OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM
SOCIAL SOCIAL
10, 2017 THURSDAY, AUGUST 24,
SPORTS FALL FASHION
BACK TO SCHOOL
THEStriking the Right Balance FORTY YEAR PLAN T
TIME FOR KICKOFF
Buddy Anderson is the winningest high school coach in Alabama, with a record of 325-140. He begins his 40th season as head coach at Vestavia Hills on Sept. 1 in a game against Homewood. See story and check out our season previews in OTMJ’s annual football 24-page pull-out section inside.
Experts Weigh in on Importance of Choosing Students’ Extracurriculars Wisely
By Sarah Kuper
Journal file photo by Lee Walls Jr.
he beginning of the school year comes with new challenges for students and Vestavia’s parents. Some are trivial, like finding the right locker, while others Buddy Anderson can make a lifelong difference. Reflects on the Past But1 Recently, Dr. Heather Austin, UAB expert in clinical child to psychology and pediatric psychology, tackled the topic of Looks the Future managing a student’s extracurricular commitments. In an article released by the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Austin states the importance of striking the right balance for children. “There is definitely a difference between overscheduled and opportunities for enrichment,” Austin said. “Life is very busy and downtime is essential for
children. I think often we as parents and professionals forget this.” Austin said parents are instrumental in guiding a child or teen through choosing participation in sports, academic or civic clubs, but a parent shouldn’t make executive decisions without considering a child’s
feelings and well-being. She advises focusing on a student’s strengths, interests and opportunities for growth. A child forced into an activity may end up miserable and anxious and not get anything out of it. Austin said that, although it may take time and consideration, choosing the right blend of extracurriculars is worthwhile. Lauren Patterson, guidance counselor at The Altamont School, agrees. “Students involved in a healthy mix of extracurriculars are less likely to engage in risky behaviors,” she said. Patterson, who is new to the private school this year, said her goal is to get to know students individually so she can help them navigate all Altamont has See BALANCE, page 29
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GrandviewHealth.com
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IN THIS ISSUE
MURPHY’S LAW
N MOONLIGHT STAR TURN Hoover Teens to Perform with Award-Winning Folk Band PAGE 7
LEND A HELPING HAND Vestavia Hills Community Service Day Brings City Together PAGE 10
HOMETOWN PRIDE Homewood Residents Create New Line of Patriot Apparel PAGE 19
SMITH’S GOES SHOPPING Owners Looking for Someone to Buy the Store and Run It Like Mom and Pop Did PAGE 22
ABOUT TOWN 3 NEWS 8 LIFE 10 SOCIAL 12 WEDDINGS 18
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OPINION/CONTENTS
FASHION 21 BUSINESS 22 SCHOOLS 24 SPORTS 28
ON OTMJ.COM
There’s so much happening in the Over the Mountain area, we can’t fit it all in the paper! Visit www.otmj.com for more stories and photos.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
August 24, 2017 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Sarah Kuper, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Tyler Waldrep Contributors: Susan Murphy, Jordan Wald, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Vol. 27, No. 25
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 2017 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.
The Cheese Stands Alone
this wasn’t kind or helpful. It was just ow that school has started, the way life was. everyone will be choosing up But it isn’t, or at least, it doesn’t teams. Not Alabama or have to be, so I’m sending this out to Auburn. That was locked in at birth. all of you cheeses: Don’t let the farmI’m talking about other-than-that ers get you down. choices. I worry about all of my little cheese You may or may not make your friends, but to tell you the truth, I high school football team. You may or worry more about the farmers. I susmay not make cheerleading. Like I’ve pect that, deep down, they are cheeses said before, too many people, too few themselves who are trying desperately slots. That’s the way it goes. to outrun their cheesiness by degrading But there are also insidious, unoffithe people around them. I worry even cial teams – teams on the playground, more about the wives and children and teams in the lunchroom, teams in the nurses and dogs who, even though hallways – where you’re either in or they know it is wrong, silently stand you’re out and you may never figure Sue Murphy with the farmer and count the cheese’s out why. Your status has to do with lonely status as a narrow miss on some unseen, unwritten set of You may or may not their part. parameters set up by … actually, no Cheeses, my advice is to hold one knows, but everyone seems make your high school your head up during that last verse, locked in, or more to the point, football team. You but do not stand there for another some people get locked out. You remember how it was in may or may not make round. Gather up other cheeses and a game of your own. grade school? Recess finally came, cheerleading. Like I’ve buildIf the farmers in your life try to and immediately some self-appointed captains had everyone line up said before, too many extend their game to the lunchroom, sit somewhere else. If the toadie (Why did we listen to them?) and people, too few slots. wives and children and dogs and commenced calling names in the order of who they liked best. Could That’s the way it goes. nurses carry the cheese ridicule to Facebook and Twitter, do not listen, this be any more painful? do nwot look at it. But most of all, Well, sure it could. They could remember that, even if the teacher make you sing while they do it. We used to play a game called “Farmer in the Dell.” Here’s appointed the farmer (and that was wrong), it’s all a meaningless game. It can be a cruel one, one that will the gist: One kid is the farmer (sometimes the teacher require every bit of your cheesy fortitude to withstand, appointed the farmer), and as everybody sings, he but do not buy into their ridicule, do not think for one selects a wife, who selects a child, who selects a nurse, minute that they know what they are doing. Rise above who selects a dog, until you wind up at the final verse their nonsense. Be a big cheese, or at least a kinder, which is, “The cheese stands alone, the cheese stands alone, hi-ho the dairio, the cheese stands alone.” Hi- ho gentler cheese, because in the end, that’s the only thing that really matters. indeed. I suspect the game was invented by the same I keep a sign on my desk that says, “Be truthful people who brought you “Old Maid.” and gentle and fearless.” Go forth, little cheeses … and I spent many a recess hoping against hope that I sing. ❖ would make dog status. It never occurred to me that
OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS
What are you looking forward to most about the start of football season? “Good friends, good food, and good drinks.” Mallory Bullard Hoover “Tailgating, it’s fun socializing with other friends that get super into it.” Hannah McCormick UAB Student “Being around a lot of other football fans.” Carson Ticer UAB Student
“Going to games with friends.” Rusty LuQuire Crestline
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Maestro, Maestro!
Violinist Daniel Szasz Honored During Ball After 20 years as Concertmaster
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s annual Maestro’s Ball will have an Eastern European theme this year, partly to commemorate the evening’s honoree, Daniel Szasz. Before serving as concertmaster at the ASO, the Romanian-born violinist toured Europe with Romania’s premiere orchestra, and he studied under and performed with some of Switzerland’s greatest classical musicians. In 1993, Szasz moved to the United States and continued to study, perform and win national prizes for his work. Twenty years ago, Szasz became the concertmaster at the ASO. According to ASO conductor Carlos Izcaray, the concertmaster position is one of the most crucial in the ensemble. “The person in that role must lead the violin The Maestro’s Ball will and principal players of be hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Lee Thuston. other string sections, which all together make up the majority of the ensemble,” he said, “They do so by their exemplary playing and virtuosity, something the rest of the ensemble emulates in order to have a focused, cohesive yet also expressive sound.” Izcaray continued to say that a top orchestra such as the ASO needs an accomplished concertmaster to lead the orchestra when guest conductors visit.
While Szasz will be recognized at the event, the star of the evening will be the music, including the performance of Bence-Muk’s Transylvanian Seasons. The orchestra will perform this piece plus other Balkan, folk-inspired works by composers Enescu
‘With Daniel Szasz, I can safely say that we have one of the most gifted and respected concertmasters in the country. We are very fortunate to have him here in the Birmingham community.’ ASO CONDUCTOR CARLOS IZCARAY Photos special to the Journal
By Sarah Kuper
ABOUT TOWN
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 3
AUGUST 24 - SEPT. 7 Aug. 24-27 BIRMINGHAM
Sidewalk Film Festival Downtown Birmingham The 19th annual film festival presented by Regions will continue with screenings of movies from filmmakers across the country and around the world. The event will take over 11 venues located within Birmingham’s historic Theatre District, including the Alabama Theatre and the newly restored Lyric Fine Arts Theatre. A full schedule of films and venues can be found on the website. Tickets are $30$285. For more information and a full schedule, visit sidewalkfest.com.
Thurs., Aug. 24 BIRMINGHAM
Before Daniel Szasz began serving as concertmaster at the ASO, the Romanian-born violinist toured Europe with Romania’s premiere orchestra, and he studied under and performed with some of Switzerland’s greatest classical musicians.
“With Daniel Szasz, I can safely say that we have one of the most gifted and respected concertmasters in the country,” Izcaray said. “We are very fortunate to have him here in the Birmingham community.”
and Kodaly. Before the concert, guests will enjoy a champagne reception, and after the performance, a dinner catered by Hot & Hot Fish Club will be served on the ASO grounds. The tent will be decorated with a Hungarian theme. The Maestro’s Ball will be hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Lee Thuston, and Daniel Szasz’s 20-year anniversary season is sponsored by PNC. The ball is Sept. 8, at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. The event is the ASO’s largest fundraiser, and proceeds go to artistic, educational and outreach programs. For tickets and more information, visit alabamasymphony.org. ❖
Hymns of Hope Iron City Birmingham Prodigal Pottery presents “A Night with Ellie Holcomb,” a benefit concert supporting Prodigal Pottery in the work they do with women fleeing homelessness and domestic abuse. The concert starts at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 Ellie Holcomb p.m. General admission tickets are $25, Priority Pass tickets are $45 and VIP tickets are $100. For more information, visit squareup.com/store/ prodigalpottery or pottery@kingshome. com.
8 PRIMARY CARE LOCATIONS. SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS. 1 NUMBER: 205-971-DOCS.
Grandview Medical Group makes it easier to see a primary care provider in Birmingham – quickly. Just call 205-971-DOCS before noon on weekdays. Most calls will result in a same-day appointment with a physician or a nurse practitioner at one of our eight primary care locations. Walk-ins are welcome, too. If you or a family member age five or older needs to see a doctor fast, think Grandview Medical Group. Schedule an appointment online, anytime, with select providers:
GrandviewMedicalGroup.com
Chelsea • Columbiana • Grandview Physicians Plaza • Hoover • Lee Branch • Liberty Park • Springville • Trussville
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Look Forward. 6/16/17 4:06 PM
4 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN Fri., Aug 25
Gear up with all the best collegiate merchandise from
Aug. 25-26
Fine Wine for a Cause United Ability Junior Board Hosts Vino & Van Gogh Event
VESTAVIA HILLS
Tuesday, August 29th 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Save 25% off ALL collegiate items
205-968-0909
Enter to Win Prizes!
Just A Phase Mountaintop Community Church Kirk and Casey Martin and Dr. Chap Clark will be the guest speakers at this years parenting conference, which will provide parents of preschoolers to high schoolers practical skills to survive the phases and guide their kids toward an awesome future. The event will be Fri. from 6:30-8 p.m. and Sat. from 9 a.m.-noon. Tickets are $20 per person and include childcare. Space is limited. Register early. For more information or to register, visit mountaintopchurch. com/parentingconference/. BIRMINGHAM
Twice as Nice Sale Zamora Temple Birmingham Area Mothers of Multiples will sponsor a consignment sale, featuring new and gently used infant, children and maternity clothing, shoes, baby equipment, high chairs, To: Anna toys, books, DVDs, bedding, furniture, From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., housewares, decor and more. The sale will be open from 5-9 p.m. on Friday 205-824-1246, fax with no strollers or children under 10 Date: August allowed. Strollers and kids are welcome This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the at the Saturday sale, which will be held August 24, 2017 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. This event is approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246. free. For more information, visit bigtent. com.
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Sat., Aug. 26 BIRMINGHAM
Fairy Tale Ball Birmingham Marriott Grandview Childcare Resources will host its 11th annual family-friendly gala
All benefits go to supporting the many services United Ability offers children and adults with disabilities. Auction items include artwork made by some of UA’s clients and by other local artists. Tickets cost $60 for a couple or $35 for individuals. Visit unitedability.org for more information on UA and to purchase tickets. — Sarah Kuper
The junior board of United Ability invites the public to an evening of fine wine, art and, of course, a chance to bid on an SEC championship ticket package for two. The Vino & Van Gogh event is Aug. 24 at BridgeStreet Gallery and Loft. The fundraiser is presented by Zuriel Technology Group and will include wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, live music and auction items.
per ticket. Dress is casual. For more information, visit sozochildren.org/ dinner/.
from 5:30-8:30 p.m. featuring dance music, a silent auction, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, adult and children’s beverages, a “candy bar,” costumed stilt walkers, magicians, jugglers, fairy tale characters and more. Family tickets are $200 and admit up to 2 adults and 2 children. Individual adult tickets are $90, children 12 and under are $20 and children 2 and under are free. For more information, visit “11th Annual Fairy Tale Ball” Facebook page.
BIRMINGHAM
Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival Historic 4th Avenue District Downtown Urban Impact presents this one day jazz festival from 2-9 p.m. featuring live jazz, blues and gospel music, dancing, spoken word and comedy, an exhibit on the history of the district, a kid zone, food vendors and more. Admission is free. For more information, visit 4thavenuejazz.org.
BIRMINGHAM
Passport to Uganda Sozo Trading Co. Experience first hand the streets of Uganda as the store and warehouse are transformed allowing you to truly experience the story of Sozo. The seventh annual Sozo Childrens Fundraising Dinner will be held from 5:30-9 p.m. and include dinner, interactive experiences, a video presentation, silent auction and a block party. This family friendly event is $30
HOMEWOOD
Back 2 School Bash 17 Patriot Park A new twist to this year’s Bash is combining the park’s event with the Patriot Park Street Festival fall event, sponsored by the West Homewood Neighborhood Association. The event will kick off the new school year with an array of rides, bounce houses, food HOMEWOOD
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
It's Time for Tailgates & Touchdowns
Steel City Soirée Old Car Heaven This inaugural event benefiting the American Cancer Society will be held from 7-11 p.m. and feature Birmingham’s top professional men and women. Steel City Soiree recognizes the honorees for their successes and continued contributions to their community. The evening will include heavy hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails, live entertainment, dancing, a silent auction and will culminate in a presentation of ambassadors. Individual tickets are $50. This years “Boy of Steel” is 6 year old Walker Simmons. For a glimpse of his journey and more information, visit steelcitysoiree. swellgives.com
Tailgate Challenge, Aug. 26 The Bell Center Event-goers at the Bell Center’s Tailgate Challenge will enjoy tastes of tailgating food at various team tents. It will be an afternoon of music, kid-friendly events and team rivalry. Celebrity judges will be on hand to judge each of the teams on most team spirit, best tasting food, and best all around. The event is from 11 a.m -2 p.m. Tickets are $15. Children 12 and under are free. For more information visit, the bellcenter.org. ❖ Betts Colquett and Samford University Cheerleaders enjoying last years Tailgate Challenge.
Photo special to the Journal
BIRMIGHAM
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Fascinating Faces
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 5
ABOUT TOWN
The photographs of Bob Tedrow are the latest exhibit being shown by the Homewood Arts Council in its Community Gallery. The collection on display is made up of photographs of faces. Tedrow said in a statement issued by the council that the landscape of the human face in all its variety has held fascination for a thousand years. Tedrow, who owns Homewood Music, is a self-ascribed luthier, a person who builds or repairs string instruments. But he does not call himself a photographer, according to the council’s release. He said his interest in photography started in 1959, when his mother would buy him film and turn him loose to take photos. “It was very exciting to open the package of developed film to see what I had managed to capture,” he said. Fifty years later, as the internet transformed retail and consumers bought banjos based on online photos, Tedrow said, he decided to “step and live entertainment from 4:30-8:30 p.m. There is no admission charge but a $10 unlimited attractions wristband must be purchased to jump and ride the rides. Proceeds from the wristband sales go to benefit the Homewood High School Band as they prepare to represent Homewood at the 2018 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. For more information, visit homewoodparks.com. BIRMINGHAM
An Evening With Friends UAB Alys Stephens Center The Birmingham chapter of The Links Inc., a philanthropic organization of professional women, will host a fundraiser, “An Evening with Friends: Where Art Meets Soul” from 6-10 p.m. The evening will include the sale of commissioned limited edition prints by Brenda Joysmith and a silent auction with jewelry donated by the event’s honorary chair Patty McDonald. Tickets are $75. For more information, visit bhamlinksinc.org.
Sun., Aug. 27 BIRMINGHAM
Art Alive Roots & Revelry Watch local artist create unique, original artwork at an event presented by AIDS Alabama from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy scrumptious food and drink and revel in the sounds from the Stephen McCullough band. Works created during the event will be available through a silent auction, and other completed pieces of work from the artist will be available for purchase. Tickets are $75 in advance and $100 at the door. For more information, visit aidsalabama.org/events/art-alive/. HOMEWOOD
Book Signing Homewood Public Library The Library will host a program followed by a book signing with holocaust survivor Max Steinmetz and co-author Amy McDonald in the Large Auditorium from 3-4 p.m. In the penetrating memoir, “Determined
up” his photography skills by learning how light and contrast and composition affected photos of a banjo. “That led of course to photos of banjo players and photos of others as well. I have a simple mind and am easily obsessed with obscure interests – antique cars, pay phones, banjos, dogs, wife and children ... and photography. Not in that order,” he said. The exhibit is available for viewing through October at Homewood City Hall Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on evenings when the City Council and city committees meet. For more information, visit the Homewood Arts Council’s Facebook page, or contact Diane Litsey, chair of the Homewood Arts Council, at 213-7866 or diane@thedancefoundation.org. The council’s next big event is the “Pickin’ in the Park” acoustic music festival, being held Oct. 15 in Central Park. —Virginia Martin
Bob Tedrow.
to Survive: A Story of Survival and One Teacher’s Passion to Bring That Story to Life” you will witness through the eyes of Steinmetz, a teenager during Wolrd War II, his story of survival. Books will be available for purchase. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org.
FirstLink Checking Gold or Platinum
Thurs., Aug. 31 BIRMINGHAM
Silent Auction Bradley Lecture Center The Central Alabama Hydrocephalus Association and the Hydrocephalus Association Walk will co-host the annual silent auction from 6-8 p.m. in the Bradley Lecture Center at Children’s of Alabama. Money raised by this auction will go to Hydrocephalus Association and stay in the state of Alabama to provide Children’s of Alabama money for research. For more information, visit “Central Alabama Hydorcephalus Association Silent Auction” Facebook page.
Fri., Sept. 1 BIRMINGHAM
UAB House Party Uptown Entertainment District Blazer fans will kick off a historic weekend with a free concert by country music star and former UAB quarterback Sam Hunt as well as Maren Morris and Ryan Follese on the eve of #theReturn of UAB Football. Tickets are free, but required. For more information, visit uab.edu/houseparty/.
SEPT. 1-4 MOUNTAIN BROOK
KI Sisterhood Estate Sale Knesseth Israel Congregation Knesseth Israel Congregation presents an estate sale scheduled for Fri., Sept 1 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun., Sept 3 from 11a.m.-4 p.m.; and Mon., Sept 4 from 11a.m.-4 p.m. Items available include antiques, vintage decor, artwork, jewelry, gently used books, toys, DVDs, videos, games, housewares, bric-a-brac, judaica, furniture, sports equipment, kitchen,
Photo special to the Journal
Tedrow’s Photographs of Faces on Display at Homewood City Hall
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When FirstLink Gold or Platinum Checking qualifications are met, the interest rate and corresponding annual percentage yield (APY) will be tiered. If the daily balance is $20,000 or less, the interest paid will be 1.75% with an APY of 1.76%. An interest rate of .50% will be paid only for that portion of your daily balance that is greater than $20,000. The APY for this tier will range from 1.76% to .76% depending on the balance in the account. If qualifications are not met, the interest rate on your account will be .05% and the APY will be .05%. FirstLink Gold or Platinum Checking account is a variable rate account. The rate may change after the account is opened. The stated APY is accurate as of August 1, 2017. The minimum balance to obtain the stated APY is $100.00. The minimum amount required to open the account is $100.00. Fees could reduce the earnings on the account.
Come say hello to your new neighbors. Hwy 280 at Pump House Road
205-582-1200 www.firstusbank.com
6 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sat. from 8 a.m.-noon. Items on sale at the event will include children’s clothes, toys, books, shoes, baby furniture and more. Proceeds benefit the church’s children and youth programs and various mission groups. For more information, visit asburygigglesandgrace.com. Journal photo by Marvin Gentry
Sat., Sept. 9 BIRMINGHAM
Noojin and White Race to the Courthouse YMCA, Downtown Branch The 30th annual 5k and one-mile fun run will kick-off at 8 a.m. The event honors the late Birmingham attorneys Ronnie Noojin and Jere White who were avid supporters of the YMCA. The event includes music and food in addition to the run. Proceeds from the race will benefit the YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s financial assistance program. For event pricing and more information, visit runsignup.com.
From left: Jennifer Ard, ZooGala 2017 Advisor; Kelly Styslinger, Honorary Chair; Myla Calhoun, ZooGala 2017 Chair; Dr. Bill Foster, President and CEO of the Birmingham Zoo; Britt Redden, ZooGala 2017 Chair; Cissy Jackson, Board Chair; Kelly Aland, ZooGala 2017 Chair; and Erica Murphy, IBERIABANK, presenting sponsor of ZooGala 2017.
Mambo with the Macaws ZooGala Fundraiser Includes Cocktails, Dinner and Auction
bath and more. All donations and purchases support the programs and services offered at Knesseth Israel Congregation. For more information, visit kicong.org.
