Find your rhythm
Steel
City Swing fills The Magnolia Ballroom with music and movement
By KARIM SHAMSI-BASHA
Back in 2011 at a Huntsville ballroom, music thundered and couples whirled beneath dim lights. Twenty-two-year-old Ben Dill spotted a beautiful young woman standing quietly to the side. Around her, dancers spun across the floor while laughter rose above the music every time someone missed a step and burst into giggles.
See SWING | page 22
Jamie Harris steps down after 11 years leading Rebels baseball program
By KYLE PARMLEY
Jamie Harris always told his players to leave the jersey in a better place than they found it.
After 11 years as head coach of the Vestavia Hills High School baseball program, Harris believes he did exactly that and decided the time was right to hand it off to someone else.
“It was just time, man,” Harris said. “I’ve been coaching before I got into teaching. It’s almost 30 years doing the same thing and just time to do something else.”
Harris, a Vestavia Hills native who graduated from the school in 1996, retires having coached the program he represented as a player. In that span, he guided the Rebels to seven playoff
appearances and one state championship, the program’s first since legendary coach Sammy Dunn won the last of his nine titles in 2000.
Vestavia Hills head coach Jamie Harris (right) leads his team during the National Anthem before a game in March 2026 in Birmingham. Photo by David Leong.
Terry and Angel Dahlgren dancing at a Steel City Swing class. The group, led by instructors Ben Dill and Katie Morgida, teaches Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, Balboa, Charleston, shag and Peabody and requires no prior dance experience or partner to participate. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley
Summer is here, and particularly in July, we celebrate our country.
This July, our nation marks 250 years since a group of brave men signed their names to a document that changed the world forever. The Declaration of Independence is a piece that has stood the test of time. Plus, this will be the only time we have an excuse to master the word semiquincentennial in our lives.
Sure, we’re not a perfect country. No nation is. But the freedoms we enjoy — the ability to speak our minds, worship as we choose and build a life on our
own terms — are worth celebrating.
So this Fourth of July, fire up the grill, find a good spot for fireworks (check the events section of this paper for some options) and, if you’re like me, tune in to watch Joey Chestnut inhale an inordinate amount of hot dogs in 10 minutes. Thanks for reading! Please send me an email at kparmley@starnesmedia. com with any story ideas.
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CITY
Familiar face takes leadership role in Municipal Court
By JON ANDERSON
Tamara Forbes has been a familiar face around Vestavia Hills Municipal Court for nine years, but she recently stepped into a new role and hopes to make a bigger difference.
Forbes was hired in late April to replace Umang Patel as the municipal court director after Patel was promoted to director of administration and innovation (essentially the city clerk’s role with an expanded scope).
Forbes has been employed with Vestavia Hills Municipal Court since 2017 — a job she took shortly after graduating from the University of Alabama. She started as a part-time administrative assistant but quickly was sent to magistrate school and promoted to a magistrate job the same year. In 2022, she was promoted to magistrate supervisor, overseeing three other magistrates. And now four years later, she’s overseeing the whole department.
Forbes said she never imagined when she started she would one day be court director. “I think all the stars aligned for this to work out.”
She enjoys working in criminal justice and getting to interact with so many people, she said.
“It’s something new every day. You rarely get the same day twice,” she said. “ I enjoy working with the community — the citizens of Vestavia Hills.”
Court magistrates are the ones who work with police detectives and the public to determine if there is probable cause for an arrest warrant in misdemeanor criminal cases, such as menacing or harassing communications. They also process all the traffic tickets. In total, Vestavia Hills Municipal Court handles about 10,000 cases a year, Forbes said.
One of her biggest initial goals is to make it easier for people to get suspended driver’s
licenses reinstated, she said. Currently, if people want to get their license reinstated, they must come into Municipal Court in person. She is working with the city’s software provider to find a way so people can make necessary payments and handle paperwork online.
Patel said it has been a joy to watch Forbes grow in her role.
“When I started here, she had just started as a full-time employee,” Patel said. “She’s worked her way up. She does such a great job. … I think she’s going to do great. She has an incredible work ethic. … She knows the history. She’s been around here longer than I have. She’s a little bit younger, but she has the experience to
be really good at it.”
Forbes has an incredible memory, he said.
“If she told me something about my family, I would believe her before I would believe myself,” Patel said. “She has a knack for paying attention to detail — finding where there may be issues with things or error and [being] able to correct those. She’s been great with judges and attorneys. She’s really learned how to navigate that world and really kind of just ebb and flow with all the personalities that inevitably happen in that court system.”
Forbes grew up in the North Smithfield community just north of Birmingham and graduated from Gardendale High School in 2012. She got
her bachelor’s degree in speech pathology but decided just before graduating that that career was not suited for her.
She now lives in the McCalla community with her husband and 11-month-old daughter. She spends her time doing activities with her daughter and is trying to become a runner, having completed her first 5K in March. She gets up at 4 a.m. and works out in downtown Birmingham four days a week before coming to work at 8 a.m.
“I’m very appreciative I’ve been extended this opportunity to serve as court director,” Forbes said. “I want to continue to serve the city as well as I can.”
Tamara Forbes is the new Municipal Court director for Vestavia Hills. Photo by Jon Anderson.
Mayor’s Minute
By Ashley Curry
I hope you were able to attend this year’s I Love America Night held at Wald Park on Thursday, June 25. This annual event is one of the most-attended events in our city with more than 5,000 people participating. This event is made possible by our Chamber of Commerce and many corporate sponsors.
