Celebrating the communities of Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County
ANTIQUES AT THE GARDENS!
OPINION
IN THIS ISSUE
| The J’La Gala 10 | Cahaba Heights Bargain Days and Cocktail Crawl
10 | Unbound Grace Ministries
11 | Fairy Tale Ball
GIVING TREE
12 | Bestselling author Sophie Hudson to help launch Legacy League’s 100th anniversary year.
13 | Junior League Teen Leadership Board presents Skylar with trip to Disney World.
13 | Red Mountain Garden Club SPOTLIGHT
14 | Bright Lights in the Big City: Grace Davis and Best Buddies PROFILE
16 | Mountain Brook resident Cissy Jackson swims Lake Rabun.
& CULTURE
20 | Greg and Michelle Suess bring Hollywood roots and humanitarian spirit to Mountain Brook.
24 | Antiques at the Gardens draws top design talent from across the country— including Schumacher’s Dara Caponigro.
ABOUT TOWN
32 | Things to do, people to see, music to hear SPORTS
35 | Homewood launches big-time sports broadcast experience.
36 | Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills reload for 2025 volleyball season.
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Publisher & Executive Editor: Lee Hurley
Editor: Barry Wise Smith
Design Director: Claire Cormany
Photography: Jordan Wald
Contributors: Tally Dettling, Madoline
Markham Koonce, Loyd McIntosh, Sarah Owen, Anne Ruisi, Rebecca Wilbert
Account Executive: Julie Trammell Edwards
We would love to hear from you on any subject: lhurley@otmj.com
“It
takes courage to be kind.”
—MAYA ANGELOU
n the sports section of this issue, our Sports Editor Loyd McIntosh introduces Homewood High School’s new assistant athletic director John Lunceford, a Homewood High School graduate, and the new sports broadcast team (page 35). This is an exciting addition for HHS, but it comes with a tinge of sadness. In June, Homewood High School was devastated by the loss of longtime PA announcer (deemed “the voice of Homewood Athletics”) and Media Center stalwart Brad Keim. Mr. Keim poured into the students, faculty and school and was always kind even when no one was looking, maybe especially when no one was looking. His co-worker Debbie Chancellor says, “Brad was the ultimate teammate. His love for the kids, serving others, 80’s rock, Auburn and all things Homewood, is a lasting reminder on how to live your life. You can’t replace a guy like Brad—you can only emulate the legacy he left behind.” Homewood’s Athletic Director Rick Baguley agrees, “Brad Keim was one of the most kind and sincere people I have ever met. Brad made a huge impact at Homewood High School and was quick to share his favorite line ‘once a Patriot, always a Patriot’ as he welcomed and honored current and former students, players, faculty and staff.”
Mr. Keim was also a talented artist who drew pencil portraits of Homewood athletes who were recognized as first-team all-state players, and he created personalized banners for every athlete who signed to play their sport in college. My son Hardy has his (pictured left) from when he signed to play soccer at Rhodes College in spring 2021. Each banner had images from the athlete’s chosen school and the school’s logo. My husband fussed at me for keeping it in the closet, but I am so glad that I have it as it’s a physical representation of the kindness that Brad Keim showed to my son and so many others.
And speaking of kindness, read Sarah Owen’s fantastic story about Mountain Brook residents and film folk Greg and Michelle Suess who are part of the award-winning documentary called Case for Kindness (page 20).
As Maya Angelou said, “It takes courage to be kind.” Let us all be as courageous as Brad Keim, so that when we’re gone people will say, “____” was the kindest person I knew.” May it be so.
–BARRY WISE SMITH
Fairy Tale Ball attendees Ashley and Rayleigh Evans.
Hope Gala honorees and chairs Lauren DeMoss, Tricia Kirk, Jim Proctor, Lynn Ritchie and Neillie and Tom Butler.
Kyle, Hardy and Barry Smith on Hardy’s signing day with Rhodes poster created by Brad Keim.
On August 23, the Country Club of Birmingham was transformed into a dazzling backdrop for the 45th annual Hope Gala presented by Medical Properties Trust and RxBenefits. Neillie and Tom Butler chaired the black-tie evening honoring Lauren DeMoss, Tricia Kirk, Jim Proctor and Lynn Ritchie for their brave fights against cancer.
Guests arrived in elegant style for a cocktail reception, followed by a gourmet dinner and a spirited live auction. The celebration continued late into the night with an afterparty featuring The Park Band, handcrafted cocktails and late-night bites.
The Hope Gala was not only a highlight of Birmingham’s social calendar but also a meaningful evening of purpose, raising vital support for the American Cancer Society’s mission to fund groundbreaking research, advance prevention efforts and provide services for those facing cancer. OTMJ
THE HOPE GALA
When two leading healthcare systems come together, extraordinary things happen. As Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital — now strengthened by award-winning healthcare leader Orlando Health — we are bringing you expert medical care with the patient-first approach you deserve. With an even brighter future ahead, we’re excited to enhance exceptional, faith-based care in your community. Giving you more reasons to choose well. BaptistHealthAL.com/BrookwoodHospital
Will Sasser, Doug McCrary, Caroline Sasser, Lisa McCrary, Lauren and Jordan DeMoss and Jessica and Ashley Wright
Rene Price, Jeff and Suzanne Wright, Julianne and Kevin Hanna
Elizabeth Jernigan, Ella Jernigan Parker with her winning bid and Mary Margaret Gullage
Neillie and Tom Butler—2025 Hope Gala chairs
Lauren DeMoss, Tricia Kirk, Jim Proctor, Lynn Ritchie and Neillie and Tom Butler— Hope Gala honorees and chairs JD and Kate Lloyd, Jane and Daniel Drennen
SIDEWALK FILM FESTIVAL
The streets of downtown Birmingham’s Theatre District were electric with excitement for the 27 th annual Sidewalk Film Festival, held Aug. 18-24. A celebration of independent films, Sidewalk featured screenings of more than 200 films throughout the week. Local award-winning filmmaker, Melanie Jeffcoat, held the world premiere of her latest film Lockdown—inspired by Jeffcoat’s experience with a school shooting decades ago and her desire to kickstart the hard conversations around the epidemic of gun violence in American schools—on August 23. Other activities included filmmaker Q & A sessions, panels, workshops, networking events and parties. OTMJ
Nick Davis, Anna Grace White, Cliff Beach and Kate Edmonds
Ime Etuk and Fatima and Marquis Dupree
Rin Glover and Jada Tubbs
John Hedrick and Patrick Smith
David and Paula Renzi-Callaghan and Pamela Colen
Angela Van Tassel and Lee Reneau
Mike, Heather and Katie Miller
Cherrie McRae, Melanie Jeffcoat, Jace DeLoach and Hannah Riley
The J’La Gala
