9.22.16

Otmj over the mountain journal u otmj.com

social

sports

Thursday, september 22, 2016

Puttin’ on the

Pink

Real Men Wear Pink In the Fight Against Breast Cancer Stories begin on page 12

Photos by Mary Margaret Smith

Real Men wearing pink Clockwise from left: AC Roper; Will Haver; Bezshan Dolatadabi; Thomas Hoffman; Lee Edwards; Chris Lane; Andrew Collins and Jeff Dugas. Meet more Real Men on page 12.

inside

Dinner and a Show Exceptional Foundation participants sing, dance and drum at fundraiser.

Life Page 16

Outside art Antiques at The Gardens returns for 11th year with old favorites and new twists. home Page 29

‘honor and remember’ news Page 18

2 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

Opinion/Contents

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

murphy’s law

Lending a Hand: From left: Mike Perley with daughter Jessica; Rachel Gordon with daughters Emma and Sarah.

Hundreds of Hands Help for Vestavia Community Service Day

For the second year, the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the city to host the Helping Hands in the Hills Day of Service.

More than 300 volunteers gathered at Wald Park on the morning of Sept. 10 and split up to lend a hand to Vestavia Hills residents who needed a little extra help around the house.

“We could not have been more thankful for the large amount of volunteers that gave up their Saturday mornings to give back to our city and help make Vestavia Hills ‘A Life Above,’” said Katie Geurin, office manager for the chamber and the Helping Hands event coordinator.

Geurin noted that the volunteers taking part in the event served more than 24 residents. Volunteers tackled tasks for local seniors from hanging drapes to landscaping. Yards around the community were dotted with Helping Hands volunteers who were mowing, raking, trimming hedges and more.

“Most of our projects, though, were things that many of us might spend our Saturdays doing at our own houses, but senior citizens and those with disabilities are unable to do. … We’ve had a huge outpour of love and thanks from those who were served and we can’t wait to help them again next year,” Geurin said.

In addition to serving residents, volunteers took part in public works projects including picking up trash at the U.S. 31/Interstate 65 interchange and on the Scout/Rotary trail, cleaning up the gardens at the Library in the Forest and painting the Dogwood Room in the Vestavia Hills Civic Center.

in this issue About Town 3 people 8 life 12 news 18 social 20

business 26 weddings 27 schools 28 Home 29 sports 36

On otmj.com

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

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L September 22, 2016 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, Jordan Wald Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Vol. 27, No. 4

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

Copyright 2016 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Mi Casa Is Not Su Casa

I

in theirs, and ideally they will not be saw a wasp outside my window this attached in condo fashion. morning, bumping his knobby head I will concede the yard and the against the glass, and I felt sorry trees, and that’s more room than I give for the little guy. He wasn’t welcome the snakes. For my side-winding brethanywhere. ren, mi casa is not su casa at all. Can’t Now, full disclosure, I myself had do it. I know there are snakes that are knocked his house off the eaves on venomous and those that are not and more than one occasion. Actually, I I’m the one with the prejudice probdon’t know if it was the same wasp. lem, but I’m just not ready to coexist in I’m not good with faces. Still, if it was a peaceful state. the same wasp or his long-lost brother I realize that I’m seeing the circle from Des Moines, I know I have not of life from my own perspective. These been very wasp-welcoming. poor creatures probably see every On one side, who could blame swipe of my broom as an assault on me, what with the stinging and all their homeland. There are disaster that? I’ve only been stung once and Sue Murphy reports on the nightly cockroach news, I’m sure it was nothing personal, but pictures of refugee wasps hudI prefer to keep my distance just in I realize that I’m seeing little dled around … but I guess that’s the case. the circle of life from my question. Where can these unwanted Over the years, I have been equally adamant about not sharing own perspective. These creatures go? Are they doomed to their lives building and buildmy quarters with cockroaches. They poor creatures probably spend ing only to be chased off again? have a very germy reputation, so see every swipe of my Maybe the answer is to establish when I spot them loitering around a Home for Wayward Wasps, a place the baseboards, I hunt them down broom as an assault on where they can form their ingenious and … well, I won’t go into the their homeland. There paper villas to their hearts content, ensuing details because this is a are disaster reports on raise their little wasp children and family publication.

I spend all summer wielding my the nightly cockroach grandchildren, and live out their in peace. If we all chipped in, broadsword broom against spider news, little pictures of lives maybe did one of those fund-raising webs. I have nothing against spiders, really. Sure, some of their more radi- refugee wasps huddled drives on the internet, we could purchase a piece of land and set it cal members are bent on killing and around … up with eaves for every wasp in the paralyzing, but the majority of them country. All that would be left would are peaceful bug hunters with a talent for weaving. All I ask is that they weave their magic be to get the word out. “You can’t stay here, sweetie, but there is a place for you in this world.” someplace where there’s no chance that I will walk After the wasps are all settled, I’ll get to work through the sticky strands and say, “Eeeew!” on resettling the spiders and ants And the ants? Well, our feud continues. They have this idea that my attic is a fabulous place to winter and I and cockroaches. Not the snakes, though. Somebody strongly disagree. else will have to You know me. I’m all for biodiversity. My motto is, spearhead that one.

“Live and let live,” but I’d just as soon every critter not I still need more do it within my property line. I’ll live in my house and the ants and spiders and wasps and cockroaches will live time. ❖

over the Mountain Views

What’s the Best Part About Working at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in the Fall?

“The changing foliage.”

“The rose garden.”

“The sweet constituents!”

“The special events.”

Heather Oliver Alabaster

Pam McLoud Highland Lakes

Rona Ann Walters Pelham

Alice Thompson Moore Forest Park

correction: A Sept. 8 story on the Over the Mountain elections stated incorrectly that the Vestavia Hills school board voted in 2015 to ban use of the Confederate flag. In fact, the board voted in the late 1990s to remove the flag from the high school’s logo. The board has attempted to discourage unofficial use of the symbol for many years. Its vote in July 2015 was to sideline the Southern colonel as mascot for the high school. We regret the error.

Sept. 24-25

sept. 22 - Oct. 6 Thurs., Sept. 22 BIRMINGHAM

Bowling for Rhinos Brunswick Riverview Lanes The Zoo will host a bowling event to benefit the conservation efforts of both the International Rhino Foundation and the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. A $20 registration fee includes two hours of bowling, shoes, raffle prizes, silent auction and food. For more information, visit birminghamzoo.com.

VESTAVIA HILLS

Eat Roll Rebel Vestavia Hills High School The inaugural event will feature student performances and art displays, school tours, prizes and food trucks.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students and faculty and children 12 and under are free. For more information, visit vestavia.k12.al.us.

Fri., Sept. 23

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 3

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

HOOVER

Art in the Gardens Aldridge Gardens The Hoover Arts Alliance will host this annual art show Sat. from 9 a.m -5 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The event includes a juried show featuring Alabama artists working with a variety of mediums. Admission is $5 per person and free for children ages 16 and under.

Off-site parking with shuttles will be available at the Bed Bath & Beyond parking area on Lorna Road. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Sun., Sept 25 BIRMINGHAM

Vulcan Aftertoons Vulcan Park and Museum The park will host a concert featuring Dylan Leblanc, below, with gates opening at 1 p.m. An opening act

by Duquette Johnston will begin at 2:30 p.m. Light snacks, beer, wine

and soft drinks will be available for purchase. Tickets are $15 for adults, $8 for members and children ages 5 and up. For more information, visit visitvulcan.com.

BIRMINGHAM

25th Annual Magic City Aids Walk Railroad Park This year’s event will begin at 4:30 p.m. and will include a guest emcee as well as live music and choir performances. A vendor fair will be open from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring beach blankets. For more information, visit birminghamaidsoutreach.org/aids-walk5k-run.

BIRMINGHAM

Breakin’ Bread 2016 Sloss Furnaces Birmingham Originals presents its fourteenth annual culinary festival from 1-5 p.m. The event will feature craft beer and wine, a live cooking competition, live music and a children’s area with live animal encounters. Tickets begin at $35 and include unlimited food samplings and two drink tickets. For more information, visit birminghamoriginals. org.

BIRMINGHAM

Tapping Out Childhood Cancer Gala Alabama Theatre This dance performance will feature

OUR CONFIDENCE COMES WITH EXPERIENCE

BIRMINGHAM

Bandaloop UAB’s Alys Stephens Center The center’s 20th season will kick off at 8 p.m. with a free performance by this aerial performance group. The show will begin in the Jemison Concert Hall and conculde on the Engel Plaza.

Local food trucks will be on-site. For more information, visit alysstephens.org/ events/bandaloop/.

Sat., Sept. 24 VESTAVIA HILLS

Cornhole for a Cure MDA Vestavia Hills City Hall Lawn The Vestavia Hills Fire Department will host cornhole tournament event from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Guests are invited to bring tents and tailgate. Festivities include football on the big screen, games, raffles and more. Registration is $40 per team of two. For more information, email David Abston at vhfdcornhole@gmail.com or visit vestaviahills.org.

PELHAM

Burningham10 ArtMusicDance Fest REDBUD by BMX Track Oak Mountain State Park Birmingham will host the tenth annual DIY arts festival from noon-10 p.m.

Activities include fire dancers, henna, drums, improv, art and the Fire Ant Film Festival. The event is free beyond park admission. For more information, visit “Burningham10 ArtMusicDance” Facebook page.

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BIRMINGHAM

Artery Redemptive Cycle This guided bicycle arts tour will include the downtown Birmingham, Avondale, Woodlawn and Eastlake areas from 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Tour stops will have their own individual event times. For more information, visit the “Artery - A Bikable Tour of Birmingham Arts” Facebook page.

Land Rover Birmingham 3000 Tom Williams Way, Birmingham, AL 35210 205 397 0610 LandRoverBirmingham.com Models Shown: 2015 Range Rover Evoque, 2015 Range Rover Sport, 2015 LR4. †Land Rover Approved Certified Pre-Owned Coverage, including limited warranty and roadside assistance, expires up to seven years from the original in-service date or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Original in-service date is the earlier of the new-vehicle retail sale or in-use date, as reported to Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC. Select vehicles may have the option for different warranty terms. Vehicles with the 7 years/100,000 miles limited warranty are limited in supply and only available at participating Land Rover Retailers. See your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for complete terms and conditions of the limited warranty and service coverage. © 2016 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

4 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

About Town

25 celebrating

years

Serving, Learning, Caring — Since 1991

Walking to Remember 2016 Alzheimer’s in Alabama Annual Conference October 13, 2016 presented by

8:30 to 4:30 followed by a Wine and Cheese Celebration of ACA’s 25th anniversary Globe symbol

AT&T logotype

Rosewood Hall (inside Homewood City Hall at SoHo Square) $20 for family caregivers $40 for professionals needing CEU’s Registration and agenda online

more than 12 dance companies beginning at 2 p.m. The event was inspired by Alex Swader of Mt. Olive, an award-winning dancer, who organized this event in 2007 after being diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma.

Tickets begin at $25. A VIP party will follow at Gabrella Manor. For more information, visit give.childrensal.org/ goto/dancersfightingcancer.

BIRMINGHAM

Can Opener Cahaba Brewery Community Kitchens of Birmingham, an organization that provides food for needy citizens from St. Andrews and Grace Episcopal Church in Woodlawn, will partner with Cahaba Brewing Company to present a fundraising event at 3 p.m. Tickets are $25, raffle tickets are $20 or $40 for the combo. For more information, contact wgilchrist@ lightfootlaw.com.

Tues., Sept. 27 HOOVER

Golf Fore Life 2016 Invitational Greystone Golf & Country Club The club will host this invitational on the Founder’s Course, beginning at 11 a.m. with registration and lunch. The tournament will begin at noon with a shotgun start and will be followed by an awards ceremony at 5 p.m. Register online at savalife.org or call 979-0302.

Thurs., Sept. 29 BIRMINGHAM

Saturday, November 5 inside the Riverchase Galleria, 8 a.m.

Walk in honor or memory of someone with Alzheimer’s Serving 21 counties in central Alabama since 1991, ACA uses $0.89 of every dollar directly to help patients and caregivers.

Fish On! Florentine On River Time will host its third annual live auction and dinner at the Florentine building in downtown Birmingham from 6-10 p.m. All proceeds go towards expanding the nonprofit’s year-round impact on children who have suffered abuse and neglect. Crimson Tide football legend and Big Oak Ranch founder John Croyle will serve as the keynote speaker. Tickets are $75. For more information, visit onrivertime.org.

Photos special to the Journal

Upcoming Events

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

BIRMINGHAM

Symphony 30’s Annual Picnic, Sun., Sept. 25 Birmingham Botanical Gardens The annual picnic and hour-long orchestral concert, conducted by Christopher Confessore, will be held from 4-7:30 p.m. Food will be provided by Jim ‘N Nick’s, and all proceeds benefit the outreach and missions of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. The event will include a kid zone with craft projects. Tickets are $25 for adults and $12.50 for children. For more information, visit alabamasymphony.org/htvolunteer.htm ❖

Fri., Sept. 30 BIRMINGHAM

Sweet Home Brews: Firkin Fest Sidebar in Lakeview The Junior Board of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama will host the second annual firkin focused craft beer event from 6-10 p.m. Ten featured breweries include local breweries Avondale Brewing Co., Cahaba Brewing Co., Good People Brewing Co., Trim Tab Brewing Co. Tickets are $25 each or $40 for a pair.

For more information, visit rmhca.org.

BIRMINGHAM

Western’s Wine & Food Festival Birmingham Zoo The supermarket’s annual event will be held from 6-9 p.m., featuring more than 600 wines, more than 35 local food vendors, raffle prizes and animals from the Birmingham Zoo. A shuttle service will be available in the parking lot.

Tickets are $60 each with discounts

Jewels By Rose Celebrating 40 Years In Vestavia Hills

Your Support helps us provide: • Support groups, telephone helpline, education and advocacy • Scholarships to attend adult day care • Scholarships for continence products • Funding for research at Alabama Universities

(205) 871-7970 or (866) 806-7255

www.alzca.org

Heading up this year’s Symphony 30 Picnic is, from left: Ryan Graham, picnic co-chair; Colin Mitchell, picnic chair; Dr. Jack Schaeffer; and Ensley Darnall, vice president.

for groups of 10 or more. The ages 21 and over event will benefit Emmet O’Neal Library, Birmingham Zoo, East Lake Initiative and the Junior League of Birmingham For more information, visit westernsupermarkets.com.

Sat., Oct. 1 HOOVER

Bluff Park Art Show Bluff Park Community Center The Bluff Park Art Association will host its annual art show from 9 a.m.5 p.m., featuring jury selected artists from the Birmingham area and across the country. The free event will feature art across a wide dance of mediums, food and kids art activities. For more information, visit bluffparkartassociation. org.

BIRMINGHAM

Fiesta Birmingham Linn Park Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage will take place at Linn Park from noon-8 p.m.

In it’s 14th year, the event celebrates Hispanic culture through art, music, food and dance. Admission is $8 per person in advance and $10 at the gate.

Children 12 and under are admitted for free. For more information, visit fiestabirmingham.com.

