OTMJ 12.1.22

In the Whatley’s dining room, textured deep green Scalamandre wallpaper flecked with mica-like chips that shimmer in low light is a stunning setting for the décor.

By

FAMILY Christmas

reasured family heirlooms abound in the Mountain Brook home of Mallie and Jay Whatley, right down to holiday décor such as the angel topping the fragrant 10-foot spruce Christmas tree in the living room.

“That was a gift from my mom,” Mallie Whatley said. “She had it. The wings had broken off and she glued them back on.”

Journal photos by Maury Wald

Anne Ruisi

Mallie Whatley and Micheal Dyer, the owner of Uncut Flowers, have been busy getting the Whatley’s home in Mountain Brook ready for this year’s Independent Presbyterian Church’s 73rd annual Holiday House Tour.

ABOUT TOWN 4 NEWS 10 LIFE 12 SOCIAL 16

HOME 24 FOOD 31 GIFT GUIDE 32 SPORTS 36

With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area.

To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JO U RNA L December 1, 2022

Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald

Copy Editor: Virginia Martin

Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writer: Anne Ruisi

Photographer: Jordan Wald

Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant

Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch

Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd

Murphy’s Law

Vol. 33, No. 9

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2022 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Toilet Paper Countdown

Afew years back, I came up with the idea to make an Advent calendar for my grand children and grandnephews and nieces. I had accumulated a plethora of toilet paper rolls, and having once been a kindergarten teacher, I could not bring myself to throw them away. Besides, for a while there, it was so hard to get the toilet paper itself that the leftover rolls seemed like trophies. So, one day, I set about putting a little treat inside the rolls, one for each day of Advent. The calendars were a hit, and I have repeated the process every year since.

The treats aren’t big things – a small toy, an envelope of hot cocoa, a kazoo. Actually, I only did the kazoos one year. The parents requested I take that out of rotation. Same thing with the jingle bell necklaces. Festive, but annoying, so I substituted colored pens and bags of candy and little wind-up elves. I can’t get in too much trouble with those. The mini-presents will con tinue until Christmas Eve, when the kids unwrap a new fleece blanket to help them snuggle up on the couch and wait for Santa.

I would have loved to have made you guys an Advent calendar, too, but I am limited by this venue and my remaining number of toilet paper rolls, so you will have to settle for a virtual calendar instead. Anyway, here it is, my friends. Start today with #24 and work your way down, one treat each day until you reach Christmas Eve, and if you feel particularly fes tive, throw in a kazoo.

24: A parking spot right up front at the mall

Over the Mountain Views

23: Grocery store shelves full of eggs and sugar and flour … and toilet paper

22: A drive-thru peppermint milk shake

21: When you try on your favorite Christmas dress, it still fits (even after the milkshake)

20: The lights on your Christmas tree all light on the first try

19: All of your online shopping orders arrive on time

18: You don’t draw your annoying ly perfect sister-in-law’s name in the family gift exchange

17: You don’t run out of tape while you’re wrapping gifts

16: Everyone in your book group asks for the recipe for the dip you bring to the Christmas party

15: The church provides the cos tumes for your children in the Christmas pageant

14: The gingerbread houses for your Girl Scout troop project come preassembled

13: When your child’s grade school band plays “Jingle Bells,” they are all in tune

12: Someone says, “You’ve been working your tail off. Take a break. I’ve got this.”

I’m going to run out of space here before I work my way down to gift #1, but just know that I am wishing all good things for you this holiday season. May you have every coupon code you require, a BOGO deal on everything you need, and on Christmas Eve, may you wrap yourself in a fluffy fleece blanket and snuggle down on the couch with the nog of your choice. You will have earned it.

Welcome Back!

THE HOLIDAY CARDS ISSUE returns Dec. 15 and area

elementary students have once again been busy creating beautiful works of art to share with you! Art teachers have been dropping by our office with this year’s batch and it looks to be another great year of holiday greetings. We hope the children’s excitement about the most wonderful time of the year as expressed in these cards warms your heart and brings as much joy to you as it does to us. Riley Sullivan, a first grader at Vestavia Hills Dolly Ridge, caught our atten tion with this card of Santa.

Sue Murphy

I had accumulated a plethora of toilet paper rolls, and having once been a kindergarten teacher, I could not bring myself to throw them away.

‘JUST TAKE THAT STEP’

Jimmie Hale Mission’s new lead er trades career for calling

WHIRLWIND Advent’s new Dean and Rector caught up in celebrating the church’s 150th anniversary

PUTTING ON THE RITZ Caterer talks about food to keep parties and dinners festive PAGE 31

AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE Homewood teen guest stars on ‘Law & Order’

The largest collection of vintage, modern, one-of-a-kind fine jewelry in the Southeast

1922 | 2022 celebrating 100 years

Dazzling choreography, opulent cos tumes and extravagant sets will wow the crowd during the Alabama Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®.

The Alabama Ballet is one of only eight companies in the world granted the right by the Balanchine Trust to perform the full-scale, extravagant production, in which mischievous mice besiege a battalion of toy soldiers, and an onstage bliz zard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets.

This is the 20th consecutive year the Alabama Ballet will have per formed the ballet, set to music by Tchaikovsky, according to a state ment from the ballet.

Nine shows will be performed Dec. 16 through Dec. 23 at the BJCC Concert Hall.

Each year, Alabama Ballet wel comes its Balanchine Trust répétit eur, Darla Hoover, from New York City to work with Artistic Director Tracey Alvey, company members and a community cast of more than 100 children.

Tickets to the shows can be pur chased online at alabamaballet.org, through Ticketmaster or by calling the Alabama Ballet office at 205322-4300. Tickets still available range from $45 to $65.

The Alabama Ballet is a nonprofit that promotes the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high quality performances,

Thurs., Dec. 1

Aldridge Gardens Gifts of Art A one-stop Christmas shopping

dance education and community out reach, according to the statement from the ballet.

Education and outreach activities

event with unique, one-of-a-kind art items from a select list of local artists.

When: 10 a.m.-7p.m. Where: The House at Aldridge Gardens

Open House in Mountain Brook & English Villages

include CityDance, which provides 16 weeks of dance training for youth from Birmingham and Jefferson County.

Special events and discounts will mark this highly anticipated event in Mountain Brook and English villages. When: 5-8 p.m.

The Magical World of Santa’s Circus

Spectacular holiday themed circus beautifully decorated for the season. When: 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Where: Hoover Public Library

Fri., Dec. 2-4

Vulcan Park Magical Nights Holi day

Experience

It’s the opening weekend of a delight ful wonderland filled with holiday lights, holiday music, special guest appearances and Santa. Other dates are Dec. 9-11 and Dec. 16-18. Food, hot chocolate, wine and beer will be available for separate purchase. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: Vulcan Park

Dec. 3, 10, 16 & 17

“The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”

Birmingham Children’s Theatre pres ents “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”. When: Sat., performances 11:30 a.m., Dec. 16 performance, 7 p.m. Where: Birmingham’s Children’s Theatre

Sat., Dec. 3

Gingerbread Jam Gingerbread House competition with

Photo by Eric Lucky

It’s gonna be LIT.

Experience the breathtaking animal lantern creations of Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo November 16 –January 16. Every ticket purchased goes directly to supporting the Zoo and the animals so get yours today at birminghamzoo.com.

Presented by

categories for adults and children to benefit the Megan Montgomery Domestic Violence Prevention Fund. Contestants will have their ginger bread houses on display at this childfriendly event with holiday cheer. When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall

Holiday Market

The Fellowship House Junior Board is hosting a holiday market full of shop ping, charity and Santa! When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Indoors at Sloss Furnaces

Aubie Clause

The Greater Birmingham Auburn Club will host its annual Aubie Clause meet and greet, featuring pictures with Aubie Clause. The club will be col lecting donations for Arc of Central Alabama, including new items such as blankets, gloves, hats, sock packs, slippers, bath sets, movies, journals, colored pencils and sketch pads. When: 9 a.m.-noon Where: Arc of Central Alabama

Bluff Park Christmas Parade

The Bluff Park community will host this annual holiday parade, featuring sea sonally themed floats created by local families, friend groups, community organizations, businesses and more as well as performances by school groups. When: 10 a.m. Where: Shades Cliff Pool

Sun., Dec. 4

Mountain Brook Christmas Parade

The city’s holiday season celebrations culminate with the annual Christmas Parade, featuring floats and per formances by Mountain Brook City Schools cheerleaders, dance teams and bands. The parade begins at Office Park and travels through Moun tain Brook Village. When: 3 p.m.

Ho Ho Hoover-Randle

Hoover-Randle Home will host its annual holiday event featuring per formances, tours and refreshments. Kids 12 and under are admitted free. When: 2-5 p.m. Where: Hoover Randle Home

Ghost Stories for Christmas

Those 18 and older can join us for a live reading of a classic ghost story by award-winning voice actor Matt Godfrey. When: 7-9 p.m. Where: O’Neal Library, Mountain Brook

Tues., Dec. 6

Homewood Lighting of the Star and Christmas Parade

The City of Homewood will celebrate its annual Lighting of the Star in con junction with the Homewood Christ mas Parade. The event will begin with the lighting of the historic Homewood Star over 18th St., followed by the parade at 6:30 p.m. and the lighting of the Christmas Tree at City Hall. When: 6:00 p.m. Where: Downtown Homewood

Auction,

Sounds of the Season

Dessert and Symphonic

Music Part of Program to Raise

Money

for Work on Adolescent Cancers

The ballroom at the new Vestavia Hills Civic Center will be the setting for the Sounds of the Season fundraiser Dec. 9 for the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

RISE, a semester-long, service-learning project sponsored by Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills for students at Vestavia Hills High School, is hosting the event, which is being presented by The Prewitt Group.

Those attending the event can make bids in a silent auction of fine art by local artists. Dessert will be served, after which the Alabama Symphony Orchestra will perform.

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. for the silent auction and dessert, with the ASO performance at 8 p.m. The dress code calls for jackets required.

Tickets are $50 per person and are available at go.uab.edu/vhhsrise.

All of the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program’s budget is fund ed by RISE, according to a page on UAB’s website about RISE and its fund raising on behalf of young adults with cancer. It is lead by Dr. Julie Wolfson and works under the auspices of the O’Neal Cancer Center.

