Celebrating our over the mountain communities.
OTMJ
INSIDE
| OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL • OTMJ.COM | Thursday, October 1, 2026
MOUNTAIN BROOK FLOWER SHOP PAGE 12
MEET ROB MCDANIEL PAGE 14
SAMFORD IN COSTA RICA PAGE 16
CELEBRATING HOMEWOOD STORY PAGE 11 »
Three on a String
OPINION
2 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
IN THIS
ISSUE
Happy 100 Birthday Homewood! th
SOCIAL
4 | Exceptional Foundation Dinnertainment 6 | Oktoberfest
H
7 | Mountain Brook High School Class of ’86 Celebrates 40th Reunion 8 | Blue Shoe Ball 8 | Viva Vestavia Hills 9 | Alabama Wildlife Federation Wild Game Cook-off
COMMUNITY
10 | Cahaba Heights Gateway Project nears completion of first phase.
PROFILE
12 | Mountain Brook Flower Shop owner Monte Haynes gives the history of this venerable institution.
FOOD
14 | Restaurateur Rob McDaniel talks instinct, trust and faith.
celebrating its Centennial in 2026. As a Homewood resident for 30 years, I’m so proud of the city and excited for what’s to come. I’m currently co-chairing the city’s Centennial Committee with my friend and former co-councilor Walter Jones, and we have a
picnic, which will be held in Central Park on October 17, to culminate a weekend full of events. We’ll have performances by the HHS Patriot Marching Band, the Network
PHOTO BY BRIT HUCKABAY
11 | Celebrating Homewood’s centennial.
omewood has a long and interesting history, and the city is
schedule of exciting events coming up. The largest is the free citywide Centennial
10 | L’AGENCE headlines Linly Heflin Scholarship Fashion Show. 10 | The Red Mountain Garden Club’s annual Greenery Sale.
and Nexus show choirs, Homewood Pops, performers from Homewood Theatre ending with headliners Three on a String. The night will end with festive fireworks lighting up the city’s sky. Check out page 11 for a full list of events and more information. And speaking of history, enjoy Cissy Jackson’s profile of Monte Haynes, the owner of Mountain Brook Flower Shop, which has been dealing in beauty for almost 80 years. Also read about some incredible young athletes who are making waves here at home and on the other side of the globe (Sports on pages 23 and 24). Happy Birthday Homewood, 100 years looks good on you! –BARRY WISE SMITH
EDUCATION
16 | Samford University introduces students to Costa Rica’s Pura Vida.
HEALTH
18 | Optimizing women’s hormone health.
| OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS |
ABOUT TOWN
20 | Things to do, people to see, music to hear
SPORTS
23 | From China to Mountain Brook: Sullivan Todd finds something special at home. 24 | Taking command: the emergence of Vestavia Hills’ Charlie Taaffe.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
JOU RNAL Thursday, October 1, 2026
Publisher & Executive Editor: Lee Hurley Editor: Barry Wise Smith Design Director: Claire Cormany Photography: Jordan Wald Contributors: Cara Clark, Cissy Jackson, Loyd McIntosh, Rebecca Wilbert Account Executives: Julie Trammell Edwards We would love to hear from you on any subject: lhurley@otmj.com
Vol. 35, No. 24
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper celebrating the communities of Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at lhurley@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2024 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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SOCIAL
4 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
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Exceptional Foundation Dinnertainment On September 17, the Exceptional Foundation hosted their annual fundraiser Dinnertainment—a night of exceptional entertainment by exceptional people! The theme for this year’s dinner theatre party was the ‘80’s and featured musical performances and skits by the Exceptional Foundation’s talented participants. The night started with a lively cocktail hour and silent auction, featuring a number of exciting items including artwork created by Exceptional Foundation artists. After a delicious dinner, guests enjoyed the performances and celebrity appearances by “Madonna” and “Michael Jackson.” The night culminated with the presentation of the second annual Tricia Kirk Legacy Award to Charlie and Carmine Jordan. The award is given in memory of Kirk who recently passed away. The Exceptional Foundation provides year-round social and recreational services for adults and children with intellectual disabilities. OTMJ
Annilyn Warner and Landess and Zach Smith
Courtney and Jacob Melvin
Doug Elliott, Peter Casten, Cecil Clark and Susan Elliott
Eric and Joan Bishop
Howard Hirsch and Lori Metrock
Kecia and Bill Heath, Lynn and Brian Lett and Sara and Peggy Powell
Andrea Wells, Claire Cormany, Kyle Couture and Jenni Tetloff
Christa and Michael Ketchum
Mary Cate and Trey Sims
Stephen and Karen Allen
Stephen and Michelle Puryear
Tom and Jennifer Williams
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 5
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Oktoberfest
PROST! On September 19, Oktoberfest fans enjoyed Cahaba Brewing Co.’s annual event featuring their seasonal Oktoberfest ale served in souvenir steins. Guests also enjoyed live music, the ARToberFest local art market, German-inspired eats, keg tosses, a weiner dog race and a stein hoisting competition with special prizes. OTMJ
William Stonestreet, Anthony King, Becca Lane and Ryan King
Alexa Vanderhill and Paul Marcu
Andrew Ault, Lauren Eich and Mike Brewer
Eve Shively and Ivey-Elise Waid
Cathy, Marty and Mark Coggins
Josh Thompson and Erin Hackenmueller
Kiersten Little and Sarah Holston
Coby Collins, Colin, Colt and Corey McIntyre
Ryan McClain and Carly Minor
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 7
| SOCIAL |
MOUNTAIN BROOK HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF ’86 CELEBRATES 40th REUNION More than 200 Mountain Brook High School Class of 1986 classmates and spouses traveled from California, Texas, New Jersey, South Florida and other spots to celebrate their 40th reunion on August 14-15. The weekend began Friday night at Cahaba Brewing Company, where classmate Samuel Sumner, also known as djdeepweb, kept the crowd dancing with a lively mix of favorite ’80s tunes. Guests were encouraged to dress in ’80s attire, and classmates enthusiastically embraced the theme. The evening featured everything from an old cheerleading uniform and football jerseys to vintage MTV and concert T-shirts, along with plenty of ’80s wigs and other nostalgic looks. Adding to the MTV connection, Scott Swoger even exchanged emails with a reunion invitation to MTV VJ Alan Hunter, who was the honoree of the MBHS 1985 Homecoming Parade. It was a fun reminder of just how connected the Class of ’86 was to the culture and memories of the decade they came of age in. Saturday evening continued at Mountain Brook Club, where James Clayton’s Slacker Bees provided live music for a packed dance floor well into the night. Between songs, classmates enjoyed catching up, sharing memories and reconnecting with friends they had not seen in years. For many, the reunion was a special opportunity to renew old friendships and create new memories. The weekend brought classmates together just as they had 40 years ago, making the celebration a memorable reflection of the deep connection, lasting friendships and truly special bond that make the Mountain Brook High School Class of ’86 such a close-knit and extraordinary class.
Reunion Committee: Bill Waudby, Katherine Malone Ball, Carolyn Bennett Vizzina, Scott Swoger, John Norris, Catherine Gross and Conley Knott (Not pictured Katherine McDavid Allen.)
