280 Living September 2024

The power to save

By SARAH OWENS

Tracie Blackmon and Thea Dudley are members of a club they never asked to join, one to which nobody ever hopes to get an invitation. Even though they never wished to be numbered among the family members who have survived a loved one’s suicide, Blackmon and Dudley are glad they found others who understand their pain. Both women got involved in suicide prevention after attending an Out of the Darkness Walk hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

“At that walk, I found people that knew what I had been through,” Blackmon said. “They weren’t looking at me in any kind of judging way. I didn’t have to worry about them saying anything weird; they just got it.”

Blackmon, who lives off of Cahaba Valley Road, was 7 years old when she lost her mother, Judy, to suicide in 1982. Because of the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health at the time, and with a father who didn’t believe in counseling even after her mother’s death, she struggled to cope with the loss.

As a result, Blackmon suffered from her own mental health issues, even attempting

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

The storm came with a display of children’s books. Books like “Juliane is a Mermaid,” “Mr. Watson’s Chickens” and “Grandad’s Camper.”

The books stood upright on a threeshelf display, along with an 8.5-by-11inch laminated sign that said “Take Pride in Reading.” All of the books selected had either an LGBTQ+ theme or messages of acceptance.

For the last 13 years, the staff at the North Shelby Library had displayed

suicide herself on multiple occasions. It wasn’t until she became an adult and began learning about the psychology behind mental illnesses and suicide that she started to make sense of what had happened.

“I finally broke down to my dad at some point when I was an adult, and I was like, ‘Just tell me about her. You always just say you don’t know why she did it.’

books in the adult, young adult and children’s sections coinciding with Pride Month, an annual June recognition of the LGBTQ+ community, without objection. But, in 2023, the objections came in force to the community library — a backlash that would see the library board removed, six employees leave (including the library director) and a new board of trustees installed by members of the state Legislature.

Inside this issue: ► Suicide among senior citizens on the rise, see page 24. ► Trauma, isolation, a choice: Veterans wage mental battle, see page 26. ► Those affected by Chelsea suicides seek to help in aftermath, see page 27.

New members of the Shelby County Library board are sworn in by Judge Matt Fridy in July. Pictured from left are: Andy Martin, Paul Garris, Kasandra Stevens and Sam Gaston. Photo by Taylor Bright.

Appointment to start

living better. Make an

Better living starts with taking good care of yourself. At Grandview Medical Group, our primary care providers take the time to identify your health risks and can help you prioritize good health. Regular checkups and age-appropriate screenings are important to be healthy now – and to stay well in the future.

With same-day appointments and online scheduling, we make it easy to make an appointment right now. You can even see us from the comfort of home via telehealth.

Put your health first and start living better right now. Make an appointment at PrimaryCareAppointments.com/grandview, scan the code or call 205-971-DOCS.

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Editor’s Note By Taylor Bright

In this month’s issue, we have a special series of stories on a difficult subject. Some of you may know that September is National Suicide Prevention Month. It is not an easy subject to talk about, but one thing those who have been touched by suicide and experts agree on, is the importance of taking the discussion about suicide — and the mental health issues that go with it — from the shadows to the light. In that vein, we have written about the effects of suicide and the actions people are taking to prevent the number of suicides we have in our communities. Please take a moment to read the stories of those we have lost and the loved ones they left behind.

to hear more directly from our readers about what’s going on along 280. Do you know someone who should be featured in 280 Living?

Do you know of an interesting business or organization that you would like to see featured? Or do you know of a story that you think should be covered that maybe isn’t right now? If you do, please contact me directly at tbright@starnesmedia.com, and I would be happy to include your ideas in 280 Living.

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Cahaba Dermatology and Skin Care Center (B5)

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Chelsea getting first EV charging station

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

Chelsea will soon be getting its first electric vehicle charging station. Mayor Tony Picklesimer said the station will be at Melrose Park, where there is a playground and the Splash Pad.

The city applied for a grant for the station through Innovate Alabama, a public-private partnership that has been tasked with promoting economic development with an emphasis on technology.

The city originally had planned on applying for eight stations, but due to demand of the Innovate Alabama grant program, they trimmed their request to two to four stations. Ultimately, they were granted $65,000, enough for a single station.

Picklesimer said the station will be able to charge two vehicles at a time and have Wi-Fi connectivity, so people will be able to connect their cars or laptops to the internet while they’re charging their car.

Picklesimer said the Splash Pad was a perfect place to put the charging station, since parents are usually waiting while their children play at the park.

“So that’s a place that a mom could pump up while the kids are on the playground and at the Splash Pad,” he said.

In other council news:

The City Council voted unanimously at the Aug. 6 meeting to accept a bid to expand the parking lot at the County Road 11 sports complex.

Picklesimer said when there are multiple activities at the complex, the parking is “grossly inadequate,” with people parking along the road after the capacity of 40 vehicles has been filled at the complex. He said the addition would double the number of parking spots to 80.

The city was able to leverage available land it had at the complex, saving the city money. Because of the topography of the land, he said, site preparation would be minimal. Overall, the project will cost $200,000, with an expected time of completion 60 days from when the work is approved by the council.

The council also voted to continue a moratorium on certain businesses being built in Chelsea. Picklesimer said the moratorium was focused on self-storage facilities.

“We feel like we have enough,” he said.

The moratorium will extend a further year and will need to be renewed next year to continue.

The council voted to donate $10,000 to 3R Rodeo for the Bikes 4 Kids rodeo, held annually in Chelsea. Picklesimer said the rodeo fills in a slot for a fall event for the city. The rodeo, which has drawn thousands of attendees, donates proceeds to provide bicycles to children and will be held this year from Sept. 27-28.

The splash pad at Melrose Park will soon be home to Chelsea’s first EV charging station. Photo by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

9.26.2024 | 5:30PM

RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE

Daughter of George W. Bush, 43rd President of the United States. Entrepreneur. Humanitarian. Author. Head of Social R esponsibility for the NBA.

Stay hydrated with the waterworks Waterboy initiative

Wilson serves as the Shelby County deputy county manager, working alongside Chad Scroggins, at the Shelby County Commission Office in Columbiana.

Q&A with Shelby County’s new deputy county manager

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

Jesslan Wilson, the new deputy county manager for Shelby County, started her job on May 6. The U.S. 280 resident sat down with 280 Living to answer questions about her role at the county.

Q: Where are you originally from, and what do you enjoy about living where you are now?

A: I grew up in a small, rural town called Sylvania, located in DeKalb County in Northeast Alabama. It’s about 25 minutes north of Fort Payne, the county seat, and I lived there my entire childhood. It was a great place to grow up, and I’m grateful for my smalltown upbringing — I think it taught me a lot and really shaped my perspectives about the importance of economic and community development. In addition, my dad is actually the county administrator for DeKalb County and has served in that role for years, so I was raised around county government. I think both

his role and growing up where I did have had a significant impact on shaping my passion and interest in having a career in public service.

After graduating from Jacksonville State University, my husband and I moved to the Birmingham area. I attended UAB for my master’s degree program, and we ended up settling in Trussville. I recently moved to Shelby County off Highway 280, and it has been a great place to land. My favorite part so far has been how close I am to outdoor assets like Oak Mountain State Park and Double Oak Park.

Q: What role were you in before, and what brought you to your current position?

A: Before working for the county, I worked at the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham (RPCGB) as the director of economic development. The RPCGB is a regional council of government that serves six counties in the Greater Birmingham area, and I had the opportunity to work with many cities and towns in Shelby County in that capacity. My role at RPCGB was primarily focused on

assisting communities to prepare and plan for economic development projects, and one of the factors that interested me about this position was the opportunity to work on and implement projects on a local level.

Q: What’s your favorite part about the new job?

A: Honestly, my favorite part of the job so far has been the people. Shelby County has incredible staff, officials and partners who are dedicated to making the lives of residents better, and that has been energizing for me since my first day. I feel very honored and excited to be a part of the team here. Another part of the job I’ve enjoyed so far is how engaging working in local government is — there are so many facets to the county’s operations, and it’s been a lot of fun learning about how everything interconnects.

Q: What has been an adjustment in the new role?

A: I think the biggest learning curve for me so far has been gaining an in-depth understanding

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of the county operations I mentioned earlier. The county has so many different aspects to it, and, though I have learned a lot already, I’m sure I’ve only scratched the surface in my first couple of months here.

Q: What goals do you hope to accomplish in your new role?

A: My primary goal for now is being dedicated to learning as much as I can about the county and our operations so I can serve our residents and contribute to our team to the best of my ability.

Q: What impact does the growth in Shelby County have on what you do?

A: I think the continued growth in the county comes with opportunities. The county has really been forward thinking in preparing and planning for the county’s growth, both in terms of population and business development. A part of my role will be working with our team and partners to evaluate and implement strategies that scale the county for this growth, and I’m excited to be a part of that process.

Jesslan

Photo by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

Spain Park coach returns as 2-time Olympian

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

From the boats full of athletes parading down the Seine River to the deafening crowds at the Stade de France to movie stars falling from the sky, the Olympics were showstopping. And Curtis Thompson was there for all of it.

“It was amazing,” said Thompson, the Spain Park High School track and field throws coach. “Definitely amazing. It was a blessing to be a part of that.”

Thompson competed in the javelin throw in front of a raucous crowd at one of the world’s most famous stadia.

“It was definitely up there for one of the great atmospheres for track and field that I’ve competed in around the world,” he said.

The javelin has taken Thompson around the globe. He said he first dreamt of going to the Olympics while throwing javelin at Mississippi State, where he majored in mathematics.

As a competitor, Thompson said the Paris Olympics felt like it was his first Olympics, even though he had competed at the COVID-delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021. He was also able to have his family there to see him.

Unlike the empty venues in Tokyo because of COVID, Thompson was able to perform in front of people in Paris — and a few people in particular, whom he points to as one of the highlights of the games.

“The biggest one, especially from these games, was being able to look into the crowd with some many people there and seeing my family there,” he said.

NBC averaged nearly 31 million viewers a day for the games, an 82% increase from the viewership of the Tokyo games.

While he wasn’t star-struck by any of the celebrities or other athletes, he enjoyed spending time

I

would’ve loved or expected a different outcome. Looking back at it as a whole, I find the positives outweigh the negatives.

CURTIS THOMPSON

with the other competitors who had sacrificed like he had to be there.

“The coolest part was during the opening and closing ceremony was you’re around other Olympians,” he said. “Just to be around so many people like that.”

He would have liked a different outcome to the games on the field, where he threw short of his usual distances and missed moving to the final round, but that hasn’t dampened his drive.

“I would’ve loved or expected a different outcome,” he said. “Looking back at it as a whole, I find the positives outweigh the negatives.”

Thompson said he is going to aim to compete in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. But first he is going to give himself some time to enjoy his experience, then he will get back to training for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he competed in 2021.

The sacrifices that he and other Olympians make to be at the games mean missing trips or time with the family, trying to make ends meet “to continue to chase the dream,” he said.

“You do your best to make it pay off at the end,” he said.

Spain Park throws coach Curtis Thompson poses on the Seine River at the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris. Photo courtesy of Curtis Thompson.

Business Buzz

COMING SOON

Big Drip Auto Spa will be opening soon at 210 Atchison Parkway in Chelsea. Text "BigDrip" to 22322 to find out the opening date and be the first to know about grand opening specials. bigdripautospa.com

Corinne Sweet plans to open the first charcuterie restaurant in the state this fall. Board in Birmingham will be a brick-and-mortar dining option for customers who want a bar, specialty cheeses, meats, pickled vegetables, olives and other choices a charcuterie board offers. They will be able to choose the items on their board, and enjoy it in a comfortable sit-down atmosphere or take it to-go. The restaurant will be located at 5426 U.S. 280, Suite 6, in the Terrace at Greystone shopping center. Sweet hopes to have the restaurant open by mid-September or October, and begin with a small staff on Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Customers can connect with Board in Birmingham through its Facebook page or by phone for more information. 205-261-9853, facebook.com/BoardInBirmingham

NEW OWNERSHIP

Orlando Health, a private, nonprofit healthcare organization that currently serves the Southeastern United States and Puerto Rico, has signed a definitive agreement to purchase Tenet Healthcare’s majority interest in Brookwood Baptist Health, which operates a freestanding emergency department in Tattersall Park and medical offices in The Colonnade and The Narrows, among other facilities. Brookwood Baptist Health was formed in 2015 following a merger agreement between Tenet Healthcare and Baptist

Health System. When the purchase is complete, Orlando Health will manage day-to-day operations of Brookwood Baptist Health in partnership with the Baptist Health System. The name of the system will be Baptist Health, and it will remain a faith-based organization, according to a news release from Orlando Health. Brookwood Baptist Health consists of five hospitals across central Alabama with more than 70 primary and specialty care clinics, approximately 1,500 affiliated physicians and more than 7,300 employees. The transaction is expected to close in the fall of 2024.

brookwoodbaptisthealth.com

RELOCATIONS AND RENOVATIONS

Bassmaster and its parent company, B.A.S.S. LLC, will move its corporate headquarters and 50 associates to the 15,872-square-foot space at the top floor of 31 Inverness Center. B.A.S.S. LLC’s previous corporate office was in Suite 330 of Blue Lake Center, located at 3500 Blue Lake Drive. 31 Inverness Center is located off U.S. 280 in the Inverness office park. B.A.S.S. LLC currently operates the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media. The company has 500,000 members. 205-313-0900, bassmaster.com

NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

America's First Federal Credit Union Board of Directors has announced that Kevin Morris will succeed Bill Connor as president and CEO of AmFirst, effective March 1, 2025. Connor recently announced his intention to retire after 44 years of distinguished service to the credit union. The transition process commenced on Aug. 1, when Morris assumed the title of executive vice president and the role of second executive officer. AmFirst has two local branches, located at 2 Inverness Center Parkway and 3312 Old Columbiana Road in Hoover. amfirst.org

First US Bank has named a new member to its board of directors. Robert C. Field currently serves on multiple boards in Jefferson County and has been elected a director of First US Bancshares Inc. The local branch is at 3291 U.S. 280, Suite 100, in Pump House Plaza. The branch is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-582-1200, fusb.com

Forbes recently named Avadian Credit Union, which has branches at 420 Old U.S. 280 in Greystone, 15660 U.S. 280 in Chelsea and 3439 Colonnade Parkway #100, as one of the top three credit unions in Alabama. Forbes asked credit union members and former members about their level of satisfaction with their credit union, if they would recommend the credit union and to rate it on member service, the quality of the financial advice offered, fee

structures, ease of navigating digital and in-person services and their trust in the credit union. avadiancu.com

ANNIVERSARIES

Pet Paradise has been welcoming furry clients for one year. Located in Tattersall Park, Pet Paradise offers pet grooming, boarding, daycare and full-service veterinary care all in one place. Dogs can enjoy the outdoor, bone-shaped swimming pool and splash pad, synthetic grass play areas, shaded play yard with misting stations and auto-filled fresh water bowls, while the cats can relax in quiet, private condos. Clients can access a live webcam to see their pet during the day. The business is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on the weekend from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 659-674-3036, petparadise.com/birmingham.html

Studio 280 has been open at 9360 Old Highway 280 in Chelsea for one year. The salon stylists provide clients with personalized hair cuts, styles, color services and spray tanning. The salon hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

205-775-0025, studio280salon.square.site

FARM Haus Fitness is celebrating one year open in the Narrows. Clients can sign up for small group memberships, team classes, personal training or virtual memberships. The gym is open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., and clients can find the class schedule online.

205-598-1310, farmhausfitness.com

Salt Clothing Company celebrated one year in June. The boutique, run by a mother-inlaw and daughter-in-law pair, offers clients clothing, jewelry, gifts and more. Shoppers can come by the store at 1801 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 113, Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday until 1:30 p.m.

205-238-5926, saltclothingco.co

Beauty Diva has been open at 4647 U.S. 280, Suite Q, for one year. The store carries beauty supplies including wigs, makeup, salon color, stylist tools and much more. Customers can shop Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

205-460-1140, Beauty DIVA 280 on Facebook

SPOTLIGHT

SweetFrog offers more than 100 base yogurt flavors

By CHARLES VAUGHAN

SweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt is located in The Village at Lee Branch along U.S. 280. The chain was founded on the East Coast in 2009 and has spread across the United States, with the Birmingham location marking one of over 300 SweetFrog franchises.

SweetFrog features a classic frozen yogurt bar that offers more than 100 base flavors, from basic vanilla to pomegranate raspberry sorbet. No sugar added, nonfat, and dairy-free yogurt is available upon request. The topping offerings number in the dozens and range from fresh fruit to candy to nuts and cereals.

The store also provides catering services, hosts birthday parties and offers a loyalty program that rewards customers with free yogurt throughout the year. Program members receive one store point for every dollar spent and can redeem 75 points for a yogurt. SweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt is at 250 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 400, and is open every day of the week from noon to 9 p.m. Purchases can be made in person or online at sweetfrog.com. Customers can order SweetFrog’s frozen yogurt for pickup or delivery. 280 Living is spotlighting local businesses and restaurants online and in print. If you’d like to be considered for inclusion, contact Taylor Bright at tbright@starnesmedia.com.

Mom might not have a favorite child, but she does have a favorite place to have her baby (or babies). And that place is St. Vincent’s, where we have a nurse navigator who listens to your preferences, prenatal and postnatal classes, and advanced care if you or your baby needs it. So start a conversation with an OB-GYN at St. Vincent’s — it’s Mom’s favorite for a whole lot of reasons.

Call 205-212-MOMS (6667) or visit ascension.org/StVincentsALBaby to find a doctor.

Visit ascension.org/StVincentALBaby or call 205-212-MOMS (6667) to find a doctor.

SweetFrog Premium Frozen Yogurt is in The Village at Lee Branch.

Photo by Tim Stephens.

BUSINESS

Opened amid isolation, cafe serves coffee, community

By EMERY AKIN

In September 2020, just three months after Alabama ended its lockdown amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, with people working from home and many still isolating, a new coffee shop opened in Lee Branch.

In a year where human interactions were few and far between, the coffee shop, East 59 Cafe, offered a place to regain a lost sense of community.

That sense of community is what has driven co-owner Amber Tolbert, who started the cafe in East Lake in 2013 with her neighbors.

“It is a point of community gathering,” Tolbert said. “We have a lot of Bible study groups that meet here. We have a lot of book clubs, … things where people can meet and connect face-to-face, and I feel like that's sorely lacking [today].”

If you walk into East 59 Cafe today, you will see a group of women knitting, huddled around a long table and giggling over details such as the hem on a shirt. In the room next to them, parents gather for a PTA meeting, bustling in one by one as they grab a drink or snack. All the while, the smell of coffee, quiche and croissants fills the air.

To Tolbert, picking up an online order at a coffee shop and never interacting with a person during the process feels like it’s missing something.

“You can go through your whole day and not interact with a human being,” Tolbert said. “I think that is the thing that I'm most proud of our business, is that we have created a space where people can meet other people face-to-face. And we really need that.”

The cafe is functioning exactly how its founding families wanted it to: as a place where people from all paths of life intersect and create friendships.

In 2013, Tolbert, her husband, Stephen, and two other families in the neighborhood joined together in Birmingham’s East Lake neighborhood to open a space where friends in their neighborhood could enjoy good food and good company.

The Tolberts had been discussing how there was “no place to hang out” in East Lake, “no place to sit down.”

“As we were talking to some of our other neighbors there, … we decided we wanted to open up a coffee shop,” Amber Tolbert said. “Right when we were discussing it, … Rev Birmingham did a business incubator project — and they were doing that in October 2013 — where they had empty storefronts and they let people come and set up a pop-up shop.”

Tolbert said this seemed like the “perfect opportunity” to test their idea.

That week, she said 600 neighbors came in for free coffee and snacks.

“It was cool because we got to ask our neighbors what they wanted,” Tolbert said. “We were originally thinking, OK, we’re just going to be a coffee shop.’ But no, neighbors wanted a restaurant. They wanted salads; they wanted sandwiches; they wanted something that wasn’t fried.”

From that idea, East 59 Cafe was born, named after its location, which was originally just off of Interstate 59. In 2017, the cafe opened an additional location, which remains open to this day, in the Hoover Library.

But in 2019, the lease for the East Lake building was up, and Amber and her husband moved to the U.S. 280 area.

“We had a lot of building issues, so we decided to close [the East Lake] location,”

Tolbert said. “And it was really hard to do, because we've very much loved that location and our neighbors a lot. So when we moved over this way, we kind of went back and forth on, ‘Do we want to open another place over here?’ And we found this location and we thought it would be perfect.”

The location has changed, but not Tolbert’s community values.

“It has always stayed true to our original

vision, which was to have a place for people to meet and to gather, and that's really rare today,”

Tolbert said. “We have such a huge customer base of regulars that just seeing those relationships developed over the years is really valuable beyond the dollar.”

East 59 Cafe, located at 701 Doug Baker Blvd., is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Visit east59.net for more information.

Amber Tolbert, co-owner of East 59 Cafe, has found success postpandemic with the cafe’s Lee Branch location.

Photos by Emery Akin.

EVENTS

280 corridor events guide

Sept. 1: Nature Scavenger Hunt. 8 a.m. Oak Mountain State Park. Bring the family for some outdoors fun while you enjoy a scavenger hunt in the beautiful Oak Mountain State Park. Pick up your scavenger hunt sheet at the park office. Park admission will be required at the gate. For questions, contact Lauren Muncher at lauren. muncher@dcnr.alabama.gov or by phone at 205-620-2520.

Sept. 7: Chelsea Community Christian Outreach Food Pantry. 10 a.m. to noon. Chelsea Church of Christ, 10724 Chelsea Road. The food pantry is held the first Saturday of every month for those in need of food items. Food will be distributed while supplies last. For more information, visit “Chelsea Community Christian Outreach” on Facebook.

Sept. 12: Taste of Shelby County. 6-8 p.m. Inverness Country Club, 1 Country Club Drive. Bring your taste buds to support the 16th annual Shelby County Schools Education Foundation event. Local restaurants and beverage vendors will be there to offer samples while you enjoy live entertainment. Tickets are $50 when purchased ahead of time and $60 at the door. Admission includes food and beverage samples from vendors. To purchase tickets online, visit tasteofshelby county.com. You can also participate in the online auction, beginning Sept. 8, by visiting 32auctions.com/Taste2024.

Sept. 14: Birds on the Boardwalk. 11 a.m. Oak Mountain State Park, Treetop Nature Trail, Beach Access Entrance. Bring the family to hear fun facts, stories and more about the feathered residents of the Treetop Nature Trail. Park admission will be required at the gate. For questions, contact Lauren Muncher at lauren.muncher@dcnr. alabama.gov or by phone at 205-620-2520.

Sept. 21: Hold the Fort 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Races. 8-10 a.m. 2158 Oak Mountain State Park Road. Come run to support Blanket Fort Hope! This nonprofit organization is dedicated to caring for child trafficking survivors, as well as educating the general public

about human trafficking. Runners or walkers can sign up for one of the three races to be held simultaneously. Registration begins at $30 and includes park admission. Spectators will need to pay park admission at the gate. To sign up for the run, visit holdthe fortraces.com. For more information, contact Phaedra Galloway at 205-730-8627.

Sept. 22: Sean of the South “On The Air” Series. 4-6 p.m. Song Theater, 105 West College St., Columbiana. Come enjoy music and fun with this summer series of live-broadcast performances. Sean Dietrich and his guests will share music, humor, and stories that will be recorded for future broadcast. You, as a member of the audience, will be part of the live recording. Come expecting laughter and good company with Sean of the South and his friends. Tickets are $30 plus tax and can be purchased online at shelbycountyartscouncil. com/event-calendar. For more information, call 205-669-0044 or email info@shelbycountyartscouncil.com.

Sept. 28: Old Baker Farm Pumpkin Patch. Old Baker Farm, 184 Furrow Lane, Harpersville. The pumpkin patch will be open until Oct. 31. For more information, visit oldbakerfarm.com.

Chelsea Public Library

Mondays: Dungeons and Dragons. 4-6 p.m. For ages 12-14.

Wednesdays: Tot Time. 10:30 a.m

Wednesdays: Dungeons and Dragons. 5-7 p.m. For ages 15 and up.

Thursdays: Musical Munchkins. 10:30 a.m.

Fridays: Bring Your Own Craft. 1 p.m.

Sept. 12: Adult Book Club. 11:30 a.m.

Sept. 14: Friends of Chelsea Library Book Sale. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Chelsea Community Center.

Sept. 14: Lego Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sept. 17: Beading Bookworms. 4 p.m.

Sept. 28: K.Z.T. Steam Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mt Laurel Public Library

Sept. 5: Adult Book Club — Tom Lake. 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Adults only.

Sept. 6 and 20: Ukulele Storytime. 10 a.m. Ages 18-36 months and a caregiver.

Sept. 9: Knitting Group. 2-4 p.m. Adults only. Bring your own knitting, crocheting or embroidery project.

Sept. 14: Crafty Saturday. 10 a.m. All ages welcome.

Sept. 17: Lunch and Learn – Mary Beth Dearmon. Noon. Adults only. Enjoy a free lunch while we hear from local author Mary Beth Dearmon. Registration required.

Sept. 20: Shake and Paint. 4 p.m. Ages 8-12. Registration required at mtlaurellibrary.org.

Sept. 26: Painting Program. 10 a.m. Adults only. Chris Cruz will be leading this multi-media painting program. Registration required.

Sept. 27: Stuffed Animal Sleepover. 4 p.m. Come read a book, share a snack and get your stuffed animals ready to enjoy a sleepover at the library. Come back on Saturday to pick up your special friend and find out what they did overnight. Registration required at mtlaurellibrary.org.

North Shelby Library

Mondays: Teen Dungeons and Dragons. 6-8 p.m. Come join an epic game of Dungeons and Dragons. Sign up online at nsyoungadult@shelbycounty-al.org.

Sept. 1: Monthly STEM Kit-to-Go. Stop by beginning Sept. 1 to grab your monthly STEM kit. You will investigate sound and vibration by creating a "Bee Hummer.” No registration is required, but supplies are given on a first-come, first-served basis. Kits may have small pieces. For more information, contact nschildrens@shelby county-al.org.

Sept. 5: Teen Crafternoon. 4-5:30 p.m.

Sept. 9: Alabama Humanities Alliance Presents “The Art of War: Posters, Photographs and Postcards of World War I.” 10:30 a.m. This event is presented by Dr. Martin Olliff.

Sept. 23: Dr. Mom — Natural Tools for Tots and Littles. 6 p.m. Come learn practical, holistic strategies to keep your little ones healthy and thriving. This program is presented with Young Living Essential Oils.

