Mountain Brook Magazine, Winter 2023

MBHS PRINCIPAL CARRIE BUSBY • TAPAS AND TAPS: FUNDRAISING FOR SMILE-A-MILE • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

LEADING THE WAY MOUNTAIN BROOK EARNS ETC INSTITUTE AWARD

WINTER 2023 MountainBrookMagazine.com Volume Seven | Issue Four $4.95

PADDLE TO THE BEAT

THE 2023 MITCHELL’S PLACE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

TERRIFIC TERROIR EXPANDING MOUNTAIN BROOK’S WINE CULTURE

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FEATURES 46

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE DINING GUIDE A guide to some of the best local eateries around town.

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A HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE Reflecting on the city of Mountain Brook winning the ETC Institute’s “Leading the Way” Award.

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HIT THE ROAD

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY IN NAPA Whether you’ve been to Napa a dozen times, proper planning will ensure you’re able to experience the most of this singular hot spot.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season?

Look no further than the shops right around you.

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PHOTO BY KELSEA SCHAFER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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PHOTO BY UNTOLD IMAGERY

arts & culture

15 Too Pillows: Two Sisters’ Love for Unique Design 26 Read this Book: Rachel Owens’ Best Holiday Reads for Kids

schools & sports

27 Race Dragon Boats: Mitchell’s Place’s Annual Dragon Boat Festival 35 Five Questions For: Carrie Busby, Principal of MBHS

food & drink

37 Finch Fine Wines: Serving through “Sommeliering” 44 Five Questions For: Tori Krupa, Tapas and Taps

in every issue 4 Contributors 5 From the Editor 7 The Question 9 Instagram 11 The Guide 82 Chamber Connections 84 Out & About 94 Marketplace 96 My Mountain Brook

home & style

49 Simply Timeless: The Laney Family’s Award-winning Home

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MOUNTAIN BROOK

contributors

MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL

Anna Grace Moore Donald Mottern Barton Perkins Andrew Simonson Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

Milan Ballard James Culver Rachel Culver Untold Imagery Rachel Owens Blair Ramsey Christiana Roussel Kelsea Schafer Mountain Brook Schools Ashley Tiedt

DESIGN

Sydney Allen Jamie Dawkins Rowan Futrell Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Michaela Bankston Octavia Campbell Evann Campbell Kari George Rachel Henderson Rhett McCreight Lauren Morris Viridiana Romero Tori Montjoy Smith

ADMINISTRATION Mary Jo Eskridge Alec Etheredge Stacey Meadows Tim Prince Kayla Reeves Brittany Schofield Savana Tarwater

James Culver, Photographer

James lives in the Birmingham area with his wife, Rachel, a native of Homewood, and their three children, Callie, James III and John Michael.

James is a graduate of Auburn University and spent years in Atlanta working as a graphic designer, creative director and photographer. He specializes in event, real estate and portrait photography, and he can be found on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook at @jculvercreative and at jculver.com.

Daniel Dennis, Photographer

Daniel is the co-founder and co-owner of Untold Imagery. He’s been practicing photography for many years, but he started pursuing it professionally in 2020. Daniel enjoys being able to compose an image in his mind and seeing it come to fruition through perfect lighting and composition. His primary focuses with photography are travel, food and branding. To learn more about Untold Imagery, follow the business on Instagram at @untold_imagery or visit untoldimagery.com.

Blair Ramsey, Photographer

Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair and her husband, John, have two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography. com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.

Christiana Roussel, Writer

Christiana Roussel is a Birmingham-based, award-winning food, travel and lifestyle writer. Naturally curious, she relishes any opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. She is a proud member of the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier as well as the Industry Advisory Board of Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management. Her other interests include bourbon, bacon, a great wardrobe capsule, upland hunting, pork rinds, pilates and power walks that include four-leaf clovers and feathers.

Follow her online at @christiana.roussel.

Mountain Brook Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Mountain Brook Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Mountain Brook Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Mountain Brook Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Mountain Brook, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit MountainBookMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting MountainBrookMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@mountainbrookmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

6 Winter 2023

from the editor

A

ON THE COVER

A Taste of Terroir

Finch Fine Wines is playing a vital role in shaping Birmingham’s wine culture.

Photo by Untold Imagery Design by Connor Martin-Lively

Around August each year, the meme of “Mariah Carey defrosting” resurfaces, and my friends and I have a good laugh about her famous intro in “All I Want For Christmas is You.” The holidays seem to be approaching quicker each year, and while I love decorating the tree and the rich scent of gingerbread in the oven, I never seem ready for all the traditions holidays often bring.

My dad made his heavenly debut in October 2020, and the holidays just haven’t been the same without him. So, I decided this year would be different. Instead of harping on all that I’m missing out on, I would look for new traditions, new things to celebrate.

Although it wasn’t a new holiday tradition, getting to interview Birmingham-based non-profit Mitchell’s Place about its 2023 Dragon Boat Festival was definitely a new topic for me. The 2023 Dragon Boat Festival helped raise more than $81,000 for Mitchell’s Place, which was founded by Mountain Brook residents Allen and Nancy Meisler in 2005.

The festival featured 11 teams of at least 20 people each in 46-foot-long boats decorated like dragons.

Each team also had a drummer positioned in the front of the boat, guiding paddlers to row to the beat. As it turns out, dragon boat racing is actually not a new phenomenon–just one new to me. According to Dynamic Dragon Boat Racing’s website, racedragonboats.com, this sport originated in the fourth century B.C. in China.

Beloved Chinese patriot and poet Qu Yuan committed suicide in a ritual protest, and his people, although unsuccessful in preventing his death, chose to commemorate his legacy by hosting a boat festival. So, what’s dragon boat racing got to do with trying new things? Well, what once was such a tragic day is now a tradition that even hundreds of years later many choose to partake in to honor Qu Yuan’s legacy.

Traditions only live on if people are willing to remember the importance of those who have passed on. On a deeper level, traditions are only special if celebrated with love in our hearts. What this interview reminded me is that part of moving on is learning to do things without those you hold dear.

Although I may not have gotten the chance to race this year, racing in the dragon boat festival is for sure on my bucket list next year, as are some new holiday traditions, too. I recently learned some families will hide a pickle in their Christmas trees for children to find. I have to say, that’s another new one for me.

As the holiday season approaches, I may not be ready for the void I fear I will always feel, but I can say with confidence that I look forward to new traditions with my family and reading all of your fun, family traditions, too.

Happy holidays,

annagrace.moore@mountainbrookmagazine.com MountainBrookMagazine.com 7

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“ ” THE QUESTION

What is your favorite Mountain Brook event?

Mystics of MB!!

The tree lighting in Lane Parke

My favorite event is the holiday parade, which winds through Mountain Brook Village. It’s always such a fun way to celebrate the season, see friends and enjoy the lively parade atmosphere!

The Halloween parade!

-Maggie Vickers Schmidt

-Emily Jensen

Tapas and Taps at Lane Parke

-Suzanna Wasserman Edwards

The Holiday Parade!

Having all the floats ride right through the center of Mountain Brook Village just makes it feel so magical. It truly looks straight out of a Hallmark movie!

-Shelby Weir

-Calee Yoe

-Anna Robinson

The Mystics of Mtn. Brook Halloween Parade!

-Casey Wright Horn

The ‘Student Showcase’ each April is my favorite event.

Students line the street between the fire station and library in Crestline Village and share what they have learned throughout the year.

-William Galloway

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@mountainbrookmag

Tag us in your Mountain Brook photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

@marinith3foodie Grain bowls are becoming a new favorite of mine! There is something about them that really makes my mouth water. A mixture of veggies, cheese, grains and a dressing on top, so delicious! @porch.mb the truffled Farro bowl is delicious and something all foodies need to add to their must try list!

@kelsea.schafer.photos Mountain Brook High School played their first regular season game against Vestavia Hills High School, on Thursday, August 24th at Spartan Stadium. The Spartans lost to the Rebels, but held their head high, inspiring everyone around them, even the future players that will step foot on the field at Spartan Stadium.

@shopheezies Thank you for voting Heezie’s Mountain Brook’s Best Gift Shop, Best Customer Service, Best New Business, Best Specialty Store, and Best Store for Home Furnishings/Decor!

@slicecrestline Just chillin on the patio with Penny!

Come and join us for #HappyHour and enjoy this gorgeous weather!

Then stay for dinner! To be featured on our social media, make sure you tag us, @slicecrestline

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THE GUIDE

THE 13TH ANNUAL LEGACY LEAGUE CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR DEC. 7 VIEWINGS FROM 10 A.M.-2 P.M.; 4 P.M.-8 P.M. Five beautifully-appointed Homes in Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Homewood Presented by ARC Realty, the Samford University Legacy League’s 2023 Christmas Home Tour will feature five uniquely beautiful homes in Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Homewood with holiday treats and pop-up shoppes at the Samford President’s Home. The Legacy League is a philanthropic organization that provides life-changing scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances. Advance tickets are required; sales will open in early November.

Visit samford.edu/legacyleague to learn more.

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THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN Sept. 14-Nov. 1 The Red Mountain Garden Club’s Online-Only Greenery Sale Pickups at The Birmingham Botanical Gardens Oct. 20 Mountain Brook High School’s Homecoming Game & Parade Oct. 31 Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade Crestline Village

DEC. 3

Mountain Brook Holiday Parade 3-5 P.M. Mountain Brook Village One of Mountain Brook’s most beloved events, the Mountain Brook Holiday Parade, is back again this year and will feature a parade of floats, fire trucks, bands, choral groups, dancers and of course, Santa Claus, himself, traveling through through Mountain Brook Village. To learn more information or inquire about having your float in the parade, email chamber@mtnbrookchamber.org.

NOV. 4

Mountain Brook Fraternal Order of Police 5K Pig Run and One-Mile Fun Run 8 A.M. 3785 Jackson Boulevard The annual Mountain Brook Fraternal Order of Police races are back again this year. The 5K race begins at 8 a.m., and the one-mile fun run begins at 8:30 a.m. The 5K and fun run begins at Crestline Elementary School.

Dogs are welcome, too! Register for this event at runsignup.com.

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Nov. 1-5 Christmas Village Festival The BJCC Nov. 2 Downtown Homewood Holiday Open House The Shops of Downtown Homewood Nov. 4-5 Moss Rock Festival The Hoover Metropolitan Complex Nov. 5 Lil Uzi Vert Avondale Brewing Company Nov. 9 Turkey Trot 5K & One-Mile Fun Run Heardmont Park Nov. 10 Veterans Day Nov. 12 Alabama Bridal & Wedding Expo The BJCC Nov. 15-18 Market Noel The Finley Center Nov. 19 Magic City Half Marathon Regions Field

THE GUIDE Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Nov. 28 Mountain Brook High School SGA Blood Drive Mountain Brook High School Dec. 5 Mountain Brook High School Band & Choir Concerts Mountain Brook High School Dec. 8-9 Spartan Invitational Mountain Brook High School Dec. 9 “Home for the Holidays” Presented by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra The BJCC Dec. 9 The 2023 Jingle Bell Run Veteran’s Park on Valleydale Road

SELECT DATES

Holiday Open Houses Brought to patrons by the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce, the villages’ holiday open houses will feature festive camaraderie, holiday discounts, light refreshments and more. Come shop at these events to support local businesses near you. uCrestline Village Holiday Open House - Nov. 16 uMountain Brook Village Holiday Open House - Nov. 30 uEnglish Village Holiday Open House - Dec. 7

NOV. 18

Miss Olympian Pageant Mountain Brook High School The annual Miss Olympian Pageant is back! Come out to enjoy the talents of Mountain Brook High School students, who will compete to represent their school and community. The contestants will participate in an interview, a dance number and an evening walk before the winner is crowned. Follow the organization on Instagram at @missolympianpageant for updates.

