WestJeff Magazine - June 2026

RED, WHITE, and boom

Hueytown plans big for America's 250th birthday

PAGE 16

A STRAIGHTER path

Morgan Road, Lakeshore Pkwy to be connected

PAGE 10

STITCHING TOGETHER

QuiltFest comes to Bessemer

PAGE 20

H e a l t h c a r e fo r n ext m o v e .

Dav id, our member from Phoenix, Ar izona, stay s active by playing it smar t, whether it’s chess in the park or Tai Chi in the ArchWell Health activity room.

With care designed specifically for older adults, his doctor sees the full board and is invested in improving his cognitive function and overall health. It makes ever y visit feel more personal . And, it hel ps him keep his mind sharp, his body moving, and ever y move intentional .

Scan the QR code or call (205) 336-1535 to learn more.

Big road project, new Fairfield eatery,

Cover

QuiltFest 2026 in Bessemer will celebrate the art of quilting

Community

Hueytown Cityfest & Red, White & Boom, Caribbean Food and Music Festival in Bessemer

On the Cover

Matthew Allen Publisher (205) 883-1877 matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Jesse Chambers Content Director jesse@jbmcmedia.com

Michelle Salem Haynes Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311

michelle@jbmcmedia.com

Emily VanderMey Listo Project Manager & Graphic Designer emily@emilylisto.com

Brittany Kenny Graphic Designer

Who We Are

WestJeff Magazine serves the communities and people of West Jefferson County. Published every month, the magazine is available for free at more than 100 locations in Bessemer, Hueytown, McCalla, Pleasant Grove, Concord, Oak Grove, Sylvan Springs, and other areas.

Subscriptions are available for $40 per year.

Email subscribe@jbmcmedia.com for details on how to subscribe or send a gift subscription.

Does your business want to connect with West Jefferson County residents? Contact us: (205) 883-1877, advertise@jbmcmedia.com, and let’s talk!

All content in this magazine remains the property of JBMC Media, LLC. Any requests to reprint or republish should be directed to matthew@jbmcmedia.com.

Copyright 2026. All rights reserved.

The West Beat

by JESSE CHAMBERS

Creativity is one of the most important aspects of being human. To create, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is to “bring something into existence, typically by using imagination, innovation or intentional action to produce something new or unique.”

Here at WestJeff Magazine, we’re committed to showing off the creativity of the folks who live in West Jefferson County. Last month, in our May cover story, we told you about Deb Kilgore, a Sylvan Springs resident who recently became an author of two children's books, in addition to doing woodworking and other crafts.

In our cover story this month beginning on page 20, we tell the story of the dedicated artisans of the Birmingham Quilter’s Guild. The members are once again presenting a highly anticipated exhibition — QuiltFest 2026 at the Bessemer Civic Center. Featuring hundreds of quilts of all types and styles, QuiltFest will show off the charms of an old and enduring art form.

This month’s issue, as always, includes the Business News beginning on page 10. We’re committed to covering all sizes and types of businesses in West Jefferson County. There are lots of items in this installment, including updates regarding a new farmers market in Fairfield, a new Mexican restaurant in

Midfield, a big road project in Bessemer and several others.

Our Community News section beginning on page 16 will update you regarding two big community festivals happening in June. At DeBardelaben Park in Bessemer, the Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization will once again present the exciting, colorful Marvel City Caribbean Food and Musical Festival.

And in Hueytown, the city is combining two of its usual summer events – CityFest and Red, White and Boom – into one big, festive celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday on June 27.

And as always, check out our Events Calendar, School News and other fun features.

Father’s Day

June has several holidays and commemorations, including Juneteenth, the federal holiday on June 19 that marks the end of slavery in the U.S. June is also Pride Month, a celebration of the LGBTQ community.

For me, the most meaningful day in June is Father's Day, which occurs on the third Sunday, or June 21. Father's Day originated in the United States in 1910, proposed by

Sonora Smart Dodd to honor her father, Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, who raised six children alone.

Father's Day is not a federal holiday in the United States, but it is a national, officially recognized day of observance celebrated on the third Sunday of June—made permanent by President Richard Nixon in 1972.

I have never been a father and, at my advanced age – I’m nearly 70 – will not become one now. But I still miss my dad, Bill Roberson, even though he died in January 1982, more than 44 years ago, when I was still in my early 20s.

He served in the U.S. He was stationed at Pearl Harbor, but received a medical discharge before the Japanese attack. He told my mom in later years that he felt guilty that he wasn’t there with his shipmates when the attack came, and I think he always missed the Navy. He also deeply loved our country and his family, and he worked hard – too hard – and suffered a lot of illnesses and injuries. His life was not easy.

And I really appreciate him now and I wish I could talk to him again for even a minute and tell him all that.

Anyway, if your dad is still here, tell him how much you love him – and cherish your time together.

HOUSEHOLD DROP-OFF

2026 Events

June 13 9-11:30 AM

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding

Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility 3923 Clear Water Dr, Bessemer, 35023

September 12 9-11:30 AM

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding

Birmingham City Hall / Linn Park 710 20th St N, Birmingham, 35203

October 17 8-11:30 AM

Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding

Site 1: Camp Bessemer

3295 King St, Bessemer, 35023

Site 2: Camp Ketona 121 County Shop Rd, Birmingham, 35217

Electronics & TVs: Cable Boxes, Cameras, Cell phones, Computers, Cords, E-Cigarettes, Ink Toner, Cartridges, Laptops, Modems, Monitors, Printers, Remotes, Security Equipment, Small Appliances (co ee makers, hair dryers, irons, microwaves, toasters, vacuums)

Tablets, Televisions, Smart Watches, Vapes

On-site Paper Shredding: Regular Paper (5 box limit). NO Binders, Clips, or Wet Paper

HHW & Recyclables are

and

Automotive: Batteries, Cleaners, Degreasers, Filters, Fluids, Fuel Additives, Gas, Oil, Rust Removers, and Tires without Rims – (8 tire limit)

Household: Aerosols, Batteries (every type), Ballasts, Chemicals, Cleaners, Fire

Extinguishers, First Aid, Gas Cylinders, Light Bulbs/Tubes, Smoke Alarms

Mercury: Mercury and Mercury-Containing Items (thermometers, thermostats)

Paint: Adhesives, Epoxy Fillers, Paints, Removers, Resins, Sealants, Stains, Solvents, Thinners, Turpentines, Varnishes, Wallpaper Cements

Large Appliances: Freezers, Machinery, Refrigerators, Water Heaters

*Rinsed Recyclables: Aluminum Cans, Glass Bottles, PET #1 and HDPE #2 Plastics

Items that are NEVER ACCEPTED

Asbestos, Explosives, Medical Waste, PCBs, Radioactive/Unidentified Materials

For more information call 205-325-8741, or visit www.jccal.org Remember to always #KeepItCleanJeffCo!

