OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM
SOCIAL
SPORTS
THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2022
Photo courtesy Trinity United Methodist Church
Alan Hunter joins the 2022 World Games team
Trinity West held a donation drive on MLK Day and more than 100 volunteers from Trinity, surrounding churches and the community came to donate, sort donations and prepare to get needed items to their new Afghan neighbors.
Artists preparing for virtual ArtBLINK Gala
Helping Hand Trinity United Methodist Making Sure Afghan Refugees Have What They Need By Rubin E. Grant
M
ary Liz Ingram remembers watching the news reports of Afghans desperately trying to leave their country in August after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan.
The images of the dangerous chaos left her feeling helpless and disconnected since what was happening was a world away. “I felt like it was all very horrific,” Ingram said, “but I also felt detached. I watched it more as an observer. It was awful, but I never thought I would be able to do anything about it.”
Several months later, in December, Ingram found herself right in the middle of doing something about it. More than 50 Afghan refugees were relocated to Birmingham through the Inspiritus Refugee resettlement program. Individuals and families, who had been liv-
See HELPING, page 11
Decorators’ ShowHouse set to return this spring
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2 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
Inside
Murphy’s Law
T NEW HOME FOR OSCAR AND FELIX Neil Simon’s ‘The Odd Couple’ to appear at Homewood Theatre in new location. PAGE 4
‘WE ALL BENEFIT’ The World Games is not just a Birmingham event, it will sprawl across the OTM area. PAGE 6
NEW HOME Full Circle resale boutique, which employs adults with developmental disabilities, moves to Homewood. PAGE 14
OPEN SHOWHOUSE Decorators’ ShowHouse returns after being postponed due to COVID-19. PAGE 18
ABOUT TOWN NEWS LIFE SOCIAL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OPINION/CONTENTS
3 HOME 6 SCHOOLS 10 SPORTS 14
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otmj.com With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area. To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.
There’s A Spider On The Floorboards
here’s a kindergarten song that must serve as a cautionary tale to their starts out, “There’s a spider on buddies as they gather around the the floor, on the floor …” With porch light. “And he was never seen each verse, the pretend spider makes it again…” farther up the child’s body until it hops I don’t think any of these little critoff the top of his head and the song ters set out to stow away in my vehistarts all over again. That’s the way it cle. More likely, when the door is in kindergarten. The songs never slammed shut, panic set in. Flies and end. moths always react by hanging onto I thought about that the other day the windshield for dear life. For some when I looked down to see a tiny spireason, my spider friend decided to der web under the emergency brake make himself at home. pedal in my car. Understand that this Maybe he didn’t intend to stay is the same car that I sit in, feet in that Sue Murphy there underneath the brake pedal. exact same location, most every day of Maybe the web was simply a nervous my life, which made the spider gesture, a bit of familiarity to calm spotting so disconcerting. I mean, Maybe he hopped out his little eight-legged nerves. Or the spider could just as easily have maybe he figured, “What the heck?” and found himself decided to venture farther and make and thought he might as well try to a side trip up my shoelaces. catch an in-flight snack. at the Birmingham I know how he got there. I roll I didn’t see the spider skitter Botanical Gardens, the car windows down every time I when I vacuumed up the web. I where he is now pull into the garage, mostly to air have to hope that he made a daring out any lingering drive-thru odors, escape somewhere along the way. living the high life in although I don’t know why, since He may be living a more urban the shrubs and trees adventure in the dentist’s parking lot French fries and chocolate chip cookies both smell delicious. Still, it with a bunch of new off Montevallo Road. He might be seems like a good idea to start at an dodging traffic at the post office on vagabond friends. olfactory zero each and every day. Highway 119. Or maybe he got So, like I said, I know how the lucky. Maybe he hopped out and spider got in. What I don’t underfound himself at the Birmingham stand is “why.” The point of building a web, as I recall, Botanical Gardens, where he is now living the high life is to trap insect prey. My car floorboards don’t seem in the shrubs and trees with a bunch of new vagabond like a place that would see much insect foot traffic, but friends. then I didn’t know the spider was there, either, so I I guess I’ll never know, but I am happy to have been could be wrong. Sure, occasionally, a fly or moth gets part of the journey. Even happier that he did not set out trapped in the car and takes an unplanned trip to a farup the Nike pathway, through the Lee Jeans pass and off location like Publix (far off for a fly, I’m guessing). up either of the 100% cotton sleeves to the pinnacle of When I open the car door, the fly zooms out and begins Mt. Shampoo-Rinse-Repeat, where he would have most life in a new locale. For some reason, moths take a little definitely been sent (with a scream) back to the floor to more coaxing, but in both instances, their disappearance start all over again.
Over the Mountain Views
Wildly Successful
J O U R N A L January 27, 2022 Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writer: Ally Morrison Photographer: Jordan Wald Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd Vol. 32, No. 12
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2022 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
The Birmingham Zoo raised more than twice its goal in the “Be Wildly Supportive” year-end fundraising campaign. The campaign goal was $50,000, but it netted the zoo more than $113,000 for its Emergency Animal Fund. The funds will provide food and essential care for more than 550 animals, including many endangered species, according to a statement from the zoo. Zoo members, donors and animal-loving citizens contributed to the appeal. “Our community is one of the most philanthropic in the nation,” zoo board President Nancy Collat Goedecke said. “This confirms how giving our neighbors are. We are so
grateful for the public’s investment in their zoo, allowing us to continue our tradition of providing expert care for these animals and serving as one of the top family-friendly educational destinations in our state.” Birmingham Zoo President and CEO Chris Pfefferkorn said the outpouring of support was “incredible.” “Through this support, our community has shown compassion for the diverse animals that call the zoo home and has shown their support of and appreciation of zoo staff. The amount of support has been inspiring and heart-warming. We’re looking forward to an active spring season and invite everyone to visit their Birmingham Zoo soon.”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
JAN. 27 - FEB. 12 Thurs., Jan. 27 International Holocaust Remembrance Day Commemoration
Birmingham Holocaust Education Center will host Second Generation Holocaust Survivor, Esther Gerson Levy via Zoom, where she will share her family’s Holocaust experience, followed by a Q&A session. Where: Zoom, Virtual Event When: 5:00 p.m.
Friends of the Library/ Author and Photographer Ken Boyd
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 3
ABOUT TOWN Feb. 4-20 Glengarry Glen Ross at Birmingham Festival Theatre
Enjoy a story of four Chicago salesmen and their supervisor who work together to sell undesirable real estate at inflated prices Where: Birmingham Festival Theatre When: Fri-Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m.
Mon., Feb. 7 Friends of Hoover Public Library: State of the City Address
Hoover Mayor Frank V. Brocato will be giving his State of The City Address. Refreshments at 9:45 a.m., the program begins at 10 a.m. Where: Hoover Public Library When: 9:45 a.m.
Thurs., Feb. 10 “Your Story Matters” presented by Allison Allen for Legacy League
Legacy League’s annual scholarship luncheon will be held at Vestavia Country Club with guest speaker
Birmingham photographer and author Ken Boyd will be speaking. Coffee and refreshments served before the presentation begins. When: 10 - 11:30 a.m. Where: Vestavia Hills Library Community Room
Allison Allen. Proceeds from the event will provide life-changing scholarships for students with financial needs and challenging circumstances. Reservations required, tickets can be purchased for $55. Where: Vestavia Country Club When: 10:45 a.m.
Legacy League Hosts Allison Allen, Women of Faith Dramatist
Broadway actor, Bible teacher, and Christian writer will share a message entitled “Resilient Hope”. Reservations required, tickets can be purchased for $15. Where: Dawson Memorial Baptist Church Chapel, Homewood
ARE BACK WE RELOCATED TO !
Sat., Jan. 29
PREMO FACTORY
Community Seed Swap at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
When: 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 11-27 RMT: Once On This Island
From the Tony Award-winning songwriting team of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Seussical, Ragtime), comes the Olivier Awardwinning musical Once on This Island. When. Thurs. - Sun. times vary. Where: RMT Main Stage Website: redmountaintheatre.com
ABOUT TOWN continued on page 4
AARREEBBAACCKK EE E BACKTOTO ! ! W RELOCATED R AW RELOCATED ! WE RELOCATED TO PREMO PREMO FACTORY PREMO FACTORY FACTORY
Find new and captivating seeds to grow, as the Botanical Garden celebrates National Seed Swap Day with their first-ever community seed swap. Learn tips and tricks, and share the love of plants with others. Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jan. 27- Feb. 28 Winter Family Geocaching Scavenger Hunt
North Shelby Library will be partnering with Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a virtually-aided scavenger hunt at the Botanical Gardens. After finishing the hunt, participants can enter for a chance to win a prize provided by Botanical Gardens. Registration required. Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens When: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tues., Feb. 1
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Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s Concertmaster & Friends Series
Concertmaster Daniel Szasz will pay tribute to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., along with special guests tenor Roderick George and pianist Anthony Pattin. Where: Samford University’s Brock Hall When: 7:30 p.m.
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Feb. 3-5 Lil’ Lambs Consignment Sale
Trinity United Methodist Church’s popular children’s consignment sale will provide gently worn children’s clothing and accessories, serving as a fundraiser for Trinity’s Children’s Ministry. Where: Trinity United Methodist Church, 1400 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood When: Presale will begin on Feb. 3, Friday 9 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
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4 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
New Home for Oscar and Felix
By Ally Morrison Homewood Theatre will be showcasing its latest production, Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple,” at its new location in SoHo. Originally a 1965 Broadway show, “The Odd Couple” in 1968 was turned into a film, followed by a television series in the ‘70s. The version being produced by Homewood Theatre is an adaptation Neil Simon did in 2002. The plot features two mismatched roommates, uptight and neat Felix, played by Howard Green, and easygoing and disheveled Oscar, played by theater Executive Director Kyle Bass. “Together, they have a poker club, and comedy ensues from there,” said play Director Marietta Lunceford. Lunceford originally is from Chicago but moved to Birmingham at the age of 4. She got involved in theater through her father’s interest in theater at a Jewish Community Center. Her father lost interest after a few productions, but Lunceford never did. Bass is the one who selected “The Odd Couple” as the first show of the
new year. “I’ve always loved the show, I’m a big Neil Simon fan,” Bass said. “We did ‘Barefoot in the Park’ a few years ago. It seemed like a natural fit. Especially this year coming back from the pandemic, we wanted to give our audience good shows and shows they knew. Everyone knows ‘The Odd Couple,’ so getting to play a part in it is going to be fun.” Bass became involved in theater during high school in Rogersville. He went on to study at BirminghamSouthern College and participated in a few theatrical events during his college years. His interest in theater continued as he worked with Virginia Samford Theatre, and he wondered how a Homewood community theater would work out. Homewood Theatre was established and put on its first production in 2017. Green, who plays Felix, is from Pinson. He recently retired from the railroad after 30 years. Green got involved in theater when a friend invited him to participate in a local play. Reluctantly, he obliged.
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Journal photos by Ally Morrison
Neil Simon’s ‘The Odd Couple’ to Appear at Homewood Theatre in New Location
“The Odd Couple” cast members at a recent rehearsal of the popular Neil Simon Broadway show, from left: Raymond Quintero, Shawn Reese, Howard Green, Steven Ross and Kyle Bass.
