WestJeff Magazine - January 2026

IN

JANUARY 2026

H ER

wildest dreams Women's conference celebrates five years PAGE 16

HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS Area team schedules

EXPLORING CLOSE BY Be a tourist in your own city PAGE 24

PAGE 22

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January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 3

Table of Contents

26

24

12

Business News

16

U.S. Steel expansion of Fairfield plant, new Fairfield Milo's

13 Community News

20 School News

14 Health & Wellness

24

Events Feature

16

26

Events Calendar

Hueytown Study Club helps honor local veterans

Tips to avoid colds and flu this winter

Cover Story

Wildest Dreams Women's Conference returns for fifth year

Keeping up with good things going in our local schools

How to have fun close to home by visiting Birmingham attractions.

January events in West Jefferson County and surrounding areas

COLUMNS

8 The West Beat Jesse Chambers’ monthly column

4 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

10 Sean of the South

Here comes the new year

11 In the Kitchen

Kathleen Phillips’ recipe for Double Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls

HOUSEHOLD DROP-OFF

2026 Events

(Inclement weather backup, Feb 7)

May 9

9-11:30 AM

June 13

9-11:30 AM

September 12

9-11:30 AM

October 17

8-11:30 AM

January 31

9-11:30 AM

March 14

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Village Water Reclamation Facility 1440 Pleasant Hill Rd, Birmingham, 35224

9-11:30 AM

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility 3923 Clear Water Dr, Bessemer, 35023

April 25

8-11:30 AM

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, 35223

Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: City of Bessemer Laydown Yard 1205 15th Ave N, Bessemer, 35020 Site 2: First Baptist Church of GardendaleSouth Location 940 Main St, Gardendale 35071 Site 3: Classic Car Motoring 3900 Grants Mill Rd, Irondale 35210

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Center Point Satellite Courthouse 2651 Center Point Pkwy, Birmingham, 35215

Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham City Hall / Linn Park 710 20th St N, Birmingham, 35203

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

For more information call 205-325-8741 or scan QR code Your digital data is secure and will be destroyed during recycling at no additional cost.

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January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 5

About Us On the Cover

Staff

Matthew Allen Publisher (205) 883-1877

Jesse Chambers Content Director jesse@jbmcmedia.com

matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Michelle Salem Haynes Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311 michelle@jbmcmedia.com

PHOTO BY CHRYS FULLER PHOTO

Datha Mitchell (center), founder of the Wildest Dreams Women’s Conference in Hueytown, at the 2025 event with panelist Rhonda McCoy (left) and speaker Tami Burtron (right). For more about the 2026 Wildest Dreams event, read this month’s cover story beginning on page 16.

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 2025. All rights reserved.

6 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

Emily VanderMey Listo Operations & Traffic Manager, Graphic Designer emily@emilylisto.com

Brittany Kenny Graphic Designer

The West Beat

by JESSE CHAMBERS

Happy New Year, y’all. Thanks for reading. As we begin the New Year at WestJeff Magazine, we’re simultaneously looking back and looking forward. We’re looking back at some of the people, places, events, businesses and organizations we’ve written about since our first issue in April 2024. We’re also looking forward to the stories we plan to follow in 2026 – including stories that we've covered before and which continue to develop.

In May 2025, we did a cover story about the city of Bessemer’s new master plan, Gameplan for Growth. We will keep track of the city's ongoing efforts to bring the plan to fruition. Part of the plan is an effort to revitalize Bessemer’s historic downtown, and one project that would help is the renovation of the Lincoln Theatre, an historic movie house on First Avenue North. Efforts to restore the venue for use as a community arts facility continue. The owners – The Holland Project, a 501c3 nonprofit – received a $56,000 grant from the state in 2025 to help pay for the facility’s schematic design.

