Angels in Pink PAGE 10 « Fashion Show Spotlights Breast Cancer Survivors PAGE 10 Businesses Unite to Support Breast Cancer Research PAGE 8
BEACH-BOUND
Sainju’s
Guest Column Inside
READY, SET, SHOP
Junior League’s annual shopping discount event starts Oct. 16 PAGE 6 FOUNDATIONAL SUPPORT
Putting on Fall-Colored Glasses
Ihaven’t given the fall season enough credit.
Don’t get me wrong. It’s been my favorite season throughout most of my adult life.
It’s a preference that dates to when I used to teach high school, and fall marked the beginning of the school year. As such, it came to symbolize a blank slate and fresh start, a time when every student could still get an A, every lesson could still be a success, everybody could still get along.
Homewood First Responders 5K Set for Oct 19 PAGE 6 TOP STUDENTS
OTM students chosen as National Merit Semifinalists PAGE 19
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 3, 2024
Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald
Copy Editor: Virginia Martin
Features Writer: Donna Cornelius
Staff Writers: June Mathews, Anne Ruisi
Photographer: Jordan Wald
Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant
Contributors: Eve Byrne, Solomon Crenshaw Jr., Ana Good, Madoline Markham Koonce, Lee Hurley, Susan Swagler
Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Gail Kidd
Even now, I am captivated by the possibilities and maybes it offers.
Maybe my football team of choice will end up in the national championship. Maybe warmly hued knickknacks will turn my home into a cozy haven where everyone sits in armchairs and reads “The Canterbury Tales.” Maybe the falling leaves and cool grass will entice my family to throw footballs on the lawn. Maybe the seasonal spiced mocha will taste as tantalizing as it looks on Instagram. Heck, maybe I’ll even take a day trip to an orchard and pick apples.
KRISSIE ALLEN
The older I get, however, the more I admire something even more special about fall. And it’s not the cooling temperatures (though those are welcome).
But my appreciation for the season has, to date, mostly rested on the rosecolored, head-in-the-clouds optimism it offered, the kind that is easy to have before time proves you wrong – before my team loses the championship, my family refuses to read or spend more than five minutes outside, the mocha triggers digestive problems, or I realize I don’t like apples.
The older I get, however, the more I admire something even more special about fall. And it’s not the cooling temperatures (though those are welcome).
What is truly remarkable about the fall season is it keeps coming back.
Yes, it lures me in with its possibilities, but it’s also got a kind of fighting spirit that continues to do so even
Over the Mountain Views
after other seasons – after life – have chipped away at it. It’s a tricky thing to do, if you ask me.
After all, for many of us, one of the greatest obstacles to maintaining our own spirit of possibilities and freshness is actual experience. We might lose the job we expected to be in forever. We might have our dreams destroyed. We might watch a loved one make drastic mistakes. We might have important relationships fall apart. We might find our good health deteriorates.
When such realities rear their ugly heads and interrupt our great expectations or sense of “what if,” it’s easy to think “why bother?” and stop having such expectations. It’s even easier to stop smiling, grow jaded and stop dreaming altogether.
That’s why I find fall so inspiring. In many ways, it is a good-news season that doesn’t let disappointments or realities overshadow what it offers in the present or promises in the future. It knows what last year held –the good and the bad – but it shows up again and again with its crisp air and promises … and new maybes.
Maybe another job will prove more suitable or fulfilling. Maybe the destroyed dream needs to evolve into another. Maybe the loved one will find their way. Maybe the broken relationship will heal. Maybe we’ll do as much as we can despite our ailments. And maybe all our realities will make us a little smarter, wiser and stronger so we’ll be ready to start all over again.
Yes, fall deserves more credit. I even think we could all be more like it. In fact, if you see me with a smile on my face when there’s nothing much to smile about, it’s not because I’m hiding behind rose-colored glasses. It’s because I’ve put on my fall-colored ones.
RETAIL RECOGNITION
Bandwagon named Alabama Emerging Retailer of the Year PAGE 11
Mountain Brook High School celebrated Homecoming Week with a slew of activities, including a parade through Crestline on Sept. 27 that was bursting with school spirit. The school’s football team magnified that joy that evening when the Spartans defeated Homewood 27-22 on the gridiron.
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Thurs., Oct. 3
Vestavia Hills Community Night Out
Join the Vestavia Hills Police Department for a night of free family fun, fellowship, and promoting public safety. Community Night Out is an opportunity for first responders to network with the community. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a night with jump houses, a photobooth, pumpkin patch, free food and more! When: 5-7:30 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall
Mtn Brook Community Night Out
Mark your calendars for the Mountain Brook Police and Fire Departments’ first-ever Community Night Out! Come out to support and get to know the city’s first responders and enjoy free food and entertainment, including Touch-A-Truck, face painting, balloon artists, bounce house, lawn games and more! When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Mountain Brook Municipal Complex
Fri., Oct. 4
Putts for Paws
When does eating lunch and playing golf help our four-legged friends?
When it’s time for the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s annual Putts for Paws golf tournament. The society’s Young Professionals Board is holding the event, which features 18 holes for each player. There will also be a silent auction and the chance to win some amazing prizes by participating in fun and challenging games throughout the afternoon. When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Highland Park Golf Course
Bargain Bazaar Pre-Sale Party
There’s fun to be had while you shop early at the Pre-Sale Party for Vestavia Hills Methodist Church Bargain Bazaar! Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and live music, with ticket sales supporting Royal Divinity Ministries’ fund drive to replace its roof. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: Former Central Elementary School, 1289 Montgomery Highway
Oct. 4-20
Psycho Beach Party
“Gidget”, Frankie and Annette beach party epics, and Hitchcock psychological suspense thrillers such as “Spellbound” and “Marnie” are given a shotgun marriage. Chicklet Forrest, a teenage tomboy, desperately wants to be part of the surf crowd on Malibu Beach in 1962. One thing getting in her way is her unfortunate tendency towards split personalities. When: Various showtimes Where: Birmingham Festival Theatre
Sat., Oct. 5
Bluff Park Art Show
The always-popular event celebrates the 61st annual art show at Bluff
Park Community Park in Hoover. Art in a variety of mediums created by 124 artists from across the country is the draw for 3,000 to 4,000 art lovers and other visitors each year. When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Bluff Park Community Park, 517 Cloudland Drive, Hoover
Bargain Bazaar
Shop for the best bargains in town at Vestavia Methodist Church’s Bargain Bazaar! There will be a soft drink trailer selling sodas for $1 and sales are by cash and card only. Unsold donations will be picked up by The Lovelady Center, Royal Divinity Ministries and Sozo. When: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Former Central Elementary School, 1289 Montgomery Highway Cash & Card only
Jimmie Hale Mission’s Rescue Run Run and raise money for a good cause at the 5th annual Jimmie Hale Mission Rescue Run! Races will include a 10K, 5K, and 1 Mile Fun Run. The runs begin and end in front of Cava in Homewood When: 6:30-9:45 a.m. Where: Cava, on 29th Avenue South between 18th Street and 19th Street, Homewood.
Oct. 5 and 12
Peter and the Wolf
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs this classic work by Sergei Prokofiev in BCT’s Mainstage Theatre. The tale of “Peter and the Wolf” comes to life in a captivating theatrical performance blending music, narration, and movement for children 6 and older. When: 11 a.m. Where: Birmingham Children’s Theatre
Sun., Oct 6
BHM26.2
The BHM26.2 charitable race series benefits Magic Moments. Comprised of a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5k and kid’s fun run, BHM26.2 brings over 2,000 runners to Hoover, with an after party following the races. When: Events kick off at 7 a.m. Where: Hoover Metropolitan Complex
Dru Hill
From soul-stirring ballads to infectious dance anthems, Dru Hill has been the heartbeat of R&B for over two decades. When: 7 p.m. Where: Alys Stephens Center
Mon., Oct. 7
A Seat at the Table Dinner
This fundraiser for Urban Purpose, a nonprofit that serves the homeless seeks to set a record for “The Biggest Table in Birmingham” while serving Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q Live music and lots of fun will be on hand! For tickets, visit urbanpurpose.org. When: 5:30-7 p.m. Where: West Green at Birmingham’s Railroad Park
Taste of Hope
Three distinct oyster varieties with appropriate wine pairings take center stage at the Taste of Hope benefit for
From left, Gus Mayer
President Charles Mallett; Fashion Show Chair, Valerie Lightfoot; Linly Heflin President, Sumner Starling; Gus Mayer CEO, Jeff Pizitz.
Veronica Beard Headlines 65th Annual Scholarship Fashion Show
Linly Heflin will celebrate its 65th annual Scholarship Fashion Show on Wed., Oct. 16 at The Club. The evening kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by the fashion show at 7 p.m.
The annual fashion show is the primary fundraiser for Linly Heflin and will be presented in partnership with Gus Mayer. The event will highlight featured designer Veronica Beard as well as the latest fall fashions from Gus Mayer. The show’s chair is Valerie Lightfoot, and co-chair is Courtney Stephens. The President of Linly Heflin is Sumner Starling.
For over 100 years, Linly Heflin has been awarding college scholarships to Alabama women to attend Alabama colleges and universities. This year, 92 young Alabama women will receive scholarships of $10,000 per year for four years to pursue undergraduate degrees at Alabama schools. Many are the first in their family to attend college. Recipients of Linly Heflin scholarships must demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a critical need for financial support.
Visit linlyheflin.org for more information or to purchase tickets to the show.
the Hollingsworth Colorectal Cancer Awareness Fund. The fund works to raise awareness of the benefits of early detection of colorectal cancer. When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Food Bar: 3156 Heights Village, Cahaba Heights
Fri., Oct. 11
Three on a String
These guys are a Homewood Theatre favorite! Three on a String is a member of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame and their combination of folk music and good-natured humor has been entertaining folks for over 50 years. When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Theatre
Sat., Oct. 12
CahabaQue
Support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama at the annual CahabaQue BBQ cook-off! Savor Birmingham’s finest backyard BBQ, craft beer and live music. Kids and pets are welcome. For tickets and more information, visit.bcrfa.org/ events/cahabaque When: noon-4p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Co.
Charles Ghigna Book Signing Children’s author Charles Ghigna,
Oct. 16-27
Shop Save and Share Fundraiser
The Junior League of Birmingham’s 19th annual Shop Save and Share fundraiser is back! Buy a $40 card from the league and get 20% off at 250 area retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues from Oct. 16-27. The sale benefits the league’s Building Partnerships for a Better Birmingham. To learn more and buy a card, visit shopsaveandshare.net.
