Making the best of it: Some Rocky Ridge businesses affected by Western closing
When Western Supermarkets closed in January, Vestavia Hills lost a family-owned store that had been a staple in the community for decades. Read more
Photo by Jonathan Norris
The Reset: Football topples Tuscaloosa County
The Vestavia Hills High School sports teams were in action last week. Read more
Photo by Jonathan Norris
Rebels run past Tuscaloosa County
The Vestavia Hills High School football team downed Tuscaloosa County 45-16 on Friday night. Read more
Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills City Schools.
15 Vestavia Hills High School students named National Merit Semifinalists
Fifteen seniors at Vestavia Hills High School have been named to this year’s class of National Merit Semifinalists. Read more
Submitted by Christine McJunkin.
Firefighter speaks to fifth-grade class about 9/11
Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge fifth-grade teacher, Jenna Williams, had a special guest visit with her class on 9/11. Read more
Photo courtesy of Allie Hulcher.
Vestavia Girl Scouts Event Focuses on STEM
The Vestavia Service Unit of Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama hosted its first Group Troop Thursday, September 5, 2019. Girl Scouts from all Vestavia troops were invited to participate in activities related to STEM. Read more
Photo by Todd Lester
Week 3 Football Primer: Rebels aim to remain unbeaten
Here's a look at some of the local high school football games this week. Read more
Neal Embry
Former Air Force member, Samford VP speaks to chamber
Doug Wilson spoke about traveling safely in a post-9/11 world. Read more
Neal Embry
Two Senate candidates to speak at Vestavia Hills library
Current Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill and state Representative Arnold Mooney will speak beginning at 9 a.m. Read more
Photo courtesy of Connie O'Brien.
Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School moves to the historic Titusville community
Holy Family Cristo Rey’s board acquired the former Center Street Middle School on June 11, 2019 from the Birmingham Board of Education. Renovations and upgrades were made over the summer in time for classes to begin on August 8. Read more
Photo by Todd Lester
The Reset: Football continues strong start
The Vestavia Hills High School sports teams were in action last week. Read more
Photo by Patty Green.
VHEW students learn “The West Way”
Courtesy, respect, and responsibility make up “The West Way,” and every year, students learn about these good character traits during West Way Week. Read more
Sarah Finnegan
Week 2 Football Primer: Rebels begin region play
Here's a look at some of the local high school football games this week. Read more
Students at Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park raised more than $14,000 in August to support a children’s research hospital
The “Put Childhood Cancer in Chains” fundraiser encouraged students to donate money or participate in the St. Jude Walk/Run of Birmingham on Sept. 21, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Read more
Sarah Finnegan
The Reset: Rebels football rolls, volleyball, cross-country also in action
The Vestavia Hills High School sports teams were in action last week. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson Starnes Media
Bailey takes over as director of student services
Education may be a second career for Jennifer Bailey, but she’s already moving into her second job with Vestavia Hills City Schools. Read more
Staff photo.
PTO leaders prepare for 2019-20 school year
An integral part of Vestavia Hills City Schools is the relationship between parents and teachers, helped along by each school’s Parent Teacher Organization. Here are the leaders for each school’s PTO for the 2019-20 school year. Read more
Photo courtesy of Liz McGuire.
Vestavia mayor to speak at Harvest of Hope luncheon
Vestavia Hills Mayor Ashley Curry will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Harvest of Hope luncheon, a fundraiser for Oak Mountain Mission Ministries. Read more
Photo by Lexi Coon.
Consignment sales return this fall to Vestavia Hills
Two consignment sales will once again offer Vestavia Hills residents a chance to shop for the new school year or get a head start on Christmas. Read more
Sarah Finnegan
Rebels roll past Homewood
Vestavia Hills High School routed longtime rival Homewood on Friday night. Read more
Photo by Sarah Finnegan.
Patriot Day returns to Homewood
The annual Patriot Day ceremony held by Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook and Homewood to remember the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, this year returns to Homewood City Hall. Read more
File Art.
