OTMJ 4.16.26

HOMES

18 | Keith Thomson headlines this year’s Magic City Art Connection. ABOUT

20 | Things to do, people to see, music to hear

23 | Mountain Brook native Francie Morris helps lead Samford to the NCAA Tournament.

24 | Homewood baseball eyes a deep playoff run.

Publisher & Executive Editor: Lee Hurley Editor: Barry Wise Smith

Design Director: Claire Cormany

Photography: Jordan Wald

Contributors: Madoline Markham Koonce, Loyd McIntosh

Account Executive: Julie Trammell Edwards

We would love to hear from you on any subject: lhurley@otmj.com

Art & Magic I

think I’ve mentioned a time or two what an art geek I am. We are so fortunate in Birmingham to have our amazing Birmingham Museum of Art (and shameless plug: if you haven’t gone to see the exhibit French Moderns: Monet to Matisse yet, take this as your reminder to get there before the exhibit ends on May 24) and one of my personal favorites, the Magic City Art Connection.

The Magic City Art Connection (MCAC) got its start in 1983 in Inman Park. Founded by Eileen Kunzman, the festival was created to bring creative energy to Birmingham’s downtown and has since grown into the premier annual contemporary arts festival in the city. In 2021, MCAC moved from Linn Park to Sloss Furnaces and over the years has added events to its roster like Corks & Chefs, a fantastic tasting event featuring the city’s best chefs and mixologists, and the Imagination Festival, which features interactive workshops and projects for children and families.

This year, the featured artist is Keith Thompson, and Lee Hurley has written a fantastic article on page 18 that talks with Keith about how he found himself a painter later in life. Another shameless plug, our very own uber talented designer Claire Cormany will be at MCAC again this year showing (and selling) her amazing paintings! I myself have bought a number of things at MCAC over the years, and my receipt is the painting featured above by artist Kendra Runnels. It’s one of my favorites and hangs in the entrance hallway at my house.

So get out in the beautiful spring weather, and support arts in Birmingham!

–BARRY WISE SMITH

VIEWS

Cyrus, Dominic, Dominic, and Luke celebrate opening day of the Joy League in Homewood. “Where the dirt is real, the stakes are low, and the competition is friendly.”

Photo by Jordan Wald

2026 OASIS OF HOPE LUNCHEON

On April 7, Oasis Counseling hosted their annual Oasis of Hope Luncheon at The Club benefitting their mental health services for women, children and families across the Birmingham metro area and more than 20 counties in Alabama. Guests heard an inspirational message from keynote speaker Lulu Gribbin, a 17-year-old shark attack survivor from Mountain Brook, whose remarkable journey of faith, perseverance and recovery is a testament to the power of healing. Her inspiring story reflects the practices at the heart of Oasis’ mission—providing compassionate, effective mental health care that fosters renewed hope and lasting healing. During the event, Kenneth Byrd Jr., senior vice president at Protective Life, was honored as the 2026 Anne Bruno LaRussa Visionary Award recipient for his contributions to the organization.

23rd Annual Taste of Homewood

The 23rd annual Taste of Homewood was held on March 19 at SoHo Square Plaza. Hosted by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, the much-anticipated annual food event featured samples from over 25 local restaurants, bakeries and beverage partners. Guests also enjoyed live music and a silent auction, with all proceeds benefitting the Chamber’s programs. The 2026 People’s Choice Award Winners (guests used voting tokens to select their favorite vendors) were: 1st Place: Shiki; 2nd Place: New Shoes Soft Serve and 3rd Place: El Barrio.

VANITIES DANCE CLUB 96TH ANNUAL BALL

The Vanities Dance Club held its 96th annual ball in the East Room at the Country Club of Birmingham on Friday, March 13, with the theme “Dance into Spring.” Amidst an array of spring flowers prepared by Ray Jordan of Flower Buds, 125 members and guests were greeted by president, Katherine Galloway with Trip, and ball chairman Katherine Trammell with Buddy. New members introduced to the club included Taylor Davis with Rick, Alice Featheringill

Gus Mayer

A Century of Luxury and Style in Birmingham

Gus Mayer A Century of Luxury and Style in Birmingham

FFor more than one hundred years, Gus Mayer has defined luxury fashion in Birmingham. Established in 1922 on the city’s bustling 5th Avenue North retail block, the family-owned specialty store quickly became synonymous with impeccable taste and personalized service. Over the decades, Gus Mayer has evolved alongside Birmingham itself—moving from its Highland Avenue location (now home to Bottega Restaurant & Café) to Brookwood Village, and ultimately, in 2011, to its luminous 16,000-square-foot boutique at The Summit.

or more than one hundred years, Gus Mayer has defined luxury fashion in Birmingham. Established in 1922 on the city’s bustling 5th Avenue North retail block, the family-owned specialty store quickly became synonymous with impeccable taste and personalized service. Over the decades, Gus Mayer has evolved alongside Birmingham itself—moving from its Highland Avenue location (now home to Bottega Restaurant & Café) to Brookwood Village, and ultimately, in 2011, to its luminous 16,000-square-foot boutique at The Summit.

Today, still locally owned and operated, Gus Mayer remains the city’s leading destination for luxury women’s fashion, offering an exceptional curation of designer apparel, shoes, jewelry, and cosmetics. The store features an unparalleled selection of Louis Vuitton and Chanel handbags—and showcases distinguished fragrance houses including Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Bond No. 9, Creed, Mind Games, and Byredo. From couture eveningwear to refined Mother of the Bride collections, the Gus Mayer experience celebrates elegance on every occasion.

