over the mountain journal may 20, 2012

OVER THE MOUNTAINJ O U R N A L

The Rivers family, from left: Rachel, Tom and Charon, hold a picture of Thomas Rivers Jr., who was killed while serving in Afghanistan two years ago. The family has started a non-profit, Support our Soldiers Alabama, to honor Thomas as well as help those serving overseas by sending care packages.

Photos by Daniel Taylor Photography

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

OTMJ.COM THURSDAY, MAY 17, 2012 VOL. 21 #8

BIRMINGHAM DANCE MARKS 50 YEARS P. 3 • CITY CELEBRATES ROYAL WEEKEND P. 16 • OTM SOCCER TEAMS BRING HOME STATE TITLES P. 36

BY LAURA MCALISTER

JOURNAL EDITOR

It’s been just over two years since their son and brother was killed in Afghanistan, but the Rivers family

is still diligently sending care packages overseas.

Now the packages are going to young Marines and other soldiers on active duty. The project started as a way for the family, parents Charon and Tom and daughter Rachel, to show support for those serving while also remembering Thomas E. Rivers Jr., who was killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) in Afghanistan on April 28, 2010.

Their support of those serving over-seas has grown in the last two years. In

January, Rachel and her parents formed a nonprofit, Support Our Soldiers Alabama, to help grow their efforts to support Marines and other U.S. soldiers and also encourage patriotism at home.

“It kind of started with my prelimi-nary pageants for Miss Alabama,” said Rachel, a 20-year-old student at the University of Alabama and Thomas’ younger sister. “You have to have a plat-form, and I wanted to do something for Thomas.”

The family packs the care packages from their Hoover home. They include just about anything they can think of the troops would want.

“It depends on if they’re on the front-

After Devastating Loss, Rivers Family Continues to Support Troops

See SUPPORT, page 8

INSIDE

A Salute to Their SonSuzanne Culbreth Alabama Teacher of the Year SCHOOL PAGE 29

Rising design star finalistplans a stylish careerFASHION PAGE 22

inside: Support our Soldiers will host its first fundraising event May 23. See page 8 for details.

Top chefs cook up a fundrais-er for cancer LIFE PAGE 12

Do Dah Day music festival and parade this weekendABOUT TOWN PAGE 5

Hands Up event honors Jimmie Hess SOCIAL PAGE 14

2 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALOPINION/CONTENTS

“No school! I’m going to go to friends’ houses, go to the pool and go to the beach.”

Jackson PageHomewood

“No school and getting to stay home.”

William HallHomewood

What are you looking forward to most about the summer?

“I’m going to (the University of) Alabama

to watch my brother play football.”

Nicholas McCoyHomewood

“We might get to go to Florida, my family. I like

to go swimming.”

Azariah KipchumbaHomewood

Covert Ice Cream Ops

OVER THE MOUNTAINJ O U R N A L May 17, 2012

Vol. 21, No. 10Over 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 [email protected]. E-mail our advertising department at [email protected]. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2012 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.

Publisher: Maury WaldEditor: Laura McAlister

Features Writer: Donna CorneliusOffice Manager: Christy Wald

Editorial Assistant: Stacie GalbraithSports: Lee Davis

Contributors: Susan Murphy, Bones Long, Cary Estes, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry

Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald

ABOUT TOWN 3PEOPLE 8 LIFE 12SOCIAL 14

FASHION 22WEDDINGS 28SCHOOLS 29SPORTS 36

Scroll through more pictures from the areas biggest and best parties. Share your news. Just hit the “Got News” button and fill in the form. Like us on Facebook to find out what’s going on at the Journal

After struggling with unexplained illnesses since she was 6 years old Laura Matthews, Mountain Brook High senior, is finally getting better and ready to go to college to study to become a pharmacist. See page 13.

Get ideas from one of the areas up and coming designers on how to decorate your vacation home.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

IN THIS ISSUE

ON OTMJ.COM

GET TO KNOW ...

COMING MAY 31

MURPHY’S LAW

I’m currently in negotiations with my metabolism. It has slowed down considerably over the years,

and I’m trying to convince it to rally and get back in the game. I’m saying, “How about giving me a buy on that scoop of ice cream?” My metabolism is saying, “How about giving me a couple more sit-ups?”

The problem is, we’ve been down this road before. I give in and add extra exercise, but the extra never lasts. My concessional squat-thrusts burn suf-ficient calories at the onset, but after a few short weeks, my metabolism goes behind my aching back and figures out how to complete these movements with the least amount of energy pos-sible. If I was auditioning for “Survivor: Kookamonga” that would be a good thing, but here in suburbia that’s no help at all.

Case in point: I’ve been walking my neighborhood for years. At first, a sim-ple loop around the immediate asphalt kept me ahead of my Rocky Road, but gradually I had to add more steps, more streets to stay even, until I got to the point where I would have had to walk to Sylacauga to work off a single scoop cone.

I switched my steps to the treadmill where I could ramp up the speed and the incline. Again, good for a while and then, not so much. I moved to the stair stepper, the stationary bike, the elliptical, each requiring more effort, each real-izing more calories burned. In the end, however, I netted the same amount of ice cream.

Perhaps a change of venue. I started swimming, a strenuous high calorie activity, but my body figured that out, too. More laps and more laps, same number of ice cream licks. Last week, I tried out a low-impact dance exercise class which was great fun, with music from

boogie to Bollywood and props no less, but my body knows all about my dance moves, so the advantage can’t last long.

Since my open good faith negotia-tions have failed, I’ve turned to covert ops to keep my metabolism off guard. The idea, it would seem, is to bob when it thinks I will weave, zig when it thinks I will zag, grab a few hundred calories and sneak out undetected.

Since my metabolism is onto all of my walking/swimming/dancing tricks, I’ll have to come in from a different angle. I’ve never been a sports enthu-siast, so there are a lot of activities off my metabolic radar. I could ski, but I don’t like the cold. Spelunking? Nope.

Afraid of caves. Sky diving? No desire to splat on one of those rooftops that says “See Rock City.”

Badminton, bocce, tossing of the caber in the Highland Games? Hurling, jai alai, a few runs with Harold down the two-man luge? None of it’s likely. I could try bowling again, but really, I’m the world’s worst. I walk up, fling my wienie-weight ball directly into the gut-ter, then head to the snack bar.

I don’t fare any better on those fake climbing walls, either. It’s humiliat-ing, hanging there all trussed up in that official-looking gear like a Christmas turkey. I pull with my arms, I push with my legs and I’m still hovering only a few feet off the ground. Unless being red-faced embarrassed burns calories, I don’t think rock climbing’s my answer.

It seems no matter what I do, my body still has my number, and it’s not high enough to keep the numbers on the scale from inching upward. Now, I know what you’re saying. “If you’d just give up the ice cream, you wouldn’t have to worry about all this.”

Thanks. You sound just like my metabolism. ❖

Sue Murphy

Last week, I tried out a low-impact dance exercise

class which was great fun, with

music from boogie to Bollywood and props no less, but my body knows all

about my dance moves, so the

advantage can’t last long.

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 3OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL ABOUT TOWN

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BY LAURA MCALISTER

JOURNAL EDITOR

After 50 years in business, its name and venues have changed, but its mission and goal haven’t.

This year, Birmingham Dance Theatre, Inc. will celebrate its 50th anniversary. While owner Joni Scofield said lots has changed since her mother started teaching in 1962, their biggest joy

is still making a difference in their students’ lives.

“That’s really my phi-losophy,” said Joni, who has been teaching dance for some 40 years. “It’s really about having made a difference in the life of a child. It’s not winning a com-

petition. It’s about teaching them life lessons.“You can’t put a price tag on a trophy, but you

can say you learned time management and respon-sibility from dance.”

Birmingham Dance Theatre will mark its anniversary with a recital and reunion May 26 at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex Children’s Theatre. Not only will current students

be performing, but several of the studio’s alumni – some who haven’t danced in years, Joni said – will participate, too.

A small group of alumni has been getting together for several years to recap an old routine, but Joni said the May 26 anniversary recital and celebration will be a larger production to com-memorate BDT’s five decades of dance.

Over the years, she said, many of the danc-ers who’ve come through the studio really have become like family, and now they are seeing sec-ond and even third generations at the studio.

It was family, and still is, said Joni, that got the studio started in the first place.

Joni’s mother, Nora Nash, founded the studio. Nora first began teaching at Miss Beverly’s

Dance Studio in Midfield in 1962. Then she went out on her own in 1966 and opened Nora Nash Dance Studio.

“When Mom was a little girl, she would always go to the Mickey Mouse Club every Saturday out at the Alabama Theatre,” Joni said. “That sparked her love for dancing, and she took tap – she’s a tapper – from Jack Saxon, and at some point she decided to start teaching.”

Nora Nash Dance Studio was in Vinesville from 1966-71 and then moved to Central Park until 1974 before moving to Vestavia Hills. It was located on Park South Place until 2001, when it moved into its current location at 100 Olde Towne Road in Vestavia Hills.

Joni grew up in the business, though she didn’t determine until high school that teaching with her mother was where she wanted to be. She went to the University of Alabama at Birmingham to get her degree in dance. While she didn’t finish that, she did get a degree in business. After graduation she was teaching full time, and her mother was

also operating a nearby costume store, Costume Creations.

In 1984, Joni took over the family business and officially changed the name to Birmingham Dance Theatre.

Around the same time Joni took over, the stu-dio got involved in dance competitions.

“We were one of the first in Birmingham to do that,” Joni said. “That became something huge. We thought we were good back then, but we’ve really taken it to the next level.”

Some talented dancers have also made their way through BDT over the years. About 10 Alabama Junior Miss winners were students of BDT, and the 2001 Miss America Junior Miss Carrie Colvin is a former student. Joni said another student, Robert Hoffman, was named Mr. Dance of America and made an appearance on “Beverly Hills 90210” as well as other sitcoms and movies.

Joni’s sister Sandy Coker also taught at BDT, as did Sandy’s daughter Lindsay Coker Corley. Joni’s own daughters, Ally Nora and McCall, are students at the University of Alabama but are also involved with the studio. Joni suspects they’ll be more involved once they graduate.

Although much has changed since Joni’s moth-er began teaching some 50 years ago, much has truly stayed the same. BDT remains a family busi-ness, and while now they offer classes to toddlers and have added hip hop dance, they also still have the classics, like ballet, pointe and tap.

“It’s really just been so much fun,” Joni said. “Through the years, we’ve probably had about 10,000 students. I have a lot of former students come back and say, ‘Oh I had you.’ Some are coming back with their children.

“I’ve had some of them tell me I’ve mellowed a lot. Maybe I need to work on getting my edge back.” ❖

Dancing Through the DecadesBDT Celebrates

50 YearsThree genera-tions make up Birmingham Dance Theatre, Inc. They are front row, from left: Elizabeth Nash, Nora Ivy Nash and Katie Grace Nash. Back: Lindsay Coker Corley, Sandy Nash Coker, Ally Nora Scofield, Joni Nash Scofield and McCall Ivy Scofield Photo special to the Journal

BDT Recital BDT will celebrate 50 years with a recital May 26 at the BJCC Children’s Theatre.1 p.m.: Matinee-Celebrating 50 Years of Dance!5 p.m.: Willie Wonka-Ballet Production6:10 p.m.: Alumni Reception in Lobby7:30 p.m.: Showcase-Celebrating 50 Years of Creativity!

4 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALABOUT TOWN

BIRMINGHAMWild for a CureMay 18, 6:30 p.m.The Club

The Alabama Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International presents the 11th annual Night of Hope Gala, Wild for a Cure. The evening includes cocktails and a silent auction. Gala Committee chairmen are Paget Pizitz and Lynne Petro. The Living and Giving Honoree is Jim Richardson; Corporate Honoree is Bradley, Arant, Boult and Cummings. Special guest speaker is Kendall Simmons, former Auburn University offensive lineman and two-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers. For more information, visit www.jdrfalabama.org.

BIRMINGHAMHats Off!May 19, 1 p.m.Cahaba Grand Conference Center

Grace House Ministries, Inc., will host its 13th annual “Hats Off!” event to honor those who continue to serve the community and the girls who call Grace House their home. The fundraising luncheon will take place from 1-3 p.m. Grace House is a nonprofit organization that provides safe and loving homes for girls who have been abused or neglected and cannot live at home. Proceeds from this banquet will directly support the mission of Grace House Ministries and are tax-deductible. This year’s luncheon will feature several guest appearances including keynote speaker Victoria Rowell from television soap opera “Young and the Restless.” CBS 42 news anchor Sherri Jackson will serve as the mistress of ceremony. Also, there will be a musical performance featuring recording artist Jillian Everett. Grace House Founder Lois Coleman, affectionately known as Mama Lois, will honor this year’s Legacy Award recipients, Addie Pugh and Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Tickets are $75 for adults and $40 for children. There are also various levels of sponsorship for the event. Visit www.grace-house.org or call (205)-786-4663 for more information.

CAHABA HEIGHTSCaring for Cahaba HeightsMay 19, 9 a.m.Cahaba Heights Elementary School

Caring for Cahaba Heights is a

service project in remembrance of the storms of April 27 that devastated the Vestavia Hills community. The event will have service projects including yard work, planting and painting and will end at noon with a picnic and music. It’s being sponsored by Brookwood Baptist Church, Cahaba Heights Baptist Church, Mountain Brook Community Church, St. Stephens Episcopal Church, Trinity Presbyterian Church and Cahaba Heights Elementary School.

BIRMINGHAMThe Main EventMay 19, 7:30 p.m.3205 2nd Ave. South

Tickets are $75 for this fundraiser benefiting the Levite Jewish Community Center, American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. Included are cocktails, dining, music, a silent auction, special guest appearances and commentary and boxing. The Juarez Boxers and special guest former Gov. Don Siegelman will take to the ring and show off their skills. Women can show their support for AHA by wearing red. Black tie is optional. For more information, visit www.bhamjcc.org.

MOUNTAIN BROOKEvening of WinesMay 20, 5:30 p.m.Country Club of Birmingham

The Alabama-Mississippi chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society hosts Alabama’s oldest wine auction. Before dinner, guests can visit with honorary chairman Chuck Wagner, owner and winemaker of Caymus Vineyard in Napa Valley, Calif. The event includes an auction. For more information, call Andrew Bell, chapter vice president, at 879-8546.

BIRMINGHAM/VESTAVIA HILLSOpera Birmingham Vocal Competition and GalaMay 19-20UAB Hulsey Hall, VCC

Twenty aspiring young singers from across the country, chosen from more than 100 applicants, will compete May 19-20 for more than $12,000 in cash prizes and a chance to sing Opera Birmingham’s “Catch a Rising Star” concert in the fall. The semi-finals of Opera Birmingham’s 2012 Vocal Competition will be on May 19 at UAB’s Hulsey Hall. The morning session of the semi-finals competition

is from 10:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m. The afternoon session is 1:10 p.m. -2:20 p.m. General admission tickets are $20 at the door. Season ticket holders are admitted free of charge and are still available by calling Opera Birmingham at 322-6737. “Opera Idol 2012,” the gala dinner and finals of the 34th Annual Opera Birmingham Vocal Competition will be May 20 at Vestavia Country Club. The evening will commence with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. A concert of the finalists begins at 6:30 p.m. with dinner immediately following. Tickets are $175 per person ($100 per person is tax deductible) or a Patron Table of eight for $1,500. Black tie attire is optional. Advanced reservations are required. Reserve your place by calling 322-6737.

HOOVERBirmingham Boys Choir Spring ConcertMay 20, 4 p.m.

Shades Crest Baptist ChurchThe Choristers of the Birmingham

Boys Choir will present this 34th annual concert featuring the Junior Choristers, Senior Choristers and Continuo Chorister of the BBC. Admission is free. To audition for the group’s 2012-13 concert season, visit www.birminghamboyschoir.com or email Ken Berg, music director at [email protected]

HOOVERC.S. Lewis OnstageMay 20, 2:30 p.m.Hoover Library Theatre

The Seasoned Performers will present a one time-only performance of “C.S. Lewis Onstage” by Birmingham native Tom Key. Eight works by Lewis form Key’s adaptation, a performance he has honed over 20 years in venues including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. and the Shaldonean Theater at Oxford University, England, at the invitation of Lewis’ stepson, Douglas Gresham. After the performance, the Seasoned Performers will host a reception honoring Key at a private English manor-style home in Ross Bridge, where patrons may meet and chat with him. The reception will feature British pub fare and beverages. Tickets are $50 for the play and an additional $25 for the reception. For tickets, call 444-7888.

English Village Merchants and the American Cancer Society are hosting It Takes a Village to support the upcoming Hope Gala. Participating merchants will be having special offers throughout the day. Photo special to the Journal

SHOPPING FOR HOPEMOUNTAIN BROOKIt Takes a VillageMay 18, All dayEnglish Village

The American Cancer Society and English Village are teaming up to host It Takes a Village to support the upcoming Hope Gala. Participating merchants in English Village will have special sales or will donate a portion of their sales that day to the Hope Gala, an American Cancer Society event set for Aug. 25. Visit www.welcometomountainbrook.com for a list of special activities and sales. For information on the Hope Gala, call 930-8860. ❖

Save the Date

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 5 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL ABOUT TOWN

HOMEWOODPierre Bensusan LiveMay 20, 3 p.m.Virginia Samford Theatre

Bensusan is an internationally acclaimed fingerstyle guitarist and composer whose music is often characterized as Celtic, folk,new age or chamber jazz. Tickets are $20; call 251-1206 or visit http://www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org/season.php.