Helping Hands in the Hills returns for fifth year
On Sept. 14, teams from across Vestavia Hills will help carry out service projects all across the city. Read more
Female Scout troop brings home patches, friendships from summer camp
From first aid to kayaking, the members of Scout Troop 86 Green tried nearly everything that Camp Comer had to offer in their first summer at camp. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
New medical plaza on track to open late 2019 or early 2020
The new Vestavia Medical Plaza is still on track to open late this year after breaking ground last December. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
Small businesses play vital role in community
From sponsoring community events to advertising at high school football games, small businesses are a part of life in Vestavia Hills. Read more
Photo courtesy of Urgent Care for Children.
Two pediatric urgent care clinics coming to Vestavia Hills
This fall, Vestavia Hills will welcome two new pediatric urgent care clinics, both of which will provide after-hours care for children and young adults, birth to age 21. Read more
Photo by Jesse Chambers.
Three Vestavia Hills businesses named Alabama Retailer of the Year
Three Vestavia Hills businesses have been announced as winners in the Alabama Retailer of the Year competition: New York Butcher Shoppe, Domino’s Pizza and Leaf and Petal. Read more
Mayor's Minute
Our “Phoenix Program” became operational on July 1. As you may have read in last month’s submission, this substance abuse intervention program provides an opportunity for individuals to seek counseling or recovery assistance. Read more
East playground to open Sept. 3
VHCS Superintendent Todd Freeman said with a ranger placed on the third hole of the golf course, the playground can now be reopened. Read more
Photo by Sarah Finnegan.
Top-Tier Talent: VHHS junior Ethan Strand a step ahead of the rest
Most runners would have tossed in the towel after running three races in two days. But Ethan Strand, as he has demonstrated time after time, is not like most runners. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
Wald Park construction ongoing as fundraiser starts for Miracle Field
The new Wald Park, part of the Community Spaces plan, is designed with the intent to be an attraction for the city along U.S. 31 and will include new ballfields, green spaces, a new swimming pool, an amphitheater and a “great lawn” area. Read more
Photo by Todd Kwarcinski
Week 1 Football Primer: Rebels head to Homewood
Here's a look at some of the local high school football games this week. Read more
Council approves amendment to small-cell ordinance
The council also approved the bid for work at the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex. Read more
Burgess aims to ‘do it all’ in entertainment industry
From winning a national championship as a member of the Auburn football team in 2010 to starring in movies like “Woodlawn” and going on international tour with the cast of “Spamalot,” Blake Burgess has been busy since graduating from Vestavia Hills. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
Making the best of it: Some Rocky Ridge businesses affected by Western closing
When Western Supermarkets closed in January, Vestavia Hills lost a family-owned store that had been a staple in the community for decades. Read more
Photo courtesy of Bluff Park Drone
New Pizitz campus to open August 2020
The move was delayed in February after heavy rainfall delayed construction. Read more
Photo by Todd Kwarcinski
The Reset: Fall sports begin
The Vestavia Hills High School sports teams were in action last week. Read more
Todd Kwarcinski
Rebels cruise to jamboree victory
Three touchdown tosses from Eli Sawyer was all Vestavia Hills would need as it cruised to a commanding 38-3 exhibition game victory over Briarwood on Friday night. Read more
Photo courtesy of the Red Mountain Theatre Company.
Red Mountain Theatre Company Celebrates 40th Birthday with Broadway Bash
Honorary chairs Carole Waitzman and Kam Patton hosted over 500 guests for Red Mountain Theatre Company’s biggest fundraiser of the year at UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center on April 27, 2019. Read more
A Letter from the VHCSF President
Now that we have concluded one school year and prepare to begin another, the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation ("VHCSF") is once again proud to have helped our award-winning schools in achieving the excellence that we are all accustomed to. Read more
Jimmy Mitchell
Week 0 Football Primer: The season begins
Here's a look at several of the local high school football games this week. Read more
Neal Embry
Council hears proposed amendment for small-cell technology fees
The amendment would alter the fee structure as part of a compromise between the city and AT&T. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson Starnes Media
Healing in the Heights: Bendy’s officially reopens
Bendy's had been closed after the death of Ben and Wendy Treadwell's infant son, Owen, in late July. Read more
Country Club responds to golf balls forcing closure of playground
The country club said in a statement emailed to the Voice on Friday night that it instructed players "further to the green." Read more
Jesse Dick Spittin' Images
Vestavia Hills native trains Naval fighters
Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Marshall, a native of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, is an instructor at NETC, providing the fleet with sailors who possess the basic technical knowledge and skills necessary for naval service. Read more
Photo Courtesy of Summar Zulanas.
