3.25.21 by Over the Mountain Journal

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SOCIAL

Danny Wood has been the pastor at Shades Mountain Baptist Church since 1997.

THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

SPORTS SPRING BREAK

Spark Imagination Newly Re-imagined Cook Museum of Natural Science Makes Waves as Travel Destination

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

Stepping Down

Retiring Pastor Danny Wood Believes Someone New Should Lead Shades Mountain Baptist Post-Pandemic SEE STORY, PAGE 10

With spring break holidays happening this month, many vacationers may be opting to remain close to home and wait for the light at the end of the pandemic to draw nearer. Rather than heading to crowded beaches or taking a long driving trip to mountains states away, why MUSEUM not check out some CRAWL exciting places to learn Spending and grow close to Spring Break home. in town? The Cook Museum Check out our of Natural Science, in list of other Decatur, has a storied museums history offering opporclose to home. tunities to spark kids’ PAGE 12 excitement about the natural world. The recently revamped and reopened facility is about a 1½-hour car ride away, past Cullman and on the way to Huntsville. Inside its walls, Cook’s offers nine exhibit halls that create an immersive experience crafted to allow kids to explore, interact with and learn about the natural environment close to home and in the far reaches of the world. Guests will learn through the interactive See COOK, page 12

Inside

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

HIDDEN HISTORY Birmingham filmmaker documents Greek-owned restaurants. PAGE 6

LIBRARY CARD Homewood Library celebrates 80th birthday with card campaign. PAGE 8

2 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

OPINION/CONTENTS

Inside

Murphy’s Law

I DOUBLE TIME Mitchell’s Place looks forward to two major fundraisers in April PAGE 4

NEW PRESIDENT Former Samford University Dean Beck A. Taylor Elected 19th president of the school PAGE 9

STATE OF THE CITY Hoover mayor says city came through pandemic in sound shape, predicts better 2021 PAGE 8

LABOR OF LOVE Longtime McWane volunteer Lynn Hendricks discusses love of museums, science and the ocean PAGE 16

ABOUT TOWN 4 PEOPLE 6 NEWS 8 LIFE 10

SOCIAL 14 SENIORS 16 SCHOOLS 22 SPORTS 24

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 JOURNAL

Oh, The Places I’ll Go

got an email from a friend the But first, I want to visit my family. other day saying, “I just want to I want to run through the sprinkler get on a plane and go somewith my Florida grandchildren. I want where.” I hear ya, buddy. I hear ya. to have a glass of wine on my sister’s For people who love to travel, this patio. I want to go to Disney World. past year has been difficult. I’ve tried (Mickey and Minnie are second cousnot to think about it, mostly, but I desins on the rodent side of my family.) perately, desperately want to be free After all of the safer-at-home to move about the cabin. I want to restrictions, it will be wonderful to have a Coke in a plastic cup that I just go and go and go. There’s one have to chug before we land. I want place I’m not going, however: space. to watch important safety briefings SpaceX has an all-civilian excursion that don’t all start with the words set to launch later this year. I did not Sue Murphy “stand six feet apart.” apply. The very idea of a rocket Technically, I know I could get on launch manned by people who usually a plane right now, but I also know surf the web and order takeout that it’s more prudent to wait until gives “safer at home” a whole new the herd is fully immunized. meaning. Also, for all that the trip After all of the saferBesides, right now my destinations will cost its passengers, there are would be limited. They really don’t at-home restrictions, no verandah suites on that vessel, want an American in Paris. They’re it will be wonderful to no stage shows, no signature frozen not ready with a warm “G’day, that come with little umbreljust go and go and go. drinks mate” in Australia, either. At this las. At least I don’t think so. They point, Americans are not even weldidn’t mention them in the press come in Canada, and Canadians are release. right up there with the people of South Bend, Indiana, While a trip into space might seem like the ultimate as being the nicest people on the planet. travel experience, and the scenery would literally be I understand everybody being skittish. I’m not all out of this world, you’d really just be looking at it that anxious to share my space with people who come through a very small window, smaller than the porthole in from places where the virus protection standards you’d get on a lower-level cruise package. Yes, you have been less stringent (like Texas). Better to be sure would be able to drink the water but that’s because you we’re not spreading germs before we start spreading brought it with you. You even have to bring your own out across the globe. air, and the only way to bring home souvenirs is to put But, as soon as the COVID fog has lifted, buddy, on one of those giant hazmat-ish suits that’s connected stand back. I will be throwing things in a suitcase and to your ship only by a cord controlled by a fellow flying out the door. I’ll be gathering up tour reservaamateur astronaut. Houston, I foresee a problem. tions and airline tickets and meal vouchers with both So, no space travel for me, thank you. Planes, hands. I want to see Yellowstone and Glacier Bay. You trains, and automobiles? Line them up. I’ve been revmight receive posts from Portugal and Prague and ving my engines for over a year now. Ready? Set? those blustery islands off the coast of Scotland. Gooooooo!

Over the Mountain Views

Bring on Bricks and Mortar

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

March 25, 2021 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Emily Williams-Robertshaw, Sam Prickett Photographer: Jordan Wald 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. 16

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.

Lane Parke developer Evson Inc. and Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors celebrated the groundbreaking for the second phase of the Lane Parke development, to commence in April. The second phase will include the addition of approximately 47,000 square feet of retail space and will link to the rest of the development, located in Mountain Brook Village. From left, Will Reis, Sam Gaston, John John Evans, Mary Byer Lell and Erik Schatz.

B U Y L O C A L . B U Y O N ABOUT L I NTOWN E . S A M E L O W P R IThursday, C E March S .25, 2021 • 3

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4 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

by Judy Butler

Double Time

Mitchell’s Place Looks Forward to Two Major Fundraisers in April By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

Spring Has Sprung This is the time of year for new beginnings. This is the time of year for renewal. This is the time of year for fresh starts. This is the time of year that we give away the clothes that are too worn or no longer fit us. This is the time of year that we deep clean our homes, when we finally get the cobwebs out of the corners. You see where I’m going with this… right? All of the above is great and fantastic and so refreshing, but it’s all for naught if we don’t do the same with ourselves. It’s time to throw away behavior, habits or even addictions that prematurely age us; that make us feel dead inside; that will kill us if not addressed. Let me be honest. Asking for help sucks. Trust me. Who wants to feel like a failure? No one, but when your life is spinning out of control and you can’t fix it on your own what is left? Here’s the ironic twist. You, the train wreck, are the last one to admit you need help. Your loved ones already know. They are just too scared to confront you because they know how you will react. Take the initiative. It’s time for a personal fresh start. It’s time to sweep out your mental cobwebs. It’s time to dust off your flat emotions. It’s time to throw away behaviors that are only harming you and those who love you. We can help you make a fresh start at a life you’ll love. Coming to Bayshore Retreat is a gift not a punishment. Call us today.

MAR 25 - APR 8

During the pandemic, organizations such as Mitchell’s Place didn’t get a break. According to Mitchell’s Place cofounder Nancy Meisler, the facility was closed for about a three-week period at the beginning of the pandemic to adapt to health and safety measures. It then picked back up and continued providing its essential programming and services to the autism spectrum community. While Mitchell’s Place continued providing services, it continued generating expenses. One of the many positive things that will happen as the pandemic nears an end is the return of fundraising events that generate much-needed funds to supplement grant money and donations. During April, Mitchell’s Place will host two of its annual fundraising events – the Funky Fish Fry, co-hosted by the junior boards of Mitchell’s Place and the Autism Society of Alabama, and A Night at the Oscars, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year.

Funky Fish Fry

This year marks the 11th year of the fundraiser, to be held April 10 at Avondale Brewing Company. Autism Society of Alabama Junior Board President Olivia Gaston has worked with individuals with autism spectrum disorder for a decade through her career as a behavior analyst at Hoover City Schools. In her three years serving on the board, she has seen firsthand the impact ASA services have on students and families. “I feel completely honored and blessed to be a part of the autism community, and I am full invested in making these individuals’ worlds as joyful as they make mine,” Gaston said. When Mitchell’s Place Junior Board President Doug Corey first moved back to his hometown of Birmingham, he was looking for a way to give back to the community. A couple of his friends who were involved with the organization brought him on board. “The thing that keeps me so involved is seeing how the incredible staff at Mitchell’s Place has been able to help more than 2,000 families over the last 16 years,” Corey said. With likeminded missions to provide support services to the autism community, it was only natural that ASA and Mitchell’s Place find ways to join forces for fundraising. “Combining forces and sourcing

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.

Thurs., March 25

Photo courtesy Mitchell’s Place

Rehab Reality...

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

“Gather”

Mitchell’s Place co-founders Nancy and Allen Meisler with son, Mitchell, and daughter and son-in law Anna and Gaines Zarzour at A Night at the Oscars.

ideas between both organizations allows us a better chance to come up with strategies that will allow the Funky Fish Fry to be a great success each and every year and hopefully double the funds to benefit both (organizations),” Corey said. Gaston and Corey said COVID safety is at the forefront of their minds. The event will follow not only official safety recommendations, but also the regulations put in place by Avondale Brewing Company. That being said, there will be plenty of family-friendly fun to be

‘I, for one, have not seen a live concert in over a year, and I am getting excited just thinking about seeing an actual band play.’ had. Catfish will be served by Ezell’s Catfish, and tickets include one beer for adults over the age of 21. Gaston said she could not be more excited about the lineup of live musical performances, featuring The Drennen Brothers, Automatic Slim Blues Band and Livewire. “I, for one, have not seen a live concert in over a year, and I am getting excited just thinking about seeing an actual band play,” Gaston said. Those who do not wish to attend the in-person event still can get their catfish fix, as there will be curbside pickup. For more information and updates, visit funkyfishfry.com.

A Night at the Oscars

Mitchell’s Place will host its 15th annual A Night at the Oscars fundraiser April 24. Having a night to gather and see firsthand the support for Mitchell’s Place is near and dear to the hearts of co-founders Nancy and Allen Meisler. “It’s great to see the community’s outpouring of support,” she said. “We believe it gives us a really good stage to show what we do and the difference that we make in these children’s lives.” The first gala was hosted in 2006,

conceptualized by the Meislers. “It became apparent that we needed to raise more funds outside of what we were receiving through grants and general donations,” Meisler said. The planning process for the first Night at the Oscars was a whirlwind. Meisler noted that they officially decided on the concept for the event in December and had the entire event planned by February. About 300 people arrived at the event on the night of the Academy Awards dressed in black tie attire and watched the televised show at the Alabama Theatre. “My husband had the idea that we would bring in an Oscar winner,” she said. “Most Oscar winners who are still living attend the awards.” While Meisler had doubts that it could be done, on the date of the event, Shirley Jones was in attendance. Jones won the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for her role in the 1960 film “Elmer Gantry,” but she may be best known as Shirley Partridge, the widowed mother of five children in the musical comedy series “The Partridge Family.” Over the years, the event has grown into one of the premiere galas in the area. Meisler notes that fundraising efforts quickly grew from an approximate $25,000 to $125,000 from year one to two. The fundraiser was held at Birmingham Country Club for many years before it graduated to a larger space at The Club. Last year’s event was hosted at the Theodore the night before the Academy Awards and guests were sent home with swag bags. “The theme of last year’s bags was an Academy Awards-viewing kit,” Meisler said. “So, we had popcorn, socks and other cute things to watch the Oscars with.” The 2021 event will return to the Theodore, beginning at 6 p.m. It also will be scaled back to adhere to health and safety mandates. For those who wish to celebrate at home, festivities will include virtual auctions, party-at-home packages, tickets for meals from Hasting’s Catering and a livestream of the program and live auction. For more information, visit mitchells-place.com.

