OTMJ 11.3.22

OTMJ

Saluting Veterans

Events Planned to Honor Service Members

Nov. 11 each year is set aside as Veterans Day to pay tribute to those who have served our country through military service. Cities and groups throughout the Birmingham area are actively honoring service members with a variety of events, including:

NOV. 6

Step Stone Dedication and Tribute to Veterans

Alabama Veterans Memorial Park will hold its annual tribute to veterans and a step stone dedication ceremony at 1:30 p.m. For information, visit alabamaveterans.org.

Hoover’s Thank a Vet Kicks Off

Hoover’s weeklong tribute to veterans, Thank a Vet, kicks off Nov. 6 at the Hoover Public Library with a 2 p.m. program in the Hoover Library Theatre honoring the winner of this year’s Freedom Award.

Peyton Ligon, a decorated veteran of the U.S. Army, is being presented with this year’s award, which is given by the Hoover Veterans Committee and Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce.

of a Kind

By Virginia MacDonalD

MK Quinlan, the newest retail addition to Forest Park Village on Clairmont Avenue, is a concept shop that carries everything from high-end vintage clothing to jewelry, textiles, fine art and unique objects for the home.

The selection is a showcase of the inter ests and expertise of owner M.K. Quinlan, an interior designer, personal stylist and former journalist.

Quinlan grew up in Birmingham, and after years spent in Washington, D.C, New York

The Alabama Youth Symphony will perform a concert in the theater at 2:30 p.m., followed by a reception for veterans at 3 p.m. A flag-lowering ceremony will be held at 3:45 p.m. at the library’s flagpole. Posters honoring veterans from the children’s poster contest will be displayed in the library through November, as will pictures of veterans from all wars. Finally, visitors can view a salute to veterans who are prisoners of war or missing in action at the POW/MIA Table Display.

NOV. 10

Vestavia Hills Salute to Veterans

The city’s annual Veterans Day celebration features patriotic-themed entertainment followed by a reception honoring all branches of service. This year’s keynote speaker is Rear Adm. W. Kent Davis, retired. The event is from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Vestavia Hills’ new Civic Center.

Journal photo by Maury Wald

Interior designer MK Quinlan in her new shop in Forest Park

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Murphy’s Law

Hey, June Bug

From time to time, I inadvertently hit some button on my phone and a screen pops up that says, “What can I help you with?” If I don’t respond immediately, it says, “Go ahead … I’m listening.”

Despite the fact (or maybe because of the fact) that I have no idea how I make this happen, I find this feature endearing. Sure, the only things the phone offers to do are to call someone from my contact list or open one of my files and I can do that by myself, but I think it’s nice of her … him … it … to offer.

It would be better, of course, if I could say, “June Bug (I think I’d call her that), what should I make for supper?” or “Are municipal bonds really a good idea right now?” and June Bug would give me her wise, considered opinion, but so far, that’s not happening.

A lot of people have a June Bugtype gizmo that sits on their kitchen counter that is always ready with, if not a considered opinion, at least some handy information that might help a body make a decision on their own. Now, you’d think that people would use this access to piece together the meaning of life or some thing like that, but more often than not, it goes like this: “June Bug, who was the actor who played Mr. Haney on ‘Green Acres’?” After a momentary pause, June Bug says, “Pat Buttram,” and everyone says, “Oh, that’s right” and moves on with their lives.

Now, I know that June Bug is a machine connected to the wide, wide network of all the information in the world (or at least the version that has been logged), but it makes sense that, in order for her to retrieve just the

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right tidbit, the facts have to be orga nized in some way. I picture a vast warehouse filled floor to ceiling with various kinds of knowledge. When you ask a question, a little scooter-type robot moves rapidly through the aisles until she finds the answer and rushes back to June Bug, who grabs the mic and takes all the credit. My guess is that the June Bug Retrieval System keeps some more common answers close at hand, like “What’s the weather going to be today?” and others like, “What is the atomic weight of boron?” filed farther back in the “Who cares?” section.

I don’t have a housebound June Bug, mostly because I would find it unsettling to have someone passive ly listening to me all day long. I rat tle off a lot of nonsense in the course of the day. June Bug might take it upon herself to dispatch the Looney Tune police and have me hauled away. A friend of mine found it so unnerving that she snuck up on June Bug and threw her in a drawer. What I really could use is a JBRS robot to run around inside my brain and retrieve the things I already know but cannot seem to call to mind. I had to know the atomic weight of boron for a chemistry test at some point, but the information has since been stuck on a high cerebral shelf somewhere. Maybe it has fallen to the floor and been kicked under a desk. All I know is that at one point I had it and now I do not.

Funny thing is, I had no problem recalling the name of the actor who played Mr. Haney. Maybe my brain just needs a better filing system. “Hey, June Bug, how do I do that?”

Witches, Crowds and

... Oh My!

A light rain did not dampen the enthusiasm of the crowds that turned out Sunday for the 10th annual Homewood Witches Ride. “Witches” rode their bicycle “brooms” on a 2.5-mile route to benefit the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB. Participants dressed up for the spooky fun occasion and decorated their bikes as they threw candy to chil dren of all ages watching the “flight.” Left, Brooke Byrne, takes in her first Witches Ride with wide-eyed wonder. Look for more coverage of this and other OTM Halloween events in our Nov. 3 issue.

Sue Murphy

I don’t have a housebound June Bug, mostly because I would find it unsettling to have someone passively listening to me all day long.

A BIGGER PIG

Wiggly gets up

WIN-WIN

Art Therapy group’s

OOEY GOOEY

Traditional or avant garde, plates of creamy, cheesy pasta bring peace PAGE 36

HOLIDAY FUN

Special section on Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills’ upcom ing holiday events begins on PAGE 28

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

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HEIGHTS

Thurs., Nov 3

Homewood Holiday Open House

The Homewood Chamber of Commerce will kick off the holiday season with an open house, featuring shopping discounts and other activities at participating retail locations in the downtown Homewood area. When: 5-8 p.m.

Charles Billingsley: The Shadow of Your Smile Singer and entertainer Charles Billingsley returns to his alma mater to perform alongside the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. When: 7 p.m. Where: Samford University Wright Center

Thurs., Nov. 3-4

Sportsman’s Social and Clay Shoot

The Lord Wedgwood Charity will host its two-part fundraiser, presented by Bromberg’s, benefiting its mission to place life-saving AEDs in schools, athletic programs, camps and nonprofits throughout the Southeast. It includes the Sportsman’s Social, including a raffle and auctions, and Clay Shoots. When and Where: Sportsman’s Social, 6 p.m. Nov. 3 at Iron City. Clay Shoots, two sessions Nov. 4 at 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., at the Orvis Shooting Facility at Pursell Farms, Sylacauga.

GLOW WILD 2022: AN ANIMAL LANTERN CELEBRATION | SUN., NOV. 13

Watch the zoo come alive with larger-than-life, jaw-dropping wild animal and sea life lantern creations brilliantly lighting up the night! When: 5 p.m.-9 p.m. throughout November, December and January. Where: Birmingham Zoo

support the 54,000 people who have epilepsy in Alabama. Website: walktoendepilepsy.org/birmingham. When: 10 a.m. Where: Railroad Park

Walking to Remember

Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama will host a remembrance walk. When: 10 a.m. Where: Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama parking lot.

Nov. 5-6

Moss Rock Festival

This annual festival’s 16th anniversary eco-creative outdoor festival will feature artists, a smart living market, design artisans, nature exhibitors, food, beer garden and more. Festivities will also include live music, a photography exhibition and more. When: Nov. 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Nov. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Hoover Met.

Sun., Nov. 6

Birmingham” Facebook page. When: Noon Where: Avondale Brewing Company

Through Nov. 6

“I Ought to be in Pictures”

The classic Neil Simon comedy about a divorced scriptwriter who gets a surprise visit from his teenage daughter will be performed. When: Thursday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Theatre

Nov. 7-11

Terra Nova Academy Auction

Second annual online auction to benefit Terra Nova Academy in Uganda. Website for more information: terranovauganda.org

Wed., Nov. 9

Nov. 4 - 20

Side by Side by Sondheim A musical revue featuring the songs of Broadway and film composer Stephen Sondheim. When: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Where: Birmingham Festival Theatre

Sat., Nov. 5

Walking to Remember Riverchase Women’s Club holds its annual Walk to Fun 70s Tunes to raise funds for Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama. Donations can be made on site. Breakfast available 7-10 a.m. at the Riverchase Country Club Lakeview Café. When: Check in 8-9 a.m. Where: Riverchase Country Club

Walk to End Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation Alabama will host a walk to raise awareness and funds to end epilepsy and

Out of Darkness Walk

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Alabama chapter will host the Birmingham walk to raise funds and awareness for the organization’s mission to invest in lifesaving research, education, advocacy and support for those impacted by suicide. When: 2:30 p.m. Where: Veterans Park.

Sips for Sound

Benefit with live music featuring The Hams for the Woolley Institute for Spoken-Language Education, which is dedicated to teaching hearingimpaired children to speak. When: 5-8 p.m. Where: Dread River Distilling Company

Birmingham’s Next Hot Dog

The Animal League of Birmingham will host a contest to crown Birmingham’s “hot” dog. Festivities will include performances by Magic City Disco. Website: “Animal League of

Hope for the Holidays

Hope for the Holidays, a free grief support program for people who are facing their first holiday season since losing a loved one, will be held at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood. For more information, call 870-8667. When: 9 a.m.-noon Where: Fellowship Hall

Thurs., Nov. 10

Fall Extravaganza Luncheon, Fashion Show & Silent Auction

The Ballet Women’s Committee will hold this benefit for the Alabama Ballet. committee is an invitational volunteer organization that raises funding for the Alabama Ballet and is the presenter of the Poinsettia Debutante Ball. When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Vestavia Country Club

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

SERVICE PROJECT Fran Buchan, left, a Vietnam veteran, was among the members of the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club, below, who volunteered at the Alabama Veterans Memorial Park this past Saturday getting the park ready for the Step Stone Dedication and Tribute to Veterans on Nov. 6.

Parade, is a major event in the region and begins at 11 a.m.

Veterans Day Program at the Southern Museum of Flight

The Southern Museum of Flight will hold its 16th annual Veterans Day program from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Birmingham Heritage Band will perform at the event. The museum preserves and presents aircraft and memorabilia from the history of powered flight.

NOV. 13

Alabama Veteran Golf Tournament

The Robert Trent Jones

VETERANS

From page one

National Veterans Award Dinner

The annual National Veterans Award Dinner will take place beginning at 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Downtown Birmingham Ballroom. Service members who helped with COVID-19 response will be honored.

NOV. 11

National Veterans Day Parade

The National Veterans Day Parade marks its 75th anniversary in Birmingham with a move back to its original route on the north side of downtown, as it was before Interstate 59/20 construction. The parade, the country’s oldest National Veterans Day

O’Neal Library to Screen ‘Nosferatu’ With Live Music

Birmingham musician Chayse Porter will perform his score for the classic silent horror film “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror” at the O’Neal Library on Nov. 13.

The 1922 German movie directed by F.W. Murnau stars Max Schreck as one of the creepiest and scariest vampires ever depicted on film. Inspired by Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” “Nosferatu” is considered a masterpiece of silent expressionist cinema.

The screening is a presentation of Under the Mountain, a series of horror-

MEDICARE EDUCATION CLASSES

NOV. 3rd & NOV.

Oxmoor Valley golf course is the site of this year’s Alabama Veteran War on the Greens golf event in honor of fallen service members from Alabama. By partnering a veteran with others, it fosters an environment of understanding of their military experiences. Each year the tournament is named in honor of one Gold Star family to ensure they know their fallen will never be forgotten. During the week of Veterans Day, Birmingham-area volunteer veterans will visit veterans in hospice care to present them with pins and certificates.

NOV. 11-13

Veterans Day Weekend at the Zoo

In honor of Veterans Day, the Birmingham Zoo will be offering free admission to veterans, active and retired military members, including up to five dependents all weekend from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

related events hosted by the O’Neal Library.

