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THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2022

‘Stand with Ukraine’ Russian/Ukrainian Family Settled in Homewood, Organized Solidarity Rally at Railroad Park

By Ally Morrison

R Photo by Hank Spencer

ita Meikson and her son, Ilya Blokh, were the driving forces behind a recent event at Railroad Park that gave Birmingham residents the opportunity to show support for Ukraine and its people.

Residents who are part of Birmingham’s Ukrainian community and residents who are not stood together during the event to protest Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Meikson particularly wanted to show her support because she is Russian.

“I know there are a lot of Ukrainian people in Birmingham, and I want to show them that we care,” Meikson said. “Being Russian, I want people to know we aren’t on Putin’s side. When it started, I had this feeling of guilt. I left Russia 30 years ago and never once voted for

Ruling over the 54th and 55th annual Beaux Arts Krewe Ball was King Thomas Atkinson Roberts. Queen of this year’s ball was Sarah Randall Hydinger, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elbridge Thornton Hydinger Jr.

See UKRAINE, page 6

A Regal Affair

T

he 54th and 55th annual Beaux Arts Krewe Ball took place at Boutwell Auditorium on Feb. 25, after last year’s ball was postponed due to COVID. For the past 55 years, the ball has served as a fundraiser for the Krewe Acquisition Fund, and the money has gone to the Birmingham Museum of Art,

enabling it to spend more than $1 million to purchase important European paintings, sculptures and drawings.

These works of art are used in tours for school children and serve as inspiration for the studio art program.

Ruling over the event was King Thomas Atkinson Roberts. He was joined by his wife, Laura, and Queen Sarah

Randall Hydinger, escorted by Andrew Lee Sink.

Presented as the queen’s ladies in waiting were Helen Caroline Abele, with trainbearer Sally Frances Blair; Carolanne Hodge Berte, with trainbearer Carleton Leighton Neighbors; Isabelle Virginia DeBuys, with trainbearer Marion Please turn to page 12

Ilya Blokh

Beaux Arts Krewe Ball Extends Mardi Gras Tradition

Rita Meikson, right, with her son, Ilya Blokh, at a rally in Railroad Park to show support for Ukraine and its people.

2 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

OPINION/CONTENTS

Inside

Murphy’s Law

M A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS Black-Tie-Optional Gala offers dinner and amusements to support Mitchell’s Place PAGE 4

RESOURCE FAIR Altamont student organizes fair focused on teens and mental health PAGE 8

‘CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE’ Birmingham makes its mark on the James Beard semifinalists list PAGE 20

RUN WITH AMBITION RISE’s Rebel 5K Color Run raises money to battle children’s cancer PAGE 29

ABOUT TOWN NEWS LIFE SOCIAL

3 6 8 12

FOOD HOME SCHOOLS SPORTS

20 22 29 32

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 JOURNAL

Mailbox And Minutae

y mailbox has a sign imprintgo to the right, everything else to the ed on the door that says, left for additional screening. Right “Approved by the Postmaster now, I’m struggling with piles of politGeneral.” I was relieved to see it, ical ads. Some are short and straightalthough I am surprised that the forward. I read them until I get to a Postmaster General has time to worry breach of one of my deal-breaker about what a mailbox looks like in issues (there are many), and then they Birmingham, Alabama. I picture the go in the reject pile. poor man sitting at his desk as people Somehow, I have made my way parade in nonstop saying, “How about onto the mailing list of both political this one?” I’ve seen pictures of mailparties, which, in a perfect world, boxes that look like cows and would be the ideal way to begin an Winnebagos, so I’m guessing he must open-minded decision, but so far, it’s Sue Murphy be pretty open-minded. not working out that way. Many Inspecting the mail that is delivered weighty envelopes include surveys to my mailbox, however, is up to sent by official-sounding organizame, and I am not nearly as accomtions using the words “patriot” or Somehow, I have modating. I go out to the mailbox “heritage” and include a caveat on made my way onto each day with a great sense of anticthe envelope that only the addressee ipation, even though what follows is the mailing list of both (that would be me) is entitled to this mostly serious work. inside influence of their organizapolitical parties ...

First, I deal with the straight-up tion’s platform. Once you get inside, ads. These are easy. Either I’m however, the tone goes something interested in something or I’m not. like this: A: Do you love your fami20% off at one of my favorite stores? Yes, please! An ly? (Yes or No) B. Do you want your family to be safe? application for a new credit card? No, thank you.

(Yes or No) The “C” part goes on to name their oppoCatalogs face the same scrutiny. If I’m currently in nent as the sinister blockade to my safety and freedom the market for what they offer, they go to the “Read” and the future of the world as we know it. At the end, pile. If not, I remove the name label and send them to of course, mentioned in a BTW sort of way, is a plea the great Recycling Beyond, although, sometimes on a for me to send them money so they can buy more pitchrainy day, I go through them just for sport. forks to storm the castle. Nope.

The charity pleas are tougher. They are all worthy After all that carnage, there is little left, but occacauses, so I have set my accept/reject line at how the sionally, occasionally, there is a card, a little note, a organization spends the money they’ve already been wonderfully unexpected communication from a faraway given. I hang onto the envelopes of the charities I know friend that makes my whole day. And that, my friends, and trust and leave room for new local concerns that is what motivates me to go back out to the mailbox have demonstrated concrete, boots-on-the-ground prog- tomorrow. ress. I never feel good after that part of the process, but Intermittent reinforcement. It’s a powerful force, the that’s the job of the Murphy Family Postmaster carrot to all that mailbox stick. The ad people, political General. or otherwise, would do well to remember that. So says By then, I’m down to mail that looks official. Bills the Murphy Family Postmaster General.

Over the Mountain Views

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

March 10, 2022 JOU RNAL 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

Vol. 32, No. 15

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.

RUN WITH AMBITION Vestavia High School’s Rebel Impact through Service and Engagement group held its annual Rebel 5K Color Run at Vestavia high on March 5. Participants from sixth graders to adults ran in the event, and proceeds benefit the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program of the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MAR 10 - MAR 24 Mar. 10-12 Alabama Waldorf School Under the Stars Spring Gala and Auction The annual AWS Spring Fundraising Gala will feature live music, dinner, a silent auction and more all while recognizing this year’s Honoree, Cynthia Mwenja. The AWS Silent Auction will open online on Thursday to anyone, anywhere. When: 6-10 p.m. Where: The Kress Building Rooftop

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 3

ABOUT TOWN been held for more than a decade.

After the race, runners can enjoy a post-race party featuring free t-shirts, medals, a kids zone and live music.

When: 7:30 a.m. Where: Grand Bohemian Hotel

And the parents will love it, too! The performance is about 45-50 minutes, just right for young theatre-goers When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Homewood Theatre

In Birmingham Children’s Theatre musical production of this classic tale Jojo the circus monkey and friends need a train to take them to Capital City, but Little Blue isn’t sure they are up to the task – can the audience help encourage Little Blue to overcome their fears? perfect for kids ages 3-8!

David Phelps

THURS., MAR. 17

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! Homewood Rotary Club St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser

Mar. 17-18

The Little Engine That Could

St. Patty’s Day Live After 5

p.m. Where: Liberty Theatre

Grammy award winning recording artist, David Phelps will bring contemporary Christian music to Hoover’s Liberty Theatre, featuring some of his newest songs from his Gamechanger album. When: 7:30

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by raising scholarship funds for Homewood High School Seniors while enjoying food, beverages, auctions and Celtic music courtesy of Hooley. When: 5:30-9 p.m. Where: Little London Kitchen

Co-hosted by Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and Vestavia City Center, enjoy this free event that will feature live music, local vendors and family fun. When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Vestavia City Center

What’s Up In Riverchase

Riverchase Women’s Club will host their annual “What’s Up In Riverchase” Meeting featuring Mayor Frank Brocato and Chief Nick Derzis.

When: 6:00 p.m. Where: Riverchase Country Club

Sat., Mar. 12 Southminster Scamper

Co-hosted by Southminster Presbyterian Church and Southminster Day School, this event will feature a 5K race, fun run, vendors, Swirls Face Painting and a multitude of family fun activities. Proceeds will benefit Greater Birmingham Ministries and will purchase Smart TV’s for classrooms at Southminster Day School When: 8-11 a.m. Where: Southminster Presbyterian Church

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Shamrock Shindig

The Arc of Central Alabama’s Junior Board is hosting their 10th annual shindig, supporting its mission #inclusionforall people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Food by Back Forty, drinks, live music from The Divines, a signature balloon drop with prizes, and much more.

When: 4 p.m. Where: Back Forty Beer

Mar. 12-13 Birmingham Hammerfest – Let’s Shamrock and Roll

Professional cycling teams from all over the country will race through the streets of Pepper Place Market downtown. The event will include a Kids Zone, Lil’ Shamrock fun ride and more. Proceeds of the event will benefit the Lakeshore Foundation, as they seek to provide healthy lifestyles for people with disabilities. When: 11 a.m. Where: Begins and ends at Cahaba Brewing

Fri., Mar. 11

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Schoolhouse Rock

Cornerstone School’s Junior Board will host the 17th Annual Schoolhouse Rock, benefitting students at Cornerstone Schools. Guests will enjoy a silent auction, live music

by Just A Few Cats, event games and giveaways. All tickets include complimentary drinks, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. When: 7-11 p.m. Where: Regions Field

Sat., Mar. 12 Village 2 Village 10K

This “iconic” race through the neighborhoods of Mountain Brook has

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A Night at the Oscars

4 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

ABOUT TOWN

Black-Tie-Optional Gala Offers Dinner and Amusements to Support Mitchell’s Place

Mitchell’s Place, an organization that provides resources for children affected by autism and other developmental disabilities, will soon host its annual Night at the Oscars Gala.

On March 19, the red carpetinspired event will be held at Haven and will provide guests a chance to support the organization during its largest fundraising event of the year.

Gala guests will be treated to a reception, seated dinner by Hastings Catering and live and silent auctions.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the organization and its variety of early intervention programs.

In 2005, after becoming discouraged by the lack of resources for their son Mitchell, Nancy and Allen Meisler founded Mitchell’s Place to provide support to families with children diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The pair grew up in Alabama, but they didn’t meet until after college.

Nancy Meisler attended Auburn University while Allen Meisler went to the University of Alabama.

