International community
O’Neal librarian sparked an international friendship — and a State Department fellowship — just by talking about her library
By SOLOMON CRENSHAW JR.
Librarian Lindsy Gardner and her staff are like ambassadors to the world for their patrons at O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook. Youth and adults come to the library and can travel the world through the books and resources available.
But without realizing it, Gardner was an ambassador for Mountain Brook during her trip last year to Mongolia.
“Apparently, I was [a Mountain Brook ambassador] because Odno said that she really wanted to come here to learn more about community engagement,” the librarian said of Odontuya “Odno” Adiya, her 33-year-old intern from Mongolia. Adiya was so impressed by what she heard that she decided she needed to visit the city and library about which Gardner spoke.
“I don’t really remember talking much about the library, but I’m sure I did,” Gardner said. “We were together for 15 or 16 days, and apparently, I talked about how our library was part of the community tapestry. That made an impression on Odno. She was working in communities where she was trying to build community engagement for ecotourism. She felt that there were lessons to be learned here.
See MONGOLIA | page 24
Left: Gardner holds “The Secret History of the Mongol Queens,” a book she read during a trip to Mongolia that led to an unexpected connection with Adiya.
Below: Adiya plans to return home and run a four-day summer camp for students about developing sustainable tourism.
By KARIM SHAMSI-BASHA
On quiet mornings in Mountain Brook, as the
rhythm of daily life takes hold, some residents are preparing for a unique responsibility. It is work that happens in courtrooms and foster homes across Jefferson County, where children move through systems they did not choose, through situations they do not understand.
These residents are volunteers with CASA of Jefferson County, serving as Court Appointed Special Advocates. Judges assign them to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, enabling them to become a consistent presence in lives often marked by disruption.
“We are the eyes and ears of the court,” said Executive Director Kelly Burke.
The role is simple to describe but difficult to carry. Volunteers visit children at least once a month; get to know foster parents, biological families and other caregivers; and monitor whether court-ordered services are actually happening. They gather details that may not appear in official reports, then bring those observations back to the courtroom with a focus on the child.
CASA volunteers gather at O’Neal Public Library. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Above: Odontuya “Odno” Adiya and O’Neal Library director Lindsy Gardner display a Mongolian flag at the Mountain Brook library where Adiya is completing a monthlong U.S. State Department fellowship.
Photos by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
ABOUT US
Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley
Change is one of the few constants in life, as much as human nature resists it.
Even the best changes often carry with them some sense of grief, as the “way that was” turns into something new. The knowledge that what has become comfortable is about to shift, even if it’s for the better.
I’ve watched that unfold in athletics in recent weeks, as high school and college teams have experienced their final games together. Most of those teams will do so after a tough defeat, but even the eventual championship teams grieve the end of a long journey.
Someone put it to me this way recently: “You really do mourn it like
a loss.”
Personally, it’s tough to come to grips with watching teams and players play their final games.
But there is the awareness of another new and fun phase of life on the horizon, a new season with new teams and new people to get to know.
Whatever that change is in your life this summer, here’s to hoping the next phase contains its own joys as well. Thanks for reading!
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CITY
Kids play prominent role in council meeting
By SOLOMON CRENSHAW JR.
May 11 was Kids Day at the Mountain Brook City Council meeting.
Brookwood Forest sixth grader Lydia Wallace served as the Sarah C. Marsh Mayor for a Day. She gaveled the meeting to order and helped Mayor Graham Smith present proclamations for National Police Week and Jewish American Heritage Month.
Near the close of the meeting, three Cherokee Bend students spoke during the public comment period. Caroline Coffman, Elle Waitkes and Jordan Knight expressed their wish that a sidewalk be installed on their street, Old Leeds Lane.
“I would like a sidewalk on our street because I don’t want to worry, or even think, about walking home or get nervous,” said Coffman, a fifth
grader. “I can count a lot of times I’ve seen cars definitely go over 25 miles an hour, just this year walking home. I don’t know how long I’m gonna feel safe walking home, given the fact people speed. And lots of kids also ride bikes and all these things. Sidewalks would really help.”
Waitkes, another fifth grader, said a sidewalk on Old Leeds Lane would make it safer.
“We have little kids walking who may not understand how dangerous roads are,” Waitkes said. “We would also like sidewalks because it would be much safer rather than having to walk on the side of the road.”
Knight, a fourth grader, said she loves riding her bicycle through her neighborhood but would love to have a sidewalk on Old Leeds Lane.
“Without a sidewalk, we have no safe area
for me and my sister to walk,” she said. “I do not think it is fair that we have to walk through something that is very dangerous.”
Earlier in the meeting, the City Council asked that a second grant application be prepared as it considers for what street it will seek funds for sidewalks.
Nathan Currie of Sain Associates told the council during its pre-council meeting that an application had been prepared for a grant for a sidewalk on Corinth Drive. Council members noted requests from residents of Old Leeds Lane for sidewalks and asked that an application for that street be prepared as well.
Jake Wheeler concluded the public comment portion of the meeting by offering support for a sidewalk on Corinth Drive. Wheeler said Cherokee Bend Elementary’s carpool pickup policy
no longer allows parents to park on Kennesaw Drive. That, he said, has shifted traffic onto Corinth Drive.
“Cars now line both sides of the road, effectively turning Corinth into a single-lane street,” Wheeler said. “This is especially dangerous because the intersection of Corinth and Kennesaw already has two blind turns of limited visibility for both drivers and pedestrians.”
Council President Billy Pritchard said the council has not voted on either street relative to an application for a grant for a sidewalk.
“We’ll look at them and then make a decision,” Pritchard said. “There’s a section of Old Leeds Lane that would be comparable in cost to what is proposed [for Corinth Drive]. The grant [is] a million-dollar kind of number. You find a project that fits within that target number.”
Lydia Wallace serves as the Sarah C. Marsh Mayor for a Day during the Mountain Brook City Council meeting on May 11. Photos by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
Caroline Coffman talks to the Mountain Brook City Council about her desire for a sidewalk on Old Leeds Lane.
Mayor’s Minute
By Graham Smith
As mayor of Mountain Brook, I’m often asked what’s missing from Shades Creek Parkway these days. The answer is simple: the steady presence of roadside panhandling and loitering that, for a time, had become a daily fixture, particularly near the U.S. 280 interchange.
For many residents, that activity had become so common it almost faded into the background. But it raised growing concerns. While our community has deep compassion for those facing hardship, it became increasingly clear that not all activity in that area reflected genuine need. Patterns began to emerge: individuals arriving and leaving in coordinated intervals, resembling shift changes more than spontaneous circumstance. That reality is troubling, not only for the individuals involved but for the safety and well-being of our broader community.
that brought together our Mountain Brook police chief, leadership from the city of Homewood, and all relevant agencies with jurisdiction in the corridor. What followed was a strong example of regional cooperation at its best. Together, we developed a plan grounded in both accountability and compassion.
Our approach was intentional. For individuals truly in need, we prioritized access to services and attempted to connect them with outreach organizations, shelter options and support systems designed to help them move forward. At the same time, those found to have outstanding felony warrants or involvement in illegal activity, such as narcotics possession, were appropriately addressed through law enforcement.