The center and Children’s of Alabama have partnered to devote research efforts to determine what leads to adolescents’ and young adults’ poor cancer outcomes.

The program aims to answer the questions of why cancer affects this age group differently, what treatments lead to the best long-term outcomes for patients with particular diagnoses, and how the quality of life for patients posttreatment can be improved.

Wed., Dec. 7

Niki Sepsas will present a program about the attack on Pearl Harbor that took place on Dec. 7, 1941 and changed the course of history for a generation of Americans and the world. When: 1-2 p.m. Where: Home wood Public Library, large auditorium

Sat., Dec. 10

Breakfast with Santa Vestavia Hills’ annual Holiday in the Hills event series continues with this familyfriendly pancake breakfast, including meet and greets with Santa Claus. No Reservations are needed and the event is free to the public. When: 7:30-10 a.m. Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center.

Birmingham Girls Choir Holiday Concert

The Birmingham Girls Choir features three different choirs, with students ranging from kindergarten through 12th grade, with a goal to instill excellence and build community among girls who love to sing through the power of choral singing. When: 3 p.m. Where: The Summit in Saks Plaza

Sun., Dec. 11

Walk for a Claus

The Homewood Santa Claus Soci ety is holding its fourth annual Walk for a Claus, a 1.5-mile walk through Homewood that begins and ends at Grocery Brewpub. The walk is open only to men ages 21 and older, who must wear a Santa Claus suit. Golf carts, side by sides, ATVs and deco rated Christmas floats are allowed. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Mike Slive Foundation to raise awareness of prostate cancer. When: Starts at 2 p.m. Where: Grocery Brewpub, Homewood.

Merry & Bright

The Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra will host two performances while folks shop for the holidays. When: 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Where: Riverchase Galleria

Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade

The city of Vestavia Hills’s annual holiday parade will include floats and performers traveling along Liberty Parkway from the Liberty Park Sports Complex to Alston Meadows. When: 2 p.m. Where: Liberty Park

“Air Raid… Pearl Harbor… This is Not a Drill!”

2023 RISE Chairs: Sam Cunningham, Miller Murray, Livi Cate Osborne, Sarah Jane Richardson, and Joe Eshleman.

Courtesy

Glow Wild Lantern Creations Light Up the Night at the Birmingham Zoo

Get ready for the Birmingham Zoo’s larger-than-life illuminated expe rience, Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration.

This event, which opened last month, will be held on select nights through Jan. 16. Check dates when purchasing tickets online.

The zoo will come alive with color ful wild animal and sea life lantern creations lighting up the night. Tigers, penguins, zebras, giraffes and other animals have been featured in previous Glow Wild events.

The animals will not be viewable since this is a night event, running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Rides on the Red Diamond Radiant Express Train and the Protective Life

For

go to

Jingle Bell Carousel will be available for a separate charge.

more information and a link to buy tickets,

birminghamzoo.com/ events/glowwild.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Birmingham Zoo

Mon., Dec. 12

Little Free Library Ribbon Cutting and Reception

Ribbon cutting ceremony by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce for the Friends Bookstore’s new Little Free Library When: 1-2 p.m. Homewood Library

Tues., Dec. 13

Birmingham Boys Choir Christ mas Concert

Members of the Birmingham Boys Choir will regale audiences with holi day favorites with this annual concert. This year’s concert will include per formances by more than 30 fathers as well as a number of BBC alums.

When: 7 p.m. Where: Samford Uni versity’s Wright Center

VHCS Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Vestavia Hills City Schools will host a ceremony to induct its second class of Hall of Fame members, including Kelly Bagby, Brian Cain, Karen Del ano, Kimberly McBride, and Audrey Pharo. When: 7 p.m. Where: Hills High School

Dec. 13, 15, 20, 22

Wacky Tacky Light Tour

The 11th annual tour will include 12, 13 and 32-passenger buses leaving every 15 minutes from 6-7:30 p.m.

Are

to help end epilepsy?

‘Just Take That Step’

Jimmie Hale Mission’s New Leader Trades Career for Calling

By Anne Ruisi

Perryn Carroll remembers the first time she saw homeless men outside the downtown Jimmie Hale Mission.

“To me there is nothing worse than being alone and without a home,” she recalled thinking at the time as she and her husband, Mike Carroll, drove home one day from their law practice. She resolved to do something to help.

Twenty-five years later, with more than two decades of volunteer service, including membership on the board of directors, Carroll is now Jimmie Hale’s executive director.

“It’s so exciting to go from a career to a calling,” said Carroll, who practiced general civil law with her husband for 32 years until September, when she became the mission’s exec utive director following a national search that drew 60 applicants.

As executive director, Carroll oversees a $6 million annual budget that is funded totally by donations. There are 68 full- and part-time staff working at Jimmie Hale’s three cam puses.

These are:

• The Shepura Men’s Facility in the former Thomas School on Second Avenue North, with services for 80 men. This site also includes the mis sion’s offices.

• Jessie’s Place, a downtown shel ter for up to 20 women and their chil dren facing homelessness and other hardships, founded in 1998.

• Royal Pines, a residential addic tion recovery center for men that opened in 1995 on 75 acres in Hayden, in Blount County. It minis ters to 40 men.

That’s about 130 people who each and every day, for 365 days a year, receive assistance in Jimmie Hale’s recovery programs, including those who have gone through the program and are learning basic skills to move back into the community and live independently.

“The homeless and hurting, you need to give them a hand up to come

MEDICARE EDUCATION

CLASSES

DECEMBER 12TH

A fun, free educational class focused on helping individuals better understand Medicare. Learn what questions to ask, when and how to enroll. When: 5:30 p.m. Where: 2116 Colum biana Rd., 205-704-9020

out of that life,” Carroll said.

From Drunk to a Mission

The mission has been a mainstay of social and spiritual services in Birmingham for almost 80 years. Its namesake, Jimmie Hale, was known as the town drunk in the late 1930s and early 1940s, according to the mission’s website, jimmiehalemission.com.

He eventually turned his life over to Christ and “wanted to share God’s life-changing love with others, and to help those walking where he had,” according to the website. Jimmie set out “to create a place where homeless men could find encouragement and hope,” it continued.

Hale and his wife, Jessie, founded the mission in March 1944. He died eight months later due to health com plications, leaving behind his pregnant widow. Jessie Hale was resolved to carry on the work and kept the facility alive for a decade on her own until Leo Shepura led the nonprofit.

During the past 78 years, the mis sion grew from one storefront to the three facilities it now has, Carroll said last month when she spoke about the nonprofit at the Homewood Chamber of Commerce meeting.

While substance abuse, including alcoholism, has long been a cause of homelessness, what has changed are the types of substances available in every community, she said.

“They’re more plentiful, easier to get and more powerful than ever before. So the issue is more serious and more pervasive. It’s in every neighborhood. It’s every day. And I would dare to say you’d be hard pressed to find a family” not affected by it, Carroll said.

The mission developed the 15-week active recovery program to address the issues of substance use and the causes of substance abuse. This program has a long-term success rate of more than 40%, which is higher than average, Carroll said.

“I credit that to the holistic take and spiritual aspect” of the recovery pro gram, which is deeply rooted in Christianity, she said.

“You’re going to hear about Jesus here.”

That holistic approach includes helping clients make other changes necessary to live successfully in soci ety. For example, there is a literacy program to help those who can’t read, a GED program and short-term work

certificate programs, and some of the clients go on to earn associate degrees at community colleges.

Two program participants are now preparing to go to four-year colleges; one will study mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama and the other will study astrophysics at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Carroll said

Renovations Ahead

Upcoming projects Carroll is over seeing include the current $4 million capital campaign to renovate the men’s dormitory at the Second Avenue North campus. So far, the mission has received a $750,000 affordable hous ing grant and a $2 million pledge from Philip McWane.

Dormitory living space now con sists of rows of bunkbeds and one bathroom per floor. The renovation calls for upgrading to four-person “pods,” where each pod will have its own bathroom and each man will have his own space with a bed, side table, lamp and a reading chair, Carroll said.

The project also will include improvements to Jessie’s Place, which needs a new HVAC system and addi tional space for the kitchen at Royal Pines. Installing central air at Royal Pines is another project the mission wants to do, as the facility only has window units.

Another future plan for Royal Pines is adding a large garden where the residents can grow vegetables, providing fresh food for their table and at the other two campuses. Extra produce could be sold, perhaps at a farmer’s market like Pepper Place, which would help the men learn entre preneurial skills, Carroll said.

The mission is welcoming new volunteers after having to limit oppor tunities during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Information for potential volunteers is available at jim miehalemission.com/get-involved/vol unteer.

Carroll encourages people to vol unteer with their children, as she and her husband did with their own sons.

“Just take that step,” she said.

HHS Food Drive

Feeds 300+ Families

Hoover High School’s food drive this year collected enough food to feed more than 300 families, according to a state ment from the school system. Students and employees participated in the drive, which is part of the “Thankful to be a Buc” campaign. This is the second year the school has conducted the food drive. Food collected goes to two Hoover Food pantries – Green Valley Baptist Church and Bluff Park United Methodist Church.

Development Director Tapped as Community Food Bank New CEO

The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama has appointed Nicole Williams as chief executive officer.

Williams, who took the CEO’s spot as of Nov. 18, was recruited to the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama in November 2020 as the bank’s first director of development, according to a press statement from the bank.

Williams, of Hoover, has experi ence in the nonprofit sector from past roles at community organizations such as the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Sight Savers America, Kid One Transport and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

She has served as the bank’s inter im executive director since appoint ment in late February 2022 and has

experience managing federally, locally and privately funded projects, a plus in leading the bank in its current growth and expansion.

“I’m honored to lead the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama,” Williams said. “One in 5 people experience food insecurity in central Alabama, and this need has been amplified in recent years due to the pandemic, supply chain issues and inflation. Together as a community, we can support our neighbors in need.

“Along with our agency partners, donors, board and staff, we can bring hope and nourishment to those who experience hunger. I look forward to continuing the great work of the Food Bank as we work toward our mission to feed people in need today and foster collaborative solutions to end hunger tomorrow.”

Mary Alice Kline, president of the Community Food Bank’s board, expressed her support for Williams.