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&CULTURE

ARTS

A TALE OF TOO PILLOWS The origin story behind one of Mountain Brook’s staple design companies, Too Pillows.

BY ASHLEY WHITTLE TIEDT PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY MountainBrookMagazine.com 17

I

If one has ever tried to decorate a home, she knows that finding a theme that both fits her space and falls in her price range is a tall order. The store doesn’t have the colors she needs, the fabric isn’t quite right and above all, she just doesn’t feel a connection with anything she sees.

If one has experienced these feelings, sisters Crawford Bumgarner and Sullins Phelan can relate.

“We were both renovating houses, and neither of us could find pillows that we loved,” Sullins says.

“Our company happened because there were no unique pillows on the market, and we took it upon ourselves to buy some fabric and put them together.”

Crawford shares the same sentiment, saying, “It started as an idea, and then just all of a sudden, it blossomed.”

Soon after, their friends saw the pillows they created and asked for help for their own homes. On a whim, the two sisters decided to display at the Antiques and Garden Show, and the trajectory of this informal friends-and-family consulting business changed into an actual business.

“Too Pillows” was born, and the sisters have been curating living spaces across Mountain Brook ever since. While working at the Antiques and Garden Show, the dynamic duo met local artist Kitty White.

“She stencils things like walls, and she has done fabrics; so, we commissioned her to work on our pillows,” Sullins says.

Crawford says they cut the fabric, and Kitty paints over it, creating beautiful designs for the pillows.

After the show, business took off, and the sisters found themselves preparing pillow designs for stores in Mountain Brook and Homewood, eventually branching out into Nashville as well.

Additionally, they work with various interior designers to curate unique pillows for specific projects.

“They’ll call us and say, ‘I’m working on a project.

Do you have some pillows that would work with this space?’ We’ll pull some fabrics. Sometimes, we have them already made. So, it’s an easy step for designers to come to us,” Sullins says.

If one isn’t sure what she’s looking for, she can just wait until something she likes pops up on the “Too Pillow” Instagram page.

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“[Clients] typically can send us a picture of the room or give us some colors, and we can put some fabrics together,” Sullins says. “We can sometimes work from pictures, but typically, it requires us to meet. This way, we can lay it out, show it to them and then they can approve it.”

The sisters will post a batch of pillows to the page and watch the frenzy begin as prospective buyers send private messages, hoping to grab one of the coveted releases. If one is lucky enough to snag a limited-edition pillow, she can meet Sullins and Crawford at their studio to pick it up.

If the pillow “doesn’t work,” one doesn’t need to worry. A client can always bring it back and trade it out, too.

“Sometimes, you just need to see the pillow in the space to know whether or not it will actually work,” Crawford says. “We allow our clientele to take a few pillows home and see what works and then bring back the ones that don’t work in their space.”

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be good for the sisters’ small business. Sullins says while everybody was quarantining, a lot of their clients became tired of their furniture and décor and wanted to update their living spaces.

“Pillows are an easy way to update your space

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TOO CUTE, TWO SISTERS, TOO PILLOWS The standard “Too Pillow” is 24 inches-long by 24 inches-wide and starts around $225. Painted pieces begin around $325. Prices vary by size and design.

All of the pillows have a down insert and are packed tightly, so they sit up nicely.

without buying a whole new set of furniture,” Sullins says.

Crawford adds that this newfound business gave them something to focus on in their free time.

Creating the pillows is what the sisters really love to do. They are happy to work with designers on a custom order, but they feel they do their best work when they are able to let their creative juices flow.

“We like to get in there and dream it up,” Sullins says. “We have someone that sews them, and we have Kitty who paints some. So, our job is putting it all together.”

The sisters’ studio is at Sullins’ house, so it’s not unusual to find her out there at all hours of the day or night, piecing fabrics together and dreaming of new concepts.

The studio is packed floor-to-ceiling with fabrics—every shade of white and gray that one can imagine. Those colors, along with black, make up the base, and then comes the patterns and the colors.

“We just get in there and play,” Sullins says. “You have to be in the mood. I’ll get on a roll, and then all of a sudden, my creativity has left me.”

Sullins and Crawford make a trip to Atlanta roughly every other month in search of the most unique fabrics. That’s where they get a lot of ideas for their pillows as well.

They’ll begin to brainstorm before they’ve even made a purchase. Additionally, they prefer to buy fabrics that only have a few yards left.

“We pride ourselves on creating unique pieces for our clients,” 22 Winter 2023

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Crawford says. “We don’t want to grab the fabric that everyone else is using. We want to provide something you can’t find anywhere else.”

In addition to each fabric being a unique find, Crawford says they try to source rich colors, too.

“They end up being beautiful fabrics,” she says. “If we find a beautiful cream or a beautiful charcoal, we’ll buy a lot of it. But if it’s a pattern, we don’t buy a lot because we want them to be awesome.”

The sisters say while they have had a few opportunities to take their business to the next level, they are content with how things are going right now.

“This little business keeps us busy enough,” Crawford says.

“We love what we do, and when we say we’re busy, we mean it in a fun way. We both love fabric, and we love that we get to create new and different things every day.”

Whether it’s a bedroom, guestroom, kid’s room or living room, “Too Pillows” has something for every space in one’s home. From two sisters who pride themselves on creating “too pillows” that are too cute, they say the best part of business is experiencing every day with each other, and what a wonderful business model that is.

Customers can visit toopillows.com for more information or follow Sullins and Crawford’s work on Instagram at @toopillows.

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ARTS & CULTURE

READ THIS BOOK

Holiday Reads for Kids Recommendations from

Rachel Owens Children’s Librarian at the O’Neal Library

Rachel Owens has worked in the O’Neal Library Children’s Department for 14 years. She does weekly story times for babies and lower elementary students, as well as a monthly book club for emerging readers and their parents.

Rachel and her husband also conduct hours and hours of library book quality control with their own littles, Isaac and Etta. Here, Rachel recommends her five favorite, holiday-themed reads for families with young children.

So Much Snow

By Hyunmin Park In this wordless treat of a picture book, two friends find themselves snowed-in and make an adventurous and hilarious day of it. With only two colors and a clever use of white space, part of the fun of this story is the “Aha” moments readers get from figuring out each illustration—and then the “Haha” moments that follow. Elementary schoolers will be eager to share the visual puzzle.

May Your Life Be Deliciosa!

By Michael Genhart Nothing signifies the holiday season quite like a story of food and family. Each Christmas Eve, folks from Rosie’s extended family gather in one kitchen to make tamales. This year, Rosie’s Mexican abuela is walking her step-by-step through the process of making not just delicious tamales, but also a delicious life. Share this cozy and scrumptious picture book with your preschoolers.

Oh, Sal!

By Kevin Henkes As if an annoying older brother, an attention-stealing new baby, who doesn’t even have a name yet, and a visit from an unfunny uncle weren’t trials enough, Sal realizes she’s lost the best gift Santa’s ever given her. In a chapter book that’s a perfect bedtime read-aloud for all ages, Sal’s oh-so-recognizable worries and irritations are enfolded in the warmth and tenderness of a loving family.

Snow Birds

By Norm Feuti The latest installment in the giggle-inducing early chapter series, Beak and Ally, has the two titular pals surprised to see their quiet winter swamp overrun by loud, partying birds from farther north. When Beak’s delight turns into wearied frustration, he and Ally work together to solve the problem of the rude snow birds. Wrap up this funny, odd-couple graphic novel for readers new to chapters.

Hanukkah Hamster

By Michelle Markel Edgar the cab driver is so exhausted from a busy holiday season that he ends one day with a nap in the back seat.

When he awakes, he discovers that a passenger has left a hamster in the cab. Until the pet is claimed, Edgar cares for it at home and names it Chickpea. The hamster turns out to be a sweet friend during Edgar’s lonely Hanukkah celebration, but what will happen when the critter’s owner wants it back? Preschoolers and elementary kids will fall for this beautiful picture book of friendship and kindness.

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SCHOOL

&SPORTS

TO THE BEAT

How a community in need flourishes through the help of “paddling hands.”

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY JAMES & RACHEL CULVER & CONTRIBUTED MountainBrookMagazine.com 29

T

The ties that bind us originate from a common thread: community. This natural yearning to belong connects people of all different walks of life and can only strengthen within such a community, which is most clearly defined as people united against a common front or working together to accomplish a goal.

This phenomenon is often replayed throughout history, and the most successful communities have capitalized on uniting different people with unique strengths because together, they are better than one. This resounding theme is one that Birminghambased non-profit Mitchell’s Place holds true.

Founded in August 2005 by Mountain Brook residents Allen and Nancy Meisler, Mitchell’s Place provides research-based services and educational

30 Winter 2023

programs for children with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities and their families. On Saturday, Aug. 19 at East Lake Park, Mitchell’s Place hosted its third annual dragon boat festival, involving 11 teams of nearly 21 different people each and hundreds of others to raise money and awareness for its programs.

The idea to fundraise through such grueling teamwork developed as both an engaging and distinct way to advance Mitchell’s Place’s efforts to provide services “to unlock each child’s potential.”

A FOUNDER’S STORY “When my son Mitchell was born, everything seemed to be just fine,” Nancy says. “By the time he

was 18 months, his language was not developing.

We got him evaluated for speech therapy when he was 2–that would’ve been 1997. Our insurance didn’t even cover speech therapy in 1997.”

Although Nancy noticed developmental delays in Mitchell when he was a toddler, medical professionals never diagnosed him with autism until he was in grade school. Allen and Nancy spent almost the first 10 years of Mitchell’s life bouncing from therapist to therapist, practice to practice, searching for the best services for him.

Paying out-of-pocket for Mitchell’s speech therapy and traveling hundreds of miles just to see medical professionals, Allen and Nancy decided they needed to step up and create the community and resources they so longed for their own son.

“When [Mitchell] was between 8 and 9, we decided we needed to do something about this and started talking to psychologists and special ed teachers,” Nancy says. “We decided to open a center for high-functioning kids with autism because they were falling through the cracks.”

Allen and Nancy filed for their non-profit license in 2004, and by February 2005, their only three classrooms’ registration lists had completely filled up. Mitchell’s Place, named after their loving

inspiration, opened its doors in August of that year and has since served more than 2,500 families over the last 18 years.

