OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM
SOCIAL
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2020
SPORTS
OTMJ Celebrates 30 Years
Masked Up and READY TO GO OTM School Systems Pencil in Plans for Fall, But They Might Have to Use the Eraser See schools, page 24 and sports, page 28
Shipt delivery excludes alcohol
Journal photo by Joran Wald
Journal photo by Marvin Gentry
Vestavia Hills High School football coach Buddy Anderson checks for masks on picture day held at the school on July 23. High school football is set to kick off on Aug. 21. Inset, the Mountain Brook High School marching band at a recent practice is following social distancing guidelines.
This year marks a milestone for Over The Mountain Journal, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary serving the communities of Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County. Looking back at our first issue, published on Aug. 2, 1990, we started as we meant to go on: making it our mission to highlight the interesting people and exciting events that make Over the Mountain life so enjoyable. The OTMJ debuted with a profile of Mike Thompson and the 1990 PGA Golf Tournament Championship at Shoal Creek, an interview with local golf legend Hubert Green, “A Day in the Life” of meteorologist Jerry Tracey, and more. Over the years, we’ve written about the achievements of area students in the classroom as well as in extracurricular activities. Many of these young people, like their parents, have distinguished themselves by the commitments they’ve made to help make the world a better place. We love telling their stories. Events and galas, mostly virtual these days, have played a big part in our editorial coverage. Shining a light on people and the causes they support has been both fun and gratifying. Our message from the beginning was that we were “all about you.” We have stayed true to that focus over the last 30 years. That’s been made possible, even in challenging times like these, thanks to the support of local advertisers interested in reaching the best readers in the state. Year after year, that’s the greatest birthday present we could possibly receive. —Maury Wald, publisher Over The Mountain Journal
2 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
OPINION/CONTENTS
Inside
Murphy’s Law
M NOW MORE THAN EVER L’Chaim 2020 to Honor David and Susan Silverstein, Feature Speakers Madeleine Albright and Bruce Pearl PAGE 8
TOGETHER, APART Local Community Respite Programs Find Ways to Be Social While Remaining Socially Distant PAGE 12
GOOD MOVE Homewood Couple Donates House to Build UP PAGE 18
THE GLEAN MACHINE Society of St. Andrew Connects Volunteers, Farms and Feeding Agencies PAGE 22
ABOUT TOWN PEOPLE NEWS LIFE SOCIAL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
4 8 10 12 14
WEDDINGS HOME FOOD SCHOOLS SPORTS
17 18 22 24 28
otmj.com With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area. To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.
And What Have We Learned?
y goodness, this has been a dinosaur teeth, it’s better when you do it with a wide, wide spectrum. busy summer — and spring Secondly, I learned that taking self— and what passed for the ies is not my strong suit. My arms are tail end of winter. We’ve been through so short that my face ends up looking so many rabbit holes that it feels like like a reflection in a doorknob or one an Alice in Wonderland adventure. of those hooded intruder shots on Some people say Jumanji, but I somebody’s Ring doorbell system. If I rewatched the movie and my experireally need my picture taken, I’ll just ence these past few months has been come stand on your doorstep. less “roll the dice and find a way out” The biggest thing I’ve learned over and more inexplicably “off with her head!” the summer, however, is that kids need Pandemic not enough to make you other kids. A 5-year-old friend of mine Sue Murphy yell, “Curiouser and curiouser!”? marched up to his mother last week How about swarms of locusts three and said, “I want to play with someone times the size of New York City who is not Melania.” (Melania Pandemic not enough being his sister and not the presi(the swarms, not the locusts) systematically eating their way across dent’s wife, in this case.) I get it. to make you yell, two continents? Not our continent, Sisters are fine to play with for a “Curiouser and thank goodness, although, somewhile, but it’s part of their DNA to body needs to knock on wood right curiouser!”? How disrupt and derail their sibling’s happiness. now because who could have anticiabout swarms of Grownups are a poor playmate pated the rest of this mess? Here’s another fun fact I came locusts three times the substitute, too. First of all, they’re not good hiders. It’s like they’re not across: On May 29th, astronomers size of New York City even trying. They do Lego construcnoticed a new family of sunspots. tions according to the directions, I’m not talking about those annoying shadows on the back of your hand. I mean complex and when you play superheroes, they have this insane notion that the goal is for everyone, even the Batman magnetic fields that may or may not indicate increased solar activity that may or may not take out our GPS sat- and Joker, to be friends. ellites. That’s a lot of not knowing. No, a kid needs to play with another kid who also There are a lot more things I don’t know. Are bonds likes to jump off furniture, who clearly sees the couch as a good investment right now? Is there a way to supa fort, who thinks a demolition derby with pilfered press self-rising flour? Is there any point in wearing Barbie dolls (Melania’s) at the wheel of your remote control cars is worth the angry sister fallout. mascara on a day when the only one who sees you is the dog? Points to ponder, my friends. It’s a scary world right now. I know we have to be as I did manage to glean a few pearls of wisdom over careful as humanly possible, but I also know that kids the summer. First of all, despite what your mother told need other kids, non-related, other-household kids. They you, Playdough is more rather than less fun when you need someone to play with who is not Melania. So, I’m mix all the colors together. Really. I don’t care whether throwing up a little prayer that this back-to-school effort you’re rolling or cutting or extruding or making pretend goes well. Actually, it’s a big prayer. We may need it.
Over the Mountain Views
Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale Draws Shoppers, Smiles
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
The Homewood Chamber of Commerce’s annual Downtown Homewood Sidewalk Sale took place on July 25, offering an outdoor, socially distant shopping experience to members of the community, with participating merchants offering deals throughout the day. Liza’s Lemonade stand outside Savages’ Bakery & Deli was a popular place to cool off.
August 6, 2020 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Emily Williams, Sam Prickett Photographer: Jordan Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Vol. 30, No. 1
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 2020 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.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 3
ABOUT TOWN
YOUR HEALTH, YOUR WAY. These days, having access to nationally-recognized health care is more important than ever. So we make it easy by providing a variety of ways for you to get the care you need. Online, by video or in person, UAB Medicine is here for you – and ready to help – in whatever way you choose. It’s our way of making sure you get the right care, the right way.
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
Cancer Never Stops
Hope Gala Goes Virtual to Share Stories of Five Cancer Survivors
AUG 6 - AUG 20 Thurs., Aug. 6 The Politics of Design
Photos courtesy America Cancer Society
Mary Gene Boulware
What: James Williams, design director at BMA, leads a discussion on how we communicate beyond the art in our galleries. He will examine the language of graphic design and the ways in which inherent biases can lead to miscommunication for a global audience. When: 10:30 a.m.-noon Where: Birmingham Museum of Art Website: artsbma.org
Exceptional Foundation Participant Fashion Show
Birmingham Hope Gala co-chairs Carey Wahlheim, left, and Kristen Ritter.
For the past 40 years, the American Cancer Society’s Alabama chapter has hosted its annual Birmingham Hope Gala in support of the organization’s mission to fund groundbreaking cancer research, support education and prevention efforts and provide patient support. Before the pandemic effects, this year’s gala was scheduled to take place Aug. 21, organized by co-chairs Kristen Ritter and Carey Wahlheim “Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event is going to look a bit different,” said Wahlheim. Among the population of people at high risk of contracting the coronavirus are patients currently undergoing cancer treatments, who are immunocompromised. “This fight against cancer is at risk of being affected by COVID-19,” Wahlheim said. “Cancer never stops, and neither do we.” Wahlheim and Ritter noted that rather than hosting a gala, an online fundraising campaign has been established at acshopegala.swell.gives to champion this year’s theme “Pearls of Wisdom.” Throughout the campaign, Ritter, Wahlheim and their fellow ACS Birmingham supporters will be highlighting the stories of five cancer survivors who also continue to support the efforts of the American Cancer Society. On the site, each of this year’s honorees share “pearls of wisdom” from their personal experiences with cancer, through their relationship with cancer and their journey to survivorship. The honorees include Mary Gene Boulware, 25-year breast cancer survivor; Donna Greene, 22-year breast cancer survivor; Val Holman, 16-year breast cancer survivor; Rosilyn Houston, 10-year thyroid cancer survivor; and DA Tynes, 20-year breast cancer survivor. For more information and updates, visit acshopegala.swell.gives. —Emily Williams
Donna Greene
What: This socially distanced, mask inclusive fashion show celebrates the individuality and creativity of the exceptional participants at the Exceptional Foundation. When: 10 a.m.-noon Where: The Exceptional Foundation Website: exceptionalfoundation.org
Fri., Aug. 7 Virtual Heart of the House Gala
Val Holman
What: Ronald McDonald House Charities is changing its annual in-person gala to a virtual party, including a live-streamed party on Aug. 7 via Facebook and YouTube. Bid on silent auction items via mobile devices, beginning one week before the main event. Website: rmhca.org
Aug. 7,14 and 21 Free Friday Flicks Rosilyn Houston
What: Grab a blanket, your family and friends and watch a free, familyfriendly movie. Aug. 7, Frozen II; Aug. 14, Aladdin (live action); Aug. 21, Sonic the Hedgehog When: 6:30-10 p.m. Where: Veterans Park Website: hooveral.org
Sat., Aug. 8 DA Tynes
Crestline Tent Sale
What: Participating merchants will offer specials and discounts throughout the day. Shop safely by wearing a mask and social distancing.