As we head into our Fourth of July, I hope you will celebrate with your family and enjoy one of America’s best holidays. I also hope you will take time to reflect on the “price” paid for us so that we can enjoy the freedoms that we have. Many have reminded us that freedom is not free, but one of my favorite quotes on freedom came from President Ronald Reagan. He said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected and handed on for them to do the same.”
On a lighter note, July is also National Ice Cream Month. As summer heats up, you may find yourself eating more ice cream, the beloved frozen treat, which has been a source of joy for people of all ages for centuries. Beyond its delightful taste and various flavors, ice cream offers several surprising health benefits that may just make you appreciate it even more. In moderation, enjoying a scoop or two of this frozen delight can contribute to your overall well-being.
In 1984, July was designated National Ice Cream Month. Every year, the third Sunday of the month is National Ice Cream Day. I will certainly celebrate on this designated holiday. I wish everyone an enjoyable Fourth of July, and God bless America!
www.issisandsons.com
Hills.
Hills, with color highlight by Vestavia Voice.
A home under construction in the Brayfield section of Liberty Park in Vestavia Hills. Photo by Jon Anderson.
Mikayla Rominger with her Pre-Owned 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
Putting Luxury Back in Reach
Everybody’s looking to stretch their dollar these days. Mikayla came to the corner of I-65 and Highway 31 looking to get the most for her money. We’re proud to say we delivered for her when we matched her with this pristine Pre-Owned 2022 Mercedes-Benz A-Class that fit her lifestyle and her budget. With all the variety in stock at Royal Pre-Owned Automart, you don’t have to compromise on what’s most important about your next ride: luxury, power, cargo capacity, or anything else. Come see what we’ve got on the lot today. For every new-to-you gem, there’s Royal.
More About Royal Pre-Owned Automart
Royal Pre-Owned Automart is Greater Birmingham’s number one name for selection and value! Located alongside Royal Buick GMC, Royal Volkswagen, and Volvo Cars of Vestavia Hills, Royal Automart has something for every need and every price point. Hardworking trucks, spacious SUVs, efficient sedans, and so much more; when you can’t find the right price anywhere else, it’s got to be right here on Columbiana Road in Vestavia. Stop by for a test drive now!
Vestavia Hills
BUSINESS
Business Happenings
NOW OPEN
The Farm Market opened at Andy’s Garden Center in May to create a centralized location for all of Andy’s offerings after closing its other Vestavia Hills location. The development creates an all-in-one hub where visitors can shop for plants, seasonal offerings, southern produce and specialty items. Andy’s Farm Market is at 3351 Morgan Drive and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
205-824-0233, andysgardencenter.com
COMING SOON
The Well and Co., a dual-concept home décor boutique and specialty coffee shop serving Cala coffee, is set to open at 1425 Montgomery Highway, Suite 119, in Park South Plaza this summer. thewellandcobham.com
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Pat Martin’s BBQ “Life of Fire” television series was awarded bronze in the “Series: Food & Beverage” cate-
gory in the 47th Annual Telly Awards. The series airs on Outdoor Channel and follows Martin, founder of Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint located at 3029 Pump House Road, as he travels across the country to meet people who have mastered the old methods of barbecue and live-fire cooking.
205-715-8999, martinsbbqjoint.com
Marky’s Kitchen, located at 3134 Cahaba Heights Road, has rebranded as Zozo’s Kitchen. The eatery is owned by the Cassimus family, who founded Zoe’s Kitchen. It serves menu items that are familiar to past Zoe’s guests, like roll-ups, the gruben, Greek salad, kabobs and more. Zozo’s also has locations in Homewood and Tuscaloosa. 205-206-9036, zozoskitchen.com
Planet Fitness, located at 700 Montgomery Highway, Suite 138, kicked off its annual high school summer pass program, which allows teens ages 14 to 19 to work out for free at its locations until Aug. 31. Teens can register online and receive access to strength equipment, cardio machines, stretching areas and free fitness training
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from certified trainers. The program allows teens to focus on their mental and physical wellness during the summer break. Participants are also given access to the Planet Fitness mobile app, which provides digital workout content. 205-208-0398, planetfitness.com/summerpass
ANNIVERSARIES
Bistro V, located at 521 Montgomery Highway, recently celebrated its 16th anniversary of serving elevated southern dishes and spirits, from po’boys and shrimp and grits to fried green tomato BLTs. Co-owner Emily Tuttle and her business partner Jeremy Downey worked together at City Hall Diner and wanted to open their business in the same location after the diner closed. Bistro V is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 9 p.m. 205-823-1505, bistro-v.com
Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church started with a community of 40 people worshiping in a trailer in 1973 and is now celebrating its 53rd anniversary. Located at 3775 Crosshaven Drive, the church’s summer Sunday worship schedule is at 8 a.m., 10:15 a.m. and 5 p.m. The worship service can also be streamed online.
205-967-8786, ssechurch.org
CLOSINGS
Red Lobster, located at 1030 Montgomery Highway, permanently closed on May 24 after decades of service to the city. The restaurant opened in Vestavia in the 1970s and was reportedly one of the first Red Lobsters to open in Alabama. Red Lobster filed for bankruptcy in May 2024 and closed about 130 locations across the country. The closest Red Lobster is now at 3535 Roosevelt Blvd. in Trussville. redlobster.com
Darnell’s Fun Stuff: More than a gift shop
By AMASICO RAINER
Most people have a go-to spot for just about everything: a favorite coffee place, a reliable dry cleaner or a mechanic they actually trust. For a whole lot of Vestavia Hills families, Darnell’s Fun Stuff on Morgan Drive has quietly become that place for gifts.
