Nov 28 full issue

The Suburban Newspaper for Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

inside

JOU RNAL otmj.com

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ursd ay, november 28, 2013

Vol . 23 #23

Homes

Red Mountain Garden Club hosts annual Greenery Sale

about town page 6

for the

Holidays ’Tis the Season: OTM communities plan holiday events

about town page 8

A Special Blessing: This family is thankful for finding each other

life page 16

Vicki Perry replaced the living room’s massive limestone fireplace with this wood-paneled one, which she found at Robert Hill Antiques. A leather screen on the wall nearby is painted with a pastoral scene. Four homes in Redmont Park and one in Mountain Brook will be open for this year’s Independent Presbyterian Church’s Holiday House Tour. The annual event is set for Dec. 14 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Dec. 15 from 1-5 p.m. Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

At Home with History

Imperial Accents: Maestro’s Ball has Russian theme

IPC Tour House Has Deep Roots in Redmont

social page 21

By Donna Cornelius

Journal features writer

Holiday Highlight:

See Perry, page 34

Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

IPC House Tour Includes Redmont,

Vicki and Marvin Perry have Mountain Brook Homes. Page 35 owned their Redmont Park house for only seven years. But Vicki’s connection to the historic Birmingham neighborhood goes back much further—in fact, to Redmont’s beginnings.

“My grandfather, Hill Ferguson, developed Redmont with Robert Jemison,” Vicki said.

As a child, Vicki was a frequent visitor to her Ferguson grandparents’ home on Altamont Road, she said, and to Forest Park, where her other grandparents lived on Essex Road.

Although she grew up in Decatur, “I spent a lot of time in Birmingham and in

Overseas Inspiration:

Yanceys’ Mediterranean-style Home Is On Legacy League Tour. Page 30

Seasonal Showcases:

Legacy League Tour Features Five Homes. Page 32

Holiday Gift Guide Pages 36-39

mayfield Concert To Help Homeless P. 4 • hoover passes new budget p. 15 • poinsettia debs named p. 20 • sweet home alabama p. 46

2 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Opinion/Contents

A Family Affair

murphy’s law

I From left: Beth Rooney, Janet Rooney and Frances Rooney.

Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

The Alabama Youth Ballet Company’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 14 and 15 with be a family affair.

Three generations of dancers from one Over the Mountain family will perform in the holiday classic ballet, along with several other Over the Mountain dancers.

For the full story, see page 17.

Correction: In our last issue the names of Betty Pewitt and Phillip Alder were misspelled. We regret the error.

On otmj.com Browse through more photos from the season’s most festive parties and take a look at what’s ahead for the holidays in our area.

Coming Dec. 12

Up next, we’ll feature artwork from students in Over the Mountain schools in our annual Holiday Card issue.

in this issue About Town 4 News 14 Life 16 People 17 Social 20

Home 30 Gift Guide 36 Weddings 45 Schools 46 Sports 52

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L November 28, 2013

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Keysha Drexel Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Interns: Taylor Burgess, Ginny Cooper Vol. 23, No. 23

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

Copyright 2013 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Call It a Wrap

because I want my grandson to be surdon’t know how Santa does prised, but I can tell you this: the Ninja it. Make a list of who’s been Turtles will no longer be homeless. naughty and who’s been nice.

But I only have a handful of difficult Check it once, check it twice. I wrapping situations. The elves have to get all that. It’s just good business be up to their pointy little ears in them. practice. And it’s not like he has My guess is that the tough jobs go to to guess what the kids want. They the lower level elves. You know, they are very specific about what they spend a few years wrestling with Nerf would like to find under the tree. guns and basketball hoops before they They might change their minds a make it to the puzzle and board game million times beforehand, but when elite. The low elf on the totem pole they put pen to paper with “Dear wraps the Sit ’n Spins. Or the trampoSanta,” time’s up. As a child, I lines. would copy down item numbers Miles of wrapping paper, yards from the Sears Roebuck Christmas and yards of tape. I don’t know where catalog and add them to the bottom Sue Murphy Santa gets it all (there may be an inof my letter, you know, just to save house printing facility), but he could the guy a little time.

My guess is that the really make some third-grader’s day Today’s kids probably just send him an Amazon link. tough jobs go to the if he ordered it all from an elementary school fundraiser. Can’t you just see Anyway, Santa finalizes his list and sets the elves to making all the lower level elves. You it? “Billy, it says here that you sold toys. Dolls and trucks, scooters and know, they spend a 5,000 rolls of Rockin’ Reindeer paper to a K. Kringle. Hmmmm…let’s get trampolines–nothing stumps those few years wrestling your mother on the phone.” The kid little guys. The kicker is that when win the bike for sure. the toys are all finished and boxed, with Nerf guns and would The wrapping must require a milsomebody has to wrap them. basketball hoops lion-something elf-hours. I’ll bet they My gift list isn’t nearly as long gather around on barstools at the Root as Santa’s, and I have been wrapbefore they make Beer Lounge after work and swap ping for weeks. I decided to make it to the puzzle and stories. “Barbie Dream House? That’s it easy on myself this year and go nothing. This morning I cranked out with only two kinds of wrapping board game elite.

27 Popcorn Push Toys.” The banpaper. There’s a bold sugarplum The low elf on the ter goes on and on until one of the print for the big gifts and a small supervisors (now collecting Elf stripe for the things that are small, totem pole wraps the retired Security) says, “You think that’s bad? because when the front of your wrapped CD has nothing on it but Sit ’n Spins. Or the Try doing it before self-adhesive tags.”

A respectful hush falls over the room, a gingerbread foot, it’s not very trampolines. and the new guy buys the next round. festive.

On Christmas Eve, the elves haul Some of the gifts for my the bags of toys to the sled, toss in a grandchildren are large and oddly few hundred bags of stick-on bows and bid Santa a good shaped. In years past, I didn’t wrap the big things at all but wheeled them out of the back room at the appropriate night. Then it’s back to the Root Beer Lounge for the Wrap Party. time–ta-da! But you can’t do that with a…well, I can’t Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. ❖ tell you exactly what I’m struggling to wrap this year

over the Mountain Views

What’s the first thing you do to get ready for the holidays?

“I have to buy Starbucks gift cards for all of my clients. I’m a real estate agent at RealtySouth. It’s top on my list.”

Sunday Stephens North Shelby

“I have to mail my girls’ Christmas lists to Santa.

They’re 5 and 9, so getting those lists made and sent is a priority.”

Kim Garrison Vestavia Hills

“I start Christmas shopping during the first part of November and try to be finished by Thanksgiving. I’ve always shopped early.”

Janice Eddings North Shelby

“I have to start my shopping list. For example, I took my daughter to Brookwood Mall recently, and she told me things she liked and things her brother might like. I have my Christmas list stored on my phone.”

Ashley Rowland Vestavia Hills

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

About Town

i nspi r e d by l e g ac y. |

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 3

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4 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

By Ginny Cooper

M

Journal Intern

atthew Mayfield may have grown up in Mountain Brook, but the 30-year-old said that making a name for himself in the music business has taught him a few things about the daily grind, being thankful for what he has and giving back to others.

The struggle to create a career around something he loves has instilled a spirit of compassion in the singer and songwriter, who said he plans to give back to the community through his Nov. 29 concert at Iron City in Birmingham.

Presented by Good People Brewing Company and Birmingham Mountain Radio, Mayfield’s performance this weekend will benefit local homeless shelters for the holidays.

Mayfield said it is not hard to imagine what it must be like to be homeless.

“When we step outside for a few minutes on these cold, windy nights, most of us always know we’ll be sleeping in a heated home with plenty of blankets available,” he said. “But what if we were going to be out there for months on end and some nights there’s simply not enough room at the shelter or there’s nowhere to go but a park bench? That’s a pretty sobering question.”

Ending homelessness is a difficult task, Mayfield said, but helping out in little ways is easy. That’s what his benefit concert aims to accomplish.

Fans are encouraged to bring canned food and warm clothing, and all donations from the evening will go directly to feeding homeless families this holiday season.

Matthew Mayfield Benefit Concert

Performing for a Purpose

When: Nov. 29 Where: Iron City Details: Attendees can bring cold-weather clothing and non-perishable food to donate to the Jimmie Hale Mission and Jessie’s Place. For tickets: Visit www. ironcitybham.com.

Mayfield’s Concert Will Help City’s Homeless

Mountain Brook native Matthew Mayfield will play a benefit concert on Nov. 29 at Iron City in Birmingham to benefit local homeless shelters during the holidays. Photo special to the Journal

The donations will be given to the Jimmie Hale Mission and Jessie’s Place, a Birmingham shelter for women and children.

Mayfield recently gave back in another big way, allowing his fans to download his complete collection through Noisetrade free of charge.

“Honestly, I just wanted to say ‘thanks,’” he said. “My fans have afforded me the ability to do what I love for a living.”

In 2005, Mayfield signed a record deal with Epic Records as part of the band Moses Mayfield. After recording “The Inside” and opening for big acts such as The Fray and Blue

October, the band split up, citing disagreements with the record label as the primary reason for its schism.

Success in the music business, Mayfield said, is fleeting.

“You’ve just got to keep your head down, keep working hard and always be perfecting your craft,” he said.

Mayfield will be recording new tracks in early 2014 and then touring to support the release of this album.

Touring, he said, can be exhausting.

“Late nights, tight budgets, dive hotels,

long drives for weeks on end--finding inspiration at some dingy club in Omaha at 2 a.m. can be tough, but it’s all part of a bigger picture,” Mayfield said.

It’s a picture Mayfield said he feels hon-

ored to create.

His latest studio album, “A Banquet for Ghosts,” was a record full of “residuals—full of what’s left on the canvas after your strip it all off,” Mayfield said.

Mayfield said he was “done with the moneymaking aspect of music” and yearned to make an album that was “no business, just art.” The album was released to critical acclaim, with Glide Magazine touting it as “a deep, painful, engrossing album filled with exquisite joy, crushing sorrow and sublime catharsis. It is not to be missed.”

Mayfield said he can’t wait to get back in the studio in Nashville and start recording his next album.

In the interim however, after a particularly difficult touring schedule, Mayfield said that playing a show in his hometown is “pretty incredible.”

The show, which will be appropriate for all ages, will also feature Sanders Bohlke and Justin Turberville. Tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door. For tickets, visit ironcitybham.com or call 202-5483. ❖

Save the Date Birmingham

“Santa’s Adventures in the Merrywood Mega Mall” Nov. 28-Dec. 20 Birmingham Children’s Theatre The Birmingham Children’s Theatre will present the holiday play “Santa’s Adventures in Merrywood Mega Mall” Nov. 28-Dec. 20. The play was written

by Betty Pewitt and Jean Pierce of Mountain Brook and is designed for children ages 2-6. General admission tickets are $9 for children and $11 for adults. For more information, visit www. bct123.org or call 458-8181.

Homewood

International Exhibit of Letterpress Artwork Nov. 28-Nov. 29, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Samford University Art Gallery Samford University Art Gallery will host an international exhibit of letterpress artwork through Nov. 29.

The 918 Letterpress Ephemera Show takes its name from the .918-inch height of letterpress wood and metal type.

Ephemera is defined as any transitory written or printed matter not meant to be retained or preserved. Examples of letterpress printed ephemera include posters, greeting cards, pamphlets,

postcards, tickets and zines. The exhibit and reception are free and open the public. Samford Art Gallery is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday except on holidays and school breaks.

For more information, visit http:// letterpressephemera.com.

Birmingham area. The Illuminations tree program is held each year in conjunction with the annual Illuminations Ball, one of the hospital’s major fundraising events. The viewing of the trees is free and open to the public. For more information, call 638-9956.

Birmingham

Hoover

Children’s of Alabama 2013 Illuminations Tree Display Nov. 28-Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Children’s Russell and McWane Buildings Children’s of Alabama will present the 2013 Illuminations tree display Nov. 28-Dec. 5 in the main lobbies of the Children’s Russell and McWane Buildings from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. each day.

The event will feature about 40 trees designed and decorated by individuals, companies and organizations from the

Christmas Smiles for Children’s of Alabama Nov. 28-Dec. 7 Renaissance Consignment & Marketplace Children’s of Alabama will debut its Tree of Smiles at its Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace’s Holiday Open House. Donors can choose the name of a needy child from the tree, purchase gifts for them and drop off the gifts at the hospital. The tree will be set up for gift donations on Nov. 28 and

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Birmingham

Model Train Exhibit Nov. 28-Jan. 26 McWane Science Center The holidays are picking up steam at the McWane Science Center in Birmingham with the return of the Magic Model Trains exhibit. Those visiting will discover trains of every shape and size in this popular exhibit, which will be on display Nov. 28-Jan. 26. The exhibit is included in the cost of admission to the museum and free for members.

Museum admission is $12 for adults and $9 for ages 2-12 and those older than 65. Children 2 and younger get in free. For more information, visit www. mcwane.org or call 714-8300.

Birmingham

37th Annual Montclair Run Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m.

LJCC The 37th annual Sam Lapidus Montclair Run will be held on Nov. 28 at the Levite Jewish Community Center.

The 10K will begin at 8:30 a.m., and the one-mile fun run will start at 10 a.m.

The registration fee for the 10K is $30.

The registration fee for the fun run is $18. All participants will receive a T-shirt commemorating the Thanksgiving Day event, which this year also coincides with the first day of Hanukkah. Proceeds will benefit the LJCC Sports and Fitness Department and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama. For more information or to register, visit www. bhamjcc.org.

southern fried

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 5

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

members and $40 for non-members.

Space is limited to 20 participants and pre-registration is suggested. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Mountain Brook

Birmingham Boys Choir Christmas Concert Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.

Canterbury United Methodist Church The 36th annual Birmingham Boys Choir Christmas Concert will be at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 3 in the sanctuary of Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook. This year, the choir will be joined by choir alumni and fathers of current choir members. Admission is free and open to the public. Canterbury

UMC is at 350 Overbrook Road.

For more information, visit www. birminghamboyschoir.com.

Mountain Brook

Holiday Hairdo Hullaballoo Dec. 4, 3-5 p.m.

Emmet O’Neal Library The Emmet O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook will host the Afterschool Special: Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Holiday Hairdo Hullaballoo on Dec. 4.

Children ages 3 and older can receive a special holiday hairdo at the library from 3-5 p.m. on Dec. 4. No appointments are necessary. For more information, visit www.eolib.org call 879-0497.

mountain brook/homewood

Mountain Brook Art Association Holiday Show Dec. 5-19 Brookwood Mall Mountain Brook Art Association artists will present their annual Holiday Art Show Dec. 5-19 at Brookwood Mall. The event will be held inside the lower level in the former Gus Mayer space. Proceeds will support the Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. Paintings of all sizes and price ranges will be available for sale. Featured artists will be on site daily for painting demonstrations. There will be an opening reception from 4-8 p.m. on Dec. 5 at Concina Superior

Restaurant. A grand finale party on Dec. 19 from 6-8 p.m. will be catered by Brio Tuscan Grill. For more information, visit mountainbrookartassociaton.com.

Mountain Brook Village Open House

Dec. 5 • 5-8 pm, featuring: Catherine Pittman Smith's Photography 871-3314

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The Levite Jewish Community Center will host its Southern Fried Chanukah Dinner during its annual Festival of Lights Celebration on Dec. 3. From left: Samantha Dubrinsky and Melissa Levine.

Please make sure all including address

Photo special to the Journal

Please initial and fa

if we have not heard from you by 5 your ad will run as is. W

Birmingham

Southern Fried Chanukah Celebration Dec. 3, 5-7 p.m.

LJCC The Levite Jewish Community Center will host its Festival of Lights from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 3. The festival includes a Southern Fried Chanukah Dinner with fried chicken, latkes, cole slaw, mashed potatoes and a special dessert. Other festival events include the first annual Latke Throwdown; Birmingham Jewish agencies will cook latkes with the prize going to the “Latke Champion.” Festival attendees can also participate in the competitive World Series of Dreidel. Tickets are $10 for adults, $6 for children or $32 per family. For more information, call 879-0411.

Homewood

Handel’s “Messiah” Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m.

Trinity UMC The combined adult choirs of Trinity United Methodist Church in Homewood and First United Methodist Church in Prattville and the Trinity Orchestra are teaming up to present the Christmas section of Handel’s “Messiah” on Dec. 1. The performances will be held at 2:30 p.m. at First UMC in Prattville and at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity UMC. At Trinity, a nursery will be provided and free valet parking will be available. For more information, call Scott Robertson, Trinity UMC’s music director, at 879-1737.

Thank you for yo

The 911 has become a fixture of popular culture.

Ironic, considering it has never once stood still Movies. Television. Music. The Porsche 911 has influenced culture for half a century. Which is no surprise to drivers who know, first hand, why it’s become an icon. The 50th Anniversary edition 911 honors that legacy with special features including increased track width, a Powerkit, which increases engine output to 430-hp, and an interior fabric pattern hearkening back to the original 911. Limited to just 1963 examples, the 50th Anniversary edition 911 delivers the kind of inspiring sports car performance celebrated by culture. Not to mention, its driver. Porsche. There is no substitute.

The 911 50th Anniversary Edition

Hoover

Southern Holiday Home Design Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-noon Aldridge Gardens Learn to transform your home for the holidays at the Southern Holiday Home Design program with designer Carol B. Harris. The event will be from 10 a.m. until noon on Dec. 3 at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover. The cost is $30 for

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6 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

About Town

3 Ships. 4 Itineraries. 1 Port.

M

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

garden club greenery

ore travel choices. More cruise flexibility.

its annual Sporting Clay Shoot on Dec. 6 at Selwood Farms in Childersburg.

The event, which starts at 8:30 a.m., is open to individual players and corporate teams of four. Each participant gets 100 targets. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. All proceeds benefit the Arc of Jefferson County’s programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The clay shoot event also includes a silent auction. The cost is $125 per person or $485 for a fourperson team. For more information, call Scarlet Thompson or Amanda Marcrum at 323-6383.

Birmingham

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Three spectacular ships. Four great itineraries. Sailing from Port Canaveral in 2014!

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Alpha Goings, Heather McWane and Cary Wahlheim, from left, are prepping for the 31st annual Red Mountain Garden Club Greenery Sale on Dec. 4.

Birmingham

Holiday Greenery Sale Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Photo special to the Journal Birmingham Botanical Gardens The Red Mountain Garden Club will hold its 31st annual Greenery Sale from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The sale benefits the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and the Birmingham Museum of Art Memorial Garden. Wreaths, garlands, hand-tied bows, designer ribbons, festive holiday centerpieces, mailbox decorations and kissing balls created by garden club members will be available for purchase. Those who would like to create their own fresh holiday decorations can buy fresh-cut and conditioned greenery provided by garden club members and Pratt Brown of Pratt Brown Landscapes and Bob Newton of Landscape Services. Shoppers will also be able to purchase red deciduous holly branches, branches of nandina berries, yaupon holly and much more. For more information, visit www. redmountaingardenclub.org or contact Kimberly Bean at klbean@charter.net.

Birmingham

Open House and World AIDS Day Dec. 5, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Birmingham AIDS Outreach Birmingham AIDS Outreach invites the public to visit the organization and learn more about the free services it provides the community during an Open House event on Dec. 1. Dec. 1 is also World AIDS Day, and Birmingham AIDS Outreach will have a special service to remember those who have lost the battle with HIV and AIDS. The event is

free and family-friendly. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served. Birmingham AIDS Outreach is at 205 32nd St. South, Birmingham.

For more information, visit www. birminghamaidsoutreach.org or call 3224197.

Childersburg

Clay Shoot Fundraiser Dec. 6, 8:30 a.m.

Selwood Farms The Arc of Jefferson County will hold

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Vestavia Hills

Christmas Open House Dec. 6-7, 10 a.m.-noon Vestavia Hills Baptist Church Vestavia Hills Baptist Church will host “In a Manger Lowly”: A Christmas Open House from 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 6 and 7. The event will include an inspiring exhibit of nativity displays from around the world and Christmas music performed by live musicians. Light refreshments will be served. Admission is free. The church is at 2600 Vestavia Drive. For more information, call 9795920.

Mountain Brook

BSC Choir Concert Dec. 6 and 8 Canterbury United Methodist Church The Birmingham-Southern College choirs will present the 77th annual BSC Carol Service on Dec. 6 and 8 at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook. The event will feature three Birmingham-Southern choirs singing inspiring choral music for the holiday season. The choirs will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6 and at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 8. For more information, visit www.bsc.edu.

DON’T LET THE hustle and bustle OF THE HOLIDAYS CLUTTER UP YOUR HOME.

Gift AVAILABLE!

ZooLight Safari Dec. 6-8, 13-15, 18-23 and 26-31 Birmingham Zoo The Wells Fargo ZooLight Safari returns to the Birmingham Zoo on Dec. 6. The zoo will come alive for 18 nights with millions of lights, holiday music and festive activities. There will be rides on the Candy Cane Train, a Jingle Bell carousel and the Holiday Hayride.

ZooLight Safari will be held from 5-9 p.m. Dec. 6-8, 13-15, 18-23 and 26-31.

Admission is $8 for non-members and free for zoo members. Wristbands for activities cost $9.50 plus tax. Attraction tickets are $3.50 plus tax. For more information, visit www.birminghamzoo. com.

Over the Mountain Office 1220 Alford Avenue • 205.281.4731

Homewood

GBHS Auxiliary Awards Luncheon Dec. 6, 11:30 a.m.

The Club The Greater Birmingham Humane Society will host its annual awards luncheon at 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 6 at The Club in Homewood. The event will recognize community leaders who have made a difference in animal welfare within the past year. Tickets may be purchased online only for $35 and will not be available at the door. This year’s honorees include Bonnie Miller, Dr. William Lamb, Rep. Patricia Todd, Phil Doster and Rudy the dog and his handlers, Terri and Len Slizewski. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.gbhs.org.

Birmingham

An Intimate Evening with Yo-Yo Ma Dec. 6, 8 p.m.

Jemison Concert Hall The Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center will present “An Intimate Evening with Yo-Yo Ma” on Dec. 7. The worldrenowned cellist will perform at 8 p.m. in the Jemison Concert Hall. Tickets are $45.50-$85.50. VIP packages are available. Jemison Concert Hall is at 1200 10th Ave. South, Birmingham. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.alysstephens.org or call 9752787. For VIP package information, call 934-6196.

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 7

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

holiday hits

COLLIER’S Nursery

Birmingham

Our First Noel Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m.

Virginia Samford Theatre The Steel City Men’s Chorus, Birmingham’s newest community arts organization, will kick off its inaugural season with its first holiday concert, “Our First Noel,” Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Virginia Samford Theatre.

The 30-member all-male chorus will present a mix of seasonal favorites and hilarious interpretations of holiday classics. A reception will follow the performance upstairs in the theater’s Martha Moore Sykes Studio. Tickets are $15. For more information, visit www. steelcitymenschorus.org.

Vestavia Hills

The Magic City Nutcracker Dec. 6-8 Vestavia Hills UMC The Community Nutcracker will present “The Magic City Nutcracker” at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

open house Birmingham

The Red Mountain Theatre Company will present “‘Tis the Season” on Dec. 5-22.

Photo special to the Journal by Heather VacLav “’Tis the Season” Dec. 5-22 Red Mountain Theatre Company The Red Mountain Theatre Company will present “’Tis the Season” Dec. 5-22 in the RMTC Cabaret Theatre. The show will feature a cast of Birmingham favorites along with children from the RMTC Youth Programs and will include well-known holiday hits in a cheerful celebration of the season. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and at 2 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. redmountaintheatre.org or call 324-2424.

Dec. 6-8. A portion of the proceeds from the shows will go to local charitable agencies through the church. Tickets are $10. Show times are at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 8. The Community Nutcracker was established last year by Kelly Avery, Stephanie Thompson and Angel White of Vestavia Dance. For more information, visit magiccitynutcracker.

wix.com or call 796-0148.

Birmingham

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About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Organizers getting ready for the annual Mountain Brook Holiday Parade on Dec. 8. include, from left, Paul Allen, Suzan Doidge, Laurie Hereford, Mayor Terry Oden and Terry Chapman.

Photo special to the Journal

‘Tis the Season

OTM Communities Plan Holiday Events

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

O

ver the Mountain communities will welcome the holiday season with parades, tree lightings and other special and unique ways they celebrate the arrival of Christmas.