BIRMINGHAMBoomers RxRMay 26, 5 p.m.Railroad Park

Eastview Healthcare Center will host a free concert for the baby boomer generation from 5-8 p.m. featuring living entertainment by Gritz and Jelly Butter. For more information email [email protected].

BIRMINGHAMMagic City BrewfestJune 1, 7 p.m.; June 2, 4 p.m.Sloss Furnaces

Free the Hops! presents this weekend dedicated to learning about craft beer and sampling the best Alabama has to offer. More than 200 individual beers will be available for tasting, including many rare, specialty and cask ales never before seen in Alabama. Music will be provided by

Red Mountain and The Dozens on Friday and by the Old Paints and India Ramsey Saturday. Tickets are $33 in advance or $39 at the gate. VIP tickets are $89. For more information, visit www.magiccitybrewfest.com.

HOMEWOODFaces of Lupus UnveiledJune 2, 6:30 p.m.Aloft

This annual fundraising gala

supports the Lupus Foundation of America and LifeVision Enrichment Network, Inc. It includes a cocktail reception, music Mardi Gras masked theme with the unveiling of two faces of lupus, Cajun hors d’oeuvres, dessert buffet, entry into an hourly raffle, a prize for the most elegant mask, gift bag and more. Mistress of ceremonies is Chandra Kendall. Keynote speaker is Dr. Robert P. Kimberly, UAB professor of medicine and Howard

To: From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: May

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the May 17, 2012 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date,

your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

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Attending last year’s Do Dah Day were Sara Morrow and her dog Bailey. Photo special to the Journal

FOR DOGS AND THEIR PEOPLEBIRMINGHAMDo Dah DayMay 19, 11:01 a.m.Caldwell and Rhodes Parks

This free music festival and parade raises money for homeless animals. The parade, beginning at 11:01 a.m., winds along Highland Avenue. Bands begin playing at noon. Bring your dog, cat, lizard, llama or other friendly animal and enjoy the music, sights, concessions, merchandise and more. Do Dah Eve, the festival kick-off, is May 18 at Nana Funks in Birmingham’s Lake View district. Visit www.dodahday.org or follow on Facebook groups: Do Dah Day for more information. ❖

6 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALABOUT TOWN

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L. Holley Research chairman of rheumatology. Admission is $30; tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information or to buy tickets, visit facesoflupusunveiled.eventbrite.com

BIRMINGHAM2012 Life Inspiration AwardsJune 5, 5:30 p.m.The Club

American Cancer Society volunteers are planning this event, held annually to celebrate survivorship, caregivers and medical professionals fighting cancer. The Caregiver award is given to someone who stood alongside their loved one throughout his or her battle. The Life-Saver award recognizes health professionals. Bobby Humphrey, former University of Alabama football player, is the keynote speaker. For more information visit www.lifeinspirationawards.org or call (205) 930-8879.

CHELSEAWeight Management CampJune 3-20Camp Hargis YMCA

Register now for this third annual overnight weight management camp. Camp SHINE educates at-risk or obese children about healthy lifestyle habits and to jumpstart weight loss through fun activities and a healthy

diet. The camp also serves as a resource to parents who want to help their children maintain a healthier lifestyle. Camp SHINE will include cooking lessons, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, field trips, canoeing, dancing, hiking and many more kid-friendly activities. All camp counselors are affiliated with the William A. Daniel Adolescent Health Center, a joint initiative between Children’s and UAB. The program is coordinated by UAB physicians. Registration is $600; some scholarships are available. Applications must be submitted by April 15. For more information about the camp or to register, visit http://weight.childrensal.org.

BIRMINGHAMAn Acoustic Evening with Jason IsbellJune 16, 7:30 p.m.Alys Stephens Center

This is the first show in the “GoodSongsGoodPeople” series presented by UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, Good People Brewing Co. and Birmingham Mountain Radio. The special series for music lovers, which focuses on songwriting, will spotlight three artists; the next two artists in the series will be announced later. The show will be in the center’s “On Stage” format, which turns the traditional concert hall around so patrons can

be closer to the artist. Tickets are $29.50 plus a $2 restoration fee. Guests can arrive at 6:30 for a cocktail hour with a cash bar featuring Good People’s finest craft brews and food and snacks from Birmingham eateries. For this series, patrons can purchase a theater-friendly commemorative cup and take their drinks into the show. Call 975-2787 or visit www.AlysStephens.org for tickets or for more information.

MOUNTAIN BROOKS-M-ART CampJune 25-29Mountain Brook Elementary

Three Mountain Brook Elementary teachers are teaming up to host S-M-ART Camp (Spanish, Music and Art). Spanish teacher Sara-Kathryn Bates, music teacher Shari Dorsett and art teacher Kendra Haddock will lead the camp, which runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day, for all incoming kindergarten-third grade students in Mountain Brook. Activities include artistic creations, musical productions, Spanish language crafts, a trip to Davenport’s for lunch on Thursday and more. The camp ends Friday with an artistic, musical and Spanish presentation for parents. Cost is $255, which includes a camp T-shirt, snacks and bottled water, lunch at Davenport’s and supplies. ❖

Getting ready for the Emmet OʼNeal Libraryʼs Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival are, front row from left: Bentley Carroll, Will Langley, Camille Emblom, Haston Emblom, Ella Emblom, Lawton Emblom, Patton Browning, Sam Carroll and Abbott Browning. Back: : Charlotte Langley, JWC of 100 president; Kacy Carroll, carnival co-chair, with Luke Carroll; Anna Emblom, carnival co-chair; and Dianna Browning, JWC of 100 vice president.

SUMMER READING FUNMOUNTAIN BROOKSummer Reading Kickoff CarnivalMay 20, 2:30 p.m.Emmet O’Neal Library

The Junior Women’s Committee of 100 sponsors this carnival to kick off the library’s Summer Reading program. The event starts at 2:30 p.m. with the annual Thomas Hughes Brinkley Memorial Fun Run. The outdoor carnival from 3-5 p.m. features game and craft booths, concessions and a train ride. During the carnival, librarians will be on hand to register readers of all ages for the Summer Reading program. DJs from the Boosterthon will be there, too. Tickets and registration for kickoff events are available now. All other Summer Reading programs and activities begin May 29. For more information, call 879-0497 or visit www.eolib.org. ❖

Save the Date Continued

Attending last yearʼs Bark and Wine event were Shena Birdsong and Tammy McCarty.

Photo special to the

Journal

WINE WITH FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDSNORTH SHELBY COUNTYBark and WineJune 16, 6 p.m.Eagle Point Golf Club

Goods and services from donors will be auctioned off in live and silent auctions at this event hosted by the Shelby Humane Society. Tickets are $40 per person or $60 per couple; visit www.barkandwine.eventbrite.com. Net proceeds benefit programs and pets of Shelby Humane Society. ❖

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 7 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl PeoPle

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Carden Joins Trinity UMCThe Rev. Nathan Carden has been

appointed associate pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church in Homewood, effective June 17.

He will be responsible for Trinity’s Contact contemporary worship service and Outreach.

He succeeds Dr. Dave Barnhart, who has been appointed to start a new United Methodist congregation in the Birmingham area.

Carden, a native of Waycross, Ga., comes to Trinity from First United Methodist Church in Pell City, where he has led the contemporary service since 2010. He also served on the Christian education staff of First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Fla.

He has a bachelor’s degree and master of theology degree from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville and a master of divinity degree from Vanderbilt Divinity School.

Arthritis Foundation Names Council

The Arthritis Foundation’s Birmingham office recently announced the 2012 Leadership Council for Central

Alabama.The leadership group works with

fellow volunteers and staff to implement the Arthritis Foundation’s work in Birmingham and surrounding areas.

This year’s members are: Copeland Wood, Wood Fruitticher, chairman; Amy Anzalone, Colonial Properties Trust; Prescott Atkinson, M.D., Ph.D., UAB Department of Medicine; Lou Bridges, M.D., Ph.D., UAB Rheumatology; Nathan Clark, ADAMS Advisory Services; Cleo Clency, AquaServices LLC; Kim Cochran, Pfizer; Geoffrey Connor, M.D., D1 Sports Medicine;

John Cooper, Sirote & Permutt, PC; Franklin Danley, Regions Bank; Sandi Falkenhagen, community volunteer; David Forrestall, Securit 360; Bob

Holman, Signature Homes; Greg King, Iberia Bank; Carol McCoy, Torchmark Corporation; Hillary Norris, Ph.D., UCB; Jenni Parker, Regions Bank;

Hank Patterson, Wells Fargo; Mary Kay Pickering, Bryant Bank; Kimberly Till Powell, Balch & Bingham; Kim Smith, community volunteer; Helen Todd, HealthSouth; Jerry Tracey, WVTM TV NBC-13; Anthony Turkiewicz, M.D., Rheumatology Associates; Peter Weiser, M.D., Ph.D., Children’s/UAB Division of Pediatric Rheumatology; and Karen Willette, St. Vincent’s Health System.

Three Birmingham area volunteers serve on the Southeast Region Board of Directors. They are Randal Q. Cron, M.D., Ph.D., UAB Division of Pediatric

Rheumatology; Dexanne B. Clohan, HealthSouth Corp.; and Brunson White, Energen.

John B. Sweeney has recently joined the Arthritis Foundation as the Central Alabama Regional Development and

Services director. Before joining the Arthritis

Foundation, Sweeney worked with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Alabama and Georgia and with American Red Cross Biomedical Services. ❖

People Notes

To: ChadFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: May

This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the May 17, 2012 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.


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line or on base,” Rachel said.For those serving on the front-

line, they send necessities such as hand wipes, shoestrings, socks, T-shirts and, depending on the time of year, hand and feet warmers. When it comes to those stationed at bases, they send items like sports equipment, magazines, cards and books.

No matter where the packages are going, all include Thomas’ story, which wouldn’t be complete with-out some Scripture as well.

Thomas was a graduate of Briarwood Christian School. Though academics really weren’t his strong suit, the Marines cer-tainly were. In fact, his parents say there is nothing else he ever wanted to do.

“In the ninth grade he wrote a paper about why he wanted to be a Marine,” Charon said. “The Marines was just for him. He was quite dif-ferent there than in high school.”

While Thomas struggled in school, he excelled in the Marines. In his ninth grade paper, he said, “I believe joining the Marines would be a good experience for me because it will teach me to rely on God to make it through.”

He joined the Marines after he graduated in 2007 and was deployed to Iraq in 2008.

The young man described by his family as “quite the character”

would return home, but the second deployment would prove different.

Thomas left for Afghanistan in March 2010. Charon said she had a bad feeling the day he left. Thomas’ phone calls from the frontlines didn’t help ease her worry.

“It just didn’t feel right,” Charon said. “When we would get calls, he was always very serious. We knew he was in a bad area.”

While Tom said Thomas had his fun side – he cites several YouTube videos as examples – he said the day of his son’s death really shows the Christian and man Thomas had grown to be.

Thomas was a patrol leader on what would become his last mis-sion. The Marine assigned to stay on watch was “exhausted,” Charon said. Thomas volunteered to take his watch, though as a leader he wasn’t required to do so.

It was on that watch that Thomas was killed by an IED.

His parents received the news early the morning of April 28.

“Tom was going to get coffee when he saw the Marines coming up to the house,” Charon said. “He told me to put on my robe, and I just crumbled. They didn’t have to say anything.”

The news was heartbreaking for the Rivers family, but they couldn’t be prouder of the stories they heard about their son after his death.

“The night before, he was studying the book of John,” Tom said. “The verse was talking about expressing love. When his friend was tired, Thomas took over. He was a Marine’s Marine, but he always kept his faith.”

The Rivers family now smiles when they think of Thomas and his life. They remember the fun-loving character, as well as the Marine, and especially the Christian he was.

They hope Support Our Soldiers Alabama will spread Thomas’ love for country and God. Charon said they aren’t pushing their Christian messages in the care packages sent overseas, “but it’s there for those who need it,” she said.

Each care package costs about $20-25 plus postage. Support Our Soldiers sends about 40 pack-ages a month now, though Charon said she’d love to see that amount increase.

For more information about Support Our Soldiers Alabama and how to help, visit www.supportour-soldiersalabama.org. ❖

8 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlCover Story

To: PattiFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: Sept.

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Oct. 6, 2011 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





To: [email protected]: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: May 2012

This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the feb. 10, 2011 issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

please initial and fax back within 24 hours.


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Support our Soldiers to Host 1st Fundraiser

Support our Soldiers Alabama will host its first fundraiser Memorial Day week.

The family suspected the event would be a small, church get-together to raise funds for the organization, Charon Rivers said, but it’s turned into much more.

The fundraiser will be May 23 at 6 p.m. at Briarwood Presbyterian Fellowship Hall. The keynote speaker is Gov. Robert Bentley.

The Memorial Day dinner will include barbecue catered by Shane’s Rib Shack. Tickets are $25 per person. All funds raised will go to purchase and deliver care packages to troops serving overseas.

For more information, visit www.supportoursoldiersalabama.org.

Charon Rivers grieves at the gravesite of her son, Marine Lance Corporal Thomas Rivers Jr. Thomas was killed in service in Afghanistan. Photo special to the Journal

Marine Lance Corporal Thomas Rivers Jr.

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 9 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl PeoPle

Davidson Is Page in State Legislature

Joseph Davidson, a Mountain Brook High School sophomore, had the opportunity to meet Gov. Robert Bentley when Davidson served as a page with the Alabama Legislature earlier this year.

The page program offers young people ages 12-18 the opportunity to participate in the legislative process as they assist each house of the legislature during its sessions.

The duties of a page are varied but normally consist of assisting the members of the house and senate and certain staff members by performing errands on the floor of each house and during committee meetings.

Davidson, who was sponsored by Rep. Paul DeMarco, had to go through an application process to become a page.

Page Becomes Eagle Scout

Ross Page of Homewood has been awarded the rank of Eagle Scout. He is a member of Troop 97 at Trinity United Methodist Church.

For his Eagle Scout leadership project, Page built an archery pavilion at Camp Dawson in Calera. The project created a safe and sheltered environment for the more than 600 campers who will use it every summer during day camp and throughout the year.

He raised more than $1,500 for the

project and donated the remaining funds to Camp Dawson. More than 130 hours of service went into the project.

Page began scouting in first grade as a member of Pack 397. As a member of Troop 97, he earned 30 merit badges and had 60 nights of

camping. He served as assistant patrol leader, den chief and troop guide.

His scouting experiences include hiking the Appalachian Trail, Sea Base sailing in the Florida Keys and hiking more than 80 miles during a 10-day backpacking expedition at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

Page is a senior at Homewood High School, where he is a member of the marching band, The Network show choir and Beta Club. He is also an active member of Dawson Memorial Baptist Church youth group.

Page is the son of Suzanne and John Page of Homewood. He is the grandson of Millie Page of Tuscaloosa, Joyce and John Allan of McCalla and the late James Page.

Landmarks Group Forms Junior Board

Birmingham Landmarks Inc. recently announced its newly-formed junior board.

The group will build awareness and support among younger adults for the preservation of the Alabama and Lyric Theatres and for the performing arts in Birmingham.

The Junior Board plans to raise awareness and financial support for the theatres, hold events at least annually to educate the public on efforts of Birmingham Landmarks, foster communication between Birmingham Landmarks within the community and encourage members of the community to contribute their

time, talents and financial resources to the continued enhancement of the Historic Alabama and Lyric Theatres.

Executive board members are: Greg Wingo, president; Jeff Vreeland, vice president; Betsy Spurgeon, treasurer, Whitney Collins, secretary; and Christy Turnipseed, social chairman.

Members are: Alana Crowe, Ali Sansing, Allie Ellis, Amber Payne, Angie Cleland, Anna Catherine Robertson, Bill Lawrence, Caitlin

Justice, Chris Miller, Erin Ramsey, Glenny Brock, James Little, Jessica Cannon, Jessica Hannah, Jonathan Wise, Katy Smith, Kim McGuire, Leslie Cooper, Mark Herron, Maurine Evans, Stephen Wadsworth, Tara McCafferty, Whitney Hembree, Whitney Polstra and Thomas Walker.

For more information, contact Jessica Cannon at [email protected] or Greg Wingo at [email protected]. ❖

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While serving as a page in the Alabama Legislature, Joseph Davidson, cen-ter, met Gov. Robert Bentley, left, and Rep. Paul DeMarco. Photo special to the Journal

Ross Page

MBE Student Wins Mutton Busting Contest

Christian Glenos, 7, of Mountain Brook won first place in the Mutton Busting contest at the Dubois Rodeo in Dubois, Wyo. during the summer.

He entered the contest while vacationing with his family at the Triangle C Ranch. He secured first place and a cash prize of $40 by riding a big horn sheep through the arena without being bucked off. The other dozen or so contestants were unable to hold on for the minimum 8 seconds, while Christian exceeded this limit and stayed atop the big horn sheep until riding safely into the arms of rodeo officials.