“I ended up doing the show I was invited to do, and I fell in love with it,” Green said. “It’s been a saving grace for me for the past 20 years now. I love working with Homewood Theatre and under the direction of Marietta. Her production falls beautifully in place. She’s a great director and very knowledgeable. With Kyle running it, it’s great. It’s a fabulous organization.” Among his favorite productions were “Gray Gardens,” “Gypsy” and the Jewish Community Center’s “My Favorite Year.” He also remembers The Odd Couple series and said it always was special to him. According to Bass, Homewood Theatre underwent hard times during the start of the pandemic, canceling two shows at the end of its 2019/2020 season and being unable to have a 2020/2021 season. “One of the things we did during the pandemic was an outdoor show, called Working Without Pants,” Bass said. “It was an original show, and we got people to tell their pandemic stories. It was the largest audience we’ve
Sat., Feb. 12 ABOUT TOWN continued from page 3 Alabama Symphony Orchestra Superpops: Birmingham Does Broadway: Celebrating Love
Music from Les Miserables, Evita, West Side Story, The Music Man, and more during this crowd favorite performance. Where: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall When: 7:00 p.m.
SAVE THE DATE Mon., Feb. 14 Happy Valentines’s Day!
Homewood • Cahaba Heights • Huntsville
Alabama Theatre Presents Casablanca Celebrate Valentines Day at
Play Director Marietta Lunceford, center, with Howard Green, left, who plays Felix Unger and Kyle Bass , right, who play Oscar Madison in Homewood Theatre’s upcoming producition of “The Odd Couple”.
had, of 250 people. We social-distanced in the parking lot, and it was a lot of fun. During the pandemic, it was hard. This summer, we eased back into things and, eventually, in August of 2021, we geared up for our 21/22 season.” Homewood Theatre is in the process of moving locations, due to the
major changes being considered at Brookwood Village. “We are going to have a new location in Soho Square, on the corner of 19th Street and 28th Avenue South across from Demetri’s,” Bass said. “The Odd Couple” runs Feb. 10-20, and tickets can be purchased online at homewoodtheatre.com.
Alabama Theatre with a showing of Casablanca. Enjoy the movie with your date, and the Theatre’s variety of special holiday drinks. Where: Alabama Theatre When: 7:00 p.m.
Five remarkable youth will compete to be awarded Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Alabama. The award is centered around leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle. Where: The Club When: 5:30 VIP & Alumni Reception, 6:30 Award Ceremony and Celebration
Wed., Feb. 16 Celebrating Olmsted at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
American landscape design pioneer Frederick Law Olmsted will be presenting a special lecture, along with historian and filmmaker Laurence Cotton. Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens When: 10 a.m.- 11 a.m.
Thurs., Feb. 17 Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Alabama Youth of the Year Awards
Sat., Feb. 19 Unless U Got Talent
The Lyric Theatre downtown will host the “most entertaining night of the year”, featuring students of Unless U that will partner with Birmingham locals to compete for the title of Unless U Got Talent Champion. Acts include live painting, Disney sing-alongs, and hiphop performances. Where: The Lyric Theatre When: 6:30 p.m.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 5
NEWS
6 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Officials with The World Games spoke this month to the Hoover Service Club about the impact the event will have on the Birmingham area. From left: Josh Bryant, World Games chief financial officer; Kathy Boswell, World Games executive vice president of community and volunteer engagement; and Debbie Rutherford, Hoover Service Club member.
‘We All Benefit’ The World Games is Not Just a Birmingham Event, It Will Sprawl Across the OTM Area
By Ally Morrison The World Games, coming to the area in July, is not just a Birmingham event, officials with the international sporting event told Hoover Service Club members during their January monthly meeting. Games will take place at venues spanning from Birmingham to Oak Mountain. The event is expected to bring in more than 500,000 spectators, many of whom will be eating at area restaurants and staying at area hotels. More than 1,500 credentialed members of the media are coming in from around the world. Combined, World Games visitors are projected to book in the neighborhood of 32,000 nights at area hotels. The estimated economic impact of the games is $256 million. “Where the games are held, between Birmingham and Oak Mountain, those places are the connection,” Kathy Boswell, World Games executive vice president of community and volunteer engagement, told club members gathered at Hoover Country Club on Jan. 13. “Because everyone is connected, it goes to show that not just one place benefits from it, and because we all benefit, it helps us to understand the importance of staying connected,” she said. “It’s another reflection of the unity of what these games are all about. It’s a reflection of what will truly change the world.”
The World Games is an 11-day international multi-sport event that works hand-in-hand with the International Olympic Committee. This will be the World Games’ 40th anniversary and the largest international event in the southeast since the 1996 Olympics. Birmingham initially was selected to host the 2021 World Games, but the event was delayed a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It will feature more than 30 sports – including archery, bowling, flag football and ju-jitsu – and occupy more than 25 venues. More than 3,600 elite athletes from more than 100 countries will be involved in the games, including Olympic medal-winning competitors. More than 600 medals will be awarded, including 200 coveted gold medals, according to the World Games’ website. All athletes will be housed courtesy of Birmingham colleges UAB and Birmingham-Southern in what Boswell referred to as “athlete villages.” These universities also will house an estimated 1,500 coaches and technicians, all while supplying three meals a day. “We are very thankful,” Boswell said. “This is just another way that organizations and entities have stepped up to say, ‘We’re with you.’”
Hundreds Working on Event The games will kick off with an opening ceremony, including live entertainment and special effects, at
UAB’s Protective Stadium on July 7. “Hundreds of local people have been working behind the scenes to make this happen.” Boswell said. “Hundreds of people who believe have quietly been serving, giving and supporting and have been willing to help to see this event succeed.” Honorary co-chairs of the games will include Charles Barkley, Randy Owen, Vonetta Flowers, Noah Galloway and Cat Reddick Whitehill, according to World Games Chief Financial Officer Josh Bryant. And more recently, Alan Hunter has been named a co-chair of the event. See story nearby. Inclusivity will be highlighted throughout the event. For the first time, the international multi-sport event will include an adapted sport, wheelchair rugby. It also will highlight co-ed sports. Sports such as lacrosse will be played by separate men’s and women’s teams, but co-ed teams also will play to promote gender equality in the competition. During the Hoover Service Club meeting, Boswell encouraged members to broaden their horizons and learn about sports that are different than what they are used to seeing. “I don’t want us to just show Southern hospitality,” Boswell said. “I also want people to see that we are willing to learn something different. It’s one thing to be nice and kind to people but another thing to open up your mind and heart to be able to learn something new.”
Mountain Brook native, film producer and original MTV VJ Alan Hunter is the latest prominent Alabamian who has been announced as an honorary co-chair of The World Games, being held in Birmingham in July. “I’m excited about The World Games 2022 because it’s going to feature sports as well as amazing live music and entertainment,” Hunter said. “Fans of sports and music – which covers just about everybody – will want to be part of this incredible experience. So do I, which is why I am thrilled to return to my hometown as an honorary co-chair. The fact that The World Games will focus the world’s attention on Birmingham makes it even more special to me.” World Games 2022 CEO Nick Sellers said: “Simply put, Alan Hunter is a Birmingham icon and a champion for the Magic City. We are extremely proud to have someone of his caliber on The World Games team.” Hunter entered American pop culture during his years as one of the five original MTV VJs in the 1980s. After returning to Birmingham, he and his brother Hugh formed film and television production company Hunter Films, which earned an Academy Award nomination for the short film “Johnny Flynton” in 2003. He now appears on SiriusXM Satellite Radio as a daily host for the 80s on 8 and Classic Rewind channels and the weekly podcast I Want My 80s. He lives in St. Louis with his wife, Elizabeth, and their two sons. Other Birmingham-area ventures of Hunter’s included partnering with his three brothers to create WorkPlay
‘Fans of sports and music – which covers just about everybody – will want to be part of this incredible experience.’ ALAN HUNTER
– Birmingham’s first entertainment venue with sound stage, recording studios, concert halls and offices. Hunter also was the founding president of the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival, which is in its 22nd year. Hunter joins Alabamians Charles Barkley, Randy Owen, Vonetta Flowers, Noah Galloway and Cat Reddick Whitehill as honorary cochairs. Barkley, who grew up in Leeds, is a former professional basketball player and a television sports analyst. He’s also known for his interest in politics and occasionally has toyed with the
Photo courtesy
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Alan Hunter Named Honorary Co-Chair of The World Games 2022
Alan Hunter is the latest prominent Alabamian who has been announced as an honorary co-chair of The World Games, being held in Birmingham in July.
idea of running for governor of Alabama. Randy Owen, born in Fort Payne, is lead singer of the famed country band Alabama. Vonetta Flowers, of Birmingham, won a gold medal in bobsledding in the 2002 Olympics, becoming the first Black ever to win a gold medal in the winter Olympics. Noah Galloway, born in Birmingham, lost one leg and one arm in Operation Iraqi Freedom but rebounded and maintained his interest in extreme sports, starred on Dancing with the Stars, wrote a popular memoir and became a motivational speaker. Cat Reddick Whitehill, who grew up in Birmingham, is a retired professional soccer player and former member of the United States women’s national soccer team.
Entertainment at the Games
The opening and closing ceremonies will feature a 75-piece World Games Orchestra and its Youth Choir, as well as performances by country music supergroup Alabama, Jamey Johnson, Pastor Mike Jr., Taylor Hicks, Chuck Leavell, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Bo Bice, Worth the Wait and Reuben Studdard. Funk and R&B legend Bootsy Collins will serve as master of ceremonies. Dr. Henry Panion III, professor of music and director of music technology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, serves as the artistic director of The World Games 2022 and is creating the musical score for the ceremonies. Alabama Power is presenting sponsor of the Opening Ceremony, while Coca-Cola Bottling Company United Inc. is presenting sponsor of the Closing Ceremony. Tickets to games, including to the opening and closing ceremonies, can be purchased online at twg2022.com.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 7
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Homewood Update Mayor Gives a Peek Into City Workings During State of the City
By Ally Morrison
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
mayor said. “I want to say a special thank you to Sgt. (John) Carr for his Homewood Mayor Patrick hard work in putting this application McClusky presented the State of the together. The men and women of City address at the Homewood Homewood Police Department work Chamber of Commerce very hard to keep our citluncheon Jan. 18, recapizens and businesses ping last year’s accomsafe, and I am very proud plishments and giving of the work they do each insight into plans for the year.” coming year. Additionally, Going on now, McClusky said McClusky said, the city Homewood has released is leading a campaign to a Citizen Portal, allowing provide comprehensive residents to alert the city geofencing ads during of issues such as power the 2022 World Games. Homewood Mayor outages, sewer and water The campaign aims to issues and traffic conPatrick McClusky make Homewood guides cerns. available to people in all stadiums, The Brookwood Village Mall hotels and venues designated for property has been purchased, and World Games events and provide a McClusky said Homewood officials map with a guide to shopping and are working closely with Mountain dining in Homewood. Brook on its redevelopment. Homewood also is producing Additional companies also will videos to highlight the community be establishing a presence at as part of that effort. Wildwood Centre, including The city recently unveiled its Chipotle, Hibachi and the return of new Homewood Police App, which Chick-fil-A. will be available for use in the near In 2021, Homewood implementfuture, McClusky said. ed a new physical fitness training “We are excited to be rolling out regimen for the Homewood Fire the new Homewood Police App very Department. The department soon so that citizens can easily received the highest rating of 1 by access traffic reports and changes the Insurance Services Office, and and crime statistics, among other the department is expecting to rank things, from their phones,” the just as high during its 2022 inspec-
Grandview Names Homewood Woman Assistant CEO Ashley Mathews has been appointed assistant chief executive officer of Grandview Medical Center. Mathews, a resident of Homewood, has more than a decade of health care experience, including seven years Ashley Mathews at DeKalb Regional Medical Center in Fort Payne. There, she held leadership roles such as executive director of operations and business development, director of professional outreach, marketing director, recruitment director and interim executive director of employed clinics, holding responsibility for overseeing the management of DeKalb’s primary care, neurology, pediatrics, interventional cardiology and orthopedics clinic operations. Mathews also has experience in practice acquisitions and expansions and strategic planning. She began her health care career in Gadsden with Quality of Life Health Services Inc.,
where she was director of marketing and public relations. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations with a concentration in management from Auburn University and her master’s degree in health administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Mathews serves on the Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center’s Leadership Team and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Medical Group Management Association and the Alabama Rural Health Association.
