January 2026 | Volume 13 | Issue 9
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A campus reborn Hub in the Hills plans to open this spring
By JON ANDERSON
By EMILY REED
H
ub in the Hills, a new center for nonprofits and service organizations, is expected to officially open to the public in Vestavia Hills this spring, bringing the community and families resources for learning, connection and service. Ammie Akin, an educator with more than 20 years of experience, and her husband, Will, a principal of Capital Growth Real Estate, purchased the former Vestavia Hills Elementary Central property at 1289 Montgomery Highway in 2023 through a company called Wellspring Holdings. They bought the property from the Vestavia Hills board of education for $1.25 million.
See HUB IN THE HILLS | page 20
Main: Workers reshape the land in front of the former Vestavia Hills Elementary Central to add parking for the new Hub in the Hills nonprofit and community ministry center at 1289 Montgomery Highway in November. Insets: Unless U — an organization that provides continuing education, life skills and arts programming for adults with developmental disabilities — prepares to expand into Hub in the Hills. The images highlight daily instruction, community connection, and inclusive spaces designed to support growth, belonging and opportunity. Photos courtesy of the Hub in the Hills.
INSIDE
Teachers of the Year climb different ladders to success
Sponsors.................. 4 City............................ 6
Schoolhouse............ 7 Business..................10
Real Estate.............12 Sports......................13
This year’s Vestavia Hills’ Teachers of the Year took different paths to get into the world of teaching. Katie Smith, a fifth grade teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary East who was named the Elementary Teacher of the Year for the entire district, always knew she wanted to be a teacher. She grew up playing school at home Smith as a kid and went directly into studying education as a profession. But for Hannah Peterson, a sports medicine teacher at Vestavia Hills High School who was selected as Secondary Teacher of the Year among individual winners at the middle schools, freshman center and high school, there was a different Peterson dynamic. Peterson initially thought she wanted to be a physical therapist, but then she took a health occupations class, found out about athletic training and fell in love with the idea of helping athletes on the sideline or court. While she was at Troy University, she did an internship with the Columbus Cottonmouths hockey team and found herself working with a bunch of Canadians with different types of backgrounds.
Community.............18
See TEACHERS | page 22 Scan the QR code to follow us online!
Best in Class
All-South Metro
VHHS majorettes earn top honors in fall marching festivals.
Caleb Boylan and Charlie Taaffe lead Rebels with first-team selections.
See page 7
See page 16
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Vestavia Voice SPONSORED CONTENT
Primary Care With A Personal Touch Oxmoor Medical Group brings back patient-first care with local roots, same-day access and a warm, independent approach to primary medicine For Dr. Sarah Kunin, the decision to establish her own private, primary-care practice came down to one simple reason: providing better patient care. As healthcare grew increasingly corpora- Sarah Kunin, MD tized and burdened by bureaucracy, she felt her patients were being lost in the shuffle. “Patients couldn’t reach our office when they called,” Dr. Kunin recalled, referring to the call center used by her former employer. “Now, when patients call, they can speak directly with our staff, and we can take care of them right away.” In 2023, Dr. Kunin opened Oxmoor Medical Group in Homewood, restoring a sense of personal connection to modern primary care. With the help of friends and family, her vision for a more compassionate, accessible clinic quickly took root. She hired two nurse practitioners, and her father — and
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longtime mentor — Dr. James Abroms even came out of retirement to lend a hand. “It’s great to come in,” Dr. Abroms said with a smile. “I get to work with my James Abroms, MD daughter and see some of my old patients, who are really more like friends. It’s been wonderful.” Nurse Practitioner Kelly Herring, who joined the practice when it first opened, has watched Kelly Herring, CRNP Oxmoor Medical Group grow steadily over the past two years. “Everyone benefits from primary
care and preventative medicine. Being able to observe and trend a patient’s progress is so fulfilling,” Herring said. “I also enjoy collaborating with Dr. Kunin and I appreciate her passion for taking care of patients.” To meet the increasing demand, Nurse Practitioner Erin Rosier joined the team just over a year ago. The journey to private practice began in 2022, when Dr. Kunin approached her brother, David Abroms, an accoun- Erin Rosier, CRNP tant and entrepreneur, about taking the leap. The goal was to establish a thriving, traditional, insurance-based primary care office that could remain financially sustainable while giving patients the kind
of personalized, attentive care they deserve. While some cautioned against it, citing the challenges of operating a small private clinic in today’s complex healthcare landscape, Dr. Kunin remained undeterred. “My first and foremost priority was improving patient care,” she said. “To do that, I knew we had to go independent.” At the start of 2023, David moved back to Birmingham to help open Oxmoor Medical Group. Now the clinic just celebrated its two-year anniversary. Dr. Kunin credits the practice’s success to its dedicated staff — many of whom have been on staff since her father ran his private practice at the same location — and to the loyalty of their patients. “Practicing medicine here is such a privilege,” she said. “Our patients make it all worthwhile.” While Dr. Kunin is now limiting new appointments to family members of existing patients, Practitioners Herring and Rosier are both currently welcoming new patients to the practice. Oxmoor Medical Group accepts all major insurance providers.
VestaviaVoice.com
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Vestavia Voice
ABOUT US
Editor’s Note By Jon Anderson I’ve been covering schools in one way or another for 31 years, and one thing I’ve noticed is that the teachers selected for Teacher of the Year have some things in common — they all are passionate about what they do. They love teaching, and they are very knowledgeable about the subject matter they teach. But what sticks out to me more than anything is that the best teachers seem to focus on building relationships and connecting with their students. They truly care, and students usually pick up on that. And they go to great lengths to make their lessons engaging for students. It doesn’t happen by accident. It takes a lot of preparation and
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planning — and creativity. In this edition, I hope you enjoy reading our cover story about this year’s Teachers of the Year for Vestavia Hills, Katie Smith and Hannah Peterson, as well as Emily Reed’s piece on progress being made at the Hub in the Hills nonprofit center that is taking up residence in the former Vestavia Hills Elementary Central. Happy reading, and Happy New Year!
Alabama Pediatric Dentistry (4) Allsteel Fence (6) Ambrose Kitchen & Bath (17) Aqua Systems of Birmingham (21) Asher Point of Hoover | Sagora Senior (9) Bistro V (8) Budget Blinds (15) Clearview Strategy Partners (23) Closets by Design (1) Compact (10) Cummings Jewelry Design (1) Dermatology & Skin Care Center of Birmingham (9) Dr. Edgar Luna - Divine Smiles (6) ENT Associates of Alabama (12) Gardner Landscaping (3) Graceful Aging and Wellness (5)
Publisher: Dan Starnes Managing Editor: Kyle Parmley Community Editor: Jon Anderson Staff Writer: Kelli S. Hewett Published by:
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Legals: Vestavia Voice is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. Vestavia Voice is designed to inform the Vestavia community of area school, family and community events. Information in Vestavia Voice is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of Vestavia Voice. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.
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January 2026 • 5 SPONSORED CONTENT
Graceful Aging expands team and expertise to better serve Birmingham’s mature adults T
he American population is aging rapidly, with more people living longer and seeking ways to maintain their health and independence. One thing is certain — regular exercise is essential for aging gracefully, preserving mobility, and maintaining a high quality of life. That’s where Graceful Aging in Mountain Brook continues to make a difference. “Our slogan is ‘Age with grace. Move with confidence,’” says Sarah Brumfield, a Certified Fitness Trainer, Functional Aging Specialist and licensed Physical Therapist Assistant who founded Graceful Aging. “We help mature adults stay active, independent and confident through safe, individualized fitness programs.” Graceful Aging provides top-quality, in-home training to improve strength, balance and flexibility, thereby reducing fall risk and promoting longevity. Serving Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, Homewood and Hoover, the Graceful Aging team creates customized programs based on each client’s health history, current functional status and personal goals.
