OTMJ 10.20.22

FRESH IDEAS

Birmingham Home & Garden’s Inspiration Home in Vestavia Hills offers latest home design trends

20

SPOOKY FUN 4 ABOUT TOWN 6 NEWS 8

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF LIFE Centenarian was around for WWII and the start of Southern Living, fueled creation of Cahaba River Society PAGE 25

Murphy’s Law

The Cinderella Moment

Mygrandchildren chose their Halloween costumes weeks ago because, like everything else, if you don’t grab them when they first appear in the store, you don’t get what you want. You could end up being Aquaman or one of the lesser princesses, or (shudder) no princess at all.

Kids love to dress up. Watch a little girl put on an Elsa dress. It’s transfor mative.

When we grow up, we somehow forget that. On a recent cruise, there were two nights designated as “dressy.” The cruise director backed down from calling the nights “galas” as history showed that most of the passengers were going to come in at a bit less than that.

Sue Murphy

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 October 20, 2022

Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald

Copy Editor: Virginia Martin

Features Writer: Donna Cornelius

Staff Writer: Anne Ruisi

Photographer: Jordan Wald

Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant

Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch

Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd

Vol. 33, No. 6

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2022 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Not everyone, though. Some passengers brought out all available sparkles and channeled their inner Cinderella and Prince Charming. The photographers wisely swooped in with backdrops and lighting. The rest of the stodgy steerage people (me included) were obviously less likely to buy the “have it all” photo package, given that we dressed up as little as we could get away with, and who wants to remember that?

These days, I will wear pantyhose if I absolutely have to, but I’m never excited about it.

When I was younger, I thought dressing up was fun. Being a bridesmaid or ringing in the new year wearing something glittery was kind of like Halloween for grownups.

When you become a mom, there are fewer built-in dress up occasions, so you must create your own. Need to raise revenue for your school? Committed to funding the fight against serious health issues? Want to save the (insert name of animal here)? I know! Let’s have a ball (literally), create an evening of glitter and glamour the likes of which this school gymnasium has never seen.

Over the Mountain Views

It all sounds magical on paper, but the night of the event, I found myself cramming my usually tennis-shoed feet into sparkly sandals that would most certainly give me blisters and the rest of my body into undergarments whose job it was to squish my work-a-day flesh into considerably less square footage. Halfway through the process, I seriously questioned why I was doing such a thing, but then, there came the Cinderella moment – that instant when I stood back and looked in the mirror, holding my breath (like I had a choice in those Spanx) and saw someone that Prince Charming might actually want to ask for one dance. Of course, my Prince Charming was struggling to tie his tie and sweating and muttering under his breath about how we could have just writ ten a check and avoided the whole shebang, but when he was finally put together, he looked pretty good, too.

At the fundraiser, there was music and dancing, and even though I eventually ditched the pinchy shoes, the magic was still there. Prince Charming didn’t dance much. None of the princes did, but as the night wore on, they were obviously feeling much better as they sat around a table, telling jokes, their ties thrown over the back of the chairs.

The next day, all of the princess committee mem bers were back in our civvies sweeping up the leftover crepe paper and folding up the chairs so the space could be turned back into a lunchroom, but still, somewhere underneath all that mess, a few strains of music remained and we started making plans for the next even “gala-er” gala.

The upcoming holidays will offer occasions when dressing up will be encouraged, and I say go for it. You can deworm the dog tomorrow. For one brief shining moment, be Cinderella. It’s transformative.

Bring on Fall Fun

The city of Vestavia Hills Police and Fire departments hosted a community night out on Oct. 6 for first responders to net work with local busi nesses, civic groups, churches, schools and community volun teers. Violet Watson and Angel Morris, left, were among those enjoying the food, pumpkin patch, jump houses, kids activities and more on the lawn at Vestavia Hills City Hall.

The upcoming holidays will offer occasions when dressing up will be encouraged, and I say go for it.

‘DEATH AND TAXES’

Homewood Public Library returns its theater experience with a funny whodunit

SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR Mountain Brook’s Barlow considers honor a team award

Journal

photo by Jordan Wald

Spooky fun

Fri., Oct. 21

Flicks Among the Flowers

“The Addams Family” film will be screened and there will be a costume contest at this event, which includes food and beverages for sale. $5 donation is suggested. When: 5 p.m., movie at sunset (around 6:30 p.m.) Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens

A Night Dark & Grimm

An all-ages carnival and sing-along character movie at sunset. Games, costumed characters, prizes, crafts, and treats, including “snowball fights,” Sven’s Ice Pull and an Ursula spooky science experiment. When: 6 p.m. Where: O’Neal Library

Oct. 21 & 28

Hocus Pocus

The Halloween favorite film is about a curious youngster who moves to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century. When: 7 p.m. Where: Alabama Theatre

Sat., Oct. 22

Trunk or Treat at Lutheran Church of Vestavia Hills Food, activities, a bounce house and trick or treating for an afternoon of family fun. When: 4-6 p.m. Where: Lutheran Church of Vestavia Hills Haunt the Hills

A costume contest with categories for kids, adults, pets and groups, booths from sponsor businesses, candy and a screening of “Hocus Pocus” are set for this festival organized by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. When: 4 p.m. Where: The Grand Lawn at Wald Park

Sun., Oct 23

Asbury UMC’s Trunk or Treat Games, rides, food trucks and candy will be featured at this event, along with creatively decorated car trunks. When: 4:30-6 p.m. Where: Asbury United Methodist Church

Wed., Oct. 26

Trunk or Treat

Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church holds a Trunk or Treat familyfriendly event. When: 6–8 p.m.

Where: Vestavia UMC parking lot

Homewood Witches Ride Celebrates 10th Anniversary

“Witches” will take to the streets of Homewood Oct. 30 for the 10th annual Homewood Witches Ride, benefiting the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB.

The event regularly draws hundreds of participants, who dress up as witches or in other Halloween costumes to throw candy as they ride their decorat ed brooms, er, bicycles, on a 2.5mile route through Homewood that begins at Central Park. A free after party will be held at Little Donkey restaurant with live music.

The Witches Ride will start at 5:45 p.m., right after the Homewood Fall Festival, which is from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. That city event, presented by Homewood Parks and Recreation, will feature a DJ, inflatables, food trucks and the Homewood High School drum line.

“We didn’t think we’d still be doing this,” event co-chair Janie Ford Mayer said. “We thought we’d tap it out at 10 years, but people keep wanting us to do it.”

The Homewood Witches Ride began as a celebration of the spirit of the fighters and survivors who have battled cancer. It was inspired by Mayer’s mother, Paula Stringfellow Ford, according to its website, uab.edu/ HomewoodWitchesRide.

Mystics Mark 20th Annual Mountain Brook Parade

The spirit of Mardi Gras adapted for All Hallows Eve will mark the annual Mystics of Mountain Brook Halloween Parade on Oct. 31.

The 20th annual family-style Mardi Gras parade usually draws thousands and will wind its way through Crestline. The parade will start at 4 p.m. As in the past, there will be floats and throws to catch.

Traffic will be significantly affected in the Crestline area from about 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., according to an announcement on the City of Mountain Brook website.

Once fencing is placed by Public Works personnel, all parked vehicles and traffic will not be able to move until the conclusion of the parade. The city will notify residents of the parade’s progress.

“We will send out an alert via the “Mountain Brook Police” app at the start and end of the parade,” the announcement said.

Ride on the Wild Side During Zoo’s Halloween Festival

Trick or treat through the Candy Trail, attend the Monster Mash dance party, play games and meet the animals dur ing the Birmingham Zoo’s Hoots & Howls daytime Halloween festival Oct. 22-23 and Oct. 29-30.

The event also includes rides on the Haunted Red Diamond Express Train and Protective Life Cobweb Carousel, chats with animal keepers and other events.

It runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays the last two weekends in October after opening Oct. 15.

The Elephant Keeper Chats will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturdays, the Bongo Keeper Chat will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays, and snake feedings will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

The ambassador animals will be brought out at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. each day to the Henley Lawn, where a mobile library also will be set up at the Chipangali Research Station.

Tickets may be purchased at Birminghamzoo.com/events/Hoots31.

Hoots & Howls wristbands are $10 and include unlimited rides and trips through the Candy Trail. Tickets for one trip through Candy Trail are $3.95, with tickets for rides sold separately. Admission to the zoo also is separate.

Thurs., Oct. 27

Live After 5

Vestavia Hills is holding a familyfriendly fall celebration with music, local vendors, a bounce house, a photo booth and more. When: 5-8 p.m. Where: Vestavia City Center

Sat., Oct. 29

Cahaba Heights Trick or Treat

Trick or Treat with Cahaba Heights businesses all day. When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Cahaba Heights

Ross Bridge Witches Ride

Lineup starts at 10:30 a.m. at The Church parking lot, Witches take flight at 11 a.m. and ends at Hometown Fare for brunch apps and drinks. Tickets are required for all riders and passengers. Prizes awarded for best decorated broom (one bike and one cart) and best dressed witch. Benefits Hope for Autumn Foundation Where: Ross Bridge community.

ArtPlay Family Halloween Party

Family-friendly Halloween event with food, music and other activities. When: 1-4 p.m. Where: ArtPlay

Trunk or Treat Fall Festival

Live music, bounce houses and other family-friendly activities will be at this Children’s Lighthouse of Hoover event. When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Children’s Lighthouse of Hoover

Sun., Oct. 30

Homewood Fall Festival

Homewood Parks and Recreation Fall Festival presents an afternoon of fun, with rides, games, food trucks, a costume contest and more. When: 2-5 p.m. Where: Homewood Central Park

1925 Silent Film Classic Phantom of the Opera

Lon Chaney stars in this adaption of the classic horror tale of the deformed phantom who haunts the Paris Opera House. When: 2 p.m. Where: Alabama Theatre

Bluff Park Witches Ride

Get ready to fly (ride) through the street tossing out cackles and candy.

Witches meet in the park behind Bluff Park Elementary school, “fly” through the neighborhood. and end at the new Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center, where there will be more opportunity for fun, food, drinks, and more.

Benefits The Wellhouse. When: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Mon., Oct. 31

Happy Halloween!

Fri., Oct. 28

Tricks or Treats

Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s 2nd Annual Tricks or Treats event includes spooky tour guides who lead small groups of trick or treaters on a hauntedly fun tour of

the adoption floor on Snow Drive. A donation of pet food for the GBHS Pet Pantry will be required for entry. The event is just for humans. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: Greater Birmingham Humane Society

Trick or Treat Hoover Library

Trick or Treat in the Children’s Department all day. When: 9 a.m.9 p.m. Where: Hoover Library

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

AVAILABLE AT LITTLE HARDWARE LET'S FIND THE GIRLL THAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU

The Big Green Egg is the highest quality, most versatile and simplest-to-use outdoor cooker you’ll ever own.

