Aug. 26 Over the Mountain Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY AUGUST 26, 2010

The Rotaract Club of Birmingham will host its second annual Hack-It Classic Aug. 28 at Highland Park Golf Course. See About Town, page 7.

The Dog Days of Summer

Don’t expect any sob stories from Gia Rabito.

She may be a Hurricane Katrina evacuee, but for her the story of the storm has a happy ending.

See Life, page 10.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

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The Over the Mountain area celebrated the last days of summer with four-legged friends. Top, Morgan Cooke gives her dog, Maggie, a hug while Chloe watches on at Crestline’s Dawg Daze. Also enjoying Dawg Daze was Charles Oliver, bottom, right, with his dog, Cody. At Picasso Pets, bottom, left, Beth Fuller shows off her dog, Rosie, to Kris and Sydney Cross. For more on Picasso Pets see Social, page 12. For more on Dawg Daze go to otmj.com.

High school football kicks off this week!

See 24-page pull-out special section inside.

2 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

CONTENTS/OPINION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MURPHY’S LAW

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Brent Howell makes it big with his classic clothing line, page 21. Go to www.otmj.com to get tips from Brent on how to dress with Southern style. Check out this year’s fall fashion trends from local retailers, page 20.

OTMJ.COM C P

heck out more pictures from our social events and submit us yours.

lan your weekend with our events calendar. We have even more OTM happenings on our Web site. Don’t see your event listed? Send it to us and we’ll put it on our events calendar.

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heck out our brides and brides-to-be in full color. Or send us your good news. Wedding and engagement forms are on our Web site under “Issues, Forms & Info.”

Also, stay tuned for a new way to share your wedding news with our otmj.com readers.

T

ell us what you think. Sign up on our Web site amd comment on the stories and news you see. We want to know what you think.

In our next issue, a Mountain Brook World War II veteran returns to Normandy and England with his family. Plus a look at the local arts scene.

F E AT U R E S ABOUT TOWN PEOPLE LIFE SOCIAL

4 8 10 12

FASHION WEDDINGS SCHOOLS SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

20 22 24 28

August 26, 2010

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Laura McAlister Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Bones Long, Cary Estes, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Vol. 18, No. 16

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to more than 40,000 households in the Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Hot Property is a paid advertisement. 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 ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2010 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.

A Season of Hope

Looking back, I don’t know why we did this. It was hen my daughthe same show every week, home or away. Of course, ters were in high it was the only shot freshman parents got to hear their school, autumn children play at all, because during home games, they Friday nights were spent at were cloistered in the concession stand selling sodas and the football field. Harold and I weren’t official athletic hot dogs to pay for the band’s end-of-the-year trip to boosters, our girls not having Orlando.

But I can’t complain. Band parents had it easy. We the height, weight or gender to secure a middle linebacker hoped our child wouldn’t hit a sour note or march in the wrong direction. Players’ parents stood by hoping their position, so we became boosters of the boosters, sup- sons wouldn’t break a bone.

And here we are, ready to start another season. So, port people for the marching Susan Murphy as parents, band and otherwise, gather in the stands once band. again, I send out a few hopes of my own.

We had endured painful I hope you aren’t everyone’s grade school band concerts, years homecoming game. When they of off-key practice sessions in our have a parade on the line, schools living room, so we were thrilled tend to line up a team they think when our children joined a group What we didn’t think of they can handily beat, so I hope that would play, not only outside, was that, if the girls were your away games are not filled but much farther away. What we with crepe paper floats and the didn’t think of was that, if the marching, we would crowning of somebody else’s girls were marching, we would be marching too, toting queen. be marching too, toting flutes and I hope the kicker makes every French horns to football stadiums flutes and French horns field goal and extra point. On conference-wide. to football stadiums both teams. I can’t help but feel Away games are a challenge. sorry for that poor kid out there You’re coming as an interloper, conference-wide. all by himself in front of the an agent for the opposing team, so entire school. High school is hard your bleachers are always situated enough without being the reason windward without benefit of cover your team doesn’t win the chamfrom the elements. One particularpionship. Or the homecoming game. ly bad field positioned the visitors’ stands directly over a I hope it doesn’t rain. It’s supposedly manly to play swamp. We spent the entire game swatting giant Mothra mosquitoes and were grateful when halftime came so we in the muck and mire, but sitting in the stands huddled could legitimately leave our seats. Not to get snacks. No. under a plastic poncho is no fun at all.

That being said, there will be rain and worse, so For band parents, halftime is the whole point of being parents, I hope you remember your umbrellas or hand there, the payoff for the hundreds of man-hours you’ve warmers or whatever the weather requires. And bug spent selling program ads and chocolate bars. spray.

When the drum cadence commences and your child’s I hope the concession stand has plenty of soda when shiny face appears above her even shinier horn, you swell with pride. Of course, at away games, you’re swell- it’s hot and hot chocolate when it’s cold. And M&M’s.

You’ll need them when your child is about to play a solo ing from the wrong side of the field. Bands play to the or kick a field goal. home team. Visitors only receive the show in disjointed Other than that, just have fun. Program ads and chocechoes as the music reverberates off the press box.

Hence, band parents leave the comfort of their mosquito- olate bars, toting and crouching aside, these years go by way too fast. Look up at the lights and enjoy. ❖ infested seats to crouch along the home team fence line.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What’s the one fall fashion trend this year that you just don’t get?

“I really like all the blazers and booties.

The one thing I don’t like are these army green skinny pants. I’m just not crazy about those.”

Meredith DeRosa Doree in Homewood

“I guess being in the fashion industry, I like everything. Some things might not be everybody’s cup of tea, but I’ll give it a try.”

Brooke Benson Shoezy-Q in Homewood

“I don’t like the denim on denim I’ve been seeing. I just don’t get that trend.

I’m not going to be doing it.”

Nicole Lemons Noles Swank in Mountain Brook

“I don’t get all the gray.

I had to search so hard to find things that weren’t gray. It’s the neutral for fall. We’re working to bring in some pops of color to make it work.”

Dee Tipps a.k.a Girl Stuff in Homewood

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 3

Simple life in abundance

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4 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

ABOUT TOWN

Tapping His Way to a Cure

October 1-3, 2010

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Young Cancer Survivor Hopes to ‘Tap Out’ Cancer

Fall Tour of Homes

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Alex Swader, a 10-year-old cancer survivor, dancer and creator of “Dancers Fighting Cancer,” presents the second annual Tapping Out Childhood Cancer Gala Sept. 26.

The fundraiser for pediatric cancer research at Children’s Hospital will be at Gabrella Manor from 2 to 5 p.m.

The event will include two dance showcases with various dance styles from local professionals and amateurs, including Alex himself, the UAB Golden Girls, the Momentum Girls, ballroom professionals and many more.

Music will be provided by Jamm Entertainment, and there also will be inflatables, face painting, clowns, food and more.

Tickets are on sale at a discounted rate through Sept. 3 at $15 each or $50 for a family (two adults and up to three children under age 15).

After Sept. 3, prices will be $20 for a single ticket and $60 for families.

Call Michele Swader at 2611416 for information about tickets and the event.

Event Encourages Baby Safety

September is National Baby Safety Month, and the Exchange Club Family Skills Center has adopted Shaken Baby Syndrome/ Abusive Head Trauma (SBS/AHT) as its cause for that month.

To kick off the awareness campaign, the club will host its second annual “Shake a Leg Not a Baby” skating fundraiser. The event will begin at 5 p.m. Aug. 28 at Roller Motion Skate Center at 2474 Morgan Road in Bessemer.

SBS/ AHT is one of the most

Alexander Swader, a 10-year-old cancer survivor, is presenting the second annual Tapping Out Childhood Cancer Gala Sept. 26 at Gabrella Photo special to the Journal Manor. violent forms of child abuse, accounting for the majority of severe head injuries in children less than one year old. It is the most common cause of mortality and long-term disability in infants and young children due to physical abuse.

Tickets are $5 per person or $18 for a family four-pack, which includes admission and skate rental.

Free refreshments and door prizes will be given out from 5 to 7 p.m.

Proceeds benefit the Exchange Club Family Skills Center, a nonprofit organization for the preven-

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tion of child abuse and neglect For more information or tickets, call 801-5151 or visit www.ecfsc. com.

Meeting to Discuss Family Names, Dates

The Birmingham Genealogy Society will meet on Aug. 28 in the Linn Healy Research Library on the fourth floor. The guest speaker will be Mary Taylor. Her subject will be how to make your family more than just names and dates. There will be a meet and greet at 1:30 p.m., and the meeting starts at 2 p.m. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 5

Hosting the 2010 Maestro Ball are from left: Benny and Lynn LaRussa, with ball chairman Maggie Brooke and corporate committee chairman Dowd Ritter.

Photo special to The Journal

ASO Maestro’s Ball Set for Sept. 10

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and Music Director Justin Brown will present the Maestro’s Ball, hosted

by Lynn and Benny LaRussa, Sept. 10 at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center.

The Maestro’s Ball is the ASO’s largest fundraising event.

Its proceeds support the artistic, educational and outreach programs of the ASO. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a champagne reception in the Stephens Center lobby, followed by a 7 p.m. concert in the Jemison Concert Hall featuring guest pianist Valentina Lisitsa playing “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini” with Maestro Brown conducting.

At 8 p.m., patrons will enjoy dinner catered by Idie and Chris Hastings of Hot and Hot Fish Club on the center’s grounds. Décor will be by Sybil Sylvester of Wildflower Designs.

For more information, call Ashley Blomeyer at 314-6917.

Asbury to Host Consignment Sale

The Giggles & Grace children and youth fall consignment sale at Asbury United Methodist Church in North Shelby County will be Sept. 10 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Select items, including clothing (sizes infant-junior), shoes, baby items, furniture, toys, books and more, will be 50 percent off Sept.11.

The semi-annual sale benefits Asbury’s children’s ministries as well as other missions and ministries. Visit www.asburygigglesandgrace.com for more information.

Lil’ Lambs Sale Helps Children’s Ministries

Trinity United Methodist Church in Homewood will hold its fall Lil’ Lambs consignment sale Sept. 10 and 11. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. until noon Saturday. Most items are half-price on Saturday.

Lil’ Lambs is a sale of gentlyused infants’ and children’s clothing, accessories, toys and nursery

items. Sellers receive 70 percent of their proceeds; the remaining 30 percent helps support Trinity’s children’s ministries.

For information, visit www. trinitybirmingham.com or call 8791737.

Dr. Andrew Wolfe is the church’s senior pastor.

Walk Raises Funds for Furry Friends

The second annual Paws for the Cause 5K run/walk and fun run/pet walk will be Sept. 11 at Veterans Park on 4750 Valleydale Road in Hoover.

The run/walk begins at 8 a.m., and the fun run/pet walk starts at 9:15 a.m.

The event benefits the Shelby County Humane Society.

The early entry free is $25 for the 5K run/walk and $10 for the 1-mile fun run/pet walk. After Sept. 7, the fee is $30 for the run/ walk and $15 for the fun run/pet walk.

For more information or early registration, visit www. shelbypaws4thecause.com or www.active.com. ❖

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ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Literacy Council Series Features Local Author

The next author featured at the Literacy Council’s Signature Series fundraising event is a New York Times best-selling writer and a Birmingham native. ��������������� Sena Jeter Naslund will release ������������ her latest novel, “Adam & Eve,” at a private cocktail reception at one of Birmingham’s most prominent homes.

The reception will be Sept.

28 at 6:30 p.m.

The Signature Series brings at least three well-known authors to Birmingham through�������������������� out the year to help raise money ��������������� for the Literacy Council, a non������������ profit organization dedicated to strengthening and supporting organizations that provide literacy services in central Alabama.

In an intimate setting, patrons are able to mingle with the author and receive a signed copy of his or her latest work.

Naslund became a New York Times best-selling author after ������ ������������������������������� her first novel, “Ahab’s Wife.” ������� She followed that book with ������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� the critically-acclaimed “Four ������� ��������� ����������� Spirits” and “Abundance: A Novel of Marie Antoinette.” ����������������������������������������������������������������� ��������� After graduating from �������������������������������������������������������������������� Phillips High School, she ������ received her undergradu��������������������������������������������� ate degree from Birmingham Southern College, where she ����������������������������������� won the B.B. Comer Medal in English. She earned a master’s �������������������������������������������� degree and doctorate from the ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� University of Iowa Writers’ �������������������������������������������������� Workshop. ������������������������������������ Tickets are $150 each and are limited. To buy a ticket, visit 619 Montgomery Highway • 979-5611 www.literacy-council.org or call 326-1925 or 1-888-448-7323. jewelsbyrose.net and join us on Facebook!

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PECK HILLS

Ramsay High Grads to Reunite at The Club

Ramsay High School graduates from the classes of 1967-72 are invited to a reunion at The Club Ballroom at 7 p.m. Aug. 27. ����� ���������������� Music will be provided by the ������� ��������������������������������������������� Flashbacks.

There will be heavy ������������������� hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. ������� �������� Tickets are $50 and can ������������������������������������������������������������������ be purchased at the door. �������������������������������������������������������������������� For more information e-mail RamsayReunion2010@gmail. ��������������������������������������������� com.

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Making plans for the Literacy Council’s next Signature Series event are, from left, Susan Swagler, Betty Wells and Renee Pugh.

Alys Stephens Center Hosting Free Percussion Festival

UAB’s Alys Stephens Center will present the third annual interART-ive party, a free outdoor festival celebrating music, Sept. 16 from 6 to 9 p.m.

