OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM
SOCIAL
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023
Forever Grateful
Hoover Woman Stunned by Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis, Beats Disease By Anne Ruisi
T Journal photo by Maury Wald
wo years of mysterious symptoms that began with stomach pain eluded diagnosis until November 2022, when Kathy Polk’s doctors figured out the cause of her illness: stage 3 pancreatic cancer. The Hoover resident and her family were stunned as they hadn’t recognized the symptoms of the often-deadly disease, such as persistent bloat, pain in the upper abdomen and back, sudden weight loss and jaundice of the skin and whites of the eyes. “Pancreatic cancer is extremely difficult to find. If you have vague symptoms, you need to pursue it,” she said. “Early detection affords the best opportunity for a cure.” A year later – following a physically punishing 12 rounds of chemotherapy and a nine-hour surgery but with tremendous support from her family, friends and even
See GRATEFUL, page 10
Josh Galloway, center and his mother Michelle Galloway, right, join Bitty & Beau’s co-founder Ben Wright at the grand opening of the coffee shop’s new location in Homewood. Josh, a participant at The Exceptional Foundation, will be working part time there.
A Cup of Opportunity By Anne Ruisi
I
t seems only natural that a man who loves coffee as much as Josh Galloway would get a part-time job as a barista at the new Homewood coffee shop, Bitty & Beau’s. “He’s our coffee connoisseur,” Josh’s mom, Michelle Galloway, said of her 25-year-old son. Josh Galloway, a participant at The Exceptional Foundation, was
excited to start work. Bitty & Beau’s, which opened Nov. 11 at 1625 Oxmoor Road, is no ordinary spot to enjoy a cup of java. It’s staffed by workers with intellectual and developmental disabilities, many of them participants at The Exceptional Foundation, which is just across the street. Inspired by Amy and Ben Wrights’ two youngest children, who have Down syndrome, the brand was born in 2016 under
the family’s leadership in Wilmington, North Carolina. Since its founding, Bitty & Beau’s has been dedicated to reshaping perceptions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, particularly in the workplace, according to a company news release. “Eighty percent of people with disabilities don’t have jobs – and we’re out to change that, not just by providing employSee COFFEE, page 9
Cancer survivor Kathy Polk and her husband Don are working to increase pancreatic cancer awareness. World Pancreatic Cancer Day is Nov. 16.
INSIDE
LOUD SIGNAL TO SLOW DOWN ROAR to honor local business leader at 13th Annual Gala PAGE 4
TOP TOYS OTM toy experts talk about the year’s best bets. Plus our annual OTM Christmas Gife Guide. PAGE 22 WASHINGTON UPDATE Britt calls for Hamas to be ‘Eradicated’ in speech to chambers PAGE 8
FLYING ON SOLID GROUND Homewood witches ride for cancer research PAGE 12
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Disabled Employees Staff New Homewood Coffee Shop
2 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
OPINION/CONTENTS
Guest Column
M HOLIDAY STAR TURN Hoover native lands lead role in Christmas movie PAGE 10
RIDE ‘EM WITCHES Cahaba Heights Witches Ride raises money for beautification initiative PAGE 13
OTMJ CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE A holiday tradition continues! PAGE 24
HERE COME THE HOLIDAYS! OTM communities to hold parades, open houses and more PAGE 28
ABOUT TOWN NEWS LIFE SOCIAL
4 8 10 14
TOYS GIFT GUIDE MTN. BROOK SS SPORTS
22 24 28 36
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
J O U R N A L November 16, 2023 Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: June Mathews, Anne Ruisi Photographer: Jordan Wald Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Solomon Crenshaw Jr., Susan Swagler Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd Vol. 33, No. 8
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 2023 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.
‘Tis the Season for Some Imperfection
y imaginary alter ego visits She’s full of great ideas. me this time every year. The funny thing is that, in spite of She knows I’m a mom preher years of visits and suggestions, my paring to host Thanksgiving dinner, buy alter ego has, to date, remained imagiChristmas gifts for five children and nary. That’s because no matter how various friends and extended family, and much I might want to be more like her, make the holiday season feel special. my true self inevitably cuts a few corAnd she tells me I need her to pull it ners on (or burns parts of) the off. Thanksgiving meal, misplaces my A mix between professional organiz7-year-old’s Santa list, gives my oldest er and ghost of holidays past, she typidaughter the sweater intended for her cally begins her visits by reviewing my younger sibling, wraps a few gifts with KRISSIE ALLEN previous year’s failings and offering ideas masking tape, takes what I can get at the to make this season more efficient and, Christmas tree lot, and shops all the way overall, more perfect. until December 24th. For me, humanity She suggests things like clipping a always wins. few Thanksgiving recipes that no lonI could beat myself up over this ger have the word “easy” in their name Because, let’s face it. reality. I could also let it create anxiety or planning my table decor in advance over all the demands of the holiday Imperfection is one so I don’t have to resort to the brownseason coming my way. Instead, of our most potent ish foliage in my yard to add a little though, I’ve decided it might be wiser pizazz. (and honestly, more fun) to try and commonalities, so She sighs at my inability to take savor the looming imperfection. it’s nothing to be advantage of online organizational Because, let’s face it. Imperfection tools and suggests I at least create that is one of our most potent commonaliashamed of. gift-purchasing notebook she’s been ties, so it’s nothing to be ashamed of. telling me about for years — the one In fact, if the goal is to create a special containing a gift list for each person season filled with memories, the for whom I intend to buy and that I moments that provide the most fodder should carry everywhere like a Mary Poppins’ tote bag. for doing so are rarely the perfect ones. The imperfect This, she assures me, will keep all my lists securely in moments, on the other hand, generate memory masterone place and allow me to mark off gifts in real time so I pieces. don’t (once again) forget a gift or purchase the same item When I think back to my own favorite holiday stories, twice. they never involve someone successfully executing dinShe suggests I hone my gift-wrapping skills, finally ner, buying all the perfect presents or decorating without a use thick paper and silk bows and create perfect seams. hitch. They more often involve muddling any or all of the No more wrapping like a third grader, she says. above (maybe even putting out a fire or two) and still She further suggests inputting strict deadlines on my being able to laugh about it with those we love. calendar for important purchases so I am no longer forced So this holiday season, as my alter ego’s visit draws to send my husband to the toy store on Christmas Eve or near, I think I’m going to respectfully show her to the buy the last tree in the lot that is 2 feet too tall and looks a door. Perfection might now win, but I don’t think it was little like an upside-down umbrella. ever meant to.
Over the Mountain Views Ghoulish Parade Marches Through Crestline Area The annual Mystics of Mountain Brook Halloween Parade marked the spookiest holiday of the year Oct. 31. The parade, which included floats with riders tossing candy and other goodies to the crowds, featured marchers, music and even some pets. The parade started at Mountain Brook Baptist Church and wound its way through the city, ending near Crestline Elementary School.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Inside
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4 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
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ABOUT TOWN
Loud Signal to Slow Down ROAR to Honor Local Business Leader at 13th Annual Gala
In mid-January, Pat Lynch began experiencing stomach pain, a loss of appetite and frequent chills, and he wasn’t getting any better. Add to that a strong family history of cancer, and he was concerned enough to schedule a visit to his family doctor. Blood tests revealed no issues, so a CT scan was ordered. Not long afterward, Lynch received a call from his doctor that threatened to turn his world upside down. “You have a tumor on your right kidney, and it is cancer,” Lynch was told. After weathering the initial shock of the diagnosis, Lynch’s thoughts immediately turned to his family, including wife Tynette and their four children and nine grandchildren, and how something like this might affect their future. “Would I be able to continue doing the work I love and being the ‘Papa’ to all our family as I go through treatments? Do I have my affairs in order? I am a very organized person, and that is extremely important to me,” he said. The right kidney was removed in February, and the tumor was confirmed malignant. Immediately afterward, Lynch saw Dr. Arnab Basu, a
hematology specialist at UAB, who started an immunotherapy regimen of infusions and oral medications. A respected leader in the Birmingham business world, Lynch retired as vice president and managing partner with Birmingham Budweiser in 2009. That same year, he formed Pat Lynch and Associates
‘I have always been that guy who is rushing through one deal to make the next one. Now I just breathe a little and enjoy the moment.’ and Alpha Gov Consulting. He was accustomed to being busy and moving fast. But in the months since his diagnosis and surgery, Lynch has experienced life in a whole new way. “Going through this cancer journey has shown me that it is all right to slow down and enjoy the small things,” he said. “I have always been that guy who is rushing through one deal to make the next one. Now I just breathe a little and enjoy the moment.
I now concentrate on my health more and look forward to playing my favorite sport – golf – again very soon.” More deeply than ever, Lynch appreciates the values of faith, family and friends, particularly during adverse circumstances such as his battle with cancer. “My family has been my day-today strength. Without them, I could not have made this journey,” he said. “Tynette has been my rock, as she has been throughout our 34 years of marriage. Being a caretaker is going way beyond the normal days of married life. She retired as director of tourism for the city of Hoover in May to help me navigate this journey. In addition, I have been so humbled by the outpouring of prayers and support from many friends and business associates.”
ROAR Gala Honoree
On Jan. 13, almost a year to the day after Lynch’s diagnosis, he will be honored at the 13th Annual James Bond Gala presented by ROAR, which stands for Radiation Oncology Accelerated Research. Money raised by ROAR benefits the programs of the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology. “As a community leader, respected businessman and recent cancer survivor, Pat Lynch has demonstrated strength and courage in the face of an unforgiving disease and has come out on the other side with hope and positivity,” said Julie Kim, second vice president and fundraising chair of ROAR. Due to his family history and long-held belief that cancer research is critical, Lynch has been a supporter of ROAR for several years. “Over those years, I have support-
ed ROAR as they honored several personal friends that fought the cancer battle, never dreaming I would be one of those honorees,” he said. “I am truly honored to be the honoree this year, but if I had my choice, I would rather be a donor than a cancer patient.” The event with be Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. at The Club. Tickets are $250 per person and may be purchased online at Roar2024.Givesmart.com.
The evening will include a champagne reception, a dinner, a live auction with auctioneer Christie King, a silent auction, a martini bar and live music by Total Assets. Donations will be matched at a minimum dollar-for-dollar by physicians at the UAB’s radiation oncology department.
NOV. 16 - NOV. 30
Nov. 17-18
Nov. 17-Jan. 15
Thurs., Nov. 16 Casino Night
The Robert E. Reed Gastrointestinal Oncology Research Foundation presents the 18th Annual Finish the Fight includes a silent auction, casino games, music by Young Elvis & The Blude Suedes. When: 7-11 p.m. Where: The Club
Nov. 16-18 Market Noel
Downtown Birmingham 205-251-3381 • LevysFineJeweLry.com
This major shopping event with 100+ regional and national vendors featuring fashion, home décor, jewelry, holiday items and much more is a benefit for the Junior League of Birmingham. When: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Nov. 16, 17 and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Nov. 18. Where: Finley Center
Courtesy
By June Mathews
Pat Lynch and his wife Tynette have been supporter of ROAR for several years. Lynch will be honored at the 13th Annual James Bond Gala presented by ROAR, which stands for Radiation Oncology Accelerated Research.
Alabama Symphony Orchestra
“Scheherazade: One Thousand and One Nights” by Rimsky-Korsakov will be performed in this Masterworks concert featuring violinist Tessa Lark When: 7 p.m. Where: Alys Stephens Center
Sun., Nov. 19 Handel’s MESSIAH
The Alabama Civic Chorale’s 76th annual presentation of the masterpiece Handel’s Messiah has been recognized as one of the oldest in America. The Alabama Civic Chorale and members of the Alabama Symphony will present this timeless work for all to enjoy on When: 3 p.m. Where: Riverchase United Methodist Church.
For more information, visit roarthecure.org.
Glow Wild
The Birmingham Zoo’s annual animal lantern celebration will feature more than 100 lanterns showcasing international animals and one special tribute to Birmingham. This year’s event will feature new animal lanterns plus exciting acrobatic performances each night. When: 5-9 p.m. Where: Birmingham Zoo
Happy Thanksgiving! Thurs., Nov. 23
Sam Lapidus Montclair Run
About 1,500 runners are expected at this fundraiser for the Levite Jewish Community Center and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders. 5K, 10K and 1 mile fun run routes start and end at the center. When: 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thurs., Nov. 30 Bach’s Brandenburg 6 & Holiday Brass
The Alabama Symphony will perform Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 and classical holiday-themed selections. When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Avon Theater
Nov. 30-Dec. 17 Holiday Spectacular 2023
Join us to sing in the season at Red Mountain Theatre! Top singers, dancers, musicians, and Red Mountain Theatre’s Performing Ensembles are ready to celebrate the best time of the year. From heartwarming moments to hilarious comedy, this show is jam-packed with holiday cheer for the whole family! When: Times Vary Where: Red Mountain Theatre
Nov. 30-Jan. 2024 Magic of Model Trains
Calling all train enthusiasts! It’s time to don that conductor’s hat and head to McWane Science Center for the annual Magic of Model Trains exhibit, a cherished holiday tradition that takes viewers of all ages on an enchanting journey of wonder and discovery. When: Regular hours Where: McWane Science Center
Fri., Dec 1 Jingle All the Way
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 5
ABOUT TOWN Storyteller Dolores Hydock and musician Bobby Horton present an evening of stories, traditional tunes and jolly sing-alongs to jumpstart your holiday season! Where: Homewood Library When: 6:30 p.m. for snacks, 7:30 p.m. for the show.