Vestavia PTO starts fundraiser
As part of a fundraiser, the Vestavia Hills PTO is trying to turn the city “red and blue.” Read more
Photo Courtesy of Michael Moore.
New kiosk added to McCallum Nature Trail at McCallum Park
On Friday, Aug. 9, 2019, the final touches were completed on the new McCallum Nature Trail kiosk at McCallum Park. The kiosk was constructed as part of the Eagle Scout project of Graham Moore. Read more
Neal Embry
Superintendent speaks to chamber
Freeman spoke about the school's strategic plan and how to continually improve Vestavia Hills City Schools. Read more
Neal Embry
City manager introduces 2020 budget
The city council also approved an increase of about $32,000 to the Green Valley Road sidewalk project. Read more
Neal Embry
Back to School in the Hills draws big crowd
The event celebrates the return of the school year and is geared toward children and families. Read more
Photo Courtesy of David Butler
Cahaba Riverkeeper says no lawsuit being filed against developer
In late April, the riverkeeper threatened to sue the Taylor Burton Company, claiming sediment had seeped into the Cahaba River. Read more
Photo courtesy of Ryan Winslow American Legion Post 911
Vestavia Hills Marine veteran wins AR-15 rifle in American Legion raffle
The raffle raised more than $3,300 to help support veterans in need. Read more
Country Club responds to golf balls forcing closure of playground
The country club said in a statement emailed to the Voice on Friday night that it instructed players "further to the green." Read more
Local child attends JDRF Children’s Congress
John Henry Kirkpatrick was one of two Alabama youths, selected from a pool of nearly 1,000 children ages 4 to 17, to represent the state at the JDRF 2019 Children’s Congress in Washington, D.C. Read more
POP Knights support parishioner’s mission
The Prince of Peace Knights of Columbus recently gave parishioner Meagan Richardson a donation of $1,500 to support her FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) missionary work at Tulane University. Read more
Vestavia resident attends robotics academy
John Clark of Vestavia Hills recently attended Robotics Academy at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, home of Space Camp, the Aviation Challenge, U.S. Cyber Camp and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center’s Official Visitor Center. Read more
Photo Courtesy of Milo's Hamburg
Milo's opening in old Rite Aid space in Cahaba Heights
The restaurant is expected to open next spring. Read more
Photo by Todd Lester.
Rebels ready to ‘bring it every week’
In August, Buddy Anderson will begin his 42nd season as the head football coach at Vestavia Hills High School. His Rebels are aiming to build on a 2018 campaign that saw them go 6-4 and narrowly miss the Class 7A state playoffs. Read more
Photo courtesy of David Leong.
Rebels win 2nd straight state lacrosse title
One of life’s biggest challenges is attaining and maintaining success. Achieving success is the easy part, but sustaining success takes a special individual or group. The Vestavia Hills High School girls lacrosse team falls in that category. Read more
"Larger Than Life": Walter Berry remembered by daughters, family at Leaf and Petal
There was no mistaking when Walter Berry walked into the room. “When he would get here in the morning, you could tell right when he would walk in the door, because you would hear him,” said Jamie Pursell, owner of Leaf and Petal. Read more
Unless U close to fundraising goal for new building
As of July, Unless U has received $1.25 million of the $1.3 million fundraising goal they set late last year to pay for their new building on Chestnut Street. Read more
Photo by Alyx Chandler.
Kids unplug with outdoor programs
While some Vestavia Hills elementary students might be heading off to more traditional sports like soccer or tennis this fall, Treeline Expeditions LLC offers kids the unique opportunity to spend time after school paddling the Cahaba River. Read more
Photo by Bobby Mathews.
