Alex Wyatt takes office as Homewood’s new mayor.
IN THIS ISSUE
4
16 | And When the Saints... A wonderful wedding in which a Vestavia guy marries a Mountain Brook girl in the Big Easy.
20 | Behind the Magic Jane Dickens has a knack for coordinating layer upon layer of detail on wedding days.
GIVING TREE
22 | King’s Home Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Show Your Love Campaign
22 | City Council President Virginia Carruthers Smith honored with the Jemison Visionary Award
| VHHS athletes provide hope for the Holidays!
23 | The Vestavia Bowling Team 24 | Homewood Duo Reflects on Soccer Success
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JO U RNA L January 9, 2025
Publisher & Executive Editor: Lee Hurley
Editor: Barry Wise Smith
Designer: Claire Cormany
Contributors: Carmen Shea Brown, Madoline Markham Koonce, Loyd McIntosh, Miyelani Mathebula, Anne Ruisi
Photographer: Jordan Wald
Sports Editor: Rubin Grant
Account Executives: Julie Trammel Edwards, Gail Kidd
Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes
My mother had a quilted saying framed on her wall while I was growing up. It said: “Ye know it takes a mighty good man to be better than none.” I wasn’t 100 percent sure what all that implied, but I figured it meant I had better at least put the toilet seat down. Maury Wald is a mighty good man who has raised his child called Over the Mountain Journal from its birth 34 years ago through many highs and a few lows. His willingness to allow me to keep publishing after his retirement makes me wonder if there is something wrong with him? The truth is, I feel a little like Kalen DeBoer must have felt taking over Nick Saban’s job. My specialty in the past has been to take over something that could not go much lower and then think of myself as
a hero for not making it worse. Yet while the jury is still out on Kalen DeBoer and on me, I am so excited to be involved with this paper, and I promise to work my heart out to deliver interesting, entertaining and relevant information to our community, and value to our advertisers. And I’m going to have excellent help. Editor Barry Wise Smith and Designer Claire Cormany will join regulars Jordan Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Gail Kidd and our wonderful writers to help publish this paper twice a month. And if Maury doesn’t move to Tahiti and drink cocktails out of a hurricane glass with an umbrella, I’m hoping he might continue to help out a bit. Pray for us if you can.
–LEE HURLEY
A Mountain Brook High School girls basketball reunion is scheduled for January 24th at 5:30 p.m. at the Mountain Brook basketball arena. The current girls team will be playing Woodlawn High School. This includes all girls who have ever played at Mountain Brook High School. Former players will be recognized at halftime.
Daniel Wallace
Lydia Clayton, Carlin Gregory and Anna Novellino enjoying an evening at the Poinsettia Ball.
Photo by Jordan Wald
New Take on Medicine
Dr. Jerry Kitchens takes a new approach to medicine.
BY BARRY WISE SMITH
When Dr. Jerry Kitchens’ father was diagnosed with Dementia almost seven years ago (he passed away from the disease in August 2024), Kitchens quickly became frustrated with the expensive and seemingly ineffective treatments available for the disease.
On the recommendation of a friend, Kitchens began reading Dr. Dale Bredesen’s New York Times bestseller The End to Alzheimer’s—a groundbreaking book that includes a plan to prevent and even reverse Alzheimer’s Disease and cognitive decline by identifying and focusing on 36 metabolic factors (micronutrients, hormone levels, sleep) that can trigger “downsizing” in the brain.
The book and his subsequent research sent Kitchens on a path to discovering the benefits of functional medicine. “Reading this book really changed my whole way of thinking,” he says.
Kitchens began his medical career as a surgeon, practicing for 23 years until arthritis
professionals who were involved in functional medicine practices. They visited a functional medicine clinic in Cullman, and Kitchens began a friendship/mentorship with Dr. Jim McMinn, a former ER doctor who practiced functional medicine in Homewood until his retirement.
“Functional medicine is truly innovative compared to our current practice of identifying the disease and controlling it with pharmaceuticals,” Kitchens says. “But really, it’s a throwback to our lifestyles before we became so sedentary: eating fresh, local foods to drive detoxification; sleeping well at night; being active.”
Inspired by everything he was learning, Kitchens went back to school to learn more about the practice of functional medicine. Completing online modules through a program on the West Coast, “It felt like going back through the first two years of med school learning all the basic sciences,” Kitchens says.
“Functional medicine is truly innovative compared to our current practice of identifying the disease and controlling it with pharmaceuticals.” –dr. jerry kitchens
in his hands caused him to lay down his scalpel and assume an administrative role at St. Vincent’s (now UAB St. Vincent’s). “But I miss the patient-facing part of healthcare,” Kitchens says. “It’s very rewarding helping patients achieve better health.”
Not one to sit still, Kitchens also has his real estate license and created Ron & Jerry’s White Trash Boil (a crawfish boil seasoning with his friend and business partner Ron Williams) that is sold in local stores.
Kitchens along with his colleague Dr. Anthony Saway began talking to other medical
“It was amazing to be in this virtual classroom and learn these things all over again. I’m still re-educating myself.”
Today with an eye toward the future, Kitchens plans to continue his functional medicine education and operates a clinic on Friday. “My dream is to have an office within walking distance from my house,” Kitchens says. “I want to open a one-stop functional medicine clinic and help put patients on the path to health and wellness.” OTMJ
For more information, email Dr. Kitchens at Homewoodhealthandwellness@gmail.com.
Dr. Jerry Kitchens and his wife Tricia at their home in Homewood.
Photo by Jordan Wald
The Best Ways to Get Fit and Healthy in 2025
BY CARMEN SHEA BROWN
It’s that time again, when we resolve to “lose weight and get in shape...” for good this time. But with medications like Wegovy and Ozempic offering the promise of quick fixes, consumers are often left confused and broke. And despite the popularity of these medications, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 70 percent of Americans are still overweight or obese, with Alabama having one of the highest adult obesity rates (more than 35 percent) in the country.
Kristi Sibert, a certified eating disorder registered dietician, says many of her clients are not just looking for another diet plan. “They’re not trying to be a size two. They just want to be healthy,” Sibert says. “They are looking for balance. There is no deep secret in any kind of diet except this: calorie intake versus calorie expenditure. Weight loss is occurring because you’re burning off more calories than you are eating.”
Although new weight loss drugs have been promising, the FDA only recommends these drugs for people with a Body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higherand at least one weight-related health condition like high blood pressure. These medications can also have side effects like vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain. In addition, these drugs are expensive and often not covered by health insurance. Those who do choose to use these medications still need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise.