The party will kick off the center’s 11 Day Opening Festival of events and performances celebrating the new season.

This year’s theme is “inter-ARTive has the beat.” The festival will feature live performances by the UAB Drumline and the UAB Steel Drum Band, leading up to headliner Willie Ziavino Y Su Grupa plus a drumming circle led by John Scalici’s Get Rhythm.

Drums and shakers will be provided, or those who attend can bring their own. The event also includes prize giveaways, a cash bar and food vendors.

The event, open to everyone, will be in the center’s outdoor plaza, 1200 10th Ave. South.

Call 975-2787 or visit www.

AlysStephens.org. for more information.

ASC Junior Patrons will have access to the VIP lounge, with complimentary drinks and appetizers.

Junior Patron membership begins at $40 per year and includes discount tickets throughout the season, free admission to the JP Lounge, invitations to special events and more. To join, contact Joel Cheatwood at 9759540 or e-mail jcheatwo@uab.edu.

Photo special to The Journal

DelGreco to Keynote Harvest of Hope Luncheon

Oak Mountain Mission Ministries’ fourth annual Harvest of Hope Luncheon will be Sept. 23 at 11 a.m. at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center.

A silent auction begins at 10 a.m., and guests can arrive early to see the items. The luncheon will feature several local speakers and a musical duet by the Rev. Al Lewis and Passion Lewis.

Former Auburn University and NFL place-kicker and sports radio host Al DelGreco will be the keynote speaker. Janet Hall of Fox 6 will again be the mistress of ceremonies.

The Harvest of Hope Luncheon helps the Oak Mountain Mission Ministry fulfill its goal of helping those in need by providing clothing, furniture, household items and financial assistance.

For ticket information, e-mail oakmountainmissions@yahoo. com or call 685-5757.

Author to Discuss Journey of Faith

Sister Helen Prejean, a Southern best-selling author, will be at Prince of Peace Catholic Church Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. to discuss her journey of faith, reconciliation and forgiveness.

Prejean was introduced to the capital punishment debate in January 1982.

Through the Louisiana prison system, she began her journey as a spiritual advisor and developed a friendship with inmate Patrick Sonnier.

Their relationship was the subject of her best-selling book, “Dead Man Walking,” later adapted into an Oscar-winning movie. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Run, Family Day Benefits Cancer Research

Head Over Teal 5K and Family Day will be Sept. 18 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Preserve in Hoover.

The run benefits the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation, which promotes awareness and funds ovarian cancer research for early detection.

The day will include a 5K walk/ run or a one-mile fun run; inflatables, field day events, children’s musical entertainers, face painting, crafts and musical performances throughout the day.

A blood drive will assist patients undergoing treatment. Guests may picnic on the green, and food and beverages will be sold on site. Pets on leashes are welcome.

The walk/run and fun run begin at 10 a.m. Other activities will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Summer Series Will Feature GrammyWinning Guitarist

UAB’s Alys Stephens Center will present Grammy Award-winning guitarist Jonny Lang at 8 p.m.

Aug. 28.

In more than 10 years on the road, Lang has toured with the Rolling Stones, Buddy Guy, Aerosmith, B.B. King, Blues Traveler, Jeff Beck and Sting.

The show is part of the Alys Stephens Center’s new, casual Summer Concerts Series.

Those who attend are invited to come early for summer tunes from The Goodfellas plus brews and barbecue from Jim ’N’ Nick’s in the courtyard beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $57, $47 and $37.

Student tickets are $20, and $10 student rush tickets will be available on the day of the show.

For more information, call 9752787 or visit www.AlysStephens. org. The center is at 1200 10th Ave. South.

Rotaract Hosts 2nd Hack-It Classic

The Rotaract Club of Birmingham will host its second annual Hack-It Classic Aug. 28 at Highland Park Golf Course.

Teams of four will compete for the coveted Hack-It Classic trophy and a $100 tab at the post-tournament party. Additional prizes will be awarded for hole in one, longest drive and closest to the pin contests.

Registration includes drink tickets, cart and green fees, range balls, snacks and exclusive Rotaract golf balls.

The Rotaract Club of Birmingham was founded in 2004 to develop effective leaders and promote responsible citizenship.

Members are young professionals who are deeply committed to playing a key role in serving communities locally, nationally and globally.

To participate in this year’s tournament, info@birminghamrotaract. com.

Western Wine Event Offers Good Wines for a Good Cause

The Western Supermarkets’ annual Read Between the Wines will be from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sept.

30 at the Birmingham Zoo. The event is a fundraiser for the Emmet O’Neal Library.

More than 700 wines will be available for tasting, and Jefferson State Community College’s culinary school will prepare hors d’oeuvres.

The event will take place in the children’s section of the zoo where attendees can check out some of the zoo’s animals and even ride the carousel.

Tickets can be purchased at all Western Supermarket locations and at the Emmet O’Neal Library. They are $45 in advance and $55 at the door. Group discounts also are available for groups of 10-24 for $40 each or groups of 25 or more for $34 each.

Scott Atkinson, a wine consultant for Western Supermarket, will be among the wine experts on hand at the Read Between the Wines event Journal Photo by Laura McAlister at the Birmingham Zoo Sept. 30.

ABOUT TOWN

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 7

Helping plan the second annual Hack-It Classic are, from left: Holly Brown, Richard Davis, Tyler Price, Alex Huffman, Andrew Case and Anna Price.

Photo special to The Journal

8 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

PEOPLE

Proctor is enrolled at Washington and Lee University, where he is pursuing a degree in American history.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Hoover’s Rice Inducted in Sports Hall of Fame

David Andrew Woodard recently was awarded a U.S. Air Force ROTC scholarship by Capt.

Ashleigh Thomas.

Photo special to The Journal

Woodard Receives AFROTC Scholarship

David Andrew Woodard was awarded a United States Air Force ROTC Scholarship May 7 at the Vestavia Hills High School awards day program. Capt.

Ashleigh Thomas, U.S. Air Force, Unit Admissions Officer from Detachment 5, Auburn University, presented the award. Woodard also received a nomination from Rep. Spencer Bachus for appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Class of 2010.

A recent graduate of Vestavia Hills High School, he is the son of Patricia and Keith Woodard.

Woodard competed for the ������ scholarship with more than ������� ������������������������������������������������� 13,000 high school seniors from � ������������������� across the U.S. He was evaluated ������� ��������� on academic scores, leadership, work experience, officer potential, ������������������������������������������������������������������ extracurricular activities, physical �������������������������������������������������������������������� fitness, interviews and questionnaire results.

The four-year scholarship cov��������������������������������������������� ers full college tuition, textbooks, ����������������������������������� fees, a tax-free monthly allowance and travel reimbursement. The estimated value of an AFROTC �������������������������������������������� Scholarship exceeds $100,000. ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������� Woodard will attend Auburn University, where he will major in ������������������������������������ aerospace engineering. In addition to his engineering classes, he will also take a number of ROTC classes and visit Air Force bases.

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Proctor Completes U.S. Senate Internship Custis Proctor, the son of Jim and Laura Proctor of Birmingham, recently completed an internship in the Washington D.C. office of U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby.

While in Washington, Proctor conducted tours of the U.S. Capitol building and researched legislative issues. He also attended hearings regarding the military strategy in Afghanistan and a hearing held by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works on the BP oil spill.

Norman Rice of Hoover was inducted into the Marshall County Sports Hall of Fame June 5 for his baseball and coaching accomplishments.

Rice is a 1957 graduate of Arab High, where he lettered three years in baseball. As a left-handed Norman Rice pitcher, he threw a no-hitter his senior year in a game in which an outfield error kept him from pitching a perfect game. He later played at Snead State and Howard College (now Samford University) and coached at T.R. Miller High School in Brewton and at Childersburg. After his athletic career Rice worked with the Alabama Department of Education and taught at Samford.

He is one of nine people to be inducted during the ceremonies.

UAB’s Anderson Named to U.S. Exam Committee

Peter Anderson, D.V.M., Ph.D., professor and director of undergraduate pathology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has been appointed to the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 Committee.

Anderson will contribute to the content, standards and overall direction of the licensing examination program.

The USMLE provides a common evaluation system for those applying for medical licensure.

It is sponsored by the Federation of State Medical Boards and the National Board of Medical Examiners.

Anderson has been active with the USMLE since 2002 and chairs its Pathology Test Material Development Committee.

He also is a member of a Step 1 Interdisciplinary Review Committee and is a test-committee representative to the board of medical examiners. He is a founding member of the International Association of Medical Science Educators and serves on its board of directors.

After earning his doctorate of veterinary medicine at Washington State University, Anderson earned his doctorate in experimental pathology at UAB.

Jim Pratt is State Bar President-Elect Designate

Jim Pratt, an attorney at Birmingham Law Firm Hare Wynn, was installed as presidentelect designate of the Alabama State Bar July 17. He will serve in that role for the next year before assuming the role of the president of the Alabama State Bar. Pratt is a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates, a group limited to 100 attorneys nationwide, and is a fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the International Society of Barristers.

Jim Pratt He was selected as one of the top 500 plaintiffs lawyers in the U.S. by Dragon Law, one of the Best Lawyers in America for 10 years and designated a Super Lawyer in Alabama.

He is also a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates, American Law Institute and Alabama Law Foundation and is a diplomat of the National College of Advocacy.

He is a member of the Board of Bar Commissioners for the state of Alabama and serves on the Disciplinary Panel for the Alabama State Bar. ❖ Custis Proctor of Birmingham recently completed the Congressional Internship Program at Sen. Richard Shelby’s Washington D.C. office.

Photo special to The Journal

Samford’s Richardson Named Fellow of Hymn Society

Paul Richardson, Samford University professor of music, was named a Fellow of the Hymn Society in the United States and Canada during the group’s annual conference July 11-15 at Samford.

Richardson, Baylor University professor David W. Music and Paul Richard Powell of New Orleans were cited for their outstanding contributions to the study and practice of congregational song. The honor is the highest bestowed by the society.

A professor of voice and church music, Richardson co-authored “‘I Will Sing the Wondrous Story’: A History of Baptist Hymnody in America” in 2008, as well as “Singing Baptists: Studies in Baptist Hymnody in America” in 1994. He contributed to the Handbook to the Baptist Hymnal and the New Century Hymnal Companion.

The Hymn Society is an organization of member pastors, musicians, scholars, poets, composers and other hymn lovers. It was founded in 1922 and has 2,000 members in the U.S. and around the world.

Terry Bagwell, left, received the Patriot Award for his support of the National Guard and Reserve from Greg Clark.

Photo special to The Journal

Bagwell Honored for Support of the Guard

Terry Bagwell was honored with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve’s Patriot Award, which recognizes employers who support the National Guard and Reserve force.

Employers qualify for recognition when they practice leadership and personnel policies that support employee participation in the Guard and Reserve.

Bagwell, managing director of MetLife Financial Group of the South, an office of MetLife, received the award from Greg Clark, who serves in the National Guard and is a financial advisor with the firm.

Bagwell joined MetLife in 2002 and has worked in the financial services industry for almost 20 years. He is a past president of Birmingham Area Financial

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 9

PEOPLE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Advisors and is actively involved in many community activities in Birmingham and Hoover. He is a graduate of the University of North Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and sits on the UNA’s President’s Cabinet.

OTM Students Help Implement National Campaign at UA

Two Hoover High School graduates and one Vestavia Hills High School graduate are mem-

Amanda Coppock John Paul Bruno On the 18-member team are bers of the LessThanUThink Greer Borland, Amanda Coppock Campaign implementation team and John Paul Bruno, students in at the University of Alabama.

Greer Borland

UA’s College of Communications and Information Sciences.

The LessThanUThink Campaign was the only campaign to both place in the 2009 American Advertising Federation’s National Student Advertising Competition and to receive a $75,000 grant from the Century Council for campaign implementation.

At the end of the year, the Century Council may select the UA campaign to be implemented on campuses nationwide. ❖

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10 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

LIFE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

5 years after Katrina: One Evacuee’s Story

JOU RNAL

When returning to New Orleans after Katrina, Gia Rabito saw signs everywhere. Above are just a few she photographed. At her show, “Swept Away,” she’ll have a photo essay called “Signs of Katrina” on display.

Weathering the Storm with a Smile

Katrina Evacuee’s One-Woman Show Salutes Birmingham, New Orleans

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

D

on’t expect any sob stories from Gia Rabito. She may be a Hurricane Katrina evacuee, but for her the story of the storm has a happy ending.

The New Orleans native has called Mountain Brook home for nearly five years. While she misses the Crescent City, she’s gained a new love for the Magic City, and she’s talking about it in her one-woman cabaret show, “Swept Away: From the Crescent City to the Magic City, the Misadventures and Relocation of a Katrina Evacuee.”

The show opens Aug. 27 in the Martha Sykes Studio at the Virginia Samford Theatre, which also marks the five-year anniversary of the storm and Rabito’s evacuation from her hometown.

“This show, for me, is really a huge thank you to Birmingham and all the people who helped me along the way,” said Rabito, executive director of the Alabama Ballet. “There’s also the comparisons.

Birmingham and New Orleans are just delightfully different but equally charming.”

In her one hour and a half show, Rabito discusses the two cities and her love for them both through amusing monologues and well-known songs like “Stormy Monday” and “Up on the Roof.” She’ll also sing one original number.

And, since a story about New Orleans isn’t complete without a cocktail, tickets to the show come with a complimentary Hurricane, the city’s signature drink, served in a souvenir “geaux” cup.