Thurs., Oct. 17
Barketoberfest
A festive evening is in store at Barktoberfest, a benefit for Hand in Paw, which provides animal-assisted therapy to improve human health and well-being. The fun will include a pet costume contest and a stein hoist competition for those ready to test their strength. When: 6-9 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Co.
Samara Joy
Grammy Award winner Samara Joy is a musical sensation considered to be the first Gen Z jazz singing star. Her voice is rich and velvety, and her performances have drawn rave reviews. When: 7 p.m. Where: Alys Stephens Center
Birmingham Children’s Theatre Gala
Experience An Enchanted Evening in the Emerald City at this gala dedicated to children’s theatre in Birmingham. Food, drinks, entertainment and sharing the evening with fellow community members who share a passion for nurturing young talent is in store. For more information, visit bct123.org or call 205-458-8181.
Oct. 17-19
also known as “Father Goose,” will be signing copies of his new book, “Bound to Dream: An Immigrant Story” When: 1 p.m. Where: Barnes & Noble, Patton Creek Shopping Center, Hoover
Oct. 12 and 26
Oak Hill Cemetery Fall History Tour
Meet colorful characters – the famous and infamous - from Birmingham’s “buried” history with this tour of Oak Hill Cemetery. Proceeds will go toward the maintenance and restoration of the historic cemetery. For more information and tickets, visit oakhillbirmingham.org. When: 10
a.m.-noon Where: Oak Hill Cemetery, downtown Birmingham
Tues., Oct. 15
Legislative Update
Hear the latest news on the legislative front from U.S. Rep Terri Sewell at the Homewood Chamber of Commerce’s October luncheon. Reservations to attend must be made with the chamber by Oct. 10. When: 11:30
a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Valley Hotel, Homewood
Homewood Library Book Sale
Fill a bag with books for $7 as the Friends of the Homewood Library hold a book sale. Bags will be provided and all proceeds will benefit the Homewood Public Library. When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Homewood Library Friends Bookstore
Fri., Oct. 18
Alabama Symphony Orchestra Super Pops!
The ASO’s Back to the 80s concert brings to life classic hits that defined a generation with artists like Elton John, Madonna, Billy Joel, Steve Winwood, Cyndi Lauper and much more. When: 7 p.m. Where: BJCC Concert Hall
Putt for Pitt Hopkins Golf Tournament
Help raise awareness of Pitt Hopkins Syndrome and raise funds for the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation at this 4th annual golf tournament. The event is being held in honor of Homewood resident John Wesley Holley, among others in Alabama. When: 9 a.m. Where: Highland Park Golf Course
YOUR HEALTH YOUR STATUS
READY, SET, SHOP
Junior League’s Annual Shopping Discount Event Starts Oct. 16
The Junior League of Birmingham is launching its annual Shop Save & Share fundraising event this month to give shoppers a break at local businesses while raising money to fund programs that provide services communitywide.
For $40, shoppers can buy the JLB card and then get 20% discounts at 300 local stores, restaurants and attractions, sometimes with a bit of lagniappe.
The shopping event stretches over 12 days, Oct. 16 to Oct. 27. Shoppers can shop at their leisure either at the stores or, in some cases, online.
JLB will launch the event with a Shop Save & Share Kickoff Party on Oct. 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in front of Mountain Brook City Hall. The event will feature small bites, drinks, music and swag bag giveaways for the first 25 attendees. Cards also will be for sale at the event.
Businesses taking part in the event stretch from Hoover to Trussville, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Mt. Laurel. They include Alabama Outdoors, Diamond’s Direct, The Lili Pad, Monograms Plus, Bromberg’s, Parent-Teacher Store, Anthropologie, HaMi, Jack n’Jill
Shop, Taco Mama, Taziki’s, Mountain Brook Creamery, New York Butcher Shoppe, Otey’s Tavern, the Birmingham Zoo and Birmingham Children’s Theatre, among many others.
Shoppers can peruse the stores taking part in the sale and their offers for the event, as well as buy a Shop Save & Share card, at shopsaveandshare. net.
Proceeds from card sales benefit 24 JLB community projects, which this year focus on four areas – advancing education and culture, improving health and well-being, mitigating crisis and promoting safety, and overcoming poverty and financial instability.
Program partners include Grace Klein Community, ¡HICA!, Vineyard Family Services, Cornerstone Schools of Alabama, Girls Inc., Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, Children’s of Alabama, Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center, YWCA, Mothers’ Milk Bank of Alabama, JLB’s Anti-Human Trafficking Program and others.
Over the past 18 years, Shop Save & Share has raised more than $780,000 for the JLB’s community projects.
JLB Shop Save & Share chair Danielle Whitlock said she’s always excited for the event.
“We are able to raise funds for our 24 community partners while supporting local businesses and helping shoppers save money,” she said. “I cannot think of a better or more fun way to help improve the lives of the people in our community and help build a stronger Birmingham. I am proud to be a small part of something with such an incredible impact.”
Royal Watchers Can Visit With India Hicks During Mentone Weekend
India Hicks, daughter of renowned decorator David Hicks, will be visiting with fans and signing copies of her book about her mother and royal
connections during a weekend retreat at Andiamo Lodge in Mentone on Oct. 11-12.
Hicks, the goddaughter of King Charles, will sign copies of “Lady Pamela: My Mother’s Extraordinary Years as Daughter to the Viceroy of India, Lady-in-Waiting to the Queen and Wife of David Hicks,” during an event that Saturday. In the book, she delves into the stories, images and treasures found in her parents’ archives, including letters from the queen to her once bridesmaid and lady-in-waiting.
Hicks also will have a pop-up shop of her Bahamian boutique, The
Sugar Mill, at The Gallery by Andiamo at Moon Lake Village in Mentone. It will display her collection of island-inspired clothing, home decor, gifts, accessories and collectibles that Friday and Saturday.
The weekend culminates in an elegant dinner, the second in the lodge’s “Conversations at the Andiamo Table” series, in which Hicks is expected to talk about her personal stories of growing up royal, her contributions in the design world from hotels to home collections, her work on the frontlines of disaster relief with the
By Anne Ruisi
Homewood is a running community, so organizers of the annual First Responders 5K have high expectations for this year’s event, set for Oct. 19.
“This is our major fundraiser for the police and fire departments, and we hope to have another great crowd,” said Paul DeMarcco, president of the Homewood Police Foundation, which is organizing the event with the Homewood Fire Foundation.
The event will feature a 5K race and a 1-mile Fun Run. Both races will begin and end at the Trak Shak in downtown Homewood and follow a route through the area. It promises to be a family-friendly morning, with police officers and their vehicles, firefighters with fire trucks, and McGruff the Crime Dog on hand.
Funds raised will be shared by both foundations, which offer citizen support to the police and fire departments.
For example, since its founding in 2005, the police foundation has donated equipment to various divisions in the department, such as to school resource officers, and done what it could to support morale and connect officers with residents, DeMarco said.
That includes supporting the Citizens Academy, which educates residents on police officer duties and how the department functions. Once a month, the foundation enlists local businesses and brings lunch to one of the police department’s divisions. At Christmas, every department employee gets a gift card from Piggly
Global Empowerment Mission and her outreach with vulnerable young people as part of The Prince’s Trust.
“We are delighted to host India and share her book, style collections, and stories in our intimate artistic retreat in the beautiful mountains of Mentone,” says Andiamo Lodge co-owner Colleen
Wiggly. When a police department employee retires, the foundation will give him or her a gift.
“We want to make sure that our police officers know that the citizens support the officers, day in and day out, and appreciate what they do,” DeMarco said.
The 5K race is “another way for them to get out and support the first responders, while at the same time taking part in a great race, a great family event in downtown Homewood,” he added.
For more information and to sign up for the First Responders 5K, visit runsignup.com and search for The Homewood First Responders 5K.
Duffley, an international magazine and commercial photographer and longtime friend of Hicks.
“We well know it’s a rare opportunity to have India to ourselves for an entire weekend, so we are excited to make it a truly unforgettable experience of literary, artistic, and culinary excellence.”
by JSWshoots
Acrylic on canvas by Maya Eventov
Acrylic by Maya Eventov
Photo
Tasc Performance in Mountain Brook is one of the many Over The Mountain businesses participating in Shop Save & Share. Store manager Mary Glen Carlton, above.
photo by Jordan Wald
Courtesy Andiamo at Moon Lake Village
India Hicks
OTM Halloween Events Offer Treats, Not Tricks
Get your costumes ready for spooky fun this month as Over the Mountain communities celebrate Halloween with a variety of familyfriendly activities and one for adults. Festivals, witches’ rides, trick-ortreating and a parade are among the events set this month.
Sat., Oct. 12
Grace House Pumpkin Festival
Get ready for a fun-filled day at the 11th annual Grace House Pumpkin Festival, with games, inflatables and delicious fall treats! Each child’s ticket comes with a pumpkin, a goody bag and access to all games and inflatables, such as a spider climb, at the festival. Adult entry is free. All proceeds benefit the 40 girls in foster care who call Grace House home. When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Homewood Central Park
Bash on the Bluff
Come join us at the 2nd Annual Bash on the Bluff! Bring the whole family to the heart of Bluff Park and join us for live music, food trucks, a local vendor market, inflatables, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and so much more! Admission is free. Learn more at bashonthebluff.com or email bluffparkevents@gmail.
com. When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Park at Church on the Bluff, 2211 McGwier Road or Shades Mountain Community Church, 2325 Tyler Road for shuttle buses to the bash. Shuttles will run 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Handicap parking will be available on site.