A proven leader in the
COMMUNITY
Mem and Hall Bryant, Susan and Axel Barron, Mae Mae Kracke, Dawn Fuller Bussey, Kim Groover Filardi, Aree Frederick and Charles Brantley, Jimbo Hamn and Whitney Chapman
Scott Reed, Reid Harbin, Renie Humber Unrine, Barry Bloodstone, Katherine Kent DeBuys, Sally Waldrup Boyd, Casie Jones Walker, Jeff Hilley, Amy Dismukes Littleton, Wesley Goings, Stephen Keith and Artie Hanes
3rd STATE HOUSE
DISTRICT 47 ELECTMIKESHAW.COM Several of the Highlands Day School graduating class
Paid For by Comm. to Elect Mike Shaw P.O. Box 660082 Vestavia Hills, Al 35266
8 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
BLUE SHOE BALL On September 3, The Mike Slive Prostrate Cancer Foundation hosted their 10th anniversary Blue Shoe Ball at Regions Field to raise awareness and funding for cutting-edge prostate cancer research. The Foundation’s premier event featured iconic athletes, influential leaders and passionate supporters for an unforgettable evening where sports, storytelling and purpose came together to save lives. Guests enjoyed the VIP Legends Reception, a silent auction and a moving program featuring personal stories of survival and triumph. Since its founding in 2016, The Mike Slive Foundation has raised over $5.1 million for prostate cancer research. OTMJ
Alex and Nate Oats
Brittani Osborn, Ryan Griffin and Casey Dunn
Bruce Pearl, Pete Derzis, Craig Silver and Stephen Pearl
Chris Stewart, Cathy Mouron, Kayla White and Mike Mouron
Grant and Abbi Gargus and Leia and Trey Ragland
Mark Cohen, Candy Meyerson, Jack Warshal and Lynne Cohen
Nadia and Roy S. Johnson
Sanjeev and Mary Ann Hasabnis and Bob Barrett
Viva Vestavia Hills
On September 22, Viva Vestavia Hills—the annual Taste of Vestavia Hills event—returned to the fall. Viva Vestavia Hills is one of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce’s premier events and was held in the Vestavia Hills Civic Center ballroom. Guests enjoyed unlimited food and wine samples from over 20 Vestavia Hills area restaurants, bid on items in the silent auction and cast votes for their favorite restaurants, with prizes awarded for Best Food and Best Presentation. All guests received a commemorative wine glass. Proceeds from the event go to the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Foundation, which funds college scholarships for VHHS seniors each year, as well as other projects. OTMJ
April Pinson and Thomas Fort
Ben and Olivia Rice, Raleigh Macoy and Jeannie Rice
Harriet Shelly, Jim Moss and Maddie Lakes
Kelly Rice and Analyn Blair
Nathan Williams and Caroline Adams
Roy and Marcella Shepherd
Sara Manasco, Karlie Wilson and Avery Brown
Steve Rice and Donnie and Lynne Dobbins
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 9
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Alabama Wildlife Federation Wild Game Cook-off
On September 17, the Birmingham Zoo was the place to be for the Alabama Wildlife Federation’s Wild Game Cook-off in Birmingham. Registered teams cooked delicious dishes featuring wild game, and guests enjoyed the food and a one-year AWF membership. The event included door prizes, a raffle, a silent auction and live music from The Hams. OTMJ
Ali and Webb Bailey, Gavin Lee, Margaret Irby and Nicole Donnell
Anne Kellerman and Hollis Gilbert
Emily Lord and Miles Dye
Gary Walton and Jeb Pittard
Haley Potter and Reilly Schneider
John Norris, Hadley Smith and John Hutto
Patton Browning, Olivia Fontaine, Julianna Steen and Caleb Carter
Reed Jinright, Ben Mostellar and Nite Scott
10 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
COMMUNITY | SOCIAL |
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
from left: Gus Mayer COO Doug Prescott, Fashion show co-chair Kristin McPherson and chair Kathleen Doss, Linly Heflin President Susie Abbott and Gus Mayer President Jeff Pizitz.
Cahaba Heights Gateway Project Nears Completion of First Phase BY LOYD MCINTOSH
from left: Cahaba Heights Gateway Project committee members Jamie Purcell, Katherine McCree, Steve Pucchas, Jackie Couch, Brian Authement and Neil Couvillion. below: New sign welcoming visitors into Cahaba Heights.
L’AGENCE HEADLINES LINLY HEFLIN SCHOLARSHIP FASHION SHOW
W
ith the initial phase of the Cahaba Heights Gateway project nearly complete, Katherine McRee’s nearly decade-long vision for her beloved Vestavia Hills community is coming into focus. Cahaba Heights’ entry point from U.S. 280 along Pump House Road is the first part of the project and includes landscaping enhancements, walkability and safety improvements at the intersection with Dolly Ridge Road, and a large, contemporary industrial sign welcoming visitors into the community. For McRee, co-owner of The Lili Pad and Gigi’s boutiques and president of the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association, the progress is a positive step toward transforming the area into a dynamic, aesthetically appealing, vibrant village. “I live here, and my business is here, and I want this community to be something that everyone is proud of, wants to call home and finds their third place,” says McRee, alluding to the “third place” concept coined by urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg. The “third place” refers to informal public gathering spots separate from home (“first place”) and work (“second place”), where people build community through casual social interaction. In his writings, Oldenburg (1932–2022) expressed concern about the disappearance of “third places” as Americans raced for the suburbs and how car culture led to uninspired, homogeneous communities absent of character and charm. McRee, who grew up in Mountain Brook’s Crestline community, believes in the axiom “revitalize or die,” and says revitalization begins with an attractive neighborhood— after that, the rest falls into place. “It starts with aesthetics: your neighborhood looking welcoming and inviting, where you want to get to know your neighbors,” McRee says. “We want people to feel the experience, not just at The Lili Pad, but of all of Cahaba Heights.” A partnership between the city of Vestavia Hills and the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association, the Cahaba Heights Gateway project is a comprehensive plan to beautify the community and improve quality of life for residents, visitors and business owners. Under McRee’s leadership, the association has raised thousands of dollars for the project through private donations and events like Heights Hangout, an annual community festival held in the district each spring. Many of the district’s merchants also stepped up,
contributing time, expertise and materials to bring McRee’s vision to reality. Among them: Brian Authement, CEO and creative director of Cahaba Heights-based marketing firm Devote, who designed the sign; Jamie Purcell, owner of Leaf & Petal, who donated many of the plants at cost; Champion Tree Services, which donated tree removal and trimming work and Arc Realty, Heights Village and Ann Press Hospitality, which all contributed financially, according to McRee. Another significant improvement to the district is a development by Signature Homes, a real estate firm building a community of high-end houses on a plot of acreage behind Pipeline Road. The new neighborhood will include sidewalks—an important piece of the overall plan— connecting into the heart of the commercial district. The long-term vision for Cahaba Heights includes signage at every entry point, expanded landscaping and improved pedestrian access throughout the district, especially along Pipeline Road. A nondescript service road running behind Heights Village and used mostly by delivery trucks, Pipeline Road has tremendous potential to become a major community asset, according to McRee and Vestavia Hills City Manager Jeff Downs. “Long term, the follow-up plan is to improve Pipeline Road, which runs behind the shopping center and is what I call back-of-house,” Downs says. “It will turn into more of a front-of-house pedestrian corridor, because it was very challenging to place sidewalks or any pedestrian access in front of the shopping center without potentially taking away precious parking spaces for many of the businesses. So, moving the pedestrian way to Pipeline Road will be very beneficial.” Downs says city leadership was more than willing to contribute guidance and some funding to the project. He adds that McRee’s leadership, along with the contributions of everyone involved in the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association, is not only transforming their own community but reverberating citywide. “The city of Vestavia Hills is all about collaboration,” Downs says, “and the ability to work with the Cahaba Heights Merchants Association—namely Katherine—and our Public Services team gave us the opportunity to make a fairly unique gateway a real component of Cahaba Heights.” Downs continues, “When someone enters an area, you want them to feel—whether they’re a resident or a visitor— that this place cares about itself.” OTMJ
T
he Linly Heflin Unit will celebrate its 67th annual Scholarship Fashion Show on October 14 at The Club. The evening kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by the fashion show at 7 p.m. The annual fashion show is the primary fundraiser for Linly Heflin and will be presented in partnership with Gus Mayer. The event will highlight featured designer L’AGENCE as well as the latest fall fashions from Gus Mayer. The Show’s chair is Kathleen Doss with co-chair Kristin McPherson, and Linly Heflin’s president is Susie Abbott. For over 100 years, Linly Heflin has been awarding college scholarships to Alabama women. This year, approximately 100 women will receive scholarships of $10,000 per year for up to four years to pursue an undergraduate degree at an Alabama college or university. Many of these women are the first in their family to attend college. Recipients of the Linly Heflin scholarships must demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a critical need for financial support. OTMJ
Visit Linlyheflin.org for more information or to purchase tickets to the show.
WREATHS, GARLAND & TREES, YES, PLEASE! The Red Mountain Garden Club’s annual Greenery Sale offers festive wreaths, garlands, trees, crosses, kissing balls, amaryllis, bows and more. Orders can be placed at thegreenerysale.com from October 5 through November 6, 2026, with pickup on December 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Proceeds support the maintenance of the Memorial Garden at the Birmingham Museum of Art. OTMJ
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
| COMMUNITY |
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 11
FULL CENTENNIAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS: CENTENNIAL FILM FESTIVAL
left: Alabama Music Hall of Fame inductees Three on a String AKA Bobby Horton, Brad Ryan and Andy Meginniss are headlining the Homewood Centennial Picnic at Homewood Central Park on October 17.
Sunday, Oct. 4, 6:30 p.m. Patriot Park Come out to Patriot Park and watch Homewoodcentric films. The night will kick off with centennial videos from City of Homewood and Sim’s Garden, followed by the Pink House documentary, commissioned by the Homewood Historic Preservation Commission in 2020 and Salabama, a film about Homewood’s famous spotted salamanders. There will be complimentary popcorn and waters, and Neighbors ice cream shop will remain open later for people who need a sweet treat.