When: Check with individual merchants for sale operations Where: Crestline Village Website: mtnbrookchamber.org
Sidewalk Film Mix + Flix Fundraiser
What: Enjoy a virtual cocktail party with movie trivia and movie-themed cocktails. Order your cocktail kit online until Aug. 7. Kits contain enough ingredients to make one drink recipe for four. When and Where: Kit pickup, Aug. 6-7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Aug. 8, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Sidewalk Film Center and Cinema; party, Aug. 8 at 5 p.m. on Facebook Live Website: “Sidewalk Film” Facebook page
Aug. 10-15 Be-You-tiful Birmingham
What: Join The Arc of Central Alabama in a virtual fashion show and silent auction fundraiser featuring models with intellectual and developmental disabilities. When: Aug. 10 at noon until Aug. 15 at 11:59 p.m. Website: “BeYoutiful BHM 2020” Facebook page
Thurs., Aug 13 Virtual Hands Up Together
What: Colat Jewish Family Services presents a virtual event honoring Marjorie Perlman to benefit CJFS and its mission to enrich life and support independence for older adults, regardless of ability to pay. When: 5:30-6 p.m. Website: cjfsbham.org
Fri., Aug 14 Tail-Waggin’ Takeout
What: Hand in Paw has changed its Picasso Pets to a date-night takeout, including an appetizer, bottle of wine, gourmet cookies for humans and dogs, a cocktail kit from Tito’s Handmade Vodka and entertainment. When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Hand in Paw parking lot Website: handinpaw.org
Aug. 14-31 Birmingham Restaraunt Week Continued on page 7
ART FROM THE HEART | AUG. 20-23
What: Studio by the Tracks hosts an online silent auction featuring hundreds of original artwork from its studio artists alongside donating artists from around the country. Items include paintings, jewelry ceramics and more. When: Bidding begins noon, Aug. 20; ending, 8 p.m. Aug. 23 Where: studiobythetracks/ artfromtheheart Website: studiobythetracks.org
Courtesy Studio by the Tracks
4 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN By Emily Williams
Next month, the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club will introduce a new fundraiser, Hike the Hill, designed to accommodate the pandemic-induced “new normal.” Participants will have from Sept. 1 until Sept. 20 to “hike the hill,” an approximately 1.5-mile course that begins at Little Shades Creek Bridge on Morgan Road and continues past Vestavia Hills High School, ending at the corner of Lime Rock Road and Panorama Drive. According to Vestavia Hills Rotary Club member and Hike the Hill Chairperson Kent Howard, the race has been expanded over the course of 20 days to allow all participants to complete the course at their own pace, while Vestavia Hills Rotary Creates also providing ample Hike the Hill Fundraiser to space to socially distance. Longtime Vestavia Support PTO and Club Programs Hills High School football coach Buddy Anderson will be the offi- Discussing plans at the site of the inaugural Hike the Hill event last week were, from right: VHCS PTO President Kristin Tunnell; Vestavia Hills Rotary Club member and Hike the cial event starter. Hill Chairperson Kent Howard; Rotarian and Vestavia Hills School Superintendent Todd Typically, the club Freeman; and Vestavia Hills Rotary Club President Maury Wald. spends much of the spring and summer preparing for their largest fundraiser of of great races in the area, and the idea George Gammill and Joe Perez. was stored away for another day. Howard noted that it was a comthe year, Iron City Chef. That is an “The time seemed right to create a munity effort, with committee memIron Chef-style event hosted in partfun community activity for families bers’ families pitching in to help as nership with Jefferson State and students that recognizes social well. Jordan’s wife, Ann, came up Community College’s Culinary and distance and full of teaching moments with the event name and Wald’s Hospitality Institute. daughter, Eve Wald Byrne, a graphic “Last year we held our 11th annual related to overcoming obstacles. Hike designer and graduate of Vestavia ICC fundraiser and we had more peo- the Hill is the event that allows us to expand our support beyond Rotary Hills High School, helped create the ple show up than ever before,” said legacy program to include other logo design. member Kent Howard. Upwards of Vestavia school programs, like the Funds raised will continue to ben400 people gathered at Holy Trinity (Parent Teacher Organization),” efit the club’s existing initiatives, both Cross Greek Orthodox Church for international and local, but the spotthat event. It was a plan they expected Howard said. Beginning in April, the 2019 Iron light will be focused on celebrating to revisit for the 2020 event, but then City Chef planning committee met and expanding VHCS PTO programs. COVID-19 struck. It became increasingly clear that virtually weekly to plan what has For years, when Howard drove up the PTO, like all of us, would be become Hike the Hill. Members of the very hill where the hike will take looking at a new normal due to the that committee are Gary Jordan, Ted place, he pictured a potential fundpandemic, Howard noted, with the Strong, Georgia Medori, Joe raiser. He and other members possibility of some of their regular Strickland, Cristen Eustice, Steve reviewed the idea about seven or events and fundraisers being negativeOdle, Maury Wald, Mona Fisher eight years ago, but there were a lot ly impacted. When the Hike the Hill committee reached out to fellow GETTING READY FOR A MOVE? Rotarian and Vestavia Hills School CALL CLIMATE Superintendent Todd Freeman and STORAGE VHCS PTO President Kristin Tunnell, FOR THE they received nothing but positive EASY BUTTON feedback. “The community is already jumping on board, signing up, and our business sponsors are stepping up, as in years past,” Howard said. “We PHASE II OPENING SOON believe Hike the Hill will become an Store and Organize your things. Let us help you with storing your annual event to celebrate our schools, things before, during or after your move. You can rent your new unit students and community.” completely online and we pratice social distancing. Those interested in participating in Call us today to arrange Your New Space! the hike can register at vestaviarotary. FREE 24 HOUR ACCESS • FREE WiFi org and join their preferred school’s FREE MOVE IN TRUCK • FREE LOCK & KEYS PTO Team. A portion of the registraFIRST MONTH FREE! JUST MENTION THIS AD! tion fee will support the selected PTO’s efforts to support student edu720 MONTCLAIR ROAD cation that includes classroom grants.
Climb Every Mountain
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6 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Continued from page 4 What: Food and drink lovers with a taste for adventure can enjoy special lunch or dinner 2- and 3-course, prix-fixe menus. This year’s 18-day event offers dine-in, curbside, to-go and delivery options. Where and When: Check the website for participating merchants Website: bhamrestaruantweek.com
SAVE THE DATE Fri., Aug. 21 Clays 4 Kids
What: Enjoy a continental breakfast, lunch and a chance to win prizes at aTeam Ministries annual sporting clays tournament. This is a great event for the most advanced as well as the first-time shooter. When: 8 a.m., registration; 9 a.m., safety presentation, 9:30 a.m., clay shoot Where: Selwood Farm Website: ateamministries.org
Aug. 22 and 23 Bow-Up Against Breast Cancer
What: Heritage Archery Club and the BCRFA present a 3-D archery tournament to include a silent auction and prize drawings. Proceeds
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 7
ABOUT TOWN benefit research at the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. When: 7 a.m. Where: Heritage Archery Club, Cullman Website: bcrfa.org
Aug. 24-30 Sidewalk Film Festival
What: This year’s festival will transition to a drive-in, providing this year’s attendees with a safe option to view the more than 150 features and short films set to screen. Each night will feature films on four different screens. When: Gates open, 6:30; films, 8 p.m. Where: The Grand River Drive-In at the Backyard of the Outlet Shops of Grand River, Leeds Website: sidewalkfest.com
Sat., Aug. 29 R(un) for One 5K
What: Lifeline presents its ninth annual 5K, where 100% of the proceeds benefit (un)adopted, Lifeline’s international orphan care ministry. This years run will highlight the country of Liberia. When: 8 a.m.-noon Where: Veterans Park Website: lifelinechild.org
Tailgate Challenge at Home
What: Enjoy a tailgate party in the comfort and safety of your own home while sharing the experience with family, friends and football fans from all over. Proceeds benefit The Bell Center’s mission to maximize the potential of children at risk for
developmental delay. When: 11 a.m.2 p.m. Website: thebellcenter.org
Childcare Resources Virtual Fairy Tale Ball
What: Dress in your Fairy Tale best and enjoy a live streamed DJ, meetn-greet with characters, a magic show, create a craft, Jedi Academy, children’s packets delivered by a Fairy Tale character and more. When: 5:30 p.m. Website: ccr-bhm.org
L I V E L U X U R I O U S LY I N UPTOWN HOMEWOOD
Journey of HOPE “At Home”
What: Share in an evening of inspiration, achievement and entertainment by coming together in a live-stream event honoring the staff and memory of Dr. Gary Edwards, United Abilitiy’s CEO of nearly 38 years. When: Stream begins, 6:30 p.m.; live program, 7 p.m. Website: unitedability.org
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Sept. 3-Dec. 10 GriefShare
What: During this 14-week series, trained facilitators, who have experienced grief themselves, guide participants through and provide them with the tools and resources necessary to move forward. College age or older. When: Thursday nights, 7 p.m.-8:45 p.m., excluding Thanksgiving Where: Faith Presbyterian Church, lower level Website: griefshare.org/groups/63460 Send About Town items to: editorial@otmj.com
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Look Forward.
6/5/20 9:20 AM
8 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
PEOPLE
By Emily Williams
Silverstein has been spending a decent amount of time at his lake house during the pandemic and spent some of the down time
Now More Than Ever L’Chaim 2020 to Honor David and Susan Silverstein, Feature Speakers Madeleine Albright and Bruce Pearl
We Offer
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
reading Albright’s new book “Hell and Other Destinations: A 21st Century Memoir.” Charlottesville Was a Wake-Up Call “I thought, I’ll just go and send her an Silverstein noted that the Charlottesville email and see if she would be willing to particrallies conducted by neo-Nazi and white ipate virtually with L’Chaim,” Silverstein said. supremacist groups in August 2017 were a He reached out to her consulting firm in wake-up call for many, including himself. “Seeing those individuals carrying torches Washington, D.C., on a whim, believing it to and walking around synagogues,” he said. “It be a longshot. really was so evil. It was so scary, and I can “So, I drafted an email to the former secreonly imagine what it must have been like in tary of state,” he said with a chuckle. “I think I • In-Home Care, Including Bathing, Grooming, Housekeeping, Guest speakers will include former U.S. 1941 in Europe, having someone knock on worked on it for about a day and a half, makSecretary of State Madeleine Albright and Care,your door and take your family away and put ing sure every word was the right word. Meal Preparation, Incontinence Medication Reminders Auburn University head men’s basketball coach them on cattle cars for extermination,” he said. “I drafted the email, hit the send button and and Transportation Bruce Pearl. The rallies were just one instance that, for didn’t know what response, if any, I would Photo courtesy BHEC
It Was Worth a Try
Honorees for this year’s event will be longtime BHEC supporters Susan and David Silverstein. Photo courtesy BHEC
Each year, the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center celebrates life with its L’Chaim fundraising event, blending live entertainment with a program to highlight its mission to provide Holocaust education while preserving the stories of local Holocaust survivors. This year’s event, themed “Now More Than Ever,” will take place virtually on Aug. 23, featuring performances that have been arranged by Keith Cromwell of Red Mountain Theatre Company. Guest speakers will include former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and Auburn University head men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl. Honorees for this year’s event will be longtime BHEC supporters Susan and David Silverstein. David Silverstein, president of the FiveStone Group and former principal at Bayer Properties, noted that his relationship with the BHEC has spanned more than a decade, having lent the center office space in one of his properties on Arlington Avenue. When asked to serve as the honorees for this year’s event, Silverstein said, he and his wife were humbled. “I’ve always been somewhat reluctant to be the honoree,” he said. “I’d rather do the work behind the scenes ... but I believe in the program and I believe in the mission.” Though the Silversteins have lent their names and faces to the event this year, he has still put in that behind-the-scenes effort to help nail down one of this year’s speakers.
get.” About one week later, Albright’s director of communications called and spoke with Silverstein for about 45 minutes about the organization and event, leaving the call with the promise that she would speak to Albright about the opportunity. “The very next day, she called me and let me know that (Albright) would make the opening remarks,” he said. “I just about fell out of the chair.” Though he has enjoyed attending L’Chaim in years past, when it mostly has been held at the Dorothy Jemison Day Theatre at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, Silverstein hopes that going virtual will allow more people to participate who haven’t previously been able to attend. “(The center) is one of these behind-thescenes organizations that people still may not know much about, yet the center does such important work – not just in Birmingham, but across the state,” Silverstein said. Education regarding the Holocaust is a serious subject that requires the correct approach, but it holds so many important lessons that can be connected to the world today, he said.
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Silverstein, reinforced the work that the BHEC does in the state of Alabama and how important education is in promoting tolerance. “The atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust have not been forgotten, and we are doing what we can to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” he said. “I think one of the key elements to ensuring that something like that doesn’t happen again is education.” According to organization officials, both guest speakers at the L’Chaim event will, “share words of hope, empowerment and why Holocaust education is critical today.” “Now more than ever, the BHEC is dedicated to preserving and sharing our Alabama Holocaust Survivors’ stories, which are powerful reminders to us all, of the consequences of hate, and silence in the face of hate. Even during this challenging COVID-19 pandemic, we are empowering teachers and our greater community through Holocaust education online workshops,” said the Rev. Melissa Self Patrick, executive director of Birmingham Holocaust Education Center. The event will take place Aug. 23 online at 2 p.m. It is presented by Medical Properties Trust and is cochaired by Kate Cotton, Cathy O. Friedman and Jim Richardson. For more information, visit bheclchaim.swell.gives or call 205-7954176.
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 9
PEOPLE Bruce Steps Down from Children’s Theatre, Interim Director Named Birmingham Children’s Theatre Executive Artistic Director Brandon Bruce will be leaving his post, which he has held since 2016. Ashley Woods, who has been with the theater since 2017, will assume the title of interim executive director in early August. Bruce will be moving to North Carolina, where his spouse has been offered a senior level position with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “The past 4 years at BCT Ashley Woods have been absolutely magical for me,” Bruce said in a statement from the theater. “I am extremely grateful to BCT’s board of trustees, staff and every single artist with whom I have collaborated since 2016. Most of all, however, I am grateful to the children, teachers and parents who have left a permanent mark on my life. I hope to work with BCT regularly in the future and will forever remain a friend and ally of this organization.” Woods, who has been managing director of the theater, said she is excited to tackle her new leadership role. “As we face one of the most unusual seasons in BCT’s 73 year history,”
Wood said in the statement, “I am inspired by the creativity of our team and energized by the possibility of finding new ways to create and connect with our community. I am grateful to Brandon for his leadership and honored to carry forward BCT’s essential mission to educate, enrich and entertain the youth of Alabama.” Members of the board said that, while they will miss Bruce, they are excited to see where the theater can go under Woods’ leadership. “Our area is fortunate to have one of the nation’s oldest professional theatre companies for young audiences and is in a select group of cities to host such an organization,” Chris Cain, president of the theater’s board, said in the statement.