Upon returning home, Rep. Paul DeMarco passed a resolution before the Alabama House of Representatives, HIR242, commending Christian for Outstanding Achievement.

Christian attends first grade at Mountain Brook Elementary and is the son of Chris and Amy Glenos.

Christian’s sister, Sophia Glenos, 5, competed in the stick pony race at the Dubois Rodeo, and hopes to enter the Mutton Busting contest in the future.

Turkish-American Groups Honor Attorney

The Assembly of Turkish American Associations of Washington, D.C., the Federation of Turkish American Associations of New York and the Turkish American Community Center of Maryland awarded Birmingham attorney Orrin Ford the Excellence in Grassroots Leadership Award at their joint annual convention in Washington, D.C., April 13.

The award was presented by His

Excellency Namik Tan, ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the U.S., at a reception held at the ambassador’s residence. More than 250 Turkish Americans from around the U.S. attended.

Ford is a founding director of the Turkish American Association of Alabama, member of the Assembly of Turkish American Associations, director of Birmingham International Center and the International Services Council of Alabama and member of the Advocacy Committee of the National Council for International Visitors in Washington, D.C.

Ford is married to Peggy Bonfield.The award recognizes Ford’s service

to the Turkish American community in Alabama and throughout the U.S. and his advocacy for the Republic of Turkey and its relationship with the U.S. ❖

10 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlPeoPle

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Attorney Orrin Ford, third from left, won a national award from several Turkish-American organizations. At a reception in his honor were, from left: Ergun Kirlikovali, president, Assembly of Turkish American Associations; Ali Cinar, president, Federation of Turkish American Associations; Peggy Bonfield, Ford’s wife; H.E. Namik Tan, ambassador from Turkey to the U.S., and wife Fugen Tan; and Gunay Evinch, past president, ATAA. Photo special to the Journal

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 11OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL PEOPLE

Westmoreland Is Sizemore Award Winner

Samford University senior Riley Westmoreland of Vestavia Hills received one of the university’s top awards during the annual service and leadership convocation April 26 at the school.

Westmoreland received the James M. Sizemore Award as the student in the senior class who best demonstrates character, personality, scholarship and unselfish service to Samford.

She was cited for her extensive service to the university during the past four years, including leadership roles in Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, the Student Recruitment Team, Freshman Forum,

Student Activities and the Student Government Association executive board. As SGA president during 2011-12, she has been the student body’s primary representative to the university administration.

A political science/journalism and mass communication major, she is the daughter of Dr. Jeanna and Dr. Andrew Westmoreland. She is a graduate of Spain Park High School.

Landmarks Group Forms Junior Board

Birmingham Landmarks Inc. recently announced its newly-formed junior board.

The group will build awareness and support among younger adults for the preservation of the Alabama and Lyric Theatres and for the performing arts in Birmingham.

The Junior Board plans to raise awareness and financial support for the theatres, hold events at least annually to educate the public on efforts of Birmingham Landmarks, foster communication between Birmingham Landmarks within the community and encourage members of the community to contribute their time, talents and financial resources to the continued enhancement of the Historic Alabama and Lyric Theatres.

Executive board members are: Greg Wingo, president; Jeff Vreeland, vice president; Betsy Spurgeon, treasurer, Whitney Collins, secretary; and Christy Turnipseed, social chairman.

Members are: Alana Crowe, Ali Sansing, Allie Ellis, Amber Payne, Angie Cleland, Anna Catherine

Robertson, Bill Lawrence, Caitlin Justice, Chris Miller, Erin Ramsey, Glenny Brock, James Little, Jessica Cannon, Jessica Hannah, Jonathan Wise, Katy Smith, Kim McGuire, Leslie Cooper, Mark Herron, Maurine Evans, Stephen Wadsworth, Tara McCafferty, Whitney Hembree, Whitney Polstra and Thomas Walker.

For more information, contact Jessica Cannon at [email protected] or Greg Wingo at [email protected].

Calhoun Will Chair MS Leadership Class

Meredith Calhoun of Homewood has been named 2012 chairman for the Birmingham MS Leadership Class of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Alabama-Mississippi chapter.

She is vice president of Brokerage and Corporate Oversight for Corporate Realty companies.

The Birmingham MS Leadership Class is an honorary group of Birmingham area professionals who are recognized for outstanding contributions to their professions and the community. Class members raise funds to support programs serving people living with MS. ❖

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Samford University senior Riley Westmoreland won the schoolʼs Sizemore Award. Photo special to the Journal

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12 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlLifeChefs Cook Up Fundraiser

By Laura McaLister

Journal EdiTor

Ever dreamed about having Birmingham’s best chefs preparing a meal together under one roof?

it’ll be happening soon. and perhaps even better than the food that’s promised to be served up is the cause it’s benefit-ing.

The Birmingham originals and the north Central alabama Susan G. Komen for the Cure are teaming up to host the first Chefs for the Cure event June 21 at The Summit Club.

Participating chefs include the recent James Beard winner for Best Chef in the South, Chris Hastings from Hot and Hot Fish Club, Clif Holt from little Savannah, Haller Magee from Satterfield’s, antony osborne from Culinard, Tasos Touloupis from Ted’s restaurant, George reis from ocean and 26, Chris Zapalowski from Homewood Gourmet, John Krontiras from

nabeel’s, adam Joiner from The J. Clyde and Scott Preston Smity from The Summit Club.

“We’ve always wanted to do a different event that fit with the community,” said Mandy Heard, development and communica-tions manager with north Central alabama Susan G. Komen for the Cure. “We thought of the wonder-ful culinary landscape Birmingham provides and felt it’d be a great idea to get all the chefs together.”

antony, a participating chef and president of the Birmingham originals, said the pairing made sense. The Birmingham originals have always promoted local food, he said, but the group wanted to

expand that mission and also increase the philanthropic reach of the organization.

The money raised by the event will go to breast cancer research and awareness.

Cancer is a disease that hits close to home for the Birmingham originals.

“We do have members that unfortunately have had cancer,” antony said. “our original president was Franklin Biggs, who has had cancer treatments, so it is something that hits close to our organization. We want to raise awareness. We are chefs, but we want to work with our local community.”

in addition to the popular Birmingham chefs, local celebrities will be on hand to assist them in preparing their dishes. They include amanda leBlanc from the reality series “The amandas,” fashion designer and “Project runway” contestant Heidi Elenora, rick Journey from Fox 6 and actor Michael o’neill, who’s had roles in “Grey’s anatomy” and “The West Wing.”

antony said to expect some innovative dishes from partici-pating chefs. His will be a signature dessert – a slow-roasted pineapple with clementine gel and a citrus fruit salad with tapi-oca and black pepper ice cream garnished with black walnut and sesame Florentine.

“i wanted it to be something really special,” he said. “it’s not overly heavy, and it has lots of textures.

“The chefs have really worked hard and have some beautiful ideas. We’re hoping for a wonderful evening.”

in addition to the chefs’ creations, there also will be a cock-tail reception provided by Cathead Vodka, a silent auction and raffle tickets for sale.

“it’s going to be a good evening, good atmosphere and good company,” Mandy said. “We’re excited about having it at The Summit Club. We met with them, and they offered the space in-kind. They had family members affected with breast cancer. Every chef was so on board, too.

“as a cancer organization, we’re always promoting healthy eating and healthy lifestyle choices. i think the chefs will come up with great dishes that are really well thought out for cancer survivors.” ❖

Participating in the first Chefs for the Cure are from left: Tasos Touloupis from Ted’s Restaurant, Antony Osborne from the Culinard, George Reis from Ocean and 26, Chris Zapalowski from Homewood Gourmet, John Krontiras from Nabeel’s, Haller Magee from Satterfield’s, and Adam Joiner from The J. Clyde. Not pictured are Clif Holt from Little Savannah, Scott Preston Smity from The Summit Club, and Chris Hastings from Hot and Hot Fish Club. Photo special to the Journal

To get an idea of some of the delectable concoctions Chefs for The Cure will be cooking up, try out these recipes provided by participating chefs:

Watermelon Salad with Feta, Marinated Red Onions, Aged Balsamic and Fresh HerbsSatterfield’s, Chef Haller MageeServes 6-10

3 red onions, thinly sliced½ cup extra virgin olive oilJuice of 1 lemon1 small (approximately 5 lbs.), seedless

watermelon, well chilled2 ½ cups feta cheese1 cup of balsamic vinegar, preferably

aged1 cup fresh basil, chopped1 cup fresh mint, choppedFreshly ground black pepper and

kosher salt to taste

Thinly slice the onions and place in a bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon, salt and pepper to taste. Allow the onions to macerate for 20 minutes.

Peel and dice the watermelon into one-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large bowl. Add the macerated onions. Crumble the feta over the watermelon and onions. Drizzle with the balsamic vinegar and gently toss the salad. Just before serving, add the basil and mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve on chilled plates.

Gulf Coast Black Grouper, Grilled Chilton County Peaches, Shallot Mustard VinaigretteOcean Restaurant Chef George Reis

4 fresh peaches, cut in half, seeds

removed1/2 cup miran (sweeten rice wine)1 juice of one lemon salt & pepper to taste

Blend miran, lemon juice and salt and pepper together. Add peaches and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes.

Four 7 oz. Black grouper filetsOlive oilSalt and pepper

Pre-heat grill to medium-high, (a wood grill or charcoal is recommended). Season grouper with salt and pepper and brush with olive oil. Place on a well-oiled grill and cook 5-6 minutes per side until the grouper is just cooked through. Meanwhile on a slightly cooler area, place the peaches flesh side down on the grill. Cook for several minutes until well marked, turn over and cook through.

Place peaches on center of plate and top with grouper filet and finish with shallot

mustard vinaigrette.

Shallot Mustard Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon julienne-cut shallots1 tsp extra virgin olive oil1/3 cup rice wine vinegar2 tsp. Dijon mustard1 tsp. Mince fresh parsley

Sauté shallots in 1 teaspoon olive oil. In a small skillet until caramelized.

Transfer to a large bowl whisk in rice wine vinegar mustard and parsley

Gradually add oil, whisking constantly. Yield: 1 cup

Baked Salmon with lemon, onions and garlicNabeel’s Café & Market; Chef John KrontirasServes 4

4 salmon steaks1 onion sliced in rounds½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil1 lemon6 tbsp Greek oregano

Marinate the salmon steaks in Nabeel’s GLORIA™ Classic Greek Dressing and sprinkle the oregano all over the fish and squeeze plenty of lemon. Leave in marinade for about four-five minutes. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place salmon steaks in baking pan and pour all of the marinade over the steaks. Squeeze some lemon over them and drizzle the rest of the Greek oregano. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the salmon is tender and soft in the center.

Serve with a Greek salad or tossed green salad. ❖

Watermelon Salad from Satterfield’s

Chefs for The Cure

When: June 21, 6-9 p.m.Where: The Summit ClubTickets: $100 for one, $150 for two.komenncalabama.org

Taste Test

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 13 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl Life

By Laura McaLister

Journal EdiTor

When Mountain Brook High School senior laura Matthews starts school at

Samford university in the fall, she already knows what she plans to study.

The teen hopes to be a pharmacist, and she’s already gotten a good bit of experience with medications. laura has to take some 50 pills a day to treat lyme disease and related illnesses, she said.

While the amount of medication she’s on now may seem daunting, laura said she’s starting to get better, and her family of three finally believes they know what’s been ailing the 18-year-old all these years.

“We’re just excited to have an answer,” said libby, laura’s mother. “She’s finally starting to feel herself again. She’s getting better. There are still days she feels rotten, but it’s getting better.”

laura was diagnosed with lyme dis-ease about three years ago, but her fam-ily suspects she’s been suffering from the disease and other related illnesses since she was 6 years old. That’s when, after a day of playing outside their Mountain Brook home, laura’s parents found three ticks on her.

“We’d always heard that as long as you got the head out, it was fine,” libby said. “But then she started having prob-lems big time.”

laura suffered from anxiety and depression. She was always getting sick with flu-like symptoms. She even began to develop asthma, her father, Kit, said. a painful rash that caused her feet to peel and crack made it difficult for her to walk.

“Sometimes it was so bad, i couldn’t walk around the house barefoot,” laura said. “i’d have to walk on the sides of my feet.”

doctors came up with a variety of diagnoses, from obsessive compulsive disorder to an incurable skin disease called keratoderma.

none of the treatments worked, and laura’s symptoms seemed to be wors-ening.

She had night sweats that would soak her sheets, and laura recalls being

so tired she could hardly hold her pencil during school. Her speech and ability to grasp objects with her hands were start-ing to deteriorate.

The Matthews family sought all sorts of treatments and medical care, but none seemed to work. That’s when a friend of libby’s suggested laura get tested for lyme disease.

The symptoms of the disease caused by tick bites sounded spot-on to laura’s, libby recalled. The family finally thought they had an answer and a treat-ment, but it wasn’t that simple.

“Basically we didn’t have a tick,” Kit said, “so nobody here (in Birmingham)wanted to even test her for it.”

after going through several doctors, the Matthewses found a specialist in Tennessee who agreed to test laura for lyme disease.

“She went up there and got tested, and three weeks later they told us it was positive for lyme disease,” libby said.

in September 2009, laura started receiving treatments for lyme. Kit said they almost instantly noticed a differ-ence in their daughter.

“There was a dramatic decrease in her symptoms,” he said.

laura still struggles with the disease. it’s curable, but since it’s been in her system so long, libby said they don’t know how long it will take laura to be completely rid of the disease.

in the meantime, laura is taking her 50 pills a day and reconnecting with friends that her illness robbed her of.

The Matthewses have also started a website, www.fightforlaura.bbnow.org, chronicling laura’s battle with lyme. They’re accepting donations there to help with laura’s medical costs, which they said is “thousands and thousands” a year since much of her treatments are not covered by insurance.

They also hope the site will spread the word about this disease, rarely diag-nosed in this state.

“We want to find out who else has this and let them know that they are not alone,” libby said. “We need to get the guidelines changed on how they treat this. Basically if you don’t have the tick and a bite with a bull’s eye, they won’t even test for it.” ❖

Living with Lyme DiseaseMountain Brook Teen Battles

Tick-Borne Condition

Laura Matthews, center, and her parents, Kit and Libby, have been struggling to find out what was making her sick since she was 6 years old. Three years ago the Mountain Brook High senior was diagnosed with Lyme disease, and now she finally seems to be responding to treatments. Journal photo by Laura McAlister

To: Dr. Vaughn From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: May 2012



Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.


‘Preventing eye diseases through healthy living’ is the motto at Ad-vanced Eye Care, a local optometry practice in Homewood, owned by Dr. Alexia C. Vaughn (above). Dr. Vaughn bought the practice from the former owner in 2007 and has worked hard to create awareness of the effects that healthy living can have on eye health. “Just like the body as a whole, many eye conditions can be prevent-ed just by changing one’s lifestyle with a few simple steps – daily exer-cising, increasing the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, and wearing UV eye protection.” Advanced Eye Care also offers a great selection of of frames and a friendly environment to choose the right look for you. “I keep up with the latest styles to determine what frames will be “hot” during the next season. For instance, I am thoroughly enjoying the retro style frames from the 50’s and 60’s,” says Dr. Vaughn “Technologically in optometry is fast moving.From new drugs and procedures to 3D glasses, digital lenses, and high defi nition contact lenses. I get to be on the cutting edge of improving sight.” From tips on healthy living for bet-ter eye health to latest trends in eye wear. Stop by and see Dr. Vaughn at Advanced Eye Care today!

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To: Eva and Bruce, From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: May 2012

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May 17th issue. please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.


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14 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlsocial

The Collat Jewish Family Services annu-al Hands Up Together event was May 3 at Alabama School of Fine Arts’ new

Dorothy Jemison Day Theater.It was the first event held at the new the-

ater, and some of ASFA’s talented singers and musicians performed.

Hands Up Together honored 90-year-old Jimmie Hess, who is a singer and musi-cian, as well as a longtime philanthropist in Birmingham. Jimmie’s son, Donald, gave an introduction for her. He noted that her connec-tion to the arts and education ran so deep that the very stage on which they were standing was named for Jimmie and her late husband, Emil.

Scottish-born performer and Broadway veteran Euan Morton, performed at the event. Euan, came to the U.S. a decade ago when he brought the role of Boy George from London’s West End to New York in the musical “Tattoo.” He is a nephew by mar-riage of local singer songwriter Mae Samford Robertson, and Mae even joined Euan for one number.

Before the performance, a short but mov-ing video told the story of Mrs. Nina Shaw, who is able to live independently thanks to CJFS’ Buz-A-Bus transportation, Esther Schuster In Home Personal Care program, and other services.

After the performance, there was a stand-ing ovation for Euan and CJFS Executive Director Lauren Perlman. Cathy Friedman, who chaired the event, made brief remarks. CJFS development director Alison Berman presented Cathy with a decorative Tzedaka box, or charity box, as a tribute to her hard work in organizing the event two years in a row.

As guests were leaving, they enjoyed a dessert reception hosted by Jimmie’s friends

and prepared by Susan Mason of B&A Warehouse.

The event raised more than $100,000 for the services CJFS provides to seniors through-out the Birmingham area, regardless of race, religion or ability to pay.