Looking for a funny brain-teasing experience? You can find it Oct. 21-22 as the Homewood Public Library partners once again with South City Theatre Company for the annual Fall Mystery Theatre.

The library is sponsoring the the ater group’s performance of the play “Death and Taxes,” written by Pat Cook and directed by Thomas Robinson.

In it, a small town experiences a murder, and the mayor turns a regular

‘Death and Taxes’

Homewood Public Library Returns Its Theater Experience With a Funny Whodunit

The EGG is much more than just a grill … it’s a complete outdoor cooking system engineered to be stronger, more durable and provide better heat retention than any other outdoor cooker on the market.

LITTLE HARDWARE

THE

city council meeting into an inquest. The victim is a stranger to town and an employee of the IRS. When a resi dent says, “Somehow I don’t feel that bad!” the sheriff clamps handcuffs on him, making him the prime suspect.

But soon the questioning reveals that the entire city council had seen the man, and each of them seems to be hiding something.

The production is the library’s first in two years, after the pandemic forced the library to cancel its plans, Adult Services Librarian Leslie West said. Snacks and drinks will be

OCT 20 - NOV 3

Through Oct. 21

Watercolor Society of Alabama Exhibition

The 2022 Alabama Member Showcase Exhibition and the city of Vestavia Hills hold a watercolor exhibit of Alabama artists. When: MondayFriday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall

Thurs., Oct 20

Vitaly Beckman: An Evening of Wonders

Blending art and illusion with his captivating style, Vitaly Beckman’s one-of-a-kind theatrical experience retraces his journey from a boy with a dream to a man with a vision. When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Hoover Library

Oct. 20-30

Beehive the Musical

The show highlights songs by women who sang in the 1960s, from Connie Francis to Janis Joplin.

When: Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2:30 p.m. Where: Virginia Samford Theater.

Oct. 21-22

The Music Man

The Meredith Wilson musical will be

Homewood Public Library partners once again with South City Theatre Company for the annual Fall Mystery Theatre. From left, Sarah Coffee, Sally Montgomery, Genni Boatwright and Robin Rushing.

served, but the library will return with its full dinner theater in February, she said.

“The theater programs we do with South City Theatre twice a year are among our signature events here at Homewood Public Library. They are

performed by Simmons Middle School students in Hoover. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for students and free for ages 4 and under and educators with ID. When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Simmons Middle School

Oct. 21-23

Into the Woods Jr.

The show is a new take on Stephen Sondheim’s and James Lapine’s groundbreaking musical fairytale about wishes and the choices we make. When: Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 22 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 23 at 2 p.m. Where: Red Mountain Theatre

very popular. We were all very disap pointed to have to cancel these beloved programs during the pandem ic,” West said.

Tickets to the productions are $25 and can be purchased at homewood publiclibrary.org/mystery-theater.

Sat., Oct. 22

Highlands School Play Date

Play date program for children ages 3-5, with story time, crafts and the opportunity to meet a teacher from the 4K and kindergarten classes. RSVP to admissions@highlandsschool.org. When: 9 a.m. Where: Highlands School

Homewood First Responders 5K

This annual 5K run will raise funds for the Homewood Police Foundation and Homewood Fire Department. The race’s course will wind through downtown Homewood, with officers and firefighters onsite with police and fire vehicles, as well as McGruff the Crime Dog. When: 8-11 a.m. Where: The Trak Shak

“Death and Taxes” is the library’s first production in two years, after the pandemic forced the library to cancel its plans.

BARKTOBERFEST | THURS., OCT 20 Fundraiser for Hand in Paw will feature local beer, fun contests and more to benefit Anna’s Fund, which defrays costs associated with volunteer training and supplies. When: 6-9 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing

Photo by Stephen Ross

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Sun., Oct. 23

Step Up for Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome Alabama will host this annual walk to raise awareness and promote acceptance for those with Down syndrome. Festivities will include live music, food trucks, a family fun zone and more. When: 12:30-4:30 p.m., with walk at 2 p.m. Where: Wald Park Grand Lawn

Thurs., Oct. 27

Friends of the Library

Jason Kirby, archivist for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, will be the speaker, talking about the Apollo 14 Moon Tree Project. When: 10 a.m. Where: Community Room, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest

Casino for a Cause

The Alabama/NW Florida Chapter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation’s 12th annual gala. When: 6 p.m. Where: Haven

Sat., Oct. 29

Megan Montgomery Memorial 5K/Fun Run

The race and Fun Run sponsored by ERA King aim to raise funds for awareness and education in the prevention of domestic violence.

When: 8 a.m. Where: Homewood Central Park

Toss for Hope Corn Hole

Hosted by Full Life Ahead, a nonprofit serving teenagers and young adults with any kind of disability and their families. When: a.m. Where: Hargis Christian Camp in Chelsea.

Raising Our Voices

Raising Our Voices is an innovative movement and storytelling project for individuals impacted by cancer. When: 6 p.m. Where: Sirote Theatre

Tricia’s Treasures Costume Ball

Costume contest, beer, wine and dessert bar provided. $10.00 a person/$15.00 per couple. A Portion of every ticket for Banks Academy. When: 7:30 – Midnight Where: Tricia’s Treasures in Homewood

Wed., Nov. 2

Little Black Dress Fashion Show

Assistance League of Birmingham’s annual fashion show and luncheon includes local vendors, lunch and

MEDICARE EDUCATION CLASS - OCT. 24

A fun, free educational class focused on helping individuals better understand Medicare. Learn what questions to ask, when and how to enroll. When: 5:30 p.m. Where: 2116 Colum biana Rd., 205-704-9020

a fashion show by Town & Country Clothes. When: 10:30 a.m. Where: a private club in Vestavia Hills.

SAVE THE DATE

Nov. 5-6

Moss Rock Festival

This annual festival’s 16th anniversary eco-creative outdoor festival will feature artists, a smart living market, design artisans, nature exhibitors, food, beer garden and more. Festivities will also include live music, a photography exhibition and more. When: Nov. 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Nov. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Hoover Met.

Sun., Nov. 6

Out of Darkness Walk

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Alabama chapter will host the Birmingham walk to raise funds and awareness for the organization’s mission to invest in life-saving research, education, advocacy and support for those impacted by suicide. When: 2:30

p.m. Where: Veterans Park.

Sips for Sound

Benefit with live music featuring The Hams for the Woolley Institute for Spoken-Language Education, which is dedicated to teaching hearingimpaired children to speak. When: 5-8 p.m. Where: Dread River Distilling Company

“every home is unique because every client is unique.”

LET US PLAN & BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME

Superintendent of the Year

By RuBin E. GRant

Dr.

Dicky Barlow had to drive back from a funeral in Atlanta last Friday before he could do an interview with a report er.

It had been a busy week for the Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent with meetings and whatnot.

Among Barlow’s activities was receiving a prestigious award. On Wednesday, School Superintendents of Alabama and Schneider Electric named Barlow the 2023 Alabama Superintendent of the Year. He had been selected as one of nine finalists in September.

“It was a surprise,” Barlow said. “I had gone to a state conference the past week to be inter viewed along with the other finalists. It was the first time I had ever been nominated.

“This is a tremendous honor and would not be possible without the work of all of our teachers, staff members, students and incredible family and community members.”

Barlow represented District 5, which compris es 16 school districts in the central Alabama region.

“I have met a lot of the superintendents across the state,” Barlow said. “They take the job seri ously and love kids. I represent them and District 5.”

After being chosen, Barlow was called up to give a brief acceptance speech.

“They told me don’t go long,” Barlow said with a laugh.

Two days later, he said, “The title of Superintendent of the Year is a misnomer. It’s really the same as a team sport. I work with really phenomenal people and the only way I get this award is because of them.

The Sportsman’s Social and Clay Shoot set for Nov. 3-4 will benefit the Lord Wedgwood Charity, which provides defibrillation devices in strategic community locations and pre-screens young athletes for heart issues.

The social will be Nov. 3, begin ning at 6 p.m. at Iron City in down town Birmingham. It will include a wine tasting from Novi Vineyards and Winery, a bourbon tasting, and live and silent auctions.

The clay shoot will be held Nov. 4 at Orvis Shooting Grounds at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga. There will be two sessions: a morning session that begins at 8:30 a.m. with registration and breakfast and clay shooting at 9 a.m.; and an afternoon session with registration starting at 11 a.m., fol lowed by lunch at 11:30 and clay shooting at 12:30 p.m.

Tickets are $150 for only the Sportsman’s Social and $2,500 per team or $1,250 per couple for the social and the clay shoot. Those plan ning to attend can sign up at the char ity’s website, lordwedgwoodcharity. org.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

“After the announcement, I texted some mem bers of our district leadership team and told them, ‘We won.’ It’s quite an honor, but it’s more than Dicky Barlow.”

Former Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent Dr. Charles Mason also won the award in 2004. He paid tribute to Barlow.

“I cannot imagine a better choice than Dr. Dicky Barlow to represent Alabama School Superintendents as their Superintendent of the Year for 2023,” Mason said. “During his tenure in Mountain Brook Schools, Dr. Barlow has secured the financial status of the school system through a successful tax vote by the citizens, embarked on a

much-needed expansion and renovation of facili ties, and navigated the unprecedented challenges facing superintendents during the COVID pan demic.

“His commitment to the well-being and aca demic success of students, his commitment to ongoing professional learning for all teachers and staff, and his basic goodness as a person are among the many reasons the Mountain Brook community is so fortunate to have him as the leader of their school system.”

Dr. Stephen Russell, a pediatrician who has three children in Mountain Brook schools and another who graduated in 2021, is a friend of Barlow’s. He also sang his praises.

“As an administrator, he’s done a remarkable job negotiating all the changes in education and managing the COVID pandemic,” Russell said. “One of the biggest things he’s done is making a capital investment in improving the school facili ties. He was able to see the benefits of it because it was long overdue.

“As a person, he’s always focused on doing the right thing. He’s man of integrity and he’s consistent, and he’s always doing things in the best interests of others. He’s a great role model, a beacon for others to follow.

“I am not surprised he was named superinten dent of the year. I’m thrilled for him, being recog nized for the great job he’s doing.”

The Alabama Superintendent of the Year com petes to become one of four nationwide finalists; represents Alabama at the AASA’s National Conference on Education in February; and is hon ored at a luncheon during the SSA Legislative Conference in Montgomery, according to the SSA website. Schneider Electric provides the winner with a Superintendent of the Year ring and travel expenses to the national conference.

Taking a Shot at Sudden Heart Attacks

Barlow has been Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent since 2009. Before that, he was principal of Mountain Brook High School from 2001 to 2009 and assistant principal from 1996 to 2001. Before coming to Mountain Brook Schools, Barlow served in a number of positions as an edu cator in Georgia, including assistant principal and student intervention specialist. He taught science and coached basketball and cross-country.