But it’s never too late to make health a priority.
“The first thing I would advise is to start small,” Sibert says. “Exercise for two or three days a week for just 20 or 30 minutes. It may be as simple as doing a yoga video or walking during your lunch break.” Find something you enjoy that fits your personality, lifestyle and budget. “It shouldn’t feel like punishment,” she says. “If you start small, it serves as a reinforcement to keep you going.”
“The key to lasting change is to develop a more positive overall relationship with your body.”
–kristi sibert
In the New Year, many people join gyms, but that does not work for everyone. Some people prefer to work out alone rather than with other people, while others are more encouraged in a small group or social setting. Whatever seems comfortable is what Sibert recommends.
“If you do choose to join a gym, look for ones that are offering New Year’s specials or a free month trial,” she says. “That will give you time to decide if it’s going to work for you.”
When it comes to nutrition, Sibert says people need to beware of the fads and trends the diet industry tries to promote, especially this time of year. “Diets create deprivation and a vicious cycle of guilt and shame,” she says. “A lot of diets eliminate whole food groups, but I believe all foods can have a place in your diet.”
Sibert is an advocate of mindful eating: that is, eating when you’re hungry and stopping when you’re satisfied. “Try putting a little less on your plate than you normally would,” she says. “People often find that they can get by with less than they are used to eating.”
Mindful eating also involves being aware of where and in what circumstances you eat. “Try to sit at a table when you eat and not in front of the TV,” Sibert says. “People also need to determine if they’re dealing with difficult emotions and find healthier ways to cope, whether it be through journaling, meditation or even watching Netflix. Emotional eating is normal for all of us to a point. But if you find yourself doing that several times a week, eating more than you normally would, or eating in secret, those can be signs of a deeper problem. I encourage people to seek therapy if they need help working through these issues.”
People often associate getting healthier with what they cannot eat, but Sibert encourages people to think about what they need to increase in their diet not simply remove. “If you’re getting enough fruits and vegetables
recipe SHEET PAN MEAL
(For 2 people—double for a family)
For a cold winter’s night, there’s nothing like a warm comfort meal. Sheet pan meals are quick and easy and very satisfying. It’s a good way to have a balanced meal without being labor intensive with a lot of ingredients.
ingredients:
• 10 oz. lean diced raw protein such as chicken tenders, sirloin steak, or salmon
• 2 cups diced potatoes (white or sweet)
• 2 cups diced vegetables of choice
(Brussels, broccoli, or green beans)
• Olive oil
• Greek seasoning (Cavender’s or Penzey’s Mural of Flavor for salt free)
• 2 oz. goat cheese
• 2 slices bacon
• Honey or balsamic glaze
method:
After dicing your protein, potatoes, and vegetables, stir them separately with olive oil and spread in 3 sections on a large stone or aluminum pan. Sprinkle seasoning on protein and potatoes, and salt and pepper to taste on vegetables. Cut raw bacon into small pieces and sprinkle on veggies. Bake at 400 for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are fork tender and meat is done. It’s best to stir each food around halfway through cooking. When done, sprinkle goat cheese and either honey or balsamic glaze over veggies. Enjoy a balanced heart healthy meal!
(which is doubtful), try fiber and protein,” she says. “Protein should be included in every meal for full satisfaction. Try including more peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and cheese.” And avoid those sugary drinks. Many of Sibert’s clients have found that if they just lay off the sweet tea, they lose weight.
“The key to lasting change,” Sibert says, “is to develop a more positive overall relationship with your body: Think about how to give it more nutrients, how to make it stronger, and make sure you get enough sleep. It isn’t just a behavior change. It’s a mindset that combines the physical, mental, and spiritual. You must learn to tell your body, ‘I trust you.’” OTMJ
For more information, contact Kristi Sibert at sibertnutrition@gmail.com or call 205-590-5448.
Photo by Jordan Wald
Holiday Assembly Celebrates 81st Year
The 81st Holiday Assembly was held December 20th at the Country Club of Birmingham. In September, the mother-daughter tea, held at Mountain Brook Club, kicked off the annual tradition. The presentees are high school juniors with either a mother, grandmother or aunt who was presented at a past Holiday Assembly. The presentees and their dates enjoyed a formal, sit-down dinner prior to the presentation. The talented Carole Sullivan transformed the East Room with elegant floral designs and winter garland. Escorted by their fathers, the presentees made their formal presentation in the East Room followed by a father-daughter dance to conclude the presentation. The festivities carried into the night with a dance for the presentees and their high school-aged guests with music by the band Brother 2 Brother from Tuscaloosa.
WELCOME NEW CLASS
The presentees at the Holiday Assembly were: Miss Evelyn Posey Baird, Daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Carl Baird III; Miss Margaret Haygood Bittick, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Aston Warnock and Mr. Charles Bittick; Miss Kathryn Lamar Burns, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Andrew Burns; Miss Virginia Katherine Byars, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Oliver Byars; Miss Abby Marie Canterbury, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edwin Canterbury; Miss Mary Grace Carlton, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Stallworth Carlton; Miss Alice Martin Clapp, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Brian Clapp; Miss Leyden Elizabeth Comer, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Thornton Comer IV; Miss Willa Allen Crescenzi, Daughter of Ms. Virginia Bunting and Mr. John Crescenzi; Miss Sarah Neal DePiano, Daughter of Mr. Christopher Joseph DePiano and Ms. Evelyn Storm DePiano;
Miss Hollis Adair Fann, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tyler Evans Fann; Miss Eleanor Grace Farmer, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Orr Farmer; Miss Grace McCray Faust; Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Ewing Faust; Miss Jane Johnson Fowlkes, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harris Fowlkes; Miss Gillian Palmer Goodrich, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Drennen Goodrich; Miss Virginia Louise Howard, Daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Harrison Howard; Miss Daisy Carlisle Howard, Daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Harrison Howard; Miss Isabelle
Montgomery Lawrence, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Reed Lawrence III; Miss Mary Margaret Malatesta, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas Aquinas III; Miss Jenevieve Garrett McNeil, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Garrett McNeil; Miss Julia Ruen Naftel, Daughter of Mr. Robert Page Naftel and Mrs. John Ranson Roussel; Miss Abigail Alston Norris, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Atticus Norris IV; Miss Sophia
Louise Osbun, Daughter of Ms. Alexis Muse Osbun and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Clapp Osbun, Junior; Miss Elizabeth Parker Owens, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dean James Owens; Miss Mary Bains Reynolds, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard James Reynolds IV; Miss Ada Uihlein Slaughter, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Callaway Slaughter; Miss Hollis DeLany Thomasson, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Daniel Thomasson; Miss Tessa Lance Woodall, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Hamilton Woodall; Miss Anna Burch Seibels Vaughn, Daughter of Mr. Joseph Collin Vaughn and Mr. and Mrs. Jason Thomas Ogletree; Miss Elizabeth Oliver Wood, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Dee Wood; Miss Camille Rhodes Wood, Daughter of The Reverend and Mrs. Randall Lanier Wood; Miss Eva Jane Worthen, Daughter of Dr. and Dr. James Vann Worthen and Miss Evelyn Paylor Yeilding, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Lynch Yeilding. OTMJ
Escorted by their fathers, the presentees made their formal presentation in the East Room of the Country Club of Birmingham. Photo courtesy Holiday Assembly
57th Annual Poinsettia Ball
The Poinsettia Men’s Club and Ballet Women’s Committee hosted the 57th Annual Poinsettia Ball on December 19th at Regions Field. The Ballet Women’s Committee was founded in 1967 to foster and promote fine arts in the greater Birmingham area. All proceeds from the Poinsettia Ball support the Alabama Ballet. Twenty-three young women were presented by their families. After their presentation, the debutantes continued the evening with a traditional Father-Daughter Waltz, followed by music and a reception. Nineteen junior debutantes were introduced to the ballroom before the debutantes’ entrance. Each young lady was introduced on her father’s arm and then seated.