“You can’t take it on the street, though, like you do in New Orleans,” she joked.

While Rabito’s roots run deep in New Orleans – she was a Mardi Gras queen and most of her family still lives in the city – she said it didn’t take her long to realize Birmingham was her new home.

Rabito and her daughter fled New Orleans two days before the hurricane made landfall. They packed an overnight bag, thinking they’d be gone a few days at the most.

“I just had a funny feeling that this was the big one,” she said. “We evacuated Saturday. We were one of the first ones out on the highway. I got right on I-10 and headed for Birmingham.”

Since Rabito’s husband was already living and

“Swept Away” with Gia Rabito When: 8 p.m. Aug. 27-28; 3 p.m. Aug. 29 Where: Martha Sykes Studio at the Virginia Samford Theatre Tickets: $20 (includes Hurricane). Go to www. virginiasamfordtheatr.org or call 251-1228

Go to otmj.com for more photos working in Birmingham, the city was the obvious choice for their evacuation.

“We had planned on being one of those commuting couples until my daughter graduated,” she said.

As they watched the devastation of Katrina unfold from a television in her husband’s corporate apartment, it became obvious they would not be returning to New

Orleans anytime soon.

“I felt like I owed New Orleans a quick decision,” she said. “Within six weeks, I knew I was going to stay in Birmingham. I wanted to return to work. I’d worked for non-profits, which that was going to be tough in New Orleans after Katrina.

“I thought, maybe this is what I was supposed to do.

I was literally ‘swept away.’ ” Rabito and her husband bought a house in Mountain Brook. The New Orleans native quickly found the two cities had some similarities but for the most part were dramatically different.

In Birmingham, Rabito had to get used to hills and used her emergency brake for the first time. She also learned to hold back some of her thoughts and that a cocktail party doesn’t last “until.”

“I just tell people now when I go to a party that ‘I’m from New Orleans, I’ll be the last one here,’ ” she said.

“You just have to tell me to leave. In New Orleans, parties go from ‘7 until.’ We don’t have an end time.”

Rabito does make frequent visits back to her hometown. As part of the show, she’ll also have pictures from her first visit back to New Orleans after Katrina.

While her home was part of the “sliver on the river” that was untouched, signs of the storm literally were everywhere.

“I’ll have a photo exhibit called ‘The Signs of Katrina,’ ” she said. “I went back to New Orleans to take pictures. My area was not devastated, so I didn’t see disaster, but there were just signs everywhere.”

Some signs were desperate, like those posted by people searching for lost loved ones. Some were comical, like one on a taped-up refrigerator instructing people to mail their maggots to Tom Benson, who suggested moving the New Orleans Saints to Texas after Katrina.

Others signs showed the strength and courage of the city with messages like “We love you New Orleans.”

There will be three performances of “Swept Away.”

The Aug. 27-28 shows begin at 8 p.m., and there will be a matinee show at 3 p.m. Aug. 29. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at www.virginiasamfordtheatre. org or by calling 251-1228.

Rabito said that, unlike many Katrina stories, this one is a happy one, as well as a salute to Birmingham.

“At the end of the day, I’m extremely happy that I’ve been relocated, and that’s a credit to the people here,” she said. “When people leave the show, they’ll be happy. They’ll be smiling.” ❖

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 11

More on Stage in the Magic City LIFE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

L

ooking for some more theater in the Over the Mountain area? Local theater groups and organizations have lots to offer in their upcoming seasons. Here are just a few shows coming up this fall:

Fame the Musical

(Sept. 10-19) The Magic City Actors Theatre presents “Fame the Musical” at the Virginia Samford Theatre. The show based on the long-running television series then made movie will kick off the Magic City Actors Theatre’s fifth anniversary season. Tickets are $25 for adults; $20 for seniors; and $15 for students. Go to http://www. virginiasamfordtheatre.org for more information.

Cabaret

(Sept. 16-26) The Red Mountain Theatre Company will presents “Cabaret,” a smashhit musical that spawned an Academy Award-winning movie and two Broadway revivals. Set in 1931 Berlin as the Nazis were rising to power, this show focuses on nightlife at the seedy Kit Kat Club and revolves around English cabaret performer Sally

Bowels and her relationship with Cliff Bradshaw under the watchful eyes of the all-knowing, allseeing master of ceremonies.

Show times are ThursdaySunday at 7: 30 p.m. and also at 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $30$35. Go to www.redmountaintheatre.org for more information.

In Her Own Fashion

(Sept. 9-19) The Terrific New Theatre presents “In Her Own Fashion.” Dolores Hydock will tell stories of Ninette Griffith, the fashion maven from Loveman’s. These stories of romance, fashion and passion of the 1950-60s were told by Ninette herself and are brought to life by Hydock. Call 328-0868 for reservations.

Talking with ...

(Sept. 16-Oct. 2) The Birmingham Theatre presents “Talking With ...” Among the characters are a snake handler, a woman two days into the labor of childbirth, a tattooed woman, a wouldbe kitty killer and more. “Talking With ...” lets you spend the evening with 11 women, some you know, some you’ve imagined and some you’ll hope never to meet. Call 933-BFT3 (2383) for reservations.

The Frog Prince

(Oct. 23) The Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents “The Frog Prince.” Based on the tale by the Brother’s Grimm, “The Frog Prince” tells the story of a spoiled, selfish princess and a frog that is really a prince under a spell.

A family day performance of the play is schedule for 10 a.m. and noon Oct. 23. This play is recommended for 3-6 year olds. Go to www.bct123.org for more information.

Clothing, Jewelry & Accessories www.ShopPrivateGallery.com

Legally Blonde the Musical

(Sept. 24-26) As part of the 2010-2011 Broadway in Birmingham Season, “Legally Blonde the Musical” will be at the BJCC Concert Hall. In its first year on Broadway, the musical earned seven 2007 Tony Award nominations, a 2007 Outer Critics Circle Award and the chorus of the musical was honored by Actors’ Equity Association’s Advisory Committee on Chorus Affairs (ACCA) with the first ever ACCA Award.

Tickets are $20-$60. Go to www.bjcc.org for more information. ❖

Make miracles happen by joining our statewide fundraising and awareness campaign to benefit Children's Hospital of Alabama.

Go to www.MiracleMakersMonth.org for more information and a complete listing of participating locations.

w w w. m i r a c l e m a k e rs m o n t h . o rg

12 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

SOCIAL

Painters, Pets Lend Hand, Paw in Picasso Pets Party

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Hand-In-Paw’s Picasso Pets ...

Debut & Auction was Aug. 14 at Cahaba Grand Conference Center.

Animal and human artists’ paintings were auctioned off to benefit Hand-In-Paw, Birmingham’s nationally-recognized animalassisted therapy organization.

Honorary Chairs of this year’s Picasso Pets were Katie and Jim Lasker. Rob and Jeannine from the new Magic 96.5 Morning Show returned as emcees for the event.

Ken Jackson more photos at was once again the event’s auctioneer.

Presenting their pets this year were: Randy Averett, Tom and Sheree Acheson, Aimee Burgess, Rosemary and Greg Greaves, Holli Hargrove, Debbie Holden, Jay and Denise Hoyle, Mallie Ireland and daughter Frances Nichols, Martin and Angie Jones, Katie and Jim Lasker, John and Preston Moore, Joy and Emmet O’Neal, Betsy and John Saxon, Lora and Mark Spencer, Carter Hughes and Paget Pizitz and Joe O’Donnell.

Aiding the presenters’ animals in the creation of their paintings were artists: Mary Margaret Binkley, Beth Bradley, Arthur Price, Patrice Brunet, David Stellers, Bob McKenna, Lila

OTMJ.COM

Will Holden pets Prince with owner Tina Currie at Picasso Pets. Below, Hand-In-Paw handler Nancy Kuik brought her cat, Laser, to the party at Journal photos by Laura McAlister the Cahaba Grand Conference Center.

Graves, Linda Ellen Price, She She, Sue Ellen Brown, Leah Dodd, Ann Phillips, Connie Crow, Bo Berry, and Dustin Stridiron.

Special guests of the evening included: Jim and Katie Lasker, Wayne and Tina Willard, founder of Hand-In-Paw Beth Franklin, Lisa Thompson Smith, Paget Pizitz, Emmet and Joy O’Neal, sculptor Frank Fleming, YWCA representatives, sponsorship chair Mallie Ireland and Jill Beninato, creator of the promotional pieces for this year’s event. ❖

Among those attending the 10th Annual Picasso Pets were, above, from left: Ashley Whitright, Courtney Lucas and Cassie Moore; and below, from left: Joan Norred and Preston and Julie Elliott.

BBG Goes Green with Cocktails

Nearly 500 guests filled the Hill ...

Christina Vickery, left, and Carolyn Meese grab a seat in the shade at the Birmingham Botanical Garden’s Hill Garden. Below, attending the season’s first Cocktails in the Gardens are from left: Olivia Alison, Photo (below) special to the Journal Shane Boatright and Erin Reardon.

Garden at Birmingham Botanical Gardens Aug. 12 for the launch of the 2011 season of Cocktails in The Gardens. FisherGreen, a new band started by local musicians Chad Fisher more photos at and Heath Green, entertained the audience with originals and classic rock covers. Occasions by Wynfrey catered the event, themed “It’s All About The Green,” with complementary hors d’oeuvres as well as a cash bar with signature cocktails, wine and beer. Décor

by Kirsti provided decorations to match the green vibe.

The events are designed to raise awareness of The Gardens’ programs and opportunities among young professionals, students and the young at heart. The next Cocktails in The Gardens is Sept.

9 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. in the Hill Garden. The theme that night is

OTMJ.COM

Attending the Birmingham Botanical Garden’s Cocktails in the Gardens were from left: Sherry Godfrey, Vanessa Jackson and Mattye Grier.

Journal photos by Laura McAlister

“Down Home Delights,” with Southern rocker Hunter Lawley entertaining the crowd and Spiked Lemonade as the signature cocktail. The final event is slated for Oct. 14 with Bonus Round performing at the “Autumn Harvest Feastival.” Tickets are $15, but members of The Gardens get in free.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit at www.bbgardens.org/cocktails.

Proceeds from the events support Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ education programs and its mission to promote public knowledge and appreciation of plants, gardens and the environment. ❖

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Mountain Brook High’s Class of 1970 ...

celebrated its 40th reunion July 30-31. The class was the first to attend the school for four years, starting as freshmen the first year the school opened.

Friday night’s gathering, hosted by Martha Hamrick Boshers, was at the home she lived in during her high school years.

Classmate Ben Smith arranged a tour of the high school on Saturday, followed by lunch at Billy’s on Overton.

Saturday night’s event started with cocktails in the Gold Room at The Club, followed by a seated dinner.

Pictures more photos at of classmates, dating back to 1970, were shown on a big screen throughout the evening.

Billy Mills, class president, welcomed guests, and Walter Wood, student council president, said a prayer before the meal.

Following dinner, guests listened to Chevy 6. Classmate Scott Hilley gave a performance, followed by an awards ceremony hosted by Scott and Kathy Fisher Harwell.

Green and gold gift bags included Class of 1970 Spartan blend coffee, donated by Royal Cup Coffee and Hatton Smith, one of its owners. There were also several memory items in the bags.

Some 200 guests were in attendance for each one of the two nights’ gatherings.

The school’s first principal, Dr. Harold Patterson, attended both nights’ festivities. Former teachers there included Sandra Collier, Ann Hester, Barbara Kirk, Nancy Robinson, Coach Collins, Coach Fitts and Fred and Ann Stephens.

Helping plan the weekend were Livy Beck Abele, Dalton Forman Blankenship, Martha Hamrick Boshers, Stella Farrell Brittain, Courtney Burge Brown, Margaret Chenoweth Caley, Luci Tillman Colee, Jane Wheatley Grace, Raleigh Kent and Barrett Brock Mackay.

Others organizing the reunion were Billy Mills, Margaret Parker Moor, Maureen Schultz Petrofsky, Shannon Ritchie, Gail Teninbaum Silverman, Ben Smith, Marsha Meeks Vickers, Joe Wallace, Beth Kirkland Ward, Joan Coppinger Wettermark and Yorke Cox Williams.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 13

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OTMJ.COM

“Red, White and Birdie for ...

All American Girls” was the patriotic theme for Vestavia Country Club’s recent invitational

Above, catching up at Mountain Brook High School’s Class of 1970 reunion were, from left: Beth Hammond Woodward, Yorke Cox Williams and Kathy Fisher Harwell. Also attending were, from left: Vicki Wittichen Henderson, Pete and Martha Hamrick Boshers.

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Photos special to The Journal

tournament.

The event, planned by Cille Spader and Patti Salmon, had flags on each tee as the ladies teed off for two days of golf.

Tables were decorated with red geraniums, which were also door prizes, planted in red, white and blue pots.

VCC golf director Alan Austin announced the winners, who were awarded serving trays. In first place were Marsha IN R !

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Mary Charles’ Doll House New, Collectible Antique Dolls

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SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of the Old Overton Ladies Golf Association and their guests recently attended the group’s annual Photo special to The Journal member-guest tournament.

Haney and Lynn Glover from Grayson Valley Country Club.

Other winners were Kathy Hartwiger of Hoover Country Club and Lea Green from Bentbrook, second place; Sue Strozier and Heather Norris of VCC, third; and Quida Cunningham of VCC and Betty McCrory of Riverchase Country Club, fourth.