The two met after moving to the Birmingham area upon graduating, where they married and had children.

But they could not find services Mitchell needed in Alabama.

“We saw the need from a personal standpoint,” Nancy Meisler said. “My husband and I went to a conference in Tuscaloosa put on by the Autism Society that featured speakers from all over the country. We heard a lot about wonderfully innovative therapies for autism, but when we looked around, we didn’t know where to access that in Alabama. Resources were so scattered and nothing was under one roof, and we wanted to do something about it.”

Designed Programs With Experts

With the help of experts from different school systems and Auburn University, the Meisler family created

Photo courtesy

By Ally Morrison

The Meisler family at the 2020 Night at the Oscars Gala, from left: Allen, son Mitchell, Nancy, and daughter Anna Zarzour with her husband, Gaines Zarzour.

the basis of their Early Learning Program, which is still being used today.

“Mitchell was 9 years old when we started planning, in 2004,” Meisler said. “We broke ground and established a nonprofit status in October of that year, and by February of 2005, our Early Learning Program was full.

We opened in August.”

Over the past 16 years, Mitchell’s Place has combined a variety of programs and therapies to help children in need of a place that provides learning opportunities and social interaction. In addition to the original Early Learning Program, the organization implements applied behavioral analysis therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and feeding therapy.

“We have four classrooms ages 2 to 6, and in each classroom half of the children are on the autism spectrum, while half of them are developing peers,” Meisler said. “These students serve as role models for social interaction, and these four classrooms consist of about 40 students.”

According to Meisler, insurance

companies in Alabama now are required to cover ABA therapy, under a law passed in 2017. Since this

‘We felt like Southside would open a little more opportunity locationwise for some families in need and also helped us to accommodate students so we could get them into programming as soon as possible. Early intervention is very important.’

NANCY MEISLER

development, many more people can afford services for their children.

Because of this increase in people

looking for support, Mitchell’s place opened a new facility.

In 2021, Mitchell’s Place expanded its services to Southside, where Meisler has hopes of diminishing the number of children on a waitlist.

“We felt like Southside would open a little more opportunity locationwise for some families in need and also helped us to accommodate students so we could get them into programming as soon as possible,” Meisler said. “Early intervention is very important.”

The Meisler’s have lived in the Birmingham area for more than 40 years and recently have moved back to Mountain Brook, in the same city their children attended school.

Meisler has been a part of many organizations around Birmingham, such as the Heart Guild of Birmingham, in addition to serving on UAB’s School of Nursing Board of Visitors as well as YWCA’s junior board.

For more information, visit mitchells-place.com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Gala Raises Funds for Veterans and Former College Players in Need Lettermen of the USA will be hosting the 3rd annual One Yard at a Time Gala at The Club on March 11.

The event will feature dinner, music and a live auction by Jack Granger of Granger, Thagard and Associates.

During the gala, guests will have the opportunity to meet and celebrate with military heroes, former college professional football players and coaches.

Proceeds from the gala and live auction will benefit discharged veterans, wounded veterans and former college players in need, as well as supporting the Goode Foundation in its fight against Eli Gold, the radio ALS. Eli Gold, the voice of the Crimson radio voice of Tide, will be the athletic honoree. the Crimson Tide, will be the athletic honoree. The military honoree will be retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Willie Williams. Both honorees will speak about the parallels of sports and military service.

Funds raised in the community throughout 2022 will be used to purchase land to build the first Fisher House in Alabama. The Fisher Foundation has dedicated more than $20 million to the construction of comfort homes for families of hospitalized military personnel to stay free of charge.

Assistance League Presents Its One Starry Night Gala The Assistance League of Birmingham’s signature fundraiser, the One Starry Night Gala, will be a glamorous evening of dinner and dancing March 10 in The Club.

The honoree for this year’s event is Andrew Hancock, division president of D.R. Horton America’s Builder.

Hancock has been a big supporter of the Assistance League during his 17 years in the Birmingham area, serving for four years on the group’s advisory board. He also is an active contributor to the American Cancer Society and the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation.

Festivities will include a silent auction, seated dinner, live auction and live music courtesy of The Bassmen, according to information supplied by the league.

The event raises money for two philanthropic programs, Operation School Bell and PrimeTime Treasures.

Operation School Bell provides new clothes and books to 1,600 area elementary school children each year, and PrimeTime Treasures offers financial opportunities to area senior citizens by giving them a place to sell their crafts.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 5

ABOUT TOWN Sat., Mar. 19

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

The four musicians in Classical Mystery Tour look and sound just like The Beatles, but Classical Mystery Tour is more than just a rock concert. Get ready for goosebumps when you hear your favorite Beatles songs impeccably performed with the entire ASO, in full force, Christopher Confessore, conductor. COVID-19 protocols will be in place for this event. When: 8 p.m. Where: Alabama Theatre

Enjoying Zoo Brews in 2021 were, from left, Daniel and Katy Lincoln and Emily and Neil Caudle and Grace Anthony.

ZOO BREWS: DRAFTS AT DISTANCE| FRI., MARCH 18

Back by popular demand. Craft beer lovers will enjoy a wide selection of beverages from the finest specialty brews and wines. Experience breweries from all over Alabama and the southeast while you travel through the Zoo. Local food truck vendors and the Zoo’s Wild Burger restaurant will be serving light concessions. For adults 21 and up. When: 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Where: Birmingham Zoo

Expanding Darshan: Manjari Sharma, To See and Be Seen

Birmingham Museum of Art will open a new exhibit, bringing together the striking work of rising star and global contemporary artist, Ms. Manjari Sharma. The exhibit will explore the expansiveness of the Indic world through works of art from India, Cambodia, Indonesia and Thailand.

When: (Mar. 19 Opening day, Open through Jan. 15, 2023) Where: Birmingham Museum of Art

Heritage Festival, Holi: A Festival of Color

The 11th Annual Holi Festival will celebrate the arrival of spring with Indian dance performances, artmaking activities, live music and the throwing of colors. When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Birmingham Museum of Art

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The Birmingham Museum of Art will host a spring kick-off event highlighting recently opened exhibitions and their fan-favorite permanent collections. Enjoy pop-up performances, live music, activities and more in galleries throughout the BMA. When: 5-9 p.m. Where: Birmingham Museum of Art

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NEWS

6 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Longtime Chamber President Karen Odle Stepping Down in May

Homewood resident Rita Meikson and her son, Ilya Blokh, were the driving forces behind a recent event at Railroad Park, above, that gave Birmingham residents the opportunity to show support for Ukraine and its people.

Putin or his government. But still, being from Russia, I felt like part of the guilt was on me and I wanted to explain to American people and to my students that it was Putin who started the war. Not Russia’s people.”

Meikson, a Russian language teacher at Alabama Waldorf School, emigrated from Moscow in 1992 with her family. Her husband, Alexander Blokh, originally is from the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, which has been enduring Russia’s shelling of civilians in recent days.

He took a job as a math professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham shortly after the family entered the country.

Blokh spoke last week about friends of his who were in Ukraine at the time of the Russian attack.

“A square in Kharkiv known as Freedom Square was bombed and some people lost their lives. When you look at photos, it looks like World War II. I had only seen this kind of thing in movies, and now I’m seeing it in the city where I grew up and attended school,” Blokh said.

“One of my friends managed to leave the city,” he continued. “She decided to leave after a shell casing fell into her backyard and a few windows at her apartment complex were damaged. Another very close friend of mine responded to one of my messages saying he was hiding in his basement with his mom because the previous day had been bad. He hasn’t responded to my messages since.”

Settling in Homewood

Meikson and Blokh met in Kharkiv. Meikson explained the two went on a trip to Estonia with friends and then spent a lot of time traveling together. Two years later, the pair were married.

After moving to the Birmingham area, the pair were looking for a place to live.

“When we were looking for a home, neither of us could drive,” Meikson said. “We never had a car in Russia. My husband was looking for good school systems we could walk to, and he planned to take the bus to UAB.” They settled in Homewood.

“When we lived in our first home, we would walk everywhere. The people of Homewood were so good to us.

They would give us rides, and we

‘I make Borscht, a Ukrainian dish, with my students every year. We came up with an idea to make the traditional Ukrainian dish and sell it to parents and faculty as a fundraiser where all of the money can be donated to help Ukraine.’

RITA MEIKSON, A RUSSIAN LANGUAGE TEACHER AT ALABAMA WALDORF SCHOOL

made so many good friends.”

Ilya was 9 years old when he came with his family to the U.S. He grew up in Homewood and eventually moved to Chicago, where he would study computer science at Northwestern University. He now lives in Berlin, Germany.

He and his mother attended another event in the park several years ago, which spawned the idea for the recent

show of solidarity.

“A couple of years ago we participated in a gathering at Railroad Park in support of Alexei Navalny, a Russian leader who was poisoned and put in jail,” Meikson said. “I told my son, let’s do something like that. He composed the message and informed people. We did it together.”

Taking the Message Into the Classroom

Meikson explained how the turmoil in Ukraine has established new challenges inside the classroom where she has spent 17 years.

“When it all started, it was so shocking. For me it’s painful. I have to face my students, and they have a lot of questions. I told them they could ask me anything, and I tried to explain the situation to them. It’s been hard because they grew up in different circumstances. They ask me why Russian people don’t impeach Putin, and I told them he is a dictator. There is no law in Russia.”

Meikson said she offered her students a chance to write letters of support to Ukrainian children, and her students took the opportunity seriously. Students were persistent in asking what they could do to help.

“I make Borscht, a Ukrainian dish, with my students every year,” Meikson said. “We came up with an idea to make the traditional Ukrainian dish and sell it to parents and faculty as a fundraiser where all of the money can be donated to help Ukraine.”

In a letter published by the Alabama Waldorf School, Meikson expressed her support for the people of Ukraine.

“My family and I stand with Ukraine,” she wrote. “We hope that peace may be restored as soon as possible.”

Business and community leaders with the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce have launched a search to replace Karen Odle as president of the organization.

Odle has served in the position for 19 years and is retiring in May. The three-phase process for finding her replacement already has begun and is expected to take about 90 to 120 days.