Aconvivial cocktail hour with an open bar and live music, chef-prepared gourmet kosher meal and silent and live auctions were featured at the 4th annual J’La Gala on Aug. 21. The event, held at the Levite Jewish Community Center, also included guests playing “Ring Bling” as they vied for a $4,000 Avani Rupa diamond ring. The J’La Gala benefits the LJCC’s scholarship program for children and adults. OTMJ
Steve and Lana Royal and Robin, Mason and Hilton Berger
Ginger and Jerry Held
Terry and Ellen Bernstein
Jeffrey Spielberger, Sharon Bass, Linda Barstein and Savannah Koplon
Letty Marcus and Caryn Corenblum
Emma Herr, Bert and Toby Siegel
Ortal and Matan Klinger
Florina Newcomb, Amy and Michael Saag and Isa Dorsky
Cahaba Heights Bargain Days and Cocktail Crawl
Shoppers had a field day at Cahaba Heights Bargain Days Aug. 22-23, with a variety of deals up to 90 percent off at their favorite businesses in the Heights Village. Participants at the Cocktail Crawl (only for those 21 and older) on the afternoon of Aug. 23 sipped cocktails and mocktails in the Cahaba Heights Entertainment District as they stopped in at area restaurants and shopped for bargains. OTMJ
UNBOUND GRACE MINISTRIES
and
Heidi,
On Thursday, August 21st, the Unbound Grace Ministry hosted their annual fundraising dinner at The Barn at Shady Lane. “Unbound Grace is a Christ-centered addiction recovery ministry. We are different from other addiction recovery organizations because we focus on helping our clients find relationship with Jesus in addition to sobriety. We do this through counseling, discipleship, and community outreach,” explains Tyler Harris, Director of Outreach and a Pastoral Counselor for the UBG Ministry. Guests enjoyed a buffet meal prepared by the Happy Catering Company and late summer blooms in hues of blues and whites created by Meredith Nix. John Steakly—founder, CEO, Pastoral Counselor for UBG, and author—also had his books, Unbound Grace and Rhythms of Recovery, available for purchase as an additional fundraiser for the organization. OTMJ
Jennifer Raudevaugh, Muffin, Hammy and Holly Edmondson
Austin, Andy, Meredith and Campbell Nix
Mailon McLeroy, Maci and Elizabeth Dye
Joe and Margaret Irby, Virginia (Associate Counselor) and Thomas Ward
Riley Ann and Mason Barnhill and Sawyer Boyd
Victor and Mary Hanson, Cameron and Lauren Cole, Megan and Colton Houston, Meg and Clay Wilson, Margaret Cobbs and Fran Nichols
Lauren (Ministry Coordinator) and Logan Middlebrooks and their family
Diane
Randy Pigg, Grady and Meg Trammel, Chandler and Zach Cotton and Adam “Bully” Shields
Evie and Jackson King
Bennett, Trevor and Lauren Shaw, Alan and Jessica Dobbins, Catherine and Russ Eiland and Whitney Reidinger
Maci and Dustin Dye
Chesley and Richard Kalehoff, Brenda and David Harris, Tyler Harris, Margaret Dodson and Josh Butler
John, Kate and Elizabeth Ann Steakley
FAIRY TALE BALL
Fairy tale characters and superheroes greeted guests of all ages at the 19th annual Fairy Tale Ball on Aug. 23 at Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge. The magical evening is a beloved event that benefits Childcare Resources, which provides early education opportunities and services for children and their families in Central Alabama. Guests, some in costumes inspired by their favorite characters, enjoyed interacting with their heroes, dancing and bidding on items in the silent auction. OTMJ
Stella Syrowatka, Kristin Beauchamp, Emmie Roop and Sunny Simpson
Gracie Dawson, Nicole Bazzell, Charles and Emily Dawson
Tate Drew, Emily Reed, Brittany Loebler and Chandler Cox
Jeff, Elliot and Kelly Harris
Kendall and Ashley Paisley
Ashley and Rayleigh Evans
Mila and Becky Reese
Gianna Priola, Maria Barry and Margaret Cotney
JUNIOR LEAGUE TEEN LEADERSHIP BOARD PRESENTS SKYLAR WITH TRIP TO DISNEY WORLD.
The Junior League of Birmingham’s newly created Teen Leadership Board presented a Magic Moment to Skylar, a four-yearold girl who has had cancer, at the Junior League Building. The Board raised the funds to present Skylar and her family with a trip to Disney World! Skylar has always dreamed of going to Disney World and meeting all the princesses, and the Board was thrilled to be able to send Skylar and her family. The surprise being the day before she left made it even more special.
The Junior League of Birmingham’s Teen Leadership Board consists of high school young women in our community who have volunteered to serve a one-year term. This group was founded by Julia Costanzo, a senior at Mountain Brook High School who is serving as the group’s Chair and Elizabeth Haver, a
junior at Mountain Brook High School who is serving as the group’s Co-Chair. Other members include:
Gracie Everly
Mary Carlon Feagin
Clarke Gillespy
Palmer Heilbron
Eleanor Lassiter
Mary Harbin Porter
Adeline Rice
Camilla Riddle
Frances Scott
Maggie Simmons
The focus of the Teen Leadership Board is to inspire a culture of volunteer action and leadership in young women in our community, with the hope that one day they will become active Junior League of Birmingham members. OTMJ
CPA Glenn Till, Jr. Celebrates 50 Years of Service and Counting
The CPA firm of Till Hester Eyer & Brown is proud to announce and celebrate a remarkable milestone in the career of one of its partners. Glenn F. Till, Jr. is marking his 50th year in the accounting profession, having started with the firm in 1975 as a staff accountant. Today, he serves as the managing partner and remains a respected leader both within the firm and the broader professional community.
Over the course of five decades, Till has become widely known for his deep expertise in general accounting, audit services, and tax work, with extensive experience in both business and individual tax preparation—including estates and trusts. His background spans a wide variety of industries, including real estate, construction, wholesale and retail sales and the service industry. His contributions to the accounting profession and dedication to client service have earned him the respect of colleagues, clients, and peers alike. “Glenn has been our family accountant for 40+ years,” says Homewood Publisher and Commercial Real Estate investor Michael Whitten. “He fully understands tax law and we trust
Glenn with every aspect of our finances; personal, business, trust and estate.”
“For 50 years, Glenn has set the standard for integrity, professionalism, and excellence in accounting,” says Partner Marty Brown. “His commitment to his clients and his team has shaped our firm and inspired generations of professionals.”
Despite half a century of service, Till shows no signs of slowing down. “I still enjoy coming to work every day,” he says. “It’s been an honor to work with so many great people over the years—both clients and colleagues. I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I’m looking forward to what’s still ahead.”
Till Hester Eyer & Brown is a full-service CPA firm providing audit, tax, and advisory services to individuals, families, and businesses across a wide range of industries. With a commitment to excellence, client service, and professional integrity, the firm has built a reputation for trusted financial guidance for 62 years.
