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THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2020

Photo by Hank Spencer

Reigning over the event was King James Hugh Miller III and Queen Eleanor Claire Martin.

Le Roi et La Reine Beaux Arts Krewe Crowns King and Queen at 53rd Annual Ball

C

elebrating the season, the 53rd annual Beaux Arts Krewe Ball was held Feb. 21 at Boutwell Auditorium and featured a Mardi Gras masquerade theme.

For the past 53 years, the ball has served

as a fundraiser for the Krewe Acquisition Fund, which has enabled the Birmingham Museum of Art to spend more than $1 million to purchase important works of art.

See KREWE BALL, page 12

Only the freshest for St. Patrick's Day!

PIGGLY WIGGLY, LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

BY PEOPLE YOU KNOW.

SPORTS

2 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

Inside

Murphy’s Law

I STEPING DOWN Homewood Superintendent to Retire After 29 Years in Education PAGE 6

ON THE RUN Hoover Teacher to Run London Marathon 2020, Raise Funds for Autism Research PAGE 8

SPRING FASHION Local shop owners discuss trends and what’s in store for spring PAGE 20

FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD Local 39 Offers Favorite Foods, Cocktails at New Restaurant on Oxmoor Road PAGE 22

ABOUT TOWN 4 NEWS 6 LIFE 8 SOCIAL 12 WEDDINGS 19

FASHION 20 FOOD 22 HOME 24 SCHOOL 29 SPORTS 32

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

March 5, 2020 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Emily Williams, Sam Prickett Photographer: Jordan Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd Vol. 29, No. 14

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2019 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.

Color Me Chronic

tried to let it go. Really, I did. of order.

I had spent the better part of You’d think it would be a simple January going through closets and task, but we ran into a host of obstacles. drawers, getting rid of things I didn’t First of all, there were only five cardneed and organizing those I did. There’s board sleeves, when even the most basic just something about opening up a door box of crayons comes with eight disand seeing everything laid out in order tinct colors. Not only that, but one of that makes my shoulders relax. the sleeves was larger than the other And then, it was time to fly out to four. Was the company trying to send me over the edge?

California to visit my grandchildren.

Then, we had a host of placement Being the grandmother that I am, I, of issues. Cadet blue was really more of a course, had to arrive bearing gifts — gray. Brick red seemed more at home for my grandson, an X-wing fighter Sue Murphy with the browns. Both apricot and peach Lego kit, and for my granddaughter, the were a toss up for yellow and brown biggest box of crayons I had ever seen. and orange. A half hour later (we I was excited about the X-wing fightwere very thorough) my daughter er because I love Legos and Star and I finally finished, satisfied except Wars, but I was even more excited for the black, white, and metallic about the crayons. There were 120 in Now, while we gold that had to bunk with the purall and the box was ringed with a were doing our ples because that was the only space row of vertical crayon drawings, each color giving way to a slightly obsessive sorting, my left.

Now, while we were doing our different shade. They even threw in a granddaughter had obsessive sorting, my granddaughter sharpener. It was an organized person’s dream. been busily creating. had been busily creating. As I reluctantly closed my crayon box lid, she It was such a good gift, however, presented me with a multimedia masthat my granddaughter already had terpiece, glue still wet, that included one, but it was as yet unopened, so crayon shavings she had fashioned we sat down to open the boxes with her new sharpener. I was appropriately oohing and together. When I lifted the lid, I was shocked to see that aahing until I realized that she had taken her new box of the crayons were not standing at beautiful rainbow attention but lying flat in plain cardboard sleeves, and the col- 120 crayons, peeled off a number of wrappers, and put them through the shredder. ors were all mixed up. I sat there staring at the chaotic I was proud and aghast at the same time, aghast at the mishmash of color, thinking, “Why?” When they had the violation of the brand new crayons, but proud that she opportunity for rainbow perfection, why? was able to see the crayons for what they truly were: It was a struggle for me, but I was determined not to simply the means to put your ideas on paper. say anything about the blatant disregard for all things I’m still working on that. When I got home, I bought perfect, until my daughter walked by and said, “Ooh, that’s not right.” (Apparently, the OCD genes run deep in myself a 120 pack and organized them until my shoulders relaxed once again. Letting go? Successive approxiour family.) And so, that is how my daughter and I came to set about organizing 120 crayons into some semblance mations, my friend, successive approximations.

Over the Mountain Views

OTM Moms Favorite Parade Moms Club of Birmingham’s Over the Mountain chapter president Rachel Phillips, with daughter Hannah, celebrated Fat Tuesday at the club’s ninth annual Kid’s Mardi Gras Parade, held Feb. 25 in Homewood’s Central Park.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 3

ABOUT TOWN

ARC Realty and H2 Real Estate are joining forces to take the Birmingham real estate market to new heights. Both young

companies, H2 has become the biggest player in downtown condominium developments, while ARC Realty has grown to be the largest privately owned brokerage in the state. This new partnership will broaden their impact on the local real estate industry and use their inherent Birmingham-ness to continue to serve their customers.

These ingredients

make Birmingham tick and no one knows that better than RealtorsÂŽ. These things inspired Carter & Scott Hughes to found H2 Real Estate and it is something they have in common with Beau Bevis, President of ARC Realty. So much so that the relationship commonalities between the Hughes brothers and Bevis stretch far beyond the professional. They grew up together. They are a Birmingham Story.

With H2’s reputation as a leading sales brokerage of downtown condos and neighborhoods, this merger provides ARC a stronger foothold in these markets. The ARC Realty infrastructure gives the RealtorsŽ of H2 tremendous reach, as well as a robust marketing and back office support team. “We’ve been talking about partnering on projects for a long time now. It wasn’t until recently that our conversations got serious and we really looked at ‘What can we do that benefits both ARC and H2?’ How can we help each other?� Bevis explained recently.

That relationship, and others like it, is what originally inspired the founders of ARC Realty – A Relationship Company. The founders continue to bring a personal touch and develop relationships between the community, the company, and their agents. These values run deep within ARC, H2, and Birmingham. “Working together is something we’ve talked about for years,� agreed Carter Hughes.

“We know that H2 and ARC can complement one another and broaden the exposure for our agents and enhance our relationships with developers. This is a win-win.�

ARC will take over the day to day interactions with developers and agents while H2 will retain control of the leasing side of H2 Real Estate. After the merger, H2 will continue its operations with multifamily acquisition, ownership, and management, including their current portfolio of over 1,800 units in the Southside, Highland Park, Forest Park, and Avondale.

H2 is also working on a 28-unit townhome development on the Rotary Trail called Avenue A, in partnership

with The Dobbins Group. The Lynlee Hughes Team is the listing agent. “I’m excited to see what this merger will do to better support our agents,� Lynlee Hughes said as she explained how she’s looking forward to the changes coming in this new year. In addition to being a part of the Hughes family, Lynlee is also a Birmingham native and atop-producing multi-million dollar real estate agent.

The Lynlee Hughes Team currently represents five new construction developments downtown totaling over $50 million in listing volume in addition to being the #1 ranked RealtorÂŽ in the downtown market from 20142019 with a sales volume exceeding $20 million.

A Relationship Company

arcrealtyco.com

4 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

MAR 5 - MAR 19

Cameron Askew and Brendon Haiks at last year’s Taste of Teal Gala.

Thurs., March 5

Sat., March 7 Birmingham Wine 10k

What: Emma Coburn, 2017 World Champion and 2016 Rio Olympic bronze medalist, will return to Birmingham for the USATF-certified point-to-point net downhill course.

When: 7 a.m., 10k start Where: Patriot Park start line, Lakeshore Plaza finish Website: runsignup.com

Patton Creek Art Festival

What: Shop for original fine art and original master crafts and talk to the artists at this free festival. Food trucks will be on site. When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Where: 4445 Creekside Ave., Hoover Website: “Patton Creek Art Festival” Facebook page

22nd Annual Hoover Arbor Day Celebration

What: The Hoover Beautification Board presents a community-wide celebration, featuring free trees for Hoover residents, a ceremonial tree planting and ISA Certified Arborists on site to answer tree related questions and more. When: 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Where: Aldridge Gardens Website: hooveral.org

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Birmingham Botanical Gardens 2020 Spencer Lecture

What: An evening with Betty Montgomery, author of “Hydrangeas: How to Grow, Cultivate and Enjoy” and more. A book signing will follow the free lecture. Books available for purchase at Leaf & Petal. Registration required. When: Reception, 5:30 p.m., Hodges Room; talk, 6 p.m.

Where: Linn-Henley Lecture Hall Website: bbgardens.org

TASTE OF TEAL GALA | MARCH 7

What: The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation presents its annual fundraiser to benefit the foundation and the research it supports in ovarian cancer. The event features cocktails, food, music, live and silent auctions and casino games. When: 6 p.m. Where: Regions Field Website: thinkoflaura.org

Chili Cook-Off

What: The Exceptional Foundation presents its largest fundraiser of the year. The event includes all the chili your can eat, beverages and a kid zone. When: 10:30 a.m.3 p.m. Where: Macy’s parking lot, Brookwood Village Website: exceptionalfoundation.org

Casino Royale

What: The Vestavia Hills Library Foundation presents its annual fundraising gala, where guest will enjoy food, wine and beer, casino games, a silent auction and more.

When: 7-10 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest Website: vhlibraryfoundation.org

Tues., March 10 “Rapunzel and the Rabbit”

One Starry Night

What: The Assistance League of Birmingham presents its spring gala featuring dinner, dancing and auctions.Proceeds benefit Operation Literacy, Operation School Bell and Prime Time Treasures.

When: 5:30 p.m. Where: The Club Website: assistanceleaguebhm.org

Sips for Strays

What: Enjoy food, drinks and shopping in memory of Megan Montgomery, a dedicated and founding member of the GBHS YP Board. When: 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Where: Cahaba Brewing Co. Website: gbhs.org

March 12 and 13 Annie Moses Band

What: This talented ensemble of Julliard-trained siblings features an eclectic blend of folk, classical and traditional arrangements. When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Hoover Public Library, Library Theatre Website: hooverlibrary.org

Fri., March 13 Book Signing and Portfolio Show What: Homewood Public Library presents a meet and greet of world renowned authors and illustrators with books available for purchase on site. When: 5-6:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Public Library, Large Auditorium Website: homewood. libnet.info

Schoolhouse Rock

What: Cornerstone Schools’ junior joard hosts the 15th annual adult only fundraiser featuring live music from Just a Few Cats, silent auction, event giveaways, cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. When: 7-11 p.m. Where: Regions Field Website: csalabama. org

Festival Puts New Human Rights-Centered Works in Front of Early Audiences Red Mountain Theatre Company is holding its third annual Human Rights New Works Festival March 12-14 at the RMTC Cabaret Theatre.

The festival brings in writers and performers to test their works in font of live audiences and refine them. It focuses on diverse works built around human rights. This year, the festival has added deaf performance

“Romeo & Juliet”

What: Alabama Ballet along with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents an all-time favorite classical ballet based on Shakespeare’s tragedy. When: March 13 and 14, 7:30-9:30 p.m.; March 14 and 15, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Where: BJCC Concert Hall Website: alabamaballet.org

Kiwanis Club Pancake Day

Thurs., March 12 What: Weimaraner Rescue of the South presents its annual gala featuring a silent auction, appetizers, beer and wine. All proceeds go to the care of weimaraners in need. When: 4-7 p.m. Where: Gabrella Manor Website: weimrescue.com

March 13-15

Sat., March 14

What: Emmet O’Neal Library hosts Birmingham Children’s Theatre featuring a production and light dinner. When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Emmet O’Neal Library, Community Meeting Room Website: eolib.org

Gray Ghost Gala | March 7

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

artist Joshua Castille as artistic adviser.

Another goal of the festival is to “challenge not only how you see art but how you hear it,” according to a statement from the theater.

This year the festival will present two play readings, a storytelling event, a performance and a video presentation and discussion.

“We’re seeking to inspire conversation and community among the audience that experiences these works. We want them to be moved, engaged and entertained over the course of the weekend – it’s often a tall order,” said RMTC Executive Director Keith Cromwell.

Festival details and tickets are available at rmtchumanrights.org.

What: The Homewood-Mountain Brook Kiwanis Club hosts its annual fundraiser featuring all-you-can-eat pancakes, a silent auction, door prizes and a kids zone. When: 7 a.m.12:30 p.m. Where: The Exceptional Foundation Website: homewoodmtbrook-al.kiwanisone.org

Greeenwise Village 2 Village Run What: Annual 10k run features a 7.5k option. An after party at the finish line includes mimosas, live bands, carnival games, a kids area, refreshments, messages and more.

When: 7:30 a.m. 10k start Where: 2525 Lane Park Road Website: runsignup.com

Pink Palace Casino Night

What: The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama hosts a casino night featuring Vegas-style gaming, hors d’oeuvres, complimentary beer and wine (cash bar available) and live music. When: 7-10:30 p.m. Where: Soireé Event Gallery Website: bcrfa. networkforgood.com.

Sun., March 15 Three Choirs United in Song

What: The Birmingham Boys and Girls choirs join with the Sozo Children’s Choir. Experience cultural Ugandan singing and dancing along with selections by the BBC and BGC. When: 7-8:30 p.m. Where: Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church Website: birminghamboyschoir.org

Thurs., March 19 Boy Scout American Values Luncheon

What: Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw will be keynote speaker at a luncheon raising funds to help provide a scouting experience for inner city youth.

When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: BJCC Website: “Boy Scout American Values Luncheon” Facebook page

March 20 and 22 “Cinderella”

What: Opera Birmingham along with the Alabama Symphony bring to life Massenet’s enchanting French opera.

