It was an adjustment
By KARIM SHAMSI-BASHA
By JON ANDERSON
Construction crews have been making steady progress this summer on several major capital projects in Vestavia Hills following previous unexpected delays, city officials said.
The U.S. 31 gateway project at Interstate 65 and the pedestrian bridge over U.S. 31 both as of mid-July were scheduled for completion in August, and the Massey Road widening project
was expected to be finished in September, City Manager Jeff Downes said.
Meanwhile, projects to add a turn lane at the intersection of Rocky Ridge Road and Dolly Ridge Road, add pool heaters at the Vestavia Hills Aquatic Complex and build a veterans memorial at Altadena Valley Park were on schedule as planned, Downes said.
Vestavia Hills prepares for the high school football season.
Meet Chloe Kidd, the new owner of the iconic seafood restaurant Ocean.
Alex Hoehle and Nicole Hoffman own and operate Steel City Chiropractic in Vestavia Hills. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley
August feels like a beginning.
The calendar says January is the new year, but for families in our community, the real reset comes when backpacks get loaded and school hallways fill back up. For some students, that means the comfort of familiar faces. For others, it means a brand-new school and all the nerves and excitement that come with it.
And then there is football. The sound of shoulder pads on a practice field means summer is winding down and those special Friday nights are almost here.
August has a way of pulling a community back together. Parents are at pickup lines and open houses. Stadiums
will start filling up soon. The rhythms that define our towns from September through May are cranking back to life.
Let us know what’s going on in your part of town. Story ideas, events, new businesses — we want to hear from you. Feel free to shoot me an email at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
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CITY
Audit: City ends fiscal 2025 in strong status
By JON ANDERSON
The city of Vestavia Hills ended fiscal 2025 in a strong financial condition, with total revenues increasing 4% from fiscal 2024 to $84.2 million and the city’s general fund balance growing 5.3% to $33.3 million, according to the 2025 audit approved by the council in July.
Sales and use taxes, the city’s largest source of revenue, totaled $31.6 million, an increase of $2.1 million or 6.9%, from 2024, the audit shows. Sales and use taxes accounted for 37.6% of all revenues received in 2025.
Sales and use tax revenues have grown 142% over the last nine years from $13.1 million in 2016 to $31.6 million in 2025. The biggest source of sales and use tax revenue was restaurants, bringing in $4.85 million in 2025 and surpassing grocery stores for the first time in at least nine years.
Grocery store sales and use tax revenues declined from $5.48 million to $4.83 million — the first decline in at least nine years. That decline was perhaps related to the closure of the Winn-Dixie in Cahaba Heights in May 2025.
City officials are eager to see the redevelopment of that site as a Walmart Neighborhood Market, which will help boost tax revenues once again. There is a Publix nearby, but it is in the city limits of Mountain Brook, and those tax revenues go to Mountain Brook.
In 2025, Vestavia Hills also received $4.56 million in sales and use taxes from retail merchandise stores, $3.24 million from home furnishings and building supply stores, $1.08 million from automotive sales and $11.19 million from a variety of other sources, the audit shows.
The largest sales tax payers, in order, were: Publix Alabama, Walmart, Royal Automotive, Mark’s Outdoors, Apple, American Multi
Cinema, Raj Ajit Hotel, Jaxnco, Walgreen and JC Hospitality.
Property taxes collected for 2025 totaled $21.4 million — an increase of 2.6% from $20.9 million in 2024 and up 67% from $12.9 million in 2016. Revenue from licenses and permits decreased in 2025 by 16.4% to $1.4 million.
The city’s total expenditures from government funds in 2025 were $88.3 million, which led to a 6% decline in the overall fund balance — or $2.8 million, ending with $43.4 million as an overall fund balance on Sept. 30, 2025.
The city’s general fund saw its revenues exceed budgeted revenues by $6.5 million or 10%, and actual expenditures exceeded the budget by $2.3 million or 4.4%. The overage resulted principally from new economic incentive programs increasing general government expenditures by $2.4 million or 24.6%. The end result was a $1.6 million increase in the general fund balance at the end of the year.
The city of Vestavia Hills had $141.5 million of long-term debt and liabilities at the end of 2025, including $80.6 million in outstanding principal owed on warrants that were borrowed for various reasons dating back to 2013.
The city’s payment plan calls for paying $7.4 million in principal and interest for each of the next three years, about $7 million per year for two years after that, and then an average of $6.3 million for five years after that. Total payments due through 2048 totaled about $109 million. However, city leaders are contemplating borrowing additional money to pay for other projects that include a new police station, maintenance facility and library/community center in Liberty Park. The city’s debt limit is $237 million, so it is well within its debt limits.
To see the full audit, go to vhal.org/ financial-statements.
The city of Vestavia Hills’ general fund balance history, fiscal years 2019 to 2025 (right) and history of sales tax receipts, fiscal years 2009 to 2025 (below). Charts
of
courtesy
city of Vestavia Hills.
CITY
Mayor’s Minute
By Ashley Curry
Our city hosted VET FEST Freedom 250 on June 30. This event was sponsored by the community affairs office of the Birmingham Veterans Administration. This group is instrumental in helping veterans access the benefits, services and support they have earned through their service in our armed forces.
There were more than 40 representatives from VA programs and community organizations on site. The attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide range of available resources all under one roof. Veterans were encouraged to visit each table, engage with experts and take advantage of the one-onone guidance available throughout the day.
VA representatives provided benefits and counseling to 128 veterans and successfully processed 31 claims during the event. Meanwhile, Birmingham VA enrolled more than 10 veterans into VA health care for the first time, helping them begin their VA care journey.
According to the VA, “The success of VET FEST Freedom 250 reinforces the power and importance of outreach. Whether a veteran enrolls in health care,
files a claim, learns about memorial benefits, or discovers a resource they didn’t know existed, every conversation at events like this has the potential to make a lasting difference.”
Thanks to all of the volunteers and organizations that made this event possible. We can never thank our veterans enough for their sacrifice.