Reach out: contact@thebcpa.com or 205.871.9855
from left: Junior League teen board members, Mary Carlon Feagin, Mary Harbin Porter, Gracie Everly, Elizabeth Haver, Julia Costanzo, Adeline Rice, Frances Scott, Maggie Simmons and Skylar!!
SPOTLIGHT
would be a good pair. That was about two weeks prior to Abbie becoming Miss America. What kinds of things have you and your Best Buddy done throughout the year?
Grace: We hang out with our buddy at different events...like dinners or going to get dessert and outings—including playing bingo at the Local with other Best Buddy Citizens’ participants. I also got to sit with Abbie at the Champions Gala last year, as well as go see her compete in the Miss America Pageant in Orlando last summer.
How has Abbie encouraged or inspired Grace as her Big Buddy and now as Miss America?
Bright Lights in the Big City
Grace Davis and Best Buddies
BY TALLY DETTLING
Grace Davis—a life-long Vestavia Hills resident, employee at both Gigi’s and The Pants Store and Auburn Eagles graduate—has always been known for her love of style and bringing joy to others. After being asked to participate in the Best Buddies program in November 2024, Grace couldn’t have predicted the opportunities that awaited her. From her pairing as Abbie Stockard’s
Best Buddy for the year, to watching Abbie crowned Miss America 2025 and finally an invitation to appear in a Sephora and Best Buddies collab, it has been an exciting, jetsetting end to summer for the recent Auburn University grad. On August 17, Davis got to share her beautiful smile with the world on a Times Square billboard in New York City, as part of National Nonprofit Day. I recently sat down with Davis and her mom, Laura, to hear
about her once-in-a-lifetime experience.
OTMJ: Tell us a little bit about Best Buddies and how you first became involved with the organization?
Laura: Last year, Abbie Stockard was invited to be a candidate for the 2024 “Champion of the Year” at the annual Best Buddies fundraising gala. Because of their friendship in high school, the organizers of the Best Buddies Citizens program felt that Grace and Abbie
Laura: One thing I’ve always wanted for Grace, was to help her get into public speaking. We were invited to surprise Abbie at the annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference in Indianapolis this summer. Abbie was up on stage giving her speech to an audience of 2,000 plus guests, and then they surprised her with a video that had Grace telling her how thankful she was to have her as her buddy and best friend and how she wished she could be there. At the end of the video, Grace walked out on stage and surprised Abbie. Then, Grace got to speak and began talking about how much Abbie’s friendship meant to her… in front of 2,000 people! I was so amazed! She was so poised. One of my goals would be for her to have more opportunities like that across the country.
left: Grace Davis standing in front of the Times Square Sephora store underneath her billboard.
below: Miss America 2025 Abbie Stockard with Grace.
Best Buddies is an international organization with a focus on creating true friendships between those with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities.
What is one of your favorite memories from being a part of Best Buddies?
Laura: My mom passed in 2023. One of our favorite things to do together was watch the Miss America program on TV every year. To know Abbie personally and be able to attend the live pageant and ultimately see her win, it truly was one of the most special experiences I’ve ever had with Grace.
Grace: We had tickets for the last night of the competition and were so excited when Abbie made it into the Top 11! We kept saying “she’s got to win! She’s so good!” and then she did.
After it was over, we got to go to the after party. Abbie gave me a shout out! During her speech she said, “Fun fact, my Best Buddy is
ALL ABOUT BEST BUDDIES
Best Buddies is an international 501(c)(3) organization with a focus on creating true friendships between those with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. In Alabama, there are two of Best Buddies’ five national mission pillars: One-to-One Friendship and Leadership Development. Within these program pillars, Best Buddies makes an impact in the local elementary, middle, high school, college and adulthood seasons, creating a more disabilityinclusive community for all ages. Friendship chapters pair students with a disability in a peer-to-peer friendship with someone with no disability. These programs foster inclusion, build confidence and create lasting friendships that extend beyond school and into the community. Our Leadership programs train and support our student chapter leaders and local ambassadors, allowing them to grow in their leadership skills, public speaking, professionalism and more. Together, these programs empower individuals with IDD as leaders and advocates while positively impacting all community members, fostering greater disability inclusion across schools, workplaces, and communities throughout Alabama.
For more information about Best Buddies and more specifically, the Citizens Program and Champion of the Year gala, please visit: bestbuddies.org/ alabama/volunteer/.
here!” Also, seeing my face up on a big billboard! That was another great memory! So yes, the billboard…you were part of a huge Sephora campaign in Times Square recently—how were you selected for this opportunity?
Laura: I got a call from Grace Anne Maughan, Director of Mission Advancement for Best Buddies in Alabama. She said, “I know it’s last minute, but one of our senior directors who works with our national partners reached out thinking Grace would be a perfect fit for an upcoming opportunity. Can you make it to New York?” This was just two weeks after we’d been in Indianapolis so a bit of a whirlwind, but I’m so glad we were able to work it out to be there.
What was the most memorable part of your NYC trip?
Grace: My favorite part was seeing myself on a billboard in Times Square and getting to see my AOPi sorority sisters, Madeline and my Big Sis Ryan. It was amazing! We took lots of pics in front of the billboard! We also went to lunch at Stardust Diner. I got to go shopping at Zara…one of my favorite stores, and we got yummy gluten-free cookies at Culture Espresso. I also got to hang out with my Big Sis Ryan at her apartment and watch a movie.
How has being involved with Best Buddies shaped your friendships, confidence and opportunities?
Grace: Best Buddies means being seen, celebrated and surrounded by real friends that love me for exactly who I am. It’s been a great place for me to make new friends and helped me adjust to being back home in Birmingham. I’ve missed my friends from Auburn.
Laura: Grace has some big goals, and Best Buddies is helping her have the confidence and independence she needs to accomplish those goals. We hope she’ll one day get to live in her own apartment with roommates, continue with public speaking and if you ask Grace—eventually get married! OTMJ
Auburn University AOPi sorority sisters met up with Grace during her visit to NYC.
PROFILE
Just as the sun was beginning to rise, a small crowd of family and friends gathered on a bridge overlooking Lake Rabun in northeast Georgia. They came to see Mountain Brook resident Cissy Jackson as she geared up to swim the length of Rabun, from one dam to the other, an over eight-mile journey which took five hours and 40 minutes.
Jackson’s husband Steve was alongside her in a green canoe that carried the necessities like peanut butter and bananas. It was a misty silent morning as she entered the water in her black bathing suit and hot pink swim cap with matching pink swim buoy. It wasn’t raining, but not sunny either; Jackson later described it as a “beautiful morning.” After walking the shallow edge by Seed Dam, Jackson embarked at 6:48 a.m. on her long swim, first with breaststroke and then freestyle.
