By Sam PrickettThe Gus Mayer brand is no stranger to tumult. Founded in New Orleans in 1900, the department store at one point operated 20 stores throughout the Southeast and Midwest. Its Birmingham store opened nearly a century ago, in 1922, moving several times — from 5th Avenue North to Highland Avenue to Brookwood Village. But a retail downturn in … [Read more...]
‘Lifelong Dream’: Former Briarwood Golfer Opens One-Stop Golf Shop in Homewood
By Rubin E. Grant Ron Smith loves golf and played the game while growing up, including in high school at Briarwood Christian. But he never dreamed of becoming a professional golfer. Instead, Smith set his aspirations on owning a brick-and-mortar golf shop. His goal became reality April 12, when Pebblehurst Golf and Putter Lab, a boutique golf shop, opened in the heart of … [Read more...]
Spark Plug: Jags’ Eberhardt Thriving as a Lead-Off Hitter
By Rubin E. Grant Conner Eberhardt was just a toddler when he became interested in playing baseball. His older brother Reece was playing the sport, and Eberthardt said, “I wanted to get out and try it. I was 2 or 3, about the time I could walk.” When Reece got to high school, he had switched sports, playing soccer for Spain Park. But this time, Eberhardt didn’t follow in his … [Read more...]
Murphy’s Law: Personal Infrastructure
By Sue Murphy Grateful. Thankful. Amazingly, those are the words I’ve heard most since the tornadoes descended on us a few weeks back. The storms themselves were terrifying. Dave and I spent the night hunkered down in the basement bathroom. My cable and internet went out, so my daughter sent text updates: “Now in Shelby County.” “Headed right for you.” It was … [Read more...]
Honoring A Legacy: Samford’s Legacy League Celebrates Outgoing Executive Director Jeanna Westmoreland’s 15 Years of Service
By Emily Williams-Robertshaw Dry eyes were hard to come by in the ballroom at Vestavia Country Club on April 8 as the Legacy League dedicated its membership meeting to celebrating the tenure of Samford University first lady Dr. Jeanna Westmoreland, who has served as executive director of the organization for the past 15 years. This summer, she will retire alongside her … [Read more...]