Since 1988, owner Sherri Darnell has been helping people mark life’s biggest moments — new babies, weddings, graduations and birthdays — with something that actually means something. The difference is in the details. Everything at Fun Stuff is personalized, and nearly all of it is done right there in the store, from engraving and monogramming to embroidery, vinyl work and sublimation. Most orders are ready the next day.
It’s the kind of small business that doesn’t need a lot of advertising because its customers do the talking. And after more than three decades in the same community, Sherri Darnell has built something that goes well beyond a gift shop — she’s built relationships.
The story of how Fun Stuff came to be is one of those happy accidents that turned into a calling. Before opening the store, Darnell spent her days designing and sewing custom outfits for her three young daughters. She was good at it — good enough that she eventually began showing her work at wholesale gift markets in Atlanta and Dallas. The exposure opened her eyes to an industry she hadn’t considered, and she never looked back.
What sets Fun Stuff apart from the clickand-ship convenience of online shopping isn’t just the next-day turnaround. It’s what happens when a customer walks through the door with a vague idea and leaves with something they couldn’t have imagined on their own.
“When customers visit our store, ideas often evolve into something even more meaningful and unique,” Darnell said. “Customers are often limited only by their imagination, and our store provides an environment where creativity and personalization can truly flourish.”
That creativity has found a loyal audience in Vestavia Hills, where Darnell has lived for more than 40 years. She raised her three daughters here, watched them go through local schools and built the kind of deep community ties that can’t be manufactured. Today, some of her earliest customers are bringing their own children in to shop.
“One of the greatest joys has been watching generations of families grow up with Fun Stuff,” she said. “We now celebrate graduations, weddings and life’s milestones with families we’ve known for decades.”
That connection to Vestavia Hills City Schools has been just as personal. All three of Darnell’s daughters came up through the system, and now her grandchildren are doing the same. Supporting school fundraisers and community organizations isn’t a marketing strategy; it’s gratitude in action.
After more than 35 years, Darnell is still traveling to gift markets in Atlanta, Dallas, Las Vegas and beyond, chasing new ideas and staying ahead of trends. But when she reflects on what the business has meant, the inventory isn’t what comes to mind.
“It is those relationships, not just the business itself, that have made this journey so rewarding,” she said.
Darnell’s Fun Stuff is located at 3370 Morgan Drive in Rocky Ridge Plaza, Vestavia Hills. The store can be reached at 205-8233688 or darnellsfunstuff@gmail.com. Visit funstuffgifts.com for more information.
A display at Darnell’s Fun Stuff showcases a mix of locally themed merchandise, including Vestavia Hills Rebels gear and Alabama and Auburn college team items. Photo courtesy of Darnell’s Fun Stuff.
Ready for the world
Vestavia Hills High School celebrated its Class of 2026 with a commencement ceremony on May 18, awarding 580 diplomas to graduating senior students at Samford University’s Pete Hanna Center. Photos by David Leong.
SCHOOLHOUSE
Liberty Park Middle School teacher Amy
By APRIL COFFEY
Liberty Park Middle School science teacher
Amy Hollar has been selected as one of only 10 educators nationwide for the prestigious 2026 National STEM Scholar Program, earning national recognition for her commitment to STEM education and innovative teaching.
The scholar program is a unique professional development program providing advanced STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) training, national network building and project support for middle school science teachers nationwide.
The National STEM Scholar Program, a partnership between the National Stem Cell Foundation and The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University, provides advanced professional development for outstanding middle school science teachers from across the country.
Hollar was chosen based on her proposal for a classroom “Challenge Project,” an innovative STEM initiative designed to engage students in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. The program selects educators whose ideas have the potential to make a lasting impact on students during the critical middle school years, when interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics often shapes future educational and career paths.
“STEM matters to me because it gives my students the tools to think critically, solve real problems and see themselves as creators, rather than consumers, of the world around them,” Hollar said. “As a middle school teacher, I see every day how hands-on, meaningful STEM experiences build students’ confidence and encourage
perseverance and curiosity. Being part of this program allows me to grow alongside my students and bring back opportunities that make learning more relevant and engaging.”
Studies show that middle school students who become excited about science are more likely to pursue STEM courses in high school and major in them at the technical and college levels. However, nearly 50% of eighth graders in America lose interest in pursuing the STEM-related subjects increasingly required for 21st-century jobs.
“Supporting teachers who inspire and motivate middle school students at this critical decisionmaking age will directly impact how many choose to pursue the STEM skills essential for living-wage jobs,” said Paula Gristani, CEO of the National Stem Cell Foundation. “By investing in the influential middle school STEM teacher now, we reach thousands of students in classrooms today and far into the future.”
As a member of the 2026 National STEM Scholar class, Hollar participated in an intensive week of advanced STEM training from May 24-30 at Western Kentucky University. During the program, she collaborated with fellow scholars and STEM experts from across the nation while refining her classroom project and developing new strategies to engage students in science and mathematics.
A unique requirement of the program is the responsibility for STEM Scholars to share lessons learned with colleagues in their home schools, districts or states, magnifying impact over multiple classrooms and years. By June 2027, National STEM Scholars will have directly and indirectly impacted more than 229,000 middle school students in the U.S.
Liberty Park Middle School science teacher
Amy Hollar was named one of 10 educators selected nationwide for the 2026 National STEM Scholar Program. Photo courtesy of Tamara Davis, Price Weber.
