George Wright named Senior Pastor of Shades Mountain Baptist Church

By Emily Williams-RoBERtshaW

Shades Mountain Baptist Church has spent the past 24 years with the Rev. Danny Wood at the helm. But a new senior pastor is coming to the church after Woods’ retirement and will be joining the staff Aug. 16.

The Rev. George Wright is joining Shades Mountain from Shandon Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina, where he had pastored for the past four years.

Wright and his family traveled to Birmingham June 27 to introduce themselves to parishioners, and he preached at two Sunday services.

Following the evening service, Wright and Wood sat down for a “Get to Know You” session, during which Wood spoke about his experiences, his family and his faith.

“We could not be any more excited,” Wright said. “What God has done in our family and in our lives these last few months has been a true gift from the Lord.

“We are thrilled to join the family here,” Wright added, “and we can’t wait to get started.”

Forbes said he spoke with recruiters this past winter and saw a place and a church culture that spoke to his entire family. He said, he envisioned

spending many years serving and building on a facility that operates with a solid foundation in the community.

“We’re thrilled with the place God has brought us,” Steve Foster, chairman of the pastor search committee, said in a release. “It’s with great anticipation God will continue his work through Shades Mountain Baptist Church under George’s leadership.”

After Wright joined Shandon Baptist in 2016, he put racial reconciliation at the forefront of the church’s mission. He said the church sits on an “invisible line” in Columbia that divides a highly affluent community from a low-income area, and the church had a history of catering mainly to the more affluent side of town.

During his tenure, he saw a rise in diversity among parishioners shift from about 95% white to about 80% white and 20% minority.

“That has been a tremendous blessing to experience, but it also brings a lot of challenges,” Wright said. “There are a lot of opinions when you start to talk about racial reconciliation and there’s a lot of passion on all sides of this conversation. We have just sought to do everything we could to make sure that the Gospel was the center of that conversation.”

Making the move to Birmingham with Wright will be his wife of 20 years, Megan, and their four children: McKenna, 17; Brody, 15; Anna Beth, 13; and Everett, 9.

Wright’s first sermon as senior pastor of Shades Mountain is scheduled for Sept. 12.

‘We are thrilled to join the family here, and we can’t wait

to get started.’ REV. GEORGE WRIGHT

Making the move to Birmingham with Wright will be his wife of 20 years, Megan, and their four children: Brody, 15; Anna Beth, 13; Everett, 9; and McKenna, 17.

DAVENPORT’S

From page one

Introducing a Novel Bite

Davenport’s celebrated its 57th anniversary in May, a testament to the founders who introduced pizza to Birmingham.

Rex Hollis developed a love of pizza while traveling for business in the ‘50s and ‘60s. The only issue was that he couldn’t get it in his hometown.

According to the Hollis family, Rex noted that there was only one place in Alabama where you could order pizza in those days – Shakey’s. So, he decided to build a pizza palace across the street from his home on Brook Manor Drive in Mountain Brook Village.

Rex wanted the name of the restaurant to garner immediate recognition, so he named it after his childhood friend Jim “Peanut” Davenport, a professional baseball player with the San Francisco Giants and native of Siluria.

While the name was eye-catching, people in the community didn’t know very much about pizza, and the restaurant was not quick to catch on.

Rex and Ardyce would work 90-hour weeks, perfecting their recipes as well as walking pizzas to surrounding neighbors to introduce people to the new dish.

Thames grew up spending summers at the restaurant with her grandparents.

“My grandmother would take us to the restaurant, and we would play the arcade games and eat in the booths while she worked,” Thames said. “Then, I worked as a server while I was in high school, mostly during the summers but a little bit during the year.”

When Ardyce passed away in 2000, the couple’s daughters Heather Norris and Dianne McDanal began

running the business with Rex until his death in 2009.

After her mother’s sudden death in 2010, Thames was asked to join the family business and take over accounting duties, where she worked in tandem with Norris, who passed away in 2019.