The Birmingham Museum of Art will host a virtual film screening for the movie “Gather,” which follows the stories of Native Americans on the frontline of a growing movement to reconnect with spiritual and cultural identities that were devastated by genocide. When: 6-7 p.m. Website: artsbma.org

March 26 - April 2 Hidden Eggs of Birmingham Scavenger Hunt

Second Shift, a non-profit supporting at-risk youth and children aging out of foster care, will host an Easter egg hunt fundraiser throughout the Greater Birmingham area, offering both a virtual format and in person hunting. Website: secondshiftalabama.org

Sat., March 27 Rumpshaker 5K

The 13th annual run will be held both in-person and virtually while raising awareness and funds to provide patient support for those affected by colorectal cancer. When: 8 a.m. noon Where: Downtown Homewood Website: rumpshaker5k.com

Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny Smith’s Variety in Crestline Village will be hosting a photo op for pets with the Easter Bunny, with all proceeds benefitting the Animal League of Birmingham. When: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Smith’s Variety Website: mtnbrookchamber.org

Hop ’n Shop

The businesses of 18th Street in Homewood will host an Easterthemed shopping event where visitors can hunt for coupons, candy and more. There will also be a visit from the Easter Bunny. When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Downtown Homewood Website: business. homewoodchamber.org

Sun., March 28 Pour Us Another: Celebrating Women and Craft Beer

This free event will feature a collaboration with Ashley Monroe of Brewed Black Girl, featuring women-owned food trucks, vendors, live music and more. When: noon - 6 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Company Website: “Cahaba Brewing Company” Facebook Page

VHUMC Easter Egg Hunt

Vestavia Hills United Methodist

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Church will host an Easter Egg Hunt on the sanctuary lawn. Participants are invited to bring a basket and there will also be pictures with the Easter Bunny. Everyone 4 years and older must wear a mask. When: 4 p.m. Where: VHUMC Website: vhumc.org

Thurs., April 1 The Spring Edit at Lane Parke

Lane Parke will close of Rele Street to host an event featuring live music, pop-ups including Doodles and more. When: 5-7:30 p.m. Where: Lane Parke in Mountain Brook Website: “The Spring Edit” Facebook Page

April 2-4 Mountain Brook Contactless Easter Egg Hunt

This year’s Easter egg hunt can be done while walking or driving through Mountain Brook’s villages. Those who spot the golden egg must email molly@mtnbrookchamber.org for the chance to win a golden prize. Where: city of Mountain Brook Website: mtnbrookchamber.org

Sat., April 3 Document Destruction and Electronic Recycling Day

The City of Mountain Brook and Gone for Good will host a recycling day to promote sustainable practices.

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 5

ABOUT TOWN The event will feature secure paper document destruction and electronic waste removal. When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Mountain Brook High School Website: mtnbrook.org

HAPPY EASTER! Sun., April 4

Easter Eggspress

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum will offer 75-minute train rides on the Easter Eggspress, complete with sweet Easter treats from Peter Cottontail. When: 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Where: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Website: hodrrm.org

SAVE THE DATE Sat., April 10 Cornhole Classic

The Bell Center will host its ninth annual event, including a maximum of 60 teams in order to allow social distancing. Festivities will include live music and a food truck. When: 1 p.m. Where: The Bell Center Website: thebellcenter.org

April 15-25 “Plaza Suite”

Virginia Samford Theatre will present this three-act comedy by Neil Simon, set in Suite 719 of New York City’s

Plaza Hotel. Each act will be played by the same two actors, husband and wife team Nick and Kelsey Crawford, playing different characters. When: Thurs.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. Where: Virginia-Samford Theatre Website: virginiasamfordtheatre.org

No Bunny does Easter Bunny better than Snoozy's Kids!

April 17 Hand in Paw Mutt Strut

The 11th annual dog-friendly 5K and 1 mile fun run will take place virtually at any location of your choosing. Several dog-friendly race routes will be provided. Registration is required. When: all day Website: handinpaw. org

Household Hazardous Waste Day

Held each spring, the city will be collecting hazardous waste items from Hoover residents only, including items such as household chemicals, medicine, automobile fluids, batteries, paints, etc. When: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Hoover Public Safety Building Website: hooveral.org

Check out our Easter video on social media ... See how chocolate always wins!

April 18 Cornapalooza

The Homewood Athletic Foundation will host its sixth annual corn hole tournament to raise funds for student athletes in Homewood. When: 12:30 p.m. Where: Pizzeria GM Website: “Homewood Athletic Foundation” Facebook Page

Tween to Trend Accessories In Snoozy's Kids CRESTLINE VILLAGE 871.2662

6 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

PEOPLE

Highlighting Birmingham’s Hidden History Local Filmmaker Documents Greek-Owned Restaurants

By Shannon Thomason A short film about Birmingham’s tradition of Greek-owned restaurants premiered recently during the Southern Foodways Alliance’s 2021 Spring Symposium. The documentary “Philoxenia,” by Birmingham-based filmmaker and University of Alabama at Birmingham alumna Jessica Chriesman, of Homewood, featured Ted’s Restaurant, Demetri’s BBQ, Johnny’s Restaurant, The Bright Star, The Fish Market and Gus’s Hot Dogs. Philoxenia is the Greek notion of “friend of the stranger,” and the film connects that idea with Southern hospitality as practiced at the Greek eateries. “I am so excited to highlight Birmingham’s hidden history of Greek restaurateurs in this film,” Chriesman said in a statement. “Birmingham’s Greek immigrants have shaped the hospitality industry in our city, and I am proud to share this legacy through the Southern Foodways Alliance’s platform.” Other films shown during the symposium were “The SugarBeat Project,” by Roni Henderson Day; “A

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Bit of This, A Bit of That,” by Vonnie Smith; and “Drowned Land,” by Colleen Thurston. Multidisciplinary artist Jon-Sesrie

‘Birmingham’s Greek immigrants have shaped the hospitality industry in our city, and I am proud to share this legacy through the Southern Foodways Alliance’s platform.’ Goff was the symposium’s guest curator. The symposium usually takes place in Birmingham but was held in a virtual venue March 13 and 14 this year. Timothy Hontzas, chef and owner of Johnny’s Restaurant, said he was honored to be in the film. “This piece is especially important to me, as it correlates Southern and Greek cultures,” Hontzas said in the statement. “The two parrot one anoth-

er on many fronts, but especially as it is titled ‘friends to strangers.’ It shows how food and family are intricately woven together. Everyone has a place at the table, in my restaurant and in my home — always.” Sam Nakos, owner of Demetri’s BBQ, said that, as a son of a Greek family in Birmingham, he was happy to pay tribute to the Greek culture that shaped his life. “Memories of my family and the Greek experience meant so much to me,” Nakos said. “As I was being interviewed, I was proud to mention other Greek restaurateurs who have overcome the difficulty of persevering in their family business.” Lee Pantazis, who now owns Gus’s Hot Dogs, said he also felt honored to be included. “We wanted to continue the legacy of the Birmingham hot dog and of Mr. George (Nasiakos) specifically, who was the person responsible for Gus’s from (1995) to 2017,” Pantazis said. “When we took over, our main goal was to continue his legacy and keep serving people the way they deserve to be served, with kindness and respect.” “Given the history and significance

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 7

PEOPLE

April 15-18

OUR 2021 SPRING PLANT SALE IS MOVING ONLINE! Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Get ready to garden by shopping hundreds of plants specially selected for our region and grown by six of our dedicated volunteer growing groups. Members of the Friends will enjoy priority access to shop our new e-commerce website and first choice of pickup time April 23–25 at the Gardens. MEMBER PRIORITY SHOPPING: APRIL 15–16 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: APRIL 17–18

of hot dogs in the city of Birmingham, being a part of that is something special,” Pantazis said. “We are the last one downtown. Letting that tradition die was not an option, and we are really proud to be able to continue it.” Chriesman’s work has been shown in festivals across the country, including at the Green Mountain Film Festival in Montpelier, Vermont; and ARTlightenment Art and Film Festival in Nashville; as well as in Birmingham’s Sidewalk Film Festival

and the George Lindsey UNA Film Festival in Florence. She and a partner were finalists in the Tribeca Film Institute’s 2019 IF/Then Pitch Competition for an idea for a film about A.G. Gaston. She is chairwoman of the Alabama Humanities Alliance Young Professionals Board. Her work can be found online at jessicachriesman.com. Shannon Thomason is a Public Relations Specialist at UAB.

Filmmaker Jessica Chriesman, above right, with Sam Nakos, owner of Demetri’s BBQ in Homewood. Chriesman featured several Greek-owned restaurants in her new documentary “Philoxenia.”

THINK SPRING! Cultivate your inner gardener as well by joining us for an informational Spring Plant Fair on Saturday, April 24! Visit our website to learn more.

bbgardens.org/spring A facility of the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is the result of a public/private partnership between the City of Birmingham and the nonprofit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a mission-driven membership organization that seeks to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens.

Thirteen Distinctive New Homes in Vestavia Hills On the crest of Shades Mountain overlooking Oxmoor Valley, Walnut Hill epitomizes a Wedgworth community: beautiful homes, great views, and energysmart construction. Minutes from I-65 and downtown Birmingham, these thirteen home sites surround a central park. With lots starting at $200,000, Walnut Hill provides a unique opportunity for you to create a custom home in one of Birmingham’s most desirable areas.

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Mike Wedgworth (205) 365-4344

NEWS

8 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

Hoover Mayor Says City Came Through Pandemic in Sound Shape, Predicts Better 2021 Mayor Frank Brocato delivered his annual State of the City address to the Hoover Chamber of Commerce on March 18, recapping the hardships of the previous year and promising a “much better” 2021. COVID-19, he said, “challenged us as we’d never imagined,” but also revealed “the strength of the community, its character and the kindness of our citizens.” He highlighted the city’s quick response to the pandemic, which included establishing an Emergency Operations Center, the Everbridge public alert system and a COVID-focused helpline operated by library staffers. “There were so many things that had to be incorporated and implemented,” he said. “Looking back now, I realize that if we had not done that so early on, we would have had chaos instead of organized and supervised operations.” Brocato praised city workers’ response to the pandemic, saying that the city “could not have made it through the past year without teamwork.” “As I look back on how quickly we responded to the COVID crisis, I’m proud of our team,” he said. “For the nearly 800 city employees, I really don’t have enough words to adequately express how I feel about them … . You never looked for a handshake or a pat on the back. You continued to do

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Sam Prickett

Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato, left, with Hoover Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Toni Herrera-Bast at last week’s chamber luncheon.

your job with professionalism and dedication to serving our residents, our visitors and our community.” He also highlighted the efforts of Hoover residents, including Wren Manners, who organized a meal program for doctors and other community members, and Rebekah Crossman, who sewed and distributed more than 2,000 face masks throughout the city. Brocato pointed to the leadership of Hoover City Schools Superintendent Kathy Murphy, who coordinated with city Chief of Operations Jim White and fitness center staffers on efforts to continue providing meals to approximately 12,000 schoolchildren. He also pointed to one of the more controversial elements of the city’s COVID response — the decision to hold an in-person graduation ceremony for Hoover High School seniors.

“Dr. Murphy said it was the most difficult decision she’d made in her career,” Brocato said. “I also felt our students had already lost so much during the pandemic and worked too hard to get to that point to forgo celebrating that moment. I wanted them to enjoy a real graduation, and we worked handin-hand with Dr. Murphy and the school system to make that happen.” The decision was “not without controversy,” he added. “In fact, the story made national headlines as an example of how to conduct a safe ceremony, but some not only questioned but denounced the decision,” he said. “Still, we move forward in faith, finding ways to make sure the ceremonies were held in a safe manner while still honoring the outstanding accomplishments of our young students.”

Surviving and Thriving Small Beginnings

The Homewood Library’s first chapter began in 1941 in a small room at Homewood’s City Hall. The year library Director Deborah Fout first joined the staff was the same year the library gained its first freestanding location. It was 1952 and the library was located on the site now occupied by the Assistance League of Birmingham’s storefront Primetime Treasures. While the library has evolved in many ways over the years, the extent to which staff and patrons have had to adapt over the past 12 months has been unprecedented, Fout said. “The staff always knew that the library was an important community hub within Homewood and Jefferson County, but the pandemic gave us a bet-

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Throughout March, community supporters have been sending birthday cards to the Homewood Public Library to celebrate its 80th birthday. The official anniversary of the library was March 24, but in light of health and safety restrictions, the library teen advisory board found a way to celebrate while remaining socially distant. The board is a service group composed of local kids in grades 6-12. “At one of their monthly meetings, they brainstormed safe ways for the community to celebrate the library turning 80,” said Assistant Director and Teen Librarian Judith Wright. “Since we cannot gather to celebrate, they suggested we ask our community to send us birthday cards to celebrate this big milestone.”

