9.8.16

Otmj over the mountain journal u otmj.com

news

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Thursday, september 8, 2016

celebrating the

arts Theatre dance music art

Photo courtesy UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center

Fall preview begins on page 10

BANDALOOP kicks off uab’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center’s 20th season with a free concert on Fri., Sept. 23.

In an emergency, it’s about time.

GrandviewHealth.com The E.R. team will work to have you initially seen by a medical professional within 30 minutes of your arrival in the Emergency Room.

91174_GRAN_ERpldg_10_375x2_25c.indd 1

look forward 4/13/16 2:50 PM

2 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

Opinion/Contents

murphy’s law

in this issue

L Benefiting Baton Rouge people Page 6

among the stars social Page 16

go greek food Page 22

Winning looks schools Page 25

tasty tailgates food Page 23

About Town 3 people 6 news 8 life 10 social 16

weddings 21 food 22 schools 24 sports 28

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Closet Coloring

sticks branching out of the face, but ast week, I hurriedly stuck some this time in east-west fashion. Torsos watercolor paints in the mail won’t appear until much later, which to my granddaughter. The poor is interesting to me since belly buttons child had run out of purple. are already extremely popular.

Purple is her favorite color, and The kids will branch out to do picthat’s important. A favorite color is tures of the world around them. The the preschool version of the crucial sky will be up and the grass (always Alabama/Auburn choice. When I told green) will be scrubbed in across the my granddaughter that my favorite bottom of the page. There will be anicolor was blue, she gave me a knowing mals, too, who remarkably come with nod, as if to say, “Ah, so that’s who legs already attached. One of my favoryou are.” Grandpa Harold declared ite pictures is my grandson’s rendition for green. No telling where that leaves of the Christmas camels, complete with him. knobby little knees. And before they’ve I didn’t have the heart to tell her ever actually seen one, their worldview that it wasn’t always so. I used to be Sue Murphy will include rainbows that arch vividly a pink devotee. That’s the way life is. across the paper and make their Purples become pinks, pinks become grandmother smile. blues. Some people even veer off ... I’m hoping these I used to love to draw and paint, into green. colorers occasionally but I haven’t done a lot of it since I People change. The way they see the world changes. It’s evident in the sneak in a blank sheet of became a stodgy old grownup. I’ve noticed that some of my fellow lineup of preschool artwork I keep on the bulletin boards in the cousins’ paper and just let loose grownups have allowed themselves with circles and lines a box of crayons, but only as long as bedroom. We’re still waiting for our youngest guy to quit chewing on and squiggles. Not for they use them to fill in the shapes in a coloring book where the rainbows the crayons, but the other three have been busy interpreting life in crayon framing, not for the sake are already drawn in. of finishing, just for the Being a crossword puzzle fan, I and paint and glitter, lots of glitter.

They all started going ‘round and pure joy of going ‘round understand the satisfaction of comthings, bringing order out of ‘round with whatever implement and ‘round with a color pleting chaos, finding yourself at the end was at hand. Sometime after they of their own choosing. of the page with something you can turned two, they did portraits. Again, call “well done.” there was a circle (usually purple) It’s a “good girl” compromise, but all of a sudden we saw (they but I’m hoping these colorers occasionally sneak in a saw) eyes and a mouth. Occasionally, there was a nose, blank sheet of paper and just let loose with circles and but it didn’t seem to be required. lines and squiggles. Not for framing, not for the sake My older grandson, who is several years ahead of of finishing, just for the pure joy of going ‘round and the pack, has been there and done that and moved on. ‘round with a color of their own choosing. Maybe it will His faces have noses and ears and hair. Having watched be purple. And maybe they’ll see where they are, how his artwork develop, I know that, like pollywogs, the they’ve come to see the world, or maybe they’ll just rest of our purple faces will soon sprout legs, two sticks have fun. coming straight down out of the circle. I don’t know Closet coloring. Do it. I won’t tell. ❖ what triggers it, but later, there will be arms, again two

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 8, 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. 3

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.

over the Mountain Views We asked Birmingham Museum of Art employees :

What’s your favorite piece of art at BMA and why?

“‘The Sorceress’ by Georges Merle. Very detailed. Find a bunch of different things in it.”

Lillian Mears

“‘Lady Helen Vincent’

by John Singer Sargent.

Love his technique.

Portrait of a living person.”

“‘Do What Makes You Feel Satisfied’ by Mickalene Thomas. Very powerful, staring back at the male gaze with a strong female gaze.”

Matthew Stokes

Tenisha Hicks

“‘Bonjour, Julie’ by Joan Mitchell. I love the colors, emotions it invokes.”

Lindsey Hammel

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Auxiliary Efforts

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 3

About Town

By Sarah Kuper For most children, a drugstore birthday card is not much to get excited about unless it includes cash or a check.

But for a child living at Big Oak Ranch in Springville, receiving a birthday card could be the first time they’ve gotten a piece of mail with their name on it.

“These children are not bad kids or kids that have gotten into trouble.

They are just from really, really bad circumstances. They are now experiencing things we take for granted, like a birthday card, a new dress, or someone to tuck them in at night,” said Patsy Burks, president of The Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch.

The birthday card ministry is just one of the ways the auxiliary, established 10 years ago by Phyllis DePiano and Joann Bashinsky, ensures children living at the ranch know they are loved and special. To mark its anniversary, the auxiliary will have a bit of help delivering that message to the children – and to the community at large.

On Sept. 20, the auxiliary will present “An Evening with Amy Grant” at the Wright Center at Samford University. Grant will play a full concert and meet with sponsors before the event.

Children at the ranch will be able

to attend the concert courtesy of auxiliary donations. But Burks said she hopes the concert also brings attention to Big Oak Ranch and raises funds to further the ranch’s mission.

Along with organizing fundraisers, the auxiliary takes a hands-on

‘These children are not bad kids or kids that have gotten into trouble. They are just from really, really bad circumstances.’

Patsy Burks, president of The Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch

approach to serving the ranch.

“We don’t just go to a meeting and write a check. We commit to pray for the children and adults and we try to meet some of their needs,” Burks said.

Founded in 1974 by John Croyle, the ranch has three main components: the Girls Ranch in Springville, the Boys Ranch in Gadsden and Westbrook Christian School in Rainbow City. Each ranch has nine homes plus gyms, lakes, horses and livestock.

Children and teens at Big Oak Ranch live with house parents and as many as eight other kids of all ages

in two-story brick homes, where they are provided a family atmosphere and spiritual guidance.

Children go to school and participate in extracurricular activities, plus they are given responsibilities at home.

One way the auxiliary enriches the lives of children on the ranch is by supporting incentive programs for residents’ achievements and good behavior. Children receive points for accomplishments that they can then “cash in” at either The Boutique, for girls, or The Outfitters, for boys.

These two shops sell things such as clothes, shoes, electronics, makeup and sports equipment. They both are funded by the auxiliary.

Susan Taylor, a member of the auxiliary, said watching young girls shop at The Boutique for the first time is an emotional experience.

“I remember two girls who came into The Boutique and they were so excited, then another girl who was shy and just overcome because she had never experienced anything like it. It’s amazing to see the young girls blossom and grow as they get to know you and trust you.”

Longtime Supporter

The ranch’s connection to Grant goes beyond enthusiasm for contem-

Photo special to the Journal

Amy Grant Concert Will Benefit Big Oak Ranch

Singer Amy Grant poses with the horse she donated to the Big Oak Ranch, Yogi, and Maureen Willard in 1990.

porary Christian music.

Nearly 25 years ago, a 1989 graduate from Westbrook Christian School passed away from ovarian cancer at just 20 years old.

During her chemotherapy treatments, Maureen Willard found comfort in Grant’s music, and as part of the Magic Moments non-profit, Willard was able to go to Franklin, Tennessee, to meet her.

The two became friends, and Grant later donated a horse named Yogi to the ranch in honor of Willard.

Willard also wished Grant could perform a concert for the ranch, but she passed away before the event

could be arranged.

Now, the auxiliary is making Willard’s dream come true.

“It is such a testament to God’s faithfulness. God’s timing and our timing are not always the same.

Maureen didn’t get to see this happen, but now the children living at the ranch will get to go to the concert,” Taylor said.

For more information on the concert and Big Oak Ranch, visit bigoakauxiliary.com or bigoak.org.

Tickets for “An Evening with Amy Grant” can be bought at tickets. samford.edu or by calling 205-7262853. ❖

4 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

sept. 8 - 22

sale benefit the foundation’s community partnership and tuition assistance programs. For more information, visit thedancefoundation.org.

Thurs., Sept. 8 BIRMINGHAM

BIRMINGHAM

Caring for Caregivers Birmingham Botanical Gardens Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network hosts the seventh annual caregiving program from 9 a.m.-noon.

Family caregivers have the opportunity to interact with local legislators to peacefully advocate. Speakers include: Rep. April Weaver, Robert Cornelius and Laura Fiveash. Brunch and door prizes will be provided. Admission is free. Register by emailing mterry@ ucphuntsville.org or calling 256-8594900.

Sept. 15-16 VESTAVIA HILLS

Whale of a Sale Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church This kid’s consignment sale will take place in the Lighthouse gym Sept.

15 from 5-9 p.m. and Sept. 16 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with select items marked half-priced. For more information, visit whaleofasale.blogspot.com or email thewhaleofasale@gmail.com.

Photos special to the Journal

Glow for a Cure Highland Park Golf Course Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama will host its fifth annual night golf tournament from 4:30-10 p.m. benefiting ACA’s research program. The evening includes 18 holes of golf, range balls, dinner and awards. Registration is $800 per foursome, $200 for single players and $25 for spectators. To register, call Vance Holder at 871-7970 or visit alzca. org.

Sun., Sept. 18 BIRMINGHAM BIRMINGHAM

ZooGala 2016, Fri., Sept. 16 Birmingham Zoo The Zoo’s annual gala fundraiser will be held from will be from 6:30-11:30 p.m. in the Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. The event’s Asian theme is inspired by the soon-to-be new Asian Passage exhibit. Dinner and dessert will be provided by by Kathy G & Company. The evening will feature cocktails, music by A-Town A-List, dancing, a silent auction and more. This event is for guests 21 and older. Couple tickets are $650, individual tickets are $325 and non-refundable. Tickets for the after dinner party alone are $150. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit birminghamzoo.com. ❖

Sept. 8-10

Sept. 9 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sept.

10 from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers and consigners may shop early at the preview sale on Thurs., Sept. 8. For more information, visit trinitybirmingham. com.

VESTAVIA HILLS

No More Safety Pins Liberty Church Grace Klein Community will host an item swap Fri. from 5-9 p.m. and Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Items include maternity and children’s clothing, toys and more. Participation is $25 per 20 items. There is no limitation on how many items you can bring to trade. Bring 20 items, trade for 20 items. For more information, visit gracekleincommunity.com.

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Sweet Repeats Mountain Brook Community Church This consignment sale will take place from Sept. 9 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sept. 10 from 9 a.m.-noon. Strollers are not allowed from 9-11 a.m. on Sept. 9.

Most items will be half-priced Sept. 10.

Proceeds from the sale will benefit the

Fri., Sept. 9

church’s short-term mission trips. For more information, visit mbcc.us.

Sat., Sept. 10 SHELBY COUNTY

Birmingham’s Yard Sale of the Year Meadow Brook Meadow Brook Homeowners Association presents its seventh annual community yard sale. There will be more than 50 homes participating throughout the neighborhood from 7 a.m.-noon. For more about Meadow Brook, visit mbho. org.

HOMEWOOD

Superstar Cardio Dance Blast Homewood Public Library The Library will host a fitness program led by Alabama’s Zumba Jammer Megan Zema and Jenn Hall, fitness presenter and former Beyonce dancer. The free program will be held in the large auditorium from 6:307:30 p.m. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

HOMEWOOD

Lil’ Lambs Fall Sale Trinity United Methodist Church This consignment sale will feature gently worn clothes, toys and furniture

HOOVER

Sebastian’s RunWalk for a Cure Veterans Park Children’s of Alabama presents a 5k walk and run to benefit the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the 5k begins at 8:30 a.m. The one-mile fun run begins at 10 a.m. Participants are encouraged to wear camo. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under. For more information, visit sebastiansrunwalk.org.

HOMEWOOD

Monkey C Monkey 5k and Fun Run Homewood Park Camp Smile-A-Mile’s junior board will host a 5k race at 8 a.m. followed by a one-mile fun run for the kids and festivities in the park. For more information, contact Katie Langley at katie.langley@campsam.org or visit campsam.org.

BIRMINHGHAM

Photo special to the Journal

Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale Asbury United Methodist Church The sale will kick off Fri. from 8 a.m.6 p.m. and Sat. from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Items include children’s clothes, toys, books shoes baby furniture and more.

Proceeds benefit the church’s children and youth programs and various mission groups. For more information, visit asburyonline.org.

BIRMINGHAM

Noojin and White Run for the Cause, Sat., Sept. 10 Downtown Birmingham The 29th annual 5k and one-mile fun run will kick-off at 8 a.m. on the 200 block of Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. The event honors the late Birmingham attorneys Ronnie Noojin and Jere White who were avid supporters of the YMCA. Activities include music, food trucks, kids activities and more with proceeds benefitting the YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s annual campaign.

Registration is $30 for the 5k and an additional $5 for the fun run. For more information, visit ymcabham.org/run-for-the-cause or call 801-7224. ❖

Trucks by the Tracks Railroad Park Thirty food trucks and carts will be serving a variety of cuisines from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. while guests enjoy band performances and lawn games. Tickets are $5 in advance or $7 at the gate.

VIP tickets are $35 in advance or $45 at the gate. For more information, visit railroadpark.org.

Mountain Brook

Sun., Sept. 11

Sept. 9-10 HOOVER

Above, this year’s ZooGala chairs are, from left, Dr. William R. Foster, Lindsey Lacey, Greg King and Jennifer Ard. Honorary chairs for this year’s gala are Dixon Brooke Jr., left, and his wife Dell.

Evensong Independent Presbyterian Chruch Drawing on traditions from the fourth century, the church will hold an evening prayer service from 4-5 p.m.

The program includes an organ recital, featuring Dr. James Dorroh of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. A Service of Remembrance will be sung by the IPC Choir Trebles. For more information, visit ipc-usa.org.

HOMEWOOD

Bargain Costume Closet The Dance Foundation The annual costume sale will kick-off from 2-4 p.m. and continues through the month. Items include dance wear, recital and Halloween costumes, dance shoes and accessories. Proceeds from the

Taste of Mountain Brook Crestline Village The second annual food-tasting event will feature samples of offerings from local restaurants from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at 101 Hoyt Lane. Entertainment will be provided by Mountain Brook High School cheerleaders, Dorians, Jazz band, UNA Voice and the Chamber Choir. Tickets are $15 and benefits All In Mountain Brook, a communitybased anti-drug organization. For more information, visit tasteofmountainbrook. com.

Sept. 22

Birmingham

New Works Festival UAB - Hulsey Recital Hall The Birmingham Art Music Alliance will present its third annual festival featuring new works by Birminghamarea composers beginning at 7:30 p.m.

For ticket information, call 934-8056.

Save The date Sat., Sept. 24 hoover

Laura Crandall Brown Foundation Head Over Teal Town Hall at The Preserve Brookwood Baptist Health will host the seventh annual 5k and 10k from 8 a.m.-noon. The event is pet friendly and includes games, children’s inflatables, face painting, crafts, refreshments and more. Registration for the 5k and 10k is $35 before Sept. 10. For more information, visit thinkoflaura.org.