“Karen is a strong leader for the business community and a great partner with the City of Vestavia Hills,” Sandra Cleveland, a partner with BCR Wealth Strategies and 2022 chair of the chamber, said in a statement from the chamber. “Her energy and relationship building have been the important factors for our organization’s growth and success.”

At the 31st Annual Community Leadership Awards held recently Odle was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. (See story on page 9).

The chamber is a membership organization that serves more than 1,200 retail and service businesses, professionals, individuals and retirees.

It seeks to be a catalyst for economic growth by working with existing businesses, creating partnerships with education entities and striving for quality-of-life improvements in the city.

John Henley, State Farm Insurance agent and chair of the search committee, said the committee has been asking members what character traits and skills they want in a new president.

That was phase one.

In the second stage, the chamber will cast a net to find candidates who fit the criteria established. In the third phase, the chamber will interview candidates to choose the one bestsuited for the role.

“The president needs to be a dynamic collaborator and communi-

cator who understands the important role the chamber plays in our community,” Henley said in the statement.

He said the president also is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the chamber as well as being in charge of government relations/ public policy and partnerships, and being accountable for financial growth and management, talent development and strategic planning and implementation.

‘Karen is a strong leader for the business community and a great partner with the City of Vestavia Hills. Her energy and relationship building have been the important factors for our organization’s growth and success.’

SANDRA CLEVELAND

The committee also is looking for someone with internal-team building skills and an ability to identify community issues and take point in seeking solutions.

The president reports to the executive board and board of directors through its chair.

The board has hired The Chason Group to lead the executive search.

The firm specializes in executive searches for economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, foundations and other nonprofits, according to the statement.

Interested parties may find more information and apply at thechasongroup.com by March 18.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Ilya Blokh

The Search is On for a New Chamber Leader

Karen Odle, above with husband Steve Odle, has served as president of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce for 19 years and is retiring in May.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 7

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LIFE

8 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Altamont Student Organizes Fair Focused on Teens and Mental Health

Savitri Sasse, who lives in Vestavia Hills, chose to organize a Teen Mental Health Fair at the Altamont School on March 5.

Journal photo by Ally Morrison

After seeing a need for mental health education in her school, Altamont School junior Savitri Sasse decided to dedicate her Miree project to the cause.

Students in the Upper School at Altamont participate in a project under the C. Kyser Miree Center for Ethical Leadership. The projects are based on individual interests of the student that serve a need in the greater Birmingham community.

Sasse, who lives in Vestavia Hills, chose to organize a Teen Mental Health Fair at the Altamont School on March 5, in partnership with GirlSpring. She invited local vendors and keynote speakers to participate in the fair.

Sasse explained why she chose to focus on teen mental health and why she chose to do this through a resource fair.

“More recently, I’ve been exposed to people struggling with their mental health,” Sasse said. “My brother did a mental health survey at Altamont, and the results showed that people were having more mental health issues, especially during the pandemic. His survey was the foundation for my project, and I wanted to build on it.”

Sasse said she originally planned to create a blog for her Miree Project, but her counselor suggested she organize a fair, and she thought that was a good idea.

“I thought the fair was a good idea because my friends were having a hard time accessing resources they needed,” Sasse said. “I thought a

Savitri Sasse

By Ally Morrison

Tashee Brown is a youth services coordinator with the Crisis Center in Birmingham and has worked with Altamont over the past few years, giving presentations to students.

resource fair with local organizations would be helpful.”

Focusing on Youth

Sasse said she asked Tashee Brown, a UAB grad student who has worked with teenagers over the years, to be the keynote speaker because of her experience.

“I picked Tashee because she has worked with teen mental health before and was also willing to talk about how COVID affected teen mental health,” Sasse said. “I thought she would be a good fit.”

Brown received her bachelor’s in

psychology and health education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she is now working on a master’s in medical/clinical social work. She is a youth services coordinator with the Crisis Center in Birmingham and has worked with Altamont over the past few years, giving presentations to students.

“My interest has always been working in mental health but more specifically focusing on youth mental health,” Brown said. “I experienced personal traumas growing up, so I know what it’s like to be in a crisis state and need support and access to

resources that might be outside of someone’s community.”

During her undergraduate studies, Brown volunteered with the Crisis Center’s Teen Link Line, which is now known as the UTalk Youth Line.

After moving through various roles, Brown ended up in her current position.

“As a youth services coordinator, I do a lot of prevention education and community outreach for kids, teens, youths and adolescents,” Brown said.

“I give presentations that correlate to adults working with youth or youth in crisis. I interview volunteers for the UTalk line and help them through training sessions.”

The Crisis Center services five counties in the greater Birmingham area.

Brown said the Teen Mental Health Fair is particularly important given changes during the pandemic.

“The pandemic has had a pretty

A Magic Moment

Deer Valley Student Surprised with Disney Trip During Pep Rally Carter Cullen, a Deer Valley Elementary School fourth grader, attended a pep rally at Hoover High School on Feb. 28, where he received the surprise of a lifetime.

When Carter was 3, he suffered a life-threatening medical emergency that doctors were unable to identify. After countless appointments, tests and hospital stays, Cater was diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening neurological condition that he continues to fight each day.

During Hoover City School’s Be Kind Week, Hoover High School students and employees raised more than $5,000 to benefit Magic Moments and, in turn, helped grant Carter’s wish of going to Disney World.

Carter, along with two other elementary students, attended the high school pep rally to judge Disney-themed dance routines put on by the students of Hoover High. Carter and the judges made their way to the center of the gym after the performances, where he learned he was the real winner.

After students announced in unison that he

Journal photos by Ally Morrison

By Ally Morrison

would soon be going to Disney World, an excited Carter threw his hands in the air.

Although his life has looked different than most children his age, he will get the chance to be a carefree kid for awhile during an allexpense-paid trip of a lifetime. Along with his parents and siblings, Carter will have access to all of the parks at Disney World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld and others.

Magic Moments is a wish-granting organization devoted to children in Alabama ages 4-18

diagnosed with chronic life-threatening illnesses.

In addition to granting wishes, the organization provides a support network to connect children and families in similar situations with each other.

huge effect on all of us as adults but also our kids and teens,” Brown said.

“They had their school and education taken away. Not only is it important to maintain education, hobbies and extracurricular activities, but for a lot of teens that were stuck at home, their sense of safety was taken away, also.”

“Everyone’s home life isn’t the perfect cookie-cutter life,” she continued. “Some people were trapped in family situations and that took a huge hit to their mental health. We know that vulnerable populations such as minority youth and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) youth were also drastically impacted by this as well. It’s important to talk a lot about what this pandemic has done and is doing to us and how it’s changed the way we view the world and how we see each other.”

During her presentation at the fair, Brown spoke about the effects COVID had on the population as a whole, but she focused primarily on the effects on the younger population. She educated students, faculty and parents on warning signs to look for that could indicate someone they know is experiencing a crisis. She provided insight into how to help and support peers and how adults can address and provide resources to youths.

Sasse said her main hope for the fair was that it would help end the stigma surrounding mental health.

“I hope people know that it’s OK to have mental health issues, but that it’s important to get help,” Sasse said.

“I feel like the fair was a way to find resources and places to go if someone needs it.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Leadership Vestavia Hills Presents Achievement Awards The 31st Annual Community Leadership Awards took place at Vestavia Country Club on Feb. 22, during which the Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Karen Odle, and Antoinette “Toni” Vines took home the Distinguished Citizen Award.

During her time as president of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, Odle has increased chapter members from 296 to 1,102 and has implemented various programs to better the city. She is retiring in May. (see related story on page 6) Vines is founder and president of Mercy Deliverance Ministries, which was established in an effort to break cycles of poverty with the delivery of fresh food, health care and education.

The event also celebrated the 25th anniversary of Leadership Vestavia Hills. It featured emcee John Henley and pianist Katherine McLean Taylor.

—Ally Morrison

Journal photos by Ally Morrison

A Salute to Community Pioneers

LIFE

The Vestavia Hills Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Karen Odle, left, and Antoinette “Toni” Vines, right, took home the Distinguished Citizen Award.

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 9

Among those attending the Community Leadership Awards Ceremony were, clockwise from above: Lori Moler, Will Connor, Katherine Gorham, Amanda Carmichael, Jay McFarland, Scott Stevens; Perry and Joy Shuttlesworth with Brenda Phillips; and Trish D’Anna, Tawanda Usher and Sandra Zarate.

10 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

A Community of Readers

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

O’Neal Library Raises $29K in Its Annual Book Sale

Emmie Stutts and Patricia Harper

Gwinnie Dorgan and Pam Kilgore

The O’Neal Library hosted its annual book sale Feb. 25-27, raising $29,000 to support the library’s teen and adult programs.

More than 20,000 books were put on display for the sale, all of which were donated throughout the year by members of the community or from the library’s collection.

The day before the event, a preview party was held for patrons who made a library donation of at least $25. The preview granted patrons first access to the library’s collection of art, coffee table books, first editions and rare titles.

Ginger Hopper, Emme and Kelsey Alvis and Alyce Keel

Annie Clark and Michael Jenson

Above, William Hutchings, Amanda Boyd and Norman Jetmundsen Left, Jeff Hansen and Kathy Britton

Sandra and Terry Oden

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Two Dawson Troop Members Earn Eagle Rank

Two young men from Dawson Church Troop 83 were named Eagle Scouts, the highest rank awarded in the Boy Scouts, in January. Corbin Mehrer and Riley Howerton both earned the rank.

Corbin Mehrer

Corbin began his scouting career as a kindergartener and earned the Arrow of Light as a Cub Scout.

Since joining Troop 83, Corbin has earned 31 merit badges and held numerous leadership positions, including chaplain, librarian and historian. He is a member of the Order of the Arrow and has earned the Triple Crown by participating in three highadventure trips.

For Corbin’s Eagle project, he installed six Corbin Mehrer bat houses at Camp McDowell. He raised the funds for the project and built the bat houses using a construction plan from the International Bat Association. He, along with family and fellow scouts, cut the bat houses from plywood.

Corbin then hosted an assembly day during which nearly a dozen scouts from multiple troops assembled the houses. During National Bat Week, Corbin and a small group of volunteers

PEOPLE installed the houses around Camp McDowell.

Camp McDowell is home to several species of bat, including some that are protected. These houses will help maintain the population and could increase the number of bats present at the camp.