Get Ready for Fall at
Vestavia Hills Rotary Club Announces New Officers Vestavia Hills Rotary Club officers for 2020-2021 were installed July 7 during a virtual Zoom meeting. Maury Wald assumed the presidency from outgoing President Steven Marmurek. Other officers installed were: Joe Strickland, president elect; George Heinemann, secretary; Joe Perez, treasurer; Steve Marmurek, past president. Also taking on leadership roles: Steve Odle, membership; Bruce Berthon, service projects; Don Wiginton, parliamentarian, David Whitt, Club Foundation and Mona Fisher, publicity.
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NEWS
10 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
When Alabama Sports Hall of Fame board Chairman Edgar Welden and Executive Director Scott Myers paid Robbie Robertson a visit in the fall, Robertson figured they wanted his ideas for the 2020 induction banquet. After all, Robertson is founder, president and CEO of the Colonnade Group, which offers event services in the areas of premium seating management, temporary structures, interactive fan events and VIP hospitality experiences. The Colonnade Group’s clients include more than a dozen Division I universities, the nation’s largest collegiate athletic conferences, the NCAA and the College Football Playoff. But Welden and Myers had something else in mind, and it floored Robertson. Welden and Myers informed Robertson that he was going to be recognized as the ASHOF 2020 Distinguished American Sportsman. “They told me I needed to get the distinguished sportsman award and I thought I’d have a heart attack,” Robertson recalled. “I wasn’t looking for anything like that. It took me a while to get over it. I was totally overwhelmed. “When I look at some of the others who have gotten it like Bob Hope, President (George H.W.) Bush and Charles O. Finley, I don’t travel in that
‘Totally Overwhelmed’
Robertson in Awe of Distinguished American Sportsman Honor kind of company. I don’t see myself that way.” Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the ASHOF held its 52nd annual induction ceremony virtually on Aug. 1. It originally had been scheduled for May 2 at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. “We all cut a video acceptance,” Robertston said. “I jokingly told Scott I had gotten mine down to 42 minutes. He said that’s all right, they were cutting me off at 4 minutes.” Robertson held a watch party at his home with family and friends for the virtual ceremony. He said he enjoyed seeing all the other inductees in the 2020 ASHOF class, including his close friends Steve Shaw, a football official, and Duane Reboul, the former Birmingham-Southern College basketball coach who is coming out of retirement to be an assistant at Samford University next season. Also in the class were football player Ronnie Brown, football player and coach Sylvester Croom, Paralympian Doug Kennedy, baseball player Q.V. Lowe, football player and coach Woody McCorvey and baseball player Jorge Posada. Paul Finebaum was honored as the 2020
“I know they are planning to do a little something next year,” Robertson said. “I think we’ll have a reception.”
Building a Career With Passion
The Colonnade Group
By Rubin E. Grant
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Robbie Robertson
Mel Allen Media Award recipient; Don Hawkins as the 2020 Frank “Pig” House Award recipient; and Brodie Croyle as the inaugural Starr-Sullivan Achievement Award recipient. “While we are very disappointed that we are not able to honor the Class of 2020 at a banquet, we are very thankful technology allowed us to still induct these sports heroes in a way that is safe for everyone,” Myers said in a statement about the virtual induction ceremony. Robertson expects the ASHOF to bring the 2020 induction class together in person in 2021.
A native of Birmingham, Robertson is a graduate of Samford. After serving in the U.S. Army, he began his career in business and later founded the Colonnade Group. Robertson’s innovative ideas, passion for relationships and ability to build effective management and production teams have led to the Colonnade Group’s reputation as the preeminent provider of custom event management and hospitality solutions in intercollegiate and professional athletics. Robertson’s love of Birmingham and giving back to his community is reflected through his service. He is president of the Crippled Children’s Foundation Board of Directors and on the boards of the Wedgewood Links to Life Charities, Grandview Medical Center, Children’s Harbor at Lake Martin and the Monday Morning Quarterback Club, where he is a past captain and recipient of the Hall Thompson Distinguished Member Award.
Just a Bit of Comfort During Hard Times
Lingerie Shoppe Delivers Comfort Bags to Nurses at UAB Hospital
Over the course of the pandemic, Brenda Meadows, owner of the Lingerie Shoppe in Mountain Brook Village, and her staff have been packing bags of intimates to provide local health care workers with a bit of comfort. Through The Comfort Project, the store has assembled and donated more than 210 gift bags to health care workers at UAB Hospital who have worked in the COVID-19 unit. Inspiration for the project came from Meadows’ membership in Curve, a bi-annual swimsuit and intimates market held in New York City. As the coronavirus outbreak caused shops throughout the nation to close, Curve began hosting online webinars to support retailers such as Meadows. “It became an arena for a lot of information and also a lot of sharing with shops all over the country and in Canada,” she said. It was during one of these webinars that she heard from Larisa Olson, who owns the lingerie shop Chantilly Lace in Illinois. Olson spoke about The Comfort Project, a project she created
that provides bags filled with intimates to local health care workers.
Making the Most of a Bad Situation
Meadows was looking toward the future Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce Market Day, an annual sale in Mountain Brook Village that typically draws a crowd. She knew she would have lower numbers at this year’s event, yet she had a backroom filled with items to be marked down. “I realized I could take some of that merchandise I would put on sale under normal circumstances and put it into this project,” Meadows said. She began working on her own iteration of The Comfort Project in April, reaching out to some of her vendors to see if they would be willing to contribute in some way. “I approached it with the understanding that what I invested in it I would not recoup,” she said. Meadows said her staff members were thrilled with the idea and helped launch a social media campaign to reach out to the community for assistance. A $50 donation from a commu-
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
By Emily Williams
Through The Comfort Project, Brenda Meadows and her team at The Lingerie Shoppe have assembled and donated more than 210 gift bags to health care workers at UAB Hospital who have worked in the COVID-19 unit.
nity member would sponsor a bag, helping cover a small portion of its cost. While working on the project in June, Meadows also was spending time in the hospital with her late husband,
Roger. While hospitalized at UAB, he was treated on two floors whose nurses would become the beneficiaries of The Comfort Project donations. “I got to talking with many of the nurses and they informed me that they
One of Robertson’s favorite endeavors was coaching basketball in the Birmingham Summer League in the 1980s. He formed several lasting friendships. So, when the Houston Rockets came to Birmingham in October 2018 to play the Memphis Grizzlies in an NBA exhibition game, Robertson reached out to some of the former summer league players. “I invited some of the guys who had played in the summer league and they came from everywhere, such as Derrick McKey and Robert Horry,” Robertson said. “I couldn’t believe it. It turned into a love fest. Wimp (Sanderson) came and said it was the greatest time he had ever had and Sonny (Smith) said the same thing.” In 2010, Robertson was inducted into the University of Alabama School of Human Environmental Sciences Hospitality Management Hall of Fame. He is married to Lori Robertson, who works alongside him at Colonnade Group, and they have four children. “I’m glad the good Lord gave me a business to help other people,” Robertson said. “I’m very appreciative of the honor and humbled because I’m the same guy who started this company that’s now in its 30th year. “I coached some in the early grades at Mountain Brook and have been active with the Quarterback Club Foundation. It’s just me doing what I do.” had worked with COVID-19 patients,” Meadows said. Nurses shared stories of their hardships and heartbreaks while caring for coronavirus patients. Listening to their stories brought a new meaning to the project. In early July, Meadows and her team delivered 215 bags – for both male and female nurses – to UAB. Each comfort bag was packed with up to $150 worth of items, some even higher. Men’s bags included Saxx underwear or silk boxers, a pair of socks donated by the Fort Payne-based company Zkano, and both sleep pants and a sleep shirt. Women’s bags include a nightgown or pajama set, silk panties that Meadows notes are incredibly soft as well as a gift certificate for 20% off a bra with a fitting. “Hopefully, this can provide them a little bit of comfort at the end of their shifts,” Meadows said. “This was a project to help shops survive, as well as doing something for the healthcare workers that would be meaningful to them.” While the bags have been delivered, Meadows added that less than half of them were sponsored by a community donation. Those who wish to contribute to the project still have the opportunity. For more information, visit The Lingerie Shoppe of Mountain Brook Village Facebook page.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 11
NEWS
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
1962, long after Emmet O’Neal’s death in 1922, by his son and his wife. A library building was donated to Mountain Brook by Elizabeth and Kirkman O’Neal, whose children’s and grandchildren’s continued support has been instrumental to the facility’s success. “The library would not be what it is today without the commitment of the O’Neal family,” the resolution taken up by the council recently. It states that the board opted to drop Emmet from the library’s name because of his role in “perpetuating segregation in our state.” But the O’Neal name continues on the build-
ing as a means to honor the family’s support of the library throughout its more than 50-year history, it states.
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Other OTM libraries remain limited to curbside service only.
O’Neal Open with Limited Hours
The library is now within its first stage of reopening, offering limited services to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors must limit their visit to one hour, maintain a six-foot distance from others and wear face coverings. In addition, contactless curbside pick-up of held material will continue to be available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on
Come see all the new items
O’Neal Library, located in Mountain Brook, was established in 1962.
Now Open
Library Get’s New Name, Reopens with Limited Hours By Emily Williams On July 13, the Mountain Brook City Council accepted a resolution from the city’s library board and took “Emmet” out of the library’s name, leaving it named O’Neal Library to honor later members of the family who were instrumental in establishing the city’s library system. The issue surrounding the library’s former name originally was raised by AL. com’s Roy S. Johnson in an opinion article published July 1. The piece provided instances in which former Alabama Gov. Emmet O’Neal displayed a dedication to white supremacist ideals. The board’s resolution to change the library’s name states, “Recent events in our state and country have turned our attention to opportunities for change and improvement and have challenged us to reconsider some long-held symbols.”
Who Was Emmet O’Neal?
