10.1.20

OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2020

SOCIAL

Save the Alabama Pandemic Threatens to Close Birmingham’s Historical Theaters

SPORTS

SHOWTIME Mountain Brook resident Frank Falkenburg’s father, Frances, (below right with actor Mickey Rooney) managed the Alabama Theatre for 22 years. In our cover story, Frank shares his memories of growing up with inside access to the historical theater and the many famous people who performed there.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald. Inset: Mickey Rooney with Frances Falkenburg coutesy Alabama Theatre

SEE STORY PAGE 10

2 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

Inside

Murphy’s Law

T YOU’VE BEEN BOOED Magic Moments Dreams Up Halloween Trick That’s a Real Treat PAGE 6

‘YOU’RE A SURVIVOR’ BCRFA’s Amy Passey Shares Her Decade-Long Breast Cancer Journey PAGE 12

TURNING THE TBL Chefs Tyler and Jen Lyne Bring Serious Cooking Chops to Their Hoover Supper Club PAGE 22

HOMECOMING 2020 Homewood, Hoover and Spain Park Hold Homecoming Celebrations PAGE 24

ABOUT TOWN 4 PEOPLE 9 NEWS 10 LIFE 12

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

SOCIAL 18 FOOD 22 SCHOOLS 24 SPORTS 28

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.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

October 1, 2020 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Emily Williams, Sam Prickett Photographer: Jordan Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch, Solomon Crenshaw Jr. Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd

Tele Me About It

he day before my scheduled Tele-dentistry wouldn’t be nearly as semi-annual checkup, the nurse doable. Sure, you could open wide for called and asked if I would prethe phone camera, but if you ended up fer to see the doctor over the phone. I needing some work done, I seriously said, “Sure!” I mean, if you’re trying doubt you’d hear, “OK, Ms. Murphy, to avoid getting sick, it makes sense to now inject the Novocain to the right of avoid places where sick people conthe molar. You don’t have Novocain? gregate.

Oh well, we’ll have to punt. Now, After I said that, of course, my securely grasp the tooth with your ice tongs and just give it a good yank.” brain started downloading images of Tele-dermatology? OK with the what a telephone checkup might look “rub a little cream on it” issues, but like. I’d make sure I was dressed like not much else. Tele-podiatry? Again, a fully cognizant adult and stash Dave Sue Murphy you can remotely order orthotics, but if back in the bedroom so the interview you need a bunion removed, you’d be wouldn’t be held with a full-voice moving into tele-surgery, where barking chorus, but beyond that, I you’d have to enlist the help of a was lost. Would I be expected to trusted friend or family member supply real data? I had a scale and a ... maybe there’s (really trusted) since you would be blood pressure cuff and a functionsome kind of screen out cold … unless you didn’t have ing thermometer, but if my doctor wanted to look down my throat, the recognition lie detector any chloroform in the house, and then you’d have to substitute several best I could do would be to hold the app that can tell when shots of Jack Daniels (don’t forget phone against my teeth, but unlike the refrigerator, there isn’t a light in someone is cooking the to report them to your GP) and hope for the best. Your husband or wife my mouth that goes on when I open self-report books. or neighbor Sheila (the one who it (Wouldn’t that be cool, by the relies on her 4-year-old grandson to way?) so I doubted she would be program her phone) would hear, able to see anything at all. And just “Now make an incision an inch to for the record, there’s no way to test the left of the nail bed … no, her left, not yours … that. well, I suppose if all you have is your Girl Scout pocket Even if I stood on the scale in her remote presence, my doctor would still have to rely on me to give her the knife, it will have to do.”

Luckily, I didn’t need any of that. My GP (also correct numbers, although I suspect doctors are savvy stands for Great Person) appeared right on time, and enough to add five pounds to any self-given weight she was wonderful. She listened to my updates (all estimate and add a glass (or two) to the weekly alcohol truthfully given), called in refills for my ongoing precount, or maybe there’s some kind of screen recogniscriptions and declared me good for another six tion lie detector app that can tell when someone is months. cooking the self-report books. Or maybe doctors just We’ll have to see what happens when my next figure they’re only responsible for diagnosing the inforappointment rolls around. Maybe the new COVID-19 mation they’re given and any overages would be detervaccine will be up and running by then. I wonder if mined to be on the patient’s side of the meter in a malthey will be able to give it to you over the phone. practice court of law.

Over the Mountain Views

Revvin’ for Research The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness Month a little early this year, hosting its 12th annual Revvin’ 4 Research Charity Motorcycle Race on Sept.

27. Drivers dressed in pink took part in a police-escorted ride to raise funds for groundbreaking breast cancer research conducted at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as well as patient support. Left, Kevin Anderson and Amanda Rhodes get ready to ride.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Vol. 30, No. 5

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 2020 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 3

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4 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

A Basket of Goodies

holders can drive through the Market at Pepper Place, 28th Street and Second Avenue South in Birmingham, from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are $150 for a basket that serves two people.

Les Dames d’Escoffier International’s Birmingham chapter, an organization of more than 70 female leaders in food, beverage and hospitality arts, has scheduled its 2020 fundraiser for Oct. 18.

LDEI Birmingham usually hosts a big, in-person party called Southern Soirée, but this year’s fundraiser will look and feel different because of coronavirus precautions.

The chapter is hosting Champagne & Fried Chicken, a drive-thru event at which patrons can pick up a picnic dinner basket for two that will be filled with food, a bottle of champagne and some fun extras.

Optional craft cocktails created by two of Birmingham’s premiere cocktail makers – Rachael Roberts of Atomic Lounge and Laura Newman of Queens Park – can be purchased separately.

“This year’s fundraiser dinner again promises Southern fare with a French twist in a unique curbside experience,” said Dame Kathy G. Mezrano, president of the Birmingham LDEI chapter and chair of Champagne & Fried Chicken.

A virtual store of specialty items

will include art, books, a three-day juice cleanse from Farm Bowl + Juice Co., virtual cooking classes, wine tastings, and dame-led experiences similar to those that have been part of the fundraiser’s silent auctions in previous years.

A new feature this year is a raffle. Two packages each will include 12 $100 gift cards from restaurants around the city, including OvenBird, Satterfield’s, El ZunZún, Gianmarco’s, The Bright Star, Hot and Hot Fish Club and other restaurants. Each ticket is $25.

Event tickets, raffle tickets, specialty items and cocktail add-ons are available for purchase online at ldeibirmingham.org.

Additionally, the first 100 cars in line to pick up their baskets will be treated to an extra: a bag of Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn, which specializes in small-batch, artisan-style sweet and salty kettle popped corn.

The company’s owner, Tanesha Sims-Summers, received LDEI Birmingham’s Entrepreneur Award two years ago.

One important thing remains the same – net proceeds will support LDEI’s work to lift up Alabama women of all ages. Since the group

Photo courtesy Les Dames d’Escoffier

Pick Up a Picnic at LDEI Birmingham’s Oct. 18 Fundraiser

By Donna Cornelius

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

The menu includes:

• Southern fried chicken.

• New potato salad with shallot vinaigrette and fresh herbs, prepared by Dame Kathy G. Mezrano of Kathy G Kathy G. Mezrano is president of LDEI’s & Co. Birmingham chapter and chair of the organization’s • Kale salad with Champagne & Fried Chicken fundraiser.

Snow’s Bend organic fall vegetables and dried fruits, prepared by started its scholarship and grant program four years ago, nearly $60,000 Dame Ashley McMakin of Ashley Mac’s using produce from Dame has been awarded to women across Margaret Ann Snow of Snow’s Bend the state pursuing a wide variety of Farm and Southern Organics. food-related and culinary-related • Corn muffins, prepared by Dame careers.

Brittany Cheatham, pastry chef of Those women include students Satterfield’s. attending four-year universities or • Biscuits, prepared by Dame community colleges, high school Jennifer Yarbrough of Crestline Bagel students involved in the ProStart Co. program, and female entrepreneurs • Fresh pear and cheese. who are building their businesses.

• French sable cookies, prepared Money also is awarded to local nonby Dame Becky Satterfield of profits making a difference in the Satterfield’s and El ZunZún. community.

• Vegetarian baskets are available.

For the Oct. 18 event, ticket-

OCT 1 - OCT 15 Through Oct. 4 Cahaba River Fry Down

What: This year’s event is free and going viral. Teams can enter their favorite fish and side dish recipes and compete by demonstrating via video. Enjoy featured performers, fishing tips and adventure videos.

Receive a complimentary Fry-Down Cookbook with a donation. Website: cahabariversociety.org

Through Oct. 31 Pumpkin and Mum Sale

What: Sims Gardens presents a fall fundraiser featuring pumpkins of all kinds, mums of many colors, pumpkins, crafts, a scarecrow trail and tricks and treats. Questions and preorders, simsgarden@homewoodal. net. When: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Where: 913 Irving Road, Homewood Website: “Pumpkin and Mum Sale” Facebook page

Through Nov. 21 Fall into Science

What: Join McWane Science Center for holiday celebrations and special deals including the Corny Maze, Frankenstein’s Workshop, An Evening at Hogwarts, Spooky Science and more. When: Check the website for times. Where: McWane Science Center Website: mcwane.org

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thurs., Oct. 1 English Village Fall Fling

What: Join the merchants of English Village for a night of shopping and more. Promotions will run through the weekend. When: 4-6 p.m.

Where: “Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce” Facebook page

Stadium Trace Stroll

What: Enjoy specials on food and beverages and indulge in retail discounts while supporting the Hoover Parks and Recreation Foundation.

Included will be give-aways, door prizes and more. When: 4-8 p.m.

Where: Stadium Trace Village Website: “Stadium Trace Stroll” Facebook page

Oct. 1-29 Behind the Masks Art Show

What: Leading up to the 18th Dia de los Muertos Festival at Pepper Place Nov.1-7, Bare Hands Inc. presents a showing of the Day of the Dead Festival masks made by local artists. Masks will be for sale and proceeds benefit the festival. Where: Rojo Website: “Dia de los Muertos Alabama” Facebook page

Oct. 1-31 Virtual Pink Up the Pace

What: Join the Junior Board of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama in this month-long event featuring three running options: a time

ABOUT TOWN challenge; a distance challenge; and a 1-mile run, bike and scooter race for kids. Website: bcrfa.org

Step Up for Down Syndrome

What: This year’s virtual event features friendly competitions between local communities in our area and across the state. Register today to stay informed of all the events being hosted all month long.

Deadline for ordering t-shirts is Oct. 4.

Website: downsyndromealabama.org

Oct. 2-9 Tails Off the Trails

What: The Birmingham Zoo’s Junior Board presents a “wildly virtual” online auction in support of the Emergency Animal Fund. Bid at tails2020. givesmart.com until 8 p.m. on Oct. 9.

Website: birminghamzoo.com

Sat., Oct. 3 Junk in Your Trunk Community Yard Sale

What: Free and open to the public, Camp Fletcher’s semi-annual yard sale features eager sellers willing to part with all kinds of unique items.

When: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Camp Fletcher Website: campfire-al.org

Sun., Oct. 4 Birmingham Blooms

What: Birmingham Botanical Gardens hosts a private sunset picnic supper in appreciation of its individual

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 5

and corporate sponsors featuring special guests James Farmer and Mark D. Sikes signing copies of their latest books. When: 5-7 p.m.; book signings, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Where: Dunn Formal Rose Garden and Hill Garden Website: bbgardens.org

Cahabaque

What: Cahaba Brewing Company and Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama hosts a barbecue cookoff with proceeds benefiting BCRFA. When: 1-5 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Company Website: “8th Annual CahabaQue” Facebook page

Thurs., Oct. 8 Tacos for Trinity

What: Support Trinity Counseling with an all-virtual event including an online silent auction and inspiring speakers. Proceeds benefit Trinity and its mission to provide muchneeded mental health services to the community. When: Check the website for updates.Website: trinitycounselingbham.org

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Taste of Hoover

What: Enjoy an autumn evening strolling through the gardens and sampling delicious dishes from some of Hoover’s best restaurants, caterers and more. Taste international wines and local beers while listening to live entertainment. When: 5-8 p.m.