IRONDALE

Irondale Whistle Stop Festival Historic Downtown Irondale More than one hundred vendors

about town, continues on page 5

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 5

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Sept. 24-25

about town, from page 4

Photos special to the Journal

will be selling art, crafts and food. The main stage will be located on 1st Ave. S will start at 10 a.m. and conclude with fireworks at 9 p.m. The Historic Irondale Café will be open throughout the day.

A shuttle service will be available at the cafe in order to transport guests to and from the main stage of the festival. For more information, visit irondalewhistlestopfestival.com.

Lorraine Donald, Adopt-a-Golden Birmingham founder, speaks at 2015 Night of Golden Opportunity.

A Night of Golden Opportunities

HOOVER

Art in the Gardens Aldridge Gardens The organization will host a juried art show and sale Sat. from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A $5 admission fee for guests 16 and older will benefit the arts at Aldridge Gardens. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Sun., Sept 25 BIRMINGHAM

25th Annual Magic City Aids Walk Railroad Park Birmingham AIDS Outreach’s annual walk will begin at 4:30 p.m. with the race start time at 6:30 p.m. to allow a nighttime run experience. The event is family friendly and includes a guest emcee and musical performances. A vendor fair will be open from 4:30-6:30 pm. ❖

“Stacy Flippen sold our house in one day.”

Adopt-a-Golden Birmingham Plans Sept. 15 Fundraiser

By Sarah Kuper The Night of Golden Opportunities benefit for Adopt-aGolden Birmingham will be Sept. 15 at Iron City Birmingham.

The event, now in its fifth year, is an opportunity for golden retriever lovers to gather and enjoy food and a silent and live auction while raising money and awareness for golden retriever rescue.

The volunteer-based nonprofit works to rescue golden retrievers from bad situations. It is part of a larger network of breed-specific rescue nonprofits around the country and world.

Lorraine Donald is the founder and president of Adopt-a-Golden Birmingham. She said volunteers will take in the dogs no matter what.

“We never refuse a golden – ever.

Even if they are older or require a lot of work. We get some that are in pretty bad shape.”

Veterinary professionals and dog trainers administer medical treatment, including vaccines, and evaluate the dog’s temperament.

“We do whatever it takes – orthopedic surgery, send them to a behaviorist. Our goal is to get them back

to medical and emotional fitness,” Donald said.

Volunteers are committed to taking care of the retrievers until a proper home can be found.

A family wishing to adopt a golden retriever from the organization must go through a thorough screening process that includes phone interviews and a home evaluation.

“People may criticize us for being over the top with home checks but we are following breed-specific guidelines to make sure the dog goes to its perfect forever home,” Donald said.

Should a golden owner find he or she can no longer care for the pet, Donald hopes they won’t think twice about surrendering the dog to Adopta-Golden.

“Quite often people aren’t 100 percent honest with why they are surrendering the golden, but we can only guess,” she said. “We don’t judge at all because we want to care for that dog.”

Night of Golden Opportunities begins at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $125 and can be purchased online at adoptagoldenbirmingham.com or through the organization’s Facebook page. ❖

When Sarah and Justin Hefner weighed options between renovating their home or moving to a place with more space for their young boys, they turned to trusted friend and Realtor Stacy Flippen for professional advice. “Stacy knows everybody, and more importantly, she knows this market. Plus, she’s fun to work with,” says Sarah. “We can’t say enough nice things about her.” Justin says Stacy’s energy and enthusiasm paid off for them when she sold their home in one day. “We knew with Homewood’s popularity we may need to act quickly, but we had no idea things would move that fast. We’ re happy to recommend Stacy to anyone buying or selling a home.”

A Relationship Company 4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35243 • 205.969.8910 www.arcrealtyco.com Stacy Flippen • (205) 966-8406 • sflippen@arcrealtyco.com

Campus Life

UA’s CrossingPoints Gives Those with Intellectual Disabilities a College Experience

By Donna Cornelius Going to classes, living in dorm rooms and heading out with friends for late-night snacks are everyday parts of college life for many young adults. But for those with intellectual disabilities, these kinds of activities often aren’t the norm.

A new program at the University of Alabama is changing that.

CrossingPoints, a student transition program on the UA campus in Tuscaloosa, held its first Summer Bridge Program in June and July.

The eight-week session aims to give students with intellectual disabilities a well-rounded experience in college life.

Amy Williamson, CrossingPoints coordinator, said 11 students participated in the summer program. They attended classes, lived in a UA dorm and learned independent living skills.

“The idea behind the program is to pipeline students into higher education,” Williamson said.

The Summer Bridge Program is one of CrossingPoints’ two components and also is known as Tier 2.

CrossingPoints started the new program with the help of a $2.5 million federal grant, which it was awarded last year.

The Tier 1 program, which runs with the academic year, has been in place since 2001. It’s a collaboration between the university, Tuscaloosa City Schools and the Tuscaloosa County School System.

Tier 1 participants must be 18 to 21 years old. Through the program, they learn employment, independent living and social skills.

“These students are young adults with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities,” Williamson said.

Right now, Tier 1 is open only to students in the Tuscaloosa city and county school systems. But the

Summer Bridge Program doesn’t have that restriction.

“Our students this year came from all over Alabama, and we even had one from Ohio,” Williamson said.

Participants take some CrossingPoints-specific courses and also can select up to two UA courses.

The summer program students lived at Lakeside East, a UA dorm.

“The rooms there are set up as quad rooms, with four bedrooms,” Williamson said. “The students shared a bathroom, kitchen and living room.”

She said a graduate student studying special education is on site as a resident adviser. Other college students work as mentors.

“The mentors’ role was more as friends and partners,” Williamson said. “They weren’t there to teach our students but to come in and cook with them, ride the bus with them and help them get to know the campus.”

Summer Bridge Program participants must be at least 18 years old and finished with high school. While the Tier 1 program is free, there’s a cost for Tier 2 that pays for student housing, Williamson said.

One of the young adults at this summer’s session plans to enroll at Shelton State Community College in Tuscaloosa, and another is set to enter Kent State University’s certified transition program, Williamson said.

While getting to attend college classes is an important part of the program, the students also got to experience the lighter side of college life.

“One night, the students and mentors called 348-RIDE to get a bus and went to have midnight sushi at Surin,” Williamson said.

For more information, visit www. crossingpoints.ua.edu. An application for the Summer Bridge Program will be posted on the site in October.

Interviews for prospective students will be held in January and February.

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

A father speaks Trotter Cobb

One of the participants in CrossingPoints’ first Summer Bridge Program was Trotter “Trot” Cobb, a 20-year-old Mountain Brook resident. His father shared the story of his son’s experiences there -- and his own feelings of gratitude for the program and pride in his son.

From left Anne, Trotter and Trot Cobb.

Exceptional Training, Simple Pleasures How could spaghetti make me the

happiest dad in the world?

All it took was a few FaceTime minutes with my son.

You see, my son and namesake, Trotter, who my wife and I call Trot, is in the midst of an amazing program at the University of Alabama known as CrossingPoints. It’s for young adults, such as Trot, who have special needs and who are in their late teens and early 20s. The purpose is to give them the skills and guidance they need to begin functioning as semi-independent adults.

Trot didn’t know how to FaceTime before the program. Now he has learned. And gosh, does he FaceTime me – and I light up every time I see his incoming call.

“I cooked spaghetti for dinner last night and it was so yummmmmy!” he exclaimed in his exuberance, as I watched his wonderful face beaming through my iPhone. “I want to cook dinner for Mom when I get home,” he told me.

“She’ll love it,” I said.

“Will you help me?” he asked.

“You bet I will. I will be your assistant,” I promised.

“Thanks Dad!” he responded, as excited as can be.

Trot making spaghetti, his favorite food, is something I never could have imagined before the CrossingPoints program. Nor could I have imagined him going away for most of the summer, thriving and meeting new friends who, already, have brought him to a new level of happiness, confidence and maturity.

Like his suite-mate Bobby.

Bobby’s not his real name, I’ve changed it here to protect his privacy. But this kid, also special needs, has been a big boost for Trot and our family. He’s a little older than Trot and, you can sense, very protective of my son. He likes to tell us how well Trot is doing.

My wife, Anne, has become friends with his grandmother and they chat all the time. They were talking on the

Photo special to the Journal

6 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

phone the other day. She told Anne what Bobby said to her about Trot: “He’s my best friend, and he’s cool.”

The next time Anne and I talked to Trot, we told him what his suite-mate had said about him. “He’s my best friend,” answered Trot.

One of the things we’re trying to do as parents is to teach Trot to be more specific, so I followed that up with, “Now, who is your best friend?” – of course, knowing the answer. “Hold on… wait, wait,” Trot said, turning to his suitemate to ask him, “What’s your name?”

These moments remind us that within this young man’s body – Trot’s 20 now – resides the mind of a 7-year-old, limited by several special needs syndromes.

This is why helping to navigate a new path for our son is so challenging right now – and rewarding. Never did we imagine that he could go off by himself for nearly two months and function so well.

He’s got another suite-mate who I will call Allen. Allen is facing some tough special needs challenges. But he is a happy guy and has had a smile on his face whenever we have been with him. Sometimes he gets on FaceTime with Trot and starts talking to us. I can’t always understand what Allen is saying. It doesn’t matter; I can hear his enthusiasm. I love talking to him. He’s a happy fellow.

Other FaceTime exchanges with Trot have been as uplifting as our spaghetti conversation. “Guess what, Dad! We went swimming. Everybody clapped for

me. I climbed the ladder to the top of the water slide.”

And then there was our chat with Trot about him having gone bowling. He’s always loved bowling and has won a local Special Olympics gold medal. So bowling is something my wife and I have encouraged. His conversation from the CrossingPoints program, of course, was exactly what he tells us every time he goes bowling. He always gets two spares and a strike or two strikes and a spare. It never changes.

Each time he sounds as excited, as if he were telling us for the first time. We sound as excited as if we were hearing it for the first time.

One of the challenges of being the parent of a special needs son is that you don’t receive the same cues – and clues – from your child that other parents do.

Sometimes it’s as if Trot speaks to us in code, a code that can be challenging to decipher. Each time he’s FaceTimed us from the CrossingPoints program, I’ve asked myself these questions as our talks have concluded: Does he miss us? Does he want to come home? Would he actually be happier in a group setting?

What I do know is that the nearly two months he has been away have begun to ease my concern about whether Trot will be able to manage once Anne and I are no longer here.

Answers to these questions and others will come in the future.

For now, I’m looking forward to making spaghetti. ❖

For her first visit to the West Homewood Farmer’s Market, Weezie’s Candy Emporium owner Marcy Miller shared a little something extra.

Miller is partnering with 2017 Miss Homewood Teen USA Ireland “Grace” Hendrix, a senior at Evangel Christian School, on an Education Supply Drive for the Livingston Parish Public School system in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Because the school and many of the students’ homes and possessions recently were destroyed by flooding, Hendrix and Miller have coordinated a school supply drive with guidance from the school system’s superintendent and Miss Baton Rouge Teen USA. “When I was growing up in Greenville, Mississippi, about the spring before kindergarten, a tornado landed on our house and destroyed it,” Miller said. “So, I have an idea of what it’s like to lose absolutely everything just as these kids in Baton Rouge have.”

Children are also a passion of Miller’s and the reason she entered the candy business.

“That’s my love,” she said. “I love kids and I

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Miss Homewood Teen USA Partners With Local Candy Store for Supply Drive

From left: 2017 Miss Homewood Teen USA Ireland “Grace” Hendrix, Weezie’s Candy Emporium owner Marcy Miller and Tanya Hendrix at the West Homewood Farmers Market last week.

knew I wanted to do something in my life where I worked with kids and provided them with

happy memories and gifts.”

One of her favorite things about owning the

candy store in Edgewood is that the location is walkable for many kids and provides a safe and positive environment where kids can hang out.

Miller received a letter from the Livingston Parish superintendent that lists items the school needs most, which is a little bit of everything.

Among the items requested were school supplies, health and hygiene items and cleaning supplies.

“One thing that they really need is school uniforms,” Miller added. “These kids have lost everything and have little to wear in general let alone a uniform.” The Livingston schools’ uniform can be found at lpsb.org.

In addition to donations, Miller’s store is selling $1 Smarties candy bags, with all proceeds going to the school.

The drive originally was planned to conclude Sept. 4, but the school’s inability to store donations will most likely lead to an extension.

Miller expects the drive to continue for at least one week more, if not longer.

For more information on the drive, visit weeziescandy.com and follow the “candy” link on the homepage.

—Emily Williams

John Carroll Grad Completes Marine Academy Training Robert E. Burgess IV of Birmingham graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy on June 18.

While at the Academy, Burgess completed four years of academic, physical and military training. The program included a year at sea visiting 12 countries while aboard the M/V APL Agate, S/S Horizon Enterprise, U.S.S. Bulkeley, U.S.N.S Pecos and the U.S.N.S Carl Brashear.

Burgess earned a bachelors of science in logistics and marine transportation and a commission as an ensign for the U.S. Navy Reserve. He Robert E. Burgess IV also earned a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Officer license as a Third Mate, Unlimited Tonnage.

While at the Academy, he was a member of the Newman Club, served as secretary of the Kings Point Maritime Law and Business Society, served as the 3rd Company logistics officer and was a member of USMMA’s football team.

After graduating, Burgess is sailing as a Third Officer for Military Sealift Command and fulfilling his Navy Reserve commitment as a Strategic Sealift Officer.

Burgess is a 2012 graduate of John Carroll Catholic High School.

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 7

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Higginbotham Earns Eagle Scout Rank

Clay Higginbotham earned the rank of Eagle Scout on July 11.

He has been a member of Troop 63 at Canterbury United Methodist Church for more than 10 years.

For his Eagle project, Higginbotham built a chicken coop for Urban Ministries Community Gardens.

He is a senior at Clay Higginbotham Mountain Brook High School, an SGA representative, a member of the track team and a member of the rock band Apollo.

Higginbotham is the son of David and Kristi Higginbotham of Mountain Brook.

Local Lawyer Publishes First Installment in Mystery Trilogy Birmingham-area lawyer Dan Klasing released “The Klass,” the first book in his planned mystery/thriller trilogy, on Aug. 5.

The book follows a secret organization, called The Klass, composed of powerful Southerners who seek to take control of Southern states and secede from the federal government.

Klasing’s characters try to expose a political “machine” that is thought to exist on university campuses and

keep the group from obtaining a newly developed weapon.

“For decades, rumors, innuendo and various accounts of a secret society at the University of Alabama called ‘The Machine’ have been whispered about throughout the state,” Klasing said, in a released statement.

Klasing is a native of Birmingham and a graduate of Auburn University. He obtained his juris doctor at the University of Alabama School of Law. Klasing lives in Mountain Brook with his wife, Leslie, and his two daughters.

“The Klass” is available online through Amazon, Books-a-Million and Barnes and Noble.

Hoover’s Agsalud Completes Basic Training Cadet Jason Agsalud of Hoover completed his six-week cadet basic training at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point.

According to a press release, the program is utilized to prepare cadets for entry into the Corps of Cadets by teaching basic skill training that instills discipline, pride, cohesion, confidence and a high sense of duty. Areas of training include first aid, mountaineering, hand grenades, rifle marksmanship and nuclear/biological/chemical training.

Agsalud graduated from Hoover High School in May. He plans to graduate from West Point in 2020 before being commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Butch Agsalud of Hoover. ❖

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News

8 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Emotional, hot-button local issues toppled two Over the Mountain mayors during the recent municipal elections. A majority of voters in Hoover and Vestavia Hills came out to the polls and selected new mayors to guide their cities for the next four years.

Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey was bounced by challenger Frank Brocato in his reelection bid. Brocato, a retired Hoover fire marshal, received 52 percent of the vote to Ivey’s 35 percent and Steve McClinton’s 13 percent to avoid a runoff in the mayor’s race.