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“Following a personalized fitness program is essential for living a happy and healthy life,” Brumfield says. “Routine exercise improves mood and cognitive function and reduces the onset or frequency of conditions like cardiovascular disease, Type II diabetes, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.” FUNCTIONAL AGING EXPERTISE Graceful Aging’s team continues to expand their knowledge to maintain expertise in their field. Brumfield and her team are now certified Functional Aging Specialists through the Functional Aging Institute, bringing evidencebased strategies to help mature
adults move better, feel stronger and live longer. “As Functional Aging Specialists, we model clinical excellence by not settling for less than what each client is capable of,” Brumfield says. “We focus on helping each person reach their highest potential — not just physically, but in overall function and confidence.” The Graceful Aging team has also grown, welcoming Kailey Staggs, a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant and Functional Aging Specialist. Staggs brings a strong background in therapeutic exercise and mature adult wellness, further enhancing the program’s commitment to quality and individualized care.
A LIFESTYLE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE A lifestyle that includes routine exercise can be extremely influential in preventing physical decline and disease. Studies continue to show that those who exercise routinely — at any age — experience lower risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, diabetes, vascular disease, metabolic syndrome, chronic pain and Alzheimer’s disease. “Don’t wait until you have a decline in function or a fall to make health your priority,” Brumfield advises seniors. “Preventative wellness is one of the most powerful ways to preserve independence.” Graceful Aging offers one-on-one 50-minute sessions, hybrid monthly fitness programs, assisted stretching and mobility sessions, and in-home assessments. All equipment is provided.
6 • January 2026
Vestavia Voice
CITY
Mayor’s Minute By Ashley Curry
The new design for the southern gateway sign on U.S. 31 moves the lighted “Vestavia Hills” letters in front of the Sybil Temple replica instead of in front of the 130-foot-long retaining wall parallel to U.S. 31. Sketch courtesy of city of Vestavia Hills.
New design for southern gateway on US 31 By JON ANDERSON Vestavia Hills officials have changed the plans for a major part of the southern gateway improvement project along U.S. 31 near Interstate 65. The plan approved by the city council in mid-October included a 15-foot-tall, 130-footlong wall with “Vestavia Hills” written on it in illuminated letters, but the new plan is to put the illuminated letters in front of the existing replica of the Sybil Temple next to the interstate. That will allow the words “Vestavia Hills” to be seen more clearly by people getting off the ramp from I-65 North, Assistant City Manager Cinnamon McCulley said. The illuminated letters will wrap around the front of the temple replica and will be flanked by new landscaping, McCulley said. The large wall will remain parallel to U.S. 31, she said. The purpose for the wall was not
just for the sign but also to provide support for the land behind it, which is expected to be redeveloped for commercial purposes. The wall will be made of stacked fieldstone and stucco panels and will be softened by landscaping in front of it, McCulley said. The fieldstone will be similar to the stones used in other city buildings and the new pedestrian bridge over U.S. 31 near Wald Park, she said. The $1.2 million southern gateway project also includes a second sign bearing the city’s name across the street by the Chevron gasoline station that will be more directly visible to people exiting I-65 North. There will be additional landscaping on both sides of U.S. 31 and in the median, as well as stormwater drainage improvements in that area. The contractor, Gillespie Construction, anticipated limited night-time lane closures along U.S. 31 between mid-December and January, City Manager Jeff Downes said.
“Quality Built Fences Since 1964”
December was a busy month, and hopefully you were able to participate in the numerous city events. I hope Santa was good to you and your family. I don’t know about you, but I am absolutely amazed at how quickly 2025 came and went. So here we are in 2026. Happy New Year! I have previously shared a popular quotation from Mark Twain, in which he said, “Now is the accepted time to make your annual good resolutions.” I think he is also credited with saying that “New Year’s resolutions come in one year and out the other.” Personally, I like this thought from Brad Paisley. He said, “New Year’s Day is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one!” As we start with a “blank” page, let’s make resolutions we can keep and do the things we want to do for ourselves, but let’s also do the things we know we should do for others. In a sermon a few years ago, Dr. Bill Brunson, senior minister at Vestavia Hills Methodist Church, asked the congregation, “Will the direction you are taking get you to your intended destination?” I will apply this thought to the vision we have for Vestavia Hills. I think we would all agree that we intend for Vestavia Hills to be the
“life above” with the quality of life that we all desire. The question is, are we going in the direction that will lead to our intended goal? I am satisfied that we are heading in the right direction. We have a dedicated city council, a true professional city manager and a superb staff of department heads who will continue the success that we have enjoyed. Early in the new year we will begin the strategic planning sessions to chart the course for our city. You have heard about some of the planned projects in Liberty Park for the coming year, which include a new police facility, a maintenance facility and a branch library. The veterans memorial at Altadena Valley Park will come to fruition this year. You will hear more about these in the coming months. In closing, if you are making a New Year’s resolution for this year, may I suggest a resolution to volunteer some of your time or talent to the volunteer groups that contribute so much to the quality of life that we enjoy in Vestavia Hills. There are opportunities for all age groups — our senior programs, our library, our schools, our parks and recreation, our civic clubs and our churches — just to name a few. All have opportunities for volunteers.
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January 2026 • 7
SCHOOLHOUSE The Vestavia Hills High School 2025-26 majorettes. Photos courtesy of Patty Green.
VHHS majorettes earn top honors in fall marching festivals By APRIL COFFEY The Vestavia Hills High School majorettes set a goal at the beginning of this past marching band season: win the best-in-class award at a band competition. They did that and more. The team swept top honors at both the Pride of Hayden Marching Festival and the Mud Creek Marching Festival in Hanceville. The team also earned superior ratings at both events and achieved one of their highest accolades to date: the Shirley BeShears Memorial Award, presented to the highestscoring majorette line of the entire Pride of Hayden competition. “Watching them not only achieve that goal but also win the Shirley BeShears Memorial Award was incredibly special because they got to see all of their hard work and dedication pay
off,” said sponsor and choreographer Hanna Hatchett, a Vestavia Hills High School alumna and former Crimsonette with the University of Alabama. Team captain Ella Claire Hunter, a senior, shared the same feeling of pride. “I am most proud of our Best Overall Majorette award,” she said. “Not only did we earn the top score in our division, but we also received the highest score out of every majorette team at the entire competition. We worked incredibly hard for this achievement, and I’m so proud of our dedication, commitment and teamwork.” Hunter, who has been twirling since age 8 and been a majorette for nine years, said the experience has shaped her life. “What I love most about being a majorette is getting to perform alongside my teammates,” she said. “Doing something you love becomes
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even more meaningful when you get to share it with the people you love.” Being chosen as captain this year was a milestone she treasures. “I truly love this team, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been chosen for this role,” Hunter shared. “Leading and serving my teammates has been an honor.” Hatchett said the team’s success is the product of year-round dedication. Individual practice, private lessons, dance training and college clinics prepare the athletes long before competition season begins. Once football season starts, the team’s schedule intensifies. “We rehearse with the band every day before school from 6:50-7:50 a.m., then have a section rehearsal during first period,” she said. “We spend a lot of time perfecting technique, cleaning choreography, and repping tricks and
exchanges to make sure the girls are always performance ready.” Hunter credits the sport for many of the opportunities she’s had, including representing Team USA in 2023. She also acknowledges the support of her family, friends and faith. “My walk with Christ is a big part of who I am,” she said. “The Lord has provided me with such amazing gifts and grace to be able to do the things I love.” As the majorettes look ahead, the team is already preparing for upcoming baton competitions, including Winterfest in Opelika and the Alabama State Contest in March. For Hatchett, the true joy comes from seeing her students shine. “I love seeing the joy they get from performing and sharing their talent with the community,” she said. “It means the world to me.”
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Vestavia Voice
SCHOOLHOUSE
In the Classroom GET TO KNOW
For more education news, connect with Vestavia Voice online: visit our website, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.