“Nicole has played a crucial role in the transformation and growth of the Food Bank, and this promotion acknowledges her strength as a leader, Kline said. “Her tenacity, fortitude and unwavering commitment in our people and community make her a natural choice for this position.”

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Perryn Carroll became Jimmie Hale’s executive director in September.

Nicole Williams Courtesy

Whirlwind

By RuBin E. GRant

The Rev. Craig Smalley has been caught up in a whirlwind for the past six months, but he hasn’t been blown away.

Since being tabbed in May as the dean and rector at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Smalley has been engaged in a whirlwind of activ ity, including getting ready to com memorate the church’s 150th anniver sary with a special service Dec. 4.

“It’s been wonderful, but personal ly it has been a whirlwind,” Smalley said.

Smalley joined the Advent in 2006, serving on the clergy staff under the Rev. Frank Limehouse. He has served in a number of capacities, including canon for Christian educa tion, canon missioner, canon for pas toral care, and chaplain to the day school. He had served as interim dean for a year when he was called to serve as the dean and rector.

“I certainly have more responsibil ity and I’m still trying to figure it out,

but I am grateful to be a part of such a great ministry,” Smalley said. “It’s a place I love and a place my family loves.”

Smalley and his wife, Paula, have three grown children: Jack, Maizie and Sally.

“I’m getting more comfortable and as I continue to get settled in, I’m get ting more excited,” Smalley said. “Going forward, we’re looking to continue what we’ve been doing but also with the different challenges to see what that moment looks like and how we should serve in that moment.”

In October, the Advent celebrated its founding with a special evening of fellowship. On Nov. 17, the Cathedral Choir held a special citywide Choral Evensong in celebration of the par ish’s founding.

“Celebrating the 150th anniversary has been incredibly energizing,” Smalley said. “One of the thrills of looking back at the history is we get to see how the church has navigated the fat times and lean times, growing and thriving and not growing and thriving, being very much a part of Birmingham’s ups and downs. The grace of God has carried us.”

Begun Shortly After Civil War

Alice Bowsher, who has been a member of the Advent for more than 40 years, has served as the church’s historiographer since 1996. She put together a historical record of the church.

“Having grown up in Birmingham as an Episcopalian, and recently returned from Washington, D.C., I liked the idea of being downtown in the heart of the city, in a church that drew people from the greater Birmingham community,” Bowsher said. “Being the church’s historiogra pher gave me an opportunity to dig more deeply into the history of the Advent and to reflect on its meaning through the lens of ministry and

From

faith.”

Her historical record details how in 1871 – six years after the end of the Civil War – a small group of Southern planters, investors and rail road men organized the Elyton Land Company to buy 4,150 acres in north central Alabama with the intention of creating an industrial center and reap

Thus, from the beginning, the Advent’s heritage has been one of new beginnings, deep faith, continuity and adaptation to change. Its heritage includes pastoral care, symbolized by the statue of the compassionate Christ overlooking downtown Birmingham from the church’s 20th Street façade, expressing Christ’s invitation to ‘come unto me, all ye that travail and are heavy laden, and I will refresh you.’”

She also includes how women of the church have played a central role in shaping the church’s heritage, “contributing energy, dedicated ser vice and significant funds, seen in recent times in the annual Lenten lunches.”

Celebration Plans

The celebration Sunday will be an all-day affair. At the 9 a.m. service, the Advent Episcopal School Choral Ensemble will lead the congregation in worship, joined by members of the Cathedral Choir and the Ambassador Brass Quintet.

At the 11 a.m. service, the Advent’s Cathedral Choir will be accompanied by the Ambassador Brass Quintet, leading a special cele bration of the Lord’s work at the church. And after the 5 p.m. service, there will be a potluck dinner in Clingman Commons.

“What’s so exciting about the cele brations is you get to see so many new faces and old, those who have spent their entire lives at the church and young faces who are just begin ning their time at the Advent,” Smalley said. “It’s been wonderful not only looking back but also look ing forward. We’re going to continue to share the gospel, holding out the word of life, as long as God allows.”

ing the rewards.

The following year, for the sum of $5, the Elyton Land Company gave five church congregations deeds to property in the new town, including the Advent.

Bowsher writes, “The city’s (and the church’s) first decades brought challenges, including a cholera epi demic and economic hard times.

“The Advent’s role in the life and development of the city of Birmingham, its sense of commitment to the city center and the needs of all citizens, is another motif running through decades of church life, as are strong preaching and teaching, shaped by each rector and dean’s interests and a committed congregation,” Bowsher said. “History tells us that the Advent’s heritage continues to evolve, reaffirmed and reshaped as the life of the church goes on.”

Since being tabbed in May as the Dean and Rector at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Rev. Craig Smalley has been engaged in a whirlwind of activity, including getting ready to commemorate the church’s 150th anniversary with a special ser vice on Sunday, Dec. 4.

Advent’s New Dean and Rector Caught Up in Celebrating the Church’s 150th Anniversary

‘History tells us that the Advent’s heritage continues to evolve, reaffirmed and reshaped as the life of the church goes on.’

ALICE BOWSHER

Journal photos by Maury Wald

Cathedral Church of the Advent

Cancer Survivor

By HannaH EcHols

The summer before Cameron Monistere started his senior year at Auburn University, he felt a lump in his throat. This was not the anxietyinduced, metaphorical kind. It was a physical one on his lymph node.

When the lump did not disappear after a few days, he decided to go to a local urgent care clinic to get it evalu ated. Worst case, he thought, he was coming down with some sort of cold. Several checkups later, Monistere still

had the lump and a nagging sensation he was dealing with something more than a swollen lymph node.

Instead of ignoring it, Monistere went to a local ear, nose and throat specialist for testing. Then he made a trip home to Vestavia Hills and had experts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham examine his results.

He was right – there was some thing more. The lump in his throat was nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the rarest form of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“I was in disbelief,” Monistere said. “No one expects to be diagnosed with cancer, especially while in col lege. I was worried about my health and also worried that I would miss out on my senior year.”

Monistere, who is a cheerleader at Auburn, met with experts in the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB to evaluate his diagno sis and treatment options. To his relief, while rare, NLPHL was a treat able and non-aggressive form of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He had the option to postpone treatment until after his senior year and the cheer season, but his doctors urged him to tackle his cancer directly.

“Cameron had early stage NLPHL, which is the only stage where there is not only a chance to treat the cancer, but potentially cure it,” said Dr. Amitkumar Mehta, associate profes sor in the Division of Hematology & Oncology at the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine. “We wanted to find a plan that would treat his cancer and still allow him to cheer and fully participate in his senior year.”

Infusions were step one. Next, he would undergo radiation, which car ried the risk of damage to other areas surrounding his lymph node, specifi cally around his throat and mouth. The side effects of radiation worried Monistere, who is set to graduate from Auburn’s culinary science pro gram in May. An aspiring chef, he was eager to keep his taste and smell.

Vestavia Hills High School graduate Cameron Monistere was diagnosed with a rare form of Hodgkin’s lymphoma right before his senior year at Auburn.

Auburn University

An Amazing Experience

Homewood Teen Guest Stars on ‘Law & Order’

By Anne Ruisi

Just this past summer, Homewood High senior Isaiah Pierce, who was active in his school’s theater program, signed up for a summer acting pro gram at Acting Out! Performing Arts Academy in Vestavia Hills.

Two months after the new school year began, he was a guest star on “Law & Order.”

“It was incredible. It was an amaz ing experience all around,” Isaiah said. He spent four days in New York to film the episode “12 Seconds,” which was broadcast Oct. 27.

IMDb describes the episode as one in which the series’ detectives “piece together the clues of what happened to a murdered law student, uncover ing a web of blackmail and lies.”

Isaiah’s character, Cyrus Nichols, gets caught up in the case by dealing with the blackmailing of his on-screen father.

While his gig on Law & Order is his first on a professional set, it wasn’t his initial venture into acting. He’s been active in Homewood’s the ater program and told his mother, Rosalyn Pierce, he wanted to get into acting as a profession. Someone she knew suggested he look into attending Acting Out! and Isaiah signed up for the summer program.

Homewood High senior Isaiah Pierce has been active in Homewood’s theater program and told his mother, Rosalyn Pierce, he wanted to get into acting as a profession. He recently made a guest star appearance on “Law & Order”.

“He came to every single class. He was always early, always prepared and ready to work,” said Meg Deusner, the academy’s owner. Isaiah recorded scenes he was

‘The minute I met him I knew there was something special about him.’ MEG DEUSNER

oping young actors.

“She was immediately interested in Isaiah,” Deusner said.

Marks, who is with A3 agency, flew into Birmingham for last sum mer’s intensive acting camp and met Isaiah. She became his manager and now he has a team of people who are developing his career, Deusner said.

Isaiah won the role on Law & Order in August and flew to New York with his mother for filming. He worked 10-hour days on Monday and Tuesday and returned home on Wednesday.

The holidays are time for getting together with family.

working on, which Deusner sent to Lynne Marks, a talent manager in Los Angeles known for finding and devel

If you notice that someone in your family needs some extra care and attention, give us a call at Always Best Care.

If you notice that someone in your family needs some extra care and attention, give us a call at Always Best Care.

The holidays are

If you notice that someone in your family needs some extra care and attention, give us a call at Always Best Care.

If you notice that someone in your family needs some extra care and attention, give us a call at Always Best Care.

As the only home healthcare company in the state of Alabama to be accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Healthcare (ACHC) and the National Association of Home Care and Hospice (NAHC), Always Best Care has served hundreds of seniors and disabled individuals in Birmingham. Services provided by Certified Nurse Aides (CNA’s) include personal care, transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders and companionship.

As the only home healthcare company in the state of Alabama to be accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Healthcare (ACHC) and the National Association of Home Care and Hospice (NAHC), Always Best Care has served hundreds of seniors and disabled individuals in Birmingham. Services provided by Certified Nurse Aides (CNA’s) include personal care, transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders and companionship.

As the only home healthcare company in the state of Alabama to be accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Healthcare (ACHC) and the National Association of Home Care and Hospice (NAHC), Always Best Care has served hundreds of seniors and disabled individuals in Birmingham. Services provided by Certified Nurse Aides (CNA’s) include personal care, transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders and companionship.