In a brief history of O’Neal published by R. B. Rosenburg in the Encyclopedia of Alabama, Rosenburg wrote, “On race, he reflected the ethos of the times. He was fairer than
many of his contemporaries when dealing with racial tensions, but he was strictly a white supremacist in every other area.” O’Neal was born Sept. 23, 1853, in Florence. He attended what is now the University of North Alabama and the University of Mississippi before graduating from the University of Alabama and moving on to practice law with his father, Confederate Army veteran and former Alabama Gov. Edward O’Neal. Emmet O’Neal served the state legislatively in a variety of ways before also being elected governor. Most notably, he was an at-large presidential elector from the state, a U.S. district attorney and president of the Alabama State Bar Association, according to Rosenburg. Among O’Neal’s successes as governor was the creation of the Alabama Highway Commission, the passage of laws to protect mine workers and the adoption of education reform measures. His educational successes included inaugurating a rural school library system. O’Neal Library was established in
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LIFE
12 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
A
Together, Apart
By Emily Williams
Before the pandemic, Whitsett describes Founders Place programming as a combination of things: continuing adult education, Sunday school and a cocktail party. “It’s very light, there is banter and, again, this is not a population that is spending a lot of time in playfulness,” Whitest said. “It’s a reimagining of how one can be and for a short time exist in a space that is free. You aren’t
In the Fray
Always Best Care Creates Program to Care for COVID Clients By Emily Williams According to the Centers for Disease Control, the higher your age, the higher your risk is to develop more severe symptoms if you contract COVID-19. In addition, those over the age of 65 account for eight out of 10 COVID19-related deaths reported in the United States. Assisted living facilities and other care services for the elderly, the most vulnerable population, have put lockdowns in place and limited visitation as well as implementing other safety measures. Meanwhile, Always Best Care of Birmingham saw a growing need for professional care services not only for the seniors they serve, but those COVID patients as well. The senior care organization consists of a staff of
Local Community Respite Programs Find Ways to Be Social While Remaining Socially Distant
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
s reopening plans begin for lowerrisk operations, organizations that cater to senior citizens are continuing to keep their distance. Community respite programs that cater to adults with mild to moderate dementia have had to commit to the new normal, as their organizations may be the very last to reopen. Encore, a ministry at Canterbury United Methodist Church, and Founders Place, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, are among a number of respite programs throughout Greater Birmingham who are having to adapt to serve their at-risk population of participants who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Encore Program Director Patti Williams, RN, MSN, and Founders Place Executive Director Susanna Whitsett expect to be the last aspect of daily life that returns following the pandemic. “We’ll be the last to get back,” Williams said. “They are not able to comply and it’s no fun being policed. You can’t police these people all day telling them to keep their masks on.” Once COVID-19 hit, the social needs of participants grew with the added isolation. Thus, the task for Williams, Whitsett and their respective teams of volunteers has been to figure out how to be social while remaining apart.
Founders Place
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
In June, the Encore crew started a monthly drivethru social event – a “party in the parking lot.”
worried about whatever that condition means for you. That is off the table for a while.” Immediately after lockdowns began in March, Founders Place began organizing a lineup of volunteer phone buddies and pen pals for program participants. Over the months, the first iteration has grown into Founders Place at Home. “Just like everybody else, we are really devastated that we aren’t meeting in person,” Whitsett said.
caregivers who provide non-medical personal and social care to persons who live at home or need a bit of extra help at their assisted living facility. Care specifically designed for COVID-19 patients who are not sick enough for hospitalization but whose symptoms were severe enough to need additional care wasn’t something President Jennifer Mancuso planned to offer until one of their own contracted the virus. “I normally Jennifer Mancuso wouldn’t have done this, but we had a family member (of a client) test positive some months ago and they were very sick,” Mancuso said. “They needed some help in the home, so we prepared very quickly to serve the family member.” Mancuso initially reached out to other agencies in the city to see if they would be willing to help care for coronavirus patients and was met with
resistance. Though they supported Always Best Care and were willing to provide whatever aid they could, they did not wish to take on the task. “I couldn’t find anyone else who wanted to do this, so we stepped into the fray,” Mancuso said. A customized COVID training program was put into place for caregivers who were willing to participate in coronavirus care, aided by one of ABC’s directors who is a registered nurse. Grateful is the word Mancuso uses to describe how she feels about her employees who wished to take on the challenge. Caregivers don “all of the protective gear,” including gloves, shields, n95 masks and surgical gowns, Mancuso said. “People look like astronauts when they are going out the door.” Initially, when Personal Protective Equipment was scarce in the United States, Mancuso said she was calling on colleagues and friends in bigger cities where agency owners had anticipated an outbreak of COVID and had stocked PPE in preparation. Always Best Care has always supplied caregivers with gloves but began
The program is tiered, broken into levels of contact. Some participants receive only mail, she said, as a phone call might throw them off mentally, others receive multiple calls throughout the week. Founders Place volunteers also provide Connection packets, which include things such as prayers, poems, arts and crafts, puzzles, jokes, trivia, homemade cakes and cookies and more. “You don’t immediately or typically consider people in their 70s or 80s taking to Zoom,” Whitsett said. “As our Bishop Key Sloan said, ‘It turns out you can teach an old dog new tricks if he really needs to learn.’ I count myself in that, as do many of the volunteers.” Participants have been able to log in to Zoom programming with help from their caregivers to stay connected to their fellow classmates and volunteers. Whitsett noted one participant in their program who has been on lockdown in his assisted living facility, with his wife on lockdown at the same facility but in memory care. He has a paid companion who has been given clearance to enter the facility five days a week for three hours, and she has been helping him log onto Founders Place Zoom calls. “Well, this has become the social highlight of his week; those are the exact words from his son,” she said. “The caregiver said every day she comes in he asks, ‘Is this Founders Place day?’” The same participant also had his birthday while under lockdown, inspiring Founders Place volunteers to develop an idea for birthday “window waves.” Whitsett noted that not all assisted living facilities allow it, but his did let volunteers come by a window and hold up signs for his birthday. “It was really so meaningful,” she said. “These interactions that we took for granted have taken on even greater weight and meaning See TOGETHER, page 13
giving them masks as well in March. Now masks and gloves are free for both caregivers and clients. “It’s a big expense, but we feel like it’s something we have to do,” Mancuso said. “This is the new normal, so we’ve got to get used to those masks.” At first, Always Best stuck to serving family members, but as more members of the community began to need help, the program was expanded. “What we found was that, while in most cases family members are very willing to help their loved ones with things like this, in a situation where someone is positive for COVID, all of a sudden that puts a whole new spin on things,” Mancuso said. She has seen family members feel torn between taking care of their loved one with COVID or putting their family at risk of contracting the virus. As far as she knows, Mancuso said, all of Always Best Care’s coronavirus patients have recovered, some able to re-enter the assisted living facilities they had to leave when they tested positive. In addition, no ABC caregivers have contracted the virus while working with COVID-positive
patients, though each caregiver quarantines after they have cared for someone with the virus. “It’s not like going into a battlefield where you might be shot,” she said. “As long as you are wearing the protective gear and you do all of the things that we are told to do these days – wash your hands frequently, keep socially distant even when you’re in the home with someone that has it,” and such. At the beginning of the pandemic, in March, personal protective equipment was harder to get a hold of, but now it is more readily available. Mancuso admits that the beginning phases of creating a COVID-19 care program were initially frightening, but ABC has found their groove. “It is a scary time, but it does seem like things are getting a little more stable. People are more cognizant of the fact that we’ve got to wear masks and we’ve got to wash our hands … you know, it’s not much more complicated than that,” she said. For more information, visit alwaysbestcare.com/al/birmingham or call 1-800-501-6209.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
TOGETHER From page 12
and certainly for the population we are serving who are typically isolated even without a pandemic. “ Whitsett said Founders Place staff and volunteers are continuing to broaden their programming, adding new Zoom offerings. Both Founders Place and Encore also are seeking opportunities to bring a bit more music into their participants’ lives. It’s a favorite offering at both facilities. “We sang every single day,” Williams said. “We would always finish the day with choir, and they absolutely loved it.” Williams is looking to possibly coordinate a way to host an outdoor concert for her crew, providing both a safe, social opportunity as well as a way to enjoy music together. Whitsett said the Founders Place team is working with local musicians and a storyteller to create a new Zoom offering that alternates music and stories for an hour, to be called Wonderful Wednesdays. “Music is just a really impactful thing for folks with memory loss, and without,” Whitsett said.
Encore
At Canterbury, Williams works with a team of more than 170 volunteers. “Not all of them are active. Most of them are retired and many of them are over 80, which places them
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 13
LIFE in the high-risk category as well.” Volunteers are broken into teams. Each team is paired with one of the program participants and creates a plan that caters specifically to that person’s needs and abilities. That plan now is dependent on how well they have taken to technology. “We have 90-year-olds that are FaceTiming and Zooming,” Williams said. There are also yard visits, where volunteers meet the participant with a mask on and sit outside at a socially acceptable distance. Any little bit of contact carries its own weight and is important to combat the isolation that not only dementia creates, but the pandemic as well. “It’s worth everything,” Williams said. “Any kind of socialization you can give them is so helpful, and the family appreciates it so much.” Caregiver support groups continue to meet every Thursday via Zoom at 10 a.m. The support group is open to anyone in need of the services, but the program participant list is closed for now. In fact, the group is not charging for their services for the time being. Williams’ now sends out comprehensive weekly emails, full of activities that would normally take place in the classroom. She inserts links that can be easily navigated, allowing participants to simply click on a link and begin an activity, such as watching a video or completing a game of trivia. In addition, Williams has been
making videos of herself doing everyday tasks. “I made a video recently while I was planting a garden,” she said. “We’re just trying to keep ourselves in contact.” In June, the Encore crew started a monthly drive-thru social event – a “party in the parking lot.” Volunteers are posted throughout the parking lot on the Canterbury campus with signs featuring each friend’s name. The July event featured a drivethru line of different quick activities. “They get something at every station,” Williams said. “The participants don’t have to touch anything, and everybody is going to be gloved up, masked up.” Activities included trivia games, arts and crafts, a photo booth and a fishing game with a bag of Goldfish crackers as the prize. Williams noted that Goldfish are something that the program would have available for participants every single day, a trademark of sorts. A group art project also was launched, with Williams providing each participant with a heart to decorate. Participants will take the heart back when they go to the August drive-thru event, and Williams has plans to create an art installation with them. “I’m going to take their heart, cut them in half and attach it with another half of a heart,” she said. “This is a crazy time. We’re all making our own way, but we’re all in this together and we’re still connected.”
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T
PATRIOT PARK POOL IN WEST HOMEWOOD
he dog days of summer kicked off July 3, and as temperatures rose, community members flocked to local parks to enjoy the great outdoors and cool off at pools and splash pads. Since 1985, July has been identified as National Parks and Recreation Month. According to the National Recreation and Parks Association, the annual recognition cel-
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ebrates parks and recreation departments across the country for “providing essential services and making their communities better places to live, work and play.” This year’s theme was “We Are Parks and Recreation,” It was intended to showcase the diversity of parks and recreation professionals and frontline staff who are working to coordinate park reopening and adjust for
social distancing and sanitary measures to combat the spread of COVID-19. OTMJ photographer Jordan Wald captured images of community members at play, beating the heat at the Explore Playground and Splash Pad at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, the splash pad at Vestavia Hills’ Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex and the Patriot Park pool in West Homewood. ❖
WE ARE PARKS AND REC July Marks 35th Annual National Parks and Recreation Month
Keeping cool at the VESTAVIA HILLS’ SICARD HOLLOW ATHLETIC COMPLEX.
EXPLORE PLAYGROUND AND SPLASH PAD AT THE HOOVER METROPOLITAN COMPLEX, FROM LEFT: Ezra, Lydia and Ethan Manning.
JOURNAL PHOTOS BY JORDAN WALD
PATRIOT PARK POOL IN WEST HOMEWOOD: Beau and Jenny Beasley.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 15
SOCIAL
From Funky to Funkiest
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Socially Distant Food Truck Festival Raises Funds for AIDS Alabama AIDS Alabama hosted its Funkiest Funky Food Truck Festival to date on July 18, with organizers and guests donning masks while raising funds for the organization’s mission. To maintain social distancing, food trucks were limited and arrived in two separate shifts throughout the afternoon at Cahaba Brewing Company. Trucks in attendance included Hyderabad Dum Zone, Little London Kitchen, Urban Pops, Alloy Thai Restaurant and Nola Ice. Funds raised support AIDS Alabama’s services, which offer statewide efforts to prevent the spread of HIV and help people with HIV/AIDS live healthy, independent lives. ❖
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Aidian, Liam, Penelope, Ray and Roman Graves.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
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SOCIAL
Enrolled students will have virtual access to their classes each week.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Farmer’s Market Fun
The show continues to go on in the West Homewood community, with the West Homewood Farmer’s Market adapting to social distancing measures. The event, which is held each Tuesday eve-
ning near Patriot Park, features vendors selling produce, baked goods, arts and crafts and food trucks. At the July 14 market, live entertainment was provided by Free Wood Trio. ❖
CELEBRATING
Adeline and Mikala Whatley.