Today, still locally owned and operated, Gus Mayer remains the city’s leading destination for luxury women’s fashion, offering an exceptional curation of designer apparel, shoes, jewelry, and cosmetics. The store features an unparalleled selection of Louis Vuitton and Chanel handbags—and showcases distinguished fragrance houses including Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Bond No. 9, Creed, Mind Games, and Byredo. From couture eveningwear to refined Mother of the Bride collections, the Gus Mayer experience celebrates elegance on every occasion.

What truly distinguishes Gus Mayer is a commitment to service. The experienced team of professionals treat their customers like family. Many have served for more than twenty years with a devotion to both their craft and their customers.

What truly distinguishes Gus Mayer is a commitment to service. The experienced team of professionals treat their customers like family. Many have served for more than twenty years with a devotion to both their craft and their customers.

A century after its founding, Gus Mayer has evolved into a modern luxury boutique that unites exclusivity, sophistication, and Southern grace.

A century after its founding, Gus Mayer has evolved into a modern luxury boutique that unites exclusivity, sophistication, and Southern grace.

Gus Mayer remains the city’s leading destination for luxury women’s fashion, offering an exceptional curation of designer apparel, shoes, jewelry, and cosmetics.

VESTAVIA HILLS ROTARY CLUB AMERICA 250 DEBATE

On March 12, the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club teamed up with the Vestavia Hills High School (VHHS) Debate and Speech Team to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with dinner and a debate. The event was held at the Vestavia Civic Center with the audience selecting the debate topic—the pros and cons of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Debate judges included VHHS Principal Dr. Blair Inabinet, State Representative Danny Garrett, Prosper Birmingham

President J.W. Carpenter and Vestavia Hills City Schools Hall of Fame member Marilee Dukes. Team con won the debate, and all proceeds from the event went to support the VHHS Debate Team, the Vestavia Hills Rotary Foundation, Small Magic and Impact America’s Speak First.

SOUTHVIEW MEDICAL GROUP IS NOW PART OF UAB MEDICINE.

One of the largest and most trusted physician practices in Central Alabama, Southview Medical Group has been serving patients for over a century and shares UAB Medicine’s mission to provide life-changing care.

•Primary and specialty care

•Easy scheduling by phone

•No referral required for primary care

•Expanded resources and expertise

•High-quality, value-based care

•Two convenient locations (downtown & Greystone)

We’re proud to welcome the physicians and staff of Southview Medical Group to the growing UAB Medicine family.

Gaieties Spring Luncheon

The Gaieties Spring Luncheon was held at the Country Club of Birmingham on March 31. The table settings reflected the freshness of spring with colorful Gerbera Daisy center pieces. The purpose of the meeting was the formal announcement of the newly appointed officers and the election of new members. New officers are President Helen Pardue; Vice President Harriet McFadden; Treasurer Kendall Eagan; Assistant Treasurer Susan Waggoner; Corresponding Secretary Susan Hammontree; Recording Secretary Katherine DeBuys; Membership Chairman Robin Reed; Nominating Committee Donne Toomey, Hannon Davidson and Katie Patrick; Yearbook Hannon Davidson; Parliamentarian: Donne Toomey; 2026 Spring Party Chairs Kitty White and Kathy Whatley and 2026 Winter Dance Chairs Paige Albright and Jenny Reed. New members joining the club are Lois Bradford, Amy Bromberg, Bebe Burkett, Sara Clemmer, Beth Corey, Janie Evans, Nancy Faulkner, Anne Hurley, Charlotte Kearney, Suzanne Milligan, Marcie Rodrigues and Net Wade. OTMJ

PICKWICK DANCE CLUB SPRING PARTY

Stars Fell on Alabama on March 6 at the Country Club of Birmingham for the Pickwick Dance Club Spring Party. Members said it was the BEST party EVER! Guests were greeted with 100 sparkly tea lights, a beautiful gold and silver balloon arch and curtains of silver stars. The East room was filled with large star balloons and clear balloons supported and surrounded by beautiful white tea lights! Tables were covered with white cloths and silver stars and sparkly bases of silver wreaths to anchor the floating balloons with silver chargers at each place setting.

The Emerald Empire Group played vintage dinner music to begin the evening as 140 members and guests arrived and filled the room. A delicious buffet dinner of Caesar salad, Parmesan soufflé potatoes, grilled chicken tenders and beef tenderloin with bernaise was served with Baby Bites for dessert. As the music switched to favorite hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s, the dance floor was filled. Pickwick President Charlotte Kearney was in charge of the party along with her committee of Helen Pardue, Kathy Anderson, Lind Burks, Kathy Miller and Jane Shalhoop. It was an evening filled with joyful laughter, fun conversation with longtime friends and dancing to favorite songs! OTMJ

General Sumter Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution

Members of the General Sumter Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution met on March 4 at the Country Club of Birmingham. Regent Judy Anderson introduced Connie Grund, Honorary State Regent, and Susan Moore, Honorary Regent of Lily of Cahaba Chapter, who delivered the program on Pioneer Homes of Alabama. They highlighted the three oldest houses in Jefferson County: The Owen House, The McAdory House and The Sadler House. They presented a slide show and answered questions following their talk. Mrs. Anderson presented them with gifts at the conclusion of their presentation.