Mon., Sept. 4 MCCALLA
Labor Day Celebration Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park On Labor Day you can participate in Alabama’s largest moon pie eating contest and compete for prize money in both children and adult categories. Across the park, the United Mine Workers will hold their annual Birmingham District Labor Day
minghamzoo.com/event/zoogala-2017 to buy tickets or check out online auction selections, which include dinners, wine, jewelry, art and zoo experiences. Tickets are $200 per person for zoo members and $250 per person for non-members. The event is for adults 21 and older. For more information, contact Kristin Martin at 909-4560 or kmartin@ birminghamzoo.com. IberiaBank is the evening’s presenting sponsor for the eighth consecutive year. The ZooGala
celebration. There will be BBQ, games and live music. Gate admission is $5 adults, $4 seniors (62+), $3 children, 5 and under are free. For more information, visit alabama.travel.
Wed., Sept. 6 MOUNTAIN BROOK
Pooches on the Patio Vino Vino will host its 6th annual anniversary event benefitting the Greater Birmingham Humane society from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Bring out your pooch and sip on event-exclusive craft cocktails, “the Pooch Potion martini or the Meow Mule, a Moscow mule”. Guest can enter a drawing to win
Committee is chaired by Kelly Aland, Myla Calhoun and Britt Redden, with Jennifer Ard as ZooGala adviser. Serving on the committee are: Meredith Belkofer, Virginia Clark, Collins Clegg, Ensley Darnall, Amanda Davis, Katrina Logan, Jess Mason, Susan Murdock, Elizabeth Outland and Brooks Sanders. The ZooGala 2017 honorary chairs are Kelly and Lee Styslinger III. ZooGala is the zoo’s largest fundraiser benefiting conservation efforts, educational programming and animal care. —Virginia Martin
prizes. Additionally, guest will receive a complimentary goody bag with Vino’s famous apple fritters and brownies to take home. Guest dogs will also receive a complimentary treat bag. The GBHS will be onsite with adoptable dogs and Vino will be donating a portion of all proceeds form the evening to the GBHS. For more information, visit mtnbrookchamber.org.
Thurs., Sept. 7 BIRMINGHAM
Glow for a Cure Highland Park Golf Course Alzheimers of Center Alabama’s sixth annual Night of Golf Tournament begins with a tee off at 4:30 p.m. Golfers will
HOMEWOOD
ZERO Prostate Cancer Walk/Run Homewood Central Park ZERO and Vituro Health have teamed up to end prostate cancer. The two organizations will host an event that features a 5K run/walk, 1 mile walk, Kids’ Superhero Dash for Dad, and virtual Snooze for Dudes program. The run/walk starts at 8 a.m. and includes a family-friendly post-race celebration. Participants will receive tech shirts, free food, and the opportunity to connect with others who are impacted by prostate cancer. For registration information, visit zeroprostatecancerrun. org/birmingham.
enjoy nine holes, dinner, followed by nine more holes with lighted balls, tees and greens. Tickets are $1,000 a foursome. Spectators tickets are $25 and include dinner. For teams and tickets call Vance Holder at 871-7970. For more information, visit alzca.org/ glow.
Sept. 14-16 BIRMIMNGHAM
Middle Eastern Food Festival St. George Melkite Catholic Church Saint George Melkite Catholic Church will host its 36th annual festival featuring homemade Middle Eastern food, music and dance, booths and tours. Food will be served from 10:30 a.m.to 9 p.m. each day. Downtown delivery will be available for Thurs. and Fri. lunch with a $75 minimum order. For takeout and delivery call 492-9621. A drive through service will operate from 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. Proceeds will benefit local charities and church maintenance. For more information, visit saintgeorgeonline.org.
Fri., Sept. 8 HOMEWOOD
Gospel Concert Samford University Multi-Grammy Award winner Bill Gaither will host an evening of music, laughter and encouragement featuring the talent of the prestigious Gaither Vocal Band in the Wright Center at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. There will be timeless gospel classics, as well as refreshing, inspiring new favorites. For more information, including ticket pricing, call 726-2853 or visit premierproductions.com.
Thurs., Sept. 14
Sept., 8-9
BIRMINGHAM
BIRMINGHAM
Birmingham Artwalk Historic Loft District The 16th annual arts festival transforms Birmingham’s loft neighborhood into an arts district, featuring the work of more than 100 visual artists, live musicians, street performers, food and drink vendors and children’s activities. Events times are Fri. from 5-10 p.m. and Sat. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. This event is free to the public. For more information, visit birminghamartwalk.org. HOOVER
Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale Asbury United Methodist Church The church will hold its annual baby and child fall consignment sale Fri.
littlemewscat.com
The Birmingham Zoo is celebrating Mambo with the Macaws at ZooGala 2017 on Sept. 15. Guests will be treated to cocktails, dinner, dancing and an online auction during the event, which takes place in the Children’s Zoo from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. A Caribbean-themed menu from Kathy G & Company is being planned to accompany music by Atlanta Steel Pan and Island Trio and the Main Attraction. The online auction begins Sept. 8. Visit bir-
Stray Cat Strut The Nest Little Mews Cats will host their fundraiser from 6-8 p.m. The event includes a light dinner and dessert, a jewelry box fundraiser and silent auction. Door prizes will be raffled during the event. All proceeds go to Little Mew’s Cat Sanctuary Inc. to help stray and feral cats. Prepurchased tickets are $20, $25 at the door. For more information, visit littlemewscats.com. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 7
ABOUT TOWN
Moonlight Star Turn
As Moonlight on the Mountain begins Aug. 24, two Hoover students will take to the stage with award-winning folk/Americana band Ricky J. Taylor and the Live Roots Ensemble. Hoover High School students William and Anna Ayers will be sitting with the band for a selection of its songs. The band features seasoned folk artist Ricky J. Taylor, who has performed with bluegrass greats such as Claire Lynch. Taylor is joined by fivetime Tennessee State Fiddle Champion Jim Wood; Inge Wood on fiddle, viola, mandolin, guitar and vocals; Ben Ayers on upright bass; and percussionist Kyle Copeland. Siblings William and Anna, both 16, have been playing music for more than 10 years. William plays the guitar and banjo and recently opened for Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center orchestra for their performance at the Alys Stephens Center. His other accolades include performing at the Alabama All State Jazz Festival, UAB Jazz Festival, Savannah Swing Festival, Jazz in the Park and Red Mountain Theatre. He also plays guitar with Hoover’s premier jazz band. Anna was awarded the Helen
Photo special to the Journal
Hoover Teens to Perform with Award-Winning Folk Band
Siblings William and Anna Ayers, both 16, have been playing music for more than 10 years.
Steineker Memorial Scholarship for her skill with the violin. She holds the title of Dekalb County Junior Fiddle Champion and performs with the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra, played in the Alabama All State Youth Orchestra and was a guest soloist for
Birmingham Prelude Strings. The event will begin at 6:45 p.m. at 585 Shades Crest Road in Hoover. The concert will begin at 8 p.m. and tickets are $12. For more information, visit moonlightonthemtn.com. ❖
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NEWS
United Soccer League Establishing Pro Team in Birmingham Beginning in 2019 The United Soccer League will be bringing a professional soccer team to Birmingham. The new team will be up and running for the 2019 season, USL officials said in a press release. “Birmingham is an ideal market for USL, clicking off all of the criteria we require in a new expansion market,” CEO Alec Papadakis said in a statement. “We welcome the club’s owners to the USL family and are excited for the plans they have in store for the Magic City. Soccer fans in Birmingham will experience all the excitement of a first-class professional club, with the full support of the USL league office” The owners of the new club are Jeff Logan, co-owner of the Birmingham Barons baseball team; James Outland, founding and managing partner of New Capital Partners; and Lee Styslinger III, chairman and chief executive officer of Altec Inc. The three see the soccer team as a tool for feeding Birmingham’s growth trend, according to the release. Morgan Copes, co-founder of the Birmingham Hammers soccer team, has been hired as vice president of USL Birmingham. “The momentum for a professional soccer team in Birmingham all started with a couple of good buddies and a few beers,” Copes said. “To
Dawson Welcomes New Senior Pastor
Photo special to the Journal
Play On
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
The owners of the new club are, from left, Lee Styslinger III, chairman and chief executive officer of Altec Inc.; James Outland, founding and managing partner of New Capital Partners; and Jeff Logan, co-owner of the Birmingham Barons baseball team.
now have a USL team here is amazing. I still have to tell people to ‘pinch me’ because it doesn’t feel real. “In addition to the Hammers, Birmingham soccer fans’ enthusiastic support was just as, if not more, important, and they are now being rewarded for those efforts,” Copes said. The club is operating as USL Birmingham until its official name and crest and other branding elements are developed. Details on the team’s home venue also are in the works. Birmingham city planning leaders and USL representatives, are working together on the most effective field solution, with a downtown location for the stadium the preferred option, according to the release. “We want to be in or near the center of the city and have walkable amenities nearby. That is our goal, and we are working on it,” said Copes.
“Having a first-rate match day experience for our supporters is a high priority for us.” Birmingham Mayor William Bell applauded the addition of pro soccer to Birmingham’s roster of sports teams. “The USL’s selection of Birmingham speaks directly to our recognition as a world-class sports city,” Bell said. “We are very appreciative of the investment by Mr. Logan, Mr. Outland and Mr. Styslinger in bringing professional soccer to the city, and we look forward to working with them and the USL leadership to ensure that we field a team that will bring us many championships.” Soccer fans won’t have to wait for official USL play to begin in 2019. USL will be fielding a Premier Development League season next year in a runup to the start of pro soccer the following year. —Virginia Martin
Dawson Memorial Baptist Church members in a vote Aug. 6 named Dr. David Eldridge, below, to be their next senior pastor. He currently is pastor at First Baptist Church Clinton in Clinton, Mississippi. Eldridge has a bachelor of arts in Christian studies from Mississippi College in Clinton, a master of divinity from Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, and a Ph.D. in preaching from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans, La. Before serving at First Baptist Church Clinton, Eldridge was pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Tupelo, Mississippi, First Baptist Okolona in Okolona, Mississippi, and Eastlawn Baptist Church in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Eldridge also served as associate pastor of Pineywood Baptist Church in Gardendale. While in college, he served as a student minister, college minister, youth minister and activities minister in local churches and was a summer missionary in Wales, UK. Eldridge is married to Danielle Robertson Eldridge, and they have three children: Hayden, Luke and Jonathan. ❖
Homewood GreenSpace Initiative Gains Momentum
Photo special to the Journal
By Sarah Kuper
At a recent neighborhood meeting, Homewood resident Henry Hughes, left, looks over plans for a proposed pocket park to replace the public safety building in downtown Homewood, with landscape architect Jane Reed Ross, who developed the rendering.
The push for a greener downtown Homewood is picking up speed and support as members of the Homewood GreenSpace Initiative hold more meetings for officials, residents and merchants. Leading up to an Aug. 28 presentation to the Homewood City Council, organizers have been spreading information and garnering support throughout all of Homewood’s five wards. Advocates have been hosting meetings in their homes, inviting their respective council representatives to talk about the initiative. The group’s chief objective at this time is to persuade city leaders to wait before selling the downtown public safety building and consider turning the lot into a greenspace. Leaders estimate each home meeting has had about 30 attendees interested in pursuing the discussion. Homewood GreenSpace Initiative organizer Roxanne Batson said council members seem to agree that more green areas in Homewood would benefit the city. “They not only listened to residents but also asked questions of their
own to learn more about what the residents would like for their downtown,” she said. In addition to these in-home meetings attended by business and city leaders, organizers are using social media sites like Facebook and Nextdoor to make announcements and post information. Recent posts include summaries of ward meetings and announcements of upcoming events. The page also posts
Jeff Underwood, a former City Council president, and Rick Batson, architect and Homewood resident, will make the presentation. It will include a video by Brad White of Luckie & Co. links to news of other similarly situated cities that have developed pocket parks in their downtowns. Organizers are using information and questions raised during these
meetings and online to prepare their presentation to the council. “We will share the vision as well as facts and figures on the economic impact that can happen when a greenspace is implemented,” Batson said. Jeff Underwood, a former City Council president, and Rick Batson, architect and Homewood resident, will make the presentation. It will include a video by Brad White of Luckie & Co. Leaders are glad people have been turning out to the ward meetings and voicing their support online, but they are especially eager for people to show up to the City Council meeting Aug. 28. “We are asking for everyone with an interest in greenspace to please attend. It will only be 5-7 minutes total and can have a major impact on the success of the greenspace initiative. The City Council needs to know that there is big resident and merchant support for this, so we need everybody!” Batson said. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. at Rosewood Hall. For more information, find Homewood Green Initiative on Facebook. ❖
Photo special to the Journal
8 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Birmingham Jewish Federation Executive Director to Also Lead the LJCC
Already a fixture in the Over the Mountain Jewish community, Richard Friedman now has an even bigger role. As of Aug. 8, he is executive director of not just the Birmingham Jewish Federation, but also the Levite Jewish Community Center. He replaced former Executive Director Betsy Lynch, who is the new CEO of San Diego’s JCC. While the BJF always has served as the local Jewish community’s central fundraising, community relations and community development agency, it will now work closer than ever with the LJCC. Staff of the two agencies will begin working collectively to increase efficiencies and heighten the organizations’ impact. Friedman said that while it may take some time to work out the new arrangement, he believes the closer partnership will benefit the entire Jewish community. “It all won’t be perfect; I can promise you that. But I also can promise you that I will work as hard as I can to merit your faith and support as we lead our JCC into the next phase of its glorious history.” Friedman called the LJCC’s recent hosting of the Maccabi Games, a national sports event for Jewish teens, an “extraordinary” event. He said he hopes the games’ spirit of glory and enrichment continues into this new partnership.
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 9
NEWS Vestavia Hills to Host Community Program on Teen Anxiety
Triumph Services Celebrates 10 Years
The Help the Hills Coalition will be holding a “Stress, Anxiety and our Teens” community resource event on Sept. 19. Formed after combining the Vestavia Hills Board of Education’s Drug Awareness Task Force and Leadership Vestavia Hills’ Help the Hills group, the coalition serves to prevent and reduce substance abuse in the city’s youth. Headlining the event will be Dr. Al Saunders, director of the Wellspring Clinic and frequent speaker at local parent awareness meetings, where he provides individual, marital and family therapy. Saunders specializes in anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorders, depression and impulse control disorders. Discussion topics will include the causes, effects and treatment of anxiety and stress disorders in teens, the role social media and smartphones play in inducing anxiety and its links to drug and alcohol use and abuse. The event will begin at 5 p.m. at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church in Tyson Hall. A community resource fair will kick off the evening and the program will begin at 6 p.m. For more information, email helpthehillscoalition@gmail.com or visit helpthehills.org.
On July 27, Triumph Services celebrated 10 years of serving individuals with developmental disabilities by honoring the “Original 16” participants and revealing a new look. Aloft, Soho Square hosted Triumph’s celebration. Over the past decade, Triumph has equipped hundreds of individuals who have developmental disabilities such as autism with the tools to live and work independently. The organization was formed in the summer of 2007 when a local walk-in clinic that served adults with developmental disabilities closed. Brooke Bowles, founder and executive director, was out of a job and wondered what was going to happen to the people who regularly came to the clinic. On Aug. 1, 2007, Bowles, a few staff members and 16 individuals with developmental disabilities moved to a new clinic in Five Points South. Four offices and an expansion to Montgomery followed to create Triumph as it is today. Triumph recently took on a new look, crafted by Jade Foster of Context A3 with the influence of the marketing team at Triumph. The new logo has mountains representing Triumph’s five programs: supported employment, social skills training, independent living/ wellness, counseling and transition. For more information, visit triumphservices.org. ❖
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Photo special to the Journal
10 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Last year’s Vestavia Hills Elementary Central Helping Hands in the Hills team, headed up by guidance counselor Kellie Knight, pictured above far left, included fourth and fifth grade students and faculty members as well as their families helping a senior couple complete some much needed yard work. Below, Mike Perley and his daughter Jessica were among more than 300 volunteers who came together for the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce’s annual Helping Hands in the Hills community service day.
Lend A Helping Hand Vestavia Hills Community Service Day Brings City Together
By Emily Williams
Leadership Lessons
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
On Sept. 9, teams of volunteers made up of families, friends, coworkers and students ranging from preschoolers to senior citizens will be taking over the city of Vestavia Hills to lend a helping hand to community members in need. Last year, more than 300 volunteers came together for the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce’s annual Helping Hands in the Hills community service day. The chamber hopes to surpass those numbers this year, bringing together more volunteers to complete more projects for local residents who need a little extra help around their homes, whether that means laying pine straw, painting or mending a fence. For Crossfit Mudtown owner Lainey Rodgers, the event provides a space for businesses like her own to give back to the community they serve. “The city needs a place we can all be proud of and coming together to better it through volunteer work is a great way to do that,” she said. She was introduced to the event through her involvement with the chamber while looking for ways to volunteer in Vestavia Hills. “Last year, the family we helped provided us lunch afterwards in their home,” Rodgers said. “We all ate together telling stories and getting to know each other. It was a great way to end the day.” Just as she did last year, Rodgers is pulling together a team of volunteers from the gym’s membership to help. With Crossfit being a high-intensity strength and conditioning program, whoever the team is paired with for Helping Hands can expect to have all of its heavy-lifting handled. “We like to put our ‘functional fitness’ to good use!” she said.
“When we, the administrators and I, heard about Helping Hands in the Hills, we immediately knew we wanted our students to be part of giving back to our community,” she said.
“We work hard in the gym and it’s neat to be able to transfer that spirit of work ethic from exercise to helping people.” The service day has become an opportunity not only to give back to the Vestavia Hills community, but also to teach younger generations the importance of community service. Taking advantage of the opportunity to help students get more involved in their city, Vestavia Hills Elementary Central guidance counselor Kellie Knight is pulling together a Helping Hands team of fourth- and fifth-grade students for the second year. “As a school counselor, I feel that it is very important to teach children at a young age to think of others and to serve others in need,” she said. The service day complements a program that already was in place at the school. Throughout the month of February, VHEC celebrates “Serve Month,” and each classroom adopts and participates in a community service project.
In addition to teaching kids ways to help their community, this year’s event pairs nicely with the school’s newest leadership initiative: iLead. The initiative is being used to help students learn various types of leadership skills that help build a more successful future, Knight said. Helping Hands will help teach participants the importance of leadership in service. As a bonus, Knight has noticed that the students’ involvement in Helping Hands extends outside of the school walls, with many of the kids’ families joining in on the service day. In fact, Knight’s own family gets involved. Her husband and two daughters joined in last year to help the team clean up the yard of an elderly couple who could not maintain the space themselves. At the end of the day, Knight said it was rewarding not only to see how much the team had helped the couple, but also how the work brought the team closer. “The greater reward was in the relationships built throughout the day,” she said. “Families serving together with other families. VHEC teachers and faculty members created new relationships and friendships that might have never crossed paths otherwise.” The third annual Helping Hands in the Hills event will kick off at 8:30 a.m. with a breakfast at the Wald Park pool pavilion. After dispersing to complete various projects around the city, volunteers are invited to reconvene at the pool for lunch. To register a team or request a project for volunteers to complete, visit vestaviahills.org/helping-hands-in-the-hills/ or call 823-5011. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 11
LIFE
Scouts Earn Boy Scouts Grand Slam of High Adventure Award
ASFA Grad Brings Art Exhibition to School’s Gallery
Starting Aug. 24, the Alabama School of Fine Arts will be showcasing an exhibition of artwork created by graduate Corey Dunlap called Bump + Billow. As a seventh-grader, Dunlap entered Alabama School of Fine Arts searching for something deeper than his public school had been able to offer. According to him, painting and drawing weren’t natural gifts, but he did have the spirit of an artist and the drive to create and question. After spending six years at ASFA, Dunlap went on to pursue visual arts at Tufts University in the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. He now is in the final year of his pursuit of a master of
Dunlap has exhibited in group shows such as SoCal Biennial at the San Diego Art Institute; Hite Art Institute at the University of Louisville; Embassy Gallery in Edinburgh, Scotland; and Chazen Art Museum in Madison, Wisconsin.
Photo special to the Journal
On June 28, Dylan Calvin, Jonathan Dinkel, Nick Loukotka and Christian Pegouske, four Boy Scouts from Troop 23 in Hoover, returned from completing the Northern Tier High Adventure trek in Canada. The nine-day, 100-plus-mile canoe trek through the upper waters and marsh lands of Manitoba, Canada earned the scouts the Grand Slam of High Adventure Award. To earn this award, a Scout must fulfill specific requirements at all four of the Boy Scouts of America High Adventure camps. In July 2014, at the age of 13, these Scouts attended the Paul R. Christian High Adventure Base at the Summit, in West Virginia, where they participated in the River Trek on the New River. The following year, in June 2015, they traveled west to Cimarron, New Mexico, to attend the Philmont Scout Ranch. Their 11-day, 80-plus-mile trek carrying 60-pound back packs took them to the 12,441-foot summit of Baldy Mountain and to the top of the famous Tooth of Time Mountain. In June 2016, the Scouts traveled south to the Florida Keys to attend the Florida Sea Base Brinton Environmental Center High Adventure camp. The week-long adventure included mastering the teamwork required to sail a 45-foot vessel, go deep sea fishing and snorkel coral reefs during the day and at night. They
From left: Jonathan Dinkel, Nick Loukotka, Dylan Calvin, and Christian Pegouske.
also spent one day and night camping on Big Munson Island, a primitive mangrove island. On June 16, these Scouts headed north on their fourth and final High Adventure trek. A float plane air-lifted them from their base camp in Bissett, Canada, to Scout Lake. The scouts carried 65-pound bags while they paddled, rode rapids, portaged through woods and swamps, carried canoes and gear over 20-foot granite rocks and even beaver dams. Fortunately, they had time to relax a bit, catching fresh fish for dinner on a few occasions. On their 10th day, they arrived back at Scout Lake in time for the float plane to pick them up for their return to civilization. Approximately 15,000 Scouts attend BSA High Adventure camps annually. Of these, about 200 will complete the requirements for the Grand Slam of High Adventure Award. These four boys are the first members of Troop 23 and the first in the Vulcan District to have reported earning this award. ❖ fine arts at the University of California San Diego. Though his focus has been in sculpture, last year he began to dedicate his time to learning Blender, an open source 3D creation suite. The works he will show at his exhibition, Bump + Billow, explores the space between the physical and the virtual in a new series of sculpture and digital prints. “Taking hints from grid artists Sol LeWitt and surrealists like Dalí, Dunlap’s work is, quite literally, guttural in nature,” said art critic Seth Combs. “There is a level of playfulness to the pieces, which often incorporate geometrical torus shapes as well, and the choice of colors harkens back to ‘80s pop art movements like the Memphis Group, but make no mistake, Dunlap is a serious artist who deserves local and national attention.” Dunlap has exhibited in group shows such as SoCal Biennial at the San Diego Art Institute; Hite Art Institute at the University of Louisville; Embassy Gallery in Edinburgh, Scotland; and Chazen Art Museum in Madison, Wisconsin. He also has had solo exhibitions at How’s Howard? in Boston, Massachusetts; In the Pines Gallery in Jackson, Wyoming; and Howard Art Project in Boston, Massachusetts. He recently received a fellowship that took him to Iceland, where he did a SIM Residency and was part of a group exhibition. An opening reception for Dunlap’s Bump + Billow will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Vulcan Materials Gallery at ASFA. The show will run through Oct. 21, and gallery hours are weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. ❖
“Ticia Payne was a real trooper throughout our home buying and selling experience.” Alex and Nathan Bishop with their son Judah.
