By Anne RuisiTwo years of mysterious symptoms that began with stomach pain eluded diagnosis until November 2022, when Kathy Polk’s doctors figured out the cause of her illness: stage 3 pancreatic cancer.The Hoover resident and her family were stunned as they hadn’t recognized the symptoms of the often-deadly disease, such as persistent bloat, pain in the upper abdomen … [Read more...]
A Cup of Opportunity: Disabled Employees Staff New Homewood Coffee Shop
By Anne RuisiIt seems only natural that a man who loves coffee as much as Josh Galloway would get a part-time job as a barista at the new Homewood coffee shop, Bitty & Beau’s. “He’s our coffee connoisseur,” Josh’s mom, Michelle Galloway, said of her 25-year-old son. Josh Galloway, a participant at The Exceptional Foundation, was excited to start … [Read more...]
Top Toys: OTM Toy Experts Talk About the Year’s Best Bets
Story By Anne Ruisi * Photos by Jordan WaldSanta isn’t the only one making a list and checking it twice. Over the Mountain shoppers seeking great gift ideas for the young ones should look at these suggestions from our friends at Homewood Toy & Hobby and Snoozy’s/george in Mountain Brook. Please note that toy selections and prices may vary from store to store.Tricia … [Read more...]
Analytically Speaking: Vestavia Hills Football Team Delving Into Analytics Thanks to Alum
By Rubin E. GrantDr. Darin White is a firm believer in sports analytics, both on and off the field.It’s why White launched Samford’s sports marketing and analytics program in 2012 and added the first-of-its-kind Center for Sports Analytics in 2017.White is executive director of the program, which is considered among the best in the nation by leading sports industry … [Read more...]
Spain Park Shows ‘Grit’ by Earning Elite Eight Berth; Spartans, Bayside on Collision Course
By Rubin E. GrantToward the end of the regular season, Spain Park lost five consecutive volleyball matches against stiff in-state competition, including the top-ranked teams in Class 6A (Mountain Brook) and 7A (Bob Jones).The streak caused some doubt about the Jaguars’ postseason chances, with a quick exit in the forecast.The Jags have proven those doubts were … [Read more...]