As the only home healthcare company in the state of Alabama to be accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Healthcare (ACHC) and the National Association of Home Care and Hospice (NAHC), Always Best Care has served hundreds of seniors and disabled individuals in Birmingham. Services provided by Certified Nurse Aides (CNA’s) include personal care, transportation, meal preparation, medication reminders and companionship.

Always Best Care combines high touch and high tech through frequent in-home checkups, free balance testing, as well as 7x24 smart technology monitoring.

Always Best Care combines high touch and high tech through frequent in-home checkups, free balance testing, as well as 7x24 smart technology monitoring.

Always Best Care combines high touch and high tech through frequent in-home checkups, free balance testing, as well as 7x24 smart technology monitoring.

Always Best Care combines high touch and high tech through frequent in-home checkups, free balance testing, as well as 7x24 smart technology monitoring.

Here is what one of our client’s family member had to say about Always Best Care:

Here is what one of our client’s family member had to say about Always Best Care: “I would like to express my appreciation for the in-home care you provided to us after my wife’s surgery. We were very pleased with the caregivers from Always Best Care. They were very helpful during a difficult time. It was comforting to know that all of the caregivers were Certified Nurse Aides. We would recommend your services to anyone in search of quality care for their loved ones. Thanks to your caregivers for their excellent help.” – B.M

Here is what one of our client’s family member had to say about Always Best Care:

“I would like to express my appreciation for the in-home care you provided to us after my wife’s surgery. We were very pleased with the caregivers from Always Best Care. They were very helpful during a difficult time. It was comforting to know that all of the caregivers were Certified Nurse Aides. We would recommend your services to anyone in search of quality care for their loved ones. Thanks to your caregivers for their excellent help.” – B.M

“I would like to express my appreciation for the in-home care you provided to us after my wife’s surgery. We were very pleased with the caregivers from Always Best Care. They were very helpful during a difficult time. It was comforting to know that all of the caregivers were Certified Nurse Aides. We would recommend your services to anyone in search of quality care for their loved ones. Thanks to your caregivers for their excellent help.” – B.M

Here is what one of our client’s family member had to say about Always Best Care: “I would like to express my appreciation for the in-home care you provided to us after my wife’s surgery. We were very pleased with the caregivers from Always Best Care. They were very helpful during a difficult time. It was comforting to know that all of the caregivers were Certified Nurse Aides. We would recommend your services to anyone in search of quality care for their loved ones. Thanks to your caregivers for their excellent help.” – B.M

Always Best Care, 6 Office Park Circle, Suite 315, Mountain Brook, AL 35223, 205-874-9730, jmancuso@abc-seniors.com

Always Best Care, 6 Office Park Circle, Suite 315, Mountain Brook, AL 35223, 205-874-9730, jmancuso@abc-seniors.com

The holidays are time for getting together with family.

The holidays are time for getting together with family.

time for getting together with family.

Courtesy

From

Since this was Isaiah’s first profes sional acting job, director David Grossman explained everything relat ed to “behind the scenes and how it’s all done,” Isaiah said.

He also absorbed plenty of infor mation about the profession from the actors he worked with, all of whom advised him to go to college before pursuing a full-time acting career, Isaiah said. Veteran actor Charles Parnell, who played his father, told him college could help “strengthen your craft,” Isaiah said.

Isaiah is thinking about college after he graduates from Homewood

High next spring but is undecided.

Committing to four years of study –even at his dream school, Julliard –has to be weighed against losing four years of performing opportunities to advance his career.

“Two to four years is a long time not to pursue roles,” he said.

As Isaiah was 17 at the time of filming and underage, his mother had to be present on the set when he was, a novel experience for her.

One of the show’s writers explained the show’s production pro cess, which she said was “really inter esting.”

“I was really just taking it all in,” Rosalyn Pierce said.

Isaiah had a tutor who worked with him to make sure he kept up

From page 13

On Sept. 3, when Monistere cheered for Auburn’s first home game, he had undergone all four immunotherapy treatments and felt good. On Nov. 1, he learned from his doctors that his scans were complete ly clear less than five months after being diagnosed with NLPHL.

With football season now over, Monistere still has basketball season to look forward to before graduation.

“I never thought I would need a physician while in college. I am young, never had any serious health concerns and am a collegiate cheer

leader,” Monistere said. “I hope my journey will be an example to others, especially college men. We need to listen to our bodies. If something feels wrong, don’t ignore it. Take the time to go to your doctor for check ups and screenings.”

Monistere’s attention to his health may have saved him from more sig nificant medical issues.

“It is important that we are upfront about our symptoms and take initiative when it comes to our health,” Mehta said. “Cameron is strong and focused and was ready to take on the challenge. That is not always the case when it comes to young people, especially younger men.”

with his studies.

Back at home, when he’s not working on his acting skills, Isaiah enjoys drawing, listening to music –mainly Indie pop and Indie folk – and spending time with his friends.

Isaiah now is listed on IMDb, with the “Law & Order” episode listed as his only professional experience – for now. That list is likely to grow.

“The minute I met him I knew there was something special about him,” Deusner said. “I believe he’s going to go far.”

Holiday Hours

Open Tue. - Sat., starting 11/29

Open Mon. - Sat., starting 12/12 Closed Chritmas Eve

1901 Oxmoor Rd. | Homewood 205-870-5544

To: Mary Charles

From: Over the Mountain Journal 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax

November 2022

Mary Charles' Doll House Dolls, Doll Houses and Miniatures

SOCIAL

The Club was the setting Nov. 17 for the “Finish the Fight” Iron Bowl Casino Party, this year with a cruise theme.

Partygoers took part in casino games, a wine pull and liquor toss, and a silent auction, among other activities.

The event was a fundraiser for the Reed Gastrointestinal Oncology Research Foundation’s Finish the Fight. Money raised will be used to fund research, awareness and patient care for those affected by GI can cers.

CASINO CRUISE

Finish the Fight Iron Bowl Party Targets GI Cancers

Molly Miller, Charlie Regan, Patti Ann Randolph, Ann and Rusty Sears

Kathy Pope, Dena Hughes, Catherine Owen, Patricia Murray, Christy Baynes and Abbey Sheehan

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Julia and Stephen Crigler

Marty and Amy Heslin and Ann Hayes and John Beauchamp

Anna Pizzitola, Greg Wallace and Anna Leigh Rumbley

Dylan Surver and Bethany Pappas

Maddison Bromberg, Patty Bromberg and Everett Russell

David Beal, Emily Perino and Andrew Reed

Maggie Beasley and Elena Cassinelli

Friends Jewelry. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Colette Scott, Susan Sheedy, Shanette Daigle and Laurel Bassett

Norma Barelare, Pat Morgan, Pat Imms and Pam Roberts

Terry

Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s Masterworks performance Oct. 28 featured Beethoven’s Third Symphony, “Erioica,” at the Alys Stephens Center.

The Symphony Volunteer Council sponsored the performance and pre sented ASO Executive Director Mark Patrick with a check for $225,000, which was raised at the spring 2022 Decorators’ ShowHouse, at Hallmark Farms. About 10,000 people toured the iconic landmark in Warrior dur ing the event.

SVC Past President Bloetscher, along with Decorators’ ShowHouse chairmen and Cheryl Floyd, were on stage to Others attending

Gary and Pam Wood, Libby McCurry, Brandy Spears and Andy McCurry

Zane Rhoades, Gail Bauer and Robert Raiford

Courtesy

Market

Noel

Junior League Sponsors Early Holiday Sale and Preview

Guests who wanted a sneak peek at items for sale during the Junior League of Birmingham’s Market Noel attended a preview the day before the sale, on Nov. 16.

Market Noel is a major fundraiser for the league. The preview drew patrons for an evening of private shopping from about 100 merchants selling clothing, jewelry, home décor, holiday items and other goodies.

Music from the main stage encour aged dancing, and old and new friends socialized as they supported the Junior League and its charities. The first 100 people to arrive received a signature swag bag, and shoppers could try for a chance to win the Diamond Drop, Cigar Drop or Tipsy Toss. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

June Clark, Martina Winston, Lindsey Anderson, Jayna Goedecke and Haley Scallions

Ashley Gooden, Sarah Grace Pugh, Audrey Pannell and Ryleigh Esco

Erica Huffman, Amanda Warren and Christi Williamson

Michael and Rachel Johnson

Lori Stephens and Sarah Capra

Eli and Sophie Henderson

Rehab Reality...

by Judy Butler

A Testimonial In Poetry

We receive many testimonials from clients and their families, but this is the first we’ve received in the form of a poem. This is one of many poems this client wrote and published while dedicating her book to Bayshore Retreat. It reminds us of what we’ve created with Bayshore Retreat and of lives saved and those lost to addiction.

The changes I’m making are oh so sweet.

Since renewing my spirit at Bayshore Retreat.

Through sobriety I can handle the challenges I meet.

It will keep me centered, grounded and on my feet.

As I grow in spirit, body and mind.

I wait with excitement, the new me I will find.

And reflection of past will always remind.

That living clean and sober is a very fine line.

The people I’ve met here have enriched my soul.

They help me resolve in life, what’s my role.

Through work and reflection, I am able to work towards a goal. And extinguish the abuse and it’s terrible toll.

To rejoice in the person that is uniquely me

And give me the courage to truly live free.

Like a soldier, I learn to be all I can be.

And rekindle my life, and of God, live with thee.

Julie I. - 9/16/2017

No one plans to be an addict. It can begin with one careless decision or in many other innocent ways. The deci sion to get help is the most important one you’ll ever make.

When we say, “Bayshore Retreat is different and can make a difference” those aren’t just words, they are heart felt and based on experience.

On the Runway

Ballet Women’s Committee Highlights Local Retailers During Fashion Show

Fashions from local boutiques were in the spotlight as the Ballet Women’s Committee held its Fall Extravaganza Luncheon, Fashion Show & Silent Auction at the Vestavia Country Club on Nov. 10. The event was a fundraiser for The Alabama Ballet. The commit tee is the presenter of the annual Poinsettia Ball. ❖

5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 980-9030

southeasternjewelers.net (1/4 mile off 280)

Left, Sharon Maddox, Liz Guest, Melissa McMurray, April Morin, Gracie Small and Angie Saia. Below, Dalana Moore and Vicky Malouff.

