Vestavia Hills Magazine, December 2018/January 2019

FRIENDSHIPS AT NEW MERKEL • BEHIND COLLINS MCMURRAY’S CROWN • CHAD MARTIN’S WEAVE DESIGNS

THE SAME OLD DIP

FORCE of Nature

CLIMBING MOUNTAINS WITH ANNA CURRY GUALANO

DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com Volume Two| Issue Six $4.95

THE FACES BEHIND DIPLOMAT DELI

It’s a great place to live.

Whatever your species may be.

The renowned biologist E.O. Wilson has called it “an aquatic treasure house.” The World Wildlife Fund and Nature Conservancy included it as one of just eight “Hotspots of Diversity” in the entire world.

But, to us, it’s an unparalleled place to reconnect with nature by canoeing, kayaking, hiking, birding, botanizing, or merely floating in its waters.

In the clean water we return to the river, and through our efforts with Adopt-A-Stream, It’s the Cahaba—the longest free-flowing river SouthWest Water Company is doing our part to in Alabama, with more fish species per kilometer ensure the Cahaba is there for future generations than any other river in North America, including to enjoy—whatever their species may be. Join 18 species that exist nowhere else. with us by visiting bit.ly/AdoptCahaba.

To learn more, visit CleanerCahaba.info

Twenty-seven wooded, beautiful homesites have been released in The Willows at Willow Point, situated on the northern shoreline of Pitchford Hollow. Choose from a portfolio of thoughtfully-designed house plans from Russell Lands approved architects, designers and builders or bring your dream plans with you. To find out more, call 256.215.7011.

Visit RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 1

Please Join the BBVA Compass Bank local team as we host our monthly socials, drinks and Hors d’oeuvres provided.

Join your fellow business owners, expand your network, and grow your business!

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Mountain Brook

Chamber of commerce

2 December 2018/January 2019

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FEATURES

54

UNDER THE CROWN Behind Collins McMurray’s Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen title lies academic rigor, community service and a love for the fine arts.

62

A FORCE OF NATURE She might have broken 100 bones by age 10, but there was no stopping Anna Curry Gualano from climbing mountains.

70

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season? Look no further than the shops right around you.

4 December 2018/January 2019

PHOTO BY LAUREN USTAD

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

43

33

PHOTO BY EMMA SIMMONS

arts & culture

17 Creating Places: Chad Martin Weaves Together Design Process

schools & sports

25 Getting to Know All About You: Friendships at New Merkel Center

food

& drink

33 The Same Old Dip: Diplomat Deli Holding Strong Since 1982 42 Five Questions For: The Faces Behind Wintzell’s Oyster House

home

& style

in every issue 6 Contributors 7 From the Editor 8 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 9 #VestaviaHillsMag 10 The Question 11 The Guide 76 Out & About 86 Marketplace 88 My Vestavia Hills

43 The Golden Touch: The Mallempati Home’s Panoramic Views 53 At Home: Comfort Tones

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 5

contributors EDITORIAL

Graham Brooks Stephen Dawkins Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner

CONTRIBUTORS

Karen Askins Mallory Barry Jessica Clement Mary Fehr Melanie Peeples Emma Simmons Adrianne Smith Elizabeth Sturgeon Lauren Ustad

DESIGN

Mallory Barry, Photographer

Mallory Barry is a Vestavia Hills High School student who has avidly enjoyed photography since she first got her camera in 2012. She is currently taking a digital imaging class in school and also enjoys being a part of her high school’s track and field team, going on adventures with friends, and traveling with family.

Mary Fehr, Photographer

Mary is a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Birmingham.

A Vestavia native and VHHS graduate, she studied art and art history at University of Montevallo. She likes to teach and plans on getting her MFA in order to do so. Mary also loves to travel and has a goal of photographing a wedding in every state! She enjoys reading non-fiction, going to concerts and spending time with her family.

Connor Bucy Jamie Dawkins Kate Sullivan

MARKETING

Kristy Brown Kari George Rachel Henderson Daniel Holmes Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla Nick McKnight Lindsay Milligan Viridiana Romero Kerrie Thompson

ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Katie McDowell Stacey Meadows Tim Prince

Melanie Peeples, Writer

Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, Melanie Peeples covered the South for National Public Radio, writing about everything from the trial of the country’s first school shooter to the 85th anniversary of the MoonPie. She loves travelling to new places (and old places, too) and also coming home.

Elizabeth Sturgeon, Writer

Elizabeth Sturgeon studies English at Samford University and will graduate next spring. She hopes to pursue some kind of writing profession after graduation. A Birmingham native, she’s a vegetarian living in the South and enjoys staying close to home and learning more about Birmingham. When she has time away from writing papers, Elizabeth loves drawing and watercolor painting, and she’s attempting to watch all of the classic movies she has never seen.

Vestavia Hills Magazine is published bimonthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Vestavia Hills Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Vestavia Hills Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Vestavia Hills Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Vestavia Hills, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit VestaviaHillsMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $16.30 for one year by visiting VestaviaHillsMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@vestaviahillsmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

6 December 2018/January 2019

from the editor

I

ON THE COVER

Force of Nature

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of many mountains in life Anna Curry Gualano has taken on despite the odds.

Photo by Mary Fehr Design by Connor Bucy

It might look like we are principally in the business of paper, but really the heart of what we do to create this magazine is in conversations. And indeed much of this issue began over coffee or a conference table or lunch.

It was at least 45 minutes into a conversation with Mayor Ashley Curry that his daughter came up. He’d been updating me on what’s going on with the city and what might translate into good magazine stories. The more we talked, the more we got into compelling stories of people more than places or events—and then he mentioned Anna.

Most parents take great pride in their children and what they have accomplished, but it immediately became obvious that his pride should come in extra measure as he’d watched his daughter break hundreds of bones in her childhood—and then climb Mount Kilimanjaro. A few weeks later our writer Melanie Peeples sat down for coffee with Anna Curry Gualano herself to get the full and everso compelling story you’ll find in this issue.

Speaking of stories you don’t fully expect, I knew Collins McMurray had been named Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen, a story-worthy subject on its own, but it was over coffee with photographer Karen Askins that I learned that the competition that gave her that title had been her very first pageant. Now that’s extra story-worthy. Be sure to read her full story in this issue—and watch for where this VHHS student goes from here.

Whenever possible, I like to begin conversations in a space where you can learn about whoever you are writing about, and indeed the details of what surrounded me in Chad Martin’s office became a large part of the narrative about his design work. Likewise, I learned the backstory of the Mallempatis’ home renovations on their back patio—the setting that also became the backbone of that story. And of course I had to go watch the Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights students have lunch with the seniors at the New Merkel Center before I asked both parties questions about the relationships that had formed over those meals.

Perhaps the funniest conversation to spark the stories in this issue was writer Emma Simmons’ with the owners of Diplomat Deli. The only details I know are the ones that ended up in the story, but they all came with a dose of hilarious, or so Emma told me.

May your December crazy and January slow down be filled with the kinds of conversations that add layers of meaning to your life— and maybe even give us some story ideas too. Thanks for reading!

madoline.markham@vestaviahillsmagazine.com

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 7

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com Thank you for featuring our local jewelry artists for “The Fall Fashion Guide.” We have always loved this publication!

-Nicolina Koch, via Instagram

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Vestavia Hills Events Not to Miss This Month What’s going on when and where? Find our full roundup of Vestavia’s best events online each month. vestaviahillsmagazine.com/category/events/

facebook.com/vestaviahillsmagazine

8 December 2018/January 2019

@vestaviahillsmag

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Subscribe to our newsletter Get the latest on Vestavia events and happenings delivered to your inbox monthly. Sign up at VestaviaHillsMagazine.com.

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Tag us in your Vestavia Hills photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

@allisonwhiteherr Little Rebel Cheerleaders!

@vhhsrebelmarchingband Took home all ones (the best score possible!) at the Pinson Valley Band Competition.

@kellidanieltaylorphoto

We fell in love with these custom cookies that showed off the bride and groom’s reception venue @vestaviacountryclub. Baker: @reabakes Planner: @akbrides

@wildintu

so purdy. #sunrise #golfcourse #alabamaphotographer #teebox #lifeofadventure #optoutside #views

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 9

“ ” THE QUESTION

What’s your favorite holiday tradition in Vestavia Hills?

I will always remember the parade on 31! When I was little, it was so magical seeing Santa there! It’s a memory I will never forget!

-Shannon Peters Williams

The “Celebrate the Season” show at VHHS! Choirs sing holiday music. Beautiful art work is on display. The drum line does the COOLEST routine! The Rockettes perform a high-kick routine.

-Christi Bryant Haynes

Seeing the Boy Scout tree lot come to life; the city decorations on the light poles and City Hall; neighborhoods decorated with lights and more.

Christmas By Candlelight at Shades Mountain Baptist Church! Christmas music by orchestra and choirs. Amazing lighting and sound too!

The parade on 31 in the ‘80s and ‘90s with the REAL reindeer. A few reindeer that would try to eat the plants in the median and hold up the parade procession. I miss the parade.

Looking at all the Christmas lights! My kids especially love seeing Santa waving from the window on Hays Circle with two toy soldiers guarding the front door. It is an annual viewing tradition!

Going through Starbucks drive-thru, getting hot chocolates for the kids and riding around looking at lights.

The Christmas Eve candle light services at The Lutheran Church of Vestavia Hills and Pastor Emeritus Clifford Hellmers reciting from memory the Christmas Gospel.

-Steve Bendall

-Carrie Lewis Kreps

-Allison Evans Maners

10 December 2018/January 2019

-Suzanne Campbell Blackwood

-Stacy Oertel Mitchell

-Wendy Pickard

THE GUIDE

CELEBRATING THE SEASON DEC. 6 7 p.m.