We will be honoring our veterans again this November. Our Civic Center will be recognizing our senior citizens in the observance of National Senior Citizens Day on Friday, Aug. 21. On this day, we honor the wisdom, history and massive impact our seniors have on our families and our community. There will be a lunch and other activities for our senior residents.
To all the parents and especially the teachers out there, August is when you start counting down to the fastapproaching school year. It will be here soon. I hope everyone had a good summer vacation and is ready for the school year.
BUSINESS
Business Happenings
NOW OPEN
The Kitchen by Market opened at 1031 Montgomery Highway next to The Picklr. This is the second location for Market, a gourmet grocery store in Mountain Brook Village. The Kitchen offers a variety of grab-and-go food items, healthy meals and á la carte items. Their menu includes dishes like wraps, chicken salad, protein bars, salads and Meats by Linz. The Kitchen is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. 205-238-5020, marketonthego.com
Sequoia, a strength training gym, recently opened at 3244 Cahaba Heights Road. The gym offers one-on-one and semi-private personal training to men and women. Whether they’re looking to gain strength, lose fat or improve their overall health, members receive the type of plans and sessions that work best for their goals and schedule. Sequoia is owned and operated by Kalvin Frelich, a National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer. The strength training gym is open Monday through Thursday from 5:45 to 10:15 a.m. and 3:15 to 6:15 p.m. (by appointment only). 205-396-8844, trainsequoia.com
Ace of the Hills hardware store was slated to open July 28 at 680 Old Town Road next to Chuck E. Cheese on U.S. 31. Ace of the Hills is owned by Chris and April Edwards, who also operate Rainbow Paint and Decorating. They relocated the current products and services from Rainbow Paint and Decorating into the Ace location, which is nearly double the size of the painting and decorating store’s space. Ace of the Hills is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-822-3548, acehardware.com
Busy Brush Studio recently opened at 1425 Montgomery Highway. Owned by Tori Dill, the studio offers paintyour-own pottery where customers choose the piece and pick their brush to create a unique piece. Busy Brush Studio also offers a variety of classes including ones for couples, adult-only nights, camps for children, teachers’ night out and ones for all ages. Busy Brush Studio is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. 205-734-0099, busybrushstudio.com
COMING SOON
The owners of the Ace Hardware store in Birmingham’s Crestline Park on July 21 closed on the purchase of a lot for another location of Ace Hardware in Vestavia Hills. The Compton family, which has owned Compton Ace Hardware at 4500 Montevallo Road for 4 years and been in the convenience store business for 47 years, will put another location of the hardware store in The Bray at Liberty Park off Collier Drive. The 1-acre parcel is across from the Medical Properties Trust headquar-
ters and next to the Publix-anchored Marketplace at The Bray, said James Parsons, president of Liberty Park Joint Venture. The new store likely will be 12,000 to 15,000 square feet, which is larger than the Crestline Park store, said Cole Compton, who serves as operations manager at Crestline Park and will do the same for the Liberty Park location. The Comptons hope to be under construction by the end of this year and open for business in Liberty Park in about 12 months, President Brent Compton said.
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Burton Property Group acquired Vestavia Hills City Center at 700 Montgomery Highway for $76 million. The Mobile-based real estate investment company purchased the 390,000-square-foot mixed-use retail and commercial property, which is anchored by Publix. It’s also home to businesses including Taco Mama and Starbucks. This is the first acquisition for the group in the Birmingham-metro area, and the company plans to upgrade the facility and create long-term value. 251-341-5777, burtonpropertygroup.com
ANNIVERSARIES
On Tap Sports Café at 11967 Liberty Parkway celebrated its sixth anniversary on July 19 with $4 pints, which has become an annual tradition. On Tap is a sports bar and restaurant that’s been owned and operated by the Beegle family since 1996. With another location in Inverness, On Tap shows live sports like football, baseball, soccer, basketball and hockey — as well as shows like “The Bachelorette” for groups. They carry 84 draft beers at their Liberty Park location, along with 200 bourbons. Their menu includes dishes like loaded nachos, pretzel bites, burgers, wings, sandwiches, soups, salads and flatbreads. 205-637-6141, ontapsportscafe.com
Liberty Park Family Dentistry celebrated its eighth anniversary at 8000 Liberty Parkway, Suite 126. Dr. Andrea Nunes, DMD, specializes in providing dental care for all ages. The family practice offers services including routine cleanings, crowns, operative care and whitening. Liberty Park Family Dentistry is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-413-8116, andreanunesdmd.com
The Smocking Bird, a sewing store, celebrated its fifth year at 3118 Heights Village. Locally owned and operated since 1983, the Smocking Bird was previously located in Homewood. The store offers fabric, supplies, sewing machines, patterns, imported laces and custom children’s clothing. They also offer sewing classes for adults and children of all skill levels. 205-848-2249, thesmockingbird.com
TherapySouth is celebrating 20 years of serving communities across the South with physical therapy care.
Do you have business news to share? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/ business-happenings
What started as a single clinic in 2006 has grown to serve communities throughout Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. TherapySouth provides services including orthopedic physical therapy, hand therapy, pelvic health and wellness services. There are two locations in Vestavia: 1944 Canyon Road, Suite 100, and 3056 Healthy Way, Suite 116 (Patchwork Farms). The Canyon Road location is open Monday and Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Patchwork Farms location is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 205-822-7607 (Canyon Road), 205-783-5270 (Patchwork Farms), therapysouth.com
Toddlers Playhouse and Mobile Party Rentals celebrated its fifth anniversary at 2531 Rocky Ridge Road. They offer an open play environment for children from crawlers to 5 years old. Owner Shaun Matthews Scott has years of experience in childhood development and founded the business to provide a space for toddlers to learn, explore and have fun. They offer a mobile service to bring the soft play equipment to homes and special events, along with their Rocky Ridge location. Open play is offered Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and 3 to 5 p.m. 205-452-1664
Busy Brush Studio
The Smocking Bird
Toddlers Playhouse and Mobile Party Rentals
On Tap Sports Café
BUSINESS
Happy dogs, full calendar
By KELLI S. HEWETT
In Vestavia Hills, waiting weeks or months for a good salon appointment isn’t unusual — and dogs here are no exception, lining up months for a spot at Happy Dog Baths & Grooming at 678 Montgomery Highway in the City Center.
