OTMJ 10.5.23

Guest Column Inside

Yes, Our Health and Wellness Matters, Too

RETAIL RECOGNITION

Clover + Bee named Gold Retailer of the Year

PAGE 8

IT’S SAW’S Y’ALL Southern Living’s Best Barbecue also among best retailers

ABOUT TOWN 4

PEOPLE 7

NEWS 8

LIFE 10

otmj.com

SPIRITUAL COMFORT Acclaimed Artist Produces Collection for Baptist Health Hospitals PAGE 12

ACADEMICALLY TALENTED OTM National Merit Semifinalists announced PAGE 25

SOCIAL 14

FOOD 24

SCHOOLS 25 SPORTS 28

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 5, 2023

Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald

Copy Editor: Virginia Martin

Features Writer: Donna Cornelius

Staff Writers: Ana Good, June Mathews, Anne Ruisi

Photographer: Jordan Wald

Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant

Contributors: Emil Wald, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch

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

Vol. 33, No. 5

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

Copyright 2023 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

It was just an old school picture. I was recently getting settled into my new home and sorting through forgotten boxes filled with childhood photographs when I saw it. It was my first grade picture, the one where I was wearing my favorite yellow dress and an angel charm necklace.

I had stumbled across it a few times over the years, and each time, I had taken a quick look before slipping it back into the box.

This time, though, something stopped me from just giving myself a passing glance before moving on to “real life.”

It was a weird moment because my natural tendency is like that of most women and mothers I know. We lean a bit “other heavy.”

When it comes to both seeing and meeting the needs of others, our feminine instincts give us a fair dose of superpower. Got a crisis? We’ll bring you dinner. Need assistance? Sign us up. Feel disappointed? We’ve got encouraging words and a shoulder to cry on. Want to celebrate? We’ve got the wine!

KRISSIE ALLEN

fess to having succumbed to an, “Ignore it long enough, and it’ll go away” health and wellness mindset for myself when it has just felt like too much trouble to think otherwise.

But with 49 years of life now under my belt, my perspective has elevated a notch.

Maybe it’s because I’ve watched some of my loved ones pass away and others fight like warriors through diseases like cancer. Maybe it’s because the older I get, the more the quote, “When you have your health, you have everything,” seems to have a Biblical legitimacy. Maybe it’s because there is mounting evidence from my creaking joints, aching back and slowing mind that my body is in need of some TLC. Maybe it’s because life just feels like more serious business the older you get.

Whatever the case, I’m starting to realize that prioritizing my own health and wellness isn’t some selfish fad but rather another act of womanly love.

This instinct is especially true when it comes to tending to our loved one’s health and well-being. We will happily spend extra at the grocery if it means putting together a more nutritious meal for our family. We will insist that everyone get an adequate amount of rest, and we will make sure that every doctor, dental or therapy appointment is scheduled and kept, because by golly, they matter.

While the ability to care of others is a beautiful gift, we don’t always pull from those same superpowers to respond to our own needs, however.

I have often laughed with my mom friends about our preference for “meals of nonsense” (Olives and pita, anyone?) that we prepare just for ourselves on particularly busy nights, or health screenings and doctor appointments we’ve put off because we simply don’t have the time. I even con-

Over the Mountain Views

So, when I ran across my childhood picture that day, I resisted the urge to simply toss it back into the box and did something unexpected. I framed it – in the prettiest silver frame I could find, too. Then I set it on top of a chest next to the pictures of my own children, who mean so much to me.

And every now and then – when I’m inclined to push my needs aside or skip the much-needed nap, the nutritious meal or the appointment I don’t feel like I have time for – I look at it.

I let it remind me that I was once a child who mattered and deserved heroic care.

I let it remind me that I, like all women, still do.

Krissie Allen is a former English teacher and attorney who aspires to find the humor in life. She writes in Birmingham while raising her five children and bravely facing unfathomable amounts of laundry.

Longtime Legislator Honored by Vestavia Police

State Sen. Jabo Waggoner, (pictured at right) a Republican from Vestavia Hills, was honored by the Vestavia Hills Police Foundation during a fundraiser Sept. 13 at the Vestavia Country Club. Thomas S. Hale, (left) the foundation’s president, said in an email that Waggoner was recognized for his support of the foundation and service to his community. Attorney General Steve Marshall was the keynote speaker. Steve Ammons – the foundation’s first president, former Jefferson County commissioner and current head of the Birmingham Business Alliance – emceed the event. During the event, special gifts were given to Waggoner and to the family of the late Vestavia Hills Police Chief Danny P. Rary, who died Aug. 1. “Senator Waggoner has long realized the tremendous value of our high-quality Police Department and its personnel in keeping Vestavia Hills such a safe and thriving community and also recognizes the need for more citizen volunteers to stand up in vocal and monetary support for our police and to stand guard against the constant negative media slams against them,” Hale said.

of the year PAGE 24

When it comes to both seeing and meeting the needs of others, our feminine instincts give us a fair dose of superpower.

Journal

photo by Jordan Wald

By June Mathews

Eight years ago, Angie LaCour lost her 27-year-old daughter, Erin, to suicide.

“She was studying for her doctorate in clinical psychology and was in her last year before clinicals when she was diagnosed bipolar,” LaCour said. “It changed her life completely. She had to leave school and move back home with me.”

Several months of manic behavior was followed by depression. Though Erin’s education had taught her about the illness, the medications and the prognosis, she felt utterly hopeless, mentally crippled by the disorder that held her in its grip. Her family tried to help but were unable to find the kind of resources Erin needed.

Four months later, she attempted suicide with pills.

“I found her and got her to the hospital, of course,” said LaCour. “But that’s the thing about mental illness. You don’t have a lot of resources. Maybe seven days in the hospital and, ‘OK, you can go now, here’s some medicine.’ That type of thing.”

Efforts to get Erin into longer-term facilities failed. Most residential programs were for addicts. Expense was another barrier.

“So much of what she needed was available only to those with very deep pockets,” LaCour said.

In the meantime, Erin attempted suicide a second time. Then a third.

On her fourth attempt, she succeeded.

“She hung herself,” LaCour said, matter-offactly. “She was just determined that her life was hopeless, and she didn’t want to live that

Whimsical Opera and Local

Opera Birmingham

Performs ‘The Billy Goats Gruff’ at Avondale Park

Walking the Walk

One Mother’s Mission to Reduce Suicides

toward furthering the AFSP’s mission of educating people about mental illness and trying to reduce the number of people who die by suicide.

“Little by little, I got more involved with AFSP, particularly in their Out of the Darkness Walks, which is their biggest fundraiser,” said La Cour. “The walks are done all over the country, and that’s what I did for a while. I did attend some support meetings, and they have chapters that offer support for families to go and talk things through. But mostly what I did was the walks.”

About a year ago, LaCour moved from Louisiana to Hoover, and one of the first things she did was inquire about volunteer opportunities with the Birmingham chapter of AFSP. She learned that committee members were needed to make the local walk happen this year, so she jumped right in.

Set for Nov. 5 at Veterans Park in Hoover, the Out of the Darkness Walk Birmingham will draw attention to the importance of suicide prevention. As she has in so many other such events, LaCour will be walking, joined by many others who, like her, have been personally affected by suicide.

The course of the walk is about three miles long, LaCour said, with walkers taking signs along to honor family members or friends lost to suicide. Some walk on their own; others walk in groups.

Last year, more than 570 Out of the Darkness Walks took place in communities and campuses across the U.S., attended by nearly a quarter of a million people.

Suicide Prevention. This year’s Out of the Darkness Walk is set for Nov. 5

way. She didn’t want to be that person. She was brilliant and beautiful, pursuing her education and her career, and we lost her.”

Thus began LaCour’s post-suicide journey on a road often filled with second guesses, survivors’ guilt and regret.

“As a parent, you always think, ‘I wish I knew more, I wish I had done things differently. I should have made this decision, I should have done that,’” she said. “So many things go through your mind. Everyone tells you that you

Opera Birmingham is presenting an operatic performance for the entire family, “The Billy Goats Gruff,” with a special guest appearance by Billy the Kidd.

The goat was playfully named Billy the Kidd after he trotted his way to fame when he absconded from his new owner in July and created his own adventures across the Mountain Brook and Crestline areas, eluding captors at every turn for almost a week.

The opera, which is sung in English, features music from operas by W.A. Mozart, G. Donizetti, and G. Rossini. It is a retelling of the classic tale about

free food and more. When: 5 p.m. -

7:30 p.m. Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall

Thurs., Oct. 5

Fall Festival Community Night

The Vestavia Hills Police and Fire Department present this annual event, an opportunity for first responders to network with local businesses, civic groups, churches, schools, and community volunteers in a symbolic stance to promote public safety. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a night of free family fun. There will be jump houses, photobooth, pumpkin patch,

Zoo Gala Flamingo Flamboyance

The Birmingham Zoo cordially invites you to join us for ZooGala 2023: Flamingo Flamboyance, it’s largest fundraising event of the year! Animal encounters, food, open bar, an auction and live music by Emerald Empire will set the stage for a wildly unique party. When: 5:30-10 p.m.

Where: Birmingham Zoo

Fri., Oct. 6

did everything you could and that it’s not your fault. But for a parent, that just doesn’t work.

Turning to Suicide Prevention Foundation

Immediately following Erin’s death, LaCour and her family got involved with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and requested donations to the organization in lieu of flowers. Within a week or so, more than $10,000 had been raised in Erin’s memory, money that went

three goat friends whose after-school game of hide and seek is disrupted by a big bully blocking a bridge, preventing them from being able to go home.