Vestavia Hills High School Celebrate the season with performances by the high school’s band, choir, dance and theatre departments, and you’ll be sure to be singing “Fa la la la la, la la la la” all the way home.

Photo by Jackson Ross

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 11

THE GUIDE

WHAT TO DO IN VESTAVIA DEC. 5 Treehouse Poetry Reading Series Featuring Erin Elizabeth Smith & Katherine Bell 6-7:30 p.m.

DEC. 7 OLLI Presents: The Iran Nuclear Agreement Library in the Forest 1:30-2:45 p.m.

DEC. 7 First Friday Reception Artist Incorporated 4:30-8:30 p.m.

NOV. 30-DEC. 2

Magic City Nutcracker

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7 P.M., SATURDAY & SUNDAY 2 P.M. Virginia Samford Theatre Travel to the land of mice soldiers and a Sugar Plum Fairy in this holiday favorite—put together with a community cast plus Morgan McEwen, dancer with the Metropolitan Opera, and Simon Wexler, former dancer with American Ballet Theatre and principal with Texas Ballet Theater. Order your tickets at magiccitynutcracker.org..

DEC. 6

Legacy League Christmas Home Tour 10 A.M.–2 P.M. AND 4-8 P.M.

Tour homes in all their festive glory—plus festive hors d’oeuvres and a holiday gift market at the Samford president’s home. The tour features four other homes too including the houses of Ashley and Andy Prewitt and Tracy and Robert Stephens in Vestavia Hills. Proceeds benefit the Legacy League’s scholarships to Samford University for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances.

For tickets visit samford.edu/legacyleague/.

12 December 2018/January 2019

DEC. 10 Senior Citizen Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

DEC. 11 Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon Vestavia Country Club 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

DEC. 13, 17, 18 Exam Study Breaks Library in the Forest 3, 5 & 7 p.m.

DEC. 18 Santa Story Time Library in the Forest Dinner 6 p.m., Show 6:30 p.m.

DEC. 20 OLLI Presents: The 1960s Library in the Forest 1:30-2:45 p.m.

DEC. 21 First Day of Winter Break Vestavia Hills City Schools DEC. 21 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament For Teens Library in the Forest 4-5:30 p.m.

JAN. 7 Students Return from Winter Break Vestavia Hills City Schools

THE GUIDE JAN. 8 Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon Vestavia Country Club 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

JAN. 14 Senior Citizen Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

JAN. 21 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Vestavia Hills City Schools Closed JAN. 24 Friends of the Library: Vestavia Hills Fire Department Library in the Forest 10-11:30 a.m.

JAN. 25 Mario Kart 7 Tournament For Teens Library in the Forest 4-5:30 p.m.

DEC. 10

Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade and Celebration 2 P.M. Liberty Park Sports Complex to Alston Meadows

The tradition continues. Find a good spot along the route to watch the parade pass, and then stay for Liberty Park Christmas Celebration with children’s activities, refreshments, music, pictures with Santa and more.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 13

THE GUIDE COMMUNITY

Symphonic Celebration To mark the start of a new symphony season, Alabama Symphony’s Volunteer Council held a membership party at the home of Pete and Paula Verdu. Pictured are Vestavia Hills residents Chandler and Jane Smith and Betty Jo Gorman (front), and Debby Noll, Bettie Davenport, Jo Broadwater, Nadene Siniard and Bobbie Holland (back).

DEC. 8

Breakfast with Santa 7:30 A.M. Vestavia Hills Civic Center 1975 Merryvale Road

Come out for a pancake breakfast with a special guest from the North Pole. Syrup included for those on the nice list.

JAN. 1

Commitment Day 5K Fun Run 10 A.M. Lifetime Fitness

Start off the New Year right with this annual 5K starting at Lifetime Fitness. Registration fees include a T-shirt, race bib and brunch social after the run, and kids will earn their very own 5K medals. Registration is free for kids under 12 attending with a paid adult. To register or volunteer, commitmentday.com/alabama/ vestavia-hills/.

14 December 2018/January 2019

AROUND TOWN NOV. 30-DEC. 16 RMTC Holiday Spectacular Red Mountain Theatre Company DEC. 1-2 The Nutcracker Presented by the Birmingham Ballet Alabama Theatre DEC. 7 Alabama Symphony Home for the Holidays Samford University Wright Center DEC. 7-22 Holiday Movies Alabama Theatre DEC. 9 Trans-Siberian Orchestra BJCC Legacy Arena DEC. 10-11 Birmingham Boys Choir Christmas Concert Briarwood Presbyterian Church DEC. 13 Mannheim Steamroller BJCC Legacy Arena DEC. 14-16, 21-23 Alabama Ballet’s The Nutcracker Samford University Wright Center DEC. 14-23 Scrooge: The Musical Virginia Samford Theatre DEC. 18 A Very Electric Christmas Alys Stephens Center DEC. 21-23 The King & I BJCC Concert Hall DEC. 22-31 It’s a Wonderful Life Live!

Virginia Samford Theatre JAN. 11+12 The Beginning: Carlos Conducts Beethoven’s First Symphony

THE GUIDE Alabama Symphony Orchestra Alys Stephens Center JAN. 15 Swan Lake Presented by the State Ballet Theatre of Odessa Lyric Theatre 7:30 p.m.

JAN. 18-20 Evita BJCC Concert Hall JAN. 18+19 Carmina Burana & The Rites of Spring Alabama Symphony Orchestra Alys Stephens Center JAN. 24-FEB. 10 Million Dollar Quartet Virginia Samford Theatre JAN. 24-27 Birmingham Boat Show BJCC

SMALL BUSINESSES

Now Open for Business Here’s the latest on business, retail and other openings and moves. There’s a new pet resort near Patchwork Farms, The Pawms. You can now order up pizzas and beer of your choosing at the new Slice Pizza near Lifetime Fitness. Gary Anthony Salon has moved from Homewood to the former DL Salon space between Mia Moda Boutique and Steeds Jewelers in the Diplomat Deli shopping center. HotWorx, a 24-hour infrared sauna fitness studio, is set to open soon at 790 Montgomery Highway, Suite 124. El Zun Zun is now serving up Latin American fare adjacent to Leaf & Petal and Crestline Bagel in Cahaba Heights.

DEC. 22

Pure Fitness Reindeer Dash 8 A.M. 1425 Montgomery Highway, Suite 115

Work off all that party food at this annual 5K and 1-mile fun run. Plus, your registration fee benefits On River Time, which empowers children of abuse and neglect through fly fishing. Register at runsignup.com

10-Day Price Match 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee 100% Outdoors Homewood 3054 Independence Drive • Homewood, AL 35209 Inverness 108 Inverness Plaza • Birmingham, AL 35242 Trussville 5467 Patrick Way, Suite 101 • Trussville, AL 35235

ALABAMAOUTDOORS.COM VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 15

&CULTURE

ARTS

CREATING PLACES

How Chad Martin weaves together the design process for properties around the Southeast.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR & CONTRIBUTED VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 17

J

Just glancing at his office door, there’s no doubt Chad Martin is a designer. The logo for his newly branded business Weave is emblazoned on its grey frame with the same clean, industrial look that exudes from countless projects he has touched.

His design imprint can be seen throughout the Southeast on iron fences, trendy apartment buildings and countless places logos are found, but these days most of it originates in the newly renovated Thomas building on 2nd Avenue North in downtown Birmingham, just a short drive from his home in Tanglewood in Vestavia Hills.

“What is Weave about?” I ask. Chad hands me a

18 December 2018/January 2019

piece of black cardstock letter pressed in an iridescent gold ink. I’m a bit distracted by the sleek design of what I hold in my hand as he explains the concept.

“Typically the architect stays in his lane, the interior designer in their lane, engineers in their lane, landscapers in their lane,” he tells me, pointing to the silo illustration on the top left of the card. But not with his concept. He moves to the next set of illustrations, with strands woven together. The name starts to make perfect sense. “I keep all these professionals tied together so we are making decisions together,” he says.

Chad Martin works from his design office in the Thomas building on 2nd Avenue North.

The visuals don’t end there. Next he motions to what he has sketched on the oversized barn door behind him. “Before I was on an island by myself as a design consultant,” he says. Below the sketch of the island he points to a more complex diagram.

Brand Thinking. Design Thinking. Property Branding. These are the concepts that shape each click of his mouse several feet over as he moves lines and text around on his 35-inch computer monitor.

In a practical sense, those terms mean Chad spends a lot more time on conference calls than he did in previous positions. But through it all he gets

to impose a major influence on the design of a space, typically a multi-unit residential property for an urban area or college town. “I am a designer first,” he tells me. “I like to create places. Whether it’s the logo or the website or the actual building, I am trying to create an experience.”

Whereas before Chad would often get hired to create a logo at the beginning of a project and maybe stationery and signs at the end of a project, now he starts before any dirt is moved. Step one is talking with the developers about what they want. Step two is creating an inspiration package with images of everything from lighting to furniture to interiors to VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 19

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“

I like to create places. Whether it’s the logo or the website or the actual building, I am trying to create an experience.

–Chad Martin

”

finishes to colors—altogether envisioning the feel of the space.

Then as architects and interior designers submit drafts to the developer, Chad reviews them and they collaborate to fit the original vision, crafting an overall experience for people to interact with a physical space. “Before I was creating art to stick on walls, now I can influence how those rooms are shaped,” he explains.

It all makes more sense as he pulls up a design package, or at least parts of the 20 pages he developed. This one is for an apartment development in Chattanooga. It’s a block and a half from the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel, and Chad had discovered a record company called Bluebird Records had been the first to record Glenn Miller’s song “Chattanooga Choo Choo.”