President & CEO Earns Inspector Award Birmingham Zoo President and CEO Chris Pfefferkorn has been recognized as one of three Accreditation Inspectors of the Year by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Commission. The award Chris Pfefferkorn spotlights zoo and aquarium professionals who donate their time to facilitate
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
NEWS tion, the mayor said. Less than 1% of departments across the nation achieve the rank. Last year, Homewood City Schools was named No. 1 in the Best School District in the Birmingham area listing by Niche. “One of the most important aspects of our community certainly is our award-winning school system.” McClusky said. “Our superintendent, Dr. Justin Heffner, and
McClusky said Homewood has released a Citizen Portal, allowing residents to alert the city of issues such as power outages, sewer and water issues and traffic concerns. school board have endured so much over the last year, and I certainly applaud their efforts while undergoing one of the most difficult times in our system’s history. I am very proud of the work he and the board have done making difficult decisions in uncertain and ever-changing times, while also continuing to improve the excellence we have come to expect from the Homewood school system. McClusky said there are a variety of other projects in the works for 2022, and he thanked residents and officials for their support. inspections for fellow organizations and whose work is of exceptional quality. “We are elated that Chris has received this important award,” Birmingham Zoo Deputy Director Lori Perkins said. “It speaks to his professionalism and commitment to our industry. He has dedicated hundreds of hours to helping other zoos attain the highest standards. The Inspector of the Year award demonstrates Chris’ vast experience and professionalism.” Before becoming president at the Birmingham Zoo, Pfefferkorn was senior vice president at the Birmingham Zoo, deputy director of Living Collections at the Oregon Zoo, general curator at the Ellen Trout Zoo and a zookeeper at the San Antonio Zoo. He also has worked with the Chipangali Large Carnivore Project in Zimbabwe, which focuses on leopard and brown hyena conservation. The association is a nonprofit group that grants accreditation to programs, organizations and institutions based on meeting or exceeding established standards and best practices. Fewer than 10% of about 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture acquire the accreditation. The Birmingham Zoo is one of only 235 zoos and the only one in Alabama to receive AZA accreditation.
Photo courtesy UAB
8 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
Dr. Selwyn Vickers is a world-renowned surgeon, pancreatic cancer researcher, and pioneer in health disparities research.
Vickers Becomes CEO of UAB Heath System
Dr. Selwyn Vickers, senior vice president for medicine and dean of the Heersink School of Medicine at UAB, has assumed the role of CEO for the UAB Health System and the UAB/ Ascension St. Vincent’s Alliance. He also will continue in the dean role. Vickers replaces the retiring Will Ferniany, Ph.D., who led the Health System for nearly 13 years. Dawn Bulgarella, previously the chief financial officer for the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System, has taken on the role of senior operational leader and president of the system. She is also the chief financial officer for the UAB/ Ascension St. Vincent’s Alliance and is responsible for combined annual budgets in excess of $5 billion. Reid Jones continues in his role as CEO of UAB Medicine, rounding out the senior management team along with Dr. Tony Jones, chief physician executive. Vickers, a member of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences, is a world-renowned surgeon, pancreatic cancer researcher, pioneer in health disparities research and native of Demopolis. He took on the role of dean in 2013 and was a member of the surgical faculty from 1994 to 2006. He spent the intervening years as chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Minnesota Medical School. He earned his medical degrees and completed his residency at Johns Hopkins University. Among Vickers’ priorities is to battle disparities in health care in Alabama by building on UAB’s outreach to provide affordable health care to people throughout the state despite socioeconomic barriers. “From a young age, I knew I wanted to practice medicine; but more than that, I wanted to make a difference in the lives of other people,” Vickers said in a statement from UAB. “Throughout my career, I have been passionate about clinical care, research and education. I have been the medical student, the trainee, the researcher, the
physician, the teacher and the administrative leader. “As we move forward into 2022 and the years beyond, UAB will continue to pursue high-quality patient care and the best possible patient outcomes, and continue to grow our nationally recognized programs to transform this part of the country into a healthier place to live and work.” Vickers was a founder of the UAB Minority Health and Health Disparities Research Center and was principal investigator of UAB’s first Specialized Programs of Research Excellence for pancreatic cancer. He was inducted into the Alabama Academy of Honor, class of 2021. The academy recognizes living Alabamians for their efforts and accomplishments in serving the state and country.
Realignment at UAB
Vickers said aligning the Health System with the School of Medicine in a combined CEO/dean role is common among academic medical centers. “A singular leader can fuse the interests of all groups at our enterprise and take a thoughtful approach to finances, operations and outcomes of both worlds,” he said. Additionally, he said, “Ongoing alignment is achieved through our ability to focus on creating excellence in our individual lanes, then coming together in unity for the shared goal of improving the quality and outcomes for our patients.” UAB President Ray Watts praised Vickers and the rest of the leadership team in the statement. “The selection of Dr. Vickers as CEO of both the Health System and the alliance will ensure a seamless transition of executive leadership and an uninterrupted commitment to excellence,” he said. “We are proud to have this extraordinarily talented team of leaders, who will elevate our ability to provide the best patient care for our community, state, region and nation.”
Now Under One Roof! OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
NEWS
Leadership Vestavia Hills Names Odle, Vines as Leadership Award Winners
Leadership Vestavia Hills has announced Karen Odle the recipients of the 2021 Community Odle is a native of Jasper who settled in Leadership Awards. Vestavia Hills as a young professional. She Antoinette “Toni” Vines, founder and presijoined the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce dent of Mercy Deliverance Ministries, will staff in 2002 and plans to retire in April. receive the Distinguished Citizen Award. Karen During her tenure, the chamber has grown Odle, president of the Vestavia Hills Chamber from 296 members to 1,102 and has implementof Commerce, will receive the ed programs to improve the economLifetime Achievement Award. ic well-being of the city and ensure a The two will be honored at a high quality of life. She has helped dinner Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. at Vestavia many small businesses navigate Hills Country Club. This event also grant, loan and other funding opporcelebrates the organization’s 25th tunities to help them keep afloat duranniversary. ing the COVID-19 pandemic. Vines is a longtime Vestavia She previously was employed at Hills resident who grew up in BellSouth and then was a freelance Mulga. consultant for large companies in the She founded Mercy Deliverance area. Ministries out of concern about Antoinette “Toni” She is married to Steve Odle, and communities in the Birmingham Vines the couple has two children, Erin and area and beyond where people Tyler. needed health care and food, as Odle is heavily involved in well as a path out of poverty. The Vestavia Hills schools and in 2001 ministries’ mission is to break was appointed to the Vestavia Hills cycles of poverty through the delivBoard of Education, where she ery of fresh food and produce, served five years, including a year as health care and education. president. Before that she was a volAt the ministries, she organizes unteer and then PTA president at volunteers to work on such projects Vestavia Hills Elementary West. as monthly food-box distributions, During her tenure, she pushed for a a mobile grocery store in a bus, discomputer in every classroom and tribution of care packages to the trained teachers to use them. For that homeless, the American Heart Karen Odle accomplishment, she was given the Association’s Historically Black Golden Rule Award from JC Penney. Colleges and Universities Scholars’ She later served as president of the partnership between Auburn University and Vestavia Hills PTA Council. She is a 1998 gradTuskegee University, and the development of a uate of Leadership Vestavia Hills and a 2007 mobile health clinic. graduate of Leadership Birmingham. Vine’s family — husband Tim and three She and several other Vestavia Hills residents daughters, LaTrisha, Hannah and Angelica also in 1999 formed the political action group are involved in the effort. Vestavia Voters with Visions to get new leaderFor 24 years, Vines worked in nursing, ship in city government by backing a slate of including as a nurse supervisor at Brookwood candidates for mayor and City Council. Baptist Medical Center in the Neonatal Tickets for the dinner are $50 and can be Intensive Care Unit and as a clinical nurse in purchased at leadershipvestaviahills.com and in UAB’s 1917 Clinic, which serves adults with the chamber office. For sponsorship informaHIV/AIDS and hepatitis patients. She also has tion, contact Penny Lewallyn at lewallyn@aol. served in the U.S. Army Reserve. com or call at (205) 223-7381.
Exceptional Foundation Taps Nonprofit Pro as Its New President and CEO The Exceptional Foundation has named Sara Newell its next president and CEO, effective Feb. 14. She replaces Tricia Kirk, the foundations longtime president and CEO, who is retiring. “I am thrilled by the opportunity to build on the incredible work of so many committed people who are already making such a big difference in the lives of people with disabilities and their famSara Newell ilies,” Newell said in a statement from the foundation. “The mission of the Exceptional Foundation is just that – exceptional – and it will be my honor to serve in this capacity.” The foundation provides adults and children who have intellectual disabilities with social and recreational activities to promote healthy living, social relationships and life skills.
Newell joins the foundation from her position as senior vice president of community impact for the United Way of Central Alabama. Previously, she ran agency relations and campaign allocations for the agency, overseeing the distribution of about $28 million each year. She has been the agency’s lead organizer for the Bold Goals Coalition of Central Alabama, which drew together more than 200 organizations that work to create positive, measurable community change in the realm of health and education. Newell serves on the board of Birmingham Promise. She was named a Top Influencer Under 40 by Birmingham magazine and named in About Town magazine’s article “Who’s Next, the Future Generation of Local Women Leading the Way.” She also was recognized as a Trailblazer by that magazine. She also has served on the boards of the Alabama Association of Nonprofits and Hands On Birmingham, and she’s a graduate of Leadership Birmingham.
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 9
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LIFE
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Photos courtesy
10 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
Sarah Mason
Natalie Zoghby
By Ally Morrison
T
he O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB’s advisory board will host the 37th annual ArtBLINK Gala in a virtual format Feb. 4. The event will feature 20 local artists who create original artwork live. These pieces will be available for bid or purchase during the event via an online auction. Proceeds from the event will support top-priority projects in cancer research and care through the cancer center. Meet three artists participating in this year’s event.
Natalie Zoghby
Natalie Zoghby, a Birmingham artist originally from Hoover, is excited to participate in her fourth ArtBLINK Gala. She said she’s always been an artist. She attended Hoover High School, where she took a multitude of art classes. She then continued her education at the University of Alabama studying fashion. Zoghby has been painting, drawing, teaching and doing commissioned work since she was in high school. After earning her undergraduate degree, she attended grad school and obtained a graduate degree in arts and medicine. With her degrees, Zoghby teaches art in hospitals around Birmingham. “I taught a painting class with the VA, working with spinal cord injury veterans,” Zoghby said. “I work with seniors and adults with disabilities to bring creative experiences to hospitals and community centers. It’s different from art therapy because we’re not trying to change behavior. It provides people with creative enrichment and something fun to do.” Zoghby’s art originally focused on abstract works. When the pandemic began, she revealed, she stopped
Sally Boyd
Supporting the Arts and Cancer Research Artists Preparing for Virtual ArtBLINK Gala
painting. “I was working from home, my son’s school was closed, and there was so much going on that I just quit painting,” Zoghby said. “I rested, and that was just what I needed. Between late 2020 and early 2021, I was finally able to begin painting again and started working on one of my current collections, Women of Influence.” Her artwork from this collection is on display at Houseplant Collective in Avondale. The collection features inspirational women of 2020, including Dolly Parton, Lizzo, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Amanda Gorman. “The main painting in this collection is a portrait of Dolly Parton with a vaccine needle and butterflies that represent her donations that helped with the vaccination,” Zoghby said. “It features a lot of women that I felt, in all of their individual work, did amazing things to advance women.” This will be Zoghby’s fourth ArtBLINK event, and she said it is her favorite event in Birmingham. “I think it’s so interesting because there’s always something to watch,” Zoghby said. “People are making art and they’re always so different. I’m excited about this year’s gala because last year they came to our house to film, which was wonderful, but this year we are able to go in small groups and film together.” Zoghby said the event is fun because all artists participating work on the same project with the same goal to raise money for the University
of Alabama at Birmingham. She enjoys seeing how participants interpret art differently. Currently, Zoghby is employed by United Way’s Meals on Wheels. She is head of operations in the kitchen and helps with the program and its fundraising.