Alabama Foot Care at Home offers top-quality care
It’s easy to take your feet for granted, but healthy feet are critically important in maintaining your independence and quality of life as you age.
Routine foot care is especially important for seniors, because even minor issues — wounds and ingrown toenails, for example — can lead to serious complications, including infections, if left untreated.
Alabama Foot Care at Home provides quality, in-home foot care for seniors and the homebound.
Jason Patterson, who founded Alabama Foot Care at Home in 2023, is an Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Certified Foot Care Specialist.
In recent months, the situation escalated. The number of individuals increased, and an encampment developed beneath the nearby bridge. Complicating matters further, those operating there appeared to understand and adapt to jurisdictional lines — at times positioning themselves on county property, then relocating to areas under state oversight. This created a fragmented enforcement landscape that required a unified response.
Recognizing the complexity of the issue, I called for a coordinated meeting
Today, what’s missing from Shades Creek Parkway is that persistent and organized activity. In its place, you’ll find a safer, more orderly corridor that better reflects the values of our community. This progress did not come from turning a blind eye, nor from heavy-handed enforcement, but from thoughtful collaboration, a commitment to doing what is right and old-fashioned teamwork.
A safe Mountain Brook remains my top priority. We will continue striving to ensure that our response to complex challenges is guided by both firmness and compassion.
The team at ENT Associates includes 14 board-certified physicians, 6 licensed PAs, and 18 clinical audiologists across 11 locations, including a new satellite office in Clanton, all dedicated to your care. We prioritize your health, treating every patient with personal attention and compassion.
We offer same-day, early morning, evening, and Saturday appointments. Call 1-888-ENT-5020 (1-888-368-5020), visit entalabama.com, or scan the QR code to connect with us online.
His team of four nurses serves communities throughout Birmingham, Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and Helena. The care team meets patients at their home, whether that’s a private residence, assisted living facility, memory care facility, group home or nursing home.
Alabama Foot Care at Home offers skin and nail assessments; nail trimming; treatment of fungal nails, corns and calluses; neurological and diabetic foot examinations; and massage for the feet and lower legs to stimulate blood flow and prevent swelling.
“It is preventive care to save limbs,” Patterson says.
The work he does with patients is “incredibly gratifying,” Patterson says. “We provide the best quality routine foot care.”
Alabama Foot Care at Home doesn’t accept insurance or Medicare. All visits are private pay at this time. By avoiding insurance red tape, Patterson can give his patients “more immediate access to care,” he says.
For more information, call or text 205-739-4581 or go online to alabamafootcareathome.com.
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Business Happenings
NOW OPEN
Woody’s Food + Bar opened in May at 2721 Cahaba Road, Suite A, in in Mountain Brook Village in the space formerly occupied by DRAM, Surf-Hound and Carrigan’s. Owner Jason Parkman is a long-time resident of Mountain Brook who has extensive experience in the restaurant industry with a food truck and a Taziki’s franchise. He now offers elevated comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches and bar food, with planned trivia nights and live entertainment.
205-747-0257, eatatwoodys.com
RELOCATIONS AND RENOVATIONS
Bromberg’s, located at 2800 Cahaba Road, continues active construction at its Mountain Brook Village location. The project will nearly double the store’s retail space and add an authorized Rolex Service Center, Bromberg Galleries, an expanded custom design center and a new entrance. Completion is targeted before the 2026 holiday season or for early 2027.
205-871-3276, brombergs.com
ANNIVERSARIES
Tribe Hair Co. Salon recently celebrated two years at 2412 Canterbury Road. Owner Zoe Jupiter and her team offer haircuts, color, extensions, make up and styling in Mountain Brook Village.
@thetribehairco on Instagram
Frida’s Cocina & Cantina, a vibrant, upscale Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurant, recently celebrated two years at 2031 Cahaba Road in Mountain Brook Village. The restaurant offers cuisine and margaritas. mexicanrestaurantfridas.com
Home With Hechart recently celebrated five years at
2003 Cahaba Road, Suite 101, in English Village. Interior designer Alex Hechart and her mother, Donna Woodfin, offer full-service residential design and an online home decor store. The business first opened in 2020. homewithhechart.com
Mizzen+Main is marking two years at The Summit, 225 Summit Blvd., Suite 300. The classic menswear store focuses on comfortable pieces, including golf essentials, dress shirts, travel wear and pullovers. 205-407-4188, mizzenandmain.com
Colvin & Sawyer Law Offices will soon celebrate its first anniversary at 4 Office Park Circle, Suite 305. The firm, led by attorneys Christopher Colvin and Valerie Sawyer, focuses on probate, estate planning, wills, trusts and small business law. 205-202-9801, colvinlawgroup.com
The Fitness Center recently celebrated 32 years at 3900 Montclair Road, Suite 210. The gym offers personal training, group fitness and cardio equipment. 205-870-1121, thefitnesscenter.org
Davenport’s Pizza Palace recently celebrated its 62nd anniversary at 2837 Cahaba Road in Mountain Brook Village. The family-owned restaurant has served pizza
and Italian fare since 1964. 205-879-8603, davenportspizza.com
Publix Super Market at Lane Parke recently celebrated seven years at 1000 Jemison Lane. The grocery store anchors the Lane Parke development in Mountain Brook. 205-802-9189, publix.com
Emmy Squared Pizza recently celebrated three years at The Summit, 300 Summit Blvd., Suite 104. The Brooklyn-based concept offers Detroit-style pizza, burgers and sandwiches. 205-994-8685, emmysquaredpizza.com
The Curry Corner will soon celebrate two years at 2037 Cahaba Road in English Village. The family-operated Indian restaurant, owned by friends Buwhan Bashel and Bir Thapa, focuses on classic as well as healthy dishes with minimal fried recipes, including large catering services. It also has a full bar. currycornerbham.com
Birmingham Boys Choir recently celebrated 53 years. Founded in 1973, the choir trains young male singers ages 8-18 and is based in Mountain Brook. 205-767-9219, birminghamboyschoir.org
Total Fitness Consultants celebrates 25 years of fun, fitness, friendship
At Total Fitness Consultants — with two locations in Mountain Brook — founder David Thomas and his skilled trainers offer clients personalized, one-on-one workouts in an inspiring, motivating atmosphere.
“Each person is unique, so we design programs to fit the lifestyle, needs and goals of each client,” says Thomas, a certified CSCS, or strength and conditioning specialist.
This is a very special year for Thomas and Total Fitness Consultants, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in Mountain Brook in June.
“I’m very grateful for the community support we’ve received, the friendships I’ve developed and for people trusting us to help them improve their lifestyle and fitness,” Thomas says.
“Total Fitness Consultants is small, intimate and relationship-based, and that seems to work well in Mountain Brook,” he says. “We wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Everyone is welcome at Total Fitness Consultants, including professionals, seniors, people exercising for the first time in years and athletes seeking to rehab an injury or improve their performance.