With that, Bluebird Row began to come into being with the blessing of the developers. With it came shades of blue greys and an art deco-meets-industrial feel, first incorporated into a logo, and later onto an Airstream leasing trailer, folders with leasing information, golf carts and accents on the exterior of the building itself.

Talk to Chad too much about one of the trendy complexes he designs and you’ll want to move in yourself. For this one, an old trolley on the property will be refurbished into a poolside cabana 20 December 2018/January 2019

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 21

SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.

These images show Chad’s property branding on student properties (this page) as well as a metal sculptural element in the herb garden at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens he designed (right page).

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complete with charging stations. What was originally going to be a theatre area was redesigned into a live-work space with bird cage-style office spaces. A rooftop bar known as The Roost will overlook Lookout Mountain and is adjacent to an area with liquor and wine lockers each resident can access.

When we get to discussing the artist Chad brought in from Austin to create the mural above the fireplace in Bluebird Row’s clubhouse area, he also mentions how he redirected an interior designer’s plans for a brick fireplace to create an accent wall elsewhere. “So you are like the brand police?” I ask. He doesn’t deny it. He prefers the term brand manager though. The idea is seemingly the same, at least in my book: keeping everyone in tune with the vision down to each color and material choice.

This niche field is one that Chad is seeing take off in California, New York, Washington DC, even in Atlanta, but doesn’t see as much in smaller cities around the Southeast where he works.

Still, Birmingham is where he makes his home and his home base for his work. “There’s more creatives here than in Montgomery (where I grew up),” he says. “I feel like Birmingham is on the rise of being the next Austin or Nashville, and the central location helps me get in and out of a lot of these properties too.”

There’s other visual clues in his office that point to a sense of place too. A framed picture shows off his three daughters who attend Pizitz Middle School and Vestavia High School, and near it is a wire sculpture by Birmingham artist Eric Johnson with each daughter’s first initials for Kate, Meg and Holley

22 December 2018/January 2019 Built A Fort - 3.5 x 9.75 - HooverMagVestaviaHillsMag.indd 1

10/30/18 10:48 AM

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VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 23

Our associates sell the most distinctive homes in Vestavia Hills

This is 3171 Overton Cove

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We understand that we are in a relationship business.

Our clients' needs are our priority and we work hard to find them what they are looking for.

Our agents are here to make a difference.

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Ray & Poynor 24 December 2018/January 2019

incorporated in it.

The more we talk to Chad and ask about his local ties, the more that come to mind for him. He initially frequented Bistro V because he liked the food, and then got to know co-owners Jeremy Downey and Emily Tuttle-Shell. “I thought, ‘I’ve got to get their brand perception up to par to match the great food he’s serving.’ He’s got one of the better restaurants if not the best in Vestavia,” Chad admits. Soon after, he and Jeremy ended up chatting about plans to expand the restaurant into what is now their second storefront area to the right of the original space.

That led to a glass of wine, which led to a new logo, menu design, entry sign and coasters. To finish the job, Randy Waldrop, who owns Vestavia’s Alliance Sign Group and is friends with Chad, connected the final dots to bring the sign to life.

As it turns out, Chad is also to credit for the Rocky Ridge Social Club hats and T-shirts that debuted at Wing Ding this year, noting that it is “rumored since” the year of the Vestavia Hills’ founding. A group of dads of girls in Indian Princess had been on a wing team for years and came up with the name for themselves. Next up they enlisted Chad for their own branding.

There’s a similar story about the new logo for the VHHS Fishing Team in the works, coming soon to a T-shirt near you. Or for all we know, also to a door frame near you.

To learn more about Weave, visit weavebranding.com.

SCHOOL

&SPORTS

GETTING TO KNOW ALL ABOUT YOU How friendships blossom during weekly lunches at New Merkel Senior Center.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY KAREN ASKINS VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 25

E

Every Wednesday six to eight fifth graders pack up their lunch trays or lunch boxes and carry them across the parking lot to New Merkel Senior Center, joining the seniors just as they are each served their hot lunch tray. Together the Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights students play games and talk about pets or sports or what seniors remember about the area from their younger years.

And they laugh a lot too, especially with Joanne Casey, who turned 99 this year. “When they were

26 December 2018/January 2019

talking about someone serving in Battle of the Bulge, (Ms. Joanne) looks over and says, ‘I battle my bulge every day,’” school counselor Cortney McKinney recounts. “She is just hilarious.”

It all started during National Random Acts of Kindness Week in February 2018. Three fifth grade classes packaged cookies, made cards and set out to walk across the parking lot to the senior center.

Cortney now admits she was hesitant about the interaction. “We were concerned that (the students)

New Merkel Senior Center participants share lunch with fifth graders from Vestavia Hills Elementary School Cahaba Heights.

might not chat or that they could be reclusive,” she recounts. But as it turns out each generation was equally interested in the other and found plenty in common even across the wide age gap. “(The students) got to know (the seniors). They played the piano for them. The seniors taught them how to play Rummikub,” Cortney recounts.

The kids loved it. The seniors were excited. The teachers left on a high and looked at each other and said, “We don’t want this to end.” It was then that a

spark was lit to foster a consistent relationship there.

The fifth graders’ lunch time coincides with the seniors’ lunch time, so why not take advantage of that overlap? It didn’t matter that the students had to give up their recess that day to go to these Getting to Know You lunches. They signed up for the six open weekly slots and begged to go back again. “I think initially it’s just fun and getting out of class, but once this first group or two goes and they are VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 27

begging to go back, it becomes about spending time there, which is what we are really looking for,” fifthgrade teacher Tiffany Marron says.

Elementary school students are no strangers to Alan Dane, a retired lawyer whose wife taught at Vestavia Hills Elementary East and who has tutored students himself. “Both my kids are Eagle Scouts, so I talk to them about scouts,” he tells us. “We talk about sports. We talk about my time in fifth grade and how I first developed my love of learning to read. We talk about the kind of books they like to 28 December 2018/January 2019

read. You have to draw them out at first, but they open up a bit and start volunteering information.”

For Joe Brasher, it’s especially fun to share stories about when he was a student at the school the students decades his junior now attend. In 1940 he started at what was then called New Merkel School before going to Shades Valley High School. About 15 students were in his grade, as opposed to 60-plus the kids have now. “I tell them how I started here and that they called (Cahaba Heights) New Merkel back then,” he says. “I talk to them about how I

“

We talk about sports. We talk about my time in fifth grade and how I first developed my love of learning to read. We talk about the kind of books they like to read. You have to draw them out at first, but they open up a bit and start volunteering information.

”

–New Merkel Participant Alan Dane

enjoyed the teachers here, and how the building has been changed so much.”

The sharing goes both ways too. Last year the seniors couldn’t get over what one of the students shared with them. “We can’t believe she’s writing a book and writing it on the computer!” they kept telling New Merkel manager Melanie Perry afterward.

When the teachers alert the students that it’s almost time to leave around 12:30 p.m., it’s the seniors who speak first. “Just a few more minutes”

they say. And the kids echo it back.

So it’s no surprise the seniors invited the students to their garden party and a birthday party. In turn, the students invited them to their art gala—where a few seniors who attended saw familiar students and got to oooh and ahh over their work, like any grandparent would.

These interactions also help teach the kids conversation skills. “We tell them if you are at a loss for things to say to talk about yourself because they like to hear about you and it’s an okay time to talk

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 29

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about yourself,” Cortney explains. “We are here not just to develop good students but to develop good citizens, and I can’t think of a better way to do that than to integrate with this seniors who are at our doorstep.”

Watching all these interactions unfold makes the organizers behind it reflect too. “I was timid around senior citizens when I was their age, so to me this opens up a whole new world for them to get to know and cherish these small moments with them,” Cortney says.

Seeing the intergenerational interaction reminds Melanie of her grandparents, and that she wishes she had listened to them more. “When (these seniors) can share with these young people, maybe they can put one bit of wisdom in their lives they can reflect on,” she says. “Maybe it’s teaching them

the art of listening and respecting your elders.”

For this year’s fifth grade classes, the weekly visits started in October and will run through the end of school. This year’s class had already heard about the visits from last year, and it wasn’t hard to build momentum for the sign-up sheets. “We tried to talk to the kids and tell them this was an opportunity for the kids to converse with the seniors and get to know them,” Tiffany says.

Like last year, it will all culminate in the Rally Finale, which is essentially a graduation ceremony for the fifth graders. Last year the school had saved seats for the seniors at the big event and gave them each a rose when they walked in. “The kids just loved that,” Tiffany says. And the seniors did too.

Just recalling the memory makes Melanie tear up.

“It’s working,” she tells us.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 31

32 December 2018/January 2019

&DRINK

FOOD

THE SAME OLD DIP

There’s two new guys behind the counter, but the Diplomat Deli has been holding strong since 1982.

PHOTOS AND STORY BY EMMA SIMMONS VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 33

W

When Justin Gober and Joseph Hoskin found themselves at the helm of the Diplomat Deli in 2016, it wasn’t broken, and it didn’t need fixing. Its then-owners were on the cusp of retirement and needed someone to pick up the check.

The deli has changed hands several times since opening in 1982, but over the years, its eclectic charm has engendered an immutable identity.

“There are not many places like this left. We’re two different stores in one. We’re a beer and wine shop. And we’re a restaurant,” Hoskin explains.

Its relatively new owners have sworn to preserve the bodega-deli hybrid. For 36 years, the deli has consistently served the same sandwiches, sliced

34 December 2018/January 2019

Diplomat Deli owners Joseph Hoskin and Justin Gober

the same way, by many of the same folks.