Among those attending were: Lisa and Charles Graham, event chair Cathy and Paul Friedman, Ronne and Donald Hess, Judy and Hal Abroms, Louise and Jim Abroms, Brenda and Fred Friedman, Mae and Webb Robertson, Yin and Stan Ingram, Beth and Jack Schaeffer, David Schaeffer, Brooke and Justin Kaplan, Michael Meeks, Bryding Adams, Judy and Jimmy Rotenstreich, Bunny and Joel Rotenstreich, Betty Goldstein and Leo Kayser, Lenore Picard, Esther Schuster and Allen Shealy, Pam Meisler and Joel Welker;

Sallie and Bruce Downs, Frances Verstandig, Faye and Robert Levin, Ricki and Lanny Kline, Donna and David Kraselsky, Karen and Leslie Allen, Katie and Brian Held, Olivia Alison, Lisa and Alan Engel, Liz and Greg Hodges, Rebeka and Bryan Council, Ina Mae and David Sher, Nancy Wagnon, Elaine Witt, Guin Robinson, Meagan Collman, Gail and Jeffrey Bayer, Harry Bayer, Sally and Richard Friedman, Charlotte Corenblum and Karl Friedman, Hazel and Murray Pizette, Sandra and Alan Berman, Cissy and Leonard Held, Layne Held and Amanda Sher, Marilyn and Murray Tanner, Sheryl and Jon Kimerling, Mary and David Kimerling, Lenora Pate and Steve Brickman, Ellen and Fred Elsas, Jessica Kirk-Drennan, Dan Burnick, Savannah Lanier, Mary Carolyn Cleveland, Henrietta Emack, Ruth and Marvin Engel and Laura Lee and John Samford. ❖

Savannah Lanier, Mary Carolyn Cleveland, Henrietta Emack and Olivia Alison

Yin and Stan Ingram

Celebration of ServiceHands Up Together Honors Jimmie Hess, Raises Funds for CJFS Programs

Ronne Hess, Honoree Jimmie Hess and Donald Hess Photos special to the Journal

Pam Meisler and Joel Welker

OTMJ.COMmore photos at

Jimmie Hess and Cathy Friedman

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 15OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL SOCIAL

St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church hosted a Feast of St. Mark Italian Food Festival April 28 at

the church on Cahaba Valley Road. This was the first of what the church

hopes will become an annual event. Some 1,200 attended the sold-out fes-tival.

Italian restaurants from the Birmingham area contributed dinner, and parishioners baked Italian cook-ies from recipes passed down through their families. The evening ended with a bonfire.

The festival celebrated the parish’s feast day for St. Mark the Evangelist. ❖

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To: KatherineFrom: OverTheMountainJournal,205-823-9646ph., 205-824-1246,faxDate: May2012

ThisisyouraDprOOFfromtheOverTheMOunTainJOurnalfortheMay17,2012issue.pleasefaxapprovalorchangesto824-1246.

pleasemakesureallinformationiscorrect,includingaddressandphonenumber!

pleaseinitialandfaxbackwithin24hours.ifwehavenotheardfromyouby5pmoftheFridaybeforethepressdate,

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parishioners serve cannoli

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16 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlSocial

Prince Edward became the first member of the British Royal Family to visit Alabama when he arrived in Birmingham April 28.

The prince was in town to present gold, silver and bronze medals for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to 31 Miss Alabama participants and nine state title holders.

The program, which focuses on community service, spe-cial skills, physical fitness and an “adventurous journey,” was founded by Prince Edward’s father, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

More than seven million people in 132 countries have received the award. The Miss America Organization is a part-ner with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for the U.S.

Nan Teninbaum, Miss Alabama presi-dent and CEO, planned the events for the prince’s visit.

A Garden Party Afternoon Tea was held at the home and gardens of Laura and Colby Clark. Joining Prince Edward for the medal ceremony were Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler of Wisconsin, Gov. Robert Bentley and his wife Dianne, Birmingham Mayor William Bell and wife Sharon and Sam Haskell, chairman of the Miss America Organization.

Chef Michael Glenn decorated tables in lavender and green with arrangements of roses, orchids, daises, peonies and tulips throughout the gardens. Guests enjoyed panko-crusted shrimp, lobster fritters, chicken and shrimp brus-chetta, tenderloin en croute, macadamia nut clusters, English teacakes, scones, fresh fruit, assorted tea sandwiches and desserts.

Later that evening, a gala dinner in honor of Prince Edward and Laura Kaeppeler was held in the Signature Room of The Club. Miss America 2005 Deidre Downs Gunn was emcee for the evening.

Guests dined on baked oysters with collard greens; lettuce salad with avocado, tomatoes and Green Goddess dressing; beef tenderloin and sea scallops with vegetable risotto; straw-berry cobbler with pistachio crust and vanilla bean ice cream.

Favors were English toffee with Alabama maple syrup.Miss Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South

Carolina, Ohio, West Virginia, Connecticut, Maine and Wyoming, who had received medals at the garden party, entertained with Miss America.

Gov. and Mrs. Bentley presented a gift to the prince for Queen Elizabeth in celebration of her Diamond Jubilee year. Josh Randle, executive director of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the U.S., spoke about the impact of the award pro-gram on young people.

Prince Edward ended the night with his remarks.Among those at the dinner were: Linda and Spencer

Bachus, Sharon and William Bell, Patty McDonald and Julius Linn, Betty and Charles Northen, Katherine and John Seachrist, Jeanne and Aubrey Garrison, Martha and John Dorsett, Cele and Allen Montgomery, Margaret and Tony Serra, Liz and Ron Moore;

Jeanna and Andy Westmoreland, Irene and Hank Collins, Phil Teninbaum, Kurt Jenkins, Ron and Avie Cohen, Ann Hillhouse, Martha Hill, Hazel and Russell Boren, Kevin Hill, Jean Clayton, Pat Scofield, Virginia McDorman, Ken Jackson, Jean and David Hendrickson, Dot and Courtenay Renneker, Shasta Parker, Deborah Wiggins, Ruth Edge, Dona Bullock and Steve Flowers;

Jason Turner, Robert Listerman, Audrey Listerman, Caroline and Stephen Reich, Henry Linn, George Linn, Elouise Williams, Carolyn and Thad Long, Lena Knight, Amie Beth and Chris Shaver, April McAnnally, Melissa Jones, Genoa McPhatter, Martha Cobb, Beth and Jack Schaeffer, Mary Hunt, Paige Albright and Camelia and Robert Holmes.

On Sunday morning, Samford University President Andy Westmoreland and his wife Jeanna hosted a tra-ditional Southern breakfast at their home overlooking the campus for Prince Edward before he departed for London.

Executive Chef Chris Vizzina used fresh, local ingredients as he served Chilton County strawberries and blackberries with goat cheese, McEwen and Sons farm eggs, Cullman County sweet potato hash browns, Nueske’s apple-smoked bacon, cured ham with redeye gravy, Conecuh smoked sausage, McEwen and Sons stone ground grits, roasted asparagus, buttermilk biscuits and chocolate and hazelnut filled crepes with raspberry coulis.

Among the 14 guests were Laura Kaeppeler, Mary and Sam Haskell, Nan and Phil Teninbaum, the prince’s chief of staff and Scotland Yard attendees. ❖

City Celebrates Royal Weekend

Prince Edward talking with the Miss Alabama medal recipients. Photos courtesy Danny Barrett of Pageant Works and Traci Dubberly

Nan Teninbaum and Prince Edward

Prince Edward

Miss America Laura Kaeppeler and Miss Alabama Courtney Porter

OTMJ.COMmore photos at

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 17 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl Social

Fiesta, a Hispanic culture festival, kicked off its 10th anniversary celebration April 25 at Cantina.

During the event, Fiesta intro-duced its new logo celebrating 10 years of Latino culture in Alabama and announced the new location, Linn Park, for the Oct. 13 festival.

At the kickoff event, a recognition ceremony honored sponsors, including the city of Birmingham, Coca-Cola, Home Depot and McDonald’s, for their continued support and commit-ment over the last 10 years.

Guests enjoyed complimentary Cantina’s margaritas and other cock-tails as well as Mexican appetizers, including quesadillas, empanadas and chicken skewers.

The party brought together

Hispanic cultures from all over Latin America with music from Carlos Pino and DJ Ivan Correa and entertainment and dancing from Corazo Flamenco.

Guests included Birmingham Mayor William Bell, his chief of staff Chuck Faush, Birmingham City Council members Johnathan Austin and Jay Roberson, Homewood City Council member David Hooks, Baron’s mascot Babe Ruff, Teresa Zuniga Odom, Denise Koch, Freddy Rubio, Loui Fernandez, Arielle Clay, Krista Conlin, Maree Jones, Casey and Alicia Rohan, Anna Nelson, Audra Bean, Jenifer Wallis, Paget Pizitz, Carter Hughes and Tina Holt.

For more information about Fiesta, visit www.fiestabirmingham.com. ❖

Audra Bean and Lacey Bacchus Photos special to the Journal

Chuck Faush, Alicia Rohan, Mayor William Bell, Krista Conlin, Maree Jones

Fiesta Gears Up for 10th Anniversary Celebration

A sneak peek at Turtle Rock Estate, this year’s Decorators’ ShowHouse, drew 217 people.

The April 20 event allowed guests to see the house before it opened to the public.

Chairman Liz Warren planned the evening. A dinner of Chicken Mitchell over penne pasta, roasted vegetables, baby blue salad and bread pudding with bourbon caramel sauce was provided by Chris Zapalowski of Homewood Gourmet.

Music was by DJ Russ Randolph of Puttin’ on the Ritz. A large floral arrangement of lilies, Dutch iris, hydran-geas and roses was provided by Gus Pappas of Norton’s Florist.

Door prizes collected by Charlotte and Steve Clarkson were awarded dur-ing the evening.

The Empty House Party, was planned by Martha Black and Cathy Ramsey. The ShowHouse benefits the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

The grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony was April 21 with an ASO French horn fanfare. Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto Zaragoza Jr. cut the ribbon along with Opening Day chair-man Sue Parker Trammel and Liz Moore, who provided a celebration cake.

Among those getting a first look were Dixie and Bill Ayers, Amy and Robert Bradley, Lynda Brannon, Noma Jeanne and Gene Crews, Michael Glenn, Genoa McPhatter, Vicky and Rob Hardesty, Harriet and John Maloof, Deborah and Charles McCallum, Mary McCain, Dot and Courtenay Renneker, Debbie and Charles Reed, Frances Stricklin, Nancy and Duke Terrell, Jill and Bob Denning and Elizabeth and Curt Long.

Others enjoying the party were Linda and Mike Griggs, Roberta and Jim Atkinson, Bob Black, Shirley and Bob Brown, Nan and Phil Teninbaum, Tonie and Gene Bone, Nancy and Ken Folk, Darlene and Steve Higginbotham, Jodie Wesson, Jane Paris Smith, Tom Warren, Jeanette Humes, Pringle Ramsey, Diane Ray, Nancy VanWanderham, Diane and Herb Rossmeisl, Martha and Fletcher Yeilding, Joe and Yvonne Sanders, June Bulow and Terry and Jack Standridge. ❖


To: LissieFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: May 2012

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the May 17, 2012 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve

your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





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Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto Zaragoza Jr. Liz Moore and Sue Parker Trammel. Photo special to the Journal

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Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 19 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl social

Audrey Lindquist, Margaret Tucker and Barbara Klyce Photos special to the Journal

Louise Pinkerton and Sylvia Patrick

Silhouettes Dance Club held a wine and cheese party April 18 at the home of Sylvia Patrick. Co-hostesses were Karen Lloyd, Margaret

Tucker, Helen Mills and Dena Leitner.President Louise Pinkerton conducted a short meet-

ing including the election of new members and installa-tion of new officers. The group discussed plans for its upcoming brunch.

Members attending were Rose Ann Kendrick, Connie Hinkle, Patsy Porter, Jackie MacClary,

Jane Leslie, Audrey Lindquist, Betsy Caldwell, Ann Hillhouse, Nita Collingsworth, Mary Frances Cofield, Anne Laws, Barbara Klyce, Margaret Langston,

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Almost 300 Alpha Delta Psi sorority alumnae gathered at a reunion luncheon April 28 at

Mountain Brook Club. The group met in the living room,

where the registration table was manned by Anne Terrell Dawson and Marsha Currie Terrell, for a social hour. A luncheon was held in the ballroom and sunroom and on the terrace.

Table decorations were provided by Mary Jo McNabb Phillips and her daughter Murray Phillips. They arranged lavender and green daisies, the sorority colors, in vases on the round tables where alumnae were seated with their graduating classes. Members who attended ranged from Nancy Beddow Hatch of 1939 to Margaret Hiden of 1999.

Those attending came from Alabama and other states. They included: Caroline Estes Sproule from Maryland; Lloyd Berry Clark, Massachusetts; Amy Lynn Phillips Jones, Texas; Molly Davis Holderman, North Carolina; Lynn Hewes May, Margaret Cale Brooks, Nancy Henry Glenn, Ann McCarty, Eunie Currie Healy and Gail Allen Perry, Tennessee; Camille Walpole Morgan, Lee Merk Sullivan and Allene Bostwick Zvara, Florida; and Bee Yielding McNeil, Ginny Laughlin Mauer, Carol Huck Steiner, Marilyn Scruggs Tucker, Mary Pugh Williamson, Sara Miller Anderson, past president Cammie Heaps Ippolito and Ashley Scott Kane, Georgia.

Reunion chairman Ann King welcomed the group, and Dotty Still Carley gave the blessing. Members reminisced about the fun and sister-hood they enjoyed while in the soror-ity.

After lunch, Alice Herren Schleusner led guests in singing “Star of Vesta,” the sorority song. A song sheet was provided by past president Kitty Brooks Scott Urquart. Her brother-in-law, Robert P. McDavid,

wrote the song in the 1930s. He was also the husband of Ann Brooks and brother of another president, Martha McDavid Haas.

Representing the McDavid fam-ily was another president, Frances McDavid Haynsworth.

Among those attending who helped with class lists were: Edith Tynes Quarles, Honey McCoy Jones, Mary K. Quinn Wilson with daughter Katherine Wilson Corey, Jeanie Jemison Matthews, Louise Bryan Carmichael, president Betty Williams Jones with sister Tippi Williams Hoff, Philippa McClellan Bainbridge, Alice McSpadden Williams, presidents Anne House Hightower and Ann Dial McMillan;

Kirke White Cater, president

Beth Norville Henry with sister Mimi Norville Little, presidents Ann Evins Adams, sisters and presi-dents Mildred Cotten Knight and Virginia Cotten Hillhouse, Linda Logan Turner, Cholett Perry Still, Lindsay Cook with sister Garland Cook Smith, Susan Steiner Farlow, presidents Susan Spain Merrill and Wendy Wager Morris, Francie Morris Deaton, Ginger Chen Abele, Bebe Bromberg Sprain and presi-dent Buffy Bromberg Allen.

Other past presidents attending were Sara Mell Smith Edwards, Dorothy Deramus Boyd, Lynn Otey Tutwiler, Suzanne Grainger DeLoach, Connie Dowdy Hartley, Cathy Hight Lee, Susanna Scarborough and Rebecca Kracke. ❖

Sorority Has Reunion Luncheon

Above: Suzanne Trimm Payne, Susan Casaday Stutts, Lloyd Berry Clark. Below: Susu Rye Bates and Roxanne Ash Mackin. Photos special to the Journal

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 21 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl Social

To: Bezshan, fax 871-1966From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: May 2012

This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the May 17, 2012 issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





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The Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce hosted its 22nd annual Mayor’s Prayer

Breakfast April 3 at the Vestavia Country Club.

The keynote speaker was the Rev. Bill Heintz, who has served as executive director and pastor of The Foundry Rescue Mission and Recover Center in Bessemer since 1996.

He and his wife, Michele, started The Foundry, which serves more than 320 men and women suffering from addiction.

The Mayor’s Breakfast began with an invocation from Rev. Myrle Grate of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. Capt. James H. Edwards with the U.S. Army 20th Special Forces Group led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Cas McWaters sang the national anthem.

Martha Cook, chairman of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce board, gave opening remarks followed by comments from Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza Jr.

The Rev. Russell “Rusty” Glasgow of Cahaba Heights United Methodist Church gave the scrip-ture reading. Dr. Scott Guffin with Liberty Park Baptist Church said a prayer of praise and thanksgiving.

The youth prayer was led by Callie Barganier, president of Vestavia Hills High School’s Student Government Association. The prayer for the nation and world was given by Randy E. Robertson, Vestavia Hills city manager.

The Rev. Michael Johnson of Crossroads Community Church gave the benediction. ❖

Heintz Speaks at Vestavia Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast

Above: Ann Hamiter, Mayor Butch Zaragoza, Michele Heintz, Rev. Bill Heintz, Martha Cook and Karen Odle. Below: Michele and the Rev. Bill Heintz.

Photo courtesy David Leong

To: BECKY or TIM, 823-8823 faxFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: May 9 2012

This is your aD prOOF from the OvEr ThE MOunTaIn JOurnal for the

May 17th issue. please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.


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,

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22 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALFASHION

Priya Mittelmark has always sur-rounded herself with her puppies, so when her daughter was born, it only

seemed natural to dress her little girl in clothes with cute puppies on them.