Corbin is a senior at Vestavia Hills High School. He is a member of the VEX World Championship qualifying robotics team and plans to attend the University of Alabama in Huntsville in the fall.

His parents are Erin and Todd Hollifield and Michael Mehrer. Corbin and his family attend All Saints Episcopal Church.

Riley Howerton

Riley achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at Dawson Church Troop 83 in January. He is the fourth generation of his family to receive this honor.

Riley’s leadership roles in the troop included senior patrol leader, patrol leader, assistant patrol leader, historian and scribe. He has earned 25 merit badges along with the Riley Howerton God and Life medal. He also earned his Arrow of Light rank as a Cub Scout with Pack 1 at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church.

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 11

One of his many favorite memories is being named Top Shot at summer camp at Camp Comer.

For his Eagle Scout project, Riley designed and built a four-element low ropes course at Camp Dawson with the help of fellow scouts and adult leaders.

The four challenges are a spider web, boson chairs, traverse line and a 7-foot team wall.

Some existing trees were used to help the course blend into the environment. Careful planning and drilling were done to protect the health of the trees.

Yards of rope and wire cable were strung and clamped for three of the elements. Concrete was poured around timbers for the wall and spider web.

This course can be used for kids’ camps and team building and to help participants build confidence before taking on the camp’s high ropes course.

Riley is in his senior year as a homeschooler and member of Essential Church School. He is an active member of Dawson’s Chapel Choir and holds the officer position of tenor section leader.

Riley’s parents are Bill and Cindy Howerton. He and his family are active members at Dawson.

PLEASE SEND PEOPLE NEWS TO: EDITORIAL@OTMJ.COM

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

A Regal Affair Elizabeth DeBuys; Grace Shepard Hull with trainbearer Jean Louise Mayfield.

Princesses presented included Kathleen McKenney Beall, Katy Leigh Benck, Melanie McCaa Bradford, Emilie Anne Brown, Elizabeth Moore Bryant, Margaret Diane Bryant, Fredda Claire Caldwell, Virginia Frances Carney, Mary Mozelle Davis, 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, Elizabeth Ellis Henley, Joy Louise Holman, Mary Anastasia Hufham, Ruth Elaine Jolly, Susan Darby Keith, Elizabeth Lunden Leitner and Valerie Bennett Lightfoot.

Also presented were 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.

The king’s dukes included Walter McFarland Beale Jr., Arthur Philip Cook Jr., Harry Huey Gardner, Gerald Palfery Gillespy, Harold Henderson Goings, Henry Barnes Ray Jr., Thomas Atkinson Roberts Jr., and James Whitfield Waitzman Jr. The king’s trainbearers were Anne James Clay, Laura Thomas Clay, Stewart Campbell Clay, Laurie Price Ray, Margaret Leary Ray, Charles Sheppard Caldwell Whatley, James Oliver Wood and James Vann Worthen.

The queen’s guards were James Seldon Andrews, Schuyler Allen Bradley Baker III, Steven Conary Hydinger, George Herschel Law, Frank Hardy Phillips, Joseph Camp Pritchard, William Lawrence Reed and Thomas Julian Skinner IV. The queen’s trainbearers were Kathryn Pritchard Allen, Ann Evans Allen, Mary Matthews Cole, William Hutchins Cole IV, Louis Knox Cole, Charlotte Hayes Wahl and Thomas Hobbs Wahl.

Serving as pages for the festivities were Mary Carolyn Wittichen Anderson, Charlotte Ann Chambliss, Ann Hollis Clinton, Evelyn Palmer Davis, Emma-Kathryn Day, Catherine Jane Emanuelsen, Juliet Hamilton Girvin, Margaret Bibb Girvin, Caroline Moss Goodrich, Susannah Blythe Goodrich, Jane Briggs Harrell, Julianna Elizabeth Little, Riley Elizabeth Mears, Carolyn Hill Noble, Barbara Wallace Rich, Elizabeth-Anne Donald Robinson, Phoebe-Grey Crist Robinson, Jackson Monroe Robinson, Caroline Reid Samuels, Anne Louise Sullivan, Charles Bennett Sullivan, Sarah Frances Sullivan, Stephanie Ann Terrell and Sally Comer Worthen. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

From page one

Elizabeth and Bill Leitner

Krewe Ball King Thomas Atkinson Roberts with family members, from left, John Allen Roberts, Laura Clay, wife Laura Susan Roberts and Atkins Roberts

James Burkette and Isabelle DeBuys

Jesse Vogtle, Gerald Gillespy, Philip Cook and Henry Ray

John and Lucy Marks

John and Beatty Coleman with Melissa and Cobb Hagan

Charlotte Wahl and Steven Hydinger

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 13

Krewe Ball Queen Sarah Randall Hydinger, with from left, parents Elbridge Thornton Hydinger Jr., Laura Hydinger and brother Thorton Hydinger

Robbie Robertson, MaryFrances Robertson, Forsyth Adams and Richmond Adams

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Big Night Under the Big Top

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Glenwood Hosts Annual Fundraiser

Whitney Brown and Kirk Smith

Allison and Kip Tullos

Jacquelyn Drennen and Nadav Raviv

Nathaniel and Kylie Drummond

Patti Randolph and Holly Williams

Birmingham Museum of Art

Glenwood’s Junior Board hosted the annual Night Under the Big Top Gala on March 4 at Haven. The event honored Glenwood junior board President Lauren Hyde and party co-chairs Nadav Raviv and Jacquelyn Drennen.

Guests enjoyed an evening of live music from Outshine, casino games, a photo booth and a silent auction. DJ Mark AD facilitated the famous silent disco as guests danced the night away.

Proceeds from the event will benefit children with autism and other mental health concerns. ❖

Caroline Ousley, Carter Irmscher, Katherine Dodson and William Johnson

Sarah Stewart, Lisha Graham and Sissy King

SEASON OPENING See what’s new at the BMA for 2022! Join us at the ReFRAME, an immersive celebration with a fresh perspective, inspired by art and culture from around the world.

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Dinner and Diamonds

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation Raises Funds During Event The 16th Annual Dinner and Diamonds event, a fundraiser for the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation, took place Feb. 26 at Vestavia Country Club.

The event featured dinner, entertainment and live and silent auctions. All proceeds benefit the foundation.

The foundation was established to provide ongoing and dependable funding for critical academic extras such as professional development, technology and classroom enhancements. ❖

Tom and Melanie Hill

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Look for us around town as we roll up our sleeves and get to work, collaborating with local municipalities, businesses, community organizations and others to organize meaningful service opportunities. We invite our past, present and potential partners throughout the metro to join us as we commemorate our 100 years of impact.

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Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 17

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

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After two years of postponing the event due to COVID-19, guests in attendance took part in a silent auction, a live auction, live music and a seated dinner.

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ROAR the Cure Gala

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Guests Party to Benefit Cancer Research

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Radiation, Oncology Accelerated Research held its 11th annual ROAR the Cure Gala at The Club on March 5. Guests were treated to a reception, dinner and live auction.

This year’s gala honored Rick Bragg, a journalist and Pulitzer Prizewinning writer from Alabama. All proceeds from the event will benefit UAB’s radiation oncology department. Previous ROAR events have provided more than $2 million to support the UAB Department of Radiation Oncology. ❖

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Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Carol Powell, Debbie Visintainer, Carolyn Hogan, Nell Freeman, Cynthia Jones and Bettie Davenport

Kathy Tracy, PA Carmichael, Ashley Carmichael, Marsha Hire and Rebecca Wright

Welcoming Spring

Coronets Dance Club Gather at Luncheon Coronets Dance Club members gathered at Vestavia Country Club on Feb. 25 for their spring luncheon.

The luncheon included pecan-crusted chicken with Creole honey mustard sauce, green beans and wild rice. Table decorations were a cluster of bud vases with pink roses, eucalyptus and baby’s breath accompanied by pink linen napkins.

The luncheon was planned by Cathie Amos and Carol Powell.

Those in attendance were club President Edna Alderman, Cathie Amos, Linda Bachus, Nancy Becker, Redonda Broom, Cheree Carlton, Ashley Carmichael, P.A. Carmichael, Betty Davenport, Carolyn Delk, Nell Freeman, Linda Gooldrup, Cheryl Hardwick, Marsha Hire, Carolyn Hogan, Gloria Hudson, Cynthia Jones, Carol Powell, Katherine Tracy, Debbie Visintainer and Rebecca Wingett. ❖

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20 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘Culture of Excellence’ Birmingham Makes Its Mark on the James Beard Semifinalists List

By Donna Cornelius

The awards and foundation get their names from James Beard, dubbed the “dean of American cookery” by the New York Times.

During his career, Beard wrote 20 books, had the first TV cooking show in the United States, and was longtime friends with another culinary legend: Julia Child.

The James Beard Foundation was established shortly after his death in 1986. His former home, a townhouse in New York’s West

T

Coveted Awards

It’s no easy feat to earn a James Beard nomination.

“To have a concept is one thing,” said Roussel, a member of the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, a professional organization for women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality. “To execute that concept well is another. But to consistently offer exceptional food, wine and hospitality on a regular basis, day in and day out, is worthy of recognition and honor. Places like Johnny’s in Homewood, to be nominated for their level of hospitality, demonstrates that consistency. It comes with leadership, hiring the right people, training them and demonstrating a culture you

‘You have a fine dining restaurant, a ‘meat and three’ and a fine wines shop receiving nominations. The diversity you will find in Birmingham says it all.’

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

BILL STOEFFHAAS, CO-FOUNDER OF BIRMINGHAM RESTAURANT WEEK

Adam Evans of Automatic Seafood and Oysters in Lakeview, above, with wife and partner Suzanne Humphries Evans and Timothy Hontzas, right, of Johnny’s Restaurant in Homewood both were nominated for Best Chef: South. Johnny’s also is in the running for a Beard Outstanding Hospitality award.

want replicated with each and every person who walks through your front door. That kind of thing does not happen overnight.”

Stoeffhaas said Birmingham’s 2022 semifinalists are good representatives of their city.

“You have a fine dining restaurant, a ‘meat and three’ and a fine wines shop receiving nominations,” he said. “The diversity you will find in Birmingham says it all.”

Automatic Seafood was a Best New Restaurant finalist in 2020, but the awards were not presented that year or in 2021 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the restaurant industry and to give the program time to address concerns about a lack of diversity among the winners.