Ivey said he believes his defeat was part of an anti-incumbent attitude.

“Based on what we’re seeing around town, it’s kind of an incumbent issue more than issues because there have been several incumbents around the county lose tonight,” he said after the election.

However, City Council members John Lyda and Gene Smith were reelected to the council. And many residents throughout the city and on the “Hoover Vote” Facebook page made education funding a major priority in this race.

Ivey, as leader of the city, had been criticized for not doing enough for the school system, which is facing financial challenges. Although the school system has $90 million in reserves, it has nearly $175 million debt and needs to find additional

funds, school officials have said.

Brocato made properly funding city schools a key issue in his campaign, saying he would work to establish a strong relationship with the city board of education and “examine how to help financially without raising taxes.”

In Vestavia Hills, retired FBI agent Ashley Curry received 57 percent of the vote to Mayor Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza’s 43 percent.

The incumbent mayor conceded that the controversy surrounding the school board’s decision to change the Vestavia Hills rebel mascot and concerns about transparency in city government likely contributed to his defeat. The city has been as transparent as it could be, he said, for example putting the full agenda packet on the city’s website. But issues of transparency – real or perceived – are always raised around election, the mayor said.

“There really were several issues that were out there,” Zaragoza said.

“Transparency seemed to be one.

The rebel man seemed to be another one.”

Based on the recommendation of the city school superintendent, the Vestavia Hills school board in July 2015 voted to ditch the Southern colonel mascot, saying it was racially insensitive and reflected negatively on Vestavia Hills.

Although the City Council didn’t vote on the issue, many residents felt the mayor and council members could have taken a more vocal stand

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Inspector Richard Linn rings a bell at last year’s Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony in Hoover.

u hoover sweet victory: Homewood Mayor Scott McBrayer, above, celebrates with a supporter at New York Pizza after winning his third term as mayor. In Hoover, Frank Brocato, below left, a retired Hoover fire marshal, received 52 percent of the vote to defeat incumbent Gary Ivey. Below right, in Vestavia Hills, retired FBI agent Ashley Curry received 57 percent of the vote to oust Mayor Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza.

against the board’s decision and its swift removal of those images from the school.

Zaragoza said he has no regrets about his time as mayor.

“I don’t hold my head down,” he said. “I think we’ve looked at all information we had in hand and made our decisions accordingly.”

In Homewood, Mayor Scott McBrayer won his bid for a third term handily, taking nearly 88 percent of the vote in his race against Ward 1 Place 1 Councilman Michael Hallman.

Council Races

Only two council races in Homewood, Hoover, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills made it to runoffs, but only one of those will be on the ballot. Vestavia Hills Councilman Steve Ammons faced a runoff against Paul Head for the Place 3 seat, but Ammons – who was 215 votes behind Head – has dropped out of the race. Ammons said he doesn’t want to cost the city more money just to hold one council race.

“Voters in Vestavia Hills spoke loudly that a change was desired.

While I am proud and will continue to be proud of the work we accomplished moving the city forward the last several years, I will not put myself above service to our city,” Ammons said in a prepared statement.

“I cannot, in good conscience, allow my desire to continue serving Vestavia Hills cost the taxpayers

roughly $65,000 to hold one run-off election. That is money the city and state desperately need and could fund one more police officer or school room teacher. This decision is my personal way of putting service above self one more time.”

In the Hoover Place 1 council race, Curt Posey and Trey Lott will face off in the Oct. 4 runoff.

Candidates who won their race Aug. 23 will take office in November.

Here are the winners of the other Homewood, Hoover, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills council races: In Homewood, Council President: Bruce Limbaugh (unopposed incumbent); Ward 1 Place 1: Andy Gwaltney; Ward 1 Place 2: Britt Thames (incumbent); Ward 2 Place 1: Mike Higginbotham (unopposed); Ward 2 Place 2: Andrew Wolverton; Ward 3 Place 1: Patrick McClusky (unopposed incumbent); Ward 3 Place 2: Walter Jones (incumbent); Ward 4 Place 1: Barry Smith (incumbent); Ward 5 Place 1: Jennifer Andress; Ward 5 Place 2: Peter Wright (incumbent).

In Hoover, Place 2: Gene Smith (incumbent); Place 3: John Lyda (incumbent); Place 4 Mike Shaw; Place 5: Derrick Murphy; Place 6: Casey Middlebrooks; Place 7: John Greene (incumbent).

In Mountain Brook, Place 2: Phillip Black.

In Vestavia Hills, Place 1: Dennis “Rusty” Weaver; Place 2: Kimberly Cook; Place 4: George Pierce (incumbent). ❖

Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony Monday

Hoover is once again holding its Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony for local officials and community members to gather and honor the first responders who served during the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

The annual event this year will be held Sept. 12 at 8:30 a.m. at Fire Station No. 2.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Rob Gwin, who serves the Hoover Fire Department as both a firefighter and paramedic. Gwin recently returned from deployment in the Persian Gulf.

Performing the national anthem along with other patriotic songs will be the Simmons Middle School Choir.

A reception will be held following the ceremony.

In addition to Station No. 2’s formal event, all fire stations will hold short ceremonies on Sept. 11 beginning at 8:50 a.m. by their flagpoles.

For more information, visit hooveral. org. ❖

u Vestavia Hills

Community Prepares to Lend a Helping Hand Community volunteers will gather and serve fellow community members Sept.

10 for the annual Helping Hands in the Hills Community Service Day. The event is in its second year, co-hosted by the city of Vestavia Hills and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, and gives residents a chance to receive assistance or lend a helping hand.

Last year, more than 300 people lent a helping hand throughout the area, and chamber officials said they expect an even larger crowd this year.

The festivities will kick off with an 8:30 a.m. breakfast at the Wald Park Pool Pavilion before volunteers disperse and spend three hours working on their community projects. The day of service will conclude with a celebratory lunch. ❖

Photo special to the Journal

By William C. Singleton III

Journal photo by William C. Singleton III

School-Related Issues Cited for Voters’ Ousting Two OTM Mayors

Journal file photo

u Over the Mountain

Last year, more than 300 people lent a helping hand throughout the area.

Bronze Mettle u Over the Mountain

By Lee Davis A vice president of the United States, a rocket scientist, a Supreme Court justice and a world-renowned botanist are all hanging out at Samford University.

So are dozens of other prominent men with Alabama connections who contributed to the state, the nation and the world. They are members of the Alabama Men’s Hall of Fame, where they are honored with a special bronze plaque at the Harwell Goodwin Davis Library on the Samford campus.

Jeremiah Denton, a hero of the Vietnam War and a former United States senator, will be inducted into the hall during a luncheon in his honor Sept. 20. Denton, who died in 2014, was a native of Mobile.

The present day hall was formed in 1987 by act of the state Legislature. A predecessor organization, the Alabama Hall of Fame, existed between 1951 and 1965 and inducted a number of prominent men from the state. The inductees were adopted by the new Hall of Fame after its creation.

“This is a great way for the people of Alabama to realize how many of their fellow Alabamians have made positive contributions to our world,” said Frank McDaniel, a former legislator who is the chairman of the Hall of Fame. “We have even put together lesson plans that can be taught in the classroom on our website for most of the members to help teach school children about their contributions.”

Inductees do not have to be born in Alabama, but they must have a strong connection to the state. For example, rocket scientist Werner Von Braun was a native of Germany, but he helped make Huntsville one of the most important cities in America’s race to the moon in the 1960s.

“People will look at the plaques at Samford and say, ‘I had no idea that

Photo special to the Journal

Jeremiah Denton

Men’s Hall of Fame at Samford Honors Great Alabamians

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 9

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

this person or that person had a connection with Alabama,’” McDaniel said. “We’ve had leaders in politics, business, agriculture, science and just about every category you can imagine.”

Many Alabamians do not realize that the state has produced a vice president. Although a native of North Carolina, William Rufus King came to Alabama before statehood was granted in 1819. He founded the city of Selma and was elected to represent Alabama in the U.S. Senate. In 1852, King was chosen as the Democratic Party’s nominee for vice president on the ticket with presidential candidate Franklin Pierce. Pierce and King won the election. King died in office the next year.

He is buried in Selma.

Other well-known members of the Hall of Fame include former Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black, U.S. Sen. Lister Hill and Oscar W. Underwood, scientist George Washington Carver, educator Booker T. Washington, civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., medical giants Dr. John Webster Kirklin and Lloyd Noland, and captains of industry John Harbert, John Eagan, and Emory Cunningham, just to name a few.

McDaniel said the Hall of Fame welcomes participation from the public in the nominating process. Nominees must have been deceased for at least two years to be eligible for consideration, and no Hall of Fame class will have more than three members in a particular year.

A deadline for submitting nominations is generally set in early March and is announced through the media and on the Hall of Fame website.

Nominations are usually reviewed by a selection committee designated

by Alabama Men’s Hall of Fame board

members. The committee’s recommendations, along with the list of all nominations, are submitted to the full Board in April for a final vote. The formal induction ceremony is held each year in September in Birmingham.

Denton is best known for his service as a pilot during a bombing mission over North Vietnam in 1965. He was shot down, captured and held in the notorious North Vietnamese prison camp known as the Hanoi Hilton.

Denton spent four of his eight years of captivity in solitary confinement

before being released after America’s involvement in the war ended in 1973.

Denton served in the U.S. Senate from 1981-87.

“Admiral Denton made incredible sacrifices for our nation and is a true hero in every sense of the word,” McDaniel said. “He is a very deserving member of the Hall of Fame.”

The public is invited to the induction luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at The Club in Birmingham. To reserve a seat at the luncheon, call 968-0967 by Sept.

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life

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

celebrating the arts P Fall preview

Come One, Come All

By Sarah Kuper

World-renowned Illusionist Kevin Spencer is scheduled to perform on Oct. 1.

Photos courtesy UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center

As UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center enters its third decade, its leadership’s mission is much the same as it always was: to entertain and educate the community and the UAB campus.

But a closer look reveals an arts center that is evolving with the times, physically, technologically and programmatically.

In less than a year, the ASC has instituted a new branding campaign, a new website and a new ticketing system.

Much of the center has new, custom-milled carpeting, although the pattern is the same as the original. A new grand drape along with lighting improvements in the Jemison Concert Hall will allow for an even broader range of ‘We have a performances. Plus, the commitment new Meyer sound system puts the venue in an elite to you to bring class of concert halls. you things you New signage and haven’t seen a double-sided digital marquee are in the works before and to to be installed before the introduce new season begins. audiences to it.’

The center’s execuAnna Thompson tive director of 10 months, Anna Thompson, said the improvements are being made not because the building had fallen in disrepair, but because leadership wanted to keep the center as current as possible.

“We are 20 years old – we have stewarded the building very well but there is only so much you can do without updating after 20 years.”

But perhaps most notable and indicative of the center’s direction for the future is a look at this season’s event line up.

With at least 29 performances making up the 20th season, Thompson said she challenges anyone to look at the program and not find something appealing.

“We have a commitment to you to bring you things you haven’t seen before and to introduce new audiences to it,” she said. “We are committed to having multiple price points where nobody is turned away based on the cost of the event.”

The 2016-17 season includes symphony and music group performances, dance productions, speakers, illusionists and festival events.

Genres span the globe with events such as “Celebracion!” – a month-long cultural festival in October honoring the Latin community in Birmingham. In collaboration with the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the center will offer free events such as performances

by Tiempo Libre and dance exhibitions.

“Our global presence has increased with the festivals because of UAB’s priority of diversifying programs to reflect the diverse audiences in the community and on our campus,” Thompson said.

At least three of this season’s offerings are

specifically kid-oriented, although Thompson said much of the season is suitable for a young patron of the arts.

Plus, the ASC will be bringing back favorite artists and performances from year’s past as a tribute to the center’s 20 years.

Of course, Thompson notes, a good deal of what the center is able to do for the community is made possible through donors and corporate support.

The new carpet was a gift from EBSCO Industries Inc. and the updated drapery and lighting is the result of a gift from Jane S. Comer.

Many of this season’s series have sponsors or corporate partnerships.

While the rejuvenation of the center’s physical and technical operations is certainly ushering it into a new era, Thompson hopes the 20th season offerings will encourage new patronage.

“We are a lot of fun. Just come out and try something. Be open to it and have a good time.

You don’t have to have pre-knowledge of it or be an expert. It is about experiencing the arts and having fun,” Thompson said.

The ASC is home to the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, UAB’s Department of Music and Department of Theater and ArtPlay – an arts education center for the Birmingham community.

For more information on the center and the 20th anniversary season, visit alysstephens.org.

The season kicks off Sept. 23 with an indoor/ outdoor aerial performance exhibition by Bandaloop. P

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center Celebrates 20th Season

Jayne Morgan, in her studio in the Artists on the Bluff building in Hoover, is one of the 145 artists who will be showing and selling their work at the 53rd annual Bluff Park Art Show on Oct. 1.

Honey Bear Madness Bluff Park Artist Brings Touch of Childhood to Annual Art Show

By Sarah Kuper Growing up, Jayne Morgan was enthusiastic about two things: art and honey bears.

“We just always had a honey bear at the table for bread and dessert,” she said. “They remind me of a wonderful childhood.”

Now, she is known in the art world for her oil and acrylic paintings of the plastic bears and other similar subject matter.

She’s even got collectors.

“I have regulars who come to the show looking for this year’s Jayne Morgan honey bear,” she said.

Morgan, a Hoover High graduate, is just one of the 145 artists who will be showing and selling their work at the 53rd annual Bluff Park Art Show on Oct. 1.

Originally from Birmingham, Morgan moved back home after completing her education at the Savannah College of Art and Design.

She wasn’t sure where to live after being away from the area but she got some good advice from her dad.

“He said I absolutely had to live in Bluff Park because of the art community there,” she said. “I had no idea and a lot of people still don’t. That’s why I’m such a big proponent.”

In fact, Morgan is the Bluff Park Art Association’s artist ambassador. She has her studio in the Artists on the Bluff building on Park Avenue, and she represents the community and helps with the art show.

Morgan has been showing at the event for several years but she’s been attending since she was a child.

“My favorite used to be seeing the folk artists perform,” she said. “I always wanted to do art shows but I can’t believe it has become my career. I’m able to pay my mortgage through art.”

She said she gives a lot of credit to the Bluff Park community and the art show.

As an adult artist, Morgan enjoys the art show not just because of the opportunity to showcase her work to a new audience, but also because it is a chance to see new work from her peers.

“There are the regulars who show, both from Bluff Park and all over, that I enjoy seeing. Plus, I run into former art teachers,” she said.

Morgan is excited to see the art show grow every year. There will be 38 new artists at this year’s event.

Many of the participants are local to the Over the Mountain area, but there also are artists coming from all over the nation to show their work.

‘I have regulars who come to the show looking for this year’s Jayne Morgan honey bear.’

Jayne Morgan

Plus, the free one-day show includes food trucks, music and kids’ activities.

Morgan will be showing everything from $5 magnets to a $5,000, 10-foot honey bear painting.

When she isn’t painting or teaching classes at Artists on the Bluff, Morgan is working at the Exceptional Foundation, teaching art to special needs adults.

But recently, Morgan has had to change her schedule to allow for more painting time.

“One of the actors from the HBO show ‘Silicon Valley’ bought one of my paintings and posted about it on Instagram. Now it is ‘honey bear madness’ trying to keep up with orders.”

The Bluff Park Art Show is Oct. 1 in front of the Bluff Park Community Center. Admission is free.