Many airports in smaller American cities are very important to those communities, and that’s true of Bessemer Municipal Airport, which has made numerous upgrades over the years and extended its runway to 6,007 feet. In January 2025, it was designated as a National Airport by the National Plan of

Integrated Airport Systems. The airport has a 10-year plan, and it will be interesting to follow the facility’s progress.

The Bessemer-McCalla area is booming, with such facilities as the Amazon Fulfillment Center, the new Smucker’s plant, MercedesBenz and its suppliers and the UAB Medical West Hospital, a $400-million facility that opened in 2024. We will continue to follow developments in that area.

The Birmingham-Jefferson County Port Authority opened a new, 25,000-square-foot warehouse in 2025 at Port Birmingham, also known as Birmingport. The warehouse in Mulga is designed to help boost storage and shipping at the port, which gives Birmingham access to the Gulf of Mexico.

Officials said that the warehouse could have an economic impact of $1.2 million, and it will be interesting to track its effects.

Yolanda Lawson made history in Pleasant Grove during the municipal elections on Aug. 26 when she became both the first woman and first Black person to be elected as the city's mayor. Her focus as mayor will be on accessibility, inclusivity and continuing the city's recovery from the tornado that hit the city in 2011, she told ABC 33/40 News after her election.

We’ll continue to highlight major annual festivals and other events in West Jefferson

County in 2026. This includes the Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival, which is set to return to downtown Bessemer on April 25, according to facebook.com/bobsykesblues.

In 2026, the nation is celebrating its 250th birthday, so we’ll preview any celebration in West Jefferson County that marks that historic event. For example, this summer the city of Hueytown will combine two of its big annual events into one to celebrate our nation’s semiquincentennial. The Hueytown Arts Council typically presents Hueytown CityFest at Hueytown City Park in June and the Red White and Boom patriotic celebration on or near July 4. This year, the city will combine the two events into one on Saturday, June 27, according to Debbie Kiker, director of the Hueytown Chamber of Commerce.

In March, WestJeff will present our third annual Spring Recreation Guide, which includes golf, hiking, fishing, amusement parks and other outdoor diversions in or near West Jefferson County.

At WestJeff, we love doing business coverage and community news of all kinds, and we'll continue that in 2026.

We encourage readers, businesses and organizations to submit their news, event information and story ideas. Contact jesse@jbmcmedia.com.

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January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 9

Sean of the South

Here Comes

THE NEW YEAR It’s the New Year and, judging by people’s better. And addicts need lunch, too. resolutions, they think they’re supposed to I’m going to run some 5Ks or 10Ks, for good be doing all sorts of impressive things like causes.

I’m going to do this because I enjoy SEAN DIETRICH losing weight, saving more money, training for running, because I like meeting people, and marathons, etc. above all, because there is often free beer at Well, I’m making some changes this year, too. Only I’m the finish line. making little changes. Big changes never last for me. It’s little I’m going to have more fun and not apologize for it. More ones that stick. So, I’m going to start by making my bed every fishing trips. More camping trips. And I’m finally going to get morning. around to making that honey-do list. In fact, I’m going to write When I was a kid, my mother believed, firmly, that making the list right now, so my wife can get started. the bed set a positive tone for each day. I firmly believed that.

I’m going to laugh more. And if I can’t laugh, I’m going to So, each morning I let my mother make my bed. make someone else laugh. And if I can’t make someone laugh, But now that I’m older, I’ve decided to make our bed every I’m going to drink beer. morning.

More pizza. More pasta. More salad. I’m going to make an Another change I’m making: I’m going to play with my phone effort to enjoy tiny moments in my life. Not just the big ones. I less. Phones are time-suckers. So, I’m not going to play on my mean the happenings that I never pay attention to. The taste of phone. Instead, I’m going to spend quality time playing on my chocolate. The smell of summer rain. Colonoscopies. wife’s phone.