The restaurant’s recipe for success is a dedication to consistency and tradition, according to Thames. The world around may be ever-changing, but the pizza dough, sauce and house salad dressing remain the same concoctions created by Ardyce Hollis.

“Almost everything has remained the same, and we try to keep it that way,” Thames said. “We know that customers have been eating here for decades and we want it to feel the same for them each time they come.”

‘We’re a young family with young children and it’s (Vestavia City Center) the exact kind of place that we would take our kids when we are going out to eat.’

AMANDA THAMES

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Second Try in Vestavia

Back in the ‘80s, Davenport’s had a location in Vestavia Hills that was quite successful, but the restaurant had to be closed when the building was sold.

“People still to this day ask about the Vestavia Davenport’s and talk about it, so it is exciting to be able to say that we are coming back to Vestavia,” Thames said.

The family has been discussing opening a second location for many years, but the pieces to the puzzle had not fallen into place until owners began touring the recently renovated Vestavia City Center.

“It is just the perfect fit for us,” Thames said. “We went there a few times while we were exploring it as an option and we were blown away by the atmosphere.”

Managed by Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors, the space was overhauled just before the pandemic. A patio area was covered in synthetic turf and outfitted with TV’s and seating to create a community gathering space.

“We’re a young family with young children and it’s the exact kind of place that we would take our kids when we are going out to eat,” Thames said. Thames and her husband, Britt, former member of the Homewood City Council, have two young sons.

While the plans are still being developed, there is a clear vision of the atmosphere the Vestavia Hills Davenport’s will offer diners.

“We want to keep as much the same as possible,” Thames said.

They will be serving up the same menu of salads and handmade pizza dough and sauce piled with toppings in a setting reminiscent of the original location. The original location is known for its walls filled with photos of celebrities and athletes, red vinyl booths, gingham table cloths and decor reminiscent of an Italian cafe, right down to the empty Chianti bottles.

“We’re definitely planning on having an arcade area, which our customers want and expect,” Thames said. Just as at the original location, the arcade area will host children’s birthday parties and after parties for Little League baseball teams.

“The movie theater is right next door, which is a perfect fit,” Thames said. “A parent can drop of their kids and they can get a pizza and go watch a movie.”

The space won’t be an exact replica of the Mountain Brook restaurant; some of the amenities at the city center will offer new dining experiences.

“We’ll have that patio, so we will be able offer outdoor seating,” Thames said. “We’re also hoping to have some TVs, so people can enjoy watching sporting events while they are eating.”

While details are still in the works, the new location will be opening in 2022.

Senior Safety: I Got the COVID-19 Vaccine – Now What?

COVID-19 vaccinations continue to roll out across the United States as all adults are now eligible. Since seniors were some of the first to receive the vaccine, many are now fully vaccinated. With this added layer of protection against severe disease, older adults may be wondering what that means for socializing and getting back to some of their favorite activities.

It is important to note that being vaccinated does not guarantee 100% protection against COVID-19; however, the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are up to 95% effective at preventing severe disease and minimizing symptoms. Seniors can still get sick, but the risk is much lower. Masks should still be worn when out in public places, especially indoors where ventilation may be poor. In addition, social distancing guidelines should continue to be followed in these situations as well.

So, what can fully vaccinated seniors do?

You can visit with small groups of family or friends without masks if they have also been vaccinated.

If you are visiting with people who have not been vaccinated, try to Giving Our Best To Your Loved Ones limit it to one household outside of your own at a time.

When you want the best for your loved ones, call Always Best Care!

You can begin traveling again without having to quarantine or get tested.

Many seniors have been isolated for months, so being able to spend time with and hug loved ones can provide a much-needed boost in mental health. Talk to your family and make sure that everyone is comfortable with the plans put in place. Some families may be fine with being in close quarters inside while others prefer to socialize outdoors.

Some senior centers and other organizations are starting to host various activities again. They may have limited spots open, but you can get back to enjoying book clubs, art classes, exercise groups, and other social gatherings. Be sure to follow the safety protocols they have in place regarding masks and social distancing.