Jackson and her family have long spent summers at Rabun, a scenic lake in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In 1950, her grandfather leased a strip of land from Georgia Power where the family has since built homes and cabins. When she was a little girl, she would swim alongside the boat to a little beach where the family picnicked and built sandcastles. “I was always a swimmer,” she says.
Jackson grew up competitively swimming and returned to the sport when she joined a Masters Swim group in Birmingham. After being convinced to race in a relay, she decided to enter a couple other races as well and ended up qualifying for the U.S. Masters Swimming Nationals. This sparked her love for swimming once again. She also ran a few marathons along the way, including the Mercedes Marathon, but that’s another story.
Thinking about how to celebrate her 60th birthday, Jackson was inspired by the Lake Rabun Yakkers, a group of ladies who annually kayak dam to dam. With her connection to the lake, love of swimming and inspiration from the Yakkers, the idea to celebrate her birthday with a swim blossomed. She had thought of other places to swim, including the English Channel or to Alcatraz, but nothing else felt as right. “This water, I’ll drink it,” Jackson says,
That Dam Swim
BY REBECCA WILBERT
above: Jackson discussing the upcoming swim with writer Rebecca Wilbert.
PHOTO BY JOHN CALHOUN
left: Jackson at the finish line.
PHOTO BY STEVE JACKSON
“There’s just something about being by yourself looking down in the green water. It’s just a very pleasant place for me.” –cissy jackson
while sitting at her family’s boathouse the day before her swim. “I’m just comfortable in it. It feels like my own skin.”
Jackson’s longest previous swim at the lake was five and a half miles. Though she also trained in a pool, she prefers swimming in the lake. “There’s just something about being by yourself looking down in the green water,” she says. “It’s just a very pleasant place for me.”
Jackson also spoke about her struggles with shoulder pain and how that had sometimes affected her training mileage. However, she made it clear that her shoulder pain was not going to stop her, and she would get on her back and kick if need be. Nothing was going to stop her “unless it starts lightning,” she offers.
Jackson, who turned 60 in July but waited to swim until August when the lake would be quieter, also said she was feeling “very nervous.” During her nearly nine-mile journey, Jackson was accompanied by friends and family. Her husband and cousin alternated paddling beside her. A pair of friends paddleboarded a stretch with her. Supporters sat on boathouses waiting for her to swim by, playing songs on speakers including Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” and the theme song from Rocky. She made a point to speak to everyone, not seeming out of breath or tired.
At about mile three, in a part of the lake known as “the narrows,” Jackson says she was feeling great. She commented that it was a calm Monday morning on the lake,
besides one wakeboarder, and then she swam off with a butterfly stroke.
At around 12:15 p.m., just under six hours since the start, Mathis Dam was in Jackson’s eyesight. She was about a quarter mile away when people on boats started circling her, cheering and shouting things like, “We’re so proud of you” and “Go Cissy.” Friends and family clapped and celebrated as she finished her freestyle and stood up in the shallow water. The boats pointed at the dam as Jackson slammed her palm against it. Jumping up and down, she ripped off her swim cap. Taking a dunk into her favorite lake, she knew she had really done it. She said, “That wasn’t so bad,” with a big smile.
Jackson then hopped into her husband’s canoe, and he paddled to a boathouse
belonging to one of the Yakkers, where a victory celebration awaited with champagne and fireworks. The celebration also included a cake with an intricate design of Lake Rabun, known for its long, winding shape. Jackson sliced and passed the cake. She posed for pictures, including with her 87-year-old parents who live down the road from her at the lake and with her daughter Sarah Frances, a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and now an Alabama law school student. They posed under a sign that read, “Dam Cissy.”
In between bites of Rabun-themed strawberry cake, Jackson says, “I just feel really happy I was able to do this. There’s satisfaction in setting a goal and achieving it.” OTMJ
Author Rebecca Wilbert, a sophomore at Pace Academy in Atlanta, is no stranger to Lake Rabun. She and her family have a house on the lake in the narrows where she can watch Cissy swim by on her 60 th birthday.
left: Just keep swimming Cissy.
PHOTO BY JOHN CALHOUN
below: Celebration time with husband Steve—repelete with champagne and cake, which included a map of Lake Raburn.
PHOTO BY JOHN CALHOUN
CAKE PHOTO BY CAROLINE WILBERT CALHOUN
ARTS & CULTURE
A Case for Kindness
Greg and Michelle Suess bring Hollywood roots and humanitarian spirit to Mountain Brook.
When Greg and Michelle Suess packed up their lives four years ago and moved to Mountain Brook, they left behind Los Angeles’ endless traffic and Hollywood’s spotlight in search of something quieter: community, connection and a place to live out the values that have shaped both their personal and professional lives.
Those values led Greg to his most recent project, Case for Kindness, an awardwinning documentary created by filmmaker and philanthropist Steven Sawalich. Sawalich directed and produced the film, and Greg served as an executive producer. The project, which premiered on Amazon Prime on September 14, has already captured more
BY SARAH OWENS
than 75 international festival awards, including Best Feature Documentary and Best Director, and its message is as timely as ever: in a divided and often hostile world, kindness can change lives, heal wounds and create real, measurable impact.
For the Suess family, that message connects directly to their decision to put down roots in Alabama. Moving back to Michelle’s home state wasn’t just about geography—it was about finding a place where kindness and community could thrive. “We had tried to foster that sense of community in LA for several years, and we just didn’t feel it,” Michelle says. “It’s challenging in LA, because people are all across the city. It’s challenging to get around, and we wanted something where we would see the same people from
“One of the things we focus on in the film is how kindness can affect your body, mentally, physically, emotionally.”
–steven sawalich director & producer
time to time, and we could spend time together.” Mountain Brook, with its smalltown charm and slower pace, gave them what they were looking for.
THE FILM’S ORIGINS
Case for Kindness was born from Sawalich’s travels to more than 125 countries with the Starkey Hearing Foundation, where he saw how compassion transcended culture and language. “You don’t know the culture, you don’t know the language, but the thing that kind of bound people together was kindness,” Sawalich says.
He also recalled conversations with the Dalai Lama, who often said, “‘The happier you are, the kinder you’ll be, and the kinder you are, the happier you’ll be, which can lead to joy.’”
That idea resonated so strongly that it sparked a five-year journey of research, interviews and filming. “As we started looking into it and doing the research, we started finding that there’s a lot of scientific studies behind kindness,” Sawalich says. “That’s one of the things we focus on in the film, is how kindness can affect your body, mentally, physically, emotionally.”
The documentary confronts pressing issues—from racial injustice and mental health to bullying, hate, food insecurity and gun violence—through stories of people who responded with empathy instead of anger.
above, left: Documentary Executive Producer Greg Suess and his wife Michelle. above: The documentary poster.
Among its voices are the Dalai Lama, Ben Affleck, Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood and the late Norman Lear. The result is both intimate and expansive, weaving scientific studies on kindness with personal narratives of resilience.