Financially OK

Financially, the city made it through the pandemic relatively unscathed, Brocato said, despite early projections that the city could lose between $8 million and $15 million in revenue. “From a financial perspective, I’m proud to say that our staff and our City Council were ahead of the curve with doing all we could to protect the city finances during the COVID crisis,” he said. “We called on our department heads and asked them to look at ways to reduce spending and cut costs … . Everything was on the table.” Those cuts to operational expenses, along with “better-than-projected” revenues, meant that the city “ended 2020 in the black and financially sound,” Brocato said. Business in the city continued despite the pandemic, he added, with 1,123 new business licenses issued and 23 new commercial buildings built; 399 new single-family homes also were built in Hoover in 2020. Brocato touched on other crises that emerged amid the pandemic, including the protests in response to the police killing of Minneapolis man George Floyd. “Protestors began holding nightly and then weekly protests on city property that required us to add another layer to our incident management plan,” he said. “I believe our police officers performed splendidly during this time, working long hours to make sure our city was safe and under control while at the same time making sure those citizens had the opportunity to express their first amendment rights.” He also pointed to the July 4 shooting death of Royta Giles Jr., an 8-yearold caught in the crossfire of a shooting at the Riverchase Galleria. In response, Brocato said, Hoover police increased their presence at the mall, while owner Brookfield Properties “Like businesses and schools, the pandemic forced us to completely revamp the way we did things,” Fout said. “The staff came together as a team, rising to the challenge and creating innovative ways to safely provide materials, services and programming to a community that needed educational resources, activities and entertainment.”

Library Celebrates 80th Birthday

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Birthday Card Display

Assistant Director and Teen Librarian Judith Wright said the library has received some amazing cards, including one from Homewood Public Library (shown on the cover).

ter understanding of how the library impacts lives,” Fout said. She finds pride in the willingness of her staff to persevere through the changes imposed on the facility during the pandemic.

A selection of the library’s birthday cards are on display at the library and will remain so through a portion of April. “We’ve received some amazing cards, and it’s very difficult to pick a favorite,” Wright said. “Our sister library, Homewood Public Library, Illinois, sent us a giant card signed by their staff; a Homewood preschool class sent sweet, adorable handmade cards; and many people wrote lovely sentiments about the library on cards that they sent.” Wright added that a few cards were even sent to the library’s “four-legged

implemented “police-trained, gundetecting canines that, while nonintrusive to shoppers, are able to sniff out anyone carrying a weapon.” “We know these efforts cannot bring Royta back nor erase those scars,” he said. “Nevertheless, we are committed to making our city as safe as possible and making criminals know that brazen acts of lawlessness and evil will not be tolerated here, ever.” Crime dropped overall in 2020, with a nearly 16% reduction in total offenses, he said, including a 30% drop in burglaries.

Bright Future Predicted

Despite the challenges that last year brought, Brocato said he believed Hoover’s future is “very bright.” “As I look to the next four years, I do so with a clear and concise vision aimed at moving our city forward,” he said. Strategic priorities for the city, he said, include redevelopment of the Galleria, construction of a new interstate interchange exit along I-459, and expansion of the U.S. Secret Service’s National Computer Forensic Institute, which he called “a crown jewel for our nation’s law enforcement.” He also pointed to ongoing efforts to make sure the city’s hiring process is diverse and inclusive, including advertising city job openings “to all groups of people” and appointing a diversity coordinator in the city’s human resources department. “Moreover, we removed unintended barriers that might limit the success of underrepresented applicants in finding work with the city,” he said. “All of these efforts represent permanent, deliberate change to how we staff our city government.” “I must admit, I was very grateful to see the arrival of 2021,” he said. “I truly believe this year will be much better than last … . I’m so encouraged about the future of our city.” Reading Buddies,” who reside at the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. In addition to the card campaign, library staff and support have found a variety of ways to help celebrate the anniversary. Staffers created a birthday announcement video on their YouTube page, and the teen advisory board compiled a list of the top books they love, available on the library’s website. The library also will be handing out gifts throughout March, including logo tote bags, crayon packs, notebooks and candy. “Many libraries across the nation have suffered because of the pandemic, but because of the support from the library board, the city of Homewood, our Friends and foundation groups and our community, the Homewood Library has survived and even thrived,” Fout said. “The Homewood Library is ‘80 Years Strong’ and will come back fully and maybe even better to continue to serve the city of Homewood and Jefferson County for the next 80 years.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

NEWS

The Samford University Board of Trustees recently announced that Beck A. Taylor will become the 19th president, effective July 1. Former dean and professor of Samford’s Brock School of Business from 2005 to 2010, Taylor now is president of Whitworth University. Taylor is succeeding Andrew Westmoreland, who is retiring after serving as president of Samford since 2006. “I can sum up my feelings in five words,” Taylor said. “It’s great to be back.” “Samford University hired me as a 35-year-old business school dean, the youngest dean at that time at an accredited business school in the country, and I grew professionally, personally and spiritually at this place,” Taylor said. According to Bill Stevens, chair of Samford’s board, Taylor was recommended by a 23-member presidential search committee after it completed a six-month search. “The trustees are very confident that Dr. Taylor is the best person to lead Samford at this point in our 180year history,” Stevens said. “Dr. Taylor returns to Samford with an outstanding record of academic accomplishment and personal scholarship,” Stevens continued. “He has served as the 18th president of Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, since July 2010, where he has led an ambitious 10-year vision and strategic plan to elevate Whitworth among the leading Christian universities in the country.” During his tenure as dean of Samford’s business school, Taylor made positive change a cornerstone of his work. Stevens noted that Taylor led a transformation of the school of business, giving it its name to honor Harry B. Brock Jr., founder of Compass Bank. He additionally established eight academic programs and the Brock School of Business’ honors program. According to Taylor, when the search committee reached out to him and, after multiple interviews, offered him the job, “the timing seemed right.” This summer he will move back to Birmingham with his youngest daughter, Chloe. His oldest child, Zachary, is a Nashville-based recording artist. His older daughter, Lauren, is a recent Whitworth graduate who will soon begin medical school at the University

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Former Samford University Dean Beck A. Taylor Elected 19th President of the School

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 9

‘To be invited to become Samford’s 19th president is the honor of a lifetime and one that has profound meaning to all of our lives.’ BECK A. TAYLOR

of Washington. “I want you to know how excited Julie and I are to be returning to a university that we already love and admire,” he said. “To be invited to become Samford’s 19th president is the honor of a lifetime and one that has profound meaning to all of our lives.” He added that, as the Westmorelands have chosen to remain in Birmingham, he looks forward to continuing his friendship with his predecessor. “Since I left for Spokane, I have watched this university grow and change,” Taylor said. “The spirit of continuous improvement and of strategic leadership is palpable, even from across the country. I look forward to writing Samford’s next chapter of growth in innovation and leadership.”

His work for the first days, weeks and months of his presidency will be to listen to the Samford community – not just the students, faculty and staff but also the surrounding community, he said. 5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 “Even though I have some famil980-9030 iarity with Samford, I’ve been gone for southeasternjewelers.net 11 years and a lot of things have (1/4 mile off 280) changed,” he said. “So, I look forward to relearning the community and getting to know the ways in which it has grown since I left and working with all of Samford’s constituencies – students, staff, faculty, alumni, trustees and friends – to chart an exciting strategic To: Renee future for the institution.” From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., Inauguration ceremonies will take 205-824-1246, fax place in the fall. For more information Date: February about Samford’s 19th president, visit Samford.edu/PresidentElect. This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the February 11, 2021 —Emily Williams-Robertshaw issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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LIFE

‘Strategic Decision’

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Retiring Pastor Danny Wood Believes Someone New Should Lead Shades Mountain Baptist Post-Pandemic When Shades Mountain Baptist Church in Vestavia Hills holds three services on Easter Sunday, it will mark the final Resurrection Sunday for the Rev. Danny Wood as senior pastor of the 7,800-member church. Wood, who recently celebrated his 24th anniversary as Shades Mountain’s pastor, announced earlier this year that he plans to retire Aug. 15. “It was a strategic decision,” Wood said. “I’ve been looking at it for about three years. I didn’t want to go until I was 70 and I’m 67½ now.” Wood acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic played a role in his decision to go ahead and retire this year. The pandemic forced churches to focus on online services, which Wood believes will lead to dramatic changes in religious practices. “As COVID hit, I led us through that and I think what we did was effective, but things will be different going forward,” Wood said. “We’re never going to return back to 2019. There are things that happened in

2020 that are going to cause us to have to make some challenging changes. “As I looked at it, at the most I’d be here another two years, but I decided I was not the man to lead us through the next phase. We need someone with fresh eyes to lead.” Wood was born in Birmingham before moving to Atlanta when he was 6. He returned to the state to attend college at Auburn. After graduating, Wood returned to Birmingham to work at South Central Bell, now named AT&T. While there, he met his wife, Janice. The couple joined Shades Mountain, and Wood taught in the singles ministry and was ordained as a deacon. After attending Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he became pastor at First Baptist Church in Ruston, Louisiana, where his daughter, Lauren, was born. Wood became Shades Mountain’s pastor in 1997 with then-retiring pastor Charles T. Carter, who had been at the church for 26 years, assuming the title of senior pastor. Wood served in

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‘I am ready for the next chapter, whatever the next chapter is. I’ll be doing ministry. It’s just a redirection. I am excited about what (the) Lord has next for me and Janice.’ REV. DANNY WOOD

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

a one-year transition period and then succeeded Carter when he stepped down as senior pastor in 1998. Wood is thankful for the growth of the church with him as pastor. The church underwent four capital campaigns as the entire campus was being redone over the years.

It’s About the People

But it’s not that transformation that brings Wood satisfaction. It’s the people. “I think my greatest joy when I look back over the years is, I see a loving church, a church that has

embraced the heart of the Lord for the world in its commitment to missions, locally and abroad, with both giving and going,” Wood said. “We’ve got unity and a healthy body that trusts the leadership, is very active and is a very generous congregation in the many things that our people do for others in Christian love.” In 2020, Wood announced Shades Mountain had “adopted” McElwain Baptist Church, which had been struggling with declining membership. With his background in business, Wood said the next pastor will take

over a church that is on firm financial footing. “The church is in excellent position financially,” he said. “We’ll be debt free soon. We have a great staff, and the new man can come in with a clean white board.” The church has hired an executive search firm to assist its pastor search committee. “I am confident their work will help lead us to the next pastor for Shades by the summer,” Wood said. Wood doesn’t have any firm plans yet, but he’s praying for wisdom and guidance. “I am ready for the next chapter, whatever the next chapter is,” he said. “I’ll be doing ministry. It’s just a redirection. I am excited about what (the) Lord has next for me and Janice.” Wood is confident Shades Mountain will continue its mission. “I think the best days are ahead for Shades,” he said. Shades Mountain’s Easter services will be held at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 11

LIFE

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

this year due to the pandemic, Heglas and Moulton decided they would try to raise funds for the rest of the needed materials rather than take money out of the organization’s grant fund. “We wanted to leave as much money in the grant fund as possible to give back to the community,” Heglas said. “We were able to raise enough funds from members of the Service Club to pay for the rest of the baskets.” With that money, the ladies were able to organize a variety of basket fillers, including chocolate bunnies, colorful lollipops, fruit gummies, From left, Betty Moulton, Sophie Griffies and Lori Heglas.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

Pat Vanderwall and Susette Clark-Walker

stickers, stuffed animals, coloring

books, small toys and other items. The process was kept COVIDsafe, as well, with members donning gloves, frequently sanitizing and staying masked throughout the process. The annual Easter basket drive is only one of many ways that the more than 125 members of the Hoover Service Club give back to their community. In addition, the group supports a variety of local community service organizations and provides scholarships to graduating Hoover students. For more information, visit hooverserviceclub.com.

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Hoover Service Club Packs 96 Easter Baskets for Community Food Banks By Emily Williams-Robertshaw Members of the Hoover Service Club celebrated an annual Lenten season tradition at their March meeting. They gathered at the Hoover Country Club on March 11 to assemble 96 Easter baskets to be donated to local food banks. “It’s my favorite activity of the year,” said Community Service coChairwoman Lori Heglas. This is the second year in a row that Heglas has organized the event along with coChairwoman Betty Moulton. According to Heglas, she’s not alone in loving the annual activity. She said that in about December, members began itching to ask her about the Easter basket plans, hoping they would get to safely do their part to help assemble them. This year’s Easter basket drive produced a higher number of baskets than in years past. “When we were buying the initial baskets and materials last year, we thought there would probably be such an increased demand at the food bank,” Heglas said. That proved to be true due to the pressures that the pandemic has placed on households throughout the area. “It allowed us to serve neighbors at two different food banks,” she said.

Jean Ingram and Kim Allen.