Hontzas was a Best Chef: South semifinalist in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Nominees in that category come from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Puerto Rico.

In the Hospitality category, Johnny’s will be up against 19 other restaurants, including Chef Katie Button’s Cúrate in Asheville, North Carolina. In another Alabama connection, Jonathan Pridgen, who grew up in Tuscaloosa, is Cúrate’s head of charcuterie.

Other Birmingham establishments have made their mark on the James Beard Awards in recent years. In 2018, Highlands Bar and Grill won the prestigious Outstanding Restaurant

courtesy

wo Birmingham area chefs, a restaurant and an innovative wine shop made the list of 2022 James Beard Awards semifinalists.

Adam Evans of Automatic Seafood and Oysters in Lakeview and Timothy Hontzas of Johnny’s Restaurant in Homewood both were nominated for Best Chef: South. Johnny’s also is in the running for a Beard Outstanding Hospitality award. Golden Age Wine in Mountain Brook is a semifinalist in the Outstanding Wine Program category.

But these establishments and chefs aren’t the only ones with cause to celebrate; a city’s overall food and hospitality profile can get a real boost from James Beard Foundation recognition.

“I think it indicates the level of excellence to be found in Birmingham’s restaurants,” said Bill Stoeffhaas, co-founder of Birmingham Restaurant Week and owner of Style Advertising, the organizer of BRW. “These aren’t the first James Beard awards earned by Birmingham chefs and restaurants. There’s a culture of excellence here that you won’t find in other cities.”

Birmingham’s Christiana Roussel, a food, travel and lifestyle writer, agrees that the city has reason to rejoice over the James Beard accolades.

“The old saw goes, it’s an honor to just be nominated,” said Roussel, who’s been published in Garden & Gun, Good Grit, Sporting Classics, Food & Wine, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Birmingham Home & Garden and other well-known media outlets. “And to be fair, that is true.

“The James Beard Foundation Awards are a tacit anointing of sorts; individuals with far greater palates and dining experience have decreed restaurants in our city as worthy of mentioning. That matters. Those nominations bring revenue in the form of new customers, new visitors to our city, which is a rising tide that lifts all boats.”

The James Beard Foundation announced its 2022 Restaurant and Chef Awards semifinalists Feb. 23. The five finalists in each category will be announced March 16 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Winners will be honored at an awards ceremony June 13 in Chicago.

prize and the restaurant’s popular Dolester Miles won Outstanding Pastry Chef. Highlands’ Frank Stitt won Best Chef: Southeast in 2001.

Chris Hastings of Birmingham’s Hot and Hot Fish Club won the Best Chef: South award in 2012. The Bright Star in Bessemer was chosen as an American Classic in 2010.

In fact, Alabama has a pretty impressive James Beard track record. According to the Small Business Trends website, the state has had 11 award recipients since 2000. That ties with South Carolina, home of food-centric Charleston, and North Carolina, which has about double the population of Alabama, and it outstrips neighboring Florida and Tennessee, with nine awards each, and Mississippi with five.

Village neighborhood, is now the foundation’s headquarters. The world’s best chefs are invited to cook more than 250 dinners a year in his tiny kitchen there.

The awards established in his honor are often called the “Oscars of the food world.”

Recipients receive bronze medallions etched with his image.

The foundation also has established an educational scholarship program to support aspiring students in multiple areas of food and culinary studies.

Roussel said she’s been known to seek out James Beard-nominated restaurants when she travels.

“These awards are akin to a stamp of approval from a whole cadre of folks who know great food,” she said. “As a local, I just eat at the places I enjoy. When those restaurants are nominated for – and win – a coveted JBFA, Birmingham as a whole wins, and we all celebrate. But while awards are great, it is important to remember that food here is personal and restaurants are relationship-based.

Those are what bring customers back again and again.”

Stoeffhaas said he’s been a Birmingham restaurant fanatic since he moved to the city in 1986.

“I helped launch Birmingham Restaurant Week in 2010, and it’s been an honor promoting and supporting our local restaurants and ensuring residents and visitors alike know the exceptional caliber of restaurants we have here in our city,” he said. “The word is out all over the country that Birmingham is one of the must-visit destinations for food fans across the nation.”

For a full list of the semifinalists, visit jamesbeard.org and click on the Pressroom tab.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 21

FOOD FOODIE NEWS

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Community Food Bank Hosts Inaugural Feast for Hope Gala

Members of Les Dames’ Birmingham chapter participating in the inaugural Feast for Hope Gala on March 5, included, above left, from left: Gia McCollister, Susan Swagler, Martha Johnston, Rachel West and Cheryl Slocum. Above right, LaCrista Hutchinson, Ashley McMakin, Alena Jen, Jen Guatro and Susan Gilphin.

The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama hosted its inaugural Feast for Hope Gala on March 5, in partnership with the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier.

The event featured creative cuisine from members of Les Dames’ Birmingham chapter, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the Food Bank’s warehouse, where the event took place.

The gala supports the Food Bank’s mission to not only feed neighbors facing food insecurity but also to collaborate to find solutions to end hunger in central Alabama.

Each dish was prepared by members of Les Dames, a diverse professional organization of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality whose mission is education, advocacy, mentoring and philanthropy.

“Les Dames is thrilled to be partnering with the Food Bank on this special event,” said Kathy G. Mezrano, President of Les Dames d‘Escoffier International Birmingham Chapter. “The Food Bank’s mission is close to all of our hearts, and having a part in supporting their work in

the community while also showcasing our organization and our members’ talents is truly our honor and privilege.”

The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama’s mission is to feed people in need today and foster collaborative solutions to end hunger tomorrow. Serving 12 counties across Central Alabama, it aims to ensure neighbors in need can access emergency food near where they live. The organization’s mission is made possible each day through the help of donors, volunteers, staff and more than 260 partner agencies.

Susan Swagler and Kathy G Mezrano

Rosalyn Bloomston, Mary Grace Viado, Audrey Panell and Donna Cornelius

Telia Johnson, Anne Cain, Kate Nicholson and Anna Theoktisto

Helen Restaurant Sets Dinner for Children’s Harbor

Ray Willingham, Susana Shuler, Mary Alice and Adam Kline and Dave Wood

recently snagged the #3 spot on Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America list.

All proceeds from the event will be donated directly to Children’s Harbor, which provides children with serious illnesses and their families a place to have fun and relax while receiving no-cost services that make life easier for the family.

Birmingham’s Helen Restaurant is hosting a spring dinner to benefit Children’s Harbor April 4 at 6 p.m.

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HOME

22 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPRING HOME BUYING AND SELLING

Journal file photo

493 Average sales price in 2021

470,932

$ Home Buyers Looking for Walkability and Shorter Drive Times in Current Real Estate Market

By Ally Morrison

A

nna-Marie Ellison is in the thick of the real estate market as president of the Birmingham Association of Realtors and managing partner for ERA King, a position from which she oversees all 10 offices in Central Alabama, Tuscaloosa and, most recently, Huntsville.

A native of Homewood, she fled immediately upon embarking on her college career. But after college, she returned to her home.

‘When the pandemic hit, people went from being awake in their homes for maybe 5 hours, to 16 hours. It made people reevaluate how they were spending their time at home.’

ANNA-MARIE ELLISON

“I spent so many years ready to move away from the city I grew up in,” Ellison said. “But I realized that I really love what makes Homewood Homewood.”

Ellison, who got her real estate license in 2006, shared trends she’s noticed lately in the local real estate market as she works with buyers to find their own special homes.

“Buyers are very interested in the walkability and proximity of potential neighborhoods,” Ellison said. “The ability to walk to restaurants, schools Why Use a Real Estate Agent? To Gain 10% and Lose a Lot of Stress PAGE 25

and entertainment has been huge. A lot of websites buyers visit now have a walkability score. They’re starting to rate houses based on proximity to amenities.”

Another trend Ellison has noticed, especially since the pandemic began, is that home buyers want less drive time.

According to Ellison, new technology has given real estate agents the ability to search for houses in a particular price range by the amount of time it takes to drive to specific locations that are important to the buyer.

“For someone who wants to live 10 to 15 minutes away from work, this has made a huge difference,” Ellison said. “How much time people spend in their car, until recently, has never been something that people prioritize in our area.”

In addition to proximity and drive time, Ellison explained buyers have most recently been conceding on the condition of properties because of the options in front of them.

“I see this as more of a short-term trend,” Ellison said. “It’s not necessarily because buyers’ desires are changing, but more so because of what is available right now.”

Ellison made some predictions for what the next few years of home buying and selling will look like based on pandemic repercussions and supply chain issues.

“Before the pandemic, most people spent a small amount of time awake in their homes,” Ellison said.

“When the pandemic hit, people went from being awake in their homes for maybe 5 hours, to 16 hours. It made people reevaluate how they were spending their time at home.”

“Additionally, the market is still suffering from inventory issues because of the recession in 2008.

Government overlays have created a See MARKET, page 27

Average sales price increase over 2020

1,599,000

Market Trends

5.25%

Highest sales price in 2021

10,820 Total number of households

25,680

Median days on the market

99.74%

List to sales price

Homewood by the Numbers Provenance

$

Anna-Marie Ellison serves as president of the Birmingham Association of Realtors and is managing partner for ERA King Real Estate.

Total number of residents

Stock

Anna-Marie Ellison

Total number of homes sold in 2021

3

People began moving into the area that later would become Homewood in the early 1800s, but it wasn’t until later that century that the population became significant.

The spur for growth was a major cholera epidemic in Birmingham in 1873. Fleeing contaminated conditions in the city, people began buying land on the outskirts and developing smaller communities. Several of those communities – Rosedale, Grove Park, Edgewood and Oak Grove – would later become the foundations of modern-day Homewood, according to an article on the city of Homewood’s website.

Edgewood in particular flourished during that period as an Electric Railway line opened in 1911 with streetcars running to downtown Birmingham. By 1915, the city had a man-made lake.

In 1926, local attorney Charles Rice started a movement to merge several communities, and the people of Rosedale, Edgewood and Grove Park voted later that year to incorporate under the name Homewood with Rice as their first mayor.

Hollywood, its own city at the time, was annexed into Homewood in 1929 and Oak Grove followed in 1955.