A pre-show chat with the director and a special guest is available before each show. When: March 20, 7:30 p.m.; March 22, 2:30 p.m. Where: Samford University Wright Center Website: alabamasymphony.org

Sat., March 7 Shamrock Shindig

What: The Arc of Central Alabama’s eighth annual fundraiser features food, drinks, live music, a signature balloon drop and prizes to include a 7-day Orange Beach getaway and more. When: 6:309:30 p.m. Where: Haven Website: arcofcentralalabama.org

Thurs., March 12 Irish Flag Raising and the Great Irish Toast

What: Five Points South kicks off St. Patrick’s Day with bag pipes, an announcement of the parade marshall, an Irish blessing and a procession to Brennan’s Irish Pub for the toast. When: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Chick-Fil-A flag pole in Five Points Website: stpatsfivepoints.com

Fri., March 13 St. Patrick’s Day Dinner

What: The Birmingham Irish Cultural Society presents its 40th annual dinner on behalf of Kid One Transport. Enjoy traditional Irish food, dancing, music and more. When: 7-10 p.m. Where: Inverness Country Club Website: stpatsfivepoints.com

Sat., March 14 Tour de Brewers XVI

What: This roughly 11K charity run/ ride/brewery crawl supports the Dannon Project and combines a run with tastings of local Birmingham brews. Raffle, live music and after party to follow. When: Registration, 8:30; ride, 11 a.m. Where: Tin Roof Birmingham Website: runsignup.com

36th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

What: Wear green and enjoy the annual parade, led by the Ian Sturrock Memorial Pipe Band. Come early for kids activities, live music and brunch or stay late for lunch, dinner or a drink. When: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; parade, 1:30 p.m. Where: Check the website for events and locations.

Website: stpatsfivepoints.com

St. Patricks Day Bash

What: Enjoy beer, food, music by DJ Mark AD and three sets from Hannaward Pass at this free event.

When: noon-10 p.m. Where: Avondale Brewing Co. Website: avondalebrewing.com

March 14-15 Birmingham Hammerfest Fueled by Bolt24

What: An amateur and professional cycling event featuring, Lil’ Shamrock fun ride for kids to decorate their bikes and tricycles, a dog parade, best-dressed contests, food trucks and more. When: check the website for events and times Where: Pepper Place Website:

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 5

ABOUT TOWN

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NEWS

6 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Photo courtesy Homewood City Schools

Homewood Superintendent to Retire After 29 Years in Education

Homewood City School’s superintendent Dr. Bill Cleveland with Delta, a Shades Cahaba Elementary school facility dog.

Dr. Bill Cleveland, Homewood City Schools’ longest-serving superintendent with 12 years in that job, is retiring June 30.

“I chose education as my career in large part because of the positive experiences I enjoyed as a student in Homewood City Schools,” Cleveland said in a statement from the school system. “It has been a privilege and honor to serve a school system that I love and one that has given so much to me and my family. I only hope that I have given half as much to this wonderful institution.”

Cleveland has worked in education for 29 years and has been Homewood’s superintendent for the past 12 years. He joined the Homewood School System in 2004 as principal of Homewood Middle School, and later he went on to become assistant superintendent for business operations.

“Twenty-eight years of my life, more than half my life, have been associated with Homewood City Schools,” Cleveland said, “twelve as a student and sixteen as a principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent.

Each step of the way has proven to be better than I could have imagined.”

Although Cleveland became superintendent during statewide proration and a national recession, he focused on providing resources directly to the schools to ensure they had the

Soccer Boost

tools they needed to help all students reach their potential.

Cleveland knew that flexible learning spaces and facilities equipped with state-of-the-art resources were needed to accommodate a growing student population. This summer, construction will be completed on a $55 million project that is focused on student growth.

Cleveland has served under six state superintendents during his time as Homewood’s superintendent.

Under Cleveland’s leadership, the Homewood School System continued to rise as one of the state’s best and one of the nation’s top districts.

HCS has seen many accomplishments, including: Best High School by U.S. News & World Report, National School of Character Award, a Best School District in Alabama, State Wellness Initiative awards, District with the Best Teachers in Alabama,100 Best Communities for Music Education, and State Department of Education Awards.

“This is a wonderful community that values children and education. For more than 16 years, I have had the incredible opportunity to serve Homewood, and I couldn’t be prouder of our Patriots,” Cleveland said.

Cleveland plans to join Lean Frog Business Solutions as the vice president of sales and

operations, and he will remain a Homewood resident.

“I know we will continue to see great things from our schools,” he said. “We have so many strong leaders, and Homewood is fortunate to have outstanding teachers. I have great confidence that our schools will continue in excellence.”

HCS Board of Education President Charlie Douthit thanked Cleveland for his dedication to the students of Homewood.

“I certainly appreciate his leadership and the culture he has created and maintained within the Homewood system, both from a student perspective as well as an employee perspective. He has exemplified a love for people as he has connected well with the students and the faculty,” Douthit said.

“While this is a bittersweet day for the Homewood City Schools family, I think I speak for the board when I say we have full confidence in the remaining staff and faculty to continue to carry out the mission of Homewood City Schools – to educate and empower all of our students to maximize their unique potential. I am thankful for Dr. Cleveland’s steadfast leadership and love he has shown our schools and community for the last 16 years.”

—Virginia Martin

For two weekends this month, teams from around the Southeast will head to the Birmingham-metro area to participate in the Red Diamond Classic.

That soccer tournament, which is expected to have a $6.2 million impact on the Birmingham-metro economy, is one of the largest single events organized by the Birmingham

‘Typically, we bring in teams from all over the Southeast and beyond.

We usually hit about 10 or 11 states that participate in the event.’

United Soccer Association, but organizers say their efforts can be seen throughout the year.

BUSA, the largest soccer club in the state, was formed in 2006 after the merger of the Mountain Brook Soccer Club and American Jets Soccer Club.

Roughly 8,000 school-aged children enroll in the program annually, split evenly between the spring and fall seasons.

That consistent success, said BUSA Executive Director Andrew Brower, is because the club is easy to find.

“One of the things that makes us unique is that we are situated in multiple strategic areas, including Mountain Brook, Inverness, Chelsea and Alabaster, and then we have a lot of other pockets in and around Vestavia, Homewood, Crestwood and different areas of north Shelby County that allow us to have a big sphere of influence in the soccer community,” he said.

BUSA offers recreational programs for children from 3 years old to 19. Starting at age 9, kids have the option to enter into BUSA’s academy program, which prepares them to begin playing competitively at age 12.

“We have multiple layers of competitive offerings, including playing in the Alabama Soccer Association’s state league,” Brower said. “We offer everything. You can be a senior in high school and still be playing rec soccer, lower-, mid- or high-level competitive soccer. We’ve got an offering for every education level and age group.” BUSA also offers soccer camps throughout the year.

Some students even receive BUSA’s help after they age out of the program, thanks to the club’s scholarship program. Since 2006, Brower

According to BUSA Executive Director Andrew Brower, above, the Red Diamond Classic is expected to have a $6.2 million impact on the Birmingham-metro economy.

Service Projects

Photo courtesy BUSA

By Sam Prickett

Journal Photo by Jordan Wald

Two Soccer Tournaments This Month Expected to Draw People From Almost a Dozen States

said, BUSA has sent 500 players to college on soccer scholarships. “Right now in our 2020 class, we have almost 50 kids that are going on to play college soccer at the next level,” he said. “Last year, we had close to 60, so we’ve had two really good years in a row.’

The club regularly organizes college identification clinics, which allow players to interact with a slew of soccer programs from schools around the Southeast. These clinics typically feature about 25 soccer pro-

grams as opposed to 50 or 60 programs for girls.

Because of Title IX, Brower said, “There are far more programs, funding and scholarship availability on the female side than the men’s side.”

On the girls side, the clinics generate an attendance of about 220 players, compared to 100 to 150 attendees on the boys side.

“It’s a hard sellout, usually, with 40 to 50 people on the waiting list,” he said.

BUSA also works to give back to the community, most notably through its “BUSA Serves” day every July.

Each year features a different philanthropic approach. In 2019, each of BUSA’s competitive teams organized and executed their own service project.

“We wanted them to take ownership, to leave their own mark, so we let them design their own projects” Brower said. “Some of those included cleaning up elderly people’s houses, placing flags at a veteran’s cemetery in Montevallo and cleaning up schools.”

The year before that, the club all worked together on a single project: a gift drive “for the entire patient load of Children’s Hospital,” Brower said.

“That year, there were 237 patients in Children’s Hospital. We made 275 gift bags, each worth about $250. It See SOCCER, page 7

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCCER From page 6

included age-appropriate activities for the kids that were in the hospitals, as well as gas and food gift cards for the parents … . That was a pretty cool investment that our families and membership made.”

That’s been BUSA’s larger goal overall: to show people the ways in which soccer can give back to the community. For Brower, that includes the Red Diamond Classic and its $6.2 million economic impact, which is part of BUSA’s estimated annual impact of roughly $42 million, according to a 2018 study BUSA chartered from the University of

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 7

NEWS Alabama.

The two tournaments – the boys teams on March 6-8 and the girls March 13-15 – will take place at Mountain Brook’s Rathmell Sports Park, the Hoover Met, Shelby County’s Sports Blast Soccer Complex and Heardmont Park, also in Shelby County. The economic impact will come from visitors visiting the Birmingham metro area for the tournament and spending money on hotel rooms, food and shopping, Brower said.

“Typically, we bring in teams from all over the Southeast and beyond,” he said. “We usually hit about 10 or 11 states that participate in the event … . We fill up hotels everywhere (in Birmingham). Just for this event, I

think we use about 35 different hotels, which is pretty crazy to think about.”

It’s something Brower hopes will make people take notice of BUSA and its overall role in the Birmingham

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Daryl Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 ctober This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the October 31.19 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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metro area.

“Sometimes people don’t really understand the sphere of what we are and what we do,” he said. “It’s important for us to show how sports can affect the economy in a positive way,

and I think that’s something we’ve been pretty excited about for years.”

For more information about the Birmingham United Soccer Association, visit birminghamunited. com.

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The 2020 Census is coming and it's important that you respond.

The Census determines where more than $675 billion in federal funds are directed for schools, healthcare, roads and transportation.

You will receive an invitation to participate in mid-March. You can fill it out online, or by phone.

Your information is not shared with any other agency.

LIFE

8 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

R

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

By Emily Williams

Turning His Life Around

His day-to-day at school is filled with athlet-

Jason Zajac (with his wife and children) spurred by the experience of losing his 56-year-old father to a heart attack, turned to running to reclaim his health.

‘Running has become a major part of my life, and I am grateful for what it has done for me.’

JASON ZAJAC

Photo courtesy Jason Zajac

unning through the streets of London isn’t something that Hoover resident Jason Zajac dreamed about in his youth. It wasn’t until he ran his first marathon in 2018 that the goal began to take shape.

Running is not only a hobby for Zajac, it’s become a way to give back.

While training for the London Marathon 2020 in April, he joined the Organization for Autism Research’s Run for Autism Team. As a member of the team, he has set a fundraising goal of $5,000 for the OAR. “OAR is unique in its focus in applied research; research with a high probability of producing tangible and practical benefits to families dealing with the challenges of autism,” Zajac said, who shares his story on his fundraising page.

In 2018, it was determined by the Centers for Disease Control that approximately one in 59 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

“As a high school teacher, I have seen the effects of the autism spectrum disorder in our students and with the children of co-workers,” he said.

Zajac serves Hoover City Schools as a Health Science Academy teacher and a Fire Science Academy lead teacher at the Riverchase Career Connection Center. He is also an athletic trainer for Spain Park High School.

Though he was active in his youth, Zajac says he was never a great runner. As a high school athlete – participating in mainly baseball but also football and golf – he said running was a task left for conditioning or for punishment.

and I am grateful for what it has done for me.”

Once he was comfortable with the 5K, he took on the 2014 Mercedes Half Marathon. He didn’t love the experience, but as he neared his 40th birthday in 2018, he set a marathon goal.

After running in the 2018 Mercedes

On the Run Hoover Teacher to Run London Marathon 2020, Raise Funds for Autism Research

ics, but seven years ago, he noticed an unhealthy change in his lifestyle.

Rather than continuing that lifestyle, and spurred by the experience of losing his 56-yearold father to a heart attack, he turned to running.

“I struggled to run even 1 mile without stop-

ping,” he said, but with some persistence and training time spent on the treadmill in the Spain Park Athletics Department, he was able to work toward completing a 5K. “The atmosphere was electric, and that is when I fell in love with the sport,” Zajac said.

“Running has become a major part of my life,

Marathon with a time of 4:27, he was inspired to continue and work toward finishing a marathon in under four hours.

He was able to gain a spot in the 2019 Chicago Marathon, held in October, through a lottery system. This time he finished in 3:44:31.

“I have logged a lot of miles since that first 5K, but I never imagined where running could actually take me,” he said.

He said he can feel the positive difference both in his physical shape, having lost more than 60 pounds, and in his mentality. When he sets a goal, he won’t stop until he reaches it.

“I now have a goal to run in all of the six major world marathons,” he said. Those are the Chicago, London, Tokyo, Berlin, New York and Boston marathons.

Having marked off Chicago, and soon to tackle London, Zajac also looks forward to participating in the 2020 New York City Marathon in November.

For the New York marathon, Zanjac will raise money for KultureCity. He will pursue the same $5,000 fundraising goal, and, should all go well, will be halfway finished with his “big six” marathon goal come December.

Help for Burn Victims and Firefighters Celebrating pediatric burn survivors and local firefighters, the Ryan Shines Burn Foundation hosted its first gala, “A Walk with Heroes,” on Feb. 20 at The Club.