Where: Aldridge Gardens Website: aldridgegardens.com

ABOUT TOWN continued on page 7

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Look Forward.

6/5/20 9:20 AM

6 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

ABOUT TOWN

You’ve Been Booed

By Emily Williams When life hands Magic Moments a pandemic, it makes lemonade.

As the only wish-granting organization dedicated solely to children in Alabama, the need for magic moments has not lessened in the times of COVID-19.

“We have not missed a beat,” she said. “We have gotten very creative.”

The latest creation is a new annual fall fundraiser “You’ve Been Booed.”

Inspired by a similar fundraiser in Atlanta, Executive Director Sandy Naramore, Director of Development Robin Kidd and the crew have pulled together the fundraiser in a matter of months.

Folks can buy signs online through Oct. 16 at magicmoments.org/boo/ to be delivered to their homes. They, in turn, take the sign and a little Halloween treat or bag of candy and surprise their neighbors or friends with it.

“It’s like ring-and-run,” Naramore said. “You go put the sign in their yard, ring the doorbell and then run or hide behind a tree, because you want to see their expression.”

In return, Naramore hopes that the people who have been booed will

“play it forward” and buy signs to put in other peoples’ yards.

“I think it is something that, year after year, you will see really expand,” she said. “This year we are only doing it in the Over the Mountain area. It’s only because of the time factor.”

The signs have sold so well that Naramore had to go back and order 100 more.

“Next year, we will focus on the Mobile-area, then Montgomery and eventually we’ll go statewide,” she said.

Naramore said the group’s goal this year is to make moments for 100 children, “so I’ve got to make sure we have the money for them.”

Applications for Magic Moments trickled in from April to about July.

“That is a direct reflection of the hospital staff working from home,” Naramore said. “Once the hospital brought their staff back in, the applications started rolling back in.”

There’s Always Another Way

Magic moment reveals are often a crowded affair, with kids surprised at the Birmingham Zoo or at a local school in front of an assembly.

Photo courtesy Courtney Carson

Magic Moments Dreams Up Halloween Trick That’s a Real Treat

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

vouchers, they gave them refillable drink cups,” Naramore said. “Because it was so early in the pandemic, the park was basically empty except for us, so it was safe, and our families had the best time.”

One big sacrifice to COVID-19 has been the annual Beyond the Moment event, at which the staff invites their families to spend a weekend at Children’s Harbor at Lake Martin.

“We pushed it to Halloween and now I’ve had to make that hard decision that we just can’t take 200 people to the lake,” she said.

Instead, on Halloween Day, they will host a virtual camp in their Halloween costumes with live video streams of activities, including carving pumpkins and making cookies.

Similarly, the organization’s annual Breakfast with Santa in Birmingham and Mobile will be Promoting Magic Moments new fall fundraiser “You’ve Been Booed!” are going virtual.

Central Alabama Regional Director Courtney Carson and her daughter Ellis.

In terms of fundraising, early fall typically is packed with planning and “The most fun reveals that we Naramore said. “They had the car all events, including two clay shoots and have been doing recently are drivepacked and ready to go.” several football-related kick-off by’s,” Naramore said.

In June, the team was able to orga- events hosted by junior boards in A recent reveal sponsored by nize a trip to OWA, a theme park in Birmingham and in Montgomery.

Lightfoot, Franklin & White was parFoley, for families in the program.

“None of those are really happenticularly memorable for Naramore.

“We had families come from all ing,” Naramore said. “Our clay shoots The recipient rode in a car downtown over the state, because we were all so even got pushed to the spring.” and passed the firm’s lawyers and anxious to get to be together,” She said she hopes the group can get back to its normal schedule next staff lined up on the sidewalk for a Naramore said. block.

The OWA staff also went the extra fall.

• In-Home Care, Including Bathing, Grooming, But Housekeeping, in the meantime, the organiza“They were holding up these promile for the kids and their parents. tion will host a reimagined BHM fessional signs that Preparation, said … ‘You’re “They not only opened the doors Meal Incontinence Care, Medication Reminders 26.2, its annual marathon. Originally going to the beach,’ and the last one to us, they gave us free admission, Transportation See BOOED, page 7 said, ‘and and you’re leaving now,’” they gave every person with us lunch

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

JHM Rescue Run 5K

What: Enjoy a run culminating in a block party including live music, complimentary food, beverages, a kid’s zone, appearances by Big Al, Aubie and more. A portion of the proceeds go to the Jimmie Hale Mission. When: 6:30 a.m. registration; 8 a.m. run Where: 29th Ave. South, near Dave’s Pizza, Homewood Website: “Jimmie Hale Mission Rescue Run 5K” Facebook page

Running for the Bulls 5K, Fun Run What: Bama Bully Rescue and Red Mountain Park hosts a family friendly event to raise money for Bama Bully Rescue and its mission to rescue bully breeds from shelters, promote spay/ neuter and educate the public about the true nature of bully breed dogs.

When: 7:30-11 a.m. Where: Red Mountain Park Website: “Running for the Bulls 5K & Fun Run” Facebook page

BOOED From page 6

it had been scheduled for April 19, but now it will be Oct. 4.

“It will be run 100% through the city of Homewood,” Naramore said.

“Instead of having a full marathon, we’re only doing a half marathon and we’re doing a 5K.

Mon., Oct. 12 C. Molton Williams Memorial Swing for Kids Golf Tournament

What: Enjoy lunch, giveaways and a competitive tournament followed by a social. Proceeds benefit Cornerstone Schools of Alabama. When: 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Where: Old Overton Club Website: csalabama.org

Oct. 14-25 Shop Save & Share 2020

What: Junior League of Birmingham presents a 12-day event allowing patrons to receive 20% off at over 250 participating businesses with the purchase of a $40 card. All proceeds benefit the lives of Birmingham women and children. Website: shopsaveandshare.net

cancer by honoring and remembering those touched by cancer by rallying virtually as a community in support of LLS’s mission of funding research to find a cure for blood cancers.

Website: lightthenight.org

Oct. 15-25 The Fantasticks

What: Virginia Samford Theatre presents a gem of the American musical theatre. When: ThursdaysSaturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Where: VST Mainstage Website: virginiasamfordtheatre.org

Oct. 16-18 “At Home”

What: Bring light to the darkness of

What: Alabama Ballet will open its season with an in-studio performance which will be live-streamed as well as performed outdoors at Avondale Brewery. When: Oct. 16 and 17, live stream from Alabama Ballet; Live performance at Avondale Brewery, 2:30 p.m. Website: alabamaballet.org

“The precautions and protocols that are in place are unbelievable,” Naramore said.

The runners will take off in smaller groups and will be given masks that they can choose to wear while running. They also will be given a new mask at the finish line.

There won’t be an after party, but Jim ’N Nicks will be providing a sack lunch.

“The runners always get a mimosa,” Naramore said. “They will have a Tito’s Vodka miniature and a can of lemonade and a sack lunch. We don’t touch anything.”

Coca-Cola has even provided Disani water bottles for the water stations so runners can simply pick up a bottle on their own.

The race will start and finish in the Macy’s parking lot at Brookwood

Thurs., Oct. 15 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Light the Night

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Sat., Oct. 10

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 7

ABOUT TOWN

Enjoying last year’s Trick or Trot, from left, Rodrigo and Alejandra Velasco, Jeff Knox, Myrna Rodriguez, Abby Knowling and John Reagan.

TRICK OR TROT 5K | SAT., OCT. 17

What: Kid One Transport hosts a 5K and costume contest to benefit its mission to transport children and expectant mothers to necessary health care services. When: 7 a.m. Costume Contest; 8 a.m. 5K start Where: Back Forty Brewing Website: “Trick or Trot 5K” Facebook page or kidone.org

Village and there will be no spectators.

There will be some cheering.

There will be about 10 Magic Moments children positioned at mile markers along the route to root for the runners.

The organization is accommodating this year’s circumstances in other ways, too. H&M Golf Cart Sales in Fairhope donated a “street legal” golf

cart. And so the thought was, when life gives you a golf cart, create the first annual Golf Cart Drawdown.

Only 200 raffle tickets will be sold for $100 each, and a drawing will take place virtually on Oct. 21.

Tickets can be purchased on the donation page, at magicmoments.org/ volunteer/give; write in the memo box that the donation is for a Golf Cart Drawdown ticket.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

Cooking with Chris For the first time in its 14-year history, the UAB School of Nursing’s annual No-Show Ball is asking people to show up – but only on their computer screens.

The annual fundraising event is put on by the school’s junior board of visitors, and all proceeds benefit the board’s endowed nursing scholarship. Previous events also have supported the expansion of the nursing school’s simulation space, where students receive hands-on experience through the use of lifelike manikins and simulated care scenarios.

In years past, the No-Show Ball has included meal totes delivered straight to participants’ doors. But to promote social distancing and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is moving online for 2020.

“The No-Show Ball is such a popular event every year because it allows individuals to support nursing education and scholarships and enjoy a tasty dinner, all without leaving the comfort of their homes,” said Jamie Dabal, junior board of visitors chairwoman. “We wanted to carry that spirit into 2020 with a fun twist.

This year, we have partnered with chef Chris Hastings, who created a special menu and will host a live cooking demonstration and Q&A

session for No-Show supporters.”

Hastings is the chef and co-owner of Birmingham’s OvenBird and the award-winning Hot and Hot Fish Club, alongside his wife, Idie Hastings. As a two-time finalist for the James Beard Award and 2012 recipient of the Best Chef in the South award, Hastings is nationally recognized for his innovative menus and passion for cooking.

As part of the 14th annual No-Show Ball, Hastings has created a custom menu and recommended wine pairings. There are two ticket options available this year, and both options include a one-hour, virtual cooking class with Hastings, stepby-step coaching, a printable recipe and recording of the cooking class to recreate the meal over and over again.

With the $100 ticket option, No-Show Ball supporters will also receive a shopping list for Hastings’ menu, as well as recommended wine pairings.

The $150 option will include a fresh ingredient kit that serves four and includes the main meal ingredients, salad, dessert and wine.

Individuals will be able to pick up their fresh ingredients box at Hot and Hot Fish Club on Nov. 15.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Show Up for the No-Show Ball and Make a Meal with James Beard Award Winner

Chef Chris Hastings, above with wife Idie, has created a special menu and will host a live cooking demonstration and Q&A session for No-Show supporters. Below, Jamie Dabal, is this year junior board of visitors chairwoman.

Photo courtesy Children’s of Alabama

8 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

The live event will be held that day starting at 5 p.m., at which time Hastings will walk participants

through a cooking demonstration and answer questions.

“COVID-19 has encouraged us all to come together in new and innovative ways, and it has opened new opportunities for community as well,” Hastings said. “Whether people choose to cook along or just kick back and enjoy a glass of wine, I’m excited to be able to partner with the UAB School of Nursing to provide a great meal and a fun night and to support nursing education in the process.”

Tickets for the No Show Ball are available to order online at uab.edu/ noshowball.

—Virginia Martin

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 9

PEOPLE

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Family members help Gene Cushman celebrate 100 years.

From left, Bonnie Black, Cushman, Jane Wade, Anne Moon and Taylor Hutto.

Gene and Eleanor Cushman at Gene’s 100th birthday party last week.

Mountain Brook Celebrates Resident Gene Cushman’s 100th Birthday Air Force for 27 years. He moved to Birmingham in 1968 to marry his wife, Eleanor, and worked in the insurance business until he retired at 80.

Members of the Mountain Brook police and fire departments participated in Cushman’s centennial, as well as representatives of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce.

SVC Installs 2020-21 Officers

Robert Raiford, with Nicole Williams serving as Alabama Symphony Orchestra liaison.

Those in attendance included Pam Wood, Mary Jean Myers, Lynne Meeks, Carolyn Orchid, Molly Bee Bloetscher, Betsy Cooper, Pete Verdu, Linda Griggs, Roberta Atchinson, Diane Ray, Debbie Reid, Liz Warren, Mimi Jackson and Susan Atwood.

Members of the Symphony Volunteer Council met via Zoom recently to install its newest officers.