Ho Ho Homewood will inaugurate the holiday season with the third annual lighting of the Homewood Star on Dec. 3 at 5:30 p.m. at the top of 18th Street South and Oxmoor Road.

Although the star has been hung and suspended on wire every Christmas season for decades, city and chamber of commerce lead-

ers officially rededicated the star in 2011 as the official symbol of the Christmas season in Homewood.

“Nobody else has a star, and Homewood being a patriotic community, you see stars in everything we do,” said Tricia Ford, executive director of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce. “And the Homewood star symbolizes the beginning of the holiday season.”

Other Homewood holiday events include a citywide parade Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. The parade will begin at the city’s public library, wind its way through the streets of Homewood and end at City Hall, where city officials will light the Christmas tree.

Holiday Open House Sale Nov. 25th - Dec. 23rd

Karol Leggett, left, and Tessa Leggett will join St. Nick at the lighting of the Vestavia Hills Christmas tree on Dec. 3. Photo special to the Journal

Hoover’s holiday tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Dec. 2 at 5 p.m. at City Hall. The event will feature performances by the Hoover City School Choir, a Christmas singa-long, a snow play area and Santa making a grand entrance on a fire truck.

“The lighting of the Christmas tree is a tradition here. The kids have a ball, and it’s just a fun time for everyone,” said Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey.

Mountain Brook’s city parade is scheduled for Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. The parade will include holiday floats, a marching band and Mayor Terry Oden riding in a fire truck. The parade will move through Mountain Brook Village on Cahaba Road and various neighborhood streets.

“The Christmas parade has been a tradition here for as long as I can remember,” Oden said. “It’s gotten bigger every year. We’re all looking forward to it. I’ll have some antique fire trucks with me. It will be a really big deal.”

Oden said he’s not going to play the part of Santa.

“I’ll carry him” on the fire truck, Oden said. “But I won’t look like

The annual lighting of the Homewood Star at 18th Street South and Oxmoor Road will be on Dec. 3 at 5:30 p.m. Photo special to the Journal

him.”

Vestavia Hills has a series of celebrations tied to its Holiday in the Hills. The events started in November and continue beyond Dec. 25, cater to all age groups and give Vestavia Hills residents a reason to stay home for the holidays.

“What it does for our community is highlight the great businesses we have here in Vestavia Hills and the great shopping opportunities we have in our city,” said Karen Odle, executive director of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

The community highlights include the lighting of the Christmas tree on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center and a Christmas parade on Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. in Liberty Park. Though Liberty Park is a good distance from downtown Vestavia Hills, city officials have said they want Liberty Park residents to know they’re as much a part of the city and its celebration as the older neighborhoods.

Besides, it’s a good way to spread the joy and festivity of Christmas.❖

Carolyn Ivey and Mayor Gary Ivey will welcome Santa to Hoover at the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 2. Photo special to the Journal

Holiday Fun Homewood

Dec. 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Lighting of the Star at 18th Street South and Oxmoor Road.

For details, visit www. homewoodchamber.com/cal.

Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m., Christmas Tree Lighting at Homewood Library/ City Hall.

For details, visit www. homewoodparks.com.

Hoover

Dec. 2, 5:30 p.m., Christmas Tree Lighting at Hoover City Hall.

For details, visit www.hooveral.org.

Mountain Brook

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Dec. 8, 3 p.m., Christmas Parade at Mountain Brook Village on Cahaba Road.

For details, visit www. welcometomountainbrook.com.

Vestavia HIlls

Dec. 3, 6 p.m., City Tree Lighting Festival at Vestavia Hills Civic Center.

Dec. 8, 2 p.m., Christmas Parade from Liberty Park to Alston Meadows.

For details, visit www.vestaviahills. org.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 9

About Town

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10 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

About Town

Save the Date Cont. scrambled egg and sausage breakfast at the Kudzoo Cafe followed by a visit from St. Nick himself. The cost for members is $14 for ages 11 and older and $9 for ages 2-10. The cost for nonmembers is $19 for ages 11 and older and $15 for ages 2-10. All children will receive a special treat when they arrive.

Reservations are required. To make reservations or for more information, call 879-0409 or visit www.birminghamzoo. com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

christmas past

Nancy Jones, Katherine Berdy, Chris Doss, Lee Ritchie Johnson and Terri Hicks, from left, are ready to welcome guests to Christmas at Arlington on Dec. 8.

Hoover

Ross Bridge Holiday Market Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Ross Bridge The Ross Bridge Holiday Market on Dec. 7 is a free market full of ideas for holiday decorating, entertaining and gift giving. Boy Scouts will sell freshlycut Christmas trees, and Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market will have a selection of fresh garlands, wreaths and mailbox swags. Caterers will offer holiday favorites, and gift vendors will have hand-knitted scarves, jewelry and more. The event will be at 2101 Grand Ave. in the Ross Bridge community in Hoover. For more information, visit rossbridgemarket.com or call 256-7430313.

Birmingham

Holiday Faire Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Alabama Waldorf School The Alabama Waldorf School will host its 26th annual Holiday Faire from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 7. Those attending can celebrate the season with an international buffet and bake sale, live music, games, a climbing wall from Idelwild and vendors with local arts, crafts and handmade goods. The school is at 1220 50th St. South in Birmingham.

Christmas at Arlington Dec. 7-8 Photo special to the Journal Arlington Antebellum Home Christmas at Arlington will be from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Dec. 7 and from 1-4 p.m. on Dec. 8. This year, the Arlington Historical Association is celebrating the museum’s 60th anniversary. Visitors can step back in time as local decorators adorn rooms with period holiday décor. Holiday tunes will fill the air while costumed characters from the Mudd family welcome visitors to the historic mansion, kitchen, and gardens. Light refreshments will be served at a reception in the Garden Room. The Arlington Home is at 331 Cotton Ave. Southwest. For more information, call 780-5656.

For more information, call 592-0541 or visit www.alabamawaldorf.org.

Birmingham

German Christmas Market Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Das Haus: German Club The third annual Birmingham German Christmas Market will be held from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Dec. 7 at Das Haus: German Club at 2318 Second Ave. North, Birmingham. Those attending can stock up on handcrafted holiday gifts from local and German artists and vendors, sample German holiday food and warm up with a cup of Gluehwein, or warm, spiced wine. The event is

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Hoover

Birmingham Girls Choir Concert Dec. 8, 3 p.m.

Shades Crest Baptist Church The Birmingham Girls Choir will present its 2013 Holiday Concert at 3 p.m. on Dec. 8. The concert will be at Shades Crest Baptist Church, 452 Park Avenue in Hoover. The free concert will feature the group’s Una Voce, Intermezzo and Prelude Choirs.

Margaret Heron, Meredith Devore and Lindsay Walker are the directors.

Vestavia Hills

Christmas by Candlelight Dec. 8, 2 and 6 p.m.

Shades Mountain Baptist Shades Mountain Baptist Church in Vestavia Hills will present “Christmas

by Candlelight: King of Heaven” in two performances on Dec. 8 at the Columbiana Road church. Singers, dancers, artists and storytellers will present an ageless story of hope inviting all to celebrate the message of Christmas. Show times are at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.shades.org.

Birmingham

Southern Tales Dec. 8, 2 p.m.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens Dolores Hydock and Bobby Horton will return to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens on Dec. 8 for the fifth annual Southern Tales: Songs, Stories and Sing-a-longs for a fun-filled, holidaythemed afternoon on Dec. 8. At 2 p.m., they will present a collection of Christmas carols and new stories and songs. Hydock will give an encore of her much-requested “Christmas Letters of Thanks,” while Horton will bring in fellow musician Tuck Kornegay to join in the holiday fun. Nina Reeves and Sammye Hill will appear at the event for the first time with their own collection of stories.

The event will be held in the Linn Henley Lecture Hall. Tickets are $25

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

holiday

spectacular

$20 or $5 for students in kindergarten through the 12th grade. Tickets will be sold at the door. Urban Cookhouse is at 212 Country Club Park, Mountain Brook. For more information, call 8033535.

Birmingham

The Alabama Ballet will present Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker� in Homewood Dec. 13-22. From left: Chinatsu Owada and Ruby Thornton.

Photo special to the Journal by Arik Sokol

Homewood

Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker�

Dec. 13-22 Wright Fine Arts Center The Alabama Ballet will present George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker� on Dec. 13-22 at the Wright Fine Arts Center on the campus of Samford University in Homewood. The professional company of 38 dancers remains one of only seven companies in the world granted the right to perform this holiday classic by the Balanchine Trust. Performed to Balanchine’s exacting specifications, this show’s dazzling choreography, opulent costumes and extravagant sets make it a production like no other. Tickets are $20-$55.

Show times are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 20-21 and at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 14-15 and Dec. 21-22.

For more information, visit www. alabamaballet.org. and can be purchased online at www. bbgardens.org/southerntales.

Vestavia Hills

Family Night with Santa’s Magical World Dec. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.

Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest The Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest will host Family Night with Santa’s Magical World from 6-7:30 p.m. on Dec. 10. A light supper will be served from 6-6:30 p.m. followed by a program featuring Santa and his winter wonderland. Children will have the opportunity for photos with Santa after the program. A shuttle service will be available if the library parking lot is full. This is a free program. For more information, call 978-0158.

Mountain Brook

Cornerstone Christmas Dec. 10, 6-9 p.m.

Urban Cookhouse Crestline Those attending the Cornerstone Christmas at Urban Cookhouse Crestline event on Dec. 10 can check out the newest Urban Cookhouse location and enjoy live music and a menu tasting, all for a good cause. The event is from 6-9 p.m. All proceeds will benefit Cornerstone School. Tickets are

Walk Through Nativity Dec. 11-13, 6:45-8:45 p.m.

Briarwood Presbyterian Church The congregation of Briarwood Presbyterian Church will stage a walk through nativity on the church grounds Dec. 11-13 from 6:45-8:45 p.m. More than 800 members participate in the event, which will feature scenes depicting the birth and life of Jesus.

Several scenes use live animals, including a camel. A children’s petting zoo and refreshments will also be offered at the conclusion of the walk.

Organizers say the walk is easy for the entire family, including children in strollers and those in wheelchairs. This is a free event. For more information, visit briarwood.org.

Hoover

Service Club Meeting Dec. 12, 11 a.m.

Hoover Country Club The Hoover Service Club will meet at 11 a.m. on Dec. 12 at the Hoover Country Club. The Spain Park High School choral group will present a holiday musical program directed by Charles Henry. Lunch is $18. Hoover

Chad Fisher Group Holiday Special Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m.

Hoover Public Library The Hoover Public Library will present the Chad Fisher Group Holiday Special at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 12. The event is free and open to the public.

Trombonist Chad Fisher and his backing band will present a special program of holiday classes played jazz style. The library is at 200 Municipal Drive. For more information, call 444-7821.

Hoover

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Party Dec. 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Hoover Public Library The Hoover Public Library will present The Hobbit: An Unexpected Party from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Dec. 12.

Dress up and join Bilbo for good food, excitement and reasonable reward. This free event is for all ages. The library is at 200 Municipal Drive. For more information, visit 444-7830.

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 11

Power Cuffs.

Birmingham

A Bluegrass Christmas Carol Dec. 12-22 Virginia Samford Theatre Virginia Samford Theatre will present a new telling of Dickens’ classic tale with “A Bluegrass Christmas Carol�

Dec. 12-22. The musical, written and directed by Norton Dill, is set in the Appalachian Mountains and features the original storyline and characters but with a new twist. The all-star cast and chorus will be accompanied by the Herb Trotman Band. Tickets for the family-friendly show are $20-$25. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12-14 and Dec. 19-21 and at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 15 and 22. For more information, visit www. virginiasamfordtheatre.org or call 2511206.

Birmingham

Mid-Day Musical Menu Dec. 13, 12:30 p.m.

Cathedral Church of the Advent The Cathedral Church of the Advent will present the Mid-Day Musical Menu at 12:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Stephen Cary, tenor, and Cindy St. Clair, pianist, will perform a 30-minute recital in Clingman Commons. The church is at 2017 Sixth Ave. North, Birmingham.

For more information, visit http:// adventbirmingham.org. â?–

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12 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

About Town

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Mountain Brook Village, English Village Merchants Plan for Holiday Open Houses Merchants in Mountain Brook Village and English Village are getting ready to kick off the holiday season with open house events.

Mountain Brook Village merchants are hosting a Holiday Open House on Dec. 5.

Marguerite Ray, owner of Marguerite’s Conceits on Canterbury Road, said about 99 percent of the stores in Mountain Brook Village will stay open late for the December event, which will run from 5-7 p.m.

“We want to encourage everyone to come out and experience our little gems over here in Mountain Brook Village,” Ray said.

Paige Albright, owner of Paige Albright Orientals on Petticoat Lane, said stores will be giving away door prizes and offering specials and discounts during the Holiday Open House.

And if all that shopping leaves customers hungry, Albright said they won’t have to go far to find something good to eat.

“Shindigs (food truck) will also be here, parked on Canterbury Road, to offer fall treats, and they’ll have picnic tables set up during the Holiday Open House,” she said.

Dreamcakes will also be on hand to offer tasty treats, Ray said.

Christmas carolers will be out during the Holiday Open House, spreading holiday cheer with traditional songs.

Albright said she expects about 36

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From left: David Faulkner, Lizzy Thomas, Carole Griffin, Kay Reed, Suzan Doidge and Hannon Davidson met recently to discuss plans for the English Village Holiday Open House to be held on Dec. 4. Journal photos by Keysha Drexel From left: Helping plan the Mountain Brook Village Holiday Open House set for Dec. 5 are, Lynn Ritchie, Marguerite Ray, Wesley Lassen and Paige Albright.

merchants will be participating in the Mountain Brook Village Holiday Open House event.

The merchants of English Village in Mountain Brook will usher in the holiday season with special offers and extended hours on Dec. 4.

The merchants are hosting the Holiday Open House event from 4-8 p.m., with some businesses and restaurants planning to stay open after that.

Carole Griffin, owner of Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu, said the holiday event gives merchants in English Village a chance to band together and support each other and the community.

“It’s important for the community and gives us a chance to welcome all the new businesses that suddenly seem to be coming to English Village,” she said.

Lizzy Thomas, director of marketing and sales at Jordan Alexander Jewelry, said the Holiday Open House is all about members of the business community working together to help each other.

“We want to support each other because we want the best for the entire community,” Thomas said.

Thomas said in addition to specials on Dec. 4, Jordan Alexander Jewelry will have other holiday events in December.

The Holiday Open House also gives the merchants a chance to get together and celebrate the season, Griffin said.

“The truth is, I just love to get together with everybody,” she said.

“Everyone is supportive of each other, so it’s not just a chance to open your doors and welcome your customers, but it’s also a chance to do something with the other business owners.”

The event will also include a lantern festival, Griffin said. She has been making lanterns of paper and bamboo that merchants and shoppers can light and carry during the festivities.

“It will be something that feels wholesome and inviting to the community,” she said. “We’ll walk through the village and sort of bless it and feed off that good energy of the holiday season.”

For more information on both events, visit the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce website at www.welcometomountainbrook.com.

—Keysha Drexel

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 13

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News

14 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

u Vestavia Hills

Mayor Says City Needs to Move Forward in Address

By Keysha Drexel Journal editor

Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza said the city must balance its commitment to tradition while moving the city forward in his annual State of the City Address on Nov. 12.

Zaragoza made his address at a well-attended luncheon hosted by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce at Vestavia Country Club.

“We have a lot of traditions in Vestavia Hills, and while we don’t want to do away with a lot of it, we need to move forward in some cases,” he said.

That proactive, forward-thinking philosophy is something Vestavia Hills city officials had been talking about even before the economic downturn in 2008, the mayor said.

“Several years ago, we looked at rebranding. We had a study that said we were dated, we were back in the ’50s and ’60s and that we needed to update the city’s image,” he said.

Zaragoza said the city is working with advertising agencies and with the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce to update the city’s image.

That rebranding, the mayor said, is based on three core values--unity, prosperity and family.

“We all have one goal--to better the city,” Zaragoza said.

Zaragoza said he’s encouraged by an uptick in new construction and revenues.

“Things have really turned around in our community,” the mayor said.

“We’ve got good things happening and the potential for more good things to happen.”

The city is among only a few others in the state which currently have AA++ credit ratings, Zaragoza said.

In fiscal year 2012, Zaragoza said, there was a $1.6 million increase in revenues over the previous year’s projections.

And while ad valorem tax values were down 2.4 percent below projections, Zaragoza said “there’s light at the end of the tunnel” on that front.

Zaragoza said the downturn in ad valorem taxes was mostly due to Jefferson County’s decision to reappraise storm-damaged properties without notifying the city.

But ad valorem tax values should now improve since many of the homes damaged in the 2011 storms have been rebuilt or repaired.

Zaragoza said the city is also seeing more new construction.

“We have three subdivisions in the works and another one out at Liberty Park,” he said. “We’re really lucky to have things going on in new construction.”

The city’s sales tax numbers have also increased in the last fiscal year by $860,000, the mayor said.

Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza and Karen Odle, president of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Zaragoza gave his annual State of the City Address at the chamber luncheon at Vestavia Country Club on Nov. 12. Journal photo by Keysha Drexel

“That’s tremendous,” he said.

Zaragoza reminded audience members to shop locally to keep the city moving forward with a phrase often used by Karen Odle, president of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

“As Karen says, ‘Shop Vestavia Hills,’” Zaragoza said.

Zaragoza said city department heads have done a good job of being good stewards of the city’s money.

“Our department heads only spend the money they need to spend and only when they have to spend it,” he said.

u Over the Mountain

The city has worked to streamline its departments, the mayor said, by combining them under one department head. For example, Zaragoza said, the parks and recreation department has been combined with the public works department under one director.

“We’re cross training those individuals to work in the parks and on the roads,” he said.

Another effort to save money, Zaragoza said, was the city’s decision earlier this year to eliminate its 911 call center and merge with the Shelby County E-911 center.

“That helps us save a half-million dollars with that contract,” he said.

The move also saved the city from having to fund up to $1 million in technological upgrades to its 911 call center, Zaragoza said.

The city is receiving help on several projects with money from grants, the mayor said.

Those projects include upgrading the lights at the athletic fields and improvements on Massey Road, Zaragoza said.

He said Vestavia Hills is working with Hoover and Mountain Brook to make repairs to Overton Road, Columbiana Road and Rocky Ridge Road.

Plans are also moving forward to build a new city hall in Vestavia hills, the mayor said.

The current city hall was built in 1953 and while it has had numerous renovations and additions, it still doesn’t supply the space the city needs, Zaragoza said.

Vestavia Hills is purchasing the site of the former Food World and Joe’s Ranch House to construct a new municipal complex, which is being designed by Williams Blackstock Architects, he said.

Zaragoza said all the changes and improvements planned in Vestavia Hills won’t happen overnight.

“It will take a little time,” the mayor said. “It will take all of us working together.” ❖

u homewood

Faulkner, Barkley Are House District 46 Candidates School System To Get New Central Office

By Keysha Drexel Journal editor

Two Over the Mountain residents recently announced their candidacies for the 46th District Seat in the Alabama House of Representatives.

David Faulkner of Mountain Brook and Justin Barkley of Homewood have announced their intent to seek the seat currently held

by Rep. Paul DeMarco, R-Homewood.

In October, DeMarco announced his candidacy for Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District seat to succeed U.S. David Faulkner Rep. Spencer Bachus of Vestavia Hills, who is retiring.

House District 46 includes portions of Jefferson and Shelby counties, including parts of the Over the Mountain communities of Homewood, Hoover and Mountain Brook.

DeMarco was first chosen as the

District 46 representative in a 2005 special election when Mark Gaines vacated the seat for an appointment as Jefferson County Probate Judge. He was reelected in 2006 and 2010.

Faulkner, a Republican, is a partner at the law offices of Christian & Small. His 19-year civil trial experience includes premises liability, products liability, commercial transportation and trucking, personal injury, insurance, fraud, business and commercial litigation.

Faulkner, a lifelong resident of District 46, ran unsuccessfully last year for the Jefferson County Circuit Court Place 6. He was defeated by Democrat Don Blankenship.

Faulkner served as the president of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce from 2005-2006 and is in his second term on the St. Luke’s Church Vestry. He has been an Acolyte Leader at the church since 2002 and has served as a Eucharistic Lay Minister since 2009.

He is also on the board of Big Time Ministries, a Christian interdenominational youth ministry and is involved with Young Stars Basketball Academy in Woodlawn.

Faulkner and his wife, Nancy, have been married for 16 years and

have three children.

Justin Barkley, a Hoover native, is also seeking the House District 46 seat being vacated by DeMarco.

Barkley lives in Homewood and also practices law in Homewood.

Barkley, a Republican, represents employers and small businesses in his law practice.

He is a graduate of Hoover High School and Harvard University.

Barkley earned his law Justin Barkley degree at the University of Alabama School of Law. Barkley has been married to his high school sweetheart, Melissa Ausman Barkley, for 11 years. They have three children ranging in age from 2 to 7 with a fourth child due in December.

Barkley said he is involved in several charitable and community events through his law firm and his church, Riverchase United Methodist.

A Republican primary for the District 46 seat will be held in June. ❖

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

The Homewood City Schools system has moved forward with plans to build a new central office.

In a letter to residents released earlier this month, Superintendent Bill Cleveland announced that construction began Nov. 4 on a new central office at the old Magnolia Park Apartments property.

School officials plan to build a one-story, 15,000-square-foot building on the property which lies off Valley Avenue. An artistic rendition of the building can be found at www.homewood.k12.al.us.

Cleveland noted that construction hours are from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays. No work is scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays.

Cleveland also outlines in the letter the three phases of the project. The first phase includes installing a sidewalk along Valley Avenue, which will run the length of the property to the city’s middle school and includes removing a portion of a track on the property.

The second phase involves removing the existing road to the tennis courts and the remaining portion of the track and demolishing and removing the

concrete slabs from the apartments.

Cleveland said in the letter that only slabs visible from Valley Avenue will be removed.

In the third phase, the remaining parking lot will be removed and replaced with grass. A new fence will be installed and will run along Valley Avenue and along the east side of the property line. This portion of the project should be completed in June.

The central office is expected to be completed by July 30.

The school system’s master plan for the property had included a greenway buffer along Valley Avenue, a 200-meter track, athletic and maintenance storage buildings and parking for baseball and tennis areas. However, a spokesperson for the school system said school officials are focused only on the central office at this time, and it’s not certain if additional features will be included at a later date.

Brasfield & Gorrie is the general contractor, and Williams Blackstock Architects is the architect for the central office project.

In 2011, the Homewood school board purchased the 24.7 acre property from foreclosure for $10 million. The property used to house the former Magnolia Park Apartments. ❖

NEWS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

This artist’s rendering shows what the new Western Market will look like when it opens in the Lane Parke development. Special to the Journal

u Mountain Brook

Western Market Will Anchor Lane Parke Development Western Supermarkets, a Birmingham business since 1948, and Evson, Inc., a Birmingham-based development company owned by Rele and John Evans, recently announced that Western Supermarkets will lead the lineup of retail tenants for the Lane Parke development in Mountain Brook Village.

The new expanded store, which will be called Western Market, will help anchor 28-acre Lane Parke, which includes the 276-unit luxury apartment homes already under construction and the 100-room Kessler Collection Grand Bohemian Hotel scheduled to begin construction in the coming months.

Ken Hubbard, chief executive officer and owner of Western, said the company is “extremely excited to be a

part of Lane Parke.”

“This new store not only allows us to reaffirm our commitment of 53 years to serving the Mountain Brook community but will also afford us the space to deliver a superior customer experience, expand our offering of fine wines, high quality meats, fresh produce and prepared foods, and continue our legacy of providing exceptional service and value,” Hubbard said.

According to Hubbard, the new 28,300-square-foot store will allow Western to expand its fresh departments to better serve the Mountain Brook community and will also feature a new look and a new name.

“Our goal from the outset has been to create a full-service upscale grocery environment that aligns with the

u Hoover

u Over the Mountain

lifestyles of our customers. The new Western Market will allow us to fulfill that goal,” he said.

Western Market will offer fine wines in a climate-controlled cellar, a wide variety of freshly prepared items in the deli and fresh-cut flowers.