The 1930s were not kind to Homewood, as the Great Depression and a polio epidemic that sickened 80 children descended on the area, taking a toll on the city’s economy and social landscape. But the economy of Homewood and other cities in the area picked up as World War II brought a steel boom to Birmingham.

Homewood’s population increased by 75% from 1940 to 1950, according to the city’s website.

Homewood withstood several attempts to be annexed into Birmingham between 1959 and 1966. But the question finally was defeated in a 1966 referendum in which 65% of Homewood residents voted against the annexation.

In 1970, Homewood formed its own school system, breaking away from the Jefferson County school system.

—Virginia Martin

Sources: Greater Alabama MLS; US Census Bureau

Mountain Brook by the Numbers PAGE 24

Vestavia Hills by the Numbers PAGE 26

Hoover by the Numbers PAGE 28

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HOME

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 23

24 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

Tues.-Sat. 10-4:00 5620 Cahaba Valley Road

991-6887

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444 Total number of homes sold in 2021

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ARC Realty

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HOME

Average sales price in 2021

931,128

$

16.11%Celebrating 53 Years Average sales price increase over 2020 ESTABLISHED 1967

fine FABRICS for living

4,050,000

fine FABRICS for living

Highest sales price in 2021

2

Median days on the market

102%

List to sales price

Mountain Brook by the Numbers

Provenance

Mountain Brook began as a residential suburb developed in the 1920s by Robert Jemison Jr. The real estate developer had the idea to divide the land into estate-sized lots that would preserve the natuJournal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 ral surroundings and cluster around more densely devel6 oped commercial villages.

To: Henderson Draperies The result was Mountain Brook Estates. Jemison From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 sold shares in the estates and buyers picked lots on PROOF from the OVERFAX: THE 205-824-1246 MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the which to build their homes. Included among the restricDate: August or changes to 824-1246.

22 issue. Please fax approval tions Jemison imposed were the types of businesses This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the allowed, according to an article by Christopher Maloney August 26, 2021 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. on the Encyclopedia of Alabama website. He forbade make sure all information is correct, hospitals, auto garages, veterinary services and most ding address and phone number! businesses considered noisy or malodorous.

The streetcar network did not run to Mountain Brook 1820 Greensprings Highway 322-5878Estates, so residents had lease initial and fax back within 24 hours.Highway 322-5878 1820 Greensprings not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, www.kingcottonfabrics.com The streetcar to rely on automobiles, www.kingcottonfabrics.com your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. and the development Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. network did not was known for its wellhave not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, hank you for your promptIf we attention. run to Mountain your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. paved roads.

Jemison also planned Brook Estates, Thank you for your prompt attention. out recreation centers, so residents high-end retail shopping, schools and the had to rely on Mountain Brook Club. automobiles, and To: Janet One of the more noted From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 early amenities was the the development Mountain Brook Riding Date: Feb. was known for its Academy, which had a This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the May 31, 2018 issue. blacksmith shop and 60 well-paved roads. stalls, Maloney wrote.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address In the 1930s, the development suffered during the Great Depression, as did other communities around and phone number!

Birmingham. Some shareholders were forced to sell their shares. Lots went undeveloped, and homes were Total number of households boarded up.

If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Mountain Brook recovered during World War II as your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

Birmingham experienced a steel boom while provisionThank you for your prompt attention.

Total number ing the war machine. It was incorporated in 1942. of residents They city began with three villages – Mountain Brook Village, English Village and Crestline Village. It Sources: Greater Alabama MLS; US Census Bureau also now includes Cahaba Village and Overton Village, as well as several signature shopping and lifestyle developments.

Mountain Brook remains one of the wealthiest comNo supply chain issues here! munities in Alabama and, in fact, often is included on lists of the wealthiest communities in the country.

Just rooms and rooms of It is well known for its school system, which HANNA ANTIQUES includes four elementary schools, one junior high and a antiques, curiosities and fun!

MALL high school that consistently are ranked among the top in the state.

2424 7th Ave. So. • (205) 323-6036 • MON-SAT 10:00-5:00 —Virginia Martin

7, 284 22,461

Stock

$

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 25

HOME

Why Use a Real Estate Agent?

To Gain 10% and Lose a Lot of Stress, BAR Head Says

By Ally Morrison Birmingham Association of Realtors’ chief executive officer, Amanda Creel, has been in the real estate industry for nearly 8 years, but the path to her career was not exactly linear.

Originally from Mobile, Creel graduated from Auburn University with a degree in journalism in 2003.

She wrote for a newspaper in Georgia before moving to Florida and opening her own marketing and branding company. Eventually she accepted a position as a communications director for Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, where she learned about the real estate business.

“I really drank the Kool-Aid,” Creel said. “I fell in love with the fact that we do so much. We advocate, we educate and we try to make sure we have the best Realtors and practitioners out there. We give people the tools and resources that complement what their individual brokerages do to make a difference.”

Creel said the difference between using a real estate agent in a sale and not using one is about 10%, in cash, that is.

“The statistics speak for themselves,” Creel said. “The average person who does a for sale by owner is

‘The statistics speak for themselves. The average person who does a for sale by owner is going to get about 10% less in the end. Even with paying commission, you’re typically going to make more off that house with an agent.’

BIRMINGHAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS’ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, AMANDA CREEL

going to get about 10% less in the end. Even with paying commission, you’re typically going to make more off that house with an agent.”

Using a local real estate agent is just as important as shopping local, Creel said.

“We talk about investing local and buying local,” Creel said. “Using a local Realtor allows you to build a better community because our Realtors are going to take that money and invest it back into the same community you live in.”

Using a real estate agent can take down the stress level of the deal at the same time it increases the financial gain.

“For most people, one of the most stressful things they do is try to purchase a home or rental property. It’s the Realtor’s job to take care of the customer,” Creel said.

“For most people, buying a home and selling a home is their biggest wealth creator. Why wouldn’t you want an expert on their team when you’re talking about your future wealth?” Creel said. “To have a Realtor in your corner makes a lot of sense.”

After bouncing around the country, Creel now lives in Vestavia Hills with her husband and two sons, who attend Vestavia Hills City Schools.

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26 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Before

After

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Total number of homes sold in 2021

Average sales price in 2021

516,180

$

12.19%

3,775,000

Average sales price increase over 2020

13,082 Total number of households

39,102

Total number of residents

Sources: Greater Alabama MLS; US Census Bureau

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After

Median days on the market

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List to sales price

Vestavia Hills by the Numbers Provenance

$

Before

Highest sales price in 2021

3

The crest of Shades Mountain, which would become the starting point of a city called Vestavia Hills, was first developed as estates of wealthy Birmingham residents seeking asylum from the city.

Seeing the development possibilities for the area, banker Edgar Jones Smyer in 1916 built a road from Cahaba Road at the base of Shades Mountain to its top, eventually extending it to the Montgomery Highway and building his own country estate.

Former Birmingham Mayor George Battey Ward was among the first to build an estate on the mountain, in 1924. He named it Vestavia because it was modeled on the temple of the Roman goddess Vesta in Rome, After George according to an article

by Claire M. Wilson on Ward died in the Encyclopedia of 1940, developer Alabama website.

Charles Byrd On the land he also built a gazebo modeled bought the estate after the temple of the Roman goddess Sybil in and conceived Tivoli, a town east of of a planned Rome. community of After Ward died in 1940, developer Charles 1,000 homes Byrd bought the estate named Vestavia and conceived of a planned community of Hills atop the 1,000 homes named mountain.

Vestavia Hills atop the mountain.

The Temple of Sybil was moved in 1976 to land on the crest of Shades Mountain at the northernmost end of Vestavia Hills along U.S. 31, establishing it as the symbol of the city.

Eventually, Ward’s house was sold to Vestavia Hills Baptist Church, and a portion of the original structure now makes up part of the modern church, Wilson wrote.

Byrd began constructing his planned community in 1946, during the housing boom that followed World War II. He had strict covenants in place to ensure the continuing desirability of the community according to an article on Bhamwiki.

Vestavia Hills was incorporated as a city in 1950, and the city established its frequently lauded school system in 1970.

—Virginia Martin

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OTM home Sales by the Numbers

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 27

HOME

287

Roman BRantley

In 2021, there were 287 residential sales above $1 million in the Over the Mountain area, a 52% jump from 2020, according to data from the Greater Alabama MLS

Zillow

aRt, antiques, Gifts & DecoR

40

The number of homes sold in 2021 for more than $2,000,000+. There were seven homes sold for $3,000,000+ and two homes sold for $4,000,000+ in 2021

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To: From: Date:

5,357

Total number of homes sold in the OTM area in 2021

Linda Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 March This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the March 10, 2022 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

Sources: Greater Alabama MLS

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

MARKET

Thank you for your prompt attention.

From page 22

hindrance for new construction homes to get permits for building.”

Steering the Ship

Being president of the Birmingham Association of Realtors puts Ellison in a captain’s position when it comes to reacting to forces at work on agents.

“I help steer the ship,” Ellison said. “There’s a lot of outside pressure to remove the real estate agent from the center of the transaction. One of my responsibilities as president of the association is to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

While some home buyers and sellers have been trying to navigate the process on their own, Ellison said having a real estate agent involved can not only offer buyers and sellers with more choices but also smooth out the experience for both sides.

“It’s hard to run a team when you don’t have a quarterback,” Ellison said. “I think of the agent as that quarterback. They’re coordinating with everyone on the field to make sure that they cross the finish line and close on the house.”

Art by Frank Fleming

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28 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HOME

2,283

RealtySouth

Total number of homes sold in 2021

Average sales price in 2021

436,771

$

12.79%

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Total number of residents

Sources: Greater Alabama MLS; US Census Bureau

Stock

Decks, Bathrooms, Doors, Senior Modifications, Paint and Playgrounds

Median days on the market

101%

List to sales price

Hoover by the Numbers Provenance

$

IIIGUINIII

2,750,000

Average sales price increase over 2020

2

Hoover’s roots were first planted in the Bluff Park community then spread widely to form the city as it is today.

It began with William H. Hoover, who lived in Bluff Park and owned Employers Mutual Insurance of Alabama Inc. He began buying land along U.S. 31 in the early 1950s as the Alabama Highway Department began widening the road, eventually amassing 680 acres.

