Bond ACROSS THE OCEAN
Two moms share an IVF journey between Alabama and England
OUR PEOPLE
Matthew Allen, Publisher (205) 883-1877 | matthew@jbmcmedia.com
Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director stephanie@jbmcmedia.com
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Michelle Salem Haynes, Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311 | michelle@jbmcmedia.com
Tony Bratina, Cover Designer
Shweta Bratina, Graphic Designer
Emily VanderMey Listo, Operations, Project Management & Graphic Designer
Becca Tobin and her husband, Jake, welcomed son Jude at UAB in July 2024, thanks to their Alabama native surrogate, Zoy Ferguson. The families are bonded forever through their IVF journey. Read more on page 10.
Photograph courtesy of UAB
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As September arrives, we welcome a season full of new beginnings. This issue of Bham Family is packed with inspiration for families settling into the backto-school groove while still savoring snippets of post-summer fun.
After-school activities are more than just a way to keep kids busy—they’re powerful tools for learning, growth, and friendship. We’ve rounded up some fantastic local programs that will spark creativity and confidence in your child. Read more starting on page 20.
We’re also proud to highlight an incredible initiative making a real difference in our school communities: Heidi’s Kids has partnered with several local campuses to create clothing closets, ensuring that every student has access to quality, weatherappropriate clothes (page 22). It’s a beautiful example of compassion in action, and we hope it inspires similar giving throughout our neighborhoods.
In this issue, you’ll also meet two extraordinary moms—one from the U.S., the other from
England—who share a unique and powerful bond forged through IVF. Their story is a heartfelt reminder of the strength, hope, and sisterhood that can bloom from the most personal journeys. I am thankful to UAB for sharing their story on page 10.
For families planning one last fall getaway, our travel story (page 14) takes you to stunning Ruby Falls, where adventure and natural beauty await. And speaking of adventure, don’t miss our spotlight on an outstanding counselor and leader from Camp ASCCA on Lake Martin (page 18).
She’s making a lasting impact on campers with special needs.
As always, there’s so much more packed in these pages. Here’s to a season full of fresh starts and unforgettable memories!
Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com
Sean of the South Eulogy for the American Newspaper p. 8
Travel
Take a trip to Ruby Falls p. 14
Student Spotlight
Camp ASCCA leader p. 18
Education Update
News from local schools p. 26
Schoolhouse
Update from the Hoover School District p. 29
Happenings
September Events Calendar p. 30
FEATURE
Moms Bonded Forever
Two women unite to help bring a baby home p. 10
After the Bell Rings
Activities and ideas for post-school opportunities p. 20
Heartfelt Help
Local schools benefit from resource rooms p. 22
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Eulogy for the American Newspaper
BY SEAN DIETRICH
I miss the newspaper. Before the internet. I’m talking physical newspapers. The kind you unfold.
I miss the morning routine of it all. Walk to the end of the driveway, barefoot, pre-sunrise. Messy hair. Morning breath. Unsheath the newsprint from its plastic. Soy-based ink on your fingers. That low-grade, woodpulpy newsprint smell.
Also, I miss the design of a newspaper. A newspaper is a work of organizational art. The broadsheet layout, headlines, dropheads, bylines, datelines, section numbers, and I miss shaking open the paper with a grand gesture, organizing each section on my table, reading pages in a specific order: Funnies first. Sports next. Then, senseless acts of politics.
I miss the corny car-dealership ads. And the ultra-serious advice columns, with headlines like: “Help, my daughter says I wear ‘granny panties,’ what should I do?”
I miss the Far Side.
I miss low-quality photography, op-ed columns written by the extremely self-righteous, crossword puzzles, the classified section, and the “errata” section—I doubt people even know what that is anymore.
I used to deliver newspapers with my mother. Our lives revolved around newspapers. We have hurled—seriously—tens of thousands of papers in our lifetimes.
We serviced the majority of the continental United States in Mama’s little Nissan Altima with a heater that smelled like recently produced cat poop.
At two in the morning, sitting in her front seat, we rolled each copy into a giant enchilada, shoving each paper into a plastic wrapper, while drinking enough coffee to concern a cardiologist.
We delivered to expansive neighborhoods, subdivisions, business districts, apartment complexes, 2,000-story beach condos, newspaper machines, hotels, you name it.
But do you know what my favorite part was?
My favorite part of the delivery process came toward the end of our shift. It would be sunrise. Old folks would be standing in driveways, awaiting delivery. The newspaper was THAT important to them.
Mister Oleson stood at his mailbox while his Shih Tzu, Buddha, sniffed each blade of grass before ceremoniously peeing on it.
Mrs. Reynolds, my old Sunday school teacher, waited at the end of her driveway, wearing a mumu, hair in rollers, arms crossed, angrily tapping her foot, scowling, and just generally scaring the crap out of anyone within eyeshot.
And there was this deep feeling, even at my young age, that what we were doing mattered. Delivering the paper mattered.
Because the newspaper was essential to my people. It sort of made us a community. It kept us all on the same page, so to speak.
After all, EVERYONE read the paper. And I think that’s what I liked about it most. People weren’t as divided as they are today.
It didn’t matter if you were Catholic or Protestant. Democrat or Republican. Black, white, brown, or otherwise. University of Alabama fan, or the other kind. Truck-stop waitress or corporate CEO. Steelworker or financial advisor. Gated community resident or trailer trash, like me. Male or female. Old or young. Everyone read the paper. It was OUR newspaper. We all owned a piece of it. Because, hey, we were all in this together.
Sure, we disagreed about what was in our paper. Absolutely, we didn’t always feel warm and fuzzy toward each other. We were vicious opponents sometimes. But you know what? We all did the same crossword puzzles. We all read the same TV-guide schedules. We all clipped the same coupons.
The internet can never replace that for me.
ILLUSTRATION BY SEAN DIETRICH
Sean Dietrich
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Hope Resilience and
Two
mothers from two different countries fight for one baby’s life
BY HANNAH ECHOLS
Becca Tobin found herself at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, more than 4,000 miles away from her home in London. She watched as the medical staff at UAB Hospital rushed her newborn son, Jude, to the Regional Newborn Intensive Care Unit. While worried for the fate of her son, Becca had a second person in the hospital who was on her mind and heart. Jude’s surrogate, Zoy Ferguson, who was recovering from an emergency cesarean section. Their surrogacy journey was technically complete, but the fight for Jude’s life was far from over.
Challenges of Growing a Family
Becca and Jake Tobin welcomed their first son, Theo, in 2016. During the pregnancy, Becca developed placenta accreta, a condition where the placenta attaches to the uterine wall and can cause serious bleeding and complications.
“I needed a partial hysterectomy to save my life, but we knew that meant I may not be able to carry another child,” Becca says. “After a year of follow-ups, we were given the word that another pregnancy would be too dangerous for me.” Becca and Jake still dreamt of growing their family and started pursuing surrogacy.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UAB
Their journey led them to an agency based in the United States where they matched with Zoy, a surrogate from Fort Payne, Alabama.
Zoy, a mom of four, became a surrogate to help her best friend dealing with fertility complications. While her friend went a different route, she still felt called to be a surrogate. “When I met Becca and Jake, I knew immediately that these were my people,” Zoy says. “This was the family I was meant to help.”
The families instantly bonded during an initial virtual meeting. It was a unanimous decision to officially begin the surrogacy process. A few months later, the families received the sign they were looking for—a positive pregnancy test.
A Complicated Road to UAB
The first trimester went smoothly, with Becca and Jake making the international trek for ultrasounds and milestone appointments. At the 13-week appointment, concerns arose. By 16 weeks, serious complications had developed, and the pregnancy became high-risk.
“Jude’s chances of survival were slim, but we all knew we wanted to give him the best chances by getting the pregnancy as far along as possible,” Becca says. Fortunately, Zoy lived an hour and a half from UAB Hospital, where a team of high-risk obstetric specialists, neonatology experts, and a Level IV RNICU made it one of few places in the U.S. with the resources and knowledge to give Jude the best opportunity.
Zoy began weekly appointments with the UAB maternal-fetal medicine team. At 23 weeks, she was admitted to the UAB Women and Infants Center for continual monitoring for the duration of the pregnancy. Zoy’s and Jude’s health started to decline a week later due to an infection. To ensure their safety, Zoy needed an emergency c-section. Jude Tobin arrived on July 19, 2024, at 24 weeks and 5 days old, weighing only 1.7 pounds.
The Fight for Jude’s Life
Babies born at 24 weeks have a variety of challenges, from breathing to brain bleeds to gastrointestinal issues. For Jude, it was his lungs.
Colm Travers, M.D., a UAB neonatologist
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE TOBIN FAMILY
Zoy and Jude.
Becca, Jake, Theo, and Jude.
and associate professor in the UAB Department of Pediatrics, specializes in extremely preterm babies and met Jude during his first week in the RNICU. “At that age, the lungs are typically underdeveloped. In Jude’s case, he also had pulmonary hypoplasia, which made his lungs even more underdeveloped, stiff, and fragile,” Dr. Travers says. “It made it difficult to get him the oxygen he needed while avoiding injuring his lungs. He was exceptionally sick during his first week.”
Jude spent the next five months in the unit receiving 24/7 care from the interdisciplinary team of nurses, neonatologists, and respiratory therapists. All the while, Becca and Jake rotated between Jude’s bedside and being back home in London. “There were a lot of highs and a lot of lows. We really had to take everything day by day, hour by hour, and minute by minute,” Becca says. “And Zoy and her family were there for us every step of the way. Whether it was traveling to visit Jude or welcoming us into their home for the holidays, Zoy was our biggest cheerleader.”
For Zoy, supporting the Tobins and visiting Jude provided her healing from the roller coaster of emotions from the high-risk pregnancy. “When I got to hold him for the first time, I felt like
everything was going to be okay. It repaired a part of my heart that I didn’t realize wasn’t there,” Zoy says. “He defied all odds. He’s a miracle, and he’s amazing. He’s so perfect.”
Crossing the Pond
Despite many challenges, Jude began to improve. Once Jude came off the ventilator, the question became how to get him home to the United Kingdom.
Dr. Travers, who is from Ireland, became more than Jude’s neonatologist. He became an international liaison for the family. He contacted neonatology colleagues in the London area and connected the family with key organizations and resources. He ensured Jude’s medical information and needs were accurately translated from the American to British medical perspective.
“We use different values and medical terminology than across the Atlantic, so I was there to make sure everyone was on the same page,” Dr. Travers says. “Our goal is to get our babies home and help our families however we can, and many times that means going past our bedside care.”
On January 9, after five-and-a-half months of challenges and unknowns, Jude graduated from
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UAB
Becca and Jude.
the UAB RNICU and was transported by a medical team to a London-area hospital. Five weeks later, he was fully discharged. The Tobin family was finally reunited under one roof.
For Becca, leaving UAB and Zoy left her with mixed emotions. On one hand, Jude had improved enough to finally go home. On the other, they were saying goodbye to a place that had become their second home and a team that had become their village. “We had no clue the journey that we would end up on, but I am so grateful we ended up at UAB,”
Becca says. “Between the resources and the kindest medical staff, we couldn’t have ended up anywhere better. This is where we were supposed to be.”
While Becca and Zoy are now an ocean apart, their bond remains stronger than ever. The two recently counted down the days to Zoy’s first trans-Atlantic trip for Jude’s first birthday. “No one else could really relate to what we were both experiencing as moms. She became my person, and I was hers,” Zoy says. “I’m asked a lot if I regret it, but I could never regret helping them have Jude—ever.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE TOBIN FAMILY Zoy and Jude.
Fall Fun at Ruby Falls
Take a quick trip that truly feels like a getaway.
BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
If you’re like me, you’re probably already looking ahead to fall weekends. You know, those slower-paced Saturdays and Sundays when the weather is just right and you’re itching to get out of town but not too far from home. One of my favorite spots for a quick day trip or a weekend reset is Chattanooga, Tennessee. Ruby Falls is a popular stop in the Chattanooga area. It’s close enough to Birmingham to do in a day, but there’s so much to see that you might just want to make a weekend of it.
Ruby Falls is one of those places that people can’t stop talking about. Visitors often say it feels like stepping into a hidden world as they ride the elevator 260 feet below Lookout Mountain and follow the winding cave trail to a stunning underground waterfall.
Perfect for Families
If you’re traveling with kids, Ruby Falls is a hit. The main Cave Walk to the Waterfall is familyfriendly and led by a guide who’ll keep everyone engaged with stories, history, and fun facts about the cave and how it was discovered back in 1928. There’s a short movie at the beginning, some cool light effects, and, of course, a grand ending that leaves you standing in front of the tallest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. Visitors often describe it as an unforgettable moment.
And while Ruby Falls is fascinating for younger kids, older kids enjoy it, too. In fact, there are several specialty tours that cater to different interests and energy levels.
A Deeper Look (Literally)
If geology or science fascinates you, or if you just love a good guide who knows their stuff, the Geology Cave Adventure is something new this fall. This one’s all about understanding how the cave was formed and learning more about the formations you pass by on the way to the falls. It’s
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF RUBY FALLS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
a slower-paced tour offered on select days, and it feels more personal and immersive.
Also on the calendar this time of year is the Lantern Tour: Ghost Walk Edition. I mean, what’s more fun during spooky season than walking through an underground cave by lantern light while listening to eerie stories from Ruby Falls’s 90-plus years of history? If you have teens or if you enjoy a little mystery, this one’s for you. It’s only offered in September and October, so if you’re interested, go ahead and reserve your spot. I hear it books up fast.
Don’t Miss the View (and the Snacks)
Fall is the ideal time to visit Lookout Mountain, as the leaves are at their peak. The view from the historic Lookout Mountain Tower is stunning year-round, but when the colors begin to change, it’s truly something special. Red, orange, gold—you name it. It’s like walking into a postcard.
After your cave tour, stop in at Castle Café, located right on the property. The menu changes with the seasons, and it’s a great spot to grab lunch, a sweet treat, or even just an iced coffee while you sit and take in the mountain air. It’s casual, quick, and surprisingly good.
More Than a Waterfall
Ruby Falls is not a one-and-done kind of place. Each time you visit, there’s something new to explore. This fall, they’ve added a new history exhibit called Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence. It’s a free exhibit that tells the story of Chattanooga’s historic Black business district and its role in shaping the city. It’s powerful, beautifully curated, and worth making time for during your visit.
If your crew is up for a little more action, the High Point ZIP Adventure is available on weekends from September to November. Ziplining among the trees on the side of a mountain? If that’s your thing, go for it! There’s also a 40-foot climbing tower if you have some extra energy to burn.
Tips to Make It Easy
Pro tip: Buy your tickets online before you go. Ruby Falls operates on timed-entry, and the
popular tours (especially the seasonal ones) sell out fast. They also offer special lowsensory tours and gentle walking tours for those in your group who require a slower pace or a more sensory-friendly experience. It’s nice to know they think of everybody. Low-sensory tours require booking two weeks in advance.
General admission tickets are affordable, especially compared to other attractions of this scale, and parking is free. Its proximity to Birmingham makes it an ideal day trip, but if you want to extend it into a weekend stay, downtown Chattanooga has plenty to offer. From local eats to museums and riverfront strolls, it’s a great city to explore.
Closer Than You Think
If you’re craving a getaway that mixes adventure, beauty, history, and a little bit of magic, Ruby Falls is calling your name. No matter if you’re looking for a fun fall Saturday road trip or a weekend away with your family, it’s the kind of place that reminds you how much wonder is tucked into our corner of the South.
One counselor’s journey at Camp ASCCA A Leader at Heart
Camp ASCCA—Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults—began in 1976 and is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation. Located on 230 wooded acres at Lake Martin, they provide camping experiences for children and adults with disabilities.
BY EMERSEN SPOHR
Camp ASCCA— welcomed Emily Lamberson as one of their new Unit Leaders this past summer. Emily is from Chelsea, Alabama, and recently graduated from Auburn University. She will be furthering her education in Occupational Therapy at the University of South Alabama this fall.
Emily’s journey with Camp ASCCA began four years ago, when she first learned about the camp through a presentation given by program director Amber Cotney at the Human Development and Family Science Professional Club at Auburn. Inspired by the opportunity to make a difference, Emily applied and began her summer as a counselor. She then transitioned to the adventure program staff, gaining valuable experience. This past summer, Emily stepped into the role of unit leader, where she brought her knowledge and passion for building relationships with campers. There was a shared sense of excitement about Emily’s journey as we welcomed her to her new position, sure of the
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CAMP ASCCA
positive impact she continues to have within our community.
Emily loves Camp ASCCA because she enjoys reconnecting with familiar campers and building strong friendships. She expressed her enthusiasm for the camp, stating, “My favorite part of camp is connecting with the campers. It has been so much fun to nurture those friendships over the last four years.” Her dedication to these connections highlights the camp’s commitment to inclusivity and support.
“The true, genuine love that our campers have makes these relationships so rewarding and special. The campers are what truly make ASCCA my favorite place on earth.” Emily’s affection for Camp ASCCA is unparalleled. Her presence not only eases the campers but also comforts the counselors.
Camp ASCCA takes pride in having dedicated individuals like Emily, who significantly contribute to the transformative camp experience. During the last weeks of summer camp, Emily showed remarkable growth as a unit leader, proving that she has
always had the qualities of a leader at heart. The staff at Camp ASCCA looks forward to watching her continue to develop in her leadership role and the lasting memories she will help create for campers in the summers.
For more information about Camp ASCCA, visit campascca.org.
Beyond the Bell
These after-school programs and extracurriculars are perfect for the time between the school bell and the dinner bell.
After-school hours are more than just a break from the classroom—they’re a prime opportunity for kids to explore new interests, build confidence, and connect with others. Whether it’s through sports, the arts, or additional school programs, these activities play a vital role in shaping well-rounded students. And, let’s face it: They help us parents, too. We’re fortunate to have access to a rich variety of programs provided by local schools, community centers, and nonprofits dedicated to youth development. From farm clubs to dance classes, these programs offer kids a safe, supportive space to grow.
This month, we’re highlighting just a few of the standout programs for local children and teens. There are a variety of options for every age and
interest, including low-cost and free programs that ensure all families can participate. Whether you’re seeking a new outlet for your child’s energy or looking to keep him positively entertained until your work day ends, these options will help you discover the best fit. This isn’t a comprehensive list, so feel free to reach out to us if you know a program we should feature in an upcoming issue.
The Levite Jewish Community Center bhamjcc.org
After-School Care at the Levite JCC offers extra help between the time school releases and parents finish up at work. The supervised Monday-Friday program at the J fills the gap with homework help, games, crafts, and fun.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JONES VALLEY TEACHING FARM
Jones Valley Teaching Farm jvtf.org
Farm Club - Here, students steward their school’s Teaching Farm, planting, growing, harvesting, and cooking fresh produce they grow themselves. Standards-based projects help students connect sustainable farming practices and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Student-Run Markets - Each fall and spring, student teams sell produce to their teachers, parents, and community members. Through an accompanying curriculum, they learn how to apply math skills and learn best practices for running a small business.
Culinary Club - At this program, kids learn to use basic kitchen utensils and appliances while creating fresh meals they can re-create at home.
YMCA After-School Childcare ymcabham.org/afterschool
The childcare program at the YMCA was created to help kids developmentally and academically. There, they cultivate values and skills to help them improve in the classroom and community. Options include exploring
interests and talents; quiet spaces for homework and studying; STEM activities; games and other physical activity; and social-emotional learning. Local programs are available for Homewood, Hoover, and Trussville schools; Jefferson County and Birmingham City Schools; and at the YMCA Youth Center.
Red Mountain Theatre redmountaintheatre.org/classes
For activities that build confidence and creativity, look no further than Red Mountain Theatre fall classes. They are a great way to engage in the performing arts with classes such as tap, theatre dance/tap, acting, and more. They offer classes for a variety of ages and experience levels.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JONES VALLEY TEACHING FARM
PHOTOGRAPH BY STEPHANIE LEPORE
Bringing Heart and Help
Two new resource rooms equipped with free clothing closets are transforming kids’ lives.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
In two elementary schools—Minor and Center Point—Heidi’s Kids brings caring to the classroom. Two recently opened Emotional Support Resource Rooms stocked with essentials and staffed by counselors have opened alongside Heidi’s Closet, small free “stores” where students can shop for items they need. Together, these initiatives help to nurture children’s self esteem, meet basic needs, and foster emotional wellbeing.
“Through partnerships with local businesses and other nonprofits, Heidi’s Kids can supply our Emotional Support Resource Rooms not only with basic necessities, but also with items that bring hope and joy, such as birthday party kits and Halloween costumes. Teachers and counselors can access these rooms without any paperwork to retrieve what they need for their students,” says founder and CEO Heidi Marimberga.
The Kid’s Market, Little Lavender, and The High Bidder Club generously donated clothing to stock the closets, and school liaison Faith Garner oversees the closets, personally selecting items and ensuring each one is well-supplied and ready to meet the students’ needs.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF HEIDI’S KIDS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22
Heidi’s Kids is so excited for the opportunity to meet many basic needs for the precious children in these schools,” says Faith. “Our clothes closets are stocked with mint condition pre-owned clothing supplied by local donors. Every child deserves to have these fundamental needs provided, and we are doing just that!”
Each room is equipped with therapy tools and supplies, including calming tents, sensory walls, and tools to help children manage their emotions. Additionally, the rooms contain school supplies — from pencils to backpacks — and hygiene items like deodorant, soap, shampoo, and dental hygiene kits donated by Grants Mill Family Dentistry. We also provide emergency take-home food that can be placed in a child’s backpack as needed.
“One of the greatest benefits of these rooms is that teachers can access the resources they need for students right within the building, making a real difference in supporting our children,” says Heidi.
Currently, Heidi’s Kids has four Emotional Support Resource Rooms—at Center
Point, Minor, Irondale, and Grants Wood elementary schools—which serve 2,000 children in Jefferson County. With these peaceful, cozy rooms and clothing closets, Heidi’s Kids is transforming schools into safe, supportive spaces where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
Soccer coaching legend hired at Vestavia Hills
Vestavia Hills High School is welcoming a new era of boys’ soccer leadership with the hiring of David Di Piazza as the program’s new head coach. The Vestavia Hills Board of Education officially approved Di Piazza’s appointment, bringing one of Alabama’s most accomplished high school soccer coaches to the Rebels’ sidelines. With more than 540 career coaching victories and 7 AHSAA state championships, Di Piazza arrives at VHHS following a successful tenure at Oak Mountain High School, where he led the boys’ soccer team to four consecutive Final Four appearances as well as a 7A state championship in 2024.
“Coach Di Piazza has unmatched experience and a track record of building championship programs,” says incoming VHCS Athletic Director Laura Casey. “He leads with integrity, expects excellence, and deeply values the growth of student-athletes both on and off the field.”
In addition to his recent success at Oak Mountain, Di Piazza previously coached at John Carroll Catholic High School and served in collegiate roles at Birmingham-Southern College, Wallace State Community College, and Samford University. His accolades include multiple Coach of the Year honors from the NFHS, United Soccer Coaches, and local media organizations.
A Birmingham-Southern College alumnus, Di Piazza holds a master’s degree in education from UAB and is certified at the highest levels of soccer coaching in the United States.
Vestavia Hills City Schools Welcomes 60 New Teachers
Vestavia Hills City Schools recently welcomed 60 new teachers to the district, marking an exciting start to the upcoming school year. These talented educators bring a wealth of experience, passion, and enthusiasm to the VHCS community. Students and families will soon have the opportunity to connect with these new faculty members, who are ready to make a positive impact in classrooms across the district.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF VESTAVIA CITY SCHOOLS FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL FACEBOOK
Oak Mountain High School Announces New Coaches
Oak Mountain High School is entering a new era of athletics with the appointment of three dynamic leaders to its varsity coaching staff. The school recently named Keegan McQueen as head varsity boys’ soccer coach, Telma O’Neal as head varsity softball coach, and PJ Guy as head varsity baseball coach. Each brings a unique blend of experience, leadership, and enthusiasm to their respective programs, setting the stage for a strong future in Eagle athletics.
Keegan McQueen Head Varsity Boys’ Soccer Coach
Coach Keegan McQueen takes the helm of the Oak Mountain boys’ soccer program, one of the most successful in the state. A former collegiate player and experienced coach, McQueen is known for his tactical knowledge, player development, and commitment to excellence. His passion for the sport and vision for the team align with Oak Mountain’s tradition of championshiplevel soccer. McQueen is eager to continue the legacy while putting his own stamp on the program.
Telma O’Neal Head Varsity Softball Coach
Oak Mountain also welcomes Telma O’Neal as the new head varsity softball coach. O’Neal brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience and is highly respected for her ability to build strong, disciplined teams. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes leadership, accountability, and player growth on and off the field. With a deep love for the game and a focus on creating a positive team culture, O’Neal is poised to make a lasting impact on the Eagles’ softball program.
PJ Guy Head Varsity Baseball Coach
Leading the varsity baseball team will be PJ Guy, a seasoned coach known for his strategic approach and emphasis on fundamentals. Guy has a track record of developing competitive teams and fostering a winning mindset among his players. He brings high energy and high expectations to the program and is ready to guide the Eagles into a new chapter of success.
Oak Mountain High School is proud to welcome these three outstanding coaches to its athletic department. With their leadership, the Eagles are looking forward to continued growth, strong team culture, and athletic excellence across soccer, softball, and baseball programs.
Hoover City Schools Educators Energized by 2025 LTI Conference
Teachers from Hoover City Schools leveled up at the 2025 Learn Teach Inspire (LTI) Conference recently, diving into fresh strategies, exchanging ideas, and learning best practices from fellow educators and professionals from across the state. The conference provided a week full of growth and preparation for what promises to be an incredible school year. With less than two weeks until students return, the excitement across the district is building.
Berry Middle School Students Build Skills and Confidence at Camp Legacy
Rising 6th graders from Berry Middle School recently participated in Camp Legacy, a dynamic program led by the Hoover Police Department School Resource Officers. The camp offered students the opportunity to explore leadership, law enforcement, life skills, and the importance of leaving a positive legacy.
Throughout the week, campers engaged in hands-on activities such as K9 demonstrations,
CPR training, fingerprinting, drone operations, fire safety, and leadership exercises. A highlight of the week was a visit from meteorologist James Spann, who shared valuable advice about the importance of doing well in school and making wise decisions. Camp Legacy was a memorable experience filled with teamwork, learning, and fun, an inspiring way to prepare for the transition to middle school.
EVENTS CALENDAR
Wicked September 3-21
Wicked will come to Birmingham as part of the Broadway in Birmingham series at the the BJCC Concert Hall, with a limited engagement of 24 performances, featuring Jessie Davidson as Elphaba and Zoe Jensen as Glinda in the traveling national production of the Tony-winning musical. For showtimes and tickets, visit bjcc.org.
Birmingham Artwalk
September 5-6
Artwalk is a two-day arts festival that transforms Birmingham’s downtown neighborhood into an arts district, featuring the work of more than 100+ visual artists, live musicians, street performers, food and drink vendors, and children’s activities. For more information, visit birminghamartwalk.org.
Raffle Run
September 6
This unique running event allows participants to earn raffle tickets for every lap they complete. The more laps a runner finishes within the allotted time, the more chances they have to win one of several prizes. The race starts at 7 a.m. and will be held at Veteran’s Park at 4800 Valleydale Road. Find details at runsignup.com/Race/AL/Birmingham/RaffleRun.
Tinglewood Festival
September 6
It’s worth a drive to Montevallo for this event that includes live chainsaw wood carving, woodworking vendors, a whittling contest, and a wooden boat race. There will also be a classic car show, children’s activities, food vendors, and live music. For more information, visit tinglewoodfestival.com.
James Taylor
September 10
James Taylor will perform in Birmingham as part of his An Evening with James Taylor tour, joined by special guest opening act Tiny Habits. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Coca-Cola Amphitheater. For more information, visit coca-colaamphitheater.com.
Fiesta BHM
September 27
Visit themed villages—Cultural, Food, Health & Wellness, Community, Sponsors, and Stage—during this family-friendly festival that celebrates Hispanic
arts and culture at Linn Park. For more information, visit fiestabham.com.
Together in Teal — Live Butterfly Release for Ovarian Cancer Awareness
September 14
The event will feature live music, vendor displays, and educational booths. Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation hosts this annual event to raise awareness of ovarian cancer’s silent signs and symptoms, remember those who have lost their lives and honor those who are battling or have beaten ovarian cancer. The event begins at 2:30 p.m. and will be held at Aldridge Gardens located at 3520 Lorna Road in Hoover. Learn more at cureovariancancer.org
The Crooner & the Cowboy: Leon Bridges with Charley Crockett
September 17
Leon Bridges and Charley Crockett are co-headlining The Crooner & The Cowboy Tour in Birmingham at 7:30 at the Coca-Cola Amphitheater, with special guests Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore supporting the show. Learn more at coca-colaamphitheater.com.
Head Over Teal 5K & 10K
September 20
The 16th annual 5K & 10K is dedicated to raising awareness for gynecologic cancers and benefiting the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation. Shuttle service available starting at 6:30 a.m. from Prince of Peace Catholic Church. The race starts at 8 a.m. in The Preserve at 616 Preserve Parkway. Learn more at thinkoflaura.org
Vintage Market Days presents Timeless Autumn
September 25-27
Enjoy an upscale, vintage-inspired indoor and outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry and home décor from a wide variety of vendors. The event will be open to the public from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at The Finley Center located at 5508 Stadium Trace Parkway in Hoover. Learn more at vintagemarketdays.com.
Jason Aldean
September 26
Jason Aldean will bring his tour to the Coca-Cola Amphitheater at 7:30 p.m. Learn more at coca-colaamphitheater.com.
every child takes center stage.
At Children’s of Alabama, kids are the center of our world and our mission is to provide the very best care available to every child. It’s why we are here.
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