Publix construction underway at Liberty Park
Ground has been cleared and construction has started on the Publix at the Marketplace, located at the Bray at Liberty Park, according to new project manager John Bonanno. Read more
Photo by Kristin Lindsey.
Nuzzi Gelato brings traditional gelato to Birmingham
When Nick Lannuzzi, the owner of one of Birmingham’s newest food trucks, Nuzzi Gelato, went to Italy a few years ago and tried their artisan gelato for the first time, he couldn’t stop thinking about the frozen treat. Read more
Photo courtesy of NS Studio.
NS Dance opens Cahaba Heights studio
Natalie and Shad Simpson both began dancing in Birmingham studios at around 2 years old. The husband and wife duo now own NS Dance Studio, where they can share their love for dance with others. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
Dunkin’/Baumhower’s expected to open in October
The new Baumhower’s Victory Grille, along with adjacent business Dunkin’ (formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts), are expected to open Oct. 1 or shortly before or after, a few weeks after college football season gets started. Read more
Rebels recognized for success on diamond
The production and potential of a few Vestavia Hills High School baseball and softball players have been recognized over the summer months. Read more
Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills City Schools.
Rainey steps into new role at VHCS
With a long career in education, Aimee Rainey is now prepared to take yet another step forward as she assumes the role of assistant superintendent of teaching and learning at Vestavia Hills City Schools. Read more
Photo by Alyx Chandler.
Mayhem on the Mountain returns to OMSP
The largest CrossFit event in the state of Alabama, Mayhem on the Mountain, is set to return to Oak Mountain State Park on Aug. 17 and 18. Read more
Staff photo.
Back 2 School in the Hills returns for 6th year
For the sixth year in a row, Back 2 School in the Hills will provide families a chance to have one last party as the school year gets underway. Read more
Staff photo.
City Manager: Flooding on US 31 the problem of private owners, other entities
While flooding continues to be a concern in the city, City Manager Jeff Downes said the city is taking care of what it can. The most affected areas along U.S. 31 fall to the control of ALDOT, Jefferson County and private businesses. Read more
Mayor’s Minute
Vestavia Hills is committed to assisting individuals that are struggling with addiction, and this intervention program would provide an opportunity for individuals that realize their addiction to seek counseling or recovery assistance. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
Christmas in August: 1st day of school requires months of work behind the scenes for staff
Vestavia Hills City Schools Director of Public Relations Whit McGhee said he’s heard the first day of school is like “Christmas morning” for teachers and school leaders who work tirelessly over the summer to get to day one. Read more
Photo by Erin Nelson.
Cities work together to combat youth vaping
After the state Legislature passed a bill aimed at keeping teens away from e-cigarette usage, city leaders in the greater Birmingham area are working together to address the issue in their respective cities. Read more
Photo by Lexi Coon.
Families invited to share stories of how they came to Alabama
On August 1, families in the Vestavia Hills area can share their story of how they came to Alabama at the Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Read more
Neal Embry
Board approves strategic goals
The goals were created as part of the strategic planning session held by Vestavia Hills City Schools. Read more
Neal Embry
Council approves Wald Park bid
The bid allows work on the pool facility, baseball complex, parking and roadway work to begin almost immediately. Read more
Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills City Schools.
VHHS math team participates in national convention
The Vestavia Hills High School math team placed fourth at the 49th annual Mu Alpha Theta National Convention, held in July. Read more
Photo courtesy of Billie Allbritton.
Group celebrates 90th birthday of former principal
On July 13, a group of past teachers, administrators and friends gathered at First Watch in Vestavia Hills City Center to celebrate the 90th birthday of Ozilene Cartee. Read more
Photo courtesy of Beth Anne Loudermilk.
VHYB recognizes championship baseball teams
Several teams within the Vestavia Hills Youth Baseball network put together successful spring seasons, with teams ranging in age from six and under to high school. Read more
Neal Embry
Senate hopeful Bradley Byrne speaks at Vestavia Hills library
Byrne, from the Mobile area, questioned sitting Senator Doug Jones' values and positioned himself as an ally to President Donald Trump. Read more
BOE approves major contracts at Berry campus
The building of a new softball and baseball complex, as well as improvements to Columbiana Road, were approved at the July 2 meeting. Read more
Photo courtesy of the New Neighbors League Club.
