By EMILY REED
By KELLI S. HEWETT
Police Capt. Joel Gaston finishes elite
An aerial view of the convergence of U.S. 31 and Columbiana Road in Vestavia Hills. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
Photo by David Leong.
The University of Alabama Where Legends Are Made
At e University of Alabama, you’ll nd more than a college education — you’ll nd a path to academic excellence, leadership and the foundation to achieve your highest potential.
Recognized as one of America’s Top Colleges 2026 by Forbes and ranked among the top 2.4% of global universities by the Center for World University Rankings, UA continues to attract some of the most talented students from across the country and around the world. UA is home to 1,260 National Merit Scholars currently enrolled, and our alumni have earned some of the nation’s highest honors, including 69 Goldwater Scholars, 17 Rhodes Scholars, 16 Truman Scholars and 45 Hollings Scholars. In Alabama, more students chose to attend UA in 2025 than any other school in the state. is re ects both the quality of the education o ered and the University’s commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders, innovators and professionals right here at home.
TOP-RANKED ACADEMICS
At UA, you can choose from more than 100 majors in eight undergraduate degree-granting colleges and schools. Many programs rank among the best in the nation, including business, nursing and public relations. If none of the traditional majors are quite right, you can forge your own
path through New College, which allows highly motivated students to customize their own course of study. Additionally, through the Accelerated Master’s Program and the STEM and CREATE Paths to the MBA, high-achieving UA students can work toward a graduate degree while pursuing an undergraduate degree at the same time.
As an R1 research institution, UA o ers students access to cutting-edge labs, awardwinning faculty and hands-on research experiences.
Our competition teams, including the robotic mining team Alabama Astrobotics and the Alabama Forensic Council — the University’s speech and debate team — consistently rank rst in national competitions.
UNRIVALED STUDENT LIFE
Beyond the classroom, students build leadership skills, discover new passions, and make connections through more than 650 student organizations. Over half of our students nd leadership opportunities within these groups, which span a range of interests including academic, social, religious, political, arts and sports. Additionally, 39% of students are involved in UA’s Greek system — one of the largest in the country. You can learn about all of UA’s organizations at Get On Board Day at the
beginning of each fall and spring semester. And if there isn’t an organization to match your interests, UA encourages you to start your own.
PREPARED
TO SUCCEED
UA students have access to a range of career-building resources, setting them up for success in their future careers. e UA Career Center hosts numerous career fairs each year, while academic colleges organize their own specialized networking events that connect students with alumni and future employers. When students graduate from UA, they join a global network of 260,000 alumni. Several Young Alumni groups are active across the country to help you make the transition from college student to young professional, as well. From internships and job placements to mentorship and professional development, UA alumni can help open doors in every eld and industry.
APPLY TODAY
UA applications are open for the 2026 entry terms. Students who apply by December 5 will receive priority consideration for admission. As part of our commitment to investing in the state’s future leaders, Alabama residents can apply for free through the UA Undergraduate Application for the spring, summer or fall 2026 entry terms.
Providing Advice & Guidance for
ABOUT US
Editor’s Note By Jon Anderson
Patriotism. According to Webster’s dictionary, it means “love of one's country; the passion which aims to serve one's country, either in defending it from invasion, or protecting its rights and maintaining its laws and institutions in vigor and purity.”
But when you ask different people what patriotism means to them, you sometimes get different answers. That’s understandable because people have different beliefs about what rights people ought to have and what rights they don’t have. Those different beliefs often are the subject of controversial cases that go before the U.S. Supreme Court.
We rely on our Constitution to be the guiding document for the principles by
Editorial Policy
which we live together as a people. The goals outlined in the preamble talk about establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for our defense, promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty.
In honor of Veterans Day, we took some time to ask people around the city what patriotism means to them. hope you enjoy reading Kelli Hewett’s cover story and will take some time to reflect on what it means to you.
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Southern gateway called ‘first domino’ for US 31 renewal
By JON ANDERSON
A lot of Vestavia Hills residents for years have bemoaned the appearance of the southern gateway to the city along U.S. 31, but a recent $1.2 million decision by the Vestavia Hills City Council takes another step to address that.
The City Council on Oct. 13 approved a nearly $1.2 million contract with Gillespie Construction for the company to build two new gateway signs welcoming people to the city, add new landscaping on both sides of U.S. 31 and in the median and improve stormwater drainage to help disperse rainwater more effectively.
Some residents criticized the expenditure, saying the city could have addressed what they consider more pressing needs like street and stormwater repairs in other areas, new sidewalks and air conditioning upgrades in Vestavia Hills City Schools.
But the mayor, other City Council members and City Manager Jeff Downes defended the expenditure, saying it falls in line with goals identified in the city’s strategic planning sessions.
One of the signs to be installed is much more than a typical welcome sign. Fifteen-foot-tall letters will spell out Vestavia Hills, stretching out as a 130-foot-long monument sign parallel with U.S. 31 near the Sybil Temple replica at Interstate 65, Downes said.
The Alabama Department of Transportation didn’t want the sign on its right of way, so Steve Issis, the owner of Issis Furniture, agreed to give the city an easement for the sign on the former site of his store there. In return, the city is rin in in fill dirt ehind the new wall sign to support the wall and provide a better base for future development on the property, Downes said.
Amazing
CITY happens
About 100 feet of the chain link fence behind the current temple replica is proposed to be removed and replaced with a black vinyl fence, but the temple replica itself will remain with new lettering and landscaping designed to complement the new signs, Downes said.
Across U.S. 31, a second, smaller sign will be installed in front of the Chevron gasoline station that aces tra fic comin o nterstate orth. That sign will help to screen the gasoline station and be supplemented with new landscaping to beautify the area, Downes said.
The city also is working with ALDOT on ideas to improve the landscaping in the U.S. 31
When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries and innovations happening today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures. And it benefits not only the patients and families who come to Children’s of Alabama, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
right of way which ALDOT controls, he said.
Additionally, some of the stormwater drainage structures on ALDOT right of way in that area are broken, so this project will get water flowin where it’s supposed to o in a more direct manner and hopefully keep it from pooling on the roadway, said Lori Beth Kearley, the city’s public works director. Downes said this project is not being done in lieu of other stormwater, sidewalk or paving projects that were planned. It’s being done in addition to those projects because the city has een doin so well financially the past ei ht years, he said. Growing sales tax revenues have
We are here in your neighborhood at Vestavia Pediatrics. Call 205-978-3200 to schedule an appointment.
made it possible, he said.
Councilwoman Kimberly Cook said it’s a very intentional, well-thought-out project, and Mayor Ashley Curry said it’s a positive move.
“As a 40-year resident on that side of town, this was sorely needed,” Curry said. “If it serves to further the development of lower 31, it’s well worth the investment.”
Councilman Paul Head said an economic development study from 15 years ago projected it would take billions of dollars to redevelop that corridor, and he believes the gateway project is ust the first domino to all” to rin about transformation there.
This is the proposed look of a new southern gateway sign along U.S. 31 near Interstate 65 in Vestavia Hills. Rendering courtesy of city of Vestavia Hills.
This month Vestavia Hills celebrates its 75th anniversary. In November of 1950, a group of about 600 residents living atop Shades Mountain voted to create the town of Vestavia Hills. From this humble beginning we have grown to a geographic area of about 20 square miles and a population of approximately 39,000 residents.
Mayor’s Minute
By Ashley Curry
As mentioned in the annual state-of-the -city address, Vestavia Hills offers a quality of life for our residents that is second to none. We have excellent parks and recreational facilities, an excellent school system e cellent police and fire services and a robust housing market. We have become a place that people want to call home.
For Veterans Day this year, our event will be held on Monday, Nov. 10 at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center. From p.m. to 5 p.m., you can tour the Health Resources Fair, where valuable information and services for veterans and their families will be available. At p.m., join us for a special patriotic program honoring veterans from every branch of service. Our featured guest speaker will be Commissioner Jeff Newton of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs. We
hope you will join us as we come together as a community to celebrate and honor those who have served our country.