Sarah Mason
Birmingham artist Sarah Mason is thrilled to be a part of ArtBLINK for her fourth year. “I moved to Birmingham in 2007 and started painting in 2016,” Mason said. “For me, painting started more as a self-therapy hobby that I was doing on the side and, surprisingly, it turned into my career. I grew up in Kansas City and studied music and just carried into the arts. I never realized it would actually encompass the visual arts, but it did.” According to Mason, her new passion has been an exciting opportunity and career change, as she previously taught music full time. “I am a watercolor painter, but I use the paint differently than the average watercolorist,” Mason said. “I use the paint in a more abstract way, it’s more of a unique modern-contemporary abstract.” Mason details how she came to value her passion for painting by understanding the relationships of colors. “I feel like I can put colors together in a way that people can really relate to, such as capturing the
moment of a sunset.” Mason got involved with ArtBLINK after her now-retired uncle, who was employed at Kirklin Clinic, encouraged her to participate. “I inquired about participating, and they said they would love to have me,” Mason said. “I have done two live ArtBLINK Galas and did the virtual event last year. I love it. I love participating because I know all the money raised goes back to the cause of cancer research.” Mason is looking forward to being involved in the event and is excited to see how much money will be raised through the gala. “In a way, I feel like people are being more generous because they know it has been harder to raise money and hold fundraisers,” Mason said. “I’m excited to see how much pieces sell for and, hopefully, we can break some records.”
Sally Boyd
To Birmingham artist Sally Boyd, ArtBLINK holds a special place in her heart, as she began participating after having gone through chemotherapy for ovarian cancer in 2015. “I am an ovarian cancer survivor. I always said I would have never done this before cancer because I don’t like to be on stage,” Boyd said. “But once that happened, I thought this was a way I could give back to UAB, for research for early detection for ovarian cancer. It touches many people and that is my reason to do it. I don’t do it
for the purpose of my art career, but for the purpose of ArtBLINK.” Nature-inspired artwork fills Boyd’s portfolio, with picturesque works of landscapes and trees. “I have always been inspired by nature,” Boyd said. “When I look back at my work, it is usually related to nature in some way. Nature is always changing.” Boyd is from Birmingham and attended Mountain Brook High School. She studied art at the University of Alabama and got back into painting full-time in 2006. “I grew up in Birmingham but moved to Atlanta and different places. But I came back,” Boyd said. When asked what brought her back to Birmingham, Boyd simply replied, “home sweet home.” Boyd is part of a local non-profit organization named InSpero, which aims to foster creativity and has a mission of bringing beauty to Birmingham and healing the city. Boyd describes her excitement for this year’s event and explains how amazed she is by the event organizers. “I love seeing other artists and what they are doing,” Boyd said. “As artists, we are pretty isolated in our own studios doing our work. It’s fun to see what they are working on. I’m amazed by the organizers of the event. They’ve had to shift from a live event to a virtual event, and they have done a great job.” In 2020, Boyd was awarded ArtBLINK’s Patrons Choice Award. Each year, one winner is selected for the award by the cancer center director, along with members of the advisory board. To compete, participating artists are required to exhibit two pre-made works of art, which are judged before the live-painting portion of the event. After the winner is selected, their art is hung in the cancer center along with past Patrons Choice Awardwinners.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 11
LIFE
Photo courtesy Trinity United Methodist Church
son for about an hour. The purpose of the visits is to help Afghans with everything from bills, to shopping lists and navigating through a culture that is very different from their own. “I keep saying they’re our new friends and neighbors,” Ingram said. “They have already been through so much pain and loss. We want to make them feel comfortable and welcomed and not just help with their basic needs. We want our kids and families to get to know them and interact with them.”
HELPING From Page One
ing on military bases, began arriving just before Christmas with essentially only the clothes on their backs. Ingram, outreach coordinator at Trinity United Methodist Church, was prepared for their arrival because of what she already had been doing during the COVID-19 pandemic for neighbors in the West Homewood community where she and her family lives. “I started doing stuff at my house for friends and neighbors during the pandemic,” Ingram said. “People would drop off things in the yard and it just grew. We had about 40-50 people who would come by on Thursdays and Fridays to get stuff, so we moved it to Trinity West Homewood.” People already were dropping by
‘They have already been through so much pain and loss. We want to make them feel comfortable and welcomed and not just help with their basic needs. We want our kids and families to get to know them and interact with them.’ MARY LIZ INGRAM
Trinity to get things they needed, such as food, clothes, furniture and other household goods. So, when the Afghan refugees made their way to Birmingham, Trinity partnered with Inspiritus to lend a hand. “We welcomed them, helping them with anything they needed,” Ingram said. “This is a new land and a traumatic experience for each of them and a long process that they are still enduring.” The refugees are in the process of moving into apartments this month, so Trinity West held a donation drive on MLK Day. More than 100 volunteers from Trinity, surrounding churches and the community came to donate, sort donations and prepare to get needed items to their new Afghan
Volunteers at Trinity West unload a truck of donated household items for Afghan refugees.
neighbors. “We took over the gym to give them whatever they needed,” Ingram said. “By networking with several area organizations and churches, we can play a huge part in making this time of transition more comfortable and help these families and individuals get the items they need to restart their lives here in the United States. “It’s all based on generosity. There has been a spectacular response.” Trinity also has set up an Amazon wish list for new items that can be purchased and shipped to the church, which will then be taken to the Afghans’ apartments. Betsy Mishoe, a Hoover resident and the new community engagement specialist in Birmingham for Inspiritus, is appreciative of the partnership with Trinity. “The outpouring of support from Trinity has been wonderful,” Mishoe said. “We are excited to partner with them.” For more than three decades, Inspiritus, formerly Lutheran Services of Georgia and Lutheran Services in Tennessee, has promoted programs to build welcoming communities for refugees and immigrants. As of Jan. 21, Trinity had welcomed eight Afghan men, a young couple and a family of four, providing them with clothes, food, furniture and some household items. Because the security and confidentiality of the refugees is a high priority, their identities are withheld and they are not available for interviews. But they have experienced an outpouring of support from the community. “The only story I have is seeing how many who have come here and didn’t hesitate to jump in to make sure they have what they need,” Ingram said. “It’s a happy community moment.”
Building a Care Team
Trinity is hoping to put together a Care Team for more personal engagement, which would require a relational commitment to a couple of individuals or a family. Those interested would have to take part in training through Inspiritus. Each person on the Trinity Care Team will have to commit to visiting with the family once a month in per-
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12 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
Rehab Reality... by Judy Butler
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
LIFE
New Home
Full Circle Resale Boutique, Which Employs Adults With Developmental Disabilities, Moves to Homewood
To: From: Date:
A new Full Circle boutique has opened in Homewood, providing more opportunities for people living with development disabilities to find meaningful and fulfilling work. A grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony has been set for Feb. 3 at noon at the new location, 2902 Linden Ave. in downtown Homewood. The upscale resale women’s boutique, which is a nonprofit, had been housed by the Levite Jewish Community Center since opening in 2020, and workers were happy to be in their new space. “Since moving into Homewood, it has been fantastic. We have felt really included and valuable,” Executive Director Brooke Bowles said during a Dec. 19 event. “We really wanted to choose a city where the people would embrace our diversity, and Homewood was at the top of our list.” The nonprofit provides employment for adults living with developmental disabilities, including autism
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Oh yes it can. We speak with families that are dealing with a child or family member who have become addicted. Opioids seem to be the latest focus when at the same time there are many other things that can be just as dangerous. We’re not saying the focus shouldn’t be on opioids because there is truly a crisis in that area. What we are saying is there are many other things that seem safe because they line the shelves of convenience and drug stores. Some of those are energy drinks; energy shots while perfectly safe taken in small quantities can be deadly for some when taken to the extreme. What happened to water, coffee, tea and the simple things we used to drink with meals and casually? Fortunately they’re still there we just have to remember. Interestingly, we’ve had clients who have asked before coming to Bayshore Retreat if they could drink coffee there. Duh, yes. At Bayshore Retreat our staff counsels clients on everything from money management, to relationships, to the possible dangers of other everyday substances that can derail their newfound health. We’re often asked why we would allow clients to bring their cell phone and laptop – easy, these things often tell us more than the clients do because so often they’re such a part of everyday life that the clients don’t realize how toxic some of the calls and emails can be. Our advantage with only six (6) clients at a time is that we know what’s going on. Our goal is to help our clients gain healthy control of his or her life.
By Ally Morrison
Part of the Full Circle Thrift Store Homewood team, left to right: Esther Lipsker, Bama Hager, Henley Hager, Rabbi Levi Weinbaum, Executive Director Brooke Bowles. Henley is served Full Circle’s mission to employ adults living with developmental disabilities.
spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injuries. Adults with developmental disabilities are often underemployed or unemployed. A team of neurotypical volunteers work daily alongside the adults served by Full Circle. Founder Rabbi Levi Weinbaum envisioned and created the store after founding the Friendship Circle, a program for teenagers and adults with special needs, in 2012. The Friendship Circle is a buddy system that pairs volunteers without disabilities with those who have special needs. As the teenagers involved with the Friendship Circle grew into adults, Rabbi Weinbaum noticed they needed opportunities for employment, which led to the opening of Full Circle. “We have a young woman, Julia, who is very involved with the Friendship Circle, and Julia loves fashion. We had our model employee that helped us envision the idea of a women’s resale boutique,” Bowles said. Associate Julia Fargason said she enjoys her work at the boutique. “I like working at Full Circle because I get job experience and can
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work towards paid employment.” Fargason said. “I like the people I work with and enjoy meeting and getting to know new people. It helps my self-esteem to feel like I am part of a business.” Alabama Hager, Full Circle volunteer and autism parent, said the store fills an important role in her son’s life. “Like any parent of a young adult, I want Henley to be happy,
healthy, have friends and enjoy meaningful work,” Hager said. “Full Circle allows him the opportunity to be in the community and interact with coworkers and volunteers while being productive. I appreciate the mission and the work of Full Circle in Birmingham.” The resale boutique is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
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‘Positive Person’
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 13
LIFE
Rodney Davis Presented Key to the City for His 30 Years at Otey’s Tavern By Ally Morrison
Journal photos by Ally Morrison
ed to Davis’ work ethic and personality. “He has such a genuine spirit as a person,” Rodney Davis, long-time chef and beloved Haver said. “He is the most positive person I’ve personality of Otey’s Tavern, was presented a Key ever met in my life, and I’ve never seen him have to the City on Jan. 18 by the Mountain Brook a bad day. Rodney is loved by everyone because Mayor for his service and dedication to the popuhe is always smiling and has such a positive spirit. lar Crestline Village restaurant He is extremely talented from and Mountain Brook commua culinary perspective, but I nity. think who he is as a person As Mountain Brook Mayor makes those cheeseburgers Stewart Welch handed Davis taste a little bit better.” the Key to the City, he thanked When asked what Otey’s Davis for all he has done for Tavern meant to Davis, he the community and residents replied that it meant family. of Mountain Brook. “Otey’s is a fun place and a Rodney Davis has been the fun atmosphere where we take face behind fan-favorite hamcare of the customers and the burgers and savory meals at customers take care of us,” Otey’s Tavern for 30 years. Davis said. “That’s the way Customers who frequent the it’s always been. Most of the establishment love the restaucustomers here say I’m family rant, the staff and Davis’ to them, and I say they’re famRodney Davis has been the face charming personality. ily to me. I’ve been to many behind fan-favorite hamburgers Davis said he was grateful and savory meals at Otey’s Tavern weddings, baptisms and other and honored to receive such events. They invite me, and I for 30 years. an accolade from the city. show up. It’s just family.” “This means everything to me, from a city that Haver agrees with many that Otey’s and I’ve grown to love for over 30 years,” Davis said. Mountain Brook, are made better by Davis. “I love the residents and the people here. It is just “Rodney really embodies Otey’s,” Haver said. the pinnacle of my career here at Otey’s. I am so “We’re all about friends, family and the commuoverwhelmed and can’t say anything but thank nity. Rodney being here, being who he is as a peryou.” son, brightens everyone’s day, makes everyone oming, Housekeeping, Friends, family and city officials gathered to want to come to work and makes all of our guests Medication Reminders celebrate Davis and his accomplishments. want to come to support Otey’s. Rodney is treWill Haver, co-owner of Otey’s Tavern, attestmendous.”
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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Baleigh Moody and Brad Carver.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
he Robert E. Reed GI Cancer Research Foundation held its 3rd Annual Christmas Cocktail Party Dec. 10 in memory of John Michael Pierce. In June 2021, Pierce was diagnosed with stage IV esophageal cancer. Since its inception in 2002, the Reed Foundation has been dedicated to raising money for research and patient care to fight some of the deadliest cancers of all, including colorectal, esophageal, pancreatic, stomach, liver, bile duct, gallbladder, and appendix, to name some. “Tragically, John Michael left this earth on November 17th. The legacy he left behind was enormous, and the past month has been very tough for all who knew him; however, the night of December 10th offered us the chance to celebrate his life. If you ask anyone who was there, they will tell you that they could feel his presence,” host Matthew Farris said in a statement. The decision was made by hosts of the event to sell tickets to the event to raise money to be donated to the charity. “We are pleased to announce we were able to raise over $5,000 for the Robert Reed GI Foundation in his memory, and we look forward to the day a cure is found,” Farris said. ❖
Anna Leigh Rumbley, Abby Champion and Katie Brown.
Katherine Dodson, Genie Muir-Taylor, Cameron Bruce, Kathryn Brown, Madeline Jarvis and Katie Arrington.
Michael Woods, Conner Estess, Gaines Belcher, Thomas Woods, Matthew Farris, Sam Harvey and Brendan Gorman.
Maggie Beasley, John Eagan, Drew Brown, Elena Cassinelli, Hannah Haygood and Robert Sorrell.
Ashlyn Payne, Luci Moore, Enna Abel, Charlotte Turner and Charlotte Brakmann.
Caroline Reinhardt and Chris Cusimano.
Morgan Bryant, Abigail Jackson and Katelyn Riant.
Cameron Aaron and Bree Beckwith.
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SOCIAL
Holidays in the Hills
Festive floats paraded through Liberty Park on Dec. 12 with community members lining the streets to watch the annual Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade. Taking off along Liberty Parkway to Alston Meadows, local businesses, community groups and organizations created Christmas-themed floats and tossed treats to girls and boys. The event concluded with a celebration in the park that featured local vendors and food trucks. ❖
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade Takes to the Streets of Liberty Park
Vestavia Belles Catherine Cassimus, Madison Daniel and Laura Catherine Jackson with Collier Estes and Greer Estes.
Anne Bell and Alex McDaniel.
Now Accepting
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Britt and Andrea Bowens.
Connie Moss, Lori McNamara and Wes Moss.
16 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
TREATING SCOLIOSIS
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SOCIAL The 78th annual Holiday Assembly was held Dec. 17 at The Country Club of Birmingham. Presentees typically are high school juniors; however, this year they included seniors, as well, because the 2020 ball was postponed during the pandemic. The 65 presentees and their dates had a private seated dinner on the night of the ball. Then, escorted by their fathers, the young ladies were presented in the club’s East Room. A dance followed for the honorees and their friends.
78 Years and Counting
Holiday Assembly Presents Juniors and Seniors in December Ball
Through research and continuing education, Sharon Fussell, above, discovered that Scolio-Pilates® offers more healing and treatment than the previous options of observation, bracing and surgery.
Sharon Fussell offers one-on-one pilates training in her fully equipped home studio as exercise for clients who seek to manage back problems such as scoliosis. She is passionate about helping her clients be their best selves as they elongate and strengthen their bodies. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, scoliosis (an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine), affects 2 to 3 percent of the population, or an estimated 6 to 9 million people in the United States. Fussell noticed how many people were suffering from scoliosis and decided to learn more about the diagnosis and treatment so she could help those living in pain from this affliction. Through research and continuing education, Fussell discovered that Scolio-Pilates® offers more healing and treatment than the previous options of observation, bracing and surgery. Sharon decided to receive additional training in California and studied under the founder of ScolioPilates®, Karena Thek. In addition to the Scolio-Pilates® certification, Fussell is the only Scolio-Pilates® instructor in Alabama (authorized May 2018) and has completed various training, including Pilates Method Alliance certification in 2013. She also teaches Pilates on a one-to-one basis for people that don’t have Scoliosis. Fussell moved back to Birmingham fromChattanooga last year on August 1, 2021 and decided to build a home in Vestavia with a loft area specifically designed to help her pilates clientele. Sharon’s favorite pieces of equipment are the Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair. Her studio will open February 2022. For more information about Scolio-Pilates®, Pilates, or to make an appointment for a consultation, please email Sharon at dfsf1963@ comcast.net or call (423)991-1757. pilatesinbirmingham.com
The seniors presented were: Julia Fletcher Abele, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Fletcher Abele Jr.; Harriet Huntress Crommelin Adams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Seth Adams; Emily Browning Amason, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gilbert Amason III; Anna Caroline Bates, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Reed Robertson Bates; Julia Elizabeth Bedingfield, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Olaf Frey and Mr. Joseph Pearson Bedingfield Jr.; and Martha Bickley Bowron, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Matthews Bowron. Evelyn Islay Brady, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Henry Brady III and Ms Elizabeth Edgerton Brady; Amelia Hayes Brown, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Fletcher Brown; Alice Caldwell Byars, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Oliver Byars; Bentley Collier Carroll, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Jones Carroll IV; Catherine Grace Christian, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George William Christian; and Caroline Sumner Davis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Jon Davis. Sarah Welles Edwards, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Hugh Edwards II; Ann Sutherland Elliott, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rolling Elliott; Lucy Broadwell Evans, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Parker Evans II; Lila Banks Everette, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Smith Everette III; Elizabeth Pierce Grisham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery David Grisham Sr.; and Eliska Channell Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Davies Hood Jr. Emma Elizabeth Hughey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Fletcher Hughey III; Lauren Elizabeth Johnston, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. James Michael Johnston Jr.; Gillan McCoy Kerns, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hutchison Kerns Sr.; Virginia Grace Knight, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Bailey Knight III; Margaret Cater Kracke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Lee Kracke Jr.; Ellison Bay Matthews, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dean Dillard Matthews; Madeline McRae Mitchell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Guy Kenneth Mitchell III; Sadie Ann Patton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Pegues Patton; Beverly Head Perkins, daughter of Mrs. Marie Hillery Head and the Late Mr. Giles Gilpin Perkins, escorted by her brother, Mr. Hugh Kaul Perkins; Mary Lucy Redden, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Walton Redden; and Virginia Pendleton Slaughter, daugh-
Photo by Dee Moore
Senior Presentees
High school seniors presented at the 78th annual Holiday Assembly, held Dec.,17 at The Country Club of Birmingham.
High school juniors presented at the 78th annual Holiday Assembly, held Dec.,17 at The Country Club of Birmingham.
ter of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Hanson Slaughter.
Junior Presentees
The juniors presented were: Ava Elizabeth Canterbury, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edwin Canterbury; Lucy Lanier Clapp, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Brian Clapp; Carole Elizabeth Clegg, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Franklin Clegg III; Frances Adeline Cobbs, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Glenn Cobbs; Temple Woodson Coleman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bibb Coleman; Eleanor Cromwell Estes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Hugh Estes IV; and Caroline Jeffers Fowlkes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Stratton Fowlkes IV. Mimi Colette Frei, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Frei; Ashton Brooke Glaub, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Allyn Glaub; Julia
Hopkins Gresham, daughter of Mr. William Maxwell Gresham Jr. and Ms. Elizabeth Wood Gresham; Virginia Randolph Hood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Davies Hood Jr.; Caroline Bishop Hornsby, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Wayne Hornsby Jr.; Sarah Coleman Hornsby, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Wayne Hornsby Jr.; Sarah Catherine Inskeep, daughter of Mr. Steven Robert Inskeep and Mrs. Leigh Flowers Inskeep; and Louise Margaret Kerr, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Davidson Kerr. Elanor Crawford Kinderman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Alan Kinderman; Kerry Elizabeth Lyons, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Champ Lyons III; Janie Lee Moody Moncus, grandaughter of Mrs. Claude McCain Moncus and the late Mr. Moncus, escorted by her uncle, Mr. Frank McCorkle Moody; Margaret Nim Sandner Phillips, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Frank Hardy Phillips; Sawyer Elizabeth Simmons, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Haston Simmons Jr.; and Margaret Elizabeth Sims (in absentia), daughter of Ms. Caroline Coleman Edwards and Mr. George William Sims II. Sarah Philips Smith, daughter of Ms. Catherine Pittman Smith and Mr. Bedford Lampkin Smith; Lillian Clark Stewart, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James David Stewart III; Breese Sullivan Tierney, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Brian John Joseph Tierney; Grace Katherine Vaughn, daughter of Mrs. Elizabeth Seibels Ogletree and Mr. Joseph Collin Vaughn; Charlotte Goodner Walthall, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kennon Dade Walthall; Ally Elizabeth Williams, daughter of Mr. Thomas Craig Williams and Ms. Melanie Buttram Williams; and Jane Perry Willis, daughter of Ms. Miriam Simmons Willis and Mr. John Perry Willis IV. ❖
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Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 17
Introducing Custom Valentine's Boxes! Photos by Dee Moore
Can we Make one for you?
Redstone Club’s 2021 Club President Frank Crockard with wife Winn and 2020 Club President Greg Curran with wife Emily.
Holiday Sparkle
Tell us what your Valentine loves and we will create a special Valentine’s gift with all their favorites!