The process was a first for the organization, and the members look forward to a time when it is safe to resume normal functions.

The installation was performed by

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Mountain Brook resident Gene Cushman celebrated his 100th birthday on Sept. 24 playing nine holes of golf with his granddaughter at The Country Club of Birmingham.

That afternoon, the city of Mountain Brook organized a drive-by parade at his home to celebrate.

After growing up on multiple Army posts, Cushman served in the U.S.

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NEWS

10 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Save the Alabama Pandemic Threatens to Close Birmingham’s Historical Theaters

By Emily Williams

W

Frances Falkenburg, above left, with legendary actor John Barrymore in the lobby of the Alabama Theatre.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald. Inset: John Barrymore with Frances Falkenburg coutesy Alabama Theatre. Frank Falkenburg family photo

hen picturing the landmarks that are most recognizably “Birmingham,” places such as Vulcan, Sloss Furnaces or even recent additions such as the Magic City sign on the Rotary Trail come to mind.

A highlight of all things Birmingham is the Alabama Theatre, founded in 1927, lost in the decline of downtown and the arrival of multiplexes, and resurrected in 1998.

The venue’s resilient history is once again at risk due to the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

“Typically, the fall is our busiest time of year for concerts, and right now it doesn’t look like we will have any concerts for the rest of the year,” said venue manager Cindy Mullins.

“By the end of 2020, we will have lost $2.5 million in revenue.”

Mountain Brook resident Frank Falkenburg has personally seen the rise, fall and resurgence of the Alabama Theatre and its sister venue, The Lyric.

He spent much of his childhood seated in the Alabama Theatre’s mezzanine, watching the movies shown on its stage perhaps dozens of times each as he visited his father, Frances Falkenburg, who managed the theater for 22 years.

His father previously worked as the assistant manager for Paramount Theaters, overseeing the Olympic theater in Miami. He was brought to Birmingham to serve as manager at the Alabama Theatre in 1937.

Falkenburg said he grew up in the theater.

“During the (days of World War II), I remember various artists coming to town, raising money for war bonds,” Falkenburg said.

The most famous was Mickey Rooney, who became one of his father’s close friends.

“Daddy introduced (Rooney) to one of the candy counter girls and he married her,” Falkenburg said.

Francis was Rooney’s best man when he wed his second wife, B.J. Baker, at the Southeastern Bible College, then located on Niazuma Avenue.

A former Miss Alabama 1944 and fourth runner up in the Miss America pageant, Baker went on to become a successful singer and songwriter – working with the likes of Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and Sam Cooke.

“When I look back at all of the stars of those days, I remember Bob Hope came in quite often also raising

through, and I knew they were somebody back then but didn’t realize until after the fact how famous they were,” he said.

One of his father’s great successes as manager of the venue was hiring Stanleigh Malotte to play the theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ. Malotte drew wide acclaim beginning with his first performance, on May 27, 1937, playing along to “A Star is Born,” starring Fredrick March and Janet Gaynor.

What Falkenburg recalls most clearly is Malotte’s introductions for the Mickey Mouse Club.

“That was the big deal,” Falkenburg said. “On Saturdays, folks would drop their kids off and we spent the morning in there watching Frank Falkenburg has personally seen the rise, fall and resurgence of the Alabama Theatre and its sister venue, The Lyric.

money for the war bonds,” Falkenburg said. “He has a great fondness for Birmingham and he and my father were very friendly.” Hope also became close friends with Birmingham’s Charley Boswell, a National Blind Golf champion who earned 16 national titles as well as 11 international ones.

The theater also served as the venue for the annual Miss Alabama pageant, and Falkenburg’s parents had

the duty to chaperone the winner to the Miss America pageant in Atlantic City.

“They saw Yolanda Betbeze win the (1951) Miss America title,” he said. “She was the most famous one back in her day.” A Mobile native, Yolanda Betbeze Fox gained acclaim as an opera singer and later married former Universal Pictures President Matthew Fox. “We had a lot of names that came

cartoons and some live performances as well.” While the kids were occupied, parents would do some shopping, perhaps at Loveman’s Department Store, which was next door to the Alabama.

Falkenburg was one of the popular kids in school, most likely because of his friendly disposition, but having a father as manager of the hottest venue in town surely didn’t hurt.

“I used to take all of my friends for free to the theater,” he said. “My father also brought in Broadway plays back in the ‘50s like ‘South Pacific,’ ‘Guys and Dolls’ and ‘Oklahoma’ to

the Temple Center, where the Harbert Center is today, and I took my friends to all of those shows, too.”

In their heyday, the Alabama and Lyric theaters were popular stops along the electric streetcar lines in downtown Birmingham.

“There were dozens of theaters downtown at the time,” he said. “Of course, the Alabama was the most well-known and largest.” The Lyric mostly showcased B movies, but he recalled walking over there with his dad to see “Frankenstein” for the first time.

Eventually the era of grand theaters ended, slowly closing not just the Alabama but the entire theater industry downtown.

“I got involved in the ‘90s when they initially started trying to revive it,” Falkenburg said. “There are very few theaters that were built in its era that have survived.”

Constant Maintenance

While the venue halls are devoid of guests, maintenance for the historic buildings is a constant.

“Even though we are closed, we still have to run the air conditioning to make sure that the building doesn’t get too hot or cold,” Mullins said. “We have to keep the humidity under control to make sure that that paint won’t peel off the walls.”

Staff members also conduct walk throughs daily to check for leaks and electrical issues.

“The easiest way to find something wrong is to have an event, and since the buildings are empty, we don’t have that luxury,” Mullins said.

“Pest control is another big concern. A theater full of people keeps pests from making themselves at home in the building, but since we have been closed, we have had to expand our pest control plan.”

While current guidelines limit venues to 50% capacity, the theaters also have to accommodate six-foot distances between parties. Mullins said this places the actual capacity limit at the Alabama at 25% to 30%.

“We decided to try doing a socially distanced movie on Sept. 11 as our first public event since the closure,” she said. “Normally we have 2,000 tickets available for our movies. This time we had 630 tickets available.”

It was the first event hosted at the Alabama Theatre since March. The Lyric has hosted only one small, private corporate event during the pandemic.

New practices for movie viewings include assigned seating in pods of two See ALABAMA, page 11

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal file photo

NEWS

A NEW CHAPTER IN THE PINK HOUSE STORY Homewood’s historic Pink House has been sold by its saviors Scott and Holley Ellis and her family, who purchased the home in 2019 from a previous owner who intended to demolish the house and develop the land. The home was recently sold to Homewood residents Clayton and Rachel Mobley, first reported by the Birmingham Business Journal, with the intent to preserve it as a family residence. Clayton Mobley is the founder and CEO of Green Rock, a real estate development company. The home, located at 214 Edgewood Boulevard, was built in 1921 by Georges and Eleanor Bridges and is where they entertained the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Grand Duchess Marie Pavlovna of Russia and more.

ALABAMA From page 10

or four people, temperature checks and hand sanitizing before entering the building, and mask requirements while in the building.

Tickets are scanned, so they are touch-free, sanitizing stations are spread throughout the theater and hightouch areas are cleaned every 30 minutes. Plexiglass shields also have been set up at every bar station.

While the first movie event sold out, the theater only broke even.

According to Mullins, concerts and the larger events hosted at the venue typically need to sell 90% of tickets for

the theater to turn a profit.

“Being able to open at a lowered capacity isn’t going to be what helps us survive. We have to fundraise, too,” Mullins said. “We have a few maintenance projects we need to complete, but we will be showing more movies soon and we are working on plans for our annual Holiday Film Series.”

Right now, the biggest weight is the projected $2.5 million year-end loss hanging overhead.

To relieve some of the pressure, a GoFundMe campaign has been started with a goal of raising $500,000.

“Right now, we have raised about $140,000, so we still have a long way to go,” Mullins said. “A donation of any size is appreciated. We are a non-

profit organization, so any donation is tax deductible.”

Donations can be made at alabamatheatre.com. Even if you can’t donate, Mullins suggests helping out by spreading the word to family and friends.

“We are also hopeful that Congress will pass a relief package that will help independently owned venues like us,” she said. “You can go to saveourstages. com a­nd it will help you send a letter to your specific representatives. It takes 30 seconds to do, and you can use their template or write your own letter.

“The $500,000 GoFundMe campaign is really just one piece of the puzzle for our survival. We really need an aid package as well.”

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 11

Samford Ranked Second in the Nation for Student Engagement by The Wall Street Journal Samford University students were ranked second nationally on the list of most engaged college students, according to the 2021 college rankings recently published by The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education.

The university ranked third last year in the same category.

Samford also ranked 183rd overall in the Times Higher Education Student Engagement Survey, which measures institutions’ student engagement, student outcomes and learning environments. It ranked first in the state. Nearly 800 universities were assessed in the study.

“Rankings are just one measure of a university’s effectiveness and reputation, but it is encouraging to see the praiseworthy work of our faculty and staff recognized by The Wall Street Journal,” said Samford President Andrew Westmoreland. “At Samford we know that success after graduation means not only advancing professional goals, but also pursuing personal growth in purpose and faith. Nurturing student development is important in accomplishing this mission.”

According to The Wall Street Journal, the Student Engagement category assesses how prepared students feel to use their education in the real world, examining “how engaged students feel they are with their professors, their peers

and their education.” Student engagement is deemed to be central to exceptional teaching quality and reflects “how well a university manages to inform,

‘Rankings are just one measure of a university’s effectiveness and reputation, but it is encouraging to see the praiseworthy work of our faculty and staff recognized by The Wall Street Journal.’

inspire and challenge students,” the newspaper said in its story.

Samford’s offerings to students include 166 student organizations, global engagement in more than 19 countries and more than 180 courses that incorporate community service. In addition to providing a core curriculum that includes a foundation in the liberal arts, university officials noted that 97% of undergraduate alumni move on to become employed or enrolled in further study within six months of graduation.

—Emily Williams

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LIFE

12 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HEALTH SPECIAL SECTION

‘You’re a Survivor’ BCRFA’s Amy Passey Shares Her Decade-Long Breast Cancer Journey

By Emily Williams

this for me,” Passey said. “Somebody did this for my mom way back in the day so that I could have a normal life while somebody else was sitting with my mom when she was going through chemo. So, I feel like I am paying back and paying forward.”

Over the years, she has found that cancer truly knows no bounds, finding people from all walks of life present whether in a support group or at a fundraising event.

“There are so many people who want to find a cure, not because it’s going to help someone they know right now who has breast cancer, but it’s going to help somebody down the road,” Passey said. And it is the future that drives her continued support for cancer research.

Cheerleaders Create Posters to Cheer on O’Neal Cancer Center Patients ....PAGE 17

Photo courtesy Amy Passey

L

ater this fall, Amy Passey will celebrate her 11th year as a breast cancer survivor, counting back from the day she received her diagnosis in 2009.

“I always tell the people I mentor that you become a survivor the day you are diagnosed,” Passey said. “Because if you don’t fall over of a heart attack the day you are diagnosed, you’re a survivor.”

The more than 10 years since have changed her life, she believes, for the better.

“It’s an incredible journey … I remember saying to my husband when I first finished treatment, ‘You know what, this might be the best thing that ever happened to me,’” Passey said. “And he went, ‘I’m not there yet.’”

Breast cancer is not only a bullet point in her life but a constant theme that has driven her past and continues to shape her vision for the future.

“My mother died at 41 of breast cancer,” Passey said. “She was diagnosed at 33. I was 14 and am one of four daughters.”

Passey’s youngest sister was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2009, shortly before her own diagnosis, and passed away several years later.

Despite the bad, Passey has continued to see the good that has come out of her relationship with breast cancer. It’s not something she has in common with others, she said, even her sister.

“Some people see breast cancer as a fight, and some people view it as a journey,” she said. “I chose to view it as a journey and I still feel like it’s a journey.

“It doesn’t end when you finish treatment. There are still side effects, there’s still medicine I have to take, but, as I say all the time, they are very mild because I’m here. My baby sister wasn’t that lucky.”

When Passey’s sister found out she had breast cancer, all four siblings began more seriously monitoring their own risk.