Schools Have Changed

He has seen numerous changes in education in that time, and perhaps the greatest is the demand on teachers and administrators.

“If you take COVID out the of the equation, schools are so much more involved in the lives of their students and asked to do so much more,” Barlow said. “A long time ago, summers were a lot slower and you got a chance to get reinvigo rated, but now summers are busier than ever. We do a lot of training with our teachers and other things over the summer.

“It’s all-encompassing, but I wouldn’t want to do it in a different community or different school system.”

Barlow also is enjoying not having to make adjustments to the school schedule because of COVID.

“The COVID years were super difficult, per haps the most difficult in the history of our school system,” Barlow said. “I think our teachers and administrators did a great job of caring for people and our students. But for 2½ to 3 years, it was draining.

“This year has been a dream. It feels like for the first time in three years that things are normal, whatever normal is. The teachers can focus on learning and the administrators can focus on help ing them.”

The charity was founded after Lord Piers Wedgwood, international ambassador for Wedgwood china and Waterford crystal, suffered a major heart attack playing golf in Birmingham in 2001.

After his recovery, he was inspired to give back to the commu nity and formed the charity with Birmingham business leaders to place automatic external defibrillators, or AEDs, in community gathering plac es.

In 2002, Wedgwood and his longtime friend and business partner Frank Bromberg III, with Floyd Larkin and Robbie Robertson, creat ed the Lord Wedgwood Blue Dinner and Wedgwood Link to Life Celebrity Golf Classic to raise funds.

The charity has raised more than $600,000 and has placed more than 450 AEDS and EKG devices across the United States, mainly in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Texas. The charity’s website said at least five lives have been saved due to donations and the awareness it has raised.

Wedgwood died in January 2014.

The Lord Wedgwood Charity’s

mission is to fight sudden cardiac arrest, which claims more than

250,000 lives each year and is a lead ing cause of death in the United

States, according to the organiza tion’s website.

OVER

Sportsman’s Social, Clay Shoot to Benefit Lord Wedgwood Charity

Sportsman’s Social and Clay Shoot board members include, front row from left: Marcia Twitty, Floyd Larkin, Frank Bromberg and Robby Robertson. Standing: Kim and Ryan Allen, Janet King, Chip Braswell, Mary Ashley Twitty, Eric Wood, Susan Gordon, Jar Twitty, Chrissy Moffat, Nola Innes and Gail Braswell.

Mountain Brook’s Barlow Considers Honor a Team Award

Courtesy Mountain Brook Schools

Dr. Dicky Barlow has been Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent since 2009.

A proven supporter of EDUCATION

A proven leader in our COMMUNITY

SOCIAL

MAESTRO’S BALL

The Alys Stephens Center was the setting for the Maestro’s Ball, which benefits the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, on Oct. 7.

Laura and Jesse Vogtle were the 2022 Maestro’s Ball hosts.

The annual ball is the symphony’s largest fundraising event. Each year, Birmingham’s corporate community and individuals contribute generously, helping raise as much as 10% of the ASO’s operating budget.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Ball to Benefit ASO Held at Alys Stephens Center

Cliff and Cindy Martin

Kathryn Holladay and Jennifer Fisher

Lant and Amanda Davis, Laura and Charles Pitts

Mike and Ursula Kemp, Pam and Alex Morton

Scott and Cameron Vowell, Tony and Teresa Allen

Leigh Inskeep, James King, William King and Wade Bice

Ashton Smith, Jeanna McSweeney, Jesse and Laura Vogtle and Jack Sacco

Alexandra and Sam Lloyd

Erica and Colin Casey

An Enchanted Evening 1920s Backdrop Sets Scene for BCT Gala

The 1920s set the scene for the Birmingham Children’s Theatre Gala, “An Enchanted Evening,” on Oct. 13 at The Fennec.

The evening of music and dazzling entertainment celebrated the orga nization’s 75th anniversary of enriching children’s lives through the magic of professional theater.

Funds raised from the event will go directly to BCT’s onstage produc tions, education programming and opportunities for arts engagement to thousands of children throughout the greater Birmingham area.

5th Annual

FINDING HOPE TOGETHER

Carolyn and Bill Satterfield

Catherine Crosby and Robin Mark Robert and Jeri Cole

Left, Ross and Katherine Beshear, Heather and Paul Brewer. Right, Shannon Harris, Ashley Woods and Morgan Johnston

Journal

photos by Jordan Wald

Rehab Reality...

by Judy Butler

Holiday Drama Begins

Oh joy! It’s already started. Decorations are out for Christmas before Halloween. What happened to taking the time to enjoy each event as it happened? There was a time when we had Christmas in July, but at least is was one month and then things were normal.

Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what we have, and Christmas or Hanukkah is the celebration of a rededication of life. But every year it seems like the meanings slip away a little more. There’s so much pressure from all around, it’s no wonder people drink or seek other means to escape.

Having a glass of wine or a mixed drink at the end of a stressful day can be what some people use to relax. However, those who find that one drink leads to a second or third and so on should take stock of his or her life. Maybe it’s time to really be honest with one’s self before it’s too late. We accept the fact that no one plans on becoming an addict therefore there’s no shame in getting help just as one would do with another disease of health issue.

If there are missing time slots in the memory of the night before or a bruise that can’t be explained … or the need to have that morning drink to ‘get going’ or to prevent trimmers it’s probably time to get help.

Drama isn’t limited to the holidays; it can be a part of everyday life. Finding the right tools for handling it should be a priority. Call me today and give the greatest gift of the season to yourself or someone you love.

Fashion for Education

Linly Heflin Unit Hosts Fashion Show Fundraiser

The Linly Heflin Unit hosted its 63rd annual Scholarship Fashion Show on Oct. 12 at The Club. The latest fashions were modeled on the runway during the festive evening.

The event began with a cocktail reception during which guests min gled before the fashion show, which was organized by Gus Mayer.

This year, featured designer Jonathan Simkhai coordinated with Gus Mayer owner Jeff Pizitz and President Mitch Johnson, while committee chair Kendall Eagan and co-chair Katherine DeBuys also worked to create the event.

Funds raised will help with the organization’s mission to award scholarships to women seeking degrees at Alabama universities. In the past, scholarships up to $9,000 for up to four years have been awarded to women pursing under graduate degrees. ❖

Melissa Kenan, Wendy Morris, Francie Deaton, Rosemary Gillespie, Lelie MaCleod and Nicole Reed

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Julie Goyer, Kendall Eagan, Leigh Bromberg and Leacy Drannan

Jeff and Deanna Pizitz

Leigh Sullivan, Lelia Neil and Allison Ingram

Chad and Janet Richey

Carol May and Beth Moshier

Lisa Marie McGilberry and Patti Hughes

Leigh Anne Haas, Lois Bradford, Jennifer Ard and Kathy Skinner

Betsy Cooper, Anna Cooper and Kitty Greenhalgh

Cameron Estes, Cameron Crowe and Katherine DeBuys

Katherine Cox, Emily Russell, Sims Kilgore and Alex Goodman

Perryn Carroll, Mary Louise King and Kristin McPherson

George and Virginia Jones, Lillian and Peyton Falkenburg

Rachel Roberts, Mary Caylor Mitchell and Sarah Gambril

Kendall Eagan, Constance Ladd Moore, Julie Goyer and Peggy Rafield

Photo by Elizabeth Outland

Tacos for Trinity Food, Beer and Shopping Pull in Supporters to Raise Money for Trinity Counseling

Around the Pool

Who doesn’t love a good taco, espe cially when it’s for a good cause?

There were plenty to be found at the 10th annual Tacos for Trinity fun draiser for Trinity Counseling. The event, held Oct. 13 at Cahaba Brewing Company, drew supporters in with live music, food, beer and a silent auction.

Trinity Counseling is a nonprofit counseling service.

Old Mill Garden Club Celebrates Fall With Party and Speaker

Old Mill Garden Club members gathered in September at the home of Michele Smith for a poolside party.

Katherine Shepard updated members on plans for renovations in the future as part of the Jemison Park Trail Project.

The neighborhood garden club has been active for more than 30 years. It brings in speakers for meetings, holds parties, sponsors Easter Egg Hunts for children and has taken on many projects over the years.

For more information on the trail project see, visit the Friends of Jemison Park website at friendsofjemisonpark.org.

Share Your Good News!

Cheryl Fritze, Jean Smallwood, Anna Cooper, Valerie Lightfoot and Paige Andrews

Courtesy Old Mill Garden Club

Elizabeth Outland, Elizabeth Miller, Katherine Shepard and Michele Smith

Lelia Neil, Meleesa Jack, Gisel Cooper, Rosemary Gillespy, Thomasene Collins and Gina Winn

Chris, Whit and Stewart Richards

Brian and Lauren Goessling

Lynn and David Murphree

Susan Hart and Danalu Smith

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Chef’s Dinner for ROAR

Event Raises Funds for Cancer Research at UAB

ROAR the Cure held a fundraising dinner Oct. 1 with chef Jonathan Harrison at the home of Dennis and Jeannene O’Brien in Helena.

ROAR, which stands for radiation oncology accelerated research, The Cure is a nonprofit organization that supports cancer research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham

Department of Radiation Oncology. The evening raised funds for ground breaking cancer research.

The event drew 44 friends and supporters to the O’Brien’s backyard for dinner set against views along the Cahaba River. The dinner featured a meal prepared by Harrison, named Shelby Living Magazine’s 2022 Best

Chef.

Donna Conklin is president and Mona Stephens is first vice president of ROAR. Julie Kim is ROAR gala chair.

Funds raised for this charity dinner were matched dollar for dollar by the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Audrey Lindquist, Ann and Ken Horne, Deane Giles

Bill and Leigh Ann Fleagle, Bethany and Ben Martin

Cathy Pincher and Tommy Hudson

Marty and Lita Keely and Jeannene and Dennis O’Brien

Jimmie and Mona Stephens

Vanessa Culpepper, Janice Rogers, Maree and Russell Jones

Opening Salvo

DAR Chapter Hears From Historian and Author

The General Sumter Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution welcomed historian Mike Bunn to the opening meeting of its 127th year at an Oct. 5 luncheon at The Club.

Vice regent for programs Becky Keyes introduced Bunn, who is the recipient of the National Society DAR Excellence in American History Book Award, and who spoke about his book, “Fourteenth Colony: The Forgotten Story of the Gulf South During America’s Revolutionary War.”

The author is director of Historic Blakeley State Park in Spanish Fort.