Besides being a solo artist, Porter is a member of the bands Bitter Calm, Bulging, and Seriously. He is the co-host of “TVs of Terror,” a movie screening series based out of the Saturn music venue in Birmingham.

The library’s doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 7 p.m. The film is 95 minutes long and is recommended for ages 15 and up.

2116 Colum biana Rd., 205-704-9020

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Courtesy O’Neal Library

Thurs., Nov. 10

Concert and Sing-A-Long Founders Place, a respite ministry for adults living with memory loss, will hold a free concert and sing-along with the Side By Side Singers of familiar hymns, American standards and Broadway songs. When: 1:302:30 p.m. Where: Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church

Nov. 11-12

Tuck Everlasting

The story of an 11-year-old-girl who encounters a family who will live forever. When: Nov. 11. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12, 2:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Theatre

Sat., Nov. 12

5K Pig Run and Walk

The Mountain Brook Fraternal Order of Police and Mountain Brook Police Department are organizing this 5K and Fun Run, sponsored by Piggly Wiggly Crestline. When: 8 a.m. Where: Crestline Elementary School.

Holiday Bazaar

Christmas treasures, crafts, jams and jellies, and holiday cakes and pies are among the treats that will be for sale at the Saint Mark United Methodist Church holiday bazaar. There also will be a special drawing for a handmade Christmas Tree Rag Quilt. When: 9 a.m.-noon. Where: Saint Mark UMC

Straight No Chaser – The 25th Anniversary Celebration

The a cappella singing and recording group that originated at Indiana University will present an evening of music. When: 8 p.m. Where: Alabama Theatre

Nov. 12 & 13

Alabama Designer and Craftsmen Show and Sale

Artists from The Alabama Designer Craftsmen will be selling their work for your holiday shopping pleasure indoors at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. When: Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Nov. 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Nov. 16-19

Market Noel

The Junior League of Birmingham presents its Christmas market with vendors galore for those who want to get a jump on their holiday shopping. Ticket info: marketnoel.net. When: Nov. 16 preview from 7-10 p.m.; Nov. 17 from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 18 from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Nov. 19 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: The Finley Center, Hoover.

Nov. 17-18

Magical Marketplace

The annual arts and crafts show

to benefit Unless U will offer a VIP shopping event with $5 admission on Nov. 17. Admission is free on Nov. 18. When: VIP shopping event on Nov. 17, 5-7 p.m. Nov. 18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

Nov. 18-19

West Side Story Symphonic Dances

Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra to celebrate one of Bernstein’s most joyful creations, “West Side Story Symphonic Dances.” The concert also will feature the world premiere

of the Hammond Organ Concerto by Birmingham native Brian Raphael Nabors. When: 7 p.m. Where: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall

Sun., Nov. 20

Tree of Lights Memorial

Dedication

A tree filled with lights will be placed on the corner of Oxmoor Road and Central Avenue in Homewood’s Central Park and illuminated through December as a memorial to those we have love and lost in a fundraiser for Community Grief Support. Donations for memorial lights and cards can be placed at communitygriefsupport.org.

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OTM Mayors Hold Forum on Signs of Domestic Violence and Resources for Victims

By Anne Ruisi

Learning the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship can help prevent the escalation to domestic violence, several speakers said at the Over the Mountain Mayors Forum on Dating and Domestic Violence on Oct. 18.

“We’re putting the word out to every mayor in Jefferson County. Help us get the word out,” said Mayor Ashley C. Curry of Vestavia Hills. He was joined by mayors Patrick McClusky of Homewood, Frank V. Brocato of Hoover and Stewart H. Welch III of Mountain Brook. Representatives from Fultondale also were in the audience, Curry said.

Held at Vestavia City Hall, the forum drew an audience that learned about domestic violence and resources for victims from representatives of the YWCA of Central Alabama and One Place Family Justice Center, and the parents of a woman killed by her estranged husband.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone, so learning to recognize signs of a potentially abu sive relationship is vital, the speakers said.

Statistics on domestic violence are sobering. In Alabama, 37.5% of women and 29.5% of men have experienced domestic violence, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

This includes all types of abuse, such as physical, sexual and psychological abuse and stalking. It can be from a current or former part ner and can start at a young age.

“One in five tweens know a victim,” LaRhonda Magras, CEO of the YWCA, said. She said that 40% of U.S. teens aged 14 to 17 have been exposed to some form of domestic abuse and 39% have experienced sexual victim ization.

Domestic violence is any pattern of behavior in an intimate relationship used to gain power and control over another person, said Cleo Callahan, the YW’s senior director of domestic violence and shelter services.

It’s the leading cause of injury to women and cuts across all socio-economic levels, including

Where to Get Help for Domestic Violence

There are resources for anyone in an abusive or violent situation who wants help or just needs to talk.

• Crisis Center of Central Alabama U Talk Youth Line at 205-328-5464

• National Dating Abuse Helpline at 866331-9474, or text “loveis” to 22522

• National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233

• YWCA Crisis Line at 205-322-4878

age, income and education. Women ages 16 to 24 experience dating violence at the highest rate, three times the national average, Callahan said.

Watch for the Signs

Red flags of potentially abusive relationships include a partner who demands access to your phone and social media, isolates you from friends and family, uses jealously to justify their behavior, follows you or shows up unexpectedly at your dorm, class or job, begins to criticize you or calls you names, threatens to hurt you or themselves and won’t take “no” for an answer, according to the website of the Megan Montgomery Domestic Violence Prevention Fund.

Megan Montgomery was 31 when her estranged husband killed her in December 2019. She had escaped from his abuse and wanted to share her experience with other women. Her mother, Susann Montgomery-Clark, and stepfa ther, Rod Clark, created the fund to provide grants to nonprofits and schools to teach young adults about healthy relationships.

“That was her mission, to warn other girls and women,” Clark said.

The effects of an unhealthy relationship in teens and young women manifest in a change in mood, sleep and eating patterns, withdrawal from friends, lowered academic performance and loss of interest in activities and sports, Callahan said.

In adults, effects include anxiety, depression, a decline in work performance, withdrawal from friends, and trips to the emergency room.

Help is Available

The YWCA has confidential resources, such as counseling, assistance in securing legal servic es and help for victims to learn about healthy relationships, Magras said. These can be accessed at the 24-hour crisis line, 205-3224878.

Family and friends can offer support to those in an abusive situation, Callahan said.

“Let them know they are not alone and it’s not their fault. Provide resources and encourage them to reach out to community resources,” she said. “Allow them to speak and lead the conver sation. Let them know you believe them.”

Amend Together, a primary prevention initia tive, is a program that focuses on males. Its aim is to end violence against women and girls by challenging the culture that supports violence and cultivates healthy masculinity in men and boys.

Candidates Vie for Office in Nov. 8 Election

By Anne Ruisi

Over the Mountain voters will go to the polls Nov. 8 for an election that features campaigns for top statewide political office and local lead ership roles.

Here is a quick look at some of those local races.

Jefferson County

District Attorney – Incumbent Danny Carr, a Democrat, is running unopposed for a second four-year term. He was elected in 2018.

Sheriff – First-term incumbent Mark Pettway, a Democrat, faces Republican Jared Hudson for the county’s top elected lawman.

County Commission

District 5 – Steve Ammons is running unop posed for reelection. He’s served on the com mission since 2018.

State House District 46 – Incumbent David Faulkner is running unopposed. He was first elected in 2014.

State House District 47 – Democrat Christian Coleman and Republican Mike Shaw are seek ing the House seat held by the late state Rep. David Wheeler, who died earlier this year.

State House District 52 – Longtime state Rep. John W. Rogers Jr., a Democrat, is running unopposed. He was first elected in 1982.

Shelby County

District Attorney – Republican Matt Casey is running unopposed.

Sheriff – Republican John Samaniego is run ning unopposed for reelection. He has been sheriff since 2014.

State House District 43 –Incumbent Republican Arnold Mooney is facing Democrat Prince Cleveland and Libertarian Jason Newell Davis Burr.

The Homewood City Council has approved an incentive to help the Piggly Wiggly build a new building next to its current store that would double its size.

Under the agreement, the city set a base

“Of course, we expect with the Pig getting bigger that they will increase their sales,” Homewood City Council President Alex Wyatt said in a video wrapping up action by the coun cil during its Oct. 24 meeting.

amount of $3.5 million, the amount the Pig paid in sales taxes in the past year. The store will continue to pay sales taxes, but the city will rebate the store any amount it pays over $3.5 million.

The rebates will continue for up to 10 years or until the amount of taxes rebated reaches $3.5 million, Wyatt said.

“By doing it that way, we hope that the Pig is successful as possible and we hope that we

can reach that $3.5 million even sooner than 10 years, much like we’ve had with the Target deal,” Wyatt said. “By doing a full rebate above the base amount should allow us the best opportunity to do that.”

A representative of the landowner said they are talking with CVS officials about relocating their store on the adjacent property, Bham Now reported. If they do, that area will become parking.

Jefferson and Shelby counties

There are a few state Senate and State House district races that cross county lines in our area.

State Senate District 15 – First term incumbent Dan Roberts, a Republican, faces Libertarian Michael Crump.

State Senate District 16 – Incumbent J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner, a Republican, is unopposed. He’s been a state senator since 1990.

State House District 48 – Incumbent Jim Carns, first elected in 2011, is running against Libertarian Bruce Stutts.

Piggly Wiggly Gets Up to $3.5 Million in City Incentives to Build Larger Store

Plans are for a new Piggly Wiggly next to its current store, above, that would double its size.

‘Of course, we expect with the Pig getting bigger that they will increase their sales.’

ALEX WYATT, HOMEWOOD CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

A proven supporter of EDUCATION A proven leader

our

LIFE

Cancer Art Therapy Group’s Creativity Blossoms at the Botanical Gardens

By RuBin E. GRant

When Ascension St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center art therapy group couldn’t meet on campus because of the COVID-19 pan demic, Hope Long stepped in.

Long is library director at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

“Most people don’t even know we have a library at the Botanical Gardens,” Long said. “But we are part of the Jefferson County Library Cooperative.”

Louis Josof, an oncology counselor at Ascension St. Vincent’s, knew because he used to serve on the Botanical Gardens board. He had begun the art ther apy group at the cancer center sev eral years earlier.

There will be a special artists’ reception Nov. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to officially unveil the artwork done by the cancer support group participants. Art is available for pur chase through the Library at the Gardens.

“I had been reading about art therapy and how it was used as a mechanism for children with can cer because chil dren love to draw and color,” Josof said. “I knew adults like to draw and color, too, but they make excuses not to, so I started the art therapy group so they wouldn’t have any excuses.”

The pandemic threw a wrench into the group meetings, but the attendees still had a desire to continue to meet. Long provided them a place to do just that.

“When COVID hit, a couple of months in, Louis contacted me,” Long said. “I told him we had an open space for the art therapy group to meet. We have a nice garden outside the library with a covered shed.

“I’m also a cancer survivor and an amateur artist, so it worked out.”

The group met in the outside pavilion during the warm months and moved inside to one of the library classrooms when it turned cold.

Joel Cleveland, a cancer patient and artist who runs an advertising agency, has been meet ing with the group for several years. He was glad when the group could continue meeting at the Botanical Gardens.

Water Sound

Chamber

Premieres

“This therapy group has meant more to me than I could have ever imagined,” Cleveland said. “We have so many great artists and the group is so diverse. It really is something spe cial.”

The group continues to meet at the Botanical

Gardens even though it could meet at the cancer center.

“It’s so relaxing at the Botanical Gardens,” Cleveland said. “I used to go there a lot as a kid. It’s a beautiful place. It’s been a wonderful experience for our group.”

Art Gallery, Too

Long noticed the group’s artwork was quali ty craftsmanship and will feature it in a gallery during November and December. The art gal lery can be found in the hallway leading to the Library at the Gardens in the Garden Center.

“Since I’ve been there, I have comman deered the walls in the hallways and turned

The newly created Cahaba Chamber Chorale will present “Water,” a con cert in partnership with the Cahaba River Society, on Nov. 13

This premiere concert will take audiences on an aural and visual jour ney that explores the ways humans interact with water, the most precious compound on earth, according to a Cahaba River Society press release. Quint Harris and Lee Wright are the conductors.