The only problem: She could find only boy clothes with puppies. She solved that, though, by starting her own clothing line, and she’s helping the furry friends she loves so much at the same time.

Priya recently started Puppy Luv Glam, a girls’ clothing line that features a puppy wearing a tiara adorned with Swarovski crystals as well as the line’s signature say-ing, “Spoiled and Fabulous.”

A portion of the sales goes to the Shelby County Humane Society and Birmingham’s Two by Two Animal Rescue, organizations very dear to Priya.

“I’ve always been involved with res-cues,” said the Miami native. “Even as a little girl I was always bringing stray ani-mals home.

“When I moved here, I saw a huge, huge need. Spay and neuter laws are not as strict here, so I really wanted to ramp up my rescue work.”

Priya almost immediately began vol-unteering for the two organizations. At the same time, she and her husband Mitch were trying to have a baby, which proved to be difficult for the couple.

“It took a good seven years,” Priya said. “It was hard. The only thing that really kept me going were my rescue dogs. There’s a lot of nurturing done through animals.”

The Mittelmarks finally did have a baby, Elle Mia, three years ago.

When Priya’s search for girls’ clothing with puppies turned up nothing, Mitch told her it was time to stop complaining and create her own clothing line.

It wasn’t that much of a stretch for Priya. She’s no stranger to the fashion industry. In addition to a love for dogs – Priya currently has three rescues and also fosters shelter dogs – she also loves clothes. She worked for some 10 years in various departments of Macy’s while in Miami, so she knew something about the

Priya Mittelmark recently hired models to show off her Puppy Luv Glam clothing line along with some rescue dogs looking for loving homes. Below, Priyaʼs daughter Elle Mia inspired her to start the clothing line Photo special to the Journal

Puppy Prints

Fledgling Fashionista

Clothes Combine Canine Couture, Charity

Rising Design Star Finalist Plans a Stylish CareerBY LAURA MCALISTER

JOURNAL EDITOR

Since Lauren Reeder was a little girl, she’s had a love for fashion.

Whether it was playing dress-up at her house or trying on shoes while her mother shopped, her interest in clothing started at an early age.

Her high school peers even named her Best Dressed for the yearbook Who’s Who for her style, which Lauren describes as “conservative with some funky mixed in.” Her fashion icons are “Pretty Little Liars” star Lucy Hale and actress Jennifer Aniston.

So now that she’s off to college next year, it

only makes sense that she starts studying fash-ion design.

The Vestavia Hills senior will graduate in just a few days. In the fall, she’ll start at Auburn University’s design school majoring in apparel merchandising. She hopes to one day open her own fashion store – maybe in Mountain Brook or Homewood – featuring her own designs as well as those of others.

Though she’s still in high school, this fash-ionista is well on her way to achieving her goals. She’s already creating her own clothes, and the dress she designed for this year’s Birmingham Fashion Week earned her a finalist

BY LAURA MCALISTER

JOURNAL EDITOR

See PUPPY, page 27

See FASHIONISTA, page 27

Christa Harding looks sharp in this navy Vince top, $275, and Petit Pois Skirt, $190. She paired it with a turquoise belt by Bekaloo, $98, and Kipppys stone belt, $240, adding just the right pop of color. Her outfit is finished with turquoise and gold earrings by Shalla Wista, $174, and Isle Jacobson shoes, $130. Besty Prince, 871-1965

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Lauren Reeder designs her own clothing. Here, she is wear-ing a skirt she made.

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 23 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl fashion

Miss Alabama 2011 Courtney Porter, left, is ready for a night out wearing a Nicole Miller coral one-shoulder silk dress, $355, and colorful beaded necklaces, $28. Britni McMillan looks fashion forward in By Smith shorts, $176, Michael Star tank, $40, and blazer by Nicole Miller, $395. The Clothes Tree by Deborah, 822-1902

Laura Lovett, right, is staying cool in 100 percent silk. Her blue scoop neck Cluny by Cynthia Steffe tank with embroidered cutouts, $153, is a gorgeous match to the Cluny bright watercolor print silk skirt, $193. A handmade gold-plated and jeweled cuff by Omsa, $110, multi-layered beaded necklace, $35, and Susan Shaw gold-plated hoop earrings, $16, add just the right amount of glitz. Lauren Stewart is channeling Audrey Hepburn in her tapered leg side zip twill pants by Peace of Cloth, $170, and a creamy white pleated top by Eva Franco with the latest fashion trend…the peplum waist, $172. A perfect summer weight cotton shrug by CeCe, $38, and Eyebob Polarized sunglasses, $150, completes the sophisticated look. Pants and shrugs are available in a variety of colors. “Daniella” bag is from Hobo International in purple, $188. Lulie’s, 871-9696

Thomas Morse, right, is looking sharp in Southern Tide khaki trousers, $98.50, seafoam green Southern Tide polo, starting at $75, white Southern Tide cap, $25, and Alden Boat Shoes, $295. Also looking his best is Joseph Danfourah in Southern Tide khaki trousers, $98.50, long sleeve button down Southern Point shirt, $92.50, Southern Proper cap, $25, and Martin Degman brown loafers, $200. Remons, 977-5512

Mariah Wick, left, is ready for some summer fun wearing a lilac mesh and lace spaghetti strap dress by A’reve, $69, and silver shimmer crochet metal necklace by Lisa Toland, $99. Cherish Roodhouse is wearing a fun and flirty cream lace embellished mesh top, $32.95, and mocha lace shorts by Umgee, $38, a butterfly necklace, $21.99, by Bejio and gold dust floral headband, $56.99, by Colleen Toland. Ambiance, 767-5592

24 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALFASHION

To: DeborahFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: May


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Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 25 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl Fashion

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Emily Dance of Hoover looks cool and ready to step outside in this Mustard Seeds Hope (Jeremiah 29:11) T-shirt, $24.95. Her wardrobe is complete with a Mustard Seeds stamped necklace, $36.95, and Mustard Seeds Faith (Matthew 17:20) Tote, $24.95. Mustard Seeds, 879-7091

These girls look sweet in their one-of-a-kind summer outfits. Bella Suco, 9, is wearing a Thanks Tank, $42; Skoot Around Skirt, $42; and Happy Hoodie, $52, with pink boots. Logan McCoy, 11, is wearing a Play in Paisley tunic, $42, with Giddy Gaucho pants, $44. Jiele Westray, 8, is wearing Do the Dress, $56. All fabrics and patterns are designed locally and come in sizes 7-14. Favorite Laundry/Between Collection, 545-8664

26 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlFashion

Samford University nursing student Julie Beasley, right, is wearing a gold 3/4 sleeve dress. This is a great dress for any occasion with its trendy open sleeves and gathered neckline. The dress can be worn with or without a belt, $75. She is wearing a handcrafted necklace made of light-weight acrylic in fun patterns. Each piece is a work of art, $56. She is also wearing a trendy cuff bracelet in a stamped and painted metal, $24. Hadley Algren, a senior at Vestavia Hills High School, is wearing a pair of lined layered cotton lace shorts in cream with a side zipper, $39. She paired this with a semi-sheer scoop neck top that has side gathers, a back slit and cuffed short sleeves, $39. Her accessories consist of one of Pink Tulip’s signature statement necklaces made in a double layer of tear drop shaped beads in minty green, $46, and a multi layered bracelet in mixed metals, seed beads and fabric, $24. The Pink Tulip, Homewood, 870-7258; Mountain Brook, 637-5390

Wedges are all the rage this summer. Wedge heels by Beverly Mills, $39.99, and Puebla by Volatile, a canvas print wedge with an ankle strap, $59.99 will pull together any summer outfit. Flat sandals are always in style. These pale green sandals embellished with puka shells by Bamboo 54, $26.99, will add the perfect touch. Flip Flops & What Nots, 967-7429

Caitlin Owens is ready for some summer fun wearing a strapless maxi dress with ruffle in mocha, $64.80; Hattie Patent Criss Cross wedge, $110; and gold filigree disk earring with droozy in sand/opal $56. Haley Herrod looks sweet and sassy in this sleeveless dress with lace top in cream, $68.50. She’s paired it with a gold ring with ivory, $36.80; gold filigree necklace with opal/gold, $68.50; and peep-toe sling back wedge in beige, $36.50. Private Gallery, 969-1559

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 27 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl Fashion

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industry.When it came to her clothing line, she knew exactly

what she wanted.“I of course wanted the puppy, and I wanted some

bling with it, so we have the tiara with crystals,” she said. “I put the ‘Spoiled and Fabulous’ on it because I think it’s cute for girls, but I also think rescue dogs, when they find homes, are spoiled and fabulous, too, like they deserve.”

The clothing – which includes T-shirts, tanks, dresses and onesies for infants through juniors, though Priya said she and her friends are known to wear them, too – are sold online, and she also sells them wholesale to retailers throughout the country.

She’s hoping more local boutiques will pick up the line and has plans for a fashion show in the near future. Priya said it would be a time not only to learn about the clothing but also to check out some of the area’s rescues in need of good homes.

Even though she has some out-of-state buyers, Priya said she’s keeping the donations from the sales local with the Shelby Humane Society and Two by Two Animal Rescue.

“These are both just really huge to me,” she said. “Shelby Humane Society does the transport of dogs up north, and that’s where I’m giving the money to them, and Two by Two Animal Rescue is just great.”

Neutering and spaying laws are strict in the northern U.S. and other parts of the country, so there aren’t as many stray dogs in those areas, Priya said. That’s another reason she wanted to keep the donations local.

She said in Birmingham alone, some 1,000 homeless dogs and cats are euthanized each week. Nationwide, about 100 strays are euthanized each hour, she said.

“What I really love about Puppy Luv Glam is it allows you to get and give back,” Priya said. “This is a really important cause to me, and it’s just been so rewarding.”

Priya said kids from the Over the Mountain area stepped in to model the shirts and also to volunteer with the organizations. She said they are always looking for models as well as volunteers for the rescue organizations.

Her friends and neighbors were quick to do what they could to help her start the clothing line, Priya added.

“The Birmingham community has really been so sup-portive,” she said. “I cannot thank all the folks enough who have helped this succeed.”

As for Priya’s 3-year-old daughter Elle Mia, she loves wearing the shirts, and she also shares her mom’s love for animals, even at this early age.

“My daughter calls them her brothers and sisters,” Priya said of the family’s three dogs. “We all live in one big happy home together.”

For more information on Puppy Luv Glam, visit pup-pyluvglam.com or email [email protected]. ❖

spot in the Rising Design Star Competition in February.

For the competition, Lauren incorporated many of her own loves into the dress. However, according to contest rules, she had to use uncon-ventional materials, and no sewing was allowed.

“I wanted it to be something I loved, so I thought, I love music and I love theater,” she said. “So I got music sheets of the song ‘Everything’ by Michael Buble. Since the com-petition was around Valentine’s Day, I thought, that’s a love song. The top also looks like a heart.”

Using duct tape and brads, Lauren formed the bodice of the dress and added a straight skirt with a ruffle around the waste. The entire dress is made from sheet music that she crinkled to give the paper more movement. She even added a floral corsage, also made from the music sheets, to one shoulder.

In all, she said, the dress took her about three weeks to make.

And yes, even though it was made of delicate paper, it was still wearable on the runway.

“My sister-in-law wore it,” Lauren said. “It was kind of cool. I was so scared it would rip, but it was good.”

Though Lauren’s love of fashion started early, she said it wasn’t until recently that she decided to try her hand at designing her own clothes.

She had some good help to get her started. Her grandmother, Carolyn Reeder, taught the teen to sew and helped her make her first skirt.

“She’s really good,” Lauren said of her grandmother’s sewing abilities. “She used to make my mom’s outfits, and she would make my pep rally (costumes). Last summer, we went

and picked out fabrics, and she taught me how to make a basic skirt.”

Lauren frequently wears the pleated, A-line skirt in a graphic print that she made, paired with a tank and thick belt. Since learning to sew, she’s also taken over making her pep rally out-fits and created a red bandana skirt with white T-shirt top to wear to a recent farm-themed pep rally.

Attending the fashion camp Project Design last year at Auburn University also helped her sharpen her fashion design skills. There, she

learned the technique of draping fabrics.“After that camp, it really made me want to

go into fashion,” Lauren said. “It was so great. You’d go into the classrooms, and they were just full of sewing machines.”

During the summer, Lauren said, she plans to continue to perfect her sewing and designing skills. Her next project is redesigning a pageant dress her mother wore as a teen.

“I hope to fix it up so I can wear it to differ-ent events,” Lauren said. “I hope to make more outfits, too.” ❖

Above: Lauren Reeder works on one of her custom designs. Her grandmother taught her how to use a sewing machine. Right: Lauren’s Valentine’s Day and music inspire dress earned her a final-ist spot during Birmingham Fashion Week. Photo special to the Journal

fAshionistA, from page 22

PuPPy, from page 22

Puppy Luv Glam founder Priya Mittelmark, lefta, and Merritt Huey, model the clothing line’s tanks with Priya’s rescue dog, Ladybug. Journal photo by Laura McAlister

28 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlWeddings & engagements

Guarracino-TubbsMr. and Mrs. Joseph Guarracino

of Brick, N.J., announce the engage-ment of their daughter, Alicia

Guarracino, to Jonathan Tubbs, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Tubbs of Hoover.

The bride-elect is the granddaugh-ter of Mrs. Laura Guarracino and the late Mr. Giacomo Guarracino and the late Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Malfitano.

Miss Guarracino is a graduate of Stockton College in New Jersey and Notre Dame University, where she received a master’s degree. She is employed at Georgia Perimeter College in Clarkston, Ga.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Hollowell and the late Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Rogers Tubbs.

Mr. Tubbs is a graduate of Samford University, where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. He is employed at Soliant Health, Inc. in Atlanta.

The wedding is planned for June 23.

Cupp-LucasCatherine Anne Cupp and Kenan

Holmes Lucas were married April 28 in Hot Springs, Ark., on the bride’s family’s lakefront property beneath a large tree overlooking Lake Hamilton.

The Rev. David Ben Wilson officiated at the 6 p.m. ceremony. Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a tented cocktail dinner dance on Cupp Point.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Cecil Watson Cupp III of Hot Springs. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Cary Gilbreth Beck of Birmingham and the late William Ray Lucas Jr.

The bride was given in marriage by her father. Her gown was a cou-

ture design from the collection of New York-based designer Elizabeth Fillmore. The gown was constructed from brocade Dupioni and accented at the waist by a French blue draped court trail. Her dress was accessorized with a silver threaded Chantilly lace-trimmed veil. She carried a loosely gathered clutch of mixed peonies, hydrangeas, spring garden roses, lisanthus and sweet peas.

Matron of honor was Lauren Cupp Feilke, sister of the bride, of Little Rock, Ark. Bridesmaids were Marguerite Lee Lucas, Alice Ray Lucas, Allison Long Beré, Katherine Anna Horgan, Emily Catherine Bratten Jeter, Ann Wyatt Little, Casie Williams Selig and Stephanie Magee Smith. Flower girls were Rose LeSalle Lowder and Lila Jeanne Eddins.

Best man was Keith Taylor Levy of Nashville, Tenn. Groomsmen were Henry Michael Graham Jr., Jake Cody Boulware, Richard Andrew Veal, James Daniel Smith , Dean Heyward Smith, Jared Scott Smith and Evan Michael Smith. Austin Gray Lowder served as ring bearer. Ushers were Adam Wright Dyess, Thomas Wooten Traxler, Michael Lee Lucas Jr. and Dr. Michael John Moustoukas.

The couple will live in San Francisco until the groom begins graduate school in Charlottesville, Va., in the fall.

Wallace-Colon

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stephen Wallace Jr. of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Emily Peyton Wallace, to Chad Michael Colon, son of Dr. and Mrs. Percy Joseph Colon III of Vestavia Hills.

The bride-elect is the granddaugh-ter of Lucy Rountree Sommers and the late Sigmund Robert Sommers of Selma and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stephen Wallace Sr. of Browns.

Miss Wallace is a 2007 graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and a 2011 summa cum laude graduate of Birmingham-Southern College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She was president of Pi Beta Phi soror-

ity. Miss Wallace is a teacher in the Homewood City School system.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Joseph Colon Jr. of Kenner, La., Mrs. Judy White of Metairie, La., and Mr. James Eckert of Tucson, Ariz.

Mr. Colon is a 2007 graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and a 2011 magna cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in biology. He will attend the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham in the fall.

The wedding is planned for June 23 at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Paul Catholic Church in Birmingham.

Foxx- CoolMs. Dianna Lynn Foxx of Opelika

announces the engagement of her daughter, Alana Kathleen Foxx, to Brent William Cool, son of Dr. and Mrs. Timothy Alden Cool of Birmingham.

The bride-elect is the granddaugh-ter of Mr. and Mrs. Jay K. Long of Auburn, and Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Laro of Opelika.

Miss Foxx is a graduate of Beauregard High School and Southern Union State Community College. She will attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the fall to achieve a bachelor’s degree in biology, followed by graduate school.

The prospective groom is the grand-son of the late Dr. and Mrs. William House Chambless of Montgomery, and Mrs. Betty Ruth Cool and the late Col. Brent Alden Cool of Birmingham.