David Thomas Founder/President
The facility’s well-rounded program covers flexibility, balance, strength and cardiovascular health and uses a wide range of equipment, including free weights and machines.
Thomas believes deeply in the advantages of one-on-one training over the group classes found at typical health clubs. At Total Fitness Consultants, each client works out regularly with the same trainer, creating a unique opportunity to build a productive relationship.
“You develop a rapport with your trainer by consistently seeing that person time after time,” Thomas says. “They know your health needs
and goals and how to motivate you.”
Thomas encourages people to take the first step and discover the benefits of exercise at any age.
“If you’re younger, it’s about looking and feeling good and being healthy, but for older people, it’s more about quality of life, being able to function in your daily routine and enjoying your activities without
being in pain,” Thomas says.
Very few small businesses last for a quarter century, and Thomas credits the Mountain Brook community.
“They’re really good about supporting small businesses,” he says.
“The Chamber of Commerce is very supportive, being in the villages has helped me, and I’ve gotten great referrals from my clients. The relationships have been the most important thing.”
“We’re 25 years old,” Thomas says. “Come and give us a look.”
Total Fitness Consultants has two convenient locations at 2833 Culver Road in Mountain Brook Village and 204 Country Club Park in Crestline Village.
BUSINESS
Alsies gourmet ice cream truck is rolling into Mountain Brook
By APRIL COFFEY
On any sunny day, a brightly painted truck rolling down the street in Mountain Brook is turning heads — and it’s not just the colors and the traditional ice cream truck music that draw a crowd. Alsies, a new gourmet ice cream truck, is serving up more than frozen treats: it’s delivering nostalgia, fun and a fully customized dessert experience for schools, weddings, corporate events and private celebrations alike.
Founded by local entrepreneur Rob Tibbs, Alsies aims to redefine the classic ice cream truck.
“What makes Alsies unique is that we focus on creating a great experience, not just serving ice cream,” Tibbs said. “We offer a more polished, event-friendly setup with curated treats, friendly service and a presentation that fits well at everything from school events to corporate gatherings. We’re reliable [and] easy to work with, and [we] handle the dessert portion in a way that feels special but still simple for the host.”
Chief Operator Monica Rogers emphasizes the truck’s versatility. “We love school events — field days, teacher appreciation, back to school, end-of-year events and quarterly visits,” she said with a laugh. “We hope to serve the Mountain Brook schools more and more. Beyond schools, we cater weddings, showers, employee appreciation days, birthday parties and private events. This past summer, we partnered with a local welding company weekly. You name it — we will do it.” The
Alsies’ van can also be frequently found on warm Sunday afternoons at Mountain Brook Community Church or St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church.
Alsies stands out not only for its gourmet treats but also for its tech-enabled, mobile-first platform. Customers can browse a fully digital menu that is flexible and can be adjusted to fit the needs of any event. From classic ice cream flavors to specialty gourmet options, each selection is designed to delight guests and complement the event’s atmosphere. The combination of convenience and customization allows Alsies to deliver high-quality desserts seamlessly, whether it’s a corporate gathering, school celebration or backyard party.
A memorable recent event in Mountain Brook was serving on the set for a new Peter
Sullivan movie filming in the area, when he treated his cast and crew to Alsies treats.
Rogers was especially excited to meet Ashley Park, a star in the series “Emily in Paris.”
“The cast and crew were so kind, and they loved the gourmet ice cream sandwiches,” said Rogers.
Tibbs stresses that the focus is as much on the experience as the flavor. “We’re about fun, nostalgia and memories,” he said. “But we also take the stress out of the dessert portion for the host. Our setup is polished, our staff is friendly and our service is reliable — so guests get a special treat without anyone worrying about logistics.”
The trucks have already made a visible impact on the community. Families gather for impromptu treats, colleagues enjoy a midday pick-me-up at office events and students get
excited about scheduled visits to their schools. Rogers says seeing smiles at every stop reinforces the company’s mission. “The joy we bring is what it’s all about,” she said. “It’s more than ice cream — it’s shared experiences and little moments of happiness.”
As Alsies continues to roll into neighborhoods and event venues across the Mountain Brook area, the company is quickly becoming a local favorite. Residents can follow the truck’s locations, seasonal specials and menu updates on social media or book it for private events through Alsies’ website. With its innovative approach, flexible menu and commitment to community engagement, Alsies is more than just an ice cream truck — it’s a mobile dessert experience designed to make every day in Mountain Brook a little brighter and sweeter.
Monica Rogers serves as chief operator of Alsies, a gourmet ice cream truck. Photos courtesy of Alsies.
The Alsies gourmet ice cream truck features a fully digital menu ranging from classic fare like bomb pops and Sonic the Hedgehog ice pops to gourmet options like birthday cake and strawberry ice cream sandwiches. Tibbs
Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes & Catering serves lunch Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with dinner on Tuesdays until 8 p.m., offering soups, sandwiches and butter creme cakes alongside wedding cakes, occasion cakes and full-service catering for rehearsal dinners, corporate events and private celebrations. Photos courtesy of
Two decades later, Olexa’s Cafe still runs on family, faith, buttercreme
By AMASICO RAINER
Before there was a cafe — before there was a cake studio or a catering operation — there was a woman who wanted a restaurant. She never got to open one herself. Her daughter did it for her.
Diane Olexa grew up watching her mother bake wedding cakes and cook for brides on the most important days of their lives. At 22, fresh out of college, Diane made her first wedding cake as a gift to a college roommate — and something clicked. A catering business followed, launched out of the kitchen at Southeastern Bible College. Then came a staff. Then came the cafe. Her mother joined her as a creative partner along the way. Today, Olexa’s on Culver Road in Mountain Brook Village operates as a cafe, a cake studio and a full-service catering operation, with a team of more than 24 people and a clientele that has been showing up for more than 20 years.
Olexa doesn’t separate her business story
from her family story. Asked what it was like to build something alongside the woman who inspired her, she paused before answering.
“She wanted a restaurant before she left this earth, and her dream was realized in Olexa’s Cafe,” Olexa said. “God used the next generation to bring her dream to life. I would not be me without her.”
The cafe itself came about the way many good ideas do: from a customer who wouldn’t let it go. A guest at one of Olexa’s catered receptions pulled her aside and asked where they could eat her food every day. That question led directly to Olexa opening the dining room in 2004. The French-courtyard atmosphere she built around it — airy, easy-going, distinctly unlike a working lunch — became the calling card. So did the buttercreme cakes.
Olexa is deliberate about what she wants guests to experience the moment they sit down.
“We hope that they feel like they are on a retreat — that they can relax and have a vacation-like peace from the courtyard atmosphere,
the servers and the food,” she said.
The catering side of the business puts Olexa’s team inside weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, baby showers, corporate lunches and private after-hours events. It’s work that carries weight, and Olexa knows it. Events, she said, are about creating memories, and that means every detail has to be thought through before anyone walks in the door. The same approach carries into the cake studio, where brides come in with a vision and leave with the confidence that it will show up exactly right on their wedding day.