In 1956, he moved his company from Birmingham to the area, and he sold land there for his employees to settle on, William H. according to an article Hoover began

by Faye L. Doss published on the buying land along Encyclopedia of U.S. 31 in the Alabama website.

A Birmingham early 1950s as the Association of Home Alabama Highway Builders home tour in Department began 1959 sparked residential growth in the area. widening the A golf course soon followed, and a volunteer road, eventually fire department was amassing 680 established to serve the acres. community.

An attempt to form a city failed in 1964.

But on April 22, 1967, residents agreed to incorporate Hoover as an area four blocks long and one block wide with a population of slightly more than 400 residents, according to an article in Bhamwiki. A city hall was constructed two years later on land donated by William H. Hoover.

The city grew over the years as car ownership increased, allowing workers the option of living farther from their workplace. Birmingham’s industrial expansion also drove residents farther from the urban center.

Hoover’s early economy centered on retail, with the opening of the Hoover Mall in 1972. The city still is known today for its shopping, most notably the Galleria Mall.

—Virginia Martin

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Finley Committee Names 2022 Finley Character Award Winners The Finley Committee last month named its 2022 Finley Character Awards winners, recognizing Dr. Alice Turney, principal of Riverchase Elementary school, as the faculty winner; Rotimi Kukoyi as the senior winner from Hoover High; and Audrey Rothman as the senior winner from Spain Park High.

In nomination letters, Turney’s colleagues said her “superpower” was her commitment to making time for her students and parents. If there is a student in need, Turney ensures the student and their family have access to the resources that will address their needs, a nominee said.

Turney is praised in one nomination letter for ensuring her students had the materials they need, in school and at home, to be successful.

The awards were established as a tribute to the character of the late coach Bob Finley and as a way to recognize outstanding character from among the Hoover schools family.

Finley Committee members, Hoover City Schools leadDr. Alice Turney ers, Turney’s family and dozens of Riverchase students surprised Turney with the announcement Feb. 24.

“I’m completely overwhelmed and truly honored to be selected,” Turney said. “This is something that I was not expecting. I just hope to be a little part of the legacy of coach Finley and to help his legacy live on.

“There are so many others who deserve the Finley Award and who embody those characteristics of coach Finley, and they inspire me to be a better person every day. I’m thankful to be surrounded by such great people not just here at Riverchase Elementary School but in the entire Hoover community.”

Kukoyi of Hoover High

Kukoyi is ranked 11th in his class academically, scored a 36 on the ACT, and is known for volunteering his time to assist his peers in a variety of classroom activities.

In letters nominating him for a senior award Rotimi Kukoyi from his school, Kukoyi is described as an ambassador of goodwill, academic excellence and integrity. Kukoyi’s teachers said his leadership traits come to life through his role as a senior representative in

the Student Government Association.

He also has been named a youth ambassador for the Alabama Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or PanCan, because of his passion for bringing awareness to and fighting pancreatic cancer.

“Since I’ve been a student with Hoover City Schools, coach Finley is a name that was always brought up or mentioned,” Rotimi said. “I always heard about him being a man with amazing character and leadership skills and a lot of people looked up to him. His legacy lives through the Finley Awards, and I’m grateful and blessed to have been recognized as someone who honors his legacy and hope to continue that not only for myself but to inspire others to do the same.”

Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 29

SCHOOLS

Riley Early, Julia Gill and Mary Alex Maluff

Jamie Casey, Lizzy Gannon, Bella Nixon and Claire Morris

Rothman of Spain Park High

Senior winner Rothman is the most decorated volleyball player in Spain Park High School’s history, a two-time All-American and the 2021 Gatorade Player of the Year. She excels academically with a 4.28 GPA and a 31 ACT score.

Rothman is described as an outstanding young lady who possesses strong moral character and a desire to sucAudrey Rothman ceed academically and athletically.

“In her nomination letters, Rothman is described as an outstanding young lady who possesses strong moral character and a desire to succeed academically and athletically,” a statement from the Hoover schools state. “She has a quiet leadership and those leadership abilities shine through her role of captain of the Spain Park High girls’ volleyball team and she created a culture in the locker room and gym that is unbelievable. Rothman is considered a school ambassador and demonstrates great moral and ethical decisions in all that she does.”

Rothman spends time outside of school volunteering with several organizations, including the YMCA, King’s Home, the Church of the Highlands Serve Team and Habitat for Humanity.

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Super Fun Run

Ansley Hudson and Madora Pirtle

The Vestavia Hills High School football stadium was full of runners dressed as superheroes on March 5 for the RISE Superhero Fun Run. Runners in grades 1-5 were able to participate in the event, in addition to seeing some of their favorite superheroes.

This event was organized by Vestavia High School’s Rebel Impact through Service and Engagement (RISE), and benefits the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program at UAB.

Anne Lauren Ingram and Jack Talley

CORRECTION: In our Summer Camp guide in the Feb. 24 issue of OTMJ the phone number for Fresh Air Family’s Vulcan Gross Out Camp was incorrect. The number is 205-747-7410. Over the Mountain camp locations are Vulcan Park and Museum and McCallum Park in Vestavia Hills.

Photos courtesy Vestavia Hills High School softball

30 • Thursday, March 10, 2022

SPORTS

Miah Simmons

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Tait Davidson

First Year’s a Charm

By Rubin E. Grant John Simmons didn’t have any plans to leave Hayden High School.

He had been there 27 years, including 23 as the head softball coach. He had compiled a 659299 record and led the Wildcats to state championships in 2013 and 2019.

But last year, when he was contacted to see if he was interested in becoming Vestavia Hills’ head softball coach, Simmons decided to look into it.

“I turned in my resume and had a couple of interviews,” Simmons said. “I thought it was a good offer and would be a good place for me and my daughter, Miah, who’s a junior.”

Simmons was no stranger to Vestavia Hills.

He had served from 1992 to 1994 as the city’s field and gym supervisor while working for the Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Department.

So, he accepted the offer last summer, replacing Lissa Walker, the 2021 Over the Mountain Softball Coach of the Year, who took a job at Port St. Joe High School in Florida after leading the Rebels to their first state tournament berth since 2016. Walker had been the Rebels’ head coach

Kayla Franklin

New Vestavia Hills Softball Coach Likes Team’s Potential for 10 years, leading them to four state tournament appearances.

Vestavia Hills City Schools athletic director Myra Miles was thrilled to land Simmons.

“When we talked with other teams, coaches and administrators about coach Simmons, we kept hearing the same message: that he’s a great man, his teams are always prepared and play with grit, and he leads with class and respect,” Miles said.

The Rebels have gotten off to a solid start in Simmons’ first season, heading into this week with a 14-4 record. They reeled off five consecutive wins last weekend to reach the semifinals of the Wetumpka Tournament before losing 3-2 to Fairhope, the eventual champion. Vestavia Hills outscored its opponents 50-13 in the tournament.

Players With Potential

Simmons likes the make-up of his team.

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“I think we have got a lot of potential,” he said. “We’ve got four seniors, although one is out right now with an injury. They are showing great leadership.”

The Rebels’ seniors are third baseJohn Simmons was no man Libby Pippin, stranger to Vestavia catcher Caroline Redden, second base- Hills. He had served from 1992 to 1994 man Kylie Reid and Heaven Bibbs. Bibbs, as the city’s field and gym supervisor who usually plays third base, is sidelined while working for the Vestavia Hills Parks and indefinitely because Recreation Department. of an injury. “We’re still waiting to see when she comes back,” Simmons said.

Pippin, who played first base last season, has moved to third in Bibbs’ absence, although Pippin is left-handed.

“It’s a little unorthodox, but Libby is really good fielder,” Simmons said. “She’s already made some fantastic plays.”

Pippin also is batting .356.

Redden has battled injuries the past two seasons but takes over behind the plate for the graduated Gwynnie Hornibrook, who was a four-year starter. Simmons likes what Redden, who has signed with West Georgia, brings to the table.

“She bats third in our lineup because she consistently makes really good contact,” Simmons said. “She does a good job catching, handling our two pitchers who have totally different styles, and she’s already thrown out a few runners trying to steal.”

Reid returns as the second baseman and has shown improvement defensively and at the plate.

Libby Pippin

Junior Kayla Franklin, a three-sport athlete, is a standout at shortstop.

“She’s got great range,” Simmons said.

Franklin is batting lead-off because center fielder Lucy Spisto, a transfer from Spain Park, is sidelined with an injury. Franklin is batting .333 with 11 stolen bases.

“We’re definitely missing Lucy, but Kayla is doing a good job at lead-off,” Simmons said.

The Rebels also have twins Ella and Abby Gallaspy, who are juniors, in the starting lineup.

Ella Gallaspy is playing center field in Spisto’s absence and batting second, and Abby Gallaspy is playing right field and batting sixth.

Sophomore newcomer Laura Faith Beard is the starting left fielder.

Sophomore Tait Davidson and Miah Simmons are the Rebels’ primary pitchers. Davidson is 6-2 with a 0.76 earned-run average and Simmons is 7-1 with a 1.30 ERA. She also has a .419 batting average.

“Both of our pitchers are really good,” coach Simmons said. “I’ve known Tait for a long time because she has played on my travel ball team.

She’s got good velocity and speed on her rise ball. We’re developing her on working both sides of the plate.”

Miah Simmons is playing her fourth year of varsity ball after coming over with her dad from Hayden.

“Miah is a left-hander and she can spin it,” coach Simmons said. “She’s not overpowering, but she changes speeds and locates well.”

When not pitching, Davidson and Miah Simmons play first base.

Vestavia Hills plays in Class 7A, Area 6 with defending state champion Hewitt-Trussville, Spain Park and Oak Mountain.

Coach Simmons believes the Rebels have a chance to make another state tournament appearance.

“We’re hoping to go back,” he said. “We lost several seniors from last season, but I like what the players coming back bring to the table. I think we have a strong batting order. The (pitching) circle will be a key element because defensively we’re solid.”

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Thursday, March 10, 2022 • 31

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

HOOVER

six rebounds, five steals and five assists, and Kelly had 16 points, four assists and four steals.