“We asked a genetic counselor what we needed to do to be proactive and she said you need to alter-

Advocating for Awareness

Amy Passey

nate a mammogram with an ultrasound every six months,” Passey said. “I just routinely scheduled it and they caught mine.”

Before her cancer journey, Passey was a fulltime teacher with a vision for her future. When she quit working, she would devote her time to her passions – Camp Winnataska and her church, to name just two.

“Of course, now my priorities have changed because breast cancer is one of the main things I want to devote my time to,” she said.

For about the past eight years, Passey has been involved in some way with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama working to further research efforts.

She has worked as a volunteer, served on the board of directors and, most recently, worked parttime for the organization as an office assistant.

Unofficially, she mentors other women on their cancer journey.

It’s often someone who is a neighbor of a friend or another acquaintance who later becomes a great friend.

“What I always tell them is that somebody did

Passey celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness month in a similar fashion each year. She promotes awareness as far as she can reach, sharing Breast Cancer Research Foundation events and sending out text messages to her closest friends to remind them to make sure they get their annual mammograms.

Promoting breast cancer screenings such as mammograms and self-checks is huge for Passey.

“It’s really huge to me because my baby sister felt the lump, went to the doctor … and he told her because she had just finished nursing three babies back-to-back, that it was probably nothing.”

When her sister was finally diagnosed, the lump was at 8 centimeters and the diagnosis, in turn, was far more severe than it might have been earlier.

“I think women so often let their health slide, especially when they have young kids,” she said.

“My mom did the same thing. She felt the lump in the spring and didn’t go to the doctor until almost a year later. By then it had spread, and she lived for eight years.”

“Out of four sisters, every one of us had girls,” Passey said. “So, there are nine nieces.”

Many of Passey’s nieces already have been connected with a high-risk clinic to monitor their own health. Her eldest daughter just turned 25 and is in the process of getting into the high-risk clinic at UAB. “One in eight women are usually diagnosed with breast cancer, so I’m determined that we will have a cure,” Passey said.

Risk/ Reward Cancer Patients Need to Continue Treatment Even Under the Threat of COVID-19, Doctors Say

By Emily Williams

G

randview Cancer Center’s Dr. William H. Ennis doesn’t work in public health, so pandemic shutdowns were as much a surprise to him as they were for much of the public.

As a radiation oncologist, many of the patients who Ennis works with are at a higher risk of having a more serious case of COVID-19 should they contract the virus.

But the hospital hasn’t closed its doors during the pandemic, and not a single radiation oncology patient missed a treatment because of hospital actions, he said, despite hospital workers spending the first months of the pandemic battling with a lack of testing and a nationwide PPE shortage, as well as general fear.

“Certainly, with the shutdown, initially we had folks who weren’t coming for regular screenings,” he said.

“It’s something that we wouldn’t recommend missing a whole year of.”

The hospital has since implemented a variety of safety measures to ensure the safety – and peace of mind – of patients and staff.

“We know that radiation can impact the immune system,” he said.

“It’s not as overwhelming as chemotherapy is, but a lot of our patients are on chemotherapy as well as radiation or have just finished chemotherapy.”

In addition, many people suffering See REWARD, page 13

Beyond Physical Activity

By Solomon Crenshaw Jr. Jeff Underwood remembers when staffers at Lakeshore Foundation went to the board and asked for more space.

Underwood remembers that request, which came about 22 years ago, being met with questions from

board members about what would be accomplished with that space.

“I remember the presentation I made, and we had a lot of conversation,” said Underwood, the Lakeshore CEO. “If we get this building, we’ll do this many more classes, we’ll serve this many more people. We’re going to do everything we can to

become the (Olympic/Paralympic) training site, we’re going to start a research program.”

That request yielded the Lakeshore Foundation Fieldhouse, which has given prospective Olympians and Paralympians a place to train. It’s also provided a place where disabled indiSee LAKESHORE, page 16

Journal photo by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.

New Additions Will Help Lakeshore Surpass Its Goals, CEO Says

Lakeshore CEO Jeff Underwood in the new multipurpose room.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

REWARD

Granger Retires as CHS Regional President; Grandview CEO Named Successor

lung cancers,” he said.

Peace of Mind

Photo courtesy Grandview Medical

From page 12

from cancer tend to be older and have other risk factors that make the coronavirus more dangerous to them, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and poor lung function, as well as being immunosuppressed from radiation or chemotherapy, Ennis said.

“So, we try to be as careful as we can,” he said.

When Labor Day approached and patients asked about whether they could see relatives or where they could go, Ennis said he stuck to national guidelines.

“I strongly encourage staying as socially distant as possible, wearing masks, limiting interactions with other people,” he said. “You know, as things are reopening around them, (cancer patients) are really the ones that need to be careful.”

While people at a lower risk of death from coronavirus may feel comfortable being out and about as normal, Ennis recommends they make sure not to congregate in groups or interact with others who could potentially expose them to the virus.

Safety is doubly important this fall, as flu season arrives, he said.

“We’re obviously going to recommend flu vaccinations for everybody and everybody who is working here,” he said, though he does believe new COVID-19 safety measures may lessen the blow from the flu this year.

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 13

HEALTH SPECIAL SECTION

Dr. William H. Ennis

“I do think that wearing the masks, washing the hands and the social distancing is going to probably help curb this flu season a little bit,” he said. “So, this flu season may be a little bit milder than typical years.”

Now that the hospital has safer measures in place, PPE is in good supply and testing is quicker and more abundant, Ennis and his fellow physicians are hoping to see more patients return.

“We’re recommending that folks get back out and do their regular cancer screenings, whether that be colonoscopies, mammograms or … for

Radiation oncology Director Michael Chad Montgomery said hospital staff throughout the pandemic have worked to ensure the safety of patients.

“Initially we, like many other places, started limiting the number of actual people who were entering our building, of course,” Montgomery said. “What we are doing right now, which we have been doing since the beginning, is making sure that everyone in the building is wearing masks – wearing PPE – while they are here.”

Employees undergo temperature checks when they enter as well as being monitored for potential symptoms.

“Knowing that there are asymptomatic cases out there, we wanted to try to curb any asymptomatic spread if we can among patients,” Ennis said.

The hospital’s cleaning schedule has been ramped up, and hand-sanitizing stations are abundant throughout the facility.

In addition, all waiting areas or spots where multiple people congregate – be it a lobby or conference room – are arranged to promote social distancing.

By implementing as many safety measures as possible to lessen the discomforting threat of contracting COVID-19, Montgomery said he hopes to give patients a bit more peace of mind.

Board.

Keith Granger is retiring from his role He has served on the board and as president of the Community Health executive committee of Alabama’s Systems Professional Services Corp.’s Medicare-contracted Quality Region 1 at the end of the year. He will be succeeded by Drew Mason, CEO of Improvement Organization and played­ Grandview Medical Center, a key role in development leaving a vacancy in that and passage of Alabama’s spot.

Infection Reporting Law for Mason takes over the transparency. He serves on Region 1 presidency on Jan. the board of governors for 1, but he will continue as CEO the Federation of American until a new one is selected, Hospitals and on Blue Cross according to a statement from Blue Shield of Alabama’s Grandview. The search for a board. new CEO already has begun.

Mason was promoted Granger will continue to CEO of Grandview in with the corporation as an 2017, after having been the Keith Granger executive adviser to help hospital’s chief operating advance quality, patient experience, officer since 2014. He became CEO leadership development and special soon after Grandview opened, and in projects in select markets, according to that position he helped recruit a strong the statement. leadership team and nearly 500 new Granger became president of Region physicians.

1 in 2017, working with hospitals in Under his leadership, Grandview has Alabama, the Florida Panhandle and grown the employed physician network Georgia. He was CEO of Grandview to 130-plus providers in more than 20 when it opened in 2015 and oversaw locations. The hospital also soon plans the movement of the hospital from its to break ground on a new medical office building and $14 million women’s old east Birmingham location, when it project. was called Trinity Medical Center, to its Mason has been a part of the CHS current location on U.S. 280. organization since 2006 and in 2017 Granger has served on boards at the was appointed by the governor to the local, state and national level, earned Statewide Health Coordinating Council. the highest honor for hospital leadership He is president of the Alabama Hospital from the Alabama Hospital Association’s Association, Birmingham Regional board of trustees and is Alabama’s Council. delegate to that group’s Regional Policy

EVERY CANCER PATIENT IS UNIQUE. AT GRANDVIEW, OUR CARE IS TOO. At Grandview Cancer Center, we customize each care plan per patient to treat with advanced technology and evidence-based medicine. The radiation oncology team is lead by Jennifer De Los Santos, M.D., Cancer Center Medical Director, and William H. Ennis, M.D. Our dedicated care team understands the complexities and will be with you on this journey to provide high quality care.

To learn more, visit GrandviewCancerCare.com.

Jennifer De Los Santos, M.D.

William H. Ennis, M.D.

Radiation Oncologist Cancer Center Director

Radiation Oncologist

3670 Grandview Parkway Birmingham 205-971-1800

Independent Members of the Medical Staff at Grandview Medical Center.

Look Forward.

14 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

Choosing the right rehabilitation provider If your loved one had a stroke, brain injury or other life-changing illness or injury, where you choose to complete rehabilitation makes a difference. The right track is the one that best fits a patient’s unique needs and gives them the greatest chance at a successful return to independence.

At Encompass Health Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital, we know that understanding the care settings available can be overwhelming. The below tips can help you learn more about rehabilitation and find the provider that best meets the needs of your loved one.

Do your research: Many facilities offer rehabilitation services but the quality, experience and comprehensive nature of these services can vary significantly. At Encompass Health Lakeshore, rehabilitation is what we do and what makes a difference.

Don’t assume all therapy is the same: At Encompass Health Lakeshore, patients are cared for by an

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HEALTH SPECIAL SECTION

interdisciplinary team that is experienced in providing rehabilitation for many conditions. We know that the small activities that make up everyday life can be some of the most important, and our functional approach to therapy aims to help patients feel more confident in their return to the community.

Know the guidelines: According to the recent adult stroke rehabilitation guidelines released by the American Heart Association*, whenever possible, stroke patients should be treated at an inpatient rehabilitation facility rather than a skilled nursing facility.

When it comes to finding the best rehabilitation services, be sure you understand the differences in rehabilitation options. For more information, contact Encompass Health Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital. *Source: American Heart Association, Inc.

3800 Ridgeway Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 205.868.2000 encompasshealth.com/lakeshorerehab ©2020:Encompass Health Corporation:1694524

Our results set us apart We offer superior care and results for patients when compared to nursing homes. Research* tells the story. Connect with a higher level of care at Encompass Health Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital.

Learn more at ehc.rehab/otmj20 *Dobson | DaVanzo analysis of research identifiable 20% sample of Medicare beneficiaries, 2005-2009

The Joint Commission DiseaseSpecific Care Certification in Stroke Rehabilitation

3800 Ridgeway Drive • Birmingham, AL 35209 • 205.868.2000 ©2020:Encompass Health Corporation:1514451PPE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

A

Skin Wellness Dermatology

HEALTH SPECIAL SECTION

lison Hayes, CRNP, recently graduated from UAB’s nurse practitioner program, with a focus on adult and geriatric primary medical dermatology, and has been on staff at Skin Wellness Dermatology for two years.

Hayes will focus on medical dermatology and see patients from adolescents to geriatrics. “With my master’s of nursing, I will be able to assess, diagnose and treat patients for issues ranging from hair and nail diseases to acne, skin checks, cancer screening, eczema and psoriasis,” said Hayes.

Hayes said she would focus on what brought the patient in, discuss what they are dealing with and handle it in a comprehensive manner. She wants to make sure to educate them on what they can do to help themselves. “As a provider, the best thing I can do is offer education through treatment. I can give patients medications, but if I don’t educate them on why it’s important to take it and the goal of it, we’re going to have a miscommunication and they won’t feel empowered to take part in their treatment.

“I will do biopsies of lesions that are concerning or are irritating that may be skin cancer. If something on the body appears to be irritated, like a skin tag, I can remove it so it’s no longer an issue. I also do liquid nitrogen treatment and cryotherapy on precancerous lesions.