ACCOLADES
Alabama’s Middle School Art Teacher School district earns 97 on state report card of the Year Sarah Caroline Padgett By STAFF
By APRIL COFFEY Q: Tell our readers about yourself. A: I’m an artist and art teacher from Vestavia Hills. I graduated from Vestavia in 2014 and went on to UAB to major in art studio, specifically sculpture. I got my master’s degree in art education and started teaching in 2020 — the best time to become an Padgett educator. I have been teaching middle school since then and have been at Pizitz (my alma mater) since 2021. Q: What was your reaction when you learned you were receiving the state art teacher award? A: I was surprised! I have been involved with AAEA (the Alabama Art Education Association) since I was student teaching and have been amazed by the organization since then. It has connected me to the most incredible educators and mentors. Q: Why did you choose to teach at the middle school level? A: It really fell into my lap. I wanted to teach elementary out of college, and I
first got a job teaching K-8 where I would travel from the elementary school to the middle school each day during lunch. It was during this time that I realized I loved this age. They are able to do a lot more advanced things; they have wonderful ideas, and the best part is that they’re not “too cool” yet to share those ideas and be vulnerable. Q: How do you encourage creativity in students who may not see themselves as naturally artistic? A: I teach in a non-traditional way called TAB (teaching for artistic behaviors), which is a choice-based method of teaching art. I’ve found this to be the best way to have students creatively connect. Q: Do you have any advice for young aspiring artists or future art teachers? A: Be a thinker! Be curious about the world around you. When you do that, creativity follows. Read the complete Q and A online at vestaviavoice.com.
For the 2024-25 school year, Vestavia Hills City Schools received a 97 on its annual report card from the Alabama State Department of Education for the third consecutive year. The state report card highlights academic performance, growth and other key indicators for every public school and district across the state, and Vestavia Hills City Schools once again earned one of the highest overall scores in Alabama. Each of the district’s nine schools also earned an A on the state report card, underscoring consistent quality of education across the district. The individual school scores are as follows: ► Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights: 99 ► Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge: 99 ► Vestavia Hills Elementary East: 100 ► Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park: 98 ► Vestavia Hills Elementary West: 100 ► Liberty Park Middle School: 98 ► Pizitz Middle School: 99 ► Vestavia Hills High School Freshman Campus: 96 ► Vestavia Hills High School: 96
SOURCE: ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
“Our teachers, administrators and support staff work every day to provide learning environments where every student can thrive,” Superintendent Todd Freeman said in a news release. “These results are a reflection of that effort and of our community’s shared commitment to excellence. We are grateful for the partnership of our families and the support of our Board of Education in making success possible for every student.” To view the full 2024-25 Alabama State Department of Education Report Card for the district or individual schools, go to statereportcard.alsde. edu/SelectSchool.aspx. You also can review previous years’ reports and compare schools or school systems.
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10 • January 2026
Vestavia Voice
BUSINESS
Business Buzz BUSINESS HAPPENINGS NOW OPEN Abbey Crump-Crook has opened Calista Esthetics Studio in about 900 square feet at 3254 Cahaba Heights Road, behind Doodles. A ribbon cutting was held Dec. 11. Crump-Crook previously was inside Phenix Salon Suites at 3036 Healthy Way as SimplyAbbey EsManers and Crump-Crook thetics. Her other esthetician is Maddie Maners. The studio’s services include everything from customized skin care to lash and brow artistry, spray tans, hydrafacials, microneedling, dermaplaning, skin peels, waxing and botox. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday. vagaro.com/calistaestheticsstudio, 205-522-9332
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS The Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce will be moving its 2026 luncheon meetings away from the Vestavia Country Club due to renovations happening at the country club. Instead, the chamber will rotate meeting locations. Here is the schedule: ► Jan. 12: Vestavia Hills Civic Center ► Feb. 10: Vestavia Hills Methodist Church ► March 10: Mountaintop Church ► April 14: Old Overton Club ► May 12: Vestavia Hills Baptist Church ► June 9: The Church at Liberty Park
Do you have news to share about a business in Vestavia Hills or the greater Birmingham area? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings
► July: No luncheon ► Aug. 11: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church ► Sept. 8: Vestavia Hills Methodist Church ► Oct. 13: Shades Mountain Baptist Church ► Nov. 10: Mountaintop Church ► Dec. 8: Old Overton Club business.vestaviahills.org, 205-823-5011
Vestavia Voice is spotlighting local businesses in print and online. Submit your business for consideration here: go.starnesmedia.com/business-spotlight
AmFirst, which has a branch in Vestavia Hills at 1112 Montgomery Highway, in December awarded 14 grants, totaling more than $60,000, to organizations across Alabama. The grants ranged from $2,500 to $7,500 and included: $7,500 to the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama for its education and career pathways program; $5,000 to Blanket Fort Hope for its nutritional health program; $5,000 to Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank for its Walk-in Wednesday program; $5,000 to the Hoover Public Library for its summer feeding program; $5,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile for its Taste of Hope Family Meals program; $5,000 to Shelby Emergency Assistance for its utility assistance program; $5,000 to Smile-A-Mile for general programming; $5,000 to The Link of Cullman County for its Onward Workforce program; $5,000 to Three Hots and a Cot for a mattress refresh at its veterans’ center; $2,500 to Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center for its “Restore” pillar programming; $2,500 to Christian Love Pantry for holiday food distributions; $2,500 to the College Choice Foundation for its Bateman Scholars program; $2,500 to The Power of Life Foundation for its community-based programs and $2,500 to United Ability for its preapprentice training initiative. amfirst.org, 205-582-5270 Community Bank, which has an office at 8001 Liberty Parkway in Vestavia Hills, announced in December that the bank has surpassed $5 billion in total assets. Over
120 years, the bank has grown to 56 offices with more than 850 team members across Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and Tennessee. Communitybank.net, 205-747-3200
PERSONNEL MOVES Hank Marks has joined River Financial Services, River Bank & Trust’s division that provides access to investment services through StoneX Wealth Management. As senior vice president and financial advisor, Marks will serve clients in the bank’s Birmingham Region, which includes the Birmingham, Clanton and Tuscaloosa markets. Marks has nearly 25 years of experience, working in trading, investment oversight and advisory roles. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business Marks administration from Birmingham-Southern College. Active in his community, Marks serves as a youth basketball commissioner for Mountain Brook Athletics and a member of the Canterbury Child Development Center Advisory Board. He also volunteers with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama and Rise Against Hunger. He and his wife, Shannon, have two sons, Henry and John William. They live in Mountain Brook and are active members of Canterbury United Methodist Church.
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January 2026 • 11
BUSINESS GET TO KNOW
SPOTLIGHT
Mudtown Eat & Drink Marketing Stitchwork Design Co. brings cozy, creative hub to Vestavia Hills Manager Catherine Gamble By JORDYN DAVIS
By JORDYN DAVIS Catherine Gamble is marketing manager at Mudtown Eat & Drink, located at 3144 Green Valley Road in Cahaba Heights. The restaurant celebrated its 20th anniversary in November. Q: How long have you been working at Mudtown? Gamble A: I’ve been with the restaurant for about five years, starting as a server and moving into management in the last year. Q: What makes Mudtown so unique? A: What makes Mudtown unique is the true family feel you get from the place. Mudtown has always put community first. We’re tucked away in Cahaba Heights — it feels like one of those places where everybody knows each other. It’s laid-back and welcoming, with that “home away from home” vibe you really can’t replicate. I actually grew up in Cahaba Heights, right up the street from the restaurant, and funnily enough, Dave, the owner, has known my family for years — we just didn’t realize it until I started the job. That connection is part of what makes Mudtown so special. When the 2011 tornadoes came through Cahaba Heights and devastated much of the community, Mudtown — and Dave, of course — handed out food to people whose homes were damaged and who were out cleaning up. He’s always been deeply involved with the community and makes it a priority to make everyone feel welcome. That spirit carries over into the restaurant with both the staff and our guests. Q: Is there anything else you would like to add? A: We’re so thankful for the Cahaba Heights community and beyond for supporting us all these years. Mudtown is more than just a restaurant — it’s a little piece of the neighborhood, and we’re proud to be part of it. Come try us out if you haven’t already.
What started out as a hobby for owner Greta Waldrip has become a massive success, resulting in her first cross-stitching storefront, Stitchwork Design Co. After picking up the hobby while in college, Waldrip took a brief break after graduating and began cross-stitching again during the COVID19 pandemic. She soon began to sell custom fabrics online. “Since I opened my online store about a year before the retail location, it became clear that Vestavia was a good central location for my customers,” she said. “When I found my current location in Cahaba Heights, I knew that would be the perfect spot.” Stitchwork Design Co. was introduced to Cahaba Heights in July, and Waldrip has since has hosted a variety of events, such as Halloween stitch events, to boost those who are dedicated to their craft and enjoy working with other stitchers. According to Waldrip, the stitching community is unique because it offers creativity for everyone. Her store offers pillows, stitch paintings, fabric bags, needles and more. “In 2026, I plan to offer classes for people who want to learn how to cross stitch,” she said. “The best way to learn about upcoming classes and other events is to follow us on social media under Stitchwork Design Co.” Stitchwork Design Co. is at 3250 Cahaba Heights Road and is open Tuesday-Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Greta Waldrip opened her first brick-and-mortar location of Stitchwork Design Co. in the Cahaba Heights community in Vestavia Hills. Photo by Jordyn Davis.