There are many activities planned for November and December. Some of the major events are:
Deck the Heights: The Heights Village, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2-7 p.m. Tree Lighting Cere mony: City Hall Complex, Thursday, Nov. 20, p.m.
All is Bright: Vestavia City Center, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 6-8 p.m. Holiday Parade: Liberty Park, Sunday, Dec. 7, p.m.
For Thanksgiving this year, recommend that we thank our predecessors (citizens and elected o ficials or our city that was uilt on core values from our city logo. Those core values are unity, prosperity and family. We are unified” in the pursuit o e cellence in our schools our first responders and other services offered by the city. We have embraced prosperity” y strate ic plannin stron financial mana ements and e ficient overnance. e have em raced amily” with the quality of life provided to our citizens. For this, am truly thankful.
CITY
Gaston graduates: Police captain finishes elite leadership trainin
By JON ANDERSON
Vestavia Hills police Capt. Joel Gaston has completed the FBI National Academy’s leadership program, a 10-week training held at the U.S. Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia.
From late June to early September, Gaston received instruction on a variety of topics, includin leadership communication o ficer wellness and resilience, leading at-risk employees, media communication and hostage negotiation.
The FBI National Academy is considered an elite opportunity or law en orcement o ficers around the world, with only the top 1% of law en orcement o ficials accepted.
Participants are allowed to choose most of their curriculum from 100 or so class options.
Gaston, who has more than 30 years in law enforcement, said he was looking to use the opportunity as a chance to increase his knowledge in areas outside of his normal wheelhouse.
He’s worked extensively in patrol, forensic science and narcotics and wanted to grow as a mana er and leader to etter help other o ficers, he said.
he class on o ficer wellness and resilience was eneficial in learnin how to help o ficers maintain good health and mindsets so they’re well-prepared to handle critical incidents, he said.
And the class on leading at-risk employees ave tips on helpin o ficers once they e perience a crisis, such as alcoholism, addiction, divorce, the death of a spouse or bankruptcy — anything that could impact job performance or attitude, he said.
Participants in the academy also are re uired to o throu h fitness trainin and challenges throughout their stay and at the end o the wee period o throu h a fitness challenge known as the “Yellow Brick Road,” a 6.1-mile run through a hilly, wooded trail built by the U.S. Marines.
Along the way, the participants must climb over walls, run through creeks, jump through simulated windows, scale rock faces with ropes, crawl under barbed wire in muddy water, maneuver across a cargo net and other obstacles.
The academy experience as a whole was awesome, Gaston said.
“It was bigger and better than anyone could have ever described or prepared me for,” he said. “In civilian law enforcement, that’s probably the highest honor that you can achieve — to be able to attend and graduate the National Academy. am beyond blessed to be able to say that had an opportunity to even attend,
so I’m very thankful.”
Gaston grew up in Homewood and graduated from Homewood High School in 1993.
He spent six years in the U.S. Army, serving in
military police before transitioning to civilian law enforcement in 1999. He spent a couple of years with the University of Alabama at Birmingham Police Department and came to the Vestavia Hills Police Department in 2002.
e wor ed as a patrol o ficer until and then had a stint as an evidence technician before being promoted to patrol sergeant in 2013.
A year or two later, he led the forensic science division before being promoted to patrol lieutenant. He moved to administration in 2021, narcotics in 2023 and then was promoted to captain over the patrol division in where he oversees o ficers.
estavia ills has now had at least five
o ficers complete the ational cademy, including former Chief Doug Jefferson decades ago, Brian Gilham in 2014, Johnny Evans in 2017, Shane Ware (the current chief) in 2019 and now Gaston this year.
Mayor Ashley Curry, the former special a ent in char e o the ’s irmin ham field o fice also once served as a counselor at the FBI National Academy, Ware said.
One of the best things about the academy is the opportunity to build connections with other law en orcement o ficers across the country and around the world, Ware said. he challen es that law en orcement o ficers face usually are not isolated issues, so building a network of peers to call for advice or help is invaluable, Ware said. They may have skill sets that help solve a case or have experience with vendors of certain law enforcement products or technology that can enefit estavia ills he said.
Gaston said he, too, built some good connections with people at the academy, includin an o ficer rom the an ntonio olice Department. The two of them both celebrated their 50th birthday while at the academy and became very good friends, he said.
Above: Vestavia Hills police Capt. Joel Gaston, sixth from right, with fellow participants at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, during fitness training in the summer of 2025.
Left: Capt. Joel Gaston at his graduation. Photos courtesy of Joel Gaston.
ANNUAL ENROLLMENT IS NOW OPEN!
Blue work for you. Our local advisors are here with the trusted advice you need. Call 1-855-978-5241 (TTY 711)2 or visit BCBSALMedicare.com/Blue15 to attend an online or in-person meeting.3
Discover the bene ts of our all-in-one Blue Advantage® (PPO) plans, designed to ensure you get the care you need while keeping your costs low. With Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, you’ll enjoy:
• A partner dedicated to providing an easy healthcare experience — in 2025, our Blue Advantage plans received 5 stars for Member Experience with Health Plan and 4 stars for Overall Star Rating.1
• Access to 90% of doctors and 100% of hospitals statewide. 1
Blue Advantage is a PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Blue Advantage (PPO) depends on contract renewal. Blue Advantage (PPO) is provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
1 Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5 star rating system. Source: BCBSALMedicare.com/whybcbsal
2 We are available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. From October 1 to March 31, the hours of operation are Monday –Sunday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. You may be required to leave a message for calls made after hours, weekends and holidays. Calls will be returned the next business day.
3 For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call 1-888-246-7023 (TTY 711).
H0104_PRNT26_M
SCHOOLHOUSE
In the Classroom
Vestavia Hills High School senior Cade Smith
By APRIL COFFEY
Q: What is your favor ite thing about attending VHHS and why?
A: have always had great teachers and friends. Some of my best friends and even future potential college roommates met in Mrs. McGriff’s kindergarten class at Vestavia West in elementary school. That is what Vestavia is a out to me rew up here, and the people that mean the most to me and have impacted my future are also here.
Q: What extracurricular activities are you involved in at school? What activities do you take part in outside of school?
A: Throughout my high school career, have been a part of the football team, wrestling team, FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), Spikeball Club, Rise Teams, The Youth Leadership Committee and a Rebel Mentor. Outside of school, have been a part of both the Full Count and Flying Squirrels
recreation baseball teams, involved in Mountain Brook Community Church and Bible studies.
Q: Where do you plan to attend college in the fall of 2026 and why? What do you plan to major in?
A: was thankful to get the opportunity to participate in the Auburn First Program and will be attending Auburn University in the fall of 2026. love Auburn even though they aren't my team (I am more of an LSU fan). grew up at Auburn. Both of my parents and my very special Great Aunt Pam went there, and they have all raised me there and shown me why it is so special to go to Auburn. plan to major in business and real estate.
Q: What is your favorite subject and why?
A: History, because it has always been the subject have scored the highest in and that is because actually enjoy learning about it.
ACCOLADES
By APRIL COFFEY
Vestavia Hills High School has earned statewide distinction with students named ational erit semifinalists the hi hest total from any Alabama school this year and the school’s largest showing since 2006.
The 71st annual National Merit list, released this fall, includes about 16,000 students nationwide who represent the top of U.S. high school seniors.
VHHS honorees are Mina Hu, Lucy Manary, Lily Xie, Judy Yamani, Mariam Malik, Vivian Shi, Ayden Yother, Evelyn Kutny, Zara McKelvey, Tina Lou, Tina Gao, Syed Andrabi, Lance Wilkerson, Vaughan Milliman, John Wimberly, Ryaan Singh, Aditya Sheelavant, Eric Wang, Daniel McMurray, Jaymin Bae, Cooper Prier, Jack Hugunine, Pratul Danasekar
and Jeffrey Zhao.
This is the third time in the past decade that has produced more than semifinalists in a single year.
he students ualified ased on their perormance on the . s semifinalists they are now eligible to compete for approximately $26 million in scholarships to be awarded next spring.