The Shelby County Chamber has resumed its annual trip to Washington, D.C. to visit members of the Alabama delegation. Stock image.

Shelby chamber resumes congressional visits

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

The Shelby County Chamber will resume its Washington, D.C., visits this month after a five-year hiatus.

The fly-ins organized by the chamber had been put on hold because of the pandemic and then stricter access controls implemented on Capitol Hill, said Kirk Mancer, the president and CEO of the Shelby County Chamber. The last trip was in 2019.

“We’re excited to get back up and running,” Mancer said.

The fly-ins will resume Sept. 26. Mancer said community and business leaders are invited to attend the trip, which will include a breakfast meeting with the Alabama congressional delegation and then a visit to the offices of the delegation after.

Mancer said it is important for Shelby County leaders to go to Washington to compete with other communities who do the same thing.

“We know other communities are going up to Washington on a regular basis,” Mancer said. “Shelby County needs to get back in the habit of going up and making sure our federal delegation understands what’s important for Shelby County.”

Mancer said they wanted to thank the delegation for the federal investment in Shelby County, show them the result of the investments and discuss future projects during the visit.

“Investment in Shelby County has been a positive investment,” Mancer said.

On the 2019 trip, Mancer said the chamber had discussed infrastructure and broadband in the county.

How My Chamber Investment Works for Me

“Whenever I can attend a Shelby County Chamber function I’m able to make several new business contacts. In fact, at my very first luncheon which I attended, I made a contact for some new business that paid for my annual investment right away. Now, not all of the individuals I meet end up being customers, but they have friends and business associates so the networking goes beyond just the people we meet at a Chamber events.”

SPORTS

Change abounds as teams enter new volleyball season

By KYLE PARMLEY

As the high school volleyball season nears, the word “change” resonates soundly with the programs at Briarwood, Chelsea, Oak Mountain and Spain Park. Three of those teams have new coaches, and three are also moving down in classification this year.

JAGS EMBRACING NEW CHALLENGE

Spain Park High School’s volleyball program has ascended to be one of the most respected in the state under coach Kellye Bowen.

Bowen is now at Jasper, and Justin Kisor is the new leader at Spain Park. He and his wife, Ashley, inherit a program in good standing, looking to help the Jags take another positive step in 2024.

Kisor comes to Spain Park from Fort Payne, where he led the Wildcats to the Class 6A state tournament in 2023, taking the program from 18 wins in his first year to 38 last year.

He has high hopes for his 2024 team at Spain Park, which features three seniors in Alexa Benda, Reagan Gilbert and Grayson Hyde.

Benda recently played in the AHSAA NorthSouth All-Star Game in Montgomery in July, as one of the top rising seniors in the state. Gilbert has long been one of the top outside hitters in the area, and Hyde is moving to the right side after previously playing in the middle.

Kisor has given the keys for the offense to junior setter Cailyn Kyes. He prefers to run a system where the setter is given plenty of responsibility, and he believes Kyes has more than proven capable of handling that so far.

Benda will be a force in the middle, with Ja’Niyah Mosley also at that position. On the outside, Gilbert will be joined by junior Bea Wiggins. On the back row, eighth grader Camdyn Kyes has earned the libero position at the season’s outset.

Phu Vo is a defensive specialist who will also play on the back row, and Kisor also mentioned Hollyn Oliver as a versatile front row player. Peyton Harrington and Ayu Sudarsana will also be in the mix for playing time for the Jags.

Even though Spain Park dropped down to Class 6A this fall, things certainly don’t get any easier for the Jags. They are now playing in an area consisting of Pelham, Helena and Chelsea, three programs that have equally high expectations.

LIONS LAYING GROUNDWORK FOR SUCCESS

Chris Camper is making his return to the high school level two years after retiring from Hoover, where he won the 2020 Class 7A state championship.

He is blending goals of short-term competitiveness with a long-term vision of dynasty.

There will be more spoken about the future plans of the Lions in the coming months and years. This fall, Briarwood will be competing in Class 5A, and Camper believes this team is

ready to make its mark after seeing them work over the summer.

Experienced players like Julie Roberts, Leighton Hendley, Clara Crawford and Sophia Seale give the Lions the offensive punch to compete with anyone they play.

The person in charge of getting those hitters the ball will be Mia Wilson, the lone senior and team captain.

“It’s been really great,” Wilson said. “Coach Camper is pushing us to be the best we can be in practice, and ultimately that turns out well in games.”

Peyton Gibbins will also play in the middle with Crawford, while Claire Anderson, Stella Meeks, Livi Reebals, Julia Thompson, Sara Tripp, Saylor Eighmy and Ava Doss are all competing for playing time this fall.

“We want to be a volleyball program that matches the standard of excellence that Briarwood has,” Camper said. “We want people to look at our program as it’s the best academic and volleyball combination in the state.”

HORNETS EAGER TO MAKE STATEMENT

The pieces are in place for the Chelsea volleyball team to have a tremendous season. The Hornets return plenty of quality experience and have a group of seniors who have won many matches over the course of their careers.

But whether through an ill-timed dip in performance, injuries or a combination of both, they have struggled to advance as deep into the

playoffs over the last couple years.

If Chelsea can avoid those things this year, big things are possible. The Hornets have dropped down to Class 6A but will play in a tough area with Spain Park, Pelham and Helena.

“Our biggest strength is the experience of the girls that will be on the court,” Chelsea head coach Jamie Gill said.

There are eight seniors on this team, led by outside hitter and Texas Tech University commit Lauren Buchanan, who has starred on the team since her freshman year. Kaleigh Hall is a powerful middle hitter, Reagan Sartin is a steady libero and Cara Belcher is the team’s setter and a commit to University of Virginia at Wise. Those four will serve as the team captains this fall.

“The experience in pressure moments will help us this season,” Belcher said.

Presley Durham and Payton Walker are defensive specialists, while right-sider Lila Willett rounds out the senior class.

Alexis Rudolph has come on strong as an outside hitter and is in line for a big year. Katie Spencer will be a capable middle for the Hornets, while Sophia Bagley, Claire Casey, Aly Davis and Olivia Bachus are all defensive players. Kaylin Crowell is an additional setter.

EAGLES COACH, PLAYERS READY TO STEP UP

Oak Mountain volleyball has been a steady beacon of competitive play for the last few years under coach Grace Burgess.

Burgess returned to her alma mater to take over the Homewood program, and the Eagles hired Anna Claire Harris to take over.

Harris has jumped on board, eager to help Oak Mountain continue its winning ways.

The Eagles have three seniors this season. Middle blocker Aubrie Lay has established herself as one of the team’s top players. Defensive specialist Bennett Renstrom is ready to make an impact on the back row. Ava Tucker is out on the right side.

Then, there is a group of nine juniors. Not many of them have significant varsity experience, but the benefit is that much of the group has played together since middle school.

Caroline Whitehurst will be a key player for the Eagles, playing all the way around. Bekah Arledge is a strong outside hitter. Caroline Spence can play on the right side or the middle, while Katie McClellan is a consistent player on the right side.

Kate Gordon and Betsy Smith are setters that will run the Oak Mountain offense.

Lily Kerr, Claire Connell and Anaya Patel are defensive players, with Patel earning the libero spot heading into the season.

Coming from Curry, Harris sees many parallels in her ascent to a 7A program, much like the girls on her team jumping up from JV to the varsity team and being counted on.

“There’s a lot of talent with this group. I’m super excited to see how they continue to develop, but also hold each other accountable as well,” Harris said.

Left: Briarwood’s Mia Wilson (10) serves in a match against Gardendale at Briarwood Christian School in September 2023. Right: Spain Park’s Cailyn Kyes (12) celebrates with her teammates after blocking a hit during a match against Chelsea in the Class 7A, Area 6 tournament at Oak Mountain High School in October 2023. Below: Chelsea’s Cara Belcher (14) sets the ball during a match against Spain Park in the Class 7A, Area 6 tournament at Oak Mountain High School in October 2023. Photos by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

Lakeshore Foundation opens new cutting-edge,

Sports Science and Performance Center

The Lakeshore Foundation in Birmingham has emerged over the last four decades as a world leader in fitness, recreation, research and health promotion for people with disabilities, including veterans and seniors.

A nonprofit founded in 1984, the foundation serves about 4,000 people annually and is a leader in paralympic sports training and advocacy.

Last year, the foundation reached an even higher level in serving athletes in adaptive sports when it opened its new, cutting-edge, data-driven Lakeshore Sports Science and Performance Center (SSPC).

By combining the foundation’s decades of experience in adaptive sports with the help of experts, Lakeshore SSPC aims to greatly expand the opportunity for all athletes to take advantage of advanced sports science research and to achieve peak performance.

The Lakeshore SSPC provides disabled athletes an unrivaled training experience, combining science-driven sports performance services with great facilities, expert knowledge and extensive online resources.

To maximize their potential, athletes must know where to start, so Lakeshore SSPC uses performance testing and data analysis to provide a clear picture of a competitor’s current fitness. Using such data, the experts at Lakeshore SSPC create personalized training programs for athletes.

Food is the fuel that drives perfor-

mance, and the nutritionists at Lakeshore SSPC teach athletes how to improve their daily eating habits. They also create personalized meal plans for athletes that are tailored to their individual needs and help boost their strength, speed, skills and mental health.

In the facility’s strength and conditioning program, athletes work one-on-one with certified specialists to achieve their potential.

In order to compete at peak performance, athletes need to be fit mentally as well as physically, so the mental performance experts at Lakeshore SSPC help athletes develop customized training plans that enhance their focus, confidence, resilience and stress management.

Lakeshore SSPC has partnered with

Foundation

• Where: 4000 Ridgeway Drive

• Call: 205-313-7400

• Web: lakeshore.org

technology companies to bring mental wellness into the training routine. For example, the facility recently added software that does brainwave measurements for concussions and other aspects of mental wellness.

The Lakeshore SSPC Learning Lab is an online library of resources designed for coaches, sports professionals and athletes, with a self-guided curriculum that addresses key performance areas.

It’s important to put athletes in adapted sports in the front end of technology, and that is what makes Lakeshore Foundation so special. The nonprofit serves a lot of communities and audiences, but it shines brighter than anyone in America when it comes to adapted sports and training.

In 2023, the facility served hundreds of athletes in adapted sports including teams and Paralympians.

The foundation is a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic training site and serves as the National Governing Body for USA Wheelchair Rugby and Boccia United States.

For more information about the Lakeshore Foundation and Lakeshore SSPC, call 205-313-7400 or go to lakeshore.org.

Familiar face takes the reins at Greystone YMCA

By GRETCHEN SKALKA

The new executive director of the Greystone YMCA is not new to the facility.

Susan Becker began her career with the Y as a part-time swim instructor 20 years ago at the Greystone location.

Between then and now, she’s served the YMCA of Greater Birmingham and the community in several key roles, including aquatic director at Greystone, executive director at the Vestavia Hills and Mountain Brook YMCAs and group vice president.

In April, a full-circle opportunity presented itself.

Kristen Harris, Greystone’s executive director for more than 20 years, took the helm of the Birmingham YMCA’s flagship branch in Hoover.

“We decided with my connections and my familiarity with this area, this branch and the membership here, that I would be the perfect candidate to come back,” Becker said.

She said returning to the Greystone Y, located between Hugh Daniel Drive and Alabama 119 along the U.S. 280 corridor, felt like coming home.

“A lot of people come up and say, ‘You taught me how to swim’ or ‘You taught my son how to swim,’ and oh my gosh, yeah. I have a lot of history here,” she said of the Greystone YMCA, which is located between Hugh Daniel Drive and Highway 119 along the 280 corridor.

“I really feel a true sense of community. We are family to a lot of our members,” said Becker, who continues to supervise the Trussville, Pelham and Alabaster branches as a group vice president.

“I can't tell you how many times a day we

have somebody who tells us what an impact the Y has made to them. And, for a lot of our seniors, we’re the only people they see every

From dusty to digital.

University of Alabama.

“I remember in college, I always said, ‘Boy, I would really love to work for a nonprofit,’

From left: Dr. Campbell, Dr. Tate, Jett, Dr. Allison, Dr. LeBlanc, Dr. Wood, Dr. Dodgen

day. We are family to them.” Community service was an early goal for Becker during her college days at the

Susan Becker, the new executive director of the Greystone YMCA. Photo by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

“When you see over a thousand people a day, it’s the interactions that set your pace for the day. That’s the beauty of it, and that’s the beauty of working at the YMCA. I’ve always said a bad day at the YMCA is like a good day anywhere else. The YMCA is a great place to work. I love it.

SUSAN BECKER

”

and then you end up going another direction when you graduate because you're getting a job. Who knew that by learning to teach swim lessons, it would lead me to the Y?”

What does Becker’s role look like on a typical day?

For starters, there is no typical day.

“When you see over a thousand people a day, it’s the interactions that set your pace for the day. That’s the beauty of it, and that's the beauty of working at the YMCA,” she said.

“I've always said a bad day at the YMCA is like a good day anywhere else. The YMCA is a great place to work. I love it.”

Serving preschool age kids through seniors, Becker said the Greystone membership is more diverse than people may imagine.

“We have so many activities and programs for our membership of all ages,” she said. “That is something I would love for people to know more about. When you come in with a family membership, there's something for everyone in your family to do.”