HOMEWOOD CENTENNIAL GALA BENEFITTING THE SIM’S GARDEN
CELEBRATING HOMEWOOD’S CENTENNIAL
Homewood has a slate of upcoming events to celebrate the city’s 100th birthday.
C
BY BARRY WISE SMITH
ue the fireworks—Homewood is turning 100! Throughout 2026, Homewood has been celebrating its centennial with local art exhibits, a Homewood author night at the Homewood Public Library and a centennial theme for We Love Homewood Day. Now, as the official date of incorporation approaches, Homewood is throwing a 100th birthday party like no other. On Saturday, October 17, from 2-5 p.m., the city is throwing a free, citywide centennial picnic at Homewood Central Park with a concert
lineup of amazing acts and a fireworks display to end the night. Hitting the stage will be the Homewood High School Patriot Marching Band and jazz band; the high school’s Network and Nexus show choirs; the Homewood Pops and performers from Homewood Theatre. The show will culminate with a performance by Alabama Music Hall of Fame inductees Three on a String, followed by festive fireworks. Three on a String—Bobby Horton, Andy Meginniss and Brad Ryan—got their start in 1971 with a performance in Steel, Alabama, and have been performing together ever since, for over 50 years. After the recent retirement of Jerry Ryan, the threesome performs a blend of bluegrass, gospel, folk and sing-along favorites—the perfect mix of music, entertainment and fun. In the band’s early days, Three on a String
Thursday, Oct. 15, 6 p.m. Soho Plaza and Rosewood Hall Step back in time to 1926, and celebrate the birth of Homewood with a red-carpet welcome, music from the Homewood Pops, stories from our city’s past, Homewood memorabilia and a live auction. The silent auction opens to the public through misssimsgarden.cbo.io on 10/1 for two weeks closing on 10/15. The Homewood Centennial Poster, an original watercolor designed by Homewood artist Chip Ghigna, is available to purchase at misssimsgarden.cbo.io. The evening’s emcees will be Mayor Jennifer Andress, Cole Cubelic and Chris Cooper.
HOMEWOOD FIRST RESPONDERS 5K & FUN RUN
performed regularly at the Lowenbrau Haus in downtown Homewood, continuing when the pub moved across the street to the curve and opened as the Stage Door. “Homewood has always been a special place for us,” Brad Ryan says. Bandmember Andy Meginniss has lived in Homewood for over 30 years. For the picnic, Homewood residents are encouraged to bring blankets or camp chairs and set up a for a full day of entertainment. There will be a lineup of food vendors, several pop-up tents and the Homewood Fire Department and Homewood Police Department displaying first responder vehicles, including HFD’s 1927 LaFrance fire truck. “We have a full slate of events this month, worthy of our 100 years,” says Mayor Jennifer Andress. “We have something for everyone: a film festival, a gala, a family fun picnic complete with fireworks, a cake-decorating contest, our First Responders 5k run, a time capsule burial and more. We hope everyone can carve out some time this month to celebrate Homewood, our people and our amazing community. A centennial celebration only happens once, and we are so fortunate to have this happen in our lifetime!”
HOMEWOOD CENTENNIAL POSTER
Available for Pre-Orders Now. Designed by Homewood artist Chip Ghigna. The original watercolor will be available through the gala’s silent auction open to anyone starting October 1 at misssimsgarden.cbo.io. For those attending the gala, a poster is included at no extra cost with every ticket, sponsorship, donation, or auction item donation to the Homewood Centennial Gala all of those options can also be made through misssimsgarden.cbo.io. If you have questions or trouble purchasing, please send an email to simsgarden@homewoodal.org. OTMJ
Saturday, Oct. 17, 5K at 8 a.m., Fun Run at 9 a.m. Stand with those who serve! The Homewood First Responders 5K supports the Homewood Police Foundation and the Homewood Fire Foundation, strengthening resources that keep our community safe. The race begins and ends at the Trak Shak on 18th Street and winds through downtown Homewood and the surrounding neighborhoods. The men and women of the Homewood Police and Fire Departments will be on the course and at the start and finish lines with patrol vehicles, fire trucks and McGruff the Crime Dog.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOMEWOOD CAKE DECORATING CONTEST Saturday, Oct. 17, Cake turn in 10 a.m.-noon; Winners announced at Picnic at 2:15 p.m. Help celebrate Homewood’s 100th birthday by decorating a birthday cake! All ages are welcome. Bring entries to Little Donkey between 10 a.m. and noon, with winners announced at 2:15 p.m. at the Centennial Picnic. Cakes will be judged by a panel including Mayor Jennifer Andress, School Superintendent Justin Heffner and representatives from each of our sponsor businesses. Prizes will be awarded for Best 12 and Under ($200 Homewood Toy & Hobby gift card); Best Centennial Theme—over 12 ($300 Shaia’s gift card); Best Decorated—over 12 ($200 Little Professor gift card); Best Tasting—over 12 (decorated Savage’s cake of your choice) and Grand Champion Cake ($400 cash and $100 Little Donkey gift card). Register at form. jotform.com/262647718338165.
HOMEWOOD ARTS COUNCIL RAINWORKS INSTALLATION The Homewood Arts Council will install promotional stencils touting the Centennial picnic throughout Homewood. The special super-hydrophobic coated stencils are non-toxic and biodegradable and visible only when it rains.
HOMEWOOD TIME CAPSULE BURIAL Thursday, Oct. 29, 4 p.m. Homewood Public Library Homewood marks its official Centennial birthday and incorporation date with a time capsule burial at the Homewood Public Library. OTMJ
PROFILE
12 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
| SOCIAL |
left: Mountain Brook Flower Shop owner Monty Haynes’ secret for staying in business so long is knowing and caring about his customers. below: The shop has been around for nearly 80 years.
Mountain Brook Flower Shop A Legacy of Beauty
M
BY CISSY JACKSON PHOTOS BY JORDAN WALD
ountain Book Flower Shop has been around for 77 years. Shop owner Monte Haynes gives us the history of this venerable institution. OTMJ: Tell me about the shop’s origins. Monty Haynes: An architect named D.O. Whilldin came to Birmingham from up north in the early 1900s. He designed hundreds of projects in Alabama, including Legion Field, Phillips High School, the Dr. Pepper Plant, the Sims-Florentine Building downtown and several houses in Redmont and Mountain Brook. In the 1940s, Mr. Whilldin bought a parcel of land on Montevallo Road and started building this little strip of shops where we are now. His descendants still own it. Around that same time, Mr. Frank McKay retired from U.S. Steel, where he had been responsible for all the landscaping. It wasn’t long before he became bored with retirement. Mr. McKay’s neighbor in Colonial Hills was Adria Spielberger, the owner of the Lingerie Shoppe (which at that time was on Petticoat Lane). Mrs. Spielberger had plans to move the Lingerie Shoppe to Mr. Whilldin’s new building, and she convinced Mr. McKay to open a flower shop there. The building was finished in late 1948, and Mr. McKay opened the Mountain Brook Flower Shop in January 1949. In 1957 or 1958, Birmingham native Maloy
Love was studying at Auburn when he came down with the flu. He missed so many days of class that he had to sit out the rest of the semester. Once he got well, he didn’t have anything to do. One of Maloy’s mother’s friends got him a job at the flower shop, and BOOM, it fit. Even while Maloy served in the Army after graduating, Mr. McKay would fly him from Texas to Birmingham on weekends to help with parties and events. After he left the Army, Maloy came to work at the shop full time. When Mr. McKay died in 1962, Maloy bought the shop from Mr. McKay’s sister. When did you come into the picture? In 1974. My high school biology teacher worked part-time at the shop, and they needed help getting ready for Easter that year. He came into class one day, asked if I was available to help that weekend, and the rest is history. When Maloy developed Parkinson’s, I took partial ownership, and after Maloy died in 2021, I became the shop’s sole owner. Maloy didn’t want anybody else to take over, because I knew the customers, and the customers knew me—it would be a smooth transition. This is not what I ever expected to do, but I think sometimes there’s a plan. I love this. It’s an honor to be a part of the most important moments in people’s lives. We are there for our customers from cradle to grave, but I think funerals are when people need us the most.