In 2001, Mountain Brook residents Ron and Dawn Hirn lost their 7-year-old son, Ryan, in an automobile fire. The Hirns and their then-2year-old son, Tyler, survived the fire with burns to more than 27% of their bodies.

The Hirns, along with Tyler and their sons Trenton and Colton, created the Ryan Shines Burn Foundation in memory of Ryan. The foundation provides pediatric burn survivors with resources to rebuild their lives, including education and burn camp scholarships, as well as create a network of mental and physical health support for firefighters.

In attendance at the event were pediatric burn survivors and firefighters from across the state, travelling from as far north as Huntsville to as far south as Mobile.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Inaugural “A Walk with Heroes” Raises Funds for Pediatric Burn Patients, Firefighters

Above, Larry Morgan, Colton Hirn, Nancy Morgan and Ron Hirn. Below, left, Chelsea Massey and Jennifer Davis. Right, Peggy Stough and Allison Chambliss.

From left, Dawn Hirn, Mountain Brook Fire Chief Chris Mullins, Gina Harris and Molly Wallace.

During a seated dinner, the foundation honored Ben and Luanne Russell with the Ryan Hirn Excellence Award, which serves to recognize those who have shown a commitment to children or local first responders.

Keynote speaker for the event was A.J. Martin of the Fire College.

Helping with organization of the evening were the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce, Lila Graves, Jennifer Davis and Tracy McClain.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 9

LIFE

National Psoriasis Foundation Recognizes Krell for Volunteerism

By Emily Williams This April, Total Skin & Beauty’s Dr. James M. Krell will be honored not only for his dedication to treating patients with psoriatic disease, but for using his knowledge in medicine to give back to the Birmingham community.

Krill will be honored as National Psoriasis Foundation’s 2020 Health Professional Volunteer of the Year on April 3 at the foundation’s signature fundraising event “Pstamp Out Psoriatic Disease,” to be held at B&A Warehouse.

“Volunteerism has always been important in my life,” he said. “When I was a young child, both my parents were big volunteers and I remember working with my mother and siblings on projects that raised money for a variety of causes.”

He and his wife have passed that same dedication to their three children, adding volunteer projects to all of their family trips and regularly dedicating time to helping out at local soup kitchens. Even international trips – to Costa Rica, Laos, Senegal and Israel – have included at least a halfday to a day of volunteering.

Krell’s experiences while giving back often stick with him.

As a founding board member of Ramah Darom, a Jewish summer camp in North Georgia, Krell spent a week each summer as camp doctor

Advances in Treating Psoriasis for 18 years When Krell graduated from “The most memorable and greatest learning experience is when our camp Harvard Medical School in 1989, he was one of about five or six in his was infected extensively with the class who planned to specialize in derH1N1 ‘swine flu’ in 2009,” he said. matology.

“We learned much from our need to It wasn’t a “hugely quarantine the infected popular” field at the time, children and still run a but over the past 15 years productive camp for them. or so, it has become far It was crazy, but it all more competitive. worked out fine and the Many are attracted to virus turned out not to be the good working hours so bad after all.” and high-income areas – Krell also is a past such as cosmetics, Krell president of the N.E. said. He, on the other hand, Miles Jewish Day School, is among the minority who Temple Beth El, and the Dr. James M. Krell are more excited about the Temple Beth El general medical side of the Foundation boards, as field. well as serving on the boards of At Total Skin, one of Krell’s focusJewish Family Services and the es is psoriasis, a very common skin Levite Jewish Community Center. condition that causes skin cells to mulVolunteerism is absolutely crucial, tiply faster than normal – resulting in Krell said. As such, the recent recogdry, itchy patches visible on the skin. nition from the NPF is dear to him.

The disorder affects approximately “I have always raised money for 2% to 3% of the population, according important causes and tried to find to the National Psoriasis Foundation – ways to help my fellow human more than 8 million Americans. beings, either with my time or with During his residency at Emory my financial resources,” he said.

University, Krell treated patients who “Repairing the world – that is how I were hospitalized with moderate to and my family look at life and will severe psoriasis twice a day with ointcontinue to do so.” ments and phototherapy.

Just as he volunteers his time to “There were not very many systemhelp others, he spends his days on the job trying to make the world a bit bet- ic medications to use at that time and all of them, still available today, had, ter for his patients. and still have, side effects related to

their general immunosuppression,” he said.

When Krell moved to Birmingham in 1993, the practice he joined used only a topical cream on psoriasis patients.

“I immediately added a phototherapy unit, one of the safest and most effective treatments at the time for psoriasis patients,” he said.

He then incorporated new psoriasis medications into the practice, and later he delved into clinical trials to introduce new medications to patients.

“Since then, I have done dozens of clinical trials on psoriasis medications and continue to do so today,” he said.

“It is a significant part of my practice.”

In addition to authoring numerous articles, giving lectures and speaking engagements focused on the area of psoriasis, he has been an investigator in multiple phase II, III and IV clinical trials.

“The problem is that there have been several studies, the most recent called the Multinational Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis study, that showed that many of the patients with moderate to severe psoriasis are still being treated with topical therapy only,” Krell said. The study also found that out of 139,000 households across seven countries, 3,400 had a member of the family with psoriasis.

“The medications are so good and safe now, so much so that all patients with moderate to severe psoriasis

should really be treated with systemic medication,” Krell said.

Psoriasis is associated with other conditions such as psoriatic arthritis and depression.

There is a high suicide rate among psoriasis patients, Krell noted.

“It’s no wonder,” he said. “Patients have a widespread disease and for years they see doctors who give them little tubes of cream for widespread psoriasis.

“I have had at least one patient who tried to commit suicide, prior to seeing me,” he said. “And I promised the patient I would be aggressive and clear their psoriasis. That patient did clear up on biologic therapy and stayed clear for years but subsequently died from lymphoma,” which is another disease connected with psoriasis.

There are currently 11 biologic therapies, injections that can often be administered at home, that have revolutionized Krell’s ability to treat his patients. More are on the horizon, but Krell said that even now, he is able to tell a patient that it is likely their psoriasis will clear no matter the severity.

In addition to celebrating Krell, guests at the Pstamp Out Psoriasis event will have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and bingo to learn more about the NPF and its mission to aid efforts to cure psoriatic disease and improve patients’ lives.

For more information, visit npf. donordrive.com.

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10 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

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LIFE

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Young children throughout the community had the opportunity to meet and pose for photos with their favorite princess and superhero characters at Vestavia Hills High School on Feb. 22.

The fourth annual event raised funds for the school’s month-long, student-led fundraiser, Rise, which raises money for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program.

On Feb. 29, the annual Concert for a Cure was hosted at Mountaintop Community Church, featuring a performance by VHHS graduate Walker Burroughs, a former American Idol contestant, and Emma Klein.

Rise students will host the annual Rebel Run 5K and Fun Run next, to be held March 14 at VHHS.

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Journal photos by Jordan Wald

12 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Sandy and Ellie Martin.

Cal and Jeannie Dodson with Katherine and Sam Tortorici.

KREWE BALL From page one

Performances by pages during the presentation were choreographed by Steeple Arts Academy of Dance’s Deanny Coates Hardy and Bee Grover Lewis. The presentation included nine former and current Steeple Arts dance students, including the queen, two princesses, four pages and two trainbearers.

Reigning over the event was King James Hugh Miller III, joined by his wife, Kathy, and Queen Eleanor Claire Martin, escorted by Ryan Jay Mislich.

Presented as Queen Martin’s ladies in waiting were Edith King Amason, with trainbearer Sheard Lovelace Faust; Gunter Morén Crommelin, with trainbearer Henry Tucker Crommelin; Brooke Campbell Holloway, with trainbearer Charlotte Speight Redden; Elizabeth Renneker McMillan, with trainbearer Mary Carolyn Wittichen Anderson; Katherine Hollon Skinner, with trainbearer

Frances Mae Reynolds; and Ann McQueen Whatley with trainbearer Howard Parr Cooper.

Princesses presented included Virginia Bowron Beasley, Mary Frances Bloodworth, Isabel Browning Boyd, Anne Coleman Bradford, Mary Johnson Bradford, Jane Elisabeth Branch, Frances Hardy Bromberg, Margaret Anne Clark, Mary Margaret de la Torre, Marion Shook Dukes, Elizabeth Rose Gillespy, Meredith Lee Goings, Noelle Pratt Haas, Patricia Mae Hammet, Elizabeth Sperling Harvey, Ann Chapman Haynes, Mary Marcella Jones, Ruth Evelyne Wynne Kirkland, Caroline Carter LaMotte, Virginia Forsyth Latham, Nina Elizabeth Law, Mary Elise Nolen, Anne Frances Norris, Sarah Maitland Null, Carol Ann Sandner Phillips, Jane Perry Starling, Emma Bolling Hall Taylor, Barbara Grace Tortorici

Robin and Net Wade.

Gunter and Henry Crommelin with Mabry Crane.

Charlie and BeBe Bugg; Betsy, Jimmy and Brooke Holloway; and Wilson Golden.

Ross Forman, George Wheelock and Alan Baker.

and Carolyn Dickinson Wahlheim.

The king’s dukes included Walter McFarland Beale Jr., James Joseph Bushnell Jr., Joshua Michael Girvin, Charles Kennedy Porter, Roland Thomas Short III, William Lee Thuston, Charles Lawrence Whatley and Turner Butler Williams.

The king’s trainbearers were Alice McNeil Alden, Elizabeth Cartwright Alden, Juliet DeVilliers Alden, Juliet Hamilton Girvin, Margaret Bibb Girvin, Elizabeth

Miller Kenerly, Mary Alton Kenerly, Patrick Brittain Kenerly Jr., James Harper Milam, Katherine Bushnell Milam, Anna Partlow Short and Olivia Grace Short.

The queen’s guards were Jack Dabney Carl, Willis Cobb Hagan III, William James Hereford, Thomas Chambers Joyce Jr., Duncan Young Manley Jr., James Frederick Powell Jr., Thomas Julian Skinner IV and John Roger Smith.

Queen Ellie’s trainbearers were Kathryn Pritchard Allen, Bo Sterling Baker, Jack Standridge Baker, Hunter Mae Fitzgerald, Bradley Maxwell Kuehner, Robert Donovan Kuehner and Jackson William Thomas.

Those serving as pages for the festivities were Mary Carolyn Wittichen Anderson, Kathryn Frances Baker, Lucy Virginia Comer, Juliette Perry Cook, Emma Kathryn Day, Virginia Jeanne Flowers, Clarke Crawford

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Gillespy, Gillian Palmer Goodrich, Susannah Blythe Goodrich, Nancy Ryals Little, Hallsey Bryant Marsh, Riley Elizabeth Mears, Leslie Katharine Mitchell, Ann Caldwell Monk, Elizabeth Parker Owens, Charlotte Speight Redden, Frances Mae Reynolds, Kathryn Bowman Rives, Elizabeth-Anne Donald Robinson, Jackson Monroe Robinson, Rushton Grace Robinson, Caroline Reid Samuels, Elizabeth Gray Schoenvogel, Laura Elizabeth Spann, Mary Beverley Spann, Anne Louise Sullivan, Lillian Rose Sullivan, Hollis Delany Thomasson, Eve Amelia Thuston, Ann Calvert Whatley, Kara Leigh Whitaker, Catherine Jane Woods and Madeline Grey Woods. â?–

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Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 13

Raleigh and Dottie Kent.

Libba Alden, Grace Kenerly, Kathy Miller, Juliette Milam and Libba Williams.

Jack Carl and Mac Beale.

Mary Johnson Bradford, Elizabeth Gillespie and Anne Coleman Radford.

Rosemary Gillespie, Allen Wilbur and Katherine DeBuys.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Journal photos by Jordan Wald

14 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

Nicole McLaughlin, Allison Lowery, Sid Evans and Liz Rhoads.

Grab a Seat

Star Alabama Chefs Gather at the Children’s Table Benefit Some of the state’s most celebrated chefs recently gathered for The Children’s Table, an annual culinary event to benefit patients at Children’s of Alabama.

JJ Eyes Signature dishes, desserts and Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., drinks were served at Meredith Food 205-824-1246, fax Studios during the Feb. 22 event March Featured chefs included Chris Hastings of Hot and Hot Fish Club This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the and Ovenbird Restaurant, Adam March 5, 2020 issue.

Evans of Automatic Seafood and Abhi Sainju of Abhi Eatery + Please make sure all information is correct, Oysters, Bar and Mo:Mo, Benard Tamburello of Vecchia Pizzeria, Geri-Martha including address and phone number!

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In addition to tasting, guests were able to take tours of the studio’s 28 test kitchens, 13 photo and video studios, a prop and styling studio and showcase kitchen and tasting room.

The event raised funds for and boosted awareness of the nutritional needs of patients at Children’s of Alabama. Many patients at Children’s have restricted diets requiring them to learn everything about the food they eat, and many end up developing a strong passion for learning to cook and experiment with recipes.

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Photos courtesy Birmingham Music Club

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Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 15

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The Birmingham Music Guild hosted a 70s-themed party at Mom’s Basement in Avondale on Jan. 30.

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Journal photos by Jordan Wald

16 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

Courtney Johnson, Betsy Bailey, Suelin Joe Schilleci, Candice McKinney and Lauren Sturdivant.

Mending Kids’

HEARTS It’s what we do best.

Our team of more than 250 pediatric professionals is recognized for its excellence in providing world-class cardiac care in an environment best suited to the needs of our patients. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Anna Robin Wignall and every child like our own. l

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Red Noses Make for Smiles Smile-A-Mile Celebrates 28th Annual Red Nose Ball

The 28th annual Red Nose Ball, Smile-A-Mile’s largest and longestrunning fundraiser, took place on Feb. 22 in the BJCC East Hall.

