OTMJ 6.15.23

Life on the CAHABA

By June Mathews

Randy Haddock feels equally at home in two places. One is a house with walls, furniture and other conveniences. The other is a canoe in the middle of a river. But not just any river. The Cahaba River. The river Haddock has traveled and studied and treasured for three decades, from its headwaters near Springville to its confluence with the Alabama River at the former town of Cahaba near Selma.

“I feel as ‘at home’ when on the Cahaba as in my actual home,” he said. “As a retired field director for the Cahaba River Society, I have had the See CAHABA, page 8

Photo by Votive Media

Remembrance Inside

‘Just Keep Swimming’

Columnist Susan Murphy Leaves a Legacy of Love, Laughter

By Donna Cornelius

In 1990, Maury Wald had just started a brand-new suburban newspaper, the Over the Mountain Journal – and he had a particular space to fill.

“We had a spot in the paper to run guest columns, and we received some good ones – and some not so good,” said Wald, the OTMJ’s owner and publisher.

PAGE 4

PAGE 8

Out of all the would-be writers who wanted the job, one stood out: Susan Murphy.

“With Sue’s first submission, ‘I Fought the Lawn, and the Lawn Won,’ in our Sept. 13, 1990, issue, we knew we had someone special writing for us,” Wald said. “She quickly took over the guest column spot, and we renamed it ‘Murphy’s Law.’”

The issue you’re reading now marks the first time in more than 32 years that, sadly, the OTMJ again has a space on page 2 to fill. Susan Bramble Murphy died at age 68 on May 30 after a courageous battle with cancer.

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ABOUT TOWN 4

NEWS 8

LIFE 10

otmj.com

SOCIAL 12

WEDDINGS 18

SPORTS 24

With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area.

To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JO U RNA L June 15, 2023

Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald

Copy Editor: Virginia Martin

Features Writer: Donna Cornelius

Staff Writers: Anne Ruisi, Ana Good

Photographer: Jordan Wald

Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant

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

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

Vol. 33, No. 22

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.

Sue leaves behind two daughters, Katie Price of Ross Bridge and Shannon Suarez of Windermere, Florida; her much-loved grandchildren Jackson, Madison, Abigail and Ethan, who range in age from 13 to 8; and a sister, Donna.

Born Sept. 6, 1954, in New London, Connecticut, Sue graduated from the University of Wisconsin La Crosse in 1976 and earned a master’s degree from the University of Montevallo in 1993. She and Bill Murphy married in 1974.

In addition to being a talented writer, Sue was a kindergarten teacher at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School. Family and friends celebrated her life with a funeral mass at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church on June 5.

While Sue often used her wise, gentle humor to write about her family in “Murphy’s Law” columns, Katie and Shannon said they never worried that their mother would share too much information about her daughters.

“Mom was very good about respecting and avoiding any topics that might embarrass me,” Shannon said. “We never had to have a discussion about something being off limits. It was just a mutual understanding.”

Katie said her mother was so careful not to bring unwanted attention to her girls that she referred to them as “Kathy” and “Sharon” in her columns.

“We weren’t terribly aware of her columns when we were younger,” Katie said, but she added that as she and Shannon got older, it was fun to hear other people praise their mom’s writing.

“It was like being related to a celebrity,” Katie said. “It’s nice for us to read her columns now and say, ‘Oh, I remember that.’”

Shannon said her mom had a wonderful sense of humor.

“I loved that she had this outlet to share it with others,” she said.

In addition to “Murphy’s Law,” Sue also wrote several books, and her column won awards from the Alabama Press Association.

Wanderlust

Sue loved to travel. Her favorite trips included journeys to Australia and New Zealand, lake and river cruises in the U.S. and Canada with her sister and brother-in-law, and to Disney World’s Wilderness Lodge, which Shannon called

her mom’s “happy place.”

Sue also realized a longtime dream of visiting France, preparing for it by studying French through Rosetta Stone courses – and she went there all by herself after her husband’s death. Her last trip was to an event that she was determined not to miss.

“She went to Florida for her grandson Jackson’s confirmation,” Katie said. “She was his sponsor.”

“Selfless”

Two causes were particularly dear to Sue’s heart. One of them is Unbound, a nonprofit organization that uses a sponsorship program to help poverty-stricken families in Africa, Asia and Latin America become self-sufficient.

“Somebody spoke at her church about Unbound and put up pictures of the kids available to ‘adopt,’” Katie said.

Sue chose one little boy for a special reason.

“She said, ‘He looked angry, like he needed me,’” Katie said.

Shannon said her mother wrote often to the two children she sponsored through Unbound.

“She supported their education, and Katie and I will continue this work for her,” Shannon said.

Another of Sue’s pet causes was literally that: the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

“Mom had a huge soft spot for animals,” Shannon said. “She never wanted to see any animal hurt or unloved.”

Shannon and Katie said their mom had qualities that they strive to incorporate into their lives.

“My mother was one of the most selfless people I’ve ever met,” Shannon said. “She always thought of others and tried to help others whenever she could. She found the bright side of any situation.

“She met obstacles with grace and a smile. I try my best to channel her and emulate these qualities in my own life.”

The girls said their mother showed amazing strength during trying times, such as when her husband faced severe health problems and then when she confronted her own.

“She took care of my father for all those years,” Katie said. “She had cancer in 2003, and it was in remission for 13 years. The year after my father died, it came back.”

But, Katie added, Sue echoed Dory, the Pixar movie fish who never gave up, by saying, “You just keep swimming.”

Maury Wald said he and Over the Mountain Journal staff members will miss Sue as a friend, colleague and “voice of reason.”

“Over the last 32 plus years, it’s always been nice to hear someone say they like the Journal, and it’s been almost always followed by ‘I love “Murphy’s Law” – Susan Murphy is so talented and funny.’

“She was always at the top of her game, even when she was battling tough times, including the loss of her husband, Bill, and her toughest challenge of all – fighting cancer for the past six years.”

But if OTMJ readers treasured Sue’s column, Sue equally appreciated the opportunity to write it. Her daughters worried that it might be too much for her as she dealt with the effects of her illness.

“We’d ask her if she wanted to continue writing her column,” Katie said. “She’d say, ‘This is my connection to the land of the healthy people. It says, I still matter.’”

NURTURING CONFIDENCE AND CREATIVITY

Studio works with Autistic children and adult artists

MANN IN THE LEAD ROLE Virginia Samford Theatre kicks off new season with new executive director on Sept. 14

WEDDING FLOWERS LIVE ON Repurposed Blooms recycles beautiful blossoms

FAMILY MAN Legion FC President Heaps relishes being a dad to his athletic children PAGE 10

Susan “Sue” Bramble Murphy September 6, 1954 - May 30, 2023

“We’d ask her if she wanted to continue writing her column. She’d say, ‘This is my connection to the land of the healthy people. It says, I still matter.’”

KATIE PRICE, SUE’S DAUGHTER

WE’RE ON VACATION! We’ll return with our next issue July 13

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Independence Day 1776! July 4th

Nurturing Confidence and Creativity

Studio Works With Autistic Children and Adult Artists

By Anne Ruisi

Decades ago, the white building next to the railroad tracks on 20th Street South in Irondale was an icehouse and then a service station.

Since 1989, the one-time commercial building has housed a nonprofit art program geared to adults on the autism spectrum. Studio by the Tracks was founded by Ila Faye Miller, an educator who worked with children on the autism spectrum, said Merrilee Challiss, the studio’s executive director. Studio by the Tracks aims to fill a need for adult artists with autism who have aged out of the education system.

The studio also partners with Glenwood Inc., the nonprofit that serves the needs of children, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. It offers weekly art instruction, nurturing life skills such as confidence, perseverance, creativity, self-esteem, acceptance, patience, focus, collaboration and positivity through art.

Studio by the Tracks provides these adult artists access to a creative career path. Fifty artists come to the studio in Irondale throughout the week, said Lauren Cushman, director of marketing and partnerships.

The studio is usually busy as different artists come in daily. About 40% of the artists live at Glenwood, while others come from throughout the greater Birmingham area, including Over the Mountain. Some even travel from as far away as Talladega and Oneonta. Staff members are there to help them learn something new if they request it.

“Being creative is very powerful,” Studio by the Tracks Program Director Boo Gilder said, adding that spending time at the studio is a highlight of their week for many of the artists.

$5 admission

dimensional mediums, such as painting, drawing and collage. Some like working in ceramics and a few like papermaking, Gilder said.

From Flowers to Dye

In the garden on the side of the studio building are flowers and plants that can be used to make art, she added. For example, there are plants that can be used to make ink or dye, such as indigo, a source of a blue dye, or echinacea, which is used to make a yellow dye.

Sometimes flowers in the garden are used for pressing or to make a print. A neighbor who has a black walnut tree lets the studio use the nuts to make ink.

The studio provides all services and materials to the artists free of charge and helps them make a living by helping them sell their art, Cushman said. The artists receive 60% of the profit from the sale of their work.

Details of Art From the Heart

Studio by the Tracks will hold its 34th annual Art From The Heart fundraiser July 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at B& A Warehouse in Birmingham.

More than 200 works by Studio by the Tracks artists and donating artists will be available that evening.

Studio by the Tracks provides adult artists on the autism spectrum access to a creative career path. The artists receive 60% of any sale of their work. As the studio provides all services and materials to the artists free of charge, the proceeds contribute to their income.

For more information visit

The artists are encouraged to try new mediums, techniques and ideas based on their individual interests and comfort level, according to the organization’s informational literature. The adult program is formatted as an open studio where each artist can work on their own projects at their own pace. Staff, volunteers and fellow artists offer support.

“We see people grow tremendously. They might have an interest in art and in a year they’ve done things they didn’t know they could do,” Gilder said.

Most of the artists work in two-

JUNE 15 - 22

Through July 22

Treasure Island

The Robert Louis Stevenson classic is adapted for the stage and will be performed at parks around Birmingham, thanks to Birmingham Children’s Theatre and the Birmingham Parks and Recreation Board. For more information go to www.bct123.org/treasure-island.