What are some changes the shop has seen over the years, and how have they affected your business? Online floral services and special events businesses are putting a lot of flower shops out of business. We have been lucky, because we have a good location, and our customers are loyal. We have generational relationships with many customers. For example, last Sunday I did flowers for a christening. That baby is the fifth generation in that family I have served. My very first task in 1974 was to deliver flowers to one of our customers. And recently, I did the funeral for her son. I have a 97-year-old customer who sends 40 arrangements every Christmas. He comes in to go over the list with us every year. I have another customer who’s almost 90. She sends flowers to her 90-year-old cousin once a month. Another customer used to sit Maloy down and feed him whenever he delivered flowers to her house. Not to be outdone by his grandmother, on Christmas Eve, her grandson would go to Western and load a grocery cart with things from the delicatessen—breads, meat platters, cheeses, desserts—and bottles upon bottles of champagne. He’d push that cart over here, and the door would fly open. Here we were trying to get all these centerpieces on tables—it was Christmas Eve! But he’d say, “Stop what you’re doing, it’s time to eat!” He stood here and made sandwiches for us and poured the champagne. And if anybody came in while they were doing last-minute shopping, he’d pour them a glass and offer them something to eat. People began to remember this and show up. He did this for years. People’s preferences have changed. In the 1940s when the shop opened, carnations, chrysanthemums and baby’s breath were popular. Now, one of the first things out of people’s mouths is, “NO CARNATIONS!”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
People like the French look in arrangements now. Instead of long-stemmed roses in a tall vase, customers like the roses cut short, so you’re looking right at the blossom. You can place those arrangements anywhere, too—the taller ones can be harder to find a spot for in somebody’s home. What’s one thing people may not know about your business? Sourcing flowers is almost like working in the stock market. Supply houses are locked onto their computers and tuned into the growers and the packing and shipping people so they can get things as soon as they’re available. If they wait too long, hoping for a better price, they don’t get the best quality or choices. Our roses come from Ecuador year-round, in the fall we can get peonies from Chile and New Zealand, and our tulips come from Canada, Holland and even Alaska. But even with global sourcing, some flowers just aren’t available at certain times of the year. Little Shop of Horrors— Just look behind you! Years ago, our neighbor, jeweler Rex Harris, asked us to re-pot his Rex Begonia, which he called Little Nell. We don’t have a potting bench, so we took it to Chris at Oak Street. Chris gave Nell a new pot, but there were some cuttings left over. She put those in a saucer with some potting medium, we put it up there by the window, and before long, little Little Nell needed a new pot. I scrambled around and found a container that would sit down inside that big olive jar, and now you can’t even see the jar. We laugh about how fast it grows, and we just get out of the way. So that one is a little like Audrey II. It doesn’t eat meat, does it? Thankfully, no. But it’s a legacy, like I am, and like the shop is. What do you like to do when you’re not working? I like photography. I took some courses, and I have some nice cameras, but I don’t have as much time to go shutterbugging as I used to. I like landscapes and architecture. I have a whole collection of church steeples—they’re all different, and they’re all architectural marvels. Do you have a favorite flower? I like different flowers for different seasons. Right now, I’m obsessed with these late summer tuberoses that grow in people’s yards up on Sand Mountain. In May, the peonies are marvelous. And I love it when the weather gets cold, and the tulips start coming in. Do you have a floral design philosophy? As Maloy used to say, “It just needs to be in good taste.” What’s your favorite occasion for flowers? The holidays, because there’s so much color and happiness. Why do you think Mountain Brook Flower Shop is still going strong after 77 years when most small businesses don’t last 10? Our customers have kept the doors open, and I’m so grateful. We know our customers, and just as importantly, we know the names of the people who work in their houses. We know what kinds of flowers and vases and sizes of arrangements our customers like and the colors that look good in their homes. When something is ordered for them or they order it for themselves, it’s done the way they want it done. This whole thing revolves around service for our customers. OTMJ
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 13
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Style Meets Comfort 5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 205-980-9030 southeasternjewelers.net (1/4 mile off 280)
FOOD
14 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
| SOCIAL |
left: Helen and Bayonet founder Rob McDaniel. below: The raw bar at Bayonet includes Rob McDaniel’s unique take on a bounty of offerings from the sea, including oysters, smoked mussels, confit octopus, razor clams, cobia mortadella, wahoo ham and fish-head terrine.
home-style big 170-seat restaurant to a 54-seat, basically pescatarian, all-seafood bar,” he says. Even the paintings tell the story. Created by McDaniel’s friend Roscoe Hall, the works hanging inside the restaurant’s waiting space are painted with food pigments, including ingredients such as sweet potato, hibiscus and turmeric, transformed into color. What begins as something meant to be eaten becomes something meant to be seen and felt. The restaurant represents a departure from what McDaniel already did well. It is a place where he can take what he knows, turn it over and see what else it can become. Bayonet itself was not what McDaniel originally intended to build. He envisioned the space as an oyster bar that would provide overflow for Helen, giving guests a place to wait, have a drink or eat something before their table was ready. But building code requirements made that impossible because the space served as an entrance and exit to the building. What initially looked like a logistical problem became an opportunity. “It was also a blessing in disguise because it made me realize that this size of restaurant is really what I want to be doing,” he says. At Bayonet, the smaller footprint has influenced almost everything, including the way McDaniel approaches teamwork. He established a shared tip pool for eligible employees, a system he says has helped remove some of the competition that can creep into restaurant work. “Not many people do that, but it’s turned out to be really good because everybody’s working for the same thing,” he says. “There’s no, ‘You may have gotten more tables than I did,’ or, ‘I did more work than you did.’ Everybody’s working together as a team.” That idea of shared responsibility has become increasingly important as McDaniel’s own job has changed. For years, his identity was tied primarily to cooking. Now, much of his time is
Green Light Moments
Restaurateur Rob McDaniel talks instinct, trust and faith.
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STORY AND PHOTOS BY CARA CLARK
hen acclaimed chef Rob McDaniel opened his second restaurant, he was determined to take a different direction from Helen, his first, named in homage to his grandmother. The new direction began with a name: Bayonet, derived from the Spanish bayonet plant, engineered by nature to survive difficult conditions—heat, drought and the salt of coastal environments. When McDaniel opened Bayonet in 2025, the name carried an association with strength and resilience. But the restaurant represents something more personal: what happens when a chef takes what he already knows and gives himself permission to make something different. One of the clearest representations of that shift is nearly hidden in a hall where seafood
dishes move from the kitchen to the “pass” for pickup and delivery. On the wall, rice-paper artwork of fresh fish, created by McDaniel, casually adorns the space. It’s a mindful way for the chef-owner to document fish through the centuries-old Japanese art of gyotaku. He carefully applies non-toxic ink to a whole fish, then presses fine paper over its surface to capture every scale, fin and contour in a precise, life-sized impression. The result is a refined piece of art that reflects both his culinary craft and his new endeavor. “When people open a second restaurant, it’s easy to be very similar to the first one that you open because that’s what you know,” McDaniel says. “It can be very difficult to completely switch gears.” McDaniel knew exactly how difficult that switch would be: “From a wood-burning, meat-heavy, vegetable-heavy,
spent running the business—managing people, finances and the systems that keep two restaurants running. “The business side of things is something that you don’t really get fully immersed in until it’s yours to do,” he says. “So, it’s mine to do. I’m fully immersed in it and had to shift gears a little bit.” The shift has also forced him to think differently about leadership. Earlier in his career, while working at Russell Lands and Spring House, McDaniel was given considerable freedom to develop his own ideas. He was responsible for the fundamentals of running a kitchen, but he was also given room to experiment, fail and figure out what worked. Now he wants to give the people around him that same opportunity. “We have some of the most amazing team members that generally, you know, love to come to work,” he says. “No job is perfect, and we’re not perfect, and we make mistakes, and we have off days, and we’re just like anybody else. But we try to create and keep an environment that is welcoming to our employees, because I feel like that automatically makes for a better dining experience for our guests.”
The bayonet plant painting by Roscoe Hall.