The cast includes Adreanna M. Pulliam as Lucy, Lauren Tinsley as Simone, Samuel Phillips as Otto, and Joseph Robinson as Dandini. The production is directed by Kristin Kenning, with Joseph Robinson as music director. The libretto and story adaptation are by John Davies.

The opera will be performed Saturday at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm at the Avondale Amphitheater, in

Putts for Paws

The Greater Birmingham Humane Society Young Professionals Board hosts the 3rd Annual Putts for Paws golf tournament at the beautiful Highland Park Golf Course. Attendees will have the opportunity to play 18 holes of golf, followed by an awards ceremony. When: Registration begins at 11 a.m. with tee off at 12 p.m.

Wed., Oct. 11

Tapas and Taps

Tapas and Taps is a unique

Avondale Park.

“The movement is growing,” she said. “Our goal is to spread awareness of what is currently the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S. and let others know they are not alone.”

Out of the Darkness Walk Birmingham will take place Nov. 5 at Veterans Park in Hoover. Pre-walk festivities begin at 1:00 p.m.; opening ceremonies begin at 2:30. Pre-register at supporting.afsp.org. For more information, visit www.afsp.org or contact walk chair Marissa Grayson at 205-613-6630 or marissa.grayson@ gmail.com.

Patrons are encouraged to take lawn chairs and picnic blankets to relax on the lawn.

After the show, Billy will be available for photos for $5, with proceeds going to Billy’s upkeep. Cash is preferred to expedite the line.

Adult tickets are $10, and children’s tickets are free.

To purchase tickets, visit operabirmingham.org or call (205) 322-6737.

After its opening, “The Billy Goats Gruff” will tour to several schools in the area. The production and its educa-

fundraiser for Smile A Mile, which incorporates local restaurants and businesses for an evening to experience the taste of Mountain Brook and beyond! Purchase your ticket to enjoy live music, small plates, local drinks, and more! When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Where: Lane Parke, Mountain Brook

Thurs., Oct. 12

Tapas & Tunes

Enjoy tapas from Sol Y Luna and music by Tarred & Feathered at the 11th annual fundraiser for Trinity

Greater Birmingham and Medical Properties Trust. Student tickets are supported by The Caring Foundation of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

Counseling, presented by The Gwyneth McCorquodale Charitable Foundation. The event also aims to raise awareness for mental healthcare. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: Cahaba Brewing Company.

Oct. 14-15, Oct. 21-22 and Oct. 28-29

Hoots and Howls

Get your Candy Trail tickets and wristbands now for the Birmingham Zoo’s annual Hoots and Howls daytime trick-or-treating event. Enjoy

Immediately following Erin’s death, Angie LaCour, above, and her family got involved with the American Foundation for

“As a parent, you always think, ‘I wish I knew more, I wish I had done things differently. I should have made this decision, I should have done that.’”

Journal photo by Maury Wald

‘Celebrity’

Billy the Kidd Courtesy Catherine Oztekin

Fashion for Education

Linly Heflin Unit Fashion Show Features Gus Mayer, Lafayette148 New York

The Linly Heflin Unit has partnered with Gus Mayer for its annual scholarship fashion show at The Club on Oct. 18.

Lafayette148 New York is the featured designer whose work will be walking during the show, along with fall fashions from Gus Mayer.

The event begins with cocktails and dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by the show at 7 p.m.

The Linly Heflin Unit began during World War I as a ladies’ service group aiding soldiers and has evolved to include a membership of more than 100 women. It provides scholarships of $10,000 a year for four years to women attending Alabama universities and colleges, supporting its motto, “educate a woman and you educate a family.”

Presenting sponsors are Cameron and Derrill Crowe, EBSCO Industries, Gus Mayer, Regions and Thomas E. Jernigan Foundation. Chair of the fashion show is Katherine DeBuys, and cochair is Valerie Lightfoot.

For more information on the Linly Heflin Scholarship Fashion Show and to buy tickets, visit linlyheflin.org.

From left, Carla Roberson, Linly Heflin Unit president; Jeff Pizitz, Gus Mayer owner; Katherine DeBuys, fashion show chair; and Mitch Johnson, Gus Mayer president.

Spooktacular fun!

Oct. Weekends

PUMPKIN JUNCTION

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum will host an old-fashioned family fun event with pumpkins for purchase, food vendors, activities and rides on the Pumpkin Junction. When: first three weekends Where: Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera

Sat., Oct. 7

BONE BASH

The Arthritis Foundation will host this Halloween-themed gala, featuring dinner, music, a “spooktacular” silent auction, games, costume contest and more, presented by Arthritis Foundation volunteers and staff. Proceeds will benefit the foundation’s research, advocacy and public health programs for those affected by arthritis. This year’s honoree is Dr. David McLain When: 6 p.m. Where: Pearl River Club at Regions Field

Sat., Oct. 14

HAY HOOVER

Free family-friendly fall festival hosted by the City of Hoover. Kids can wear their costumes. There will be hayrides, face painting and balloon artists and local businesses will provide candy. Shuttle service from Spain Park High School. When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Veterans Park on Valleydale Road

Fri., Oct. 20

A NIGHT DARK AND GRIMM

Tons of games, costumed characters, prizes, crafts, games, and treats including “sword training with the Merry Men, face painting, balloon twisters, laser tag, & meet and greet with Belle and the Beast. Where: O’Neal Library When: 6 - 7 p.m.

HOMEWOOD WITCHES RIDE AND FALL FESTIVAL | SUN., OCT. 29

The 11th Annual Homewood Witches Ride and Fall Festival begins at 2 p.m. featuring live entertainment, inflatables, food trucks and live performances including the Homewood High School Band drum line. Witches fly at 5:45. Funds raised will benefit the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. Where: Homewood Central Park

Stephens Center - Jemison Concert Hall

Oct. 20 & 22

SUPERPOPS! PSYCHO LIVE WITH ORCHESTRA

Enjoy Hitchcock’s timeless thriller projected on the big screen as the Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs Bernard Herrmann’s spinetingling score live. Take in every twist and turn as Marion is plunged into a world of crime, suspense, and murder all set to one of the most iconic film scores of all time. When: Fri., 7 p.m., Sun., 2:30 p.m. Where: UAB’s Alys

Sat., Oct. 21

TRICK OR TROT 5K

Get into the Halloween spirit at the 11th Annual Trick or Trot 5K benefiting Kid One Transport! The Trick or Trot 5K is a costume run that traditionally takes place in downtown Birmingham, Alabama through the streets of the Lakeview District. Funds raised will provide transportation to medical care for children and expectant mothers throughout Alabama. When: 8 a.m. Where: Back Forty Brewing and virtual option available.

Fri., Oct 27

TRICKS FOR TREATS

A spooktacular Halloween evening, the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s 3rd Annual Tricks for Treats event is a family-friendly event that includes a trick-or-treating adventure where little ghouls and goblins can collect sweets at various stops, face painting by Goldilocks Facepaints and more. When: 6 - 8 p.m. Where: Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

Sun., Oct. 29

BLUFF PARK WITCHES RIDE

This community event brings together

Homewood

Witches, from left, Kathryn McPhaul, Katie Ross, Meagan Gargis and Carrie Gargis at last year’s ride.

families and friends to celebrate the spooky season for a good cause. Register your broom (bike), get your witchiest costume and broom decorations ready, pack more candy than you think you need, and join the fun at the park behind Bluff Park Elementary school as you prepare to fly through the streets for this 1.5 mile ride through the neighborhood. Ride ends at The Electric in the Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center, where there will be more opportunity for fun, food, drinks, and more. Benefits The Wellhouse. When: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

LOOK FOR MORE FALL FUN IN OUR OCT. 20 ISSUE!

Oct. 19-29

sweet treats and take a ride on the Haunted Red Diamond Express or climb up the Full Moon BBQ Spider Climber Adventure Tower. When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Birmingham Zoo

Sat., Oct. 14

Jimmie Hale Mission Rescue Run

This is the 4th Annual Jimmie Hale Mission Rescue Run 10K, 5K, & 1 Mile Fun Run through the charming community of Homewood. Race attendees will receive a highquality race t-shirt and swag bag filled with goodies. After the race, post-race food items along with water and sports drink. Race will highlight Homewood restaurants and business specials. When: 6:30 a.m.registration and packet pickup opens, races begin at 7:45 a.m. Where: 29th Avenue South between 18th St. S. & 19th St. S.

Oct. 18-29

Shop, Save and Share

A $40 card offers discounts of up to 20% at over 250 retailers while raising funds to support the Junior League of Birmingham’s 28

POOCH PLUNGE AT THE LJCC | SUN., OCT. 15

We’ve enjoyed the outdoor pool all summer and now it’s time for our best friends to have their turn and take the plunge!

Attendees will be strongly encouraged to donate to event partners and/or The J during the event. Dogs who play well with others are welcome to the event and must be neutered or spayed and have proof they are current on their vaccinations.

When: 1-4 p.m. Where: Levite Jewish Community Center

community projects to advance education and culture, improve health and well-being, mitigating crisis and promoting safety and

overcoming poverty and financial instability in Jefferson and Shelby counties. For more information: shopsaveandshare.net

Catch

Me If You Can

This comedy murder mystery gives you a man on his honeymoon who calls the local police to investigate his wife’s sudden disappearance. When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Theatre

Thurs., Oct. 19

Birmingham Children’s

Gala

“An Enchanted Evening” is the theme of this year’s fundraiser benefiting Birmingham Children’s Theatre.