Rachel Pilkington and Hinton Bishop.
Francesca Liso with Roo and Maddy Selescky.
Juliana and Josh May.
Mo, Jessica and Andrew Harbin with Noah Whitten.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Given-Heath
Mr. Samuel Perry Given Jr. of
Walters-Maclellan
Caroline Blair Walters and Lee Taylor Maclellan of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, formerly of Vestavia Hills, announce their engagement. The bride-elect is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Legrand Walters
Battles-Girdler
Mr. and Mrs. David Carlton Battles of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Cornelia Frances “Fran” Battles, to John Pullen Girdler, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rheutan Girdler Jr. of Franklin, Tennessee. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Connie Duke Jones of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the late Mr. Wendell Millard Jones, as well as the late Mr. and Mrs. Olen Morris Battles of Gardendale. Miss Battles is a graduate of Wofford College, Spartanburg, South Carolina, where she received a bachelor’s degree in English. She
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 17
WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS Mountain Brook announces the engagement of his daughter, Mallie Given, to Tyler Heath, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Stanley Heath of Tampa, Florida. Miss Given is the daughter of the late Mrs. Roxanne Raley Given, originally of Montgomery. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Perry Given of Mountain Brook and the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Raley of Montgomery. Miss Given is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and Auburn University, where she was on the Dean’s List for five semesters and was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta social sorority. She served as
vice president of publicity for The Big Event organization. She is a Debutante Club Member and was presented at the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball, Ball of Roses, Debutante Club Ball and the Redstone Ball. Miss Given is employed with Canterbury United Methodist Church. The prospective groom is the grandson of Ms. Beth Andersen, Ms. Lynn Levin Heath and Mr. Terrill Heath, all of Tampa. Mr. Heath is a graduate of Plant High School and Auburn University. He is employed with Brasfield and Gorrie. The wedding will be Sept. 26 at Camp Greystone in Tuxedo, North Carolina.
of Hartsville, South Carolina. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. Leon Lynwood Dyson Sr. and the late Mrs. Majorie Dyson Covington Blue of Rockingham, North Carolina, and the late Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Walters of Hartsville. Miss Walters is a 2014 graduate of the College of Charleston, where she received a bachelor’s degree in history and political science. She was a member and president of the Political Science Club and a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Miss Walters is a graduate of Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, where she received her juris doctor degree. She is currently studying for the Tennessee Bar Exam. The prospective groom is the son of Mr. Robert H. “Scott” and Mrs. Lisa Catalina Maclellan of Lookout Mountain. He is the grandson of Mrs. Billie H. Pigford and the late
Dr. Malcolm Pigford of Vestavia Hills, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Llewellyn Maclellan of Lookout Mountain. Mr. Maclellan is a 2010 graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He was inducted into Jasons, the oldest honor society that selects outstanding student leaders on the basis of character, scholarship and service to the university community. He was a member of Golden Key International Honor Society and Delta Tau Delta social fraternity. Mr. Maclellan is a cum laude graduate of Richmont Graduate University with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and receiving certificates in chemical addiction and trauma. The wedding will be Aug. 22 at the Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church with a reception following at The Lookout Mountain Golf Club.
was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta social sorority and several honor societies. She received a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of South Alabama, where she was selected as the Most Outstanding Masters Student. She served as a graduate assistant and was a member of Phi Kappa Phi and the Alpha Eta Honor Society. Miss Battles is a speech-language pathologist at Gower Elementary with the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. Richard “Dick” Rheutan Girdler and the late Mrs. Patricia “Pat” Michaels Girdler of Big Canoe, Georgia, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas “Tom” Alvin Pullen of Dalton, Georgia. Mr. Girdler is a graduate of the University of Alabama, where he received a bachelor’s degree in commerce and business administration with a major in accounting and a minor in French. He received a post baccalaureate teacher certification in secondary math at Trevecca Nazarene University. Mr. Girdler was a member of Al’s Pals Mentoring Program, Baptist Campus Ministries Leadership Team and several honor societies. He was
selected as Newcomer of the Year (teacher) at Centennial High School. Mr. Girdler is a senior learning consultant with Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The wedding will be Oct. 3.
Dancewear 1629 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood 871-STEP (7837)
Hammonds-Love
Ms. Maria Cruz and Mr. Elton Hammonds of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Hammonds, to William Love, son of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy and Helen Love of Marietta, Georgia. The bride-elect is a graduate of
Parrish-Walker
Mr. and Mrs. W. Harold “Hal” Parrish of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Caroline Elizabeth, to John David Walker, son of Mr. and Mrs. James David Walker of Vestavia Hills. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Parrish Sr. of Hoover and the late Mr.
Vestavia Hills High School and a 2011 cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama, where she received a bachelor’s degree in commerce and business administration and a master’s degree in accounting in 2013. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and a 2010 Poinsettia Debutante. Miss Hammonds is a CPA and an audit manager at Deloitte in Atlanta. The prospective groom is a graduate of Alan C. Pope High School, where he earned the National Merit Scholarship and Zell Miller Scholarship to attend the Honors College at the University of Georgia. He is a 2013 magna cum laude graduate of the University of Georgia, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in accounting and international business and a master’s degree in accounting in 2014. Mr. Love is a CPA and audit manager at Deloitte in Atlanta. The wedding will be Oct. 17. and Mrs. Joseph Albert Redding III of Montgomery. Miss Parrish is a magna cum laude graduate of Auburn University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing and was vice president of Chi Omega sorority. She was a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, Mortar Board and Alpha Lambda Delta honor societies. Miss Parrish is employed with UAB, where she is attending the doctor of nurse practitioners program. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. William Max Adams of Vestavia Hills, Mr. Denver David Walker of Auburn and Mrs. Beverly Bullington Ford of Clanton. Mr. Walker is a magna cum laude graduate of Auburn University, where he received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting. He was a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and Beta Alpha Psi Business Honorary. He is employed with Ernst & Young in Birmingham. The wedding will be Oct. 24.
HOME
18 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
HOME IMPROVEMENT
GOOD MOVE Homewood Couple Donates House to Build UP
By Rubin E. Grant
Matt and Angela Leigh and their daughters, Emery and Frances, at their new home, built on the same site where their old home, right, used to be. The house was moved to Titusville across from Booker T. Washington K-8 School in Birmingham.
Who’s the BOSS
Cahaba Heights Residents Take Off on Their Own With Building and Remodeling Company By Emily Williams In November, Cahaba Heights residents Jessie and Billy Barnhill embarked on a new way of life with their two children. The couple started Barnhill Homes, a family-owned and -operated building and remodeling company. Though becoming their own bosses was a new experience, the work is
something both are familiar with, each growing up with parents who operated construction-related businesses. “Growing up, my father owned a door and window company – a millwork company – where they supply doors and windows and trim to new construction houses,” he said. Billy was 12 when his dad started his company, and he quickly began
Build UP accepts donated houses and teaches children – as young as the eighth grade in its six-year program – about the construction industry, allowing them to learn a range of construction skills through rebuilding donated homes and earn academic credit. Students also earn money through renovating the houses and eventually own the homes they work on and can live in them or rent them. Students graduate two years after a traditional high school program with certifications in a number of construction trades. Build UP began in Ensley, but earlier this year it was selected as part of a $10 million Fannie Mae Innovation Challenge. The award, one of five proposals selected nationwide by the government-sponsored mortgage company, will allow Build UP to start enrolling students in the Titusville and Graymont areas of Birmingham. “Students are receiving both mentorship and guidance while also developing skills along the way,” Martin said. “They also get paid, so they are learning financial literacy and budgeting at an earlier age. It exposes them to all kinds of responsibilities.” The donated homes Build UP receives are shipped to Titusville and students then rehab the homes. Build UP accepted its first house See BUILDUP, page 19
Though becoming their own bosses was a new experience for Jessie and Billy Barnhill, the work is something both are familiar with, each growing up with parents who operated construction-related businesses.
Photo courtesy Barnhill family
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
W
hen Matt and Angela Leigh got married in 2012, they bought a three-bedroom house in the Edgewood community of Homewood across the street from Gianmarco’s Restaurant. Matt Leigh described the house as perfect, since they didn’t have any children. But after the birth of their daughters, Emery and Frances, now ages 5 and 3, the house quickly became too small. “We needed more space,” Matt Leigh said. But rather than moving elsewhere or demolishing their house to build a more spacious one, the Leighs decided to donate the house itself and build a new house on their lot. “We liked the house a lot and didn’t want to just tear it down,” Matt Leigh said. “We saw someone moving a house down the street from us and I had never seen a house loaded and moved before.” Leigh quickly found out about Build UP, also known as Build Urban Prosperity, a non-profit workforce training program that was founded in 2018 by Mark Martin, who is chief executive officer, has had a lengthy career in education and lives in Edgewood.
Build UP
working for his father when he could – through his time at Chelsea High School and all the way up until he began working for Signature Homes in 2015. Jessie, meanwhile, grew up in Washington, D.C., where her parents worked in the commercial sheetrock industry. “My parents did framing and sheetrock for grocery stores, department stores, apartment complexes and so on,” she said. While attending college at the University of Alabama, the couple met through mutual friends. After college, Billy spent 7 years in the Alabama Army National Guard, See BARNHILL, page 20
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HOME
BUILD UP From page 18
donation in the summer of 2019 and has had several more donated from Over the Mountain, including more than 10 from Homewood, several from Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills, and one from Hoover. “They are perfectly good homes that shouldn’t land in a landfill,” Martin said. “It’s a deal that’s working out for everyone and it’s good for the community. And it makes good economic sense since there are tax savings and they don’t have to have the expense of tearing the house down.”
Moving Time
The Leighs didn’t want to demolish their house, so donating it to Build UP made perfect sense. “It was our first house and the only house our girls had known, so I got in touch with Mark and asked him about their donation program, and we took it from there,” Matt Leigh said. Build UP teams with M.T. Kirkpatrick Housemovers to relocate the donated houses. Matt Leigh wanted to be there when they arrived to move their house on Feb. 2, but he didn’t get the chance. On the day the house was to be moved, his youngest daughter fell and cut her ear and had to go the emergency room for stitches. “We were there until 10 or 11 that
“They are perfectly good homes that shouldn’t land in a landfill. It’s a deal that’s working out for everyone and it’s good for the community. And it makes good economic sense since there are tax savings and they don’t have to have the expense of tearing the house down.” Mark Martin, CEO Build UP
night,” Matt Leigh recalled. “When we were returning home, we saw our house being driven down Green Springs Highway. I never thought I’d ever see something like that, but it
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 19
all came together.” The house was transported to Titusville across from Booker T. Washington K-8 School in Birmingham. The Leighs have been living in an apartment on Broadway Street in Homewood while their new fourbedroom house is being built. He commutes to Tuscaloosa to work as director of operations for an apparel company, Southern Shirt, while Angela Leigh works as a treatment coordinator at Birmingham Orthodontics. Both their old home and new home are almost ready for occupancy. “What I like is that our kids can go by our old house and see it, but also that somebody gets to own it and use it for business purposes,” Matt Leigh said. “It’s a neat, novel idea.” For more information, visit BuildUP.work.
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Linda Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 July This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the August 6, 2020 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
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Onlymake 4 lots remain in information the exclusive community Viridian, one mile off Highway 31 on Please sure all is correct,ofincluding Tyler Road,address convenient to phone Birmingham’s major Interstates, shopping and recreation. and number! Bring your builder or let Wedgworth Construction design and build your dream home. Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
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Mike Wedgworth (205) 365-4344
20 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
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From page 18
serving as a 1st lieutenant before earning his Home Builders License in 2014 and joining Signature Homes. Jessie attended and graduated from Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and began practicing in personal injury and divorce.