Ellen Tucker is the regent of the General Sumter Chapter. She intro duced the following officers: Powell Owens, second vice regent; Florence Dodge, chaplain; Cathy Boardman, recording secretary; Judy Anderson, corresponding secretary; Anita Dillon, treasurer; Karen Kapp, assis tant treasurer; Cynthia Speake, regis trar; Rebekah Tatum, assistant regis trar; Barbara Klyce, historian; Cheri Sanders, librarian; Jean Vaughan, parliamentarian; and honorary regent Emily Blount; along with Keyes.

The chapter recently celebrated Constitution Week by presenting

patriotic flags, lapel pins and copies of the U.S. Constitution to students in

area high schools. A Constitution Week proclamation was received

from Mountain Brook Mayor Stewart Welch. ❖

Becky Keyes, Mike Bunn and Ellen Tucker

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

COMMEMORATIVE

Rebekah Taylor, Karen Shallenberg, Anita Dillon and Marilyn Waggoner

Liz Wolff, Annie Green, Carolyn Satterfield and Carla Roberson

Rhetta Tatum, Betsy Thwaite, Janeal Shannon and Chery Williams

Here Come the Holidays!

Homewood Set to Kick Off the Season with Holiday Open House Nov.

Homewood is getting ready for the most wonderful time of the year again, starting with its Holiday Open House festivities downtown on Nov. 3 beginning at 5 p.m.

Merchants on 18th Street will stay open late during this event, offering drinks, appetizers and a fun environment for people to do their holiday shopping. To get shoppers in the holiday spirit, local musicians will play sounds of the season.

Those who come out to the event also will have a chance to take a ride on the Homewood for the Holidays Trolley or grab a photo with Santa.

This is one of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce’s most anticipated events and draws thousands of people to the Homewood community each year. In addition to kicking off the holiday season, the event also encourages members of the community to support local businesses.

Also, part of the Homewood for the Holidays campaign is the annual Lighting of the Star, which will be held Dec. 6 at the top of the 18th Street hill in downtown Homewood. Homewood Mayor Patrick McClusky will light the star at 6:30 p.m. This also marks the official start of the Homewood Christmas Parade. Float registration information is available at homewoodparks.com.

Santa will light the Christmas Tree in front of City Hall after the parade finishes and then be available for photos.

Applause Dancewear

Applause Dancewear has been known as “Your One Stop For All Of Your Dancing Needs” since it was opened by Buddy and Cindy Wade in 1981. Their daughter, Katie Wade Faught, above with Cindy, has continued that strong tradition and consistent answer to an ever changing and exponentially growing dance market since her ownership in 1992.

“As a family that has grown up in dance and that has a love and true passion for this art form, it comes as second nature and makes it an abso lute joy to come to work everyday,” said Faught, above.

“In these critical times, as our world changes around us, we are striving to keep as much nor malcy in the community of dance as we can.

For our customers and our little dancers that are here to buy their first pair of dance shoes, whether they be the first ballet or tap shoe for a toddler or the first pointe shoe for a teen, we want it to be a very special moment!”

“We also want to remind everyone that our entire staff is fully trained in fitting pointe shoes. We offer group appointments for studio fittings in our store and offer the ability for indi viduals to come in for pointe shoe fittings with out having to make an appointment. Please give us a call or come by to see the extensive inven tory and sizes available for all of our dancers!!”

Applause Dancewear is located at 1629 Oxmoor Road in Homewood, 205-871-7837.

Tree lighting ceremony in Homewood is planned for

Homewood Toy & Hobby

Homewood Toy & Hobby Shop is celebrating its 71st year in business, making it the oldest toy store and hobby shop in the Birmingham area.

“We are family-owned and operated since 1950 with a focus on classic toys for the child inside of everyone,” said owner Tricia McCain, above right, with store manager Julie Marix and shop dog, Eve.

“We carry a wide variety of brands including, but not limited to Corolle Dolls, Lego, Playmobil, Melissa & Doug, Lionel Trains and Traxxas Remote Control.

“Whether you are looking for a new toy for a

newborn baby, a birthday gift for your child’s classmate or even a new hobby for Dad, our experienced staff can help you decide on the best item,” Tricia said. “We carry the largest selection of remote controlled toys in Birmingham. We are proud to have 70 years of business in the hobby industry.

“If you are looking for a particular toy, don’t hesitate to give us a call. If we don’t stock it, we can often special order it for you.”

Homewood Toy & Hobby Shop is located at 2830 18th Street S., 205-879-3986.

Mantooth Interiors

Since 1973, three generations of the Mantooth family have brought you the most rare and evolv ing collection of the very best in home furnishings.

Led by a mother and son team, Lynette and Josh Mantooth, along with a very talented design team, (pictured above, from left, Danielle Palladino, Beth Jackson, Josh Mantooth, Lynette Mantooth and Lori Twitty) they can bring your interior dreams to a reality.

Mantooth Interiors is known for their incredible selection of luxurious bed linens, exquisite uphol stery fabrics, art, lighting, case goods, beds, cus tom window treatments, and Hunter Douglas prod ucts. A commitment to quality and service is the foundation on which the Mantooth family built their business. This foundation has allowed them

to build relationships with clients that last from one generation to the next.

“Our designers have the talent, creativity, and most importantly, the passion to create the perfect atmosphere for the perfect home,” Lynette said.

Mantooth Interiors is ready to help you transi tion your home for the Holiday Season.

“Our showroom is stocked with new inventory, full of color and style, ready for immediate deliv ery!” Josh said.

“Come in and let the Mantooth Interiors team assist you in being ‘HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS’”

Mantooth Interiors is located at 2813 18th Street So., (205) 879-5474.

Magic for

Years

‘IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PARTICULAR TOY, DON’T HESITATE TO GIVE US A CALL. IF WE DON’T STOCK IT, WE CAN OFTEN SPECIAL ORDER IT FOR YOU.’

HATS OFF FOR THE HOLIDAYS. HATS OFF FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

Diversifying Is the Key to Wallace-Burke’s Success

“Our mainstay here at Wallace-Burke will always be creating fine jewelry,” said David Burke Hezlep who co-owns the business with Preston Wallace Foy (from left above).

“As an in-house manufacturing jeweler, we can produce just about anything a person can imagine. The most budget friendly thing you can do is come to Wallace-Burke for your jewelry needs. Just imagine repurposing the old jewelry in your jewelry box into something spectacular without spending a fortune,” David said.

“Adaptability is the key. We made a shift and started providing local art. The response has been fantastic!” Preston said.

“We have expanded to now include state

wide, ‘Alabama Only’ artists; always keeping an eye on affordability,” Preston said.

And now, a life-long hobby of furniture resto ration and repair has become just another way for Wallace-Burke to reach out to neighbors in the surrounding communities.

“We had no idea there would be such a demand for quality furniture restoration. The response has been incredible,” Preston said.

Please stop by our gallery and enjoy all of our beautiful jewelry, art and craftsmanship.

Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry - ArtFurniture Restoration & Repair is located at 1811 29th Ave. So., (205) 874-1044.

Here Come the Holidays!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

HOLIDAY IN THE HILLS

The holiday season in Vestavia kicks off in Cahaba Heights with Deck the Heights on Nov. 12 from 2 -7 p.m. In addition to holiday specials from local merchants Heights Holiday Pop Up Shops will open at 10 a.m. all around Cahaba Heights.

Vestavia City Center will hold a magical holiday celebration on Nov. 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. with the annual All Is Bright Tree Lighting.

The Annual Tree Lighting Festival will take place Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. at Vestavia Hills City Hall and includes musical entertainment, merchant giveaways and a visit from Santa.

Fun for the whole family, the annual Breakfast with Santa will be held Dec. 10 from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the new Vestavia Hills Civic Center.

Citywide festivities will conclude Dec. 11 with the annual Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade and Celebration from 2 to 4 p.m. The parade will begin at Liberty Park Sports Complex and travel to Alston Meadows Park, where a holiday celebration will take place.

For more information, visit vestaviahills.org.

MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR IN MOUNTAIN BROOK

Throughout the holiday season, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce and local merchants will host open house events that provide festive community activities and encourage gift-givers to shop local.

Crestline Village’s Holiday Open House will kick things off Nov. 17. Participating merchants will offer discounts and special activities from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Even Santa Claus may be stopping by again this year for pictures.

The highly anticipated Mountain Brook Village Open House and English Village Holiday Open House will take place Dec. 1 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The city’s celebrations will culminate with the annual Christmas Parade on Dec. 4 beginning at 3 p.m. The parade will begin at Office Park and travel through Mountain Brook Village, with floats decked out in holiday regalia and performances by Mountain Brook City Schools cheerleaders, dance teams and bands.

For more information, visit mtnbrookchamber.org.

HOOVER ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Hoover’s official start of their holiday season takes place on Nov. 29 at 5 p.m. at Hoover City Hall and includes a performance by a Hoover City School choir, the lighting of the tree by a Hoover student and Santa’s entrance on a fire truck, ready for pictures.

WALLACE -BURKE Fine Jewelry & CollectiblesFine Jewelry & Art

FINE DESIGNER JEWELRY

LOCAL ARTISTS & FURNITURE RESTORATION 1811 29th. Avenue S. Homewood wallace-burke.com 205-874-1044

29th Avenue S. Homewood wallace-burke.com

photos by Maury Wald

Showcasing Tradition

BH&G Inspiration Home Reflects Trends Moving Back to Classical Styles

By Virginia MacDonalD

This year’s Inspiration Home, sponsored by Birmingham Home and Garden Magazine, show cases a national trend of returning to classical and traditional decor.

The overall design of the house is timeless and classic, and the décor fea tures a return to antiques and tradition.

“It is interesting to see how design architecture and building trends show through the house,” said magazine editor Cathy McGowin.

Building and designing the Inspiration Home, which this year is at 2211 Chestnut Road in Vestavia Hills, takes about a year and begins with a lot of plan ning on the front end, McGowin said. Several decora tors for this year’s house have worked with the maga zine’s showcase homes before.

This year’s house was constructed by Mitch Bradford, owner and operator of Saunders Bradford Building Company. Tier 1 Inspiration Home sponsors this year are AllSouth Appliance Group, Southern Sash Supply and Triton Stone Group. There are about 30 other sponsors for this, the magazine’s 11th fea

The overall design of the house is timeless and classic, and the décor features a return to antiques and tradition.

On-Trend and Timeless Colors, Design

at Inspiration

tured home.

Top vendors and designers bring inno vative and exciting style to the house, which features fresh designs from Birmingham favorites as well as new comers to the design scene.

“Some interior designers are featured every year, because they know the home is a professional exten sion of their shop or showroom,” McGowin said.

All furnishings and items in the home are for sale, McGowin said, although the house itself has been sold.

Above, the Inspiration Home’s main living room space with an open concept that includes the kitchen was designed by the team from Stock & Trade design.

Each room of the Inspiration Home is decorated by a different designer.