Presented by Cellular Sales Verizon Wireless and Charity Steel, festivities included a silent auction, seated dinner and dancing to live music by the Schmohawks.

A live auction featuring items such as a seven-night stay in Martha’s Vineyard, Diamonds Direct jewelry, a Honda Indy Grand Prix experience and more was presented by auctioneer Guin Robinson.

Host for the evening was Wendy Garner, and the event was coordinated by Smile-A-Mile board Chairman Lee McKinney, immediate past-Chairman Angie Smith and co-Vice Chairs Betsy Bailey and Doug Sutton.

Proceeds from the Red Nose Ball directly support Smile-A-Mile’s year-round programs for children diagnosed with cancer and their families. ❖

Crawford and Stewart Jones with Bevelle and James Worthen.

Brad and Kaye Tompkins with Dennis and Jeanine O’Brien.

Learn how you can help.

Visit www.ChildrensAL.org/heart.

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

Jason and Lauren Kassouf.

Anna and Nicholas Hoppmann.

Scott and Kelley Walton.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 17

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

SOCIAL

Elizabeth Stewart, Lindsay Grant, Kimberly Prewitt and Julie Duck.

Dance to the Music Glenwood Junior Board Turns Up the Volume at A Night Under the Big Top Fundraiser

For its 15th year, the Glenwood Junior Board hosted its circus-themed fundraiser A Night Under the Big Top. This year’s event took place on Feb. 21 at Haven, with more than 700 guests in attendance.

Festivities included a VIP carnival experience, live music from Total A$$ET$, food, complimentary beer and wine and an extensive silent auction. The event is best known for the silent disco, during which guests danced to music from DJ Mark AD that was played through headphones.

The organization of the evening was led by junior board Chairman Tim Hennessey Jr., along with event co-chairs Lauren Hyde and Harold Collins Jr., sponsorship chairs Tommy Brown and Nadav Raviv, VIP chair Alex Merrill and publicity chair Maudrecus Humphrey.

Funds raised by this event directly support children with autism and The Daniel House Program. The program provides diagnosis, treatment, early intervention, education programs and, in some cases, full-time residential care for individuals who need assistance in behavior management, communication skills, social skills and daily living activities to help them increase their independence. ❖

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18 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

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SOCIAL

Behind the Mask

Come See Our Eater Arrivals

ues Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 824-1246

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

The 73rd annual Maskers Valentine Ball was hosted at the Montgomery Country Club in Montgomery on Feb. 8, featuring a number of presentees from the Over the Mountain area.

The Krewe of Maskers was established in 1946. The first Maskers Valentine Ball was hosted in 1948, and celebrations have continued each year to honor the Krewe’s wives, daughters, granddaughters and sweethearts.

This year’s queen was Miss Emma Madison Fox, daughter of Mr. and Mrs James Russell Fox of Vestavia Hills.

Maids of the Court included Miss Emily Braswell Ernest, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allan Cameron Ernest of Montgomery; Miss Emily Wells Kent, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Artis Kent of Montgomery; Miss Virginia Hamilton Limbaugh, daughter of Mr. Dennis Hamilton Limbaugh and Mrs. Elizabeth Davis Limbaugh, who was Maskers Queen of 1986, of Mountain Brook; Miss Elizabeth Rylee Naftel, daughter of

Photos by David Roberson Photography

Over the Mountain Women Reign at 73rd Annual Maskers Valentine Ball

Allison Degweck and Annie Bailey.

Eric and Julie Smith with Wynn and Cindy Echols.

Emma Madison Fox.

Luke and Kathryn Newell with Ashley and Jim Moss.

Shining at Night Virginia Hamilton Limbaugh.

Mr. and Mrs. Conrad D’Arby Naftel of Montgomery; Miss Caroline Leatherbury Sellers, daughter of Justice William Burrell Sellers and Mrs. William Burrell Sellers of Montgomery; and Miss Ann Vivian Spencer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Stevens Skaggs of Montgomery. ❖

Whit and Lauren McGhee.

VHCSF Celebrates Record-Breaking Donation at Annual Dinner & Diamonds

On the heels of delivering its largest donation to date, the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation celebrated the 14th annual Dinner & Diamonds on Feb. 22 at Vestavia Country Club.

A donation of $142,169.55 was presented to the Vestavia Hills City Schools system Feb. 18, funding more than 25 grants.

Tait Stoddard, Natalie Giesen and Louise Walsky.

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Heather Szymela, Shannon Marek, Shelley Anthony and Stephanie Whisenhunt.

Dinner & Diamonds, the foundation’s flagship fundraiser, provided an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the foundation.

The evening, organized and hosted by the VHCSF board, included a seated dinner, as well as live entertainment and both silent and live auctions.

Board members who led the planning were sponsorship chairwomen Christine Dobbs and Missy Armstrong, and auction chairwomen Kellie Box and Ashley Goetz.

Proceeds from the event will fund the foundation’s operating budget, which ensures the foundation has the resources it needs to keep

Jud and Kathryn Stanford.

working in schools and with teachers. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Play Ball

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 19

WEDDINGS/SOCIAL

O’Hear - Hutto

Mr. and Mrs. David Arthur O’Hear of Daphne announce the engagement of their daughter, Kathleen “Callie” Emma O’Hear, to Samuel Porter Hutto, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Porter Hutto Jr. of Homewood.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Dee Davis of Daphne and the late Mr. Charles Davis, as well as the late Mr. James W. O’Hear of Birmingham and the late Jean O’Hear Walters of Mobile.

Miss O’Hear is a 2009 graduate of Daphne High School, where she earned an academic scholarship to attend the University of Southern Mississippi. There, she was a 2013 honor graduate, received a bachelor’s degree in nursing and was on the dean’s list and the president’s list. She is a member of Delta Gamma sorority. Miss O’Hear is a registered neonatal nurse at UAB Hospital.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. William Porter Hutto Sr. of Homewood and the late Dorothy Krueger Wright of Hoover.

Mr. Hutto is a 2009 graduate of Homewood High School and a 2014 graduate of Auburn University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and membership in Tau Beta Pi, the engineering profession’s highest honor. Mr. Hutto is a division project manager of WestRock Corporation, assigned to its corporate headquarters in Atlanta.

The wedding will be May 2 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Homewood.

Proving that rival teams and rival fan bases can work together to achieve a common goal, the Lettermen of the USA charitable organization hosted its second annual “One Yard at a Time Gala” on Feb. 21 at The Club.

The gala, emceed by Hoover City Councilman John Lyda, brought former athletes, coaches and fans of opposing colleges and universities together to unite in support of the organization’s mission.

Honoree for this year’s event was UAB Blazers head football coach Bill Clark and Capt. Gary Mike Rose, a Medal of Honor recipient.

Proceeds raised during the gala will be used to help Lettermen of the USA’s mission to help veterans and former players by providing ADAcompliant home renovations, personal mobility aids, specialized vehicles and funds for medical expenses.

The evening included a seated dinner, live auction led by Christie King and photo and autograph sessions with former University of Alabama and Auburn University players, coaches and military veterans. The posting of the colors was conducted by members of Shades Valley High Schools’ Marine Corps JROTC Color Guard.

Heading up the organization of the gala was founder and board President Darryl Fuhrman, director of operations and board Vice President Desmond Holoman and board secretary Todd Boland.

In attendance were veterans representing service in World War II, the Vietnam War and in Afghanistan, such as Michael Vines, George E. Sims, Danny Yates, David F. Bonwit and retired Lt. Col. Darrell Martin, a former Alabama football player.

Athletes and coaches in attendance included Cornelius Bennett, Chris Gray, Chris Mohr, Ray Perkins, Bobby Humphrey, Brian Cunningham, Richard Shea, Dale Overton, Rob Selby, Steve Trucks and Patrick Sullivan, son of the late Pat Sullivan. ❖

To have OTMJ wedding & engagement forms sent to you, please call Stacie at 205-823-9646.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Former Athletes, Coaches, Veterans Gather to Support Lettermen of the USA

Cornelius Bennett and Elaine Lyda.

Desmond Holoman, Gary Rose, Yvonne Pope and Darryl Fuhrman.

Rhonda and Darrell Martin with Larry Parks and Peyton Ligon.

Shelia and David Denson.

Steve and Stephanie McClinton with Shelley and Mike Shaw.

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FASHION

20 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Fashion Statements

Local Shop Owners Discuss Trends and Show Off What’s In Store for Spring

Bezshan Dolatabadi B. Prince

Beth Keplinger Ryan Reeve

Lisa Ann Muir-Taylor Nations Boutique

Mary Crawford Caliber

JJ Vanche JJ Eyes

TRENDS We are so excited about soft garden floral prints. The store right now looks like a spring landscape with a kaleidoscope of colors. We are also liking the return of the blazer with everything from skirts to track pants with sneakers.

TRENDS We are excited about the arrival of spring and all the color it brings.

TRENDS We are excited about the colors, silhouettes and patterns for spring – all of the bright colors seen on dresses, skirts and tops. We still love the matching sets trend.

COLORS For ladies, classic blue and buttercup yellow are two colors you want to have in your wardrobe for spring.

TRENDS Styles are going really small or really big! The ‘70s and ‘80s styles are making a comeback as well.

COLORS Neons are back, but we will only touch on them because they are a fad. There is a bold pastel palette, as well as brights.

All of this against a background of all white combinations of outfits.

NEW AND NOSTALGIC Fresh styles are pieces with clean architectural lines. There is a return to ‘60s prints and 1980s proportions that are quite nostalgic.

MUST HAVE A Jacket or Duster.

BEACHWEAR Our beautiful Brunella collection, exclusively ours from Italy, is the perfect group for the beach - luxurious linen cover-ups and pieces.

FASHION BUSINESS BEGINNINGS I was a stock boy at Famous Shoe Bar in Homewood.

B. Prince 271 Rele St., Mountain Brook

We are so excited about soft garden floral prints.

COLORS This season, look for bright brights, including “highlighter,” neon, colors.

NEW AND NOSTALGIC Crochets and polka dots will make their appearance, as well as fabrics, prints and styles reminiscent of the ‘70s.

MUST HAVE Skirts, tops and dresses constructed in tiers will freely flow this spring, and don’t be afraid to mix your metals when accessorizing. Platform, flat and wedge sandals will all make their appearance, and look for an updated, more modern thong sandal.

Fashion sneakers continue to reign supreme, especially those with a retro vibe, or those predominantly white with interesting accents. Expect to see reptile prints slithering on a cute flat or wedge, and for a new twist, rattan and woven jute on sandals and soles.

Ryan Reeve 3920 Crosshaven Dr., Vestavia Hills

Crochets and polka dots will make their appearance ...

NEW AND NOSTALGIC Ruching is nostalgic. We have seen this throughout the decades in various styles. Right now, we mainly see it in skirts and statement sleeves on tops. Midi dresses are still fresh in our eyes.

MUST HAVE A bright top with statement sleeves.

BEACHWEAR Cutoffs and fun tops to mix and match with. And a great matching set for dinner one night.

FASHION BIZ BEGINNINGS I worked for a fashion nonprofit in Haiti. I worked hand-in-hand with local artisans to curate designs that would result in paying for their education.

Nations Boutique 2856-B 18th St. S., Homewood

Ruching is nostalgic. We have seen this throughout the decades in various styles.

NEW AND NOSTALGIC Polka dots, lots of pleats and a great denim skirt!

MUST HAVE The classic trench coat is a must for everyone’s closet.

BEACHWEAR A polka-dot bikini, or polka-dot one piece - for those of us that want more coverage.

Caliber 2822 Central Ave., Homewood

Polka dots, lots of pleats and a great denim skirt!

COLORS We are seeing a lot of translucent frames and flash mirrors.

MUST HAVE Ophthalmic frames with a custom clip are back and a must.

BEACHWEAR Large, polarized sunglasses with lots of coverage.

FASHION BUSINESS BEGININGS When I lived in Los Angeles, I worked in the entertainment industry, so I was exposed to great, cutting-edge fashion.

JJ Eyes 2814 18th St. S., Homewood

Styles are going really small or really big! The ‘70s and ‘80s styles are making a comeback as well.

George Jones george (inside Snoozy’s Kids) TRENDS “Highlighter” colors, statement purses and feathers.

COLORS Neon, abstract prints and believe it or not - polka dots!

NEW AND NOSTALGIC Headbands, barrettes and scrunchies are nostalgic. We love the new look of a chunky chain necklace or bracelet in gold or silver.

MUST HAVE A big, bold, colorful statement earring.

BEACHWEAR Our crochet cover-ups take you from the beach or lake straight to dinner. You must have a Turkish towel, and a beach hat with SPF is key to maintaining that youth!

FASHION BUSINESS BEGINNINGS Snoozy’s!

george (inside Snoozy’s Kids) 228 Country Club Park, Mountain Brook

We love the new look of a chunky chain necklace or bracelet in gold or silver.

Katie Faught Applause Dancewear TRENDS We are very excited to see more unique cutouts and mesh inserts in leotards, and more fashionable colors in young children’s dancewear.

COLORS We are seeing a lot of jewel tones, mesh inserts, cutouts and a continuation of floral prints.

NEW AND NOSTALGIC Some of our best-selling dance wear are the classics.

Short-sleeved leotards, pink tights and leather ballet shoes are a must in every beginner’s closet.

MUST HAVE A great dance bag for storing all those items needed during recital season.

FASHION BUSINESS BEGINNINGS I grew up around dance fashion in my parents’ store. I sold my first leotard at 6 years old, and have had a passion for selling the best dancewear since.

Applause Dancewear 1629 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

I sold my first leotard at six years old and have had a passion for selling the best dancewear since.