Two groomers are booked out months in advance. They groom about 13 dogs a day, plus bath appointments, four days a week.
“The people that groom in Vestavia go ahead and book out for the full year,” said owner Mike Mahaffey. “People like to get their dogs groomed typically every six to eight weeks, so we go ahead and make those appointments.”
Happy Dog Baths & Grooming didn’t just appear out of nowhere. It grew out of a business that was already well known to local pet owners.
“We knew that there was a need,” Mahaffey said.
Before the grooming shop, Mahaffey and his wife, veterinarian Dr. Kris Mahaffey, ran Pet Vet Animal Hospital on Kentucky Avenue for more than 20 years.
About six years ago, they sold that clinic to a corporation, which operated two additional years before closing.
A year later they opened the salon and now offer grooming, baths and special offerings such as blueberry facials for fur whitening, fluff drying grooming for coat volume, and special senior baths and massages to pamper older dogs.
“We knew we had a lot of business opportunity in Vestavia, and at the time Vestavia really didn’t have a groomer in the area,” Mahaffey said. “We saw the old Subway location and
thought that it would be a perfect opportunity for us, and that’s why we opened that facility.”
A signature feature is that dogs are all groomed in the front of the shop — always in full view.
The mix of breeds tells its own story about Vestavia Hills.
“We see a lot of doodles — Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, Labradoodles,” Mahaffey said. “We see a lot of doodles, but we see a lot of small dogs, too.”
A Crestline location of Happy Dog is equally popular.
“There’s so many amazing dogs, and the parents just truly care about their animals,” said Kristine Harrison, a longtime groomer with the company.
The Mahaffeys also run Dr. Kris’s Mobile Vet Clinic, serving Over the Mountain pet clients.
He said there is no complicated formula behind their success. It feels as straightforward as a trip to the barber.
“It’s just like getting a bad haircut,” Mahaffey said. “You get a bad haircut, you’re probably not going to go back to that person, but if you like the way it looks, you just keep coming back and back and back.”
Mahaffey said Vestavia Hills has been a strong place of support for the businesses.
“We have great clients. Period,” Mahaffey said. “We have ones that have been coming to us for years.”
For more, visit happydog205.com.
Orbe Sanchez trims the fur behind Olive’s ears during her grooming appointment at Happy Dog Baths & Grooming in Crestline Village. Staff photo.
Owners Dr. Kris and Mike Mahaffey. Photos courtesy of Happy Dog Baths & Grooming.
Happy Dog Baths & Grooming in Crestline has a three-week waiting list.
Recently sold homes in Vestavia Hills
► ADDRESS: 1559 Pumphouse Court
► BED/BATH: 5/5
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,334 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Pumphouse Village
► LIST PRICE: $899,900
► SALE PRICE: $876,000
► ADDRESS: 893 Caledonian Way
► BED/BATH: 4/3.5
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,239 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Tartan Glen
► LIST PRICE: $709,900
► SALE PRICE: $665,000
► ADDRESS: 2354 Tyrol Place
► BED/BATH: 5/3.5
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 3,551 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Vestavia Hills
► LIST PRICE: $749,900 ► SALE PRICE: $730,000
► ADDRESS: 3969 Bearden Drive
► BED/BATH: 3/2
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 1,217 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Cahaba Heights
► LIST PRICE: $410,000
► SALE PRICE: $410,000
► ADDRESS: 1020 Wickford Road
► BED/BATH: 4/3
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,451 sq. ft. ► NEIGHBORHOOD: Vestavia Hills ► LIST PRICE: $699,900 ► SALE PRICE: $690,000
► ADDRESS: 3025 Panaridge Circle
► BED/BATH: 4/2
► SQUARE FOOTAGE: 2,479 sq. ft.
► NEIGHBORHOOD: Wisteria Commons
► LIST PRICE: $355,000
► SALE PRICE: $270,000
SOURCE: GREATER ALABAMA MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE
SCHOOLHOUSE
New assistant principals ready to lead, serve, inspire in Vestavia Hills City Schools
By APRIL COFFEY
As Vestavia City Schools prepares for the 2026-27 school year, two familiar faces are stepping into new leadership roles. Michaela Spence, who has served as instructional partner, science teacher and a coach at Pizitz Middle School, will now step into the role of the school’s assistant principal. At Vestavia Hills Elementary West, longtime teacher and instructional partner Shannon Stewart has been promoted to assistant principal after nine years serving the West community.
Both educators are longtime members of the Vestavia City Schools family and have spent years building relationships with students, supporting teachers and contributing to their school communities. Their appointments reflect a shared commitment to servant leadership, collaboration and student success.
Spence, who is entering her 10th year in education, brings a wide range of experience to her new role. A graduate of Auburn University with a degree in science education, she also holds a master’s degree in science education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and an administrator certification from the University of West Alabama.
After beginning her career teaching at Auburn High School, Spence joined Pizitz Middle School in 2018, where she taught seventh and eighth grade science. In addition to teaching, she coached volleyball and girls basketball, served as co-athletic director and most recently worked as the school’s instructional partner.
Now, she said, becoming assistant principal at the school she has called home for eight years is a dream realized.
“The thing that excites me the most is I get to continue working at Pizitz,” Spence said. “It is truly a dream come true to get to move into this position and to be able to continue supporting the people that have supported me over the last few years.”
She also looks forward to learning alongside the school’s leadership team while continuing to support teachers, students and families.
“This role will allow me to move closer to families and students to be able to support them during their middle school years and to continue supporting teachers in the good work they are doing,” she said.