BCT is celebrating its 75th year of providing professional theater for young audiences and outreach programs to schools where arts opportunities may not be available.

When: 5:30 p.m. Where: The Fennec Fri., Oct. 20

Putt for Pitt Hopkins Golf Tournament

The Holley and Key families are hosting their 3rd Annual Golf Tournament - Putt for Pitt Hopkinsin honor of their sons, John Wesley

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

ASO website

ABOUT TOWN, from page 4

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Grace House To Celebrate 10th Annual Pumpkin Festival

The 10th annual Pumpkin Festival to benefit Grace House Ministries for Alabama girls in foster care will be Oct. 14 at Homewood Central Park.

The event, hosted by the Grace House junior board, is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A pumpkin patch, games, balloon animals, face painting, an inflatable spider climb and more activities for kids will be on hand for plenty of fun.

Children’s tickets are $10 and come with a pumpkin, a goodie bag and access to all games and inflatables at the festival. Adult entry is free.

Food trucks and local food vendors will offer fall-themed treats and bever-

Vestavia Youth Earns Eagle With Project at GraceWorks

ages.

Proceeds from the Pumpkin Festival will directly benefit Grace House Ministries’ life-changing program for girls in foster care.

The 40 girls who call Grace House home rely on this ministry to meet their daily basic needs, such as food, clothing and education. As the only program in the Birmingham area dedicated exclusively to serving Alabama girls in foster care, Grace House is meeting a critical need in the community.

To learn more about the ministry, visit grace-house.org.

“A Model for Leadership”

Forbes Set to Speak at Samford Oct. 24

Steve Forbes, chairman and editor-inchief of Forbes Media and previous presidential candidate, will be giving a lecture on “A Model for Leadership” at Samford University on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m.

The Howard College of Arts and Sciences’ Colloquium on American Citizenship partnered with the Birmingham Lawyers Chapter of the Federalist Society to bring Forbes to Birmingham. The lecture will be at Samford’s Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center.

meant to challenge traditional conventions.

Kane Hollifield of Vestavia Hills achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in June after a “lifetime” of scouting.

Kane began scouting when he was a kindergartener. Since joining Troop 83, Kane has earned 22 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, including senior patrol leader, librarian, quartermaster, chaplain’s aide and patrol leader.

He has earned the Triple Crown by participating in three high adventure

trips through scouting: Philmont, Northern Tier and Sea Base.

dirt floor inside the greenhouse, and planted pollinator bushes in the garden.

Kane, who is a junior at Vestavia Hills High School, also raised funds for the project.

Steve Forbes

“Steve Forbes has been an honest and reliable national leader in the publishing world and public service for decades,” Jason Wallace, Stockham Chair of Western Intellectual History and colloquium organizer, said. “He possesses a wealth of experience, wisdom and common sense that must be heard in our uncertain political climate. I am grateful he is speaking to our community this fall.”

Forbes’ newest project is a podcast called “What’s Ahead,” in which he engages the world’s top newsmakers, politicians and pioneers in business and economics in conversations

Holley and Brody Key. Pitt Hopkins is a rare genetic disorder resulting in intellectual disability and physical limitations. These families joined together to help raise awareness and to raise money for the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation, a nonprofit solely devoted to funding research for a cure. When: 9 a.m. Where: Highland Park Golf Course

Oct. 20-22 & 27-29

At Home Alabama Ballet

Step into a world of captivating movement and creative fusion with the Alabama Ballet’s season opener performance, At Home. Enjoy an evening of selected works as Alabama Ballet introduces new Artistic Director Christopher Stuart. At Home isn’t just a ballet performance – it’s an immersive experience that celebrates innovation, artistic synergy, and the universal language of dance in an intimate black-box setting. When: Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 p.m., Sundays 2:30 p.m.

Tickets to the speech are on sale for $10 at samford.edu/events. Students get in for free with their Samford ID.

Sat., Oct. 21

Homewood First Responders 5K

Join other runners for the Homewood First Responders 5K race benefiting the city’s police foundation and fire department. The race will begin and end in front of the Trak Shak on 18th Street and wind its way through the streets of downtown Homewood and the surrounding neighborhoods. Officers and firefighters will be there with police vehicles and fire trucks, and McGruff the Crime Dog. When: 8-11

a.m. Where: Trak Shak, Homewood

Sun., Oct. 22

Pink Up the Pace 5K and Fun Run

Lace-up your sneakers to raise funds and awareness for local, lifesaving breast cancer research by participating in the 5K race and 1 mile

“Dolly Dash” fun run. After the race, which benefits the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, stay for fun field activities, like face painting and playing on inflatables. When: 1-5 p.m. Where: Crestline Field.

For Kane’s Eagle project, he partnered with family and other Scouts to improve a greenhouse for Grace Works Kids in Woodlawn. They poured a concrete slab, replacing a

GraceWorks is a ministry of Grace Episcopal Church that provides a free summer program for inner-city youth, including the clothing, tools, resources, food, transportation and adventure fees.

Kane Hollifield

Kane is the son of Erin and Todd Hollifield, and Kathryn Hollifield. Kane and his family attend All Saints Episcopal Church in Homewood.

THE UAB SCHOOL OF NURSING JUNIOR BOARD OF VISITORS

HOSTS ITS 16TH ANNUAL

NO-SHOW BALL

PRESENTED BY

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2023

1-3 P.M.—Prepared Dinner Pickup

Leave the cooking to us! Pick up a prepared dinner tote for two from Iz Café and join us for a fun virtual presentation to learn about the UAB School of Nursing—all from the comfort of your home!

Tickets and Sponsorships available at www.uab.edu/noshowball

Questions: uabsonevents@uab.edu or 205-996-7453

in partnership with the UAB School of Nursing Alumni Network of the National Alumni Society

Steve

Hoover Bringing in Experienced City Administrator to Oversee City Operations Clover + Bee Named Gold Retailer of the Year

Clover + Bee in Cahaba Heights has been named Alabama’s Gold Retailer of the Year in the Annual Sales $1 Million to $5 Million category.

The Alabama Retail Association presented 11 Retailers of the Year awards this year in different categories.

“It is an honor to receive this recognition and a privilege to be one of the many small businesses in Alabama faithfully serving our communities,” Bryson Kessler, owner of Clover + Bee, was quoted as saying in a statement from the association.

Located at 3150 Heights Village, Clover + Bee started out 17 years ago as The Swanky Stork, a maternity boutique, and later expanded to include a “beyond the bump” clothing section. A rebrand to Cradle + Bee followed with the addition of a custom baby bedding line. In 2021, the company phased out maternity clothing and the bedding line and rebranded to Clover + Bee. It sells a curated collection of clothing, accessories and gifts.

Clover + Bee has been “extremely adaptable and evolved with their customers,” one of the Retailer of the Year judges said, according to the statement. “They are using a lot of tools to build their team and their customer base, and those efforts have resulted in increased sales.”

Kessler said, “We prioritize developing and fostering the strengths of each team member and are strategic about placing them in a role that highlights and utilizes their unique skills.”

As part of her commitment to customer service, she hired 12 high schoolers to rotate through the store on

Saturdays to greet customers and assist with fitting rooms.

“This strategy has proven to be very successful, not only with increased sales, but also to ensure we provide excellent service to each customer who walks through our door,” she said.

Clover + Bee’s marketing includes several special events, including discounts for teachers at the start of the school year and a focus on mothers in May.

“The colors and the happiness of this store (are) amazing,” Tracy Thornton, membership and marketing director of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, wrote in her nomination of Kessler.

Late last year, Kessler launched a podcast called Honey for Your Heart to

To Save a Life

Wedgwood Social and Golf Tournament Returns Later This Month

The Lord Wedgwood Charity

Presented by Brombergs is returning this month with its Wedgwood Social and Golf Tournament.

The social this year will be Oct. 22, before the tournament the following day.

The Lord Wedgwood Charity is a national effort to supply automatic external defibrillators to schools and community gathering areas. But it has a particular Birmingham connection. The late Lord Piers Wedgwood, then-international ambassador for Wedgwood China and Waterford Crystal, was in Birmingham in 2001 playing golf with friends when he was struck with a major heart attack but was saved with an AED.

Wedgwood then connected with

longtime friend and business partner Frank Bromberg III, along with Floyd Larkin and Robbie Robertson, to create the Lord Wedgwood golf tournament to raise money to make sure more people have access to the life-saving device.

Since its establishment, the charity has raised more than $600,000 and placed more than 450 AEDs and EKG devices across the U.S., mainly in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana Pennsylvania and Texas.

The social will be Oct. 22 at the Grand Bohemian, in Mountain Brook and is hosted by The Next Round (Lance Taylor, Jim Dunaway and Ryan Brown).

It begins at 6 p.m. and will include a raffle, silent and live auctions, and a

Hoover Mayor Frank V. Brocato got to introduce a newbie to city councilors and staff last week as Ken Grimes was hired to be the city administrator.

Grimes’ being new to Hoover doesn’t mean he’s new to the playing field. He has decades of leadership experience in public service organizations, according to a press release from the city.

Grimes grew up in Bessmer but has spent the past 22 years in the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area, having most recently served as director of external affairs for the city of Orange Beach. Before that, he served nearly 15 years as the city administrator of Orange Beach, and before that he was director of parks & recreation, acting city clerk and special projects coordinator.

working closely with elected officials, city departments and the community. He officially takes over his new job Oct. 31.

“I am truly excited about the opportunity to lead the city of Hoover as we work toward accomplishing the many goals and projects established by the administration,” Grimes said.