The Ballet Women’s Committee President is Allison Herr. Liz Guest is the Ball Board President. Beth Martin is Ball Chair. Sarah Bryan and Amanda Peters serve as Debutante Social Co-Chairs and coordinated all debutante activities. The Benefactors Benefit Chair is Jayna Southerland. Amy Parker and Aimee Stone serve as Junior Debutante Social Co-Chairs. Lisa Bolton is Photography Chair. Laurel Patrick serves as Decorations Chair. Diane Early is Ball Treasurer. Alissa Padgett serves as Invitations/Ticketing Chair. Cori Prier is Programs Chair. Stacey Gregory and Jenni Kime are Publicity Co-Chairs. Melissa McMurray and Sharon Maddox serve as Advisors. Tammy Towns and Morgan Cunningham serve as Rehearsal Co-Chairs. The Ballet Women’s Committee Executive Board includes Allison Herr, Jordan Bishop, Beth Rose, Diane Early, Jane Bochnak, Liz Guest and Melissa McMurray. The Poinsettia Men’s Club President is Mr. Charlie D. Stewart, Jr. OTMJ
by
Mary Alex Maluff, Emma Kerby, Kate Morros and Eleanor Petrey
Emily Elizabeth Avis, Ayden Christie Anderson, Blakely Lewis Berryhill and Sarah Margaret Bodiford
Mary Claire vonEschenbach, Ashby Thomas, Reilly Elizabeth Williamson and Mary Lansley Schick
Lily Johnston, Anna Spencer Lawley and Victoria Holmes
Riley Marie Early, Merritt Elizabeth Flynn, Ella McKee Harper and Cailin Campbell
Sara Steadman, Addison Wint, Sela White and Anna Cate Tanner
Photos
Jordan Wald
Homewood Christmas Parade
The
The City’s official Christmas tree was lit on SoHo Plaza at the end of the parade.
Homewood youth cheerleaders get into the Christmas spirit.
The Homewood Star was lit at the beginning of the parade by Homewood Pharmacy owner Ryan Hamilton and his family.
David Lamb, Andrea Lindenburg, Santa Claus and Mayor Alex Wyatt
Brownie Troop 26015 won Best Scout Entry for their Totally Rad 80’s Ski Chalet parade float.
City of Homewood kicked off its annual Christmas Parade at 6:30 p.m. on December 10th from the Homewood Public Library and featured the lighting of the Homewood Star on 18th Street as the parade entered downtown Homewood. The parade finished with the lighting of the Christmas tree at city hall plaza. OTMJ
10th Annual Grand Menorah Lighting
On December 29th the 10th annual Grand Menorah
Lighting at The Summit took place with music, latkes, donuts, glitter tattoos, silent disco, balloons, 360 photo booth, and other Chanukah festivities. The Lighting was a collaborative project of the LJCC, Chabad of Alabama, the Birmingham Jewish Foundation—Karl and Gladys LJCC Fund and the Birmingham Jewish Federation. OTMJ
The Antiquarian Society Celebrates the Holidays
The Antiquarian Society of Birmingham kicked off the holiday season with their luncheon December 11, 2024, at the festively decorated Mountain Brook Club.
Kathryn Porter, (guest) Tammy Towns and Donald Roth decorated the tabletops with an array of Santas, trees and other Christmas ornamental delights. Members and guests were greeted by Janet Krueger and Beverly Phillips. The invocation was given by Cary Baker. New members Ashley Monroe and Jenny McCain were introduced. The delicious menu included curried chicken salad with dried fruit, tomato aspic, rolls, and peppermint ice cream with chocolate drizzle.
Lynne Coker of Lynne Coker Interiors, shared her many ideas about Christmas décor, particularly for historic homes including Birmingham’s own Arlington Historic Home and Gardens and the Alabama and Georgia Governor’s mansions.
A good time was had by one and all. OTMJ
Ethan, Kate and Alex Ricalday
Gena Casey and Dustin Rozas
Ian Chwatuk and Stella and Gary Chwatuk
Orel Semana and Clarity Lamb
Lighting the Grand Menorah
Looking dashing in white: Liz Warren, Audrey Lindquist and Pam Cirilli
Antiquarians Society VP Dottie Hoover, Lynne Coker, Coker Interiors and Carolyn Delk
Eli Rothenberg and Robbie Rothenberg
Meredith Rich and Brooke Welsh
Oliver, Trent and Elizabeth Esser-Stuart
Photos by Jordan Wald
22 Young Women Presented at the Redstone Club’s Annual Christmas Ball
The Redstone Club’s 117th Christmas Ball was held December 21st at the Country Club of Birmingham. More than 150 members of the Redstone Club and their guests attended the group’s annual Christmas celebration.
The 22 presentees, all current college seniors, wore traditional long white dresses with gloves and carried simple flower bouquets, a complement to their chosen escorts in black tuxedo tails.
The Redstone Club’s 122nd president, Frank Wilson Tynes and his wife Claire presided over the presentation, receiving curtsies from each of the young women following their walk down the packed ballroom. This year’s Ball Chairman was Robert Murphy Couch.
Carole Sullivan installed the Christmas themed decorations for both the seated dinner, which preceded the ball, as well as inside the East Room of the Country Club, which hosted the presentation.