Spence credits the people of Vestavia City Schools for making the district feel like home. Encouraged by mentors early in her career to consider teaching in Vestavia, she said she immediately knew Pizitz was the right fit after her interview.
“My mother is a retired educator, and she is always reminding me that the place you work is as good as the people that work there,” Spence said. “Pizitz people are my people. They are family.”
She said colleagues throughout the district have mentored and shaped her into the educator she is today and that one quality stands out across Vestavia City Schools.
“The one thing I can say is true about the people that work at VHCS is they care deeply about kids and they care deeply about each other,” she said.
As she begins her new role, Spence hopes students know they have an advocate in her.
“Just like when I was in the classroom or coaching, I always wanted my students to know that I cared deeply about them as a person,” she said. “Plus, I hope they say I always loved a pep rally and a fun dress-up day!”
Stewart is beginning her 15th year in education. After starting her career in Shelby County Schools as a math interventionist and first-grade teacher at Calera Elementary School, she joined Vestavia Hills Elementary West nine years ago. She served as a classroom teacher before becoming the school’s instructional partner.
For Stewart, the opportunity to continue serving the West community is especially meaningful because it is the same school system that shaped her as a student.
“Vestavia is home,” Stewart said. “I was fortunate to grow up in Vestavia City Schools as a student, and it has been a gift to spend the past nine years serving at Vestavia Hills Elementary West. This school has shaped me not only as an educator, but as a leader and a person.”
She said relationships have always been the foundation of her work, regardless of her position.
“I’m most excited to continue building relationships with the students, staff and families at West,” Stewart said. “I believe relationships create the trust that allows people to grow, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue building on the strong foundation already in place.”
Stewart also credits the district’s culture for inspiring her throughout her career.
“There is something special about a community that believes so deeply in its schools,” she said. “The commitment to excellence is evident, but what has always stood out to me is the people.”
Looking ahead, Stewart hopes students remember not only what they learned but how they felt.
“I hope they will say they felt loved, supported and challenged,” Stewart said. “That I believed in them, celebrated their strengths and walked alongside them through challenges.”
Ultimately, she hopes her leadership helps students develop confidence, character and a belief in their ability to make a positive difference.
Both Spence and Stewart begin the school year in familiar hallways, taking on new responsibilities while continuing to serve the students, teachers and families they have worked alongside for years.
Michaela Spence is a new assistant principal at Pizitz Middle School. Photos courtesy of Vestavia Hills City Schools.
Shannon Stewart, new assistant principal at Vestavia Hills Elementary West.
SPORTS UNDER THE LIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Rebels return experience on both sides as they chase a home
By KYLE PARMLEY
Vestavia Hills High School enters Robert Evans’ fifth season as head coach coming off a program-record run, including a top-100 national ranking and a No. 2 finish in the Class 7A state rankings.
“We have a lot of program highlights now,” Evans said. “We’ve made the playoffs for the fourth year in a row after not making it for six years in a row.”
The Rebels are now in Class 6A, Region 3, after the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s split of public and private schools, and the state’s largest classification now has a realigned playoff format, with the top six teams in each of the four regions qualifying for the playoffs. Evans said that should make for a more competitive bracket across the classification. Vestavia Hills hasn’t hosted a home playoff game in 13 years, and Evans said finishing in the top four of the region to secure one is a stated goal for this season.
“Our margins are razor thin, we have to stay healthy, have good fortune and play well,” Evans said.
Evans said the coaching staff has stayed largely intact on both sides of the ball, a rarity he doesn’t take for granted, though the defense has made some schematic changes over the offseason after studying programs with different approaches.
“You get tape and you really dive into it,” Evans said. “The stuff you’re not good at, you probably need to adjust.”
Evans pointed to a plus-eight turnover margin last season, after three straight years in the negative, as a key factor behind the team’s success. He said the staff has also built its offense around a specific scoring target each week.
“We’re always going to try to be the aggressor and play a different style of football,” Evans said.
Evans called a trick play late in last year’s win over Hoover his favorite moment of the season, a reverse-field pass off a punt return that Vestavia Hills had practiced all week and executed for a touchdown in a game that carried direct playoff implications.
“It rarely works out the way you draw it up in critical, leverage moments,” Evans said. “That’ll probably be a top 10 or 15 play in the history of our school.”
Vestavia Hills opens the season at home
playoff game
against Parker on Aug. 20, then travels to Benjamin Russell the following week before region play begins Sept. 4 at Thompson. The Rebels host Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Hoover and Hewitt-Trussville and travel to Tuscaloosa County and Prattville within the region. Vestavia Hills has open dates Sept. 25 and Oct. 30.
OFFENSE
Senior Charlie Taaffe returns at quarterback after four years in the program, and Evans didn’t hold back on his admiration for the position group’s leader.
“I wouldn’t trade him for any other quarterback in our region, and that includes kids signed in the SEC,” Evans said. “He’s a leader, he’s a winner, and our offense will run through him.”
Junior Price LaMaster, who would slide back to quarterback in an emergency, is moving to safety this year, while junior Hudson Mote and sophomore Noland Williamson will compete for the backup quarterback job.
At receiver, senior Luke Stubbs and sophomore Davis Kopwe are among several contributors, with junior Grayson Harper working the
H spot after a big year cut short by injury and sophomore Braxton Hunt at the Y. Sophomore Powell Curry adds versatility after seeing time at both receiver and tight end.
Junior Noah Boylan returns at running back after starting a year ago, though Evans said the Rebels need to find more depth behind him at the position.
Up front, junior Copeland Styles, who has committed to East Mississippi Community College, and Cord Pigg, a transfer from Mars Hill who has committed to Troy, headline a line that also returns junior Jackson Deal and junior Will Gwathney as starters. Senior William Hurt will also start on the line this season.
“If we play well and get good breaks, we’re going to be hard to defend,” Evans said of the offense.
