2.25.21 by Over the Mountain Journal

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Photos courtesy, top: Camp Walkabout, Baylor School. Below left: Red Mountain Theatre Company. Below right: Gross Out Camp, Children’s Fresh Air Farm.

SOCIAL

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021

NAVIGATING SUMMER CAMP 2021

KEEP CALM AND CAMP ON!

INDING THE PERFECT SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE

presents new challenges during a pandemic. Enrollment at some camps is limited, while others have temporarily suspended programming altogether. As always, however, this year’s edition of OTMJ’S ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP GUIDE provides plenty of options including camps focusing on ACADEMICS/ENRICHMENT, ARTS &

CRAFTS, DANCE, DRAMA, LEADERSHIP/ SERVICE, MUSIC, SCIENCE, AND MORE. Be aware, though,

camp dates and offerings are more than ever subject to change, and to ensure a spot, early registration is recommended. We also encourage parents to confirm camp policies regarding COVID-19 restrictions and to prepare campers accordingly. Camp guide begins on page 16.

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

Inside

Murphy’s Law

E ‘SLOW DESIGN’ Landscape garden professionals to speak at upcoming BBG Native Plant Conference PAGE 4

‘NEAR-FLAWLESS FASHION’ Mountain Brook defies COVID, ends year with a surplus PAGE 8

WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? Grassroots organization MB Listens seeks to spread acceptance in Mountain Brook PAGE 10

TEACHER OF THE YEAR Q & A with Vestavia Hills teachers about the affects of pandemic in the classroom PAGE 18

ABOUT TOWN 4 CAMP GUIDE 16 NEWS 8 SCHOOLS 24 LIFE 10 SPORTS 28 SOCIAL 12

otmj.com With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area. To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L February 25, 2021 Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Emily Williams-Robertshaw, Sam Prickett Photographer: Jordan Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd Vol. 30, No. 14

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 2021 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.

Curbside Chic

xperts say you should dress for run a brush through my hair (I’ve forthe life you want to live. If that gotten that more than once.), I’m all is so, I should be wearing a set. Tinkerbell T-shirt and Mickey ears. Since I wear a mask for all human Sadly, I know it’s not in my best encounters, I made it a point to asseminterest right now to pull up stakes and ble a cute collection, if I do say so become a resident of the Magic myself – paisleys and plaids and one Kingdom (notice me being a grownwith a Star Wars theme that has been up), so I am faced with the runner-up quite popular with the drive-thru alternative: dressing for the life that I crowd. The great thing about masks is have. that they remove the necessity to wear When my eyes flutter open each lipstick. Mascara, however, is paramorning, I consider the adventures mount since your eyes are the only Sue Murphy that lie before me. Monday is cleanindicator of your mood. They have to the-bathrooms day, so I sensibly don a smile, demonstrate appropriate concern T-shirt already dotted with bleach narrow ever-so-slightly to show My goal when I leave and stains. Tuesday, I tackle the floors major disappointment, as in the case the house is to be wearing jeans with appreciably of Starbuck’s canceled gingerbread worn knees. Wednesday is clean presentable, at least loaf.My goal when I leave the house sheets day (no particular outfit indifrom the driver’s cated) and Thursday brings dusting, is to be presentable, at least from when I opt to wear something of a side window up. I’ve the driver’s side window up. I’ve lighter shade. Saturday, I tackle the resisted the temptation to venture resisted the temptation forth in pajama pants because I laundry and wear whatever is not already in the hamper. Sunday, I know that the day I do, I will get to venture forth in think, “surprise me,” just to throw a into a fender bender and wind up pajama pants ... bit of whimsy into the proceedings. standing on the side of the road in This system works great until I full public view. Experience has head out to do errands. In days past, taught me that if there’s a 5% these outings might happily include lunch with my chance of disaster coming to pass, I’m your gal. posse at a sit-down restaurant (remember those?), and I I do still own regular clothes. They’re just sitting in would leave the house in a regular grownup outfit, the closet like museum pieces, like Nancy Reagan’s maybe even a scarf, something that said, “I am a funcinaugural gowns. I realize I could wear anything I want tioning human being.” Now, however, the majority of to at any time at all, but I can see the vaccine light at my errands are of the drive thru or curbside pickup the end of the tunnel and I want my black slacks and variety, so the question becomes, “How much of my sweaters to be ready to spring into action when it is outfit will be visible?” If I drive thru Starbucks on bath- pronounced safe to go out to lunch once again. room day, is it really worth changing into a regular-perRegular clothes. They’re my “when this is all over” son shirt? On floors day, the worn jeans won’t show, stash. I’m sure I’ll have some adjustment to make then, anyway, as long as I stay in the car. On any given day, too. Or maybe not. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll be at Disney World in my Tinkerbell T-shirt and Mickey ears. if I wear shoes that don’t catch on the brake pedal and

Over the Mountain Views

Snow Day! The Over the Mountain area was transformed into a winter wonderland on Feb. 16 as snow settled over much of the country last week. Temperatures were well below freezing for the entire day, even as the sun broke through the clouds in the early afternoon.

Journal photo by Emily Williams

2 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

B U Y L O C A L . B U Y O N LABOUT I NTOWN E . S A M E L O W P R Thursday, I C EFebruary S . 25, 2021 • 3

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By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

ooking back on pandemic closures that began nearly a year ago, Birmingham Botanical Gardens Garden Assessment Project Leader Molly Hendry, a Vestavia Hills native, remembers the bad but also the good. “When we shut the gates in the throes of spring, I was still coming to the gardens,” Hendry said, conducting essential work such as checking on irrigation systems, weeding and the like amid gardens in full bloom. “I felt this heaviness because nobody was getting to see this,” she said. Gardening in a public space can sometimes be frustrating, with visitors walking through freshly tended beds. But the lack of visitors outweighed any issues faced in normal operating days. There was time to do an overhaul of the Dunn Forman Rose Garden to fix drainage issues. Hendry was able to finish tweaking a perennial border in the Southern Living Garden she had been working on since 2018. “There were some good things that came out of it, but the lasting takeaway has been the joy that we get sharing the garden with people,” she said. It was also a time that proved just how much the gardens meant to people, as donors proved only too happy to support the BBG as key fundraising events were canceled, such as the Spring Plant Sale or Antiques at the Gardens, which this year was reimagined as Birmingham Blooms. Next month the gardens revives its biennial Native Plant Conference, and Hendry will be one of the speakers. According to a release, the March 11-14 event will highlight the resilience of native plants, along with topics ranging from conservation to design and education. The event series will include virtual presentations, roundtables and trivia, as well as on-site small group field trips.

A Winding Route

When she first started her schooling, Hendry had a plan to become a landscape architect, but because Auburn University didn’t offer a bachelor’s degree for the field, she settled for horticulture. “I just kind of fell in love with it,” she said. She had the opportunity to study abroad in England and travel to Italy to study the country’s great gardens. “I thought about just getting my masters in horticulture, but being in those gardens, I thought, ‘No. I want to make people feel the way that I feel when I see this place,’” she said. While pursuing her master’s in landscape architecture at Auburn, she took a year off to do something unexpected; she accepted an internship at a public garden in Delaware. “I fell in love with public gardens that summer,” she said. “I worked with a designer and thought that garden people are my people.” Upon completing her second degree, Hendry was given what she calls “the opportunity of a lifetime.” She was chosen for a coveted fellowship offered through the Garden Club of America. “They have been doing an exchange program through the United Kingdom and America since World War II, where they swap an American fellow and a British fellow,” she said. Hendry lived in the UK for about a year, spending time in eight different placements. “I was moving all over the country about every two months and it was a dream, but I felt like I would come back and work for an archi-

‘Slow Design’ ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Landscape Garden Professionals to Speak at Upcoming Birmingham Botanical Gardens Native Plant Conference

Photos courtesy Birmingham Botanical Gardens

4 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

Southern Highlands Reserve Executive Director Kelly Holdbrooks, left, and Birmingham Botanical Gardens Garden Assessment Project Leader Molly Hendry, right, are among a number of speakers scheduled to speak at next month’s biennial Native Plant Conference.

tecture firm as a plant person,” she said. Yet, the more time she spent working in these public gardens, the more she felt her relationship with the act of gardening and maintaining the plants to be a calling.

‘At Birmingham Botanical Gardens, I love that my whole job is to get people excited about gardens and being outside, growing things. I get the luxury of being able to observe and make measured decisions. I have a leg up because I get to know and understand the place itself and get to know the people that make the place what it is.’ MOLLY HENDRY

“I started feeling this nudge,” she said. “I never thought I would come back to Birmingham, but I just kept feeling this nudge. Then, this opportunity opened up at the BBG that is all of the things that I love doing.” In her role at the facility, she has the best of both worlds, aiding in design and strategic development while also spending time getting her hands dirty, working with volunteers and educating others. “At Birmingham Botanical Gardens, I love that my whole job is to get people excited about gardens and being outside, growing things,” she said. “I get the luxury of being able to observe and make measured decisions. I have a leg up because I get to know and understand the place itself and get to know the people that make the

place what it is.” Hendry oversees the more than 26 gardens that make up the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. She works to understand the history of each garden, its original intent, the people who had a hand in creating what it has become and where, in those spaces, things need to be tweaked to better serve its purpose. “If we get a grant or are approached by a donor, we can leverage the resources we have in one of those directions,” she said.

The Native Plant Conference

After a keynote opening presentation on March 11 from Southern Highlands Reserve Executive Director Kelly Holdbrooks, Hendry will lead a session about her wildflower studies. Her presentation, “Slow Design: Observation and Response as Our Most Valuable Garden Tools,” is inspired by her indepth studies that have been conducted in the Hugh Kaul Wildflower Garden since April 2019. She will discuss the garden’s history, which was created in the late 1960s and found its heyday in the 1980s. At one point, Hendry believed the garden needed a refresh. She sought help from worldrenowned landscape architect and author Thomas Rainer and his 2015 book “Planting in a Post-Wild World.” “I saw on his Instagram that he was going to be in town visiting his parents, so I reached out,” she said. “He ended up coming back and doing a workshop with us and helped create this plan and vision for our Kaul Wildflower Garden for the 21st century.” The key to the plan has been to let the plants speak for themselves. “We have over 900 native species in that garden,” Hendry said. “Any native plant enthusiast would just balk at that number. It’s a really incredible number of species, but the average Joe that walks in wouldn’t know that.”

Hendry explained to Hendry that one of the keys to grabbing the attention of the typical visitor is through color. “Before we actually go into this whole redesign phase, we need to just take a step back and watch the garden over time,” Hendry said. Her duty was to visit the garden and observe those species that demand attention. “In 2019, I started going out there at least once a week, but probably multiple times a week, to just walk around and observe and take lots of pictures,” she said. She focused only on the plants that grabbed her eye, ending up with 179 main contenders. Through what is now known as the KWG Phenology Project, she began tracking bloom times on a large chart. “Now I can see that this cardinal flower is in bloom for 12 weeks out of the year. That’s a really long time,” she said. “Then I look that this little trillium, and it’s only in bloom for two weeks. It has value but I need to use it in a different way.” The plants themselves will now lead the redesign. Those eye-catchers will draw the visitor in and lead them to learn more about their surrounding species that may not have the same “wow factor.” “There really has been value in taking a step back over two years and establishing what the problem areas are and being able to make measured decisions through first observing,” she said. In addition to her presentation, Hendry will lead an on-site field trip on March 14 through the Kaul Wildflower Garden. “In the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, we have so many gardens that are geared towards the homeowner and their own gardens,” she said. “Kaul is one where it feels more natural. People may not walk in and think they could do this in their own yard.” In her free time, Hendry also finds ways to help other people in their home gardens. She has observed a growing trend toward native plants but also to getting things done quickly. “They often don’t want to stop, observe and think,” she said. The thing about native plant life that makes a difference is that these plants want to grow in Alabama soil, she said. “There has been a Southern landscape that has been the same since the ‘80s where you just throw in the hollies or loropetalum shrubs,” she said. “You hack your crepe myrtles off in February because that’s what your dad did in his yard. “I think people are realizing that maybe that doesn’t have to be the way it is.” Hendry’s has noticed when working with younger homeowners a willingness to learn more about species that give back to the surrounding environment, such as pollinators and other plants that support the surrounding wildlife. “Their yard might be small, but it can be a critical piece in the wider landscape,” Hendry said. Events such as the Native Plant Conference allow people to learn more and even take a field trip to see these plants growing in a natural habitat. “We are hoping that Kaul becomes its epicenter,” she said. “We want it to be a garden that captures people’s minds and imaginations and points them outward to those wild places. Registration for access to all virtual events is $80 for members and $100 for non-members. Field trips are $40 each for members, or $50 each for non-members. For more information and a lineup of speakers, visit bbgardens.org/npc.php.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 5

ABOUT TOWN

FEB 25 - MAR 11 Editor’s note: Some of the events in our calendar may have been canceled after our press deadline. Please check organiziation websites for the latest information.

and an hour and a half tour of the site including two areas not open to the public. Admission is $25. When: 7:309:30 p.m. Where: Sloss Furnaces Website: contact Ty Malugani at tyler. malugani@birminghamal.gov.

chef and co-owner of OvenBird and Hot and Hot Fish Club, Chris Hastings, in support of the Friends of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Internship Program. When: 5:30-7 p.m. Website: bbgardens.org

Sun., March 7 Evening with an Expert - Cook Along with Chef Chris Hastings This livestream fundraiser will feature a cook-along presentation by James Beard Award-winning

Thurs., March 11 Birmingham Heart Ball Digital Experience

The American Heart Association Alabama chapter will host its annual gala fundraiser in a new way, emceed

by Sheri Falk and Guy Rawlings of WVTM-13 and featuring event honorees Tim Vines, CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, and his wife Antoinette Vines, founder of Mercy Deliverance Ministries. When: 6 p.m. Website: birminghamheartball. heart.org

The History of Linn Park

The Birmingham Museum of Art will host a panel discussion as part of its ongoing Ways of Seeing: Buildings and Monuments exhibit. Speakers will

CONTINUED, page 7

Imagine your home, totally organized!