Dec. 7- 16 Yes, Virginia There is a Santa Claus
Two compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play inspired by the famous editorial Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. Presented by Virginia Samford Theatre When: Times vary Where: Virginia Samford Theatre
Dec. 8-22 Christmas Movies at The Alabama Theatre
Beloved Christmas classics are screening at The Alabama Theatre, including “White Christmas” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Die Hard,” “Elf” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.” A “White Christmas” sing-along screening will be Dec. 22 at 7 p.m. When: Screenings vary Where: The Alabama Theatre
Sat., Dec. 9 Tap Nutcracker
Fusing Tchaikovsky’s classic score that we all know and love with the percussive elements of tap dance,
our production creates a brand-new tradition designed to bring the dance community together! Prepare for a magical experience that will enchant and entertain young and old alike! Presented by Samford University School of the Arts at Samford University. When: Two show, 1:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Where: Samford University
Home for the Holidays with the ASO Chorus
Deck the halls with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and Chorus! Sing along to holiday favorites, hear timeless classics, and enjoy the spirit of the season! Kristi Tingle Higginbotham and Dolores Hydock will return to join the orchestra and chorus in bringing the holidays alive! When: 7 p.m. Where: BJCC Concert Hall
Dec. 9, 17 Grinch’s Jingle Bell Party
McWane will feature a full day of hands-on, family-friendly holiday activities, including crafts, cookies and hot chocolate, dancing, photo ops with the Grinch and a screening of “The Grinch” in IMAX format. When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: McWane Science Center
SEND ABOUT TOWN INFO TO: EDITORIAL@OTMJ.COM
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6 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
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Creative Outlet
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goods. Vendors include Natalie Zoghby, Darrell Ezekiel, Sarah Conklin, Betsy Marks, Samantha Bearden, Morgan Johnston, Red Bike Coffee, Tay Thai and Beehive Baking Co Studio By The Tracks is a nonprofit art studio that serves adult artists with autism. The artists receive art supplies and materials, instruction and guidance as needed and artist representation at no cost. They then receive a 60% commission on all sales of their artwork in the Studio’s gallery store and fundraisers. The remaining proceeds go back into SBTT’s programs. “Holiday Open House is such a fun event for us and for our supporters because it’s a chance for people to come out to the studio and experience the magic of the space,” Lauren Cushman, director of marketing and partnerships, said in the statement. “It’s a perfect opportunity to learn more about the studio’s mission and to shop for art and holiday gifts. … It’s always just a great community day.” The studio is in Irondale, at 301 20th St. South.
Studio By The Tracks Showcases Artists on the Spectrum with Open House
HANNA
ANTIQUES MALL & ESTATE SALES
Vintage decorations and more. Come and see us for the Holidays!
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To: From: Date:
elry, photographs, cards, holiday decor, textiles, apparel, toys, stocking stuffers and other gifts will be available for purchase, according to a statement by the studio. Day 2 will include the indoor sale along with an outdoor makers’ market featuring 18 local arts and food vendors selling handmade and boutique items, local coffee, food and baked
Courtesy
Studio By The Tracks is hosting a Holiday Open House & Art Market to showcase the works of artists on the autism spectrum who are affiliated with the studio. The two-day event will be Dec. 9 and Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The first day will be an Indoor Studio Sale. Original paintings and drawings, prints, ceramic goods, jew-
For more information, visit studiobythetracks.org.
Hanna Antique Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 November This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the November 16th issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
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Call us TODAY 205. 704.9020 Medicare Advisors of Alabama is an insurance agency based in Birmingham, Alabama and we’re not a part of the federal government. We do not offer every plan available and currently represent 55 out of 56 Medicare Advantage plans and 21 out of 27 Part D drug plans in our area along with many Medicare Supplement plans. Please contact Medicare.gov at 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on your options.
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Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 7
ABOUT TOWN
Holiday Home Tours Getting Ready for Their Close Up
Legacy League’s Annual Christmas Tour to Showcase Five Decked-Out Homes
IPC Returns for 74th Year With In-Person Tour
Independent Presbyterian Church is reviving its in-person holiday home tour this year, offering tours of three homes and the historic IPC sanctuary decorated for the holidays. Afternoon tea also will be served in the church’s great hall, which will be
festively decorated as well. An assortment of finger sandwiches, homemade treats and sweets made from recipes in the church’s Holiday House Cookbook will be served during the tea, which will run all day. The event will be Dec. 9. Ticket sales will begin Nov. 1. Tickets for the tours will be $40,
while the ticket that includes the home tour and afternoon tea will be available for $75. Children are welcome to attend with a parent for $20. More information, visit ipcholidayhouse.com. Proceeds from the event will help fund IPC’s community outreach, including programs that directly benefit women and children in need.
CHARLES BILLINGSLEY
Courtesy
Five homes dressed up for the holiday season will be featured in the Samford Legacy League Christmas Home Tour this year. The 13th annual tour will take place Dec. 7, and those attending will be able to roam through pop-up shops and be treated to holiday refreshments at the Samford President’s Home, in addition to touring the homes. “This special holiday event helps fund our scholarships for students dealing with challenging circumstances and who are learning new, successful life skills both in and out of the classroom,” said Jan Service, chair of the tour. To date, the tour has raised more than $365,000 to help change the
lives of students who have endured obstacles such as homelessness, inner city violence, the disability or death of a parent or sibling, foster care, parental job loss, abandonment and parental incarceration. Children of parents in full-time ministry also are eligible. For the eighth year, ARC Realty is the presenting sponsor for the tour. Premium sponsors are AllSouth Appliance, Byrom Building, Community Bank, Firefly Electrical and Mountain Brook Plaza 280. Homes will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Guests will select their start time and first home during ticket purchase. Tickets, which will be available later this fall, will be $40 through Nov. 30, then $45 Dec. 1-5; advance purchase is required.
Samford Legacy League Christmas Home Tour volunteers welcome visitors
IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME, AGAIN! Christ mas Classics f or Al l A ge s
Charles Billingsley F EATURING Sadie Good man & Denv er and The Mile High Orc hestra
T hurs day , D ecem b er 14 | 7 p Samford Universit y Wr i ght Cent er 5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 980-9030 southeasternjewelers.net (1/4 mile off 280)
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BENEFITTING
NEWS
8 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
By Solomon Crenshaw Jr. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt delivered a Washington update Nov. 3 with a peek behind the scenes in Israel and Gaza. “Hamas has to be eradicated,” she told the assembled chambers of commerce. Britt said Hamas’ No. 1 goal is to “wipe Israel off the face of this plan-
et,” the No. 2 goal is to “wipe the Jewish people off the face of this planet.” “Folks, if they (Israel and Gaza) are ever going to have an opportunity for peace and prosperity, Hamas has to go,” the senator continued during her speech at the Pelham Civic Complex. “And for people who say that we need a ceasefire, I answer you with this. Would we have called for a ceasefire after Pearl Harbor? Would we have called for a ceasefire right after 9/11? The answer to that is no.” Britt said every generation in U.S. history has been called to do hard things. Now, she said, is that time for this generation. “What we’re being asked to do right now is stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel, to say that as a
Journal photo by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
‘We have to remember that the more division that people see across the globe, the easier we are to attack.’ U.S. Sen. Katie Britt delivered a Washington update Nov. 3 to members of the Shelby County Chamber and the chambers of commerce of Homewood, Montevallo, Hoover Area, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills.
Washington Update
Britt Calls for Hamas to Be ‘Eradicated’ in Speech to Chambers Christian and as an American, I stand with Israel,” she said. Britt talked about what she sees as the need for sanctions and aid to Israel. She said that discussion cannot happen without also considering the national debt, which she said is $33 trillion. “The service on our national debt will be more money than we actually spend on defense spending,” she said. “This is not only fiscally irre-
sponsible; it is morally irresponsible to put this burden on the back of our kids and our kids’ kids. We have to do better.” Britt said there are proposed aid packages that would link aid to Israel to also providing aid to Ukraine and Taiwan. She said aid to Israel should be targeted on munitions. “It needs to be tailored exactly to that. It has to be smart and it has to
be judicious,” she said. “We all have to realize that an emboldened Russia is an emboldened China is an important Iran,” a relationship she called a nexus. “So what the president (proposed) I think is completely unacceptable.”
Critical of Border Policy
Closer to home, Britt was critical of the border policy of President Joe Biden, saying that policy does noth-
ing but facilitate migration. “We have a crisis in this nation on our border,” she said. “I went (to the U.S.-Mexico border) three times in the first few months I was in office. What I saw was truly a humanitarian crisis and a national security crisis. It is open season for drug cartels, for human traffickers, for terrorists. I think right now when we see what’s happening in the Middle East, we know how important it is to have secure borders.” The senator was asked about the friction “between D’s and R’s” looking for ways to work together. “(It’s) about really working to build relationships, even with people who I don’t agree with,” she said. “It’s something I’ve been very intentional about.” Britt cited her recent trip to Israel as an example. “There were five Democrats, five Republicans,” she said. “I made a point to say, look, we don’t stand up here as Democrats or Republicans, we stand up here united as Americans. “We have to remember that the more division that people see across the globe, the easier we are to attack,” Britt continued. “I do not apologize for standing very firmly in my beliefs, but I think that you can do that in a respectful way. Where there are places to work with people, I certainly have tried.” The luncheon drew members of the Shelby County Chamber and the chambers of commerce of Homewood, Montevallo, Hoover Area, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills.
A Lifelong Hike
Veterans, parents, students and Vestavia Hills Rotarians gathered Sunday to Hike the Hill. The group started at the Morgan Road Bridge to make the annual climb past Vestavia Hills High School to Panorama Drive, which is a rise in elevation of more than 300 feet. Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry, his grandchildren and PTO Council President Alyce Manown joined the hikers. The military green Hike the Hill T-shirts included names of 100 veterans, submitted by residents who donated to support Vestavia Hills Community Schools Patriotic Programs. Other Hike the Hill beneficiaries include Alabama Veterans Memorial Park, student scholarships and programming. Hike the Hill was established by the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club. The hill symbolizes a student’s climb from elementary school to high school and on to lifelong learning.
Journal photo by SJordan Wald
Hike the Hill Put Spotlight on Students, Vets
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
COFFEE From Page One
Journal photo by Maury Wald
ment opportunities for people with disabilities, but by showing our guests what’s possible,” said company cofounder Amy Wright. “Bitty & Beau’s Coffee has created a path for people with disabilities to become valued, accepted and included
Inspired by Amy and Ben Wrights’ two youngest children, who have Down syndrome, Bitty & Beau’s was launched in 2016.
in every community. We’ve said it from the start, it’s more than just a cup of coffee,” Wright said. “With the support of the community behind us, we are energized to bring Bitty & Beau’s
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 9
NEWS Coffee to Birmingham, where we know that our store can positively impact the entire community.” Robbie Lee, director of partnerships and outreach at the Exceptional Foundation, said employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities are essential. Since they founded Bitty & Beau’s, the Wrights have franchised their brand with 24 stores across the country in 14 states, including much of the Southeast, Texas, Colorado, Michigan, Massachusetts, Maryland, Ohio and Pennsylvania, according to the company website, bittyandbeauscoffee.com. The shops employ more than 400 people with disabilities. The Homewood store is the second in Alabama; the first opened in Auburn. The shop’s new employees went through training the week before it opened, Michelle Galloway said, adding that she was impressed at how thoughtfully it was done. Employees were interviewed in groups of four to see how they interacted and to match them to specific jobs. The company is clearly supportive and accommodating to its workers, she added.
are essential for adults with developmental disabilities. “Having a business right across the street with this as their specialty is an amazing opportunity for our participants,” he said. Josh Galloway, who became disabled as an infant due to treatment and surgery for brain cancer, was assigned barista duties. He said it was fun to learn how to make coffee drinks. While his favorite to make is an iced latte, his favorite type to drink is a caramel macchiato, he said. One employment challenge in gen-
eral for workers, including the disabled, is finding reliable transportation to get to a job. Michelle Galloway noted that her son uses Uber to get to his other part-time job at a gym, where he works 12 hours a week. That can get expensive and isn’t an option for some. Bitty & Beau’s location across the street from The Exceptional Foundation is more convenient. “With Bitty & Beau’s being so close, we will be able to walk them across the street and back to the Exceptional Foundation once their
Jobs Are Key
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shifts are complete. For our participants working at Bitty & Beau’s, this level of convenience is extremely helpful to their parents and caregivers,” he said. Michelle Galloway agreed and said she thinks the business will be a success. The staff at The Exceptional Foundation is thrilled the shop is open. “We are so excited for the Bitty & Beau’s family, and our staff can’t wait to get our first cup of coffee!” Lee said.
LIFE
10 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
Holiday Star Turn
Savannah Lathem, in front, is starring in a new movie called “A Law for Christmas.”