DEFENSE
Junior Nick Williams returns at middle linebacker after starting the last two seasons, giving Vestavia Hills experience at the position. Junior Daniel Richardson returns as the Rebels’ leading tackler at the Spur position, and LaMaster’s move to safety adds size and athleticism to the secondary.
Junior Haines Bridges returns on the defensive line alongside junior Morgan Butler, while junior Paxton Ussery, who committed to Jacksonville State, is working back from a significant injury suffered against Hoover.
“We need to find six to eight defensive linemen that can deal with the offensive lines we’re going to be playing against,” Evans said.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Junior Gray Prier returns as a traditional punter, while sophomore Sloan Morgan, who handled all three kicking jobs a year ago, is expected to focus on kickoffs, placekicking and as a rugby-style punter. Evans said the Rebels are still working to identify return specialists.
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Noah Boylan (2). Photos by David Leong.
Charlie Taaffe (11).
Nick Williams (5).
Wes Kelley ready to keep things going as Rebels baseball coach
By KYLE PARMLEY
Wes Kelley has been around Vestavia Hills High School baseball long enough to know what the jersey means.
He wore it as the starting shortstop and team captain on the 1997 state championship team. He has coached in the program for the better part of two decades. And when Jamie Harris stepped down after 11 seasons, Kelley was the man the program turned to next.
“I am so excited, and I’m humbled to serve in this role,” Kelley said. “This program has meant so much to me and all the other former players and coaches that have been at Vestavia.”
Kelley assumes the role with a resume that took him from Vestavia to Troy University, where he played before serving as a graduate assistant and first base coach, then to Brewbaker Tech in Montgomery as head coach, then to Bob Jones High School, then to Pelham under Jeff Mauldin, before coming back to Vestavia in 2009.
His primary goal, he said, is simple: keep the legacy alive.
“My goal is just to make sure that Coach Dunn’s legacy continues as long as we can keep it going,” Kelley said, referencing the legendary Sammy Dunn, who won nine state championships at Vestavia Hills. “It goes deeper than the baseball game. It’s the importance of doing things the right way, carrying ourselves with first-class character in everything we do.”
Kelley said the coaching staff will remain largely intact, with Ryan Halla and Kris Thomas returning alongside veteran coach Ben McCullars. There is a chance one or two additional assistants could be added at the freshman or JV level, but the core group that helped Harris win
the program’s first state title since 2000, back in 2023, will be back in place.
That 2023 championship, Kelley said, was a moment he will never forget.
“It was a culmination of all the great work that Jamie had done with the program,” he said. “It just meant so much to bring that state championship back to Vestavia.”
When Kelley was named head coach, his phone lit up with messages from former players
spanning decades — the 1970s, 1980s, 2000s and beyond. The outpouring reinforced what he already knew about what he was stepping into.
“It’s such a proud program,” he said. “I’m excited to keep it going.”
Looking ahead, Kelley said he is eager to see what a strong senior class can bring in the upcoming season. Rising seniors Charlie Taaffe, a shortstop who also starts at quarter back for the football team, and outfielder Cohen
Walker, who recently committed to UAB, headline a group Kelley described as talented and full of positive leaders.
As for the moment he hands a lineup card at home plate for the first time as Rebels head coach, Kelley said it will hit differently than any of the hundreds of games he has coached
“It’ll definitely be very humbling and excit-
Wes Kelley in 2025. He was named head coach of the Vestavia Hills High School baseball program in June 2026. Photo by David Leong.
Wes Kelley, left, with his son on Vestavia Hills High School’s trip to Arizona in spring 2026. Photo courtesy of Wes Kelley.
EVENTS
Save the Date
VESTAVIA HILLS FARMERS MARKET
► Where: Scout Square, U.S. 31 (next to Walgreens)
► When: Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
► Cost: Free to attend; vendor pricing varies.
► Details: Shop fresh and local at the Vestavia Hills Farmers Market each Wednesday in Scout Square. Browse a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally baked goods, fresh flowers, handcrafted items and specialty foods while supporting area farmers and small businesses. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for dinner, searching for a unique gift or simply enjoying a leisurely morning outdoors, the market offers a welcoming atmosphere and a great way to connect with the community throughout the summer.
► Contact: vhmc.org
AVADIAN FOUNDATION PICKLEBALL FOR A PURPOSE
► Where: The Picklr Birmingham, 1031 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills
► When: Aug. 23, check-in begins one hour before each competition.
► Cost: Registration required; entry fees vary by division.
► Details: Grab your paddle and support a great cause during the Avadian Foundation’s annual Pickleball for a Purpose tournament. Players of all skill levels are invited to compete in beginner, intermediate and open divisions while raising funds to support the foundation’s work in affordable housing, financial education, education and small business development across Alabama. Participants will enjoy a day of friendly competition, prizes and community fellowship, making this event a fun way to give back while enjoying one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports.
► More Info: avadianfoundation.org/ Pickleball-for-a-Purpose
VESTAVIA HILLS CHAMBER MONTHLY LUNCHEON
► Where: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 3775 Crosshaven Drive
► When: Aug. 11, 11:30 a.m.
► Cost: Reservations $25; late registration $30
► Details: Join the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce for its monthly luncheon featuring networking opportunities, lunch and community updates from local leaders. The event brings together business professionals, community partners and civic leaders to discuss issues and initiatives impacting Vestavia Hills.
► More Info: business.vestaviahills.org/ events
SKETCHBOOK TO ART MARKET
► Where: Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
► When: Aug. 24, 5:30 p.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: Discover how to turn your artistic talents into a creative business during Sketchbook to Art Market. This inspiring program explores the journey from creating original artwork to selling prints, handmade goods and other creative products. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an experienced maker looking to grow your business, you’ll gain practical tips and encouragement to help bring your work to a wider audience.
► More Info: vestavialibrary.org
► For more events news, connect with the Vestavia Voice online by scanning the QR code.
► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
BE BOLD WOMEN IN BUSINESS
► Where: Magnolia Room, Vestavia Hills City Center, 1090 Montgomery Highway
► When: Aug. 14
► Cost: Free for Chamber members; $10 for nonmembers
► Details: Connect with local professionals during the Vestavia Hills Chamber’s Be BOLD Women in Business event. Designed to inspire and empower women in business, the program features networking opportunities, professional development and meaningful conversations with fellow entrepreneurs, executives and community leaders. Whether you’re growing a business, advancing your career or expanding your professional network, this event offers valuable connections and fresh inspiration.
► More Info: business.vestaviahills.org/ events
PARKS & RECREATION
Weekly (Mondays): Fun & Fit, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills Civic Center.
Weekly (Mondays): Monday Night Dance, 6–9 p.m., Vestavia Hills Civic Center.
Weekly (Tuesdays & Fridays): Silver Sneakers Exercise Class, 11:15 a.m.
Weekly (Wednesdays): MahJong Open Free Play, 9 a.m. to noon, Vestavia Hills Civic Center.
Weekly (Thursdays): Cardio & Balance, 9–10 a.m., Vestavia Hills Civic Center.
Weekly (Fridays): Chair Yoga, 10:30–11:30 a.m., New Merkel House.
Aug. 10: Senior Luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Vestavia Hills Civic Center.
HUDDLE UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME
► Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1090 Montgomery Highway
► When: Aug. 16, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
► Cost: Tickets $10 if purchased in advance; $15 at the door.
► Details: Join Down Syndrome Alabama for HUDDLE UP, a community event celebrating individuals with Down syndrome while raising awareness and support for local programs and services. Families, friends and supporters are invited to gather for a day focused on inclusion, encouragement and community while helping further the organization’s mission throughout Alabama.
► More Info: business.vestaviahills.org/ events
GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
Aug. 3: Vestavia Hills City Council work session 4:30 p.m.; action meeting 5:30 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Aug. 6: Vestavia Hills Design Review Board meeting, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Aug. 13: Vestavia Hills Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Aug. 17: Vestavia Hills City Council meeting, 5:30 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Aug. 18: Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Board meeting, 7:30 a.m., Vestavia Hills Civic Center
Aug. 20: Vestavia Hills Board of Zoning Adjustment meeting, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Aug. 31: Vestavia Hills Board of Education budget hearing and meeting, 4 p.m., Vestavia Hills Board of Education central office
LIFE
Former bartender bets her future on buying classic restaurant
By KELLI S. HEWETT
Earlier this year, 24-year-old bartender Chloe Kidd was slinging drinks at an Auburn college bar. Today, she’s the owner and operator of Ocean, one of Birmingham’s longstanding seafood icons — and almost no one saw it coming.
“I didn’t tell anybody,” said Kidd, a 2019 graduate of Hewitt-Trussville High School and resident of Cahaba Heights. “Everyone’s like, ‘Huh? You did what?’”
Instead, she did what she’s been doing since childhood: set a goal, worked the problem, did the homework. Then, she used a nest egg and bet on herself — no partners, no backers, no inner restaurant circle.
“I stick out in this industry, in this city, like a sore thumb,” Kidd said of the male-dominated profession. “I just find my own way to make things happen.”
She fuels herself on ADHD stubbornness, plenty of challenges and the thrill of being underestimated.
Kidd, who was 7 months old when Ocean opened in March 2002, grew up in a family business environment.
Her late father, Alan Kidd, owned Cowboys gas station along U.S. 280, as well as Jack Rabbit car washes and other businesses. At 6 years old, she was on a milk crate running the Cowboys register.
“I loved it,” Kidd said. “I was a good kid, and I wanted to do the work.”
By 16, that work ethic came with a grown-up anxiety.
With her first paycheck from the Polo outlet store in Leeds, she called her mom in a panic.
“My paycheck is less than $500,” Kidd told her. “I need a $5,000 paycheck. How am I going to retire?”
She laughs at it now, but that “panic equals action” wiring has never really gone away.
“I’ve always compared myself to 50-year-old men running multimillion-dollar businesses,”
Kidd said. “I’ve always felt behind. It’s just been a panic from a young age.”
That’s the headspace she was in after another late bartending shift when she pulled up a listing on BizBuySell.com: an award-winning Birmingham restaurant for sale, name withheld.
She reverse-searched the clues, realized it was Ocean, built a PowerPoint for her financial advisor, walked into his office with hastily upgraded business clothes and hairstyle, and secured a loan.
“I always wanted to do something important,” Kidd said. “I wanted to feel special, I guess.”
Longtime Ocean employee and its new executive chef Jahaad Jackson said he’s already seeing her ambitious vision come to life.
“New energy, new vigor brings a lot more gusto to get stuff done,” Jackson said of Ocean’s youth infusion. “I see it as a strength.”
In June, Ocean was recognized by DiRōNA, the Distinguished Restaurants of North America, for exceptional fine dining and by Wine Spectator for noteworthy wine offerings.
“Ocean is not just mine; it’s everything that it’s been so far,” Kidd said. “It belongs to the people. I want to give this place a new life, but I don’t want to erase what it was for everybody. You can still feel like home — except we’ve had an update.”
Cahaba Heights resident Chloe Kidd is the new owner of the iconic seafood restaurant Ocean in Birmingham’s Southside. Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
HOFFMAN CONTINUED from page 1
“I never wanted to leave home,” Hoffman said with a laugh. “It’s hard to take a girl out of Texas.”
Today, however, she is thankful to be living in Vestavia Hills.
The married co-owners of Steel City Chiropractic recently opened their practice on Devereux Circle, combining chiropractic care, rehabilitation and personalized treatment plans designed to help patients not only recover from injuries but stay healthy for years to come.
For Hoehle, the move represented a homecoming. He grew up in Vestavia Hills. But for Hoffman, it meant leaving behind her family, career and comfort zone for a new life hundreds of miles away. It was a decision driven by love, family and a shared vision of helping people live healthier lives.
