By Emily Williams-Robertshaw With spring break holidays happening this month, many vacationers may be opting to remain close to home and wait for the light at the end of the pandemic to draw nearer. Rather than heading to crowded beaches or taking a long driving trip to mountains states away, why not check out some exciting places to learn and grow close to home. The Cook … [Read more...]
Somerby Residents Write Books, Become Radio DJs During Pandemic Lockdowns
During pandemic shutdowns, residents of Somerby St. Vincent’s One Nineteen found ways to take advantage of the lockdowns to accomplish long-time goals and find new hobbies. Betty Hagel, a Somerby resident since 2014 who is legally blind, was inspired by her family to sit down and write a book recounting her life story. From April to November, Hagel compiled what became a … [Read more...]
Realtors Respond
We asked some of our friends in the real estate business a few questions about the current state of the OTM market as we enter the important spring home buying season. Responses below have been edited for space. Gusty Gulas Associate Broker-Team Leader, Gusty Gulas Group In what ways has the pandemic affected the OTM real estate market? The pandemic has allowed … [Read more...]
If You Give a Mom a Cookie: Vestavia Hills-Based Patricia-Irene’s Gives Back to Local Nonprofits Through Baked Goods
By Emily Williams-Robertshaw When the time came for Vestavia Hills mother of two Kathryn Yarbrough to step back from her career in nonprofit management with UAB, she knew she still wanted to work in some way. While she doesn’t consider herself a pastry chef by any means, a pandemic goal to master the macaron gave birth to a new neighborhood baking venture, … [Read more...]
A Good Mix: Part Grocery, Part Restaurant, Backyard Market Caters to Neighbors’ Needs
By Sam Prickett After spending 10 years working in the grocery business, Jeff Gentry saw an opportunity to fill a gap in his hometown of Vestavia Hills. “I’ve lived in Vestavia my whole life, and on this side of town there’s just not really anywhere to go to get a cheeseburger, a beer, a bottle of wine, a piece of gouda — just the bare necessities,” he said. “There’s not … [Read more...]