Mountain Brook Village has rewarded that consistency with loyalty that spans generations. Customers tell Olexa they’ve been coming since they were little girls. Brides return with their families for Tuesday night dinners. Milestones — birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations of all kinds — keep finding their way back to the same table.
“We have so many regulars that make our days feel like we are not at work but among
friends,” Olexa said. “Food brings us all together.”
The growth hasn’t been without strain. Olexa described opening the cafe as the hardest stretch of the whole journey and said, with some relief, that she’s glad she didn’t know in advance how hard it would be. What’s kept things moving through the difficult seasons, she said, is loyal staff and something harder to quantify. Olexa’s is not shy about its faith: she described praying that every guest who walks through the door leaves with a refreshed spirit.
More than two decades in, Olexa still lights up at the sight of a happy face leaving with a birthday cake or a bride who got exactly what she envisioned. Her mother’s dream — the restaurant, the connection, the nurturing table — is very much still open for business. As long as the customers keep coming, Olexa said, she’ll keep showing up.
Olexa’s Cafe is located at 2838 Culver Road, Mountain Brook. Call 205-871-2060 or visit olexas.com.
Diane Olexa, left, with her mother, Marilyn, and the America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow crew after filming an episode for the web series in October 2022.
Olexa’s Cafe.
Leadership transitions set the stage for Mountain Brook’s future
By APRIL COFFEY
Mountain Brook Schools is preparing to welcome new leadership at both the district and high school levels.
During a called meeting on April 28, the Mountain Brook Board of Education approved Superintendent Dicky Barlow’s recommendations for several key administrative appointments — highlighted by the naming of Lars Porter as the next principal of Mountain Brook High School and Nathan Pitner as the district’s incoming director of personnel.
Barlow announced that Porter will assume his new role on July 1, following the
retirement of longtime Principal Carrie Busby, whose nearly decadelong tenure has shaped the school’s culture and success.
Porter brings a deep understanding of the Mountain Brook community, honed through eight years in various roles including classroom teacher, technology coordinator and — since 2022 — assistant principal at MBHS. Before joining Mountain Brook, he spent six years at Homewood High School as a teacher and head track coach.
“These experiences have helped equip him to become the principal of the high school,” Barlow said. “Lars’ understanding of instruction and school culture, paired with strong
relationships within that community, makes him the best candidate for this position.”
Porter expressed both gratitude and excitement for the opportunity ahead: “I am thrilled to continue working with our school community in this capacity and to support our students, faculty and families. I’ve learned so much from Carrie Busby and wish her the very best in retirement. MBHS is a special place, and I’m honored to help lead it into the future.”
Barlow praised Busby’s leadership, describing her as an “excellent leader with great character and intellect,” and announced that the district will soon begin the search for a new
assistant principal at MBHS.
In other administrative news, Brookwood Forest Elementary Principal Nathan Pitner will move into a district leadership position as director of personnel, succeeding Susan Cole, who is retiring after an extraordinary 50-year career in education — including a decade in her current role. Pitner will officially begin his new responsibilities on July 1.
“Mr. Pitner has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to supporting teachers and students,” Barlow said. “We are confident he will continue to serve our district with excellence in this new capacity.”
Carrie Busby is retiring as Mountain Brook High School principal. Busby joined MBHS in 2018 as an Assistant Principal before taking over the Principal position in the summer of 2023 replacing Philip Holley Photos courtesy of Mountain Brook Schools.
Lars Porter will become principal of Mountain Brook High School on July 1, succeeding retiring principal Carrie Busby after eight years in the MBHS community as a classroom teacher, technology coordinator and, since 2022, assistant principal.
Nathan Pitner will move from his role as Brookwood Forest Elementary principal to serve as the district’s director of personnel beginning July 1, succeeding Susan Cole, who is retiring after a 50-year career in education.
SCHOOLHOUSE
Mountain Brook High band, choir perform in Vienna hall during Europe tour
By APRIL COFFEY
What began as a performance tour through Austria and Germany quickly became something far more lasting for Mountain Brook High School students: a journey through some of Europe’s most historic music cities and a set of shared experiences they say will define their high school years long after the final note was played.
Under the direction of band director James Rogers and choral director David Mandt, the Mountain Brook symphonic band and combined choirs traveled to Munich, Salzburg and Vienna, performing in historic venues while also engaging in diverse educational and cultural experiences.
Rogers said the trip represents a cornerstone of the program’s long-term vision for student growth through travel and performance.
“This was a band and choir trip, and we try to do an international trip about every three years to give students that opportunity,”
Rogers said. “Music is a universal language. There’s nothing better than sitting together and playing music with people who don’t speak your language — but you can still communicate completely through it.”
That idea came to life most vividly in Salzburg, where Mountain Brook students collaborated with a local Austrian music school. The exchange combined individual performances with joint pieces, culminating in a shared musical experience that transcended language barriers.
The tour continued with performances in iconic settings, including Melk Abbey and Vienna, where students performed a collaborative concert at a renowned concert hall associated with the Vienna Boys’ Choir. The choir also performed at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of Vienna’s most famous landmarks.
“These were ticketed performances, and we sold out the hall in Vienna,” Rogers said. “To turn around and see not only our parents but members of the local community there just to hear our students — that was incredible.”
Beyond the stage, students experienced a sweeping educational itinerary that included the BMW Museum in Munich, Mozart’s birthplace in Salzburg and Vienna’s House of Music, which explores the science and history of sound and composition. One of the most powerful stops, Rogers said, was a visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site.
“It was definitely a very hard morning,” he said. “But it was incredibly impactful. Our students handled it with maturity and respect.”
For student Ada Dapkus, the trip’s significance extended well beyond the formal performances and museum visits. While she acknowledged the intensive preparation leading up to the tour — including multiple
rehearsals and extended after-school sessions — she said the most meaningful aspects of the experience were often found in between scheduled events.
“For me, the best part of this experience was the opportunity to see these magical places with my best friends in the world,” she said. “As seniors we have to treasure these final moments with everybody before we say goodbye forever, and having the opportunity to take the trip of a lifetime with them was incredible.”
She added that the emotional core of the trip came not from the destination itself but from the shared experiences along the way.
“I think I will remember the people I went on the trip with and the in-between moments we had throughout it,” Dapkus said. “Some of the best memories are not necessarily the amazing tours but instead the car games I played with my friends while riding through
the Alps or listening to the playlist we all made together while watching the sunset over the countryside. Those little moments were really what the trip was about for me.”
Rogers echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that music education is as much about relationships and personal growth as it is about performance.
“Getting to see students from the time they start in elementary school all the way through high school — that’s the most rewarding part,” he said. “And then to watch them take that growth and represent their school and community on an international stage — that’s something you can’t replace.”
As Mountain Brook students returned home, they brought back more than instruments and memories. They returned with a deeper understanding of music’s global language — and the bonds formed through it, both on and off the stage.
Trustmark knows the importance of a strong, thriving community. That’s why we work hard to serve the places we call home by providing financial education and resources, contributing over 7,000 volunteer hours annually and helping create vibrant communities through more than 800 local partnerships. At Trustmark, we believe in the Power of Community. trustmark.com/community
Mountain Brook High School’s symphonic band and combined choirs performed in Munich, Salzburg and Vienna in a tour led by band director James Rogers and choral director David Mandt. The group sold out a concert hall in Vienna associated with the Vienna Boys’ Choir and also performed at St. Stephen’s Cathedral during the trip. Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Schools.