All-South Metro Softball
Kate Flanagan named Pitcher of the Year
By KYLE PARMLEY
The Birmingham area continues to produce some of the best high school softball anywhere in Alabama, and the 2026 season was no exception. The All-South Metro Team aims to recognize the best players in the area for the season.
Corey Goguts capped off an exceptional career at Hewitt-Trussville, winning Player of the Year honors after another extraordinary year. Vestavia Hills eighth grader Kate Flanagan has burst onto the scene with a great season, while Harper Looney carried Hewitt to another state title, as the duo shares Pitcher of the Year honors.
Homewood’s Madison Letson broke a state record with 16 consecutive at-bats with a hit earlier in the season. She finished the year with an eye-popping .636 average and .688 on-base percentage.
Hewitt-Trussville coach Taylor Burt is Coach of the Year after leading the Huskies to yet another state championship.
► Player of the Year: Corey Goguts, Hewitt-Trussville
► Hitter of the Year: Madison Letson, Homewood
► Pitchers of the Year: Kate Flanagan, Vestavia Hills, and Harper Looney, Hewitt-Trussville
► Coach of the Year: Taylor Burt, Hewitt-Trussville
FIRST TEAM
► Pitcher: Kate Flanagan, Vestavia Hills; the eighth grader dominated area hitters, posting a 21-4 record with a 1.04 earned run average and 174 strikeouts in 141 innings.
► Pitcher: Harper Looney, Hewitt-Trussville; led the Huskies back to a state title, finishing 21-1 with a 2.32 ERA in 141 2/3 innings. She was a dominant 6-0 in the state tournament.
► Pitcher: Jaley Young, Spain Park; went 11-5 with 109 strikeouts and a 2.30 ERA for the Jaguars.
► Catcher: Chloe Wade, Spain Park; batted .396 with 42 runs batted in and eight home runs for the Jaguars.
► Infield: Erin Coleman, Hewitt-Trussville; one of the most productive hitters in the area, batting .407 with 72 RBIs and 72 hits for the Huskies.
► Infield: Addison Ferrell, Vestavia Hills; put together a strong sophomore year, batting .393 with 57 hits and 29 RBIs.
► Infield: Avery Chaney, Hoover; a steady presence at shortstop for the Bucs, batting .394 with 56 hits and 40 RBIs.
► Infield: Julia Willingham, Chelsea; drove in 32 runs and hit .363 with 18 doubles for the Hornets.
► Infield: Reagan Roberts, Spain Park; batted .338 with 52 hits, 29 RBIs and 36 stolen bases.
► Outfield: Reagan Rape, Mountain Brook; put together one of the area’s best offensive seasons, batting .576 with 57 hits, 39 RBIs and 32 stolen bases.
► Outfield: Presley Hull, Hewitt-Trussville; one of the area’s top hitters, batting .475 with 85 hits and 56 RBIs in 59 games.
► Outfield: Madison Letson, Homewood; the area’s Hitter of the Year batted .636 with 77 hits and 65 runs scored.
► Outfield: Emily Williams, John Carroll; finished with a .465 average, 42 RBIs and 11 doubles for the Cavaliers.
► Designated hitter: Corey Goguts, Hewitt-Trussville; the Player of the Year batted .618 with 29 home runs, 91 RBIs and
94 runs scored.
► Designated hitter: Mollie Hanson, Hoover; drove in 45 runs and hit .346 with five home runs for the Bucs.
► Designated hitter: Abby King, Spain Park; batted .389 with 13 home runs and 44 RBIs for the Jaguars.
► Utility: Claire Carver, Hoover; batted .423 with 47 hits, 26 RBIs and 27 stolen bases for the Bucs.
► Utility: Lorelei Beck, Chelsea; drove in 49 runs and hit .374 with eight home runs and 15 doubles for the Hornets.
► Utility: Marian Cummings, Oak Mountain; went 12-7 in the circle with a 2.02 ERA while batting .427 with 32 RBIs at the plate.
SECOND TEAM
► Pitcher: Anne Hope Howell, Homewood; went 16-6 with a 2.74 ERA and 137 strikeouts
in 110 innings for the Patriots.
► Pitcher: Aaliyah Hayes, Hoover; the eighth grader went 10-8 with a 2.75 ERA and 152 strikeouts in 99 1/3 innings.
► Pitcher: Maxie Provost, Spain Park; went 14-5 with a 2.44 ERA for the Jaguars as a freshman.
► Catcher: AT Goldman, Mountain Brook; batted .333 with 20 RBIs and seven doubles for the Spartans.
► Infield: Rylie Redden, Oak Mountain; batted .427 with 41 hits and 19 RBIs for the Eagles.
► Infield: Cate Bruce, Hewitt-Trussville; contributed as a freshman, batting .364 with 43 hits for the Huskies.
► Infield: Molly Shea, Mountain Brook; batted .374 with 40 hits and 27 RBIs for the Spartans.
► Infield: Allie Stuman, Homewood; batted
.366 with 34 hits and 22 RBIs for the Patriots.
► Infield: Kloeanne Smith, Homewood; batted .356 with 36 hits and 20 RBIs for the Patriots.
► Outfield: Ryanne Head, Vestavia Hills; batted .372 with 42 hits and 28 RBIs as a freshman for the Rebels.
► Outfield: Hannah Claire Miller, Hewitt-Trussville; batted .325 with 50 hits for the Huskies, including several clutch hits in the postseason.
► Outfield: Emily Stuman, Homewood; went 10-2 with a 2.20 ERA in the circle and batted .449 at the plate as an eighth grader.