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The philosophy is easiest to understand through a night when McDaniel wasn’t at Helen. A celebrity guest arrived while McDaniel was away in Auburn for a two-day residency at 1856. The reservation had originally been made under another name, but on the day of the meal, it became clear that the guest was Matthew McConaughey, who was in town filming a movie. McDaniel’s first reaction was to get in the car. Then he reconsidered. “What kind of message does that send to my team if I come running in for a celebrity?” he says. He stayed in Auburn and trusted his team to handle the evening. “I felt like it sent a more powerful message for me not to show up and let them know that I trusted them to make sure that everything happened the way it did,” he says. There was another reason the evening stayed with McDaniel. He had listened to McConaughey’s book, Greenlights, while working, and the book had given him a way of thinking about the opportunities that had brought him to restaurant ownership— moments when circumstances seemed to open a path forward. “McConaughey talks about opportunities he had, and green lights for him to move forward,” McDaniel says. “When we first opened Helen, I’d be back in the back rolling angel biscuits, and I was listening to the book and thinking, ‘I am living in my green light moment right now.’” He never got the chance to tell McConaughey that story directly, but a couple of months after the visit, McConaughey’s wife posted a photograph wearing a Helen hat. The photograph went viral, drawing even more attention to the restaurant. For McDaniel, the synchronicity of those fits into the way he understands his life: an unexpected opportunity appears, you recognize it, and you walk through the door. That idea goes back to the decision that greenlit Helen. One morning, while sitting alone at Spring House before service, McDaniel’s devotional
| FOOD |
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 15
above: At Bayonet, a burger is reimagined with yellowfin tuna, American cheese, lettuce and Dubyah sauce, complemented by a more conventional side of fries. right: The Bayonet foyer with oyster plates on the wall.
opened to Deuteronomy 1:6: “You have been on this mountain long enough.” He recalls, “When I read that, you know, I heard, ‘You’ve been at this lake long enough. And I felt like I had summited, and I wasn’t going to be able to climb any higher.” He had thought about opening his own restaurant for years, but there seemed to be a clear message, and the idea became a possibility. He went home and told Emily. “And Emily said, ‘Well, it sounds like we need to start figuring out our move.’” They turned in their notices in November 2019. Months later, COVID-19 transformed the restaurant industry. While the pandemic complicated their plans, it also became an unexpected lesson in preparation. When Helen eventually opened, McDaniel chose to bring guests into the dining room. “I didn’t want people’s first experience of a restaurant with my grandmother’s name on it to be out of a to-go box,” he says. They opened carefully, spacing tables and operating at half capacity for roughly six months. The experience taught McDaniel another lesson he carried into Bayonet: the importance of financial runway and the ability to adapt when circumstances change. “When we first opened, standing there, and then just
below: McDaniel with his fish sketches.
being like, ‘This is what I prayed for, and we’ve got it,’” he says. That sense of providence is inseparable from the way McDaniel talks about his career. It is also part of why he describes the restaurants not simply as the result of his own work, but as something made possible by the people who joined him along the way. McDaniel and his wife, Emily, are raising twin daughters, and fatherhood has changed the way he thinks about his responsibilities. His work remains important, but he no longer sees it as the center of his life. “I have a bigger obligation besides the obligation that I have with two restaurants and the staff and running them,” he says. “My obligation is bigger than that: one relationship with Christ, two to be a great husband, and three to be a great father. I have to keep those things prioritized.” He works from home when possible and structures his days around his daughters’ schedules. That same sense of partnership defines his relationship with Emily, who owns 51 percent of the business while McDaniel owns the remaining share. “We never thought that we would be working together,” McDaniel says. “And truth be told, if you had asked us when we were living at the lake, and somebody said, ‘Could y’all work together?’ we would have both said, ‘No, there’s no way.’”
Like a squeeze of lemon over a fresh oyster, Emily and McDaniel bring something different to the same table. The acidity and brightness of the lemon cut through the oyster’s creamy texture and brine, creating a balance that neither provides on its own. Emily manages much of the infrastructure behind the restaurants, including bills, licenses and relationships with purveyors. She also oversees social media for both restaurants, drawing on her marketing background. Director of operations Daniel Gosling is another important part of the partnership. He worked with McDaniel at Spring House. With the restaurant world shut down or restricted, much of the planning happened at the McDaniels’ Vestavia Hills home. “We planned out the whole restaurant,” McDaniel says. “We did wine tastings there, coffee tastings there. We tested linens, silverware, glassware and plateware there. I mean, all the things. And he’s been with us since the beginning.” The common thread is not just the food but the level of trust—trust in those around him and in a higher power. For McDaniel, faith is part of knowing when to make room for that transformation, recognizing the next opportunity, and trusting that he will know when to take it. Amen. OTMJ
16 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
EDUCATION | SOCIAL |
left: Ella Madalinski and Blake Andres hard at work. above: The Finca de Samford campus in Costa Rica offers Samford students a unique study-abroad experience.
Finca de Samford Samford University introduces students to Costa Rica’s Pura Vida.
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uilding an app for future study abroad students. Cooking traditional Costa Rican foods. Improving Spanish-speaking skills. Serving the San Jose community. Slowing down.These were just a few highlights for Samford University students who studied in Costa Rica earlier this year. In addition to Samford University’s Homewood campus, the school has long had the Daniel House in London as the centerpiece of its study abroad programming. But in August 2025, Samford purchased another study-abroad home, this time on 14 acres in Costa Rica’s mountainous countryside. The first students— a cohort of five—spent a semester at so-called Finca de Samford, starting in January. Now, a year after the purchase of the 10,000-square-foot home and with the start of fall semester, the university looks forward to hosting even more students and offering expanded opportunities. One goal is to do more service, including in the nearby community of Ciudad Colón and in San Jose, which is about 40 minutes away. Samford leaders who chose to purchase Finca de Samford wanted the additional study abroad experience to be very different from what the university offers in London, according to Jordan Cummings, director of global
BY REBECCA WILBERT engagement. The Daniel House is a five-story house in central London, roughly a mile from Kensington Palace. “Everyone felt led to create a property that would be similar to the Daniel House but would have its own emphasis, its own unique purpose,” Cummings says. “This property fulfilled that. It is a unique place. It offers a different pace. It offers a reflective space.” The first semester was a success, with students ranging from a freshman to a graduating senior, all of whom created close bonds and friendships. The students posted on Instagram, sharing images and videos of visits to local stores and
restaurants, a walk along a path on the lush campus, a sunset (admired from a window at Finca de Samford), cooking local food together and even a dance party with Costa Rican music in the house. Ella Madalinski, a computer science major from Crystal Springs, Illinois, was among the first students to live at Finca de Samford. She says she had wanted to study abroad since she visited Samford as a high school below: A stone pathway leads to a beautiful pool surrounded by lush greenery at Finca de Samford.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
student, and the new program in Costa Rica was particularly appealing because it allowed her to practice her Spanish-speaking skills. “When I toured Samford as a senior in high school, one of the only vivid memories I have of my tour was seeing a study abroad sign standing outside the library,” she says. “It was a really random thing to remember, but I knew that the Lord was calling me to study abroad in some capacity during my time at Samford.” For Blake Andres, a sports business and Spanish major from Orlando, Florida, the main draw was the idea of spreading Samford’s Christian mission in a new country. Also, he says, “Costa Rica’s many beaches, biodiversity, food and culture promised that we would be able to embark on many once in a lifetime excursions and weekend trips.” Students took humanities classes, along with independent studies related to their majors. For Andres’ independent study, he built a directory of non-profit and mission organizations, combining his business studies with his passions for service and mission work. For Madalinski’s independent study, she put her computer science skills to work building an app for future Finca de Samford students that included a guide with information about Costa Rica, as well as Andres’ directory. Participants say they learned how to slow down, as Costa Rica has a different pace of life that helped them appreciate the world around them. Madalinski put it this way, “I’ve known for a while that God calls us to be still, but I never understood why or how before my experience in Costa Rica.” Finca de Samford has a stone pathway down to a rectangular pool surrounded by lush greenery and nature. Cummings recalls getting the house ready for the inaugural session when she saw a beautiful toucan with a yellow belly and bright colorful beak fly by. While she was calling out to her colleague to come see it, the toucan’s partner came by. Toucans mate for life, which she says, “represented the Finca because it’s a place about being together, about living in community.” OTMJ
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 17
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In Vulcan's Shadow A beautiful young coed has been missing from the normally quiet Samford University campus for years. This “cold case” becomes hot again when a human skeleton is found behind an old fraternity house. Retired FBI agent and Samford graduate Maury Berthon’s fourth novel is a page turner set in the Magic City.
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OTMJ
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Published by Archway, the book is available on Amazon, Walmart and the publisher’s website: archwaypublishing.com
18 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
HEALTH | SOCIAL |
Icona health founders Alan and Amy McCool (seated) with Provision Studio lead instructor Kristy McKinney.
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“The idea behind Provision is providing people with the tools, education and community to feel strong and capable in their bodies for the long term.” –margaret virden hill
Helping Women Handle Their Hormone Health
Provision Studio and Icona Health partner to educate women on hormone health at every age and stage.