Meagen Carter, Gracie Small and Abby Wolbach

Lynette Mantooth, Jennifer Dillon and Christine Dobbs

Taylor and Elizabeth Ann Burton Debbie Stidham and Ashley Seligson

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Hoover Service Club Raises Funds Through Tablescapes Luncheon

The Hoover Service Club held its annual Gathering to Give Tablescapes luncheon to raise money for student scholarships Nov. 17 at the Hoover Country Club.

The featured guest speaker was Melissa Lester, editor of Hoffman Media’s Victoria magazine and the magazine’s upcoming book, “The Art of Beautiful Tables.” Tables at the event were decorated by service club members, and a wine draw and silent

auction were offered.

Winners of the Tablescapes contest were, first place, Betty Daigle and Selina Ratliff for their table, “BEE Amazing,” and in second place, Libby Davis for her table, “Apply Season.”

Since the Hoover Service Club’s founding in 1975, more than $550,000 has been donated to the community in scholarships and chari table donations. ❖

Mitzi Eaker and Missy Wertz

Kathy Hall, Heather Pierce and Susette Clark-Walker

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Open House

Five Houses Decorated in Holiday Themes to Be Showcased During the Legacy League’s 12th Annual Christmas Home Tour

By Sharon Smith

This year’s Samford Legacy League Christmas Home Tour offers tours of five homes decorated for the holidays along with festive treats and a selec tion of pop-up shops.

The tour will take place Dec. 8. Presented by ARC Realty, the 2022 slate of homes includes two Mountain Brook residences and three Vestavia Hills residences that are an array of ages, architectural and interior styles and holi day décor.

Premium Sponsors of this year’s event are AllSouth Appliance, Community Bank, Cox

The Legacy League tour raises money to provide transformational scholarships for stu dents with significant financial need and chal lenging life circumstances. That includes stu dents who have endured obstacles such as homelessness, inner city violence, death or dis ability of a parent, foster care, abandonment, parental addiction or incarceration, or the sacri fices of full-time ministry.

Since its inception, the event has featured nearly 50 different houses and raised more than $300,000.

“We love how the community comes togeth er to participate in this special fundraiser,” said Julie Taylor, executive director of the Legacy League and Samford University’s first lady. “It truly is a gift to those who attend and to the stu dents whose lives are forever changed by the

scholarships the event supports.”

These are the houses being showcased on this year’s tour:

Kathryn and Doug Eckert

2900 Overhill Road, Mountain Brook

Built in 1935, the Eckerts’ home has changed significantly over the years through multiple additions that enhanced its beauty and function ality. Architect Jeremy Corkern has worked on the home three times, twice for the previous owners before being engaged by the Eckerts in 2018.

In designing the most recent renovation, “We reimagined their house,” Corkern said, “turning the living room into a beautiful dining room,

turning a study into a paneled office for Doug and adding a breakfast room.” The Eckerts also added a sitting room off the master bedroom, renovated the library and expanded the lower level.

During this major construction, the portcochere was enclosed to create a chapel that fea tures art, antique pews and a floor made of reclaimed French terra cotta tiles. After an extensive search, a 19th century English altar was found in New Orleans and acquired for the Eckerts’ chapel.

Though the Eckerts have a chapel in their home, they have a tradition of attending mid night mass at their church on Christmas Eve. Returning home, they enjoy hot cocoa and snacks by the tree before going to bed about 2:30 a.m.

“The world is magical at this hour on Christmas!” Kathryn said.

The Eckert house will be styled for the

Pools, Firefly Electrical, Fry Construction, The McFadden Team and Mountain Brook Plaza 280.

From left: Fresh evergreen garland and wreaths grace the Pattersons’ Vestavia Hills home, which was constructed of historic brick salvaged from early downtown Birmingham streets and build ings; Four gorgeous Christmas trees, including this one in the keeping room, enhance the beautiful decor at the Samford President’s Home; A vibrant red wreath and garland joyfully welcome visi tors to the Samford President’s Home.

Photos courtesy Samford Legacy League

T.

Wansley and Ryan Griffin

2133 Southwood Road, Vestavia Hills

Two Great Showrooms, Now Under One Roof!

Overlooking a lake and the second hole of Vestavia Country Club’s golf course, the Griffins’ 7-year-old resi dence offers living and enter tainment areas for all ages. In fact, the Griffins’ approached the previous owners about potentially selling because they were looking for a house that would be a “kid hangout,” and the owners already had started thinking about a move.

“The timing worked out well for everyone,” said Wansley Griffin, whose family moved to the Southwood Road home in June 2021.

The Griffins made the house their own by painting extensively, adding wallpaper, changing lighting fixtures and lightening the wood floors.

Their large top deck often is filled with visiting adults, while the smartly designed underdeck space – complete with a fire pit, ping pong table and TV – attracts their kids’ friends, just as hoped.

Another favorite space is a basement room filled with black and white photos of famous musicians, carefully selected by Ryan, a music-lov er who DJs for fun.

Above: The exposed beams in Kathryn and Doug Eckert’s den are among numerous notable features of their Mountain Brook home. Below: The Griffins’ artfully deco rated living room overlooks a lake and the second hole of Vestavia Country Club’s golf course.

Gaslight & Grill!

Christmas is a sentimental time for the Griffin family, who decorates with many cherished items, including a manger scene Wansley’s grandmother gave them as a wedding present. The creche, along with ornaments her grandmother gave Wansley through the years, has helped keep her grand mother’s memory alive since she

Formerly located in Homewood and owned by long-time Vestavia Hills resident Mike Barnett, Alabama Gaslight & Grill offers a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric lighting, and gas logs. Combined with Hollywood Pool’s outstanding inventory of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, the Vestavia Hills location is your one-stop shop for outdoor products from local families you know and trust.

passed away in 2008. One of the Griffins’ two Christmas trees is adorned with ornaments their kids have been given annually by their grandparents to suit their indi vidual personalities and interests.

1441 Montgomery Hwy | Vestavia Hills (205) 979-7727 | www.hollywoodpoolandspa.com

Steve Mote & Family—Owners of Hollywood Pools Outdoor Furnishings & Spas are excited to announce the acquisition of Alabama Gaslight & Grill!

Formerly located in Homewood and owned by long-time Vestavia Hills resident Mike Barnett, Alabama Gaslight & Grill offers a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric lighting, and gas logs. Combined with Hollywood Pool’s outstanding inventory of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, the Vestavia Hills location is your one-stop shop for outdoor products from local families you know and trust.

Montgomery Hwy |

Steve Mote & Family—Owners of Hollywood Pools Outdoor Furnishings & Spas are excited to announce the acquisition of Alabama Gaslight & Grill!

Hills

Formerly located in Homewood and owned by long-time Vestavia Hills resident Mike Barnett, Alabama Gaslight & Grill offers a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric lighting, and gas logs. Combined with Hollywood Pool’s outstanding inventory of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, the Vestavia Hills location is your one-stop shop for outdoor products from local families you know and trust.

Christmas tour by designer Mandi Smith

Bridget and Andrew Patterson 309 Sunset Drive, Vestavia Hills

With the combined talents and expertise of architect Jeremy Corkern and builder Robert Fry, the Pattersons’

Steve Mote & Family—Owners of Hollywood Pools Outdoor Furnishings & Spas are excited to announce the acquisition of Alabama

goal “to build a house that looked like it had been here for years” came to fruition in 2020.

“The home lives well, entertains well and feels like it was always there,” Corkern explained. Salvaged historic bricks from streets and build

ings that stood where Regions Field now sits make up the home’s exterior.

Inside, old oak beams hewn of reclaimed wood enhance the American colonial design. The light-filled resi dence overlooks Vestavia Country Club’s 14th hole with a view of the

Appalachian foothills in the distance. Its open kitchen, outfitted by AllSouth Appliance, provides a fabulous area for cooking and gathering. Newly constructed outdoor space features a hot tub and sport pool installed by Cox Pools, whose team jack-hammered through numerous layers of rock to achieve the desired depth. The adjacent cabana accommodates multi-season use and enhances the picturesque set ting.

Holiday decorations for the Patterson residence include three trees, each decorated differently. While the living room tree displays dressier clas sic ornaments, the playroom tree showcases their children’s homemade projects, and the screen porch tree has an “outdoorsy” theme. Among the many ornaments are souvenirs from places the Pattersons have visited and a collection of Hallmark ornaments to which they add annually.

Fresh evergreen wreaths and gar land around the front door comple ment the home’s design, hearkening to the traditional décor of Christmases past.

Jenny and Scott Sobera 2824 Canoe Brook Circle, Mountain Brook

When the Sobera family pur chased their Mountain Brook home in February 2020, they didn’t antici pate the haven it would become for them during the pandemic. They were attracted to the area for its con venience, the neighborhood for its friendliness and the tucked away

Whether it’s for their big Christmas Eve celebration, the neighborhood holiday party or the Legacy League’s Christmas Home Tour, guests to Jenny and Scott Sobera’s home will find lots of fresh greenery and flowers cut from their yard.

street for its quiet beauty.

As months of COVID-19 ensued, their surroundings offered “serenity during a hard time,” explained Jenny, an avid gardener and birder.

The diligent care she gives her dermatology patients carries over to her greenhouse, where Jenny is cur rently “rehabbing” 50 orchids back into bloom, nurturing her succulent collection and tending to flowers she grows from seeds.

Birds thrive in the Soberas’ back yard, which houses at least 10 feed ers at any time and features an array of blooms selected to attract feath ered friends. With new landscape lighting, a waterfall pool, comfort able outdoor furnishings and careful ly tended landscaping, the yard is a sanctuary.

Inside the graceful brick resi dence are lovely, practical spaces decorated by Jenny’s sister-in-law, Megan Houston, to fit the Soberas’ desire for a “livable, comfortable home.”

“We use all parts of our house on a daily basis,” Jenny explained.

During the yuletide season, fires warm the home while holiday jazz fills the air. Personalized needlepoint stockings, gifts from Scott’s aunt, adorn the mantle. Two live trees, bounteous houseplants, cut flowers and greenery reflect the family’s love of plants.

