By Laura McAlister Journal EditorWhen it comes to interior design, decorator Tammy Connor considers lighting to be somewhat like the icing on a cake.When done correctly, it only enhances the decor, said the principal owner of Tammy Connor InteriorDesign in Homewood.Her nearby home in Hollywood is a good example of just how the right lighting and fixtures can … [Read more...]
Sideline Star
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...]
Exceptional Art
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...]
Three for the Arts
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...]
Painting the Party
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...]