By Lee Hurley Seventy-six-year-old Ron Turney grew up in Jeanette, Pennsylvania, approximately 30 miles from Pittsburgh. Back then, Pittsburgh was a blue collar town—much like Birmingham—and Ron’s dad worked for General Motors in the metal stamping plant. Turney attended the University of Pittsburgh where he double majored in economics and philosophy, which might seem odd … Read More
Erica Spray is a Louisiana native who planted roots in Sterrett, Alabama, where she lives with her husband Shane, and their son. Spray owns and operates Simply Slim in Alabaster, a weight loss and wellness spa. Her suspense/thriller novel is about Sadie Crowe, a young runaway trying to make it on her own as a … Read More
Misty Gordon, Executive Assistant to the Mayor Misty Gordon grew up in Hueytown and married her high school sweetheart, John, who she had a crush on from her skating rink days. Married 32 years, they have a daughter Lauren and soon-to-be son in law, Ryan. Misty, John, and then two-year-old Lauren moved to Alabaster on … Read More
By Tim Melton In the sports world, participants strive to attain wins and avoid losses. In January, the most dramatic loss for Thompson Athletics was that of its cherished voice. My heart still aches over the unforeseen death of legendary play-by-play broadcaster Jerry Young. The man I knew was worthy of all the various accolades … Read More
John Myrick has been a distinguished member of the Alabaster Board of Education since its beginnings in 2012. His wealth of experience and expertise in the fields of education, music, and science and his contributions to the Alabaster community have been both influential and commendable. His commitment to excellence has made him a respected figure … Read More
As the first semester of school ends, some of the members of the Alabaster Teen Council share their ideas for making the school year the best it can be. Making High School the Best it can Be In high school, teenagers get a chance to establish their independence and navigate their education, friendships, and more. … Read More
These strong women give up their time to support each other and many others through an annual consignment sale. In 2016, Taliesha Cash, the founder and Executive Director of Sisters CANcervive, received the news that no one wants to hear when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Cash chose a naturopathic path for her treatments … Read More
Honesty, Humility and Service By Barry Wise Smith Mike Lee, the new principal of Thompson High School, has developed three core beliefs that have guided him during his 16-year administrative career. “Be honest, be humble, and serve others,” Lee says. “That’s who I am in my life and career.” Since Lee took the principal’s desk … Read More
How has your first year on the City Council gone? My first year has been truly amazing. This opportunity has allowed me to serve in a capacity that I would have never thought possible. I now see how vital a communicative and transparent team of not only council members but city administrators, employees, and Mayor … Read More
Hoyet Hodgens grew up in Chelsea where he still lives today with Arla, his wife of 25 years. They have four kids, Ellen, Christine, Lauren, and Will, and a grandbaby due in September. Hoyet started with the City of Alabaster over 28 years ago—his first job was working at the Parks and Recreation Department. He … Read More