THE PRESENTEE CLASS OF 2024 INCLUDED: Miss Dorothy Jane Christian, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Rosamond Christian; Miss Elizabeth Anne Wilkinson Crommelin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William David Sellers Crommelin; Miss Margaret Foley Doyle, daughter of Dr. and Dr. John Scott Doyle; Miss Anne-Marie Harris Dunn, daughter of Mr. Evans Johnson Dunn and Ms. Katie Whitt Dunn; Miss Laurie Frances Mandel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Francis Mandell; Miss Sanders Grace Oliver, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Craft O’Neal, and Mr. Rees Evans Oliver; Miss Olivia Kerr Robinson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lee Robinson, Jr.; Miss Ila Danielle Worthen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Thacher Worthen, Jr.; Miss Mamie Grace Bernard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Bates Bernard, sponsored by Mr. John Albert Mcneil, Jr.; Miss Carolyn Campbell Boyd, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Philip Howard Boyd, Jr., sponsored by Mr. John Parker Evans II;
Anne-Marie Harris Dunn, Elizabeth Chapman Lott, Frances Lanier Isom, Frances Parker Faulconer
Mary Douglass Evans, Olivia Kerr Robinson, Francis Eleanor Hagan, Mary Celeste Murray, Jessie Katherine Jones
Ball Chairman Robert Murphy Couch and wife Anne with 2024 Club President Frank Wilson Tynes and wife Claire
Margaret Foley Doyle, Ann Carlton Keller, Elizabeth Laurie Frances Mandel, Millie Martin Dorman
Isabelle Clayton Yates, Carolyn Campbell Boyd, Frances Carlisle Wilson, Mamie Grace Bernard
Lilla Caldwell Flake, Sanders Grace Oliver, Ila Danielle Worthen, Elizabeth Anne Wilkinson Crommelin, Dorothy Jane Christian
Miss Millie Martin Dorman, daughter of Mr. Evan Clifford Dorman and Ms. Walker White Dorman, sponsored by Mr. William Bew White III; Miss Mary Douglass Evans, daughter of Mr. Jonathan Scott Evans and Ms. Mary Simmons Evans, sponsored by Mr. William Cary Hulsey; Miss Frances Parker Faulconer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Percival Hunter Faulconer III, sponsored by Mr. James Wylie Shepherd, Jr.; Miss Lilla Caldwell Flake, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jared Grey Flake, sponsored by Mr. Charles Sheppard Caldwell III; Miss Francis Eleanor Hagan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wil-
lis Cobb Hagan III, sponsored by Mr. Henry Stratton Fowlkes IV; Miss Frances Lanier Isom, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hewlett Chervis Isom III, sponsored by Mr. William Spencer Ragland; Miss Jessie Katherine Jones, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Hoyt Jones, sponsored by Mr. Charles Kennedy Porter; Miss Ann Carlton Keller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Carlton Keller, sponsored by Mr. David Alan Elliott; Miss Elizabeth Chapman Lott, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Ervin Lott, sponsored by Evans Dunn, Jr.; Miss Mary Celeste Murray, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Jay Harton Murray, sponsored by Richard Murray IV; Miss Frances Carlisle Wilson, daughter of Mr. John Golightly Wilson and Ms. Anna Brantley Fry, sponsored by Mr. William Shields Tynes; Miss Isabelle Clayton Yates, daughter of Mr. Dustin Blake Yates and Ms. Elizabeth Clayton Yates, sponsored by Mr. Charles Trueheart Clayton.
At the Ball luncheon, held at the Mountain Brook Club on December 20th, the presentees were introduced to the club membership and
received some background on the long history of the event and the club. Also represented were three members of the 1974 presentee class, whose 50th anniversary was celebrated.
The “golden girls” from 1974 were: Leila Lanier Ager, Margaret Henderson Blackwell, Frances Peterson Givhan, Catherine Anne Herren, Carolyn Johnston Miller, Anne Kidder Smith, Elizabeth Myhand Abbott, Florrie Lou Chapman, Elizabeth Dunbar Cowan, Virginia Bond Cox, Merle Louise Drennen, Mary Emory Furniss, Jane Jeffers Hagan, Katherine Wiley Livingston, Leslie Miller, Laura Miller Perry, Margaret Corell Pevear, Katherine Maurine Quinn, Sarah Hamilton Rice, Margaret Evins Ringland, Barbara Wallace Scott, Sally Van Zile Scott, Rebecca Denson Washington, Elizabeth Keyser Wilson.
Music chairman John Rembert Simpson arranged the evening’s accompaniment. For the cocktail party, the debutante presentation and first dance, the Choka Aiken Quartet set the musical atmosphere.
Following the presentation, You’ll Love this Band from Atlanta took the stage, turning the formal setting into a rocking dance hall that kept the presentees and their escorts, along with a few hardy members, dancing late into the evening.
The club would like to extend their thanks to the members of the Ladies Committee who once again ensured the presentees hit their marks while looking their best. This year’s members were Mrs. Henry Claiborne Crommelin (Jane Huston), Mrs. Christopher Scott Abele (Leah) and Mrs. Edward Morris Holt (Shannon).
The 2024 Redstone Club officers are: Frank Wilson Tynes, president; Evans Johnson Dunn, vice-president; Courtenay Renneker Bloodworth, secretary-treasurer; John Glenn Cobbs, traditions chairman. OTMJ
Mayor of the Moment
Alex Wyatt takes office as Homewood’s new mayor.
BY BARRY WISE SMITH
On November 1, 2024, something happened that Alex Wyatt never saw coming. After Mayor Patrick McClusky announced his retirement in September, Wyatt, the Council President, assumed the office of Mayor. When asked if he ever predicted being Homewood’s mayor, Wyatt’s answer is simple, “Never. Absolutely never.”
Wyatt got his start on the Homewood City Council when he was appointed as the Ward 4, Place 2 councilor in June 2015. “I had expressed interest in serving the city in some capacity,” Wyatt remembers. “Then the spot opened up on the Council, and I submitted my name for consideration and was appointed.” Wyatt served the final year of Heather Reid’s term and ran unopposed in 2016 for a full four-year term.
“I wanted to support the schools and make sure
“Bringing fresh energy is always good, and it’s time to hand it over to people with fresh perspectives and new ideas. I’ve enjoyed all my roles, and I am very proud of the work we’ve done and the things we’ve accomplished.”