Emily Blount highlighted the accomplishments of member, Clare Sullivan Towery, and presented her with a certificate of appreciation and a memento, which was a state of Alabama pin. Towery will be leaving Alabama and moving to Texas. OTMJ

OLD ELYTON DAR SPRING MEETING

On March 17, the Old Elyton Chapter of the Daughter of the American Revolution held their spring meeting at the Country Club of Birmingham.

Award-winning novelist Ruth Beaumont Cook was the speaker, talking about her novel Guests Behind the Barbed Wire: German POWs in America: A True Story of Hope and Friendship, which chronicles life in the World War II prisoner of war Camp in Aliceville, Alabama. The camp was one of the largest in the United States—holding 6,000 prisoners—and was one of four in Alabama. Almost every prisoner in the camp was from Germany. Because of the good conditions and favorable treatment in the camp which adhered to the rules of the Geneva Convention, many of the prisoners and their descendants have returned to Aliceville to visit. Cook highlighted stories of prisoners and their experiences and the involvement of the community. OTMJ

Anders was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition that was affecting his immune health and significantly impacting his overall development. His doctors determined his best treatment option was a bone marrow transplant, and luckily Anders found his match and received his transplant. Now Anders is reaching new developmental milestones and is starting to get back to being a normal kid.

A practical conversation with Bobby Cope on building financial stability.

BY LEE HURLEY PHOTO BY JORDAN WALD

Financial planning doesn’t always have to be stiff or complicated. The best insights come from real moments—helping a family after a hurricane, guiding a first-time investor or explaining why paying off a credit card can take priority over investing in the market. That’s how Bobby Cope has been plying his trade as a financial planner for the past seven years. He understands that the seeds he helps his clients plant today will create financial stability and security down the road. Graduating from Alabama with both an undergraduate and a master’s degree, Cope moved to Houston to work for financial planners Willis Johnson and Associates spending three years learning the business before moving home to join his father Pat at Cope Private Wealth. Today he holds both the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and Certified Private Wealth Advisor® designations. Recently Cope shared some thoughts about making, spending and keeping money.

START EARLY, BUILD SLOW, STAY CONSISTENT

Great financial relationships don’t begin at retirement. They start decades earlier—when someone’s saving their first

$50,000 and trying to make smart decisions through life’s milestones: buying a home, having kids, launching a business. Growth happens naturally when trust is built early and sustained through every stage.

DELETE HIGH-INTEREST DEBT

If your credit card is charging 26 percent interest, no investment strategy can compete with that. Before chasing

returns, stop “negative compounding.” Consolidate debt, explore a zero-percent intro card or consider a low-rate home equity line if it makes sense.

OPTIMIZE TAXES AND SAVE—BUT REMEMBER TO LIVE YOUR LIFE

Roth IRAs, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and tax-free college 529 saving plans are powerful, but flexibility matters too. Saving is only smart if it supports a life you actually want to live. Don’t skip taking a vacation with your kids. They will only be kids once. Fund their future, but balance long-term efficiency with present-day joy.

MAKE

THE MOST OF NEW TOOLS

More 401(k) plans now offer “self-directed brokerage windows” through firms like Fidelity or Schwab—giving savers and their advisors access to thousands of investment choices beyond the limited plan menu. It’s a big shift that allows for more personalization inside traditional workplace accounts.

CONSIDER THE FEES

Owning direct equities like individual stocks or ExchangeTraded Funds (ETFs)—a basket of securities such as stocks, bonds or commodities that tracks an underlying index, sector or asset—rather than layers of mutual funds can improve control and reduce fees.

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY

Investment themes like the “AI infrastructure stack”— semiconductors, utilities, energy and data connectivity— highlight how opportunity often lives beyond the headlines. OTMJ

An Evening in Paris

The Birmingham Museum of Art’s 69th Annual Museum Ball

The Birmingham Museum of Art is preparing to transport guests to the allure and elegance of Paris with its 69th Annual Museum Ball on May 2. This year’s theme, Étoile: A Parisian Affair, draws inspiration from the popular exhibition Monet to Matisse: French Moderns, 1850–1950, celebrating a century of French modern art. Co-chairs Katherine Blount, Ashley Miles and Elizabeth Miles have curated a glamorous black-tie evening designed to enchant and delight.

Guests will begin the night with an outdoor cocktail reception before enjoying a seated dinner surrounded by art in the galleries with a menu prepared by Kathy G & Company. The evening will conclude with dancing beneath the glow of Parisian lights. Limited tickets are still available on the Museum’s website.

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY AND THE ARTS

For the co-chairs, the Museum Ball is about more than a celebration of art—it is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the community. The event is the Museum’s signature fundraising event, and proceeds directly support the Birmingham Museum of Art’s Learning & Engagement Department. This vital funding allows the Museum to serve students, educators and families through programs that promote art education, enhance access to the arts and create enriching experiences for K-12 students.

Reflecting on the importance of arts education, Ashley Miles shares: “I still remember sitting in art class as a child, completely captivated by the colors, the textures, the possibility of creating something entirely my own. That experience inspired a lifetime of creativity for me. The BMA helps make that same spark possible for students all over our city who may not otherwise have access to art programs. Beyond the Museum walls, it helps young people realize their

full power and potential—and the Museum Ball provides the resources to make it happen.”