► Outfield: Reagan Lawson, Hoover; batted .348 with 47 hits and 23 stolen bases for the Bucs.
► Designated hitter: Chloe Krackenberger, Hewitt-Trussville; batted .359 with 60 hits and 37 RBIs for the Huskies.
► Designated hitter: Klara Thompson, Spain Park; had 20 stolen bases and six home runs for the Jaguars.
► Designated hitter: Kindal Whistle, John Carroll; batted .477 with 31 hits, 28 RBIs and seven home runs for the Cavaliers.
► Utility: Morgan Minich, Mountain Brook; batted .400 with 30 hits and 32 RBIs for the Spartans.
► Utility: Caroline Brown, Chelsea; batted .384 with 28 hits and four home runs for the Hornets.
► Utility: Lilly Ferguson, Vestavia Hills; pitched and played second base for the Rebels, racking up 53 hits and 41 RBIs.
HONORABLE MENTION
► Pitcher: Caroline Chaney, Hoover; Rachel Reed, Hewitt-Trussville; Maggie Bell, Hewitt-Trussville; Maddie Prevallet, Oak Mountain; Mackenzie Wedell, Mountain Brook; Charlotte Kearse, Mountain Brook.
► Catcher: Ashley Heinemann, Briarwood; Taylor McLaughlin, Hewitt-Trussville.
► Infield: Hannah Walker, Vestavia Hills; Emily Renda, Hewitt-Trussville; Lucy Robinett, Homewood; Peighton Letson, Homewood; Teagan Huey, Spain Park; Addison Green, Oak Mountain; Hallie Kelly, Oak Mountain.
► Outfield: Sadie Wilson, Chelsea; Jordan Weiner, Spain Park; Cheyenne Conner, Hoover; Jakayla Byrd, Homewood.
► Designated hitter: Allie Whitaker, Spain Park; Marianna Murray, Mountain Brook.
► Utility: Sadie Sutton, Chelsea; Anna Kate Shea, Mountain Brook; Larsen Cummings, Briarwood.
Vestavia Hills’ Kate Flanagan.
Vestavia Hills’ Addison Ferrell. Photos by Kyle Parmley.
All-South Metro Baseball
Coach Jamie Harris honored with Career Achievement Award
By KYLE PARMLEY
Another season of high school baseball in the books, and like always, many new players rose to the top and are recognized on the All-South Metro Team. In 2026, Hewitt-Trussville captured its second state championship. Spain Park was one of the best teams in the state over the second half of the season and rode that momentum all the way to a Class 6A runner-up finish.
As for individuals, Hoover’s Will Adams earns Player of the Year honors after a dominant year both on the mound and at the plate for the Bucs. Homewood’s Levi Nickoli capped off a brilliant two-way career with an incredible season with the bat and on the bases to win Hitter of the Year. Hewitt-Trussville’s Jace Riggan takes Pitcher of the Year honors, although he certainly had huge two-way impacts for the state champs.
Jeff Mauldin of Hewitt-Trussville is Coach of the Year after leading his program to the state title. After 11 great years leading the Vestavia Hills program, Jamie Harris recently announced his retirement as well.
► Player of the Year: Will Adams, Hoover
► Hitter of the Year: Levi Nickoli, Homewood
► Pitcher of the Year: Jace Riggan, Hewitt-Trussville
► Coach of the Year: Jeff Mauldin, Hewitt-Trussville
► Career Achievement Award: Jamie Harris, Vestavia Hills
FIRST TEAM
► Pitcher: Jace Riggan, Hewitt-Trussville; went 8-3 with a 1.05 ERA and 80 strikeouts in 60 innings, while hitting for a .422 average with a .530 on-base percentage.
► Pitcher: Cale McIntosh, Hewitt-Trussville; went 8-0 with a 1.25 ERA, striking out 88 batters in 61 2/3 innings while hitting .328 with 24 runs batted in.
► Pitcher: Ben Roberts, Homewood; led the area with 10 wins, posting a 1.77 ERA with 47 strikeouts in 55 1/3 innings.
► Pitcher: Houston Hartsfield, Briarwood; went 8-1 with a 1.81 ERA, striking out 68 batters in 73 2/3 innings.
► Catcher: Evan Taylor, Spain Park; hit .356 with four home runs and 45 RBIs in 40 games for the Jags.
► First base: Gavin Smith, Vestavia Hills; hit .473 with a .652 OBP, five home runs and 29 RBIs.
► Second base: Hudson Mitchell, Hewitt-Trussville; finished with a .386 average,
.491 OBP and 40 RBIs.
► Third base: Connor Greb, Spain Park; hit .393 with a .500 OBP, five home runs and 39 RBIs.
► Shortstop: Jaxson Wood, Hoover; hit .417 with seven home runs, 38 RBIs and 28 stolen bases.
► Infield: Luke Houser, Mountain Brook; hit .360 with seven home runs and 41 RBIs.
► Infield: Rhys Jones, Spain Park; hit .415 with a .517 OBP, finishing with 22 RBIs and 25 stolen bases.
► Outfield: Will Adams, Hoover; the Player of the Year got on base at a .643 clip, slugging 13 home runs with 52 RBIs.
► Outfield: Cohen Walker, Vestavia Hills; hit .429 with 18 stolen bases for the Rebels.
► Outfield: Joe Cross, Spain Park; hit .382 with 36 RBIs and 23 stolen bases.
► Designated hitter: Paul Barnett, Mountain Brook; hit .368 with a .553 OBP, seven home runs and 35 stolen bases.