Sun., Oct. 2 BIRMINGHAM

On September 30, Jewels By Rose celebrates 40 years of business in Vestavia Hills. In these forty years, Jewels By Rose has had the privilege of helping our customers with courteous customer service, implementing custom jewelry designs along with an eagerness and dedication to helping assist the customer with that perfect gift. Jewels By Rose's main focus is Estate and Fine Jewelry. We also have a large selection of designer fashion jewelry. Come in for our open house on September 30th and help us celebrate with refreshments and a drawing for door prizes!

619 Montgomery Highway • Vestavia Hills • 979-5611

Hop N’ Roll Food Truck Rally Second Avenue South The B’ham Food Truck Coalition will help Hop City host its fourth birthday from noon-8 p.m. featuring music, a silent auction, craft beer tastings and a kid’s area. Local food trucks will be serving until 6 p.m. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the event. Gates will be located on 2nd Ave. S. at the corners of 29th St. and 31st St. and event proceeds will benefit the Coosa Riverkeeper.

See, About Town, page 7

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 5

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

OCTOBER 6-­9, 2016

at Birmingham Botanical Gardens RED DIAMOND® LECTURE SERIES

JEFFREY BILHUBER

TASTEBUDS

MICHAEL GRIM

SUZANNE POLLAK

TASTE IN SPADES

EDDIE ROSS

MARK SIKES

Tickets, Dealer & Show Information at

GEN & BEN SOHR

6 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

The Heart of the Matter

By Emily Williams Within the walls of UAB Hospital, there is an organization that has remained unintentionally hidden from the eyes of the general public: the Pediatric Heart Transplant Study Foundation.

The Birmingham-based nonprofit is preparing to host its first fundraiser,

Hearts After Dark, Sept. 29 at Iron City.

Brittany Wilk, the brains behind the event and the organization’s programs manager, said she is ready to introduce the organization to the surrounding community.

“This is kind of going to be a relaunch for us,” Wilk said. “We’re using this event to show everybody

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 2 2 - 4 p.m.

• Top AISA K-8 School in State • State Math Champions • Blue Ribbon School Winner • Representing 44 Zip Codes

Start Here Go Anywhere

who we are and start building some new relationships in our city.”

The nonprofit serves to fund its namesake, the Pediatric Heart Transplant Study, an international database of pediatric heart transplant research and cases that seeks to make the world of pediatric medicine a little smaller in regard to heart transplants.

According to the study’s data, more than 500 pediatric heart transplants are conducted each year. In 2015, 456 of those transplants were performed in the United States and eight of the operations took place at UAB. As of Aug. 8, the study had gathered data from 5,905 transplants since its inception in 1993.

“This information helps our doctors and nurses learn how to better care for our kids,” and reduce the risk of rejection, Wilk said.

In addition to the threat of rejection, Wilk noted that many pediatric heart transplant patients outgrow their first transplanted organ and have to undergo at least one, if not more, transplants throughout their childhoods.

“It’s all about making each heart last longer,” Wilk said. “The study tracks a patient from the day they are listed for a heart donation and continues to gather data long after their transplant. There are only two ways we stop tracking a patient and those are either death or adulthood.” Once they hit a certain age, a patient graduates to a similar research study that focuses on adult transplant patients, Intermacs.

Living with a transplanted heart as a child is an ongoing struggle, Wilk said, the risk of rejection after one year is 30 percent, and recovery for a child after a heart transplant is a long road for both the patients’ families as well as their physicians.

“Because the transplant patients spend a long time in the hospital, we

Photos special to the Journal

Pediatric Heart Transplant Study Foundation Introduces Inaugural Fundraiser

Heartfelt: Dr. Elfriede Pahl, pictured above with one of her heart transplant patients. Left, former UAB pediatric heart transplant patient Jeanne Ann Love, pictured with her husband, Jared, and son, will be a keynote speaker at the Pediatric Heart Transplant Study Foundation’s Hearts After Dark Sept. 29.

get to know them and their families quite well,” said Dr. Wally Carlo of Children’s of Alabama. “I believe it reflects well on our team of doctors and transplant coordinators that we inevitably grow close to these patients and families. In some ways, we become like family. Their medical condition is so complex that they rely on our team for medical, physical, social and emotional support.”

A former UAB pediatric transplant patient, Jeanne Anne Love was so inspired by her transplant experience that she has since pursued a career in

cardiothoracic research.

At age 11, Love had a heart transplant at UAB by Dr. Jim Kirklin, who serves on the foundation’s board of directors.

“Heart transplantation gave me the gift of life, including my husband and our beautiful little boy. I am forever grateful to my donor family, Dr. Kirklin and the research made possible by the Pediatric Heart Transplant Study for this incredible blessing,” Love said.

Love works for the James and John Kirklin Institute for Research in Surgical Outcomes under UAB’s Department of Surgery. At the Hearts After Dark event, she will share her story as a keynote speaker.

The fundraiser will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and includes music by the Derek Sellers Band, beer and wine, food provided by the Iron City Grill and a wide selection of auction items. Tickets are $60 for individuals or $105 for a pair.

For more information, visit phtsfoundation.org. ❖

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Wed., Oct. 5

about town, from page 4 HOOVER

Whispers from the Past - A Native American Experience Aldridge Gardens The annual event celebrating Alabama’s Native American history will take place from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and includes demonstrations, games artifacts and more. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Offsite parking with a shuttle service will be available at Bed Bath & Beyond on Lorna Road. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

HOOVER

Step Up for Down Syndrome Buddy Walk Veteran’s Park Down Syndrome of Alabama’s 17th annual walk will be held from 12:30-2 p.m. with lunch trucks and activities and crafts for all ages. A commemorative ceremony and walk will take place from 2-3 p.m. followed by a celebration and dancing from 3-5 p.m.

Admission is $10. Individuals with Down syndrome and kids ages 3 and under are free. For more information, visit downsyndromealabama.org.

BIRMINGHAM

Cahaba River Fry-Down Railroad Park The catfish cooking competition will take place from noon-4 p.m., featuring carnival actives, educational games, a petting zoo, beer gardens and more.

Admission is $20 for ages 12 and up and includes all-you-can-eat catfish. For more information, visit fry down.com.

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 7

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

HOMEWOOD

Linly Heflin Scholarship Fashion Show The Club The Linley Heflin Unit will host its 58th annual cocktail party and fashion show Oct. 5 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and door prizes. The show, produced

by Tracy James of Chic Made Simple, will feature Rachel Zoe’s Fall 2016 collection and current trends by Gus Mayer. Proceeds from the event will benefit the organization’s scholarship program which serves women seeking high education in Alabama. For more information, visit linlyheflin.org.

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Mountain Brook VillageBlock Party Mountain Brook Village The village will celebrate fall with a party from 6-8 p.m. featuring Shop Hop, music, Shindigs Food Truck, door prizes and more. For more information, visit welcometomountainbrook.com.

Thurs., Oct 6 VESTAVIA HILLS

Legacy League Fall Luncheon A Private Club in Vestavia Hills Samford University’s Legacy League will kick off a new year with its annual luncheon at 11:30 a.m. The event is open to the public and will feature a performance by the Birmingham Boys Choir, directed by Choirmaster Ken Berg. Tickets are $25 and reservations must be made by Sept. 30. For

BIRMINGHAM

more information, visit samford.edu/ legacyleague.

HOOVER

Taste of Hoover Aldridge Gardens Hoover’s best restaurants and caterers will be cooking up tastings alongside international wines and local beers from 5-8 p.m. Music will be provided by Jacob Edwards. Tickets are $30 for garden members and $40 for non-members. A limited number of tickets are available. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Table of Hope The Florentine Urban Ministry’s largest fundraiser of the year will feature dinner, a silent auction and a program featuring keynote speaker Becca Stevens, 2016 CNN Hero and Thistle

Farms founder/president. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the event will be emceed by Urban Ministry Board Member and FOX 6 News Anchor Janet Hall. Tickets are $150. For more information, contact Angela Moore at angela@urban-ministry. org ❖

VESTAVIA HILLS

Wine and Craft Beer Showcase A Private Club in Vestavia Hills Piggly Wiggly will host the third annual wine, beer and food tasting event from 6-9 p.m. The event will benefit The Daniel Project, a mission of the Paul Meyers Foundation honoring the late Daniel Naim Ajlouny of Birmingham.

Ajlouny died at the age of 21 as a result of undiagnosed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The genetic condition consists of an abnormally large heart and is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young adults.

Funds from the showcase will benefit the project’s efforts to promote community awareness about HCM and fund screening for individuals who exhibit symptoms of the condition.

Tickets are $50. For more information, visit paulmeyersfoundation.com.

8 PRIMARY CARE LOCATIONS. SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS. 1 NUMBER: 205-971-DOCS.

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To: Michael From: Over the Mountain Journal 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax Date: Sept. 2016

This is your ad proof for the Sept. 22, 2016 OTMJ Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to ad or make changes. You may 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.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Grandview Medical Group makes it easier to see a primary care provider in Birmingham – quickly. Just call 205-971-DOCS before noon on weekdays.

Most calls will result in a same-day appointment with a physician or a nurse practitioner at one of our eight primary care locations. Walk-ins are welcome, too. If you or a family member age five or older needs to see a doctor fast, think Grandview Medical Group.

Chelsea • Columbiana • Grandview Physicians Plaza Hoover • Lee Branch • Liberty Park • Springville • Trussville

Look Forward.

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7/21/16 11:01 AM

8 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

Crooning to Remember

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

‘Sinatra’ Reigns at Event Honoring Betty Allenberg Goldstein’s Work in Holocaust Education When the lights went down at the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center’s L’Chaim fundraising event Aug. 21 in the Sirote Theatre, pianist/ vocalist Ray Reach fulfilled the wish

of honoree Betty Allenberg Goldstein by recreating the magic of songs that Frank Sinatra made famous.

Goldstein, a Mountain Brook resident, was honored by the BHEC for

From left: Cathy Friedman, Carole Pizitz, Betty A. Goldstein and Joel Rotenstreich.

Survivor Ruth Siegler and Jessica Roskin.

The Benjamin Russell High School Drama Club performed scenes from “I Never Saw Another Butterfly.”

Phyllis Weinstein, Betty Goldstein, Patty McDonald and Deborah Layman.

her commitment to Holocaust education in Birmingham. As a longtime supporter of the BHEC, Goldstein has worked behind the scenes for years to raise awareness of the importance of Holocaust education.

“Anyone who knows Betty Goldstein knows that her energy and enthusiasm are boundless,” L’Chaim Co-Chair Joel Rotenstreich said in a statement. “Betty is a giver, doer, goer, helper, and more. She is all heart and the first one there.”

Goldstein visited Auschwitz in 1994 with a group from

Birmingham as part of the March of the Living, an annual educational program that takes students from around the world to Poland to visit Holocaust sites. Goldstein credits this experience with sparking her passionate interest in Holocaust education.

“It was life-changing,” she said.

“I haven’t been the same since. I became interested in the BHEC because their mission is to eradicate the hatred and intolerance that are rampant today. What they’re doing is more important than ever. They

work hard to teach tolerance to schoolchildren. We have to start when they’re young, so when they become adults, they won’t have Pianist/vocalist Ray prejudice in Reach fulfilled the their hearts.” wish of honoree Betty The annu- Allenberg Goldstein by recreating the al L’Chaim event features magic of songs that Frank Sinatra made the favorite famous. music of the honoree, and when Goldstein was asked what kind of music she likes, the petite 88-year-old replied without hesitation, “Frank Sinatra.”

For Goldstein, Sinatra songs bring back happy memories of her long relationship with local lawyer Morris Sirote, Goldstein’s significant other for 17 years. She and Sirote traveled extensively together and especially enjoyed seeing Frank Sinatra perform.

“We loved dancing to Sinatra’s songs,” she said.

To learn more about the work of the BHEC, visit bhamholocausteducation.org. ❖

Photos special to the Journal

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 9

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

“Samford brings in some outstanding artists for this series, and we’re proud to be a part of it,” said Davis. “And we certainly believe in the Samford program and where it’s headed in terms of the fine arts.”

But, he acknowledged, sponsorship of the Guest Artist Series is

Photos special to the Journal

Kalichstein-LaredoRobinson Trio

In Harmony

A Blend of Architecture and Acoustics Makes Beautiful Music

By June Mathews Neil Davis is proud to be a part of a Samford University series that since 2008 has brought world-renowned artists to Birmingham audiences.

But his firm also having designed the building that hosts the series, well, that’s pretty special, too.

The 2016-17 Davis Architects Guest Artist Series opens Sept. 27 in the university’s Jane Hollock Brock Recital Hall.

Ten years after its opening, the hall remains a place of physical, as well as acoustical, beauty, in large part thanks to the work of Davis and his team. Its Georgian exterior echoes the architectural theme of the other buildings on campus, and its interior is what a blurb on the Davis Architects website describes as, “a visual feast as a companion for the auditory experience.”

Heady stuff for a small, 333-seat venue on a suburban college campus.

But according to Davis, it’s all in the design process, which for a music hall, differs from that of an office or school building, for instance.

“The most important thing is how the architect is able to deal with the acoustics of the hall and integrate it with the texture and finish of the inte-

considers it an excellent way for Davis Architects to further support the Birmingham arts community.

“The opportunity presented itself, and we took it,” Davis said. “We’ve supported Birmingham’s Artwalk, a series of performances at the Alys Stephens Center and other arts-related events around the city, so when we were approached about this, we said we’d do it.”

Guest Artist Series

Architect Neil Davis and his firm Davis Architects, designed Jane Hollock Brock Recital Hall, which has hosted world-renowned artists, since it opened on the campus of Samford University in 2008. The 2016-17 Davis Architects Guest Artist Series opens Sept. 27 with the famed Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio.

rior,” he said. “It’s a matter of blending the design and character of the space with the acoustical aspects.”

For the design team, the process was partially inspired by the high standards that have made Samford one of the top-ranked private universities in the country.

“We knew the hall was being built for a fine music program,” Davis said.

As far as his firm’s role in Samford’s Guest Artist Series, Davis

beneficial to Davis Architects in return.

“It’s also a chance to remind people that we do this kind of work, and it helps with the name recognition factor,” he said. “The more word gets out what kind of venue this is, the better it is for us.” ❖

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Created to provide local audiences exposure to world-renowned artists, the series also is a tool for educating and inspiring students of Samford’s performing arts program.

“Hearing these professionals’ stories allows students to envision their own futures,” School of the Arts Dean Joseph Hopkins said in announcing the coming season.

This year’s series opens with the 2817 2nd Ave. So. • 323-2817 famed Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio and continues Nov. 17 with the Mon. - Fri. 10:00 - 4:00 • SAt. 10:00 - 2:00 return of pianist Leon Fleisher, along with his wife, Katherine Jacobson, also an acclaimed pianist. Fleisher was the inaugural guest artist in the Women’s Economic Stability Initiative Brock Recital Hall.

On Feb. 21, internationally cel323-2103 ebrated guitarists the Assad BrothersTo: will perform a selection of Latin From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 American and European classics. Date: Sept.

The season will close March 28 with This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurna America’s premiere professional quarSept. 22 issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-124 tet low brass ensemble, Sotto Voce.

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10 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

Will Hecker of Boy Scout Troop 320 earned the rank of Eagle Scout on Aug. 11.