Closest to the pin were Carolyn Hartman and Adrienne O’Brien, both of VCC. Others enjoying the event were Mitzi Hill of Indian Hills Country Club and Sandra Holliman from Fayette Country Club, Delores Teague from Burningtree Country Club, Carol Hancock and Ann Ramey from Azalea Country Club and Kay Tyler from Canebrake Country Club.

Also there were Bobbie Hallmark, Vickie Hogue, Brenda Dailey, Nita Funderberg, Jane Young, Patricia McConnell, Becky Whisenhunt, Blanch Pearson, Yorke Williams and Adeline Williams.

Playing from Vestavia Country Club were Nell Larson, Marylou Willings, Susan Murphy, Gloria Nelson, Peggy

Lowery, Jean Archibald, Rachel Howland, Helen Smalley, Barbara Hart, Peggy West, Jean McCarley and Betty Tucker.

Also playing were Margaret Caley, Nancy McDonald, and Michelle DeAmbra. Others enjoying the event were Bettie Davenport and Mary Jim Mueller.

The Old Overton Ladies Golf ...

Association recently held its annual member-guest tournament.

Among those participating were Missy Bibb, Marie Roberts, Janet Hess, Eva Shepherd, Carol Lell, Martha Lang, Jean Miller, Sandra Smith, Susie Martin, Bootsie Garrett, Sandy Berglund, Loyce Bares, Marian Fitts, Vicki Hunkler, Lori Eans, Nancy Castaldo, Sherri Pledger, Lynda Morris, Dottie Smith, Lyndy Rogers, Beth Adams, Nonie Brown and Julie Goyer.

Others were Helen Drennen, Dianne Hill, Lucie King, Amy McGohon, Stephanie Hanna, Jackie Tucker, Kim Ware,

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Winners of the “Red, White and Birdie for All American Girls Invitational at Vestavia County Club were Marsha Haney, left, and Lynn Glover.

Photo special to the Journal

Sarah Sturn, Bess Owen, Beverly Lance, Audrey Songy, Gayle Palmer, Betty McCrory, Charlotte Fox, Wanda Coontz, Mary Margaret Pruitt, Terry Shackelford, Michelle D’Ambra, Kristen Perkins, Peggy Kelley and Jean Archibald.

Winners of the tournament were: Low gross: Dianne Hill, Lucie King, Amy McGohon and Stephanie Hanna. Low net: Missy Bibb, Marie Roberts, Janet Hess and Eva Shepherd.Second low net: Susie Martin, Bootsie Garrett, Sandy Berglund and Loyce Bares. Third low net: Charlotte Fox, Wanda Coontz, Mary Margaret Pruett and Terry Shackelford.Longest drive: Missy Bibb (member) and Sarah Sturn (guest).Closest to pin: Marian Fitts (member) and Lynda Morris (guest).

More than 40 area volunteers and ...

guests attended the recent Volunteer Appreciation Banquet at the McWane Science Center.

Jan Mattingly, vice president of education for McWane, welcomed volunteers and docents to the banquet, which is held annually as part of McWane’s celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week. Ms. Mattingly read a statement of appreciation by president and CEO Tim Ritchie.

Kathy Fournier, director of science education, and Dana Crisson, manager of community relations and volunteers, handed out prizes and special volunteer service recognition awards.

Docent of the Year Award was presented to Lynn Prichard for her many hours of service revising and teaching McWane Science Center’s home school program.

Volunteer of the Year was awarded to weekend volunteer Tom Zhang.

A special Above and Beyond Volunteer Award was presented to Betty Jones, who has given more than 3,355 hours of volunteer service since she joined the vol-

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

unteer program in 2002.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 15

❖

The Ballet Women’s Committee met ...

May 6 at the home of Linda Gooldrup. The highlight was the presentation of a $68,500 check to representatives of the Alabama Ballet. One of the primary functions of the organization is to support the Alabama Ballet.

The donation represented funds raised from two major annual events: the Fall Extravaganza in October and the Poinsettia Debutante Ball in December.

There to accept the check for the Alabama Ballet were Gia Rabito, Tracey Alvey, Roger Van Fleteren and Leslie Cooper.

Also at the May meeting, the BWC installed new officers for the upcoming club year. They are: Ruby Cade, president; Liz Guest, vice president; Mary Jo Angelo, secretary; Stacy Kingren, corresponding sec-

At the presentation of a Ballet Women’s Committee donation to the Alabama Ballet were, from left: Nancy Kennedy, BWC outgoing president, and Roger Van Fleteren, Tracey Alvey, Gia Rabito and Leslie Photo special to The Journal Cooper of the Alabama Ballet. retary; Vickie Kirkpatrick, treasurer; Denise Lewis, assistant treasurer; Denise Oliver, Poinsettia Ball chairman; and Nancy K. Kennedy, advisor.

Organizers for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church’s Ladies’ Altar Sodality tea party and fashion show were, from left, back, Mary Ellen Huesken, Stephanie Byrne and Kathy Skinner. All three are teaching their daughters: in front, from left, Ann Huesken, Mary Margaret Byrne and Hollon Skinner – the importance of being active in the community.

Photo special to The Journal Not pictured is Anna Elizabeth Byrne.

The Ladies’ Altar Sodality at ...

St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church hosted its biannual tea party and fashion show in March.

The event featured tea cup auctions and refreshments as well as fashions presented by Town and Country and Snap Kids, both in Crestline.

St. Francis parishioners of various ages modeled. More than 100 attended.

Organizers included Mary Ellen Huesken, Stephanie Byrne and Kathy Skinner, all of Mountain Brook. ❖

Been to any good parties lately?

Send us your pictures and we’ll share them online and in print!

Upload them at otmj.com or e-mail them to editorial@otmj.com.

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16 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

Members of the Belvedere Study ...

Club observed their longstanding tradition of gathering for a midsummer luncheon just for fun on July 7 at the Spiced Tea Room in Homewood.

Club president Dale Miller

SOCIAL organized the get-together.

Belvedere, organized as a study club in 1948, is celebrating its 62nd year.

At the club’s last regular luncheon-meeting in May, the speaker was Ginger Brown, daughter of the late Virginia Huckstep, a founding member and 1949 Belvedere president.

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Luncheon hostess was Butch Smith. She introduced guests Brenda and Eileen Werndst, two of her relatives from Pennsylvania.

Retiring president Olivia Wells turned over the gavel to new president Dale Miller. Other officers serving in 2010-11 are Barbara Randle, vice president; Janis Zeanah, recording secretary; Butch Smith, corresponding secretary; Susie Elliott, treasurer; and Olivia Wells, parliamentarian.

Also attending the May meeting were Florinne Campbell, Kay Davidson, Mary Harris, Judy Harvey, Mary Catherine Henning, Judy Jackson, Peggy Kime and Margie Curry, a newly elected member.

Sprig O’Holly Garden Club is planning ...

a variety of programs for its 55th year. The club was organized Aug. 28, 1955, at the Vestavia ���������������������������������� home of the late Boots Schoel by a small group of young matrons, some of whom are still active members.

At the first meeting Sept.13, Bruno Events CEO Gene Hallman will speak on “The Trials and Tribulations of an Event Planner.” Fletcher Harvey, ���� �������� �������������������������� Birmingham News restaurant ������� ������������������������������������������������� critic, will present “Let’s Eat Out: ���������������������������� � ������������������� A Look at the Dining Scene in ������� ��������� Birmingham and Beyond” Oct. ��������������������� 11. ������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������ The November speaker will ��������������������������������������������������������������������� � ��������������������� be Edwin Marty, executive

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

New officers of the Belvedere Study Club are, from left, Janis Zeanah, Susie Elliott, Olivia Wells, Butch Smith, Barbara Randle and president Dale Miller. Below, attending the Belvedere Study Club’s May luncheon were, from left, Olivia Wells, retiring president; Ginger Brown, speaker; Photo special to The Journal and Butch Smith, hostess.

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from left: Nancy Jones, Sarah �������������������������������������������� Dodd, Marilyn ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� Gross, Betty �������������������������������������������������� Nunis and Joan ������������������������������������ Hinkle.

Left, hostesses for Sprig O’Holly Garden Club’s May meeting were, from left: Nancy Jones, Adrienne O’Brien and Anne Michaels.

Photos special to the Journal

director of the Jones Valley Urban Farm, and the annual Christmas luncheon will be held at the Country Club of Birmingham.

The first program of the New Year will be the second Monday of January 2 at The Club. Fred Spicer, Birmingham Botanical Gardens executive director, will discuss the Gardens’ expansion and future plans.

Sprig O’Holly ended its 2010 meetings in May at the home of Adrienne O’Brien. Co-hostesses were Nancy Jones and Anne Michaels. Certified appraiser Bill Carder evaluated silver, porcelain, art objects and other treasures that members brought with them.

New officers assumed their duties at the meeting. They are Nancy Jones, president; Sarah Dodd, vice president; Betty Nunis, secretary; Joan Hinkle, treasurer; and retiring president Marilyn Gross, parliamentarian.

Committee chairmen are Anne Michaels, yearbook; Kay Davidson, telephone; Janis Zeanah, publicity and scrapbook; and Marilyn Gross, constitution and bylaws.

Other active members include Jean Beatty, Betty Bowen, Virginia Chappelle, Martha Chism, Faye Dick, Lovie Dixon, Tallulah Hargrove, Fay Hart, Jan McElroy, Barbara Randle, Helen Smalley, Janet Thomas, Blanche Thomason, Betty Weeks and Elaine Wood.

Barbara Hawkins, the club’s first president when it was organized in 1955, is now an associate member. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘Bar-B-Que for the Boogie Bunch’ was ...

the theme for the Revelers Dance Club’s summer party, held in July at the Buckwood Clubhouse.

Co-hostesses were Cheree Carlton with Eric, Ann Harvey with Fletcher and Jane Maupin.

Greeting members and guests was president Dee Smith with husband Roland.

Among those enjoying appetizers and desserts made by members plus barbecue with all the trimmings were Colleen Adams, Roberta and Jim Atkinson, Dixie and Bill Ayers, Martha and Bob Black, Bonnie and Anthony Cicio, Peggy and Ralph Coleman, Norma Jeanne and Al Crews, Barbra and Jerry Edwards, Virginia and Boyce Guthrie and guests Olivia and Don Wurner.

Others who listened to the music of Eric Carlton by the pool were Pat and Reginald Hug, Joyce and Ebbie Jones, Carolyn and Whitfield King, Donna and Evan McCauley, Lee and Charles Moss, Jo and Jack Pollard, Betty Rogers and John Bosshart, Liz and Tom Warren and Betty and Wally Womack.

Betty Rogers and Colleen Adams led line dancing.

DAR representatives were among those attending ...

the 119th annual Continental Congress in Washington D.C. More than 4,000 gathered for the weeklong event hosted by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Birmingham’s Cahawba Chapter members there included Nancy Folk, regent; Nancy White, treasurer; Susan Hoxie, registrar; Amy Cooper, page for the President General; and Halcyann Badham, historian.

The Birmingham group attended committee meetings and evening events, including the Alabama Tea, Georgia Fiesta Luncheon, DAR School Supper and the Units Overseas Committee Luncheon and International Bazaar. Amy Cooper was recognized at the Junior Membership Luncheon as Alabama’s Outstanding Junior.

Highlights of the event included welcoming keynote speakers and award winners during the gala evening ceremonies. The featured speaker on opening night was James Rees, executive director of the Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens.

Lt. Gen. John Allen, acting commander of the U.S. Central Command, gave the keynote address for National Defense Night, an evening dedicated to honoring and celebrating the nation’s service personnel and veterans. ❖

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 17

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Above, at a Revelers Dance Club summer gathering were, from left, Joyce Jones, Ebbie Jones and Martha Black.

Left, Liz Warren, left, and Cheree Carlton were among Revelers Dance Club members at the group’s July party.

Photos special to the Journal

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18 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

Parishioners of Our Lady of Sorrows ...

celebrated the success of the Homewood church’s recordbreaking Independence Day Festival with a July 28 appreciation dinner.

The 61st festival, held July 3, was the most successful ever, according to John Spratley, festival co-chairman and Grand Knight of the OLS Knights of Columbus 4304, whose members coordinated the event.

More than 100 volunteers and their families attended the dinner. The fundraiser’s two major beneficiaries received checks at the event.

Mary Jane Dorn, OLS School principal, accepted a check for $27,000. OLS pastor Martin Muller was presented with a $27,000 check for the church’s building fund.

Former U. S. Ambassador to the Kyrgyz ...

Republic John M. O’Keefe, now executive director of the Open World Leadership Center at the Library of Congress,

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Josh Karg, Grace Kyle, James Suthon, Virginia Brasher, and Jessica Chriesman turned out for the dinner to thank Independence Day Festival Photo special to The Journal volunteers at Our Lady of Sorrows Church.

State Rep. Cam Ward and Alabaster Mayor David Frings were breakfast guests in the home of Birmingham Friendship Force members Charlotte and Tom Laggy.

Since its founding by Congress in 1999, the Open World Program has enabled more than 14,000 current and

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Enjoying breakfast at the home of Birmingham Friendship Force

members Charlotte and Tom Laggy were, from left: State Rep. Cam ��������������������������������������������

Ward, Mrs. Laggy, ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� Ambassador John �������������������������������������������������� Leadership Center. ������������������������������������

Alabaster Mayor David Frings and former U. S. O’Keefe, executive director of the Open World Photo special to The Journal

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future Eurasian leaders to experience American democracy, civil society and community life; work with their American counterparts; stay in American homes; and gain new ideas and inspiration for implementing change back home.