“I see tremendous potential before us and wholeheartedly embrace the city’s vision of “infinite possibilities.”

It is achievable! With teamwork, communication, fiscal responsibility and respect as guiding principles, we can prove there are truly unlimited opportunities to grow Hoover not just for this generation but the many that are to come.”

share lessons she learned from her customers.

“My desire for C+B has always been so much bigger than just a retail store,” Kessler said. “I want this to be a store that truly changes lives and ministers to others. That has always been my ‘why’ behind owning this store.”

Kessler also is actively involved in her retail community. She serves with the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association and said she had partnered with other business owners to offer an entrepreneur workshop.

The Alabama Retailer of the Year awards, started in 1999, honor retailers who have demonstrated growth, innovation and a commitment to their respective communities. This year’s winners were selected from 42 entries submitted from a pool of 55 nominees.

Grimes’ previous experience also includes a stint as president and CEO of the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce, five years as president of the Bessemer Chamber of Commerce and two years as its director of economic development.

“The city of Hoover needed someone that had experience as a city manager or city administrator. Ken has more than 20 years with Orange Beach,” Brocato pointed out in the press release.

“I was impressed with his many capabilities and experiences in dealing with disaster management, economic development, government finances, the large number of employees he had to manage and his ability to communicate with citizens, businesses and elected officials.”

As city administrator, Grimes will oversee all aspects of city operations,

The city held a reception for Grimes on Monday night, followed by the City Council meeting. The council gave a unanimous vote in support of Grimes’ hiring.

“I’m excited to welcome Mr. Grimes to the city of Hoover. With over 30 years of experience in municipal government, chambers of commerce and local print media, Mr. Grimes has the skillset necessary to excel in the position,” Hoover City Council President John Lyda said.

“The city administrator plays an integral role in the day-to-day delivery of quality services our residents deserve, and I am confident Mr. Grimes will excel in his new role.”

Brocato also touted Grimes as a family man and a kind person. “He’s very caring, and I believe he will be able to work closely with the City Council, the city employees and the mayor, and ultimately serve our citizens in the best possible way.”

Legacy

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

$20,000 putting contest sponsored by Pebblehurst Golf and Putter Lab

The golf tournament follows that Monday at Greystone County Club

Course. Registration and brunch begin at 9:30, with a shotgun start at 11 a.m. It offers two $10,000 hole-in-one prizes.

To buy tickets to the social and to get information about registering for the golf tournament, go to lordwedgwoodcharity.org/events.

Lord Wedgwood Charity committee members are, from left, front: Jar Twitty, Frank Bromberg, Chris Lane (honorary chairman), Floyd Larkin, Marcia Twitty and Gail Braswell. Back, Rusty Lowe, Eric Wood, Carolyn Howell, Paige Dye, Abby Braswell, Anola Ennis, Angie Burge, Mary Ashley Twitty and Courtney Wright. Not pictured: Vaughan Spanjer, Jessica Hinton, Susan Gordon, Hillary Kent and Chip Braswell.

Bryson Kessler, owner of Clover + Bee, third from left, reacts to being named Alabama’s Gold Retailer of the Year in the Annual Sales $1 Million to $5 Million category. At the presentation were, from left, Tracy Thornton and Michelle Hawkins, with the Vestavia Hill Chamber of Commerce and Alabama Retail Association President Rick Brown.

Courtesy Alabama Retail Association

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By Anne Ruisi

Kathryn Tortorici and Nancy Bynon’s friendship was forged 18 years ago when the then-Mountain Brook residents worked on a cookbook for the Junior League of Birmingham.

Their bond grew over the years and transformed in 2019 when the women were diagnosed with breast cancer at the same time. The

Each chapter contains a part of their story, a devotion, a key verse and a recipe.

longtime friends have a book about their cancer journey coming out this month, “Two by Two: Conversations Between Friends Navigating Breast Cancer.”

“It was through our friendship and through our relationship of having cancer together that we said, ‘You know, we’ve learned so much from each other. We had to share this with other women’” Tortorici said.

She said their diagnoses came following a casual conversation, when Bynon mentioned she was going to get a mammogram. That prompted Tortorici, who had just moved to Atlanta, to make a doctor’s appointment for her own screening.

“The ultrasound came back, and it wasn’t good,” Tortorici said, adding that Bynon’s test results also came back positive for breast cancer.

Their subsequent conversations as they faced battling cancer ran the gamut: What kind of cancer do you have? What is your treatment? What are you wearing to radiation? What are you having for dinner tonight?

“It was simple things but yet things that carried us as we navigated breast cancer,” Tortorici said

Journaling Everything

One of the strategies they used to cope was journaling.

Bonded Book

Friends Reflect on Cancer Journey in ‘Two by Two’

“We took notes over everything that we did, and we decided that when we first told each other we both had cancer,” Tortorici said, adding the journals included what they were learning about cancer and its effect on everyday aspects of their lives.

“You’d understand something that gave you peace,” she said.

Cooking and healthy food became important, as they learned about which foods could contribute to improving their health, such as

those that can help reduce inflammation, a side effect of some medications.

“We would have swelling in our hands and legs. Depending on what we ate would help with a symptom,” she said. “Something as simple as roasted pecans can be healthy and good, better than a cookie.”

These facets of their journey – conversations, journaling, cooking, plus scripture and faith – are integral to “Two by Two.” Each chapter contains a part of their story, a devo-

Book Signings Set For “Two By Two”

Want a signed copy of Kathryn Tortorici and Nancy Bynon’s book, “Two By Two: Conversations Between Friends Navigating Breast Cancer?” Here is the schedule of their book signings in October:

Oct. 12 – Ryan Reeve in Cahaba Heights, 10-11:30 a.m.

Oct. 17 – At Home in Homewood, 11 a.m.1 p.m.

Oct. 18 – Leaf N Petal at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 11 a.m.

Oct. 19 – A’mano, in Mountain Brook Village, 10:30 a.m.-12:30

tion, a key verse and a recipe. At the end of each chapter are key takeaways and blank pages for the reader to write down their thoughts.

Illustrations in the book are of poignant significance as they were drawn by Tortorici’s late mother, writer and artist Barbara Lavallet, who passed away in 2008. Tortorici found one of her mother’s old sketch pads when going through some boxes in her basement. Several of the drawings were of antique keys tied with ribbons. The discovery became the recurring “key” word to highlight the lessons, scripture, recipes and takeaway notes in each chapter.

Tortorici, who now lives in Cahaba Heights with her husband, Sam, and Bynon, who lives in Houston, are in remission but are being treated with hormone blockers to stave off cancer’s return.

“When you deprive your body of hormones, it’s gonna scream. You’re going to have some side effects that aren’t great. And you just have to deal with them,” she said, adding that by next fall, both should be finished with that phase of the treatment.

“Two by Two: Conversations Between Friends Navigating Breast Cancer” will be available online Oct. 24 at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Don’t Skip the Mammogram

Early Detection Eases Mountain Brook Woman’s Breast Cancer Journey

By June MAthews

Beth Bullock followed the advice. Like clockwork, she went for her regular checkup every December, and she would have a mammogram at the same time.

“I was told I had dense tissue, which makes it harder to recognize breast cancer,” she said, “so I had a baseline mammogram at 35 and then one every year starting at age 40.”

As the time neared for her December 2022 appointment, however, Bullock learned that her physician, Dr. Sarah C. Davis, needed to be out of the office that day. Bullock had planned to find out whether she was going into menopause. So she decided to wait until the next available appointment, which was at the end of March.

“I’ve been seeing Dr. Davis for years, and we have a great rapport,” she said. “We’re about the same age,

See BULLOCK, page 11

Courtesy Kathryn Tortorici

Longtime friends Kathryn Tortorici and Nancy Bynon used journaling to help cope during their battle with cancer.

photo by Maury Wald

From page 10

so I felt like we were going through all this together, and I didn’t want to see another doctor or a nurse practitioner.”

On March 28, Bullock went for her checkup and mammogram. The following Monday, April 3, she got a call from the doctor’s office. A small spot had been found. That Thursday, April

ple who are much worse off than I was, and I started thinking I should be the one waiting for somebody to come out and not the one going in,” she said.

Because the cancer was caught so early, she never felt a lump. At only one centimeter, the cancer barely made itself known.

Bullock gives high marks to her medical team, from Dr. Timothy Bullock, the surgeon who performed the lumpectomy, to radiation oncologist Dr. Susan Salter.

“I’m glad to be at St. Vincent’s,” she said. “Everyone there made it so easy, even doing the radiation. I would come to work, leave in time for treatment at 10 a.m., and I might be gone an hour and 10 minutes to an hour and 30 minutes. They were so quick and prompt.”

rience. My mammogram did exactly what it was supposed to do.”

For someone who has learned they have breast cancer, Bullock offers these insights:

Lean on your support network.

In addition to husband Chris, whom she calls her “biggest cheerleader,” Bullock had tremendous support from her parents and in-laws, a host of family-like friends, her work family, her church family and her and her husband’s ballroom dancing group.

“There were so many people just reaching out and sending notes of encouragement, texts and that kind of thing, and it helped,” she said.

Give grace to people who say the wrong things.

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6, she returned for another mammogram and an ultrasound.

“Within two hours after I got back to work, someone called to say, ‘We’re sending you for a biopsy,’” she said. “The biopsy was done April 10, and on May 1, I had a lumpectomy. I started radiation on June 1 and finished on June 22. Everything was so quick.”