Before chiropractic school, Hoffman worked as a buyer for a major retail company, and like many people during the pandemic, she began reevaluating her future. A series of injuries had introduced her to chiropractic care years earlier, and the results were life changing.
“I had experienced injuries, and chiropractic care helped me tremendously,” Hoffman said. “I became interested in conservative care and helping people improve their quality of life without immediately turning to medications or surgery.”
At the same time, she was working in sales and began feeling constrained by the corporate environment. She wanted something more meaningful. Something that allowed her to work directly with people.
That search for a more meaningful career led her to Parker University in Dallas, where an unexpected meeting would change the course of her life.
On the first day of class in 2021, she met a fellow student named Alex Hoehle.
“I thought he was easy to connect with and had a great personality,” Hoffman said. “From the very beginning, he was friendly and genuine.”
Hoehle noticed her, as well. “I was attracted to her from the start,” he said. “She was smart, confident and incredibly driven.”
At first, they were simply classmates. Then study partners. Then friends. Three months passed before they finally went on their first date — or at least what was supposed to be a date.
“We thought we were just hanging out,” Hoffman said with a laugh.
The pair spent time exploring hiking trails and lakes around North Texas. Conversations stretched for hours. Eventually, both realized the friendship had become something more.
For the two, chiropractic school was demanding, and the shared experience brought them closer together.
“The trauma of school bonded us,” Hoehle joked.
The relationship moved quickly. They dated for a year, remained engaged for another year and married on Dec. 16, 2023. But there was only one challenge looming in the distance. Even before the wedding, Hoehle had begun dropping hints about returning home to Alabama. At first, Hoffman
dismissed the idea. Then the hints became more frequent.
“He definitely planted the seed, but I was very apprehensive about leaving home,” Hoffman admitted. “Texas was home. My family lived there. My friends lived there. My professional network was there.”
Beside all of that, Texas had a lot of other appeals. “There’s great food, great jobs, lots of activities and opportunities,” Hoffman said. “Fort Worth has this unique blend of Wild West history and modern growth, and I loved it.”
Still, Hoehle’s desire to return home never faded.
Born and raised in Vestavia Hills, he wanted to be closer to family. His nieces and nephews were growing up there, and his parents were nearby. He envisioned raising a family in the same community that had shaped him.
The more the couple discussed it, the more Hoffman began to see the appeal. “I love my husband, and family is really important to him,” she said. “I wanted to be supportive.”
Today, she has no regrets. “I’m so glad we live here, and everyone has been so welcoming.”
What surprised Hoffman most was the rhythm of life. “I don’t feel like my cortisol levels are as high,” she said with a laugh. “It’s more relaxed here than Texas.”
To Hoffman, Birmingham also feels more personal and connected compared to many rapidly growing Texas cities. “It’s easier to build relationships here,” she said.
The move became even more meaningful when her mother, Martina, relocated to
Alabama last September. Having family nearby has transformed the experience.
“It made a huge difference to us for my family to be here, also,” Hoffman said.
With Birmingham beginning to feel like home, the couple turned their attention to a dream they had discussed since chiropractic school, and in September 2025, they opened Steel City Chiropractic.
The clinic reflects the philosophy both developed while studying chiropractic medicine, human strength and performance. Their goal is not simply getting patients out of pain. It is to help them stay out of pain.
According to the practice’s approach, treatment begins with identifying the root cause of a problem rather than simply addressing symptoms. Patients undergo evaluations designed to assess muscles, joints, discs, movement patterns and functional limitations.
From there, individualized treatment plans combine chiropractic adjustments with corrective exercises and rehabilitation.
“We want long-term stability for our patients,” Hoehle said. “We don’t want them feeling better for a week and then ending up right back where they started.”
That philosophy aligns with the clinic’s broader mission. According to their website, Steel City Chiropractic focuses on helping patients move better, perform better and live healthier lives through evidence-based chiropractic care and rehabilitation strategies.
The goal is to empower patients to take ownership of their health. “We view
chiropractic care as part of a healthy lifestyle,” Hoffman said.
Running the business together has brought rewards, as well as challenges.
The couple quickly discovered that entrepreneurship does not end when the office closes. Conversations about patients, scheduling, marketing and business operations often follow them home.
“There were definitely moments where all our focus was on work, but we collaborate in a beautiful way,” Hoehle said.
Both Hoehle and Hoffman agree the experience has strengthened their relationship. They have learned to communicate more effectively, trust each other and rely on each other’s strengths.
Despite the challenges, both say the sacrifices have been worth it.
Less than a year after opening, Steel City Chiropractic continues building its patient base through referrals and community relationships. The couple remains focused on serving Vestavia Hills and surrounding communities.
For Hoehle, returning home has been everything he hoped it would be. For Hoffman, Alabama has become something she never expected.
“It wasn’t easy leaving Texas,” she said. “But now I understand why Alex wanted to come back.”
For a woman who once swore she would never leave Texas, that is about the highest compliment Alabama can receive.
Alex Hoehle and Nicole Hoffman say they enjoy working together at Steel City Chiropractic. Photos by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Even though Nicole Hoffman says she enjoys living and working in Alabama, she will never let go of her Texas roots.
Alex Hoehle works with a patient on the decompression table.
CONSTRUCTION
CONTINUED from page 1
US 31 GATEWAY
The $1.2 million gateway project, which includes construction of a 15-foot-tall, 130-foot-long wall parallel to U.S. 31, had run into some delays after it was discovered the wall anchoring system was not being installed correctly and some of the work on the wall had to be halted and redone.
But workers in July were making steady progress on reinstalling the decorative stone facade, and the remaining work in the gateway project was expected to be complete by the end of August, Downes said. That included a little remaining site work, landscaping and improvements to the 1980s-era Sybil Temple replica at the interstate exit.
The decorative stones will help tie the old temple replica to the new retaining wall to give it a seamless look, as well as matching the decorative stone used in other city buildings and structures, Downes said.