For more information on the event and other initiatives of the Bluff Park Art Association, visit bluffparkartassociation.org. P

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 11

liff

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal Alabama Ballet: alabamaballet.org

At Home - Sept. 23-25 This season opener will feature six short performances. The show will continue Sept. 30-Oct. 2. Tickets are $20.

Bonnie and Clyde - Oct. 28-30 The ballet will present the world premiere of this production in ASFA’s Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. Tickets begin at $30.

Alabama Symphony Orchestra: alabamasymphony.org

Carlos & Tchaikovsky No. 5 Sept. 16 and 17 The EBSO Masterworks series will open with an 8 p.m. performance at the Alys Stephens Center. Tickets begin at $24.

Symphony30 Picnic - Sun., Sept. 25 The Symphony Volunteer Council will host a concert fundraiser at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens from 4-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $12.50 for children.

Birmingham Does Broadway Fri., Sept. 30 The SuperPOPS! concert series will open at 8 p.m. in Samford University’s Wright Center. Tickets begin at $22.50.

Alys Stephens Center: alysstephens.org

Bandaloop - Sept. 23 The center’s 20th season opener will feature this aerial performance group at 8 p.m.

Kevin Spencer - Sat., Oct. 1 This world-renowned illusionist

Fall arts preview will perform a free, sensory-friendly production at 1 p.m.

Black Jacket Symphony - Oct. 14 The band will perform David Bowie’s “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” at 8 p.m.

Tickets begin at $45.50.

“You Can’t Take It With You” Oct. 19-23 Theatre UAB will perform this Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy at 2 p.m. Tickets begin at $12.

David Sedaris - Oct. 23 The NPR humorist and best-selling author will speak beginning at 7 p.m.

Tickets begin at $48.

Del McCoury with David Grisman Oct. 28 The duo will perform a bluegrass concert beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $48.

SAMFORD UNIVERSITY’S 2016–17 WRIGHT CENTER SIGNATURE SERIES TIM HAWKINS–Selling Fast!

Family Fun Comedy OCT. 14 AT 7 P.M. $25–95

Inspirational Classical Guitarists

SERGIO & ODAIR ASSAD

Tickets available at rockshowcomedy.com

In partnership with Samford Arts Davis Architects Guest Artist Series

BROCK RECITAL HALL

In partnership with Rock Show Comedy FEB. 21 AT 7:30 P.M. $30–35

KAT EDMONSON

Jazzy singer-songwriter’s first Birmingham performance

David Sedaris Estampas Portenas - Nov. 6 The Buenos Aires Tango Company will perform tango beginning at 7 p.m.

Tickets begin at $28.

Basetrack Live - Nov. 13 The center will host a program featuring true stories of families and Marines who served in Afghanistan beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $28.

See calendar, page 15

BROCK RECITAL HALL

NOV. 3–4 AT 7 P.M. $25–35

RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

Live, multimedia spectacular APRIL 6 AT 7 P.M. $15–40

STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN ELVIS AND J.D. A GOSPEL CELEBRATION In partnership with Alabama Symphony

NOV. 18 AT 7 P.M. $15–20

Orchestra Red Diamond SuperPOPS! APRIL 22 AT 8 P.M. $25–75 Tickets available at alabamasymphony.org

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12 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

life

By Emily Williams

When professional jazz musician Vann Burchfield was contacted by his hometown of Hoover’s only jazz festival to perform five years ago, he was ready to commit. But mother nature had a different plan.

“A tornado hit our home and we lost everything,” Burchfield said. “So, we were busy rebuilding our lives.”

Burchfield has attended the Preserve Jazz Festival, but this is his first year taking the stage.

After a one-year break, the event is returning Sept. 17 and will be held at its original venue, The Preserve.

The festival moved for one year to Sloss Furnaces, which yielded a smaller turnout, and then last year was on hiatus.

“It’s a very family oriented atmosphere,” Burchfield said. “We’ll be in a big open field and you’ll see a variety of performers. There’s something Birmingham for everyone.”

Children’s Theatre Burchfield’s music lives in smooth jazz. Other performers at the festival will include the Hoover High School First Edition jazz band, a classic New Orleans brass band, solo bass performances and more.

“Music has different places in different times in our lives,” Burchfield said, confessing his appreciation for a wide range of tunes, even mentioning Katy Perry and Taylor Swift.

For younger generations that may not think to explore jazz, Burchfield suggests turning on a song when For tickets and information call (205) 458-8181 looking for something relaxing.

“To put on the soft smooth instruor visit www.bct123.org /african-tales mentals of jazz in the background, it doesn’t distract or cause me to listen to both things at once. It provides a nice ambiance,” he said.

He began playing the piano at age six but encountered his first wind LeNa instrument at 10, when he took up Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 playing the clarinet in his elementary FAX: 205-824-1246 school band.

“When I picked up a saxophone, September everything changed,” he said. “It was This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAL thejust been reacquainted with likefor I had an old friend.”

September 8th issue. Please email approval or changes to 824-1246.

To become a successful sax player, Burchfield devoted two hours a day to Please make sure all information is correct, practicing the instrument and develincluding address and phone number!oped an athletic lifestyle to keep up a Davis Architects Series Davis Architects Series healthy lung capacity.

Not only is Burchfield a working SOTTO VOCE TUBA QUARTET THE KALICHSTEIN-LAREDOmusician, he holds a Guinness World March 28, 7:30 p.m.

ROBINSON TRIO Record for the longest note held on copresented with Birmingham Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. a wind instrument. To break Kenny Chamber Music Society copresented with Birmingham G’s record, Burchfield said he had to Chamber Music Society perform before three Guinness judges Additional Birmingham and was monitored by a sound device Chamber Music Society Event Davis Architects Series to keep track of his pitch. To be AMERNET STRING QUARTET LEON FLEISHER AND counted as continuous, his pitch could Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m.

KATHERINE JACOBSON vary by no more than five decibels Brock Recital Hall Nov. 17, 7:30 p.m. higher or lower.

He is the last recognized winner in Davis Architects Series the category because it was dissolved THE ASSAD BROTHERS following his triumph.

Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m.

“All I can do now is best my copresented with the Wright Center personal time,” Burchfield said. “My Signature Series and Birmingham personal best is one hour eight minChamber Music Society utes and 22 seconds.”

The bulk of Burchfield’s career E S T. 1841 has been spent performing gospel music, including years of touring with the Joyce Myers Ministries, which Tickets are $10 offered him many opportunities to see tickets.samford.edu for students the world. While playing throughout 205-726-2853 and $30 reserved.

Japan and the United States, he said, he noticed the emotions on the faces of audience members were much the

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Smooth Tunes

Hoover’s Burchfield to Showcase New Album at Preserve Jazz Festival

To: From: Date:

Vann Burchfield is scheduled to perform at The Preserve Jazz Festival on Sept. 17.

same.

One of his biggest honors, he said, was being invited to play for former Gov. Bob Riley at the state’s annual Christmas gala. On top of that, he and his wife were given the opportunity to spend the night at the Governor’s Mansion.

The experience could only be topped by his performances at the annual White House Holiday Open House during the presidency of George W. Bush, playing the iconic 9-foot Steinway and Sons piano in the East Room.

He always dabbled in smooth jazz even while on Christian music tours and released two Christmas albums that he describes as “gospel with a smooth jazz flavor,” earning him the moniker “the Christian Kenny G.” At one of Burchfield’s solo performances, Kenny G emerged from the audience and approached him, complimenting his tone and asking to inspect his saxophone.

“I told him that it wasn’t the horn that’s making the sound, it’s all me,” Burchfield said. “I thought it was so funny that Kenny G wanted to know so much about me.”

But once Kenny G caught wind of Burchfield’s world record and the termination of the longest note category,

Burchfield said the cordial relationship was tested.

The next time he had the opportunity to meet Kenny G, the star’s manager told Burchfield to steer clear of any talk of Guinness World Records.

When Burchfield takes the stage at the Preserve Jazz Festival with his fellow band members, guests will hear tunes from his newest album “Let’s Get Started.” When he released his first single from the album, it reached the number one spot on the New York radio station WITD’s Top 25 countdown.

Burchfield will host a free concert to celebrate the album Sept. 15 at Perfect Note in Hoover starting at 7 p.m.

The Preserve Jazz Festival will open to guests at 11 a.m. and performances will begin at 1 p.m. Guests are invited to bring along small coolers, food and drink. Tickets are $38 and children ages 10 and under enter for free. Proceeds from the event benefit Samford’s the Rev. John T. Porter Minority Scholarship, as well as the university’s radio station, WVSUFM, which is the only station in the Birmingham area dedicated to smooth jazz.

For more information, visit preservejazz.com. P

Photo special to the Journal

September 27th through October 21st

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 13

life

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Hoover’s Library Theatre Brings Back Fan Favorites for 25th Season

20th Anniversary Season The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s performing arts center.

SEPTEMBER

23 BANDALOOP

FREE Outdoor Event

Photos special to the Journal

The Library Theatre in Hoover will be opening its 25th season of performances with a new look, but the faces that flock to the stage will be familiar ones.

This year’s lineup will bring back some of the most popular performances from the past 25 years of the theater, giving audiences something akin to a second chance in case they missed out on the artists previously. Taking into account the length of time that has passed since the theater’s first season Fine Arts Coordinator Matina Johnson said the earliest years of the theater won’t be as well represented.

“Over the course of 25 years, many performers are now deceased and most of the plays that were shown aren’t mounted tours anymore,” Johnson said.

That being said, some of the earliest performances wouldn’t match up to the caliber of performers the venue showcases now.

When the theater first opened its doors, Johnson said, it was just building up its reputation.

“When I first started working here, we were still relying on board members to pack the seats,” she said. “It wasn’t until 2000 and 2001 that we started selling out the space.”

She recalled that one of the first big-selling shows was Nickel Creek, a country music trio, which sparked the theater’s transition into a “world-class venue.” Flash-forward to today, and the theater has been steadily selling out almost every show for more than a decade.

Johnson dubs herself the “idea girl,” booking the artists that she believes will please the audience and some that will take the staff out of its comfort zone.

“I like to have as much diversity and variety in the seasons,” she said. “I’ve found that the majority of our audiences like to be challenged.”

Though she said she has never felt any of the performers were a risky choice for the theater, Johnson admitted that a few of the more spectacular productions made her a bit nervous.

Last year’s light show performance by the Luma Theatre art group peaked a bit of anxiety.

“They use backlights while they dance and I kept thinking, our theater isn’t that big,” Johnson said. “Our proscenium is quite close to the stage and I was so worried that the images

The 25th season kick-off will mark what Johnson calls a long-awaited reunion with Grammy-award winner Mark Cohn, performing Oct. 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m.

wouldn’t translate because the audience was so close.”

Most of the performances that have taken to the stage have been musical groups and plays, so the larger productions tend to throw the staff for a loop.

“For the last Cirque du Soleil show, we had to bring in an entire rigging system, which at the time seemed hilarious, because the actors would only be suspended about 17 feet off of the ground at most,” Johnson said.

She’s fond of the “fun things” that happen while preparing for major productions, like big 18-wheelers full of set designs getting stuck in the theater’s driveway.

“It’s a normal thing to deal with at 2 o’clock in the morning before a show, but we have a wonderful team who works hard to make everything run smoothly,” she said. “There are many members of our staff that have been here almost, if not longer than I have. … These are people who know the space and who know Hoover.”

Johnson said having the theater connected with the library has been an asset. “Having that connection has helped give Hoover a cultural hub of arts and education,” Johnson said.

The theater is the brainchild of library Director Linda Andrews, whom Johnson describes as a mentor to her and an inspiration to the staff.

“We are all so lucky to have her,” Johnson said. “She really is the one who had this vision to bring avantgarde performances to a venue that was more than just a children’s theater, and it has been.”

In addition to the high-caliber

performances, the venue holds three art galleries with displays that rotate monthly.

“Art is a huge part of our theater,” Johnson said. “We like to coordinate exhibitions with whatever show we have going on to try and expose the community to another level of culture.”

To accommodate the large crowds that filter through the cramped galleries after a performance, the theater is undergoing construction. Walls in the Friends Art Gallery and adjoining meeting rooms are being torn down to create one large event space with moveable partitions. In addition, the facade of the theater will get a facelift and feature an updated look.

“This will be the first big renovation that we’ve ever done,” Johnson said.

“We’ve talked about it for years. How can we utilize more open space and have it be more functional for a variety of events?”

Construction is set to finish in September, pushing the season opener back a month later than the usual season.

The kick-off will mark what Johnson calls a long-awaited reunion with Grammy-award winner Mark Cohn, performing Oct. 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m.

“We’ve talked to Mark about coming back for a reunion a few times, but the timing was never right,” Johnson said. “We always look for an opener and a closer and this year he is opening our 25th season as he celebrates the 25th anniversary of his “Walking in Memphis” album.

“This year we are focusing on bringing back artists you may have seen before or missed seeing,” Johnson said.

“For our 26th season, we’ll be showing all of the things that folks haven’t seen before.”

But just because the artists are returning doesn’t mean they will be putting on a familiar performance. The Celtic Tenors, who previously gave a Christmas show, will be showing their traditional performance, and the dance group Rhythmic Circus will take the stage during the holiday season.

Tickets for the 2016-17 season will go on sale for former season subscribers Sept. 6, followed by new season subscribers Sept. 8 and open sales Sept. 9 at 10 a.m.

For more information, visit hooverlibrary.org. P

FEBRUARY

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14 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

The Artist in You

By June Mathews

Photo special to the Journal. Journal photo by Jordan Wald

For 65 years, the Birmingham Museum of Art has served as a cultural beacon to the Birmingham community and beyond.

Through its permanent collection, special exhibits, social events and educational programs, the museum reaches out to give even those who consider themselves distinctly unartistic a healthy dose of creative inspiration.

The tradition continues this fall with a new program called Studio School, a selection of classes for children, teens and adults led by experienced artists and ‘Our goal is limited only by the imaginato make art tions of the students them- come alive for people, and selves.

“Studio conducting School seseducational sions will programs is focus on a process, theme one of the best or idea found ways to do in our galthat.’ leries,” said the program’s Meredith Knight coordinator, Meredith Knight. “Participants will be inspired by different artists to create their own artwork through a range of approaches, including painting, sculpture and mixed media, as they learn new skills or refresh existing ones.”

The fall session of Studio School consists of monthly classes designated by age group. Options include Grades 1-5 Class on Saturday mornings; Grades 6-8 Class on Monday afternoons; Grades 9-12 Class on Tuesday afternoons; Adult Class on Wednesday evenings; Parent-Child Class (Grades 1-5) on Saturday morn-

ings; Craft Tuesday (ages 21 and up) on Tuesday evenings; and Break for Art (Grades 1-6) during Thanksgiving break.

For exact dates and times, refer to the Studio School schedule at artsbma.org/studio-school/.

“We’re really excited about the whole Studio School concept,” said Knight. “We believe it’s the perfect way to share the enjoyment and benefits of art to a variety of age groups, not to mention a way to share all the wonderful aspects of the Birmingham Museum of Art. “And thanks to Studio School’s presenting sponsor, the Comer Foundation, we’ve been able to purchase some additional equipment – a new kiln, for instance – that will help us with future programs. So the program is really helping us to expand what we can do in the long run.”

Museum members receive a 20 percent discount on each registration fee. Participants may also receive 20 percent off when signing up for all fall classes in a series, with the exception of Break for Art. Registration for Studio School is now open, and pre-registration is required for all classes. Materials are included in the fees.

The Birmingham Museum of Art is on 3.9 acres in the heart of the city’s downtown cultural district, at 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., formerly Eighth Avenue North. The original museum building was completed in 1959 with additions taking place in 1965, 1967, 1974 and 1980.