When Alex and Nathan Bishop decided to sell their first home and buy a bigger place with room for their growing family, they turned to ARC Realty agent Ticia Payne for guidance. “We listed our home with Ticia and she sold it in four days,” says Alex, “so we needed to find a new home quickly!” Throughout the process, the Bishops knew Ticia was looking out for their best interests, pointing out things they may have overlooked. “She’s a true professional,” says Nathan. “We’ve already referred her to our friends.” Ticia says being a part of ARC Realty is a key to her real estate business. “We’re a relationship company, and everyone at ARC wants me to be successful. That’s special.” For more information on buying or selling a home with Ticia Payne, visit www.arcrealtyco.com.
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12 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
SOCIAL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Dr. Elizabeth Peters Event Chair Taste of Birmingham, and Joshua Peters Birmingham Boys Choir member.
From left, Renee Schneider, Martha and Fletcher Yielding, Ruth Miller and Ashley Bryan.
TASTE OF SUCCESS
L
Birmingham Boys Choir Serves Up Annual Fundraiser Tasting
Birmingham Boys Choir member William Yielding, left, with Lee Yielding.
ocal restaurants served up signature dishes for guests to try at the 7th annual Taste of Birmingham at The Club on Aug. 8. The event benefitted the Birmingham Boys Choir. Guests were treated to silent auctions, raffles and tastings provided by 24 competitors. Bistro V took home the Taster’s Choice award, Taco Mama was named the Chorister’s Choice, Nothing Bundt Cakes won the best sweet dish and Little Savannah Restaurant and Bar won best savory dish. Additional restaurants showcased include Cajun Steamer, Cantina Laredo, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Chicken Salad Chick, Cocina Superior, Cowboy Chicken, The Club, Grille 29, The Happy Catering Company, Holler and Dash, Saw’s BBQ, Seasons 52, Silvertron Cafe, Magic City Sweet Ice and Edolyn’s Pies. During the evening, the Birmingham Boys Choir took to the stage and performed a selection of songs, dedicating a piece to retired BBC business director Susan Simon. The evening was organized by Taste of Birmingham chair Dr. Elizabeth Peters and supported by BBC staff Margaret Stinnett, Nancy Kimberly and Tricia Simpson and auction organizers Jennifer Davis Dent and JoAnn Davis. Tastings were washed down by craft beer from Cahaba Brewing Company, Ozan Cellars and Vineyards wines and coffee from O’Henry’s. ❖
Patsy Cottrell, Glenda Brantley, Sally Ream, Sue Hoggarth and Sherry Armstrong.
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Big and little stars rocked the halls of UAB’s Alys Stephens Center on Aug. 5 at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham’s annual A Night of Big Stars fundraiser. Leading the evening’s events was emcee Jack Royer, anchor with WIAT CBS42. The evening began with a VIP meet and greet with special guest performer Taylor Hicks before guests mingled for a pre-show dinner by Kathy G. and Company and a silent auction that featured packages ranging from spa experiences to dog boarding. The main event for the evening, a group of the programs’ littles joined together for a song and dance and other performances that showcased their talents. Once the littles had lit up the stage, Hicks performed. A live auction was led by Guin Robinson and featured items ranging from spa packages to dog boarding. Big ticket items included a vacation package to the Bahamas, a Sonoma, California wine experience, tickets to the Masters Golf Tournament and more. In addition to showcasing program participants, CEO Sue Johnson and board President Dr. Iwan Alexander
20s
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Shine Bright
BBBS of Greater Birmingham Hosts Night of Big Stars
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 13
SOCIAL
Taylor Hicks and Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Sue Johnson.
Megan Montgomery and Courtney Walker.
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presented awards to bigs and littles of the year. The Founder’s Legacy Award was presented to longtime supporters Judy and Bill Lewis. Honorary chairmen for the evening’s festivities were Robert Simon, CEO and president of Corporate Realty,
and Rob Burton, CEO of Hoar Construction, who was represented at the event by his son Tucker. Funds raised through the event support the organization’s efforts to match children facing adversity with adult mentors. ❖
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Journal photos by Jordan Wald
14 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
From left: Ben and George Buchanan with artist Elizabeth Vander Kamp.
Sun and Fun Homewood Library Foundation Hosts Annual Block Party Fundraiser
Community members enjoyed a sunny afternoon of fun at the Homewood Library for the fourth annual Block Party fundraiser, hosted by the Homewood Library Foundation. Headlining the event for adults was a food tasting, which included samples from local haunts including Dave’s Pizza, Demetri’s BBQ, Homewood Gourmet, Little Donkey, Nabeel’s Cafe, Piggly Wiggly, Shiki, Soho Social, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Urban Cookhouse. Music for the festivities was provided by Mike Sheehan and Eric Watters. While parents dined and grooved, kids enjoyed bounce houses, a climbing wall, face painting, chalk drawing and more. ❖ Clockwise, from above: Gabrielle and Robin Fuller; William and Theo Roshell; and Amy and Owen Buchanan.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 15
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
SOCIAL
Jennifer Shaw, Jennifer Majewski and Anne Wallace McSorley. From left: Shaun and Ashley Cosby, Jennifer Eagen, Whitney and Blake Henson.
Fenders and Fireflies Easter Seals Pulls off a Success with Annual Fundraiser
The annual Fenders and Fireflies event, hosted by Easter Seals of Birmingham, spelled success as guests arrived to festivities Aug. 11 at Old Car Heaven. The band The Onlys provided music for the evening as guests sipped signature Firefly cocktails and mingled during a silent auction. A live auction offered the opportunity to bid on big-ticket items, including three vacation packages to Disney World, a tour of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and a trip to Charleston, South Carolina.
In addition, guests had a chance to test their skills with a bow and arrow at an archery station and participate in a wine pull raffle. The funds raised at the event benefit the organization’s mission to support and improve the lives of children and adults with special needs through its clinics and offer monetary support for participants with financial needs. The pediatric clinic offers speech, physical and occupational therapy; while the adult clinic gets individuals into the workforce with job training, resume prep and technology classes. ❖
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In 1913, we sold our first electricity to several hundred customers in Talladega from our Jackson Shoals plant. Today, the way you use Above: Stephen Gunn, Holly Gunn, Samantha Ebert and Paul Ebert. Left: Kattie Baker and Rebecca Smith.
energy has changed, but it’s still our business to make your home comfortable and efficient. Through our energy efficiency programs, we’ve reduced demands to the equivalent of more than 500,000 homes. For energy-saving tips that could help make your home more comfortable and efficient, call 1.800.990.APCO (2726) or visit AlabamaPower.com/tips.
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Bryan Kitchens and Scott Morton with David Higgins, Easter Seals of Birmingham executive director.
16 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL
The Village Poodle 2410 Canterbury Road Mountain Brook Village | 423-5443
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
FALL TRUNK SHOW Featuring A
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B
E
Y
&
G
L
A
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From left: Jeremiah Gage (Shades Valley Mountie), Mary Clyde Mayfield Teague, Caroline Massey Daniel, Sharon Comer McIlwan, June Hayden Wikingstad, Karen Brantley Dobson, Tricia Ward Rowlen, Dale Hamill King, Donna McAuley Pugh, Sandra Sirles Sweatt, Candi Shirley Lee and Kelley Shaw Gage.
MY OLD SCHOOL
Shades Valley High Class of ‘67 Celebrates 50th Reunion About 130 members of Shades Valley High School’s class of 1967 THURSDAY, SEPT. 7 FRIDAY, SEPT. 8 gathered at Mountain Brook Country Club 1pm - 6pm 10am - 4:30pm on Aug. 12 for a 50th reunion celebration. Come by and meet designers The club was decorated to look like the Abbey Glass and Claire Flowers old Shades Valley High School. The living room became the teacher’s lounge; the dining room was the lunchroom; private dining was the home economics room; the To: Beverly ballroom was the gymFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., nasium; and the sun205-824-1246, fax room served as the Date: August 2017 principal’s office. Guests were greeted This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Blair Cox, Helen Edwards, Betty Jo and Joe Adams. at the entrance by the Aug. 24, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. school’s Mountie mascots and given name tags showing their senior picture, and with bleachers, and music from the band Pink Cadillac. Please make sure all information is correct, then they proceeded to the teacher’s lounge for a cocktail Guests danced the night away and some even took part in hour. a surprise dance contest. including address and phone The number! Shades Valley Marching Band gave a surprise perFestivities were planned by a committee that was led formance in the parking lot, exiting their bus and marching by class President/chairman Blair Cox, with Bimi; decoraPlease initial and fax back within 24 hours. to the entrance of the club. tions chair Kelley Shaw Gage, with Pete; and classmate If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, in the lunchroom, featuring a medDinner was served list chair Tom McWhorter of Dallas, Texas. your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. ley of sliders including grilled chicken, beef tender and The planning committee included: Garland Cook cheeseburgers. As the party dined on lunch trays at tables Smith with Lathrop, Earl Evans with Maggie, Joe Thank you for your prompt attention. decorated with napkin holders, they listened to “announce- Adams and Betty Jo Waller Adams, Tricia Ward ments from the principal.” Rowlen, David Reese, Paul Angell and Linda Logan Shrimp and grits, gumbo and corn pones were served in Turner with Fred. the Principal’s Office, where guests could grab a bite, type The decorations committee included Fran Sherrill on a typewriter and view a portrait of Principal Dr. Frank Glendinning with Rob, Caroline Massey Daniel with Peake. The meal concluded with Mountie decorated cakes Robert, Betsy Kinney Daniels of Pensacola with Richie, in the home ec room. and Carole Rayfield Joyner of Charlotte, North Carolina, The evening concluded in the “gymnasium,” furnished with Dink. ❖
!
Come as you are. You’ll fit right in. SUNDAYS AT 8:15 & 10:45 AM
Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church 5080 Cahaba Valley Trace Birmingham, AL 35242
#wheregraceabounds Beth and Bob Hard.
Paul Angell and Earl Evans.
Doug Ferguson and Mary Stout King.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 17
SOCIAL
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Caroline Hornsby and Bailee Bryant.
From left: Alison Berman, Ronne Hess and Dr. Gary Edwards.
Stories of Hope
United Ability Hosts Inaugural Fundraiser More than 300 guests gathered at the Lyric Theatre Aug. 5 for United Ability’s inaugural Journey of Hope event, which raised money to support the advancement of medicine, technology and therapies for people living with disabilities. The evening gave special recognition to long-time United Ability supporter and champion Ronne Hess. A video showcased during the evening’s festivities told the story of three individuals who have a special relationship with the organization. Rachel
Dickey, 19 years old, has been part of the organization’s program since the age of 1 and now helps guide younger children through the speech and therapy programs that helped her. Following a seizure at age 12, Mark Doss Jr. and his family began travelling 120 miles to and from the clinic to receive care. The third story was of Caroline Hornsby, who was able to transition to kindergarten this year with the help of the education and therapy programs at United Ability.
Jack Gomme Purses The best French travel and everyday bag!
Melanie Petro and Jack Schaeffer.
The emcee for the evening was Dr. Michael Saag. Throughout the program, commentary and historical background about the organization was provided by Linda Friedman, Ed Robinson, Sameta and John Kemp and Gordon Richmond. Adding to the excitement of the evening were performances by the dance company Catapult and an array of food served up by Shindigs Catering. ❖
available at 271 Rele Street Lane Parke • Mountain Brook 871-1965 • shopbprince.com
To: From: Date:
Betsy Prince Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 August This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOU August 24, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 8
Please make sure all information is cor Including address and phone numbe Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
18 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL/WEDDINGS
Davies-Koullas
From left: Mary Katherine Bushnell, Harris and Grace Williams.
Dancing for the Kids
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Boys and Girls Clubs Host Dance Competition Fundraiser
Demi and Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Kara Richards and Nadav Raviv.
In the style of the popular television competition “Dancing With the Stars,” the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Alabama paired local celebrities with professional dancers for its annual Dancing For the Future Stars fundraiser, Aug. 4 at The Club. Leading guests through an evening featuring dinner, dancing and a silent auction was emcee Javante Ingram, ABC 33/40 anchor. The five participants in the dance competition were paired up with Jackie and Fabian Sanchez of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Hoover. Awards were given to the top three fundraisers and top three judges’ choices. Dancers were Ronnie O. Rice, Karim Shamsi-Basha, Gage Smith,
Eddie and Teresa Odom.
Ashley Watkins Umbach and Angela King. At the event, the Phoenix Club of Birmingham, a supporter of local Boys and Girls Clubs, presented a check for $65,000 to the organization. The donated funds, as well as all funds raised through the event, will support the organization’s efforts to provide facilities, programs and leadership opportunities to local youth. ❖
Dr. and Mrs. Brian William Davies of Mountain Brook announce the engagement of their daughter, Ellen Elizabeth Davies, to Nicholas James Koullas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Michael Koullas of Auburn. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. Robert Emil Hahn and the late Mrs. Edwina Swinson Hahn of Columbus, Georgia, and the late Mr. and Mrs. David William Davies of Vestavia Hills. Miss Davies is a 2009 graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a 2013 magna cum laude graduate of Auburn University’s Honors College, where she received a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences. She was tapped for membership in the Order of Omega honor society, Rho Lambda, and is a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Miss Davies is a thirdyear medical student at the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Evanthia Koullas and the late Mr. Michael Christopher Koullas of Limassol, Cyprus, and Mr. and Mrs. Raymond and Margaret Ann Burks of Mableton, Georgia. Mr. Koullas is a 2009 graduate of Auburn High School and a 2013 graduate of Auburn University’s Honors College as an honors scholar. He received a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences. He is a member of Sigma Chi fraternity. Mr. Koullas is a third-year medical student at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dothan. The wedding is planned for April 21, 2018, at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook.
To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 823-9646.
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New Fall Arrivals
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
FASHION
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 19
fall fashion 2017
What the Smart Crowd Will be Wearing
The kids are back in school and we’re ready for football weather and fall fashions to arrive!
Photos by Scott Butler.
JOURNAL PHOTOS BY LEE WALLS JR.
HOMETOWN PRIDE Homewood Residents Create New Line of Patriot Apparel
By Emily Williams Football season is nearly here – a time when school spirit runs high, bringing students and families together on Friday nights to cheer for their local teams. This fall, Homewood fans will have the opportunity to expand their game-day wardrobe with the arrival of O + M Apparel. The new business is the brainchild of Homewood High School graduate Owen Ferguson and Matt Collins, a Homewood resident and senior recreation leader for the city’s Parks and Recreation department. Before partnering on their business, Collins and Ferguson got to know each other through Trinity United Methodist Church. Collins volunteers for the church’s youth group, which Ferguson attended as a high school student and began volunteering with during his collegiate career at BirminghamSouthern College. “We probably first connected over playing pick-up basketball, but since have become good friends,” Collins said. “We both believe in investing in your community, especially with youth, and enjoy coaching youth sports.” As their friendship grew, Collins said, their partnership on O + M was “just one of those things.” Ferguson, entering his senior year, was inspired to take on the challenge by a business class and began recruiting Collins as his partner. “My parents are both local artists and my sister works in advertising, so I have a creative bone somewhere inside me,” Collins said. All that was left was to decide what kind of business they wanted to create. O + M grew out of a desire to contribute to the Homewood community, which is home to both of them. “One of the biggest things we like about
The new business is the brainchild of Homewood High School graduate Owen Ferguson, right, and Matt Collins, left, a Homewood resident and senior recreation leader for the city’s Parks and Recreation department.
Homewood is the sense of community and support that people show for our city’s schools, churches, teams, clubs, and citizens,” Collins said. They located a gap, a whole that needed to be filled with in their community. There wasn’t a place to purchase Homewood merchandise; outside of snagging a few teamissued T-shirts in a spirit pack for students participating in school sports. “The people in each of these communities have a great deal of pride for where they live, and we believe want the opportunity to show off their hometown,” Collins said. The pair landed on athletic apparel, something they both are fans of sporting themselves. Instead of producing the same old looks for the Homewood Patriots, they decided to create a new logo for their creations. “The patriot logo itself was something I
came up with as an idea for a project at work and it never got used,” Collins said. “I told Owen about it and he loved the idea so we refined it and went from there.” The logo has a sportier feel that they think will be an even better look when basketball season arrives, as it has a more circular shape. “We hope that our customers start to see a natural branding develop as we come out with newer products,” Collins said. Currently in the company’s inventory are two shirt designs, $20 each; the O + M patriot logo car decal, $5; and an adhesive wallet that features the logo and can be attached to a phone, $10. “Both of our shirts have been received well,” Collins said. “Owen’s favorite, which we have deemed ‘The Wood,’ offers a nickname for our town and has a much more sporty feel, while mine, ‘The Establishment’ has more of a family/everyday look.” Collins and Ferguson are ready to churn out more, including some new ideas for fall and winter. “We would love to work directly with local schools or teams and come up with something unique for them. And while we will always remain loyal to Homewood, we hope to branch out and take some of these ideas to other Over the Mountain communities,” Collins said. The duo hopes to create more unique logos and designs that communities all over the area haven’t been able to find. The O + M name is as much a nod to “Over the Mountain” as it is a nod to their first names. “We have received a lot of support and a lot of positive feedback from people within our community,” Collins said. “We are just trying to reach more and more people and we hope our apparel reflects the spirit of Homewood.” For more information, visit omapparelbham.com. ❖
Amanda Summers is wearing a Garment Dyed eyelet shift dress in Moonshine, $148, and a tassel necklace in Moonshine, $48. Mason Mitchell is wearing an Alabama Polo in Crimson, $79.50, Medium Washed Denim Straight Fit jeans in Hull Blue, $98.50, and the Alabama Club belt, $58. vineyard vines, 970-9758.
Bradley Harrison is wearing classic button-on two-piece red shorts and a cream shirt with red smocking. A navy cardigan with red train appliqué completes his look. His navy tie shoes are by DeOsu. Christine’s Across the Street, 871-6611.
20 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
FASHION
Baylee Edwards, left, is wearing a multi-colored Nike tank, $70, paired with a blue Nike skirt, $50, and Asics Gel Resolution 7 shoes, $140. Her racquet is a Wilson Ultra 100, $220, and she is carrying a Wilson Ultra backpack, $85. Mary Hannah Mackin, right, is wearing a coral Nike tank, $35, coral Nike shorts, $45, and Nike Cage 3 shoes, $130. Her racquet is a Wilson Triad 5, $200, and she is carrying a Wilson red backpack, $88. Player’s Choice Tennis, 985-4989.
Isabel Creveling is wearing a poncho by Made in Italy, $68, and a clear gameday bag by MB Greene, $44. Marguerite's Conceits, 879-2730.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Claire Haley is wearing a scarlet dress by Roos Lorie, $198. Her shoes are by Alberto Fermani Lucciano in cognac suede with a wooden heel, $435, and her bag is a B. May cell phone pouch in red, $125. Abby Norris is wearing black CREA pants, $166, with a white Giada Forte long top, $433, and a blue Malene Birger jacket, $775. Her look is finished with Chie Mihaka ruffled pumps, $425, and a black B. May stripy pouch bag, $425. B. Prince, 871-1965.
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Kay Acton is wearing the JoJo dress by Abbey Glass in winter white, paired with a scarf. She’s seen again, looking smart, in the Glenda Dress in French Paisley and Berry with black piping and an exposed zipper, also by Abbey Glass. Both ensembles are finished with pumps by Claire Flowers, featuring a cushioned sole, no-slip grip and a heel cap that will never get stuck in a crack. The Village Poodle, 423-5443.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 21
FASHION
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Bounty of Booties We are! Come see us! Savannah Sinclair is wearing a Shiraz Revival crop hoodie by Capezio, $53, and Body Wrapper highwaisted black shorts, $26, finished with black EJ2 jazz shoes by Capezio. Taylor Grace Eustice is wearing a Burgundy MC820W leotard from Capezio, $47, and a pair of black warmup booties by Bloch, $46. Applause Dancewear, 871-7837.
On the left, a Pierre Dumas perforated nubuck-wrapped wedge with a velcro closure and a demure peep toe in natural, also available in black, $39.99. On the right, the Sorrento Crimson bootie, a peep toe, block heal, sling back made of soft nubuck by Pierre Dumas, available in black, crimson and taupe, $29.99. Flips Flops and What Nots, 967-7429.