A
BY BARRY WISE SMITH PHOTO BY JORDAN WALD
my McCool didn’t know much about hormone therapies, perimenopause or menopause when she started experiencing symptoms in her late 30s. “At the time, I did not realize these changes were due to hormonal shifts,” Amy says. But by the time she was in her 40s, Amy started to experience anxiety that morphed into depression. “I was so ashamed and didn’t tell anyone about my struggles,” she remembers. “I thought I could force myself out of it.” But as most women learn, you can’t force yourself out of hormone imbalances that can significantly affect your quality of life. In a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, nearly 70 percent of women surveyed reported having a poor quality of life during menopause. After a year of suffering, Amy finally confided in her husband Dr. Alan McCool, a board-certified urologist, to see if he could help her figure out what was going on.
Alan started by asking OBGYN colleagues how they treated symptoms in their patients but didn’t get far, so he started his own research and began taking courses through the Academy for Advanced Women’s Health Medicine. Alan then started Amy on hormone replacement therapy (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone). “Within days of starting estrogen, I started feeling better,” Amy recalls. “I also loved the calming effect of taking progesterone at night. My sleep improved, and my early morning anxiety stopped. I woke up feeling well rested and motivated for the first time in a long time.” Through their experience, Amy and Alan saw the need for care specific to women’s hormone health, and in June of this year, they opened Icona Health, a boutique hormone health and wellness practice. “Icona Health was created to fill a gap,” Amy says. “We felt that women needed to be a part of the decision making for their health care and deserved to know all the treatment options and what might work best for their lifestyle.”
In September, Icona Health partnered with Provision Studio, a Homewood Pilates and fitness studio, for a workshop on women’s hormone health. Amy worked as an instructor at Provision and knew founder and owner Margaret Virden Hill’s commitment to women’s health. “We’re always looking for opportunities to bring in experts from outside of fitness, because health is so much bigger than exercise,” Margaret says. “That’s one of the reasons we were excited about partnering with Icona Health. We want to create opportunities for women to hear from different healthcare and wellness professionals and learn how all of those pieces fit together.” Margaret continues, “The idea behind Provision is providing people with the tools, education and community to feel strong and capable in their bodies for the long term. Women go through so many different seasons of life: pregnancy, postpartum, hormonal changes, aging, injuries, career changes, motherhood, menopause, and their bodies and needs change throughout all of those seasons. We think movement should be something that adapts with you, rather than something you have to force your body to fit into.” At the workshop, women at every age and stage did a 30-minute strength workout led by Provision lead instructor Kristy McKinney followed by an education session with Alan and Amy about hormone health. Participants asked questions and learned about options for treating not just perimenopause and menopause but postpartum depression and other hormonal syndromes. “Women go from puberty to pregnancy and postpartum to pre- and perimenopause and finally menopause, and each stage has its own challenges,” Alan said during the workshop. “Our goal at Icona is to help you optimize your hormones so that you can live your best life.” Margaret stresses the importance of women building and protecting muscle strength, protecting metabolic and hormonal health and taking care of emotional and spiritual health. “At Provision, we really want to reinforce the idea that internal beauty is more important than external beauty. We want women to feel strong, confident, capable, connected and at home in their bodies, not feel like they have to constantly change their appearance to be healthy or worthy,” she says. In addition to perimenopause/menopause care, Icona Health also works with women suffering from PMDD, PMOS (formerly PCOS) and postpartum depression. “Our favorite thing is working with couples,” Amy says enthusiastically. “It is very rewarding when both people in the relationship are feeling their best.” And for Amy, through Alan’s research, she has found a new lease on life through hormone replacement therapy. Her advice for women experiencing hormonal imbalances, “You are not alone, and don’t wait. If you are having symptoms that affect your quality of life, seek help and don’t be ashamed to talk about it.” OTMJ To learn more about Provision Studio, visit provisionstudio. com, and for more information about the services Icona Health provides, visit iconahealth.com.
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 19
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When the School Nurse Calls, Call Medical House Calls Because you’re the one who picks up, the one who worries, and the one who has to figure out what happens next.
By Elizabeth Fuller, CRNP, Senior Nurse Practitioner at Medical House Calls
The Call That Changes Everything
You know the one. Your phone lights up with the school’s number, and before anyone says a word, you’re already doing the math: pickup time, the meeting you’re missing, who else needs a ride, whether this is a rest-and-fluids day or a urgent care visit day. It’s a ten-second phone call that somehow reorganizes your entire afternoon, and for a lot of families in Mountain Brook, Homewood, Hoover, and Vestavia Hills, it happens more than once a season. Most households have one person who fields these calls, tracks the symptoms, remembers the last time this happened, and knows which sibling caught it last. That’s a full job stacked on top of everyone else’s job, invisible on paper but very real by 3 p.m. on a school day. As the weather turns and cold and flu season sets in, those calls only get more frequent, and the mental math gets heavier each time, especially once whatever your child brought home starts working its way through the rest of the house.
Care That Comes to You
Medical House Calls sends a licensed provider straight to your home, office, or
wherever your day already has you, with medical-grade equipment and the same standard of care you’d expect from any clinic. We treat what a traditional urgent care treats: flu, strep, ear infections, stomach bugs, sinus infections, minor injuries, and more, for patients of any age, from your kindergartner to your teenager to you, and to grandparents helping out that week too. Same-day availability means the visit usually happens before you’ve had time to rearrange your whole week around it, and a telehealth visit is available first if you’re not sure a house call is even needed yet. One flat fee covers the evaluation, the exam, and the treatment plan, with no insurance paperwork and no surprise bill later. Many prescriptions can be handed to you on the spot instead of adding a pharmacy stop to an already long day, and you’ll leave with clear aftercare instructions instead of a rushed hallway explanation. And if more than one child is under the weather, seeing additional household members during the same visit qualifies for a discount, so you’re not paying full price twice or making two separate trips. No waiting room, no packing up other siblings to sit in one, no choosing between your kid and your calendar. You get your evening back, your child gets seen at home, and you get to be the parent in the room instead of the one refreshing the check-in screen from the school parking lot.
Beyond the Sick Day
“Moms are usually the ones fielding that call, rearranging the whole day, and then still showing up for everyone else. We built Medical House Calls so that call doesn’t have to derail your day.” ELIZABETH FULLER
The point isn’t just treating one fever faster. It’s giving you back the time and presence that call would otherwise take from you, so you’re managing your child’s health instead of your entire day being managed by it. Multiply that across a school year, and the difference adds up to a lot fewer disrupted afternoons and a lot less catching up on everything else that got pushed aside. For families who want this kind of access built in year-round, our Concierge Primary Care membership adds unlimited house calls, in-home annual physicals and lab work, and a rapid referral network that gets you in with a specialist in three to five days when something needs more than a home visit. Members also save on IV therapy and other services when the rest of the family just needs a boost, not a diagnosis. You get direct access to your care team by phone or text, so the next school-nurse call is just a call, not a scramble to find an appointment heading into the busiest stretch of cold and flu season.
The next time the school calls, you shouldn’t have to choose between showing up for your kid and blowing up your day. Call or text Medical House Calls at 205.793.6003 or visit MedicalHouseCalls. com to get started.
20 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
ABOUT TOWN | SOCIAL |
Sat.-Sun., Oct. 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25 and Sat., Oct. 31 HOOTS AND HOWLS
Thurs., Oct 1
GALA IN THE GARDENS
Calling all ghouls and goblins, it’s trick-or-treat October at the Birmingham Zoo with candy stations, magic shows, a Dino Dance party, interactive animal shows at Gigi’s Porch, DJs from Feel the Beat spinning spooky tunes plus lawn games and plenty of photo ops. WHEN: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. WHERE: Birmingham Zoo
Kick off Antiques at the Gardens with an elegant evening featuring early shopping, garden installations and a black-tie celebration. WHEN: 6 p.m. WHERE: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Thurs., Oct. 1 CAAMP
Folk-rock band Caamp brings its blend of warm harmonies, acoustic sounds and Americana-inspired music to Birmingham. WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Coca-Cola Amphitheater
Thurs., Oct. 1-Sat., Oct. 3
Thurs., Oct. 1-Sun., Oct. 4
Fri., Oct. 2-Sun., Oct. 4
Shop antiques, art, jewelry, textiles and home décor while enjoying special programs featuring designers, architects and tastemakers. WHEN: 9 a.m. WHERE: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Alabama Ballet celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with a mixed repertory program featuring contemporary, abstract and neoclassical works. WHEN: Various show times WHERE: BJCC Theatre
ANTIQUES AT THE GARDENS
The nationally recognized juried art show brings artists from Birmingham and across the country together to showcase work in a variety of mediums. WHEN: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. WHERE: Bluff Park, Hoover
Sat., Oct. 3
JIMMIE HALE MISSION RESCUE RUN Run through downtown Homewood in a 10K, 5K or one-mile fun run benefiting the Jimmie Hale Mission. WHEN: 7:45-11 a.m. WHERE: Downtown Homewood
Sat., Oct. 3
UAB BLAZERS VS. SAMFORD BULLDOGS The UAB Blazers take on cross-town rivals Samford Bulldogs at Protective Stadium. WHEN: 2:30 p.m. WHERE: Protective Stadium
AMERICAN PORTRAITS
SYMPHONY GOES WILD The Alabama Symphony Orchestra and Birmingham Zoo team up for a family friendly evening of live music, animals and pre-concert activities. WHEN: 5 p.m. WHERE: Birmingham Zoo
Sun., Oct. 4
THIEF, POET, AND SONGS
CAHABAQUE TAILGATE CHALLENGE
Sat., Oct. 3
MARCUS HUMMON, CINDY MORGAN & TOMMY SIMS
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs works by Rossini, Rachmaninoff and Dvořák, joined by guest pianist Dina Kasman. WHEN: Friday, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday, 7 p.m. WHERE: Alys Stephens Center
Enjoy barbecue, football and friendly competition at this annual tailgate event benefiting local breast cancer research. WHEN: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. WHERE: Cahaba Brewing Co.