“We are extremely excited that Western has chosen Lane Parke as its new home to serve the Mountain Brook community and welcome the fact that they have not only embraced the vision and tradition of Mountain Brook Village but are incorporating it into the design and development of their new store,” said John Evans of Evson. “We are confident that this location will allow them to serve the community for the next 53 years and further.”

Construction on the store is scheduled to begin before the end of the year, officials said. Tenant openings are scheduled for the late spring or early summer of 2015.

Once complete, the initial phase of retail for Lane Parke will total approximately 68,000 square feet of boutiques, specialty retail shops and distinctive restaurants, officials said.

“The level of interest in Lane Parke continues to grow with each passing day and with each new commitment,” said Robert Jolly, president of Retail Specialists, Inc., the leasing team for Lane Parke. “As we move closer to the commencement of construction, we look forward to releasing the names of other tenants who have committed to take advantage of the unique opportunity that is Lane Parke.” ❖

Council Passes Brooke Joins Sixth District Race New Budget

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

The Hoover City Council recently approved a $130 million fiscal budget for 2013-14 which includes money for a new fire station, sidewalks and a 2 percent cost-of-living raise for city employees.

City officials have allocated $2.3 million for a new Ross Bridge fire station and a cost-of-living raise that will cost the city about $920,000. It was the first cost-of-living increase employees have received since 2008, Mayor Gary Ivey said.

A fire station could be built by 2015, city officials estimate.

Hoover officials also set aside nearly $6 million for road improvements throughout the city and $2 million for sidewalks.

The city has identified Stadium Trace Parkway and Brock’s Gap Parkway as areas for major road improvements. Those two roads absorb about $2 million of the $6 million allocated for road improvements.

City officials also budgeted $2 million to the city school system.

The city used to give as much as $10 million to its school system but has cut that amount to about $2 million, which it has given to Hoover schools for the past five years.

The budget year ended Sept. 30. ❖

The executive vice president and managing partner of Harbert Management Corp. is the latest candidate to announce he is seeking to replace Rep. Spencer Bachus, R-Vestavia Hills, who is retiring.

Will Brooke, who lives in Birmingham’s Redmont neighborhood, last week announced his candidacy for Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. It is his first run for a political Will Brooke office.

Bachus announced in September that he will not seek re-election.

Brooke grew up in Birmingham, attended public schools and then went on to earn business and law degrees from the University of Alabama.

He practiced law in Birmingham and Homewood for a decade before

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 15

moving on to a job as general counsel at Harbert Corp. in Pelham.

Brooke then moved into operations and became Harbert’s chief operating officer. In 1993, Brooke co-founded the Harbert Management Corp., an asset management firm headquartered in Birmingham.

Brooke said if elected, he will put his business experience and background in job creation and economic growth to work for the people of the state.

“As a businessman, I know job one in Washington is to cut federal spending and get our financial house in order,” Brooke said.

He and his wife, Maggie, have been involved for civic activities in the state for years, Brooke said.

The Sixth Congressional District includes parts of Jefferson, Shelby, Bibb, Chilton, Coosa, St. Clair and Tuscaloosa counties and surrounds Birmingham.

Brooke is the fourth candidate to announce his intentions of seeking the seat. ❖

BLUFF PARK WINDOW WORKS

• Wood window restoration and repair • Sash replacement, rot repair • Replace broken and fogged glass • Wood insulated, putty glazed, and composite vinyl replacement sashes • Locally owned and operated

Call 205-542-6094

Candlelight at Dawson

Saturday, December 21 & Sunday, December 22 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary (Doors open at 4:15 p.m.)

Join us for a night of traditional Christmas carols sung by a 300voice choir and a

thrilling procession with 1,800 lights aglow.

Dawson Memorial Baptist Church 1114 Oxmoor Road Birmingham, Alabama 35209 (205) 871-7324 • (205) 795-PRAY www.dawsonchurch.org

16 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

A Special Blessing

life

‘When a child gets adopted, they feel like there’s actually someone who loves them and cares about them and wants them.’ Samantha Dills

This Family Is Thankful for Finding Each Other

By Keysha Drexel

F

Journal editor

or most families, the month of November is special because Thanksgiving gives them the time to gather around the table and be grateful for having each other.

But November is especially worthy of celebration for one Riverchase family because of the journey that led to them all being able to come together this Thanksgiving.

For Jessica Rainer, the mother of two adopted daughters, National Adoption Month in November is a cause to count her blessings.

Rainer adopted 11-year-old Samantha and 10-year-old Lizzie Dills when they were just 4 and 5 years old from the state foster care system.

“We are so thankful for our family that God pieced together so perfectly,” Rainer said. “We are also thankful for second chances and new beginnings. We are truly blessed.”

Rainer and her ex-husband, Jonathan Dills, adopted the girls six years ago with the help of Alabama Pre/Post Adoptions Connections, or APAC. The statewide program is a collaborative effort between Children’s Aid Society and the Alabama Department of Human Resources.

Founded 100 years ago, Children’s Aid Society works not only to match children with adoptive parents but also to offer counseling and social work programs.

The goal of the APAC program and Children’s Aid Society is to help the hundreds of children in the state who are waiting to find a “forever home” like Samantha and Lizzie found, said Theresa Cook, a pre-adoption specialist with Children’s Aid Society.

“Alabama has more than 700 children waiting to be adopted from foster care,” Cook said. “Of those children, approximately 260 have no ‘forever family’ resource identified.”

Complicating matters is the fact that older children are more difficult to place with adoptive families, Cook said.

“Most of these children are ages 8 and above or are part of a sibling group of three that may have emotional, mental or physical challenges,” Cook said. “These children are harder to place.”

‘To actually have a family that cares for you is what I’m thankful for.’ Lizzie Dills

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Front from left: Lizzie Dills, Lilah Dills and Samantha Dills.

Back: Jessica and Drew Rainer. Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

Samantha and Lizzie, who are biological sisters, had been in the foster care system for about four years before they were matched with Rainer.

Rainer grew up in Guntersville and graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies in 2002. She then went back to school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and earned a degree in nursing in 2007.

The UAB nurse said she always knew that she wanted her family to be a mix of biological and adopted children. In addition to Samantha and Lizzie, she also has a biological daughter, 4-year-old Lilah.

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a passion for foster care and adoption,” Rainer said. “When it was time to start a family, I knew I wanted to go through the foster care system, and I knew I wanted older children because they are harder to place.”

Rainer has a sister who is four years older than she and a brother 14 years younger.

“It was just me and my sister, for the most part, growing up, and I remember wanting a big family. It just seemed like a lot of fun--a lot of chaos, but a lot of fun,” she said.

Rainer said as a Christian, she believes adopting children is part of her journey in faith.

“In many ways, adoption is living out my beliefs as a Christian,” she said. “One of my favorite passages of scripture is James 1:27 that says ‘Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to care for the orphans and widows in their distress.’”

Rainer said the approval process for becoming an adoptive parent seemed endless.

“At times, I grew frustrated waiting for the child I wanted to adopt to come home,” she said. “I just kept the faith that the child or children who needed me would find me.”

A few months after the approval process was complete, Rainer received the call she had been waiting for.

“One January morning at 11 a.m., I was painting my kitchen ceiling, of all things, and I received a call from our social worker telling me that there were two little girls sitting at the Shelby County Department of Human Resources that needed a home,” she said.

Rainer and her husband at the time had expected that they would adopt one child at a time and had prepared a room for a 10-year-old boy they had hoped to adopt.

“I happily broke out the paintbrush to paint over the tan walls and went out and bought another twin bed,” she said.

“Just like that, I was a mother of two beautiful little girls.”

Samantha and Lizzie’s biological parents still had rights

when the girls were placed with Rainer, so for nine months, the new mother had no idea how long the girls would be with her.

“That was tough. I remember being out and seeing parents with their children and thinking how lucky they were because they knew that those children would get to be with them forever,” she said.

But by the time their first Thanksgiving as a family rolled around, Samantha and Lizzie’s biological parents had signed over their rights, and the path was clear for Rainer to adopt the girls.

“It was a really special Thanksgiving for us that year,” Rainer said.

Samantha and Lizzie said they remember bits and pieces of their first few months in their new home with Rainer.

“I remember I was pretty shy at first, but I always have felt like this is where I should have been all along,” Samantha said.

Lizzie said she knows there are a lot of children who aren’t as fortunate as she and her sister.

“To actually have a family that cares for you is what I’m thankful for,” Lizzie said. “A lot of kids out there never find a family, and I feel lucky that I found mine.”

Samantha is a sixth-grader at Berry Middle School, and Lizzie is in the fourth grade at Riverchase Elementary School.

Both girls said they share their adoption story with their friends at school.

“When I was in the fifth grade, there were three other girls who were in foster care or had been adopted, so it was good to talk to them because we understand each other,” Samantha said.

Samantha said that when she grows up, she’s going to adopt five kids and have five biological kids.

“I keep telling her that’s wonderful--just rethink those numbers,” her mother said, laughing.

But Samantha said she is very serious about sharing her story in hopes that it will inspire more adults to adopt older children and children from the state’s foster care system.

“I would like to tell people to think about how the child feels that is waiting to be adopted,” Samantha said. “When a child gets adopted, they feel like there’s actually someone who loves them and cares about them and wants them. That makes the child feel good about themselves and it makes them happy, and that’s just awesome.”

Rainer said she hopes more families will consider adopting from the state foster care system.

“It’s been glamorized by Hollywood stars to go off to other countries and adopt children, and I’m all for giving any child in need a good home, but I hope people realize the number of children right here in our country and in our state who need a good home.”

Rainer said she read recently on an adoption resources website that there are more than 100,000 children in the U.S. foster care system.

“With over 300,000 churches in America, simple math shows you that it would take less than one individual or family per church to eradicate the orphan population,” she said.

“Every child deserves a forever family.”

Samantha and Lizzie’s “forever family” recently expanded, giving them one more reason to celebrate in November.

Their mom married Drew Rainer, a nurse at Shelby Baptist Medical Center, on Nov. 9.

“To have all of us under one roof at Thanksgiving is going to be a big blessing,” Drew Rainer said.

For more information on the need for adoptive homes and the services offered through Children’s Aid Society, visit www. childrensaid.org or call 251-7148. ❖

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 17

life

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Triple Treat

Alabama Nasal & Sinus Center

Three Generations of Dancers Will Perform in ‘The Nutcracker’

By Ginny Cooper Journal intern

For Frances Rooney, dancing the part of Clara in the Nutcracker is a dream come true.

The Spring Valley School sixthgrader said she remembers every detail about the day she learned she’d gotten the part in the Alabama Youth Ballet Company’s presentation of the holiday classic in December.

Frances said she was at her family’s lake house in July when her mother, Beth Rooney of Mountain Brook, called to tell her the good news.

“I started squealing,” Frances said.

Beth said the whole family started screaming in joy for 12-year-old Frances, who’s been dancing since the age of 9.

“We were all so happy,” Beth said.

Frances isn’t the only one in the family dancing in the ballet. Her mother and paternal grandmother, Janet Rooney of Mountain Brook, will join her onstage.

The dancers said their family dynamic is preserved in their roles in the ballet.

“I’m Clara’s mother. I’m her mother onstage and offstage,” Beth said. “And her grandmother is the nanny, which is the grandmother role, kind of.”

Janet said she began studying dance in her late 20s under the instruction of Birmingham ballerina Laura Toffel Knox, who danced as prima ballerina at a company in Puerto Rico and founded the first racially integrated dance company in Birmingham.

Janet’s role in “The Nutcracker,” however, doesn’t call for much dancing.

“I’ve danced for a long time, but this is a character role,” Janet said.

“The nanny does get to dance with Drosselmeyer in the end though, which is very thrilling.”

Beth said she knows the Nutcracker well and has danced almost every role in the ballet.

“I was a party mother, and then I was Clara’s mother last year and this year. Before, when I was younger, I was in ‘The Nutcracker’ for nine years. One year I was Clara, but I was taken out of the role because I was too tall,” she said.

Her favorite part of this production, Beth said, is seeing Frances dance her dream role.

“I love to watch her,” she said. “I just cry sometimes, it’s so wonderful.”

Beth said her daughter grew up dreaming of dancing in the role of Clara in the holiday classic.

“Frances has always loved ‘The Nutcracker’ and always wanted to be Clara,” Beth said. “When she was little, she would watch the George Balanchine version of ‘The

From left: Beth Rooney, Janet Rooney and Frances Rooney will all perform in the Alabama Youth Ballet Company’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” in December. Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

Nutcracker’ and knew it by heart.

We had a Nutcracker birthday for her when she turned 4, and it was a big event.”

Alabama Ballet dancers performed parts of the second act of the ballet at Frances’ party, which was featured in Southern Baby magazine, Beth said.

“Yes, it was huge,” Janet said, laughing.

Though the Rooneys always attend the Alabama Ballet’s performance of “The Nutcracker,” they said they are happy to be involved in the Alabama Youth Ballet Company’s version, which has several unique aspects.

“It’s more community-based,” Janet said. “They involve the community throughout the whole first scene.

A city official dances the role of Mother Ginger, and the maid is actually the treasurer of the Ballet Guild.”

The ongoing tradition of Mother Ginger is an important aspect of the production of “The Nutcracker” and is representative of the studio’s community mindset, Janet said.

Mother Ginger, a role traditionally played by a man dressed as a woman, is a character in the second act whose children emerge from under her enormous skirt to dance.

Grebel Studio recruits a prominent member of the community to play the part each year.

“Every year there is a Mother Ginger Club,” Beth said. “They go to the city council meeting in Pelham, and they put the wig behind someone’s chair. Some years, it’s the fire chief, some years, it’s the mayor.

Nutcraker Performance Has Big OTM Connection Janet, Beth, and Frances Rooney aren’t the only ones to make “The Nutcracker” a family affair.

“Most parents are extremely involved and will play some role, even if it’s just being a party mother. In the first act in the party scene, about half are parents of the kids and half are friends they brought in,” Debbie Grebel said.

Several Over the Mountain residents will also be performing in the ballet this year.

From the U.S. Highway 280 corridor the performers are Adrian Hughes and her daughter Mary Ashton Hughes, Lila Killian and daughter Claire Killian, McKinley Homan, Ellie Findley, Kate Knowles, Alice Goff, Kathryn-Taylor

Michael J. Sillers, M.D., F.A.C.S Dr. Kristopher Lay, M.D.

There’s a little club and all of the past Mother Gingers come every year. It’s At Alabama Nasal and Sinus Center we specialize in just fun. It’s a tradition.”

This year, Pelham City adult and pediatric diseases of the ear, nose and throat.

Councilman Ron Scott will play the The services we provide include nasal and sinus surgery including role of Mother Ginger. balloon sinuplasty (BSP), ear surgery, tonsillectomy, and thyroid The Grebel version of “The surgery. We also evaluate and manage allergic disease, skin lesions of Nutcracker” also has unique choreography, said Deborah Grebel, executive the head and neck, nasal obstruction, as well as hearing, balance, director of Grebel Center for Dance. speech, swallowing, snoring and sleep disorders.

Stevan Grebel choreographed the Our excellent audiologists, Margaret Springfield, Aud., CCC-A and Emily ballet after the style of Marius Petipa, Cole, M.S., CCC-A, perform hearing tests and dispense hearing aids. who originally set the Tchaikovsky St. Vincent's Health and Wellness music to ballet in the 1890s. Grebel first presented his version of “The 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Suite 301 Nutcracker” in 1970 at Boutwell Birmingham, Al 35242 Auditorium, then from 1973-82 at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention 205-980-2091 Complex with the Alabama Symphony www.alabamasinus.com Orchestra.

This year will mark the eighth annual performance of “The Nutcracker” featuring the Alabama Youth Ballet Company at Pelham High School.

Beth said it’s a smaller, more inti-To: Marylin mate version of the ballet.

From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., “The kids have a lot more opportu205-824-1246, fax nity to perform,” she said.

Date: November 2013 Frances said she’s enjoying the whole process of being a part of This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the “The Nutcracker” this year, including novmeber 28, 2013 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to hrough an inspiring exhibit of nativity displays rehearsals. approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

“The rehearsals are fun, because from around the world, you’ll be reminded of the when I’m rehearsing I get to have all make sure all information is correct, miracle ofPlease the first Christmas many years ago. including address so and phone number! of my friends with me,” Frances said.

Beth said many of the dancers at Grebel get together outside of the stuAt theplease same time, you’ll initial andhear faxstirring back within 24 hours. dio to do fun activities together.

IfChristmas we have notmusic, heard from you by 5live pm by of the Friday before the press date, performed “We’re all just like a family,” your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. gifted musicians, filling you with the Frances said. ❖

Come join us for a Community Christmas Celebration...

“In A Manger Lowly” A Christmas Open House

T

Sisk, Ana Katkin and Reena Ramani.

From Indian Springs the performers are Quentin Dunn and step-daughterto-be Mary Rose Kitchens.

From Hoover, Nikolas Korcz and his brother Thomas Korcz will perform.

From Vestavia, the performers are John Hollingsworth and Hannah Shelton.

From Mountain Brook, Breelynne Bice, Polly Upton, Gincie Walker, Bill Upton, Janet Rooney, Beth Rooney and Frances Rooney will perform.

Show times are Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. at Pelham High School, 2500 Panther Circle.

Tickets are available online at www. grebeldance.com or can be picked up at Grebel Dance at 102 Commerce Parkway in Pelham until 2 p.m. on Dec. 11.

--Ginny Cooper

you forseason. your prompt attention. spiritThank of the Christmas Admission is FREE. Enjoy light refreshments, an inspirational display of nativities and fellowship with friends and neighbors in celebrating God’s gift of love.

Friday, December 6th

10:00am – 12:00pm

Saturday, December 7th

10:00am – 2:00pm

Event is hosted by Vestavia Hills Baptist Church 2600 Vestavia Drive 35216

18 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

life

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Tournament Tees Off Golf Classic Benefits aTeam Ministries

Clockwise, from above: Avery Thrower tees off at Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley golf course; Jacob Dubois is ready for a round of golf; professional baseball player Tim Hudson, left, with Stephen and Connor Holland. Photos special to the Journal

Golfers and golf enthusiasts teed off for a good cause recently at the Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley golf course.

The “18 for aTeam” Charity Golf Classic was presented on Nov. 1 by M.J. Harris Construction Services. The event raised more than $45,000 for aTeam Ministries.

There were 161 players in 42 foursome teams participating in the fundraising golf tournament, including Tim Hudson of the Atlanta Braves and Tim and Wes Helms, former Atlanta Braves and Miami Marlins players.

All proceeds from the event will support patient family programs that aTeam Ministries has created for children and families going through the pediatric cancer journey.

The honorary starters for the tournament were children who have been diagnosed with pediatric cancer. ❖

Indoor Walk Supports Alzheimer’s Organization

GREAT CLIPS

Greystone (next to WalMart)

437-9996 GREAT CLIPS

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969-1140 M-F: 9-9, SAT: 9-6, SUN: 11-5

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Hundreds laced up their sneakers for a good cause at the Riverchase Galleria recently.

Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama held its 19th annual Walking to Remember event at the mall on Nov. 2.

The three-mile indoor walk helped raise money to support Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama in its efforts to support research; provide education, emotional and practical support to families and patients living with Alzheimer’s disease; and to provide scholarships for continence products or to attend adult day care programs.

After the walk, supporters gathered for refreshments and fun activities, including balloons made by clowns. The Vestavia Hills High School jazz band provided music for the event, including a rendition of the national anthem by former Miss Alabama Amanda Tapley.

Each year at the walk, a moment of silence pays tribute to those who have been lost to Alzheimer’s and those who

Murray Hiam, Sue Ruffing and Polly Piggott, from left, at Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama19th annual Walking to Remember event. Photo special to the Journal

are still on their journeys. It also serves as a sign of support for the thousands of caregivers living with the day-today demands of caring for their patients.

For more information on Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, visit www.alzca.org or call 871-7970. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

life

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 19

20 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Holiday Highlight Poinsettia Ball Set for Dec. 28

The Poinsettia Men’s Club and Ballet Women’s Committee will host the 46th annual Poinsettia Ball Dec. 28 at Vestavia Country Club.

The Ballet Women’s Committee was founded in 1960 to foster and promote fine arts in the greater Birmingham area.

All proceeds of the ball support the Alabama Ballet.

Thirty-three young women will be presented at 9 p.m. in the club’s ball-

room. The debutantes will be introduced at the Benefactor’s Dinner before being presented at the ball. Chairmen of the dinner are Sarah Francis Shotts and Leigh Ann Yielding.

Mary Angelo is the Ball Board president. Susan Vawter is the ball chairman, and Sherry Bohorfoush is social secretary. Men’s Club president is John Cade.

Other Ball Board members include

Rebecca Leann Bell, daughter of the Rev. and Mrs. Dewitt Thomason Bell Jr.

Meredith Benson Botes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bradford Wayne Botes Sr.

Emily Elizabeth Burleson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey James Burleson.

Mary Kathryn Fletcher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Barton Fletcher II.

Laura Katherine Freeman, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Jack Barfield Freeman.

Laura Ann Krannich, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Larry Kent Krannich.

Evelyn Jennings Lewis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Hatfield Lewis.

Lauren Elizabeth Marino, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Anthony Marino.

Michelle Kathleen Pierce, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Michael Pierce.

Ariel Michelle Reynolds, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Scott Christopher Reynolds.

Abigail Caroline Rose, daughter of Mrs. Robin Haisten Rose.

Sarah Bryan, Liz Phillips Guest, Nancy Kennedy, Frances McAleer, Denise Oliver and Tammy Towns.

Committee chairmen include Una Ray Barnett, decorations; Ruby Cade and Celia Anthony, programs; Elizabeth Ferguson, publicity; Mary Esther Mathis, photographer’s assistant; Allison Miller, rehearsal; Patti Pierce, invitations; and Lisa Stevenson, reserved seating.

The young women are presented by their fathers or another escort of their choice. After being presented, the debutantes and their escorts continue the evening with a waltz followed by their guests dancing to the music of Az Izz. For ticket information to the ball, call Patti Pierce at 617-2460. For the Benefactor’s Dinner, call Leigh Ann Yielding at 978-2113 or Sarah Francis Shotts at 968-9650. ❖

Leah Olivia Beard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Gary Beard.

Sara Emily Carlton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bennett Carlton.

Catherine MacKenzie Cullen, daughter of Mr. Stephen Gary Cullen.

Danielle Marie DuBose, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Gerard DuBose.

Megan Roxanne Early, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Todd Russell Early.

Caitlin Morgan Hudson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Mark Hudson.

Allyson Lang Jennings, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Williamson Jennings Jr.

Kirsten Rachel Julian, daughter of Dr. Rachel Ann Hendrickson Julian and Dr. Bruce Allen Julian.

Hannah Kaufman Kahn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Maxwell Kahn.

Schuyler Grace McCammon, daughter of Ms. Sally Sanders McCammon and Mr. Robert Rick McCammon.

Margaret Elizabeth McDaniel, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Benjamin Glasgow McDaniel Jr.

Margaret Claire Murphy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Robert Murphy Jr.

Britney Woods Oliver, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lee Oliver II.

Brantley Elizabeth Peddy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albry Joe Peddy.

Kendall Leigh Schilling, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Joseph Schilling III.

Anne Grace Schmidtke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Gerald Schmidtke.

Julia Hannah Vawter, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Edward Vawter Sr. and Mr. and Mrs. Scott Andrew Colson.

Kathryn Jessica Walls, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carmage Lee Walls Jr.

Mary Kathryn Woods, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Keith Allen Woods.

Stephanie Spear Burrus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Wayne Burrus.

Anwhitney Snowden Katie Elizabeth Gould, Glisson, daughter of daughter of Mr. and Dr. Elizabeth Snowden Mrs. William Rickles Glisson and Mr. Charles White and Mr. James Maher Glisson.

Leonard Gould.

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 21

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Imperial Accents Maestro’s Ball Has Russian Theme

T

hose attending a recent fundraiser for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra were treated to the sounds of the Imperial Courts of Russia.

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s annual Maestro’s Ball was held on Sept.

6 at the Alys Stephens Center.

The Maestro’s Ball, hosted by Nancy and Ray Watts, raised more than $700,000 to support the ASO’s artistic, educational and outreach programs.

