OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM
SOCIAL
SPORTS
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2022
HEALTH FOCUS Exercising and eating right in 2022
Photo by Leslie Hollingsworth
Weddings Are Back
Styles in Wedding Dresses and Wedding Formats Shift as Busiest Wedding Year in Almost 40 Years Commences
WHAT’S NEW IN 2022?
2 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OPINION/CONTENTS
Inside
Murphy’s Law
Good Grief, Charlie Brown, It’s The Dot Diet
B HEALTH FOCUS Exercising and eating right in 2022 PAGE 8
THE YEAR OF WEDDINGS Styles in wedding dresses and wedding formats shift as busiest wedding year in almost 40 years commences PAGE 20
WE RISE Homewood High School band member reflects on marching in the Rose Parade in Pasadena. PAGE 25
ABOUT TOWN 4 WEDDINGS 20 NEWS 6 PEOPLE 25 LIFE 8 SPORTS 28 SOCIAL 11
otmj.com With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area. To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
J O U R N A L January 13, 2022 Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writer: Ally Morrison Photographer: Jordan Wald Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd
Over the Mountain Views
Santa Sighting
Vestavia Hills Chamber Hosts Annual Breakfast with Santa Children were treated to more than just a holiday pancake breakfast on Dec. 11 as the city of Vestavia Hills and Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Breakfast with Santa at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center. Families were greeted by Vestavia Belles and had the chance to meet with Santa, share their Christmas wishes and pose for photos.
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
ALL THAT JAZZ This Year’s Jazz Cat Ball honors Scott “Reg” Register for years of work with GBHS PAGE 4
oy, I had fun over the holidays ton of ice cream in the sink to melt and … and boy, does it show. I closed my eyes as I dumped the rest of don’t want to brag, but I may the hot chocolate Chex mix directly have graduated to an entirely new pants into the trash. The peppermint patties I size. kept, because, thankfully, they were That’s not good, of course. Health Dot Diet allowed, just not at my previissues and all that. Nope, it’s time to ous rate of consumption. initiate the Dot Diet. I can make stir-fry, but I’d rather eat My Aunt Dot is a certified force of soup, so I decided to simply throw a nature. At age 89, she is trim and sharp boatload of similar vegetables into a and spunky. Her energy level puts me pot with some broth and let them simto shame. When my sister and I arrived mer. Don’t tell Aunt Dot, but I’m going at her Florida house last November, she to cheat and throw in a potato now and Sue Murphy was rearranging a large pile of rocks in then. They’re high in potassium, right? her flower beds, all of which she had At least that’s what I’ve been telling personally hauled back from the myself all these years. Even if beach at some point. Later, when I they’re not, for me, life without had the audacity to suggest that, potatoes would be cruel and unusual I can withstand instead of parking in the free lot punishment. a lot of culinary across a busy thoroughfare, we I know she told me, but I don’t hardship if I know might avail ourselves of a restaurant remember what Aunt Dot has for valet service, she snorted, “Oh, breakfast. I suspect it’s something that there’s a piece Good Grief, Charlie Brown! The like oatmeal, which I’m doing of chocolate waiting already. Look at me being halfway walk will do you good.” At the restaurant, my aunt to healthy! I don’t think you get a for me at the end. ordered a salad with grilled shrimp peppermint patty after the oatmeal, but was quick to point out that this though. wasn’t her usual fare. At home, she I know I cannot do the Dot Diet made vegetable stir fry every night, sometimes with long term. There will be days when the smell of hot bisbroccoli, sometimes Brussels sprouts. Her mid-morning cuits drifting from the Chick-fil-A drive-thru will get the snack consisted of a handful of trail mix and three best of me. I will come across a brownie in a bakery (count them, three) dried apricots. Her life wasn’t all case that is distinctively calling my name. But, in the twigs and berries, though, because at the end of her main first few months (weeks?) of 2022, I’m going to try to meal, she always allowed herself one peppermint patty. keep the picture of Aunt Dot firmly in mind and go forGiven that, over the holidays, I personally put away ward as best I can. Just don’t take away the peppermint three (count them, three) truckloads of peppermint patties. I can withstand a lot of culinary hardship if I Christmas cookies, I knew it would be in my best interknow that there’s a piece of chocolate waiting for me at est to follow Aunt Dot’s example, at least for a while. the end. The cookies had to go. They were getting stale anySo, here we go. Dot Diet Day One. Good Grief, way, but that never stopped me before. I set the last carCharlie Brown. I forgot to buy the apricots.
Vol. 32, No. 11
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2022 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.
Santa with AJ and Andrew Elliott.
Camille, Kyra, Hugh and Chris Anderson.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 3
JAN. 13 - JAN. 27 Editor’s note: Some of the events in our calendar may have been canceled after our press deadline. Please check organization websites and social media for the latest information
Through Jan. 17
Experience an animal based lights show this winter. Purchase tickets for the animal lantern light exhibit online, or at the ticket office. Where: Birmingham Zoo When: 5-9 p.m. Website: birminghamzoo.com
Sat., Jan. 15 Saturdays in the Gardens: Houseplants
Take a tour of the Conservatory, all while learning from tour guides how to garden like a professional. Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens Conservatory When: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Website: bbgardens.org
MLK Day 5K Drum Run
The 6th Annual MLK Day 5K Drum Run is back. The 5K will have an 8:00am start time, and the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk for youth ages 12 and under will begin at 9 a.m. When: 7 a.m. Where: Historic 4th Avenue Business District, 1700 4th Ave N, Birmingham Website: “2022 MLK Day 5K Drum
Photo courtesy
Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration
PENN & TELLER: FOOL US! | SUN., JAN. 23
World class magician David Garrard will be sprinkling magic in The Magic City at Birmingham’s Historic Lyric Theatre. The show will also feature Garrard’s friend and fellow musician, Tommy Ellison. The show will benefit Magic Moments, a wish-granting organization who provides joy to children in Alabama diagnosed with chronic, life-threatening illnesses. Where: Historic Lyric Theatre When: 2-5 p.m. Website: magicmoments.org
Run- Birmingham” Facebook event.
Mon., Jan. 17 Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute celebrates Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday. The event will be free admission. Where: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, 520 16th St N, Birmingham When: 9
a.m-5 p.m. Website: bcri.org
Jan., 19-23 Dear Evan Hansen The Musical The six time Tony Award Winning Best Musical, Dear Evan Hansen will be performed by Broadway In Birmingham. Where: BJCC Website: broadwayinbirmingham. com
ABOUT TOWN continued on page 5
cookmuseum.org
Now Under One Roof! 4 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
Two Great Showrooms, Now Under One Roof!
Photo courtesy GBHS
Two Great Showrooms, Now Under One Roof! Jazz Cat Ball honoree Scott Register, center, with Auxiliary Board members from left: Tricia Preston, Allison Black Cornelius (GBHS CEO), Toni Seales, Scott Register, Donna O’Brien, Julie Clemons, Celeste David, and Jocelyn Bradley Palmer. Board members not pictured: Robert Alden, Margaret Ellis, Missy Ellis, Sharyn Gaston, Ramona Graffeo, Donna Hightower, Sharon Jackson, Christy King, Cele and Allen Montgomery, Susan Norman, Melanie Perry, and Sara Sciara.
All That Jazz
Steve Mote & Family—Owners of Hollywood Pools Outdoor Furnishings & Spas are excited to announce the acquisition of Alabama Gaslight & Grill! Formerly located in Homewood and owned by long-time Vestavia Hills resident Mike Barnett, Alabama Gaslight & Grill offers a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric lighting, Steve and gasMote logs. & Combined with Hollywood of Steve Mote &Family—Owners Family—Owners of Pool’s outstanding inventoryOutdoor of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, Hollywood HollywoodPools Pools OutdoorFurnishings Furnishings& &Spas Spas the Vestavia Hills location is your one-stop shop for outdoor are to announce the of areexcited excited announce theacquisition acquisition of products fromto local families you know and trust.
Alabama AlabamaGaslight Gaslight& &Grill! Grill!
Formerly located Formerly locatedin inHomewood Homewood and ownedby bylong-time long-time 1441 Montgomery Hwyand | owned Vestavia Hills Vestavia VestaviaHills Hillsresident residentMike MikeBarnett, Barnett,Alabama AlabamaGaslight Gaslight& &Grill Grill (205) 979-7727 | www.hollywoodpoolandspa.com offers a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric offers a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric lighting, and logs. Combined with lighting,Steve andgas gas logs.& Combined withHollywood Hollywood Pool’s Mote Family—Owners of Pool’s outstanding inventory of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, outstanding inventory of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, Hollywood Pools Outdoor Furnishings & Spas the theVestavia VestaviaHills Hillslocation locationis isyour yourone-stop one-stopshop shopfor foroutdoor outdoor are excited to announce the acquisition of products productsfrom fromlocal localfamilies familiesyou youknow knowand andtrust. trust.
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Formerly located in Homewood by long-time 1441 Hwy || owned Vestavia Hills 1441 Montgomery Montgomery Hwyand Vestavia Hills Vestavia Hills resident Mike Barnett, Alabama Gaslight & Grill (205) 979-7727 || www.hollywoodpoolandspa.com (205) www.hollywoodpoolandspa.com offers979-7727 a wide selection of gas grills & smokers, gas & electric lighting, and gas logs. Combined with Hollywood Pool’s outstanding inventory of pool, spa, and patio furnishings, the Vestavia Hills location is your one-stop shop for outdoor products from local families you know and trust.
1441 Montgomery Hwy | Vestavia Hills (205) 979-7727 | www.hollywoodpoolandspa.com
This Year’s Jazz Cat Ball Honors Scott “Reg” Register for Years of Work With GBHS By Ally Morrison
The Greater Birmingham Humane Society will be hosting the 11th Annual Jazz Cat Ball on April 30 at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel ballroom. Scott Register, radio personality and former GBHS board member, is this year’s honoree. Register, better known as “Reg,” said he was thrilled and humbled to be selected as this year’s honoree. “If I can help them raise money and continue to give a voice to the voiceless, that’s a thrill and an honor to me,” Register said. Before working as the host of The Morning Blend with Reg & Will along with Reg’s Coffee House for Birmingham Mountain Radio, Register worked in marketing and advertising in Birmingham. He was recommended for a seat on the board of The Greater Birmingham Humane Society, where he would go on to serve for about 12 years. Register fell in love with the GBHS and holds its mission dear to his heart. “It was a natural fit for me. I’m a big animal lover and their mission is an important one that makes the community a better place to live in,” Register said. Register has attended multiple Jazz Cat events and was even crowned King of the Jazz Cat Ball a few years ago. “The Jazz Cat Ball is a huge fundraising event for the humane society, it takes a lot of money to do what they do on a daily basis.” Register said. “It’s not just about the pets, but it’s about the people, too. The Jazz Cat Ball is a great opportunity for everyone to get together and celebrate their mission. I always leave with a smile on my face.” Register is celebrating 25 years of Reg’s Coffee House this month. In addition to his radio gig, he also works for Think Indie Distribution, a distribution company that sells vinyls, CDs and merchandise to record stores around the world.
“Somehow, my hobby became my job 25 years ago and continues to be today, where I am lucky enough to do it in Birmingham,” Register said. Register was born and raised in the Birmingham area, having grown up in Vestavia Hills, where he lives with his wife, Dr. Shae Hicks Register, a veterinarian, and their four children. The humane society was founded by Dr. John Herbert Phillips in 1883, during the same time he founded the Birmingham school system and public library system. Its mission is to promote the humane treatment of humans and animals. The Jazz Cat Ball is one of the largest animal welfare fundraisers in the country, with a casino, live music and giveaways. This year’s live music will be performed by The Big Beyond. It originally was planned for Feb. 5, but that was changed to April 30 because of the recent rise in COVID cases. The Jazz Cat Ball is one of the largest animal welfare fundraisers in the country, with a casino, live music, and giveaways. This year’s live music will be performed by The Big Beyond. “Proceeds from the Jazz Cat Ball go towards our annual budget, as we do a lot of school based education classes, cruelty investigations, and we are one of the largest disaster response units in the Southeast.” Cornelius said. “We usually raise over $600,000, but this years hope is $1 million.” The event will also provide funding for the GBHS externship program, which provides surgical education and training for fourth-year veterinarian students from Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Tuskegee University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The Greater Birmingham Humane Society plans to build a new campus on Lakeshore Parkway in 2022, a $40 million economic development project.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN continued from page 3
Jan. 20 - Feb. 6 Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical Enjoy a performance based on the 1980 comedy movie that featured Dolly Parton. When: Thurs., - Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun., at 2:30 p.m. Where: Virginia Samford Theatre Website: virginiasamfordtheatre.org
Sat., Jan. 22 Winter Warm-Up 2022
Bodies Race Company event series will feature a 5K, 10K, and a Virtual Race. Registration includes a race t-shirt and a custom finisher medal. When: 9-11a.m. Where: Linn Park, 20th St N, Birmingham Website: runsignup.com.
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 5
ABOUT TOWN Photographer Ken Boyd
Birmingham photographer and author Ken Boyd will be speaking. Coffee and refreshments served before the presentation begins. When: 10 - 11:30 a.m. Where: Vestavia Hills Library Community Room Website: vestavialibrary.org
International Holocaust Remembrance Day Commemoration
The Birmingham Holocaust Education Center will observe International Holocaust Remembrance Day with an educational event featuring second generation survivor, Esther Levy. Levy will be sharing her family’s experience and the event will feature a Q&A.
Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall When: 5 - 6:30 p.m. Website: bhecinfo.org
SAVE THE DATE
Feb. 11-27
Ragtime), comes the Olivier Awardwinning musical Once on This Island. When. Thurs. - Sun. times vary. Where: RMT Main Stage Website: redmountaintheatre.com
RMT: Once On This Island
From the Tony Award-winning songwriting team of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Seussical,
Tues., Feb. 1 Marching Forward: Musical Reflection on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sale Ends Monday, January 31
ASO Concertmaster Daniel Szasz and friends pay tribute to the iconic Civil Rights leader. When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Samford University Brock Recital Hall Website: alabamasymphony.org
It’s Hanna Antique Mall’s biggest sale of the year.
Save
Wed., Jan. 26
10% to 50%
Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce Annual Luncheon
on our huge selection of furniture, rugs, accessories, glassware, china, jewelry & silver.
The Chamber will be hosting its annual luncheon, with lunch and networking opportunities. The Chamber will honor Jemison Visionary Award Winner, Rob Burton of Hoar Construction. Where: Country Club of Birmingham When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Website:mtnbrookchamber.org
2424 7th Avenue South • 323-6036
MON-SAT 10:00-5:00
Thurs., Jan. 27
Major Credit Cards & Layaways Accepted
HANNA ANTIQUE MALL
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NEWS
6 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
WHAT’S NEW IN 2022? A Lot, According to Mountain Brook and Hoover Officials
By Ally Morrison From wrapping up work on sidewalks to narrowing in on plans to build a full performing arts center, there are many projects and plans on the books this year in Mountain Brook and Hoover. City officials with both areas speak on their plans for the year. In our Jan. 27 issue we’ll highlight Homewood and Vestavia Hills.
‘We are working very closely with the city of Homewood, talking as one unit and one voice to ensure the new development [Brookwood Village Mall property] is conducive to both of our cities.’ MOUNTAIN BROOK CITY MANAGER SAM GASTON
Mountain Brook area also will be restored. The Caldwell Mill Road bridge and the Old Brook Trail bridge will be replaced, and the Canterbury Road bridge will be rehabilitated. Gaston attributes every accomplishment he has had in his years with the city to the team he has been able to build. “We’ve built a wonderful staff here in the city of Mountain Brook.” Gaston said. “When you hire good people and take care of your people, they will take care of your customers. It’s all about the team, and we have a
great team.”
Hoover
Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato was elected in 2016 after having previously served with the Hoover Fire Department. “I served with the fire department for 42 years, and every day of my career was different. Not much changed when I became mayor,” Brocato said. “My most notable achievement has been the impact we have made on people’s lives, serving
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Mountain Brook City Manager Sam Gaston, who has been in that position for 29 years, said the city has started several improvements that will be continued into next year. “We’re finishing up a lot of athletic improvements, and hopefully in about two months we will have a totally new athletic complex at Mountain Brook High School,” Gaston said. “The complex was built in the late ‘80s and over time has gotten outdated. It will be a total makeover for our very active sports programs.” The plans for the complex include new restrooms, a new concession stand, playground equipment, security cameras and walkways. Birmingham-based Fairway Investments and Atlanta-based Pope & Land Enterprises purchased a bulk of Brookwood Village Mall in August 2021 with plans to transform the struggling mall. “We are working very closely with the city of Homewood, talking as one unit and one voice to ensure the new development is conducive to both of our cities.” Gaston said. Gaston said three bridges in the
By Ally Morrison
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Mountain Brook
Hoover Unveils Marketing Campaign, “Love to Live in Hoover”
‘We do know that, as shopping patterns change, the Galleria will one day look like a mixed-use type of campus.’ HOOVER MAYOR FRANK BROCATO
the people of Hoover.” Brocato’s plans for the new year include the development of a state-ofthe-art performing arts center. The goal for the development is to showcase Broadway shows and musical and entertainment acts. Some of the locations being considered include the Patton Creek Shopping Venue and the Riverchase Galleria Mall. “We do very well with our sports and recreation; however, I see a need for this performing arts center to address the aspect of art. We need a place for our children to perform.” Brocato said. In addition to the construction of a new performing arts center, the city of Hoover is working hard with owners of the Galleria on plans for redevelopment of the mall. “We do know that, as shopping patterns change, the Galleria will one day look like a mixed-use type of campus,” Brocato said. In the past year, the city of Hoover opened a new training center for the Hoover Police Department. “Police are being scrutinized all around the country, but we’ve had the opportunity to open this facility. It’s important for how they police in our community,” Brocato said. The city also is continuing to work on making the city more walkable. The installation of many sidewalks and trails will allow residents to walk to coffee shops, retail areas and restaurants. As 2021 comes to a close, Mountain Brook and Hoover officials say they will continue actively working to improve each community by prioritizing the needs of their citizens.
The city of Hoover has launched a celebratory marketing campaign, “Love to Live in Hoover,” after being named “The Best Place to Live in Alabama” by news and commentary website 24/7 Wall St. during the summer. “I’ve always thought Hoover was the best place to live in our beloved state for many, many years,” Hoover Mayor Frank V. Brocato said. “But to have a publication that studies cities and states deem that same sentiment — it is an honor.” According to a press release from the city, the campaign was revealed during a Dec. 17 news conference in which Brocato was joined by Hoover City Council President John Lydia, Jefferson County Commissioner Jimmie Stephens and Shelby County Commissioner Lindsey Allison. “It’s truly a great day for the city of Hoover. Today didn’t happen by accident. It required leadership both past and present,” Jefferson County Commissioner Jimmie Stephens said. “It didn’t come by chance. It came by hard work, cooperation, good governance. But most importantly, it came with a sense of community,” he said. “If you don’t have that and working together, it’s all for naught.” The marketing campaign was created by Content Logistix, a Hoover-based marketing company. The campaign includes a video highlighting various sites around Hoover, interstate banners over I-459 at the Lorna Road Bridge and banners at the Alford Avenue exit. In addition, the campaign features three 8-foot hearts placed at City Hall, along U.S. 280 and along Alabama 150. The campaign also includes more than 30 3-foot hearts placed in many significant locations around the city, including Veterans Park, Moss Rock Preserve, Aldridge Gardens, Spain Park and Hoover high schools, Tip Top and the Hoover Folklore Center. Residents of Hoover are invited to take photos with the installments and post to social media by scanning the QR code found on the hearts. This QR code will direct residents to post their personal photo on the campaign Facebook and Instagram pages, both titled “Love to Live in Hoover.” “This is a reflection of the wonderful people who live here, the amazing businesses that choose to operate in our city, our amazing school district and our dedicated city employees,” Brocato said. “As mayor, I could not be more proud of who we are as Hoover. I can honestly say – I love to live in Hoover.”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
NEWS
What Their Clients Say
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 7
LIFE
8 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
HEALTH FOCUS I EXERCISING AND EATING RIGHT IN 2022
Fresh, Unusual, Healthy
BLUEROOT Brings West Coast Healthy Food Into a Comfort Food Culture
By Rubin E. Grant Usually the start of a new year brings more clients to the Three15 cycling studio in Homewood, with folks looking to honor their resolutions of shedding a few pounds and improving their fitness. But this year is different. Because the COVID-19 pandemic continues to linger, there haven’t been as many people signing up for classes this month, especially at the downtown Birmingham Three15 studio. “At the start of the year, we usually see a big jump in members,” said Mandy Moseley, owner and creator of Three15. “As far as I can tell, our classes in Homewood are still busy, but our downtown studio has been affected the most. A lot our clientele downtown haven’t returned to their offices where they work. We can definitely tell it’s different.” Moseley opened the Homewood Three15 studio in July 2017 on Oxmoor Road in Edgewood. Since then, she has added two more studios, the one in Birmingham and another in Tuscaloosa, which hasn’t seen a COVID-related slowdown in membership. Another studio was scheduled to open Monday in Huntsville after a lengthy delay. “We were going to open it in the spring of last year but didn’t because of COVID,” Moseley said. “It’s affected workers and it’s trickled down to everybody. It’s kind of put us in a pinch, but everybody has some issues.” COVID also has changed the dynamics of how people spend their
WORK IT
High-Energy Three15 Cycling Studio Dealing With Effects of COVID money for fitness training. “What I’ve seen the past two years is people have bought their own exercise equipment for working out at home, and others have seen their financial situations change, so they cannot afford exercise classes,” Moseley said. “Others still fear being in an exercise studio. I think we’ll be dealing with all of those issues for the foreseeable future.”
Unique Workout
Moseley understands the time and energy required to maintain fitness and not just because of her studio. She is the mother of four athletes. Her sons Harvey Ray, a senior tight end, and Woods Ray, a junior quarterback, played football for Homewood last fall. Harvey will play in college at Jacksonville State. Her daughter, Annie Ray, plays basketball for Homewood Middle School, and her older son, Alex Ray, also played football with the Patriots before graduating in 2020. Three15 began as Moseley’s brainchild to combine three of her favorite workouts into one unique class. The concept features 15 minutes of cycling, 15 minutes of barre exercise and 15 minutes of strength training in a high-energy fitness studio. Moseley also has initiated a fran-
Mandy Moseley, owner and creator of Three15.
chise option for the public. “I used to be in pharmaceutical sales and that taught me so much about business, so I combined that with my love for fitness,” Moseley said. “My degree is in nutrition from Alabama and I taught exercise classes in college. I’ve always had a love for fitness, but there wasn’t any exercise programs that combined cycling and barre. You either had one or the other, but we combine several different things. “My husband, Chad, inspired me to go ahead because I love barre and I love spinning. At the studio, you get cardio and strength work and toning. You need time for that type of workout.” Moseley’s challenging workout classes and the other instructors’ classes last for 55 minutes. Moseley teaches four or five times a week, encouraging her clients to push themselves. “I actually tell my instructors that when they’re up there on that platform to not see themselves as someone special,” Moseley said. “We just have a louder voice, motivating and inspiring and pushing our clients to get the most out of their workout. “A lot of our clients didn’t play sports in high school or college and are not athletes, so they have not worked this hard exercising before. We have a few men, but it’s primarily women. We want them to work around being uncomfortable and challenge them. I think it helps them mentally as well as physically.” For more information about Three15, visit www.three15studio.com
The West Coast meets the Deep South at BLUEROOT, where owner Jennifer Ryan aims to make healthy eating accessible and approachable. Opening a restaurant that serves healthy food in a comfort food culture can be challenging at times, but Ryan looks at the opening of BLUEROOT as an opportunity to provide information, education and new options to the people of Birmingham. Ryan hopes that people will be interested and curious enough to try new things and be pleasantly surprised by choices they may not have selected originally. Located in Mountain Brook Village, the West Coast-infused menu at BLUEROOT already is a healthy fan favorite. Ryan welcomed Over the Mountain food enthusiasts into her family-owned and operated outpost offering curbside pick up in July 2020. “We were really lucky to have an opportunity to open (in 2020) and very fortunate to have the community support,” Ryan said. Ryan, a Southern California native, moved to New York City to work on Wall Street after college. After 10 years in New York, she and her husband, Mike Ryan, an orthopaedic surgeon moved to Birmingham, where he works for Andrews Sports Medicine. “I never would have anticipated moving to the Deep South, but as many people know, there is a charm and sweetness about Birmingham that we immediately fell in love with,” Ryan said. “About two years ago, I was lamenting the lack of healthy food here in Birmingham, but I was really impressed by the Ryan, a Southern California native, stressed the importance of locally and sustainably sourced marriage of fresh ingredients for maximum nutritional impact. local food and talent that I saw at a fine dining level. My question was, could we make that experience more accessible to the everyday Birminghamian and really focus on healthy food that not only leveraged our amazing economy and agricultural system but also brought health, wellness and maximum flavor and experience to more of the everday person.” Focusing on simple ingredients such as greens and vegetables and eliminating processed foods, Ryan’s vision for her new endeavor included the two-time James Beard Award-winning chef and Birmingham native Robin Bashinsky along with an incredible team of people striving to redefine healthy eating. “It was important for us to make healthy food accessible but also make it approachable, interesting, exciting, flavorful and nutritious,” Ryan said.
Photo courtesy
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
By Ally Morrison
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Opened in July 2021, BLUEROOT’s newest location, in Pepper Place, features indoor and outdoor seating to accommodate customers.
Time for chrisTmas!
Birmingham Restaurant Week New Dates
Photo courtesy
Ryan stressed the importance of locally and sustainably sourced fresh ingredients for maximum nutritional impact. The creative process of BLUEROOT was one like no other. Ryan explained her difficulty in creating a local restaurant in a town that was not her home originally. “I didn’t have the culinary expertise, I wasn’t from Birmingham and I was a female in a very male-dominated space,” Ryan said. Ryan explained the challenges brought on by being different. By bringing a West Coast-oriented mindset and cuisine to a Southern culture, different became Ryan’s advantage. “What I have realized is there is an increasing focus on health, wellness and self-love,” Ryan said. “Part of this comes from putting good things in your body, and the other part comes from being educated about what you’re eating.” Before the restaurant’s opening, health became a top priority for people not only in relation to COVID but in healthy eating, working out and taking care of their bodies. BLUEROOT could not have opened at a better time, in a better environment, ready to serve patrons of Birmingham, Ryan said. BLUEROOT’s menu leans on the principal of simplicity – simple ingredients, simple preparation styles and not many extraordinary experiments in the kitchen. Roasting, sautéing and blanching ingredients together allows the ingredients to be celebrated and
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 9
LIFE
BLUEROOT will be featuring a superfood snack choice of Not Your Mama’s Rice Crispy Treats, above, during Birmingham Restaurant Week.
enjoyed in an almost effortless way. Not Your Mama’s Rice Crispy Treats are a fan favorite, made with puffed millet, unsweetened coconut, almond butter, goji berries, pumpkin seeds, honey and sea salt. Other top menu items at BLUEROOT include the Farm Stand Salad and the Magic City Bowl. “I always wanted to focus on salads and green bowls, goods from the ground, and removing processed ingredients. The hope is that the variety on the menu and the various experiences you can have be lended to a variety of people to provide a simple beauty, experience and healthy eating in a really flavorful way,” Ryan said.
BLUEROOT will be participating in Birmingham Restaurant Week, Feb. 17-26. BRW was originally planned for this month but was postponed due to the recent increase in COVID cases. “We are so excited for Birmingham Restaurant Week. For breakfast, we will have a $10 Breakfast Duo, featuring our Overnight Oats or Chia Seed Pudding, as well as a superfood snack choice of Not Your Mama’s Rice Crispy Treats or our Collagen Bliss Bites, and for lunch we will have a $15 Lunch Duo, featuring one of our salads and a superfood bite of your choice,” Ryan said. Ryan and her team are still amazed by the support they have received from people in the Birmingham area. “We have been astounded so much so it almost brings tears to my eyes, and filled with gratitude by this community,” Ryan said. “The people that live here did not need to support someone who wasn’t from here, but they showed up and continue to show up. I don’t know that this type of community exists in very many places at the extreme experience that it does in Birmingham.”
2701 Cahaba Road | Mountain BrookVillage 205.871.7060 | bartonclay.com
To: Ryan From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: Nov. 2016
Cancer is personal
This is your aD pROOF from the OveR The MOuNTaiN JOuR Dec. 1, 2016 issue. please fax approval or changes to 82
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When the word cancer comes up, so do questions. Ascension St. Vincent’s please initial and fax back within 24 hours. care teams are here to listen to your concerns andnot answer youryouquestions. if we have heard from by 5 pm of the Friday before the press your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. By better understanding you and your cancer, we can offer the personalized, Thank you for your prompt attention. comprehensive cancer care you need at a location close to home. We are maintaining strict precautions to keep you safe while in our care. If you need a second opinion about your diagnosis, our care teams are here to provide more information about your condition and treatment plan.
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10 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
LIFE
Feed the Family
Joyful Food Co. Offers Healthier Variations on Childhood Favorites
IIIGUINIII 205-595-4846
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With a new year comes new goals, new fitness routines and new healthy diets. Eating healthy is one of the topranked new year’s resolutions, especially for those discovering dietary restrictions, those wanting to refrain from fast food or those wanting to eliminate sugar and processed goods. Originally established as a healthy bakery in Bluff Park called Consider It Joy Baking, the now Joyful Food Co. is a Hoover-based meal plan company that provides healthy meal options in an accessible way. Owners Elizabeth Wood and Rebecca Wanagat re-branded the company in January 2017 when the menu expanded beyond baked goods. In May 2020, Joyful Food Co. opened its second location, in the Crestline Park area of Birmingham. “I started the company as a small specialty bakery. Customers immediately began asking for more options,” Wood said. “Our vision grew out of what we were already doing for our families at home. We offer delicious meals made with high-quality ingredients.” Joyful Food Co. offers a variety of food items in store for ordering an onthe-go lunch, in addition to providing
Photos courtesy
By Ally Morrison
pre-cooked family meals for pickup or local delivery. The menu was created by both owners and is based heavily on meals from their childhood. “Our chicken pot pie and meatloaf are comforting favorites from our childhood made healthier. We also offer a
Swiss cake roll and nacho cheese based on after-school snacks from the ‘90s,” Wood said. Pre-cooked meals include items such as bento boxes, organic salads, fresh meat options and frozen family meals. Nearly the entire menu can be catered to dietary needs such as gluten or lactose intolerances. The menu has also been certified by the Whole30 organization. Wood and Wanagat pride themselves on using high-quality ingredients such as local grass-fed beef, organic chicken and free-range eggs. All food prepared is made without artificial ingredients or preservatives, and all bakery items are made with natural sweeteners. Wood discusses the main mission of Joyful Food Co. by stating, “We want people with dietary restrictions or health goals to enjoy dishes while not having to compromise on quality. We want to feed our customers the same way we feed our family: delicious meals made with simple clean ingredients.” Joyful Food Co. offers an option for healthy eating while not having to sacrifice time and money to live a healthier lifestyle. Both locations are open seven days a week and provide convenient local delivery on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Joyful Food Co. has two locations. The Bluff Park store is at 759 Shades Mountain Plaza, Hoover. The Crestline Location is at 4500 Montevallo Road, Suite E104. For more information, visit www. thejoyfulfoodco.com.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL
Grace Belcher, Elizabeth Bendall, Anne Elise Beasley, Madison Chatwood and Caroline Dugas.
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 11
Burke Smith, Kathryn Messer, Elizabeth Lemak, Kailey Koch and Collins McMurray.
Isabella Rizzo, Georgia Carolynne Kamburis, Katlin Willingham, Brooke Tarrant and Sydney Grace Edge.
Chandler Coshatt, Taylor Parks, Megan Swanzy, Jackie Stevens and Katie McKenna.
Raegan Goodreau, Parker Gregory, Anna Frances Gorham, Eleni Gulas and Cameron Isabella Hall.
Emory Elizabeth Swafford, Abbigale Fitzgerald Waters, Gracie Stockard, Madeline Yates and Claire Sexton.
T
he Ballet Women’s Committee and Poinsettia Men’s Club hosted the 54th Annual Poinsettia Ball on Dec. 16 at Vestavia Country Club. Fifty-four debutantes in white and red dresses prepared to be presented in a ballroom filled with coordinating bouquets of poinsettias. White gowns and red poinsettia bouquets were featured on 30 debutantes. These debutantes were nominated during the spring of their sophomore year of college and presented during their junior year. They included Anne Elise Beasley, Merrill Grace Belcher, Elizabeth Ann Bendall, Madison Alexandra Chatwood, Susannah Chandler Coshatt, Caroline Michele Dugas, Sydney Grace Edge, Raegan Marie Goodreau, Anna Frances Gorham, Parker Nicole Gregory, Helen Katherine Gulas, Cameron Isabella Hall, Georgia Carolynne Kamburis, Kailey Ana Koch, Lauren Elizabeth Lemak, Kathryn Rebekah Messer, Margaret Katherine McKenna, Collins Virginia McMurray, Taylor Brooke Parks, Isabella Candace Rizzo, Claire Aldin Sexton, Farris Burke Smith, Jacquelyn
Red & White 54th Annual Poinsettia Debutante Ball Introduces 30 Young Women to Society
Elissa Stevens, Mary Grace Stockard, Emory Elizabeth Swafford, Megan Alyssa Swanzy, Anna Brooke Tarrant, Abbigale Fitzgerald Waters, Katlin Tesney Willingham and Madeleine Chappell Yates. Twenty-four junior debutantes wore red gowns and carried bouquets of white poinsettias with fresh greenery. The junior debutantes were Emily Elizabeth Avis, Virginia Grace Cochran, Avery Marie Creel, Nina Catherine DiGiorgio, Marie DeLeisseline Duncan, Riley Marie Early, Merritt Elizabeth Flynn, Ella McKee Harper, Amelia Lanier Hawk, Laura Ellen Hayes, Emma Catherine Kerby, Lillian Harman Lowery, Mary Alexandra Maluff, Katherine
Adriana Morros, Eleanor Russ Petrey, Anna Elizabeth Ridgway, Mary Lansley Schick, Sara Frances Steadman, Sophie Mae Talbert, Anna Catherine Tanner, Ashby Clark Thomas, Anna Spencer Lawley, Catherine Elizabeth Whitcomb and Reilly Elizabeth Williamson. The Poinsettia Men’s Club sponsored a benefactor’s dinner during the private presentation of all debutantes. The dinner was organized by benefactor dinner chairman Stacey Gregory, and assistance was provided by Lynne and Donnie Dobbins. Each debutante was presented on the arm of her father or significant family member, with whom she later danced a traditional waltz. Poinsettia Ball board President Liz Guest orga-
nized evening festivities with the support of Poinsettia Ball chairwoman Jayna Southerland. Poinsettia Men’s Club President Gary Smith, along with Ballet Women’s Committee President Ashley Stockard and junior debutante social chairman Melissa McMurray, worked to make the night one to remember. Additional Poinsettia Ball board members serving with the event include Sharon Maddox, Lianne Hand, Stephanie Whisenhunt, Tammy Towns, Kelly Troiano, Ashley Moran, Jayna Southerland, Melissa McMurray, Allison Herr, Sarah Bryan, Michelle Channel, Cathy Donze and Loren Leigh Baggett. In 1968, the Poinsettia Debutante Ball was established after Mrs. John W. Gustafon suggested it. Founded in 1960, the Ballet Women’s Committee advances and promotes fine arts in the greater Birmingham area. All proceeds from the event will support the Alabama Ballet, the state’s prominent master ballet company. The Poinsettia Men’s Club was created in 1969 to support and promote the well-recognized Ballet Women’s Committee. ❖
12 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
Rocking the Night Away
40 Young Women Presented at the Redstone Club’s Annual Christmas Ball Class of 2020
Photos by Dee Moore
The Redstone Club’s 114th annual Christmas Ball was held Dec. 18 at the Country Club of Birmingham. More than 150 members of the Redstone Club and their guests attended the group’s annual Christmas celebration. The 2020 ball was canceled because of COVID-19 fears, and so the recent celebration included two classes of presentees, combining recent graduates who were to have been presented in 2020 and current college seniors. Presentees wore traditional long white dresses and gloves and carried simple flower bouquets, a complement to their chosen escorts in black tuxedo tails. Last year’s Redstone Club president, Gregory S. Curran, and his wife, Emily, presided over the presentation of the young women who had been scheduled in 2020. And 2021 club President Francis H. Crockard III and his wife, Winn, received curtsies from this year’s presentees. Ball co-chairmen were William Spencer South, who attended with his wife, Cari, and William Bernhart Wahlheim Jr., accompanied by his wife, Cary. Carole Sullivan installed the Christmas-themed decorations for both the seated dinner, which preceded the ball, and the East Room of the Country Club, were the presentation was held.
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Brooke Campbell Holloway, Frances Kendrick McFadden, Mary Walker Poe, Ann Chapman Haynes, Elizabeth Rose Virginia Bowron Beasley and Virgina Lambert Murray. Gillespy and Caroline Carlisle Sims.
Class of 2020
The presentee class of 2020 included: Parker Tulaire Cobbs, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Glenn Cobbs; Gunter Moren Crommelin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Claiborne Crommelin; Elise Louise Doss, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Coates Doss; Grace Sinclair Evans, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Parker Evans II; Elizabeth Gibson Johnston, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Merrill Estes Johnston Jr.; Frances Kendrick McFadden, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hampton McFadden Jr.; Elizabeth Renneker McMillan, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Murphy McMillan III; and Carolyn Dickinson Wahlheim, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Bernhart Wahlheim Jr. Virginia Bowron Beasley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Martin Beasley Jr., sponsored by Mr. George Wheeler Matthews Jr.; Isabel Browning Boyd, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Philip Howard Boyd Jr., sponsored by Mr. John Parker Evans Jr.; Frances Hardy Bromberg, daughter of Mr. Frank Hardy Bromberg III and Mrs. Anne Bromberg, sponsored by Mr. Charles Trueheart Clayton Jr.; and Kate McCarroll Bumgarner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen James Bumgarner, sponsored by Mr. Paul Porter Crockard. Elizabeth Rose Gillespy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Palfrey Gillespy, sponsored by Mr. Thomas Atkinson Roberts Jr.; Ann Chapman Haynes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Wayne Haynes, sponsored by Mr. Nelson Straub Bean; Brooke
Isabel Browning Boyd, Frances Hardy Bromberg, Grace Sinclair Evans and Merry Allyson Walker.
Kathryn Anne Lott, Gunter Moren Crommelin, Carolyn Dickinson Wahlheim and Kate McCarroll Bumgarner.
2020 Club President Gregory S. Curran, and wife Emily, with Ball Chairman William Spencer South and wife Cari.
Mr. William Collins Knight Jr.; Stella Smith Styslinger, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Joseph Styslinger, sponsored by Mr. Lee Joseph Styslinger III; Anna Craig Tucker, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Craig Tucker, sponsored by Mr. Richard Turner Scruggs Jr.; Merry Allyson Walker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edward Walker III, sponsored by Mr. John Reese Murray III; Ann McQueen Whatley, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Forest Woods Whatley, sponsored by Mr. Hewes Turner Hull.
Class of 2021
Campbell Holloway, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Thomas Holloway, sponsored by Dr. Charles Edward Bugg; Brooks Leslie Hunter, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Paul Hunter, sponsored by Mr. William Bew White III; Kathryn Anne Lott, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Ervin Lott, sponsored by Mr. Evans Dunn Jr.; and Virginia Lambert Murray, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sands Murray Jr.,
sponsored by Mr. William Bew White III. Mary Walker Poe, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Hoke Poe, sponsored by Dr. Perry Winston Smith; Caroline Carlisle Sims, daughter of Mr. George William Sims II and Mrs. Caroline Edwards, sponsored by Mr. James Arthur Smith IV; Jane Perry Starling, in absentia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marion Jefferson Starling III, sponsored by
Presentees for this year’s class of 2021 were: Adele Tydings Bloodworth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Courtenay Renneker Bloodworth; Lucille Grace Christian, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Rosamond Christian; Isabel Brownlee Coleman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bibb Coleman; Caroline Judith Knight, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Bailey Knight III; Marian Mead Oliver, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Craft O’Neal; Katherine Lee
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Seibels, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Kelly Seibels Jr.; and Sallie Evans Simpson, daughter of Mr. John Rembert Simpson and Mrs. Leslie Register. Lucy Jordan Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henley Jordan Smith III; Helen Claire Tynes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wilson Tynes; Kathleen Connolly Wilson, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Alexander Symington Wilson Jr.; Fredda Claire Cardwell, daughter of Mr. Cameron Stuart Cardwell and Mrs. Jaclyn Stewart Vann, sponsored by Mr. William Oliver Vann; Lelia Sykes Carlson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth James Carlson, sponsored by Mr. Richard Murray IV; and Mary Tynes Flake, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jared Grey Flake, sponsored by Mr. Charles Sheppard Caldwell III. Suzanne Cotten Hillhouse, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Louden Hillhouse III, sponsored by Mr. James Bailey Knight III; Lyla Murfee Jones, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Marshall Jones III, sponsored by Mr. William Elliott Matthews V; Elizabeth Hamilton Lanier, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Monro Banister Lanier III, sponsored by Mr. Mark Legrand Myatt; Farley Southland Morris, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Norwood Morris II, sponsored by Mr. Joseph McConnell Farley Jr.; and Caroline Lee Pope, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lee McWhorter Pope, sponsored by Mr. Hobart Amory McWhorter Jr. Mary McLaurine Trammell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Monroe Trammell III, sponsored by Mr. Henry Levi Mellen III; Elizabeth Roberts Vann, daughter of Mr. William Oliver Vann Jr. and Mrs. Kimberly Moore Vann, sponsored by Mr. William Oliver Vann; Emma Kate Walker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edward Walker III, sponsored by Mr. John Reese Murray III; Rebecca Fairbanks Hart White, daughter of Mr. David Hart White and Mrs. Catherine Caddell Hoff, sponsored by Mr. Gene Ruffner Page Jr.; Virginia Cobb Witherington, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Edward Witherington Jr., sponsored by Mr. Frank Mobley Young III; Sarah Shepard Yates, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dustin Blake Yates, sponsored by Mr. Charles Trueheart Clayton Jr. At the ball luncheon, held at the Mountain Brook Club on Dec. 17, both groups of presentees were introduced to the club membership and received some background on the long history of the event and the club itself. Also represented were several of the original members of the 1970 and 1971 presentee classes, whose 50th anniversaries were celebrated. The “golden girls” from 1970 were: Beverly Comer Nabers Bowring, Martha Murray Harsh Chapman, Katherine Barrett Coe, Elizabeth Morgan Kinney Daniels, Euguenia Wimberly Smith Edwards, Jane Campbell Brown Grant, Virginia Brasfield Cooper Hardie, Katherine Barrow Hiden Kettig, Mary Elizabeth Forman
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 13
Class of 2021
Sallie Evans Simpson, Lucy Jordan Smith, Katherine Lee Seibels and Lelia Sykes Carlson.
Emma Kate Walker, Sarah Shepard Yates, Fredda Claire Cardwell and Rebecca Fairbanks Hart White.
C hristine’s Canterbury
on
2404 Canterbury Road • 205-871-8297 Marian Mead Oliver, Adele Tydings Bloodworth, Farley Southland Morris and Mary Tynes Flake.
Lucille Grace Christian, Caroline Lee Pope, Kathleen Connolly Wilson and Caroline Judith Knight.
BEGINNER BRIDGE LESSONS
JANUARY 24, 2022 CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
Lyla Murfee Jones, Elizabeth Hamilton Lanier, Suzanne Cotten Hillhouse and Elizabeth Roberts Vann.
Norwood, Frances Bradley Matthews Proctor, Donald Munger Anderson Roth, Dorothy Cobbs Shaw, Barbara Mary Chenoweth Shelton, Murray Brown Spencer South, Cynthia Sharpe Shook Sproull and Katherine Elizabeth Perry Wolfes. Presentees from the 1971 class were: Laura Voorhies Miller Allen, Anne Dudley Anderson, Mary Cecil Berry, Constance Breckenridge Brewer, Virginia Samford Upchurch Collier, Margaret Preston Fletcher, Augusta Cobbs
2021 Club President Francis H. Crockard III and wife Winn, with Ball Chairman William Bernhart Wahlheim, Jr. and wife Cary.
Poellnitz Hassinger, Murray Berry Johnston, Margaret Wellborn Matthews, Martha Parker McDavid Sarah Elizabeth Sproule Mitchiner, Marguerite Nabers McGriff North, Margaret Pollard Marks Porter, Anne Westcott Shaw, Katherine Samford Upchurch Takvorian and Yeardley Eustis Smith Williams. The ball followed a members-only cocktail party and dinner, spread between Birmingham Country Club’s East Room and dining rooms. Music chairman John R. Simpson arranged the evening’s accompani-
ment. For the cocktail party, the debutante presentation and first dance, the Sonny Harris Trio Band set the musical atmosphere. Following the presentation, the Universal Crush band took the stage, turning the formal setting into a rocking dance hall that kept members and presentees dancing late into the evening. The 2021 Redstone Club officers are: Francis H. Crockard III, president; J. Bailey Knight III, vice president; James H. Hancock Jr., secretary-treasurer; and John C. Morrow, traditions chairman. ❖
144 BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE • BIRMINGHAM, AL • 35244
REGISTRATION ONLINE: bhambridge.org RESERVE BY PHONE: (205) 593-4005 VACCINATION CARDS REQUIRED FIRST CLASS
14 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Photos by Dee Moore
SOCIAL
Katherine Lee Seibels, Farley Southland Morris, Rebecca Fairbanks Hart White and Sarah Shepard Yates.
Caroline Judith Knight, Sarah Randall Hydinger, Kathryn Chapple Lummis and Eleanor Claire Martin.
Lelia Sykes Carlson, Genevieve Grace Griffin, Mary McLaurine Trammell and Ann Clayton Cole .
Let It Snow
The Debutante Club Presents 14 Debutantes and a Winter Wonderland
It was a winter wonderland at Mountain Brook Club on Nov. 29 despite the warm weather. The Debutante Club of Birmingham celebrated its 92nd year as it honored 14 young ladies. Reminiscent of the early years of the Debutante Club, a Black and White Ball was held. The young women wore white gowns their guests were attired in black tie and oming,while Housekeeping, black cocktail dresses. The 2021 debutantes and their escorts includMedication Reminders ed Lelia Carlson and Stuart Thornton, Anne
Clayton Cole and Jon Natarajan, Gigi Griffin and Christian Huddle, Sarah Hydinger and Harrison Clark, Caroline Knight and James Roberts, Katie Lummis and John Kozar, Ellie Martin and Weston Williams, Farley Morris and Coe Taylor, Kate Seibels and Sean Doud, Mary McLaurine Trammell and Harrison Gorham, Fairbanks White and Hayden Rahr, Sarah Yates and Austin McBee. Lilli Fowler and Caroline Monaghan were honored in absentia.
Ginny Hutchinson of Scribbler, a writingfocused company, helped create a simple yet elegant invitation. Robert Logan of Backstage Designs created a frosty atmosphere of winter despite the warm Southern temperatures outside. The Mountain Brook Club was teeming with white and blue lights, silver, crystal and flocked trees and glistening snowflakes. The young ladies and their dates shared cocktails and dinner before the party. They dined on silver sequin-covered tables with cen-
terpieces of white branches, snowflakes, twinkling lights and white hydrangea. When the guests arrived, they were welcomed with shining lights in the trees and grazing deer with large brightly lit snowflakes embellishing the entrance. The ball began at 9 p.m. with the exuberant sounds of Rhythm Nation, a 10-piece band from Atlanta. Debutantes invited relatives and, in many cases, college friends to the event. ❖
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 15
SOCIAL
Christmas Luncheon
Photos courtesy
KD Alums Raise Money for Children’s Harbor
Mary Ruth Caldwell, Lisa Flake, Mary Tynes Flake, Caldwell Flake, Martha DeBuys, Madeline DeBuys and Isabelle DeBuys.
The Mountain Brook Alumnae Chapter of Kappa Delta recently hosted its annual Christmas luncheon at the home of Cameron Hicks. Collegians and alumnae attended the event. Each year, the chapter selects a nonprofit organization for which it raises money and awareness. This year, the chapter raised nearly $1,000 for Children’s Harbor at Lake Martin. Children’s Harbor provides services for children with serious illnesses and their families, including through its camp at Lake Martin. ❖
Henderson Draperies Over 45 Years experience
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...And Leadership, Partnerships, Community Development & Impact. THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF BIRMINGHAM (JLB) is kicking off our centennial celebrations by honoring our past and forging our future with doing what we love best—serving our community. In honor of the JLB’s 100 years, our volunteers are partnering with other local organizations to show our love for Birmingham this January through April through 100 Acts of Service. Look for us around town as we roll up our sleeves and get to work, collaborating as we with local municipalities, businesses, community organizations and others to collaborate with local municipalities, businesses, community organizations and organize service opportunities. We invitewith our our past,past, present and and others to meaningful organize meaningful service opportunities present potential partners throughout metro to join usour as we our 100 for all of thethe metro to celebrate 100commemorate years of impact. years of impact.
To: Henderson Draperies From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: August This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the ALL BED LINENS ENGAGE. INSPIRE. LEAD. BUILD PARTNERSHIPS FOR A BETTER BIRMINGHAM. August 26, 2021 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
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16 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
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For the Krewe
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
BMA to Present 51 Young Women in Annual Krewe Ball
Sarah Yates, Fairbanks White, Fredda Cardwell, Kathleen Beall, Darby Keith and Evie Morton.
Mallie Reed, Lacy Walthall, Vale Lightfoot and Coleman Turnipseed.
Elizabeth Hale, Molly Regan, Nancy Kate Nicrosi, Sarah Hydinger, Carolanne Berte and Laura Doody.
Elizabeth Vann, Mary McLaurine Trammell, Christian Parker, KayKay Benck and Farley Morris.
Margaret Bryant, Margaret Dodson, Mary Frances Robertson, Mary Alison Turner and Anna Hufham.
The Birmingham Museum of Art will be hosting the 54th Annual Krewe Ball on Feb. 25. This year’s Krewe Ball will feature 51 princesses, which include girls who did not have the opportunity to be presented last year when the ball was canceled due to COVID-19. For more than 50 years, the Krewe has been instrumental in supporting the Birmingham Museum of Art and has donated to the Krewe Acquisition Fund. The ball will be held at Boutwell Auditorium, with the presentation beginning at 9 p.m. Princesses being presented include: Helen Caroline Abele, Kathleen McKenney Beall, Katy Leigh Benck, Carolanne Hodge Berte, Adele Tydings Bloodworth, Melanie McCaa Bradford, Emilie Anne Brown, Elizabeth Moore Bryant, Margaret Diane Bryant, Fredda Claire Cardwell, Virginia Frances Carney, Mary Mozelle Davis, Isabelle
Daly Ostrander, Betsy Bryant, Isabelle DeBuys and Emilie Brown.
Helen Abele, Mary Douglas Ray, Grace Hull, Virginia Williams and Mimi Davis.
Virginia DeBuys, Anna Cristina de la Torre, Margaret Jean Dodson, Laura Elizabeth
Doody, Eleanor Elizabeth Edwards, Karoline Marie Rust Gillespy, Mary Inzer Hagan,
Elizabeth Alline Vogtle Hale and Elizabeth Ellis Henley. Joy Louise Holman, Mary Anastasia Hufham, Grace Shepard Hull, Sarah Randall Hydinger, Ruth Elaine Jolly, Susan Darby Keith, Elizabeth Lunden Leitner, Valerie Bennet Lightfoot, Kathryne Bridges McLemore, Martha Hope Methvin, Farley Southland Morris, Evie Elizabeth Morton, Nancy Katharine Nicrosi, Daly Elizabeth Ostrander, Elizabeth Christian Parker, Mary Kathryn Rainer, Mary Douglas Ray, Margaret Stuart Reed, Molly Ann Regan, Mary Frances Robertson, Mary McLaurine Trammell, Mary Alison Turner, Melanie Grace Turner, Coleman Elizabeth Turnipseed, Elizabeth Roberts Vann, Virginia Tynes Wahlheim, Martha Lucille Walthall, Rebecca Fairbanks Hart White, Virginia Marguerite Williams and Sarah Shepard Yates. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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Garlandia Garden Club Gathers for Holiday Luncheon Members of the Garlandia Garden Club gathered Dec. 15 at Mountain Brook Club for a holiday luncheon, hosted by social and hospitality chairwoman Patsy Hendley and President Mary Sue Durant. Tables were decorated with fresh evergreen accented in gold glitter, with a focal point of red poinsettias. Pianist Anna Williams and violinist Katheryn Lamb performed, and many of the pieces played were original arrangements by Williams. Members in attendance included Rhonda Cook, Mary Sue Durant, Sally Helms, Patsy Hendley, Margaret Howell, Marilyn Jackson, Charlotte Shannon, Pat Sorrell, Brenda Weaver, Roula Wolff and Anita Yates. Special guests included Cecil Avery, Cori Dillon, Eloise Williams, Gail
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
Music and Friendship
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 17
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Rehab Reality... by Judy Butler
Deck the Halls for Charity Riverchase Homes Opened to Public for Christmas Home Tour
Alcohol Is Not Your Friend
Lola Barnes and Ava Schach.
Will Landis and David Herman.
Three homeowners in the Riverchase area decked the halls and opened their doors for the Riverchase Women’s Club’s annual Christmas Home Tour and Dinner, held Dec. 17. One home featured was built this year, with another being recently purchased and remodeled. The third home has been a part of the tour in previous years, but its interior design and renovations are a crowd favorite. Dinner was held at Riverchase Country Club for participants after the viewing of the homes. This year, the Christmas feast featured live music.
The Riverchase Women’s Club hosts various events, such as its annual Art Show and Tablescapes, with a mission to connect women in the neighborhood and raise awareness and funds for charitable organizations. Last year, the Women’s Club donated more than $11,000 to a variety of local missions. This year, the group will most likely surpass the previous year’s donations, as the club’s team for the Walk-A-Thon for Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama raised almost $5,000. ❖
Stephanie and Nick Derzis.
Jill Miller and Carla Kanafani.
Lisa Carruba and Gloria Nelson.
Laurie Johnson and Sam Hyatt Branch.
Cara Cooper and Linda Cooper.
Kim and Stephen Strickland.
Photos courtesy
Imagine waking up in the morning and reaching for a drink and I don’t mean water, juice or coffee. Surprise that many, if not most, of those who have come to Bayshore Retreat this is what they did and also one experiences that told them that they needed help. They are amazed at how much better they look and feel after being at Bayshore and breaking the habit of that first drink. Each expressed that they didn’t realize how much alcohol had been affecting them phycally. So the question is “what is excessive drinking?”. This can be binge drinking and/or heavy drinking. Binge drinking for women it is defined as 4 or more drinks during a single occasion and for men, 5 or more during a single occasion. Heavy drinking is defined as 8 or more per week for women and 15 or more per week for men. Not only does alcohol consumption take away hours of life with blackouts and memory loss, but also the unseen damages such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease and list goes on. Maybe it’s time to take a selfassessment of your alcohol use or that of someone you love. If what began with a glass of wine at dinner has turned into much more it’s possible alcohol has taken control of you rather than you controlling it. We prove everyday that life can be better without alcohol. Before going to one of the big box drug rehabs with vending machines, cafeteria food and twelve step meetings consider the difference. Our “treatment home” is different and can make a difference.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SOCIAL
Journal photos by Jordan Wald
18 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
Sterling and Lesley DeRamus with Elizabeth Crommelin.
Prelude to the Holiday Birmingham Music Club Kicks of the Season With Food and Friends
The Guild of the Birmingham Music Club celebrated the season with its annual Prelude to the Holiday party Dec. 2. Held at the Mountain Brook home of Nancy Canada, hostesses for the event were Missy Fooshe, Jocelyn Palmer, Phyllis Pelham, Michele Smith, and party chair Cindy Bowron. Kevin Canada and Allen Holder served as bartenders, and food was prepared by the hostesses and their spouses. The delicious fare was served by Cara Cooper, John Pelham and Henry Pelham. Roberta Atkinson, president of the organization, presided over the event. ❖
Phyllis Pelham, Michele Smith, Nancy Canada, Jocelyn Palmer, Cindy Bowron and Missy Fooshee.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Cocktails and Jingle Bells
Adelaide Cochran, Turner Hull, Mary Helen Powell.
Reinstated Social Clubs Hold First Party Together
Henderson Draperies Over 45 Years experience
Windows Treatments Dustruffles • Draperie Alterations Anything for the House
Photos courtesy
The Spinsters and Bachelors clubs held their first “Cocktails and Jingle Bells” party on Dec. 22 at Carrigan’s Public House downtown. The two clubs joined together to celebrate the holiday season in style. Both social clubs were originally founded in the 1920s and reinstated last year. ❖
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 19
SOCIAL
205.401.7126
Anna Catherine Gillespy, Cile Baker and Elise Greco.
COMING SOON
A vibrant community that feels right for all the right reasons. In fornt, Mary Seldon Andrews and Jane Newby. Back, Lissa Barkley, Mimi Waggoner, Anna Catherine Gillespy and Annie Wyatt.
HANDYMAN SPECIAL FOR SENIORS Don’t let age or arthritis slow you down. Adapt your home to fit your needs!
To: Henderson Draperies From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 The Crossings at Riverchase will introduce a new flavor of retirement living in FAX: 205-824-1246 Birmingham — one that emphasizes Date: comfort, August convenience with warm, friendly surroundings and a neighborly atmosphere. This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JO August 26, 2021 issue. Please fax approval or changes
Offering all-day dining with multiple selections of chef-prepared, seasonal menu items; a full calendar of events and activitiesmake featuringsure live entertainment and Please all information is corre guest speakers; and a loyalty benefit giving Independent Living residents a lower and phone number! monthly cost for long-term, on-site health servicesaddress if ever needed. Come see how this fresh, new community could fit you and your lifestyle.
Please initial and fax back within 24 hour
The Crossings at Riverchase
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the p your ad will run as in is. Hoover, We print the paper Monday. will open early 2022
Thank for views your and prompt attention. off Highway 31 and just minutes from Birmingham with scenicyou nature easy access to The Galleria at Riverchase. Learn more at our newly-opened Information Center — and ask about our limited-time Ambassador Program for exclusive community updates and residency benefits! Call 205-210-8969 or visit TheCrossingsatRiverchase.com to schedule an appointment today. SPECIAL: instillation of Your Choice of 3 Grab Bars OR 2 Grab Bars & Handheld Shower. Good thru February 1, 2022.
$295.00 + Materials
Client to supply the materials of their choosing.
Call Now to Schedule! 205-839-3818 **Certified Senior Home Safety Specialists on Staff** Ask About Our Senior Home Safety Inspection Service! Trubluehousecare.com/birmingham
Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care Information Center | The Plaza at Riverchase | 1839 Montgomery Highway | Hoover, AL 35244 AL License Pending
20 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
WEDDINGS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
The Year of Weddings
Photo by Rachel & Noah Ray
Photo by Leslie Hollingsworth
Photo by AL Weddings Photography
Styles in Wedding Dresses and Wedding Formats Shift as Busiest Wedding Year in Almost 40 Years Commences
THE ONE “I actually had no clue what kind of dress I wanted. I went into Bustle and said bring me anything and everything you have! I tried on multiple dresses, but this one felt different. This one felt like “the one”! I loved how the thin spaghetti straps on it made it feel like an elegant nightgown with the lace making me feel beautiful!” Anna Claire Black Zylstra, above, with husband and Jason Zylstra.
CLASSIC AND ELEGANT “I quickly determined I wanted
a fitted strapless dress. But what drew me to my specific dress was that it was classic and elegant, yet modern and a little different. The overlay gave a subtle detail of texture that I loved, combined with the a low-v and buttons down the back. It was definitely my dream dress!” Miranda Garner Cox, above, with husband Ryan Cox.
By Ally Morrison
T
he year of weddings is here. The Knot estimates there will be about 2.6 million weddings in the United States in 2022, the biggest wedding boom since 1984, as brides who had delayed their ceremonies because of COVID fears finally set dates to walk down the aisle. At The White Room, a bridal boutique in Mountain Brook, owner Cathy Kelley said this year is the busiest she’s seen. “This is the biggest year for weddings, and I’ve never seen anything like this.” Kelly said. “I’ve done this for 18 years. This will definitely be a record year.”
‘One client said she will be in six weddings in the new year. Since there is such an increase in weddings, we will see a lot more Friday and Sunday night weddings.’ With an increase in weddings, comes an increase in gown styles. Looking back, Kelley said the most popular wedding dress styles in 2021 had off-the-shoulder necklines with fit-and-flare silhouettes.
OPEN MIND “I’ve always loved the illusion style of dresses and have always wanted more of an A-line style dress, but I went in with an open mind and wanted to try on a number of different styles. The first dress that was brought out looked just like one I had pinned on Pinterest in college. I still tried on other dresses, and actually almost went another one, but went back to that one in the end. I didn’t want to take it off, so that’s when I knew it was the one.” Emily Odom Brown, above, with husband Jeff Brown.
She predicts dress trends for 2022 will change. “Remarkably, strapless gowns are making a comeback.” Kelley said. “I think brides are tired of seeing higher necklines, sleeves and coverage. They’re really going after strapless, and beading is going to be very popular as well.” Creative Director of Bustle Gowns Laine White reveals there is an abundance of diversity happening in wedding fashion this year. “Right now, every bride is leaning into their own individuality with their dress styles.” White said. “It falls in line with our desire to be culturally diverse and to be more excited about our own personalities.” At Bustle Gowns, a Homewood bridal boutique, See WEDDINGS, page 24
WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS
Birmingham Museum of Art The Birmingham Museum of Art is an elegant and modern venue, suited to host any wedding event, such as engagement parties, bridal luncheons, teas and showers down to the ceremony and or reception. “If you choose the Museum for your wedding, you can utilize all of our public spaces – Oscars Café, with the dramatic spiral staircase; the Eighth Ave. Lobby, which has the colorful blown glass art created by Dale Chihuly adorning the wall; and the multi-level Charles Ireland Sculpture Garden outside,” said Special Events Manager Jestina Howard, above. “ You can have the Museum art galleries open for your guests to tour and we only book one private event after 5:00pm when we close to the public. So, you and your guests will have the entire Museum to yourselves,” Howard added. Howard’s Wedding Planning Tips
“One: Consider hiring a wedding planner or
coordinator. They can make the process of planning your wedding stress free. Planners handle all of the details from beginning to end such as logistics, event design, contract negotiations, booking vendors and the day-of execution of your event. Coordinators handle some day-of logistics, but on a shorter timeline. They usually begin helping you prepare a week or month before the wedding and function as your day- of point person.” “Two: Think about the three most important aspects you want for your special day. Are those aspects the food, specialty drinks, decor or entertainment, etc.? Prioritize the three things and stick to them.” “Three: Decide on your wedding style/theme is it traditional, contemporary or rustic? Focus on this so you stay aligned with your complete event vision.” Birmingham Museum of Art is located at 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., 205-2542681 or email plananevent@artsbma.org
There is an art to creating the perfect wedding. Let us be your canvas.
artsbma.org · 205.254.2681 plananevent@artsbma.org
Image courtesy Eric & Jamie Photography
Weddings at the Birmingham Museum of Art
Bromberg’s As we welcome 2022, we have much to celebrate, especially the many holiday engagements! At Bromberg’s we enjoy making all our couples feel special, from helping them register to picking out their wedding bands. Recently, a Bromberg’s Bride was celebrated in an extra-special way to honor the store’s 185th year of business. Along with top-selling dinnerware line, Juliska, Bromberg’s gave away a bridesmaids’ luncheon to one lucky registered bride! Hannah Reeder, now Hannah Evans, was the lucky winner and enjoyed a fabulous luncheon with her bridal party and family on November 19th at Olexa’s Cafe in Mountain Brook Village. Special details from local Birmingham vendors were included in Hannah’s luncheon. Dogwood Hill provided custom designed invitations, menus, and place cards for the event. The table was decorated with Juliska dinnerware, napkins, water goblets, champagne flutes, and vases to hold gorgeous floral arrangements by Marigold Designs. Guests enjoyed a delicious brunch, mimo-
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 21
Photo courtesy Arden Photography
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
sas, and a charm pull cake in Olexa’s signature vanilla buttercream. Even the bridal party gifts were thought of; each attendee received a mouth-blown Juliska vase to remember the day. Lastly, talented Arden Ward Upton of Arden Photography was there to document the party. Hannah was a beautiful bride, and Bromberg’s was thrilled to celebrate this exciting milestone with her! If you’re recently engaged, creating a wedding registry at Bromberg’s is a delightful and easy part of wedding planning. Nothing compares to the helpful service you will receive working with our expert bridal consultants, and you’ll find an unmatched selection of fine china, casual dinnerware, crystal, silver, and home décor. Other benefits of creating a Bromberg’s registry include discounts for attendant and hostess gifts, 20% off wedding bands, and the Gift Letter program, which reduces the amount of returns and duplicate gifts and allows couples to take advantage of special offers and seasonal sales. Couples can register at Bromberg’s located in Mountain Brook Village and The Summit or online at www.BrombergsBride.com.
22 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS
JB & CO
Charming Scribe
Private Jeweler, collection of coveted John Bromberg mainwatches from Cartier, tains a return to an Patek Philippe and old-world artisan Rolex. approach to fine jewJohn Bromberg is elry. In an industry a sixth-generation that is increasingly GIA trained jeweler focused on mass prowith memberships in duction, JB & CO the prestigious chooses to focus on Diamond Dealers’ the unique, with speClub of New York cialties that include and The American bridal, custom and Society of Jewelry estate jewelry. Historians. John’s At a time when longstanding relaindividual service tionships offer the and privacy is of the unique opportunity utmost importance, for his clients to purBromberg personally chase fine jewelry at works with his clients an exceptional value. to select or create JB & CO was named just the right piece “The Best Jeweler” for the occasion, in the About Town always adhering to magazine 2021 John Bromberg is a sixth-generation their style and budReaders’ Poll! GIA trained jeweler with memberships in get. Whether it is a For the full JB & the prestigious Diamond Dealers’ Club of diamond engagement CO experience, we New York and The American Society of ring, a micro-mosaic recommend making Jewelry Historians. necklace or a special an appointment. piece for your day, “Collect with us,” JB & CO can help you with your jewelry heirsays Bromberg. JB & CO is located at 1 Office Park Circle, loom. His collection of estate jewelry comes Suite 201, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. 205from the finest jewelry houses such as Van 478-0455. Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany, Verdura, Buccellati, Website: www.JBandCoJewelry.com Bulgari, as well as, designers Jean Instagram: @ Schlumberger for Tiffany, Ilias Lalounis, Pierre JBandCoJewelryMountainBrookAL Sterle’, Elizabeth Locke, Katy Briscoe, Facebook: JBandCoJewelry Chopard and Ippolita. John also has a select
“Charming Scribe began as Weddings Etc, a stationery and gift store that was located ‘on the curve’ of Downtown Homewood for 25 years,” owner Melissa Abele (right) said. “After owning it for 10 years, I moved the business online and narrowed the focus to the best selling products, our cake charms and the wedding books we call the Beloved Book. My most favorite aspect of the current business is the design work. I love designing monograms, guiding brides in selecting fabrics and thread colors, as well as photostyling all of the products.” According to Melissa, here in the South, a wedding essential that every mother has insisted her engaged daughter get is a book that has been known by several titles - a bride’s book, wedding book, or a memory book. “I love a little romance, so I gave our books the romantic title of a Beloved Book,” Melissa said. “A Beloved Book is your family heirloom that tells the story of how your family first began. It is a shower guest book, rehearsal dinner guest book, wedding guest book, and a photo album. It has a place for your engagement photos, baby and current photos, save the date, shower invitations,
S H O W H E R H O W T R U LY BRILLIANT YOU CAN BE
THE BELOVED BOOK
your family heirloom wedding and shower guest book
JohnBromberg@JBandCoJewelry.com 205.478.0455 | JBandCoJewelry.com One Office Park Circle | Suite 201 | Mountain Brook, AL 35223
2021
charmingscribe.etsy.com
rehearsal dinner invitation, wedding invitation, and wedding program. The Beloved Book chronicles your engagement memories from proposal to the honeymoon. There are 19 different designs for the Beloved Book, with an additional option for custom art. “My favorite design is Genevieve because of her beautiful details, 3 thread colors, dot details inside the middle letter and accent dots that flank the side letters,” Melissa said. “The Genevieve monogram is very dimensional when embroidered. I also love embroidering customer’s unique custom art. It is always a little creative adventure that brings a thrill when I see it completed.” Beloved Books are handmade with beautiful linen or silk dupioni, the finest embroidery threads, and a lot of TLC. Each book’s foundation is a sturdy, custom made three-ring binder that allows for easy removal and addition of pages. The pages are heavyweight, acid-free card stock printed in charcoal ink. Beloved Books are available for local pickup. To learn more about Charming Scribe or contact Melissa Abele visit charmingscribe.etsy.com
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Levy’s Fine Jewelry
For more than 100 years and four generations Levy’s Fine Jewelry has been providing the people of Birmingham with the finest quality of new designer jewelry and the largest selection of antique jewelry. “We sell loose diamonds, engagements rings, wedding bands and bridesmaids and groomsmen gifts,” said Todd Denaburg, pictured far right with his cousin Jared Nadler, left. “Jared and I have been working together in the bridal jewelry business full time for 31 years. Counting part time work as a child, I have been in the business for 45 years. “Levy’s not only carries an encompassing selection of modern diamonds, engagement rings and wedding bands, but also has one of the most comprehensive selections of antique and estate bridal jewelry in the United States. From the 18th century throughout the Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Retro period, we offer a selection to fit every taste,” Todd said. “The best advice I can offer in the selection of bridal jewelry is for the bride and groom to work together to select the perfect pieces of jewelry,” Jared said. “We know that often the
WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS
element of surprise is a large factor in this, especially when selecting an engagement ring. If working together is not possible, try to gather what her tastes and wishes are through her friends or family members. The engagement
ring will be worn for a very long time, so it’s best to ensure it is the perfect ring for her. If you have a long engagement, don’t buy the wedding band until four months before the wedding, as styles and minds change over a period of time.” Levy’s is taking every precaution to insure both it’s customers and employees are safe from the COVID pandemic. The store is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected throughout the day. Levy’s Fine Jewelry is located at 2116 2nd Avenue N. in Birmingham, 205-251-3381.
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 23
Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus “Red Mountain When asked what Theatre is a historic makes the Red industrial space conMountain Theatre verted into a state-ofArts Campus a the-art performing unique place for an arts and event venue event Stephanie is in the heart of the quick with an answer, lively Parkside “I love all of the District of downunique features our town, perfect for any building has to offer, wedding-related such as original fire event, whether you doors from 1914, have 10 guests or floor to ceiling win400!” Business dows, and LED light Development pillars lining one of Manager Stephanie the walls in our Achilli, right, said. Grand Lobby. “We have multiple “Our team has spaces that can be incomparable expertransformed to exacttise in planning and ly how you envision executing your event. your event to look.” From unlimited site Red Mountain visits with you and Theatre can even your vendors to assist with finding matching you with ‘We are looking forward to talent, whether it’s a performers and musicians for your event, or magician, hosting many events at our musician whether it takes place we are here to help,” Arts Campus which officially Stephanie said. at the Arts Campus or not. When it comes to opened its doors in May 2021.’ “I have been in the advice for your wedwedding and events ding or special event industry for almost six years, but Red Stephanie offers this advice: “Get creative, Mountain Theatre has been in the business of have fun, and make your event an experience creating experiences for patrons since 1979,” your guests will be talking about for years to Stephanie said. “We are looking forward to come!” hosting many events at our Arts Campus which Red Mountain Theatre is located at 1600 officially opened its doors in May 2021.” 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham, 205-463-5372.
PERFECT FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT
LRY Media Group
For more information contact Stephanie Achilli, Business Development Manager (205) 463-5372
RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE ARTS CAMPUS 1600 3RD AVE S., BIRMINGHAM
24 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS
WEDDINGS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
in weddings, we will see a lot more Friday and Sunday night weddings.” As brides venture into “the year of weddings,” the variety of dress styles and wedding styles is nearly endless.
From page 20
all dresses sold are sample gowns, and every gown is unique. Every bride leaves the store with their dress in hand. “The gown that every bride selects Bridal Shows Showcase Latest Trends is one they had no expectations of On January 16, The Pink Bride falling in love with.” White said. Show will be held at BirminghamAccording to White, dress styles Jefferson Convention Center. This selected by brides at Bustle Gowns bridal event will feature vary drastically person to person. Birmingham’s prime wedding White notices venues no longer experts, fashion shows, and inspiradetermine the style of dresses that are tional exhibits. This occasion will selected. Instead of seeing cathedral allow brides-to-be an opportunity to trains only in large cathedral wedvisit with vendors, and shop for their dings, brides have started choosing special day. In addition, The Pink individuality and personal taste over Bride Show will present giveaways, what is expected. Brides are paying shopping, and food and beverages. homage to their family members, Tickets are $15, and can be purcultural history, their partners and chased online. even their hobbies. On January 23, Swoozie’s “Our owner, Meredith Carter, is a Birmingham Bridal Showcase will big believer in not having to have a take place at The Summit. Swoozie’s certain style of dress to fit a bride’s will be kickvenue or ing off the location, it’s year of weda new thing dings by celeand really brating brides different.” with this White said. annual event. White Brides will be reveals there able to schedwill be an 5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 ule one on one abundance of 980-9030 wedding conbreaking trasoutheasternjewelers.net sultations, dition in the (1/4 mile off 280) view custom wedding cul- The Pink Bride Show will include giveture this year. aways, shopping, and food and beverages. invitation options, and Intimate wedget inspiration for various wedding dings, out-of-order ceremonies, and celebrations. This event will also feamodern and edgy twists featuring ture hundreds of personalized gift neon lights and disco balls are a few options ideal for bridal parties. of the trends White noticed when Birmingham Jefferson speaking to brides this year. Renee Convention Complex will host the “It’s been really awesome to see Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., Alabama Bridal & Wedding Expo, new styles and twists explode and to 05-824-1246, fax featuring dozens of wedding industry watch people get creative with their anuary experts on May 15. Over 36 different ceremonies.” White said. types of wedding professionals will Cathy Kelley is enamored by the s your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the January 13, 2022 be in attendance, ranging from bakse contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. wedding boom. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246. eries and entertainment, to florists She noted that, as two years’ and photographers. The interactive worth of weddings are fit into one, Please make sure all information is correct, expo will offer food and dessert tastmany brides will be involved in including address and phone number! ings, fashion shows, live music and multiple weddings other than their giveaways. If registered online prior own throughout the year. Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. “One client said she will be in six to the event, admission is free. If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Tickets will be sold at the door for weddings in the new year,” Kelley your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. said. “Since there is such an increase $10.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Rembert-Brown
Mary Ellison Rembert and Douglas Ford Brown were married January 30, 2021, at Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Birmingham, followed by a reception at Events at Haven. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Robert J. Sullivan. Vocalist for the ceremony was Lauren Marino, lector was Dean Romano Jr. and program attendants were Foster Stearns Marshall, Mary Charles Marshall and Sydney Allen Marshall. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Britton Rembert of Vestavia Hills. She is the granddaughter of Marie Carbonie Romano and Sammie Stearns Rembert. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Phillip Brown of Hoover. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Aliva Edward Landers. Attending the bride as maids of honor were Alexandra Denise Andrews and Mary Genevieve Stewart. Bridesmaids were Caroline Hunter Baldy, Brehany Santee Brown, Camilla Hynds Brown, Sara Katherine Burkett, Caroline Elizabeth Coate, Hannah Adair Eans, Madison Elizabeth Miller and Hannah Lee Yarmowich. Serving the groom as best man was his father, Doug Phillip Brown. Groomsmen were Andrew Lee Abele, Kevin Tuck Borie, William Hunter Basden, Jacob Patrick Callahan, Christopher David Johnson, Zachary Bryant Johnson, Marcus Brian Lefebvre, James Britton Rembert Jr. and Joseph Michael Stephens. After a wedding trip to the Keys, the couple reside in Vestavia Hills.
LUCY WANTS
YOU
TO COME IN AND
JEWELERS 1678 Montgomery Hwy • Hoover, AL 1678 MONTGOMERY HWY 205.978.5880 • www.shaysjewelers.com HOOVER, AL 35216 205.978.5880 I WWW.SHAYSJEWELERS.COM FOLLOW US ON
REGISTER! 2841 Cahaba Road Mtn. Brook Village • 879-5277 M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-4 www.thecookstoremtnbrook.com
Share Your Good News To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 205-823-9646 or email: editorial@otmj.com
We Rise
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Local Young Men Earn Eagle Scout Rank Reed Coleman Bates
Reed Coleman Bates earned the rank of Eagle Scout from the Vulcan District Eagle Board in May and was honored at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor in November. In his scouting career, Bates earned 21 merit badges; was inducted into the Order of the Arrow, which is scouting’s national honor Reed Coleman Bates society; and held the leadership roles of assistant patrol leader, quartermaster, patrol quartermaster and den chief. In 2019, Bates experienced a Northern Tier High Adventure
Photo courtesy Lily Janas
By Lily Janas We rise before the sun. At 2 a.m., we move with silent purpose. We slip on our black socks, lace our Dinkles, tighten our suspenders, fasten each silver button on our jackets and smooth our braids down. The noise at breakfast, the buzz of conversations and clink of silverware, reminds us that we’d all rather be sleeping, but we’re up for a reason. Scanning the crowd, I can point out the coffee addicts being deprived of their caffeine by the scowl they all sport as they eye the forbidden dispensers in the corner. But we’ve learned from past mistakes and know that coffee before a parade is a bad idea. I fall asleep on the bus to Pasadena and wake to Mr. Pence on the phone. He turns to me with a trademark big smile and thumbs up. I know it is time. After hours of waiting in the cold, dark morning, we watch the sun rise over the silhouette of palm trees, unraveling across the endless expanse of sky above us. It is a moment of reassurance. We make our way to our starting point, beset by stands of Utah fans donning red gear and underdog enthusiasm. The staff begin a countdown to step-off. An hour. Thirty minutes. Ten. Five. Now. Suddenly, fireworks erupt from the opening float, shooting between the trees. Music perfumes the air. “It’s starting,” we whisper to each other, pushing our shoulders back, gripping our instruments in Mickey Mouse hands. The flyover glides above us like some extraterrestrial thing. It doesn’t seem real. All at once, the drums boom. Feet begin to mark time, stepping off into the throng of the parade. My heart pounds. I remind myself that we have worked for this. I can see the first turn ahead of us. Despite our endless practice, I am overwhelmed by a sense of dread. When the pic-
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 25
PEOPLE
When we finally finish, rounding the last turn, we fall from our block and scramble to find friends. We wrap our arms around each other, laughing and shouting and crying. “We did it,” we whisper with beaming smiles and brows beaded in sweat. We did it. tures come out later that day, I can hardly contain a smile – the turn is perfect. As we march, a scene unfolds ahead of me, an unending city street (for some reason polluted by tortillas) packed with people cheering, screaming for us. The day turns hot quickly. The Rose Parade is six miles, which is an unholy length to march. It is a trial
of mental toughness. As I look back on it now, the parade is a blur; however, in the moment, that was far from true. My throat burned. My legs ached. But that is not what I will remember from that day. I will forget the early morning, the hours of waiting, the frustration, the exhaustion. There is a point in the parade, near the end, where we pass under
the highway. Spectators camp on the sloping sides of the underpass, crouched in anticipation. When we pass through, the sound of Flag Doodle swells in our ears, bouncing and resounding around us. We really are loud. For a moment, I am suspended in sound, lifted off of my aching feet by utter joy. As we march out, the mountains stand on the hori-
expedition in Bisset Manitoba, Canada. The trip included seven days of camping, fishing and canoeing with portages in the boundary waters of Canada. For his Eagle project, Bates helped Cornerstone Elementary School by designing and constructing three large sunshades on the playground to provide shade for the teachers and students. He raised the money needed to complete the project and was able to make a $500 donation to Cornerstone. Bates is a junior at Mountain Brook High School, where he is a member of the varsity wrestling team. He also is a member of Canterbury United Methodist Church and Bigtime Ministries. Coleman is the son of Ashley and Reed Bates of Mountain Brook.
United Methodist Church, has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He was recognized in a Court of Honor ceremony on Nov. 21. During his years in scouting, Parker earned 25 merit badges, completed more than 100 service hours in the community and served in numerous leadership positions, including senior patrol leader, assistant patrol leader, camping coordinator, patrol leader and two terms as quartermaster. He has gone on several adventure trips, Andrew Morgan including the Parker Jr., Northern Tier Expedition trip in Bissett, Canada, biking 66 miles on the Chief Ladiga trail, and three white water rafting trips on the Ocoee River.
Parker’s Eagle project was at Avondale Elementary School, where he upgraded and revitalized the outdoor garden classroom by managing the fundraising, purchase and installation of fans, lighting and landscaping improvements. The additions allow the school to use the classroom more comfortably during hot weather, as well as at night, which enables teachers to include parents in outdoor garden learning events. Parker is a junior at Mountain Brook High School and a member of Church of the Highlands. He is the son of Staci and Drew Parker.
Andrew Morgan Parker Jr.
Andrew Morgan Parker Jr., a Mountain Brook resident and member of Boy Scout Troop 63 at Canterbury
Jack North Welsh
Jack North Welsh earned the rank of Eagle Scout from the Vulcan District Eagle Board in September and was honored at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor in November. In his scouting career, Welsh earned 21 merit badges and held
zon, perfect purple and green against the blue blue sky. I am overcome by the sound, by the view, but most of all by pride and gratitude, for this moment and all the ones that came before. I try to stifle the tears welling in my eyes, but they leak out anyway. “Almost there,” someone shouts. A few people let out whoops, a battle cry against fatigue. Almost there. Almost. When we finally finish, rounding the last turn, we fall from our block and scramble to find friends. We wrap our arms around each other, laughing and shouting and crying. “We did it,” we whisper with beaming smiles and brows beaded in sweat. We did it. I’ve gotten to be a part of this thing, this beautiful, crazy community of 400, for the past four years. It truly has been the best. Of course, the best is hard to see sometimes. Sometimes you wake up at 2 a.m. Sometimes they won’t let you drink coffee. Sometimes you wait for too long. Sometimes you practice the same turn a million times. Sometimes your lungs burn and your legs ache. Sometimes you doubt yourself. But at the end of the day, there will be a smile and thumbs up, a sunrise, a perfect turn, a street full of fans, a moment of lift and the mountains in the distance as a sign of victory, and that is what makes it all worth it. We rise before the sun, but we rise together as one, as the Homewood Patriot Marching Band. Lily Janas is a student at Homewood High School and president of the Homewood Patriot Marching Band. Her band director, Christopher Cooper, says of her: “She is an amazing young lady who is our band president and the volleyball captain. She is the true spirit of our school system’s philosophy. A well-rounded student who excels in athletics, fine arts and academics and is able to do all of those and not choose!” leadership roles of assistant patrol leader and outdoor ethics guide. For his Eagle project, he worked with St. Francis Xavier school to install four outdoor learning environments for students during the pandemic. He raised the money needed to complete the project and was able to make a donation to St. Francis Xavier School. Welsh is a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. He is a junior at Mountain Brook High School, where he is a member of the Mountain Brook soccer Jack North Welsh team. He also plays competitively for Birmingham United Soccer Association. He is a member of Bigtime Ministries. Welsh is the son of Corey Walker and John Welsh of Mountain Brook.
Breaking Through
SPORTS
Talented Lady Rebels Setting Sights on State Basketball Tournament
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Chip on Their Shoulders Oak Mountain Boys Basketball Team out to Prove Naysayers Wrong
By Rubin E. Grant
John David Smelser took the Vestavia Hills girls basketball team to the brink of the Final Four in his first two seasons as head coach only to see the Lady Rebels come up short in the regional finals. This year, Smelser believes the Lady Rebels will finally break through and earn a berth in the Class 7A state tournament. He is counting on a blend of experience and youth to get Vestavia Hills to BJCC’s Legacy Arena, site of the Final Four. “We have some seniors back and a lot of girls who are talented,” Smelser said. “We play four freshmen in the rotation. The upperclassmen have been doing a good job of showing the young girls the ropes.” Vestavia Hills entered this week with a 19-2 record after a narrow 49-47 loss to HewittTrussville last Friday in the Lady Rebels’ Class 7A, Area 6 opener. Their other loss was 64-55 to defending Class 7A champion Hoover on Dec. 9. Smelser, who led Vestavia Hills to a combined 53-15 record in his first two seasons, is not surprised by his team’s success. “From a talent standpoint I knew we could be where we are,” he said. “We are happy, but not satisfied.”
Oak Mountain boys basketball coach Chris Love doesn’t talk to his team about repeating as Class 7A state champions. Instead, he focuses on the daily improvements the Eagles need to make. “I don’t know whether we’ve said two words about repeating all season,” Love said. “We talk about having fun, being a family, giving great effort and trying to get better every day.” That approach is working for the Eagles. They entered the New Year with a 15-3 record after winning the Oak Mountain Invitational after Christmas with victories against Briarwood (50-20), Clay-Chalkville (68-32) and Paul Bryant (35-29). Last week, the Eagles defeated Oxford 47-42 at home and edged Tuscaloosa County 54-52 on the road in their Class 7A, Area 5 opener to improve to 17-3. The Eagles are doing it without two of their most valuable players from last season, 6-foot5 swingman Noah Young, who graduated, and 6-11 center Will Shaver, who left early to get a head start on his college career at North Carolina. “We love Will and Noah,” Love said. “We lost about 30 points and 20 rebounds a game with them leaving, but we’ve still got a lot of good returning players.” Even so, coming into the season, the Eagles were given little chance to repeat after claiming the school’s first state title last year. The skepticism has motivated them. “This group has a chip on their shoulders because some question whether they can repeat,” Love said. “They want to prove them wrong and prove they can get the job done. They’re a competitive group, so I am not surprised by the success we’ve had.” Guards Wilder Evers, a 6-3 junior, and Brady Dunn, a 6-2 senior, have been leading the way. Evers is averaging 12.9 points and 5.0 rebounds. Dunn is averaging 13.3 points and 5.0 rebounds. “Wilder has been great,” Love said. “He’s gotten bigger and stronger and is so tough at finishing at the rim. He just keeps making play after play, and he’s our best on-ball defender. “Brady has improved his all-around game, and his athleticism is so much better. He’s always been able to shoot, but now he’s added the element of getting to the rim, and he’s rebounding better. He doesn’t say two words, but he’s our leader in action and toughness.” The Eagles also are getting solid contributions from 6-4 senior forward Ryan Giegel, 6-4 junior guard Matthew Heiberger, 6-0 senior guard Ean Gove and 6-5 senior forward Gavin
Leading Talent
Vestavia has three seniors, all named Smith. Emma and Ally Smith are twins and are playing their fifth season on the varsity. Carley Smith, unrelated to them, is also a starter. “The twins are great,” Smelser said. “Emma is averaging 15.0 points per game and went over 1,700 points for her career and is now the leading scorer in Vestavia basketball history. Ally is shooting the ball really well and Carley can shoot the three.” Junior Anna Towry is another key upperclassman. The talented freshmen are Sarah Gordon, Jill Gaylard, Grayson Hudgens and Jordan Madsen. “Sarah Gordon has been spectacular,” Smelser said. “She was playing middle school basketball last year at Pizitz, but she’s been starting for us. She’s a tall big guard at 5-foot11. She shoots well and can score inside. “Jill Gaylard played as an eighth grader last year. Grayson Hudgens played up a little bit last year as well. Jordan Madsen is also from Pizitz. She brings size to our team. She’s 5-11 and she rebounds really well. “Sarah and the other three are playing a lot of minutes. They are not playing like ninth graders. With our sophomores, Mallory Cowan and Ally Perry, the future is bright.” The Rebels play an up-tempo style, so
FLURRY From page 28
ment will be held Feb. 11-12 in Birmingham and the state tournament will be Feb. 17-19 in Huntsville. “I haven’t decided which weight I’m going to wrestle at yet,” Flurry said. Flurry has been wrestling for 10 years, starting when he was 8 years old because a neighborhood buddy
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
By Rubin E. Grant
Emma Smith, above, is averaging 15.0 points per game and went over 1,700 points for her career and is now the leading scorer in Vestavia basketball history.
Smelser constantly shuffles players in and out. “We’re playing 10 to 11 players a game,” he said. “We’re still pressing and going quick and scoring a lot of points. A lot of that has to do with our defense and we space the floor well and most of the time we have five shooters on the floor. “We have a mix of good shooters and players who can drive the ball to the basket. Then you throw in Sarah Gordon, who can score inside and outside. Emma is another one like Sarah, who can score inside and out. Jordan Madsen scores a lot in the post, too.” The Lady Rebels continue area play this week, visiting Gadsden City Tuesday and playing host to Spain Park on Friday. “We’re in a tough area,” Smelser said. “Hewitt is good and has three good guards. Spain Park is well-coached and Gadsden City has some good athletes.” Despite their impressive record, Smelser hopes the Lady Rebels haven’t reached their peak. “I was telling somebody the other day that’s it’s scary playing as well as we are because it’s still January,” Smelser said. “We don’t want to be peaking now. I hope we can keep it going and continue to improve, so we’ll be playing good ball in February.”
was a wrestler. In those early days, Flurry usually got beat. “I was not very good at the start,” he said. “When you start out, it’s always tough because you have to get some experience before you can be successful. A lot of time guys start out when they’re 5, so when I started I was wrestling against kids who already had experience.” Flurry still had little success as he gained experience. It wasn’t until high
school that he became a consistent winner. “I didn’t win any titles when I was in middle school,” Flurry said. “I really didn’t start working hard at it until I got to high school. I started putting a lot more work into it and doing all the weight training.” Flurry wasn’t on the Rebels’ varsity as a freshman, but his hard work paid off when he reached the Class 7A 106-pound final as a sophomore. He finished second, losing to
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
26 • Thursday, January 13, 2022
Wilder Evers, above, is averaging 12.9 points and 5.0 rebounds a game for the 17-3 defending state champions Oak Mountain.
Nelson. Giegel is averaging 8.0 points and leads the team in three-point field goal shooting at 41%. Heiberger is a versatile left-handed shooter. Gove has stepped into the starting lineup while multi-talented senior guard Evan Smith is nursing a knee injury. Smith is expected be sidelined another two weeks. “Ean has given us outstanding value at the point,” Love said. “He’s taking care of the basketball, making big shots and playing key minutes.” Nelson has been dealing with a wrist injury but is almost back to full health. “We’ve had different guys stepping up,” Love said. “They are a great group of kids who care about each other and care about Oak Mountain basketball.” The Eagles have two more Area 5 games this week, playing host to Hoover on Tuesday and visiting Thompson on Thursday. “I think our area is good from top to bottom,” Love said. “Hoover has gotten better over the last year, Tuscaloosa County has two really good players and are the best they’ve been in five years and Thompson is better than they were last year even though they are young. “It’s going to be fun competition game in and game out.”
Thompson’s Blaise Albarado in the championship match. Then as a junior he put together the undefeated season. “It doesn’t happen often,” Flurry said right after completing his unbeaten season. “When it happened, I couldn’t believe it. It’s nice to be part of a very small group (from Vestavia Hills).” Flurry relies on precision and smarts to win matches. “Technique is the thing for me,”
he said. “I’m not the biggest guy by any stretch and I’m not the strongest or the quickest, but my technique has taken me pretty far.” This season will be Flurry’s swan song as a wrestler. He doesn’t plan to wrestle in college “Being a college athlete takes too much time,” he said. So he would like to go out on top. “I would hate to end my wrestling career on a loss. I want to finish strong. I want to go out doing what I’ve been doing and win.”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
COACHES
‘Bitter Sweet’ for Niblett
From page 28
when you put everything into it and give your heart to it, whether you’ve been there a year or 49 years, as Coach Anderson was,” Calhoun said. “It’s hard to say goodbyes when you’re talking to players and coaches. “The players, they’re kids and sometimes they don’t fully grasp the decisions adults make, but they’re resilient. I appreciate the time we had together. There was more quality time than quantity. I told them they were heading in the right direction and they’re in good hands with the current staff and administration.” Calhoun called Anderson to let him know about his decision. Anderson was the Rebels’ head coach for 43 seasons and an assistant at Vestavia Hills six years before being elevated to the head job. “He never said he was disappointed and he was awesome as ever,” Calhoun said. “He told me to keep impacting kids for Christ. I thanked him for his guidance and wisdom. He’s done more for me than many people know. “I’m definitely going to miss the relationships I was able to cultivate at Vestavia. When you get around good people, coaches and players, it’s hard to leave.” Vestavia Hills plans to begin interviews to replace Calhoun this week.
Thursday, January 13, 2022 • 27
SPORTS Josh Niblett’s tenure as Hoover’s head football coach is over after 14 years. Niblett announced in December that he was resigning. “First of all, today is a little bitter sweet,” Niblett said during a news conference at the Hoover Met. “This has been my home for the last 14 years. It’s where I’ve raised my children. It’s not just about football. It’s about working for a great administration. Working for your best friend as your athletic director (Andy Urban) and watching your children grow up in a community. “Today has been hard. It’s been tough. Everything that has transpired today has been pretty quick. I’ve never thought about leaving Hoover. I’m not that kind of guy. I’m not a job searcher. I’m not sitting on the computer looking at football scoop to see what the next job is. It’s just not me. I’ve always been where my feet are.” According to news reports,
Niblett will be named the new head coach at Gainesville (Georgia) High on Monday. Niblett did not confirm those reports, but he said he would accept a position at another school early next week. “I see myself as a visionarian,” Niblett said. “It’s all about impacting lives. I have a vision of where I’m going. There’s some opportunities where I’m going that will be unbelievable and unprecedented.” Niblett compiled a 171-26 record at Hoover, including consecutive 15-0 seasons in 2012 and 2013, and led the Bucs to six state championships. This season the Bucs finished 12-1, losing to eventual state champion Thompson in Class 7A semifinals. Niblett replaced Rush Propst at Hoover in 2008 following head coaching stops at Oneonta and Oxford. He posted a 51-14 record in five seasons at Oneonta and won the 2004 Class 3A state championship. He was 14-18 in three seasons at Oxford. His overall record is 236-58.
Urban said Hoover hopes to have a new coach hired by the January Hoover Board of Education meeting. “We are going to get the best coach for Hoover High School and I say that in a factual way,” Urban
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Breaking Through Talented Lady Rebels setting sights on state basketball tournament. Page 26
SPORTS
Thursday, January 13, 2022 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Chip on Their Shoulders Oak Mountain boys basketball team out to prove naysayers wrong. Page 26
Coaching Changes
Calhoun Leaves As Rebels’ Head Football Coach After One Season; Niblett Leaving Hoover After 14 Seasons, 6 State Championships
Last year, Vestavia’s Zach Flurry became only the third Rebels wrestler to finish undefeated, posting a 21-0 record while capturing the Class 7A 113pound title. Flurry has been wrestling for 10 years, starting when he was 8 years old because a neighborhood buddy was a wrestler.
TITLE QUEST
Vestavia Hills’ Flurry Seeking Second State Wrestling Championship By Rubin E. Grant
V
estavia Hills senior Zach Flurry was hoping to have another unbeaten season on the wrestling mat. Last year, he became only the third Rebels wrestler to finish undefeated, posting a 21-0 record while capturing the Class 7A 113pound title. He joined James Edwards, who was 32-0 when he won the 220-pound title in 2017, and Jeff Segars, who was an undefeated state champion in 1986 at 185 pounds. Flurry won his first 13 matches this season, stretching his streak of consecutive wins to 34, but his dreams of another unbeaten season were dashed when he lost to a wrestler from Louisiana in the 126-pound championship match in the Trey Culotta Invitational Dec. 21 in New Orleans. The loss was disappointing, but Flurry still can become a two-time state champion.
“I wanted to have another undefeated season, but that won’t happen now, so I want to win state again,” Flurry said. Flurry suffered his second loss of the season
‘Technique is the thing for me. I’m not the biggest guy by any stretch and I’m not the strongest or the quickest, but my technique has taken me pretty far.’ last Saturday, falling to Hewitt-Trussville’s Dalton Zimmerman in the 126-pound match as the Rebels dropped a 34-32 decision to the Huskies to finish second in Class 7A, Region 3. Flurry wasn’t at full strength. He had missed
Vestavia Hills’ dual match victory against Spain Park two days earlier because of a cold. “I was still coming back from being sick,” he said. Flurry expects to be completely healthy when the Rebels visit Huntsville in the quarterfinals of the Alabama High School Athletic Association Wrestling Duals Tournament this weekend. The Duals semifinals are scheduled for Jan. 18 and the finals set for Jan. 21 at Bill Harris Arena at the Birmingham CrossPlex. The Rebels were Class 7A runners-up in the Duals to Thompson in 2020 and 2021. They won the Duals in 2017, the first year they were held. Following the Duals, Flurry (21-2) is not sure if he will continue to wrestle at 126 pounds or move up to compete in the 132-pound weight class as he gets ready for the AHSAA sectional and state tournaments. The super section tourna-
See FLURRY, page 26
See COACHES, page 27
Journal photo by Lee Walls
Sean Calhoun wasn’t planning to leave Vestavia Hills just a year after replacing Rebels legendary football coach Buddy Anderson, that is unless something special happened. Well, something special did happen. Colquitt County, Georgia, called and asked Calhoun to become its head coach. And last week, Calhoun accepted their offer and will return to a school where he had been the Packers’ offensive coordinator under Rush Propst in 2014 and 2015. “It was not a situation where I was just going to stay a year and leave,” Calhoun said. “We’re trying to follow the Lord. There are not many places I would Colquitt County, leave to go to, but Georgia, called and this is a special asked Calhoun to place. They called and I listened, then become its head coach. I prayed about it. It’s amazing how it happened it so fast. “I was there for two years. There are some good people there who love the Packers and love the sport of football. The whole community is tightknit. It’s one I felt I wanted to go be a part of and continue Niblett said during a to grow in coaching news conference at the and grow my fami- Hoover Met, above, his decision to leave was ly.” Calhoun’s resig- ‘bitter sweet’. nation from Vestavia Hills will become effective Feb. 1. He guided the Rebels to a 4-6 record in 2021 in his only season at the helm. A native of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Calhoun came to Vestavia Hills from Carrollton, Georgia, where he won three region titles, made five quarterfinal playoff appearances and compiled a 51-12 record in five seasons as head coach. Calhoun had an emotional meeting with the Rebels’ players and assistant coaches Jan. 5 to inform them of his decision. “It’s never easy to leave a place, especially
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
By Rubin E. Grant