Oct. 12-13, Oct. 19-20 and Oct. 26-27
Hoots and Howls at the Birmingham Zoo
Calling all ghouls and goblins, it’s almost time to trick-or-treat around the zoo at the annual Hoots & Howls events! Work your way through the new owl hay maze, then find the hidden coyote figures around the zoo in the scavenger hunt. Interactive animal shows will be at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Gigi’s Porch in Alabama Wilds. When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Birmingham Zoo
Thurs., Oct. 17
Paws and Pints
Enter your pet in a costume contest and have fun at the Paws and Pints event benefitting Studio By The Tracks. The studio is a nonprofit community art studio for people with autism. When: 5:30-8 p.m. Where: TrimTab Brewing Company
Sat., Oct. 19
Haunt the Hills
The Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce will hold the third annual Haunt the Hills Trick-or-
Treat Night at Wald Park. Sponsor businesses will be setting up booths on the lawn to give out candy and other promotional information. When: 4:30-6 p.m., with a movie starting at 6:30 p.m. Where: Grand Lawn, Wald Park
Sat., Oct. 26
Halloween in the Heights and Witches Ride
Trick or Treat with the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association! Businesses will be full of treats for the entire family, and then enjoy the after party at Heights Village with live music on the patio, along with Mr. Larry the Balloon Guy and more children’s activities. When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Where: 3138 Heights Village, Cahaba Heights
Libby’s Friends: Franks & Steins
Celebrate Halloween and Oktoberfest at the 2nd annual Franks N’ Steins party to support Libby’s Friends, a nonprofit organization that aims to ease the financial burden for families living with a disability. The familyfriendly event will feature costume contests, stein hosting, a hot dog eating contest, live music and more! When: Noon-5 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Company
Trunk or Treat
Head to the Shades Valley YMCA for family-friendly Halloween fun! Treats, food, face painting, a trunk decoration contest and games are among the activities planned. When: 3-5 p.m. Where: Shades Valley YMCA
Sun., Oct. 27
Fall Festival and Homewood Witches Ride
Rides, games, food trucks, music from a DJ, the Homewood High School Drumline, a costume contest and lots of candy await those attending this beloved community party. It’s also fun with a purpose, as the Witches Ride benefits the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. When: Fall Festival 2-5p.m. Withces Ride begins after the festival Where: Homewood Central Park
Vestavia Hills Baptist Church
Fall Fest
Plan to spend a terrific evening filled with friends and fun! Hot dogs and chips, drinks, music performed by church members, games, an inflatable and Trunk or Treat will be featured. Participants are welcome to dress up in costumes. When: 4-6 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills Baptist Church
Halloween parade featuring an array of floats, the Mountain Brook High School Marching Band and beads, T-shirts, stuffed animals and moon pies among the goodies tossed to spectators. When: Starts at 4 p.m. Where: Begins at Mountain Brook Baptist Church, to Montevallo Road, to Church Street through Crestline Village, to Euclid Avenue and ends at Vine Street.
Hoover Met Spookfest
Come dressed to impress in your Halloween Best! An evening of fun is on hand at the Hoover Met at a free party with music, food, trick or treating, giveaways and more. When: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Hoover Met RV Park at the Hoover Met Complex
Vulcan’s Spooktacular
Thurs, Oct. 31
Mystics of Mountain Brook
Halloween Parade
The Mystics of Mountain Brook will stage their 22nd Mardi Gras-inspired
Grab candy at trick-or-treating stations throughout the museum, enjoy photo opportunities around the park, music, kid friendly activities and complimentary popcorn and refreshments along with wine, beer, and cocktails for adults. The Iron Man himself will be on hand in a Halloween costume. New this year is an adultonly Halloween party, featuring a costume contest and pumpkin carving. Learn more at visitvulcan. com/event/vulcans-spooktacular. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: Vulcan Park & Museum
The popular Homewood Witches Ride, above, is set for Sun., Oct. 27. Left, the Mystics of Mountain Brook Halloween Parade is Thur., Oct. 31.
Journal file photos by Jordan Wald
WOMEN’S HEALTH | SPECIAL SECTION
A Journey Through Adversity
Suzan Doidge Reflects on Her Battle with Breast Cancer
By AnA Good
In Mountain Brook, Suzan
Doidge has been known for her vibrant spirit and unwavering commitment to her community.
Having worked as executive director for the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce for more than a decade, Doidge is a well-known figure in the city she’s called home for more than 42 years.
Four years ago, Doidge was a familiar face at every city event, always immersed in the bustle of everyday life.
“I was always moving in a fast direction on the way to the next event or to the next meeting,” Doidge recalled.
Then, suddenly, everything changed.
Doidge’s life took an unexpected turn in August 2019 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer – a journey that would challenge her in ways she never anticipated.
The Diagnosis
Doidge’s cancer journey began innocuously, with a routine mammogram that prompted further investigation.
“I went for a regular checkup,” she recalled.
Her doctor, Carol Swindle, had emphasized the importance of the checkup, noting it had been two years since Doidge’s last visit. The routine mammogram revealed an area in her right breast that needed further examination.
“I think the story here is, go for your regular checkup every year,” Doidge said. “I think so many women that work hard and have children, sometimes they just forget or they don’t think it’s a priority.”
Swindle referred Doidge to Dr. Timothy Bullock, a surgeon, who performed a biopsy. Bullock discovered a small cancerous spot that initially seemed manageable with a lumpectomy. However, a follow-up MRI revealed a more significant issue – a 6-centimeter mass in her left breast.
“It was 6 centimeters lobular behind the breastplate, which means it’s very hard to detect on a regular mammogram,” Doidge explained.
“Had he not recommended the MRI, I would have been in serious trouble later on.”
The Treatment Journey
In October 2019, Doidge underwent a double mastectomy, which initially seemed to bring good news. Her surgeon indicated that all the cancer was removed and that her lymph nodes were clear.
Yet, the following day, she faced the crushing reality that cancer had, indeed, spread to her lymph nodes. This news marked the beginning of aggressive treatments at the Bruno Cancer Center at St. Vincent’s Hospital.
Doidge began chemotherapy in December 2019 with a drug cocktail known as “Red Devil.”
“Going through chemo, who wants to be in the situation where you’re literally going weekly in some cases for treatment?” she lamented. “I’d sit there and I’d look around the room and I’d see people that were much
Businesses and organizations in Alabama this month are uniting to raise funds to support breast cancer research in the state.
October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and more than 20 entities – from car dealerships to schools, banks and real estate
brokerages – are eager to make a significant impact, according to a press release from the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama.
younger than I am who were really sick. I got to be close to a couple of people through the process that were facing serious outcomes and terminal illnesses. It was really sad, but it also made me realize how precious life is.”
Despite the daunting treatment schedule, Doidge managed to maintain her routine, often returning to her office at City Hall, where the COVID-19 pandemic’s lockdown provided her the opportunity to balance her work and recovery.
“I was able to go to work and sit in my office and interact with people on the phone,” she recalled, appreciating the normalcy amid the chaos of her diagnosis.
The Power of Community
Throughout her treatment, Doidge found immense strength in her community. She described the overwhelming support from friends, family and members of her church, Saint Luke’s, who organized prayer gatherings and offered countless acts of kindness.
“I couldn’t believe how many people would call me up and say, ‘I’m praying for you,”’ she said. “The food and the cards from people I didn’t
even know. There’s even one person, who I’ve never met, who still checks on me like once a quarter.”
One memorable moment occurred when a prayer group from Church of the Highlands, many of whom she’d never met, showed up at her house in droves.
“I asked a couple of my neighbors, ‘Hey, some folks from Church of the Highlands are coming to pray for me. Y’all wanna join us?’ We thought it was going to be four or five people, and her husband, Neil, looks up at the street and says, ‘Hey, someone must be having a party.’ About 25 people showed up!” she laughed, the joy of community evident in her recounting.
Reflections on Life and Healing
Doidge’s battle with cancer taught her profound lessons about life, priorities and the human experience.
“This does make you think differently about life – how you live your life and who’s in your life,” she reflected. “It’s been a journey that I wouldn’t wish on anybody, but for me, under the circumstances, it was not that bad.”
She noted the emotional toll of cancer treatment, which can be profoundly isolating.
“If you talk to anybody that’s been through cancer treatments, first of all, it’s very depressing. It’s sad. It’s just something nobody wants to go to. It’s a club you never want to be in,” she admitted.
Yet, Doidge emerged with a renewed appreciation for the small things – “the pretty day, a great walk, your friends and your kids” – that now seemed more precious than ever.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including hair loss and physical changes from treatment, Doidge remained determined to share her story and help others navigating similar paths.
“Once you’re in this club, you feel a responsibility to pay it forward,” she said. “ I have tried to be a resource, and I have had people call me for advice. I never planned on
being someone who was going to join the cancer support group or have the pink shirt on or the tag on my car, but you have to pay it forward. For those people who did so much for me, I’m trying to do the same. I’ve had a lot of folks reach out to me who wanted advice. I can say ‘Here’s what worked for me and this may work for you.’”
The Ongoing Journey
After more than a year of aggressive treatment, including multiple weeks of Red Devil chemotherapy, 38 radiation treatments and another 12 weeks of treatment with Taxol, Doidge underwent her final surgery, a breast reconstruction, in early 2021.
Looking back on her journey, she expresses deep gratitude for her care team and the community that supported her, emphasizing “the power of people and prayer,” on her experience.
After 14 years with the chamber, Doidge announced her retirement in early 2022. Today, Doidge is cherishing the simple joys of life.
“I really do cherish every day. I look for the positive, not the negative,” she noted. “I think I did learn a lot through this journey. I’m hopeful that I’ll continue to feel as good as I do.”
In sharing her experience, Doidge has become an advocate for early detection and the importance of regular health checkups.
“The big takeaway is to make sure you go and have a checkup every year,” she urged. “Take advantage of people who have been on this path because their advice is invaluable.”
As she continues to navigate life post-treatment and with regular checkups on the horizon, Doidge remains committed to helping others facing similar battles.
She is eagerly embracing the opportunity to enjoy retirement life with her husband, Neil, and their two children, Anne Raines and Campbell. She looks forward to more travels to Europe and Colorado, where her adult children now live, and one day hopes to cradle future grandchildren.
Doidge holds on to hope and the belief that she has much more life to live.
“I feel like I’ve got a lot of life to live and hope to live it as long as I can and as healthy as I can,” she said.
Thirty years ago, 4 out of 5 breast cancer patients did not survive, but today, there has been significant progress, with 4 out of 5 breast cancer patients overcoming the disease.
The funds raised by these partners will go toward research into breast cancer diagnostics, treatments and prevention methods. Every dollar stays in Alabama, but the impact is worldwide, the release stated.
“The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is dedicated to supporting local research and raising awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with the goal of ensuring a healthier future for all,” said President and CEO Beth Davis. “It’s incredibly moving to see our partners come together in support of our mission. It fills me with hope and inspiration for a future
free from breast cancer, made possible by groundbreaking research.”