Turning vision into reality, however, required partners. That’s where Greg stepped in.
FROM COLLABORATION
TO PARTNERSHIP
Greg, a founding partner of Activist Artists Management—a music, film and television talent management and advisory firm “founded on the belief that artists, actors and brands can create positive change in the world”—brought that professional mission into Case for Kindness. “I just couldn’t think of a more Activist project than the Case for Kindness,” Greg says. “It was like the perfect fit for what we feel as a company and what our mission is.”
His involvement began almost by chance. At a dinner party with Sawalich, the idea of a documentary on kindness came up. “He and
I were talking, and I mentioned the idea of doing a documentary around kindness, and I was kind of talking to him about the science and stories we wanted to tell,” Sawalich says.
“Greg started telling me about his company, Activist, and what they do, and I thought it was a perfect fit, and he offered to help. He brought in a few of the stories and was able to help provide funding through outside resources. He was just an all-in great guy to be a champion for me for the documentary and to help really get it off the ground.”
As an executive producer, Greg worked behind the scenes to shape the project and ensure it reached audiences who needed it most. For him, the mission wasn’t just about filmmaking—it was about amplifying a message he and Michelle already lived daily.
“As a general rule, we try to do something kind for everybody every day,” Greg says. “I try to, every day, do one tangible thing. By the end of the year, that’s 365 things that you
above: Getting ready to record the Dalai Lama. right: Tricia Yearwood and Garth Brooks
Fix the Small Problems Before They Become Big Ones
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That same spirit carried into Michelle’s work in communications, where she provided vital disaster relief assistance through the Entertainment Industry Foundation, including for the 2023 wildfires in Maui. And though her name doesn’t appear in the film credits, Greg says her encouragement was central to the project. “If you’re a true team and a true marriage, when one of you is involved in something, both of you are involved in something. And she was so encouraging, always with ideas,” he says. “There’s times where you feel like quitting, and you’re with somebody who’s really encouraging, and if it wasn’t for that encouragement, I’m not sure that that it all would have come together the same way.”
Together, their shared philosophy—living out kindness through daily action and supporting each other’s work—helped shape Case for Kindness into the film it has become.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF KINDNESS
Since its completion, Case for Kindness has struck a chord worldwide. Festival audiences have praised its honesty and hopefulness,
something different, and it depends on which story they gravitate towards,” he says. “I hope this just creates conversation and gets people to start asking questions, to start understanding each other and communicating. … My biggest goal right now is just for people to start a conversation and listen to each other, not try to be right, but just to listen to each other and be kind.”
Greg shares that hope, envisioning the film as a tool for dialogue in homes, schools, and communities. “I’m a big believer in the power of stories, and it’s the kind of thing that people could share over dinner and talk about it in schools. I think it’s awesome opportunity
“My biggest goal right now is just for people to start a conversation and listen to each other—not try to be right, but just to listen to each other and be kind.”
–steven sawalich, director & producer
leading to accolades across London, Dallas, Boulder, Barcelona and Beverly Hills. In 2024, Washington, D.C., even declared August 21 as “Case for Kindness Day.”
The Creative Coalition also honored the documentary with its 2024 Humanitarian Award. For Sawalich, though, the most meaningful achievement is the conversations the film has begun. “I think people take away
for schools to use it to discuss the topic of kindness. It has all the elements to really be impactful.”
As they see it, the film’s true impact will be measured in the conversations and actions it inspires for years to come. OTMJ
Case for Kindness is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.
above: Steven Sawalich interviewing Ben Affleck.
right: Norman Lear
IMPECCABLE TASTE
Antiques at the Gardens draws top design talent from across the country–including Schumacher’s Dara Caponigro.
BY MADOLINE MARKHAM KOONCE
Magical–
there’s perhaps no better word to describe Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ transformation for one weekend each fall. The country’s top interior design talent fill its interiors, and they are surrounded by decor more than fitting for their arrival.
Yes, Antiques at the Gardens, scheduled for Oct. 2-5 this year, is a renowned antiques market, but that’s only the start of it, with panels, talks and workshops by experts in design, architecture, landscaping and florals held throughout the weekend, plus a gala to kick it all off.
Among the tops of their field arriving in Birmingham for the event this year is Dara Caponigro, creative director of textile brand Schumacher and also editor in chief of Frederic magazine and former editor of Veranda and Domino. To get a taste of the talent and experience she will bring to Birmingham in October, we talked with her about her work at Schumacher, which is also the design sponsor of the event.
Most days you can find Caponigro in Schumacher’s New York design studio working on new fabric and wallpaper collections, but right after we spoke with her, she was heading to Paris to work with their artistic director there on her collections for Europe. “We are working on a new furniture collection for The Lacquer Company, which I am quite excited about and, of course, we are always looking for fresh ways to market everything we do,” she notes.
Caponigro is also quick to note that Schumacher, which was founded in 1889, still makes many items by hand with products that feature embroidery, hand blocks, hand prints and hand woven work. “I’m proud
above: Dara Caponigro serves as the creative director of textile brand Schumacher and also editor of Frederic magazine. She was formerly the editor of Veranda and Domino magazines.
left: Preppy Lifestyle: Caponigro oversees the design of Schumacher’s fabrics and wallpapers. Here on display are their Iconic Zebra, Chesterton Tape, Fishnet, Iconic Leopard, Nishi Weave, Cecil Cotton Chintz, Zipster, Chevron and Scout Embroidery.
PHOTO BY KEVIN KERR
to keep so many artisanal techniques alive—and the human touch comes through,” she says. “Our products have soul.”
While we’re on the subject of Schumacher, it’s worth noting that the brand is opening a showroom in Pepper Place in downtown Birmingham this fall. “We are coming to Birmingham because of its appreciation for beauty and its love of home but also for its energy and dynamism,” Caponigro says. “It’s a lot like Schumacher in that way, so we think we’ll feel right at home!”
Birmingham design firm Still Johnson is helping design the rustic modern space, and Caponigro notes they will have “a hefty selection of fabrics, wallpapers and trims—from classic prints to contemporary textures—available for designers to shop, but we’ll also have some accessories—signature pillows, handmade vases, colorful throws and some antiques—for any lover of design to purchase.”
Schumacher should feel right at home in Pepper Place surrounded by several interior design offices in the area along with other new design neighbors who have moved in recently, including to-the-trade textile company Kravet and Odette, a furniture store.
above: This living room features Schumacher pillows along with statementmaking White Blossom Wallpaper Panel by Iksel Decorative Arts at Schumacher.
PHOTO BY MAX KIM-BEE
left: Among many other design hats she wears, Caponigro authored the book S is for Style, along with The Authentics and Domino: The Book of Decorating.
PHOTO BY KEVIN KERR
“We
are coming to Birmingham because of its appreciation for beauty and its love of home but also for its energy and dynamism. It’s a lot like Schumacher in that way, so we think we’ll feel right at home!”