Katherine Blount emphasized the importance of supporting cultural institutions: “We are fortunate to have a world-class museum that brings exhibitions like Monet to Matisse to Birmingham for all to see. It’s important that we support these cultural treasures and make sure they are sustained for generations to come.”

FUNDING CRITICAL INITIATIVES

Funds from the Ball help sustain programs that might otherwise be unavailable to many students and families, as arts education diminishes in schools. From school tours to hands-on workshops and student exhibitions, these initiatives inspire creativity, critical thinking and a love of art in Birmingham

and beyond. The Museum Ball also ensures that the BMA can continue to welcome all visitors free of charge, removing barriers and encouraging lifelong engagement with the arts.

“Supporting the museum is an investment in our community, continuing free access and world class programs and exhibitions,” says Elizabeth Miles, “Having brought my children to the museum from a young age, I know firsthand how the ball proceeds provide lifelong learning and exposure to the arts.”

With a night full of art, music and dancing, the 69th Annual Museum Ball promises to be a celebration of culture, community and creativity—an evening where guests can revel in the magic of Paris while making a difference in Birmingham. OTMJ

Tickets can be purchased on the museums website artsbma.org.

All in the Family

A multi-generational construction business debuts a new Southbend home on this year’s Parade of Homes.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM KOONCE

Daniell Burton grew up around construction job sites. His dad builds homes. His grandfather built homes. His two brothers now build homes. You could say the residential construction business is almost genetic for him, but it’s deeply tied to passion too. “With a custom home, you can build something different based on the land or based on people with different tastes and what they want,” he says. “It’s fun putting all of that together, and it keeps things interesting day to day.”

Now Burton is a third generation to not only be involved with the Parade of Homes (he’ll be the chair of next year’s event) but also to showcase a home on it this year. During the weekends of April 24-26 and May 1-3 (see sidebar on page 16 for more event details), anyone in Birmingham can tour the new home built by Burton’s family’s business, Taylor Burton Company, at 3304 Southbend Circle in Vestavia Hills, along with dozens of other new homes in the Birmingham area on the Parade.

Burton encourages anyone interested to check out a home or two near them on the tour. For him, one of the best parts of the Parade experience is hanging out in their Parade home during the event and answering any questions visitors have about countertops, paint colors, square footage and anything else they’d like to know. “It’s a cool two weekends for people to go out and look and see the latest greatest thing [in residential construction],” he says.

New this year, the Parade organizers are also hosting a Home Building and Remodeling Expo May 8-9 at Vestavia Hills Civic Center where anyone in the area can talk with experts about building, remodeling, landscaping and more.

It’s fitting that the Taylor Burton home in this year’s Parade is in Southbend—a neighborhood off Rocky Ridge Road with about 45 homes—since Taylor Burton, the company Burton’s dad Taylor started in 1986,

first developed several years ago. They have built several custom-designed homes a year in Southbend, and now 3304 is completed on one of the last remaining lots.

Since the Parade home is a spec house, the Taylor Burton team likes to go all out to select new and interesting materials throughout the home to showcase, and that’s just what you’ll find throughout the four bedrooms,

three-and-a-half bathrooms and 4,523 square feet inside their Southbend home. “Nearly every aspect of the home involved tailored design and craftsmanship that we thoroughly enjoy,” Burton says.

The exterior of the home, which will be listed for $1,350,000, features a classic white painted brick paired with Hardie siding and complemented by cedar accents that give the house warmth and architectural character. As guests enter the front door, a vaulted, coffered ceiling creates a dramatic focal point paired with a custom iron handrail.

Visitors will also find thoughtful interior selections throughout the home, from the Brava Blue polished quartzite in the kitchen to the wide plank white oak floors throughout the home, all selected by interior designer Honey Miller.

The main level features not one but two bedrooms, along with a spacious kitchen (which comes with a private bar area and a walk-in pantry!) that opens seamlessly to the living room and a casual dining nook. Off the entry, a flex room can serve as either a formal dining room or a home office, and at the back of the home a large porch with a grilling deck is an ideal spot for outdoor living.

Back in the primary suite, a concealed door connects the master closet and bathroom directly to the laundry room. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms share a bathroom and a loft area, and on the lower level a sizable unfinished basement, lower outdoor living are, and two-car garage round out the home’s space.

Although Burton spoke with us about this home, he’s quick to note that his youngest (fitting, since the home design’s name is also The Reilly). All three brothers, including their middle brother Zach, grew up on the cleanup crew for houses Taylor Burton Company built, but now one by one they’ve come on board to serve as project managers for the company after graduating college. And now there’s no telling how many more homes around Birmingham will continue to have the Burton family imprint for generations to come. OTMJ

Preview More Parade of Homes for 2026

ART

PURE FUN

Novelist, humorist, cartoonist, screenwriter and painter Keith Thomson headlines this year’s Magic City Art Connection.

BY LEE HURLEY

When Birmingham resident Keith Thomson got the email inviting him to be the featured artist at this year’s Magic City Art Connection (MCAC), his self-deprecation and humor were in full force: “I saw the email and figured it was sent to me by mistake.”

Thomson’s paintings are self-deprecating and funny too and thankfully Birmingham will get to see them in person at MCAC’s 43rd annual celebration April 24-26 on the grounds of Sloss Furnace National Historic Landmark.