“Funding for research remains critical,” Alabama Businesses Unite to Support Breast Cancer Research
In 2023, the BCRFA invested more than $1.25 million in 35 groundbreaking projects across seven Alabama-based institutes, thanks in part to its Breast Cancer Awareness Month partners. The organization is scheduled to announce its 2024 grant awards in December, further highlighting its dedication to fostering life-saving research.
See RESEARCH, page 10
Suzan Doidge is eagerly embracing the opportunity to enjoy retirement life with her husband, Neil, and their two children, Anne Raines and Campbell.
Award-winning maternity care, designed just for you
Whether you are expecting your first baby or are an experienced mom, there’s comfort in knowing you have a trusted healthcare partner to guide you every step of the way. But don’t take our word for it. St. Vincent’s is a Birmingham favorite of moms and families alike, as voted on by readers of Birmingham Parent magazine.
“Awards like these are the best because they’re voted on by our patients and their families,” said Madonna Nichols, Director of Women’s Services at Ascension St. Vincent’s. “Our care teams work hard to support expectant moms and their families with customized care delivered in a safe, compassionate environment. We love what we do.”
“FAVORITE PLACE TO HAVE A BABY”
When you choose St. Vincent’s, your journey to parenthood begins with a one-on-one meeting (in-person or virtually) with an RN maternity navigator. As your personal point of contact, your navigator will answer questions and discuss the many services and birthing aids available to customize your birthing experience and make you as comfortable as possible during your labor, delivery and postpartum care.
This includes:
• Individual and group tours of St. Vincent’s Labor and Delivery Unit and birthing suites.
• Interactive classes on baby care, childbirth, infant and child safety, and breastfeeding.
• Information and classes on “Spinning Babies®,“ an innovative birthing technique that focuses on body movements and fetal rotation to decrease the need for unnecessary interventions
during childbirth.
• Our Monogram Maternity Boutique, which features products selected by nurses and lactation consultants to support you and your baby.
• Prenatal lactation consultations, post-delivery support in the hospital, one-on-one lactation support (in-person or virtually) and breastfeeding support groups after baby arrives.
• Support for first-time parents and couples seeking adoption or surrogacy.
“We’re here to help answer questions and provide the support and personalized maternity care you need, including options to match your birthing experience preferences,” Nichols said.
“FAVORITE BIRTHING SUITES”
Care for moms and their babies is also
designed with your comfort in mind. St. Vincent’s is the only hospital in Birmingham that has spacious birthing suites for labor, delivery and postpartum care all in one room. And, if your baby needs extra support after birth, they will be cared for in our newly renovated neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, you and your baby may need more care. Maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists have advanced training to care for complex pregnancies. We offer one-on-one support from specialty-trained nurses to help you manage health concerns and group programs with other parents to help you adjust to having a baby in the NICU.
“FAVORITE WOMEN’S HEALTH FACILITY”
St. Vincent’s is not just here for you before, during and after childbirth — we’re here with personalized care for every stage of life. Schedule yearly exams and screenings. Find support for gynecologic and pelvic health. Get care for menopause symptoms and other health concerns that arise as you age. If you are facing a new diagnosis, we can also provide you with a second opinion.
“As a woman, there’s comfort and convenience in having all the health services you need in one location,” Nichols said. “With comprehensive services delivered by trusted healthcare specialists, we provide care for the whole you, right here at St. Vincent’s.”
Call 205-212-MOMS (6667) for more information or visit us at ascension.org/StVincentsALBaby.
Mom always has a “favorite”
Mom might not have a favorite child, but she does have a favorite place to have her baby (or babies). And that place is St. Vincent’s, where we have a nurse navigator who listens to your preferences, prenatal and postnatal classes, and advanced care if you or your baby needs it. So start a conversation with an OB-GYN at St. Vincent’s — it’s Mom’s favorite for a whole lot of reasons.
Call 205-212-MOMS (6667) or visit ascension.org/StVincentsALBaby to find a doctor.
By June Mathews
In 1999, breast cancer patient Jan Bolla saw a need and set out to meet it.
Through her own experience, she realized that women newly diagnosed with breast cancer would benefit from interacting with women like her who had traveled the same road.
Spurred on by her motto, “Do not
Angels in Pink
waste your journey, and leave a legacy behind,” Bolla worked with Madeline Harris, nurse coordinator at the UAB Breast Health Center, to assess specific needs and formulate a plan. Then they began to identify potential helpers.
An invitation to become involved went out to 89 women; 51 of those women responded. In March 2000, 30 women trained for volunteer service, and the Angel Squad was born. Bolla served as the group’s first president.
Today, the 27 members of the Angel Squad operate as part of UAB Volunteer Services, volunteering in the Breast Health Center and Mammography at the Kirklin Clinic. Dedicated to providing hope, comfort and compassionate care to breast cancer patients, their families and their caregivers, the Angel Squad members, as a group, volunteer more than 2,000 hours per year.
Sheila Smith of Vestavia joined
the Angel Squad after retiring 10 years ago. As a 15-year survivor of breast cancer, she was once the beneficiary of the Angel Squad’s kindness. It was only natural that she would want to extend the same care to others.
“They were very kind to me when I had breast cancer, so I wanted to help them and give back,” she said. “Every time I visit with a patient in our clinics, I receive a greater blessing than I give, and it is so humbling to see how appreciative our patients are of the services we provide.”
Services include providing snacks, juice and coffee to patients and their families while they’re in the clinic for tests and doctors’ appointments; listening to patients as they share their fears and concerns; passing out hugs and words of encouragement; talking with patients about self-care during treatment and addressing their individual needs; and providing tote bags
packed with heart-shaped pillows and gift bags on the day newly diagnosed patients receive their treatment plan from their team of doctors.
Gifts of Hearts
The heart-shaped pillows, Smith said, are made by a group of women at Asbury United Methodist Church.
“The pillow is a great comfort under your seat belt during treatments and after surgery,” Smith said. “The seat belt fits perfectly in the ‘V’ at the top of the pillow, which keeps the belt off tender treatment sites. It can also be used under the patient’s arm to protect tender areas there. One grandmother shared with us that she used the pillow against her chest so she could snuggle with her grandchildren.”
Another important function of the Angel Squad is promoting breast cancer awareness at every opportunity.
“And everywhere we go we encourage women to get their mammograms,” Smith said. “Early detection saves lives.”
The group recently participated in a Health and Wellness Fair at Saint James Missionary Baptist Church, and two members will soon appear on ABC 33/40’s Talk of Alabama to promote Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On Oct. 10, the Angel Squad will appear with Russell Jones on Good Day Alabama to talk about a Breast Cancer Awareness Month promotion in partnership with the Brighton store at The Summit.
“Brighton Jewelry is a national supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness,” Smith said. “Each year, the company designs a bracelet to sell at the Power of Pink promotion in October, and each Brighton store selects a local organization to partner with during the promotion. The Brighton store at The Summit has selected the Angel Squad for many years.”
Other community partners include Jim N’ Nick’s, which donates a portion of the proceeds from designated gift card sales, and Jeffrey Machine. Jeff Sager, the owner of Jeffrey Machine, lost his wife to breast cancer and is now married to a breast cancer survivor.
Bolla lost her battle with breast cancer in July 2009, but her legacy lives on.
“We honor Jan every year by awarding the Jan Bolla Volunteer of the Year Award to one Angel Squad member,” Smith said. “We will never forget Jan for organizing the Angel Squad and for her service.”
Haute Pink Fashion
Show Spotlights Breast Cancer Survivors
Ten area women affected by breast cancer will walk the catwalk in bespoke fashions during Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center’s fourth annual Haute Pink Fashion Show.
Local designers have created customized designs for each of the women walking in Haute Pink, an event designed to focus a spotlight on the 1 in 8 women and 1 in 1,000 men in Alabama diagnosed with breast cancer.
The fundraiser will be Oct. 17 at Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus. Money raised during the event will benefit Forge’s mission to improve the quality of life for Alabama breast cancer patients, survivors, their caregivers and loved ones.
Sol y Luna created the signature cocktail and mocktail for the event – the Prickly Pear Margarita. Will Lochamy will emcee the event, and DJ Coco will entertain.
Models and the designers working with them are Lexie Appleby, model, and Kenya B., designer; Allyson Welcome and Ericka Murdock; Michelle Stanley and Julie Maeseele; Giovanna Pilonieta and Bonnie Smith; Robbie Douglas and Elizabeth Singleton; Marie Sutton and Mykola Vyshyvanyuk; Narfunda Ross and Marilyn Locke; Jan McMahan and Maria Montoya; Jennifer Strickland and Kendra Weeks; and Lori Mills and Tiffanie Alexander.
Tickets to the event are $100 and can be purchased through hautepink. swell.gives. The fee includes two drink tickets and heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, in addition to the entrance into the show. The event also includes a raffle of exclusive items. Raffle tickets can be purchased separately at the event.
RESEARCH
From page 8
continued Davis. “But during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we also have an opportunity to celebrate the victories of breast cancer survivors, honor the memories of those we’ve lost and, most importantly, encourage others to join the battle against this disease that affects so many.”
One in eight women and one in 833 men in the United States will receive a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. In Alabama, an estimated 4,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and 720 lives will be lost to the disease.
Due to significant investments in research and early detection methods, breast cancer death rates are on a downward trend. Thirty years ago, 4 out of 5 breast cancer patients did not survive, but today, there has been significant progress, with 4 out of 5 breast cancer patients overcoming the disease.
Bandwagon Named Alabama Emerging Retailer of the Year
The owners of Homewood-based Bandwagon have been recognized for their creativity and efforts to promote shopping local with Alabama’s 2024 Gee Emerging
OTM Engineers
Recognized for Their Work by Alma Mater
Auburn
Two Over the Mountain engineers were among six honored recently by the Auburn Alumni Engineering Council for their distinguished professional careers.
Maury Gaston of Mountain Brook and Chris Kramer of Vestavia Hills were named Distinguished Auburn Engineers during a ceremony Sept. 13.
Gaston, a 1982 graduate of Auburn University with a degree in mechanical engineering, recently retired as manager of marketing services for American Cast Iron Pipe Co. after 42 years with the company. He worked in New York, Florida, California and Texas before returning home to headquarters in Birmingham in 1997.