This year, the baskets were delivered not only to the regular beneficiary, the United Way food bank at Green Valley Baptist Church, but also to Oak Mountain Missions. “We try to give the kids a basket that is like their friends’,” Heglas said. They want the kids who pick up these baskets from the food bank to be able to brag about their Easter alongside their friends. “Because Easter was such a nonevent last year, Walmart had a lot of their Easter stuff on sale for 5 and 10 cents,” Heglas said. “So we bought 96 Easter baskets, and all of the eggs, and all of the grass for $23.50.” Luckily, Moulton had a space in her house perfectly suited to store the materials for this year’s event. Because fundraising was stifled

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COOK From page one

2019 and throughout the pandemic.

Humble Beginnings

The former head of a Decatur private school, Mayo was an avid volunteer for Cook’s before it was transformed into the facility it is today. It began from a touring display of John Cook Sr.’s, of Cook’s Pest Control, collection of insects. In the 1980s, it grew into a small museum featuring collections of rocks, fossils, coral, federally protected migratory birds and other creatures. “They had a bunch of animals that they used for educational shows,” he said. “I would come in a couple of times a week in the morning to do things like feed crickets to the lizards.” The museum was closed in 2016 while the space was being reinvented. As the facility neared its opening date in 2019, Mayo was asked to assume the role of executive director. He said it was the right timing, as he had been considering a career change after spending 26 years in education. After some soft openings for school groups, the museum opened officially in summer 2019. When schools reopened in the fall, it gave staff time to work out kinks in the flow of the museum. “We got out there to January and February (2020) and were starting to really just ramp up,” Mayo said. “We had found our stride with school groups.” They also began adding in “Fun Days,” which took place on Saturdays and offered themed educational lessons and experiences, such as dissections, demos and animal encounters. The first Fun Day, in January 2020, was attended by 1,500 people. The second, in February, drew about 1,800 attendees. “That’s really full for the museum,” Mayo said. To combat crowding in the exhibit halls, tickets were limited to 50 entrances every 15 minutes. “Obviously, we were watching the news,” Mayo said. “We get to early March and had a number of things scheduled, including a wedding reception in the facility’s event space.” Days before Gov. Kay Ivey made the shutdown official, Cook’s closed to the public and remained that way for the two-month mandated shutdown.

Cook Museum of Natural Science

exhibits and activities about different animals, space, rocks and minerals, caves, rivers, the arctic, insects and more. According to Executive Director Scott Mayo, visitors should allow between one and two hours for kids to explore. “I have two granddaughters,” he said. “One is 7 and the other is 4. The 7-year-old can read and wants to show me that she can read everything in the exhibits. My 4½-year-old is running from one interactive to another. “Both of them will get out of there in anywhere from 1 to 1½ hours and have two totally different experiences,” he said. One of the most popular features, located in the Foundations exhibit, is a Kinetic sand table. Using a hi-tech software program, the interactive display on the kinetic sand presents different biomes found around the world. “In the Pacific Northwest, if you make the mountains a certain height, you will make precipitation or they will be snowcapped up top,” Mayo said. “If you hollow out the top, you’ll get a really cool volcano.” In other biomes, you can create rain and allow crops to grow. “That is the one place in the museum where kids cry when mom says we have to move on to the next exhibit,” Mayo said. To keep things COVID safe, guests are able to sanitize their hands at specified stations before and after using the table, or they can wear gloves. Mayo noted that kids also are consistently in awe of the museum’s 15,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, home to a variety of marine life including Kale, the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle. “He is a crowd favorite, he’s just so stinking cute,” Mayo said. “Among all of the fish in the tank, he is truly the life and star of the show.” In the Forests exhibit, kids can climb a life-sized tulip poplar tree and explore its “squirrel’s nest.” A lot of thought went into conceptualizing each exhibit feature, Mayo noted, as well as fine-tuning since the museum’s opening in the summer of

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

One of Cook Museum of Natural Science’s prized residents, is a sea turtle donated by the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center.

The museum was closed for an additional two months to allow workers to do some housekeeping. “We learned a lot in those months that we were open,” Mayor said. “We learned that we needed to tweak some things. We had some improvements we needed to make and had some fairly major changes on a couple of the aquariums.” Amid that closure, the museum welcomed one of its prized residents, the sea turtle donated by the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. “We had to go pick him up, bring him back, and we had to quarantine for a number of weeks,” Mayo said. “Then he was moved to his current home in the 15,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, where we needed to quarantine him again before we could make the reveal. These are live animals, and anything could happen. “Once we had him here and we knew that he was fine, while we were still closed to the public, that’s when we started hyping up our reopening,” Mayo added. It was a slow start when they revved back up, as schools were avoiding field trips and the pandemic continued to rage on. So, the museum adapted and began offering a new form of educational classes. They reached out to kids who were homeschooling and virtually learning, offering 1½-hour educational classes covering specific topics such as dissection, biomes and weather. “When we first rolled those out in September, the demand was high,” he said. “Part of it was, given the COVID restrictions on occupancy, we could only put 15 kids in a 25-person classroom.” With the reduced class size, they were consistently selling out. “That’s really where we survived until probably about the first of this month,” Mayo said.

Looking Forward

In March, as spring breakers around the Midwest and Southeast took advantage of the break to travel, a switch was flipped. “Our weekend crowds started growing,” Mayo said. In addition, the phone in the staff offices began ringing off the hook with schools organizing field trips through the remainder of the spring and even into fall. The first Fun Day since shutdowns, dubbed Amphibian Day, was “phenomenal,” Mayo said. “It was nowhere near what it used to be but, relatively speaking, it felt like old times,” he said. In mid-March, Mayo and his staff were pleased to see license plates from states including Kansas, Kentucky, Tennessee and Missouri filling the parking lot. Special day camps have been added on holiday weekends and weekdays and have been quickly selling out. These give kids the opportunity to get behind-the-scenes access to the facility in small groups. For more information and to plan your day trip to Decatur, visit cookmuseum.org.

Get Your Motor Running Museums to Satisfy Spring Break Adventure Seekers Close to Home

Birmingham

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum In addition to its professional automobile and motorcycle race course, Barber Motorsports offers a museum dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, exhibition and history of motorcycles, vintage vehicles and motorsports. Website: barbermuseum.org McWane Science Center McWane Science Center’s mission is to “spark wonder and curiosity about our world though hands-on science.” To accomplish this mission, McWane Science Center creates hands-on science experiences that parents and teachers value and kids love. The museum’s newest permanent exhibit, Brickology, features construction block play. Website: mcwane.org Birmingham Museum of Art The Birmingham Museum of Art houses a diverse collection of more than 27,000 paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings and decorative arts dating from ancient to modern times. The collection presents a rich panorama of cultures, featuring the museum’s extensive holdings of Asian, European, American, African, pre-Columbian, and Native American art. Current visiting exhibitions include All Things Bright and Beautiful, An Epic of Earth and Water and Wall to Wall. Website: artsbma.org Southern Museum of Flight Southern Museum of Flight, one of the largest aviation museums in the Southeast, is dedicated to presenting civilian, military and experimental aircraft and memorabilia from the earliest history of powered flight. The 75,000-square-foot facility houses more than 100 aircraft, as well as engines, models, artifacts, photographs and paintings. In addition, the museum is home to the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame, with more than 70 biographical plaques presenting Alabama aviation history. Website: southernmuseumofflight.org Birmingham Civil Rights Institute The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is a cultural and educational research center that promotes a comprehensive understanding of the significance of civil rights developments in Birmingham. Website: bcri.org

Vulcan Park and Museum This 10-acre public park, first constructed in the 1930s and since extensively renovated, houses the statue of Vulcan atop Red Mountain. The facility includes an observation tower, park grounds and a museum that houses collections recounting Birmingham’s past and present. Website: visitvulcan.com Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Attached to the BirminghamJefferson Convention Complex, this three-story, 33,000-square-foot museum is one of the largest sports halls of fame in the nation. It is home to more than 6,000 pieces of sports memorabilia, with items from each inductee, dating back to the first induction class in 1969, displayed throughout the facility. Website: ashof.org Birmingham Negro Southern League Museum The mission of the Negro Southern League Museum is to present the history of African-American baseball in an unsurpassed manner by maintaining a world-class facility that recognizes the league’s impact on Birmingham and the world of professional baseball. Because of the pandemic, the museum is receiving guests only by appointment. To visit, book your tour 24 hours in advance at birminghamnslm.org. Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Founded in 1978, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame is a 501c3 nonprofit that honors Alabama’s jazz greats. Our mission is to preserve a continued and sustained program of illuminating the contributions of the state of Alabama through its citizens, environment, demographics and lore, and perpetuating the heritage of jazz music. Visitors take a journey through jazz history, from its humble beginnings in secular, folk traditions through its many contemporary incarnations. Website: jazzhall.com Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum — Calera From humble beginnings as a chapter of the National Railroad Historical Society, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum carries out its mission to preserve the sights, sounds and artifacts of railroading for future generations. Admission to the facility’s museum collection is free of charge and train rides are offered seasonally. Website: hodrrm.org

Barber Vintage Motor Sports Museum

12 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Desoto Caverns – Childersburg Guests will explore historic show caves and learn about their use by prehistoric Native Americans, gunpowder miners, early traders and moonshine makers. The site also offers a campground, picnic area, pavilions and more than 20 on-site attractions. Website: desotocavernspark.com American Village – Montevallo The American Village offers pioneering educational programs for children and adults in a campus inspired by some of America’s most historic places The American Village brings to life our nation’s stories of liberty and sacrifice. Website: americanvillage.org

Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa County Preservation Society Home Tours The Preservation Society operates and maintains five historical landmarks across Tuscaloosa offering daily tours, school field trips and community projects. Visitors are transported to each of the homes’ original time period. Homes open for free tours include the Old Tavern, the Battle-Friedman House and the Jamison-Van de Graaff Mansion. The Murphy-Collins House holds the Murphy African American Museum and is open for tours by appointment. Website: historictuscaloosa.org Alabama Museum of Natural History The Alabama Museum of Natural History is located in Smith Hall at the

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 13

LIFE University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa. Founded in 1831, it is the oldest museum in the state. Exhibits depicting the natural diversity of Alabama from the age of dinosaurs, the coal age and the ice age. Website: almnh.museums.ua.edu Moundville Archeological Park – Moundville The University of Alabama’s Moundville Archaeological Park is one of the nation’s premier Native American heritage sites. Called “The Big Apple of the 14th Century” by National Geographic, Moundville Archaeological Park was once the site of a powerful prehistoric community that, at its peak, was America’s largest city north of Mexico. The park’s Ancient Art and Technology Weekend will take place March 26 and 27. Website: moundville. museums.ua.edu

Anniston

Anniston Museum of Natural History The museum’s galleries offer more than 2,000 natural history items on permanent display, including minerals, fossils and rare animals in open dioramas. Exhibit halls feature glimpses into our prehistoric planet, Alabama’s biodiversity, a 250-gallon freshwater aquarium, birds of America, environments of Africa, ancient Egypt and more. Website: exploremag.org Berman Museum of World History Featuring more than 8,000 artifacts, the museum presents treasures and objects from around the world,

including paintings and sculptures. Exhibit halls highlight the American West, rare and exotic weapons, Asian art, World Wars, a Pearl Harbor room and exhibit on espionage. A new temporary gallery features the art of enamelwork and cloisonné pieces. Website: exploreamag.org International Motorsports Hall of Fame – Talladega The International Motorsports Hall of Fame celebrates those who have contributed to the history of motorsports racing. In addition to the three exhibit halls and pavilion area, the Motorsports Hall of Fame also includes the McCaig-Wellborn Motorsports Research Library, a 3,000-squarefoot space with more than 14,000 volumes of books, magazines and other research materials. Website: motorsportshalloffame.com

Auburn

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art Located on the campus of Auburn University, the museum contains six exhibition galleries offering 40,000 square feet of interior space to explore. Current exhibitions include Bernini and the Roman Baroque, Outside in and Lili Quintero Weaver: Darkroom Drawings. Website: jcsm. auburn.edu

