By Anne Ruisi
In 1871, the squalid jumble of tents, shanties and boxcars that eventually became the Magic City sat at one end of a 67-mile railroad gap in North Central Alabama between Birmingham and Decatur.
That’s until a North Alabama railroad man, Col. James W. Sloss, struck a deal with the Louisville and Nashville
Sometimes a journey of hope is a 3-year-old boy with Down syndrome walking with the aid of a gait trainer to his new preschool class. A friendly group of grown-ups –later identified as teachers – are standing at the door, cheering him on.
“Welcome, David!” they cry out.
A journey of hope is also his mommy walking alongside him with tears in her eyes because she knows her son will be accepted here for who he is –knows this is where he can get the help he needs; this is where he can thrive.
“Being part of United Ability has changed our lives,” said Camilla Moss of Mountain Brook. “The love and care that the teachers and staff feel for their children is incredible. I can-
By June MAthews
An exciting evening of celebration is in store during United Ability’s annual Journey of Hope event on Aug. 19 at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. And what an evening it will be. After all, it’s been 75 years in the making.
See FAMILY, page 7 See HOPE, page 7
Railroad to close that gap with rail construction that led to an explosion of development and the birth of the mining and steel industry that earned Birmingham another soubriquet, Pittsburgh of the South.
Sloss, who 10 years later founded Sloss Furnace Company and began construction of the city’s first blast furnace, and two of his descendants, Birmingham real estate developers A. Page Sloss Sr. and Arthur Page “Pete” Sloss Jr., will be honored Aug. 24 when they are inducted into the Kiwanis Club of Birmingham’s Business Hall of Fame. The event, the Kiwanis Club’s 25th induction, will be from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Harbert Center.
Three other Hall of Famers to be honored that evening are retired UAB Health System CEO Dr. Will Ferniany, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute’s Odessa Woolfolk and the late Carrie Tuggle, who in the early 20th century
See KIWANIS, page 8
‘A
ASO Maestro’s Ball hosts
soprano Aundi Marie Moore for fundraising gala PAGE 6
PAGE 8
Five events will highlight Birmingham’s first FOOD+Culture Festival PAGE 20
When I was in elementary school, I wrote our Congressman John Buchanan requesting copies of NASA photographs, I had seen advertised, chronicling the Apollo space program. He responded with a letter, along with a carefully packaged envelope of more than a dozen 8.5 x 11 glossy photographs. My most treasured pictures included the Eagle lunar module and scenes of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin bouncing along the lunar surface.
Over the years I enjoyed looking at these pictures, once I remembered the safe place I put them, and I began to see things I had not noticed as a child. I kept looking at Apollo’s 8’s iconic view of the earth as it was orbiting the moon. The beautiful bright colors of the oceans and the distinct lines of the continents, through the whisps of the white clouds were overshadowed by the reality of our home, suspended in the vast darkness of space. Alone, fragile, and vulnerable.
dents to travel and compete across the country. Their success became nationally recognized and was a source of pride back home.
Involvement in Rotary was my chance to cross to the other side. From the child that benefited from the goodwill of others to joining other like- minded individuals. While our days seem to be dominated with stories that divide, you will find 46,000 Rotary clubs in over 150 countries, adopting similar local projects centered around the motto of “Service Above Self” and thinking big. Rotarians around the world united as one, more than 40 years ago, in an effort to eradicate polio from the face of the earth. Our Birmingham Rotary community were early leaders in this effort that created the momentum and that has resulted in providing over 2.5 billion children with the oral vaccine.
ABOUT TOWN 3
NEWS 8
SOCIAL 10
otmj.com
HOME 16
FOOD 20
SPORTS 24
With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area. To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JO U RNA L August 10, 2023
Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald
Copy Editor: Virginia Martin
Features Writer: Donna Cornelius
Staff Writers: Ana Good, June Mathews, Anne Ruisi
Photographer: Jordan Wald
Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant
Contributors: Emil Wald, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch
Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd
Vol. 33, No. 25
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.
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This picture has been a screensaver on my phone for many years, as a reminder of how small our world really is and how much we have in common. As a child I took a lot for granted. The food on my table, the roof over my head and the people in my life that made things happen, allowing me to be a kid and dream. The coaches that showed up for practice, the scout leaders that planned our trips and the chaperones and teachers that made field trips possible. I grew to understand that none of these things happened by accident. These role models , which included my parents, neighbors, community, and business leaders were willing to invest their time and money in my generation. I believe they were working to leave the world a better place and now it was my turn to do the same.
Joy and Georgie Langley introduced me to world of Rotary 30 years ago. Members of the Vestavia club were visible in the community. They could be found picking up trash, ringing the Salvation Army Bell or organizing fundraising events for the Vestavia Hills Math and Debate Teams. The community’s generosity provided an opportunity for stu-
Knowing that people of all races, creeds, and colors, have the same desire to create a better tomorrow in their own community and around the world energizes me! It is powerful and hopeful. I don’t feel as alone, vulnerable, or fragile with this shared purpose.
This formula can be applied to almost any issue that faces us when we look beyond ourselves. Our differences have an opportunity to disappear, and we improve the odds of success in delivering impactful results.
Rotary relationships, along with my parents, family, friends, and mentors have taught me what is important, and the Rotary Four Way Test provides the next step with these words; “Of things we think, say, or do. Is it the truth? Is fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships and will it beneficial to all concerned?” With this in my pocket and on my mind, the odds of making better daily decisions at home, at work and in the community are in my favor.
Kent Howard is a member of the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club
Here was my chance to cross to the other side. From the child that benefited from the goodwill of others to joining other likeminded individuals.The two Rotary Clubs of Vestavia Hills hosted a community-wide cornhole tournament at Vestavia City Center on Aug. 5. Thirty teams competed raising over $17,000 to support Children’s of Alabama Critical Care Transport Team, Vestavia Hills students, Vestavia Hills First Responders and Unless U. Cahaba Benefits Group and Your Choice Senior Care led the way raising the most in donations. The winning and runner-up cornhole teams of Speegle Construction and Greenhalgh Insurance advanced to compete against other Rotary Clubs from across the state at Rotary’s Boiling n’ Bragging Tailgate event at Otey’s on Aug.19. Visit boilingnbragging.org for more information. Journal photos by Maury Wald
AUG
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
The Biblical story of Joseph comes to vivid life in this Webber & Rice classic, with musical styles spanning country-western to bubblegum pop to rock n’ roll. When: Showtimes vary. Where: Red Mountain Theatre
Aug. 10-13
Bill Bugg and Friends Part 6
Bill Bugg is back with an all-new cavalcade of cabaret to kick off the season at Homewood Theatre. He and his friends will be singing show tunes and standards backed by a swinging combo. When: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 10-12, 2:30 p.m. Aug. 13. Where: Homewood Theatre
Fri., Aug. 11
Friday Nights @ McWane: Ready, Set, Go!
This event for guests 21 and older promises an evening of games and programs geared around the science of speed. Music from DJ Rod, food and a cash bar will be on hand.
When: 7-11 p.m. Where: McWane Science Center
Sat., Aug. 12
Fairytales and Frogs
Guests will enjoy a magical morning with a court of Enchanted Princesses and delectable breakfast and have the opportunity to meet and take photos with a multitude of royals, and yes even some frogs. When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Where: Henley Lawn, Birmingham Zoo.
Crestline Village Tent Sale
The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce holds its annual Crestline Tent Sale with special promotions and discounts. When: Business hours
Where: Crestline Village
Pin Down Polio Bowling Tournament
Join the Rotaract Club of Birmingham for this family-friendly event to benefit Rotary International End Polio Now campaign and the Rotaract Club of Birmingham. When: 2-4 p.m. Where: Vestavia Bowl
Birmingham Festival Theatre
50th Season Gala
Solve a murder mystery as theater enthusiasts support Birmingham Festival Theatre at this gala. Also enjoy a photo booth, silent auction, a caricaturist, food and a cash bar.