Choral music from the Renaissance to the modern era will be featured, including traditional African American spirituals originating in the Appalachian region, accompanied by Cahaba River video imagery by award-winning filmmaker Hunter Nichols. Cahaba River Strings and the

them into an art gallery,” Long said. “It’s become so popular, especially with the light ing.

“We’ve had some great artistic groups dis play their works. Louis and I had been talking about having an art show for the therapy group, so we finally pulled the trigger.”

There will be a special artists’ reception Nov. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to officially unveil the artwork done by the cancer support group participants. Art is available for purchase through the Library at the Gardens.

Seventy percent of the proceeds will go toward Ascension St. Vincent’s Camp Bluebird, which is a twice-a-year camp retreat for cancer patients, and 30 percent will go to the Birmingham Library programs.

“I’m delighted we are involved,” Josof said. “It’s a win-win situation.”

Cathedral Brass of Birmingham will perform, and Ron Carson, founder of the Appalachian African American Cultural Center, will provide com mentary.

Ticket prices start at $50 for a VIP reserved seat, $20 for general admis sion and $5 for students. VIP ticket holders can attend the pre-concert Conductor’s Forum at 2 p.m. and a Cahaba Chamber Chorale premier reception after the concert.

The concert will begin at 3 p.m. at Indian Springs School, in the Town Hall building concert hall. For tickets and more information, go to cahaba chamberchorale.org/events.

Courtesy

Win-Win

Joel Cleveland, above, a cancer patient and artist who runs an advertising agency, has been meeting with the group for several years.

The newly created Cahaba Chamber Chorale conductors are, Dr. Quint Harris, left and Dr. Lee Wright.

Run and Activities Raise Money for Breast Cancer Research

Runners and walkers helped raise funds for breast cancer research Oct. 23 at the Pink Up the Pace 5K and 1-Mile Dolly Dash Fun Run in Mountain Brook.

The afternoon event was presented by Vulcan Materials Company and organized by the junior board of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation . of Alabama.

After the event, participants enjoyed after-run fun at Crestline Field with family-friendly activities that included face painting, a petting zoo, bounce house and an inflatable obstacle course.

Left, Liz Wesson, Avery Tarrant, Sara Fondren and Jessica Wesson. Right, Gaylin Auten, Larry McAlister and Mary Catherine Auten

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Brittany Golden and Marie McNutt

Lauren Huguley and Morgan Jenkins Tyler Williams and Mark Williams

Step Up for Down Syndrome

Walk Draws Attention to Need for Support of Those Living With Down Syndrome

The Step Up for Down Syndrome walk was held Oct. 23 at Wald Park in Vestavia Hills.

The annual event raises funds for Down Syndrome Alabama. It also was established to promote accep tance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to celebrate October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

Down Syndrome Alabama is dedi cated to supporting people living with Down syndrome, their families and communities throughout the state.

Alana, Angela and Aaron Baumann with Kevin Jackson

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Blair, Evelyn and Rachel Hamm

Left, Natalie Wilson and Terry Sinks Right, David, Elaine and Allison Crawford.

Putin’s War in Ukraine

Old Elyton DAR Hears Expert on Terrorism and Politics

The Old Elyton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution welcomed Dr. Randall Law, professor of history at BirminghamSouthern College, to its October meeting at The Country Club of Birmingham.

Members and guests heard Law’s presentation, “Putin’s War in Ukraine.”

He spoke about the history of the affected regions and enlightened the group with insights into current political leaders and their rise to power in Russia and Ukraine.

Law is an expert in the study of terrorism and political violence and is frequently interviewed by national and international news out lets on matters related to terrorism and Russian politics.

Antiques and History Entwined Antiquarian Society Hears from Historical Curator

The Antiquarian Society kicked off its first meeting of the year at Vestavia Country Club on Oct. 12.

Don Relyea, curator of the Karl C. Harrison Museum of George Washington in Columbiana, made a pre sentation. The museum holds a collec tion of art and artifacts related to George and Martha Washington and their family from the colonial period to 1865.

Society members also were served a luncheon with tables decorated by

Kirke Cater, Nancy Skinner and Diana Turnipseed.

Founded in 1944, The Antiquarian Society was formed by a group of women who shared an interest in antiques, heirlooms and architectural elements. This interest has fostered a continued passion for learning and his torical study throughout the years that has allowed members to look beyond a decorative object and understand its impact upon the culture.

Luz and Don Relyea with Antiquarian Society member Kay Clark.

ARE YOU STORM READY?

Make a safety plan before severe weather strikes.

Alabama can experience severe weather any time of year. That’s why Alabama Power is prepared to work quickly and safely to restore service whatever the weather. Meanwhile, there are things you can do to be ready for storms, and their aftermath.

BEFORE THE STORM

1. Charge cellphones and other electronic devices, and make sure to have a battery-operated weather radio to stay informed at all times.

2. Create a family plan for emergencies and discuss how to stay safe in all weather conditions.

3. Set the thermostat to a comfortable level in your house. Keep doors and

windows closed after the storm and your house will stay relatively comfortable for about 48 hours.

4. In the event of a tornado, plan to seek shelter inside a sturdy building, on the lowest level. Choose a small room with no windows, such as an interior closet, hallway or bathroom.

AFTER THE STORM

1. Report an outage or a hazardous situation, such as a downed power line, at AlabamaPower.com.

2. Make sure roads are safe before driving. Even after precipitation has stopped, the roads can still be dangerous.

3. Turn off appliances to avoid any potential safety hazards when power is restored.

GENERATOR SAFETY

1. While portable generators can help keep appliances running during outages, they can also be deadly when used improperly. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Connect only essential appliances such as a refrigerator directly to the generator. Plugging

4. Never drive over or under downed power lines, and keep children and pets away from them. Stay away from fallen trees or debris where downed lines can be hiding.

Never attempt to remove tree limbs caught in downed power lines. Call Alabama Power at 1-800-888-APCO (2726) or local law enforcement.

portable generators into your household electrical wiring can cause serious injury.

3. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, always operate portable generators outdoors in a well-ventilated, dry area away from windows and air intakes to the home. A good location is a roofed structure open on four sides.

Dr. Randall Law spoke to the Old Elyton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, including members, from left, Margaret Smith, Stephanie Byrne and Sue Ellen Lucas, and guest Naomi Cunningham.

Courtesy

Courtesy

SOCIAL

Holiday Debut

Annual Poinsettia Ball to Present 18 Debutantes

ThePoinsettia Men’s Club and Ballet Women’s Committee will host the 55th Annual Poinsettia Ball on Dec. 15 at Vestavia Hills Country Club.

Eighteen young women will be presented by their families. After their presentation, the debutantes will continue the evening with the traditional FatherDaughter Waltz, followed by music and a reception.

Seventeen junior debutantes will be introduced to the ballroom before the debutantes’ entrance. Each young lady will be introduced on her father’s arm

and then seated.

The Men’s Club president is David Adams Mason.

The Ballet Women’s Committee president is Melissa McMurray. Liz Guest is the ball board president. Jayna Southerland is the ball chair. Kelly Troiano and Stephanie Whisenhunt serve as the debutante social co-chairs and coordinate all debu tante activities. The benefactors benefit chair is Stacy Gregory. Beth Martin is the junior debutante social chairman.

The Ballet Women’s Committee Board includes Sarah Bryan, Erin Burton, Jennifer Culbertson, Cathy Donze, Diane Early, Liz Guest, Lianne Hand, Allison Herr, Sharon Maddox, Melissa McMurray, Kelli Threadcraft, Kelly Troiano, Tammy Townes, Ashley Stockard and Stephanie Whisenhunt.

The Ballet Women’s Committee was founded in 1960 to foster and promote fine arts in the greater Birmingham area. All proceeds from the Poinsettia Ball support the Alabama Ballet. ❖

Isabella Grace Plaia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Anthony Plaia

Abby Elizabeth Reed, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Damon Reed

Catherine Grace Couch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Preston Andrew Couch

Anna Grace Brown, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Barry Wayne Brown

Katherine Sydney Calamusa, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Calamusa

Blakely Jordan Channell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Heath Eric Channell

Claire Campbell Chester, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rollie Chester

Audrey Campbell Osborne, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Glidewell and Dr. and Mrs. James Gregory Osborne

Lauren Ann Holmes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Brett Holmes

Ansley Katherine Kirkpatrick, daugh ter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Boulware Kirkpatrick II

Emily Grace Lemak, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Lemak

Arden Grace McCullough, daugh ter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Dalton Scott Smith

Isabel Kate DiGuglielmo, daugh ter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel DiGuglielmo

Caroline Wade Gilroy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Gilroy

Photos courtesy The Ballet Womnen’s Committee

Lillian Foster Troiano, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Cory Troiano, Sr.

Emma Frances Stewart, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Davis Stewart, Jr.

Emma Grace Stutts, daughter of Mrs. DeLene Edwards Stutts and Mr. Bruce Andrew Stutts

The Ballet Women’s Committee Board includes, front, from left, Lianne Hand, Allison Herr, Kelly Troiano, Melissa McMurray, Liz Guest, Sarah Bryan and Cathy Donze. Back, Tammy Townes, Ashley Stockard, Jayna Southerland, Sharon Maddox, Ashley Moran, Stephanie Whisenhunt and Allison Baggett

Victoria Ashley Rohner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Douglas Rohner

Brunching and Planning Gaieties Dance Club Get Together for Fall Meeting

The Gaieties Dance Club held its fall coffee Oct. 5 at the home of Elizabeth Outland.

Members were served brunch pre pared by officers Jennifer Ard, presi dent; Leah Hazzard, vice president; Hannon Davidson, recording secre tary and yearbook chair; Robin Kidd, corresponding secretary; Becky Sevier, treasurer; Hettie Hall, past president and parliamentarian; Carolyn Reed, membership chair; and Carolyn Featheringill, publicity chair.

New members were elected, including Leslie Matheson, Jenny Reed, Ellen Melville, Robin Reed, Jane Huston Crommelin, Katherine Cox, Wesley Lassen, Tookie Hazelrig, Martha Hayley and Ginny Farley.

Dance chair Leah Hazzard shared plans for the annual Christmas formal to be held on Dec. 2 at the Birmingham Country Club. ❖

LUCY SAYS STOP!

To: thecookstore@msn.com

From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: Date: Oct.

MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Gaieties Dance Club officers, from left, front, Hannon Davidson, recording secretary and yearbook chair; Jennifer Ard, president; and Hettie Hall, past president and parliamentarian. Back, Robin Kidd, corresponding sec retary; Carolyn Reed, membership chair; Leah Hazzard, vice president; and Becky Sevier, treasurer.

Colitis Foundation – during Casino for a Cause.

The event, the chapter’s 12th annual gala, took place Oct. 27 at The Haven in Birmingham. Supporters attended a cocktail reception followed by dinner. The evening program included a live auction and a speaker on the foundation’s mission.

Ginger and Jerry Held and Katie and Brian Held were recognized as the 2022 United to Care and Cure Honorees. ❖

and Colitis Foundation

Brian and Katie Held and Jerry and Ginger Held

Journal photos by Jordan Wald Morgan and Harry Saag

Adam Kay, Alexa Nelson, Elisa Nelson and Adam Johnson

Andrew Miller and Stephanie Friedman

Candi Nelson, Jennifer Cork and Michele Hill

Claire Bern and Steve Lichter

Trey Collat and Sarah Weinberger, Robert and Alex Whitner

Merchants in Lane Parke sponsored their third annual Fall Edit in the Mountain Brook development on Oct. 20.

The family-friendly event was held in the parking lot of Ignite Cycle and Clean Juice and offered a variety of activ ities and treats for children and adults.

Fall-themed drinks and beer were available, and the Kids Zone featured a bounce house and fresh cotton candy. On site was a complimentary photobooth to capture the memories.

Live entertainment fea tured Birmingham singersongwriter Shayla Carter. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Hank Christie, Erik Schatz, April Godsey and Stacey Currier

Mary Ann Grammas, Catherine Pewitt, Carson Hull, Chris Carson, William Tynes and Turner Hull

Alden Climer, Emily Anderson and Abbie Knighton

Witches Who Lunch

The Riverchase Women’s Club held its annual Witches Luncheon Oct. 21 at the Riverchase Country Club.