Hoover Native Lands Lead Role in Christmas Movie
Savannah Lathem has experienced her share of adversity, even though she’s only 25. But the past few months, things have been on the upswing for the young actress who is a Hoover native now living in McCalla. She got married in August, and now she’s starring in a Christmas movie called “A Law for Christmas.” The premiere will be Nov. 21 at the Birmingham Premiere LUX Ciné GSX & Pizza Pub on Lakeshore Parkway. It also will be premiered at theaters in Nashville and Tampa. The
movie will be shown in select theaters in several states throughout the country. For Lathem, the movie represents somewhat of a comeback. In 2019, she contracted Lyme disease and was exposed to mold. She spent six months in the hospital, hooked up to an IV receiving an antibiotic. “It was horrible,” Lathem said. “I was sick for a long time. I couldn’t do anything. So, this is like my comeback role. I hadn’t acted for several years.” Lathem stars as Gloria Winters, an aspiring politician who wants to be in Washington, D.C., but lands a cabinet
GRATEFUL From Page One
strangers – Polk is cancer-free. “It’s something I’ll forever be grateful for,” she said. Now, Polk is working to increase pancreatic cancer awareness and help people recognize the signs, especially this month, which is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. World Pancreatic Cancer Day is Nov. 16. She joined members and supporters of the Alabama affiliate of the nonprofit Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or PanCAN, at PurpleLight, an awareness event held outside Legacy Arena on Nov. 10. Purple is the color to signify the fight against pancreatic cancer, a disease that claims 85% of patients because of late detection, according to PanCAN. PanCAN funds research, conducts community outreach and advocates for increased federal research funding. It also provides patient and caregiver support, services Polk said contributed greatly to her recovery.
Early Tests Show Nothing
“I felt like I had a basketball in my gut for months,” she said. Polk saw her gastroenterologist in October, and he ordered an abdominal ultrasound in January, followed by an upper GI and colonoscopy in early February 2021. But nothing unusual was found. The doctor recommended she get back in touch in six weeks if the symptoms persisted. Polk said she did not follow through. “I chalked it up to stress from COVID and the political upheaval after the 2020 election,” she said. The symptoms continued off and on for another 20 months, but she kept putting off getting them checked again for several months while she took care of one of her sisters with a disability similar to Parkinson’s Disease. Polk said she couldn’t take the time for doctor appointments for herself. Finally, at the end of September 2022, she suffered from excruciating mid-back pain all night followed by the onset of jaundice on Oct 1, a Saturday. On Monday, she had an ultrasound that found nothing. A week later, she had an MRI as the jaundice worsened. The MRI detected a large tumor on the head of her pancreas. It was so large that it completely blocked the main bile duct. A biopsy confirmed cancer and a stent was placed in the
bile duct, which cleared up the jaundice. “Ignoring symptoms is not the intelligent approach to preserving one’s life when dealing with cancer,” Polk said, noting there is a history of cancer in her family and her father died from colon cancer. Next, Polk saw Dr. John B. Rose III, a pancreatic cancer surgeon at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her treatment plan called for 10 rounds of chemo, followed by Whipple surgery, a complicated, 9-hour abdominal procedure that included removal of the tumor and parts of her digestive tract and the resectioning of many tiny pancreas blood vessels by vascular surgeon Dr. Adam Beck. Two more rounds of chemo followed surgery. Recovery has been challenging, including dealing with nausea and fatigue after each round of chemo and a severely upset digestive process for five months after surgery. A healthy lifestyle is crucial to recovery, and Polk said she “got religious about my diet and exercise regime.” “I’ve got a whole little gym downstairs in my basement,” she said. While recent tests have shown Polk is cancer-free, it doesn’t mean she’s cured. Regular doctor visits, blood tests and imaging scans are now a regular part of life. A cancer patient is
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Her cancer journey began in 2020 with occasional, unexplained stomach pain and bloat.
position as secretary of agriculture and has to go to the countryside. “The only thing she really valued was a bigger paycheck and the happy life it could buy,” Lathem said. But once Gloria travels to a small farming community for work, her life is transformed when she encounters a little girl and learns the value of Christmas. Her character also falls in love with her co-star, a character played by Chase Giacomo. “The thing I like the most about playing the lead role of Gloria Winters is that her character transitions in so many ways throughout the film,” Lathem said. “She evolves from being very self-centered and business driven with a business-driven
Courtesy
By Rubin E. Grant
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Kathy and Don Polk, center, with members and supporters of the Alabama affiliate of the nonprofit Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or PanCAN, at PurpleLight, an awareness event held outside Legacy Arena on Nov. 10.
considered cured after there is no sign of cancer on blood tests and scans for five years or more. “I highly urge everyone to be aware of cancer symptoms, all available cancer tests and cancer biomarker blood tests that might apply to symptoms, and your family cancer history,” Polk said. “Advocate for yourself until you get answers.” For more information or to get a Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month Toolkit, contact Snapper Freeman, PanCAN’s community relationship manager at 865-748-6309 or snapperfreeman@pancan.org
7 Steps to Reduce Your Risk for Pancreatic Cancer 1. Know the symptoms: Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include pain in the abdomen, back pain, nausea, poor appetite, weight loss, stool changes, diabetes and yellowing of skin or eyes. 2. Make healthy food choices: Eat fruits and vegetables at every meal. These foods have vitamins and minerals that can help to reduce your risk for cancer. 3. Get moving: Regular physical activity improves your body’s ability to fight off illness. It also reduces your risk for pancreatic and other cancers. 4. Limit alcohol: Drinking a lot of alcohol may increase your risk for pancreatic cancer. Occasional drinks are fine. 5. Don’t use tobacco products: Cigarettes, cigars and chewing tobacco increase your risk for pancreatic cancer. 6. Be mindful of your weight: If you are overweight, work on shedding some of those extra pounds. Even losing a small amount of excess weight can benefit your health. 7. Learn your family history and get annual checkups: Tell your health care provider about your family history. Ask about steps to reduce your risk. For more information, contact PanCAN Patient Services toll-free at 866-458-3286 or pancan.org/ReduceYourRisk. Support in English and Spanish is available MondayFriday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific Time. Source: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
work ethic to realizing the true values of life in family and community.” The film is an original of Wesely Bros., an independent film company operated by brothers Simon and Joshua Wesely. They also released a movie called “2025” in 2021. They will join Lathem and Giacomo on Fox 6’s “Good Day Alabama” on the morning of the Birmingham premiere to discuss the movie.
Unexpected Role
Lathem didn’t expect to land the lead role. “I never auditioned for it,” she said. “I auditioned for one of the supporting roles, not the lead. But they called me back about two weeks later after my audition and told me they wanted me to play the lead.” That presented somewhat of a problem. She was a newlywed and wasn’t sure whether her husband, Matthew Blaes, would be OK with her being gone for an extended time. The couple was married Aug. 5 at the Burns Bluff at High Falls Wedding and Event Venue in Albertville. “We were going to be filming all of September,” Lathem said. “I didn’t know if that would work since I had just gotten married. I asked Matthew if he was going to be OK with me going off to film a movie. He told me he never wanted to be the one to get in the way of me fulfilling my dreams, and I would be the same way with him. “We were filming in Nashville, which wasn’t that far away, so he told me to go for it.” As the lead actress, Lathem had to memorize the entire script, all 124 pages. “It’s so different,” Lathem said. “I’ve always wanted to do a Christmas movie. ‘A Law for Christmas’ is a family fun Christmas film full of comedy, drama and romance combined. The thing I like most about ‘A Law for Christmas’ is that it is a faith-based Christmas film that centers around modern everyday life resolving conflicts with Christ at the center.”
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 11
LIFE Child Actor
The youngest of three siblings, Lathem has been acting since she was a child. She was homeschooled and took online classes in Los Angeles and Birmingham from the fourth grade until graduating high school. “I always knew I wanted to be an actress,” she said. “I loved watching TV and I always knew I would be on TV.” Lathem’s first television role came in 2009, when she was 10 and appeared as a guest star on ABC’s “Lost.” She played young Rachel Carlson, for which she received a Young Artist Award nomination for Best Performance in a Guest Star role. She was in Los Angeles at the time, but the episode was filmed in Hawaii. It was a case of art mimicking real life. Lathem’s character played the role of a child whose mother had cancer. Lathem’s real-life mother, Gina Lathem, had just gone through breast cancer treatments then was diagnosed with another rare cancer and given only a year to live. Gina Lathem decided to go be with her daughter in Los Angeles and then accompanied her to Hawaii for the filming. In “Lost,” Lathem’s character’s mother survives her battle with cancer, and Gina Lathem took that as a sign. “She said, God’s going to cure me,” Savannah Lathem recalled. “After we flew back, she had a CT scan and a CAT scan and the cancer was gone. The doctor said, ‘What did you do.’ And she said, ‘It was the Lord.’” Savannah Lathem made her feature film debut in 2013 in “California Solo” alongside Robert Carlyle at the Sundance Film Festival. The role earned her a Young Artist Award for Best Supporting Role. Not limited to acting, Lathem is a skilled singer, songwriter, dancer and classically trained pianist. In 2019, she was in the Lionsgate biographical western “Hell on the Border,” which
139 ACRES (+/-)
FORMER PINE HARBOR GOLF CLUB
ABSOLUTE AUCTION
includes a song she wrote and performed called “Gonna Make a Change,” based on the life of Bass Reeves, who was the first African American U.S. marshal. Lathem also has made a number of TV appearances, including on the TNT series “Major Crimes,” “I Didn’t Do It” on the Disney Channel, and “Criminal Minds.” In 2016, she won Young Entertainer Award for Best Actress in a guest starring role on “Major Crimes” in the episode “A Rose Is a Rose.” She won Best Actress at the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival for her lead role in the independent feature film “The Guest House.”
TikTok Star
Lathem, who has a psychology degree from Liberty University, admits she’s addicted to social media, especially TikTok, where she has more than 150,000 followers. In fact, that’s how she met her husband. She and Blaes had both posted popular content on the app. In 2020, while she was living in Atlanta and he was living in Mobile, they began messaging each other about collaborating. They discovered they were both from Birmingham, and in early 2022 they each decided to move back to Birmingham without either one knowing. Once they discovered they lived close to one another, they decided to meet in person and sparks began to fly. Exactly one year later, Blaes proposed. “We just found out that we had so much in common,” Lathem said. The couple lives in McCalla. Blaes, an avid photographer, works as a car salesman for Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Hoover. When she’s not acting, Lathem works with her parents, Don and Gina Lathem, at Champion Properties, a residential real estate investment and property management firm in Helena. “My whole family is entrepreneurs,” Lathem said. “But I love acting and I love music.”
Mountain Brook’s Warburton Earns Eagle Rank
Reed T. Warburton Jr. was awarded scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout, Oct. 15. Reed is a member of Boy Scout Troop 53, chartered to St. Peter’s Anglican Church in the Vulcan District of the Greater Alabama Council of the Reed T. Warburton Jr. Boy Scouts of America. For his Eagle project, Reed planned
and led a group of volunteers in the construction of a footbridge over Village Creek. The bridge is at the Reed Harvey Park trailhead of the Freshwater Land Trust Red Rock Trail System in Center Point. Reed has been an active member of Troop 53, holding multiple leadership positions before ultimately being elected senior patrol leader. He is a member of the Coosa Order of the Arrow Lodge and now serves the troop as a junior assistant scoutmaster. Outside of scouting, Reed is a junior at Mountain Brook High School, a member of the cross-country and track teams and active in the youth programs of Independent Presbyterian Church.
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12 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
Flying on Solid Ground
LIFE
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Homewood Witches Ride for Cancer Research
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Bikes, not brooms, were the vehicles carrying the “witches” Oct. 30 at the annual Homewood Witches Ride fundraiser for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB. The spirit of Halloween filled the fall air as the afternoon event began at Homewood Central Park. The “witches” rode their “brooms” throughout the community while tossing candy and treats to children along the way. The witches ride is a community tradition to celebrate cancer survivors and those who have fought the disease.
Hanna Degroat, Kayla Holland, Megan Martin, Carli Brasfield, Ryanne Player Hayden Patton, Elizabeth Luther, Val King, Jennifer Hunter
Molly Casp, Ashton Antonetti, Micah Knott, Hannah Morris Wendy Davis, Ashley Kaplan
Katie Ross, Carrie Gargis, Kathryn McPhaul, Megan Gargis
Mallory Murphy, Molly Duncan, Kaitlyn True
Leigh Mathews, Janna Rutland, Whitney Thomas, Courtney Burger
Haleigh Zollinger, Cindy Uncapher, Ellen Buckner, Katherine Uncapher
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 13
LIFE
Ride ‘Em Witches The Witches of Cahaba Heights rode again last month as Halloween approached. Women dressed up and decorated their bikes and golf carts for the ride from Hollis Crossing to the Heights Village, where a family-friendly block party ensued. Awards were given for best team theme and best bike décor. Funds raised went to the Cahaba Heights Merchant Association Community Beautification Initiative.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Cahaba Heights Witches Ride Raises Money for Beautification Initiative
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
FOR THE LOVE OF BALLET Ballet Women’s Committee Sponsors Luncheon and Fashion Show
T
he Vestavia Country Club on Nov. 2 was the setting for the annual Fall Extravaganza Luncheon, Fashion Show and Silent Auction, a benefit for The Alabama Ballet. The invitational volunteer organization has for decades raised money for the Alabama Ballet and is the presenter of the Poinsettia Debutante Ball. Its website notes the committee’s mission is to foster interest in and promote the development of ballet in Alabama by offering educational, charitable and cultural projects. ❖
Stephanie Neeley, Amanda Gross, Stephanie Smith
Andrea Traylor, Jamey Vincent, Jane Bochnak
Sarah Rienzi, Sarah Bryan, Lisa Boland
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Laurel Patrick, Susan Martin, Aimee Stone
Joy Brunson, Melinda Grayson
Claire Stewart, Shannon Marek
Stacy Ball, Leslie Crawford
Amy McLane, Brandi Lowery
Candi Peeples, Mandy Waguespack
Morgan Cunningham, Annie Bailey
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Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 15
16 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL
Cha Cha Again
Dance Club Gathers for First Fall Event During the party, new officers were welcomed: President Margaret Murdock, parliamentarian Vickie Rader, first Vice President Diane Waud, second Vice President Carla Kent, Secretary/Treasurer Sally Yeilding, membership committee Koko Mackin, publicity committee Nancy Mason, yearbook chairman Connie Porter and President-elect Celia Stradtman. ❖
Diane Waud, Elise Blackerby
Margaret Murdock, Laura Colebeck, Leslie Mapes, Janet Perry
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After a summer apart, members of the Cha Cha Dance Club gathered for a soup supper at the home of Jan and Grantland Rice. The food was provided by Grant Estess of Soup Basement, and Diane Waud and Carla Kent created a fall setting for the festivities. The club had kicked off its year with a Cinco de Mayo party at the home of Maggie and Will Brooke.