To: Marguerite From: Over the Mountain Journal 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax Date: august
This is your ad proof for Aug. 24, 2017 OTMJ Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible t make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Baylee Edwards is sporting a sleeveless, black and white striped Swiss turtleneck, $53.95, with black denim leggings, $62.95, and a gray Carolena cardigan, $62.95. Her look is complete with a round, clear sling bag, $68.95, and a small Hobo wallet, $78. Blue Willow, 968-0909.
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone nu
1629 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood 871-STEP (7837)
Thank you for your prompt attention.
www.flipflopsandwhatnots.com
4137 White Oak Drive, Cahaba Heights
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JOURNAL PHOTOS BY LEE WALLS JR.
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If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad will run a
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BUSINESS
22 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Smith’s Goes Shopping Jim Glazner Looking for Someone to Buy the Store and Run It Like Mom and Pop Did
By Sam Prickett
‘I need somebody that keeps Smith’s going, has been here … . Someone who understands it and understands people.’ Journal file photo by Maury Wald
It’s been 67 years since Smith’s Variety first opened its doors, and in that time the toy and gift shop has become something of an institution for generations of Mountain Brook families. But change is in store for Smith’s “very soon,” said owner Jim Glazner. He’s looking to sell the business, though he said it’s important that new owners maintain the connection to the community and dedication to service that have made Smith’s special to so many people. “The difference between us and big box stores is I know you,” Glazner said. “I know your face, I know your kids … . We’ve got families that have grown up with us.” Glazner grew up with Smith’s Variety, too. His parents, Lit and Mary Anne, bought the store in 1976, and Jim started working in its storeroom when he was 16, eventually taking a full-time job at the store in 1980. He said his parents instilled in him the guiding principles that they used to shape the business — in particular, an ethos of selflessness and generosity. There’s a seemingly bottomless well of anecdotes Glazner draws from to illustrate those principles, many of which focus on times Lit and Mary Anne stretched the concept of customer service far beyond its typical definition. He remembers a story from his teenage years of his father receiving a call on Christmas Day from a customer who had purchased an electronic pinball machine for his son from Smith’s. He was having difficulty assembling it, he told Jim’s father. Lit decided to drive over to the customer’s house to help. “I said, ‘But Dad, it’s Christmas!’” Glazner said, recalling that he asked why Lit couldn’t just wait until the next day to help. “He said, ‘Jimmy, here’s the deal. That child wanted that
Glazner said he hopes to sell the store by September, and though there is not a confirmed buyer, two employees hope they’ll be able to muster the resources to buy the store themselves. Steve Sudduth, who has worked at Smith’s for 20 years, said that he and his wife, Katherine — who also
Jim Glazner, with his late mother Mary Anne, in a photo taken in 2011. Glazner said he’s looking to sell Smith’s Variety, though he said it’s important that new owners maintain the connection to the community and dedication to service that have made Smith’s special to so many people.
for Christmas. Tomorrow’s too late. This is Christmas Day. This is what he’s waited for.” It’s that spirit of selflessness that makes Smith’s special, Glazner said. People who shop there aren’t just customers; “they’re family.” Lit died in 2003 after a long illness, leaving Mary Anne in charge of the store. Her commitment to helping others remained as strong as ever. When she found out a local child was fighting cancer, Glazner said, she collected donations from customers to help, giving out purple ribbons to be hung outside so that the boy could see all the support he had in the community. There are dozens of examples like this. And even now, he said, people still come up to him with new stories of his mother’s generosity and compassion. She would tell every customer,
A Life Spent Meeting Challenges
Jackson Retiring From The Women’s Fund After Six Years at the Helm Jeanne Jackson is retiring as president and CEO of The Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham at the end of the year, according to a statement from the fund. A search committee for her replacement will be led by outgoing board chairwoman Lisa
even those she had just met, that she loved them, Glazner said, “and she really meant it.” Mary Anne passed away unexpectedly in April, leaving behind a void that has been difficult to fill, both in the lives of the people who loved her and in the day-to-day operations of Smith’s Variety. Her absence, Glazner said, has necessitated the sale of the store. Glazner works full-time at Prescription Aesthetic and Wellness Spa, a Vestavia Hills-based cosmetic medical center that he founded in 2007. The commitments of that job prevent him from dedicating enough time to the store, he said, so he’s begun looking for someone else to take over. Smith’s Variety is listed on LAH Commercial Real Estate’s website for $250,000, which Glazner describes as
“too appealing.” “In an ideal world, you would make money off the sale of something like this,” he says. But he’s more concerned with maintaining the store’s continuity. He plans to help the buyer of the store get their footing, paying off the business’s existing debt and providing free-of-charge consultation. “I’m going to make it to where they can’t fail,” he says. “I could just close the doors if I didn’t want anything to do with it. But I’m going to do everything I can to make it successful.” He feels a responsibility, he said — both to the store’s employees, all of whom have worked at the store for years, if not decades, and to the community as a whole — that Smith’s Variety stays “the way it is.” “That’s not negotiable,” he said. “There’s a tradition to it.”
child care, and support for single mothers and Engel. their children together. “This has been a challenging yet wonderful The approach culminated with the recent six years. I’ve had the privilege of partnering launch of Collaboration Institute with phenomenal community leaders, 3.0, which will create five, one-stop heads of agencies, and incredible two-generational centers that bring board members who work tirelessly agencies together to provide comto bring economic opportunities to prehensive services in one location women and their families,” Jackson to single mothers and their children, said in the statement. “Although I the group most likely to live in povleave with mixed emotions, I am erty. proud that by 2020 our programmatic Jackson joined The Women’s investment in women and girls in Fund in 2011 as a staff of one. Last Birmingham will be over $1 million year, the fund completed a $5 mila year.” lion 20th anniversary campaign. Under Jackson’s leadership, The Jeanne Jackson “With Jeanne’s vision and leaderWomen’s Fund pioneered a two-genship, The Women’s Fund is in its eration approach to fighting poverty strongest position, both financially and prothrough investments in post-secondary educagrammatically since its creation 20 years ago,” tion, workforce development, housing, quality
works at the store — are hoping to buy Smith’s from Glazner. “We’ve been going through several different channels and talking to more investors,” Sudduth says. “We’re still looking for the right people to invest in it… We know how to run this business and manage it, but there are other aspects a little deeper, accounting-wise, that we just need a little expertise. “I think it’s going to work,” Sudduth said. “We’ve learned (how to run this business) from the best, because Jim taught both of us. It’d be a shame for it to go away. Though the Sudduths are still working through the logistics of purchasing Smith’s, Glazner said they “just make sense” as the store’s future owners. “I need somebody that keeps Smith’s going, has been here … . Someone who understands it and understands people,” Glazner said. The store is “my family’s legacy,” he said, and it’s essential that any owner stick to the business philosophy that made Lit and Mary Anne — and Smith’s Variety itself — such beloved parts of their community. It all comes down to how you treat people, Glazner said: “You don’t treat them as just people, you treat them as family.” ❖
said Vicki Briggs, chairwoman of the fund’s board. During her six years with the fund, it has invested more than $1.8 million in increasing the economic security of single mothers; launched Smart Party, one of the first crowdfunding events in Birmingham; and established programs that helped more than 3,400 women since 2013, including 372 single mothers enrolled in post-secondary education. Jackson took the job with The Women’s Fund six years ago, at the age of 60, capping a wide-reaching career. She served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Africa, a water policy analyst at EPA, the environmental staff liaison for then-Gov. Bill Clinton, the president of League of Women Voters of Arkansas, and the head of the Hess Center for Leadership and Service at Birmingham-Southern College. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
It’s on The House
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 23
BUSINESS
Vestavia Hills Native Launches Foodie App for Local Restaurants It’s a question many of us have dreaded at some point, when it’s 5 o’clock and the fridge is running on empty: “Where should we go eat?” Vestavia Hills native Matt Peterson has created an app for that. Peterson’s newest venture, The House, was created to help both customers decide where to eat out and restaurants fill more seats. Unlike foodie apps such as Yelp and UrbanSpoon, which Peterson said are great for out-of-towners who want dining suggestions, The House caters more to the local resident who is looking for great specials at their favorite spots. Instead of scouring multiple websites to find a restaurant’s happy hour, a consumer using the app could scroll through the home page to see what’s going on around town and make reservations, from happy hours to wine Wednesdays to trivia nights. “When you think about it, restaurants are only busy for a small portion of the week,” he said. “So, this is a solution that allows them to market specials and get those seats filled.” In addition to better marketing their specials, when restaurants partner with the app, they have the opportunity to provide consumers
Photo special to the Journal
By Emily Williams
Matt Peterson, pictured left with business partner Matt Harb, has released his newest venture, The House. The app helps customers decide where to eat out and helps restaurants fill more seats.
with special offers. If they are slow on reservations one night, they may send out an offer to The House users for $2 off an entree or a free salad, for instance “They can also limit the amount of users they send the special offer to,” Peterson said. “If they only have five spots to fill, then they can send it to five users.” Another plus for the customer, special offers sent by restaurants are exclusives. So, if you see an offer and reserve it, there is no waiting for a table.
Peterson launched the app first in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he lives; before extending its services to Birmingham. “Birmingham is just a great culinary city, which goes along with the theme we are working with,” he said. “And I know a lot of people in the city and I know the area.” Though the restaurant scene has developed significantly since his days growing up and attending Vestavia Hills High School, Peterson said his personal favorite hot spots when he visits nowadays are in the
Lakeview and Avondale areas, where nightlife is booming. The growing list of restaurants partnering with The House include: Moe’s Original BBQ, Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint, Hattie B’s, Little Savannah, Cashio Meatball Market, Bird’s Pizza and Bar, Babalu Tapas and Tacos, Five, Ovenbird, Iron City Grill, Ghost Train Brewing Co., The Wine Loft, Paramount Bar, Pies and Pints, The Louis at Pizitz Food Hall, Chez Fon Fon, The J. Clyde, The Blue Monkey, 5 Point Public House, Bottega, La Paz, Mafiaoza’s, Otey’s, Basil, Brick and Tin, CharBar, Mudtown, FoodBar, The Ridge Eat and Drink, Johnny Brusco’s, Jackson’s, Soho Social, Red Hill Brewing Company, Little Donkey, Taco Mama, Jinsei, Post Office Pies, Avondale Common House, Cahaba Brewing, Taco Mama, Trim Tab Brewing, Side Bar and Woodlawn Cycle Cafe. Peterson has high hopes of expanding the app’s services in the Birmingham area and to other Alabama cities. App development is in the early stages, and partnering
restaurants do not yet include those in the Hoover area past the Summit shopping center; but there are definite plans to expand. Peterson also sees great potential for The House in Huntsville. He said he needs to better familiarize himself with the city, but he thinks it could be a good fit. New features are also on the horizon as far as nightlife suggestions, like live entertainment. Venues could market their live music or a film screening and users could plan a dinner-and-a-show evening with ease right on their phones. “Businesses will also be able to create tags for each type of event. So, if you are looking for drink specials, you just search that and you can see everything,” he said. The House is available through the App Store and Google Play. It is under the name The House-Exclusive Offers, Happy Hours & Specials; but if you simply type in The House Birmingham, it should appear at the top of the search list. For more information, visit eatonthehouse.com. ❖
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24 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
SCHOOLS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Added Success
OTM Math Teams Raise the Roof at Mu Alpha Theta National
welcomes our
newest physicians Clockwise from top:
CLAYTON DUGAN, MD Brook Highland ELIZABETH IRONS, MD Brook Highland JULIA STEWART, MD Hoover
Drs. Dugan, Irons and Stewart are now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years
Greenvale Pediatrics — Brook Highland 101 Eagle Ridge Drive Birmingham, Alabama 35242
205.995.1004
Drs. Dugan and Irons join these physicians: Jamie Odrezin, MD Victoria Anderson, MD Bryson Waldo, MD Darby McElderry, MD William Whitaker, MD Kelly McMillian, MD
Greenvale Pediatrics — Hoover 5295 Preserve Parkway, Suite 100 Hoover, Alabama 35244
205.987.4444
Dr. Stewart joins these physicians: Amy McCollum, MD Toren Anderson, MD John Petelos, MD Dan Carter, MD Jeff Stone, MD John Cortopassi, MD Brian Dudgeon, MD
greenvalepediatrics.com
Of the 60 schools participating in the 47th annual Mu Alpha Theta National Convention, held July 17-21 in Buffalo, New York, Vestavia Hills High School, above, was named fifth in the nation and Hoover ranked 16th.
went home with top 10 rankings in various categories: Eileen Liu won ninth in open codes and ciphers. William Zhang took fifth in Mu-level limits and derivatives, second in Mu-level multivariate calculus and seventh in open number theory. Allan Feng won eighth in Mu-level applications. Genki Nishimura was awarded fourth in Theta-level functions and fifth in Theta-level conic sections. Keene Zhang earned seventh in open math and economics. Top marks in Theta-level geometry went to Courtney Flurry, first; Eric Wang, ninth; and David Wang, tenth. In Theta-level circles, perimeters, area and volume, high-ranking students included Eileen Liu, fifth; Basim Naim, sixth; Courtney Flurry, seventh; and David Wang, ninth. In their respective levels of oral presentation, ranking students included Rachel Ding, first in Mu-level; Sidhvi Reddy, sixth in Alpha-level; and Allen Li, fourth in Theta-level. For Theta-level triangles, highmarks went to Jack Lin, second; Courtney Flurry, eighth; and David
Wang, ninth. Gemini awards went to teams of two at various levels: Ahmed Farrukh and Wendy Jiang, tenth for Mu; Laura-Martin Levensailor and Stephen Soto, ninth for Alpha; and Bryce Hutchinson and Nicholas Muscolino, eighth for Theta.
Hoover High
The Hoover High School team was represented by 11 students and led by teachers Laura Entrekin and Martin Rushano. According to the teachers, the students worked all summer in preparation for the week-long convention. Hoover team members include Jason Lee, Amy Zhang, Mariam Massoud, Emily Su, Daniel Michael, Shezhan Maredia, Joseph Bearden, David Xi, Abhinav Venkatesan, Will Couch and Isaiah Lee. Top rankings for Hoover went to Jason Lee, ninth in oral presentation; Emily Su, fifth in poster presentation; David Xi, eighth in number theory; and Abhinav Venkatesan, ninth in oral presentation. ❖
Homewood Star Spangled Girls to Host Dance Clinic
Students in grades ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade are invited to participate in a dance clinic Aug. 26 hosted by Homewood High School’s dance team. The Star Spangled Girl Dance Clinic will be held at the high school’s Fine Arts Wing. Students will be divided into small groups according to grade level to learn dance routines. Festivities also will include games and arts and crafts activities. Participants will be invited to perform during the first half of the varsity football game Sept. 1 at Waldrop Stadium in West Homewood. The clinic will be held from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., followed by a performance in the large auditorium, next to the baseball field, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. For more information on the clinic, contact Jennifer Ayers at 871-9663 or jayers@ homewood.k12.al.us.
Journal file photo
GREENVALE PEDIATRICS
When it comes to calculating success, the Vestavia Hills High School and Hoover High School math teams top the charts on a national level. Both teams participated in the 47th annual Mu Alpha Theta National Convention, held July 17-21 in Buffalo, New York, joining 700 students representing the top 60 Mu Alpha Theta schools in the nation. Mu Alpha Theta is a national high school and collegiate honor society dedicated to recognizing and providing scholarship for excellence in mathematics. Of the 60 schools participating, VHHS was named fifth in the nation and Hoover ranked 16th. The VHHS team included 38 students and was led by mathematics department chair Todd Taylor, along with Susan Gifford and Adam Kolasa. “Participation on math team gives students a chance to see many types of problems and to see various approaches to the problems,” Taylor said. “The competition itself gives the students more motivation to learn the material. If students are particularly good at a certain topic, the students will gravitate to learning the material more in-depth.” According to Taylor, the students meet before and during school each day and two to four nights per week for about two hours during June and July. “Additionally, they have a packet of about five practice tests for each type of test they will take at the convention,” Taylor said. “This year, five of our 38 attendees were not ‘fulltime’ math team members.” For a student, having the opportunity to travel to a convention is somewhat of a reward. Taylor added that for many students and teachers, this is a summer vacation. “Our students get to meet other students with the same interests, and they get to meet students who may end up at the same college as them,” Taylor said. For teachers who act as team sponsors, the trip is an opportunity to share ideas with each other, whether about teaching or fundraising. The students compete in three categories, based on their level in math: Theta (algebra II/geometry), Alpha (precalculus) and Mu (calculus). Several Vestavia Hills students
Photo special to the Journal
By Emily Williams
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 25
SCHOOLS
Phase Three, Complete
By Emily Williams In the heart of Hilltop Montessori School, nestled in the town of Mt Laurel, there has been a hole, according to Head of School Michele Wilensky. On Aug. 14, the first day of the new school year, Wilensky cut a ribbon on a Phase Three expansion project designed to fill that hole. With her were school founder Cindi Stehr and board President Eric Fox. The Phase Three project marks the final expansion of the campus to help give the facility a LEED-rated green status. The project included construction of a 12,000-square-foot facility that rang up at around $3.5 million. One exciting aspect, according to Wilensky is the new gymnasium that will also serve as a multi-purpose community space after school hours. Wilensky noted that, without a gym, physical education classes were mostly held in outdoor areas like the community’s soccer fields and basketball courts. “We know the importance of kids just being outside, but before the gym/ community area, we had to have PE in the foyer on rainy days, which was not ideal,” Wilensky said. Amenities that the new expansion offers include: • A new teaching kitchen that will provide students with all-natural and
locally grown lunches prepared on site, which Wilensky noted is inspired by local Chef Chris Hastings. “He is a big believer of healthy school lunches and also giving kids the opportunity to get in the garden and then try healthier items that they wouldn’t normally taste, because they took part in watching it grow,” Wilensky said. She added that Hastings has visited the school and encouraged the success of the facility. • A middle school classroom has been renovated into the school’s first official science lab for grades first through eighth to conduct scientific explorations for biology, chemistry and physics. • A new multimedia center and library has been created in a space formerly used as a music room. • Within the fine arts expansion, an outdoor art studio will be the first nonshared space devoted to art classes. In addition, a new music center will offer a performance stage and private rooms for piano and violin lessons. • Amenities in the school’s outdoor spaces. A butterfly garden has been added to the school’s backyard for use of the school as well as Mt Laurel. An new gardening nutrition program will expand the lessons held in the school’s garden, teaching students how to grow and harvest organic and fresh vegetables and supplementing the produce used to make school
lunches. Additionally, the school’s apiary of honeybees has been fully funded through the campaign. It previously was maintained by a student, now graduated, who was a certified beekeeper. School founder Cindi Stehr now serves as beekeeper. “She has also been instrumental in starting hives at other locations,” Wilensky said. “Most recently, she worked with Aldridge Gardens to get their haves really going and she tries to spread the importance of bees all over Birmingham.” Wilensky noted that she hopes the expansion benefits the surrounding community of Mt Laurel as much as it benefits the school’s staff and students. “We are very grateful to Mt Laurel for providing us land for our expansion,” she said. To finish off the celebrations at the ribbon-cutting, Hilltop students Hopper and Willa Rose Akins spoke about what they love most about the school. Both said they were nervous when they first joined the school. Though it took Hopper a little bit longer to get over his nerves, Willa Rose said she could immediately feel the strong sense of community as her classmates offered to give her a school tour. “I’ve had a lot of adventures at Hilltop,” Willa Rose said. “This is like my second home.”
Photo special to the Journal
Hilltop Celebrates Its Final Campus Expansion
From left: Hilltop Montessori School Founder Cindi Stehr, Head of School Michele Wilensky and Board President Eric Fox cut a ribbon in the school’s new gymnasium, celebrating the recently finished Phase Three Expansion.
Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance recently announced its 2017 awards, recognizing Hoover City Schools educators Leta Hoit and Becky Peterson. Hoit, physical education teacher at Greystone Elementary School, has been selected as the association’s Jump Rope for Heart Coordinator of the Year. Jump Rope for Heart is a national educational event and fundraiser that seeks to help students develop a value for heart-healthy habits, physical activity and community service. It is sponsored by the American Heart Association and the Society of Health and Physical Educators. Hoit has taught at Greystone for 15 years and has been an educator for 19 years. After graduating from Auburn University, she pursued a master’s at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Peterson, physical education teacher at Rocky Ridge Elementary School, was named the association’s Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. She has been with Rocky Ridge since 2015 and is an adjunct instructor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Before joining the Hoover School system, she was an adapted physical education specialist for five years with Mountain Brook Schools. She holds a bachelor’s in physical education from Samford University and a master’s in early childhood special education from UAB. Hoit and Peterson will be honored in November at an awards reception during the organization’s annual fall conference. With this recognition, they will advance to nominations for Southern District titles. ❖
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Hoover Teachers Recognized by State Health Association
Christina and Maggie Cate Hixson
Holly Turner and Jennifer Jones.
Vestavia Hills Back-to-School Event Celebrates under Clear Skies In Cahaba Heights
The annual Back 2 School in the Hills had guests celebrating in the evening sun Aug. 18. Postponed from its original Aug. 11 date, Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce officials welcomed clear skies at the Cahaba Heights Athletic Fields as they hosted the annual back-to-school event. Even so, they kept the nearby Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights gym in mind as a back-up if the weather surprised them by turning sour. Activities included inflatables, kid’s crafts, balloon animals and plenty of free food for all ages. The evening’s festivities concluded with attendees settling in with picnics and blankets for a family-friendly movie screening. ❖
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26 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
SPORTS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ULTIMATE SPIRIT OF THE GAME In an area where football is king and fierce rivalries run deep, one area sports organization offers a different approach to team sports. Birmingham Ultimate Youth Association is a non-profit organization teaching the sport of Ultimate Frisbee to area teens, including underprivileged children. In addition to the rules of the game, BUYA works to teach kids the spirit of the game. “You are able to be competitive at a high level while still being best friends with your opponent,” said Doug Moellering, BUYA vice president. Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact team sport played on a large field. Players throw the Frisbee among themselves and score by landing the Frisbee in the end zone. While no area high school has an organized Ultimate team, BUYA is the place for young kids and teens to get involved.