“It is an honor to congratulate this year’s National Merit semifinalists for the way they’ve approached learnin with consistency, curiosity and perseverance,” said Principal lair na inet. heir ourney reflects our core values of respect, excellence and service, reminding us that success grows out of daily choices and steady effort. This recognition is a milestone ut even more it is proo o the power of process and dedication.”
Vestavia ills state leading 24 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.
Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills City Schools.
Business Buzz
NOW OPEN
Former University of Alabama football player and UFC middlewei ht fi hter Eryk Anders on Sept. 22 held a ribbon cutting for his new Ya Boi Fitness Academy in the former location of D1 Training at 1014 Montgomery Highway in Vestavia Hills. yaboifitness.com, 205-747-0051
COMING SOON
Liberty Park residents Adam and Mia Scott plan to open Kubu Bali Day Spa on about an acre of land at 1090 Lantern Way in the Liberty Park Bray Town Center. Looking from Liberty Parkway, it will be behind the Chevron gasoline station and to the left of The Filmont apartments. Construction began in mid-October, and the spa is expected to open in the fall of 2026, Adam Scott said. The facility will have about 4,400 square feet of air-conditioned space and a 1,200-square-foot enclosed outdoor courtyard, he said. Mia Scott, who is from Bali, will operate the spa and offer a full range of services that includes massages, facials, waxing, nail services, a sauna and steam shower. There also will be a 450-square-foot private events room for small group events or parties.
RENOVATIONS AND RELOCATIONS
The Walmart Neighborhood Market at 1300 Montgomery Highway scheduled its grand reopening
celebration for Oct. 31-Nov. 2 following an extensive remodeling project. The pharmacy was tripled in size, and the project also included new plumbing and stalls in the bathrooms, new cash registers, new refrigerated cooling units, some new shelving, removal of the tile floor and polishin o the concrete floor, store o ficials said.
walmart.com, 205-822-9994
ANNIVERSARIES
Monograms Plus at 1360 Montgomery Highway in October celebrated its 35th anniversary. shopmonogramsplus.com, 205-738-8604
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The real estate program at the University of Alabama Culverhouse College of Business has been named after Rance Sanders of Vestavia Hills after the college received a $5 million gift from Sanders and his wife, Angie. The gift will enable the college to start a new
real estate undergraduate major and expand experiential learning opportunities to enhance students’ skills through real-world applications. The donation will allow students and advisors to attend conferences and participate in real estate-focused case competitions annually and allow students to participate in live-workplay opportunities each year. Sanders is president and CEO of he Sanders rust, a health care real estate firm with properties across 30 states, and he launched Sanders apital artners, e pandin into retail, o fice and li ht industrial real estate investments.
Vestavia Hills’ Jennifer Hallman was among 15 people from Alabama who were honored Sept. 13 when the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW) announced the winners of its 2025 Professional Communications Contest. The announcement was the final e ent of the organization’s 2025 National Conference in Golden, Colorado. Hallman placed in Children’s Book/Fiction. Hallman earned her prize for her book “How Mae Got Moxie.”
By MALIA RIGGS
Kelly Connelly is a new Realtor with ERA King and also owner of Occasions for a Purpose.
Q: How did you start Occasions for Purpose?
A: So I’ve worked or nonprofits and then wanted to go out and plan events on my own so that’s what Occasions for a Purpose is. liked to do undraisin events and I’ve always done that. mean since can remember — just plannin all o it all inds of events. Then when went out on my own did that for a couple of years — then COVID hit. o then was li e well there’s no event — so what do do now? And started making charcuterie oards. posted one on nsta ram and other people were li e ooh want one o those. nd was li e oh wait this may be something here. That’s what I’ve been doin or five years.
mean ust li e to o with the asic stu you now thin s people will li e. ’m not gonna pick anything weird.
Q: How did you make the jump from your event planning business into real estate?
By JORDYN DAVIS
For more than years arnell’s Fun Stuff has served Vestavia Hills shoppers looking for thoughtful gifts — from birthday and baby items to stationery mono rammed keepsakes and custom announcements.
Located at 3370 Morgan Drive in oc y id e la a the store offers personalized items and in-house services such as en ravin printin vinyl wor sand lasting and sublimation. Customers can also request gift wrapping that includes i ows lots o ri on and attention to detail ” said lon time employee Lisa McLeod.
Q: What goes into planning charcuterie board?
A: It’s really whatever the store has. But the last time made an island at a new usiness that opened. ust ot to o in there pic all the thin s they had and they sliced it up for me. went in there and built a big island.
A: When moved and bought my own house was li e this is a really un process and I’d like to be able to help other people do that as well. o it too some time ut when finally decided to ump out there et the license do all the testin and start wor in just really wanted to help people move on to their next chapter in buying or selling their house and move forward.
McLeod has worked at Darnell’s for 11 years ever since a church riend encoura ed her to visit the shop after moving to Birmingham. ow she says e’ve uilt relationships with a lot o re ular customers and ’ve made many riends throu h the store.”
he team led y owner herri arnell is known for service that extends beyond the storefront. “She started delivering during
” c eod said. someone can’t ma e it to the store we deliver. e’ve driven out to Greystone and other areas — sometimes or pac a es ut now herri doesn’t mind.” ore than ust a i t shop arnell’s aims to be a place of connection. “We try to lift people’s spirits when they come in ” c eod said. “We want customers to feel welcome and supported throu h our personali ed items.” Learn more at darnellsfunstuff.com or call 205-823-3688.
Kelly Connelly balances real estate and charcuterie boards through her businesses in Vestavia, combining creativity, organization and a passion for helping others feel celebrated.
Photo by Malia Riggs.
Darnell s Fun tuff in Vestavia ills offers personali ed gifts, creative services and community connection — with delivery, friendship and care part of the experience. Photo by Jordyn Davis.
BUSINESS
Sips and Bites
Brick
By MALIA RIGGS
Brick Tin, a restaurant known for its fresh, seasonal dishes and artisanal approach to dining, is expanding its footprint with two new locations set to open by the end of the year — one in Cahaba Heights and one in Huntsville.
ince first openin over years a o in downtown Birmingham, Brick Tin has built a loyal following by focusing on quality ingredients and a thoughtful, farm-to-table philosophy.
According to owner and Birmingham native Mauricio Papapietro, he and his restaurant teams are passionate about sourcing food locally and sustainably whenever possible, keeping what they buy from local farms within a mile radius.
This also rings true for Papapietro’s sister establishment, Key Circle Commons, a seasonal cocktail lounge located in English Village, and his Brick Tin Mountain Brook location at aha a d. hrou h his three established locations, Papapietro and Brick Tin have built relationships with area farmers to ensure each dish and every cocktail is crafted with care and integrity — straight from local farmers, Alabama dirt or local businesses.
internally for growth for several years now in terms of our infrastructure, our technology, our systems, our accounting and our practices and standardization. We’ve been fortunate and successful and think we’ve dialed in our concept and have been ready to grow.”
The new Huntsville location is slated to open in late September or early October. This location also positions the restaurant in one of Alabama’s fastest-developing cities. Both new restaurants will reflect the same ocus on craftsmanship and hospitality that have defined ric in’s success in ountain Brook.
The menu at Brick Tin highlights elevated flavors eaturin reshly a ed read slow-roasted meats, house-made spreads and seasonal produce. Each location works to create a dining experience that feels both warm and inviting, combining rustic charm with a modern touch.
uests can e pect a menu rooted in the restaurant’s signature style, while each location is designed to complement the character of the surrounding community.
“I think that connecting people to the soil from local farmers is an incredibly important and profound thing that is lost nowadays,” Papapietro said. “Food travels for hundreds or thousands of miles to get to people. Just the practice of buying from a farmer who drove an hour after having his hands in the soil to harvest a tomato or zucchini so that people can eat that and feed their kids and nourish themselves. It's an incredibly important practice.”
to a growing culinary hub. The new Cahaba Heights restaurant will be in the former Cajun teamer location at reen alley oad near the Market Square shopping center. He hopes to open by the end of the year in time for the holiday season.