BASEBALL IN PARIS, CARTOONS IN MANHATTAN

Thomson grew up in Connecticut and at 20, was invited to play semi-pro baseball for Le PUC, in Paris. “Spring training was in Parma, Italy,” says Thomson. “That was one of the best experiences of my life, a perfect storm of things I love: baseball and travel.” When he returned home a year later, he began drawing editorial cartoons, landing freelance work for the New Haven Register, New York Newsday, and ultimately the New York Times during the 1990s.

Asked how he got into drawing Thomson

says, “As my mother tells it, she gave me crayons in the high chair to keep me out of her hair.”

LIGHTS, CAMERA, REWRITES AND SPYCRAFT

Following his cartoonist days, Thomson tried filmmaking. A short film of his was screened at Sundance, which led to screenwriting work for TriStar, Paramount and Disney. “I was in a meeting at Paramount— 15 people giving notes on a rewrite—and afterward my agent said, ‘If you write a novel, no one can change anything.’” He had never considered writing a novel, but that night in his hotel room, Thomson signed up for a Stanford continuing-ed course. His first project became Pirates of Pensacola, which has been affectionately called a “humor adventure novel.”

He’s since published a string of thrillers and spy novels—including the New York Times bestseller Once a Spy, its sequel Twice a Spy, 7 Grams of Lead and more recent titles through Hachette. His nonfiction has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Garden & Gun, and The Huffington Post. Thomson is currently finishing his latest novel, and when asked if he loves to write, he quotes Dorothy Parker “I don’t like writing; I like having written.”

THE ACCIDENTAL PAINTER

After nearly a decade coaching Little League baseball for his two sons, Thomson suddenly found himself with free time when they “retired” at age 12. “So I decided to play golf. A friend—who’s a golf fanatic—said, ‘You used to be good at drawing Keith. Why don’t you do that instead?’ I think he just didn’t want me in his club.”

So Thomson picked up oils for the first time. “I’d never done oil painting before,” he says. “But I tried it and loved doing it.

I can’t wait to get my writing done every day so I can paint.”

That spontaneity became the hallmark of a second career. Thomson’s self-taught technique feels modern. His paintings transform everyday settings—a diner, a rooftop, a city street—into humorous observations about life.

About Thomson’s steep learning curve with painting he says, “One year at Magic City Art Connection, I rented a leaking tent. One of the administrators asked, ‘Surely all your paintings are varnished, right?’ I didn’t even know you were supposed to use varnish. Another artist told me, ‘Just put as much on as you can—people love the shiny.’ So I started picking up tips wherever I could.” Thomson credits the MCAC with “opening the doors to his second career.” What began as a hobby slowly turned into a professional vocation. “Magic City gave me a place to learn and grow,” he says. “It’s like going to art camp.”

ESCAPISM

“The truth is, my goal is pretty simple: escapism,” Thomson says. “I draw and paint in representational forms, often pairing the

ordinary with the surreal. Elevators, bars, street corners—familiar places where an unexpected presence shifts the entire narrative. Humor and tension coexist in these moments, offering a way to see the world slightly off‑kilter.” Thomson follows up with, “In practice, I’m happy if the painting is an improvement over a blank wall.”

Thomson’s 2019 piece Thanksgiving Day features a gigantic Mighty Mouse parade balloon drifting past an apartment window where a real cat stares in disbelief. That intersection—between the ordinary and extraordinary—captures much of his art. “As much as I love seascapes, I know I don’t have the technical skill to do the kind of seascape I’d want to see,” he admits. “So I try to make it interesting—maybe throw three guys into a bathtub. That gives me license to push the color and composition as much as I want.”

He’s currently completing a “Subway Subordinate” series for his upcoming Playhouse Gallery show in New York, featuring 16 new works inspired by mass trans portation. “I really love subways,” he says. “I’ve probably painted 20 of them.”

“BIRMINGHAM, BIRMINGHAM, GREATEST CITY IN ALABAM”

By day, here in Birmingham Thomson writes. “Writing is my job,” he explains. “Painting is still technically a hobby—even though it’s the best

part of my day.” He approaches both disciplines with a storyteller’s eye: spies dodging surveillance satellites and ducks eyeing an alien visitor.

Thomson has lived in Birmingham for two decades. Of raising his kids here, Thomson says, “When I was growing up in Connecticut, I went to the Zoo maybe once. My kids went once a week living here.”

Keith concludes, “It’s really just pure fun at this point for me, and I don’t know what else to say. We’re going to France the week before the show, and then my son’s graduation is one week afterwards. It’s just kind of a nuts time, but I wouldn’t miss this for anything.” OTMJ

CLAIRE CORMANY: In the Moment

Artist Claire Cormany will be showing her paintings at the Magic City Art Connection as she has for the last 17 years. Attending Samford in the ‘90s, Cormany majored in graphic design and minored in painting. She has successfully engaged in both disciplines ever since. Cormany uses lush colors featuring ethereal interpretations of the familiar. “I’m trying to capture an overall feeling—a moment,” she says. Keith Thomson adds, “Claire has been one of my mentors, giving advice along the line. We have one of her originals in our living room.”

Look for Cormany’s acrylic and oil paintings at the 43rd Magic City Art Connection Sloss Furnaces April 24-26.