“Working in the business is hard, but fortunately enough, we cheated and bought a restaurant that already had the best employees in the world.

Everyone was cool with staying and hanging out with us,” a grateful Hoskin acknowledges.

Ms. Teresa Boone, the head server, has been dishing out the deli’s Reubens for 15 years, and Felix Cruz, the general manager, has demonstrated his loyalty for about a decade. Every week, the humble staff of 15 contends with the high expectations of a few hundred regulars.

“We have a lot of folks who come in here four days a week, and most of them have been coming

Diplomat’s Muffaletta serves up salami, ham, pastrami, Swiss cheese, provolone cheese, mustard and olive salad on French bread.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 35

36 December 2018/January 2019

here for 30 years and have only had one thing,” Hoskin says.

As former customers who grew up nearby, Gober and Hoskin empathize with their longtime regulars’ resistance to change…to a point.

“Clock Lady,” a “very sweet” regular patron, earned her nickname for relentlessly giving the pair grief over the store clock’s relocation to an adjacent wall. Although they haven’t backed down from their décor decisions, they’ve still managed to quell the suspicions of even the most stubborn customers, including Clock Lady.

“I’d be afraid to take the carpet out, as much as

it drives me crazy. People like it how it is. (It) doesn’t matter what I think. I’m just paying the bills,” Gober says, likely fearful of retaliation.

The vintage coolers may need repairs, and at some point, the building will require an update.

But the staples that regulars have been savoring since ’82, like the Reuben and the “World’s Best” Chili, aren’t going anywhere. The Diplomat dudes have already cooked up several new menu items, including a Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and a Greek Salad.

They have also ushered in a couple of recurring evening events, a boon to Greater Birminghamians VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 37

“

Working in the business is hard, but fortunately enough, we cheated and bought a restaurant that already had the best employees in the world. Everyone was cool with staying and hanging out with us

38 December 2018/January 2019

-Joseph Hoskin

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who aren’t keen on leaving the little ones behind.

“My wife and I have two kids, so we always look for a place where we can go that’s not a bar where some guy is falling off his stool, cursing loudly,” Hoskin notes.

In Diplomat Deli, Hoskin found the perfect opportunity for tapping into that market of fun-loving families. Two years ago, the pair launched Wednesday trivia nights and Friday patio parties, which both draw a packed house of young

families, professionals and old-timers.

“There are definitely times when we’re outnumbered by 8-year-olds. They’re a strong force,” Gober says.

Much to the owners’ relief, veteran Dippers are unfazed, especially as much has remained the same.

Over the past 36 years, the deli’s caretakers have perfected the art of converting first-timers into regulars, through a commitment to quality and consistency. The Long Island Sub tastes just like it did three decades ago, and the

Muffuletta

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Salami, ham, pastrami, Swiss cheese, provolone cheese, mustard, olive salad on French bread

The Carolyn Special

Not on the menu, popularized by its namesake, a longtime regular.

It’s a secret!

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 39

40 December 2018/January 2019

beverage selection remains unparalleled, at least in town.

The Diplomat is one of the few, if only, Birmingham-area restaurants that offers more than 200 varieties of both beer and wine. In their respective realms of expertise, both Gober and Hoskin ensure customer input is reflected in the everevolving beer and wine selections.

“We special-order certain wines and beers every day. Justin buys all the wine, I buy all the beer. And everything else, we just split up,” Hoskin reveals.

Not a wine goes up on the shelf that Gober hasn’t tasted and given his seal of approval. The same goes for Hoskin, who personally stocks the deli’s impressive beer cooler, which nearly spans the length of the store. “We added a big draft system of beers from all the local breweries, taking it from six to 16 taps,” Gober boasts.

Bolstered by the community’s unwavering devotion, the Diplomat Deli will remain focused on legacy, if its current owners have anything to say about it. “If we can do this for 30 years and find two suckers to sell it to, that’s the American dream!” Hoskin exclaims.

While the duo is only two years in, they’re already tinkering with the idea of expanding the Diplomat Deli brand to another location, or even a food truck. “We just wanna keep gas in this tank and keep this train rolling on the track. However, I don’t think either of us wants to be standing behind just that cash register for the rest of our lives,” Hoskin divulges.

Sometime within the next few years, Hoskin and Gober hope the deli’s devotees will be getting to the Dip…somewhere else.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 41

FOOD & DRINK

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Frank & Brandi Hall + Ron Jones

Wintzell’s Oyster House Franchisee + Opening Manager PHOTO BY MADOLINE MARKHAM

Wintzell’s roots grew up in Mobile starting 80 years ago and still ships up fresh oysters and more to ensure the same taste as the recipes at its inland locations—plus other Southern fare to go with it. The new location in the former Fresco spot in Heights Village is serving up Gulf coast seafood every day 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Here’s what you should know about its history and menu offerings.

What’s the back story on Wintzell’s?

Frank: It started as a six-stool oyster bar and all they served was oysters, and then it grew. Bob and Buffy Donlon bought it in 1999 and immediately started an organization to help grow Wintzell’s. Now there are nine locations, and we run the location in Fultondale that opened about three years ago. We are working on one in Leeds too.

What’s your back story with Wintzell’s?

Frank: I started off as a server in college and so did Brandi, and we met there. Here we are married and have a few restaurants together. Ron opened the Guntersville restaurant and was the general manager there for over a decade.

Can you talk some about the new space in Cahaba Heights?

Frank: We really liked the area, demographics, traffic counts—all the things you get with Cahaba Heights and Vestavia Hills. This is a different style restaurant 42 December 2018/January 2019

than our others. They are usually about 6,000 square feet, and this one is about 3,000. It’s cozy and seats about 90 people.

What should we order?

Ron: Wintzell’s is infamous for our chargrilled oysters. They are our No. 1-selling item. We also have award-winning gumbo with a recipe that’s been around a long time with shrimp and crab meat, topped with white rice. We have a Coastal Cobb Salad too with greens, egg, tomato, onion, bacon and cheese with fish and shrimp. It’s filling.

Frank: When I was serving tables, the things I always suggested were the raw oysters, the gumbo, the fried green tomatoes and the bread pudding. A lot of the menu has stayed the same. Our crab claws come in out of Bayou La Batre south of Mobile County. Our bacon-wrapped shrimp entrée has Gulf shrimp with a julienned jalapeno wrapped in bacon and grilled.

We also have hand-cut steaks and serve a

14-ounce ribeye. We have a bread pudding, no raisins, served with a rum sauce.

We now have a happy hour with halfpriced raw oysters and half-priced grilled oysters, and some appetizers and beer, wine and liquor specials. On tap we have all local craft beer and also the Fairhope Amber, which is from down where we are from.

What are all these signs we see on the walls?

Brandi: The original owner J. Oliver Wintzell would write down little “bits of wisdom.” There are pictures of him up in here too. It was fun to hang the signs and not read them all. They are funny.

Ron: The founder’s brother was a pastor, so you could tell the difference between the two. They’d write them on napkins and tack them up there. A lot of visitors will stand around reading the signs. It was said we started with 5,000 signs, but who knows if that’s true. Each store averages about 1,500.

Every now and then you might catch a double.

&STYLE

HOME

THE GOLDEN TOUCH A panoramic patio view and stunning metallic details make the Mallempati home shine.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY LAUREN USTAD VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 43

W

Walk onto the Mallempatis’ blue stone-lined back patio, and you can’t help but stare ahead as you overlook the entire Samford University campus and beyond, spotting Vulcan off to the right. And there’s no hindrance to the view either—the only railing is made of glass. It’s no wonder that, despite their busy schedules with medical practices and three kids, Vinita and Srinivas make a special point to drink their coffee out here on weekends together, and to host plenty of parties year-round since they have heat lamps for when temperatures drop.

It was this view that first caught their eye when they saw the house—well that and the home’s open feel and the statement-making curved staircase in the entryway. But when they looked at it the first time, they didn’t have kids yet and were both in the middle of their medical residencies, so the spacious house just wasn’t a good fit. Fast forward several years and three kids later, and Vinita and Srinivas were working on plans to build a house when this home came on the market once again. “It had everything we wanted in a house,” Vinita recalls. “I had watched enough HGTV to know we could change things to work for the flow of their family.” Plus, it would allow their kids to stay in Vestavia schools, and the fact that it had main level entry and a finished basement were extra bonuses.

So they bought the home and enlisted the assistance of contractor Rusty Luccassen and interior designer

44 December 2018/January 2019

Dana Holcombe to make it all the more what they were looking for in a home. Out back they pulled off the existing back deck and added a patio that spans the full width of the home on two levels, creating multiple seating areas. Inside, they reworked the kitchen and played a game of musical rooms to make the space more functional for their family. The former laundry room became a spacious pantry and butler’s pantry, and there’s now a laundry room upstairs close to their bedrooms. An extra half bathroom became a mudroom to store their kids’ backpacks and more.

And wherever she could Vinita added gold and silver details that are just her style.

Other adjustments centered around Vashtu, an Indian feng shui that the family practices. According to Vashtu, the head of the family should sleep in the southwest corner of the house, so they made the downstairs master a guest suite and converted in upstairs bedroom in the proper corner to a master, converting extra rooms into a spacious master bathroom and closet. They also added a side door to use as their primary entryway because the previous door from the garage was in the southwest corner, a positioning that signifies the god of death.

Their renovations touch most of the house, but the Mallempatis find they spend most of their time in and around their kitchen—and taking in the views out the back that first sold them on the property.

Entryway The statement staircase at the entrance to the house stands out all the more atop new marble tile floor and adjacent to a black baby grand piano that two of the three Mallempatis kids play.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 45

Kitchen A custom-made steel hood overhead and nearly translucent quartzite countertops are statement makers of this renovated kitchen. The family added a second dishwasher for entertaining and converted the original laundry room into a butler’s pantry with counter space for appliances and lunch making and spacious shelving for both their Indian and American cooking staples.