An in-house preschool, community outreach opportunities, water aerobics, strength and conditioning training and group classes are among dozens of programs, events and activities available at the Greystone YMCA. There is also a new, technology-based E-Gym customized to each user.

“Anyone who tries the E-Gym gets addicted to it. It's almost like playing Pac-Man,” Becker said, pointing to a screen showing a game-like exercise route. “It's interactive, engaging, and it's easy. It’s been one of the most successful things that we have added.”

The location doesn’t just focus on those looking to get in shape. It also offers a whole range of wellness programs.

A free Parkinson’s support program at the Greystone Y is available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with monthly group support.

“It has been an incredible program for us, and we have gotten a lot of great support from our community and from business partners in our community to help us support that program,” Becker said.

Following the success of the Parkinson’s support program, Becker is planning a cancer survivorship program later this year.

The summer lunch program is another area of community outreach she’s looking to grow. The program provides nutrition to at-risk children in each of the areas she serves.

“Doing the work we do in the community, and the outreach we do with many people in the community, … that's what makes me super happy,” she said. “And that's what makes me so excited to still be working for the YMCA 20 years later.”

COMMUNITY

Birmingham Academy of Dance celebrates ten years on U.S. 280

By SARAH GILLILAND

For Autumn Armstrong, dancing has been a lifelong passion.

Armstrong is the founder and owner of Birmingham Academy of Dance, or BA Dance for short. Though she said that her love of dancing began at an early age, she realized quickly that choreography was her true desire.

“I began dancing when I was 2 years old. I started doing choreography in my basement when I was 4 or 4 years old,” she said.

“I started doing competitive dance along with competitive gymnastics growing up, but my true passion has always been choreography and teaching. I started doing choreography for colleges and high schools when I was 15 and just never stopped,” Armstrong said.

As she celebrates the 10th season of business at her dance studio on U.S. 280 and three years at her studio in Trussville, Armstrong remembers the challenges she and her team faced when attempting to open the studio during the summer of 2015.

“We had opened for the summer in a temporary space. Our build-out got delayed. We had registered 100 kids before we had started, and we were in a one-room space next door to where they were building out our space,” she said.

Running a studio gave her a new perspective on the world of dance.

“Most of the work that I did before [opening the studio], was me just coming in and setting

to 5-year-old

routines for different high schools and colleges. I never got to see the finished product, so I wanted to see that process from beginning to end and [see] the dancers that I was working with get a foundation, and then see them through all these phases that they go through

Aug. 14.

as they grow up and dance,” she said.

As the number of students increased year after year, Armstrong realized there was a need for a second location of BA Dance.

“We opened Trussville in 2021. We noticed they [our students] were having to drive from

the other side of town. Within the first year, the enrollment at our Trussville location matched enrollment at our 280 location, so there was definitely a need,” Armstrong said.

Armstrong said Trussville has been a great location for another studio.

“The community has been great,” Armstrong said. “That's where all of our students come from; people sharing with their friends, sharing their experience. The community has just been so supportive of what we're trying to do; focusing on being sure they're trained from a young age, with proper technique, but also taking care of their dancer.”

Armstrong wants to expose young dancers to more than the traditional forms of dance or popular dances they may see on social media. In addition to ballet, tap and jazz, BA Dance also offers hip hop, musical theater and “recreational” classes for those who don’t want to be in the competitive dance space.

Learning how to run a dance class, how to choreograph a routine or the kinds of jobs available in the performing arts field after high school are just some of the things that Armstrong hopes her students also learn while at her studio.

“Whether it be commercial TV, music, concerts or choreographing for award shows and television shows, it just kind of opens them up to the industry as a whole,” she said.

When it comes to the viral dances popular on social media, Armstrong said they make room for those opportunities, too.

Great ideas often occur in the most comfortable of settings, and Bellini’s is no exception. With that in mind, in 2008, after discussing ideas over a bottle (or 2) of wine, the concept of Bellinis was formed.

Come relax, enjoy your own glass of wine among friends, and see where your discussions take you.

Bellinis is Birmingham’s only Italian Infused Steakhouse featuring the highest quality steaks hand-cut for perfection and grilled over our wood burning grill, house made pastas, seafood, and classic Italian dishes.

Dancers in the 3-

ballet class at Birmingham Academy of Dance on

Photos by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

“Our program allows for students that want to come in and just have that one hour of having fun, getting just to move and listen to music. It definitely brings in a different type of program for us, where we do open it up to just recreational dancers that want to come in and just maybe learn something they've seen off of Tik Tok. We break it down and show them how to do it,” she said.

BA Dance is perhaps best known for being a competitive dance studio. Armstrong and her staff take individual dancers and groups to competitions across the country every year. The studio has produced national champion dance

groups and five individual national champion dancers in the past three years.

“We started out with around 125, and now we are at around 500 students. It’s been a great experience. We opened for kids of all ages, all levels, whether they want to dance professionally or not. It’s really come full circle to be everything I wanted it to be when we opened the program,” Armstrong said.

For more information about Birmingham Academy of Dance, visit their location at 234 Main Street in Trussville or at 5033 Highway 280, Suite 103, in Birmingham, or find them online at badance280.com.

Students in the 9- to 11-year-old competition group run through choreography.

HEALTH

CONTINUED from page A1

I don’t know why she did either, but you know, by God, I’m gonna find out,” she said. “After I did that, I just told everybody, ‘We’re gonna talk about it.’ I realize now that’s my purpose in life … because the stigma needs to go away and people need to be able to get help. If you’re having a heart attack, you’re gonna go to the hospital. Well, if your brain is under attack, would you not want to go to the hospital? It’s an organ just like your heart is.”

Blackmon now knows that there’s never just one cause of suicide, and she understands the impact it can have on people, with statistics saying as many as 150 people can be affected by a single death. That’s why she has spent the last decade advocating and working to ensure state legislators pay attention to the topic.

Thea Dudley, a resident of Trussville, has also spent the last several years advocating for suicide prevention after she lost both her son, Matthew, who she affectionately calls “Matty,” and her husband, John, to suicide.

Dudley’s experience with suidice loss began in April 2015, when Matty took his life just one month before his high school graduation. With college looming, final testing going on and in the middle of a golf tournament, Matty was feeling the pressure of transitioning into a young adult.

“About six weeks before he died, I noticed [he was] not eating, not sleeping,” she said. “We started counseling to try and get him to feel better about all that was going on. And he would say stuff like, ‘I just wish I was already grown, that I didn’t have to do this college thing.’ … And I was like, ‘Well, you just got to be a little patient,’ and patience was not a virtue for him at all.”

John Dudley was the one who found Matty on the day he died, and Thea feels that was a contributing factor to his mental health issues. John turned to drinking after Matty’s death, while Thea sought out grief counseling. Their communication dwindled, and she didn’t realize how bad he was struggling with alcohol

to golf. Matthew died by suicide in April 2015, just before his high school graduation. Photos courtesy of Thea Dudley.

abuse and depression until after his death in 2018.

Research shows that those who seek treatment and learn coping mechanisms are less likely to think about or die by suicide. This is why Thea Dudley has embraced talking about her family’s story, encouraging people to seek help when they need it.

“We can reach other people if we put forth the effort,” she said. “If one person saves one person just by having a conversation, then our loved ones don’t die for nothing.”

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SUICIDE

One person dies by suicide every 11 minutes

in the United States, according to postCOVID-19 data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

The CDC’s most recent Fatal Injury Report found that over 49,000 people died by suicide in 2022, and the World Health Organization reported that the pandemic triggered a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide.

With these issues becoming more prevalent, the conversation around them has also increased, chipping away at the stigmas surrounding mental illness and suicide.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness and the CDC both report that one in five U.S. adults experience a mental illness each year,

By the numbers

► Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people aged 10-24 in the state of Alabama.

► Based on the most current verified CDC data from 2021, it is the 13th leading cause of death overall in the state.

► Of recorded deaths, 75% of suicides were by firearms, and 47% of firearm deaths were suicides.

► In 2023, three-quarters of Alabama communities did not have enough mental health providers to serve residents, according to federal guidelines.

and one in six U.S. youth ages six to 17 experience a mental health disorder each year.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people aged 10-24 in Alabama. Based on the most current verified CDC data from 2021, it is the 13th leading cause of death overall. Of recorded deaths, 75% of suicides were by firearms, and 47% of firearm deaths were suicides. In 2023, 75% of Alabama communities did not have enough mental health providers to serve residents, according to federal guidelines.

Alice Churnock, the founder of BrainCore Birmingham and a licensed professional counselor who is certified in Neurofeedback, notes that mental health issues, and specifically suicide, have such a large impact on youth populations due to brain development.

Churnock said that the human brain is formed from the back to the front, and the prefrontal cortex (which is responsible for

risk factors for cognitive decline that we can address.1

Without hearing aids your brain works harder to process sound.

The better the quality of the incoming sound, the better the chances for speech understanding and for making meaningful social connections.

Churnock

Above left: Thea Dudley holds a photo of her son, Matthew, whom she lost to suicide. Dudley has trained on suicide prevention education so that she can share her story to different schools and organizations, in the hopes of preventing people from experiencing the same loss she has.

Photo by Sarah Owens. Above right: Thea’s husband, John, was 53 years old when he took his life, three years after the loss of his son, Matthew. Right: Matthew Dudley was a people person, according to his mother, and he played baseball before a shoulder injury caused him to switch

logic, decision-making and impulse control, among other things) does not fully develop until around age 25. Prior to that development, the amygdala limbic system, or the emotional center of the brain, is responsible for all decision making.

“When you’re an adolescent, we know that you have about a 15-second timeline in making a decision,” she said. “All the decision, all the future planning is done within that 15 seconds, so naturally, you can see how that impulsivity a lot of times is what happens with an adolescent.”

While research shows that brain development is important in understanding youth suicides, Churnock emphasizes that all people are unique and develop differently. Some younger individuals may be more logical or possess a calmer, less emotional response to stressors, and being 25 or older does not guarantee an absence of impulsive choices.

In fact, recognizing individuality is essential in addressing mental health issues and preventing suicide. While we’re often told to

look for common warning signs like increased isolation, mood swings, substance abuse, giving away belongings and changes in sleeping habits, both Churnock and Meesha Emmett, AFSP’s Alabama area director, stress that people can be struggling without exhibiting any of these signs.

“What we the public see as a potential cause that might lead someone to death by suicide is oftentimes not; it’s never the full picture,” Emmett said. “Research has shown that it’s a combination of environmental factors, biological factors and historical factors all converging at the same time to create that moment of despair.”

Churnock also emphasizes that there are

wonderful parents and individuals who have lost children or loved ones to suicide, and the worst thing we can do is blame those who are already dealing with the guilt.

“All we’ve grown up hearing is the phrase ‘committed suicide.’ The word ‘committed’ in and of itself, we usually use that word to describe things that are negative, like you commit crimes,” Emmett said. “It perpetuates a stigma and implies judgment, and that’s really dangerous, particularly with loss survivors. … We just don’t need to assign that kind of judgment to something as complex as suicide because we never know the full picture.”

On top of being aware of the way we speak about these topics, Emmett said the most important thing you can do is be kind and show up for people in your life, let them know you care and are ready to listen.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for help.

Suicide prevention resources

This list was provided by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Find the complete list at afsp.org/suicide-preventionresources

► 24/7 Crisis Hotline: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline. org. Veterans, press one when calling.

► 24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text TALK to 741-741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free. For more information, go to crisistextline. org.

► Veterans Crisis Line: Send a text to 838255 to access the hotline or go to veteranscrisis line.net for more information

► Vets4Warriors: Visit online at vets4warriors.com

► SAMHSA Treatment Referral Hotline (Substance Abuse): Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to access the hotline or go to samhsa.gov/ find-help for more information

► RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: Call 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) to access the hotline or go to hotline.rainn.org for more information

► National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: Call 1-866-331-9474 to access the hotline or go to loveis respect.org for more information

► The Trevor Project: Call 1-866488-7386 to access the hotline or go to thetrevorproject.org for more information

Emmett

Right: Tracie Blackmon holds a photo of her mother, Judy, whom she lost to suicide in 1982. Tracie Blackmon is tired of the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide, and she is dedicated to normalizing the conversation around these topics by talking about her own experiences dealing with the loss of her mother. Above: Photos of Judy Blackmon and her family in Tracie’s home. Photos by Sarah Owens.

Suicide among senior citizens on the rise

By JON ANDERSON

The suicide rate in the United States reached a historic high in 2022, and while nearly every age group experienced an increase from 2021, older Americans fared the worst, according to the National Council on Aging.

Suicide death rates rose 8.1% among people age 65 and older, compared to a 3% increase among all ages, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. In 2022, among the nearly 49,449 suicides that took place in the United States, 10,433 (21%) were attributed to people age 65 and older.

Older adults tend to plan suicide more carefully and are likely to use more lethal means, according to the National Library of Medicine.

As people age, they often lose their sense of purpose and hope, for a variety of reasons, said Cheryl Dodson, executive director for the Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition.

For some people, it’s a loss of physical abilities, while for others it may be the loss of a spouse, which can lead to loneliness and isolation.

While our culture is more connected than ever through tools such as social media, there still is a lot of disconnection, Dodson said. “An elderly person can go a week without speaking to someone if their phone doesn’t ring for a week,” she said.

Older adults also tend to be on fixed incomes, and as the cost of living increases, it can create great stress, Dodson said.

Even when loved ones help take care of them, many of those who consider suicide do so because they don’t want to be a burden, she said.