The non-profit began with only 20 employees and now has a team of more than 90 different employees working together to aid their students in need. With services such as applied behavior analysis, occupational therapy, dyslexia evaluations and

Located in downtown Homewood!

Let us help you put your best foot forward! @shoeflyhomewood

MountainBrookMagazine.com 31

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Amazing happens

treatment, speech therapy, psychiatry, psychology, feeding therapy, social skills training, consultations, advocacy and more, Mitchell’s Place officially can say it has almost everything.

THE ORIGINS OF DRAGON BOAT RACING More than 2,300 years ago during the fourth century B.C., Chinese politics underwent the “Warring States” period–often described as a treacherous time when rulers betrayed one another for political gains. With shifting alliances, rulers often found it difficult to receive unbiased counsel and were not trusting of even some of their most loyal subjects.

One such subject, Chinese patriot Qu Yuan, served as a counselor to his king during this time. According to Dynamic Dragon Boat Racing’s website, racedragonboats.com, “Qu Yuan championed political reform and truth as essential to a healthy state.”

Fate took a turn when his king heeded the counsel of some discreditable counselors, and Qu Yuan was banished, leaving him to wander the rest of his days in despair. Although he was heartbroken, Qu Yuan eloquently depicted his vehement passion for his people and apprehension for his king’s reign in his poetry.

Upon learning of his kingdom being overthrown by a rival, Qu Yuan committed suicide by throwing himself into the Mei Lo River. His people loved him, and they rowed out to try and save him, slapping the water with their paddles to ward off fish and alleged evil spirits in the water.

Years later, dragon boat races became a fun, symbolic way to honor Qu Yuan’s legacy on the anniversary of his death each year. The early ‘80s saw the rise in popularity of this sport in the United States.

INVOLVING COMMUNITY Throughout its existence, Mitchell’s Place has strived to bridge the gap between children in need and resources ready and able to service such needs. One bridging aspect is the organization’s unique sense of belonging–an understanding that dreams do not come to fruition overnight; Instead, they are built on the backs of people working together.

When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries taking place today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures – benefitting not only our patients and families, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.

ChildrensAL •org

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H • B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3 205-638-9100

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It’s this foundation that led Mitchell’s Place to partner with Dynamic Dragon Boat Racing to create a highly-anticipated, community-wide dragon boat festival, featuring numerous citizens from across the Southeast competing for “the greater good.”

Of all the team-building and fundraising activities, dragon boat racing was chosen because of its uniqueness.

“Our first Dragon Boat Race and Festival was held in 2019, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we could not hold it again until 2022, making 2023 our third annual festival,” says Julia Riedel, associate director of advancement.

THE FESTIVAL OF FEATS Back for the third year in a row, the 2023 Mitchell’s Place Dragon Boat Race and Festival featured nearly 400 rowers in all, competing in 46-foot-long dragon boats for the gold. Each dragon boat was decorated with colorful scales and a speciallydesigned “head and tail of the dragon.”

“The Dragon Boat Festival was so much fun and a great way to expose the community to the incredible work being done by Mitchell’s Place,” says Baylee Clark, a Mitchell’s Place Junior Board member. “My company, Strong Automotive, sponsored a team, and I loved getting to tell my coworkers about all the ways that Mitchell’s Place unlocks potential in children.”

“Row Hard or Row Home,” a team from Brasfield and Gorrie General Contractors, took home the gold for the third year in a row with another Brasfield and Gorrie team, “In-Sync,” snagging second place. “Heart to Handle,” a team from Encompass Health, took home the bronze.

In addition to the races, the festival also featured a kids’ zone complete with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, food trucks, a vendor market and more. One highlight of the MountainBrookMagazine.com 35

lives, but now, they get to see the fruit of their labor whenever a child reaches a new milestone within their doors.

“We will always have to raise money because we can’t charge enough to cover our costs with all of the professionals we have to hire,” Nancy says. “To keep our standard as high as it is, we have to have as many people as we have, and we’re determined to do whatever it takes to keep up with this demand.”

The 2023 Mitchell’s Place Dragon Boat Race and LOOKING FORWARD Festival helped raise $81,713 for the program’s So, what does a Chinese poet from a millennia initiatives. Their success, Nancy says, can be attributed ago and two modern-day parents of a son with to the ties of fellowship their organization has created with the Birmingham community and beyond. autism agree upon? Community–that’s what.

These relationships encourage children and Qu Yuan advocated for the strength in numbers, in unity. Although his king failed him, he never lost families, who are sometimes low on hope, to believe sight of his dream for a united front and desire to in the power of miracles. It’s these miracles that enrich the purpose of Mitchell’s Place and those serve his people.

Similarly, Allen and Nancy Meisler’s desire to who work to carry on its legacy.

If community is defined as the ties that bind us serve children with autism and developmental disabilities fueled their initiative to create such a together, let it be known that community is also the community where needs are met, not dismissed. catalyst for positive change.

Those interested in learning more about Mitchell’s Place was conceptualized nearly 28 years ago during a “warring period” in the Meislers’ own Mitchell’s Place can visit mitchells-place.com. festival was the “Bloody Mary” contest.

“Getting to spend time on the water and making Bloody Mary’s was the best way to beat the August heat,” Baylee says. “Our team is already talking about ways to improve our time and bring home the gold next year, but we all know the real winners are the Mitchell’s Place staff, who work every day to provide opportunities to some amazing kids.”

36 Winter 2023

SCHOOL & SPORTS

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Carrie Busby

Mountain Brook High School Principal PHOTO BY MOUNTAIN BROOK SCHOOLS

In August 2023, Carrie Busby started in her new role as principal of Mountain Brook High School, following Philip Holley’s retirement. Carrie attended the University of Alabama, where she earned her B.S. in secondary education.

Later on, she attended the University of Montevallo, where she earned her master’s in educational administration.

Carrie started out teaching 12th-grade English at Hoover High School, and in 2013, she became the administrator to seniors at the school. In 2018, she came to work at MBHS as an assistant principal. Already a seasoned educator and administrator, Carrie is both well equipped and excited about working at MBHS. Here, she offers her thoughts to incoming students and her faculty and staff for the 2023-24 school year.

Tell our readers your thoughts about becoming the principal of MBHS. Becoming the MBHS principal has included a range of reactions including initial excitement, humility and then hitting-the-ground running by serving the school and community. The first day of school was a very anticipated, happy day for me! I’m most excited about serving our school and community in different ways.

Expanding my responsibilities allows me to work with everyone, and I’m both thrilled and challenged by that.

need to provide engaging instruction drove our local planning for the opening of school. As I have shared with our faculty and staff, our focus has centered on how our goals and values in combination with our practices and relationships work together toward achieving the desired outcomes for our students, faculty, families and community. With this mindset as the focus, we are unified in our collective efforts in beginning a successful school year.

Which school event(s) are you most looking forward to and why?

For me, graduation is probably the most special event at MBHS. Celebrating this achievement with seniors and their families is super special. Having a front row seat to students closing the chapters of high school while encouraging them to go confidently into their future is very fulfilling.

What would you like our readers to know about you?

What is your favorite part of your job?

Outside of MBHS, my family is the How do you as the principal plan to What makes your job worth getting up center of my thoughts, efforts and prayers.

My husband and I have been married for help lead the teachers, faculty and staff to come to work every day?

This question is easy to answer. All of 27 years, and we have two adult children into having another successful school the people at MBHS are my favorite part of who have graduated from college. Our son year?

The return of our faculty and staff has the job. I am drawn to the high school and daughter-in-law live right outside of been a big focus for me this summer. world and this season of a young person’s Birmingham, and our daughter lives in Having been an administrator at MBHS life. Supporting students during this roller Florida. I am really proud of them and probably talk about them too much. has advantages for us all, so I had a coaster of life is very rewarding to me.

Meanwhile, my husband and I are enjoying jumpstart in knowing our strengths, needs the empty nest era and getting to the lake and goals. Knowing the culture and climate when we can. of MBHS and what our teachers desire and MountainBrookMagazine.com 37

38 Winter 2023

&DRINK

FOOD

A TASTE OF TERROIR Finch Fine Wines is playing a vital role in shaping Birmingham’s wine culture.

BY MILAN BALLARD PHOTOS BY UNTOLD IMAGERY MountainBrookMagazine.com 39

R

Red, white, rosé or even orange, an individual’s personal wine preference is as unique as the occasions they celebrate with it. From festive events to casual weekends, the urge to acquire that perfect bottle of wine often drives consumers to wine shops for their expertise and advice on the best selection.

No matter the question, occasion or celebration, Finch Fine Wines stands ready as a boutique wine shop to meet a customer’s every need.

As the latest wine shop to open its doors in Mountain Brook, Finch Fine Wines has quickly become a gem in Birmingham’s wine scene, offering a unique experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Since its establishment in

38 Winter 2023

November 2019, the boutique wine shop has become a go-to for those seeking exceptional wines and a memorable journey into the world of viticulture.

With its carefully curated selection, commitment to customer education and innovative approach to wine retail, Finch Fine Wines is carving its own niche in the industry.

Growing up in Mountain Brook, Ed Finch, founder of Finch Fine Wines, did not foresee himself entering the world of retail as a shop owner.

Through his commitment to quality, his own love for wine and his belief that “wine makes every experience a little bit more memorable,” Ed

embarked on the journey to create a truly unique wine shop. Unlike conventional wine shops, Finch Fine Wines stands out for its distinct approach to curating the perfect collection for customers to peruse.

Instead of flooding their shelves with an overwhelming variety of wines, the team puts emphasis on quality over quantity. Each bottle is carefully selected, tasted and evaluated before joining the inventory.

The intention is to offer the best wine at every price point, ensuring that customers are presented with a concise selection of exceptional choices, no matter their budget.

Instead of bombarding customers with hundreds of wines, this approach simplifies the decisionmaking process for customers while showcasing lesser-known producers and classic styles.

“Rather than stock 20 pinots at $20, we may

have one or two of the best in the market,” says Nate Dauphin, Finch Fine Wines General Manager and Sommelier.

However, despite the smaller selection, the shop keeps the inventory exciting.

Their assortment, which includes wines from more than 20 different countries, is rotated monthly, if not weekly, so customers always have the chance to try something new. While the instore collection remains meticulously curated, customers can explore an extensive online inventory of more than 3,000 bottles, with a staggering selection of 10,000 bottles on the horizon.

At Finch Fine Wines, the belief prevails that a higher price tag doesn’t always equate to a superior wine, although in-store, customers can find wines of all price ranges, spanning from $12 up to $700 per bottle.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 39

As the wine industry constantly evolves, Finch Fine Wines keeps a finger on the pulse of these changes. One prominent trend, according to Nate, is the preference for dry wines with minimal sugar content.

“Most people don’t like the idea of sweet wine anymore,” he says.

This aligns with the shop’s dedication to offering wines that emphasize balance and sophistication. The shift toward European wines, mainly from France and Italy, is another noticeable trend.

These wines often showcase a more nuanced and balanced character, compared to the boldness often found in California wines. A critical factor in Finch Fine Wines’ success is the expertise and experience that Nate offers as a certified sommelier.