46 December 2018/January 2019

Kitchen Details Vinita’s favorite part of the kitchen is the marble tile backsplash with gold accents she found at Triton.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 47

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Back Patio The blue stone-lined back patio spans the full width of the house on two levels, and offers panoramic views through the glass railing over the Samford University campus and beyond.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 49

Living Room This open area off the house’s elegant entryway showcases both back patio views and the darker stain of hardwood they added in renovations—and Vinita’s choice of gold both in the chandelier and coffee table.

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Girl’s Bedroom As the only daughter in the family, Keerthi’s room boasts feminine touches with her antique-looking canopy bed and antiqued mirror-clad side tables. What you can’t see in the photo is how the room connects to attic space that now acts as a sound-proofed, carpeted music room that connects to one of her brother’s rooms—and also functions as a video game room and hideout when friends come over.

Den Now covered in limestone, this fireplace is surrounded by shiplap walls that were added in the renovation.

BEHIND THE SCENES Contractor: Rusty Lucassen, R&R Construction Interior Designer: Dana Holcombe Lighting: Butler Lighting

Select Furniture: EJ Victor

Plumbing Fixtures: Ferguson

Countertops and Tile: Triton Stone VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 51

Master Bedroom To create an upstairs room, Vinita and Srinivas converted two extra rooms adjacent to this smaller bedroom into a spacious bathroom and closet, all complete with the gold, shiny details Vinita loves to display.

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54 December 2018/January 2019

Under the

Crown

Behind Collins McMurray’s Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen title lies academic rigor, community service and a love for the fine arts.

BY ELIZABETH STURGEON | PHOTOS BY KAREN ASKINS AND CONTRIBUTED

The stage of Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen was a memorable one for Collins McMurray in March. She made it to the top 10 and then listened as they listed off the third runner-up, second runner-up, first runner-up. But her name still wasn’t called. Then, the girl standing next to her whispered, “Collins, you just won.”

And to her surprise, she did.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 55

With that the Vestavia Hills High School senior became Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen. She’d go on to be named the third runner-up at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen in July and hear her name called for the overall highest GPA award at the national competition. She’s even getting full tuition to pursue her degree at Auburn. And, yes, this has all been her first experience with pageants.

Although she’d been singing and acting for most of her life, Collins never thought this kind of competition was for her. “A lot of people assume that pageants are based on looks and other superficial things,” she says. “Girls are usually more cutthroat in 56 December 2018/January 2019

competition.” But unlike her assumptions, she was always greeted with kindness when she entered this new world. From the moment she walked into a room filled with pageant pros to when she won the Alabama competition, she felt like another friend the other girls had known for years.

Even though she hadn’t grown up with the glitz of pageant life, Collins seems to take on the Miss Alabama responsibilities pretty seamlessly. “She fits all the criteria. And talent is a big part of it, so people would get to hear her sing,” her mom Melissa says.

Not surprisingly, she won overall talent for singing at the state level. Collins has always craved that creative

A QUICK Q&A Hear a little bit more from Collins about some of her Vestavia favorites and some pageant tips: Go-to dinner spot?

My favorite restaurant in Vestavia is Sol Azteca!

Favorite dessert?

I love Cafe Iz chocolate bombs!

Place to shop?

The Clothes Tree! They’re the best, and they’re my sponsors for Miss Alabama’s ABOVE: Collins with her brothers Jack and Hamp. BELOW: Collins volunteers at Children’s of Alabama

Outstanding Teen.

Most memorable VHHS moment?

When we raised $250,000 for cancer research.

Why should more girls try a pageant?

It gives you the opportunity to pursue a college degree debt-free and gain interview and public speaking skills, selfconfidence and a servant’s heart. And you make lifelong friends!

Biggest piece of pageant advice?

Continue to be yourself and allow

the judges to know your personality throughout the pageant. Trying to imitate someone else’s style is only going to distract you from doing your best. For me, that meant staying rooted in my faith when I was anxious during competition.

outlet. She sang and danced before she could ever talk, and she’s taken voice lessons from her coach Amy Murphy since she was 7 years old. “I can’t imagine not going to sing in the middle of my day.

It’s a stress-reliever and a good way to escape,” she says.

Singing breaks up her school day and turns on a different kind of thinking and learning. Her love for the fine arts stretches much further too, from playing Annie in her school’s version of Annie in sixth grade to the Red Mountain Theater Company productions, and to dancing as a Rockette in the VHHS band.

“People need to be more informed about the benefits

of arts in education. Even just one class helps with mental health, developmentally, socially and academically,” she says. She quickly recalls how the theatre program at her middle school got cut after her sixth grade year, and although it is back in place now, Collins has learned how many schools don’t have supported fine arts like Vestavia has provided for her.

With her Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen responsibilities, she’s traveled around the state, equipped with national statistics and her own talent, to learn more about other schools with fewer fine arts opportunities and how she can work to make a VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 57

“

Yes, I put on a gown and makeup and I curl my hair, but that’s just because it makes me feel confident.

-Collins McMurray

Collin, a senior at Vestavia Hills High School, performs the half time show as a Rockette.

58 December 2018/January 2019

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change. Fine arts education is quite the fitting platform for her since she can speak from her own experience.

Collins knows she learns better, even in her core classes, through the incorporation of creative thinking. “I realized the lack of arts in school systems, and that really hurt me. I’m more creative-minded,” she says. Her high school choir teacher Megan Rudolph agrees that the fine arts benefit students’ education and their own personal harmony. “I have seen kids begin to soar in our classroom and then soar in every facet of their lives,” Megan says. “Singing is the one thing that engages the entire brain.”

Megan also speaks to how Collins possesses the drive to stand behind her platform too. “She is extremely confident, yet extremely sensitive towards others,” she says. “She is a natural born leader and has instincts that are beyond her years.” But you wouldn’t necessarily know it when you meet her. “She’s humble, but goal-oriented,” Melissa says. “You would not know her achievements from her, so you have to learn about them some other way. She’s a very discerning and loving person.”

Also as a part of Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, Collins has worked with Children’s Miracle Network. “It’s definitely strengthened my love for service,” she says. She’s visited Children’s of Alabama downtown, and she’s been raising money through her jewelry business CDesigns for the kids she meets in these interactions. Another creative outlet for her, Collins started making chokers and earrings for herself, working beads and charms into trendy styles because she didn’t want to pay for expensive pieces. Then, other Vestavia students became interested, and Collins now donates a portion of the profit to

A STUDENT'S VISION FOR CITY CONNECTION

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Collins with Miss Alabama Callie Walker after winning the Scholastic Award for highest GPA at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen in Orlando.

Children’s Miracle Network. “It was something I really enjoyed, and now it allows people to give back too,” she says.

Miss America Outstanding Teen is about more than service and talent too. Collins is not just wearing a long dress—she’s planning, studying and brainstorming to figure out how to address the problems she sees in the world. “I had to study a range of things, anywhere from ‘If you could go to dinner with any three people, who would it be?’ to ‘What’s your opinion on abortion and same-sex marriage?’” Collins says.

There’s even an academic score factored into the competition that rewards hard-working students, judged by professors who never even see the contestants. Collins excelled in the academic category as well as the talent, both parts of her life that she pours energy into. “They’re not looking for a certain kind of girl,” she says. “Yes, I put on a gown and makeup and I curl my hair, but that’s just because it makes me feel confident. You’re not scored on the way you look or the way your hair is done. It’s about how you walk in the gown, the way you grace the stage, and how you answer your on-stage questions.”

Melissa was also surprised to find out that the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen pageants and preliminaries are put on by volunteers. “It’s a lot of time, but they invest in these girls and want them to do well and have bright futures,” she says. With the scholarships she’s received through the program, Collins plans to study chemical engineering with a pre-med concentration to pave the way for medical school. “I don’t think one girl walks away with nothing. Everyone gets some form of scholarship,” Melissa says.

Above all, the Outstanding Teen competitions have simply given Collins the role to explore different ways she can serve others and challenge her to find solutions to problems she sees, all things she has always done but now has an avenue to do so.

Collins will put away the pageant life when she starts her freshman year at Auburn, but Melissa thinks she’ll definitely go back at some point because she loves the people so much. So, tune in to Miss America in a few years, and maybe you’ll see Collins on the big screen, sporting another crown.

To learn more about Collins’ journey as Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen, follow her on Instagram @maoteenal. You can also find her jewelry on Instagram @_cdesigns.

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A Force of

Nature

SHE MIGHT HAVE BROKEN 100 BONES BY AGE 10, BUT THERE WAS NO STOPPING ANNA CURRY GUALANO FROM CLIMBING MOUNTAINS.

BY MELANIE PEEPLES | PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR & CONTRIBUTED

62 December 2018/January 2019

They said she wouldn’t survive. Then they said she’d never walk or live independently. That she’d need special schooling and care for the rest of her life. Somewhere along the line they quit saying what she could or couldn’t do.

If anyone had thought Anna Curry Gualano would try climbing the taIlest mountain in Africa, they probably would have told her she was crazy. But it wouldn’t have mattered because Anna quit listening to those people a long time ago.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 63

She was born with two broken legs and a dislocated hip, though it would take doctors a while to figure it out. X-rays revealed Anna’s bones had already begun to heal, so they realized her injuries had happened in utero. Finally, after two weeks, the diagnosis came: Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or OI, also known as Brittle Bone Disorder. Affecting one in 15,000 people, OI is a genetic condition that stems from a lack of collagen in connective tissue. It is characterized, mainly, by bones that break easily or without a specific cause.

