The Birmingham Zoo has been named Attraction of the Year by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, recognizing a year where conservation leadership and tourism growth went hand in hand. The award was presented on May 7,2026 at the Red Mountain Theater in Birmingham, Alabama.During its 70th anniversary year, the Zoo welcomed more than 502,000 visitors, … [Read more...]
Strength in Friendship: Two friends turned business partners are working to make our community healthier
By June Mathews Photo by Jordan WaldSixteen years ago, Leigh Karagas and Paula Windle barely knew each other. They frequently heard each other’s names through mutual friends, and they were both members of the Junior League. Otherwise, they were about as familiar to each other as distant cousins at a family reunion. “I would hear her name and think, ‘Oh, Leigh … [Read more...]
The Rotary Club of Shades Valley Announces 2026 Scholarship Recipients
The Rotary Club of Shades Valley announces the recipients of its 2026 scholarship awards, recognizing outstanding high school seniors for their academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service. Each student will receive a $10,000 award for a total of $90,000 to further their education.The students were honored at a luncheon on Monday, May 4 at the Birmingham … [Read more...]
Crisis Center: Alabama is facing a mental health crisis—the Birmingham Crisis Center is here to help.
By Nausicaa ChuIt can be 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. You can be 19 or 90. You can be grieving a loved one or stressed over homework. No matter what time it is, who you are or what you want to talk about, one Birmingham phone number—205-323-7777—will always pick up.That phone number is the Birmingham Crisis Center’s Crisis and Suicide Line, which offers support to callers … [Read more...]
All in the Family: A multi-generational construction business debuts a new Southbend home on this year’s Parade of Homes.
By Madoline Markham KoonceDaniell 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 … [Read more...]