By Donna CorneliusTeacher Sherri Spears remembers the day a bright ninth grader made a strong case for getting into aclass usually restricted to upperclassmen.The student, Niki Noto, had her heart set on taking Sherri’s broadcasting class at Oak Mountain High School.“Niki told me she’d do anything – even take out the trash – if I’d let her take the class,” said … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorHe starts with a blank sheet of butcher paper and then carefully selects his colors.For this particular painting, James chooses a fiery red and a bright yellow. Then he delves into his work.As a new participant in Homewood's Exceptional Foundation, James has discovered a love for painting. He's also made some pretty good … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorTheir friendships have lasted decades, and though their backgrounds differ, one thing is the same – they all share a love for the arts.Mountain Brook residents Garland Smith, Lyndra Daniel and Lisa Paden Gaines have known each other for years. During that time they've watched the arts scene in the Over the Mountain and Birmingham … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorMost of Thomas Andrew's popular elephant paintings have a letter representing a certain football team hidden in them, but one of his newest works is hiding a totally different symbol for a whole other sport.Thomas of Mountain Brook was commissioned by the state Republican Party to create one of his signature elephant paintings for the … [Read more...]

By Laura McAlister Journal EditorJim Watkins is giving a childhood favorite a new, grown-up taste.In his Homewood popsicle shop, Steel City Pops, you won't find the dull flavors of the past. Instead of grape and orange, this shop has hibiscus, strawberry balsamic and pineapple jalapeno. If it's something creamy you crave, there's always avocado or chocolate … [Read more...]