The entire facility was renovated in 1993. In total, the museum encompasses 180,000 square feet, 30,000 of which is the outdoor sculpture garden.

“We’re very proud of our museum and of all the advantages we’re able to offer through it to the Birmingham community,” said Knight. “Our goal is to make art come alive for people, and conducting educational programs is one of the best ways to do that.”

For more information about Studio School, contact Meredith Knight at 254-2643 or email mknight@artsbma. org. P

Photos courtesy Alabama Ballet

New BMA Program Set to Inspire, Educate All Ages

‘It’s a magical place for young children to be able to look across the hall and see professional dancers training.’

Tracey Alvey

A Decade of Dance

Alabama Ballet Artistic Director Celebrates 10 Years in Birmingham

By Emily Williams As she celebrates her 10th season as artistic director of the Alabama Ballet, Tracey Alvey can safely say the years have flown by.

“People always tell you that, as you get older, time goes by much faster and it is completely true,” Alvey said.

For Alvey, it seems just yesterday that she was on the stage herself. Born in Kent, England, Alvey began dancing at about the age of nine. She had a 20-year career as a classical ballerina after she graduated from The Royal Ballet School in London, one of the country’s three premiere arts schools.

Name just about any working English performer – actor or dancer alike – and Alvey says chances are they studied at one of those three arts schools at one point in time.

During her career, Alvey was a principal dancer for the London City Ballet and performed for notables such as Queen Elizabeth II and the late Princess Diana.

“I still feel as if I’m 20 years old,” Alvey said. “There are times that I put on my tights and slippers and join in on a lesson and I so enjoy that I have that opportunity.”

When Alvey made the move from the United Kingdom to the United States, she accepted a position as ballet mistress for the Alabama Ballet under the impression that it would be a part-time gig. Two years later she rose to the role of artistic director, spending the past decade planning and overseeing the company’s season as well as the Alabama Ballet School.

“I’m so fortunate because something I started doing as a hobby turned into a career,” she said. “Not a lot of people can say that. I’m working with a fantastic group of like-minded people and we all challenge each other every day and grow as a team.”

Alvey added that the length of a dancers’ career on the stage is never truly secure because it is dependent on physical condition. Injuries that sideline a dancer can happen at any moment, so being able to transition into the administrative side of the ballet was a blessing.

After a decade spent planning and overseeing the Alabama Ballet’s annual season of four large-scale productions, Alvey said there is still nothing quite as welcoming as the first days of rehearsal.

“Those first days back are such an exciting time,” she said. “The busier it is in this building, the more energy you can feel all around you.”

Under her authority, the Alabama Ballet School has been recognized as the only school in Alabama to incorporate the official Royal Academy of Dance syllabus.

“It’s a magical place for young children to be able to look across the hall and see professional dancers training,” Alvey said. “I remember when I was a student, we would crowd around the windows and peek in at the company dancers and these guest soloists and choreographers, like Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn.”

Alvey said it’s important to bring in guest choreographers for shows, not just for their fame, but for the learning opportunity.

“There is always such immense pressure to be perfect, but perfection doesn’t exist,” Alvey said. “I think it’s most important for these dancers to leave the season knowing more than they did when they entered.”

When choosing the pieces to include in the season, she tries to bring in ballets that she would have enjoyed performing. Though she stuck to classical ballet, she said she isn’t immune to the draw of contemporary pieces.

“As far as challenges and goals, one thing that I always try to do when faced with a decision is come from the side of the dancer,” Alvey said. “I like to bring in pieces that are just as exciting for the company as they are for audiences.”

In her first years as artistic director, Alvey said, she was quite conservative with her requests. But she learned to push the boundaries as she grew more confident. One of the most notable successes, according to Alvey, was bringing acclaimed choreographer Sir Christopher Bruce’s “Rooster” to the 2010 season.

“I actually spoke with him personally, which was quite intimidating,” she said. “My motto is, ‘If you don’t ask, you don’t get,’ so I asked.”

With that same principal in mind, Alvey is hoping to bring in something fresh among the staples this season.

The 2016-17 season will begin with the At Home series of performances at the Alabama Ballet Sept. 23 to 25 and Sept. 30 to Oct. 2. The dancers will then move over to the Dorothy Jemison Day Theater at the Alabama School of Fine Arts for “Bonnie and Clyde” Oct. 28-30.

“I’m really excited about this piece because I feel it’s a classic story that will appeal to a number of generations,” she said. “Audiences will be seeing it from a different perspective. It’s not as much about the crime, which will have its place, but more the love story between the two.”

The company will then prepare for the annual performance of Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker,” an audience favorite but also a favorite for the dancers.

Following the holiday performance will be the famous Romantic ballet “Giselle,” to which Alvey is no stranger, having danced the principal role during her career. The piece also happens to be her favorite ballet.

Finishing off the season will be the Ovation collection of contemporary ballet. The featured piece will be Twyla Tharp’s “In the Upper Room.”

Though it’s still just an idea in the works, Alvey is hoping she and her team can add a Prince-themed performance to Ovation in honor of the late artist.

“I feel that there truly is something for everyone to enjoy this season,” Alvey said. “Ten years has gone by so fast, but each year has been a challenge and a blessing all at once.”

For more information, visit alabamaballet.org. P

calendar, From page 11

Artists Incorporated: artistsincorporated.com

Opening Reception Oct. 7 and Nov. 4 The gallery host a reception from 4:30-8:30 p.m. to introduce new monthly exhibitions.

Birmingham Art Crawl: birminghamartcrawl.com

Art Crawl - Oct. 6 and Nov. 3 Local artists and performers will present exhibitions throughout downtown Birmingham from 5-9 p.m.

Club. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

Red Mountain Theatre Company: redmountaintheatre.org

Broadway Night at the Cabaret Sept. 30-Oct.1 This Cabaret Theatre show will feature Broadway performers DeMarius Copes, Morgan Sith and Caitlin Kinnunen. Tickets begin at $20.

Close Encounters of the Storytelling Kind - Oct. 29-30 Dolores Hydock will present a storytelling program in the Cabaret Theatre.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre: bct123.org

Kat Edmonson

Dailey and Vincent - Nov. 16-18 The Grammy Award-winning duo will perform at 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $25.

Moss Rock Festival: mossrockfestival.com

Eco-Creative Festival and Beer Garden - Nov. 5 and 6 The 11th annual event will be held at The Preserve in Hoover beginning at 10 a.m. each day. A craft beer tasting will be held Sat. at noon and 2:30 p.m. and Sun. at 1 p.m. Tickets begin at $7.

Positively Funny Inc. positivelyfunnyinc.com

“Lady and the Trump” - Sept. 20-22 PFI will perform an original political comedic musical at StarDome Comedy

Kat Edmonson - Nov. 3 and 4 The Wright Center’s Signature Series continues with 7 p.m. concerts featuring jazzy singer Kat Edmonson. Tickets begin at $25.

Leon Fleisher and Katherine Jacobson - Nov. 17 The Davis Architects series continues with a 7:30 performance in the Wright Center. Tickets begin at $10.

Terrific New Theater: terrificnewtheatre.com

Daddy’s Dyin’…Who’s Got the Will? Sept. 8 - Oct. 1 The theatre will host performances of this southern comedy written by Del Shores and directed by Kathleen Jensen. Tickets are $25.

TICKETS: WWW.ALABAMABALLET.ORG | (205) 202-8142

OTMJ Season Ad.indd 1

Grand Concourse - Oct. 27-Nov. 19 The theatre will host performances of this play written by Heidi Schreck and directed by Bethe Ensey. Tickets are $25.

Central Alabama Theatre: centralalabamatheatre.org

Marc Cohn - Oct. 13-14 The theatre will open its 25th season with performances by this Grammy Award-winner at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.

2016 2017

Three Vampires, Two Ghosts and a Piano - Oct. 21 This show is a combination of solo and duet readings and will begin at 10 a.m. at the Smithfield Library.

I and You - Nov. 3-26 The theatre’s season will continue with this performance of a teen mystery.

Season tickets are $99.

Hoover Library Theatre: Hooverlibrary.org

Tracey Alvey, Artistic Director

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Oct. 19 The performers will recount Washington Irving’s supernatural tale at 12:30 p.m. at Emmet O’Neal Library.

A Christmas Carol - Nov. 15-Dec. 18 The theatre will perform the classic Christmas tale on the main stage.

Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children.

CAT Cabaret - Oct. 1 The theatre will continue it’s cabaret series with an installment featuring Kristen Sharp. The performance will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Steeple Arts Dance Academy in Crestline Village. Tickets are $30.

Sleeping Beauty - Oct. 21-23 The Samford Theatre for Youth will host this production in the Harrison Theatre. Tickets begin at $10.

Haunting Tales - Oct. 17 and 28 The troupe presents a 6 p.m. performance of a collection of chilling tales at the Gardendale Library.

African Tales - Sept. 27-Oct. 21 The theatre will perform this collection of tales on its main stage. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Red Herring - Sept. 22-Oct. 15 The theatre will open its newest season with performances of this mystery. Season tickets are $99.

Samford String Quartet - Oct. 20 The Wright Center will host a free send-off concert prior to the group’s Carnegie Hall performance Oct. 24 from 7:30-9 p.m.

Seasoned Performers: seasonedperformers.org

“The Little Engine that Could” Sept. 10 and 17 The theatre will present a musical adaptation of the children’s book on the Wee Folk’s Stage at the BJCC. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Birmingham Festival Theatre: bftonline.org

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 15

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Carlos Izcaray Doctor Dolittle Jr. - Nov. 4-5 The company’s Discovery Series will present this family-friendly musical in the Cabaret Theatre.

Samford University: samford.edu

Past and Present - Sept. 8-29 The Samford Art Gallery will display the work of adjunct professor Mary Ann Culotta. A reception will be held Sept. 27 from 5-7 p.m.

The Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio - Sept. 27 Davis Architects Guest Artist Series, co-presented by the Birmingham Chamber Music Society, will open with a 7:30 p.m. performance. Tickets begin at $10.

Fine Art Photography - Oct. 6-Nov. 17 The Art Gallery will display the work of Samford grad Cliff Bell. A reception will be held Nov. 10 from 4-6 p.m.

Tim Hawkins - Oct. 14 The Wright Center will open its Signature Series with a 7 p.m. concert featuring Tim Hawkins, a christian comedian/musician. Tickets begin at $25.

Virginia Samford Theatre: virginiasamfordtheatre.org

Spamalot - Sept.16-Oct.2 The theatre will host performances of the comedic musical, directed by Norton Dill of Vestavia Hills. Tickets begin at $30.

9/2/2016 12:46:24 PM

She’s coming in concert!

Presented by the Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch An Evening with

Twelfth Night - Nov. 4-17 The theatre will host performances of this Shakespearean classic in the Martha Moore Sykes Studio Theatre.

Tickets are $25.

Vulcan Park and Museum: visitvulcan.com

Vulcan Aftertunes - Sept. 25 The museum’s Vulcan Aftertunes series will feature Duquette Johnston and Dylan Leblanc. Gates open at 1 p.m. Tickets begin at $8.

Vulcan Aftertunes - Oct. 9 The museum’s Vulcan Aftertunes series will feature Big Sam’s Funky Nation with Tragic City. Gates open at 1 p.m. Tickets begin at $8.

Vulcan Aftertunes - Oct. 23 The museum’s Vulcan Aftertunes series will feature Amanda Shires and Jesse Payne.

Gates open at 1 p.m. Tickets begin at $8.

You don’t want to miss this exciting You don’t want to miss this exciting evening of inspiration, stories, evening of inspiration, stories, songs and more.

songs and more.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2016 • 7:30 p.m.

GetLeslie your tickets before they are gone!

S. now Wright Center Order onlineSamford at tickets.samford.edu or call 205.726.2853 University Birmingham, AL All proceeds go to benefit the Auxiliary’s work for the children of Big Oak Ranch.

Get your tickets now before they are gone!

Order online at tickets.samford.edu or call 205.726.2853

All proceeds go to benefit the Auxiliary’s work for the children of Big Oak Ranch.

P.O. Box 530887, Birmingham, AL 35253

16 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

Photos by David Bley Storytellers

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Michele Kong and Dahn Ballard.

From left: Sheree Acheson, Arden Upton, Kathy G. Mezrano and Megan Gravely.

Among the Stars KultureCity Gala Brings Big Names to Birmingham ore than 650 guests made their way to the Haven Building on Aug. 6 to support Vestavia Hills-based KultureCity, an autism awareness organization that’s reach extends internationally.

The event raised more than $120,000 for the organization’s mission, doubling the original goal of $60,000. It included a live auction that featured New York City vacations, complete with tickets to “Hamilton” and dinner with Roger Clemens. In addition, artist David Garibalidi, featured on America’s Got Talent, performed a live painting demonstration.

Stars in attendance included Dahn and Alimi Ballard, Tom and Alison Petersson, Jacqueline and Chris Laurita, Sho Baraka, Tiki Barber, Traci Lynn Johnson and Madeline Stuart.

A VIP party was held the previous evening at Windwood Equestrian, offering guests a more intimate venue to mingle with celebrities and sponsors. The 2016 recipients of the KultureCity Advocacy awards were recognized during the event. ❖

M

Avani and Rupa Patel.

Betsy Frazer and Diane Zaragoza.

Steve and Karen Odle.

Anna and Libby Matthews.

Yuthika Girme and Steve Miller.

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 17

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

BOHEMIAN

Brunch, Art & Beats Join us for the most inspired brunch in town featuring progressive, regional cuisine, live music and art.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

SUNDAYS, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Emily and Will Wykle with their children Susie and Holly.

Will and Catherine Pringle, with sons Bob and Cooper.

Boot Scootin’ Boogie

Mountain Brook Mom Hosts Inaugural Fundraiser for Children’s of Alabama After watching her 4-year-old daughter, Grace, battle cancer in 2014, Mountain Brook mother Mimi Bittick decided she couldn’t sit idly by.

To help raise much needed funds for the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama, Bittick hosted the Back to School Boogie at Haven on Aug. 27.

The event served to kick-off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month at Children’s, which takes place during September.

The event is just part of Bittick and her family’s effort to raise $1 million dollars over the next five years.

Musical entertainment was the highlight of the evening, featuring The SBG’s, Matthew Mayfield and Lee and Brian of T.U.B. While children enjoyed face painting, balloon animals and other activities, parents perused a selection of items up for silent auction.

Full Moon Bar-B-Que provided a picnic dinner for guests, including a number of patients and their families. ❖

RESERVE YOUR TABLE: 205.203.4745

G R A N D B O H E M I A N M O U N TA I N B R O O K . C O M

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18 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure

THE FACE OF A From left: Austin and Kayla Funk, and Kathy and Gary Eudy.

Going for Gold

OHOH Junior Board Holds Gala Fundraiser

The Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders is committed to finding a cure for Grace and the more than 1,500 children who come to us for care each year.

Local non-profit organization Open Hands and Overflowing Hearts held a fun-filled event Aug. 20 to raise funds for the organization’s mission to end childhood cancer.

Guests dressed in their black tie best, making sure to add a touch of gold to their attire, and enjoyed food, drinks and dancing at WorkPlay.

Music for the evening was provided

by Black Jacket Band.

In attendance was the organization’s founder, Kayla Perry Funk, a survivor of childhood cancer, along with co-Executive Directors Rob Perry and Christen Perry, and Director of Development Hayden Patton.