ACCOLADES
Student showcase draws big crowd
By APRIL COFFEY
A vibrant evening of learning and imagination lit up Crestline on April 27 as families gathered for the annual Mountain Brook Student Showcase, an event that continues to highlight the strength and spirit of the local school community.
This interactive celebration of student achievement featured nearly 70 themed tents. Visitors explored hands-on exhibits ranging from miniature electric villages and living history displays to literature-inspired presentations, robotics demonstrations and math-based challenges. Students also invited guests to join in playful activities such as putt-putt golf and Chinese jump rope, adding a lively, interactive touch to the evening.
Entertainment extended beyond the exhibits, with 10 student performances that kept the audience engaged throughout the night. Music, movement and creative expression filled the air, reflecting months of preparation and collaboration between students and staff.
Organizers credited the event’s success to
strong community support. Parents turned out in large numbers, while teachers, staff and students dedicated their time after school to bring their projects and performances to life.
Though the showcase lasted just two hours, it offered a powerful glimpse into the daily creativity and learning taking place in Mountain Brook’s schools year-round.
OTHER NEWS
► On May 7, Mountain Brook City Schools celebrated the retirement of 21 employees, with a combined 409 years of service to Mountain Brook schools and a total of 601 years in the field of education.
► In the May Seal of Biliteracy Awards ceremony at the Mountain Brook Fine Arts Center, 116 Mountain Brook High School graduating students were honored. The Seal of Biliteracy was awarded by the Alabama State Department of Education in recognition of graduating students who have demonstrated an intermediate level of proficiency in English and at least one other world language.
The annual Mountain Brook Student Showcase on April 27. Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Schools.
SPORTS
Spartans tennis claims state championship sweep
By KYLE PARMLEY
For the 18th time in program history, Mountain Brook High School's tennis teams swept the state championships in the same season, with both the boys and girls claiming Class 6A titles at the Mobile Tennis Center in April.
The Spartans girls extended their remarkable run of dominance, winning their sixth straight championship and adding to a state-record 35 AHSAA tennis crowns overall. The boys claimed their third consecutive 6A title and 29th overall. Both programs are coached by Carlee Petro.
The boys turned in one of the most dominant performances of the tournament, finishing with 71 points and outscoring runner-up Northridge by 28.
Five Spartans reached singles finals, and all five came away as champions. Sophomore Quint Freeman won the No. 1 singles title in three sets, rallying past Northridge's Will Thom 4-6, 6-4, 10-4 in the championship match after dropping the first set. Freeman had navigated a tough bracket, beating Cole Howell of Jasper in the quarterfinals and Luke Wallace of Pike Road in the semifinals.
Sophomore Aary Palaniappan was equally impressive at No. 3, not dropping a set all tournament and finishing with a 6-0, 6-1 win over Ben Ford of Muscle Shoals in the final. Junior Tony Sciara dominated at No. 4, going through the bracket without dropping a game in the final against Sam Christian of Pell City, 6-0, 6-0. Freshman Towns Lassiter won the No. 5 singles title, and junior James Burnette claimed No. 6, giving the Spartans a clean sweep across the lineup.
Mountain Brook also won the No. 2 and No. 3 doubles titles. Senior Karna Palaniappan and Lassiter teamed to win No. 2 doubles, while Luke Nagi and Aary Palaniappan delivered the No. 3 doubles crown.
The girls matched the boys' excellence. Mountain Brook posted 68 points, outdistancing runner-up Decatur by 29. The Spartans won four singles titles.
Sophomore Virginia Puckett won at No. 3, beating Elizabeth Chappell of Homewood 6-3, 6-1 in the final. Junior Leila Malatesta took the No. 4 title in three sets, rallying past Hartselle's Gabby Guice 7-5, 4-6, 10-6. Junior Sarah Still went through the bracket without dropping a set, winning the No. 5 title 6-1, 6-0 over Decatur's Katherine Botto. Freshman Kathleen Wilkinson capped the day with the No. 6 singles crown, beating Decatur's Annie Pylant 6-2, 6-3 to finish her season with an undefeated record.
In doubles, Leslie Mitchell and Wilkinson combined to win the No. 2 title, while Still and Malatesta competed at No. 3. Olivia Roberts competed at No. 1 singles and reached the semifinals, falling to eventual champion Tereza Mojs of Gulf Shores.
Mountain Brook's 18 dual sweeps, stretching back to 1972, remain unmatched in state history.
The Mountain Brook High School boys and girls tennis teams swept the Class 6A state championships on April 24 in Mobile. Photo courtesy of Carlee Petro.
Lakeshore Foundation’s aquatics program offers fun, fitness, healing
Lakeshore Foundation offers a wide variety of fitness and recreation opportunities for all ages, but its aquatics program is perhaps its most popular.
At the Aquatics Center, adults can choose independent exercise and lap swimming or group classes ranging from beginner lowimpact exercise to advanced cardiovascular exercise. Private lessons are also available.
There are classes and programs for children ages six months to 18 years with a wide range of ability levels. Lakeshore also sponsors youth and adult swim teams.
“Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise, “ says Aquatics Director Emily Mallard. “It includes all major muscle groups in a low-impact way. Our participants include children as young as 6 months and adults up to 100, and aquatics can be adapted to all abilities.”
The facilities are top-notch, including two large pools with varying temperatures, the therapy pool and lap pool.
“We offer several entry and exit options – a zero entry, pool lift, stairs, ladder and poolside entry for individuals using wheelchairs,” Mallard says. “These allow participants to participate in aquatics while being as independent as possible.
“There are no other facilities I know of that offer this kind of overall experience,” she says.
“The value a member gets is unmatched.”
In addition, people really enjoy the program. “Not all our participants are swimmers, but they all love the water,” Mallard says. “There’s something special about those first few seconds in the pool – pain reduces, muscles relax, moods improve.”
When you join the aquatics program, you receive a one-on-one orientation with one of the well-trained staff members, all of whom hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees in kinesiology or related fields.
“We go over their health history and goals and develop a program for them,” Mallard says.
Wood
Lakeshore Foundation Fitness Center
• Where: 4000 Ridgeway Drive
• Call: 205-313-7400
• Web: lakeshore.org/activity/aquatics
Mallard has worked at Lakeshore for 16 years, has a degree in exercise science from Samford University and holds several certifications, including pediatric aquatic fitness and inclusive fitness training. She’s also Lakeshore’s head swim coach and a coach for the U.S. Paralympics swimming team.
The aquatics program also offers therapeutic benefits.
“Many participants have experienced injuries or surgery, and we help them get back to their desired ability and independence,” Mallard says. “We often continue what they’re doing in physical therapy and give them additional activities.”
The classes provide a valuable social outlet.
“Many of our members live alone, and taking a class allows them to be a part of a group and fellow members who encourage and hold them accountable,” Mallard says.