Mr. Cool is a graduate of Briarwood Christian High School and Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in public administration and a minor in political science. He was a member of Alpha Phi Omega. He is employed with Medical and Educational Resources, a distributorship for Biomet Spine.

The wedding is planned for June 2.

Quave-O’RearGretchen Renee Quave and William

Kent O’Rear were married Dec. 17, 2011 at Space 301 in Mobile. The Rev. Jeff Spiller of Christ United Methodist Church of Mobile officiated. A recep-tion at Space 301 followed the cer-emony.

The bride is the daughter of Mark and Sheila Hughes of Picayune, Miss., and David and Susan Quave of Butler, Tenn. She is the granddaughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Leavins of Semmes and Shadrack Quave and the late Vivian Lee Quave of Picayune.

The groom is the son of Julius and Amy O’Rear of Birmingham and the grandson of Sanford and Pauline O’Rear of Jasper and the late Dr. and Mrs. Charles M. Gross of Mobile.

The bride wore a soft ivory silk-taffeta gown designed by Pronovias with a sweetheart neckline, chapel-length train and accessorized with a beaded bridal sash. She wore an elbow-length veil with ribbon edge detail. The bride’s hand-tied bouquet consisted of white hydrangeas, white roses, stepha-notis, pearls and rhinestones.

Matrons of honor were Andrea Martin of Athens and Jenny Montalvo of Mobile. Bridesmaids were Lauren Holcombe of Daphne and Whitney Law of Mobile. Claire Quave, niece of the bride, served as flower girl.

The best man was Landon Davis of Chelsea. Groomsmen were Stuart O’Rear, brother of the groom; Daniel and Joseph Quave of Picayune, broth-ers of the bride; and Jake Beaton and Trey Galloway of Mobile. Tommy Vandegrift, nephew of the bride, served as ring bearer.

Matthew Atkinson was the violinist.After a honeymoon trip to San

Francisco and Napa Valley, Calif., the couple live in Mobile.

Andrews-RobertsDr. and Mrs. Michael Frederick

Andrews of Palm Beach, Fla. announce the engagement of their daughter, Heather Michelle Andrews, to John Allen Roberts, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Atkinson Roberts of Birmingham.

The bride-elect is a graduate of Pace Academy in Atlanta and an alumna of Hollins University where she received a bachelor’s degree in sociology. Miss Andrews

is employed by Graff Diamonds in Palm Beach.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Sharp Gillespy Roberts of Birmingham and the late Dr. and Mrs. John Allen Jones of Montgomery.

Mr. Roberts is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and an alumnus of the University of Virginia where he received a bachelor’s degree in government with a minor in Spanish. He was a member of the varsity football team and Kappa Sigma frater-nity. Mr. Roberts also attended the Universidad Antonio de Nebrija in Madrid, Spain, where he obtained a diploma basico de Espanol. He later received both his juris doctor and international master of business administration degrees from the University of South Carolina. Mr. Roberts is employed by Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Inc., in Birmingham.

The wedding is planned for Saturday, June 23, 2012, at The Royal Poinciana Chapel in Palm Beach.

To: Dr. GriffinFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: May 2012

This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the May issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





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Share your good newsRecently engaged or married? Share your good news with our readers. Just go to www.otmj.com and click on “Issues, forms &

info” at the top of the page and fill out the form, or email informa-tion to [email protected].

Gwin Students Support Snake Research

Gwin Elementary Enrichment fourth grade students Reid Crawford and Bailey Vance are working with Auburn University to educate others about the eastern indigo snake.

Since efforts continue to introduce indigo snakes back into the wild, the students collected old pillowcases for research teams to use in the snake habitats. The students will go to Auburn to meet research team members – and the indigo snakes.

Highlands Participates in Party for the Planet

Highlands School National Junior Honor Society students participated in the Birmingham Zoo’s Party for the Planet 2012 April 21.

Seventh graders Hannah Kindervater, Emma Turner, Mary Frances Lembke, Issy Schwiebert, Lincoln Sorscher and Connor Walker, working with advisor and science teacher Sam Kindervater, provided hands-on science activities to teach environmentally-friendly uses of

energy. Activities included making windmills

out of paper, watching a handmade windmill generate enough electricity to light up a light bulb, playing with

a solar-powered Pepsi can car and making fossils out of flour, water and coffee grounds.

The event was in celebration of Earth Day. ❖

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 29 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl SchoolS

To: JeanFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: April 2012

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the April 19, 2012 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





School Notes

Highlands students who turned out for the Birmingham Zoo’s Party for the Planet included, from left: Emma Turner, Mary Frances Lembke and Hannah Kindervater. Photo special to the Journal

Reid Crawford

Bailey Vance

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice recently announced the coveted title of Alabama Teacher of the Year at an awards ceremony in

Montgomery, and this year’s winner is from Hoover.Suzanne Culbreth, a math teacher at Spain Park High

School is the Alabama Teacher of the Year for 2012. With the title, Culbreth assumes the role of official

spokesperson and representative for teachers in Alabama for the next year.

“I am so proud to be an advocate for the classroom teacher,” she said. “I’m very honored and humbled and thankful to my family and to my Spain Park High School family for supporting me.”

The awards ceremony, which honors all of the dis-trict finalists for Teacher of the Year, is held annually in celebration of these teachers’ dedication to education in Alabama public schools.

“It is an honor to present the Alabama Teacher of the Year award to Suzanne Culbreth,” Dr. Bice said. “Her pas-sion for mathematics and ability to bring its relevance to her students is a model of 21 Century STEM education. She is a highly respected teacher leader who, in any con-versation I have ever had with her, always brings to focus what is right for students.

“What a role model for current and future teachers to emulate. Congratulations to Suzanne as Alabama’s Teacher of the Year for 2012.”

Culbreth has taught at Spain Park since 2008 and at Oak Mountain High School from 2002-2008. Culbreth considers her greatest contributions to be as a supporter and encourager of fellow and future teachers.

She enjoys incorporating technology into her class-room as much as possible. Discovery is the cornerstone of her instruction. She believes students should be engaged in mathematics and tangibly experience it beyond working a set of problems successfully.

“The benefit comes not in the concept taught but in the process of learning, which can be applied to life.” she said. ❖

Top Teacher Spain Park Teacher Named State Teacher of the Year

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tommy Bice pre-sented Spain Park teacher Suzanne Culbreth with the Teacher of the Year award. Photo special to the Journal

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School stu-dents annually write, illustrate and pub-lish their own books. It’s all a part of

the school’s Ultimate Author Day celebration.Throughout the 2011-12 school year, stu-

dents in Wee-K3 through eighth grade worked to create original books or other forms of writ-ten media. On UAD April 25, the entire student body celebrated all forms of language expres-sion, with a particular emphasis on writing.

The children attended workshops, sharing sessions, special performances and literature-based activities presented by professionals and volunteers. The students’ work was displayed in the Family Life Center.

“This was our fourth consecutive year to execute this project and celebrate it with UAD – a fun and informative day,” said Mary Jane Dorn, OLS principal. “Each year we see our students write and read with more confidence because of the benefits this project and UAD instills.”

This year’s theme was “Rolling Out the Red Carpet ... for the Real Heroes.”

Presenters spoke about various forms of lan-guage expression and the importance of making a difference in the world.

Many book experiences prepared for the students on UAD featured American heroes. Professionals and parent volunteers read stories about these heroes and participated in activities with students relating to the heroes.

During an assembly, Father Mitch Pacwa, host of EWTN Live, spoke to the students about the importance of being open to what God wants for them in their lives. The assembly ended with percussionist John Scalici playing

his drum as he talked about his work with inner city students and troubled youth.

Students participated in breakout sessions after the assembly. Each class had a specific schedule, which included listening to profes-sionals from a variety of fields.

“It is always so exciting to have so many talented professionals visit our school and share their creative ideas about writing and other forms of language expression with our students,” said Cindy Westbrook, OLS teacher

and UAD chairman. “Our parents and PTO are amazingly supportive of this event, which always helps to make it a success.”

Professionals who attended included:Pam Huff, ABC 33/40 anchor; Mike Raita,

ABC 33/40 sports director; Melissa Turnage, Birmingham News columnist; Father Mitch Pacwa, EWTN Live host; John Scalici, drum-mer facilitator and master teaching artist; Samantha Corona, publisher of a Honda compa-ny magazine; Jack Williams, Queen of Heaven

Radio general manager; Chip Brantley and Liz Hughey, authors and founders of DISCO, a writing workshop program for inner city chil-dren;

Antoynee Boykin, author; Erin Penherski, artist; Sara Jean Brooklere, cookbook author; John Tighe, computer programmer; Carolyn Thomas, Florence Nightingale performance; Tommy Davis, Contemporary Christian musi-cian; Amanda Sizemore Turner, Vestavia Hills Library storyteller; Lisa Dunick, author and English professor; Ellen Edmunds, author; Bruce Bright, public speaker;

Dr. Jennifer Dexter, veterinarian; Michele Alesce, calligraphy expert; Father Jaya Reddy, OLS associate pastor; Father Michael Adams, OLS associate pastor and budding author; Deborah Hosey, artist; Kesha James, computer programmer; and the Alabama Ballet.

To conclude this year’s UAD project, stu-dents were asked to earn money at home by doing chores. They could then donate their earnings to one of the charities represented by UAD presenters. Each child had the opportunity go to the school’s “Donation Station” April 27-May 4 to make his or her deposit.

The charities and the presenters representing them included: Children’s Hospital Pediatric Oncology Unit, Miss Alabama 2008 Amanda Tapley; Queen of Heaven of Heaven Radio, Jack Williams; EWTN, Father Mitch Pacwa; an orphanage in India, Father Jaya Reddy; OLS School Foundation, Father Michael Adams; UAB’s Florence Nightingale Letters Project, Carolyn Thomas; DISCO, Liz Hughey and Chip Brantley; Hand in Paw, Jennifer Dexter; and United for Life Foundation, Ellen Edmonds. ❖

30 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlSchoolS

OLS Rolls Out Red Carpet for Author Day

Miss Alabama 2008 Amanda Tapley, fourth from left, spoke to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School students during their kickoff assembly on Ultimate Author Day April 25. With her are OLS eighth graders, from left: Lauryn Schilleci, Annie Sellers, Elizabeth Ward, Amanda Tapley, Kathryn Brouillette, Mary Grace Oglesby, Krysa Miller and Mariteresa Petruzella.

School Notes

Meghan Till Wins Yale Book Award

The John Carroll Catholic High School faculty selected Meghan Till as this year’s recipient of the Yale Book Award, presented to her April 26 before the student body.

The Yale Club of Alabama presents the award at selected Alabama high schools. The award is given to the most outstanding junior, who is chosen by the faculty.

The most important factor in selecting the recipient is academic achievement and promise. Other criteria include distinguished achievement in

extracurricular activities, demonstrated leadership ability, peer acceptance, personal integrity, general personality and service to the community.

This year’s book, “The Yale Book of Quotations” edited by Fred Shapiro, contains more than 12,000 famous quotations. It focuses on American quotations and includes items not only from literary and historical sources but from popular culture, sports, computers, science, politics, law and the social sciences.

It is the first quotation book to use state-of-the-art research methods to capture famous quotations and to trace sources of quotations to their true origins.

MBE Teachers Get iPads

Mountain Brook Elementary School has joined a growing number of schools investing in Apple iPad handheld tablets for classroom learning.

All certified MBE teachers were issued their iPads as surprise gifts during a Teacher Appreciation Luncheon in April. The teachers will learn to use the iPads in their classrooms at workshops now and throughout the summer.

The iPad gives teachers and students access to libraries and information from all over the world.

Principal Belinda Treadwell, assistant principal Lisa Walters and technology coordinator Paula Stanbridge were instrumental in the project. The new iPad 3s were funded locally by MBE’s Lancer PTO and a community service grant from State Rep. Paul DeMarco.

Homewood Schools Recognized for Wellness Program

Homewood City Schools was named a silver winner in the 2011-12 School Employee Wellness Awards Program sponsored by the Directors of Health Promotion and Education.

Homewood was one of nine school districts recognized for its excellence in implementing school employee wellness programs that promote employee health and lead to improved workforce productivity, reduced costs of employee absenteeism and

healthcare.As a silver winner, HCS will receive

a $500 grant to use for the school employee wellness program, The Movement. The Movement is designed to change the way students and staff members think about health and wellness. Its purpose is to create a culture change to better address the challenges of obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, stress, cardiovascular disease and other related illnesses.

With this award, HCS will be featured on DHPE’s school employee wellness website and will be invited to national conferences to make presentations about its successful school employee wellness program.

Mobile Dairy Visits VHEW

Amanda Griffith, teaching director of Auburn University, recently visited Vestavia West Elementary to give students an outside learning experience.

Students in kindergarten through third grade learned from the Mobile Dairy Classroom, part of an educational program sponsored by the Southwest Dairy Farmers. The 32-foot dairy classroom features a fully operational milking parlor and carries a live cow to schools and fairs.

The MDC is a free event for schools and must be scheduled in advance. ❖

Father John McDonald presents John Carroll student Meghan Till with the Yale Book Award. Photo special to the Journal

At a Mountain Brook Elementary Teacher Appreciation Luncheon were, from left, front: Paula Stanbridge, technology coordinator; Belinda Treadwell, prin-cipal; Barbara Brewster, second grade teacher; Suzy Notarianni, sixth grade teacher; Meredith Collins, fourth grade teacher; and Shannon Millhouse, sixth grade teacher. Back: Lisa Walters, assistant principal; Betsy Keller, PTO trea-surer; Tzena Gauldin, PTO president; and Martha Johnston, special education teacher. Teachers received iPads at the luncheon. Photo special to the Journal

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 31OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL SCHOOLS

To: From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: May 2011

This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the May 19, 2011 issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

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


U. of Alabama at Birmingham*U. of Alabama, Tuscaloosa*American UniversityAmerican University of ParisAuburn University* Birmingham-Southern College*Bates CollegeBoston University*Brown UniversityBucknell UniversityCalifornia Institute of Technology University of California, Los Angeles*College of Charleston*University of ChicagoClaremont McKenna CollegeCoastal Carolina UniversityColumbia UniversityDavidson College*University of Denver*Drexel University*Duke University*Eckerd College*Edgewood CollegeElon University* Emory UniversityFisk University Furman University*George Washington UniversityGeorgetown University Georgia Institute of TechnologyHampden- Sydney College*

Harvard College Hendrix CollegeHollins UniversityHoward University* Indiana University at Bloomington* Johns Hopkins University University of KentuckyLake Forest CollegeLewis & Clark CollegeLouisiana State University Loyola ChicagoLoyola University, MarylandUniversity of Mary WashingtonMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyUniversity of Massachusetts – AmherstUniversity of MiamiMiddlebury CollegeUniversity of Mississippi* Mississippi State University*U. of Montana, Missoula University of Montevallo*New College New York University* U. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill U. of North Carolina, Wilmington Northeastern University* Oberlin College Occidental College Oglethorpe University*Ohio Northern University Oklahoma City University

University of PennsylvaniaPennsylvania State UniversityUniversity of Pittsburgh*Pitzer CollegePoint Park UniversityPrinceton UniversityPurdue UniversityRhodes College*Roosevelt UniversitySamford UniversitySavannah Coll of Art and DesignSewanee: The University of the South*Skidmore CollegeU. of South AlabamaSouthern Methodist University*Smith CollegeSpelman CollegeTexas State University – San MarcosTulane UniversityVanderbilt University*University of Vermont*University of Virginia*Virginia Polytechnic InstituteWashington and Lee UniversityWashington University, St. Louis*Wellesley CollegeWesleyan University Western Michigan UniversityU. of Wisconsin, Stevens PointWofford College

Bold – student will matriculate* - two or more students accepted

We are proud of our 55 seniors accepted to the folloWing colleges and universities:

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The cast, crew and orchestra of Mountain Brook Junior High’s production of “Bye Bye Birdie”

took their final bow April 23. The school presented the musical to

more than 2,000 people in three days.“Bye Bye Birdie” begins as singer

Conrad Birdie, played by MBJH’s

Matthew Powell, is about to be induct-ed into the Army. Albert Peterson, played by Mark Hammontree, is his agent and songwriter. Albert’s faith-ful assistant and love interest is Rose Alvarez, played by Tamara Hites.

The production was cast and direct-ed by Jesse Tilton. Music was under the

direction of John Kincaid, and choreog-raphy was by Delle Kincaid.

The sets and technical aspects were designed by Gary Weatherly. Dr. Frank Blanton directed the student orchestra, and Diane Faulkner decked out the actors and sets with her 1950s-style wardrobe choices. ❖

Mountain Brook Junior High Students Present ‘Bye Bye Birdie’

Above: Cast members perform “Got a lot of liven

to do.” Right: Singing “Hymn

for a Sunday Evening” during Mountain Brook

Junior Highʼs pro-duction of “Bye

Bye Birdie” were: Spiro Gerontakis,

Allie Cannon, Bailey Edmonds,

and Drew Willoughby.


To: JimFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: Oct. 2010

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Nov. 4 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





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Call 205-542-6094To: LyndaFrom: OTMJDate: May 2011

This is your ad proof for the over the mountain Journal for the may 19, 2011 issue. Please approve, initial and fax to 824-1246 or contact

your sales representative as soon as possible to make changes.

please initial and fax to 824-1246 within 24 hours.