–alex wyatt
President. “I knew there was going to be an open seat (President Peter Wright had decided not to run for re-election), and I thought it was important for that seat to have Council experience,” Wyatt says. “I had run meetings when Bruce (Limbaugh) and Peter (Wright) were out. I enjoyed it and felt like I could do it and do it well.” Wyatt ran unopposed and took the President’s seat in November 2020.
they had everything they needed,” Wyatt says of his goals then. “And I wanted to address Homewood being under the Lid Bill.
In 2018, Wyatt led the effort to have Homewood removed from the state’s Lid Bill, which caps a municipality’s Ad Valorem taxes. With neighboring cities Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills exempted from the cap, in November 2018, Homewood, which had been at the cap since 2010, attempted to be exempted as well. “It was a big deal to me because it was so important to our schools,” Wyatt says. “We wanted to be able to control our own tax base.” While the vote passed by a large majority in Homewood, the effort ultimately failed. “The people in Homewood saw the importance of it, but we just couldn’t get the whole county to vote for it,” he adds.
In 2020, Wyatt decided to run for Council
In September, Mayor Patrick McClusky announced his decision to retire on November 1, 2024. McClusky’s announcement triggered the city’s order of succession, putting the Council President in the Mayor’s seat for the remainder of the term (with an additional year added by the state, the mayor’s term officially ends on November 1, 2025).
“I was sorry to see Patrick go because we had worked so closely during his term, but I was excited to end my career in public service by doing this for a year,” Wyatt says. He had already decided that this term would be he his last and he would return to his full-time job as an attorney. “My day job will stay the same, I’ll just have more time.”
Wyatt is also ready to help Homewood transition to the new Council-Manager form of government, which passed by referendum in September. “I’ll be able to help complete the transition to the new form of government, which is very important to me,” Wyatt says. “The passage of the Council-Manager form of government is the biggest thing any of us have ever been a part of. It had been needed for a
long time, and it will help Homewood meet its full potential. By making this happen for Homewood, it felt like a capstone for my career in public service.”
For the next year, in addition to helping the council implement the city manager form of government, Wyatt will focus on finishing the projects—like stormwater and economic development—that have been underway. “My goal is to set the table for the next Council and Mayor and make the transition as smooth as possible,” Wyatt says. “Bringing fresh energy is always good, and it’s time to hand it over to people with fresh perspectives and new ideas.”
When Wyatt completes his mayoral term in November, he plans to end his public service career. “I knew that the end of this term was going to be the end of my career in public service.” Wyatt says. “I just didn’t realize I’d be finishing as the mayor. I’ve enjoyed all my roles, and I am very proud of the work we’ve done and the things we’ve accomplished.”
Wyatt was born and raised in Mountain Brook, and graduated from Mountain Brook High School, Spring Hill College, and the University of Alabama Law School. Wyatt is married to Megan, with whom he has children Riordan, 29, and Ander, 22. Wyatt is an attorney at Wilson Elser, where he started on the day he assumed his role as mayor.
As for what he’s looking forward to in November 2025 when his term of service is up, Wyatt has a ready answer, “I’m excited to figure out which restaurants are open on Monday nights!” OTMJ
Alex Wyatt being sworn in as Homewood’s mayor on November 4, 2024.
Photo by Brian Wallace
Photo by Lynn Cummings
And When the Saints
A wonderful wedding in which a Vestavia guy marries a Mountain Brook girl in the Big Easy.
Newlyweds Mimi Waggoner Wininger and Dee Wininger are in their car on the way to Point Clear for a wedding. The author asks which one of them is driving? “I am,” Dee says. “Why is that,” the author asks? “Because I value my life,” Dee laughs.
This story is about a Vestavia guy who falls in love with a Mountain Brook girl, and the two get married in New Orleans in November where everyone has an incredible time. On Sunday after the wedding, they catch a Saints game before flying out Monday to Antigua.
The couple has been married less than two months and happily they have the key ingredient required to keep a marriage interesting: a sense of humor. In the midst of Covid, Mimi, who graduated from Mountain Brook High School in 2015, met Dee, who graduated from Vestavia Hills High School in 2009. Mimi was hanging out at a friend’s house near Saws Juke Joint in
top: The small army also known as the wedding party: Jake Woolley, Brit Hurley, Mike Atkins, Allie Amedee, Briggs Montgomery, Logan Harmon, Will Hall, Ali Sutherland, Brad Blount, Lissa Barkley, Tripp Shields, Hannah Benak, Best Man Adam Poer, Matron of Honor Mary Seldon Luther, Dee Wininger, Mimi Waggoner Wininger, Catherine Keller, Jon Keller, Anne Peek, Winn Kelley, Anna Catherine Gillespy, Will Riser, Anne Baxley Winn, Harris Waggoner, Annie Wyatt, Robert Thornton, Jane Brinkley, Carson Amick
above, left: The bridesmaids waiting for the star of the ceremony to come downstairs.
left: Stepdad and mom Thomas and Sherry Grier, Dee and Mimi with parents Susan and Mark Waggoner
above: Senator Jabo and Marilyn Waggoner, grandparents of Mimi, at the rehearsal dinner with Mimi and her brother Harris.
right: Saturday morning PJ party on Magazine Street
BY LEE HURLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA FISHER
DESTINATION WEDDING
Aside from a recent tragedy in the French Quarter, New Orleans is at the top of the destination list for anyone who enjoys good food, good beverage, good music and good times. Luckily for Mimi, her mother Susan grew up in New Orleans, and the family traveled down I20/59 many a Mardi Gras, Christmas and Thanksgiving to visit Susan’s parents Jack and Mimi Calhoun. In fact, Mimi’s parents were married in New Orleans in the Calhoun’s back yard in the Garden District. Rumor has it someone hid an alarm clock in the monkey grass where it chimed as vows were being exchanged. That was back in 1993 when weddings were a little more mischievous. So, when it came time to talk about wedding options for Mimi and Dee, NOLA was an obvious choice.
Crestline Park, and the girls there knew some Vestavia guys who lived nearby. Dee and Mimi were introduced, and a spark was ignited.
Their first real date was dinner at the Grand Bohemian, which they must have enjoyed because Dee decided to propose to Mimi there in a tricky way. He told her he was taking her to a Green Sky bluegrass concert at Avondale Brewery but instead asked her to marry him and then took her back to her parents Mark and Susan Waggoner’s house for a surprise party.
