to help stitch a Gee’s Bend quilt with Charley.

Photo

Cheree Carlton and Curt Long.

Journal

photos by Emily Williams

Jeff Haddox, President and CEO of Sight Savers America, left, presents the Third Annual Hall W. Thompson Hero For Sight Award to Tommy Lowder on behalf of the Monday Morning Quarterback Club/Crippled Children’s Foundation.

Awarding Works

Monday Morning Quarterback Club Scores Hero for Sight Award

The Monday Morning Quarterback Club was this year’s winner of the Hall W. Thompson Hero for Sight Award.

The club operates a charitable foundation, the Crippled Children’s Foundation. The club received the award for its strong commitment to helping improve children’s eye care in Alabama and for its long-term support of the mission and work of Sight Savers America, according to a news release from Sight Savers America.

The release stated that the club has helped provide eye exams, eyeglasses, specialized eye care treatment, hightech vision aids and other life-changing treatments to more than 10,000 Alabama children.

Sight Savers America presented the award to the club during a luncheon in March at Regions Field, attended by more than 250 people, including eye care, corporate and community leaders from across the state. Vulcan Value Partners was the presenting sponsor for this year’s event.

Jeff Haddox, founder and CEO of Sight Savers America, said in the release that the club and its foundation “embody exactly what this award is all about.”

Sight Savers America’s award is

Sandner-Dew

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Edward Sandner III of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Sally Wallace Sandner, to Dustin Ashley Dew, son of Mrs. Michael Lynn Kelly and the late Mr. Ricky Kenneth Dew of Sanford, North Carolina.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. Andrew Corbett Scott and the late Mrs. Barbara Ann Heard Scott of Birmingham and Mrs. Joseph Edward Sandner Jr. and the late Mr. Joseph Edward Sandner Jr. of

named for Hall W. Thompson, who was a business leader, served on the board of Sight Savers America and had a profound impact on the organization and on children’s vision issues in Alabama.

Sight Savers America commemorated this year’s award with an original painting by Amy Monthei, a nationally known artist from Honolulu who is visually impaired. Monthei spoke during the luncheon and unveiled the painting.

The Hall W. Thompson Hero for Sight Award is permanently displayed on a 25-foot-long tribute wall in the first floor lobby of the UAB Callahan Eye Hospital. The tribute space includes permanent recognition for award recipients along with the current year’s commemorative artwork. Monthei’s painting will be displayed there for one year before being auctioned next year. A new painting will then be unveiled and displayed at the hospital for one year.

Sight Savers America is an Alabama-based nonprofit that was founded in 1997. Its mission is to identify and secure treatment for unmet vision and health needs that impede a child’s ability to succeed in school and in life. Sight Savers America serves more than 60,000 children each year through four programs. For more information, visit sightsaversamerica.org. ❖

Birmingham.

Miss Sandner is a graduate of Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, where she received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She received her master’s degree in education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Miss Sandner was a member of the Debutante Club of Birmingham and was presented at the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball, the Ball of Roses, the Heritage Ball and the Redstone Ball. Miss Sandner is a chemistry teacher at Vestavia Hills High School in Birmingham.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Edward Dew of Sanford and Mrs. Ida Elizabeth Phelps and the late Mr Franklin Dewitt Herring of Sanford.

Mr. Dew is a graduate of Appalachian State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in health promotion. He received a master’s degree in health education and promotion from East Carolina University. He is employed with the UAB/Lakeshore Research Collaborative at Lakeshore Foundation in Birmingham.

The wedding will be June 18.

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

by Jeffrey Butler

What they fail to tell you when they hand you that certificate is it’s time to become RESPONSIBLE! By this time you have a driver’s licence and now the next level of achievement. For some college is next and is just an extension of high school, it was for me. But reality is someone should prepare young people better for assuming the RESPONSIBILITY of his or her future. This is where we lose many in addiction. Maybe it begins in high school with the ‘experimenting’ . There are millions of “What if’s”, but reality is how do we help our young people “Graduate” into life without becoming a statistic. Many times we have said that “we don’t choose addiction” -no one does. But how one deals with life issues is where it begins whether it’s with pain or just simply dealing with the day to day issues. Addiction can happen to anyone. Those who are most vuneralble are the young ones Graduating and trying to live up to the expectations of others. Frankly, to have those expectations only brings out the best in us as human nature will take the easier route when given the option. So I’m not excusing the addict for taking a break from reality - been there done that - but at some point you have to wake up and take responsibilty for yourself and those that might depend on you. Graduate into Life!

Photos

Morgan Robinson and Jackie Wood.

Teresa Hamm, Alabama Eye Bank.

On With the Show

Decorators’ ShowHouse Will Be Open Through Sunday

You’ve still got a few days left to see the 2016 edition of the Decorators’ ShowHouse.

The ShowHouse, the former home of Katherine and Bill McTyeire, closes April 24.

The Old Leeds Road house is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m.

Tickets are $20 at the door. The fundraiser benefits the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

There’s no parking at the house. A shuttle service runs from Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church, 3405 Brookwood Road. The last shuttle leaves for the ShowHouse one hour before it closes each day.

Visitors can tour the house and gardens and visit the Symphony Shop, where handmade items from Birmingham-area artisans, antiques and other items are sold.

The DSH Café is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.alabamasymphony.org/svc.htm.

– Donna Cornelius

City Living on Showcase

Loft Tour Shows off an Urban Lifestyle

PA ge 30

Pretty in Pink

Cyndy Cantley’s ShowHouse Kitchen Has Tasteful Surprises

By Donna Cornelius

Cyndy Cantley knows her way around a kitChen.

The designer, who owns Cantley and Company with her husband, Keith, frequently is the go-to person for Birmingham-area homeowners who want to update a kitchen or cook up a brand new one. Thus, it’s no surprise which room Cantley designed for this year’s Decorators’ ShowHouse.

It’s been a while since Cantley participated in the Alabama

Dolled Up: Jean Clayton’s ShowHouse Bedroom Has a Playful Addition.... PAGE 26

Symphony Orchestra fundraiser, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. But she was eager to put her talents to work in the kitchen of the McTyeire house on Old Leeds Road, she said.