When: 6-10:30 p.m. Where: Avenue
D Event Space
Aug. 18-20
Cahaba Heights/Rocky Ridge
Tent Sale
Merchants in these Vestavia Hills business districts will offer merchandise deals up to 90% off.
When: Business hours Where: Cahaba Heights and Rocky Ridge business districts
Sat., Aug. 19
Mitchell’s Place Dragon Boat
Race & Festival
Watch teams paddle across the waters of East Lake as they compete in traditional dragon boats in this fundraiser for Mitchell’s Place, which serves children on the autism spectrum and their families. Food trucks will be on hand, as will a kids zone and there will be a Bloody Mary
contest. When: 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Where: East Lake Park, Birmingham
Homewood Library Foundation
Block Party
This family-friendly fundraiser benefits the library. Food, drinks, live music and children’s activities will be on hand. When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Library
Boiling n’ Bragging
Rotary District 6860’s annual fundraiser for the Critical Transport Team with Children’s of Alabama
About Town continued on page 4
BOOKS, BANDS, AND BREWS | THURS., AUG. 17
The Literacy Council of Central Alabama Second Annual Books, Bands, and Brews fundraiser will feature local band Crimson Cabins and Nashville-based singer-songwriter Tristen Gaspadarek while Saturn’s bartenders mix up cocktails that are out of this world. Every ticket purchased helps The Literacy Council continue its mission of improving the lives of adults and their families through literacy education that teaches people to read, write, and speak English. When: 7 p.m. Where: Saturn Birmingham
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brings together good food, good friends and some healthy football team rivalry during a fun cornhole tournament. When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Where: Otey’s in Crestline Village
KIDS Kasino at the YWCA
YWCA Central Alabama will host the KIDS Kasino for adults with casino games, hors d’oeuvres and child care for parents. This fundraiser will benefit the YWCA’s Child Development Center. When: 6-10 p.m. Where: YWCA Central Alabama
Just a Call Away 5K
Participants have three options to join The Crisis Center’s ninth annual event: a live chip-timed 5K, an in-person fun run, or a virtual 5K. When: 5K starts at 8 a.m., fun run at 9 a.m., awards ceremony at 9:20 a.m. Where: Patriot Park, West Homewood
Aug. 21- 27
Sidewalk Film Festival
The 25th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival presented by Regions Bank is returning with a festival footprint that includes the Sidewalk Film Center and Cinema, the Alabama Theatre, the Lyric Theatre, The Kress Building Ballroom, First Church Birmingham, the Alabama School of Fine Arts Dorothy Jemison Day Theatre, Lecture Hall and Black Box Theatre, the BJCC Theatre and the BJCC Forum Theater, as well as the Steiner Auditorium at the Birmingham
TAILGATE
The Bell Center for Early Intervention will host its 15th annual fundraiser to celebrate the upcoming football season. This family-friendly event invites football fans to sample delicious food and drinks from some of Birmingham’s best tailgaters. All proceeds benefit The Bell Center, which provides early intervention therapy for infants and toddlers with special needs. When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: The Bell Center
Tues., Aug. 22
Artist Reception for Andy Jordan
Artist Andy Jordan, whose work is now on display in Aldridge Gardens’ gallery, will be honored with a
refreshments. When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Aldridge Gardens
Aug. 24-26
Lil Lambs Consignment
gently worn clothing, toys, and furniture at reasonable prices. All unsold items marked “donate” will be shared with families and organizations in need in our area. When: Times vary based on day Where: Trinity United
Sat., Aug. 26
Back to School Bash
This event kicks off the new school year with rides, bounce houses, food and live entertainment. There is no admission charge but to jump and play on the bounce houses and ride the mechanical attractions, you can pruchase a $10 wristband that will provide unlimited access to everything. Proceeds from the wristband sales go to benefit the Homewood High School Band.
When: 4:30pm-8:30pm Where:
Patriot Park
Fairy Tale Ball
Ready your shiny suit of armor, dress in your most sparkly ball gown, or throw on a super hero cape as Childcare Resources will host its annual kid-friendly gala, including a silent auction, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and more. When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Hyatt Regency Birmingham, The Wynfrey Hotel
Sat., Sept. 9
Vestavia Hills Shred & Recycle Day Electronics and household hazardous waste will be collected and paper shredding services will be available. Proof of residency required for hazardous waste disposal. Check the city’s website, vhal.org, for specific requirements and fees for certain electronics. When: 8 a.m.-noon Where: Vestavia
Scan with your phone’s camera to go to our specials page. bedzzzexpress
*Offers cannot be combined, some promotions may be limited to select sets. Not responsible for errors in ad copy. Quantities and selections may vary by location. Mattress images are for illustration purposes only Gifts with purchase (including gift cards and rebates) are not valid with any other promotions except special financing for 6 or 12 months.** Monthly payment is based on purchase price alone excluding tax and delivery charges. Credit purchases subject to credit approval. Other transactions may affect the monthly payment. *** 0% APR for 60 months financing available with purchases of $1999 or over and does not include sales tax. ** The special terms APR of 8.99% will apply to the qualifying purchase, and 48 monthly payments equal to 2.5090% of the original special terms balance are required.*** The Nationwide Marketing Group credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 7/25/2023 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 8/21/2023. **** Free base offer applies to Queen set purchase of $799 and above or King set purchase $999 and above. King base applies to either one horizontal King Base or one of two TXL bases.***** Free Delivery on mattress sets $699 and up, Local area.
Animal-assisted therapy provider Hand in Paw recently received a donation from Tito’s Handmade Vodka that will help expand its ability to provide animal therapy to help vulnerable populations.
The $65,000 gift from Tito’s will enable Hand in Paw to train, evaluate, mentor and place therapy teams, as well as provide animal-assisted therapy, to senior citizens and veterans in central Alabama.
Hand in Paw serves several vulnerable populations. The dogs and handlers are trained to provide comfort and affection to people in hospitals, retirement homes, hospice care and schools.
But the group has been experiencing a shortage of therapy teams to meet the needs of the community.
“With the support of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Hand in Paw will now be able to provide services to organizations, like the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Birmingham and seniors in facilities throughout central Alabama at no cost,” a press release issued by the organization states.
Funding from Tito’s, which dubs itself “the Vodka for Dog People,” will allow Hand in Paw to recruit and train 30 new therapy teams in one year that will visit senior citizens and veterans who may be experiencing
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s 2023 Maestro’s Ball will be held Sept. 22 at the Jemison Concert Hall of UAB’s Alys Stephens Center.
This year’s ball is hosted by Susan Curtin, Peter Curtin and Emma Curtin and features orchestra Music Director Carlos Izcaray conducting the orchestra in a program of symphonic works and arias inspired by the theme “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
American soprano Aundi Marie Moore joins Izcaray and the ASO as the evening’s special guest. A 2023 Sphinx Medal of Excellence honoree and member of the Metropolitan Opera roster, Moore drew national attention in 2019 as Strawberry Woman in the Met’s production of Porgy and Bess. Moore will be performing arias by Puccini and Gershwin for the Maestro’s Ball.
Guests at the ball also will be served an array of small plates curated by chef Frank Stitt and Pardis Stitt with Tre Luna.
“I am honored to join the Maestro’s Ball Committee in our largest fundraising effort of the year,” Corporate Fundraising Committee member Emily Wood Bowron said in a statement from ASO. “Red Diamond Coffee and Tea has been an avid supporter of the ASO for decades, alongside much of corporate Birmingham, local foundations and individual donors.”