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How to Navigate Estate Sales
Mother-Daughter Team Speak to Antiquarian Society In First Meeting of the Year
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“Treasure Hunting at Estate Sales” was the topic for discussion as the Antiquarian Society of Birmingham recently gathered for its first meeting of the 2023-2024 year at Vestavia Country Club. Carol Nichols and Kimberly Hartley, the mother-daughter team behind Next Generation Estate Sales in Birmingham, were the guest speakers. Nichols talked about beginning the estate sale business with her mother, and Hartley told of continuing the business using social media to build and enhance sales. An estate sale requires lots of knowledge, labor, setup and advertising, they said. Their main tips were to go early, pull tags on large items and bring help to load big purchases.
President Kay Clark presided at the meeting and first Vice President Dottie Hoover introduced the speakers. Attending the meeting were Amanda Adams, Judy Anderson, Emily Blount, Redonda Broom, Stephanie Byrne, Kirke Cater, Elaine Clark, Kay Clark, Angela Comfort, Paula Cox, Katelyn Crawford, Mary Lynda Crockett, Martha Lee Culp, Naomi Cunningham, Susan Dasher, Carolyn Delk, Lesley DeRamus, Cece Dillard, Carolyn Drennen, Vicki Drummond, Marsha Duell, Shirley Evans, Della Fancher, Fran Fendley, Marjorie Forney, Marlea Foster and Joann Fox. Also attending were Diane Gay, Anne Gibbons, Claire Goodhew,
Mallory Gray, Kay Grayson, Annie Green, Charmion Hain, Judith Hand, Jan Hatchett, Jean Hendrickson, Vera Hendley, Anna Holley, Megan Holley, Sandra Holley, Dottie Hoover, Sara Jackson, Annalisa Jager, Rosemary Jager, Nancy Jones, Becky Keyes, Barbara Klyce, Elizabeth Koleszar, Janet Krueger, Judy Leesburg, Audrey Lindquist, Judy Long, Tainey Marcoux, Gina Martin, Rebecca Mason, Judy Matthews, Nancy Morrow and Mary Jean Myers. Also in attendance were Betty Northen, Meridith Peeples, Beverly Phillips, Helen Pittman, Kathryn Porter, Margie Preston, Lucianne Pugh, Natasha Randolph, Lucy Richardson, Carla Roberson, Lynda Robertson, Donald Roth, Carolyn Satterfield, Sarah Scholl, Janeal Shannon, Nan Skier, Dr. Chandler Smith, Jan Smith, Jane Smith, Linda Stewart, Suzanne Talferro, Rhetta Tatum, Rebekah Taylor, Nan Teninbaum, Carole Thonas, Ellen Tucker, Alice Porter Turk, Sarah van Os, Barbara Wall, Elizabeth Wallace, Laura Wallace, Lisa Warnock, Liz Warren, Lynda Whitney and Margie Williams. The society was founded in 1944 by a group of women who shared interests in antiques and historic items of significance. These interests in art, collections, architecture and history inspire educational and informative programs throughout the year. ❖
Carol Nichols, Kimberly Hartley, Kay Clark.
Susan Miller, Mary Owen, Dee Emerson, Karen Eddleman
Courtesy
Margaret Murdock, Vickie Rader, Carla Kent
New symphony officers include: Rebecca Blythe, Debbie Reid, Paula Verdu, Linda Griggs. Standing: Mary Smith, Michael Meeks, Janet Lauer, Rosemarie Kramer and Verna Gates.
Greeting a New Year – and Officers
Symphony Volunteer Council Celebrates New Officers in Reception It was a crowd of 40-plus symphonic fans who gathered at the home of Paula and Pedro Verdu to celebrate the new leadership for the Symphony Volunteer Council. The reception welcomed experienced volunteers along with new faces gathered to support the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Michael Meeks, now immediate past-president, has passed the gauntlet to new President Rosemarie Kramer. Kramer has pledged to bring in a new event to support the orchestra and its education programs. Committees are developing a new approach that will soon be announced. The SVC hosted a successful 2022
Decorators Show House at Hallmark Farms that raised $225,000 for the symphony. “Birmingham is so fortunate to have a world class symphonic orchestra. It is one of the attractions for people interested in moving here and enhances the lives of everyone … by bringing culture to our community. We plan to support the present and future of this major asset so the beautiful music will play on,” Kramer said in the press release. Other new leaders for the council are vice presidents of education, Linda Griggs and Debbie Reid; vice president of membership, Mary Smith; vice president of hospitality, Janet Lauer; treasurer, Paula Verdu; assistant treasurer, Diane Ray; recording secretary, Rebecca Blythe; corresponding secretary, Terry Standridge; parliamentarian, Michael Meeks. New committee heads also were announced: guest artist hospitality, Zane Rhodes; Lois Picard Luncheon, Rebecca Blythe, orchestra hospitality, Claire Hudson and Debbie Kristofco; publicity, Verna Gates; volunteer coordinator, Liz Saunders; and Key Notes editor, Cissy Jackson. ❖
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‘Women of True Grit’
Edie Hand spoke at the Women’s Committee of 100 for Birmingham Luncheon on Oct. 24, talking about her “Life Pearls” and the effects they have had on people. Hand also shared highlights from her “Women of True Grit” book and signed copies for those attending. In describing the book, Hand’s website said it “offers 60+ heartmoving stories of women from all walks of life who navigated with grit to transform their lives and those of the people around them.” “The audience and I were deeply moved as Edie so elegantly reminded us that our life stories are a result of choices,” Women’s Committee of 100 member Christy Swaid said. “Each day, we have free will and the power to make choices that will either lead to positive or negative outcomes.” Miss Alabama 2023 Brianna Burrell, accompanied by Kevin Hill, sang “The Impossible Dream.” “Women of True Grit” can be purchased from online booksellers, independent bookstores or at edie-
Courtesy
Author Discusses Her Book With the Women’s Committee of 100 for Birmingham
Edie Hand, Stephanie Byrne
hand.com/books. In addition to writing numerous books, Hand is a businesswoman, speaker, media personality, filmmaker and mother. She has partnered with Sinclair Broadcasting and Alabama Public Television for Women of True Grit vignettes and documentaries. Hand invites women to join her sisterhood at grit.ihub.app. The mission of the Women’s Committee of 100 is to increase awareness of the distinct strengths and contributions of the Birmingham area and Alabama. ❖
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Loaded with Christmas and Gifts Tues.-Sat. 10-4:00 5620 Cahaba Valley Road
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Attic Antiques Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 November This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Novmeber 16, 2023 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
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SOCIAL The Lord Wedgwood Charity sponsored its annual social and golf tournament Oct. 22-23 to raise money for its national effort to supply automatic external defibrillators to schools and community gathering areas. The social was at the Grand Bohemian in Mountain Brook and the golf tournament followed the next day at Greystone County Club Legacy Course. The Lord Wedgwood Charity has a particular Birmingham connection. The late Lord Piers Wedgwood, theninternational ambassador for Wedgwood China and Waterford Crystal, was in Birmingham in 2001 playing golf with friends when he was struck with a major heart attack. He was saved with an AED. Wedgwood then connected with longtime friend and business partner Frank Bromberg III, along with Floyd Larkin and Robbie Robertson, to create the Lord Wedgwood golf tournament to raise money to make sure more people have access to the lifesaving device. Since its establishment, the charity has raised more than $600,000 and placed more than 450 AEDs and EKG devices across the U.S., mainly in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana Pennsylvania and Texas. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Wedgwood’s Legacy
Social and Golf Tournament Raises Money for AEDs in Public Places
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
18 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
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To: From: Date:
Shay Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 November This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the November 16, 2023 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
205-874-9730 | jmancuso@abc-seniors.com
Whether it’s baking cookies, playing golden oldy holiday tunes or reminiscing about the good old days, give Santa’s elves at Always Best a call for some festive cheer. We can also provide our usual services such as housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders and regular office staff visits. You can reach us 24 hours a day at 205-874-9730 or email us at jmancuso@abc-seniors.com
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL
Little Black Dress
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 19
The Assistance League of Birmingham held its Little Black Dress luncheon, fashion show and holiday shopping event at the Vestavia Country Club on Nov. 1. The event was a fundraiser to support the organization’s three philanthropic programs – which include Operation School Bell, which provides clothes for children, Operation Literacy, which tutors children in reading, and Prime Time Treasures, which serves senior artisans by offering their crafts for sale. ❖
Jenny Bishop, Cheryl Sanders
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Fashion Show and Shopping Event Converge
Cherry DeRosa, Meredith Carter, Claire DeRosa
Mary Ann Wade, Patty Hughston
W E ’ R E L E AV I N G A
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE, ONE LEGACY AT A TIME Dora and Sanjay Singh understand investing. That’s why their estate plan includes a gift to the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham. By focusing on education and cultural opportunities, Dora and Sanjay believe their gift will make Birmingham a more inclusive home for people from all over the world and build bridges to a better future for generations to come. Sanjay says, “We trust the Community Foundation to manage our legacy gift because they have the experience, history and collaborative spirit to drive the transformational change we envision for Birmingham.” Visit cfbham.org/legacy and learn how you can join Dora and Sanjay in creating a lasting legacy for our community.
Valerie Sarver, Kay Frazier
2402 MONTEVALLO RD MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE 205.879.0125 TABLE-MATTERS.COM
20 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL
Festive Fiesta
Fiesta was the theme as members of the Coronets Dance Club gathered at the Vestavia Country Club on Oct. 20 for their fall dance. Large sombreros were centered on top of multi-colored runners on each table, with sunflowers, maracas, balloons and candles completing the centerpieces. Tammy Towns and Beth Glisson decorated the ballroom with the fiesta theme. The chef at the club prepared a meal of Cabo salad, chicken adobo, carne asada, pork empanadas, Mexican rice, churro beans, street corn, chips with rojo, verde and corn salsa. Flan and tres leche cake were served to end the meal. Members and their guests danced to the sounds of the Streetkar Band. Those dancing the night away were: Judy and David Long, Lynne and Joe Nicholson, Sally and Bob Stanley, Pat Garlikov and Jim Harrison, Joyce and Jim Talbot,
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Coronets Dance Club Fall Dance Takes a Latin Twist
Edna Alderman, Carolyn Delk Robert and Sally Stanley, Steve Watkins and Marsha, Don Hire
Beatty and P.A. Carmichael
Anne England and Dell Bradford, Carolyn and Jim Delk, P.A. and Beaty Carmichael, Marsha and Don Hire, Marsha and Buford McCarty, Phyllis and Roye Tinsley, Cathie and John Amos. Also dancing the night away were Rebecca Wingett and Greg Green, Beth and Charles Glisson, Tammy
and Rick Towns, India and Bill Askew, Carol and Phillip Powell, Cindy and Jim Bartlett, Kathy and Bob Tracy, Nelle Freeman and Jack Mandel, Edna and Ken Alderman, Linda and Spencer Bachus, Dianne and Richard Horn, Peggy Wilson, Kathleen Moore, Kathy and James Courtland, Ashley and Troy Carmichael, Cheree and Eric Carlton, and Shelly and Steve Watkins. ❖
Phillip and Carol Powell and Cathie and John Amos
Richard and Diane Horn, Marsha and Buford McCarty
Spencer and Linda Bachus, Rick Towns
Fine Jewelry & Collectibles Fine Jewelry & Art FINE DESIGNER JEWELRY WALLACE -BURKE
1811 29th Avenue S. Homewood LOCAL ARTISTS & FURNITURE RESTORATION
wallace-burke.com
1811 29th. Avenue S. Homewood wallace-burke.com 205-874-1044
Roman BRantley
aRt, antiques, Gifts & DecoR
Looking forward to seeing you during the holidays Store Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11am-4pm, or by appointment
2790 BM Montgomery Street • Homewood, AL • 205.460.1224
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Dinner and A Bet
SOCIAL
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 21
Casino for a Cause Blends Social Event and Fundraising The Alabama Chapter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation held its annual Casino for a Cause last month to support the foundation. The event included a cocktail reception, dinner, a program on the foundation’s mission, an auction and gaming at Haven. ❖
Alice Anderson, Melissa Elson, Stephanie Gunner, Winnie and Charles O Elson, Melissa and John Elson
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Imagine your home, totally organized! Custom Closets, Garage Cabinets, Home Office, Pantries, Laundries Wall Beds, Wall Units, Hobby Rooms, Garage Flooring and more...
Josh and Shannon Dennis, Julie and Drew Cundiff
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Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate
(205) 551-9061 www.closetsbydesign.com
OTMJ
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL • TOY STORY • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023 • PAGE 22
Top Toys
OTM Toy Experts Talk About the Year’s Best Bets
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STORY BY ANNE RUISI * PHOTOS BY JORDAN WALD
anta isn’t the only one making a list and checking it twice. Over the Mountain shoppers seeking great gift ideas for the young ones should look at these suggestions from our friends at Homewood Toy & Hobby and Snoozy’s/george in Mountain Brook. Please note that toy selections and prices may vary from store to store.