Guests enjoyed a champagne reception in the ASC lobby before a concert in the Jemison Concert Hall.

The concert featured the sounds of the Imperial Courts of Russia with a classical repertoire selected by Maestro Justin Brown.

After the concert, guests gathered for dinner on the ASC grounds under a sprawling tent covered with jewel tone fabric. The tent, lit to set an amber tone by Alex Garmin and his team at AG Lighting, was decorated with colored mercury glass vases filled with homegrown dahlias as well as other flowers provided by Sybil Sylvester of Wildflower Designs.

In keeping with the theme, the centerpiece was an ice sculpture of St. Basil’s Cathedral designed by Ice by Design.

Guests enjoyed a four-course meal created by Idie and Chris Hastings of Hot and Hot Fish Club. The dinner included deviled quail eggs with Alabama caviar, Hot and Hot’s tomato salad and grilled chicken breasts with McEwen and Sons grits, white peach, figs, muscadines and verjus. The final course was a raspberry and white chocolate bread pudding with Crème Chantilly.

On hand to capture the highlights of the evening was Arden Ward of Arden Ward Photography.

Kelly Fitzpatrick was the chairman of the 2013 Maestro’s Ball. Committee members included Dalton Blankenship, Dell Brooke, Maggie Brooke, Penney Hartline, Tricia Holbrook, Sheryl Kimerling, Rupa Kitchens, Lynn LaRussa, Connie McCallum, Tabatha McCallum, Harriet McFadden, Penny Page, Sherry Perry, Lynn Ritchie, Carolanne Roberts, Sybil Sylvester, Ellen Walker and Beth Williams.

Jim Gorrie chaired the 2013 Corporate Committee. Other committee members included Dell Brooke, Dixon Brooke, David Brown, Mike Goodrich, Miller Gorrie, Beau Grenier, Jim Hanson, Chris Harmon, Jim Hughey, Matt Lusco, Fred McCallum, Will Goodwyn, Craft O’Neal, Charles Perry, Jim Richardson, Steve Sanak, Stan Starnes and Marc Tyson. ❖

From left: Connie and Fred McCallum and Jim and Katherine Hansen.

Photos special to the Journal

it's time to hit the holiday "snooze button"... no, really, go ahead and program snoozy's phone number into your phone, 205.871.2662.

(Santa has!)

Now you can call us with

Keep the dream alive

hit the snooze button

an order... just give us an age, gender and your Karen and Ray Watts.

budget and it would be our pleasure to have a gift ready for you! Wrapped!

It's just that easy!!

Patti McDonald and Julius Lynn.

Crestline • 871-2662 Holiday Hours Mon. - Fri. 9-6 sat. 10-5 • sun 1-5

22 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Shooting for a Goal

Charity Clays Raises Money for Breast Cancer Survivors From left: Anola Ennis, Angie Brothers, Tom Bergob, Marcie DeBardeleben and Marilyn Whitlock.

Thousands of dollars were raised to benefit breast cancer survivors at a recent event at Selwood Farm in Alpine.

The Baptist Health Foundation hosted its sixth annual Alabama Charity Clays shooting event Oct. 23-25. The event included the Annie Oakley shooting event and men’s events.

The Sportsman’s Social was also held in conjunction with the event at Park Lane in Mountain Brook.

The event raised more than $150,000 more photos at to benefit the Breast Cancer Survivorship Network at Princeton Baptist Medical Center.

Since the Alabama Charity Clays fundraiser started in 2008, it has raised money for specific purposes within the Baptist Health System.

Proceeds from last year’s event were added to funds received from the Women’s Breast Health Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham to help Baptist create a breast cancer survivor network and resource center. This service will act as a unique hub for information, services and long-term support for breast cancer survivors and their families from across the region.

Photos special to the Journal

OTMJ.COM above: Sallie and Jim Johnson, Joe and Jane Bynum. left: Laura Sink and Renee Fenn. Below left: Gene Davenport, Betsy Postlethwait and Jim Emack.

In 2008, proceeds purchased beds and monitors for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Shelby.

A Faxitron was purchased in 2010 for the Breast Care Center at Princeton Baptist. This mobile digital radiography system provides on-thespot images for surgeons removing tumors in breast cancer patients.

Funds from the 2011 Alabama Charity Clays went toward the purchase of stereotactic breast biopsy equipment for Princeton Baptist. This fully-digital table biopsy system is designed for maximum patient comfort and lesion access.

Those attending the 2013 Alabama Charity Clays shooting events and Sportsman’s Dinner included Anola Ennis, Angie Brothers, Tom Bergob, Marcie DeBardeleben, Marilyn Whitlock, Chase Wise, Will Davenport and Gene Davenport.

Others supporting the fundraiser were Packy Mills, Emily Sanders, Donna Feemster, Tracy Farragut and Jeff Butler.

Also attending were Sallie Johnson, Jim Johnson, Joe Bynum and Jane Bynum. ❖

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 23

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Vestavia Garden Club Starts 65th Year The The Vestavia Foundation Hills Garden also coorClub’s 65th dinates season reservations kicked off on and provides Sept. 12 with rental inforthe opening mation to meeting for individuals the year at interested in the Vestavia renting Sibyl Hills Temple for Country weddings Club. and private The longevents. standing misAt the sion of the club’s opengarden club ing meeting, is to uphold The new officers of the Vestavia Hills Garden Club are, from left: Holly Roth, Pate Lathem, Rachael Hayes, Dawn Bendig, Claire Gwaltney and Sarah White. Journal photo by President through Keysha Drexel Dawn hard work Bendig welcomed new members Christine Brewer, and enthusiasm the treasured historical landmark known Tracey Gwaltney, Connie Hartley and Suzanne as Sibyl Temple. The replica of the temple of the goddess Heidepreim.

Vesta, overlooking the city of Vestavia, was moved to its Many of the upcoming events for the club and Sibyl present location from the Ward estate called “Vestavia” Temple Foundation were highlighted at the meeting. They in the late 1970s. The city of Vestavia Hills took its name include a blue lighting ceremony at Sibyl Temple in recfrom this estate. ognition of Operation Blue Shield, the annual Bid-N-Buy Sibyl Temple Foundation is a nonprofit organization luncheon and silent and live auctions to raise money for incorporated in 1992 by the Vestavia Hills Garden Club. the Sibyl Temple Foundation and the December Christmas The club members dedicate two workdays per month for decoration and tree lighting event at Sibyl Temple. ❖ the maintenance of the gazebo and its adjacent grounds.

Decking the Entrances

Inverness Garden Club Spruces Up Neighborhoods

Jeannie Burton and Dee Hewes of The Gardens of Inverness Garden Club show some of the new decorations the club has put up in Inverness. Photo special to the Journal

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Members of The Gardens of Inverness Garden Club have been busy decking the halls and put"No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than ting festive touches throughout the North Shelby the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers." community.

Club members have decorated the entrances of the Inverness Green, Inverness Point, Kerry Downs, Kirkwall, Summerwood, Town of Adam Brown and Woodford neighborhoods with swags and wreaths made from fresh greenery.

The garden club members also decorated the Jonathan and Kim gazebo in the Inverness neighborhood. To: The Gardens of Inverness Garden Club From:was Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 organized and federated in 1989. The club has a FAX: 205-824-1246 history of beautification and philanthropy work inSept. 2013 Date: the Inverness area.

The club has previously received second-place This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the honors for the most outstanding Christmas lightOctober 3rd, 2013 issue. Please email or fax approval or changes to 824-1246. ing project by the Garden Club of Alabama. ❖

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Fall Festivities Charades Host Party at Historic Enslen House

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The Charades Dance Club held a fall party on Oct. 20 at the historic Enslen House, which was built in 1910 and is presently the site of the Trimmier Law Firm.

Greeting members as they arrived were hosts Rae and Steve Trimmier along with Charades President Diane Weatherford and Allen.

Party committee members were Carolyn Satterfield, chairman, and Anne Lamkin, Karen Lloyd, Barbara Lynch, Verna Lyons, Lee Marks, Beth McDavid and Joanie Miree.

Enjoying the soiree with the planning committee were Bill Satterfield,

Tom Lamkin, Keith Lloyd, Cliff Lynch and Bill McDavid. Also assisting with the party was Sally Aman, club treasurer, with Carlos White.

Enjoying wine and hors d’oeuvres on the front lawn and the porch of the Enslen house were Kathi and Roger Ash, Jeanne and Harry Bradford, Warren Cain, Betsy and Frank Canterbury, Naomi and Kirk Cunningham, Anne and Ken Dawson, Sara Lynn and Fox

Front, from left: Barbara Lynch and Diane Weatherford. Back: Karen Lloyd, Carolyn Satterfield, Rae Trimmier, Lee Marks, Anne Lamkin and Beth McDavid.

DeFuniak, Katie and Brad Dunn, Anne and Rick Finch, Diane and Tom Gamble, Claire and Pat Goodhew and Carolyn Featheringill with Ivan Rich.

Also gathered on the lawn of the neoclassical, two-story brick mansion were Leslie Puckett with Les

Kirk and Naomi Cunningham, Marianne and Paul Sharbel, Carole Ann and Bob Moorer.

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ake sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

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Admiring the interior of the building with its stained and leaded glass windows, large marble fireplaces and German millwork and molding were Gayle and Mike Byrne, Marianne and Paul Sharbel, Lynn and Wheeler Smith, Becky Powell, Evelyn and Steve Bradley, Ellen and Russell Cunningham, Carol and Jerry Corvin, Martha Cobb with Tom Roberts, Barbara Chapman, Annie and Maurice Green, Anne Carey, George Ann and Alton Parker, Judy and Jim Carns and Emily and Tom Scarbrough.

The buffet dinner catered by Unique Impressions included chicken breasts Marsala, pecan and herb encrusted pork tenderloin, wild rice pilaf, Swiss stuffed new potatoes, green beans parmesan, roasted asparagus, Caesar salad, spinach salad with fruit and almonds, corn muffins and an assortment of mini pickup desserts.

Enjoying the dinner at tables with centerpieces of magnolia and mixed greenery from the grounds of the Enslen House were Patsy and Stanley Burns, Nell and Bob Henderson, Jan and Jim Hughey, Susan Pitts, Lou Ann and George Sherling, Rita and Burr Spencer, Becky Rollins, Diana and Bill Turnipseed, Karen and Charlie Watkins, Carolyn and Delmar Hill, Dale and John Holditch, Laurie Haworth, Mary and David Putman, Susan and Lee Reeves, Helen and Ty Robin, Susan Strickland, Kathleen and Ray Watkins, Loretta and Hugh Hood and Louise and Durham Ellis.

Robert Robinson entertained the crowd throughout the party. He sang a variety of songs, from country hits on the porch to Italian opera in the Tiffany window niche during the buffet service and big band tunes during dinner. ❖

Social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Penthouse Party

Pamela Project Launches at Kress Building The Kress Building Penthouse in Birmingham was the setting for the recent kickoff event for The Pamela Project.

Friends, family members and Pamela Project board members gathered for the fun event atop the historic building overlooking the city.

The Pamela Project is a nonprofit foundation named after Pamela Cezayiril, a 12-year-old girl who died of a preventable aneurism. The foundation’s mission is to encourage parents to uncover their children’s health risks.

Among those attending the kickoff event were board members Libby Pantazis, Diane Mills, Jann Gentle, Martee Barnes and Pam Cezayiril.

Others at the party on the decorated penthouse veranda were Ann Phillips Hartie, Carolyn Ratliff, Jean and Jim Dent, Emily Ager, Christine McFadden, Cyndy Uncapher and Tory and Armand Dekeyser.

Also spotted at the event were Billy Mills, D.G. Pantazis, Sam Pointer, Nan Broughton, Patty Gilbert, Mary Owen, Carroll Magro, Pam Bullock, Paul Pinkerton and Angela Comfort.

Medical board advisers Doris Philips Wayman and Liz Hodges also attended.

Dr. Cem Cezayiril, Pamela’s father, and her brothers, Cameron and Phillip, were also present for the event.

Terry Slaughter made a special presentation about the foundation’s message, new logo and mission.

Yellow Bicycle Catering Co. catered the party. ❖

From left: Lee Clark, Rosemary Wee, Charles Valekis, Katherine Smith and Katie LaRussa.

Photos special to the Journal

Diane Mills, Libby Pantazis, Pam Cezayiril, Martee Barnes and Jann Gentle.

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 25

26 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Estate Jewelry Estate Silver Fine Photographs

From left: Kyle Wade, Page Israel, Gwen BelleIsle and Barb Kelley.

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Black Dress Bash Luncheon, Fashion Show Event Helps Assistance League

Members and supporters of the Assistance League of Birmingham Holiday This isOpen yourHouse AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL the their favorite little recentlyfor donned Thurs.Oct. Dec.6,5th 2011 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. black dresses for a good cause.

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Assistance League of Birmingham hosted its Little Black Dress Please make sure all information is correct, Luncheon and Fashion Show on Nov. including address and phone number!

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2841 Cahaba Road The annual affair benefits the three Villagewithin • 879-5277 Please initial Mtn. andBrook fax back 24 hours. philanthropic programs of Assistance League--PrimeTime Treasures, M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-4before the press date, If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday Operations School Bell and Operation your ad will run as is.

We print the paper Monday. www.thecookstoremtnbrook.com Thank you for your prompt attention. Literacy.

Chairmen of the event were Melinda Thornbury and Char Bonsack. President Jan Service welcomed guests to the luncheon.

Dr. Julie C Harper, MD Attendees enjoyed lunch while Rebecca Edwards, CRNP admiring the table centerpieces of tiny Jennifer Hewitt, PA wire mannequins dressed in black satin with a crystal brooch, designed

by Dot McClurg. At each table, a lucky person won a bottle of wine donated by Liz and Tom Warren.

To: thecookstore@msn.com Darcy Schofill won the raffle From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: Nov.. 2013

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Dinner

Hilltop Montessori School in the Town of Mt Laurel hosted a Deep Roots Gardening Dinner on Nov. 14 at the Stone’s Throw Bar and Grill restaurant.

The event, catered by Chef Chris Harrigan, will benefit the school.

There were 130 guests attending the event, which included a live auction by Jack Granger of Granger, Thagard & Associates.

Sponsors included Pilates on the Highland, EBSCO Industries, Newsome Law LLC, Chez Fon Fon, Hot and Hot Fish Club and Dr. Heidi Umphrey.

Guests dined on an exclusive menu supplemented by the school’s

prize, a silver and turquoise necklace and earring set donated by James Avery.

White House Black Market showcased new fall and winter fashions at the event.

Ann Shonk from White House

Beth Clarke, Paige Israel, Barbara Kelley, Paula Verdu, Kylie Wade, Mary Ann Wade, Heidi Wason and Ann Whitaker.

High Designs Jewelry, Trisha Stanfa Jewelry, Southern Natural Soap and Merry Cheese Chips sold

Beth Clarke, Paula Verdu, Heidi Wason, Mary Ann Wade, Colleen Adams and Ann Whitaker. Photos special to the Journal

Black Market emceed the show with assistance from Tiffany Johnson.

Assistance League members modeling in the fashion show included Coleen Adams, Gwen Belle-Isle,

their wares, with a portion of the purchases supporting the nonprofit programs of Assistance League.

The Goodfellas II provided jazz music for the event. ❖

gardens that included a baby green mixed salad, slow-braised boneless beef short ribs, shrimp and grits and roast chicken breasts with sweet potato gratin. Desserts were dark chocolate cream pie and pumpkin-cranberry bread pudding.

The live auction raised more than $40,000 in less than 45 minutes.

Sarah and Eddy Yang won Chris Hastings’ Personal Chef for the Evening dinner for eight. Bruce and Carla Irwin won an extreme make-

over package and the Stone’s Throw Private Dinner Party for eight. Other popular live auction items included a week in New Mexico, a Wine and Dine package and a downtown party for foodies hosted by Dr. and Mrs. Michael Wilensky.

Spotted at the event were Catherine and Tim Prince, Norman and Nicole Saia, Missy and Stewart Waddell, Sarah and Penny Whiteside, Natalie and Scott Reddington and Sally Dollar. ❖

From left: Cindi Stehr, Brandon and Kim Smith.

Photo special to the Journal

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Bulldogs Have a Ball

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 27

Dance Kicks Off Samford’s Homecoming

Samford University students began 2013 homecoming weekend activities with an elegant on-campus ball Nov. 14.

More than 1,000 students and guests danced under the light of chandeliers in Seibert Hall to the sounds of Birmingham-based St. Paul and the Broken Bones. The popular soul group includes recent Samford graduates Ben Griner and Allen Branstetter.

A highlight of the evening was the introduction of the homecoming court and announcement of the queen and king: seniors Rachel Gregory, an elementary education major from Brentwood, Tenn., and Jacob Hamilton, an English major from Dallas. They were selected by vote of the student body from among other senior class nominees.

The winners were announced

by Samford President Andrew Westmoreland and his wife, Jeanna.

The court also included freshmen Annie Elizabeth Smith and Jay Davis, sophomores Kara Young and John Griffith Riles, juniors Archie Jay Morris and Emily Ellen Elder and seniors Alexander Mathes Ballard, Kaitlyn Lauren Flinn, Rebekah Robinson and Matthew Timonthy Taylor.

Court members were introduced by officers of their respective classes: senior class secretary Caroline Dill, junior president Andrew Bragg, sophomore president Garrett Greer and freshman president Porter Rivers.

Seibert Hall, best known for its use as a gym, was transformed into an elegant ballroom by Kathy G & Company. White draping provided a backdrop for five glittering chande-

From left: Christi Harrison, Lauren Klein and Mackenzie Davis.

Photos special to the Journal

William Petty and Caroline Shunk.

Rachel Gregory, left and Jacob Hamilton were named queen and king at the Samford Homecoming Ball on Nov. 14.

liers overhead and soft candlelight throughout the space. Tables featured white cloths with centerpieces of candles and sparkling glass bowls.

Samford’s Campus Dining, Inc.

staff produced a dessert reception that included two chocolate fountains and treats for dipping, pastries, assorted mousses, a cheesecake bar and, in a nod to the school colors, a red and blue-themed candy bar with handy to-go bags.

The ball kicked off a busy weekend of homecoming activities for Samford students and alumni. ❖

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28 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Chef Antony Osborne, Taso Touloupis, Nicholas Hartmann, Becky Satterfield, George Reis, Connie Blalock and Jerry Hartley. Photos special to the Journal

Chefs’ Celebration

Breakin’ Bread Festival Marks 10th Anniversary Chefs from 47 of Birmingham’s best restaurants, cafes, bistros and bakeries were at Railroad Park recently to celebrate a special anniversary.

The chefs gathered on Oct. 13, the 10th anniversary of the Birmingham Originals’ Breakin’ Bread-Local Flavor Festival.

The annual event is an educational opportunity to showcase the talents of locally-owned restaurants and their chefs who have helped make Birmingham a culinary destination and to raise funds for local charities.

Guests enjoyed a wide variety of food samplings from Birmingham independent restaurants along with wine and beer tastings.

Festival guests were treated to musical entertainment from Bonus Round.

In the VIP area, chefs James Boyce of Cotton Row Restaurant in Huntsville, Wes True from True in Montgomery, Rob McDaniel from SpringHouse in Alexander City and Joshua Quick from Odette Restaurant in Florence served their specialty dishes in a private seated area with servers, upscale wines and designer adult beverages.

The Birmingham Originals, a coalition of independent restaurants owners, chefs and caterers, promote the Birmingham food scene and support needs in the community.

The festival has emerged as one of the premier food and wine events in the state. The organization has donated more than $25,000 to local charities. This year’s festival benefited Camp Smile a Mile, the University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center, United Way of Central Alabama’s Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities program and the Birmingham Zoo. The 2014 Breakin’ Bread Festival will be on Oct. 5. ❖ Above: Face painting was popular for some who attended the 10th annual event. left: Karim Shamsi-Basha, with his sons Dury and Zade, enjoy the variety of foods offered at the festivial.

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Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 29

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Welcoming New Members

Gaieties Gather for Annual Luncheon The Gaieties Club held its annual fall luncheon meeting at the Country Club of Birmingham recently.

President Jackie MacClary presided at the meeting, which included the other new club officers for the 2013-14 club year.

Becky Bates is vice president, Carolyn Featheringill is corresponding secretary, Joyce Lott is recording secretary, Sandra Oden is treasurer, Bette Owen is assistant treasurer and Brownie Evans is parliamentarian.

Membership committee members are Virginia Tucker, Margaret Ritchie and Lynne Hennessy.

Brownie Evans, Edith Medley and Ann Baker are on the nominating committee. Doris White is heading up publicity, and Cheryl Williams is

Pre-wedding Party Family, Friends Celebrate Couple’s Engagement

Gaieties Club officers gather at the annual fall luncheon. From left: Virginia Tucker, Sandra Oden, Becky Bates, Jackie MacClary, Joyce Lott, Brownie Evans and Carolyn Featheringill. Photo special to the Journal

in charge of the yearbooks.

New members were also announced at the meeting. They are Kim Day, Julie Carmichael, Betsy Brantley and Barbara Klyce.

Bates, who is also the ball chairman this year, told members about plans for the Christmas party, which will have the theme of The Black Swan Ball.

Following the meeting, those attending dined at round tables centered with yellow sunflowers and orange thistle in black planter boxes.

Others at the event included Martha Bradford, Margie Bates, Fay Hall, Linda Sue Johnson, Susie Kissel, Ann Martin, Ann Massey, Lenora McCalley, Betsy Miller, Peggy Morgan, Jane Morris, Dana McCarn, Katharine Patton, Helen Pittman, Natasha Randolph, Dorothy Ratliff, Hallie Rawls, Mary Russell, Gail Sharp, Elaine Smith, Mary Steiner, Roslyn Stroud, Suzanne Wald, Elizabeth Waitzman, Margaret Whitaker and Doris Wilson. ❖

such as prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, cocktail shrimp shooters, gourmet mac ‘n cheese bites, and Caprese pops of freshly grown tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. For dessert, guests enjoyed cheesecake stuffed strawberries.

The evening was topped off with a champagne toast to Anna and Ben, given by the father of the bride.

Guests joined in with cheers.

Those attending the celebration included J.W. and Charlotte Hall, Scott and Jami Fischer, Kelly Braley, Russell and Ellen Cunningham, Richard and Beverly Gray, Liz Harris, Justin Brown, Lauren Maisel, Emily Burkett, Kyle Beverforden, Joe and Betsy Bullock, Jason and Kathy Vandiver and Mackey McDanal. ❖

Kirkland and Naomi Cunningham celebrated the engagement of their daughter, Anna Cook Cunningham, to Richard Benjamin Gray in their Mountain Brook home on Aug. 3 with family members and friends.

Guests traveled from across the country to celebrate the couple before their Nov. 9 wedding in New Orleans.

The cocktail hour menu included some of the couple’s favorite dishes,

Outside finished.

From left: Anna Cunningham and Kirk and Naomi Cunningham.

Photo special to the Journal

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30 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

HOme

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Also in this section

Jennifer Cope, Margaret Shuttlesworth and Kathy Thompson, from left, are chairmen of the 64th Independent Presbyterian Church Holiday House Tour to be held Dec. 14-15.

The one-of-a-kind light fixture of the Yanceys’ dining room table was made out of a chicken feeder and other pieces Danielle salvaged and put together with the help of her father.

Overseas Inspiration Yanceys’ Mediterranean-style Home Is On Legacy League Tour

F

Story by Keysha Drexel • Photos by Lee Walls Jr.

The Independent Presbyterian Church’s Holiday House Tour is always a fun way to get Christmas decorating ideas according to Hilary Ross, public relations chairman for this year’s event. Page 35

irst-time guests at the home of Danielle and Bart Yancey might think their house was plucked from a winding hillside road in Greece or Spain and nestled in Vestavia Hills. But in reality, the Mediterranean-style home at 2312 Shades Crest Road is just barely a year old and is completely homegrown.

The Yanceys’ home is one of five being featured on this year’s Legacy League Christmas Home Tour on Dec. 12.

The couple built the two-story house in 2012 and moved in just two months before Christmas last year.

“This will be our second Christmas in the house, and we’re really excited about being on the home tour this year,” Danielle said. “We’ve had time to settle in now, and we’re glad to have a chance to open up our home for the holidays.”