“This is a fabulous house,” she said. “ShowHouses are fun to do. And it’s for the symphony, which I’ve always loved.”

Cantley said one of her goals for the kitchen was to honor the style of the house.

“I wanted the kitchen to be as pretty as the rest of the house, as lovely and elegant, but still livable,” she said.

The room isn’t as large as many of the cavernous kitchens

See pretty in pink, page 28

Scoping Out the Pads

60th Annual Parade of Homes begins April 22 PA ge 32

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

Cyndy Cantley installed a scaled-down, marble-topped island in the Decorators’ ShowHouse kitchen.

‘I bought it (dollhouse) in Atlanta about 40 years ago for my oldest daughter. A lot of people have played with it over the years.’

By Donna Cornelius

When Jean Clayton of Christine’s on Canterbury designed an upstairs bedroom and bathroom for the Decorators’ ShowHouse, she brought along another complete dwelling place – for dolls.

The three-story dollhouse has been in her family for quite a while, she said.

“I bought it in Atlanta about 40 years ago for my oldest daughter,” Clayton said. “A lot of people have

played with it over the years.”

The dollhouse was displayed for several years in Christine’s windows at Christmastime, she said.

A peek inside shows a “lighted”

Jean Clayton For More Information Please Contact Diane Godber (205)

fire in the fireplace, an iron canopy bed like one that belonged to Clayton’s daughter, a stack of gifts from Saks Fifth Avenue, and handpainted sailboats on the headboard of a boy’s bed.

“I had these linens hand-done in Madeira,” Clayton said, pointing to the pillowcases and sheets on one elegant little bed, “and the drapery and bed skirt fabric is from Mary McFadden’s 1960s collection.”

An honest-to-goodness brick mason laid the bricks around the exte-

rior of the house, she said.

In the dollhouse kitchen, a cat perches on a countertop while a dog jealously looks up at it. The house’s residents evidently are good cooks; there’s a miniature Julia Child cookbook.

“I wanted to have fun with the kitchen,” Clayton said.

The dollhouse has been a captivating project that’s been added to over the years.

“Everybody that’s worked with me had something to do with it,” Clayton

said. “And I used Mary Charles Doll House in Mountain Brook. What she didn’t have, she’d order for me.”

While the dollhouse is fascinating, its surroundings are equally appealing.

Clayton said she designed the ShowHouse bedroom “for a girl about 8 to 10 – but something she could grow with.”

White twin beds with elaborate gesso floral baskets on the footboards stand out against the room’s pale blue walls.

“Everybody seems to be smitten with that color,” Clayton said.

On the beds are Yves Delorme coverlets with a wisteria pattern and crisp white sheets trimmed in purple. Brenda Dailey made oval medallions with bisque flower baskets to hang over the beds.

“The beds are antique French ones that came out of Canada,” Clayton said. “The gesso details are amazing.”

Little girls likely will love the fluffy white rug – and the furry stuffed dog sprawled on one of the beds. Like the dollhouse, the toy belongs to Clayton. It’s so realistic that it’s startled many a ShowHouse visitor.

“I guess the dog is a girl, because she’s got a pink bow,” Clayton said. “She’s moved from ShowHouse to ShowHouse.”

A colorful MacKenzie-Childs ottoman and artwork by Birmingham artist Carrie Pittman make the room youthful and vibrant. Pittman’s painting, an abstract with splashes of color on a white background, was painted and then lacquered, Clayton said.

In the nearby bathroom, the designer chose not to remove the existing wallpaper with its design of ribbons and tassels.

“It was so pretty I didn’t want to touch it,” Clayton said.

The bathroom’s carpet was replaced with sisal, and Clayton brought in a useful piece that she filled with towels, pillows and extra bed linens.

“We think it’s a portmanteau,” she said. “Its shelves could have held hats, and the rods may have held coats. It could have been in a

or

Jean Clayton’s ShowHouse Bedroom Has a Playful Addition

Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

Bluff Park WindoW Works

that are so popular today. But that didn’t pose any problems for Cantley.

“This kitchen is square, which is unusual, but I often work with smaller spaces because we do so much remodeling work,” she said.

Cantley and her team completely gutted the kitchen, but the only structural change they made was enlarging the opening to the adjoining breakfast room.

“People have different lifestyles

today,” she said. “They don’t want to be shut away in the kitchen.”

Cantley also kept modern families in mind by installing a small-scale island in the center of the room.

“Everyone loves islands,” she said. “That’s where the kids come and sit after school to eat or do their homework. This is a built-in island, and we squeezed three seats around it.”

Cantley chose a cowhide bar stool – “You can’t hurt it,” she said – and a slip-covered bench for seating around the island. Above, there’s a striking light fixture made by Julie Neill Designs in New Orleans.

“Julie let me borrow it,” Cantley said.

On the island’s white Calcutta marble top are monogrammed pink table linens with a pagoda design.

“Pink’s probably not a typical color for kitchens,” Cantley said. The color was pulled from the Scalamandre fabric of the valance.

“The fabric kind of started the whole thing,” Cantley said. She brought another shade of

pink to the party by putting raspberry grasscloth panels behind the shelves of new built-in cabinets, which have glass doors. There, she’s displayed china from her own collection. Also unexpected are the doors that hide the Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer. The antique mirror doors have brass lion’s head pulls that were made in England.

Parker Creek Area - Large private cabin with great living areas inside & out.

“I’ve never done these kinds of doors before, but we wanted to show something new,” Cantley said. “And I’ve always loved brass.”

Cantley and her team completely gutted the kitchen, but the only structural change they made was enlarging the opening to the adjoining breakfast room.

Mirrored sconces on each side of the kitchen window “were the first thing I picked for the room,” she said.

The Wolf range has six burners, a griddle and two convection ovens. On the counter beside the handsome appliance is a silver tray that holds olive oil, sea salt and other cooking necessities.

“Use your stuff,” Cantley said. “I use my sterling silver every day.”