Jackson Pruitt vineyard vines TRENDS We are looking forward to versatile items that can go from work to drinks to the beach.

We are also liking the embroidery on some of the items. Men are all about comfort in every situation. Everything comes with some stretch, and is made with the softest fabrics.

COLORS Soft pastels and lots of tropical prints.

NEW AND NOSTALGIC We are taking some of our most favorite items and updating them with new materials and patterns. Our everpopular Shep Shirt now comes in performance fabrics, for the sporty person in your life.

MUST HAVE T-shirts are a must have for Alabama weather, but also our performance line. We have everything from polos to pants to buttondowns that keep you cool and dry.

BEACHWEAR Our bathing suits and our performance t-shirts are UV protected so there is no concern for an embarrassing tan line.

FASHION BUSINESS BEGINNINGS My first job was as a sales associate at vineyard vines Birmingham.

vineyard vines 209 Summit Blvd., Ste. 100, Birmingham

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 21

FASHION

Spring Fashion JOURNAL PHOTOS BY LEE WALLS

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1. Lillian Falkenburg is ready for spring with these neoprene totes, the perfect blend of style and functionality from Greyson. george (inside Snoozy’s Kids, 205-871-2662.

4. Haley Owen is wearing rose, silk top by Mustard Seed, $32; Miss Mee high-rise, crop denim, $64; and gold flipflops by Olukai, $100.

Caliber, 205-917-5800.

2. Jake Owen is wearing grey performance shorts by Oxford, $79; a Rosemont stripe performance polo by Oxford, $98; and brown leather Olukai flipflops, $110. Caliber, 205-9175800

5. Taylor McGill is wearing a Bloch halter leotard in wine, $49, and the Capezio Legacy Tote, $27.

Applause Dancewear, 205-871-7837.

3. Caleigh Coshatt is ready for warmer weather in a floral dress, $108. Nations Boutique, 205637-7967.

6. Dorsey Shamblin is wearing a leopard print rain jacket, $152, paired with an ivory top, $64; jeans, $120; and sandals, $84. Nikki Virciglio is wearing a kimono, $60, with jeans, $134; t-shirt, $25; and sandals, $87. Ryan Reeve, 205-5185010.

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7. Lynn North is wearing a Japanese collection, M. & Kyoko top, $458, and skirt, $528, with shoes by Coclico, $395; a handbag by Jack Gomme, $115; and earrings by Louise Abroms, $65. B. Prince, 205-871-1965.

8. Kenzie Simmler is wearing a Chilmark classic poplin buttondown in White Cap, $78; Palm Beach denim jacket in Medium Indigo, $138; Jamie jean in Conch, $178; and double-pocket North/South tote in Cornflower, $108. Jackson Pruitt is wearing a Mizpah performance woven in Sorbet, $115; striped Edgartown snap-placket Shep shirt in Deep Bay, $98.50; On-The-Go pants in Deep Bay, $125; and a distressed

leather belt in Chocolate Lab, $78. vineyard vines, 205-970-9758.

9. From top: The Breton by Krewe is a modern take on the classic aviator; The signature LaFont frame makes a statement with a classic round silhouette; The Audrey by Oliver Goldsmith is named to tribute the late, great Audrey Hepburn; Discover the latest trend in eye wear with this classic square shape by Tom Ford. JJ Eyes, 205-703-8596.

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FOOD

22 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

For the Neighborhood

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FOODIE NEWS

Local 39 Offers Favorite Foods, Cocktails at New Restaurant on Oxmoor Road

Journal photo by Sam Prickett

your-own” Bloody Mary bar, featuring a variety of pickled Jonathan Sealy lives walking options, and a constant, up-todistance from Local 39 date selection of local beers Homewood, the newly opened on tap. restaurant he owns and operates Local 39 Homewood’s with his wife, Lyndsey. It’s 174 menu is intended to evolve steps from his back door to the over time, but it already fearestaurant, actually; he’s counted. tures a handful of local favor“I walk to work every day,” he ites, thanks to the Sealys’ said. partnership with Mike Wilson The Sealys have lived in and Hunter Lake of Saw’s Homewood’s Edgewood neighBBQ. Local 39’s location preborhood for 10 years, and in that viously was the home of time, they’ve seen a handful of Wilson and Lake’s Saw’s on businesses open and close along the Side, a bar that was a spiOxmoor Road. “I’ve watched all noff of the neighboring barbethe restaurants that have come and cue restaurant. It opened in gone through here,” Jonathan 2018 and closed last year.

Sealy said. “It just seemed like Local 39 will offer a varithey were missing that little bit of ety of Saw’s staples, including love. That’s all they were missthe restaurant’s signature ing.” sweet tea fried chicken sandWith Local 39 Homewood, wich, cheeseburger and hot which opened Jan. 29, the Sealys wings. hope they’ve added that missing “We took the successful A sense of hospitality, Jonathan Sealy said, is inspired by his nearly 20 years ingredient by creating a warm, part of a menu that was working under the nationally recognized chef Frank Stitt at Highlands Bar and already existing and just added inviting, neighborhood-focused establishment – one they hope will Grill in Birmingham. some salads and some seafood feel “like an extension of home.” in there,” Sealy said. “We “There’s not a neighborhood place (in Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham. That mostly kept the (Saw’s on the Side) bar fare Homewood) anymore,” Sealy said. job, which he held until he left in December to idea, but just added a couple of things.”

“Everything’s got a concept, they’ve got craft open Local 39, also greatly shaped his bartendTo emphasize its neighborhood ties, Local cocktails or something else tied in with it. But ing skills, he said.

39 Homewood also leans into the area’s history. you can do all those things and still be a neigh“I’ve always worked in the restaurant busiIt takes its name, for instance, from the number borhood place. My demographic is, I want to hit ness, even through college, but the big point of the Birmingham & Edgewood Electric all the locals. We’re in a great neighborhood in a was Highlands,” he said. “This is not a whiteRailway streetcar that ran along Oxmoor Road great city that’s tied into Birmingham, and basitablecloth place, and it’s more laid-back and has and Broadway Street in the first half of the 20th cally we just want to work on that.” a neighborhood vibe, but I still want to implecentury. A stretch of the streetcar’s tracks, Local 39 Homewood occupies the narrow ment that hospitality, because that’s what I look uncovered and restored in 2018, is visible less storefront at 1006 Oxmoor Road, between Saw’s for. than a block away.

BBQ and Dreamcakes Bakery. It’s a cozy spot, “I may not want a fine-dining experience, So far, Local 39 Homewood has been with exposed-brick walls, a large wooden bar, but I want to go somewhere where they’ve got embraced by the surrounding neighborhood, Sealy said. and dim, atmospheric lighting. a decent selection of wine, bourbon, whiskeys, “This location’s amazing,” he said. “The “We’ve worked with the structure that was vodkas, anything, and just know a little bit window’s full of foot traffic. I watched that here previously,” Sealy said. “This place has about what they’re doing … . And it’s cliché, every day when we were just cleaning up and good bones, and it looks like it’s been here for but being nice is huge.” repainting and doing all of that.” years … . Lighting was a big deal, too.

And though he maintains that craft cocktails Sealy said that, since the restaurant has been Presentation is important. We wanted to be a aren’t the overall focus of Local 39, that doesn’t open, “80% of the people here every night have warm, welcoming place. We want you to feel mean they can’t still serve a mean Oldlike it’s your spot. I want it to feel like a back Fashioned, Sealy said. The bar is a major focus. been locals who live within a mile of here. I definitely think the demographic’s there, and porch.”

“It’s nice, because we have some younger they’re showing support already, so I just hope That sense of hospitality, Sealy said, is people working behind the bar, and I can teach to keep working with this idea and keep the inspired by his nearly 20 years working under them a little bit,” he said. “We help them hone momentum going.” the nationally recognized chef Frank Stitt at their craft.” Plans for the bar include a “make-

File photo

Area Restaurants Named Semifinalists for James Beard Awards

Homewood Chef Timothy Hontzas of Johnny’s Restaurant.

Semifinalists for the 2020 James Beard Awards – often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world” – were announced Feb. 26, and the list includes a few Birminghamarea favorites.

Automatic Seafood & Oysters, which opened in Birmingham’s Lakeview district last year, was recognized as a semifinalist in the cat-

egory of Best New Restaurant, while the Atomic Lounge, in the city’s downtown area, got a nod for its outstanding bar program.

Chef Frank Stitt, whose Highlands Bar and Grill took home the award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2018, might get another chance at an award. His restaurant Chez Fonfon was long-

listed for Outstanding Hospitality.

Homewood Chef Timothy Hontzas of Johnny’s Restaurant also received recognition. He’s named as a semifinalist for best chef in the South.

The list of semifinalists will be winnowed down to a list of finalists on March 25, and the awards will be presented in Chicago on May 4.

File photo

By Sam Prickett

Vestavia Hills Residents to Open Local Pizzeria in Cahaba Heights This spring, chef Terrill Brazelton (pictured above) and his wife, Ashley, will open a new pizza restaurant concept in Cahaba Heights Village, called Troup’s Pizza.

The Brazeltons’ noted that Troup’s menu will feature, “fresh, delicious and unpretentious pizzas, sandwiches and salads.”

This is not the couple’s first foray into restaurant ownership. They previously owned Open Door Cafe in Crestline Park. The couple has lived and raised their children in Vestavia Hills.

Born in Selma and raised in Southern California, Brazelton is a graduate of Auburn University.

While in college, he worked at several popular local restaurants, but working with owner Greg Bradshaw to open a Mellow Mushroom sparked his love of pizza.

After graduating in 1996 and living a brief stint in Nashville, he moved back to Alabama to enroll in culinary school and worked at daniel george restaurant in Mountain Brook Village while studying.

In 2011, he partnered with the Bajalieh brothers to open Slice Pizza and Brewhouse, where he was able to create what he called “chef-inspired pizzas.”

During his seven years with Slice, Brazelton received national acclaim and was featured in a number of articles, videos and local news cooking segments. In 2017, he participated on the Food Network show Guy’s Grocery Games.

He won Birmingham’s Best Pizza six years in a row while with Slice and was voted third-best chef in Birmingham in 2017, behind Frank Stitt and Chris Hastings.

Troup’s Pizza is expected to open in April. For updates, visit the “Troup’s Pizza” Facebook Page.

Real & Rosemary, North Italia Opening at The Summit

Two restaurants are joining the line-up at The Summit.

Real & Rosemary opened its doors earlier this month, Battle Republic will follow suit in the spring, and North Italia will open in the mixed-use center in the fall.

The new Real & Rosemary is the second location of the fast-casual restaurant in Birmingham by owners Jennifer Mims and Nate Carlson. It has taken over the former Zoës Kitchen space next to the AMC Movie Theater.

“When we heard that Zoës Kitchen was closing The Summit location, we jumped on the opportunity,” Mims said. “I started my career working at Zoës Kitchen, and I feel very fortunate to have had such an active role in the growth and expansion of the company.”

After teaming up with Carlson to open the

See FOODIE, page 23

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 23

FOOD

Rehab Reality...

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

by Judy Butler

Allison Mathis and Coosa.

Kendall, Lisa and Holland Warren.

A dessert spread suited for Willy Wonka was served Feb. 8 as the Alabama Wildlife Center hosted its annual Wild About Chocolate fundraiser.

The Valentine’s Day-inspired event was held at the Harbert Center and included live music, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, a live auction and other events. A few of the center’s education-

FOODIE From page 22 first Real & Rosemary location in downtown Homewood in 2016, the duo expanded in 2018 to open Caveat Coffee in a nearby location. A second Real & Rosemary location was opened in Tuscaloosa in 2018 but has been closed since June due to water damage.

Mims and Carlson plan to integrate Caveat Coffee into the Summit location, offering a full-service espresso bar in addition to the restaurant’s full bar and dining areas. Catering also will be a continued part of the brand.

The North Italia restaurant in The Summit will be its first location in Alabama. It serves made-from-scratch Italian dishes, along with beer, wine and cocktails, in a location inspired by the

Dennis Calvert and Lisa Langer.

Wild About Chocolate

Valentine’s Day Goes to the Birds at Annual AWC Fundraiser

relaxed atmosphere of coastal Italian eateries.

The restaurant will occupy 5,378 square feet beside Athleta, according to a statement from property manager Bayer Properties.

Taste of Homewood to Raise Money for Chamber’s Scholarship Fund The 18th annual Taste of Homewood, presented by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, will be held March 19 from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. on the plaza of Rosewood Hall in City Hall at SoHo square.

Featured at the event will be more than 30 Homewood-area restaurants, caterers, bakeries, coffee shops and beverage merchants.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the chamber’s scholarship fund for

Monte and Deborah Barth.

al raptors were among the guests in attendance.

This year’s event was held in honor of the center’s volunteer veterinarians and its partnership with Shelby County.

The Alabama Wildlife Center is Alabama’s oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation facility, caring annually for almost 2,000 wild bird patients from more than 100 species.

local students as well as economic development efforts in the community.

Participating food and beverage vendors will serve samples of some of their dishes, ranging from classic favorites to unique creations.

At the time of publication, participating vendors included 1918 Catering, AlaBev, Ashley Mac’s, Buffalo Rock, Chicken Salad Chick, Cookie Fix, Edible Arrangements, Happy Catering, Interstellar Ginger Beer, Jim ‘N Nicks, Nabeel’s Café & Market, O’Henry’s Coffee, Pastry Art, Piggly Wiggly, Shiki Thai & Sushi, The Shrimp Basket, SoHo Social, SoHo Standard, Taco Mama and Taziki’s Café.

Tickets to the event which include unlimited samples of food, beer and wine, are $30 in advance and $40 at the door. For tickets or more information, visit homewoodchamber. org or call 205-871-5631.