Also, it’s important to note that the 130-foot-long wall and other aspects of the gateway project are not just for aesthetic purposes, Downes said. The project included some important work to improve stormwater flow and lessen water pooling on roadways and to help spur economic development in the corridor, Downes said.
The 130-foot-long wall will help the adjoining property owner — Steve Issis of Issis and Sons — redevelop his property in the most efficient and effective manner, Downes said. Issis recently began clearing some of the trees behind the wall and will be backfilling against the wall at his own expense to give him more developable land.
“Because it’s his dime and his expense to do this, his timing will be driven by the market, but I think it sets the stage for a good economic development opportunity,” Downes said.
Also, it’s worth noting that as the city has been trying to lure a nicer hotel and other entities to the former Days Inn site along U.S. 31, one of the obstacles noted by potential users has been the dated look of that entrance point to the city, Downes said.
“The ability to change that perception and change that thought process [with a nicer looking gateway] should help us not just at that spot but immediately adjacent to that as you come into a very important business corridor in the city,” Downes said.
While some people have been critical of the gateway project, the whole project was the result of communitywide meetings that identified sprucing up the city’s entrance as an important objective to improve first impressions and match the standard of living in Vestavia Hills, Downes said.
“At that gateway is crucial real estate for the future of our city,” he said.
PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
The project to add a pedestrian bridge over U.S. 31 between Wald Park and the Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest ran into some delays related to the elevator installation, but that problem was resolved, Downes said.
After a period of inaction on the site, workers have been busy on site again, actively working to finish the tower, get the elevator installed and construct a stairway from the library property to the bridge, Downes said. The contractor is reporting a scheduled completion date of late August, he said.
Downes emphasized that while the city of Vestavia Hills serves as the project sponsor and provided about $1 million of the total
$5.3 million cost, the city is not managing this project. The project is being managed by the Alabama Department of Transportation, and a city representative has been present in meetings between ALDOT and the contractor, he said.
“The city is an encourager, but we are not in control,” Downes said.
Once the pedestrian bridge is open, the city will begin a $93,100 project to extend a sidewalk from the pedestrian bridge to the existing sidewalk just to the south in front of Baumhower’s Victory Grille. That sidewalk extension is projected to begin in January and be completed in the summer of 2027, according to the city’s website.
MASSEY ROAD
The city is in a similar position with the $6.1 million project to widen and improve Massey Road and add a sidewalk along the road. That project also is being managed by ALDOT but ran into delays after the contractor encountered a water main that did not show up on the engineering drawings. The water main had to be relocated.
The new retaining wall that had to be built on the south side of the road to provide support for the road also had to be redesigned due to unexpected issues encountered with the site once construction began, Downes said. You don’t always know what you’re going to run into when you start driving steel pilings down into bedrock to hold up a wall, he said.
The contractor expected to complete the work with steel pilings in early August and after that would be pouring the rest of the concrete structures and laying down asphalt, Downes said. As of mid-July, the expected completion date was September.
The western portion of Massey Road, where the retaining wall is being built, has
been closed since December 2024.
VETERANS MEMORIAL PLAZA
Construction of a Veterans Memorial Plaza at Altadena Valley Park is going as planned, Downes said. Construction started this spring and is still anticipated to be completed this fall, he said.
The $477,000 project will provide a dedicated space to remember veterans and include a monument, pavilion, landscaping, irrigation and drainage improvements to enhance the park.
The Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Foundation pledged $100,000 for the project, and Jefferson and Shelby counties each pledged $50,000, Downes said. State Rep. Mike Shaw and others have pledged additional funding for the memorial as well, he said.
POOL HEATERS
A $460,000 project to add two heaters to the competition pool at the Vestavia Hills Aquatic Complex at Wald Park also is on schedule, Downes said. The heaters have been installed and tested and passed their inspection, he said.
Fencing to hide the pool heaters was being installed in July, and the heaters will be ready for operation when it’s time to turn them on in the fall, extending the swim season for year-round use, Downes said.
ROCKY RIDGE TURN LANE
The project to add a right turn lane from Rocky Ridge Road to Dolly Ridge Road also was on schedule to be completed in time for the start of school on Aug. 11, Downes said.
The city provided $90,000 for design work, and construction is being handled by public works crews with Jefferson County.
Anyone who travels that area regularly
knows that during the school year, traffic backs up at that intersection, particularly in the mornings, Downes said. “Anything we can do at that intersection to improve how traffic navigates the intersection should be a positive,” he said.
The space for a turn lane was minimal, so the turn lane had to be designed in such a way that it provided enough room for traffic but protected the structural integrity of an adjoining dentist office, Downes said.
The turn lane also was designed to allow for a future sidewalk extension to connect to other sidewalks in that vicinity, he said.
OTHER PROJECTS
The Vestavia Hills City Council also on July 20 approved a $643,000 contract for site work for the planned police station, maintenance facility and potential satellite library at the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex. That work will include tree clearing, bringing in fill dirt and implementing erosion control measures.
The city also expects to receive bids for the expansion and renovation of Fire Station No. 4 at Liberty Park by Aug. 25 and hopefully award a contract by late September, Downes said.
Vestavia Hills also is collaborating with Mountain Brook for construction of a fourstory, portable fire training facility at the Over The Mountain Regional Training Center in Mountain Brook. Vestavia Hills agreed to spend a little more than $1 million for the structure, which will cover at least 5,000 square feet and support live fire training with insulated burn rooms. That facility should be completed by early fall, Downes said.
People can see updates on capital projects in Vestavia Hills on the city’s website by clicking on City Projects under the Community tab on the home page.
The contractor for the pedestrian bridge over U.S. 31 estimates work will be completed in August. Photos by Jon Anderson.
Massey Road remains blocked off at Columbiana Road as work continues to complete a retaining wall along the road.
Work was still in progress on a retaining wall along Massey Road in Vestavia Hills.
Work continues on the elevator shaft for the pedestrian bridge over U.S. 31 in Vestavia Hills in July