The Yanceys owned a house built in the 1950s on the same site before they decided to completely tear it down and build a new house.

“We lived in the house that was here for about eight years, and about six and half years into it, we thought about adding on and making renovations,” Danielle said. “We even thought about buying another house, but we couldn’t really find anything that we loved.”

So after consulting with an architect and a contractor on possible renovations to their existing house, the couple decided their best bet would be to build a house

that better suited their needs and reflected their style.

“It was just going to be a lot, a lot of major renovations, so when the architect suggested that we start from scratch, we decided to just go for it,” she said. “They took it down to the foundation.”

Although they originally hadn’t planned on taking on the task of designing an entirely new house, Danielle said the couple jumped into the planning process with both feet.

See Yancey, page 32

ipc tour includes redmont, mountain brook homes

Samford President Andy Westmoreland and his wife, Jeanna Westmoreland, at 1994 Shades Crest Road.

legacy league tour features five homes

Holiday Home: Danielle and Bart Yancey will welcome visitors to their Shades Crest Road home during the Legacy League’s Home Tour on Dec. 12, top. Danielle’s mother hand-embroidered the intricate design on this Christmas tree skirt, above, that Danielle uses every year. Fresh greenery adorned with a burlap bow and large copper ornaments decorate a banister in the Yanceys’ home, above left.

Guests on this year’s Legacy League Christmas Home Tour will have plenty of chances to get in the holiday spirit after seeing the season’s best on display in five homes in the Over the Mountain area. Page 32

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

34 • Thursday, October

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 31

home VESTAVIA SPECIAL SECTION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

NEW HOME TRENDS: Traditional Transition creates gracious and exciting living By: Helen Vance THE MARTIN PLAN at Liberty Park (Main-level) JACUZZI

With the Owner’s Suite on the main floor, The Martin’s floor plan showcases its traditional elegance and transitional styling.

Owner’s

Patio Laundry D

Dressing

W

Cookery

Quickly becoming a favorite of Birmingham’s families, Traditional Transition homes are not easy to find and when they are available, they sell quickly. An excellent example of this new design trend is The Martin at Liberty Park.

The Martin features sophisticated styling that

Great Room

SINK

Known as Traditional Transition design, this newest trend expands on the spacious and formal living we all love in traditional architecture, yet it has a contemporary and open excitement that is fresh, simple and still beautifully gracious.

appeals to families’ desire for a rich sense of elegance perfectly balanced with open and casual living areas. The 5-bedroom home’s columned exterior is brought inside with a grand staircase into the formal foyer, a private Study or Guest Suite, and a columned Dining Room that opens to the expansive, gourmet-styled Cookery and Great Room.

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There is a new look to the stately elegance of Traditional architecture and it’s creating a wave of excitement in new home designs.

D/W

The in-demand Traditional Transition design trend is showcased in The Martin at Liberty Park

Buyer incentive of $5,000 toward closing costs available on pre-sale contracts finalized by 12.31.2013. Certain limitations and legal requirements apply. Ask Liberty Park Properties sales representatives for details.

Pantry

Drop Zone

Dining

Garage

Foyer Suite / Study

Bath 2

To see The Martin plan and other examples of the Traditional Transition design trend, call (205) 945 6401 or visit www.libertypark.com

The Martin’s second-level floor plan features a large and open Loft, three Bedrooms with Baths and an optional Bonus Room.

magically designed for the one thing kids like to play with most. other kids.

Yes, of course you’ll find an awe-inspiring community brilliantly planned with lakes, a community pool, parks and walking trails, tennis courts, ball fields and playgrounds. Everything big kids and little kids could want. But when over 1,200 families chose Liberty Park as their new home, suddenly magic happened. And new kids found new friends, and new friends became best friends. And who is more fun to play with than your very best friends? Come discover the charms of Liberty Park today. After all, a little enchantment makes every day better.

New homes, new models and beautiful new neighborhoods now open.

Welcome Center open daily. Prices from the high $300s to over $2 million.

Home to the highly-rated Vestavia Hills Elementary and Middle Schools at Liberty Park.

All information contained herein deemed accurate but not warranted. Neither Liberty Park Properties nor its builders and agents are responsible for errors or omissions. Plan information subject to change without notice.

liberty park JOINT VENTURE LLP

205 945 6401 www.libertypark.com

32 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

home

Yancey, From page 30

“We were more excited than intimidated by having that blank slate to work with, and we had ideas on how we wanted the house to look,” she said.

For inspiration, the couple had to look no further than their vacation photos, Danielle said.

“We’ve traveled to Barcelona and Greece and really loved that Mediterranean style of architecture,” she said. “We had already planned on building in that style before we went to Greece, but after going there and seeing all the beautiful white buildings and the arches, it sealed the deal.

We came back and decided to paint everything white to remind us of Santorini and Mykonos.”

The couple worked with architect Byron Smith of Studio Smith Architecture in Birmingham to formulate a plan to bring those Mediterranean influences to life.

“I gave him a lot of pictures of things that we liked, and he took all those elements and put them together, and we loved his design,” Danielle said.

In fact, the couple had only one major change from the plans Smith first presented them with for the new house, she said.

“We were at Southern Accents Architectural Antiques in Cullman and saw these gorgeous old doublearched wooden doors, and we knew we had to change the original plans that called for regular, rectangular doors on the front of the house,” Danielle said.

Inside, the home features four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, 10-foot ceilings and open, light-filled rooms.

“In our old house, we had a lot of closed rooms, and having open spaces in the new house was definitely a priority,” Danielle said. “We wanted to be able to go easily from the kitchen to the dining room to the family room. It’s perfect for entertaining.”

From the hand-finished plank

Silver reindeer figurines, left, add the right touch of shine to the feathers, pinecones and other natural textures in the home’s decor.

Danielle said she likes to whip up festive drinks during the holidays, like these rosemary Lemontinis.

Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

flooring to the weathered ceiling beams, wood figures heavily in the home’s interior design.

The wooden elements are highlighted by the interior’s white walls and neutral color palette. Texture is layered on with natural materials like suede, stone and aged metals.

“We were going for that rustic feel with all the natural, organic elements,” Danielle said.

But the home’s decor also has luxurious touches, like marble countertops, gold and silver accessories and mercury glass accents throughout.

“I like the rustic, natural elements, but I also like the shiny things,” Danielle said. “I guess I don’t like to follow the rules when it comes to what goes with what. We just used the things that we like.”

That combination of rustic and luxe in the Mediterranean style is evident in the home’s airy, light-filled kitchen, which opens to the family room and dining room and offers views of the stonework patio in the

backyard.

The kitchen features professionalgrade stainless steel appliances and white marble countertops but also has rustic touches like the open shelves made from logs that were cut in half and barely sanded.

“I think some of them still have splinters,” Danielle said, laughing.

Another example of this rustic luxe style is the pecky cypress island in the kitchen. The island is accented with an unexpectedly modern twist-clear, acrylic bar stools.

“We had these wrought-iron bar stools there at first but found that they were detracting a little bit from the pecky cypress on the island, and so I saw these acrylic stools and thought I’d give them a try,” Danielle said. “I really like that unexpected mix of the two styles, and I like to think outside of the box.”

That outside-of-the-box thinking also inspired the one-of-a-kind chandelier over the couple’s dining room

for more information please Call mike wedgworth: 205.365.4344

See Yancey, next page

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Seasonal Showcases

Legacy League Tour Features Five Homes Guests on this year’s Legacy League Christmas Home Tour will have plenty of chances to get in the holiday spirit after seeing the season’s best on display in five homes in the Over the Mountain area.

The Legacy League, an auxiliary of Samford University, will present its third annual Christmas Home Tour Dec. 12.

There are four homes in Vestavia Hills and one home in Mountain Brook on the 2013 tour.

Proceeds help provide scholarships to Samford University for deserving students with financial need.

The homes on the 2013 tour include newer houses that look like they’ve been a part of their neighborhoods for decades and a home built last year that blends Mediterranean and European influences.

A must-see stop on the tour every year is the home of Samford President Andy Westmoreland and his wife, Jeanna Westmoreland, at 1994 Shades Crest Road in Vestavia Hills.

Owned for many years by Dr. Dan Merck, a Samford trustee, and his wife, Barbara, the house was acquired by the university in 2007.

Renovations were completed before the Westmorelands moved in and included the addition of a downstairs ballroom with a view of the Samford University campus.

The tour will also feature the home of Redonda and Lowell Broom at 2604 Vesclub Circle in Vestavia Hills.

Visitors to the Broom home will see plenty of antiques among the holiday finery in the house, which was built in 1983.

Redonda Broom said the house she has shared for 21 years with her husband, Lowell Broom, the chair of Samford’s Department of Accounting and Information Systems, has an English flair.

Those stopping at the Broom house on the Legacy League tour will see the antique collection Redonda has amassed since she was a child.

“I love one-of-a kind things, and I love old things,” she said.

Just down the road, tour guests will be treated to a unique holiday experience when they visit the home of Danielle and Bart Yancey at 2312 Shades Crest Road in Vestavia Hills.

Built in 2012, the home’s architectural style is an eclectic mix of Mediterranean and European influences and has an interior that blends rustic elements with modern sensibilities.

The Yanceys owned the home that was previously on the lot but decided to start from scratch to build their dream house.

Also in Vestavia Hills, Legacy League tour guests can visit the home of Janet and Jarry Taylor at 237 Monterey Place.

Working with Thompson Architects, the Taylors built the English countrystyle home in 2006. The home features a shake roof and other historical nods and an expansive, open interior

Phyllis (above) and Roye Tinsley at 2800 Overhill Road.

Janet and Jarry Taylor at 237 Monterey Place.

Redonda and Lowell Broom at 2604 Vesclub Circle. flooded with natural light.

“We’ve lived in an old house and then in a new house out in Liberty Park, so we thought this design was a combination of the modern and the historic,” Janet Taylor said.

The Taylor home is filled with a mix of Oriental pieces from Janet’s mother and father. Janet’s father, the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps and a Medal of Honor recipient, acquired the pieces during his travels abroad.

The medal will be on display during the home tour, Janet said.

Visitors to the home of Phyllis and Roye Tinsley at 2800 Overhill Road will be greeted with Christmas cheer in every room of the ranch-style house.

Built in 1947 by Donald Beatty, an explorer and aviator, the house was in disrepair when the Tinsleys bought it about 10 years ago, Phyllis Tinsley, who is head of Tinsley Realty, said.

The Tinsleys renovated the house from top to bottom and included elements to reflect their travels to France.

Visitors will see lavish Christmas decorations in every room, including the kitchen.

Just about every room in the house will have at least one Christmas tree, Phyllis Tinsley said, and the sleeping porch will have two trees.

A tree in the guest bedroom will be decked out with toy airplanes as a tribute to the man who built the house.

The travel and exploration theme is finished off with the vintage suitcases nestled under the tree.

Holiday hors d’oeuvres will be served at the Westmorelands’ home.

Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased online through Dec. 10 at www.samford.edu/legacyleague.

Tickets are $35 at the door and can be purchased at the first home visited.

Homes may be toured in any order.

For more information, visit the website or call 726-2247. --Keysha Drexel

Arceneaux Galler 802-5800 • Tues. - Sat. 10-5

SoHo Square Homewood

Yancey,

From previous page

table, which itself is made of weathered reclaimed wood.

The chandelier, which spans the length of the long dining room table, is made out of parts of a chicken feeder that Danielle found at an antique shop in Atlanta.

“I saw it and thought that I could make a light out of it. The length was perfect, and all I had to do was figure out how to wire it and hang it from the ceiling,” she said.

For that, Danielle enlisted her father’s help and lucked out by finding two huge ropes that were already wired for lighting at a salvage store.

“I took everything up to my dad, and he wired it and we cleaned it up, rubbed the rust off it and finished it.

I like that it’s a totally unique piece that you won’t find anywhere else,” she said.

A native of Dothan, Danielle said she developed her sense of style after graduating from Auburn University with a degree in apparel merchandising. But she said she can remember that even as a child, she had an opinion on the way her room should look.

“Now that I think about it, I was always particular about the decor in my room when I was little,” she said, laughing.

Danielle’s husband, Bart, grew up in Memphis, Tenn., but moved to the Over the Mountain area when he was in high school. He graduated from Briarwood Christian School and

To: From: Date:

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 33

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

went on to play football at Samford University as quarterback.

He now owns his own company, Enrollment Advisors, a benefits enrolling company for corporations, Danielle said.

The couple have been married a little more than 10 years and have two dogs that they adopted from shelters.

Danielle said even before the couple built their new house, she was always happy to break out the Christmas decorations.

“Christmas was always a big deal in my house growing up, and decorating every year is something that I always look forward to,” she said.

For the Legacy League Christmas Home Tour, Danielle is decking the halls of her home with both newfound and long-held treasures.

Visitors will be greeted by several different trees throughout the house,

Danielle said, including a footballthemed one in a guest room upstairs.

The big, 9-foot tree in the family room downstairs will be adorned with a hand-embroidered Christmas tree skirt that Danielle’s mother made for her.

“It is so detailed and just amazing, and I know it took my mother forever to make this for me. It is definitely something that I will use every year and something I’ve used every year since she gave it to me at one of my bridal showers,” she said.

The tree in the family room will have lots of rustic ornaments, Danielle said, including wooden stars, feathered owl ornaments and, to mix it up, shiny mercury glass ornaments.

Danielle said she’s likely to have a few surprises in store for those who visit her home on the Legacy League Christmas Home Tour this year.

“I like that element of the unexpected, and that goes for my Christmas decorations, too,” she said.

“I can’t wait to welcome everybody in and to be a part of the tour.” ❖

Libby Pantazis

Arceneaux Gallery 802-5800 • Tues. - Sat. 10-5

SoHo Square Homewood

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To: Christo;pher Randy From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax FAX: 205-824-1246 Nov. 2013 Date: Nov. 2013 This is your aD pROOF from the OveR The MOuNTaiN JOuRNal for the is your to ad824-1246. proof from the over the mountain Journal for the Nov. 28, 2013 issue. please fax approval This or changes nov. 28, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

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

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

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

34 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Blessings to You & Yours

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

perry,

In Vicki’s study are a Byzantine belt buckle she bought in Montenegro and her grandmother’s silver clutch, meant to hold streetcar tokens.

From page 1

Redmont,” Vicki said.

Ferguson shared more than a business partnership with Jemison. The two Redmont developers were neighbors and also married sisters.

Vicki can read about her grandfather and his contributions to Redmont in her copy of “Worthy of Remembrance: A History of Redmont,” a book by Cathy Adams.

Adams, a well-known writer and gifted gardener who lives near the Perrys in Redmont, writes in the book that Ferguson and his wife, Louise, lived for more than 50 years at the house they built on Altamont Road.

Ferguson “worked tirelessly for the good of Birmingham and for the University of Alabama, which named him the school’s first Distinguished Alumnus,” Adams writes. UA’s Ferguson Center is named for Vicki’s grandfather as well.

Although the Perrys haven’t lived in Redmont for as long as Vicki’s grandparents did, they feel right at home at 1621 Lanark Place, Vicki said.

They moved to Redmont from a Cape Cod-style house in Mountain Brook in 2006.

“I love old houses,” Vicki said.

Their Redmont home, near Mountain Brook’s English village, fits that bill. Built in 1925, its first owners were Andrew and Helen Townes. Townes was president of the Remington Typewriter Co., Vicki said.

The next owner of the house was Harper Vaughn, followed by James H. Hand Jr. and Irvin C. Kinney.

“The Kinneys lived here for quite a while—from 1947 to at least 1965,” Vicki said. “People still say, ‘Oh, you’re in the Kinneys’ house.’”

A more recent homeowner updated the kitchen and added an expansive family room, Vicki said.

The Perrys made some improvements, too. They built a garage, and Vicki replaced the massive limestone fireplace in the living room with a wood-paneled one more in keeping with the room’s proportions.

She’s also filled the rooms with family treasures and her own finds. A Jacobean chest in the living room is an example of both.

“The chest was in my grandmother’s home on Essex Road,” Vicki said.

“Nobody else in the family showed an interest in it. I’d just gotten married, and I wanted it.”

Her husband’s mother, she said, “loved old boxes.” The Perrys inherited the collection, which includes decorative tea caddies. One of these is displayed in the living room near an 1868 book about married life.

Vicki said she treasures the book but added with a smile that she isn’t sure how much of the advice it contains would be popular today.

In her study, just off the living room, a table holds a Byzantine belt buckle she found in Montenegro and a monogrammed silver clutch that Vicki’s grandfather gave to her grandmother. The clutch is a reminder not only of Vicki’s grandmother but of Birmingham’s past.

“It has a place inside for streetcar tokens,” Vicki said.

She found many of the items she

Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.

Metallic ornaments in a silver bowl make a simple yet striking holiday display. Beside the bowl is a copy of “Worthy of Remembrance: A History of Redmont” by Cathy Adams, the Perrys’ friend and neighbor.

loves at Robert Hill Antiques, including a wooden panel showing St. Peter holding the Biblical keys to the kingdom.

The shop also helped solve a problem in the family room, she said. The room was constructed with a slanted wall behind the limestone fireplace, making it impossible to hang a picture there. The solution was to mount cabinet doors above the fireplace to create visual interest.

“Jane Hodges, who’s an interior designer, found the doors at Robert Hill Antiques,” she said. “They’re from an Italian church.”

In front of the wooden doors, which resemble organ pipes, is an assortment of starched Nativity figures made by two of Vicki’s aunts and her cousin.

“They made them years ago from starched sheets and old lace and spray-painted them gold,” Vicki said.

“One of them is decorated with my aunt Jane’s Red Cross pin.”

Vicki surrounds the figures with magnolia leaves during the holidays.

Not all of the eye-catching decorative elements in the Perrys’ home are traditional. By the front door is a primitive guardian statue. Vicki thinks figures like these were used by ancient African tribes for protection, prosperity and fertility.

A late 19th-century heavy metal piece shaped like a doughnut has a fascinating story.

“It’s actually African currency,” Vicki said. “It would be worn like an anklet.”

Visitors to the Perrys’ home will see a display of family photos in one hall. Among the pictures is one of Vicki and her cousin unveiling a portrait of their grandfather, Hill Ferguson, at the University of

Alabama in May 1956.

Hanging nearby is a framed Christmas card created by Vicki’s father in 1924.

“He’s supposed to have written the poem, but I suspect his parents helped him,” she said, laughing.

Vicki’s father saved and framed the hospital bills from his daughter’s birth in Decatur. The charges were modest by today’s standards.

“At $69.90, I guess I was a bargain,” Vicki said with a smile.

In the master bedroom, soft silvery-blue silk bedding lends a touch of elegance. Above the bed’s fabriccovered headboard are arched architectural fragments with mirror insets, also found at Robert Hill Antiques. A French cabinet keeps the TV out of sight when it’s not in use.

Vicki chose to use restful neutral colors throughout her house.

“You don’t get tired of them,” she said.

Vicki praised designer Jane Hodges for her contributions to the house’s interiors.

“Jane just ‘got me,’” she said.

Floral designer Carole Sullivan will help decorate the house for the holidays, Vicki said.

“We’ll have one tree in the family room,” she said. “And we’ll have one on the patio in the backyard. We’ll wrap it in burlap and decorate it with birdseed ornaments.”

Any visiting birds are likely to draw the attention of another family member—Lola, an appealing miniGoldendoodle.

The classic design of the house stands the test of time, too. It’s described as “Chateauesque”—one of the neighborhood’s distinctive architectural styles listed on an historical marker at Redmont’s Key Circle. ❖

Holiday Highlight

IPC House Tour Includes Redmont, Mountain Brook Homes The Independent Presbyterian Church’s Holiday House Tour is always a fun way to get Christmas decorating ideas, said Hilary Ross, public relations chairman for this year’s event.

“We strive to have homes with diverse architecture and elegance,” Ross said. “Those who go on the tour can see ideas that they might visualize and incorporate in their own homes.”

But the tour, now in its 64th year, has a purpose other than showcasing striking houses and providing holiday inspiration.

“The tour supports our church’s Children’s Fresh Air Farm Summer Learning Program,” Ross said.

The six-week summer program is for rising third, fourth and fifth-graders from disadvantaged backgrounds. Certified teachers give the campers academic instruction and supervise enrichment activities. The children are served breakfast, lunch and snacks and go on field trips, too.

The Children’s Fresh Air Farm has been a church mission since 1923, Ross said.

This year’s tour has four houses in Redmont Park and one in Mountain Brook’s Colonial Hills neighborhood.

“Three of the homeowners--the Beards, the Dixons and the Perrys--are IPC members,” Ross said. “This is the first time that we’ve had that many church members’ homes on the tour.”

Visitors to the home of Louise and John Beard at 2820 Stratford Road may be reminded of an old English abbey. The Beards worked with architect Jeff Dungan of Dungan Nequette to build a house with stunning views of Birmingham and to provide a setting for their collections.

The house’s exterior is limestone and brick. The foyer ,which faces Stratford Road, has a cathedral ceiling that takes design cues from London’s Westminster Abbey.

A pub with a wooden bar features the family crest. Close by is a wine room that doubles as a safe room. An exercise room houses memorabilia from Louise Beard’s many stage productions.

Maggie and Will Brooke are opening their home at 2500 Lanark Road for this year’s tour.

William Logan Martin built the Georgian Revival brick house in 1929 to overlook the southern part of Birmingham. Martin, a West Point graduate and Alabama Power Co. attorney, was the first of only three owners of the house.

Dr. Hugh Nabers and his wife, Grace, bought the house in 1959. Although they kept the original design, they added a bedroom and bathroom--and a trophy room to house the mounted exotic animal specimens Hugh Nabers hunted all over the world.

The Nabers family also focused on the gardens, planting boxwoods and holly trees outside of the French doors that the Martins had incorporated into the house’s design.

The house got another update before the Brookes moved in. The kitchen was extensively renovated, and the trophy room became a master suite.

Rita and James Dixon’s home at 11 Clarendon Road was completed in 2006. It was designed by architect Chip Gardner, and Melanie Pounds helped design the interiors.

The Dixons have furnished their house with French and English antiques and family heirlooms.

In the dining room’s custom bookcases are the couple’s collection of Herend Rothschild Bird china.

An antique frame collection with family photos by photographer Barbara Harbin is in the upstairs hall.

The house also features salvaged beams, an antique French limestone mantel and reclaimed wood floors.

Vicki and Marvin Perry’s house at 1621 Lanark Place in Redmont was built in 1925. Vicki Perry’s

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 35

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

V2V_BW ad.pdf

1

10/14/10

2820 Stratford Road.

1:01 PM

Presents

2500 Lanark Road.

2701 Argyle Road.

1621 Lanark Place. Not pictured 11 Clarendon Road. Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr. grandfather, Hill Ferguson, developed Redmont with Robert Jemison.

The house’s chateau-like architecture is set off by careful landscaping. It was renovated by a previous owner, and the Perrys added a garage.

Three fireplaces each have unique mantels. A family room with a soaring ceiling wasn’t part of the original house but fits beautifully into the design— and provides an inviting retreat.

Also in Redmont is another tour stop, the home of Staci and Ben Thompson at 2701 Argyle Road.

Built in 1922, the Thompsons’ Spanish Revival house shares it origins with Independent Presbyterian Church, the Birmingham Museum of Art and the County Club of Birmingham. All were designed by the architectural firm of Warren, Knight and Davis.

With its red tile roof and intricately-worked doors, the house is one of the few remaining examples of a one-level Mediterranean style.

Tour-goers will see baseball memorabilia that belonged to the father of Staci Thompson and collections of artwork and books. Staci is co-owner of Thompson House Antiques, Independent Presbyterian Church will be open for the tour, too. Founded in 1915, the church was designed by architect William Warren of Warren, Knight and Davis.

IPC members will deck the halls of the sanctuary and parlor. Christmas tea will be served in the church’s Great Hall on both days of the tour.

Tour chairmen are Jennifer Cope, Margaret Shuttlesworth and Kathy Thomson.

The tour is set for Dec. 14 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Dec. 15 from 1-5 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and go on sale Dec. 1. To buy tickets, call the church at 933-1830, visit www.ipcusa.org or stop by the church reception desk during business hours.

Tickets may also be purchased at any of the tour homes and at the church during tour hours.