Tricia McCain says Ring Ring Phone Bag by BeWaltz, is the cutest and coolest purse that actually works as a phone. She also likes Granite Grom 4WD Remote Control Car by Arrma.
George Jones says the Santa’s Kindness Ornament is intended to hang on a holiday tree with a QR code that “unlocks” a special video message from Santa.
TRICIA McCAIN, HOMEWOOD TOY & HOBBY
GEORGE JONES, SNOOZY’S/GEORGE
Do you have any tips for shoppers who are navigating the 2023 holiday shopping season?
Do you have any tips for shoppers who are navigating the 2023 holiday shopping season?
Every year, I tell shoppers to shop as early as possible for any must-have items. Shipping with most of our distributors is running on schedule but, the closer it gets to December, they will slow down and items will become unavailable. Also, in-store gift wrapping will have a much (shorter) wait time if you aren’t shopping at the last minute.
What new toys today look like they will be classics and around for another 25 years or 50 years?
HOMEWOOD TOY & HOBBY is at 2830 18th St. S. in downtown Homewood. For more information, call 205-879-3986 or visit homewoodtoy-hobby. com or the store’s Facebook or Instagram page.
A couple of my favorite toys that I can see becoming classics are Magformer brand Magnetic Blocks and the Spin Again from Fat Brain Toys. Both have been huge sellers in our store since their introductions and don’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon. They both encourage imaginative play and are great for both boys and girls.
TRICIA’S PICKS
My tip for holiday shopping is to shop locally. Often you will find items that are not available for purchase online. Why not have your gift items wrapped (for free) and have the comfort of knowing that you have your gifts in your hands and are not waiting to get a “backorder” or “shipping delay” notification? Plus, the fact that you are supporting a local merchant ensures that local businesses will be here in the future!
What new toys today look like they will be classics and around for another 25 years or 50 years?
Classic toys that defy time typically include our wooden toys. From activity blocks, push/ pull toys and wooden puzzles to prams and beautiful doll houses, their classic, well-built designs are truly meant to be handed down to the next generations. Stuffed animals have also gained a spot as a classic toy. Many times we hear stories of young adults or adults rediscovering their favorite stuffed animal tucked away in a closet or attic and immediately bringing back warm, loving, imaginative thoughts of their childhood.
GEORGE’S PICKS
1. Smart Max My First Dinosaurs, $27.99, extra-large size for small hands, magnetic pieces to match by color to form a dinosaur, or mix and match the colors for your own dinosaur creation. Farm animals, cars, general block shapes also available and compatible. Ages 1 and up.
1. My Pet Pig, My Pet Lamb, $39.99 each, from Little Live Pets, are absolutely adorable walking toys that wiggle their noses and come with a leash and bottle. Ages 3 and up.
2. Fat Brain Toys Spill Again, $44.99, collect the balls and fill the top of the tower, set timer and wait for the balls to crash and roll, then race to scoop them all up again! Ages 2 and up.
2. The Stair Slide, $79.99, is a low slide that can be used alone or with other Stair Slides on interior stairways. The placement of the slide on stairs determines how steep it will be, so even young children can have fun
Continued on page 23
SNOOZY’S KIDS is at 228 Country Club Park in Mountain Brook’s Crestline Village. For more information, call 205871-2662 or visit the store’s Facebook or Instagram page.
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Continued on page 27
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
TRICIA’S PICKS
5. Blinger Kids by Blinger, $29.99, load, click and bling out your hair in seconds with sticker jewels. You can also bling your clothes and accessories. Multiple sets and refill packs are available. Ages 6 and up.
closed. Ages 3 and up. 3. JC Toys Lil’ Cutesies, $34.99, are twin fairy dolls with accessories for them to have a tea party. Ages 2 and up.
2 Hape Store and Go Easel, $29.99, is a travel-size wooden easel with dry erase board and chalkboard that includes all necessary accessories stored inside of the easel when folded
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Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 23
TOY STORY
Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin, $24.99, offers imaginative play with water beads, play sand or dough, and plenty of accessories and various themed play sets for boys and girls. The sets come in a storage bin for easy pick up and mess-free play. Ages 3 and up. 4. Tangle Nightbat & Ball, $29.99, comes with an LED bat and baseball to take your baseball game into the night with this addition to the Nightball line of toys. Ages 6 and up. Ring Ring Phone Bag by BeWaltz, $39.99, is the cutest and coolest purse that actually works as a phone when your cell phone is plugged into the cord hidden inside. It’s great as that unique gift that everyone will love. Ages 10 and up.
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6. Tapple by USAopoly, $19.99, brings you fast word fun and is a great game for a family gift or college-aged kids who love to have game night. Ages 8 and up.
Puzzle by Number Map of the USA, $49.99, lets kids assemble a
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for beginners, with everything included in the box. This truck goes upwards of 30 mph and would be perfect for entry into the hobby for kids and adults. Upgrade parts are available for the true hobbyist. Ages 14 and up.
6 map of the United States using the color-coded pattern sheet and pieces in various colors, over 1,400 in all. It’s great for older kids and adults as well and includes a fact sheet with important information for each state. It can be hung after it is built. Ages 5 and up. 7. Atmospheric Inferno Turbo Racer, $29.99, is the latest engineering kit from Play Steam. Build an airpowered race car from scratch and then watch it go using the included air pump. No batteries are needed. Ages 8 and up. Granite Grom 4WD Remote Control Car by Arrma, $129.99, is a hobby grade RC car that is great
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WAIT, THERE’S MORE! • OTMJ HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE BEGINS ON PAGE 24 • TOP TOYS CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
2830 18th Street South • Homewood • 205.879.3986. • Find us Facebook and Instagram
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023 • PAGE 24
Christmas OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Moose Knuckles “Gold Cambria Vest” from Canada. The brand specializes in lean, tough luxurious sportswear, able to withstand the cold, while still having a flattering and stylish shape. $894. Gus Mayer, 205-870-3300
A
GIFT GUIDE 2023
holiday tradition continues! We’ve asked some of our favorite area merchants, who just happen to be our valued advertisers, to offer a few can’t miss ideas for this Holiday Season. Business is good, people are shopping, so don’t delay, take this list with you and start shopping local today. It’s good for our economy, it’s good for Santa and it’s especially good for those on your list. e
Glory Angel Candle. Our four candles are adorned with a colorful, organically painted angel by southern artist Lauren Dunn. Each candle is hand poured in a beautiful iridescent taupe glass vessel by Crave Candle Company, $60. Bromberg’s Mountain Brook, 205-871-3276 The Summit, 205-969-1776
Sea Lily grey pearl & piano wire necklace $58, Sol & Selene fuchsia woven crossbody $68. Town & Country, (205) 871-7909
Cozy up with Tasc new luxury sleep wear collection. Our New bamboo silk sleepwear will surely be the best gift of the holiday season. Tasc, (659) 599-9240
A set of 15 and festive 9 1/2 ‘ Sterms. Transparent Christmas Green and Gold Stripes with large Bowl. Tricia’s Treasure, 205-871-9779
“Woodford Reserve - Masters Collection” by Dirk Walker original watercolor on paper, 10x8, $450. Beverly McNeil Gallery 205-328-1761
Getting a great, true Champagne for $59.99 is a challenge nowadays. This Gosset is the epitome of elegance and pedigree. From the oldest wine house in all of Champagne, this bubbly will make any occasion a celebration, and it will make any celebration an event. Piggly Wiggly
A great stocking-stuffer for your college student (or soon-to-be college student!). $12.00 richardesimmons3.com
Classic and compact, our Perfect Wallet design has patent leather finishing with simple sew details for polished carrying of your essential cards or cash, $148. Frances Valentine Birmingham, 205-538-5276
Glenwood’s Pecans for Autism have been a holiday staple for more than 40 years. Glenwood, 205-795-3353, glenwood.org/shop
This handsome leather ice bucket is also in a black shagreen, $250 Henhouse Antiques, 205-918-0505
Spinelli Kilcollin Galaxy Rings Available in sterling silver or 14K yellow and rose gold. Stocked in all sizes, starting at $250. Etc...205-871-6747 http://www.shopetcjewelry.com
Decorative Santa riding a Christmas Lamb $47. Attic Antique, 205-991-6887
Thierry Lasry Sunglasses. Handmade in France with authentic Italian acetate, $585 Mountain Brook Eye Care, 205-341-9595
Vintage Holiday Decorations Hanna Antiques Mall & Estate Sales, 205-323-6036
White and yellow gold bracelets, perfect gifts for the holidays, Southeastern Jewelers, 205-980-9030
Red Mountain Theatre tickets are the practically perfect present! Red Mountain Theatre, 205-324-2424. redmountaintheatre.org
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Brass & Glass vase set, $64.00 Baker Lamps and Linens, 205-981-3330
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 25
GIFT GUIDE
Detachable South Sea pearl earring jackets, $1,250 to $2,450. JB & Co., 205-478-0455
Special cookies for the holidays, from 1 to 1000. Starting at $2.75. Cookie Fix, Homewood: 205-582-2623, Cahaba Heights: 205-848-8001
Advent calendar with 25 cards. Selections from Old and New Testament scriptures with the story of the birth of the Christ child. Christine’s on Canterbury, 205-871-8297
Oil lamp by Lynne Killion Pottery. Simply fill it with smokeless, odorless candle oil and watch it burn. No worries about how it smells, $30. The Cook Store, 205-879-5277
EVERY PURCHASE SUPPORTS CHILDREN & ADULTS WITH AUTISM!
“White Poppies in Bloom” by Maya Eventov, 24”X24” acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, $1,890. Griffith Art Gallery, 205-985-7969
Eyeglasses by Henau, Traditional craftsmanship with a certain uniqueness, for people who love shapes, structure and colours, $460. iii’s An Optical Shop, 205-930-9394
Holiday Big Green Egg deal: Large Big Green Egg, large table nest, large Acacia table, bag of charcoal, ConvEGGtor, ash tool and ash pan, $1,859.95. Hollywood Outdoor Living, 205-979-7727
ON SALE NOW - GET YOURS TODAY!
WWW.GLENWOOG.ORG/SHOP
JD Landscaping Complete Landscape Maintenance
Holiday ligths, diamond earrings, necklace and bracelet. Shay’s Jewelry, 205-978-5880
Made with lightweight flannel, Eberjey knows how to make the most comfortable, luxuriously soft sleepwear that will make your holiday brighter. The Lingerie Shop, 205-871-8994
The Aroma of the Season, “Nest Holiday” Mantooth Interiors is your home for all Nest collections. Holiday is stocked - wrapped and the perfect gift for friends and family. Tis the season…to fill your home with holiday scents. Mantooth Interiors, 205-879-5474
Christmas Lights Installation! Mention this ad and get 10% OFF!!! Gift Basket, customize it with any spices or products you want or add a gift card. Sexton’s Seafood, 205-967-3437
Yard Maintenance
Tree Planting
Hedge Trimming
Stump Removal
Pressure Washing
Pine Straw Mulching Retaining Walls
Shrub Removal
Underbrush Removal Bobcat Work
Top Soil & Sod Work Yard Grading Shrub Planting
Birmingham Zoo Family Membership: Enjoy your Zoo allyear-long! $150 2 adults and up to 6 children (ages 2-17). Birmingham Zoo, 205-879-0409
The new Metallic Series brings all around color with lasting durability of a high-heat Ceramic coating to Solo fire pits. Little Hardware, 205-871-4616
Cross Tie Work
Call, Text or Email Today!!! Jonathan Stockton 205-907-8372 jdstockton92@att.net
26 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
One 14K white gold multi-color rose cut rough diamond and 2 1/2 carat total weight diamond ring. Wallace-Burke, 205-874-1044
You will sleep cooler, have better skin and hair on these antibacterial, 100% mulberry silk pillowcases. Game changer! Marguerite’s Conceits, 205-879-2730.
GIFT GUIDE
Squeaky doors to leaky faucets and gutter cleaning...Help out someone you love, a friend or family with a gift certificate from TruBlue Home Service Ally - Home Maintenance $100, 205- 601-5265
Wow Product Line. Our favorite Product Line of the year, seals out humidity and gives voluminous hair. Salon Summit, 205-518-0406.
Engraved Paige Pendant with the Wesley Necklace features your monogram custom engraved in a circle block font. The back of this pendant is able to be engraved as well, from $160 (pendant only). Ex Voto, 205-538-7301
The Cali Backpack from So Danca’s Tiler Peck Collection is spacious with plenty of compartments to organize all your dance essentials. $48. Applause Dancewear, 205-871-7837.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Davenport’s Pizza Palace gift cards make great gifts or stocking stuffers! They can be purchased online at DavenportsPizza.com or at their Vestavia and Mountain Brook locations.
This beautiful White Gold Diamond and Emerald Pendant will make someone’s holidays even happier. Levy’s, 205-251-3381; Levy’s at Gus Mayer, 205-870-9477
Elizabeth W Vetiver linen water spray. Infuse fabrics with the green, clean scent of Vetiver, $30. B. Prince, 205-871-1965 Anemone Barbie Doll designed by the wizard of fabulous footwear, famed designer Christian Louboutin, $225. Mary Charles Doll House, 205-870-5544
Handcrafted Christmas tree by local artist, 45 inches tall. Vintage Interiors, 205-620-1900.