“I was ready to leave the law shortly after getting started,” she said. “We knew at some point we wanted to carve out a career for ourselves that involved more family time, more autonomy, and Billy has had it on his bucket list for his whole life to become an independent homebuilder and contractor.” In 2018, she left her job and became a Realtor while Billy contin-
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ued to learn as he worked with Signature, fostering relationships with his coworkers and vendors. “Even when I was doing doors and windows, the entire time I just wanted to own my own business eventually and start working on new houses and what I am doing now,” Billy said. In November 2018, he left Signature on good terms with the full support of management and staff, and the couple created Barnhill Homes.
Success Despite COVID
About three months into their new business, the COVID-19 pandemic set in; but while many things slowed down, their work has increased both in building and in real estate. “It’s kind of a two-prong situation,” Jessie said. “Interest rates are at record lows. So, you’ve seen the housing market exploding because of that.” Billy noted that homeowners are jumping on the opportunity to refinance their homes due to the low interest rates and are then putting the money they gain back into their homes. In addition, home improvements in relation to purchasing and selling homes have remained steady. In that respect, Jessie said, “People are hiring Barnhill Homes in order to get their house ready for sale.” The owners are completing projects that they have been putting off for a while, so that they can get the highest return on their investment.
Remodeling Is Popular
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The Barnhills have seen a more noticeable increase in homeowners who are remodeling for themselves. People are stuck in their homes, perhaps with their children, and they are feeling a need for more room, Jessie said. “I think we have had four offices built in the past couple of months – people who wanted to finish off attic and basement space so they have a
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
quiet place to work during a pandemic,” Jessie said. Some of those rooms are also being used as playrooms so kids can spread out and play without getting in the way of their parents’ working in the kitchen or living areas. “Everybody is realizing what it is that their house is missing, and the funds are accessible because of those low interest rates,” Jessie said. For example, the Barnhills completed a full kitchen remodel on a home in Cahaba Heights that was built in the early 2000s. The owners
‘I was ready to leave the law shortly after getting started. We knew at some point we wanted to carve out a career for ourselves that involved more family time, more autonomy, and Billy has had it on his bucket list for his whole life to become an independent homebuilder and contractor.’ JESSIE BARNHILL
just wanted a more functional and updated kitchen. Reconfiguring the kitchen island in the center of the kitchen was the biggest task, according to Billy. Before the renovation, there was a two-tier island in the center of the kitchen, which Billy said he used to see a lot of but has now become quite
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 21
HOME dated. One side of the island offered lower counterspace and a sink for the kitchen, and the other side was raised up to accommodate bar-stool seating. Billy and his crew brought the island down to one level and then put in a large farmhouse sink, outfitted with a gooseneck faucet. “Then we wrapped shiplap all around the sides of that island,” he said. A breath of new life arrived in the kitchen as Billy and his crew installed a new backsplash, new countertops, new lighting and other details.
Sharing the Work
While the work is continuing to rev up and the pandemic rages on, the Barnhills have noticed that being their own bosses and working together has made family time and organizing child care easier than ever before. “We can just hand off the kids whenever either of us have appointments,” Jessie said. The kids are getting used to helping out both of their parents, tagging along for some of Jessie’s home showings and helping Billy out on the weekends. “Usually on Saturdays, we take the dump trailer to the dump and my 4-year-old son absolutely loves that,” Billy said. “And our 7-year old daughter is convinced that she is a lucky charm for sellers or buyers, because any time she tags along for an appointment, they end up going under contract,” Jessie added. Pandemic or no, the Barnhills count themselves fortunate to be doing what they love. “We just wanted a family business and to use all of the relationships that we had built up until that point and put them all to use to form our dream career,” she said.
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22 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
The Glean Machine Society of St. Andrew Connects Volunteers, Farms and Feeding Agencies
G
By Donna Cornelius
Volunteers are needed and greatly appreciated. Sometimes groups of people, maybe from a religious or civic organization, come and work together, but individuals are welcome, too.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
leaning” isn’t a word you hear often nowadays unless you’re listening to a church sermon about the Book of Ruth. In Old Testament times, hungry folks were allowed to glean – to go into farmers’ fields after harvests to gather up leftover crops. The Society of St. Andrew, a national nonprofit hunger relief organization, is based on this tradition. Its Gleaning Network sends volunteers to farms and farmers markets to collect fruits and vegetables that might otherwise go unused but that are still nutritious and tasty. The food is then given to feeding agencies that can distribute it to those who need it. SoSA started the Gleaning Network in 1988. Its Alabama office opened in January 2005. Adrienne Standridge, Alabama Gleaning’s program director, said she “connects the dots” between volunteers, farmers and feeding agencies. She went to work for the program about a year and half ago. “I found out about it through my father, who was a pastor,” Standridge said. “This was a God thing. I’d always served in my church, but I felt God wanted me to do something full time.” While there’s always a need for free, fresh produce, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand. According to statistics in SoSA’s quarterly report, U.S. hunger doubled in March and April, and U.S. childhood hunger quadrupled in those two months. The Gleaning Network is doing its part to help. In March and April alone, the Society of St. Andrew and its partners rescued and gave away more than three million pounds of food across the nation. “As of now, we’ve been able to rescue and distribute about 718,000 pounds of food this year in Alabama alone,” Standridge said. “The need is great.” Jesse Hoyer, regional director for Alabama Gleaning, said social-distancing restrictions have changed the volunteer program a bit. “If we go to a farm, the number of volunteers we can have depends on the size of the field,” Hoyer said. “If there are three rows of okra, we couldn’t have more than 10 people. But we can have more if it’s a tomato field that’s half an acre.” After volunteers have picked or collected the produce, agencies can pick it up and distribute it. “We work with a lot of ‘mom and pop’ agencies,” Standridge said. “They load up the produce and go into their communities. They know what the needs are – maybe it’s low-income people, senior citizens, those who have lost their jobs, church pantries.” Crops have to be distributed the same day they’re picked. “Farmers call at the end of the growing cycle, so time is of the essence,” Standridge said. “We have to operate on the fly lots of times.” Hoyer said the Alabama Gleaning Network encompasses the entire state. “We are definitely more active from Birmingham north, and we also have a solid presence in the Montgomery area,” she said.
“Our goal is to reach out to agencies in urban areas that are smaller. We work really hard to reach out to rural areas, too. People there rely largely on processed food, canned food. And many times, the food available for them to buy is overpriced.” She’d like to see Alabama Gleaning benefit
even more people. “Ideally, we’d do a huge reach in the Black Belt,” she said. “That’s been a challenge to connect with agencies there. We recently worked with a Marengo County agency for the first time, and we wondered how we didn’t already know about each other.” Volunteers are needed and greatly appreciated. Sometimes groups of people, maybe from a religious or civic organization, come and work together, but individuals are welcome, too. “I don’t care if it’s one person or 10 – everybody is beneficial, everyone is a blessing,” Standridge said. Almost all ages can volunteer, as long as they’re able to bend and lift several pounds of produce. “I really want to see the younger generation get involved,” Standridge said. She often brings her children, who range in age from 10 to 17, to glean. See GLEAN, page 23
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
FOODIE NEWS Tasty Trails: Hit the Road to Sample Black Belt Food Specialties Choose your own food adventure by hitting trails that will take you to some of the Black Belt’s tastiest places. The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association has come up with a travel plan called Feed Your Adventure — Flavors of the Black Belt Trail. Nine themed trails include stops for good eats, cold drinks and other treats created by Black Belt locals. Each color-coded trail has a shopping checklist plus lists of many of the region’s destinations, eateries and overnight accommodations. Stops are in these counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox. You’ll find obscure little eateries such as Mustang Oil in Greensboro, Ezell Fish Camp in Lavaca, and Coco Mama in Highland Home. You can also find out where to buy Alabamamade products at places such as Shana’s Place Butcher Shop in Shorter, Black Belt Treasures in Camden, the Auburn Popcorn Co. in Auburn, and Mark’s Mart in Northport and Selma. Adventurers are encouraged to participate in a passport competition and monthly photo contests. Using the passport, those who visit all nine trails will be entered for a grand prize weekend getaway at Lakepoint State Park that includes a guided fishing trip and a guided canoe or kayak aquatic eco-tour. “Alabama has had great success spotlighting the culinary items featured in ‘100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die,’” State Tourism Director Lee Sentell said. “Just like the local creations featured in Flavors, many of the ingredients that make up those recipes are grown and crafted in this region which takes great pride in the rich family history of recipes and agriculture skills passed down for generations.” The full Flavors of the Black Belt brochure and individual trail maps with additional information can be found at alabamablackbeltadventures. org/flavors/.
The New Face of Food Festivals: Events Adapt to COVID-19 Restrictions While many popular food-themed festivals were canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, several of Birmingham’s favorite events will still be held — with some adjustments. The 22nd annual St. Elias Lebanese Food and Culture Festival, scheduled for Aug. 7-8, will serve food through drive-through, takeout and delivery only. You can experience the cultural side of the festival through virtual events and bid on items through an online auction. The menu includes dishes such as baked kibbee, spinach pie, green beans called loobia, and sweet treats like pistachio and walnut baklawa. Free delivery will be available in some downtown and Southside areas for orders of $100 or more. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. both days. Only credit and debit cards will be accepted for payment. St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church is at 836 Eighth St. S. in downtown Birmingham. For more
See FOODIE NEWS, page 23
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Pepper Place Provides Platform for Charitable Chefs
FOODIE NEWS From page 22 information, visit stelias.org or follow St. Elias on social media. Taco Fest is another favorite festival that will work in a new way this year. Taco Trail 2020 will spotlight some of Birmingham’s best taco eateries. Restaurants and food trucks will offer specials to those who participate. The trail starts in September and will last all month. While there’s no charge to participate, Bare Hands Inc., which hosts the event, welcomes donations that will benefit the Bare Hands Art
GLEAN From page 22
“They might complain,” she said. “But once they get out there, a connection is often made between younger and older volunteers.” Donations also are welcome. The organization’s website says 95% of its total income goes directly into providing food, and money isn’t wasted duplicating the efforts of existing food banks and agencies. Over the past three years, Alabama has had an average of about 40 farmers who participate in the program. “Some seasons, certain farmers will take a hit – they might have too much rain, or too little – and some will give you large amounts,” Standridge said. “So what the farms can provide fluctuates from year to year.” In Birmingham, farmers markets such as The Market at Pepper Place have been fruitful sources of produce
Chefs Clayton Sherrod (pictured) and Steven McIntyre sold meals-to-go to benefit Lawson State Community College’s culinary arts program.