One of the most amazing things to Bullock about the whole experience is she never felt anything indicating sickness.

“Going for radiation was surreal because I’m sitting in the waiting room looking around at all these peo-

During the next five years, Bullock wiIl have twice-a-year testing – an MRI each September and a mammogram each March. She will also take the cancer pill Letrozole for five years.

Realizing that early detection was key in her case, Bullock hopes that other women can learn from her experience and include mammograms in their regular health routine. She believes that reluctance to have mammograms stems from fear of what they may reveal.

“But if someone has breast cancer, it’s so much better to find out early,” she said. “I’ve heard women say they haven’t had a mammogram in a long time, but now they were thinking about having one because of my expe-

“A lot of people try to say the right things, but they don’t know what to say,” Bullock said. “I’ve been guilty of that, and now I think, ‘Wow, I’ll never say that again. I didn’t realize how horrible it sounded.’ Just know people are trying be nice, even though the words don’t always come out right.”

Don’t Google

“The only other thing I will say is for women who learn they have breast cancer and are looking for answers: Don’t ever Google anything. If you Google ‘breast cancer’ and ‘prognosis’ you get all sorts of things that may never happen, especially if it’s caught early.”

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‘There were so many people just reaching out and sending notes of encouragement, texts and that kind of thing, and it helped.’

By RuBin E. GRant

Anyone walking into the main front entrance of Brookwood Medical Center these days will notice a strikingly large painting of “The Good Samaritan.”

The 48-by-96 oil on canvas piece is the work of Dirk Walker, one of Alabama’s most collected and sought after artists, whose work has been collected throughout the United States and internationally.

“I’ve always wanted to do a painting of the Good Samaritan,” Walker said. “It’s one of the stories I’ve liked since I’ve been going to church.”

Baptist Health Foundation recently invested more than $300,000 to install and upgrade dedicated spaces of Christian meditation and reflection in Brookwood Baptist Health hospitals. The investment featured a special collection of art by Walker.

“The Good Samaritan” is the largest of the 14-piece project of original, spiritually based paintings.

Amy Allen, president and chief executive officer of Baptist Health System, contacted Walker in March about the project.

“Our relationship goes back a long way,” Walker said. “She was a client when I was at the Loretta Goodwin Gallery (in Birmingham). She knew I had done some spiritually themed pieces.”

Also part of the project was for Walker to do three, 20-by-16 original water colors to be displayed as prints in patient rooms. Each piece speaks to a specific Bible verse.

Spiritual Comfort

Acclaimed Artist Produces Collection for Baptist Health Hospitals

is an original in oil, depicting the message of the original stained-glass pieces.”

Dr. Walker, no relation, was pleased with the final results.

“Every piece was developed with prayerful consideration seeking God’s direction to bless His people,” she said. “Anytime we submit to the Lord’s leading, the outcome is more than we can ask, think or imagine, and the response of our patients, families and staff has been just that.”

“The subject matter was selected to depict various biblical stories.’

DIRK WALKER

Brookwood Baptist Health CEO Jeremy Clark also was pleased.

Walker met with a design team that included Dr. Cecelia Walker, executive director of chaplaincy and clinical pastoral education of Brookwood Baptist Health.

“The subject matter was selected to depict various biblical stories of Christ caring for the sick and downtrodden, as well as represent the mission statement of the health care system,” Dirk Walker said.

“It took me close to five months to produce,” Dirk Walker added. “Dr. Walker was influential

in making it a success. She knew the scriptures so well.”

Among the pieces are the “Woman with Blood Issues,” “Jesus Healing the Blind Man” and “Mission Window.”

“The ‘Mission Window’ has been a major focus of the hospital system for many years,” Dirk Walker said. “Most of the hospitals upon construction completion installed actual stainedglass windows that symbolized the mission statement of the Baptist health care system. This piece

“We are proud to have these beautiful works of art in our hospitals,” Clark said. “Dirk Walker is an outstanding artist, and you can feel the passion he has for his work when you look at these pieces. This project offers a gorgeous visual representation of Brookwood Baptist Health’s mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ through holistic, people-centered health care. I know this wonderful art will bring peace and calm to our patients, and I’m very thankful for that.”

The artwork has been installed in the common areas and patient rooms of all five Brookwood Baptist Health hospitals, including Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, Princeton Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, Shelby Baptist Medical Center in Alabaster, Citizens Baptist Medical Center in Talladega and Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper.

“To God be the glory,” Dirk Walker said. “I simply did what stirred my soul.”

“Jennifer,

Dirk Walker

Photos courtesy

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It’s never a bad idea to learn about Medicare at any age. Most people become eligible for it at age 65 or earlier if they become disabled. However, if you or your spouse are still working and have good health insurance you may not need Medicare at all. Deciding when to enroll and what to enroll in are our two most asked questions. Our team can help you make an informed decision.

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Many people think they’ll face penalties if

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An ANOC letter (or Annual Notice of Change) is what you get from your insurance plan in late September that tells the changes for the upcoming year. If a person needs to make changes, they can use AEP to make those changes.

they don’t sign up for Medicare at 65. That can be true, but not always. You can postpone enrollment beyond age 65 if you or your spouse are still working, and you have health insurance under an employer plan.

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AEP (or Annual Enrollment Period) runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. If you are already enrolled into Medicare, it’s the time of the year you can make changes to your plan for the upcoming

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Medicare Advisors of Alabama is located at 2116 Columbiana Road, 205-704-9020. medicareadvisorsofalabama.org

Gala in the Gardens kicked off the 17th annual Antiques in the Gardens event on Sept. 28 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The event was sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. James E. Ard and featured Hanson Slaughter as the honoree. Antiques in the Gardens, held this year from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1, is a premier antiques show that draws visitors from throughout the Southeast. Talks from nationally acclaimed interior and floral designers, architects, landscape architects and furniture designers are highlights of the weekend, and antiques dealers bring in a wide range of items for sale. ❖

SOCIAL

GALA IN THE GARDENS

Antiques in the Gardens Returns for 17th Year

Steele Marcoux, Leslie Tomlin, Camille Marks, Anna Brockway, Michael Diaz-Griffith, Caroline Cole

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Hanson and Melissa Slaughter

Phillip and Kelley McCallum

Randy and Cleo Gorman, George and Virginia Jones Ronny and Kelsey Hollingsworth

Annette Dean, Kathy Mezrano

Christiana Rossell, Eleanor Estes

Ryan and Alex Green Logan and Katerhine DeBuys

Jamie and Ginny Rediker

Carolyn Featherengill, Mary Virginia Mandell, Liz Pharo

Farris Ann Crace, Karen Luce Reed and Rebecca Stewart

David and Debby Tanner

Jason and Lindsay Puckett

Maestro’s Ball

Music and Merriment Combine in Symphony Fundraiser

A cocktail reception and concert were among the highlights of the 2023 Maestro’s Ball at the Alys Stephens Center on Sept. 22.

The annual event was hosted by Peter Curtin, Susan Curtin and Emma Curtin.

The ball is the largest fundraiser for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, and it can raise as much as 10% of the ASO’s operating budget.

The evening included a performance by soprano Aundi Marie Moore with conductor Carlos Izcaray and continued with live music and refreshments at the Abroms-Engel Institute for Visual Arts. ❖

Thomas John, Susan, Emma and Peter Curtin

Acrylic on canvas by Maya Eventov

Acrylic by Maya Eventov

Tiffany and French McMillan

Clare and Carlos Izcaray

Victoria and Daniel Wilson Alexandra and Sam Lloyd

Braxton and Mary Goodrich Mat and Kathy Whatley

Tyler and Maggie O’Connor Chris and Teresa Waldron

Shari and Greg Kennemer Kevin and Sarina Ruggio

Pumpkins and Candy Corn Coronets Meet for Fall-Themed Luncheon

Newly elected Coronets officers, 2023-2024: P.A. Carmichael, secretary; Marsha McCarty, parliamentarian; Cathie Amos, vice president; and Carol Powell, president.

Members of the Coronets Dance Club gathered at Vestavia Country Club on Sept. 22 for a fall luncheon. Attending were Edna Alderman, Cathie Amos, India Askew, Cindy Bartlett, Redonda Broom, Marty Buck, Cheree Carlton, P.A. Carmichael, Patty Clay, Carolyn Delk, Susan Dobbs, Linda Gooldrup, Jean Hendrickson, Marsha Hire, Diana Horn, Margaret Howell, Nell Larson, Marsha McCarty, Carol Powell, Joyce Talbot, Phyllis Tinsley, Tammy Towns, Joy Wilkes, Shelley Watkins and Rebecca Wingett.

Tables were centered with pumpkin containers holding multi-colored arrangements of mums and eucalyptus with candy corn sprinkled around the base. The centerpieces were designed and arranged by Patty Clay.

Luncheon included encrusted pecan chicken served over greens with strawberries, blueberries, black berries and raspberries, and a fresh spice cake with cream cheese icing. ❖

They Didn’t Have to Be Suede

Blue Shoe Ball Draws Attention to Prostate Cancer

Blue Shoes were de rigueur for the Mike Slive Foundation’s Blue Shoe Ball on Sept. 22 at Regions Field. The Blue Shoe Ball benefited the foundation and its efforts to eradicate

prostate cancer through funding research and educational programming. Activities at this year’s event included silent and live auctions.