He has served as vice chair of the national standards committee for iron pipe, as chair of the Alabama Iron and Steel Council and as a frequent author and presenter of papers at industry technical conferences.
Gaston is a third-generation Auburn graduate and a first-generation Auburn engineer.
Among his activities in support of Auburn, Gaston joined the Auburn Alumni Engineering Council in 2002 and served as chair from 2013 to 2016. He is current director and past chair of the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame. In 2014, Gaston was named as the Auburn University Department of Mechanical Engineering Alumnus of the Year.
He is also currently serving as regent, or national president, of Sigma Nu Fraternity, and he is a member of the Engineering College’s Ginn and Eagle societies and the university’s Foy, Samford and Petrie societies. He and his family have established a
the Alabama Retail Association.
“Bandwagon has quickly become one of the Birmingham area’s premier spots for sporting gear, equipment and school spirit apparel,” Shay Gartman, executive director of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, said in her nomination for the store. “Their staff is renowned for being highly knowl-
edgeable about what is needed for the different teams in the area.”
The Knights, who are Homewood residents, opened their store in 2021 and now have three locations, in Homewood, Vestavia Hills and Madison, Mississippi.
In their entry for the award, they wrote, “We are constantly working to increase our community partner-
ships to benefit our community, while also improving our success.” They said they look for ways to promote their business, such as implementing pop-up shops and a merchandising truck.
One of the former Retailers of the Year who judged the emerging category said, “Bandwagon is the reason why local retailers, if they recognize and focus on the importance of community, will always triumph over national chains.”
Powell Orthopedics Welcomes Dr. Weston Gentry
Retailers of the Year award.
David and Leah Knight’s teamfocused sports boutique had a 25% increase in revenue from 2022 to 2023, according to a statement from
scholarship endowment in the college Kramer, a 1994 graduate with a degree in civil engineering, has been chief strategy officer for Brasfield & Gorrie since 2022. He has more than 30 years of construction experience and has served in operational and leadership roles across the organization.
In 2013, Kramer was named chief innovation officer and established a group focused on innovation and continuous improvement in the organization and industry. Soon thereafter, he also became chief information officer and consolidated five technology-related departments into a unified group that has become a technology leader in the construction industry. He has spearheaded numerous initiatives for the company and had oversight of the virtual design and construction, lean, business process improvement and offsite manufacturing departments.
As part of this constructionrelated work, he was responsible for numerous projects at Auburn University, the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium expansion, LSU’s Tiger Stadium expansion and a wide range of industrial, commercial and institutional projects across the Southeast.
Kramer was named the Auburn Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering’s Outstanding Alumnus of the Year in 2021 and has served as the chair of the department’s advisory board. He is a member of the college’s Ginn and Eagle societies and the university’s Foy, Samford and Petrie societies.
Kramer has also served in leadership positions in church, civic, community and professional organizations locally and nationally.
He and his wife, Mary, also have established an endowed scholarship at the college.
Dr. Thomas Powell at Powell Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is pleased to welcome, Weston Gentry, MD, to the practice! Dr. Gentry (above right) is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, Arthroscopy Association of North America, American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine, and the Alabama Orthopedic Society. He is especially interested in orthopedic sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery. Dr. Gentry earned his medical degree at Meharry Medical College in Nashville in 2018 and completed his orthopedic residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock in 2023. He also completed an orthopedic sports medicine and arthroscopy fellowship at Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center in Jackson in 2024. During his training, Dr. Gentry had the privilege of caring for athletes at multiple levels of competition, assisting with the sports medicine teams for the University of Arkansas, Ole Miss, and Belhaven University. The team at Powell Orthopedics offers comprehensive care, from prevention and treatment to customized physical therapy and sport-specific rehabilitation. The practice offers same day appointments. We welcome Dr. Gentry to the practice and to Birmingham, he is accepting new patients in Vestavia and our Satellite clinic.
Alabama Retail Association President Rick Brown, left, with Bandwagon owners Leah and David Knight.
The Birmingham Museum of Art was the place to be Sept. 19 as the Frank Stitt Award for Industry Excellence was presented to Glenn Roberts, founder, CEO and head of research for Anson Mills.
Presented by Harbert Management as part of the FOOD+Culture Festival, the award was presented during a cocktail party. Live music played as guests sampled hors d’oeuvres and sipped curated beer, wine and a signature cocktail.
The award, named for Frank Stitt, Birmingham’s renowned chef and restauranteur, recognizes an industry leader dedicated to culinary craft who fosters appreciation for food’s journey to our tables and makes a significant positive impact on their community.
Roberts was selected because of his dedication to preserving and enhancing Southern culinary traditions, such as reinvigorating heirloom seeds to produce Carolina Gold rice and corn known as Carolina Gourdseed White, which is used to make grits. ❖
SOCIAL
CULINARY CRAFT
Frank Stitt Award Presented to Anson Mills Founder
Kim Harwell, Leah Auchmuty, Carrie Pomeroy, Shay Hammonds, Cathy Bearden
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Frank Stitt, Glenn Roberts
Ed and Mary Finch
Nancy Hopkins, Leigh Sloss-Corra
Luz Ovalle, Lauren Alligood
Julia Bacon, Julie Garvey, Regina Newsome, Carol Farley
Anna and Jay Lowery, Grady and Diane Swicord
Catherine and Miles Cullom
Nancy Cesnick, John Cesnick
Rosemary and Greg Greaves
Alex and Pam Morton
Brendall, Elizabeth Anne Hall, Sanders Williams
Nancy Cesnick, John Cesnick
Salute the Master
Conductor Izcaray’s 10th Season Marked During Annual Fundraiser
Friends and supporters of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra honored conductor Carolos Izcaray at the Maestro’s Ball at the Alys Stephens Center on Sept. 20.
The event, the largest fundraiser of the year, also was a celebration of the maestro as he begins his 10th season with the symphony.
The gala began with a cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres by chef Frank and Pardis Stitt and Tre Luna. Then, guests moved to the Jemison Concert Hall for remarks from hosts Catherine and Emmett McLean and symphonic music performed by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Izcaray.
The performance included the American premier of Izcaray’s “Exultate,” which recently had its international premiere at Versailles. Movements from Hector Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique,” the first symphony the maestro conducted with the ASO, were among the other pieces performed.
The McLeans were supported in their leadership of the event by corporate co-chairs David Brown, Emily Wood Bowron, Forehand and Charlie Perry, alongside a corporate committee. ❖
Rosemary and Greg Greaves
Catherine and Emett McLean
Carolos Izcaray, Rich and Jonnie Venglin
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Anupan Agarwal, Lisa Curtis
Susan Harlan, Lou Baverso
Bob and Donna Brackett
Ashley Michael, Chuck Holmes
Shawn and Julie Gillis
Doug and Linda Friedman
Warming Up
BMC Guild Members Prepare for Tablescapes Fundraiser
Trunk Show
Fall Collection Samples In-Store
Thursday, October 10-Saturday October 12
Members of The Guild of the Birmingham Music Club were invited to a kickoff celebration for next month’s Tablescapes fundraiser.
The event, a cocktail party at the Birmingham home of Victoria Hallman Traver and her husband, Franklin Traver, was held Sept. 17 as a “warm up” to next month’s Tablescapes luncheon to raise funds for the Guild’s annual scholarship program, said Linda Cooper, who is organizing the main event with Victoria Hallman Traver and Ann
Vrocher.
Guitarist Carlos Pino performed while the 30 to 35 guests, including Guild President Fran Howard and the table decorators, sampled drinks and the savory and sweet bites Vrocher brought to the party.
The Guild, established in 1988, administers the prestigious scholarship program started by The Birmingham Music Club, in existence since 1905. The Guild awards several music scholarships each year to highly promising students studying music
at Alabama colleges and universities. Tickets to the Oct. 17 Tablescapes luncheon at the Country Club of Birmingham are available at birminghammusicclubguild.org. ❖
Send info for social coverage to: editorial@otmj.com
Wanda Salmon, Jeanne Bradford
Ann Vaughan, Jocelyn Palmer
Vicky Hallman, Linda Cooper
Fran Howard, Carla Roberson
Rylee Jones and Elisabeth Souders
Inspiring Members
Samford Legacy League Gathers to Kick Off Year
The Samford Legacy League held an official membership and program year kickoff luncheon at Vestavia Country Club on Sept. 19.
Dr. Timothy George, founding dean of Beeson Divinity School, was among the speakers who shared their inspiring stories with nearly 250 members and guests. Other speakers included Samford University President Beck A. Taylor and Legacy League Executive Director Julie Taylor.
Penny Kimrey was honored with the annual Lolla Wurtele Wright Award, established in 2007 in memory of Lolla Wright, Samford’s first lady and executive director of the Samford Auxiliary for 25 years.
The Legacy League works to raise scholarship funds for students with significant need and challenging life circumstances. It will award more than $350,000 in scholarships this year. ❖
Mary Charles' Doll House Dolls, Doll Houses and Minatures
Mary Charles’ Doll House
New, Collectible Antique Dolls
1901 Oxmoor Rd. 205-870-5544
2820 Petticoat Lane Mtn. Brook Village 870-5544 COME SEE US IN HOMEWOOD!
Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm
Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm
Hats Through the Ages
Hoover Service Club Members Hear About History of Hats, Discuss Community Projects
Fashionable hats from yesteryear were showcased at the Hoover Service Club’s monthly luncheon meeting at the Hoover Country Club on Sept. 12.
Club members and guests wore their most stylish hats as Barbara Henry and her mother, Betty Rollins, presented a program on vintage hats, including design and decorations. Rollins, who has a passion for fashion history, started collecting vintage hats in 2017 and now has a fine collection of vintage and replica hats from the late 1800s to 2000.
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. Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
Thursday, Nov. 7th
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Tue.-Sat. 10-4:00
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Thank you for your prompt attention.
For their community service project in September, club members collected donations and items for Vineyard Family Services’ Backpack Buddies program. Foods such as boxed macaroni and cheese, applesauce packets, canned spaghetti and soup, microwave popcorn and packets of oatmeal and grits were donated. ❖
Julie Taylor, Penny Kimrey
Fran Duncan, Cathy Kilpatrick, Paula Gossett
Beck and Julie Taylor, Timothy George
Journal
photos by Jordan Wald
Courtesy
Lisa Simpson, Sheila Smith, Claire Gwaltney, Gina George
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Elaine Thompson, Kacy Wood Peacock, Lori Callahan, Bernadette Forrest
Debra Taylor, Betty Rollins, Barbara Henry
Phyllis Stone, Gina Blake
Melinda Springfield, Sylvia Traynham
Fashionable Fundraising
Big Oak Ranch Fashion Show and Luncheon Supports Mission
The Auxiliary of Big Oak Ranch kicked off its 18th year by hosting a luncheon and fashion show at The Club on Sept. 11.