It was a miracle that Anna, now 38, had even survived being born. As a child, she broke a bone putting on a Sunday dress. Sneezing could break her spine. By the time she was 10, she had logged more than 100 broken bones. Somewhere along the line they quit counting.

Anna’s parents, Marga and Ashley Curry (the 64 December 2018/January 2019

current mayor of Vestavia Hills), moved to Birmingham in order for their daughter to be treated by one of the country’s only pediatric OI experts. He gave them two options: keep Anna in a wheelchair to keep her from getting hurt, or let her live a normal life and address the breaks as they happened. They chose the latter, though they probably thought they’d have a little more say in the matter when it came to what, exactly, she’d try.

“In Vestavia, in the ‘80s, girls softball is where it was at,” Anna says over coffee at O’Henry’s.

“Everybody played softball and so I wanted to do it.”

She was 7 and had seen enough of her older brother’s games and baseball trophies to know she wanted in on that, too. Her parents said no. But Anna didn’t quit.

One day, she caught her mom away and talked her

“

I knew what it meant to break a bone. Anybody with (Brittle Bone Disorder) understands that it’s a vicious cycle (breaking bones and waiting for them to heal), but I also knew that the benefit of doing it...

So for me, it was absolutely worth the risk. .-Anna Curry Gualano on playing softball

”

Anna Curry Gualano climbed the 19,341-foot Mount Kilimanjaro with her dad, current Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry, in 2009.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 65

PARENTING ANNA We asked Anna’s mother, Marga Curry, about what it was like parenting such a force of nature. “She always was,” Marga says, “a force of nature.”

ON SOFTBALL Yes, they really thought the doctor would say no. “A lot of it was trying to teach her to make good choices.” But the night in the hospital after breaking her legs in the softball game, Marga says Anna told the coach, “I’d do it again, tomorrow.”

What Anna didn’t tell us (but her mom was happy to) was that the Vestavia Girls Softball League established the Anna Curry Award that they give each year to the player who shows the most courage.

PREGNANCY “It was terrifying!” Marga says of when Anna got pregnant. But it’s not like she

Anna Curry Gualano and her dad Ashley Curry with the porters who helped them climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

could do anything. “A lot of things she does, she doesn’t ask.”

LAW SCHOOL Another thing Anna didn’t tell us but her mother was more than happy to share was that the University of Alabama Law School created an award in Anna’s name given each year to a law student who has shown outstanding leadership and service to the law school.

KILIMANJARO What do you do when your daughter with OI tells you over dinner (while in a wheelchair from playing football on the beach) she’s going to climb a mountain?

“You roll your eyes and say, ‘Oh, Anna!’ and then you get a drink.”

WHAT’S NEXT “I’m almost afraid to ask.”

66 December 2018/January 2019

dad, an FBI special agent, into taking her to buy a pair of cleats. “So my mom gets home later that night and I’m already in bed. My dad has to sort of fess up to what he’s done, and so my mom says, ‘You have to go in there and wake her up and you have to tell her that she can’t play softball.’ So they go in, and I’m asleep with the cleats,” she says laughing.

Anna’s parents decided if her doctor said she could play, then they’d let her.

The truth is, they never thought he’d say yes. “He said, ‘Well, if you understand the risks and you’re willing to live with them, I don’t see why you can’t play,’” Anna says, stills triumphant. “So I got to play.”

It was a big responsibility to give a 7-year-old. “That first season I broke both of my legs trying to stretch a single into a double,” she says, with a laugh that surely wasn’t as easy to find when she spent the rest of the long, hot,

summer in two leg casts, unable to go to the pool.

“Even at 7, I understood the consequences,” Anna says. “I knew what it meant to break a bone. Anybody with OI understands that it’s a vicious cycle (breaking bones and waiting for them to heal), but I also knew that the benefit of doing it and participating in a team, feeling like I could knock the ball out of the park—all of that stuff was far more important to me than the temporary downside of having a broken bone. I knew what that was like. So for me, it was absolutely worth the risk.” And she played two more seasons, until the league switched to girl’s pitch, which was just too dangerous since a hit in the chest could kill her.

But according to Anna, those three years changed her life. She credits girls softball in Vestavia for setting the tone for the rest of her life. “I WAS a part of the team and I DID get to do a sport that

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I never thought was going to be possible for me, and it just sort of proved—solidified for me —that man!, if I really DO want to do something, I CAN.” And indeed she could. “Kilimanjaro?” Anna says when I ask.

“That was just the next in a series.”

Anna first got the idea to climb the volcanic peak in Tanzania while she was in law school, but the timing wasn’t right. A few years later, when she broke her leg playing football on the beach (I know, right?), she was laid up in the hospital in Atlanta, finding it harder to recover than it had ever been before, and she knew she needed a goal, something for her to focus on.

She waited until her parents came to take her out on her birthday, and AFTER they’d ordered, to tell them her big idea.

She sat there, in her wheelchair, waiting for their reaction, when her dad said, “When do we go?”

It took her three years to get there. First, she had to do therapy just to walk again. After that, she had to train since climbing Kilimanjaro means hiking 10 to 15 miles a day. For a woman who can break a bone stepping wrong off a curb, climbing a 19,341foot mountain that starts in a rainforest with roots and vines that are easy to trip over, shifts to rocks that roll under your feet, and ends in boulders and ice, was a serious undertaking. But she did it in 2009. Even more amazingly, she didn’t break a single bone.

Then, she married a fellow lawyer who had just finished

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through-hiking the Appalachian Trail and understood a thing or two about goals, himself. Anna always knew she wanted a family, but for someone with OI, giving birth can have dire consequences.

“A couple doctors told us that it would kill me,” she says. “I didn’t really believe that.” She did think the strain of carrying a child would cost her her mobility, but she was more than willing to make the trade. “There are some things that are more important,” she says.

Six years ago, she had a son, Luke, delivered five weeks early via Caesarean section. She had breaks in her spine and ribs, but to hear her tell it, “I did pretty well with that pregnancy.”

You’re probably not surprised to hear she didn’t settle for one child. She and her husband welcomed a daughter, Charlie, three years ago. After all, she “just knew our family wasn’t complete.”

Anna had heart and lung difficulties during that pregnancy, and now says she’s perfectly satisfied with two.

What she isn’t satisfied with is sitting around doing nothing.

Some days she uses a wheelchair to minimize the stress on her leg bones, and though pain is a regular part of her life, she reports having children has not taken the toll she expected. In fact, she and her husband, Mark, have participated in the Callaway Gardens Triathlon three times and are planning to do it again next June. As in the past, they’ll raise money for the Jamie Kendall Fund for OI Adult Health, named for a friend who had OI and died a few years ago during a routine operation from anesthesia.

Aerobic fitness is one of the best things Anna can do for herself since lung and heart problems are a common complication from OI because all the body’s organs need collagen to work properly.

For the first time she’s thinking about using a racing chair for the running portion of the course.

“I don’t see the chair as this kind of cage anymore. I did when I was a kid. I really didn’t like being in a chair. Now, I’m so much faster in the chair,” she says, laughing. “I still am trying to be as mobile as I can, but my goal is fitness, however I can come by it. I would like to stick around awhile for my kids.”

I’m pleased to report Anna has given up on playing beach football. And water skiing.

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Monday-Saturday 10am to 5:30pm 4045 Helena Road, Helena, AL 35080 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 69

HOLIDAY 1

SPECIAL ADVERTISING

GIF T GUIDE 2

1. LUXURY DOG BED Big, plush, and comfortable – signature line of Bagel Beds has it all! Customize yours by selecting the top and bottom fabric. Removable cover for washing. 24” to 50” diameter starting at $109 Whiskers & Wags Pet Boutique, 16618 Hwy 280, Suite 100, Chelsea, AL 35043. (205) 618-9496.

2. DEAR PRUDENCE

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Suburb much? Dear Prudence offers fun on trend fashion & gifts. Find them in the Patton Creek shopping center! 181 Main Street, Suite 105, Hoover, (205) 407-7523.

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3. “MY LITTLE RED WAGON” ORNAMENT Christopher Radko’s “My Little Red Wagon” Ornament, which benefits Children’s of Alabama, is made in family-owned European factories that use centuries-old techniques to blow, silver, handlacquer and embellish. Available at Bromberg’s, 2800 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham (205) 871-3276.

4. EMERALD CATS EYE NECKLACE AND EARRINGS Beautiful Emerald Cats Eye Necklace and Earrings

by Kendra Scott’s Fall Collection. Stop by and see out great collection of Kendra Scott Jewelry.

Available at Cahaba Lily South, 5479 US-280, Suite 117, Birmingham, (205) 490-6210

5. ALL PURPOSE WOODEN SERVING BOWL $130. Available at Wallace Burke Jewelry, 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 8741044.

70 December 2018/January 2019

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING 6

6. GAMEDAY SUPER SOFT SWEATSHIRTS Gameday Super Soft Sweatshirts make the perfect Christmas gift. Available for $58 at The Ditsy Daisy, 16383 US-280, Chelsea, AL 35043, (205) 678-6166.

7. SWEET GRACE LAUNDRY DETERGENT Give your garments the VIP treatment with Sweet Grace laundry detergent by Bridgewater Candle Company. We also carry room spray, auto vent, candles and many other products. Available at Celeste Heavenly Boutique, 611 Doug Baker Blvd, Suite 114, Birmingham, (205) 407-4400.

8. MAGIC CITY WOODWORKS BIRD HOUSE KITS Available for $19.95 at Alabama Gas, Light and Grill, 2828 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209.