“What makes it unique is that it flows together as a home,” said BH&G Magazine Publisher Walker Sorrell. “We usually do one home a year, but the big thing is that all ticket sales go to charity.”

This year all ticket-sale proceeds will benefit The Bell Center, which offers early intervention programs for toddlers and infants at risk for developmental delay.

For the Sake of Flow Britney Bradford of Neylan Design served as the interior design liaison, coordinating with each of the designers to ensure the rooms flowed with one another.

family-friendly plan, with

bedroom on the main

three bedrooms, including one perfect for a little girl, above.

“I was so impressed with the designers and their dedication to establishing a cohesive feel from one room to the next,” she said.

“The design of the house has a more traditional look, and the design

ers leaned into that by choosing time less items accented with contempo rary pieces to give the house a col lected feeling.

“There was very much a team mentality amongst the designers in their desire to have continuity from room to room,” Bradford added.

McGowin said another beauty of the home is that everything is locally sourced, from hardware to vendors.

“This home is the way the pages of the magazine come to life. Those who tour the home can get a sense of what it is like to live in a room. Designs featured come to life, and it becomes touchable.”

The Inspiration Home sits in a tree-filled neighborhood off South Shades Crest Road and was designed by Adam Gerndt of Adam Gerndt Design Group.

It features a family-friendly plan, with the master bedroom on the main level, three bedrooms and three baths upstairs, and an open-concept living space.

Other features include a wet-room shower, two fireplaces and beamed ceilings in the den.

There is also a full basement with bath that could serve as guest quarters or a media room.

“The house brings authentic scale to the neighborhood,” Gerndt said. “It’s not overblown, but it’s not a small cottage. It’s designed to grow with the family.”

Gerndt’s firm strives to maximize investment, selecting materials and processes that will ensure longevity

and developing innovative designs.

The team’s use of regional materi als and vernacular forms, along with a sensitivity to the site, lead to timeless designs.

Landscapers for the Inspiration Home were Craig Smith & Fletcher

Smith.

At The Bell Center, children from throughout Central Alabama can receive programs for a wide variety of special needs and diagnoses, ranging from cerebral palsy and Down syn

Rooms

rooms of antiques, curiosities and fun!

By Virginia MacDonalD

The Inspiration Home’s main liv ing room space with an open concept that includes the kitchen was designed by the team from Stock & Trade design.

On-Trend and Timeless Colors, Design

“Our design aesthetic typically focuses on using a neutral color pal ette that blends well with other

designs,” said Christopher Rankin, executive vice president of creative product and development at Stock & Trade.

“So we begin with a plan that will coordinate well with the other decora tors, even if we do not know what their design plan will be,” Rankin said.

Various interior designers are invited to decorate individual rooms in the Inspiration Home.

“I’ve noticed with most of the Inspiration Homes that we’ve done in the past that there seems to be an overall theme of color or design style that carries throughout most of the home,” Rankin said.

“I think that may be due largely to colors that are on trend at the time, the style of the home and by having a lead designer that manages the project for the builder and the magazine to help coordinate the different designs to ensure the flow through the home is cohesive.”

Rankin said global events over the past few years have changed our life styles dramatically and people now spend a lot more time in their homes, even transitioning their workspaces into their homes.

“This is making home furnishings and design a more important focus for most of us,” he said. “It is also creat ing a shift in design trends with a greater focus on comfort and classic styling – quality pieces that will last longer and not have to be replaced every few years.”

Neutrals are still on trend, espe cially with big ticket items such as upholstery and rugs.

“But we are seeing richer warmer neutrals and contrasting expresso, and black accents are becoming more

Journal photo by Maury Wald

Various interior designers are invited to decorate individual rooms in the Inspiration Home. Stock & Trade designed the living room area.

popular. Antiques and classic archi tectural elements are also becoming a larger part of current classic design trends.”

However, the current classic and traditional design isn’t your grand mothers’ stuffy parlor design from the past.

“It is more eclectic, such as tradi tional styles accented with bold fabric and wallpaper choices, mixed materi als and textures, traditional furnish

Acrylic on canvas by Maya Eventov

Featured

ings paired with modern abstract art, even a bit of glam.

“The spaces are layered and wellcurated to make them unique, person al and inviting,” Rankin said.

Taking Over the South Stock & Trade began 10 years ago as a small boutique home decor shop.

“We have evolved into a regional home furnishings lifestyle brand with five locations in four states,” Rankin

said.

“Our focus has always been to provide beautiful and affordable home furnishings with a sophisticat ed casual elegance to their designs. Our showrooms have a curated and eclectic mix of decor and home fur nishings that focus on clean transi tional lines and classic styling that make them easy to incorporate into most design plans to create a time less look.”

Stock & Trade’s first location was in Birmingham, with Destin, Atlanta, Spanish Fort and Nashville follow ing. The showrooms range in size from 22,000 to 70,000 square feet.

Last week, Rankin was busy moving a showroom from Destin to a new three-story flagship store in Santa Rosa Beach.

Woven Wood Shades

Honeycomb Shades

Custom Drapery

PolysatinTM Shutters

INSPIRATION

This year’s Birmingham Home and Garden Magazine Inspiration Home was designed by Adam Gerndt of Adam Gerndt Design Group and constructed by Mitch Bradford, owner and operator of Saunders Bradford Building Company. Above, from left, Britney Bradford, Neyland Designs, Inspiration Home interior design liaison; Mitch Bradford; Adam Gerndt and Hope Roddam and Traci Owen, Birmingham Home & Garden Magazine.

Birmingham House & Garden Magazine Inspiration Home Details

Where: 2211 Chestnut Road in Vestavia Hills

When: Nov. 3-17, Thursdays through Sundays (closed Thanksgiving Day), 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays, and 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $10 at the door or at birminghamhomeandgarden.com.

Parking: On-street parking; stay on one side of the road.

Benefits: The Bell Center for Early Intervention, where programs are designed for at-risk babies and toddlers.

Homes on Parade

16 Houses Open This Weekend on GBAHB Tour

The Greater Birmingham Parade of Homes returns this month with 16 new houses on the market that will be open for touring Oct. 21-23.

The houses are dotted through Jefferson, Walker, St. Clair and Shelby counties.

The annual open house event, pre sented by Spire, is taking place amid a housing market that remains tight for buyers, especially when it comes to new builds. Organizers at the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders hope the chance to view new properties in person will encourage prospective homeowners to move forward despite rising interest rates.

“I’m proud beyond words of how our team has come together to make the parade happen in this climate,” said association President Joshua Dean.

The houses on the tour will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

You can visit birminghamparad eofhomes.com for more information on the tour and on each of the houses. Or search Facebook for @ BhamParadeofHomes on Facebook for more information.

TruBlue

TruBlue of Birmingham provides quality handy man and maintenance services to homeowners, seniors and busy families in Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook and Hoover.

The company was started by Rick Batson and Roxanne Batson, above, left and right, with Roxanne’s former partner in a technology company, Mur Feldman, center.

“The reason we started this company was because we found it so difficult to find someone we could call on when we needed the small things done around the house including repairs, replacements and even regular maintenance items. Just to have a doorknob fixed took three months!” said Roxanne.

“In addition, all three of us had dealt with aging parents who wanted to stay in their home but couldn’t maintain it. They needed regular help and it

was always us putting in the labor or find someone else. We have two Certified Home Safety Inspectors on our team who specialize in helping seniors and their adult children to make the home as safe and well-maintained as possible.”

“TruBlue of Birmingham became our focus to provide handyman services on a regular basis to home owners, said Mur. “We thought ‘Why not offer a company that would exclusively focus on small projects and helping homeowners keep their homes well maintained?’”

TruBlue also offers programs to help with regu lar maintenance such as replace bulbs in overhead lights, batteries in smoke alarms, air filters, move furniture, clean up and organize storage rooms, etc.

TruBlue of Birmingham is headquartered in Homewood, their phone number is 205-839-3818.

Journal

photo by Maury Wald

SENIORS

Celebrating 100 Years of Life

By Solomon CrenShaw Jr.

Judy Butler didn’t let a first impression keep her from learning more about Eugene Britt Butler, the man who would become her husband.

She lived up the hill from Butler in Vestavia Hills’ River Run commu nity and had come home to tend to her dog, Molly.

“Britt was in my yard where that playground equipment is with a chain saw one day when I came home,” she recalled. “He was in my yard with a chain saw, and you don’t argue with a man with a chain saw.”

Turns out Britt – as he’s generally known – was being a good neighbor, cutting up a couple of fallen trees.

“He was doing me a favor,” Judy said. “That’s how we met. From there on it was history. We would walk around the block, walk our dogs and what have you.

“I told him my life story so he knew all my warts and all,” she said. “Likewise, he did the same for me.”

Except Britt didn’t divulge his age and she couldn’t figure out how old he was.

Never did.”

The “war” about which he spoke was World War II, and he is about to celebrate his 100th birth day.

Judy knows now that Britt was 78 when they met, and she was 53. She had no clue he was that old.

“He did not look it or act it,” she said. “He would play golf at Altadena.”

The couple started going to UAB basketball games and per formances of a symphony orches tra. “Before I knew it, he popped the question,” she said. “I nearly passed out. I’m like, ‘Ughhhh.’”

At 75, Judy is nearly 25 years younger than Britt, who was born on Oct. 31, 1922.

“I’m 75 and Britt will be 100 on Halloween,” she said. “His grandfather delivered him; he’s a doctor in Memphis, was a doctor in Memphis. When Britt was born, he said, ‘Spooky has arrived.’

“He went by Spooky for a long time, I guess

“He would talk about the war,” Judy recalled. “I know it wasn’t in Vietnam because

he’s older than that. I don’t know anything about Korea. He never did tell me how old he was.

Centenarian Was Around for WWII and the Start of Southern Living, Fueled Creation of Cahaba River Society

In 1988, Britt started a non-profit founda tion called ABAHAC, which is Cahaba spelled backward. From this foundation, the Cahaba River Society was born.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

What Legal Documents Should Seniors Have?

Aging is a natural part of life, and there comes a time when seniors require more help. Whether they become injured, ill, or develop dementia, they may need someone to assist with decision making and ensure their affairs are in order. This can be a challenging time for families, but advanced planning can make the process run more smoothly.

There are a variety of essential documents that seniors should put in place while they are still of sound mind and able to make decisions for themselves. Make sure that documents are all together in a secure location where a trusted family member or friend can access them if need be. Here are a few tips to get started:

FINANCIALS

Work with a financial advisor to get banking and bill payments in order. Make a list of recurring bills, when they are paid, and how. Write down bank account numbers, credit card information, any debts or liabilities, any investments like stocks or bonds, and any sources of income. Check with the bank about how to designate someone else permission to access financial accounts to pay bills. Seniors may also want designated a durable financial power of attorney.