Photo courtesy Eric Essix

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ALYS STEPHENS CENTER PRESENTS: DEDICATION THURS. FEB. 25

In honor of Black History Month, the center will host a free, virtual presentation and concert featuring the Eric Essix Group and Tracy Hamlin (both groups pictured above). Attendees must register online. When: 7 p.m. Website: alysstephens.org

Through Feb. 27 The Salamander Festival

The annual festival, hosted by the Friends of Shades Creek has gone virtual this year, featuring a Salamander Storyboard Trail, environmental news, activities, educational videos and more. Website: shadescreek.org.

Fri., Feb. 26 Arbor Week Celebration

The City of Mountain Brook will conclude a week-long Arbor Week with an event where the Alabama Urban Forestry Administration will present the city with the Arbor City 2021 Award. When: 10-11 a.m. Where: Mountain Brook City Hall Website: mtnbrookchamber.org

Sat., Feb. 27 Cahaba Crawfish Boil

Cahaba Brewing Co. will host a crawfish boil with food from Cajun Steamer and live music by the Steel City Jug Slammers. When: noon-5 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Co. Website: “Cahaba Crawfish Boil” Facebook page

March 2-5

SPECIAL FINANCING

Lil Lambs Consignment Sale

Trinity United Methodist Church’s annual consignment sale will go virtual this year, with all items available to purchase online. The sale will include baby and children’s clothing and shoes, books, toys and nursery equipment. Website: trinitybirmingham.com/kids/lil-lambs

for 12 Months!

With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details.

Sat., March 6 E-Recycling Day

Hosted in partnership with the Jefferson County Commission, an industrial shredder will be on-site at the zoo for shredding and recycling. When: 9-11:30 a.m. Where: Birmingham Zoo Website: birminghamzoo.com

Chili Kick-off

The Exceptional Foundation will host a kick-off event in preparation for the May 1 Chili Cook-off. The event will feature live music, beer and food. When: noon-6 p.m. Where: Avondale Brewing Co. Website: exceptionalfoundation.org

Historic Night Tour

Sloss Furnaces will be open for a night tour, featuring a historic presentation from the facility’s curator

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OTMJ

6 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

Rehab Reality... by Judy Butler

Power of Pink

Cobb Has Fun Wearing Pink While Participating in Real Men Wear Pink Breast Cancer Fundraiser

This is the time of year that parents plan or explore Summer Camp for their children. Coming to Bayshore Retreat can be considered Camp for adults. Summer camp is where children interact with many different friends instead of the ‘regular’ friends from their neighborhood and school. Coming to Bayshore Retreat offers interaction with others through the day-to-day activities: meals, gym trips, yoga, Life Skills activities and group sessions. Most importantly, with only six clients at a time, they get to hear and understand that they are not alone in this struggle with addiction. I recently spoke with someone who is planning to come to Bayshore Retreat soon. His wife lost her life to cancer a couple of years ago and afterward his life spiraled out of control with alcohol. Formerly a social drinker, now he drinks to numb the pain. We can’t bring his wife back, but we can give him a new perspective for his future through the different forms of counseling we offer, with at least two individual sessions a week. Often, grateful previous clients call just to check on us and remind us how important their time was at Bayshore Retreat. Our goal is to get clients healthy physically and mentally with a new lease on life for the future. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction from a life trauma or just life in general, Bayshore Retreat can help. Call us today! We might be the “Retreat” or “Camp” needed to get life on track. Bayshore Retreat is Different that can make a Difference.

Trip Cobb didn’t have much pink in his wardrobe before this month. But this month, he has been wearing lots of pink. “It’s just a color,” Cobb said with a laugh. “Color has no gender.” Besides, Cobb is donning the pastel for something dear to him, fighting breast cancer. He is participating in the American Cancer Society’s Real Men Wear Pink campaign. “It’s fun to wear pink and raise funds for a good cause,” Cobb said. In the campaign’s sixth year in Central Alabama, 17 prominent area men are taking a stand against breast cancer by participating. They are wearing pink throughout February. “Breast cancer affects everyone,” said Aubie Clements, community development manager for the American Cancer Society. “One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. These are sisters, mothers, grandmothers and friends. “That’s why I think these outstanding gentlemen have joined the American Cancer Society in support of this lifesaving work. This is a cause they personally believe in and are committed to raising awareness and funds for the fight against breast cancer.” Cobb, a Birmingham resident and sales consultant for Tito’s Handmade Vodka, is grateful for the opportunity to participate along with other community leaders throughout the nation because it gives men a leadership role in the fight against breast cancer, using the power of pink to raise awareness and money for the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer initiatives, including innovative research, patient services and education about screenings and risk reduction. “I’m extremely proud and honored

Photos courtesy American Cancer Society

By Rubin E. Grant

Think of Going to Bayshore Retreat as “Going to Camp”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

Trip Cobb at the end of last week had raised nearly $8,000.

to be amongst these other amazing and selfless men striving to raise awareness and funds to make a difference in Alabama and beyond by participating in the Real Men Wear Pink Campaign benefiting the American Cancer Society,” Cobb said. Plus, during his fundraising campaign, Cobb has gotten to tell people about two breast cancer survivors who are close to him. “I know two incredible women who helped raise my awareness about breast cancer, Nancy Smith and Beth Bellanti,” Cobb said. “Nancy Smith is my best friend’s mother, who battled it twice and has beaten it both times. But it took a toll on her life and my best friend’s life. “Beth is my good friend and colleague. Beth spearheads my company’s Vodka for Dog People initiative and has been fighting for the safety and survival of our furry companions for years until she had to start her own fight with breast cancer. After she was diagnosed and went through treatments, she lost her hair, but she beat it and her hair is growing back out.” Their fights against the disease have left an indelible impression on Cobb. “I’m honestly just unbelievably moved by their perseverance, integrity

and strong will, as I am with all cancer survivors, as I personally cannot imagine the fortitude and personal strength that it must take to overcome such a deadly disease, let alone deal with its side effects and the rigorous treatment,” he said. Real Men participants nationwide compete to be the top fundraiser among their peers by the end of the campaign. The Real Men Wear Pink campaign in Central Alabama is the first campaign to kick off in 2021. “The COVID pandemic has given cancer the advantage, as women were forced to postpone regular breast cancer screenings (last) year,” Clements said. “We are grateful to our Real Men Wear Pink participants for lending their voices to raise awareness and funds for everyone fighting breast cancer.” According to the American Cancer Society Facts & Figures 2021, an estimated 284,200 people in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and an estimated 44,130 will die from the disease this year. In Alabama, 4,460 women will be diagnosed this year and 720 will die from the disease. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, and it is the most common cancer diagnosed in women other than skin cancer.

Red Nose Ball Goes Virtual to Support SmileA-Mile

Smile-A-Mile will host its largest and longest-running fundraising event of the year on Feb. 27, adjusted to provide virtual fun. The annual Red Nose Ball raises funds for the organization’s yearround programming for pediatric cancer patients and survivors and their families. A silent auction and a premier auction opened for bidding Feb. 22, offering up beach and lake house trips, private dining experiences, artwork, jewelry, experience packages, staycations, technology and more packages and items. Virtual festivities will begin at 6 p.m. and will be streamed on Vimeo, YouTube and Facebook. Also included will be a Diamonds Direct Raffle, virtual photo booth and live program. For more information, visit rednoseball.com.

Over-the-Top Response

The goal for Real Men Wear Pink of Central Alabama is $100,000. Cobb’s initial goal was $7,500, but he raised that amount already because of the response he’s gotten from donors, especially from friends who work in the hospitality industry and for restaurants. Toward the end of last week, he had raised nearly $8,000. “I’ve upped it to $12,000,” Cobb said. “I already made my goal, so I decided to increase it and try to go as high as I can. Plus, I want to win as the top fundraiser.” For more information about breast cancer or the Real Men Wear Pink campaign in Central Alabama, visit RealMenBham.com.

The annual Red Nose Ball raises funds for the organization’s yearround programming for pediatric cancer patients and survivors and their families. Jason and Lauren Kassouf, above, at last year’s inperson event.

Schoolhouse Rock Goes Virtual “Keep Rockin’” is the motto as Cornerstone Schools of Alabama’s junior board plans its 16th annual Schoolhouse Rock, set for March 12. This year’s popular event will look a bit different. Attendees can pick up the party and take it home. Party packages include a meal for four by Moe’s Original BBQ and Cornerstone gifts. Sponsors will get specialty VIP party packages complete with TrimTab craft beer, exclusive VIP gifts and a chance to find one of several golden tickets to win vacation packages and more. Proceeds benefit the students at Cornerstone Schools. For more information, visit one.bidpal.net/shr #Rockin4Kids.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 7

ABOUT TOWN

From page 5

include Joi Brown, executive director of the Jefferson County Memorial Project; JCMP Fellows; and BMA curatorial assistant Hina Zaida. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: online via Zoom Website: artsbma.org

March 11-14 Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach Jr. Virginia Samford Theatre’s VSTARS participants will perform this kidfriendly adaptation of Roald Dahl’s famous children’s book. When: check website for showings Where: Virginia Samford Theatre Website: virginiasamfordtheatre.org

March 12-13

Jennifer, Isabella, John and John Manzelli enjoying a Brunch with the Bachelors event last year.

BAMOM Twice as Nice Sale

The Birmingham Area Mothers of Multiples will host its biannual sale of gently used children’s and maternity clothing, shoes, and more. When: March 12, 4:30-8:30 p.m. (public sale); March 13, 8 a.m.-noon (halfpriced sale) Where: Metropolitan Church of God Website: “Twice As Nice Sale (BAMOM)” Facebook page

Journal file photos by Jordan Wald

BRUNCH WITH THE BACHELORS SUN. MARCH 7

The Zoo will host another installment of its brunch event series, with a meal served al fresco by the Boma Yard while elephants roam close by. The event will feature a special elephant interaction with the Zoo’s Animal Care Professionals. When: 10 a.m. - noon Where: The Birmingham Zoo Website: birminghamzoo.com

Personalized care right in your neighborhood In-person and virtual visits now available From the routine to the unexpected, count on the compassionate, personalized care teams at Ascension St. Vincent’s Primary Care Mayfair. Our primary care team listens to understand you and your health concerns, to help make sure you’re getting the best care possible. And if you need to come in person for a visit, know that we are maintaining strict safety precautions to protect you and your family. Find out whether a virtual visit is an option for your care.

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment, call 205-875-3776.

Robert Murray, MD

William Patterson, MD

Margaret Turner, DO

NEWS

8 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘Near-flawless Fashion’ Mountain Brook Defies COVID, Ends Year With a Surplus

COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the finances of many cities across the country – but not Mountain Brook. “The city is in great shape despite the craziest year in its history,” Mayor Stewart Welch said during his State of the City address Feb. 19. “Mountain Brook remains literally the numberone city in the state in terms of its finances. We’re in good shape now, we’re in good shape going forward.” That wasn’t always a given, he said. “When COVID hit, our first estimates were that we may end up with a deficit of $1 million or more. As it turns out, instead of a deficit, we actually ended up with a surplus of about $700,000.” Welch said the city kept operating “in near-flawless fashion” during the pandemic, which he attributed to the work of city department heads and the “unwavering leadership” of the City Council. “We didn’t always agree 100%, but everybody backed everybody up, came to a consensus, made the very best decisions we could, and I think in the end those decisions were the right decisions,” he said. He also thanked City Manager Sam Gaston and Assistant City Manager Steve Boone, who also serves as the city’s finance director. “They have steered this ship in what has been incredibly turbulent waters,” he said. Welch said he expects Mountain Brook to end 2021 with a surplus, as well. He added that he’s no longer worried about the city’s $30 million unfunded pension liability, which had been a major concern for his administration. “During 2020, we did a deep dive and hired a third-party consultant to take a closer look at this,” he said.

15% 25%

‘When COVID hit, our first estimates were that we may end up with a deficit of $1 million or more. As it turns out, instead of a deficit, we actually ended up with a surplus of about $700,000.’ MAYOR STEWART WELCH

“After working with them, we are now convinced that this problem will resolve itself over the next 20 or 30 years,” Welch said. Despite this rosy financial outlook, the city does plan to borrow some money this year. “This is the first time in a long time,” that the city has borrowed money, Welch said. The loan could be between $3 million and $5 million and would go toward upgrading athletic facilities for Mountain Brook City Schools. “That’s something that’s long been needed and something that all of us are very interested in being involved with,” Welch said.