Annual Cajun Cook-Off Brings the Heat to Railroad Park The 10th annual Girls Inc. Cajun Cook-off will be held April 4, featuring family- and pet-friendly festivities alongside a Cajun cooking competition.

Guests can sample Cajun dishes and vote for their favorites.There will be live music and live performances from Girls Inc. participants, showcasing their dance talents.

The event is taking place at Railroad Park. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, and children 12 and under are admitted for free.

All funds raised will benefit Girls Inc. of Central Alabama programs, which inspire local girls to be strong, smart and bold.

For more information, visit girlsinc. org.

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24 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

Charm Makes for Popular Neighborhoods Four OTM Neighborhoods to Consider As the Spring Home Buying Season Kicks Off

hough the uncertainty of presidential election years can often have a dampening effect on the real estate market, that hasn’t been the case for many Over the Mountain communities. The housing market has stayed competitive in 2020, a trend that looks to continue

through the spring, a peak season for the market.

This issue, Over The Mountain Journal is profiling four popular neighborhoods – one each from Mountain Brook, Homewood, Hoover and Verstavia – and showing what those neighborhoods have to offer residents.

The Hollywood, Tanglewood, Cherokee Bend and Riverchase neighborhoods all feature diverse dining and retail options within a short distance of home. They’re also located near some the Over the Mountain community’s superlative schools, making them ideal for families looking for a new home. But, local

Cherokee Bend

Hollywood

By Sam Prickett

Cherokee Bend is a residential Mountain Brook neighborhood between Interstate 459 and Crestline Village. Most of the homes in this neighborhood are single-family units, many built after the opening of Cherokee Bend Elementary School in 1969. The area, once a dense forest, is now home to a handful of nearby parks and walking trails to keep even the most energetic families occupied.

If Hollywood feels like its own tiny town inside the city of Homewood, that’s because it once was. For three years in the last century, from 1926 to 1929, Hollywood existed as its own town before being folded into Homewood.

Its borders – roughly marked by U.S. Highway 31, U.S. Highway 280 and Lakeshore Drive – aren’t all that separates Hollywood from the surrounding city, though. Many of the homes in this neighborhood are built in a Spanish Colonial Architectural style, meant to emulate the then-trendy look of that other Hollywood.

Crestline Village In Cherokee Bend, you’re only a short distance away from Crestline Village, one of Mountain Brook’s central hubs. Crestline’s walkable downtown area features more than 60 local restaurants, bars and shops. You can also visit the excellent Emmet O’Neal Library, which regularly hosts events and programs for patrons of all ages.

Church Street Coffee and Books Part of Crestline Village, this coffee shop features locally roasted Octane Coffee and a wide variety of baked goods. It’s a cozy, quiet place to set up your work laptop or just to relax and read a book. If you don’t have anything to read, this shop offers a curated selection of new books and local favorites for sale.

Alabama Veterans Memorial Park This park, just off I-459’s Liberty Parkway exit, honors those who served in the U.S.’s 20th and 21st century military conflicts, especially the Alabamians who died in those wars. Those soldiers are commemorated in the memorial’s “Hall of Honor,” the walls of which are engraved with more than 11,000 names.

Local Landmark

The Irondale Furnace originally was built to supply pig iron to Confederate forces in the Civil War, staying active for years after the war ended until closing in 1873. The furnace itself is no longer standing, but the 1.34-mile-long Irondale Furnace Trail commemorates the property’s rich history with explanatory plaques and markers.

The dog-friendly trail also includes open areas with benches and a picnic table with a view of the furnace’s ruins.

Photo courtesy Cherokee Bend Elementary

By Sam Prickett

Nearby …

Schools: Top Teachers

Children in the area attend Cherokee Bend Elementary School, which serves about 460 K-6 students. Earlier this year, it received the award for having the best public elementary school teachers in Alabama from niche.com, which also called it the best public elementary school in Jefferson County. From there, students go to Mountain Brook Junior High School and the nearby Mountain Brook High School – the latter was ranked by Newsweek as one of America’s top 100 schools.

ADVICE TO BUYERS

Prospective homebuyers should be aware of the variety of options on offer, said Julie Harris of Ray & Poynor Properties.

“They need to make sure that they ride around and look at the different areas. There are different price ranges in Cherokee Bend for everybody, from the high $300,000s all the way to $1.5 million,” she said. “There’s something for everybody.”

Despite that variety, there’s stiff competition for most houses on the market.

“People just need to be aware that the market is very strong in Cherokee Bend,” said Harris. “When they come in with an offer, it needs to be strong, because there are a lot of other people in the same buyer pool that are looking for the same thing they’re looking for.”

real estate agents say, potential homebuyers should come prepared because most properties in these communities sell quickly.

We also include our annual update on projects in these areas designed to improve homeowners qualtiy of life.

—Sam Prickett

Nearby ...

Piggly Wiggly This neighborhood grocery, on U.S. 31, has a large selection of fresh produce and meat, and the store features an incredible variety of wine and craft beer, with knowledgable staff on-hand to help you pick your new favorites.

Urban Cookhouse/Farm Bowl + Juice Co. These two restaurants share a building in downtown Homewood, just across U.S. 31 from Hollywood. Urban Cookhouse offers a variety of sandwiches, salads and wraps made with locally sourced ingredients. Farm Bowl, meanwhile, features lighter fare, including açai and oatmeal bowls, smoothies and cold-pressed juice.

Over Easy Hollywood comes with a built-in breakfast spot: Over Easy, open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., offers a variety of early-morning staples, including omelets, hash browns, pancakes and grits.

It’s not all just breakfast, either; Over Easy offers lunch sandwiches, including a decadent chicken-and-waffle sandwich, topped with Sriracha honey and powdered sugar.

Schools

Nearby schools include Shades Cahaba Elementary, a 550-student K-5 school that has been ranked the sixth-best public elementary school in Jefferson County by niche.com. Also a short distance away are the Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School and Homewood’s Creative Montessori School.

Local Landmark: Hey Neighbor

Hollywood is just a short distance from the Birmingham Zoo, which houses roughly 250 different species of animals and is home to a variety of events for all ages, including talks by animal experts, holiday festivities for kids and adults and birthday parties for its resident elephants, including Gadze (above).

ADVICE TO BUYERS

“We thought that with the election this year, the market would slow down, but it is not at all,” said LAH Real Estate’s Annalee Bright.

“It’s imperative for buyers to stay on top of everything, to be communicative with their agent. It’s imperative to be preapproved beforehand with a good local lender. That makes a big difference. … If I get a request and the (applicant) isn’t preapproved, I’m not even going to look at it.

There are too many factors that can go into it,” she said. “Things are moving so quickly, and we’re seeing multiple offers on just about everything that’s priced well.”

UPDATES ON QUALITY OF LIFE PROJECTS

Homewood Athletic Complex Allows Athletics Participation to Expand

In its first year of use, the West Homewood Athletic Complex, at Patriot Park, has allowed the city’s Parks and Recreation department to expand its youth sports programming.

At the Parks and Recreation board’s Jan. 9 meeting, board members gave an update on the usage of the facility in its first year.

Chairman Jody Brant said the effect has been See HOMEWOOD, page 25

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

T

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 25

HOME

UPDATES ON QUALITY OF LIFE PROJECTS

Mountain Brook to Upgrade Athletic Complex, Fields to Better Serve Recreation Needs Throughout 2020, the city of Mountain Brook’s Parks and Recreation Department will be working on upgrades to the Mountain Brook Athletic Complex and the athletic fields at Brookwood Forest.

According to Parks and Recreation Department Director Shanda Williams, all of the fields in the city are used to the maximum amount possible.

“We have had a pretty consistent need for more space to accommodate all the sports activity,” Williams said. “We are at the point where small kids are having to be out late in the evenings on school nights just to practice.

“Then when the weather forces us to close the fields, it’s even more hectic to accommodate everyone.”

Williams noted that the city has tried to find available space to create more fields in and around the city, which has been difficult.

“We were able to enter into an agreement with the Jewish Community Center to use their fields part time,” she said. “This has helped alleviate some of the activity and stress on our fields, but it isn’t enough to solve all our issues.”

In light of this struggle, the city has decided to improve the spaces they have and make some of them work for multiple uses.

Working with community member Dick Shea, who will be donating a portion of his time, an access path will be created around two of the ball fields at the athletic complex. The work is projected to be completed sometime in the spring, and it includes removal of a playground that the city plans to rebuild.

“This will give us better access to the back side of the complex with our equipment,” Williams said. “We are hoping this will also provide convenient pedestrian access and serve as an observation point, too.”

Working with Goodwin Mills and Caywood, design improvements will be made to the baseball fields at the complex.

“We would like to install artificial turf on the baseball fields to maximize the use of them and avoid rainouts,” Williams said.

The company will also work on improvements to the Brookwood Forest field, which Williams said the department will keep in natural grass but reconfigure to accommodate multi-use play.

“We are trying to get most of the other field improvements done this summer or fall,” Williams said. “Replacing the playground will come after the access road is done since that project establishes the foundation of the playground, but it will also depend on the timing of the field improvement work.”

HOMEWOOD From page 24

noticeable and the multi-purpose fields and new gyms were an excellent addition to the complex.

The facility includes two gymnasiums and covered batting cages, as well as office and storage space for park maintenance operations.

The project was constructed in tandem with the West Homewood Aquatic Center, came in under budget at $22.1 million dollars and was completed in late April.

When City Services Director Berkley Squires joined the Homewood staff in 2008, his first youth basketball season included more than 120 players.

More than 100 teams signed on for youth basketball this year, said Squires. That included more than 800 players, of which 5% were not Homewood residents.

Athletic Director Jakob Stephens noted that the league was up by 200 participants this year, possibly because Dawson Baptist Church did not have its own teams this year due to low registration.

If the additional basketball courts had not been included in the Patriot Park Athletic Complex, there would have to have been a cap placed on the number of kids who could participate.

– Emily Williams

– Emily Williams

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26 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

HOME

Riverchase

coming years as Hoover officials hope to transition some of the complex into a multi-use, tech-focused “city center.”

By Sam Prickett

Nearby ...

Riverchase Galleria: City Center Riverchase also includes the state’s largest, busiest shopping center.

Tony’s Hot Dogs Despite its name, Tony’s Hot Dogs maintains that its most memorable offering is its 10-ounce hand-pattied cheeseburger. But this familyowned greasy spoon restaurant in the Southgate Shopping Center also offers a variety of sandwiches, breakfast plates – and, of course, plenty of hot dogs. This place draws quite a lunch crowd, though, so come early!

Journal file photo

The 1,800-home community of Riverchase is situated in a prime Birmingham metro-area location – near I-65 and I-459, close to the Riverchase Galleria and Patton Creek, in the heart of Hoover.

The community bills itself as the “oldest planned community” in the state, highlighting its gorgeous landscape and family-friendly atmosphere.

Riverchase is often billed as a haven from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city, but the metropolitan areas are never too far away.

The Galleria complex consists of a two-story, 150-store mall; a 15-story Hyatt Regency hotel; a 14-story office building; and dozens of restaurants and eateries. The Galleria is heading for an exciting future, slated to undergo some major changes in

Schools

Riverchase is contained within the Hoover School System and is zoned for three award-winning schools: Riverchase Elementary School, which was named in 2018 as a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School; Berry Middle School, which was named one of the

The Face of FOO AND YOU

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Best Middle Schools in Alabama by Common Sense Media; and Spain Park High School, which was listed in the Washington Post’s 2015 list of America’s Most Challenging High Schools.

Local Landmark

The 18-hole golf course at the Riverchase Country Club has hosted several major events – the SEC Women’s Championship and the Alabama State Amateur Championship, for example – but golf isn’t the only thing this country club has to offer. There’s a state-of-the-art fitness facility, a pool complex and tennis courts, plus dining venues and social events designed to make the club “an extension of your home,” according to its website.

ADVICE TO BUYERS

“Buyers’ expectations are high and so are sellers’,” RealtySouth’s Kim Rohloff said. “As a buyer, I would just be prepared to give your best offer in the beginning when you write an offer. The market’s competitive and the inventory is low, so really look at something that is going to have good resell value. Look at the location of the home, where the master bedroom is located … . Get all the information you can on a home. How old is the roof, the HVAC, the water heaters?

Investigate.”

UPDATES ON QUALITY OF LIFE PROJECTS

Hoover Met Draws Millions to the Area The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau reported that the total estimated economic impact of the Hoover Met on the Birmingham and Hoover region over the past year has been more than $49 million.

That represents more than $40.8 million in direct spending and more than $8.1 million in indirect spending.

According to City of Hoover Events Manager Erin Colbaugh, “the Hoover Met Complex is a multi-purpose facility that is capable of hosting small meetings or gatherings, as well as large sports tournaments and anything in between.”

The facility hosts large-scale events throughout the year, including the annual Southeastern Conference Baseball Tournament.

In terms of community usage, there have been more than 135,000 local participants. The baseball complex has hosted 18,576 events, including practices, parks and recreation flag football and Hoover High School games.

The multi-purpose fields have played host to the Hoover Soccer Club, Parks and Recreation flag football and the Birmingham Ultimate Disc Association, among other organizations, resulting in more than 42,984 events.

See HOOVER, page 27

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL UPDATES ON QUALITY OF LIFE PROJECTS

Vestavia Hills Prepares for Wald Park Pools to Open in May

By May 25, Vestavia Hills residents and the surrounding community will be able to begin enjoying the fruits of more than two years of planning and labor, resulting in a larger aquatic center for the community.

The community pool facility, closed in July, will re-open by Memorial Day, sporting two pools and a pool pavilion.