“I love for patients to come back and have success. I am constantly rooting for my patients to take their regimen and come back with a success story. I’m in their corner and feel better when they don’t have as many acne pimples in a month or are regaining hair. I want to make them feel better, be more confident and be successful in their treatment.”

Patients can request an appointment online or via phone and can also request a specific provider or first available. Hayes will go back and forth between the two Skin Wellness Dermatology locations in Chelsea and Homewood.

Skin Wellness Dermatology, 205-871-7332

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 15

“As a provider, the best thing I can do is offer education through treatment. I can give patients medications, but if I don’t educate them on why it’s important to take it and the goal of it, we’re going to have a miscommunication and they won’t feel empowered to take part in their treatment.”

ALISON HAYES, CRNP

HEALTH SPECIAL SECTION

LAKESHORE From page 12

viduals throughout Alabama have been able to improve their quality of life.

“I think we’ve long met and surpassed what we said we would do if we had more building,” Underwood said. “It’s exciting over the years that we’ve grown to the point where we needed some additional space, which we’ve just now brought online.”

Newest Addition

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Finding the person you can trust with your hair can be a daunting task, but we know you will be at ease with Hannah, Britney and Leia. These gifted young women have established their careers in the beauty industry developing skills of highlighting, color and cutting techniques while using luxuriant products to remedy common hair health issues.

As fall begins, your hair may feel dry from summer’s sun. Redken offers a home regimen with a multi-targeted delivery system. This complex delivers three different proteins to the root, core and tip ends of the hair to keep your hair’s health at its best throughout. Another beneficial system we use is Olaplex. Considered “hair insurance,” Olaplex can be blended into any chemical process to maintain your hair’s integrity during the service. Olaplex is an intensive bonding repair treatment when used as a stand alone treatment. Kevin Murphy offers “skin-care for your hair” treatments designed to replace moisture and strengthen while improving texture - a facial for your hair!

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

tion to take place remotely.

Upgrades to the Wallace Gym bring a bit of a Back to the Future feel.

“The original Lakeshore Foundation facility was there,” Underwood said. “It has now been renovated and converted totally into a UAB/ Lakeshore research facility.”

In 2009, the Lakeshore Foundation collaborated with UAB in a first-of-its-kind partnership between a major academic research university and a nonprofit serving individuals with physical disabilities.

Nick Cotumaccio, vice president of operations for Hoar Construction’s Healthcare Division, said that partnership was housed inside the Lakeshore fieldhouse until work was done to improve the old Wallace Gym. Underwood said research is a key motivation in that space.

“That collaboration has been so successful in getting external NIH and CDC and other grants that they ran out of space pretty quickly,” the Lakeshore CEO said. “A big part of the space in the new addition is related to the research staff.”

That includes a dance studio that’s mostly used in research projects related to dance.

“A lot of our nutrition work relates to diet and obesity, which are big issues in this state,” he said. “We’re not totally driven by but predominantly driven by what was going on in research.”

Wallace Gym renovations provided more than 20,000 square feet of research space, allowing UAB and Lakeshore to lead the world in research programs in rehabilitative science.

Lakeshore Foundation and Hoar Construction last week announced the completion of the latest development project on the Lakeshore campus, a $17.5 million expansion of the Master Campus in Homewood.

Hoar served as general contractor on several recent projects across the campus. Working with Lakeshore Foundation and KPS, Hoar worked to provide state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act for both athletes and local users.

Immediately apparent during a visit to the campus in Homewood are enhancements to the outdoor space in front of and beyond the fieldhouse.

The intent was to create a relaxing and meditative atmosphere surrounding the campus, providing gathering spaces. Several new outdoor spaces were created, including Campus Commons, the Contemplative Garden and the Woodland Walk.

The recent additions include a 21,000-squarefoot addition to the multipurpose facility that is the centerpiece of the Lakeshore campus.

The expansion includes a multimedia lab, teleconsultation suites, innovation lab, video production lab, culinary/ nutrition lab, clinical exercise lab, mindfulness lab, lobby, open office “It can’t just be the fitness and aquatics and sport, which we’ve done very well. We had to include in our range of services nutrition and mindfulness,” space, café and Jeff Underwood, said, above in Lakeshore’s new culinary/nutrition lab. board room.

The culinary The 8,900-square-foot Magnolia Hall, which lab includes a demonstration kitchen with drew its name years ago from a pair of magnoadjustable-height stovetops and state-of-the art lia trees planted nearby, also has been repurtechnology tools for nutritional and culinary education. The multimedia lab and teleconsulta- posed.

“It’s now leased to Children’s of Alabama tion suites feature flat-screen monitors and for outpatient clinics,” the Lakeshore CEO said. advanced audio-visual technology for staff to “That’s just absolutely fabulous for us to have interact with athletes and users remotely.

Children’s on our campus because those chilUnderwood referenced a strategic plan that dren and their parents are coming out to this was developed in about 2010 to 2012. From campus for various types of outpatient treatthat came the realization that Lakeshore had to ment – mostly related to physical medicine, go beyond physical activity. rehab pediatrics, orthopedics – and in that pro“It can’t just be the fitness and aquatics and cess, they get in the habit of coming out here.” sport, which we’ve done very well,” he said.

Children’s of Alabama hospital uses that “We had to include in our range of services space to provide outpatient physical therapy, nutrition and mindfulness. occupational therapy, speech and hearing reha“We also had a feeling at the time that the bilitation services for children and young adults. use of technology to deliver our program was “We all know that buildings by themselves going to become even more important,” don’t really serve people,” Underwood said. “It Underwood continued. “I tell you, the last six months has really underscored that tremendous- takes the staff and the commitment of everybody involved to really get the work done. But ly.” the building has really served our purposes very The addition of digital technology has well.” allowed athletic training and life skills instruc-

Journal photo by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.

16 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 17

HEALTH SPECIAL SECTION

Rehab Reality...

Cheerleaders Create Posters to Cheer on O’Neal Cancer Center Patients

By Emily Williams Though they are rival teams, middle school cheerleaders for Louis Pizitz Middle School and Mountain Brook Junior High have teamed up to cheer for the same cause.

The girls spent the past couple of weeks decorating signs that will soon be hung throughout the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center to cheer on patients as they receive treatments.

The 64 posters will be hung in different units, including hematology oncology, radiation, infusion and the breast health clinic.

Throughout the pandemic, the Patient and Family Services Committee of the center’s advisory board has been looking for creative ways to support cancer patients and health care workers.

“We typically go into the hospital monthly and visit them, just to check in and try to be a friendly face,” said committee Chairwoman Betts Johnson, but that hasn’t been an option because of potential coronavirus exposure.

Johnson’s daughter, Callie, an eighth grade cheerleader at Louis Pizitz Middle School in Vestavia Hills, inspired an idea to not only lift up patients and workers but also kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“I had been trying to come up with ways that the girls can give back,” Johnson said. “I feel like they have this gift where they cheer on their respective teams, but at the same time they have the ability to cheer on more than just those teams.”

On Oct. 1, the LPMS football team will be taking on long-standing rival Mountain Brook Junior High. Before the game, both cheerleading squads will debut their signs as a way to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“My grandmother is a breast cancer survivor and my mom has visited cancer patients at UAB for years,” said Callie Johnson. “It feels good to bring joy for those with cancer and their caretakers in a small way such as posters.

It’s also been meaningful to work with other cheerleaders to do something for others.”

Photos courtesy Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills cheerleaders

by Judy Butler

It’s All About Health

Top, Mountian Brook Junior High cheerleaders. Above, Louis Pizitz Middle School cheerleaders. The girls spent the past couple of weeks decorating signs that will soon be hung throughout the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. On Oct. 1, the LPMS football team will be taking on long-standing rival Mountain Brook Junior High. Before the game, both cheerleading squads will debut their signs as a way to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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Health is a particularly important value for combating addictions. Making the health consequence of a behavior concrete can be a powerful inducement for someone to quit.

Many people stop smoking or drinking after a radical shock to their bodies; for example, Jerry Lewis quit smoking after undergoing heart bypass surgery. Many people also finally succeed at losing weight and cutting their cholesterol levels after a heart attack. Obviously, however, severe heart disease is a dangerous incentive to count on – particularly since not everyone gets a second chance to do something about it. Likewise, getting lung cancer may finally cure you of smoking, but it is a Pyrrhic victory.

The idea is to quit far short of this point. You might quit smoking when you notice you are short of breath, or you are coming down with bronchitis regularly, or your voice is raspy.

What helps people recognize they need to change is tangible – but not overwhelming – signs of physical damage that results from their habits.

Studies have shown that just as many alcoholics who had a single advisory session with a physician quit or cut back drinking as did those who underwent intensive hospital treatment. Interestingly maybe half of the calls

I receive about treatment are from children calling about their parents. This is one reason the majority of our clients have been over 40 years of age.

When they realize that their behavior is no longer a secret to family members they are generally ready for change. We’re often asked about intervention and I have yet to hear of one that went well, at least in the classic form with a professional interventionist there ready to haul someone off to rehab. When family members address the addiction privately with a caring attitude and concern for health it usually goes much better.

Going to Bayshore Retreat is not a punishment.

It’s a gift of health. We focus on physical health with exercise, sauna and massage therapy, vitamins, and gourmet prepared food.

Finally we are Joint Commission accredited.

This huge when it comes to selecting a rehab center.

It basically means that not only do we pass the various inspections and requirements to receive our license, but also we meet the highest standards in the industry.

Before you or someone you love goes to one of the ‘big box’ rehabs, compare everything. Look for the Gold seal of approval. I know you will find that Bayshore Retreat will be the best option. Bayshore Retreat is different and this can make a difference.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SIPPING SAMPLES

Birmingham Zoo Turns Annual Beer Festival into Socially Distant Beer Tasting

T

his year’s Zoo Brews – dubbed Drafts at a Distance – took place Sept. 25 with social distancing measures in place.

The event originally was set to take place June 27, but it was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Samples of craft beers provided by Alabama Crown featured breweries from across the state and the Southeast.

In addition, food trucks from Full Moon BarB-Que and Pazzo Big Slice were onsite.

Guests donated a penny for each pour of beer, with all of the pennies donated going to the zoo’s Emergency Animal Fund. ❖

Simon Vogel and Desi Thomas.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

From left, Ross Black, Kenzie Lambert and Kristen Cochran.

Breanna and Cole Cauthen.

Birmingham Zoo President and CEO Chris Pfefferkorn with wife Theresa.

Sam Cohen and Big Momma.

Lindsey Bond and Kendall Brown.

Taylor and Sam Moffett.

Sam Burn and Alex Shirley.

Quincy Hall, Kristi Johnson, Gayla Bell and Andrew Ault.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 19

SOCIAL From left, Marsha McCarty, Debbie Visintainer, Marsha Hire and Patty Clay.

Mary Charles' Doll House Dolls, Doll Houses and Minatures

NOW OPEN IN Mary Charles’ HOMEWOOD!

Come see one of a kind Fall decorations!

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Come seeNew, usCollectible in our Antique Dolls new location!

1901 Oxmoor Rd. 2820 Petticoat Lane

Tue. - Sat. 10-4:00 5620 Cahaba Valley Road

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Photo courtesy Coronets

991-6887

205-870-5544 870-5544

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

To: From: Date:

Planning for the Future

To: Mary Charles From: Over the Mountain Journal 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax Date: Oct. 2020

Coronets Dance Club Holds 2020 Fall Luncheon

The Coronets Dance Club held its annual fall luncheon Sept. 18 at Vestavia Country Club.

The meeting was presided over by 2020-21 club President Marsha Hire. Arrangements of flowers and fall leaves at each table were provided by Patty Clay.

The purpose of the meeting was to provide members with information regarding activities of the club for the coming year.

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

Please make sure all information is c including address and phone num

Please initial and fax back within 24 hour If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the This is your ad proof for the OTMJ for the Sept. 3rd, 2020yourissue. contact your ad will runPlease as is. We print the paper Monday. approve youryou ad or changes.