Status of City Projects

Welch was joined at the meeting by members of the City Council, who provided updates on other capital

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projects in the city. The planned traffic roundabouts in Mountain Brook Village have been delayed, but not because of COVID, said Councilor Virginia Smith. Work on the Jefferson County sewer system, expected to start next year and extend through 2023, has pushed the project back. The roundabouts have been in the works since 2013, Smith said. Once the project finally starts, it should take a total of 18 months to complete. She added that the survey of the property involved did not reveal any unmarked graves, which had been a concern for developers; a large, unmarked cemetery lies under the nearby Birmingham Zoo and Botanical Gardens. “If they found any (bodies), that would have set us back even more, regardless of the sewer problem,” Smith said. “Luckily, they did not find any unmarked graves in the area. All the anomalies were just roots and unmarked debris.” Work on the nearby Lane Parke, the city’s luxury mixed-use development, is moving much more quickly, despite some COVID-related delays.

“There’s good news to report,” said Councilor Billy Pritchard. “A year ago at this time, phase two of this project was set to begin sometime in May. Of course, we all know what happened in March … . Everything came to an abrupt stop and complete shutdown.” Now, he said, construction is geared to start in March.

“Hopefully, nothing will slow us down at this point,” Pritchard said. “It’s been a long and arduous project for us to get here due to circumstances beyond anybody’s control.” Phase two of Lane Parke will add more space for retail and restaurants, as well as a small park. Construction should be completed by late spring of next year.

Kiwanis Club of HomewoodMountain Brook Hosts DriveThru Pancake Breakfast

and can be purchased online; visit the Kiwanis Club of Homewood-Mountain Brook Facebook page.

Commons. According to officials, the meals will be simpler than in years past and will include a sandwich, salad, chips and dessert. Food will be served on a first-come, first-served basis from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m.

The 37th annual Kiwanis Club of Homewood-Mountain Brook Pancake Breakfast will be March 13. This year’s event will be drivethru only from 7 a.m. until noon at the Exceptional Foundation in Homewood. Over the years, the event has raised money for the community’s youth, providing financial support to volunteer and community service organizations and their projects, such as Children’s of Alabama, Girl Scouts of North Central Alabama, Spring Park in Homewood renovations, local Head Start programs, The Red Barn, Homewood Public Library and the Barrett Elementary outdoor classroom. The beneficiary of this year’s fundraising will be the Homewood City Schools Foundation. Money raised will support grant opportunities to educators with innovative classroom projects and professional development. In addition, the organization sponsors youth organizations, including high school key clubs at Vestavia Hills, Homewood, ClayChalkville and Hewitt-Trussville; as well as the Aktion Club at the Exceptional Foundation; and the Homewood Middle School Builders Club. Tickets for the breakfast are $5

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Sam Prickett

Phase two of Lane Parke will add more space for retail and restaurants, as well as a small park. Construction should be completed by late spring of next year.

Church of the Advent Adjusts Annual Lenten Series Amid Pandemic Each year, Cathedral Church of the Advent spends the season leading up to Easter Sunday honoring Lent through a series of lectures and lunches. Due to the pandemic, the 2021 Lenten Preaching Series is a little bit different. The series consists of in-person lectures on weekdays from 12:05 p.m. to 12:30 p.m., as well as live streaming at adventbirmingham.org/live and on the church’s Facebook and YouTube pages. Audio recordings also are available at audio.adventbirmingham. org. The series began with speeches by Episcopal Diocese of Alabama’s bishop, Glenda Curry, on Feb. 17; interim senior pastor Tim Blackmon of River Rock Church in Folsom, California, on Feb. 18 and 19; and Charleston Wilson, rector of Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota, Florida, on Feb. 22 to 24. Those who attend in person should register online beforehand at adventbirmingham.org/lent as attendance will be limited. Masks are required. Following each service, lunches are served to-go in the church’s Clingman

BMA Reschedules Museum Ball to Sept. 11 The Birmingham Museum of Art recently announced new dates for its Museum Ball 2021. Co-chairs Sallie R. Johnson, Garland Smith, Sumner Johnson Rives and Lindsay Smith Puckett are planning the return of Birmingham’s longest-running event fundraiser as an in-person occasion on Sept. 11. The annual ball is the Birmingham Museum of Art’s largest fundraiser. It not only showcases the museum’s collection, it also highlights the programs and events the BMA brings to the Birmingham area. From school tours and community outreach to innovative exhibitions and public programs, the programs funded through the ball enable the BMA to remain at the forefront of Alabama’s cultural landscape. To make a contribution or reservation for the 2021 Museum Ball, contact Erin Everett, BMA development events manager, at eeverett@artsbma.org or 205-2978062.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Dr. Martin Heslin Wins Lectureship, Named to Head Mobile Cancer Center UAB has established the Martin J. Heslin Endowed Lectureship to recognize the work and career of Dr. Martin J. Heslin, until recently the UAB Department of Surgery vice chair and UAB Hospital chief Dr. Martin J. Heslin of medical staff. The lectureship was established with a $75,000 donation from the Robert E. Reed Gastrointestinal Oncology Research Foundation. It supports gastrointestinal (GI) cancer research and knowledge-sharing between national research institutions and seeks to enhance the field of GI oncology. “This lectureship, only made possible by the Reed Foundation, is an incredible honor. The lectureship is not only part of my future legacy

here at UAB, but it is part of the legacy of Robert E. Reed.” Heslin said. Heslin recently began work as the executive director of the Mitchell Cancer Institute in Mobile. Reed, who had been chairman & CEO of RealtySouth, was battling pancreatic cancer when the Reed Foundation was formed in 2002 to further his belief that creating a focus on GI cancer research and patient care would accelerate discovery of a cure. Reed died the same year. The foundation, which has the catch line “Finish the Fight,” held its first fundraiser, an Iron Bowl Party, in 2004 and since then has raised awareness and funds for research into GI cancers. “I am deeply appreciative of the Reed Foundation’s generous donation and their partnership with UAB throughout the years to support research, treatment and awareness of gastrointestinal cancers,” Heslin said in a statement. —Virginia Martin

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 9

NEWS

UAB Named Best Large Employer by Forbes Forbes has named the University of Alabama at Birmingham to the No. 1 spot on its America’s Best Large Employers list. In the article about UAB’s ranking, Forbes recognized the university and hospital for supplying personal protective gear to its workers and for its ability to involve the community in obtaining donations of the gear. It also mentioned UAB’s supplying mental health resources to employees during a pandemic year. The ranking also relied on results from a survey that asked employees to

rate on a scale of zero to 10 how likely they would be to recommend their employer to friends and family. “We often say our people are what make UAB special,” UAB President Ray L. Watts said in a statement from the university. “What makes Forbes’ recognition so meaningful is that it is based largely on whether our employees would recommend UAB to friends and family. Especially after such a challenging year, knowing that our people are proud to be part of the UAB family is eternally humbling and gratifying.”

UAB beat out more than 500 public and private corporations, hospitals, universities and Fortune 500 companies across dozens of industries for the top spot on the list. UAB employs more than 23,000 people across its university and hospital entities, has more than 22,000 enrolled students, and has an annual economic impact exceeding $7 billion on the state, according to its statement. Rounding out other employers among the top five in Forbes’ list are: Ultimate Kronos Group, Mayo Clinic, Costco Wholesale and Yale University. —Virginia Martin

Let the sunshine in.

Hoover Area Chamber Taps New President and CEO

Toni Herrera-Bast, previously vice president of public relations with the YWCA of Central Alabama, has been hired as president and CEO of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce, a job she starts March 1. The chambers’ board of directors considered more than 70 applicants before Toni Herrera-Bast narrowing down its choice to Herrera-Bast. “Toni has an extensive background in public relations and communications; this, combined with experience in not-for-profit and for-profit management executive positions, makes Toni very qualified to lead our chamber,” board chairman Paul Dangel said in a statement from the chamber. “We expect Toni to not only continue the

Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce’s excellent programs, but to work with partners, members, investors and community stakeholders as we launch a strategic plan with the goal of bringing the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce to an amazing new level.” Before her position with the YWCA, Herrera-Bast was the director of media for the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and she served as the PR and marketing manager for the Birmingham Airport Authority. “I am excited to join the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce,” Herrera-Bast said in the statement. “I look forward to using my experience in nonprofit and for-profit to benefit the chamber’s future by way of a strong strategic plan that is aligned with the city’s priorities. I look forward to working with the chamber’s board of directors, Mayor Frank Brocato, Hoover City Council and Hoover business leaders to take the chamber to even greater heights.” —Virginia Martin

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LIFE

10 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Won’t You Be My Neighbor? Grassroots Organization MB Listens Seeks to Spread Acceptance in Mountain Brook

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

8 Identities

T. Marie King, head of Local Voices Network Alabama

Dr. Rita Goyal, MD Family Medical Specialist

The Rev. Rich Webster, Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church

Danny Cohn, CEO Birmingham Jewish Federation

MB Listens Advisory Board

Colette Grodner, cofounder, Global Prep Program

Yvas Witherspoon, co-founder, Brother Let’s Talk

Photos courtesy MB Listens

or many in the community, the summer of 2020 will remain a tumultuous memory – a time when many felt trapped in their homes and downtrodden in society in more ways than one. Nevertheless, some good came out of it. For Mountain Brook resident Kevin Cornes, father of three Mountain Brook City Schools students, one of those silver linings was the birth of MB Listens. Cornes is founding chairman of the grassroots nonprofit organization, made up of residents committed to making the community a safe and accepting place for everyone. They accomplish this by delving into the history of Mountain Brook and reasons the community lacks diversity. They promote introspective education to learn how to be better neighbors and support people in the community who are marginalized for any reason. “It’s always been in the back of my mind that I’d like to do something to raise awareness – number one,” Cornes said. “Number two: help people who feel like they may be marginalized – especially youth – feel that they are not alone.” It was the months of May and June in 2020 that provided the push Cornes needed to get started. “A lot was going on, nationally as well as locally,” he said. “There was an anti-Semitic incident that happened that involved maybe some Mountain Brook High School kids and other kids as well.” He first reached out to now-Vice Chairwoman Laura Steele to help develop his idea for a grassroots group that meets in living rooms or other intimate settings. “And that’s how it started out,” he said. “We started putting word out to friends and family and we had to cut it off to 20 because the response was so overwhelming.” It was a great problem to have. It meant they needed to step things up. Board members and advisory board members began meeting virtually, breaking into groups to take a closer look at what MB Listens should seek to achieve. “We started looking at things like school diversity, how we could raise awareness through a speaker series, could we develop a website, could we develop a Facebook page – just trying to raise awareness,” he said. “All on a shoestring budget.” The organization opened to the public with its website on Nov. 20 and in late January earned its non-profit 501(c)(3) status. “We’re just trying to make ourselves better and help people feel accepted and welcomed,” Cornes said. “If we lead by example and if we do a good job of that, other things might happen. Perceptions, outside of Mountain Brook especially, may start to shift. Perceptions of ourselves in Mountain Brook might start to shift. We may see that we can do more to be good neighbors.” He noted that, realistically, there may be people who want to believe that the group is doing more. They may see MB Listens as the type to

Ashfaq Taufique, president emeritus, Birmingham Islamic Society

Robbie Lee, PR director, The Exceptional Foundation

spark a protest or drive big policy change, but that simply isn’t its mission. It is focused on the individual. “If you are gay and you feel like you can’t tell your family or your church, just knowing that something like MB Listens exists might be helpful,” he said. “You know that there are people who accept you just as you are. If you are

Valerie Boyd, dir. of SAGE Ministry, Canterbury United Methodist Church

Dr. Mike Wilson, founding principal, Magic City Acceptance Academy

part of a religion not in the majority and you are being teased or not completely treated equally, we want you knowing that there are people in the community that accept you for who you are.” Membership into the organization is free and the community does not disclose member names as a rule.