Signs that an elderly person may be considering suicide include giving away belongings, sudden talk of the end of their life, risky behavior, rehoming a pet, extreme fatigue, impulsive spending and alcohol or substance abuse, Dodson said.

“For people in crisis, the most powerful thing

you can do is listen,” she said. You don’t have to have all the answers; just giving them a safe space to talk can save a life, she said.

The best advice she has for someone considering suicide is to reach out to someone to talk, she said. For those who are grieving, the Community Grief Support organization is a good one, she said. The 988 suicide and crisis hotline is another, she said.

It’s also important to build connections with others, Dodson said.

Madeline Harris, manager of senior services at the Mary Ellen Estes Senior Community Center at Heardmont Park, said senior centers are a great place to build those connections. The senior center at Heardmont offers a variety of activities, from aerobics to tai chi, yoga, bridge, canasta, mahjong, art classes, dancing and day trips to places such as the symphony, botanical gardens and Peach Park in Clanton.

But some people just come to eat and talk with other people, Harris said. “We’ve created a place that is welcoming, no matter what country you’re from or your political beliefs,” she said. “It’s a safe place.”

Catherine Kessler, 86, of Hoover said sometimes as people age and have spouses and friends die, they begin to isolate themselves. “You can get in a mood where you slowly don’t do anything, and I’m trying to avoid that tremendously,” she said. The senior center gives her something to do and people to socialize with, she said.

Penny Washington, another senior from The Narrows, said her husband died about nine years ago, and the senior center has been a great place for her to come and play bingo and meet with other people. Everyone has challenges they face, and sometimes they think they’re the only ones going through it, but when they get to the senior center they realize otherwise, Washington said.

“It’s just a place to come to that somebody else understands exactly how you feel,” she said.

To learn more about suicide prevention and older adults, visit the National Council on Aging website at ncoa.org and search “suicide.”

Senior citizens from the Mary Ellen Estes Senior Center at Heardmont Park go out to eat on a day trip. Senior centers often are considered good ways to build connections and camaraderie and help people avoid isolation and loneliness. Photo courtesy of Mary Ellen Estes Senior Center at Heardmont Park.

Those affected by Chelsea suicides seek to help in aftermath

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

Friends send Dori Lawrence texts. They send her Tik Toks. They leave her voicemails.

But Dori passed away more than a year ago. Her mother, Brandi, keeps the phone bills paid so that Dori’s friends can still send anything they want to her, even a year after her death.

“It’s a good way for them to express how they feel in a private way,” Brandi Lawrence said. “Each one keeps her memory alive.”

Dori was one of four teenagers who took their lives in the span of 17 months in the Chelsea community. Dori, who was about to turn 15 years old, was the last of the four.

“The last year for me, personally, has been awful,” Brandi Lawrence said. “It was supposed to be her 16th birthday, instead we’re going to her grave.”

The deaths in the Chelsea community have led to an awareness, if not outright change, in the community when it comes to suicide prevention.

Brandi Lawrence took it upon herself to start scholarships for students at Chelsea High School and Chilton County High School in the class of 2026.

Cody Sumners, a Chelsea city councilman, said as word spread that Dori, the fourth teenager, had died by suicide, he started getting calls and texts from members of the community, all with the same message: “We’ve got to do something in Chelsea.”

Soon after, a group — the Chelsea Mental Health Action Committee — had organized around trying to prevent teen suicide. Partnering with mental health groups and the Shelby County Schools, the program beginning this year will train teenagers to help them see signs of mental health distress.

Part of the challenge, Sumners said, is overcoming the stigma about suicide.

“If we can go ahead and make it a regular conversation now, it will be a normal

conversation in 10, 20, 30 years,” he said.

The Chelsea Mental Health Action Committee has since become a subcommittee affiliated with the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Sumners said his goal is to extend the new mental health awareness program to other communities.

What happened in Chelsea, he said, had no rhyme or reason.

“It’s weird, the four deaths we had,” Sumners

said. “They were all just random. There was nothing to connect them.”

Brandi Lawrence thinks the suicide prevention program will help other teens who struggle like her daughter did.

“I believe the program implemented at the high school will help all the way around,” she said.

The work done since Dori’s death has given Brandi Lawrence a purpose, she said. But, that

doesn’t stop the pain.

“I have no child,” she said. “She was my world. It’s just a weird, odd feeling of why her? Why me? There are so many whys.”

But, Brandi Lawrence hopes her foundation, Spreading Sunshine, The Dori Alise Foundation, can help others.

“The main thing is if someone tells you something, even if you don’t know if it’s true or not, at least you tried to help them,” she said.

Left: Dori Lawrence attended the Key Club conference in Montgomery in March 2023, three months before her death. Right: Dori visited Universal Studios with Chelsea High School’s marching band in March 2023. Photos courtesy of Brandi Lawrence.

Trauma, isolation, a choice: Veterans wage mental battle

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

Maybe the details aren’t important now. Maybe it’s best to keep them in the past.

Amanda Gale Parker weighs what’s important to her story. Is it being dragged around the country as a child with a hippie mother? Is it the trauma she suffered in the military? Is it the way she coped with it? Is it a recognition of her “authentic” self that she has found after the dark storms?

Parker, a U.S. Army veteran turned Homewood housewife, turned Realtor, now looks back at the moments that made her and the decision she made to get better.

“It’s when you hit that darkness that you either are done, done or you get help,” she said. “There’s not a lot in between. And, I don’t think that’s specific to the military. I think it’s every human.”

Parker used alcohol as her medication of choice.

“You just numb yourself and you hope all of the little boxes full of experiences stay shut, until they don’t, because they don’t stay shut,” Parker said.

Then there comes a reckoning.

“And then, at some point, you can’t drink enough,” she said.

That’s when she decided to get help. She found Alabama Veteran, a group that helps veterans with their mental health. Through them, she was able to get more help at the Veterans Administration. She has now been sober for more than 1,000 days.

Alan Cook, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and board member of Alabama Veteran, said the group has a wide range of services to help veterans in their struggles, from retreats to connecting veterans with the services they need to get help. They are currently in the process of building a permanent veteran wellness community in Lincoln called Dovetail Landing, where veterans will be able to receive help and job training.

Veterans are more prone to mental health

issues than almost any segment of society. They accounted for 18% of Alabama’s suicides even though they make up only 9% of the population, according to the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs.

The No. 1 factor in veterans’ struggles is re-entering society, Cook said. Veterans are given little time to transition from military life to civilian life, often only one or two weeks.

“Now I feel lost,” Cook said. “Not only do they get left behind, now that mental health

starts to impact them. Now they don’t have a structured living environment. Now they have to focus on how to live and provide for a family. A lot of veterans start to feel the anxiousness, the depression.”

On top of that, Cook said, veterans often suffer from survivor’s guilt.

One message Cook hopes to impart through Alabama Veteran is bringing these issues that are often hidden into the light.

“It’s OK not to be OK,” Cook said. “We want to destigmatize it. We’re trying to normalize it.

The sooner we start to normalize it and provide resources to veterans, the better we’re going to be.”

The message Parker wants to get across, especially for veterans, is there’s help and it’s OK to reach out for it.

“Reach out, talk to someone,” Parker said. “Make sure the people you’re talking to don’t have a vested interest in you not changing. ... People really don’t listen until you’re screaming. Veterans don’t ask for help until it’s too late, usually. I just got lucky.”

Amanda Gale Parker, a veteran of the U.S. Army, talks about her path to wellness.

Photo by Taylor Bright.

Helical Piers

LIBRARY

CONTINUED from page A1

Now the community has been split into two camps: the supporters of the old library board, which refused to force the display to be taken down, and those who objected to the display and found support in the local legislative delegation.

“It has been a not-great year,” said Kate Etheredge, the director of library services, who has resigned to take a job at the Homewood Public Library. Her last day will be Sept. 6.

That not-great year has been filled with both criticism and support of the library since June 2023. The critics who have come to the meetings and submitted comments argue that LGBTQ+ books should either be removed from the children’s section or be removed entirely from the library.

Critics said the display was not age appropriate. Others said the display was “sexually confusing,” an “indoctrination into gay and transgender lifestyle” and would “‘normalize’ LGBTQ+ life to children.” Some referred to “grooming.”

The disagreement rapidly escalated, with the library receiving 29 emails from both supporters (18) and critics (11) in the first week.

The display hadn’t been up for three days before the first email complaint came. It came not from a resident, but from board member Lucy Edwards, telling fellow board member Kay Kelley the display was “not age appropriate for this area.” Further, she wrote that she had heard complaints from patrons.

“I know last year many people complained about the Pride colors used on the ice cream cone ... this year there is a Rainbow color paintbrush in the Lobby that has the rainbow colors - many may see this as another Pride display,” she wrote. “I just wanted to let you know that people are upset about this & will probably be contacting the library and we really need our Patrons!”

This was a warning of what was to come.

By the time the June board meeting rolled around, both sides were prepared. Local and state media attended the event. Before a full house in the board’s meeting room, Edwards made a motion to allow the board to direct library staff to take down displays that were “age-inappropriate” or “questionable.”

The motion failed 4-1, in a victory for those who had supported the display. Edwards resigned mid-meeting.

“The librarians start getting called groomers, start getting abused by certain members of the public,” said Morgan Barnes, the former chairman of the library board, a former Air National Guard member and a self-described “registered Republican.” “We get told we are making bad decisions about the welfare of children coming into the library, and this is said in public comments in follow-up meetings from that point on.”

Soon the fight escalated from a disagreement over the one-month LGBTQ+ display to control of the board.

LEGISLATORS TAKE CONTROL

The Legislature created the Shelby County Library District in 1988 as a nonprofit organization. During the creation of the district, the Legislature mandated the board be elected by a vote of residents of the library district, who all pay a tax that funds the library. That board oversees the operation of the North Shelby Library on Cahaba Valley Road and the Mt Laurel Library.

In practice, the board was often composed of members who ran unopposed or were appointed by the library board to fill out unfinished terms, as mandated by the 1988 law. Those who served on the board were typically active in the local library community, having often been involved in the North Shelby Friends of the Library, a volunteer group dedicated to supporting the library.

Those who objected to the display found a powerful ally in Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover), who represents a portion of the district. In February, Dubose co-sponsored a bill introduced by Rep. Arnold Mooney (R-Indian Hills) and fellow co-sponsor Rep. Jim Carns (R-Vestavia Hills) that would change how the board was constituted.

No longer would there be an avenue for a district-wide election, nor could the board fill its own vacancies. Those would be picked by the legislators representing the

library district — five in total, who are currently all Republicans. Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law in April.

“The problem was the books displayed were primarily about introducing transgenderism to youth,” DuBose said.

In late July, those new members, selected by the Shelby County legislative delegation, were seated to the library board. No members of the old board remained — DuBose said none of them had applied.

Barnes, a retired resident of Meadowbrook, said he had no interest in serving on the new iteration of the board.

“What kind of stupid do you think I am?” he said. “Why would I want to be on a board where the strings are being pulled by the Shelby County legislative delegation?”

DuBose said the new board will have final say on any displays in the library now.

With the new board seated, some residents worry they will begin removing books.

“We all know that’s the outcome,” said Elizabeth Anderson, a resident of the library district who is also the Democratic nominee running against U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer.

But DuBose said the constituents who came to her were more concerned about how the books were displayed than the books themselves, saying “nobody has asked me to ban the books.”

“If they had never been displayed in the middle of the room, I don’t think anyone would have said anything,” she said.

COMMUNITY SPLIT, STAFF IN THE CROSSFIRE

But the critics did say something and ultimately gained control of the board, further cementing the divide between those who supported the display and those who objected to it.

“It has definitely become a them and us kind of thing,” Barnes said.

There is still strong support for the old board.

Of the comments received by the board both in person and online, supporters outnumbered critics 67-45. Since the June 2023 meeting, there have been 48 people who have spoken in support of the old board and 26 people who have voiced their opposition to the display.

2025 bill would put librarians in same category as strip clubs, XXX theaters

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

A bill pre-filed by Rep. Arnold Mooney (R-Indian Springs) would put libraries in the same category as strip clubs, XXX theaters and adult bookstores under Alabama’s criminal code.

HB4, which Mooney prefiled on July 8, would put librarians side by side in the Code of Alabama’s obscenity laws with pornographic professionals, setting up an avenue to prosecute librarians for materials housed in their libraries.

Mooney and two other local legislators — Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, and Jim Carns, R-Vestavia Hills — have signed on as co-sponsors of the bill. The three make up a majority of the legislative group that now selects the board for the North Shelby and Mt Laurel libraries.

The new procedure for board selection came after a decision by the old board not to ban a display at the North Shelby Library that featured LGBTQ+themed children’s books. Previously, the board was elected by a vote of the library district, though many members ran unopposed.

Craig Scott, the president of the Alabama Library Association, says libraries are easy targets for activists.

“Why have we been targeted?” Scott asked. “Do we have that sort of material in our kids department? Absolutely not.”

The proposed addition to the state’s obscenity laws includes public libraries and K-12 school libraries, but it does not include university libraries.

The fight has not been without its casualties. Etheredge said five staff members have left the library since the display was targeted.

“We try and stay positive,” Etheredge said prior to announcing her own resignation.

Barnes is far more pointed in his assessment of what has happened to the staff.

“There has been increased animosity, and it has gotten to the point where the employees of the library fear they will be persecuted and prosecuted if they don’t agree with everything the board puts out there,” he said.