According to the press release, corporate, philanthropic and individual donors’ contributions through the ball raise as much as 15% of the ASO’s
anxiety and isolation, among other emotional issues.
Additionally, the donation will allow Hand in Paw to launch a targeted volunteer recruitment campaign to help expand the nonprofit’s growing “paw print” in the greater Birmingham and Tuscaloosa areas.
“We are truly honored to have this support from Tito’s Handmade Vodka to expand our animal-assisted therapy program,” said Margaret Stinnett, executive director at Hand in Paw.
“This funding will create the opportunity for dynamic growth within our organization and allow us to continue serving our central Alabama communities.”
Lindsey Bates, director of philanthropy operations at Tito’s, said, “We’re excited to support the work that Hand in Paw is doing to serve vulnerable populations in need. As the Vodka for Dog People, we know firsthand the positive impact that dogs can have, and the care that Hand in Paw is providing in Birmingham will continue to benefit the community for years to come.”
Hand in Paw is accepting applications for its Therapy Team.
Prospective service animals must be two years or older, and the owner must have owned the animal for more than six months.
Tutus and Top Hats is the theme for Hand in Paw’s 22nd annual signature auction, Picasso Pets, to help bring animal-assisted therapy to those who need it most. The evening will include a cocktail reception, seated dinner, wine pull, photo booth and Hand in Paw therapy teams. When: 6-10 p.m. Where: The Harbert Center
Additionally, dogs and their owners are required to complete a group obedience course, according to the press release, to ensure the animal and owner are well-prepared to begin the intensive Therapy Team training program.
For more information on the teams, visit handinpaw.org/volunteer.
Tito’s also is stage sponsor for Hand in Paw’s Picasso Pets gala Aug. 19 at The Harbert Center. Buy tickets and learn more at www.picassopets.com.
operating budget. In addition to helping underwrite subscription concerts, these funds are critical to helping the ASO reach a large and diverse audience through free community engagement performances, a statewide tour and education programs that serve approximately 40,000 students annually, the release states.
More of the ball’s supporters include 2023 Maestro’s Ball corporate chairs Gail and Jeffrey Bayer and Maggie and Tyler O’Connor.
Ball corporate committee members are Lacey Whatley Alford, Emily Wood Bowron, Will Bowron, Dell S. Brooke, F. Dixon Brooke Jr., John
Carter, Virginia Hazelrig Carter, Doug Eckert, John Harbert, Kelly Harbert, Chris Harmon, Jonathan Hoffmann, William J. Long IV, Gina McClanahan, Scott McClanahan, Taylor McElroy, Danney McKinney, Maggie O’Connor, Tyler O’Connor, Anne Schilleci, Vince Schilleci, Robert Schoenvogel, Jeff St. Denis, Jesse Vogtle, Nick Willis and Whitney Wright.
More information about the ball can be found by going to alabamasymphony.org and clicking on menu, then events. Or you may contact Olivia Staggs at ostaggs@alabamasymphony.org.
Ball Hosts Soprano Aundi Marie Moore for Fundraising GalaAmerican soprano Aundi Marie Moore is a 2023 Sphinx Medal of Excellence honoree and member of the Metropolitan Opera roster. Aundi Marie Moore website
From Page One
Founded in 1948 as Spastic Aid to provide services to medically fragile individuals with cerebral palsy, the organization has evolved into today’s United Ability and its full spectrum of services not found anywhere else in Alabama. For 75 years, United Ability, known from 1972 until 2017 as United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham, has been empowering children and adults living with disabilities.
‘Hey, when you come home, you need to check out United Ability. We’ve got some awesome stuff there, too.’”
So the next time Gorrie came home, she took their advice, contacted United Ability and took a tour of the facilities.
“I was blown away that we had this incredible campus in our city giving so many people with disabilities major opportunities and offering empowerment,” she said.
When Gorrie moved back to Birmingham during the pandemic, she saw it as a temporary move. But in the meantime, she realized how much the city had grown in terms of services and organizations working to ensure that people with disabilities are provided with opportunities for independence and empowerment.
From Page One
not say enough wonderful things about them and what they did for David in a short period of time.”
When he started United Ability’s Hand In Hand program in October 2020, David was on a gait trainer, said his mom. But within six months, he was walking without assistance.
“We’re very thankful for the therapy team,” Moss said. “They’re just fantastic in every way.”
David recently graduated from the Hand In Hand pre-K program and will soon begin a year of pre-K at a public school before going on to kindergarten. But his mom is still committed to supporting United Ability. One way she plans to do that is through Journey of Hope, a fundraising event set for Aug. 19 at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center.
“It’s important to bring awareness to the services United Ability provides to the community, and Journey of Hope does that,” she said. “It also raises money needed to expand those services and to continue providing services to families who need them. I will do anything I can to support United Ability because what they do is phenomenal.”
Vitória Bueno, a gifted ballerina, will perform at Journey of Hope, serving as an inspiring reminder that individuals with disabilities can often succeed at what others may believe is impossible.
Bueno, an 18-year-old Brazilian beauty, was born without arms. She gained worldwide recognition through her appearance on America’s Got Talent earlier this year, and videos of her performances on social media have gone viral.
Being honored for their contributions to United Ability are Bob Chapman, Charles Leesburg and Charlie Moses. Last year’s honoree, Chris Biggins, Birmingham golf pro and one of the most highly ranked adaptive golfers in the world, will serve as co-host for this year’s event, alongside Birmingham actor and disability inclusion advocate Alie B. Gorrie.
“I’m really excited to be hosting this year because I love United Ability and what they do,” said Gorrie. “I learned about United Ability maybe six or seven years ago when I was living in New York City and doing some disability-focused theater work there, and a bunch of Birmingham people said,
So Gorrie stayed. “I have my own disability – low vision caused by a rare eye disease that I was born with and for which there is no cure for – so it’s important that any of us with disabilities recognize those places around the city that are showing up and helping people,” she said. “And we need to let everyone know about what those places do.”
Gorrie believes that a big part of the excitement and influence of Journey of Hope is the focus on featuring a disabled artist each year.
“I think that’s incredibly important,” she said. “I know that growing up, I never saw any celebrities or artists or Boardway performers that had a vision impairment or low vision. I had no role models, so I had to create what I wanted to see. But the fact is, there are kids who are going to see Vitoria Bueno – a ballerina who has no arms – and they’re going to see that she is clearly thriving and living an amazing life with a disability.”
Gorrie expressed similar thoughts about her Journey of Hope co-host’s influence.
“Chris Biggins is awesome,” she said. “Where my passion is adaptive arts, he’s super passionate about adaptive sports. It’s important to have all kinds of role models showing kids what people with disabilities can do.”
‘It’s important to bring awareness to the services United Ability provides to the community, and Journey of Hope does that.’
August
By RuBin E. GRantCheryl Dodson was struggling. Seven years ago, her friend John B. McLemore, a brilliant but eccentric clock repairman from Woodstock in Bibb County, died by suicide.
The story surrounding him taking his life is featured in a podcast called “S-Town” that’s been downloaded more than 100 million times.
Dodson, who also lives in Woodstock, had difficulty coming to terms with the nature of McLemore’s death and overcoming her grief. She described the suicide as a “very public situation.”
“I was so ashamed,” Dodson said, “and I was dealing with it publicly.”
The experience eventually led Dodson to become a mental health advocate. She also began attending QPR Gatekeeper Training and conducting classes for it. QPR is an acronym for Question, Persuade, Refer in dealing with suicidal behaviors.