Ambassador O’Keefe recognized the Birmingham Friendship Force Club’s involvement and support in the Open World Program. The club, which has hosted eight Open World Programs in the last seven years, is a member of Friendship Force International, a leading nonprofit international cultural exchange organization headquartered in Atlanta.

Chartered in 1984, the Birmingham club has hosted 617 international guests from clubs in 18 countries and 128 guests from seven clubs in America.

Also, the club has been hosted for 36 international exchanges involving 714 members and visited seven clubs in America with 128 members involved.

The club currently has 69 members representing the Birmingham metropolitan area.

Girl Scouts of North-Central ...

Alabama kicked off their annual fundraising campaign in June at the home of Alice and Tom Williams in Mountain Brook.

The Annual Campaign Committee hosted a social that included appetizmore photos at ers and wine from the Williams’ private collection, and then met with committee chairmen to plan their strategy for the campaign.

The 2010 campaign goal is $275,000, which supports GSNCA’s five initiatives of

OTMJ.COM

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The boutique’s new location provides space that includes dressing rooms, a makeup and jewelry counter and a toy store.

Appreciation Day started off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Joann Bashinsky, auxiliary president. Visitors were allowed to tour the facility.

After the festivities, the girls visited the boutique to spend their hard-earned points.

The Big Oak Ranch Women’s Auxiliary supports the Big Oak Ranch by providing funds for physical needs as well as prayers and encouragement for the children and house parents. For more information about joining, visit www. bigoakauxiliary.com.

At a social to discuss the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama’s annual campaign were, from left, Alice Williams, Julie Carter and Lindsay Photo special to The Journal Larimer. leadership, healthy living, financial literacy, science and technology and outreach for more than 14,000 girls in 36 counties.

CEO Trish Coghlan and Alice Williams, resource development chairman, thanked the committee chairmen and reported that early fundraising efforts had generated more than $180,000.

The campaign will end by Labor Day and culminate in a donor celebration in October.

In conjunction with Big Oak Ranch’s ...

annual Appreciation Day for supporters, the Big Oak Ranch Women’s Auxiliary opened its new Boutique at the Girls’ Ranch.

At the boutique, residents of the ranch use points they earned, based on behavior and grades, to purchase items such as new clothes, purses, hair products and toys.

Ronald McDonald House Young Leadership Board president Keri Till and membership development chairman Ryan Jones helped with the “Shear Kindness” cut-a-thon.

Academy, Great Clips, Sports Clips, Regis Salon and Master Cuts gave haircuts in return for a donation to the Ronald McDonald House.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 19

Requested donations were $5 for children and $10 for adults.

The first-time event raised more than $2,700. ❖

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Families shopping at the Riverchase ...

Owned and Operated by Ned Grier

Galleria during Alabama’s sales tax holiday weekend stopped by the “Shear Kindness” haircut-a-thon benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama.

The event, supported by the Galleria, Aveda Institute and Penske, was Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in an empty department store at the mall.

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Betty Margaret, 375-2516 Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Aug., 2010

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������������������� Date:

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNA Aug. 26, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1

Photo special to The Journal

Please make sure all information is correc ���������������������������������������� including address and phone number! ���������������������������������������� Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. �������������������������������������� ������������������ ��������������������� Thank you for your prompt attention.

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20 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

FALL FASHIONS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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1. Meredith Towle shows off her fall fashion sense in a French Connection dress, $118; Olem boots, $29; Michael Star tank, $40; Michael Kors watch, $195; Hobo clutch (Mavis), $78; Initial necklace, $29; BOE earrings, $68; ring, $36; necklace, $12; bracelets, starting at $12. Private Gallery, 969-1559 2. Ashley Reynolds is ready for the cooler weather in a Paris Cowl Neck Tunic, $149; striped 360 Cashmere Hoodie, $278; Paris Ruffle Leggings $128; Paris Crossbody Purse, $218; Diane Cotton Necklaces, $300 each and Over the Knee Alberto Fermani Pewter Boots, $630.

Betsy Prince, 871-1965 3. Nan is wearing a MM Couture top, $88; Morrison Slim Boot Cut jeans in the Tempted wash by Citizens of Humanity, $165; bracelet, $88; and earrings, $68, by Catherine Popesco.

Soca Clothing, 879-6788 4. This group is ready to get moving in the great outdoors. Sarah Morrison is wearing Nike Tempo running shorts, $28; Pink

Nike running top, $40; and Mizuno running shoes $99.95. Swaim Davis is wearing a Spartan Football Tshirt, $16.95; Spartan football shorts, $24.95; Under Armour shoes, $49.95; and Phiten Necklace, $30. Mike Morrison is wearing Under Armour polo, $45; Under Armour shorts, $35; Mizuno running shoes, $100; and a Power Balance Bracelet, $30. Jesse Holt is wearing Nike Tempo running shorts, $22; a Mountain Brook Spartans T-shirt, $16.95; Asics running shoes, $64.95; Power Balance bracelet, $30; and Soleil Glow Flex watch, $14.95.

Mountain Brook Sporting Goods, 8703257 5. Heather Miller looks relaxed in Prana Sabin Racer Top, $46; Prana Lolita Yoga Pant in espresso, $74.95; LolĂŠ Essential Cardigan in berry, $90; and Vibram Performa Five Fingers in violet, $109. Alex Thacker is ready for some fun in Prana Buckeye Shirt, $55; Prana Dragon Coin Ringer Tee, $32; Prana Axiom Jean, $75; and Sector 9 Mainland Longboard, $165. Brandy Linton is headed back to school

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9 10

Fall Fashions Continued from Page 20 in style in Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T, $119; The North Face Jean in indigo blue, $95; Frye Harness 12R Boots, $217; and Patagonia Refugio Pack $75.

Mountain High Outfitters, 967-7607 (The Summit); 9853215 (Riverchase Galleria); 970-3300 (Cahaba Village) 6. Fall fashion forecasters say this year, it’s all about the boots. From left: cowboy boot “Denver” by Volatile $79.99; Pinky micro suede with hidden heel, brown “Gloria 21,” black “Gloria 72” and camel “Gloria 72” $29; and cowboy boot “Alma” by Pierre Dumas $49.99. Flip-Flops and What Nots, 967-7429 7. Tyler Davis looks smart and stylish wearing a Southern Point 100 percent Pima Cotton Baby Check Long Sleeve Shirt, $85 and Agave Men’s Pants, $195. Remon’s Clothier, 3289780 (downtown); 977-5512 (The Summit) 8. McKenna Welman looks sharp wearing a Linea Domani print top with exposed zippers, $86; AZI skinny knit jean, $108; Laurel Bassett handmade cuff, $118; earrings, $52. Town and Country Clothes, 871-7909 9. Jennifer is wearing a sleeveless black mock turtleneck by Trina Turk, $225, styled with a chevron print black and grey knit skirt by Trina Turk, $178, a skinny leather studded belt by Streets Ahead, $27, and a chocolate leather and blue fox purse by Sondra Roberts, $450.

Marella, 879-3999 10. Lauren Stewart looks fashion forward in a lightweight silk tweed dress by Kay Unger, $382, , classicly styled with flattering cap sleeves and belted waist in mustard, one of the bright new colors for fall.

Susanna Plaxco is wearing a charcoal wool blend pencil skirt

by MM Couture, $84 shown with a flirty little cotton swing jacket in mustard by Tulle, $76.

Lauren’s stone colored “Trinity” bag is from Hobo International’s Fall collection, $288 and her stone bead and chain necklace is $55. Susanna is carrying Hobo’s new black patent “Joselyn” purse, $228.

Lulie’s on Cahaba, 871-9696 11. Helen Walker, left, is wearing Citizens jeans, $45, a Nanette Lapore top, $22, with a Coach purse, $38. Lisa Stockdale is modeling Current/ Elliott jeans, $45, a Banana Republic top, $18, clogs by Dansko, $24 and a purse by Michael Kors, $85. Second Hand Rose, 987-7027 ❖

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 21

FASHION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

A Stylish Point of View

Local Designer’s Classic Clothing Line Takes Off

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

B

rent Howell has always had a passion for fashion. He just never really thought it would get him anywhere – until recently, that is.

About a year ago, Howell started his own men’s clothing line, Southern Point Co. His classic polos and button downs can now be seen in storefronts of retailers in Birmingham and all across the Southeast, and several prominent Alabamians have been seen wearing his new line.

Howell, an Enterprise native, moved to Birmingham shortly after graduating from the University of Alabama. He majored in real estate finance, the field he assumed he’d be working in. But after a few years in the business, he still couldn’t get rid of the fashion bug.

“I’ve always had this passion for clothes,” said the 26 year old.

“Clothes just make people happy.”

While some clothing lines tend to be a bit over the top, Howell’s line is anything but trendy. Instead, he stuck with this own timeless, Southern style when it came to his clothing line. He wanted pieces that anyone could wear, and he wanted them to be well made.

“I wanted them to be styles that people would still be wearing 10 years from now,” he said.

The line consists of polos, Tshirts and button downs. All of his clothes are branded with his nowpopular German shorthaired pointer standing at a point.

The logo was one of the first items of business Howell took care of when he decided to start his own clothing line. Inspired by timetested logos like Ralph Lauren’s polo player, he began searching for a logo that would best represent his Southern clothing line and something that he could believe in.

He found that something close to home – in his yard, in fact.

“I have a German shorthaired pointer, and I was looking outside and took a picture of her pointing,” Howell said. “It just made sense.

I love my dog, and I like hunting.

We also had a game room growing up with pictures of upperclassmen hunting with pointers.”

Now, Howell’s pointer, Greyton, is on every product produced by Southern Point and is also the namesake of his popular polo shirts.

After establishing the logo and design, Howell began soliciting retailers to carry his line. It was a daunting task at first, but his clothing line was quick to gain appeal

Brent Howell stands next to his Southern Point display in Remon’s Clothier at The Summit. The pullover is Journal photo by Laura McAlister new this year to his fall line.

“That’s still really the greatfrom high-end men’s retailers est thing, is being out and seeing across the Southeast. people wearing it,” Howell said.

To date, Southern Point is carSouthern Point is sold locally at ried in 50 men’s stores in 12 states. “It’s great to go to the store, and Mobley & Sons and Remon’s While the line is carried mainly in the retailer to have good comments.

Clothier.

It can also be found online the South, Howell does have retail- The best is just seeing people out at www.southernpointco.com. ers in Maryland and Michigan. everywhere wearing it.” ❖ Locally, the brand can be found at both Remon’s locations as well as Mobley & Sons in Crestline.

“We started carrying it right before Christmas last year,” said Hunt Mobley, owner of Mobley & Sons. “It’s been real popular. It has that local appeal. He (Howell) lives here in town.

Marella... It’s where your “It’s one of Birmingham’s only clothing lines, which is a little diffriends shop! ferent and unusual. It’s also a real quality-made garment. It has a Mountain Brook Village really nice fit.”

2417 Montevallo Road Howell’s shirts come in a vari205.879.3999 ety of colors and patterns, none too bold, of course. Some of his most www.cmvfashion.com popular are his polos and button downs in Alabama and Auburn colors.

It’s been just over a year since Howell started his Southern Point clothing line, and it seems to be catching on quickly. This fall, he plans to add another item to his line, a zip-up pullover in navy, as well as additional colors to his polos and T-shirts. Later in the year, he said, the line should also include hats and visors.

“We don’t want to grow too fast, but everything is just happening so quickly,” he said. “I just hired some reps to distribute and sell the line.

This is just not what I expected for the first year.”

He also never expected to see so many people walking around wearing his clothing line. In the past year, the son of Alabama gubernatorial candidate Robert Bentley was seen wearing the brand on the campaign trail, as was a state senator in Mobile.

Where to Find it

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22 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

Jones-Jett

Mr. and Mrs. Larry T. Jones of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Ashley Lauren, to Mr. Braxton Carter Jett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles

Puckett-Punch

Mrs. Leslie Clisby Puckett of Mountain Brook is pleased to announce the engagement of her daughter, Anne Ketchum, to Nicholas Albert Punch, son of Mrs. Johanna Cline Punch of Claremont, N.C. and Mr. Ron Wayne Punch of Dothan. Miss

McGough-Heinitsh

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hurley McGough announce the engagement of their daughter, Susan Amanda, to William Douglas Heinitsh, son of Ms. Monte Nicholson Parsons of Charleston, S.C. and Mr. Reginald Davies Heinitsh of Brevard, N.C. Miss McGough is the grand-

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS A. Jett Jr. of Greystone.

Miss Jones is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John F. Dodge of St. Louis and Mrs. Augustus Jones and the late Mr. Jones of LaVonia, Ga. She is a 2005 graduate of Bob Jones High School and a 2009 graduate of the University of Alabama. Miss Jones is employed with Somerby at 119 Greystone.

Mr. Jett is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. George E. Hyde of Greystone and Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Jett of Chelsea. He is a 2004 graduate of Briarwood Christian School and a 2008 graduate of the University of Alabama.

He is a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and is employed with Principle Pharmacy Group in Birmingham.

The wedding is planned for Sept. 18, 2010 at Shoal Creek.

Puckett is the daughter of Mr. James Chappell Puckett Sr. of Jackson, Mo. Miss Puckett is the granddaughter of the late Mr. Irwin Kilshaw Clisby of Mobile and the late Mrs. Anne Daniel Clisby of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Walter Puckett Sr. of Birmingham. She was presented at the Ball of Roses and is a member of the Ballet Guild of Birmingham.

