With their most recent round of grants and scholarships, the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International has given nearly a quarter of a million dollars to women across the state of Alabama pursuing culinary- related careers. At an awards ceremony on May 18, 2025, the chapter awarded a record $47,000.Les Dames Escoffier’s literal translation means the ladies … [Read more...]

The Rotary Club of Vestavia Hills recently awarded $2,000 in scholarships to three Vestavia Hills High School seniors. Chase Kaiser who will attend Auburn University, received the Raymond Hurlbert Strive for Excellence Scholarship. Hurlbert was a teacher and principal who has been recognized as the “Father of Alabama Educational TV.” As an avid Rotarian, he established 28 … [Read more...]

By Lee Hurley Photos by Jordan Wald and courtesy of the RebulasCatching up with Jovan and Frances Rebula is a little like chasing a butterfly. Thankfully though, in late April just days before leaving for Europe (again), the pair took time to sit down and discuss the trials and tribulations of choosing professions both challenging and sublime.Frances Patrick … [Read more...]

In 2013, Vestavia’s Dale and Kellie McIntyre along with daughters Delaney (14) and Riley (12), uprooted their comfortable and content lives for a five-month do-it-yourself journey around the world. Friends and family questioned their reasoning. Others wondered about the wisdom of withdrawing their daughters from Liberty Park Middle School.  And yet Dale and … [Read more...]

Edina Shrestha, JewelerBy Lee HurleyEdina Shrestha, whose jewelry will be on display at the 42nd Magic City Art Connection, designs jewelry that reflects her spirituality and is fueled by frequent visits to her home in Katmandu, Nepal. Edina meditates, practices yoga, and connects her art with the chakras—energy centers located along the spine that are believed to … [Read more...]