By Barry Wise SmithPhoto by Jordan Wald and courtesy of ourHomeGrowing up, Amanda Owens did not enjoy sharing a bathroom with her younger brother Chris Clark. But as Chris, who has cognitive disabilities, got older, Owens worried if he could ever expect to have his own bathroom. Chris was fortunate to live with his parents, and his sister when it became … [Read more...]
It’s A Family Tradition: Teen Pilot Perry Stringfellow Takes to the Air
By Anne RuisiPhoto courtesy the Stringfellow familyNot too long ago, Allen Stringfellow watched his teenaged son, Perry, guide a green and white Cessna 172 in for a landing at the Shelby County Airport. The 16-year-old’s flight instructor standing next to him quipped, “I wouldn’t trust most 16-year-olds with a weed whacker, much less an airplane.” While most … [Read more...]
Shining Light: Vestavia Hills native Abbie Stockard reigns as Miss America 2025
By Barry Wise SmithAbbie Stockard, a Vestavia Hills native, didn’t grow up dreaming of being Miss America. She was a dancer. “I’ve been dancing since I could walk,” she says. “First and foremost, I’m a dancer and a performer.”Abbie grew up a student at Birmingham Dance Theatre and served as captain of the Vestavia Hills High School Rebelettes dance team as a senior. … [Read more...]
What’s new at the Zoo: Cool Cats Coming
By Cissy JacksonThe Alabama Wilds area of the Zoo is about to get a lot wilder. Cougar Crossing, the Birmingham Zoo’s newest addition will feature two fascinating wildcats, who will join other native species as the Zoo continues to enhance guests’ opportunities to experience and learn about the wildlife in our state. Building on a leadership gift from Phyllis and … [Read more...]
2025 Summer Camp Guide
Once again we bring you our annual Camp Guide. With dozens of options from dance to drama, music to math, sports to special needs it’s all here. And don’t forget to check out our awesome sponsors’ advertisements as well as their listings below.The sooner you get your summer camp plans scheduled the more you can relax. Read … [Read more...]