40 Young Women Presented at the Redstone Club’s Annual Christmas Ball The Redstone Club’s 114th annual Christmas Ball was held Dec. 18 at the Country Club of Birmingham. More than 150 members of the Redstone Club and their guests attended the group’s annual Christmas celebration. Carole Sullivan installed the Christmas-themed decorations for both the seated dinner, which preceded the ball, and the East Room of the Country Club, were the presentation was held. The 2020 ball was canceled because of COVID-19 fears, and so the recent celebration included two classes of presentees, combining recent graduates who were to have been presented in 2020 and current college seniors. Presentees wore traditional long white dresses and gloves and carried simple flower bouquets, a complement to their chosen escorts in black tuxedo tails. Last year’s Redstone Club president, Gregory S. Curran, and his wife, Emily, presided over the presentation of the young women who had been scheduled in 2020. And 2021 club President Francis H. Crockard III and his wife, Winn, received curtsies from this year’s presentees. Ball co-chairmen were William Spencer South, who attended with his wife, Cari, and William Bernhart Wahlheim Jr., accompanied by his wife, Cary. For more on the event see our Jan. 13 issue. ❖
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2021 Redstone Ball presentees include: Isabel Brownlee Coleman, Helen Claire Tynes, Virginia Cobb Witherington, and Mary McLaurine Trammell. See our Jan. 13 issue for more presentees.
Redstone Women’s Committee: Shannon Holt, Bethay Allen, Kim Bloodworth, Fluff Roberts and Jane Huston Crommelin.
SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS! To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 205-823-9646 or email: editorial@otmj.com
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Journal photos by Ally Morrison
The 565-acre Hallmark Farm estate features a well-known lake, barn, and manor.
Open ShowHouse Decorators’ ShowHouse Returns After Being Postponed Due to COVID-19
By Ally Morrison
T
he Decorators’ ShowHouse is making its much-anticipated return. After being suspended for two years because of the pandemic, the event returns this year and will be held April 23-May 8 at Hallmark Farm, organizers announced. The showcase is an annual fundraising event for the Alabama Symphony, sponsored by the Symphony Volunteer Council. Participating designers choose a room at the estate to decorate. They can enhance and redesign their chosen space from floor to ceiling, which ultimately results in a variety of styles and art throughout the house. Hallmark Farm, located off Interstate 65 in Warrior, was developed by Fred and Mary Hallmark. The 565-acre estate features a well-known lake, barn, and manor. It’s a landmark for passersby on the interstate, who during Christmas time can see cascading lights on Hallmark Barn and the floating Christmas tree in the lake. Alabama Symphony’s Executive Director Mark Patrick described how excited he is for the return of the ShowHouse to Hallmark Farm. “For many years since I was a kid, I’ve always seen it and thought it was cool and wondered what it would be like to look inside,” Patrick said. “To come
out of the pandemic and be able to get such an iconic property, it’s really great. I’m really excited about it. I think it’s a great opportunity. People haven’t been able to do much, so to be able to come back in such a grand fashion and have such a great place to work with, I think there will be a lot of interest in it.”
‘To come out of the pandemic and be able to get such an iconic property, it’s really great. I’m really excited about it. I think it’s a great opportunity.’ MARK PATRICK, ALABAMA SYMPHONY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
According to Patrick, Decorators’ ShowHouse is the biggest fundraiser of the symphony’s supporting auxiliary groups. “It’s such a long-standing tradition,” Patrick said. “I’ve been with the orchestra for almost 18 years, and it was well established when I started.” “The Volunteer Council contributes proceeds from the event to the symphony’s general operating funds, but they are also a big supporter of our education programs,” Patrick said. “Every year they hold a compeSee SHOWHOUSE, page 20
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20 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
From page 18
tition for a young musician to win a scholarship. They sponsor a young, up-and-coming musician with a competition, and the winner gets a scholarship and an opportunity to play with the orchestra.” Additionally, Patrick described
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how much the Volunteer Council has done for the orchestra. According to Patrick, when the orchestra fell on hard times in the ’90s, the Designer Lynne council purCoker will be parchased all of ticipating in her the orches14th Decorators’ tra’s assets, ShowHouse. including the music library and equipment, and held onto it until the orchestra came out of bankruptcy. When the orchestra came back, the Volunteer Council had all of the necessary equipment to get the orchestra back on track. “I’m very excited about the event,” Patrick said. “After seeing it before being decorated, it’s going to
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SHOWHOUSE
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From left, Warrior Mayor Johnny Ragland; ShowHouse co-chair, Cheryl Floyd; ShowHouse chairman, Pam Wood; Executive Director of Alabama Symphony Mark Patrick; President of Alabama Symphony’s Volunteer Council, Molly Bee Bloetscher; Alabama Symphony public relations coordinator, Nan Teninbaum; and Jefferson County chief of staff Othell Phillips.
be a real treat to see the results after.” This year, designer Lynne Coker will be participating in her 14th Decorators’ ShowHouse. “It’s been two years, so I think everyone is even more excited than before. It’s always so fun,” Coker said. “In the master suite, where I will be working, there are French
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moldings. The thing that will be such a fun challenge is how to incorporate design elements that are ‘of the moment’, in a more traditional room. The key will be balance.” According to Coker, her design style is ever-changing. She enjoys working with a traditional style of interiors, but after collaborating
See SHOWHOUSE, page 23
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with her clients’ and learning about their personal tastes, she has grown to love other variations of design. President of the Volunteer Council, Molly Bee Bloetscher, details challenges that have been faced planning the ShowHouse due to the pandemic. “With this project being on hold
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KADCO Homes Your Vestavia Hills Homebuilder
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ith over 40 homes slated for the Vestavia Hills area, KADCO Homes is who to call if you’re in the market for a new home. With a variety of Vestavia Hills locations, price points, and home styles, we will have something for you! KADCO Homes is a local company that has been in business for over 35 years and we want to work with you! Find out more at kadcohomes.com.
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Remodel and Renovate with Homewood Carpet and Flooring
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Avondale Specialty Hardware If you’re starting to get overwhelmed with all the choices you need to make for your new home or remodel, you can certainly find the help you need at Avondale Specialty Hardware, located inside the HGH Hardware Supply showroom in the Birmingham neighborhood of Avondale. “Whether you lean toward the contemporary, prefer a classic look, or want to add a touch of whimsy, you’ll find it here,” says Avondale design consultant Renee Smith. “We can help you select the perfect hardware for your style and your space. If you’re building new, bring us your house plans, and we can find every piece you need.” January is a good time to think about goals and resolutions for the year. “It’s always a nice time to take it a step further
than just resolutions—make sure your home is functioning properly,” Smith said. “Think about those spaces you haven’t given any love to all year, or any rooms that need some attention. Our suggestions are just a start, but we hope it gets you thinking about more possibilities.” As for choosing the best finishes for your hardware, Smith says, “Unlacquered brass is very popular as a living finish that develops a patina over time.” Avondale Specialty Hardware is a division of HGH Hardware Supply, which has been serving cabinet makers since 1963, and was recently acquired by Richelieu America, Ltd. Avondale Specialty Hardware is located at 3912 2nd Ave S in Birmingham, 205-5104232
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HOME will line the streets of the estate for ShowHouse ticketholders to purchase food and drinks during the event. Tickets are available now on the
Decorators’ ShowHouse Facebook page. Advance tickets are $25 through April 22. Tickets can be purchased at the door for an increased price of $30.
Journal photo by Ally Morrison
In 2019, Hallmark Farms Cooperative, a group established by the Jefferson County Commission and the city of Warrior, purchased the farm with plans to redevelop.
From page 20
for two years, we weren’t going to give up.” Bloetscher said. “When you have this much interest in the house already, you know that it will be a big turnout. People are ready to get out and look at something different. It takes you someplace else. It is going to be beautiful” “The grounds will be beautiful, the trees will be blooming and it will be a lush and beautiful experience,” ShowHouse co-chair Cheryl Floyd said. “I’m so glad that we are able to have the house, because it is so different than what we have had in the past.”
Redevelopment of Iconic Property
In 2019, Hallmark Farms Cooperative, a group established by the Jefferson County Commission and the city of Warrior, purchased the farm with plans to redevelop. It has been reported the redevelopment
‘When you have this much interest in the house already, youTo: From: know that it will be a big turnout.’ Date: MOLLY BEE BLOETSCHER, SVC
may include offices, retail and event spaces. Warrior’s Mayor Johnny Ragland has high hopes there will be a plan set in place sometime this year. “We have several leads and tips we are working on right now, but hopefully after the ShowHouse, we will have a couple of announcements to make as far as redevelopment goes,” Ragland said. In a 2019 news release, District 5 Jefferson County Commissioner and Hallmark Farms Cooperative President Steve Ammons described
the plan for redevelopment as a respectable goal. “This development is going to honor the Hallmark Family by preserving the house and at the same
time provide 700 much-needed jobs and economic growth for this area,” Ammons said. In addition to the showcasing of interior design talent, food trucks
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Steel City Walk in Tubs “We offer a wide variety of tubs including: Hydro Spa soaking tubs; Wheelchair accessible; Combination water and/or air jets; Foot soaking only; Aerothermy; and tubs for two,” said Spencer Bissell. Steel City Walk in Tubs is owned by Richard Trueb, Spenceer Bissell and Cody Walker, form left, above. All of Steel City’s tubs come in durable and beautiful Acrylic. This allows for easy cleaning and longevity that fiberglass and other materials do not allow. “Our tubs fit any standard tub size, meaning if you have an existing tub our tubs will fit in that space,” Bissell said. “Our tubs also have out-swinging and in-swinging door options so the door won’t be hitting other fixtures and can be out of the way. “Our installer, Curren Builders Inc., has been in the remodeling business for over 25 years with
technicians that are experienced in bathroom replacements. Steel City partner Cody Walker also owns Curren Builders. “Our tubs are made by Ella’s Bubbles, a US company in business for over 20 years specializing in spas and other bathroom upgrade items. Unlike many other tub makers, Ella’s products only come in a standard Acrylic finish with no up-charge in price.” In addition to walk in tubs, Steel City’s services include tub and shower replacements, raised commodes, bidets, safety handrails, lavatory cabinets, and basins of all designs and upgraded electrical and hot water systems when required. “Our guarantee includes ‘we don’t leave until you are fully satisfied’ and a full year of hands-on support,” said Bissell. For more information call 205-789-3807.
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Selling your home and buying a new one is exciting! But then comes the work. The easiest way to tackle repairs and updates before selling is to do a walk-through inspection as though it’s the first time you’ve ever seen it. Make a list of all the things that need updated and changed as you go. Then prioritize the list. Realize that many needed repairs might seem small, but they still take time to get done. So you will need to set aside some days to make it work. “We have found that homeowners sometimes get a little overwhelmed with all that has to be done to put the house in selling condition,” said Rick Batson, one of the partners in TruBlue of Birmingham. “We can take some of the stress off by helping secure materials and do repairs,
installations, and clean up. ” Realtors know that the homes that look the best also fetch the best price. Batson, a retired architect, helps homeowners by performing walk-through inspections along with a technician to develop a list of priorities and an estimate. Mur Feldman, one of the other TruBlue partners, added “Inspectors are trained to look for problem areas in a residence. We can send technicians to fix some of those issues that are bound to come up and do it quickly so you don’t have to wait long to put the home on the market. Both home owners and realtors really appreciate how fast we can get someone there.” Fro more information about TruBlue call 205839-3818.