Art is sold from the in-house shop and most recently, Red Bike Coffee Company in Crestwood is displaying the works, Gilder said. It also can be bought through the studio’s website, studiobythetracks.org, where shoppers also can buy studio merchandise, such as T-shirts, hats, greeting cards featuring artists’ work and keychains, Gilder said.

The organization is holding its biggest fundraiser of the year, the 34th annual Art From The Heart, on July 9 at B&A Warehouse in Birmingham.

More than 200 works by Studio by the Tracks artists and pieces by donating artists will be available that evening.

When: Various times Where: Various city park venues

June 15-25

Shrek The Musical “Shrek the Musical” is a one-of-a-kind, hilarious fairy tale in which curses are reversed, monsters get the girls, donkeys and dragons find love, and princesses are beautiful in all shapes and sizes.

When: Various times

Where: Red Mountain Theatre

Components for the event include live and silent auctions, which help to showcase the artists and their work. There is a wide range of art in a variety of styles and mediums, ranging from large pieces in the auctions to smaller works on paper in the “buy-it-now” room, according to a Studio by the Tracks announcement. A new feature this year will be a selection of work available from both donating artists and Studio by the Tracks artists available at the “buy-itnow” price of $100.

For more information, go to studiobythetracks.org/artfromtheheart.

“Art From The Heart is not just a chance to make money – it’s a chance for our artists to receive the recognition they deserve,” Gilder said.

June 15 – July 2

Peter Pan

“Peter Pan,” the classic, high-flying, Tony Award-winning musical will delight theatregoers young and old as it has for the last 60 years.

When: Various times Where: Virginia Samford Theatre

June 15-Aug. 30

Vestavia Hills Farmer’s Market

The weekly Farmer’s Market every

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Studio by The Tracks staff members Merrilee Challiss, Lauren Cushman and Boo Gilder are gearing up for the 34th annual Art From The Heart, on July 9.

Wednesday through summer will feature fresh produce, baked goods and more. When: 10 a.m.1 p.m. Where: Scout Square, 741 Montgomery Highway

Thurs., June 15

Steel City Smooth Jazz Festival

Kick- Off

Enjoy music from DJs and live performers, food trucks and a cash bar the evening as a kick-off to the Steel City Smooth Jazz Festival. When: 5-9 p.m. Where: Lit on 8th

June 16-17

Steel City Smooth Jazz Festival

Stokely and Stephanie Mills are two of the great acts who will perform over the weekend at the Steel City Smooth Jazz Festival. When: Gates open at 4 p.m. on June 16, 11 a.m. on June 17. Where: Linn Park, Birmingham

Sat., June 17

BBQ in the Park: Jenni’s Mixtape

Celebrate Father’s Day in Vestavia. Jenni’s Mixtape will rock the stage and barbecue will be available at this family-friendly night of fun! When: 6:30 p.m. Where: Wald Park

African Heritage Festival

Celebrate the vibrant traditions of African cultures and the Museum’s African art galleries with the return of the African Heritage Festival sponsored by Medical Properties

VESTAVIA HILLS I LOVE AMERICA NIGHT | THURS., JUNE 22

I Love America Night is a fun, family-friendly event to celebrate the independence of our country! Enjoy free swimming at the Aquatic Complex, sponsor booths, children’s activities, a live concert and a spectacular Grand Finale Fireworks Show. Shuttles available from nearby parking lots. More info at vestaviahills.org When: 6-9 p.m. Where: Wald Park

Trust. This family-oriented festival will feature food, games, dance, and music. When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Birmingham Museum of Art

Juneteenth Celebration

Hoover Public Library is partnering with Hoover-AHEAD to celebrate freedom and commemorate Juneteenth with a variety of familyfriendly activities. There will be multiple stages and activity areas and food trucks at this family-friendly event. When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Where:

Hoover Library

Accordion Concerts

Internationally renowned accordionist Michael Bridge will perform at two free concerts presented by the Alabama Accordion Association. When: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Where: Brookwood Baptist Church

June 17-18

Tannehill Trade Days

On the third weekend of each month from March to November, shoppers and swappers come from far and near to Tannehill Trade Days in search of tools, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures. Each trade day features over 350 vendors, and is held rain or shine. When: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Where: Tannehill State Park

June 23

Alabama Theatre

Summer Film Series

Grease Sing-Along kicks off this years summer film series at the Alabama Theatre. Tickets for all movies are $10 each. Doors open one hour before

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museum.org

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Leah Lee and Emily Dennis at last year’s event.

ABOUT TOWN, continued on page 7

The Homewood Public Library this summer is presenting a series of events about and in collaboration with Birmingham-area theaters.

The library’s Adult Department is presenting the “Hometown Theatres” series, focusing on the Red Mountain, Alabama, Lyric, Lincoln and Homewood theaters and Sidewalk Film Festival. Presenters such as Pamela Sterne King, Glenny Brock and Kyle Bass will be featured.

“I was delighted to read last year that Fodor’s, one of the foremost travel publications in the nation, had ranked Birmingham’s Theater District as one of the top places to go in 2022. I have always loved the Alabama Theatre, and I was thrilled we were chosen because of the rich history of our three major theaters,” Leslie West, head of Adult Services, said.

The historic theaters highlighted are the Alabama Theatre, which is home of the Mighty Wurlitzer organ; the Lyric, which recently has been renovated and listed on the National Register of Historic Places; and the Carver Theatre, which is run by the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

“These century old, restored theaters showcase everything from nationally touring bands to classic films to America’s unique jazz heritage. I thought it would be fun to balance our exploration of our historic theater district with new theaters in the Magic City – Red Mountain Theatre, Sidewalk Film Festival and the Homewood Theatre.”

All of the events will be free to the public and take place at the library, at

The Theaters of Birmingham

Homewood Library Presents Series on the Oldest and Some of the Newest Theaters in the Area

1721 Oxmoor Road in Homewood.

Events at the Library

Alabama Theatre (1927)

June 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Large Auditorium

The Alabama Theatre is in the heart of downtown Birmingham, on Third Avenue North. Since 1927 the Alabama Theatre has been the home to shows and performances ranging from movies, concerts, beauty pageants, silent films and even the Mickey Mouse Club. The theater showcases theater design from the early 20th century. King will trace the Alabama Theatre’s legacy and past glory days to its modern role as one of the jewels of Birmingham.

Sidewalk Film Festival (1998)

June 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Round Auditorium

The Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema is Birmingham’s only independent, nonprofit movie theater. The cinema opened in 2019 to bring arthouse, independent, repertory and local cinema to downtown Birmingham. It has two screens with a full bar and concession stand and lounge area and is in the lower level of the Pizitz building on Second Avenue North. The Sidewalk Film Festival has been presented since 1998. This year’s festival will be held

Aug. 21-27 in downtown Birmingham’s historic theater district.

Lyric (1914)

June 29, 6:30-8 p.m.

Large Auditorium

Built in 1913, the Lyric opened Jan. 14, 1914, as a vaudeville theater. The site served for more than 40 years as a cinema, a concert hall, a house of worship and a playhouse. The Lyric was one of the first venues in Birmingham where Black and white audiences saw the same show for the same time at the same price, but it was a segregated space, with a separate entrance and separate seating for Black patrons. The theater closed in 1960. Following an $11 million restoration, the Lyric reopened Jan. 14, 2016 –102 years after the original opening night. The 750-seat venue once again serves as a showcase for live performances, hosting concerts, comedy, dance recitals and drama. Brock will discuss the history of the Lyric.

Lincoln Theatre (1948)

July 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Large Auditorium

In the 1940s, the owner of the nearby Frolic Theatre purchased a 5,000-square-foot building in Bessemer to make a new theater. By

1948, the Lincoln Theatre was open to the public, showing first-run movies to Black audiences barred from other theaters due to segregation. However, dwindling audiences –the same problem plaguing the Alabama and Lyric Theatre’s at the time – forced the Lincoln Theatre to close in the 1970s. In 2017, the Lincoln Theatre building was purchased by actor and Bessemer native André Holland. Holland, who has played major roles in “42,” “Selma,” “Moonlight” and other movies, bought the theater to restore it as a community asset. Brock, project consultant, will give an inside look at the

ongoing renovation project.

Homewood Theatre Past and Present – The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

July 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Large Auditorium

Bass, executive director of Homewood Theatre, will bring the history of Homewood Theatre to light, in all its forms. He will begin with a movie theater near “the curve,” walk the audience through its various forms and arrive at the current incarnation at SoHo Square. Bass will share behind-the-scenes information and introduce a friend or two to demonstrate some of the fun that goes on at the live-action community theater.

Red Mountain Theatre (1993)

The program on the Red Mountain Theatre was presented June 6. Over almost 30 years, the theater formerly known as Summerfest Musical Theatre has grown to become one of the only year-round professional musical theater organizations in Alabama. Now, RMT is on a thriving arts campus that spans an entire city block in downtown Birmingham. It continues to bring well-known national performers and incredible local talent to the Birmingham stage. The presentation included information about the theater’s season, education programs and community involvement.

It’s that time of year when we can really enjoy our deck or patio. Here’s what you can do to make it the most relaxing and enjoyable space in your home.

• Pressure wash to remove grime, mold and stains. Make it shine! If you are thinking about selling your home, it also looks more appealing to buyers.

• Refinish the deck. Apply a clear coat sealer to keep it looking good and lasting longer.

• Install Lighting. Replace old lights with LED for brighter and longer lasting lights. Consider adding light to make it safer at night and enhance the look.

• Plants always make an outdoor space look better. Pots will need to be replanted from time to time but can really add pizazz to an outdoor

living space.

• Add new furnishings and décor. A new outdoor rug can make an area pop. New furniture purchased online usually needs assembly but helps to update your space and makes an inviting place for guests to gather.

• Add enhancements such as an outdoor kitchen or bar area. It can not only be fun to use but can also increase the value of your home!

Trublue of Birmingham is a handyman company dedicated to doing small projects for homeowners to maintain or add value to their home.