Dodson is now executive director of Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resources Coalition. She will be one of the featured guests during Community Grief Support’s “Unmasking the Complexity of Suicide” conference Aug. 17-18 at Canterbury United Methodist Church.
The two-day conference, being held in partnership with ASPARC and the University of Montevallo, is open and free to the public and is for all mental health professionals, nurses, funeral home directors and staff, and graduate students.
Community Education credits are available.
According to Catherine Pittman Smith, administrative director of Community Grief Support, the conference is a response to the rise in suicides in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Since COVID began in early 2020, we as a nation, state and community have individually and collectively experienced significant loss – with the accompaniment of depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated and exacerbated grief,” Pittman said in a news release about the conference. “Suicide deaths rose dramatically during and since COVID.
Magic City.”
In response to this challenging time, Community Grief Support wanted to take a lead role as an educator in our community to help provide more awareness, more understanding, more education.”
Smith said Alabama’s suicide rate consistently ranks higher than the national rate.
“Simply put, there isn’t enough education on suicide prevention, or mental health for that matter,” she said. “We wanted to create space where people can ask questions and learn more about suicide, including what resources are available, how to help and how to make a difference.
“We live in a grief-avoidant society, and we tend to label and put a mask on the subject of suicide with myths, misperceptions and misinformation.”
Among the other special guests at the conference will be Noah Galloway
and suicide expert Judith Harrington.
Galloway, a military veteran, Purple Heart recipient, author, double amputee and fitness enthusiast, will be the first of three keynote speakers, which include Dodson and Karen Cook Thomas, an ASPARC board member.
Galloway, a Birmingham native, also is known for his inspiring 2015 performance on “Dancing with the Stars.” On the first day of the conference, he will share his story of his battle with depression and PTSD to find mental and physical wellness.
Dodson, who Pittman describes as a “kind of a suicide guru,” and Thomas will share prevention and intervention strategies and ways to help loved ones in a mental health crisis, as well as providing resources for support and understanding. Their presentation also will be live-streamed.
On the second day, Harrington, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT/University of Montevallo, will be part of a “StigmaFree Public Conversation” and Q&A panel. CGS Clinical Director Steve Sweatt, LPC-S, LMFT, also will be
part of the panel. It will be moderated by Janice Rogers, anchor for WBRC Fox 6.
Dodson expects the panel conversation to be of particular interest.
“I was in a class with Judith Harrington and she mentioned that grief is complicated,” Dodson said. “She said there’s one kind of grief if you have someone you love die in a car wreck, but with suicide there’s blame, shame, judgment and mystery. A lot of individuals don’t have a safe space to share what they are going through. Having a safe place to share is so important and it is such a relief.”
The first day of the conference is scheduled to run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with check-in beginning at 6 p.m. The second day begins with an 8 a.m. registration and will run from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
For nearly 30 years, CGS has provided – at no cost – individuals, couples, and family grief counseling; more than 20 loss-specific grief support groups annually in 11 communities; and grief education programs throughout the greater Birmingham area.
To learn more about the conference and register, visit the CGS website, communitygriefsupport.org, and click on Events.
From Page One
founded a boarding school for black boys that later became the renowned Tuggle Institute.
The Kiwanis Club of Birmingham annually selects business leaders to honor who have exemplified strong leadership and made extraordinary contributions to the Greater Birmingham area. To date, the club has inducted 147 Birmingham business leaders into the Hall of Fame, according to a press release from the club. Those honored can be living or deceased.
James W. Sloss, according to the rich details in his biography on the Sloss Furnaces website, became involved in railroads in the 1850s.
Fifteen years later, after the Civil War, he was president of the Nashville and Decatur line. It was during this postwar period that Sloss became one of the chief proponents of Alabama’s industrial development, leading to the railroad deal that led to Birmingham’s founding.
“Anxious to tap the rich mineral resources surrounding Birmingham, Sloss, along with fellow Birmingham promoters Henry DeBardeleben and James Aldrich, acquired 30,000 acres and formed the Pratt Coal and Coke Company,” the biography says.
“Pratt soon became the largest mining enterprise in the district. In the early 1880s, with the backing of Henry DeBardeleben, Sloss founded the Sloss Furnace Company, and two years later ‘blew-in’ the second blast furnace in Birmingham. Called City Furnaces, the plant was at the eastern edge of downtown, at the intersection of two major railroads. The majority of Sloss pig iron ended up in Cincinnati, Louisville, Chicago, and Cleveland. Pig iron costs in Northern plants averaged $18.30 per ton in 1884 while pig iron in the South could be produced for $10 to $11 a ton. By the 1880s, Birmingham was booming and had earned the nickname The
Sloss retired in 1886 and sold the company to a group of financiers who guided it through a period of rapid expansion. The company reorganized in 1899 as Sloss-Sheffield Steel and Iron, but it never made steel, the biography says. With the acquisition of furnaces and extensive mineral lands in northern Alabama, Sloss-Sheffield became the second largest merchant pig iron company in the Birmingham District.
James W. Sloss continued to be interested in iron and steel-making until his death in 1890. Praising Sloss, an obituary in the national trade journal, “Iron Age,” stressed “his farseeing discernment, indomitable energy and modern ideas.”
Sloss Furnaces today is a National Historic Landmark, so designated in 1981. It opened as a museum two years later and has a collection consisting of two 400-ton blast furnaces and about 40 other buildings.
James W. Sloss’s descendants, grandson A. Page Sloss Sr. and great-grandson Arthur Page “Pete” Sloss, inherited their ancestor’s entrepreneurial spirit, only in their field of real estate.
A. Page Sloss Sr. started his real estate company in 1920, according to the Sloss Real Estate website. He was about 25 years old at the time. His son, A. Page “Pete” Sloss, Jr., born in 1925, joined the business after serving in World War II and in Korea.
Among his early projects were neighborhood housing developments in Titusville, Homewood and Mountain Brook, all needed in post-war Birmingham, according to his obituary published in August 2019.
Sloss father and son then focused more on commercial real estate, further developing Five Points West, the first shopping center in Alabama. They bought and developed properties in Birmingham and Laredo and Eagle Pass, Texas.
When A. Page Sloss died in 1974, Pete Sloss’s daughter Cathy Sloss-Jones joined the business, the obituary said. Over the next 40 years, they built and developed an impressive portfolio of iconic properties in Birmingham, including Ridge Park, Park Place, One Federal Place, the Young and Vann Building and the historic landmark district known as Pepper Place.
Pete Sloss served on the board of Sloss Furnaces and the Southern Museum of Flight before his death at 93 in 2019.
Today, Pete’s daughter, Sloss-Jones, is president and CEO of Sloss Real Estate.
While the Sloss family has had a major impact on Birmingham since the city’s founding, the 2023 Kiwanis Business Hall of Fame inductees also include three other leaders. Dr. Will Ferniany, Odessa Woolfolk and the late Carrie A. Tuggle were singled out for outstanding achievements in their fields.
Ferniany, who was chief executive officer of the UAB Health System and the UAB/ Ascension St. Vincent’s Alliance, retired in January 2022, according to his LinkedIn profile. As CEO of the alliance, he oversaw a $5 billion, 11-hospital health system.
During Ferniany’s tenure as CEO, the UAB Health System grew from five hospitals to 11, with revenues expanding from $2.3 billion in 2008 to more than $5.8 billion.
Woolfolk, one of the founders and founding board chair of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, is a former educator and renowned civil rights and community leader.
Born in Birmingham, she graduated from Talladega College and went on to earn a master’s degree in urban studies from Occidental College. She completed graduate studies at the University of Chicago and Yale University, where she was a National Urban Fellow, accord-
ing to the Alabama Academy of Honor website.