A gift that shines. Choose a Michele timepiece designed to fit her signature style and last a lifetime. Barton-Clay, 205-871-7060
Fuzzy Footies, one size fits most. Great Stocking Stuffer or “Oops” I forgot to get her something. $12.99. Flip Flop & What Nots, 205-967-7429
Halo Versa 16 Outdoor Pizza Oven reaches 950°F cooking temperature in 12 minutes and can cook up to 16” pizza in 5 minutes or less, $549. Allsouth Appliance, 205-942-0408
These affordable and adorable bracelet stacks also work as the best hair ties. Girls ages 8 to 88 love them! Lose the boring hair tie on your wrists and grab K’Lei today! Second Hand Rose, (205) 970-7997.
Happy SHOP
Beautiful large handmade 12 piece Nativity Set, $1,195. Steeds Jewelers, 205-822-9173.
Cotton striped hat with Pompom - this knit hat is a wonderful accesory for any outfit! $52 includes name, 6-12 mo. Monograms on 4th, 888-874-8778
Signed Bronze piece by renowned Alabama artist Frank Fleming Roman Brantley, 205-460-1224.
LOCAL
Holidays!
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
GEORGE’S PICKS
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 27
TOY STORY 9. Spider RC, $59.99 This metal alloy vehicle has the weight and feel of a futuristic hobby grade car, including diagonal and sideways movement. It’s very fast, Jones said, heavy duty and tough! Ages 8 and up. Barbie, $14.99, never grows old and remains a beloved doll. This year the Barbie Cutie Reveal, $49.99, is an advent calendar with a doll and one accessory to find each day behind a numbered door. Ages 3 and up.
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11. Marvin’s Magic, $6.99-$30, is a line of magic kits for kids who want to learn card and other magic tricks to entertain their families, friends and themselves. Snoozy’s Kids stocks a large number of kits, including Marvin’s Amazing Magic Tricks, that offer enough tricks to put on a complete show. Ages 6 and up.
when it’s placed on the lowest step for a gentle glide. Ages 3 and up.
4. Drench, $24.99, is a new game that calls for two or more players. Players take turns shaking a plastic can filled with water that looks like a Sprite or 7Up soda can and try to avoid getting sprayed by the mist. The last player to stay dry wins. Ages 8 and up.
7. Tonies, characters start at $15.99, Toniebox is $99.99, are always popular with kids and come with free headphones. The interchangeable characters tell stories and sing songs when placed atop the softsided, storytelling audio Toniebox. New characters this year include the charming Angelina Ballerina. Ages 3 and up. 8. Air Hunterz, $32.99, is a crossbow-like toy that shoots soft projectiles. Ages 14 and up. Monster Jamz, $18.99-$169.99, and other larger-scale trucks and vehicles are always popular toys left under the tree. Ages 4 and up. WOW Toys, $17-$60, with items like monster trucks and planes, are unbreakable and don’t need batteries. Ages 1-5
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Holiday Hours
Madame Alexander Nutcracker Queen
Pickleball Set, $59.99. Designed for kids, this set will help them enjoy America’s fastest-growing sport. Ages 6 and up. Santa’s Kindness Ornament,
Open Tue. - Sat., starting 11/29 Open Mon. - Sat., starting 12/12$39.99. Intended to hang on a holiday tree, this special ornament contains a Closed Chritmas Eve
5. Toodles, $19.99. Drawing with a shared marker and without talking, partners try to draw an object together that can be identified by the other players. Ages 8 and up. 6. The Fuzzies, $14.99, is a Jenga-like game in which players build a tower using small puff balls of colorful fuzz. “It’s nice, small and quiet,” Jones said. Ages 6 and up.
Dissect It, $16.99, is a simulated dissection lab featuring a transparent piranha, salamander or frog in separate kits. The dissection tools are not sharp and children can learn about organ systems and bone structure in each animal. Ages 6 and up.
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10. Lego, $4.99 and up, is a perennial favorite with kits geared to most ages. New this year are Lego City, ages 4 and up, and Lego Speed and Lego Technic, both for ages 2 and up.
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3. Bill Nye’s VR Science Kit, $59.99, also comes in VR Atlas and VR Dinosaur editions. The Science Kit comes with 30 hands-on experiments and virtual reality goggles so young science enthusiasts can work on the experiments with Nye via internet videos. Ages 8 and up..
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Magna-Tiles, $49.99 and up, are colorful and transparent magnetic tiles in many shapes with unlimited artistic possibilities. Jones said it’s one of the best rule-free toys around. Ages 3 and up.
decorative QR code that can be scanned by phone or tablet in the days leading up Christmas to unlock a special video message from Santa. Ages 4 and up. Friendship Bracelets, $14.99 and up. Girls love the kind of friendship bracelets Taylor Swift sports, with beads spelling out words like “friendship” and “kindness.” It’s a trend her fans adore and demand has really soared. Ages 6 and up.
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Acrylic on
Mary Charles' Doll House Dolls, Doll Houses and Miniatures 1901 Oxmoor Rd. | Homewood 205-870-5544
Spa Accessories, $2.99 and up, To:the store Mary Charles are in a section of dedicated From: Over the Mountain Journal to pampering, such as satin pillowcas823-9646 es, bath bombs and a makeup mirror ph, 824-1246 fax November 2022 with bright LEDDate: lights and a cell phone charging station on the base. This is your ad proof for the OTMJ for the Dec. 1 ssue. Please contact your Ages 6 and up. your ad or make changes
by Maya Eventov all information is correct, includin premier make sureAcrylic Jellycat, $15 and up, is a Please line of super soft stuffed animals designed in London. One of this year’s new models is Otto, a If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before th dachshund, or “sausage dog,” Thank you for your promp outfitted in a Santa hat and cape. He also has his own book. All ages.
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109 Hilltop Business Drive Pelham www.GriffithArtGallery.com 205.985.7969
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28 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Mark Your Calendars! HOLIDAY IN THE HILLS
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
On Nov. 28 during a festival beginning at 6 p.m., the tree at Vestavia Hills City Hall will be lit and Santa will be visiting, along with performances by Vestavia Hills City Schools choirs and dancers, merchant booths and giveaways. The tree at Vestavia City Center will be lit during the All is Bright festival. Set to begin Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m., the festival will include music, photos with Santa and kids’ activities. The city’s Holiday Parade and Party in the Park will be the following day, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. at Liberty Park. Breakfast with Santa will be Dec. 9 at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center, and the city’s Menorah Lighting will follow Dec. 14 at 5:30 p.m. at city hall.
HOMEWOOD FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Here Come the Holidays! Mountain Brook’s Villages to Hold Parades, Open Houses for Families and Shoppers
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hroughout the holiday season, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce and local merchants will host open house events that provide festive community activities and encourage gift givers to shop local. Crestline Village’s Holiday Open House will kick things off Nov. 16. Participating merchants will offer discounts and special activities from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Even Santa Claus may be stopping by again this year for pictures. The highly anticipated Mountain Brook Village Open House will take place Nov. 30
mtnbrookchamber.org
from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with discounted prices and special events. The Mountain Brook Holiday Parade will take place Dec. 3 at 3 p.m., beginning at Mountain Brook Office Park, traveling down Cahaba Road and concluding with the arrival of Santa Claus atop a Mountain Brook Fire Department truck. Famed runaway goat Billy the Kid will be grand marshal. The holiday community events culminate with the English Village Open House on Dec. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit mtnbrookchamber.org.
The City of Homewood will celebrate its annual Lighting of the Star in conjunction with the Homewood Christmas Parade on Dec. 5. The event will begin with the lighting of the historic Homewood Star over 18th St., followed by the parade at 6:30 p.m. and the lighting of the Christmas Tree at City Hall. New this year, Breakfast with Santa, includes breakfast, crafts, activities, and a complimentary photo with Santa. Saturday, Dec. 16 from 9-10 a.m. at Samford Universtiy Rotunda Club.
HOOVER ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Hoover’s official start of their holiday season takes place on Nov. 28 at 5 p.m. at Hoover City Hall main parking lot and includes Hoover City School band and choir performances, the lighting of the tree by a Hoover student and Santa’s grand entrance on a fire truck, ready for pictures.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
Bromberg’s
Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers Since 1987, Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers has been the premier jeweler in Birmingham, Alabama. “We are a family-owned and operated business with over 50 years of experience,” said owner Eric McClain, abov,e with wife Jill and son Ryan. “Our friendly and professional staff work to provide quality services and products at reasonable prices. “We’re very excited to be in our new location in Lane Parke, just in time for your holiday shopping,” Eric said. Barton-Clay has recently added some great new brands, such as Michele and Tissot watches. You’ll also find diamond necklaces, bracelets, earrings - yellow gold jewelry, Longines and Hamilton watches.
Barton-Clay is the only authorized Mont Blanc dealer in the state.
“We are a family-owned and operated business with over 50 years of experience.” Eric McClain
“We offer customizable men’s and women’s wedding rings by Lashbrook,’ Eric said. Barton-Clay has a full-time designer/craftsman, as well as a full-time jeweler. Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers is located at 330 Rele St., 205-871-7060
Gift of for Time Time chrisTmas!
Make every single moment count. Commemorate special moments with the gift of a timeless Tissot timepiece.
330 Rele Street in Lane Parke | Mountain Brook Village 205.871.7060 | bartonclay.com
“Continuing a long-time tradition, we are looking forward to the lighting of our Village Christmas Tree,” said Ricky Bromberg, President of Bromberg’s. This year’s tree has arrived and will be lit the day after Thanksgiving, November 24th. “Our 30-foot Fraser Fir tree is brought down from North Carolina each year before Thanksgiving. You may have seen the crane required to stand the tree up on the lawn in front of our Mountain Brook store while driving through the Village. It takes up to three days just to add the beautiful combination of approximately 30,000 white and colored lights to the tree, which stay lit through New Year’s Eve. “To our delight, we have seen many people stop to enjoy the Bromberg’s Village Christmas Tree over the years,” said Bromberg. “We have also noticed the numerous photos posted to social media in front of the tree. Stopping for photos with the tree seems to have become a holiday tradition for many families, couples, and friends.” Bromberg’s will be holding our annual #BrombergsTree photo contest again! We encourage anyone who posts a picture or video with our beautiful tree on social media to use the hashtag #BrombergsTree and tag us in your post. Simply tag @BrombergsWatch on Instagram or @BrombergsJeweler on Facebook. All tagged posts with the tree and that hashtag will be automatically entered into a drawing to win a $500 Bromberg’s gift certificate. People without a social media presence who would like to enter the contest can email a photo in front of the tree to contact@brombergs.com with the words “Bromberg’s Tree” in the subject line. The prize will be awarded on Christmas Eve!
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 29
Bromberg’s Mountain Brook is located at 2800 Cahaba Rd., 205-871-3276. The Summit location is at 131 Summit Blvd., 205-969-1776. You can also shop online at www.brombergs. com.
30 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
The Cook Store
Christine’s on Canterbury
Christine’s on Canterbury, nestled just According to Jean Clayton, owner, “You behind Gilchrist on Canterbury Road, is filled won’t be disappointed in the quality and with new gift selections. charm of this year’s selection.” Chocolates, popThis year corn, candles, fraChristine’s takes on After shopping Europe’s large grances, and frames a very European look with ornaments from markets, Christine’s is introducing are year round staples for gift giving, England, Germany, the charm and artistry of but for Poland, and Italy. the Christmas seaAfter shopping handmade ornaments. son the selection Europe’s large marexpands exponenkets, Christine’s is introducing the charm and artistry of handtially. Gift wrap is always free at Christine’s. made ornaments. Add to your collection or The Holiday Open House is Nov. 30, from start a tradition for someone on your gift list. 4-8 p.m. Wendt & Kuhn is celebrating 100 years of Christine’s on Canterbury is located at the eleven-dot angel. Special editions for this 2404 Canterbury Rd., 205-871-8297. occasion are available only this year.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
The Cook Store is a kitchen specialty shop featuring functional pottery, pots, pans and gadgets for cooking and entertaining. “The Cook Store has been a fixture in Mountain Brook since 1975,” said owner Wesley Lassen, with shop dog Lucy, pictured. The Cook Store exclusively carries pottery skillets and sauce pans from The Pottery Works that are stovetop safe on both gas or electric cooktops. The store also offers kitchen linens, bakeware, cookware and more. “You can choose from Le Creuset non-stick cookware, USA Pan bakeware, Wusthof knives and pottery from local potters Tena Payne of Earthborn Studios and Gidge Black,” she said. “We are looking forward to a crazy holiday season of selling, selling, selling and wrapping, wrapping and more wrapping. We have lots of great gift ideas for the person who has everything and the person who doesn’t have enough. Come check out our pottery, great gadgets, wood, holiday towels, melamine serving pieces and dishes and lots more gift items. Our Holiday Open House is Nov. 30, 4-6 p.m. Visit us at thecookstoremtnbrook.com and be sure to check out our Instagram at thecookstore.” The Cook Store is located at 2841 Cahaba Rd. in Mountain Brook Village, 205-879-5277.
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
From the artisans at Wendt & Kühn come the creations of our all time favorite cherubic angels. Select from the orchestra or the charming figures to clip on your tree or garland.
Nov. 30th, 4 - 6 p.m
Get ready for the holidays with the JOIN US!
fragrant scent of Noble Fir. Available in candles and botanicals.
FANOULA GULAS comes from a Greek family that had large gatherings with traditional Greek foods, so she learned early about the love of family, food and hospitality. After marrying into a large Greek family, the Gulases, known for their restaurants, she perfected some of the recipes that had been passed down for generations. Fanoula is bringing Greek pastries!