► Designated hitter: Jamison Barnes, Briarwood; hit .308 with five home runs and 30 RBIs.
► Utility: George Brockwell, Homewood; hit .390 with six home runs and 41 RBIs for the Patriots.
► Utility: Levi Nickoli, Homewood; the Hitter of the Year batted .398 with a .660 OBP and 63 stolen bases while also excelling on the mound.
SECOND TEAM
► Pitcher: Houston Holmes, Spain Park; went 8-1 with a 1.88 ERA, striking out 47 batters in 52 innings.
► Pitcher: Wilson Szymela, Vestavia Hills; posted a 1.89 ERA with 67 strikeouts in
63 innings.
► Pitcher: Hudson Franks, Spain Park; went 6-2 with an 0.89 ERA, striking out 42 batters in 39 2/3 innings.
► Pitcher: Bryant Diddell, Mountain Brook; led the area in strikeouts with 85 punchouts in 60 1/3 innings.
► Catcher: Cooper Mullins, Homewood; hit .295 with 36 RBIs in 41 games for the Patriots.
► First base: Luke Neill, Chelsea; hit .271 with seven home runs and 31 RBIs for the Hornets.
► Second base: Grayson Payne, Hoover; hit .306 with a .425 OBP in 39 games for the Bucs.
► Third base: Ben Heath, Oak Mountain; hit .279 with a .456 OBP and 19 RBIs.
► Shortstop: Charlie Taaffe, Vestavia Hills; hit .371 with a .551 OBP, two home runs and 30 RBIs.
► Infield: Sam Estes, Mountain Brook; hit .365 with seven home runs and 27 RBIs.
► Infield: Bryant Wisdom, Chelsea; hit .347 with four home runs and 21 RBIs as a freshman.
► Outfield: Cross Tonsmeire, Vestavia Hills; hit .398 with a .511 OBP, four home runs and 39 RBIs.
► Outfield: Cooper Sain, Homewood; hit .361 with a .478 OBP, 33 RBIs and 22 stolen bases.
► Outfield: Glavine Tillman, John Carroll; hit .414 with two home runs and 21 RBIs in 35 games.
► Designated hitter: Drew Monte, Hoover; reached base at a .521 clip with 23 RBIs in 34 games.
► Designated hitter: Ivan Hand, Briarwood; hit .375 with six home runs and 39 RBIs while also going 7-3 on the mound.
► Utility: Garrett Barnes, John Carroll; hit .402 with 34 RBIs while also posting a 3-2 record on the mound.
► Utility: Charlie Williamon, Oak Mountain; hit .380 with three home runs and 23 RBIs while contributing on the mound.
HONORABLE MENTION
► Pitcher: Jude Davidson, Mountain Brook; Michael Baguley, Homewood; Cooper Anderson, Vestavia Hills; John Gregory, Mountain Brook; Cooper Morgan, Chelsea; Braden Bentley, John Carroll; Brody Smith, Spain Park; Rylan Clark, Hewitt-Trussville; Grant Hill, Chelsea; Silas Osbourn, Chelsea; Branson Hogan, Oak Mountain; Jacob Towe, John Carroll; Robbie Paulsen, Briarwood.
► Catcher: Sam Prier, Oak Mountain; Jacob Harris, Vestavia Hills; Jackson Cramer, John Carroll; Wes Hardy, Hewitt-Trussville.
► Infield: Xander Hughes, Oak Mountain; James Eady, Homewood; Luke Channell, Oak Mountain; Dallas Huggins, John Carroll; Avery Floyd, Chelsea; Max Crowder, Hoover; Luke Snowden, Vestavia Hills; Michael Johnson, Spain Park; Blake Bales, Hewitt-Trussville.
► Outfield: Charles Dedmon, Briarwood; Koal Duckett, Hewitt-Trussville; Jack Bland, Homewood; Jack Crosby, Mountain Brook; Aiden Craven, Chelsea; Will Siegel, Homewood; Sawyer Jackson, Hewitt-Trussville; Cam Graham, John Carroll.
► Designated hitter: Slade Bounds, Spain Park; Andrew Walker, Hewitt-Trussville; Noah Crosby, Mountain Brook; Tyler Hohne, John Carroll; Taylor Alfano, Hewitt-Trussville; Haines Bridges, Vestavia Hills; Josh Vincent, Oak Mountain.
Vestavia Hills head
coach Jamie Harris.
Photo by Shawn Bowles.
Vestavia Hills’ Gavin Smith. Photos by David Leong.
Vestavia Hills’ Cohen Walker.
Where to enjoy fireworks and patriotic activities
By LAUREN H. DOWDLE
Several local events are going all out this year to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. From dazzling fireworks shows and children’s activities to historical reenactments and live music, there will be something for all ages to enjoy this Independence Day. Here are some of the family-friendly festivities where residents can celebrate the Fourth of July.
SWEET HOME 250
Enjoy a patriotic event for the whole family at the two-day Sweet Home 250 celebration at American Village in Montevallo. From live music to historical reenactments, Sweet Home 250 will bring the country’s past to life July 3-4.
The event will feature 18 Alabama musical artists across both days, including Taylor Hicks, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Chuck Leavell, Myles Morgan, Roman Street, Act of Congress and many more. A lineup of acclaimed authors, historians and storytellers will also share more than 100 stories that helped shape the nation, including presentations by James Spann (Saturday only), Theatre Huntsville, Rick Burgess, Jeff Speegle and more.