He said that, even at a young age, Moellering said there is much children can pick up that the referee more to BUYA than flying discs. is the opponent rather than the other “Our goal is to reinforce the spirit team. of the game. It is the idea that if you Moellering also said that, just win the game but lost the respect of because Ultimate is a non-contact your opponent, you have won nothsport, that doesn’t mean things don’t ing,” he said, “Winning is not what we focus on, it is the playing aspect.” get physical. “You have to put your all into it. Moellering said he knows how Play really competitively and you are that attitude may sound to many athrunning wind sprints the whole letes and their parents, but he game,” he said. believes a great athlete doesn’t BUYA works to teach participants always make a great sport. five core values: mutual respect, “We play by the golden rule: treat friendship, nonviolence, personal others as you would want to be treatintegrity and fun. ed. Athletes don’t have to enjoy Players may earn awards such as themselves at the expense of their “most spirited player,” which is voted opponent,” Moellering said. on by the opposite team. BUYA welcomes kids age 12 to Like most sports leagues, there is 18, at all levels of fitness and famila fee to participate, but Moellering iarity with the sport. Athletes are not said he never wants that amount to be divided up into age groups but rather in a way that evenly matches players. a hindrance. OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl “We have need-based scholarThere are no referees. Players are ships. So far, we’ve given around 70 expected to THurSdAy, self-officiate and solve NOvemBer 17, 2016 kids scholarships. It is basically pay conflicts in a fair way. what you can,” he said. Moellering said that concept is BUYA has practice and games foreign to many young athletes today.
Sports
HOMEWOOD, From page 28
“Unbelievable Focus”
Photos by Todd Thompson/RiverCat Photography
job easier because they have taken so much ownership and pride in how to do things the right way.” Porter also coaches the Patriots’ girls crosscountry team and they won their first state championship in 2016. He believes they could become a dynasty, too. “This may make me sound a little arrogant or overconfident, but I think we have a special group of girls who are going to be good for the next few years,” Porter said. The Patriots produced both the boys and girls 2016-2017 Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Runners of the Year. Will Stone became the state’s first sophomore to win the boys award. All previous recipients were juniors or seniors. Lainey Phelps claimed the girls honor as a freshman. Stone overcame a cramp to capture his first individual state title, winning the Class 6A race with a time of 16:01.40, 12 seconds ahead of Opelika’s Ben Garner, who had started as the favorite. “Will has the physical ability – he’s built like a runner – and that’s what makes him good,” Porter said. “What makes him exceptional is his unbelievable focus. He doesn’t let anything get in his head, and that’s remarkable for someone who’s so young. He’s never afraid of success.
You find some kids who are afraid of success and don’t always perform at the highest level. “Will is also not afraid to fail. His lack of fear means he’s willing to take a risk or a chance. If it doesn’t work out, he takes about 15 minutes to be disappointed and then he’s ready to get back to work. He’s so focused and resilient. He’s fun to watch and a joy to coach.” Phelps won six races during her freshman season, including the Class 6A race. Her time of 18:02.13 was more than a minute faster than her nearest competitor. “Lainey has a lot of the same attributes like Will,” Porter said. “She’s growing on the mental side. She’s competitive and goal-oriented. She has the self-discipline and the ability to be successful. “She’s good at the longer distances, but she’s got killer speed. We didn’t run her in outdoor track in the 400 (meters), but she ran 56 seconds on our 4-x-4 relay team that went to nationals. She has so much versatility and so many tools.”
Returning Leaders
Stone and Phelps are not the only talented runners in the Patriots’ pack. Seniors Azariah Kipchumba, Lucas Lamb and Alvin Finch, and junior Jack Gray join Stone as the leading runners on the boys team. “It’s so important to have senior leadership in your top five runners,” Porter said. “And Jack Gray is right there with them.” The supporting cast for Phelps on the girls side is just as solid. Coming in strong in the team’s most recent 2-mile time trial, Porter said,
Homewood freshman Lainey Phelps took the individual championship trophy with a time of 18:02.13, the second-fastest time of the day.
only once a week, on Sunday afternoons at George Ward Park. The fall season starts Sept. 10 with the final tournament at the end of October. Teams are co-ed starting at age
Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact team sport played on a large field. Players throw the Frisbee among themselves and score by landing the Frisbee in the end zone.
Goodm To register and learn more, visit New Yo gobuya.org. Valley B There will be an opportunity Sept. Blazed 17 for younger children to try out 12.
Ultimate starting at 1:15 p.m. ❖
Smith, Zoe Nichols and Adah Allen; seniors Hanna Brook Gibbons and Katy Grace Bateman; and freshmen Victoria Thompson and Alex Steltenpohl, a transfer from Florence. “Alex was all-state as an eighth-grader and adding her to the mix makes us that much better,” Porter said. “Victoria has been running up with the varsity since the seventh grade, when she won the sectional. She’s fun to work with day in and day out.”
Last year, Will Stone overcame a cramp to capture his first individual state title, winning the Class 6A race with a time of 16:01.40.
were sophomore Celie Jackson, the two-mile state champion during outdoor season and runner-up to Phelps in the mile; sophomores Edie
Will Stone, a Patriot sophomore, easily won the individual title with a time of 16:01.60.
Homewood will open its cross-country season on Sept. 2, traveling to Tennessee to compete in the Memphis Twilight Cross Country Classic. The regional meet will include schools from Missouri and Arkansas as well as Tennessee. The Patriots competed in the meet in 2016, finishing fourth in the boys and eighth in the girls. “We’re looking to improve on that,” Porter said. Porter likes the Patriots’ chances of winning a sixth consecutive boys state title and a second straight girls crown, but neither is a shooin. “The key for the boys to make it six in a row is to be dedicated to improving,” Porter said. “That has been my talking point. They’ve got to be eager and hungry to improve all the way through the end of the season. “The girls have to be patient and smart, and not beat themselves. The key for them is to set bigger and bigger goals, to be No. 1 in the state in all classes.” ❖
Leading the Lady Spartans to a runner-up finish was senior Anna Grace Morgan, who won the individual championship.
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Patriotic rout
Award-winning slports photography for sale at otmjsports.com
Homewood Sweeps Boys and GirlsLee Class 6A Championships Walls Jr. Mark Almond
By Lee Davis The state Class 6A cross-country meet took place in Oakville, but the event certainly looked as if it took place in Homewood. The Patriots swept to championships in both the
l
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Kicking off the Season
Photos courtesy UAB Athletics
By Sarah Kuper
Photo Special to the Journal
Youth Ultimate Frisbee League Embraces What’s Fun About Team Sports
Marvin Gentry
outdistance runner-up Cullman’s 72 total. Helena placed third with 95 points. Will Stone, a Patriot sophomore, easily won the individual title with a time of 16:01.60. He defeated Opelika’s Ben Garner by a full 12 seconds. Another Homewood runner, Paul Selden, fin-
Bryan Bunch
Stone said. “When you know that you’ve put everything into training for months and it finally pays off with championships, there’s no way to feel happier about it.” Stone finished fourth in the state cross-country meet as a freshman last season.
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S a w o m S te s
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SPORTS
Reedus Takes Volleyball Reins at John Carroll
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 27
By Rubin E. Grant
UAB, From page 28
due to concerns about its financial future, Bryant Novick, an offensive lineman, found himself looking for a way to continue playing the sport he loved. Others were looking for him, too. Hawaii and a handful of other programs joined UT Chattanooga in the pursuit of the walk-on from Spain Park High School. “But his heart you could tell was at UAB, and it was hard for him to make the decision to go anywhere,” Denisa Novick said. “When we finally found out that they were bringing football back, you could just see his whole body relax. And he said ‘Momma this is home for me. I don’t want to go anywhere else.’” Bryant Novick was just one of many Blazers who had their lives rocked when the program abruptly ended at the conclusion of a 6-6 regular season, which also happened to be the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s best season since it finished 7-4 in 2004. Some of those players were able to transfer to major colleges and eventually wound up in the NFL, such as Chicago Bears running back
Jeff (Bonzo) Butler My Son Jeff My Challenge
Journal file photo by Mark Almond
Chantel Reedus figured her days coaching high school volleyball were over seven years ago. She was Shades Mountain Christian’s head coach in 2010, then decided she was going to do something else following her one-year stint. “I didn’t know if I would ever get back into coaching,” she said. But after a year away from the sport, she decided she missed volleyball. So, she returned to coaching club volleyball with Southern Performance, where she had coached previously and coached just about every age level. This summer, she found out John Carroll Catholic had an opening and some friends suggested she apply for the job. “I went through the interview process and they hired me,” Reedus said. “This is a totally different experience. I oversee the whole program, not just the varsity.” Reedus also works full-time at HealthSouth, keeping her busy throughout the week. “It’s not difficult for me to get to practice, but it’s hard to turn my mind off work to focus on volleyball and vice versa,” she said. “I don’t have much free time, but I enjoy coaching.” Reedus replaces Ginny McMillan, who stepped down as the Cavaliers’ head coach earlier this year. Reedus was a star player in Illinois at Downers Grove South High School, just outside Chicago. She helped Downers Grove win state championships as a freshman and senior and finish as runnersup as a sophomore. She was first team all-state three years and was selected by Volleyball Magazine as one of the Fab 50 senior high school players. She also played club ball and was named an AAU All-American in 1997, 1998 and 2000, earning the 2000 MVP award. Reedus was also a Junior National All-American in 1997, 1998 and 2000. Reedus played collegiately at Michigan, starting at left side hitter during her career for the Wolverines. While she was in college, her parents relocated to Birmingham and so she came south after earning a liberal arts degree. Her first foray into volleyball in Birmingham was as an assistant at Hoover in 2005.
The 2016 Cavaliers finished the year with a 29-15 record and a postseason berth.
At John Carroll, Reedus will have to replace graduated standouts Morgan Adamson, an outside hitter, and Mary Catherine Hart, a middle hitter. Adamson and Hart served as team captains and led the Cavaliers to 29-15 record and a postseason berth. Reedus does have some experienced players returning. “We’re very senior heavy,” she said. “We’ve got a few seniors who have been on the varsity just about their entire careers. A lot of the others have moved up from junior varsity last year.” Versatile senior Sophia Ragusa will play a leading role. She will start at setter, but Reedus adds, “She’s an interchangeable player.” Defensive specialist Kennedy Carlisle and right side hitter Sydney Wix are two other seniors the Cavaliers will count on. Ragusa’s younger sister Amelia, a freshman, will start at libero. She played on the varsity last year as an eighth-grader. “She’s like Sophia,” Reedus said. “She can do it
Jordan Howard. Others, including former Homewood offensive lineman Zach Sims, took a little longer to pick up the pieces. “It’s really your whole world because you spend morning ‘til night there,” Sims said. “The guys you’re with, your teammates, those are your brothers. It’s like losing a family member, almost, or 105 family members. It was hard, a tough thing to go through.” His mother, Andi Sims, was on the way back from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where UAB defeated Southern Mississippi 45-24 on Nov. 29, 2014, when the news broke and the tears began. “Since we had won the game so decidedly we thought that kind of put the lid on,” rumors about shutting down, Andi Sims said. Like his roommate at the time, Bryant Novick, Zach Sims found himself going through a second phase of recruitment in the following months. Options were there for him, but leaving didn’t feel right. He might not be on the team anymore, but he could still graduate as a Blazer. UAB coach Bill Clark estimated that Zach Sims is one of 12 scholarship players who returned to the program. The returning walk-ons bring
all.” The Cavaliers appear to have a strong team defensively but will take some time to develop some hitters. “We are very solid with passing and playing defense,” Reedus said. “We are getting the kids acclimated to offense, to be able to put the ball away when we have the opportunity. I have faith that will come.” John Carroll is ranked No. 9 in Class 6A in the preseason. The Cavaliers will open the season Aug. 31 at Ramsay. They will play their first home game on Sept. 5 against Pelham. Reedus believes the Cavaliers can contend for a state title, but she’s more concerned about how her girls mature as players. “My expectations are high,” Reedus said. “I want a state championship, but realistically if they develop their individual skills, come out and work hard, and become the best version of themselves and reach their potential as players I’ll be happy with that.” ❖
the number of current players who also were on the team back in 2014 to roughly 20, but he could have had even more. “There was a bunch of guys that wanted to come back and I look back and I actually talked them out of coming back,” Clark said. “You got a year left and you’re going to stay two years (until UAB takes the field again in 2017)? It just didn’t make sense. “...That’s our core group. They’ve helped us in recruiting. Really everything we’ve done has been a lot because of them, I think.” Since returning to the program in 2015, Bryant Novick was granted a scholarship for his contributions to the team. Clark said he and Zach Sims have provided leadership for their teammates through all of the adversity the Blazers faced over the past two years. “Both of them first come from good (high school) programs,” Clark said. “They’re solid kids. They’ve gotten better and I think they’ve done a really good job on our weight room and training, but both hometowns should be proud of those two guys.” Bryant Novick and Zach Sims aren’t the only ones who find themselves in a better position now than they were in 2014. UAB’s football facilities have been completely
revamped, essentially from the ground up, and Clark believes his program will be stronger now than it ever was before. “I always say this is the book or movie some day,” Clark said. “OK, yeah, we brought it back, but to get where we are now. That to me is the miracle. Forty-four million dollars raised from the community and alumni – that’s crazy.” Bryant Novick said the significance of the community’s support is not lost on him, but it’s not just the money given. It’s the outrage other students and community members demonstrated back in 2014, and the encouragement those same people have shown toward the program since its reinstatement in the summer of 2015. Earlier this summer, UAB was picked to finish last in Conference USA’s West division. But don’t bother telling the Blazers, or their mothers, that. College football is finally back in Birmingham, Alabama, and nothing is going to ruin the Sept. 2 home-opener against Alabama A&M. “There will be a lot of ugly crying going on in the stands, because it’s such a fulfillment of what we have been anticipating for two years,” Andi Sims said. “It will be quite emotional on that day.” ❖
Without a doubt this is the most difficult article that I’ve ever tried to write and I don’t have my Jeff to help me with the right words. Jeff was born May 22, 1971, and passed away Monday, August 14, 2017. He was larger than life in so many ways. He lived a full life and lived by the concept that if something was worth doing it was worth “over doing”. He proved this to me many times with his compulsion to over indulge or go to the extreme to help someone. He graduated from Mountain Brook High School, attended Auburn University. He later embraced cooking and worked at Bottega, Highlands, and even on the Dave Matthews crew for a short stint. All the while, he was trying to find his place in life and fighting depression until finally he went to a small rehab. Then one day, after four years of working there, he announced that he wanted “to do this and do it right”. That’s how Bayshore Retreat was created. His personal demons, journey and discoveries came together to create a place of genuine hope. He was the heart of the business. His heart and humanity fueled the hopes and accomplishments of many. He was in the daily interaction, whether in person or spirit. Perhaps the saddest part is that he finally found true love and a soul mate with Julie Martin Butler. They were married last October. My goal is to continue his legacy with Bayshore Retreat. His dream, his mission, my challenge.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 2017
TIME FOR KICKOFF
SPORTS
Check out our season previews in OTMJ’s annual football 24-page pull-out section inside.
RUNNING FOR GLORY
Former Homewood offensive lineman Zach Sims.
Patriots Aim to Stretch out Their Victory Streak
By Rubin E. Grant
Photos courtesy UAB Athletics
Lars Porter doesn’t know what it’s like to finish second – at least as Homewood’s boys cross-country coach. His first five years at the helm have produced five Alabama High School Athletic Association state championships, including the 2016 Class 6A crown. “I am working with an amazing group of kids,” Porter said. “The kids are spoiling me and have made me look like I know what I’m doing. “My emphasis from day one has been all OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl about the culture, the rules of the sport and the THurSdAy, requirements for us NOvemBer to be successful.17, I’ve2016 had a group of boys who bought into that and passed on that success to the next group. It’s made my See HOMEWOOD, page 26 Spain Park High School grad Bryant Novick.
File photos by Todd Thompson/River Cat Photography
FOLLOWING THEIR HEARTS
Former Patriot and Jaguar Standouts Coming Home to Play in New Season at UAB
A
s a parent, Denisa Novick, couldn’t have been happier for her son when he received his scholarship offer from UT Chattanooga. Then her motherly instincts picked up on her son’s reaction. This was going to be trouble. When the UAB football program was shut down in December 2014 See UAB, page 27
Photos by Todd Thompson/RiverCat Photography
By Tyler Waldrep
Homewood’s Lainey Phelps was the girls 2016-2017 Gatorade Alabama Cross Country Runner of the Year.
Homewood freshman Lainey Phelps took the individual championship trophy with a time of 18:02.13, the second-fastest time of the day.
Will S individ
Patri
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By Lee Davis The state Class 6A cross-country meet took place in Oakville, but the event certainly looked as if it took place in Homewood.
outdis placed W indivi Opeli
OTMJ
2017 OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
TIME FOR KICKOFF Thursday, August 24, 2017
Journal file photos by Marvin Gentry and Mark Almond
FIVESTAR
Mountain Brook Player Kicks Off the Year Ranked Among the Best in His Class INSIDE
TEAM PROFILES SCHEDULES KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH ROSTERS 40 YEARS AND COUNTING THE ’77 BERRY STATE TITLE RUN AND MORE
VH
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
2 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
By Tyler Waldrep
ountain Brook running back Harold Joiner Jr. already has collected at least 29 scholarship offers from schools all over the country, including Alabama and Auburn, and 247Sports has him ranked as the No. 5 running back in the 2018 class. However, all the success on the football field and the opportunities that generated might not have been possible if not for Mountain Brook basketball coach Bucky McMillan and his reputation for success on the basketball court. “He (Joiner) sits down and he meets with me, Bucky McMillan and our track coach and he said, ‘I’m here to play basketball,’” Mountain Brook football coach Chris Yeager said. “He wanted his entire career to revolve around basketball.” Lack of success at both Vestavia Hills and Hoover contributed to Joiner’s shift away from football. Luckily for him – and the Spartan football team – someone talked Joiner into giving the gridiron one more shot. “I always knew he had that potential,” said his father, Harold Joiner Sr. “It kind of shook me up a little bit when I noticed he was leaning towards basketball. But, yeah, I always knew he had that potential to be big in football, but he just had to get his mind 100 percent focused on football.” His son’s happiness was always a priority for the elder Joiner. He would’ve supported his son no matter what sport he chose, but as a father he could not in good conscience advise his son to walk away from something at which he seemed so clearly talented. Yeager said the running back had two offers before spring training even ended. It was hard for Joiner Jr. to justify leaving football after that. Joiner Sr. never doubted his son, but it was hard not to get nervous when he began attending camps along with other top prospects. The results of those camps, including MVP honors at a Rivals camp back in March, put any concerns to rest. “They supposedly have the five-star top linebackers and cornerbacks checking him, and he would go up and just catch the ball over them like it aint nothing,” Joiner Sr. said. Now, with the regular season rapidly approaching, the biggest recruit to play for the Spartans since five-star Tyler Love signed with the University of Alabama in 2008 is ready to pick up where he left off last season. Yeager recalls a play Joiner Jr. made during the Helena game last season. “He makes a jump cut and he looks like 150-pound back and he’s actually a 210-pound back,” Yeager said. “But it’s a move; it’s only a 10- 15-yard run, but the
“Our goal is to remain balanced. The team will need help from other, inexperienced receivers if it wants to be an air threat. We want to be able to run, able to pass, able to make our choice from the offensive side.” FRED YANCEY BRIARWOOD
PAGE 6
“Your goal is always to win the region championship. We’re in a tough region. Ramsay won the state championship last year.” BEN BERGUSON HOMEWOOD
PAGE 8
Harold Joiner Jr.
defender, … was just left tackling air. That’s one all the colleges talk about.” Another thing the college coaches are talking about is Joiner Jr.’s backup, A.J. Gates. Usually a back of Joiner Jr.’s caliber gets a lot of work in high school, but last season he rushed for only 744 yards because of the success of teammates such as Gates. “Some recruiters were saying, ‘The thing we’re excited about is you got two good running backs,’” Yeager said. “‘When he gets to us he’s not going to be a high-mileage back. It’s not like y’all are going to give him the ball 40 times a game.’” The elder Joiner said sharing the ball has never been a problem for his son. He wants the carries, but he’s also happy to set blocks for wide receivers, the quarterback or anyone else on his team, his father said. As long as he’s making contact, he’s having fun. That’s one reason Joiner Jr. is pushing his recruiters to include opportunities at running back even though some schools think tight end or wide receiver when dealing with a player who has enough athleticism that he catches passes while doing back flips, just for fun. “We’re checking depth charts and we’re trying to get him into (a position) where he can come in as a freshman playing,” Joiner Sr. said. “Just get to the next level, not just going somewhere to say we’re there. We want to go somewhere and be dressed out on that field playing and being a big part of a nice program that’s trying to win a national championship.” On Aug. 10 Mountain Brook’s lead back decided LSU and Michigan State are the schools that fit the bill for him. His dad said it was difficult persuading his son to wait this long with so many offers out there, but, as usual, he’s looking a little farther ahead than his son. A major college or even the NFL aren’t the final destinations on his son’s journey, and the elder Joiner was quick to tell coach Yeager that the first chance he got. “He (Joiner Sr.) said, ‘Coach, one day you’re
HIGHLIGHT
REAL 247Sports Has Joiner Ranked as the No. 5 Running Back in the 2018 Class
Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
M
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
See JOINER, page 22
“We never focus on who beat us, we focus on our culture, what we’re trying to build, how we can improve and take this thing to another level; not only on the field, but off the field.” JOSH NIBLETT HOOVER
PAGE 10
“It was just a different feel walking down the hall.” Students “had something to kind of look forward to (after ending a 14 game losing streak) and I think that really lifted our kids (on the team) up.” LOGAN COLAFRANCESCO JOHN CARROLL
PAGE 12
“Anytime we feel that we’re getting complacent or anytime we think we’re just having an ordinary day, we can remind them ‘OK, you know how this movie ends.’” CHRIS YEAGER
“People are going to know they’ve been in a football game when they’ve played us,” Bell said. “We’re going to make some noise this year.” CRIS BELL
MOUNTAIN BROOK
PAGE 16
PAGE 14
OAK MOUNTAIN
“We’ve got 30 seniors right now. A lot of them haven’t played. That’s the thing about high school football; if you’ll stick with it, a lot of times you’ll get your chance to play at this level.” SEAN RANEY SPAIN PARK
PAGE 18
“I like this team. I like how this team works. They’re hardworking, and I feel like we have a chance to be a really good defense.” BUDDY ANDERSON VESTAVIA
PAGE 20
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 3
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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Chelsea Moody Wenonah Fairfield Mortimer Jordan St. Clair County Woodlawn Shelby County Pleasant Grove Madison Academy
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Location
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Samford HOME Away HOME HOME Away HOME Away HOME Away
Aug. 25 Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27 Nov. 3
MTN BROOK HIGH SCHOOL
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Hayden Hueytown Parker Jackson-Olin Moody Homewood Springville Ramsay Shades Valley Pelham
HOME Away HOME Away Away HOME Away HOME Away HOME
Aug. 25 Sept. 1 Sept.8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27 Nov. 2 (Thurs.)