Compile important financial documents such as:

Deeds to any homes

Title and registration for any vehicles

Insurance policies

Most recent income tax return

Healthcare

Decisions regarding healthcare can be stressful if family members are unsure what their loved ones would want. Seniors should let their wishes be known before they become

incapacitated. Some documents to help include:

Advanced Directive: This document outlines what type of care the person wants to receive, including ventilators, feeding tubes, or resuscitation.

Durable Power of Attorney: This designates the person who will make medical decisions on the senior’s behalf should they be unable to make those decisions for themselves.

Release of Information: This gives

healthcare providers or organizations permission to share healthcare information with approved individuals.

Insurance Information: Make copies of any health insurance cards and policies, as well as long-term care insurance.

Emergency Information: Write down the names and contact numbers of any healthcare providers, the dates of any surgeries or procedures that were performed, details about any medical conditions, and an updated list of all medications taken.

OTHER IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

There are a few other documents to keep in mind as well:

Revocable Trust: Seniors decide who will receive what property or assets and when. Once they pass, having this document in place avoids a lengthy probate process and keeps decisions private rather than part of public record.

Will: This form details exactly how the senior’s assets should be handled, and who should care for any dependents.

End-of-Life Planning: Seniors may want to outline instructions for what happens once they pass away and what type of memorial they would like. Some people pay in advance for

funeral arrangements or burial plots.

Legal Records: Compile copies of birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, military records, etc.

The more prepared and organized seniors and their families are, the easier it can make things during emergency situations or end-of-life care. These situations can be difficult to think about or discuss, but having these conversations and putting legal documents in place is vital. Don’t forget to inform any caregivers about important information they should know about advanced directives and emergency contacts as well.

To learn about how non-medical in-home care can fit into your loved one’s plans and enhance their quality of life, schedule a free consultation by contacting Always Best Care at 205874-9730 or email Jennifer Mancuso, above, at jmancuso@abc-seniors.com.

Danberry at Inverness

The Unique Choice in Senior Living

In the past, seniors seeking a retirement community had few options. Often, it was either an uninspiring urban high-rise with few outside amenities or an upscale development built around a golf-course or waterfront with few personal services.

But today’s retirees and tomorrow’s retiring baby boomers increasingly demand an environment that not only is carefree, but also offers them ample opportuni ties to remain mentally and physically active in a soothing natural setting.

In other words, they want an address that redefines retirement.

Danberry at Inverness senior living community, located at 235 Inverness Center Drive in Hoover, just off US 280 and Valleydale Road, is an example of an inspiring approach to retirement living that feels unique from the moment one enters its atrium lobby. Stained-glass windows and a cascading waterfall set the mood for a retirement lifestyle that emphasizes nat ural beauty, vitality and personal fulfillment. Residents can choose from comfortable one-, two- or three-bed room luxury apartment homes which are appointed with upscale features such as ceramic tile floors, gran ite countertops and stainless steel appliances. English gardens and flowering landscapes complete these pic ture-perfect residences.

Comprehensive health and wellness services for independent living, assisted living and memory care lifestyles are available at Danberry at Inverness, and they are offered in meticulously designed environ ments that invite nature indoors. For example, through out the Danberry at Inverness Clubhouse, nature seam lessly blends both indoors and out with fireplaces, the atrium lobby, English tea gardens and waterfalls. Here, residents can take care of everyday details and enjoy a range of first-class amenities (movie theater, creative art studio, bridge and card rooms) and services (library, mail/communications room). Dining is available in the formal dining room and al fresco on the garden terrace.

Danberry at Inverness

A Dynamic Approach to Wellness

Danberry at Inverness retirement community has been chosen as one of the nation’s top communities in 2013 on SeniorAdvisor.com, the premier online ratings and reviews site for senior living communities nationwide.

The SeniorAdvisor 2013 Excellence Award recognizes senior living communities that receive consistently high ratings and positive reviews from residents, families, and visitors. “Receiving this des ignation places Danberry in the top one percent of all retirement communities nationwide,” said Danberry at Inverness marketing director, Lori Krueger. “We are so proud that so many—especially our residents— consider us to be one of the best of the best.”

The award-winning Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture and natural surroundings only add to the peaceful, stress-reducing environment.

“We believe that Danberry at Inverness offers people over 55 independent living unlike anywhere else - one that encourages growth, learning and discovery of new things about yourself and your environment,” said Danberry at Inverness Marketing Director Lori Krueger.

The advantages of living in one of today’s wellnessoriented retirement communities are many: ample opportunities to stay as strong and independent as possible, staying in the mainstream of activities and events and keeping a healthy outlook on life. Danberry at Inverness offers exceptional fitness opportunities all under one roof, such as “senior-friendly” spa services, a fully equipped fitness center, classes including Tai Chi, aerobics, water yoga and Pilates, a private seniorfriendly heated indoor, resort-style saltwater pool and a wellness clinic.

“Our residents will tell you that they wish they’d moved here sooner. They love the carefree, fun-filled and rewarding retire ment lifestyle they find at Danberry. And we love serving them!”

Located in Inverness on Lake Heather, Danberry at Inverness is a senior living community for adults 55 and older with every convenience and amenity imaginable, including a clubhouse with card rooms, a ballroom, indoor swimming pool, creative art studio, salon/ spa, theater, fitness studio, innovative wellness programs and much more. Residents enjoy chef-prepared menus and dining with friends in the casual bistro or more formal dining room. Services include scheduled transportation, concierge and weekly housekeeping. For those in need of a helping hand, 24-hour licensed professional nursing is available on-site in Assisted Living at Danberry, which offers a comfortable and luxurious atmosphere. On-site physical and occupational therapy also are available.

“We make sure our residents have every opportuni ty to learn, explore and savor life in a whole new way,” said Krueger. “In other words, we help them design a future filled with fun!”

This community really must be seen to be believed, so stop by Danberry at Inverness today, visit DanberryAtInverness.com or call 443-9500.

lori Krueger, marketing director, Danberry at Inverness.

Get more out of life at Danberry at Inverness

“Our residents will tell you that they wish they’d moved here sooner. They love the carefree, fun-filled and rewarding retirement lifestyle they find at Danberry,” said Krueger. “And we love serving them!”

Danberry is the flagship senior housing development for the Daniel Corporation and is managed by CRSA®, an LCS® company.

Danberry at Inverness is located on Lake Heather just off U.S. 280 and Valleydale Road in Hoover, 443-9500.

Even more than larger floor plans, gorgeous architecture, and outstanding amenities—Danberry at Inverness frees you to create a lifestyle all your own, with Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care all right here. More peace of mind. And a lot more fun!

Residents enjoy:

•Flexible dining options

•Transportation

•Housekeeping

•Fitness Center

•Wellness Clinic

•24-hour nursing

•Indoor resort-style pool

•Full-service salon & spa

•Card & billiard rooms

•Creative arts studio

•Movie theater

•And much more!

235 Inverness Center Drive Hoover, AL 35242

DanberryAtInverness.com

Benefits

Limited

yet law but their intent is clear – they want to make it much harder for Veterans and widows to obtain their pensions. Consider applying for your pension now, before it becomes more difficult!

RSVP to (205) 443-9500. Limited Seating.

In accordance with Alabama Bar requirements, no representation is made that the quality of legal services is greater than the legal services performed by other lawyers. ARPC 7.2(e)

have

available since

ABOVE: Residents spending time together at Danberry at Inverness. LEFT: The atrium at Danberry at Inverness is the center of the club house. It connects the common areas and provides a place where resi dents can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cocktail with friends before dinner.

Distinctively Different Retirement Living

235 Inverness Center Drive Hoover, AL 35242 www.DanberryAtInverness.com

Thursday, March

2014

THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl life

Top: The atrium at Danberry is the center of the clubhouse that connects the common areas, providing a place residents can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cocktail with friends before dinner.

lefT: Waterfall at the entrance to Danberry.

Above: lori Krueger, left, marketing director and Jaclyn Gardner, executive director of Danberry at Inverness.

BRITT

until he went to the service,” the wife of 22 years said. “I’m not sure, but that was a nickname that they gave him.”

A Multifaceted Man

Britt lives a quiet life these days, ris ing late and taking frequent naps. During a recent meeting, he wore a 5-pointed star belt buckle and a blue ski cap with a bald eagle and the words: “Proud To Be An American.”

The native Texan attended Texas A&M for two years, part ly because his mother wouldn’t let him enlist. In the interim, he worked as a surveyor for the high way department. That served him well as he did that job with the Construction Battalions, better known as the Seabees.

“They had just developed this par ticular unit of the Navy so he joined,” Judy said. “Because he had surveying experience, they made him an officer. He served in the Aleutian Islands in Alaska and then also in the South Pacific.”

Britt returned to Dallas after his stint with the Seabees. By then, his grandfa ther Tate Butler had started Progressive Farmer magazine. The young veteran followed his father into the business.

“By that time, they had an office in Birmingham so he moved to

Birmingham,” Judy said. “He was their pencil-counter, more or less. His job was to watch the family jewels – sup plies and stuff like that. He was in charge of buying things. Then he was on the board of directors with the whole deal.”

The company launched Southern Living magazine in 1966. Nearly two decades later, in 1985, Southern Living was sold to Time Inc. for $498 million, the most ever paid for a publishing company at the time.

Britt has had other interests. He was a volunteer deputy sheriff, what Judy called “a weekend warrior.” He was also involved with Boy Scouts, which opened his eyes to conservation.

The former troop lead er funded several efforts to preserve clean water in the state and protect green spaces.

“It should be important to all of us,” he told ABC 33/40 in 2016, “because without the trees and the water and the lakes and stuff, we wouldn’t be around; we wouldn’t be around very long.”

In 1988, Britt started a non-profit foundation called ABAHAC, which is Cahaba spelled backward. From this foundation, the Cahaba River Society was born.

The soon-to-be centenarian gave 38 of his 43 acres to the Freshwater Land Trust as part of his commitment to not let it be developed.

“He fusses every time I want to cut down a tree,” Judy said.

The Crossings at Riverchase – a retirement community with indepen dent living, assisted living and memo ry care – held its official debut and community open house last month.

The community is built on the idea of offering residents as much assis tance as they want to take part in activities designed with seniors in mind, such as senior wellness and exercise programs, transportation to shopping areas and other activities and events.

It offers “a new approach to pur posefully designed senior living with a refreshed emphasis on flexible liv ing options, neighborly surroundings and distinct features to encourage res idents to ‘live inspired,’” according to a press release.

The Crossings opened in February and includes 90 independent living apartments, 72 assisted living apart ments and 36 memory care residenc es.

Multiple dining areas serve meals prepared with a farm-to-table philoso phy.

A variety of activity rooms and public living spaces are available for the seniors, including a fitness center and therapy gym, a library with read ing areas and computer stations, a pub/lounge, hair salon and barber shop, theater, creative arts studio and game room.