This year’s Blue Shoe Ball honor-

ee was Tommy Brigham, who was instrumental in the creation of the foundation. Brigham also is chairman and founding partner of ARC Realty. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Anna Slive Harwood, Hatton Smith and Sara Nall

Cecile and Tommy Brigham

Anna and Brooks Harris

John and Ashley Perry, Deanna and Scott Jones

Brad and Stephanie Friedman, Lorie and Max Belski

Corinn and Jack Luckie

L’Chaim

Jewish Composers Remembered During Program

The memory of Jewish composers who perished in the Nazi ghettos and concentration camps during the Holocaust was honored Sept. 21 at the Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus.

and Catherine McLean

were the honorees for this year’s event. Emmett McLean is co-founder, executive vice president, chief operating officer and secretary of Medical Properties Trust. Catherine McLean serves on the Hand In Paw board and chairs the Special

Equestrians board.

L’Chaim, the event presented by the Alabama Holocaust Education Center and Medical Properties Trust, included the inspirational program “Here We Are: Songs from the Holocaust” and a reception. ❖

Emmett

cookmuseum.org

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Julie Escue, Bruce Pearl, Stacy Ryan, Joan Leslie McGill

Emmett and Catherine McLean

Jerald Lebovitz, Nancy Goedecke, Bert and Toby Siegel

Tara and Jim Bryant Cathy Fiedman, Jonathan Wiesen

Lisa and Ron Bachman Martin and Heidi Damsky

Paul Friedman, Lee Godchaux

John and Betsy Saxon

Grand Hopes

Firehouse Shelter Raises Money During Hope Gala

The Firehouse Shelter held its inaugural Firehouse of Hope Gala at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook on Sept. 28.

The gala featured a live auction from Granger Auctions, entertainment and opportunities for guests to learn how the shelter serves individuals experiencing homelessness in Birmingham.

The event’s goal was to raise money not only for the shelter but to support its medical respite care program. The honoree of the evening was the Dunn Companies, longtime supporters of the Firehouse Shelter that have provided financial

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

and volunteer support.

Dunn Construction built the new Firehouse Shelter on Second Avenue North in Birmingham, and the structure won the 2021 Building of the Year award from the Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association. ❖

Val Green, Bryan Johnson, Ricky Miskelley, Nicole Boomhover, Katherine Moak, Don Lupo.

Craig and Sherrie Fleming

Becky and Trae Bedsole, Emily Lipford, Robert Anderson

Lynn and Peter Hardin

Shea Doriety, Katherine Moak, Audrey Pannell.

Celebrating Life

Esophageal Cancer Foundation Parties at the Zoo for Annual Fundraiser

The John Michael Pierce Foundation held its second annual 2023 Zoo Party on Sept. 17 to pay homage to Pierce, tell his story and raise awareness about esophageal cancer.

Pierce, a Vestavia Hills High School graduate, died at 25 from the disease. Just a few months before he passed, he was healthy, in great shape and worked out every morning, his sister, Michelle Jenkins, said. But then he started having trouble swallowing, and after seeing several doctors, he was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. He died shortly thereafter.

Jenkins set out on a mission to warn others, particularly young adults, about the dangers of esophageal cancer and the symptoms to look for, and to encourage early checkups.

Her family established the foundation in his name in May 2022 to further that mission. The party at the Birmingham Zoo included food, cash bars and a live DJ and helped raise funds for the foundation.

Pierce, during his battle with cancer, created a podcast his sister said is inspirational and shows his outlook on life throughout his struggle. The Umbrella Pod can be viewed on the foundation’s website, jmpfoundation. org, under the About tab. He also recorded a session talking about when he was diagnosed, which is also on the foundation’s site under the JM’s Testimonial link. ❖

Journal photos

by Jordan Wald

Parker Crane, Gracie Hendrix, Ben Richards, Anne Crane, Bryce McGiffert

Sally Ann Pappas, Dylan Surber Mary Katherine Horst, Brady Strain

Holt Patton, Mattie Eubanks Sophie Schottenstein, Bethany Pappas

Cagri and Alan Prater

Patti Pierce, Michelle Jenkins and Jeff Pierce

Bob and Teri Glick and Lisa and Chris Town

Dinnertainment

Exceptional Foundation Artists Entertain the Crowd

A night of exceptional entertainment from exceptional people drew supporters of the Exceptional Foundation for its annual fundraiser Sept. 29. The Dinnertainment dinner theater party was held at The Country Club of Birmingham, with Exceptional Foundation participants showcasing their musical and artistic talents during a variety of shows and performances.

Ashley Thompson, Celia Gannaway Jim, Kate, Jack and Ginny Bakken

Sam Brinkley, Jane Newby, Anna Catherine Gillespy

Peggy and Ollie Sandlin

Patrick and Jane Lamb

Pride Fisher, Fran Fendley

Charlie and Carmine Jordan

The family behind the critically acclaimed Saw’s barbecue restaurants have been named Alabama’s Bronze Retailer of the Year in the Annual Sales $5 Million to $20 Million category.

“The family’s commitment to our community and chamber is fantastic,” Meredith Drennen, executive director of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, who nominated the Wilson family for the award, said in a statement from the

Alabama Retail Association.

Mike and Jennifer Wilson opened the first Saw’s barbecue restaurant in 2009 in Homewood.

“Mike manned the store, while I handled the books, finances and office work,” Jennifer Wilson, who at the time also was a full-time teacher, said. “Over time, we grew the Saw’s brand through partnering with others to open Saw’s Soul Kitchen in Avondale and Saw’s Juke Joint in Crestline.” A franchise company oversees three other Saw’s in Hoover, Leeds and Southside.

The rapid expansion eventually led to the end of their marriage, Jennifer Wilson said, but “the business continued to thrive.”

Then, in 2020, Mike Wilson, pit master and founder, died at the age of 46. By then, the restaurants that shared his high school nickname had become nationally acclaimed for their Carolina-style smoked pulled pork, chicken and ribs.

The founder’s business interests passed to his children, Tuc and Reese, while Jennifer, who has since retired from teaching, continues to handle business operations.

Food+Culture Fest: Four-Day Series of Events Showcases

Birmingham’s Culinary Culture

The first-ever Birmingham Food+Culture Fest four-day series of events is set for Oct. 12-15.

The main event in the series is Food+Fire, The Great Southern Tailgate, presented by Southern Living. That event will be Oct. 14, 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces. (Yes, it’s a football Saturday, but there will be screens around the grounds so you can watch live SEC football.)

The walk-around tasting event will celebrate the barbecue community, live-fire cooking and Southern tailgate culture, according to the Food+ website. Top regional and national pitmasters and acclaimed chefs will put an open-

It’s Saw’s Y’all

Southern Living’s Best Barbecue Also Among Best Retailers of the Year

“We accept this award not only on behalf of our family but also for our co-owners, numerous employees, other supporters and last, but certainly not least, posthumously for Mike,” Jennifer said. “However, none of what we do would be possible without our customers, all of whom are the lifeblood of Saw’s.”

Drennen said, “Even after the passing of its founder, Saw’s continues to offer the best barbecue in Birmingham.”

Southern Living magazine this spring dubbed Saw’s barbecue as “the best in Alabama.”

Tuc, a college sophomore, and Reese, a high school senior, own Saw’s Inc., the original

fire spin on signature bites and tailgate classics.

There also will be a Southern Living demo stage, a music stage with popular bands and local and regional breweries.

Guests can partake in unlimited tasting bites from more than 30 chefs and pitmasters and unlimited tasting-sized pours from more than 10 breweries and more than six wines in the Hop City Craft Beer + Wine Garden.

Other events during the series are:

Food+Flair: Changing the Menu. Oct. 12, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., at Haven. The multi-course luncheon will feature an all-female chef lineup.

Food+Frank: A Lifetime at Table. Oct. 12, 5:30-7:30, at the Birmingham Museum of Art. The cocktail reception with passed bites launches the inaugural Frank Stitt Award for Industry Excellence, with Stitt himself as the first honoree. The food will be created by

Homewood location. Jennifer is president, chief executive officer and manager of Saw’s Inc. and managing member of Saw’s Juke Joint in Crestline. Besides Saw’s Juke Joint, the Wilson family also holds the majority ownership of Saw’s Soul Kitchen in Avondale and owns the trademark and all the rights to the sauce and rub created by Mike Wilson.

Tuc “fully immersed himself in all aspects of the business this summer with an eye to the future,” his mother said.

Among the comments made by Retailer of the Year judges was that they were impressed by Saw’s partnership with college athletes through the NIL program to promote the business. They

chefs whose careers were influenced by Stitt, and speakers will present memories and stories about how he helped shape the Magic City’s food scene.

Food+Heritage: Oct. 13, 6 p.m.-10 p.m., at Pepper Place. The seated, family-style dinner will celebrate the influence of Black culture and cuisine on Birmingham. This will be an annual event that celebrates different cultures each year. It is for 21 years and older only.

FOOD+Funk Brunch: Biscuits, Brass & Bloodies. Oct. 15, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., at Sloss Furnaces. Top bakers, pastry icons, coffee roasters and mixologists from across the South will be at this final event of the series. Entertainment will be provided by Grammy-award winning Rebirth Brass Band.

For more information and to buy tickets, visit bhamfoodplus.com.

Yum From the Old Country: Fly

Your Greek Flag at Annual Food Festival

also lauded the business for improvements to its cost structure, adding online sales of its sauce and rub and partnering with a local university for meals for incoming students and events at local apartments.

The association names winners of the Alabama Retailer of the Year awards each year to honor retailers who have demonstrated growth, innovation and a commitment to their respective communities.

Saw’s is one of 11 businesses being honored as the 2023 Retailers of the Year by the Alabama Retail Association. This year’s winners were selected from 57 entries submitted from a pool of 86 nominees.