In the spirit of Halloween, many members dressed up, which enhanced the festive occasion.

The club’s charities for October were Hoover Helps and Oak Mountain Mission. ❖

Haunt the Hills

Vestavia Event Leans Toward the Fun Side of Halloween

An afternoon and evening of family fun marked the first Haunt the Hills Trickor-Treat Night on the Grand Lawn at Wald Park on Oct. 22.

The Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce organized the event, which included a costume contest for children, adults, pets and groups, along with lots of candy. Sponsor businesses set up booths.

The evening ended with a screening of the film “Hocus Pocus,” a Halloween comedy about a trio of witches inadvertently brought back to life in Salem, Massachusetts.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Jessie Goodyear, Lindsey Nowell, Jessica Hall, Jill Kilpatrick, Catherine Gorman and Wendy McFarlin

Jack

Granger,

Lark Livingston, Jaclyn Langan and Kelley Tidwell

Taylor Doleys, Kristen Bewley and Sue Doleys

Leisa Roberts,

Ranch

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Lisa Cristopher, Michelle Hawkins, Katie Woodruff with Neila.

Above, Nawal Gad and Layan Mohd. Right, Reagan, Briana and Ross Merriweather.

Members of the Hoover Service Club gathered at the Hoover Country Club for their

general luncheon meeting on Oct. 13.

Following a gen eral meeting, the group heard a pre sentation by Carolyn Kolar, who spoke on the topic “Discover the Hoover Historical Society.”

Hoover Service

Applications Being Accepted to Take Part in Community Service Organization

It’s that time of year again!

The Hoover Belles organization is accepting applications from girls who want to take part in the community service organization.

The belles act as hostesses for the city of Hoover and perform communi ty service activities for civic events, as well as for local charities.

Each belle is required to work a minimum of 30 hours of community service and is expected to conduct herself in a manner that will bring honor to the program and. She must sign the Hoover Belle Pledge to be

drug, alcohol and tobacco free during her tenure.

To join the group, girls must be residents of Hoover, sophomores in high school, either public or private, and must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 during their tenure.

Applications for the Hoover Belles’ class of 2023, along with resume and reference letters, will be accepted through Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. They can be downloaded at hooveral abama.gov/804/Hoover-Belles and returned to the Hoover City Hall third floor office. ❖

Debbie Rutherford, Mike and Shelley Shaw

Kathy Hall, Tricia Naro and Erinn Fain

Carole Vandiver, Mary Sue Ludwig and Lynda Wasden

Rehab Reality...

by Judy Butler

The Home Environment Can Make a Difference

We recently had a client come to Bayshore Retreat to get help with his addiction. His wife has terminal cancer and he wor ried that he might have to leave Bayshore during treatment. My answer was simple: “You have to leave and any time left on the table will be waiting for you, should you need to return”. What this man is going through emotionally is heart wrenching. He is so very brave to take this time to heal himself so he will be a better person for her. He chose to come to Bayshore because he knew he would be able to talk with her every day and Skype her ‘good night’.

Addiction, like cancer, doesn’t choose whom it will affect. It can happen to anyone and for some there can be a cure if the right treatment is given; also, as with cancer, addiction can reoccur.

Over the years we’ve had doctors, lawyers, and other professionals who have turned their life around in our home setting. Some of the key reasons are that we don’t use 12 steps as our program. We take clients to meetings if they’ve never been, but some places have this as their program. (Why pay for that?). Instead, we have about 30 hours a week of counseling, including individual, group, and life skills. Life Skills is particularly impor tant to me because of issues Jeff (my son) and I dealt with over the years. Things like irrational thinking, relationships, anger, money, etc.

If you or someone you know is losing his or her life one drink or pill at time, give me a call. Bayshore Retreat is different and can make a difference.

Harvest of Hope

19th Annual Gala Raises Money for Cornerstone School

Guests were treated to cocktails and dinner at the 19th annual Harvest of Hope Gala at The Club on Oct. 21 to benefit Cornerstone School.

The Women’s Service Board host ed the event, which also included a brief program highlighting Cornerstone’s successes over the past school year.

The 2022 Harvest of Hope Honoree, Ford Hamilton, and the Volunteer of the Year, Melinda House Helveston, were recognized for their service.

Guests participated in silent and live auctions featuring items such as student art, jewelry, vacation packag es and gift cards. ❖

Carter McEnerney and Chris O’Neal

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Drayton Nabers, Carol and Mike Drummond, Walker Mills and Ginny Mills

John Halsey and Marne Wood and Janet and Shaw Gage

Mary Hanson, Nancy Canada, Janis and Fred Rogan

Trent and Hannah Hall

Danna and Brian Yarmowich

Bill and Katherine Cox and Molly and Lee Bowron

Mitch Dolen, Anna Gerhardt and Keri and Ryan Austin

Clair and John Hanson

Laura Helveston, Haley Helveston and Emily Helveston

Tablescapes

The Guild of the Birmingham Music Club held its first Tablescapes lun cheon Oct. 13 at the Vestavia Country Club.

Sixteen themed table settings were designed by Lochrane Coleman Smith, Connie Long, Linda Cooper, Suzanne Thomas, Phyllis Pelham, Angie Holder, Jocelyn Palmer, Phyllis Tinsley, Sandy Eichelberger, Cheree Carlton, Jeannie Bradford, Pat Grant, Margaret Hubbard, Fran Howard, Judy Anderson, Charlann Anderson and Nancy Jones.

This event was coordinated by president and chairman Cheree Carlton and co-chair Fran Howard. Eyleen Widjanarko’s piano playing welcomed guests as they arrived.

Guild member Kim Strickland, a former Guild scholarship winner, per formed and was accompanied by Alabama Symphony Orchestra pianist Chip Williams.

Awarding scholarships to excep tional aspiring talent is the Guild’s main goal. The money raised will go to deserving college students. ❖

Guild of the Birmingham Music Club Creates New Luncheon Fundraiser

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Pat Grant, Anne Kendrick, Melissa Lassiter and Claire Morgan

LoChrane Coleman Smith, Ron Bourdages and Becky Keyes

Swingin’ Through the Night

Up the

During Fall Dance

Caesar salad, lemon buttered aspara gus, white scalloped potatoes, pepper crusted beef tenderloin with pepper corn cognac sauce and bread pudding with caramel bourbon sauce.

Swinging music by Easy Street kept the dance floor crowded. Sally and Bob Stanley, Diane and Richard Horne, Marsha and Buford McCarty, Patty and Norman Clay, Shelley and Steve Watkins, Redonda and Lowell Broom, and Carolyn and Jim Delk were among those keeping the floor busy.

Members of the Coronets Dance Club took to the floor during the fall dance Oct. 14 at Vestavia Country Club to do the waltz, samba, tango, cha-cha, East Coast swing dance and rocking twist.

During the event, members were treated to a supper of mini crab cakes,

Also out on the floor were Linda and Michael Gooldrup, Rebecca Wingett and Greg Green, Judy and David Long, Troy and Ashley Carmichael, Kathy and Bob Tracy, Anne and Brad Osborne, Jack Mendal and Gloria Hudson, Charlie and Beth Glisson, Cathy and John Amos, Jean and David Hendrickson,

Carol and Phillip Powell, Edna and Ken Alderman, Linda and Spencer Backus, Anne England and Del Bradford. Margaret and Bill Howell, Bettie Davenport, Debby Noll and Tom Edmonds, and Sharon Ellis. ❖

Jim and Carolyn Delk and Linda and Michael Gooldrup

Anne England and Dell Bradford

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Richard and Dianne Horn, Redonda Broom, Rebecca Wingett and Greg Green.

Judy and David Long

Bettie Davenport and Debby Noll

Patty and Norman Clay Jack Mendel and Gloria Hudson

Sept. 30 was the perfect night for the Pickwick Dance Club to celebrate fall after two years of postponed events due to COVID-19.

Marsha and Owen Vickers hosted the event at their “hideout” for about 100 members and guests. It included a menu catered by Whiskers and great tunes for dancing by DJ Greg Smith.

Bootsie Garrett was the chief party planner, along with her commit tee of Fran Glendinning, Sharon Graham and Jeanne Adair. It was a fun evening for renewing longtime friendships. ❖

Courtesy Pickwick Dance Club

Far left, Joe and Julia Ann Cleage, Alan Howle. Left, Jim and Garnett Baker, Jan and Jack Carter

City and Charleston, South Carolina, working for the likes of the Wall Street Journal, Garden & Gun maga zine and several high-profile interior designers, she returned home three years ago with her family of four eager to be a part of the creative resurgence of Birmingham.

Textiles are at the root of Quinlan’s love of design and the element that connects the fashion and interiors compo nents of her store. She is one of the first retailers to offer a la carte textile consultation for home projects.

“High-end textiles have historical ly only been available to interior designers, not to consumers,” Quinlan said. “There’s a shift happening in that market now where more and more people are wanting a higher level of creative involvement in the design of their own home, and in many cases, their project isn’t big enough to be worth a professional design firm’s time. But why should they not have access to the finest materials available? We offer them that access as well as our expertise for

One of a Kind

reupholstery or drapery projects with out them having to formally engage in a larger interior design process.”

If someone inherits a vintage set tee with great lines but the fabric needs a refresh, Quinlan’s shop opens up a world of unique fabrics that can make the furniture pop.

In today’s world of rising prices and supply chain conun drums, it’s often the more affordable solution.

“Prices for new upholstery are through the roof, and in most cases it takes a year to arrive” Quinlan said. “A good vintage sofa or settee are typically higher quality, you can get them at a tiny fraction of the cost, and even if you spend a fortune on an incredible fabric with us, you’ve still saved a bunch of money. Not to mention, you’ve got something special that sets your home apart.”

Individualism Prevails

That’s the new luxury, according to Quinlan — getting your hands on one-of-a-kind pieces, not just for your home but for your wardrobe, as well.

“Twenty years ago, it was all about the luxury labels and having the same thing as your neighbor next door,” she said. “Today, people want

something special that reflects their interest and personality. Something no one else has. The vintage clothing and furniture markets have skyrocketed as a result.”

Some design experts say antique is

an item that is 100 years old and vin tage is anything from before 1999.

Quinlan defines vintage as the early 1990s and back.

“I have clothing from the 1920s up to the iconic Princess Di 1990s era,”

grew up in Birmingham, and after years spent in Washington, D.C, New York City and Charleston, South Carolina, she returned home three years ago with her family of four

she said.

Her design advice? Successfully pulling off vintage is all about the art of the mix.

“If you have a 1980s house, deco rating that in all 1980s furniture and art would be creepy,” she laughed. “The same goes for clothing. If you have a dynamite 1950s dress, you’ve got to give yourself modern hair and makeup, otherwise you’ll look like you’re going to a costume party! It’s all about combining pieces from dif ferent eras. There are so many ways to make a home or an outfit new by pairing opposite elements.”

One throw-back design making something of a comeback is the sunk en living room, or “conversation pit” as some call it, a signature of many high-profile mid-century homes.

“I think people are drawn to these because they’re architecturally so interesting and because they’re nostal gic about a time when we weren’t all distracted by our cellphones,” Quinlan said. “A room dedicated to conversa tion only is a pretty novel concept

these days.”

Southerners, in particular, are drawn to items from the past, she said.

“What is the Faulkner line, ‘The past is never dead, it’s not even past?’ I’ve always felt that Southerners enjoy antiques and vintage because we’re storytellers, and every piece that I sell has a story to tell,” she said.

Vintage furs are a popular item in the shop around the holidays, and oftentimes they’re embroidered on the inside with the names of their original owners.

“My clients love learning or even speculating about the past lives of the women who owned these coats,” Quinlan said.

In addition to vintage clothing and

‘A good vintage sofa or settee are typically higher quality, you can get them at a tiny fraction of the cost, and even if you spend a fortune on an incredible fabric with us, you’ve still saved a bunch of money. Not to mention, you’ve got something special that sets your home apart.’