The Soberas’ four children – who are 11, 16, 21 and 24 – take turns putting the angel on top of the family tree, which features a collection of ornaments they’ve collected over time.

and Beck Taylor

Along with viewing elegant fur nishings and holiday decor, guests to the Taylors’ home will hear live Christmas music and nibble on sea sonal treats. In the ballroom they’ll find a few carefully curated pop-up shops offering holiday gifts, art, food and other items. A portion of sales will support Legacy League scholar ships.

Details

Advance tickets are required for the tour and may be purchased at samford.edu/legacyleague for $40 through Dec. 6. There will be no ticket sales at the door. Guests will select their start time and first home during ticket purchase. Limited slots are available; selection is subject to availability.

After visiting their first home, guests may tour other homes in any order at their leisure. Visiting all the homes will take 2 to 2½ hours. Homes will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Guests will drive to each home, and carpool ing is recommended.

The Legacy League is a philan thropic organization with nearly 800

members, ranging in age from 22-100. The 2022 Christmas Home Tour Committee, chaired by Tricia Naro, has worked tirelessly to plan for this year’s event, which is one of the organization’s largest fundraisers. The annual tour draws hundreds of people every year, attracting visitors from across Alabama and multiple other states.

Perched on the ridge of Shades Mountain in Vestavia Hills, the Samford’s President’s Home wel comes thousands of visitors each year, many of them during December.

A busy event space for the uni versity, the house also is the dwelling place of Samford’s president, Beck A. Taylor; his wife, Julie, the univer sity’s first lady and Legacy League’s executive director; their youngest daughter, Chloe; and Peanut, their goldendoodle.

The Taylors are fond of entertain ing, particularly during the holiday season. One of their favorite tradi tions is their annual family Christmas brunch with biscuits and fried quail. Many generations of Julie’s family have quail hunted through the years.

With a panoramic view of Samford’s campus, Birmingham’s skyline and beyond, the richly deco rated residence features four Christmas trees, yards of garland and festive ribbon, and special holiday pieces the family has collected over the years.

Reminiscent of a Christmas the Taylors spent in London, the snowy Christmas village displayed in the kitchen depicts Victorian England and scenes from Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

Julie

Samford President’s Home 1994 Shades Crest Road, Vestavia Hills

Every room in the house is beauti fully decorated for Christmas, which the family will share as the home is

featured in Independent Presbyterian Church’s 73rd annual Holiday House Tour.

Four homes will be featured in this year’s tour, which is virtual. Those who want to take the tour can buy tickets and will receive a special link

to view it online.

In addition to the Whatley family’s home, holiday décor in the Christopher home, Klick/McCormick home and Robinson home will be fea tured.

This isn’t the first time Whatley’s family has participated in the Holiday House Tour. Her mother, Kacy Mitchell, opened her home to the tour in 2001.

The base of a lamp on a side table in the living room holds special meaning –it’s made from a bottle of Champagne Bollinger served at the Whatley’s wedding.

Left, A large, antique Father Christmas belonged to Whatley’s grandmother Ireland.

tions for filming of the virtual tour.

“Every room has touches of Christmas,” Dyer noted.

Preparing the house for the filming of this portion of the virtual tour took several days and was full of holiday bustle. Visitors came by to see Dyer and Whatley when they began putting up the decorations.

The fragrance of fresh rosemary perme ated the breakfast nook, wafting from three rosemary bushes trimmed to look like petite Christmas trees that sat on the kitchen island. Red carnations will be added to trim the little “trees” before filming.

At the Whatley’s a few days before Thanksgiving, Micheal Dyer, the owner of Uncut Flowers LLC in Cahaba Heights and designer of the holiday décor, and she were in the kitchen adding finishing touches to a wreath with juniper.

Christmas in Every Room

After they finished, they went about the house to prepare decora

How do the flowers stay fresh through the holidays? Dyer said the secret is to make sure water picks are attached to the bottom of the stems.

Whatley and Dyer finished setting the table in the breakfast nook by placing holi day dishes by Rosanna Imports onto gold char gers. The plates,

Journal photos by Maury Wald

inscribed “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” in gold lettering that cir cles the rim of each plate, belonged to her grand mother. A cen terpiece designed by Dyer featuring holly berries finishes the look of the tablescape.

Dyer knew Whatley’s grandmoth er, the late Mallie Ireland, and deco rated her house for the holidays. He said she loved going all-out with Christmas décor.

“You’re talking about someone who did Christmas,” he said.

In the living room, where the Christmas tree topped by the angel commands a corner of the room, Whatley opened a hidden cabinet to reveal a feature that clearly brings delight: a custom-made recessed bar.

“I was inspired when I saw it on the deGournay Instagram,” Mallie said.

A small Christmas tree and a figu rine of a friendly teddy bear mixing

holiday treats in a bowl anchors the first shelf, while the glass shelves hold an array of Champagne flutes, crystal gold-rimmed glasses and Christmas glasses decorated with holly leaves and berries. A set of wine glasses are adorned with Christmas trees on their stems.

A large, antique Father Christmas that belonged to Whatley’s grand mother Ireland sits on a cabinet on one end of the room. The base of a lamp on a side table near the foot of

an Empire fainting couch holds spe cial meaning – it’s made from a bottle of Bollinger Champagne served at the Whatley’s wedding.

Knick-Knacks and Christmas Stockings

In the dining room, textured deep green Scalamandre wallpaper flecked with mica-like chips that shimmer in low light is a stunning setting for the décor.

A trio of small glass Christmas

Journal photos by Maury Wald

trees sits on the marble-topped buffet next to red holiday decorations. Five needlepoint Christmas stockings, inscribed with the names of Mallie and Jay and their daughters Katharine Grace, Dorothy and Charlotte, hang over the white marble fireplace.

Mallie’s aunt, Dell Hatten, who lived in the Birmingham area until she moved to Florida, made the first two stockings for the couple when they married and added a stocking for each girl when she was born.

Every piece in the room is heir

loom quality, with the sideboard, buffet, mirrors and even the drapes legacies of her grandmother. The room was designed around the drapes, said Annie Goldberg of AG Designs, who did the room. AG Designs designed the whole house, Whatley said.

“This whole room is family,” she said. “All I bought were the table and chairs.”

In the master bedroom, where the walls are covered in beautiful handpainted wallpaper by Gracie Studios in a floral motif with birds and but terflies, Whatley hopes to set up a pink Christmas tree, if the order comes in on time.

When you enter the home from the front door, more than two dozen figurines surround a traditional wood creche, adoring the baby Jesus. The

“She gives a couple of figures every year to her daughters-in-law,” Whatley said. “I’ve been married the longest, so I have the most.”

Outside, red Christmas trees will be set up on the patio by the pool, if, like the pink tree, they arrive on time for the film shoot.

The $35 standard ticket option includes a link to this year’s virtual tour delivered via email, which can be watched through the holidays. Four houses are being featured in the virtual tour, including the Whatley family’s home.

A new option, the $75 premium ticket, includes the virtual tour and admission to a traditional afternoon Christmas tea at the church on Dec. 10, beginning at 1 p.m. An in-person tour of the church sanctuary and parlor, festively decorated for the holidays, will be offered. Tea and a selection of warm beverages, finger sandwiches, pastries and scones will be served in the great hall.

Tickets are available at ipcholidayhouse.com.

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 levels, according to IPC’s website.

Fontanini nativity set was given to the family by Whatley’s mother-inlaw, Grace Whatley.

Courtesy

Gracie Studios

time.

Journal photo by Maury Wald

FOOD

Putting on the Ritz

Caterer Talks About Food to Keep Parties and Dinners Festive

By Anne Ruisi

Stumped by what to serve at your upcoming holiday party or Christmas dinner?

Award-winning Birmingham cater er Kathy G. Mezrano, owner of Kathy G. & Co. catering service, has some delicious tips to help you and your guests enjoy the fes tive season.

As holiday entertaining usually falls into either party or dinner mode, there are two ways to approach the food you’ll serve and its presen tation. Just remember that food is a natural cen terpiece, said Mezrano, who runs the Gardens Café at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Take the classic charcuterie, or grazing board. These are simple and easy to make by just arranging a variety of meats, cheeses and fruits on a board.

“Fruits and vegetables are so beautiful on their own, don’t be hesitant, just start and it will all fall into place”Mezrano said.

“Just lay it all out there,” Mezrano said.

The trick to serving party food is to make it look bountiful, with an array of cheeses, dips –spinach dip is always popular – bread, pita chips, pickles and raw vegetables. Garnish it with cranberries, pomegranates and greenery, and guests will head to that first, she said.

Presentation should be festive, and one way to add some holiday glamour is to spray paint gourds and pumpkins in silver and gold. Arrange the food on risers and pedestal cake plates. If the bottom of a plate or riser is a bit worn, chipped or cracked, arrange greenery around it and no one will ever know, she said.

Mezrano cautions against the use of some types of greenery around food. Holly, for exam ple, is poisonous, and using fresh cedar, pine or fraiser fur is just fine.

“It just gives it the look” for the holidays, she said.

Every meal is an event, Mezrano said, so make it one. Don’t forget to pull out the good china and crystal, even if many people, especial ly young people, eschew it.

“It’s a lost art. The young ones don’t like it,” Mezrano said.

For a party, food stations can offer an array of hors d’oeuvres. One idea from Mezrano’s cookbook, “Food, Fun & Fabulous,” is to serve an appetizer “mini-meal,” such as a small serv ing of pot roast and mashed potatoes in a marti ni glass.

Her catering business does a lot of parties with food stations, including a mashed potato bar with different toppings guests can add them selves, such as shredded cheese, green onions and sausage.

“You can put anything on it. It’s inexpensive and easy,” Mezrano said.

Sweet potatoes work just as well, with brown sugar, butter and pecans among the toppings, which makes it more festive.

A tossed salad is nice to have; use stronger greens like kale, arugula and romaine lettuce. Mezrano suggests giving the salad a little twist by adding dried cranberries and nuts and dress ing it in vinaigrette. Pomegranate seeds will add pretty color.

“It’s healthy and different,” she said.

Some suggested hors d’oeurves on the party menu could be ham biscuits, mini BL T’s or Conecuh sausage pig ‘n a blanket. Mushrooms caps can be filled with spinach and cheese, crab meat au gratin or sausage and pecans. Mini Phyllo pastry shells are available at your grocery store and make a wonderful vehicle for an hors d’oeurve filled with Brie and cranberry jam.