Mr. Punch is the grandson of the late Mr. Norman Albert Cline and Mrs. Cline of Claremont, N.C. and the late Mr. Charles Everette Punch and the late Mrs. Gaudie Pope Punch of Claremont, N.C. Miss Puckett and Mr. Punch are employed at Boutwell Recording Studios in Birmingham.

A family wedding is planned for Oct. 16, 2010 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Mountain Brook. daughter of Mr. Edward Franklin Thomas and the late Mrs. Thomas and the late Mr. and Mrs. William Patrick McGough, all of Birmingham. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia and is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Susie was presented at the Krewe Ball, the Ball of Roses, and the Heritage Ball.

She is employed by Printpack, Inc. as a cost accountant in Hendersonville, N.C. Mr. Heinitsh is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Van Ness Parsons of Darlington, S.C. the late Mr. Reginald Davies Heinitsh of Lake Toxaway, N.C. and the late Mrs. Isabel Heinitsh of Columbia, S.C. He is a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and is a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Will is a real estate broker for Lake Toxaway Company in Lake Toxaway, N.C. The wedding is planned for Oct. 2, 2010 in Asheville, N.C.

Find out about an all-new way to share your wedding story with our readers.

E-mail us at editorial@otmj.com today or call 823-9646

Boger-Stinemetz

Chelsea Elizabeth Boger and Second Lieutenant Shane Kurt Stinemetz were married May 22, 2010 on the Veranda of The Tutwiler Hotel in Birmingham.

The Rev. Aaron Fleming II officiated. A reception followed in the Ridgely Ballroom.

Tyson-Crum

Laura Louise Tyson and William Barton Crum III were married July 10, 2010, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Montgomery. The Revs.

Robert Carew Wisnewski Jr. and Evan Douglas Garner officiated.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Martin Tyson Jr. and the granddaughter of Mrs. Thomas Martin Tyson and the late Mr. Tyson and the late Dr. and Mrs. John Allen Jones all of Montgomery.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Barton Crum Jr. He is the grandson of Drs. William Barton and Gertrude LaBotz Crum and Mrs. Marian Collum Skinner all of Montgomery and the late Zell Boyd Skinner. He is the great-grandson

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The bride is the daughter of Donna and David Boger of Vestavia Hills, and the granddaughter of Edith and Donat Lamoureux of Coventry, R.I. and Bernice and Henry Boger of Foxborough, Mass.

The groom is the son of Susan and Kurt Stinemetz of Prattville, and the grandson of Chayne and Larae Stinemetz of Seattle.

The bride was given in marriage by her father David Boger. She wore an ivory silk organza gown with a strapless sweetheart neckline, ruched bodice, dropped diagonal waist, and a full trumpet flared skirt. Her veil was elbow-length silk illusion. The bride’s sister, Miss Erica Boger of Vestavia Hills was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Miss Ashley Elliot and Miss Paige Fletcher of Vestavia Hills, Miss Chloe Woolsey of Hoover, Mrs. Elizabeth Harwell of Auburn, Miss Caroline Kelly of Tampa, Fla., Miss Brooke Slaughter of Wetumpka, and sisters of the groom Brynn and

Rhian Stinemetz of Prattville.

The groom’s brother Mr. Cade Stinemetz of Prattville, was his best man. Groomsmen were Mr. Chad Green of Alexander City, Mr. Jack Shannon of Montgomery, Mr. Charlie Hearn of Hoover, Mr. Chris Knight of Fairhope, Mr. Patrick Jackson of Niceville, Fla., Mr. Landon Rogers of Fairhope and Mr. Drew Tharp of Millbrook.

The bride is a graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and a cum laude graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is employed with Central Alabama OB-GYN Associates. The groom is a graduate of Edgewood Academy and Huntingdon College with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He is a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

After a honeymoon in the Bahamas the couple will live in Montgomery before relocating to Quantico, Va.

of Mrs. Richard LaBotz of Grand Rapids, Mich.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride chose the gown worn by her aunt, mother and two sisters. The gown designed by Mauer of New York and redesigned by Bridals by Penolia, was fashioned of ivory bridal satin and imported Alencon lace. The strapless empire bodice was appliqued with Alencon lace with motifs of the lace scattered over the skirt and cathedral train. She chose a veil of silk illusion that was worn by her two sisters.

Mary Alice Tyson Browning of Madison, Miss. and Wesley Tyson Westerkom of Decatur, Ga., the bride’s sisters, were the matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Elizabeth Crum Boyer, the groom’s sister, of Washington D.C., Lee Geddie Barcelona of Hampstead, N.C., Elizabeth Carroll Bearden of Savannah, Caroline Spencer Burchfield of Tuscaloosa, Sarah Walton Burchfield of New York, Carol Anne Hendrix of Atlanta, Elizabeth Russell Bloom, Mallory Watson Searcy, Mary Elizabeth Brown Walls of Montgomery, and Rebecca Cook Davis, Mary Margaret Harris Kemp, Allyson Tyson Mouron, the bride’s cousin, Mary Hunter Slaton, and Marlee Smith Terry of Birmingham. Flower girls were Virginia Hollon Browning, niece of the bride, of Madison Miss., and

Marguerite Ann Hammes, cousin of the groom of Milwaukee, Wis. The groom’s father served as best man. The groomsmen were John Paul Boyer, the groom’s bother-inlaw of Washington, D.C., Stephen Daniel Jones of Macon, Ga., Salime Alexander Zoghby III, the groom’s cousin of Mobile, William David Blakeney of Tuscaloosa, Drew Parker Brendle, Stephen Parrish Dees, John Walter Stowers Dunn, Bradford Bowen Liles, Herbert vonGal Stevenson, Fred White Tyson Jr., the bride’s cousin, Taylor Alexander Williams, Thomas Holloway Wool of Montgomery and Jack Cornelius Bushman, William Ross Davis, John Medlin Inzer, Lewis Patrick Mouron and Philip Allen Sellers of Birmingham. Ushers were Andrew Hughes Crum and Richard Eric Crum Jr., the groom’s cousins of Montgomery and Steven Phillip Browning of Madison, Miss. and Robert Richardson Westerkom of Decatur, Ga., the bride’s brother-inlaw.

Earle Conwell Hooper Jr., the bride’s cousin, was the crucifer and Emily Reid Parker of Atlanta read scripture. Music was provided by Dr. Harald Rohlig, organist, with Dr. Dennis Herrick on trumpet.

A reception followed at the Capital City Club. Following a honeymoon trip to Grenada, the couple resides in Birmingham.

MeGahee-Olsen

Pi sorority and was presented at the Krewe of Athenians Ball in Montgomery.

Mr. Olsen is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Olsen of McDonough, Ga. and Mr. and Mrs. Carter Hadley of Atlanta. He is a graduate of Auburn University with a degree in engineering and was a member of the Auburn University track and field team.

The bride works through Teach for America at Therrell High School in Atlanta.

The groom is employed with Turner Construction in Atlanta.

The wedding is planned for Oct. 2, 2010.

Mrs. Patti Stallings MeGahee of Birmingham and Mr. Chris MeGahee of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Carolyn Jean, to Zachary Trevor Olsen. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Olsen of Marietta, Ga. Miss MeGahee is the granddaughter of Mr. Dan R. Stallings Jr. and the late Jean Andrew Stallings of Montgomery and Mrs. Jerry MeGahee and the late J.C. MeGahee of Birmingham. She is a graduate of Auburn University with a degree in psychology. She was a member of Alpha Omicron

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

McTeer-Eubanks

Miss Pamela Sue McTeer and Mr. Andrew Elliott Eubanks were married Sept. 26, 2009 at Bayshore Mennonite Church, Sarasota, Fla. Pastor Jeff Weaver officiated.

A reception followed at The Rive House in Palmetto, Fla.

Bair-Jacques

Drs. Steven Lowell Bair and Renée Allen Peacock of Birmingham are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Sibyl Bair, to Mr. Richard Röell Jacques, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kevin Jacques of Nashville, Tenn.

Miss Bair is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Murray Willard Bair of Fort Wayne, Ind. and the late Dr.

Jones-Sims

Mrs. Robin Burgess Jones and Mr. Kim Douglas Jones of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Christine Jones, to Robert Elliott Sims, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Jemison Sims of

The bride’s parents are Mr. Bruce and Susie McTeer of Hoover. The groom’s parents are Mr. Richard and Margo Eubanks of Easley, S.C. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Bridesmaids were Liz McTeer, twin sister of the bride, Christine Leigh, Carrie Capuano all of Sarasota, Fla. and Crissy Herron, sister of the groom, of Cary, N.C., Honorary bridesmaids were Jennifer Huckabee of Bethesda, Md. and Amanda Criss of Calhoun City, Miss.

Mr. Eubanks chose his father as best man. Groomsmen were John “Jack” Williams, of Sylva, N.C., Brian Eubanks, bother of the groom, of Greenville, S.C. and Chad Herron, brother-in-law of the groom, of Cary, N.C. After a wedding trip to Blue Ridge, Ga. the couple will live in Bradenton, Fla. and Mrs. Charles Glenn Peacock.

Mr. Jacques is the grandson of Mrs. Peter John Kyne and Mr. John Francis Jacques of Nashville, Ms. Carole Thais Röell of Osterville, Mass. and Mr. Jonkheer Johan Willem Röell of Burns, Tenn.

Miss Bair is a 2004 graduate of Indian Springs School in Birmingham and graduated cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy from Vanderbilt University in 2008. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority.

Mr. Jacques is a 2004 graduate of Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in history and communication studies from Furman University in Greenville, S.C. in 2008. He was a member of Kappa Alpha Order.

Both Miss Bair and Mr. Jacques will receive a J.D. from Vanderbilt University Law School in 2011.

The wedding is planned for Oct. 2 at Highlands United Methodist Church in Birmingham.

Talladega.

The bride is the granddaughter of Mrs. Judy Taylor of Montevallo and Mr. Michael Burgess of Birmingham and Mrs. Melvin Jones and the late Mr. Jones of Birmingham. She is the great granddaughter of Mrs. Robert Lee Burgess and the late Mr. Burgess of Talladega.

Miss Jones is a graduate of the University of Alabama.

The groom is the grandson of Dr. and Mrs. Donald Carl of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Dark Sims of Talladega. He is a student at Jacksonville State University.

The bride is employed with the Shelby County School System. The groom is employed at the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind.

A wedding is planned for Oct. 23, 2010.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 23

WEDDINGS & ENGEGEMENTS

Huber-Antonio

Caroline Richards Huber and Jake Joseph Antonio IV of Atlanta, were married July 17 at First Presbyterian Church in Winston Salem, N.C. The Rev. Jim Reed and Greg Lisson officiated.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Scott Huber of WinstonSalem, N.C. Her grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. William A. Mehler Jr. of Lancaster, Pa. and the late Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Frederick Huber of Lancaster, Pa. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics from Princeton University.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jake Joseph Antonio III of Birmingham. His grandparents are Mrs. Joseph Peter Sherman of Greenville, Miss. and the late Mr. Joseph Peter Sherman and Mr. and Mrs. Jake Joseph Antonio Jr. of Birmingham. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from

DeRosa-Carter

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph John DeRosa of Birmingham, announce the engagement of their daughter, Meredith Lindsay, to Jeremy Daniel Carter, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Daniel Carter of Brimingham.

Miss DeRosa is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry V. Bragg of Huntsville and the late Mr. and Mrs. John DeRosa of New York.

She attended Samford University.

Mr. Carter is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Wilkinson of Birmingham and Mrs. Hoyt Carter and the late Mr. Carter of Birmingham. He is a graduate of Samford University.

The bride is employed in Birmingham. The groom is cofounder of Good Story, Inc., a design firm in Birmingham.

The wedding is planned for Oct. 9, 2010 at Swann Lake Farm.

the University of Georgia.

The bride was escorted by her father. The maids of honor were Elizabeth Williams Huber, the bride’s sister, of Winston-Salem, N.C. and Emily Elizabeth Lineberger of Arlington, Va. The bridesmaids were Jennifer Marie Antonio, the groom’s sister, of Birmingham, Laurel Anne Chason of Atlanta, Cameron Weaver Dunlap and Erin Elmore Pfeiffer of Winston-Salem, N.C., Suzanne Lang Rossi of Philadelphia, Pa. and Jennifer Sherwood Walker of Charlottesville, Va. The flower girls were Caroline and Amelia Thomas.

The best men were the groom’s father and brother, Jonathan Sherman Antonio of Charlotte, N.C.

The groomsmen were the bride’s brother, Robert Frederick Huber of London, Michael Angelo Mannina of Washington, D.C., Ilya Alexander Gokhman, Stephen Michael McGuire, Evan Thomas Pellegrino and Joseph Bailey Pouns all of Atlanta. The ushers were the groom’s cousin, Michael Philip Richards and Anthony Joseph D’Alessandro both of Birmingham and James Lee McKeel Jr. of Atlanta.

The reception was held at Forsyth Country Club, and a rehearsal dinner was hosted by the groom’s parents at Old Town Country Club, both in Winston-Salem.

The couple teach and coach at Wesleyan School in Norcross, Ga. and live in Atlanta.

24 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

SCHOOL

Pizitz Squad Attends UCA Summer Camp

Fourteen band students from Liberty Park Middle School were chosen for the 2010 UAB Honor Band. The band is under the direction of Travis Bender. Those selected were, from left, front: Lucas Christian, Andrew Caskey, Lee Watterson, Bender, Madeline Kundler, Adelyn Watterson, Isabella Trierweiler and Skyler Hassler. Back: A.J. Pilkerton, Dezmond Spencer, Zoe Allen, Paris Malensek, Janet Roberts, Mary Catherine Photo special to The Journal Cook and Kendra Mitchell.