HOUSEHOLD DROP-OFF
2026 Events
(Inclement weather backup, Feb 7)
May 9
9-11:30 AM
June 13
9-11:30 AM
September 12
9-11:30 AM
October 17
8-11:30 AM
January 31
9-11:30 AM
March 14
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Village Water Reclamation Facility 1440 Pleasant Hill Rd, Birmingham, 35224
9-11:30 AM
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility 3923 Clear Water Dr, Bessemer, 35023
April 25
8-11:30 AM
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, 35223
Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: City of Bessemer Laydown Yard 1205 15th Ave N, Bessemer, 35020 Site 2: First Baptist Church of GardendaleSouth Location 940 Main St, Gardendale 35071 Site 3: Classic Car Motoring 3900 Grants Mill Rd, Irondale 35210
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Center Point Satellite Courthouse 2651 Center Point Pkwy, Birmingham, 35215
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham City Hall / Linn Park 710 20th St N, Birmingham, 35203
Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: Camp Bessemer 3295 King St, Bessemer, 35023
Site 2: Camp Ketona 121 County Shop Rd, Birmingham, 35217
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12 • January 2026
Vestavia Voice
REAL ESTATE
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VestaviaVoice.com
January 2026 • 13
SPORTS
Rebels earn state runner-up trophy in flag football The Vestavia Hills High School flag football team finished as the state runner-up in Class 6A-7A, playing in the state title game on Dec. 3 at Protective Stadium in Birmingham. Photo by Todd Lester.
By KYLE PARMLEY A phenomenal season by the Vestavia Hills High School flag football team didn’t conclude with a storybook ending, but Wednesday’s result in no way diminished the Rebels’ accomplishments. Central-Phenix City won its third straight state title with a 46-7 win over Vestavia Hills on Wednesday in the Class 6A-7A final in the Super 7 at Protective Stadium. “It didn’t end the way we wanted it to, but that Central team is something else,” Vestavia Hills head coach Daniel Davis said following the game. “But I wouldn’t have wanted to do it with any other girls than the ones in that locker room.” Central was crowned the USA Today national champion in 2024 and entered the week ranked No. 3 nationally. Vestavia was not far behind, though, ranked second in the state and No. 6 nationally. Both teams entered Wednesday’s game boasting long winning streaks, with Central extending its streak to 57 consecutive wins and Vestavia’s streak ending at 27 wins in a row. The Rebels struck first in the championship game, driving down on the field on their opening possession. Julia Rose hit Alexis Rubin for a 2-yard touchdown pass and the Rebels converted the extra point to go up 7-0. The Red Devils tied the game less than a minute later, as Mariah Harrison hit Amya Brooks for a 66-yard score. Central scored once more in the first quarter, with Savannah Sevier catching a 1-yard pass from Harrison. Colby Cook caught a 17-yard touchdown, Brooks ran for a 2-yard score and Sevier caught another touchdown as Central surged to a 34-7 lead at the break.
Harrison had a 7-yard run in the third quarter to cap off a brilliant performance, as she totaled five touchdowns on the day. She completed 13 of 24 passes for 243 yards and four scores while rushing for 80 yards and the other touchdown. Brooks wound up as the leading receiver, catching three passes for 83 yards. Cook had four grabs for 76 yards, Sevier finished with 51 yards on three catches and Madison Fuller had two catches for 30 yards. Vestavia Hills has lost just seven total games in the last three seasons, and Davis took over this year without skipping a beat. The Rebels’ only other loss before Wednesday was to Moody in the second game of the year — the
same Moody team that went on to win the Class 1A-5A title. “I knew what we had in place. It was just kind of getting it put together and figuring out the way we were going to attack different teams,” Davis said of the team. Rose finished off a career that was nothing shy of spectacular as the Rebels’ quarterback. She completed 23 of 37 passes for 194 yards on the day and surpassed 7,000 passing yards for the year while throwing 122 touchdowns. “It’s been fun watching her grow. She’s a competitor. She’s a perfectionist. I’ve said it multiple times, but I’ve got a college quarterback playing at the high school level, and she’s learned how to be a leader. She put this team on
her back in the semifinals and just wasn’t going to let us lose,” Davis said. “This team has become a family, and we’ve just worked so hard all season,” Rose added. “At the end of the day, it is just a game, and it’s not something you can do forever, but I’ve enjoyed doing it throughout high school.” Rubin had a special season, as well, scoring 54 receiving touchdowns and intercepting 30 passes. In the final, she had seven catches for 42 yards and a score. “My teammates,” Rubin said of her favorite part of this team. “I’m so blessed to have these amazing teammates. They’ve all encouraged me, and we’ve done a great job of encouraging each other.”
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14 • January 2026
Vestavia Voice
SPORTS
All-South Metro Volleyball Millie Burgess named Player of the Year By KYLE PARMLEY The 2025 high school volleyball season featured some new faces making deep postseason runs. Hewitt-Trussville returned to the state tournament for the first time in 36 years, Briarwood announced its presence as a force once again and Spain Park made another deep playoff run in its return to state. But plenty of players and teams continued to make strong statements, as they have made a habit of doing. The Under the Lights All-South Metro Volleyball Team aims to recognize the top performers from the season. Millie Burgess of Vestavia Hills is the Overall Player of the Year after capping off her high school career with another brilliant season. She posted 424 kills and 294 digs, and her impact is far beyond the stat sheet for the Rebels. She will head to Jacksonville State University next season, recently signing with the Gamecocks. Chelsea’s Alexis Rudolph is the Offensive Player of the Year, as the only player in the area to eclipse 500 kills in the season. Rudolph earned this nod, but it very easily could have gone to a number of players, such as Johnna Cox (Hewitt-Trussville), Bea Wiggins (Spain Park), Julie Roberts (Briarwood) or any of the firstteam setters. Mountain Brook’s Sullivan Lell is this year’s Defensive Player of the Year, as the junior libero finished with 477 digs and returned to the Spartans’ program to command the libero jersey. She is a University of Southern Miss commit and had a season to remember. Hewitt-Trussville’s Andie Freedman is the Coach of the Year after taking her HewittTrussville team to the program’s first state tournament appearance since 1989, missing the final by merely a few points. ► Player of the Year: Millie Burgess, Vestavia Hills ► Offensive Player of the Year: Alexis Rudolph, Chelsea ► Defensive Player of the Year: Sullivan Lell, Mountain Brook ► Coach of the Year: Andie Freedman, Hewitt-Trussville
Above: Claire Ogden (16) and Marley Cowan (5). Photo by David Leong. Left: Millie Burgess (12). Photo by Lindsay Handey.
1ST TEAM
► Outside: Millie Burgess, Vestavia Hills. One of the top all-around players in the area for several years, she put together a great senior season to top it off. ► Outside: Johnna Cox, HewittTrussville. Her efforts led the Huskies to their first state tournament appearance since 1989. She notched 466 kills and 272 digs on the season. ► Outside: Alexis Rudolph, Chelsea. Racking up 511 kills and 298 digs, she surpassed 1,000 kills and 500 digs in a stellar career that has a year left. ► Outside: Bea Wiggins, Spain Park. She helped lead the Jags to the precipice of the state finals after a strong senior season with 487 kills and 353 digs. ► Setter: Noelle Suellentrop, Briarwood. The sophomore had an outstanding season, going for 1,076 assists and 252 digs. ► Setter: Cailyn Kyes, Spain Park. She finished with a sensational 1,144 assists on the year, along with 344 digs. ► Setter: Kayleigh Nguyen, HewittTrussville. She tallied 983 assists to spearhead Hewitt’s historic season. ► Libero: Sullivan Lell, Mountain Brook. The future Division I player finished with 477 digs and led the Spartans’ back row all season. ► Libero: Camdyn Kyes, Spain Park. The freshman has already established herself as a great player, posting 541 digs.