The event, “This Is Us ... In Service,” was a fundraiser for the group, which is a nonprofit organization of volunteers who support the ranch’s mission to help abused and neglected children who need a chance in life.
Erin Woods, director of Planting Oaks, was the guest speaker for the 276 guests and 10 members of the ranch’s administrative staff who were there. Special guests were Tee Croyle, Kelli Croyle and Erin Woods.
Twelve boutiques from the Birmingham area provided the fall fashions modeled by ranch staff and some of the ranch’s residents. ❖
Assisted Living & Memory Care
Feel the warmth of specialized, person-centered care at The Crossings at Riverchase — where we treat each resident with a higher level of attentiveness and compassion. Our bright, inviting spaces have been purposefully designed for enrichment and engagement, and our Masterful Moments® programming enhances residents’ wellness in mind, body and soul. Whether in need of assisted living or memory care, our nurturing staff provides encouragement and support at every turn — so residents can spend each day with greater comfort and ease.
Kelli Croyle, BOR Ascend Director; guest speaker Erin Woods, Planting Oaks Director; Tee Croyle, Co-founder Big Oak Ranch
Courtesy
Jill Hicks, Katie Matkosky
Kathy Byrom, Lisa Speegle, Cammie Quinn, Angela McKinney
Kristi Wilson, Audrey Jost, Ginger Sharbel, Leigh Moore Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Suzanne Blum, Denise Lewis
Pat Jones, Kathy Bowers, Amber Wood
The Coronets Dance Club held its annual Fall Luncheon and meeting Sept. 20 at Vestavia Country Club.
Ray Jordan, owner of FlowerBuds of Cahaba Heights, discussed and arranged assorted vibrant fall florals, which turned into three beautiful designs.
The meeting was presided over by 2024-2025 club President Cathie Amos. Joy Wilkes and Redonda
Broom arranged the table centerpieces, which consisted of clusters of silver antique bowls, urns and vases filled with green and white antique hydrangeas and lovely vintage peach pomarosa roses.
Ashley Carmichael announced plans for the upcoming fall dance and invitations were distributed. Four recommendations for new members were voted on and accepted.
Other members in attendance were
Ashley Carmichael, Cathie Amos, Carol Powell, Kathy Tracy
Joy Wilkes, Ray Jordan
Pat Garlikov, Redonda Broom Phyllis Tinsley, Nell Larson
Rebecca Wingett, Dianne Horn, Cheree Carlton
OTM Students Chosen as National Merit Semifinalists
Dozens of Over the Mountain-area high school seniors recently were named semifinalists in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program.
Students in the annual academic competition are from 11 public and private high schools in the area. One homeschool/online student also is a semifinalist.
Vestavia Hills High School led in the number of semifinalists with 23. Homewood and Hoover high schools came in next with 13 semifinalists each.
Finalists will be announced early in the spring of 2025, and about half of those finalists ultimately will be named winners.
Students entered the competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
The program is conducted by the nonprofit National Merit Scholarship Corp. Through it, students can get three types of scholarships – $2,500 National Merit Scholarships, corporate scholarships, and college-sponsored merit scholarships.
From
Bailey, Abigail Smith, Eun Song Lee Back: Ali Najim, Ben Dahle, Logan Price , Tyler Glenn
HOMESCHOOL/ONLINE
VESTAVIA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL From left, front: Tashfin Abdullah, Terrence Li, Kendall Feild, Caroline Tyndall, Madeline Crawford, Mengzhen Wang, Andrew Sheng, Ali Fathallah-Shaykh. Middle: Allison Xie, Cuewon Kim, Timothy Li, Logan Hawley, Bryan Zhang, Ishaan Singh, Ethan Melenevsky. Back: Nicholas Snow, John Pickett, Logan Gregory, Jack Cobb, Parker Liu, Ishaan Garg, Chase Kaiser. Not pictured: Levi Griem.
HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL From left: Mark Houston, Daniel Turyk, Henry Chandler, Alexander Casiday, Misha Patel, Lily Fu, Lauren Rauworth, Tatum Stacey, Elijah Boyd, Akash Gaggar, Isaac Wood, Taylor Lynch, Krish Gadhia
HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL From left, front: Chandler York, Margo Brandrup, Emma Berthiaume, Charley Chewning, Alejandra Briceno, Emma Brooke Levering, Ruby Reeves. Back: Colton Cox, Oliver Trolard, Homewood High Principal
Dr. Joel Henneke; Luke Binet, Foster Laird, Sam Ernest, R.J. Teter.
MOUNTAIN BROOK HIGH SCHOOL From left, front: Spencer Cobbs, Marco Ortiz Back: Sophia Self, Ann Monroe Jackson, Drue Perkins.
OAK MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL
left, front: Madelyn
ALTAMONT SCHOOL From left: Johnny Stumpff, Raju Sudarshan, Oliver Maloney
Not pictured: SPAIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL
Michael Allen, Carmen Britt, Xuyang Chen, Julia Daigle, David Johnson, Tracy Li, Noah Smith, Rebecca Stafford
Jonathan Hooks
Audrey Wang
Aanchal Behara
Monisha Bommu McNair Shah
Parker Jacob Patton
Srihansi Sagi
William Peng Zoya Aleezada
ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS
BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Ian Robertson
INDIAN SPRINGS SCHOOL
Avery Biga Aviva Goldberg
Erik Ledvina Evie Froshsin
Ibrahim Hamo Josie Kim
Max Lizee Nate Albert
Radyn Moradkhani
Samuel White Syla Steinman
JOHN CARROLL CATHOLIC Will Magruder
By Madoline MarkhaM koonce
Abhi Sainju’s life journey has taken him across the globe and to its varied beaches – from India, where he went to boarding school; to Thailand and the Philippines, near his home in Nepal; to Destin, Florida, and Malibu, California, closer to his now-home in Birmingham.
“People are different everywhere, but everybody can feel that same (beach) energy, not only here but all over the world,” he said. “The common thing is the water and the fish and the food.”
It’s that universal beach energy that he’s brought to his new restaurant, Surf Hound, in Mountain Brook Village.
Gone are the dark whiskey bar vibes of Dram and gastropub look of Carrigan’s Public House, and in has come a light and tasteful layering of California coastal blues. Colorful surfboards and vintage surfing photos, plus some on-theme images of dogs on surfboards, now adorn the walls, and frozen drink machines churn up Frose and a spiced rum-coconut-pineapple-orange juice concoction known as the Frozen Hound. Doors open to a familiar patio, only this time accented with string lights and yellow-and-white striped canopies that make you feel like you might just be at the beach.
“If you are driving and arrive at the beach, you put your window down, and it takes you somewhere else and relaxes you,” Sainju said.
That’s the same feeling the executive chef wants diners to step into when they enter Surf Hound, which opened Sept. 19.
For those counting, this is Sainju’s third restaurant in Mountain Brook Village. In 2019, he opened Abhi Eatery & Bar and started serving up Asian dishes inspired by his Nepalese roots and the influence of his time in India and near China. The full-service restaurant is open for dinner only and is located above what is now Surf Hound.
Then, in 2023, he brought Abhi’s fast casual poke and Asian fusion sister, Maro, to life on Rele Street in the new Lane Parke development to fill a lunch void for his cuisine, and it’s open for dinner service, too.
And then came Surf Hound. Sainju, who worked as bartender for 12 years before moving to Birmingham, had always wanted to open a bar concept, and once he had the opportunity to lease this space, a friend suggested a beach theme. It didn’t take long for him to call to mind how much he loves eating and cooking fish (along with Phish’s music, to boot) and to say, “Let’s do it!”
Local branding firm Apostle teamed up with him to come up with the name Surf Hound, derived because, “We all love the beach and we all love our hounds,” Sainju said. Lindsey Meadows Interior Design worked on the design of the restaurant. The team allowed Sainju to focus on what he is most passionate about – the food.
Bar Food Plus
Many menu items are classic bar foods taken to the next level.
The wings are brined before they are cooked and come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served with either a classic lemon pepper or buffalo sauce or an Abhi-style lemongrass, sweet and sour, or spicy sauce. Chicken tenders use the same brine as the wings but are fried in a batter with Asian-inspired spices. The turkey burger is far from rubbery, so much so that Sainju’s friends often wouldn’t realize it
Beach-Bound
is most reminiscent of Sainju’s culinary experiences on the beaches of Southeast Asia.
“At the beaches back in Thailand, you are sweating from your head. It’s so spicy but you keep on going,” he said. “That’s the kind of thing I want to bring back here.”
Likewise, Cry, Cry, Cry might just bring on tears with Wagyu steak marinated in spicy Thai chili sauce, served with lettuce wraps that cool it off a smidge.
And then there’s the bar menu. Sainju’s top recommendations are the frozen drinks, but there are plenty more beach-inspired signature cocktails to choose from, plus a selection of beer and wine.
The Amped Honeydew cocktail, he notes, is the restaurant’s take on the Honey Deuce, the signature drink of the U.S. Open, which takes place in New York City, where his parents live.
Abhi Sainju’s New Casual Restaurant in Mountain Brook Village Is Inspired by the World’s Beaches
wasn’t beef when he’d serve them while watching football games at his house.
There’s also a kids menu with kid favorites chicken tenders, grilled cheese, a hot dog and a burger, plus ramen noodles in a cheesy sauce and a Nutella and banana sandwich. Parents might have to try a sip of the kids’ Frozen Island Punch, too.
Any drink you choose will pair well with an order of Shoreline Lettuce Wraps (with your choice of beef, Wagyu, or mushrooms), 30A Tacos (filled with grilled or fried grouper or shrimp, roasted duck, birria chicken or beef), PB&N (think peanut butter and noodles only elevated), or a grouper sandwich called The Gulfstream Crunch topped with the restaurant’s signature smokey condiment, Hound Sauce.