The event was hosted by the junior board, which includes Kayla Perry Funk, Rob Perry, Christen Perry, Hayden Patton, Katelyn Mitchell, Whitney Hill, Eric Hill, Katie May, Wes May, Clay Barnett, Tyler Barton, Matthew Hill, Ryan Killingsworth, Angie Killingsworth, Lacey Entrekin, Jessica Rost, Brandy Patterson, Courtney DeShazo, Reid DeShazo, Sarah Stewart, Laycee Dorsett, Andrew Brown, Dallas Dixon Gibson, Margaret Murphy, Wilson Yielding, Jordin Barkley, Shelley Davis, Lindsey Owens, Daniel Williams, Jordin Hall, Josh Hall and John Pat Weinacker. ❖

Stephen and Lisa Burns with Lindsay and Andy Wilbanks.

As a founding member of the Children’s Oncology Group,* Children’s of Alabama and UAB combine research and innovative therapies to help save the lives of children down the street and around the world.

Although the cancer cure rate has risen from 50 to 84 percent in just 20 years and strokes in patients with sickle cell disease have decreased 90 percent through standardized screening processes, we are actively working toward a TOTAL CURE for children like Grace.

*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.

Right, Meredith Barker, Kayla Perry Funk and Jane Gray Price.

Below right,Hollie McReynolds and Chace Spears.

Brand New Medical Office Space For Lease Decatur Highway - Gardendale, Alabama

Available on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday • Single or Multiple Days Available • For Additional information please email Leslie at lsanford4@juno.com

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CURE

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With a Little Help From Friends

Animals and Humans Mingle at Annual Hand in Paw Fundraiser

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 19

Photo special to the Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

From left: Jeanie Mimi Wallace with Pippa and Philippa Bainbridge.

Service pets and partygoers were on parade at the Harbert Center on Aug. 13 for Hand in Paw’s annual Picasso Pets art auction.

The event was organized by Sponsorship Chairwoman Nancy S. Burton and featured food, music and more.

Showcased in the live auction were pieces created by local artists who collaborated with the pets of prominent local figures to create one-of-a-kind artwork. Featured artists included Dr. Lindsey Petras, Bob McKenna, Ann Phillips, Leah Dodd, Linda Ellen Price and Beth Bradley.

Other items up for auction include party packages, jewelry, vacations and dining experiences.

Proceeds from the event benefit the organization’s efforts to improve human health through one-on-one interactions with trained therapy animals.

Vestavia’s Premiere Green Home Community

Above, Shae Hicks Register and Scott Register. Left, Bart and Danielle Yancey.

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

Bubbling Over

Local Rotary District Hosts Annual Shrimp Boil Fundraiser Rotary International District 6860 hosted its annual fundraiser, Boiling N’ Bragging, Aug. 20 in front of Otey’s Tavern in Crestline Village.

District Gov. Gary Andrew welcomed the crowd of guests, dressed in the colors of their favorite football teams. Lance Taylor of WJOX-FM served as the emcee for the evening.

Among the more than 300 guests were representatives of various dis-

trict rotary clubs as well as various Critical Care Transport staff members.

The highlight of the evening was a low-country boil, complete with corn, shrimp, sausage and potatoes.

Hamburgers and hot dogs were also on the menu.

In addition to savoring tailgate treats, event activities included mascot interactions, a corn hole game,

silent auction featuring sports memorabilia and music provided Sean Heninger.

Rotary Clubs in District 6860 that sponsored the event included Gadsden, Shades Valley, Tuscaloosa Morning, Birmingham, Birmingham Sunrise, North Shelby-Inverness, Albertville, Jasper, Vestavia Hills Noon, Florence, Greater Huntsville, Decatur Daybreak, Trussville Daybreak and the Rotaract Club of Birmingham.

Funds raised through the event will benefit Children’s of Alabama’s Critical Care Transport program. ❖

Attic Antiques Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Antiques • Vintage Industrial

In Store Sale!

Tue.-Sat. 10-4:30 5620 Cahaba Valley Road From left: Carol Davenport, Bernadine Faulkner, Austin Bullard, Addi Bullard John Bullard, Amanda Bullard and Jennifer Brewer.

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www.wedgworth.net (205) 365-4344

20 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

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Call today or visit our showroom to arrange for your complimentary design consultation.

Photo special to the Journal

©2015 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

Franchises independently owned and operated.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

From left: Becca Lee, Brittany Gordon, Azeem Qadeer and Jennifer Lawes.

Vino & Van Gogh

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1

More than 300 guests turned out to Iron City Birmingham for United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham’s annual fundraiser Aug. 18.

The event was organized by junior board President Jennifer Lawes along with event co-Chairs Becca Lee and Azeem Qadeer and sponsorship Chair Brittany Gordon.

Guests at the Vino and van Gogh event were treated to a variety of wines from Neighborhood Hops and Vine, Rush Wines and Ozan Vineyards as well as a silent auction and a live auction emceed by Jeh Jeh Pruitt.

Among the auction items were various vacation and dinner packages, jewelry, artwork, fine wines and an SEC Football Championship Game experience.

Artist Elise Serota collaborated with children from UCP’s Hand in Hand Early Learning Program to create a piece of art for the live auction, won by Leslie Allen and Betsy Richardson.

Proceeds from the event topped $45,000 and will be used to help provide programs and services at UCP of Greater Birmingham. ❖

11/10/15 10:16 AM

The 24th anniversary of the Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church was celebrated Aug. 13 by several hundred people.

The ceremony was instituted in 1981 by Pope John Paul II at St. Peter’s Basilica, encouraging other parishes to follow suit.

Perpetual Adoration at OLS was founded by parishioners Mary Claire Brouillette and the late Ida Wilker. The church is one of more than 1,000 parishes in the United States that recognizes the devotion.

The celebration began with an outdoor procession of the Blessed Sacrament from the Chapel of Our Savior to the church by OLS pastor Monsignor Martin Muller with the Knights of Columbus leading as the Honor Guard.

Benediction was followed by the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

The sanctuary bore 314 roses representing each committed adorer. Seven white roses represented seven committed adorers who died since the last anniversary.

In addition, 7,422 people visited the chapel during the past year from the countries of Spain and Belize, other local parishes, other Alabama cities, other states and Puerto Rico.

Books bearing the names and petitions of adorers and visitors were brought forward with the bread and wine during the offertory.

Betsy Richards, Melissa Pouncey and Leslie Allen.

Mary Claire Brouillette and Monsignor Martin Muller.

Muller conveyed his gratitude to the adorers for their dedication, declaring the day a “tremendous celebration.”

“I cannot speak highly enough for the parish,” he said.

“The heart of this parish is Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, Perpetual Adoration.”

After Mass, guests enjoyed a catered appreciation banquet in the Family Life Center. ❖

Photo special to the Journal

5 NIGHTS IN PUNTA CANA INCLUDES LAND FROM $ PLUS AIRFARE!!

AL056_OverMtnJourn_4x5_cmy_0915.indd 1

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 21

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Rehab Reality

by Jeff Butler

Photo special to the Journal

Wood-Chapman

From left: Toby and Jennifer Bearden with Brian and Chrissy Schubert.

Shine On

ASA Hosts 19th Annual Gala Fundraiser The Autism Society of Alabama raised more than $100,000 at the annual Autism Shines Gala Fundraiser, held Aug. 20 at the Birmingham Marriott.

JOX Roundtable emcees Ryan Brown and Jim Dunaway welcomed a crowd of more than 300. Guests spent the evening sipping complimentary beer and wine provided by Alabama Beverage and United Johnson Brothers while perusing a selection of 150 items up for silent auction.

Featured items included a Lake Tahoe getaway, Pursell Farm Stay and Play package and a week-long stay at Tops’l Beach and Racquet Resort.

Following dinner, attendees watched the organization’s “Year in Review” video, which highlighted the smiling faces of program participants and moments from programs such as First Responder Training, Camp FROG, conferences, workshops and other autism-friendly events.

Board of directors President Nancy Barnes presented the annual President’s Award to Denise Gillespie, Alice Murdoch and Cindy Nelson, each having impacted the state during their careers in public special education.

Additionallly, Kathy Lovell, Americans with Disabilities Act Manager at Regions Bank, accepted the Innovative Program award on behalf of the bank for its commitment to becoming autism-friendly.

At the end of the evening a winning name was drawn for the Ultimate Roll Tide Package, which included two tickets to the Crimson Tide’s opening game against USC as well as airfare and hotel accommodations in Dallas. ❖ Above, Charisse and Brian Jennings with Jerry.

Below, Kathy Lovell and Melanie Jones.

Jackson Dickson and Jennifer Dickson.

Mary Lassiter Wood and Andrew Ross Chapman were married May 7 at Mountain Brook Community Church. The Rev. Timothy Kallam officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wallace Wood of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Ross Chapman of Birmingham.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a Monique Lhuillier full Alencon and Chantilly lace gown featuring a modified bateau neckline. Delicate buttons adorned the back of her gown as a cascading Cathedral veil trimmed in Alencon lace flowed behind her.

Maid of honor was Lauren Taylor Wood, the sister of the bride.

Bridesmaids were Natalie Anderson Akin; Meghan Brown Amerson; Karen Marshall Barrow; Blayke Hanan Bearman; Allie Reynolds Chapman, Kalyn Elizabeth Chapman and Neeley Christine Chapman, sisters of the groom; Jordan Simmons Cobb; Courtney Patton DeShazo; Stephanie Geldzahler Ladden; Anna Templeton McDill; Madison Whatley Merrill; and Meagan Ballard Rhodes.

Fletcher Madison Merrill was the flower girl.

The father of the groom was best man. Groomsmen were Parker Boen Chapman, cousin of the groom; Charles Thomas Gibson; John Milner McCary Jr.; Scott Ryan McCaghren; Kevin Cornelius Partlow; David Walton Rader; Gregory Nolan Smith; Matthew Coles Tapley; Peter Owens Thompson; Thomas Glenwood Trott; and Wade Agerton Wood, brother of the bride. Thomas Lee Merrill IV was the ring bearer.

Richard Reid DeShazo, Thomas Lee Merrill III, Jack Parker Morris and Bryan Montgomery Reynolds were ushers.

After a honeymoon trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the couple live in Birmingham.

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

Do You Want to Know What Drives Me Crazy?

Well... crazier than usual.

Going into stores and seeing holiday decorations already. Can we please get through Halloween first?

My main beef with stores pushing seasonal wares so far out is that I think it’s too indicative of our times. We’d much rather look to the future and hopefully happy times than to dear with what is going on right now in our lives. It’s much more enjoyable than thinking about what could be happening right in front of our eyes. Here’s a taste of reality. Someone in your life, whether a relative, a friend or even you, is struggling with some type of addiction right now. This isn’t hyperbole.

This is sadly a fact. It is as much a sign of our times as much as those damn decorations for sale in September.

The good news is that addiction and alcoholism treatment have evolved as the acknowledgement and acceptance of the prevalence of these two have become more acceptable. No longer does treatment mean hospitals, cabins in the woods or medications that create zombies. A homelike atmosphere, freshly prepared gourmet meals, exercise, meaningful grouptherapy and quality individual counseling are fast becoming the benchmarks of treatment and the results bear out the reason that is so. They give people the best opportunity to start and to enjoy a happy sober life. I’m proud to say that Bayshore Retreat was one of if not the first to start this modality of care. Anyway, if you or a loved one need some help, call my mom. If you don’t know anyone who needs help, congratulations. You’re a rare and lucky individual.

850-687-6831

www.bayshoreretreat.com Destin, FL Healing water front setting Licensed & court approved

food

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Photo special to the Journal

22 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

Enjoying last years wine event at the zoo are Sue DeBrecht, from Emmet O’Neal and Darwin Metcalf from Western Market.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Feeding Time at the Zoo: Western’s Wine and Food Event Is Sept. 30

Go Greek: Preparing for Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral’s 44th annual Greek Festival are, above, from left: Stephanie Dikis, Sue Graphos, Penny Gilmore, Alecia White and Michelle Gilbert. Below, Rose Maria Thomason and Pete Graphos.

It’s All Greek Annual Festival at Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Celebrates Food, Culture

By Donna Cornelius It’s a few weeks before Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral’s 44th annual Greek Festival, and the church’s banquet hall is buzzing.

Women wearing aprons and gloves have gathered for one of several cooking sessions to prepare food for the festival. On this day, they’re making pastichio, a lasagna-style dish that’s always one of the event’s most popular foods. Ten stand mixers are whirling away, a table is full of containers holding the 100 dozen eggs that had to be cracked for the recipe, and pots full of pasta are bubbling away in the kitchen.

Lots of laughter is mixed into the cooking session, too.

“The festival is something that brings us together in a different way than going to church,” said Helen Bekrakis, a church member who was involved with the event in its early days. “Everyone works a lot of hours, but what

you see is that commitment, the expressions on the workers’ faces, that feeling of giving.”

This year’s three-day Greek extravaganza is set for Sept. 15-17 at the downtown Birmingham church. The church’s Ladies Philoptochos Society officially started the festival in 1972, but the seeds for the event were planted about 60 years ago, Bekrakis said.

“It wasn’t really a festival at first but more a community thing,” she said. “People heard about us selling baklava, and they’d come by to pick some up. We started slowly, and it just grew and grew and grew.”

Those who attend the festival can take guided tours of the church, hear Greek musicians, see Greek dancing by the church’s young people, and shop for souvenirs at the Greek Market Place. But the headliner of the event is the food.

“A lot of Greek churches all across the country do these festivals, but what sets ours apart is the quality of the food,” said Pete Lafakis, this year’s festival chairman. “Ours is homemade.”

Becky Kampakis, who’s in charge of the pas-

piggly wiggly

®

Gril

k a e t S er t t e B la

Western’s 27th annual Wine and Food event is set for 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 30 at the Birmingham Zoo. All proceeds will benefit the Emmet O’Neal Library, Birmingham Zoo, East Lake Initiative and Junior League Culinary of Birmingham.

Community News and There will be 650 wines Events to taste and food from 35 Birmingham vendors. Members of Western’s staff will serve dishes that showcase some of the best local food products.

The event also includes a free souvenir Govino glass, raffle prizes, animals and carousel rides.

For more information, visit westernsupermarkets. com.

Keeping It Local: Breakin’ Bread Spotlights Birmingham Food Scene

tichio and pastry cooking, is “a perfectionist,” Lafakis said.

“For the pastichio, we use a special noodle that you can’t just buy off the shelf, and our ground chuck is the best quality,” he said. “We make close to 20,000 pieces of baklava alone.”

The festival in recent years has added takeout and drive-through options. There’s just one menu item that’s not available for take-outs: loukoumathes, which are Greek doughnuts fried on site, dipped in warm honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. That’s because the treats are

Many of Birmingham’s brightest culinary talents will participate in Breakin’ Bread 2016, the Local Flavor Festival.

Presented by the Birmingham Originals, the festival is from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 25 at Sloss Furnaces.

This year’s event again will feature unlimited food sampling, craft beer and wine, a kids’ zone and a live cooking competition. Also included will be musical entertainment, tasting seminars and a showcase of Alabama craft brews. VIP guests get unlimited beverages, access to lounge areas and gift bags.

Established in 2003, Breakin’ Bread has been named one of the signature experiences for the Year of Alabama Food by the Alabama Board of Tourism.

General admission is $35. VIP tickets are $99.

There’s no charge for ages 12 and younger.

For tickets and more information, visit birminghamoriginals.org.

See greek, page 24

www.pigbham.com The Certified Angus Beef® brand is a cut above USDA Prime, Choice and Select.

Ten quality standards set the brand apart.

It’s abundantly flavorful, incredible tender, naturally juicy. Piggly Wiggly is the only grocery store in the area with Certified Angus Beef. Taste the Difference!