Handyman

unique textiles, the shop also offers easy gifting items, such as coffee table books, one-size-fits-all neck warmers, hats, jewelry that will add an element of surprise to an otherwise mundane outfit, and purses adorned with beads, in novelty needlepoint patterns or box-shaped in well-worn leather. In other words, one-of–a-kind.

Designer evening coats and gowns are popular for charity balls and other functions.

The high-end fabrics she offers are for home design elements and cloth ing. A vintage quilt can be made into pillows, she said.

Quinlan’s Artists

Every three months, the design studio hosts art openings, usually for artists Quinlan has discovered and befriended throughout her design and journalistic careers.

“I have been so excited with the reception of our artists,” Quinlan said.

Art presently featured is that of Cate West Zahl of Charlottesville, Virginia, whose abstract landscapes

are reminiscent of artist Richard Diebenkorn.

When asked if she worried about ever running out of unique items to sell, Quinlan took a minute.

“Every time a new season hits, I wonder where I’m going to find the cool vintage, or the right artist that really feels of the moment,” she said. “But then, somehow it shows up at my door. I have a lot of relationships that I’ve built up over the years to thank for that. And, of course, my growing list of loyal clients in Birmingham who embrace the unique.”

Journal photo by Maury Wald

Open House(s): Popular Home Tours Return

BH&G Inspiration Home Now Open

Birmingham Home & Garden maga zine’s 2022 Inspiration Home show house will be open to the public through most of November.

Since 2003, Birmingham Home & Garden has built homes from the ground up with the area’s top resources for homeowners, home builders and remodelers.

Companies working on this year’s house, which is at 2211 Chestnut Road in Vestavia Hills, are builder, Mitch Bradford of Saunders

Bradford Building Company; home designer, Adam Gerndt of Adam Gerndt Design Group; landscape design, Craig Smith & Fletcher Smith of Curb Appeal; and interior design liaison, Britney Bradford of Neylan Design.

Money raised by this year’s home tour will go to The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs, which provides intervention services for infants and toddlers at risk for devel opmental delays.

The house will be open through Nov. 27 on Thursdays through Sundays, except for on Thanksgiving Day.

Tickets are $10 per person and may be purchased through Eventbrite; search for BHG Inspiration Home.

League Features Five Homes

The Legacy League’s 12th annual Christmas Home Tour will feature three homes in Vestavia Hills and two in Mountain Brook during the event to raise scholarship funds for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances.

To date, the tour has raised more than $300,000, helping change the lives of students who have faced obstacles such as homelessness, inner city violence, the disability or death of a parent or sibling, foster care, parental job loss, abandonment, parental incarceration and the sacri fices of full-time ministry, according to a news release from Samford.

ARC Realty is presenting sponsor for the community event, which will include pop-up shops and holiday refreshments at the Samford President’s Home. Homes on display will be:

• Julie and Beck Taylor, Samford President’s Home,1994 Shades Crest Road, Vestavia Hills.

• Kathryn & Doug Eckert, 2900 Overhill Road, Mountain Brook.

• Wansley & Ryan Griffin, 2133 Southwood Road, Vestavia Hills.

• Bridget & Andrew Patterson, 309 Sunset Drive, Vestavia Hills.

• Jenny & Scott Sobera, 2824 Canoe Brook Circle, Mountain Brook.

The homes will be open Dec. 8

from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets will be available in early November, and advance pur chase is required.

IPC Holiday House Tour & Tea Kicks Off Dec. 10

Tickets for the 73rd annual Holiday House Tour & Tea at Independent

Presbyterian Church on Dec. 10 are now available.

This year there are two ticket lev els, according to IPC’s website. The $35 standard ticket option includes a link to this year’s virtual tour deliv ered via email, which can be used through the holidays.

A new feature, the $75 premium ticket, includes the virtual tour and admission to a traditional afternoon Christmas tea at the church Dec. 10

beginning at 1 p.m. An in-person tour of the church sanctuary and par lor, festively decorated for the holi days, will be offered. Tea and a selection of warm beverages, finger sandwiches, pastries and scones will be served in the great hall.

The Holiday House event is an important part of the church’s com munity outreach, and net proceeds from ticket sales benefit programs of IPC Community Ministries that

directly support women and children, such as the Children’s Fresh Air Farm and First Light Shelter. They also help IPC offer financial assis tance, food and support to local fam ilies in need.

A beneficiary of Holiday House, IPC’s Blessing Boxes and Food Pantry provide hygiene essentials, and IPC’s utility assistance program helps keep families in their homes with running water and electricity.

Mountain Brook is Open for the Holidays!

Throughout 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.

“We’re seeing people are ready to get out of the house and ready to go,” Emily Jensen, presi dent of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce said. “Mountain Brook is ready and

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 and English Village Open House will take place Dec. 1 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with discounted prices and spe

the annual Christmas Parade on Dec. 4. The parade begins at 3 p.m. at Office Park and travel through Mountain Brook Village. Floats decked out in holiday regalia and performances by Mountain Brook City Schools cheerleaders, dance teams and bands will be part of the event.

‘We’re

EMILY

PRESIDENT MOUNTAIN BROOK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Crestline Village’s Holiday Open House

off

Christmas Parade is set for

photos by Jordan Wald

Town & Country Clothes

“We have been in business since 1943, making us one of the oldest businesses in Mountain Brook,” said store owner Laurel Bassett, pictured.

Crestline Pharmacy

Crestline Pharmacy is an independently owned family business. Doc Goldstein opened the pharmacy in 1950. Matt and Amanda Leach, above with their children, purchased it from Mike Cobb and Scooter Hammers after their thriving 30 year tenure. Their hope is to contin ue the long standing tradition of operating more like a family than a business.

“We offer free delivery, convenient curbside pickup and excellent customer service,” said Matt.

“Now that the holidays are near and people will be traveling and spending time with groups, vaccines are on the mind of a lot of people,” said Matt.

“Flu season is starting up and that is making a lot of people think about vaccines such as shingles and pneumonia. It is much more conve

nient for most folks to get their vaccines at their local pharmacy such as ours, than it is to go to their doctor’s office,” said Matt.

According to Matt CBD products are also very “hot” right now. With potential benefits of helping relieve pain, stress, anxiety, and sleep. Also benefits have been seen in skincare as well. “We have 2 excellent lines of professional CBD products that have great high quality organic ingredients,” said Matt.

The year-round gift shop in the front of the store offers a great selection of accessories, home decor and gifts. Just in time for the holi days, Crestine Pharmacy Christmas Shoppe is now open and has moved inside the pharmacy.

Crestline Pharmacy is located at 60 Church Street, Crestline Village, 205-871-0317.

“Town & Country’s top pri ority is personal service, tailored to each customer’s style and fit con siderations,” said Laurel. “We focus on fabrics that are easy to care for, silhouettes that fit a flatter real wom en’s bodies, and styles that accom modate our cus tomers’ lifestyles and travel.”

“This holiday season is already gearing up to be a busy one! Our cus tomers are already looking for outfits for parties coming up this season, and we are ready for them, with hand-dyed silk tops, velvet scarves and tops, cashmere ponchos and wraps, and beautiful dressy jackets in rich textures for the holidays. We also have handmade jewelry and scarves that you won’t find anywhere else.”

Pictured is a hand-dyed convert ible velvet wrap made by store owner Laurel Bassett, that has hook and eye clo sures to be worn multiple ways, $138, metallic silk shibori necklace by Florida artist Erin Bassett, $86, and handmade metal cuff by Laurel Bassett, $114.

“We will have sales throughout the week of the Crestline Holiday Open House, and we will be open until 7 p.m. Thursday night to celebrate the holi days with the other stores in the village. We will have a tent out front with drinks and samples of some of the deli cious treats we are selling this season, including Savannah Grace cheese straws and Market 46 granola.”

Town & Country Clothes is located at 74 Church Street in Crestline Village, 205-8717909.

Vestavia’s All Dressed Up With Plenty of Places to Go

pop up shops from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring local artists, McRee said.

The holiday season in Vestavia Hills kicks off in Cahaba Heights with Deck the Heights on Nov. 12 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. In addition to holi day specials from local merchants, Heights Holiday Pop Up Shops will open at 10 a.m. all around Cahaba Heights.

Deck the Heights will feature the Heights Express, trolleys and buses making regular loops to take shoppers to six stops in Cahaba Heights all day so they can take in all the festivities, said

A giant Snow Globe Bounce House, face painting, a holiday train, inflatables and a mechanical bull are some of the features of this year’s event, which will be spread throughout the shopping areas. Dancers will perform, as will a violinist and jazz musicians, and a snowmaking machine will offer a real taste of winter.

At the Heights Village, there will be holiday

Vestavia Hills City Center will hold a holiday celebration Nov. 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with the annual All Is Bright Tree Lighting.

The event will include festive music, photos with Santa and kids’ activities. Attendees also can pick up bingo cards and mark off the name of merchants as they shop. Each completed Bingo card will count as one entry in a prize drawing.

The big Tree Lighting Festival will take place Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. at Vestavia Hills City Hall and includes musical entertainment, mer chant giveaways and a visit from Santa.

Fun for the whole family, the annual Breakfast with Santa will be held Dec. 10 from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the new Vestavia Hills Civic Center.

A Menorah Lighting ceremony will take place on Dec. 20 at 6 p.m. at Vestavia Hills City Hall and include refreshents and activities.

Citywide festivities will conclude Dec. 11 with the annual Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade and Celebration from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The parade will begin at Liberty Park Sports Complex and travel to Alston Meadows Park, where a holiday celebration will take place.

For more information, visit vestaviahills.org.

Katherine McRee, president of the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association and owner of the Lili Pad and Gigi’s.

Journal file photos by Jordan Wald

The Blue Willow

“We are a locally owned gift shop and spe cialty boutique whose aim is to provide excel lent customer service,” said Blue Willow owner Lynda Stout, above.

“From the moment you walk in, we hope

you feel welcomed and appreciated as we assist you in your shopping. The Blue Willow is your perfect source for home decor, accessories, gifts, jewelry, unique baby items, monogramming, and so much more! We carry many of your favorite lines and try to have the most fabulous finds. Every gift will be wrapped with a touch of Southern charm that will have your friends and

family smiling!”

“As we head into the holiday season, tradi tional Christmas decorations are always the most popular for us. We have a beautiful assort ment of Santas, nativities, and angels. Additionally we are known for our famous orna ment wall guaranteed to help you find that unique ornament for a special person.

“You can get started on your shopping at our Holiday Open house on Tuesday, November 8th, with door prizes and special savings. The annu al Deck The Heights Event will be on Saturday, November 12th, with complimentary food, activities, and trolley rides in the Cahaba Heights shopping areas.”

The Blue Willow is located at 3930 Crosshaven Drive, 205-968-0909.

Hug Chiropractic

The Hug Chiropractic Clinics are proud to announce the association of Ellicia “Leesha” Kaiser, D.C. Dr. Kaiser, above, and her husband, a proud member of our armed forces have decid ed to retire from the military and settle down in Birmingham.

Dr. Kaiser boasts an accomplished resume and promises to be an asset for anyone suffering from neck and back pain, headaches and other muscu loskeletal maladies.

“My passion for chiropractic started when I was 11 years old. My parents took me to get treated by a chiropractor in Boerne Texas after I was diagnosed with growing pains. I’ve always been active in sports and having routine adjust ments decreased my pain and I was able to enjoy playing with the other kids. That year I decided I would be a chiropractor so I could help other

people enjoy a painless or pain free life.”

The red apple has become a familiar and con sistent site in Cahaba Heights since 1972 and over the last 10 years Hug has have provided the same standard of service in their Clay/Trussville location.

Hug doctors epitomize professionalism and clinical excellence. They are leaders in their fields and serve in numerous capacities in various state and national organizations including Alabama’s licensure board and a Blue Cross and Blue Shield Chiropractic Advisory Committee. Hug doctors strive to be the standard for high quality clinical care and unparalleled level of customer service.

Dr. Kaiser is now accepting patients at the Cahaba Heights location at 3153 Cahaba Heights Rd., 205-967-0280.