You may decide to form your own “pod” of friends that you meet with each week because everyone takes similar safety precautions. You can plan different trips and activities that you want to do together. This can help you slowly ease back into to society and increase socialization. Adjusting to a New Normal

There are still a lot of unknowns when it comes to COVID-19 and whether vaccinated individuals are able to spread the virus to others. Although you can enjoy more relaxed guidelines, you should continue to pay attention to recommendations from the CDC. It is better to err on the side of being overly cautious.

Remember to do what makes you feel most comfortable. It is your choice who you choose to socialize with or where you choose to go. But now that you are fully vaccinated, you may feel a little safer getting together with loved ones and doing more activities that you enjoy.

Many seniors have been isolated for months, so being able to spend time with and hug loved ones can provide a much-needed boost in mental health. This article was provided by Jennifer Mancuso, owner, Always Best Care. For more information on our services contact us at 205-874-9730 or email us at jmancuso@abc-seniors.com

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By RuBin E. GRant

Reggie and Michelle Torbor enjoy bringing people together. The couple figure one of the best ways to do that is over a meal.

“We love people, and we love food, and we believe the best things happen when you put the two together,” Reggie Torbor said.

So, on April 30, the husbandand-wife team opened Taproot Cafe in Hoover. It was an idea that had

taken root some time ago.

“My husband enjoys cooking,” Michelle Torbor said. “Back when he was playing football, he said it would be cool to own a little food shop one day. He said that because of a sandwich deli we used to go to.

“One of his friends who he grew up with had a small business and we thought about going into business with him on a smoothie shop. But we decided to go our separate ways, but then we started tossing around some ideas and decided on this.”

Taproot is at 5190 Medford Drive, Suite 124, next door to Jubilee Joe’s. It serves smoothies, salads, sandwiches and toasts. It also focuses on locally sourced ingredients from farmers markets and food makers.

“We believe that this route is worth it,” Michelle Torbor said. “Playing our part in the sustainability of people, the environment and our local economy is worth it. We want to see others understand their power to make a difference, as well.”

The health-conscious and community-focused concept is a natural extension of its owners. Reggie Torbor is a former Auburn football player, NFL linebacker and Giants Super Bowl champion. He currently serves as a motivational speaker and personal development manager at Brasfield & Gorrie.

Michelle Torbor is a licensed professional counselor and owner of Cardinal Wellness, which specializes in anxiety and trauma treatment.

“I just imagine a mom who is trying to be healthy coming here after her workout at the YMCA up the street with her kids, and she can order something wholesome and delicious that keeps her on track.” Reggie Torbor said.

Michelle Torbor agreed, adding, “Yeah. Good food they can feel good about putting into their bodies, and that sense of purpose — knowing that when they visit us, they are playing a part in making a difference for real people, whether that is staff, farmers and their families, or our other partners who work hard to make a living.”

The Torbors do the menu planning and Michelle’s brother Eric Myers is the general manager. He is a former Hoover police officer who retired from the force a month before Taproot opened.

The restaurant specializes in the natural flavors of fruits and vegetables by keeping it as simple as possible. Rather than creating a smoothie with sugar-laden syrups or ice cream, the unique flavors of the fruits and vegetables are paired with natural sugars such as wildflower honey.

“Adding a bunch of sugar to fruit is like dousing a good steak with A1,” Michelle Torbor said. “It’s just a no-no, and you miss the natural goodness.”

Reggie Torbor is a former Auburn football player, NFL linebacker, and Giants Super Bowl champion. Michelle Torbor is a licensed professional counselor and owner of Cardinal Wellness.

Reggie and Michelle Torbor opened Taproot Cafe on April 30.

Feel Good Food

New Restaurant in Hoover Caters to Health-Conscious Diners

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Management Is the Challenge

Running a restaurant has been a learning experience for the Torbors, especially making sure the daily operations run smoothly.

“We’re learning the ins and outs as much as we can,” Michelle Torbor said. “So, it’s the daily operation, getting it to where the food is fast and consistent. And we’re learning about managing people.