Montgomery

Legacy Museum Located on a site where enslaved people were once warehoused and a block from one of the prominent slave

auction spaces in America, the Equal Justice Initiative’s museum employs unique technology to dramatize the enslavement of African Americans, the evolution of racial terror lynchings, legalized racial segregation and racial hierarchy in America. Website: museumandmemorial.eji.org/museum Freedom Rides Museum This Civil Rights museum located in a historic Greyhound Bus Station is dedicated to sharing the stories of the 1961 Freedom Rides. Website: ahc.alabama.gov/ FreedomRidesPlanYourVisit.aspx Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Established in the 1930s, the museum displays several art collections featuring examples of 19th and 20th century American paintings and sculptures, Southern art and other works. Current exhibitions include Bethany Collins, Anderson Scott, Revolution and Revival, The Language of Flowers and the ongoing Caddell Sculpture Garden. Website: mmfa.org The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum This is the only museum dedicated to the lives and legacies of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. The Fitzgeralds lived at the home from 1931 until 1932, writing portions of their respective novels “Tender Is the Night” and “Save Me the Waltz” during their time in Montgomery. Website: thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

Huntsville

U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum This museum is dedicated to promoting the accomplishments of military men and women. Displays include more than 30 historic military vehicles, dozens of weapons, uniforms and artifacts. Website: memorialmuseum.org U.S. Space and Rocket Museum A Smithsonian Affiliate and the official visitor center for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, the museum houses one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia. Website: rocketcenter.com Huntsville Museum of Art Founded in 1970, the museum’s 75,034-square-foot facility is in downtown Huntsville and includes 14 galleries. Website: hsvmuseum.org Earlyworks Children’s Museum EarlyWorks Children’s Museum is designed for children as a hands-on, interactive history museum. This facility best serves children ages 2-9. Website: earlyworks.com/earlyworks-childrensmuseum

Cullman

Crooked Creek Civil War Museum This park is located on a battle site where Union Col. Abel Straight and Confederate Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest fought for several hours, with a museum housed in an old log cabin and features numerous Civil War memorabilia. Website: visitcullman.org

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SOCIAL

14 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Waltz into Spring

Rescheduled Poinsettia Ball to Present 26 Young Women

he Poinsettia Men’s Club and Ballet Women’s Committee will host the 53rd annual Poinsettia Ball this spring at the Vestavia Country Club. Twenty-six young women will be presented by their families. After their presentation, the debutantes will take part in the traditional father-daughter waltz, followed by music and a reception. Eighteen junior debutantes will be introduced and led to their seats in the ballroom by their fathers before the debutantes enter. Melissa McMurray is the junior debutante social chairman and Jennifer Gentle is the junior debutante assistant chairman. The Ballet Women’s Committee was founded in 1960 to foster and promote fine arts in the greater Birmingham area. All proceeds from the Poinsettia Ball go to support the Alabama Ballet. The Men’s Club president is Mike Gregory. The Ballet Women’s Committee president is Ashley Stockard. Liz Guest is the ball board president. Jayne Southerland is the ball chairman. Cindy Tyus is the debutante social chairman who coordinates all of the debutante’s activities. The Benefactors Benefit chairman is Liz Losole. The Ballet Women’s Committee board includes Stockard, Southerland, Tyus, Guest, Sharon Maddox, Lianne Hand, Stephanie Whisenhunt, Tammy Towns, Kelly Triano, Ashley Moran, Melissa McMurray, Allison Herr and Sarah Bryan. On Dec. 13, the Poinsettia Ball board hosted a Mother-Daughter tea for the 26 Poinsettia debutantes and their mothers. The event was hosted in the early evening at Vestavia Country Club, complete with Christmas themed snacks and treats. Guests were invited to drop in for a socially distanced visit and debutantes left with a poinsettia plant to brighten their holiday as well as personalized stationary created by Darnell’s Fun Stuff in Vestavia Hills. ❖

Harper Elizabeth Anderson, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Russell Anderson III

Emily Anne Beauchaine, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Ironside Beauchaine

Ellen Louise Farris, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Craig Allen Farris

Sarah Hamilton Gladney, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Van Hamilton Gladney

Frederica Elizabeth Hecker, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. William Fulham Hecker Jr.

Lily Grace Henley, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Dover Henley

Rachel Aileen Lebo, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Steven Troy Lebo

Taylor Morgan McGill, daughter of Mrs. Paige Allison McGill Ammons and Commissioner Steven Burton Ammons

Barrett Elisabeth Weaver Moran, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Patrick Moran and the late Mr. Herschel Edward Weaver Jr.

Caroline Marie Rice, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Wayne Rice

Anna Jane Roberson, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. John Louis Roberson Jr.

Mary Catherine Saville, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Andrew James Saville

Anna Brooke Tarrant, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Lance Robert Tarrant

Emily Lynn Taylor, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Lynwood Taylor Jr.

Courtney Anne Westhoven, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Anthony Westhoven

Sarah Michael Whisenhunt, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Tab Whisenhunt

Caroline Parrish Branche, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. James Edward Branche Jr.

Caroline Dawson Christiansen, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Wayne Christiansen

Katherine Alison Glenn, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Onis Trey Glenn III

Caroline Elizabeth Green, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Corey Green

Georgia Patricia Morros, daughter of Mrs. Adriana Wahl Morros and the late Dr. Demetrius Konstantine Morros

Catherine Shelby Patterson, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Dudley Patterson

Nicole Marie Plaia, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Sam Joseph Plaia Jr.

Caitlyn Calloway Tyus, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Kevin O’Brien Tyus

Anna Wynne Watts, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Brantley Ray Watts

Mary Evelyn Welch, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. William Langford Welch Jr. and Mr. & Mrs. Brian Todd Southerland

On Dec. 13, the Poinsettia Ball board hosted a Mother-Daughter tea for the 26 Poinsettia debutantes and their mothers. From left, Lianne Hand, Cindy Tyus, Kelly Triano, Melissa McMurray, Liz Guest, Tammy Towns and Sarah Bryan. Photos courtesy Belmont Studios

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 15

Coronets Dance Club Hosts Meeting, Announces Plans for Spring Party

From left, Buddy Moon, Glen Davis, Leland Keller and Scott Sims. Below, Sam Gaston and Robbie Lee.

Batter Up

Kiwanis Club of Homewood-Mountain Brook Pancake Breakfast Raised Funds for Homewood Schools A line of cars rolled through the Exceptional Foundation parking lot throughout the morning of March 13 for the Kiwanis Club of HomewoodMountain Brook’s annual Pancake Breakfast. This year’s event was transformed into a drive-thru to accommodate COVID health restrictions. The primary beneficiary of this year’s fundraiser is the Homewood City Schools Foundation. Each year, the foundation awards teachers grants to fund innovative classroom projects

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

The Cornets Dance Club had its semiannual board meeting and luncheon meeting Feb. 26 at Vestavia Country Club. Outgoing club president Marsha Hire presided over the meetings. Hire announced that, in lieu of the spring dance, the board had voted to sponsor an outside cocktail party at Vestavia Country Club. The party will be complimentary to members and their guests, and the date is to be determined. New board members for the 20212022 period were announced. They included Edna Elderman, president; Linda Wood, vice president; Marsha McCarty, secretary; Diane Horn, treasurer; P.A. Carmichael, assistant treasurer; and Marsha Hire, parliamentarian. There were 23 in attendance at the luncheon, including Catherine Amos, Linda Bachus, Nancy Becker, Redonda Broom, Peggie Carnichael, Patty Clay, Patty Echols, Cindy Edmonds, Cheryl Hardwick, Marsha Hire, Jean Hendrickson, Diane Horn, Sarah Logan, Marsha McCarty, Jakie Qualls, Sara Stanley, Tammy Townes, Shelley Watkins and Rebecca Wingett. ❖

or professional development. In addition to the foundation, the Kiwanis Club chapter also lends support throughout the year to its sponsored youth organizations, including high school key clubs in Vestavia Hills, Homewood, Clay-Chalkville and Hewitt-Trussville, the Homewood Middle School Builders Club and the Aktion Club at the Exceptional Foundation. ❖

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Mike Wedgworth (205) 365-4344

16 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

SENIORS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ACTIVE ADULTS

Labor of Love

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

hen the McWane Science Center first opened its doors in 1998, Vestavia Hills resident Lynn Hendricks was ready to volunteer. Hendricks has served as a docent at the museum for more than two decades, working both with visitors and behind the scenes in nearly every exhibit. “I love science,” Hendricks said. “I worked for many years as a medical technologist and have always been interested in biology and chemistry. I love animals and I actually like museums.” Hendricks and her husband, Peter, have been avid travelers, and two places they always make time for in their travels are zoos and science museums. The services that McWane provides are something Hendricks is passionate about and feels are vital to the community. “It offers a hands-on opportunity for people to engage in science,” she said. “They’re not just reading a book. They’re not just looking at pictures. Throughout the museum they can engage.” Over the years, Hendricks has seen the museum grow, but its core mission has held true. “In the beginning, we only had the first floor, and the second floor was often for traveling exhibits,” she said. The museum then added its aquarium exhibit, World of Water, and opened up its third floor to house larger traveling exhibits, taking visitors on journeys to the Titanic, through Egypt or

through the life and accomplishments of Albert Einstein. “The children’s area that we started with was Just My Size,” Hendricks said. “It was a small enclosure on the first floor, and now we have the huge Itty Bitty Magic City on the second floor. “I was always disappointed that my grandchildren had aged out by that time,” she said. In recent years, Hendricks has been excited to see what the in-house McWane exhibits team has been able to create. The newest addition is the Brickology exhibit, which uses block play with Legos to introduce lessons in science, engineering, art and math. While Hendricks has worked throughout the museum, her main docent duties these days take place behind the scenes in the World of Water, tending to the aquatic life. It has been a great outlet through the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. “There was a time where the museum was closed for all but critical staff,” she said. “When the museum opened back up to staff only, there was a critical need to feed the fish and clean the tanks, so I was allowed to come back.” When Hendricks first started volunteering, she went to the museum twice a week, then dropped down to once a week for a while. After spending time in lockdown, she went back up to two days a week so she could get out of the house.

Diving With Fish, Too

Hendricks has been able to see some of the fish she tends to at the museum in their natural habitat, having been an avid diver for a number of years.

Photo courtesy McWane Science Center

Longtime McWane Volunteer Lynn Hendricks Discusses Love of Museums, Science and the Ocean

Lynn Hendricks has served as a docent at the museum for more than two decades, working both with visitors and behind the scenes in nearly every exhibit.

“I was apprehensive when I first started, but my husband really loved it,” she said. When he went to such great lengths as to buy her equipment and hire an instructor to assist them on a trip to the Caribbean, Hendricks said she knew she needed to at least try diving. “My instructor said, just take a camera,” she said. “It will take all of your fear away and you’ll focus on what you want to take pictures of.”

Once she overcame her fear, she developed a great respect for the ocean, which she revisits every time she goes into the facility to work. In her duties with the aquariums, she is able to create up-close and personal experiences with fish she saw from a distance in her travels. “We have a lot of sharks,” she said. “When they’re small, we can hand-feed them. When I say hand-feed them, we put the food on a stick, we don’t stick our hands near them. I never got to feed fish when I was in the ocean.” Not only do kids who visit get excited about science, the facility provides an opportunity for them to experience new things. Especially, Hendricks noted, in the World of Water. “In our area, many of these adults and children never get to see these fish unless you’re a diver,” she said. Hendricks said she is patiently awaiting the day they can safely re-open the touch pools. “It’s pretty awesome for (the kids) to feel the skin of a shark or feel the skin of a stingray,” she said. “You don’t have your pet stingray in your bathtub at home.” The museum offers something that you don’t get out of a book, and it offers it to people who may not have the chance to travel and see animals in their native environment. “They have a great staff and it’s a great place to volunteer,” Hendricks said. “If you have extra hours, if you are looking for a niche in your life, if you like people, there are great opportunities there. “So, don’t be shy,” she added. “Come ahead, because I’m sure everyone would love to have more volunteers.” For more information, visit mcwane.org/volunteer.