She was a teacher at the former Ullman High School in the midst of the civil rights movement and later pursued a career in public policy. She joined the faculty of UAB in 1972 as director of its Center for Urban Affairs, then held other positions there until she retired in 1993.
In the late 1980s, Woolfolk began working toward the creation of a civil rights museum in Birmingham, which opened in 1993 as the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
Tuggle, founder of the Tuggle Institute, now Tuggle Elementary School, was born in Eufaula in 1858, according to the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame website. She and her husband came to Birmingham at the turn of the 20th century and over the next 20 years, the mother of four excelled in the areas of education, social work and religion.
She was working with delinquent boys and as a welfare officer when she conceived the idea of providing housing facilities for orphaned black children. At first children lived in her home, but by 1903 she and her supporters had raised enough funding to open a one-building school and residence for homeless black boys in western Birmingham’s Enon Ridge neighborhood.
Tuggle Institute grew and was highly regarded in the early 20th century. The late Birmingham businessman A.G. Gaston and jazz great Erskine Hawkins were among its graduates. In 1926 the school became affiliated with Birmingham city schools.
As a result of her work as a welfare officer, which involved appearances in the courtroom, Tuggle was instrumental in the formation of the Jefferson Couty Juvenile and Domestic Court, the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame website said.
Tuggle, who also worked for women’s suffrage, died in 1924 and is buried on the grounds of the school named in her honor.
Birmingham’s best mixologists competed for the top prize at the 2023 Magic City Cocktail Challenge to benefit the American Cancer Society on Aug. 3.
Iron City was the setting as competitors vied to create the Best Cocktail in Birmingham and guests sampled the signature creations. The evening also featured live entertainment and activities, including a silent auction.
The community also nominated and selected eleven young professionals to serve as the 2023 Shaker Honorees: Lauren Cave, Cole Clark, Darry Freeman, Mary Haddow, Madeline Harrison, Paige Jacoby, Patrick Massey, Mary Frances Robertson, Logan Sanderson, Emma Wells Strait and Ellie Wolter.
The Shaker of the year was awarded to Paige Jacoby, who raised over $10,000 for the American Cancer Society.
Winner of the 2023 Best Cocktail in Birmingham: “The Ramblin’ Rose” by Cameron Lapierre at Parkside on Fifth. The 2023 Tastemaker Award went to “Guava Trove” by Austin Yates at Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
The annual event brings participants and volunteers together to honor cancer survivors and spread the word about reducing cancer risk. Proceeds raise money to benefit the society’s research, programs and initiatives. ❖
The families of four-legged friends gathered at Cahaba Brewing to celebrate with the Greater Birmingham Humane Society at its first alumni reunion on July 29.
Guests included people who have adopted a pet, are thinking of adopting or just love animals. The familyfriendly afternoon included kids’ activities and free pet photos.
The event emphasized the incredible impact of pet ownership on individuals and families. ❖
Partygoers took a trip 40 years into the past for an ‘80s Night celebration marking the 80th birthday of Birmingham caterer Kathy G. Mezrano at Iron City on July 30.
Mezrano, owner of Kathy G Catering, wanted her family, friends and colleagues in the industry to join her for a fun ‘80s themed party with music by US Band and dancing. About 150 people enjoyed the event, which included a photo booth to capture the evening’s memories.
“Kathy G,” as she’s known, is a longtime Birmingham icon whose catering company has supplied the food for a myriad of parties and events in the area. Her company also caters the food at The Gardens Cafe at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. ❖
Selected. Tailored. Blended.
Lawn games in a festive atmosphere enlivened the evening at the Lift Your Spirits fundraiser for Community Grief Support at Vestavia Country Club on July 27.
Guests were treated to a buffet and signature cocktails. Activities included dancing to music from a DJ, along with silent and live auctions featuring merchandise, artwork, and travel and dining experiences.
The annual event focuses on restoring hope and light to grieving people. ❖
The glittering lights of Birmingham seen from atop Red Mountain provided the backdrop for Positive Maturity’s Top 50 Over 50 awards dinner at The Club on July 27.
Older adults who found opportunities to make a difference were honored at the annual event, which was sold out. Dinner, dessert and a cash bar were featured, while jazz artist Eric Essix, a 2019 Top 50 Over 50 recipient, provided entertainment for the evening.
Positive Maturity serves older adults in Jefferson, Shelby, Blount and Walker counties. Its mission is to enhance the lives of older adults through social services and civic engagement. ❖
Accented with a South of the Border theme, a fiesta-style fundraiser was held for supporters of Terrific New Theatre at the Mountain Brook home of Thom Satterfield on July 22.
Satterfield has been on stage in more than a dozen TNT productions in the past 20 years and served as its board president for eight years.
Los Amigos, a Huntsville-based
mariachi band, welcomed guests on the courtyard. Taco Mama provided plenty of food from its menu, starting with margaritas, guacamole, queso and tortilla chips.
Among the guests were Rose Ann and Rod Kendrick, Paul Odom, Heath Battles, Kerry King, Bryan Shubert, Daniel Richey, Caroline Shatten, Wayne Ingram, Jackie
Brown, Roger Gallant, John and Brenda Allred, Jim Barron, Hannah Hatton, Bruce Beaird, Joe Pate, Edith Hunt, Susan Wiley, Fifi Twitty, Betty Diggs, Gerard Jenkowski, Philip Pieper, Robert Noah, Maggie Grubb, Pat Satterfield, Chris Dudchock, John Martin, Kristin Staskowski and Tam DeBolt, who is TNT’s executive director. ❖
ROAR hosted its inaugural Southern Cookout event at the Stephens Farm near Bessemer on July 30.
The BBQ for the Cure was a fundraiser for ROAR, the acronym for Radiation Oncology Accelerated Research, which since 2009 has raised money for cancer research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
The event was hosted by ROAR President Mona Stephens and her husband, Jimmie Stephens. Attendees included Jabo and Marilyn Waggoner, Yvonne and Randy Albaugh, Kim Bunn, Donna and Kelly Conklin, Tommy Hudson and Cathy Pilcher
Other attendees were Charlie Waldrep, Gene and Pam Smith, Michael Davis, Ken and Ann Horne, Deane Giles, Tom and Suzette Fisher, and Dr. Robert and Julie Kim ❖
STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS AND ENDOWMENT FUNDS
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Rewarding and investing in innovations of nursing practice.
Kirkwood by the River’s new Hillside Residences is a culmination of over 40 years of experience, featuring state-of-the-art spaces for assisted living and memory care.
• Spacious studio and one-to-two-bedroom apartments
• Dining areas with filtered, natural light
• Veranda with stunning river views
• Cultural arts center
Beautiful, secure courtyard
By June Mathews
A fourth-generation, family-owned business mainly serving Vestavia Hills, Hoover and Mountain Brook, Taylor Burton designs, builds and renovates homes. The Warrior remodel differed from the company’s typical project, not only in location but in other ways, too.
When the Taylor Burton team first laid eyes on what would ultimately become its 2023 award-winner, it had already failed to attract the interest of any remodelers in the Tuscaloosa
area, and it didn’t look like a promis ing project for Taylor Burton, either.
The driving distance alone was a deterrent for an Over the Mountain remodeling crew accustomed to work ing closer to home, and the condition of the building was worlds away from what the homeowners dreamed it could be. So the preliminary site visit initially appeared to be a waste of time.
“When we first saw it, it didn’t look like a home,” project manager Zach Burton said. “It wasn’t function al, and it didn’t meet the needs of the owners. But after talking with them about some of their ideas and looking at the plans they’d had drawn up by an out-of-state designer, we saw the potential to make it into something great.”