–dara caponigro
left: Schumacher’s Edwin Stripe wallpaper comes in birch, blush, citron, lavender, sky, sand and wheat colors.
PHOTO BY MELANIE ACEVEDO AT ALDER MANOR, YONKERS, NEW YORK
CHESTER
Expand Your Home
While the opening date for the new showroom hadn’t been set as our interview with Caponigro, what was set was her trip to Birmingham for Antiques at the Gardens. There she will moderate a panel on “Glorious Gardens” (also the name of a book she authored) with interior designers and design experts Thomas O’Brien and Katie Ridder (see page 30 for more on them).
“(Event co-chair) Heather Chadduck Hildegas and (BBG’s Director of Development) Penney Hartline have been a dream to work with,” she says of making plans to be at the event. “They are beyond organized, immensely creative and so supportive. These are women who think big! I’m impressed.” OTMJ
left: This bathroom features Indian Arbe in Hyacinth wallpaper from Schumacher’s 125th Anniversary Collection. The brand was founded in 1889, and Caponigro began working there just before the 125th anniversary.
PHOTO BY FRANCOIS HALARD
above: Caponigro will moderate a panel with the same title as her book Glorious Gardens at Antiques at the Gardens.
“We are a privately owned kitchen specialty shop. We specialize in functional pottery, gadgets, cookware, bakeware, tabletops, and lots more,” said owner Wesley Lassen, pictured with her well known shop dog, Lucy.
The Cook Store has been in Mountain Brook Village since 1975. Wesley has owned the popular shop since 1999—26 years.
“I grew up cooking with my mom so a kitchen shop is a great place for me. It’s a fun business,” Wesley said.
The Cook Store
LUCY IS ALWAYS READY TO ENTERTAIN WITH BEATRIZ BALL MELAMINE
“Everyone is always happy when they are talking about food.”
According to Wesley the three biggest trends in the kitchen world are:
1. Le Creuset ceramic nonstick cookware, cookware and more cookware and Cast Iron and enamel Dutch Ovens
2. Functional pottery
3. Bridal Registry all day long!! We love our Brides & Grooms that register with us. The Cook Store is located at 2841 Cahaba Road, 205879-5277.
WHO’S WHO IN DESIGN
Here’s a snapshot of the design talent speaking at this year’s Antiques at the Gardens. For tickets and more information, visit bbgardens.org/antiques and follow @antiquesgardensbham.
Martyn Lawrence Bullard
Los Angeles-based interior designer who has designed homes for RuPaul, Kylie Jenner, Cher, Kourtney Kardashian, Tommy Hilfiger and Ellen Pompeo, and author most recently of Star Style.
See him speaking: “Star Style: Designing with the Stars” on Oct. 3 with Birmingham’s own Veranda Editor in Chief Steele Marcoux.
Rebecca Gardner
Founder and creative director of Houses & Parties, an events, interior design and retail collective based in Savannah and New York City, and author of the newly published A Screaming Blast.
Ben Pentreath
Architectural designer and decorator, founder of London-based Ben Pentreath Ltd., co-founder of London interior and decoration shop Pentreath & Hall, and author of An English Vision and two other books.
See him speaking: “An English Vision” on Oct. 3.
Elaine Griffin
Interior designer, tastemaker and magazine editor who divides her time between her native Coastal Georgia and New York City, and author of Design Rules: The Insider’s Guide to Becoming Your Own Decorator.
Thomas O’Brien
Interior and home furnishings designer based in New York City known for translating modernism into a warm, livable style.
Katie Ridder
Interior designer with clients from Switzerland to Kentucky, designer of wallpaper and fabric lines represented at Holland & Sherry showrooms and author of A House in the Country and More Rooms.
See O’Brien & Ridder speaking: “Glorious Gardens” panel on Oct. 4 moderated by Frederic Editor in Chief Dara Caponigro.
Jane Scott Hodges
Tastemaker and founder and CEO of Leontine Linens, and author of Linens for Every Room and Occasion.
See Gardner, Griffin & Hodges speaking: “Hospitality: Then & Now” a panel on Oct. 4 moderated by Birmingham’s own Margot Shaw, editor in chief of FLOWER Magazine.
Marshall Watson
Interior designer who blends transatlantic and American design philosophies and author of The Art of Elegance and the newly published Defining Elegance. See him speak: “Defining Elegance” on Oct. 5.
Ray Booth
Alabama native, Auburn University School of Architecture graduate, partner with McAlpine architecture based in Nashville and New York and the author of the newly published The Expressive Home.
Jon Carloftis
Garden designer who returned to his roots in Kentucky after working in New York City for more than two decades and author of Jon Carloftis Fine Gardens and three earlier books.
Jimmie Henslee
Floral and interiors stylist, former Ralph Lauren alumni and self-taught gardener, poultry keeper and an avid collector of 18th-/19th-century textiles, pottery and books.
See him speak: “Sip and Clip: A Lesson in Floral Design” workshop on Oct. 4.
Steve and Brooke Giannetti
Architect and interior designer, respectively, who now own Patina Home and Garden shop in Leipers Fork, Tennessee, and authors of the newly published Patina Homes & Gardens.
See Booth, Carloftis and the Giannettis speak: “Creating a Livable Home: Inside & Out” on Oct. 5 .
Beautiful Rugs, Beautiful Spaces: Trusted 30+ Years
For over three decades, Eighteenth Street Orientals has been a valued partner to interior designers and a trusted destination for homeowners across the South and beyond. Familyowned and operated since 1986, our store offers a curated inventory of high-quality oriental rugs from around the world — paired with attentive, expert service that makes sourcing seamless.
Design professionals and homeowners alike will discover a wide range of handcrafted rugs from Turkey, Morocco, India, Pakistan, Tibet, and other regions known for their textile traditions. From vintage and traditional to transitional and
modern styles, Eighteenth Street Orientals provides pieces that work across a variety of aesthetics and project scales.
Owners Paige Drummond and Jim Howard support both trade clients and homeowners with complimentary in-home consultations, ensuring the right size, style, and palette for each space. Having worked closely with designers for decades, Paige and Jim understand timelines, project goals, and the details that make a room come together.
Eighteenth Street Orientals is located at 1829 29th Ave S, in Homewood, (205) 870-3838.
Mantooth Interiors
Birmingham’s premier interiors destination since 1973. “From elite furniture and upholstery to unique accessories, your complete satisfaction is always our top priority. Your room will be captivating but deeply personal, reflecting the essence of those who inhabit it,” said Mantooth Interiors owner Lynette Mantooth.
Pictured, from left, Danielle Manakides, Lynette Mantooth and Lori Twitty.
Mantooth Interiors is located at 2813 18th Street South in Homewood, (205) 879-5474.