The designer carried that philosophy over to her other ShowHouse space: the laundry room. There, another silver tray holds posh detergents and a decanter filled with a thick blue liquid.

“It’s Downy,” Cantley said, smiling.

Above the washer and dryer is a Hunt Slonem rabbit painting. The

countertop is the same Calcutta marble that’s in the kitchen.

“When you buy a slab of marble, it’s yours, and what’s left over usually goes in your basement or back to the seller,” Cantley said. “You might as well use it.”

On one wall of the laundry room are open wooden lockers with plenty of room for jackets, backpacks and sports equipment.

“We’ve found that if you put doors on lockers, kids don’t use them,” Cantley said.

The lockers are painted the same charcoal gray as the walls of the room.

Another practical element is the deep sink, which is big enough for washing clothes, dogs and even small (and muddy) children.

Cantley said she and her husband were still newlyweds the first time they were asked to participate in the Decorators’ ShowHouse.

“It was Jimmy Blake’s house on Stratford (Road),” she said. “My husband was building cabinets in his parents’ basement. We’d been married about three months. Now, we’ve been married 24 years.”

The project helped get Cantley and Company off to a successful start, she said.

“I’ll always be indebted to the ShowHouse,” Cantley said.

Cantley and Company is at 2821 2nd Ave. South in Birmingham. For more information, visit cantleyandcompany.com or follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ❖

Our newest Essex Model offers you all the elegant style, luxurious features and comfortable open spaces for today’s active family lifestyle. Plus, Liberty Park offers our highly rated Liberty Park Elementary and Middle Schools right in the heart of our Classic American Hometown. Hurry! New Homes Now Ready for Immediate Move-In. Plus, more new homes coming for May Move-Ins.

Artwork by Hunt Slonem stands out against the laundry room’s charcoal gray walls.

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City Living on Showcase

Loft Tour Shows off an Urban Lifestyle

By Sarah Kuper

There is no doubt downtown Birmingham is reinventing itself block by block.

City officials, private businesses and activists are investing in green spaces, renovating old buildings and recruiting festivals and entertainment.

One development bringing a new face to areas of downtown is the emergence of urban living, especially luxury loft condominiums.

To showcase the availability and amenities of a more metropolitan lifestyle, H2 Real Estate is organizing a downtown loft tour April 30.

The event will be a self-guided

walking tour including 14 downtown residential and business spaces.

“We are seeing a whole new life in downtown. People are building a community down here,” said Louise Kidd, marketing director at H2 Real Estate. “With new attractions like Railroad Park, Regions Field and the Rotary Trail, downtown is becoming the place to be.”

Kidd said there is something for everyone when it comes to urban living, but she is particularly seeing an influx of young people and empty nesters.

She said loft apartments within walking distance to parks, restaurants and entertainment are especially

attractive to people craving a flexible and low-maintenance lifestyle.

That way of life is exactly what attracted Lacy and Ben Beasley to buy a loft downtown.

The couple has lived and rented apartments in large cities across the southeast, including Nashville and Atlanta, but they have settled in downtown Birmingham because of the ease and excitement it offered.

“To have all the amenities we desire in an affordable location has made the quality of life we have in Birmingham exceed all our previous experiences,” Lacy Beasley said.

The Beasley’s third floor loft is near the City Federal and the

‘To have all the amenities we desire in an affordable location has made the quality of life we have in Birmingham exceed all our previous experiences.’

Lacy Beasley

by Ginnard Photography

Photos

‘We are

seeing

a whole new life in downtown. People are building a community down here.’

Louise Kidd, marketing director at H2 Real Estate

Florentine buildings in Birmingham’s city center. The 1,100-square-foot space has high ceilings and a mixture of concrete, stone, wood and metal industrial-style accents.

Large windows flood the loft with light and allow the couple to watch the city life below.

“Downtown Birmingham has a fantastic energy and the residents have created their own welcoming and open community,” Lacy Beasley said, “It’s wonderful to be a part of the changing landscape with all the

public and private investments that have changed the area in a positive way.”

Lacy Beasley is the president and COO of Retail Strategies, LLC, a retail real estate strategy consulting firm.

Though busy with careers, the couple enjoys golf, travel, concerts and new restaurants. They make the most of their downtown life by walking to trendy restaurants, parks and entertainment venues.

If they decide to spontaneously

take a trip out of town, their loft location is conducive to their flexible lifestyle.

“We can leave the loft one hour before flight time, making it to the airport and through security in plenty of time to grab a snack at Jim ‘N Nick’s,” Lacy Beasley said.

Because all they need is in walking distance, including their workplaces, the Beasley’s have only one car but three bikes.

Kidd hopes the downtown loft

tour will show others the perks of a lifestyle like Lacy and Ben Beasley’s.

In addition to the tour of 14 lofts, the event will bring downtown businesses and vendors together to showcase the many opportunities downtown. In the parking lot adjacent to H2 Real Estate, where the tour begins, food trucks, retail merchants and even a downtown gym will set up to demonstrate what they bring to the urban scene.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through H2 Real Estate.

Net proceeds of the tour will go to REV Birmingham, an organization dedicated to working with the business community and city leaders to create sustainable communities throughout Birmingham’s downtown.

Organizers are expecting 300 to 500 attendees.

For more on the event contact Louise Kidd at 583-5007. ❖

At RealtySouth, real estate doesn’t simply equate to hard negotiation and paperwork. For us, it’s more than a transaction. It’s the relationship that matters most. For more than 60 years, we’ve been running in the same crowds. If I look familiar, it’s not necessarily because I sold your parent’s home. We live on the same block near the coolest lemonade stand. We fish and ski the same lake. Our children have been teammates for years. Your community is our community. We are proud to be your neighbor.

It’s Who We Are.

Brian's Flooring + Design Now Open in Lakeview

Early Days

Bailey’s Decorating Center, Inc. was established in 1988 by former owner Jerry Bailey.