For details, go to lakeshore.org/activity/ aquatics.
Aquatics Director Emily Mallard
Spartans girls finish off school-year sweep
By KYLE PARMLEY
The Mountain Brook High School girls track and field program claimed the Class 6A state outdoor track and field championship at Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium in Gulf Shores, finishing with 72.5 points to edge Pelham by 3.5 points.
It marked the 15th outdoor track state championship in program history and capped a historic school year in which the girls cross-country, indoor track and field, and outdoor track teams all won state titles.
The girls made the biggest team statement, winning the Class 6A girls 4x800-meter relay with a time of 9:40.62, the fastest in Alabama this season. The boys 4x800 squad matched that energy, finishing second in 7:50.28, the second-fastest time in the state this year. The boys 4x400 relay rounded out the relay contributions with an eighth-place finish in 3:25.97, while the girls 4x400 team took second in 4:03.80.
Francesca Demarco was the standout performer of the meet for Mountain Brook, earning medals in three distance events. She finished second in the 800 meters in 2:16.67, second in the 1,600 meters in 5:02.50, and second in the 3,200 meters in 10:58.31. Her times in all three events ranked among the best in the state this season. Ann Gibson Hamilton added to the distance haul, finishing third in the 1,600 in 5:09.00 and eighth in the 3,200 in 11:26.41, a remarkable showing for one of the program's youngest competitors.
On the boys side, Joseph Spencer delivered a strong performance in the distance events, finishing second in the 1,600 meters in 4:17.97 and third in the 800 meters in 1:57.03. Ethan Schniper backed him up with a fourth-place finish in the 1,600 in 4:21.67. James Flack
added a seventh-place finish in the 1,600 in 4:24.40 and eighth in the 3,200 in 9:41.74.
William Morgan placed sixth in the 3,200 in 9:41.21.
Stephen Meadows cleared 6 feet, 2 inches to take fourth in the boys high jump. Mary Alice Crull delivered one of the meet's more eye-catching performances for the girls,
clearing 5-2 to finish third in the high jump.
Sydney Martin took second in the girls pole vault at 11-6.
Beau Dionne placed seventh in the boys javelin at 155-2. Crawford Chester placed eighth in the boys shot put at 46-1.
Caroline McLean placed sixth in the girls 100-meter hurdles in 16.47 seconds. Annabelle
Avery placed sixth in the girls discus at 110-9. Kayman Hamilton threw 98-1 for 10th in the girls javelin. Braden Little finished eighth in the boys 800 in 1:57.41.
Teddy Dionne swept the para ambulatory field events for Mountain Brook, winning both the boys discus (59-5) and boys shot put (23-7), setting personal bests in both.
The Mountain Brook High School girls track and field team won the state outdoor meet on May 2 in Gulf Shores. Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Schools.
Eight Spartans sign on spring signing day, bringing class total to 19
Mountain Brook High School celebrated eight student athletes on May 11 in the school gym for the spring signing day ceremony:
► Rocco Gray: Washington and Lee, Football
► Cayden Hofbauer: Coast Guard, Football
► Stuart Andrews: Auburn, Football
► Henry McGahey: Rhodes, College Soccer
► Sam Estes, Millsaps: Baseball
► Leython-George Williams: Calhoun
County Community College, Baseball
► Hill McCluney: MIT, Basketball
► Addie Bazemore: Troy, Track and Field
These eight student athletes bring the total number to 19 MBHS seniors who have committed to playing their respective sport at the next level.
— Submitted by Mountain Brook Schools.
Spartans boys claim state golf championship
By KYLE PARMLEY
Mountain Brook High School's boys golf team claimed the Class 6A state championship at the Robert Trent Jones Magnolia Grove Golf Course in Mobile, finishing 32 strokes under par over 36 holes to tie the AHSAA state tournament record for best team total — a record the Spartans originally set in 2018.
The championship was built on an extraordinary performance across the entire lineup.
Mountain Brook opened with a 25-under 263 on May 11, a new AHSAA single-round team record, then followed with a 7-under 281 on May 12 to finish with a 514 total. The Spartans placed four players in the top five of the individual standings, a reflection of the program's depth from top to bottom.
Freshman S.J. Thomas led the way, firing rounds of 64-68 to finish at 12-under 132,
tying the AHSAA state tournament record for best individual 36-hole total. Teammate Denton Brooks pushed him throughout, carding a tournament-best 9-under 63 on Monday before adding a 2-under 70 on Tuesday to finish one stroke back at 133. Fletcher Finch finished fourth overall at 140, and Ryan Pugh finished fifth at 141. Ford Birchall added a 142 total, and Andrew Woods rounded out the lineup with a 143.
It was the program's 11th overall boys state golf championship and first since 2022. On the girls' side, Mountain Brook finished third in the Class 6A standings with a 467 total behind champion Spanish Fort. Junior Emma Kate Rice and sophomore Elise Lamkin led the way, each finishing at 149 for the tournament. Rice shot rounds of 74-75 while Lamkin carded a 77-72, with Lamkin's second-round 72 one of the stronger closing rounds among Spartan competitors.
Mountain Brook's Stuart Andrews was among the Spartans recognized at the school's spring signing day ceremony on May 11. Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Schools.
The Mountain Brook High School boys golf team won the Class 6A state tournament on May 12 in Mobile. Photo courtesy of AHSAA.
EVENTS
the Date
NIGHT MAGIC
► Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Road
► When: Tuesday, June 2, 4-5 p.m.
► Web: bbgardens.org
► Cost: Free
► Details: The Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host a “Thyme to Read” book club discussion featuring “Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens and Other Marvels of the Dark” by Leigh Ann Henion. Free and open to the public.
SUMMER CHAMBER MEMBER SOCIAL
► Where: Pinnacle Financial Partners, 2020 Cahaba Road
► When: Thursday, June 11, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
► Call: 205-871-3779
► Web: mtnbrookchamber.org
► Cost: Free for members
► Details: A come-and-go networking event for Mountain Brook Chamber members featuring drinks, light bites and opportunities to connect. Sponsored by Always Best Care of Birmingham, Gunn Dermatology and Synovus.
DAYLILY GARDENING MASTER SERIES
► Where: Hodges Room, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Road
► When: Wednesdays, June 3, 10 and 17, 10 a.m. to noon
► Web: bbgardens.org/event/ daylily-gardening-master-series-2
► Cost: Three-session package, $90 for members, $95 for non-members. Registration is required.
► Details: A three-week series led by horticulturist Renee Holliman, owner of Holliman Gardens, covering daylily history, anatomy, care, soils and fertilizers. Holliman grows more than 800 varieties and brings 35 years of experience.
AIR LAYERING PLANT PROPAGATION
► Where: Japanese Garden, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Road
► When: Friday, June 12, 9-11 a.m.
► Web: bbgardens.org
► Cost: $40 for members, $45 for non-members. Registration is required.
► Details: Horticulturist Julia Adams will lead a hands-on workshop in the Japanese Garden focused on propagating difficult-to-root plants through air-layering techniques. Open to all skill levels; registration required.