“We’re also trying to work with suppliers locally, farmers and others, on the inventory, making sure we get the things we need.”

Taproot partners with local growers and curators throughout Alabama, including Ireland Farms in Alpine, Hamm Farms in Cullman, Smitherman Farms in Clanton, Eastaboga Bee Company in Lincoln and Birmingham Breadworks, which is owned by Brooks Taylor on the Southside.

The restaurant is beginning to find its niche since opening.

“Business is going well,” Michelle Torbor said. “We’re as busy as we can possibly be, seeing how we’ve never been in the restaurant business before. There’s been a ton to learn, but we’ve gotten great support from others in the restaurant business. We’ve found there’s a need for faster, healthier food.”

By MaRy GullaGE

The homegrown fundraiser Hope in the Ham will return this year for its fourth year.

The event will take place July 15 at the venue in the Retail Specialists building, on Southside Birmingham at 2200 Magnolia Ave. S.

Funds raised will support the American Cancer Society’s Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge.

Serving as event chairs are Adelaide Vandervelde, Mary Elaine Jolly, Tricia Golden and Wendy Barze. Vandervelde said the chairs are expecting a great turnout for this year’s event.

“After an unprecedented year of staying at home, the chairs and I are thrilled to gather for this event and we know it will be an enjoyable night to benefit the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge,” Vandervelde said.

Hope Lodge opened in 2000 and offers 33 guest rooms for patients and caregivers to use

Bluegrass during their cancer treatments. and BBQ In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic Hope in the Ham to Raise shutdowns, health orders required the facility to Funds for American Cancer close its doors for a time

Society’s Hope Lodge and shift its focus to serving as a place of respite for local health care workers. Funds raised at the event will directly benefit the many patients who see the facility as a “home away from home” during their treatment. The theme for the 2021 event is “Bluegrass and BBQ,” with catering by Saw’s BBQ and a live bluegrass performance by “The Mountain Grass Unit.” The band features Mountain Brook High School students Drury Anderson, mandolin and vocals; Luke Black, acoustic guitar and banjo; and Sam Wilson, upright bass. For more information and tickets, visit gala. acsevents.org/hopeintheham. Tickets are $50 per person.

Fiesta Ball Week Highlights Mexican and Tex-Mex Fare to Support O’Neal Cancer Center

MBHS Class of 1995 to Host 25th Year Reunion Sept. 11

After having to delay for a year because of the pandemic, the Mountain Brook High School Class of 1995 will be hosting its 25th Reunion on Sept. 11.

The event will take place at Otey’s Tavern in Crestline Village from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Festivities will include live music, appetizers and football games shown on large TVs.

In addition, a silent auction will be held featuring pieces created by local artists who are MBHS alums, with proceeds benefiting the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation.

To buy tickets and for more information, contact Roxane Mackin at roxanemackin@yahoo.com or visit the “MBHS Class of 1995” Facebook page. Tickets are $35 per person.

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In light of the ongoing pandemic, the Young Supporters Board for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham has transformed its annual fundraising ball into a weeklong food festival taking place at various restaurants in the Birmingham area from July 17 to July 24.

The event will not only raise funds for cancer research at the cancer center but also support local restaurants, which have been affected in many ways by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The board has partnered with local Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants that will offer special Fiesta Ball Week individual and family meals ranging from $35 to $75 per meal. Participating establishments include Sol Y Luna, El ZunZun, Little Donkey, Craft’s on Church Street, La Paz and all locations of Taco Mama.

In addition, a silent auction will be available online, featuring a variety of items and experiences, including tickets to the 2021 Barber Vintage Festival and Magic City Classic, a Jones is Thirsty wine tasting, a hunting experience and other items.

Tickets are required for the event and can be purchased online at uab. edu/fiestaball, where guests can select the meals they wish to purchase during the week. Funds from ticket sales will benefit both the restaurants selected and the cancer center.

Participating establishments include Sol Y Luna (above), El ZunZun, Little Donkey, Craft’s on Church Street, La Paz and all locations of Taco Mama.

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