“A pot roast made with chuck roast that’s done well will be amazing and just as delicious as a prime cut of beef’ Mezrano said.

You have to have a meat on the party menu, so appetizers could run to something like ham biscuits or pot roast. The meat doesn’t have to be tenderloin.

“A pot roast made with chuck (beef) done well will be amazing, fantastic,” Mezrano said.

Party Sweets

Of course, you have to have sweets. Party desserts don’t need to be complicated and should be something easy for guests to handle, like holiday cookies, chocolate mousse or pots

de crème served in small cups. Mezrano likes using demitasse cups.

Pound cake garnished with berries and a dol lop of whipped cream is always a crowd pleaser. Cookies and fudge are other options.

Having a couple of sweets to choose from is ideal because many people like having an assortment of treats to enjoy, Mezrano said.

Festive Dining

For a dinner, guests can nibble on a big charcuterie board set on a sideboard or coffee table. You could do a soup course, although these days it’s not served at big holiday meals that often. One idea is to serve a crab chowder in demitasse cups and call it crabmeat “cappuc cino”.

At any holiday meal, macaroni and cheese is a must and many Southerners enjoy it with baked ham and turkey for their main holiday meal. A standing rib roast of beef is a classic for holiday dinners.

The Birmingham area has a long tradition of immigrants settling here, so traditional eth

nic dishes that reflect the heritage of a family are handed down through the generations and will appear on many dinner tables.

Mezrano is Lebanese and said, “You have to have kibbe,” referring to the balls stuffed with a meat filling, usually lamb or beef.

Preparing Christmas dinner doesn’t have to be hectic – a lot of the sides can be made ahead of time.

Casseroles, mashed potatoes or twice baked potatoes made before the big day can be reheated, but meats should be cooked that day, Mezrano said.

Drinks are an important part of any holiday party or dinner, so pour anything sparkling, because it’s festive, Mezrano said.

“Some sort of bubbly” will work, such as Prosecco or Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, she said, adding that dropping a raspberry or blueberry at the bottom of a flute glass will give it a special finish.

What will Mezrano have for the holiday?

On Christmas Eve, she likes to eat seafood, and on Christmas morning at her home, she’ll serve her family a traditional breakfast of eggs, grits, bacon, ham and chops, with fruit, espe cially pineapple.

Pot de Crème

In her cookbook, “Food, Fun & Fabulous,” Kathy G says this is her “absolute favorite dessert, this is so decadent!” She loves to serve it in demitasse cups and notes that the better the chocolate, the better the cus tard. She prefers Valrhona dark.

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup half-and-half 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate 2 teaspoons sugar 3 egg yolks ½ teaspoon vanilla

DIRECTIONS:

In a pot, bring half-and-half, chocolate and sugar to boil. Slowly pour chocolate mixture into egg yolks while whisking. Return mixture to pot and cook over a low heat for two minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Pour through a fine mesh strainer and fill cups. Refrigerate overnight to set.

Award-winning Birmingham caterer Kathy G. Mezrano, owner of Kathy G. & Co. catering service, has some delicious tips to help you and your guests enjoy the festive season.

Courtesy

These faux fur slippers are a decorated spin on the loungewear essentials you’ll be lusting after this winter season. Frances Valentine, francesvalentine.com

A customer favorite! Adorable assorted Christmas towels. Alabama Goods, 205-803-3900

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HOLIDAY

GIFT GUIDE 2022 PART II

Wait, there’s more! Our favorite area merchants have been hard at work curating the best gift ideas to make your holiday shopping a little easier. They've done such a good job finding quality and quantity gifts we made the decision to publish a Christmas Gift Guide Part II. (Okay we do it every year, but it's fun for all involved!) Only 24 more shopping days left!

Luxury scented candles and home fragrances from the Baobab Candle Collection. Gus Mayer, 205-870-3300

These frozen beer glasses will Keep your favorite brew perfectly chilled for an excellent drinking experience, $45. The. Cook Store, 205-879-5277

The Classic Train Case by Pursen, perfect for storing on-the-go essentials! This bag can be used as a beauty or toiletry organizer. Store lotions, makeup brushes, compacts, perfumes, and much more, $78. The Blue Willow, 205-968-0909

Bromberg’s best-selling bracelet is a fabulous statement piece for the holidays! Featuring luxurious 24K yellow gold gilded hammered links and an easy to use toggle clasp, 8.5” in length. Bromberg’s, Mountain Brook 205-871-3276; The Summit 205-969-1776

Three looks in one from Tom Ford. This eyewear includes blue radiation anti-glare lenses that can be customized with your prescription. The two sun clips allow three fabulous looks. Gordon Eye Care @ The Narrows, 205-855-2020

Bread Boards - Antique French and European bread boards. Various sizes to choose from. Antiquities, 205-870-1030

Made from our lightweight bamboo fleece, our apex fleece 1/4 zip is lightweight and versatile enough to wear all year long, $88. Tasc Performance, 659-599-9240

Beautifully carved nativity, $40.

Attic Antiques, 205-991-6887

Shu Shop; cool, lightweight and comfortable enough for everyday wear, from leggings to dresses, $68$76. Little Soles, 205-970-6990

Holiday in Paris

Get lit this holiday season with a lighted hand bag. Includes a battery pack with light switch and removable cross-body chain. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Art, 205-874-1044

Nativity framed ornament, 3.5” x 3.5” x 0.5”, $19.

Baker Lamps & Linens, 205-981-3330

Assorted antique Christmas ornaments. Hanna Antiques, 205-323-6063.

Bedhead pajamas have a longsleeved, button front top with a jogger pant, $120. The Lingerie Shoppe, 205-8718994

Avani Rupa Fine Jewelers’ unique stackable bands collection, avail able in so many designs and colors!

Starting at $400, avanirupa.com

Seed cylinders, characters, and wreaths. The variety of ingredients in each makes them a perfect addition to any yard. Wild Birds Unlimited, 205-823-6500

Made in Italy, the most beautiful and easy ready to use pizza oven on the market. Alfa Pizza Wood or Gas Fire Oven, starting from $1,399. AllSouth Appliance, 205-749-5224

Michael Aram Pomegranate

Menorah $195. Table Matters, 205-879-0125

Wide colored gemstone and diamond bands from $1,350. Shay’s Jewelers, 205-978-5880

Made without synthetic fragrances or colorants, Agraria candles, room spray and diffusers. B. Prince, 205-871-1965

Glow Wild at your Birmingham Zoo! An Animal Lantern Celebration, Tickets for a family of 4 adults, $95.80 www.birminghamzoo.com/ event/glowwild-2022/

Brent Neale 18K bubble initial pendant necklaces and stud earrings with diamonds and precious stones (sold as singles to mix, match and stack); studs, $750 each, necklaces, start at $2,500. Etc... 205-871-6747

Blade and Bow Bourbon - 750 mL

This tasty bourbon is the perfect balance of vanilla and herbs and is great for sipping or mixing in a cocktail. R&R Wine & Liquor, 205- 848-2080

Custom engraved 18” Ramsay necklace features an octagon locket with your initials, choose your font and choose your necklace chain. Ex Voto, 205-538-7301

Journée Firm: Your all in one day time mois turizer, growth factors and SPF! Plus it’s tinted. Gunn Dermatology, 205-415-7536

Glenwood’s Pecans for Autism have been a holiday staple for more than 40 years. Glenwood, glenwood.org/shop

205-8705544

Holiday velvet monogram pillows with down filling, $60 - $100. Urban Home Market, 205- 980-4663

18kt yellow gold diamond flower style fashion ring with 0.58 cttwt of diamonds, $2710. Southeastern Jewelers 205-980-9030

Lux candles made in Des Arc, Arkansas from a blend of the high est quality, fully-refined paraffin and vegetable waxes. Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers, 205-871-7060

Busy Santa’s helpers could use Lavender exfoliating foot wraps. One treatment exfoliates and removes dead skin within a week, $9.99. Flip Flops & What Nots 205-967-7429

Fishing for the perfect Gift? Sexton’s Seafood gift certificates are great stocking stuffers that keep fresh well into the new year! Sexton’s Seafood of Birmingham, 205-967-3437

Bravo! This t-shirt is a showstopper. Homewood Theatre logo on the front. Homewood Theatre, 205-873-1816

For a gift that is hands on and minds on, STEM learning kits focus on chemistry, physics, biology, robotics, or engineering, from $16. McWane Science Center 205-714-8300

Fireballs, the modern alternative, create a warm holiday glow that will last all winter long. Hollywood Outdoor Living, 205-979-7727

Skincare for your hair-- Kevin Murphy hair products combine high tech scientific knowledge with best natural ingredients available. Salon Summit, 205-518-0406

Mary Engelbreit musical Santa, $95. Mary Charles Doll House,

and defeating Muscle Shoals 28-7 in the Class 6A semifinals to earn a spot in the Super 7 Championships.

Mountain Brook (12-2) will play Saraland (13-1) for the Class 6A championship at 7 p.m. Friday at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium. Saraland knocked off previously unbeaten Theodore 21-6 to advance.

The Spartans will be playing in a championship game for the first time since 1996 and trying to win their first state title since 1976, when they won their second consecutive crown.

Mountain Brook lost in the semifi nals to the eventual Class 6A state championships the past two years, Pinson Valley in 2020 and ClayChalkville in 2021.

The Spartans were determined not to let their season end a game short of the Super 7 again, but it wasn’t some thing Yeager dwelled on leading up to the semifinal game against Muscle Shoals.

“I’ll be honest, I have not even let myself go there, that we could possi bly be going to the state champion ship,” Yeager said. “There was proba bly a minute and a half left in the game and (the players) were over there celebrating and I said, ‘It’s not over yet.’ I thought, I’ve lost my mind.

“I have absolutely not allowed myself to even dream of that next step. I’ve got a lot of work I’ve gotta do this week because I have not pre pared anything at all.”

The Trojans (11-2) sat and watched on a knee as the Spartans jumped and shouted in celebration while receiving a plaque commemo rating their semifinal win. Next up is their bid for the Alabama High School Athletic Association blue map state championship trophy.