If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad must run as is.


Before you head to the beach come see us!

the Korduroy KrocodileHomewood’s Unique Consignment Shop

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Sale 20-50% off select items!

Oak Mountain Elementary School recently won $1,000 for its media center in the

Birmingham Reads Book Drive Challenge.

By collecting more than 4,400 children’s books, more than 10 other participating elementary schools, the students at Oak Mountain were able to ensure the extra funding for their school library. The book drive brought in more than 28,000 books that will be used in Better Basics programs. Better Basics is nonprofit agency dedicated to advancing lit-eracy through reading enrichment and intervention school programs.

The Birmingham Reads Book Drive Challenge was a part of the Birmingham Reads project. Birmingham Reads is a collaborative literacy project of Better Basics, the

Junior League of Birmingham, The Literacy Council and the Children’s Literacy Guild. The project was also sponsored by Books-A-Million, Alabama’s 13, Colonial Brookwood Village and Macy’s. Schools collect-ed books during the month of April as a part of a community-wide book drive that collected a total of more than 28,000 books.

Area businesses also competed in a corporate book drive chal-lenge. Sirote & Permutt was the local firm that generated the most books for the project.

The Birmingham Reads project is in its third year, and includes the Birmingham Reads Book Drive Challenge; Birmingham Reads Day where volunteers visit each Kindergarten through fifth-grade classroom in Birmingham City schools to read a book to the students and to provide a copy of the book for each child; and the Birmingham Reads Celebrates event at Colonial Brookwood Village.

The mission of Better Basics is to make a positive difference in the lives of children and their families by advancing literacy through enrich-ment and intervention programs. For more information about Better Basics, visit www.betterbasics.org or call 205-944-2928. ❖

Advent Students Have Stories Published

Three fifth graders at Advent Episcopal School in Birmingham will be honored by the Grannie Annie Family Story Celebration with publication of their historical family stories in the seventh annual volume of “Grannie Annie,” to be released this month.

Participating students write a story from their family history, based on information they gather by interviewing an older relative. Authors are also invited to submit illustrations with their stories.

Published authors from Advent Episcopal School and their story titles are Maya Cassady, “Obachan’s or Ojichan’s Cooking? The Answer Is Obvious”; Brianna Jones, “Billy the Goat”; and Shelby Lloyd, “Peanuts.”

The Grannie Annie Family Story Celebration, founded by authors and publishers Connie McIntyre and Fran Hamilton, is a nonprofit corporation based in St. Louis, Mo.

The young authors and artists will be honored at an author reading, art show and book signing at Left Bank Books in St. Louis June 2.

RES Hosts Lego ChallengeSome 75 fourth and fifth graders

gathered Feb. 4 at Riverchase Elementary to participate in the third Hoover City Schools Lego Challenge.

The challenge included elementary school contestants and at least 20 middle school Lego-ers who acted as judges and assistants.

Originally, only Riverchase, Greystone and Shades Mountain had “Lego Clubs.” Now, Legos are offered through Bluff Park, Green Valley, Deer Valley, Simmons and Berry Middle Schools.

Robots used in the event are made with Lego Mindstorms, a customizable and programmable robot kit.

In the Lego classes, the students work in teams and learn programming to prepare for the challenges. Most of these classes are held after school.

Some of the programming includes detecting and following a

black line, detecting an obstacle or grabbing an object and moving it away. Contestants and their robots compete in challenges such as turning right or left, picking up speed or parking.

LPMS Math Team Wins at Tournament

The Liberty Park Middle School eighth grade math team recently placed first in the Algebra I Small School Division Category at the Briarwood School Tournament.

Team members are Jimbo Browning, Grace Holley, Caroline

Kirkconnell and Sarah Poff.Individual awards went to Poff,

first place, and Browning, third place.

Competing teams were from North and Central Alabama. Each student took a 25-question test and answered 20 ciphering questions.

Brett Richards is the eighth grade math team sponsor.

Elizabeth Hale Is Miss Heritage

Elizabeth Hale was named Miss Heritage at Homewood High School’s annual beauty walk.

The school’s yearbook staff sponsors the pageant. All proceeds from contestants’ registration fees, ticket sales and donations go toward the production of the yearbook, “The Heritage.”

Winners can come from all grade levels, with class queens chosen from each grade as well as the Miss Heritage winner.

Contestants participate in interviews before the pageant and deliver a prepared statement onstage. ❖

32 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAlSchoolS

To: Allyn HolladayFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: Dec 2009

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the December 17, 2009 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





Virginia College is hiring!Virginia College, Online Programs continues to grow and

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If you have a passion for helping college students change their lives and if you would like to be a part of an expanding college with its face to the future, please contact us, now.

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To: Mary Charles RobbinsFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: May 2010

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the June 3, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.





New, Collectible Antique Dolls

Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm

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Presenting the check to Oak Mountain Elementary for winning the Birmingham Reads Book Drive Challenge are, in front from left: Erin Sproull, Benny Bailey and Abby Sandidge. Back: Karen Kapp, Rebecca Sandidge and Melissa Bailey. Photo special to the Journal

OME School Wins the Birmingham Reads Book Drive Challenge

Up for the Challenge

School Notes

Several fourth and fifth graders at Riverchase Elementary School students recently competed in Hoover City Schools Lego Challenge. Photo special to the Journal

Members of the Liberty Park Math Team include from left: Caroline Kirkconnell, Grace Holley, James Browning and Sarah Poff.

Photo special to the

Journal

Elizabeth Hale

The Berry Singers placed first in the annual Smoky Mountain Music Festival. The group of 20 made the trek to East Tennessee the weekend of April 21, where they competed with teams from South Carolina, Missouri, Mississippi, Maryland, Indiana and Tennessee. Cissy Johnson is choir director.


Berry SingerS Are TopS AT FeSTivAl

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 33OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL SPORTS

Titans Win Fourth Straight Basketball Title The Mountain Brook Titans defeated Homewood 29-26 for the OTM fifth-grade basketball championship recently. This is the fourth consecutive title for the Titans. Members of the team include, from left, front: Collin Bussman, Champ Lyons, John Marks and Robert Reed. Back: James Burkett, Park Mendelsohn, Paul Tyson, Colton Yeager, Joe Saia and Coach John London.Twisters Win National Tournament

The Alabama Twisters Eighth Grade Elite won first place at the Nashville Music City National Prep Girlʼs Invitational recently. Team members are: Jailyn Maddox, Kendra Langham and Haley Wandry, Hoover; Jordan Lenoir, Thompson; Jessica Compton, Vestavia; Elizabeth Philpot, Spain Park; Paige Pruet and Kelsi Hobbs, John Carroll. Coachers are: Michael Pruet, Derrick Maddox and John Hobbs.

Cavs’ Green Hits MilestoneClay Green became only the third boysʼ soccer player in the history of John Carroll Catholic High School to score 100 career goals on April 14. A forward, Clay has helped John Carroll to three AHSAA State Championships (see story page 36).

Christian Smoke scored an unas-sisted goal after 11 minutes had elapsed to give Altamont a 1-0 advantage. The Raiders battled back to tie the score when Bob Chappell sent a ball past Altamont goalkeeper Brindon Sutton to even things at 1-1 at the half.

The Knights dominated the second half, scoring two unanswered goals. With 27 minutes left to play, Steve Cochrun scored an unassisted goal to put Altamont back in front 2-1. The icing on the cake came six minutes later when Christopher Haberstroh scored, with an assist from Kees

Devos. Haberstroh’s kick went over the Raider goalkeeper’s head and sailed into the goal.

“It was kind of like magic,” said Altamont coach Sean Gibson. “The ball just floated and bent into the right corner.”

Haberstroh was named tournament MVP.

“All of our earlier playoff games were decided by one goal,” he said. “It was nice to take a little of the pressure off of us and get that last goal late in the game.”

The Knights finished their season with a 20-3-4 record – and their third state soccer championship in school history.

Altamont reached the finals on

the strength of a 1-0 victory over Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP) of Montgomery the previ-ous day. Smoke scored the game’s only goal after taking a pass from Haberstroh.

In girls’ Class 1A-4A play, Indian Springs fell to Montgomery Academy 5-1. Laura McMullan’s goal gave ISS an early lead but didn’t deter the Lady Eagles from scoring five consecutive goals.

“We had seen some tape of Montgomery Academy and executed our first scoring play in the first three minutes perfectly,” said Indian Springs coach Hunter Gray. “We felt like geniuses there for a while, but Montgomery came right back.”

ALTAMONT,from back cover

Barons, Civitans Team Up for ClinicBirmingham Barons baseball players shared baseball tips with some 45 stu-

dents and adults with disabilities at an April 23 clinic at Wald Park.Students from Vestavia Hills Elementary Central, Liberty Park Middle

School, Pizitz Middle School and Vestavia Hills High School and adults from the Exceptional Foundation participated in the clinic.

Barons players taught baseball fundamentals such as batting, base running and fielding. The campers also participated in a game, spent time with the Barons players after the clinic and took home autographed baseballs.

The clinic was sponsored by the Vestavia Hills Civitan Club and the Barons.

Enjoying a day with the Baronʼs Domaso Espino, front row left, and Jared Mitchell back row center, are students from Ms. Youngʼs and Ms. Johnsonʼs classes: Davis Spain Jake Pratt, Daniel Morson, Anna Bishop, Pete Peddy, David Harrison, Harrison Washington, Thad Smith, Anna Fulkerson and Christian Hayes. More photos at otmj.com Journal photo by Tommy Wald

Steven Cochrun (21), makes a play in Altamontʼs title win over Randolph High School. Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Three-peat for Mtn. Brook Jr. High Golf Team The Mountain Brook Mtn. Brook Jr. High golf team finished another unde-

feated season recenlty by winning the Metro South Golf Championship. This marks the third year in a row the school has won the title.

The team finished with an 8-0 record. Ben Fuller and Jonathan Eyster both made the All- Metro team and Coach Bob Plummer was selected as the Metro Coach of the year.

Mountain Brook Jr. High golf team members are from left, front: Chandler Pulliam, Ben Fuller, Thomas McMahon, Willis Hagan, Will Bryant and Harlan Winn. Back: Coach Bob Plummer, Eland Anthony, John Gross, Matthew Parker, Hugh Rowe Thomas and Jonathan Eyster.

Members of the Mountain Brook Jr. High boys tennis team, from left, front: Edward OʼNeal, John Darby, Paul Jones, Charlie Cope, David Faulkner, Yates Jackson, Connor Morgan, Sam Jeffcoat, Richmond Adams and Seth Cohen. Mebers of the Mountain Brook Jr. High girls tennis team, from left, back: Gabby Turnbough, Julie Lowe, Ellie Polk, Delia Vandevelde, Kathryn Sours, Sarah Cooper, Helen Catherine Darby, Anna Ingram, Margaret Anne Clark and Morgan Jenkins.

The Mountain Brook Jr. High girls and boys finished undefeated in Metro League play with perfect 10-0 records.

The boys team finished ahead of Hewitt-Trussville, Pizitz and Berry middle schools.

The girls team finished ahead of Simmons, Berry and Pizitz.

Kathryn Sours, Margaret Anne Clark, Ellie Polk, Helen Catherine Darby and Morgan Jenkins finished first in singles. Anna Ingram and Julie Lowe finished first in the doubles position.

For the boys, Paul Jones, Sam Jeffcoat, Connor Morgan and Richmond Adams placed first in singles and Charlie Cope and Seth Cohen finished first at doubles.

Mountain Brook Jr. High Boys and Girls Tennis Finish Season Undefeated, Win Metro

34 • Thursday, May 17, 2012 OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALSPORTS

Vestavia Boys LAXTeam Wins State

Vestavia Blue U13 defeated Hoover White U13 Boys by a score of 13-1 to win the State Championship on May 5th.

Vestavia Blue finished their season with a 13-0 win record going 10-0 during the regular

season.This is the teams second consecutive unde-

feated Spring season. All the teams in their division were from the Birmingham area, except two Huntsville teams. There are 15 teams in the Greater Birmingham Youth Lacrosse Association’s U13 Boys division including two from Vestavia, three each from Mountain Brook and Hoover, and one each from Briarwood, Oak Mountain and Homewood.

meter and the 300-meter hurdles and also was part of the Bucs’ first place-winning 1600-meter relay team.

Spain Park’s Joseph Williams won the discus throw and shot put events, and the Jags’ Brandon Hazouri took first in the 1600- and 3200-meter dashes.

In Class 5A, another standout was John Carroll Catholic’s Rachel Roberts, who won the 1600- and 3200-meter runs. And as always, there were plenty of other outstanding area performances at the big and small school state meets.

For sheer intensity and sus-pense, you’d be hard pressed to find anything better than the Class 6A baseball playoffs that involved Over the Mountain teams. In four epic series – Spain Park-Vestavia Hills, Hoover-Pelham, Spain Park-Pelham and finally Spain Park-Oak Mountain – the winner was not determined until the third and deciding game, often in the last inning, and sometimes even

on the final pitch. People who say that baseball is boring and outdated should have attended a game in any of those classic matchups, where there was drama during practically every at-bat.

At the end, however, Coach Will Smith’s Jaguars probably earned the loudest applause. They won tight

battles with the Rebels and Panthers before finally bowing in the state semifinals against the Oxford Yellow Jackets. Efforts of star players such as Colton Freeman and Mikey White will likely leave a foundation of suc-cess at Spain Park which will last for years.

The Vestavia boys and Mountain Brook girls – as usual – turned in dominating performances to win state championships in tennis.

And then there is the unfinished story of the Vestavia softball team, which will face Theodore in the first round of the state tournament Friday. The Lady Rebels posted a stunning 53-7 record as they steamrolled their way to Lagoon Park.

Vestavia heads to the tourna-ment off its own dramatic moment, as freshman Caroline Hardy’s grand slam gave her team a 9-6 win over Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa in the North Central Regional final at Liberty Park Saturday.

The Lady Rebel victory machine has been fueled by many standouts, including senior catcher Hannah Taylor, who has been a star for Vestavia since she was in the eighth grade. Rebecca Hein leads the Lady Rebel pitching staff with a 24-3 record. The team’s final chapter will be written this week: You might be able to color it blue (as in trophy).

Another classic moment in soft-

ball was Oak Mountain’s 2-1 upset of Hoover and ace pitcher Marcy Harper in the Area 10 tournament. The Lady Eagles’ magic faded in the North Central Regionals, but Oak Mountain’s strong May run will be long remembered.

Golf championships will also be determined this week.

Spring may be a time when many a man’s fancy turns to love, but in 2012, springtime meant unending excitement on the field, the court and the track.

Nominations Wanted…In a few weeks, the Over the

Mountain Journal will announce its choices for the Boy and Girl Athletes of the Year for the 2011-12 academic year. Any athlete who participated in varsity competition for an Over the Mountain high school is eligible for consideration.

We welcome reader nominations. Please send them to: Athlete of the Year, c/o Over the Mountain Journal, 2016 Columbiana Road, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216.

MAY DAYS,from back cover

The Vestavia Hills state championship tennis team includes, from left: Jack Patton, Cabel Cantrell, Jack Rayburn, John Morson, Leo Richard, Jeffrey Holcombe, Coach Adam Kolasa, Paul Taylor, Garrett Fallon, Jake Bivin, Hall Cartledge and Ziqi Wang. This is the schoolʼs second consecutive state tennis title. Photo special to the Journal

Members of the Mountain Brook Lacrosse team are, in front, Charlie Fell. Kneeling, from left: John Annesley DeGaris, Graham LeJuene, Taylor Carson, Carter McAlpin, Crawford Tindle and Will Toranto. Standing: Asst Coach Tom Clark, Asst Coach Sam Henderson, Porter Williamson, Thomas Byrne, Payne Frost, Banks Henderson, Crawford Clark, Ford Williams, Hays Vogtle, James Pugh, Knox Taylor, Elijah Welman, Mac Campbell, Joe Donald, Philip Dulin, Head Coach Brian Doud and Patrick Doud.

Mountain Brook Wins Lacrosse Title

The Mountain Brook U15 Gold Boys Lacrosse team capped an undefeated sea-son by winning the 2012 Alabama U15

state championship.Mountain Brook won the title with an 8-7

overtime win against Vestavia May 5 at Spain Park Stadium.

The Gold trailed Vestavia 6-3 with six min-utes left in the game, clawed back to within 2 at 7-5 with two minutes left in the game and tied the score at 7 with 30 seconds left to play. Mountain Brook tied the game while serving a penalty, forcing it to play with one less player.

The Gold won the game with 1:49 left in overtime, also with one less player due to a pen-alty.

The game-tying and game-winning goals were scored by attackman Crawford Tindle, an eighth grader at Mountain Brook Junior High School. Midfielder John Annesley DeGaris, an MBJH seventh grader, scored three goals and dished out two assists.

Brine National All-Star attackman Mac Campbell scored two goals, and attackman Taylor Carson scored one goal and had three assists in the victory. Both are MBJH eighth graders.

DeGaris was named the game’s Most

Valuable Player.During the season, Mountain Brook was led

on offense by Campbell, who finished the season with 55 points, recording 39 goals and 16 assists. His 39 goals led the Greater Birmingham Youth Lacrosse Association U15 League.