His journey through the world of wine has taken him to Turkey and Greece, among other countries. With a scientific background in biomedical engineering, Nate brings a unique perspective to his role, particularly when it comes to food and wine pairings, emphasizing classic wines from renowned regions that exhibit a strong sense of terroir.

His dedication to discovering and promoting new and diverse wines ensures that the shop’s inventory remains fresh and exciting.

In addition to a beautiful selection of highly curated wines, Finch Fine Wines goes beyond the traditional wine shop experience by offering a range of exciting services. The shop hosts free, in-store tastings every other Friday, giving customers the opportunity to explore new varietals, discover new wineries and ask any questions they may have along the way.

On the off-weeks, Nate hosts a virtual wine tasting. As with many businesses trying to survive during the pandemic, Finch Fine Wines was required to be on their toes and innovative to stay afloat.

The introduction of bi-weekly virtual tastings during the 42 Winter 2023

pandemic was a successful virtual experiment that has become a mainstay. The shop selects a few wines for patrons to pick up at their convenience ahead of the online event. Customers from around the country and beyond participate in the curated tastings from the comfort of their homes, further solidifying the shop’s commitment to education and accessibility.

“We have actually even had people join from abroad,” Nate says.

In the realm of wine and its many complexities, Finch Fine Wines is committed to unraveling common misconceptions in the wine industry.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not sulfites or tannins that are often responsible for adverse reactions that some customers experience with certain red wines. Histamines, with their genetic triggers, are the main culprit.

Nate demystifies this phenomenon by likening it to the reaction one might have to black tea without cream or sugar. The shop’s emphasis on educating its customers goes beyond the conventional, debunking myths and offering insights that empower wine novices and enthusiasts to make informed choices.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 43

Finch Fine Wines’ commitment to enhancing its customers’ wine experiences includes the introduction of an online shop. In addition to the option to browse their selection of wine and wine-related gifts, the interactive website includes a modern chat feature designed to provide personalized wine-pairing recommendations.

Customers have taken full advantage of this innovative tool, even sending in photos of restaurant menus while dining out to receive expert advice on the best wine selections to complement their meals.

This virtual engagement highlights the shop’s dedication to being more than just a retail space—it’s a resource for a personal, curated and enriched wine journey.

Beyond the virtual realm, Finch Fine Wines offers a range of tailored experiences. Private wine tastings, which can be held both onsite and offsite according to customer preference, provide an intimate setting to explore a selection of exquisite wines.

These tastings create an avenue for guests to delve into the nuances of each wine, guided by the expertise of the shop’s sommelier. The shop also extends its offerings to catered wine services for special occasions, including but not limited to weddings, office parties or events throughout the holiday season.

This personalized touch ensures that the joy of wine is seamlessly integrated into cherished moments, making Finch Fine Wines a dynamic presence in both the local community and the broader world of wine enthusiasts. The team’s commitment to community involvement is exemplified through their sponsorship 44 Winter 2023

of events such as The Friends of the Birmingham Botanical Garden’s “Rosé in the Roses.”

For those embarking on their wine journey, Finch Fine Wines provides a roadmap to navigate the diverse world of wines. For customers new to wine, Nate recommends starting with sweet white wines.

“Light, refreshing white wines from Spain or Portugal would be a great start,” Nate says.

As their palates evolve, customers can experiment with their preferences, trying new varietals which become a foundation for an exciting journey of discovery.

The approach here is not just about wine, but it is also about the individual’s preferences and experiences. By taking cues from how one takes their coffee, Nate uses a unique method to discover a customer’s personal taste profile.

“You can tell a lot by asking people how they take their coffee,” Nate says.

Whether they prefer it black, with sugar and cream or prefer not to drink coffee at all, this simple-yetunexpected inquiry offers valuable insights into the customer’s palate. Armed with this knowledge, Nate can curate a selection that aligns wines with personal preferences, turning every sip into an enlightening experience.

As Finch Fine Wines continues to flourish, the shop remains dedicated to its mission of providing a highly tailored and enjoyable wine experience.

Looking ahead, the shop envisions becoming a hub for wine education, offering more formal classes and workshops to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of wine.

By embracing change, maintaining a focus on quality and providing memorable experiences, Finch Fine Wines is raising the bar for wine shops everywhere. Whether one is a seasoned oenophile or is just dipping his toes into the world of wine, Finch Fine Wines welcomes everyone to embark on a journey of flavors, experiences and discoveries.

Customers can visit finchfinewines.com for more information.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 45

FOOD & DRINK

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Tori Krupa

Marketing Associate at Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Victoria “Tori” Krupa graduated from Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama, in 2017, majoring in business administration. After graduating, she lived and worked in Montgomery for five years before getting married and moving to Birmingham in 2022. In April 2023, she joined the team at Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors “CSREA” as a marketing associate and will oversee the 2023 Tapas and Taps event, whose date will be announced in winter 2023. Tapas and Taps will feature more than 10 different food and beverage vendors, live music and a silent auction benefiting Smile-A-Mile. Here, Tori provides insight on just how impactful this “foodie” event is to the local community.

Tell our readers about the founding of Tapas and Taps.

Tapas and Taps was founded in 2021 as a way to incorporate local restaurants and businesses into a community-wide event for patrons to experience some of the best food and beverages of Mountain Brook and beyond. Originally, Tapas and Taps was started as an effort to get CSREA involved in the Mountain Brook community. What better way than to partner with incredible organizations on one of the properties we manage? Every year, Tapas and Taps fundraises for a local nonprofit, and this year’s charity partnership is with Smile-A-Mile. We use this event as both a way to foster fellowship between local eateries and to give back to those in need, too.

What have patrons enjoyed most about Tapas and Taps in recent years?

The event has grown so much over the

46 Winter 2023

last two years, especially due to the major growth we have seen at Lane Parke. Event attendees have the opportunity each year to taste all that Lane Parke has to offer, while giving back to our charity partnership, too. We always have such a great selection of Birmingham breweries and the best live music as well. It’s one of our favorite events at Lane Parke.

What do you think will be some of the event’s attendees’ favorite aspects of Tapas and Taps this year?

The plethora of food and beverage vendors will likely be a crowd favorite, but lots of attendees will also enjoy the silent auction and live music, too. The auction’s proceeds benefit Smile-A-Mile.

profit that provides hope and funding for children with cancer and their families.

According to smileamile.com, “Smile-AMile’s mission is to provide hope, healing of the spirit and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey.” They provide year-round programming to children and families through their Hospital Outreach Program at Children’s of Alabama, summer camp sessions, family retreats, events, regional programs and so much more. The work they do is so important to the community, and we’re so happy that our event will benefit them this year.

How is Tapas and Taps so important in fostering fellowship?

Tapas and Taps creates an inviting and communal atmosphere, where the Tell our readers about Tapas and Taps’ Birmingham community can connect over a shared appreciation for culinary charity partnership, Smile-A-Mile.

Tapas and Taps is fundraising for Smile- experiences and local crafted brews, all A-Mile, which is a Birmingham-based non- while supporting a wonderful cause.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 47

Homewood + Mountain Brook | Special Advertising Section

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48 Winter 2023

Soho Social Some say we’re the place to be, some say they

can’t get enough of our food and others say our $1 beer is the best thing that ever happened to them. We’ll let you try us out and decide for yourself what your favorite part of Soho Social is. Our house is your house, Birmingham.

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Davenport’s Pizza is the best in the South, possibly the North and maybe the world! Join us at our new Vestavia Hills location or original Mountain Brook location for award-winning pizza, fresh garden salad and the coldest beer in town.

Our party room is available for birthday parties, family celebrations, sports team events and more. We are family-owned and operated and have been since 1964!

At Urban Cookhouse, we believe three things turn a simple meal into an unforgettable experience: delicious, made-from-scratch food; ingredients from local farms; and impeccable service. Each recipe in our family-owned restaurant contains fruits and veggies from neighboring farms, so every bite is fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re craving our signature Cookhouse Wrap, our mouthwatering chicken salad and fruit plate or Sherry Snyder’s famous brown sugar brownies, every item on our menu is made with you in mind.

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Soho Social’s sister restaurant, which is right across the plaza, Social Taco has a menu full of authentic Mexican flavors and delicious cocktails. The patio vibes are unmatched. Come try us out!

Trust us, you’ll leave satisfied.

Chili and soups have arrived at family-owned Troup’s Pizza. Smoked brisket chili is a regular staple for the fall and winter months, while soups rotate weekly. As always, they are proud to offer fresh, delicious and unpretentious pizza, sandwiches and salads.

Chef Terrill Brazelton and his wife, Ashley, express their passion and commitment to locally-sourced foods by supporting local farmers.

Troup’s Pizza is open for lunch Tuesday-Saturday and dinner every night. Catering is always available.

Social Taco

Troup’s Pizza

MountainBrookMagazine.com 49

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HOME

TIMELESS AND TRUE This Crestline home’s intentional design elevates the quality of living for those within.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY & CONTRIBUTED MountainBrookMagazine.com 51

A

At the annual Southeast Designers and Architect of the Year Awards, the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center named Chris Reebals of Christopher Architecture and Interiors the “Architect of the Year.” Chris is nationally renowned for traditional and timeless designs, and this Crestline home–belonging to Scott and Dr. Mary Catherine Laney–is one home that helped him win this prestigious title.

Originally from Arab, Alabama, Scott and Mary Catherine are high school sweethearts, having dated at Arab High School. After moving to Birmingham for school and their careers, Scott and Mary Catherine settled in Homewood for eight years before moving to Mountain Brook.

Mary Catherine says she loved the walkable community in Crestline and how everyone on the block just “felt like family.”

When asked why they chose to build with CAI, Mary Catherine says, “To be honest, we had never built before, and I’d seen a lot of projects that Christopher Architecture and Interiors had done. I needed that professionalism and guidance that I knew they could provide. Chris is also a wonderful

52 Winter 2023

person. I wanted somebody that wasn’t just a great architect, but also a person of integrity.”

Chris, along with architect Ria Neill, interior designer Joanna Goodman and Davis Construction Services worked together to create the Laney family’s dream home. They began by tearing down the original, one-story property in February 2019, and by April 2020, they had completely rebuilt the now two-story house, expanding the square footage, too.

Mary Catherine also credits interior decorator Lisbeth Cease for helping her create her home’s “elevated but lived-in” aesthetic.

Chris and the team at CAI believe that every home they design should have one main purpose: to enhance a family’s quality of life through intentional design. Although every one of their builds are intrinsically innate, they never fail to reflect the purpose within each home–that is, providing a haven for each growing family.

To learn more information about Christopher Architecture and Interiors, visit christopherai. com.

Foyer Mary Catherine requested a traditional, two-story staircase complete with a grand chandelier to complement the foyer’s details upon entry.

This oil portrait is by Mary Tucker Southerland.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 53

Living Room This room is the heart of the home. One of Mary Catherine’s favorite pieces of furniture is the den’s coffee table, which is from Century.

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54 Winter 2023

Kitchen A unique stylistic choice, the double islands in the kitchen allow Mary Catherine to entertain lots of friends and family all at once. Ria also designed a center aisle between the two islands to connect the stove and the sink for easy cooking and prep work.