For more information, visit clairecormany.com. OTMJ

Fri., Apr. 17-Sat., Apr. 18

ST. ELIAS FOOD & CULTURAL FESTIVAL

Join the 28th annual St. Elias Food & Cultural Festival for delicious food, live music, traditional dancing, a silent auction and much more. Sample Lebanese favorites like baked kibbee, lemon grilled chicken, grape leaves, tabouleh, homous, spinach pies and desserts like baklawa, mamoul and ice cream. Also join the St. Elias Cedar Run 5K or Cedar Shake Fun Run. The event is free and offers free shuttle parking.

WHEN: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

WHERE: St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church 836 8th Street So.

Fri., Apr 17

LOCAL LEGACY CONFERENCE

Hear from leading experts at Transworld Business Advisors, Birmingham Business Alliance, the National Center for Employee Ownership, Project Equity and others on exit planning, ownership models, financing options and transition planning. Free to attend. Breakfast and lunch will be served. Tickets api.leadconnectorhq.com.

WHEN: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

WHERE: Sloss Furnace

Fri., Apr. 17- Sat., Apr. 18

FREAKY FRIDAY THE MUSICAL IN HOMEWOOD CENTRAL PARK

The Performing Arts Company of the Homewood Theatre will be performing Freaky Friday in Homewood Central Park for a four-performance weekend. The shows will take place Friday, April 17th at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 18th at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., and will feature local sponsor tents as well as food trucks for audience members to enjoy while watching the show.

WHEN: Various times WHERE: Homewood Central Park

Sat., April 18

VESTAVIA HILLS FARMERS MARKET

Vestavia Hills has a new farmers market each first and third Saturday with fresh produce, local meat from Youngblood Ranch, sourdough bread, candles, jellies, fried pies and more.

WHEN: 8 a.m.- noon

WHERE: 633 Montgomery Hwy.

Sat., Apr. 18

20TH ANNUAL GUMBO GALA

Sample delicious gumbo from local chefs and restaurants while supporting the Episcopal Place mission through this lively annual fundraiser.

WHEN: 1 p.m.

WHERE: Cahaba Brewing Company

COMPETITIVE

VHSC PRE-TRYOUT CAMP

Boys & Girls: Ages U8-U19

Dates: May 4-6, 2026

Join our competitive training to prep for tryouts!

VHSC COMPETITIVE TEAM TRYOUTS

Boys & Girls: U8-U19

Dates: May 2026 - See website for info!

Join our competitive soccer teams for U8-U19!

VHSC SUMMER SOCCER CAMPS

Boys & Girls: All ages and levels!

June Half Day Camp: June 8-11

July Half Day Camp: July 6-9

VHSC Positional Camp: July 24-26

SOCCER TRYOUTS & CAMPS

Sat., Apr. 18

IRA GLASS:

SEVEN THINGS I’VE LEARNED

Prepare for an unforgettable night with legendary storyteller Ira Glass, the creator and host of the iconic public radio program

This American Life. “Seven Things I’ve Learned” showcases Ira as he guides us through the lessons and insights he’s gained from his illustrious career.

WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Alys Stephens Center

Sun., Apr. 19

HISTORIC HOLLYWOOD TOUR OF HOMES

The Historic Hollywood Tour of Homes returns for the city’s centennial year, inviting

residents and visitors to step inside some of Hollywood’s most beautiful and historically significant homes. This self-guided tour, organized by the Hollywood Garden Club, offers a rare opportunity to experience the architectural charm, rich history and timeless elegance that define Birmingham’s first “over the mountain” community. Tickets at bit.ly/hollywoodhometour2026

Thurs., Apr 23

SAMFORD LEGACY LEAGUE SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATION

Samford University Legacy League will culminate its yearlong centennial celebration with a spectacular event featuring a concert by Act of Congress. The 100th Anniversary Scholarship Celebration will also include an elegant seated dinner. Proceeds from this milestone event, which is open to the public, will support the Legacy League’s lifechanging scholarship program for students

with significant financial need and challenging life circumstances. For reservations and more information, visit samford.edu/legacyleague.

WHEN: 5:30-9:00 p.m.

WHERE: Covenant Presbyterian Church

Fri., Apr 24-Sun., Apr 26

MAGIC CITY ART CONNECTION

The 43rd annual Magic City Art Connection features over 160 artists displaying their paintings, jewelry, mixed media, photography, clay and more. For more info: magiccityart.com.

WHEN: Various times

WHERE: Sloss Furnaces

28th Annual

Sash replacement, rot repair

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Fostering Compassion is Grace House Ministries’ largest annual fundraising event, bringing together community leaders, businesses and churches to

supporting Birmingham’s only all-girls foster care ministry. This year’s theme is “Take Heart, Daughter” and focuses on the critical need for counseling.

WHEN: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

WHERE: The Fennec | The Social

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LEBANESE FOOD & CULTURAL FESTIVAL

20th Annual Lebanese Food

and Cultural Festival Friday and Saturday, April 13 & 14 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

April 17th & 18th, 10am to 9pm Free Admission

St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church 836 8th Street So., Birmingham (Between University Blvd. and 10th Ave. So)

FOOD: including Rolled Grape Leaves, Spinach Pies, Baked Kibbee and Falafel Sandwiches, Tabouleh (Lebanese Salad), Grilled Lebanese Lemon Chicken, Loobia (Green Beans), Rice, Homous and Pita Bread. Desserts include a variety of Baklawa, Kaak (Lebanese Sugar Cookie), Lebanese Ice Cream.