ABOUT TOWN
OCT. 2-4
GREEKFESTBIRMINGHAM.COM
Become Greek for the weekend at the 52nd Annual Greek Food Festival set for October 2-4, 2025 from 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
The Greek Festival is Birmingham’s most anticipated cultural event offering an abundance of delicious Greek cuisine, prepared by the parishioners of the community and served by them during the Greek Food Festival weekend.
Thurs., Sept. 18
TULIP GALA
Parkinson Association of Alabama holds its first Tulip Gala, an evening dedicated to raising critical funds for the thousands of Alabama families affected by Parkinson’s disease.
WHEN: 6 p.m.
WHERE: The Country Club of Birmingham
Thurs., Sept. 18
CORRESPONDING ANGLES: THE STORY OF A SURVIVOR’S SON AND A LIBERATOR’S DAUGHTER
Gail Cohn, whose father helped liberate Ebensee, a subcamp of the notorious Mauthausen concentration camp, and Reuben Sloan, the son of one of the camp’s survivors, share the story of their powerful connection that spans generations. Registration is required for this program organized by the Alabama Holocaust Education Center. Learn more at ahecinfo.org/events.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Levite Jewish Community Center
Sept. 18-21
FIVE WOMEN WEARING THE SAME DRESS
During an ostentatious wedding reception at a Knoxville, Tennessee, estate, five reluctant, identically clad bridesmaids hide out in an upstairs bedroom, each with her own reason to avoid the proceedings below. Note that this “Homewood Theatre Extra” play falls in
our “After Dark Series.” That means it contains adult language and adult topics not normally presented at Homewood Theatre.
WHEN: Various showtimes
WHERE: Homewood Theatre
Fri., Sept. 19 ALES FOR ALZHEIMER’S
Live music, a food truck, silent auction, a chance to win Amazon gift cards and family friendly games and fun will be on hand for this fundraiser by Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama for the Lindy Harrell Pre-doctoral Scholars Program in Alzheimer’s Research at UAB. WHEN: 6-9 p.m.
WHERE: Brock’s Gap Brewing Company
September 19-21
LEGACY IN MOTION
The Alabama Ballet celebrates three decades of artistry and innovation from Associate Artistic Director Roger VanFleteren. This special program spotlights a curated selection of his favorite pieces.
WHEN: Various showtimes
WHERE: Alabama School of Fine Arts
Sept. 19-21
CAROLE COOK DIED FOR MY SINS
In this raw and revelatory solo show, actor Mason McCulley delivers a heartfelt tribute to two pivotal women in his life: his late mother and the legendary actress Carole Cook,
WHERE: Virginia Samford Theatre
Sept. 19-28
SOUTHBOUND FOOD FESTIVAL
A 10-day celebration spotlights over 100 chefs and tastemakers, with events such as a Gulf seafood heritage dinner, chef demonstrations and makers’ showcases, a funk brunch and more. Learn more at southboundfoodfest.com.
WHEN: Various times
WHERE: Various venues
Sat., Sept. 20
HEAD OVER TEAL 5K AND 10K
The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation presents the 16th annual Head Over Teal 5K and 10K races to raise awareness and support for gynecologic cancers. The race’s course is in a residential neighborhood off Preserve Parkway; shuttles will run from Prince of Peace Catholic Church. For more information visit runsignup.com/Race/AL/ Hoover/HeadOverTeal5Kand10K.
WHEN: 8 a.m.
WHERE: Hoover
Sun., Sept. 21
MAC+CHEESE FEST
Mac+Cheese Festival @ Back Forty Beer Company
Help raise funds for Community Grief Support while tasting and celebrating the South’s favorite comfort food! The family friendly festival will also feature face painting, a bounce house and more.
WHEN: 1-4 p.m.
WHERE: Back Forty Beer Company
Sat., Sept. 20
OKTOBERFEST @ CAHABA BREWING COMPANY
Celebrate Oktoberfest with beer, bites, a wiener dog race, a stein hoisting competition and more, plus live music and “Artoberfest” artist market at this annual event.
WHEN: 11 a.m.
WHERE: Cahaba Brewing Company
Sat., Sept 20
MAESTRO’S BALL
“A Night in Budapest” is the theme of this year’s gala fundraiser for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Travel through music to vibrant Budapest with the symphony in concert under the baton of maestro Carlos Izcaray.
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Alys Stephens Center
Fri., Sept. 26
ZOO GALA
Thurs., Sept. 25
EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION
DINNERTAINMENT
The Exceptional Foundation’s 12th Annual Dinnertainment is a night of exceptional entertainment by exceptional people! This dinner theatre party exhibits the Exceptional Foundation’s participants’ musical and artistic talents through a variety of shows and performances. One of the Exceptional Foundation’s main fundraisers, all proceeds go to support the Foundation’s programs. In addition to the show, guests enjoy a cocktail hour and art sale and a seated dinner. This year, Dinnertainment will honor Tricia Kirk, Exceptional Foundation’s longtime executive director.
WHEN: 6 p.m. cocktail hour; 7 p.m. dinner and 7:30 p.m. show
WHERE: Country Club of Birmingham
Go wild at the Birmingham Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser as the zoo celebrates its 70th year. The black-tie optional event is for those 21 and older and will feature food, cocktails, a live auction, dancing and some of the zoo’s animals.
WHEN: 6 p.m.
WHERE: The Birmingham Zoo
Sept. 26-27
THE CAT MAN OF ALEPPO
The Cat Man of Aleppo is a true story that follows Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, an ambulance driver who chooses to stay in war-torn Syria to care for the people and the animals left behind. Catch a staged reading of this powerful new play created for young audiences. Learn more at bct123.org/the-cat-man-of-aleppo.
WHEN: Oct 17th and 18th
WHERE: Birmingham Public Library Central Branch
Head
Sept. 26-28
HUMAN RIGHTS NEW WORKS FESTIVAL
Four works are presented during this three-day festival, including Dynamite Hill: A Different Kind of Love Story by Marc Raby, about a Black family in 1963 Birmingham living through the bombing of their neighborhood. Learn more about the festival at redmountaintheatre.org.
WHEN: Various showtimes
WHERE: Red Mountain Theatre
Sat., Sept. 27
FIESTA
Visit various “villages” celebrating Hispanic arts and culture from over 20 Latin American, Caribbean and European countries. Enjoy a variety of activities, including music and dance
performances, fun for the kids soccer, and more at this family friendly event.
WHEN: Noon-8 p.m.
WHERE: Linn Park
Sun., Sept. 28
SYMPHONY IN THE GARDENS
Pack a picnic and bring a blanket to spread on the lawn at the Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s annual free concert at the Botanical Gardens.
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WHEN: 4 p.m.
WHERE: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Oct. 3-19
GHOSTS
This new adaptation of Norwegian Henrik Ibsen’s classic play has been called a scathing commentary on 19th-century morality dealing with the unhappy consequences of breaking the moral code.