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Hoover Schools Names Its Teachers of the Year Girls Engaged in Math and Science organization in Hoover for the past six years. “Evans’ goal as a teacher is to share her love for learning with her students so they will become lifelong learners like herself,” the press release stated. Evans was a 2020 state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. McEwan is teaching ninth grade pre-AP biology and 11th and 12th grade International Baccalaureate biology classes. He has taught at Hoover High since 2006. McEwan’s principal praised his strategies in the classroom, saying he meets the academic needs of his students with “interesting and innovative labs and lessons.” McEwan was Alabama’s 2021 Outstanding Biology Teacher of the Year, according to the school system release. The release stated that McEwan wants to be remembered as a teacher who demanded a lot from students and fiercely supported them every step of the way. Hoover’s selection committee for Teacher of the Year praised Evans and McEwan for their experience, according the to release, and noted the high regard their peers have for them both. Other winners of Teacher of the Year awards at the campus level were:
Cherokee Bend Elementary School students collected and wrapped more than 100 gifts for local veterans, enough to give a gift to every inpatient at the Birmingham VA Hospital during the holiday.
Cherokee Bend Students Wrap for Warriors
Students from Cherokee Bend Elementary School understand America is the home of the free because of the brave. So, they chose to show their appreciation for veterans’ service during the holidays through their second Wrapping for America’s Warriors, in which they solicited donated goods for veterans and wrapped them as Christmas presents. Students, teachers and Hoover High biology teacher Paul school leaders participated in the McEwan has also been named program. Secondary Teacher of the Year. Dr. Sandy Ritchey, Cherokee Bend’s principal, embraced the serHoover City Schools on Dec. 15 vice project last year and is proud of announced the 2022 Teachers of the Elementary/Intermediate: the Chiefs’ commitment to spreading Year Awards. Brock’s Gap: Lisa Sparkman holiday cheer to veterans. Bluff Park Elementary STEAM Deer Valley: Samantha Thrasher The partnership began at teacher Geri Evans has been named Green Valley: Melissa Wilcox Brookwood Forest Elementary, New, Collectible 2022-2023 Elementary Teacher of the Greystone: Anna Tow another Mountain Brook School, four Year; and Hoover High biology teach- Gwin: Kelley FeaginDolls years ago. Antique er Paul McEwan has also been named Riverchase: Courtney Beam This year, the sixth grade students Secondary Teacher of the Year. Rocky Ridge: Jennifer Manley at Cherokee Bend asked students to 2820 Petticoat Lane In a press release from Hoover Shades Mountain: Elizabeth Lochamy bring in brand-new coats, toboggans, Mtn. Brook Village City Schools, Evans’ principal South Shades Crest: Karen Pirkle scarves, gloves and socks. After 870-5544 describes her as a “master educator Trace Crossings: Celeste Burton receiving the donations, the fifth Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pmgrade students wrapped each gift. with a fearless approach to education, as well as a mentor to other STEAM Middle: The students collected and wrapped teachers in the district.” R.F. Bumpus: Jasmine Jenkins more than 100 gifts for local veterEvans has been employed with Berry: Tory Hixon ans, enough to give a gift to every Hoover City Schools for 20 years and Simmons: Sarah Cox inpatient at the Birmingham VA at Bluff Park Elementary since 2016. Hospital during the holiday. Outside of the classroom, Evans has High: These gifts were presented to the Charles Robbins dedicated her time to Girls To: in STEMMarySpain Park: Joy Gonzalez Veterans Hospital Department of and has played an active role in the OverRC3: Andy Poker Voluntary Service Dec. 17. The chief From: The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph.,
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Dismukes Awarded ‘AWLA Promising New Teacher’ Date:
Sydney Dismukes, a Spanish teacher at Mountain Brook Junior High, recently was named the 2022 Alabama World Languages Association Promising New Teacher. She was nominated by colleague Michael Posey, who has participated in the Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms program. “I am so, so grateful to be part of a department and a school system that helps me become a better teacher for my students each day,” Dismukes said. She was recognized at the January Mountain Brook Board of Education
of voluntary service, Charmel Taylor; assistant chief of voluntary service, Barry Austin; and staff members Brandice Jones and Mark Drayton went to Cherokee Bend and shared with the fifth grade students how the gifts affected the veterans. Cherokee Bend Assistant Principal Carla Dudley and Charmel Taylor, who are sisters, said the project is special to them because it allows their work paths to cross. They said the Muhammed Ali quote, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth,” is a guiding principle for both
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of them personally and professionally.
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Mary Charles Robbins Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax May 2010
To: Mary Charles This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOU From: Over the Mountain JuneJournal 3, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or ch 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax Date: Nov 2018 Please make sure all informati
including address and phon
This is your ad proof for the OTMJ for the November 15, 2018issue. Plea possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax
initial and fax backincludin within Please make sure all Please information is correct,
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday your ad will run as is. We print the paper
Thank you for your prompt Thank you for your prompt
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the
This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the June 3, 2010 issue. Please fax approval changesrecently to 824-1246. Sydney or Dismukes was named the 2022 Alabama World
Please make sure all information is correct, Languages Association Promising New Teacher. including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. meeting.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of“If theanyone Friday before the press date, of a was ever deserving your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Promising New Teacher Award, it is
Thank you for yourMrs. prompt attention. Dismukes,” MBJH Principal Photo courtesy
Photos courtesy
Bluff Park Elementary STEAM teacher Geri Evans has been named Elementary Teacher of the Year.
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 25
SCHOOLS
Photo courtesy
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Donald Clayton said. “Her ability to impact students and her desire for educational growth is special. She is early in her career, but she is already a highly effective teacher. We’re fortunate to have her at MBJH.”
cookmuseum.org
26 • Thursday, January 27, 2022
Highly Decorated
SPORTS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
By Rubin E. Grant
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
Spain Park’s Audrey Rothman has been named the 2021 Gatorade Alabama Volleyball Player of the Year. She becomes the first Spain Park player to earn the honor and the third consecutive Over the Mountain volleyball player to be selected as the Gatorade state winner, joining Hoover’s Rya McKinnon (2020) and Mountain Brook’s Grace Carr (2019). “I’m obviously very excited to be this year’s recipient,” Rothman said. “To be recognized on this high of a level is the biggest compliment an athlete can receive. All of the previous winners are so talented and have really shaped the significance of this award. I am so very blessed to even be considered on the same level as these great players.” The 6-foot-4 senior outside hitter led the Jaguars to a 47-4 record and the 2021 Class 7A state championship, the first in school history. Rothman amassed 709 kills along with 247 digs, 71 blocks and 67 service aces. She considers the Gatorade honor a team award. “While I would say it was a big dream of mine since the beginning of my career, I don’t know if I would define it as a goal,” Rothman said. “Spain Park was so successful this year because the team always came first. Everyone in the program only had one goal in mind — to win state —and any other awards, while very honorable, were secondary. My teammates and coaches always gave full effort, making my job easy and allowing me to be successful. I owe it to them. “Being named Gatorade Player of the Year is
overwhelming in the best way possible. Every night I write down my prayers so I can go back and read them. God has not only fulfilled but surpassed any plans that I could’ve had. With this next chapter of my life about to unfold, I hope this award is symbolic of my journey this far and the path that lies ahead.” Rothman was the Over The Mountain Player of the Year, a first team Under Armour AllAmerican and a MaxPreps first team AllAmerican. She is headed to Florida State to play volleyball in college, both indoor and beach. “I am so proud of Audrey. She is an amazing young lady and has great family support,” FSU coach Chris Poole said. “When she verbally committed, Audrey was around 6 feet with amazing skills for her age. She has matured into a 6-foot-4 full rotation player and I believe will only get better.”
Effusive Praise
Spain Park volleyball coach Kellye Bowen is effusive in her praise of Rothman. “She is the most decorated player to come through Spain Park volleyball,” Bowen said. “When I first met Audrey, I knew she would be something special. She is not only a remarkable volleyball player, she is an even better person. “I can remember in Super Regionals we were warming up for the championship and she didn’t like the way the energy was and she stepped over to me and said, ‘I don’t like the way this is going.’ So she stepped up and addressed the team and the amount of respect the girls had for her – they agreed and came out on fire that match. On the best teams the best players take ownership in their team. “Audrey is the most dynamic player I’ve watched in Alabama volleyball,” Bowen continued. “She was consistent all season long and you knew when she walked onto the floor you had a high chance of winning. The look she had in her eyes from the start of this season was different than any other year. She made a promise to win a championship and she did it on a daily basis. “It has been an honor to watch her grow into the person and player she is today. She will be missed by Spain Park volleyball, but the standards that her and her fellow seniors set will remain. FSU is getting an amazing player and person. This isn’t the last time you will see her name in the papers.” Other coaches also took note of Rothman’s special talent. “Rothman is a complete volleyball player,” Thompson coach Judy Green said. “She’s accomplished in all the skills of the game and she can terminate the ball at a high level. Her length allows her to attack angles that no one else in the state could.” The Gatorade award recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the court. Rothman is also a finalist for the Gatorade national Player of the Year award. Rothman attends Church of the Highlands and is a devoted member of her church community. She also has volunteered on behalf of the Spain Park Ambassadors and the Spain Park Peer Helpers programs and maintained a weighted 4.28 grade-point average in the classroom. Rothman, left, led the Jaguars to a 47-4 record and the 2021 Class 7A state championship.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Rothman Adds Gatorade Award to Impressive List of Accomplishments
‘TOUGH DAY’
Rebels Fall in Wrestling Duals Final, Turn Attention to State Tournament By Rubin E. Grant The Vestavia Hills wrestling team is hoping history repeats itself. The Rebels lost to Thompson 33-25 in the 2021 AHSAA Class 7A Wrestling Duals Championship match, but they bounced back a few weeks later to win the Class 7A crown in the AHSAA State Wrestling Championships. Last Friday, the Rebels fell to the Warriors 39-19 in the 2022 Class 7A Wrestling Duals final at Bill Harris Arena at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Thompson won the first five matches as it defeated Vestavia Hills for the third consecutive year in the 7A Duals final to win its fourth consecutive title. The Warriors beat the Rebels 31-24 in the 2020 final. “It was a tough day,” Rebels coach Tee Adams said. “They have a great coach and great kids. They have done a great job over the years. “Nobody likes to lose, but we’ve still got state in four weeks.” The state tournament will be Feb. 17-19 in Huntsville. In 2021, the Rebels ended Thompson’s three-year reign as Class 7A champs by winning their state-record 16th overall title. Adams isn’t predicting a repeat performance, but the Rebels are ready for the battle. “Last year is last year, but I think we’ll be up for the challenge,” Adams said. “We got knocked down and now we’ve got to get back up. We now know what we have to do to get better. We’ve got to get better in all phases, on the top and bottom.” The Rebels had five winners in the Duals championship match — Andrew Sullivan (140), Grant Taylor (147), Harris Mitchell (162), John Edwards (184) and Mitch Taylor (287). Mitchell’s 8-7 decision against Thompson’s Will Garrett was the best individual match of the day. The 162-pound match went into triple overtime with Mitchell’s escape in the second extra period breaking the 7-all deadlock. Edwards made quick work of his opponent, pinning Thompson’s Nathan Black in 13 sec-
The Rebels had five winners in the Duals championship match — Andrew Sullivan (140), above, Grant Taylor (147), Harris Mitchell (162), top, John Edwards (184) and Mitch Taylor (287), below.
onds. Sullivan defeated Parker Edmondson by a 6-3 decision, and Grant Taylor defeated Josue Serrato by a 13-5 major decision. Mitch Taylor defeated William Cholewinski by a 4-1 decision. Earlier in the week, Vestavia Hills knocked off Hewitt-Trussville 31-21 in the semifinals, but the Rebels were denied their first Duals title since claiming the inaugural one in 2017. They have finished runners-up four times. Mountain Brook lost to Arab 31-27 in the Class 5A/6A Duals semifinals. Arab went on to claim the title, defeating McAdory 31-29 in the championship match.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SPARTANS
“We’ve got 11 girls on our roster, and we try to play everybody every game,” Price said. Freshman Libby Geisler and sophomores Bentley Brewer, left, and Margaret Pelekis are among the first players off the bench.