Also for the season, DeGaris recorded 41 points, scoring 20 goals and dishing out 21 assists; Tindle had 38 points, netting 30 goals and making eight assists; and Carson had 29 points, recording 17 goals and 12 assists.

The Mountain Brook defense gave up only 38 goals during the season, which averaged to less than three goals a game. The defense was led by goalie Thomas Byrne, an eighth grader at Mountain Brook Junior High School; Brine National All-Star defenseman Patrick Doud, an MBJH eighth grader; and Brine National All-Star defenseman Hays Vogtle, an MBJH seventh grader.

The team also included attackmen Will Toranto and Elijah Welman; midfielders Joe Donald, Philp Dulin, Charles Fell, Payne Frost, Graham LeJuene, Carter McAlpin and Knox Taylor; and defensemen Banks Henderson, James Pugh, Ford Williams and Porter Williamson.

McAlpin attends Hewitt-Trussville Middle School; other team members are Mountain Brook Junior High students.

Mountain Brook’s head coach is Brian Doud. He was assisted by Tom Clark and Sam Henderson.

Members of the Vestavia Blue U13 team are, from left, front: Marshall Powell, Joseph Travis, Lucas Heslin, Robert Hill, Will Wesnor, Miller Shamblin, Jake Reiber and Daniel Alonso. Second row: Connor Wheeler, Matthew Bates, Alex Ferguson, Graham Thompson, Trip Gurner, James Edwards, Jacob Edwards, Will Philpot and Coach Jamie Edwards. Back: Coach Jim Hill, Rob Evans, Cameron Sandford, Coach Mark Reiber and Coach Andrew Lumbard (not pictured).

Vestavia Girls Win Title

The Vestavia fourth and fith-grade girls, with a record of 8-0-1, finished their season by beating Hoover to win the state lacrosse championship. Team members are from left, front: Haley Souders, Katherine Lipford, Hayden Souders, Laura Hatten Rell and Ellington Wesson. Back: Gracie Crosswhite, Sarah Kate DeCarlo, Liz Whisenhunt, Emma Isbell, Olivia Nelson, Mary Katherine Smyth, Christina Edwards. The team is coached by Tom DeCarlo.

Thursday, May 17, 2012 • 35OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL SPORTS

“It’s not a good feeling to lose,” said Eagle coach Ryan Patridge. “But all credit has to go to Auburn. They are a good team and a worthy cham-pion.”

The Oak Mountain boys ended the season with a 21-4-2 mark.

If the Oak Mountain girls made history by winning their first-ever Class 6A soccer championship with the win over Auburn, they also made history with the way they won their first title. With only 16 minutes left in a scoreless contest, Oak Mountain defender Christina Rodriguez decided it was her time to make a move.

Instead of staying in the backfield, as defenders normally do, she moved the ball to the middle of the field. Near the penalty box, Rodriguez passed to teammate Vicki Hill. As Rodriguez moved back to her defen-sive position, Hill drew a foul to get the opportunity to score with a pen-alty kick.

Then Hill calmly booted the ball past the Auburn goalkeeper for the game’s only score.

Oak Mountain turned conservative after taking the lead, holding the ball in corners to run out the clock.

“We didn’t want to give anything away,” said Lady Eagle senior Haley

Gerken. “We were trying to be patient and not give up anything stupid in the middle of the field.”

The strategy worked, and the Oak Mountain girls took home their first blue soccer trophy – ever.

Oak Mountain earned its way into the boys’ championship game with a dramatic shootout victory over top-ranked Vestavia Hills. The Eagles and Rebels were truly a pair fit to be tied as they battled through regulation play, two overtime periods and six pairs of shootout kicks.

Oak Mountain goalkeeper Brad Louis stopped Vestavia’s first shot of the second round to give the Eagles the 4-3 upset, after being tied 1-1 after regulation play. Louis had also stopped another Rebel shot in the first round of the shootout.

Islam Karimov scored to give Vestavia a 1-0 lead in the first half. Patrick Carroll’s goal evened the score in the second half.

The Rebels ended their season with a 26-3 record.

“I couldn’t be prouder of a team,” said Patridge. “It was a heck of a game. I’ve been here five times (in the championship round), and this is the most intense game I’ve seen from an emotional standpoint.”

The Oak Mountain girls reached the finals by beating top-ranked Huntsville 1-0. Vicki Hill earned the only goal of the game.

“We played like we had all year,” said Lady Eagles coach Pete Dakis. “I got everything I asked our players to do. We like to possess the ball and use our speed.”

Huntsville had a golden oppor-tunity to score in the first half, but Oak Mountain’s Madison Brigham knocked the ball away from the goal.

“They (Huntsville) are a fantastic team,” said Dakis. “They gave us a couple of opportunities, and we capi-talized on one of them. Fortunately, that was all we needed.”

put the ball in the net to tie the score 1-1.

The deadlock was broken late in the con-test, as Green again tried to get the ball to Holcombe. In an odd twist, the ball bounced off a Cullman defender and rolled into the net for an own-goal.

“You’ve got to give Cullman a lot of credit,” said DiPiazza. “They came out and took it to us. But I’m happy to get the win.”

He would be even happier the next day to get the biggest win of all.

In Class 5A girls’ play, Briarwood was eliminated by Athens 5-2. The Lady Lions drew first blood when Savannah Penny scored after team-mate Katherine Smith’s shot was blocked by the Golden Eagles.

Athens fought back, however, to score five consecutive goals before

Briarwood’s Sarah Smeltzer nailed a long-range goal for the game’s final point.

The Lady Lions ended their season with a 13-6-2 mark.

OAK MOUNTAIN,from back cover

CARROLL,from back cover

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

After a thrilling win over Oxford in the first game of the state 6A baseball semifinals at home

Friday night, the Spain Park Jaguars had every reason to think they were a team of destiny.

Even after losing a close decision in the second game of the series, the Jaguars still had plenty of reasons to believe 2012 was going to have a happy ending. And with a little luck, it still might have happened.

But luck was sitting elsewhere in the third and deciding game Saturday morning. Spain Park gave up three unearned runs in the first inning and never recovered as the Yellow Jackets took a 4-1 victory.

Oxford moves on to play Fairhope for the Class 6A championship in Montgomery. The Jaguars ended their season with a 35-17 worksheet.

“We did things we haven’t done all year,” said Spain Park coach Will Smith after the game. “We let a ground ball become an infield hit. We blew a ground ball double play opportunity. We gave up a walk. When you get down like that early, it’s hard to come back against a team that has good pitch-ers like Oxford.”

The hard-luck first inning put Spain Park in a deep hole. The Jaguars also hurt themselves by leaving eight run-ners stranded on base in just the first five innings. Five of the runners were in scoring position.

Yellow Jacket pitchers Zachary Lovvorn and Frazier Taylor kept the Spain Park bats in check for most of the

game. Lovvorn pitched three innings and gave up only one hit while striking out five batters. Taylor also fanned five Jaguars.

Spain Park got only five hits off Oxford, including Grant Veteto’s RBI single in the third inning to score his team’s only run.

“We tried to make too many things happen,” said Jaguar senior pitcher/shortstop Mikey White. “We should have just let things happen.”

Spain Park opened the series the previous day with a 3-2 victory. Jaguar starting pitcher Hunter Hall set a school record by earning his ninth win of the season. Veteto sparked Spain Park’s offense with a home run. Josh Close’s spectacular catch of a line drive ended a late Oxford rally, and Colton Freeman scored the game-winning run.

The Jaguars seemed on the verge of a sweep in game two, as they led the Yellow Jackets 4-0 in the sixth inning. Freeman, a senior who will play at the University of Alabama next season, was

pitching the game of his life, tossing five no-hit innings and earning his 12th strikeout in the sixth frame.

But Oxford battled back, loading the bases on two walks and an error. Freeman finally surrendered his first hit when Joseph McGuire singled.

White replaced Freeman on the mound but couldn’t stop the Yellow Jacket comeback. Trent Simpson’s triple scored three runs and set the stage for Oxford’s 5-4 victory to tie the series.

“It was pretty wild stuff, and that’s just what you can expect in the play-offs,” said Freeman. “You have to tip your hat to Oxford. They beat us, but I feel like we kind of gave it to them.”

Spain Park coach Will Smith was philosophical at the time.

“Don’t make any plans for Saturday when Spain Park is in the playoffs,” he said. “With us, it seems to always come down to the third game.”

Smith was right, but this time the third spin of the wheel came up short for the Jaguars.

Rain on Spain Jaguars Fall to Oxford, See Title Hopes End

Spain Parkʼs Paul Angel is tagged out at home by Oxford catcher Alex Muncher. More photos at otmj.com Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Oak Mountainʼs Vicki Hill, above, provided the only scoring in the championship game when she scored on a penalty kick.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

BY LEE DAVIS


Hoover track and field coach Devon Hind had a problem after the state 6A outdoor

championships May 4-5 at Gulf Shores.

He had to decide which blue tro-phy would first go into the school’s enormous glass trophy case.

Of course, a problem like that is any coach’s dream. It meant his Buccaneer boys’ and girls’ teams swept the field, earning two more pieces of championship hardware.

The Hoover boys totaled 100 points to easily outdistance second place Auburn’s 71 score. Spain Park was third with 66 points.

Hind’s Buccaneer girls scored 107 points to outpace runner-up Mountain Brook’s 86 total.

Last week’s victory marked Hoover’s fourth consecutive boys’ outdoor track and field title and the girls’ second championship in three years.

“We came down here thinking we had a shot at winning both titles,” said Hind. “On the girls’ side, we kind of limped through the second day, but we had enough of a cushion to win.”

Hoover’s boys were sparked by their 1600-meter relay team, which set a state record with its winning time of 3:15.65. The relay four-some was made up of Jarrett Brown, Alonzo Steele, Marlon Humphrey and Nigel Cribbs.

Other winners for the Hoover boys included Sam Snell, pole vault; Nigel Cribbs, 400-meter dash; and Humphrey, 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles.

Other Over the Mountain win-ners in boys’ 6A included Joseph

Williams, Spain Park, discus throw and shot put; Kevin Shannon, Vestavia Hills, javelin throw; and Brandon Hazouri, Spain Park, 1600-meter and 3200-meter runs. Mountain Brook won the 3200-meter relay run.

In Class 5A boys, three Briarwood athletes had outstanding events. Kalen Reed won the long jump and 110-meter hurdles, Will Edwards won the javelin throw and Sam Whorton won the pole vault. John Carroll’s Griffin Lee won the 3200-meter run in Class 5A.

Individual winners from Hoover in Class 6A girls’ competition includ-ed Chardonae Fuqua, high jump; Breona Humphrey, 400-yard dash; and Chalandra Gooden, 100-meter hurdles.

Winners from other area Class 6A schools included Kiara Williams, Homewood, long jump, and Simone Charley, Spain Park, triple jump. Mountain Brook won the 1600-meter relay.

In Class 5A girls’ competition, John Carroll Catholic’s Rachel Roberts won the 1600- and 3200-meter runs, and the Lady Cavs’ Meaghan McCarrick won the shot put event.

In Class 2A competition in Selma, Altamont’s Pranav Krishnan took victories in the boys’ 800- and 1600-meter runs. The Knights finished fifth in overall competition. The Lady Knights’ Taylor Young won the 300-meter run as Altamont finished sev-enth in the girls’ team standings.

Westminster-Oak Mountain took runner-up positions behind Cedar Bluff in both boys’ and girls’ team competitions in Class 1A.

Andrew Carrell of Westminster won the 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles in boys’ action. The Westminster boys’ relay teams won the 1600- and 3200-relay runs.

John Carrollʼs Marc Gonzalez hits the ball as St. Paulʼs Carter Albrecht defends in the 5A state soccer finals.


Orange DoubleHoover Boys’, Girls’ Track Teams Sweep 6A Meet

Lee Davis

Jaguars Fall to Oxford P. 35Hoover Boys’, Girls’ Track Teams Sweep 6A Meet P. 35Mtn. Brook and Vestavia Win LAX State Titles P. 34

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNALTHURSDAY, MAY 17, 2012 Sports

May DaysSpring Sports Bring Many Area Highlights

The 2012 spring sports season isn’t over yet, with Vestavia Hills’ softball team bat-

tling for the 6A championship at Montgomery’s Lagoon Park this weekend. The drama of the Lady Rebels’ impressive run will be con-cluded in due time, but it’s not too early to look at other highlights of the spring season.

As usual, this area produced a plethora of state soccer champions. John Carroll Catholic’s boys won the program’s 10th state championship in Class 5A, and the Oak Mountain girls won their first-ever soccer crown in Class 6A. The Altamont boys brought home their first blue trophy since 2009 in the 1A-4A classification.

Oak Mountain’s boys came close, losing a 1-0 heartbreaker to Auburn in the Class 6A finals. In the previous game, the Eagles upset top-ranked Vestavia. The Briarwood girls also made it to the Class 5A semifinals before losing.

Maybe the most interesting side-story for any of the champions was the amazing scoring duel between teammates Clay Green and Reece Holcomb of John Carroll. Green fin-ished the season with 55 goals, with Holcomb scoring 54. Their combined total of 109 goals made the two seniors by far the most impressive one-two punch in Alabama soccer.

Equally inspiring was seeing the Oak Mountain girls finally claim a title. The Lady Eagles have been perennial contenders for the state’s top soccer prize almost since the program’s inception. After years of coming close, Oak Mountain finally claimed the title. Expect the Lady Eagles to make another strong run next season.

Gulf Shores was the site of this year’s Class 6A state track and field meet, so it wouldn’t be surprising if the Hoover boys’ and girls’ teams have developed a taste for seafood. The Buccaneer boys won their fourth consecutive title, while the Hoover girls took their second state champi-onship in four years.

A two-time individual winner for the Hoover boys was Marlon Humphrey, who was first in the 110-

See MAY DAYS, page 34

Eagle Boys Fall Just Short BY LEE DAVIS


The Oak Mountain and Auburn soccer pro-grams squared off for two state champion-ships last Saturday, and by nightfall, each

school was taking home a single championship trophy.

Auburn’s boys’ team denied the Eagles a sec-ond consecutive state title by taking a hard-fought 1-0 victory at the John Hunt Soccer Complex in Huntsville. In a bizarre twist, the Lady Eagles got a measure of turnabout, taking the girls’ title from the Lady Tigers by an identical score of 1-0.

The victory marked Oak Mountain’s first girls’ soccer state crown.

Logan Hill’s shot over Oak Mountain goal-keeper Brad Louis provided the winning margin in the boys’ final.

Above: Oak Mountainʼs Haley Gerken and her teammates with their 6A state championship trophy. Below right: Oak Mountainʼs David DePriest (9) goes for the ball along with Auburnʼs Jorge Herrera (4). More photos at otmj.com Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

EAGLEʼS SOAROak Mountain Girls Reach New Heights with First-ever Title

Carroll KingsCavs Rout Saints, Win 10th State Class 5A Soccer TitleBY LEE DAVIS


Alabama’s greatest soccer dynasty added one more jewel to its trophy case at the John Hunt Complex in Huntsville Saturday.

The John Carroll Catholic boys’ soccer team routed St. Paul’s 4-1 to claim the Class 5A state championship. It’s the 10th time the Cavaliers have claimed a blue trophy for the sport the rest of the world calls “football.”

Carroll was led by its high-scoring duo, seniors Clay Green and Reece Holcomb. The two combined for an amazing 109 goals in 2012, with Green earn-ing 55 and Holcomb just one behind.

“I’m going to miss those guys,” said Cavalier coach David DiPiazza. “One hundred and nine goals is something. They go out there and do what they have to do, and that’s put the ball in the net.”

Thirteen minutes after the game started, Green began Carroll’s charge by scoring a goal. Moments later – incredibly -- he scored again. Taking advan-tage of a stumble by the St. Paul goalkeeper, Green kicked the ball into an unguarded goal for an easy score.

“That moment could have changed the game,” said DiPiazza. “It gave us confidence and might have had an effect on St. Paul’s.”

Before halftime, Ethan Mergen’s goal off of Green’s assist gave John Carroll a 3-0 halftime lead.

In the second half, Holcombe scored off yet another Green assist to stretch the Cavs’ lead to 4-0.

“We took advantage of our opportunities,” said Green. “When we did that, it may have taken the air out of their sails.”

DiPiazza’s team ended its championship season with a 27-3-1 record.

John Carroll reached the championship final by virtue of a 2-1 victory over Cullman the previous day. After spotting the Bearcats 1-0 at halftime, the Cavaliers rallied. Green passed to Holcombe, who

John Carrollʼs Kevin Terry (5) hits the ball against Saint Paul. More photos at otmj.com Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

BY LEE DAVIS


At the Altamont School, soccer fans are party-ing like it’s 2009 this week.

That’s because their boys’ soccer team

won its first state Class 1A-4A championship in three years.

The Knights earned the title with a 3-1 victory over Randolph at Huntsville’s John Hunt Soccer Complex Saturday.

See CARROLL, page 35

See OAK MOUNTAIN, page 35

Members of the Altamont School boys soccer team celebrate their state soccer championship. More photos at otmj.com


Knight School Altamont Boys Claim Class 1A-4A Title

See ALTAMONT, page 33

over the mountain journal may 20, 2012

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