See food news, page 24

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

food

Tailgates in Good Taste

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 23

Keep Your Game Day Get-Togethers Simply Delicious With These Dishes and Drinks

By Donna Cornelius

Vanilla Bean Lemonade

Ingredients: 4 ½ cups fresh lemon juice (about 24 lemons), strained 2 cups hot water 4 cups cold water 1 ½ cups sugar 2 vanilla bean pods, sliced in half lengthwise 2 lemons, sliced

Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Ingredients: 8-inch or 10-inch flour tortillas (You’ll need about 6 tortillas, depending on how full you want to stuff them.)

Meat from 1 whole roasted chicken, chopped or shredded 2 cups mayonnaise 4 tablespoons hot sauce or buffalo sauce Salt and pepper Lettuce Tomato Directions: Mix mayo with hot sauce, salt and pepper.

To assemble, lay out lettuce and tomato. Toss chicken in sauce mixture and place on top of lettuce. Roll up the wraps and go.

Cook’s notes: These can be made the day before. You also can just use the chicken salad by itself or serve it with grilled flatbreads or flour tortillas.

Green Tomato and Cucumber Salsa Ingredients: 3 green tomatoes 1 seedless cucumber ½ red pepper 3 tablespoons sugar 1 cup red wine vinegar Juice of 2 limes Salt and pepper Directions: Dice all vegetables. Add sugar, vinegar, lime juice, salt and pepper.

Cook’s note: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier salsa.

Corn and Collard Green Slaw

Ingredients: 6 cobs of corn ½ bag of collard greens 2-3 cups mayonnaise 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup red wine vinegar Salt and pepper

Directions: Grill the corn and cut off cob. Cut collard greens into thin strips.

Mix mayo and other ingredients.

Combine all and let sit overnight.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

In this part of the country, college football game days are stressful enough without fretting over what to serve to hungry tailgaters.

You can put all your efforts into worrying about your favorite team with these crowd-pleasing recipes from Jefferson State Community College’s Culinary and Hospitality Institute.

Chef Todd Jackson, who put together a deliciously simple pregame menu, has been an instructor in the program since 2002.

“In high school, I worked at a barbecue restaurant,” he said. “I went to Auburn to study engineering, but that math thing got in the way.”

He returned to Birmingham, his hometown, and enrolled in Jefferson State’s culinary program, graduating in 1993. He was the dining room manager and executive chef for Regions Bank before joining the institute’s faculty in 2002.

Jackson shared some tailgating tips: • Pick up a roasted chicken (or two) from the grocery store. The ready-made versions are tasty and easier than roasting your own birds.

• Serve salsas and dips with flour tortillas. Put the tortillas on the grill for a few minutes, let them cool and then put them in plastic zip bags.

• For a pretty platter of food, buy salami or other sliced meats from the supermarket deli. Add feta cheese and tomatoes and top with your favorite salad dressing.

• You can put together wraps the night before and refrigerate them as long as the ingredients don’t have too much liquid.

• Put everything in plastic zip bags for easy transport. The bags don’t take up much room in coolers, either.

Chef Kenneth Moore, the institute’s director of purchasing and catering, said he thought drinks for tailgates should be light and refreshing.

“The Vanilla Bean Lemonade is one of my personal favorites,” said Moore, who’s also an instructor in the program. “And I love incorporating fresh herbs and simple syrups into drinks.”

As another stress-relieving tactic, gin or vodka can be incorporated into any of the drinks.

The institute offers four degree options: culinary apprentice, hospitality management, food service/ culinary management, and baking and pastry. Culinary students operate Bistro proVare, a fully-functioning “classroom café” that’s open to the public during the fall and spring from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The institute is at Jefferson State’s Shelby-Hoover Campus, 4600 Valleydale Road.

For more information about the program and the bistro, visit jeffersonstate.edu.

sugar is dissolved.

Add cold water and blackberry puree.

Allow to rest for at least an hour.

Serve over ice with lemon slices.

Makes 10 8-ounce servings.

Showing off their spirited spread are, from left: Jefferson State students Brian Duffett and Travis Remington and culinary instructor Todd Jackson.

Blackberry Lemonade

Strawberry Crescent Rolls

Ingredients: 1 can crescent rolls 1 jar strawberry preserves Honey

Directions: Lay out rolls and spread a thin layer of preserves on top. Roll them up and bake according to the instructions on the can. After they’re baked, drizzle a small amount of honey on top.

Ingredients: 4 ½ cups fresh lemon juice (about 24 lemons), strained 2 cups hot water 4 cups cold water 1 ½ cups sugar 1 to 2 pints blackberries, pureed 2 lemons, sliced

Directions: Juice the lemons, making sure to strain out the seeds.

Combine vanilla bean pods, lemon juice, hot water and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add the cold water.

Allow to rest for at least an hour.

Remove vanilla pods and serve over ice with lemon slices. Makes 10 8-ounce servings.

Vanilla Bean Lemonade, Blackberry Lemonade and Broken Clock.

Directions: Juice the lemons, making sure to strain out the seeds.

Combine lemon juice, hot water and sugar. Stir until

Broken Clock (or A Clockwork Orange)

Ingredients: 3 cups orange juice 2 cups pineapple juice 4 to 6 ounces vodka or gin 2 cups thyme simple syrup (2 cups granulated sugar, 2 cups water and 5 sprigs of fresh thyme) 5 orange slices and thyme sprigs for garnish

Directions: Make the simple syrup. Combine sugar and water in a boiler and bring to a simmer. Add the thyme sprigs.

Remove from heat and allow to steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove thyme sprigs.

Combine the orange juice, simple syrup and pineapple juice. Allow to rest for at least an hour.

Put vodka or gin and juice mixture into a shaker over ice.

Pour into individual glasses and garnish each with an orange slice and fresh thyme sprigs. Makes nine 6-ounce servings.

Patio Seating all Spring and Summer!

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24 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

food/schools

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Creative Montessori Completes Homewood Campus Renovations

food news, From page 22

New Place for Pizza: IronStone Pizzaworks Set to Open in Vestavia Hills

IronStone Pizzaworks, a new concept for self-designed pizzas and salads, will open its flagship restaurant in the Vestavia Hills City Center this month.

IronStone, which focuses on quality ingredients and a hearth-fired oven, serves handcrafted pizzas and customizable salads in an upscale atmosphere. The new fast-casual concept offers both build-your-own and signature menu items, which company officials said were created through extensive tasting research.

“We are excited to open our first IronStone location in the Iron City,” said Bill McPherson, IronStone president.

“Birmingham is a thriving city, especially in the restaurant industry, and we are thrilled to be a part of its growth by serving the community great food in an inviting environment.”

greek,

From page 22

best eaten fresh.

“There’s a line for them all the time,” Bekrakis said.

Also on the menu are appetizers such as pitas and stuffed grape leaves, called dolmathes. Entrée choices include a deluxe plate with Greekstyle chicken served with pastichio,

“When I founded the school in 1968, I never would have imagined the school would have grown from 18 students in a church basement to nearly 250 students in a purpose-built school,” said CMS founder Barbara R. Spitzer. “I am thrilled that with the new building CMS is able to serve more students through Montessori method, which allows students to grow at his or her pace.”

Other renovations included updates to the interior elementary building such as waterproofing, painting, flooring, lighting and acoustics.

Phase II is slated to begin in the next three to five years and will include replacing the school’s gym. In the meantime, the school will focus on landscaping and maintenance of its recreational field.

—Emily Williams

With pizza dough made from scratch daily, IronStone freshly roasts meats and vegetable toppings and uses artisanal cooking techniques.

The restaurant’s ironclad oven with a stone hearth is at the center of an open kitchen that allows customers to see their custom creations being prepared.

IronStone can seat about 82 people inside the restaurant and 24 people outside. The restaurant will be open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. It’s at 632 Montgomery Highway.

For more information, visit ironstonepizza.com.

How Sweet It Is: Brews Event Benefits Ronald McDonald House

The Junior Board of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama will host the second annual Sweet Home Brews event from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sept. 30 at SideBar in Lakeview.

This year, there’s a new addition: a Firkin Fest. Firkins are small barrels that, in this case, will be filled with beer.

rice pilaf, savory pastries called spanakopita and tiropita, Greek salad and a roll. Other options are souvlakia – marinated lamb grilled over an open fire – plus veggie plates, gyros and Greek salad.

On the sweet side are traditional and chocolate baklava, Greek wedding cookies called kourambethes, almond crescents and other treats.

Lafakis said the festival always

S

CI PE

ALIZING

Ten breweries are on board for the event.

Tickets are $25 for an individual or $40 for a pair. All proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama. For tickets or more information, visit rmhca.org.

SideBar is at 2929 Seventh Ave. S. in Birmingham.

Middle Eastern Flavor: Saint George Melkite Plans 35th Annual Festival

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chicken. A selection of vegetarian foods includes spinach pies, falafel and hummus. A wide variety of pastries and cakes will be available at the festival’s sweet booth.

Vendors will have handcrafted olive wood from the Holy Land, Byzantine icons and literature, glass jewelry made from the church’s original stained glass and St. George’s Middle Eastern food cookbook, “Our Favorite Recipes.”

Proceeds will benefit Birminghamarea charities and church maintenance.

The church is at 425 16th Ave. S. in Birmingham. Admission is free. For more information, visit saintgeorgeonline.org.

Saint George Melkite Catholic Church will host its 35th annual Middle Eastern Food Festival Sept. 8-10.

The festival features homemade Middle Eastern food, music, dancing and church tours.

Food will be served each day from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Downtown delivery will be available for lunch Thursday and Friday with a $75 minimum order. For takeout and delivery, call 492-9621. A drive-through service will operate until 7 p.m. each day.

The menu includes kibbee, rolled grape leaves and Mediterranean-style

One of Birmingham’s hottest districts continues to grow with the addition of a new restaurant concept.

Cosecha Urban Kitchen, which will put a gourmet spin on Latin street food, is expected to open in October in the LIV Parkside development at 1701 First

draws a crowd.

“We may have over 25,000 plates of food we serve over three days,” he said.

The church strives to make the festival user-friendly.

“We try to keep our pricing reasonable,” Lafakis said. “A lot of festivals charge admission. We don’t do that, and we give people free parking, too. We try to be as hospitable as we can be.”

During the festival, the section of 19th Street on which the church is located is closed to traffic, he said.

“We have tables with well over 1,000 seats set up inside and outside,” Lafakis said.

The event has a charitable as well as a culinary and cultural purpose.

“We give scholarship assistance

to our kids and also give to numerous charities,” said Chum Atkins, a Philoptochos Society member. “Last year, we gave more than $35,000 to scholarships and donations.”

While society members do almost all the pre-festival baking, the entire church participates in the annual event. Lafakis said hundreds of volunteers pitch in. Even the youngest members of the church can take part in the Greek dancing.

Bekrakis has “retired” from active festival duty but was at the pastichio cooking session to offer her support and enjoy the fun. She brought along her daughter, Alycia White.

“Alycia danced in the festival when she was little and helped with it up through her college years,”

IN

Convertible Tops Sunroofs Leather Interiors

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Creative Montessori School officials gathered Sept. 1 to celebrate the completion of phase I of the school’s three-part campus renovation plan in Homewood.

The school began the $4.5 million renovations Dec. 3, 2015, following a capital campaign that raised $2.35 million.

“This project would not have been possible without the support of former and current CMS families and their dedication to the Montessori method,” said CMS Director Greg Smith.

In phase I, the existing preschool building was replaced with classrooms that accommodate more students. The preschool is CMS’ largest program, and increasing the capacity allows the school to reduce the waiting list.

From left, front: Greg Smith, director; Barbara Spitzer, CMS founder; Brooke Coleman, CMS parent/ campaign chair; Lewis Chitwood, CMS parent/board president

Uptown Street Food: Cosecha Urban Kitchen Will Have Latin Flavor

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Ave. S. in Birmingham. Justin White and John Green are the owners.

“I have a passion for Latin food, and this menu is a collection of the best recipes we have collected from all over,” said White, who’s also a chef. “We wanted to make these recipes the way you would find when you travel.”

The upscale street food will include gourmet hotdogs and Cuban sandwiches.

“We also have a plantain bread pudding that is as Deep South as you can get,” White said.

Food will be served on eco-friendly paper products so diners can easily get their meals to go. The restaurant will have a full bar with a local flair, including its own version of the Moscow Mule with Southern whiskey and spicy ginger ale.

Have news to share about food-related events, restaurants – even favorite recipes? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch by emailing Donna Cornelius at donnawcornelius@bellsouth.net.

Bekrakis said. “This is something that’s passed down from generation to generation.”

One of the other volunteers this year isn’t even a church member. Penny Gilmore said she got involved after attending a Greek cookie-making demonstration at the Homewood Senior Center.

“I love to cook, and I love to bake, and I just wanted to come and help,” Gilmore said. “These are wonderful ladies.”

Between the cooking and baking sessions, the extensive planning and the long hours needed to run the three-day event, the Greek Festival is not a simple production.

“People will say, ‘Oh, it’s so much work,’” Bekrakis said. “But nobody is willing to give it up.”

The 44th annual Birmingham Greek Festival is Sept. 15-17 at Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 307 19th St. S. in Birmingham. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. There’s no admission charge. Free parking is available in the old Liberty National building on Third Avenue and 20th Street South. For more information, visit bhamgreekfestival.com or follow the festival on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 25

schools

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Photos by Juan Rodriguez Photography

Report Names OTM Schools Among Top Four in Alabama

Left, Rising Design Star winners, from left, Brooke Lindsey of Vestavia Hills, Kathryn Sours of Mountain Brook with her dress model and Rigdon Hendrix of Homewood. Above, Vestavia Hills High School graduate Savannah Flowers was named the 2016 Model winner at this year’s Birmingham Fashion Week.

OTM Students Win Big at Birmingham Fashion Week

By Emily Williams Students from Over the Mountain schools graced the catwalk for the Rising Star Design competition at Birmingham Fashion Week Aug. 25-27.

Of four winners chosen from 60 contestants, three hail from the Over the Mountain area.

Mountain Brook High School’s Kathryn Sours, Vestavia Hills High School’s Brooke Lindsey and Homewood High School’s Rigdon Hendrix each placed in the competition, receiving a $1,500 per year scholarship from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

For the competition, each student was asked to design an outfit that represents their interpretation of what fashion will look like a century into the future.

Without sewing or using fabric, they created garments using alternative and recyclable materials.

“My design is a classic gown with a very futuristic

twist,” said Lindsey. “The gown is very elegant but at the same time pushes fashion boundaries.”

She hand-painted orchids that cover the bodice of the dress and incorporated them into the skirt of the dress along with shards of broken CDs. “This dress has lines that I could see into style in the next 20-30 years at the Oscars, Emmys or Met Gala,” Lindsey added.

Sours’ design was inspired by holograms. She used hot glue, staples and regular glue to layer iridescent cellophane to her dress form.

Hendrix created a set with asymmetrical skirt and a bandeau top accessorized with a circular hood that framed the face.

“As we move toward a more digital age, both children and adults alike feel an obligation to participate in the abyss of social media,” Hendrix said. “This creates a broadcasting of different shards of one’s life while keeping their true personality hidden under a

hood.”

At the conclusion of the three-night event, founders Heidi Elnora and Jeana Lee Thompson announced that this year’s Birmingham Fashion Week could be the last. Due to the growth of the event, the staff of volunteers can no longer accommodate the work load.

Elnora and Thompson said they will try to raise the funds necessary to hire a staff, but if they can’t this will be the last year of the event. ❖ Correction: Chloe Miller of Homewood should have been included in the list of Rising Design Star semifinalists from the Over the Mountain area that was published in the Aug. 25 issue.