At WestJeff Magazine, we seek to provide comprehensive coverage of business activity of all kinds in West Jefferson County – and not just the big projects. We want to hear news and updates about all of the businesses in the area, both large and small. We also report on real estate, construction and infrastructure projects. Please contact us with any tips, information or photos you have at jesse@jbmcmedia.com.

ALDOT and Jefferson County to connect Lakeshore Parkway and Morgan Road

by JESSE CHAMBERS

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) – in partnership with Jefferson County and the city of Bessemer – is currently working to extend Lakeshore Parkway and connect it with Morgan Road. The project consists of realigning Morgan Road and Lakeshore Parkway to form a single intersection at Highway 150, according to a Jefferson County newsletter on May 1.

The project will also widen the portion of Morgan Road from the Carvana inspection facility to Highway 150 from two lanes to five lanes. This area has a growing number of

industrial campuses and a daily traffic count of 20,000 vehicles.

“We’re taking two intersections – two redlight intersections – and combining them into one,” said Chris Nicholson, Jefferson County Director of Roads and Transportation. “That’s going to be a big improvement for traffic.”

Project costs are broken down between the agencies as follows: $15 million from Jefferson County, $6 million from ALDOT and $500,000 from the city of Bessemer.

The alignment of Lakeshore Parkway and Morgan Road will likely be completed in

2027, according to local media reports.

To follow the project timeline, go to jccal. org, click on “Departments,” then on “Roads and Transportation.”

Fresh from the sea

Del Mar Marisquería, a restaurant serving Mexican seafood dishes, opened in April at 7100 Aaron Aronov Drive in Fairfield, according to media reports. The menu includes such items as ceviches, shrimp cocktails, lobster, aguachiles and Cajun boils, as well as standard Mexican-American dishes and an

extensive selection of cocktails, according to AL.com. The restaurant’s owner recommends two of their seafood dishes, according to Bham Now – Pina Del Mar, which is the house seafood pineapple, and Camarones Cucarachas, which are spicy, shell-on fried shrimp. For information, call 205-407-4714 or go to Facebook at “Del Mar Marisquería.”

Bringing dollars home

During the Alabama legislative session that ended April 9, Rep. Patrick Sellers of Pleasant Grove obtained about $300,000 for various projects in District 57, which includes Pleasant Grove, Hueytown and other communities. According to a press release from Sellers cited by ABC 33/40, the representative obtained $200,000 from the 2026-2027 Education Fund Budget for conflict resolution in Jefferson County schools.

Sellers also secured $100,000 from the 2026-2027 General Fund Budget to aid Brighton and Midfield with blight removal. “Each city will receive $50,000 to be used to clean up areas that have become overrun with grass, weeds and trash,” Sellers said, according to the station.

New warehouse for Food Bank

The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama is building a new warehouse in Bessemer, and the project should be move-in ready by June, according to WBRC 6 News on March 28. The new facility at 4336 Turin Drive is about 105,000 square feet, much larger than the organization’s current 72,000-square-foot building on Robert Jemison Road, the station reports. Construction on the project began in

April 2025, and Nicole Williams, the Food Bank’s CEO, told AL.com the new facility “will help us bring in more food and get it out to the community.”

Project Marvel update

The controversial Project Marvel data center in the Rock Mountain Lake area near Bessemer took a step forward recently. On April 21, the Bessemer City Council voted 5-2 to rezone 900 acres of land from agricultural to light industrial and expand the footprint of the project to roughly 1,600 acres, according to CBS 42 News. City officials said the rezoning will allow developers to distribute a planned

18 data center structures across a larger area, creating wider buffers between the development and nearby homes and leaving more room for the proposed Northern Beltline freeway, according to ABC 33/40. Many area residents have raised concerns about the project, including its possible environmental impacts. "It's going to affect us with pollution, it's going to affect us with our power bills, our water bills,” McCalla resident Amy Mims said at the council meeting, according to WVTM 13.

Fairfield potential

Volunteers helping out at the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, which is building a new warehouse.

Leaders in Fairfield are working to attract investment to their city. WBRC 6 News reported April 21 that the Fairfield City Council voted to rezone its largest business district — from Aaron Aronov Avenue to Valley Road to Gary Avenue and Donald Parkway – to multi-use to create more opportunities for development, including dining, retail and housing. “We have a lot of brick and mortar buildings available and we offer a lot of potential from the smallest to the largest,” Mayor Herman Carnes told the station. The city was also scheduled to host its first-ever farmers market at Fairfield Memorial Park Plaza April 4, according to Bham Now. “We want the market to bring vibrancy back to the community and show off Fairfield,” City Councilor Courtney Turner told the outlet. For more information, call 205-788-2492 or contact info@thefairfieldmarket.com

In The Kitchen with Kathleen Phillips

Kathleen Phillips is a food blogger, food stylist, cookbook author and former Oxmoor House test kitchen director (Southern Living cookbooks). On her food blog, GritsAndGouda.com, she creates Southern shortcut recipes. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. Food Blogger, GritsAndGouda.com

Lemon Blueberry Squash Muffins

If your garden is anything like mine, you've got more yellow squash than you know what to do with right now. You've grilled it, fried it, snuck it into pasta, and your neighbors have started pretending not to be home when they see you coming. Enter: Lemon Blueberry Squash Muffins. Shredded yellow squash works just like zucchini does in zucchini bread. It melts right into the batter and keeps every bite impossibly moist without tasting like a vegetable side dish. Tangy lemon, juicy blueberries, and a muffin so tender it'll make you forget you're technically eating squash for breakfast. Your neighbors are about to start answering the doorbell again!