What the owners had in mind, said Burton, was a modern home with somewhat of a commercial look and feel that at the same time was warm and welcoming. So the owners and remodeling team began to bounce some ideas back and forth, and the creative sparks began to fly.
“The owners were fun to work with because they had some really creative ideas, and they loved hearing our ideas,” Burton said. “The whole process took on a collaborative
nature, which made it a really satisfying experience for everybody.”
Originally a commercial office building, the 1970s structure no doubt needed upgrading but while highlighting its existing assets and showcasing the spectacular views of the river. A
strategic combination of stained sapele wood, black stone, stucco and wall-to-wall glass around the perimeter makes for a striking exterior appearance. A soaring 18-foot tall, 1,100-square-foot foyer addition provides a smooth transition into an
existing area, creating a successful melding of the old with the new. An accent art wall serves as a focal point.
Another accent wall, this one in the dining room, features tropical island stone surrounded by white oak tambor cabinetry. The nearby
1970s-style kitchen was expanded and redone to include a bronze coated range hood, quartz countertops and a seamless hidden pantry.
One of the most dramatic features of the house is in the guest room,
‘When we first saw it, it didn’t look like a home. It wasn’t functional, and it didn’t meet the needs of the owners.’
ZACH BURTON, TAYLOR BURTON PROJECT MANAGER
If you’re considering updating your home, you may wonder what updates will give you the best return on your investment. For younger homeowners a place to work may be most desirable. Older homeowners are looking for less maintenance work and updates to make their ‘retirement home’ safer.
No matter what age the homeowner, owning a home takes work. But, who has the time?
Consider why regular maintenance makes a difference though: Property Value and Safety for older adults.
That’s why Trublue was established. Their mission is to help homeowners save money and time. A home will deteriorate quicker if it’s not continuously maintained. Mold spreads. Rotten deck boards can end up collapsing a wider area. A trained technician can help a homeowner avoid large repair bills over time.
There are two trends that are changing the type of work Trublue technicians now do.
As younger workers seek more opportunities, they move more frequently than generations past. If you plan to sell anytime in the near future, home maintenance can make all the difference in the price you receive. It could mean thousands of dollars in your pocket. Nobody pays top dollar for wobbly rails or cabinets with loose hinges.
Updates for those who work at home are also highly requested now. Quiet, efficient working space becomes more valuable if working in the same area where other family members are com-
ing and going.
From adding glass doors to improve visibility and quiet to assembling new office furniture, a lot of homeowners are converting rooms, with Trublue’s help, to set up a nice place to work.
Trublue also offers a subscription-based Home Maintenance Service for busy workers and retirees. A handyman technician visits monthly or quarterly, much like a lawn service, to do general home maintenance projects such as changing filters, light bulbs, and batteries, or moving and installing seasonal décor. Home Maintenance Services start at $199 a month or $275 quarterly.
A super trend right now is for older home-
owners to plan on staying in their home for the rest of their life rather than move to a nursing home.
The problem is that as with aging comes balance and mobility issues. It starts small but the likelihood of a fall grows with age. In fact, the number one cause of injury to seniors is from a fall. The statistics listed by the Council on Aging indicate that 25% of those over 65 will fall in any year and 1/3 of those injuries can result in hospitalization for bone fractures, head trauma and worse.
Prevention is the key to living a long and successful life in your own home. Nobody plans to fall, but fall prevention can make the difference. Why not prepare now to make your home safer for the long haul?
These are just a few updates that Trublue clients request to make life at home so much easier:
• Change out door knobs and faucets for levers (arthritis makes it harder to turn those knobs)
• Add grab bars in places such as the bathroom or even the top of the stairs
• Add non-slip treds in the bathtub and on steps
• Lower counters, shelves and clothes rods to make it easier to reach
• Convert a bathtub to a walk-in shower or step-in tub. For less than $1000 you can update that bathroom and make it a whole lot easier to get in and out.
• Tape down rugs or move rugs and furniture that can cause falls.
• Repair wobbly deck and stair rails or add a second stair rail so that a person descending can hold on to both sides.
• Widen doorways to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs
• Technology such as motion sensor lighting, video doorbells provide cheap and easy monitoring solutions.
Trublue can even do a home safety inspection and provide a free report with recommendations to help you assess the safety of your own home or the home of someone you love.
For more information on either Home Maintenance Services or Senior Safety Services contact Trublue of Birmingham at 205-839-3818. http://trubluehousecare.com/ birmingham
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where two large openings provide an infinity view effect from either side of the main living area. To provide privacy when the guest room is in use, two 400pound, handcrafted mahogany doors are mounted on a concealed roller system for ease of movement.
Overall, said Burton, what could have been a stark division between old and new became a comfortable blend of the two, as well as a “really cool space” for the homeowners.
“This is a project like we’ve never done before, and it’s something we’re really proud of,” he said. “The owners had put a lot of thought into what they wanted, and they made it fun. And, of course, the fact that they’re happy with it makes us happy, too.”
The Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards competition was founded by the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Remodelers to bring recognition to Alabama’s remodeling professionals. To make it a truly statewide competition,
the GBAHB turned the awards over to the Home Builders Association of Alabama Remodelers in 2008.
The AREA competition celebrates the best of remodeling craftsmanship, innovation and attention to detail and is open to remodeling industry professionals throughout the state.
The 1970s-style kitchen was expanded and redone to include a bronze coated range hood, quartz countertops and a seamless hidden pantry.
To: Dean
From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646
Date: Aug. 7, 2023
Please email approval
changes.
Five Events Will Highlight Birmingham’s First FOOD+Culture Festival
You won’t see one of the driving forces behind the FOOD+Culture festival in a chef’s toque – but Leigh Sloss-Corra wears several other hats.
By Donna CorneliusTickets are now on sale for the firstever Birmingham FOOD+Culture Festival, set for Oct.12-15.
The festival will feature five signature events over four days, including more than 10 dinners, an amplified farmers market experience and more than 50 featured chefs, mixologists, brewers, pit masters and such. The fun will be spread out over venues around the city, primarily at Pepper Place and Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark.
Launched with a reveal party in October 2022, the inaugural FOOD+Culture Fest will bring together food lovers, chefs, farmers, food makers, artisans and storytellers – from Birmingham and beyond – to share the community’s unique flavors and cultural vibrancy.
The cornerstone event of the weekend is FOOD+Fire: The Great Southern Tailgate, presented by Southern Living. On the menu for this event are pit masters and chefs from restaurants known for their barbecue or live-fire cooking, including Acre, Saw’s BBQ, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Ovenbird, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, Archibald and Woodrow’s BBQ, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, Buxton Hall Barbecue, Hero Doughnuts & Buns and Gus’s Hot Dogs.
“Birmingham deserves a world class food festival, and we’re thrilled to be a part of this one,” said Sid Evans, editor-in-chief of Southern Living, which is headquartered in Birmingham. “We’re also excited to celebrate two things our hometown is known for – tailgate culture and live-fire cooking.”
Another special happening is a luncheon called FOOD+Flair: Changing the Menu. It will be presented by the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier, an organization for women in food, beverage and hospitality. The host/emcee is Toni Tipton-Martin, a food and nutrition journalist who’s the author of several cookbooks. The editor-in-chief for Cook’s Country, she received
Taste of Hoover: This Year’s Annual Event Offers More Than 20 Food Vendors
the Julia Child Award in 2021 and two James Beard awards. Top Chef winner Kelsey Barnard Clark of Dothan also will appear at the luncheon.
Here’s a rundown of the special events that will be high points of the festival:
FOOD+Flair: Changing the Menu (Oct. 12): a seated, multi-course luncheon at The Haven celebrating an all-star lineup of women chefs; $85.