Photo special to the Journal

Photo special to the Journal

school spirit

Spain Park Varsity Cheer

Members of the 2016-17 Vestavia varsity cheerleading squad are: Sarah Bagby, Casanova Alexandra, Couch McKenzie, Reese Gwin, Sara Haynes, Joanna Hotten, Julianne Howard, Gaines Jackson, Abby Mashburn, Laney Moers, Caroline Parker, Shelby Patterson, Millie Puglia, Mary Cate Saville, Kate Strange, Caroline Sumner, McKenzie Tipton, Kennan Trowbridge, Mary Kate Vice and Ivey Wimberly.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

Members of the 2016-17 Spain Park varsity cheerleading squad are, from left, front: Megan Baker, Carolena Miller, Lauren Plaia, Mackenzie Stewart, Lina Zaharias and Mary Grace Thompson. Middle: Claire Key, Mimi Martens, Eve Brune, Brennen Cooke, Ann Odom, Mary Carson Collins and Sarah Reed Stacey. Back: Lauren Nicholas, Madelyne Vinson, Morgan Lambert and Halle Hoagland.

Vestavia Varsity Cheer

A report released in August from the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama listed Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills city schools among the top four highest-performing school systems in Alabama.

The report ranked Mountain Brook schools number one, Vestavia Hills number two and Homewood number four.

The report, “Exceeding Expectations: Keys to Alabama’s Student Success,” analyzed student success through college readiness and test scores against enrollment numbers, staff salaries and spending per student.

“The findings of this report point to the ongoing commitment to excellence in education by our faculty, staff, and community,” Vestavia Hills Superintendent Dr. Sheila Phillips said in a released statement. “We know that we can accomplish great things when we come together as a community and work with the singular purpose of providing our children the very best education possible.”

VHCSF Welcomes New Executive Director The Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation recently announced that Elaine Yancey has joined the staff as executive director.

“I am proud to be a part of the VHCSF during this important time of our history in celebrating our 20th anniversary and welcoming (Yancey),” said VHCSF board President Janet Ball. “I look forward to working with (Yancey) and seeing the great things the foundation will be doing in the future for Vestavia’s children and our schools.”

For the past 16 years, Yancey has served as vice president of operations and business development for the McWane Science Center. During her tenure with the museum, Yancey was credited as being instrumental in increasing profit from existing sources as well as developing new business enterprises that have continued contributing to the organization’s success.

Yancey is a graduate of Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia, where she received a degree in communications.

“As the parent of two children being educated in public schools I know firsthand that there is simply not enough funding to support all of the needs of teachers, administrators and students.

The Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation is a strong organization who has the support of an active board and community. I feel honored to be chosen for this role and look forward to being a part of the future success of the foundation and school system,” Yancey said in a released statement. ❖

We’ve Got Spirit!

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.

26 • Thursday, September 8, 2016

sports

By Lee Davis

Portera Hopes To Leave Hoover With Title morgan, From page 28

“The first thing is that it’s a 5-kilometer race, so you’ve got to be ready for the long haul,” she explained. “You also know that you’re going to be hurting before it’s over, so you have to be determined to finish no matter what happens.”

Another wild card is unpredictability.

“You never know what you might see,” she said. “I’m not concerned about animal life. About the only thing I’ve ever seen is a chipmunk. But if you put your foot in the wrong place, you could come up with a sprained ankle. Or it’s easy to get something in your shoe. There are a lot of factors you don’t get with running on a standard track.”

As is the case with many runners, Morgan believes mental toughness is an important factor in being successful.

“Honestly, I forget what I’m thinking about in most races,” she said. “I try to relax and keep pushing. If I’m struggling in a race, I try to think about all the other girls and how they are experiencing the same pain as me and depending on me as I’m depending on them. It’s much easier to run harder knowing you have to run well for your team.”

Morgan was a major contributor to last year’s championship, finishing a strong fifth in the state meet as then-teammate Frances Patrick took first place honors. She’d like to do even better in her senior season.

“It would be great to finish in the top three, but of course the goal is to win,” she said. “The most important thing is for the team to repeat as state champions.”

Her breakout race came in the Chickasaw

In Olivia Portera’s four years at Hoover, the Lady Bucs have become one of Alabama’s top Class 7A volleyball programs.

For all their success, however, there’s still one threshold the team hasn’t crossed. It hasn’t put a blue state championship trophy in the school’s hardware case.

Hoover came close in 2015. The Lady Bucs fell to McGill-Toolen in the Elite Eight semi-finals, just one round short of the title. For Portera, an All-Over-the-Mountain libero, getting close isn’t quite good enough as her senior year begins.

“Last year’s season didn’t end as we’d planned,” she said. “But there is tremendous momentum carrying over because of the talent and chemistry of our team. We’ve never won a state championship but we’ve been so close. We have a chance to do something that’s never been done at Hoover before.”

The Lady Bucs are off to a 7-4 start against one of Alabama’s toughest schedules, including a victory over defending state champion Mountain Brook.

“We are focusing on the little things,” Portera said. “Some of our team goals are to stay positive at all times and do the technical things correctly. Most importantly, we want to keep the bond that holds us together.”

Of course, Portera is far from a one-girl show. The other Lady Buc contributors include Spencer Downs, Nora Webster, Paige Shaw, Kyra Hunter, Maya Jones, Kasia Hunter, Brayden Williams, Anna Marie Auchmuty, MacKenzie Martin and Caroline Raybon.

Portera returns for her senior year with impressive numbers. Last season, she produced 85 aces and a whopping 499 digs. She’s off to a strong start in 2016 as well, although her primary personal goals have little to do with statistics.

“I want to be the leader under all circumstances,” she said. “If a teammate isn’t having her best game, I have to be the one to look her in the face and keep her positive. If the team is down as a whole, I have to find the right thing to say.”

Spectators at Hoover’s games notice Portera’s presence immediately, as she is constantly cheering and exhorting her teammates.

“I have to be loud and vocal every second of the game,” she explained. “I’m the one who is screaming and cheering after everything we do. Off the court I strive to be that same leader by staying on top of my grades and socially by doing the right things and staying out of trouble.”

Her ability to serve and receive may be Portera’s strongest point, but she knows there is always room for improvement. “I’m good at

Trails run last season, where Morgan’s performance produced another fifth place finish.

“I was running with a pack and then suddenly there were only two people in front of me,” she recalled. “It was the best I’d done in a huge race like that and it set a great precedent for the rest of the season.”

McGovern thinks Morgan’s experience and work ethic are keys to her success.

“With four years of varsity experience, Anna Grace has an immeasurable amount of firsthand knowledge to draw on,” he said. “She is one of the most mature runners I’ve had the opportunity to coach. She is an incredibly smart racer and is willing to push past her limits in practice. I’m expecting her to have a good year.”

Morgan began running for fun in the sixth grade and moved on to competitive running by junior high school. She admits that her sister’s influence played a role in her choice.

“Madeline certainly didn’t pressure me to go out for the track team, but I know she was pleased when I made the decision to do it,” she recalled. “Ever since then, she has been a true mentor to me. Madeline has never told me what to do, but she’s always been there to answer my questions and help me any way she can.”

While Morgan’s thoughts are focused on her senior season, she admits that the idea of competing at the next level is attractive to her.

“I think I’d like to run in college, but time will tell,” she said. “The main thing now is to make sure Mountain Brook keeps winning.”

If Mountain Brook wins that mind-boggling 14th consecutive blue trophy, it probably means Anna Grace Morgan avoided the gravel. ❖

Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry

Final Volley

Journal file photo by Mark Almond

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

‘I was running with a pack and then suddenly there were only two people in front of me.’

Anna Grace Morgan, on her breakout race in the Chickasaw Trails run last season.

tracking the ball and reading seams of blocks,” she explained. “I’m not very strong with my upper body so when balls come to me I have to use my hands. And as the fans can see, another strong part of my game is cheering.”

Portera credits Hoover coach Chris Camper for much of her development as a player. “Playing for Coach Camper is an honor,” she said.

“He taught me new skills on the court, how to lead and to understand exactly what kind of player I am.”

One reason for Portera’s close connection with her coach could be their similar emotion and intensity. “Coach Camper is very intense during a game,” she said. “Sometimes players from other teams tell me that they are scared of him. I have to disagree. Coach Camper demands a lot and we know he loves us and always wants us to be our best. I wouldn’t trade the bond that we have for anything.”

Portera said a match against Grissom in the state super regionals during her freshman season may have been her turning point as a player.

“We beat Grissom in five sets and it was a great experience for me,” she recalled. “The entire match was a fight which had intensity, fear and many more emotions. Having the opportunity to play in a match like that at such a young age gave me a feel for the nerves and pressure that comes with the knowledge that the entire season is on the line. That game is a reason why I don’t really get nervous in the playoffs anymore because I’ve become accustomed to the pressure.”

Portera, who grew up in Pleasant Grove, began playing volleyball in third grade almost by chance. She was attending Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School in Homewood when she first became acquainted with the sport. “In Catholic school you can start playing sports in third grade,” she recalled. “I signed up for volleyball only because all my friends were signing up for it. I couldn’t have known then that I would fall in love with the game.”

The luck of the draw may have introduced Portera to volleyball, but her future is set. She has already committed to play at Jacksonville State University next year. “I couldn’t be more excited to have the opportunity to continue to play volleyball for the next four years,” she said. “I’ll be focused on volleyball and school and then pursue nursing from there.”

Whether or not Hoover wins a state title, Portera said she’d be grateful for the experiences that have come from volleyball. “I can’t wait to see where God leads me,” she said. “Playing volleyball has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life and I could not be more thankful for the friends it has brought me and the opportunities that have come.”

And that’s a prize even sweeter than a blue trophy. ❖

Vestavia Hills 10-Year-Old Scores National Fencing Championship

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

Michael Rogers makes a play in Spain Park’s 35-18 win over Muscle Shoals on Aug. 26.

ca tch more coverage

otmjsports.com

twins,

From page 28

mad, but then everybody laughed about it.”

The football field and the classroom aren’t the only places where the Edwardses make others see double.

They also star in wrestling and lacrosse. Any guess what topics dominate the dinner table conversation at the Edwards household?

“We talk sports a lot,” Jacob said.

“Mainly we try to support and help each other as much as we can.”

Being twins can be great fun, but both the Edwards brothers are serious about their final season of football at Vestavia.

“We had a good team (9-3) last year,” James said. “But we want to step it up this year and go further in the playoffs. We’ve got some good

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

as young children, but begin to look different by the time they are teenagers. That’s not the case for the Edwards brothers.

“We looked a lot alike when we were little, and most people still think we do,” James said. “I guess we always will look almost the same.”

There was a time when James and Jacobs weren’t above using their looks to pull school pranks. During their freshman year, they actually swapped classes.

“We got caught doing it in a freshman math class,” James said, laughing. “At first the teacher was pretty

Thursday, September 8, 2016 • 27

sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Jacob Edwards brings down Homewood quarterback Larkin Williams.

A 10-year-old Vestavia Hills foil fencer went undefeated at the 2016 Summer National Fencing Championships in Dallas in July.

Andrew Chen was one of 20 young fencers from the Birmingham Fencing Club who competed with thousands of other fencers from around the country to take the national championship.

After beating all 6 opponents in qualifying pools, Andrew moved into the direct elimination rounds. During a close bout to reach the semifinals, Andrew and his opponent tied at 7:7 before time ran out. The win depended on the first fencer to score in a one-minute overtime period. Andrew pretended to take a defensive position, drawing his opponent closer, before scoring with a lightning fast attack to win the bout and advance to the finals.

Allen Chen, Andrew’s twin brother, also fences with the Birmingham Fencing Club and has advanced to the top eight in other national tournaments.

The twins have been fencing for three and half years under the instruction of coaches Yuanjing Wang, Hongyun Sun and Rylan DeLap. Andrew and Allen are fourth-graders at Vestavia Hill Elementary Central.

Nearly 100 fencers train at the Birmingham Fencing Club, either for the exercise, the friendships or the competition. For more information about the club, contact David Arias at 5153902 or arias@fencingclub.org, or visit www.fencingclub.org. ❖ ❖

players on this team and if we work hard, we can do it.”

Anderson may be in his 39th season as head coach of the Rebels, but Jacob said the coach relates to

‘The fact we both play in the defensive line adds to why people can’t tell us apart. If one of us was a quarterback, it might not be as bad.’

Jacob Edwards

his players today as well as he did decades ago.

“Coach Anderson is truly a player’s coach,” he said. “He always looks out for us. We know he’s going to have our backs, regardless of what happens.”

Both of the Edwards brothers hope for an opportunity to play football or lacrosse following graduation this spring.

“We’d be happy to play either one,” James said. “We’re just going to try to have a good senior year and see what happens.”

In the meantime, both brothers are savoring their senior years of high school.

“It’s really flown by,” Jacob said.

“I can’t really believe we’re almost at the end.”

James and Jacobs Edwards’ high school careers may be drawing to a close, but the fun of being twins is probably just beginning. ❖

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Sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, September 8, 2016

Final Volley: Portera Hopes To Leave Hoover With Title Page 26 lee davis

Sister Run

Double Plays

Morgan Hopes to Keep Spartan CrossCountry Rolling

Rebel Twins Confuse Even Their Coaches

Jacob Edwards are good at keeping people confused. Even on the practice field, the coaches aren’t sure which of the Edwards brothers they are working with at a particular moment.

“It happens all the time,” said James, who is the older sibling by 47 minutes. “People always are confusing us. When the coaches aren’t sure, they just call us ‘Edwards.’”

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Double Down: Senior Rebel defensive linemen Jacob (76), and James (65), Edwards are leaders in a highly touted unit that held Homewood to only three points in the season opener. Below, James works to get by Homewood’s S. J. Ramsey.

Region 3 Also adding to the potenBy Lee Davis showdowns tial for a mix-up is their both For coverage of Mountain Brook playing in the defensive line Through the years, Vestavia Hills football coach at Hoover and for Vestavia. James plays end; Buddy Anderson and his staff have been pretty sucVestavia at Jacob is a tackle. Both are cessful at figuring things out on the football field.

Spain Park visit leaders in a highly touted unit But senior Rebel defensive linemen James and otmjsports.com

that held powerful Homewood to only three points in the season opener.

“The fact we both play in the defensive line adds to why people can’t tell us apart,” Jacob said.

“If one of us was a quarterback, it might not be as bad.”

Some identical twins look almost exactly alike

See twins, page 27

Nobody has to tell Anna Grace Morgan about the spectacular history of the Mountain Brook girls cross-country team.

She has it in her bloodline.

Morgan’s older sister Madeline was a standout runner for the Lady Spartans a decade ago. The elder Morgan was named Over the Mountain Athlete of the Year and earned a running scholarship to Duke University. Anna Grace is following the tradition as Mountain Brook seeks its 14th consecutive state championship – a streak of domination that is unprecedented in Alabama high school athletics.

“One reason I think we’ve been so successful is continuity,” Morgan said. “So many of us ran under (former) Coach (Greg) Echols and continued under Coach (Michael) McGovern. We’re a really close-knit group that understands what it takes to be successful in cross-country. And none of us want to be a part of the team that ends the winning streak.”

Morgan – who also runs indoor and outdoor varsity track – is a true believer in the total experience of cross-country running.

“It’s all so enjoyable for me,” she said. “The beautiful scenery and being out in nature makes it so special, as opposed to running in circles such as on a track.”

There’s only one negative to crosscountry running in Morgan’s mind. “I really don’t like running on gravel,” she said, laughing The successful cross-country runner is a different breed, according to Morgan.

See Morgan, page 26

The Southern Living Idea House is now our house.

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.

Experience Mt Laurel at our Annual Fall Festival Saturday, October 15th, 11 am – 4 pm mtlaurel.com

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8/19/16 8:00 AM