To allow farmers the opportunity to sell more of their products during the peak of harvest season, The Market at Pepper Place began opennig for crowds July 6. Taking advantage of the opportunity were, from left: Amanda Hayden, Michelle Hayden and Courtney Fischer. Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Demonstrations by some of the Birmingham area’s most high-profile chefs have always drawn a crowd to The Market at Pepper Place on Saturday mornings. These days, some chefs are using the Pepper Place platform to raise money for charitable efforts. In June, pastry chef Kristen Farmer Hall gave the proceeds from a bake sale at the market to Jones Valley Teaching Farm, which is donating all its produce and services to feeding the hungry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chefs Clayton Sherrod and Steven McIntyre sold meals-to-go to benefit Lawson State Community College’s culinary arts program. Leigh Sloss-Corra, the market’s executive director, said that plans for August are still being firmed up. But possible participants include people such as Jay Wilson of Jay’s
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 23
FOOD
Cheesecakes on Aug. 8. He’d like to contribute to Crew for Cakes, a nonprofit organization helping music crews and support staff whose jobs have taken a hit because most live concerts have been canceled. In September, members of Les Dames d’Escoffier International’s
Birmingham chapter will be at the market to raise money for culinary scholarships and grants. For an updated list of chef appearances, visit pepperplacemarket.com. The market is at 2829 Second Ave. S. in downtown Birmingham. —Donna Cornelius
Club at the YWCA of Central Alabama and the group’s annual Dia de los Muertos Festival in November. Check out the Birmingham Taco Fest Facebook page for an interactive map, and visit barehandsinc.org for more information and to make donations. The Cahaba River Fry-Down is going virtual for 2020. Cooks and their teams can enter their favorite fish and side dish recipes and then compete by demonstrating them via video. The videos will be shown on the event’s website, frydown.com, from Sept. 29-Oct. 4. The site also will offer insider Cahaba River fishing tips and
adventure videos. You can register to compete and find more information on the site, too. The event benefits the Cahaba River Society. Anyone can watch the videos for free. Teams can win fry pan prizes from professional judges in several categories, including presentation, best side dish and most creative use of ingredients. The contestant who raises the most donations will win the Champion of the Cahaba award. The deadline to register for the competition ends at midnight Aug. 29. Videos must be submitted by Sept. 8. —Donna Cornelius
for Alabama Gleaning. A new supplier is the Birdsong Farmers Market, which operates in the parking lot at Automatic Seafood and Oysters, at 2824 Fifth Ave. S. All kinds of nutritious fruits and vegetables are gleaned. Large amounts of produce, usually potatoes, are given out through “crop drops,” with the vegetables being taken to a specific location to be bagged up. “The first summer I was here, we got a call about eggplants,” Hoyer said. “We weren’t sure some of our folks would know what to do with them. I went online and found recipes
that people could print off.” While gleaning familiar Southern crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and squash is pretty standard, Standridge said the organization once was offered a pallet full of lemons. But they didn’t go to waste. “One person ended up taking all of them,” she said. To learn more about the Alabama Gleaning Network, visit endhunger. org. The website has information for farmers and food providers, feeding agencies and those interested in volunteering or making donations to the organization.
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SCHOOLS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OTM School Systems Pencil in Plans for Fall, but They Might Have to Use the Eraser
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
By Emily Williams and Caroline Rice
Mountain Brook band director Jason Smith noted that both directors and students are “committed to supporting our Spartan athletes as much as possible.” Above, band members social distancing at a practice session last week.
Start Up the Bands
Band Directors at OTM Schools Face Challenges in Preparing for Football Season By Emily Williams and Caroline Rice The impending school year is commonly portrayed as a rebirth of sorts, filled with promises of a new year, a new routine and perhaps even a new you. At the center of all that opportunity is one of the most spirited American trademarks – football season. The Friday night athletic productions draw the community together after school hours to the tune of drums and brass pounding amid spirited chants and cheers. With about two weeks remaining until the date many schools systems are hoping to restart the 2020-21 school year, the idea of arriving on campus for the first day of school and attending the first football game of the season remains in limbo as administrators continue to grapple with pandemic planning. Regardless, football teams, cheerleading squads and marching bands are preparing for the potential to perform.
Challenges for Band Practice
At Mountain Brook High School, band director Jason Smith and his crew began rehearsals in July, following the announcement by the Alabama High School Athletic Association that football practices could commence. Though there are numerous aspects of band that are separate from sports, band director Jason Smith noted that both directors and students are “committed to supporting our Spartan athletes as much as possible.”
There are still many questions hanging in the air as far as football games and performances are concerned, as the landscape of the pandemic and its effects on gatherings of any kind is constantly evolving. “Of course, we are not sure about travel to away games, social distancing protocols in stadiums – this is
‘We are going to be positive and keep going. My goal is to give these kids some sense of normalcy.’ CHRIS COOPER HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR
important when playing music with wind instruments – and being able to consistently rehearse in the middle of a pandemic,” Smith said. Over the course of the pandemic closures of schools this past spring, band directors had to adapt to online learning. “Virtual band was challenging and rewarding,” Smith said. Via Google Meet, band students and directors were able to see each other virtually, share quarantine stories and continue to work toward some of their bigger goals, such as, celebrating the senior band members by organizing an online ‘banquet.’ “We were even able to feature our Beginning Band, junior high school and high school bands in a video concert,” Smith said. “This required each student to record their individual music, and we were able to mash it
together to make a large video featuring their performances.” In almost any band setting, Smith noted, there is a similarity in that each individual is responsible for practicing, playing and performing their music to the best of their ability. The difference this fall lies in the visual responsibilities that performing as a marching band requires – the choreography. “Students are relying on each other to be in the correct spot on the field at the exact time successfully playing the right notes and rhythms,” Smith said. This year’s performances are being choreographed to accommodate a greater distance between musicians, and the crew is rehearsing their routines in the great outdoors almost exclusively. No matter how much distance there is between students, there is still that aspect of marching that has them moving about the field rather than remaining stationary. With that in mind, Smith said that the band will be using personal protective equipment. This includes items that will help mitigate the spread of respiratory droplets, especially for those playing wind instruments. Despite the measures put into place for rehearsals, there is always a chance that practices and performances will be put on hold once more. “Our discussions about delaying school and sports are still in play,” Smith said. “We would need to evaluate the safety of the decision to continue. We would look to our administration for guidance and move forward from there.
See BANDS, page 26
Though coronavirus responses related to schools are subject to change daily, one thing is certain: many high school students will be learning through an online platform during the fall 2020 semester. Parents have pushed for learning options that offer different levels of online and in-person instruction.
for years, but it is now an option for middle schoolers as well. While Hoover City Schools officials cannot make an announcement this early on what level they are planning to begin. They have pushed back the first day of school from Aug. 6 to Aug. 20. In addition, students from Pre-K through second grade are highly encouraged to wear masks, and students from grades 3 through 12 are required to wear masks.
Hoover
Homewood
Hoover City Schools has proposed three learning options for students and parents to choose, in addition to four contingency plans that are based on worsening health condition scenarios. The in-person learning plan option allows for full-time school on campus when operating in contingency level one or two. However, when raised to contingency level three, students would go to campus only two days a week, either Monday and Thursday or Tuesday and Friday. They would learn remotely for the other three days. If raised to contingency level four, students would learn fully online. The in-person learning plan allows Hoover teachers to use the local Hoover curriculum. The virtual learning plan option allows for a full-time virtual school that takes place at home. Students who choose this option will be communally connected to their zoned schools, but their teachers will instruct them through a digital curriculum. Pre-K through 8th grade students can switch from virtual to in-person learning at the end of the first nine weeks, but high schoolers cannot change until the end of the semester. The final learning option proposed for Hoover students is called a blended plan. This allows students to learn part-time virtually and part-time in person. Students can then continue inperson instruction in areas of particular interest that cannot be supported in the virtual format. Hoover City Schools says that this has been an option for high schoolers
Homewood City Schools is offering two learning options: traditional school and virtual school. Students who choose the traditional school option can switch to virtual at any time, but if the student chooses virtual, the student is committed to it for the semester. Homewood also has four levels of operation, in which they will determine the level of operation according to recommendations from local health departmentsas well as data from community and schools. Some of the categories that the level of operation will determine include extracurricular activities, large group gatherings, entering and exiting the building, and teaching and learning. Homewood city schools will require students to wear masks where social distancing is not possible.
Mountain Brook
On July 30, Mountain Brook City Schools announced an adjusted reopening plan, postponing the start of the 2020-21 school year from Aug. 11 to Aug. 20. In a release, Superintendent Dicky Barlow noted that the postponement will allow more time for the school system to train employees, prepare buildings and finalize reopening logistics. In addition, junior high and high school students who selected the traditional school option over virtual learning will be assigned to one of
See SCHOOLS, page 25
Vestavia Hills City Schools officials have delayed the start of classes by a week and now will open Aug. 30.
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
24 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Homewood Students Get Chamber Awards Hand Delivered The Homewood Chamber of Commerce recognized a student from each school in the Homewood City School system July 21 with the Annual Excellence in Education Awards. Because of the coronavirus and social distancing requirements, chamber members skipped the traditional luncheon this year and, instead, presented students with the awards at their homes. Meredith Drennen, executive director of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, along with Floresha Watkins Woodall, a Homewood Chamber board member and Regions Bank executive, distributed award certificates to the students. The award winner from Homewood High School also will receive a scholarship sponsored by Regions Bank. The caravan ceremony honored students from the five Homewood City Schools:
SCHOOLS From page 24
two groups. Each group will alternate the day of the week they attend school to limit the number of students in the building each day. On days when a students’ group is studying from home, they will be provided with assignments developed by their teachers to complete at home in addition to using an e-learning program. Elementary school students in grades Pre-K through 6th who chose the traditional learning option over virtual will spend all five weekdays at school. Students in grades 4 through 6 who traditionally rotate classrooms throughout the day will now remain in one classroom to lower the risk of cross-contamination. Extended day programs will not be offered for the first nine weeks of the
SCHOOLS • Harrison Massie of Homewood High School • Kayla Warren of Homewood Middle School • Travis Heathcock of Edgewood Elementary School • Emily Villanueva Garcia of Hall-Kent Elementary School • Jackson Martin of Shades Cahaba Elementary School
Vestavia Student Attends Economics and Community Development Program at Huntingdon Emily Giles of Vestavia Hills was one of 24 rising high school seniors who participated in the fourth annual Huntingdon College Economic and Community Development Scholars Program June 23-25. ECDS introduces young citizens poised to begin their professional careers to the importance of economic and community development. It is planned in partnership with and
year. Facial coverings will be required for all employees and students, but the schools plan “mask breaks” throughout the day, during which students can take off their masks for a bit as long as they are six feet apart.
Vestavia Hills
Vestavia Hills City Schools officials have delayed the start of classes by a week and now will open Aug. 30. The system will continue to offer both virtual and traditional formats, according to Superintendent Todd Freeman, however on-site instruction protocols have been adjusted. Students in pre-K through fifth grade will continue to meet every day of the week. Grades six through 12 will be broken into two groups that are placed on an alternating schedule throughout the week, spending one day on campus and the next day off campus to reduce the
sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, the Economic Development Association of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Commerce. The students met with professionals seasoned in the processes of economic and community development and participated in three economic development simulations. State leaders, including Alabama Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, addressed the program participants. “We had an incredibly impressive collection of high school students participate in our virtual program last week,” said Dr. Anthony Leigh, Huntingdon senior vice president and an architect of the program. “These students are difference-makers in their schools and their communities. I am confident they have been enlightened about what economic and community developers do, and we hope that knowledge has given them an appreciation for the work of growing and bettering their community and our state.”
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 25
We work tirelessly to help kids get well because the world needs to see what Natalie dreams up. WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.
number of people present at schools each day. According to a statement from the Vestavia Hills City Schools released last week, 18% of students at that time had enrolled in remote instruction for the first semester. Vestavia High Principal Tyler Burgess will move from that role to become principal of the remote learning model because of the large number of online students. As a result, Liberty Park Middle School Principal Tonya Rozell will become VHHS principal, and LPMS Assistant Principal Roger Dobnikar will be interim principal of LPMS for the 2020-21 school year. With circumstances changing by the minute, State Superintendent Eric Mackey is giving local school systems some flexibility, encouraging them to adjust their policies based on community needs. Local school systems are anticipating many logistical changes between now and the start of school.