► Libero: Cheyenne Conner, Hoover. She racked up 700 digs in a stellar season. ► Middle: Ja’Niyah Mosley, Spain Park. The senior had 278 kills in another solid campaign. ► Middle: Sydnie Broom, Hoover. The imposing middle blocker had 244 kills and 109 blocks. ► Middle: Marley Cowan, Vestavia Hills. The middle blocker finished with 160 kills and 102 blocks. ► Right side: Mae Noerager, Homewood. The Trinity University commit had 229 kills and surpassed 100 career blocks. ► Right side: Marion Haskell, John Carroll. The Bucknell commit racked up 416 kills in a great season.
► All-around: Julie Roberts, Briarwood. The South Alabama commit had a standout season, going for 436 kills and 258 digs. ► All-around: Abby Tingle, Hoover. She is a versatile player who finished with 310 kills, 70 digs and 63 blocks. ► All-around: Kamryn Coleman, Homewood. This strong all-around player finished with 826 assists, 125 kills and 109 aces.
2ND TEAM
► Outside: Sarah Johnson, Homewood. The senior went for 357 kills. ► Outside: Caroline Whitehurst, Oak Mountain. The senior standout had 321 kills and 247 digs.
► Outside: Aliyah Pooler, Hoover. She had 271 kills and 268 digs on the year. ► Outside: Lucy Comer, Mountain Brook. The sophomore had an impressive year, going for 313 kills and 291 digs. ► Setter: Darby Rhodes, Mountain Brook. The sophomore racked up 808 assists and 230 digs. ► Setter: Isabella Marino, John Carroll. She put forth 616 assists to finish her career with 1,467 assists. ► Setter: Addison Jenkins, Hoover. She had 574 assists and 232 digs. ► Libero: Christiana Callens, HewittTrussville. The leader of the Huskies defense had 544 digs and 158 assists. ► Libero: Sophia Bagley, Chelsea. The senior took advantage of her opportunity and had 359 digs. ► Libero: Lillie Hill, Vestavia Hills. She finished her junior season with 439 digs and 109 assists. ► Middle: Walker Binkley, Homewood. The senior finished with 157 kills and 58 blocks. ► Middle: Clara Crawford, Briarwood. The senior had a great year with 223 kills and 214 digs. ► Middle: Layne Moller, Chelsea. The sophomore had 202 kills. ► Right side: Claire Ogden, Vestavia Hills. The senior had 172 kills and 72 blocks. ► Right side: Adele Moffatt, Mountain Brook. The junior went for 270 kills, playing in multiple hitting positions. ► All-around: Mady Kirkpatrick, John Carroll. The senior six-rotation player had 335 digs and 177 kills. ► All-around: Betsy Smith, Oak Mountain. The all-around player had 318 assists, 168 digs and 114 kills in her senior year. ► All-around: Kate Gordon, Oak Mountain. The versatile senior had 403 assists and 196 digs.
HONORABLE MENTION
► Outside: Leighton Hendley, Briarwood; Helen Morrison, Briarwood; Peyton Harrington, Spain Park; Reese Wolfe, Hewitt-Trussville; Lucrezia Vavassori, Hoover ► Setter: Anna Burnett, Chelsea; Brynn Toenes, Hoover; Kendall Wilkins, Hoover ► Libero: Addison Wood, Homewood; Presley Hull, Hewitt-Trussville; Maria Binder, Hoover; Lilly Kerr, Oak Mountain ► Middle: Anni McCarthy, John Carroll; Loren Purnell, Hewitt-Trussville; Eden Rainbolt, Hoover; Ally Ross, Oak Mountain; Chloe Shumate, Spain Park ► Right side: Emory Congleton, Hoover
VestaviaVoice.com
January 2026 • 15
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16 • January 2026
Vestavia Voice
SPORTS
Caleb Boylan (53). Photos by Lindsay Handey.
Charlie Taaffe (11). Photo by David Leong.
All-South Metro Football Boylan, Taaffe lead Rebels with 1st-team selections By KYLE PARMLEY Each year presents a mixed bag when it comes to individual performances. Some of the top players in the area put forth the great seasons expected of them. Others, however, come out of nowhere and emerge as the new stars of the area. The 2025 high school football season presented exactly that. Brock Bradley, the Spain Park quarterback, earns the Under the Lights All-South Metro Player of the Year award for the second straight year. He completed his senior year with another incredible campaign, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards and leading a young Spain Park team to another impressive season. Parker Floyd earns a share of the Defensive Player of the Year honors for the second straight year, posting yet another 100-tackle season and leading the Hewitt-Trussville defense to another lights-out campaign. Then there are players who ascended to a new level, each capitalizing on the opportunity to become a top player on their team. Homewood quarterback Kaleb Carson and Clay-Chalkville’s Aaron Frye share the Offensive Player of the Year honors, posting tremendous dual-threat seasons to cap off their high school careers. Gage Nasworthy, Briarwood linebacker, will also be one of the Defensive Players of the Year after leading the area in tackles by a wide margin. ► Player of the Year: Brock Bradley, Spain Park ► Offensive Players of the Year: Kaleb Carson, Homewood, and Aaron Frye, Clay-Chalkville ► Defensive Players of the Year: Parker Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville, and Gage Nasworthy, Briarwood ► Coach of the Year: Stuart Floyd, Clay-Chalkville
1ST TEAM OFFENSE
► QB: Kaleb Carson, Homewood; entered his name into the Homewood record books with a big year, throwing for 2,697 yards with 29 touchdowns and rushing for 726 yards with 14 touchdowns. ► QB: Brock Bradley, Spain Park; threw for 2,939 yards and 32 touchdowns to lead the Jags back to the playoffs.
Left: Daniel Richardson (18). Right: Pearson Tucker (54). Photos by David Leong.
► RB: Joshua Woods, Clay-Chalkville; ran for 1,546 yards and 24 touchdowns. ► RB: Marty Myricks, Oak Mountain; one of two area running backs to go over 1,000 yards, scoring 10 touchdowns. ► WR: Corey Barber, Clay-Chalkville; still one of the top receivers in the area despite being the target of opposing defenses, going for 1,130 yards and 13 scores. ► WR: Tomon Felton, Homewood; had 1,160 yards and 10 touchdowns in a breakout season. ► WR: Kena Rego, Spain Park; went for 986 yards and 11 touchdowns in his lone season at Spain Park. ► WR: Dylan Cope, Hewitt-Trussville; posted 905 yards and nine touchdowns as the top Huskies target. ► TE: Nasir Ray, Clay-Chalkville; the “Swiss Army knife” of the Cougars offense, scoring five receiving touchdowns. ► OL: Caleb Boylan, Vestavia Hills; started for three years at center, finishing with a 90% grade this season. ► OL: Carter Fountain, Briarwood; one of the Lions’ leaders, starting for three years and grading out at 95%. ► OL: JT Jones, Clay-Chalkville; one of the top linemen in the state, played in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic. ► OL: Hudson Reed, Spain Park; an Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Classic selection as a leader on the Jags offense. ► OL: Rocco Gray, Mountain Brook; played several different positions for the Spartans and started 37 games over three years. ► ATH: Aaron Frye, Clay-Chalkville; threw for 2,305 yards and 25 touchdowns while rushing for 1,320 yards and 19 touchdowns. ► ATH: Charlie Taaffe, Vestavia Hills;
threw for 1,592 yards and rushed for 827 in just nine games, totaling 29 touchdowns. ► ATH: Jonah Winston, Hoover; one of the most versatile players in the state, rushing for 625 yards and totaling eight touchdowns. ► K: Joseph Del Toro, Clay-Chalkville; converted all of his extra points for the state champions. ► P: Ryan Swetz, John Carroll; averaged a whopping 47 yards per punt. ► ST: Hardy Butler, Homewood; one of the top-ranked long snappers in the state. ► ST: Tyler Kirkland, Chelsea; no bad snaps in four seasons as the starting long snapper.