LEBANESE DELICACIES INCLUDING: Baked Kibbee, Lemon Grilled Chicken, Grape Leaves, Tabouleh, Homous, Spinach Pies and Desserts like Baklawa, Zlaybah and Ice Cream.

St. Elias Cedar Run 5K and Cedar Shake Fun Run Silent Auction · Music & Dancing · Free Shuttle Parking

SILENT AUCTION: Features catered Lebanese dinners, vacation packages, collector items, gift certificates to restaurants and events in Birmingham area. Closes 8 on April 14.

25% of all festival proceeds go to local and national charities. For more information visit www.stelias.org.

5K RUN: Saint Elias Cedar 5K Run on April 14 at 8 a.m., followed by Cedar Shake Fun Run at 9 a.m. Benefits The Exceptional Foundation, an organization established to provide social and recreational activities for individuals with special needs. For route and registration, visit

DANCING: Traditional dances by youth of the church on indoor stage starting 6 Friday and 12:30 p.m. Saturday.

New York-based Amin Sultan Lebanese Band performing under outdoor tent from 6 9:30 p.m. nightly.

Sat., Apr 25

HOMEWOOD LIBRARY FOUNDATION BLOCK PARTY

Presented by SouthPoint Bank, the Library’s signature fundraising event offers food samples, live music and fun for all ages in support of the Homewood Library Foundation. Tickets sold at the door. WHEN: 4-6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Homewood Public Library

Fri., May. 1

DERBY AND DINING

The Hoover City Schools Foundation invites the community to an evening of great food, fun and philanthropy at its second annual Derby & Dining fundraiser. Inspired by the spirit and excitement of the Kentucky Derby, guests will enjoy a catered dinner, live and silent auctions and other special activities throughout the night. Funds raised during Derby & Dining will support the Foundation’s mission of providing

teacher grants and innovative classroom programs that enhance learning opportunities for Hoover students. Derby attire is encouraged. Tickets: hoovercsf.org

WHEN: 6-10 p.m.

WHERE: Oris and Oak

Sat., May 2

69TH ANNUAL MUSEUM BALL

This year’s Museum Ball, themed Étoile: A Parisian Affair, promises an unforgettable evening of elegance and sophistication, inspired by the premier exhibition Monet to Matisse: French Moderns, 1850–1950. This curated black-tie affair will bring the romance of French culture to Birmingham. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, followed by an exquisite seated dinner prepared by Kathy G & Company and conclude with a night of dancing beneath the glow of Parisian lights. Tickets: artsbma. org/get-involved/the-museum-ball.

WHEN: 6-9 p.m.

WHERE: Birmingham Museum of Art

Sat., May 2

MOUNTAIN BROOK ART ASSOCIATION

PRESENTS: ART IN THE VILLAGE ANNUAL ART SHOW

This beautiful juried show of highquality fine art painting and drawing in

traditional media is held in the heart of Mountain Brook each spring. WHEN: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

WHERE: Mountain Brook City Hall

Sun., May 3

BIRMINGHAM VEGAN FEST

Hosted by Birmingham Vegans, Alabama’s largest, free and family friendly plant-based festival features over 70 vendors with local and out-of-state plant-based food, clothing, art, health/beauty products, music by DJ DillyDilly and hourly door prizes. Plan for a diverse array of cuisines, including vegan Thai, Mexican, Southern and comfort food.

WHEN: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

WHERE: Cahaba Brewing Company

Thurs., May 7

CCA BIRMINGHAM CRAWFEST

This very popular event presented by the Thomas E. Jernigan Foundation features a silent auction, raffles, games, prizes and music by T.U.B. The Cajun buffet by Crazy Cajuns includes crawfish, shrimp, jambalaya and more. Tickets include dinner, drinks and a 12-month CCA membership. Tickets: e.givesmart.com/events/NT1/ WHEN: 5:30-9 p.m.

WHERE: Birmingham Zoo OTMJ

MOUNTAIN BROOK NATIVE FRANCIE MORRIS HELPS LEAD SAMFORD TO THE NCAA TOURNAMENT

BY LOYD MCINTOSH

Francie Morris’s road to March Madness has come full circle. The Mountain Brook native and freshman phenom helped lead the Samford Lady Bulldogs to a Southern Conference title and a return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 14 years.

Part of a talented group of freshmen and sophomores, Morris was an important part of the team’s success throughout the 2025-26 season, averaging 25 minutes, 8.4 points and four rebounds per game. Just one season into her college career, Morris already has a conference championship—Samford’s first since the COVID-shortened 2019-20 season— and a trip to “The Big Dance” under her belt. While the Lady Bulldogs didn’t advance into the tournament—they lost in the play-in game to Southern University, 65-53—Morris says March Madness was an “incredible experience,” especially considering a rough patch during the season where they went 1-6 during conference play. Morris says she and her teammates, who all came from successful high school teams, started to click and were on their way to a historic and thrilling run. “A bunch of us were like, ‘okay, we’re not used to losing this much,’” she says.

In February, the Lady Bulldogs caught fire, winning five of the last seven regular-season

games, then won three straight games to capture the Southern Conference championship, punching their ticket to the NCAA Tournament in Greenville, South Carolina. “This has been the craziest experience ever, but it just made it so fun,” Morris adds. “It was hard at first; we just got rewarded for working super hard and then coming together as a team. I think we all just came together as a team and started playing for each other and not just for ourselves.”