Thank formake your prompt attentio

Two new members, P.A. Carmichael and Tammy Townes, were in attendance. Other members present included Catherine Amos, Linda Bachus, Nancy Becker, Redonda Broom, Cheree Carlton, Patty Clay, Carolyn Delk, Glenda Etheridge, Shirley Evans, Sheryl Hardwick, Jean Hendrickson, Marsha Hire, Dianne Horn, Marsha McCarty, Debbie Visintainer, Shelley Watkins, Joy Wilkes and Rebecca Wingate. ❖

To: From:

Mary Charles Robbins Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax May 2010

Please make sure all information is correct, including addr If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press

Thank you for your prompt atte

Babara Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Oct. 2019

COVID-19 TESTING Date:

IN YOUR COMMUNITY

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Oct. 3, 2019 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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

APPT. REQUIRED CALL:

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

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

Thank you for your prompt attention.

205-975-2819 (CV19)

Anyone can be tested, free of charge.

www.uab.edu/livehealthsmartal COVID-Testing_Cahaba-Sun_9-25x5.5.indd 1

8/27/20 6:47 PM

20 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

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Prost!

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

In a nod to the annual Munich-based German folk festival, Cahaba Brewing Company and Mom’s Basement in Avondale teamed up to host an Oktoberfest block party Sept.

19.

The parking lot at Cahaba’s taproom was blocked off to provide enough space for social distancing as well as food trucks, stein-hoisting competitions, live music and more activities.

A line-up of live bands included Oompah-Calypse and Cash Back, with the band Spittoons playing at Mom’s Basement.

Food trucks on site included Alabama Peanut Co., AwwShucks, Maggie’s Farm, Ono Ice and Jacob Schwartz Brats with Harvest Roots Sauerkraut, joined by the House Plant Collective truck.

Folks who could not make it in person were able to take part in a virtual Oktoberfest tasting of Germanstyle beers, led by the brewery’s master brewer. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Cahaba Brewing and Mom’s Host Oktoberfest Block Party

Logan, Louie and Haley Austin.

Ryan, James, Abigail and Anne-Marie Whatley.

Jeff Collins and Dorothy Crowley with Bonnie.

ck Fe fes st tiv En al. try co m Nov 7-8

Ta 2 O Tic ct sti 020 ke ts 15 ng Lo ge ca - N Tra $3 t Th 0 e l B @ o il Ad Co va mm v r nc e e 30 e m we | w ora ww tive rie .m G l os as s sro s +

Shannon and Cindy Ash and Kim and Ken Osburn.

TO E R !

MO OME C

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Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 21

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Susan Dasher, Linda Stewart, Nancy Skinner and Barbara Klyce.

Carolyn Delk, Janet Krueger and Amy Tully.

Back in Action

Antiquarian Society Kicks Off New Year Board members of the Antiquarian Society of Birmingham met recently at the home of President Becky Keyes to discuss plans for the 2020-21 year.

Programs for the society feature speakers on a wide variety of topics related to antiques, art and historic landmarks.

During the meeting, Keyes presented past President Diana Turnipseed with a gift of appreciation for her leadership. Following the meeting, a luncheon was served to members.

Serving on the executive board this year are Amy Tully, first vice president; Lucy Richardson, second vice president; Kay Wooten, corresponding secretary; Janet Krueger, recording secretary; Judy Long, treasurer; Carolyn Delk, historian; and Elouise Williams, parliamentarian.

Others attending the meeting and luncheon were Nan Teninbaum, Linda Stewart, Dottie Hoover, Nancy Jones, Marjorie Forney, Susan Dasher, Jan Smith, Marsha Duell, Nancy Terrell, Kirke Cater, Nancy Skinner, Barbara Klyce, Laura Wallace, Mary Jean Meyers, Rebekah Taylor and Jean Hendrickson.

Founded in 1944, the Antiquarians was formed by a group of women with a shared interest in antiques and a desire to learn more. Among the group’s objectives was promoting their appreciation of antiques as an art form and learning about the historical impact of various objects.

This focus led the society to join in relationships with the Birmingham Museum of Art and Arlington House, which continue today. ❖

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22 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

FOOD

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

By Donna Cornelius

rounded by a flock of Secret Service agents. ept. 19 was prominently “He told me, ‘I really enjoyed marked in my datebook, it,’” Tyler said in a Clinton-esque circled in red ink and decodrawl. rated with stars – the treatBoth Jen and Tyler said they ment I usually reserve for my learned that most celebrities love grandchildren’s birthdays and food. major holidays. That Saturday “Food is the great equalizer,” night, my younger son and I were Tyler said. “Just imagine that you set to go to Tasting TBL, Tyler and can have everything you ever Jennifer Lyne’s new supper club at wanted. Food gives them sometheir home in Hoover. thing they can’t just buy – it gives Tyler, a College Station, Texas, them a memory, an experience.” native, and Jen, who’s from One celebrity chef who’s well Buffalo, New York, met at the known to most Food Network Culinary Institute of America; both viewers didn’t have such a good are graduates of the storied culiexperience with Tyler. “Chopped” nary school in Hyde Park, New judge Geoffrey Zakarian and his York. After their time at CIA, they sous chefs lost out to Tyler’s team headed for New York City. on an “Iron Chef America” pasta“We were going to go to New battle episode.

York for a year to work and learn, The Lynes decided to leave and we ended up being there 16 New York for several reasons: the Tyler and Jen Lyne, (above) met at the Culinary Institute of America; both are graduates of the storied culinary school in Hyde years,” Jen said. impact of COVID-19 on the food Park, New York. After their time at CIA, they headed for New York City.

The couple and their 2-year-old industry, the uncertainty caused by son, T.J., moved to Hoover in July. civil unrest within the city, and the Along with their clothes, furniture fact that they’d never planned to and other worldly goods, the two raise their child in NYC. They chefs packed some pretty impresended up in Birmingham thanks to sive cooking credentials.

Tyler’s sister, Laura Lyne; they One of Tyler’s first jobs was at said without her involvement, the Cru, now closed but during its heymove likely wouldn’t have hapday a highly regarded NYC eatery. pened. Jen was in Birmingham visThere, he worked with Shea iting Laura, who lives with her Chefs Tyler and Jen Lyne Bring Serious Cooking Gallante, a rapidly rising chef on family in Hoover’s Ross Bridge Chops to Their Hoover Supper Club the city’s food scene and a Food neighborhood, when she learned and Wine magazine Best New that the house next door was for Left, beef braised shortrib, huitlacoChef. sale. The Lynes bought the house without Tyler che, jalapeno and cheese tamale, “Cru was the chefs’ restaurant,” Tyler said. seeing it. red mole and lime crema mexicana.

“If you worked at Per Se, for example, Cru was Tyler and Jen, who own restaurants at Hilton Below, blueberry vacherin. where you would go if you wanted to see and Head, South Carolina, and in San Francisco, experience really cutting-edge food. Cru made said they came to Birmingham with plans to people’s careers.” eventually open a restaurant here.

Meanwhile, Jen focused on her love for bak“We still want to do that, but we’re in no ing and pastry at the Dinex Group, chef and resrush,” Tyler said. taurateur Daniel Boulud’s hospitality group.

Meeting Hoover realtor Allison Burleson and “I started at the low end and finally became a hosting a party for her at their house gave them pastry sous chef for two of his restaurants,” Jen the idea to start a home-based supper club. said.

That’s how Tasting TBL was born. The dinners Her first position was at Boulud’s renowned are held on Saturday nights.

Restaurant Daniel, a three-Michelin star restau“It keeps us busy and has allowed us to rant. Later, she moved to Dinex’s more intimate assimilate into the community,” Tyler said. “We DB Bistro, which she said was a bit more know so many people now.” relaxed environment for learning.

The “TBL” in Tasting TBL stands not only She was with Dinex for six years and then Esquina, a Mexican restaurant – a very different Eventually, other catering companies started for “table” but for the name that Tyler and T.J. led other high-end pastry programs at several place from the Michelin-starred restaurants to to call the Lynes. share: Tyler Burks Lyne.

New York restaurants. which he’d grown accustomed.

“We moved around, taking our crew with When Cru, like many NYC restaurants, was “We were shagging out about a thousand us,” Tyler said.

A Dinner to Remember dealt a fatal blow by the 2008 recession, Tyler covers a day,” Tyler said. “It was awesome. It One of their most valued team members was And finally, back to our own supper club expewent to work at Bouley, chef David Bouley’s straightened me out and let me fall back in love Micah Cook, a North Carolina native. Cook flagship restaurant, along with Gallante. with food. I went from super-fine dining to came to Birmingham with the Lynes and is their rience.

Wade and I arrived with other guests at the “Those were long hours,” Tyler said.

Mexican – and then to catering.” supper club sous chef.

Lynes’ house at 6:30 for mingling and this night’s “Bouley was open seven days a week for lunch His first job with a catering company was in specialty cocktail, a watermelon margarita. In the and dinner, so I’d get there at 11 a.m. and go 2012 when he joined – and turned around – Star Attraction large room that includes the kitchen, we could see home about 2 a.m. or sometimes later. But it Cloud Catering, introducing exceptional food to During their catering years, Tyler and Jen Tyler, Jen and Micah hard at work. was the most beautiful kitchen I’d ever seen.” the menu. cooked for an impressive assortment of A-list The Lynes can seat 38 people at three different From Bouley, Tyler’s next stop was at anoth“Jen came on board with us about 2013,” clients, including actors Gwyneth Paltrow, tables: in their dining room, on the screened-in er top restaurant: David Chang’s two-Michelin Tyler said. star restaurant Momofuku Ko. Cameron Diaz and Molly Sims; tennis star patio, and at the Chef’s Table near the kitchen Cloud Catering was a good experience for “After that, Shea and I opened an Italian resSerena Williams; and songwriter Benny Blanco. with a bird’s-eye view of the workstations. We the couple personally as well as professionally. taurant, Ciano,” he said. “Then we had a gloriWilliams wanted her bachelorette party to found our seats on the patio and quickly made The company provided all the food for Jen and ous blow-up.” include a cake-decorating contest, so Jen and friends with our fellow diners – and that’s one of Tyler’s wedding reception, except for the wedthe most fun parts of supper club.

The disagreement with his friend took a Tyler hosted the party in their own kitchen. ding cake, which Jen created herself.

Our conversations ranged from the heat propheavy toll on Tyler’s psyche.

They also catered Williams’ wedding reception “It had five layers that included cinnamon erties of various peppers (we learned from the guy “I was mentally and physically done and sat in New Orleans. apple for the top, strawberries and cream, and across the table that Carolina reaper is the hottest in my living room for two months,” he said. “I During a job at Elton John’s AIDS gala, chocolate-coffee,” Jen said. Friends she’d made pepper out there), where to buy honeyed mead (at didn’t even want to cook anymore.”

Tyler said he was tapped on the shoulder and while working for Boulud’s restaurants helped See TBL, page 23 He eventually went back to work at La turned around to see President Bill Clinton surthe bride put the cake together.

S

Photos courtesy Tyler and Jen Lyne

Turning the TBL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Making an Impact

Journal file photo

Jones Valley Teaching Farm Wins Award for Work With Kids

Birmingham’s Jones Valley Teaching Farm is one of three winners of the Produce Marketing Association’s inaugural Impact Award.

Joe Don Zetzsche, chairman of PMA’s board of directors, said the award’s purpose is “to honor excellence and inspirational actions of people and organizations helping to grow a healthier world.”

Jones Valley Teaching Farm and the

TBL From page 22

Sprouts Farmers Market), and that the name of the spice sprinkled on the lime wedge served with our Modelo beer was called tajin. There was also a spirited debate about the merits of Taylor Swift’s music, with my son firmly in the singer’s corner. A couple who had moved to Birmingham from Boston asked us for local food recommendations and were a little taken aback when, after giving them a lengthy list that included the likes of Highlands Bar & Grill, OvenBird, and Automatic Seafood, we also gave a shout-out to Popeye’s chicken sandwich.