The expansion into Cahaba Heights has been three years in the making. It allows Brick Tin to bring its thoughtful approach
“As we continue to be successful and we're even getting busier, felt like we could do more,” Papapietro said. “We've been preparing
n the years we’ve een open we’ve never bought commodity meats, meat that comes from mass production. And we’ve never bought anything frozen,” Papapietro said. “The fact that we're staying relevant and staying busy and getting busier is really rewarding, because it means that people like what we do. And it's not like they don't have options in the growing food scene in Birmingham.”
Left Brick Tin s newest location will be on Green Valley Road in Cahaba eights, a move three years in the making.
bove The restaurant will bring the same artisanal approach to dining that it offers at its Mountain Brook location. Photos by Malia Riggs.
From Selma to Vestavia: A family flavor lives on
Mark’s Mart continues a family tradition of food, community, connection
By JORDYN DAVIS
Brian King’s grandparents didn’t take many vacations when they were younger. They would gather at their small-town gourmet shop the very first ar ’s art in the late 1970s, and spend time as a family running the cash register and making friends with countless customers.
“Being with my granddad, sitting at the register, drinking a slushie, eating an ice cream sandwich, being able to go grab anything off the candy aisle — it’s just that family environment grew up with. It’s really cool to see my kids run around and sit outside eating ice cream while seeing other families come into the shop with their kids. When you live in a small town like Selma, it takes you an hour to get out of the store because you’re having little conversations with guests,” King reminisced. in is the owner o ar ’s art in estavia Hills and is the grandson of Otis King, the ori inal owner and ounder o ar ’s art in elma first opened in . n in ’s father and brother, Rodney and Jacob King, opened their Northport location, directly under the well-known Roll Tide Bridge. This summer mar ed the o ficial rand openin o the oc y id e ar ’s art in estavia ills. y wi e and have lived here in estavia for 10 years and have had four children, who all go to elementary schools here. I’ve always
helped my dad and little brother with the stores and thought it would be cool to be able to bring that family element here. just wanted to bring that same family atmosphere had growing up,” King said.
Those special family traditions made openin up shop in estavia ills all the more special, according to King. He continues to carry his family’s legacy by selecting the highest-quality meats, dinner combinations, desserts and other goodies that make family dinners all the more special. One menu item in particular, the chicken swirl, is extremely popular among customers. This popular item is a seasoned chicken breast wrapped in hickory-smoked bacon.
“The chicken swirl is our top item and it’s a proprietary product that my dad created. veryone who has een to a ar ’s art the first thin they tal a out is the chic en swirl. We also have unbelievable steak, sides and seasonings. It’s really a perfect meal,” King said. he estavia ills location was ormerly known as Rocky Ridge Grocery and was the very first mar et to open in estavia ills in the 1940s. The original owners’ family recently visited the new store and were delighted to see King carrying on the tradition of small-town markets.
lthou h a small amily mar et ar ’s art is ainin reco nition and ecomin a tradition for other families, including some you
SOFA SALE
might not expect.
“There was a recent interview with Ty Simpson, the quarterback for Alabama, said his two favorite things are grilling and building Legos. They asked him how he grills, and he said ell first you save up some money and you o to ar ’s art and uy some stea s.’ thou ht that was definitely cool. y randdad was a huge Alabama fan, and seeing coaches and players with their families hits that spot,” King said.
ar ’s art is open onday throu h aturday a.m. to p.m. isit the we site chickenswirl.com — for more information on gourmet meals, butcher requests and homemade desserts.
Brian King is the owner of Mark s Mart in Vestavia Hills and is the grandson of Otis King, the original owner and founder of Mark s Mart in elma, first opened in 1978.
This summer marked the official grand opening of the Rocky Ridge Mark s Mart in Vestavia Hills.
Photo by Jordyn Davis.
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Save the Date
BREAKTHROUGH T1D WALK
Where: Wald Park, 1973 Merryvale Road
When: Sunday, Nov. 2, 2 p.m.
Details: This family-friendly walk, formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation One Walk, raises funds for research, advocacy and care — trying to come closer to a cure. All ages and abilities are welcome. Registration is required for all walkers, including children. Cost: It’s free to participate, but participants are encouraged to raise money. Donations can be made online through your personal fundraising page or by check (payable to Breakthrough T1D).
Contact: breakthrought1d.org
DECK THE HEIGHTS
Where: Cahaba Heights Business District, 3138 Heights Village
When: Saturday, Nov. 15, Pop-up shops begin at 10 a.m., trolley runs 2-7 p.m.
Details: Enjoy holiday shopping, kids’ crafts, strolling violinists, live music, ace paintin , inflata les, train rides, food and drinks, Santa photos and more. The Heights Express trolley makes a continuous loop to all event stops from 2 to 7 p.m. Leashed dogs welcome (no pets on trolley). Entertainment District rules apply — open containers allowed in designated cups.
SALUTE TO VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION
Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1090 Montgomery Highway
When: Monday, Nov. 10, noon-5 p.m.
Details: Mayor Ashley Curry and the city of Vestavia Hills will host an all-day, family-friendly celebration honoring veterans of all service branches. Festivities begin at noon with a senior luncheon (ages 55+), followed by a health and resource fair from 1 to 5 p.m. focused on veteran services. A patriotic program celebrating veterans will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. with remarks from Curry. Free and open to the public. Contact: vhal.org/events/ salute-to-veterans-day-celebration
VESTAVIA HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON
Where: Vestavia Country Club, 400 Beaumont Drive
When: Tuesday, Nov. 18, networking and buffet open at 11:30 a.m.; program noon-1 p.m.
Details: Thibaut van Marcke, a senior vice president for Orlando health, will be the keynote speaker for the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce November luncheon.
Cost: $25 ($30 after 4 p.m. on Nov. 13)
Contact: business.vestaviahills.org/ events
For more events news, connect with the Vestavia Voice online by scanning the QR code. Have an upcoming event to share? Email Jon Anderson at janderson@starnesmedia.com.
GLASSES UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME
Where: Speakeasy location in Vestavia Hills (provided upon RSVP)
When: Thursday, Nov. 13, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Details: Enjoy tastings from Clyde May’s Whiskey, Van Gogh Vodka, Prospero Tequila and McConnell’s Irish Whiskey, plus hearty hors d’oeuvres, a signature cocktail, bottle auction, ra fle, ottle rin toss, li e music and more. VIP admission includes a private commemorative toast, barrel pick tasting, autographed bottle and more. Must be 21 to attend.
Tickets: Early bird $90 (individual) or $175 (couple) through Oct. 1. General admission $100, VIP $200.
Contact: Call 205-988-0810 or go to downsyndromealabama.org
TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL
Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1090 Montgomery Highway
When: Thursday, Nov. 20, 6 p.m.
Details: Celebrate the season with the annual Tree Lighting Festival, part of Holiday in the Hills. After the ceremonial lighting of the tree at City Hall, head over to the adjacent Civic Center for photos with Santa, holiday treats, music and festivities for all ages. Hosted by the city of Vestavia Hills and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.
Contact: vhal.org/events/ tree-lighting-festival
AMANDA PAIR FOUNDATION LEGACY RUN
Where: 17035 Liberty Parkway
When: Saturday, Nov. 15; 5K at 8 a.m., fun run/walk and timed mile at 9 a.m.
Details: The third annual Amanda Pair Foundation Legacy Run, presented by Alabama Oncology, invites participants of all ages to join a mornin o amil riendl fitness and fundraising. Events include a timed 5K, a fun run/walk, a timed mile for Liberty Park Middle School students and a virtual option for remote supporters roceeds enefit a memorial scholarship honoring Amanda Pair, awarded annually to a Vestavia Hills High School senior who embodies the Rebel spirit with a servant heart. Contact: Learn more or register at amandapair.org/legacy-run.
GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
Nov. 3: Vestavia Hills City Council organizational meeting, 10 a.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Nov. 6: Vestavia Hills Design Review Board meeting, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Nov. 10: Vestavia Hills City Council action meeting, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Nov. 13:: Vestavia Hills Planning and Zoning Commission, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Nov. 17: Vestavia Hills Board of Education, 4 p.m., est i i s it h s entr fi e
Nov. 17: Vestavia Hills City Council work session, 5 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Nov. 19: Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Board: 7:30 a.m., Vestavia Hills Civic Center
Nov. 20: Vestavia Hills Board of Zoning Adjustment, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
Nov. 24: Vestavia Hills City Council action meeting, 6 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Hall
FEATURED ARTIST: Inés Orihuela
14th Craft Tasting Event +
SPORTS
Dual threats: Quarterbacks Charlie Taaffe, Price LaMaster
leadership to Rebels offense
By KYLE PARMLEY
On a college football Saturday, it’s not uncommon for the group chat to light up.
t could e a dou le pass a reverse a flea flic er or even a uarter ac oin out on a route. ric plays catch the attention o estavia ills i h chool uarter ac s harlie aa e and Price LaMaster, along with offensive coordinator osh ran lin who loves the opportunity to be creative.
e’ll see somethin on and we’re li e
e’re puttin this in ne t wee ’” aa e said.
e li e to scheme thin s up.”
eein two uarter ac s on the field at the same time is not the norm, but the Rebels do it several times a ame. t eeps opposin de enses uessin . aa e is the un uestioned leader o estavia ills’ o ense ut a aster serves a much lar er role than the typical second uarter ac on the depth chart.
Taaffe and LaMaster, both juniors, have been teammates or years datin ac to youth baseball — and their connection has become one o the most definin elements o the e els’ attac this all.
aa e is the startin uarter ac and a aster’s presence ives the o ense fleibility few teams can match. Both bring their own strengths, and neither sees the other as competition.
ust eel li e they pull me in whenever they need me or we need a spar or somethin ” a aster said. ecause now it’s hard to scheme up or me and harlie. specially harlie. mean, when get the ball to him and we do the special plays and double passes, it’s hard to de end or sure.”
Taaffe, in his second year as the starter, feels more comfortable than ever in that role.
viously last year ust ot to now the plays etter ” he said. nd honestly last year it was a lot of learning and having to put it in the ame. ut now eel li e ust o out there and now what ’m doin can e ecute it easily.”
he two uarter ac s rin contrastin s ill sets that blend seamlessly.
“Price is very good. He can read a defense, nows where to throw the all and when to throw it ” aa e said notin that his own running ability is his biggest strength.
That bond has turned into creativity on Friday ni hts and sometimes durin the wee . he
group chat serves as a brainstorming lab. ran lin encoura es it nowin oth players can contribute in multiple ways. e ust wants to et oth o us involved ” aa e said. e nows we’re two ood athletes who can do stu with the all.”
LaMaster showed his readiness when he started against Thompson earlier this year. Thompson’s defense is no easy test for even the most e perienced uarter ac . t was un ” he said. hat was definitely tou h ut it was un.”
From the sideline, Taaffe was impressed.
“I thought was going to get my shot at defense when saw him play that
well ” he o ed. ead coach o ert vans said aa e’s leadership fuels the Rebels’ success. s he oes so we o ” vans said ollowin a game earlier this year. “That’s really our team. very ody nows it. you ot a uarter ac you got a chance, and we got one of the best ones in the state and wouldn’t trade him.” nd with a aster ri ht eside him the e els have two uarter ac s whose riendship has become just as valuable as their talent. e’ve ust een riends orever ” a aster said. thin it’s really easy or us to ust uild each other up. thin we oth ive each other a lot o confidence.”
Left: Price LaMaster has started a couple of games at quarterback for Vestavia Hills this season, but he has played in many more as an extra weapon for the Rebels offense. Photo by Frank Couch. Right: Charlie Taaffe has performed exceptionally in his second season as the full-time starter at Vestavia Hills. Photo by David Leong.
From café loss to life lessons
By KELLI. S. HEWETT
nce acin financial ruin a ter a ailed investment yler and nna ash o ltadena re uilt their lives throu h rit and race at nnova a e near the olonnade. ow more than two years a ter the co ee shop’s closin the ashes have created a co ee ta le oo sharin some o their heart lessons learned ehind the counter. hey also invite readers to e plore the meanin o enuine hospitality in small steps not ust as an act ut as a way o livin .
n e reshin ospitality he rt o elcomin ” pu lished last month nna and yler translate their li e to ether throu h short stories anecdotes and action steps lendin oth the male and emale perspectives. he oo ’s theme e plores how to start small and ma e hospitality and entertainin eel more a part o everyday li e re ardless o hostin savvy.
eyond ust a traditional coo oo the i er inspiration is now a love letter o sorts to the people and e periences o nnova that reset the course o the ashes’ very lives.
nna descri ed sta and customers as authentic influences who helped the couple see people eyond their previous social circles. ustomers had ecome riends. he said runnin the shop widened and redefined their view o community.’ t chan ed us ” nna said. t ave us a
di erent lens to see all o humanity. e had een in a o with our communities and our amilies and our riends. don’t say this in a ne ative way ecause some o these people still are our riends. ut we hadn’t seen ar eyond the country clu church private schools. ur world was vanilla.” yler a reed addin od used that to ree me rom ou have to e this. ou have to loo li e this. ven i you’re not that you need to loo that way. ou need to loo li e you have it to ether.’ wanted to measure up. hen discovered somethin never would have discovered.” o ee and ca were oth a usiness and classroom. he pair and their sta leaned into small repeata le estures that si naled care. nna su ested a tiny short read on drin
Tyler and Anna Nash of Altadena have written a new book called “Refreshing Hospitality: The Art of Welcoming.” Based on their years running the now-closed Innova Coffee cafe, the Nashes include favorite recipes, such as the cafe s signature Conecuh-Cheddar Biscuits. They also the invite readers to find simple ways to add hopsitality to daily living. Photos courtesy of Angie Stritikus and Anna Nash.
saucers that customers noticed and remem ered. yler said small une pected items mean so much” ecause they arrive unannounced and ma e people eel seen. nd yes that short read recipe is in the oo . ecipes and small ood o erin s that e an as uic additions at the counter ecame part o the pair’s lan ua e o hospitality. hey turned simple plates and a ed oods into repeata le rituals si nature iscuits short read ni les and other touches meant to ma e uests eel nurtured. he couple even e perimented eyond the ca they still run an ir n cra t small uest e periences and use those moments to refine how they host people across di erent settin s. he authors have also planned a series o
small personal atherin s a lar er launch event and later hands on re reshin e periences” with local artisans and hosts reminiscent o the warmth lon enerated in nnova. ates will e announced on their we site. nna o ered simple counsel or people acin sudden li e chan es persevere and ocus on purpose ul wor . ust ive it another day or two or wee ” she said. on’t thin too ar out. our est li e mi ht e ahead o you. ursue a li e o purpose. thin that our richest days so ar have een in our s and s.” e reshin ospitality he rt o elcomin ” is now availa le in time or holiday inspiration or i t ivin . ind out more a out the ashes’ ei h orhood atherin s and e reshin periences events online at re reshin
Life in Vestavia Hills
GET TO KNOW
Alabama Visual Arts Network’s Wade MacDonald
By APRIL COFFEY
Wade MacDonald is an assistant professor of Art and the ceramics director with the Departmental Undergraduate Programs at the University of Alabama. He is a leader of the Alabama Visual Arts Network, located in Vestavia Hills at 3179 Green Valley Road, Suite 301.
Q: Tell our readers a little about the Alabama Visual Arts Network?
A: The Alabama Visual Arts Network, or is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to connecting, supporting and celebrating artists and the visual arts in Alabama. We bring together artists, educators, students and arts supporters to strengthen the role of the arts in communities across the state.