The complex has a calendar of activities and events; it sponsored a low-country boil earlier this week.

Maintenance of all units is provid ed by the company, as are housekeep

Senior Living Community The Crossings at Riverchase Dedicated in Hoover

ing and linen services.

The Crossings is at 2171 Parkway Lake Drive in Hoover, just off U.S. 31, and is managed by Greenbrier Senior Living.

Access to medical care also is available at the complex. A nurse is available every day and doctors visit weekly. Physical therapy also is offered.

Short-term stays and respite care also are available at The Crossings.

“Full of outstanding experiences and neighborly surroundings, senior living at The Crossings offers every thing you want and so much more than you expect,” the press release stated.

The former troop leader funded sev eral efforts to pre serve clean water in the state and pro tect green spaces.

Attending The Crossings at Riverchase’s ribbon cutting and open house ceremony last month were, from left, staff members of The Crossings at Riverchase Lisa Tinney, Jody Mason, Josh Hullet and Greenbrier Senior Living president Michael Mays.

Journal

photo by Jordan Wald

The Vestavia Hills City Schools Hall of Fame will add five new mem bers this year to its list of educators who have played a critical role in the growth and legacy of the school sys tem, according to a school system press release.

Inductees in the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2022 are:

• Kelly Bagby, special education teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central, Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge and Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park from 2000 to 2022.

• Brian Cain, math and psycholo gy teacher at Vestavia Hills High School from 1989 to 2002.

• Dr. Karen DeLano, assistant superintendent of Vestavia Hills City Schools from 2000 to 2012.

• Kimberly McBride, custodian at Liberty Park Middle School from 2008 to 2021, who will be inducted posthu mously.

• Audrey Pharo, kindergarten teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary West from 1977 to 2008.

This year’s inductees were chosen from a field of nominees submitted by alumni, current and former school employees and the community at large. More than 120 nominations have been received since the start of the Hall of Fame initiative. Those interested in submitting a nomination for the Class

of 2023 may visit vhcs.us/halloffame.

“The Class of 2022 continues the remarkable legacy of influence that is characteristic of the previous inductees into the VHCS Hall of Fame. They each exemplified a model of excel lence that is the standard for educators in Vestavia Hills,” said Dr. Todd Freeman, Vestavia Hills City Schools superintendent.

This year’s class will be the third group inducted into the Hall of Fame. Members of the inaugural class, inducted in 2020 as part of the school system’s 50th anniversary, were Buddy Anderson, Helen Holley, David Miles, Dr. Carlton Smith and Kay Tipton.

Last year’s inductees were Sammy Dunn, Barbara Grant, Michael Gross, Rick McKay and John Rush.

The inductees will be honored at a special Hall of Fame ceremony in January.

Hoover City Schools leaders held a groundbreaking Sept. 29 for the $15.4 million performing arts center at Hoover High School, according to a school system press release.

Dozens of school officials, city leaders and Hoover High students and staff gathered for the event.

“The community is excited about it, and our students are excited. This is something they’ve needed for a long time. Our kids are great perform ers. They win national and state com petitions, but they don’t have a place here to perform, so for us to have a first-class facility for them to perform in for the community is going to be such a blessing,” said Hoover High School Principal John Montgomery.

Forty-seven percent of Hoover High students are involved in fine arts, and the school’s current theater isn’t large enough to accommodate student performances, the press release said.

The new facility will be added to the existing Hoover High band room, and a hallway will connect the band room to the performing arts center. The 36,000-square-foot center will include 940 seats, space for an orchestra pit, a full theatrical lighting and sound package, a full fly curtain loft, an onsite scene construction workshop directly behind the stage, and a fully automated electrics rig ging system, among other features.

“To be able to have this Performing Arts Center to show off

our hard work and our talent is such a gift. We’ve had to perform our band concerts in gyms, we’ve had to find churches that would allow us to use their space to perform concerts, and now to have a center specifically for these performances will be such a wonderful opportunity,” Dalton Dismukes, a performing arts student, said.

Blalock Building Company antici pates it will take 16 to 17 months to complete the project once construc tion begins.

RECAP

From

Homewood (6-2, 5-0) clinched the Class 6A, Region 3 title, its first region title since 2017.

“It was our most complete game of the season in all phases – offense, defense and special teams,” Berguson said. “It was a lot of fun to watch. Everybody was having fun.”

Berguson wasn’t expecting the Patriots to dominate Pelham like it did.

“We were just physical up front on both sides of the ball, so a lot of cred it goes to our offensive and defensive lines,” he said. “I was really proud of our defense. Pelham was scoring about 30 points per game and to shut them out was huge. And Woods had a huge game running the football.”

Woods Ray, Homewood’s senior quarterback, ran for 86 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries. He scored on runs of 4 and 55 yards, the second coming on a perfectly executed read option. He also completed 10 of 18 passes for 122 yards with an intercep tion.

Rigdon Gibbons and Clay Burdeshaw came up with intercep tions for the Patriots.

Homewood wraps up region play Friday, hosting Briarwood at Waldrop Stadium.

The Lions (3-5, 1-4) saw their streak of 29 consecutive postseason appearances come to an end when they lost 16-14 at Benjamin Russell last Friday in Alexander City. The last time Briarwood failed to reach the playoffs was in 1992.

In the loss, Briarwood quarterback Christopher Vizzina threw a 16-yard touchdown pass to Cooper Higgins. Vizzina completed 17 of 27 passes for 175 yards but was intercepted four times, two on deflected passes.

Even though the game won’t fac tor in the playoff fates of either team, Berguson is expecting a dogfight.

“Briarwood will come up and play us tough,” Berguson said. “We have to get ready again. We want to finish up undefeated in the region.”

Hoover Shuts Out Chelsea, Sets Sights on Thompson Hoover’s defense held Chelsea to 172 total yards, recorded six sacks

and forced a fumble in a dominating performance as the Bucs (8-1, 6-0) shut out Chelsea 38-0 in a Class 7A, Region 3 game.

Meanwhile, Hoover’s offense pro duced 432 yards, 300 in the second half. The Bucs (8-1, 6-0) scored three touchdowns in the third quarter to break the game open after leading 10-0 at halftime.

Freshman quarterback Noah Schuback threw a 51-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Woolen to spark the third-quarter scoring outbreak. Schuback finished 13 of 22 passing for 186 yards.

Senior running back LaMarion McCammon scored on a 33-yard run in the third. He finished with 138 yards rushing on 11 carries and two touchdowns. He scored the Bucs’ only touchdown in the first half on a 1-yard run.

Backup quarterback Jonah Winston completed the Bucs’ thirdquarter onslaught with a 37-yard scor ing run.

terback,” Estes explained.

The Bucs’ victory sets up a show down at Thompson (7-2, 6-0) for the region championship Friday night.

“It’s going to be fun with the region championship on the line,” Hoover coach Wade Waldrop said. “We’ve all been practicing for 13 weeks and now it’s coming down to this one. You couldn’t ask for any thing more. I know both communities and both teams will be locked in.

“I like the fact that we’re playing on the road, getting on that bus and getting focused while we’re riding down. It’s going to be a great atmo sphere to be playing in.

“We’ve been sloppy the last two weeks with turnovers and penalties, so we’ve got to get that straightened out.”

Gamble Pays Off Big for Spartans

Junior running back Cole Gamble had a career night as Mountain Brook (7-1, 5-0) rolled to a 56-14 Class 6A, Region 5 victory at Mortimer Jordan.

enjoys chasing down quarterbacks.

Gamble rushed for 192 yards and five touchdowns, including four in the first half. Gamble scored on runs of 1, 4, 2, 2 and 72 yards.

Junior wide receiver Clark Sanderson had a 3-yard scoring run; senior quarterback John Colvin threw a 53-yard touchdown pass to Jason Beatty; and backup quarterback John Cooper scored on a 2-yard run.

Mountain Brook will host Gardendale (6-2, 5-0) for the region championship Friday.

Vestavia Hills Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive

Junior quarterback John Paul Head accounted for 303 yards total offense and five touchdowns as Vestavia Hills routed Oak Mountain 42-21 in Class 7A, Region 3 action at Heardmont Park.

Head scored on runs of 9, 1, 4 and 29 yards and threw a 24-yard touch down pass to Tucker Smith. Head had

142 yards rushing on 13 carries and completed 14 for 21 passing for 161 yards.

The Rebels (4-4, 3-3) can clinch a playoff berth Friday at home against Tuscaloosa County (5-3, 3-3).

“If you would’ve told us before the season that you’ve got one game to get into the playoffs on Week 9 on your senior night at home against T-County, I think everybody would’ve signed up,” Vestavia Hills coach Robert Evans said.

Elsewhere, Spain Park (2-6, 1-5) suffered a 35-16 setback at home to Hewitt-Trussville in a Class 7A, Region 3 game.

Spain Park’s scores came on Derick Shanks’ 19-yard run, Alex Lloyd’s 35-yard field goal and Brock Bradley’s 81-yard pass to Mitchell Frazier.

John Carroll Catholic (1-7) fell 48-7 at Jasper (5-3) in the first meet ing ever between the two schools.

around him. All I could see after that was the ball and I just told myself to go get the ball.”

The strip-sack set up Peyton Argent’s 29-yard field goal as the half expired, breaking a 7-7 tie and giving Hoover a 10-7 lead at the break. The Bucs went on to win 26-14, handing Mountain Brook its only loss of the season.

Last week, Estes recorded three of Hoover’s six sacks in the Bucs’ 38-0 victory against Chelsea.

“I just feel like I had the timing down of the snap cadence of the quar

Hoover coach Wade Waldrop said it’s a combination of athleticism and intelligence that enables Estes to be so disruptive.

“He’s blessed athletically, as talent ed as any player we have,” Waldrop said. “He’s an explosive player and a smart player, and he plays really hard.

There’s no doubt he will play at the next level. Some schools value a play er like him.

“It’s fun to watch him play. He’s a safety, but we’ve asked him to do dif ferent things in coverage and at the line. We bring him on the blitz, and he’s created a lot of big plays for us.”

Estes, who played defensive end and linebacker when he was younger,

“They’ve been sending me a bunch on blitzes,” he said. “I like blitzing.

“I feel like I’ve had a good season. I worked hard in the offseason to get better, but there’s still some stuff I can improve.”

‘Bunch of Dogs’

Estes is part of a defense that has been rock solid throughout the season. The Bucs are allowing only 9.1 points per game and have shut out two of their past three opponents. They blanked Oak Mountain 40-0 on Sept. 30.

“I feel like we’ve got a bunch of dogs on defense,” Estes said. “I think our front seven is the best in the state

and on the back end, we’ve got a lot of experience. We’ve jelled together during spring training and fall camp and throughout the season.