3153 Cahaba Heights Rd. Birmingham, AL 35243 office 205-967-0280 fax 205-967-0408

5290 Old Springville Rd. Pinson, AL 35126 office 205-854-9988 fax 205-967-0408

Mon, Wed & Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tue & Thurs: 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

www.birminghamchiropractor.net

"Like" us on Facebook at Hug Chiropractic Clinic Follow us on Twitter at hugchiropractic

‘YOU CAN GET STARTED ON YOUR SHOP PING AT OUR HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH’

We Have Grown Again

The Lili Pad

You’ll pick up that pair of bloomers and remem ber the way her chunky little legs spilled out from the ruffles.

You’ll fold up the smocked golf shirt when it no longer fits, remembering the look on his face when he first putt. You’ll carefully box up the lace-detailed heirloom dress as you dream about her daughter wearing it for her own portrait one day. You’ll wash his newborn pj’s once more, holding them close to your face as you’re trans ported back to the late night feedings and early morning feedings and early morning snuggles.

“Childhood is fleeting, but that’s part of what makes it magical!” said Susan Day, far right with sister Katherine McRee, owners of The Lili Pad. “We savor each season, and bring you a curated collection of specialty childrenswear to help you tell the story of their childhood, mark ing the wonder of both everyday moments and your most special occasions.”

“We believe small businesses are the back bone of our community,” Katherine said. “This motivates and inspires us to be involved and give back, as we partner with the Junior League of Birmingham and other local charitable orga nizations. We’re grateful to serve and thankful for the love we’ve received in return from our customers and from local organizations includ ing: Vestavia Hills Retailer of the Year (2018); Best Tween Store (Best of Birmingham); Best of Birmingham Parent’s Choice; Best of Vestavia Hills; and Alabama Retailer of the Year (2008.)”

The Lili Pad is located at 3138 Heights Village, Cahaba Heights, 205-298-1811. lilipadbham.com

Meet Katherine and Susan

“We’re two sisters and moms who believe dressing children can be both fun and simple,” said Katherine McRee with sis ter Susan Day, above from left.

“You could say we were destined to start a retail shop because it’s in our blood,” added Susan. “We grew up watching our mom, owner of Town and Country Clothes in Mountain Brook, serve clients and friends through her store.”

“We opened The Lili Pad in 2004 to fill the need we felt as moms looking for attrac

tive, enjoyable childrenswear,” Katherine said. “It has grown over the years as we’ve gained loyal customers who feel like family, and we’ve expanded our store with a sister brand, GiGi’s, for tweens. The Lili Pad is now about 3000 square feet and GiGi’s is about 2000 square feet. Construction started in May and was complete in August.”

“Our mother passed away in 2002, and it’s not lost on us that we’re fortunate to get to remember and honor her every day through the work we do,” Susan said.

GiGi’s

“At GiGi’s, we know it takes more than just clothes to feel confident,” said owner Katherine McRee, far left with sister Susan Day owners of Gigi’s and The Lili Pad. “We believe in helping you discover your personal style and embracing all the things that make you, YOU!

We offer clothes that are fun, fashionable, comfy, and high quality. We’re all about help ing you shine from the inside out.”

“Our team is made up of girls and women who, just like you, love to look cute, but also want to be kind and authentic with everyone we meet,” Susan said.

“Whether you’re shopping online or in our Birmingham store, GiGi’s is a place where you can relax and have fun with colors, styles, and trends” Katherine said. “We love helping you create an outfit you love, and your creativity and personalization inspires us!”

Gigi’s is located at 3140 Heights Village, Cahaba Heights, 205-593-4586. gigibham.com

‘YOU COULD SAY WE WERE DESTINED TO START A RETAIL SHOP BECAUSE IT’S IN OUR BLOOD. WE GREW UP WATCHING OUR MOM, OWNER OF TOWN AND COUNTRY CLOTHES IN MOUNTAIN BROOK, SERVE CLIENTS AND FRIENDS THROUGH HER STORE.’

Second Hand RoseLittle Soles

Little Soles children’s shoe store opened in 2006 offering high quality shoes, rain jackets & umbrellas, socks, tights, hairbows, and accesso ries.

“Our boutique is a ‘sit and fit’ shoe store where our trained employees measure each cus tomer’s foot to find the proper fit,” said owner Michelle Crim, above left with Donna Triantos. “As our young customers began to grow out of kids sizes, we added a selection of women’s shoes to our assortment to accommodate not only grow ing girls, but also busy mothers with little time to shop for themselves.”

“In addition to women’s shoes, we have con tinued to grow our business by adding in hand bags, jewelry and other gift items.”

In July of 2022 Little Soles moved to a new location on Dolly Ridge Road next door to

Murphree’s Garden Center and across from Cahaba Heights Elementary School. “We love our beautiful new location with plenty of front door parking.”

“In the shoe industry, sneakers are still an important fashion item. Sneakers are being worn with every type of clothing from shorts to pants to dresses. Hi-tops and low-profile styles are being worn by both women and girls. Boots and loafers with a more aggressive lug sole or stacked plat form soles are also popular this fall and winter.”

Little Soles Deck the Heights event will be Sat., Nov. 12 from 2 - 7p.m. with refreshments, giveaways, face painting for kids and special sales.

Little Soles is located at 4232 Dolly Ridge Road in Cahaba Heights, 205-970-6990.

Second Hand Rose is a consignment boutique featuring shoes, handbags, fashion jeans, dresses, tops and accessories from top designers. “Our inventory changes daily so we always have fresh new seasonal merchandise.With savings up to 80 percent on quality designer labels, it’s like Christmas everyday. Extraordinary labels - amaz ingly priced,” said Gina Saab, owner of the busi ness since 2009.

Around 50 percent of the merchandise at Second Hand Rose is brand new merchandise with the original tags. The store carries local consign ment along with merchandise brought in from bou tiques from around the state and other areas.

“The greatest thing about our store is we have a lot of different labels all under one roof,” Saab said.

“We get so many great things, it’s like shopping at 50 different stores all in one place.”

Some of the boutique’s most sought after brands include Prada, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Coach, Tory Burch, True Religion, Seven For All Mankind, Chanel, Michael Kors, DKNY, Eileen Fisher, Chico’s and more.

Second Hand Rose is a great place to find unique, special gifts for the people on your holiday list. The shop also offers gift certificates so that the recipient can enjoy the experience of finding their own one-of-a-kind gift for that perfect occasion.

“My favorite thing is meeting and working with the customers,” said Saab. “Everyone leaves happy and that is why I love what I do.”

Store hours are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Second Hand Rose is located at 4200 Oakview Lane in Cahaba Heights, 205-970-7997.

Happy Holidays from the Salon Summit team

Sexton’s Seafood

Sexton’s Seafood market owners, Jason and Lee Schroeder, (pictured above with son Ty) have lots of experience in the seafood business. Jason worked with his parents at Sexton’s for over 30 years before taking ownership a few

years ago. So expect fresh seafood, from friendly people who are willing to help work on your next dining-in experience. Ask the team at Sexton’s for cooking tips as well as information on anything from fresh: clams, tuna, octopus, alligator, boudin sausage, gumbo and salmon.

“Our team is ready to help you with your

planning for upcoming holiday dinners and parties,” said Jason.

“Are you planning on fresh oysters, fish or shrimp for a party? Let us help you estimate your needs and get the order in fresh for your next event!”

“We carry over 20 varieties of fish daily and lobsters, shrimp, shellfish, crabs, oysters and prepared foods like crabcakes! Order ahead to assure we have your favorite seafood in stock; call or come by and ‘Let’s get the Party Started at Sexton’s.’”

“Fresh tastes BEST at Sexton’s Birmingham. Call us for ideas.”

Sexton’s Seafood of Birmingham is located at 3164 Heights Village in Cahaba Heights, 205967-3437.

Fresh Seafood

Sexton's carries a variety of over 20 fish daily, and a huge variety of Shellfish, Shrimp, Crabs and Lobster. Prepared foods such as West Indies Crab Salad, Tuna Dip and Crabcakes are available daily. WE have suggestions on how to prepare your seafood. Just ASK!

Holiday Special-Buy 10lbs of any size shrimp and get a $1.00 off per pound! Taking orders for Thanksgiving starting Nov. 1st

Owners DeAnna Lucas, manicrist and Linda Willard, stylist

Leia Garner, stylist

Lisa Wells Causey, front desk

Paul Allan, stylist

Kristen Hamilton, stylist

‘OUR TEAM IS READY TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR PLANNING FOR UPCOM ING HOLIDAY DINNERS AND PARTIES.’

The Wald Group

With interest rates on the rise, the Vestavia real estate market is transitioning away from the extremely tight seller’s market of the past few years. And yet, it’s still a healthy seller’s market with more buyers than available homes for pur chase. So, if you’ve been considering selling your home, it’s not too late. But, it’s more important than ever, to make sure to price your home appro priately. If you’re trying to buy a home in Vestavia, higher interest rates are increasing bor rowing costs. On the positive side, buyers are seeing a little less competition from other buyers.

Thanks to their innovative marketing strate gies, Mike and Hayden’s 2022 over-the-mountain listings have sold for an average of $29,175 over list price! That’s 105.4% of list price, which is

about 3 times higher than the average for other agents. Clearly, effective marketing makes a dif ference.

With over three decades of combined experi ence, this father and son team has been trusted by more Vestavia families to sell their homes over the past 20 years than any other agents. They’ve successfully helped well over 1,000 clients buy and sell. That’s experience and integrity you can rely on in this changing market. Hire the best and sell your home for more!

Visit VestaviaLiving.com for more informa tion. Or, call Mike and Hayden at the numbers below. They’d be happy to offer you their expert opinion of your home’s current market value.

Lessons Learned

Air Force Veteran Shares Leadership, Values as Hoover High JROTC Instructor

By Anne Ruisi

In 2007 as he thought about retirement, Air Force Master Sgt. Grant Gibson considered a sec ond career in emergency preparedness.

Although he earned a master’s degree in home land security, Gibson ended up in the classroom as an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor, first in Columbus, Ohio, and then at Hoover High School in 2018.

“I’ve not looked back ever,” said Gibson, an Iowa native who came to Hoover High to open the Air Force JROTC program that he’s helped guide for the past five years.

Gibson spent much of his 20-year military career working as a public health technician, which included a variety of responsibilities such as contact tracing for certain health conditions.

He got his first taste of teaching during a stint as an instructor at the Air Force’s Airman Leadership School, and then he was asked to do a leadership program by a high school in Oklahoma.

“We hosted a camp for Air Force Junior ROTC,” he recalled. “We flew on airplanes, did the obstacle course. I really, really enjoyed it – and teaching.”

Air Force JROTC doesn’t require cadets to enter the military after high school. Its mission is to develop citizens of character dedicated to serv ing their nation and community.

In the program’s first year in Hoover, about 70 students enrolled and the program was going well. Then the pandemic began, and enrollment suf fered. This year, 54 students are participating. About as many boys as girls are in the program, with perhaps a few more girls than previous years.

“COVID kind of killed us,” Gibson said. “I think next year we’ll get back up” to more partici pation.

Gibson is one of two Air Force Junior ROTC instructors at Hoover High School. He and Col. Chris Moulton teach classes and work to develop their students into cadets.

Service Before Self

The program is grounded in Air Force core val ues of integrity first, service before self and excel lence in all they do, according to Title 10 of the U.S. Code, Section 2031, which outlines Air Force JROTC requirements.

The in-classroom curriculum includes Air Force heritage and traditions, the development of flight, military aerospace policies and space explo ration.

Activities include teaching cadets life skills and helping them develop character. They also learn about the chain of command, standards of military life, such as how to wear their uniform, military

Spirit of Service

Spain Park High School’s Armed Forces Club will dedicate nine bricks engraved with the names of former students who served or are serving in the military and lay a wreath at the school’s Patriots’ Corner in the club’s second annual ceremony Nov. 9, at 1:25 p.m. The event is open to the public. Pictured at right, students at last year’s dedication ceremony.

Gibson got his first taste of teaching during a stint as an instructor at the Air Force’s Airman Leadership School.

customs and courtesies, Gibson said.