► For more events news, connect with the Village Living online by scanning the QR code.
► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS AND FALL PREVENTION
► Where: Levite Jewish Community Center, 3960 Montclair Road
► When: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
► Call: 205-879-0411
► Web: bhamjcc.org
► Cost: Free
► Details: A weekly introductory tai chi class focused on arthritis relief and fall prevention through gentle movements and guided instruction. No experience or advance registration required. Open to the public; JCC membership not required.
ART-FOR-ALL BALL
► Where: Grand Bohemian Gallery, 2655 Lane Park Road
► When: Saturday, June 13, 4-6 p.m.
► Web: intotocreativearts.org
► Cost: $70
► Details: InToto Creative Arts will host a fundraiser ball and silent auction to benefit programs for artistic expression, healing and connection for those affected by social and economic hardships, including homelessness and incarceration. Each event ticket includes access to the art auction, two drink tickets, hors d'oeuvres and a champagne toast. Works from emerging and established artists will be featured.
ENGAGE LEARNING CONFERENCE
► Where: Mountain Brook High School, 3650 Bethune Drive
► When: Tuesday and Wednesday, June 9-10
► Web: mtnbrook.k12.al.us/engage
► Cost: Free
► Details: Mountain Brook Schools and the Mountain Brook Schools Foundation will host a two-day conference for educators featuring keynote speakers and hands-on sessions focused on student engagement and innovation. Registration, lunch and door prizes included.
CITY MEETINGS
June 1: Mountain
June 8: Mountain
June 11:
June 22:
EVENTS
Low-cost ways to enjoy summer close to home
By KRISTI SELLERS
Summer in Mountain Brook has a way of slowing things down in the best possible way. Long evenings, shaded sidewalks, tuckedaway parks and nearby trails make it easy to enjoy the season without leaving town or spending a lot of money. One of the biggest advantages of living in Mountain Brook is how many beautiful, family-friendly spaces are woven into everyday life.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a quiet morning walk, an afternoon outing with the kids or a low-key summer evening close to home — the area offers plenty of easy options. These activities highlight some of the best affordable and hyperlocal ways to enjoy summer around Mountain Brook all season long.
WALK THE TRAILS AT JEMISON PARK
Jemison Park is one of the most iconic outdoor spaces in Mountain Brook. It combines shaded walking paths, small bridges, creek views and peaceful scenery right in the middle of town. It works for nearly everyone — walkers, runners, families with strollers or anyone simply wanting fresh air after dinner. Located along Mountain Brook Parkway, the park is free to access and offers plenty of nearby parking. Bring water, comfortable shoes and bug spray during warmer months. Early mornings and evening walks are especially pleasant during the summer when temperatures cool and the park feels particularly calm and scenic. Find park maps and details at mtnbrook.org/ parksrec/park/jemison-park.
EXPLORE BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are among the area’s best free summer destinations. They offer shaded paths, seasonal blooms, fountains and peaceful green space without requiring tickets or reservations. Located just minutes from Mountain Brook near Lane Park Road, the gardens make an ideal outing for families, couples, photographers or anyone looking for a relaxing afternoon. Visitors can spend as little or as much time there as they’d like while still enjoying a beautiful setting. Admission is free yearround. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and water if visiting during midday heat. Plan your visit at bbgardens.org.
COOL OFF AT THE POOL
The Levite Jewish Community Center, located at 3960 Montclair Road just minutes from Mountain Brook, is home to one of the best pool facilities in the area. The outdoor pool — a 300,000-gallon showstopper — is open from mid-May through September for
family swim, lap swim and water exercise classes. A heated six-lane indoor pool is available year-round. The J, as it’s known locally, welcomes members and guests alike, and you don’t have to be Jewish to join or visit. Guest passes are available for those who aren’t members. Check the website for current rates, hours and seasonal programming before your first visit. Bring towels, sunscreen and water shoes, and plan to arrive early on hot summer weekends when the pool is at its liveliest. Find membership options, guest pass details and the full aquatics schedule at bhamjcc.org.
PICNIC AT CANTERBURY PARK
Canterbury Park is one of Mountain Brook’s most accessible neighborhood spots for a casual outdoor afternoon. It offers a playground area, picnic tables and a relaxed setting that works well for families with younger children. Pack sandwiches or takeout and turn a simple stop into an easy outdoor picnic. The park is free with nearby parking available. Evening visits are especially pleasant once temperatures cool down. Find park details at mtnbrook.org/parksrec.
PLAY AT MOUNTAIN BROOK ATHLETIC COMPLEX
The Mountain Brook Athletic Complex is one of the area’s best free options for active summer fun with kids. Located on the Mountain Brook High School campus, the complex offers six baseball and softball fields, three soccer fields, six tennis courts, a children’s playground, a concession stand and restroom facilities — making it easy to spend an entire afternoon without running out of things to do. Whether the kids want to kick a soccer ball, hit the playground or rally on the tennis courts, there’s room to spread out and play. Access is free, with parking available on campus. Find details at mtnbrook.org/parksrec/park/ mountain-brook-athletic-complex.
TAKE AN EVENING WALK THROUGH ENGLISH VILLAGE
Sometimes the best summer activities are the simplest ones, and an evening stroll through English Village is one of Mountain Brook’s easiest and most enjoyable traditions. It combines walkability, local charm and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for warm summer evenings. Families can window shop,
couples can enjoy a casual date-night walk, and friends can grab coffee or dessert while exploring the area. Located in the heart of Mountain Brook, the village is easy to access with nearby parking available. Costs depend on what you choose to purchase, making it flexible for nearly any budget. Explore dining and shopping options at mtnbrookchamber. org.
GRAB ICE CREAM AND RELAX IN LANE PARKE
Lane Parke offers one of the easiest ways to enjoy a relaxed summer evening close to home. Families, couples and groups of friends can grab ice cream or a sweet treat and spend time walking the sidewalks, relaxing outdoors or people-watching as temperatures cool down after sunset. Located near Lane Park Road, the area combines restaurants, outdoor seating and walkable public space that feels lively without requiring a major expense. Costs vary depending on what you order, making it flexible for different budgets. Evening visits are especially popular during weekends, when the area feels most active. Browse dining and shopping options at laneparke.com.
The Levite Jewish Community Center on Montclair Road offers a 300,000-gallon outdoor pool open from mid-May through September, with family swim, lap swim and water exercise classes available to members and guests alike. Photo courtesy of LJCC.
Jemison Park along Mountain Brook Parkway offers shaded walking paths, small bridges and creek views, with free access and nearby parking available year-round. Staff photos.
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens near Lane Park Road offer shaded paths, seasonal blooms and fountains with free admission year-round.
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CONTINUED from page 1
“It was not my intent, but I think that it was an unintended consequence that I was an ambassador for what’s so special about Mountain Brook.”
Gardner was such a good ambassador for the city that Adiya sought and was awarded a fellowship through the U.S. State Department to come to the United States and stay for a month through mid-May. Her mission is to return home and run a project that’s based on the experience and knowledge she gained during her visit.