Morris adds, “Just getting to play on that floor, and just knowing all these incredible players

have played there was an incredible experience. Being able to play in March Madness was truly a dream.”

Morris’s journey to Samford began in Mountain Brook among a family full of athletes and adrenaline junkies. Her twin brother, John, is a basketball player at Hillsdale College in southern Michigan. Her older brother, Duncan, is a pilot in the U.S. Marines, and her grandfather, the late Mike Kolen, was a linebacker for the Miami Dolphins in the 1970s. Nicknamed “Captain

Crunch,” Kolen was a two-time Super Bowl champion and was on the Dolphins’ team that went 14-0 in 1972.

While Morris may not slam unsuspecting quarterbacks to the turf, she certainly inherited her grandfather’s competitive spirit. She excelled in youth basketball while a student at Brookwood Forest Elementary School. In junior high, Morris was a standout with her club team in the Over The Mountain (OTM) basketball league as well as Mountain Junior High. Morris’ talent on the hardwood caught the attention of Mountain Brook High School Head Coach Sara Price, who put the talented point guard on the varsity squad as a ninth grader. However, Morris moved with her family to Montgomery following her freshman year, where she blossomed at Trinity Presbyterian. During her three years at Trinity, Morris led the Wildcats to three consecutive state championships (3A, 2023 and 2024, and 4A, 2025), and rose to the No. 5 player in Alabama by her senior year. Now a standout for Samford, her basketball life has come full circle, literally. As a young player with OTM, she had a chance to play at the Pete Hannah Center several times and appreciates the opportunity to help lead the Lady Bulldogs to new heights close to home. “I’m thankful that God has given me the opportunity,” says Morris. “I’m super excited for the upcoming years, and to just keep playing for Samford.” OTMJ

SPORTS

Thursday, April 16, 2026

HOMEWOOD BASEBALL EYES A DEEP PLAYOFF RUN

BY LOYD MCINTOSH PHOTOS BY JORDAN WALD

omewood baseball is on a roll. Head

Hcoach Lee Hall has the Patriots playing some of their best ball in years, and the team is racking up the wins and rankings to prove it. At the time of this writing (April 4), Homewood is 21-5, is the top-ranked team in the Alabama Sports Writers Association poll, No. 5 in the Prep Baseball Report (PBR) state poll and has outscored its opponents 220-57. In fact, this might be the best team Hall has had since taking over at Homewood for the 2018 season, a campaign that saw the Patriots sport a 29-11 overall record and advanced to the Elite 8 of the AHSAA 6A state tournament. Built around a core of a dozen senior leaders who have been playing together since they were middle schoolers in Homewood’s rec league, Hall said they have fully embraced the younger players on the squad, creating that magical team chemistry that coaches wish they could bottle and save for a rainy day. “I think what’s working is the fact that we have a senior class of 12 kids who have tons of experience playing at the varsity level,” says Hall. “At one point, six of those guys were in

the lineup for us as freshmen.”

Hall adds, “We’ve also got juniors who the seniors have fully embraced. There’s no separation, no cliques. It’s just one group, and that’s been huge. You win and lose in the clubhouse. What happens away from coaches determines how you play on the field.”

Coach Hall says Homewood’s strengths consist primarily in pitching, defense and base running. His pitchers attack the zone, the defense makes quality plays and limit errors, especially up the middle, and they focus on smart, efficient offense. “We’ve built everything around pitching and defense, especially being

“We have a senior class with tons of experience playing at the varsity level. They’ve been through ups and downs, and now they’re ready.”

–coach lee hall

strong up the middle,” Hall says. “We’re very strong defensively, and our pitchers throw strike one.”

One of the anchors of Homewood’s success is shortstop and pitcher Levi Nikolai, a player who has been a major contributor for five years. He was inserted into the starting lineup at shortstop as an eighth grader. Additionally, Nikolai has been a solid relief pitcher, coming into games mostly as a closer. Nikolai’s versatility gives the Patriots flexibility on the mound while maintaining a steady presence in the infield. “We’ve used him as a closer through his junior year, but now we’re building him up to possibly start as we get closer to the playoffs,” Hall says.

On the mound, senior Ben Roberts has set the tone with consistency and efficiency. A durable starter, Hall says, “he’s a strikethrowing machine,” that forces contact and trusts his defense to make plays. “He’s not a big strikeout guy, but he’s going to make something happen within three pitches.”

Another piece of the puzzle in the final weeks of the season could be Cooper Sain, a center fielder and starting pitcher. Recovering

from a back injury, Sain’s return down the stretch will add depth on the mound as the postseason approaches. “He’s made some adjustments, and his last two outings have been really good,” Hall says. “When you’ve got a guy throwing mid-80s later in the year that you haven’t used much, that’s a big boost.”

Other key contributors include catcher Cooper Mullins, who has provided stability since his freshman season, and a strong infield anchored by William Tanner at second base.

Regarding the team’s potential, Hall believes they are built for a deep run and have the potential to win Homewood’s first state baseball championship. However, not only does he believe it, but the players believe it as well. “At the beginning of the year, we let the players set their goals, and they chose to win a state championship,” says Hall. “They’ve earned that right. They’ve put in the work on their own summer and fall. A lot of these seniors have been starters for three or four years. They’ve been through ups and downs, and now they’re ready.” OTMJ