Everybody’s Greek when Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral holds its annual food festival.

That’s this weekend, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The 50th Annual Greek Food Festival is Birmingham’s oldest cultural event that offers Greek cuisine, music, dancing and cathedral tours.

Homemade Greek delicacies that have been prepared by parishioners will be served from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. each day, with outside tented seating for diners.

Greek chicken, spanokopeta, dolmathes, veggie plates, salads and gyros are among the foods being

served, along with Greek pastries. Greek beer and wines also will be available. For more information, visit birminghamgreekfestival.net.

Taste of Hoover: A Bit of the Best From Restaurants Across the City

Celebrate the variety of culinary styles found throughout the city at Taste of Hoover on Thursday.

The event, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens, will feature samples of dishes from more than 30 of Hoover’s best restaurants.

Live entertainment sets the mood for this event, which will also includes soft drinks and adult beverages.

For more information, look on the events calendar at aldridgegardens.com.

Jennifer Wilson, above with her children Tuc and Reese, and her late husband Mike, opened the first Saw’s barbecue restaurant in 2009. Saw’s barbecue restaurants have been named Alabama’s Bronze Retailer of the Year in the Annual Sales $5 Million to $20 Million category.

‘We accept this award not only on behalf of our family but also for our co-owners, numerous employees, other supporters and last, but certainly not least, posthumously for Mike.’

JENNIFER WILSON

Courtesy Alabama

Retail Association

FOODIE NEWS

OTM National Merit Semifinalists Announced

More than 60 Over the Mountain students are semifinalists for the prestigious National Merit Scholarships.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s program recognizes academically talented high school students from across the country. About 1.5 million high school students enter the program every year by taking the PSAT or the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

In Alabama, 270 high school students were named as semifinalists; 9.6% of them, or 25 students, came from Mountain Brook High School. Finalists for the award will be announced in the spring.

Hoover High School National

Merit Semifinalists are,

Mountain Brook High School National Merit Scholarship Program Semifinalists are, from left, front: Emmanuelle Lamontagne, Ann-Massey Bowman, Livy Holt and Emily Turner. Second row: A.T. Moak, Anne Lichty, Mary Katherine Malone and Caitlin Speake. Third row: Sam Holmes, Davis Till, Kenneth Robinson, JK Roberts and Patton Hahn. Fourth row; Ham Mandell, Jackson Short, Nate Hendrickson, Turner Holmes and Wells Finch. Fifth row: William Stringfellow, Grant Cooper, Henry Stallcup, Nathan Allendorf, Branum Lloyd, Grayson Hydiner and Will Lisenby.

Homewood High School National Merit Semifinalists are, from left, front: Naomi Jones, Maggie Player, Anna Chason Wiggins, Emma Chiesa, Kayla Warren, Maren Smith, Kenneth Wang and Jackson Kittinger. Back: Benjamin Shacka, Tripp McCain, Mira McCool, John Roberts, Gordon Pavy, Quinn Boney and Nathaniel Bernstein.

Vestavia Hills High School National Merit Semifinalists are, from left, front: Danielle Qin, Carol Li, Jessica Ma, Anusha Singh and Shayna Jotani. Back: Patrick Ball, Hunter Carroll, Aarya John, Edward Pang, Daniel Cheng, Arav Singh and Hansen Sha. Not pictured: Drakeson Hu and Riley Newsome.

Spain Park High School National Merit Semifinalists are, from left: Anna Parks, Foster Thompson, Andrew Phillips, Dylan Morgan, Mason Waldron, Arhum Pabani, and Parker Chase.

Indian Springs School National Merit Semifinalists are, from left, front: Mason Forman and Matthew Thomson. Back: Misbah Meghani, Duncan Earl and Paul Lou.

from left, front: Stephen McCollum and Isaac McCollum. Back: Jakub Hel and Benjamin Smith.

Oak Mountain High School National Merit Semifinalists are, from left: Julius Lappalainen, Evan Peng, Madison McCullars, Katherine Farquhar and Yeseung Shin.

Altamont School National Merit Semifinalists are, from left: Riley Pierce and Claudia Williams

Briarwood Christian School National Merit Semifinalist John Mark Williams

THOMPSON

From page 28

times for 33 yards and a TD as the Lions defeated Pelham 28-21 in another Region 3 game.

“Josh has done an amazing job of taking command and control, and we’ve had other guys really accept their roles and accept them really well,” Forester said.

Last Friday, Thompson completed 11 of 19 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns, and he ran 11 times for 59 yards as Briarwood shut out Oak Mountain 21-0 on the Lions’ homecoming. Thompson’s touchdown passes covered 7 yards for Caleb Keller and 34 yards to Sawyer Click.

The win was the 400th in program history and the first time Briarwood has shut out a Class 7A opponent.

Thompson said he hasn’t felt any pressure following Vizzina, who’s now at Clemson.

“C.V. is an amazing player who always helped me improve and taught me so many things that helped me prepare for when my time came,” Thompson said. “I’ve been able to play free this year because I know that I have so many weapons around me and a great coaching staff.”

Thompson sees himself as both a game manager and playmaker.

“I try to be a playmaker when needed, but I am surrounded by a lot of great players, which makes my job easier,” he said. “The coaches do an amazing job of putting people in places to succeed. They really make my job easy and just let me go out there and manage.

“Being a leader is the most important thing to me. I love rallying everyone together and pushing people to try and get better every day.”

The 6-foot, 180-pound Thompson is

receiving some attention from college scouts. He recently took a recruiting visit to Stetson in Florida.

“I would love to play in college,” Thompson said. “I’ve got a few schools looking at me right now, but honestly my main focus is the team and trying to be the best we can be. Beyond that I am trusting in God’s plan and will see what opportunities He brings me over the next few months.”

The Lions (3-2) have bounced back from their opening two losses to match their win total from last season, when they finished 3-7 and had their streak of 29 consecutive playoff appearances snapped. Briarwood (2-0 in Region 3) travels to Helena (6-0, 3-0) Friday in a crucial region game.

“The first two games were hard playing two really great teams, but we were all able to stay positive and work to improve each day,” Thompson said.

“The defense has been amazing this year and really pushes us in practice to get better. Our offensive line has done a fantastic job these past two weeks and has been a vital part of our success.

“We are trying to get better every single day. We all have a goal to get back to the playoffs and make a run.”

WEEK 6 SCOREBOARD

Briarwood Christian 21, Oak Mtn 0 Homewood 10, Pinson Valley 7 Mountain Brook 34, Hoover 24

THIS WEEK’S GAMES

Briarwood Christian @ Helena

Oak Mountain @ Hoover

John Carroll Catholic @ Pleasant Grove

Spain Park @ Tuscaloosa County

Vestavia @ Chelsea

TWINS

From page 28

So far this season, Annie has 218 kills, 30 blocks and 40 digs, and Mae Mae has 107 kills, 49 blocks and 32 digs.

“They are very talented and very athletic,” Gardner said. “They are also tennis players, and tennis has been their main sport. They took a break from volleyball but came back their sophomore year and played junior varsity. They were on varsity last year.

“What’s been fun to see is them taking on bigger roles this year because we depend on what they can do. It’s great to see them embrace that and be pivotal players.”

The Lacey twins have helped the Spartans (30-4) win 14 consecutive matches, Gardner surpass 100 victories for her career, and the Spartans become the No. 1 ranked Class 6A team.

On Sept. 22-23, they won the competitive HeffStrong Tournament at Spain Park. Mountain Brook won four pool play matches without dropping a set, beating Clay-Chalkville, Shades Valley, Muscle Shoals and Metairie Park (Louisiana). They swept Houston (Tennessee) and Huntsville in single elimination Gold Bracket play before beating Montgomery Academy 2-1 in

DAKIS

From page 28

with a time of 16:08.59 in the Black & Gold Classic at John R. Esslinger Trail of Champions in Scottsboro. Scottsboro’s Stephen Jones won with a time of 15:31.35.

As a team, Hoover finished second with 70 points, behind Mountain Brook with 54 points.

Routine’s the Thing

The 5-foot-7, 125-pound Dakis has been running since the seventh grade. “That’s when I really started to race,” he said. “I ran some 5K races with my church when I was probably 10 or so.

“I used to play soccer, as well. In the seventh grade, I started leaning toward running more. I just enjoyed it a little more.”

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the semifinals after dropping the first set.

In the championship match, the Spartans defeated previously unbeaten, Class 7A No. 1 Bob Jones 20-25, 25-18, 15-12 to claim the title.

This week, the Spartans were scheduled to play Spain Park at home Tuesday and visit Woodlawn on Thursday.

Tennis Champs

The Lacey twins have won multiple individual tennis state championships in singles and doubles, including the Class 6A No. 3 doubles title as a freshman tandem in 2021.

Last spring, Annie Lacey won No. 2 singles and Mae Mae won No. 5 singles, then Annie teamed with Pippa Roy to win No. 1 doubles and Mae Mae teamed with Ann Coleman to win No. 2 doubles as the Spartans captured the school’s state-record 33rd AHSAA state girl’s tennis championship.

“Our favorite sport is probably tennis ‘cause we’ve been doing it a lot longer,” Mae Mae said.

“Playing tennis together is so much fun,” Annie said. “We haven’t played doubles together since our freshman year because one of us needed to play with Pippa.”

The twins are unsure whether they will become college athletes, but they

The reason he enjoyed it more was the mental preparation.