FOOD+Frank (Oct. 12): the presentation of the inaugural Frank Stitt Award for Industry Excellence, which this year goes to the iconic chef himself and in the future will honor other recipients; at the Birmingham Museum of Art; $75.
FOOD+Heritage (Oct. 13): a seated dinner in the streets of Pepper Place celebrating Black culture, cuisine and the influence the community has had on Alabama’s foodways, with guest chefs and presenters from around the Southeast; $150.
FOOD+Farmers (Oct. 14): an amplified farmer’s market at Pepper Place, including a book fair featuring cookbook authors and food-focused reads, several chef demos, participating chefs from the festival setting up stations and giving out samples, and an emphasis on healthy eating and healthy living. No tickets are needed, and the event is free to the public.
FOOD+Fire: The Great Southern Tailgate (Oct. 14): presented by Southern Living; a walkaround tasting event at Sloss Furnaces celebrating the barbecue community, live-fire cooking and Southern tailgate culture. Highlights include live music, a Southern Living demo stage, regional and local breweries and giant screens to watch live college football; $75.
FOOD+Funk Brunch (Oct. 15): biscuits, brass and Bloody Marys, featuring pastry chefs, bakers, mixologists and New Orleans’ Grammy Award-winning Rebirth Brass Band; special guests include Birmingham’s Martie Duncan, cookbook author and Food Network Star finalist, and Chadwick Boyd, a food and lifestyle expert; $75.
FOODIE NEWS Tickets will go on sale Aug. 28 for Taste of Hoover 2023, the annual celebration of the variety of culinary styles found throughout the city.
The event will be at Aldridge Gardens on Oct. 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature more than 20 restaurants, caterers and specialty food shops, and half a dozen beverage suppliers, according to the gardens’ website.
Tickets are $45 for Aldridge Gardens members and $50 for nonmembers.
FOOD+Friends (Oct. 12-15): public dinners around Birmingham, featuring surprise pop-up menus from visiting guest chefs in participating restaurants, celebrating comradery in the culinary industry; unticketed
While all of the signature events feature “FOOD+” in the title, food isn’t the only thing that will make the festival sing. FOOD+Fire will feature musical guests including Arlo McKinley, a talented singer-songwriter who was discovered by and signed to John Prine’s Indie Record Label; the Sensational Barnes Brothers, a Memphisbased gospel and soul band; and New Orleans’ own J and The Causeways, an R&B/soul ensemble featuring heavy backbeats and a soaring horn section.
On Sunday at FOOD+Funk, the Grammywinning Rebirth Brass Band will bring the funk at the Sloss Furnaces Water Tower.
“Along with the amazing curated culinary elements of the festival, we found it important to recognize that music is a bridge that connects all cultures,” said Keri Lane, FOOD+Culture festival production director. “We’re excited to create an event that not only celebrates our city’s culinary talent but also offers programming and live music for everyone to enjoy at some of Birmingham’s most unique, incredible venues.”
In the spirit of celebrating Birmingham’s robust restaurant scene, FOOD+Friends pop-up dinners will take place leading up to and during the weekend’s festivities. These dining experiences are not ticketed and will be held in participating restaurants around the city, allowing all of Birmingham to get a taste of FOOD+Culture festivities. Guests may attend these dinners by making a reservation or walking in (depending on the restaurant) on the evening of the restaurant’s participation, which will be announced soon.
For more information and to buy tickets for the events, visit bhamfoodplus.com.
Eateries and caterers expected to participate include Merks Tavern at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham, The Happy Catering Co., Michelle’s Chocolate Lab, Tre Luna Catering/Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen, East 59 Cafe & Catering, The Whole Scoop Ice Cream Shop, K & J’s Elegant Pastries and Creamery, Twin Peaks Restaurant and Ann’s All-Around Town Catering. Also, Jambo Grill, Savoie Catering, Superchix, Jefferson State Community College, Pazzo Pizza, 1918 Catering,
She’s president of the Les Dames d’Escoffier International’s Birmingham chapter and executive director of The Market at Pepper Place. She’s also vice president of FOOD+Culture’s board of directors, and her enthusiasm for the festival bubbles over like shaken-up champagne.
“The theme for the market is ‘local is better,’ and that’s also a theme for the whole city,” she said. “Our food community reflects the many different tastes and personalities of each of us. That’s why our festival will be so much fun – and, we think, better than many similar events.”
FOOD+Culture’s roots are in another major food-focused event held in Birmingham.
“The festival is a result of planning and experiencing the International Association of Culinary Professionals conference here in Birmingham in 2021,” Sloss-Corra said. “We were very, very involved with planning and executing that conference. People came from Germany, Canada, Ireland – all over. They said they never realized how incredible Birmingham was.
“After the success of the IACP conference, we knew having our own festival would be worth the effort.”
Sloss-Corra is a Birmingham native who moved away from her hometown and then returned with a greater appreciation for all the city has to offer – and how much it’s changed. Chefs Frank Stitt and Chris Hastings got the culinary party started, and today, they’re still shining stars of the local restaurant scene. But others have come along to help make Birmingham a real destination for food lovers.
“Now, we have a wide variety of chefs and restaurants,” Sloss-Corra said. “Many other places can’t deliver as many different dining experiences as we can. We have a huge craft beer scene and incredible cocktail bars. We have an abundance of riches.”
Taziki’s, The Casual Pint at the Grove, Big Whiskey’s, Rock N Roll Sushi, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, and Pihakis Restaurant Group’s Hero Doughnuts and Little Donkey.
Beverages will be provided by Temper Coffee, Brock’s Gap Brewing Company, Dread River Distilling Co., CocaCola United, Chattanooga Whiskey and Baba Java Coffee.
For tickets and more information about Taste of Hoover, go to aldridgegardens.com.
When the Alabama High School Athletic Association Central Board of Control recently voted to sanction girls flag football as a championship sport beginning with the 2024-25 and 2025-26 classification periods, it was welcomed news for the coaches at Hoover and Vestavia Hills.
“It means a lot,” Hoover coach Sabrina Jemison said. “It’s giving girls an opportunity to play something they enjoy and a chance to develop something great.”
“I think it’s a great move,” Vestavia Hills coach Debra Broome said. “Girls had longed to play football. Growing up, a lot of them played in the yard with boys.
“Flag football is a fast-paced game and so much fun. The girls run some of the same schemes and plays that boys do, and they’re getting to enjoy the benefits of playing on a team and the camaraderie.”
Flag Football, beginning its third year in the AHSAA this season, was boosted originally by the NFL’s support, especially the Atlanta Falcons. Currently 89 schools have declared girls’ flag football for the 2023 season.
The board also approved creating two classifications in each sport, Class
1A-5A and Class 6A-7A.
“I think that’s better,” Jemison said. “A lot of times, the smaller schools don’t have as many girls as the larger schools, so breaking up the classes will be great.”
Two girls’ flag tournament championship games will be played this year at the AHSAA Super 7 Championships at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Dec. 6 at BryantDenny Stadium in Tuscaloosa.
Last season, when all the schools were grouped together, both Hoover and Vestavia Hills reached the semifinals.
Two of Hoover’s players, Kendall Anderson and Faith Daughtry, signed to play in college at Milligan University, a NAIA school in Tennessee. Anderson was linebacker and Daughtry was a cornerback/wide receiver.
The Bucs will have several new players this season.
“Each year we’ve had a lot of turnover,” Jemison said. “We have some girls who decide not to come back and others who are two-sport girls and decide to stick with the sport they will be getting a scholarship in.”