1ST TEAM DEFENSE
► DL: Nic Gagliano, John Carroll; registered 92 total tackles despite being double-teamed frequently. ► DL: Jovon Pulliam, Hoover; finished with 91 tackles and nine sacks on a loaded defensive line. ► DL: Colton McIntyre, Clay-Chalkville; another disruptive campaign, with 21 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. ► DL: Boyd Cooper, Mountain Brook; finished with 55 tackles and 10 for loss. ► LB: Parker Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville; another triple-digit tackle season, with 103 tackles and 11 for loss. ► LB: Gage Nasworthy, Briarwood; led the area in tackles with 161, including three pass breakups. ► LB: EJ Kerley, Spain Park; reached 100 tackles as the leader of the Jags defense. ► LB: Alex Plaia, John Carroll; finished with 137 tackles and forced two fumbles. ► DB: Jayden Aparicio-Bailey, Oak Mountain; broke up five passes and totaled 40 tackles despite being thrown away from.
► DB: Tate Burdeshaw, Homewood; intercepted three passes and totaled 89 tackles from the safety spot. ► DB: Will Phillips, Hewitt-Trussville; another stellar campaign with 75 tackles. ► DB: Xavier Starks, Clay-Chalkville; finished with 68 tackles and 16 pass breakups. ► ATH: Woogie Crawford, HewittTrussville; had 100 tackles, 20 tackles for loss and eight sacks.
2ND TEAM OFFENSE
► QB: Cayden Hofbauer, Mountain Brook; threw for 1,666 yards and 16 touchdowns while nearly rushing for 1,000 yards, as well. ► QB: Kaleb Freeman, Hoover; threw for 2,130 yards and had 23 total touchdowns. ► RB: Chase Malone, Chelsea; finished with 822 yards and 12 touchdowns while battling injuries. ► RB: Deuce Alston, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with 694 yards and nine touchdowns. ► WR: Luke Stubbs, Vestavia Hills; caught 54 passes for 726 yards and four touchdowns. ► WR: Mason McClure, Spain Park; came on strong this year with 826 yards and nine scores. ► WR: Jeremiah Tabb, Hoover; had 741 yards and eight touchdowns for the Bucs. ► WR: Sam Canale, Briarwood; moved to receiver this year and posted 786 yards. ► TE: J.T. Watts, Homewood; scored a couple of touchdowns. ► OL: Luke Kelly, Oak Mountain; led the Eagles in knockdowns in his third year as a starter. ► OL: Rob Schoenvogel, Mountain Brook; moved over from the defensive line and only allowed two sacks. ► OL: Lamar King, Hoover; played three positions as a versatile piece for the Bucs.
VestaviaVoice.com
January 2026 • 17
SPORTS
Left: Luke Stubbs (14). Middle: Owen Wilbanks (3). Photos by Lindsay Handey. Right: Daniel Richardson (18). Photo by David Leong.
► OL: Brooks Dixon, Chelsea; had a 17-knockdown game and graded at 91% on the year. ► OL: Christian Bennett, Clay-Chalkville; paved the way for a strong running game. ► ATH: Jackson Rankin, John Carroll; scored nine offensive touchdowns and a defensive touchdown and made 71 tackles. ► ATH: CJ Davis, Hewitt-Trussville; scored eight total touchdowns. ► ATH: Morgan Barnes, Chelsea; totaled 10 touchdowns. ► K: James Bryant, Hoover; nailed all 10 field goals, including the 55-yard game-winner against Thompson. ► P: Grant Morrison, Hoover; averaged 40 yards per punt, putting 14 inside the 20-yard line. ► ST: Lincoln Anderson, Hoover; played center and long snapper for the Bucs. ► ST: John Leith, Chelsea; one of the most versatile players in the area, kicking, punting and playing defense for the Hornets.
2ND TEAM DEFENSE
► DL: Ethan Walton, Oak Mountain; had
a huge season with 75 tackles, seven sacks and 17 hurries. ► DL: Miller Lee, Mountain Brook; totaled 86 tackles and seven quarterback pressures. ► DL: Keith Richmond, Clay-Chalkville; had 17 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. ► DL: Justyn Hartley, Hoover; had 75 tackles, 11 for loss and seven sacks. ► LB: William Yoder, Oak Mountain; went for 106 tackles and a couple of forced fumbles. ► LB: Porter Schott, Chelsea; the leader of the Hornets defense, finishing with 126 tackles and six sacks. ► LB: Quinton Lowe, Clay-Chalkville; totaled 115 tackles and 17 for loss. ► LB: Zay Brown, Clay-Chalkville; led the Cougars with 122 tackles, including 20 for loss and seven sacks. ► DB: Hayden Chauvin, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with 61 tackles and led the Huskies’ secondary. ► DB: Deon Callins, Clay-Chalkville; broke up 14 passes. ► DB: Brandt Aho, Briarwood; registered 64 tackles and broke up seven passes. ► DB: John Martin, Homewood;
intercepted two passes and made 54 tackles. ► ATH: Trey Sanders, Hoover; went for 105 tackles.
HONORABLE MENTION
► QB: Charlie Vacarella, Oak Mountain; Jack Floyd, Hewitt-Trussville; Zach Benedict, Hewitt-Trussville; Charles Dedmon, Briarwood. ► RB: Stuart Andrews, Mountain Brook; Davis Griffin, Homewood. ► WR: Kasen Lemons, Oak Mountain; Hunter Purdue, Hoover; David Walden, Homewood; Dane Whitehead, Briarwood. ► TE: Hayes DeCoudres, Homewood. ► OL: Pearson Tucker, Vestavia Hills; Adam Brooks, Chelsea; Hugh Tighe, John Carroll; Hank Freeman, Briarwood; Adrian Derico, Briarwood. ► ATH: James Kelly, Hewitt-Trussville. ► P: Harrison Hebert, Briarwood. ► DL: Rodregus Lambert, Homewood; Jamarion White, Hoover; Baasel Alabsi, Hewitt-Trussville; D’ante Seals, HewittTrussville; Randall Jaquez, Homewood; Paxton Ussery, Vestavia Hills; Garrett
Witherington, Briarwood. ► LB: Daniel Richardson, Vestavia Hills; JC Schwender, Oak Mountain; Miller Crumpton, Mountain Brook; Jarrett Goldsby, Hoover; Antonio Wynn, Hewitt-Trussville; Harrison Malone, Hewitt-Trussville; Jamario Yadao, Clay-Chalkville; Joey Luckianow, Homewood; Parker Lindsey, Homewood; Luke Eldridge, Homewood; Brooks Allred, Briarwood; Briston Hardy, Chelsea. ► DB: Owen Wilbanks, Vestavia Hills; Kennedy Silas, Oak Mountain; Clay Mills, Oak Mountain; Kolby King, Oak Mountain; Caden Ali, Hewitt-Trussville; George French, Homewood; John Griffin, Homewood. Starnes Media's publications cover several communities throughout the Birmingham metro area. Schools included for consideration on this team were Briarwood, Chelsea, Clay-Chalkville, Hewitt-Trussville, Homewood, Hoover, John Carroll, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Vestavia Hills. The team was selected by Starnes Media’s sports department in collaboration with the coaches.
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18 • January 2026
Vestavia Voice
COMMUNITY
Holiday in the Hills Photos by KELLI S. HEWETT Spectators lined the sidewalks of Liberty Park in December for the Holiday in the Hills Parade. The route, new this year, looped around the Great Lawn in The Bray sector and offered wide-open spaces for families to spread out and children to collect candy. The lineup included holiday-themed floats, costumed marchers, local leaders and community groups, as well as music and dance performances. Santa Claus closed the parade from atop a fire truck, waving to children. The community event included face painting, games, bounce houses, food trucks and local vendor booths. The afternoon concluded with a ribbon cutting for the new Great Lawn park space, hosted by city officials and Liberty Park Joint Venture. Santa then posed for family photos and heard Christmas requests.