Call Trublue if you’d like to rejuvenate your outdoor space or need repairs maintenance items, and updates for your home. 205-8393818.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

showtime, and each screening will begin with a sing-along with the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Upcoming movies include My Big Fat Greek Wedding, The Mummy, Remember the Titans, Sister Act, Saturday Night Fever, Shrek, The Goonies, and Disney’s Cinderella When: Showtimes vary Where: Alabama Theatre

Sat., June 24

I’m With Mike 5K and 1 Mile Walk

The Mike Slive Foundation is holding its 5K run and 1 mile walk to raise funds to fight prostate cancer. The foundation is named for the former SEC commissioner who battled prostate cancer and seeks to eradicate the disease through public awareness, early detection and research funding. When: 8 a.m. Where: Starts at The Battery parking lot in Homewood

TUES., JULY 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY

July 4th Festival at Our Lady of Sorrows

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church celebrates the Fourth with its 74th annual barbecue festival, featuring take out and dine-in in the parish hall, children’s games, bingo and the always popular Trash and Treasure Rummage Sale. When: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Where: Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church

American Village Independence Day 1776

The fourth of July means fun, food and fireworks at the American Village. More than 40 patriotic activities throughout the day – music and dance, games, encounters with patriots of the past, the battle at Concord Bridge, and FIREWORKS at twilight’s last gleaming! Food trucks will be onsite. When: 11 a.m. Where: 3727 Highway 119 in Montevallo

Homewood Festival

Two blocks of downtown Homewood will be blocked for pedestrian traffic to make way for rides and attractions,

inflatables and rides for children of all ages. A DJ will provide music and interactive activities from one of the best locations to view the “Thunder on the Mountain” fireworks show from Vulcan Park. When: Downtown Homewood

Thunder On The Mountain

For over 70 years a free Magic City Independence Day tradition, Thunder on the Mountain 2023 will illuminate the skies above Birmingham’s iron man starting When: 9 p.m. Where: In the skies above Vulcan

HAPPY FOURTH! OTMJ will be taking our annual summer break and return with our next issue on July 13.

Thursday, June 22, 20 23

6:00 pm at Wald Park

V Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce & City of Vestavia Hills

6:00-8:00 pm

Kids’ Area Sponsored by Vestavia Hills Methodist Church Sponsor Booths

Free Swimming at the Wald Park Aquatic Complex

6:00-8:30 pm

Musical Performances by bands Lucky Larue & Chevy 6

ORK SHOW at

Free Shuttles will be available from nearby parking lots. Visit www.vestaviahills.org for Parking and other Information.

please Rain date

Gold Sponsors

Abenoja Orthodontics * Action Martial Arts * Allstate-The Sabatini Agency

America’s First Federal Credit Union * Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry

Ascension St. Vincent’s Health System * Aspire Physical Recovery Center

Avadian Credit Union * AVIA Apartments * BBB Serving Central & South Alabama

Birmingham Christian Family * Birmingham Martial Arts * Britt Animal Hospital

Brittney W. Gilbert, Family Dentistry * Buffalo Rock * Cahaba Mountain Brook Animal Clinic

Cellular Sales Authorized Agent of Verizon Wireless * Chick-fil-A Vestavia Hills

Crumbl Cookies * Digital Trends * Dog U * Domino’s Pizza Cahaba Heights

ERA King Real Estate * Family Medical Supply * First Horizon Bank

Grandview Medical Center * Highlands Dental Arts * Homewood Pediatric Dentistry

IRA Innovations, LLC * Jackson, Howard & Whatley, CPAs * The Jimmie Hale Mission

John Henley State Farm Insurance * KidStrong * Leaf & Petal * Levy’s at Gus Mayer

Liberty Park Children’s Dentistry * Liberty Park Joint Venture * Medicare Advisors of Alabama

Method Mortgage * Morningside of Vestavia Hills * Mountain Chapel Methodist Church

Mountaintop Church * Norris Orthodontics * OnTime Service * Orangetheory Fitness

OsteoStrong Cahaba River * Overture Tributary * ProLift Garage Doors * Pure Fitness

Ray & Poynor Properties * RealtySouth Acton Road * Regions Bank * Right at Home

Samurai Japan * Sarver Orthodontics

Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Electrical & Generators * Shoe Station

SouthPoint Bank * SpeedPro Direct * Spire * Stone Building Company * StoneCreek Dental Care

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privilege of a career focused on protecting this remarkable, beautiful place. Too few people recognize just how remarkable it is to have such a delightful recreational and educational resource so very close at hand.”

The longest free-flowing stretch of river in Alabama at 140 miles, the Cahaba is the primary source of drinking water for people in the Birmingham area and is one of the most biodiverse waterways on Earth.

It supports 139 rare and imperiled species, including 10 fish and mussel species listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, and is home to more species of fish per mile than any other river of its size in North America.

But the news isn’t all good. About half the length of the Cahaba, Haddock said, has been designated as “impaired” with respect to sediment and habitat alteration and excessive nutrient loading, all of which occur through economic activity and population growth. As a result, a loss of biodiversity has occurred.

Steps have been taken by wastewater treatment plants, municipalities and state environmental agencies to alleviate these problems, but much work remains to be done. And that’s why promoting community interest and involvement are essential.

“In the early days of the Cahaba River Society, we recognized that it would be important to bring people out on the Cahaba for a firsthand experience,” said Haddock. “We knew that those who have fished in it, gone

The Virginia Samford Theatre has announced that its 2023-24 season, which is the first season under new Executive Director Philip Mann, will follow the theme “History, Family & Magic.”

“The VST family has created programming and educational opportunities that reflect the growth and diversity of Birmingham and our surrounding communities,” Mann said in a statement issued by the theater. “This season, we want to make sure people know these shows represent everyone. There’s not just one way to define family, and that is the magic we’ll see!”

He is succeeding longtime head Cathy Gilmore.

The season begins Sept. 14 with “A Grand Night for Singing,” featuring greatest hits from the world’s most celebrated composers, Rodgers and Hammerstein. It continues with productions including “The Addams Family Young@Part,” “Schoolhouse Rock Live!,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” and “Into the Woods.” Mann’s role as the new VST exec-

swimming in it, paddled on it, waded about in it and saw how gorgeous it is would want to ensure it would always remain healthy. So, among the first acquisitions made by CRS was a canoe trailer and 10 canoes.”

Over the years, that investment has helped the Cahaba River Society spread the word about the river’s attri-

Clockwise from above: Randall Haddock, Cahaba River Field Director emeritus on a recent tour of the Cahaba River; Five different species of freshwater snails found in the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge near West Blocton; and Field Programs Director Wil Rainer, holds a large freshwater mussel known as Elephant Ear, Elliptio crassidens, this one is estimated to be over 60 years old. Cover inset, Hymenocallis coronaria, commonly known as the Cahaba lily.

butes and need for protection and, according to Field Programs Director Wil Rainer, has provided an up-closeand-personal way for people to experience and form an attachment to the river.

“Aside from its ecological importance, which cannot be overstated,” Rainer said, “the Cahaba also is a rec-

reational resource that for years has sat quietly waiting for cities along its banks to catch on to the wonders that the river provides.”

Taking people on the river, Rainer explained, enables guides to point out the consequences of developmental practices. Overall, it exposes them to the toll that civilization has taken on the river and teaches them that there are better ways to do things than the ways they’ve been done in the past.

River tours also provide spectacular sights such as the Cahaba lilies with their three-inch-wide white blossoms that bloom from mid-May to mid-June. Best seen in abundance in the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge near the town of West Blocton in Bibb

Mann in the Lead Role

Virginia Samford Theatre Kicks Off New Season with New Executive Director on Sept. 14

utive director is a full circle moment of sorts, as his parents first met while performing on the VST stage in 1963, according to the statement.

He was raised amid the Birmingham theater community and has worked as a performer, director and producer at VST, Town and Gown, Birmingham Festival Theatre and Birmingham Children’s Theatre. He majored in theater and philosophy at Birmingham-Southern College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is a graduate of the Oxford University Executive Leadership Programme.

Mann began his professional career in not-for-profit arts administration at The Alabama Shakespeare Festival and The Papermill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey. He went on to become an agent with the Booking Group in New York City, where he

represented several national touring companies including “Rent,” “The Producers,” “Annie” and “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”

After Hurricane Katrina, Mann was hired by Louisiana Economic Development as the division director of Live Performance and Music Industry Development and spent 10 years in state government. He spent the past five years as the executive director of external affairs and foundation trustee of the Alabama Center for the Arts in Decatur.

“Philip will be an exceptional and dynamic leader and is the perfect person to carry out the Virginia Samford Theatre’s mission of furthering the cultural opportunities for the Greater Birmingham community through arts education and performances of high artistic merit in theater, music and dance,” said Susan Nettles Han, chair

County, Cahaba lily plants produce one bloom that lasts only 24 hours.

“The lilies are just one of the many treasures the river holds, but they are indeed the most picturesque,” Rainer said. “Our trips provide an opportunity to fall in love with the river in the same way that we have. So many times, I’ve later seen people from past trips out on the water on their own. They’ve gone and bought their own boats and are taking friends out with them.”

Take a Tour

Three opportunities remain this summer to take guided float trips with the Cahaba River Society, starting with the Living River “Thumb” trip on June 24, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., from Booth’s Ford to Tate’s Landing, six miles downstream.

Moonlight Tour III will take place June 29, 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., beginning at the old Highway 280 bridge at Cahaba River Road and Riverview Road.

Moonlight Tour IV, also beginning at the old Highway 280 bridge, will be July 28, 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The cost for each tour is a donation of $20 for Cahaba River Society members. Nonmembers can pay $40, which includes membership. Canoes, paddles and life jackets are supplied, and a naturalist knowledgeable about the river accompanies each group.

Reservations are required and may be made online or by calling 205-3225326 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Space is reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information about the tours and to make reservations online, visit cahabariversociety.org/event.

of the Virginia Samford Theatre board of directors.

Big Plans

He is married to former Broadway actress and Jewel of Havana jewelry designer Ana Maria Andricain, whom he met through their love of the arts.

Mann said the VST will continue to produce high-quality musical theater and plays, and he wants to expand on programs aimed to broaden audiences to include younger and diverse generations.

“Above all, I want it to be fun, and I want everyone to feel welcome,” added Mann.