“We ease them into the program,” Gibson said, adding he focuses on leadership development. “Eventually, as they grow with the program, it becomes a cadet-led program,” he said.

Air Force JROTC teams in drill, color guard, drones and academics each have a student com mander who is responsible for making sure their team is successful at what they do.

They also are exposed to wholesome experi ences and hobbies, such as model rocketry and radio-controlled aircraft.

Community service is a large part of the pro gram, and the cadets participate in traditional activities, such as posting the colors at a public event.

They also volunteer with Team Red, White & Blue, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich the lives of American veterans by connect ing them to their community through physical and social activity.

Gibson is a member and his cadets have partic ipated in events such as Team Red, White & Blue’s Old Glory Relay from New York to Atlanta when it’s passed through the community.

That event featured teams of runners carrying the American flag in a cross-country relay that included a 40-mile stretch through this area. Gibson let his students participate and they had to do all the planning for the sunrise to sunset run.

“They absolutely had a ball with that. They had so much fun, so much pride in being part of some thing so big,” Gibson said.

Participating students develop confidence, selfdiscipline, self-reliance and learn to work together as a team – skills that are valuable after high school in military or civilian life.

“They’ve got the experience, so they’ll fit in and make a difference right off the bat,” Gibson said.

Journal photo by Anne Ruisi

Journal file

photo by Jordan Wald

Hayden Wald (with his family above) and his father Mike Wald specialize in helping Over the Mountain families purchase and sell their homes.

By Anne Ruisi

What is the ultimate comfort food?

Mashed potatoes and gravy come close, but to many of us, nothing beats macaroni and cheese. The melted cheese in and on top of the casserole stretches out in steaming strings as you scoop a big spoonful onto your plate.

On Nov. 13, Community Grief Support’s junior board will celebrate the South’s ultimate comfort food and welcome its fans to the 5th annual Mac + Cheese Festival.

The festival is part competition, part celebra tion, according to the organizers. An estimated 3,000-plus festivalgoers will taste versions of macaroni and cheese from Birmingham restau rants, food trucks, caterers, corporate teams and home chefs who are competing.

It’s also a fundraiser for Community Grief Support, the nonprofit organization that offers grief counseling and education at no cost and helps support more than 20 grief loss-specific support groups annually.

“The Mac + Cheese Festival has been a com munity tradition for the past five years,” said Erin Slaughter, the nonprofit’s events and mar keting manager and junior board coordinator. “We decided on an annual mac and cheese festi val to represent the comfort that mac and cheese brings, just as Community Grief Support brings comfort to those who are grieving.”

Homey and Exotic Styles Vie for Title

The competition is becoming heated among the 20 or so vendors who will be dishing out samples and vying to win.

“I think we can win because we put Doritos on top of ours,” said Monica Lamm, assistant manager at Soho Social in Homewood.

The restaurant serves an entrée version of Buffalo mac and cheese with fried Buffalo chicken tenders as a signature dish, but she’s not giving away all the secrets of what they’ll be presenting at the festival.

The Details

What: 5th Annual Magic City Mac + Cheese Festival

When: Nov. 13, 1-4 p.m.

Where: Back Forty Beer Company in Birmingham

Why: The festival is a fundraiser for Community Grief Support

Tickets: $15 for “Early Birds,” $20 on the day of the festival, $5 for children 6-12, free for younger kids. Tickets can be bought at the festival website, macfestbhm.com.

Ooey Gooey

Traditional or Avant Garde, Plates of Creamy, Cheesy Pasta Bring Peace

Char Bar 7 at Lane Parke in Mountain Brook is participating for the first time this year, and staff has been “playing around” with ideas, said Sarah DeFilvey, the restaurant’s general manag er. That includes discussions about which type of macaroni will hold the cheese sauce best –elbow or cavatappi.

“Cavatappi has lots of nooks and crannies,” DeFilvey noted, but she would not “confirm or deny” which pasta will best carry the sauce for their creation.

Drew Kramer, who owns Battle Axe’s Food Truck with his wife, Sierra, said their mac and cheese entry is “going to be down-home mac and cheese that you grew up with, as grandma made it.”

He talked about the classic dish’s appeal.

“It’s ooey and gooey. You take a bite and see all that cheese. It intrigues people and it’s com fort food,” Kramer said.

Tweaking ingredients, such as by using dif ferent cheese or substituting half and half or whipping cream for the milk traditionally used in mac and cheese recipes, can take it to the next level, said Jason Quarles, director of dining ser vices at the University of Montevallo.

“We use half and half or whipping cream and it tastes like what you just paid a lot of money for,” at an upscale restaurant, said Quarles, who is not competing at the festival.

Other vendors expected to compete are Porky’s Pride, Urban Cookhouse, Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Café 1918. Red Diamond has signed up, as well as the Fultondale Fire Department, featuring Chief GrillDaddy & The Old Guys.

Competitors said they are happy to support a good cause.

“We got the invitation and we said, ‘Sign us up!’” Lamm said.

It’s also an opportunity to let more people know about their business.

“We can get our name out there a little more and show people what good food tastes like,” Kramer said.

The Mac + Cheese Festival will be a family and pet-friendly event, with live music, a kid’s zone with balloon artists, face painting, crafts and other events. There will also be a local “celebrity” judging panel and other food and beverages for sale on site.

Classic Mac & Cheese

Recipe from Jason Quarles, director of Dining Services at the University of Montevallo

INGREDIENTS:

8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni

¼ cup butter

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2½ cups milk *

2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese **

½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste

Optional topping:

2 tbsp butter, melted

½ cup dry panko style breadcrumbs

1 pinch paprika

DIRECTIONS

1 Preheat oven to 350F and grease an 8x8 square glass baking dish

2 Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and simmer, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 7-8 minutes. It will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta and transfer to a mixing bowl.

3 While the pasta is cooking, melt ¼ cup of butter in a medium skillet or saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown, 4-5 minutes.

4 Gradually whisk the milk into the flour mixture and bring to a simmer. Add 2 cups shredded cheese and grated parmesan, season with salt and pepper to taste and cook, stirring frequently until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken, 4-5 minutes. If sauce appears too thick, thin out with a little more milk. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and mix, then pour the pasta into the greased casserole dish.

5 Top the casserole with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese and the optional breadcrumb topping if you desire, made from blending the melted butter, breadcrumbs and paprika.

6 Bake approximately 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

(*) For a richer recipe, substitute half and half for the milk, or for restaurant-quality richness and ultimate fat content, use 1½ cups half & half and 1 cup whipping cream

(**) You can use pre-shredded cheese, but you’ll have better results from purchasing block cheese and shredding it yourself with a box grater. You can be creative with the cheese – cheddar for classic, white cheddar for sharpness, smoked cheddar or smoked gouda for a twist, even adding a little feta if you so choose. Let your imagination play with the recipe.

Char Bar 7 in Mountain Brook is participating for the first time this year in Community Grief Support’s 5th annual Mac + Cheese Festival. Chef Lamar Woody, above, and the kitchen staff have been “playing around” with ideas, says Sarah DeFilvey, the restaurant’s general manager.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

‘We decided on an annual mac and cheese festival to represent the comfort that mac and cheese brings, just as Community Grief Support brings comfort to those who are grieving.’

ERIN SLAUGHTER, COMMUNITY GRIEF SUPPORT

Chef Stitt and Terry to Take Part in “Food and Community in the South” Discussion at BMA

James Beard award-winning chefs

Frank Stitt and Bryant Terry will be featured in a discussion on “Food and Community in the South” during the 2022 Chenoweth Lecture

Amanda Storey, executive director of Jones Valley Teaching Farm, will be moderator, and chef Ama ‘Ifabagmila’ Shambulia, the owner and operator of A Beautiful Life Enterprises, also will be participating.

The panel will discuss the intercon nectivity of food and community in the American South during the event at the Birmingham Museum of Art on Nov. 3, 6-7 p.m., according to an announce ment from the museum.

The Chenoweth Lectures were established in 1985 by Dr. Arthur I. Chenoweth as a memorial to his broth er and parents, according to the announcement. The purpose of these lectures is to encourage international understanding through the presentation of a variety of subjects by specialists in their fields.

Stitt’s affinity for Southern ingredi ents comes from his roots in rural Alabama. He trained at renowned res taurants and wineries in San Francisco, the south of France, Paris and Florence. When it was time for his own restau rant, he came home to Alabama and opened Highlands Bar & Grill on Birmingham’s Southside. He later fol lowed with Bottega and Chez Fonfon.

Stitt is a leading champion of sus tainable agriculture and humane animal husbandry. He is the author of the

award-winning books “Frank Stitt’s Southern Table,” and “Frank Stitt’s Bottega Favorita.”

In 2018, Highlands Bar & Grill received the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant. Stitt previously received the foundation’s award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2001 and was nominated in 2008 for Outstanding Chef. He also received the Horst H. Schulze Award for Excellence in Hospitality from Auburn University in 2017.

Terry also is renowned for his activ ism to create a healthy, just and sustain able food system. He is a James Beard & NAACP Image Award-winning chef, educator and author, as well as founder and editor-in-chief of 4 Color Books and founder of the creative studio Zenmi. Since 2015, he has been the chef in residence at the Museum of the African Diaspora in San Francisco.

Terry’s most recent book, “Black Food: Stories, Art and Recipes from Across the African Diaspora,” will be available for purchase at the museum

store and can be reserved online, according to the announcement.

Under the leadership of Storey as executive director, the Jones Valley Teaching Farm launched the Ready to Grow capital campaign to build a Center for Food Education on its downtown campus. The farm’s educa tional program Good School Food has grown from one to seven schools in the Birmingham City School system over the past 10 years.

Storey has a background working with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama and the United Way of Central Alabama, as well as at Cooking Light magazine.

Shambulia is an educator and advo cate for wellness who is passionate about sharing whole food plant-based nutrition education, according to the announcement. Her career is built on being a natural foods chef, wellness coach, an “herban” homesteader and “budding” biodynamic gardener.

Shambulia serves on the culinary advisory board of the Jones Valley Teaching Farm’s Center for Food Education, is a member of Hopewell Women in Agriculture and has been accepted into the 2022-23 Milestones Circles Program at the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center for women business owners.

Registration to the event is free and encouraged but not required. To regis ter and for more information, go to artsbma.org, look under “Things to Do” and the “Calendar.”

NOW AVAILABLE AT LITTLE HARDWARE

LET'S FIND THE GRILL THAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU

The Big Green Egg is the highest quality, most versatile and simplest-to-use outdoor cooker you’ll ever own.

Guests strolled through Aldridge Gardens and sampled a variety of foods and drinks at the Taste of Hoover event Oct. 6.

The evening offered participants an opportunity to taste samples from some of the 35 Hoover restaurants, bars and food providers on hand. In turn, the event allowed the establish ments to showcase some of their best dishes and drinks against the back drop of fall in Aldridge Gardens.

The EGG is much more than just a grill … it’s a complete outdoor cooking system engineered to be stronger, more durable and provide better heat retention than any other outdoor cooker on the market.

LITTLE HARDWARE

Terry Hirsch and Sue Sikora

Adam and Andrea Brewer

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Anna Price, Jessica and Charlotte Daviston

Andi and Jason Clemons

Bryant Terry Frank Stitt

artsbma.org

OTM Schools Finding a Football State Championship Hard to Come By

By RuBin E. GRant

In the first 50 years of the Alabama High School Athletic Association football playoff system for all its classifications, which began in 1967, Over the Mountain schools fre quently won state championships.

John Carroll Catholic was the first, in 1973, followed by Homewood in 1974, Mountain Brook in 1975 and 1976, Berry (now Hoover) in 1977 and Vestavia Hills in 1980.

After their initial crowns, the Bucs and Patriots continued to stuff their trophy cases with multiple state titles, but the Rebels had to wait until 1998 for its second championship. John Carroll and Mountain Brook haven’t earned another. The Spartans were runners-up in 1996, their last champi onship game appearance.

Briarwood joined the AHSAA in 1983 but didn’t win its first title until 1998 and claimed another the next year. The Lions also captured a title in 2003.