For more easy muffin recipes visit GritsAndGouda.com.

Ingredients

2 large eggs

½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter-not hot)

1 cup shredded yellow squash (also called summer squash, about 1 small squash)

1 cup sugar plus 2 tablespoons for topping

1 lemon

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (If using self-rising flour, omit baking powder)

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (If frozen, do not thaw)

TIP

For perfectly portioned muffins, use an ice cream scoop to disperse the batter into the muffin pan.

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°

• Start with lightly beating the eggs in a large bowl with a spoon or fork. Add the oil and stir.

• Shred enough yellow squash to make 1 cup. Use paper towels to pat the squash dry or squeeze out any liquid with your hands over the sink. Add to the bowl and stir.

• Add 1 cup of the sugar to the bowl. Using a zester or microplane hand grater, remove the zest (or yellow only portion of the peel/rind). Avoid the white part (pith) because it has a bitter flavor. Add the lemon zest (about 1 tablespoon) and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the bowl and stir.

• Measure the flour into a dry measuring cup by spooning it in gently with a spoon. Never scoop a measuring cup into the flour bin. It will pack in more flour than you need or want. Pour the flour over the squash mixture. Do not stir.

• If using all-purpose flour, sprinkle the baking powder and salt evenly over the flour. Gently stir the baking powder and salt into just the dry ingredients on top-not the squash mixture.

• Add the blueberries, tossing them around gently in the flour mixture only. This will help them not sink to the bottom of the muffin when baking.

• NOW, you can stir together the entire mixture. Gentlys tir just until the dry and liquid ingredients are combined. You aren't beating it like a pancake batter.

• Spoon ½ cup of the muffin batter into muffin pans lined with paper cupcake liners. If you don't have paper liners, coat the pans with cooking spray, oil, or butter.

• Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly (about ½ teaspoon each) over each muffin.

• Bake for 20 minutes just until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or the tops spring back when touched. The muffins will be ever so slightly browned around edges.

The Art of Porch Sitting

I come from a long line of porch sitters. This is why I am always on my porch. In my neighborhood, I am affectionately known as “that weirdo freak who’s always on his porch.” This is usually said in a positive way.

But I can’t help it. Since infanthood, the only place I ever wanted to be was a porch. There I’d be, wearing my onesie, crawling on the porch, drooling on myself, and testing the maximum capacity limits of my diaper. Whenever my mother’s friends visited, they would pick me up to take me inside and I would start crying. They would return me to the floorboards and say, “There’s something wrong with Sue’s baby.”

People would continue saying this for many years thereafter.

My current porch is a modest, but peaceful place. You can hear faroff trains, passing through Birmingham. Or listen to neighborhood dogs communicating via International Bark Telegraph.

We have a haint blue porch ceiling. Rocking chairs. The hanging ferns on my porch are my favorite.

We have eight ferns in total. They are healthy and lush because my wife makes me place them in the yard, one by one, whenever it’s about to rain. This is because my wife sincerely believes rainwater is better than hosepipe water. Which is an old wives tale, of course.

Just like the wives tale that says children can’t swim for an hour after they eat lunch or they’ll drown, which is scientifically proven to be false. For decades, however, due to this misinformation, millions of young Americans missed countless carefree swimming hours, whilst their mothers caught up on the latest installment of “Days of Our Lives.”

I often begin my porch-sitting early. Before sunup. I see the whole day begin.

The birds start about 5 a.m., in preparation for sunrise—which is a pretty big deal in Bird World. The birds get louder and louder. Soon, the whole earth has become a bird sanctuary, and they’re all celebrating dawn.

No two bird calls are the same. There are chirps, twitters, warbles, hollers, screeches, cries, hoots, cheeps, caws, whistles, chatters, bellowing, croaking, trilling, buzzing, whipoorwilling,

clicking, peeping, chattering, and chick-adeeing. You can get lost in all the bird noise you hear on my porch.

I don’t know when we quit building front porches. Once upon a time, every house had one. People would sit outside to count cars and wave at neighbors. Today, we have back decks. Nobody counts cars anymore. Even fewer wave.

But then, a LOT has changed since olden days. One hundred years ago, America had sidewalks. Today we have a staggering 80 percent fewer sidewalks. At one time in history, 70-some percent of American schoolchildren rode bikes. Today, that number is getting close to single digits.

We used to have newspapers, magazines, and comic books. Today, we have phones. Once upon a time in America, nearly 80 percent of Americans—even young professionals—admitted to occasionally taking daily naps. Now, only 17 percent of Americans nap.

But when you sit on your front porch, you fall back in time. You see neighborhood cats. Ferns. Birds. If you’re lucky, you might even drift off to sleep for a minute.

When you wake up, you’ll realize that even though things are different than it was a hundred years ago, life is still good.

People are still wonderfully insane. Kids still ride bikes—somewhere in America. Naps still happen, people are just too proud to admit it. People still greet their neighbors. Birds still sing.

And something is still definitely wrong with Sue’s baby.

Home Improvement

Springtime Home Inspection

Check your home for winter damage

As spring brings in more sunshine and warmth, it comes time to inspect your home for winter damage. If hidden problems go unaddressed, the damage will be exacerbated over time. Begin at the top and check the roof. Even down in the South, snow, ice buildup, strong winds and fluctuating temperatures can loosen shingles, damage flashing and expose the transitional areas around chimneys and vents. Minor repairs such as replacing a few shingles or resealing flashing may be enough to restore protection.

Roof inspection may require a professional, but you might find a reputable contractor who will conduct the inspection free of charge. DIY’ers might attempt to visually inspect the roof from atop a ladder, but if the roof is taller than a single story, it might be wise to call a pro. Alternatively, you can use a pair of binoculars, and these days, it is common to inspect the roof with a drone.