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OAK MTN. HIGH SCHOOL Opponent
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Opponent
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Sept. 1 Homewood Sept. 8 Spain Park Sept. 15 Oak Mountain Sept. 21(Thurs.)Huffman Sept. 29 Helena Oct. 6 Thompson Oct. 13 Mountain Brook Oct. 20 Hoover Oct. 27 Tuscaloosa County Nov. 3 Shades Valley
Location Away HOME HOME Away Away HOME Away HOME Away HOME
* Plus tax, title, and administrative fee. All rebates to dealer. Rebates subject to change without notice. 2017 Tahoe LT starting at $48,995. 2017 Silverado Double Cab Custom starting at $29,995
4 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
40 YEARS AND COUNTING Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
Vestavia’s Buddy Anderson Has Spent a Lifetime Training Young Men on the Gridiron
B
By Blake Ells
uddy Anderson still remembers the night his life’s path became clear to him. It was Jan. 12, 1968, and he was sitting in his father’s old pickup that he had driven to play in a high school basketball game. “It wasn’t completely overcast, but there were clouds,” he recalls, as if the date nearly 50 years ago were yesterday. “I had been struggling with something in my life. It was a moonlit night, but you could see clouds rolling above. And at that point, I felt God talking to me in my spirit and in my heart. He wanted me to be a Christian coach.” Fifty years later, he is not just a coach, he is the winningest high school coach in Alabama, with a record of 325-140. Anderson, now 67 years old, begins his 40th season as head coach at Vestavia Hills on Sept. 1 in a game against Homewood. “Records are made to be broken,” he assures. “When I leave here, people won’t remember who I was. Seven or eight years after (baseball) coach (Sammy) Dunn passed away, I had a class on CPR. I was telling a story about coach Dunn and all of these kids stared at me. Out of 25-30 kids in that classroom, one raised their hand and recognized him.” A humble man of humble origin, Anderson is the son of coach D.F. Anderson of Thomasville, a rural community on the fringes of the black belt that is now home to 4,209 citizens. The field where Buddy played now carries his father’s name. He played football at Samford University, and he met his wife there, too. In December 1970, he and Linda married and he began searching for a job. He interviewed in Pensacola, where the superintendent had played
and coached for his father. He talked to people across Birmingham, and doors continued to close at every turn. He began thinking graduate school might be the best solution. While this was going on in Anderson’s life, a tragic accident occurred. Vestavia Hills head football coach Mutt Reynolds was returning from lunch to Pizitz Middle School with three assistant coaches in August 1971. An 18-wheeler lost control of its brakes as it descended the hill on U.S. 31 and collided with Reynolds’ vehicle. All three assistants were killed. Anderson faintly recalled the accident, the commotion of ambulances and police cars that he could hear careening from Lakeshore to 31. A year later, as he sat in a Samford financial aid office completing his graduate school application, John Lee Armstrong, his Samford coach, reminded him of the accident and offered to connect him with Reynolds. “(Reynolds) never asked me what I knew about offense or defense,” Anderson said. “He asked me why I wanted to be a coach. I told him that God had called me. Five minutes later, he asked me the same thing, and I gave him the same answer. Then he asked me, ‘After five, 10 years of doing this, when you realize that you’re not going to make any money, what are you going to do?’ And I told him that I planned on coaching because that’s what God called me to do. And he said, ‘You’re the person I want coaching.’” Reynolds never really recovered emotionally from the accident. After the 1972 season, he stepped out of the coaching job to become the assistant principal. He’d later coach at Pizitz for several years, and the Rebels’ stadium still bears his name. The Rebels were led by Doug Wheeler in 1973-74, Larry Blakeney in 1975-
76 and Alvin Bresler in 1977. Anderson loyally remained an assistant throughout each change and in 1978, he was given the reigns of the program. “During my senior year at Samford, Linda and I went to see her alma mater, Mountain Brook, play at Vestavia,” he said. “There was a girl giving a devotional before the game, which I clearly recall stating, ‘If our life is not anchored in the spirit of Jesus Christ, our life will not weather the storm.’ I didn’t have an allegiance to either team playing in that game. But I had this feeling. And as we were walking back to her parents’ house, she said, ‘I had the funniest feeling tonight. I graduated from Mountain Brook, but I felt like I was rooting for Vestavia.’ I never thought about it again until I first met with coach Reynolds.”
Generations of Players
Forty years passed, Anderson has coached fathers and their sons. “I haven’t coached any grandsons yet,” he joked. “I don’t know if there are any in the pipeline.” He’s had loyal assistants. Peter Braasch was his defensive coordinator for 38 years before retiring in 2014. This year, Braasch was inducted into the Alabama High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame. Bruce Evans and Rick Grammer spent years as assistants to Anderson. Even Dunn, whose legend is etched into the baseball diamond, served as an assistant football coach, a role that Anderson assures was greatly overshadowed. Vestavia Hills Athletics Director Jeff Segars played for Anderson and served as his assistant until taking over his new role in 2015. The people – both around him and by
nature – haven’t changed much. “A lot of what I have learned (about people), I learned from my dad,” Anderson said. “He said that everybody’s different. No two people are alike. And you’ve got to treat them all the same, but differently. What motivates one person may not motivate the next person. You’ve got to let them know that you love them no matter what. And while they may disappoint you, you’re not going to stop loving them.” One week before this season’s fall camp began, Anderson received a call from a former
‘I never dreamed that I would still be here. I’m a very blessed man. I’ve had an opportunity to work with a lot of great men and to coach a lot of great kids. Vestavia became home to me; we raised our daughters here and now our grandchildren are here, too.’ player who is now turning 50; it’s a call he’s gotten every year for the past several years. “I never dreamed that I would still be here,” Anderson said. “I’m a very blessed man. I’ve had an opportunity to work with a lot of great men and to coach a lot of great kids. Vestavia became home to me; we raised our daughters here and now our grandchildren are here, too.”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 5
‘PREDICTED TO FINISH LAST’ Hoover Honoring Berry Bucs’ Incredible 1977 Championship Run
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By Rubin E. Grant
t the beginning of the 1977 high school football season, no one confused the Berry Buccaneers with state championship contenders. As former defensive end Stacey Berthon recalled, “We were predicted to finish last in our region.” Berry was coming off a mediocre 5-4-1 season in 1976 and missed playoffs, even though they had a senior-laden team and were expected to contend. “We had a lot of high-profile players,” Berthon said. “We did OK, but we never really jelled.” The Bucs struggled at the outset in 1977 and appeared headed for another lackluster season. They barely won their season-opener, scoring a late touchdown for a 6-3 victory at Hueytown. Then, they fell 24-7 to Jess Lanier of Bessemer in the second week in a game that wasn’t as close as the final score. “We lost going away and if we had played another quarter it would have been much worse,” Berthon said. But after falling to Jess Lanier, Berry never lost another game. The Bucs earned a playoff berth as a wild-card team and soared to the Class 4A title, which at the time was the highest classification in the state. The team captured the first state championship in school history and the first of two titles for late head coach Bob Finley. The Bucs shut out Walker County 21-0 in the championship game to finish the season 13-1. “It was kind of hard to believe,” said Jimmy Boren, a senior cornerback on the team. “We didn’t have lofty expectations. But after we lost to Jess Lanier, we got together and made a decision about what kind of team we were going to be and then we just came together as a team.” The Hoover Bucs will host a reunion for the 1977 Berry championship team on Sept. 1 at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium and have scheduled a recognition ceremony in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Berry Bucs’ title before the current Bucs take on Meridian, Miss. Boren, who now lives and works in Mobile, is appreciative that the team will be honored. “Looking back on what we accomplished, it’s still something we are really proud of,” Boren said. “It’s nice of the Hoover athletic department to recognize us. It’s sad that Berry High School is a thing of the past, but it’s really nice of them to remember us and the connection we have.” According to Berthon, the key game in 1977 was against No. 1-ranked Shades Valley in week seven. The Bucs prevailed 14-7 with Boren making an interception in the final minute to preserve the victory. “It was a hard-fought win,” Berthon said. “After we won that game, we finally thought we were really good.” A new rule allowed the Bucs to get into the playoffs. Before the 1977 season, only teams that won their region were eligible for the playoffs. But because Class 4A had fewer schools than the other classifications, the Alabama High School Athletic Association awarded four wildcard berths to teams with the best records. The Bucs’ loss to region champion Jess Lanier would have kept them at home in previous seasons. But once it advanced to the playoffs, Berry was on a roll. “We went in feeling confident,” Berthon said. The Bucs traveled to Montgomery and beat
better than Walker. They had a star running back in Linnie Patrick, who was a sophomore, but our defense was fast and quick and was able to contain him.” The Bucs’ defense, designed by defensive coordinator Joe Perkins, allowed only 81 points in 14 games and recorded five shutouts. “Joe Perkins was a fiery guy, the complete opposite of coach Finley personality-wise,” Boren said. “He was a really good coach and always had us prepared.” Gerald Gann Members of the 1977 Berry High School football team (defense above, offense below). The defense, designed by defenwas the offensive sive coordinator Joe Perkins, allowed only 81 points in 14 games and recorded five shutouts. According to offensive coorcoordinator of the title dinator, Gerald Gann, “As coaches we talk about teams getting better every week and we had one of those teams that team. He later was head came to practice and kept getting better every week.” Photos are from the 1978 Berry High School yearbook, Caravel. coach at Hoover after a lengthy stint as head coach at Homewood. “As coaches we talk about teams getting better every week and we had one of those teams that came to practice and kept getting better every week,” Gann said. “We weren’t very flashy on offense. We ran a lot of sprint draws. Jay Haley was our quarterback and we ran the lead option. We had a good tailback in Brian Blakenship and a really good tight end in Bart Krout. We were pretty hard-nosed. “Joe Perkins headed up the defense and they did what we needed them to do. Coach Finley did a good job of directing us.” Krout was the only true star, playing defensive end as well as tight end. He was named a high school All-American and made first-team All-State. Considered the No. 1 recruit in the state, he No. 1-ranked Jeff Davis 20-0 at Cramton Bowl went on to play at Alabama under coach Paul in the first round; and beat West End 28-8 at “Bear” Bryant. Legion Field in the second round. Then they “We didn’t have a team full of superstars,” went back to Montgomery and knocked off Boren said. “We only had a handful of guys to Sidney Lanier 10-3 in the semifinals before play at the next level. We just were a scrappy returning to Legion Field and routing Walker in bunch of guys who loved football, playing for the final. our coaches, our school and each other. We “The state championship game wasn’t much didn’t want to let each other down.” of a test,” Berthon said. “We had played teams The 1977 title will always hold special memories for Berthon, who works for Hoar Construction in Birmingham. The team captured the “We took a lot of pride in being the first first state championship in championship team at Berry,” Berthon said. school history and the first “Coach Finley always talked about that, so we of two titles for late head coach Bob Finley, left. knew it was a big deal.”
BRIARWOOD FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
6 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Members of the 2017 Briarwood Christian School varsity football team include: Carson Donnelly, Jake Dyson, Andrew Sherrod, Carson Eddy, Chance Beard, Michael Hiers, Cade Dickinson, J.R. Tran-Reno, Andrew Jones, Hudson Hartsfield, Gabe Morris, Matthew McKenna, Mark Hand, Mason Algren, Gabriel Russell, Jacob Burr, Blake McKenna, Jonathan Hill, Cal Reebals, Jay Kynerd, Alex Key, Bryce Perrien, Reid Mays, Luke Prewett, Cade Mango, Michael Murphy, Mac McNamee, Crawford Kent, Brandon Guthrie, Noah Whatley, David Meyers, Brandon Kassouf, Noah Nall, Sam Hamner, Cole Garner, Brody Burgess, Christian Ferguson, Christian Pearson, J.A. Perry, Carson Kolb, Joseph Munganast, Turner Murphy, Knox Wolsoncroft, William Heidepriem, Garrett Bell, Clayton Rasmussen, Landon Berg, Jacob Hawk, Cole Scordino, Ward Combs, Patrick Blythe, Michael Holmes, Ross Godbehere, Parker Will, Ian Davis, Riley Bush, Trent Howard, Alex Miller, Collin Dorrill, Ryan Walker, Ian Sorrels, Sam Russell, P.C. Strickland, George Sumerford, Quaid Rasmussen, Sanket Shah and Dalton Brooks.
BALANCING ACT
Briarwood
AT A GLANCE
Head coach: Fred Yancey 2016 record: 12-2 (second round of Class 5A playoffs) Region: Class 5A Region Five Fairfield, Moody, Pleasant Grove, St. Clair County, Shelby County, Wenonah, Woodlawn Stadium: Lion Pride Field (5,000)
Briarwood Seeking Balanced Play With a Less-Seasoned Team
By Blake Ells Briarwood Christian fell just short of winning it all in 2016. After defeating Wenonah in regular-season region play, the Lions fell in the semifinals of the state playoffs to the Dragons, finishing 12-2. That team was experience-laden, and now coach Fred Yancey must work to achieve similar heights but with youth. That begins under center. In 2016, Michael Hiers backed up William Gray, a second-team AllState selection, which limited Hiers’ opportunities to see meaningful snaps. Now a senior, the threesport starter is 6-feet 1-inch tall, 182 pounds, and he’s mobile. “The only reason he didn’t start last year is because he was behind a kid that had a great, great year,” said KEY PLAYERS Yancey. Coach Fred Yancey While Hiers with, from left, front: may be a bit Garrett Bell and green, he’ll Patrick Blythe. Back: William Heidepriem be flanked by and Jonathan Hill. capable veterans certain to make
his maturation easier. J.R. Tran-Reno returns at running back, although “running back” is a loose suggestion. Yancey also will line him up at wide receiver and quarterback. As a sophomore, TranReno had 1,000 all-purpose yards. He’s also no stranger to quarterback, where he played most of his snaps through his freshman year. “For our team, we think Michael is going to be a great quarterback and J.R. is going to be a great running back,” Yancey said. “But as needed, (Tran-Reno) is really a great quarterback also. He can play it.” The loss of Luke Miskelly and three-year starter Kolby Kwarcinski at wide receiver hurts, but senior Carson Eddy returns to give Hiers a reliable target, bringing great hands and speed to the Lions’ attack. “Our goal is to remain balanced,” said Yancey. The team will need help from other, inexperienced receivers if it wants to be an air threat. “We want to be able to run, able to pass, able to make our choice from the offensive side,” Yancey said. Despite losing All-State defensive end Champ Stewart, who will continue his career at Samford University, Yancey expects a stout defense to remain reliable. Dalton Brooks and Patrick Blythe will provide experience to the defensive line, while Yancey expects Joseph Munganast and Carson Kolb to fill the void left by Stewart’s graduation.
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Peter Millar
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Southern Proper
Southern Point
*Region game
Southern Proper
Aug. 25
Southern Tide
Barbour
OPPONENT
Peter Millar
Barbour
Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
DATE
Smathers & Branson
Southern Point
Junior J.R. Tran-Reno had 1,000 all-purpose yards last year.
OPPONENT Briarwood 2017 Schedule
Barbour
Cornerbacks Andrew Sherrod and Jonathan Hill return to lead a stingy secondary, complemented by three-year starter Carson Donnelly at safety. Gabriel Russell returns from an All-State season at linebacker. He’ll be complemented by linebacker Mark Hand, a premier college lacrosse prospect who will likely have an opportunity to play either sport at the next level. Brandon Kassouf and Sam Hamner will share time at the third linebacker position. The rematch with Wenonah happens in the fourth week of the year, the third regular season matchup. But Yancey assures there’s no reason to look ahead; the Lions have plenty of challenges before the state runners-up come to town on Sept. 15. “We’ve got our attention taken right off the bat going to Vestavia for the jamboree,” Yancey said. “Our guys realize they better be pretty good when they go over there, even if it’s just for a scrimmage. Chelsea, our first regular season opponent, has beaten us three years in a row. Our boys have a lot of respect for Chelsea, and they know that they play good football.”
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 7
BRIARWOOD FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
HOMEWOOD FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
8 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Homewood Members of the 2017 Homewood High School varsity football team include: David Robertson Jr., Nick McCoy, C.D. Daniels, TyShawn Buckner, Tre Roberson, Kris Wilkins, Chance Hall, Khardi Dalton, William Hall, Larkin Williams, Jacob Pendley, Jackson Griggs, Cameron Green, Stephon May, Alex Ray, Lane Gilchrist, Ky Burdeshaw, Pate Owen, Traveon Allen, Devin Bacchus, Jaden Alexander, Marcus McGhee, KeOnte Davis, Michael Kash, David Estrada, Trinity Carter, Darrius Hentley, Cooper Douthit, Thomas Smith, Justin Towner, Pate McDaniel, Antoine Christian, Anthony Fields, Kevin Harris, Trent Owens, John Firnberg, Nick Amison, Charlie Williams, Ibrahima Sylla, Campbell Brabston, Malcolm Scott, Parker Allen, Crawford Doyle, Justin Williams, Gabe Madden, Dalen Tyler, Brody Butler, Antoine McGhee, Vincent Adams, Tobias Thomas, Ryan Maxwell, D.J. Parker, Joseph Ingram, Elliot Dodson, Griffin Vail, Edrick Cunningham, Joseph Molstad, Harry Moody, Andrew Williams, Brennan Gardner, Will Strong, Johnny Moreno, Lucas Padgett, Jaheim Jackson, Jekobie Harris, Grayson Kelley, Reed Swope, Sam Ray, Trae Ausmer, Wesley Williams, Pierre Jones, Caleb Walker, Gilberto Vazquez, Keyante Rogers, Trey Jacka, John Andrew Dill, Wesley McCalley, Edgar Pardo and Wilson McCraw.
REFLECTED GLORY Homewood is Trying to Claw Its Way Back to the Top
By Blake Ells Homewood was forced to regroup in 2016 after a run of four consecutive nine-win sea-
sons. The Patriots lost several three-year starters, and they returned just one starter on offense. They finished 5-6 with a first-round playoff
loss to Minor. The off year wasn’t unexpected with natural attrition, but it was disappointing for a program that historically has competed among the state’s best. Those days get further away as competition grows fiercer. The last time Homewood made the quarterfinals of the state playoffs was in 2005; this group of seniors was in kindergarten. “Your goal is always to win the region championship,” said coach Ben Berguson. “We’re in a tough region. Ramsay won the state championship last year. Just to get back to the quarterfinals is a big goal of ours.” Ramsay’s return to football in 2011 has slowly built a new rival. Berguson and Ramsay coach Ruben Nelson were assistants at Fairfield together in the ‘90s, and they remain close. The Rams’ rapid 6A ascent along with that relationship and proximity have made the annual contest a big one. This year, it will be at Waldrop Stadium KEY PLAYERS on Oct. 13. Coach Ben Berguson But before with, from left: C.D. that happens, Daniels, TyShawn the Patriots will Buckner and Nick have the premier McCoy. See HOMEWOOD, page 23
AT A GLANCE
Head Coach: Ben Berguson 2016 Record: 5-6 (first round of Class 6A playoffs) Region: Class 6A Region Five Hueytown, Jackson-Olin, John Carroll Catholic, Parker, Ramsay, Shades Valley Stadium: Waldrop Stadium (5,000)
OPPONENT Homewood 2017 Schedule DATE
OPPONENT
Aug. 24
Pelham at Samford
Sept. 1
Vestavia Hills
Sept. 8
at Parker*
Sept. 15
Jackson-Olin*
Sept. 22
Helena (HC)
Oct. 6
at John Carroll*
Oct. 13
Ramsay*
Oct. 20
at Shades Valley*
Oct. 27
Hueytown*
Nov. 3
at Paul Bryant
*Region game
AlabamaFord.com GOOD LUCK PATRIOTS and WAR EAGLE!