I’m going to tell people I love them. Not just I’m going to eat more bacon. Life is family and friends, but anyone who crosses too short to deprive oneself of bacon. my path. I’m going to use these words A woman named Susannah Mushatt often. “I love you, I love you, I love you,” Jones of Brooklyn, New York, lived I’ll go around saying. until age 116. She was skinny and healthy and she ate a serving of bacon I’m going to say yes more than I say no. I’m every day. But frankly, I don’t want to going to worry less. And whenever I catch myself live to 116, so I will also eat queso dip worrying, I’m not going to worry about it. to offset things.

And if I can’t do any of the above because I’m too I’m going to give to homeless people uncommitted, too undisciplined, or just flat lazy. I’m more often. Every time I drive past a not going to be disappointed in myself. I’m going to eat homeless guy, I think to myself, “He’s just some bacon and congratulate myself. looking for drugs.” But my conscience knows Because at least I made the bed this morning.

ILLUSTRATION BY SEAN DIETRICH

10 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

In The Kitchen with Kathleen Phillips Food Blogger, GritsAndGouda.com

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.

Double Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls I never really need an excuse to bake something homemade, but since January is National Baking Month, I’m using that as leverage to maybe bake two batches of my Double Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls.

If the long wait for the dough and rolls to rise is holding you back, go to GritsandGouda.com for my secret to rising the dough in about half the time!

We may not get many snowy days in Alabama, but that shouldn’t stop us from

Instructions • Pour the milk in a small microwavesafe bowl and add the pieces of butter. Microwave at HIGH for 45 seconds. Stir, and microwave an additional 20 to 25 seconds or until butter melts and instant read or digital thermometer reaches 125º to 130º F. You can also do this on the stovetop in a small saucepan.

• Beat eggs on medium-low in a heavy-duty stand mixer just until lightly beaten.

• Combine 2 cups of the flour, yeast, and salt on a paper plate or bowl.

• Add brown sugar, flour mixture, then hot milk mixture to the eggs in the mixer (in that order) and beat on medium-low until combined. Increase speed to medium and beat 2 minutes.

• If you have a dough hook for the mixer, put it in now. If not, proceed with regular paddle. Add remaining 1½ cups flour and beat at medium speed 3 minutes. The dough will be soft and sticky.

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (countertop). Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rest 10 minutes. Now is a great time to make the filling.

baking homemade sweet rolls like we do!

FILLING • Combine brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon. The butter needs to be very soft or it will be hard to spread on the dough.

Ingredients

• Divide dough in half. Cover half of the dough with a kitchen towel. Working with half of the dough at a time, roll the first half into a 14"x12" rectangle. Spread half of the filling on the rectangle to within ½ inch of the edges.

1/ 3

1 cup 2% milk cup salted or unsalted butter cut into 4 pieces

3½ cups all-purpose or bread flour, divided ¾ teaspoon salt 1 (¼-ounce) package fast rising or Rapid Rise yeast (also called instant) 2 large eggs ¼ cup firmly packed light brown sugar FILLING 1½ cups firmly packed light brown sugar ¾ cup salted or unsalted butter, very soft (Not tub margarine or spread) 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon VANILLA ICING 2¼ cups powdered sugar 2 tablespoons whole milk or half and half (adjust for icing thickness) ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Starting at the short end, roll up the dough into a log and pinch the edges to seal them closed. Place the log so the seam is on the bottom. Use dental floss or a sharp knife to cut the log into about 1¼ inch slices. (This will give you 10 slices). Or cut into twelve (1") slices. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

• Place 10 of the 1¼ inch slices amoung two 9-inch round or square baking pans or dishes.

• Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place (about 85º) 30 to 45 minutes or until doubled its original size. See Tip below for faster rising.

• Preheat oven to 375º.

• Uncover and bake the cinnamon rolls at 375º for 20 minutes or until golden on the tops and do not spring back when touched in the middle. I would rather slightly under bake mine than over bake them if I'm in doubt of doneness. Overbaked rolls equals dry and crumbly.