‘If we lead by example and if we do a good job of that, other things might happen. Perceptions, outside of Mountain Brook especially, may start to shift. Perceptions of ourselves in Mountain Brook might start to shift. We may see that we can do more to be good neighbors.’ KEVIN CORNES, MB LISTENS, FOUNDING CHAIRMAN

“Year one is all about raising awareness and trying to draw attention to those who may be marginalized and want to feel accepted and welcomed and supported,” Cornes said. It’s all about educating ourselves, he added. Everyone from board members to those following the movement are first working on how they can better educate themselves and recognize issues in the community that lead to people being marginalized. “A lot of people these days are focused on things like race and religion, because it’s probably where the most attention is drawn to these days,” he said. “It’s very important to us that it’s not just about race and religion. It’s everybody.” MB Listens uses the term “grass ears” to describe “the 8 identities” that the community is focused on. These are gender identity, race, age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, ability and religion. “We are really fortunate in that we have a phenomenal advisory board with people like Valerie Boyd, who heads the Sage ministry (at Canterbury United Methodist Church), who has given us great advice and guidance on how to support older adults,” he said. The board list also includes local professionals including Robbie Lee, public relations director for The Exceptional Foundation; Mike Wilson, founding principal of the Magic City Acceptance Academy; and Danny Cohen, CEO of the Birmingham Jewish Federation. MB Listen’s first speaker event, held virtually Jan. 30, featured advisory board member and local speaker and activist T. Marie King. She spoke on the topic of how to understand implicit bias and how to become more empathetic. “If number one of what we are trying to do is be accepting and welcoming to the community as a whole, then 1-a is being introspective and working on ourselves,” Cornes said. “Trying to help ourselves understand our own biases and help ourselves be more empathetic so we can build bridges and not be divisive as we understand each other within the community.” He noted that the entire board was blown away by the number of people who signed on for the first event. “We didn’t know if it would be 10 people or just the 20 founding members who would show up for that and it ended up being 96,” he said. Cornes noted that the board has not been one to set arbitrary goals for themselves but is more focused on letting things flow naturally. “We are running a marathon,’ Cornes noted. In the near future, the organization plans to host more virtual speaker events, but the ultimate goal is to return to that original grassroots idea – meeting in person and having face-to-face conversations – once it is healthy and safe to do so. In the near future, MB Listens is working on setting up a Youth Council for ages 16-25. Those interested can email their resumes to welcome@mblistens.com. For future updates, visit mblistens.com or follow the organization’s Facebook page.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Health Checkup

Vestavia Hills TrustCare’s Dr. David Hardin Discusses Primary Care and Heart Health By Emily Williams-Robertshaw Since the Vestavia Hills location of TrustCare opened on Jan. 4, Dr. David Hardin has been hard at work. The clinic has a combination of primary care offerings as well as fulfilling urgent care needs. Following the holiday season and its coinciding uptick in COVID-19 cases, TrustCare was slammed with coronavirus testing appointments. “Now we seem to be on the other side of this,” Hardin said. “We’re seeing numbers go back down and we are starting to see some of those cases we forgot about.” In the times of coronavirus, it can be easy to forget about the seasonal sinus infections, he said. Though Hardin is new to TrustCare, he isn’t new to Birmingham. He grew up in Homewood and attended school in the city for a time before moving to nearby Alabaster. “I went to Edgewood Elementary long ago,” he said. “Then I moved to Alabaster and went to high school at Thompson.” After receiving his medical degree at the University of Alabama’s School of Medicine, Hardin completed his residency and

received special training at Brookwood Baptist Health with an emphasis in sports medicine. “I did a mix of seeing regular primary care patients but then would take referrals or walk-ins if somebody had an orthopedic complaint,” he said. His work also included serving as a Dr. David Hardin physician for local sports teams, including several high school teams as well as Birmingham’s short-lived professional football team. “I was one of the doctors that handled concussions specifically for the Birmingham Iron,” he said. When Hardin joined the TrustCare team at the company’s first Birmingham location, on Montclair Road, he had a vision not only to provide primary care and urgent care but also to create partnerships with teams. This time, TrustCare is working to partner with local companies to provide primary care services for their staffs.

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 11

LIFE Attention to Heart Health

During this pandemic, health has been at the forefront of many minds. In February, national attention is paid to heart health as the American Heart Association recognizes American Heart Month. For those looking to up their heart healthy routine, Hardin pointed to the regular contenders with which many struggle: diet and exercise. He notes that it is important to stay away from highly processed foods, carb-rich dishes such as French fries and sugary desserts. In addition, Hardin said heavy exercise is called “cardio” for a reason. Getting in heart-pumping exercise helps strengthen the heart’s ability to pump efficiently. “Speaking a little bit more specifically to COVID, we know that people with low vitamin D don’t tend to do as well,” Hardin said. “So, taking some over-the-counter vitamin D and getting a little bit of sunshine as much as you can can help both from a COVID standpoint and in general health and wellbeing.” A good sleep schedule is also something to work on maintaining. “Sleeping in and constantly connecting to a device while we are in quarantine can really wreak havoc on our sleep cycles,” Hardin said. He suggests limiting caffeine after lunchtime and going to bed at the same time every night. When it comes to staying up late

to get that last email written and sent, consider the light from your computer. It can throw off your body clock and make it harder to get to sleep. “We know that a huge percentage of heart attacks actually occur in the morning hours, so that can be a time when our body is under stress,” Hardin said. “We don’t want to add any more stress to that by being off on our sleep patterns.” There are many things that we can do alone to be healthy, but they do not replace the kind of monitoring available through a medical professional. “There are things that we want to track sequentially,” he said. “Like how your heart sounds. You want someone to listen to that several times over the course of your lifetime, because it’s going to change.” The plumbing of the heart is something that evolves over time, and it’s important for a physician to monitor it. “We want to make sure you’re taking in those good fats and omega-3s,” he said. “Taking an over-the-counter fish oil is beneficial for nearly everybody,” Hardin said. “A blood test can kind of help you dial that in even more.” Especially for those with a family history of heart disease, things such as lab tests and EKGs can provide doctors with a clearer image of how the heart is working. Through testing, doctors can

begin to prescribe cholesterol medicine, if needed. Some people can benefit from a stricter change in diet or more exercise. At TrustCare, Hardin and his team are available for heart heath counseling, among a variety of services that help give patients the full picture of how to maintain or improve their health. Hardin advocates having a relationship with a primary care physician you can talk to about your health and who can monitor changes throughout your life. “We’re not here to judge, but we can’t help you if we don’t know what is going on,” Hardin said. “The most important thing through all of this is having a relationship with a physician. If you’ve got a relationship, we will get to know you and know case-by-case what we need to do to keep you healthy,”

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12 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ANCHORED IN HOPE

Legacy League Scholarship Luncheon Features Author Susan Alexander Yates

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

nchored in Hope: Finding Wisdom for Every Season” was the topic for the Legacy League’s annual Scholarship Luncheon, held Feb. 11 at Vestavia Country Club. Keynote speaker for the event was bestselling author Susan Alexander Yates, an international speaker, blogger and columnist. During the program, Yates shared messages relevant for all ages and stages of life. Later in the evening, Yates gave her speech “Finding Peace in Times of Uncertainty” in a program at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Homewood. Proceeds from both events will provide life-changing scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances. The Legacy League, a volunteer organization with nearly 800 members ranging in age from 22 to 100, raises funds to provide scholarships for students with significant financial needs and challenging circumstances. ❖

Susan Yates, Madge Noland and Molly Bee Bloetscher.

Teresa Wilson, Shea Posey and Kristina Bergball.

Barbara Anderson and Inga Clum.

Julie Boyd, Paula Gossett and Scarlet Stearns.

Ingram Link and Jan Cobb.

Kathy Clay and Nelda Pugh.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 13

SOCIAL

Amanda McCary, Patricia Koski, Melissa Howell, Stephanie Koski and Lindsey Hardaway. Meredith Wesner, Emma Helms, Brooklyn Morgan and Anna Thomas.

‘Ladies Celebrating Ladies’

Zoo Sells Out Galentine’s Day Brunch on the Balcony Popularized by the NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day is a celebration of female friendship – or, as a character on the program says, “ladies celebrating ladies” – that is recognized on Feb. 13 each year. The Birmingham Zoo organized its first-ever Galentine’s Day Balcony Brunch on the Saturday before Valentine’s Day. Guests gathered on the zoo’s private terrace overlooking Henley Park and were served breakfast and mimosas. Activities at the sold-out event included meet and greets with some of the zoo’s animal ambassadors, followed by walks around the zoo and rides on the Red Diamond Express Train. ❖

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14 • Thursday, February 25, 2021  You are able to walk across a small room without the use of any type of assistive device (cane/walker)

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Sponsored by the Reed Foundation and the THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM

For more information, please call: 205-996-3005

PARTICIPANTS NEEDED Journal photos by Jordan Wald

If you have a plan for surgery or have had surgery within the past 3 years for cancer of the liver, bile duct, gallbladder, esophagus, stomach, or pancreas then you may qualify for UAB’s PACE study. You will receive exercise and nutrition counseling provided by trained dietitian and exercise specialist. Debbie Rutherford, Melanie Posey, Frank and Frances Brocato.

A Helping Hand

Hoover Service Club Hosts February General Meeting

Contact our staff to see if you qualify: (205) 975 – 0002 Or email: moveforward@uab.edu

IIIGUINIII

After taking January off, the Hoover Service Club hosted its first general meeting of the new year on Feb. 11 at the Hoover Country Club. Keynote speaker for the program was Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato. Through the monthly community service project, the group organized support for Hoover Helps, a Hooverbased nonprofit that works to provide food to school-aged children who experience food insecurity in any of Hoover City School’s 13 facilities. The meeting included the installation of new officers: Rhonda Boyd, president; Debbie Rutherford, first vice president; Liz Elliott, second vice president; Deborah Weyandt, third vice president; Rachel Kent Trowbridge, recording secretary; Kim Allen, corresponding secretary; and Bonnie Campbell, treasurer. ❖

Lois Taylor, Rachel Kent Trowbridge and Leisa Pitts.

Darlene Higginbotham, Kim Allen and Nance Kohnen.

Vicki Nutter, Elaine Thompson and Ardith McMicken.

205-595-4846

www.guinservice.com Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Generators

SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS!

To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 205-823-9646 or email editorial@otmj.com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL

They Say It’s Your Birthday

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 15

Encore Respite Staff Organizes Socially Distant Singing Telegrams

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Encore Respite Ministry staff at Canterbury United Methodist Church have been separated from the ministry’s programming for people with memory loss and their caregivers. Special events, such as drive-thru parties with fun activities, have been hosted on occasion, and now, the Encore staff has organized singing telegrams to celebrate participant birthdays from a social distance. On Feb. 12, about 20 staff members and volunteers got together to visit one participant at their home in Hoover and another who resides in Mountain Brook. In addition to singing Happy Birthday, the visitors donned their party hats and presented celebratory balloons, posters and gifts. ❖

Above and left, in addition to singing Happy Birthday, Encore Respite Ministry staff and volunteers donned their party hats and presented celebratory balloons, posters and gifts. Far left, Joan one of Encore’s Mountain Brook participants with family members at her birthday celebration.

Rare Opportunity 4 Lots Available

Homesites for Sale in Prestigious Gated Vestavia Hills Community: $109,000 Only 4 lots remain in the exclusive community of Viridian, one mile off Highway 31 on Tyler Road, convenient to Birmingham’s major Interstates, shopping and recreation. Bring your builder or let Wedgworth Construction design and build your dream home.

www.wedgworth.net

Mike Wedgworth (205) 365-4344

SUMMER CAMP

16 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Re-structuring Summer Camp Camp Officials Discuss How They Will Adapt to Ongoing Pandemic Effects

Alabama Ballet

The 2020 summer camp season was colored with questions as camps scrambled to regroup and reframe the ways in which they serve kids and parents amidst lockdowns and constantly evolving health and safety regulations. This year is no different, so we have caught up with the officials running three of our favorite local summer camp programs to look back on last year and to the future as they prepare for the summer of 2021.

Rachel Singletary Gates, Alabama Ballet School Administrator

The mission of the Alabama Ballet School’s summer camps falls directly in line with the mission of our professional company and school. The Alabama Ballet promotes the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high-quality performances, dance education and community outreach. The Alabama Ballet School provides the highest-quality training to aspiring artists of all ages that is developmentally appropriate both physically and artistically. We feel that educating our young dancers not only on ballet technique but on the magic of stories, dance history and the total performance experience builds an artistically educated audience for the future of Alabama Ballet as well as our vibrant community. We have offered our summer camps for over 15 years as a way to provide some of those extra experiences that aren’t the central focus of our regular school year and as a way to engage with students who may not study with us year-round.

The Altamont School Dr. Josh Barnard, Director of Summer Programs

The goal of The Altamont School’s camp program is to give children an opportunity to stay mentally active in the summer in a zero-pressure environment. Students get a chance to appreciate academic subjects as interesting in their own right, rather than as vehicles for good grades. Hopefully, they will carry this positive attitude (along with some further-honed skills) into their school year in the fall.

While some of our summer program was able to run remotely during the summer, the third through eighth grade camp did not. Personal interaction is critical for the level of interaction, involvement and excitement our camps strive to produce.

What changes have you made to safely operate this year?

Altamont’s safety protocols have been incredibly effective this past academic year, and we will carry all we’ve learned over into the summer classes. We are always re-evaluating our policies in light of changing circumstances

As camp season nears, what are you most looking forward to?

Seeing kids on campus, running around and having fun! No bells, no tests, just fun (and learning!) at school.

Red Mountain Theatre Company Drew Francis, RMTC Creative and Marketing Director

The mission of the Red Mountain Theatre Company’s summer camp is to use theatre to inspire students to create and collaborate while building personal confidence. In exploring stories, students begin to shape their views and voices in the community. When they work with peers towards an end goal, they learn the value of cooperation. When they participate in performative experiences, they gain self-esteem and the courage of self-expression. Theatre education teaches more than how to perform in front of an audience. We have been offering summer programming for almost 40 years.

Describe your experience during the summer of 2020 in response to the pandemic.

Summer of 2020 definitely brought a lot of uncertainty for everyone’s programming. After being at home for most of the spring, we knew that children were itching to get back to dance and interacting with other children. After a delayed start to our 2020 summer camps, we kept our class sizes smaller and required masks for all participants. I’m sure we were not the only ones to notice that young children’s stamina for being away from home had to be rebuilt! We all practiced more patience with each other as we began these summer camps. What changes have you made to safely operate this year?