WHEN: Various showtimes WHERE: Birmingham Festival Theatre
Sun., Oct. 5
ALABAMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA GOES WILD
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra and the Birmingham Zoo are teaming up for a
one-of-a-kind family event that features live music and activities, including engaging with animals and instruments.
WHEN: 5-7:30 p.m.
WHERE: The Birmingham Zoo
Sun., Oct 5
CAHABA RIVER FRYDOWN
Support the Cahaba River Society and enjoy a fish fry competition at the 16th annual Cahaba River Frydown. More than just a cook-off, the Frydown is a full-scale festival of community, conservation and culinary creativity with live music, kids’ activities, environmental education stations and more.
WHEN: Noon-4 p.m.
WHERE: Cahaba Brewing Company
Fri., Oct. 17
PUTT FOR PITT HOPKINS
The 5th Annual Putt for Pitt Hopkins Golf Tournament at Highland Park Golf Course raises awareness for Pitt Hopkins Syndrome with proceeds benefitting the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation. The tournament was created by Homewood resident Stephanie Holley in honor of her son John Wesley Holley and Oxford, Alabama resident Brody Key, who have Pitt Hopkins Syndrome. Teams of four will enjoy 18 holes of golf, breakfast, lunch, a tee shirt and prizes!
WHEN: 9 a.m.
WHERE: Highland Park Golf OTMJ
HOMEWOOD LAUNCHES BIG-TIME SPORTS BROADCAST EXPERIENCE
BY LOYD MCINTOSH PHOTO BY JORDAN WALD
The press box at Waldrop Stadium is the place to be, as Homewood High School’s new broadcast team hits the air in 2025. Featuring some of Birmingham’s most experienced voices, the Patriots are broadcasting all home varsity football games on various digital platforms throughout the season.
The crew is anchored by play-by-play announcer Curt Bloom, a local broadcasting legend with more than 30 years of experience, including a 32-year stretch with the Birmingham Barons (1992-2024), the longest tenure in the team’s history. Throughout his career, Bloom has been the play-by-play announcer for college and professional football, baseball and basketball for UAB, the University of Alabama, Samford University, SEC baseball and NCAA Division I football coverage for ESPN. He even got a shot at the Major Leagues, announcing a Chicago White Sox-Cleveland Guardians game in 2022.
An inductee into the Southern League Hall of Fame, the Birmingham Barons Hall of Fame and the University of North Carolina Greensboro Hall of Fame (his alma mater), Bloom has also imparted his knowledge on a new generation of broadcasters as an assistant professor at Birmingham-Southern College and Miles College. Now, after three decades in college and professional sports broadcasting, Bloom was drawn to Homewood by Athletic Director Rick Baguley and Assistant Athletic Director John Lunceford, who are laying the groundwork for a dynamic future for Homewood Athletics. “What I love the most about them is their vision. That’s something that I have learned in my career; you have to have vision,” Bloom says. Additionally, Bloom says he was impressed with
Homewood’s tight, family oriented community, which was evident from the first game of the season—the Battle for Lakeshore against John Carroll. “It was a very easy transition,” Bloom says. “You hear this a lot, but this community is definitely a family. To me, what was so comforting was, almost instantly, I recognized three or four people that I’ve either broadcast with or I had a business relationship with over the years.”
The plan for 2025 is to broadcast home games and possibly an away game late in the season, most likely a playoff game. The game broadcasts are just part of a comprehensive multimedia plan for Homewood athletics, putting the school on par with many of the state’s top 7A schools and even some colleges. “I’m extremely lucky to be included, because many of the 7A schools are setting high standards. Lucky for me, a guy like Rick wants to challenge them,” says Bloom. “They’ve got the vision and the competitiveness to put us in our broadcast, eventually up with the other guys.”
Joining Bloom in the booth are head freshman team coach Chet Walker; legendary Homewood player Glenn Brasher; and Lunceford, a 2005 graduate of Homewood High School, broadcast veteran and a sports digital media strategist with an impressive resumé, including a stint as a host on 94.5 FM WJOX Sports Radio.
As Homewood High School’s Assistant Athletic Director for Communications & Social Media, Lunceford oversees branding, media and community engagement for all of the school’s athletic programs. In addition to game broadcasts, Lunceford is focused on improving the athletic department’s social media footprint, cooperating with local media outlets and developing broadcast plans for additional sports.
“The plan is to eventually do as much as
humanly possible,” says Lunceford. “Of course, we’re starting with football—that’s where everything starts—but then move into basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball. Lunceford continues, “It’s baby steps. We have home football set, now let’s work on road football, now let’s work on home basketball, home baseball. We’re figuring out where we have the right people to then plug them in to be able to do as much as we can without burning us all out.”
Additionally, Homewood High School’s new sports media class is providing hands-on educational opportunities for students with an interest in broadcasting and communications. “We wanted to get the kids involved running cameras, helping with the Jumbotron all that kind of stuff,” Lunceford says.
Before returning to his alma mater, Lunceford was the color analyst for the Thompson Warriors on the Warrior Nation Network. Over the last decade, Thompson High School has set a high standard as one of the most successful and largest 7A schools with a gameday atmosphere rivaling many universities. Lunceford believes the resources and passion for excellence in Homewood will enable the Patriots to rival any school’s media footprint. “We think there’s no reason for us not to be right where they are,” Lunceford says.
“We won three championships last year, and we can compete with the Thompsons and Hoovers of the world,” Lunceford adds. “The way teams look at Thompson, we want teams to look at Homewood that way, too. It’s going to take some time to get there, but that’s definitely the plan.”
Fans can catch broadcasts on the Homewood Athletics YouTube channel, the NFHS Network, the Homewood Athletics app and audio on Mixlr.com. OTMJ
HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL PAYS TRIBUTE TO BRAD KEIM.
BY LOYD MCINTOSH
Moments before kickoff of the season opener with John Carroll on August 22, Homewood High School paid a touching tribute to Brad Keim, the long-time public address announcer for Homewood athletics. The Voice of the Patriots for 13 years, Keim passed away on June 22 at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy that goes far beyond his work behind the microphone.
Homewood High School Athletics Director Rick Baguley says Keim had the heart of a servant who always had extra time for students and faculty, was quick to volunteer his time to help further the school’s mission in every way possible and was wellrespected throughout the community.
“Brad Keim was one of the most kind and sincere people I have ever met. He literally served in almost every area of Homewood High School. He took immense pride in his work and was extremely proud to know almost every student in our building by name,” Baguley says.
“As the public address announcer at our football, basketball and baseball games, Brad was known as a ‘consummate professional’ whom both teams and fans respected and appreciated,” Baguley adds. “Brad made a huge impact at Homewood High School and was quick to share his favorite line, ‘Once a Patriot, Always a Patriot,’ as he welcomed and honored current and former students, players, faculty, and staff.” OTMJ
from left: Chet Walker, Curt Bloom and Glenn Brasher