—Donna Cornelius

mountain brook chamber of commerce

January 25, 2014 register at welcome to mountainBrook.com

36 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

holiday gifts

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

holiday gifts II over the mountain journal

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We’ve turned up so many great gifts that we had to use two issues to include them all. This second segment of our Gift Guide is just in time for that most wonderful time of the year: Black Friday. You can make that special shopping day merrier, brighter and less complicated with our suggestions for all kinds of gifts—and all from Over the Mountain area shops. e

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The Auburn or Alabama fan in your life will love displaying their special memories in these Arthur Court collegiate frames, $32.

Barton Clay 871-7060.

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From her funky fringe to her pudgy feet adorable Hannah Hedgehog, by Melissa and Doug, is covered with lovable charm to share with that extra special someone on Santa’s list! $20. Fancy Goods Variety, 978-1451.

Vintage belsnickels will add a touch of old-world Christmas to your holiday décor and will conjure up memories of Christmases past.

Available in different sizes and colors, starting at $14.

Attic Antiques, 991-6887.

h Deco earrings in emerald cut blue topaz and rhodiumed sterling silver by Dallas jewelry designer Elizabeth Showers are the perfect gift for that person who appreciates exquisite one-of-a-kind designs. $595.

John-William Jeweller, 870-4367.

A Greek bust will adorn your holiday home in classic style. Displayed on an entry table with fresh flowers and small curiosities, this will make a home uniquely yours. $225.

The Nest, 870-1264.

Karen Adams calendars are where savoire faire plays host to sophisticated whimsy, $60.

Christine’s + Bagatelle, 871-8297.

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Your house will be ready for holiday guests with new kitchen flour sack towels. Available in several holiday designs, $9 each. Great for hostess and teacher gifts. The Cook Store, 879-5277.

The quintessential divers’ watch and the benchmark in its genre, since it was introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner with a diamond and sapphire dial is a great gift for the active person on your list!

Levy’s Fine Jewelry, 251-3381.

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There will be more than sugar plumbs dancing through their head with this decadent Christmas cake from Savage’s.

Santa would love to find a piece cut just for him by the fireplace. Cakes start at $29.95.

Savage’s Bakery & Deli, 871-4901.

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Two books with a local flavor are Steve Smallman’s “Santa is Coming to Alabama” and “Santa Is Coming to Birmingham,” with St. Nick soaring over Vulcan and other familiar places. Both are great gifts for families. Snoozy’s Kids and Smith’s Variety have both books. Homewood Toy and Hobby has the Alabama version. Learning Express has the Birmingham version. $9.99.

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Squigz from Fat Brain Toys comes with differentlyshaped rubber pieces with suction cups. You can build all kinds of things or hook them onto other objects, $24.99.

Homewood Toy & Hobby.

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Yankee Belle bracelets, handmade by local artist Kathryn Hern, will help her look and feel special this holiday season. Mix, match and stack these bracelets or make a statement with just one, $22 - $30.

Chickadee, 969-3138.

Add elegance to your home this holiday season with an exclusive Waterford Grecian clock. It’s a gift that stands the test of time, $75.

Bromberg’s, 871-3276, Mountain Brook, 969-1776, The Summit.

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Water Dancing Speakers hook up to iPads, phones or computers. The speakers have multicolored LED lights, and water shoots up to the beat of the music. At Snoozy’s, Smith’s and Homewood Toy & Hobby. $49.99.

A favorite with collectors around the world, this 12-inch pot from Nicaragua is a striking handmade piece. Lavishly decorated it will add elegance to your home for years to come. $185.

Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry and Collectibles, 874-1044.

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“A Life of Excellence” by well-known local author Richard Simmons is an insightful book about how to live more effectively and wisely in the most important areas of life. A thoughtful gift for the holiday season, $17.95.

“A Life of Excellence”

by Richard Simmons, 789-3471.

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Help keep Santa’s helpers organized this holiday season with this deco duck change dish. They’ll think of you every time they use it! Great for keys, too. $40.

Gallery No. 9, 874-9235

This spectacular Boehm 17-piece Christian Era Collection Nativity will be a cherished part of your Christmas tradition for generations to come! $1,650.

Fifth Avenue Antiques, 320-0500.

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Whether entertaining or spending a quiet evening home by the fire, a Trapp Holiday Candle will tickle your senses. This candle reminds you of holiday baking with its vibrant scents of cinnamon sticks, spiced raisins and gingerbread, $24.95.

The Blue Willow, 968-0909.

hoiliday gifts

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

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Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 37

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She will love you for these 18-carat diamond, baroque freshwater pearl earrings. They are the accessories that never go out of style. A.M.W., Inc., 870-3588.

These moss purses, hats and shoes are delightful and make great hostess gifts for holiday parties! $7.99 - $24.99 ,unplanted.

Collier’s Nursery, 822-3133.

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Authentic Auburn Oak! This 5x7 is perfect for the Auburn fan on your list. $25, Hanging Around Hoover, 9877879.

Share what inspires you this season with vintage, costume and fine crosses and rosary beads, $42 and up.

Hanna Antiques, 323-6036.

If that someone special on your list values the very highest standards, traditional craftsmanship and timeless appeal, they will love the Montblanc pen, starting at $415.

Barton Clay, 871-7060.

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She’ll make a bold statement while ringing in the holidays in these leather wrap bracelets with assorted stones by Mariposa, $198 - $265.

Betsy Prince, 871-1965.

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There was a bronze age for a reason and this plaque of Saint Jean, Paris, France, circa 1890, in an 11 1/2-inch diameter stands the test of time. This beauty stands alone or would look elegant in a grouping. $595.

Christopher Glenn Inc., 870-1236.

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Ceri Hoover bags are designed at Ceri’s studio in Nashville and made in the USA. These bags are a wonderful staple to your everyday look. Eespecially eye-catching is this classic cross body cheetah print bag, $185.

Amy Head Studio, 879-3418.

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Gourmet chocolates make the perfect teacher, neighbor or hostess gifts. And they are great stocking stuffers, too! $12.50.

Antiquities, 870-1030.

Keep your loved ones toasty and warm this holiday season with textured throws available in several patterns and colors. They’re not only warm but are perfect for brightening up any room. The houndstooth patterned throw is perfect for the Bama fan on Santa’s list. $35 - $50.

Stock & Trade Design Company, 783-1350.

A distinctive art piece, this rustic cross by Sofia makes a great addition to any home. It’s hand-made in Texas out of distressed wood with metal flowers. On a bookcase or wall it will remind you of the meaning of the season. Available in different colors.

Small, $25 and large, $60.

Wrapsody, 989-7277.

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SALE

Monday, December 2nd - Saturday, December 7th g

She’ll be thinking warm thoughts in the Ugg Scuffette slipper. This is a thong slipper in shearling with a tiny bow. Available in champagne shearling or white with a blue bow, $80.

The Lingerie Shop, 871-8994.

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This fashion forward bracelet is made with African turquoise and genuine leather. Made in the USA. Rebel Designs Bracelet, $159.

Jewels by Rose, 979-5611.

Christmas Sewing Machine

Create a warm feeling in your holiday home with beautiful nature-inspired decorations. This set of three oyster shell trees made by a local artist can be enjoyed during the holidays or all year! $595. Interiors at Pepper Place, 323-2817.

To:

Martha

38 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

holiday gifts

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

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Feather her nest with ceramic art pieces by Alabama native Caroline Reehl, featuring gorgeous vases, tabletop crosses and ring dishes.

They are truly works of art! Prices range from $90 - $300.

Mulberry Heights Antiques, 879-1300.

Christmas tea towels with a hometown theme add a festive touch to prepare your kitchen for the holiday season.

Available in “Christmas is Always Merry in Homewood”, “Christmas is Always Merry in Vestavia Hills” and “Christmas is always Merry in Mountain Brook,” $20.

A Little Something, 970-2077.

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Your holiday is sure to be jolly with a hand painted holiday gourd. Each gourd is hand painted with unique holiday personality, $7.50 and up.

Prime Time Treasures, 870-5555.

Get scarves for all the women on your list. There are so many styles and colors to choose from to accessorize any outfit! $22.

The Pink Tulip, 870-7258, Homewood, 637-5390, Cahaba Village.

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What a delightful gift or hostess gift for someone you love. For $11, you can choose a great little pot to showcase the lemon or Mediterranean cypress. Pots come in a wide variety.

Shown here in a birch pot, $8. Leaf & Petal, 871-3832, Mountain Brook, 967-3232, The Summit, 877-3030, Botanical Gardens.

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Keep his feet warm, cozy and fashionable in these leather pull-on work boots.

They’re a great gift for the man on the go. $214.99.

Red Wing Shoes, 655-9288, 444-0360.

Local artist Laurel Browning captures the spirit of the season with this 5x5 painted wood block nativity scene. It will be enjoyed for many holidays to come. $22. Interiors by Kathy Harris, 970-4161.

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For the cook on your list, you can’t beat the Super-Fast Thermapen, by ThermoWorks. A professional tool (originally designed for commercial kitchens, labs and manufacturing plants) that has become the top consumer cooking thermometer for home use, $99.95.

Alabama Gaslight & Grill, 870-4060

This Michael Kors rose gold watch with a camel colored leather strap is a gift of timeless beauty to complete any ensemble, $225. Private Gallery, 969-1559.

There’s no better way to please the chef on your list than with “The Gathering of Friends Cookbook, Volumes 1 - 6, A Year of Holidays at Home,” $29.95.

The Briarcliff Shop, 870-8110.

f For the outdoorsman on your list, this turkey painting by local artist Kevn Webster is sure to please!

Arceneaux Gallery, 802-5800.

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When the stress of the holidays begins to take its toll, it’s the dammit doll to the rescue! Great for taking out frustrations or sharing a laugh. Makes a great stocking stuffer for $12.

Rosenberger’s, 870-0971.

For a gift of timeless beauty, this antique watch fob necklace by Beverly Ruff is the perfect gift.

Beverly Ruff, 871-7872.

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Fairytale dreams do come true at My Enchanted Forest featuring unique girls clothing, parties and a gift boutique.

Custom birthday shirt $40, with ivory pettiskirt, $28 and heirloom lace jacket, $64.

My Enchanted Forest, 802-5844.

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Stationery makes a wonderful gift. We carry a large selection, including the lovely embossed note cards from Crane and Co., starting at $37.95.

Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, 871-0092.

The tennis player on Santa’s list will love finding new tennis shoes under the tree! Men’s Asics Resolution 5, $130; Nike Court Ballistic 43, $130; women’s Adidas Barricade, $125; and Nike Vapor 9 tour, $130.

Player’s Choice Tennis, 985-4989.

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What do you give someone who has everything?

A gift in their honor or memory to someone who has

NOTHING.

$39 feeds 20 hungry people • $97.50 feeds 50 hungry people $195 feeds 100 hungry people • $585 feeds 300 hungry people

(205) 323-5878 • PO Box 10472 • Birmingham, AL 35202

www.jimmiehalemission.com

Costs are average and include preparing meals. If gifts exceed expenses, extra funds will be used throughout the year.

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Give the gift of a closet makeover for that special person in your life. You can add extra storage space while adding value to your home. This makes a perfect holiday gift because it is something that will last a lifetime. NeedCo ~ The Cabinet Company, 870-2066.

She’ll be tickled pink with luxurious satin and soft knit loungewear

by PJ Harlow.

They’re great for a relaxing evening at home or at the spa. Four available pieces, $68.99 - $82.99.

Monograms Plus, 822-3353.

g Holidays bring cold winter weather and she’ll be cozy and warm during the fall and winter months with Chatties leg warmers!

One size fits all, available in black, brown, grey, purple and magenta, $14.99.

Flips Flops & What Nots, 967-7429.

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This precious, plush nativity set with 11 pieces and a manger that folds up to become a carrying case, will be your toddler’s favorite toy this holiday season. Little ones will learn the true meaning of the season and having fun playing with and setting up their very own nativity set. $45.

Once Upon A Time, Crestline, 870-7772, Homewood, 870-9776.

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Holiday Open House Fri., Dec. 6th & Sat., 7th

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These gold, asymmetrical nina nguyen pieces are designed with an earthy spirit, which make it the perfect gift for the hard to buy for woman who has everything!

Southeastern Jewelers, 980-9030.

When the weather outside is frightful this holiday season, boot socks by Ida-Claire are a must-have! Beautiful crocheted vintage trim boot socks for little girls and adults, hand-crafted by Alabamians, up to size 11, $26. a.k.a. Girl Stuff, 802-7735.

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Hanna

antiqueS

MaLL

Call us “Hanna Claus”

Santa has a sleigh full of surprises.

Our one-of -a kind collection of rugs, silver, jewelry, furniture, glassware, and more qualify us as an official Santa’s Helper. Rooms and rooms of antiques, curiosities and fun.

Be Unique, Give an Antique.

2424 7th Ave. So. Major credit cards accepted

Mon-Sat 10-5

323-6036

Dealer Spaces Available

•

PAJAMAS BABYDOLLS

( 2 0 5 ) - 8 7 1 - 8 9 9 4

LONG JOHNS SKIVVIES

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Who says diamonds are a girl’s only best friend? These Swarovski crystal earrings are beautiful and will put you at the top of her list! $120.

The White Room, 970-6767..

V I L L A G E

DRAWSTRINGSCOTTONS UNDERSHIRTSCOZY STOCKINGS ROBES CHEMISESGIFTS ANNIVERSARIES

JAMMIES S PA N X

h Add beautiful holiday color to your home or office with an Early Prestige Poinsettia. They also make great hostess gifts. 6 1/2-inch pot, $14.99.

Andy’s Nursery, 824-0233, Vestavia, 402-2639, Hoover.

B R O O K

PJsLOUNGEWEAR SLIPSSATINS&LACE BODY SUITS TEDDIES T R AV E L UNDERTHINGS

SILK

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Boxes, boxes, antique boxes and caddies! Give a gift of sentiment by filling a box full of your most loved items and mementos to share, or hide your treasures in them. Starting at $69.

Tricia’s Treasures, 871-9779.

M O U N T A I N

ACCESSORIES

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Classic monogram necklaces in acrylic add a festive touch of whimsy to any outfit.

Also available in gold plate, starting at $38.

Monkees of Mountain Brook, 783-1240.

THE LINGERIE SHOPPE

H O S I E RY

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WEDDINGS

NIGHTWEAR SHORTIES GOWNS UNDERPANTS FOOTIES SLEEPWEAR FLANNELS GIFTSBABIES

For Santa’s busy helper on your list the “Mighty Purse” is the perfect gift. She can charge her phone on the go and look stylish while doing it. The purse features a lightweight built-in battery that will recharge most smartphones.

Many colors available, all leather, $112.

A’mano, 871-9093.

The “Wild Abundance Cook Book” is a salute to the best of the sporting South and celebrates the unique culture of hunting clubs.

Avid outdoorsmen, conservationists and hunters embrace a brand of camaraderie steeped in tradition that inspires intense devotion to the land and wildlife, as well as the desire to share it all with family, friends and future generations. $45.

Table Matters, 879-0125.

CIRCLE IT, DON’T FORGET IT.

BRAS

Wherever the winds may blow, you’ll be good to go in our boldest women’s fleece pullovers of the season, Gondola Fleece, quarter-zip, $115.

Vineyard Vines, 800-892-4982.

A dream sports car from Tom Williams Porsche is the perfect gift for this seasons and seasons to come. The new Panamera models unite thrilling contradictions to create something unique and unmistakable: a Porsche – for every day.

Tom Williams Porsche, 397-2700.

PA N T I E S & B R A S CHEMISES

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REMINDERS ARE THINGS THAT CAUSE SOMEONE TO REMEMBER SOMETHING.

BRIDES

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UNDERWEAR S I L K I E S PJsFOUNDATIONWEAR SLIPPERS

She’ll love you for this Diamond Station necklace in 14-karat gold with diamonds evenly spaced around the chain. The necklace is available in yellow, white and rose gold. These are great worn alone or layered with other necklaces! Prices start at $999.

Shay’s Jewelers, 978-5880.

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Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 39

holiday gifts

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

40 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Mountain brook special section

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Shop the Villages of Mountain Brook This Holiday Season!

Mountain Brook Village Open House December 5

English Village

Open House December 4 Holiday Parade

December 8, 3pm Mountain Brook Village Presented by Swoop

Mountain brook special section

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Player’s Choice Tennis Player’s Choice Tennis is a full service tennis specialty shop. “Racquets, stringing, shoes, clothing and bags… if you need it for tennis, odds are we have it,” says Deborah Standifer, owner, above.

“2013 marks our 20th year in business!

December marks our third year at the new location in Mountain Brook. Thank You Birmingham!

“I love having my own business. Tennis is such a focal point in my household. My kids play and I play. We also have Highland Park Tennis Center where my husband, Jack, coaches. It’s great when your career and family passion can intertwine.

“We will be open early on Black Friday, 8 a.m., with great deals throughout the store.

I close early for the Iron Bowl on Saturday.

We offer gift cards, free gift wrap, holiday wish lists, extended and Sunday hours closer to Christmas. Cyber Monday?? Who needs it! Bring your best internet deal in Monday December 2 and we will match it. Our hours are

‘Racquets, stringing, shoes, clothing and bags… if you need it for tennis, odds are we have it’ Mon. - Fri. 10:00 - 6:00 and Sat. 10:00 - 4:00.

“Always support local business when you can. The internet doesn’t care about our great city but your local business owner’s do!”

Player’s Choice Tennis is located at 2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Suite 180, in Mountain Brook, 985-4989.

Open 8:00 am Friday, November 29th Specials Throughout the Store

Player's

Choice

Tennis

2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Suite 180 Across from Whole Foods on Hwy 280

985-4989 Mon-Sat 10-6 • Sun 10-4

Nike • Adidas • Prince • Wilson • Head • Babolat • Maui Jim • K Swiss • Volkl • Bolle • Life is Good • Jerdog • Tail • Lija • New Balance • feetures • Thorlos • Life is Tennis and Cinda B. Tennis Bags • Maxx Sunglasses and much more!

Smart Skin Med Spa “At Smart Skin Med Spa, we are taking your skin care to the next level by introducing to you Smart Skin’s new Home and Travel Device including our never-before-sold exclusive Smart Skin gel packed full of the highest amino acids, skin protectants, skin hydrators and collagens,”says Lacey Edwards, co-owner, pictured above.

“This device will help with fine lines, wrinkles, shrink pores and will even out skin tone, texture and promote over all skin health.

You can get these great benefits from your home skin care regiment by adding these five-minute treatments.

“If you are already a Smart Skin monthly skin care member, this device is perfect to enhance your monthly treatments at home or on the go. This device also makes a great gift

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 41

for college student to help them maintain clean, clear and radiant skin even during those busy times-- or keep it for yourself to promote antiaging and maintain your skin’s health. This lightweight and cordless hand held device with

‘It’s time to take skin care one step further with Smart Skin.’ our Smart Skin gel is fun and easy to use. It’s time to take skin care one step further with Smart Skin.

“We have special introductory pricing available for pre-orders. Spend $350 and receive a $300 gift certificate to use towards skin care services or products.

The gift certificates can be used for yourself or broken up to be given as multiple gifts.”

Smart Skin Med Spa is located at 32 Church Street in Crestline, 871-8707.

42 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Holiday in the hills

A Little Something* AAA Alabama* AC Financial Partners Alfano Computer Solutions* Alliance Publishing Group Annabelle’s/Vestavia Hills Apothecary* ARC Realty* Artists Incorporated* Best Nails* Birmingham School of Music* The Blue Willow* The Bridge* Bruster's Real Ice Cream* Cahaba Fitness* Cameras Brookwood* Chickadee* Collage Designer Consignment* Contri Bros. Gift Basket Crabtree Computer/Sunshine Internet Marketing* Cross Construction DrakeCarroll Interiors* Fancy Goods Variety* First Partners Bank* Focus MD, Birmingham Golden Living-Riverchase The Heavenly Donut Company* Hilton Garden Inn-Liberty Park* Houliang Massage* In the Zone Publications Interiors and Antiques Market* Jewels by Rose*

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

The Jimmie Hale Mission Kidz Closet* Klingler’s European Bakery & Café * La Catrina Mexican Cantina* Mary Kay Cosmetics-Susie Serio Mason Music-Cahaba Heights* Mia Moda* MiBella Wellness Center Milestones Behavior Consulting* Monograms Plus* The New York Butcher Shoppe* Newk's Eatery-Vestavia Hills* Old Oak Advisors Primrose School at Liberty Park* Promotional Creations* RealtySouth-Liz Phillips Guest Renasant Bank Mortgage Lending* Sarver Orthodontics* Seniors Helping Seniors Siham’s Grill and Sweets* St. Vincent’s Health System Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Co. State Farm Insurance-John Henley Agency* Subway-Liberty Park* Tucker Family Dentistry* Tutoring Club* TWO MEN AND A TRUCK* Vestavia Bowl* Vestavia Hills Parks & Recreation Foundation* Webster Electric* The Wine Cellar*

Stop by the Business Expo at the Tree Lighting Festival on December 3!

Visit www.vestaviahills.org for the most current list.

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 43

Holiday in the hills

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Celebrating the Season in Vestavia Hills

The City of Vestavia Hills and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce are presenting the 3rd Annual Holiday in the Hills Festival, with several events taking place in November and December celebrating the holiday season as a community and encouraging shoppers to support local businesses.

The chamber hosted two kickoff parties: one November 14 in the Dogwood Room of the Vestavia Hills Civic Center and the second on November 21 at the New Merkle House in Cahaba Heights. Families attending the parties were given tote bags filled with coupons and promotions from the participating merchants. Children enjoyed making ornaments and writing letters to Santa.

The chamber’s prize passport program will continue through December 6. The prize passport is a booklet that shoppers take to participating merchants during the Holiday in the Hills Festival to have them stamped. When shoppers get stamps from three different business districts on their passport, they turn it in to the chamber office for a chance to win an iPad, a Regions Bank green bicycle and other prizes at the drawing that will be held at the December 7 Breakfast with Santa.

Shoppers can look for door deco-

From left: Luke, Levi and Hunter Higginbotham rations at individual businesses to see if those merchants are participating in Holiday in the Hills.

Participating merchants include: A Little Something, AAA Alabama, AC Financial Partners, Alfano Computer Solutions, Alliance Publishing Group, Annabelle’s/Vestavia Hills Apothecary, ARC Realty, Artists Incorporated, Best Nails, Birmingham School of Music, The Blue Willow, The Bridge, Bruster's Real Ice Cream, Cahaba Fitness, Cameras Brookwood, Chickadee, Collage

To: Katie From: Over the Mountain Journal 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax Date: Nov2013

Designer Consignment, Contri Bros.

Gift Basket, Crabtree Computer/ Sunshine Internet Marketing, Cross Construction, DrakeCarroll Interiors, Fancy Goods Variety, First Partners Bank, Focus MD, Birmingham, Golden Living-Riverchase, The Heavenly Donut Company, Hilton Garden Inn-Liberty Park, Houliang Massage, In the Zone Publications, Interiors and Antiques Market, Jewels by Rose, The Jimmie Hale Mission, Kidz Closet, Klingler’s European Bakery & Café ,

From left: Allison Naylor, Lisa Christopher, Katie Woodruff, Karen Odle La Catrina Mexican Cantina, Mary Kay Cosmetics-Susie Serio, Mason Music-Cahaba Heights, Mia Moda, MiBella Wellness Center, Milestones Behavior Consulting, Monograms Plus, The New York Butcher Shoppe, Newk's Eatery-Vestavia Hills, Old Oak Advisors, Primrose School at Liberty Park, Promotional Creations, RealtySouth-Liz Phillips Guest, Renasant Bank Mortgage Lending, Sarver Orthodontics, Seniors Helping Seniors, Siham’s

Grill and Sweets, Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Co., State Farm Insurance-John Henley Agency, St. Vincent’s Health System, SubwayLiberty Park, Tucker Family Dentistry, Tutoring Club, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, Vestavia Bowl, Vestavia Hills Parks & Recreation Foundation, Webster Electric, and The Wine Cellar.

For more information, visit www. vestaviahills.org or call (205) 8235011.