He said he also will be working closely with Birmingham city government, as well as the corporate and philanthropic communities, to tell the story of the VST as a leading cultural and economic driver in the area.

All 2023-24 season productions will take place at the VST, at 1116 26th St. S.

For more details on upcoming season visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

‘Above all, I want it to be fun, and I want everyone to feel welcome.’—PHILIP MANN

Journal photos by Maury Wald

O’Neal Library Opens Temporary Space After Flooding

The O’Neal Library has opened a temporary facility with limited services through July 27 because of a flooding incident.

O’Neal on Overton opened June 1 and offers programming and a limited book collection for patrons to borrow, according to an announcement from library Director Lindsy Gardner.

The library is in the former K.I. Temple at 3100 Overton Road. It is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The library will offer programming, including the Children’s and Young Adult Summer Reading Programs. O’Neal Library books and materials can be returned at the Overton facility.

Library staff will be unable to accept cash or card payments for fines on other library materials. Also, pick-up for library holds will not be available.

The O’Neal Library has been closed since a pipe burst May 5, caus ing extensive flooding of the library building. As the scope of the damage became clear, library staff acted quickly to explore options for an alternate location for the summer, Gardner’s announcement said.

The library is especially busy in the summer, when families and young people depend on it for activities and learning opportunities.

Meredith Montgomery-Price recently was appointed as the inaugural executive director of The Megan Montgomery Foundation to Prevent Domestic Violence Inc.

The foundation is named for Montgomery-Price’s sister, who was 31 when she was killed by her estranged husband, former police officer Jason Bragg McIntosh, on Dec. 1, 2019. McIntosh is serving

Services and seating will be limited, as there will be no public computers, printing or copying available.

a 30-year sentence in the Limestone Correctional Center after he pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of murder. He initially had been charged with capital murder.

The Megan Montgomery Foundation is a grantmaking nonprofit and a catalyst for change as it seeks to prevent domestic violence. The

For questions or concerns, contact the library at help@oneallibrary.org.

organization provides grants to high schools and colleges to educate students on healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Montgomery-Price is an adviser on the nonprofit Megan’s Fund, which means she helps to decide which nonprofits and schools receive grants so they can deliver prevention education to thousands of students. She serves in the role with her mother, Susann Montgomery-Clark, president of Megan’s foundation, and her stepfather, Rod Clark.

She is a University of Alabama at Birmingham graduate with a degree in art history.

Meredith Montgomery-Price

The library is in the former K.I. Temple at 3100 Overton Road.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Meredith MontgomeryPrice to Lead Domestic Violence Prevention Foundation

By RuBin E. GRant

As has become his Father’s Day tradition, Jay Heaps will go into the kitchen Sunday and make fondue to go with the goodies his wife, Danielle, prepares.

“I grew up with fondue,” Heaps said. “I love it.”

His wife is glad he does because otherwise the cooking is left up to her.

“He doesn’t cook any other time,” she quipped.

While fondue is on the menu, that’s not the most important thing to Heaps.

“The big thing is being together as a family,” he said. “I love being together with my family.”

Heaps, 46, is president and general manager of Birmingham Legion FC professional soccer team. He is a former head coach of the New England Revolution in Major League Soccer.

The Legion has become a fan favorite of soccer enthusiasts in Birmingham. Last Wednesday, a record crowd of 18,418 — the largest to witness a professional soccer game in Alabama — watched the Legion lose 1-0 to MLS club Inter Miami CF in a U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal match at Birmingham’s Protective Stadium.

“It was an exciting night with a great atmosphere but a bummer result,” Heaps said. “We played our hearts out but just couldn’t score the goal we needed.”

A Longmeadow, Massachusetts native, Heaps moved to Birmingham in 2018 after six seasons as the Revolution’s coach when the United Soccer League granted Birmingham an expansion club.

The family settled in Mountain Brook almost by happenstance.

Heaps had come to Birmingham several months before his family because his three chil-

LIFE

FAMILY MAN

Legion FC President Heaps Relishes Being a Dad to His Athletic Children

dren were finishing the school year in the Boston area. He was living in a rental home near Mountain Brook while considering whether to buy a home in an Over the Mountain community, such as Liberty Park, Homewood or Mountain Brook.

He was jogging one day near Crestline Village and liked the area. During his run, he spotted a five-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath home for sale and figured it would be perfect for his family.

Later, while sitting inside Taco Mama in Crestline, he called Danielle.

“I told her she had to come down to look at this house,” Heaps recalled. “She came down,

we made an offer and closed on it in March (2018). It happened really fast.”

Initially, Danielle wasn’t too keen on leaving the Boston area, where she had grown up, graduated from Boston University and met Heaps.

“When he told me we were moving to Alabama, I kicked and screamed a little,” she said. “But after I came down, the (Legion FC) owners took us around and showed us the area, and I liked it.”

Athletic Family

The Heaps, who will celebrate their 20th anniversary on New Year’s Eve, brought three talented athletes along with them, their children Jack, Olivia and Jude.

Jack, 18, helped Mountain Brook score its first boys state soccer championship in 2022 and was named the Gatorade 2021-2022 Alabama Boys Soccer Player of the Year as a junior. His dad earned the 1994-1995 Gatorade award for Massachusetts.

Jack had another strong season this spring for the Spartans, earning All-State honors and becoming Mountain Brook’s all-time leading scorer with 84 career goals. Last fall, he joined the football team, helping out with punting and kicking duties late in the season as Mountain Brook reached the Class 6A championship.

He also was named the 2023 Class 6A winner of the Larry Striplin Jr. Blankenship ScholarAthlete Award during the Bryant-Jordan StudentAthlete Awards Banquet in April. Jack will play soccer in college at Georgetown.

Olivia, 16, who goes by Liv, is a star lacrosse player for the Spartans, helping them win three consecutive state champions. She also plays for

the prestigious Eagle Stix Lacrosse club team in Atlanta. She will be a junior in the fall.

Jude, 12, who will be in the seventh grade at Mountain Brook Junior High, is rapidly becoming a soccer player to keep an eye on.

Heaps was a star soccer player himself in college at Duke and professionally. He was a threetime Hermann Trophy finalist, given annually to the nation’s top collegiate player, before winning the award as a senior and was the NSCAA Scholar-Athlete of the Year the same season.

Heaps also walked on to the Duke basketball team and played 3½ seasons as a point guard for the Blue Devils under Mike Krzyzewski.

Heaps played 11 seasons in the MLS, spending 1999 and 2000 with the Miami Fusion and 2001 to 2009 with the Revolution before retiring. Before he began coaching, he spent time in 2010 as the color commentator for the Revolution games on Comcast SportsNet New England and joined Morgan Stanley in Boston for three years in private banking.

Heaps didn’t push his children to become athletes. They just sorta naturally gravitated to sports.

“They’ve always been around sports, with me playing and coaching,” he said, “but I wanted them to make it on their own because it opens up other avenues in life. But you have to put in the work.

“They’re great kids and they work hard. It’s been great seeing them adapt to life here and it’s fun to watch them play sports.”

Balancing Act

Heaps also spends time playing with and coaching his children.

“It is hard to balance, but for me that’s something that was instilled in me by my father,” Heaps said. “He was good at showing me how to be there for my family because he was there for us.”

“My dad was a hockey and soccer player. He walked on at Norwich University, a military school (in Vermont) and fell in love with soccer. When I was little, he taught me the basics, but I also played a lot of baseball, basketball and hockey.”

“Being a GM instead of a head coach allows me to get up early and be a dad. I love balancing soccer and lacrosse.”

Heaps tries not to overdo it when coaching his children.

“I was an assistant coach of theirs a few times,” he said. “When Jack was playing Little League baseball, I coached and I enjoyed it. With me being a head coach of a major league soccer team, I loved jumping in and helping out. I just enjoyed being around all the kids on the team.

“I was always around practice with my kids, but I didn’t try to be a head coach because I wanted to make sure they heard another voice.”

Jack remembers the days when he was just dipping his feet into soccer and how his dad was there for him.

“When I was little, he was still playing and we’d go to his games,” Jack said. “We were living in an apartment in Boston and I’d go out and kick the ball up and down the street with him.

“He’s always done a great job balancing being a dad and working at his job.”

Liv played soccer when she was little but decided she liked lacrosse better.

“Jay was thrilled when she picked lacrosse,” Danielle said. “It’s less stressful for him.”

Heaps has become Liv’s tossing partner when she works on her skills at home. He has had to step up his lacrosse game to keep up with her.

“With my daughter getting better, I needed to get better,” he said with a laugh.

“He has gotten better,” Liv said, “and it’s fun for me to teach him stuff.”

Jude is enjoying the benefits of his dad being with Legion FC.

“Being the youngest, Jude was in the locker room all the time with Birmingham FC,” Heaps said. “I used to coach him and I trained him one-on-one because he was the youngest.”

Danielle works from home in commercial real estate for a company in Boston. She goes back to Boston every five weeks. She enjoys seeing her husband interact with their children.

“He’s very patient, a lot more patient than I am,” Danielle said. “He leads by example. The two older ones grew up watching him play and coach, so they have that leadership quality instilled in them.”

Liv enjoys her dad just being dad.

“My dad is the best dad ever,” Liv said. “He’s so involved in our lives as athletes and takes time to play with us, but he also enjoys eating ice cream and watching movies with us.”

And of course, he enjoys making fondue.

Jay Heaps, far right with wife Danielle and their children from left, Jude, Olivia and Jack.

‘It is hard to balance, but for me that’s something that was instilled in me by my father. He was good at showing me how to be there for my family because he was there for us.’

JAY HEAPS

Remember Dad’s Day | June 18

Our leather bottle tote is a stylish and protective way to carry a bottle of wine or whisky to summer picnics, tailgates, and dinner parties!

Kingfisher Leatherworks single barrel bottle tote, $170. Bromberg’s Mountain Brook 205-871-3276, The Summit 205Soap and exfoliating face wash —the perfect gift combo for Dad.

The Traxxas Blast™ is engineered to be fast, reliable, and easy to drive. The installed water cooling system for the motor helps keeps the Blast cool for longer run times and all day fun!

For the modern active Dad, the Cloud lightweight Polo shirt is impossibly soft, functional and comfortable. Tasc Performance, 659-500-9240

Finest Catch 3-in-1 bottle tool opener. Includes bottle opener, corkscrew, knife in stainless steel, $26. Marguerite’s Conceits, 205-879-2730

To:

From:

Date: issue.

It’s only Rock ’n’ roll but Dad likes it, and he’ll love this 1960s Squier Stratocaster by Fender guitar, $189.99. Vintage Interiors, 205-6201900

Dad will love these platinum and 18 Kt gold equestrian estate cufflinks, they are works of art, $950. JB & Co, 205-478-0455

Wooden Alabama catch-all tray crafted using a Japanese Shou Sugi Ban fire technique to add a unique dark finish to the exterior, followed by a clear coat for protection, $42.99. Alabama Goods, 205-803-3900

Help Dad celebrate 100 years of racing at Le Mans by building a Lego replica model of the PEUGEOT

9X9 24H Le Mans Hybrid Hypercar, $209.99. Homewood Toy & Hobby, 205-879-3986

A stylish leather ice bucket, with gold metal ice tong, for the Dad who loves to serve drinks with panache, $250. Henhouse Antiques, 205-918-0505

Up Dad’s griddle game with the Halo Elite 3B Outdoor Griddle. Perfect size for backyard gatherings, $799.99 ($100 off) AllSouth, 205-942-0408

The Fought Cocktail Smoker will change the way Dad experiences food and spirits. Flavored natural smoking fuel is added to the smoker and burnt, creating a cascading waterfall of delicious smoke, $80. The Cook Store, 205-879-5277

The Limited-Edition Chronograph A is a nod to the popular Bulova diver chronographs from the 1970s. Limited to 350 pieces. Swiss made. Southeastern Jewelers, 205-980-9030

SOCIAL

EVENING UNDER THE STARS

Ball of Roses Celebrates Young Women With Dinner and Dancing

Sixty young women were presented to patrons of the Alabama Ballet during the 63rd Annual Ball of Roses on June 3 at the Country Club of Birmingham.

The event was hosted by the Ballet Guild of Birmingham, led by President Cameron Perry Estes and Vice President Brooke Drinkard Whatley.

The festivities began with the debut of this year’s presentees in a seated dinner for members and guests of the Men’s Committee, private patrons of the Ballet Guild of Birmingham. The event continued with a formal presentation in the ballroom for family and friends of the presentees, followed by an evening of dancing.

As guests entered the ballroom, they were greeted by a moss ballerina dancing in a bed of pale blue, peach, coral and green flowers. The ceiling was draped with alternating rows of ivy garland and fairy lights above four live oak trees. In the Men’s Committee, there was a custom green lattice arch adorned with flowers. Satin pointe shoes were placed among the floral designs in the Men’s Committee as a nod to the ballet. All florals were designed by Carole Sullivan.

Eleanor Hodges Tolbert served as the 2023 Ball of Roses chairman, and Elizabeth Ann Williams Sparks served as co-chairman.

Mary Virginia Grisham served as the Men’s Committee Dinner chairman and Callen Clyce Whatley served as co-chairman.

Amanda Healey Ransom and Jackie Bell Hollingsworth served as greenery chairs, coordinating the gathering of donated greenery from the private gardens of homeowners around Mountain Brook and the greater Birmingham area.

Among those in attendance were Dr. and Mrs. Aubrey Derrill Crowe, Mr. and Mrs. Jay Michael Ezelle, Mr. and Mrs. James Ernest Grisham III, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Parker Hendry, Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Robert Hodges, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hardy Phillips, Mrs. Andrew Patrick Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Thomas Tolbert Sr., and Mr. and Mrs. Turner Butler Williams. ❖

Claude and Cameron Estes, Eleanor and Jeff Tolbert

Photos by RD Moore

Bebe and Marguerite Sprain, Eugenie and Buffy Allen

Margaret Porter, Alice and Jeanne Monk

Betsy and Bebe Holloway

Mary Colquitt, Rosemary and Liz Lee

Libba, Duncan and Allison Manley

Passing the Gavel

Members of the Antiquarian Society gathered at the historic home of member and past President Carolyn Drennen to formally conclude the 2022-2023 year with a spring luncheon and installation of new officers.

President Janet Krueger greeted everyone and thanked members of the executive board for their leadership. The group discussed the caliber of this year’s speakers as well as the all-member biennial trip to Columbus, Mississippi.

Member Jeanna Westmoreland gave an amusing presentation as she installed the new officers. The new officers for the 2023-2024 year are President Kay Clark, First Vice President Dottie Hoover, Second Vice President Annalisa Jager, Corresponding Secretary Nancy Terrell, Recording Secretary Elizabeth Koleszar, Treasurer Rebecca Mason and Historian Gina Martin.

Krueger then passed the ceremonial gavel to Clark.

Attending the May luncheon were Cary Baker, Emily Blount, Redonda Broom, Stephanie Byrne, Kirke Cater, Kay Clark, Naomi Cunningham, Susan Dasher, Carolyn Delk, Cece Dillard, Carolyn Drennen, Vickie Drummond, Marsha Duell, Carolyn Featheringill, Fran Fendley, Marjorie

Forney, Joanne Fox, Dianne Gay, Anne Gibbons, Claire Goodhew, Kay Grayson, Charmion Hain, Judith Hand, Jan Hatchett, Jean Hendrickson, Sandra Holley, Dottie Hoover, Annalisa Jager, Barbara Kylce.

Elizabeth Koleszar, Janet Krueger, Audrey Lindquist, Judy Long, Tainey Marcoux, Gina Martin, Nancy Morrow, Mary Jean Myers, Betty Northen, Meridith Peoples, Beverly Phillips, Kathryn Porter, Margie Preston, Gail Pugh, Carla Roberson, Phyllis Russell, Carolyn Satterfield, Sarah Scholl, Janeal Shannon, Nan Skier, Nancy Skinner, Linda Stewart, Rhetta Tatum.

Julie Taylor, Rebekah Taylor, Nan Teninbaum, Nancy Terrell, Carole Thomas, Ellen Tucker, Amy Tully, Jean Vaughn, Barbara Wall, Elizabeth Wallace, Laura Wallace, Liz Warren, Jeanna Westmoreland, Lynda Whitney, Eloise Williams, Margie Williams and Kay Wooten.

Founded in 1944, The Antiquarian Society was formed by a group of women who shared an interest in antiques, heirlooms and architectural elements. This interest has fostered a continued passion for learning and historical study throughout the years that has allowed members to look beyond the decorative object and understand its impact upon our culture.

Janet Krueger, Annalisa Jager, Elizabeth Koleszar, Gina Martin, Dottie Hoover, Kay Clark and Nancy Terrell

The Vestavia Belles, a community service organization in which high school-aged women act as junior hostesses for the city of Vestavia Hills and perform community projects, held its 44th annual presentation recently at the Vestavia Country Club.

Forty-two young ladies were selected as the 2023 Belle class and celebrated the beginning of their term with friends and families at the event.

Guests were welcomed by Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry, mistress of ceremony Clare Huddleston and Vestavia Belles Chairman Rita Greene. Also in attendance was April Moon, director of Children’s Library Services at Vestavia Hills Library, who presented the Library Extra Mile Award to a senior who exhibited leadership, responsibility and initiative during her service to the Summer Reading program last year.

Each senior Belle was presented a

Certificate of Service from Curry and presented with a thank you gift from Greene. Select senior Belles were awarded scholarships based on service, leadership, enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence. Those receiving awards were:

• Nadine Cox Memorial Award, Kate Kaiser

• Vestavia Hills Beautification Board Award, Sophia Lindsey

• Ann Boston Leadership Award, Campbell Johnston

• Vestavia Hills Beautification Board Extra Mile Community Service Award, Amira Walton

Board Extra Mile Award, Abby Saia and Olivia Turner

• Library Extra Mile Award, Christiana Belcher

Each new Vestavia Belle, escorted by her father or other relative, walked through a garden arch and stage featuring lush fern, dogwood branches, palms, pink and white hydrangeas, and other florals. Plants and flowers were provided by Andy’s Creekside Nursery in Vestavia Hills. Following the presentation, guests were served refreshments in the ballroom.

Presentation volunteers included Sherri Arias, Linda Bartholme, Mary Berryman, Mary Kate

Penny Downes, Liz Guest, Lianne

Hand, Susan Jessup, Dominique

Kirby, Jamye Litty, Debra Pounds, Cathy Russell, and Mary Margaret

Yeilding. Casey O’Dell played piano for the group.

The class of 2023 is made up of Macey Maloy Baker, Mary Paten Bean, Julia Kate Bochnak, Meredith Jane Bochnak, Ridley Tate

Box, Barclay Hayes Brown, Isabel Michal Carroll, Lauren Page Christian.

Claire Ann Collins, Camille Lea

Davidson, Virginia Ann Davis, Berkley Elizabeth Dobbins, Madeline Elizabeth Douglas, Laden

Margaret Falls, Mary Kate

Faulkner.

Elizabeth Reese Fetner, Amelia Frances Gentle, Ellery Kathryn Gilbert, Molly Greer Hagler, Hannah Elizabeth Hudson, Kathleen Bryan Hurst, Sidney Katherine Johnson.

Addison Rylea Mann, Ava Elisabeth McCleary, Campbell Collier Moore, Kennedy Claire Moreland, Mary Kenyon Nall, Anna Sophia Nix, Elizabeth Robyn Oswald, Elizabeth Cecilia Peters. Addison Claire Ringer, Manning Russell Roberts, Ellie Kathryn Robicheaux, Elizabeth Lacey Rohner, Maci Grace Rutherford, Madalyn Pate Saia, Riley Elizabeth Shadrick.

Wynn Addison

Stoffregen, Caroline Willa Thames, Caroline Reese Tyndall, Halle Addison Vickers, Caroline Grace Welling. ❖

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S’mores and Pours

Big Crowd Turns Out to Raise Money for Youth Support Group BridgeWays

Avondale Brewery was the site for the 11th annual S’mores and Pours fundraiser on May 11 for BridgeWays Alabama.

More than 400 people were expected at the event, which is hosted by BridgeWays’ Junior Board, according to event coordinator Patty Bromberg.

Live music from T.U.B, food from Taco Mama, pop-up shops and raffles were among the fun things to enjoy. Special activities for children included purple glitter bouncy houses to play in, face painting and a visit with a tiny horse named Cinderella.

BridgeWays is a nonprofit organization that provides programs and expertise relevant to the needs and emerging issues affecting young people. ❖

Mary Ren Stevenson, Helen Steward, Mary Frances Brown, Frances Gaut

Allye Lott, Austin Akins Rachel Glasgow, John Morgan

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Saturday, June 24 - 10 a.m.

Gala in the Gardens

Hydrangeas Under the Stars

Aldridge Gardens was the setting for Hydrangeas Under the Stars, its premier fundraiser of the year, on June 10.

The evening event began with a reception in the Aldridge House and then dinner in the gardens’ open-air pavilion, where guests were surrounded by the fragrant scent of flowers for which the gardens are famed. Live and silent auctions rounded out the evening. ❖

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Jennifer Lipe, Heather Dobnikar, Janna Sutherland, Mark Dobnikar

Journal photos by Jordan Wald Mallory Evens, Kay Aldridge, Kayla Neighbors

Casey and Ebru Middlebrooks

Tynette and Pat Lynch

The Church at Ross Bridge was the place to be April 29 as the Hope for Autumn Foundation held its 16th annual Crawfish Boil.

All you could eat crawfish prepared by Louisiana native John Hein, hamburgers, hot dogs and all the sides were served to hungry guests, who worked up their appetites by participating in a number of activities.

Live music was performed by The Divines and Pioneer Chicken Stand, while children had their own DJ dance party, bounce houses, face painting and balloon animals. Funds raised at the event will benefit families battling childhood cancer in Alabama and help fund local childhood cancer research. ❖

Audra Willingham, Allison DeGweck, Amanda Knerr

Chuck Meek, Savi Meek, Levi Sanford, Sara Meek Treat yourself to a trip to Attic Antiques

and Toni Almeida

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By Anne Ruisi

WEDDINGS Cutting a Rug

Dances at Weddings Go Beyond the Box Step

When Buddy Sharbel took his daughter, Margaret, into his arms in May for the father-daughter dance at her wedding reception at The Club, the tune was anything but traditional.

Instead, the Vestavia Hills resident and his daughter jitterbugged to the Bobby Darin classic, “Mack the Knife,” a song about a serial killer, while her brothers John and Charlie cut in at predetermined points.

While the Sharbels didn’t train for this dance, since father and daughter are accomplished dancers, they did practice a little, with Margaret wearing a gown to simulate her wedding dress and planning the moments when her brothers would cut in, Buddy Sharbel said.

Having her brothers cut in, finally relinquishing their sister to their dad before the dance ended, was Margaret’s idea, Buddy said.

Margaret and her groom, Parker Quigley, a University of Alabama graduate and native of Orlando, Florida, did take dancing lessons to prepare for their first dance as husband and wife.

That couples and members of a bridal party prepping for their big moment on the dance floor take dance lessons isn’t really new, said Kim Smith, owner of Dr. Dance Studio in Bluff Park. But signature dances at wedding receptions are more than a dignified waltz or a series of simple box steps.

“We are seeing more elaborate choreography,” Smith said.

“Mack the Knife” isn’t your usual wedding dance tune, particularly for a touching moment when the bride dances with her dad. But it had special meaning for the Sharbel family.

“My grandfather loved the song,” Margaret said. “People

said it felt like Art (her grandfather) was there. It was neat to have that there. It felt like a family type of thing.”

Family background was reflected during the dabke, a tradi-

tional Lebanese folk dance the Sharbel family and their guests enjoyed during the reception. Dabke combines circle dance and line dancing and is widely performed at weddings and other joyous occasions.

Mr. and Mrs. Parker Quigley’s first dance as a married couple, one of Welsh crooner Tom Jones’ swinging signature songs, “She’s a Lady,” came about due to lessons at a Fred Astaire dance studio in Raleigh, North Carolina, where the couple live.

Safe From Embarrassment

Parker gave Margaret a package of dance lessons for the studio for Christmas last year. The couple, engaged at the time, took them so “we didn’t look like we didn’t know what we were doing,” she said.

“Parker has good rhythm but he didn’t grow up with swing,” like she did, Margaret said. “It ended up being one of his best experiences.”

The weekly Wednesday night classes became almost like a date night for the couple. Their instructor was a Ukrainian woman named Yuliia, who fled with her family from the Russian invasion. They learned steps to the rhumba, foxtrot and other ballroom

See DANCE, page 21

Above, Buddy Sharbel and his daughter jitterbugged to the Bobby Darin classic, “Mack the Knife,” a song about a serial killer, while her brothers John and Charlie cut in at predetermined points. Top, Margaret and her groom, Parker Quigley, took dancing lessons to prepare for their first dance as husband and wife.

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Bromberg’s

china, casual dinnerware, crystal, silver, home décor, and more at our stores in Mountain Brook Village and at The Summit.

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Benefits of registering at Bromberg’s include discounts for attendant and hostess gifts, 20% off wedding bands, a free place setting with the purchase of seven place settings, and our renowned Gift Letter program. Our gift letters allow couples to receive store credit in the amount of each gift purchased from their registry, which reduces the amount of returns and duplicate gifts while allowing the couple to take advantage of special offers and seasonal sales.

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to focus on the unique, with specialties that include bridal, custom, estate and antique jewelry.

At a time when individual service and privacy is of the utmost importance, Bromberg personally works with his clients to select or create just the right piece for the occasion, always adhering to their style and budget. Whether it is a diamond engagement ring, a special piece for your day or repurposing your jewelry in to a new heirloom; JB & CO can help you. His collection of estate jewelry comes from the finest jewelry houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany, Verdura, as well as, designers Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany, Ilias Lalounis, Pierre Sterle’, Elizabeth Locke, Katy Briscoe, Chopard and Ippolita. John also has a select collection of coveted watches from Cartier, Patek Philippe and Rolex.

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John Bromberg is a sixthgeneration GIA trained jeweler with memberships in the prestigious Diamond Dealers’ Club of New York and The American Society of Jewelry Historians.

Wedding Flowers Live On

By Anne Ruisi

Like rice that gets swept up and tossed after a bride and groom get in a limousine outside the church, floral arrangements that grace weddings and receptions often end up in the trash heap.

Saving leftover bridal flowers and recycling them into arrangements that bring joy to residents of senior living centers and hospices is a mission for Haley Sly and the volunteers with Repurposed Blooms, a nonprofit organization serving Birmingham and surrounding areas that Sly began five years ago.

“One guy said, ‘We threw out $75,000 worth of flowers,’” Sly recalled hearing when she started collecting donated flowers, which also come from non-bridal events.

She began in 2018 when she was managing the flowers for her sister’s wedding and thought it would be a good idea to recycle the floral arrangements and take them to nursing homes, assisted living and rehabilitation centers and those receiving hospice care. Sly made seven smaller arrangements from the wedding flowers.

Now, 15 senior living facilities in Jefferson and Shelby counties are regular recipients of the flowers, which are arranged in Mason jars and accompanied by a cheery note written on a card by the volunteers. The flowers also are delivered to other sites, sometimes to as many as 50 places, Sly said.

“Our goal is to bring joy to those in need by delivering flowers with a smile and encouraging

fellowship,” Sly said.

Work begins late on Saturday nights, when most wedding receptions end. Sly, with help mainly from her mother and sister, collects most of the flowers, making the rounds of country clubs and event venues to pick up donated leftovers and take them to Repurposed Blooms’ office in Vestavia Hills.

On Sunday afternoons, volunteers arrive, don work aprons and start to break down the donated flowers, which are often in large arrangements and sprays. Most of the flowers are white, cream or pastel colored.

On a recent Sunday, volunteers delighted in several large arrangements that held peach-colored blossoms. They picked which blooms and greenery they wanted to use for the smaller arrangements, often trimming them or pulling off petals that were withering or brown on the edges.

Creating the arrangements isn’t difficult, as some might assume, Sly said. Newcomers are given basic instructions and other volunteers are always ready to help. All the materials needed, such as scissors, are on hand.

“I tell people not to be intimidated. Make sure the flowers look good and are still alive” when making an arrangement, Sly said.

While most of the arrangements are set in Mason jars, some are in large vases, such as when large flowers are involved. Most of the arrangements are delivered on Mondays but sometimes that extends into Tuesdays.

Since October, the volunteers have made 3,300 floral arrangements for distribution, Sly said. At Christmas, volunteers decorate about 100 small, artificial Christmas trees to give mostly to hospices. Volunteers use hot glue guns to place ornaments on the 10-inch trees.

“Win-Win Thing”

Jeanne Walls of Mountain Brook and her sister, Kathe Patterson, a longtime Cahaba Heights resident who now lives in Irondale, are regular volunteers.

Walls said she found out about Repurposed Blooms in 2020 when her daughter married. Their wedding planner suggested donating the flowers after the reception. When Patterson’s daughter married last year, the same wedding planner suggested giving the leftover flowers to Repurposed Blooms.

The sisters got involved as volunteers when they saw on Instagram that Sly was looking for volunteers. They thought it would be fun to participate, signed up and have enjoyed the experience, they said.

“It’s like being a kid in a candy shop,” Walls said of putting together the arrangements.

Patterson agreed and said it also brings them personal satisfaction.

“It’s such a win-win kind of thing. People have leftover flowers and they don’t get tossed. It’s a creative outlet, therapeutic and you know it’s going to a nursing home or hospice,” she said.

Among the helpers are 40 senior citizens who volunteer through AmeriCorps Seniors. Repurposed Blooms received a $111,000 Senior Demonstration Program Grant funded through the American Rescue Plan.

Many older people have been reluctant to get in group settings since the COVID pandemic and the grant seeks to encourage seniors to get involved as volunteers in their community. The funding helps support the program by paying for materials, snacks for the volunteers, insurance coverage and other items to help the volunteers.

Repurposed Blooms is recruiting volunteers, especially seniors. The goal is to get 125 seniors to participate by next June, Sly said. Anyone who is interested in volunteering or scheduling a donation pickup can visit the website at repurposedblooms.org.

The experience is good for everyone involved, Sly said.

“For the people who make them, it makes their day and offers a creative outlet,” she said. “For the people who receive them, it brightens their day.”

Sandra Miller, 79, is a Galleria Woods resident who distributes Repurposed Blooms at the Hoover senior living center. She takes the delivered arrangements to residents in the center’s skilled nursing and assisted living units.

Some residents have family that visit, but a lot don’t, with some never getting any visitors, Miller said. Receiving a vase of flowers puts a smile on their faces.

“I think it’s a wonderful thing they do,” she said, referring to Repurposed Blooms. “God made those flowers and he doesn’t want them thrown out.”

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Haley Sly, left, with Repurposed Blooms volunteer Kathe Patterson. Sly began repurposing flowers in 2018 when she was managing the flowers for her sister’s wedding and thought it would be a good idea to recycle the floral arrangements and take them to nursing homes.

Image courtesy Eric & Jamie Photography

dances, including some cha cha steps that Margaret described as “tough.”

“Yuliia was so patient. At our last lesson she teared up. We shared a bottle of champagne with Yuliia and her husband,” she said.

The weekly Wednesday night classes became almost like a date night for the couple. Their instructor was a Ukrainian woman named Yuliia, who fled with her family from the Russian invasion.

Several of her friends have signed up for lessons to feel confident before their big days, Margaret said.

“You don’t want to be in front of a couple hundred people and not know what to do” when it’s time to dance, she said.

Among the couple’s bridal party were friends and family from the Over the Mountain area. These included the matrons of honor, Eve Wald Byrne and Becca Harrell Burton; and bridesmaids Ginny Jost Dooley, who is Margaret’s cousin, Sydney Brown Wright, Callie Garrison Inge, Catherine Walker Wiggins, Chandler Rodgers, Julia Simmons, Carly Galbraith Derencz and Cameron Bruce.

Groomsmen from the Over the Mountain area included Margaret’s brothers, John Sharbel and Charlie Sharbel, Jack Carvalho, Paul Roth and Will Edwards.

Earth, Wind and Fire

The father-daughter dance wasn’t to a sentimental tune at Jessica and Matt Martindale’s wedding reception at Avondale Brewery in December 2015. There were gasps of astonishment among the 200 or so family and friends when Jessica and her father, Chuck Dean, hit the dance floor to the rhythm of “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire.

Matt, whom his wife described as more of a traditionalist, chose a Frank Sinatra cover of the Great American Songbook standard, “The Way You Look Tonight,” for their first dance as husband and wife. He and his mother, Sue Martindale of Hoover, danced to a Sheryl Crow cover of “Sweet Child of Mine,” another untraditional song, for the mother-son dance at the reception.

Father/daughter and mother/son didn’t take formal lessons to prepare for their dances, but a friend of Jessica’s showed them how to move.

“It wasn’t majorly choreographed,” Jessica said. “And my dad has four right feet and needed some help.”

“I think he was skeptical of it but he did it because he knew I wanted it. It was something special between us,” she added.

Popular Father-Daughter Wedding Dance Songs

“My Girl” by The Temptations

“She’s a Rainbow” by The Rolling Stones

“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder

“How Sweet It Is” by James Taylor

“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra

“Sweet Pea” by Amos Lee

“Never Grow Up” by Taylor Swift

“Moon River” by Frank Ocean

“Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon source: theknot.com

Above, the father-daughter dance wasn’t to a sentimental tune at Jessica and Matt Martindale’s wedding reception at Avondale Brewery in December 2015. There were gasps of astonishment among the 200 or so family and friends when Jessica and her father, Chuck Dean, hit the dance floor to the rhythm of “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire. Below, Matt and Jessica chose a Frank Sinatra cover of the Great American Songbook standard, “The Way You Look Tonight,” for their first dance as husband and wife.

FLANNERY

From page 24

bles, 11 home runs, 28 runs batted in, 53 runs scored and nine stolen bases while leading Spain Park to a 33-15 record and a Class 7A regional appearance.

Over-the-Mountain softball coaches voted her as the 2023 OTM Player of the Year, the second consecutive season she has received the honor.

“She had a great senior year,” Ritenour said. “Her performance on the field was awesome and she was such a great leader. She was always helping her teammates get better.”

Flannery was surprised to receive the player of the year honor again.

“Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get it again because I got it last year,” Flannery said. “I’m thankful to see all the hard work I put in throughout the season paid off.

“As a team, we didn’t finish as well as I would have liked, but personally I think I played well and had fun, and I tried to be the best teammate I could.”

Flannery recently was named to the Premier Girls Fastpitch 2023 AllAmerican Team. She is headed to the University of Oregon to play in college.

“I’ve always wanted to play at a Power 5 conference school, and when I went out to visit Oregon, I loved the campus and the coaches,” she said.

Vestavia Hills’ John Simmons was voted the 2023 OTM Coach of the Year after guiding the Rebels to a 42-9-1 record. Over-the-Mountain softball coaches voted Katie Flannery as the 2023 OTM Player of the Year, the second consecutive season she has received the honor.

Meet the Team

Flannery heads the 2023 All-OTM Softball Team. She was one of the four Spain Park players voted to the squad, joining third baseman Charlee Bennett (.918 fielding percentage), catcher Maggie Daniel (.444 BA, 10 HR, 14 doubles, 39 RBI), and pitcher Ella Reed (20-9 record, 1.78 ERA, 225 strikeouts).

Hoover had five players selected: first baseman Emily Sims (.985 fielding percentage), second baseman Carolyne Hecklinski (.471 BA), shortstop Bella Foran (.458 BA, 6 HR), outfielder Hannah Christian (.488 BA, 14 dou-

attempts.

bles) and pitcher Kaitlyn Raines (15-3 record, 2.21 ERA, 123 strikeouts).

Vestavia Hills had four players chosen: first baseman Miah Simmons (.350 BA, 8 HR, 51 RBI), outfielder Ella Gallaspy (.356 BA), designated hitter Kayla Franklin (.409 BA, 9 HR) and pitcher Tait Davidson (22-7 record, 1.50 ERA, 254 strikeouts).

Oak Mountain landed three players on the team: catcher Anna DuBose (.309 BA), third baseman Alea Rye (.303 BA, 25 RBI) and outfielder Emma Hawkins (.434 BA, 10 stolen bases).

Mountain Brook had two represen-

2023 All-OTM Softball Team

First Base

Miah Simmons, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Emily Sims, Sr., Hoover

Second Base

Carolyne Hecklinski, Sr., Hoover

Third Base

Charlee Bennett, So., Spain Park

Alea Rye, Jr., Oak Mountain

Shortstop

Katie Flannery, Sr., Spain Park

Bella Foran, Jr., Hoover

Catcher

Maggie Daniel, Jr., Spain Park

Anna DuBose, So., Oak Mountain

Outfield

Hannah Christian, Jr., Hoover

Madison Letson, 8th, Homewood

Emma Hawkins, Jr., Oak Mountain

tatives: outfielder Claire Robinett (.397 BA, 22 RBI) and pitcher Ellie Pitts (10-3 record, 1.79 ERA, 124 strikeouts).

Rounding out the team are outfielders Mallory Ogle (.553 BA, 31 RBI) from John Carroll Catholic and Madison Letson (.421 BA) from Homewood.

Coach of the Year

Vestavia Hills’ John Simmons was

Mallory Ogle, Jr., John Carroll Catholic

Claire Robinett, So., Mountain Brook

Ella Gallaspy, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Designated Hitter

Kayla Franklin, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Pitchers

Tait Davidson, Jr., Vestavia Hills

Ellie Pitts, Sr., Mountain Brook

Ella Reed, Sr., Spain Park

Kaitlyn Raines, So., Hoover

Player of the Year

Katie Flannery, Spain Park

Coach of the Year

John Simmons, Vestavia Hills

All OTM team members selected by voting from Over the Mountain high school softball coaches.

voted the 2023 OTM Coach of the Year after guiding the Rebels to a 42-9-1 record.

“I am honored to be recognized,” Simmons said. “We had some good success. The girls played well and provided some good leadership.

“It was my second year. I’ve really enjoyed Vestavia. We have some great players and I’m just putting things in front of them to be successful. I couldn’t do anything without them.”

From page 24

keep the family tradition.”

Jamie Harris played for legendary Vestavia Hills baseball coach Sammy Dunn while the Rebels were in the midst of winning nine titles in 10 years from 1991-2000.

Jackson Harris played a starring role in bringing the title drought to an end. He had a clutch RBI single in the Rebels’ 4-1 victory in the decisive third game of the championship series against defending champion CentralPhenix City that clinched the title.

It was the finishing touch on a season during which Jackson Harris put up some phenomenal numbers at the plate. He batted .395 with a .534 onbase percentage and a .702 slugging percentage, producing a 1.235 OPS. Among his 49 hits, 24 were for extra bases (15 doubles, four triples and five home runs). He also had 38 runs batted in and scored 37 runs. He drew 20 walks, was hit by pitches 18 times and had seven stolen bases in nine

If that weren’t enough, he had a 3-0 record with a 3.63 earned-run average on the mound in a limited role.

Over the Mountain baseball coaches took note, voting Jackson Harris the 2023 OTM Baseball Player of the Year.

“I am honored to be selected,” Harris said. “My high school career was great and my senior season was special, getting to play with the other seniors who are my friends. We had a lot of team chemistry.

“And it’s cool that my dad gets coach of the year.”

Jamie Harris was tabbed the 2023 Coach the Year, but he took a moment to talk about his son’s honor.

“Wow! I couldn’t draw it up any better with him as a senior beating Central-Phenix City in the championship series,” coach Harris said. “He’s been an unbelievably great player for us for three years. With him being named player of the year, it caps off a magical season.

“It’s a special experience with him being my son and seeing the joy on his

face after we won the state championship. He wanted to win one so bad. He’s grown up around the game since he was born.”