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Each of the children’s portraits are

by Leon Loard Oil Portraits.

Dining Room The dining room overlooks the front lawn, and the traditional, tall windows let in an exuberant amount of natural light–the perfect touch to a stately room.

The mahogany dining room table and chairs paired with the crystal chandelier above elevate the “traditional and timeless” aura of the home.

56 Winter 2023

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ROM

Mary Catherine credits contactor Chris Hamm with Hamm’s Custom Cabinetry for his detailed work in creating all of the cabinets in the house.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 57

Master Bedroom Scott and Mary Catherine’s headboard was custom-made by King Cotton Fabrics. Katherine Cole sewed all of the linens for each of the bedrooms.

58 Winter 2023

BEHIND THE SCENES Architect - Ria Neill, Christopher Architecture and Interiors

Builder - Davis Construction Services

Interior Designer - Joanna Goodman, Christopher Architecture and Interiors Interior Decorator - Lisbeth Cease Cabinetry - Chris Hamm, Hamm Custom Cabinetry

Hardware - Brandino Brass

Kitchen Details - Fixtures and Finishes Kitchen Island & Powder Room Marble - Cottage Supply

Playroom Scott and Mary Catherine have three children: Anna Scott, 12; Will, 8; and Whitt, 5. Mary Catherine loves to show off her children’s artwork, so she framed many of their paintings all around the playroom’s walls.

Kitchen Chandeliers - Visual Comfort Family Portraits - Leon Loard Oil

Portraits & Mary Tucker Southerland Bedroom Linens - Katherine Cole, King Cotton Fabrics

Exterior Lighting - Bevolo

MountainBrookMagazine.com 59

Whitt’s Room Whitt loves animals and may like to be a veterinarian one day, so his room is filled with jungle and forest animals.

Anna Scott’s Room Anna Scott has been playing tennis for eight years, beginning when she was 4 years old. She trains with the Birmingham Tennis Academy and competes nationally.

60 Winter 2023

A History of

Excellence Reflecting on the city of Mountain Brook winning the ETC Institute’s “Leading the Way” Award.

By Ashley Whittle Tiedt | Photos by Kelsea Schafer MountainBrookMagazine.com 61

Ask anyone who’s lived in Mountain Brook for more than a month, and they’ll tell you what a special place it is.

Mountain Brook is a small town, nestled in by a major metropolitan area, with rolling hills and beautiful southern charm.

Time moves a little slower, and life is a little happier in Mountain Brook. That’s the way residents like it.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 census, close to 22,500 people live in the city.

Because of where the community is located, City Manager Sam Gaston says it won’t get much bigger.

With all its charm and beauty, it should not come as a surprise that the precious city has once again 62 Winter 2023

received the ETC Institute’s “Leading the Way Award.”

THE WHO Mountain Brook was developed in 1929 by real estate businessman Robert Jemison. It is estimated that more than 92-percent of the city is under tree cover—one of the highest in the nation.

“Mountain Brook has a very wonderful sense of community,” Gaston says. “We’ve got our three original commercial villages. We’ve added more commercial real estate, but we’re still a family-

centric community. Robert Jemison’s vision for the city continues to live on.”

THE WHAT The ETC Institute was founded in 1982 as a way to help local government organizations gather data from residents in an effort to move the community forward. Based in Olathe, Kansas, the company surveys the residents of hundreds of cities throughout the nation.

Mountain Brook has historically performed very well in these surveys. The ETC Institute’s website, etcinstitute.com, reports that the organization has surveyed more than 2 million people in 1,000 cities completed online in addition to the copy you receive since 2010. in the mail.”

THE WHEN

THE WHERE

Each year the city identifies 2,000 residents to survey.

“The survey is very detailed,” Gaston says. “It asks questions about the responsiveness of city employees. It asks about library services and really any other services you can think of. There are more than 60 questions asked in the survey. It can be

The ETC Institute sends surveys to the residents, and once the surveys are completed, they compile the data into a summary to give to the city. In the report, 100-percent of respondents said that Mountain Brook was an excellent or a good place to live, and 99-percent said that Mountain Brook is an excellent or good place to raise children.

MountainBrookMagazine.com 63

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64 Winter 2023

City officials are quick to say that the reason they continue to receive such high marks is because of the residents, the love and the commitment they feel for their home.

THE WHY Community members love Mountain Brook for a lot of reasons, but one of the most common is the Mountain Brook Schools system. The U.S. News and World Report recently rated Mountain Brook High School as the second-best high school in the state.

“The school system is the main draw,” Gaston says.

“Everyone wants their child to be in a good school system, but they also want to live in a safe community. We have a very safe community with a low crime rate.”

Having a safe and inviting community starts with the city employees, and this is where Sam Gaston really shines. He sits down with every new employee and explains what is special about the city and what’s expected of city staff.

“I give them information on our community and the city government here,” he says. “We try to set the standard from day one.”

According to Gaston, it’s the day-to-day employees who make the city shine. They are the ones who make the community so wonderful.

Based on the surveys, the constituents agree with Gaston, too.

“When I talk to these new employees, I let them know how much our residents appreciate them,” Gaston says. “It’s important to tell folks on their first day of work but also to repeatedly tell them that the community they serve also appreciates them and is grateful for the work that they do.”

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Laser Lunch and Learn FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20

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Hosted by our Aesthetic and Laser Team

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205.877.9773 | @villagedermatology | villagedermatology.net 66 Winter 2023

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The ability to enjoy the great outdoors is another draw to the city.

“We’ve got 46 miles of sidewalks and walking trails,” Gaston says. “Within the next year and a half, we plan to have 49 miles.

We’ve linked all of our churches, commercial areas, schools and parks. We’re adding more and more, so we’re excited about those. It’s been one of the best things that we’ve done.”

The sidewalks are great for families who love to get out and walk and meet their neighbors. Promoting community involvement was one of the goals of the city’s sidewalk projects.

In a city so close, what does a controversial project in Mountain Brook look like? Street lights.

“A lot of people really like when we put up street lights,” Gaston says. “They feel a sense of safety, and it allows them to stay out a little later in the evening. Others see them as a privacy issue.”

What no one will argue about, however, is the real estate investments the city is making, or the renovation of the athletic complex. While sometimes residents tend to stay in the city’s limits, they also invest in the greater Birmingham area as well.

“The people of Mountain Brook give back,” Gaston says. “They realize they’re part of the greater Birmingham community.

Mountain Brook is not an island by itself. We’re very protective of our own community, but we also realize the importance of the whole. Our residents give back, they are engaged and they’re involved in helping others, too.”

THE HOW As a city government, Mountain Brook will never rest on its laurels.

“We’re dedicated to excellence,” Gaston says. “We are a group of individuals who are striving for excellence and realize that achieving it is a process.”

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The city won’t stop working to serve the community, even if they achieve a perfect score from the ETC Institute in all facets. City officials understand that the mission will never be complete.

There is always work to be done, areas of the city to update and new projects to dream up.

“Achieving excellence is a team effort,” Gaston

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says. “It takes the city government, the residents, the school system, the chamber, the mayor and the city employees. We’re all working together to make this community a place to live and play for generations to come.”

To learn more about the ETC Institute, visit etcinstitute.com.

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HIT THE ROAD

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EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY IN NAPA

By Christiana Roussel | Photos by Visit Napa Valley & Contributed

Whether you’ve been to Napa a dozen times or this Northern California destination is just now rising to the top of your travel bucket list, proper planning will ensure you’re able to experience the most of this singular hot spot.

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HIT THE ROAD

BACKGROUND Napa Valley is one of those rare and wondrous regions where the climate, soil and topography—often referred to as ‘terroir’— meld to foster the ideal environment for growing outstanding grapes. These grapes are then painstakingly and lovingly converted into wine, making this some of the most covetable farmland in the country. At its core, Napa Valley is a farming community.

Agriculturally, Napa Valley was classified as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1981, as California’s first AVA. This designation establishes defined growing areas which reflect regional-specific terroir. Within the Napa Valley AVA, there are 16 distinct—or ‘nested’—AVAs with names you’ll surely recognize: Stags Leap, Atlas Peak, Rutherford and St. Helena. Relaxed, convivial, teeming with pride and eager to share the bounty of their home, locals welcome visitors year-round to experience their life’s work.

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO With such a wealth of things to do and see, sip and taste, planning a trip to Napa can feel a little overwhelming. You want to do it all!

Enlisting the help of a dedicated and experienced travel advisor ensures you spend less time in the car and more time immersed in Napa culture. Birmingham resident Anne Tilson Varner founded Portiera Travel as a way to share her love of the region.

“I’ve spent the past two decades traveling to Napa, and in that time, I have gotten to know and become friends with so many wonderful people,” Anne says. “Locals are the greatest asset in planning Portiera excursions, and I am grateful for these cultivated relationships.”

Her office boasts bookshelves of binders created for friends and clients, each with well-timed itineraries and lists of not-to-bemissed hotspots. Anne says three or four days in Napa is a great place to begin your journey. portieratravel.com

Photo contributed by Portiera Travel

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HIT THE ROAD

HIT THE ROAD The length of Napa Valley runs roughly 30 miles, from downtown Napa to Calistoga on the North end; in between, you’ll find the towns of St. Helena and Yountville. Each town definitely has its own vibe and feel. In downtown Napa, trace your way along the Napa River to The Oxbow Public Market, which shows off the best of this agricultural region and is a must-do. Pop into Gott’s Roadside for an epic burger before you hit your afternoon wineries. Yountville is as picture-postcardperfect as you can imagine (and home to Thomas Keller’s Michelin-starred The French Laundry restaurant), while St. Helena is a shopper’s dream (La Bohème and Christopher Hill Gallery are two favorites).

and burrata on toast. Make sure you find the hidden entrance to the downstairs pub for a clubby vibe. Serious culinary enthusiasts will want to pop in to the Culinary Institute of America for a tour and a nosh. If spas are your thing, then head straight to geothermal hot springs-centric Calistoga, where founder Samuel Brannan modeled the entire town on the hot springs of Saratoga, New York. The mud and mineral springs here are known to have a therapeutic effect like no other. Earn that massage with a bike ride to Old Faithful Geyser of California.

Still not sure where to begin in planning your trip? We asked Anne to put together a sample itinerary for readers, with notable places to If you’re feeling peckish, plan a stop at Goose stay, wineries to visit and her favorite & Gander for some chicharrones or mushroom restaurants:

South Napa

Resort: Stanly Ranch, an Auberge Resort Property (Budget Alternative: Andaz Napa) Tasting: Hudson Ranch (amazing Chardonnays; beautiful property) Lunch: Farm at Carneros Resort Tasting: Darioush Winery (interesting architecture and history) Dinner: Scala Osteria

Mid Napa Valley

Hotel: Poetry Inn, a luxurious B&B perched above Silverado Trail. (Budget Alternative: The Estate Yountville) Tasting: David Arthur Vineyards (high above Pritchard Hill with spectacular views) Lunch: Brix Restaurant in the Garden

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Tasting: Staglin Family Vineyards (philanthropic family and where the 1998 version of “The Parent Trap” was filmed) Dinner: RH Restaurant Yountville (Alternative: if you want a casual dinner, head towards Ciccio, newly reopened)

North Napa - St. Helena / Calistoga

Resort: Meadowood Napa Valley (Budget Alternative: The Bungalows at Calistoga eclectic, warm fun) Tasting: Heritage School Vineyards (interesting history and amazing property) Lunch: Sam’s Social Club Tasting: Schramsberg (founded 1862, famous for bubbles and more)

Dinner: Brasswood Bar & Kitchen (look around for some of the local vintner rock stars who are known to haunt this place) Anne is quick to note that while many of the larger wineries accept walk-ins for tastings, the smaller boutique wineries request or require reservations.