VANILLA ICING • While the rolls bake, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a medium-size bowl. If you powdered sugar has lumps in it, run it through a wire mesh strainer by pressing it with a spoon.

• Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let rest 5 to 8 minutes. This will be a LONG 5 minutes because the cinnamon aroma will be tempting you. Generously pour the icing over the rolls. Wait another 5 minutes if you can, then enjoy!

January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 11

Business News 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.

U.S. Steel expansion, new Milo's

by JESSE CHAMBERS Milo’s Hamburgers recently opened a new location in Fairfield.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MILO’S HAMBURGERS AT FACEBOOK

Everybody loves Milo’s Milo’s Hamburgers opened a new location in Fairfield on Dec. 6, according to media reports. Located at 7050 Aaron Aronov Drive, the restaurant replaces the old Milo’s location across the street. It offers indoor dining, patio dining and a drive-through. Customers can also place orders using the chain’s mobile app or website. The location will also offer delivery and catering. “We’ve been part of the Fairfield community for more than 40 years, and we’re proud to continue that legacy in a brand-new, updated space,” Milo’s CEO Adam Pennebaker said, according to AL.com on Nov. 25. “Everybody, everybody loves Milo’s,” said Fairfield Mayor Eddie Penny at a groundbreaking for the facility in May, according to AL.com on May 16.

U.S. Steel expansion U. S. Steel announced a capital investment of $75 million to install a new premium thread line at its Tubular Operations facility in 12 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

Fairfield in a company news release on Nov. 3. Fairfield Tubular Operations specializes in producing steel pipe and tube products and primarily serves the energy sector, including oil and gas customers. “This project exemplifies our commitment to growth, innovation and delivering high-quality products made in the USA,” said David B. Burritt, U.S. Steel president and CEO. “We’re strengthening our ability to deliver high-quality, American-made tubular products with greater efficiency and reliability.” The Fairfield Premium Thread Line will increase the company’s threading capabilities and capacity, significantly improving production efficiency through advanced automation and process upgrades, the release states. U. S. Steel plans to begin construction of this proposed new line as soon as all approvals have been received. The project will bring 44 permanent jobs to Fairfield, 40 of which will be USW-represented positions. The company expects the project’s construction to create about 250 jobs.

‘A forever home’ American Legion Post 1228 in Hueytown provides fellowship and support for area veterans, and the post was the subject of our November cover story, which commemorated Veterans Day. Eric Frye, an U.S. Air Force veteran and the post commander, discussed the members’ ongoing renovation of their facility. Post 1228 bought its current building about four years ago and has made numerous improvements to the facility with the goal of opening it to the public for events. “We’ve been in the process of renovating it and getting it ready to be our forever home,” Frye said. “We have approximately two-thirds of our building done, and we’ve still got one main room left to go, and we’ll be able to open it to the public.” The members have now reached out to the public for assistance in completing the renovation of that main room, according to a story in November by CBS 42 News. “We have come so far,” Frye told the station. “Now that we’re down to one room left in our building to be finished, renovated, and once we do that, we’ll be able to open to the public and serve a much broader audience than just our post members and our families.” Any contractors, business owners or other people who want to help in the renovation can send Post 1228 an email at adjutant1228@aol.com.

Post 1228 members Eric Frye, U.S. Air Force veteran, and Darryl Barry, U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Frye serves as the post’s commander.

PHOTO BY BRITTNEY FIELDS

U.S. Navy veteran Joe Stroud with his wife Vera Stroud, son-in-law Michael Wallace and grandson Caleb.

Community News

Vietnam War and during the Persian Gulf War in 1991, including Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Kate Stancher of Quilts of Valor presented the quilts to the men.

The Hueytown Study Club is part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and the Alabama Federation of Women’s Clubs.

Through the years, members have taken part in numerous service projects. For example, they have put on a blood drive, put up “Do Not Litter” signs, offered support to first responders and collected clothing for school children. Each year, the group has a service day on the final Saturday of September.