Describe your experience during the summer of 2020 in response to the pandemic.

For our ‘20-‘21 school year, we rethought the way our class schedule was offered, as there was less demand for certain classes and the need for more space in others. We hope that our students have enjoyed the smaller class sizes and more personalized attention this year. Our instructors have stayed vigilant in their awareness of spacing during classes and utilizing their verbal instruction skills. Our students have been fantastic in following our health and safety protocols, including mask wearing in dance classes. Their cooperation has allowed us to continue our classes as close to ‘normal’ as possible.

When the pandemic hit, we converted all of our summer camps from in-person to virtual, and a large majority of our students stuck with us. That proved just how much our students love theatre and want to grow their artistry with us. What changes have you made to safely operate this year?

Our safety precautions include smaller class sizes, staggered start and end times, wearing masks and increased sanitation. We are also offering a few virtual camps to facilitate learning in an exciting new way!

As camp season nears, what are you most looking forward to?

Alabama Ballet

As camp season nears, I think we all look forward to a break in the routine. The summer camps allow students and teachers to enjoy exploring aspects of the art of dance at a different pace than the school year allows for. The summer camps are a more concentrated learning period, and it is amazing what comes out of those weeks!

Describe your experience during the summer of 2020 in response to the pandemic.

and will continue to do so into the summer. The changes we’ve (been) able to make to the facility as a whole in order to better allow for proper distancing and cleaning protocols are a major positive that we’re able to take out of our experience. One new set of offerings we have this year is for students going into algebra 1 or a high math (up to precalculus) next fall. We will have a math support class tailored to the students’ levels in order to fill in any gaps they may have as a result of the unexpected changes we’ve all had to make this past year.

We are most looking forward to getting our family back together in a safe, supportive environment and helping students reach for their potential. We’re also excited to do all of our camps and classes in one place, our new home, Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus. It’s located in the heart of Parkside near Railroad Park and easily accessible to I-65. The campus sits on one art-filled city block.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 17

CAMP GUIDE

Photos clockwise from left: McWane Science Center; Aldridge Gardens; YouthServe Birmingham; HighPoint Climbing; Red Mountain Theatre Company; Mike Getman Soccer; Camp Walkabout.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE SUMMER?

2021 OTMJ SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY

ACADEMICS/ENRICHMENT ADVENTure Camp at Advent Episcopal School Advent Episcopal School offers a variety of programs to engage, enrich and entertain students of all ages through the summer break. Centered at Advent, camps are designed to stimulate and challenge students over the course of six weeks. A special “Jump Ahead!” math class in July will offer 5th-8th graders a chance to refresh skills and prepare for the academic year ahead. Ages: Grades Pre-K through 8, rising Dates: June 7-July 30 (closed July 1-6) Website: adventurecampbham.org Email: summer@adventepiscopalschool.org Telephone: (205) 252-2535 Address: 2019 6th Ave., N., Birmingham 35203

Baylor Summer This unique camp experience provides opportunities for campers of all ages to improve their skills, pursue new interests. Campers will explore Baylor’s 690-acre campus situated on the Tennessee River and utilize our premier athletic facilities. Instructors represent the “best of Baylor,” with coaches, teachers and Baylor students using their expertise and passion for working with children to create a memorable summer of fun. Ages: 5-17 Dates: May 31-Aug. 6 Website: baylorschool.org/summer Email: cstewart@baylorschool.org Telephone: (423) 757-2616 Address: 171 Baylor School Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37405

Summer at Altamont With Summer at Altamont, the next adventure is on top of the hill. Whether campers are looking to get ahead, sharpen their skills, or have fun with friends at camp, Altamong has something for everyone looking to make this a summer an unforgettable one. Ages: Grades 3-12, rising Dates: June and July Website: summerataltamont.org Email: jbarnard@altamontschool.org Telephone: (205) 879-2006 Address: The Altamont School, 4801 Altamont Rd., S. Birmingham

Hilltop Montessori School Open to all students in the Birmingham area who love learning, Hilltop offers morning immersion in an accredited Montessori program, conveniently located off Highway 280 near Greystone. Certified and experienced classroom teachers offer an individualized experience in a fun summer atmosphere. Ages: 18 months through age 6 Dates: June and July Website: hilltopmontessori.com Email: hms@hilltopmontessori.com Telephone: (205) 437-9343 Address: 6 Abbott Square, Birmingham 35242

Highlands Summer Camp Highlands offers Traditional Day Camp, Enrichment Camps, 4K and Kindergarten Camps, and a Counselor in Training Leadership Program for older kids. Day camp is theme-driven with arts & crafts, fields trips, swimming and more. Skill-specific enrichment camps offer a range of activities, including athletics, art and more. Ages: Ages 4-13 for camps; Counselor in Training for rising 7th-11th Grade Dates: June 7-July 30 (closed July 5-9) Website: highlandsschool.org Email: gmccool@highlandsschool.org Telephone: (205) 956-9731, ext. 105 Address: Highlands School, 4901 Old Leeds Rd., Birmingham Summer @ Springs Campers looking to sharpen the mind or strengthen skills can do so with Summer @ Springs’ wide range of academic enrichment courses, including ACT and SAT boot camps, driver’s education, cooking, debate camp, French camp, creative writing workshops and more. Faculty are dedicated professionals. Ages: Grades 7-12 Website: summeratsprings.org Email: summer@indiansprings.org Telephone: (205) 332-0579 Address: Indian Springs School, 190 Woodward Dr., Indian Springs 35214

ARTS & CRAFTS Elizabeth K. Hubbard Art’s Summer Art Camp Campers will gain experience with clay, painting, mixed media and more. Camps are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. until noon. Invite friends and cousins to join the FUN. Space is limited. Ages: Grades K-5, completed Dates: June 7-August 6 Website: elizabethkhubbardart.com Email: ekhubbard@bellsouth. Address: Studio on Linden, 2919 Linden Ave., Birmingham 35209 The Smocking Bird Summer Sewing Camps The Cahaba Heights-based shop will offer beginner and intermediate level sewing camps for children. Beginners will learn the basics of sewing and complete several sewing projects. The intermediate camp is for those who have taken sewing previously and already have knowledge of the basics. Ages: 9 and up Dates: Beginners - June 8-10, 15-17 and July 6-8, 13-15; Intermediate - June 22-24 and July 27-29 Website: thesmockingbird.com Telephone: (205) 848-2249 Address: 3118 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills 35243

CAMP GUIDE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LEADERSHIP/SERVICE Animate Samford University’s virtual summer program offers focuses in worship and the arts for teenagers and their adult mentors. Designed for 7th through 12th graders interested in becoming better worshipers or exploring vocations in a worship or arts-related field, Animate will be available in two virtual options: Animate LIVE will happen in real time, and Animate FLEX is available on one’s own time and schedule. Ages: Grades 7-12, rising Dates: June 7-11 (LIVE); June 15-July 31 (FLEX) Website: samford.edu/go/animate Email: cwa@samford.edu Telephone: (205) 726-4771 Address: 800 Lakeshore Dr., Birmingham 35229

The Dance Foundation

YouthServe Urban Service Camp Urban Service Camp is a life-changing immersive experience designed to engage youth from all walks of life together in community services. Campers live and serve alongside one another, working to enact positive change while acquiring invaluable soft skills and earning up to 45 hours of community service. Ages: 13-18 Dates: Session I – June 28-July 2; Session II – July 12-16; Changemaker Camp – July 26-30 Website: youthservebham.org Email: dross@youthservebham.org Telephone: (205) 521-6651 Address: Sessions I & II - Avondale Samaritan Place, 3829 5th Ave. S., Birmingham 35222; Changemaker session – Living River Retreat in Shelby County

MUSIC DANCE Alabama Ballet Junior Camp Students in this camp will take age-appropriate ballet classes, learn modern dance and jazz technique, and take character and/or theatre dance classes. All students will study dance history and prepare for an end-of-session performance. Ages: 8-12 Dates: July 19-30 Website: alabamaballet.org Email: rachelsingletary@alabamaballet.org Telephone: (205) 322-1874 Address: 2726 1st Ave. S., Birmingham Alabama Ballet Tutus and Tiaras For one week, four hours a day, children will take age-appropriate ballet and tap classes, create ballet-oriented crafts and learn how ballet dances tell stories with pantomime. They will also learn the stories of ballets such as The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Don Quixote, The Sleeping Beauty and other classical works. Ages: 4-7 Dates: July 19-30 Website: alabamaballet.org Email: rachelsingletary@alabamaballet.org Telephone: (205) 322-1874 Address: 2726 1st Ave. S., Birmingham The Dance Foundation Summer Programs Age-appropriate camps include Once Upon a Fairytale, Once Upon a Ballet, Adventures in Enchanted Lands, Dance Exploration, Dance Workshop and Dancing with the Camera. Camps are led by a professional staff. Weekly classes available for ages 1 to adult, as well as for children with special needs. Ages: Grades 4K-12 (camps); 12 months to

adult (summer classes) Dates: June 7-August 7 (no camps/classes July 4-10) Website: thedancefoundation.org Telephone: (205) 870-0073 Address: 1715 27th Court S., Homewood

DRAMA Red Mountain Theatre Company RMTC camps teach theatrical craft while providing performance opportunities for youth. Curriculum includes training for acting, singing, and dancing. Ages: 4-14 Dates: July 5-August 6 Website: redmountaintheatre.org/education/ courses Email: education@redmountaintheatre.org Telephone: (205) 324-2424 Address: RMT Arts Campus, 1600 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham 35233 Camp VST at Virginia Samford Theatre The VST program offers a week of fun with lessons in acting, voice, dance, playwriting, Shakespeare and more. Ages: 7-18 Dates: Session 1 – June 7-11; Session 2 – June 14-18; Session 3 – June 21-25 Website: virginiasamfordtheatre.org/vststars/ camp-vst/ Email: stars@virginiasamfordtheatre.org Telephone: (205) 251-1228 Address: 1116 26th St. S., Birmingham

Dawson Music Academy Campers explore the instrument of their choice (guitar, piano, percussion, ukulele, violin, or voice) in small group sessions with 6-10 campers who possess similar musical skills. Rec games, art electives and team building activities offered. Ages: Grades 4K-5, completed Dates: July 19-23 Website: dawsonmusicacademy.org Email: kjones@dawsonchurch.org Telephone: (205) 871-7324 Address: 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Mason Music Campers will learn foundational music concepts through fun activities and games, as they explore guitar, piano, drums, violin, and singing to see which one strikes a chord. Offerings include Summer Safari Preschool Camp (ages 3-5); Music Camp for Beginners (ages 6-9); Guitar Camp for Beginners (ages 9-13); Awesome 80s Rock Band Camp (ages 10-18); Overdrive Rock Band Camp (ages 13-18). Camp locations vary. Dates: June 14-August 6 (weeklong sessions) Website: masonmusicstudios.com Email: info@masonmusicstudios.com Address: 761 Shades Mountain Plaza, Hoover, (205) 582-2238; 2903 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook, (205) 874-9596; 3187 Cahaba Heights Rd., Vestavia Hills, (205) 908-7059; 5406 Hwy. 280 E, Suite B103, Greystone, (205) 874-9800

SCIENCE/NATURE/TECHNOLOGY Aldridge Gardens’ Summer Camp 2021 Half-day, nature-based elementary camps are held in the great outdoors from 9 a.m. until noon at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover. Weekly camps include American Girl Dolls, Art In the Garden, Engineering & construction, Myth Busters (Messy Science), Origami and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math). Ages: Grades 5K-3 & 3-5 Dates: May 31-June 25 Website: aldridgegardens.com Email: dmcdonald@aldridgegardens.com Telephone: (205) 682-8019 Address: 3530 Lorna Rd., Hoover Birmingham Zoo Camp Zoo camps are educational and encourage active learning through games, hands-on science, animal encounters and nature play. Rich in STEM-based explorations, these camps engage the natural curiosity of a child and allow ample opportunity to practice critical emerging science skills. Ages: 5-11 Dates: May 31-August 6 Website: birminghamzoo.com/education/ zoocamps Email: education@birminghamzoo.com Telephone: (205) 879-0409 Address: 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham

Animate Samford University

18 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 19

CAMP GUIDE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Birmingham Zoo Camp

2021 SUMMER CAMPS

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Discovery Hall Programs offer a variety of summer programs ranging from single-day programs to residential camps and academic courses. Highly qualified educators guide campers and students through all activities, and residential students are wellsupervised by counselors. Ages: Day Camp – ages 5-13; Overnight Camp – grades 5-12; Marine Science Course – High school. Website: disl,org/dhp/summer Email: sejohnson@disl.org Telephone: (251) 861- 2141 Address: 101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL

Gross Out Camp Fresh Air Family’s award-winning science camp uses the great outdoors for hands-on field biology. Activities include a live animal show and science experiments. Twenty campers per week are taught by expert naturalists and scientists with master’s and PhD degrees. Ages: 6-9 (campers), 10-14 (counselors-intraining) Dates: June 1-July 30 Website: GrossOutCamp.org Email: programs@FreshAirFamily.org Telephone: (205) 540-6642 Address: Camps take place at Vulcan Park at 1701 Valley View Dr., Birmingham and 601 Parkway Dr., Trussville.

