By William C. Singleton III At a recent Vestavia Hills football game, Penny Downes, wife of Vestavia Hills city manager Jeff Downes, was talking to a parent about what she hopes to accomplish as she regains her strength from treatments for multiple myeloma and prepared herself for the battle that lies ahead. Penny Downes mentioned that, because her immune system is … [Read more...]
Homewood Hopes to Blow the Lid Off State Tax Caps
By William C. Singleton III Homewood officials hope to join Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills and Huntsville as the only Alabama cities exempted from the state’s Lid Law. But for that to happen, voters throughout Jefferson County would have to put on their stamp of approval. When county residents go to the polls Nov. 6, they will be asked to approve a constitutional amendment … [Read more...]
Never Forget!: OTM Cities Set Events to Remember 9/11
By William C. Singleton III It’s been 17 years since the horrific terrorist attacks of 9/11, and the Over the Mountain suburbs are doing their part to keep the memory and sacrifice of that day alive. Hoover and the cities of Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills collectively will hold Patriot Day observances on Sept. 11. Hoover will observe its Patriot Day ceremony … [Read more...]
Metro Plex Fields Open: Phase Two Is in the Books, Phase Three Next on the Schedule
By William C. Singleton III The opening of the new Hoover Metropolitan Complex athletic fields will make Hoover a competitor for softball and baseball tournaments throughout the Southeast, Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato said. “We’re looking forward to bringing people from across the United States, but particularly from the Southeastern United States, who will use this facility as … [Read more...]
Retailer of the Year Nominee Cook Store Gives a Homey Vibe in the Middle of Mountain Brook
By William C. Singleton III The creaking wood floors and wood smell that greet you when you enter The Cook Store of Mountain Brook convey a homey, welcoming environment. Owner Wesley Lassen credits original owner Sam Franks with the idea for the wood floors and walls. Since she took over from the previous owner, Betty Knight, 19 years ago, Lassen has … [Read more...]