In September 2024, the club celebrated its 90th anniversary by taking part in the National Day of Service for Food Insecurity and Hunger sponsored by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF HUEYTOWN STUDY CLUB.ARCHIVES

Hueytown Study Club helps honor local vets

by JESSE CHAMBERS

The Hueytown Study Club, a women’s organization founded in 1934, is dedicated to improving the community and enhancing the lives of others through volunteer work.

The club furthered that mission by presenting beautiful quilts to two local veterans on Nov. 12 – the day after Veterans Day – in conjunction with the Quilts of Valor organization, according to a club spokesperson. Quilts of Valor presents quality, handmade quilts to service members or veterans who have been touched by war.

The recipients of the quilts were Joe Stroud of Hueytown and William Rigby of Hoover. Stroud and Rigby are both veterans of the U.S. Navy who served during the

U.S. Navy veteran William Rigby of Hoover and his wife Susan.

To receive a Quilt of Valor, a veteran must be nominated. For all the details, go to qovf.org.

A boost to recycling Jefferson County recently announced its schedule for household drop-off recycling events in 2026. There are seven events scheduled from January through October, with electronics, TVs and paper for shredding accepted at all of the events, according to an Oct. 31 county newsletter. Jefferson County will also accept household hazardous waste at two of the events. Three of the seven events will take place in Bessemer.

April 25 from 8-11:30 a.m.: City of Bessemer Laydown Yard, 1205 15th Ave. N. In addition to electronics, TVs and paper, the county will accept household hazardous waste at this drop-off.

June 13 from 9-11:30 a.m.: Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility, 3923 Clear Water Drive, Bessemer. Electronics, TVs and paper only.

Oct. 17 from 8-11:30 a.m.: Camp Bessemer, 3925 King St. Household hazardous waste will be accepted at this event.

At its drop-off events in 2025, the county collected 59,642 pounds of material, served 1,568 households and shredded 28,600 pounds of paper, the newsletter stated. As of Oct. 31, the county was still calculating the results of its hazardous waste day events in 2025, but both events saw record participation. The county added more events for 2026 due to the success of last year’s drop-offs.

January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 13

Health & Wellness Welcome to our Health & Wellness page at WestJeff Magazine. Each month, we share tips from a variety of sources showing you how to improve the quality of your life in simple, practical ways. Let us know if there’s a particular health or wellness topic you’d like to see us cover. Write to us at jesse@jbmcmedia.com.

by JESSE CHAMBERS

Taking flu season seriously

PHOTO BY WIKIMEDIA USER KEYIDIN28.

OWN WORK, CC0.

ABOVE: Continue exercising in the winter, even if you have to take it inside.

RIGHT: Milk helps provide the vitamins you need to stay well.

BY I, CHEDID, CC BY-SA 3.0

It’s January, part of the peak cold and flu season. Public health experts say we should take those illnesses seriously and strive to boost our immune systems and protect ourselves from viruses and bacteria.

“Flu can be serious and can lead to hospitalization and death,” states the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.

The flu is highly contagious and can be especially dangerous for such high-risk 14 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

groups as seniors, young children and people with chronic conditions. Not only that, but even healthy people can develop serious complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections.

Of course, one important way to guard against flu is vaccination, which the CDC recommends for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions.

Two experts at the University of Alabama at

Birmingham offer some other simple tips for helping to strengthen and protect the immune system through the winter season.

We should wash our hands often to get rid of germs and bacteria. “Throughout the day, our hands often go to our mouth, eyes and nose,” said Dr. Stephen Russell, a professor at the UAB Division of General Internal Medicine and Population Science, in an article at uab. edu/news on Oct. 30.

We should eat a nutritious diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables for natural immune system support, said Caroline Cohen, a clinical dietitian and assistant professor in the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine. “The nutrients that exist in whole foods act synergistically,” Cohen said.