Stan White
Color Announcer for Auburn University Football
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
•9 HOMEWOOD 1FOOTBALL 4 2 5 M o n t g o m e r y H w y , V e s t a v i a H i l l s | 2 0 5 . 8 2 2 . 9 1 7 3Thursday, | s t e e dAugust s j e w e 24, l e r s2017 .com
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HOOVER FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
10 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Members of the 2017 Hoover High School varsity football team include: George Pickens, Kaulin Jackson, R.J. Nelson, Larry McCammon, Jabari Moore, Vonte’ Brackett, Codey Martin, Zach Elam, Timothy Booker, Myles Spurling, Brady Hopkins, JaVion Underwood, Connor Dubble, Jalen Parker, Seth Compher, Chase Brown, Robbie Ashford, Xavier Long, Shaw Niblett, Cameron Billups, Sam Sanford, Jacquez Allen, Shaquiel Hood, Patrick Palmore, Kendall Parker, Simeon Palmore, Tyrell Goldsmith, Jeremy Williams, Cliff Williams, Noah Williams, Grant Sneed, Hunter Westerlund, Kevunn McConico, Christian Hurt, Jesse Kelley, Rolando Jimenez, Jaden Hardy, Daniel Swatek, Kole Allen, Adrian Hill, Walter Skowronek, Jack Stamba, Will Reichard, Ben Hendrix, Levi McCree, Ryan Caldbeck, Greg Russell, Brooks Brymer, Kameron Robinson, Isaiah Hubbard, Barret Pickering, Alex Flint, Gary Larson, Andrew Sasser, Josh Kissinger, Brennen Milliron, Jonathan Lorimer, Cam Wood, Nick Curtis, Jalynn Muhammad, Reed Watson, Brandon Goodwin, Sam McDaniel, Mike Maye, L.J. McLemore, Phillip Stanton Jr., Jacob Bodden, Tyler Chamblin, Trey Reynolds, Jackson Barton, Jacob Lindsey, Ryan Houston, Garrett Lepkowski, Ellis Adams, Gabriel Pipkin, Harper Price, Shedrick Jackson, Jack Henry Milligan, Nick Davis, Mark Dailey, Martavius Hollifield, Ibn Henderson, Jake Tucker, Noah Walker, David Dykes, Stevie Cole, Bryce Carnes, Toren Echols, Trey Dickey, Devon Scott, Chad Tew, Stephen Robinson, Cameron Scott, Kaleb Gibbs and Khamari Brown.
LIVING THE LEGACY Hoover Pushes to Keep Its Winning Culture Alive Despite Lost Talent By Blake Ells Hoover opens its season at Grayson, in Loganville, Ga., on Aug. 25, taking on one of just two schools that topped it during the 2016 state championship run. But revenge, coach Josh Niblett said, isn’t motivation as his team prepares for 2017. “We never focus on who beat us, we focus on our culture, what we’re trying to build, how we can improve and take this thing to another level; not only on the field, but off the field,” Niblett said. “Of course, playing Grayson the first game is going to get your attention and our kids will be locked in and focused. Our goal is to win the opener and win the region and win the finisher. And the only way to obtain those three goals is to win the first one.” Replacing KEY PLAYERS his defense Coach Josh Niblett is a concern. with, front, from left: Not only have Mike Maye and the Bucs lost Khamari Brown. Back: Chase Brown and a lot of talent, Shedrick Jackson. they’ve lost a lot of leader-
Hoover High
AT A GLANCE
Head Coach: Josh Niblett 2016 record: 12-2 (Class 7A state champions) Region: Class 7A Region 3 Huffman, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County. Vestavia Hills. Stadium: Buccaneer Stadium (5,000) Hoover Metropolitan Stadium (9,000)
ship. Just four starters from last season return: Khamari Brown and Kaleb Gibbs on the defensive line, Nick Curtis at linebacker and Chase Brown at defensive back. “Your kids allow you to do different things,” Niblett said. “It’s about the makeup of each group. That group wasn’t going to be denied. You don’t ever replace the type of leadership that group had; you’ve got to grow it. You’ve got to cultivate it. That’s the biggest thing for us right now.” He hasn’t decided who’ll start at quarterback, but he’s secure knowing that three of the five starters on his offensive line are returning: Mike Maye, Jacob Bodden and Sam McDaniel. There’s speed on the perimeter, led by the return of Shedrick Jackson. But when discussing the upcoming season, Niblett singles out just two of his players individually. Hoover’s senior placekicker, Barrett Pickering, is the top-rated kicker in the state of Alabama and, according to some services, as high as second in the nation. He’s already committed to play for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Will Reichard, a junior, already has offers from LSU and Oklahoma. He’s the nation’s top-rated kicker in the 2019 class, according to some services.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Hoover 2017OPPONENT Schedule
Three of the five starters on Hoover’s offensive line are returning: Mike Maye, Jacob Bodden and Sam McDaniel (pictured).
Journal file photos by Marvin Gentry
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 11
HOOVER FOOTBALL
DATE
OPPONENT
Aug. 25
at Grayson (GA)
Sept. 1
Meridian (MS)
Sept. 8
at Mountain Brook*
Sept. 15
at Spain Park*
Sept. 22
Tuscaloosa Co.,* (HC)
Oct. 6
Oak Mountain*
Oct. 13
at Huffman*
Oct. 20
at Vestavia Hills*
Oct. 27
Thompson*
Nov. 3
IMG (FL)
*Region game
“They’re great teammates, they’re great friends, they keep each other accountable, they push each other and they do a really good job with punting, placekicking and kicking off,” Niblett said. The dangerous duo is one of the things Niblett will most rely on while trying to repeat the Bucs trek to the state championship. “We’ve got an opportunity to be really special,” Niblett said of his special teams unit. “And we’re going to have to be really special because we’ve got to try to steal some points from somewhere.” He’ll also rely on Hoover’s rich winning history to motivate his young team. Twelve total state championships – 10 since 2000 – loom large with each new group. Five of those have been on
Niblett’s watch, and he said maintaining the legacy has become a driving force for the team, which will have to develop into its own identity. “This group doesn’t want to be left behind,” he said. “This is the family business now. They know they’ve got an opportunity to do something special and they want to do it. Success breeds success, and sometimes legacy is more intimidating than your opponent. They know there’s a great group that came before them and they’ve got an opportunity to get better.” The legacy they chase at Hoover has become the standard in Alabama high school athletics. It remains because Niblett won’t allow his team a moment of complacency. “There’s going to be a new standard every
Barrett Pickering, is the top-rated kicker in the state of Alabama and, according to some services, as high as second in the nation.
year,” he said. “Somebody else is trying to match our standard. Somebody else is trying to match what we did last year. So we’ve got to stay in front of the curve. I try to work extremely hard with our staff and our players to make sure they know why we’re doing what we’re doing, why we’re changing things up a little bit to stay in front of the curve. Our standard never changes: if we tuck our shirt in on a Monday, we’re going to do it on Tuesday. If we did it in 2008, we’re doing it now; we’re just doing it better.”
AlabamaFord.com GOOD LUCK BUCS and WAR EAGLE!
Stan White
Color Announcer for Auburn University Football
JOHN CARROLL FOOTBALL
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
12 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
John Carroll Members of the 2017 John Carrol High School varsity football team include: Alex Mitchell, Redmon Ransom, Kenyetta Williams, Dilan Sherrod, Malcolm Russell, Matthew Hector, Chris Burrell, Bailey Mara, Demetrius Battle, Isiah Ambrose, Zach Elliot, Malik Williams, Jeremiah Fuller, Dwuan Williams, Conner Bader, Will Chamoun, Sam Reed, Jeremy Spencer, Lucas Stachan, Gyasi Hill, Dequan Ball, Chris Hector, Brandon Woodard, Jackson Jeffries, Braxton Buckner, K’shawn Mackie, Dekelian Hall, Sam Chamoun, Mark Richard, Quince Ngo, Caleb Mills, Cydrick Walker, Ethan Scholtz, Michael Watts, John Werszner, Shakir Hasan, Rahael Poe, Alex Sabri, Anthony Bostany, Asad Muhammed, Sam Lynch, Michael Musso, Ricky Zimmerman, Romel Jones, Kingston Lampley, Graham Russell and Bennett Buckner.
CARROLL COMEBACK Team is Starting the Year With Something to Look Forward to, Coach Says By Tyler Waldrep There wasn’t a trophy at stake, but John Carroll coach Logan Colafrancesco felt the same pressure on the sidelines that is often associated with the pursuit of championships. If his team blew the two-possession lead it held
over Moody last fall, then he knew he would lose not only the game, but the confidence of the kids on his team, as well. When time expired, Colafrancesco finally could relax. The 13-7 victory ended his alma mater’s losing streak at 14 games. “They (the students) went crazy,”
Colafrancesco said. “It was fun. It was a good experience for our school, the monkey’s off your back so to speak, but I told them I said ‘Get used to it. You don’t need to be storming the field anymore after that. Get used to winning.’” The Cavaliers added a 40-7 victory over Springville to finish the season with two wins for the first time since 2013. However, the school was forced to vacate those victories when it discovered and self-reported the use of an ineligible student on kickoff coverages. Colafrancesco said he isn’t concerned with getting his first official win this season. No one can take away the excitement that developed among the student body after his team won those games. “It was just a different feel walking down the hall,” Colafrancesco said. He said the students “had something to kind of look forward to and I think that really lifted our kids (on the team) up.” Most of the starters on the defensive side of the ball return. They will be joined by two guys Colafrancesco said could provide the spark his defense needs: Dilan Sherrod and Demetrius Battle. Of the two, Battle is the known quantity. He accounted for a number of the Cavaliers’ touchdowns as a running back in 2016, and now he will take his 6-feet 2-inches, KEY PLAYERS 235-pound frame Coach Logan to the other side of Colafrancesco with the ball as a linefront, from left: Cydrick backer. Walker, Michael Watts and Anthony Bostany. Colafrancesco Back: Dilan Sherrod said Battle is excitand Malcolm Russell. ed for the chance to play on both
AT A GLANCE
2016 record: 2-8 Head coach: Logan Colafrancesco Region: Class 6A, Region 5 Homewood, Hueytown, Jackson-Olin, Parker, Ramsay, Shades Valley. Stadium: Carroll Field (4,000)
sides of the ball this fall. Many of the colleges that are interested in the senior picture him making the switch to linebacker at the next level. “Dilan is 6-4, 248-250 (pounds), strong as a bull, and he’s going to kind of be a tight end, really h-back more guy,” Colafrancesco said. “We will have a package for him for a short-yardage quarterback package. Because if people do stack him, he can throw it.” Sherrod isn’t the only lineman who will be asked to pull double duty. Starting right guard Cydrick Walker probably won’t sit out many snaps on the defensive side of the ball as Colafrancesco said he also happens to be the team’s best defensive lineman. Two other seniors, Rahael Poe and Michael Watts, will be in the mix when it comes time to name the three defensive line starters for the Cavaliers. In addition to Battle, the primary contributors in the linebacker corps will include Zach Elliot, Chris Hector, Dequan Ball and the Cavalier Colafrancesco believes recorded more tackles than any of his teammates, Redmon Ransom. Three-year starter DWuan Williams will hold the cornerback position opposite Sam Reed. The two will likely be joined in the secondary by Gyasi Hill, who missed the rest of the season after tearing his ACL two games in last time around. Bennett Buckner is currently slated to handle all kicking duties, but he could share punting duties with Battle and senior quarterback Bailey Mara. Of the three, Battle seems the least likely. As a focal point of the offense, he’ll likely need his strength for the other two phases of the game, but he won’t be the only option in the backfield. Jeremiah Fuller, Dekelian Hall and Hill will all be asked to carry the football at different points this season. As a returning starter, Mara, is currently slated
to lead the offense this season. But to the surprise of the coaching staff, freshman Nicholas Sellers’ performance in the spring created a quarterback competition. Regardless of who wins the job, Colafrancesco needs the receivers, including starting corners Reed and Williams in addition to twins Chris and Matthew Hector, to do their part and create the separation needed to get open. The wide receivers will be led by returning starter Malcolm Russell. “If I need five yards, 10 yards, (I need to) find a way to get him the ball and he’ll find an open gap,” Colafrancesco said. Four of the guys asked to protect the quarterback long enough for those passes to be completed are returning starters. The three guys joining Walker for another year on the line include Anthony Bostany, John Werszner and Shakir Hasan. The list of guys competing for the fifth spot includes Graham Russell, Kingston Lampley, Caleb Mills and Gabe Wood. “They’re the strength of our team,” Colafrancesco said. “I really believe they’re the heart and soul of our team from an offensive standpoint. They got better last year.” If Colafrancesco is to be believed, they aren’t the only ones. “I can promise you our kids will play harder. I think that was evident last year,” Colafrancesco said. “They played harder, they played better because we demand it.”’ One key change that could pay dividends is having shorter practices as the season progresses to combat the fatigue that occurs when so many of the guys are asked to play well over 100 snaps on Friday nights. Some of that fatigue might also be lessened this year with 50 Cavaliers rostered, which is an increase of eight kids. “I think when you care about something, you work a little harder for it and I truly care about this school,” Colafrancesco said.
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 13
JOHN CARROLL FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OPPONENT John Carroll 2017 Schedule DATE
OPPONENT
Sept. 1
Hayden
Sept. 8
at Hueytown*
Sept. 15
Parker*
Sept. 21
at Jackson-Olin*
Sept. 29
at Moody
Oct. 6
Homewood*
Oct. 13
at Springville
Oct. 20
Ramsay*
Oct. 27
at Shades Valley*
Nov. 3
Pelham
*Region game
AlabamaFord.com Best Wishes Cavaliers and ROLL TIDE!
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
Eli Gold
Voice of University of Alabama Football
KNOW what to do in case of
suspected concussion. A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n n
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Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY Should be evaluated right away by a doctor/healthcare professional Should not be left alone Should not drive a motor vehicle
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For a clinic appointment, call 205.934.1041 Fax 205.975.6109
SPORTS MEDICINE
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SPORTS MEDICINE
In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER
MOUNTAIN BROOK FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Photos by Hank Spencer
14 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Members of the 2017 Mountain Brook High School varsity football team include: Hamp Greene, Forrest Whatley, Aubrey Hart, Walker McCraney, Tye Pouncey, Christian May, Logan Brewer, Charles Cobb, Harold Joiner, Edward Cain, Sam Higgins, Brinson Reed, AJ Gates, Daniel Wilbanks, Joe Bird, Wilson Higgins, Connor Hart, Hamp Sisson, Duncan Bicksler, Nick Belt, Strother Gibbs, Jackson Tew, Robert Reed, William Gullage, Ben Savage, James Burkett, Harrison Hodges, Bradford Page, Taylor Pankey, Huston Crommelin, Jay Rucker, Claiborne Crommelin, Jim Williams, William O’Leary, Baynes Autrey, Grant Griffin, Will Yarbro, William Miller, Blake Roth, Will Baynes, Aidan Hood, Adkins Roberts, Stone Favrot, Jack Norris, Crawford Golden, Avery Schelske, Boyd McWhorter, Collin Bussman, John Carotherrs, William Preston, Walter Morris, Archie Breland, Mark Smith, Edward Reed, Clark Griffin, Calvin Wilbanks, Jarret Harrison, Colton Yeager, Alden Chaney, Reid Manley, Clay Stearns, Brendan Brogan, Hugh Lawson Joy, Michael Mancuso, Sean Doud, Chip Porter, Bennett Suttles, Charles Regan, Jacob Lucas, Andrew Fuqua, Conner Sorrells, Braxton Wetzler, Jack Higgins, Zach Morris, Beau Hubbard, Trey Gory, Jackson Allison, Hayden McDonald, Bond Elliott, Will Carothers, Andrew Fleming, Anderson Tomlin, Sam Somerville, Austin Sikora, Mills Lowman, Henry Skinner, Alex Stokes, Jack Barron, Ian Hall, Braden Allemand, Will Christopher, Ford Kelly, Walker Masingill, Josh Nemet, Robert Briggs, Pierce Rodrigues, Jay Barze, Gavin Lee, Matthew Gray, Mason Brint, Cade Holmes and Will Bennett.
CHEMISTRY TEST Mountain Brook Aims to Recapture Last Year’s Magic
By Tyler Waldrep Mountain Brook wide receiver Hamp Greene suffered a compound dislocation in his right hand on a Monday afternoon during the 2016 season. With the bone protruding from the skin, head coach Chris Yeager was expecting his starting wide receiver to miss some time. Instead he got it stitched up and practiced the next day. “For a guy to do that, the team’s got to mean a lot to him,” Yeager said. “My whole thing was, will he be ready for Friday night? And he was, like, ‘I’ll be ready tomorrow.’” The Spartans are fresh off an 8-3 season that
ended with their first playoff berth since 2013. It’s safe to say the wins meant a lot after the school had to endure 3-7 seasons in 2014 and 2015. Maybe now Yeager won’t see so many homecoming banners lining the opposing sidelines. The Spartan’s head coach believes the turnaround and the character Greene showed with his swift return to practice share the same roots. “This is my 12th season,” Yeager said. “I can think of two years where the leadership has just been off the charts and this past year was one of them.” The other year? That happened to be 2010, otherwise known as the school’s last appearance
in the state semifinals. “I didn’t think we had great talent (in 2010), but I tell you what, the synergy and maximizing what we had – incredible,” Yeager said. If the Spartans can recapture the chemistry they possessed last season, then few teams in 7A might have the talent to stand against them, especially on offense, where Yeager can’t spit without hitting a three-year starter. Two of those guys, Greene and Wilson Higgins, will line up out wide for the Spartans. Other receivers expected to hear their names called this fall include Tye Poncey, Christian May and Pierce Rodrigues.
Mountain Brook
AT A GLANCE
Head Coach: Chris Yeager 2016 Record: 8-3 Region: Class 7A Region 3 Hoover, Huffman, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills Stadium: Spartan Stadium (5,000)
OPPONENT Mtn. Brook 2017 Schedule DATE
OPPONENT
Aug. 25
Gulf Shores
Sept. 1
at Helena
Sept. 8
Hoover*
Sept. 15
at Thompson*
Sept. 22
Spain Park*
Oct. 6
at Tuscaloosa County*
Oct. 13
Vestavia Hills*
Oct. 20
Oak Mountain* (HC)
Oct. 27
at Huffman*
Nov. 2 (Thurs.)
at Ramsay
*Region game
See SPARTANS, page 23
AlabamaFord.com Best Wishes Spartans and ROLL TIDE!
Eli Gold
Voice of University of Alabama Football
KEY PLAYERS
Coach Chris Yeager with, from left: Nick Belt, Will Carothers, Clay Stearns and Joe Bird.
on.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
MOUNTAIN BROOK FOOTBALL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 15
Go Spartans Hillary Weiss 205-879-8580 o 205- 876-3052 c hillaryw@lahrealestate.com
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OAK MOUNTAIN FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
16 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Members of the 2017 Oak Mountain High School varsity football team include: Connor Webb, Jacob Feenker, Madden McDougal, Fuller Herring, Clay Collins, Devin Stern, Russell Autry, Ethan Duncan, Luke Percer, Connor Wilson, Carson Bobo, Nathan Jones, Trey Allen, Christian Hood, Garrison Frisch, Brett Cruce, Zach Nelson, Dylan Hoye, Jacob Fitzgerald, Connor Kelley, Xzavier Brown, Jackson Murphy, Justin Evans, Jalen Thomas, Will Pfaffman, Jordan Davis, Travis Thomasson, Ben Handley, Ben Wilke, Jack Simmons, Zane Nelson, Gerald Austin, Jonathan Bennett, Kyle Percer, Sam West, Jimmy Harris, Josiah Ransom, Tyler DuBoi, Zach Paisley, Cole Thomas, Aaron Brooks, Cameron Whitlow, Zach Hagedorn, Tyler Mattox, Harrison Dimick, Bay Hughes, Dylan Moore, Andrew Bearden, Nik Heino, Reynolds Jones, Connor Hill, Zach Hollington, Gideon Lombardo, Tyler Martin, Alex Burns, Austin Smith, Brandon Stephens, Zach Bailey, Nathan Gordon, Jacob Goldfon, Sam Johnson, Daren Lanier, Nicholas Young, Cole Forbes, Jacob Payne, Carter Owens, Zykeius Strong and Zach Brown.
‘MAKE SOME NOISE’ Oak Mountain Trying to Crawl Back up the Ladder This Year
By Tyler Waldrep Oak Mountain coach Cris Bell has a new quarterback for the second consecutive season, but this
time around with Connor Webb, things feel a bit more familiar. “Warren’s (Shader) probably the best just pure option quarterback that, certainly at the high
school level, that I’ve coached,” Bell said. “But Connor is not Warren. … Connor has a lot of the same moxie that Warren has. They do (the same) things when they move on the field.” Oak Mountain fans will remember Shader as the quarterback who guided the Eagles’ to the school’s second-ever 10-win season in 2014. Back then, Webb was a quarterback, but the coaching staff moved him to free safety as a sophomore. He started at that position as a junior before the coaching staff moved him back for his final season. “We wanted to get our best athletes on the field as quick as we can, so we moved him there thinking that’s where he was going to project,” Bell said Still the move wasn’t for nothing. In the spring game against Helena, Webb was able to read the defense and adjust the offense accordingly without the aid of the coaching staff. “He’s not a rah-rah guy,” Bell said. “He’s unassuming, but when he talks those kids listen. I mean the kids respect him and I think the offense has really rallied around him.” Some of the guys asked KEY PLAYERS to keep Webb Coach Cris Bell with, front, from left: upright include Brett Cruce, Jackson returning starters Murphy and Jacob Feenker Zach Nelson. Back: and Madden Jordan Davis and McDougal. Carson Bobo. Fuller Herring
Oak Mountain
AT A GLANCE
Head Coach: Cris Bell 2016 Record: 3-8 Region: Class 7A, Region 3 Hoover, Huffman, Mountain Brook, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Spain Park, Vestavia Hills. Stadium: Heardmont Park (5,000)
and Clay Collins will join those two on the offensive line along with either Devin Stern or Russell Autry, depending on who earns the nod at left tackle. Of course at Oak Mountain it’s all about the ground game. The top two backs from last season, Daniel Salchert and Jaylin Gaines, are gone. A committee of guys will be asked to replace their production this season. Senior Ethan Duncan is likely the most balanced option in the Eagles’ offense. Luke Percer’s speed might make him the most dangerous perimeter option of the three, and Bell said he envisions Connor Wilson filling something more akin to the traditional fullback role. If there’s one guy on the offense that Bell believes is overlooked, it’s the 6-feet 5-inch, 215pound tight end Carson Bobo. Bell said Bobo is a bit of a late bloomer, which has hurt him from a recruiting standpoint, but it hasn’t stopped him from becoming a guy Bell believes could match up with anyone else in the country. Opposing defenses might have to pick their poison if they force the Eagles to air it out this season. If the opponent wants to neutralize Bobo, it’s not going to bother Bell. That likely opens things up for the wide receiver tandem of Nathan Jones, who is 6-feet 4-inches, and high jumper Trey Allen, who is 6-feet 2-inches. “It’s going to be hard for people to match up against us consistently and be able to play us across the board,” Bell said.