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9. MOTO LEGGING FROM ALO

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The Moto Legging from Alo is the perfect legging to move with you in the gym & paired with a sweater for your everyday life. Available at Eleven Eleven, 2411 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, (205) 423-5071.

10. HOBO WALLET AND PURSE Wallet, $128, and Purse, $298, available at Gifted, 2643 Pelham PKWY, Pelham, AL 35124, (205) 6243400.

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VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 71

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 11 11. SOFIA PURSES Sofia purses, genuine leather bags, Sofia is a designer out of Houston. Her cross-body bags have a removable chain and can be turned into a clutch. $135 each. Available at Hemline, 1802 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 8029252.

12. PATAGONIA NANO PUFF JACKET The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket sold out last year, so you don’t want to miss out. Perfect for all outdoor activities! $199. Available at Alabama Outdoors, 108 Inverness Plaza, Birmingham, (205) 980-3303.

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13. SIMPLY BRIE BOWL WITH RECIPE Makes a perfect gift or hostess gift. Many styles and potters to choose from. $36-$42. Available at The Cook Store, 2841 Cahaba Rd , Mountain Brook, (205) 879 5277.

14. STUDDED SHOULDER BAG

A buttery soft studded shoulder bag from Baske California. $425. Available at Ryan Reeve, 300 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, (205) 518-5010.

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72 December 2018/January 2019

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 16

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15. AT HOME Drinking with the Saints, $29.99. Bites on a Board, $24.99. Available at At Home, 2921 18th Street S, Homewood, 35029. (205) 879-3510.

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16. FROZEN TO GO DOUGH Frozen Dough To Go pack of 15 dough balls, $18. Lodge 5” mini skillets, $11.75. Available at Cookie Fix, 2854 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 582-2623.

17. ARTICLE 22 BIRTHSTONE NECKLACE

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Birthstones are a symbol of our entrance into and journey through life. We are our very own transformation stories. Article 22 is devoted to turning something negative (bombs) into something positive (jewelry). Available at Paige Albright, 2814 Petticoat Lane, Mountain Brook, (205) 877-3232.

18. FROSTED FLEECE ROBE

Relax this holiday season in this silky, sensual frosted fleece robe! One size, five colors, $85... definitely on her list! Available at Marguerite’s Conceits, 2406 Canterbury Rd, Mountain Brook Village, (205) 879-2730 .

19. UNPUBLISHED HUNTER GREEN CORDUROY SKIRT

Cute Unpublished hunter green corduroy skirt for your junior or tween. Sized small-large: $62.00.

Available at Snap Girls, 240 Country Club Park , Mountain Brook, (205) 500-0302.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 73

SPECIAL ADVERTISING 20

20. MUDPIE CHRISTMAS SHIRT $20. Available at Gifted, 2643 Pelham PKWY, Pelham, AL 35124, (205) 624-3400.

21. TIFOSI SUNGLASSES Discover Tifosi Sunglasses with interchangeable lenses for every condition and vented lenses for better air circulation to prevent fogging. Available in many styles for men and women.

PharmSouth, 34 Manning Place, Birmingham, AL 35242, in the town of Mt Laurel, (205) 991-5265.

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Take full advantage of the growing city that is Birmingham with Around Town Passbook, your entertainment tour guide. Live local, Be Social. $30.

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23. SPANX LEGGINGS Spanx leggings, faux leather leggings, with a control top, available in multiple styles. $98$110. Available at Hemline, 1802 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 802-9252.

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74 December 2018/January 2019

24. OASIS HOT TUBS AND SWIM SPAS

Searching for that special Christmas gift, look no further! Relax in your personal spa after a stressful day. You have earned it! Available at Oasis Hot Tubs and Swim Spas, 5511 Hwy 280, Suite #106, Birmingham, (205) 703-1840.

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25. JUDITH MARCH TRUCKER HATS

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$35. Available at Oh My Sole, 4045 Helena Rd, Helena, AL 35080, (205) 406-5602.

26. CONSIGNED DESIGN We have dozens of pieces like this necklace that should be on every girl’s wish list, $16. Connect with us on Facebook and Insta. Available at Consigned Design, 72 Fulton Springs Road, Suite A, Alabaster, AL, 205-664-7540.

27. 2’ BY 3’ YASTIKS 2” by 3” Yastiks on holiday sale for $165.

Available at 18th Street Orientals, 1829 18th Street, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 870-3838.

28. EltaMD SUNSCREENS

28 29

EltaMD sunscreens help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer. EltaMD is formulated with titanium and zinc oxide for optimum sun protection.

Available at Cahaba Dermatology, 2279 Valleydale Rd, Suite 100, Hoover, (205) 279-SKIN.

29. LONDON BLUE TOPAZ WITH WHITE GOLD Available for $1,295 at Anthony and Co., 2080 Valleydale Rd, Suite 6, Hoover, AL 35244, (205) 987-2224.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 75

OUT & ABOUT

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COMMUNITY NIGHT OUT

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PHOTOS BY MALLORY BARRY

Vestavia Hills Police and Fire departments held a night of fun and demonstrations at Vestavia Hills City Hall on Oct. 2.

1. Lindsey, Miller, Tyler and Olivia Odle 2. Jonathan and Eben Cox 3. Annie Dodd and Queenie Samaha 4. Kendall and Carter Janorschke 5. Jing and Daniel Yuan 6. Hannah and Burke Swearingen 7. Mike O’Donnell, Ethan Taylor and Leonette Slay 8. Rebecca and Jason Vermeer 9. Jenny and Andrew Sun 10. Rory Brook 11. Jennifer and Nate Hart 12. Hope, Jimmy and Jameson Kernan 13. Virginia Swain and Elizabeth Hargrove 14. Madison Murrell and Katherine Ratliff

76 December 2018/January 2019

OUT & ABOUT

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homeless

for the holidays

just

$20 gives meals, shelter & more!

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JimmieHaleMission.com VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 77

OUT & ABOUT

1

FALL FASHION SHOW & LUNCHEON

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PHOTOS BY MADOLINE MARKHAM

Students took the runway wearing fashions from local boutiques at Vestavia Country Club for this event presented by PNC Bank and benefitting the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation.

1. Avery Thrower, Elizabeth Ann Burton, Laura Kate Lawrence and Sophie Nelson

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2. Margaret Yanoksy and Mary Whit Stoddard 3. Lily Anderson, Grace Davis and Julia Claire Armstrong 4. Ellie Stockard and Maemae Anderson 5. Mallory Bullock, Angelica Vines, Maggie Ball, Virginia Cochran, Mary Whit Stoddard and Grace Belcher 6. Robert Stone and John Michael Yanosky 7. Olivia Stone and Ridley Tate Box 8. Collins McMurray and Riley McIntyre 9. Claire Pappalardo and Addie Kate Phillips 10. Rebecca Evans, Caroline Moore and Campbell Moore 11. Sirus Tuhmaseb, Erin Stephenson, Sue Willis and Erica Watson

78 December 2018/January 2019

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OUT & ABOUT

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EAT ROLL REBEL

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PHOTOS BY MALLORY BARRY

This kickball and cornhole tournament on Oct. 7 benefitted Vestavia Hills High School.

1. Bennett Elkins, Tricia Burris and Cate Elkins 2. Dana Aldeeb and Sophie Rose Lovett 3. Libby Jackson and Caroline Bass 4. Meg and Dorsey Roebuck 5. Laurie Forester and Josie Pelham

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6. Jules Faught and Sam Looney 7. Lindsey Watts and India Crawford 8. Tattoo art 9. Tait Hager and Kendall Evans 10. Maggie Nelson and Julia Stuckey

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OUT & ABOUT

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STORYBOOK 5K

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PHOTOS BY MALLORY BARRY

This themed fun run on Oct. 27 benefited Children’s Department of the Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest and was hosted by the Junior Board of the Vestavia Hills Library Foundation.

1. Allison, Harper, Landon and Jason Corbin 2. Luke and Dan Matteo 3. Parker Hogan and Randi Irby

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4. Jay Long and David Malone 5. Nathan and Daniel Xavier 6. Sophia and Mark Schaefer 7. Amanda and Oliver Soong 8. Pam and Ryan King 9. Kelly Powell and Chandler Moon 10. Nathan and Ashley Matteo 11. Carley and Denise Bivin

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82 December 2018/January 2019

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OUT & ABOUT

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2015

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2017

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She wants to make selling as fun as buying for you

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Do Your Holiday Shopping with us.

Complimentary Gift Wrapping + Extended Holiday Hours.

Follow us on instagram or Facebook @ TheDitsyDaisy for holiday events.

16383 US-280, Chelsea, AL 35043 (205)678-6166 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 83

OUT & ABOUT

2

1

HEIGHTS HEROES 5K

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PHOTOS BY ADRIANNE SMITH

Runners traversed the streets of Cahaba Heights while benefitting the Vestavia Elementary Cahaba Heights PTO at this Oct. 20 event.

1. Anna Lisa Pflaum, Katherine Hall, Clementine Atkinson and Maddie Usdan 2. Reese Hull, Mary Rivers Price, Kate Hull and Rivers Price 3. Allie Abbott and Evie Smith 4. Pierce Lysinger, Rodrigo Jurado and John Wilson Dorlon

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5. Catherine Kiser, Claire Swedenburg and Kate Patrick 6. Mark Rogers 7. Jana Rogers 8. William Culpepper 9. Kevin Witherington 10. Alicia Hunsberger

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86 December 2018/January 2019

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EOE Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Hiring: Homeownership LeasePurchase Facilitator Resident

Services Coordinator-ROSS Human Resources Specialist Compliance Data Analysis Application Data Entry Clerk Assistant Vice President ofHousing Operations Director of Public Safety Custodian View complete description and apply at www.habd.org or 1826 3rdAvenueSouth Birmingham, Al 35233 NOW AVAILABLE LPN’s, RN’s 12 HOUR SHIFTS CNA’s Full-time & part-time Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Center Drive Clanton, AL 35045 Helping Hands Estate Sales Serving clients over 7yrs Professional & Experienced We can help sell the contents of your home!