Cohen also suggests that we strive to have “a colorful plate,” which is a visual cue suggested by clinicians to remind us to eat a wide range of fruit and vegetables, thereby getting different nutrients.

“Vitamin C is pretty abundant in fruits and vegetables and works as a natural immune support,” Cohen said. Vitamin D also provides immune support. Both vitamins C and D are found in such foods as citrus fruits, berries, fatty fish, milk and egg yolks, she said. A diet that is predominantly made up of processed foods has a significant decrease in the nutrient intake that helps improve the immune system, according to Cohen Regular exercise, in a program appropriate to your age and physical condition, can help provide additional support for your body’s immune system. Russell suggests that the average adult get about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week.

Getting enough sleep is an essential piece of the body’s ability to defend against infection.

During sleep cycles, the body works to replenish and repair itself.

A lot of supplements are advertised these days promising immune support, but no pill can completely replace the benefits of a well-balanced diet. “While supplements are beneficial for individuals depending on their lifestyle or diagnosed deficiencies, nutrients through whole foods are always going to be the preferred approach and suggestion for initial immune support,” Russell said.

January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 15

Cover Story

Datha Mitchell, creator of the Wildest Dreams Women’s Conference, shares a moment with an attendee during a panel discussion at the 2025 event.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF CENTRAL ALABAMA CARIBBEAN AMERICAN ORGANIZATION

Not afraid to dream

by JESSE CHAMBERS

photos by CHRYS FULLER PHOTO

Hueytown resident Datha Whitfield felt a profound need to change her life in 2014, when she was in her mid-40s.

“I felt very stuck in everything,” she said. “I was stuck in an occupation that was no longer authentic to who I was or who I was becoming. I felt stuck, and I wanted more.”

Whitfield, sustained by her Christian faith, found a solution in the Message translation of the Bible. “I was praying one night, and the Lord brought Ephesians 3:20 to my mind,” she said.

The verse says, “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams.”

The effect on Whitfield was profound. “The scripture hit my heart,” she said. “That’s my life scripture.”

“God was saying, ‘Datha, just believe in this one thing. I can do more than you can imagine in your wildest dreams,’” Whitfield said. “And I had a lot of wild dreams. I’m a dreamer.”

16 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

Using this inspiration, Whitfield left nursing in 2015 and became an entrepreneur. She later became a life coach and also started a boutique. In 2022, Whitfield took on her biggest project yet – creating the Wildest Dreams Women’s Conference. It was successful, and Whitfield will host the fifth annual Wildest Dreams event on Jan. 31 at Kingdom Culture in Hueytown.

“We have amazing speakers,” Whitfield said. “A worship set with music. Vendors so people can shop. We have a catered lunch.” She will also launch her new book, “The Messy Marvelous Middle: Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places.”

“The event exists to encourage women and get them dreaming again,” Whitfield said. It also helps women make connections, celebrate their unique journeys and create deeper relationships with Jesus.

Wildest Dreams is open to everyone. “Wildest Dreams is diverse,” Whitfield said. “It doesn’t matter what religion or color or demographic

Cover Story

you are. If you’re a woman, it's for you.”

Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Whitfield was the child of a pastor.

She’s been married for 35 years to Jason Whitfield, a pastor at Summit Life Church in Bessemer. She has three children and four grandchildren. Her son, Bo Whitfield, is a pastor in Vicksburg.

Whitfield earned her nursing degree at Bessemer Tech and worked as a nurse for over 20 years. She was working at Baptist Medical Center–Princeton when she quit nursing in 2015. She then worked from home with Plexus, a health and wellness company. She earned her life coaching certificate at Principio Life Coaching Academy in 2020. She opened her retail store, Daydreams Boutique, in 2021 on Brooklane Drive in Hueytown. She closed it in 2024.

Running the boutique gave Whitfield the idea for Wildest Dreams.

“I had conversations with a lot of women,” Whitfield said. “I saw that women are really hard on themselves and do not extend grace. I wanted to get all of my customers together to tell them they are special and beautiful, that they are God's children.”