Inside the Portrait Gallery of Independence Hall, visitors will also be able to check out a special exhibition featuring the winners of the statewide Expressions of Freedom painting contest, works inspired by the 250th anniversary, a commemorative quilt, artwork on loan from museums and original pieces from the American Village collection.
There will be children’s activities such as a stunt dog show, up-close encounters with birds, a puppet show with patriotic storytelling, an interactive reenactment of Paul Revere’s ride and colonial games. Attendees will also have
the opportunity to enjoy celebrity chef demos, enter food-eating contests, see historical interpretations and watch fireworks. For more information or to purchase tickets to this 250th celebration, visit SweetHome250.com.
THUNDER ON THE MOUNTAIN
As the state’s largest fireworks show, Thunder on the Mountain will light up the sky around Birmingham on July 4 starting at 9 p.m. The illuminating sights can be seen from multiple vantage points across Birmingham and Homewood — or directly at Vulcan Park and
Museum on Red Mountain.
Parking at Red Mountain will be available, but attendees are encouraged to arrive early or use a ride-share option. Some roads near Vulcan Park and Museum will close early to prepare for the show. Several local radio stations will be synced to the show’s playlist to pair the patriotic tunes to the visual celebration.
FESTIVAL IN DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD
From rides to live music, there will be something for the whole family at the Fourth of July
festival in downtown Homewood. Hosted by the city of Homewood and the Homewood Parks and Recreation Board, the festival will have inflatables and rides in the streets, along with a DJ. Activities will end at the beginning of the Thunder on the Mountain show at 9 p.m. from Vulcan Park, but the location is the perfect viewing spot to stay and enjoy the fireworks. The festival will open at 5 p.m. and is free to enter. To ride or play on the attractions, an unlimited wristband is $10, which will be available for purchase near the intersection of 18th Street South and 29th Avenue South.
People take in Thunder on the Mountain in July 2024. Staff photo.
Michelle’s Magical Poodles bring the circus to the library
By KELLI S. HEWETT
Before she was dazzling audiences with backflipping poodles, Decatur native Michelle Harrell of Michelle’s Magical Poodles had worked as a successful film location scout who had run off to Key West to read tarot cards and rethink her life.
That winding road led her from court stenographer to living statue street performer, and finally to canine trainer and performance crowd-pleaser.
Harrell returns to Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest on Thursday, July 16, for two free shows at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
The poodles are among the most popular library guests of the year, and crowds show up early and pack out the performance space.
Harrell, a lifelong animal lover, brings a trio of highly trained poodles to the library stage for a fast-moving blend of comedy, choreography and classic circus-style dog tricks.
She describes her show, featuring dogs Tallulah Jane, Sevyn and Shae, as a balance of education and entertainment, a performance built to dazzle kids while quietly teaching them what it really takes to care for a pet responsibly.
Between routines to music — jumping through hoops and balancing on Harrell’s back before big, crowd-pleasing finales — she weaves in gentle, age-appropriate reminders about feeding, training and committing to an animal for the long haul.
Seniors, parents and even dog-loving adults without kids often slip into the crowd, drawn by the rare chance to see well-trained performers up close.
“Dogs are man’s best friend,” Harrell said. “It’s the companionship and the communication, and then to transfer that to a language that
speaks to them, as far as to train them to do something fun and entertain, is really something special.”
Her secret? “Really good treats,” she said.
Harrell has now spent 25 years performing with her dogs, taking her act from county fairs and Renaissance festivals to theater stages and library tours across the Southeast and beyond.
June and July are dedicated almost entirely to libraries, she said, and Vestavia Hills is one of her favorite stops. She also has other stops
around the metro area this month, including Homewood, Clay and Mountain Brook, among others.
“The dogs are extraordinary,” said Bradie Fowler, of the Library in the Forest. “They will dance and leap right into your heart. There is a mutual respect between Michelle and her dogs that makes what they do so magical. We are lucky to have Michelle and her poodles come share their talent and passion with us year after year.”
Michelle’s Magical Poodles star Michelle Harrell and two of her talented canines. Photo courtesy of Michelle Harrell.
Three of the stars of Michelle’s Magical Poodles. Photo courtesy of Michelle Harrell.
EVENTS
Save the Date
FARMER’S MARKET
► Where: Scout Square on U.S. 31
► When: Every Wednesday through Sept. 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
► Details: This is a weekly farmer’s market that offers fresh produce from local farmers, baked goods and more. The market is a mission of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, with funds from the market used to supply their food pantry with fresh fruit and vegetables.
► Cost: Free admission
► Web: business.vestaviahills.org/ events
BACK TO SCHOOL TAX HOLIDAY
► Where: Various businesses throughout Vestavia
► When: July 17-19
► Details: This gives shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain back to school items free of sales tax.
► Web: vhal.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.
HENNA ART
► Where: Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest, 1221 Montgomery Highway
► When: July 21, 5:30-7 p.m.
► Details: Learn from a professional artist how to apply a Henna design to skin. Registration is required. To register, contact Daniel at 205-9783683. Pizza will be served. This event is for teens grades 6-12.
► Cost: Free
► Web: vestavialibrary.org
PICKLEBALL PALOOZA
► Where: The Picklr, 1031 Montgomery Highway
► When: July 26
► Details: Located at The Picklr, this event will benefit Red Mountain Grace.
► Web: alabamapickleballtournaments. com
In
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Dill had been obsessed with swing dancing since middle school while growing up in Auburn, Alabama. Long before adulthood arrived with careers, bills and responsibilities, he had already fallen deeply into the joyful chaos of spinning dancers, blaring big band jazz and crowded wooden dance floors vibrating beneath fast-moving feet.