Dee and Mimi went to the University of Alabama after high school—where Dee was a Phi Gam and Mimi was a KD—though their paths never crossed in Tuscaloosa. Now, Mimi teaches at Preschool Partners while Dee is nearly a year into an account manager positon with Honeywell selling industrial safety supplies. They live in Crestline Park not far from where they met. Asked who cooks, the answer is, they both do, on a Blackstone grill they got as a wedding gift. Dee does steaks, while Mimi’s specialty is lemon baked salmon. Mimi hesitates when asked who does the dishes, “mostly me, but we help each other out.”
The final question, “is there anything at all you would like to change about each other? “His snoring,” Mimi says, “the rest is perfect.” “She’s right,” Dee says, “we got to fix my snoring.” OTMJ
The Reception following the wedding took place at the Audubon Clubhouse in Audubon Park on 6975 Magazine Street.
above: Save the last dance for me.
left, l to r: Anne Baxley Winn, Jake Bicksler, Harris Waggoner, Mimi Wininger, Brit Hurley, Sam Harmon, Eliza Bicksler and Mary Claire Harmon in revelry. below, left:
KDs Laura Charbonnet, Evelyn Pritchard, Mother of the bride
Susan Waggoner, Cille Breckenridge and Linda Williams
below: The beautiful bride being laced up by her mother.
above: The father about to give his daughter away. left: Mike Atkins pregaming before taking the trolley to the church.
Father and brother of the bride Mark and Harris Waggoner
above: Hannah Hastings, Anna Catherine Gillespy, Allie Amedee, Ali Sutherland, Dee, Mimi, Lissa Barkley, Annie Wyatt, Mary Seldon Luther, Jane Brinkley, Anne Peek, Logan Harmon
left: The end of the evening featured a second line out the door.
The newly married Winingers and many of their friends decided to stay Sunday and watch the Saints beat the Browns! top row guys from left: Walt McKean, John Woolley, Joseph Alexander, Austin Garrett, Harris Waggoner, Blake Harris, Dee, Thomas Harmon, Sam Brinkley. girls from left: Augusta Brook, Allie Amedee, Ellen Coleman Alexander, Anna Catherine Gillespy, Mimi, Lissa Barkley, Anne Baxley Winn, Ali Sutherland, Logan Harmon, Jane Brinkley
right: Mimi being chased by her husband in Antigua.
“Often brides know what they want, but they don’t know how to get there. I am able to share my resources and perspective and past experiences and give them some guidance.”
–jane dickens
Behind the Magic
Jane Dickens has a knack for coordinating layer upon layer of detail on wedding days.
BY MADOLINE MARKHAM KOONCE
Growing up, everyone would always call Jane Dickens the “cruise director.” She always had a plan to keep everyone organized and make sure they had what they needed.
It should come as no surprise then that today she uses that same skillset for her wedding coordination business, Jane B. Dickens Events. “I love the magic of the day,” Dickens says. “I just want to serve people and make them happy so they can enjoy their day.”
It all started back in 2016 when Dickens was working as an administrative assistant for Laurie King, the principal at Crestline Elementary School. King’s daughter was getting married, and she approached Dickens about helping with coordinating it. “You keep my days structured. You know where I am supposed to be and what I’m supposed to be doing. I need somebody like you to help me with her wedding,” Dickens remembers King saying.
Dickens wasn’t sure about it at first, but with encouragement from King, she stepped into the role for that first wedding in 2017. From there, another teacher had a daughter getting married and asked Dickens to do for her wedding what she’d done for the King wedding.
The next year she coordinated two weddings, the year after she did seven, and things snowballed from there. Eight years into the wedding chapter of her life, Dickens has now coordinated 100 weddings as of December 28–her 23rd event of 2024. “It has been a sweet season in my life,” Dickens says, noting that her wedding planning started just as her two children were graduating from high school when she had more time as an empty nester. “It renewed my purpose and my self-worth of what I could do.”
A teacher by trade (and currently one for preschoolers at Vestavia Hills Elementary East), Dickens has applied the same detail-oriented organizational skills she once used on lesson
plans to the many, many details of a wedding day. Above all, she wants the bride and her mother to feel like they can be a guest at their own party. “Many brides have a great idea of what they want for their day, and they don’t mind doing all the footwork,” Dicken says. “They give me all the bits and pieces, and I put it together like a puzzle and make it fit for the day.”
So after months of planning, a bride passes the baton to Dickens a week or two before the big day, and from there the bride and her mom know all the details are being taken care of with Dickens acting as the go-to person for any vendors’ questions or mishaps that might arise. And Dickens’ calm, even-keeled demeanor is a part of it all.
Like Mary Poppins, she comes with a kit of anything and everything that might be needed on a wedding day: Band-Aids, extra socks, boutonniere pins, Tide wipes, Benadryl, even fishing line. “I have sewn two or three people back in their dresses because you don’t have time to do it with needle and thread but you can turn it inside out and sew it up with fishing line,” Dickens says.
Dickens is also there to think through everything from taking the packaging off glow sticks for the dance floor to how the bride and groom are getting to the airport to leave for their honeymoon. On the wedding day, she’s the keeper of the list of all the bridesmaids and groomsmen and their contact information, so if someone doesn’t show up, she can be the one to call them.
In addition to her organization skills, Dickens enjoys thinking through ways to make a wedding day special and personal to a particular bride and groom. For one family where she has coordinated two of the sisters’ weddings and is now working on a third, the brides had lost their father and ended up honoring him by pinning a photo of him onto their bouquet and using it
Jane becomes the mother of the bride at her daughter Caroline’s wedding.
at each wedding. “Often brides know what they want, but they don’t know how to get there,” Dickens says. “I am able to share my resources and perspective and past experiences and give them some guidance.”
For brides who want to use a coffee table book as a guest book, she encourages the couple to think about a way to connect it to a part of their life, whether it’s a book of photos of their honeymoon destination or a cookbook for a couple whose first date was at a cooking class. For a late night pass, they might serve a food that’s significant to their relationship, like Gilchrist grilled cheeses for a couple whose
first date was at the Mountain Brook Village soda fountain.
While most of Dickens’ event work is weddings, she’s also planned rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, celebrations, whatever people want help with.
Often people ask Dickens if she plans to retire from weddings when she retires from teaching, but the answer is a resounding no.
“I will keep doing this as long as people call me because it is a passion,” she says. OTMJ
Email Jane Dickens at jane@janebdickensevents.com.
As we welcome 2025, we have much to celebrate, especially the excitement of holiday engagements! At Bromberg’s, we take pride in making every couple’s journey uniquely special—from selecting engagement rings and wedding bands to creating a wedding registry tailored to their individual tastes.
