By Emily Williams Everything was beautiful at the ballet, in the words of lyricist Edward Kleban, and those words are still true in Birmingham as the Alabama Ballet looks forward to its 2015-2016 season. After all, the demands of ballet are rigorous and constant, and that doesn’t change during the summer performance break, which sisters Alana and Ariana Czernobil know all too … [Read more...]
Patriot Power: Berguson Has High Expectations for 2015
By Lee Davis At most schools, three consecutive 9-1 regular season records would be cause for celebration. Homewood is not most schools. “Yes, it’s great to win nine regular season games,” said Patriot coach Ben Berguson. “But we have high expectations here. We expect to contend for a state championship every season. That’s what we want to do this year.” Homewood reached … [Read more...]
A Courageous Mind: Hodges Publishes His Father’s War Story
By Emily Williams When Dr. Andrew G. Hodges Jr. of Mountain Brook isn’t managing his private psychiatric practice or forensic profiling, he is writing. His most recent book, “Behind Nazi Lines: My Father’s Heroic Quest to Save 149 World War II POWs,” was released Aug. 4. The non-fiction narrative chronicles the heroic acts of Hodges’ father, Andrew G. Hodges Sr., during his … [Read more...]
Emmet O’Neal Library Celebrates a Golden Anniversary
By Emily Williams September marks the golden anniversary for Mountain Brook’s Emmet O’Neal Library, which opened its doors Sept. 12, 1965. To celebrate 50 years, the library will host a variety of events for the public. “This September’s 50th birthday celebration is an opportunity to share with the community the library’s commitment to providing quality materials and … [Read more...]
Ashley By Design: Hoover Woman Designs Clothing and Advocates for Women With Down Syndrome
By Emily Williams In June 2012, a dream came true for Hoover resident Ashley DeRamus and her mother and business partner Connie DeRamus. At the National Down Syndrome Congress’ annual convention in Denver, Colorado, the creation of Ashley’s clothing line, Ashley by Design, was announced. Ashley has Down syndrome, an aspect of her life that she says does little to confine … [Read more...]