By Kaitlin CandelariaBerry High School’s first graduating class swapped their tassels over in 1965. Now, they are gearing up for their 50th class reunion.“Even though a lot of us live in the Birmingham and the Atlanta area, we don’t see a lot of each other,” said Jane Gore Graham, planning committee member. “It’s still a special treat. There is a specialness about our … [Read more...]
Good Times: Birmingham Swim League Celebrates 50 Years
By Lee DavisJack Barnacastle coached future Olympian Billy Forrester and several future college All-Americans in his days as a swim coach.He coached many more future husbands, fathers, wives and mothers.They were all special to him.For four decades, Barnacastle was one of the top swim coaches in the Birmingham area, but with his modest nature, he won’t talk much … [Read more...]
Check Mate: Hoover Resident Teaches Chess in a Digital Age
By Lee DavisBalagee Govindan has accepted a challenge that would daunt others.In a world of computers and rapid-fire video games, Govindan has a passion for teaching another kind of activity to young people. Govindan’s game of choice doesn’t make much noise, and people don’t stand in line waiting to purchase a new version of it at the neighborhood electronics store. All … [Read more...]
From Arugula to Zuchinni: J&S Produce Brings Its Bountiful Harvest to Homewood
By Donna CorneliusIf you ask Jason Davidson what fruits and vegetables you’ll find at his Homewood produce stand, you may want to pull up a chair.It’s a pretty long list that ranges from arugula to zucchini.“Almost everything we sell is grown by my family in Chilton county,” Davidson said.He and his wife, Sheila, live in Clanton. But on Tuesdays, Thursdays and … [Read more...]
Soda and Splash: Can You Find Local Photographer’s Work on Bottle?
By Lee DavisLocal consumers of the popular Jones Cola brand now have yet another reason to purchase their favorite beverage.There might be someone they know on the bottle.The story began more than a year ago when Heather Durham, a professional photographer from Vestavia Hills, submitted a photo for use by the Jones Soda Company, which produces a line of specialty … [Read more...]