Oak Mountain, which played its first season in 1999, and Spain Park,

record 13th overall.

The only other OTM school to even appear in a championship game in that span was Briarwood in 2017, which finished as Class 5A runnersup that season.

Since Homewood’s last title in 2005, the Patriots’ sixth overall, Hoover is the only OTM school to win a state title.

What has caused the drought? Is it simply a matter of other football pro grams catching up with OTM schools, having more talent or better coach ing? Or are other factors involved?

With the 2022 state playoffs kick ing off Friday, I reached out to firstyear Vestavia Hills head coach Robert Evans and Mountain Brook head coach Chris Yeager, who is in his 17th season at the helm of the Spartans, for some answers.

Evans was on Vestavia Hills’ 1998 championship team and spent several years as an assistant at both Hoover and Mountain Brook before returning to his alma mater this season. He has guided the Rebels to their first playoff berth since 2019.

Homewood will host McAdory (6-4) and Hoover will host Bob Jones (5-5).

Community-Based Factors

Evans believes the road to a Class 7A title is rather narrow.

“I’ve been on both sides, at places with talent, great coaching, resources and affordable living.”

ties.

“Since the early 2000s, we’ve seen more transition to communities where people have loose community ties,” Yeager said. “Most of our players were born here, grew up here and have relatives who played here.

“When Vestavia won in 1998, they had all homegrown Vestavia kids. But the day of community football teams is just about over.”

For that reason, Evans said, “If we’re able to win a state champion ship it will leave a sweeter taste in my mouth because it will be community based.”

Yeager said part of the reason players leave one community and transfer to schools in another commu nity is what transpires during the off season.

“A lot of these kids play on 7-on-7 teams together and they have some of the best players around, and then they transfer to schools where they can play together,” Yeager said. “I think right now we’ve got some kids that doesn’t affect, although (Spartans junior quarterback) John Colvin and (senior wide receiver) Jackson Beatty played on different 7-on-7 teams.”

whose first season was in 2002, have never won a state title in football, although the Jaguars were runners-up in 2007 and 2015.

But in the past five years, no OTM school has hoisted the AHSAA blue map title trophy. The last one to do so was Hoover in 2017, when the Bucs claimed the Class 7A title, their state

Vestavia Hills (6-4) will travel to Decatur to play Austin (7-3) in a first round Class 7A game Friday. Hoover (9-1) also is in the Class 7A field, while Mountain Brook (8-2) and Homewood (8-2) will be competing in Class 6A.

Mountain Brook will host Pinson Valley (6-3) in the first round,

“The simple fact is, in Class 7A, only four or five teams can win the state championship,” Evans said. “You have Hoover, Hewitt(Trussville) and Thompson in the north (bracket) and Central-Phenix City and Auburn in the south.

“When Hewitt and Thompson decided to commit to football, they started contending for titles. They have money, resources and affordable living in their communities. Those three things are the perfect storm for success. It’s not rocket science.

Thompson is the three-time reign ing Class 7A champion and has appeared in four consecutive champi on games, eliminating Hoover in the semifinals each time. Hewitt has never won a state title but is making its ninth playoff appearance in 10 sea sons.

“I think players are attracted to successful programs,” Evans added. “We want to have success so we can be attractive, too.”

Yeager, who has taken the Spartans to the Class 6A semifinals the past two seasons, believes Thompson and Hewitt have benefited from having more transient communi

Another contributing factor, Yeager said, is that when a school has highly recruited players, it attracts players from elsewhere who want to play with them to receive more expo sure.

“It is what it is,” Yeager said, “but I still think there’s championship-cali ber football being played as far as the Birmingham metro area is concerned. Week in and week out, you’re seeing a rich quality of football.

“I think the model or formula we had for success, with schools and communities investing in their foot ball programs, has been copied in other places.”

of Oak Mountain on Oct. 14.

He accounted for 353 yards total offense and six touchdowns (5 pass ing, 1 rushing) in a 59-18 demolition of Tuscaloosa County on Oct. 21 that secured the Rebels’ first playoff berth since 2019.

He accounted for 331 yards total offense and four touchdowns (1 pass ing, 3 rushing) in a 44-24 shellacking of Helena last week.

Add it all up and that’s 987 yards total offense and 15 touchdowns in three games.

“I don’t know of any player in the state who is more important to his team than JP is to us,” said Robert Evans, Vestavia Hills’ first-year head coach. “As he goes, so we go.”

Evans said it’s remarkable what

Head has done given he didn’t go through spring practice with the Rebels to learn their new offense because he was helping the Rebels’ baseball team reach the Class 7A semifinals. He’s a slugging third base man and college baseball prospect.

“He’s only five months into play ing in our offense,” Evans said. “Our passing reads are important as well as our runs and he’s done both well.”

On the season, Head has account ed for 2,444 yards total offense (1,461 pass, 983 rushing) and 33 touchdowns (14 passing, 19 rushing).

“I think I’ve had a good year for it being my first year as the starting quarterback,” Head said. “I wish we could have gotten a few more wins.”

Dad Steps In

Head is the son of former Vestavia Hills and Ole Miss quarter back Paul Head, but the younger

Head said he doesn’t play the posi tion because of his dad.

“When I played Little League, I played running back,” John Paul Head said. “But as I got older and my dad saw how hard I could throw the football, he started teaching me his wisdom of playing quarterback.

“We talk about football all the time. Every Saturday morning, we break down film.”

At this stage, John Paul Head might be ahead of his dad as a quar terback.

“He won’t admit it, but I’m better than he was,” Head said with a laugh.

Evans believes the younger Head could play football at the next level, although he’s barely 6 feet tall. His dad was three inches taller when he played.

“I think he could play somewhere in college, but he’s only 6-0, 210-

215 pounds,” Evans said. “But I think he’s going to go the baseball route.”

Last spring, Head had a .303 bat ting average with a .473 on-base percentage, eight doubles, a home run, 21 runs scored and seven stolen bases.

Since he won’t be a senior until next year, John Paul Head is keeping his options open.

“I don’t know yet which one I (will) play in college,” he said. “I’m getting a lot more looks in baseball right now.”

That could change if Head con tinues to play quarterback the way he has this season. He missed the second half of Vestavia Hills’ 34-14 loss to Thompson on Sept. 2 because of a concussion that kept him side lined the following week in the Rebels’ 20-14 loss to rival Hoover.

“I was getting thrown around in

that Thompson game,” Head said. “I think I hit my head on the ground.

“I had a concussion once before and it feels like you’re tasting blood in your mouth and you’re dizzy. It took me a week to really feel like I was back to being myself.”

The loss to Hoover left the Rebels with a 1-3 record, but they closed the regular season 5-1 with the only setback coming in a wild 45-37 shootout at Hewitt-Trussville on Oct. 7.

Head is looking forward to the state football playoffs. Vestavia Hills (6-4) will visit Austin (7-3) Friday in a first round Class 7A game.

“I’ve never gotten the experience of playing in the playoffs before,” Head said. “It’s a big deal. I’m real ly ecstatic about to be in it.

“I think on any given day in 7A, any team can beat another team. We’ve just got to play well.”

‘When Vestavia won in 1998, they had all homegrown Vestavia kids. But the day of community football teams is just about over.’

MOUNTAIN BROOK HEAD COACH CHRIS YEAGER

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Homewood’s Parker Sansing (22) makes an interception in the Patriots 34-10 win over Briarwood on Oct. 21. Homewood’s last state title was in 2005. Briarwood, in 2017, finished as Class 5A runners-up.

SPARTANS

second-year head coach. “But that sometimes happens in competition. We played well in spurts but didn’t have any consistency. We had way too many errors on our side and were not playing clean, giving them points. You can’t do that in a semifinal match.

“But give Bayside credit. They have won 21 state championships in a row for a reason.”

The Admirals (53-13), coached by Ann Schilling, earned their 21st con secutive title and 31st overall, both national records, by rallying to beat Spanish Fort 3-2 (20-25, 25-22, 21-25, 25-11, 15-12) Thursday at Bill Harris Arena. It was Bayside’s first Class 6A title, coming in their first season in the classification. The oth ers have come from 1A to 5A.

Mountain Brook, which also won the Class 7A title in 2019, finished with a 38-17 record.

“It’s hard to repeat, but I am proud of the fact that me and my staff were able to put another high-quality team on the court,” Gardner said. “I love these girls. It was a wonderful season and I wish we could have put the cherry on the top, but we still had all

the fixings.”

The Spartans reached the semifi nals by defeating Northridge 3-1 (2511, 25-23, 21-25, 25-17) in the quar terfinals. Mae Mae Lacey led the Spartans’ attack against Northridge with 10 kills and five blocks. Paige Parant had 12 kills, eight digs and two aces, and her twin sister, Hannah Parant, added 33 assists, seven kills, six digs and four blocks. Ann Coleman contributed nine kills.

The Spartans will graduate three seniors – Addie Holden, Anna Frances Adams and Caroline Heck – but the majority of the team will return next year.

“We’re losing three great seniors, but we have a big group of juniors who will be seniors next year,” Gardner said. “I absolutely plan on us coming back next year and winning because I do not forget how it feels losing.”

AHSAA 52nd Elite 8 State Volleyball Championships at the Birmingham CrossPlex.

“It was a very close match,” Wood said. “They were the biggest, most physical team we played all year. When they get into a rhythm, they are a lot more dangerous.

“It was back-and-forth and we just didn’t get the break we needed to pull it out.”

Raegan James led the Bucs’ attack with 15 kills and 17 digs. Setter Maggie Harris had 50 assists and libe ro Bella Guenster had 50 digs. Adair Byars contributed 12 kills and 6 digs and Alanah Pooler had 8 kills and 4 blocks.

Hoover finished the season with a 35-17 record.

In her postgame remarks to the team, Wood said, “I told them I was proud of the growth they’ve shown this year and I would have given any thing to have one more round with them.”

It had been a demanding season for Wood, who replaced the retired Chris Camper. Camper had been Hoover’s head coach for 10 years.

“I never worked so hard in my life, and I’ve never had so much fun,” Wood said. “The girls weren’t afraid to work hard, they played for each other and they celebrated each other. I hated the season ended the way it did.”

Despite losing nine seniors, Wood believes the Bucs have a good nucle us returning to make another run at the state title in 2023.

“We’ll be starting over and will have a lot of work to do, but I think we’ll have a competitive team,” Wood said. “After I decompress, I will be ready to get back to work.”

photo by Marvin Gentry

Three and Out

Mountain Brook’s Volleyball Team Sees Streak of State Championships End

By RuBin E. GRant

Mountain Brook couldn’t get into a flow, and

a result the Spartans’ streak of consecutive

championships

at

The two-time defending Class 6A champion Spartans fell to the record-setting Bayside Academy Admirals 3-1 (25-21, 21-25, 25-18, 25-17) in the semifinals last Wednesday at the 52nd AHSAA Elite 8 State Volleyball Championships at the Birmingham CrossPlex.

“We didn’t bring our best game and I hate that,” said Mattie Gardner, Mountain Brook’s

Painful Loss

Wood Wishes Hoover Volleyball Team Had a Better Season Ending

By RuBin E. GRant

A day after her first season as Hoover’s head volleyball coach had ended, Amanda Wood was in no mood to offer any reflections.

The dejection and disappointment of being eliminated in the Class 7A state tournament was too fresh.

“I am still wallowing in self-misery,” Wood said.

Enterprise narrowly defeated Hoover 3-2 (25-23, 22-25, 25-27, 25-22, 15-12) last Wednesday in the 7A quarterfinals in the

HEAD(Y) STUFF

Rebels’ Junior Quarterback Putting Up Big Numbers

By RuBin E. GRant

John Paul Head would rather not hear it. So please don’t tell him about the eye-pop ping statistics he put up in Vestavia Hills’ final three regular season football games.

“I don’t like to keep count,” Head said. “It could make my ego go up.”

Head getting the big head would be understandable considering what the junior quarterback did in leading the Rebels to victories against Oak Mountain, Tuscaloosa County and Helena.

He accounted for 303 yards total offense and five touchdowns (1 passing, 4 rushing) in a 42-21 rout

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry