A guide to some of the best local eateries around town.
Remembering a healthcare hero: Friends, patients and co-workers reflect on the legacy of Dr. Mack Barnes.
A SUN-SOAKED GETAWAY
When you cannot stand the gray chill of winter for another minute, it is time to book a trip to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area of Florida for a long weekend away.
What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season? Look no further than the shops right around you.
Anna Grace Moore
Rachel Raiford
Mackenzee Simms
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
Carmen Brown
James Culver
Rachel Culver
Taylor Hager
Sean Hannon
Jonathan Norris
Blair Ramsey
Zachary Riggins
Christiana Roussel
Kelsea Schafer
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
Connor Martin-Lively
Evann Campbell
Octavia Campbell
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION
Mary Jo Eskridge
Alec Etheredge
Stacey Meadows
Lauren Morris
Kayla Reeves
Leslie Reeves
Brittany Schofield
Carmen earned her master’s degree in communication and information sciences from the University of Alabama. She has worked as a magazine feature writer for the last 15 years and also works as a writing coach and copy editor. Her work has been published in HomeCare, Tuscaloosa Magazine, The Executive and more. She enjoys writing articles on a variety of topics, especially health and wellness and inspirational articles on human resilience. Check out her website at carmensheabrown.com.
Kelsea is a student at Hoover High School. She lives in Hoover with her family and two dogs, Fendi and Riley. When not in class, she is behind the camera, shooting sports, events or senior portraits wherever possible while running Kelsea Schafer Photography. During her free time, she is often at Lewis Smith Lake, enjoying all things sun, boating and wake surfing with her family and friends.
Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair has two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography.com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.
Christiana Roussel is a Birmingham-based, award-winning food, travel and lifestyle writer. Naturally curious, she relishes any opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. She is a proud member of the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier as well as the Industry Advisory Board of Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management. Her other interests include bourbon, bacon, a great wardrobe capsule, upland hunting, pork rinds, pilates and power walks that include four-leaf clovers and feathers. Follow her online at @christiana.roussel.
Mountain Brook Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Mountain Brook Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Mountain Brook Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.
Mountain Brook Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Mountain Brook, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit MountainBookMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting MountainBrookMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.
Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@mountainbrookmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
Mountain Brook native Lake Thompson is diving head-first into the fashion industry.
EEvery year, I think to myself, “They can’t possibly put this year on glasses!” And, every year, I’m wrong. I’m not sure whether it’s the friend group getting back together or the onset of new traditions that excites me the most on New Year’s Eve.
One thing I do know, however, is I always reflect on the year’s highs and lows, giving thanks to the people who made my year so special. More often than not, I find myself thanking you, readers, and our wonderful community.
The Mountain Brook High School Dorians won gold in the “large varsity high kick” division at the Universal Dance Association (UDA) National Dance Team Championship on Saturday, Feb. 4. While the team had competed for decades with multiple “top 10” finishes, they achieved something that had never been done thus far in program history.
I had the privilege of interviewing coach Anna Scofield and several of her dancers, and I remember feeling invigorated listening to their discipline—teamwork prevails through trials. Overcoming obstacles yields strong character, and such lends itself to a more giving, more understanding heart.
One of my favorite stories I wrote this year taught me about having heart during hardships. Libby’s Friends is a nonprofit that awards grants to families with children who have special needs, in order to alleviate the financial stressors associated with such needs.
Libby’s Friends’ co-founder Lane Hagan taught me that while we cannot control everything that happens to us in life, we can control how we respond. More often than not, the trials we walk through enable us to understand one another and make us more willing and able to bless others in their time of need.
Reflecting on this past year, I realized that with every person I interviewed, I learned something new. Each story I wrote taught me something about myself, and more importantly, how I can become a better version of myself—often by modeling the character of those whose stories I share with you all.
In this issue, you all will read stories from University of Alabama student Laken Thompson, Mountain Brook Director of Bands James Rogers, Little Betty Steak Bar co-founder Jamey Shirah, Kathy Thomson and the loved ones of Dr. Mack Barnes. Each story is different and what I hope will spark a renewed hope in each of you—the encouragement that with the new year approaching, new traditions will be made, new goals will be made and new memories will be made with your loved ones.
My hope is that whatever you may learn in the coming year, you will share with me as I share our community’s stories with the world.
“THE QUESTION
”
What
your
Bromberg’s tree being lit
-Draper Rushing Suttles
Cooler weather, fun activities
-Angie Marini
December is the red and green of Christmas with smiling faces under the tree and a time to remember that God sent His son to save us from our lifetime of sin.
-Janis Teller
Chill in the air. Football. Family and friend gatherings. Yummy food. Sweaters and boots.
-Melanie Smith Maxwell
It’s cold, it’s my birthday, and the vibes are chill
-Sage Kazinec
Stone crabs are in season
-Vikki Cottrell Jensen
Anticipating family get togethers
-Theresa Berst Hawkins
Two straight months when eating dressing is appropriate!
-Allen Barlow
Tag us in your Mountain Brook photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.
@doodles_of_lakeoconee
First day of school for my bestie
@hollandwilliamsphotography
I’ve been keeping a secret. And then life stayed busy and I forgot to tell y’all about it. This summer has flown - and when I’m not working, I’m enjoying every second with my kids - I don’t want it to end. Summers with little kids were hard. Funny how things change. So if you’re still reading, as much as I hate showing my face on here, I won a little award, and it’s all because of YOU! 15 + years ago, I walked into a pawn shop and sold some of my jewelry to buy an early version of Photoshop. I didn’t want to owe my husband or family anything if my little dream turned into a flop. So thank you, thank you to my precious friends, family and clients for voting me: “Best Photographer” for 2024. I am so grateful, and I can’t wait to slap this cool sticker on my office door!
“first touch” moments with Mary Collins & Thomas 1000% recommend a first touch if you are opting to not do a first look, and you want to wait to see each other down the aisle! This will calm a little bit of nerves, and allows for a few intimate moments together before becoming husband & wife!
#seniornight with the Spartans! It was so great to cover the Spartans on their senior night. The Mountain Brook community showed up strongly supporting their team at their first home game of the season! @mtnbrookfbl plays an away game against Hueytown next Friday, and is back in Spartan Stadium, September 13th against Pell City. Go Spartans!
THE 14TH ANNUAL LEGACY LEAGUE CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR DEC. 12
VIEWINGS FROM 10 A.M.-2 P.M.; 4 P.M.-8 P.M.
Five beautifully-appointed Homes in Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Homewood
Presented by ARC Realty, the Samford University Legacy League’s 2024 Christmas Home Tour will feature five uniquely beautiful homes in Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Homewood with holiday treats and pop-up shoppes at the Samford President’s Home. The Legacy League is a philanthropic organization that provides life-changing scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances. Advance tickets are required; sales open on Nov. 1. Visit samford.edu/ legacyleague to learn more.
Brought to patrons by the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce, the villages’ holiday open houses will feature festive camaraderie, holiday discounts, light refreshments and more. Come shop at these events to support local businesses near you.
NOV. 21: Crestline Village Holiday Open House
DEC. 5: Mountain Brook Village Holiday Open House
DEC. 12: English Village Holiday Open House
NOV. 16
7 P.M.
Mountain Brook High School
The 58th annual Miss Olympian Pageant is back this November! Come out to enjoy the talents of Mountain Brook High School students, who will compete to represent their school and community. The contestants will participate in an interview, a dance number and an evening walk before the winner is crowned. Follow the organization on Instagram at @missolympianpageant for updates.
NOV. 7
Jazz Band Concert
Brock Recital Hall at Samford University
NOV. 7
Homewood Holiday Open House
Downtown Homewood
NOV. 8
Dunn’s Turkey Drop
Chase Bank
3748 Lorna Rd
NOV. 10
Academy of the Arts Recitals
Brock Recital Hall at Samford University
NOV. 15
Big Ideas Book Club Homewood Public Library
NOV. 15
Sarah Gilliland, Author of Perfect Day Alabama Homewood Public Library
NOV. 15
An Evening with Ellie and Drew Holcomb
The Wright Center at Samford University
NOV. 16
Deck the Heights Heights Village
NOV. 22
Alabama Symphony Orchestra Presents Coffee Concerts: Bartók
Alys Stephens Center – Jemison Concert Hall at UAB
DEC. 3
Vestavia Hills’ Tree Lighting Festival
Vestavia Hills City Hall
DEC. 5
Montevallo Christmas Parade
Downtown Montevallo
DEC. 5
Hanging of the Green & Lighting of the Way Samford University
DEC. 6
Columbiana Christmas Parade Downtown Columbiana
DEC. 7
Alabaster Christmas Parade Highway 31 South
DEC. 7
Breakfast with Santa Samford University
DEC. 7
Helena Christmas Parade Highway 261
DEC. 7
Calera Christmas Parade Main Street in Downtown Calera
8 A.M.
3785 Jackson Boulevard
The annual Mountain Brook Fraternal Order of Police races are back again this year. The 5K race begins at 8 a.m., and the one-mile fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. The 5K and fun run will take place at Crestline Elementary School. Dogs are welcome, too! Register for this event at runsignup.com.
8:30 A.M.
Levite Jewish Community Center 3960 Montclair Road
Back and benefiting the LJCC and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama, the Sam Lapidus Montclair Run’s 10K and 5K races take place on Thanksgiving Day. Find more details and register at runsignup.com.
Mountain Brook Village
As one of Mountain Brook’s most beloved events, the Mountain Brook Holiday Parade is back again this year and will feature a parade of floats, fire trucks, bands, choral groups, dancers and of course, Santa Claus, himself, parading down through Mountain Brook Village. To learn more information or inquire about having your float in the parade, email chamber@mtnbrookchamber.org.
DEC. 8
Vestavia Hills Holiday Parade & Party in the Park Liberty Park Middle School
DEC. 10
2024 Lighting of the Star and Homewood Christmas Parade Downtown Homewood
DEC. 14
Pelham Christmas Parade
Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena
DEC. 21
Chelsea Christmas Parade
Chelsea Middle School to Winn-Dixie
JAN. 16-19
High School Honor Band Concert The Wright Center at Samford University
The Vestavia Hills Shares card is a fundraiser partnered between the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and VHCS Arts and Athletics groups and teams. The participating businesses are offering great deals for 10 months!
Purchase a card for only $30 to support your favorite student or club!
Cards are valid August 5, 2024-May 31, 2025.
SCAN TO PURCHASE!
You can save the card to your phone wallet or pick up a physical card from the Chamber.
American Kolache Bandwagon Birmingham School of Music Biscuit Love Blue Willow
Bridgett Glasgow-ERA King Real Estate Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Cafe Iz Cahaba Nutrition Cartridge World Clover + Bee Darnell’s Fun Stuff Davenport's Pizza Dear Emmaline Family Medical Supply Fleet Feet Birmingham
GLAM Beauty Boutique HaMi Boutique HOTWORX Vestavia Hills Jeremiah’s Italian Ice of Vestavia Leaf & Petal Little Soles Minette Boutique McDonald’s Vestavia Hills Mia Moda MONOGRAMS PLUS Mudtown Eat & Drink Orangetheory Fitness Vestavia Hills Relax The Back Rocky Ridge Drug Co. Rocky Ridge Hardware rolls bakery Romeo's Sporting Goods Salon Summit Six16 Creative Slice Stone Pizza and Brewhouse Smoothie King #1365, LLC Taco Mama Tanology Spray Tan & Beauty Bar Taziki's The Elinor The Lili Pad & GiGi’s The Retreat Day Spa
The Ridge The Smocking Bird The Standard Troup's Pizza Vestavia Bowl Vestavia Nails Village Dermatology Waldo’s Chicken and Beer
Emerging designer Laken Thompson believes the hottest trend in fashion is the dare to be different.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY JONATHAN NORRIS, ZACHARY RIGGINS & CONTRIBUTED
AAlluring generations of innovative minds, the fashion industry is ever-evolving, constantly changing “keeping up with the times” as timeless and trendy designs evoke a sense of selfexpression–a yearning to be understood, to be loved or even to be put on a pedestal. Such a seductive art form is one rich in talent, and Mountain Brook native Laken Thompson is diving head-first into the industry.
A senior apparel and textiles major at the University of Alabama (UA), Laken grew up in Crestline, where she says her community influenced her to “think outside of the box.” Her parents, Michael and Cheryl Vann, too, encouraged her artistic endeavors, beginning when Laken developed a passion for drawing.
“She has been drawing dresses since she was 6 or 7 years old,” Cheryl says.
Cheryl often found her daughter sketching colorful blouses and skirts–anything that she wanted but could not find in stores. If she could
dream it, she could draw it.
After working in dental hygiene, Cheryl took a leap of faith and opened her own online clothing store, Gypsy Girl Tween Boutique, which Laken helped run behind the scenes.
“I helped her with buying [apparel] at the Atlanta Apparel Mart,” Laken says. “I really enjoyed helping my mom. I thought it would be fun to turn that into a career.”
Like many other Mountain Brook students, she says attending UA was a no-brainer, thanks to the university’s diverse range of majors. Laken started out as a finance major with hopes of earning a business degree, but not a semester into her freshman year did she decide to pursue a more creative outlet, fashion.
“Laken is an exceptional student who consistently demonstrates creativity, drive and a genuine passion for design,” says Brian Taylor, Senior Instructor in the Department of Clothing, Textiles and Interior Design at UA. “She is not only dedicated
“The department of clothing, textiles and interior design stands out with its blend of traditional craftsmanship and the latest industry innovations. We are proud to offer students a new building, Drummond Lyon Hall, equipped with industrystandard equipment and state-of-the-art technology, immersing them in an environment that mirrors a real-world design studio. The new design studios provide students with all the tools they need to develop their skills in a professional setting. Our student exhibition space allows students to showcase their work and communicate the story behind their design concepts. These resources, combined with internship opportunities and our emphasis on both creative and technical skills, make our program truly unique.”
— BRIAN TAYLOR, SENIOR INSTRUCTOR IN THE DEPARTMENT OF CLOTHING, TEXTILES AND INTERIOR DESIGN AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
to her own work, but is also highly collaborative, always contributing thoughtful feedback during group critiques.”
Each year, the university hosts the Tee Time Fashion Show, which features clothing designed and created by students. The real kicker is that all of the materials are sustainably sourced.
One of Laken’s first projects involved repurposing wedding dresses into outfits brides could wear after their “big day.”
“I took this wedding dress–a ball gown–and I completely deconstructed it,” Laken says. “It had a bunch of beading on it. I took all of the beading off, and made it into a strapless top with a long skirt at the bottom. I put different flowers going down the skirt. My idea behind that was to take different florals from your wedding day and the different color schemes and put them onto the dress as well.”
Another outfit Laken created involved detaching a wedding dress’ lace overlay, refabricating it onto a silk bodice for a top-and-skirt set.
“She spent all night trying to get [the fabric] to lay correctly,” Michael says. “Most people would have folded and said, ‘Forget it!’ She made it work, and it looked incredible. People raved about it.”
Michael believes Laken is truly an inspiration due to her sheer tenacity in overcoming obstacles. During the summer of her junior year, Laken interned with Brooklyn-based designer Paul Carroll at his studio in New York City.
Unlike most interns, Laken received a hands-on experience, from sketching designs to creating and cutting out patterns to even constructing bodices and sewing fabrics together. Michael says everything Laken did, she did on her own–fear was no factor for her living so far away from home for so long.
“When most people run from fear, she takes on a big task and runs to it,” Michael says. “I think that’s something that makes her special. When everything is said and done, she’ll make a difference.”
Laken’s love for travel has inspired her to explore sustainable fashion sourced from ethical materials.
Margaret Ann Pyburn mpyburn@cacgroup.com
Margaret Brooke mbrooke@cacgroup.com
Billy Walker bwalker@cacgroup.com
Brooke Ferrell bferrell@cacgroup.com
She and her family even traveled as far as Thailand and Vietnam for weeks on-end, meeting designers and textile workers face-to-face to learn about how materials are created.
“There are stores where you can go in and get your measurements taken, and they’ll actually make the outfits for you,” Laken says. “It was pretty cool to be able to see first-hand how different things are made.”
Several of these fabrics Laken brought back to use in her school projects. To create her designs, Laken begins by sketching a dream onto paper, utilizing different graphite pencils and alcoholbased markers for definition.
Once she decides on a design, Laken will choose her fabrics–often various muslins and silks–pinning cut-out pieces onto a dress form in the arrangement of the drawing. After constructing the pinned bodice, Laken will take to the sewing machine.
During Laken’s junior year, she created a twopiece outfit made of pillow piping for the Tee Time Fashion Show. The top featured a sweet-heart neckline fashioned in a crocheted-style design; the matching mini skirt gave off a beachy vibe.
“Her ability to take inspiration and translate it
“
” When most people run from fear, she takes on a big task and runs to it. I think that’s something that makes her special. When everything is said and done, she’ll make a difference.
- Michael Vann
into innovative designs is impressive,” Brian says. “Laken approaches every project with a sense of curiosity and professionalism, making her a standout in the classroom.”
Looking forward, Laken says New York City is on her horizon. After graduating, she plans to move to The Big Apple, working under designers as she gradually builds her portfolio and starts her own fashion line.
To other young, aspiring designers, she says to heed the counsel she was given: Think outside the box.
“It’s important to have a different take on creativity within the industry because if you’re starting out doing a business, and you’re doing whatever everyone else is doing, it won’t get you far,” Laken says.
Fashion is visual humanity on display–an intimate form of storytelling unspoken yet understood to the naked eye. Harnessing such creativity, Laken will emerge as the next top designer in years to come.
Look out, Mountain Brook. Laken Thompson is on the rise.
To follow Laken Thompson’s career, follow her on Instagram @lakenthompson_.
Recommendations from Rachel Owens
Children’s Librarian at the O’Neal Library
Rachel Owens has been with the O’Neal Library Children’s Department for 15 years. She performs story-times for babies and lower elementary students, as well as a book club for emerging readers and their parents. Besides books, she spends her time immersed in music and the outdoors.
Rachel and her husband also conduct hours and hours of library book quality control with their own littles, Isaac and Etta. Here, Rachel recommends her top five winter reading suggestions for children.
By Hannah Harrison | Fiction
A not-very-sleepy bear needs a little help focusing on hibernation preparation. After the bear makes itself at home in the well-stocked kitchen of a house, the little girl who lives there tries to help the bear beef up and get back to its den. Shenanigans follow. From “awake” to “zzzzzz,” expressive watercolors bring bear and girl through the alphabet from mischief to mellow. Share this silly story with preschoolers who are excited about their ABCs.
By Barbara Nass | Fiction
Autumn is about to turn to winter, and Squirrel is ready to close up his tailor shop and hunker down at home. However, his forest friends keep coming to him with last-minute problems that require sartorial solutions. Despite his growing urgency to build his winter home before the snow arrives, Squirrel helps each friend and soon learns that when it comes to kindness, what goes around comes around. It’s the justright picture book to greet winter with laughter and friendship. Families will adore the moments they spend bonding with each other over this fun, furry tale.
By Corey Tabor | Fiction
“Fox does not like winter,” the narrator informs readers on the first page of this hilarious title. Brand new readers can make their way independently through the story of Fox as he tries to solve winter, outsmart it, fight it (with fire) and finally accept it for the sweetness it holds. Children will love the humor in this story, and parents will love watching them smile, reading along.
By Gary D. Schmidt | Fiction
Award-winning author Gary D. Schmidt offers readers in lower elementary school the quiet tale of a boy and his dad who spend a day together making trades with community members. Samuel and Papa start out with just a Barlow knife and good manners; they aim to bring home a milk cow for Mama. With short chapters and colorful illustrations, this slim volume of historical fiction makes a warm, giggly family read-aloud on a chilly evening and the perfect book to read before bedtime.
By Charles Trevino | Fiction
Those who prefer a beach in winter can saunter down the shore with a little girl whose story consists entirely of words that start with the letter, “S.” The wordplay and vocabulary will appeal to emerging readers, while preschoolers can delight in the emotional highs and lows of the wonder-infused plot. Best of all, the cozy ending makes this book a perfect bedtime story. Pick up this cozy book for both an educational and fun-filled read-aloud time with kids.
D E E P P L A N E F A C E L I F T
S C U L P T L I F T
R H I N O P L A S T Y
S K I N R E S U R F A C I N G
E Y E L I D S U R G E R Y
F A C I A L I M P L A N T S
B O T O X & F I L L E R
L I P A U G M E N T A T I O N
H A I R T R A N S P L A N T S
N E O G R A F T
M E D I S P A T M
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The Mountain Brook Junior High Band performs in the 2024 Animado Events Invitational.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
UUnder the direction of Mountain Brook Schools
Director of Bands James Rogers, Associate Director Sarah Niedzwiecki and Assistant Director Dr. Michelle Smith, the Mountain Brook Junior High Band performed in the Animado Events Invitational, otherwise known as the New York Invitational Festival, at Carnegie Hall on Tuesday, March 19. According to animadoevents.com, the word “animado” is Spanish for vivacious, exciting and fun, which all describe students’ experiences in the invitational.
Mountain Brook Junior High put its namesake city on a national scale as it was not only the only middle school band invited to perform, but it was also the only band from Alabama to perform as
well. To pay tribute to the Yellowhammer State, James, Sarah and Michelle chose all original music created by Alabama composers.
James says his students were chosen because of their musical ability, but this was an achievement four years in the making. On March 13, 2020, James had his ensemble students record several arrangements, in order to submit the band’s application to the Animado Events selection committee.
He explained it would take some time before the results would be announced, meaning those in the video would not get to perform at Carnegie Hall. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students years from the initial taped audition reaped the
benefits.
“They wanted to do that because they knew the impact it would have not just for our band program, but, in some cases, for their siblings and the younger members of the band,” James says.
Out of the 120-member band, 107 students and 74 parents and chaperones went on this trip. The 2023-24 President of the Mountain Brook Junior High Band Leadership Council Emma Durr says the trip was an opportunity of a lifetime.
“I think it’s so fun that we’re able to go somewhere like Carnegie Hall,” she says. “The title itself holds so much weight. The fact that my friends helped me get here is kind of bizarre to believe.”
Emma, who is now in 10th grade at Mountain Brook High School, plays alto saxophone and says her time in band has helped her develop not just as a musician, but also as a leader.
“I’ve grown tremendously musically,” she says. “I had to figure out how to help my section through some of the harder pieces like how to count and guide them through harder portions. It was just a fun time, and I hope I will be able to remember this forever.”
Avery Faircloth, who served as the vice
president of leadership for the Mountain Brook Junior High Band Leadership Council, has been involved with the band since she was in sixth grade. As a trumpetist, she says she chose her instrument for its resonating sound.
“When learning music, you have to think about it in such a different way,” she says. “When it comes to studying, it’s kind of helped me think in new ways to help me learn information like how to learn the music.”
Elliott Gechijian, who plays the tenor saxophone and is now in ninth grade at Mountain Brook Junior High, agrees, saying all of the band directors emphasize the importance music has in a student’s academic career.
“Music lets me focus,” he says. “I was able to get into the same mindset when studying. So if I have to write an essay, I can do that all at once in the same way that I can read through my music and practice it for an hour and a half or two hours.”
James says he, Sarah and Michelle challenged their students, picking several selections that were more difficult to play. In addition to the countless hours of practice, the band hosted “Carnegie Camp Day,” where students came in one weekend to get in several extra hours of performance practice. They also held after-hours band rehearsals every two weeks leading up to the event.
The Mountain Brook Junior High Band honored five Alabama composers, performing their compositions during the 2024 Animado Events Invitational at Carnegie Hall in New York City:
“Sky Bound” | JON BUBBETT
“Ghosts of the Lost Ship” | TYLER S. GRANT
“Too Beautiful for Words” | ROB GRICE
“The Great Locomotive Chase” | ROBERT W. SMITH
“The Singing River” | JOHNNIE VINSON
To learn more about the band’s performance or find more information on the invitational, visit animadoevents.com.
“We are so proud of the work that they’ve been doing,” Sarah says. “It really has just been amazing to see them meet our expectations that we set so high for them.”
The first arrangement the band performed was “Sky Bound” by Jon Bubbett, who lives in Helena with his family and taught at Thompson High School for 26 years out of his 38-year-long career. Sarah conducted this opening piece as well as “Ghosts of the Lost Ship” by Tyler S. Grant–a Pelham native whose many accolades include winning the Dallas Wind Symphony’s 2014 “Call for Fanfares” Competition.
Michelle took to the stage next to conduct “Too Beautiful for Words,” which was originally written by Rob Grice. Rob’s compositions have been performed globally at the Midwest Clinic, Society of Winds in Germany; the Texas Music Educators Conference; Bands of America Regional Championship; as well as venues in Europe, Japan and Australia.
Afterwards, James conducted “The Great Locomotive Chase,” which was composed by Robert W. Smith, who James says was one of the biggest champions for music education until his passing in September 2023. Robert was both an alumnus of and a professor at Troy University, and following his teaching career, he worked with Warner Bros., traveling all over the world as a
At Children’s of Alabama, kids are the center of our world and our mission is to provide the very best care available to every child. It’s why we are here.
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guest conductor for band ensembles.
Sarah closed out the performance, conducting “The Singing River” by Johnnie Vinson. Johnnie’s portfolio includes more than 500 arrangements and compositions, some of which he created as the Director of Bands for Auburn University, where he taught for many years.
James, who was both a student and is now a teacher in Mountain Brook Schools, says the school system has the best students, parents, faculty and staff, who all have played a part in the program’s success.
“Being an alum, being someone that is in year eight at Mountain Brook and year 12 overall teaching, I have to say we’re incredibly blessed,” he says. “We wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the support of our administration and the support of the school system. We’ve worked with the students to make sure that they’ll be set up for success in that way.”
A student’s blessings are abundant when his community supports the arts, and more importantly, the doors that music will open in his life. In Mountain Brook, students remain the community’s top priority, and what a wonderful world that is to grow up in.
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Our team ensures that every aspect of your transact ion is carefully managed, from listing to closing and everything in between. We have a dedicated support staff that assist your agent with the listing, mark eting and closing of your purchase and sale. Every detail matters! We provide value and elite service that is unparallel and truly sets us apart.
Charles Nowlin officially incorporated Nowlin and Associates in 1985 after recognizing an underserved need in the Birmingham area for comprehensive financial services. Founded on integrity, quality products and excellent service, Nowlin and Associates has grown to become one of Alabama’s leading financial firms with clients across the country.
Prior to Nowlin and Associates, Nowlin got his footing in the life insurance business in 1970 in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1974, he moved to the Birmingham area where he started Nowlin and Associates as a life and disability insurance office.
“Over the years, we’ve been able to expand our offerings, which in turn helped us grow our client base and community,” Nowlin said.
Justin Craft, President of Nowlin and Associates, notes the shift in the 1980s from selling insurance
and financial products to becoming a financial planning firm as one of the biggest turning points in the company’s history.
This year being their 50th anniversary, Nowlin and Associates wants to recognize the community of Birmingham and surrounding areas for not only boosting their success, but for giving them a bigger family they can rely on thanks to their staff and the community.
“The difference in this firm, and the reason we’ve been here 50 years is the people and the culture,”
Craft said.. “He (Nowlin) taught me to take that very seriously, that teamwork is very important. Anything worthwhile is never accomplished alone.”
Craft’s hope is that the firm’s clients realize that the team behind Nowlin and Associates is working hard to ensure they are performing to the best of their
ability.
Nowlin pointed out that although they work in a competitive sales environment, the employees at Nowlin and Associates are not in competition with each other.
“If he wins, we all win. That’s the attitude here,” Nowlin said. “Everyone here has helped each other, and there’s a combination of people working together, finding out where and how they work best together. The client wins, we win and that’s how you build and grow.”
With 50 years of experience in the business, Nowlin and Associates has been through decades of change, whether that’s technological or personal. Nowlin and Craft noted one of the main changes has been the way the firm is able to communicate with clients.
how we communicate with clients day-to-day both have changed a lot. It’s normal for me to have fourto-five Zoom calls a day and only one or two inperson meetings, but it’s still all about the personal touch you can give to each client–that’s what’s important.”
While Nowlin and Associates’ 50th anniversary celebration can’t be open to their clients nationwide, they do plan on inviting friends and family of their employees to their office to celebrate this milestone.
He (Nowlin) taught me to take that very seriously, that teamwork is very important. Anything worthwhile is never accomplished alone.
- Justin Craft
“I think a lot of it is how we’re able to serve clients. We have access to massive amounts of research now,” Craft said. “Having access to more data and
“I’m looking forward to bringing everyone in and commemorating this time,” Craft said.
Nowlin noted that part of the reason Nowlin and Associates has made it this far is due to the succession of leadership.
“Justin, what he’s done in the last 10-15 years, how he got here and the people that we have are doing really well. They stay here with us, and I believe that’s because of the family we’ve built.”
Rachel Weingartner
Executive Director of the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Since its inception in 1992, the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation has raised more than $10 million for Mountain Brook Schools and currently has more than $12 million in its endowment fund, thanks to the generosity of Mountain Brook patrons. Here, the foundation’s executive director Rachel Weingartner details not only the integral role the foundation plays in the school system, but also how the community is to thank for the foundation’s success.
Why did you choose to work in fundraising?
I have been in professional fundraising for well over a decade–close to 15 years. I previously fundraised for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville. I also fundraised here, when I moved back to Birmingham, for Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama. When I was approached about this role in 2019, it was a true no-brainer for me because I knew my children would be in the Mountain Brook Schools system, and to be able to have a role, professionally fundraising for my children’s education, was something that I was thrilled to be a part of.
How has the foundation impacted the lives of students and teachers in the community?
Morgan Chatham, who’s a Mountain Brook High School teacher, applied for a grant because she wanted her students in math class to engage with each other more. We funded her ideas–white boards all the
way around her classroom, some digital projectors–things that do cost a lot of money in terms of a public school budget. Once that pilot project was proved to work, the other math teachers at the high school loved the model. You can see how foundation dollars allowed for a teacher to think outside the box, to think innovatively and to try something so that if it worked, it could then become the standard in the school system.
What are some of the ways the foundation gives back through community participation?
“Give 180” is a campaign a lot of people see around the community. The idea is that we ask families with students in the district to give a dollar for every day their student is learning in Mountain Brook Schools. It’s $180 for the 180 days they’re in school. The only fundraising “event” that we do is a track meet in the spring, and it has all four elementary schools’ participation. Last year, the track meet raised over $80,000 for the foundation,
and more than 720 students participated, which is really amazing.
What would you say is one of the reasons why the foundation is as successful as it is today?
Mountain Brook Schools are truly at the heart of what makes Mountain Brook a community. So many people move to Mountain Brook because we are one of the top public schools in Alabama. You can run a public school system on government funding, but in order to have the best public school system in the state, members of our community do need to contribute.
How does the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation play an integral part in the school system’s vitality?
A donation to the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation is an investment in our school system. It is a way to make sure for your children and grandchildren that the school system stays strong, which is essential to the success of Mountain Brook as a community.
Little Betty Steak Bar’s culture yields the perfect ingredients for a fine dining experience.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
TThe brainchild of brothers and restaurateurs Jamey and Benjie Shirah, Little Betty Steak Bar opened its doors for the first time in December 2023 in Lane Parke. As the eighth restaurant created by the Atlanta-based Revival Restaurant Group, Little Betty has become renowned for its Tuscan and Asian-infused cuisine, riddled with couture cooking styles–compliments of Executive Chef Kyle Biddy.
Jamey, who is the CEO of Revival Restaurant Group, says he and Benjie grew up on a commercial farm in Georgia, learning Southern hospitality was more than just a way of service. It was a way of life.
After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in economics, Jamey found himself stuck in a nation-wide recession with dwindling
luck in the job market. He struck gold after approaching his then bosses about opening a sports bar in Athens–The Ivy–which was not only the first successful launch from Revival, but has now also celebrated 14 years of business.
Over the next 15 years, the Shirah brothers worked with their business partners to open The Southern Kitchen and Bar and Uptown Cantina in Birmingham, as well as other restaurant concepts in Nashville and Atlanta.
In 2022 when Lane Parke was expanding, Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors reached out to the dynamic duo, asking them to come to the “foodie city,” Birmingham.
“We love the area, we love the space, we love Lane
“
Parke in and of itself,” Jamey says. “We love the whole Mountain Brook area, and we actually just love Birmingham as a city. Birmingham is on people’s radars big time. We have a bunch of relationships in the restaurant world, and it’s talked about quite often. We’re super grateful to the Mountain Brook and greater Birmingham market for the support that we’ve seen this far. It’s been absolutely outstanding.”
Benjie was serendipitously introduced to Kyle through a chance encounter. Kyle, at the time, was working as the Chef De Cuisine at Catch Steak Aspen in Colorado. His extensive resume boasts impressive feats such as working for celebrity chef Troy Guard at Guard and Grace–which is Forbes
” People come in for the food, but they come back for the service. If you create a beautiful space and you serve incredible food and you do it with people who really care, you will have business forever.
- Jamey Shirah
Top 50-ranked.
In Catch Steak’s first year of business, Kyle helped lead his cook staff to win “Best New Restaurant” in Aspen. Jamey says recruiting Kyle to work for Little Betty was a no-brainer, especially as Kyle played such a heavy hand in creating the menu, whose dishes are all made from scratch.
“I’m incredibly proud of what our team here has achieved in such a short period of time and our commitment to getting one-percent better every single day,” Kyle says. “That’s become sort of our mantra since we’ve opened–make it one-percent better every single day. I think you can see that in our constant push to make the food better than yesterday and to provide the best dining experience you can find in Mountain Brook.”
While Little Betty has become famous for its steaks and wines, one would be remiss not to try any
of its small plates or pastas. A sublime suppertime option, the roasted bone marrow pairs porterhouse marmalade, hearth aioli, crispy shallots, pickled mustard seeds and grilled bread for a hearty appetizer that is sure to wow any palate.
Paying homage to Birmingham, the Magic City Mushrooms are tempura fried in pea and eggplant puree with red yuzu kosho aioli and herbs. Seafood lovers will enjoy the tuna veil, which is overlaid with ponzu, avocado mousse, smoked chili oil, embered cucumber and hearth aioli.
The Hamachi Crudo–for those with an affinity for yellowtail–will appreciate this medley of strawberry aguachile, mint, serrano and pop rocks that create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Any of Little Betty’s plethora of white wines such as the Lucien Reymond Silex Sancerre pair nicely with this seafood dish and yield a mouth-watering finish.
As the recipient of a 2024 Wine Spectator Award, Little Betty Steak Bar prides itself on its carefully curated selection of more than 100 wines. Patrons should try these pairings next time they dine-in:
Small Plates
HAND ROLLED MEATBALLS WITH PAYSAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON
heritage pork, san marzano tomato, caperberries and parm snow
Pastas
BEEF WELLINGTON RAVIOLO WITH ORIN SWIFT ABSTRACT RED BLEND
braised porterhouse, duxelle, pecorino fonduta and saba bordelaise
Entrées
ROASTED BLACK COD WITH DIATOM CHARDONNAY
hearth bok choy, coconut sap soy gastrique, yuzu-ginger butter sauce and cucumber sunomono
Growing up in Georgia, Jamey says everyone in his community knew of a blue heeler named, “Little Betty.” Affectionate and loyal, Little Betty’s moniker now lives on years later in the face of one of Mountain Brook’s newest steakhouses. Jamey says his four-legged, furry friend inspired the name of the restaurant–now the epitome of customer service–because customer loyalty is the foundation of his business.
The pastas, however, remain customers’ favorites on the menu. The Cacio E Pepe Gnudi combines ricotta, crispy garlic, cured egg yolk and chives, making it a delectably creamy dish.
The Hand-Cut Pappardelle, too, is a desirable entrée, blending white bolognese, sausage, wild mushroom, truffle cream and grana together in a rich, velvety fusion.
“My favorite menu item right now is the Pasta All’Amatriciana,” Kyle says. “I would pair it with the Iron and Sand Cabernet. It’s a classic, Roman pasta dish with cured pork guanciale and braised pork shoulder cooked in a spicy tomato sauce and topped with pecorino toscano. It’s spicy, savory and rich. We finish it with butter and plenty of that salty pecorino cheese.”
While Little Betty fuses both Italian and Japanesestyle cooking, one of its more American dishes is actually ranked high on the list–and it is one the kids will love, too. The Niman Ranch Smashburger features double patties, new school American, dill pickles, bacon jam, au poivre aioli, arugula and french fries.
Pairing nicely with a glass of Domaine Le Bihan Touraine Sauvignon Blanc, the Springer Mountain Half Chicken is another picky-eater favorite, and it is an assortment of Calabrian chili, cherry, sesame, cilantro and miso cashew delicately fashioned over a bed of grilled chicken. Those dining in pairs must try the whipped potatoes or the brussels sprouts calabrese–either is a fine choice to share.
At the more lavish end of the menu are the steak selections with the beast–the 36-ounce, dry-aged tomahawk–ranking the highest as a hearty option with a savory, juicy taste worthy of every dollar spent. Pair this cuisine with any of Little Betty’s reds such as a bottle of Frescobaldi Castelgiocondo Brunello Di Montalcino (2017) for a true, Tuscaninspired full course.
“People come in for the food, but they come back for the service,” Jamey says. “If you create a beautiful space and you serve incredible food and you do it with people who really care, you will have business forever.”
The staff at Little Betty is committed to levelingup their standard for the customer experience. Both newcomers and regulars alike are delighted by the staff’s tender salutations as they stroll through the front doors.
“We have some of the best staff members and clientele I have ever worked with,” says Shadi Issa, managing partner at Revival Restaurant Group.
The servers know every regular by name–and work to remember their newcomers’ names for their second visit. The staff–always dressed with a smile–are knowledgeable of the menu’s plethora of wines and full-course meals, but what distinguishes them all is their kindness and warm affection towards their patrons.
“If you take care of your people, they will take care of your customers,” Jamey says. “You have to have people in your organization that you can trust.”
Jamey credits Kyle, Shadi and the entire staff at Little Betty for creating the culture for which customers are immersed, enticing them to dine again and again.
Between the refined, laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff and dynamite cuisine, Little Betty remains second-to-none in Mountain Brook and beyond.
Little Betty Steak Bar is located at 321 Rele Street. It is open Sunday-Thursday from 5-10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 4-11 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, visit littlebettysteakbar.com.
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Manager of Santos Coffee in Mountain Brook
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Created in 2019 by sisters Wendy Padilla-Madden and Katie Ellis, Santos Coffee Farmers is based in Western Guatemala. The company grows and imports coffee to its now seven locations across Alabama, including two Birmingham-based cafes, as well as sites in Gardendale, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Hoover and Vestavia Hills. Katie manages operations in Guatemala, while Wendy oversees the retail side of the business in the U.S. Here, general manager Jose Arizpe details his favorite aspects of the coffee business.
What is your background in the hospitality industry, and how did you start working as operations manager of Santos Coffee in Mountain Brook?
I sadly did not have much background in the hospitality industry. I just remember helping my grandmother with a house of kids in Guatemala. I grew up knowing how good it felt to help others in need. It fueled my servant’s heart. Going into the hospitality industry was a natural transition for me.
How does the atmosphere at Santos Coffee’s Mountain Brook location elevate the dining experience for customers?
Our Mountain Brook location is our “grano de oro” location, which means “grain of gold.” Our baristas are focused on our lattes’ perfection and giving our customers a great cup of coffee at any time.
What is your favorite menu item and why?
Out of all of our drinks, you can never go wrong with a Cafe Nutella. It brings one of
the best chocolate flavors to our amazing lattes and gives it a small twist with our Nutella recipe. We like to play with our drinks a lot, and I personally make my drink too sweet, or that’s what my team likes to say. We are always making new inventions. At our Mountain Brook location, that’s where our team really shines. Apart from the Cafe Nutella, my second favorite drink must be our Cafe Maya. It always starts with some chocolate for me, but we give it a twist with our house-made maya mix. It mixes the sweetness of chocolate with the rich flavor profiles for a spicy kick down the back of the throat.
What food and drink pairing on the menu would you recommend to newcomers?
Our Chicken Verona has a nice, strong flavor. Pairing it with our Basil Lavender Latte enhances the flavor, making it even better. It is a great drink-and-meal combination. This recommendation together is my favorite. There are a plethora of options my team recommends. Another is our matcha brought from Japan. It is
another substitution with the Chicken Verona that has earthy flavors. It’s amazing.
What is the best part of your job, working at Santos Coffee?
The best part about my job is having a new story every day that I can talk to my friends and family about. Walking in, meeting new people and learning to make a drink to the customer’s liking is both a trial and a joy. Every time I hear that I made someone’s favorite drink even better, that makes my day even better. Our team is always there to have a conversation with anyone and deliver the best coffee we can. Inventing new drinks between us is always fun and a challenge, and we invite anyone to come in and do the same with us! Having new drinks to make is one of our favorite things to do.
Santos Coffee is located at 2738 Cahaba Road, Suite A in Mountain Brook Village. It is open Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit linktr. ee/santoscoffee to learn more information.
2837 CAHABA RD • MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL 35223
DAVENPORTSPIZZA.COM • 205-879-8603
700 MONTGOMERY HWY UNIT 193 • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35216
DAVENPORTSPIZZA.COM • 205-407-4747
Davenport’s Pizza Palace Visit us in the Vestavia City Center or at our original Mountain Brook location for award-winning pizza, a fresh garden salad and the coldest beer in town! Our dough and sauce are made-from-scratch, using the same family recipes for 60 years. Our party room is available for birthday parties, family celebrations, sports team events and more. Our Vestavia location features a bar (try our cocktails), TVs to watch your favorite sports and outdoor seating! We are proud to be family-owned and operated since 1964.
321 RELE ST • MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL 35223
LITTLEBETTYSTEAKBAR.COM • 205-834-8674
Little Betty Steak Bar
Little Betty is an elegant steakhouse with a lively, inviting environment built to make you feel at home. Chef Kyle’s thoughtfully curated work explores influences from Italian and Japanese cuisine flavors, making Little Betty a Lane Parke neighborhood favorite. We emphasize service, freshness, unexpected flavors and the most exciting proteins—Little Betty keeps cooking honest and clean. Join us for exceptional service, flavors and a heartfelt dining experience.
2715 CAHABA RD • MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL 35223
BHAMCREAMERIES.COM • 205-870-0092
936 OXMOOR ROAD • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209
BHAMCREAMERIES.COM • 205-874-1999
Mountain Brook/Edgewood Creamery
We offer two great locations both serving frozen delights seven days a week to satisfy your sweet cravings! Drop by anytime for a scoop (or two) of your favorite ice cream. Whether you prefer a cone, cup or a couple of bananas, we’re here to serve you. If you’d rather use a straw than a spoon, don’t worry, we have shakes, too. Planning a party? Call ahead for a delectable ice cream cake decorated with your specifications.
1831 28TH AVE S, 175 N • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 SOCIALTACO.BAR • 205-922-0551
Social Taco Unwind with us at Social Taco, where our intimate wine bar and neighborhood kitchen collides. Enjoy a seasonal menu focused on flavors rooted in Southern tradition. With our friendly staff and relaxed vibes, this is sure to be your go-to spot in the heart of Homewood.
‘TIS
The Samford University Legacy League’s Christmas Home Tour features homes rich in beauty and blessings.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
The entryway’s old-English-style aesthetic is complemented by its parquet flooring and accented wainscoting. A hidden gem, the storage closets are tucked away in the wall’s wood paneling.
The living room houses the Thomsons’ childrens’ portraits.
BBrookwood Forest is rich in architectural marvels, reminiscent of sophisticated, traditional design.
Tommy and Kathy Thomson’s stately home was first built in 1959 by Victor Hansen, formerly the publisher of The Birmingham News.
The home’s alluring beauty first infatuated Kathy as she would pass it by, riding to and from Mountain Brook High School. After growing up and getting married, she and Tommy settled in Mountain Brook, but not before Kathy put a letter in the home’s mailbox, asking if the homeowners would like to sell.
That was 20 years ago. The homeowners at the time, the Morgan family, were not selling, but thanked Kathy anyway.
Five years passed, and Kathy, polite but persistent, put another letter in the Morgans’ mailbox, simply “following up.” As fate would have it six years from that second letter, Mrs. Morgan phoned Kathy up and said her family was finally moving.
Tommy and Kathy immediately bought the beautiful home in late 2013 just before the Christmas season. Partnering with Cris Francisco, Robin Donahue, Donna Frazier and Katrina Porter, the
Thomsons refinished the floors and updated the kitchen and bathrooms, careful to preserve many of the architectural elements in the home’s design.
In 2023, the Samford University Legacy League approached Kathy about featuring her home on its annual Christmas Home Tour, whose proceeds benefit students with significant financial needs.
The Legacy League awards deserving students, who may be otherwise unable to pursue higher education, with life-changing scholarships, enabling them to attend Samford and work towards their collegiate dreams.
The Legacy League’s annual home tour annually attracts more than 800 guests. Cumulatively, the event has raised more than $425,000 for scholarships. Being a part of such a monumental impact in students’ lives is fitting, Kathy says, considering she was blessed with the opportunity to purchase her dream home after decades of admiring it.
Looking forward, Tommy and Kathy hope their home will continue to be a blessing for all who enter. After all, blessings run abundant when one opens her doors to those in need.
Katrina Porter helped remodel the Thomsons’ kitchen, utilizing an earth-toned color palette for the open concept’s color scheme. This dining nook is adjacent to the kitchen and provides a bit of respite on busy mornings.
CONTRACTOR: Cris Francisco
INTERIOR DESIGNERS: Robin Donahue, Donna Frazier and Katrina Porter
INTERIOR DECORATOR: Lisa Davis
This gorgeous, mahogany dining room suite was gifted to Kathy by her mother. The wallpaper was picked out by Donna Frazier and incorporated into the room’s design ahead of the Christmas Home Tour. Lisa Davis poured her time and talents into decorating the Thomson home for the Christmas season.
This room’s sandstone fireplace was incorporated into the home’s renovations as a central focal point for this space.
The house’s original build incorporated his & hers bedrooms and bathrooms across the hall from each other. Pictured is one of the remodeled bedrooms whose portraits of hydrangeas add the perfect pop of blue to the home.
The annual Christmas Home Tour will take place on Thursday, Dec. 12 with viewings from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Those interested in learning more information or purchasing tickets may visit samford.edu/legacyleague.
This guest house provides an entertainment suite, bedroom and bathroom for guests. Kathy sourced the dragonfly wallpaper from Highlands Decorating Center after having first fallen in love with the design in England. This brick-laid path connects the kitchen nook to the carriage house.
REMEMBERING A HEALTHCARE HERO: FRIENDS, PATIENTS AND CO-WORKERS REFLECT ON THE LEGACY OF DR. MACK BARNES.
BY CARMEN BROWN | PHOTOS BY LLOYD BEARD & CONTRIBUTED
Jatonia Dial clearly remembers the first time she met Mack Barnes.
She had awakened in the morning after a surgery for what she thought were just fibroids. Then, at her bedside, she saw who she described as a “nice, handsome man with a cool swag about him.”
“He told me he was a GYN oncologist, and I said, ‘Oncologist—does that mean it’s cancer? And he said, ‘It is,’” Jatonia says.
Mack proceeded to tell her that she had a cancerous tumor on her left ovary. Then he paused, and she paused, as a couple of tears rolled down her cheeks.
“He gave you that pause moment,” Jatonia says. “He had a nice, calm voice. I always felt comfortable with him. He gave me that attention that I needed.”
Stories like hers abound in praise for Mack, who passed away after an extended illness at the age of 60 on June 24, 2023. Known as a “pioneer” in the field of gynecologic oncology, Mack left a void that continues to be felt by hundreds—patients, family, friends and co-workers—who will always remember him as an exceptional physician with one-of-a-kind compassion.
Jatonia says other cancer patients she has met feel the same way she does about him; he made all of them feel special, caring for them as people and encouraging them even in the darkest times in their journeys.
Jatonia first received her diagnosis of ovarian cancer, which has an average survival rate of five years, in 2013. Her last surgery with Mack was in 2020, and she is still taking chemotherapy.
“He called me his miracle patient,” she says. “We talked about faith, and he asked me where I got my strength from. I told him I pray for myself, but I pray for him as well.”
Mack was known for calling every patient the night before surgery to answer any questions and offer personal support, and Jatonia says that was one of the qualities about him she loved most.
“I never panicked or questioned anything when I went under the knife with him,” she says.
Monjri Shah first met Mack in 2010, when she interviewed with him for a fellowship at UAB where
“He was genuine; a godsend,” Jatonia says. “I talked about him so much to my sister that when she had to have a procedure done, her doctor referred her to him.”
he was practicing at the time.
“I had been living in Manhattan, and one of the first things he told me is that Birmingham is different from New York, and it might take time to adjust to a different culture,” Monjri says. “He was a mentor from the start.”
After her fellowship, in 2014, Monjri joined Mack at Alabama Oncology Group, where he had started his private practice three years earlier.
“It was basically just him and me for nine years,” Monjri says. “Once I was out of training, he showed me how to be an oncologist, how to talk to patients, how to be efficient. All the things that make you an oncologist, I learned from him.”
Mack himself learned about patient care from his father, Mack Barnes II, a neurosurgeon in Memphis.
In a profile story published a few years ago on birminghammedicalnews.com, Mack described how he would often go on rounds with his father on the weekends and shadow him during summers.
Mack graduated from Wake Forest University in 1985. Inspired by his father, he went on to earn his medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1991.
After completing his residency in OBGYN at Northwestern University, he relocated to Birmingham after receiving a fellowship in gynecologic oncology at UAB. In the article, Mack
“ It’s a safe place, where patients can feel sad if they’re sad, ask questions if they have questions. It’s also a safe place for medical personnel, who get to
see their patients have fun and enjoy life. He was there for everything. Even if it was a Sunday, he
always made sure he came and was there to hug their necks.
”
– Jennifer Smiley
reflected on the “caring approach” for which he was known: “I love what I do; it’s a blessing to go to work every day…I view what I do as a service to the patient, and I hope the joy I get out of it is transmitted to them.”
Mack devoted much of his career to research that revolutionized the field of gynecology, and he was a huge advocate of spreading awareness about the importance of early detection. When he wasn’t spending time with his family—his wife, Nicky; sons Mack IV, Cooper, Camden and Elijah—Mack was heavily involved with the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation (LCBF).
Located in Hoover, the LCBF was established in honor of Laura, who lost her battle with ovarian cancer at the young age of 25 in 2009. Now celebrating its 15th anniversary, the LCBF works to fund research as well as provide emotional and financial assistance to women with ovarian cancer and other GYN cancers.
Every year, he attended the Head Over Teal 5K/10K and the Taste of Teal Gala fundraisers and even received the first Healthcare Hero Legacy of Laura Award for his outstanding work with the GYN cancer community.
Jennifer Smiley, who serves on the advisory board for LCBF, says her mother, aunt and stepmother were all patients of Mack’s. She says he
was very involved with patient support through the CanSurvive Cancer Community, which began in 2006 and merged with the LCBF in 2015.
“It’s a safe place, where patients can feel sad if they’re sad, ask questions if they have questions,” Jennifer says. “It’s also a safe place for medical personnel, who get to see their patients have fun and enjoy life. He was there for everything. Even if it was a Sunday, he always made sure he came and was there to hug their necks.”
Jennifer says a remembrance celebration was held about a month after Mack’s funeral service. Approximately 40 people attended, including current patients, former patients or surviving family members, co-workers and LCBF staff and board members.
“Everyone went around the room and took turns sharing stories about him,” Jennifer says. “There were even patients and family members from years ago and people in the medical community he worked with in the past that all came to remember him and share what he had taught them, how he supported them or what he meant to them.”
She says Mack will be greatly missed, as he could relate to his patients, and they thought of him as a friend.
“He had a lot of knowledge and great advice to share, which I really valued,” Jennifer says. “He was a genuinely caring person who made the time and effort to establish very meaningful relationships with those around him.”
In the eyes of Jatonia, Monjri, Jennifer and countless others, Mack Barnes died a hero—a man whose legacy will forever be remembered because of his kindness and his dedication to serving others above himself.
By Christiana Roussel | Photos by Visit Tampa
When you cannot stand the gray chill of winter for another minute, it is time to book a trip to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area of Florida for a long weekend away. There are direct flights from Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport to this central-Florida coastal destination with a plethora of things to do.
Whether you’re seeking luxury, boutique charm or a beachside retreat, Tampa and St. Pete have accommodations to fit every budget and style.
The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club (St. Pete)
A historic gem located on the downtown waterfront of St. Pete, The Vinoy Renaissance offers a blend of luxury and old-world charm. Opened in 1925, this pink Mediterranean Revival-style hotel has hosted celebrities, athletes and political figures. The resort offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, a golf course and a pool that overlooks the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay. The Vinoy is just steps from St. Pete Pier, offering stunning views and access to restaurants, parks and cultural attractions.
The Tampa Edition (Tampa)
For a more modern and luxurious experi-
ence, The Tampa Edition is located in the heart of downtown Tampa. With its contemporary design and upscale amenities, it’s ideal for travelers who want to be near the vibrant dining and entertainment districts, including Water Street Tampa and Amalie Arena. The hotel’s rooftop pool and bar provide stunning views of the skyline and a chic space to relax and enjoy a cocktail after a day of exploring.
Hotel Haya (Ybor City, Tampa)
For a boutique experience rich in history, check out Hotel Haya in the heart of Ybor City. This stylish hotel blends Ybor’s historic Cuban and Spanish influences with modern design. With colorful rooms, an excellent restaurant (Flor Fina) and proximity to the lively streets of
Ybor City, it’s perfect for those wanting a more local and cultural experience.
The Don CeSar (St. Pete Beach)
Known as the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar is an iconic beachfront resort located on the shores of St. Pete Beach. Built in 1928, the hotel combines Gatsby-era glamour with modern luxury. Its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico makes it a perfect base for beach lovers who also want easy access to downtown St. Pete. The hotel features two beachfront pools, a full-service spa and multiple dining options, ensuring you’ll never want to leave this paradise. Fun fact: New York Times best-selling author Nicholas Sparks set his novel Dreamland here.
The beauty of visiting Tampa and St. Pete in the winter is that you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat and humidity. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do while you’re in town:
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian path that winds along the Hillsborough River, connecting many of Tampa’s top attractions, including the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Park and the Florida Aquarium. Local tip: Rent a bike or scooter to explore the entire Riverwalk and stop for lunch at Armature Works, a historic building-turned-trendy-food-hall with a variety of local food vendors and outdoor seating.
The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg)
Art lovers can’t miss The Dalí Museum, home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside of Spain. The museum’s striking architecture is a work of art in itself. Inside you’ll find a mix of surrealist paintings, sculptures and interactive exhibits that delve into Dalí’s life and career. The Dalí Museum is located on St. Pete’s waterfront, offering beautiful views of Tampa Bay. Local tip: Visit the museum on a Thursday evening for reduced admission prices and a chance to enjoy the museum’s outdoor gardens and waterfront views during sunset.
Artist and anthropologist Lindsey Simonds of Litore Studio calls St. Pete home and is proud to share a few of her area favorites:
• The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art: “This is such a fun, different thing you wouldn’t expect to see in St. Pete but their collection—especially the turquoise—is stunning.”
• “Our go-to date night spot is Snappers, right on St. Pete Beach, which is run by a local fisherman. We also love Oxford Exchange (in Tampa) for brunch as well as their sister restaurant in St. Pete, The Library, which is beautifully lined with walls of blue books.
Follow Lindsey Simonds on Instagram (@litorestudio).
Winter is an ideal time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, one of the city’s most popular attractions. Cooler temps make it a breeze when exploring the park’s roller coasters, live entertainment and animal exhibits. For adrenaline junkies, rides such as Tigris and SheiKra will satisfy your need for speed, while animal lovers can get up close with giraffes, zebras and exotic birds on the Serengeti Safari.
While the Gulf Coast waters may be a bit cool for swimming in the winter, St. Pete Beach is perfect for long walks along the shore, shell collecting and watching breathtaking sunsets. If you’re feeling adventurous, try renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Boca Ciega Bay. Local tip: Head to Pass-a-Grille Beach, a quieter section of St. Pete Beach, for a more laid-back atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Ybor City is Tampa’s historic district known for its Cuban, Spanish and Italian heritage. This neighborhood was once the cigar capital of the world, and today, it’s a lively hub filled with restaurants, bars and historic sites. Take a walking tour to learn about Ybor’s history, visit a local cigar shop to watch artisans hand-roll cigars or grab a coffee and a pastry from a local bakery. Local tip: Visit Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest, continuously operated restaurant (opened in 1905), for an authentic Cuban meal and its famous 1905 Salad.
The St. Pete Pier
St. Pete Pier is a revitalized 26-acre waterfront
Tampa Bay Riverwalk/ Boating
district that has become a must-visit spot for visitors. The pier features a range of activities, from shopping and dining to public art installations and interactive play areas for kids. Take a walk to the end of the pier for panoramic views of the city and the bay, or rent a kayak to explore the waters. You can even try your hand at fishing off the pier.
For sports enthusiasts, winter in Tampa Bay is the perfect time to catch a game. The Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) plays home games at Amalie Arena, offering an exciting atmo-
sphere for hockey fans. If football is more your style, catch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in action at Raymond James Stadium. Both venues are easily accessible and located near Tampa’s vibrant downtown and Channelside District.
For a peaceful retreat into nature, visit Sunken Gardens, a 100-year-old botanical garden in the heart of St. Pete. Wander through lush, tropical gardens, past waterfalls and exotic plants. This hidden gem is a tranquil escape and provides plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops.
seafood, fusion cuisine and historic dining establishments are hallmarks of the Tampa and St. Pete dining scene.
Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele is a popular restaurant that celebrates the indigenous people of Florida with a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients. The menu features dishes such as alligator hush puppies, chargrilled oysters and crab mac and cheese. The restaurant also brews its own beers, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a craft beer with your meal. Local tip: Request a table on the outdoor patio for views of the river and skyline.
This self-proclaimed neighborhood bistro and cocktail bar comes with some advice, “slow down and coast,” which is something we long to do on vacation. Here, you’ll find street corn croquetas, ahi tuna tostadas, pan-roasted scallops and their signature crying tiger ribeye.
No trip to Tampa is complete without dining at Bern’s Steak House, an iconic fine dining establishment famous for its extensive wine list and dry-aged steaks. Bern’s offers a unique experience with its wine cellar and kitchen tours, as well as a dessert room where you can enjoy decadent treats in a private booth.
For a taste of Spain, head to Ceviche in downtown St. Pete. This lively tapas bar offers a variety of small plates, from traditional Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas and tortilla Española to seafood-focused fare such as shrimp ceviche and grilled octopus. Pair your meal with one of the craft cocktails or a glass of sangria for the full experience.
For breakfast or a quick snack, locals swear by La Segunda Bakery. With four area locations, there’s no excuse for not stopping in for a classic Cuban sandwich.
Children’s Hospital Ornament
Reminiscent of the adored giraffe toy, our “Stacked with Sweetness” ornament is handmade in Europe. A percentage of the sales from this ornament will benefit Children’s of Alabama. $62. Brombergs. 2800 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.871.3276. brombergs.com
2. Recipe Hand Towels and Cutting Boards
Turn your favorite recipe card into a heartwarming gift. Perfect to preserve your grandmother’s recipes or share your new ones. Available in a flour sack towel or wooden cutting board, which create the perfect pair. Ready next business day. Towels $21. Boards $41. Fun Stuff. 3370 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills. 205.823.3688. funstuffgifts.com
3. Le Creuset Dutch Oven
These dutch ovens are the ultimate cooking pot. The cast iron core keeps the food at an even temperature for a perfect cooking experience, and the enamel coating provides a chip-resistant colorful finish. Every cook should at least have one. 5.5-quart $420. 7.5-quart $460. The Cook Store. 2841 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.879.5277. thecookstoremtnbrook.com
4. Sweet Sipper
Created by designer Stephen Brown, this handblown glass stemware and coordinating cocktail shaker from the brand, Glitterville Studios, will certainly add whimsy to any get-together. $20-$38. Crestline Pharmacy. 60 Church St, Mountain Brook. 205.871.0317. facebook.com/crestlinepharmacy
5. Barefoot Dreams Blanket and Skincare Products
Wrap yourself in the irresistible softness of Barefoot Dreams. This celebrity favorite is a conversation piece to add to any home decor. Pair with AlphaRet Body Overnight Cream or any skincare product for ultimate luxury and relaxation. Blankets $147. AlphaRet $120. La Bella Skin & Wellness. 4510 Overton Rd, Ste 110, Birmingham. 205.994.8906. labellabirmingham.com
6. Caswell-Presidential Soap Set
Caswell soaps are triple-milled and made with natural botanicals.The presidential set lets you try the favorite scents of three American presidents. George Washington: Number Six. Dwight Eisenhower: Almond. John F. Kennedy: Jockey Club. $36. Ritch’s Pharmacy. 2174 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.871.1141. ritchspharmacy.com
7. Trish McEvoy Makeup Planner
Trish’s Makeup Planner is your portable vanity, smartly engineered to house all of your beauty products. The limited-edition 2024 collection includes beauty must-haves and new products to elevate your beauty routine like never before. $697 value. $298. Village Dermatology. 2900 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.877.9773. villagedermatology.net
8. Naga Lariat Necklace
The Naga Lariat hand-crafted necklace from John Hardy is made of 14-karat yellow gold with white diamond accents. Balinese for “dragon,” Naga is a legendary symbol of love, protection and prosperity. $5,900. Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers. 330 Rele St, Mountain Brook. 205.371.7060. bartonclay.com
9. Omnilux Red Light Mask
This FDA-cleared, dermatologist-recommended red light mask smooths fine lines, wrinkles and evens out redness. The perfect boost to any skincare routine, especially alongside Botox and medical-grade treatments. $395. Gunn Dermatology. 32 Church St, Mountain Brook. 391 Rele St, Mountain Brook. 205.415.7536. gunndermatology.com
10. Sublime Karité
These products are scientifically developed with a blend of hydrating and nourishing, plant-based ingredients to transform dry or dehydrated hair. Pair the appropriate shampoo, conditioner and leave-in for shiny, soft, frizz-free and beautifully hydrated hair. $36-54. Oak Street Hair Group. 125 Oak St, Mountain Brook. 205.879.3222. oakstreethairgroup.com
11. Nectifirm® Advanced
Say goodbye to hiding behind your turtleneck this winter! Nectifirm® Advanced harnesses the power of the skin’s own microbiome with a groundbreaking formula that combats the visible signs of moderate to advanced aging on the neck and décolletage. Purchase one Nectifirm® Advanced and receive a YouthFull Lip Replenisher® free. Nectifirm® Advanced $159. YouthFull Lip Replenisher® $42 value. Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery. 2700 Hwy 280 W, Ste 300, Mountain Brook. 205.930.9595. drrousso.com
12. Ceylon Sapphire Ring
This Ceylon Sapphire Ring is composed of 2-carat sapphire, .5-carat diamond and 14-karat white gold. This is a one-of-a-kind, but there are plenty of other beautiful pieces for everyone on your list. Cummings Jewelry Design. 3166 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.298.9144. cummingsjewelrydesign.com
13. T’s Special Pepper Vinegar
Locally grown peppers from Ireland Farms along with garlic, yellow and black mustard seeds and peppercorns combine to create the perfect gift for someone who loves to cook. Use as a marinade or for turnip greens. Available through the holidays. $12. Troup’s Pizza. 3144 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.536.6860. troupspizza.com
14. Color Wow Styling Products
Color Wow is committed to using the highest quality, science-backed ingredients that exceed today’s clean beauty standards. Each product also includes at least two types of heat protection for safer styling and healthierlooking results. $24-$32. Salon Summit. 3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, Ste 101, Vestavia Hills. 205.518.0406. salon-summit.com
15. Multi Stars Fleece Robe
Discover the must-have gift of the year: Our tween-sized fuzzy robe with a fun star print. Cozy and stylish, this robe is ideal for lazy weekends and adds a pop of color to the wearer’s downtime. $58. Gigi’s. 3140 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.593.4586. gigisbham.com
16. Etta B Pottery
Etta B Pottery is carefully handmade and meticulously hand-painted in Etta, Mississippi. Many pieces and colors are available, including holiday designs. Pictured: Flutter Dish shown in a beautiful Matcha Leaf. Prices Vary. Blue Willow. 3930 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills. 205.968.0909. thebluewillow.com
17. Enchanted Three-Drawer Musical Jewelry Box
Gift a cherished keepsake with this timeless musical jewelry box, designed to hold their most special treasures. With its sweet melody and charming details, it brings magic and joy to every moment. $39. The Lili Pad. 3138 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.298.1811. lilipadbham.com
Who wouldn’t love cozy, stay-at-home slippers/ socks? One size fits most, and Fuzzy Footies with slip-resistant soles are a great way to check off your gift list with a “little something.” $12.99. Flip-Flops & What Nots. 4137 White Oak Dr, Vestavia Hills. 205.967.7429. flipflopsandwhatnots.com
19. Fendi Red Zucca Mini Tote
This is one of the many fabulous designer handbags you can find in store everyday! Stop in and see the selection. $400 (Retail $995). Second Hand Rose. 4200 Oakview Ln, Vestavia Hills. 205.970.7997. secondhandroseal.com
20. Custom Sweatshirt
This custom, embroidered Birmingham sweatshirt is a store favorite and will make the perfect gift this holiday season. $58. The Blended Bungalow. 1925 29th Ave S, Homewood. 432.816.8855. blendedbungalow.myshopify.com
21. Nest Candles
Mantooth Interiors is your home for all Nest collections and fragrances. Our large selection of holiday scents makes the perfect gift for friends and family. $49. Mantooth Interiors. 2813 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.5474. mantoothinteriors.com
22. Sketch Pals
Kids can doodle with anything, including the attached stylus or even their fingernail. $23. Homewood Toy and Hobby. 2830 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.3986. homewoodtoy-hobby. com
23. Men’s Tote and Toiletry Bag
Wasatch Duffel is the canvas weekender you’ve been looking for. Built with a heavy duty, 18-ounce waxed canvas and full-grain leather, this bag will take anything you throw at it. Check out this modern take on dad’s old toiletry bag with the same classic styling. Perfect duffel/luggage flight companion that will last a lifetime. Tote $295. Toiletry $97. Siebels Cottage. 2927 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.3558. seibelscottage.com
24. Cookies
For one cookie or hundreds, Cookie Fix will sweeten your holidays with special holiday flavors and traditional favorites. Cookies from $2.75. Cookie Fix. Locations in Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Greystone, Homewood and Huntsville. cookiefix.com
25. Birthstone Fashion Ring
This gorgeous piece is a 14-karat yellow gold birthstone fashion ring with one pearshaped bezel set blue topaz and one round bezel set full-cut diamond. Sizing is free of charge. Stop by to see other birthstone options. $600. Southeastern Jewelers. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Ste 111, Birmingham. 205.980.9030. southeasternjewelers.net
26. Coffee Mug
This Kellie Montana custom coffee mug with a carrying bag is the perfect gift this holiday season. $21. Sweet Peas Garden Shop. 2829 Linden Ave, Homewood. 205.879.3839. sweetpeasgardenshop.com
27. Wooden Nutcracker
These collegiate wooden nutcrackers make great gifts for football fanatics. $34.99. Home Accents. 2750 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham. 205.621.2039. homeaccentsonline.com
28. Oliver Thomas
This perfect, lightweight rolling duffel has everything to keep you organized, moving and hands-free to help you get that cocktail in hand and feet in the sand. $175. Shoefly. 2823 18th St S, Homewood. 205.870.7131.