The 2010-2011 Pizitz Middle School cheerleaders attended the Universal Cheerleaders Association camp at Auburn University in June.

Both seventh and eighth grade squads received top honors. The seventh grade won second place in extreme routine and third place in “home pom” and cheer. The eighth grade squad won first place in fight song, cheer and extreme routine and second place in “home pom.”

The Pizitz squad also received the Spirit Stick.

Pizitz cheerleaders selected as All-Stars were Gianna Blaudeau, Taylor Evans, Grace Redden and Elson Stewart.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Above, Pizitz seventh grade cheerleaders are, from left, first row: Grace Redden, Elson Stewart, Bailey Johnson. Second row: Libby Dyess, Olivia Head, Ashlyn Lovell, Kaylie Anne Costa, Paige Castleberry.

Third row: Madison McCaw, Taylor Trowbridge, Abigail Albritton, Catherine Carroll, Savannah Flowers and Hanna Boge. Below, Pizitz eighth grade cheerleaders are, from left, first row: co-captain Libby Franks, captain Savannah McCallum, captain Taylor Evans, co-captain Katie Brown. Second row: Haley Miller, Caroline Tieszen, Pate Hudson, Too crowded. Phone num���������������� Carley Bivin, Ann-Martin Alexander. Third row: Gianna Blaudeau, ������������������ ber is too small. Can’t readEchols, Elizabeth Bennett, Abby Grace Champion and Maci Hannah 1. University Trained Teachers it. Delete the pic ofSadler. the Photo special to The Journal 2. Professional Music School Facility 3. Well Planned Curriculums Hoover Belles 2010 were boyforplaying piano and reset 4. Safe, Supervised, Family Friendly Environment presented at the Wynfrey the phoneHotel in a large font in Ballroom May 2. * PIANO * KEYBOARD a better place. Also, delete * GUITAR * BASS The new Belles include * DRUMS * VOICE Mallory Jean Allums, daughter “New Pre-school music * BAND * BRASS Ask About our NO RISK of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wayne program”. * WOODWIND Instrument Rental Program!

Allums; Caroline Elizabeth * VIOLIN �������������������������� Borgini, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael John Borgini; Caroline Grace Brennan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Francis Brennan; Ashley Elizabeth Brown, daughter of Call Now To Register For Fall Classes! Visit our web site at www.birminghamschoolofmusic.com Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Brown; Kaitlin Jane Byerly, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Edward Byerly; Emily Michelle Culberson, daughter of Mr. and of Ms. Tracy Williams Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Lee Jay; Mrs. Michael Scott Culberson; and Mr. James Benjamin Phillips; Taylor Janette Keith, daughter ���� ���� Allie Elizabeth Gilbert, daughter Molly Katherine Porter, daughter of Mrs. Angela Janette Rogers ������� ������������������������������������������������� of Mr. and Mrs. Paul William of Mr. and Mrs. William Allen and Mr. Randall Burton Keith; Gilbert; Johanna Catherine � ������������������� Anna Elizabeth Kirkland, daugh- Porter; Emma Catherine Puchta, Graham, daughter of Mr. and ������� ����� ter of Mr. and Mrs. William H. daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kyle Mrs. Ronald Lane Graham; Kirkland, Jr.; Albert Puchta; Kathryn Hanley Gunderson, ������������������������������������������������������������������ Kathryn Elizabeth Leventry, Makenzie Reed Rath, daughdaughter of Mr. and Mrs. John �������������������������������������������������������������������� daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard ter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Todd Douglas Gunderson; Mary Claire Leventry; Ellen Holman Marsh, Rath; Molly Scott Rehmert, Hamner, daughter of Mr. and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rory ��������������������������������������������� Mrs. Jason Bryant Hamner; Gregory Marsh; Anna Claire Scott Rehmert; Victoria DeMarse �����������������������������������Catherine Francesca Harris, McCluney, daughter of Mr. Robinson, daughter of Mr. and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel and Mrs. R. George McCluney Mrs. Richard Hopkins Robinson Ray Harris; Caroline Elizabeth III; Katherine Jane Meredith, Jr.; Anna Rebecca Sanford, �������������������������������������������� Holmes, daughter of Mr. and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David daughter of Mr. and Mrs. ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� Mrs. James Lewis Holmes; Kyler Lawrence Meredith; Callie Michael Craig Sanford; Margaret �������������������������������������������������� Ashton Isabelle, daughter of Mr. Brooke Newton, daughter of Mr. Frances Seeley, daughter of Mr. ������������������������������������ and Mrs. Dale Wilson Isabelle; and Mrs. Michael Kevin Newton; and Mrs. David John Seeley; Alexandra Lee Jay, daughter of Kelsey Merle Phillips, daughter Mary Scott Shelton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Marlon Shelton; Sarah Kaitlyn Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Keith Smith; Olivia Nicole Tofani, daughter of Lt. Col. and Mrs. Peter Michael Tofani; Sarah Jayne Traylor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dave Thomas Traylor; Martha Caroline Veazey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Randall Veazey and Kristine Karla Ward, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Hardey Ward.

The Hoover Belle committee includes chairman Cathy Head, vice chairman Laura Boyd, Jennie Alley, Shirley Anderson, The Hoover Belles for 2010 were presented at a May luncheon at the Sandra Barnett, Suzette Foster, Jan Pruitt, Becky Walker and Kay Photo special to the Journal Wynfrey Hotel.

Witt. ❖

Music Lessons For All Ages

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Hoover 2010 Belles Presented

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 25

SCHOOL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Performing in a conga line at Homewood’s Fire Station #1 are, from left: Chelsea Piper, Chris Schiller, Bryan Lucas, Sara Harrell, Jessica Chriesman, Abby Lucy and Katharine Buckley.

They were participating in a scavenger hunt for the Our Lady of Sorrows high school youth group.

Photo special to The Journal

Boy Scout Troop 63 from Canterbury Methodist Church in Mountain Brook sent a contingent to the Philmont Boy Scout Ranch in New Mexico this summer. The scouts spent 11 days in the mountains and hiked about 75 miles. In front, from left are: Russell Galloway and Norman Jetmundsen. Back row: Dudley Dickerson III, Robert Ezell, Dudley Dickerson IV, Taylor Jetmundsen, Trip Galloway, and Parker Photo special to the Journal Morrow.

Riverchase Elementary Counselor Retires Carolyn Puryear, Riverchase Elementary School counselor, announced her retirement after 21 years with Alabama state schools, including six years with Mountain Brook and 15 with Hoover.

Before moving to Alabama, she was a high school counselor in Carolyn Puryear Mississippi.

Puryear helped principal Dianne Baggett open Riverchase Elementary six and half years ago.

She was instrumental in coordinating the Red Ribbon Drug Awareness Week, Buddy Program for new students, Character Education with Chick-Fil-A and the Veterans Day ceremony. She received a national award for her Veterans Day program from the Freedom Foundation at Valley

Forge.

One of the things she most enjoyed was coordinating the career fair for fifth grade students. She had speakers participate in the event for more than 15 years.

Puryear is a graduate of Mississippi University for Women and has a master’s degree in education/counseling from Mississippi College.

She is planning to spend her free time enjoying retirement with her husband, Harry, and her two daughters and four granddaughters.

Patti Tanner is the new counselor at Riverchase. During her 13 years as an educator, she has worked in Mobile and Fort Worth, Texas, and as a first grade teacher at Riverchase Elementary.

Foundation Supports New Homewood School Teachers

The Homewood City Schools Foundation supported new teacher orientation by paying stipends for teachers who attended the professional learning sessions and for the luncheon at the end of the event.

Sessions at the two-day orientation featured topics such as assessment, technology, classroom management and differentiated instruction. The sessions were led by both school administrators and instructional advisors.

At the end of the event, participants attended a celebration luncheon at the Rotunda Club at Samford University.

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A dozen teenagers were on the hunt in Homewood July 30. They were participating in a photo scavenger hunt sponsored by Our Lady of Sorrows Church youth ministries.

With cameras and directions in hand, two teams of six performed a variety of tasks, some of which required the cooperation of strangers.

“It was fun running around the city asking strangers for help,” said Jessica Chriesman, 17. “We got to see people’s generosity.”

The evening included a pizza dinner and a showing of the photos taken by both teams. Chelsea Piper, director of youth ministries at OLS, joined in the activity with the teens. ❖

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26 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

SPORTS

Collier at the Capstone

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Hannah Collier was one of the state’s dominant high school golfers during her years at Spain Park, winning the individual title and leading the Lady Jaguars to the Class 6A team title in 2009.

Former Jags Star Begins College Career

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

W

hen school officially opened at the University of Alabama last week, Hannah Collier was in many ways a typical freshman, starting new classes, making new friends and learning her way around campus.

But unlike most other freshmen, Collier will be spending many of her afternoons at golf courses. As a new member of the Crimson Tide’s women’s golf team, she begins her collegiate career with high expectations and even higher goals.

Collier was one of the state’s dominant high school golfers during her years at Spain Park, winning the individual title and leading the Lady Jaguars to the Class 6A team title in 2009. Later that year, she committed to Alabama.

“I liked everything about Alabama when I was being recruited,” Collier said, when contacted on the way to a mathematics class last week. “And so far, I haven’t seen anything to make me change my mind.”

As is the case with almost all scholarship athletes at the college

level, Collier’s new schedule will have few allowances for free time.

It’s a constant regimen of workouts, meals, class and study time, sleep and, of course, golf. Collier works out twice a week at 7:15 a.m. in a gymnasium near Coleman Coliseum and spends many afternoons at the University’s stateof-the-art Jerry Pate Golf Center at the Ol’ Colony Golf Course in Tuscaloosa.

Even though the official college golf season doesn’t begin until spring, Collier said she can already notice the difference in the quality of play in college as opposed to high school.

“The college players can drive the ball a lot further and have a lot more experience,” she said. “It’s a much higher level of play.”

Collier, a communications major, said her goals for her freshman year were simple.

“I just want to play to the best of my ability, and do as well as I can in whatever tournament I’m playing,” she explained. “Most of all, I just want to help the team.”

Alabama’s autumn season begins with the NCAA Fall Preview Tournament at the Traditions Golf Club in Bryan, Texas, Sept.13-15.

Photo special to the Journal

“We have four tournaments in the fall that might give us a good idea about where we are as a team,” said Collier. “Then, the main season comes in the spring.”

Her dream of playing college golf began at age 10, when she fell in love with the game following a trip to a youth golf camp.

Collier’s skills and passion for the game intensified, and by 2007, she scored her first-ever American Junior Golf Association vic-

tory, winning the Junior All-Star Championship at Walnut Creek Country Club in Texas.

Collier may have first turned the heads of local golf fans at the end of her sophomore year at Spain Park, when she finished second in the Alabama High School Athletic Association individual championships. She lost to defending champ Haley Wilson of Central-Phenix City by only four shots, making it clear that her star was rising.

The next season, Collier and her teammates reached the top. With a final round of three-under-par 69, she shot a two-day total of 141 at Capitol Hill Club in Prattville, the lowest final score in the history of AHSAA girls’ tournament play since its inception in 1972.

In addition to winning the individual title, Collier’s impressive score helped Spain Park to its first-ever girls’ golf state championship.

With those kinds of credentials, it was no surprise that Collier was recruited by virtually every school in the Southeastern Conference before choosing Alabama last November.

But all of that is behind her.

Now Collier is focused on the future.

“The competition is great, but so are the opportunities,” she said.

“SEC golf is about as good as it gets in college. It’ll be interesting to see what I can do.”

If the past is any indication, Hannah Collier has great things ahead.

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The 7-Year Old Shades Mountain Park National All Star Team Wins Metro Championship

Shades Mountain Park defeated Mountain Brook 17-5 in the championship game. Team members are: Josh Lundy, Will Whisenhunt, Slade McCraw, Tyler Waugh, Robby Ashford, Landon Dickson, James Broderick, Conner Eberhardt, Evan Warren, Pierce Covin, Tyner Patterson and Carter Miliron. The coaches are David Eberhardt, Joseph Lundy, Danny Warren and Mike McCraw.

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Birmingham Mustangs Win Softball World Series

The Birmingham Mustangs 11U Fastpitch Softball Team won the USSSA 11U World Series

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held in Akron, Ohio in July. The team members are made up of girls from several areas including Mountain Brook, Gardendale, and Pinson.

Team members above, are, front row, from left: McKinley Hamilton; Reilly Bryant; Sabrina Russell (All Tournament Team); Allye Lott (All Tournament Team); Reagan Welch (All Tournament Team) and Katie Moore.

Middle row, from left: Leila

Allen (All Tournament Team); Baleigh Moffett (All Tournament Team); Karlee Johnson; Sarah Winston Nathan (Tournament Most Valuable Player and Tournament Outstanding Pitcher); Destinee Cole (Tournament Offensive Most Valuable Player); Adele Bird (All Tournament Team).

Back row, from left, Coaches: Jason Cole; Alan Lott; Bill Allen; Jeremy Manning; Brian Bryant (head coach).

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Eagles,

from back cover “You don’t envision a big quarterback like that at a 1A football team,” Loudermilk said. “David has been the nucleus of our team for a while now.

“He’s a very talented kid with a strong arm. And he’s a very good linebacker, too. He loves contact.

“We look for big things out of David. Senior leadership is a focal point, but what we’re really looking for is just a guy who can command the offense. David is doing that for us.”