ALVAN’s most known area of programming is our annual Alabama Clay Conference, where hundreds of attendees come from around the Southeast to participate and learn from internationally recognized ceramic artists. served as the host for our February 2025 conference at the University of Alabama, where am an assistant professor of art in ceramics. It was great to see so much talent brought together to expand art culture and skill. We are looking forward to our 2026 conference, which will be
hosted in Huntsville.
Another ALVAN program we are excited to launch is the Alabama Arts Trail, which highlights the breadth of talent in Alabama’s artists and builds opportunities for the community to engage with and be inspired by their work. Currently, we have a digital platform through our website that hosts an interactive map, which is growing by the day with additional artists, studios, galleries and educational institutions.
Q: What is the mission of the Alabama Visual Arts Network?
A: ALVAN has promoted a culture in which visual art is embraced for its contributions to economy, community and human ulfillment since .
Q: What is Alabama Visual Arts Network’s vision for the future? How do you see this nonprofit growing?
A: ALVAN is in a season of growth, and it’s an exciting time. The visual arts are not only a source of inspiration, beauty and reflection ut also a orce that stren thens education, fuels the economy and brings people together. We will continue to build on our strong foundation of connecting artists and communities across Alabama so that creativity is celebrated as part of everyday life.
BACK WHEN
The 1st Deck the Heights
By TIM STEPHENS
In 2017, Cahaba Heights merchants decided to launch a new holiday tradition and the first ever ec the ei hts ar exceeded expectations.
Organized by local business owners including Katherine McRee of The Lili Pad and GiGi’s, the Nov. event invited families to ride a trolley between six stops, each offering food, shopping deals and kid-friendly activities. Children started the evening by making stockings at PT Orthodontics, then collected stickers at
each stop before showing them to Santa in e chan e or ree oodles. he final stop at The Heights Village featured music from Mason Music students, a performance by the Vestavia Hills High School Rockettes, food trucks and photos with Santa. Organizers initially thought about 100 people might attend — but closer to 400 turned out, creating long waits for the single trolley. “We’ll have four trolleys next year,” McRee joked afterward. The crowd proved that Cahaba Heights was ready for a community holiday kickoff, helping cement Deck the Heights as an annual celebration.
MacDonald
A patron talks with Santa Claus at the first Deck the Heights festivities in 2017. Staff photo.
Beer Snacks
On the Mainstage
GET TO KNOW
‘Suffs’ actress London Riley Pigott
By APRIL COFFEY
Q: Please tell our readers about yourself.
A: My name is London Riley Pigott. am 16 years old and have attended Indian Springs School for the past two years. have been doing musical theatre for 10 years now with eussical” ein my irst ’ve come a long way since then). recently starred in the MTI premiere o the musical u s” as su ra ist ne il holland. This experience changed my life and roadened my hori ons as an actor and am honored to be involved in helping with this Vestavia Hills High School production.
Q: What attracted you to musical the ater and performing?
A: For as long as could remember, loved to sing, loudly might add, and my parents wanted to find me a place that could spend some of that energy. Then, they took me to my first show ic ed ” and rom the moment that overture began and saw that giant dragon up on the stage, was hooked.
Q: Tell our readers about your
experience in New York this summer. What did it mean to you to earn the lead role?
A: This summer brought many oppor tunities for me, with u s” ein one o two ama in e peri ences. was first in a musical called ra y or ou ” directed by the incomparable Chris Ikner, where played Polly Baker, the tap dancin cow irl with a heart o old.
Q: What did it mean to you to work directly with Shaina Taub? How did she mentor you during the production?
A: or in with a enius li e haina au was indescribable. She is very down to earth and excellent at taking artists and molding their per ormances to ulfill the needs o the text.
Q: It is so exciting that you now get to help and mentor other performers at VHHS. What advice would you give to other performers?
A: ust o or it ecause u s” is a show a out the fi ht ut it’s also a out riendship identity and the power of unity.
SEEING CRACKS?
GET TO KNOW
Birmingham Girls Choir Director Margaret Heron
By APRIL COFFEY
Since its founding in 2001, the Birmingham Girls Choir has nurtured the voices of young singers across the metro area.
Executive Director Margaret Heron has helped guide the nonprofit’s post pandemic resur gence, leading it from just four returning choristers to more than irls in rades .
Q: Please tell our readers about the Bir mingham Girls Choir. When and how was it founded?
A: In its beginning, BGC was started as the irmin ham hildren’s hoir” in y a professor at the University of Alabama, with funding from a grant. Over a decade later, when manda lim o lon time irmin ham music educator, became the executive director, the choir was changed to the “Birmingham Girls hoir.” urin the pandemic was orced to shut down. Upon reopening, took on the role of executive director, and BGC had four remainin irls to start our post pandemic season. So, the current BGC launched then and now has over irls enrolled rades .
Q: What is your favorite thing about being the director of the Birmingham Girls Choir?
A: absolutely love growing girls in musical excellence and witnessing each of our choristers
uild confidence poise and independence as they learn accountability in the community that choir provides.
Q: What is the mission of Birmingham Girls Choir?
A: is a nonprofit or ani ation that instills excellence in young girls through the study and performance of choral music. Our motto is the s” ommitted to e cellence considerate of others, composed in behavior and learning.
Q: Do you have any special events or con certs coming up?
A: BGC is growing so quickly, our perfor mance calendar continues to expand! Here are some o our upcomin events ov. Fall concert, Vestavia Methodist Church, 6:30 p.m. ec. arols at the irmin ham oo p.m. ec. olla oration with pera Birmingham, Holiday Concert, 2:30 p.m., Sam ford University.
Pigott
25 for the next 25
eaders and influencers who could shape Vestavia Hills as it heads toward its centennial
Keri Bates: Chamber board chair and Rocky Ridge Drug owner; small-biz voice in commerce and civic life
John Bonanno: Daniel Communities VP; key driver of Liberty Park’s $850M Bray development
Taylor Burton: Builder and chamber chairman-elect; development ocus on housin , infill and corridor reinvestment
Laura Casey: VHCS athletic director; steward of youth sports culture and community facilities
Kimberly Cook: Council member with education and annexation expertise
Ashley Curry: Mayor; leader on safety, parks and balanced growth across a long, narrow city
Jeff Downes: City manager; oversees budgets, capital projects and Liberty Park integration
Robert Evans: VHHS head football coach; former Rebel carrying Buddy Anderson’s legacy forward
David Faulkner: State Rep., House District 46; conduit for education and infrastructure funding
Todd Freeman: Superintendent; maintains VHCS as the “golden goose” driving growth and identity
Marvin Green: Fire chief; ensuring coverage as the city stretches east and densifies around he Bray
Rocky Harmon: Soccer club executive; shaping youth sports and field use
Michelle Hawkins: Chamber president/CEO; connects six business districts across Old Vestavia, Liberty Park and Cahaba Heights
Jamie Lee: Parks and leisure services director; sidewalks, fields, tournaments and , kids in programs
Faith Lenhart: Arts Council president; leads art and cultural programming linking city districts
Cinnamon McCulley: Assistant city manager; communications lead and corridor project implementer
Katherine McRee: Cahaba Heights Merchants leader; business owner and placemaking advocate
James Parsons: Liberty Park Joint Venture president; investor guiding LP’s growth and amenities
Mike Shaw: State Rep., House District 47; VHHS alum, voice in Montgomery with tech-policy expertise
Vaughn Sparks: Leadership Vestavia Hills president; builds civic leadership pipeline
Tait Stoddard: VHCS Foundation executive director; channels private dollars into classrooms, technology and teacher support
Taneisha Tucker: Library director; keeps the Library in the Forest as Vestavia’s cultural hub
Shane Ware: Police chief; strategy and coverage as population nears 50,000
Jabo Waggoner: State Senate Rules chairman; succession could reshape Vestavia’s clout in Montgomery
Rusty Weaver: Mayor pro tem; council voice on zoning, planning and policy
HORIZON CONTINUED from page 1
Vestavia Hills incorporated in 1950, with the annexation of Liberty Park in the 1990s under Mayor Pat Reynolds. This allowed for essential land development for schools and recreation, supporting long-term stability. Cahaba Heights was annexed during Mayor Scotty McCallum’s term, expanding the city’s geography and improving infrastructure connectivity from Interstate 65 to Liberty Park.