Next, check the siding, because hail, freezethaw cycles and wind-driven debris can cause dents, dings and cracks. Wind and sun damage can loosen panels or warp sections of siding. Cosmetic damage may be annoying, but cracked or loosened pieces are prone to water intrusion and should be addressed immediately. Any water that penetrates the building envelope will cause further damage over time.

Although brick, vinyl and metal siding are generally low-maintenance cladding options, certain types of siding must be maintained routinely. Natural wood siding requires regular sealing, staining or painting to help prevent

water and sun damage, and fiber cement (i.e,. Hardie Board) requires recaulking over time to protect against moisture.

Windows and doors should be checked next, because they are among the most common sources of drafts and moisture leaks. Over the winter, seals can shrink, weatherstripping can deteriorate, and debris can build up in tracks, creating small openings that allow air and water to enter.

Seal any air leaks with new weatherstripping around windows and doors. Gaps in the non-moving joints around these areas should be sealed with caulk. Clean away any debris from the window tracks that might interfere with the seal. Don’t forget to check and seal any gaps around the garage door, which is often a problem area for drafts, moisture intrusion and insect entry.

A decorative option for exteriors is to use moisture-resistant trim made from PVC or polyurethane to seal cracks and gaps. Pro tip: If you use pressure-treated wood trim on house exteriors, make sure to prime and seal all sides and edges of the boards to protect from moisture—even the areas that will not be visible.

Protect your house foundation using a twofold approach. Step one is to clean the gutters and downspouts of any leaves and debris that accumulated over winter. If the gutters get clogged, rainwater will overflow them and accumulate around the house foundation, which you don’t want.

Step two: Direct all rainwater at least 10 feet away from the foundation using downspout

extensions and the slope of the grade. This will ensure water does not saturate the soil and increase hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls. Proper grading always drains away from the home, reducing the risk of settlement, damage and leaks.

This same principle of water management applies to all areas of your property. Water tends to flow downhill. If rainwater cannot go where you want it to go, then the water will inevitably go where you don’t want it to go. Clear any exterior drains that might be clogged from winter debris—even the roadside culvert inlets. Although those drainage areas should probably be maintained by a local municipality, if the drain hasn’t been serviced by the time a storm hits, then your yard may still get flooded, whether the drain maintenance was technically your job or not.

Matt Weber is editor of Home Improvement & Repairs magazine based in Birmingham, Alabama. Find more tips and advice at www.hirpub.com.

• Microneedling

• Laser Treatments

• Facials

• Injectables

• Hormone

• Weight

• Intimacy Treatments

Hueytown to mark America’s birthday with Red, White & Boom, CityFest

by WESTJEFF STAFF

This July 4, the United States is celebrating its 250th anniversary, and the people of Hueytown will show their patriotic spirit in a big way.

To do so, Hueytown is combining two of its biggest annual events –Hueytown Cityfest and the Red, White & Boom Patriotic Celebration – into one celebration.

The city will present the combined Hueytown Cityfest & Red, White & Boom at Hueytown City Park on Saturday, June 27, from 3-9 p.m, according to Debbie Kiker, director of the Hueytown Chamber of Commerce. The family-friendly event will feature live music from local and national performers, food trucks and a fireworks display.

One change this year for the combined event – there will be no vendors, due to a lack of space, Kiker said.

“We combined the events to bring the community together for one bigger, better celebration—maximizing resources, entertainment and impact as we honor the 250th anniversary of the USA with a truly unforgettable day,” Kiker said.

Organizers are promising a big fireworks show equal to such an

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important patriotic occasion.

“We’re going out with a bang—20 full minutes of fireworks that will be bigger and better than ever before,” Kiker said.

Hannah McFarland, a popular country singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals, will be the headline entertainer at the event. An Alabama native, McFarland began playing guitar at age 15 and soon began opening for superstars like Kelsea Ballerini and Travis Tritt, according to her official biography.

She later signed with The Core Records/Capitol Records and released her major-label debut single, “Hey Highway,” and an EP, “Broken Hearts.”

Also appearing at Hueytown Cityfest & Red, White & Boom will be Doctor Zarr's Amazing Funk Monsters, a veteran funk band, and The Even-Odds. Based in Memphis, The Even Odds are a dance band known for high-energy performances and genres like Motown, soul, funk, R&B, pop and rock.

The local acts include Ava Theros, who is known for her powerful vocals and will perform patriotic songs. Motel Ice Machine is billed as a fun, rockabilly throwback band.

Also performing will be Nick Pierce, a Hueytown police officer who performed at the city’s Christmas in the Park event.

This will be the third year for Red, White and Boom, and CityFest has been presented for several years by the Hueytown Arts Council (HAC).

FAR LEFT: Another patriotic Hueytown resident getting into the spirit at City Park. LEFT: Memphis dance band Even Odds are among the entertainers on June 27. BELOW: Both CityFest and Red, White & Boom have drawn big crowds to Hueytown City Park in recent years.

For more information about Hueytown Cityfest, call 205-903-6312 or go to facebook.com/hueytowncityfest. To learn more about the Hueytown Arts Council, go to hueytownarts.org. You can reach the Hueytown Area Chamber of Commerce at 205-491-7010 or hueytownchamber.com.

There's lots of genuine

Bessemer’s Caribbean Food and Music Festival brings ‘positive vibe’

by WESTJEFF STAFF

The summer event season kicks into high gear in Bessemer this month with the colorful, family-friendly Marvel City Caribbean Food and Music Festival, which takes place in DeBardeleben Park downtown on June 6 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The festival includes a high-energy Caribbean parade, live music and dance, great food, kids activities and more.

“The overall vibe is positive, uplifting, inclusive and festive,” festival coordinator Pauline Ford told WestJeff Magazine.

Perhaps best of all, admission to the festival is free this year. “We know prices are going up, especially in the market and most recently with gas, so we’ve decided to give our attendees a break,” Ford said.