On that cool autumn evening, he noticed Katie Morgida. He gathered his courage, walked over and asked if she wanted to dance.
She said no.
“I was too shy and honestly a little nervous,” Morgida said with a laugh. “At the same time, I found his enthusiasm inspiring.”
Thirty minutes later, Morgida gathered her own courage and approached Dill. This time, they danced.
The band played “In the Mood” by Glenn Miller as the two stepped awkwardly into rhythm together for the first time. After the song ended, they kept talking for two hours. A few years later, they were married.
Today, more than a decade later, swing dancing remains woven deeply into their lives and marriage.
“We’ve loved teaching together for more than 10 years now,” Dill said. “I have this uncontrollable urge to move whenever I hear a beat, and with Katie, we love giving our students an experience they’ll remember.”
The couple now teaches through Steel City Swing, which meets every Wednesday evening at The Magnolia Ballroom in Vestavia Hills. On dance nights, the ballroom fills with beginners nervously gripping water bottles, experienced dancers greeting old friends and music echoing warmly through the room.
While Dill works professionally as a software engineer and Morgida holds a doctorate in occupational therapy, dance offers something entirely different from the pressure of their careers.
“Dancing is an incredible way to meet people. We rotate partners constantly during lessons, so everyone gets the chance to dance with different people and make new friends.
BEN DILL
”“It’s something we genuinely enjoy together,” Morgida said. “I especially love Lindy Hop because there’s so much room
people,” Dill explained. “We rotate partners constantly during lessons, so everyone gets
together for years.”
effortlessly through underarm turns, swing outs and fast footwork across the polished
In one corner, the couple Mike Cowie and Michelle Dowd moved smoothly through the crowd.
“We’ve been doing this for two years now, and we absolutely love it,” Cowie said during a break between songs. “It’s something we can share together as a couple, and it’s incredibly social. We have met so many fascinating people.”
At the end of class, the Dahlgren family high-fived each other.
“We loved this and enjoyed learning something new,” Angel Dahlgren said. “Terry SWING
Nearby stood 31-year-old Daniel Robinson,
ballroom floor.
Ben Dill and Katie Morgida demonstrate an under-arm turn with Steel City Swing at The Magnolia Ballroom in Vestavia Hills. Photos by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Two dancers enjoy swing dancing class with Steel City Swing at The Magnolia Ballroom.
CONTINUED from page 1
Harris grew up watching Dunn build one of the most decorated high school baseball programs in Alabama history, and when he was hired in June 2015, he was acutely aware of the legacy he was inheriting.
“When I was younger, kids grew up dreaming of playing Vestavia baseball,” Harris said at the time of his hiring. “I want to carry on that tradition. We’re never going to let that well run dry.”
He made good on that promise. The 2023 state title ended a 23-year drought for the program, and it came with a layer of personal significance that Harris said is difficult to put into words. His son Jackson served as a captain on that championship team, a group of young men Harris said he had known since they were in T-ball.
“Being the only other guy that’s won a state championship there, and to do it at my alma mater, and to do it with my son being a captain on that team,” Harris said. “Gosh, what a special thing that was, just to experience that.”
The primary driver of his decision to step away, Harris said, was a desire to be present for his two sons as they play baseball at the next level. Jackson recently completed his third year at Samford, and younger son Jacob, who just graduated from Vestavia Hills High School, will be playing at Northwest-Shoals Community College next year.
“I don’t want to miss it. I don’t get those days back,” Harris said. “And Vestavia baseball deserves to have a guy that wants to be there every day, every moment, working his tail off to make that program the best that it can be. If I’m wanting to be at my kids’ games, that’s not fair to Vestavia, and Vestavia deserves more than that.”
Harris was emphatic that his departure car ries no hard feelings in any direction.
“I want people to know that I didn’t leave
because anything went wrong,” he said. “I’m leaving because I love the program enough to know that if I’m not just chomping at the bit to be out there, and I’m missing my kids play, then somebody else needs to do it. I think too highly of the program. So, nothing went wrong. I’m not being forced out. There’s no bitterness or anything.”
Beyond the championship, Harris pointed to a number he said means more to him than any win-loss record: 50 players placed in college baseball over his 11 seasons, with a few going on to play at the professional level.
“That’s pretty special to see those kids accomplish their goals,” Harris said. “To average five a year, I feel like that’s a pretty dang
Harris spent 25 years in public education and said he has been coaching in some capacity
for close to 28 years, dating back to his days coaching American Legion ball before he ever set foot in a classroom. He said the job gave him the highest highs and lowest lows of his professional life, and he has no regrets.
“I poured everything I could into it,” Harris said. “I know we’re in a really good place, and we left it better than we found it. That was my mission.”
Harris lives two miles from the school and said he has no plans to leave the community his family has called home for generations.
“I ain’t going anywhere,” he said. “It’s just time for somebody else to lead the charge.”
As for the future of the program, Wes Kelley, a longtime assistant alongside Harris, is set to take over as head coach.
Visit VestaviaVoice.com for more on the next chapter for Rebels baseball.
HARRIS
The Rebels celebrate with the Class 7A state trophy after Vestavia Hills defeated Central-Phenix City 4-1 to claim the state baseball title for the first time since 2000, at Jacksonville State University’s Rudy Abbott Field in May 2023. Staff photo.
Vestavia Hills’ Jackson Harris (6) hugs his dad and head coach Jamie Harris after winning the state championship in May 2023. Staff photo.