Downes anticipates an investment of more than $850 million in Liberty Park over the next 10 to 15 years, highlighting the area’s economic growth potential.
The local school system, funded primarily by property taxes, serves as a foundation for community attraction and stability, emphasizing the importance of educational quality.
“Vestavia Hills is the home to people who are high achievers and are committed to their families and giving back to the community,”
Downes said. “As a result, our residents demand and enjoy a top-notch education system. It is the envy of all Alabamians. On top of this, Vestavia Hills is safe, has great natural beauty and prioritizes quality-of-life investments. These priorities allow Vestavia Hills to stand apart from other communities.”
PLACE THAT STANDS APART
The youth of Vestavia Hills will largely be responsible for what Vestavia will become in the decades to follow.
Part of the initiative for creating leaders, even at a young age, is Youth Leadership Vestavia. The group is made up of students at Vestavia Hills High School who take an active role in the student body and work to “make a big school feel small.”
One of those is senior Baker Stewart, who has lived in Vestavia his entire life — like his father and grandfather before him. His family is deeply rooted in the city that he describes as large in size but small in feel.
“The thing about growing up here is everyone pretty much knows everyone,” Stewart said. “You have kids that grow up together whose parents were also friends when they were growing up.”
Stewart envisions the future of Vestavia Hills to have a more centralized town center, allowing for more community events to be held in one place.
“If you go to Homewood and Mountain Brook, they have a homecoming parade through the center of their town,” Stewart said. “It just gives off a more tight-knit feel. It would be hard for us to do that with the way the city is structured now, but maybe over time we develop a more centralized town center?”
Stewart said whatever the future of Vestavia looks like, he hopes that the history of what has kept Vestavia thriving for 75
Questions that will shape the next 75 years
Will there ever be a second high school? Talk of a second high school has surfaced before, then faded. As the population grows, will the system revisit the idea — and what would it mean for Rebel identity?
an outh esta ia ills finally be fi e The U.S. 31 corridor is hot right now — a $1.2 million “Welcome to Vestavia” gateway project is sparking debate. But the bigger, longer fi ht is floodin ill it e er e solved?
What will The Bray become? Liberty Park’s new town center is rising fast with $850 million in projected investment. Will it knit the city together or stay an east-side hub? s anne ation o er Liberty Park and Cahaba Heights transformed the map. Surrounded by Birmingham, Hoover and Mountain Brook, is Vestavia now landlocked — or could new moves still be possible? How do you connect a city that’s 19 miles long and 1 mile wide? Sidewalks and trails are on the drawing board, but geography itself makes unity tough. Can a town center or new projects bridge the gaps? Who carries the torch? Vestavia’s civic generation is passing the baton. What leadership will the next 25 years produce?
years will continue.
“I think it is really important that Vestavia never loses the sense of community we have,” Stewart said. “It really is a version of Mayberry, where you walk around and everybody says hello to you. It is a place that is just really top of the line, and only see that continuing in the future.”
It was the small-town feel that immediately drew senior Vivian Shi to embrace the community she found herself calling home seven years ago when her family relocated from Cleveland, Ohio.
“I was immediately drawn to the people of this community,” Shi said. “I have lived in five di erent states across the nited tates
from Wisconsin to Texas, and there is truly no place like Vestavia. Everyone here is so kind and welcoming and there is a genuine connection among the community’s residents that no other place matches.”
Shi, also a member of the high school’s Youth Leadership Program, said something she hopes will continue growing over time is more community events — especially during the summer months.
“I always look forward to events like ‘I Love America Night,’” Shi said. “If we had more movie nights or local concerts, it could bring our community even closer. think it is important for people to understand it is our community that sets us apart, and no one knows how to grow it better than the people that make it. hope our city continues to welcome everyone and spread its joy.”
Senior Sela Rickert, the current president of the Youth Leadership Program, said she loves that Vestavia continues to add more restaurants and recreational community spaces.
“I think there are some sidewalk master plans happening, and love that because seeing everyone out walking is something love about our city,” Rickert said. “If were to come back and raise my kids here, would want to make sure the school system stays top-notch. It is just an amazing place to be able to grow up, and would only want that to continue for future generations.”
PRESERVING PAST FOR FUTURE
Rocky Ridge Drug Co. owner Keri Bates, who serves as the chairwoman of the board of directors for the Chamber of Commerce, said residents need to stay engaged for the city’s next 75 years.
“It is important to listen and learn from those who helped shape the city we live in today,” Bates said. “This will allow us to understand the reasons behind where we have come from. Engagement and shared responsibility will ensure that our growth stays true to the heart of Vestavia.”
Bates, a business owner herself, said businesses both big and small will play a key role in the city’s future growth.
“It is vital we support businesses whose owners and leaders feel a sense of responsibility to the community,” Bates said. “They do not always have to be small businesses, since larger businesses are important as well. But they should also be invested in Vestavia itself. We have seen in other communities what happens when businesses do not have ties to the place they operate in, and we must be intentional about who we invite into our city.”
Bates said Vestavia is the type of community where it provides residents with all of the conveniences they could want.
“Whether it is great restaurants, retail shops or grocery selections, you really do not have to leave estavia to find what you need,” Bates said. “I also love the emphasis
Flooding along U.S. 31 near Interstate 65 has been a longstanding issue for Vestavia Hills. As leaders turn their intention toward revitali ing and improving that end of the city, efforts to solve the ooding problem are likely to gain more attention. Staff photo.
we place on education and eautification which makes Vestavia not just a safe place to live ut also a eauti ul one.”
Vestavia Hills has grown as a city along . . .
Things that add to the city’s charm include known landmarks that Bates said are treasured parts o the city.
he y il emple is a part o our history and preserving those symbols of our heritage is vital ” ates said. reservin does not always mean eepin thin s the same. t can also mean improving and reimaging while holdin onto the spirit o what they represent.
he revitali ation alon south i hway is a reat e ample o this alance where the city can honor history while making thoughtful improvements to keep our city vibrant and eauti ul.”
heila ruce ormer president o the estavia ills istorical ociety has lived in the city or rou hly years.
One of her passions for the city she calls home has been preserving the past for future enerations.
Bruce was instrumental in helping to digiti e every record the istorical ociety had including scrapbooks dating back
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to the s.
hile ruce o ficially stepped down rom her role with the istorical ociety in une she hopes the next generation will continue the mission of preserving the past for decades to come.
Bruce imagines a virtual screen at City Hall where students can maybe browse photos maps and additional in ormation a out the city.
ait toddard e ecutive director o estavia ills ity chools oundation said those who live in Vestavia have a strong sense o purpose and she hopes that purpose
1944 Canyon Rd., Ste. 100, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Armin Hornikel, Clinic Director
will always e lived out.
“We have a shared belief in investing in our schools our amilies and our uture ” toddard said. amilies are drawn here not only or the e cellent school system ut or the lon standin sense o tradition.”
Whether Vestavia Hills will look drastically different in 75 years or not remains to e seen. hat’s certain is that the ne t eneration of leaders and residents will inherit both opportunity and responsibility — to mana e rowth to honor the city’s traditions and to hold on to the qualities that made estavia thrive in its first years.
Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry, center, poses with Miss Vestavia Hills Katherine Grigsby, left, and her mother, ngela, at the city s th anniversary celebration on ct. .
Photo by Malia Riggs.
The Bray Town Center at Liberty Park in pril. The unit Livano at Liberty Park apartment comple and ad acent unit The Filmont apartment comple for people ages and older are in the center. The large grassy area at the right of the photo is slated for a hotel with at least rooms. Photo courtesy of Liberty Park Joint Venture.
Veterans Day Celebrations
SALUTE TO VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION
When: Monday, Nov. 10, 12-5
p.m.
Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1090 Montgomery Highway
Details: This free, family-friendly event honors veterans from all military branches. The day includes a senior luncheon, health and resources fair, and a patriotic program hosted by Mayor Ashley Curry.
STEPSTONE CEREMONY
When: Sunday, Nov. 2, 1:30 p.m.
Where: Alabama Veterans Memorial Park, near Liberty Parkway
Details: Hosted by the Alabama Veterans Memorial Foundation, this tribute honors Alabama veterans recognized with engraved StepStones.
UAB VETERANS DAY 5K
PATRIOTISM
CONTINUED from page 1
e invited veterans first responders civic leaders and nei h ors rom across estavia ills to share their reflections. ot a out politics. ot a out headlines. ut a out daily li e what they elieve how they act and how we mi ht all find common round throu h love o country even when we disa ree. heir answers weren’t political. hey weren’t rehearsed. hey came rom daily li e they ust as ed us to listen.
i ns o patriotism are easy to spot in estavia merican fla s lined up down . . nei h ors turnin out or the alute to eterans ele ration at the estavia ivic enter or placin wreaths at the la ama eterans emorial ar . ome say patriotism is a out tradition wearin red white and lue standin or the national anthem or pausin on emorial ay to reflect. thers point to action votin volunteerin mentorin a student or chec in in on a nei h or.
thin patriotism can mean a lot o di erent thin s or di erent people ” said estavia ills resident arius eals a hus and ather o two youn irls and outreach ministry director or hurch o the i hlands’ irmin ham ream enter. t sym oli es your love or your country your devotion to your country your loyalty to your country and to your ellow citi ens. t can show up in di erent ways o showin your patriotism li e servin your community which is what love most a out my o . eel li e can operate in the space where can show my civic duty y helpin ellow rothers and sisters et the asic necessities and needs they have.” he people we spo e to didn’t all define it the same way. hey had di erent views and opposin ideolo ies. ut they all tal ed a out how they try to live it.
thin the only way to define patriotism in modern terms is y stayin true to what the definition has meant in the past as well ” said racie ower a estavia ills resident and stay at home mom. t is a respect or the country we are privile ed to live in and commitment to ma in decisions each day that pushes our nation to e etter or uture enerations.”
ower who comes rom a amily with three enerations o veterans, said she than s those who serve and their spouses every chance she ets. n small ways eep a fla flyin on my doorstep and ta e time to reflect on certain holidays li e emorial ay and ept. so don’t or et the steps we too to ma e it to today ” she said. also love to a e so droppin o some coo ies or sweets
Birthplace of Veterans Day: Birmingham prepares for annual parade
Most people don’t realize it all started right here.
Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran from Birmingham, was the driving force behind the creation of eterans a , or ani in the first celebration in Jefferson County in 1947. He successfully lobbied President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who designated Veterans Day in 1954 as a national holiday honoring all who served–expanding beyond the original focus on World War I veterans celebrated as Armistice Day in the years before.
Birmingham is gearing up to host its annual Veterans Day Parade Tuesday, Nov. 11, a cherished tradition honoring those who have ser ed and the sacrifices made past and present military personnel and their families.
y or the fire department is always an easy thin to do to show appreciation.” or retired a . en. avid ur ord o reystone patriotism is lived in the thin s he does daily to support the love o country reflected in his military service. atriotism is the aith o sel sacrifice that you’ll oin somethin i er than yoursel . t’s a love o country ” ur ord said. ’m very rustrated with the condition o the country. ut everyody has to e a le to spea up. hat’s what this reedom is all a out the reedom to disa ree.”
ur ord served a com ined years in the active rmy the rmy eserve and the la ama rmy ational uard. e ecame an rmy an er and a reen eret and was deployed as a special orces operative ust a ter . oday he helps or ani e irminham’s eterans ay parade the oldest in the nation throu h his wor with the ational eterans ay oundation. e’s also nown or correctin usinesses across the area that improperly display the fla accordin to the . . la ode.
here’s always room or di erences ” urord added. ut there’s no room or violence not to push your position or resist someone else’s.”
ou ones served his country as a . . enator rom . e said patriotism should e non partisan.
When: Saturday, Nov. 8, 8 a.m.
Where: Railroad Park, Birmingham
Details: Presented by Viva Health, this run/walk supports UAB military-connected students.
VETERANS DAY GOLF TOURNAMENT
When: Monday, Nov. 10
Where: RTJ Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley
Details:The War on the Greens tournament supports Gold Star families and the Alabama Veteran organization.
NATIONAL VETERANS DAY PARADE
When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 1-4:30 p.m.
Where: Downtown Birmingham
Details: The 78th annual parade features veterans groups, marching bands and community organizations.
tates is a country ounded not on ethnicity lan ua e or physical orders ut on an idea.”
elic who has three enerations o military service in his amily and one son currently servin as a arine orps captain said his parents instilled in him a deep sense o civic duty.
The National Veterans Day Foundation, a completely volunteer organization with no government funding, works throughout the year to plan the annual parade — the longest-running in the nation.
Retired Army Maj. Gen. David Burford of Greystone, an organizer, sees the parade as a reminder of how poignant patriotism and service can be.
“It’s an opportunity for us to plant the seed in young minds that patriotism matters,” Burford said. “It’s productive. It’s honorable. It can instill a curiosity that will eventually blossom into patriotism.”
Retired Army Maj. Gen. James Darden of Mountain Brook, another organizer, emphasized remembrance.
“It’s said that a person dies twice: one when they’re physically dead, and the second time is when they’re remembered no longer,” Darden said. “We cannot let that second part prevail; we have to always remember the fallen, whether or not it goes back to the Civil War, Revolutionary War–whatever it is. We cannot let those memories fade.”
National Veterans Day Parade
The 78th annual parade features veterans groups, marching bands and community organizations.
truly elieve there are epu licans emocrats independents people o all races and reli ions who love this country ” said ones who lives in ountain roo and is also a lon time civil ri hts attorney. hey are patriotic. hey are devoted to this country. hey ust have di erent philosophies a out how thin s should e run.” e said the military remains one o the clearest e amples o unity in service. atriotism is de ined as a eelin o attachment and commitment to a country nation or political community ’” said ay elic a lon time estavia ills resident and retired ournalist. he nited
ne o the most patriotic thin s we can do is vote ” he said. ut it’s also a out volunteerin throu h schools churches civic or ani ations however you can ma e your community a etter place. hat to me is ein patriotic actively involved ma in this country a etter place to live in my community y means outside the political process.”
the conversation ut that’s not mainstream.” e said the real wor o patriotism o ten happens throu h uiet e orts to listen colla orate and ive round when needed.
red hepherd a political science pro essor at am ord niversity in omewood said division isn’t new ut the desire or common round o ten catches up. you loo ac at history you see a stron tradition o demoni in the opposition sometimes without much nuance ” he said. ut there’s usually a corrective moment when people reali e thin s have one too ar.”
hile headlines and social media o ten ampli y the loudest and most e treme voices several people we spo e with said they don’t see that ind o division in their day to day lives. ones said those loudest voices o ten drive
e’ve really ot to ocus a little it more on how we can wor to ether to achieve oals nowin that we can’t always et what we want ” he said. ut as ic a er says you try sometime you ust mi ht et what you need.’”
hrou hout these conversations one theme rose a ove the rest atriotism isn’t a umper stic er or a sound ite. t’s a choice to care to serve and to listen.
ower said she sees patriotism as oth a personal commitment and a responsi ility to uture enerations.
atriotism means respectin the country we are privile ed to live in and ma in decisions each day that push our nation to e etter ” ower said.
we lose the meanin o patriotism what are we even fi htin or ” she said. e have to remem er that our nei h ors’ opinions matter too. t starts with respect. ou don’t have to a ree ut you can always learn somethin i you’re willin to listen.”
Members of the Vestavia ills, Mountain Brook and omewood police and fire departments stand at attention during the Pledge of Allegiance at the Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony with the cities of Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Homewood at Vestavia Hills City Hall in September 2022. Staff photo.
Shepherd
Melick Jones Power
Burford
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