Bella Paradise and Taylor Kindred will share the quarterback position for the Bucs this season, but Jemison said, “We’re definitely looking to see a few
freshman girls grow in that spot.”
Because of the hot weather, Hoover won’t open the season until Sept. 27 at home with a tri-match against Smiths Station and Center
Point.
The Bucs will play in Class 6A-7A Area 9 with Oak Mountain and Helena.
“It’s going to be a tough ride,” Jemison said. “I’m interested to see how it turns out. I’m getting our girls ready to play against anybody and play to our best.”
Vestavia Hills will play in Class 6A-7A Area 10 with Mountain Brook and Spain Park.
The Rebels will have a new quar-
terback with the graduation of Ella Gallaspy. Her twin sister, Abby, a linebacker, was also on the team.
“We’ll have a new quarterback, sophomore Julia Rose,” Broome said. “I think she’s going to be really good.
“We’ve got some good young talent, including a couple of freshmen. We also had two seniors come out, Maddie Hunsburger and Ari Katigbak.”
The Rebels will open their season Aug. 29 at Center Point.
Bham Now and Vulcan Imaging Associates are hosting Disc Golf Goes Pink, a Professional Disc Golf Association-sanctioned disc golf tournament raising funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama.
The event will take place Sept. 9 at two disc golf courses in Calera –Oliver Park and George W. Roy Recreational Park.
Disc Golf Goes Pink promises to be a day filled with competition and camaraderie while supporting a vital cause.
All funds raised will stay in Alabama and contribute to life-saving breast cancer research, making a significant impact on the lives of those affected by the disease.
“It’s been great to connect disc golfers from across the region and collectively make a real difference in the fight against breast cancer,” Beth Davis, BCRFA president and CEO, said. “We hope folks will join us again as we pave the way for advancements in treatment and prevention of a disease that affects so many.”
Tournament check-in starts at 7:30 a.m. Participants will play 36 holes across two courses, with one round in the morning and one in the afternoon.
The second round will start one hour after the completion of the first round.
Awards will be presented in all categories with at least three players. Players can also donate for a chance to win the Ace Pot. The winner of the pot will split proceeds 50/50 with the BCRFA. In the case of a tie, a throwoff will be held at the end of tournament play.
Registration is $45 and includes a
player’s pack with a disc, event swag and other items. For more details or to register, visit bcrfa.org/events. Registration closes Sept. 8 at noon, but early registration, by Aug. 15, is encouraged as player’s packs are limited and given out based on registration date.
Last year, more than 100 players from across the region attended and raised $7,000.
From page 24
could get back on top in 2023.
They turned to an old Under Armour commercial in which Phelps says, “It’s what you do in the dark that puts you in the light.”
“That’s been our focus during the offseason,” Gardner said. “We wanted to bring that to the forefront of our minds.”
The Spartans also stepped up their skill training, put a nutrition plan in place and brought in a strength and conditioning coach to improve their stamina.
“We’ve had a great offseason,” Gardner said. “It started in the spring and continued during the summer. We participated in all the team camps and the power league during nights at the
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against James Clemens, where Wood was head coach before coming to Hoover, and Daphne. The Bucs will compete in Class 7A, Area 5 along with Vestavia Hills, Thompson and Tuscaloosa County.
Wood liked what she saw from her team during the offseason. The Bucs officially opened preseason practice on Monday. She believes they can make another deep postseason run.
The Spartans return six seniors from last year’s team, which finished with a 38-17 record. “Six seniors is a big number for us,” Gardner said. “We had only three last year.”
Among the six are three 2022 AllOTM players — middle hitters Alice Garzon and Mae Mae Lacey, and setter Hannah Parant. The others are Lacey’s twin sister Annie, a right side player; Parant’s twin sister, Paige, an outside hitter; and Ava Gillis, a libero.
“I feel like senior classes will make or break the culture of your team,” Gardner said. “Our group of seniors are totally invested in the team. They are servant oriented and are doing a great job of servant leadership with the younger players who are now to the varsity. They are doing a good job of wrapping their arms around them and bringing them along.”
Junior outside hitter Mae Mae Beatty expects to play a significant role this season along with defensive specialist Ella Kate Wright.
Junior Grace Stewart will spell Hannah Parant some at setter. Two other juniors, setter Lulu Bateh and Julianne Malatesta, a middle hitter/ opposite hitter; sophomores Samantha Settle, a middle blocker, and Ava Ruth Borland, outside hitter; and freshman outside hitter Maddie Walter round out the roster.
“I think Maddie is the first freshman to make varsity since Hannah (Parant) was a freshman,” Gardner said. “I think that says a lot about her and a lot about how good our team has been.”
Mountain Brook will open the season on Aug. 24 at home against Spanish Fort. They will compete in Class 6A, Area 10 along with Pell City, Shades Valley and Woodlawn.
“We’re getting better every day,” Wood said. “I can’t be more proud of the way they’re responding to the new expectations.”
“I think we will have a great serve and pass team and great serve and receive team,” Gardner said. “You can have great hitters and a great setter, but it doesn’t matter if you don’t serve and pass well.
“The goal is always the same: to
win a state championship. But what I want is more steadiness. Last year, we went through ups and downs and highs and lows. I want us to think about what our base standard is and play to it, no matter who we’re playing or how tired we might be.”
Defensive specialist Sydney Durban is one of 10 juniors on the team.
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The Mountain Brook volleyball team has adopted a motto from gold medal-winning swimmer Michael Phelps in its hopes to reclaim the state championship.
The Spartans saw their bid for a third consecutive Class 6A title in 2022 end in a semifinal loss to Bayside Academy. Bayside went on to capture its national record 21st consecutive title across six classifications.
“We fell short,” Mountain Brook coach Mattie Gardner said. “We didn’t handle it well.”
So Gardner, entering her third season as the Spartans’ head coach, met with her assistants to see how they
2023 OTM High School Football Special Issue!
Amanda Wood won’t be managing expectations, but her own vexation as she enters her second season as Hoover’s volleyball coach.
The Bucs graduated nine of its 13 players from the 2022 team, which reached the Class 7A quarterfinals and finished with a 35-17 record, earning Wood OTM Coach of the Year honors in her first season.
When the 2023 season starts later this month, Hoover will have a lot of new faces on the court and no doubt will experience some growing pains.
“We lost a lot of experienced players, but we still expect to compete on a high level,” Wood said. “The goal for myself is to remain patient and keep reminding myself we’re getting better every day. I have to remind myself so I don’t get frustrated.”
Among Hoover’s four returning players are three seniors — middle hitter Kenzie Richards, outside hitter Kendyl Mitchell and right side Grace Johnston. Richards and Mitchell were both voted to the 2022 All-OTM team.
“With nine seniors last year, they kind of let them lead, but this year they have stepped into the leadership role,” Wood said of Richards, Mitchell and Johnston. “All three have stepped up the way I wanted, not just in the big things, but they’re doing the small things right, too.”
Defensive specialist Sydney Durban is one of 10 juniors on the team. She is the younger sister of former Hoover standout Aly Durban. All but
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so we have competitive practices.
“We’re really big. We’ve got several blockers and four defensive players. I’m very excited to see how we develop.”
The Bucs have to replace All-OTM setter Maggie Harris.
Juniors Addison Bentley and Madi Lopez are competing for the spot. “Both of our new setters are talented,”
Hoover will open the season Aug. 24 at home with a tri-match
Sydney Durban and Kayla Terrell, a transfer from Helena, played on the Bucs’ junior varsity last season. counting on all of them,” Wood said. “I’m really excited. We’ve so many talented kids to plug in. We don’t have a set lineup, Wood said.‘We lost a lot of experienced players, but we still expect to compete on a high level.’