NEW HIRES From page 28
a coach at Vestavia Hills for three decades. “My dad was supportive either way,” Robert Evans said. “He told me about his own experience and said he had no regrets, and that I should finally consider it.” Evans decided it was the right time to finally become a head coach, comparing his decision to that of Brent Venables, a longtime college assistant coach at Kansas State, Oklahoma and Clemson who accepted his first head coaching job at Oklahoma in early December at the age of 50. “It’s a much smaller reference, but I think what I am doing is similar to Brent Venables,” Evans said. “He waited until the exact right time and right situation. This is the right situation for me. I am thrilled to represent Vestavia Hills.” Before going to Mountain Brook, Evans served eight years as a linebackers coach and defensive coordinator at Hoover. He also spent time at Oak Mountain, Spanish Fort and UAB. Evans spoke with Anderson shortly after being introduced as Vestavia Hills’ new coach. “We talked for about 10 minutes,” Evans said. “It was a great conversation. He was fully support-
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
From page 28
of rebounding and is a good on-ball defender. She’s also a good offensive player and has hit some big threes for us. “M.J. is our center She understands how to use her size, how to read the defense and make a move and how to get on the boards.” Morris joins Passink and Stearns in the Lady Spartans’ three-guard set. “Francie handles the ball and plays the point with Sarah,” Price said. “She looks to create. She does a good job of creating and giving her teammates opportunities to score.” Freshman Libby Geisler and sophomores Bentley Brewer and Margaret Pelekis are among the first players off the bench, depending on the situation. Geisler recently had a 28-point game against Calera and 20-point game against Briarwood. “She comes off the bench and gives us a spark with her energy,” Price said. “She’s got a sweet three and she does a great job of creating off the dribble. On defense, she puts herself in position to take a change.” Brewer recently returned after being sidelined because of a concussion. “We’re looking to see her play more minutes,” Price said. “She’s a good defender.” Pelekis, sophomores Marrison Kearse and Kate Cotton, and junior Mills Prater also are part of the rotation. “Margaret does a great job coming
Thursday, January 27, 2022 • 27
SCHOOLS
off the bench,” Price said. “Marrison is athletic and uses her size to her advantage and is a great on-ball defender. Kate is the same kind of player. She’s athletic and does a good
job of banging on the boards. Mills gives us the same thing as M.J.”
ive.” Vestavia Hills Superintendent Todd Freeman was pleased to have Evans return to the Rebels, describing him as “a man of character,” a committed educator and a brilliant football coach. “He will lead our football program into the future with the integrity that has been the foundation of our program,” Freeman said. “We are thrilled to have Robert and his wife, Anne, on the Vestavia Hills team.” Vestavia Hills City Schools Director of Athletics Myra Miles lauded Evans’ leadership and coaching capabilities. “To say I’m excited about Robert and Anne coming home to Vestavia Hills is an understatement,” Miles said. “He was a phenomenal studentathlete in high school, and today he continues to be a man of high character and a fantastic coach. This is a great day for Vestavia Hills football.” Evans believes he can return Vestavia Hills’ football program to the prominence it enjoyed when he played for the Rebels. The Rebels finished 4-6 in Anderson’s final season in 2020 and 4-6 in Calhoun’s only season in 2021. “We will look to provide the same core values to our players that have been synonymous with Vestavia Hills football for decades: toughness, discipline and humility,” Evans said.
“We will play a physical and innovative brand of football that this community can be proud of.”
Better Already
With its three wins in Area 9,
Waldrop Humbled
While Evans will be a head coach for the first time, Hoover will be the fourth head coaching stop for Waldrop. Waldrop coached Chelsea from 2006 to 2012, compiling a 41-34 record; James Clemens in Madison from 2013 to 2020, posting a 54-35 record; and Florence in 2021, leading the Falcons to a 5-6 record. His overall record is 100-75. Waldrop, a Hartselle High School and UAB graduate, is excited about taking over the Bucs’ program. “What a chance,” said Waldrop, who celebrated his 46th birthday on the day he was named Hoover’s new coach. “I am very humbled. I think there are quite a few places in this country where you can say high school football in Alabama and anyone who knows ball would say Hoover High School. Their commitment, level of excellence and the opportunity to play at the highest level with the resources they have would be appealing to any coach. “The opportunity to lead this program and be a part of it, my family and I, we are thrilled, humbled and grateful for this opportunity.” Waldrop will have a tough act to follow. Niblett left Hoover after guiding the Bucs to six state championships and a 171-26 record in 14 seasons. “The program’s tradition, standards
Mountain Brook already has surpassed their total of last season, when they won only two. Their only loss in area play this season was a 42-39 overtime setback at Chelsea. The Lady Spartans complete area play this week, hosting Chelsea on Tuesday and visiting Homewood on Friday. “We’re in a pretty tough area,” Price said. “On any given night anything can happen, so we always say next game up. We prepare to play one game at a time and not look too far ahead.” Price believes the Lady Spartans will have a chance to go deep in the postseason. “Our expectations are always going to be high,” she said. “I told the girls to set as many goals as they wanted and we’re going to do the things that make us Mountain Brook girls basketball. To see them this year learning and growing is exciting. “I have loved coaching them. They’re a great group on and off the court. They love each other, care for each other and want to see each other succeed. We have great chemistry. We hang our hats on three things: being gritty, selfless and competitive. Those are our fundamentals, and we want them to have fun.” and expectations are at a high level,” Waldrop said, while mentioning the names of former Hoover coaches Bob Finley and Rush Propst as well as Niblett.
Joy League Baseball Registration Opens Feb. 5
Registration for the 2022 Joy League Baseball season opens Feb. 5 and will continue each Saturday in February. Registration will be at Edgewood Elementary School in Homewood from 9 a.m. to noon. Those interested also may register online at www.joyleague. org. The league is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 12. The purpose of the league is to make sure every child can play the game, regardless of their talents. It was founded in 1958 by John J. Smith Sr., who wanted to give his son and other area boys a chance to play organized baseball. The league emphasizes sportsmanship and fun while learning to play the game. The cost for the season is $35 per player and includes each player’s jersey and cap. Practices will begin March 5. The season is scheduled to open April 9 and conclude June 18. Joy League is based in Homewood, but there is no residency requirement. The league played at Edgewood School for years, and this is its fourth year at Homewood Middle School. “We’re very grateful to (school Superintendent) Dr. Justin Hefner and everyone at Homewood City Schools for their support of the league,” league Commissioner Tim Meehan said. For more information, call Meehan at 205-913-3902, visit joyleague.org or email to joyleaguebaseball@gmail. com.
“I don’t think any coach ever strives to be at a place without great expectations. I’m going to do the very best I can to take what it is and make it a little bit better.”
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‘Tough Day’ Rebels fall in Wrestling Duals Final, turn attention to state tournament Page 26
SPORTS
Thursday, January 27, 2022 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Highly Decorated Rothman adds Gatorade Award to impressive list of accomplishments Page 26
New Hires
Evans’ Return to Vestavia Hills as Head Football Coach is the ‘Right Situation’; Waldrop ‘Thrilled’ with Opportunity to Take Over Bucs’ Program
For the second consecutive season, Mountain Book girls basketball doesn’t have any seniors. Freshman Francie Morris, above, plays point.
CULTURE CHANGE Price Has Mountain Brook Girls Basketball Team Rolling in Her Second Season
By Rubin E. Grant
ing hard. They are buying into the system and what we’re doing.”
S
ara Price didn’t have time to change the culture of Mountain Brook girls basketball during her first season as the Lady Spartans’ head coach. She wasn’t hired until the middle of May 2020, when athletic programs were shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, after coming from Pinson Valley, where she had been head coach for four years, Price spent most of the summer of 2020 just getting to know her players without the usual team camps and summer games, which are crucial to team bonding. Understandably, without any seniors on the roster, Price’s first season resulted in a 10-16 record. Flash forward to Price’s second season, after she has had a chance to change the culture, and the results are strikingly better. The Lady Spartans entered this week with a 19-5 record and a sure bet to reach the 20-win plateau for the first time since finishing 23-8 in 2014. They are 3-1 in Class 6A, Area 9 following routs of Homewood (41-36) and Briarwood (47-31) last week. “There’s a big difference between this year and last year,” said Price, who also got married in 2021. “When there’s a coaching change, it changes everything. Last year, they were getting to know me and how we wanted them to play. I didn’t have a summer and didn’t have any sum-
Young but Deep Team
The Lady Spartans entered this week with a 19-5 record and a sure bet to reach the 20-win plateau. Coach Sara Price, above.
mer games. “This year we had a summer and they put in the work. We continue to be young, but they understand what we want them to do. They talked about (what) they wanted to do, and we told them the route they need to take and the little things they have to do to get there. “I believe you have to have the right kind of culture to run things and have the players buying into it. The girls are working hard and play-
For the second consecutive season, Price doesn’t have any seniors. But what the Lady Spartans do have is talent and depth. “We’ve got 11 girls on our roster, and we try to play everybody every game,” Price said. “We’ve got a solid eight who we do play every game.” The Lady Spartans start sophomores Sarah Passink and Emma Stearns, juniors Emily Straughn and Mary Jane “M.J.” Lassiter, and freshman Francie Morris. Each brings a special set of skills to the court. “Sarah has the skills of a point guard,” Price said. “Last year her role was to distribute and handle the ball. She’s matured and she’s not only distributing but scoring this year. “Emma is our 3-point specialist. She does a good job of understanding and reading the defense, and that’s opened up her game more. She knows other teams are looking at her as a shooter, but she has done a good job of putting the ball on the floor and taking it to the basket or shooting her jump shot.” Straughn and the 6-foot Lassiter are post players who give the Lady Spartans a physical dimension. “Emily has a big impact on the team,” Price said. “She’s our go-getter. She does a good job
See SPARTANS, page 27
Right Timing
Evans discussed the pros and cons of the Rebels’ job with his dad, Bruce Evans, who was
See NEW HIRES, page 27
Photo courtesy
Robert Evans didn’t consider returning to his alma mater when legendary Vestavia Hills head football coach Buddy Anderson retired at the end of the 2020 season. Evans was content where he was, serving as Mountain Brook’s defensive coordinator. “I didn’t apply,” Evans said. “I wasn’t planning on going home. I was happy with what I was doing at Robert Evans played on Mountain Brook Vestavia’s 1998 state and I wasn’t planchampionship team and ning to leave.” graduated in 1999. But when Sean Calhoun resigned after one season at the helm of the Rebels to take over as head coach at Colquitt County, Georgia, Vestavia Hills reached out to Evans, who played on Anderson’s 1998 state championship team and graduated in 1999. Hoover will be the fourth “Once they head coaching stop for called, me and my Wade Waldrop. wife Anne talked it over,” Evans said. “It’s one of the best jobs in the state.” Evans, 40, then decided to return home, and on the morning of Jan. 13, the Vestavia Hills Board of Education approved Evans as the school’s new head football coach. Several hours later, the Hoover Board of Education introduced Wade Waldrop as the Bucs’ new head coach, replacing Josh Niblett, who left in December to become the head coach at Gainesville, Georgia. So, when the Rebels and Bucs renew their longtime and intense rivalry during the 2022 season, they will do so with new coaches. Evans said it wasn’t easy to leave Mountain Brook, where he had been the Spartans’ defensive coordinator since 2018. “Mountain Brook was willing to make it worth my time to stay, so it was a very hard decision,” Evans said.
Photo courtesy
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
By Rubin E. Grant