Operating solely as a retail paint store, Bailey grew the business to include floor covering, blinds, and wallpaper in addition to paint. In September 1995, Bailey sold the paint portion of the business and in 1996 sold the remaining business to Brian McCarver and Brian Hammonds, the current co-owners, above.

At that time Brian and Brian began establishing the business as an aggressive company that strived for perfection on the sales floor and carry that idea throughout the installation.

"We value each customer and are committed to serving all of their flooring and tile needs. We are proud of our personal customer service and earned excellent reputation within the community," said Brian Hammonds.

Expansion

In February of 2001 Brian and Brian moved the business to a new location in McCalla. Business increased immediately due to the move and has increased steadily since. The business was expanded once more when they opened the Valleydale location in May of 2013.

In the Spring of 2015, Brian and Brian added a third store in the Lakeview District of downtown Birmingham. In addition, the company headquarters were relocated to the Lakeview store from McCalla. Brian’s Flooring officially hosted a Grand Opening of this new location on October 22, 2015.

CommitmEnt

"Total customer satisfaction is the goal of every employee at Brian’s Flooring and Design and will continue to be as we continue to increase sales and growth," said Brian McCarver.

"With three locations throughout the Birmingham metro area in Lakeview, Hoover and McCalla, we serve both residential and commercial customers.

"Our Showrooms offer a wide variety of flooring and tile. We offer lifetime labor warranty on all of our installations," said Brian Hammonds.

60th

Annual Parade of

Homes begins April 22

By Sarah Kuper

The 2016 Parade of Homes offers something for everyone, according to Sarah Drexler, director of communications at the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

The parade includes 50 houses in 17 Birmingham-area neighborhoods, ranging in value from $200,000 to $1 million dollars and in size from 1,000 square feet to almost 5,000 square feet.

“The homes this year are a good representation of the housing market in Birmingham. It showcases the quality available here. These homes are the best of the best.”

The parade includes 50 houses in 17 Birmingham-area neighborhoods.

Drexler said the parade allows local builders to show their abilities, but it also gives visitors a chance to see the latest trends in decor.

“The distressed wood look is very in style right now – whether cabinets or furniture,” she said. “People are paying more attention to smaller rooms like mudrooms or accents like fireplaces.”

The “white, light, bright” look is still en vogue for kitchens and bathrooms.

Birmingham-area builders with houses in the parade include: J. Wright Building Co., Kadco Homes, Harris Doyle Homes Inc. and Eddleman Residential LLC, to name a few.

To: Tim

Neighborhoods with houses on display include Ross Bridge, Ballantrae, Grey Oaks and Highland

Scoping Out the Pads

Lakes.

The 2016 Ideal Home will be in Vestavia Hills on Altadena Park Lane. The house is designed by J. Wright Building Co.

The house features “smart” technology, including high-tech thermostats and touch-screen locks, plus traditional trim work and coffered ceilings.

The home has a wrap-around porch and other Southern touches such as rustic beams and sliding barn doors.

The association has partnered with Southern Living for this year’s Ideal Home. The house will feature the Southern Living line of furnish-

From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246

Date: April 2016

ings and décor, and landscaping will include products from their plant line.

The event is scheduled for the weekends of April 22-24 and April 29-May 1. The houses will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NTAiN JOurNAl for the April 21, 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

For more information, including a map of all the houses, visit birminghambuilder.com/events. ❖

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. f 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.

Top: The association has partnered with Southern Living for this year’s Ideal Home. The house will feature the Southern Living line of furnishings and décor, and landscaping will include products from their plant line. Above: Birmingham-area builders with houses in the parade include Kadco Homes.

Photos special to the Journal

Southern Charm, Modern Vibe Makeover Transforms

By Sarah Kuper

A facelift for a Mountain Brook area apartment complex is giving the Sharpsburg neighborhood a muchneeded update.

Previously known as the Enclave at Mountain Brook, the apartments had fallen into disrepair and neighboring communities reported an uptick in crime as a result of the deteriorating buildings.

In 2008, more than 20 units were destroyed in a fire.

In 2013, California-based development company Heller Stone acquired the apartments with the intent of creating an upscale environment for tenants wanting to “have it all.”

Officials with property management firm Arlington Property said they have high hopes for the complex, citing the growth of the Avondale, Crestwood and Irondale areas.

Tammy Wyble, president of Arlington’s property management division, said the improved Retreat at Mountain Brook will be an asset to the neighborhood, and she believes it will add to property values in the area.

“The renovation has brought positive energy to the area. The community has embraced it and has become interested in being a part of the revitalization,” she said.

Developers, who describe the

Mountain Brook Area Apartments

kitchens and dining terraces,

The grounds and landscaping at the complex also have been curated to blend with the surrounding neighborhoods.

One- to three-bedroom floor plans are available, with some units offering a sunroom. Terrace-level units also have a yard.

Rent ranges from $950 to $1,800. To see floorplans and learn more about living at the Retreat, visit retreatatmountainbrook.net. ❖

complex as having “Southern charm with a modern vibe,” created larger units with new finishes, including

stainless appliances, and ample closet space.

Birmingham in a Box

Local Company Ships Birmingham Goodies Across the Country

By Sarah Kuper

From Jim ‘n Nick’s cheddar biscuits to Bud’s Best Cookies, some things are just better in Birmingham.

That’s why local entrepreneur Nick Goudreau is trying to make Birmingham specialties easily available all over the U.S. and beyond.

‘Birmingham is one of those cities that people have a heart for. If they have to move away, they genuinely miss the one-of-a-kind things here.’

His business, Birmingham Box, is taking a cue from the novelty gift-giving “box” industry, in which customers can customize themed boxes to give as gifts to others or themselves.

Through the website, customers can choose from nearly 20 Birmingham specialty items to create a box of five to 10 local favorites.

Goudreau said that when an order comes in, he and his partners try to get the shipment off within 48 hours.

Though Goudreau is an Atlanta native, he has fallen in love with Birmingham since graduating from Auburn.

“Birmingham is one of those cities that people have a heart for. If they have to move away, they genuinely miss the one-of-a-kind things here,” he said.