OAK MOUNTAIN FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
When the Eagles offense finds the end zone, or at least gets within field goal range, Bell will turn to kicker Christian Hood. Bell said that being former Clay-Chalkville coach Jerry Hood’s son had made Christian “tough, gritty, he’s kind of got a gunslinger’s mentality.” That attitude is sure to serve Hood well as one of the only backup defensive backups to lock down a spot with the second string. Garrison Frisch will replace Webb as the starting free safety while Brett Cruce and Zach Nelson resume their roles as starting corners. Dylan Hoye will start at strong safety while Jacob Fitzgerald, Connor Kelley and Xzavier Brown all compete to see the field as outside linebackers. “Those four guys, they’re all good football players,” Bell said. “Justin (has an) unbelievable motor. Jackson, he may be the best football player” on the team. Only one starter returns to the defensive line, Jordan Davis. However, he will move from the inside to the end position this year. Travis Thomasson will start at the other end position. Two former offensive players will fill out the rest of the line. Ben Handley moves from tight end to defensive tackle while offensive lineman Ben Wilke transitions from the offensive line to the nose tackle position. Bell is happy with the guys he has up front, but he would like his front a lot more if the Eagles hadn’t lost defensive tackle Jack Simmons for the season when he tore his ACL in the first half of the spring game against Helena. Despite the loss of Simmons and the recent three-win campaign, Bell is optimistic about the schedule ahead. He’s not ready to guarantee anything close to 10 wins again, but he believes his team probably lost confidence in itself and underachieved last season. “People are going to know they’ve been in a football game when they’ve played us,” Bell said. “We’re going to make some noise this year.”
OPPONENT Oak Mountain 2017 Schedule DATE
OPPONENT
Aug. 25
at Chelsea
Sept. 1
Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa
Sept. 8
Huffman*
Sept. 15
at Vestavia Hills*
Sept. 22
Thompson*
Oct. 6
at Hoover*
Oct. 13
Tuscaloosa County*
Oct. 20
at Mountain Brook*
Oct. 27
at Spain Park*
Nov. 3
Hazel Green
*Region game
AlabamaFord.com BEST WISHES EAGLES and WAR EAGLE!
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Color Announcer for Auburn University Football
Come as you are. You’ll fit right in.
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 17
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SPAIN PARK FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
18 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
Members of the 2017 Spain Park High School varsity football team include: D’arie Johnson, Cedric Tooson, Darrian Stringer, Trever Bernier, Josh Denson, Luke Blackmon, Jaden Jenkins, Mason Pronk, Mark Muir, Chris Mancill, Jalen McMillian, Zachary Robinson, Braxton Barker, Ryan Griffin, Clay Christian, Ronald Carl, Joshua Stanton, Josh Wallace, Michael Rogers, Kenyon Hines, Harrison Barker, Jo Jo Dennis, Jake Long, George Hill, Banks Harland, Jake Carver, Kameron McDaniel, Cole Starr, Kishawn Dawsey, Colton Ledbetter, Jalen Henderson, Braxton Hall, Victor Davis, Marcellus Payne, Manny Austin, Jacob Jenkins, Tyrece Mickens, Lionel Cook, Robert Cook, Scott Moates, Chris Johnson, Josh Burks, Demillion Simms, Khaleb Simmons, Darrien Lockhart, Hayes Cole, Dre Robinson, Darnell Brown, Creel Richardson, Zach Rushing, William Vinson, Kam Beckham, William Mote, Jack Guthrie, Donald Baylor, Dayton Hankins, Brell Patterson, Ethan Prolsdorfer, James Schweer, Claudio Sarniguet, Caleb Foster, Goodwin Tidwell, Chaze Bounds, Colton Punzel, David Shannon, Ryan Campbell, Abdulrahman Deeb, Josh Mullins, Casen Browning, Michael Fowler, Jaxon Bast, Jayme Simmons, Jalen Johnson, Cameron Young, Lee Miller, Dolan Wilson, Ashanti Carter, Neal Partin, Drew Hosemann, Ben Rice, Micheal Neal, Jake Horton, Steven Pate, Layth Abusuad, Jacob Pughsley, DeQarius Hill, Jay Tibbs, Richard Moses, Jaxson Lucas, Clifford Robinson, Zac Shaw and Blake Hester.
‘STICK WITH IT’
Spain Park Fleshes out Team With Players Who Weren’t Starters in the Past By Blake Ells Spain Park’s student-athletes are patient. After building a successful program, it’s been difficult to generously spread playing time to everyone, but coach Shawn Raney has developed a culture that encourages persistence by simultaneously challenging his athletes and allowing them to have fun. They work hard to raise money for first-class facilities, and Raney insists that he has surrounded himself with a staff that students want to be around. “In this day and age, a lot of kids will quit if they don’t see playing time,” said Raney. But he said high school programs are built on patient athletes. “When I was at Hoover, you’d look at kids as freshmen and think, ‘Man, that kid will never play for us,’ but they keep workKEY PLAYERS Coach Shawn Raney ing and they stay with, from left, D’arie in the program Johnson, Braxton and wind up havBarker and Cedric ing a great senior Tooson. year. I think (the senior class of
Spain Park
AT A GLANCE
Head coach: Shawn Raney 2016 Record: 8-3 (First round state playoffs) Region: Class 7A Region 3 Hoover, Huffman, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills Stadium: Finley Stadium (5,000)
2018) will do that for us.” The Jaguars finished 8-3 in 2016, losing to James Clemens in the first round of the state playoffs. It wasn’t a kind draw, but rather an abrupt conclusion to a very good season in the state’s most difficult high school football region. Spain Park finished third in that region, behind Hoover and Mountain Brook, which were responsible for their two regular season losses. Just three defensive starters from that team will return. Nearly the entire offensive line will be starting anew. The quarterback, tailback and six defensive players will be seniors who have never been full-time starters. Eight of those 12, Raney says, have never started a game. “We’ve got 30 seniors right now,” said Raney. “A lot of them haven’t played. That’s the thing about high school football; if you’ll stick with it, a lot of times you’ll get your chance to play at this level.” There’s some experience, sure. That begins with senior Braxton Barker, who won the starting quarterback position last season in week six. Raney said that Barker had a growth spurt – like his father, former University of Alabama quarterback Jay Barker – and shot from 5’8” to about 6’0” in the offseason. Junior Jalen Henderson will return. Last sea-
TROON HAMLET son, he spent time at fullback so the Jaguars could get him on the field, but he’ll return to a more natural tailback position for 2017, replacing Larry Wooden, who is now at Arkansas State. Henderson will be complemented by senior D’arie Johnson, who rushed for more than 900 yards last season. Barker will have at least one familiar target in Jalen McMillan, but he’ll also break in some new guys; juniors M.J. Rogers and Kenyon Hines, while inexperienced, are expected to contribute early and often. Out of the gate, the Jaguars schedule is daunting, to put it mildly. They’ll open with Gadsden City, then travel to Muscle Shoals and Vestavia Hills before hosting Hoover and traveling to Mountain Brook. A seasoned but inexperienced group will dive into its season headfirst. “In this region, you’re going to see everything offensively as well coached as you can see it,” Raney said. “Starting out with a Gadsden, you can hang that over kids’ heads in offseason workouts. We’re going to get it region-wise, but out of region, you try to schedule teams that will help you prepare for that region schedule. I think we’ve definitely got that in Gadsden City and Muscle Shoals.”
Journal file photo by Lee Walls Jr.
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 19
SPAIN PARK FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Junior Jalen Henderson spent time at fullback so the Jaguars could get him on the field, but he’ll return to a more natural tailback position for 2017.
OPPONENT Spain Park 2017 Schedule DATE
OPPONENT
Aug. 25
Gadsden City
Sept. 1
at Muscle Shoals
Sept. 8
at Vestavia Hills*
Sept. 15
Hoover*
Sept. 22
at Mountain Brook*
Oct. 6
at Huffman*
Oct. 13
Thompson* (HC)
Oct. 20
at Tuscaloosa County*
Oct. 27
Oak Mountain*
Nov. 2 (Thurs.)
Minor
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*Region game
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VESTAVIA HILLS FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
20 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
V H
Vestavia Hills Members of the 2017 Vestavia Hills High School varsity football team include: Cole Dothard, Caleb Huber, Everett Shea, Drew Stockard, William Jemison, Bryce Glenn, Ben Willoughby, Eric McKenzie, Ferguson Smith, Charlie Ball, Eli Sawyer, Wilson Owen, A.J. Sims, Greg Brown, Coleman Petway, Sean Smyth, Cole Johnston, Cam Blake, Kyler Santoro, Jonathan Hess, Charlie Stoves, Franklin Carder, Reed Stockton, Matthew Paugh, Kevin Cunningham, Andrew Knight, Errick Griggs, Colton Horne, Spencer Lawson, Frankie Donze, Sam Willoughby, Luke Denny, Sawyer Dutton, William Schaffeld, William Padgett, Charlie Dellaccio, Jake Fowler, Robby Flowers, Chandler Merrill, DeCameron Adamson, Tripp Lowery, Joe Phifer, Cooper Bishop, Josh Silverman, Sam Looney, Cameron Cacace, Will Brooks, Jake Levant, Jonathan Williams, Rob Barrentine, A.J. Powell, John David Adams, Michael Weaver, Andrew Cross, Devin Jones, Conyers Webster, Tucker Smith, Jay Cross, Andrew Sims, Andrew Manush, William Lott, Brayden Schick, Cal Stubbs, Markkus Griggs, Jack Kyle, Eli Bratton, Jaimel Foy, Cort Cooper, Oliver Gilbert, John Pounds, John Douglass, Lamar Swain, Termaine Brown, Gavin Harvey, Garrett Griffin, Grant McLean, Will White, Nathan Bullock, Drew Gurosky, Douglas Thompson, Garrison Dabbs, Ben Williams, Peyton Walraven, Michael Vice, Diego Melendez, John Winford, Jeffrey Weatherby, Andrew Bayham, Hunter Salmon, Bennett Whisenhunt, Jackson Trotman, Kade Cannon, Jake Pratt, Ben Jackson, Chatfield Webster, Jack Dunphy, Ryan Lockhart, Wells Watts, Jacobi McBride, Walker Bunn, Hampton Searcy and Conner Knighten.
‘I LIKE THIS TEAM’
AT A GLANCE
Head Coach: Buddy Anderson 2016 Record: 5-5 Region: Class 7A Region 3 Hoover, Huffman, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County. Stadium: Thompson Reynolds Stadium at Buddy Anderson Field (5,000)
Vestavia Hills 2017 Schedule DATE
OPPONENT
Aug. 25
Briarwood Jamboree
Vestavia Hills Coach Looks for Improvement in Coming Season
Sept. 1
at Homewood
Sept. 8
Spain Park*
By Blake Ells
Sept. 15
Oak Mountain*
Sept. 21 (Thurs.)
at Huffman*
Sept. 29
at Helena
Oct. 6
Thompson*
Oct. 13
at Mountain Brook*
Oct. 20
Hoover*
Oct. 27
at Tuscaloosa Cty*
Nov. 3
Shades Valley (HC)
The 2017 Vestavia Hills Rebels are dedicated and determined, and they’ll have to exercise both of those qualities to not only better themselves, but to navigate that task in the state’s most difficult region of high school football. “I like this team,” said coach Buddy Anderson, who is entering his 40th year at the helm. “I like how this team works. They’re hardworking, and I feel like we have a chance to be a really good defense.” Anderson easily names 11 secondary players he expects to rely on, a spot that appears to be a strength for the Rebels, which finished 5-5 without a playoff berth in 2016. Jonathan Hess, Spencer Lawson, Cam Blake, A.J. Sims, Cole Johnston, Andrew Knight, Luke Denny, William Jemison, Sam Willoughby, Charlie Stoves and
Will Brooks all expect to see the playing field, keeping everyone fresh. Juniors Rob Barrentine and Cooper Bishop return as starters to lead a linebacking corps that will work Wilson Owen, William Padgett, Conyers Webster and John Winford into the rotation. Jaimel Foy anchors a defensive line that will include Andrew Sims, A.J.’s twin brother, Grant McLean, Lamar Swain, Will White and Errick Griggs competing for time at tackle, and Hunter Salmon, Cameron Cacace, Jake Levant, Ryan Lockhart and Charlie Dellaccio taking turns at defensive end. Keeping opponents from scoring isn’t an overwhelming concern for Anderson as he seeks improvement. He also feels comfortable with his special teams. Caleb Huber will handle punting and kicking duties, while Jack Dunphy and
Sean Smyth offer reliability at long snapper and holder, respectively. It’s the gap between where the Rebels were and where they need to be on offense that is Anderson’s greatest concern. “We need to put more points on the board,” Anderson said. “We’ve got potential, but it’s going to take time and experience, and the only way you get experience is by playing. Rome wasn’t built in a day. There’s nothing instant about football. We’re going to put our nose to the grindstone and try to get better.” The Rebels reached the quarterfinals in 2015 and the semifinals in 2012. They’re not far removed from some of Anderson’s best teams, but last season’s disappointment makes those days seem much farther away. A returning starter at quarterback will help
*Region game
See VESTAVIA, page 23
AlabamaFord.com Good Luck Rebels and ROLL TIDE!
Eli Gold
Voice of University of Alabama Football
KEY PLAYERS
Coach Buddy Anderson with, from left: Andrew Knight, William Schaffeld, Jonathan Hess, Drew Gurosky, John David Adams and Cameron Cacace.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 21
VESTAVIA HILLS FOOTBALL
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22 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SPARTANS, From page 14
Quarterback Hamp Sisson, is starting his third season for the Spartans.
Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
“Well that means three years ago we were starting two sophomores. Well that ain’t a lot of fun,” Yeager said. “Athletic ability is wonderful, but experience, especially when it is a positive experience and you grow from it, I don’t think there’s anything like it.” Another pass catcher, tight end Clay Stearns, is yet another three-year starter. So it’s only fitting that the guy responsible for distributing the ball, quarterback Hamp Sisson, is also starting his third season for the Spartans. “Hamp, he’s no longer just a player, he’s no longer just the quarterback, he’s evolved into being another coach on the field,” Yeager said. “He may be one of the best I’ve ever seen at correcting guys and coaching guys and knowing what everybody (playing a skill position) around him does.” There might not be a player on Mountain Brook’s roster who hears more direction from Sisson than his backup, freshman Strother Gibbs. With offers from all over the country, running back Harold Joiner Jr. is another not-sosecret weapon for the Spartan’s offense. As good as Joiner is, Yeager has just as much confidence in his second string back, A.J. Gates. “They’re very close friends and they complement each other incredibly well,” Yeager said. “A.J. is a scat back, incredible vision, and then Harold is 220 pounds, it’s thunder and lightning.” The offensive linemen asked to provide the holes for the backs include guards Will Carothers and Michael Mancuso, tackles Zach Morris and Anderson Tomlin and center Jack Barron. The Spartans starting center from 2016, Sean Doud, remains on the team and could occasion-
through fall camp and stuff he became a playmaker for us and was one of the best surprises of the year. I told the guys going into the spring ‘I want eight Nick Belts this year. I want eight good surprises.’” Yeager said back-to-back road trips – to Hoover on Sept. 8 and Thompson on Sept. 15 – could provide the Spartans with their stiffest challenge all season. Of course, there’s no breathers in Class 7A, Region 3. The lessons Mountain Brook learned in 2014 and 2015 were critical to last year’s success, and Yeager is glad to have plenty of guys in uniform who remember what those seasons felt like. “Anytime we feel that we’re getting complacent or anytime we think we’re just having an ordinary day, we can remind them ‘OK, you know how this movie ends,’” Yeager said.
JOINER, From page 2
ally see some time at center. But his main role in 2017 will be on the defensive line. “We’ve got 105 players on our team and he (Doud) probably runs better than 100 of them,” Yeager said. Joe Bird, one of three returning starters on the Spartan defense, will join Doud on the line. Trey Gory, Gavin Lee, James Burkett and Archie Breland will also see significant time on Mountain Brook’s defensive line. One of the few guys who could beat Doud in a foot race, Jim Williams, will occupy one safety spot while Grant Griffin holds down the other one. Yeager said four corners – Walter Morris, Charles Cobb, Walker McCraney and Aubrey Hart – will rotate in this year. Two starters from last season, Colton Yeager
and Nick Belt, return this season to lead the inside and outside linebackers, respectively. Daniel Wilbanks and Avery Schelske will also start inside while the other outside linebacker position remains open for competition. A competition also ensues for kicking duties. Aidan Hood returns from last season, but sophomore Adkins Roberts has made great strides in the offseason to close the gap. Months ago, at the end of spring, Yeager said he worried about the defense. Now with the season just around the corner, the coach has left those concerns behind him. His new starters have shown him they have the potential to do their part. Yeager said that last year at this time, “We didn’t even know who Nick Belt was. And
not going to be there. I’m not going to be there,’” Yeager said. “‘I want Harold trained that when we’re not there, he can function on his own and he can succeed on his own. That’s why I want him at Mountain Brook.’” It’s a decision that already has paid dividends for both the running back and the school. But with a number of three-year starters joining Joiner Jr. on the offensive side of the ball, it seems safe to say that the Spartan isn’t done adding to his highlight reel just yet. “I’m just ready for the season to start, and I hope the guys have a great season,” Joiner Sr. said. “There wouldn’t be nothing like competing for the state and bringing it home to Mountain Brook.”
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HOMEWOOD, From page 8
Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
matchup in town with an opener against Pelham at Samford’s Seibert Stadium on Aug. 24 at 7 p.m. Berguson sees cause for optimism this year as Homewood starts with some experience and a stingy defense. “I feel a lot better now than I did at this point last season,” the coach said. “We’ve got four back on offense, and we’ve got eight back on defense. And we really feel great about that defense.” Among those offensive returning starters are junior quarterback Larkin Williams, who split time under center in 2016, and senior wide receiver TyShawn Buckner. Two returning offensive linemen should give Williams some confidence; seniors Harry Moody and Joseph Ingram know how to give him some time to connect with Buckner. Berguson expects sophomore Jacoby Harris
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL to complement Moody and Ingram nicely. Before entering his sophomore year, the transfer already was 6-feet 3-inches and 280 pounds. The Patriots expect to be successful on the ground. Junior David Robertson and senior Nick McCoy wear #1 and #2, respectively, with the former slashing through opposing defenses and the latter providing a power run game – a figurative and literal 1-2 punch. Working out of a 3-4 defense, the Patriots will start John Firnberg and John Andrew Dill on the ends with Antoine McGhee at nose tackle. Trent Owens and Devin Bacchus are the outside linebackers, while Parker Allen and Crawford Doyle will defend the inside. Homewood’s secondary is its’ greatest strength, led by C.D. Daniels. Daniels, who verbally committed to Memphis over Mississippi State, had seven interceptions as a junior and four as a sophomore. He began his career at safety, but he moved to cornerback last season. This year, he’ll hope to add a spark on the offensive side of the ball as well. Berguson said he expects Daniels to get at least a dozen offensive snaps per game. “He’s the best athlete at Homewood High School,” Berguson said. The receiving corps will need the help. Buckner is a great weapon but, alone, his threat will be stymied. Wesley Williams brings some experience to the group, but the collective is otherwise very young. In the secondary, Daniels will be complemented by Jaden Alexander and Chance Hall splitting time at the other corner, while seniors Kris Wilkins and Jackson Griggs will be at safety. If Homewood’s defense is up to the task, the Patriots can return to their winning ways in 2017. Their postseason threat may rest on how many of each week’s 48 minutes Daniels can play. Ben Berguson said C.D. Daniels, left, is “the best athlete at Homewood High School.”
Thursday, August 24, 2017 • 23
Vestavia quarterback Coleman Petway brings senior leadership to a young offense.
VESTAVIA, From page 20
ease that anxiety. Coleman Petway brings senior leadership to a young offense, and he’ll be able to rely on experience in his backfield from senior Reed Stockton and junior Josh Silverman, who’ll be used as a fullback. He won’t, however, have any returners at wide receiver. Senior receivers Everett Shea, Ben
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Willoughby, Drew Stockard, Robby Flowers, Bryce Glenn and Charlie Ball and junior Johnny Williams are going to have an opportunity to prove themselves. If one or two can answer the call and allow Petway and the Rebels’ offense some balance, it could pave the return path to the postseason. Vestavia Hills will host Briarwood Christian for a jamboree Aug. 25, pitting two of the state’s most accomplished coaches against one another The Rebels begin their season in earnest at Homewood on Sept. 1.
Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
24 • Thursday, August 24, 2017
OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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