The menu for the evening had a Latin flair – but the food was a far cry from run-of-the-mill Tex-Mex. Our trip into culinary bliss started with a trio of treats: a miniature BLT with those letters stamped onto the bread, a pork tostada pork with salsa verde and pickled red onion, and salmon tartare with cucumber and sesame aioli. Next came a lusciously cheesy Parker house roll followed by a spectacular salad: beets with buttery cana de cabra goat cheese from Spain, membrillo (quince paste), sherry vinaigrette, and, underneath it all, onion ash and a pecan praline.

Herb-crusted cod, with confit heirloom tomatoes and coconut broth, was light and refreshing but still packed with flavor, and the rice course included a skewer of tender pork belly and shrimp, poblano rice and avocado aioli.

Melt-in-your-mouth short ribs were the star of the meat course, with a strong supporting cast of huitlacoche (a fungus that grows on corn, but don’t let that deter you from trying it – it’s a delicacy in Mexico), tamales rajas con queso, red mole, lime crema, and asparagus.

At this point, we all were wonder-

other winners are featured in a mini documentary that will be shared on PMA’s recently launched Impact Award webpage.

“We know that one of the most powerful things a person can do to live a healthier life is to eat more fruits and vegetables, and establishing habits at a young age is key to lifetime produce consumption,” said Lauren M. Scott, PMA chief strategy and membership ing how on earth we’d ever make room for dessert, and I was wishing that stretchy-waisted sweatpants had been an acceptable form of dress for the occasion. But when Jen’s creations arrived, our appetites and our taste buds were re-energized. She’d made an almost-too-pretty-to-eat crème Catalana with berries, elderflower melon, raspberry cream, spiced red wine sauce, and caramelized white chocolate, which were tiny mounds of pure delight. The sweet treats kept coming, and we kept eating. A basket of warm Madeleines was passed around the table, and a smoking box gave a dra-

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 23

FOOD

officer. “Jones Valley Teaching Farm has created a community movement that helps children access and learn about farming through a meaningful hands-on experience that is shaping their relationship with food, providing a deep learning experience and shaping their communities in a very important way. We are thrilled to recognize them with one of the first PMA Impact Awards.”

Founded in 2007, the nonprofit Jones Valley Teaching Farm builds student-centered teaching farms that provide an environment for young people to learn, create, explore and grow a healthy future for themselves and their community.

Through its Good School Food model, full-time instructors collaborate with teachers to help pre-K through 12th grade students connect food, farming and the culinary arts through standards-based, cross-curricular lessons during the school day. matic presentation to the meal’s finale: smoked S’mores.

For those who love food, it was a night to remember. We can’t wait to go back.

To buy supper club tickets, visit tastingtbl.com. Individual tickets are $125, and you can pay an extra $30 for beverage pairings (highly recommended).

Saturday night dates are now available through December. Check the website, too, for updates about the cooking classes Tyler and Jen plan to offer in the future. Follow the supper club on Instagram @TastingTBL_Bham.

GAME DAY EATS!

In addition to its downtown campus, Jones Valley Teaching Farm oversees six teaching farms on the campuses of elementary, middle and high schools throughout the Birmingham area.

The program reaches more than 3,500 children each year. Currently, 25% of the organization’s staff is made up of graduates, a number that the teaching farm’s executive director, Amanda Storey, hopes to increase over time.

“That is intentional and is shifting the paradigm of nonprofit, and that’s important,” Storey said. “When it’s students who have been through the program and can then be able to direct it,

that is community change. That is opportunity.”

Students select the produce to plant based on taste, curiosity and consumer demand. At a free afterschool program called the Market Club, teams of students sell produce to teachers, parents and community members.

For more informatioon about the award winners and to see the minidocumentary about Jones Valley Teaching Farm, visit pma.com. The PMA is a trade association representing compainies from the global produce and floral supply chain.

—Donna Cornelius

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Day & Boarding • Grades 8–12 Discover flexible and individualized learning options for every student at Indian Springs.

Join us for a virtual open house!

Sunday, October 4 Sunday, November 15 Sunday, December 6 Learn more and register now at indiansprings.org/admission

SCHOOLS

OTM Students Recognized as National Merit Semifinalists After enduring a rough spring and fall, a number of students throughout the Over the Mountain community are being honored for their scholastic achievements as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

These high school seniors are chosen from a pool of 1.6 million students at 21,000 high schools, which is less than 1% percent of high school seniors in the country.

Qualification for the semifinalist recognition is based on a student’s junior year PSAT score, along with their participation in school and community activities, demonstration of leadership abilities, employment and honors.

Semifinalists may continue in the competition for about 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million. Winners will be named in the spring.

Here are Over the Mountain students named semifinalists:

Alabama School of Fine Arts: Carol He, William Holland, Elizabeth Jason, Taylor McAlister, Sofia Rabbani and Emma Seidel.

VHCS to Celebrate 50th Anniversary

Spain Park’s New Entrance Dedicated to Military Graduates

On Oct. 5, Vestavia Hills City Schools will officially celebrate its 50th anniversary year.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with tours of the new Louis Pizitz Middle School, located on the former Berry Middle School campus.

Student ambassadors will be conducting the campus tours.

At 6:30 p.m., VHCS officials will host a ceremony in the school’s new gymnasium, which will include the induction of its inaugural class into the Educators Hall of Fame.

For more information, visit vestavia.k12.al.us.

Altamont School: Hannah Ashraf, Lilla Carroll, Robert Pritchard, Tyler Walley and Maaz Zuberi.

Briarwood Christian School: Mason Mathias, Annamarie Thompson and Luke Wolf.

John Carroll Catholic High School: Tyler Wittman.

Oak Mountain High School: Roshni Datta and Aidan Dokland.

Homewood High School: Madeline Garrity, Patrick Harris, Reed Jeffries, Samuel Jones, Caleb McLendon, Robert Merchant, Michael Moorman, Jonathan Parris, Gabriel Quijano, Ayona Roychowdhury, Daniel Wiesen, Matthew “Hugh” Williams and Jane Wilson.

Spain Park High School is selling brick pavers to graduates, students and school families to be installed in its new school entrance.

The new patriotic memorial site has been dedicated to Spain Park alumni who have or are serving in the U.S. armed forces.

The engraved pavers will be installed each year on Veterans Day and arranged beneath three flag poles that fly an American flag, the Alabama state flag and the Spain Park High School flag.

According to school officials, the project was conceived by Principal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Hoover High School: Cullen Blanton, Luke Clark, Wesley Crenshaw, Katelyn Heglas, Ria Shah, Peter Shen, Isabella Torres, Srija Vem and Nathan Williams.

Hoover, homeschool: Emily Rabbideau.

Indian Springs School: Shuqiao Geng, Carina Li Xin Lim, Hooper Markert, Haoze Tang, Paul Weir, Noah Williams and Chu Qiao Zhang.

Spain Park High School: Megan Amrine, Benjamin Deas, Kruthika Dheeravath, Adam Ebrahim, Usman Farooqui, Sama Harrison, Anna Morris, Zane Peacock, Advaith Vadlakonda, John Watson, Wyatt Williams, John Wilson and Amy Yang.

Westminster School: Pierson Black.

Vestavia Hills High School: Alexander Barr, Katy Chen, Ricky Dong, Sarah Gray, Jason Han, Cecilia Kong, Esther Lee, Leighton Reese, Raleigh Robinson, Hanna Sha, Dylan Shi, Alex Stern and Grant Uldrich.

Larry Giangrosso, with help from Jill Carter, social studies teacher. In addition, project supporters include the city of Hoover, Hoover City Schools, state Rep. Arnold Mooney, R-Shelby County, and project manager Millard Williams.

A link to an order form for brick pavers can be found at hoovercityschools.net/sphs. There will be a limit of one paver per military graduate.

Orders received throughout the year will be processed each Sept. 1, and those bricks will be shipped in time for Veterans Day that year. The first brick installation will take place in November 2021, but a dedication ceremony for the site will be held this November.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

OTM High School Homecomings Round-Up

We work tirelessly to help kids get well because the world needs to see what Natalie dreams up.

Homewood

Hoover High Homecoming Queen Emily Knerr escorted by her father, Ryan.

WE DO WHAT WE DO

Photo Homewood City Schools

Homewood High School’s homecoming took place Sept. 11 with a conference game against Chelsea.

While they didn’t make an appearance on field due to health and safety measures, this year’s homecoming Homewood honorees were Homecoming Queen announced.

McKeever Wright Homecoming Queen is McKeever Wright, attended

by Harper Sheils, freshman; Walker Heath, sophomore; Ella Brogdon, junior; and seniors Mariam Abdelhalim, Claire Jacka, Kayla Shirley and Sanaa Taylor.

Mr. and Miss Homewood are Cameron Humes and Mariam Abdelhalim. Mr. and Mrs. Fire Prevention are Ahamed Al Shariki and Katie Justice. Miss Aerospace is Izzy Dettling.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Hoover

Hoover High School celebrated its homecoming with a presentation on as the Bucs took on Oak Mountain High School.

Crowned homecoming queen was Emily Knerr, a member of the school’s track team and a two-time ovarian cancer survivor. She was escorted on the field by her father, Ryan.

Spain Park

Spain Park High School’s homecoming celebration took place on Sept. 11 as the Jaguars took on Thompson.

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 25

BECAUSE CHILDREN

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

HAVE DREAMS.

Mekenzie Richardson was crowned Spain Park Homecoming Queen.

Mekenzie Richardson was crowned Homecoming Queen, escorted by her father, David.

Future Homecomings

Upcoming high school homecoming games: Oct. 2 – John Carroll Catholic High

School vs. Parker High School Oct. 2 – Oak Mountain High School vs.

Spain Park High School Oct. 23 – Mountain Brook High School vs. Chelsea High School Oct. 30 – Briarwood Christian School vs. Corner High School Oct. 30 – Vestavia Hills High School vs.

Shades Valley High School

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26 • Thursday, October 1, 2020

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

EAGLES From page 28

“I think it’s because the majority of these kids are junior varsity and varsity returnees,” Burgess said. “The freshmen who came in are new, but we’ve got a lot of experience with six seniors and seven juniors. We have two sophomores who travel with us when the JV is not playing.

“They have been here (in the program) and know how high the level of play is.”

Even so, Burgess wanted to put her stamp on a program she was already

Joy League Concludes 63rd Annual Season

The Joy League recently completed its 63rd consecutive season of baseball in Homewood.

For the second year, the league held a championship tournament following the regular season. Bob Smith was on hand Aug. 1 to award the championship trophy named for his father, the late John J. Smith, who founded the Joy League in 1958.

Championship trophies for the regular season and the tournament are named in honor of those who have worked to maintain the Joy League through the years. This year’s winners were: • The Clyde Cook Trophy was awarded to the 1A Regular Season Champion, the Yanks, coached by Brett Carter.

• The George Leigh Trophy went to the 1A Tournament Champion, the Bucs, coached by Brian Jarmon.

• The Bill Hutto Trophy for the 2A Regular Season Champion and the Ted Hagler Trophy for the 2A Tournament Champion were both awarded to the Sox/Yanks, coached by Chris O’Neal.

Landry Frisch (6) is leading Oak Mountain in every offensive category. Nora Ohlson (4) and Sydney Jaffe (1).

Far right, Jayni Thompson.

familiar with. She played at Homewood and was an assistant coach at Spain Park and Thompson following a playing career at LaGrange College. She also coached with the Alabama Juniors Volleyball Club for several years.

• The Perry Akins Trophy for the 3A Regular Season Champion and John J. Smith Trophy for the 3A Tournament Champion were both given to the Yanks, coached by John David Owen.

The Joy League’s traditional spring season was postponed until the summer because of the coronavirus.

The league played its games at Homewood Middle School.

“We were excited to have the chance to offer baseball to our players and parents who were able to participate this year,” Joy League Commissioner Tim Meehan said.

“And we are extremely grateful to (now former) Homewood City Schools Superintendent Dr. Bill Cleveland and Athletic Director Doug Gann, who made it possible for us to conduct what became a truly memorable season for our Joy League family.”

The Joy League is a league for boys and girls ages 4 to 12 that stresses the importance of having fun while learning to play baseball. Children do not have to go through tryouts or evaluations to be able to play; every player plays in every game. There are no bench warmers in the Joy League.