VestaviaVoice.com
January 2026 • 19
COMMUNITY GET TO KNOW
GET TO KNOW
Birmingham Boys Choir Cahaba Heights CrossFit Executive Director Jeff Caulk enthusiast Jacki Rodgers By APRIL COFFEY Q: Please tell our readers about the Birmingham Boys Choir. When and how was it founded? A: The Birmingham Boys Choir trains young men for life through the power of choral music. We are a nonprofit civic organization founded in 1973 by a small group of parents through a local church. The BBC serves 150 choristers annually, ages Caulk 8-18, from across the greater Birmingham area. Q: What is your favorite thing about being the director of the Birmingham Boys Choir? A: My favorite part of leading the Birmingham Boys Choir is the people! I get to see the transformation that takes place in our choristers, volunteers, concert goers and donors. Q: Who can be a member of the choir? What schools are represented among your singers? How are they selected for the choir? A: We welcome boys from all public, private and homeschool backgrounds and take auditions from second to eighth grade. Auditions are designed to be welcoming and exploratory, focusing on each boy’s potential and passion for music. Our ideal chorister is not defined by musical talent alone but by a willingness to learn, be challenged and belong.
Q: What is the mission of the Birmingham Boys Choir? A: The Birmingham Boys Choir trains young men for life through the power of choral music. Q: I know that the choir is a nonprofit. How can the community support the Birmingham Boys choir? A: Community support is vital to our mission. Attending concerts, sharing our story and partnering with us through donations or sponsorships all make a difference. This year, we are especially grateful for the support of our proud partner, Piddlin Art and Antique, whose generosity helps us offer the gift of music to Birmingham. Q: What accomplishments with the choir are you most proud of? A: Recently we toured through America’s founding cities. Our boys sing the national anthem beautifully, and one particular recording quickly reached over 150,000 views on social media. I’m proud of that achievement, but I’m most proud of the work done that led to that accomplishment in every rehearsal and day in the office. I love working for these boys and families! Read the complete Q and A online at vestaviavoice.com.
By APRIL COFFEY Q: Please tell our readers about yourself. A: I am originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (go Steelers), and my husband is from Minnesota. I attended college in Pittsburgh and taught special education, kindergarten, [and] first and second grade. My husband was working for Bruno Event Team, and we met while he was running the 2010 Women’s Open at Oakmont Country Club. Q: How long have you lived in Cahaba Heights? What is the best thing about living in this community? A: We moved to Hoover, Alabama, in 2014 so my husband could be closer to the Bruno headquarters. A few years later, my husband opened Framework Events, and we moved to Cahaba Heights. Cahaba Heights is straight out of a fairy tale. This small community has big love, and everyone knows everyone. From the Heights Hangout, Deck the Heights, small business[es] and [a] top-notch elementary school, this town has it all! My kids can ride their bikes with friends; they know everyone who works at every gas station, Starbucks or anywhere in the Heights Village. It’s a smalltown feel within Vestavia Hills. Q: How did you become interested in becoming a gym owner? A: I have been doing CrossFit for over 20 years. I started out coaching at my gym in Pittsburgh and always dreamed of owning my own gym. Q: What made you interested in CrossFit
Jacki Rodgers and her husband, Danny. Photo courtesy of Jacki Rodgers.
in particular? How long have you owned a CrossFit location? A: I have competed in the sport and loved watching people do great things! We opened CrossFit Mudtown, located in Cahaba Heights, in 2015 and recently sold to our good friend Casey Stergil in September. We are still members, and I still coach there.
F I N D YO U R H O M E I N
NEW BASEMENT HOMES FROM THE $700K’S MAIN LEVEL PARKING
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Vestavia Voice
20 • January 2026
HUB IN THE HILLS CONTINUED from page 1
“What was once the former Vestavia Hills Elementary School Central building will now be a hub and gathering space for things like local nonprofits and a church plant, which plans to meet at the space on the weekends,” Ammie Akin said. “I like to tell people this campus is really a variety of things offered,” she said. “It will serve families, adults with disabilities, students ministries and the broader community. I think people are very eager to not only be a part of this but also to learn more about it.”
COMMITTED SPACES
So far, three organizations have committed to leasing space at Hub in the Hills — Alabama Game Changers (which serves students with specific learning difficulties), Redemption Hill Church and Unless U (which offers continuing education opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities). But Ammie Akin is careful to not call them tenants. She prefers to refer to them as “mission carriers” who “bring purpose into every space they touch.” Alabama Game Changers Executive Director Shannon Weaver said her organization is so excited to be partnering with the Akins on this project. “Not only will we have a space that helps reduce overhead, and we don’t have to continue passing costs to our clients, but we get to be a part of a project where everyone is focused on serving others,” Weaver said. “That is the heart of Game Changers, so we are very excited to see all of this come to fruition.” Alabama Game Changers helps promote literacy, and it aims to prevent academic failure and eliminate the social and emotional challenges that students with specific learning difficulties face. Initially located in Riverchase, Alabama Game Changers will officially relocate to the Vestavia Hills space in the spring. “When you link up with others that have hearts to serve their community, that is just a winning combination all around,” Weaver said. “We love the mission of Ammie and Will, and everything they do, they do with excellence, so I know we will have a safe and beautiful space that will not only allow us to take care of the community at hand, but…allow us to grow in ways we can help others.” Currently Alabama Game Changers has 26 staff members. A portion of their space at Hub in the Hills will serve as their medical center, which will not be a shared space. On the second floor, they will have an occupational therapy area, as well as evaluation spaces. Weaver said the evaluation spaces will comply with healthy privacy laws, so Alabama Game Changers will be able to share that particular space with Redemption Hill Church, which will meet in the spaces on the weekends. Unless U offers small-group academic, life skills, social skills and fine arts instructional services for adults with developmental disabilities. The organization is based on Chestnut Street near Vestavia Hills Methodist Church
Above: Workers reshape the land in front of the former Vestavia Hills Elementary \ Central to add parking for the new Hub in the Hills nonprofit and community ministry center. Photo courtesy of Hub in the Hills. Left: This is what the view looked like from U.S. 31 prior to construction beginning. This building, most recently used by Impact Family Counseling, was torn down to make way for more parking. Photo by Jon Anderson.
and has a second location for its Post Place program in the Century Park South office complex near Tyler Road. “Hub in the Hills represents possibility for us,” said Lindy Williamson Cleveland, founder and executive director of Unless U. “It is a possibility for more students, more families, more programming and more community connection. We are stepping into a space that was truly designed with inclusion and belonging in mind.” Cleveland said Hub in the Hills is not just additional square footage for Unless U but a reflection of the belief that adults with developmental disabilities deserve state-of-the-art spaces, opportunities and community. Between Unless U and the Post Place program, there are about 50 employees, and Cleveland anticipates an expansion of that number once they move into Hub in the Hills. “We are most excited that the space was designed with our students in mind,” Cleveland said. “The gym, the cafeteria, the adaptive spaces — every part reflects dignity, belonging and joy. It allows us to serve our students with excellence. Our hope is always to be a place where every person is cherished, celebrated and empowered.” Will Akin said 41,000 square feet of the Hub in the Hills building are already leased or committed to ministry partners, and there are approximately 14,000 square feet of exclusive space remaining that can be leased and
approximately 25,000 square feet of space that will be shared by the various groups.
GROWING MOMENTUM
Ammie Akin said as word has spread about Hub in the Hills, momentum has grown with interest from the overall community, as well as potential donors. “I frequently get questions from people asking what we are doing over here with the school and when we plan to open,” she said. “It is exciting for us to see the community curious about what we are doing. This space was such an important part of the Vestavia Hills community for more than three decades, so we know that those who grew up in this area would like to see this space utilized.” The Akins have secured roughly $4.5 million in donations and low-interest impact loans from donors and partners who share the vision for Hub in the Hills. “Our partners share our heart for redemptive impact and want to help ensure we open the campus debt free,” Will Akin said. The project is estimated to cost a total of roughly $8 million.
PHYSICAL CAMPUS CHANGES
“We are really excited to see it all come together and take shape,” Ammie Akin said. “I think visually a lot of the work that has happened over the last few months may feel a little slow, but there has been so much work
going on behind the scenes that may not be visible. It is very exciting to know that soon the interior work will be completed.” One of the first orders of business at the property was to add much-needed parking spaces. “If you grew up in Vestavia, you will likely remember how the parking was always a bit sparse at the school,” Ammie Akin said. “If there was ever a school assembly or something, you would have to park at the Walmart and run across Highway 31. The first thing that officially happened at the property was to haul off 1,600 tons of dirt and add 100 parking spaces, making it 150 parking spaces in total, so while it wasn’t necessarily visually exciting, it was very important.” A 7,400-square-foot building in front of the school that most recently was used by Impact Family Counseling was torn down to make way for the extra parking. The Akins said the site work and parking lot are scheduled to be completed by the end of February and the interior construction will begin in January. Ammie Akin likes to tell people that Hub in the Hills is not just a place; it’s a movement. “We can do so much more and serve more people when we come together,” she said. “Right now, we have a lot of momentum, and we are looking to just keep that momentum growing.” For more information about the project or ways to become involved, visit hubinthehills. org.