Ken Upchurch, project manager for the Wald Park renovations on

HOOVER From page 26

The Finley Center has served as a space for Hoover’s Parks and Recreation Department to host 37,366 volleyball and basketball games. The facility also houses an open gym and walking track for community use, as well as an indoor climbing gym.

“I am a proud Hoover resident that enjoys walking at the indoor track at the Finley Center,” Colbaugh said.

“My daughter loves going to the (climbing gym) as well as the (Met’s) Explore playground and splash pad.

“If someone has not taken the time to visit the complex, I highly suggest taking time to do so.”

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 27

HOME behalf of TCU Consulting Services, presented a more than $9 million budget increase for the Community Spaces project to the City Council first at a Jan. 29 Strategic Planning session, then again at a Feb. 10 City Council meeting. Of that increase, $3.1 million has been added to the pool facility project.

The original plans for the pool facility have drastically changed since they were first presented in 2018, creating a more than $3 million dollar increase for the project’s budget.

According to Upchurch, the plans for the geometry of the larger, competition pool is complicated.

“What they tried to do on the big pool is accommodate everything that

everybody wanted,” he said. The pool will be able to accommodate swim teams, recreation programs and community use for all ages, youth to senior adults.

He added that the plans allow for the big pool to be sectioned in half, allowing two separate community groups to conduct their activities simultaneously.

Another expanded offering will be a second pool, which will be zeroentry and suitable for families with young children.

In addition, Upchurch notes that the new pool house – replacing a bath house – will feature a large deck, providing “not only more spectator

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Natchez Drive Vestavia Hills To: Tricia From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: October This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the October 31.19 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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28 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HOME

By Sam Prickett

is when you realize you’ve found the perfect house and your kids love the neighborhood!

Start your search now at FindThePerfectHouse.com We understand just how important it is to you and your family to find the perfect house. With decades of experience, we have the market knowledge to help you make it happen — even in a tight seller’s market. Trust the over the mountain experts.

The right real estate agents can make all the difference.

Nearby ...

Twisted Root Burger Co. Located just down Rocky Ridge Road, is this gourmet burger restaurant, the Texas-based chain’s only Alabama location. The menu offers a plethora of specialty burgers, many with a Southwestern twist, and an option for “exotic” meats such as buffalo and wagyu beef – and sometimes, lamb, ostrich, camel, beaver and kangaroo burgers.

Schools: Nationally Ranked

Darnell’s Fun Stuff This popular Vestavia retailer, located in Rocky Ridge Plaza, has been providing unique gifts since 1988 and offers women’s and children’s clothing, stationary and personalization services and more.

Another local favorite close by is Continental Florist, a go-to for many in the area.

Tanglewood is zoned for the Vestavia Hills School System, with younger students attending either Vestavia Hills Elementary’s East or Dolly Ridge locations. From there, students can attend Vestavia Hills Pizitz Middle School and Vestavia Hills High School, the latter of which consistently ranks among the best math and debate team programs in the country..

Local Landmark

Vestavia Country Club, below, just north of Tanglewood, has existed since the late 1940s and offers members an 18-hole golf course, 9-hole par 3 course, tennis courts, a fitness center, pools, child care and both casual and formal dining options. In 2017 a $6.5 million project to rebuild the 18-hole golf course put it on Gold Digest’s list of 2018 Best New Courses.

ADVICE TO BUYERS

Photo courtesy Vestavia Country Club

Pure Joy

Tanglewood is one of Vestavia Hills’ most popular neighborhoods, thanks in large part to its strong family appeal.

The highly walkable neighborhood features plenty of large backyards and low-traffic streets. Its houses are affordable, usually ranging from $400,000 to $800,000.

“Most of them fall in the $500,000s, so it meets a lot of people’s budgets who are in Vestavia,” said RealtySouth agent Mike Wald.

“It has a strong appeal; you’ve got some empty-nesters who live there, but it’s primarily attractive to families.”

The Ridge Eat & Drink Also located on Rocky Ridge Road, this restaurant and bar features wings, burgers, hot dogs and tacos. Despite a sign hanging inside urging customers not to tell anyone about the Ridge, the word is out. The Ridge was voted best casual dining and friendly service spot

by Vestavia Hills Magazine.

The Tanglewood housing market is “pretty tight,” Wald said, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to buy there. You just have to come prepared.

“Tanglewood is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Vestavia,” Wald said. “People need to know that they need to be ready to compete when they buy there.” But if you’re willing to put in a little elbow grease, more options will open up.

“If a buyer is willing to do a little bit of work on a house – maybe be willing to paint or redo the floors – they won’t have to compete quite as much,” he said.

Houses with good lots and big backyards sell the quickest, he added.

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From page 27

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space, but a whole outdoor dining facility.”

Upchurch also noted that the scale of the structure was increased shortly after the first presentation to make sure the facility creates more of a “visual impact as you come down Highway 31.”

The pool house itself has expanded in square footage to accommodate enough office space for pool staff, lifeguards and some city staff, with two conference rooms for use by staff as well as community groups, for example, swim teams.

The Parks and Recreation board met in early February to create pool membership rates for the 2020 season.

Those rates are $75 per person, with a $300 family maximum for Vestavia Hills residents; $35 for adults ages 55 and up; and $10 per guest per day.

Registration will open later this spring at a date to be determined.

—Emily Williams

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Tanglewood

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

VHHS We the People Team Celebrates 16th Consecutive State Title

John Carroll Students Excel at State Thespian Competition

Thirteen students represented John Carroll Catholic High School at the 2020 State Thespian Festival, held Feb. 14 and 15 at Vestavia Hills High School.

The event served as a workshop, led by professional thespians from across the country, as well as a competition.

Topics included costuming, playwriting, Bella Smith acting for the camera, improv, dance and stage combat.

Bella Smith competed in the solo musical theater female category and earned a Superior Ranking of 21/24.

Smith will now advance to perform at the International Thespian Festival, to take place in Bloomington, Indiana, this summer.

In addition, senior Maela Banks was awarded a $1,500 scholarship, which is presented to a theater student who does not plan to major in theater or musical theater arts in college.

While interviewing for the scholarship, Banks spoke of her experience performing in a production of “Godspell” at John Carroll three years ago, saying it had connected theater to her Catholic faith and described what that has meant in her life.

VHCSF Presents RecordBreaking Donation to Vestavia Hills Schools

Last month, the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation delivered its largest donation ever to the Vestavia school system.

The total donation of $142,169.55 will be used to help fund more than 25 grants for all eight schools and the system as a whole, according to a release from the foundation’s executive board.

Grants will provide funding for innovative classroom technology and instructional programs, as well as professional learning opportunities for faculty.

During the 2019-2020 funding year, the foundation’s grant money has helped fund equipment for digital

ing 53 communities.

During the finals, students will participate in simulated congressional hearings. Students testify as constitutional experts before panels of judges acting as congressional committees.

The judges score the groups through a performance-based assessment.

Senior team members are Sophie Akhtar, Jake Arnold, Ford Balogh, Carter Dewees, Safa Khan, Kyuna Kim, Jack Lin, Eileen Liu, Shane Mackey, Hailey Mao, William Morrison, Basim Naim, Ram Prattipati, Ben Reynolds, William Seitz, Amariah Thurston, Robby Turner, David Wang and Eric Wang.

Photo courtesy Vestavia Hills High School

In January, the Vestavia Hills High School We the People team secured its 16th consecutive state title following the Alabama We the People competition, held at American Village.

The mock congressional team represented Alabama’s sixth Congressional District, with students competing against three other congressional districts Team members will now advance to represent Alabama in the 33rd We the People national competition, to take place in April at the National Conference Center in Washington, D.C. VHHS students will be among an estimated 1,200 students represent-

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 29

media, kits for learning robotics and coding, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) programming at multiple schools. The foundation also provided funds to support the school system’s ongoing Teacher Leaders Program and summer professional development initiatives.

Since its founding in 1996, the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation has provided more than $1.1 million in gifts to Vestavia Hills City Schools.

Hoover Honors Teachers

Hoover City Schools recently announced its 2019-20 Teachers of the Year.

Kaitlin McPeake has been recognized as the Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Rebecca Besch is Secondary Teacher of the Year.

McPeake, who has taught at the school since 2017, was selected for several reasons, according to a release – most notably for her innovative student learning strategies, rapport-building skills and a continuous commitment to professional development.

At Rocky Ridge, she serves as an Alabama Mentor Teacher, a Head of House system leader and a STEM advocate. She also sponsors several clubs including G.E.M.S. (Girls Engaged

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in Math and Science), Girl Power Run Club and Math Club.

Before working in Hoover City Schools, McPeake taught at West Pensacola Elementary School in Florida and at The Children’s Fresh Air Farm owned by Independent Presbyterian Church of Birmingham during summer.

Kaitlin McPeake Besch, a language arts teacher who has been with Berry Middle School since 2016, was chosen for her command of curriculum, innovative teaching practices and school leadership positions, among other accomplishments.

At Berry, Besch implemented a before-school study group called “Think Tank.” This bi-weekly group provides students opportunities to seek academic help from peers or teachers.

She also has worked with the A+ College Ready Training Academy to train fellow educators and served on Berry Middle School’s Positive Behavior Intervention and Support Team.

Before working in Hoover City Schools, Besch taught at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School in Birmingham as well as in public schools in Louisiana.

The two will now advance to the statelevel Teacher of the Year competition, and winners will be announced later this spring.

In addition, each school in Rebecca Besch the Hoover City Schools system recognized a Teacher of the Year.

Elementary school teachers recognized were Ana Terpo, Bluff Park; Emily Fogleman, Brock’s Gap; Suzanne Dunbar, Deer Valley; Kristina Fowler, Green Valley; Cherry Johnson, Greystone; Stephanie Williams, Gwin; Michele Ross, Riverchase; Sara Thomas, Shades Mountain; Karen Miles, South Shades Crest; and Hannah Johnson, Trace Crossings.

Secondary school teachers recognized were Christy Hall, R.F. Bumpus; Amanda Giles, Simmons; Lisa Smith, Hoover; and Victoria Bye, Spain Park.

Mountain Brook High School student Connor Bowen at Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Discovery Hall Program.

Students Can Live Like a Scientist for the Summer in Sea Lab Program High school students interested in marine science can get a closeup view of what it’s like in the field and in the lab during the summer with Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s Discovery Hall Programs.

Students live on the DISL campus for four weeks while enrolled in the Marine Science High School Course.

Time spent in the classroom sets the students up for lessons in the field.

From salt marsh ecology to deep-sea biology, the students can broaden their appreciation and understanding of the marine environment.

Students work on their own research projects with support from marine educators, counselors and faculty.

They learn how to use the tools of scientists, collect samples, analyze data and troubleshoot, all while earning high school credit.

“This camp will help me down the line,” said Mountain Brook High School student Connor Bowen, who took the course last year. “I learned that no project is going to go well the first time you try. I feel more prepared now to take on a new experiment. I know what things to consider before I even start.”

Some students who take the course return as part of the lab’s University Programs, in which DISL partners with 23 colleges and universities in Alabama to offer undergraduate and graduate courses.

Applications for the course are being accepted through April 2.

Visit disl.edu/dhp to learn more about the course and how to apply.

Athletic, Competitive White Becomes Two-Sport Standout for Homewood

By Rubin E. Grant Homewood senior Maggie White might be a three-time individual state champion in track and field throwing events, but her first love is the sport where love is part of the scoring system.

“I’m definitely a tennis player,” said White, who is going to play tennis in college at UAB. “I started playing tennis when I was 7 or 8 and I played competitively until I was 14. I quit for two years. I had played too much and I got burned out a little.”

Her tennis hiatus began after she finished as the Class 6A No. 1 singles runner-up as a freshman in 2017.

But White missed playing tennis, so she decided to play for the Patriots as a sophomore. This time, she won the Class 6A No. 1 singles title in 2018 and teamed with Dina Zaher to win the No. 1 doubles crown.

Then she stepped away from tennis again and didn’t play for the Patriots as a junior in 2019.

“I came back my sophomore year, but I didn’t play last year because I wanted a longer break,” White said.

“I didn’t play a lot, but I practiced a lot.”

During her first break from tennis, White decided to compete in track.

Homewood track coach Tom Esslinger decided she was best suited

for throwing events – the shot put, discus and javelin.

“I knew she was a great tennis player and I knew how athletic she was,” Esslinger said. “The discus, shot put and javelin are as much about explosiveness than anything and she had the strength, power and explosiveness. It seemed like a natural fit.”

White was a natural in the throwing events. She won the Class 6A indoor shot put titles in 2019 and 2020 and last spring won the Class 6A outdoor discus title with a throw of 118-06.

Despite her success in track, White couldn’t stay off the tennis court. She picked up her racket and started playing again last summer. This spring, she once again is playing for the Patriots, while also continuing to compete in track.

“I do both,” White said. “I just have to balance them out. I have track practice once or twice a week, but I go play tennis every day.”

White enjoys being a two-sport athlete.

“She pours herself into whatever she’s doing,” Esslinger said. “She works hard and she cares about doing things right. She’s a competitor.”

All in the Family

White started playing tennis

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

30 • Thursday, March 5, 2020

Homewood senior Maggie White is going to play tennis in college at UAB.

because of her granddad and two older brothers.

“My granddad always played and he got my older brothers into it, so I wanted to do it, too,” White said.

“My coach told my dad we were pretty talented, but ‘You better watch for your daughter. She’s got real talent.’”

White’s older brother, Ethan, eventually played tennis in high school at Indian Springs. Her other brother, Jackson, became a track athlete and competed in the pole vault at Homewood. Maggie and Jackson were teammates on the Patriots’ track team for one season when Maggie was a freshman and Jackson was senior in 2017.

Last year, Maggie White compet-

ed in each of the throwing events in the state outdoor meet, but because of a freak ankle injury, she will concentrate solely on the shot put this season.