During his scouting career, Hecker served in leadership positions that included scribe, instructor, patrol leader and senior patrol leader. He participated in several trips, such as a camping trip at the Pensacola Will Hecker Naval Air Station, which included a tour of the USS Independence. He received the Arrow of Light and recently was tapped to receive the Order of the Arrow.

For his project, Hecker led 27 volunteers in building five cedar picnic tables for Mountain Brook Baptist Church’s preschool. During construction, he designed four additional side tables using the scrap lumber cut from the picnic table boards.

Hecker is a student at Mountain Brook High School and plays tenor saxophone in the Marching Band, the Concert Band and the Jazz Band. He is a second-degree black belt and aids instruction with International Karate at Crestline Elementary School. Hecker

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Homewood’s Estes Earns Gold Award Isabel Estes, a junior at Homewood High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award.

For her project, Estes coordinated the “Vamos a la Escuela” program to address the lack of readiness that Hispanic children experience when entering kindergarten.

“As I continued both in Girl Scouts and observing community issues, I heard a conversation that peaked my interest about how some children who head to kindergarten have never been in any type of school Isabel Estes setting,” Estes said. “I wondered how they knew how to ‘get in line’ or ‘be a scissors monitor’ since those aren’t things you would hear in a home setting.”

Estes worked with the Hispanic Interest Coalition to create a camp to teach children skills such as using scissors and identifying colors that are typically introduced in a preschool setting.

“I feel like I realized that I am a leader,” Estes said. “I gained confidence in speaking, in setting up meetings, in following through and figuring out what to do when things don’t go as planned.”

Estes plans to share her lesson plans with the surrounding community, her church and school, and she plans to continue the project in Homewood in 2017.

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After graduating high school, he plans to attend college to obtain a business degree.

Hecker is the son of Frederica and Bill Hecker of Mountain Brook.

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Photos special to the Journal

Mountain Brook’s Hecker Earns Eagle Scout

people

Girls in Girl Scout Troop 30117 celebrated their rise from Juniors to Cadettes by zip lining across Lake Martin at Kamp Kiwanis. The bridging ceremony for the Hoover troop was held in August. Girls who took part in the ceremony were, from left: Jane Bae, Amelia Batten, Jamese Melton, Mimi Batten, Cecilia Daigle, Allie Stafford, Iggy Hill and Avery DeBerry. Junior troops in scouting are for girls in the fourth and fifth grades, and Cadettes are girls in sixth through eighth grades.

Front, from left: Kashyra Myhand, Kayva Young, Kaelin Pettit and Allie Simmons. Back: Annabelle Morrison, adviser Amy Thorington, Haley Robinson and Kirsten Estes.

Simmons Dance Team Performs at Bell Center Fundraiser The Simmons Middle School dance team performed at The Bell Center for Early Intervention’s annual Tailgate Challenge on Aug. 27.

One of the team’s members, Allie Simmons, is a graduate of the organization’s program, which provides therapy to infants and toddlers who are at risk for developmental delay.

The dance team members, made up of seventh- and eighth-grade students, include Kirsten Estes, Annabelle Morrison, Kashyra Myhand, Kaelin

Jim Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 free $ is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiNconsultation!

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Pettit, Haley Robinson, Allie Simmons and Kayva Young. They are led by adviser Amy Thorington.

APA Presents Inaugural Professionalism Award The Alabama Pharmacy Association awarded Lauren Smith of Vestavia Hills with the inaugural R. Lee Evans Student Professionalism Award on June 13 at the organization’s annual convention in Destin, Florida.

Smith is a 2017 pharmacy doctorate candidate of Auburn University’s Harrison School of Pharmacy. As a student, she served in leadership roles that include community health chair and chapter president of the national Community Pharmacists Association, and she represented APA as its 2015 student representative for HSOP. She is a member of the Kappa Psi Pledge committee and Script Your Future Committee, and she served as a program leader and on the committee for HSOP’s 5K Training program.

As an active community volunteer, she has served at the Christian Care Ministries Health Fair and as a counselor at Camp Smile-A-Mile.

“Lauren is a wonderful example of a servant leader,” APA Executive Director Louise Jones said in a released statement. “She not only excels academically and maintains involvement in several organizations, but she also practices great care and compassion for others. We are thrilled to have presented the first ever R. Lee Evans award to such an outstanding student.”

The award is named for HSOP’s dean, who has served in his position for the past 22 years.

“APA is pleased to honor dean Evans’ legacy and Lauren Smith commitment to professionalism with the establishment of this award,” Jones said.

APA plans to annually present the award to a student of HSOP who displays a high level of professionalism both in school and in other pharmacyrelated endeavors. ❖

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Bonnie’s Brigade

By Sarah Kuper By the time Julie Lovell’s mother, Bonnie Segers, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the disease was already stage IV. “When she was first diagnosed, we really didn’t know what would happen.

She did well with treatments and was hopeful, but she didn’t really like to talk about it. I don’t think any of us knew she was that close to dying.”

Segers passed away Dec. 1, 2011, two years after her diagnosis. She was 53.

But even before her passing, Segers’ family took action against the disease.

“As soon as she was diagnosed, we were out helping with events within a month or two,” Lovell said.

Segers, her husband, Donald, and their three daughters, Julie, Blair and Laura, all began to volunteer with the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation – a Birmingham-based nonprofit supporting ovarian cancer research and awareness.

They called themselves Bonnie’s Brigade.

The family was drawn to the organization because of its mission for early ovarian cancer detection.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month, and the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation’s Head Over Teal 5K and 10K are Sept. 24.

Lovell, who is on the Head Over Teal committee, said the event is family friendly and will focus on fun and education.

“Education is a top priority for the foundation,” Lovell said. “We want women to get to know their bodies and to get to the doctor sooner.”

Donald Segers agreed, saying the

subtle signs were there for his wife, but only in hindsight.

“She hadn’t felt well for a year or two really,” he said. “She had put on weight but attributed it to getting older or menopause. Until it had already spread to her lungs, she had no idea.”

Now, Segers said he and his daughters want to spread the word that ovarian cancer isn’t like other cancers.

“Mothers, sisters, daughters need to be aware of the symptoms even if they think it is no big deal. Even after Bonnie had fluid on her lungs, it took us weeks to diagnose it as ovarian cancer,” he said.

Lovell described her mother as someone who was always 100 percent involved in her children’s lives, even hand-making costumes for dance recitals and knitting warm hats for the homeless during the holidays.

Lovell said she believes her mother would still be working toward spreading awareness today.

Donald Segers said he’s proud of the work his daughters are doing to keep their mother’s memory alive for others.

“It isn’t hard for us to remember her, but I think it gives the girls a feeling that something positive could come out of losing a mother,” he said.

The Head Over Teal run will begin at 8 a.m. at the Hoover Preserve.

Runners/walkers of all ages can register, form a team page, or learn about sponsorships online at thinkoflaura. com.

The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation organizes several events throughout the year, including advocacy days, golf tournaments, Taste of Teal and a comedy show called Tickled Teal. ❖

Photos special to the Journal

Homewood Family Promotes Ovarian Cancer Awareness Ahead of Head Over Teal Fun Run

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 11 Bonnie Segers, her husband, Donald, right and their three daughters, Laura, Julie and Blair, left, all began to volunteer with the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation – a Birmingham-based nonprofit supporting ovarian cancer research and awareness. Bonnie lost her battle with ovarian cancer on Dec. 1, 2011.

“Michelle Creamer matched us with the perfect house.”

When Ashley and Aaron Kuntz started the process of looking for a home, their banker recommended Realtor Michelle Creamer. “It was a great suggestion,” says Ashley.

“Michelle is an amazing agent. We realized homes were selling quickly and so we got about the business of looking and Michelle found the perfect match for us the first day.” Aaron says working with a professional like Michelle made the process easy.

“She answered all our questions and acted as our advocate. We gladly recommend Michelle to anyone looking to buy or sell a home.”

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Michelle says working with clients like Ashley and Aaron makes her job fun. “It’s a true pleasure to help people discover their place in Birmingham.”

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12 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Fields of Operation Doctor Thinks Pink for His Grandmother and the Future

By Emily Williams Fall is a busy time of year for a physician at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, and Dr. Jeff Dugas’ schedule is written proof.

On any given day, Dugas could meet 25 new faces before 3 p.m., which is one of the reasons he was drawn to a career in sports medicine.

“In orthopaedic sports medicine, especially, you are fixing things,” Dugas said. “There is

‘I come from a traditional Italian family. If you know anything about Italian families, it’s that the matriarch is the head of the family. The men might think they (are), but it’s the matriarch. It’s a sacred position.’

Photos by Mary Margaret Smith

that immediate gratification when you fix a problem and the patient can, more or less, return to their normal routine free of that previous pain.”

It’s one of the few areas of surgical medicine that Dugas said has a finish line for treatment within close range, which means quicker patient turnover.

“I realized early on that my personality wasn’t best suited to that long-term patient care, and thank God there are people who enjoy that,” he said.

During the month of October, Dugas is hoping to capitalize on that social side of his career to support breast cancer research by taking part in the American Cancer Society’s second annual Real Men Wear Pink campaign.

“If I can use whatever impact I have on the community to support a cause that helps others, then I’m ready to sign on,” Dugas said.

Dugas is one of two dozen men in the Birmingham area participating in this year’s campaign. Participants wear something pink throughout October and commit to raising at least $2,500. At the conclusion of the campaign, the top fundraiser will be recognized and named Pink Man of the Year.

Though breast cancer doesn’t play a major part in his career, Dugas’ personal life has been touched by the disease. In 2003, Dugas lost his maternal grandmother to breast cancer.

“I come from a traditional Italian family. If you know anything about Italian families, it’s that the matriarch is the head of the family. The men might think they (are), but it’s the matriarch. It’s a sacred position,” Dugas said.

At the time of her battle, Dugas’ 84-year-old grandmother held that position, and he had a special relationship with her, being the oldest grandchild of her oldest child.

Dugas decided to take advantage of geography and visit his family after a trip to Cooperstown, New York.

“I remember my mom and aunt’s warning me how sick she was and that she wouldn’t be

Jason Jack

Pink Purpose: Jeff Dugas is one of two dozen men in the Birmingham area participating in this year’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign. Participants wear something pink throughout October and commit to raising at least $2,500. At the conclusion of the campaign, the top fundraiser will be recognized and named Pink Man of the Year.

the same,” he said. “When I got there she came out and cooked, cleaned, played the piano, danced and hung out with me. It was as if she wasn’t sick at all. She passed away about 60-90 days later, and it shows just how strong she was.”

Dugas said he believes that a time lies in the not-so-distant future when breast cancer will be as treatable as a stress fracture.

“We are better at treating it now than we were 15 years ago and it will only get better as the medical world and science world progress,” he said.

The Real Men Wear Pink campaign isn’t Dugas’ first foray into volunteering. He volunteers as team physician for Troy University and medical director for USA Cheer, provides sports medicine assistance to the Birmingham Barons and the Alabama Ballet, and works with World Wrestling Entertainment. The Vestavia Hills resident also donates his time as team physician for Vestavia Hills High School, which he said is easy because of the high school’s two athletic trainers on staff.

“Any success that I have is only possible because of the people who support me and I stand on a lot of wonderful people’s shoul-

ders,” he said.

When it comes time to don pink, Dugas isn’t too worried about his days out of the operating room, especially now that he is the proud owner of a pink Troy University polo for game days.

At work, the selection of pink scrubs created a fashion statement reminiscent of Miss Piggy, Dugas said. Luckily, a member of the surgical support staff makes scrub caps and made a selection for Dugas using breast cancer-themed fabric.

In addition to Dugas, other members of the community who will be thinking pink this month are Bob Baker, Ryan Brown, Michael Choy, Andrew Collins, Richard Danner, Bezshan Dolatabadi, Jim Dunaway, Lee Edwards, Art Franklin, Bernard Frei, Courtney French, Daryl Grant, Will Haver, Thomas Hoffman, Jason Jack, David Jackson, Chris Lane, Brent McCullogh, Evan Ray, AC Roper, Brad Spencer, Lance Taylor and Wayne Trucks.

This year’s group of men will be recognized at a kickoff party at Carrigan’s Public House Sept. 22 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. For more information about Real Men Wear Pink, visit makingstrides.acsevents.org. ❖

Brent Mccullouch

ARt franklin

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 13

Continues on page 14 Facts About Breast Cancer • In 2016, an estimated 246,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and an estimated 40,890 will die from the disease.

Richard Danner

• Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women (excluding skin cancer) and second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women.

Photos by Mary Margaret Smith

• Breast Cancer death rates have declined by 36 percent since 1989, contributing to 249,000 lives saved.

• The five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer that has not spread to the lymph nodes or other locations is 99 percent.

David jackson

—American Cancer Society

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14 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

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Teaming Up

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

JOX Host Hopes He and Co-Hosts Don’t Run out of Pink Clothes

By Emily Williams A few weeks after Jim Dunaway and his fellow JOX Roundtable hosts decided to join the Real Men Wear Pink campaign, the evening news co-anchor for WIAT 42

Dunaway admitted he has always wanted to pierce an ear and would gladly don a pink earring to help spread awareness for a cause that is close to his heart.

Available in a wide variety of colors! $40

received news that his long-time friend Ruth Perkins of Texas had been diagnosed with breast cancer.

“It means the world to me that I get to be a part of this and raise awareness for breast cancer, especially when I will have a close friend experiencing the aftermath of treatment,” Dunaway said.

His relationship with breast cancer doesn’t rest solely in his friend’s struggle with the disease, he said.

Over the years, he has experienced diagnosis scares for various family members, most notably his wife.

Everyone has been touched in some way by breast cancer, Dunaway said; even those who haven’t experienced the disease or a scare can feel its weight.

“I have a daughter who is 15

years old and you know that a relationship between a father and his daughter is unlike anything,” he said. “I feel that breast cancer is a disease that really hits home for men because it has the ability to affect those people who are most important to a man: his mother, his wife and his daughter.”

Dunaway and his co-hosts, Ryan Brown and Lance Taylor, are teaming up to participate in the Real Men Wear Pink campaign.

“Everyone is really

revved up about this,” Dunaway said. “We’re just hoping we can get our hands on enough pink to last the month.”

Dunaway describes Taylor as Roundtable’s resident “GQ” man, whose trendy sense of style will easily accommodate the task at hand.

“After the show I usually head over to the news station, so it’ll be easy to throw on a pink tie,” Dunaway added.

“The one we’re really worried about is Brown.”

Dunaway has a back-up plan that he’s saving for himself in case the river of pink men’s clothing runs dry.

“I don’t have a lot of it, but I am thinking about dying a little patch of what hair I have left,” he said, pulling at some strands at the back of his neck.

If that doesn’t pan out, Dunaway admitted he has always wanted to pierce an ear and would gladly don a pink earring to help spread awareness for a cause that is close to his heart. ❖

Daryl Grant

brad spencer

wayne trucks

courtney french

evan ray

michael choy

bernard frei

bob baker

Pink Roundtable: Jox Roundtable hosts joining the fight against breast cancer in October are, from left: Ryan Brown, Jim Dunaway and Lance Taylor.

