By Emily Williams Before moving to New York and performing on Broadway, Ben Hope nurtured his love of musical theater in his native Birmingham. Now, he’s bringing Broadway back home as he directs and performs in “Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash.” The production will be at the Virginia Samford Theatre Jan. 26 to Feb. 12. Hope is starring in the show, performing the … [Read more...]
Retiring From the Royal Court: Beaux Arts Krewe Corresponding Secretary Retires After 33 Years
By Emily Williams Winston Carl of Mountain Brook can recall nearly the entire history of Birmingham’s Beaux Arts Krewe, because her mother was there for its beginning and then passed along her position to Carl. After holding the slightly undefinable job of corresponding secretary/liaison between the ball’s king and queen, Carl is retiring from the volunteer position she has … [Read more...]
The Gift of Giving: Local Nonprofits Offer Holiday Gifts That Give Back
By Emily Williams The holiday season revives fond memories of pumpkin-spiced beverages, homes dressed in lights and a general cheeriness in the air. Then there are the less fond memories, most notably of shopping. It’s a time of year when you are scrambling to cross off every item on your list and drum up a gift idea for that friend or relative who “has everything.” Local … [Read more...]
Gather Round the Table: Urban Ministries Welcomes Community to Break Bread in West End
By Emily WilliamsLunch is served and everyone is invited to the Urban Ministries' WE Community Cafe in Birmingham's West End community.On any given Wednesday, patrons from all walks of life go to the cafe and share the same healthy and hearty meal. That blending of communities is as much the point of the cafe as is raising money, said Hill Carmichael, executive … [Read more...]
Toy Talks: OTM Toy Stores Put the Focus on Fun
By Emily WilliamsAt a toy store, one thing is always certain, things are going to be fun.Over the Mountain toy stores Homewood Toy and Hobby, Smith’s Variety and Snoozy’s Kids are in the business of fun, and this year that business will please both parents and kids alike.“I wouldn’t say we are selling educational toys, but that the toys themselves get your … [Read more...]