If you’re newly engaged, creating a wedding registry at Bromberg’s is a delightful and seamless step of wedding planning. While online registries are available everywhere, nothing compares to the personalized service and expertise
provided by our bridal consultants. With the South’s most extensive selection of fine china, casual dinnerware, crystal, silver and home décor, every couple that registers at Bromberg’s will be guided in setting a beautiful table that will be the focal point of cherished memories for years to come. Additionally, your guests will appreciate the wide variety of in-store gift choices or the convenience of our Bromberg’s Gift Letter program.
Our signature Gift Letter program offers couples unmatched flexibility. Instead of managing returns or duplicate gifts, couples receive a beautiful gift letter detailing each registry purchase, along with the giver’s name and message.
A store credit for the amount of the gift is automatically issued to the couples’ accounts, allowing couples to redeem it for anything they wish, while taking advantage of seasonal sales and exclusive offers.
Additional benefits of registering at Bromberg’s include discounts on attendant and hostess gifts, 20 percent off wedding bands and a free place setting with the purchase of seven settings.
Couples can register at Bromberg’s, located in Mountain Brook Village and The Summit, or online at www.BrombergsBride.com.
3.01 carat radiant diamond engagement ring, available at Bromberg’s in Mountain Brook.
Several of Jane’s brides gathered together for a photo. from top left: Dawson (Williams) Boyd, Colee (Harkins) Britton, Catherine (Creighton) Nichols, Alison (Creighton) Johnson, Margaret (Howell) McPherson, Bottom left: Janie (Creighton) Denney, Caroline (Barber) Autrey, Jane Dickens, Erin (Korn) Creighton, Eliza (Harmon) Bicksler
GIVING TREE
King’s Home Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Show Your Love Campaign
BY ASHLEY CARR SMITH
In 2016, King’s Home Board member and Mountain Brook resident Kendall Eagan came up with a creative idea to raise awareness and crucial funds for the organization selling colorful Valentine’s Day bows and signs. Over the past 10 years, The Show Your Love Campaign has raised over $303,000 to support abused youth, women and children at King’s Home.
“The growth and community participation in Show Your Love has been nothing short of remarkable,” says Lew Burdette, President of King’s Home. “This event has not only fostered a sense of unity and generosity within our community but has also significantly bolstered our ministry’s efforts.” Lew adds, “The vision of Kendall Eagan has turned this event into a beloved Valentine’s tradition, providing our
Over the past 10 years, The Show Your Love Campaign has raised over $303,000 to support abused youth, women and children at King’s Home.
ministry with much needed support.”
The sale starts in mid-January and runs until the beginning of February. Donations support programs at King’s Home which is a Christ-centered 501©3 non-profit organization and ministry operating 21 residential group homes across Alabama. For over 50 years its mission has been to provide hope, healing, and refuge for abused, abandoned, and neglected youth, women, and children.
“The name of the campaign says it all,” says Board President Leigh Ann Moor. “Ahead of Valentine’s Day, “Show Your Love” signs and bows start popping up on mailboxes and in yards to support all that King’s Home provides for so many youths, women and children. We are always so grateful for the communities support.”
Show Your Love relies on volunteers with various ways to help, such as buying a bow and sign or becoming a neighborhood captain to assist with deliveries. To register, visit kingshome.com or email info@kingshome.com for volunteering inquiries. OTMJ
HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS!
In December, more than 20 student athletes from the Vestavia Hills High School chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes donated decorated Christmas trees for all 33 guest rooms at Birmingham’s American Cancer Society Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge. The Hope Lodge provides free housing—a true home away from home—for cancer patients and their caregivers while they are undergoing cancer treatments in the area. Under the leadership of Coach Alex Carroll, the athletes decorated Christmas trees to bring joy and comfort, and a touch of home, to the patients who are away from their own homes during the holidays. This inspiring act of kindness demonstrates the power of youth to make a positive impact on their community. OTMJ
Jemison Visionary Award
The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce will honor City Council President Virginia Carruthers Smith with the Jemison Visionary Award at its annual luncheon on January 29th The award recognizes a servant leader whose commitment and contributions to Mountain Brook are unparalleled. “If you think about all the improvements and amenities added to the Mountain Brook community since 2000, Virginia Smith’s handprints are all over them,” says MB City Manager, Sam Gaston. City Councilman Billy Pritchard adds “No one has ever so willingly and graciously stepped forward to serve our city in so many ways over her 25 year tenure. Virginia’s thoroughness in analyzing issues and her firmness in her decisions as our preeminent city leader has been inspiring and a blessing to us all—especially me.”
Other recognitions at the luncheon: The O’Neal Library will present the Tynes Award to Patsy Dreher, and the City of Mountain Brook will recognize its Employee of the Year, Lindsy Gardner. This event will also celebrate the accomplishments of the chamber during the year, in addition to recognizing outgoing Board President, Joseph Braswell.
To learn more or attend the luncheon visit mtnbrookchamber.org or for additional inquiries reach out to Lizzie Maymon, Mountain Brook Chamber Executive Director at chamber@mtnbrookchamber.org. OTMJ For more January events visit OTMJ.com
left: Mountain Brook philanthropist Kendall Eagan created the Show Your Love campaign a decade ago to raise awareness and much needed money to support King’s Home.
For a decade, the Vestavia Hills High School boys bowling team has been among the most successful programs in the state, winning multiple regional and state championships since first becoming eligible in 2015. The program is one of the most diverse sports at Vestavia Hills, bringing together kids with various backgrounds and abilities.
Under the direction of Head Coach Todd Evans, the Rebels are on track to compete for another title. Ranked No. 1 in the state and, at the time of this writing, headed for another Area 4 and region championship, the program has come a long way since Athletic Director Jeff Segars unexpectedly named him head coach. “I was hired to be a P.E. teacher when one day Segars comes up to me and goes, ‘Hey, you’re the bowling coach,’ and I was like, ‘Oh, that’s a good one,’” Evans laughs. “He said, ‘No,
BOWLING
A Decade of Strikes and Community Service
BY LOYD MCINTOSH
I’m being serious. You’re the bowling coach.’” Evans admits he didn’t know what was going on that first year but leaned on the knowledge of girl’s head coach Debra Broome to learn the ropes. Fewer than 10 kids came out for the team that first year, and while they had a pretty good year, they were knocked out in the state playoff, a turning point for Evans and the program as a whole. “When I coached football, after every loss I would write down how we got beat, and after that first loss in bowling, I wrote down ‘Me’ because I couldn’t help the kids,” Evans says. “It was the first time I’d ever coached in my life where I felt completely lost.”