“Often times, guests are meeting the vintner themselves, touring their family’s vineyard, with a private tour of the operations,” Anne says. “These are intimate experiences, best planned well in advance.”

NAPA FOR THE NON-DRINKERS You don’t have to be an oenophile or imbibe daily to enjoy Napa Valley—there are plenty of activities here that don’t require stemmed glassware.

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BIKING—Napa Valley Vine Trail—this 12.5-mile trail that runs from South Napa to Yountville will eventually become a 47-mile walking and biking trail system. Rent ebikes from Napa Valley eBikes.

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HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES—Combine your bike adventure with a hot air balloon ride at Napa Valley Bike Tours, or book an escape with Napa Valley Aloft.

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MUSEUMS & PERFORMING ARTS—Wine isn’t the only culture here. The di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art merits a visit, while viewing the sculptures of Napa and Yountville beckon in the afternoon. The notable Rail Arts District (RAD) features two miles of interactive public art, easily viewed on foot or by bicycle.

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KAYAK or SUP on the Napa River

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HIKING—There are more than two dozen trails in the Napa Valley area alone—pick up a local guide or plan your route in advance using the Trail finder feature of visitnapavalley.com. You can sort your stroll by level of difficulty, length or vista, and if you happen to time your stay with the full moon, join up with the folks at Napa Valley Land Trust for their scheduled nighttime hike.

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SPA DAY—There are more than a dozen spas in the area, many of which offer the signature Calistoga mud bath treatment that will have you channeling your inner zen in no time.

NAPA COMES TO BIRMINGHAM TUMTUM TREE FOUNDATION

As America’s longest-running wine auction supporting children’s charities, TumTum Tree Foundation has attracted Napa Valley winemaker luminaries to Birmingham for more than 30 years. What began in Frank and Pardis Stitt’s beloved Bottega dining room has grown into something altogether life-changing.

From that first year where $25,000 was raised for Magic Moments, TumTum Tree Foundation has grown, now boasting more than $16 million in donations, positively impacting the lives of children engaged in services provided by The Red Barn, Mitchell’s Place, Camp Smile-a-Mile, UAB Arts in Medicine and several others. The 34th Annual Grand Tasting and Live Auction Dinner will take place on Friday, Nov. 3. tumtumtreefoundation.org

Photo by TumTum Tree Foundation

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING

holiday

GIF T GUIDE 3 1 2

1. Julie Vos Tudor Statement Necklace Our showstopping pendant features cushion cut, iridescent clear crystals suspended from a handmade, 24K gold plate adjustable link chain. $325. Brombergs. 2800 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 871-3276. brombergs.com

2. Bunny Portrait Plates Hunt Slonem’s famous bunnies, butterflies and much, much more come to life on his artfully designed accessories and home goods. Available in a rainbow of colors. $60. Heezie’s. 81 Church St, Suite 101, Mountain Brook, AL 35213.

(205) 874-6278. heezies.com

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3. Rosehip Oil and Gua Sha Gift Set Indulge your skin with the Eminence Organics Rosehip Oil and Gua Sha Gift Set. This duo is designed to deliver a relaxing, home facial massage that leaves skin feeling soft, plump and invigorated. $118. Retreat Day Spa. 3920 Crosshaven Dr, Suite 100, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 834-8349. theretreatbham.com

4. Kiki Dress-Queen City The Kiki Dress in our Queen City print comes from an exclusive collaboration with Chan Art. It has a figure-flattering appeal with a fun design that will make you stand out. $318. Dukes Clothier. 53 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 739-2244. dukesclothier.com

5. Aqua Oyster Plate with Gold Detailing This Oyster Plate is also available in cobalt, white and pink. Oyster Plates are perfect for serving raw oysters, table setting or wall decor. These are a traditional favorite in New Orleans at some of the best restaurants. $58. Interiors by Kathy Harris. 3157 Cahaba Heights Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 970-4161. facebook.com/interiorsbykathyharris

6. Feridies Snack Mix and Peanuts Feridies are a perfect stocking stuffer, dirty Santa gift or holiday gathering snack. They are available in a variety of flavors, ranging from salted peanuts to spicy guac cocktail crunch. $8-$10.50. The Cook Store. 2841 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 879-5277. thecookstoremtnbrook.com

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7. Barocco Ruby Glasses by Vietri The artful etchings, stately shapes and rich color of the Barocco Collection by Vietri honor Italy’s 17th-century Baroque period and bring a gracious grandeur to your gatherings. Double old fashioned $34. Wine $36. Table Matters. 2402 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 879-0125. table-matters.com

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8. Fairway & Greene Quarter Zip Pullover The Caves Quarter Zip Pullover is a great gift for the holidays from Bandwagon! This custom, VH pullover is made from a Wicking/Polyester/Spandex Double Jersey blend that is comfortable on and off the course. $142. Bandwagon Sports. 3120 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 639-1571. bandwagonsports.com

9. SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum This next-generation, skin rejuvenating formula improves the appearance of coarse wrinkles, fine lines, skin tone and texture. It’s the only growth factor product proven to address sagging skin.

Apply it in the a.m. and p.m. after cleansing! Where to apply: Apply to your entire face (neck and chest, too)! $295. Village Dermatology. 2900 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 877-9773. villagedermatology.net

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10. Okara Color Shampoo and Conditioner and Naturia Dry Shampoo With natural Okara and Hamamelis extracts, this gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and nourishing conditioner for color-treated hair enhances vibrancy, extends longevity and instantly restores softness and shine. The plant-based, invisible-finish dry shampoo cleanses, refreshes and adds volume between washes. $34-$38. Oak Street Hair Group.

125 Oak St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213.

(205) 879-3222. oakstreethairgroup.com

11. Variety of Jewelry and Accessories On top of our high-end consignment selection, Consigned Design offers a large variety of new jewelry for any style, budget and occasion. Visit us for thousands of jewelry pieces for your holiday parties or gifting needs this holiday season. Gift certificates are available. Consigned Design. 72 Fulton Springs Rd, Suite A, Alabaster, AL 35007.

(205) 664-7540. consigned.design

12. Cocktail Bar Tool Roll Up

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This bar tool set by Oak and Olive includes six stainless steel bar tools. The vegan leather roll-up case makes for easy storage or travel. Liven up your next holiday party or gift by being an aspiring mixologist. $68. Crestline Pharmacy. 60 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 871-0317. facebook.com/crestlinepharmacy

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13. Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment The “it girl” moisturizer for all skin types.

Supports healthier-looking skin, resulting in improved appearance of skin radiance, suppleness and smoothness. Enjoy heavy hydration without the weight. $150. Gunn Dermatology. 32 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213; 391 Rele St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213.

(205) 415-7536. gunndermatology.com

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14. Custom Kitchen Towels Bring or email us your favorite keepsake recipes or photos, and we will reproduce them on a flour sack, kitchen towel or one of our many personalized gifts! These are a great way to bring these memories to life. Available next day. $21. Fun Stuff. 3370 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. (205) 823-3688. funstuffgifts.com

15. Local Framed Prints Our towns, our teams and our schools hold special places in our hearts. Give them a special place to shine with one of our framed black and white or watercolor prints by local artist Jennifer Coggin and Messy Heart Studio. 8x10 $40.

11x14 $50. Rocky Ridge Drug Co. 3346 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. (205) 259-7100. rockyridgedrugco.com

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16. Diamond Cross Pendants Show off the reason for the season with these lovely diamond and gold pendants. Available in 1/8-1 carat in yellow, white or rose gold. $500-$2,800. Cummings Jewelry Design. 3166 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243.

(205) 298-9144. cummingsjewelrydesign.com

17. Deco Soirée Two-Tone 18K GoldPlated Diamond Watch

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She will love this iconic Deco Soirée timepiece featuring hand-set sapphires, citrines, garnets, diopsides, amethysts and 12 brilliant diamonds.

Whimsy and class collide to form this truly unique and unforgettable gift. $2,695. Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers. 330 Rele St., Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 371-7060. bartonclay.com

18. Anti-aging Light Therapy Devices The latest FDA CLEARED, total complexion, anti-aging light therapy device to treat lines, wrinkles and clear acne with the DRx FaceWare Pro Masque LED. Experience a total complexion transformation. The FDA CLEARED DRx EyeCare Max Pro is the next-generation LED eye treatment that provides a larger coverage area and more lights to better treat crow’s feet, under-eye area and elevens. $455. $199.

Woodhouse Spa. 125 Summit Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35243. (205) 905-7676. birmingham.woodhousespas.com

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19. Custom Birmingham Ornament Each Huras Brothers ornament is individually mouthblown, silvered and hand-painted, using traditional methods from the 1800s. In this special edition, Santa’s convertible has been customized for Birmingham!

Available only at Table Matters. $58. Table Matters.

2402 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223.

(205) 879-0125. table-matters.com

20. Jingle Bell, Nutcracker, Snowflake and Tree Wine Stopper

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Celebrate life’s most meaningful moments while commemorating favorite holiday memories along the way with our new, gorgeous wine stoppers! They are perfect for gifting, using them yourself or just as decor all season long! $19. Clover + Bee. 3150 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 972-1414. shopcloverandbee.com

21. Pajama Pants GiGi’s carries fun, printed soft fleece pajama shorts that all girls adore! Each style of pants has different, vibrant patterns and are the perfect gift for any occasion. $36. GiGi’s. 3140 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 593-4586. gigisbham.com

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22. My Favorite Sports Bag The Lili Pad has plenty of gift items that are perfect for any occasion, including this adorable plush sports bag that is safe for your little athlete. $36. The Lili Pad. 3138 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243.

(205) 298-1811. lilipadbham.com

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23. Gift Certificates The gift certificates can be whatever amount the purchaser deems desirable and does not include tax, alcohol or gratuity. The gift certificate is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Satterfield’s Restaurant. 3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 969-9690. satterfieldsrestaurant.com

24. Hatley Waterproof Set Puddles, beware! This waterproof set by Hatley is the perfect gift for rainy days. The rainboots are sherpalined and slip resistant. The umbrella and jacket feature fun raindrops that change color when wet. Boots $60.

Umbrella $24. Jacket $75. Little Soles. 4232 Dolly Ridge Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243.