Birmingham Box began almost two years ago when Goudreau and a few friends got together to build a website and approach local businesses about including their signature products.

“For some people, starting a new business is stressful and a chore but for me it is a fun hobby that is becoming more serious,” Goudreau said.

Nick Goudreau is trying to make Birmingham specialties easily available all over the U.S. and beyond. Goudreau is currently working with the Lane Parke Apartments in Mountain Brook Village. The complex uses a Birmingham Box as a leasing gift for newly signed residents.

Goudreau has shipped boxes all over the U.S. and even to military bases overseas.

His next goal is to break into a higher volume order industry.

“We would love to work with the wedding industry – great gifts for out-of-town guests or favors,” he said.

Goudreau is currently working with the Lane Parke Apartments in Mountain Brook Village. The complex uses a Birmingham Box as a leasing gift for newly signed residents.

Goudreau handpicks items he thinks will do well in the boxes.

So far, most items are food products such as Golden Flake potato chips and Bud’s Best Cookies, or specialty condiments such as BBQ sauces, spice rubs or coleslaw dressings.

“Some businesses see it as a marketing

idea to get their product out to new people or to engage people that have moved away,” Goudreau said.

Soon Goudreau will begin offering higherend items like T-shirts and ball caps.

In the next five years, Goudreau hopes to expand the business to other cities, but not just anywhere.

“It works for unique places – cities where people fall in love with the city or they grew up there and they have to move away, or they want to show it off to friends.”

He gives Austin, Texas, and Savannah, Georgia, as examples.

For a full list of available products or to inquire about including a product in the boxes, visit thebirminghambox.com.

Boxes start at $35 with shipping included. ❖

Smart Business Impact America Raises Money With

Corporate Trivia Tournament

By Sarah Kuper

Birmingham-based non-profit Impact America is organizing a trivia event pitting local companies against each other for a good cause.

Money made from the event will go toward the missions of Impact America and the charity of the winners’ choosing.

The tournament is April 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Old Car Heaven.

Companies and non-profits can sponsor teams of two to six employees. A sponsorship for one team costs $1,000. It is $2,000 for a company to field two teams and $5,000 for three teams.

Competitors must be employees of the company unless the business has fewer than 10 employees, in which case significant others may also compete.

The competition will include three, ninequestion rounds played by all companies. After three rounds, the field will narrow to the top five teams.

Any assistance from cell phones or other technology is strictly forbidden.

Trivia topics include current events, arts and culture, sports, science, geography and history.

The winning team will be able to donate $10,000 to the charity of their choosing.

So far, more than 40 companies have teams registered.

Impact America is a locally based nonprofit with an increasingly national reach. Its mission is to harness the power of young people to address social needs affecting disadvantaged populations.

Impact America supports vision care, college preparedness, tax preparation and academic debate teams.

Beginning as Impact Alabama, the nonprofit now has a presence in Tennessee, Florida, South Carolina and Pennsylvania.

To register a team or to learn more about Impact America, visit impactamerica.com/ trivia. ❖

Children’s of Alabama CEO Talks Impact

Mike Warren, CEO of Children’s of Alabama, updated the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce on the hospital and its Impact Fund during a luncheon April 12 at Vestavia Hills Country Club.

According to statistics he shared, the hospital annually conducts 675,000 outpatient visits, 24,450 surgeries and 71,000 emergency room visits.

“To put it in perspective, last night was a slow night for us. Only 189 patients were seen last night,” Warren said.

Children’s is Alabama’s only free-standing pediatric hospital and serves patients from across the state. Warren described the hospital building

on Southside, the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children, as a one-stop shop for pediatric medicine, since it works closely with UAB Hospital. Since moving pediatric organ transplant surgeries from UAB to the Russell hospital, Children’s has performed more than 90 transplants.

Warren said the non-profit hospital has the budget to cover staff and equipment that is used regularly, including five pediatric neurosurgeons and six pediatric rheumatologists, but it depends on the Impact Fund for the extras.

“We wanted to create a fund to handle things that weren’t in the annual budget,” Warren said. So, when staff at the hospital said they wanted

the Cadillac of neonatal dialysis machines, the Impact Fund delivered. Warren said he also was happy to use the funds to fill a request from Dr. Jim Kirklin, who entered his office one day and asked that the hospital purchase two Berlin hearts. The small machine, which sells for $100,000, keeps a child’s heart pumping while they wait for a donated organ.

Warren showed a photo of Jayden, the first Berlin heart recipient at Children’s.

“As amazing as I think Children’s is as an asset, as ironic as it is, we always say we hope you never need us. But, if there is a need, then thank God it’s here,” Warren said.

– Emily Williams

James Robinson, chairman of the board for the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce; Karen Odle, president and CEO for the chamber; Donnie Dobbins, chamber board member; Mike Warren, CEO of Children’s of Alabama; and Vestavia Hills Mayor Butch Zaragoza.

Journal photo by Sarah Kuper

Journal photo by Emily Williams

Vestavia Hills Welcomes Vintage Barber Shop

This past November, Brian Maxcy saw the result of a big career change culminate with the opening of The Vintage Barber Shop in Vestavia Hills.

Maxcy’s career before opening the shop with professional barbers Philip Anderson and Angie Hancock was in insurance. Though he doesn’t cut hair himself, Maxcy said he has always enjoyed the experience of a classic barber shop.

On a regular visit to his barber shop to take his sons for a haircut, he made the decision to get Hancock’s phone number and did not give an exact reason for needing it. Nonetheless, Maxcy said Hancock wasn’t surprised at all when he gave her a call asking to open a new shop.

Lovette Construction in Vestavia Hills recently won Best in Show at the Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards.

Best in Show is the highest honor presented at the AREA Awards. The winner is selected from among the top four highest-scoring entries in the competition. Lovette won the top honor this year for its Redmont Historic Preservation project.

“We are very excited and honored to have received the Best in Show award at the AREA banquet,” Lovette said. “These awards are very special to us because the projects are judged by our peers in the industry. There is no better recognition we can receive than to have

an expert in our field recognize the hard work our team puts into these projects.”

The Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards, presented by the Home Builders Association of Alabama, were presented to remodelers, contractors, kitchen and bath designers and other building professionals

“We are so proud of Clint (Lovette) and his team,” said Alicia Vincent, executive officer of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. “Their hard work and professionalism is evident in each and every one of their jobs. Winning this award gives the public a chance to see their dedication, hard work and craftsmanship.” ❖

“All three of us were looking for something different to do but never found the right fit,” Maxcy said. “God really had his hand in this thing from the beginning.”

Maxcy said there are few real barbershops in the Birmingham area and even fewer in Vestavia Hills, so there was definitely a need to be filled.

“Men like the feel of a barbershop versus a salon where people are coloring hair and getting their nails done,” said Jeff Templinsy, another barber at the shop.

Anderson said their goal for the shop was to create an atmosphere where men could go and get a good haircut, watch some television – maybe a ball game – and relax.

The shop is located in The Shoppes at City Hall. It will have a tent at the Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary Club’s

We’re noW accepting applications/ resumes for the folloWing positions:

• Dining Room Manager

• Executive Chef (or Chef)

• Housekeepers

• Intern Activities Assistant

• PT Driver (CDL)

• PRN Front desk Concierge/Security

• Part-time and Fulltime Servers and Dietary Aides

Interested applicants can apply in person at: 3850 Galleria Woods Drive Birmingham, AL 35244 or online at www.brookdalecareers.com.

annual First Responder’s Celebration April 25. The staff will hold a ribboncutting ceremony through the Vestavia

Hills Chamber of Commerce June 16 at noon. – Emily Williams

Left to right: Lovette Construction officials Karen Bartlett, operations manager; Jeremy Harmon, project manager; Clint Lovette, president; Chris Stine, superintendent; and Elizabeth Kennedy, designer.

Vestavia’s Lovette Construction Takes Best in Show in Alabama Remodeling Awards

Brian Maxcy, far right, recently opened The Vintage Barber Shop in Vestavia Hills along with barbers Angie Hancock, front, and Philip Anderson, far left, as well as staff members Jasmine Waldrop and Jeff Templinsy, center.

Photo special to the Journal

Journal

photo by Emily Williams

Bring Your Rep to School

Vestavia Hills High School Hosts Legislators, PTO Members

By Sarah Kuper

Vestavia Hills High School teacher Jennifer Brown was named Alabama’s Teacher of the Year last May.

As such, Brown has served as the official spokeswoman for Alabama public school teachers for nearly a year. She has engaged other teachers across the state, and now Brown is trying to include local legislators and PTO members in the dialogue, especially since the current legislative session includes about 50 educationrelated bills.

“We are all in this together – parents, teachers, legislators. We should only be asking, ‘Is this good for the kids?’” Brown said.

In the past few weeks, several state legislators from Over the Mountain areas accepted Brown’s invitation to witness the daily operations of the public schools they represent.

Brown said it is important to give lawmakers a current look at what happens in the classroom and to establish teachers as a resource to policymakers.

“It hit me that, if we want to be viewed as educational experts, we need to bring people into the classrooms so they can see what their policies affect,” Brown said.

Visitors included Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills; Rep. Jack Williams, R-Vestavia Hills; Rep. Matt Fridy, R-Shelby County; and Rep. David Faulkner, R-Mountain

Team Homewood Recognizes Newest Members

Team Homewood, a leadership program for young women athletes grades 9 to 11 at Homewood High School, recently named its newest members.

The members of this year’s class and their team activity are: Katy Grace Bateman, cross country; Ellie Burkhalter, volleyball; Hannah Crocker, softball; Kalia Cunningham, basketball; Kathleen Daniel, golf; Ann Gartman, cheerleading; Taylor Gurram, volleyball; Jessica Harbin, soccer; Mary Elizabeth Harrison, swimming; Caroline Lawrence, track and field; Kate Lumis, swimming; Millie Grace Malek, star spangle dance; Mary Grace Pitts, star spangle dance; Venice Sanders, softball; Maggie Sexton, cross country; Grace Smith, golf; Margaret Truitt, soccer; Ajah Wayne, basketball; Ann Mosley Whitsett, track and field; and Lucy Williams,

cheerleading.

Team Homewood was the vision of coach Carol Chesnutt, who submitted the idea for an innovation grant to the Homewood City Schools Foundation. The grant was approved for the first year, and corporate and individual sponsors have funded the program in subsequent years. Members of the group are selected by their teams’ coaches or advisers.

The program focuses on the development of leadership and interpersonal skills, career planning and community service. Specific lessons and experiences are provided to cultivate talents, abilities and character that benefit fellow teammates, schoolmates and the community.

Activities include an orientation dinner, a oneday retreat at a nearby camp, 7 a.m. classes twice per month for four months, a service project, a job shadowing day and a graduation luncheon at The Club attended by parents, coaches and school administrators. ❖

Brown said she hopes their visit helped inform them as they approach decisions on legislation that could affect schools.

In addition to showing legislators the ins and outs of the school system, Brown invited PTO members to shadow classes for a day.

Debbie Castleberry is the PTO president for Vestavia Hills High School.

She and several other board members visited English, art and career tech classes April 15.

Castleberry said just seeing a few classes in action gave her a whole new perspective.

“It is so different than when I was in school! How kids learn now is completely different. They use new resources and teaching methods

Simmons Celebrates Kindness Week With a Magic Moment

A schoolwide assembly was held March 2 at Simmons Middle School to surprise 9-year-old Autumn of Hoover with a Magic Moment.

Throughout the school year, students have participated in fundraising efforts to gather the money necessary to grant Autumn’s wish for a Disney cruise vacation. During the week of Feb. 1-5, the school recognized “Kindness Week” and participated in various fundraising efforts such as can drives for a local food bank and a blanket drive for homeless shelters. Students also raised more than $2,200 for Autumn’s magic moment.

