Business and community leaders with the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce have launched a search to replace Karen Odle as president of the organization. Odle has served in the position for 19 years and is retiring in May. The three-phase process for finding her replacement already has begun and is expected to take about 90 to 120 days.“Karen is a strong leader for … [Read more...]
Emotional Ending: Spain Park Surpassed Expectations Despite Semifinal Loss in State Basketball Tournament
By Rubin E. GrantSpain Park boys basketball coach Chris Laatsch couldn’t control his emotions following the Jaguars’ disheartening loss in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A semifinals.During the postgame news conference, he glanced to his right at seniors Colin Turner and Josh Harrington and choked up. He apologized, but there wasn’t any need … [Read more...]
A Night at the Oscars: Black-Tie-Optional Gala Offers Dinner and Amusements to Support Mitchell’s Place
By Ally MorrisonMitchell’s Place, an organization that provides resources for children affected by autism and other developmental disabilities, will soon host its annual Night at the Oscars Gala. On March 19, the red carpet-inspired event will be held at Haven and will provide guests a chance to support the organization during its largest fundraising event of the … [Read more...]
First Year’s a Charm: New Vestavia Hills Softball Coach Likes Team’s Potential
By Rubin E. GrantJohn Simmons didn’t have any plans to leave Hayden High School. He had been there 27 years, including 23 as the head softball coach. He had compiled a 659-299 record and led the Wildcats to state championships in 2013 and 2019.But last year, when he was contacted to see if he was interested in becoming Vestavia Hills’ head … [Read more...]
The Finley Committee Names 2022 Finley Character Award Winners
The Finley Committee last month named its 2022 Finley Character Awards winners, recognizing Dr. Alice Turney, principal of Riverchase Elementary school, as the faculty winner; Rotimi Kukoyi as the senior winner from Hoover High; and Audrey Rothman as the senior winner from Spain Park High.In nomination letters, Turney’s colleagues said her “superpower” was her commitment to … [Read more...]