“That project must serve the community and also community development or engagement,” the Mongolian visitor said. “Before coming here, I already proposed a project to Lindsy and the State Department, but I can do a little adjustment. That project is actually running a summer camp.”
Adiya established her own consulting company in the tourism industry. She is working on developing sustainable tourism in eastern Mongolia.
“There’s this specific small village where I [am] working with the herder cooperatives,” she said. “Together last year, we established a small bed and breakfast. Now the bed and breakfast is run by the herders. I consulted on the operation of the bed and breakfast, and I also brought international tourists there.”
Adiya developed itineraries for touring the surrounding areas.
“Now my project is focused on the youth [and] young adults of this community,” she said. “I’ll just run a four-day immersive summer camp for 10 students and also two teachers from the secondary schools of that community so that the participants will get equipped with this scientific knowledge and sustainable tourism practices.”
The aim is to also boost their local pride.
“There is this big rural and urban divide in Mongolia,” Adiya said. “Young people tend to leave their small village to [go to] the city, of course, for better education, the better income. Still, they need this local pride, and I want them to understand that there is still opportunity at your hometown. I also [want to] inspire the next Mongolian environmental leaders. That’s a big ambition.”
During summers in Mongolia, Adiya works as a tour guide, contracting with four tour operators. Her tours included Nadaam, the biggest summer festival in Mongolia, as well as reindeer, snow leopards and a paleontology tour.
“It’s a special interest travel tour,” the intern said. “I’m also learning to become the bird-watching tour director. Mongolian tourism is basically based on the natural resources, so I had to learn things like that.”
Adiya said directing tours in Mongolia has been a two-way street as tourists learn from her.
“I also learn a lot from them,” she said. “Also, we exchange lots of cultural experience and lots of things. That’s why I came here because I was really inspired by Lindsy last year. We were talking about all these events and activities at this Mountain Brook library to engage the communities.
“I was really inspired by this,” Adiya said. “I was thinking, ‘I wish I could visit that library and get the hands-on experience of what she’s doing here.’”
Gardner said she’s tried to make Adiya’s learning experience as robust as possible.
“She’s very interested in conservation, so I’m working with some of the local conservation organizations for her to have time to learn more about the biodiversity of Birmingham and Jefferson County and how conservation efforts work here,” the librarian said. “It’s been a joy for me just to introduce Southern culture to Odno and all the different foods. It’s just been delightful to play the tour guide to her.”
Left: Odontuya “Odno” Adiya displays materials from her May 7 presentation at O’Neal Library, including a model of a traditional Mongolian nomadic ger.
Above: Adiya assembles a model of a ger, the traditional dwelling of Mongolian nomads and a centerpiece of the rural communities where Adiya is working to develop sustainable tourism. Photos by Solomon Crenshaw Jr.
Adiya, wearing traditional Mongolian dress, points to her home country on a globe at O’Neal Library.
CONTINUED from page 1
Across Jefferson County, roughly 1,500 cases move through family court at any given time. About 300 children are currently served by CASA volunteers. The need, however, continues to outpace the number of advocates available.
For retired educator Catherine Shields, the decision to volunteer came from a lifelong belief that children need steady support. Her first case began in 2022 and quickly revealed how much that consistency matters.
“For 18 months, there were three different DHR workers,” she said. “I was the consistent person in that child’s life.”
That presence can shape how a case unfolds. CASA volunteers often spend more uninterrupted time following a child’s story than anyone else involved, and judges rely on their perspective. Shields recalled being asked directly for her recommendation, a moment that underscored both the responsibility and the trust placed in volunteers.
“You realize they want to know what you see,” she said.
Children in the foster system often move multiple times, and each move can mean a new school, a new routine and new uncertainty. Volunteers become a thread of continuity, people who know the children beyond paperwork.
Volunteer Elizabeth Kanter said she felt called to serve, wanting to intentionally give her time and attention to children who might otherwise go unheard.
“It’s emotionally taxing, but it’s rewarding,” she said. “You feel for the children, but your focus has to be the best outcome for the child.”
Between court dates, volunteers step into homes and sit with families, often in difficult circumstances. Amanda Wilson said those visits reveal the complexity behind each case.
“Families may love their children and want to stay together,” Wilson said. “But struggles and instability can make that difficult.”
That balance is central to the work. Burke said most cases exist in shades of gray, where love and care do not always align in ways that ensure safety or stability.
“Most parents love their kids,” Burke said. “But loving and caring is different.”
For Grace Murphy, the impact is measured one child at a time. She said the role allows volunteers to step into children’s lives during difficult moments and offer some measure of grounding.
“You’re helping them through one of the toughest times of their lives,” Murphy said. “It’s also a tangible way to serve beyond the boundaries of daily life.”
The work requires training in recognizing abuse and neglect, understanding mental health and substance use, and approaching families with cultural sensitivity. Volunteers are also supported in managing the emotional weight of the work, often described as secondary trauma.
Still, there are moments that stay with volunteers long after a case ends. Kanter recalled receiving a message from someone she had worked with that expressed gratitude in a way that affirmed the importance of simply showing up.
For Rebecca Tucker, the work is informed by experience. She served as a foster parent for more than a decade and saw firsthand how
stretched the system can be. CASA volunteers, she said, help ensure that children do not get lost in the process.
“Without someone focused on the child, a case can go on for a long time,” she said.
New volunteers quickly learn the weight of the role. Kate Hollingsworth said her first court appearance left her nervous but aware of the responsibility she carried.
“I was shaking all day,” she said. “But you realize you’re a voice for the voiceless.”
Volunteers say the experience reshapes how they see their community and deepens their understanding of how early intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
CASA continues to recruit volunteers from across Mountain Brook and Jefferson County, with a particular need for more men to reflect the diversity of the children served. Volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds, united by a willingness to commit time, attention and care.
Burke said the need for more volunteers remains urgent. There are more children who could benefit from a CASA volunteer than there are people currently able to serve. Many of the families involved face economic hardship, and the situations children come from are often complex and challenging.
Still, the goal remains steady. Whenever possible, children are reunited with their families in
safe and stable conditions. When that is not possible, CASA works to ensure they find the best possible placement and the support the children need moving forward.
Recently, volunteers connected with the community at a CASA table inside a local coffee shop. Among them was board member Patrick Dogan, who joined the organization after seeing its impact firsthand.
“I was invited to a CASA event and saw the impact on a young woman coming through the foster care system,” Dogan said. “Her life was better because of CASA. That story stayed with me.”
Now serving on the board, Dogan said the work is both meaningful and necessary — from advocacy to fundraising efforts that sustain the program.
“On a personal level, I grew up in a stable household,” he said. “To be able to help children who don’t know what that looks like matters.”
Across Jefferson County, in courtrooms where decisions shape futures, there is often someone present who has taken the time to understand a child’s story. That volunteer has chosen to step into a role that requires patience, empathy and resolve.
And in that moment, when a child’s future is being decided, that presence can make all the difference.
Left: Volunteer Amanda Wilson encourages CASA Executive Director Kelly Burke.
Right: CASA volunteer Rebecca Tucker was a foster parent for years before joining CASA. Photos by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
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