Ford is the founder of the nonprofit Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization, which sponsors the event as part of Caribbean American Heritage Month.

The festival will kick off at noon with the parade, which will include beautifully costumed dancers, masqueraders, drummers, musicians and other performers.

“We are bringing in stilt walkers from Atlanta who will participate in the parade for the first time,” Ford said.

Attendees will enjoy live Caribbean music, including reggae, soca, dancehall, and Afro-Caribbean beats, throughout the event, and the hottest Caribbean DJs will spin all day to provide dance vibes.

There will also be steel pan performances and storytelling, as well as a Kids’ zone, games and interactive activities.

The event features authentic Caribbean food, such as jerk chicken, curry goat, oxtails, seafood, plantains and tropical drinks.

The Caribbean Marketplace features vendors offering unique fashion, art and handcrafted goods.

Held in Bessemer each year since 2019, “the festival continues to grow,” Ford said. “Last year, we welcomed guests from Atlanta, Huntsville, Tennessee, Montgomery and other locations. We have performers who come in from New York and Washington, D.C. because they have come to love the festival.”

For more information, go to eventbrite.com and search “Marvel City Caribbean Food and Music Festival.” For more about CACAO, call 205-683-5324 or go to cacaoonline.org.

QuiltFest 2026 celebrates a vital, enduring art form

by JESSE CHAMBERS photos by BRITTNEY FIELDS

Quilting is an ancient art form that remains popular even in the hightech 21st century.

Long-time quilters work in traditional styles with great skill, and there are many contemporary visual artists taking quilting in new directions.

In addition to practical and decorative qualities, quilting is a powerful form of storytelling, and each and every quilt carries its own story.

As it has for generations, quilting also helps to bring people of all ages together and reaffirms the bonds of community in a colorful and often surprising way.

To show off this art form, the Birmingham Quilters Guild brings together makers from Central Alabama for its biennial exhibition, QuiltFest 2026, at the Bessemer Civic Center June 12-13.

The event features more than 300 quilts in a judged show, as well as vendors, a boutique, demonstrations and two silent auctions, including one to benefit the nonprofit Grace Klein Community in Hoover that fights hunger and food waste in our area.

QuiltFest allows attendees “to view up close handmade quilts of all techniques and styles, from traditional to modern to art and even clothing,” said Gwen Cox, the event’s publicist and a Guild member. You never know exactly what you’ll see. “Each quilt show stands on its own and is unique,” said Loretta Strouss, Birmingham Quilters Guild president and a resident of Lakeview, near McCalla.

As always, QuiltFest celebrates the timeless art of quilting, as well

Quilter Marti Slay showing one of her quilts. QuiltFest 2026 will include about 300 quilts of all types and styles.

as creativity, community and the people who keep the craft alive. Organizers will also commemorate America’s 250th birthday.

“Quilters are thinking patriotically and more red, white and blue, so that’s interesting this year,” Stouss said.

QuiltFest 2026 will feature the return of the Guild’s Car Cozy, a massive quilt that covers an SUV, for the first time in several years. "It's a cool thing,” said Guild member Ann Griffin.

LONG HISTORY

The Birmingham Quilters Guild was established in 1978 by local women responding to a request in the “Good Neighbors” column of The Birmingham News looking for people who loved quilts.

The Guild held its first show in the early 1980s at the Vestavia Hills Library, but the “QuiltFest name came much later – in the 1990s,” Cox said. “Having a biennial quilt show allowing a wider audience the opportunity to view members' work has been a focus of the guild since its beginning.”

The group has hosted QuiltFest every two years, with the exception of 2020, the pandemic year. The event has been held at numerous venues, but the last three have been at Bessemer Civic Center. Attendance has been about 1,000 for several years. “We’re trying to break that this year,” Cox said.

The Guild has 200 members, according to Griffin, a long-time Hueytown resident who joined in 2011. She’s co-chair of QuiltFest 2026, along with Chilton County resident Sharon Hosch.

FUN AT THE EVENT

QuillFest offers many events and activities during its two-day run, including fun, hands-on activities for kids. There are typically 10 or 12 “quilting-centric” vendors at the event, Cox said.

Gloves are provided so attendees can examine the quilts on exhibit, assisted by one of the Guild’s docents. “Every attendee is encouraged to cast a vote for their favorite, and the Viewers Choice is announced at the end of the show,” she said.

At the Bed-Turning Event, held twice a day, attendees get close-up looks at some of the members’ quilts, while also hearing the fascinating stories behind them.

The stories that quilts tell, or the stories behind them, are a fun part of quilting. “The bookmarks we have, one side says, ‘Every quilt tells a story,’ and I think that’s huge.” Griffin said.

In the Opportunity Shop silent auction, attendees bid on a collection of baskets filled with sewing articles and prizes.

The Boutique is a sort of “curated yard sale for quilters and stitchers,” Cox said. Items for sale include fabrics, pre-cuts, patterns and other sewing items. Handcrafted items include bags, pouches, coasters and small quilts.

The event’s Scrap Pool allows patrons to dig through a selection of fabrics and buy all they can stuff into a Ziploc bag for $2.

The main silent auction, featuring handmade quilts and other items, has benefited different charities each year, including Greater Alabama Food Bank, Pediatric Heart Research and Meals on Wheels.

To honor America’s 250th birthday, QuiltFest 2026 will feature a Quilts of Valor exhibit. “We’ll have a lot of Quilts of Valor hanging around the balcony railing of the exhibit hall,” Griffin said.

There will be a patriotic quilt hanging just inside the entrance where attendees can pose for selfies while wearing such props as red, white and blue sunglasses and headbands.

‘COMMUNITY OF QUILTERS’

“The main thing I enjoy about quilting is making quilts for other people, including friends and family,” said Griffin, who doesn’t sell her quilts.

She has also made t-shirt quilts for high-school graduates. “Kids give you their favorite shirts and you turn those into a quilt,” she said.

Griffin enjoys being part of the Guild’s “community of quilters,” she said. “I enjoy getting together with people – mostly women, but we have some men – of similar interests.”

QuiltFest is special due to the Guild members’ “enthusiasm,” Griffin said. “What comes across is our love of quilting. We also have lots of volunteers who are very enthusiastic and happy to talk about the quilts to visitors.”

Guild members also contribute to the community and “are very generous with their time,” Griffin said. “We do some community programs where we do comfort quilts.” This has included comfort quilts for First Light women’s shelter in Birmingham and quilts for babies in the NICU at UAB Hospital.

“I wanted to do a quilt with some kids, so I went to the Boys and Girls Club in Five Points West and worked with nine kids making blocks that I put together into a quilt that will be in the show,” Griffin said.

DIFFERENT STYLES

Griffin says that quilting is evolving. “People think about it as an art or craft for a ‘meemaw’ but it's really not,” Griffin said, using the popular Southern term for a grandmother.

“It's a popular craft and a popular art medium,” she said. “A lot of artists use that as their medium.

“There is a group called the Modern Quilters Guild, and they don't do a lot of the traditional quilts,” Griffin said. “I went to QuiltCon in Atlanta, and it was fascinating to see the difference. I love their quilts, too.”

With many modern quiltmakers, “it's not the traditional pieces,” Strouss said. “They may have a lot of space in the background. They’ll do circles with zig-zags or checkmarks. It’s free-form, free-style quilting.”

Most traditional quilters “buy a pattern and fabric – a yard or two

You have to be a very accurate person to be a good quilter. There’s a lot of skill..”

– and cut it up into little pieces, including triangles, squares and halftriangles,” Strouss said. “They sew these pieces back together in a color pattern or color way, and you get a big quilt.”

NEVER TIRED OF SEWING

Strouss has been a Guild member since 2007 and started sewing as an 8-year-old. “I enjoy sewing.” she said. “Sewing is something I've never tired of.

“The first quilt I made was for the birth of my first child, and I made her a little quilt,” she said. “Being the mother of three girls you sew everything under the sun.”

Strouss later tried her hand at quilting and found she is “a better

art quilter than a regular quilter,” she said. “You’re almost making a painting with fabric.”

Strouss uses a wide variety of fabrics. Most quilters “tend to use regular quilting cottons, but I can use metallics and satins and velvets,” she said. “I got hooked on thrift-store shopping. I can get unusual fabrics that I couldn't get at a fabric store.

“I make mermaids, so they need quite a sparkly costume outfit to wear,” Strouss said. “Right now I’m making a Victorian house, so I’ve had to hunt things that look like porches, handrails, front doors, dormers, the flowers in the window box.

“I like to be original and don’t like to be copied,” Strouss said. “When I make an art quilt, 99 percent of the time, the people have no chance to find the fabrics that I found and do what I do. I like for people to be more original and creative and choose their own colors and patterns.”

At QuiltFest, Strouss enjoys the variety of quilts. “The colors are absolutely fascinating,” Strouss said. “You can get one that’s so soft and delicate and gentle and one that’s wild and one where people almost don’t care about the color because they’re using up random scraps.”

Strouss also enjoys seeing the children. “Children are drawn by color, and they’re always interested in my quilts,” Strouss said. “Last time I had

peacocks and fish. I will put a decorative frog or turtle in my quilt. I like to watch kids discover. ‘Mom, it's a frog.’”

Quilting “is a way to reach across a lot of generations,” Griffin said. “There are aspects of it that just appeal to a variety of people.”

There have been changes in quilting over the years, in part due to socio-economic trends, said Strouss, who had the advantage of being a stay-at-home mom with time to sew.

“There’s a lot of people that like quilting,” Strouss said, but she believes that a lot of young mothers “are having to work more than I ever had to, so the money has to go to pay for necessities, and they are not free to be at home quilting.”

As a consequence, “the population in our quilt guild is older, Stouss

QuiltFest has a wide range of quilts, including both modern and traditional styles.

said. “We hardly have anybody as young as 30 – or even 40.”

One mythic image of quiltmaking is of a group of women in a quilting bee, creating a quilt collectively, but that is less common these days.

“Having that quilting frame and getting together for that has sort of gone by the wayside,” Griffin said. “I guess with more women working outside the home, they don’t have time to do that.”

There is also very little hand quilting, Griffin said. “We have three or four, maybe five people in our guild who are hand quilters, and I do a little bit of it.”

However, the art form continues to grow and move forward, and it takes skill to do quality work.

“You have to be a very accurate person to be a good quilter,” Strouss said. “You have to stick with that quarter-inch seam. You have to iron very neatly when you finish your block. Your block needs to be nice and flat and square when you combine it with the other squares it will make a nice, flat quilt. There’s a lot of skill.”

Quiltfest 2026 will take place at the Bessemer Civic Center on Friday June 12, and Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. A two-day admission for the event is $10, with children ages 5 and under admitted free. For tickets, purchase them at the event or go to bhamquilters.com.

Schools

Hueytown

Intermediate Students participate in BCBS Walk at Lunch Day

Hueytown Intermediate School students led walks at Linn Park to celebrate the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Walk at Lunch Day. The event promotes walking as a simple way to improve health, with businesses, schools, and communities across Alabama participating. The goal is to raise awareness about physical activity and inspire healthier daily habits. Between walks, students had a blast jumping rope, dancing, and playing games. This day was made possible by HEAL United and other groups.

Quinnen Williams Visits

McAdory Elementary School

Dallas Cowboys football player and Birmingham native Quinnen Williams made a special visit to McAdory Elementary School. Williams took the time to visit with the students and build their love of reading. The Quinnen Williams Foundation is a charitable nonprofit that focuses on helping communities—especially in Birmingham—through programs centered on youth, education, and families in need. His foundation provided each student in Mrs. Turner’s class with Jalen Hurts’ picture book, “Better Than A Touchdown.”

$1,000 grant for Concord teacher

Tammy Pridmore, a teacher at Concord Elementary School, recently received a $1000 grant from the Alabama Power Foundation to help her buy a voice projection speaker for her classroom. The Alabama Power Foundation has given grants for 35 years to support educational advancement, working with elementary schools, high schools, postsecondary schools, doctoral programs and Ready to Work certifications, according to the Alabama Power website. This has been a rewarding school year for Pridmore, who was also named the school’s Teacher of the Year, according to a post at the school’s Facebook page on Jan. 6.

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Oak Grove High School student-athlete receives Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Achievement Scholarship

George Dorman, a standout three-sport athlete in football, track and golf, was chosen from a highly competitive pool of more than 190,000 student-athletes across the state, making the honor especially noteworthy. This BryantJordan Student-Athlete Achievement scholarship recognizes Alabama high school student-athletes who have overcome significant challenges while demonstrating strong character, academic effort and athletic participation. It honors perseverance and success relative to individual circumstances, awarding scholarships to students who have shown determination in the face of adversity. Dorman’s commitment to multiple sports and pursuit of excellence have established him as a leader at Oak Grove and a role model for student-athletes statewide.

Jefferson County Council PTA Awards Ceremony

The hard work and dedication of JEFCOED’s PTA units were recognized at the Jefferson County Council PTA Awards Ceremony, where students were also honored as PTA Reflections participants and scholarship recipients, according to a post at jefcoed.com on April 28. Each individual acknowledged plays a vital role in the continued success of the district. In the middle school division of the Family-School Partnership Awards, McAdory Middle School PTA received honors for Collaborating with the Community, Communicating Effectively and Supporting Student Success. Dr. Montaurius Abner of McAdory Middle School was named Outstanding Middle School Principal of the Year, while Eleanor Brown of Pleasant Grove High School was recognized as Outstanding High School Support Person of the Year. Byron Rembert of Pleasant Grove High School was awarded a $500 scholarship.

Orlando Coleman Named Pleasant Grove High School’s Head Boys Basketball Coach

Coach Orlando Coleman — a proud PGHS alumni — returns as the new head boys basketball coach. A former Spartan who walked the same halls, competed on the same court and graduated from Pleasant Grove High School, his story comes full circle. After PGHS, Coach Coleman continued his journey playing at the collegiate level and went on to build a professional basketball career across multiple countries, including stops in Mexico and Serbia. Known for his work ethic and resilience, he turned setbacks into fuel — growing into a high-level player and now a respected skills trainer and mentor, giving back to the next generation right here in Birmingham.

Summer Camp Registration

Now Open

JEFCOED Community Education Summer Camp is open to Jefferson County students ages 5-12. Camp runs May 26-July 31 Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The camp offers a safe, engaging, and high-energy environment where students can learn, play and grow all summer long. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, a budding scientist, or a sports enthusiast, our program provides the perfect balance of structured activities and creative free play. Registration Fee: $53 per child (non-refundable) due upon registration each summer. Weekly Fee: $132 a week for the first child, and $127 for each additional child. For more information, visit jefcoed.com/ summercamp or call 205-379-5670.

AFRICAN METHODIST

EPISCOPAL (AME)

New Magnolia AME Church 403 New Avenue Bessemer AL 35020

BAPTIST (MISSIONARY)

New Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1026 24th Street North Bessemer AL 35020

BAPTIST (SBC)

North Highlands Baptist Church 4851 15th Street Road Hueytown AL 35023

Smithville Baptist Church

9308 Old Toadvice Road Bessemer AL 35023

The Church at Lacey’s Chapel/ Shady Grove Baptist Church 4644 Laceys Chapel Loop Road Bessemer AL 35022

PRESBYTERIAN (ECO)

Shepherd of the Valley Presbyterian Church

5081 Eastern Valley Road McCalla AL 35111

PRESBYTERIAN (PCA)

Church of the Way

6200 Lou George Loop McCalla AL 35022

Meets at Heritage Christian Academy

West Jefferson Church Guide

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

North Highlands Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2830 19th Street North Hueytown AL 35023

Western Area Events

June 1: Pleasant Grove City Council. 6 p.m. Pleasant Grove City Hall, 501 Park Road. The Pleasant Grove City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. 205-744-1723. cityofpg.com

June 1: Fairfield City Council. 6-8 p.m. Fairfield City Hall, 4701 Gary Ave. The Fairfield City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. 205-788-2492. cityoffairfieldal.org

June 1-July 10. Camp Bessemer. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Bessemer Recreation Center, 100 14th St. Open to students ages 6-13, Camp Bessemer is the perfect place for kids to stay active during the summer, make new friends and create great memories. Activities include indoor and outdoor sports, games and activities; arts and creative projects; team building activities; fun learning experiences; and outdoor adventures. For information, contact 659-746-3406 or acook@bessemeral.org.

June 2: Hueytown Board Of Zoning Adjustments. 4:30-5 p.m. City Hall, Council Meeting Room, 1318 Hueytown Road. The Board meets the first Tuesday of each month. 205-497-0522. hueytownal.gov

June 2: Bessemer City Council. 6 p.m. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The Council meets the first Tuesday of each month in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. 205-424-4060. bessemeral.org

June 2: Brighton City Council. 6 p.m. Brighton City Hall, 3700 Main Street. The Brighton City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. 205-428-954.

June 3: Pleasant Grove Veterans Resource Fair. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Pleasant Grove Community Center, 101 Park Road. The City of Pleasant Grove is sponsoring this event, and all veterans are welcome, regardless of where they live. The event will provide information and assistance regarding any topics, including disability claims, appeals, service verifications and health treatments, Agencies taking part will include the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Alabama Department of Veteran Affairs, Disabled American Veterans and the Montevallo National Cemetery. For more information, call City Councilor James S. Wilkerson at 205-744-1723.

June 3, 10, 17, 24: Wednesday Night Meals. 5-6 p.m. Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, 1343 Hueytown Road. Enjoy dinner

and connect with the church family every Wednesday. Whether you’re attending for ministry activities, a Bible study or just looking for a midweek pick-me-up, these meals are the perfect way to gather together in fellowship. To help the staff prepare, order your meals on the church website at pleasantridgebaptist.org

June 4: Jefferson County Commission. 9 a.m. 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Room 270, Birmingham. The Commission meets on the second floor of the County Courthouse downtown in the Commission Chambers. 205-325-5300. jccal.org

June 4: Making Mats for the Homeless. 6:30-8 p.m. Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, 452 Ninth Ave. Turn plastic bags into sleeping mats for people experiencing homelessness. No cost or experience needed. Bring plastic bags, scissors or rollers. Optional: size Q crochet hook. Help with flattening bags, cutting strips and making plarn. Come serve and make a difference. 205-744-7171. pgum.org

June 4-7: Become the Arrow Classic. Tannehill Ironworks State Park, 12632 Confederate Pkwy, McCalla. This first annual event from the Byron Ferguson Foundation features traditional

archery competitions for all ages. It’s a family-friendly gathering with door prizes, raffles, auctions, novelty shoots and food trucks. Special one-of-a-kind collectibles will be available, and Shaun Ferguson will provide entertainment on Friday night. Proceeds benefit Children’s of Alabama. For details, go to fergusonclassic.com.

June 9: Midfield City Council. 6 p.m. Midfield City Hall, 725 Bessemer Super Highway. The Midfield City Council meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. 205-923-7578. cityofmidfield.com

June 9: Bessemer City Council. 9 a.m. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The Council holds a planning session on the second Tuesday of each month in the multi-purpose room on the first floor of City Hall. 205-424-4060. bessemeral.org

June 9: Hueytown City Council. Hueytown City Hall, 1318 Hueytown Road. The Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. The pre-meeting begins at 5:30 p.m., and the regular meeting begins at 6 p.m. 205-491-7010. hueytownal.gov

June 9: Bessemer Board of Zoning Adjustment and Appeals. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The city’s Board of Zoning Adjustment and Appeals meets on the second Tuesday of each month. For meeting times, call 205-424-4060. bessemeral.org

June 12-13: Bham Quiltfest. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Bessemer Civic Center. This event, hosted by the Birmingham Quilter's Guild, showcases more than 300 stunning quilts and the people who keep this craft alive. Features include a judged quilt show with more than 300 quilts, vendors, guild boutique, make-it & take-it activities, Quilts of Valor, bed-turning and a silent auction benefiting Grace Klein Community. Tickets are $10 per person ages 6 and up for twoday admission. For information and tickets, go to bhamquilters.com

June 14: Let Dee Games Begin. 4 p.m. Bessemer Civic Center, 1130 Ninth Ave. SW. This fashion competition will shine a spotlight on emerging designers and models and runway looks, with live performances, giveaways and surprises. General admission $40, VIP $80. For tickets, go to ticketstripe.com/ events/6293108788066267.

June 15: Fairfield City Council. 6 p.m. Fairfield City Hall, 4701 Gary Ave. The Fairfield City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. 205-788-2492. cityoffairfieldal.org

June 15: Pleasant Grove City Council. 6 p.m. Pleasant Grove City Hall, 501 Park Road. The Pleasant Grove City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. 205-744-1723. cityofpg.com

June 16: Bessemer City Council. 9 a.m. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The Council meets the third Tuesday of each month in the Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. 205-424-4060. bessemeral.org

June 16: Hueytown Planning & Zoning Commission. 5-6 p.m. City Hall, Council Meeting Room, 1318 Hueytown Road. The board meets on the third Tuesday of each month. 205-497-0522. hueytownal.gov

June 16: Brighton City Council. 6 p.m. Brighton City Hall, 3700 Main Street. The Brighton City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. 205-428-9547.

June 16: Bessemer Planning and Zoning Commission. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission meets on the third Tuesday of each month. For meeting times, call 205-424-4060. bessemeral.org

June 18: Fairfield City School Board. 6 p.m. Fairfield Board of Education, Gladys T. Coleman Boardroom, 6405 Avenue D. Fairfield. The five-member school board meets on the third Thursday of each month. 205-783-6850. fairfieldschoolsystem.com

June 18: Midfield City Council. 6 p.m. Midfield City Hall, 725 Bessemer Super Highway. The Midfield City Council meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. 205-923-7578. cityofmidfield.com

June 20-21: Tannehill Trade Days. Tannehill Ironworks State Park, 12632 Confederate Pkwy, McCalla. This annual series of markets at the park begins in March and continues until November. Over 300 vendors offer such items as tools, clothing, jewelry, knives and furniture. Admission free. 205-477-5711. tannehillstatepark.org

June 23: Bessemer Historic Preservation Commission. 5:30 p.m. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The Commission, which helps identify and preserve Bessemer’s historic properties and districts, meets the fourth Tuesday

each month. bessemeral.org/bessemer-historic-preservationcommission

June 23 : Hueytown City Council. Hueytown City Hall, 1318 Hueytown Road. The Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. The pre-meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. and the regular meeting begins at 6 p.m. 205-491-7010. hueytownal.gov

June 25: Jefferson County Commission. 9 a.m. 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Room 270, Birmingham. The Commission meets on the second floor of the County Courthouse downtown in the Commission Chambers. 205-325-5300. jccal.org

June 27: Red White & Boom and Hueytown City Fest. 3-9 p.m. Hueytown City Park. Enjoy live music, food trucks, family-friendly entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display at this combined event to mark America’s 150th birthday. Hannah McFarland headlines the live music followed by Even Odds, Doctor Zarr’s Funk Monster, Motel Ice Machine, Ava Theros and Nick Pierce. 205-903-6312. facebook.com/ hueytowncityfest

Ongoing: Exercise classes. Legacy YMCA, 1501 Fourth Ave S.W., Bessemer. Legacy presents exercise classes for members year round, including swimming, aerobics, aquacise, yoga, cycling and Zumba. Legacy also offers youth sports, camps and health and wellness programs. 205-426-1211. legacyymca.org

Ongoing: Classes and workshops. Bessemer Public Library, 400 19th St. N. Bessemer. The library presents a wide range of classes, workshops and other activities for children, teens and adults. Adult classes include computers and selfpublishing. Activities for children include a toddler playgroup and Pre-K storytimes. 205-428-7882. bessemerlibrary.com

Back

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