JUNIOR CAMP AND TUTUS & TIARAS JULY 19-30, 2021 ALABAMABALLET.ORG

RE D MOUNTAIN THEATRE

All camps and classes are held

SUMMER CAMP 2021

on the New RMT Arts Campus!

ARTS CAMPUS 1600 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233

BROADWAY BOOTCAMP (AUDITION-BASED) This premier, audition-based camp will enhance the performance skills of all young artists through technique-based classes.

CHECK OUT OUR SPRING CLASSES! CLASSES (NON -AU DITION)

Ages 9-18 • $350 $250 (RECRUIT)- Before May 7 , $750 $700 (INT. ), $950 $850(ADV. ) - Before April 2

Our classes are specifically tailored for several different ages and skill levels and welcome to all interested students.

Mon-Fri (check web for schedule) • Audition Dates: APRIL 17 (RECRUIT), March 13 (INT./ADV.)

S I NG IT

J U LY 1 2-1 6 ( R E C R U I T ) , J U N E 2 1 -J U LY 2 ( I N T E R M E D I AT E & A DVA N C E D)

CAM PS (NON -AU DITION) RMT offers fun week-long camps that teach acting, singing, and dancing.

SUMME R BL AST J U LY 5 - 9 O R J U LY 2 6 -3 0 Ages 9-14 • $350 $250 Before March 1 • Mon-Fri 9:30AM-4:30PM

PL AY M AKI NG C A MP (HALF - DAY C A MP) J U LY 5 - 9 , J U LY 2 6 -3 0 , O R AU G U S T 2- 6 Ages 4-6 • $200 $160-Before March 1 • Mon-Fri 9AM-12PM or Mon-Fri 12:30PM-3:30PM

THEME CAMP (CAMP HALF-BLOOD, ALL ABOARD THE HOGWARTS EXPRESS) J U LY 1 9 -2 3 O R AU G U S T 2- 6 Ages 7-12 • $350 $250-Before March 1 • Mon-Fri 9:30AM-4:30PM

M AY 1 -2 2 Ages 4-6 • $100 $80 - Before March 1 • Sat 9AM-11AM

PE RFOR MI NG WITH H E ART M AY 1 -2 2 Ages 7-10 • $100 $80- Before March 1 • Sat 9:30AM-11:30AM

TAP I M AY 4 -2 5 Ages 9+ • $50 $40- Before March 1 • Tue 6PM-7PM

More camps/classes available!

For a full list, visit RedMountainTheatre.org/education

FINANCIAL AID IS AVAILABLE

20 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

McWane Science Center

CAMP GUIDE

The Exceptional Foundation

McWane Science Center Various themes and activities allow kids to experience something new each day and make learning an unforgettable adventure. Flexible programming gives parents options, ranging from an afternoon of exploration to full weeks of learning fun. Website: mcwane.org Telephone: (205) 714-8300 Address: 200 19th St. N., Birmingham

SPECIAL NEEDS The Exceptional Foundation The Exceptional Foundation offers an eightweek summer camp for school-age individuals with special needs. Activities include art, music, dance, cooking, karate, adaptive PE, and more, as well as frequent swimming and field trips days. Age: 5 and up Dates: June 7-July 30 Website: exceptionalfoundation.org/youthparticipants Email: klewis@exceptionalfoundation.org Telephone: (205) 870-0776 Address: 1616 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood 35209

SPORTS Birmingham United Soccer Association Summer Camps BUSA’s goal is to teach players to empower, enrich and excel within the community and to use the life skills learned through soccer to leave the world a better place. Summer offerings include ACL Prevention, Finishing & Goalkeeping Camp, Technical Camp, Pre-Tryout Camp, ECNL Combine and more. Ages: 5-17 Dates: May, June, July Website: birminghamunited.com/camps_clinics/

GROSS OUT CAMPS Award-winning science adventure camp in the great outdoors. Camps at Vulcan Park, Trussville on the Cahaba, Vestavia.

More at www.FreshAirFamily.org

camps/ Telephone: (205) 977-9038 Address: 3578 East St., Birmingham (Camp locations vary) High Point Summer Rock Climbing Camps Enthusiastic instructors will teach climbing skills and equipment usage as well as facilitate warmup and team building games to keep young athletes engaged, building confidence, moving and having fun. Ages: 5-14 Dates: June 30-July 30 Website: highpointclimbing.com/Birmingham/ visit/kids/camps Email: Jessi@highpointclimbing.com Telephone: (205) 981-9190 Address: 4766 US Highway 280, Birmingham Inverness Junior Tennis Academy Summer Camp Offering fun in the sun, this camp is for tennis players of all abilities, whether learning how to play or looking to further develop skills. Half and full-day camps will need a racket (extras are available), a water bottle, hat, sunglasses and a snack. Full day campers will also need a swimsuit, towel and goggles when they cool off in the pool. Ages: (205) 991-8612 Dates: June 7-July29 Website: invernessjuniortennisacademy.com Email: invernesscctennis@gmail.com or joey@ diamondclubs.com Telephone: (205) 991-8612

Address: 300 Inverness Pkwy., Hoover 35242 Mike Getman Soccer Camp (Day & residential) Soccer training for all ages. Different sessions for different ages from the most advanced player to the very beginner. Day camps include soccer and Splash Park. Ages: 5-18 Website: MikeGetmanSoccerCamp.com Email: info@mikegetmansoccercamp.com Telephone: (205) 870-0194 Address: P.O. Box 660754, Birmingham 35266 Rocking S Farm Riding Camps Rocking S Farm offers camp for all kids ages 5 and older from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. each day. Campers will have fun riding, grooming, feeding, tacking, cleaning stalls, playing games, crafts and meeting new friends. Ages: 5 and up Dates: June 14-18, July 19-23, August 2-4 Website: rickingsfarmriding.com/camps Telephone: (205) 441-9490 Address: 4141 Highway 93 North, Helena Samford University Casey Dunn Baseball Camps These age-appropriate baseball camps maximize the camp experience so campers enjoy the game and become better players. Sessions led by the Samford baseball staff, current and former Samford players, as well as other college players, college coaches and high school coaches.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

CAMP GUIDE

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 21

Address: Briarwood Presbyterian Church, 2200 Briarwood Way, Birmingham

Rocking S Farm Riding Camps

Camp Cosby An overnight camp on Lake Logan Martin near Talladega, Camp Cosby offers air-conditioned cabins and over 25 different activities for campters to take part in. Ages: 6-15 Dates: June 5-July 31 Website: ymcabham.org/camp-cosby Email: cosby@ymcabham.org Telephone: (256) 268-2007 Address: 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Rd., Alpine 35014

Ages: Grades K-7 Dates: June 14-17, June 28-July 1, July 12-15, July 19-22 Website: subaseballcamps.com Email: tgdavid@samford.edu Telephone: (205) 726-4294 Address: Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Dr., Homewood Vestavia Hills Soccer Club VHSC camps offer lessons on how to play soccer from the ground up, helping players develop their skills. The club offers soccer camp opportunities all year for all levels of players, and summer is no exception. Website: vestaviasoccer.com/camps Email: info@vestaviasoccer.com Telephone: (205) 978-0182 Address: 1973 Merryvale Rd., Vestavia Hills

TRADITIONAL Camp Briarwood (Day and residential) Since 1964, Camp Briarwood has been a place of life-changing experiences and growth for as many as 1,000 children each summer. Day Camp is held at Camp Kanawahala in Chelsea; Overnight Camp is at YMCA Camp Chandler in Wetumpka. Activities include canoeing, sailing, skiing, riflery, archery, arts and crafts, horseback riding and a high ropes course. Website: campbriarwood.org Email: quest@briarwood.org Telephone: (205) 776-5237

Camp Fletcher Campers will take part in traditional day camps in a woodland setting, including a safe and structured environment in McCalla. Quality programs for all ages and interests are led by a trained, carefully chosen staff. Fletcher maintains small groups and high staff ratios, affordable sessions and is ACA accredited. Ages: Grades, 1-12 children and youth Dates: June 1-August 13 Website: campfire-al.org Email: campfletcher@campfire-al.org Telephone: (205) 584-6033 Address: 5150 Fletcher Rd., Bessemer Camp Mac (Residential) A traditional summer camp for boys and girls nestled in the Talladega National Forest, Camp Mac offers a setting where kids can learn, accomplish goals and have fun along the way. Ages: Grades 1-8, completed Dates: June 1-August 1 Website: campmac.com Email: office@campmac.com Telephone: (256) 362-7449 Address: 2671 Cheaha Rd., Munford 36268 Camp Merri-Mac (Residential) A girls’ Christian summer camp located high in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Camp Merri-Mac provides a summer of growth through friendship and adventure. Ages: Grades 1-11 Dates: June 7-August 12 Website: merri-mac.com Email: mail@merri-mac.com Telephone: (828) 669-8766 Address: 1123 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Camp Nakanawa (Residential) This private summer camp for girls is located on the Cumberland Plateau in Crossville, Tennessee. It offers a wide variety of activities designed to develop skills, make lasting friendships and gain confidence.

Entering 5K – 5th Grades All camps start May 31st. and each lasts 1 week. 9 a.m. – N00N

Complete summer camp descriptions, details and fees are available at

aldridgegardens.com. All teachers are Alabama Educators.

< SCAN ME TO REGISTER! (423) 757-2515 baylorschool.org/campwalkabout

CAMP GUIDE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Altamont School

22 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

Ages: 8-16 Dates: June 13-July 25 (two- and four-week sessions) Website: campnakanawa.com Email: campnak@campnakanawa.com Telephone: (931) 277-3711 Address: 1084 Camp Nakanawa Rd., Crossville, TN Camp Sumatanga (Residential) Campers enjoy age-level activities that include swimming, hiking, creek studies, canoeing and archery. They can participate in spiritual formation through creative worship, intentional fellowship and small group discussion. Sumatanga offers day, 5-night elementary, mid-high and senior-high camp experiences. Ages: Grades 1-12, rising Dates: June 6-July 30 Website: sumatanga.org Telephone: (256) 538-9860 Address: 3616 Sumatanga Rd., Gallant Camp Timberlake (Residential) A boys’ Christian summer camp located in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Timberlake

HAPPY CAMPERS

WE'VE BEEN CREATING FUN AND UNIQUE CAMP CARE PACKAGES FOR OVER 50 YEARS!

Summer Sewing Camps for kids ages 9 and up 3118 Heights Village Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

2830 18th Street South • Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3986 • Mon.-Sat. 9:30 - 5:30

www.thesmockingbird.com

(205)848-2249

provides for a summer of growth through friends and adventure. Ages: Grades 1-11 Dates: June 7-August 12 Website: camptimberlake.com Email: email@camptimberlake.com Telephone: (828) 669-8766 Address: 1123 Montreat Rd., Black Mountain, NC 28711 Camp Walkabout (Residential) Held in the backyard of Baylor School, this overnight camp experience offers opportunities for growth through fun activities. From hiking and paddling to caving and climbing, Camp Walkabout brings a new adventure every day. Ages: Ages 8-16 Dates: June 6-23, July 6-17 Website: baylorschool.org/summer/campwalkabout Email: badams@baylorschool.org Telephone: (423) 757-2515 Address: 171 Baylor School Rd., Chattanooga, TN Camp Winnataska (Residential) As its second century begins, Winnataska beckons a new generation of campers to come take part in its unique traditions, grow in their faith, cultivate friendships and experience new high-adventure programming. Ages: 6-15, finished grades K-9 Dates: June 2-July 24 Website: winnataska.org Email: info@winnataska.org Telephone: (205) 640-6741 Address: 336 Winnataska Dr., Pell City Camp Woodmont (Residential) Located in NW Georgia on Lookout Mountain (about a 2-hour drive from Birmingham), Camp Woodmont features horseback riding, highropes/climbing, sports, dance, crafts, canoeing, archery, disc golf and more! ACA accredited with a close family atmosphere and college-age counselors. Ages: 6-14 (boys and girls) Dates: May 30-July 30 Website: campwoodmont.com

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 23

CAMP GUIDE

Camp Winnataska

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Email: alyson@campwoodmont.com Telephone: (423) 472-6070 Address: 381 Moonlight Dr., Cloudland, GA

VARIETY/SPECIALTY Camp Straight Street (Day) Centered at the wooded campus of Shades Mountain Community Church in Bluff Park, Camp Straight Street is eight weeks of fun for campers offering all day, early and late programs. Ages: 3-14 Dates: June 7-July 30 Website: campstraightstreet.com Email: administrator@campstraightstreet.com Telephone: (205) 978-9308 Address: 2281 Old Tyler Rd., Birmingham 35226 Kidcam Camp @ Oak Mountain Kidcam offers 10 weeks of summer fun with all the best activities offered at Oak Mountain State Park. Full summer and weekly camp session are available online now for registration. Capacity is limited for 2021 due to ever-changing Covid-19 guidelines, so register early. Ages: Kindergarten to age 13

Dates: June 1-August 6 Website: kidcamcamp.com Email: summersrock@kidcamcamps.com Telephone: (877) 454-3226 Address: 200 Terrace Dr., Pelham YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP Hosted as each YMCA location, these day camp programs offer an opportunity for campters to learn more about themselves while developing new skills, healthy hapbits, building relationships and reaching goals. Summer day camps seek to help kids gain self-confidence, build character, and focus on the whole child in spirit, mind and body. Ages: 5-18 Website: ymcabham.org Address: 2101 4th Ave. N., Birmingham Telephone: (205) 801-YMCA Alabaster YMCA – (205) 663-7240 Greystone YMCA – (205) 981-0144 Hoover YMCA – (205) 682-1399 Northeast Youth Center YMCA – (205) 833-7616 Pelham Family YMCA – (205) 664-9622 Shades Valley Family YMCA – (205) 870-9622 Trussville Family YMCA – (205) 655-2224 YMCA Youth Center – (205) 324-1643

Camps: Ages 5 and up Dates: Spring break March 3-5 Summer #1 June 14-18 Summer #2 July 19-23 Summer#3 August 2-4

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4141 Co Rd 93, Helena, AL 35080

Campers will learn basic horse care and safety. They will have a riding lesson every day. We will play horse games, make new friends. Care, groom, and tack horses. We promise they will be dirty and tired when you pick them up.