Contact for information: 256283-5549 tbob56.wixsite. com/helping-hands Wholesale and Logistics Facility, Alabaster Administrative Assistant Great Benefits MondayFriday 7:00-4:00 Excel exp. Required Logistics background a plus Call ( 205) 912-7204 www.hibbett.com Conveyor Mechanic Great Benefits Monday-Friday 7:00AM - 4:00PM Call (205)912-7204 ww.hibbett. com Road and Parking Lot Striping Company NOW HIRING LABORERS. Must be 18+ and have valid driver’s license. MondayFriday. BCBS/Paid Holidays/ Sick days/Vacation/401k.

Apply in person: 1110 Highway 31, Calera. 205663-1511

MARKETPLACE Does your loved one need help at home? Licensed, bonded, insured, affordable homecare offered. Approved Veteran Service Contractor & LTC Insurance accepted.

Live-in-Care Available. Call us today! 205-453-4285 Industrial Coatings Group, Inc. is hiring experienced sandblasters and industrial painters. Must be able to pass a drug test & E-verify check. Professional references required. Must be willing to travel. Please send resume to icgsecretary@ hotmail.com or call (205) 612-2064.

Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com Welders, Welding (MIG-TIG) Sheet Metal/ manufacturing helpers.

Multiple positions. Paid holidays, typical shifts are 6:30am-2:30pm plus Overtime. Must be reliable.

Tardiness and no-shows Will not be tolerated Call RICK: 205-644-9633 Need FREE help with your Medicare? Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) today at (800)AGE-LINE (800)-2435463.

M&M Trucking Company hiring experienced trailer and tractor trailer drivers.

Minimum three years verifiable experience required. Tanker and dump experience a plus. Apply in person w/MVR at M&M Trucking Company. 980 Lee Road. Auburn, AL 36830.

Now Hiring!! •CaregiversADL’s, assist with medications and some lifting 7am-3pm, 3pm-11pm, 11pm-7pm •Activity Director Part-Time •Cooks-some 12/ hr shifts Call Shay McNeal 205-620-2905 Marble Valley Manor.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm.

Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer

Are you a motivated professional? Are you looking for a dynamic career? Are you ready to control your own level of success? See why McKinnons’ is an exciting place to work and grow.

Now accepting applications for Sales, Service, and Detail Shop. Apply with the receptionist. 205-755-3430 Shake up your career!!!

Are you looking for something new and FUN? Milo’s is always looking for great managers to come join our growing and dynamic team. Apply online at miloshamburgers.com Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-389-4530. For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657 Production Jobs. Willing to Train. AAM in Columbiana is HIRING for multiple shifts.

Email resume to dcurtis@ grede.com or apply in person: 130 Industrial Pkwy, Columbiana, AL 35051 NOW HIRING Class-A CDL Driver Must have clean driving record, two years experience Will train drivers on tank Drivers home nightly Contact Keith at: 205-4384959 INDUSTRIAL CLEANING IN VANCE Requirements: •18 Years Old •HS Diploma/GED •Able to work variable shifts/ weekends/holidays •Able to lift up to 50lbs constantly, stand on your feet for 8hrs •Able to pass drug screen/ background check Complete your application on line at www.naonsite.com Production / Manufacturing Vance, Alabama Starting pay: $12.00 – $14.50 /hr. • Have 2 years+ Production/ Manufacturing experience.

• Have Recently Lived in Alabama at least 2 years.

• Have A High School Diploma or GED. • Are at least 18 years old. Complete your application on line at www.naonsite.com

Oxford Healthcare in Montgomery currently hiring certified CNA’s and/ or Home Health aides in the Clanton, Marbury and Maplesville areas. Must be able to pass complete background check, have reliable transportation and have a strong work ethic. Serious inquires only. Call 334-409-0035 or apply on-line at www.

Oxfordhealthcare.com Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately for Dump Trailer Hauling • $2000 Retention Bonus • Local Hauling • Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: www.perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC 251-470-0355 Move in Special! 3/2 Garden Home w/garage.

Dishwasher, Fenced backyard, Great Room w/ vaulted Ceiling. Calera Schools. Rent $1150. FLAT SCREEN TV!! (205)433-9811 Soon the Mark of the Beast Will Be Enforced.

Free Book & Bible Study.

PO Box 171 • Samantha, AL 35482 205-339-4837 The Bright Star Catering Company brightstarcatering. com 205-417-0805 •Book your Holiday Office Party!

Packages starting at $20/ person!! •Let us cook for you, order a Take & Bake Dinner Box for $150!!

Southeastern Food Merchandisers-Pelham Day-Shift: Sunday-Friday 40+ hours/week 9:00AM until finished (varies) Motivated Selectors earning as much as $27 or more per hour after training No cap on hourly rate 100% productivity based pay structure Benefits: • Medical • Vision • Dental • Vacation • 401k with company match Requirements: •Reading and math skills•Lift up to 60lbs, repetitively•Work in ambient temperatures Apply in person at: 8:30AM5:00PM Southeastern Food 201 Parker Drive Pelham,AL 35124 ofrye@ southeasternfood.com South Haven Health & Rehab, Hoover NOWHIRING!!! • LPN’s & RN’s - All Shifts - Shift Differential

-$3000 Sign on Bonus!!!! • Dietary Aide Apply in person or email: ken.holmes@ nhsmgt.com Immediate Positions!!!!

Positions needed: Warehouse • Sales Reps • Assistant Manager • Delivery Drivers • Customer Service.

Laid back atmosphere, good pay, plenty of hours available! Company vehicles to qualified individuals!

Call Andrew 9am-7pm • Mon-Sat at (205)490-1003 or (205)243-6337 Stellar Staffing, LLC Customer Service Is Our Passion NOW HIRING!!!

Pelham • Calera • Alabaster • Clanton Starting pay: $10hr-$13hr • General Labor • Heavy Equipment Operator • Machine Operator • Crane Operator Please apply on-line: www.stellarstaffingllc.com Questions Call: 205-9162860

TaylorMade Transportation Hiring CDL Drivers for Flatbed Regional Division!

BCBS Insurance After 30 Days. To apply call: (334)366-2269 or email: s.smith@taylormadeinc.com Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance. I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham. Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, local-based company in Pelham. Must be willing to learn & work hard.

Go to: supremeelectric-al. com Print employment application under Contact Us. Mail to: Supreme Electric 231 Commerce Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-453-9327.

NOW HIRING!!! • Cooks • Dishwashers • Hosts • Night Maintenance • Retail Sales • Servers Apply at: 655 Cahaba Valley Road Pelham, AL 35124 Or online: jobs.crackerbarrel.com Search:AL-PELHAM We are a drug-free workplace/EOE 4 BEDROOM LOG CABIN ON 32 ACRES- 328 CR 1055, Montevallo AL. •Bridlewood Farms gated community •3045 sq ft.- 4 bed, 3.5 bath, 3 levels.

•Hardwood flooring & countertops, wrap-around porch, barn door closets.

•2 fenced parcels on Mahan Creek •Detached garage with 3 shed roofs & workshop area, •Barn with 4 stalls, tack room, chicken

coop, outdoor run, aviary netting. •Walking/riding trails, babbling brook, fruit orchard trees & more! $650,000 • MLS#831144 View more details & request a showing: www. teamlehmanhouse.com Susan Lehman, Listing Specialist 205-542-4011

WCA • Roll Off Drivers needed for our Alpine, AL location. Class A or B CDL is required along with one (1) year of verifiable equivalent commercial truck driving experience. Must have a valid and safe driving record.

We offer competitive wages & a comprehensive benefits package which includes: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability, Paid Holidays and PTO. Please apply through our website at www.wcawaste.com EOE M/F/D/V WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: •Underground Miners •Electricians •Maintenance Foreman •Supervisors Apply online: www.warriormetcoal.com White Oak Transportation is hiring CDL-A drivers in your area. Great Pay! Excellent Benefits! Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans. com for more information EOE-M/F/D/V

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 87

MY VESTAVIA HILLS KARA KELLNER

Spoiled Rotten Photography Owner + Liberty Park Resident

Feeding Time

Lunch Al Fresco

Liberty Park Pond My family really enjoys feeding the ducks at the Liberty Park Pond. My 7-year-old Noah loves to ride the golf cart with a loaf of bread in hand.

Crestline Bagel + Leaf & Petal I like to order up chicken salad on a croissant and dine outside near the flowers. From time to time I change it up to the pepperoni pizza bagel.

Picture Perfect

Liberty Park Waterfall This spot is hidden gem...the perfect place for photographing a fall mini session for my photography business (spoiledrottenphotography. com/Birmingham). Even without a camera, it’s a peaceful place to reflect.

Play Time

The Learning Express My son Noah and I love to browse around in The Learning Express in Cahaba Heights. I always say, “We are not buying anything today,” but inevitably I end up spending money.

For a Sweet Treat

Ashley Mac’s Strawberry Cupcakes I always buy the six pack of these cupcakes thinking that I will share, but somehow I eat all six by myself.

88 December 2018/January 2019

M O D E R N N E W B O R N + C H I L D + FA M I LY P O R T R A I T U R E INFOAPEPPERMINTPHOTO.COM | 205.807.6431 H E I R LO O M A L B U M S | A R C H I VA L Q UA L I T Y P O R T R A I T S

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2279 VALLEYDALE RD #100 BIRMINGHAM