(205) 970-6990. facebook.com/littlesoleschildrensshoes

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25. Handblown Glass Flutes and Glasses Handblown glass rainbow champagne flutes with gold accents are perfect for any gift occasion.

You can combine them with our fabulous, vibrant, lacquer-coated sugar plum wine glasses for a festive look. Flutes $19.95. Wine $16.95. The Blue Willow. 3930 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 968-0909. thebluewillow.com

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26. Bitzee Experience a world of digital pets in the palm of your hand! Introducing Bitzee, the digital pet you can touch and feel! Bitzee interactive pets respond to swipes, tilts and touch with sounds and reactions! $29.99. Learning Express Toys & Gifts.

3132 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243.

(205) 970-9710. learningexpress.com/bham

27. K’lani Hair Tie/Bracelet These affordable and adorable bracelet stacks also work as the best hair ties. Girls ages 8-88 love them! Lose the boring hair tie on your wrists, and grab K’lani today! $22.95. Secondhand Rose. 4200 Oakview Ln, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 970-7997. secondhandroseal.com

28. Fuzzy Footies

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Fuzzy Footies are a fun, soft way to keep your feet warm. They are great for traveling and lounging about, whether you’re in a hotel room or your living room. Featuring slip resistant bottoms, Fuzzy Footies have several colors to choose from. $12.99. Flip Flops and What Nots. 4 ​ 137 White Oak Drive, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 967-7429. flipflopsandwhatnots.com

29. Gift Certificates The gift certificates can be whatever amount the purchaser deems desirable and does not include tax, alcohol or gratuity. The gift certificate is valid for one year from the date of purchase. El ZunZún.

4105 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243.

(205) 791-7711. el-zunzun.com

30. 14K Yellow Gold Engravable Pendant Toggle Necklace Southeastern Jewelers offers jewelry for any style.

Give the gift of timeless elegance with our 14K yellow gold engravable pendant toggle necklace.

This piece combines elegance and personalization, making it the perfect gift this holiday season. $505. Southeastern Jewelers. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Suite 111, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 980-9030. southeasternjewelers.net

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31. Elegant Faux Fur Vest Explore unmatched elegance with our women’s faux fur vests. From timeless classics to trendsetting designs, choose from three distinctive styles to elevate your wardrobe with top-tier warmth and style. Baker Lamps & Linens. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Suite 115, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 981-3330. bakerlampsandlinens.com

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32. Bella Cavo Stackable Bracelets Lightweight, stackable and easy to wear, the Bella Cavo Collection fits any fashion taste and occasion.

With simulated diamonds and precious stones, they are available in silver, gold and rose gold tones.

They create a stylish, versatile look when worn independently and when layered together. $100-$400.

M&M Jewelers. 440 Inverness Cors, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 991-0593. mmjewelersbirmingham.com

33. Award-winning Skincare Products Achieve maximum results with a comprehensive collection of Revision Skincare products. This ultimate ritual targets all visible signs of aging and protects against further damage to uncover younger, healthierlooking skin. Receive 20-percent off when you purchase three Revision products. This offer expires on Dec. 21. $40-$225. Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery. 2700 US-280, Suite 300 W, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 930-9595. drrousso.com

34. R+Co BLEU Shampoo and Conditioner

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R+Co BLEU is the couture-caliber capsule collection from R+Co. Combining modernity and style with breakthrough innovations in formulation, sustainability and iconic packaging design, this new range brings glamour, sophistication and unparalleled quality to daily hair care. $59. French and Tower Salon. 2904 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 538-5926. frenchandtowerssalonco.com

35. Nest Candles Mantooth Interiors is your home for all Nest collections and fragrances. Our large selection of holiday scents make the perfect gift for friends and family. $49.

Mantooth Interiors. 2813 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-5474. mantoothinteriors.com

36. Cookies For one cookie or hundreds, Cookie Fix will sweeten your holidays with special holiday flavors and traditional favorites. Cookies from $2.75. Cookie Fix. 2854 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209.

(205) 582-2623. cookiefix.com

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37. Game Day Sweatshirts Slightly cropped with a relaxed fit, these cozy gameday sweatshirts make the perfect gift this holiday season. $60. Home Accents.

2750 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124.

(205) 621-2039. homeaccentsonline.com

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38. Earrings One pair of 18K Yellow Gold Diamond and Emerald Earrings. There are two, square cut emeralds with a 5.50 ct. total weight and 96 brilliant cut diamonds with a 2.50 ct. total weight. $15,000. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles. 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 874-1044. wallaceburke.com

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39. Campo DE’ Fiori Aged Terra Cotta For everyday use and for most plant choices, our wide assortment of classic pots make the perfect gift. The terra cotta pots are covered in dormant moss. Simply add water and watch your lush moss grow. Prices start as low as $28. Sweet Pea Garden. 2829 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209.

(205) 879-3839. sweetpeasgardenshop.com

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40. Ansen Glass Vase, Tall This tall, glass vase has blue and gold tones.

Through each collection, we hone in on our strongest passion–finding the perfect balance between timeless antiques and updated classics. Our designs are driven by an aspiration towards unrivaled quality at a sound cost. Each piece is sourced and handpicked from our many partnerships with artisans and manufacturers across the globe. The pieces that comprise our brand promise to spark conversations and create a simple, yet bold magic within a home. Large $54.99. Small $44.99. The Prickly Pear. 2645 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124.

(205) 471-7250. thepricklypearonline.com

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41. Magna-Tiles Dino World XL Something tropic-cool has arrived! The award-winning Dino World XL set is larger than life with oversized tropical-themed tiles, all six of the Magna-Tiles dinosaurs and new-to-the-world magnetic trees. Extra large, open-ended and imaginative play potential awaits! $139.99. Homewood Toy and Hobby. 2830 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-3986. homewoodtoy-hobby.com

42. Chanel coaster, little books of... candle box set These Chanel coasters, coffee table books and candles make the perfect holiday decorations for your tablescapes. Chanel coaster $18. Little books of... $16.95. Candle box set $42. At Home Furnishings. 2921 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-3510. shopathomefurnishings.com

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43. Oliver Thomas 24 + 7 Weekender Duffle This is the perfect, machine washable, lightweight travel partner with enough pockets and compartments to provide ultimate organization. The stay-together strap helps secure the shoulder straps, keeping them on your shoulder where they belong. Unless you choose to wear the bag as a crossbody, use the detachable, webbed strap for a total hands-free option. $175. ShoeFly. 2823 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 870-7131. instagram.com/shoeflyhomewood

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44. EMU Stinger Micro Platform Chestnut The EMU Stinger Micro Platforms are Australian sheepskin boots. These are sheepskin-lined mini boots with durable rubber outsoles and molded heel cups. $169. ShoeFly. 2823 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 870-7131. instagram.com/shoeflyhomewood

45. 2024 Jayco Pinnacle RV 2024 Jayco RV–exclusive fully loaded Pinnacle. All it needs is a big red bow! Come tour your new RV at Burton Campers, your locally owned Jayco dealership. You can always be certain with Burton! Burton Campers. 320 Hwy 304, Calera, AL 35040. (205) 668-0075. burtoncampers.com

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46. Gift Box

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Delightfully scented, plant-based soaps and skincare products that are handmade daily in our local shops are wonderful gifts! Our artisan soap bars, bath bombs, shower oils, body butters, body scrubs, laundry soaps, scent boosters and home fragrances all smell wonderful. $5-$59.

Buff City Soap. Multiple locations. See ad for details. buffcitysoap.com

47. Kids Clothing

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Discover stylish children’s clothing and all your kids’ needs at unbeatable prices. Once Upon A Child Hoover is your one-stop shop, specializing in reselling gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear in sizes preemie to 18/20. Join our rewards program and earn points every time you shop! Once Upon A Child. 3718 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216. (205) 341-7384. onceuponachild.com/locations/hoover-al

48. Valmont and Knesko Skincare Valmont Prime 24-hour Cream’s energizing complex stimulates cell vitality and hydrates the surface of the skin.

Melting in an instant, it leaves an imperceptible, protective veil, loaded with benefits. Knesko Diamond Radiance Collagen Face Masks are infused with real diamonds for bright, energized, radiant skin. Say “hello” to hydrated skin and an ultra-relaxing, spa-level facial experience. $155-$240. Renaissance Ross Bridge. 4000 Grand Ave, Birmingham, AL 35226. (205) 916-7677. rossbridgeresort.com

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Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce C O N N E C T I O N S

Ribbon Cuttings

New Member Spotlight CB&S Bank Graceful Aging Mae Davis Interiors

Ousler’s Sandwiches in Lane Parke, June 22

Onward Reserve, July 11

Snoozy’s Kids 35th Anniversary, Aug. 4

Village Dermatology 15th Anniversary, Aug. 22

The Exercise Coach Condado Tacos Hill Media Productions, LLC Ellie Mental Health Ultra Motorcars Stretch Zone South Mountain Dental Care Idyllo Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors Equitable Advisors

Join us!

101 HOYT LANE 84 Winter 2023

MTN. BROOK, ALABAMA 35213

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August Quarterly Luncheon

Mountain Brook Village Holiday Open House

On Wednesday, Aug. 16, we proudly hosted an Executive Healthcare Forum with four of Birmingham’s prominent healthcare leaders.

Attendees enjoyed lunch, networking and an insightful discussion on the healthcare industry.

Dec. 3 Mountain Brook Holiday Parade Dec. 7 English Village Holiday Open House Jan. 31 Annual Luncheon

For A Full List of Community Events, Scan to Register for the Chamber's Monthly Newsletter!

205 - 871 - 3779

WWW.MTNBROOKCHAMBER.ORG MountainBrookMagazine.com 85

OUT & ABOUT

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SNOOZY’S KIDS 35TH ANNIVERSARY

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PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

On Friday, Aug. 4 at Snoozy’s Kids, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony, honoring the business’s 35th anniversary in Mountain Brook.

1.

Millie Rudder, Shelby Weir, Emily Jensen and Jackson Herron

2.

Alice Womack, Millie Rudder and Virginia Smith

3.

Sarah Parker Lowery and McKay Smith

4.

Emily Jensen, George Jones and Mayor Stewart Welch

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Snoozy’s Kids 35th Anniversary Ribbon Cutting

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The Falkenburg and Jones families

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Ira Mokrytska, Virginia Jones and Jennifer Doyboylan

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George Jones

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Liv Brady and Camilla Marshall

10. Patti Vines 11. Rivers and Rosie Durham with Ward Smith 12. Jackson, Bennett and Katarina Jones

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OUT & ABOUT

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TERROIR TUESDAYS

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PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

On Tuesday, Aug. 8, Golden Age Wine hosted a wine-tasting event, featuring light charcuterie and a two-hour guided wine tour.

1.

Adam Klein and Carly Elston with Adam and Sarah Baumgarten

2.

Anna and Brett Dunn

3.

Laura Marinos, Alyssa Grisetti and Kassandra Ross

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Candace Wilson and Jeff Liu

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Peyton Panik

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Jeff and Sonya Jordan with Josie, Tara and Mark Robertson

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OUT & ABOUT

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FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

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PHOTOS BY MOUNTAIN BROOK SCHOOLS

It was all smiles on Wednesday, Aug. 9—the first day back at school for Mountain Brook Schools’ students.