The restaurant is open for dinner Monday to Saturday starting at 4:30 p.m. and for lunch starting at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays only. Soon,
Fried Rice, served with a fried egg on top, and he said diners are enjoying the simple freshness of the Tuna Poke salad, served with avocado, sesame oil, sesame seed and a house-made poke sauce.
‘We all love the beach and we all love our hounds.’
You’ll find more than just bar food on the menu. Sainju’s expertise in Asian cuisine shines through in the most popular dish so far, the Crab
The Toasted Thai is a take on a Bahn Mi with house-made Thai sausage layered with cucumbers, cilantro, pickled carrots, and daikon radish on a toasted hoagie, or you can order a more traditional Bahn Mi-style pork sandwich called The Saigon Sizzle.
Of all the menu items, the Cry, Cry, Cry dish
Sainju plans to offer breakfast dishes on Sundays in addition to the current menu.
While Sainju has brought plenty of spice to the Surf Hound menu, more than anything he wants it to exude the same freshness he experienced eating on beaches in Asia.
“There you see fishermen bringing the food and somebody grilling it right there, no spices, nothing, not even salt and pepper,” he said. “It is so delicious.”
Surf Hound is located at 2721 Cahaba
To learn more visit eatsurfhound.com or follow @surf.hound on Instagram.
Road.
Executive Chef Abhi Sainju, above, stands on the back patio of Surf Hound, his third Mountain Brook Village restaurant. His first in the village, Abhi, is up a flight of stairs from Surf Hound, and Maro, a fast casual concept, is in the Lane Parke development a short walk away. Above right, Chop Water, is one of many beach-themed signature cocktails on the Surf Hound menu.
Photo by Blake Raymond. Far right photo by Eric Chapman
Photo by Eric Chapman
Photo by Blake Raymond
The Surf Hound menu features fresh raw oysters, elevated takes on sandwiches and Asian dishes such as PB&N, Udon noodles tossed in a spicy peanut butter sauce, above left. The restaurant, formerly home to Carrigan’s and Dram, now has a beach-themed interior, with light blue chairs and surf boards hanging on the walls, above right.
Popular Food Events Highlight October
Magic City Mac + Cheese
The cheesiest event of the year is also one of Birmingham’s tastiest: The Magic City Mac + Cheese Festival, set for Oct. 20 at Back Forty Beer Company.
The 7th annual fundraiser for Community Grief Support is part competition, part celebration of the South’s ultimate comfort food. It will be hosted by the nonprofit organization’s junior board from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The city’s favorite restaurants, food trucks, caterers, eateries, corporate teams and home chefs will compete for the best macaroni and cheese, while the estimated 3,000 people expected to attend will get to taste the dishes.
There also will be local celebrity and kid judges to decide the overall Mac + Cheese winner. The People’s Choice also will be awarded.
Southern Choice will entertain with live music. There will be a kid’s zone, including balloon artists, face painting and other activities. The event is pet friendly and will include a cheesiest pet costume contest. For the first time, VIP tickets for the event will be available.
All proceeds benefit Community Grief Support’s grief services for individuals and families in need. Tickets are available through the website communitygriefsupport.org/macfest.
Taste of Hoover
Taste of Hoover Thurs., Oct. 3, highlights the many unique restaurant and catering choices in the city. It’s
a great way to try a lot of different restaurants, types of food and tastes all in one spot. Get more information and tickets at aldridgegardens.com. When: 5-8 p.m. Where: Aldridge Gardens
Greek Food Festival
Become Greek for this weekend at the 51st Annual Greek Food Festival! It’s a highly anticipated event featuring Greek food, music and dancing, as well as tours of church. When: 10:30 a.m.9:30 p.m. Where: Holy Trinity – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church
St. Symeon Food & Culture Fair
Join us for the 6th annual St. Symeon Food & Culture Fair on Sat. Oct 12. Shop for baked goods and gifts, enjoy hot lunch foods, tour the church, hear
the choir, learn about iconography and more. We’ll be serving up madeto-order hot Greek doughnuts and homemade pierogi. When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: St. Symeon Orthodox Church, 839 31st St. South, Birmingham
Harvest on Hoyt
Harvest on Hoyt, set to take place on Oct. 27 along Hoyt Lane, marks the Mountain Brook Chamber and Junior Board’s inaugural community supper. This event promises an unforgettable dining experience crafted by beloved culinary gem, Dyron’s Lowcountry. Designed to unite the community over a shared meal, Harvest on Hoyt invites neighbors to enjoy a seasonal feast. When: 4 - 7 p.m. Where: Hoyt More info at mtnbrookchamber.org
Journal file photo by Jordan Wald
Enjoying last year’s Taste of Hoover event were, from left, Kelly Peoples, Betty Daigle, Frances and Frank Brocato, Traci Fox.
By RuBin E. GRant
At 6-foot-4, 235 pounds, Cam Torbor is a physical specimen.
“He’s got SEC size,” Hoover football coach Chip English said of the Bucs’ senior linebacker.
So, it’s kind of hard to believe that Torbor didn’t start playing football until last year, even though he is the younger son of Reggie Torbor, who played at Auburn and in the NFL for eight seasons with the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills. He earned a Super Bowl ring with the Giants in Super Bowl XLII, beating the New England Patriots.
“I’ve seen his Super Bowl ring a few times,” Cam Torbor said.
Even so, Cam Torbor was never really interested in football. He ran track when he was younger but quit after the sixth grade. His older brother, R.J. Torbor, was a track standout for the Bucs, a six-time state champion in hurdles and jumps who is now a freshman at the University of South Alabama.
Cam Torbor mostly played basketball. As a forward, he helped the Bucs win back-to-back Class 7A state championships in 2023 and 2024.
All the while, there were some encouraging him to play football, such as former Bucs assistant coach B.J. Brooks and Hoover athletic director Harley Lamey.
“They talked to me all the time about playing football,” Torbor said. “So, it came to me one day to give it a try.”
Torbor joined the Bucs’ football team as a junior. He was a reserve defensive end on the 2023 team. He moved to linebacker this season and became a starter.
“Physically, he can do anything he wants,” English said. “We started looking at him at linebacker and he did a good job of picking things up.
“He has the ability to use his hands to keep people off him and bring down people in the open field.”
Torbor said he has received plenty of instruction on making the transition from defensive end to linebacker.
SPARTANS
From page 24
Homewood.
But this time, the Spartans put the balls in the hands of talented tailback Stuart Andrews, and he responded with 211 yards rushing on 30 carries to give him 960 yards on the season, including the clinching one-yard touchdown in the 27-22 win over Homewood (5-1) at Spartan Stadium Friday night.
“I have to admit, I was like, ‘Oh my God, here we go again,’” Andrews said. “We just had to remind ourselves the monster that was last week was behind us; we had to remember to take one play at a time and finish this game off.”
Mountain Brook (4-2) led 13-3 at the half and 20-3 in the third quarter before having to hold on for its fifth straight win over the Patriots and ninth in the last 10 meetings between the two schools.
We’re young enough to continue to age me a little bit,” said 19-year veteran Mountain Brook coach Chris Yeager, “but we’re also growing enough to give me hope. Back in the spring, I really didn’t think we were very good at all.”
These Spartans have had to learn some valuable lessons through the first half of the season, especially after last
‘Physical Specimen’
Late-Blooming Torbor Making Impact on Hoover Defense
“I’ve had a lot of help from coaches and my dad,” he said. “My dad watches me and then goes out in the yard and practices with me. He worked with me some in the summer.”
Reggie Torbor played linebacker in the NFL, so he’s a valuable resource. But Cam Torbor isn’t carried away with being the son of a Super Bowl champion.
“I don’t think about it,” he said. “He’s just dad to me. But if I need to know something, I’ve got somebody to ask.”
Torbor is rapidly becoming a playmaker on the Bucs’ defense. Two weeks ago, he made his first interception to set up a touchdown in Hoover’s 40-6 victory against Prattville.
Last Friday, Torbor forced a fumble that teammate Justyn Hartley picked up and returned 19 yards for the Bucs’ only touchdown in a 14-10 loss
week’s tough loss.
“The whole thing from last week was we were going to need to lean into our misses, and if we did that, it would open us up to learn some valuable lessons,” Yeager said. “We really didn’t talk about outcomes. We talked about the scars and learning from those. We didn’t talk a lot about Homewood other than their scheme.”
It was the same Spartans’ plan, though, pounding with the running game over and over again (303 yards rushing on 46 attempts), before quarterback Cayden Hofbauer hit a couple of home runs in the passing game.
“That’s what we try to do,” Yeager said. “We try to mirror the (San Francisco) 49ers. We run their same stuff. If you look at them, that’s what we try to do.”
A lot of that revolves around Andrews, who now is 40 yards shy of 1,000 yards rushing on the season.
“There’s really no goal to it,” said Andrews, who had a huge 55-yard run to set up Lawson McKnight’s four-yard touchdown run for the 20-3 lead in the third quarter. “I owe everything to my offensive line.”
Yeager believes Andrews has the skills and mindset of the great backs with his vision and ability to read the play.
to Parker.
“He’s a polite, quiet kid who’s trying to learn to be a vocal leader,” English said. “He flies around and gets around the football all the time.”
Torbor now has an interception, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
“I just run as fast as I can and run toward the ball,” Torbor said. “That’s all that matters.”
Defensive Wake-up Call
Since a 39-37 loss to Spain Park in the second game of the season, Hoover’s defense has allowed only 33 points in wins against Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa (35-6), Hewitt-Trussville (8-7) and Prattville, and the loss to Parker.
“Our defense has been playing really well,” English said. “The biggest thing is we simplified stuff so they can fully grasp what’s going on.
“I think people kind of underestimate that guy,” Yeager said. “He really does a great job of trusting his reads and his keys. A lot of time it looks like there’s nothing there, then all the sudden a hole opens up and he really trusts his guys up front.
“He really understands our schemes and alignments and what we’re trying to do. All the great ones do that.”
Mountain Brook cashed in a 13-3 lead after the first half was played in a steady drizzle. Anderson Roberts connected on field goals of 21 and 30 yards and Hofbauer, who threw for 83 yards and rushed for 65 yards, completed only his third pass of the half with a 32-yard scoring strike to Sam Smith with only four seconds left on the clock.
Homewood’s Lessons
“We really needed a game like that,” Homewood coach Ben Berguson, whose team is ranked 7th, said. “We saw we have some things we need to clean up. Maybe we’ll see that team again in the playoffs.”