Three award-winning songwriters come together for an intimate Heart Behind the Music showcase featuring songs and stories. WHEN: 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. WHERE: The Library Theatre, Hoover Public Library
Fri., Oct. 2-Sat., Oct. 3
BIRMINGHAM GREEK FESTIVAL Become Greek for the weekend with authentic Greek food, live music and dancing, cathedral tours and more at this longtime Birmingham tradition. WHEN: 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. WHERE: Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Sat., Oct. 3
63RD ANNUAL BLUFF PARK ART SHOW
Sun., Oct. 4
Fri., Oct. 2
6th ANNUAL HAUTE PINK FASHION SHOW Breast cancer survivors and thrivers take the runway alongside professional models at this annual fashion event benefiting Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center. WHEN: 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Compassion You Can Count On When you’re in the hospital, medical expertise matters most. But, compassion also helps you heal. At Grandview Medical Center, you can count on a team that’s with you for the hard times, celebrates your victories, and shows up for the quiet moments in between. Whether taking the time to offer a hand to hold, a warm smile, or a kind word right when you need it, our nurses and care teams work to make you feel truly seen and understood. Because sometimes the best medicine is knowing someone cares. Count on comfort. Count on kindness. Count on Grandview.
CountOnGrandview.com
Healthcare You Can Count On
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
| ABOUT TOWN |
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 21
Sun., Oct. 4
Fri., Oct. 16-Sun., Oct. 18
Bring your blankets and camp chairs, and enjoy Homewood-centric short films that show the behindthe-scenes history of this 100-year-old city. WHEN: 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Patriot Park
Life-size dinosaurs take over the BJCC during this family-friendly touring experience featuring prehistoric creatures and interactive attractions. WHEN: Various Times WHERE: BJCC North Exhibition Hall
JURASSIC QUEST
HOMEWOOD CENTENNIAL FILM FESTIVAL
Thurs., Oct. 8-Sun., Oct. 18 BERLIN TO BROADWAY
This musical revue celebrates composer Kurt Weill with songs spanning the cabarets of 1920s Berlin to the stages of Broadway. WHEN: Various show times WHERE: Virginia Samford Theatre
Fri., Oct. 9
JONAS BROTHERS The Jonas Brothers bring the Burning Up Tour All Over Again to Birmingham, revisiting hits from throughout their career. WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
Sat., Oct. 10-Sun., Oct. 11 FURNACE FEST
The popular music festival returns to historic Sloss Furnaces for two days of live performances and festival fun. WHEN: 9 a.m.-11 p.m. WHERE: Sloss Furnaces
Sun., Oct. 11
BOLT FOR BREAST CANCER The family friendly fundraiser features a timed 5K and one-mile Dolly Dash supporting local breast cancer research. WHEN: 1 p.m. WHERE: Crestline Field
Wed., Oct. 14-Sun., Oct. 25 SHOP SAVE & SHARE
Shop at participating retailers while supporting the Junior League of Birmingham during this annual shopping fundraiser benefiting programs throughout the community. WHEN: Various store hours WHERE: Participating Birmingham-area retailers Wed., Oct. 14
67th ANNUAL LINLY HEFLIN SCHOLARSHIP FASHION SHOW Enjoy an evening of fashion and philanthropy at the Linly Heflin Unit’s 67th annual Scholarship Fashion Show, supporting scholarships for Alabama women pursuing higher education. WHEN: 5:30 p.m. WHERE: The Club
Thurs., Oct. 15
HOMEWOOD CENTENNIAL GALA Celebrate Homewood’s centennial with a 1926-inspired evening featuring a red carpet welcome, live music, local history, memorabilia and a live auction benefiting Sims Garden. WHEN: 6 p.m. WHERE: Rosewood Hall and City Hall Plaza
Thurs., Oct. 15
BÉLA FLECK: MY BLUEGRASS HEART Béla Fleck and an ensemble of acclaimed musicians celebrate the roots of bluegrass while pushing the genre in new directions. WHEN: 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall
Thurs., Oct. 15
TOMMY MESA, CELLIST + OLGA KERN, PIANIST Acclaimed pianist Olga Kern joins rising-star cellist Tommy Mesa for an evening of classical music. WHEN:7:30-9:30 p.m. WHERE: Samford University Brock Recital Hall
Thurs., Oct. 15
34TH ANNUAL AMFIRST CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Hit the links for the annual AmFirst Charity Golf Tournament benefiting local organizations through the AmFirst Community First Campaign. WHEN: 9 a.m. WHERE: Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley
Thurs., Oct. 15
Sat., Oct. 17
HOMEWOOD CITYWIDE CENTENNIAL PICNIC This free event celebrating Homewood’s 100th anniversary will feature performances by the Homewood High School Patriot Marching Band, The Network and Nexus Show Choirs, Homewood Pops, performers from Homewood Theatre and a concert by Three on a String. Food trucks will be on site, and the night will end with a festive fireworks display. WHEN: 2-7 p.m. WHERE: Homewood Central Park
Sun., Oct. 18
BLACK VIOLIN Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin blends classical strings with hip-hop during its high-energy Be Free Tour. WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall
Fri., Oct. 23
TACOS FOR TRINITY
HAUNT THE HILLS
Come enjoy some Taco Mama action with live music by the Whistlebees and a silent auction. ≠Proceeds benefit Trinity Counseling. WHEN: 6 - 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Cahaba Brewing Company
Celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, games, inflatables and a movie to end the evening. WHEN: 4:30 p.m. WHERE: Wald Park OTMJ
22 • Thursday, October 1, 2026
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Birmingham Chamber Music Society ♦ 2026 – 2027 Concert Season Co-presented with the Davis Architects Series at Samford University’s School of the Arts
Mesa [has] musical intensity ... commanding in every detail. – New York Concert Review “strong, nuanced keyboard articulation ... razor-sharp technique”. – The New York Times
“strength and unanimity ... big, bold, almost orchestral performances.” – The Los Angeles Times
Kern brings … supreme technique both powerful and lyrical. – Albuquerque Journal
“engrossing … with a luminescent tranquillity [and] spine-tingling intensity.” – The New York Times
Tommy Mesa, cello Olga Kern, piano
Pacifica Quartet
Gilles Vonsattel, piano
Gryphon Trio
Brock Recital Hall Samford University Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 7:30 p.m.
Brock Recital Hall Samford University Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2027 7:30 p.m.
Brock Recital Hall Samford University Thursday, Feb. 4, 2027 7:30 p.m.
Brock Recital Hall Samford University Tuesday, Mar. 30, 2027 7:30 p.m.
