By Rubin E. GrantThe exuberant reaction of Grace Kingrey’s dad, Dave Kingrey, was priceless.After failing to medal in the 2021 WUKF Karate World Championships in Romania, Grace Kingrey earned a bronze medal in the event this year, held July 3-7 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.“I was so happy,” Grace Kingrey said. “I ran over to my dad and he was smiling and said, ‘You … [Read more...]
Not Looking Back: Spain Park Volleyball Team Trying to Figure Out What Works Best This Season in Title Defense
By Rubin E. GrantKellye Bowen isn’t looking back. A year after guiding Spain Park to its first state volleyball championship, Bowen has put it in her rearview mirror. The only thing that matters to the Jaguars’ head coach is the 2022 season.“I always say it’s a new year and a new opportunity,” Bowen said. “I said that in 2021 after we had a successful season in … [Read more...]
Double Up: Mountain Brook Volleyball Team Sets Sights on Another State Championship
By Rubin E. GrantMountain Brook volleyball coach Mattie Gardner can be forgiven for seeing double as she embarks on her second season.And it’s not just because she has a chance to win her second consecutive state championship. She also has two sets of twins on her team as well as two girls who go by the name Mae Mae.Juniors Mae Mae and Annie Lacey are identical … [Read more...]
Farewell Performance: The Ramblers to Hold Retirement Party Aug. 6
Popular ‘60s party band The Ramblers are calling it quits after 61 years with a party on Aug. 6 at Iron City in Birmingham.“We think this will be our last performance. Sixty-one years is long enough. Please come and help us celebrate,” said band member John Robinson in an announcement on the group’s website, www.ramblermusic.com.Tommy Terrell, Eddie Terrell … [Read more...]
Competitive Expectations: Wood Ready for First Season as Hoover’s Volleyball Coach
By Rubin E. GrantAmanda Wood is ready to embark on the next phase of her volleyball coaching career, although the beginning was somewhat bumpy.Wood was hired as Hoover’s new coach in February after spending the past 10 years at James Clemens in Madison, but it took her a few months to find a place to live near her new school.“I am not going to lie to you, from … [Read more...]