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Vestavia Voice
22 • January 2026
Katie Smith, the Vestavia Hills 2025-26 Elementary Teacher of the Year, talks with some of her students as the school day begins. Photos by Jon Anderson.
TEACHERS
CONTINUED from page 1 Some were from big cities, but others were from the farm towns of Saskatchewan, and she had to communicate differently with the two groups to teach them about their bodies. In the process, she learned something about herself. “I liked how it feels to break something down in a different way for somebody who has a different background,” she said. It dawned on her that she might enjoy teaching, so, as a backup plan, she went back to school and got a master’s degree in teaching health and physical education. She moved to Montgomery and got a job as an athletic trainer at Jefferson Davis High School, but in her second year there, the school’s health science teacher left, and the principal offered Peterson the job. “I was in a classroom the next week,” she said. Then Vestavia Hills High School came calling. The school was looking for another athletic trainer and recruited Peterson, and she was hired to do that and teach physical education. After a couple of years at Vestavia, she had an idea. Vestavia Hills had one sports medicine elective class, but she wanted to create a more expansive program for kids, giving them more hands-on training and exposing them to a variety of careers in the field. The program began small and slowly. The first year, she had one course and three classes to teach, but now there are seven courses and three teachers teaching 175 students in nine classes. “It’s grown exponentially,” Peterson said. She believes the school is doing a much better job of preparing students for future careers in medicine. Their seniors do a 12-week clinical internship where they get to work alongside professionals in a wide variety of fields — from surgeons to non-operative physicians, family practice doctors, physical therapists and occupational therapists, she said. “How cool is it that they kind of get to figure out in high school really what they want to do instead of college where they’re spending thousands of dollars” to realize a career isn’t the right fit, she said. Now, she has former students working in some of the same places where her current students go for clinical experiences. “This has been my baby, my pet project — something that was hard for people to understand because we hadn’t had it yet,” she said. “I’m very proud of it.” Peterson, often called “Coach P,” is known for her positive influence on Vestavia’s school culture, collaboration and engagement, Principal Blair Inabinet said. “She is, quite simply, all in for her students, her program and our district,” Inabinet said. “Within the classroom, Ms. Peterson’s impact is transformative. She has exponentially grown our sports medicine program within the health sciences pathway, and this success is directly attributed to her excellence as an educator. “She is a content expert who makes complex, technical material accessible and exciting,” Inabinet said. “Her students are drawn to her energy, humor and care, qualities that make her classroom a space where learning thrives and relationships matter. She embodies what it means to be both a servant leader and a lifelong learner, balancing high expectations with genuine warmth and encouragement.” Peterson became Vestavia Hills High School’s head athletic trainer four years ago. She is also the advisor for the school’s Health Occupations Students of America Future Health Professionals club that focuses on leadership and community service and competes in medical competitions at the state and national level. This past year, the club had four state champions, and three of Peterson’s students placed in the top 20 of their respective categories internationally. Peterson also serves as a career tech team leader on the school’s Vision Team, a member of the school’s Appreciation of Culture and Diversity Cohort and a member of the school district’s strategic planning team (in both 2020 and 2025). In her personal time, she loves hiking and going to concerts and comedy shows. “I love entertainment. I love fun. I love to laugh,” she said.
Hannah Peterson, the Vestavia Hills 2025-26 Secondary Teacher of the Year, does some review work with some of her sports medicine students prior to mid-term exams on Friday.
She’s very honored to be named the Secondary Teacher of the Year and just thrilled with her job, she said. “I get to wake up every day and come to school and teach kids that are excited to learn what I am most passionate about,” she said. “I get to be with kids that are excited to be there — excited to learn — and build meaningful relationships and stretch them out of their comfort zone.”
ELEMENTARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Alabama and went on to get a master’s degree in instructional leadership from the University of West Alabama. She spent her first 10 years teaching in Tuscaloosa, where she taught third, fourth and fifth grades at different times, and she is now in her fifth year at Vestavia Hills Elementary East, all in the fifth grade. Her own fifth grade teacher, Helen Owens, played a special part in her life, she said. “I felt very seen, cared for and heard in her classroom,” Smith said. “She made every day fun. That kind of inspired me, and now that’s what I try to do in my classroom. I love working with kids. I love that each day is different. I love being able to teach kids that learning new things and reading can be fun. I like them being able to realize their potential — that they can rise to any challenge. I like to set the bar high for them…It’s fun to watch the lightbulb go off in them that they’re capable of much more than they imagined.” Cindy Echols, the principal at Vestavia Hills Elementary East, said Smith is a phenomenal teacher and person.
“She is so creative. She thinks outside the box. She makes learning extremely fun for her kids,” Echols said. “They’re motivated to please her because they like her so much — just the relationships she’s built with them. She’s consistent with her expectations and the procedure. She’s just an all-around great teacher.” Smith is always interacting with her students, motivating them to be in charge of their learning, Echols said. One of Smith’s big strengths is collaboration with her fifth grade team, Echols said. She’s good about sharing the good things she does with other teachers and letting them come into her classroom to observe, and she wants to learn from others herself, Echols said. Smith was a Teacher of the Year at her school in Tuscaloosa and brought the same level of excellence to Vestavia Hills, Echols said. Smith has led professional development sessions for other teachers, usually about student engagement and building relationships. “It’s what I’m passionate about,” she said. “I don’t feel like any great learning happens until you build relationships. My No. 1 priority in here at the beginning of the year is to build relationships. I go to soccer games and football games and cheerleading.” She starts each school day with a morning meeting in which students get to share something about themselves, such as their highs for the week or their upcoming weekend plans. Sometimes, Smith asks them silly questions related to odd holidays, and sometimes they play team-building games to teach them how to solve problems and work together in a fun way, before they get into the educational content of the day. “She’s very influential, and people really look up to her and come to her to see the great
things she’s doing,” Echols said. “Parents love her. They absolutely love her. She’s just top notch. … We’re proud to have her.” Smith also was instrumental in helping Vestavia Hills Elementary East start its house system. Students are divided into five “house” groups, each based on a particular positive character trait. “The goal is just to build community throughout the school,” Smith said. “We have different assemblies and house family meetings. It’s all about character education and helping kids feel included and seen and heard at school.” Smith is also on her school’s Hope Institute Committee, which also focuses on character, and a schoolwide Design Team, which is a leadership team that includes a teacher from each grade in the school. “My goal as an educator is just to show teachers that making learning fun doesn’t have to be difficult and that the days go by faster and the years are smoother if you build those relationships and you have a lot of fun with the kids,” she said. “I would just encourage them to look for ways to make their learning engaging so that the kids are excited to be there every day.” Smith said she regularly collaborates with her fifth grade team, planning cross-curricular projects and lessons. “We have a great team.” In her personal life, she likes to go to the gym, travel when she can and hang out with family members. Smith said she was very surprised to be named Elementary Teacher of the Year, not only at the district level, but even at her school. “I’ve only been here for five years,” she said. “There are so many great teachers here. I’m surrounded by excellence every day.”
VestaviaVoice.com
January 2026 • 23
Bill Bradshaw (center) celebrates his retirement alongside the Royal Automotive family.
Bill honored by Buick for being the #1 volume salesperson in Alabama.
Thank You, Bill! We said so long to a legend recently! Bill Bradshaw is riding off into retirement at the age of 86. In a world that’s always changing, Bill has been a constant here at the corner of I-65 and Highway 31 for decades. Nobody knows Buick better than Bill. The first one in the showroom every day, you won’t find a more loyal guy—or one who’s made quite as many people happy on the road. Happy trails, Bill! This place won’t be the same without you.
For every ride there’s Royal. Royal Buick GMC (205) 778-3721 RoyalBuickGMC.net
At the Corner of I-65 and Highway 31 | 3010 Columbiana Road, Vestavia Hills