Single Ticket ................................................................................... $25.00
To Purchase Tickets Scan this QR
Students with ID............................................................................ $10.00
Or go to – samfordwrightcenter.vivenushop.com
Season Tickets ............................................................................... $90.00
(Tickets may be purchased at the door)
HOUSEHOLD DROP-OFF
2026 Events
October 17
8-11:30 AM
Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: Camp Bessemer
3295 King St, Bessemer, 35023
Site 2: Camp Ketona 121 County Shop Rd, Birmingham, 35217 For more information call 205-325-8741 or scan QR code Your digital data is secure and will be destroyed during recycling at no additional cost.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
| SPORTS |
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • 23
FROM CHINA TO MOUNTAIN BROOK: SULLIVAN TODD FINDS SOMETHING SPECIAL AT HOME BY LOYD MCINTOSH PHOTO BY JORDAN WALD
A
t 17, Sullivan Todd has already lived a full volleyball life. She has won a national championship with her club team, worn the Team U.S.A. jersey at a world event in China and signed to play college volleyball at Mississippi State. This fall, the high school senior is doing something she hasn’t had a chance to do: play for Mountain Brook High School. Like many elite athletes in a handful of sports— soccer, baseball and volleyball in particular—college recruiting occurs at the club level, meaning many kids can’t play for their high schools due to conflicting schedules, obligations, and, in some cases, strict rules set by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (ASHAA). However, with her future secured, Todd decided to suit up for the Spartans in 2026, and it’s evident that she is having the time of her life. “It’s been super fun just because I love the aspect of getting to play for my school and wear that name across my jersey, especially playing in front of a big crowd,” says Todd shortly after a two-hour practice session. “It’s been really fun to have the whole school and my friends come and support our games, and it really helps the atmosphere in the gym.” Though she has competed all over the world, playing for her high school has been a special and personal experience. Todd, who started playing volleyball when she was nine years old, has been friends with many of the players for years. While parachuting onto the team as a senior could have been awkward, Todd says her teammates embraced her wholeheartedly. “Just having a team I see every day at school and in the hallway, we’re like, ‘it’s game day.’ So it’s been great having all the girls together, and everyone’s so sweet,” Todd says. “The two other seniors, Adele Moffatt and Sullivan Lell, I’ve been best friends with them since I was probably like five, so it was easy to kind of mesh into the team,” adds Todd. “They had been after me for a while, so I’m really glad I joined.” Todd is a highly regarded 5-10 setter and, despite having no school varsity experience, is listed as one of the top high school players in the state on several prep sports news outlets. The majority of her accomplishments and
accolades have come via her club team, Alabama Performance Volleyball Club (APVC). In June, Todd and her APVC teammates won the AAU Volleyball Girls Junior National Championship in the 18 and Under Club division held in Orlando, Florida. However, Todd’s biggest accomplishment occurred last summer as a member of the USA U18 National Team. Team USA competed in the ISF World School Volleyball Championship held July 1 through 10 in Shangluo, China. Todd was recruited for the team by head coach Terri Kaiser during a club tournament in Reno, Nevada, along with athletes from all over the nation. Competing in a tournament consisting of 62 teams from 29 countries, Team USA performed admirably, coming in fifth place. Todd says playing for her country was an unforgettable experience, and she gained valuable insight into high-level volleyball. “I loved getting to see that part of the world, especially with people I just met. The team bonded really well. We got really close very fast,” Todd says. “That international style of play was so different than anything I have seen, especially the Chinese team,” Todd adds. “The way they do everything is just so different and hard to read, but it was a really good challenge and very eye-opening.” Now wearing green and gold, Todd brings a wealth of experience to the Spartans
Sullivan Todd
volleyball team, one of Alabama’s most successful programs. Head Coach Mattie Gardner says she was excited and a bit surprised when Todd turned up for tryouts last spring. “Sullivan is a fantastic player, so it was obviously great news when she decided that for her senior year she wanted to play for her school this season,” says Gardner. “Of course, I had to give her a hard time, like, ‘hey, it’s about time you come play for your school. Better late than never.’” “I’m so excited for Sullivan to experience school ball because there’s just nothing like playing for your school, and the team has
Dancee Bottoms SouthAntique Pop-Up Sale Saturday Oct. 31st 9-4
hosted by Rich's Antiques 177 Lyons Rd Decatur, AL
*Some vendors may only take cash or check
welcomed her with open arms,” Gardner adds. “She has done such a good job of coming in very humbly and just wanting to be a part of the team and help in any way that she can.” As the 2026 high school season rolls along, Todd said she would love to lift the AHSAA state championship trophy at the end of the season with her friends and teammates. But as long as they perform at their highest level, Todd will consider her season a Spartan success. “Obviously, our goal is always to win state,” Todd says, “but I think it will be a win in our book if we become the best team that we can be.” OTMJ
SPORTS | OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL • OTMJ.COM | Thursday, October 1, 2026
TAKING COMMAND: THE EMERGENCE OF VESTAVIA HILLS’ CHARLIE TAAFFE BY LOYD MCINTOSH PHOTOS BY JORDAN WALD
H
ith the first half of the 2026 season in the books, one thing is perfectly clear: Vestavia Hills is a very good football team. As of this writing, the Rebels are 4-1 and have outscored their opponents 128-90 through their September 18 win over Spain Park, 30-7. The Alabama Sports Writers Association ranks the Rebels No. 4 in 6A and MaxPreps.com has them ranked No. 3 among all classifications. The Rebels roster is chock-full of talented athletes, but perhaps the biggest story of 2026 is the emergence of Vestavia Hills quarterback Charlie Taaffe. In 2025, Taaffe split time at quarterback with Price LaMaster, helping to lead the Rebels to an 8-3 record and a berth in the AHSAA playoffs. During his junior year, Taaffe threw for just over 1,300 yards and 10 touchdowns and ran for 662 yards and three touchdowns. His performance gave Head Coach Robert Evans and Offensive Coordinator Josh Franklin the confidence to put the ball in Taaffe’s hands full time. “This summer, both Coach Evans and Coach Franklin were telling me that if I do good, if I have a productive year, that we’ll go far,” says Taaffe. “That motivated me to go all in and be the best player for my team that I can be.” In 2026, Taaffe has been nothing short of spectacular. In his four games as the starter (he missed the loss to Thompson in Week 3 due to an injury), Taaffe has accounted for 1,142 yards of Vestavia Hills’ total offensive
Vestavia QB Charlie Taaffe makes it his business to know where all his recievers are.
production with 12 touchdowns in four games, an average of 285.5 yards and three touchdowns per game. He’s completed 45 of 63 passing attempts for a completion percentage of 71.4 percent, four touchdowns, a ridiculous 15.2 yards per completion and no interceptions. Taaffe is also the Rebels’ rushing leader gaining 458 yards on 63 carries, averaging 7.3 yards per carry and eight touchdowns. Clocked at 4.56 seconds in the 40-yard dash, Taaffe’s modus operandi last season was simple: run first. And with that kind of speed, why not? That’s what makes his development as a passer this fall all the more remarkable. “I’m feeling a lot more comfortable standing in the pocket,” Taaffe says, adding that the offense has “a lot of moving parts,” and credits offensive coordinator Franklin for helping him improve his mental and physical quarterback skills. “One of the biggest things is understanding the protections because last year, I knew the passing concepts, but the protection with the O-line, I didn’t really understand what everyone was doing,” Taaffe says. “But this
year I understand where people are going to be moving.” Last year, Taaffe says if his primary receiver was covered, he would typically tuck the ball under his arm and run. He and Franklin spent many hours over the summer breaking the offense down bit by bit, until the schemes became second nature. Now he has the ability to quickly pivot to his second and third read, knowing where his receivers and offensive linemen should be at any moment during the play. “Every day after practice over the summer, we would go over every moving part,” says Taaffe. “Before that we would just go over first read, second read, third read. Now, I know what every single person is doing.” Of course, it doesn’t hurt that there are some excellent receivers to throw to on the roster. Senior Luke Stubbs currently leads the receiver corps with 25 receptions for 320 yards, including an incredible diving catch for a touchdown during the Rebels 43-13 win over Oak Mountain on Friday, September 11. Other receiving leaders include Powell Curry with seven receptions for 211 yards,
for an impressive 31.6 yards per catch, and LaMaster with five catches for 97 yards. However, Taaffe says the receivers excel at the intangibles, the blue-collar skills and grunt work that don’t show up on the stat sheet. “They’ve taken their run blocking to the next level. They’re all in with the team and willing to just go in and block someone whenever their name is called,” Taaffe says. While there is still a lot of football left to be played this season, Taaffe is having the time of his life, and if everyone can stay healthy and continue to perform at an optimal level, he says the 2026 Rebels have a solid chance to send shockwaves throughout Alabama. “It’s been a blast, especially playing with people that I’ve grown up with,” says Taaffe. “We’re all seniors now, and we’re the leaders of the program. It’s been fun seeing everyone on the field together and seeing everyone succeed together.” Taaffe adds, “I think we can go all the way. We have a real chance to host a playoff game or two, which hasn’t been done (since 2013), so that would be awesome. We’re just going to keep working and, eventually, go all the way.” OTMJ