The new board members and DuBose did not plan on changing the staff, they said, and had complimented Etheredge on the job she was doing. But by August, less than a month after the new board took their seats, Etheredge had informed the board she was taking a job at the Homewood Public Library.

“It’s just been a really hard year,” Etheredge said.

Prior to that decision, Etheredge had spoken about how she saw her job at North Shelby Library.

“The library is for everyone,” she said. “That is our mission. To make sure the library has access. There are books on the shelf I don’t like, but it’s not my job to provide books I only like.”

But, Etheredge said, it’s “up to each board to decide where those lines are.”

For Jarrett Dapier, the author of “Mr. Watson’s Chickens,” which was one of the books that was included in the display, the lines are clear.

“It’s incredibly shameful on several levels. Robbing the public of an elected library board is not only anti-democratic and unjust, but installing an appointed board because the previous board sided with the public majority regarding a Pride display smacks of strong-armed, hateful authoritarianism,” Dapier wrote in an emailed statement. “The opponents of Pride books and displays will not be allowed to erase LGBTQ+ folks from existence. They are our friends, family, and fellow neighbors, and deserve to be included, honored, and respected in our public spaces.”

The controversy at the board may have already had the critics’ desired effect. Etheredge said there was not a Pride display put out at the library this past June.

The bill also sets up a process where libraries would be forced to formally respond to any local resident who filed a complaint about materials held at the library and either move materials to an “age-restricted” area, ban materials or decide the materials do not violate the law. If the libraries respond that no further action will be taken, the resident who complained may take the copy of the original complaint and the library’s response to the police.

DuBose said libraries had previously been sheltered from the state’s obscenity laws under an education exclusion, but “book content was very different.”

“The fact is we have to be very careful in curating the selection of books,” she said. “Our librarians and our boards have to make careful decisions about what is housed in our libraries.”

That may mean “it’s time for a book to be removed,” DuBose said.

But, she said, she doesn’t want librarians to suffer the penalties. She imagines a library would be fined if they were found guilty under the new law.

“I don’t think that librarians should be sent to jail,” she said.

At the root of the bill, Scott believes, is a targeted effort by activists to remove any book that has LGBTQ+ themes from Alabama’s public libraries.

“The books they’re focused on are all of the LGBTQ stuff,” said Scott, who also acts as the library director in Gadsden. “The 30 books that have been challenged here in Gadsden, 90% are LGBTQ.”

Niki Smith, the author of “The Deep & Dark Blue,” which sat on the top shelf of the Pride Month display at the North Shelby Library that led to the Legislature’s changes to the library board, said efforts to keep LGBTQ+ literature hidden is part of a movement to “quietly and subtly” ban books.

“When diverse voices are silenced and oppressed, we all suffer,” Smith said. “Treating LGBTQ+ experiences as something 'obscene' that need to be censored is incredibly harmful to young readers who are just desperate to know they're not alone.”

Above: Kate Etheredge, the former director for the North Shelby Library, stands in the children’s section at the library in August. Photo by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

Below: New members of the North Shelby Library board, from left: Paul Garris, Kasandra Stevens and Sam Gaston at their first meeting as board members in July

Photo by Taylor Bright

Sharing savvy: meet Jamie Tarence

Photos by ERIN NELSON SWEENEY

Your health today

written by Dr. Palmer

Siim Land is a renowned fitness buff and longevity expert. He has a new book called “The Longevity Leap” which discusses key factors for optimizing health and lifespan. Maintaining “biological youth” is the single most important factor for longevity, but the question is how to achieve this as we get older. His book is 500 pages, with 8,000 references providing great resources and strategies that will help keep you biologically young.

As research evolves, many changes have been made in how to attain longevity, particularly when it comes to carbohydrates and protein intake. It is recommended that for most adults, about 0.8 grams of protein per pound of ideal body weight. That’s the weight one should ideally be, not necessarily the weight you are now. “If you eat too much protein, that could be problematic from the perspective of kidney health and homocysteine levels. If you’re eating too little, then there’s risk of sarcopenia and frailty,” Land notes. However, it’s not just protein quantity that’s important, it’s also the quality and amino acid balance. For example, glycine and collagen intake are important as well.

Most people are deficient when it comes to collagen intake, as they’re likely only consuming 0 to 1 gram of collagen protein daily. About one-third of total body protein is collagen, so it’s crucial to consume adequate collagen, from foods like bone broth or grassfed ground beef, which contains connective

tissue, or glycine to support connective tissue health.

Regarding carbohydrates, low-carb diets are not typically optimal for longevity. Land cites research showing that moderate carbohydrate intake is associated with the lowest mortality risk. “With carbohydrates, it’s very commonly thought that eating too many carbs is going to be bad for your health. At least in observational studies, it’s the opposite” according to Land. “40% to 55% of calories as carbohydrates is linked to the lowest risk of mortality,” he says. Land argues that while low-carb diets can be beneficial in the shortterm for certain individuals with pre-diabetes or insulin resistance, long-term carbohydrate restriction may impair metabolic flexibility. Adequate ‘healthy’ carbohydrate intake is crucial for optimal mitochondrial function and overall health. It’s the optimal fuel for your mitochondria.

Those that have tried low-carb diets, initially experienced some health improvements, but these benefits are typically not sustainable long-term. Understand, the short-term benefits occur because you’re no longer feeding harmful bacteria to your gut. In the long term, however, if you don’t consume enough healthy carbohydrates, your mitochondrial health will suffer. A more sustainable approach involves addressing the root causes by improving mitochondrial function, reducing exposure to environmental toxins, including seed oils, and

Strive for Biological Youth

supporting a healthy gut microbiome balance.

Beyond proper nutrition, the most powerful intervention to maintain biological youth is exercise! According to Land, “probably the single most powerful thing for biological aging is moderate exercise.” He states, “maintaining physical activity, targets all the hallmarks of aging in a positive way. It improves all organ functions, as well as decreases the risk of many chronic diseases. It targets everything that you need to do when it comes to slowing down biological aging”.

Land suggests that for vigorous exercise like resistance training, the sweet spot appears to be around 140 to 200 minutes per week. However, the reality is, most Americans need to exercise much more, not less. Moderate-intensity exercise like walking is an ideal form of physical activity, as it’s very hard to overdo it. For more information, research Training Strategies to Optimize Cardiovascular Durability and Life Expectancy by Dr James O’Keefe, Missouri Medicine March 2023

Next, sunlight and vitamin D are critically important for longevity and biological youth. Land states, “it’s almost biologically impossible to be healthy if you don’t have enough sun exposure”. He suggests an easy way to enhance your vitamin D absorption is using topical lanolin. “Put lanolin on your skin before going in the sun and it will enhance vitamin D production from sunlight”. Side benefit, it

helps reduce skin drying, cracks, wrinkles and fissures.

In a nutshell, by focusing on foundational aspects of health, you may be able to significantly improve your long-term health outcomes. Consider these strategies to optimize your health and longevity: 1. Exercise regularly, including moderate-intensity activity like walking and about 150 to 180 minutes of resistance training per week. 2. Consume adequate ‘healthy’ carbohydrates (200 to 400g daily for most adults) from whole food sources to support metabolic health. 3. Prioritize protein quality, aiming for about 0.8 g per pound of lean body mass, with roughly one-third coming from collagen sources. 4. Get regular sun exposure and maintain optimal vitamin D levels. 5. Focus on gut health through diet, lifestyle and possibly targeted interventions. 6. Minimize exposure to environmental toxins, including seed oils. 7. Prioritize sleep, stress management and overall lifestyle balance.

Rather than seeking a single magic bullet, the path to longevity lies in the consistent application of evidence-based health practices, regular self-monitoring and a willingness to adapt as new information emerges. At the end of day, a proactive and comprehensive approach to health is crucial to maintain biologically youthful. Resources: mercola.com, siimland.co

NEUROPATHY SEMINAR & FREE SCREENING

Tuesday September 10th, 17th & 24th at 1:30pm or Schedule an In-Person Visit

Learn the latest about reversing Neuropathy without the use of dangerous drugs and surgery.

If you have any of these symptoms, you are welcome to attend: Pain and Burning • Numbness and Tingling • Pins and Needles Muscle Cramping • Balance Issues

CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT! 205-600-0805

*You must call and confirm to attend - Seating is limited. Or schedule an in-person visit in our clinic.

Here’s what patients have to say... I had no idea nerves can heal. The tingling in my hands is 95% better. I was told it would only get worse.” - Beau T.

“I’m now off all my neuropathy meds. And I can feel my gas and brake pedals now! - Benny H. Shelby Neuropathy & Laser Center | 2969 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124 205-600-0805 | shelbyneuropathyandlaser.com

Dr. Stan Stubbs, DC

2024 FALL

MEDICAL GUIDE

UAB Callahan Eye

For information on how to participate in our upcoming 2025 Spring Medical Guide, contact Don Harris at 205-527-6097 or

Keep young eyes

healthy this school year UAB CALLAHAN EYE

The back-to-school season is upon us. And that means it’s time to prioritize your children’s eye health. From fall sports to time spent in the classroom, UAB Callahan Eye is committed to ensuring young eyes are healthy and ready for the school year ahead.

Children participating in sports and outdoor activities should protect their eyes to prevent injury. Wearing polarized sunglasses, sport goggles or widebrimmed hats are good ways to shield eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Taking protective measures during learning hours is also important. When looking at digital screens, children should take frequent breaks to rest and prevent dry or tired eyes. While reducing screen time can be challenging, it is important to protect children’s eyes.

► WHERE: 1720 University Blvd. ► CALL: 844-UAB-EYES ► WEB: uabcallahaneye.org

There’s also no better time to schedule an eye checkup than at the beginning of the school year. UAB Callahan Eye’s six pediatric-focused clinicians are committed to providing the best care for your children’s eyes. With multiple locations across central Alabama, it’s easy to get a check-up and then get back to life.

At UAB Callahan Eye, world-class

pediatric optometrists and ophthalmologists are ready to treat your entire family. And if fall emergencies arise, there’s the Level I Ocular Trauma Center, the only one of its kind in the nation, with 24/7 eye emergency services. It’s no wonder Alabama parents have trusted their families with Callahan for the past 60 years. Making an appointment today is so simple. Find a location near you and start protecting your child’s vision at uabcallahaneye.org.

With multiple locations in Central Alabama, UAB Callahan Eye makes nationally recognized, vision-saving care even more accessible. Our state-of-the-art eye exams go well beyond checking prescriptions to include eye health evaluations, eye pressure measurements, and analysis for other serious medical conditions. As trusted vision experts, there’s nothing in our way of improving people's sight.

See the di erence at uabcallahaneye.org.

The ‘go-to’ place for everything skin

CAHABA DERMATOLOGY & SKIN HEALTH CENTER

When asked what inspired her to found Cahaba Dermatology & Skin Health Center, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Vlada Groysman shared that it was the same desire that guides the practice today.

“My desire to practice medicine in a way that pushed the boundaries of excellence was the spark that inspired the vision for Cahaba Dermatology,” said Dr. Groysman, who serves as the medical director of her practice.

“Founding the practice gave me a blank canvas to build the office around my own goals and vision for what I wanted to do in the field of dermatology.”

In the years since, her vision has come to fruition. There are now three locations of Cahaba Dermatology — Hoover, Cahaba Heights and Tuscaloosa. The practice offers a wide range of services, including medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, as well as laser technologies, body sculpting and skin tightening.

The practice has also added “many new and talented employees,” Dr. Groysman said, including a full team of physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

In addition to their all-star team, Cahaba Dermatology is the “go-to” place for everything skin due to smart investments in education, technology, excellent care, and — most importantly — an intense focus on the patient.

Medicine is a people business, and our people really shine,” Dr. Groysman said. “We are all invested in outstanding patient care, and this translates into a great experience.”

Cahaba Dermatology has also continued to innovate and add new services.

In 2018, the practice added a UV light and laser therapy clinic for psoriasis and eczema patients at the Hoover office and greatly expanded spa services at the Spa Cahaba facility. Featuring the only saltwater float pool in Alabama, Spa Cahaba provides a soothing blend of healing and rejuvenation.

“We’ve added countless, state-of-the-art laser technology options to offer many medical and cosmetic treatments,” Dr. Groysman said.

As the field of injectable aesthetics has grown, Cahaba Dermatology has

mastered new techniques, and Dr. Groysman is a national injectables trainer in the latest advancements for major injectable companies. She shares her expertise both locally and nationally.

Cahaba Dermatology added Mohs surgery and a new surgical suite last year in the Hoover office, with Mohs surgeries performed by fellowship-trained physician Dr. Malia Downing. Compared to some cancer surgeries, Mohs surgeries can offer superior results with improved recovery and cosmetic outcomes for qualifying cases.

The staff at Cahaba Dermatology also

► WHERE: 2279 Valleydale Road, Suite. 100 in Hoover; 3965 Crosshaven Drive, Suite 113 in Cahaba Heights; and 1649 N. McFarland Blvd., Suite 201 in Tuscaloosa

► CALL: 205-214-7546

► WEB: cahabaderm.com

works continuously to stay up-to-date in serving their patients.

“The field of medicine is ever-advancing, and dermatology is no exception,” Dr. Groysman said. “Staying on the leading edge requires a deliberate focus. Our team attends education meetings and studies medical journals, and we invest in new technology.”

The practice even added its own clinical research department.