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26 • Thursday, August 6, 2020
SPORTS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Hoover’s Hinds Tabbed 2020 National High School Boys Track & Field Coach of the Year
Rehab Reality... by Judy Butler
By Rubin E. Grant
Back to School Worries
It’s not enough that we all have to deal with the coronavirus and whether schools will be open or what format they will have. Add to that the usual worries as kids go back to school or off to college. Parents have additional worries. With an exception of following the CDC guidelines here are a few things you can do: 1. Have the “drug and alcohol” talk with your child. Equip them with the consequences of drug and alcohol use. 2. Pay attention to red flags of issues such as depression or anxiety. A very large percentage of young people self-medicate in order to experience relief from stressful issues. 3. Know whom your kids are hanging out with. The most significant indicator of drug use is peer group. If your child is hanging out with drug users or kids who drink, odds are your child is also doing it. 4. Support their efforts to particpate in sports, drama, clubs or other healthy social activities. Kids who are active in these pursuits are less likely to recreationally use drugs or alcohol. 5. Have dinner together with your children at least once a week to maintain a healthy, meaningful dialogue. Listen to them. 6. Don’t expect the school to solve the “family time” for them or give them a
sense of belonging. Sending your child away to school or college won’t protect them from the possibilities of falling into habits that can ruin their lives. 7. Don’t be afraid to confront your child if you have suspicions. Hold them accountable for their behavior and spending. Think of it this way – college campuses can become the supermarket for drug dealers. You can’t be too careful and trusting when it comes to protecting your children. If your child has a problem with alcohol and/or drugs consider getting help for them before it becomes a bigger problem. Speaking of bigger when it comes to rehabs Bigger isn’t Better – Better is Better. We’ve proven that smaller is Better. With only six clients at a time our clients get the individual attention they need. Most rehabs have ‘cookie cutter’ programs with 12step meeting at the core. At Bayshore Retreat clients receive about 30 hours of counseling weekly which consist of individual, group and Life Skills. In addition our program has a holistic approach to health with dry sauna therapy, massage therapy, exercise, food and vitamins. Compare everything carefully before going to or sending your loved one to a rehab. You’ll find that Bayshore Retreat will be the best choice. It’s different and that can make a difference.
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For the second time in as many years and the third time in his career, Hoover track and field coach Devon Hind has been honored by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. Hind was named the association’s boys track and field and cross country national Coach of the Year on July 28. The award was presented by the U.S. Marine Corps. Hind was selected the Boys’ High School Coach of the Year for Alabama for the 2019 track and field season. He was the association’s 2014 Girls Coach of the Year for Alabama. Hind has guided Hoover to four consecutive Class 7A boys indoor titles and six of nine championships, along with seven girls titles since the Alabama High School Athletic Association restarted the sport in 2012. “Our goal is to win state every year,” Hind said in a release from the association. “There is a level of commitment that needs to be had to do that and we get that from our athletes and coaches. They don’t take competing or coaching at Hoover lightly.”
BANDS From page 24
In the end, Smith recalled a quote he recently heard that perfectly emulates his outlook, “I am hoping for some precedented time. This unprecedented time is causing too many problems.”
Universal Quandary
Other schools are facing the same issues as they prepare for band season with fingers crossed. After Hoover City Schools delayed the start of school, the Hoover High School marching band adjusted its calendar accordingly, delaying the start of band camps but continuing to have weekly sectionals. Meanwhile, Spain Park’s marching band is continuing practices as scheduled. “We are very fortunate to have a facility that allows for appropriate spacing both outdoors and indoors and an administration and nursing staff eager to help us make wise informed decisions about how to participate in this activity safely,” a statement on Spain Park’s band website reads. During band camp, masks are required indoors unless a student is playing their instrument. Students will also have their temperatures taken before entering a building and be required to take a baseline screening test.
Since taking over the Bucs’ program in 2003, Hind has led Hoover to 39 track and field or cross-country championships. This past indoor season, the Bucs romped to a 25.5-point win at the state meet at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Hoover qualified athletes in 14 finals and scored in 12 of those. “You have to realize that the shot put counts just as much as the
60-meter dash,” Hind said. “Everybody usually just focuses on their team’s specialty. We try to focus on every event. It’s not about winning events. I mean, it’s nice to do that, but it’s about scoring points. All of those third, fourth and sixth places add up at the end of the meet.” Hoover turned in some incredible individual and relay efforts at the state indoor meet. In sweeping the horizontal jumps, the three athletes who were involved in that feat – L.J. Hill, J’Marri McCall and John Watkins – all set personal records, namely Watkins with his 48-10½ triple jump that ranked him fifth nationally. Not to be outdone, the Bucs’ 4×200 relay team went 1:28.50 to win and ended the season nationally ranked alongside Watkins at fifth. “We had a great season in the sprints and jumps and all of that credit goes to my assistant coaches, like Carl Floyd and Mark Ruffin,” Hind said. “They get their athletes ready to compete when the chips are on the table and it’s really fun to watch that.” Hoover’s outdoor season ended in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Spain Park students who select the full-time online schooling option still will be able to participate in band, choir, art and dance courses. They will be required to exit the building when that class ends. The Homewood High School marching band planned to march in the 2021 Tournament of Roses Parade, but tournament officials recently announced that the parade will no longer be happening due to the coronavirus. However, the band was invited to perform in the 2022 Tournament of Roses Parade. Homewood’s band has shifted its focus to preparing for football season and is moving forward as if football season will go on as usual. Instead of sitting indoors to learn their music, as they usually do, members of the Homewood marching band are practicing outdoors, and they have been split into five practice groups. Chris Cooper has been at Homewood High School for 21 years, and he took over the marching band last year. “We are trying to keep this activity going because these kids love the arts. Many kids have said if it wasn’t for band and choir, they would have only virtual classes. That really is the power of music,” said Cooper. The band staff at Homewood has taken several steps to ensure safety. Instruments will be covered with shields and bell covers to reduce particle spread in the band room.
And the school has bought 500 masks to go with the band uniforms, as well as 300 bell covers and plenty of hand sanitizer. Cooper said that local band directors have a group text with each other and that they are all doing a hybrid band camp schedule similar to his. “The Over the Mountain schools are doing what we are doing and piecing it together as it goes along. At this point, having any kind of marching band is going to be exciting for us,” Cooper said. Homewood students who select the virtual schooling option can still participate in band after school. “Most teachers at Homewood are doing either all virtual or all faceto-face, but band directors are doing both. We are planning to have virtual private lessons once a week,” said Cooper. A livestream of band class will be available to virtual students in the band. Some of the other arts-related activities in schools have more time to adjust their curriculums than marching band officials do. For instance, show choir, a major student organization at Homewood High School, doesn’t have its season until spring semester. “You can either be positive about this situation or believe that this is the worst scenario ever,” said Cooper. “We are going to be positive and keep going. My goal is to give these kids some sense of nor-
Devin Hind has guided Hoover to four consecutive Class 7A boys indoor titles and six of nine championships, along with seven girls titles.
HOOVER From page 28
We have to get ready for whatever comes our way,” he said. Hoover coach Josh Niblett is happy the Bucs were able to schedule Dothan for their opener. “We were in (a) situation that when Georgia moved back its season we needed a game,” Niblett said. “We looked at the schedules where Alabama teams were playing Georgia teams. Dothan had three Georgia schools on their schedule and had a jamboree against Park Crossing in week zero. “They moved Park Crossing to a regular season game and agreed to come to Hoover to play us.”
‘We like to play the best competition and Dothan will be a good matchup for us. They are very athletic and very well coached.’ JOSH NIBLETT, HOOVER FOOTBALL COACH
Niblett already had a good working relationship with Dothan coach Smitty Grider. “The year before, we went there to
Thursday, August 6, 2020 • 27
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play them in a spring training game and they were excited to come here,” Niblett said. “We like to play the best competition and Dothan will be a good matchup for us. They are very athletic and very well coached. “This will be their first year in Class 7A. They played 6A last year after combining two schools (Dothan High and Northview). They’ve been together a year now so they will have continuity.” Hoover’s remaining schedule of non-region games remains intact. The Bucs will play Bessemer City on Aug. 28 and Prattville on Sept. 25. The game against Dothan is in keeping with Niblett’s strategy to play schools from south Alabama during the regular season. “We like to play schools from the south to gauge how we measure up,” Niblett said. “We already had Prattville on the schedule. We played Opelika one year and ended up playing them in the state championship game.”
with helmets and shorts only. The other fall sports – volleyball, cross country and swimming and diving – can use the first week for acclimation and tryouts. Schools also could choose to start fall practice on Aug. 3. The first contest can be played Aug. 20. AHSAA Executive Director Steve Savarese said the organization is trying to provide member schools the tools for a safe return to play during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The purpose of the Return to Play document is to offer AHSAA member schools best practices in order to commence the 2020-21 school year athletic seasons as scheduled and as safely as possible,” Savarese said. During an online news conference to give details about the Best Practices guidelines, Savarese emphasized that it’s a fluid situation. “Everyone should understand this sports season will not be normal,” he said. “We cannot think in normal terms. Sports could change as we get new health information. “We are trying to mitigate the exposure to COVID-19 as much as possible. We will not eliminate it. Parents will have to make a personal choice whether to allow their children to participate.” Some of the modifications announced for football include the
team box for players, which will be extended on both sides of the field to the 10-yard lines; non-helmet face coverings; and timeouts being extended to a maximum of two minutes. “We’re planning to play a full schedule, but if schools get shut down, fall sports will end,” Savarese said. Yeager said the entire ordeal brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has been a learning experience, from schools closing in March, eliminating spring training and resuming workouts in June. “This whole thing has taught me to take whatever you get and make the best of it,” Yeager said. “We’re going to start. I don’t know how long
we’ll get, but we’re going to maximize it because I don’t know if on any given day it will be the last chance to be out there with my players. “We had the best summer we have ever had. We had incredible energy. And when we were shut down, we spent a lot of time with our players on Zoom and phone calls. We texted them every day. I learned more about my players and built deeper relationships. I feel I know them better than any team I’ve had.” For more information about the AHSAA modifications for fall sports go to ahsaa.com and click on the link that says 2020 Fall Sports Rules Modifications and Best Practices.
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Hoover’s Hinds Tabbed 2020 National High School Boys Track & Field Coach of the Year. Page 26
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Bucs’ Football Season-Opener Against Dothan Took Some Scrambling
‘MAKE THE BEST OF IT’ Mountain Brook’s Yeager Appreciates Chance to Play Football This Fall
By Rubin E. Grant
M
ountain Brook football coach Chris Yeager knows it wasn’t an easy decision, and he’s thankful that the Alabama High School Athletic Association Central Board of Control approved the AHSAA’s Return to Play ‘Best Practices’ guidelines and reaffirmed plans to start the 2020 football season on time. The action was taken July 23 at the central board’s annual summer meeting in
Montgomery. “I know it was a very hard decision and they had gotten input,” Yeager said. “I am glad they allowed us to have input, but it’s a lot easier to make suggestions than make decisions. “We’re going to move forward and trust and respect what’s been done.” AHSAA fall sports teams had the option to begin fall workouts July 27, with the first week used by football for acclimation purposes and See YEAGER, page 27
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‘We had the best summer we have ever had. We had incredible energy. And when we were shut down, we spent a lot of time with our players on Zoom and phone calls. We texted them every day. I learned more about my players and built deeper relationships. I feel I know them better than any team I’ve had.’ CHRIS YEAGER, MOUNTAIN BROOK FOOTBALL COACH
Josh Lundy has taken all the changes to Hoover’s first game of the 2020 high school football season in stride. The Bucs were supposed to open the season with a game at the Mercedes-Benz Dome in Atlanta as one of 20-plus teams in the Corky Kell Classic. But because of COVID-19, the Bucs’ game against Lowndes County (Ga.) on Aug. 22 was moved to Mill Creek High School in Georgia. The NFL’s new protocols would not allow any teams to play inside the dome before the Atlanta Falcons’ opened their season. Now, the Bucs aren’t going to Georgia at all. Georgia pushed its high school season back two weeks and, because of Alabama’s decision to start its season as scheduled in late August, Hoover had to scramble to find a first-game oppo“We like to play schools nent to replace from the south to gauge Lowndes County. The Bucs found how we measure up,” Hoover football coach a willing partner Josh Niblett said. and will play host to Dothan Aug. 21 at the Hoover Met. “We were excited about playing in the Mercedes-Benz Dome, but we’ll play anyone anywhere,” said Lundy, Hoover’s senior quarterback. “We’re excited to play Dothan. “It’s the same deal for us. It’s no different. See HOOVER, page 27
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By Rubin E. Grant