For more information call 205-441-9490 or visit rockingsfarmriding.com

Summer at Altamont 2021 Day Camps | Credit Courses Grades 3-12 | June & July Registration & Information:

summerataltamont.org Photo taken prior to COVID-19

24 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Vestavia Hills Teachers of the Year Share Their View of Education During a Pandemic step toward helping them be successful and then I strive to provide what they need emotionally, socially and academically.

What have been some of the most notable hurdles this school year?

Photos courtesy Vestavia Hills City Schools

he 2020-21 school year has been colored completely by the pandemic, with educators working on the frontline and adapting their methods to continue to educate children. In the Over the Mountain area alone, teachers, school staff and administrators sprang into action, adapting to virtual learning and navigating safe ways to reintroduce children into classrooms. Many have extended that service beyond school walls through community service efforts, organizing ways for children to receive school meals during lockdowns, hosting drives to collect items for local food banks and taking other actions. Each year, school systems throughout the community and across the nation recognize Teachers of the Year. Candidates are nominated by their fellow teachers. We will be sharing words and thoughts from Over the Mountain Teachers of the Year this month to shine a light on not just those recognized but all educators, in our last issue we heard from Homewood and Hoover teachers. This week we talk with Vestavia Hills city schools Teachers of the Year.

Elementary Teacher of the Year: Heather Hurt, Vestavia Hills Elementary East

Describe your teaching philosophy.

I feel strongly that my role as a teacher is to guide my students to be the best they can be by creating an environment that is welcoming, inclusive and loving. I get to know my students and make sure each student is seen, heard and knows they matter. I know that understanding their strengths and weaknesses is the first

Hoover Schools Plant Arbor Day Trees, City to Host Celebration March 6 ing four previous Arbor Day nuttall oaks along an island at the school. “It’s an opportunity for our children to understand the importance of trees,” Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato said in a release. “And over the past few years as I’ve attended these, you hear all the great things that trees do and how they contribute to our actual living.” The Beautification Board provides

Photos courtesy Hoover City Schools

As the city of Hoover looks forward to Arbor Day celebrations on March 6, Hoover City Schools kicked off its annual ceremonies by planting trees with the city and Hoover Beautification Board. The first tree planting was Feb. 18 at Trace Crossings Elementary, where students helped plant a crepe myrtle. Greystone Elementary School planted a nuttall oak on its campus Feb. 19, join-

Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato helped students plant trees provided by the Hoover Beautification Board.

One of the most notable hurdles for this school year is how to keep an engaging classroom while students keep their distance from each other and don’t share supplies. Another hurdle is how to have students collaborate with each other in these circumstances. Hearing every child’s answer while they ‘turn and talk’ is extremely important to me and is one way I check for understanding in my lessons. Determining a way to still have these conversations between students was a hurdle worth jumping this year. A final hurdle faced this year is how to continue teaching my quarantined students while they are at home. I decided early in the school year to use Google Meets to include absent students in our lessons. This keeps these students learning and on track with the rest of the class. Have you experienced any big victories in 2020-21 despite the

trees for the schools. Fourth grade students participate in the Arbor Day Essay contest with contest winners recognized at the March 6 ceremony, to be held at Aldridge Gardens. They will receive prizes for their work, such as a one-year membership to the gardens, cash and tree ID books. Trace Crossings essay winners were Hampton Sign, Ava Collins and Charlotte Toomy. Greystone winners were Caroline Gilliland, Emily Walker, Dylan Propper and Ellis Byrne. This year, eight schools have planned to hold celebrations on their campuses, according to city officials, which will include a brief history of the national holiday, information on the tree that’s to be planted at the school and the benefits of trees in general. After students help plant their school’s tree, Hoover Urban Forester Colin Conner will lead the kids in taking the Arbor Day Pledge. “I pledge my attention to this tree – its roots, its leaves and its branches. I promise I’ll take care of it on days when Mother Nature passes. I’ll water it and feed it as time goes by and watch it grow and be. A wonder of nature I can one day call my very own Arbor Day tree.” This year’s communitywide Arbor Day Celebration will be March 6 from 9 a.m. to noon. at Aldridge Gardens. The program will include free tree giveaways, crafts for kids, educational tables, recognition of the World’s Largest Oak leaf and the planting of a new community orchard.

pandemic?

I think the biggest victory for this school year is to have provided as normal a school year for my students as possible while in the midst of a pandemic. With the leadership of my district and collaboration with my team, I have been able to safely teach and even provide engaging lessons as close to normal as we can make it. Are there any lessons you have learned this year that you will carry with you into a post-pandemic school year?

One lesson that has been made even clearer this year is it is imperative for me to be focused on the needs of the students and meeting them. There are a lot of uncertainties in the world for my students, but I can create an environment in my classroom that is constant and steady.

Secondary Teacher of the Year: Jerell Horton, Vestavia Hills High School

Describe your teaching philosophy.

I believe that the study of music offers the opportunity for students to

learn very important life skills.

What have been some of the most notable hurdles this school year?

I asked the students during the fall of the year, ‘Can you continue to do your job to the best of your abilities, even when the conditions aren’t favorable?’ The answer to this question is a good indication of the maturity necessary to become productive citizens. Life is not always easy or fair. The hurdle for every teacher and student has been to look past what we all have lost and extract the lessons we should gain! Have you experienced any big victories in 2020-21 despite the pandemic?

The big victory for me this year is that I feel even more connected with my students than I ever have. Are there any lessons you have learned this year that you will carry with you into a post-pandemic school year?

As long as there are students, there will always be a need for teachers. Connection is oftentimes more important than content. Music can heal. Every situation can be an opportunity for learning.

Photos by Whit McGhee/Vestavia Hills City Schools

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

Mountain Brook Elementary Extended day program director Kaye Merritt gets COVID-19 shot at Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights. Below, VHHS senior Grace Elliss, a health science student, assisted at the event.

Vestavia Partners with Medical Organizations to Host COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Vestavia Hills City Schools provided the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to hundreds of its faculty and staff Friday. A temporary clinic was set up at Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights through a partnership with Coosa Valley Medical Center and Alabama Immunization Partners. A number of students of the VHHS health science program were able to assist at the clinic by providing refreshments to patients getting the

vaccine. In addition to Vestavia faculty, vaccines were offered to a number of employees of Mountain Brook City Schools. Second doses will be administered in March.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Be Kind

Hoover Schools, Businesses and Government Organize Annual Be Kind Week Throughout Hoover, a spotlight is being placed on kindness to recognize the week of Feb. 22-29 as “Be Kind Week.” The festivities have been a Hoover tradition since 2018. The campaign and events are being co-sponsored by the Hoover City Schools along with the city of Hoover, the Hoover Public Library, the Hoover Chamber of Commerce, the local food insecurity nonprofit Hoover Helps, the Hoover City Schools Foundation and Neighborhood Bridges, a national organization focused on spreading acts of kindness that is locally man-

aged by school counselors. According to a release, the week is dedicated to inspiring others to take a stand against bullying and ensuring a kind culture. A proclamation announcing Be Kind Week was read Feb. 15, and as the week approached, Celebrate Kindness Banners have been hung at all of the city’s major intersections. In addition, city hall has been lit pink each night. On Feb. 24, community members were encouraged to don pink shirts for Pink Shirt Day to help promote Be Kind Week’s mission.

The first Pink Shirt Day was held in 2007, organized by David Shepherd and Travis Price of Berwick, Nova Scotia. That first year, the founders bought and distributed 50 pink shirts for classmates to wear to honor a male ninth grade student who was bullied on his first day of school for wearing a pink shirt. Throughout the week, a schoolled book drive is collecting elementary-school-level reading materials for local children. Books can be dropped off at the Hoover Board of Education and any of the Hoover City Schools. Students also created affirmation cards that are spread throughout the community, with help from local businesses. —Emily Williams-Robertshaw

Shades Cahaba Second Graders Surprise Children’s of Alabama Patient

Hoover Schools Finley Committee Names 2021 Teachers in the Trenches Each year, Hoover City Schools’ Robert O. Finley Awards Committee recognizes three teachers with its Teacher in the Trenches Award. Russell Sirmans The award honors teachers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, something Hoover officials say all teachers in the school system have done during the Kristin Snowden past 11 months. While the school system recognizes all teachers for their actions amid the pandemic,

Mending kids’

HEARTS It’s what we do best.

Our team of more than 325 healthcare professionals is recognized for its excellence in providing world-class cardiac care in an environment best suited to the needs of our patients. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Evelyn Kluka and every child like our own.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

On Feb. 17, members of Shades Cahaba Elementary School teacher Victoria Snow’s second grade class partnered with Magic Moments for a reveal. Makenzie Prowell, a cancer patient from the Tuscaloosa area, was surprised with a trip to Disney World and told she was leaving for her trip this weekend. According to Magic Moments officials, Snow’s class raised funds to sponsor the reveal and send Prowell and her family to Disney World for a week in the midst of her cancer treatment by hosting a pumpkin patch in the fall.

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 25

SCHOOLS

About our Center l

Shades Cahaba Elementary School teacher Victoria Snow with Makenzie Prowell a cancer patient from the Tuscaloosa arera. three educators representing each level of school have been recognized. 2021 Teachers in the Trenches are Russell Sirmans of Bluff Park Jennifer Johnson Elementary School, Kristin Snowden of Simmons Middle School and Jennifer Johnson of Spain Park High School.

Vestavia Hills City Schools Accepting Hall of Fame Nominations For the second year, the Vestavia Hills City Schools system will honor retired faculty and staff members by holding its Hall of Fame awards ceremony. Nominations for 2021 inductees are open now. The first Hall of Fame class was inducted Oct. 5, 2020. Nominations for the 2021 class are being accepted through March 1 via

a form online at vestavia.k12.al.us. Submissions will be reviewed by the VHCS Hall of Fame Committee and the date of the 2021 ceremony will be announced later.

OLS Celebrates Catholic Schools Week Our Lady of Sorrows recently celebrated Catholic Schools Week with creative and fun service-oriented activities to honor everyone who contributes to the school’s success. Students paid tribute not only to families, faculty and staff but also to volunteers, community supporters and local leaders. They also took part in a weeklong service project, with the school collecting items for the Fultondale tornado victims who lost their homes last month. This year’s theme, “Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.”, was designed to teach students to be good citizens of the world and good neighbors, as well as being good students and Catholics.

26 board-certified cardiologists, intensivists, anesthesiologists and surgeons 435 cardiac surgeries performed in 2020, including 4 heart transplants More than 675 cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology procedures performed in 2020

For Children’s Financial Assistance information, call 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

900 and Counting

26 • Thursday, February 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

By Rubin E. Grant Finally! Spain Park softball coach C.J. Urse Hawkins finally got to celebrate her milestone 900th career victory. The triumphant moment came Friday when senior pitcher Annabelle Widra tossed a shutout in the Jaguars’ 5-0 victory over Oxford in the Leeds Greenwave Classic. Hawkins, in her 25th season coaching, took the milestone victory in stride. “It just means I have worked with a lot of good people, coached a lot of great players, elite players, and had two good schools to coach at,” Hawkins said. “I am blessed and honored.” Hawkins spent the first 11 years of her coaching career at Clay-Chalkville and is in her 14th season at Spain Park. She entered this week with a career record of 903-370, but she’s most proud of the number of former Spain Park players she has currently playing in college, including Mark Katherine Tedder at Texas, Jenna Olszewski at UAB, Destini England at Campbell University, Caroline Kendrick at Hofstra and Caroline Wooley at Gulf Coast Community College. She had two other former players who recently graduated, Kynadi Tipler from Campbell and MK Bonamy from Clemson, where she played a season while earning a master’s after playing as an undergrad at Notre Dame.

Hawkins was poised to reach the milestone victory in 2020. The Jags had a perfect 21-0 record and were ranked No. 4 in the nation when the season was cut short in March because of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving Hawkins two wins shy of 900 and perhaps keeping her from winning her first state championship. “It was frustrating,” Hawkins said. “We had remarkable team chemistry, great upperclassmen leadership and we were all focused on the same goal. When the season stopped the way it did, it was heart-wrenching. It was like a movie without an ending or a terrible ending. “But it wasn’t isolated to us. Just because we were undefeated it didn’t mean the other teams didn’t have the ability to win the state championship. We were no different from anyone else.”