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 15

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure

THE FACE OF A Photo special to the Journal

CURE

Go Pink in October p.m., Full Moon BBQ will be donating 25 percent of all sales to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. The fundraising efforts will include all dine in, carry out and catering orders that are conducted at the Southside location. For more information, visit bcrfa.org

Sept. 29 and Oct. 12 BIRMINGHAM

Go Pink! T-Shirt Sale UAB North Pavilion Atrium The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama will be selling t-shirts in the North Pavilion Atrium at UAB Hospital Sept. 29 from 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Oct. 12 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Short-sleeved shirts are $15 and long-sleeved shirts are $20. For more information, visit bcrfa.org.

Sat., Oct. 8 HOOVER

Uncorked! On the Green Ross Bridge Welcome Center A free outdoor tasting festival, featuring various local culinary artists, will be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The event includes a wine tasting from noon-2 p.m. and beer sampling from 2:30-5 p.m. as well as music, local and regional artist, children’s activities, food for sale and more. VIP passes can be purchased for $30. Proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. For more information, visit uncorkedonthegreen.com.

Sun., Oct. 2 NORTH SHELBY COUNTY

Revvin’ 4 Research Heart of Dixie Harley-Davidson This eighth annual charity ride will begin at 1 p.m., benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and is $35 for a single rider and $60 for two or more. Participants will receive a shirt and admission to the after party, which includes lunch and entertainment. For more information, visit revvin4research.com.

Sun., Oct. 9 HOOVER

Mon., Oct. 3 BIRMINGHAM

BCRFA Fundraising Day at Full Moon Full Moon BBQ Southside Between the hours of 10 a.m.-5:30

Pink Private Shopping Night Belk at the Summit The eleventh annual event includes a night of private shopping from 6:309 p.m. Guests will receive up to 20 percent off of regular-priced items.

The event includes music, door prizes,

catering by Kathy G. and Company, complimentary beverages and more.

Tickets are $25. For more information, visit pinkprivateshoppingnight.com.

Tues., Oct. 11 BIRMINGHAM

Race for the Cure Linn Park Susan G. Komen of North Central Alabama will host Birmingham’s Race for the Cure 5k run/walk (pictured) beginning with a survivor parade at 8:30 a.m. The 5k will begin at 9 a.m. and a one-mile fun run and walk will start at 10 a.m. followed by an awards ceremony. Registration is $35 for adults and $25 for children ages 14 and under. For more information, visit komenncalabama.org.

Thurs., Oct. 20 HOOVER

Kendra Give Back: After Hours Shopping Event Kendra Scott at the Summit The jewelry store will host a party in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month from 5-8 p.m. The evening will include beverages, sweets and jewelry with 20 percent of all proceeds benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. For more information, visit bcrfa.org. ❖

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*The Children’s Oncology group is a clinical - translational trials organization with more than 9,000 experts worldwide dedicated to finding better cures and improving the outcomes for all children with cancer.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Dinner and a Show Exceptional Foundation Participants Sing, Dance and Drum at Fundraiser

More than 400 Exceptional Foundation supporters gathered Sept. 9 at The Country Club of Birmingham for the annual Dinnertainment fundraiser.

As guests enjoyed a seated dinner, they were treated to a variety of performances by foundation participants, individuals of all ages who have special needs.

The program began with participants singing “Oh Happy Day,” accompanied by the Junior League of Birmingham Choral Group. A drum circle performance featuring youth participants was followed by a telling of Jack and the Beanstalk.

Other performances include singing and dancing to Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary,” Sonny and Cher’s “I Got You Babe,” the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way” and Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”

The evening netted nearly $175,000 in donations that will help fund the organization’s year-round programs.

The event was hosted by foundation board President Rob Conrad with staff member Robbie Lee. Guests in attendance included Trenton Young, Jim Gorrie, Patrick O’Sullivan, Charles Mayer, Bill McCarty, Adam Rhoades, Jay Harbert, Margie and Sam Gray, Eric Bishop, Joe and Rosalie Giattina and Robert Schleusner. ❖

showtime: As guests enjoyed a seated dinner, they were treated to a variety of performances by foundation participants, individuals of all ages who have special needs.

Photos special to the Journal

16 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 17

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Camp SAM Hosts Monkey C Monkey Run The annual Monkey C Monkey Run, hosted by the Camp Smile-AMile’s junior board, had community members pounding the pavement around Homewood’s Central Park Sept. 10 in a 5k and one-mile fun run.

Overall winners in the 5K were Patricia Holbrook and Nathan Davis.

Winners in the Masters 40 and over category were Jill Bagby and Eric Sullivan.

The event served as part of the organization’s efforts to recognize Childhood Cancer Awareness Month throughout September.

Funds raised through the event will benefit the organization’s efforts to provide free recreational and educational experiences year-round for young cancer patients and their families as well as young adult survivors.

—Emily Williams

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

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Embrace each day with peace of mind.

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Fun run: Karen Grahn, above, with her daughters from left: Kendall, Jenna and Hannah. Right, Melisa Ballard.

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18 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 19

u over the mountain

Bells Tolled for Terrorism Victims During OTM Cities’ Patriot Day Ceremony

By Emily Williams

Officials and residents gathered in front of Mountain Brook Fire Station 1 on the morning of Sept. 11 to remember the first responders, U.S. military and civilians lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

After a wreath was laid on the portion of a beam from the World Trade Center that is displayed on the station’s lawn, a bell was rung for the lives lost: 60 members of the New York City and Port Authority Police Departments and 343 firefighters; 6,700 members of the armed forces lost at the Pentagon and in the war on terror; and 2,332 civilians lost in the World Trade Center, at the Pentagon and on each of the planes involved in the attacks.

“Today we honor and remember our first responders … who never take a break,” Homewood Mayor Scott MacBrayer said. “While you are sleeping at night, they are awake, ready to take action.”

Mountain Brook hosted this year’s

‘I urge you to tell your children, tell your grandchildren, tell your great grandchildren about this day.’ annual 9/11 Patriot Day remembrance ceremony, conducted in conjunction with Homewood and Vestavia Hills. The event was coordinated by Mountain Brook’s police and fire departments with each of the participating city’s mayors providing words of recognition.

Keynote speaker Jack Natter, Hoover resident and former rear admiral in the U.S. Navy, recounted his memory of the terrorist attacks. With three daughters serving in the armed forces, as well as a brother serving as a commanding officer on a naval ship near New York City, Natter recalled the sense of panic felt by himself and his family. One of his close friends was aboard American Airlines Flight 77 with his wife, on their way to California when it was hijacked.

“It was an event that teaches you how fragile life really is,” Natter said.

The sense of panic did not end that day or the following week, but remained as casualties continued to increase through the war on terror.

“I urge you to tell your children, tell your grandchildren, tell your great grandchildren about this day,” Natter said, pointing out that his nephew was in the crowd and had brought his son.

He concluded by saying that the purpose of sharing stories about the 9/11 attacks is not only to pay homage to the victims, but to teach younger generations so that, perhaps, history will not repeat itself. ❖

Above, representing 9/11 victims during the Laying of the Wreath ceremony are, from left: Janet Forbes, civilian; Sgt. Drew Evans, police; Gary Noah, fire; and Sgt. Tim Mari, military. Below, the portion of a beam from the World Trade Center that is displayed on the Mountain Brook Fire Station 1 lawn. Bottom, members of the Mountain Brook, Homewood and Vestavia Hills fire and police departments gather for the ceremony.

Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

Clockwise from left: Keynote speaker retired Rear Adm. Jack Natter with, from left, Vestavia Hills Fire Department Chief James St. John, Mountain Brook Police Chief Ted Cook and Mountain Brook Fire Chief Chris Mullins; Mountain Brook Fire Department Battalion Chief Patrick Dean performs the Bell Ceremony; Mountain Brook Fire Lt. Brent Cooper opens the ceremony with prayer and invocation; Stars and Stripes hang from Mountain Brook fire truck ladder during the ceremony; Brian Bowman of the Homewood Fire Department plays bagpipes; members of the community stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Hoover Hosts Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

In honor of the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Hoover Fire Department hosted its annual Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony Sept. 12 at Hoover Fire Station 2.

The ceremony featured as keynote speaker Hoover firefighter and paramedic Robert Gwin, a technical sergeant in the US Air Force and former marine who recently returned from deployment. Gwin gave a presentation on the American flag he flew while on deployment in honor of the late Marine Lance Cpl. Thomas Rivers Jr. Rivers lost his life at 22 while serving in Afghanistan, and his death led his parents, Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Rivers of Hoover, to found the organization Support Our Soldiers.

In addition to the ceremony, members of the department participated in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb held Sept. 10 in Panama City Beach, Florida.

In attendance along with more than 500 firefighters from throughout the South were Hoover fire Battalion Chief Clay Bentley, Capt. Tim Lawson, Lt. Marc Berry, Lt. Joseph Harbarger, and firefighters Scott Watkins, Andrew Ogle, Cody Cothron and Mike Prisoc.

—Emily Williams

20 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Photos by Arden Photography

Frances and Miller Gorrie.

From left: Dixon and Dell Brooke, Charlie and Sheri Perry and John and Molly Carter.

South of the Border ASO Maestro’s Ball Features Sounds of Latin America

T

he Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s annual gala fundraiser was held Sept. 9 at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, treating guests to an evening of food and music.

The event was held in a tent space decorated by Sybil Sylvestor of Wildflower Designs in a Mediterranean style, draped with white sisal carpets and iron chandeliers. Tables with cross back driftwood chairs were adorned with centerpieces featuring white hydrangeas, olive branches, artichokes and oranges.

A highlight of the evening was an orchestral performance conducted by the ASO’s music director, Carlos Izcaray.

Music was selected to reflect Izcaray’s Venezuelan background. The crowd heard Joaquin Turina’s “La Oratión del Torero,” Joaquin Rodrigo’s guitar concerto “Concierto de Aranjuez” and a selection from Georges Bizet’s opera “Carmen.”

“This year’s Maestro Ball, with a

Nellie and Tom Butler.

Spanish theme, made a personal connection for me, in that I have both Venezuelan and Spanish heritage in my ancestry,” Izcaray said. “It was very touching to see the audience’s enthusiastic response, both during and after the concert. The ball also started the Alabama Symphony’s season on a high note … . There are many classics and great programs to come, and we’re all excited and energized!”

Following the concert, a three-course meal was served, catered by Hot and Hot Fish Club.

Hosts for this year’s ball were: Charles D. Perry Jr. and his wife, Sheri. A corporate committee, chaired

by John Carter, included Scott Adams, Dell and Dixon Brooke, Barbara Burton, Greg Curran, Trey Echols, C.T. Fitzpatrick, Bill Horton, Brian Mackin, Gordon Martin, Emmett McLean, Charlie Perry, Jim Richardson, Bruce Rogers and Bill Terry. ❖

Tracy Anderson and Bill and Emily Bowron.

Jon Miller, Mary Ann Cisco, Dell Brooke and Jean Morrison.

Debbie and Bob Kristofco.

Bart and Mary Lauren McBride and Kelly and Ron Morrison.

Chris Hastings, Susan Curtin, Idie Hastings and Tom Curtin.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Festive Finale

The Birmingham Museum of Art celebrated its final installment of the annual Art on the Rocks summer series Aug. 19.

The staple photo booth was complete with a 2016 Olympics-themed backdrop and plenty of props to make guests feel as if they had won gold.

In addition to the concert performances, Chicago-based Jeanette Andrews gave a magical performance of her illusions. Screenings of the Sidewalk Film Festival shorts were available as well, giving guests a preview of the following weekend’s film event.

The finale of the evening was a musical performance by the band Sweet Crude. ❖

Claire Burns, Lizz Mastrandonas and Tara Massouleh.

Photos by Nik Layman

BMA Closes Summer Art on the Rocks Series

From left: Michael Morrow, Laura Perry, Maria Evans and Michael Hanson.

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 21

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

22 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

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Above, Cody Nall and Hanna Nall.

Left, from left: Campbell Bailey, Evelyn Roberts, Big Al and Sarah Bailey.

Ready to Rumble Bell Center Hosts Tailgate Tasting Event

The Bell Center for Early Intervention in Homewood celebrated its eighth annual Tailgate Challenge Aug. 27.

More than 1,200 event-goers tasted a variety of tailgating foods served up at 35 team tents.

In addition to football fanfare, the band LiveWire provided music and activities occupied children.

The tasting competition was judged by local celebrities from WJOX RoundTable as well as the Lochamy Brothers, Scott Register of Birmingham Mountain Radio, Steven “Stingray” Ray, Lauren Sisler of al.com and Ashlee Jones of Coca Cola Bottling.

Winning teams included University of Oklahoma for team spirit, University of Missouri for besttasting food and Mississippi State for best all-around. The Nall-Whatley Foundation won the People’s Choice award.

The event was organized through the efforts of planning committee members Colby Nicholson, Craig Krawczyk, David Goff, Drew Brignac, Jennifer Zaher, Jess Mason, John Kilcoyne, Kirsten McCorkle, Madison Merrill, Missy Haughery, Rebecca Gordon, Tahara Evans, Turner LaMaster and Wayne Miller. ❖

Above, Jennifer Hagler, Anna Carlisle Worrell, Riley Graham and Casey Worrell.

Below, Chris and Jessica Davis, Penny Wells, Wells Davis and Glen Wells.

Betts Colquett with Samford University Cheerleaders.

Justin Slaughter, Rebekah Fitts and Ashley Benson.

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 23

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Katie Beck, Audrey Pannell and Claire Per-Lee.

Pooches on the Patio

Pups and People Gathered at Vino Event for the Humane Society Custom made 14k Gold Cuff BraCelets

Photos special to the Journal

Vino, an Italian-Mediterranean restaurant in English Village, recently hosted the Pooches on the Patio event benefiting the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

GBHS brought about 40 adoptable pups to the Aug. 31 event, which marked Vino’s fifth anniversary. The event also featured signature cocktails, goody bags and a drawing for prizes, and the restaurant donated a portion of its proceeds to GBHS. “When the weather is nice, our patio is full of dogs, so partnering with this wonderful organization is a great way for us to give back to the community while celebrating our fifth anniversary,” said Vino owner Al Rabiee.

More than 100 guests were in attendance and nearly $500 was raised for GBHS. Each guest went home with a bag of dog treats for their pets, as well as a goodie bag with Vino’s famous apple fritters.

“We are honored to join Vino for their fifth anniversary celebration, and we are so grateful for their support,” said Allison Black Cornelius, CEO of the GBHS. “Plus, we always look forward to opportunities to facilitate adoptions and find these animals a forever-home.” ❖

5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 980-9030 southeasternjewelers.net (1/4 mile off 280)

Betsie Boggs with Marcel.

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Renee Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax August

This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the august 25, 2016 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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24 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Rehab Reality

Photos by Lynsey Weatherspoon

by Jeff Butler

Get Off of Your Back Some days are just harder than others.

I don’t think anyone will argue with that. What I do think people might argue with is why some days are harder than others. I know that when I was in active addiction it was never my fault.

It’s truly amazing when I think back to those days how everything and everyone were conspiring against me.

Of course once I got sober, I was able to admit that I was my own worst enemy, and likely my only one, too.