“I really like keeping everything the same and being mentally prepared,” he said. “With my workouts during the week, I try to get to my pace and not miss a beat. The day before a race I usually eat the same thing, do a liquid IV or some Pedialyte. The day of the race, I talk a little to my teammates during warm-ups, then I get a decent way away so I can focus. I always have an awareness of who I’m running against.

“I always look at it that if I have a good mentality, anything is possible. I try to run a smart race and do what I can do.”

Dakis also does weightlifting with friends and cross-training on a bike or swimming to enhance his stamina.

Hoover cross-country coach Chris Schmidt is not surprised by Dakis’ mental approach to the sport.

“Zander lives and breathes cross-

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do plan to attend the same school. Among colleges they are considering are Wake Forest and Washington and Lee.

“If we go to a larger school, we probably won’t try to play sports in college, but we might walk-on if we go to a small school,” Mae Mae said.

Gardner believes the Lacey twins are talented enough to play sports in college, if that’s what they decide.

“They are so bright,” Gardner said. “They have done a great job of balancing their class load and playing two varsity sports. They are a great example of what it means to be a student-athlete.”

This fall, the Laceys hope to help the Spartans reclaim the Class 6A state volleyball title. They won Class 6A titles in 2020 and 2021 as part of three consecutive state championships, including the 2019 Class 7A crown. But Mountain Brook lost to Bayside Academy in the 2022 Class 6A semifinals.

Bayside went on to earn its 21st consecutive title, over multiple classifications, and its 31st title overall, both national records.

“It was extremely disappointing to lose to Bayside in the semifinals, so we’re just that much more motivated this year,” Annie said. “It’s such a big streak they’re on so I hope we can be the ones to end it.”

country and distance running,” Schmidt said. “He does all the little things right with his mileage, his pace and the way he communicates with his teammates. Those are all the little things that help you become a great runner.”

Schmidt believes Dakis will be able to take his skills to the next level. “He’ll definitely run in college,” Schmidt said. “I think he’ll do well on that level, especially the 8K and 10K they run. He excels at longer distances.”

Dakis is going through the recruiting process.

“I’ve been looking at Lee University a good bit, but I’m still keeping my options open, going on visits,” he said. “I’m going to UNA next week, then to Boston Friday-Sunday to visit Suffolk University.”

Meanwhile, Dakis wants to keep pushing himself to lower his times.

“I want to get as close as possible to (the) school record of 15:05,” he said.

Robert Bedsore, who is a two-time state champion, in 2003 and 2004, holds the Hoover school record for 5,000 meters, set in 2004. Dakis is now second with 15:29.85.

Dakis also would like to win the Class 7A individual state title and help Hoover win a team title for the first time since 2007. The state meet is scheduled for Nov. 11 in Moulton.

Dakis finished a disappointing 20th in the 2022 Class 7A state meet with a time of 16:15.64.

“I didn’t race great last year, but I think it’s a possibility that I could win it this year,” Dakis said. “I’ve got to keep working hard and keep the same mentality. It’s not going to come easy. Anybody can win the race. It’s a matter who has a good day.”

Athletes Thrilled to Take Part in Special Olympics

By RuBin E. GRant

The spectators and event coordinators had fun, but the participants had a blast, judging from their smiles and

Hills, Homewood, Trussville and two post-secondary programs – participated in the 18th annual Special Olympics at Hewitt-Trussville’s football stadium on a sun-drenched day on Sept. 26.

Participants ranged in ages from

had prepared them. Events included were wheelchair races, race walks, 50, 100, 200, 400 and 800-meter runs as well as 4x100 relays. Field events were throws, standing and running long jumps and javelin.

Athletes were able to showcase their abilities on and off the field in their athleticism, sportsmanship and friendship with their competitors.

“Beautiful weather and amazing people, and an atmosphere of celebration made a wonderful day for all,”

Athletes from Hoover and Vestavia, left, compete in track & field events. Above, Bo Finch and Henry Kimbrough, represented Mountain Brook at the 18th annual Special Olyumpics in Trussville.

for all to see.

“Some athletes will tell you their favorite part of the day was the sandwich sponsored by Chick-fil-A Birmingham for lunch.”

The mission of Special Olympics is

to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

“It was a wonderful experience for all kids and adults that attended,” Debbie Bailey, an adapted physical education instructor for Homewood City Schools, said. “All five of Homewood City Schools attended that day and have for several years.

“Carrie and her volunteers always go above and beyond to make this such an inclusive and positive experience for everyone. Both parents and kids talk about this day for weeks afterward and are always so proud to show off their ribbons. It’s not so much about the awards but about the friendships made and, yes, the CFA lunch is always a bonus.”

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Nov. 4 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering.

‘Wonderful Experience’

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

SPORTS

Thursday, October 5, 2023 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Double-Take

Lacey Twins Emerge as Pivotal Players for Mountain Brook Volleyball Team

By RuBin E. GRant

Mae Mae and Annie Lacey get some curious looks from the other side of the net whenever they are on the front row together for the Mountain Brook volleyball team.

“They point at us and then you can hear them whispering, ‘Are they twins,’” Mae Mae said. “Then when the point is over they ask us, ‘Are y’all twins?’”

Indeed they are. In fact, the Laceys are one of two sets of twins on the team, joining seniors Hannah and Paige Parant, and they are one of three sets who have played for the Spartans in recent years. Ann and Liz Vandevelde graduated in 2020 after

helping Mountain Brook win a state title in 2019.

“I love it,” Annie said of Mountain Brook’s twin trend. “I think it’s cool

when we play is watching the other team look over to see whether they are twins,” Gardner said.

Mae Mae, a middle hitter, and Lacey, a right side player, are identical, so the double-take is understandable. There is one slight difference though, Annie is left-handed and Mae Mae is right-handed.

The Laceys are double trouble at the net for their opponents. “It’s fun when we get a block together,” Mae Mae said.

‘Wonderful Experience’ Athletes thrilled to take part in Special Olympic PAGE 27

‘Delayed Gratification’

Thompson Making the Most of Time as Briarwood’s Starting Quarterback

By RuBin E. GRant

Coming into the 2023 high school football season, the Briarwood Lions expected to employ a two-quarterback system with the graduation of phenom Christopher Vizzina.

Vizzina started for four years, passing for 7,220 yards and 59 touchdowns. He also ran for 29 touchdowns.

Senior Josh Thompson and junior Will Clark were tasked with filling the massive void created by Vizzina’s departure.

“Both guys will play quarterback,” Briarwood coach Matthew Forester said in the preseason. “We feel comfortable with both of them and what we ask them to do.”

But as Briarwood was on its way to its second consecutive loss to open the season, a 37-6 setback at Spain Park following a 31-0 home loss to Clay-Chalkville, Forester decided to chunk the two-quarterback system and hand the reins to Thompson.

“He won the starting job halfway through the Spain Park game,” Forester said. “I think the big thing about Josh is he’s patiently waited his turn for four years, worked hard and tried his best. He’s learned his position well, so now he can come out and play at a high level for us. It’s a great example of delayed gratification.

“He’s been fabulous. The best thing about him is understanding of our offense and what we want to accomplish. He runs well and he know his reads, so he throws it to the right receiver.”

Thompson put up pedestrian numbers in his first game as the full-time starter, completing only 4 of 7 passes for 38 yards and a touchdown and rushing for 32 yards. But he led the Lions to a 28-10 victory at Chilton County in their Class 6A, Region 3 opener.

The next week, Thompson delivered a breakout performance. He completed 17 of 21 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns and ran six

‘cause people will remember we had three sets of twins the last few years.”

Mountain Brook coach Mattie Gardner gets a kick out of the curiosity about the Laceys, who are 6-foot-1 seniors.

“One of the most interesting things

They also have a fun-loving sibling rivalry going whenever they’re on the court.

“We’re definitely competitive,” Mae Mae said. “We’re always comparing stats.”

Mentally Ready

By RuBin E. GRant

For Hoover senior Zander Dakis, running is more mental than physical.

That’s why he prefers cross-country to track.

“Cross-country is more of a mindset sport,” Dakis said. “In track, it’s a lot about leg speed. If you mess up one bit,

you can’t recover. In cross-country, it’s a mindset race. If you mess up, you still have time to recover.”

Dakis didn’t need to recover in his first race of the 2023 cross-country season. He simply ran, delivering a careerbest performance.

Dakis clocked 15:29.85 at the Bob Blastow Meet at McIntosh Nature

Preserve in Whitesburg, Georgia. He finished fifth at the meet, but his time was more than 30 seconds faster than any other Alabama runner during the opening weekend of the season. Dakis also improved his personal best by nearly 30 seconds.

“It was a like a big Georgia race,” Dakis said. “I went into it not looking to run a 15:29. I just wanted to start off the season with a sub-16:00 and have a solid effort.”

That plan changed during the course of the race.

“I went out slow like I normally do,” Dakis said. “The guys in front of

me were not going crazy fast. After the first mile I was at 4:52 and I said, ‘that’s not bad.’ Then came mile two and I was at 9:42. I knew I wasn’t feeling like I was tired, so I told myself, ‘Hold on any way I can.’ So I just kept going. Then I got to 4K and it was only a 5K race, and I came through with a personal record.”

Dakis didn’t run as fast in his next two races. He finished eighth in the Chickasaw Trails Invitational with a time of 15:46.44 on Sept. 9 at Oakville Indian Mounds Park.

Last Saturday, he finished fourth

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Mae Mae Lacey (10) and Annie Lacey (9), who are 6-foot-1 seniors, are double trouble at the net for their opponents.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Josh Thompson