Evans worked with Ryan Nance, owner of Ryan’s Pro Shop at Vestavia Bowl, to learn the intricacies of bowling, developing into one of the area’s premiere coaches. He has also made bowling a popular sport at Vestavia Hills, growing the program from nine bowlers in 2015 to 22 bowlers for the 2024-25 season. Evans says the diversity of the personalities adds to the team’s chemistry. “I’ve got kids who play baseball and football, and I’ve got kids who play baritone saxophone and Dungeons and Dragons. It works because we create a kind brotherhood.”
That brotherhood extends away from the alley as well. Evans has imbued the bowling team with a healthy sense of social responsibility. Over
the years, the team has raised money for local Alzheimer’s organizations, partnered with Special Olympics, and is now doing service projects for elderly and disabled Vestavia Hills residents. Evans also relies on the varsity team members to mentor the junior varsity, including two team members with Down syndrome— Joshua Maners and Vaughn Rainer—and have helped the team members learn to be responsible citizens as well as competitors. “Joshua and Vaughn have been awesome for our team,” Evans says. “They get to compete in a real varsity sport, and it helps the other guys to keep a perspective on what’s important in life.”
Junior Douglas Dellaccio, one of the bowling team’s leaders, says the camaraderie and opportunities to make a difference in his community are among the top factors that help him and his teammates form a bond away from the bowling alley. “We have that friendship that allows us to bowl as a team and not just as individual players,” says Dellaccio “We really build off each other’s energy, and I think that’s what really helps us. The Vestavia Hills High School bowling team (20-1) will compete in the Area 4 Tournament at Oak Mountain Lanes on Wednesday, January 15, and then host the AHSAA Region Tournament on Thursday, January 23, and Friday, January 24, at Vestavia Bowl. OTMJ
above, l to r: Coach Todd Davis with bowlers Davidson Smith, Joshua Burgess, Carson Gentry, Douglas Dellaccio and Grayson Kusibab right: Grayson Kusibab rolling a strike
Homewood Duo Reflects on Soccer Success
BY MIYELANI MATHEBULA
Former Homewood High School students
Charlie Herring and Hardy Smith are no strangers to soccer success. During their decorated tenures on the HHS boys soccer team, both acted as team captains and brought 6A state championship trophies home for the school: Smith in 2021 and Herring in 2024. Both players also sported number ten jerseys on the pitch while playing under head soccer coach Julian Kersh.
In 2021, Smith led his team as senior soccer captain to a scintillating 2-1 victory over McGillToolen for the state title. Many memories were forged on the journey to the championship, including a fresh take on the notoriously difficult “sombrero flick” that Smith performed in the semifinals. “I’ll never forget celebrating with all my best friends on that field in Huntsville,” Smith says. “There’s nothing like it.”
Herring, a freshman at the time, observed his future college teammate closely from the sidelines. “I’ve never seen anyone do anything like that in a high school game,” Herring says. “There’s no real words to describe it…I don’t know how he thought to do that, but it worked out.”
Three years later Herring—after working up to the position of soccer captain as a senior—helped bring home another state championship trophy by defeating Spanish Fort 3-1 in the spring of 2024. “I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited for a game than I was for [the championships],” he says. “It was something we’d been chasing for three years and, to be there against a team
I knew we could beat? I was pumped.”
Herring and Smith now both attend Rhodes College, a Division III liberal arts school in Memphis, Tennessee, where they play on the Rhodes Lynx men’s soccer team together. Herring is pursuing a degree in business with a concentration in finance, while Smith is finishing his final year as a math major.
The move from high school to collegiate sports was not an easy transition for the former varsity players. An increased time commitment coupled with grueling practices and upper-level coursework, marks a period of change that many high school athletes are not fully prepared for. “It’s not all sunshine and rainbows as a college athlete,” Smith admits. “You don’t necessarily realize it when you’re a high schooler who wants to play at the next level. You kind of just think, ‘I’m good’ or ‘It’ll be easy’.”
Another challenge that former high school players face is going from a comfortable senior playmaking position to learning the ropes of the collegiate team experience. Figuring out the dynamics of a newer, older team while working under a different coach presents a unique test. “It took a second to get into the flow of things,” Herring says. “Everyone’s better here, everyone’s good here, so the skill level definitely increased [which] took a second to adjust to.”
Smith recalls being excited about Herring committing to Rhodes. “Our coach recruits from all over the U.S.,” Smith says. “We have kids from California, Connecticut, New York, [so] having
someone from your specific high school is not something that happens very often.”
Although they never played together in high school, the “Homewood Duo” has enjoyed a stronger connection since their time playing together in college. Matt Lamb, the Lynx head soccer coach, sees their collaboration as an asset to the team. “Hardy and Charlie were both critical pieces to our success this year,” Lamb says. “As a senior, Hardy provided consistency and maturity from the start of the season, playing the best soccer of his career. Charlie worked hard and got better every week, playing an important role in some of our biggest games at the end of the year. We were lucky to have both of them at Rhodes.”
The Lynx finished the season as the Southern Athletic Association’s (SAA) regular season
“Understanding yourself, having some idea of who you are, what you like to do, who you want to be is the most important part.” –hardy smith
champions and the number one seed and host of the postseason tournament. Seven teams from across the Southeast faced off in a single elimination bracket for the opportunity to compete in the NCAA Division III championship tournament in Las Vegas.
After receiving a bye in the first round of play, the Lynx beat the Centre College Colonels in a suspenseful matchup that went into double overtime. Max Sosa, a sophomore defender for the Lynx, scored the game-winning goal—with an assist on a corner kick from Smith. “Charlie actually takes all the corners when he’s in, but he had just taken one, so he waved me over to take the next one, so he didn’t have to run across the field—we’d been playing for almost 110 minutes,” Smith says. “I just served it in, nothing special. Sosa jumped up and nodded it in. There were a lot of “Let’s Go’s” and a dogpile after that.”
On November 11, Rhodes played Oglethorpe University for the SAA trophy. After a hard-fought battle that also stretched into a second overtime, the Lynx fell to the Stormy Petrels 1-0.
Although the loss brought Smith’s collegiate soccer career to an end, he has learned to value self-discovery outside of his sport. “I’m moving on to different things,” he says. “But understanding yourself, having some idea of who you are, what you like to do, who you want to be is the most important part.” OTMJ
Herring (left) and Smith (above) both wore the number 10 jersey as senior captains for the Homewood High School varsity soccer team, and both won 6A state championships in 2021 and 2024. Photos by Scott Butler
Smith and Herring are now teammates on the Rhodes Lynx men’s soccer team.
Photo by Sai Patel
Photo by Jordan Wald