“Fundraising for Magic Moments has been humbling on two fronts,” said Principal Brian Cain. “Number one, just to get to do this for a child is an honor. Number two, I have been at Simmons for nine years and I have never seen the school and community support for a charity event produce so much love, energy and funds in such a short period

are changing.”

One thing that struck Castleberry was the teachers’ willingness to learn from each other and share teaching strategies between departments.

“I saw science teachers observing English teachers and they would say, ‘Hey, that could work in my classroom.’”

After having spent a morning in the school they serve, Castleberry said PTO members may have a greater understanding of what the school needs when teachers apply for grants.

Brown said she hopes other school systems in the state will begin to invite legislators and PTO members into schools to educate them on the needs in their districts. ❖

of time. I often hear that ‘this’ is wrong with the world or ‘that’ is a bad kid, but I don’t agree with that. I see hundreds of wonderful kids doing their best to do the right thing, and in this situation, they were over-the-top wonderful.”

Students joined Aladdin’s genies and Disney princesses during the wish-granting reveal.

“The reveal done by the Simmons Middle School students was hands down one of the best I have ever seen for one of our children,” said Magic Moments Executive Director Joyce Spielberger.

Fanfare included the school band playing Disney music, Aladdin’s genie appearing from a puff of smoke on the stage and princesses bearing gifts for Autumn. All the while, Magic Moments officials said a pep rally of students in the bleachers cheered and held up signs decorated with phrases such as “Simmons Loves Autumn.”

“Autumn was so overwhelmed by the attention, she cried tears of joy and let me tell you, she was not the only one crying,” Spielberger said. “There were not many dry eyes that afternoon!” ❖

Brook.

Martha Manley, Vestavia Hills High School teacher; Tracy Lemak, PTO member; Susan Compton, PTO member and Jennifer Brown, Vestavia Hills High School teacher.

From left: Shelley Sumner, Vestavia Hills teacher; Debbie Castleberry, PTO member; Angie Saia, PTO member and Sarah Lovell, Vestavia Hills teahcer.

By Emily Williams

Writing the Rules

With another school year fast approaching its close, Mountain Brook High School teacher Catherine McGovern is reflecting on the inaugural year of the school’s first writing center program.

The idea came from college writing centers, in which students seek help from peers on their written work. Through a collaboration with Homewood High School and UAB’s writing center, Megan Hastings and McGovern helped create the Spartan Writing Center.

The center has eight tutors who were picked by teachers based on their writing skills and, equally important, on their communication skills.

“Students simply respond better to other students,” McGovern said. “It’s easier to talk to a peer rather than a teacher.”

The center isn’t an editing service; in fact, tutors are not allowed to make marks on the papers they read. McGovern said tutors are trained to conduct hands-off conversations that lead the students to their own answers.

“We try to ask open questions, not just say, ‘This is what I think it should say,’ or, ‘I would use this word,’” said tutor Lucy Chapman.

Henry Kirkpatrick, another tutor, said tutors during their training participated in role-playing conversations as well as editing exercises.

Tutors said the bulk of the material they read is for English courses, but a lab report or two has rolled through.

Each of the tutors said they have had a great time helping out their peers and have even seen changes in their own writing.

SMCS Announces Capital Campaign

Shades Mountain Christian School celebrated the announcement of its newest fundraising efforts March 5 at the school’s annual Eagle Gala and Silent Auction.

In an effort to raise funds to buy Riverchase Middle School and its adjoining property, the school has planned a capital campaign.

According to a press release, the purchase of the properties would provide an opportunity to grow the school and attract new families in the Riverchase area.

So far the school has raised $700,000, and it has set a goal of $1.05 million. The campaign has been named “Our Legacy, Our Future.”

“These current pledges and commitments will allow us to present a solid financial picture to the lenders who are helping us finalize our contract to purchase the new school,” said campaign co-director Joel Smith. “Although support has been significant and we are thankful for the commitments thus far, we are still seeking funding in the form of gifts and pledges to avoid the need for long-term financing.”

“I feel like it lets us look at our own papers more objectively,” tutor

Marley Barnett said. She added that reading her peers’ work has given her an insight into alternate perspectives on various subjects.

“We had one student who wrote just like she spoke, which was pretty interesting,” Kirkpatrick said. He said it gave the paper a strong voice, but one that wasn’t suitable for formal papers.

“Some people come in with an idea of what they want help with,” Barnett said. “Then I’ll look at it and see something else, but they don’t want my opinion. That can be frustrating.”

Overall, the tutors said that the positive feedback outweighs the few negative encounters they have had while tutoring.

Student tutors are available in the mornings before classes start and two times a day during regular school hours.

Though the school currently shares space with Shades Mountain Independent Church, it formed its own entity as a non-profit organization four years ago. After that, school officials searched for a new location until February 2015, when they signed a purchase agreement with the Pelham Board of Education to buy Riverchase for $4.25 million.

“Our long-term goal is to have tutors available during every class period,” McGovern said.

The tutoring program is offered as a graded elective course that tutors can sign up for rather than simply volunteering their time. Next year, McGovern also plans to incorporate seminars into the program, allowing students to attend and hear local professionals talk about their writing careers.

The students currently meet in the school’s library, which is set to be renovated in the near future. According to McGovern, the center and its tutors can look forward to having their own space in the new library.

After a successful first year serving more than 200 students, McGovern, Hastings and their team of tutors are looking forward to their second year and the prospect of more recruits and more students served. ❖

“This facility gives us the blessing of size,” said SMCS board of directors President Bill Vandiver. “We have ample room to build on our rich heritage and pursuing excellence in academics, the arts and athletics, which are all taught in a Christian worldview setting. … We’ve witnessed an unprecedented level of support, including several of the largest gifts in the history of our school.” ❖

When YOU’RE in the driver’s seat, choose Children’s South Surgery.

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Annie Norris, left, and Spartan Writing Center tutor Marley Barnett, right, take a look at Norris’ latest writing assignment.

Journal photo by Emily Williams

By Lee Davis

It doesn’t seem as if nine years have passed since the Vestavia Hills girls soccer team won a state championship.