The Patriots, who had won all five of their games, put together a furious rally as quarterback Will Myers completed 15 of 27 passes for 198 yards and rushed for 92 yards on 18 carries.
Kylen Newell caught nine passes for 128 yards He caught a 13-yard
“Plus, I think they got embarrassed by what happened against Spain Park and took it personally.”
Torbor agrees with that assessment.
“The Spain Park game was a wake-up call for everybody on defense,” Torbor said. “We made a lot of mistakes in the first half of that game and couldn’t come back.
“We have changed since then. I think our defense as a whole has showed signs that we have the talent to be elite.”
That includes Torbor. A few colleges have taken notice. He’s gotten offers from UAB and West Georgia. English believes more offers will come as the season progresses.
“He has come in and learned now to play a new position,” English said, “plus, he’s a physical specimen and a great athlete.”
Torbor will look to continue to make an impact when Hoover (4-2, 3-0) hosts Oak Mountain (3-2, 1-2) Friday in a Class 7A, Region 3 game.
Torbor considers himself strictly a football player now. He has decided not to play basketball this season, so he can focus on the football recruiting process.
“I probably wish sometimes I started playing football earlier,” he said. “I would be more experienced. But I think it will play out all right.”
WEEK 5 SCOREBOARD
Parker 14, Hoover 10
Mountain Brook 27, Homewood 22
Spain Park 34, James Clemens 24
Briarwood Christian 31, Leeds 12
John Carroll Catholic 27, Montevallo 7
THIS WEEK’S GAMES
Briarwood Christian at Corner Gardendale at Homewood
Oak Mountain at Hoover Wenonah at John Carroll Catholic
Mountain Brook at Clay-Chalkville
Spain Park at Pelham Vestavia at Prattville
Mountain Brook’s Hayes Windle, #18, came up with a huge intercedption to stop Homewood’s 11-play, 59-yard drive late in the game.
touchdown pass from Myers with 1:11 remaining to close the five-point gap, but the Spartans were able to recover the onsides kick and run out the clock.
The series before, Mountain Brook’s Hayes Windle came up with a huge interception to stop Homewood’s 11-play, 59-yard drive.
“It was a huge play,” Windle said. “They had all the momentum. I knew I had to make a big play” It was a just one of a huge number
of big plays on both teams.
“Homewood is a very good football team,” Yeager said. “That quarterback –my goodness is he tough. They say these games usually come down to five or six plays, and this week, it turned out better for us. We’ve been in this situation three times and I don’t think they had been in that kind of situation before.
“This was a nice win, but it’s like I tell our guys, everybody is playing for November.”
Cam Torbor joined the Bucs’ football team as a junior. He was a reserve defensive end on the 2023 team. He moved to linebacker this season and became a starter.
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
REBELS
Super 25 poll.
“The girls are smart and athletic,” Rogers said. “They have a good understanding of the game, and they want to have success.”
Vestavia Hills reached the 2023 Class 6A/7A flag football state title game with a 17-0 record but lost to Central-Phenix City 25-0 to finish as runners-up.
Rogers wasn’t sure the Rebels would be able to sustain that kind of success this season.
“My biggest concern was what would we do on defense,” Rogers said. “We pretty much lost everybody off our defense. I wasn’t concerned about our offense ‘cause we had just about everybody back, but it was defense that carried us last year.”
Rogers’ concerns proved to be unfounded. The Rebels’ starting defense did not allow a touchdown in the first six games this season.
“Our defense has been doing a good job,” Rogers said. “The only scores we allowed in the first two games came on turnovers, a couple of pick-6’s.”
The Rebels have been getting solid play from linebackers Molly Mitchell, a senior, and Kate Fitzpatrick, a junior.
Two weeks ago, Mitchell had six tackles (flag pulls), two sacks and an interception as Vestavia Hills posted three wins. She had six passes for 140 yards on offense and scored three touchdowns.
“She has really stepped up,” Rogers said. “She’s very versatile. She understands angles really well and shuts them down.”
Fitzpatrick recorded 10 stops in the three wins.
Another key defender has been senior rusher Emily Spooner.
“She’s the captain of the defense,” Rogers said. “If you watch our games, she’s telling the linebackers what they need to do. She’s a solid player.”
Vestavia Hills has plenty of firepower on offense, led by junior quarterback Julie Rose. In the Rebels’ three wins two weeks ago against Mountain Brook (52-0), Opelika (25-0) and John Carroll Catholic (25-6), Rose completed 46 of 94 passes for 653 yards and 12 touchdowns.
“She led us to an undefeated season
until the championship game last year as a sophomore,” Rogers said. “She is as hard on herself as anybody. Her expectations are pretty high, so we have to tell her to lighten up a little.”
Rose has a solid receiving corps.
Sophomore Callie Davis established an AHSAA flag football record by scoring touchdowns on seven consecutive pass receptions two weeks ago. She finished the week with seven catches for 102 yards and seven scores in three wins.
Sophomore Alexis Rubin had eight receptions for 156 yards and three TDs in those games and senior Layne Turner caught 10 passes for 102 yards and one TD.
Vestavia Hills’ only loss this season came when they let an 18-0 lead slip away and lost 20-18 to Prattville in a Class 6A/7A, Region 5 game on Sept. 10.
The Rebels were scheduled to play Spain Park in another region game Tuesday.
“The idea is to get to the top of the mountain, but we have a lot of good teams to go through,” Rogers said. “We’re going to do all things we need to do to hopefully do that.”
Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year, now a freshman at the University of Alabama, Stewart has taken over as the Spartans’ setter.
“I knew I was going to be filling some big shoes,” Stewart said. “I learned a lot from Hannah, listening to her and taking in what she said.
“I’ve been waiting my turn and I learned from that, including how to be a good teammate and still getting better as a setter. I feel the team is the most important thing. It’s a team sport, after all.”
Stewart has been a productive player. Going into a quad-match at Hartselle last Saturday that included Pelham and Hazel Green, Stewart had 487 assists, 125 digs, 33 aces and 19 blocks.
“She gets better every day with her decision making, on defense and as a vocal leader,” Gardner said.
Competitive Nature
Stewart admits she can be somewhat of a perfectionist on the court, but that’s because of her competitive nature.
“I would describe myself as a smart player, making sure I’m making the right decisions,” she said. “Sometimes, that causes me to overthink things, but it allows me to control what I can and be energetic.
“I love to compete at a high level
with my teammates. I am very competitive and put a lot of time in on the court to improve my game.”
Stewart, who also plays setter for Alabama Performance Volleyball Club, has committed to Wofford in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
“The team there is really close and that’s something I can relate to,” she said. “The coaching staff is amazing, and I love the location and size of the school. It’s small but big enough to enjoy the college experience. I think I fit well there.”
Right now, Stewart is trying to help the Spartans repeat as Class 6A state champions. Mountain Brook entered this week with a 14-14 record.
“Our season so far has taken a slower pace than last year with our success rate early on,” Stewart said. “But I think we’re improving. We had a big win over Bob Jones recently, so I think we’re on the upswing.”
LEGAL NOTICE
In accordance with the Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that CB&A Construction, LLC, has completed the contract for North Woodridge Road Sidewalk Project, 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.
Senior linebacker Molly Mitchell makes a stoop in the Rebels 43-7 win over Oak Mountain last week.
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
SPORTS
‘PHYSICAL SPECIMEN’ Late-Blooming Torbor Making Impact on Hoover Defense PAGE 22
Mountain
Mountain Brook Hangs on to Hand Homewood Its First Loss
By Bill lumpkin iii
The first half of No. 10 Mountain Brook’s football season has had more twists and turns than a Rubik’s Cube.
Last week, the “Cardiac” Spartans survived another
wild fourth quarter comeback rally.
A week after blowing a two-touchdown lead in the fourth quarter and falling in a stunning 29-28 region setback at Oxford in the final 21 seconds, the Spartans were looking at déjà vu all over again against
See SPARTANS, page 22
‘Underestimated
Spartans’ Stewart Puts Volleyball
By RuBin E. GRant
Mountain Brook volleyball coach Mattie Gardner considers senior Grace Stewart to be the consummate team player.
Stewart spent the past three seasons as a reserve setter, playing behind former Spartans’ star Hannah Parant and patiently waiting her turn to move into the starting lineup.
During the wait, Stewart did whatever she could to support her teammates, even though her playing time was limited.
“Grace is a year younger than Hannah Parant, who was a dominant setter and the best setter we’ve ever had,” Gardner said. “Grace had been behind her for so long and she fully embraced what that meant and learned how you compete and support your teammates even when you are not a starter on the floor. I think that’s an underestimated skill.”
Gardner had witnessed Stewart’s team-first attitude for several years and
Skill’
Team First
fully appreciated it.
“I love that kid,” Gardner said. “Grace has been in our program from the very beginning, when she was a young 12-year-old just getting started. It’s been fun to watch her grow as a player and as a person.
“I was one of her coaches when she was 12. She has been the kind of player I hope future players recognize and appreciate and learn from her, knowing the team is more important than me.”
Stewart enjoys a close relationship with Gardner.
“I’ve known her a long time,” Stewart said. “We’ve grown close. We have a communicative style on and off the court. We talk about everything and that helps me during games and during the season.”
The lessons Stewart learned as a non-starter were invaluable.
“She learned the importance of practice,” Gardner said. “That has allowed her to step into her role this season.”
With Parant, the 2023 Alabama
Nationally Ranked
Rebels Looking to Climb to the Top of Flag Football Mountain
By RuBin E. GRant
Vestavia Hills flag football coach Doug Rogers likes to challenge his team.
“We told them we’re going to throw a lot at you,” Rogers said. “Some of it will stick, but not all of it will sink in, so acquire as much of it as you can.”
Obviously, the Rebels’ players have picked things up pretty well. They entered this week with a 10-1 record following a 43-7 victory against Oak Mountain last week and are ranked No. 13 nationally in the USA Today Sports
See REBELS, page 23
Grace Stewart
Brook’s Stuart Andrews finished the night with 211 yards rushing on 30 carries to give him 960 yards on the season. His one-yard touchdown run clinched the Spartans win over Homewood 27-22 Friday night.
photo by Jordan Wald Journal
photo by Jordan Wald
The Rebel’s offense is led by junior quarterback Julie Rose.