Jackson Harris will follow in his dad’s footsteps and play baseball at Samford. Before he dons the Bulldogs’ uniform, he hopes to add some muscle to his 5-foot-10 frame.

“I’m going to work out this summer and try to get as big as I can,” he said. “I weigh 180 and I’m trying to get to 190-195 before I get to Samford.”

Meet the Team

Jackson Harris is one of seven Vestavia Hills players on the AllOTM team, joining third baseman John Paul Head, catcher Hudson Walburn, outfielders Chris Johnston and Grant Downey and pitchers Aiden Black and Jable Ramey.

Spain Park also landed seven players on the team: first baseman Cole Edwards, third baseman Evan Smallwood, catcher Clay Spencer, outfielder Matthew Widra, designated hitter Jacob Tobias, and pitchers C.J. Gross and Lucas Thornton.

Mountain Brook has five representatives: second baseman James Graphos, outfielders Charlie Berryman, John Robicheaux, and Gabe Young, and pitcher Caleb Barnett.

Homewood put two players on the team: shortstop Levi Nickoli and designated hitter Tripp Gann. Briarwood had two representatives: designated hitter Brady Waugh and pitcher Drake Meeks. Oak Mountain also had two

2023 All-OTM Baseball Team

First Base

Jackson Harris, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Cole Edwards, Sr., Spain Park

Second Base

James Graphos, Jr., Mountain Brook

R.J. Hamilton, Sr., Hoover

Jackson Miller, Jr., John Carroll

Catholic

Third Base

John Paul Head, Jr., Vestavia Hills

Evan Smallwood, Sr., Spain Park

Shortstop

Nick McCord, Jr., Oak Mountain

Levi Nickoli, Fr., Homewood

Catcher

Hudson Walburn, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Clay Spencer, Sr., Spain Park

Outfield

Charlie Berryman, Sr., Mountain Brook

John Robicheaux, Jr., Mountain Brook

Chris Johnston, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Grant Downey, Sr., Vestavia Hills

players voted to the squad: shortstop Nick McCord and pitcher Matthew Heiberger.

Rounding out the team are second basemen R.J. Hamilton from Hoover and Jackson Miller from John Carroll Catholic.

Coach of the Year

Coach Harris led the Rebels to a 34-11 record and the state title in his

Matthew Widra, Jr., Spain Park

Gabe Young, Sr., Mountain Brook

Designated Hitter

Jacob Tobias, Sr., Spain Park

Brady Waugh, Sr., Briarwood

Tripp Gann, Sr., Homewood

Pitchers

CJ Gross, Jr., Spain Park

Matthew Heiberger, Sr., Oak Mountain

Aiden Black, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Drake Meeks, Sr., Briarwood

Lucas Thornton, Sr., Spain Park

Caleb Barnett, So., Mountain Brook

Jable Ramey, Sr., Vestavia Hills

Player of the Year

Jackson Harris, Vestavia Hills

Coach of the Year

Jamie Harris, Vestavia Hills

All OTM team members selected by voting from Over the Mountain high school baseball coaches.

eighth season at the helm, but he spread the credit for the coach of the year honor.

“I think it is a staff award,” he said. “It’s not about me. There were five guys other than me who are passionate about what we do and they deserve all the credit.

“We have such a balanced staff. I’m smart enough to get out of the way and let them coach.”

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Growing the Game

One-Armed Golfer Fourie Forms Partnership With Highland Park

Tomberlin, Highland’s tournament coordinator and operations manager, as well as Highland golf instructor Wayne Flint and player development director Paul Killgallon.

“Cameron, Wayne and Paul are good people and are good to work with,” Fourie said.

Fourie said he also is working on a partnership with Lakeshore Foundation.

Rough Start to Life

Fourie, 29, was born in the Cherkassy Region of central Ukraine with only a left arm as well as a cleft lip and palate due to the damaging effects of radiation from the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986. He has undergone 26 surgeries in his lifetime.

At the age of 7, he was adopted by the Rev. Anton Fourie and his wife, Elizabeth, who were South African missionaries serving in Alabama. At the time of his adoption in 1999, Fourie weighed only 35 pounds and ate soup for nearly every meal. Soon after arriving in the U.S., he began swinging a golf club and eventually became an accomplished golfer.

shoot an instructional video with famed YouTube instructor Rick Shiels.

Through his charity, Single Hand Golf, Fourie has raised money for orphanages called Hope Now in the Cherkassy Region of Ukraine, getting orphans out of the country during its

war with Russia.

“Right now, we’ve gotten out all of the orphans we can get out,” Fourie said. “I think it’s 353. Now we’re providing first-aid kits for people in Kyiv and the region around it. We’ve raised $83,000 at last check.”

By RuBin E. GRant

Alex Fourie has a simple goal in mind, and that’s what led the PGA golf instructor to form a partnership with Highland Park Golf Course.

“We’re looking forward to growing the game of adaptive golf in Alabama and in Birmingham in particular,” Fourie said.

Highland Park, Alabama’s top municipal course, and Fourie, the No. 1 one-armed adaptive golfer in the world and a certified PGA golf instructor, announced the partnership on May 31.

As part of the agreement, Highland Park will be Fourie’s home course and the course logo will appear on his competitive apparel and golf bag.

Fourie will assist the Highland Park junior programs and help Highland Park instructors teach the course’s monthly disabled veterans clinic.

Fourie also will make regular social media posts from or about Highland Park Golf Course.

“I’m excited about it,” Fourie said. “I love Highland. It’s a dream come true, a culmination of a lot of hard work, dreaming, planning and executing, too. It gives me an opportunity to give people a chance to not see their limitations.”

Highland Park Golf Course is the state’s oldest public course and has been named to GOLF Magazine’s list of the “30 Best Municipal Golf Courses in America.” The course property is owned by the city of Birmingham, while Highland Park Golf LLC and it’s managing partner, Bob Barrett, own the long-term lease.

The operation is managed by Troon. Troon, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is the world’s largest golf and golf-related hospitality management company, providing services at 765plus locations, including 760-plus 18-hole equivalent golf courses around the globe.

Fourie said he appreciates the opportunity to work with Cameron

Fourie played in the No. 2 spot on his high school golf team at Shades Mountain Christian before ultimately becoming a PGA golf professional. He is currently level one certified for the Titleist Performance Institute and an associate member of the Titleist Performance Institute.

During the past year, Fourie has appeared on NBC Sports and Golf Channel, and in articles in Forbes, Golfweek, Golf Digest as well as other local news outlets. He recently signed an apparel agreement with Loud Mouth Golf and will soon appear on a podcast with golf legend John Daly. Fourie also has plans to

Alex Fourie

One-Armed Golfer Fourie Forms Partnership With Highland Park Page 23

‘Elite Athlete’

Spain Park’s Flannery Earns OTM Softball Player of the Year Again

By RuBin E. GRant

Allyson Ritenour just finished her first season as Spain Park’s head softball coach, but her relationship with Jaguars’ star shortstop Katie Flannery goes back longer than that.

“I’ve known her since the sixth grade when she was at Berry Middle School,” said Ritenour, who teaches math at Berry and was the school’s head coach before taking over at Spain Park. “She transferred to Hewitt-Trussville for a year and then came back. We have always had a positive relationship.

“I could talk about her all day. It was cool watching her get better each year and become an elite athlete.”

Elite is an apt description of Flannery. In her senior year this spring, she hit .481 with 14 dou-

See FLANNERY, page 22

Family Tradition

Vestavia Hills’ Jackson Harris Gives His Dad a Special Wow! Moment

By RuBin E. GRant

In the wee hours of the morning on May 19, Jackson Harris and his dad, Jamie Harris, were at Vestavia Hills’ baseball field chatting.

It was a celebratory conversation. The Rebels had just returned from a late night at Jacksonville State University, where Jackson Harris, a senior first baseman, had helped his dad, the team’s head baseball coach, bring Vestavia Hills its first state baseball championship since 2000.

“We got home and hung out at the field,” Jackson Harris said. “We sat down and talked together. It was great to win one for him and

See HARRIS, page 22

SPORTS

Thursday, June 15, 2023 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Sports Dad: Legion FC President Heaps Relishes Being a Dad to His Athletic Children Page 10

MEMBERS OF THE 2023 ALL-OVER THE MOUNTAIN SOFTBALL TEAM are, front row from left, Charlee Bennett, Spain Park; Emma Hawkins, Oak Mountain; Mallory Ogle, John Carroll Catholic; Ella Gallaspy, Vestavia Hills; Ellie Pitts, Mountain Brook; and Claire Robinett, Mountain Brook. Middle: Kaitlyn Raines, Hoover; Carolyne Hecklinski, Hoover; Anna DuBose, Oak Mountain; Maggie Daniel, Spain Park; Katie Flannery, Spain Park; Bella Foran, Hoover; and Madison Letson, Homewood. Back: Coach of the Year — John Simmons, Vestavia Hills; Hannah Christian, Hoover; Emily Sims, Hoover; Maia Simmons, Vestavia Hills; Tait Davidson, Vestavia Hills; Kayla Franklin, Vestavia Hills; and Ella Reed, Spain Park. Not pictured: Alea Rye, Oak Mountain.

MEMBERS OF THE 2023 ALL-OVER THE MOUNTAIN BASEBALL TEAM are, above, front row from left, Evan Smallwood, Spain Park; Matthew Widra, Spain Park; CJ Gross, Spain Park; Jackson Miller, John Carroll Catholic; and Nick McCord, Oak Mountain. Back: Caleb Barnett, Mountain Brook; James Graphos, Mountain Brook; Charlie Berryman, Mountain Brook; and Jacob Tobias, Spain Park. Below, from left, from Vestavia, Grant Downey, Hudson Walburn, Aiden Black, Coach of the Year, Jamie Harris, Jackson Harris, Jable Ramey, Christopher Johnston, and John Paul Head. Not pictured: Cole Edwards, Evan Smallwood, Clay Spencer, Lucas Thornton, Spain Park; RJ Hamilton, Hoover; Levi Nikoli, Tripp Gann, Homewood; John Robicheaux, Gabe Young, Mountain Brook; Brady Waugh, Drake Meeks, Briarwood.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald Courtesy