“When I threw the discus in the state outdoor meet last year, I had a hole in the bottom of my shoe that I didn’t know about,” she said. “I took a spin and it just stuck to the ground.

I twisted my ankle pretty bad. It put me in boot for a week-and-a-half.”

Despite the injury, White continued to compete. “They taped it super tight and somehow I won,” she said.

“I had an MRI four months later and I found out I had a fractured heel.”

White has recovered from the heel injury, but with her collegiate future

Relentless Rebels

Vestavia Hills Girls Soccer Team Just Keeps on Winning

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

Junior midfielder-defender Kaylee Dressback is one of five returning starters.

The Energizer Bunny has company. The Vestavia Hills High School girls soccer team just keeps going and going, too.

On the heels of an undefeated 2019 Class 7A championship season (23-0-0), the Rebels have started this season 8-0, extending their streak of consecutive wins without a loss to 37 and breaking the state record of 35 that had been set by Oak Mountain during the 2014-15 seasons.

Vestavia Hills won its final six games of the 2018 season en route to winning the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A state title.

The Rebels players try not to think about the streak, but they can’t help it because it’s right in front of them every time they take the field.

“There definitely is pressure,” junior midfielder-defender Kaylee Dressback said. “The more we get into the season and the more we keep winning, the pressure keeps building. But we try not to let it faze us. We try to take it one game at a time.

“Before each game, we say a prayer and we prepare mentally. We talk about the game and our opponent. We watch a lot of film so we’ll know about the other teams.”

The streak keeps going and going because the Rebels have adopted “Relentless” as their

team mantra, something head coach Brigid Meadow and assistant coach Madison Thompson have instilled.

“Coach Meadow has been good for us having that mindset,” Dressback said. “We have to outwork the other teams, not let them beat us on balls and when they score a goal, to make them work hard for it. Even when we’re playing really good teams who might be better than us, we have to be relentless.”

Relentless Takeovers

In their first eight games this season, the Rebels outscored their opponents 29-1 and recorded seven shutouts. They played at Spain Park on Tuesday and this weekend will compete in the Falcon Fest in Huntsville at Merrimack Soccer Complex.

The Rebels have continued to win this season despite losing six seniors off their 2019 AHSAA championship team that was tabbed the No. 1 team nationally in the USA Today and MaxPreps rankings.

Those departed seniors – Lizzie Hill, who now plays for UAB, Anna Woodson, Anna Grace Darty, Caroline Causey, Catherine Yeilding and Georgia Kamburis – won three state titles in four years.

Vestavia Hills has simply reloaded this season.

“We lost five starters, but the core of the team

in tennis, she doesn’t want to risk an injury while competing in the discus or javelin.

White has played tennis with the Birmingham Tennis Academy and also plays at Levite Jewish Community Center, under the tutelage of Joey Unkenholz, who also played at Homewood and at Jacksonville State.

White has been a consistent fixture in tennisrecruiting.com’s Top 100 for her class, achieving a ranking as high as No. 32 in 2016. She has won at the local, state, national and international level. Some of the more prestigious tournaments she played include the Nationals in San Diego, the Junior Orange Bowl in Miami, and the Easter Bowl in California.

She also coached for the Homewood Tennis Club.

Last August, White advanced to the semifinal round and doubles finals in the Charity Steel Open, held at Birmingham’s Greystone Country Club. That’s when UAB noticed her and decided to offer her a scholarship.

“We are extremely excited to welcome Maggie to our Blazer family,” UAB tennis coach Mark Tjia said in a press release at the time of White’s signing last November. ”She is an elite level athlete who has played elite level tennis in her career.

“We consider ourselves fortunate that she has decided to continue her tennis career as a Blazer. She will help us in singles and doubles with her aggressive style of play and will bring a competitiveness with her that we will benefit from. We can’t wait to get her here.”

is back,” Meadow said. “We have one attacking fullback back and one midfielder back. We have mostly juniors leading our team.”

The Rebels are playing without senior midfielder Izzy Passman, who tore the ACL in her knee in the championship game last year.

“That’s a hard one,” Meadow said of her absence.

Dressback, forward Riley Vicinanzo, defender Cristina Hernandez, defender Grace Ellis and defender Madeline Bunch are five returning starters.

Junior forward Julia Woodruff has moved up from the junior varsity and has scored half of the Rebels’ goals this season. Senior forward Arden Young and junior midfielder Kat Witherington have moved into the starting lineup after being reserves last season.

Freshmen Amanda McFarlin, a midfielder, and Sarah Francis Gilroy, a defender, also have made early contributions. Junior Raleigh Robinson has taken over as the starting goalkeeper.

“We have a little depth, but we still haven’t put it all together,” Meadow said. “I like how we’ve come together, the work ethic and the attitude. They are working hard to do what we ask and they are open to criticism.”

The Rebels are gunning for a three-peat as Class 7A champions.

“Before the season, the coaches asked us to set goals for school, personally and for the soccer season,” Dressback said. “I think everyone had the same goal for the season, to get back to Huntsville and to repeat. We’re pushing so hard to see that goal become a reality.”

Thursday, March 5, 2020 • 31

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPARTANS McMillan tried to give some perspective to why his players took the defeat so hard.

“It wasn’t a high-scoring game, but you witnessed a war,” McMillan said. “I saw people on both sides who would die for their brothers out there.

When you see that, it’s so much bigger than basketball, so much bigger than a trophy. The heart and toughness that our guys played with – and the Lee guys – will be remembered forever.”

Mountain Brook (32-3), which eliminated Lee 59-48 in the semifinals last year, led 21-12 at halftime.

Lee began the third quarter with an 8-0 run to pull within 21-20. The Generals finally tied the score 29-29 on Deyunkrea Lewis’ layup at the end of the quarter.

It was still tied until Lee edged ahead 37-34 on Jamari Smith’s three free throws, the first with 4:14 remaining and second two with 2:27 left.

Twice Mountain Brook got within a point and had a chance to take the lead, but Edward Reed missed a 3-point attempt from the left corner.

After Smith made another free throw to give Lee a 40-38 lead with 18 seconds remaining, the Spartans had a chance to force overtime.

Mountain Brook got what it wanted, but Colby Jones had a 10-foot jumper rim out and Peyton Haley missed on the tip. Lee’s Lewis collected the final rebound as time

Journal photos by Lee Walls

From page 32

Above left, Mountain Brook senior Carter Sobera led the Spartans with 14 points. Above right, Peyton Haley, Sobera and Colby Jones battle a Lee player for the ball. Below, Colby Blackwell drives past a Lee defender.

expired, giving the Generals their first state championship in school history.

“They are so unorthodox on defense,” McMillan said about the Spartans’ end-of-game strategy. “You don’t know what they will do.

Sometimes they trap you, sometimes they play you straight up. We wanted to create space and play. We ran a little slip play and spaced out.

“We had good looks. One rimmed out. Edward had a good look from the corner. No one shied away from pulling the trigger. Give me those guys in life.”

Both teams shot poorly. Mountain

JAGUARS

fouled out and I’m already down a star because my daughter (Camille Chase) had torn her ACL the other night,” Chase said. “Now I’ve got one junior, three freshmen and a sophomore on the court, and the defending 7A champs were pressing down.

We finally got a couple calls, walked down and made some free throws and had just enough to get us over the finish line. Another 30 seconds and I don’t know if the result would’ve been the same.”

important thing to do.

“Throughout the whole year, I’ve been the one that’s had to step up. It was their time to step up and have my back. When it came time, they did it.

You can only thank them and thank God that you have teammates and friends like them.”

Spain Park (32-4) managed to hang on, pulling out a 47-44 victory to claim their second title in three years and avenge a 51-47 overtime loss to Hoover in the 2017 championship game.

After Barker fouled her, Kelly made both free throws to pull the Bucs within 40-36, but the Jags never relinquished the lead.

With Spain Park ahead 42-39, freshman forward Haley Russell collected an offensive rebound and made a layup to extend the lead to 44-39 with 1:09 remaining.

Kelly’s three-point play with 43 seconds remaining pulled the Bucs within 44-42, but Russell sank two clutch free throws with 24 seconds remaining, giving the Jags just enough cushion to claim the title.

“Sarah Ashlee had just come out of the game, so right after that I knew I had to step up,” Russell said. “When I got those two free throws, this was my chance and this was my opportu-

Journal photo by Lee Walls

From page 32

about the Jags beating Bucs to win the title.

“It’s redemption, basically,” Barker said. “We didn’t get to play

Brook was 16 of 44 from the field, 36.4%, and made only 1 of 14 3-point attempts. Carter Sobera led the Spartans with 14 points and Jones, who has signed with Xavier University, had 10 points but was 5 of 14 from the field. Holt Bashinsky finished with only 7 points, going 3 of 12 from the field, including 1 of 9 on 3-pointers.

“I feel like our guys and I really just left it all out there,” Sobera said, “and I think that’s something we can live with.”

Lee shot only 37.5% from the field (15 of 40) and made only 2 of 14 3-pointers. De’marquiese Miles, the MVP, was the only Lee player in double figures, with 12 points.

“They didn’t make a lot of 3s,” McMillan said. “They made one more than us. We could play that game 100 times, and we may make the one more 3 and win.”

Then he added, “I don’t care that we didn’t win the game. We represented our city.”

For Jones, it was a disappointing end to his two-year career at Mountain Brook. He transferred to Mountain Brook from Pinson Valley before his junior year. After the tears had stopped Saturday, he spoke appreciatively of his time with the Spartans.

“I love this team,” Jones said.

“Moving to Mountain Brook last year was the best thing for me. I got progressively better as a player faster, but more than that, it taught me so much about life. The bonds I have with my teammates, now my brothers, will never change.”

Hoover in the state championship (in 2018). Freshman year, we lost to them and this time we beat them. That makes it 10 times better.”

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Bucs’ Performance

Spain Park’s Sarah Ashlee Barker earned MVP honors.

nity.”

Barker finished with 11 points but made only 4 of 20 field goal attempts.

She also had 15 rebounds, six assists, two blocks and two steals, earning MVP honors. Junior Avery Masdon led the Jags with 12 points.

Kelly led Hoover with 23 points, but she made only 6 of 29 shots from the field, including 2 of 10 3-pointers.

She did sink 9 of 11 free throw attempts.

Spain Park basketball coach Mike Chase was relieved his team held on after Barker exited.

“Suddenly our Georgia signee is

The Bucs (31-3) were done in by poor shooting. They shot only 23.2% from the field (13 of 56) and 59.3 percent from the free-throw line (16 of 27). They made only 2 of 19 3-pointers.

In the first half, Hoover made only 3 of 20 field-goal attempts and were 0 of 10 on 3-pointers, falling into a 22-10 halftime deficit.

“We don’t ever start a season and plan to not win a state championship,” Hoover coach Krystle Johnson said.

“Today we did not play our best. The first half was probably the worst we played all season. A lot of credit goes to them for the defense they played.

“The effort we had through the middle of the third quarter and throughout the fourth is how we should’ve played the whole game.”

Even though she had to watch the final two minutes, Barker was ecstatic

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Athletic, Competitive White Becomes TwoSport Standout for Homewood. Page 30

SPORTS Thursday, March 5, 2020 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Relentless Rebels: Vestavia Hills Girls Soccer Team Just Keeps on Winning.

Page 30

‘Redemption’

Journal photo by Lee Walls

Journal photos by Lee Walls

Barker Winds up Cheering as Spain Park Edges Hoover to Claim Class 7A Girls Title

Mountain Brook senior Holt Bashinksy is consoled after the Spartans tense 40-38 loss to Lee-Montgomery last Saturday night at the BJCC Legacy Arena.

Spain Park (32-4) held on to beat Hoover 47-44 to claim their second title in three years and avenge a 51-47 overtime loss to Hoover in the 2017 championship game. Below, Junior Avery Masdon led the Jags with 12 points.

Rubin E. Grant

Two minutes and three seconds.

That’s how much time was remaining on the clock in the AHSAA Class 7A girls basketball state championship game Saturday at the BJCC Legacy Arena when Spain Park senior star Sarah Ashlee Barker became a spectator and a cheerleader.

The crosstown rival and defending champion Bucs were in the midst of a 15-5 run that had trimmed a 16-point Jags’ lead to 40-34 when Barker exited the game after picking up her fifth foul.

The crucial play occurred when Hoover’s Reniya Kelly drove the

baseline and went up for a shot.

Barker made minimal contact but was whistled for a foul.

“I tried to let her get the layup because that’s better than the ‘and’ one,” Barker said. “Personally, I didn’t think I had fouled her.”

Barker was in tears as she went to the bench and had to be consoled, then she realized she needed to support her teammates.

“It was a lot of emotion,” she said.

“Of course, it being my last game and being a senior, you don’t want to come out of a game. But I had to get it together because I had to be a leader off the court. That’s the most

See JAGUARS, page 31

Bond of Brothers

Spartans Learn Life Lessons in Tough Loss to Lee

By Rubin E. Grant When the end came, so did a flood of tears.

The previous three Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A boys basketball championship games ended with the Mountain Brook Spartans celebrating victory and the only tears were tears of joy – and perhaps a few from seniors who had played their final game with their high school teammates.

But last Saturday night, when the Lee-Montgomery Generals (33-1) ended Mountain Brook’s three-year reign with a tense 40-38 victory, the

Spartans cried profusely, almost uncontrollably.

Their disheartenment and dejec-

‘I saw people on both sides who would die for their brothers out there.’

MOUNTAIN BROOK COACH BUCKY MCMILLAN

tion was fully on display for all those at the BJCC Legacy Arena to see.

Mountain Brook coach Bucky

See SPARTANS, page 31

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