“Coach Waldrop and Coach (Granville) Eastman (defensive coor dinator) changed our defense a little bit on pass coverage and we’re bring ing more pressure, too.”

The Bucs’ biggest test of the sea son comes Friday, when Hoover (8-1, 6-0) visits Thompson (7-2, 6-0) in a game that will decide the Class 7A, Region 3 championship. The Warriors, the three-time reigning Class 7A state champions, have won six of their past seven meetings against the Bucs, including eliminat ing Hoover in the semifinals the past

four years.

But Estes is not ready to concede anything to the Warriors.

“I feel if we come together and have a good week of practice, we’ll have a good chance to win,” Estes said. “We’ve got a lot of haters and doubters, but if we play as a team, we can do what people don’t think we can do.”

Regardless of the outcome, Estes said it won’t stop Hoover from chas ing its ultimate goal.

“Before the season, all the seniors met and said our goal was to win the state championship, nothing less,” Estes said. “When we go to practice and play games, that’s all that’s on our minds.”

Junior quarterback John Paul Head accounted for 303 yards total offense and five touchdowns as Vestavia Hills routed Oak Mountain 42-21 in Class 7A, Region 3 action at Heardmont Park.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Jordan Woolen hauls in a 51-yard touchdown pass from freshman quarter back Noah Schuback to spark the third-quarter scoring outbreak in Hoover’s 38-0 win over Chelsea Friday night.

Journal photo by

Jordan Wald

Senior outside hitter

Emily Breazeale knew she would have to elevate her game if the Jaguars were to have any designs on repeating.

Stepping Up

Breazeale Looking to Lead Spain Park to Another Volleyball Title

By RuBin E. GRant

Even though Spain Park volleyball coach Kellye Bowen has spoken little about the missing centerpiece of the 2021 Class 7A state championship team, senior outside hitter Emily Breazeale knew she would have to ele vate her game if the Jaguars were to have any designs on repeating.

All-American Audrey Rothman graduated and took her immense talents and imposing 6-foot-4 figure to Florida State after leading the Jags to their first state volleyball championship.

“Honestly, we try not to talk about Audrey because this a new team and we needed to reset,” Bowen said.

But with Rothman gone, no one had to tell Breazeale the Jags would count on her more this season, despite the presence of seven other seniors, includ ing libero Brooklyn Allison and setter Lilly Johnson, who were voted to the 2021 All-OTM team.

“I looked up to Audrey, but coming into this season, I knew I had to focus on doing what was best for the team and leading the younger players, mak ing sure they understood the sacrifices we needed to make to do well,” Breazeale said.

For much of the season, Breazeale and her teammates were somewhat inconsistent, “up and down” as she described it.

But last week everything clicked for the Jags in the Class 7A, Area 6 tourna ment as Spain Park swept HewittTrussville 25-10, 25-16, 25-18 and Oak Mountain 25-12, 25-9, 25-13 to claim the area title.

Spain Park (26-11) advanced to the

North Super Regional and will play Sparkman (43-11) at 10:15 a.m. Thursday in Huntsville at the Von Braun Center. A victory will ensure the Jags of a berth in the Elite Eight state tournament Oct. 25-27 at the Birmingham CrossPlex and Bill Harris Arena.

Breazeale was dominant in the area tournament, recording nine kills, six digs and three blocks against Hewitt and 15 kills with a .464 hitting percent age and seven digs against Oak Mountain.

“Emily had one of her best nights of volleyball of the season,” Bowen said.

Breazeale agreed with her coach’s assessment but credited her teammates for her performance.

“I think having everybody on the same page pushed me to be better, and all of us fighting for each other made a difference,” Breazeale said.

For the season, the 5-foot-10 Breazeale has 438 kills, 207 digs, 32 blocks and 21 aces.

“She has a lot of athletic ability,” Bowen said. “She’s dynamic and does a lot of things other players can’t do. Even at her height, she’s explosive. She has done a great job for our program.”

A Transfer From Georgia Breazeale didn’t arrive at Spain Park until her sophomore year, trans ferring from Etowah High School in Woodstock, Georgia. It was a seam less transition.

“I felt comfortable the whole time after transferring,” Breazeale said. “I clicked with a lot of the volleyball girls, so it was a positive transition.”

Breazeale established herself as a

solid contributor, helping the Jags fin ish as Class 7A runners-up in 2020 and winning the 2021 title, earning all-tournament honors after tallying 31 kills and 21 digs in three Elite Eight games.

During the summer this year, she earned MVP honors in the AHSAA All-Star volleyball game while play ing for the North squad.

She entered this season as one of the top seniors in the state after recording 484 kills, 258 digs and 61 aces as a junior. She has committed to the University of West Florida, which has one of the top NCAA Division II programs in the nation.

“I really wanted to play for a great program, be near the beach and in the South,” Breazeale said. “West Florida was exactly what I was looking for. I like the coaches and the players there.”

That’s next year. Right now, Breazeale is focused on winning another state championship.

“I believe in us a lot,” she said. “It’s a matter of getting the whole team to believe we can do it again.”

From page 32

10 tournament championship last week. She recorded 55 assists, eight aces, seven digs, six kills and two blocks as the Spartans swept both Woodlawn and Shades Valley 3-0 at Spartan Arena.

Mountain Brook (32-16) plays Fort Payne (33-21) at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the North Super Regional in Huntsville at the Von Braun Center. It continues the Spartans’ quest to make it back to Elite Eight state tournament next week at the Birmingham CrossPlex and Bill Harris Arena.

tournament, she surpassed 3,000 for her career.

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couple of different club teams.

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“It’s real exciting to reach that milestone, and to do it during area makes it even better,” Parant said. “Each year I’ve gotten better, but I couldn’t have achieved it without my passers and hitters. It reflects on how well they have played, too.”

2820 Petticoat Lane Mtn. Brook Village 870-5544

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Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm

This is Parant’s third season on the varsity. She was voted to the 2021 AllOTM volleyball team as a sophomore.

To: Mary Charles Robbins

“It’s exciting to win area again,” Parant said. “I feel it’s the same atmo sphere of winning last year, but it’s like a new team so it’s very different.

“We know each other better on the court and what to expect from each other. She’s my best friend and one of our best hitters. It’s just special playing with her.”

Although she’s a junior, Hannah Parant already is thinking ahead to col lege.

“I do want to play in college,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to play at the highest level.”

Gardner believes she would be an asset to any team.

“I think she can play at the next level and have an impact,” Gardner said. “Any college would be lucky to have her.”

From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax

Date: May 2010

“We’ve grown a ton this season. Going into the state playoffs, we’re feeling confident because we’ve played some of our best volleyball lately, but we’re still growing. It’s exciting to see how far we can go and also how far we’ve come.”

Parant has 975 assists, 216 kills, 286 digs, 65 blocks and 61 aces this season. With her 55 assists in the area

“I was blessed to set as a fresh man,” Parant said. “I’ve grown a ton since then and now I can help the new people on the team. Overall, every year is different but the same feeling. We train to be the best. It’s also really cool to see things on the court that I might not have seen when I was younger. I’m more a leader now.”

LEGAL NOTICE

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the June 3, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Parant also gets to play with her twin sister, Paige, a defensive special ist.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

“We’re really close,” Hannah Parant said. “I’ve been playing with her since we’ve been growing up. We started when we were 8 years old, so it’s been awhile. We’ve always played together except for maybe being on a

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

In accordance with the Code of Ala bama, 1975, notice is hereby given that CB&A Construction, LLC, has completed the contract for Hagood Street Sidewalk Project TAPBHTA19(930), and has made request for final settlement of said contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify City Hall – City of Mountain Brook, 56 Church Street, Mountain Brook, AL 35213-3700. ATTN: City Manager/Purchasing Agent.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

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To: Mary Charles Robbins

From:

Date:

The Mountain Journal,

2010

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Journal

photo by Jordan Wald

Breazeale Looking to Lead Spain Park to Another Volleyball

Bring on the Fun

Parant’s Style Invigorates Mountain Brook’s Volleyball Team

Vestavia Hills Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive

By RuBin E. GRant

HannahParant is a lovable goofball.

It shows when Mountain Brook’s junior setter plays volleyball.

“I like to think I am the goofiest player on the team,” Parant said. “I don’t think you can play volleyball if you don’t love it and have fun playing it.

“I love it so much. It’s the mix of the team part of it and details of the game that I enjoy. You’re always getting better and always growing because no one is perfect.”

BANDIT

Mountain Brook volleyball coach Mattie Gardner doesn’t have any problems with Parant’s goofiness.

“I think the coaches and her teammates adore her,” Gardner said. “She has the goofiest personali ty and brings a lot of fun into the team.”

Parant combines her fun-loving style with a business-like approach on the court.

“She’s our setter, so she’s like our quarterback out there,” Gardner said. “She’s very intellectual on the court and thinks through things, evaluating where to go with the ball and getting her team mates in the right spot.

“She loves the sport and has a natural curiosity about it and other things. She loves talking about volleyball and she’s always watching games, whether on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram or wher ever she can.

“I think she’s curious about how good she can be, where her ceiling is and how good she can push herself and her teammates to be.”

This season, the 6-foot-1 Parant has pushed herself and the Spartans into position to make a run at their fourth consecutive state championship.

She led Mountain Brook to the Class 6A, Area

FOOTBALL

Homewood Has Fun Time Clinching Its First Region Title in Five Years

By RuBin E. GRant

Homewood football coach Ben Berguson had an enjoyable evening watching his team play last Friday night at Pelham.

The Patriots turned in a virtuoso perfor mance, holding the Panthers to only 132 total yards and coming up with two interceptions while recording its first shutout of the season, 28-0.

Estes Creating Big Plays for Hoover’s Defense

By RuBin E. GRant

D.J. Estes is the bandit. At least that’s the role he plays in Hoover’s defensive scheme.

“I play the nickel safety, what we call the bandit,” Estes said. “I play in the box (near the line of scrimmage) against the run and also man-to-man

against the pass. It gives me a good chance to make plays.”

The 5-foot-9,182-pound senior defensive back has made a bunch of plays this football season for the Bucs.

Four weeks ago against Mountain Brook, Estes blitzed off the edge to sack the Spartans’ quarterback, strip ping him of the ball and recovering the fumble at the Mountain Brook 27-yard line with 21 seconds remain ing in the first half.

“I knew we were going into half time and I knew they were going to pass,” Estes said. “I saw the way the tackle was playing, the way he had positioned his hips, so I ducked

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Mountain Brook junior setter Hannah Parant combines her fun-loving style with a business-like approach on the court.

See PARANT, page 31

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

See RECAP,

30

Clay Burdeshaw came up with an interception in Homewood’s 28-0 win over Pelham Friday.

Journal

photo by Jordan Wald