Vestavia Hills rolled to a 78-58 win over Auburn (20-7) in their semifinal game. The Lady Rebels made 12 3-pointers and forced 29 turnovers. Ally Smith sank 5 of 9 3-point attempts to finish with 17 points, and Sarah Gordon made 3 of 8 3-pointers and scored 15 points. Emma Smith also had 15 points, Anna Towry 12 and Jill Gaylard nine.

From page 32

Pregame Chaos

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

“I’m really proud of these girls,” Vestavia Hills coach John David Smelser said. “They played as hard as they could. They just played an exceptional game and the biggest one of the season.”

Hard-Fought Game

Earning the championship trophy didn’t come easy for the Lady Bucs. Hoover led 17-16 at the end of first quarter and 33-27 at halftime. The Lady Bucs increased their advantage to 51-38 on Pooler’s basket on an assist from Hubbard with 2:35 remaining in the third.

The Lady Rebels clawed back, cutting Hoover’s lead to 55-49 at the end of the third and pulling within 55-52 on senior guard Emma Smith’s layup with 6:29 remaining in the final quarter.

But that was as close as the Lady Rebels would come. Kelly scored six consecutive points, including four free throws, to extend Hoover’s lead to 61-52 with 5:55 left. The Lady Bucs kept

From page 32

people’s expectations. I’m super, super proud.”

Enterprise (25-6) went on to capture the Class 7A crown, defending James Clemens 66-64 Saturday night in the finale of the AHSAA’s 100th State Basketball Championships.

Enterprise, which won its first state title, lost to Oak Mountain in the 2021 Class 7A championship game.

The Jaguars graduated eight seniors from their 2021 team that lost to Enterprise 57-56 in double overtime in the semifinals, so little was expected this season. But Harrington said he thought last summer the Jags had a shot to get back.

“With me and Big C (Turner) coming back to this team under coach Laatsch, who is an incredible coach and man, we knew we had to get the younger guys in the mix and up to the speed of the game,” Harrington said.

“I thought the leadership was important in the success of this team. We were able to show what it was like to have a goal and reach it. We fell short here, but we reached many goals.”

the Lady Rebels at bay the rest of the way.

“I think we played well, but whenever we got close, their two stars (Kelly and Hubbard) made plays,” Smelser said. “They went for 25 and 26.

They’re elite players.”

Emma Smith led Vestavia Hills with 19 hardearned points, 16 coming in the second half. She also had seven rebounds and three assists. Ally Smith and Sarah Gordon added 11 points each.

Emma and Ally Smith, who are twins, were

The Jags (27-8) started slowly against the Wildcats, falling behind 16-3, but rallied to close the deficit to 18-12 at the end of the quarter. They trailed 26-21 at halftime and pulled within 26-23 on Turner’s layup to start the third quarter. But the Wildcats finished the period on a 17-4 run and took a commanding 43-27 into the fourth quarter.

“Since December, we’ve had really good starts to games and today we didn’t,” Laatsch said. “To their credit, they came out and got after us. Our kids withstood it and came back but couldn’t quite get over the hump.

“I thought their physicality and aggressive play made it difficult for us to get started. We’ve been playing

in front most of the year. Today, we had to play from behind and that’s not who we are.”

Harrington led the Jags with 18 points and eight rebounds. Turner scored 17 points on 8 of 12 shooting and had nine rebounds and six blocked shots. Chase James added 10 points.

Elijah Terry had 19 points, eight rebounds and four assists to lead Enterprise. Kenneth Mitchell chipped in with 16 points.

Even though the Jags lost by a greater margin this year to the Wildcats, the pain was still palpable.

“They both hurt,” Turner said.

“We were wanting to make up for the loss last year, but we came up short.”

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The championship game was delayed because of multiple fights that began in the BJCC and moved outside, according to Birmingham police.

There were also reports of an active shooter leading to panic as people ran for cover, but there was no active shooter and authorities said there was no evidence of shots being fired either inside or outside of the arena.

Both teams were on the court warming up when the commotion began and scurried off the court.

“I’ve never seen anything like that,” Johnson said. “We were dialed in, but it was a scary moment. We were just ready to play. Nothing was going to keep us from being ready.

“I didn’t know what was happening, who was safe, who was not safe. I got separated from them, but we stayed focused and ready to play the game.”

Smelser also was confused about what was happening.

“I looked up and saw people ducking,” Smelser said. “My first reaction was to get my players to the locker room, so we did.

“I’m not making excuses, but it did kind of get us out of our rhythm. We already had a pregame speech. We were warming up and then we had to start over again. You don’t prepare for that.”

After order was restored, the teams returned to the court and were given additional time to warm-up before the game tipped off.

“I’m glad they extended the time,” Smelser said. “If we would have played in 10 minutes, we wouldn’t have been ready. I’m glad they pushed it back another 10, and we kind of got back in gear.”

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JAGUARS

Kelly led the Lady Bucs with 26 points, nine rebounds and four assists to earn MVP honors.

both named to the All-Tournament team. Emma Smith surpassed 2,000 career points in her final game. She doesn’t plan to play in college.

She fought back tears as she talked about the disheartening loss.

“I know we want to be in that other locker room, but I would never trade this team even if it meant we had won the whole thing,” Emma Smith said. “I’d rather be in the locker room with these same girls 100 times over. I’m just grateful we got a chance to play on this stage.”

Ally Smith said it was special playing with her sister and the rest of her teammates.

“It has been a blessing for me and Emma to play the last five years,” Ally Smith said. “When we were in the eighth grade it was so hard to form relationships with the older girls. So we have made it our mission to form those relationships now with younger girls. This team will be back. It was an amazing senior season and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Hoover advanced to the championship game with a 91-54 victory against Davidson (31-3) in the semifinals. The Lady Bucs had 14 players crack the scoring column with Hubbard leading the way with 23 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. Junior Layla Etchison added 22 points,

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Rebels won their only state championship in 1987.

“I’m really proud of these girls,” Vestavia Hills coach John David Smelser said. “They played as hard as they could. They just played an exceptional game and the biggest one of the season.

“What a game. The two best teams in 7A going at it toe-to-toe. A lot of scoring. A lot of fight from both teams.”

Kelly led the Lady Bucs with 26 points, sinking 14 of 17 free-throw attempts. She also had nine rebounds and four assists to earn MVP honors.

Senior swingman Aniya Hubbard added 25 points, making 9 of 15 field-goal attempts, including 4 of 5 three-pointers, and was named to the All-Tournament team, as was teammate Alana Pooler.

Hubbard suffered knee injuries each of the past two seasons but returned from both to help Hoover win titles.

“This is my last year and I wanted to go out on top,” said Hubbard, who is headed to Florida Atlantic to play collegiately. “I can’t express how good this feels. My teammates put so much trust in me. This trophy, we all deserve it after all we’ve been through.”

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First Year’s a Charm: New Vestavia Hills Softball Coach Likes Team’s Potential PAGE 30

SPORTS Thursday, March 10, 2022 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Look for 2022 OTMJ All OTM Basketball teams in our March 24 issue

Hoover’s Kristen McMillan goes to the basket against Vestavia Hills’ Sarah Gordon in the Class 7A championship at the BJCC Legacy Arena Saturday.

Emotional Ending

Spain Park Surpassed Expectations Despite Semifinal Loss in State Basketball Tournament

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

By Rubin E. Grant

REPEAT, REPEAT

Spain Park boys basketball coach Chris Laatsch couldn’t control his emotions following the Jaguars’ disheartening loss in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A semifinals.

During the postgame news conference, he glanced to his right at seniors Colin Turner and Josh Harrington and choked up. He apologized, but there wasn’t any need to.

Turner and Harrington had carried a young Spain Park team back to the Final Four, but their bid for the school’s first state championship ended with a 73-58 loss to the Enterprise Wildcats last Thursday at the BJCC Legacy Arena in Birmingham.

“I don’t know how many people thought we could have gotten back here, but the kids did,” Laatsch said. “A lot of the credit goes to these two guys (Turner and Harrington) and their leadership. These two guys mean so much to me.”

He paused as tears welled up in eyes.

“I will say these two guys can’t lead if the others aren’t willing to follow and they did,” Laatsch continued. “They’ve surpassed a lot of See JAGUARS, page 31

By Rubin E. Grant

R

eniya Kelly clutched the basketball in her left arm as she made an emotional dash up the court.

Her facial expression had the look of someone who finally had accomplished something they had been trying to do for some time.

Hoover’s 5-foot-7 junior guard had gotten fouled in the backcourt with nine seconds remaining in the girls Class 7A championship game against rival Vestavia Hills and rushed toward the free-throw line, knowing the Lady Bucs had secured the state title for the second consecutive year.

Kelly sank the first of the two free-throw attempts and missed the second, but it didn’t matter. The No. 1 Lady Bucs (34-3) had done what they came to do, beating the No. 2 Vestavia Hills Lady Rebels 73-64 Saturday at the BJCC Legacy Arena in the AHSAA 100th State Basketball Championships.

The theme all season long for the Lady Bucs had been: “Run It Back.”

“Back-to-back, that’s a whole new level,” Kelly said. “It means a lot to the team and the

‘Back-to-back, that’s a whole new level. It means a lot to the team and the Hoover legacy and we’re just trying to keep it going.’

RENIYA KELLY, HOOVER JUNIOR GUARD

Hoover legacy and we’re just trying to keep it going.”

Hoover was making its fourth consecutive appearance in the championship game, winning titles in 2019 and 2021, but finishing as runnersup in 2020 to crosstown rival Spain Park. The Lady Bucs also won the 2017 Class 7A title in Krystle Johnson’s first season as head coach at her alma mater but hadn’t won consecutive titles since 2012 and 2013.

“The pattern was win, lose, win, lose,” Johnson said. “They broke that pattern. We got the monkey off our back.”

Johnson became very emotional as she continued to speak with tears in her eyes.

“God is good,” she said. “Not everyone knows what this team went through this season.

Everything we’ve been through makes it all worth it. We’ve had three ACL surgeries, people left, the schedule was hard. To get to this moment is a blessing. I cry every time we win, but this one is different. These players played through adversity.”

Vestavia Hills (33-3) was making its fourth overall title-game appearance, the last coming in a 1997 loss to Butler of Huntsville. The Lady

See HOOVER, page 31

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Lady Bucs Claim State Basketball Title for Second Consecutive Season

Josh Harrington scores two of his 18 points in Spain Park’s Class 7A semifinals loss to Enterprise.