It’s much easier to justify our self-destructive behavior as results of other’s actions against you than it is to accept any blame personally.

Now I’m not saying that life doesn’t trip you up every now and then through no fault of your own. Stuff (I really want to use another word) happens. What I’m saying is that when you finally have some clarity and perspective, you handle those obstacles differently.

Addiction and alcoholism turn molehills into mountains.

Learning to live sober will shrink those problems down to size. We can help with that. Get off of your own back. I think you’ll find that your rough days are fewer and farther between if you do.

Call the number below. My mom will answer your call.

From left: Kathleen Roth, F. Dixon Brooke Jr., Dell Brooke, Collin Mitchell, Bill Foster, Wally Nall, Jennifer Ard, Lynn Cassady and Lindsey Lacey.

Eastern Excursion Annual Gala Celebrates New Asian Passage Exhibit

More than 400 patrons and supporters of the Birmingham Zoo gathered for the annual ZooGala Sept. 16 in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. The event is recognized as one of the highest grossing galas in the Zoo’s history, raising more than $440,000 through attendance and silent auction alone.

The event was coordinated by gala chairs Jennifer Ard, Lindsey Lacey, Colin Mitchell and Kathleen Roth and by gala adviser Lynn Cassady.

Honorary chairs for the event were F. Dixon Brooke Jr. and his wife, Dell.

Asian-themed decor set the tone for the evening with origami displays, parasols, bamboo and orchids, celebrating the zoo’s upcoming addition, the Asian Passage Exhibit. Renovations to existing habitats will accommodate the zoo’s species from the Far East, including the Malayan tiger, Komodo dragon and red panda.

Partygoers were treated to an Asian-inspired dinner catered by Kathy G. and Company and a silent auction, which featured a travel package to India.

A highlight of the evening was a dragon dance, performed by members of the Confucius Institute at Auburn University at Montgomery.

Animal walkabouts treated guests to an up-close animal encounter with the cockatoo, ball python, possum and more.

Following the meal, the band A-Town A-List provided live entertainment. ❖

Bryan and Cindy Barr with Frank and Mary Bradley Anderson.

Victor and Janelle Sung, Nina Kraguljac, Andi Dickens and Paul O’Leary.

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Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 25

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Tasting in Town

Patrons gathered in Mountain Brook’s Crestline Village Sept. 18 to enjoy a day celebrating some of the city’s local restaurants at the second annual Taste of Mountain Brook event. A rain shower provided an opportunity for attendees young and old a chance to cool off.

The event served as a fundraiser for All In Mountain Brook, a communitybased nonprofit that serves to enhance and protect Mountain Brook’s youth.

Guests had the opportunity to taste a variety of dishes from more than 20 local catering companies and restaurants.

In addition to food, a variety of kids’ games were stationed on the field in front of Emmett O’Neal Library, including a sack race, egg on a spoon, three-legged and wheelbarrow races, apple bobbing and fire truck spray. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Mountain Brook Hosts Annual Event Celebrating Local Eats

Clockwise from above: Enjoying a taste of rain; Georgia Jayne Stuckey and Tatum McCarthy; Heather Stuckey with son James and Catherine McCarthy; and Piggly Wiggly representatives, Andrew Virciglio, Garrett Osborn and Austin Virciglio.

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26 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

Local Author’s New Children’s Book Celebrates Strange, Scary Species

Raising Alabama

Canfield Builds State’s Commerce on Three Pillars

By Lee Davis

Birmingham Zoo Scores Coveted AZA Accreditation The Birmingham Zoo has been granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ independent Accreditation Commission.

To achieve accreditation, the Birmingham Zoo went through a thorough investigation to ensure it has and will continue to meet the AZA’s ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety.

AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years to maintain accreditation.

The process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team that observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational

By Emily Williams

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

A phone call from the governor’s office was the last thing in the world Greg Canfield was expecting on Independence Day weekend of 2011.

After a successful career in business and on the Vestavia Hills City Council, Canfield had settled in at his position as the chairman of the Commerce and Small Business Committee in the Alabama House of Representatives. Changing positions wasn’t even on his radar when the call from Montgomery came.

“Someone from Governor (Robert) Bentley’s office was on the line and wanted to know if I was interested in taking a job in the administration,” Canfield recalled last week. “But he wouldn’t tell me what position it would be. I told them there was one job I would take, but I wouldn’t be more specific. He said he’d get back to me. About an hour later, he called back and offered me the job of director of the Department of Commerce. I told him that was the one job I would take, and that’s exactly what happened.”

Since then, Canfield has worked tirelessly to tell the success stories of Alabama to all parts of the nation and the world – and also to tell his fellow Alabamians what their state has to offer.

“We actually do a lot of third party promoting as we let the companies that have come here talk about the good things that have happened since they have chosen to locate in Alabama,” Canfield said. “They can best tell the Alabama story through their positive experiences in our state.”

Canfield said that Alabama’s best selling point is its people.

“All of the companies who have come are impressed with the type of workers they get,” he said. “They are high-quality people who are productive and have a strong work ethic.”

Alabama’s winning approach to attracting new industry involves three pillars, according to Canfield.

“First is the quality and work ethic of our citizens,” Canfield reiterated. “Second is the great business environment we have created with corporate tax rates that encourage growth and investment. Also is the fact that we are a right-to-work state, where workers can choose whether or not they want to join a union.”

Canfield said that many Alabamians do not realize the success that the state is having when it

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

As director of the Department of Commerce for the state of Alabama, Greg Canfield has worked tirelessly to tell the success stories of Alabama to all parts of the nation and the world – and also to tell his fellow Alabamians what their state has to offer. Canfield spoke to members of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce at their monthly luncheon last week.

comes to bringing in more and better jobs.

“We tend to be our most severe critics,” he explained. “Most people I meet don’t realize that our state is the fifth-largest producer of vehicles in the nation. And we are the third-largest exporter of vehicles in the nation. Our growth is coming from far more than just manufacturing. We are growing in technology and science. We have more than 14,000 people employed in the bio-science field.”

The aerospace industry is thriving as well, and not only in traditional areas such as Huntsville, Canfield said. Airbus’s presence in Mobile gives a high technology presence in the southern part of the state.

“Boeing employs about 3,500 people in Alabama,” Canfield noted.

One of the biggest challenges for Alabama is the intensity of the competition to lure quality industries.

“We not only compete with our neighboring other states but also states from other regions and foreign countries – Mexico in particular. Even the more liberal states like New York have figured out that the best way to draw new industries is with lower taxes and a better business environment.”

Another of Canfield’s innovations is the creation of the Commerce Department’s Workforce Development Division, which works to connect Alabamians entering the job market to in-state opportunities in their chosen fields. programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; and visitor services. The inspection team prepares an extensive report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled or denied.

The zoo lost accreditation in the 1990s. But in 1999 it was turned into a private non-profit with a new board, new plans for expansion and new initiatives.

“By meeting high Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards once again, the Birmingham Zoo has demonstrated it

“We want to create an awareness among our citizens of what is available right here,” he said.

“For example, someone with a degree in aerospace engineering might think he might have to go to Houston or California to get a good job. We want to get the word out about what’s available right here at home – and not only in Huntsville.”

The issue of trade policy has come into the spotlight in the 2016 presidential campaign.

Canfield said Alabama’s exporters want international open markets for their products but understand that it must be a two-way street.

“We produce many fine products and we have a great opportunity to expand our presence in international trade,” he said. “There are good trade deals and bad trade deals. We want trade to be free – but also fair.”

Times and economic conditions will change, but Canfield is optimistic about Alabama’s future.

“One thing that impresses me most is the spirit of cooperation between local governments, the state and business,” he said. “I learned an appreciation for that when I served on the Vestavia City Council. As long as that continues, I’m very excited about what lies ahead for us economically.”

Canfield isn’t quite as direct in discussing his political plans for the future.

“I’m not ready to talk about that now,” he said.

“I just want to do all I can to help our state grow and prosper.” ❖ is in the top tier of zoo’s within North America and around the world,” Dr. William Foster, Birmingham Zoo president and CEO, said in a statement.

“On behalf of the staff and board of directors, I invite the community to experience your Birmingham Zoo and see why it is such an important staple of the Birmingham community. We will continue to work to meet and exceed the ever-rising standards of the AZA and are excited as we close in on the $18 million goal of the Renew the Zoo Capital Campaign.”

For more information on the zoo, which is home to about 900 animals in 230 species, visit www.birminghamzoo.com. ❖ Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

From the office of Charles Ghigna’s “treehouse,” a 1927 English Tudor in Homewood, the poet and author has pumped out more than 100 children’s books, and on Oct. 1 he will celebrate the release of a book he calls his “biggest and baddest.”

Backed by Time Inc.’s Animal Planet and Discovery, Ghigna has written “Strange, Unusual, Gross and Cool Animals,” a 128page book that explores some of the world’s creepiest of crawlies. While most of his picture books have gotten a first print run of 5,000 to 10,000 copies, Animal Planet is planning to break Ghigna’s personal record and print 50,000 copies in the first run.

The book is a coffee table size collection of close-up photographs taken by some of the world’s top nature photographers.

Ghigna was tasked Charles Ghigna with writing the text for each animal, profiling the creature in terms suitable for a child of 8 to 12 years old.

“It was a little daunting at first, but once I got started it was fun being pushed out of my comfort zone to see what I might create,” Ghigna said. “Laura Tucker and the other children’s librarians at the Homewood Public Library helped me get started by providing me with stacks of great reference books for my research.”

While Ghigna’s wife, Debra, was always on hand to offer support, suggestions and a pot of coffee, his granddaughter Charlotte provided a child’s perspective.

“She liked sitting at my desk looking at each new spread that came in to my computer from my editors in New York,” he said. “Once while Charlotte was looking at the photos and reading the text aloud, I heard her read the same word twice. She caught a typo, becoming perhaps the first 5-year-old proofreader in the world!”

Honoring her voluntary help, Ghigna gave Charlotte his very first advance copy of the book, which arrived days before her birthday.

“Her reaction to the book was priceless,” he said. “She immediately sat down at the kitchen table and began reading it aloud to me – as though I needed to know exactly what I wrote.”

Ghigna and Animal Planet’s mission for the book is to present kids with the fascinating side of animals that are normally seen as scary.

“I looked for the all the strange, unusual, gross and cool things I could about each animal and tried to give the reader a light-hearted, fun look at each one,” he said.

Many of the species are newly discovered, making their homes in distant parts of the world.

As many of them are highly dangerous, Ghigna learned everything he could about each animal through the safety of a computer screen, books

See, Ghigna, page 27

ghigna, From page 26

and photos.

If he could, he said, he would have loved to meet some of those more bizarre creatures like the blobfish.

Known as the world’s ugliest fish thanks to its muscleless form and fleshy color, the fish resides at ocean depths of up to 4,000 feet off the coasts of Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania.

Living a little closer to home is Ghigna’s favorite “scary” creature, the Rosy Wolfsnail. Originally from Hawaii, the species has found a home in Alabama and, according to Ghigna, “is now proliferating like kudzu.” The creature is a cannibal and three times faster than any other snail.

Though the book is quite different from his normal children’s fiction in rhyme, Ghigna pays homage to his poetic nature by beginning each section with a poem.

“No matter what the subject, I always feel it is my job as a writer for children to present the material in an entertaining way,” he said. “For me, that usually results in using humor and rhyme in the most original way I can. I was grateful that my Animal Planet editors allowed me to sneak in a few bits of poetry and wit.”

On Oct. 1, Ghigna will host a celebratory event at the Homewood Public Library from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. In addition to introducing “Strange, Unusual, Gross and Cool Animals,” he will present his new children’s book “A Parade of Puppies.” Ghigna will be joined by adoptable dogs from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, but he said he hasn’t offered an invitation to the Rosy Wolfsnail.

“Strange, Unusual, Gross and Cool Animals” is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com and will be released Oct. 11.

For more information on Ghigna, visit charlesghigna.com. ❖

business briefs

Children’s Hires State’s First Dedicated Pediatric Oral Surgeon Dr. Kathlyn Powell of Mountain Brook recently joined Children’s of Alabama as a dedicated pediatric oral surgeon. She is the first doctor hired into the position not only at Children’s, but in the state.

Powell will maintain her position as an assistant professor in the UAB School of Dentistry’s Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. In her role at Children’s, she will work with patients and with the Cleft and Craniofacial Center and the Aerodigestive Program.

Powell received a bachelor’s in biomedical sciences from Auburn University and completed her doctor of dental medicine and doctor of medicine degrees at UAB. Additionally, she completed a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery at UAB, as well as a fellowship in pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery.

She is a member of the American Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Alabama Dental Association and Birmingham District Dental Society.

Freshwater Land Trust Welcomes New Executive Director The Freshwater Land Trust has named Libba Vaughan the new executive director of the organization, according to a recent announcement.

Vaughan will be taking the position of Wendy Jackson, who, after 15 years in the position, has been named executive vice president of the National Land Trust Alliance.

Vaughan served the organization as the communications and development coordinator from 2005 to 2010 before accepting a position

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 27

business/weddings

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

leading the Office of Service Learning and Undergraduate Research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “(Vaughan) is an experienced and entrepreneurial leader, and under her guidance, the Freshwater Land Trust’s board of directors and dedicated staff look forward to taking the organization into a new era of conservation,” Memorie English, communications director, said in a released statement.

The Amandas Organization Shop to Open in Homewood Amanda LeBlanc will be opening a retail store, The Amandas – Custom Closets & Organizing, in Homewood next month.

The store will specialize in the design and installation of custom organization configurations for kitchens, closets, offices and garages as well as overall home planning.

The 2,000-square-foot boutique, at 2822 18th St. South, will include model setups for the kitchen, laundry room, garage storage, mudroom, desk space, closets and pantries. Also included will be a design space where the store’s professional organizers can consult with customers and come up with custom organization solutions.

LeBlanc, a professional lifestyle organizer and designer, has operated the Birminghambased firm The Amandas since 2003, consulting with clients from all over the world. In 2012, she was featured in a reality TV show that also was called “The Amandas.”

“I always knew when the right time and place came along, I would jump at the opportunity to bring a custom closets and organizing retail store to the Birmingham market,” LeBlanc said in a news release. “Homewood is one of my favorite areas in Birmingham and the perfect place to merge my team’s organization and design skills with a level of upscale organization options this market deserves.” ❖

Juliano-Laney

Carrie Jacqueline Juliano and Randall “Brett” Laney were married May 21 at the Cathedral of St. Paul.

Father Gerald Holloway and Monsignor Michael Sexton officiated the ceremony. The couple was presented with a papal blessing from Pope Francis at the conclusion of the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jasper Paul Juliano of Mountain Brook. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Basil Juliano and the late Mr. and Mrs. Mike Joseph Puccio.

The bride is a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama, where she was a cheerleader and a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. She is a specialty sales representative with Eli Lilly & Co. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Randy Obie Laney of Dothan.

He is the grandson of Mrs. Jessie Merle Lewis and the late Mr. Donald Kayo Lewis and the late Mr. and Mrs. Obie Ray Laney.