“Cahaba Clinical Research pushed our office closer to the cutting edge of new drug developments and delivers immediate and long-term value to our patients,” Dr. Groysman said. “We play a very immediate and essential role in the discovery of new pharmaceutical breakthroughs.”

When asked about the future of Cahaba Dermatology, Dr. Groysman said “the roadmap remains flexible.”

Whatever happens, the practice will follow one critical principle. “The needs of our patients will always influence our decisions,” Dr. Groysman said.

“Listening to patients and striving to deliver greater value for them will continue to serve as our model for future growth.”

YOUR GO-TO SKIN HEALTH TEAM

TherapySouth providing

‘Hands On Care, Close to Home — and Work!’

THERAPYSOUTH

Q: Why should someone see a physical therapist?

A: Most often, patients are referred to one of our clinics by their orthopedic surgeon or primary care physician to assist with recovery from an injury or procedure. But, physical therapy is beneficial to anyone seeking pain relief and improved function. The physical therapy approach is to evaluate the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems and address movement limitations or malalignments that are affecting mobility and causing pain. When patients come to physical therapy first, they can often avoid unnecessary surgery and medication. Through intentional exercises and hands-on treatment, patients can get back to their hobbies, everyday tasks and more.

Q: Do I need a doctor’s referral to schedule an appointment at TherapySouth?

A: Patients are able to schedule an appointment without a physician’s referral. Your therapist will perform an initial evaluation to determine if therapy is appropriate for you. They will work with your primary care physician, or physician specialist to create your best care plan. To schedule an appointment, patients can call the clinic directly or visit our website to check appointment availability and set up an initial visit.

Q: What makes TherapySouth stand out in the physical therapy industry?

A: TherapySouth is a private, physical therapist-owned practice that has been serving the greater Birmingham communities for over 15 years. Our numerous convenient locations across the metro area allows us to live out our message of providing “Hands On Care, Close to Home — and Work!” Our staff develop relationships with each patient and truly make the clinic environment feel like a family. With access to quality physical therapy care, we believe we can help our community live better, healthier lives!

Q: What would you like potential patients to know about your practice?

A: We take our core values very seriously. We are a company based on faith that believes in family, integrity, service, compassion, fitness, perseverance, and giving. We try to instill these values in all our employees and encourage them to live them out not only at work as professionals, but also in their personal lives.

Q: What does a first visit look like at TherapySouth?

A: During the initial evaluation, your therapist will

take a thorough history of your condition or injury and review past medical history that may influence your case. Appropriate baseline objective measures will be recorded to evaluate throughout your treatment, such as range of motion and strength. Together, you and your therapist will discuss and set goals to help you achieve maximum function. Your therapist will determine a treatment plan and prescribe a home exercise program for you to perform at home to compliment therapeutic activities performed in the clinic. In addition, skilled manual techniques are utilized to further enhance recovery. Your therapist will communicate and coordinate with other health care professionals as needed to provide optimal care.

Q: Your team offers traditional orthopedic services and wellness services. Can you explain the difference?

A: We are passionate about helping patients go beyond recovery and become stronger and more active in their everyday lives. In addition to traditional treatment for orthopedic injury, we often work with competitive athletes, weekend warriors, or anyone looking to improve their performance. Wellness

Greystone

► WHERE: 2823 Greystone Commercial Blvd., Birmingham

► CALL: 205-408-1713

► WEB: therapysouth.com

Chelsea

► WHERE: 100 Chelsea Corners Way, Suite 100, Chelsea

► CALL: 205-678-7272

► WEB: therapysouth.com

Patchwork Farms

► WHERE: 3056 Healthy Way, Suite 116, Vestavia Hills

► CALL: 205-783-5270

► WEB: therapysouth.com

services include dry needling, KT tape application, stretching, soft-tissue mobilization, and more. Wellness services can be purchased as time block packages to maximize the success of treatment.

Q: How has TherapySouth grown and changed over the years?

A: Our founder and CEO, Steve Foster, PT, started TherapySouth in 2006 with a vision for the practice to be therapist-owned and provide quality hands-on care, close to patient’s home and work. While the practice has grown to over 45 clinics across Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi — our commitment to core values and clinical excellence remains the same. In addition, all clinics are owned and operated by physical therapists – ensuring the highest quality of care for our patients. This growth has led to more opportunities for continued education, specialization in needed services and improving the wellness in our communities. We are excited to continue growing our team and to be able to provide resources and training for our staff to make positive impacts in the lives of their patients.

Bo Dawson, PT, DPT | Clinic Director - Greystone

Q: Who is Medicare Advisors of Alabama?

A: We are a locally owned insurance agency that specializes in helping Alabamians better understand Medicare. Medicare is overwhelming, but once someone with patience and knowledge teaches you the questions to ask and then guides you through the process, the whole thing becomes much less stressful. That’s what we provide: a stress-free Medicare experience.

Q: What does your service cost?

A: Our services don’t cost you anything. We’re only paid by insurance companies if we help you enroll in a plan. Our reputation has been built on word of mouth and living the Golden Rule. Let us prove that to you.

Q: Why does someone need a broker/adviser?

A: There are so many advertisements and plans available that it’s becoming almost impossible to sort everything out on your own. A good broker will help you see the positives and negatives of each insurance company and will work to find the best

MEDICARE ADVISORS OF ALABAMA

insurance under an employer plan.

Q: What is AEP?

A: AEP (or Annual Enrollment Period) runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. If you are already enrolled into Medicare, it’s the time of the year you can make changes to your plan for the upcoming year.

solution for their client.

Q: When does someone need to help me with Medicare?

A: It’s never a bad idea to learn about Medicare at any age. Most people become eligible for it at age 65 or earlier if they become disabled. However, if you or your spouse are still working and have good health insurance you may not need Medicare at all. Deciding when to enroll and what to enroll in are our two most asked questions. Our team can help you make an informed decision.

Q: What if I keep working past age 65?

A: Many people think they’ll face penalties if they don’t sign up for Medicare at 65. That can be true, but not always. You can postpone enrollment beyond age 65 if you or your spouse are still working, and you have health

Q: What is an ANOC Letter?

A: An ANOC letter (or Annual Notice of Change) is what you get from your insurance plan in late September that lists the changes for the upcoming year. If a person needs to make changes, they can use AEP to make those changes.

Q: Where can I get help with Medicare?

A: You can schedule a consultation with someone on our team. We can talk over the phone, meet virtually via Zoom or in-person at our local office, your home, your business or even out at a coffee shop. Once a month we teach a class called “Prepare for Medicare” at our local office. We have lots of fun, and it’s very educational. No specific products are discussed, but it’s a great way to learn the basics of Medicare and get your questions answered.

A better way to navigate Medicare

If you are starting to think about retirement or are approaching age 65, you have probably begun trying to learn more about Medicare. We know it can be confusing to sift through ALL the Medicare plan options and decide which one to choose. All the advertisers offer to give you advice, but they’re just trying to sell you a product.

Medicare Advisors of Alabama is different.

We are independent insurance brokers, which means we are not tied to any one insurance company. Our goal is to get to know YOU and learn about your specific healthcare needs. We are Medicare experts, and we would love to help you cut through the clutter and find the plan that works best for you!

Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham offers women much-needed preventive care

WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS OF BIRMINGHAM

Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham provides the highest quality prenatal to postpartum care for expectant mothers and newborns in a caring, comfortable environment.

Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham offers high-risk pregnancy care, advanced labor and delivery services and educational resources for new parents.

However, one of the most important services Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham offers — and one that more women should take advantage of — is preventive care.

“The well-woman visit, or annual exam, gives providers an opportunity to counsel patients about healthy lifestyle habits and health risks,” said Dr. Alexia Novara.

“When a woman comes for her annual check-up, we discuss menstrual cycle patterns, sexual activity and health, reproductive concerns, menopausal symptoms and any other genito-urinary tract complaints she may have,” Dr. Novara said.

Dr. Novara said she will talk to the patient about her personal medical history, medications and any family history that may affect her health, as well as the immunizations the patient needs based on her age and risk factors.

“The main screening exams that we perform are the breast exam and pelvic exam with a pap smear, but we generally do a head-to-toe overall assessment, as well — especially if there are any areas of concern,” Dr. Novara said.

Well-woman exams are critically important because the physician can determine if the patient may have a potentially life-threatening condition.

“Cervical cancer is often preventable with routine pap smears that can diagnose pre-cancer lesions or HPV related changes on the cervix that can be managed

with minor procedures,” Dr. Novara said. “If routine preventative visits are missed, these are potential missed opportunities to find early changes that can lead to more advanced disease.”

The same is true with breast cancer.

“If we can diagnose early or small changes in the breast with an exam or with a routine screening

mammogram, we can often find earlier stage disease that typically makes treatment options less invasive and more likely to be successful,” Dr. Novara said.

Sadly, not all women are getting the preventive care they need.

“We see so many women who are missing out on routine gynecologic care because they just assume they don’t need it,” Dr. Novara said. “It’s so important for women to have both a primary care physician and an OB/GYN in order to get well-rounded care.”

Dr. Novara grew up in Vestavia Hills, has an undergraduate degree from Auburn University, completed medical school at UAB School of Medicine and finished her OB/GYN residency at Ochsner Clinic Foundation in New Orleans.

She believes strongly that patients should choose Grandview for their OB/GYN care.

“We pride ourselves in giving excellent care to our patients, and our clinical team and staff work day in and day out to care for our patients in a way that is unlike any that I have seen before,” she said.

For more information regarding well-woman exams, Dr. Novara suggests visiting the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website at acog.org/ womens-health/infographics/reasons-to-see-your -ob-gyn-this-year.

For more information about OB/GYN care at Grandview Medical Group, call 205-623-5944 or go to womenshealthgrandview.com.

If you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant, we know you have questions. The physicians at Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham are here to help answer them – and with new providers, including Alexia Novara, M.D., it’s easier than ever to make an appointment. From nutrition and exercise to birth plans and post-delivery support, we are trained and focused on giving you personalized maternity care. And, we’re proud to deliver at The Birthing Center at Grandview Medical Center.

To schedule an appointment, call 205-623-5944 or visit WomensHealthGrandview.com.

Alexia Novara,

Making dental services an experience to look forward to

JORDAN DENTAL STUDIO

For over four years, Jordan Dental Studio has brought dental services and cosmetic beauty procedures to the Birmingham area, with a focus on making their patients feel comfortable.

Jordan Dental Studio offers neck pillows, leg pillows, weighted blankets, or noise-canceling headphones to accompany any appointment, in addition to a selection of snacks and beverages. For those with “severe dental anxiety,” Dr. Brooke Jordan said the studio also has scented nitrous oxide.

“I wanted it to feel less like a dental office and more like a place you just kind of want to hang out,” Jordan said.

To Jordan, it's the relationship with patients that the studio prides itself on. “It’s more like a friendship instead of a patient-doctor relationship,” she said.

Jordan, a Birmingham native, graduated from the University of Alabama in 2013 before receiving her doctorate of dental surgery from Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry in 2018.

Soon after, she returned to Birmingham and opened her own practice in January 2020.

“I wanted my patients to have the best care and decided that that would only [be] accomplished through private practice,” Jordan said.

Today, Jordan Dental Studio offers full and partial dentures, invisalign, veneers, implants, crowns, tooth colored fillings and teeth whitening procedures such as Philips Zoom.

Additionally, the studio performs preventative care procedures, such as x-rays and oral cancer screenings, and

► WHERE: 101 Missionary Ridge, Suite 101, Birmingham

► CALL: 205-995-1450

► WEB: jordandentalstudio.com

► EMAIL: jordandentalstudio@ gmail.com

cosmetic beauty procedures, such as Botox.

“We see a lot of people that don’t want to smile and are not confident in their appearance and I transform that into something that they love,” Jordan said. “It’s just the best feeling when you can change someone’s life like that.”

Jordan Dental Studio is located at 101 Missionary Ridge, Suite 101 in Birmingham. To contact the office, call 205-995-1450 or email them at jordandentalstudio@gmail.com. For more information, go online to jordandentalstudio.com.

GET THE SMILE YOU DESERVE

From smile makeovers to cleanings, we take the time and care to address every patients’ needs.

Treating patients like family

EYES ON CHELSEA VISION CARE

Eyes on Chelsea Vision Care offers its patients a wide range of top-quality services and products.

This includes primary eye care, such as eye examinations and prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses.

Eyes on Chelsea provides myopia control with drops and contact lenses, vision therapy for crossed or lazy eyes, glaucoma treatment and various dry eye and anti-wrinkle therapies.

In addition, optometrist Dr. Jessica Palmer and her staff continue to seek out new products and cutting-edge technologies to better serve their patients.

Eyes on Chelsea also offers excellent service in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

“We treat our patients like family,” Dr. Palmer says. “We greet them with a smile and help them see life more clearly.”

Dr. Palmer also takes the time to fully explain the results of eye exams to patients and describe all of their options.

“I listen to what a patient is telling me,” Dr. Palmer says.

A long-time Chelsea resident, Dr. Palmer received her doctorate at UAB in 2005 and has practiced for almost 20 years in Chelsea and Sylacauga. She was named Shelby County Healthcare Practitioner of the Year for 2022.

In their continuing quest to offer patients more options, Palmer and her staff will soon add aesthetic services, such as eyelash lifts and tinting and various facials.

“We already brought in the Cynosure Envy technology for face and neck fine-line treatments,” Palmer says. “The procedure is a non-invasive, pain-free alternative to Botox.”