C hristine’s Canterbury
BROOKE BELL is the vice president of culinary and custom content at Hoffman Media, where she oversees the editorial teams of Bake from Scratch, Southern Cast Iron, Taste of the South, Louisiana Cookin’, and Cooking with Paula Deen as well as the test kitchen, custom content development, and cookbooks. Brooke will be signing her "Holiday Coupetails" book!
REBECCA DENSON Originally from South India (Bengaluru, Karnataka), Rebecca grew up in a family of community organizers/ builders (with an abundance of love, flavorful food, multiple languages, mini cultures, and a lot of delicious mangos) and since childhood has had a desire for creating intentional belonging. Rebecca is bringing her Sachai Tea!
on
2404 Canterbury Road • 205-871-8297
2841 Cahaba Road | Mtn. Brook Village 205-879-5277 | M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-4 thecookstoremtnbrook.com
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ExVoto Vintage Jewelry
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
JB & Co.
Private Jeweler, John Bromberg maintains a return to an old-world artisan approach to fine jewelry. In an industry that is increasingly focused on mass production, JB & CO chooses
Elizabeth Adams, right, created ExVoto in 2009 after losing her youngest daughter to a brain tumor. ExVoto is a timeless lifestyle brand elevating every day living, and a portion of every sale goes to pediatric brain cancer research.
John Bromberg is a sixthgeneration GIA trained jeweler with memberships in the prestigious Diamond Dealers’ Club of New York and The American Society of Jewelry Historians.
Personalized, hand engraving or machine engraving is available for many items, making ExVoto a great source for memorable and meaningful gifts. Uniting powerful stories from the past and present, ExVoto is a lifestyle brand celebrating timeless craftsmanship in jewelry and ladies apparel and building meaningful relationships through conversational pieces. ExVoto takes vintage jewelry elements and gives them a new story. Personalized, hand engraving or machine engraving is available for many jewelry styles, making ExVoto a great source for memorable and meaningful gifts. When it comes to apparel, they select speciality apparel from emerging, female-founded brands with a commitment to high quality craftsmanship and ethical working conditions. In the past few years, they have expanded their apparel, shoes, and handbag selection, while working closely with designers to offer unique and exclusive styles. ExVoto is proud to be a member of The
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 31
Female Founder Collective; an organization led by Rebecca Minkoff, that networks businesses led by women, to support women. Their Birmingham shop is located in Mountain Brook Village, and in the past year has moved just down Canterbury Road to a space 3 times larger than before! You can order online with in-store pickup and free gift wrap, even same-day pickup on select items! ExVoto is located at 2416 Canterbury Road, 205-538-7301.
to focus on the unique, with specialties that include bridal, custom, estate and antique jewelry. At a time when individual service and privacy is of the utmost importance, Bromberg personally works with his clients to select or create just the right piece for the occasion, always adhering to their style and budget. Whether it is a diamond engagement ring, a special piece for your day or repurposing your jewelry into a new heirloom, JB & CO can help you. His collection of estate jewelry comes from the finest jewelry houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany, Verdura, as well as, designers Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany, Ilias Lalounis, Pierre Sterle’, Elizabeth Locke, Katy Briscoe, Chopard and Ippolita. John also has a select collection of coveted watches from Cartier, Patek Philippe and Rolex. John Bromberg is a sixth-generation GIA trained jeweler with memberships in the prestigious Diamond Dealers’ Club of New York and
The American Society of Jewelry Historians. John’s longstanding relationship offers the unique opportunity for his clients to purchase fine jewelry at an exceptional value. JB & CO was named “The Best Jeweler” in Birmingham. For the full JB & CO experience, we recommend making an appointment. “Collect with us,” says Bromberg. JB & Co. is located at 1 Office Park Circle, Suite 201, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. 205478-0455. Website: www.JBandCoJewelry.com Instagram: @ JBandCoJewelryMountainBrookAL Facebook: JBandCoJewelry
Voted “Best Jeweler in Birmingham” JohnBromberg@JBandCoJewelry.com For Appointment: 205.478.0455 | JBandCoJewelry.com
32 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
B. Prince
Tasc Born from a deep love of sport and an authentic drive to do what’s right, the family-run Tasc Performance company maintains one goal: to create the best activewear in the world, for the world. After a successful first year of Tasc in Mountain Brook, we are excited for future seasons and the expansion of our brand. Tasc is unlike your ordinary workout brand. With “their natural fabrics and a combination of unique blends and fibers,” says Mary Glen Carlton, store manager, Tasc will surely become your new favorite store. Tasc takes pride in using “organic cotton or merino wool with viscose from bamboo” to create fabric that “feels amazing, is durable, and performs better than the common synthetic fabrics.”
Tasc proudly offers full lines of both Men’s and Women’s stylish and comfortable activewear. With the seasons changing and Christmas quickly approaching, stop in to find our new styles and gifts for everyone on your list. Our brand new Men’s and Women’s Response Packable Puffer Vest is the perfect top layering piece, with its fleece pockets guaranteed to keep you warm! And even better, it comes in a jacket too! Get into the Holiday spirit with Tasc’s Holiday Happy Hour on November 30th! Come enjoy some refreshments while getting a head start on Christmas shopping! We’ll see you soon! Tasc Performance is located at 370 Rele St., Mountain Brook, 659-599-9240.
Bezshan Dolatabadi, right, is the owner of B. Prince in Lane Parke. “Being in Lane Parke is wonderful and we love being a part of the Mountain Brook shopping experience,” Bezshan said. B. Prince is a relationship-built boutique catering to people with unique taste. “We consider our customers family and close friends and we dress and accessorize them for all of their important events as well as everyday life!” Bezshan said. Bezshan travels all over the world to find fashion that captures current trends and fits in with client’s tastes and lifestyle. He just returned from Paris and the store is full of all kinds of Paris “finds”. “On Nov. 20, join us for Open House from 5-7 p.m., with live music, wine and food. “Be sure to also shop with us online at Shopbprince.com and follow us on Instagram @b.princebham” B. Prince is located at 271 Rele St., Lane Park, 205-871-1965.
The Lingerie Shoppe
The Lingerie Shoppe, Inc was established in 1946. The focus of the Shoppe has never strayed from the commitment to provide the highest quality, not the most expensive, in undergarments, bridal lingerie and sleepwear. It has been our privilege to serve generations of women and those who shop for them. The entire staff at The Lingerie Shoppe enjoys the many facets of our shop--from selecting and purchasing the offerings to helping the many customers/friends find the right fit in a bra or the perfect gift for someone they love. Giftwrapping is a signature service. “We often hear, ‘There has to be Lingerie Shoppe wrapped packages under our tree,’said store owner Brenda Meadows, above. Brides recognize the wrapping at bachelorette parties. “We are looking forward to sharing this shopping season with our wonderful customers and friends.” The Lingerie Shoppe is located at 2403 Montevallo Rd, (205) 871-8994
THE LINGERIE SHOPPE
Please Join Us!
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE November 30th, 2023
2403 MONTEVALLO ROAD | MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE 205-871-8994
Join us Nov. 30th for the Mountain Brook Village Holiday Open House!
Johnny Was is giving us lots of “bear love” this season! Come get yours!
271 Rele Street • Lane Parke Mountain Brook • 205-871-1965 www.shopbprince.com
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 33
Photos by Hank Spencer
SCHOOLS
SPARTANS From page 36
ward.” Alice Garzon, one of six seniors on the team, remembered her coaching, saying that the squad was “forged by fire.” “I don’t know what that means,” Garzon said, presuming that it meant that they had been tested by fire. “We knew we had experienced a set like that where we came back or we lost the third set and then we had to come back extra strong.” Going into the fourth set, Garzon said, “we basically had the upper hand and we needed to use it again to our advantage to beat them.” Ron Ingram, director of communications for the Alabama High School Athletic Association, explained that the strongest sword is forged by fire. Mountain Brook proved its mettle against the inferno of Bayside Academy in a semifinal of the Elite Eight. The current Admirals had never in their lives known a season that didn’t end with a Bayside state championship. Bayside had won a national record 21 straight state titles before Mountain Brook ended that streak with a 15-13 match-deciding fifth set on Halloween. “We slayed the giant at that semifinal match,” Gardner said. “Sometimes a team … can kind of come in complacent after that. But our girls, they do their best when they’re low stress and high comfort.” The match with Bayside was as much mental as it was physical. It was the rubber match between the two teams, and Mountain Brook had to fend off feelings that what had happened 21 years in a row – including when Bayside beat them in the Elite Eight semifinals last season – would happen again. But there was no anxiety going into a final against Saraland, a team Mountain Brook would face for the first time. “My girls, they work best when they just go out and play and there’s not that mental foothold that a team might have on them,” Gardner said.
cookmuseum.org
Top: Members of the Mountain Brook High School state championship volleyball team. Above: from left, Annie Lacey, Hannah Parant, and Alice Garzon. Left: Hannah Parant, far left, was named the most valuable player of the Class 6A Elite Eight. She was joined on the alltournament team by teammates Alice Garzon, left, and Ella Kate Wright, not pictured.
“They were able to come in just ready, ready to take it.” Garzon paced the Mountain Brook attack with 15 kills. Hannah Parant had 35 assists, 10 digs and 10 kills, while Annie Lacey had 10 kills. Ella Kate Wright had 26 digs, Paige Parant had 11 digs and Mae Mae Beatty, 10. Beatty and Lacey were in on six blocks apiece. Saraland got 10 kills from Hannah Pearce and 30 assists from Sophia Saxon. Bre Hughes paced the Spartans from Mobile Bay with 15 digs. Hannah Parant was named the most valuable player of the Class 6A
Elite Eight. She was joined on the alltournament team by teammates Garzon and Wright, and Saraland’s Charli Pearce, Hannah Pearce and Hughes. “It means so much because of these girls,” Gardner said of the half dozen players who flanked her as she faced media after the final match. “We have six seniors, 14 total (players) on the team. I normally never carry that many girls, but I chose those 14 on purpose. They each contribute something to our success, and they are 100% bought in since we started all the way on Aug. 1 and we’re finishing it in a storybook manner.”
Indian Springs School
Grades 8-12 | Day & Boarding #1 Private High School in Alabama One of the Top 100 Private Schools in America JOIN US FOR AN ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE! SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 2:00 - 4:00 P.M. Learn more & register www.indiansprings.org/admission admission@indiansprings.org 205.332.0563
34 • Thursday, November 16, 2023
SPORTS
By Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
Week by Week
Spartans Set for Clash With Clay-Chalkville After Opening Round Playoff Rout
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Garrett Morris, an original member of the Saturday Night Live cast, had a recurring bit in which he portrayed Chico Escuela, a fictitious former allstar baseball player from the Dominican Republic. Chico’s signature phrase was, “Baseball been berry, berry good to me.” The same could be said of Mountain Brook High School football and the Spartans’ move from Class 7A to Class 6A. Being in Class 6A has been “berry, berry good” to Mountain Brook since it moved to Class 6A in 2020. Coach Chris Yeager’s teams reached back-to-back Class 6A semifinals in 2020 and 2021 before earning the red state runner-up trophy as a finalist in 2022. Mountain Brook began its latest playoff by routing visiting Buckhorn 35-14 last Thursday at Spartan Stadium. Mountain Brook led 28-0 at intermission en route to victory. Yeager said underclassmen have played key roles in helping his team overcome the loss of veterans sidelined by injuries. “We’ve had some injuries and we’ve got a lot of young guys that are playing now,” Yeager said, adding that sophomores are no longer sophomores at this time of year. “They’re juniors. In order to make a deep run, No. 1, your young players are going to have to grow up and provide depth and provide quality playing time now.” Wide receiver Clark Sanderson has been hurt and Mountain Brook’s two starting guards are hurt. The team had five sophomores and two juniors in on offense at the very end of the game and, Yeager said, they were functioning well. “I think the ingredients are there,” he said. “The ingredients are there. We’ve just got to bring it all together.”
Five Over the Mountain teams traveled for the first round of the state football playoffs last Friday, and four proved to be road warriors. Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Briarwood and John Carroll all advanced to the second round, but Homewood saw its season end in heartbreaking fashion. Bucs Come Back in Second Half
Hoover (5-6) scored on its first five possessions of the second half to erase a nine-point halftime deficit and post a 42-16 victory at James Clemens (7-4) in Madison in a Class 7A first-round game. The Bucs trailed 16-7 at halftime and had only 46 yards total offense. “Kudos to them, they came out and gave us something new the entire first half, something we had not seen,” Hoover coach Wade Waldrop said. “Our kids handled it well. Nobody was upset or panicking at halftime. It was just come out, execute and do what we do in the second half. It was good response by our kids.”
Spartan quarterback John Cooper completed six of 15 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns. He also had seven carries for 47 yards.
A poorly kept secret of Mountain Brook’s success has been the durability of running back Cole Gamble. “Golly Bob, I just can’t believe how that guy just keeps on and on and on and on, carrying this football team,” Yeager said. “I don’t know how he does it,”
quarterback John Cooper added. “Just carrying the ball (nearly) every play. He’s a tough dude.” Gamble had 24 carries for 183 yards and three rushing touchdowns and added a fourth TD on an 80-yard pass from Cooper. Gamble admitted that he did get
tired early in the season. “I feel like I get in better shape as the season goes on,” Gamble said. “I feel like I’m in pretty good shape right now.” Cooper completed six of 15 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns. He also had seven carries for 47 yards.