1.

Brooks, Grayson and Tucker Gilbert

2.

Frances and Timothy Fincher

3.

Stacy Freeman and Frances Worsham

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Henry and Anne Margaret Frerman

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Charlie Hughes

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Virginia Bevis and student

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Anderson Gunn

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Stella Samford

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Henry Smith and Hutch Cole

10. Thomas VanHauen and James Howard 11. Evelyn Richards, Madeline Mota, Caroline Botts, Melia Hanes and Mackenzie Jones 12. Mountain Brook Schools students 13. Hastings Bromberg and Walter Goodrich

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OUT & ABOUT

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THE SPARTANS VS. THE REBELS

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PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Thursday, Aug. 24, Mountain Brook High School kicked off football season against Vestavia Hills High School in Spartan Stadium.

1.

Allie Creutzman and Lizzy Davis

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Arden and Lovelace

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Ben and Walker

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Brooks and Krysten

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Caroline Courtenay, Eleanor Bagby and Cate Widener

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Haley and Drew Smith with Eric Huggens

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JoAnn Huddleston and Jennifer Cotney

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Julia Holt and Ginger Busby

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Kate and Sarah Cate

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OUT & ABOUT

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POOCHES ON THE PATIO

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PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

On Thursday, Sept. 14, Vino held its 12th anniversary celebration and donated a portion of the event’s proceeds to the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Tito’s Handmade Vodka sponsored the anniversary party.

1.

Sean and Elaina Chadwin with Ruby

2.

Len Park with Mini

3.

Jennifer and Andy Cordover with Winston and Rosie

4.

Allison Abad with Tater

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Forrest Cook with Frisbee

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Abby Slupe with Dude

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Vihari Sornapudi with Copper

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Olivia Slupe with Winston

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Beth O’Donnell with Winston

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AAA Journey to Journey Journey to to Christmas Wonder Christmas Christmas Wonder Wonder

MARKETPLACE

Marketplace Mountain Brook Magazine • 205.669.3131

HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT TODAY! (for 3,5, or 10 months) Make a lifelong friend from abroad. Enrich your family with another culture. Select an exchange student from over 70 different countries. All families are welcome to apply. CALL PAMELA AT (205)577-9323 host.asse.com or email info@asse.com Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted.

Clanton (205)280-0002.

Pelham (205)444-9774.

Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience.

CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007 NOW HIRING!!!

BEST WESTERN PELHAM • FRONT DESK • HOUSEKEEPERS • HANDYMAN “RETIREES ARE WELCOME” CALL OR TEXT 205.908.1305” BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE • TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN! • SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS! • STUMP GRINDING! • GENERAL LIABILITY • WORKERS COMP WWW.BRIANSTREE.COM 205-281-2427 Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280!

205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbama wellness.org MAKE AN OFFER 20’ & 40’ Used Shipping Containers Toll-Free or Text 1-833-762-7793 Dogwood Plumbing LLC – Master Plumber, Master Gasfitter.

Licensed & Insured.

Senior Discounts.

Plumbing • Drain • Gas 205-864-2369 dogwood plumbingllc@gmail. com

96 Winter 2023

SENIOR L2/L3 AUTOMATION SPECIALIST Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsbl for anlzng user needs & sftwr reqs. to dtrmne fsibilty of dsgn w/in time & cost constraints, dscssng & evltng potential situations that can arise insde the plant & correlating them w/fnctnlts of the MES or flat prdct cntrl app. to produce fnctnl reqs. for each prjct, obtnng & evltng info on factors such as rprting frmts req., costs, or secrity needs to dtrmne hrdwr cnfgrtn.

HS diploma w/3 yrs of prior work exp. in the pos. off. or rel. dvlpng, tstng & comsng Lvl 2 Automation Systms & Lvl 3 MES Syst. Send resumes to r.woods@danieli.com Property Real Estate Manager (live out). Sought by commercial real estate company. Worksite: Birmingham, AL. 36 months exp. req. in same job or, Private Household Management or, any other closely related. Supervise other service workers $28.82 per. hour. 40 hrs. weekly.

No walk in’s. Mail resume with cover letter to: The Founder.

The Hazelrig Companies.

3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite # 315, Birmingham, AL 34243.

AUTOMATION L1 PLC DEVELOPER Danieli Taranis (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsble for dvlpng sftwr prjct for autmtn sys.; intnl tstng of sftwr app on autmtn sys; drawing up ad prep. of oprtr manuals; field check, assurance that all field elctrcl eqpmnt is cnctd to autmtn sys; motor mvments accrdng to data sheet; mach. automatic mvmnts according to cycle diagram; monitor plant prdctvt. Bachelor’s in Cmptr Scnce or IT w/5 yrs of progress resp. prior wrk exp in the pstn offrd. or reltd. Mst knw (thru acad training or wrk exp) dvlpng MES autmtn sftwre using DELPHI XE2 & SQL ORACLE PL/SQL for bcknd dvlpmnt; dvlpng autmtn sftwre for steel indstry; SQL dtbse, Vsl Stdio Cde, Delphi 2005, Orcle dtbse, incl. Orcle ADF, Orcle SOA, & Orcle BPM. Resumes to r.woods@danieli.com.

Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga.

MountainBrookMagazine.com

256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A).

Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm.

Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer BIRMINGHAM WATERWORKS CONTACT US AT (205)244-4000 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Production Supervisor $50,000.00-$70,000.00/ year 10hr shifts Mon-Thurs Oversees production operations.

Sets objectives, organizes workflow, prepares schedules, assigns responsibilities, trains employees, ensures safety, schedules maintenance, submits performance reports. Skills:Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/match, Health/Dental/ Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING 2nd Shift Supervisor $50,000.00$70,000.00 2nd shift 2:30p.m.1:00a.m. Monday–Thursday Responsibilities: • Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment • Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments • Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility.

725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Maintenance Technicians: Friday–Sunday 12 hour shifts 6:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader.

Starting pay $19-$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 Quantum Logistics Hiring Class A Driver. Montgomery, AL. Full or part time. $.48-$.55 per mile. Paid weekly.

BCBS Insurance. Home weekend EZ Pass and prepass. Safety & Fuel Bonus.

Apply online www.qtmlog.com Call (334)2888106.

Take your anxiety out of baking Fall pies – You CAN bake them Yourself!! Join me on September 24th and learn to make a buttery, flaky delicious crust and fill it with local Apples just in time for the Holidays!! Classes are held at Party Art Studio in Pelham and are totally hands on. September 24, 2023 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Sign up on my Facebook page @Siggi’sTable or Email siggistable@gmail.com See You Soon!!

Nursing Assistant to help care for an elderly gentleman in Jemison requiring total assistance. PT-FT. To apply, call Ms. Peoples (205)688-1992 or (205)447-3005 Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time.

Must have pistol permit.

Call Brittany 205-991-4653 Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

WHATLEY PLUMBING Locally Owned Residential & Commercial. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Plumbing & Gas. Repairs, Replacements, Installation, Water Heaters.

122 Chilton Place, Clanton.

205-755-8555 Now Hiring For Utility Positions Starting pay $15.14/hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com Hiring Experienced Driver Must have Class A CDL, Hazmat, tanker exp. Local deliveries, so

you will be home every night.

We have new equipment, FT/PT positions available with excellent hourly pay. Offering health/dental insurance, paid vacations. Send resumes to: mark@allenoil.com Call 256-404-4143 or come by the Allen’s office at: 1251 Old Bham Hwy in Sylacauga NOW HIRING SERVICE TECHNICIANS • 5 yr minimum experience required. • BCBS Insurance. • $25-$35 per hour (based on experience) + commission. Carden Heating & Cooling. 205-669-2459 Hill Brook Manor Apartments 300 Sumner Dr. Calera, AL 35040 205-668-2020 Affordable Living 1 and 2 BR Apartments Available As low as $465 a month Experienced Termite Technician or someone experienced in routeservice work and wants to learn new profession. Work-vehicle/ equipment provided. Must drive straight-shift, have clean driving record/be 21/pass background/ drug test. Training provided.

Insurance/401K offered. M-F 7:00-4:30 + 1 Saturday/month.

Pay $13hr. Send resume to facsmith@charter.net WE ARE HRIING Lawn & Ornamental Service Technician Benefits Include: 401K, BCBS Medical & Dental Insurance, PTO + Holiday Pay Heritage Tree and Lawn Care is seeking passionate technicians to make an impact in the industry. APPLY NOW 205-995-3331 #TechCareer #HiringNow By Heritage Lawn & Tree Care Facebook Apply Today 205-995-3331 Darrel@heritageltc.com More information: heritageltc.com Canopy Park Apartments NOW LEASING! Call us for Specials!

205-813-5568 2100 Canopy Trail Pelham, AL 35124 www.canopyparkapartments.com Canterbury Realty Group 4000 Eagle Point Corp.

Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 Acquisition, Divorcing, or Estate Settlement? Real Estate is at its core. From 6K-4M Let my experience work for you!

John M. Antonio Associate Broker 205-706-6858 antonioproperties@gmail.com

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MY MOUNTAIN BROOK MILLIE RUDDER

2023 President of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce

Sentimental Spots

Canterbury Methodist Church I married my husband at Canterbury Methodist Church.

Of course it is beautiful, but every bride should know just how long the aisle is! Perhaps it just felt long because I couldn’t wait to get to the altar.

Fellowship in Community

Mystics of Mountain Brook The Mystics of Mountain Brook Halloween Parade is an event I look forward to every year. I love the participation and the creative floats from Mountain Brook schools, residents and business. It is so fun to watch the enjoyment and excitement on the faces of attendees from kids to adults.

Local Eateries

Otey’s Tavern There are so many, but it is really hard to beat one of Rodney’s famous cheeseburgers from Otey’s.

Nestled in Nature

Jemison Trail Jemison Trail is a great place to connect with nature and offers plenty of shade during hot summer days. Walking the paths with my kids and the conversations we have had over the years makes it a place that is very dear to my heart and where many memories were made.

Meaningful Memories

Crestline Elementary School Both of my kids’ first days of kindergarten at Crestline Elementary are great memories of mine. I was so worried they would be scared or nervous, but they both took off like they had done it a million times. The very best part was when they turned to wave goodbye, all I saw was the biggest of grins and enthusiasm in their eyes.

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T R U ST THE STA N DA R D OF E XC E L L E N C E

• AC • HEATING • PLUMBING • GENERATORS • 24/7 SERVICE • MAINTENANCE PLANS • EASY PAYMENT PLANS

CallStandard.com 205•624•5046 AL LIC#14134

$

50 Off ANY PLUMBING REPAIR

Valid with repair only during normal business hours.

Coupon must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Some restrictions apply. Expires 12/15/23 - SCM2310

ENERGY-EFFICIENT HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS AS LOW AS

$

115/mo

Valid on select 2-ton full heat pump systems only. See dealer for details. Financing available through GreenSky, LLC with approved credit. Some restrictions apply. Expires 12/15/23 - SCM2310

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