During pandemic shutdowns, residents of Somerby St. Vincent’s One Nineteen found ways to take advantage of the lockdowns to accomplish long-time goals and find new hobbies. Betty Hagel, a Somerby resident since 2014 who is legally blind, was inspired by her family to sit down and write a book recounting her life story. From April to November, Hagel compiled what became a 240-page autobiography with help from her daughter Lana Smitherman. She then gave her personally published book, “Pandemic Ponderings,” to her children and grandchildren as a Christmas Gift. Hagel hosted a book signing Dec. 22 at Somerby. In April, senior citizens across the country began collaborating on a new pirate radio station managed by marketing company Luckie’s Atlanta office and dubbed Radio Recliner. The station was created in collaboration with the company’s client Bridge Senior Living as a way to stay connected to others while confined. Somerby residents have been in on the action, including Virginia Hawsey, known as DJ Ginger Bee, and Michael Newson, a retired law-

Photo courtesy Somerby St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

Somerby Residents Write Books, Become Radio DJs During Pandemic Lockdowns

From left: Betty Hagel was inspired by her family to sit down and write a book recounting her life story; Somerby residents have joined other senior citizens across the country collaborating on a new pirate radio station, including Michael Newson a retired lawyer whose radio alias is DJ Legal and Virginia Hawsey, known as DJ Ginger Bee.

yer whose radio alias is DJ Legal. According to Somerby Executive Director Jamie Wise, the two DJs have had a great time

working with their producer to create playlists. “Somerby residents have enjoyed challenging each other with resident DJ’s and listening

to some great music,” Wise said. New shows air at 11 a.m. each day at radiorecliner.com. —Emily-Williams-Robertshaw

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 17

SENIORS

Danberry at Inverness The Unique Choice in Senior Living

In the past, seniors seeking a retirement community Comprehensive health and wellness services for had few options. Often, it was either an uninspiring independent living, assisted living and memory care urban high-rise with few outside amenities or an lifestyles are available at Danberry at Inverness, and upscale development built around a golf-course or they are offered in meticulously designed environwaterfront with few personal services. ments that invite nature indoors. For example, throughBut today’s retirees and tomorrow’s retiring baby out the Danberry at Inverness Clubhouse, nature seamboomers increasingly demand an environment that not lessly blends both indoors and out with fireplaces, the only is carefree, but also offers them ample opportuniatrium lobby, English tea gardens and waterfalls. Here, ties to remain mentally and physically active in a residents can take care of everyday details and enjoy a soothing natural setting. range of first-class amenities (movie theater, creative In other words, they want an address that redefines art studio, bridge and card rooms) and services (library, retirement. mail/communications room). Dining is available in the Danberry at Inverness senior living community, formal dining room and al fresco on the garden terrace. located at 235 Inverness Center Drive in Hoover, justMOUNTAIN JOURNAl OVER THE life off US 280 and Valleydale Road, is an example of an A Dynamic Approach to Wellness inspiring approach to retirement living that feels The advantages of living in one of today’s wellnessunique from the moment one enters its atrium lobby. oriented retirement communities are many: ample Stained-glass windows and a cascading waterfall set the mood for a retirement lifestyle that emphasizes nat- opportunities to stay as strong and independent as Danberry at Inverness retirement community has been chosen as in the mainstream of activities and ural beauty, vitality and personal fulfillment.oneResidents of the nation’s toppossible, communities staying in 2013 on SeniorAdvisor.com, the premier online ratings events and reviews sitekeeping for senior living communities and a healthy outlook on life. Danberry can choose from comfortable one-, two- or three-bednationwide. at Inverness offers exceptional fitness opportunities all room luxury apartment homes which are appointed The SeniorAdvisor 2013 Excellence Award recognizes senior living under one roof, such “senior-friendly” spa services, with upscale features such as ceramic tile floors, grancommunities that receive consistently high ratings andas positive reviews from residents, families, and visitors. “Receivingfitness this des ignation a fully equipped center, classes including Tai ite countertops and stainless steel appliances. English places Danberry in the top one percent of all retirement communities Chi,ataerobics, waterdirector, yogaLori and Pilates, a private seniorgardens and flowering landscapes complete nationwide,” these picsaid Danberry Inverness marketing Krueger. “We are so proud that soheated many—especially residents— friendly indoor,ourresort-style saltwater pool and a ture-perfect residences. consider us to be one of the wellness“Our clinic. The award-winning Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired residents will tell best of the best.” in Inverness on“We make residents architecture and natural surroundings only addLocated to the you thatsure theyour wish they’dhave every opportuniLake Heather, Danberry at moved here sooner. They ty to learn, explore and savor life in a whole new peaceful, stress-reducing environment. Inverness is a senior living carefree, fun-filled way,” said the Krueger. “In other words, we help them “We believe that Danberry at Inverness offers people community for adults 55 and love older with every convenience and rewarding retiredesign a future filled with fun!” over 55 independent living unlike anywhere else one and amenity imaginable, ment lifestyle they find that encourages growth, learning and discovery of new including a clubhouse with This community really must be seen to be believed, we love today, visit rooms, a ballroom, so stopatbyDanberry. DanberryAnd at Inverness things about yourself and your environment,”card said indoor swimming pool, serving them!” DanberryAtInverness.com or call 443-9500. Danberry at Inverness Marketing Director Lori Krueger. creative art studio, salon/

Thursday, March 20, 2014 • 13

Danberry at Inverness

ABOVE: Residents spending time together at Danberry at Inverness. LEFT: The atrium at Danberry at Inverness is the center of the clubhouse. It connects the common areas and provides a place where residents can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cocktail with friends before dinner.

lori Krueger, marketing director, spa, theater, fitness studio, Danberry at Inverness. innovative wellness programs and much more. Residents enjoy chef-prepared menus and dining with friends in the casual bistro or more formal dining room. Services include scheduled transportation, concierge and weekly housekeeping. For those in need of a helping hand, 24-hour licensed professional nursing is available on-site in Assisted Living at Danberry, which offers a comfortable and luxurious atmosphere. On-site physical and occupational therapy also are available. “Our residents will tell you that they wish they’d moved here sooner. They love the carefree, fun-filled and rewarding retirement lifestyle they find at Danberry,” said Krueger. “And we love serving them!” Danberry is the flagship senior housing development for the Daniel Corporation and is managed by CRSA®, an LCS® company. Danberry at Inverness is located on Lake Heather just off U.S. 280 and Valleydale Road in Hoover, 443-9500.

Get more out of life at Danberry at Inverness Even more than larger floor plans, gorgeous architecture, and outstanding amenities—Danberry at Inverness frees you to create a lifestyle all your own, with Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care all right here. More peace of mind. And a lot more fun!

Residents enjoy:

• Flexible dining options • Transportation • Housekeeping • Fitness Center • Wellness Clinic • 24-hour nursing • Indoor resort-style pool ARE YOUR VETERANS BENEFITS SAFE? • Full-service salon & spa • Card & billiard rooms • Creative arts studio Our speaker is William G. Nolan, an accredited attorney with the VA and a local Elder Law attorney • Movie theater with the firm Nolan Stewart, PC. Mr. Nolan has written articles about and is a frequent speaker on the subject of Veterans benefits. • And much more!

Congress is in session –

Top: The atrium at Danberry is the center of the clubhouse that connects the common areas, providing a place residents can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cocktail with friends before dinner. lefT: Waterfall at the entrance to Danberry. Above: lori Krueger, left, marketing director and Jaclyn Gardner, executive director of Danberry at Inverness.

Veterans benefits have been available since WWII... yet there are some in Congress who want to significantly curtail your benefits. If you are a Veteran or the widow of a Veteran, or if you might become a caregiver for a Veteran, please join us for an informative and timely (and free!) presentation on “The Future of Your VA Benefits”.

Call (205) 443-9500. You will also learn more about services provided to qualified Veterans exclusively by Always Best Care.

The Future of Center Your 235 Inverness Drive VA Benefits

Tuesday, April 8 ORHoover, Thursday, 10, 2014 • 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ALApril 35242 Refreshments and Door Prizes DanberryAtInverness.com 235 Inverness Center Drive • Hoover, AL

Distinctively Different Retirement Living

Limited Availability!

The changes that Congress proposes are not yet law but their intent is clear – they want to make it much harder for Veterans and widows to obtain their pensions. Consider applying for your pension now, before it becomes more difficult!

RSVP to (205) 443-9500. Limited Seating. In accordance with Alabama Bar requirements, no representation is made that the quality of legal services is greater than the legal services performed by other lawyers. ARPC 7.2(e)

235 Inverness Center Drive Hoover, AL 35242

www.DanberryAtInverness.com

18 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SENIORS

From left, Tim Meehan, Roxanne Shuler, Lisa Tinney, Chris Blackerby and Dave Lee.

Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

Nestled in an attractively landscaped and wooded pocket of Birmingham, Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen provides Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite Care and Therapy. The community also shares a campus with Ascension’s One Nineteen Health and Wellness Center, where residents are provided complimentary membership. Beginning in 2019, a full-scale remodel of Somerby’s interiors began in order to update furnishings throughout the facility. While the pandemic halted some progress, Executive Director Jamie Wise notes that finishing touches were completed early this year. At Somerby, a spotlight is placed upon the many social opportunities residence at Somerby provides, which persevered safely through the pandemic. In addition to a beautiful residence, life at Somerby offers formal and casual dining, on-campus entertainment, recreational classes

and activities, wellness programs and many social opportunities. “As we open up further to the public, our families are starting to make their reservations to come in and enjoy our programming, our meals and enjoy each other’s company in what is our new normal,” said Wise. She notes that Somerby has been able to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to all of its residents and currently states that 97% of its residents have been fully vaccinated. “We’re still wearing masks and socially distancing, but it is wonderful that our residents can have church services, invite guests and participate in all of our lifestyle programming and activities when space allows,” Wise said. Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is located at 200 One Nineteen Blvd, and their phone number is (205) 745-4600.

AT SOMERBY, WE’RE TRANSFORMING WHAT SENIOR LIVING LOOKS LIKE AND FEELS LIKE. We create an environment where quality care means being supported and encouraged from the moment you move in.

VISIT US AT SOMERBYSPARK.COM • 800.994.4669 • INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

Senior Placement Services

Finding the right retirement community for yourself or a loved one can be a difficult task. The Birmingham area is blessed with an abundance of excellent retirement communities, but for seniors, the process of locating the community that matches with their lifestyle needs and their budget can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a solution for those considering the move to a retirement community. Senior Placement Services, LLC has helped hundreds of seniors find the perfect fit for their clients since the company’s founding in 2018. Best of all, said owner Tim Meehan, the service is absolutely free. Clients of Senior Placement Services will never pay a fee either to the company or to the retirement community they choose as their new home. “Many people find it hard to believe,” said Tim, “but our services are actually 100% free to our clients.” Tim and his team of Placement Specialists bring decades of senior care industry experience to the task of helping seniors locate the best fit for

their needs. “Because we know the industry and have worked with the local communities,” said Tim, “we are able to assess our clients’ needs and narrow their search to those communities that offer the best fit in terms of budget, location, lifestyle and health care needs.” Tim and his team arrange facility tours, accompany clients on these tours, and perhaps most importantly, serve as their clients’ advocate throughout the process. The goal, Tim said, is to help his clients find the answers they need to make the best possible decision for themselves and their loved ones. “We’re proud of our reputation within the senior community and the local senior care industry,” said Tim. “We believe we’ve earned that reputation by truly working to serve the best interests of our clients and their families.” For more information about Senior Placement Services, call Tim Meehan at 205-913-3902, or visit www.seniorplacementservicesllc.com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SENIORS

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 19

A GRAND OLD BIRTHDAY SALUTE FOR COL. COOPER

Services you can Trust: Meal preparation in home • Light Housekeeping / Laundry Reliable Transportation • Errands / Shopping • 24 Hour Companionship services Medication Reminders • Rehab / Therapy Follow-up Personalized Care Program

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

VETERAN OWNED! 20+ years caring for patients with Alzheimer's, Dementia, Multiple Sclerosis & Parkinson's, Rehab, Hospice, and various other physical and mental disabilities. Professional, Compassionate, Dependable, and Flexible. CPR/First Aid trained, Non-Smokers, current Immunizations and pets OK. Available for 4/6/8/10/12/24-hour shifts or vacation and weekend only. WE'RE NOT JUST SITTERS, WE'RE CAREGIVERS!!! *Professional non-medical in-home assistance for all ages. *Licensed and Bonded. *References supplied upon request. *Rates based upon need.

Contact our team to find out how we can care for your loved one. A drive-thru birthday celebration in honor of Vestavia Hills resident Ret. Col. Carl Cooper’s 101st birthday was hosted by friends and family on March 18 at Shades Mountain Baptist Church. A native of Chilton County, Cooper served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He was also the first principal of Mountain Brook Junior High School. Family members with Col. Cooper on his big day were, from left, Trevor Fant, J Danny Cooper and Charles Cooper.