PLAYOFFS RECAP
Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Briarwood and John Carroll Advance in State Football Playoffs Sophomore Jonah Winston sparked the comeback, passing for two touchdowns and running 17 yards for another. He threw a 32-yard TD pass to Amari Towns in the third quarter and a 9-yard scoring strike to Fredrick Dunson midway through the fourth. For Waldop, in his second season as the Bucs’ head coach, it was a sweet homecoming, of sorts. He spent eight seasons as James Clemens’ coach, from 2013 to 2020. Hoover has reached the playoffs for 24 consecutive seasons and won all 24 first-round games. The Bucs will visit Region 3 rival Hewitt-Trussville (8-3) in the second round. The Huskies routed Bob Jones 56-14 in the first round. Hewitt beat Hoover 28-7 during the regular sea-
son. Vestavia Hills a Head Above
Senior quarterback John Paul Head continued his brilliant season, leading Vestavia Hills (9-2) to a 38-17 Class 7A first-round win at Austin (8-3) in Decatur. Head ran 17 times for 83 yards and two touchdowns and completed 11 of 22 passes for 125 yards and a score. He threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Keown Richardson in the second quarter to tie the score 14-14. Richardson finished with eight receptions for 114 yards. Owen Simpson kicked a 49-yard field goal on the final play of the first half to put the Rebels ahead 17-14 at halftime.
With the score tied 17-17, Head scored on a 15-yard run midway through the third quarter to give the Rebels the lead for good, 24-17. William Tonsmeire rushed for 133 yards and two touchdowns, 68 and 15 yards, on 13 carries for the Rebels. Vestavia Hills will visit Thompson (9-1) in the second round. Thompson routed Florence 42-0 in the first round. The Rebels lost 21-3 to the Warriors during the regular season. “We go to Alabaster and we can’t wait to get there,” Vestavia Hills coach Robert Evans said. “This is the fourth time we’ve played them in two years. We’ve been close in second halves, and we’ve got to find a way to get over the hump. But they’re an outstanding team and they’re the fourtime defending champ for a reason.”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
“John Cooper made some good decisions,” Yeager said, “and (senior receiver) Hudson Young stepped in and made some quality plays.” While it seems nitpicky to find fault in a 21-point victory, Cooper acknowledged that the Spartans could have played better against Buckhorn. “We kind of got too over ourselves and we didn’t finish well,” he said. “From dropped balls to penalties, (there are things) we’ve just got to work on.” Yeager said his defense came out with a very strong start against Buckhorn. He said the two secondhalf Bucks scores could have been the result of human nature. “A lot of times you’re sitting there trying to protect a lead,” Yeager said. “You get the mentality or frame of mind that we’re trying to protect the lead. It should never be that but it’s just hard to keep people from having that. “We tell them to just fight their guts out to the very end, until the clock shows zeroes across the board. I think sometimes it’s human nature to protect a lead, but you should never do that.” Mountain Brook (8-3) will visit top-ranked Clay-Chalkville (10-0) Friday in the second round. The Cougars rolled to a 49-6 victory over Cullman (5-6) in the first round. Cooper believes this Mountain Brook team has what it takes to make another deep playoff run. “We’ve got a lot of fight in us,” Cooper said. “We’ve just got to keep on fighting, finish games and just play as hard as we can. We can make it as far as we want to, I believe.” Gamble agreed. “I don’t see why not,” Gamble said. “We’re just taking it a week at a time. We’re going to have a tough opponent (this) week. I’m excited for it. We’re just taking it week by week.”
Defense Lifts Lions
Briarwood Christian (6-5) used a suffocating and opportunistic defense for a 25-0 shutout of CarverMontgomery (7-4) in a Class 6A firstround game in a driving rain at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. Luke Reynolds intercepted two passes and blocked a punt to spearhead the Lions’ dominating defensive performance. The Lions returned to the playoffs after having their streak of 29 consecutive appearances snapped in 2022. They scored all of their points in the first quarter. “We knew Carver was a stout defensive team and we knew they had some offensive weapons,” Briarwood coach Matthew Forester said. “So it was, ‘Hey, everybody is 0-0. There is no more state champion, everything is last year, there is now a tournament set to figure out who the state champion will be. We’ve got just as good a shot as half of 6A, because we’re playing in the tournament.’” See FOOTBALL, page 35
Thursday, November 16, 2023 • 35
SPORTS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
CROSSCOUNTRY From page 36
things to come. “I wanted this season to be a defining season for me in cross-country and track, and this meet was the precursor,” she said.
Other Champs
Vestavia Hills senior Henry Strand and John Carroll Catholic senior Arthur Langley joined Levering as individual state champions. Strand won the day’s tightest race, edging Oak Mountain junior John Shoemaker by less than a second to win the Class 7A individual title. Strand clocked 15:10.49, followed by Shoemaker, who finished in 15:11.20. Strand joined his older brother Ethan Strand as a state champion. Ethan Strand, now a junior runner at North Carolina, won back-to-back Class 7A titles in 2018 and 2019. Henry Strand also helped the Rebels win their second consecutive Class 7A team title. Unlike last year, the Rebels didn’t need a tiebreaker to claim the crown over Huntsville. Vestavia Hills had 45 points to finish ahead of Huntsville with 55 points and third-place James Clemens with 64. The Rebels had a trio of sophomores to earn All-State honors by finishing in the top 15. John Hayes was seventh with a time of 15:42.24; Ethan Meadows was 10th with a time of 16:00.85, and Jackson Mize was 14th with a time of 16:07.10. Freshman Daniel Johnson narrowly missed All-State honors, finishing 18th in 16:20.02. Hoover senior Zander Dakis earned All-State with a 13th place finish in 16:06.70. In the boys Class 5A race, Langley won the title with a time of 15:35.84, well ahead SouthsideGadsen’s Evan Christian, who sec-
FOOTBALL From page 34
Reynolds scored the Lions’ first touchdown on a 13-yard run. His blocked punt was recovered in the end zone by teammate Ryan Hamm for the Lions’ second touchdown. Grey Reebals returned an interception for about 50 yards for another TD, and senior quarterback Josh Thompson scored on an 8-yard run after the game was delayed for approximately 30 minutes near the end of the first quarter when multiple sets of lights at the stadium went dark. Briarwood will play host to topranked Saraland (11-0), the defending Class 6A champions, in the second round. Saraland routed McAdory 54-14 in the first round. “We know the reputation Saraland has and we’re excited to play,” Forester said. “It’s big for our guys to
Vestavia Hills senior Henry Strand, with trophy, won the individual state title and also helped the Rebels win their second consecutive Class 7A team title.
The Spartans took home the girls title for the fourth straight season with 43 points. Briarwood Christian was second with 83 points and Homewood third with 107.
ond finished in 15:43.66. “This is something I’ve wanted for a long time,” Langley said. “To finally do it means a lot. “I trusted my fitness and made my move at 800 meters. I separated from the other guy, and I knew if I kept my form I was going to win. This is something I’ll remember my whole life.”
Mountain Brook swept the Class 6A team championships. The Spartans took home the girls title for the fourth straight season with 43 points. Briarwood Christian was second with 83 points and Homewood third with 107. Mountain Brook’s top finisher was senior Mary Katherine Malone in fifth with a time of 18:24.11. Senior Lucy Benton was sixth, clocking
18:29.49. Sophomore Georgia Jayne Stuckey (19:13.10) finished 12th and freshman Anna Erdsberg (19:14.10) was 13th as both earned All-State honors. Briarwood’s Mary Grace Parker was third in 18:10.74, and teammate Bela Doss was fourth in 18:14.71. Homewood’s Caroline Wilder earned All-State honors with a 15thplace finish on a time of 19:32.64.
The Mountain Brook boys won their second straight title with 74 points, well ahead of Homewood, which was second with 129 points. Mountain Brook’s top finisher was senior John Roberts, who was eighth with a time of 16:04.58. Sophomore Braden Little was 13th in 16:10.77. Freshman Brooks Bazemore was 19th in 16:17.93
be back in the playoffs, and we’re looking forward to this second-round game.”
McFadden and Archer also hooked up on a 15-yard touchdown pass in the first half, and Archer sprinted 35 yards for a touchdown in the fourth. The Cavs’ Koron Wright intercepted a pass with 13 seconds remaining to clinch the victory. “I knew it wasn’t going to be easy,” John Carroll coach Will Mara said. “I knew it wasn’t going to just happen. “We overcame a lot of mistakes. We probably made more mistakes, but we’ve got kids that toughed it out and made one extra play.” The Cavs’ nine wins are their most since they finished 11-2 in 1994. John Carroll will host Guntersville (10-1) in the second round. Guntersville routed Springville 31-7 in the first round.
field goal early in the fourth quarter in the pouring rain to beat the visiting Patriots 10-9 in a Class 6A first-round game. Pike Road scored first when Malik Blocton intercepted a pass by Homewood quarterback Will Myers and returned it 64 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter. The ball slipped out of Myers’ hands and into Blocton’s arms. Homewood scored its only touchdown on A.J. Crear’s 1-yard plunge in the second quarter, but the extra point
attempt was blocked. Whit Armistead’s 32-yard field goal gave Homewood a 9-7 halftime lead, and it stayed that way until Ikerman’s field goal. “I thought both teams played well,” Homewood coach Ben Berguson said. “They won the battle for field position in the second half. We had a good football game.” Homewood finishes its season with a 6-5 record. Pike Road (9-2) hosts Spanish Fort (9-2) in the second round. — Rubin E. Grant
Spartans Sweep Class 6A
John Carroll Sticking Around
John Carroll Catholic (9-2) earned its first playoff win since 2004 with a 22-14 victory at Fairview (9-2) in Cullman in a Class 5A first-round game. The Cavaliers, making their first playoff appearance since 2009, took advantage of two early Fairview turnovers and jumped to an early 9-0 lead, then held Fairview at bay the rest of the way. John Carroll’s Jaylin Shepherd intercepted a pass on the third play of the game, leading to Charles Farr’s 28-yard field goal. On the next play from scrimmage, the Cavs recovered a fumble and turned it into an 8-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Carson McFadden to Zach Archer. The two-point conversion try failed.
Homewood’s Season Ends
Homewood’s season came to a disappointing and disheartening end when Pike Road’s Hunter Ikerman kicked a
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Spartans set for clash with Clay-Chalkville after opening round playoff rout: Playoff recaps Page 34
SPORTS
Thursday, November 16, 2023 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Meet the 2023 OTMJ All-OTM Volleyball Team in our Nov. 30 issue.
‘Awesome’ Levering’s Laser-Like Focus Leads Homewood to State Cross-Country Title
By Rubin E. Grant
Photo by Hank Spencer
Emma Brooke Levering approached the state cross-country meet just as she had any other meet this fall, focusing on herself and not the competition or the outcome. “I knew it was going to be tough and I knew I had to be focused to win it,” said Levering, a junior at Homewood. “I was trying to make it more about my time than about winning. I wanted to finish under 18:00 minutes. All season I have put the focus on me.” Levering’s steely concentration allowed her to not only run a sub-18:00 race but to come out victorious. She ran the fastest time of the day among girls, clocking 17:46.27 to win the Class 6A individual title last Saturday at Oakville Indian Mounds Park during the 68th AHSAA Cross Country Championships. Catherine Johnstone of Athens was second in 18:09.92. “It means a lot,” Levering said. “It’s something I have really been looking forward to doing. I’ve been working towards it my whole career, even going back to middle school, so winning was awesome. “I was able to do it through the grace of God and because my coaches trained me so well. When I got to the middle of the race, I saw where I was, and I told myself, ‘You got this.’” Levering hopes the title is a preview of See CROSS-COUNTRY, page 35
Mountain Brook players celebrate their win over Saraland 25-15, 25-14, 26-28, 25-15 for the Class 6A championship on Nov. 1 in Bill Harris Arean at the Birmingham CrossPlex.
‘FORGED BY FIRE’
‘I told the girls, you’re the one that should be unencumbered. We are flowing. You guys are trusting each other. You’re having fun out there. Just enjoy this ride and take it forward.’ MOUNTAIN BROOK COACH MATTIE GARDNER
By Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
L
ulu Bateh made two unreturnable serves during Mountain Brook’s championship match with Saraland on Nov. 1 in Bill Harris Arena at the Birmingham CrossPlex. But it’s the second one that will live in Mountain Brook lore. When Saraland couldn’t return Bateh’s delivery, Mountain Brook claimed its seventh state volleyball championship since 2014. With its fans literally behind them in the north end zone, Mountain Brook beat Saraland 25-15, 25-14, 26-28, 25-15 for the Class 6A championship. With that shank return, the skirmish between
Spartans was complete. Mountain Brook players (46-5) stormed the court and piled on one another in glee. Saraland (40-8) had claimed some momentum, taking the third set on its sixth set point. Coach Mattie Gardner had told her Mountain Brook squad that Saraland wouldn’t back down, that they are used to battling through fifth-set matches. But, Gardner said, her team was up to the challenge. “I told the girls, you’re the one that should be unencumbered,” she said. “We are flowing. You guys are trusting each other. You’re having fun out there. Just enjoy this ride and take it forSee SPARTANS, page 33
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Mountain Brook Ends Bayside’s Record Streak en Route to Seventh State Volleyball Title
Homewood’s Emma Brooke Levering ran the fastest time of the day among girls, clocking 17:46.27 to win the Class 6A individual title last Saturday at Oakville Indian Mounds Park during the 68th AHSAA Cross Country Championships.