29. Orbix Hot Glass
The versatile sprinkle bowl is hand-blown by Orbix Hot Glass. Orbix is an award-winning glass company in River Canyon National Preserve. In-store only at our stores in Homewood and Hoover. $44.99. Alabama Goods. 2933 18th St S, Homewood. 5225 Peridot Pl, Ste 109, Hoover. 205.803.3900. alabamagoods.com
30. Evening Bag
An evening bag makes for a wonderful gift option and is perfect to use for those upcoming holiday parties. $55. At Home Furnishings. 2921 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.3510. shopathomefurnishings.com
31. Children’s Book and Doll
Get to know Dorkle, a sweet and special little girl who is learning to love herself, quirks and all! She represents children who sometimes need a little “extra nudge” of encouragement and want to feel included. This is a fun and meaningful story, and you’ll enjoy finding out what happens on Dorkle’s Day at School. Sherri Springer Art. sherrispringerart.com
32. Necklace and Earrings
This gorgeous statement necklace and earrings are made of 14-karat gold and will be a sentimental gift for your special someone. Earrings $3,095. Necklace $4,450. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles. 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood. 205.874.1044. wallaceburke.com
33. Raggio MD Antioxidant Serum 20-Percent Vitamin C + E Complex
The “non-negotiable” regarding advanced skincare, featuring a potent, 20-percent Vitamin C antioxidant complex, this serum brightens your complexion, reduces wrinkles and supports your skin’s overall vibrancy—a patient favorite in the Raggio MD Skincare portfolio. $152. Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery. 1920 Huntington Rd, Homewood. 659.272.0092. raggiomd.com
34. Edgar’s Holiday Gift Basket
Edgar’s holiday gift baskets are a “sweet” option for your loved ones this season. $20-$145. Edgar’s Bakery. Locations in Pelham, Birmingham, Hoover, Trussville, Huntsville and Tuscaloosa. edgarsbakery.com.
35. Zents Exfoliation Duo
Discover spa-worthy skin with this at-home exfoliation duo. To polish like the pros, spritz a thick layer of body oil on dry skin and massage a generous amount of polish all over the body in an upward, circular motion. Rinse in the shower to reveal baby soft, glowing skin. $89. Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. 4000 Grand Ave, Hoover. 205.949.3041. rtjspatrail.com/spa/ the-spa-at-ross-bridge
36. Locally-Made Birdhouses
These locally-crafted wooden birdhouses, inspired by charming churches and gingerbread houses, make the perfect gift for nature lovers. Handcrafted with care, they add a decorative touch to any garden while providing a cozy home for birds. $79.99. Cedar Creek Nursery. 2979 Hwy 119, Montevallo. 205.665.5237. cedarcreeknursery.com
37. Home Decor
Unique home decor pieces perfect for any style, including coffee-themed accents, farmhouse charm and religiousinspired designs. Thoughtfully curated, these items make wonderful gifts that add personality and warmth to any living space. Prices Vary. Montevallo Drug. 3990 Hwy 25, Montevallo. 205.665.1261. montevallo-drug.com
38. Craftsman Ratchet Sets
The Craftsman ratchet set is a perfect gift for DIY-enthusiasts and professionals alike. With durable, high-quality tools, this set offers versatility and precision for any project, making it a must-have for every toolbox. $28.99. ACE Hardware. 4004 Hwy 25, Montevallo. 205.917.9576. acehardware.com
39. Holiday Wreaths
Add a personal touch to your holiday decor with a custom wreath. Handcrafted with care, each wreath is designed to reflect your style, featuring greenery, festive accents and unique details perfect for celebrating the season. Prices Vary. The Flower Shop. 981 Island St, Montevallo. 205.665.1232. theflowershopmontevallo.com
40. One-of-a-Kind Fine Art
Shop a stunning selection of handmade ceramics, pottery, woodworking, paintings, photography, jewelry and more. Each piece is crafted by talented artisans, making it the perfect place to find unique, meaningful gifts for any occasion. Prices Vary. Blue Phrog Gallery. 955 Main St, Montevallo. 205.665.3766. bluephroggallery.com
41. Vintage Jewelry and Accessories
A stunning selection of vintage, fine and custom jewelry and unique accessories. Enjoy free gift wrapping, and take advantage of Wendy’s expert consulting services to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list. Prices Vary. The Jewelry Lady. 619 Main St, Montevallo.
42. Coffee, Wine and More
Surprise someone special with premium wine, locallyroasted June Coffee, Medders Family Farm Peanut Butter, Lemon Moon Tea or Meri Moon merchandise. Can’t decide? Gift cards are available as well. Prices Vary. Meri Moon. 618 Main St, Montevallo. 205.476.8052. Follow us on Facebook.
43. Holiday Desserts
Wow the guests at your gatherings with pound cake, cupcakes or classic cake flavors. Custom desserts will be the star of every holiday party. Prices Vary. Creations Galore and Moore. 8261 Hwy 31, Calera. 205.690.8399. creationsgaloreandmoore.com
44. Games and Gaming Accessories
Your quest awaits at ROE Hobby. From card and family games to tabletop adventures, figurines and gaming accessories, there’s something for every fan. Grab a snack and drink from the bar, and host your tabletop games in our rentable rooms. Prices Vary. ROE Hobby. 10870 Hwy 25, Calera. 205.319.7310. facebook.com/ ROEHobby
45. Locally-Roasted Coffees
Explore our locally-roasted coffee, featuring both whole beans and K-Cup pods. With a variety of rich and flavorful blends, you’ll find the perfect choice for any coffee enthusiast, no matter how they brew. $14.99. Adventurer’s Coffee Co. 10874 Hwy 25, Calera. 205.690.8945. adventurerscoffee.co
46. Northwest Naturals Functional Toppers Pet Food Topping
These meal toppers add flavor, fun and nutrition to your pet’s diet. Sprinkle or spoon it over kibble or canned food to add extra flavor that dogs and cats love! Suitable for all sizes and breeds. $11.99-$18.99. Fuzzy Buttz Pet Supply. 8274 Hwy 31, Calera. 205.690.8332. fuzzybuttzpetsupply.com
47. Gym Membership Pass
Give the gift of fitness with a one-month membership to The Garage. Perfect for all skill levels, this membership includes classes that improve strength, endurance and confidence while offering a fun and empowering workout experience. $79.99-$89.99. The Garage Kickboxing. 10864 Hwy 25, Calera. 205.690.8087. garagekickboxing.com
48. Soaps and Skincare Products
Delightfully-scented, plant-based soaps and skincare products that are handmade daily in our local shops/ makeries make wonderful gifts! Our artisan soap bars, bath bombs, shower oils, body butters, body scrubs, laundry soaps, scent boosters and home fragrances all smell wonderful! $3-$59. Buff City Soap. Multiple locations. See ad for details. buffcitysoap.com
49. Stressless Recliner
Indulge yourself or someone else this holiday season with a Stressless Recliner. These unique recliners provide a sleek design and a comfort level that is unmatched. Recliners are available in a variety of sizes, colors and designs. $3,395. Scandinavian Design Gallery. 3075 John Hawkins Pkwy, Hoover. 205.985.4507. scandesigngallery.com
50. enewton Bracelets
This gold-filled jewelry is “worry-free wear,” which means you can sweat, shower and sleep in it. We have lots of options to choose from such as gold, silver and different color options. Visit us in store and online to find the best holiday gifting selection. $16-$125. Wrapsody. Locations in Hoover, Homewood, Trussville, Auburn and Madison. 205.989.7277. shopwrapsody.com
Basecoat at Lane Parke
Alabama Dermatology & Rejuvenation Center
Exec Hub
Concierge Speech Birmingham
Surf Hound
RJ Young
J Crew Factory at Cahaba Village
French Door Antiques
Sleep Dreams
Next Level AVL
The Station at Crestline Heights
The Scout Guide Birmingham
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Alabama Risk Solutions
Chamber
Our quarterly luncheon was our biggest one yet! The Birmingham Culinary Forum, presented by Alabama Appliance, had an outstanding panel discussion and engaged crowd. Our panelists spoke on today’s culinary industry challenges, gave heartwarming stories from their journeys to success and shared their belief in the future of Birmingham’s foodie reputation that is known nationwide.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
On Tuesday, Aug. 13, Mountain Brook Schools’ students returned to the classroom for the 2024-25 school year.
1. Sarah Malone, Lily Close, Madeline Plowden, Julia Graves and Carrie Busby
2. Evie Kate Good
3. Ebbie Bankhead and Payton Bates
4. Greer Gaston
5. Mary Kate Nesmith, Caroline Harrison and Maclaine Montgomery
6. Ada Bennett and Margaret Sutlive
7. Katie Grace Montgomery
8. Harper Coleman and Arthur Jones
9. Peter Lynch and Henderson Barnett
10. Lillie Pendleton
11. Francis Peer, Mimi Rutledge and Mae Mobley
12. Linda Spann, Robin Coleman and Yolanda Lewis
13. Josh Rector
SCHAFER
On Friday, Aug. 16 at Mountain Brook High School’s Spartan Stadium, the junior high and high school football teams played several scrimmage games, inviting the public to get a first glance at the players and their athletic abilities prior to the upcoming football season.
1. Anne, Maggie and Kate
2. Ava Young and Grace Bearden
3. Brooke and Lilli
4. The Hey family
5. Kate Mather and Mary Katherine Pritchett
6. Katherine and Chad Kelley
7. Alden, Elle, Ruthie and Mary Clark
On Wednesday, Aug. 21 at the Country Club of Birmingham, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce hosted Birmingham restaurateurs Frank Stitt, Chris Hastings, Jorge Castro and Stacey Craig for a culinary forum.
1. Megan Thomas, Knox Richardson and Dawson Horton
2. Katrina Porter and Lizzie Maymon
3. Tonya Jones, Ally Cooper, Carrie Lewis, Heidi Smith, Melissa Skaggs and Jessica Shawler
4. Shelby Weir and Laudan Khalid
5. Aimee and Jorge Castro
6. Helen Cocoris, Pete Graphos, Joanna Hufham, Nicky Koikos, Stacey Craig and David Hufham
7. Matt Register and Adam Carroll
8. Jana Forbes, Heather Lucas, Bree Dunn, Steven Boone, Heather Richards and Glen Merchant
9. Jarrod Edwards, Kim McGuire and Ashley Fuqua Parker
10. Lynn Andrews and Elizabeth Bullock
11. Sarah Robinson, Ashley Gootee and Kali McNutt
BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER
On Saturday, Aug. 24, the Mountain Brook Police Department escorted Lulu Gribbin and her family home after Lulu’s long recovery battle from her shark attack earlier this summer. Smiling victoriously, Lulu looked radiant as she was escorted throughout Mountain Brook with cheering patrons lining the sidewalks, welcoming her home.