205-587-8894

earthangelsinhomec.wixsite.com/earthangelin-homeca

20 • Thursday, March 25, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

Hoover City Schools Recognizes 2021 Finley Award Winners

Millard Williams

Originally from Carbondale, Pennsylvania, Williams’ family came south in 1959 due to the plentiful construction opportunities in Mississippi. After graduating high school, Williams enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he was in weapons support and served on three aircraft carriers. He served for four years on active duty and two in the reserves before transitioning into civilian life. He spent nearly 30 years working with AT&T, starting at the top of a telephone pole and working his way down to a manager position in the marketing department. After substitute teaching at Spain Park High School for almost 10 years, Williams decided to go back to school and obtained a master’s degree from Samford University in 2016. He then joined the staff at Spain Park and now

Among the 150 Finley Character Award winners recognized were: left, Gabrielle Taylor (center) with Cathy Edwards and Jackie Taylor. Right, Nayu Yokomukai (center) with her parents, Nakako and Taku Yokomukai.

Crest Elementary School, then Bumpus Middle School and is now in his senior year at Hoover High School. Carter has been part of DECA and served as the junior class president. He is a member of the varsity basketball team and business academy.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

The 26th annual Finley Awards was hosted by Hoover City Schools at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex’s Finley Center on March 18, recognizing this year’s three Finley Award winners as well as 150 Finley Character Award winners. Each year, the Robert O. Finley Committee for Character Education awards its highest honor – The Finley Award – to two graduating seniors and one Hoover City Schools employee. Finley refers to longtime W.A. Berry High School coach Bob Finley, a man known for integrity and good character, who passed away in 1994. The three Finley Award recipients are Spain Park High School Credit Recovery Instructor Millard “Buzz” Williams, Spain Park High School senior Gage Hughes and Hoover High School senior Colby Carter. Additionally, students at each grade level earn Finley Character Awards. This year, the committee named 150 character award winners.

Finley Award winners, from left, Hoover High School senior Colby Carter, Spain Park High School Credit Recovery Instructor Millard Williams and Spain Park High School senior Gage Hughes.

works in credit recovery for grades 9-12. In his personal time, he serves as a chaplain for Helena Boy Scout Troop 2 and teaches leadership training courses for the Boy Scouts. Williams has been married to his strong supporter, Carol, for 48 years. The two have six children, 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Gage Hughes

Hughes is the son of Jason and Lesley Hughes. He attended elementary school at Shades Mountain Elementary, attended Berry Middle School and is now in his graduating year at Spain Park. At Spain Park, he has played on the football team and wrestled for all four years. Hughes has lived in Hoover his whole life, going to Shades Mountain Elementary, Berry

Middle School and now Spain Park High School. In addition to athletics, Hughes participated in Habitat for Humanity. He has been a member of the National Honor Society and is a member of the Latin National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society and Social Studies Honor Society. He also is on the Hoover City Schools Foundation Student Board and volunteers at Mountain Top Community Church, where he serves as a small group leader for the fourth and fifth grade. Upon graduation, he hopes to attend Auburn University and become a veterinarian.

Colby Carter

Carter is the son of Brent and Jill Carter and attended South Shades

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Outside of school, Carter has been part of the Riverchase United Methodist Church youth group and a member of Pro One Basketball. After graduating, Carter will attend Berry College in Rome, Georgia, where he will be playing basketball.

OTM Students Named Presidential Scholar Candidates The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recently identified this year’s candidates for its Presidential Scholars recognition. The program was established in 1964 to recognize some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. Since then, it has been extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts, as well as ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, more than 4,500 candidates are identified for the component of the program that focuses on academic achievement, which is based on high SAT or ACT scores. Candidates have the opportunity to become U.S. Presidential Scholars based on various paths of accomplishment and submission of a candidacy application. Candidates are evaluated by a review committee using essays, self-assessments, secondary school reports and transcripts. Students recognized as candidates in the Over the Mountain area are: The Altamont School: Amelia Neiman. Homewood High School: Madeleine Garrity, Patrick Harris, Gabriel Kertesz and M. Hugh Williams. Hoover High School: Cullen M. Blanton, Luke Clark and Ria Shah. Mountain Brook High School: Margaret Doyle, Theodore Feig, Ellis Hamilton, Laurel Hand, Ethan Shunnarah, Theodore Simonton and Brooke Smith. Oak Mountain High School: Roshni Datta and Caitlyn White. Spain Park High School: Kruthika Dheeravath, Adam Ebrahim, Uzma Issa, Zane Peacock and Duncan Selle. Vestavia Hills High School: Katy Chen, Jason Han, Joshua Kaiser, Esther Lee, Anushka Patel, Hanna Sha, Dylan Shi, Alex Stern, Ethan Wavra and Siyu Zhou.

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Homewood Schools Names New Director of Academic Programs and Services Homewood City Schools assistant principal in Alabaster. He announced on March 17 that Dr. John joined the Homewood system in 2010 Lowry will become the school sysas Shades Cahaba’s assistant principal tem’s director of academic programs for instruction. and services effective July 1. While at Shades Cahaba, Lowry For the past eight years, Lowry helped build and implement the has been Shades Cahaba Elementary school’s character education program School principal. He has to provide a strong school more than 19 years of expeculture of respect and rience in education. responsibility. “Dr. Lowry has proven Shades Cahaba has been to be an outstanding adminnamed a National School of istrator and a wonderful Character and a national leader,” HCS Blue Ribbon School under Superintendent Justin Lowry’s leadership. Hefner said. “He has a Lowry received his wealth of expertise and bachelor’s degree in eleexperience, and I’m pleased mentary education from the Dr. John Lowry he will continue to serve University of Alabama at the students and families in Birmingham and his masHomewood.” ter’s and specialist degree in educaAs director of academic programs tional leadership from the University and services, Lowry will work directof Montevallo. Lowry earned his docly with the HCS director of instructorate degree from Samford tion to enhance instructional programs University, where he is an adjunct and services for Homewood students. professor. His primary responsibilities will Hefner said Lowry will remain at include curricular programming, fedShades Cahaba through the remainder eral and state programs and budgets, of the school year. HCS hopes to and academic intervention programs, name the school’s new principal before summer break begins. and he will assist with development “We are dedicated to finding a of instructional programs. leader that will continue to make “It has been my privilege to serve Shades Cahaba an excellent place for the students, staff and families of our students and staff just as Dr. Shades Cahaba,” Lowry said. Lowry has done for many years,” Lowry began his career as a third Hefner said. grade teacher and later became an

SCHOOLS

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 21

Rocky Ridge Elementary Administrator Named State Assistant Principal of the Year

In an assembly on March 17, Rocky Ridge Elementary School Assistant Principal Aqila Malpass was named Assistant Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators. Malpass has been assistant principal at Rocky Ridge for the past four years, and she has been an educator for 17 years, previously working as math coach at Shades Mountain Elementary School. Malpass is a Howard University graduate who is working on her doctorate in educational leadership at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Rocky Ridge Elementary’s principal, Dr. Dilhani Uswatte, described Malpass as a “beacon of inspiration.” Like all administrators, she wears a variety of hats but puts a great focus into being an instructional leader, she said. Malpass oversees the instructional leadership team, assessing current practices and looking for ways to improve. Her efforts helped the school earn International STEM accreditation and raise its grade on the Alabama State Report Card by 6 percentage points in the past few years, according to a statement from the school. She also forged a new program called Families as Partners in Education, which supports parents, especially during the challenges set by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Malpass has to be one of the most incredible educators I know on this planet,” Uswatte said. “She inspires and motivates so many people from students, to teachers, to parents. She truly is a beacon of inspiration for all of us.” Malpass has helped the school grow socially and emotionally, according to the statement. One of the ways she has done that was through the creation of the “Hallway of Diversity,” which is an area in the school filled with objects to celebrate diversity. In the fall of 2020, two Rocky Ridge Elementary students lost their lives in a car accident. To honor them, Malpass created the “Pure Goodness Club.” The mission

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Rocky Ridge Elementary School principal, Dr. Dilhani Uswatte, left, with Aqila Malpass who was named Assistant Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Elementary School Administrators.

of the club is to make the world a better place through kind thoughts, words and actions. A school statement said the club played a vital role in helping to heal the grieving school and community. Malpass said the award is a tremendous honor because it is a recognition for a passion that runs deep for her. “I am always trying to learn something new and get better at something,” Malpass said in the statement. “It is a public acknowledgement of the pride and joy that I have on a daily basis, whether I am working on something pleasant or unpleasant. This represents the manifestation of how much I love what I do.” She noted that she is committed to making everyone their own success story by learning and getting better each day.

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Athletic Dressback Getting Her Kicks in for Vestavia Hills Girls Soccer Team

Back to the Court

When school resumed in the fall, Dressback the soccer player became Dressback the basketball player. She had played basketball in middle school at Pizitz but decided to give it up once she got to high school to concentrate solely on soccer. But her best friend, Rebels senior forward Josie Edwards, persuaded Dressback to return to the court.

Overlapping Seasons

As Vestavia Hills made its deep run in the basketball postseason, Dressback was forced to miss the start of her senior soccer season. She wanted to go back and forth, but she wasn’t allowed. “I definitely wanted to play both, but they wouldn’t let me because school rules won’t let you be involved in two varsity sports at the same time,” Dressback said. “I was disappointed, but I understand because of the risk of injury playing two sports at the same time.” Dressback missed a handful of soccer games. “I don’t know the exact number, but it was more than I wanted to,” she said.

Next Level

A midfielder, Dressback had been more of a defender earlier in her high school career, but this season she’s an attacking midfielder for the Rebels.

Once the basketball season was over, Dressback joined the soccer team the next day for practice. Soccer is her first love. She started playing when she was 3 because her dad, Shane Dressback, is a soccer coach. “I grew up in the sport,” she said. She has been playing club soccer for Alabama FC 03 ECNL for several years. A midfielder, Dressback had been more of a defender earlier in her high school career, but this season she’s an attacking midfielder for the Rebels. “I get up the field a lot more,” Dressback said. “It’s really nice.” Vestavia Hills coach Brigid Meadow said Dressback is versatile enough to play any position on the field. “She’s one of our best athletes,” Meadow said. “She’s always been a center back, but I put her close to attacking because she’s such a force. She can do anything.” Dressback scored a goal in a 3-0

victory against Hewitt on March 9 but was sidelined after contracting COVID. “I didn’t feel that bad, not like my parents who both had it and felt really bad,” Dressback said. “I had to quarantine, and it was so hard to not be able to practice and play.” Dressback missed only one game and returned to action last Friday, scoring the Rebels’ only goal on an assist from senior forward Riley Vicinanzo in a 1-0 win over Oak Mountain that improved the Rebels’ record to 11-1. “I was very excited to get to play

Dressback would like to end her high school soccer career with another state championship before she heads to the University of Houston on a soccer scholarship. She said she chose Houston for a variety of reasons. “When I went to visit Houston, I really liked the campus, the team culture and the coaches. Plus, it’s a research institute and I plan to major in kinesiology and hope to get in medical school.” Houston head coach Diego Bocanegra was glad to land Dressback. “Kaylee is another great addition that will add some depth and versatility to our defensive midfield as well as our back line as a center-back,” Bocanegra said at the time of her signing. “She is strong in the air and in the tackle, she can quickly switch the point of attack and even score goals from distance because of her ability to strike the ball. She is a phenomenally hard worker, and I expect her to transition very quickly to the college game.” Dressback dreams of playing professionally one day and then becoming a trauma surgeon. “I tore my meniscus my freshman year and had to have surgery,” Dressback said. “I had to go through physical therapy and got interested in sports medicine.”