COVID Battles

During the summer, Hawkins had her own battle with COVID when she and her daughter Emma, a freshman on this year’s team, were infected during a travel ball tournament in Nashville. Both received anti-bodies and recovered, but Hawkins said she still doesn’t have a sense of taste or smell. Not only that, but when the softball season officially began on Feb. 11, the Jags found themselves still dealing with COVID. They were without one of their top players, senior center fielder-middle infielder Lydia Coleman, during the Leeds tournament.

Coleman, a Penn State signee, was in quarantine after being in contact with someone who had tested positive for COVID. She is expected to rejoin the team next week. The Jags are expected to contend for the Class 7A state title this season, especially with the versatile Widra, a Michigan signee and one of the top players in the nation, and Coleman back for their senior seasons. But Hawkins figures it will be a challenge because she has a completely different team. “We’ve got a young team,” she said. “We’ve got a good senior class, but we’ve got a lot of young players who we are expecting to make an impact, but some are starting on the varsity for first time.” Spain Park opened the season with a 15-0 loss Feb. 12 at Bob Jones in a game that had to be postponed for a day because of weather. The conditions weren’t favorable when they played. “We should not have played, but it was something both teams had to deal with,” Hawkins said. “They were ready. They have a very good (team), a team that could win state.” Snow and rain have played havoc with Spain Park’s early season schedule, plus Hawkins said the Jags are dealing with a changing school schedule that’s been virtual, blended and last week returned to a full five days of in-class learning. “That’s been one of the biggest challenges,” she said. Yet, somehow the Jags had managed to play

Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry

Spain Park Softball Coach Urse Hawkins Reaches Milestone for Victories

Spain Park softball coach C.J. Urse Hawkins entered this week with 903 career wins.

seven games, posting a 5-2 record. Spain Park bounced back from the loss to Bob Jones to beat Pike Road 15-0 last Thursday, then won four games in the Leeds tournament Friday and Saturday before falling 2-0 to Helena in the championship game. The Jags will compete in ultracompetitive Class 7A, Area 6, which also includes Vestavia Hills, Oak Mountain and Hewitt-Trussville. Hawkins said her team will have to battle any time it steps on the field. “Because of what we did last year, it’s put a target on our backs,” she said. “Every team we play is fighting us tough.”

PLAYOFFS

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

The Eagles have won eight of their last nine games, including a 64-53 victory at James Clemens last Friday in the Northwest semifinals. Senior forward Noah Young led Oak Mountain with 18 points. Will Shaver, a 6-foot-11 junior center added 14, junior guard Brady Dunn, 13, and junior guard Evan Smith, 10. Young and Smith are two of the football guys Love mentioned. They were key contributors on last year’s Final Four team. “Those two guys have started for us for three years,” Love said. “They’re a big part of what we do.” The 6-5 Young is the team’s secondleading scorer, averaging 12.4 points. Smith averages 7.4. Shaver leads the team in scoring at 14.2 points. Dunn averages 8.1 and junior guard Wilder Evans averages 8.3. “We just really kind of spread it around,” Love said. Love expects a challenging game in the regional final whether its Hoover or Florence. The Eagles split two regular season games against Hoover, but they lost to the Bucs 54-43 in the Class 7A, Area 5 championship game on Feb. 13. “Either one will be hard to beat,” Love said. “When we were swapping film with James Clemens, I got to see Florence and they’re really good.” Oak Mountain is one of several Over the Mountain schools competing this week with a berth in next week’s

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

From page 28

Mountain Brook beat Jackson-Olin 88-45 in sub-regional play last week. The Spartans’ Rayven Turner drives past a Mustang defender.

state tournament, March 1-3, on the line.

Mountain Brook Boys

The Mountain Brook boys (27-6) were scheduled to play Huffman (224) at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday in the Class 6A Northeast Regional final at Jacksonville State University. The Spartans, the 2020 Class 7A runners-up, earned their spot in the regional final with a 58-48 victory over Oxford (30-3) in the semifinals

last Friday, extending their winning streak to 16 games. Mountain Brook trailed 42-40 entering the final quarter but opened the period on an 11-0 run while outscoring the Yellow Jackets 18-6 to end Oxford’s 26-game winning streak and season. “It’s been a strange year with COVID and everything,” Mountain Brook coach Tyler Davis said. “They (players) have grinded all year. I think the one thing we learned is Mountain Brook isn’t going anywhere.”

Vestavia’s Anna Towry drives past a Hewitt defender in the Rebels’ Area 6 championship win over the Huskies.

Spain Park Boys

The Spain Park boys (26-7) will play Huntsville (23-6) in Class 7A Northeast Regional final at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at Jacksonville State. The Jaguars advanced with a 55-45 victory over Sparkman last Friday, while Huntsville routed Vestavia Hills 58-34.

Vestavia Hills Girls

The Vestavia Hills girls (30-3) will play Area 6 rival Hewitt-Trussville (27-4) in the Class 7A Northeast

Regional final at 9 a.m. Wednesday at Jacksonville State. The Rebels advanced with a 66-42 semifinal victory over Huntsville. They are 3-0 against Hewitt this season.

Hoover Girls

The Hoover girls (29-1) will play Austin (18-10) in the Class 7A Northwest Regional final at 9 a.m. Thursday in Hanceville. The Lady Bucs advanced with a 79-35 semifinal victory over James Clemens.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, February 25, 2021 • 27

SCHOOLS

VESTAVIA very much a team effort with all 14 guys contributing. Every kid did what we asked them to do.” Flurry said it was simply a matter of dedication and hard work. “It was amazing to win it,” Flurry said. “After we lost in the Duals, everybody came back to practice working hard and getting after it like we never had before.” Junior John Edwards (20-3) at 170 pounds, senior Bryce Littleton (25-1) at 220 pounds and senior Dawson Ray (17-2) at 285 pounds joined Flurry as individual champions for the Rebels. Edwards, the younger brother of James Edwards, posted a 12-8 victory over Florence’s Joseph Grijalva (254) to win his second state title. He won the 160-pound crown in 2020. “It’s awesome to win again,” Edwards said. “My brother James was a two-time champion and now I have a chance to become a three-time champion and beat his record. That’s the plan.” Littleton beat Kyle Watson (33-1) of Smiths Station with a 2-1 decision and Ray won a 3-2 tiebreaker against Drew Lawson (36-2) of Bob Jones. The match judged the best by the coaches was the 160-pound final between Thompson’s Will Miller (340) and Vestavia Hills’ Jack Lamey (25-4). Miller won the match with a 6-5 decision to earn his second championship. He won in the 152-pound weight class in 2020. Lamey won the 145-pound title last year. Two other Vestavia Hills wrestlers also suffered losses in championship matches, Carson Farris (16-4) to Thompson’s Yanni Vines (31-3) at 126 pounds and Christopher Hays (18-3) to Smiths Station’s Devin Stone (34-1) at 132

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

From page 28

Senior Bryce Littleton (25-1) at 220 pounds (above), Junior John Edwards (20-3) at 170 pounds (right), and senior Dawson Ray (17-2) at 285 pounds (below) joined teammate Zach Flurry as individual champions for the Rebels.

Bouncing Back

Hoover senior Nick Smith came back from two offseason knee surgeries to win his second straight 120pound title. Smith (10-1), wearing a sleeve on his right leg, earned an 11-7 victory over Thompson’s Nick Dempsey (39-4) in the final. Grissom’s Warren Hoyt (20-1) was named the 7A MVP by pinning previously unbeaten J.T. Foster (21-1) of Hoover in the 182-pound final. In the 195-pound final, Hewitt’s Hunter Jones (30-0) got a takedown in the final 30 seconds – lifting his opponent off the ground – to earn a 4-3 victory over Hoover’s Dawson Rye (20-6) and complete an undefeated season. In the 106-pound final, Oak Mountain sophomore Camden Tipton (32-8) scored an 8-6 decision over Spain Park’s Bradley Williams (34-1), a seventh grader, who fell one match short of a perfect season.

Hoover senior Nick Smith came back from two offseason knee surgeries to win his second straight 120-pound title.

Nothing Doing

The Class 5A-6A Tournament last Thursday-Saturday at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville didn’t produce any Over the Mountain champions.

In the 106-pound final, Oak Mountain sophomore Camden Tipton (32-8) scored an 8-6 decision over Spain Park’s Bradley Williams (34-1), a seventh grader, who fell one match short of a perfect season.

Homewood sophomore Sam Sutton (35-4) lost to Moody junior Cory Land by technical fall in the 126-pound weight class final. Land (44-0), who won his fourth straight state crown and finished undefeated for the third straight season, was leading 21-6 when the match was called at 2:43. Land has won 151 consecutive matches. Mountain Brook senior John McKimmon (35-1) lost by disqualifi-

cation in the 195-pound title match to Gulf Shores’ Drake Ewing (38-3). McKimmon had edged Homewood senior John-Mark Crocker 8-7 in a battle of unbeatens in the semifinals. Crocker (24-1) bounced back to win the consolation final with a 7-6 decision over Arab’s Jonathan Pugh (44-5). Homewood finished sixth in the team standings with 122 points. Gardendale won with 189.5 points.

Spain Park softball coach Urse Hawkins reaches milestone for victories. Page 26

SPORTS

Thursday, February 25, 2021 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Hoover senior Nick Smith came back from two offseason knee surgeries to win his second straight state title. Page 27

Taking Aim

BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS

Oak Mountain Makes Another Run at Final Four Berth

Vestavia Hills won the Class 7A team wrestling championship at the Birmingham CrossPlex’s Bill Harris Arena on Feb. 13, ending rival Thompson’s three-year reign. The title was a state-record 16th overall for the Rebels.

Crowning Achievement Vestavia Hills Claims Record 16th State Wrestling Championship; Flurry Finishes Unbeaten

By Rubin E. Grant Vestavia Hills junior wrestler Zach Flurry was determined that things would be different this time.

In the 2020 state tournament, Flurry was pinned by Thompson’s Blaise Albarado in the Class 7A 106-pound championship match. The loss motivated Flurry throughout this season. He moved up to 113 pounds, and when

he returned to the state tournament Feb. 12-13 at the Birmingham CrossPlex’s Bill Harris Arena, Flurry wouldn’t be denied. He captured the 113pound crown with a 6-4 decision over Thompson’s Thomas Giere in the 66th AHSAA State Wrestling Championships. Flurry finished with a 21-0 record, becoming only the third wrestler in Vestavia Hills history to have an undefeated season. James Edwards, now a football player at Clemson, was 32-0 when he won the 220-pound title in 2017, and Jeff Segars, the Rebels’ athletic director, was an undefeated state champion in 1986 at 185 pounds. “Last year after I lost in the state finals, I made it my goal to win this year,” Flurry said. “Halfway through the season, I thought I had a chance to go undefeated. It doesn’t happen often. When it happened, I couldn’t believe it. It’s nice to be part of a very small group.” Flurry was one of four Rebels to win individual titles as Vestavia Hills won the Class 7A team competition, ending Thompson’s threeyear reign. The title was a state-record 16th overall for the Rebels. Vestavia Hills finished with 277.5 points to earn its first state team title since 2017. Thompson was second with 240.5 points, followed by Hewitt-Trussville (150 points), Spain Park (147.5), Huntsville (144), Hoover (124.5), Smiths Station (95), Grissom (73), Sparkman (73) and Oak Mountain (72).

Until 2020, the Oak Mountain boys basketball team had never been to the Alabama High School Athletic Association State Finals. Now, the Eagles are on the verge of making it two straight trips to the Final Four. Oak Mountain (21-9) will play either Hoover or Florence in the Class 7A Northwest Regional final at 11:30 a.m. Thursday at Wallace State in Hanceville. Hoover (17-8) hosted Florence (11-13) Monday night in the regional semifinals after the game had to be rescheduled from Friday. If Oak Mountain wins the regional championship, it will advance to the state tournament next week at UAB’s Bartow Arena. Eagles coach Chris Love said the team has had to overcome a number of obstacles to get back to this point. “This has been hard with COVID and some other things,” Love said. “We struggled a lot early and had some losses. We had some injuries and we didn’t have some of our football guys. It took us some time to find ourselves, especially not having a summer to work together as a team. “We knew it would take some time for things to come together. We kept moving forward, trying to get better every day. In high school basketball, you want to be playing your best ball now. We’ve been playing well the last eight or nine games.” See PLAYOFFS, page 26

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

Sweet Revenge

Vestavia’s Zach Flurry captured the 113-pound crown with a 6-4 decision over Thompson’s Thomas Giere in the 66th AHSAA State Wrestling Championships. Flurry finished with a 21-0 record, becoming only the third wrestler in Vestavia Hills history to have an undefeated season.

Vestavia Hills bounced back from a loss to Thompson in the final of the Class 7A AHSAA Duals Wrestling Tournament on Jan. 22, making its state title extra special. “It was very sweet to win it,” Vestavia Hills coach Monterrious ‘Tee’ Adams said. “It was

See VESTAVIA, page 27

The Spain Park boys (26-7) will play Huntsville (23-6) in Class 7A Northeast Regional final at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at Jacksonville State. Above, Josh Harrington.

2.25.21

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