The groom received a master’s degree in business from the University of Alabama and is a financial adviser with Edward Jones in Tuscaloosa.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a beaded French Alencon lace A-line gown with a sweetheart neckline by Monique Lhuillier. Her custom-made lace straps and neckline were highlighted with hand beading using hundreds of Swarovski crystals that delicately flowed into her bodice. Her back was accentuated with lace-covered buttons that cascaded into her cathedral train.

She wore a custom-made cathedral veil with crystal- beaded French Alencon lace. A demure comb of seed pearls and Swarovski crystals in the

bride’s hair completed the ensemble.

She carried a hand-tied bouquet of pink and white garden roses encircled with ivory satin ribbon and the same crystal Rosary beads carried by her Mother on her wedding day.

Amy Elizabeth Dowdey, childhood friend, was the maid of honor.

Katherine Beall Juliano, sister-in-law of the bride, and Kelsé Laney Saban, sister of the groom, were matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Elizabeth DeGraffenried Burgess, Ragan Dillon Cain, Sarah Elizabeth Dawson, Melissa Juliano Donaldson, Rebecca Rachel Holt, Lacey Gray Hyche, Jessica Lauren Juliano, Leah Marina Juliano, Fleming Holt Long, Sarah Norville Peinhardt, Bethany Ruth Powe, Katherine Marie Seeger and Maggie Ann Seeger.

The bride’s attendants wore chiffon floor-length gowns in three shades of pink. They carried bouquets of roses in three shades of pink. The flower girls were Karoline Alexis Juliano, niece of the bride, and Amélie Elizabeth Saban, niece of the groom.

They wore custom-made heirloom French hand-sewn dresses.

Randy Obie Laney, father of the groom, Paul Michael Juliano, brother of the bride, and Nicholas Michael Saban, brother-in-law of the groom, were best men. Groomsmen were Jeffrey Kennedy Anderson Jr., Brandon Hamilton Apida, John Adam Arrington, Jeremy Steven Bell, Bradley Elden Buchanan, James Keith Coker, Richard Coogan IV, Gary Campbell Ferguson, Kent Walter Guillot, Steven Brett Scyphers, Justin Roger Senn, Malcom Howard Senn and Frederick Scott Stetson. The ring bearer was Paul Michael Juliano Jr., nephew of the bride.

A reception followed at The Club’s Grand Ballroom. The entryway to the ballroom was draped with sheer fabric and a garland border of roses. The ballroom was decorated with massive silver urns and candelabras of roses in shades of pink. The ceiling was draped with sheer fabric and lights, and the chandeliers were encircled with pink roses. Guests enjoyed dinner, dancing and a fireworks display.

The couple left the reception to pink and silver ribbon wands and pink rose petals, driving away in a vintage white Rolls-Royce during a fireworks display.

After a honeymoon trip to Grand Velas in Puerto Vallarta, the couple live in Tuscaloosa.

Stoltz-Abernethy

Mrs. Jennifer Dirmann Davis of Canton, Ohio, and Mr. Glenn Andrew Stoltz Jr. of San Diego announce the engagement of their daughter, Madeline Gabrielle Stoltz, to Benton Sterling Abernethy IV, son of Mrs. Ann Boelens Abernethy of Birmingham and Mr. Benton Sterling Abernethy III of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Gerry Abney Dirmann and the late Mr. Joseph Michael Dirmann of Abita Springs, Louisiana, and Mrs. Gerry Bosch Stoltz and the late Mr. Glenn Andrew Stoltz Sr. of Mandeville, Louisiana.

Miss Stoltz is a graduate of St. Scholastica Academy in Covington, Louisiana, and will begin her final semester in geosciences at Louisiana State University in January. She is a registered radiologic technologist and a member of Lambda Nu National Honors Society.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Havard Boelens of Opelousas, Louisiana, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Benton Sterling Abernethy Jr. of Baton Rouge.

Mr. Abernethy is a graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and Auburn University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in health promotion and a master’s degree in exercise physiology. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Order. Mr. Abernethy is employed with Louisiana Cardiology Associates, Baton Rouge.

The wedding will be Dec. 23 in Covington.

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823-9646

28 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

schools

Leaders of Tomorrow

Vestavia Hills Educators Receive State, National Awards

YLF Accepts Applications For 2016-17 Class

Photo special to the Journal

By Emily Williams Sophomores and juniors in the Jefferson County area have the opportunity to get out of their school systems and interact with peers and professionals throughout the greater Birmingham area when they apply for the Youth Leadership Forum.

The program is an outgrowth of Leadership Birmingham and seeks to promote community awareness and foster leadership skills in its participants.

A mother of Mountain Brook city schools graduates, YLF Executive Director Susie Abbott said she can appreciate the opportunity it gives both suburban and inner-city students to socialize with their counterparts.

“Kids tend to get stuck in these smaller communities, you know how they call it ‘Boringham,’” Abbot said. “At that first meeting you’ll see everyone sticking with their like groups – the Mountain Brook students with the Vestavia students and so on – and gradually during the day you watch those groups break down.”

Abbott recalls a previous YLF class engaging in an open discussion about race and acceptance by the end of one meeting in an effort to make one of their classmates feel more confident and comfortable.

In addition to breaking down community barriers, the YLF class is exposed to various cogs of the machine that makes a city run.

Students miss one day of school each month to participate in a YLF program, with each of those meetings following a different theme. There is a day for arts, a day for government, a human services day and an economic development and education day.

During a day devoted to a specific area of the city, representatives from the city, organizations, companies and such interact with the students.

On arts day, students choose an area of the arts that interests them and engage in the activity. On government day, they interact with elected officials. On economic development day,

Members of the 2013 class of the Youth Leadership Forum, from left: Michael Barrett, Josh Brown, Richard McLin, Lillidra McCray, Elise Turner, Eric Allums, Foster Noone, Becky Thielman and Laure Bender.

representatives of various local businesses have breakfast with the class.

“My favorite is human services day,” Abbott said. “My background includes volunteering with the Junior League of Birmingham, so that is where my heart is.”

On that day, the Junior League donates $1,000 to an agency of the class’ choosing. Each student chooses a human services agency, creates and gives a presentation on the organization and then the class as a whole chooses a winner to receive the donation.

“For the past two years it has gone to the Firehouse Shelter,” Abbott said. “At the closing retreat, the Junior League gives them a big check to present.”

Even though she has a favorite day, Abbott said the entire process is one she enjoys year after year. She tries her best to keep in touch with the program graduates and said she has written her fair share of recommendation letters on their behalf. Abbott added that three of those recommendations she has written, two for Hoover students and one for a Homewood student, were for Stanford University.

“These kids are real go-getters,” Abbott said.

“On days when they are networking with professionals, you’ll see some of them getting those business cards and shaking hands.”

She added that the professionals who participate are more than happy to interact with the kids, and recruiting adults is never a difficult task for her to accomplish.

“It’s all about investing in young people,” Abbott said. “They have a lot to offer the community and this is a way to give them the tools to make their mark.”

Applications for YLF are due Oct. 3 by 4 p.m. and must be submitted through a guidance counselor. Students eligible for the program must have a B average in school and the ability to commit to attend every meeting. A group interview process will take place before students are selected for the program.

Abbott’s interview advice to any prospective applicants was to keep up to date on current events in Birmingham and be ready to offer up some ideas on how to better the city of Birmingham.

For more information, visit ylfbham.org. ❖

Mountain Brook Elementary Opens New Playground

Three Vestavia Hills educators recently were recognized with state and national awards.

Dr. Mark Richardson, principal at Vestavia Hills Elementary East, was named 2017 Outstanding Administrator by the Alabama Music Educators Association. The award is given annually to a school administrator who shows a special interest and dedication to music education.

“I am so excited about this recognition for Dr. Richardson and our school,” Deanna Bell, music teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary East, said in a released statement. Bell nominated Richardson for the award.

Vestavia Hills High School math teacher Todd Taylor received the 2016 Edyth May Sliffe Award for Distinguished Mathematics Teaching in Middle and High School. According to the awards committee for the Mathematical Association of America, the award recognizes secondary math teachers whose “encouragement and commitment” to student success has made an impact in their “problem-solving abilities and love of mathematics.”

The organization also awarded Taylor with a $500 stipend.

VHHS history teacher Amy Maddox was named Alabama History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Award winners are chosen among American history teachers who demonstrated a commitment to creativity in the classroom. Maddox will receive a $1,000 stipend and be placed in the running for the organization’s National History Teacher of the Year award to be announced this fall.

“We are so proud of these educators for their achievements,” Vestavia Hills city school Superintendent Sheila Phillips said. “Their commitment to teaching and learning is evident in the work they do each day, and we are pleased to see that their peers around the state and nation are taking note.”

Junior League Recruits Students for Fashion Fundraiser The Junior League of Birmingham is recruiting local high school students to participate in the annual Rock the Runway: Couture for a Cause fashion show. The event will take place Dec. 3 and is annually held in conjunction with the league’s Market Noel.

The fashion show will feature clothing from Lilly Pulitzer and will begin with a “mommy and me” walk featuring Junior League members and their children. Teen models will then take to the 100-foot catwalk wearing outfits coordinated by Market Noel merchants.

Students interested in participating in the show must be in grades 9-12. The first 50 students who register will be accepted to walk in the show.

To register, visit marketnoel.com.

Hoover Senior Attends State Leadership Forum

Photo by Kimberly Powell

Faculty, staff, students and parents gathered at Mountain Brook Elementary School on Sept. 1 to celebrate the opening of the school’s new playground.

A campaign to raise money for the project was initiated last year by the school’s PTO, led by Eleanor Estes under the leadership of Vice President of Fundraising Paige Drew.

According to PTO officials, an ADA-compliant play structure was chosen after consultations with the city of Mountain Brook’s Parks and Recreation department, the school board and special education experts, as well as MBE faculty, staff, parents and students. With more than eight percent of the student body having special needs, the playground needed to accommodate not only a wide range of ages, but a wide range of physical and mental disabilities. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Mountain Brook Elementary School Principal Ashley McCombs and Assistant Principal Brannon Aaron.

Hoover High School senior Hunter Fair spent a portion of his summer at Troy University taking part in the Alabama Governor’s Youth Leadership Forum. The five-day career leadership training program for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities took place June 5-9.

Fair was one of 30 students selected from across the state to take part in the program.

Hunter Fair Throughout the week, he participated in educational activities regarding disability history, career planning, leadership development and more.

Fair is the son of Sam and Kathy Fair of Hoover. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

home

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 29

Antiques at the gardens

Outside Art Antiques at The Gardens Returns for 11th Year With Old Favorites and New Twists

Photos special to the Journal

By Donna Cornelius

Local Roots

Landscape Designer Todd Dorlon Inherited a Love of Gardening from His Grandmother

By Donna Cornelius It’s no big deal for a landscape design-

er to improve gardens by digging up plants.

But it’s another thing to transplant a whole family.

Todd Dorlon, who owns TMD Landscape Designs, did just that when he decided to leave the financial world and pursue something he’d always wanted to do. After graduating from Birmingham-Southern College and working for a while in banking, he decided to go back to school to study environmental design through Auburn University’s School of Architecture.

“I was married and had a child – in fact, we moved to Auburn on his first birthday,” Dorlon said. “It was really scary to uproot my family. We were living in Birmingham and had a support system here, and there were financial considerations, too.”

Dorlon and his family now live in Vestavia Hills. He’ll be one of the tastemakers at this year’s Antiques at The Gardens on Oct. 6-9.

Tastemakers are regionally and nationally known architects, interior designers and garden designers who will curate themed areas at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens event.

“Birmingham is really home,” Dorlon said.

“My mom grew up here, and I lived here from

Birmingham Bound Designer Jeffrey Bilhuber is Making His First Visit to the Magic City.... Page 30.

Home Grown: Tastemaker Todd Dorlon, TMD Landscape Designs grew up in Birmingham.

birth through ninth grade. I went to three years of high school in Mobile.”

After graduating from Auburn, Dorlon worked for several other landscaping companies before opening his own business in 2011.

“That was a really big step,” he said. “I had wonderful help from someone who does the same thing I do, Kelly Hulsey.”

His decision to switch careers has paid off. Dorlon’s gardens have been featured in Southern Living several times, including on the cover of the magazine’s special 50th anniversary issue, “Best Southern Homes.” He’s won an award from the American Nursery and

Landscape Association, too.

His grandmother, Joy Magruder, taught him to love gardening, he said.

“She was a huge gardener,” Dorlon said.

“She lived in the same house in Mountain Brook for 50 years. She really influenced me a lot and encouraged me when I decided to go back to school.”

His grandmother’s garden had Southern favorites such as boxwoods, ginger lilies, snowball viburnums and Japanese maples, he said.

“When I was asked to participate in Antiques at The Gardens, I wanted to use something of hers,” he said. “So at the event, I’m using something that I took out of her garden when she died: a piece of statuary.”

Those who attend Antiques at The Gardens will have a hard time missing Dorlon’s display.

“It will be the entrance everyone will walk through to go to the event,” he said. “I’ll create a garden on the concrete plaza. I designed a bench I’m having built, and I’m having a pergola built. It will take me about five days to set everything up.”

Dorlon said he’s been “fortunate to be able to borrow” items from several Birmingham businesses, including Brandino Brass Co., SiteOne Landscape Supply, The Arbor and Summer Classics.

He’ll place tall hedges around the perimeter of the display to screen the garden area, he said, and he’ll have a new floor laid on top of

See roots, page 33

This year’s edition of Antiques at The Gardens has all the elements that have made the event so popular over the last 10 years: fascinating lectures, tasteful and creative displays, and opportunities to learn and to buy.

But the Birmingham Botanical Gardens fundraiser, set for Oct. 6-9, is always fresh and lively thanks to the people who participate as speakers, tastemakers, dealers and supporters.

Jeffrey Bilhuber, a high-profile interior designer, and floral designer Michael Grim will be sharing their know-how through the Red Diamond Lecture Series. Tastemakers, including both local and national experts, will curate themed areas at the event. Antiques dealers will come from all over the United States to show and sell their wares.

Getting a special tribute this year are Frances and Miller Gorrie, the 2016 Antiques at The Gardens honorees.

The Gorries have a long history of involvement with the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Miller Gorrie’s company, Brasfield & Gorrie, built the Intro to Calligraphy by Mary M. Blount Holly Hollon, above, is Education Complex scheduled for Oct. 8. at the Garden Center.

The project, completed in 1998, included the addition of the Linn-Henley Lecture Hall, the Friends of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens offices, the Hanna Center and the Library at the Gardens. The company established the torii gate, the entrance to the Japanese Gardens, in 1975.

Frances Gorrie worked with Bob Moody and Mary Carolyn Cleveland on additions to The Gardens in 1998, including meeting rooms, an orientation room and the space that now houses The Gardens Café by Kathy G. She had a leading role in the operations of the Gatehouse Gift Shop from 1989 to 1997. She followed her active involvement in The Gardens with the opening of Blackjack Gardens, a retail store adjacent to the family’s farm.

Speakers for the event’s Red Diamond Lecture Series always draw a crowd. One of those will be Michael Grim, who owns The Bridgehampton Florist in Bridgehampton, N.Y., in partnership with Jim Osborn. They offer inhome floral design services and event planning and provide holiday floral needs throughout the Hamptons. One of their largest annual events is the Hampton Classic Horse Show. Grim is regularly featured on Ina Garden’s “Barefoot Contessa” TV show on Food Network.