It didn’t fully hit Mountain Brook it was headed to the title game until after the semifinal game was over. Junior running back Cole Gamble had to take a few seconds to muster up any words to describe the spectacle of it.

“Man,” Gamble said, letting out a bit of a laugh. “It’s still setting in. That’s gonna be awesome. Obviously, we gotta finish the job.”

Early in the game against the Trojans, it looked as if a similar fate was awaiting Mountain Brook as it had the past two years. The Spartans’ first drive resulted in a punt, and Muscle Shoals marched down the field to take a 7-0 lead on Seth Mosley’s 22-yard pass to Bryant Basden.

That was all the points the Trojans scored. Gamble, as he has done throughout the playoffs, took charge. He rushed for 189 yards and three touchdowns, scoring on runs of 36, 1 and 12 yards. Will Waldrop scored the other touchdown on a 9-yard run.

“I think our guys adjusted well,” Yeager said. “(Muscle Shoals) had a great game plan.”

Tunnel Vision

Heading into the semifinals, Yeager said the Spartans focused

solely on Muscle Shoals and not on playing for a title.

“There’s nothing in our field house that talks about winning a champion ship,” he said.

But this week that will be the main topic of conversation.

“We’ve overcome a lot of humps,” Yeager said, rattling off some of the Spartans’ victories this season. “Vestavia was a hump. James Clemens was a hump. Pinson Valley was a hump. This game, it’s a bunch of little humps to get to this one. It’s just special how everything came together.”

For Gamble it means one more opportunity to play with Spartans’ seniors.

“These guys are my brothers,” Gamble said. “I’m so glad this wasn’t my last game playing with these seniors. But we’re not satisfied. We’ve got one more. We gotta go to Jordan-Hare and finish the job.”

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Mountain Brook wide receiver Clark Sanderson breaks a tackle in the Spartans semifinal win over Muscle Shoals last Friday.

Quarterback John Colving rolls

in Mountain Brook’s win over Muscle Shoals. Mountain Brook will play Saraland for the Class 6A championship at 7 p.m. Friday at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium.

head basketball coach at Pelham for 11 years, leading the Panthers to four Sweet 16 appearances and an Elite Eight appearance in 2017.

He decided to leave Pelham because of his son, Blake, who had played for him at Pelham.

“My son was about to be a senior and I decided it was best to let some body else be his head coach,” Floyd said.

Floyd had known Jags coach Chris Laatsch for 15 years, saying “He is one best in the business.” So, Blake Floyd transferred to Spain Park and Joel Floyd became Laatsch’s assistant, making it a package deal.

“I got to be more of a dad than any thing else,” Floyd said. “I think it was important for both of us. He loved being at Spain Park and he loved play ing for coach Laatsch.”

Blake Floyd helped Spain Park reach the 2021 Final Four before gradu ating. He’s now at North Alabama as a walk-on.

Floyd wasn’t looking to become a head coach again, but when Chris Love retired as Oak Mountain’s head coach in March, Floyd jumped at the chance to replace him.

He was familiar with Oak Mountain athletic director Shane Gillman and Shelby County Schools Superintendent Lewis Brooks, having coached both of his sons at Pelham.

“I was very happy at Spain Park, but this was a perfect opportunity for me at

look.

uate and move on. You miss them ‘cause you love them. We love Emma.”

As much as he loves Smith and his other former players, Smelser has turned his full attention to his current team.

“We try not to emphasize what we’re missing basketball-wise without Emma or Ally (Smith, Emma’s twin sister) or Carly Smith (no relation),” Smelser said, referring to the other two starters who graduated. “This is a new year and a new team with a new

“We’re a young team with mostly sophomores, two juniors and only one senior. We’ve even got an eighth grad er on the team. But our youth has a lot of experience. Five or six of them saw a lot of playing time last season.”

The youthful Rebels haven’t missed a beat. They entered the Thanksgiving break with an 8-0 record while outscoring their opponents by a plus-22 margin (63.5 to 41.0).

“We’ve got a talented group who likes to compete and win,” Smelser said. “I’m not shocked that we’ve started the way we have.

“We’re getting better every day which is one of the benefits of having

Oak Mountain,” Floyd said. “I live in the area and I knew coach Love. He had done an amazing job, so if I was going to get back in the business of being a head coach, this was it.”

Trying to Capture Success

Oak Mountain had plenty of suc cess the past three seasons, reaching the Final Four in 2020, winning the 2021 Class 7A state championship and advancing to the Elite Eight in 2022.

Floyd inherited a team that had graduated nine seniors, although he was hoping the winning tradition of the past few seasons would rub off.

“We don’t have a whole lot of experience, but we have talent with a lot of potential and guys who work hard,” Floyd said. “We have several guys who play multiple sports.”

a young team. You get to see them improve daily, as players and as indi viduals.”

Starting Lineup

The Rebels start three sophomores, 5-foot-11 forward Sarah Gordon, point guard Jill Gaylard and guard Grayson Hudgens. Senior guard Anna Towry and 5-11 junior forward Mallory Cowan round out the starting lineup. Junior Ally Perry, 5-11 sophomore Jordan Madsen, eighth grader Ryleigh Martin, sophomore Rosemary Gill, and sophomore Emma Gordon, Sarah Gordon’s twin sister, are also receiving plenty of playing time. Sophomores Jule McMillan and Ava Robinson

The Eagles have seven seniors, including 6-foot-3 senior forward Matthew Heiberger, who was a sopho more on the 2021 state championship team.

The other seniors are guard Devan Moss; forward Bobby Laury; guard Braxton Diorio; guard Eli Love; for ward Jack Ronilo, who is heading to Duke as long-snapper in football; and 6-9 center Tre Thomas, who has a 7-foot wingspan.

Heiberger, a talented left-handed pitcher who is headed to Alabama to play baseball, leads the Eagles in scor ing (19.0 ppg) and rebounding (7.5 rpg) in the early going. He scored 25 points in the victory against Prattville.

Thomas, who had 20 points against Prattville, leads the team in blocked shots, averaging nearly four blocks per

complete the varsity roster.

“We’ve got 12 on the team and we rotate 10 in consistently with our style of play,” Smelser said.

Gordon is the team’s leading scor er, averaging about 15 points per game, and Towry is right behind her, averaging nearly 14 points per game. Gaylard also is averaging in double figures.

“All three of them are playing real ly well, but all of the girls are playing hard and playing good defense,” Smelser said. “We’ve just got to get some more games under our belt. We’ve played some pretty good teams, but we’ve got some tests coming up.”

The Rebels are back in the same

game.

“Several colleges have called me about him,” Floyd said. “He’s kind of a late bloomer.”

The Eagles also have gotten solid production from sophomore guard Will O’Dell and junior guards Grey Williams and Kevin Jasinski.

“We’re playing all 13 guys when we’re winning,” Floyd said. “Every dead ball we’re subbing in five new players. We’re playing faster than we have in the past and we’re pressing consistently on defense. It’s something I thought fits our personnel.”

Oak Mountain will compete in Class 7A, Area 6 along with Spain Park, Hewitt-Trussville and Chelsea.

“I’m not sure we have a whole lot of expectations,” Floyd said. “It’s going to be a growing experience.”

area (Class 7A, Area 5) with Hoover for the first time in three seasons.

The teams played only once during the regular season last year with Hoover posting a 64-55 victory, then the Bucs turned back the Rebels 73-64 in the state championship game.

“It’s not a great feeling to be back in the same area with them, but you’ve got to go through them at some point, so we’re going to embrace it,” Smelser said. “We’ll get more shots at them instead of just one (during the regular season). We’ll probably see them three or four times this season.

“It’s a bit exciting because it’s a pretty good rivalry, something both communities enjoy.”

FINALLY!

Mountain Brook Clears Semifinal Hurdle to Reach Championship Game

By Hayden Flatt

MUSCLE SHOALS — Coach Chris Yeager and his Mountain Brook Spartans spent the past two seasons wondering what could have been and

‘I’m so glad this wasn’t my last game playing with these seniors. But we’re not satisfied. We’ve got one more. We gotta go to Jordan-Hare and finish the job.’

SPARTAN JUNIOR RUNNING BACK COLE GAMBLE

what they had to do to finish a state football playoff run.

Last Friday, the Spartans put those thoughts to rest, going on the road

‘Talented Group’

Youthful Vestavia Hills Girls Basketball Team Off to Hot Start

By RuBin e. GRant

From the moment John David Smelser took over as Vestavia Hills’ girls head basketball coach in the spring of 2019, Emma Smith was the one player he could always count on. But now in his fourth season, Smelser no longer has Smith around to turn to. She is a freshman at the University of Denver after finishing

Eagles Flying High

By RuBin e. GRant

The Oak Mountain boys basket ball team has served notice in the first three weeks of the young season that it is not ready to take a step back under new coach Joel Floyd.

The Eagles went into the Thanksgiving break with a 6-1 record, with the only loss to defending Class 7A champion Enterprise, 59-47, in the first round of the Sneaky Pete’s Rebel Classic at Vestavia Hills last week.

Oak Mountain bounced back from that loss with a 57-54 victory against Faith Academy and a 75-54 victory against Prattville to claim third place in the tournament.

“The guys are playing extremely hard and playing well on offense and defense,” Floyd said. “I am pleased with how we’ve played early in the

her high school career as the Rebels’ all-time leading scorer with more than 2,000 points while also collecting more than 1,000 rebounds.

Smith led Vestavia Hills to a 33-3 record and Class 7A runner-up finish last season.

“You can’t replace a player like her,” Smelser said. “But that’s part of being a high school coach. Kids grad

Oak Mountain center Tre Thomas, who has a 7-foot wingspan.

season.”

Floyd spent the past two years as an assistant coach in boys basketball and volleyball at Spain Park. He helped the Jaguars’ basketball team reach the Final Four the past two sea sons and was on the bench when Spain Park captured the 2021 Class 7A state volleyball championship.

Before that, he had been the boys

Junior running back Cole Gamble led the Spartan attack with 189 yards rushing and three touchdowns, scoring on runs of 36, 1 and 12 yards in Mountain Brook’s 28-7 win over Muscle Shoals in the Class 6A semifinals Friday.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Guard Anna Towry is the only senior on Vestavia’s girls basketball team.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Journal photo by Jordan Wald