New Podcast From Andrews Sports Medicine Focuses on Victory Over Injury Andrews Sports Medicine has launched a new podcast about sports injuries and how to overcome them. Dr. Michael K. Ryan, orthopaedic surgeon with the practice, is host of the Victory Over Injury podcast. Dr. James Andrews, renowned sports medicine doctor, “Sports fans often right, is interviewed by Dr. Michael Ryan, for the first focus on injuries only podcast of “Victory Over Injury.” when they occur: key roles on the teams that focus on the concern when a favorite player returning athletes to health,” Ryan suffers an on-field injury or the postcontinued. game news conference when a coach Dr. James Andrews, renowned announces the crushing news of a sports medicine doctor, is the guest season-ending injury,” Ryan said in a on the first podcast, which was statement from the practice. released mid-February. The premiere “But for the athlete, it’s the episode provides listeners with beginning of a new challenge to insight, experience and knowledge overcome the injury and return to gained by Andrews during his sixcompetition, or even normal life. decade career treating athletes and With Victory Over Injury, we peel training other surgeons. back the layers of injury, delivering New episodes of Victory Over Injury in-depth conversations with some of will be released throughout the year. the world’s most-respected sports To listen and subscribe to the series, medicine doctors, physical therapists, visit Apple Podcasts, Deezer, Player athletic trainers, sports psychologists, FM, Spotify and Stitcher. coaches and players who all play

Photo courtesy Andrews Sports Medicine

The past year has been something of a roller coaster ride for Vestavia Hills senior Kaylee Dressback. It began last March when schools closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Alabama High School Athletic Association was forced to cancel the remainder of its spring sports seasons. Dressback, a standout soccer player for the Rebels, was thoroughly disappointed. The Rebels were seeking their third consecutive Class 7A championship. They had gone undefeated in 2019 with a 23-0-0 record and were tabbed the No 1 team nationally in the USA Today and MaxPreps rankings. The Rebels also had established a new state record with 29 consecutive wins. The streak reached 43 in a row when they began the 2020 season 14-0, before it was snapped in a 4-0 loss to Oak Mountain on March 12. It was the last game the Rebels played in 2020. “I was devastated,” Dressback said about the season ending because of COVID. “I felt we had a chance to win state again. But we weren’t the only ones. Everybody was devastated because we wanted to get through the season.”

“I enjoyed playing basketball,” Dressback said. “I went to a ton of games last season to watch Josie and I saw how much I missed it. Josie convinced me to play again. The coaches found out I had played in middle school and were looking for another player for the team.” Vestavia Hills girls basketball coach John David Smelser was glad to have the 5-foot-10 Dressback on the team. “She comes off the bench and guards and rebounds. She helps us,” Smelser said during the season. Dressback helped the Rebels reach the Class 7A Northeast Regional final, but they suffered a heartbreaking 48-46 loss to Hewitt-Trussville on a last-second shot, finishing with a 30-4 record, one win shy of reaching the Final Four. “I was very disappointed the way the season ended,” Dressback said. “We faced a lot of adversity with the pandemic, and we overcame a lot. I was proud to be a part of it.”

again,” she said. Vestavia Hills is off this week because of spring break. The Rebels are scheduled to play their next game March 31 at Thompson.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 25, 2021 • 23

SPORTS

BOYS TEAM Crawford. “I do not think the memory of that game will ever go away,” Crawford said, “but I am thankful we were in that position. We had a great year with all the wins and the time we spent in the locker room together as teammates. You cannot overlook those things.” Crawford surpassed 1,000 points for his career on Jan. 22, when he scored a career-high 38 points in an 87-62 victory against Gadsden City. But he doesn’t consider himself just a scorer. “I think I can do a little of everything,” Crawford said. “I try do whatever the team needs in some way, shape or form.” Crawford played for the Alabama All-stars in the 31st AlabamaMississippi Classic on March 12 in Montgomery. He scored five points, grabbed two rebounds and had two assists in 10 minutes of action as Mississippi won 93-91. Crawford will take his game to the next level. He is being recruited by several NCAA Division I colleges, including Troy, Southern Miss, Marshall, American University, High Point and Air Force. “I’ve got to figure out the one that’s best for me,” Crawford said. Crawford is one of two Jags to make the All-OTM team. Junior cen-

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

From page 24

Vestavia Hills sophomore guard Win Miller is a member of the 2021 AllOTM Boys Basketball Team. Class 6A state champion Mountain Brook had senior guard Bo Barber and senior forward Rayven Turner (above) voted to the team.

Oak Mountain landed three players on the team: senior forward Noah Young, junior center Will Shaver (above) and junior guard Wilder Evers.

POY Cam Crawford is one of two Jags to make the All-OTM team. Junior center Colin Turner (above) is the other.

ter Colin Turner is the other. Class 7A state champion Oak Mountain landed three players on the team: senior forward Noah Young, junior center Will Shaver and junior guard Wilder Evers. Class 6A state champion Mountain Brook had senior guard Bo Barber and senior forward Rayven Turner voted to the team.

Rounding out the squad are Vestavia Hills sophomore guard Win Miller, Hoover senior guard D.J. Fairley and Briarwood senior guard Landon Nuyt.

Mountain Brook’s Tyler Davis also receiving votes. Love guided Oak Mountain to the first state championship in school history, finishing with a 24-9 record. “It’s very humbling and I am very honored with the award because there are a lot of good coaches in our area,” Love said. “I am not sure I deserve it, but it’s much appreciated.”

Love gave credit to his players and coaching staff for what the Eagles accomplished this season. “Stuff like coach of the year awards is a combination of having players of high character and talent and a good coaching staff who make it all come together,” he said. “We sized our (championship) rings the other day and it was so awesome and fun. I am glad to have that opportunity to do that with my kids and coaches. It’s moments like that that make you realize how special it is to be state champions.”

he wasn’t going to let it detract from the Rebels’ phenomenal season. “We had goals and aspirations to play in the Final Four, but the loss didn’t take away what we did all year,” he said. “I’ve been part of a lot of teams, but I don’t think I have

ever been part of a team as special as this group. “Our coaching staff was top of the line and our players loved each other and played for each other. When you have something like that, it makes it special.”

Coach of the Year

Oak Mountain’s Chris Love was tabbed the 2021 OTM Boys Basketball Coach of the Year, with

GIRLS TEAM From page 24

WORK HARD

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

taking over games. “She is not a selfish player, but we told her she needed to be more selfish to help the team win,” Johnson said. “She plays point guard, but we had to get her to understand that we needed her to score more. She wound up leading us in scoring and assists.” Kelly has been on the varsity since the eighth grade and was on Hoover’s 2019 championship team. “I was nervous when I first joined the team, but I told myself they pulled me up for a reason,” Kelly said. “I tried to make an impact. I was blessed to be pulled up and be part of a championship team.” Kelly plays the game with boundless energy and passion. Right after the Lady Bucs’ season ended she rejoined her AAU team, FBC United. “I love basketball,” Kelly said. “It never stops for me.” Kelly is one of four Hoover players voted to the All-OTM team. The other Lady Bucs are senior guard Jada Knight, junior forward Aniya Hubbard and sophomore center Kristen McMillian. Vestavia Hills landed three players on the team, junior guard Emma Smith and senior forwards Alison Stubbs and Josie Edwards. Spain Park had two players chosen, senior guard Avery Masdon and sophomore forward Haley Russell.

POY Reniya Kelly is one of four Hoover players voted to the All-OTM team. The other Lady Bucs are senior guard Jada Knight, junior forward Aniya Hubbard (above) and sophomore center Kristen McMillian.

Two freshmen round out the squad, Oak Mountain forward Raegan Whitaker and Mountain Brook forward Emma Stearns.

Coach of the Year

Vestavia Hills’ John David Smelser was voted the 2021 OTM Girls Basketball Coach of the Year.

Vestavia Hills landed three players on the team, junior guard Emma Smith (above) and senior forwards Alison Stubbs and Josie Edwards.

Smelser guided the Rebels to a 30-4 record, but the season ended with a heartbreaking 48-46 loss to Hewitt-Trussville on a last-second shot in the Class 7A Northeast Regional championship game. “That one is going to stay with me for awhile,” Smelser said. Vestavia Hills had beaten Hewitt three times during the regular season. Despite the ending, Smelser said

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New podcast from Andrews Sports Medicine focuses on victory over injury. Page 22

SPORTS Thursday, March 25, 2021 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Athletic Dressback getting her kicks in for Vestavia Hills girls soccer team. Page 22

2021 OTMJ ALL-OTM HIGH SCHOOL BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS GIRLS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

BOYS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

am Crawford wanted to play basketball so badly when he was a small boy that his mom fudged on his age so he could. “I was 3 years old and the league in Trussville said you had to be 4 to be able to play. So when my mom registered me, she said I was 4,” Crawford said with a laugh while recalling the story. Thus began a journey that culminated this season with the Spain Park senior being named the 2021 Over The Mountain Journal’s Boys Basketball Player of the Year in a vote of Over the Mountain coaches. “That’s awesome,” Crawford said. “I appreciate it. We had a really fun season. We were able to get the program back on track. We won the area championship for the first time in five years, and we were the regional champions for the first time in five years.” Crawford, a 6-foot-4 guard, averaged 15.7 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game while leading Spain Park to a 27-7 record and a berth in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A Final Four. “I thought he had an outstanding season,” Spain Park coach Chris Laatsch said. “He was a guy who would (do) whatever we needed that night. If we needed him to rebound and defend the other team’s best player, he would do that, and on nights we needed him to score and set up his teammates, he would be that. His versatility to do so many things made him very valuable.” Additionally, Laatsch said, “He was also a great leader. He motivated his teammates and worked hard.” Spain Park’s season ended with a 57-56 semifinal loss in double overtime to Enterprise on a putback at the buzzer at Bartow Arena. The heartbreaking outcome still gnaws at See BOYS TEAM, page 23

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

Lady Bucs’ Kelly Completes Redemption Season With Player of the Year Honor By Rubin E. Grant

Cam Crawford will take his game to the next level. He is being recruited by several NCAA Division I colleges, including Troy, Southern Miss, Marshall, American University, High Point and Air Force.

2021 ALL-OTM GIRLS TEAM

2021 ALL-OTM BOYS TEAM

PRESENTED BY

Guards Reniya Kelly, 5-5, So., Hoover Emma Smith, 5-7, Jr., Vestavia Hills Jada Knight, 5-4, Sr., Hoover Avery Masdon, 5-5, Sr., Spain Park

Guards Cam Crawford, 6-4, Sr., Spain Park Win Miller, 6-3, So., Vestavia Hills Bo Barber, 5-10, Sr., Mountain Brook D.J. Fairley, 6-2, Sr., Hoover Wilder Evers, 6-2, Jr., Oak Mountain Landon Nuyt, 6-0, Sr., Briarwood

Forwards Aniya Hubbard, 5-9, Jr., Hoover Haley Russell, 5-9, So., Spain Park Alison Stubbs, 5-9, Sr., Vestavia Hills Josie Edwards, 5-8, Sr., Vestavia Hills Raegan Whitaker, 5-7., Fr., Oak Mountain Emma Stearns, 5-7, Fr., Mountain Brook Centers Kristen McMillan, 6-1, So., Hoover

Forwards Rayven Turner, 6-6, Sr., Mountain Brook Noah Young, 6-5, Sr., Oak Mountain Centers Will Shaver, 6-11, Jr., Oak Mountain Colin Turner, 6-9, Jr., Spain Park

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Player of the Year: Reniya Kelly, Hoover Coach of the Year: John David Smelser, Vestavia Hills

Player of the Year: Cam Crawford, Spain Park Coach of the Year: Chris Love, Oak Mountain

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Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Versatile Crawford Helps Put Spain Park Back on Track and Earns Top Player Honor

Hoover sophomore guard and team co-captain Reniya Kelly averaged 15.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.4 steals and 3.0 assists for the season as the Lady Bucs finished 32-1.

erhaps no one on the Hoover girls basketball team took the Lady Bucs’ narrow 47-44 loss to Spain Park in the 2020 Class 7A championship game harder than Reniya Kelly. This season, Kelly wanted to make sure Hoover wouldn’t have another disheartening end to their season. The sophomore guard and team co-captain played like someone on a mission throughout the season. It was never more evident than in the Class 7A championship game when Kelly scored 24 points, made 10 of 11 free throw attempts, pulled down seven rebounds and had two steals to earn MVP honors as Hoover routed Hewitt-Trussville 61-37 to claim the title at Bartow Arena. “It was very devastating when we lost by three points in the championship game last year,” Kelly said. “This time I wanted a blowout to redeem myself and the team. We played very well.” Hoover coach Krystle Johnson said Kelly played with a different mindset. “Her dad put up a picture of the second-place trophy from last year in her room, so she had plenty of motivation,” Johnson said. “The closer we got to avenging the loss last year, she turned it up a notch. In the championship game, she played like she was saying, ‘We’re not going to lose today.’” Kelly averaged 15.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.4 steals and 3.0 assists for the season as the Lady Bucs finished 32-1. She was selected as the 2021 Over The Mountain Journal Girls Basketball Player of the Year in a vote of Over the Mountain coaches. “That’s crazy,” Kelly said. “It just shows the hard work is paying off.” Johnson was glad to see Kelly have a breakout season. She and the other coaches had urged Kelly to start See GIRLS TEAM, page 23

3.25.21

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