Also speaking will be Jeffrey Bilhuber, an interior designer who owns the New York Citybased Bilhuber and Associates and has written four books on interior design.

Tastemakers for this year’s event are Jeff Dungan Architects, Grant Trick and Beth Webb

See Gardens, page 31

30 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

antiques at the gardens

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Birmingham Bound

Photo special to the Journal

By Donna Cornelius

Designer Jeffrey Bilhuber is Making His First Visit to the Magic City fbcalparadeofhomesad.pdf

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When Jeffrey Bilhuber visits Birmingham for the first time next month, he’ll be packing some preconceived notions about the city – all of them positive.

The nationally known interior designer will be in town for this year’s Antiques at The Gardens as one of the Red Diamond Lecture Series’ featured speakers.

“I am so looking forward to my trip,” he said. “I’ve never been to Birmingham, but now it seems as if I have thousands of friends who have lived there. Richard Keith Langham, who is a great friend of mine and whom I’ve known in the design industry for about 30 years, is from Brewton.”

Bilhuber said he has “such a fondness” for his many friends from the South.

“I have always thought Southerners represent a great sense of American history and continuity,” said the designer, who owns New York City-based Bilhuber and Associates. “They have a kind of joy in everything that surrounds them. They have memories they can call up that are profoundly important and are a key to a sort of allure that I find attractive.”

Bilhuber’s talk at Antiques at The Garden will be at 11 a.m. on Oct. 7. He said he plans to feature a dozen of his current projects, some of which are in his fourth and newest book, “Jeffrey Bilhuber: American Master.” He’s also the author of “Jeffrey Bilhuber’s Design Basics,” “Defining Luxury: The Qualities of Life at Home” and “The Way Home: Reflections of American Beauty.”

“I’m one of the few interior designers today who has four books in the market now,” Bilhuber 1 6/5/16 8:40 PM said. “I write a book about every three years, and they always launch at No. 1 in their market.”

The designer said he’ll tell his Birmingham

audience “what is on my mind now and how my perspective on what’s important has evolved.”

“We’ll also talk about what I’m looking forward to in the next year,” he said.

Bilhuber will take questions from those who attend his lecture.

“People always want to know how to get started with design projects,” he said. “It’s a terrifying thought. People say, how can I choose a dining room table if I don’t know what the chairs will look like, and how can I choose the chairs until I have a sideboard?

“But once you make that first decision, the next one is easier. You’re building confidence and clarity. You eliminate half of the options once you make the first decision.”

Bilhuber grew up in New York on the North Shore of Long Island “I traveled a lot with my family, including my three brothers,” he said. “We had moved five times by the time I was 14. I think that had a lot to do with my sense of place.”

In an interview with New York Social Diary a few years ago, Bilhuber talked about his first – and funny – experience in interior design. He said that when he was a child, his mother asked him to choose the colors for his room. He picked “mustard, guacamole and Snickers bar brown,” he said in the interview.

“They were hideous color combinations, but I’d been asked a question no one had ever asked me: Tell me something about what it is you love,” he said. “It empowered me, and I’m still proud of what I put together then.”

Despite that experience, Bilhuber’s first career was in hotel management. Working in that field showed him that creativity and business could go “hand in glove,” he said.

“When you think about a hotel, you think about visual beauty in the rooms, the lobby, the

restaurant,” he said. “But you have to back it up with service, quality and good business advice.

The hotel industry was the best trigger, the best stage for me. After four years in hotel management, I decided to get into design.”

Since changing careers, Bilhuber has built a client list that includes celebrities such as Mariska Hargitay and Peter Hermann as well as Vogue, 70 Park Avenue Hotel, City Club Hotel, the Ariel Sands Resort for Michael Douglas, and Condé Nast Publications. Hargitay, the star of NBC’s “Law and Order: SVU,” wrote the foreword for Bilhuber’s newest book.

“All projects for me are opportunities and not obstacles,” he said. “To find the personality of the owner is a rare opportunity. Seldom does someone scare me off.”

For Bilhuber, a project’s first step isn’t drawing up plans but drawing out his clients.

“We ask a client to trust us, to understand that we’re here to help them make enlightened decisions,” he said. “Then they begin to open up. We ask them to go into our vast resource library and pull out things they like, such as fabric or tile. We build on that. Their choices may not end up in the final project, but they give us subtle, telltale hints.”

Most of the time, this process works well, Bilhuber said.

‘But I had a client who just couldn’t articulate what they wanted,” he said. “Finally, they blurted out ‘red!’ That told me they were confident by nature. That was the trigger.”

Tickets to the Red Diamond Lecture Series featuring Jeffrey Bilhuber are $40. The lecture is at 11 a.m. on Oct. 7 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A book signing follows at noon. For tickets to the lecture and to other Antiques at The Gardens events, visit bbgardens.org. ❖

antiques at the gardens

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

gardens, From page 29

Interiors; Cantley and Company; Margaret Kirkland Interiors; Pam Evans Interiors; Patina; and TMD Landscape Designs.

Dealers include Antique Cupboard, Barometer Fair, Caroline Faison Antiques, DR Grissom Estate and Fine Jewelry, Edwin C. Skinner Antiques, Embellish Antiques, Gallery 1930, George Getlik Fine Art, Hard to Find Goods, J&M Antiques, Lotz’s Antiques, Paige Albright Orientals, Pennoyer Newman Distinctive Garden Planters, Somerset Antiques, Southern Living, Thomas M. Fortner Antiques, Thompson House Antiques and Whitehall Antiques.

Proceeds from Antiques at The Gardens support educational programs at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Since 2006, the event has raised more than $3 million for The Gardens.

To buy tickets, visit bbgardens. org/antiques or call 414-3950.

Antiques at The Gardens Schedule Thursday, Oct. 6

9:30-11:30 a.m. – Tastebuds featuring Suzanne Pollack, author and founder of the Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits. Tickets are $25.

The Pantry will provide lunch. This event is limited to 40 people under age 40.

7-11 p.m. – Gala in The Gardens.

Tickets are $175 and include a black tie preview of the show, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music by To The 9’s and show readmission.

Friday, Oct. 7

10 a.m.-7 p.m. – Public show is open. Tickets are $15.

11 a.m. – Red Diamond Lecture Series featuring interior designer Jeffrey Bilhuber. Tickets are $40. A book signing follows at noon.

1 p.m. – Red Diamond Lecture Series featuring floral designer Michael Grim. Tickets are $30.

3 p.m. – Floral workshop with Michael Grim. Tickets are $150. The workshop is limited to 20 people.

5-7 p.m. – After Hours at The Gardens. This event is included in the general admission ticket price.

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 31

a Family Friendly Home with Personality, a presentation by Gen and Ben Sohr of Pencil and Paper Co. This event is included in the general admission ticket price.

3 p.m. – Taste in Spades: Presentation by Better Homes and Gardens East Coast Editor Eddie Ross. This event is included in the general admission ticket price.

Sunday, Oct. 9

11 a.m.-4 p.m. – Public show is open. Tickets are $15. ❖

Saturday, Oct. 8

10 a.m.-5 p.m. – Public show is open. Tickets are $15.

9 a.m.-noon – Intro to Calligraphy

by Holly Hollon. Tickets are $125.

This event is limited to 20 people.

10 a.m. – Taste in Spades: Shop the Show with Eddie Ross, Better Homes and Gardens East Coast editor.

Tickets are $75 and include a copy of his book, “Modern Mix.” This event is limited to 15 people.

Noon – Taste in Spades: A design panel/panel discussion featuring Better Homes and Gardens East Coast Editor Eddie Ross, interior designer Mark Sikes, and Gen and Ben Sohr from Pencil & Paper Company.

Karen Carroll of Flower magazine is the moderator. Tickets are $35 and include lunch and show admission.

2 p.m. – Taste in Spades: Creating

Antique Map Prints

Arceneaux Gallery 802-5800 • Tues. - Sat. 10-5 SoHo Square Homewood

Offering fine outdoor furniture, accessories and unique lifestyle products including:

Brown Jordan • Gloster • Lloyd Flanders • Summer Classics • Winston

32 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

home

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

roman brantley art & antiques

2790 BM Montgomery Street • 205.460.1224

Karen and Harold Stephens, above, have lived in their Vestavia Hills home since 1993. Being one of six siblings, Harold’s normal reunions can mean 100 or so people at the house, filling the back yard and spilling onto an adjoining patio on the side of the house.

A Garden of Memories

Vestavia Hills Home Lures the Family Outdoors

To: From:

Linda

By Emily Williams Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 When Harold and Karen Stephens Date: September moved into their Vestavia Hills home This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the September 22, for a beauin 1993, Karen had a vision 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. tiful garden and Harold wanted to build a pool.

the years, the once lackluster please make sure all information is correct,Over including space has been transformed into a famaddress and phone number! ily gathering place. Harold said that

for many years, Karen took complete please initial and fax back within 24 hours.charge of the gardening and spent much of her free time planting and If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Ask About Our Special Savings Event tending to a variety of flowers and your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. foliage.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

“In the past, Karen would maintain the plants year-round. She would spend 1831 29th Ave. S., Homewood • 871-9880 • Kathy Owens, CKD, President hours out there,” Harold said, noting that the fan palms that Karen planted years ago are still thriving.

Though her health doesn’t allow her to take charge of the landscaping any longer, Harold said that Karen is still the authority on what stays and what goes.

“She points at what she wants and we make it happen,” Harold said. For the grunt work, the Stephens rely on professional help these days from their neighbor John Richter of the Richter Landscape Company.

Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc.

Furnishings for Your Good Taste at

Antiques and Accessories 2700 19th Place South Homewood 871-9779 Tue.-Fri. 10:30-5:30 & Sat. 11:00-4:30

In the past, the garden has won a Vestavia Hills beautification award.

It’s an official commendation of a job well done, according to Harold, but the favorite memories the garden has given him are those spent with family.

Outdoor living has become increasingly trendy, and Harold said he’s glad he was ahead of the curve.

“We have four children and we’ve hosted many of their wedding parties and birthdays here,” Harold said. “I’m so fortunate that all of my children live within about 10 minutes of our home.

They’re always dropping by to spend time with their mother and it means the world to us.”

A regular visit from the kids now comes with grandchildren, a pack of them spanning from 10 years to 2 months old. Harold said he loves to watch the kids romp in the grass and swim in the pool, and Karen is always keeping an eye out for flower picking.

“We cook out a lot back there,” Harold said. “We have a surround sound system installed so we can play music.”

The party atmosphere, according to Harold, is perfect for Stephens family reunions. Being one of six siblings,

Harold’s normal reunions can mean 100 or so people at the house, filling the back yard and spilling onto an adjoining patio on the side of the house.

“We have truly enjoyed this space,” Harold said. “It’s all because of Karen.

I do it for her because she was the one behind all of this from the beginning and it has been a real blessing sharing it with her.” ❖

Holiday Home Tours Announce Details IPC Tour Includes Award-Winning Home Independent Presbyterian Church’s 67th annual Holiday House tour is set for Dec. 10 and 11, featuring four homes spanning the Birmingham, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills communities.

Homes featured on the tour include Mr. and Mrs. David Hillegas at 4445 Clairmont Ave., Mr. and Mrs. Robert Spotswood at 2749 Abingdon Road, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Vogtle at 3647 Abingdon Road, and Mr. James F. Carter at 3731 Montrose Road.

Carter’s home in Mountain Brook was featured on the April 2016 cover of the magazine Veranda. In 2015, the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art awarded Carter, an architect, a Philip Shutze Award for the Southeast region in the category of 4,000- to 10,000-square-foot residential single-family homes.

The church as well as each of the featured homes will be decorated for the holidays.

This year’s event has been organized under the leadership of tour chair Ann Walthall and will benefit the church’s women’s and children’s ministries.

Tickets for the event are $30 and will go on sale beginning Nov. 20.

For more information, visit ipc-usa. org.

Legacy League to Host Christmas Home Tour The Legacy League of Samford University will host its sixth annual Christmas home tour and holiday gift market Dec. 8 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m.

The tour will include five homes in the Birmingham area, as well as the Samford President’s Home in Vestavia Hills, which will feature holiday hors d’oeuvres and a gift market.

Online ticket sales will be available Nov. 1 with proceeds benefiting the Legacy League’s scholarships, which are annually granted to university students with significant financial needs. ❖

roots,

From page 29

the concrete.

Event organizers “wanted this year to have a Southern garden feel, so I’ll have boxwoods, flowers, lamb’s ears and ferns,” Dorlon said.

While his company does some commercial design, he most enjoys residential work, he said. One project that’s gotten a lot of press, including being featured in Southern Living, is in Crestline.

“The owners told me they wanted their house to stand out from others on the block,” he said. “They didn’t just want a row of shrubs along the front. It was a fun project.

“There’s also a house on Westbury Road in Mountain Brook that I’m so proud of. This was a design for a more contemporary, Prairie-style house. It was one of my favorite jobs because it pushed me out of my comfort zone. I love cottage-style houses and formal stuff, but with contemporary design,

you have to be real restrained and not use a lot of different materials.”

He and his wife, Kathryn, have two sons. Coleman, age 17, and John Wilson, 11, both attend Vestavia schools. The family also includes a Springer spaniel named Gracie.

Dorlon is an active member of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and has served on the vestry and preschool board there. He’s also been a member of the Episcopal Place Gumbo Gala committee and the Mitchell’s Place Junior Council.

Since most of his jobs come through word of mouth, clients know what to expect from his designs, Dorlon said.

“I ask them if there are plants they really love – or don’t love,” he said. “I ask them what colors they like. That gives you a start.

“But each job is different. I’m not always going to put a Vitex tree in every yard or do things the same way.”

For more information, visit tmdlandscapedesigns.com. ❖

Voted Best Antiques Store in Birmingham....Again! Thank you!

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ANTiquES MAll

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 33

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ands, h e k a h s e B efore w hands. we hold

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34 • Thursday, September 22, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

winning boot, I really had the easiest job of all.”

While kicking the winning field goal on the game’s final play might be the dream of many placekickers, Dillard looked at his big moment from a different perspective.

“For me, it’s really all about winning the game,” he explained. “Any way we do it is fine with me. If it takes a field goal at the end, I’m more than happy to do that job.”

The win raised the Spartans record to 4-1 overall, 2-1 in Class 7A Region Three play. Dillard said that the victory over Spain Park made a statement about the status of the Mountain Brook program, which suffered through two consecutive 3-7 records before 2016.

“We are absolutely back to where Mountain Brook football is supposed to be,” he said. “All of the people who make the predictions said we couldn’t beat Spain Park. This win was so big for all of us. We’re a big family. We work together and help each other. If we keep working hard, there’s no telling what we can do together.”

Dillard’s winning kick was his third field goal of the night. The first two were from 38 and 31 yards, respectively. He also kicked two field goals in the Spartans’ win over Thompson the previous week.

Even game-winning kicks are noth-

mid-term, From page 36

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

last five weeks will determine exactly how far it has come.

Spain Park – Last season’s Class 7A runner-ups claimed a close win against Gadsden and took impressive victories over Muscle Shoals and Vestavia Hills before falling hard to Hoover. Things got worse the next week, as Mountain Brook stunned the Jags at home. Tough region games in the season’s second half might make it difficult for Spain Park to avoid yet another loss.

Vestavia Hills – After a 9-3 record against one of the state’s toughest schedules last season, the Rebels had high expectations in 2016. They could still be met, though the path is rug-

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

From page 36

Mountain Brook players and coaches celebrate game-winning field goal by Mason Dillard to knock off Region Three rival Spain Park Friday night.

ing new for Dillard. His fourth quarter field goal gave his team a 17-16 triumph over Tuscaloosa County last season.

A tough day of practice during his junior high years led to Dillard’s interest in placekicking. “I was playing eighth-grade football and having

ged. Double digit losses to Spain Park and Oak Mountain have put an early damper on the schedule, but coach Buddy Anderson and his team traditionally are at their best when the chips are down. Vestavia’s win over Huffman last Friday was evidence of that trait.

The Rebels need to keep it going as Mountain Brook, Hoover and Shades Valley are just three of the teams that will put them to the test. On the bright side, few have mastered the Bucs over the past two decades as consistently as Anderson and his troops.

Homewood – For each of the past four consecutive seasons, the Patriots won exactly nine games. Homewood is capable of exceeding that total, despite the road being a little rockier than some expected. The Patriots needed a late comeback to defeat Pelham in the opener at Samford University, before losing

consecutively to Vestavia and Parker.

After edging Jackson-Olin, Homewood looked to be on track, but a decisive loss to Helena is a step backward. The good news for the Patriots is that there is still a lot of football to be played.

Oak Mountain – Many observers wrote off the Eagles after an 0-3 start that saw the defense yield an average of 34 points a game. To the team’s credit, it rallied with a 34-7 rout of a good Vestavia team. Oak Mountain piled up more than 400 yards of offense against the Rebels and had plenty of offense in the follow up win over Thompson.

So now the question is, which Oak Mountain team will show up for the rest of the season? It’s hard to say, although the Eagles will have the advantage of playing Hoover, Mountain Brook and Spain Park at home.

Briarwood – The Lions’ pre-season move to a smaller-school Class 5A was expected to be a plus for the program, and so far it has been. Briarwood looked good in a rout of Moody in its first region game and followed that with a head-turning 15-14 upset of Wenonah.

Under coach Fred Yancey, the Lions have qualified for the playoffs for 23 consecutive seasons. Don’t expect that streak to be snapped this year.

John Carroll Catholic – The Cavaliers are still in the middle of a massive rebuilding project under new coach Logan Colafrancesco. Wins are still difficult to achieve, although the good news is that John Carroll is still fighting to restore the school’s proud football tradition. The turnaround will come, even if it’s not this year. ❖ Hoover’s defensive unit has only yielded two touchdowns against in-state opponents.

to play linebacker and wide receiver,” he recalled. At linebacker I was going against (star Mountain Brook linebacker) Will Wetzler. Will just about

destroyed me. I decided then that playing linebacker wasn’t for me, and I started practicing kicking.”

Dillard’s winning kick against Spain Park climaxed an intense battle from start to finish. The Jaguars took the lead in the opening period when Thomas Jordan caught a 22-yard touchdown pass from Hunter Howell.

Mountain Brook rallied with two field goals by Dillard and a pair of touchdowns. The first came on quarterback Hamp Sisson’s 1-yard run. The second came on a 24-yard strike from Sission to Sims Herron, putting the Spartans at 20-7 midway through the third quarter.

Spain Park rallied to take the lead on the strength of two touchdown runs

by D’Arie Johnson. The go-ahead score came with only 3:33 remaining to play in the game.

A late Mountain Brook drive set the stage for Dillard’s heroics.

Sission completed 12 of 21 attempts for 101 yards while running for 110 yards on 19 carries. Herron caught three passes for 43 yards and Wilson Higgins caught four passes for 38 yards.

Larry Wooden led the Jaguars attack by rushing for 132 yards on 15 attempts.

“With a great holder and a great line, my job is easy,” Dillard reiterated.

Perhaps, but Spartan fans are convinced that Dillard’s long-ago decision not to play linebacker has worked out pretty well. ❖

Bill Ivey Tapped to Lead Basketball Program at Southeastern Bible College Bill Ivey has been named as the new athletic director/director of basketball operations of the Southeastern Bible College, charged with restarting the men’s and women’s Sabers teams at the school.

Bill Ivey is a 40-year veteran of Birmingham-area public and private education. He’s a former women’s basketball coach, the first director of Bartow Arena and founder of the Birmingham Basketball Academy and the Central Alabama Youth Foundation.

“The athletic department of Southeastern Bible College exists to give student/athletes and coaches an opportunity to glorify Christ through athletic competition,” Dr. Alex Granados, president of Southeastern Bible College, said in a news release.

“We want our student/athletes to excel in the classroom and their sport. We are building champions of character!”

Ivey taught at the high school and university level for more than 20 years. He coached high school basketball and track before becoming head women’s basketball coach at UAB in 1984. He went on to become Bartow’s director and then director of undergraduate admissions for UAB before leaving in 1992 to return to coaching and teaching at Homewood High School. He moved into the private sector and in 2009 formed his own company, TechKnowledge Birmingham.

Bill Ivey is a 40-year veteran of Birmingham-area public and private education. He’s a former women’s basketball coach, the first director of Bartow Arena and founder of the Birmingham Basketball Academy and the Central Alabama Youth Foundation.

In 2003, Bill formed the Central Alabama Youth Foundation, a nonprofit that uses its Underground Basketball program to help young male basketball players who’ve “slipped through the cracks” find their way into the socioeconomic mainstream. And in 2013, he founded the Birmingham Basketball Academy to teach young basketball players how to play.

“We are blessed to have Bill Ivey as our athletic director/director of basketball operations,” Granados said.

“He will help us build a winning program.” ❖

Thursday, September 22, 2016 • 35

sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Sophomore Course

Looking forward to the USGA Men’s State Team Championship next week at The Country Club of Birmingham are, from left, Eric Eshleman, director of golf, Country Club of Birmingham; Winston McCalley, president, Country Club of Birmingham; Jim Gorrie, tournament general chairman, USGA 2016 Men’s Team Championship; David Malone, vice chairman, 2016 USGA Men’s Team Championship; Lee McLemore, director of golf course operations, Country Club of Birmingham; and Andy Priest, executive director, Alabama Golf Association.

The Country Club of Birmingham Set to Host USGA Men’s State Team Championship The Country Club of Birmingham will host its second USGA championship in three years Sept. 28-30.

The USGA Men’s State Team Championship will include teams from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

In 2013, the club hosted the U.S. Mid-Amateur, at which Mike McCoy of Iowa won the title. The club has a rich history of supporting amateur golf by hosting numerous AGA championships and USGA qualifiers, including this year’s Alabama State Amateur Championship.

The Alabama team at this year’s tournament will be represented by Matt Johnson of Dothan, Woodie Eubanks of Trussville and Stephen Groover of Hoover. Groover,

ranked seventh in Alabama, was a member of the Auburn University men’s golf team from 2003 to 2007. This will be his third USGA event.

Veteran amateur Steve Hudson of Birmingham has been selected to serve as team captain for Alabama.

Hudson is a nationally ranked senior and a five-time AGA champion, including winning this year’s Alabama State Four-Ball Championship with Robert Nelson of Fairhope.

The winning team receives custody of the James R. Hand Trophy, and team members receive gold medals.

Admission is free. For more information, visit usga. org/mensteam. ❖

school spirit

Photo special to the Journal

more challenging and more enjoyable than running on a conventional indoor or outdoor track.

“There are so many things that you have to be noticing when you are running on a path in the woods,” he said. “All the courses are different. I typically focus on the hills or terrain and focus how to adjust my pace according to what’s ahead. The surroundings can really make a difference as far as your time goes.

I’ve seen cross-country times be altered by as much as two minutes because of the terrain.”

His favorite cross-country trek is at the Oakville Indian Mounds Park near Moulton – which is a good thing since that’s where the state meet is held.

As is the case with all runners who face the rugged 5K regimen, Stone knows that at some point his body is going to start hurting and a part of him is going to want to quit.

That’s where the mental aspect of running comes into play.

“The pain is going to come,” he said. “You must have a strong mindset that no matter how much it hurts, you are going to stick with it to the end. The important thing is to trust your training that your body will be able to handle it.”

Stone’s strategy in almost every race is the same. “I never burst out to the front in the beginning,” he explained. “I start in the pack and notice how the other runners are doing. When I see one that I think I can pass, I’ll speed up. The goal is to get by them one by one.”

While Stone may seem like a young man who was born to run, his passion began a little later. He was a first-grader at Shades Cahaba Elementary School when he got his first taste of running.

“The school had an annual run called the Owl Prowl,” Stone recalled.

“All the kids ran almost a mile through the town. I really got into it, and by the time I got to the (Homewood) Middle School, I wanted to run competitively.”

With two more seasons ahead of him, Stone would rather not think about his cross-country future after high school, but those who know him best can sense that more special times are ahead.

“It’s so early in his career, we’re still learning what Will may be capable of accomplishing,” Porter said.

Will Stone proved he was no ordinary freshman. His sophomore year is likely to be even better. ❖

Homewood Varsity Cheer

Members of the 2016-2017 Homewood High School varsity cheerleading squad are: Mary Lauren Burdeshaw, Mary Frances Buzhart, Hannah Crim, Mae Dowda, Ann Gartman (co-captain), Hannah Oliver (co-captain), Madison Pinke, Catherine Pittman, Mary Grace Schiller, Sally Smalley (captain), Sammey Steed, Lily Thompson, Aniyah Turner, Lucy Williams and Byerly Wilson.

Homewood’s marching band performs at halftime during a recent game.

School Spirit is a new feature where in every issue we’ll highlight different OTM cheerleading squads, band members, mascots and fans that make high school football so special. More photos at otmjsports.com.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

For many teenagers, being a freshman in high school means having to endure a year of getting lost in the hallways and generally being at the bottom of the totem pole in most situations.

For Will Stone, his first year at Homewood was much closer to being at the top of that pole. He probably even had an easier time finding his classrooms.

As a standout runner for the Patriot cross-country and track and field teams, Stone made an impression that would make even the most hardline senior stand and take notice. In the Alabama High School Athletic Association Cross Country Championships last year, he finished fourth overall, helping Homewood claim the Class 6A crown. Stone was the second-fastest freshman runner in any classification.

Stone also had an outstanding indoor and outdoor track season, highlighted by a fourth place finish in the 3,200-meter run at the state outdoor meet, where he broke the 10-minute barrier.

“I was just happy to help the team,” Stone said last week. “Although I have to say that running the 3,200 meters under 10 minutes was probably my biggest thrill. As far as this year goes, I hope I can help our team win another championship.”

Stone looks totally capable of fulfilling that goal. He opened the cross-country season with a 15:55 effort against national competition in a Memphis meet. Stone followed up in the prestigious Chickasaw Trails event, where he broke the 16-minute mark again and finished as the top Alabama runner.

Homewood cross-country coach Lars Porter said Stone’s greatest asset won’t show up on a stop watch.

“Will’s work ethic is tremendous,” Porter said. “He doesn’t get discouraged, and he’s not afraid to race anyone. Will has that competitive spirit that you can’t teach.”

Porter said Stone might be the ultimate self-starter.

“I’ve realized that my job is not to motivate Will,” the coach explained.

“Instead, my job is to give him the tools to be successful and get out of the way while he does it. Will is a joy to coach and I’m excited to see where his talent will take him.”

Stone believes that running a scenic cross-country route is in some ways

Photo special to the Journal

By Lee Davis

Journal photo by Maury Wald

Will Stone Leads Patriot Title Defense

Follow Over the Mountain fall sports at otmjsports.com OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Sports

3Will Stone leads Patriot title

defense Page 35 The Country Club of Birmingham set to host USGA tournament Page 35 lee davis

Mid-Term Exams

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Maybe Not Great, but Plenty of Good

good kick: Mountain Brook’s Hamp Greene holds as Mason Dillard kicks the game-winning field goal in the Spartan’s 23-21 win over Spain Park. Below right, Spartan quarterback Hamp Sission completed 12 of 21 attempts for 101 yards while running for 110 yards on 19 carries. The win raised the Spartans’ record to 4-1 overall, 2-1 in Class 7A Region Three play. More photos at otmjsports.com

‘I Knew It Was Good’ Dillard’s Winning Boot Gives Spartans Win Over Jags

By Lee Davis Mason Dillard admitted it: The senior placekicker was a little nervous as Mountain Brook lined up for what would prove to be the winning field goal against highly regarded Spain Park.

“Absolutely I was nervous,” Dillard said the next morning. “But I really shouldn’t have been. I had a

great snapper and a great holder and a great line. All I had to do was kick the football.”

Trailing 21-20, the Spartans had driven to the Jaguar 6-yard line with only six seconds remaining when Dillard’s number was called last Friday.

Alex Pankey’s snap was perfect.

So was Hamp Greene’s hold. That left it all up to Dillard and his experienced

right leg. Dillard’s kick launched the ball straight down the middle and above the crossbar as Mountain Brook earned a titanic 23-21 upset on their rival’s home field.

“The second that my foot hit the ball I knew it was good,” he said.

“It was the best kick I had all night.

The (offensive) line did a great job of keeping their defense away from me.

See winning boot, page 34

It seems incredible to believe, but we crossed the midpoint of the 2016 high school football regular season last week.

While none of the eight Over the Mountain teams have made it through mid-September with a perfect record, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that at least three have a chance for memorable years. Here is a quick look at where they stand.

Hoover – Alabama’s perennial powerhouse looked vulnerable at times last season, losing twice, to cross-town rival Spain Park and to Vestavia Hills. The Bucs have bounced back in 2016, despite an early loss to Allen, Texas. Hoover may not be the offensive juggernaut that many of its championship teams were, but the team looked like its old self in solid wins over Mountain Brook and Spain Park. Place kicker Barrett Picking is emerging as one of the Bucs’ most dangerous threats and the defensive unit has only yielded two touchdowns against instate opponents. There are challenges ahead, but Hoover is capable of going undefeated the rest of the year.

Mountain Brook – After consecutive 3-7 seasons, the Spartans may be the area’s most pleasant surprise with an impressive 4-1 start. Last Friday’s upset of Spain Park probably shows that Mountain Brook is a legitimate contender for a playoff spot in Class 7A’s toughest region. The bad news is that potential traps such as Vestavia Hills, Huffman and Oak Mountain await in the second half of the schedule. Mountain Brook is clearly improved over recent years, and the See mid-term, page 34

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This summer, we invite you to see the Town of Mt Laurel’s latest collaboration with Southern Living Magazine. What began with our recognition as a Southern Living Inspired Community has expanded to include the 2016 Southern Living Idea House. Mt Laurel is proud to have been chosen for this showcase event that also coincides with Southern Living’s 50th anniversary celebration.

The Southern Living Idea House at Mt Laurel is Now Open, Wednesday–Sunday. Tickets $15 at the door.

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