Calendar of Events

This is your ad proof for the Aug. 8 OTMJ Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Vestavia Hills Christmas December 3 Parade & Celebration Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

Tree Lighting Festival

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

Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 6:00 pm If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. December 8 Enjoy live entertainment, business expo, attention. Liberty Park Sports Complex Thank youa for your prompt the lighting of the tree and a visit with Santa! to Alston Meadows, 2:00-4:00 pm Enjoy the city’s official parade followed by the Breakfast with Santa Liberty Park Christmas Celebration with chilDecember 7 dren’s activities, refreshments, live entertainVestavia Hills Civic Center, 7:30-10:00 am ment, pictures with Santa and more!

Enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa. $1 Suggested Donation

Visit www.vestaviahills.org for an extended list of events Presented by the City of Vestavia Hills & the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

44 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Holiday in the hills

Interiors & Antiques Market

with everyone.

“We plan a holiday open house for Dec. 8, and encourage everyone to visit the store from

Interiors & Antiques Market consists of a diverse group of dealers with great merchandise including fine antiques, trending new market finds, repurposed, unique and one of a kind items, all under one roof.

It was established in 2009 to fill a void in the marketplace, to create a place where the retail customer could find a blend of the old and the new, as well as a unique shopping experience. It’s a place where one could spend a few minutes or a few hours searching for that one must have item.

“Owning our own business has been a lot of fun,” say owners, Jack and Joann May, “After spending 30-plus years in the corporate world, Joann and I were looking for a business where we could benefit from our business experience.

Being in this type of business has allowed us to enjoy things we were passionate about such as decorating and antiques. It has been a wonderful experience, and one that we would like to share

Interiors & Antiques Market is a place where one could spend a few minutes or a few hours searching for that one must have item.

1-4 pm and enjoy light refreshments and meet some of wonderful dealers while browsing our outstanding inventory. Our dealers and staff decorate the store during the season with many must have holiday decorations, and you may find that one of a kind gift for someone special.”

Pictured above are Liz Bunton and Joy Palmer.

Interiors & Antiques Market is located at 1069 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, 8229922.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Father and Son Real Estate Team

Mike Wald is a real estate agent who specializes in helping families purchase and sell homes in Vestavia, Mountain Brook, Homewood, and Hoover. He consistently ranks as one of the top over the mountain Realtors.

“I’ve been helping over the mountain families with their real estate needs for about 20 years,” says Mike.

“What I love the most about this business is the strong relationships with the all the families I’ve had the opportunity to help. Now, I’m getting to help the kids of previous clients find their first homes. That’s pretty fun and it really makes you feel good to be trusted by generations of the same families. I hope someday I’ll get to help the grandkids, too!

“It’s great having your own business because you get to decide how you’re going to take care of your clients. Fortunately, my dad taught me when I was growing up that if you take care of your clients, you won’t have to worry about how successful you are. Of course, he was right.

We always put the interests of our clients before

our own. And it’s a wonderful feeling when we get calls from people who want us to help them, and they say one of their friends recommended us,” says Mike.

“Another advantage is that you get to set your own hours. When my kids were growing up, I had the flexibility to be able to coach them in youth sports and attend their events at school.”

“About four years ago one of our sons, Hayden, joined me in the business. He graduated from Birmingham-Southern in business.

He is doing an awesome job with our buyers.

I’m so proud to be on the same team with him.”

“I believe the over the mountain real estate market has turned the corner. Homes that are priced appropriately are selling. With rates predicted to increase next year, this fall and even the holiday season, could very well be the perfect time to put a house on the market. It’s certainly a great time to be buying! There are also some excellent opportunities to buy new construction in Vestavia and Mountain Brook. In fact, it’s possible to buy a new home and move in before Thanksgiving!”

You can reach Mike Wald at 541-0940 and Hayden Wald at 919-5535.

Join us on December 8th from 1-4 pm for our

Annual Holiday Open House

It’s not too late to find the perfect house in time for the holidays.

There’s a good selection of beautiful Over-the-Mountain homes and rates are still very attractive!

Visit FindThePerfectHouse.com or call Mike or Hayden to start your search today!

Mike Wald 541-0940 Hayden Wald 919-5535

Silverstein-Lovell

Mr. and Mrs. David Letaw Silverstein of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Caroline Silverstein, to Dr. William Adrian Lovell III, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Adrian Lovell Jr. of Pensacola, Fla. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Rev. and Mrs. Martin Robert Tilson of Birmingham and Mrs. Estelle Seigel Silverstein and the late Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Letaw

Mann-Woodroof

Mr. and Mrs. Teddy Lee Mann of Homewood announcement the engagement of their daughter, Lacey Michelle, to Thomas Schram Woodroof III, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Schram Woodroof Jr. of Athens.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. Perry Lee Mann of Opelika,

Gable-Guida

Jamie Rae Gable and Antonio Dario Guida were married Oct. 19

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 45

Weddings & Engagements

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Silverstein of Birmingham.

Miss Silverstein is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a 2007 graduate of Auburn University, where she received her bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in human development and family studies. She was presented at the Ball of Roses and is a member of the Ballet Guild of Birmingham. Miss Silverstein is employed with Bayer Properties.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. William Adrian Lovell Sr. and the late Mrs. Catherine Wright Lovell of Sylacauga and Mr. and Mrs. William Burl Goodwin of Pine Mountain, Ga. Dr. Lovell is a graduate of Pace High School, a 2006 summa cum laude graduate of the University of Florida College of Business and a 2010 cum laude graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Dr. Lovell completed his residency in pediatric dentistry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2012. He now practices in the Birmingham area.

The wedding is planned for Jan. 18 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.

Mr. and Mrs. Otha Gerald Hamm of Alexandria, Mr. Eugene Garfield Yates of Birmingham and the late Mrs. Joan McNeely Yates, also of Birmingham.

Miss Mann is a 2006 graduate of Homewood High School and a 2010 graduate of Auburn University with a degree in Spanish-international trade.

She is employed at Sterne Agee & Leach, Inc. in Birmingham.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. Thomas Schram Woodroof of Athens, the late Mrs. Mary Ann Woodroof, also of Athens, Mrs. Adalene Hay Bledsoe of Huntsville and the late Mr. John Carroll Hay Jr., also of Huntsville.

Mr. Woodroof is a 2006 graduate of Athens High School and a 2010 magna cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in mechanical engineering. He is employed at Robins & Morton in Birmingham.

The wedding is plannedd for Feb. 8 at All Saints’ Episcopal Church. at Chiesa San Luca Evangelista in Praiano, Italy. Father Don Luigi Amendola officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Philip Gable of Vestavia Hills and Ms. Joanie Gable of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. Cristofaro Guida of Positano, Italy and Ms. Rosa Manna of Praiano.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride was attended by Cassie Gable Shears, sister of the bride, of Wilsonville as maid of honor.

Tessa Shears, niece of the bride, of Wilsonville and Alba Cuccurullo and Aurora Galani of Praiano, cousins of the groom, served as flower girls.

Danilo Guida, brother of the groom, of Positano was the best man.

After a honeymoon trip to Costa Rica, the couple live in Positano.

Lucas-Armitage

Marguerite Lee Lucas and Thomas

Henry Armitage were married June 1 at Church of the Incarnation in Highlands, N.C. The Very Rev. Frank Limehouse and the Rev. Bruce Walker officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cary Gilbreth Beck of Birmingham and the late Mr. William Ray Lucas Jr. The groom is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Richard Jeffrey Armitage of Bainbridge Island, Wash.

Given in marriage by her brother, Kenan Holmes Lucas, the bride was attended by Alice Ray Lucas as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Sarah Brannon Ager, Rebecca Louise Armitage, Meghan Lile Beck, Hilah Marie Barbot, Carmen Thornton Carraway, Dawson Drinkard Cooper,

Ashley Wootton Cross, Lelan Marie Dunavant, Rachel Walton Knowlten, Catherine Cupp Lucas, Allie Franks Matthews, Caroline Janice Nettles, Emily Spangler Sinclair and Milner Owens Staub. Caroline Hood Caldwell, Julia Alan Lowder and Rose LaSalle Lowder were flower girls.

Adam Robert Slonaker was the best man. Groomsmen were Jack William Armitage, Cary Gilbreth Beck Jr., Patrick Murray Fiander, Matthew Kurt Haines, Alex Whitney Jarrell, Jeffry Forrest Lamb, Benjamin J. Lee, Liam Patrick Maher and Jared Hugh Parkin. Austin Gray Lowder was the ring bearer.

The couple live in New Orleans.

Let us help spread the word of your good news.

Send your wedding, engagement and anniversary announcements to: editorial@otmj.com or visit www.otmj.com for forms and info.

Simpson-Monaghan

Melissa Leigh Simpson and Adam Douglas Monaghan were married July 13 at WaterColor Inn and Resort in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. The Rev. Mark Yoder officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. L. Clark Simpson of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Douglas James Monaghan of Mystic, Conn.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride was attended by Jill Koretzky Wollner as matron of honor and Lauryn Frances Simpson and Kathryn Ann Simpson, sisters of the bride, as maids of honor. Bridesmaids were Kristin Laura Seiffert, Lenora Jane Estes, Celeste Evans Griffin, Rachel Berry Halvorson, Leigh Kimbrough Louis, Sara Baker Woods, Melissa Ann Booher, Pamela Elting McKenney and Blair Davis Parkes.

Allison Lucas Leaver and Elizabeth Olmsted Griffith were readers. Vocalist was Anne Garland Neal Mahler.

The groom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were Daniel Clark Simpson, brother of the bride; Joshua Seals; Charles Nelsford Detwiler; Ronald Anthony Vetrino; Nicholas Scott Mucha; Zachary Blanie Baker and Vincent Paul Straub.

Joey Bonczkowski III and Chapin Howe Kreuter were ushers.

After a honeymoon trip to Brazil, the couple live in Santa Monica, Calif.

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46 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Sweet Home Alabama

SCHOOLS

German Exchange Student Is Glad She Came to America

By Taylor Burgess Journal intern

A

lthough Amelie Kraaz had never stayed in America before she traveled from her home in Germany to live in the Over the Mountain area, the Goldfarbs of Mountain Brook weren’t complete strangers to the 15-year-old.

The Goldfarb family and Kraaz aren’t related to each other but have close ties. The Goldfarbs have hosted the German exchange student in their home for the fall semester.

“I’ve known her father, Armin, since 1986,” Preston Goldfarb, head men’s soccer coach at Birmingham-Southern College, said. “I saw her grow up in Germany from pictures he sent over.

Our families are very close.”

Even though her family and the Goldfarbs are close, Kraaz’s decision to study in America was unusual. Many German students study overseas, but most go to countries other than the U.S., like England.

Kraaz, however, is confident she made the right choice.

“The ones who go to England can only talk about the food, but not anything else,” she said.

“I like it much more here.”

Kraaz, who is in the 10th grade and attending Mountain Brook High School during her stay, said she values the cultural experiences she

has had in Alabama, including her first football game.

“There aren’t really as many sports in Germany as there are here,” Kraaz said.

Cultural immersion is, in fact, the primary reason for her time abroad, as German students do not receive academic credit for classes taken at foreign high schools, she said.

“In Germany, our schedule is different—we always have two days for homework and classes only on certain days like college,” she said. “I can’t get credit, so it’s more of a cultural experience.”

Although she has focused on seeing as much of Alabama as she could, Kraaz has still applied herself to her studies, Preston Goldfarb said.

“She does well in school, even though it won’t count,” he said.

After completing her classes, Kraaz will return to Germany on Dec. 22.

Kraaz said she hopes to come back to the U.S. after she graduates from high school.

“In Germany, college is free. If I went to the University of Munich, it would be free,” she said. “But Munich is a very expensive city, so it would be cheaper for me to live in America, go to the University of Alabama and pay tuition.”

The Goldfarbs said they will be sad to see Kraaz go, even if it will only be for a few years.

“We would love to have her back,” Marie Goldfarb, Preston’s wife, said. “She’s melded

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

From left: Marie Goldfarb, Satch the dog, Amelie Kraaz, Aly Goldfarb and Preston Goldfarb in their Mountain Brook home.

Journal photo by Keysha Drexel

into the family. She feels like one of us.”

Aly Goldfarb, Preston and Marie’s daughter, said she agrees.

“It’s been different, having a sister,” she said.

“I got to relive high school a little bit.”

Aly, a former professional athlete in Israel, will soon begin physician’s assistant school.

Kraaz said she hopes to return to the U.S. before starting college.

“I’ll come back and spend summers, and I won’t go on vacation,” she said. “I want to stay longer, but I’d have to repeat high school if I did.”

Marie Goldfarb said even though she knows her family will see Kraaz again, she’s not ready for the exchange student to go.

“We want her to stay,” she said.

When Kraaz does return to Germany in

December, she said she is uncertain about adjusting.

“I can’t imagine going back now,” she said.

“I’m hesitant about it.”

Kraaz said she is so accustomed to living in Alabama and attending an American high school that she’s not sure moving back into the German school system will be easy.

The Goldfarbs said the host family experience has been a positive one for them and that they’re open to hosting international students again in the future.

“This is the first time we’ve been a host family, but I’m sure Amelie’s sister will want to come,” Preston Goldfarb said.

The Goldfarbs said Kraaz and her family have an open invitation to visit them in Mountain Brook. ❖

School Notes

Brookwood Forest Elementary School fifth-graders help out at the school’s blood drive. From left: Catherine Taylor, Megan Lee, Ethan Seller and Grant Tincher. Photo special to the Journal

Brookwood Forest Helps Red Cross Blood Drive Teachers and parents at Brookwood Forest Elementary School in Mountain Brook recently rolled up their sleeves for a good cause.

The school hosted a blood drive for the Red Cross on campus on Sept. 30.

More than 55 friends, parents and teachers donated blood to help replenish the supplies at the Red Cross.

The event was spearheaded by Julie Hudson, a fifth-grade teacher at the school.

ACS Honors Mountain Brook, Vestavia Although their schools’ football teams battled it out on the field on Oct. 25, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills High School students teamed up to help the American Cancer Society.

Both schools were recognized at the Oct. 25 football game for their nationallyacclaimed contributions to the fight against cancer through their successful Relay for Life fundraising events held

earlier this year.

The Mountain Brook and Vestavia Relay for Life events were both named a Top Five Youth Event in the country this year, raising a collective $468,000 for the American Cancer Society.

More than 150 high schools nationwide held Relay for Life events this past spring. The Mountain Brook event is ranked second nationally, and the Vestavia event is ranked fourth.

Mountain Brook also received recognition as the top per capita youth event in the country, and Vestavia was fourth.

ACS Mid-South Division leaders Kelly Doss and Samantha Taylor attended the game and presented the student leaders, advisors and principals of each school with awards for their service and dedication to help in the fight against cancer.

Gwin Students Raise Money with Race Students at Gwin Elementary School in Hoover laced up their sneakers and hit the track to help raise money for their

school.

The students raised more than $43,000 at the annual Eagle Scream Fun Run in September.

The event was organized and executed by parent volunteers.

Gwin students collected pledges to run up to 40 laps around the school’s track. Previous Eagle Scream Fun Runs have helped purchase new playground equipment and provided money to teachers for their classrooms.

For their efforts to help their school, students were rewarded for their participation with prizes, including a ride in the Hoover Police Department’s Porsche and a special magic show.

The school also recently celebrated Red Ribbon Week. Students renewed their pledges to live drug-free lifestyles during the Oct. 28-Nov. 1 event.

Second-grader Mae Elliott completes a lap at the Eagle Scream Fun Run at Gwin Elementary School in Hoover.

Photo special to the Journal

Homewood High School students Genny Pittman, left, and Aaron Stansell have been named state finalists in the Wendy’s Heisman contest.

Photo special to the Journal

Wendy’s Honors Homewood Students Two students from Homewood High School are being recognized by the Wendy’s Heisman contest.

Genny Pittman was named a state finalist in the contest, and Aaron Stansell was the school winner.

Since 1994, the Wendy’s High School Heisman Program has honored more than 395,000 of the nation’s most esteemed high school seniors in partnership with the Heisman Memorial Trophy Committee.

The leadership award honorees are well-rounded young men and women who excel in learning, performing and leading in the classroom, on the field and in the community, according to program officials.

Vestavia Senior Earns Samsung Scholarship A senior at Vestavia Hills High School has been selected to receive a $20,000 college scholarship through the

Samsung-American Legion program.

Austin Owen won the scholarship based on his class standing, academic and civic achievements and financial need. Nine students earned the scholarship from a finalist group of nearly 100.

Eligibility for scholarships requires students to be direct descendants of U.S. wartime veterans.

The Samsung Group endowed a scholarship fund of $5 million to be administered by the American Legion to show appreciation to U.S. veterans.

ASFA Opens New Series The Alabama School of Fine Arts will open its “Friday Night Lights” series Dec. 13.

The performance series, a first for the school, will begin with the Holiday Music Concert in the Dorothy Jemison Day Theater.

Series subscribers will be treated to a pre-performance cocktail reception at Chris Dupont’s Mix Restaurant.

For details on the concert or the series, visit http://www.asfa.k12.al.us.

Children’s Author Visits OTM Schools

Award-winning children’s author Christopher Paul Curtis visited with students from two schools during his recent trip to Alabama, and both of those schools were in the Over the Mountain area.

Curtis, author of the Newberry Award-winning “The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963,” talked to students at Hilltop Montessori School on Oct. 7 and visited Bumpus Middle School in Hoover on Oct. 8.

Curtis’ book, which also won the Coretta Scott King Award and the Golden Kite Award, portrays an African-American family traveling from Michigan to Birmingham in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement.

The book has been adapted into a film which was shown on the Hallmark Channel in September. The film stars Grammy-nominated actress Anika Noni Rose, three-time Tony Award nominee David Alan Grier, Skai Jackson, LaTanya Richardson, Wood Harris, Bryce Jenkins and Harrison Knight.

Curtis talked to the Hilltop Montessori students at a special event held at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and sponsored by Alabama Public Television. He visited Bumpus Middle to talk to students during a school-wide assembly program.

Curtis engaged the Hilltop Montessori students in a lively discussion of his book and posed with several students for photos after his presentation.

To prepare for Curtis’ visit to Bumpus Middle, which was arranged by school administrators and librarians, the Hoover students read the book as part of Bumpus Middle’s “One School, One Book” summer reading initiative.

At Bumpus, Curtis answered students’ questions about the book, signed copies and posed for photos after his presentation. ❖

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 47

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Children’s author Christopher Paul Curtis, center, recently visited Bumpus Middle School in Hoover. He’s pictured here with Bumpus Middle School Principal Tamala Maddox, left, and Hoover Board of Education member Derrick Murphy. Photo special to the Journal

Prince of Peace Students Learn by Gardening Second and fourth-graders at Prince of Peace Catholic School in Hoover are digging in the dirt, examining worms and eating radishes in the classroom–all with the approval of their teacher.

These junior scientists are part of a brand-new, interactive science curriculum utilizing the school’s greenhouse and raised planting beds.

The hands-on program was developed and is taught by school parent Mary Guillory, who has a keen interest in teaching kids just how food gets from farm to table.

“I was surprised to realize that many kids today have no understanding as to where their food comes from,” Guillory said.

The innovative program adds a new dimension to the students’ science and nutrition curriculum, school officials said.

“The greenhouse is an extension of our unique elementary science lab program,” Principal Connie Angstadt said. “We are so fortunate to have committed, involved parents like Mary who can enhance our curriculum offerings in such creative ways when many schools are cutting programs.”

Guillory recently brought local farmer Joyce Darby to the school to speak to her classes about farming. Darby farms

17 acres in Montevallo, practically by herself, and strives to create a selfsustaining, organic environment.

“The chickens eat the bugs and lay eggs, the llamas and alpacas ‘mow’ the fields, my goats give milk,” Darby said.

“Everything has a job to do.”

The students are studying not only plant growth but the factors that affect it. They conduct experiments with irrigation, fertilization and pest management, debate the pros and cons of worms and dissect plants.

“Seeing an image of a flower and its parts in a book cannot compare to actually seeing and touching it,” Guillory said.

The elementary school farmers are growing radishes, pumpkins, squash, strawberries, basil and flowers in the raised beds. A mango and a papaya tree have also been planted.

The radish crop was successful, and the students were intrigued when they saw the red vegetable peeking out of the soil.

Planting, growing and eating the plants has been a fun first for the students, and they are looking forward to what the Prince of Peace School gardens and greenhouse will yield next, school officials said. ❖ Prince of Peace Catholic School second-graders Fin Unnoppet, left, and Abby Guillory talk to guest speaker Joyce Darby in the school’s garden area.

Photo special to the Journal

Curtis talks with Hilltop Montessori School students during a presentation at the Alabama School of Fine Arts. Photo special to the Journal

Homewood’s Winches Wins Leader Award

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

A Homewood city school administrator has been named the Alabama Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development’s 2013 Outstanding Curriculum Leader.

Betty Winches, who has served as Homewood’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction since 1998, received the recognition for her outstanding contributions to curriculum development.

“Dr. Winches is the ‘keeper of the vision’ for all curricular and instructional initiatives in the school district,” said Homewood School Superintendent Bill Cleveland.

“She has proven time and again to be an excellent teacher, leader and administrator for the Homewood city schools. I feel there is no better professional educator to be named Outstanding Curriculum Leader than Dr. Winches.”

Homewood school board member Patti Atkinson said Winches was deserving of the recognition.

Dr. Betty Winches.

Photo special to the Journal

“Dr. Winches’ understanding of curriculum and its appropriate application to the classroom has tremendously benefited Homewood schools,” she said. “It is not simply that she has a large number of years in the business but that she is constantly upgrading her knowledge and passing on that knowledge to other administrators and educators.”

Winches started her career in Homewood as a seventh-grade language arts teacher in 1975. She has also worked in the Birmingham and Huntsville city school systems. ❖

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48 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

Schools

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

OLS Celebrates Reading Buddies Week with Books

From left: Connie Sellers and Suzanne Noble present artwork to Matt Driskill with Ella Kate Dewees and Larry Gibson at Pizitz Middle School in Vestavia Hills. Photo special to the Journal

Pizitz Salutes Veterans Students in Vestavia Hills recently honored military veterans for their service to the country.

Pizitz Middle School honored more than 100 veterans at its Living History Day Nov. 7.

The program was led by Brent Coleman, choir director, and featured the Boy Scout Color Guard, music by choir and band members and a program and invitation that featured the artwork of Pizitz Middle students.

The featured speaker for the event was Lt. Commander Matt Driskell, a former Pizitz Middle student.

Larry Gibson, the school’s art teacher, designed a banner that was created

by Connie Sellers, an intern from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Ella Kate Dewees created the invitation and Living History Day program cover art.

The banner was presented to Driskill to thank him for speaking at the school during the event.

Character Counts at Highlands School Highlands School is teaching students not just academic subjects but that “Character Counts.”

character, each grade did a character cheer on the quad for the entire school and students dedicated class time to writing and creating artwork about each of the pillars of good character.

The week ended with fourth-graders performing a play called “The Drum,” which included several Indian fables and lessons about generosity, kindness, caring and good citizenship.

Spain Park Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month Spain Park High School celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15-Oct. 15.

Replicas of Pablo Picasso’s work were on display in the school library as part of a student-led exhibit on the artist’s contribution to Hispanic culture and art in general.

“This is all just a neat way to bring a lot of attention to a great month which a lot of people may not even realize exists,” SPHS Spanish teacher Chrissy Roe said. “It’s a chance to show what Hispanics have contributed to us in this area and the United States as well.”

Spain Park’s art department devised Picasso-inspired chalk drawings.

Students in advanced-level Spanish courses were in charge of creating audio tours which were recorded in

Students at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School in Homewood recently celebrated the release of the 50th book in the popular children’s series “Magic Tree House” during the school’s annual Reading Buddies Week.

The students celebrated the new book and their reading buddies Oct. 14-18.

To kick off the event, fourth-grade students watched a live webcast hosted

by Mary Pope Osborne, the author of the “Magic Tree House” books. Before the webcast, students were invited to submit their questions for the author, who answered them during the event.

During the week, older students read to younger students in smallgroup settings and helped the younger students with their reading.

“This was a great experience for everyone involved,” said Andrea Dexter, a fourth-grade teacher at OLS. “For the older students, it encouraged their leadership capabilities and gave them more confidence to be a role model for the younger students. As for the little ones, they have found some good mentors in our class and hopefully gained a continued interest and love for reading.”

