By Madoline Markham KoonceFor many, the day of the solar eclipse in August 2017 might have brought back memories of wearing paper glasses and looking up at the sun. For TV news journalists Jack Royer and Lillian Askins Lalo, it was a day to return to their old stomping grounds at Mountain Brook Junior High School to speak to Sharon Flowers’ broadcasting class – a … [Read more...]
Dedication Rewarded: Parnells To Be Honored During 2024 ArtBlink for 2 Decades of Service to Cancer Research
Allene and Foots Parnell lost their 22-year-old daughter, Carleton, to cancer in 2002, but instead of giving up, they devoted their energy to improving cancer research and care. Foots spearheaded a $15 million campaign to establish the Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He also served as president of the advisory board … [Read more...]
‘Everybody Put in the Work’: Vestavia Hills Finishes Runner-Up in Class 6A-7A Girls Flag Football
By Josh Bean Vestavia Hills flag football coach Doug Rogers recalled the season’s first practice when he realized how few experienced players returned from the 2022 squad that had advanced to the state semifinals. Two players with starting experience on offense returned and only one on defense. “I was like, ‘All right we’ve got some work to … [Read more...]
‘Game Wrecker’ Rebels’ Ross Lands OTM Defensive Player of the Year Honor
By Rubin E. GrantJordan Ross is always looking for ways to improve.Even though Vestavia Hills’ dynamic 6-foot-5, 220-pound senior defensive end had a dominating 2023 high school football season, he wasn’t satisfied.“I didn’t play my best,” Ross said. “I think I could have played a lot better. I was hoping to be dominant every game.”Rebels head coach Robert Evans … [Read more...]
Workhorse: Vestavia Hills’ Head Earns 2023 OTM Offensive Player of the Year Honor
By Rubin E. GrantVestavia Hills football coach Robert Evans figured the only way for the Rebels’ offense to move the ball consistently during the 2023 season was to turn senior quarterback John Paul Head into a workhorse.Head embraced the role, displaying remarkable durability.“It was tough on my body, but I didn’t mind at all,” Head said. “Some guys throw it a lot … [Read more...]