3. Anne Paterson, Ellie Brower and Oliver Booth
4. Kennedy Romeo, Sophia Speights and Elene Graves
5. Crestview Circle Fan Club
6. The Hamer family 7. Parade photo
8. Bailey Simpson and Savi Jordan
9. The Samford family
10. Olivia Worthen, Laura Woodry, Addison Hardee, Caroline Harrison and Georgia Jayne Stuckey
11. Mountain Brook High School Students
12. Lulu Gribbin
BY KELSEA SCHAFER
On Friday, Aug. 30 at Spartan Stadium, the Spartans faced off against the Bisons, coming up short at 30-16.
1. Carolyn James, Sarah Kathryn Dutton and Ella Tartar
2. Max, Finn, Blake, Jack and Braden
3. Lula Comer, Sarah Little and Kathryn Taylor Todd
4. Millie, Sarah Wels and Darby
5. Onna and Soren Cunningham
6. Stephanie Pain and Stacy Freeman
7. Charlotte, Lucy and Olivia
8. Caroline and Laura
9. Lindsey and Jim Smith
10. Julia Holt
11. Josslyn and Ruthie
12. Luke and Charlotte Gannon
13. Alina and Nakita
14. Patra and Langley Trammell
15. Hayden, Miller and Eva
PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
On Wednesday, Sept. 11 in Crestline Village, the cities of Mountain Brook, Homewood and Vestavia Hills held a joint, memorial tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
1. Chris Mullins and A.C. Roper
2. Mark Shannon, Matt Hall, William Wynne and Karry Jones
3. Lizzie Maymon, Michelle Hawkins, Shelby Weir and Abigail Jackson
4. Lee Rhudy, K.C. Hairston and David Kennedy
5. Joel Gaston, Austin Fortner, Shane Ware, Roy Brook, Ashley Curry and Mike Keller
6. Jason Carmack, Jaye Loggins, Stewart Welch, Thomas Boulware and Chris Thompson
7. Jaye Loggins, K.C. Hairston and Jason Carmack
PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER
On Friday, Sept. 13 at The Birmingham Zoo, Mountain Brook patrons and others flocked to the zoo’s annual fundraiser, which featured a silent auction, live music and more.
1. Trey Harper, Mariana Burnette, Dee Carvallio and Olivia Harris
2. Cassie Bowden and David Kutcher
3. Chris and Dawn Blake
4. Victor and Cathey Crawford Gilmore
5. Shia, Gaynell and Daagye Hendricks with Catrina Jackson
6. Tabytha Morris and Ajay Kamath
7. Gabe and Julie Harris
8. Matthew and Taylor Dyer with Emily Sukhai
9. Rob and Sophie Martin
10. Suzanne and Jerry Perkins
11. Priscilla and Adam Leberte
12. Cheryl Temple, Mollye Nardi, Amy Toman and Annie Kaspar
13. Kimekia Holifield, Kelleigh Gamble and Kori Fruge
14. Paul and Amanda Hoffman with Laura and Wayne Wisdom
15. Davis Brooks and Ally Anderson
16. Malinda O’Leary and Patrick Schexnailder
17. Mindi and Kamil Falkowski
18. Susan and Charles Prueter
PHOTOS BY KELSEA
SCHAFER
On Thursday, Sept. 19, Vino celebrated its 13th anniversary with a two-legged and four-legged-friendly fundraiser benefiting the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.
1. Allison Black Cornelius, Sage and Lou Willis
2. Lynn Bridell and Buddy
3. Maddie and Beth O’Donnell with Kai
4. Forrest and Frisbee
5. Crissy and Jacob Hoelly with Moose and Blueberry
6. Ivanna Sullivan, Gold and Savannah Caswell
7. Bob Alden and Heywood
8. Kelsey Brigati and Luna
9. Lauren Marina and Clove
10. Andrew Nelson, Allison Ingram and Beau
11. Tricia Preston and Jocelyn Palmer
12. Summer Paine and Liam Agurre with Sadie and Priscilla
13. Hugo and Frances Isom with Spice
14. Matthew Rabiee and Allison Black Cornelius
15. Olivia Murray, Gold and Maddie O’Donnell
PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
On Tuesday, Oct. 1 at Mountain Brook City Hall, the Mountain Brook Police and Fire Departments hosted Community Night Out. This free event drew hundreds of attendees, who enjoyed playing in a police car, a fire truck, an excavator and more.
1. Scott Stephens and John Hodgens
2. Leland Rhudy and Stacey Cole
3. The Holt family
4. Mackenzie Lockwood, Raymond Bailey, Mike Boissel, Blake Goolsby, Cayden McCondichie, Feriram Sanchez, Tyler Furgason, Anthony Flores, Rodney Marsh and Pearce Kniep
5. The Canter family
6. Kaitlyn Holt
7. Larry Rauschnabel with the Weinbaum family
8. The Bellenger family
9. Officer Ro
10. The Glover family
11. Graham Killingsworth, Logan Weeks and Sacha Koster
12. Davis Baker, Josh Glidewell, Adam Ennis and Larry Rauschnabel
13. Chris Mullins
14. The Lovell family
15. The Owens family and Lt. Bradford
GRACE MOORE
From Thursday, Oct. 3-Sunday, Oct. 6, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens hosted its annual Antiques at the Gardens showcase, featuring vendors from across the country.
1. Mary Margaret Gunn and Katherine Thompson
2. Ambrice Miller
3. Emily Gardner and Kim Williamson
4. Annabel Hart and Rae Evelyn Gibbs
5. Laurie Ward
6. Josephine McDonough
7. Alex Cruz and Amelia Wilhite
8. Connor Blaschak and Sarah Easton
9. Erik Retzer
10. Mihnea Nastase
11. Grant O’Callaghan and Beau Matthews
12. Robin Tobey
13. Lizzie Bowman and Caley Watts
14. Tracey Smolin
15. Roger Winter
BY
ANNA GRACE MOORE
On Wednesday, Oct. 9 at the Mountain Brook Chamber, Brad Hassig led a workday wellness workshop for community members.
1. Sherri Weissman and Gina Harris
2. Liz Wiatt, Ashley Fuqua Parker and Jordan Summerford
3. Jackson King and Lizzie Maymon
4. Kiah Graves and Emily Scott
5. Lizzie Maymon, Shelby Weir, Brad Hassig and Abigail Jackson
6. Gina Harris, Katrina Porter, Sherri Weissman, Sheila Kent and Sandy Naramore
7. Katrina Porter and Brad Hassig
Automation Personnel Services Hiring
IMMEDIATELY
For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)444-9774.
Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007
Now Hiring For Utility Positions
Starting pay $15.14/hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com
BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE
• TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN!
• SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS!
• STUMP GRINDING!
• GENERAL LIABILITY
• WORKERS COMP
WWW.BRIANSTREE.COM 205-281-2427
Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services
Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbamawellness.org
Shelby County Schools
Substitute Teachers
Limitless opportunities for passionate people!
• Free pre-hire training
• Paid orientation
• Ongoing professional development
•Steady, yet flexible, work
• Weekly pay
• Your preference of schools
Contact Anne Gamble:
O: 205.682.7062
M: 205.532.1122 anne.gamble@ kellyservices.com
Marble Valley Manor.
Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500
•TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V)
•800-548-2546(T/A).
Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer
O-FLEX METAL
FINISHING Production
Supervisor
$50,000.00-$70,000.00/ year 10hr shifts Mon-Thurs Oversees production operations. Sets objectives, organizes workflow, prepares schedules, assigns responsibilities, trains employees, ensures safety, schedules maintenance, submits performance reports. Skills:-Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery
and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/match, Health/ Dental/Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement
725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044
O-FLEX METAL
FINISHING 2nd Shift
Supervisor
$50,000.00-$70,000.00 2nd shift 2:30p.m.1:00a.m.
Monday–Thursday Responsibilities:
• Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment
• Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments
• Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility.
725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044
O-FLEX METAL
FINISHING
Maintenance Technicians: Friday–Sunday 12 hour shifts 6:00a.m.6:00p.m.
Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities &
equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader.
Starting pay $19-$28 BOE
725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044
Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653
Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS!
Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!
Tax Advisor, International Tax and Transaction Tax Services (International Corporate Tax Advisory) (Senior) (Multiple Positions), Ernst & Young U.S. LLP, Birmingham, AL. Apply online, go to: ey.com/en_us/careers and click on “Careers - Job Search”, then “SearchJobs” (Job Number - 1472113).
ETS Restorations & Tree Service
“From street to walls, we do it all”
• Retaining Walls
• Concrete Work
• Demolition
• Landscaping
• Tree Removal
• Tree Trimming
• Bobcat Work
• Hardscapes
• Hauling
FREE ESTIMATES!!! CALL NOW (205)209-7787 (205)683-3257
South Pointe Development
203 Shiloh Creek Drive Calera, AL 35040
Updating Waiting List: 3 BDR 2 Bath Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30
Multi-Family No Pets Allowed 205-668-1196.
Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors
Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/ BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available. No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter. net or call 205-369-6250
Vulcan Termite and Pest Control
Wanted Maintenance/ Handyman to assist with vehicle and land upkeep. Must pass background & drug test, have reliable transportation, be able to drive a manual transmission and be willing to work.
Apply in person at 115 Commerce Drive Pelham, AL 35124
Vulcan Termite and Pest Control
LIZZIE MAYMON
Executive Director of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce
The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce
My favorite part of being the chamber director is having the chance to meet so many incredible members of the Mountain Brook community. It’s both a privilege and an honor, and I never could have imagined having such a fulfilling and significant role. It brings me great joy, and I look forward to continuing to support its growth, help it flourish and foster meaningful connections among everyone involved.
My favorite event is the holiday parade. Seeing everyone come together to make it a success is truly heartwarming. The real magic, however, is in watching the children’s faces light up when they see Santa Claus. It makes the whole event feel incredibly special and enchanting.
Jemison Park
I take great joy in walking through each village and watching our businesses thrive. I especially look forward to events like Market Day, the Crestline Tent Sale, and the Holiday Open Houses. I love seeing the community come together–talking, laughing and connecting–while celebrating the fantastic businesses in Mountain Brook. Though these events come and go each year, I always eagerly anticipate their return.
As the chamber director, picking a single favorite restaurant in Mountain Brook is nearly impossible! However, I can tell you that when my husband and I have a craving–whether it’s for guacamole, a steak, curry or a delicious sweet treat–we always find ourselves heading to Mountain Brook. Our local dining scene is so diverse and exceptional that we make it a point to stop by whenever we can.
One of my favorite places to visit in the city is Jemison Park. I cherish a special memory from when I was 8 years old, taking our corgi, Molly, there with my family. Those moments remain some of my fondest memories. I also appreciate how the city has invested in revitalizing the park–it’s wonderful to see it flourishing. These days, I often visit during my lunch break and am especially looking forward to enjoying the park even more as we head into the winter season.