Junior Kyle Nation returns as the starting fullback and also will play several positions on defense.

“Kyle is a little sparkplug,” Loudermilk said. “He’s a small guy, but he runs hard and plays with a lot of emotion. He’s a competitor. He will be a rover for us on defense.

“He’s kind of a hybrid guy.

He’s an outside linebacker, a safety and corner all in one. He can run and cover people, but we also like what he provides against the rush.”

Senior Justin Simmons will line up at the wingback position on offense and at cornerback on defense. He’ll also return kicks.

“Justin is our speedster,” Loudermilk said. “He has that extra gear that coaches like to talk about -- that extra button where when he decides he’s going to turn it on, there’s nobody who can catch him.

“That will really help us in a lot of ways. It’s our job as coaches to find ways to put him in position to get the ball.”

Loudermilk said he expects senior Nick Holt to have an

Anderson, from back cover

If you don’t believe it, you should see Anderson get mistyeyed when talking about receiving a letter or e-mail from a former player serving in Iraq or Afghanistan. Or see him show off a photo of the newborn son or daughter of an ex-Rebel he has just received.

What may tell you the most about Anderson’s relationship with his athletes, however, is to look down the team’s present-day roster and note how many of their fathers played for Vestavia.

The times may have changed, but Anderson said the needs of teenage boys are much the same as they were in the 1970s.

“They are still looking for love, acceptance, and to be a part of something bigger than themselves,” said the coach, when contacted earlier this month. “The things they take away from the experience of playing football will always be with them.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010 • 27

SPORTS

teams athletically.

2010 Shades Mountain Christian “On defense he’ll come off High School Football Schedule the edge and be part of our passDate Opponent Location rush packages.”

The offenAug. 27 Parkway Away sive line will Sept. 3 Pickens Cty Away be anchored by senior cenSept. 10 Autaugaville Away ter Preston Williamson Sept. 17 Maplesville Home and junior Jack Sept. 24 Thorsby HC Spink.

“Preston is Oct. 1 Holy Spirit Home not the biggest guy, but he’s defOct. 8 Sunshine Home initely the most knowledgeOct. 15 Keith Away able and a great Oct. 22 John Essex Home technician,” Loudermilk Oct. 29 Isabella Away said. “We take a lot of pride in allowing Preston to call our offensive fronts and get the rest of our linemen on the same page.

“He’ll play linebacker on 2009 record: 3-7 defense. He really has a nose for Head coach: Jonathan the ball.

Loudermilk “Jack Spink is the strongest Stadium: Bob Finley player on the team. He’s a weightStadium room warrior, a fierce competitor.

Region: Class 1A, Region 4 He’s just a football player. That’s Region opponents: Pickens the biggest compliment I can pay County, Autaugaville, Jack.

Maplesville, Holy Spirit, “He can line up and play center, Sunshine, Keith, John Essex guard, tackle. You could put him at fullback. He’ll also start at defenincreased role with the team this sive end. He has a great motor year, both at receiver and line- and is a very tough, hard-nosed player. We expect good things out backer.

“Nick did some great things at of him.”

Loudermilk also is looking to the end of last season,” Loudermilk receive key contributions from said. “He’s a big-bodied receiver defensive backs J.P. Curren and (6-3, 200 pounds). We’d like to Henry Waite, as well as offensive think we could take our shots with lineman David Belcher. him several times a game and see The one off-season change that how he matches up with other might help Shades Mountain is the

program’s move from Class 2A to 1A. All three of the Eagles’ victories last season came against 1A teams, while they went 0-7 against 2A opponents.

“We think we can compete with just about everybody we have on our schedule this time around,”

“In life, when they get in a tough situation, they’ll draw on the lessons learned practicing and working together as part of a team.”

Anderson says football is important, but at the high school level, so are other things.

“If our players get a chance over the summer to take a church mission trip or go on a family vacation, we urge them to do so,” he said. “They are only going to be in high school one time.

“Football is a great activity, but we want them to have other good experiences as well.”

For all his success on the field, in many ways Anderson is a throwback to a different era of high school athletics. He remembers the days when there was more camaraderie among opposing coaches and considers the late Berry coach Bob Finley to be one of his personal heroes. Finley’s Bucs and Anderson’s Rebels battled tooth and nail for area superiority annually for nearly 20 years, but Anderson said it never got personal.

the same church.

“Those games against the neighboring schools are what high school sports are supposed to be about. So that’s why we’ll play them year in and year out.”

Loyalty is another old-school tradition in which Anderson still believes. Some members of his present staff have been with him since the 1970s. Peter Braasch has been Vestavia’s defensive coordinator since Anderson has been a head coach.

“We’ve always looked at our coaching staff like a family,”

Quick Facts

“There was great respect on both sides,” Anderson recalled.

Anderson has always had an acute understanding that community rivalries are the lifeblood of high school athletics. While some coaches may like the idea of playing a top-tier program in a neighboring state, Vestavia believes that competition begins at home.

Every season, the Rebels’ schedule is filled with traditional neighborhood rivals, whether they are in the same region or not.

For example, Vestavia has played Mountain Brook every year since 1971. The Rebels have played Homewood every year since 1972.

And while those intense backyard rivalries might result in brisk ticket sales, Anderson said that’s not the main reason he puts them on the schedule.

“These games are important to our kids,” Anderson explained.

“They know a lot of the guys on the other Over-the-Mountain teams because they played either with or against them when they were younger, or they might go to

Carter,

from back cover The highlight may well have been Hoover’s 28-23 win over Prattville in Tuscaloosa’s Bryant-Denny Stadium in the 6A state championship game, as the Bucs ended the Lions’ 54game in-state winning streak.

Carter’s 41-yard touchdown pass to Maudrecus Humphrey started Hoover on a roll that Prattville couldn’t quite overcome.

“We were so proud to win for all the guys that came before us,” said Carter. “We were able to get ahead early, and our defense hung on at the end.”

The biggest test of all, however, may have come in the season’s sixth game, when Hoover overcame a 21-0 halftime deficit to defeat cross-town rival Spain Park 24-21. Carter completed 17 of 28 passes for 220 yards and a touchdown.

Perhaps more importantly, he completed 10 of his final 11 passes for 149 yards and calmly drove the Bucs to the Jaguar 12-yard line, setting up the game-winning field goal with three seconds remaining.

“The Spain Park game gave us a lot of confidence,” Carter said. “It showed us we could come from far behind and beat a good team. That helped us the

Loudermilk said. “A lot of times when you get knocked down and beat up pretty good, you get a sense that it’s a perpetual cycle that you’re never going to get out of.

“Moving down to 1A should help give us a competitive edge.” rest of the way.”

Now Carter returns as one of the region’s most experienced and respected quarterbacks.

“I feel like I need to be a leader for the team,” he said.

“I’m not going to do a lot of yelling and screaming. I’d rather be a leader by example.”

Carter was a leader in the off-season as well. He put himself through a rigorous weight training program and gained 20 pounds.

“I’m up to about 195 now,” he said. “I was kind of wiry as a kid. The extra 20 pounds made me stronger and helps me get a little more zip on the ball.”

The regimen must have paid off, as Carter showed no signs of rust in Hoover’s 44-7 jamboree victory over Northridge last week. He completed five of seven passes for 130 yards, including an 87-yard touchdown strike to Jaylon Denson.

Carter admits he would like to follow in the footsteps of many previous Hoover quarterbacks and move on to play at the collegiate level. But that’s a priority for another time.

“I’d love to play college football, but I can’t think about that now,” he said. “I want to go out and have a great senior year and we’ll see what happens.”

Ryan Carter is bound to have a great senior year. After all, he’s living his childhood dream. said Anderson, who also serves as athletic director. “We’ve always worked together and tried to help one another when we could.”

Although Anderson – now a proud grandfather – turned 60 this year, he said retirement is not on the radar.

“I really don’t have any hobbies, and I love what I do,” he said with a smile. “I’m here as long as the athletic director wants me.”

Lots of things have changed at Vestavia Hills High School in 39 years, but Buddy Anderson isn’t going to be one of them.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2010

Carter Country

Sports

Birmingham Mustangs Bring Home World Series Softball Championship.

See Page 26

Hoover’s QB Is Living the Dream

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

L

ike many little boys, Ryan Carter knew what he wanted to be when he got older.

But in Carter’s case, he didn’t want to be a cowboy, a firefighter or an astronaut. He wanted to be the quarterback of the Hoover Buccaneers.

Carter began following Hoover football at an early age and idolized the Bucs’ impressive line of quarterbacks, from John Parker Wilson to Jarod Bryant to Ross Wilson. And Carter knew he wanted to be heir to the great tradition.

“It’s pretty much what I grew up setting my sights on,” said Carter, when contacted last week.

“Being the quarterback at Hoover is all I wanted to be for as long as I can remember. I would watch them play and think, ‘That’s going to be me one day.’ ” Carter is living his childhood dream. As a junior last season, he quarterbacked the Bucs to their first Class 6A championship since 2005. And Carter will be the sig-

nal-caller when Hoover opens its season against Byrnes of South Carolina Friday night.

“Last year was so special to be able to bring the championship trophy back to Hoover,” he said.

“We had come so close in the past two years but just didn’t make the plays.

“It’s always hard to repeat a championship, but if we take one game at a time, we’ll be okay.”

Carter enters the 2010 season in a much different situation than he did a year ago. This time last season, he was the Bucs’ big question mark as a quarterback with virtually no varsity game experience.

Those doubts vanished almost immediately, as Carter stepped up to the position. Leading Hoover’s complicated pass-oriented offense, he completed 238 out of 383 passes – a 62 percent rate – for 3,188 yards and 34 touchdowns with only 12 interceptions.

Carter was effective on the ground as well, gaining 298 yards on 86 attempts for five touchdowns.

See Carter, page 27

Good Move Shades Mountain Christian

Coach Likes Team’s Shift to 1A

BY CARY ESTES

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

T

he biggest concern for second-year Shades Mountain Christian head coach Jonathan Loudermilk this season is turnovers, both on and off the field.

Loudermilk said the Eagles’ inability to hang on to the football was a primary contributor to their 3-7 record last season. He said there were at least three games that Shades Mountain could have won had the team simply taken care of the ball.

Win those three, and suddenly the Lions are 6-4 instead of 3-7.

“We couldn’t hold on to the football. It didn’t matter who touched it, everybody seemed to

Lee Davis

39-Grand:

Anderson Still Lives For His Players and the Game

B

will continue to grow, and we’ll stop making some of those first-day mistakes.”

The problem is, a lot of the players who learned those lessons from last season are not around to help Shades Mountain this year. That is where the off-the-field turnovers come into play. Loudermilk said the Eagles lost 25 varsity players from the 2009 team, approximately half their roster.

“I wish I could say we’ve learned a lot, but we’ve had a lot of turnover,” Loudermilk said.

“We have a whole new look. We look like a different team.

“We have a few of the old components back, and that’s important because I know what to expect of those guys. But we have a lot of new faces, a lot of young faces who have to come in right away and contribute.”

The core of the team this year will be a half-dozen returning players who will line up on both sides of the ball. They will be led by 205-pound senior David Reeves, who will start at quarterback and linebacker.

uddy Anderson has seen a lot of things change in his 39 years at Vestavia Hills High School.

For one thing, the cramped coaches’ office of 1972 is a sprawling athletic complex in 2010. The football stadium is different as well, as natural grass has been replaced with a prescription athletic turf.

But the other difference about the stadium that should tell you everything about the last four decades at Vestavia is its name: Thompson Reynolds Stadium at Buddy Anderson Field.

That’s because, next to the late Thompson “Mutt” Reynolds, the school’s first head football coach and athletic director, no one has had a greater influence on the Rebel program than Anderson.

When Anderson was promoted from an assistant’s position to be head coach in 1978, some Vestavia boosters were disappointed. They wanted a so-called “big name” coach.

Thirty-two years later, there is no bigger name in Alabama high school athletics than the former Samford University star.

Anderson has chalked up more than 250 victories and two state titles in 32 seasons as head coach, but he insists that his purpose is about far more than championships and trophies.

“God called me to do this,” he said recently. “This isn’t a job.

It’s a calling.”

See Eagles, page 27

See Anderson, page 27

Leading Hoover’s complicated pass-oriented offense, Ryan Carter completed 238 out of 383 passes – a 62 percent rate – for 3,188 yards and 34 touchdowns with only 12 interceptions last season. Journal file photo

fumble it once,” Loudermilk said. “We’ve really tried to stress to them that you can’t be competitive if you can’t hold on to the ball.”

Two games in particular summarized the team’s turnover struggles, said the coach.

Against American Christian, the Eagles had a chance to tie the game just before halftime but lost a fumble in the red zone. American Christian pulled away in the second half for a 29-3 victory.

A nearly identical situation occurred a few weeks later, where a chance for victory literally slipped through the Eagles’ fingers as a close game against Thorsby turned into a 28-6 loss.

“We came out like gangbusters in the first half of those games, and we just couldn’t finish,” Loudermilk said. “We were competitive but just shot ourselves in the foot. Anyone can run a ball, but it takes somebody with a little mental toughness and some focus to hold on to it.

“Those are some of the things we’ve harped to our guys about. You have to be tough, and you have to do the little things. Over time, you like to think that as a program develops, kids

INSIDE: Our 2010 OTM High School Football Preview 24-Page Pull-out Special Section!

Team Profiles, Schedules, Team Photos, Rosters, Key Players to Watch and More!