Registration for the spring 2021 season is scheduled for February.

After taking over in June, to bond with her team, she took them out for a treat.

“We spent the summer, getting to know each other,” Burgess said. “I took them out for ice cream the very first day. I wanted to get to know them and I wanted them to get to know me. I wanted to know what their goals were, not just for this season or in volleyball, but in life. I want to see them more as a person, outside the gym.”

Burgess also implemented the hashtag #Edgg for the team’s four core values: effort, discipline, gratitude and growth.

“I think it’s great for any program at any level,” Burgess said. “The kids have defined how to evaluate those core

values They have bought in to what we’re doing 100 percent. They trust me and believe in what I’m saying.

They’ve been so committed it’s created a bond.”

On the court, the Eagles have gotten contributions up and down their roster.

“We just have a solid core,” Burgess said, adding a few players have stood out.

“We have two setters, Avery Fletcher, a senior, and Kathryn Smith, a junior. Both set last year and are playing well,” Burgess said. “We have Landry Frisch, who’s been on the varsity since she was a sophomore. She plays as an outside hitter or right side hitter. She is leading us in every offensive category. Our libero, Sidney Jaffe,

has been outstanding. She’s a solid player.”

Frisch and Jaffe are both seniors. In a four-set victory against Spain Park two weeks ago, Frisch had 18 kills and nine digs and Jaffe had 17 digs and three assists.

Despite the Eagles’ solid start, they will be hard-pressed to make it out of a Class 7A, Area 5 that includes Hoover, Thompson and Tuscaloosa County. The Eagles lost the first time they played Hoover and Thompson.

“It’s a really hard area, but we have played some really good teams and we’re not slowing down,” Burgess said. “We just have to play high competition sets and stay consistent.”

Photo courtesy Spain Park High School

Burgess also implemented the hashtag #Edgg for the team’s four core values: effort, discipline, gratitude and growth.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

would be for my first season, even though we’ve been in a pandemic.”

Burgess inherited a talented team that enjoyed some success in 2019, finishing 23-11, so she didn’t have to rebuild. She contributed the Eagles’ solid start to experience.

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SCHOOL SPIRIT SPOTLIGHT

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Senior members of the Spain Park cheer squad are from left: Kelsie Files, Tatum Holley, Whitley Brune, Maci Martens, Reese Kolaczak, Elise Weimar, Alison Hanna, Lily Kizzire, Reia Ozug and Brooke Stewart.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, October 1, 2020 • 27

SPORTS

LUNDY From page 28

Hoover 28, Prattville 6 Thompson 31, Mountain Brook 0 Briarwood Christian 1, Mortimer Jordan 0, forfeit John Carroll Catholic 21, Moody 0 Homewood, Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Vestavia Hills were off

THIS WEEK’S GAMES Briarwood at Shades Valley Homewood at Huffman Hoover at Hewitt-Trussville Parker at John Carroll Catholic Spain Park at Oak Mountain Vestavia at Thompson Mountain Brook is off Above, Mountain Brook’s James Nichols (4) and John McMillan (44) work to bring down a Thompson ball carrier. Top, Michael Brogan looks for running room in the Spartans’ loss to Thompson, the No. 1 ranked team in Class 7A.

CHANGE From page 28

college and the pros. That doesn’t mean you’re going to be a great coach, but you know football and you can pass that along.”

Among John Carroll’s other assistants are Kevin Drake (Gardendale High, UAB, Arizona Cardinals), Terrance Slaughter (Minor, University of South Alabama), Mike Plaia (John Carroll, Army) and Vince Elliott (Pinson Valley, UAB).

Drake coaches receivers, Slaughter coaches defensive backs, and Elliott and Plaia coach linebackers.

“Overall, we’ve got nine former college players serving as assistants at the high school and middle school,” Mara said. “It’s been a blessing having these guys. They work well together and it’s awesome for me to

be a part of it.”

The rest of the high school staff includes defensive coordinator Chris Allarde, offensive line coach Rob Crawford, receivers coach Logan McAlpine and defensive line coach Scott Spencer.

Mara said strength and conditioning coach Jeremy Williams also has had a dramatic effect.

“It’s the first time we’ve had a strength and conditioning coach,” Mara said. “He’s been a game changer for us, getting our guys in better condition. People at the school have seen the great job he’s done and want him to work with other sports.”

Mara and his impressive coaching staff have helped the Cavaliers get off to a 3-2 start, the earliest they have won three games in a season since 2010. They already have surpassed their 2019 win total, when they finished 2-8.

John Carroll has victories over Fultondale (28-10), Cordova (13-12) and Moody (21-0); and narrow losses to Carver-Birmingham (27-22) and Fairfield (13-7). The Cavs haven’t had a winning season since 2010, when they went 6-4, winning only 14 games from 2011 to 2019.

“The kids are really buying in and they’re 100% committed to what we’re doing,” Mara said. “We’re four or five plays away from being 5-0.

We’ve gotten wins, but we hadn’t played our best football yet.”

The Cavs are 1-2 in Class 5A, Region 5 and will play host to Parker (2-2, 2-0) Friday in a region game.

“What I’m seeing is competitiveness in every game,” White said.

“The team has a lot of fight to it.

“In the short time he’s been here, coach Will has created excitement and a culture change. I’m honored that he asked me to be a part of it.”

‘Our line is doing a good job of protecting him and our receivers are playing fast and winning matchups.’

JOSH NIBLETT, HOOVER HEAD COACH

way he sees the game. He looks at the whole field and that three or four seconds allow him to make better decisions.”

Niblett also said it helps Lundy that the entire Bucs’ offense is playing well.

Hoover is averaging 39.8 points per game, featuring receivers such as Malik Thomas, R.J. Hamilton and Isaac Lavoy.

“Our line is doing a good job of protecting him and our receivers are playing fast and winning matchups,” Niblett said.

The Bucs are 3-0 in Class 7A, Region 3 play, but now they are entering the difficult part of their region schedule, beginning Friday at HewittTrussville (5-1, 2-1). They follow that with region games at home against crosstown rival Spain Park and Tuscaloosa County, and then they close the regular season at No. 1 Thompson, the defending Class 7A state champion.

“We’ve got the toughest part of our schedule coming up,” Lundy said, “but I think we’re ready for it.”

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

WEEK 6 SCOREBOARD

downs.

A soft-spoken youngster, Lundy downplayed his performance through six games.

“It’s been good, but I couldn’t do it without our new coaches, the offensive line doing its job and the receivers and running backs doing their jobs,” Lundy said. “It’s been a collective effort.”

Hoover head coach Josh Niblett was effusive in his assessment of the way the 6-foot-3, 190-pound Lundy has played.

“I’ve been proud of him,” Niblett said. “The thing that’s so awesome is the way he developed in the offseason.

He’s always worked his tail off, learning the offense and in the weight room.

“He makes real good decisions and he understands that the better he plays the better it is for us. His awareness of the offense and the respect he has gotten is because his teammates know he will make plays. That’s something you earn. It’s not given to you. He’s confident in what he’s doing.”

Lundy said it’s just a matter of being in the program for four years.

“I’ve played since I was a freshman, so it helps being experienced,” he said. “I got in some games my sophomore season, so it’s three years of playing.”

Lundy started five games during his junior season, in 2019, when Bucs’ starter Robby Ashford was out several weeks with a foot injury. Niblett said that helped Lundy for this season, but the coach traces his development to earlier in his career.

“When he was a freshman and Robby was injured (with a shoulder injury), Josh had to take all the reps in spring practice, and I think that helped him develop,” Niblett said. “And when he was able to start five games last year, that was critical to his development.

“This year, he’s gotten bigger physically. He put on 25 pounds in the offseason. Even now, when we’re done practice, he goes to work out on his own. He felt he needed to be stronger and be more durable.”

Lundy has benefitted from the return of Niblett’s brother, Tad Niblett,

to the coaching staff as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Tad Niblett was Hoover’s offensive coordinator from 2008 to 2014, before spending the past five years as Foley’s head coach.

“It’s been great working with him,” Lundy said. “He’s played quarterback, so he understands the position.”

Lundy has soaked up the knowledge he’s gotten from both Nibletts.

Josh Niblett is also a former quarterback.

“He’s a really quick learner,” Josh Niblett said of Lundy. “He’s proactive and not just reactive. He’s not just reacting to what the defense is doing, but he’s proactive by seeing what’s happening before the ball is snapped and then being reactive. It’s just the

Malik Thomas (1) follows blocking of Nick Paradise (52) and Jason Avelar (76) in Hoover’s win over Oak Mountain on September 18.

School Spirit: Spain Park senior cheerleaders Page 26

SPORTS

Week 6 scores Page 27

Thursday, October 1, 2020 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Josh Lundy has helped lead Hoover to a 6-0 start, completing 91 of 147 passes (61.9%) for 1,505 yards and 14 touchdowns with only two interceptions.

Competitive #Edgg New Oak Mountain Volleyball Coach Bonds With Her Players

By Rubin E. Grant The first month of Grace Burgess’ first season as Oak Mountain’s volleyball coach exceeded her expectations.

The Eagles fashioned a 14-7 record despite not making it out of pool play last weekend in the Heffstrong Tournament, hosted by Spain Park.

“It has been amazing,” Burgess gushed, “much better than I thought it

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

See EAGLES, page 26

‘COLLECTIVE EFFORT’

By Rubin E. Grant

J

osh Lundy has always wanted to play quarterback for the Hoover Bucs. It’s something he dreamed about as a kid while growing up in Hoover.

He has been on the Bucs’ varsity since he was freshman, but this season, his senior year, he’s finally Hoover’s full-fledged starting quarterback. And he’s making the most of the opportunity.

Lundy has helped lead Hoover to a

6-0 start, completing 91 of 147 passes (61.9%) for 1,505 yards and 14 touchdowns with only two interceptions.

Last Friday in a 28-6 victory against Prattville, he completed 14 of 26 passes for 181 yards and two touchSee LUNDY, page 27

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Lundy Shares the Credit for Bucs’ Success

Oak Mountain’s Olivia Steed (9) and Hudson Durrett (10) competing in the Heffstrong Tournament at Spain Park last weekend.

Culture Change

Stan White Helping New John Carroll Coach Try to Turn Cavs’ Football Program Around

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

‘Offensive analyst’ Stan White on the sidelines for John Carroll Catholic last Friday.

On the eve of Auburn’s season-opening college football game against Kentucky, Tigers broadcaster Stan White was on the sidelines for John Carroll Catholic’s high school contest at Moody.

White has been at all the Cavaliers’ games this season, acting as a volunteer assistant coach under first-year John Carroll head coach Will Mara, a former Cavs’ player and assistant himself.

“Coach Will came and asked me if I’d come and help,” White said. “I told him if he needed me to help out, I’d be glad to help.

“I’m kind of an offensive analyst, sort of a new set of eyes. I’m having a lot of fun.”

Mara is glad to have White around.

“He told me he would be as involved as much as I wanted him or as little as I wanted,” Mara said. “He’s come in and he’s really loving it. He’s doing a great job. We’re blessed to have him.”

White already was coaching in John Carroll’s feeder system. He’s the offensive coordinator and play caller for the John Carroll Middle School team.

“I’m enjoying that,” White said. “My kids go to Prince of Peace in Hoover. My oldest son, Braden, is a seventh grader and he’s playing football. My younger son, Harrison, is in the fifth grade and I have a daughter, Lucy, who’s 8.

I coach her in softball.”

It Takes a Full Staff

White, a former Berry/Hoover, Auburn and New York Giants quarterback, said the focus shouldn’t be on him, but on Mara and his coaching staff.

“Coach Will is a good guy,” White said.

“He’s really trying to change the culture at John Carroll. It’s not going to happen overnight, but

‘In the short time he’s been here, coach Will has created excitement and a culture change. I’m honored that he asked me to be a part of it.’

STAN WHITE

he’s making progress and putting the pieces in place to succeed.

“He’s put together an incredible staff with guys who have played at all levels, high school,

See CHANGE, page 27