The character-building program is woven into every aspect of school curriculum to fulfill the school’s mission of “preparing the student to be a responsible and productive member of the community.”

Trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship are emphasized daily at Highlands, school officials said.

The entire school community recently participated in Character Counts Week Oct. 21-25.

During that week, kindergarteners led an assembly dedicated to good

English and Spanish.

Smartphone/tablet QR (quickresponse) codes were created and placed near exhibits so visitors could learn more about art pieces on display as they toured.

The month-long celebration culminated with a Spanish luncheon at the school.

“I want students to appreciate what’s behind the language,” Roe said. “We just really want them to go deeper than the language aspect and appreciate the culture.”

Photo special to the Journal

Altamont Students Make Honor Societies

Homewood High Wins State Health Award Homewood High School will soon be honored for its commitment to health and wellness.

The school won this year’s School Wellness Award from the Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. The award was presented Nov. 19 at the ASAHPERD Fall Conference Awards Luncheon.

The award is given each year to schools and districts that demonstrate innovative and meaningful programs and initiatives that support health and wellness.

Along with a certificate, the school will receive $500 for wellness programs.

Simmons Band Performs Costume Concert

Highlands School fourth-graders perform in a production of “The Drum” as part of Character Counts Week. From left: Grey Battle, Whitney Byington, Andrew Glassford and Harrison Coleman. Photo special to the Journal

Several students at the Altamont School were recently inducted into honor societies.

The Simmons Middle School Band got in the spirit of the spooky season on Oct. 28 with its fourth annual Costume Concert and Trunk or Treat event.

The band commissioned an original musical composition from composer Tyler Grant, a senior at Hoover High School, to premiere at the annual event.

The piece told the musical story of a ghostly buccaneer.

Grant’s musical compositions have

The Altamont School recently inducted 20 new members into the Basil M. Parks Chapter of the National Honor Society and 35 new members into the Elizabeth Brooks Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society.

The National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society are the nation’s premier organizations established to recognize outstanding high school and middle level students. To qualify for induction, candidates must demonstrate qualities of leadership, character and service and also have a cumulative grade average of at least a 90.

The 2013 National Honor Society members inducted were Ann Arnold, William Cook, Kathryn Cotton, Alex Damman, Kemp Featheringill, Fletcher Hare, Lauryn Hill, Olivia Jones, Keegan Kariuki, Keenah Mays, Patrick O’Neal, Will Pannell, Elise Parrish, Graham Rutledge, Nathan Sorscher and Kate Young.

The 2013 National Junior Honor Society members inducted were Afra Ashraf, John Barnard, Jordan Booth, Sarah Brandler, Joe’l Brock, Carolyn Cleary, Buddy Gardner, Schuler Goepfert, Arjun Guru, Madeline Hand, Elizabeth Harvey, Emma Hazelhoff, Arjun Lakhanpal, Mary Frances Lembke, Robert Luke, Zoie McNeely, Aarthi Namasivayam, Madeline Ness, Emily Nomberg, James Patterson, Kiana Perkins, Mallory Pitts, Lucy Pless, Neha Ramesh, Imani Richardson, Audrey Roell, Amanda Roussel, Hunter Scott, Ashley Sharff, Ethan Smith, Lincoln Sorscher, Josh Teel, Miles Underwood, Nicole Vaughan and Zoe Zahariadis. ❖ been published and performed by bands all over the country since he was 14 years old.

Simmons band students submitted titles as part of the project, and Grant chose the ones he thought best represented the piece he was composing for the concert. Kyara Lewis and Scotty Phillips came up with the winning title, “Ghosts of the Lost Ship.”

Leading up to the Oct. 28 concert, Grant visited Simmons Middle to rehearse the piece with the seventh and eighth-grade bands.

The students followed the concert’s tradition by performing in Halloween costumes.

The Simmons Middle School Band performed at the school’s fourth annual Trunk or Treat event on Oct. 28.

Photo special to the Journal

OTM Student, Teacher Honored at UN Day Event A student from Indian Springs School in North Shelby and a teacher from Mountain Brook City Schools were among those honored recently at the Birmingham United Nations Day Banquet.

Evelyn Baxley received the 2013 Ilse W. Diasio Youth Leadership Award on Oct. 17 for her role as president of the International Club at Indian Springs School Evelyn Baxley and for her role on the UN-USA Birmingham Board.

The award Baxley received was named after one of the leaders of the Greater Birmingham Chapter.

Julia Peterson, a teacher at Crestline Elementary School in Mountain Brook, was also honored at the awards ceremony.

Peterson received the Distinguished Educator Award for her dedication to her role as sponsor of the Junior United Nations Assembly team.

Schools

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 49

JOIN THE H.Y.P.E! ACE HALF YEAR ALL-STAR TEAMS

Eighth-graders at Mountain Brook Junior High recently held a kickball tournament to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Photo special to the Journal

Mountain Brook Students Kick Off MS Event A group of 98 eighth-graders from Mountain Brook Junior High School recently participated in a kickball tournament to help the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Twelve teams of boys and girls faced off in the tournament at Mountain Brook High School to ‘It was amazing to raise awareness and see these kids come money for the AlabamaMississippi Chapter together on their of the National MS own and decide to Society. make a difference The students also in this community.’ hit the streets in their neighborhoods to raise money by holding bake sales, lemonade stands, raffles and letter writing campaigns.

Their efforts raised more than $11,000 to help those living with MS.

“It was amazing to see these kids come together on their own and decide to make a difference in this community.

The teams formed almost overnight as text messages and emails went out amongst the kids to spread the word to form a team and to encourage creative fundraising for MS,” said Ashley Powell, who was diagnosed with MS in 2011.

“I was overwhelmed when I saw all these great kids take a lot of time and responsibility on their own to start this new event.”

The idea for the tournament fundraiser began over the summer during a baseball dugout conversation among some of the eighth-grade players from Mountain Brook Junior High, said Hamp Sisson, who organized the event. The players learned that two of their teammates had mothers with MS. “A lot of kids our age probably have moms that suffer from it, too. So we decided then that we wanted to do something to help,” Sisson said. ❖

School Notes From left: Vestavia Hills City Schools Superintendent Jamie Blair, Vestavia Hills Elementary West Principal Kim Hauser and Sen. J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner.

Photo special to the Journal

Waggoner Visits VHEW Faculty and students at Vestavia Hills Elementary West School welcomed State Sen. J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner and Superintendent Dr. Jamie Blair for Alabama’s Learning with Legislators Day on Oct. 22.

Waggoner, Alabama’s senate majority leader, toured the school with Kim Hauser, principal at VHEW. In the school’s computer lab, Waggoner saw one of the state’s two Promethean ActivTables in action. The ActivTablet, which was purchased by the school’s PTO, resembles a large touch-screen tablet and offers student activities aligned with national and state standards in education.

Every student in the school has access to the device during weekly sessions in the computer lab.

With the help of grants received through Waggoner’s support, VHEW recently purchased a second ActivTablet for the school’s exceptional education classes.

Waggoner visited classrooms to see how technology is being used in every area of instruction as well as how the

Common Core Standards are being implemented.

“The goal of Learning with Legislators Day is to give our elected officials a clear picture of what is going on in Alabama’s classrooms so that they can make informed decisions about education during the

Bluff Park Goes Pink Students, teachers and staff members at Bluff Park Elementary School in Hoover showed their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October by wearing pink to school. They gathered in the school gym and formed the shape of a Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon.

upcoming legislative session,” State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice said. “An excellent way to help them learn is a school visit.”

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Hoover Students Run for Cure in Annual 3K Event An estimated 1,500 Hoover High To: Eva and Bruce, School students and faculty members From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., signed up to raise money for cancer 205-824-1246, fax research through the school’s fourth Date: Oct. annual 3K Race for the Cure on Oct. 29.

Proceeds from the race will benefit the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

This is your aD prOOF from the OvEr ThE MOunTain JOurnal for the The event featured fun activities for Oct. 17, 2013 issue. please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your all participants, including live music. ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Before the race, students held a pep rally. please make sure all information is correct, Last year’s 3K Race for the Cure at including address and phone number!

Hoover High School drew more than 1,000 participants and raised $5,000 please initial and fax back within 24 hours. for the Susan G. Komen Race for the if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, Cure. ❖ your ad will run as is.

50 • Thursday, November 28, 2013

sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Mountain Brook Wins Metro Volleyball Title The Mountain Brook eighthgrade volleyball team won this season’s Metro tournament and championship, posting a 28-1 record.

Will Freeman, left, a senior at Spain Park High School, has been named a national finalist in the 2013 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award. Spain Park High School senior Madeline Held, right, was named a state winner in the Wendy’s High School Heisman Award program. Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Spain Park Student Named Heisman Finalist

The director of the operations for Wendy’s said it is rare to have two state winners in the restaurant chain’s High School Heisman Award from the same school.

David Westerfield made his remarks on Nov. 20 at Spain Park High School in Hoover during an assembly recognizing seniors Will Freeman and Madeline Held as the state’s winners for the 2013 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.

The assembly also gave Westerfield the chance to break the news that Freeman had been chosen as one of 12 National Finalists for the 2013 award.

A crew from ESPN was on hand at the Jaguar competition gym to capture the eruption of the students gathered there after Westerfield made his announcement.

The footage the ESPN crew shot on Nov. 20 will be used in the Wendy’s High School Heisman Special which will air on ESPN2 on Dec. 15.

Freeman also gets a gold medal and other prizes for being named a national finalist. Spain Park High School will also receive $2,000.

Additionally, Freeman will be on hand for the collegiate Heisman Trophy presentation in New York City.

Freeman and Held are among 48,000 students who applied for the 2013 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.

Freeman is a six-time state swimming champion and was a Birmingham Swim League teammate of Held’s before she retired from competitive swimming.

rebels,

From back cover

opportunities we had early,” Anderson said. “We got some big plays defensively in the clutch, and that made a big difference.”

Vestavia enjoyed a decisive advantage in field position early in the game and exploited that edge to earn three scores.

Bob Jones drove to midfield on its first possession. Facing a fourth and six situation, the Patriots attempted a fake punt, which the alert Rebel defense stopped in its tracks.

“They have been great at faking punts all season,” Anderson said. “We were ready to make the play.”

Vestavia quickly took advantage.

Senior running back Jordan Johnson blasted through the Patriot defense for runs of 23 and 20 yards.

Johnson’s one-yard touchdown run and Wesley Hatchett’s conversion gave the visitors a 7-0 lead with 6:17

remaining in the opening period.

The Rebels struck again early in the second quarter, when Christian Palmer reached the end zone from a yard away. The conversion attempt failed when the ball hit an upright, and Vestavia led 13-0.

Bob Jones responded quickly, returning the ensuing kickoff almost to the 50-yard line. Patriot quarterback Jimmy Frye scored on a fourth-andgoal at the Rebel one-yard line to cut

‘Yes sir, we’ve been thinking about the idea of playing Hoover again all year.’

Rebel fullback Connor Estes

the margin to 13-6 with 6:58 remaining to play in the first half. A two-point conversion attempt missed the mark.

Frye paid a price for the score. He sprained his ankle and did not return

Photos special to the Journal

The Mountain Brook eighth-grade volleyball team won this season’s Metro tournament and championship, posting a 28-1 record.

Spartan Sydney Carlson was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament. Her teammates Libby Grace Gann and Layne Stone also made the All-Tournament Team.

Carlson and Stone were named All-Metro Players of the Year.

Other Mountain Brook team members are Hannah Bartels, KayKay Benck, Shalini Chatterji, Mary Tynes Flake, Lucy Harrison, Mary Louise Howland, Anna Hufham, Lacey Jeffcoat, Ellie Martin, Mimi Meadows, Katherine Grace McMinn, Mary Frances Robertson and Addy Parker Spees.

The Spartans also finished first in this year’s Magic City Classic Tournament and Homewood Round Robin.

Oak Mountain Middle School won second place in the Metro tournament and was runner-up in Metro play with a 27-5 record.

The Eagles won the Oak Mountain Invitational and Oak Mountain Screamin’ Eagle Tournament and finished second in the Simmons Over the Mountain Tournament.

Berry Middle School was third in the Metro tournament.

The Jaguars also finished second in the Bumpus tournament, Oak Mountain Invitational and Oak Mountain Screamin’ Eagle Tournament.

Other Metro All-Tournament Team members from Over the Mountain schools were Marlee Johnson, Berry; Ayanna Robinson, Bumpus; Lia Roberson, Homewood; Holly McDaniel, Liberty Park; Caelis Wendel and Cameron Rueschenberg, Oak Mountain; Maggie Mince, Pizitz; and Jamie Gregg, Simmons.

to the game.

Vestavia countered when Hatchett booted a 30-yard field goal, and the Rebels led 16-6 at the half.

With backup quarterback Tyler Whalen at the controls, Bob Jones moved to Vestavia’s six-yard line in the third quarter. Matthew Trulock’s 23-yard field goal narrowed the margin to 16-9.

The Rebels responded with a thrust to the Patriots’ 10-yard line. From there, Hatchett’s 27-yard field goal moved the score to 19-9 as the quarter expired.

Bob Jones made a gallant run in the fourth quarter but fell short. A Patriot move to Vestavia’s three-yard line ended with Trulock’s 20-yard field goal bringing the score to within a touchdown at 19-12.

The hosts’ final gasp came when Whalen’s incomplete pass on fourthand-15 gave Vestavia possession with less than two minutes to play.

Johnson finished with 130 yards on 24 carries, as the Rebels stuck mainly

Oak Mountain Middle School won second place in the Metro tournament and was runner-up in Metro play with a 27-5 record.

Berry Middle School was third in the Metro tournament.

with its vaunted ground game throughout the evening. Quarterback Landon Crowder attempted only four passes.

“Our running game worked,” Johnson said. “It was mainly the work of our guys up front. With the wet conditions, we had to take what they would give us.”

Vestavia’s defensive unit held Bob Jones to only 225 yards.

The Rebels improved their record to 11-2 for the season. Observers who wrote Vestavia off following its 10-7 loss to Mountain Brook in October look rather foolish now.

Although the win was unspectacular, it was plenty good enough to set the stage for a second confrontation between the Rebels and the undefeated and top-ranked Bucs, who survived a 22-21 nail-biter against Florence to hold up their end of the match.

Hoover edged Vestavia 17-7 in the first meeting on Sept. 27, in a game where a Buc reception for a touchdown is still disputed by Rebel partisans. Don’t be surprised if Hoover-

Vestavia II is even more intense than the original.

And while nobody in the Rebel camp was willing to talk about the possibility of a rematch with the longtime rival, certainly the prospect of facing Hoover again was in the back of the minds of Vestavia players and coaches alike.

“Yes sir, we’ve been thinking about the idea of playing Hoover again all year,” Rebel fullback Connor Estes admitted. “It’s exciting to be in the semifinals anyway, but playing Hoover again makes it even more special.”

Estes said his team came away with some valuable lessons from the first Hoover game.

“Our defense played great in that game, and I think maybe we picked up some things that will help us on offense,” he said. “It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

It sure is. Vestavia and Hoover followed by Alabama and Auburn. It can’t get much better than that.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

sports

hoover,

Clockwise from far left: Junior quarterback Jack Hutcheson directed a do-or-die drive in the fourth quarter–which included two successful conversions on fourth down–to send the Bucs to the next round of the post-season; sophomore cornerback P.J. Hall had a big night for the Bucs including an interception late; Hoover’s Hagan Scott tries to outrun a Florence defender; Buc defensive lineman Dylan Ackerson, gets past a Florence Florence blocker to Falcon quarterback Kendrick Doss.

From back cover

how the win was achieved. Junior quarterback Jack Hutcheson directed a do-or-die drive in the fourth quarter–which included two successful conversions on fourth down–to send the Bucs to the next round of the post-season.

“To God be the glory,” Niblett said after the intense battle ended. “We were blessed to move on to the next round. This was a great environment to play in tonight.”

The brilliant game-winning drive was climaxed by Hutcheson’s nine-yard touchdown strike to Alex Elam with 6:08 remaining in the game. A two-point conversion attempt failed.

Perhaps the night’s biggest defensive play came when sophomore cornerback P.J. Hall intercepted a Florence pass at the Buccaneer 38-yard line with 5:41 remaining in the game. Hoover’s defense wouldn’t give up a first down until the game’s final play.

The night started as if it would be a routine Hoover victory.

Bradrick Shaw’s four-yard touchdown run gave the Bucs a 6-0 lead with 6:44 remaining in the first period. The extra point attempt missed the mark.

Undaunted, the Falcons put together a nineplay drive to take the lead. A three-yard touchdown run by Kendrick Doss tied the score. Edson Casarrubias’s extra point kick gave Florence a 7-6 lead.

Hoover regained the lead in the second quarter as Hunter Schmith’s 29-yard field goal put the visitors in front 9-7 at halftime.

Florence wasn’t intimidated, as the Falcons took back the lead early in the third quarter. Doss scored his second touchdown of the night, this time from eight yards away, and Florence led 14-9 with 8:51 remaining to play in the period.

Hutcheson and company fired back immediately. The quarterback completed a 52-yard scoring bomb to Justin Johnson. Schmith’s conversion kick gave Hoover a 16-14 lead with 7:15 in the period.

The third quarter fireworks weren’t finished just yet. With less than a minute left in the period, Doss passed 89 yards to William Barnett for a touchdown as Florence went ahead again, 21-16.

Now the stage was set for Hoover’s gamewinning, season-saving drive for the ages.

Shaw rushed for 106 yards in 34 carries.

Spartans, From back cover

sented the ethic of Spartan basketball, McMillan said.

“What made the honor so great was that it was given to the entire team,” he said. “The kid who averaged playing two minutes a game and didn’t score much earned it as much as the guys who averaged 30 minutes and scored in double digits. That’s what Mountain Brook basketball should always be about.”

McMillan’s philosophy–go ahead and call it “The Process”--is so ingrained in the team’s psyche that the coach often defers to older Spartan players in making sure newcomers understand what is expected of them.

A classic example came in Mountain Brook’s season opener last week, a 60-49 loss to Ramsay.

“We had some younger guys on the team who didn’t fully understand our concept yet,” McMillan said. “They saw the game as a chance to show what they could do as individuals. Later they came back and apologized to our older players for not getting the concept right.”

The Spartans regained their old form in a 72-18 blowout over Northridge in the following game.

“Northridge has a young team, and we were

Thursday, November 28, 2013 • 51

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Hutcheson completed seven of 12 passes for 101 yards. He completed all four of his attempts in the fourth quarter.

Hoover stands 13-0 with the repeat battle with Vestavia straight ahead. The Bucs won the first game 17-7 on Sept. 27, where a controversial Hoover reception for a touchdown was a key play. But both teams have grown by leaps and bounds in the weeks that have followed. The conable to score a lot of points on them,” McMillan said. “But by far the most important thing was that we looked like a team again.”

And while the emphasis is constantly on the team and not individuals, Mountain Brook comes to the floor with a strong nucleus of returning talent. Patrick Keim, Ben Shearer and Tawarren Grant are in the backcourt along with Alex Peters, a 6-7 center, and forward Jack Kline.

Keim, Shearer and Peters are seniors.

“We’ve also got some good kids coming up from the junior varsity,” McMillan said. “We’ve got a nice blend of veterans and youth from a talent standpoint, as long as we play as a team.”

McMillan is also impressed with the leadership from his upperclassmen, with Keim receiving special praise.

“Patrick is the best leader I have ever seen in athletics,” the coach said. “He’s been a great leader since the ninth grade. Our players listen to him because they know he always has the best interest of the team in his heart. Regardless of whatever statistics he might have, Patrick will always be a Most Valuable Player because of the intangibles.”

The Spartans aren’t backing away from any challenges in 2013-14, as their schedule is rugged. They play in star-studded tournaments at the University of Alabama and Samford University and in the prestigious Big Orange

fidence gained by Hutcheson and the offensive unit by pulling off the late drive against Florence can’t be measured.

“We found a way to win on the road,” Niblett said. “That means a lot.”

Actually, the victory over the Falcons was Hoover’s third tough game in a season filled with one-sided blowouts. In addition to the difficult win over Vestavia, the Bucs also struggled

at times in their season opener, a 24-10 win over Colquitt County of Georgia, which is led by former Hoover coach Rush Propst.

But all of that is in the past. The future is Hoover versus Vestavia, with the winner playing for the Class 6A state championship.

And for now, that’s all that matters.

Spartan head coach Bucky McMillan calls senior Patrick Keim, left, “the best leader I have ever seen in athletics.” Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry

Classic at Hoover. Mountain Brook will again compete in Class 6A’s Area 11 with traditional powers Shades Valley, Vestavia Hills and Woodlawn.

“We believe that tough schedules get you ready for the post-season,” McMillan said. “Our schedule is attractive for the fans, and the players enjoy the challenges.”

Another intangible in the Spartans’ favor may be their relationship with a Mountain Brook community that fell in love with its team during last season’s stirring championship run.

“Our athletic program has always had great support from the way the community identified with us,” McMillan said. “What made last season so special was the way we identified with the community. The embrace we received from the people of Mountain Brook was so important to what we accomplished.

Nobody knows if this Spartan team will be able to recapture the glories of last season, but McMillan knows his own definition of success.

“If we are unselfish, work hard and play with a fearless attitude, we’ll feel good about whatever is on the scoreboard,” he said.

And McMillan means it.

Really, he does.

Sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Point Taken

Spain Park’s Will Freeman named a national finalist for Wendy’s High School Heisman, Page 50

Hoover’s Alex Elam celebrates with his teammates after scoring on a game-winning nine-yard touchdown strike from quarterback Jack Hutcheson with 6:08 remaining in the game. More photos at otmj.com.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Lee Davis

Late Drive Brings Victory To Bucs, Sets Rebel Battle

Shoot, Win, Repeat

By Lee Davis

Spartans Attempt to Defend Miracle Championship

Journal Sports Writer

At first glance, the score of Hoover’s close-shave verdict over Florence might make a casual observer think that the Bucs are ripe for the taking as they enter the semifinal round of the state Class 6A playoffs.

But appearances are often deceiving.

Hoover’s 22-21 win against the Falcons at Braley Stadium was the Bucs’ 28th consecutive victory, but it was also the first onepoint win of the Josh Niblett era. And with a rematch with Vestavia just around the corner, the Bucs’ legion of devoted followers might have reason for concern.

The redeeming quality for Hoover was

B

See hoover, page 51

Semi-tough Rebels Slip Past Patriots, Face Hoover in Semifinals

By Lee Davis

Journal Sports Writer

Alabama’s epic battle with Auburn at Jordan-Hare Stadium won’t be the state’s only football mega-clash on Thanksgiving weekend.

The Vestavia Hills Rebels will meet the Hoover Bucs in a Class 6A semifinal rematch that promises to

be only a slightly smaller version of the Tide and the Tigers.

Coach Buddy Anderson’s team earned its way to a Friday night date at the Hoover Met with a hardfought 19-12 win over Bob Jones at a cold and wet Madison City Schools Stadium.

“Our defense played well and our offense took advantage of the See rebels, page 50

Rivals Rematch The Vestavia Hills Rebels will meet the Hoover Bucs in a Class 6A semifinal rematch that promises to be only a slightly smaller version of the Tide and the Tigers.

Vestavia Hills’ Jordan Johnson and Hoover’s Brooks Bennett in the teams’ first meeting in October.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

ucky McMillan doesn’t care how many games his Mountain Brook basketball team wins this year.

Seriously, he doesn’t.

McMillan coached the Spartans to a 30-6 record and their first-ever Class 6A championship last winter, so you might think the expectation level is high for 2013-2014. The level is high but has nothing to do with wins and losses.

Really, it doesn’t.

In fact, McMillan sounds much like a well-known football coach in Alabama when discussing his team’s prospects for the new season.

“Our goal is not to win the state championship or any particular number of games,” he said last week. “We want to be the most unselfish team and the hardest-working team. If we do that, we are fearless, because we know we have done everything we can do as a team to be successful.

That was our only goal last year when we won the championship. It is our only goal this year, regardless of how many we win.”

The Over the Mountain Journal’s decision to name the entire Mountain Brook basketball team as its 2012-13 Boy Athlete of the Year best repreSee Spartans, page 51

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