The practice also serves the pediatric community, thanks to Dr. Rena Lewis, who has more than 30 years of clinical and teaching experience.

In addition to our comprehensive eye services, come experience our newest esthetic offerings: facials eyelash lifts/tints brow tint/lamination dermaplane microdermabrasion light therapy facial lymph node massage waxing

We also have available radiofrequency treatments for wrinkle repair.

Schedule an appointment with our esthetician, Erin Vavra, by calling 205-980-4530.

Because Gwen came to Children’s for the diagnosis and treatment of her blood disorder, she received the best care available thanks to ground-breaking research made possible by clinical trials for cancers and blood disorders. The research happening today will lead to future cures, and it is happening here at Children’s of Alabama.

For information on how to participate in our 2025 Education Guide, contact Don Harris at 205-527-6097 or dharris@starnesmedia.com.

Alabama School of Fine Arts

The Alabama School of Fine Arts is an ideal place for teenagers in grades 7-12 who wish to follow their passions in the arts, or math or science.

A tuition-free, state-funded public school, ASFA — at 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. — inspires students to develop their creative abilities.

Students choose from one of six specialties: creative writing, dance, music, theater arts and visual arts, as well as math-science.

ASFA students get a well-rounded education from a nationally acclaimed faculty. The school offers AP and honors classes, a college counselor and a dormitory for students living beyond commuting distance. A rigorous curriculum equips graduates with the skills to become experts in their fields.

ASFA is “a next-level school,” and more than 90% of its graduates receive merit scholarships annually, said Tim Mitchell, school president.

The 60 students of the ASFA Class of 2024 “set a new standard for excellence” at the school, he said.

The class as a whole received an astounding $17.3 million in merit scholarship offers.

Nine students were named National Merit Finalists, one was named a Presidential Scholar in the Arts, three

○ Grades: 7-12

○ Where: 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

○ Call: 205-252-9241

○ Web: asfaschool.org

students will attend the University of Pennsylvania and three students earned early admission to UAB Medical School. Students were accepted into and will attend some of the top musical theater, film, creative writing and dance university programs in the nation.

“Their achievements across diverse disciplines … reflect the depth of their talents and the strength of our specialized education,” Mitchell said.

For information, attend ASFA’s prospective student Open House Saturday, Oct. 19 at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. or noon or go to asfaschool.org.

ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS

OPEN HOUSE

SATURDAY, OCT. 19, 2024 9 AM, 10 AM, & 11 AM TOURS

Come take a tour, meet our award-winning faculty, and learn how you can apply! ASFA is a 7-12th grade public, tuition-free school for talented and passionate students.

*No reservations or sign up necessary.

There’s lots of private schools in Birmingham, but Hilltop Montessori is among the most special.

Founded in 1996, the school is located on seven wooded acres in Mt. Laurel near Greystone and Shoal Creek, and the campus is a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

Hilltop Montessori also remains dedicated to the unique, time-tested Montessori teaching methods.

“What sets us apart is our holistic approach to education, which nurtures each child's natural curiosity, independence and love for learning,” said Head of School Emily Nelson.“Children learn at their own pace, guided by trained Montessori teachers who understand and respect each child's unique developmental path.”

Studies have demonstrated that children educated within a Montessori system are more prepared academically and socially than their peers.

A 2023 study published by the Campbell Collective found that a Montessori education provides academic benefits, especially in language and math, when compared to traditional schools. Montessori students also demonstrated stronger executive function and reported a more positive school experience.

In addition, the vibe or atmosphere at Hilltop Montessori “is one of warmth, respect, and joy in learning,” Nelson said.

"Children learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process,” she said. “We foster independence, critical thinking

Hilltop Montessori School

and problem-solving skills.”

This “active participation” enhances academic achievement, builds confidence and a lifelong love for learning, Nelson said.

In keeping with the vibe of its beautiful campus, Hilltop Montessori classrooms are “peaceful and inviting, designed to inspire exploration and discovery,” she said.

The school creates opportunities for students to learn in nature, which is beneficial for their development.

“Students participate in growing food that goes directly into our farm to table child nutrition program, nurturing their bodies and minds,” Nelson said.

Teachers at Hilltop Montessori continually strive to improve, and they stay on top of educational best practices.

The students at Hilltop Montessori benefit daily from the strong connection and partnership between faculty members and families.

“It ensures a seamless transition between home and school life, where parents are actively

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involved in their child's education journey,” Nelson said.

“There's a palpable sense of community among students, teachers, and families, fostering a supportive environment where every child feels valued

and encouraged to thrive,” Nelson said.

“Multi-age classrooms create a community that allows students to teach and learn, lead and follow, and cooperate and collaborate,” the school’s website says.

“Students actively work with each other in what becomes a family-like setting. An extremely low teacher-student ratio offers for an individualized education.”

Montessori education is “even more relevant today than ever before,” Nelson said.

“In a rapidly changing world that values creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability, Montessori principles empower children to become self-directed learners and innovators,” she said.

The school equips students with the abilities they need to work and thrive in the 21st century, including independence, initiative and a passion for learning,

“Our approach not only prepares children academically but also nurtures their innate curiosity and resilience, preparing them to be leaders and innovators in any field they choose to pursue,” Nelson said.

A Haven for Learning

Montessori education fosters a child’s natural curiosity, instills a love of learning and provides one of the most effective and efficacious academic learning environments. Studies have demonstrated that children educated within a Montessori system are more prepared academically and socially than their peers.

Indian Springs School

Welcome to Indian Springs School, one of the top 100 private high schools in America, and the number one private high school in Alabama for the past 10 years. Indian Springs is a coeducational day and boarding school serving students in grades 8-12. Our academic excellence attracts some of the best and brightest students in the Birmingham area, the United States, and around the world.

Our 350-acre campus near Pelham provides a natural sanctuary that inspires our nationally ranked STEM program and world-class art program. Guided by our motto, “Learning through Living,” students can expect a unique educational program centered around experiential learning in an inclusive environment that fosters growth and discovery. Around 90% of our faculty hold advanced degrees and deliver exceptional teaching in our state-of-the-art classrooms.

We encourage students to pursue their passions both within and beyond the classroom. Our diverse student life offerings include special interest clubs, community service opportunities, and a strong athletic program with participation in more than 20 boys and girls varsity sports. We believe the arts are a core component of a balanced education, and our robust theater, choir, visual arts,

○ Grades: 8-12

○ Where: 190 Woodward Drive, Pelham

○ Call: 205-332-0563

○ Email: admission@ indiansprings.org

○ Web: indiansprings.org

and contemporary music programs allow students to explore and express their creativity.

Our alumnus and renowned author John Green ’95 once described Indian Springs School as a place where “all at once I became a learner because I found myself in a community of learners.” Our impact extends far beyond our campus, as we are a passionate global community of alumni, parents, and friends, connecting across generations.

We invite you to visit during our open houses on Oct. 6 and Dec. 8 and see for yourself what makes Indian Springs School so unique.

For more information on admission and need-based financial aid, visit indiansprings.org or contact our admission office at admission@indiansprings. org or 205-332-0563. Applications for the 2025-26 school year will open on Sept. 1.

Shelby County Schools

As the school year kicks off, Shelby County Schools is proud to be the largest school district and employer in Shelby County, boasting 20,613 students and 2,880 employees.

Shelby County Schools is made up of 31 schools from seven school zones, including Calera, Chelsea, Columbiana, Helena, Montevallo, Oak Mountain and Vincent.

Three of the schools are centralized schools that serve the entire county. This includes the Linda Nolen Learning Center, which serves students with special needs; New Direction, the district’s alternative school and home to the Success academic recovery program; and the Career Technical Educational Center, which offers an array of college and career readiness programs.

“Career Technical education, job readiness programs and a strong focus on advanced academics are helping provide multiple pathways to college and careers for all students,” Dr. Lewis Brooks, Superintendent of Education at Shelby County Schools, said.

“Students are exposed to internships and career exploration opportunities in high-demand areas through numerous community partnerships. One great example is our Health Sciences program at Chelsea High School where students are learning in a state-of-the-art simulated surgical learning lab and participating in internships with local health care providers.”

Shelby County Schools believes that

○ Grades: K-12

○ Where: 410 East College St., Columbiana

○ Call: 205-682-7000 or 205-682-7005

○ Web: shelbyed.k12.al.us

encouraging creativity and critical thinking skills is vital for the growth and improvement of its children. That’s why they continue to bring new and improved avenues of learning to each of their schools.

For high schoolers in the district who maintain a C average, Shelby County Schools offers Virtual Shelby, a virtual learning platform.

Additionally, this year, Shelby County Schools is continuing their partnership with the University of Montevallo, which began in 2023, to offer a Health Concepts dual enrollment / dual credit course.

The semester-long course equates to one hour of college credit and meets Alabama’s health requirement needed for graduation. The class also affords students the opportunity to earn a College and Career Ready indicator, which will be required to graduate beginning with seniors in the Class of 2028.

Whether in person or online, Shelby County Schools empowers students to achieve academic excellence and contribute positively to the world.

31 SCHOOLS

Located in 7 school zonesCalera, Chelsea, Columbiana, Helena, Montevallo, Oak Mountain, and Vincent 20,613+ STUDENTS

Shelby County Schools students are being prepared for the journey ahead of them. Regardless of whether their path leads them to college or directly to the military or careers, our students are being prepared for success.

2,880 EMPLOYESS

Shelby County Schools has an award-winning staff of administrators, teachers, and educational support professionals, including 96 National Board Certified Teachers.

UAB Honors College

The UAB Honors College believes that students who seek out an honors experience already have a passion to explore human life, solve problems and create a better future — even before they arrive on campus.

The Honors College seeks to provide the right atmosphere to nurture that fire — then step back and watch students “set their world on fire.”

Students at the UAB Honors College enjoy small class sizes, personal attention and trailblazing coursework.

Innovative Honors seminars feature unique topics with outstanding faculty — including “Reading the Marvel Cinematic Universe,” “Ethical Conflicts in Health Care” and “How Cities Influence Our Lives.”

There are experiences you can’t get anywhere else, offered in a tight-knit community of students, scholars and advisors who learn together, and the beautiful Honors College facilities serve as a home base for exploration and discovery.

The Honors College offers two distinct education paths:

► Personalized Path: Students select from an array of classes to craft their own honors academic experience.

► Specialized Programs: Students

○ Where: UAB Honors Hall, 1321 10th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL

○ Call: 205-996-7190

○ Web: uab.edu/honors

apply to one of three programs with a unique structured curriculum — Global and Community Leadership Honors Program, Science and Technology Honors Program, or University Honors Program.

Honors students who complete required coursework through the Honors Leadership Development Academy will graduate with an undergraduate certificate in leadership.

The Honors College seeks to help our honors students become not just the best they can be, but all they are meant to be.

Students admitted to UAB with at least a 3.5 GPA and a 28 ACT or 1300 SAT score will be invited to join the Honors College.

Students who do not receive an invitation but wish to be considered for the Honors College, can apply at uab.edu/honors.

Virginia Samford Theatre

The Virginia Samford Theatre in Birmingham — through its STARS (Students Take A Role at the Samford) program — provides budding young actors, dancers and singers the chance to learn stage performance in a safe, supportive environment.

The participants learn everything from breath control and singing as a group to choreography and character development.

Their classes are taught by professional teaching artists and educators with a passion to cater to the specific needs of each child.

By offering classes in conjunction with productions, VST Stars gives children the chance to apply what they have learned in a hands-on, collaborative environment.

At Virginia Samford Theatre, the classrooms are the stage and the students are the STARS.

STARS performers also bond with their classmates, creating a diverse community of artists with who they will learn and grow for years.

In addition, the theater is a wonderful place even for young people who don’t necessarily aspire to careers in the arts.

○ Ages: 7-18

○ Where: 1116 26th St. S.

○ Call: 205-251-1228

○ Email: STARS@virginiasamford theatre.org

○ Web: virginiasamford theatre.org

According to the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, drama activities improve reading comprehension and both verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Drama has even been shown to help improve school attendance and boost standardized test scores.

Interested students can submit a virtual audition on the Virginia Samford Theatre website. Auditions should include a video with a 30-60 second monologue and a 30-60 second song with a backing track.

Contact Virginia Samford Theatre at STARS@virginiasamfordtheatre.org or call 205-251-1228.

Virginia Samford Theatre is located at 1116 26th St. S.

The Watts family has trusted Royal for every new ride for years. This time it was Kitty’s turn! Kitty is a tennis player at Vestavia Hills High School, and she needed a new SUV to carry her to school, practice, and everywhere else this new school year will take her. It was our pleasure to match her up with a brand new 2024 Volkswagen Taos with a Basecamp styling kit for a trail-ready look. For every new school year, there’s Royal!

More About the 2024 Volkswagen Taos

The 2024 VW Taos is a compact SUV that leads with efficiency and never lets up. An estimated 36 MPG highway means fill-ups are few and far between. And speaking of affordability, Taos has a lower cost of maintenance than its Toyota, Honda, and Subaru competitors.1 Plus, with standard safety features like front assist and active blind spot monitor, you can feel more confident than ever with a compact footprint on today’s roads. Test drive your new Taos at Royal Volkswagen where I-65 meets Highway 31 in Vestavia. For every ride there’s Royal.

Kitty Watts with her brand new 2024 Volkswagen Taos with Basecamp® styling kit.