But surprisingly, that little factoid is true. The Lady Rebels consistently produce some of Alabama’s best teams, but they haven’t brought the big blue trophy back to Limerock Road since 2007.

There’s a good chance that drought will end in 2016.

That’s because Vestavia isn’t just winning –the Lady Rebels are dominating while playing one of the toughest schedules in the state.

Vestavia clinched the championship of Class 7A Area 6 Friday night with a 3-1 win over highly regarded Spain Park. Senior Kennedy Hicks set the tone with a goal in the game’s first minute. Freshman Caroline Causey’s cross to sophomore Taylor Korn provided the second goal. Faith Hauberg scored the third goal shortly before the end of the first half.

The Lady Rebels’ domination speaks for itself. In posting a 19-1 record through the end of last week, Vestavia has outscored its opponents by an aggregate total of 53-8 while chalking up an eye-popping 12 shutouts.

As overpowering as the Lady Rebels have been, Vestavia coach Brigid Littleton insists that the reason for the success is simple.

“It’s all been because our girls have bought into what we’re teaching and have great camaraderie,” Littleton said. “At the beginning we were a bit unstable and weren’t very consistent. We had to get it all together and we did.”

Hicks leads the Lady Rebels with 13 goals in 38 kicks on goal, according to official statistics released before the weekend. Korn has seven goals. Two other Vestavians – Sophia Kamburis and Julia Freeman – have each scored five goals. Hauberg added four goals while Causey and Caroline Silvio scored three apiece.

“Our defense is a big key to our success, but our offense has been tremendous as well,” Littleton said. “In the past we’ve had great defense but struggled to score.”

In 2016, the Lady Rebels’ opponents are the ones struggling to put points on the scoreboard. In yielding only seven goals all season, senior goalkeeper Lauren Rousell has 36 saves for a stellar 83.70 percent.

“If I had to describe our style, I would say we’re composed yet aggressive,” Littleton said. “But the ultimate key to our team is the commitment the girls have for one another and their die-trying attitude. It begins with senior leadership and is implemented throughout our roster.”

Seniors on Vestavia’s roster include Lindsay Copeland and Abigail Albritton in addition to Hicks, Kamburis and Rousell.

Perhaps the Lady Rebels’ most impressive win came in a 2-1 victory over top-ranked

HigH KicK

Rebel Girls off to Quick Start

and two-time defending state champion Oak Mountain on April 4.

After a scoreless first half, Freeman scored the opening goal after a pass from Hauberg. The Lady Eagles rallied to tie the score before Kamburis scored with an assist from Copeland to give Vestavia the lead for good. Roussell sparked the defensive effort with five saves.

The Lady Rebels assumed the number one ranking in the polls after the victory

“When we go into a game, each girl knows they have 10 other players on the field that would do anything for her,” said Littleton. “That sums it up.”

The expectations are high – but Vestavia seems to have the talent and chemistry to make a run all the way to the state title. “The team goal is to win the state,” Littleton said. “Our girls have made their own goals as far as what they should do to be a contributing member of this team regardless of their position or how much playing time they receive. To win the state, we have to maintain composure when pressured and be consistent all over the field.”

If Vestavia has that much-coveted composure and consistency, the Lady Rebels just may earn themselves a new blue trophy. ❖

produced impressive seasons. The Spartans went 24-7 and reached the regional finals. The Eagles won a school record 30 games before falling to Hoover one game shy of the Final Four. That dominance was reflected in the 2015-16 All-Over the Mountain boys basketball team, as Homewood and Spain Park each placed three players on the team. Mountain Brook and Oak Mountain each added two players. Homewood guard Luke Toulitatos, the MVP of the Class 6A Final Four, and Mountain Brook’s Trendon Watford were named Co-Players of the Year. Oak Mountain’s Chris Love was

named Over the Mountain Coach of the Year.

Toulitatos, a junior, averaged 15 points, three rebounds and two assists for the Patriots in 2015-16. He connected from the three-point arc at a 38 percent clip.

Toulitatos was at his best when the stakes were highest. He scored 31 points in Homewood’s 64-51 rout of Huffman in the state Class 6A semi-finals, bagging 11 points in the game’s final two minutes. Toulitatos scored 13 points with six rebounds in the Patriots’ win over

Muscle Shoals in the final.

“Luke is the kind of player who excels in pressure situations,” Homewood coach Tim Shepler said. “We may not have won the state championship without him.”

Toulitatos also was the Most Valuable Player of the prestigious Steel City Tournament and the Class 6A Central Regionals.

Watford, a freshman, was a scoring machine for the Spartans. He averaged 24 points, 12 rebounds and two assists per contest from the forward position. Watford broke the 1,000-point career barrier in just his second year of varsity play. He also scored 618 points in 2015-16 to break Mountain Brook’s single season scoring record.

the Class 7A Regional Finals.

“It’s an honor to be named Coach of the Year by my peers, but it’s really a testimony to what our kids accomplished,” Love said. “Any success we enjoyed was due to their willingness to work together to accomplish our team goals.”

Other Patriots joining Toulitatos on the All-Over the Mountain team are Trey Jemison and Austin Peterson. Jack Kline also represents Mountain Brook on the team.

Other members include Thomas Collier, Briarwood; Christian Wilson-Poole, John Carroll Catholic; Jamari Blackmon, Hoover; Wyatt Armstrong and Payton Youngblood, Oak Mountain; Justin Brown, Jamal Johnson and Austin Wiley, Spain Park; and Will Macoy, Vestavia Hills. ❖ patriots, From page 36

Love coached Oak Mountain to a 30-11 record, taking the Eagles to

Homewood guard Luke Toulitatos, left, the MVP of the Class 6A Final Four, and Mountain Brook’s Trendon Watford were named Co-Players of the Year.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Vestavia Hills senior Kennedy Hicks (center), leads the Lady Rebels with 13 goals. Below left, Taylor Korn has scored seven goals. Sophia Kamburis, below right has scored five goals. through the end of last week, Vestavia has outscored its opponents by an aggregate total of 53-8.

Journal photos by Mark Almond