New Neighbors League makes annual donation
The New Neighbors League Club (NNLC) of Birmingham announced its 2019 Annual Donation gift in July to the Alzheimer’s Research Program at UAB, led by Dr. Jeremy Hershkowitz. Read more
Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills City Schools.
Vestavia Hills City Schools hires new curriculum and instruction director
Vestavia Hills City Schools will start the 2019-20 school year with an additional director of curriculum and instruction. Read more
Neal Embry
Council holds short meeting
There was no old or new business at the July council meeting, though Finance Director Melvin Turner gave a financial report. Read more
Photo courtesy of Magic City Theatre On Ice.
Theatre on Ice teams place in national competition
The Magic City Theatre On Ice skating team defended their 2018 National title in the open division and won silver in the intermediate division during the National Theatre on Ice Competition at the end of June. Read more
Photo courtesy of American Cancer Society South Region.
American Cancer Society holds golf tournament
Tee It Up Fore Life, the American Cancer Society’s premier golf tournament in Birmingham, was held on June 10 at Old Overton Club in Vestavia Hills. Read more
Photo courtesy of Kelly Atchison, Two Men and a Truck.
8U softball players win state championship
The 2019 Vestavia 8U All-Stars won the USSSA State Championship over the summer. Read more
Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.
VHHS student participates in economic and community development program
Claire Christie of Vestavia Hills High School was one of 32 rising high school seniors who participated in the third annual Huntingdon College Economic and Community Development Scholars Program June 25-27. Read more
Neal Embry
I Love America draws big crowd despite weather threat
The event was moved indoors prior to the start time. Read more
Neal Embry
Freeman, CSFO given high marks on evaluation
Todd Freeman and VHCS CSFO Courtney Brown were called "rockstars" by Susan Salter from the Alabama Association of School Boards, which facilitated the review. Read more
Neal Embry
Council approves rezoning for townhomes on Massey Road
The eight townhomes will go in the space previously occupied by the unfinished Vestavia Terrace condominiums, which burned down in July 2015. Read more
Neal Embry
Traffic studies yield possible safety improvements near new schools
The studies were conducted as part of an APPLE Grant, and have not yet been formally approved by the City Council. Read more
Lexi Coon
Governor signs Briarwood police officer bill into law
The text of HB 309 allows the president or chief executive of each campus to employ police officers to “keep off intruders and prevent trespass upon, and damage to, the property of the school or academy.” Read more
Neal Embry
Secretary of State Merrill speaks to Vestavia chamber
Merrill, who's been in office since 2015, spoke about his work in expanding voter registration and helping business leaders. Read more
Neal Embry
Council approves bid for Cahaba Heights athletic fields
The council also approved the annexation of land to possibly be used for overflow parking at Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge. Read more
Leah Ingram Eagle
VHUMC Farmers Market in full bloom
The VHUMC Farmers Market is in its fourth week and takes place each Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Read more
Neal Embry
Council approves pedestrian tunnel project
The project has been in the works since 2014, and will connect both sides of the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex. Read more
Neal Embry
Police monument dedicated at VHPD
The memorial is partially finished, with statues to be added later. Read more
Neal Embry
Zoo president speaks to chamber
Chris Pfefferkorn has led the zoo since June 2018. Read more
Neal Embry
Council approves construction of digital billboard at Royal Automotive
The council also heard a complaint from Dennis Hardy about a personnel issue. Read more
Water outage planned for Wednesday
The Birmingham Water Works will replace four large valves in the Rocky Ridge area of the city. Read more
Kyle Parmley
Relentless Rebels finish undefeated season, repeat as state champs
The Vestavia Hills girls soccer team capped off an unblemished season with a victory over McGill-Toolen on Saturday afternoon in the Class 7A state championship game. Read more
Photo by Jon Anderson
Vestavia Hills zoning board recommends rezoning for townhomes on Massey Road
Developer Charles Kessler is proposing to build eight town houses on a site where 15 condos previously burned down. Read more
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