She hosted the first Wildest Dreams event in 2022 at Hueytown’s Venue 3131, but she went into the project with some doubts. “I was afraid no one would show up,” she said. "I didn’t know if anybody would care.”

However, about 80 people attended. “Everyone was positive and encouraging, and it motivated me to continue,” Whitfield said.

Attendance in 2025 was about 150, according to Whitfield. “We may double that this year,” she said.

An attendee at the 2025 Wildest Dreams event. Women are encouraged to get in touch with their faith and to celebrate their unique dreams and journeys.

Women themany 2025vendors at the festival selling authentic ABOVE: enjoying One of the Wildest Dreams at The festival has drawn large crowds of Caribbean food.event BELOW: Kingdom in Hueytown. people toCulture DeBardeleben Park in downtown Bessemer.

“The conference has a fun, uplifting and deeply encouraging feel,” says event staffer Danielle Womack.

January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 17

Cover Story

Helping women in mid-life find a new direction is Whitfield’s “passion,” she said. “Women in their 40s are in a different place. They no longer have small children. They need a new chapter, and a lot of women want more, but are scared to step out and try something new. I want to partner with them. I want to be their biggest cheerleader. The mid-40s – or even the 50s or 60s – can be a new beginning.”

It’s important that women follow their dreams. “When you follow your wildest dream and discover why you were created, you will walk in such joy and passion,” Whitfield said.

There will be several speakers at Wildest Dreams, including Whitfield and two others confirmed at press time. One of the speakers will be Jessica Borklund, a popular on-air talent at WDJC-FM, a Christian radio station in Birmingham.

The keynote speaker will be Clarissa Kenty, who also served as Wildest Dreams keynote speaker in 2025. A Miles College graduate, Kenty is an authority on etiquette and protocol and helps companies, entrepreneurs and professionals enhance their images, build self-confidence and develop their social and communications skills. She’s also a radio announcer and podcaster. Her topic will be “Courage on Repeat: How to keep going when it gets hard.”

“I truly enjoy being a part of Wildest Dreams,” Kenty said. “It’s more than an experience — it’s a powerful reminder that vision, faith and bold expectation still matter. Every time I participate, I’m inspired by the possibility of what God can do when we dare to believe bigger. It's vital for women to support each other’s dreams because God never designed us to walk out our purpose alone.”

New at the conference this year is the Dreamers CoLab Experience panel discussion. “The Dreamers Co-Lab is a vibrant, uplifting panel of powerful women coming from various walks of life,” said Danielle Womack, who’s in charge of marketing for Wildest Dreams. “Each woman brings her own story, her own journey and her own experience of what it looks like to follow God into the dreams He’s placed on her heart.”

The panel discussion “will allow more women to be heard,” Whitfield said.

For the first time, the conference will boast its own Wildest Dreams House Band, made up of members from Summit Life Church and Kingdom Culture, with band director Jennifer Ellis. Music is very important at the event. “This conference is all about God,” Ellis said. “As Christians, our main focus should always be worshiping our creator, and song is a big part of that.”

Widest Dreams will feature numerous vendors, including Charchie Mae Boutique, selling ladies clothing; Revive Message Therapy; Perma Linx Jewelry; Just Lenx; Olivia’s Closet, a kids clothes business; and His Living Word, offering gift items.

18 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

The musical headliners for the 2025 Hueytown CityFest will be the popular country band Restless Road.

Whitfield’s book, “The Messy Marvelous Middle,” is being published by Brookstone Publishing Group. “The book is stories of my own life and lessons I've learned, and it encourages readers to find themselves in my stories.” Her book tour begins in February.

PHOTO BY DELIGHT MARKETING COLLECTIVE AND LORI YOUNGBLOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

The Wildest Dreams event is also a family affair for Whitfield. Her daughter, photographer Sophie Whitfield, is on the event team. Her daughter, Jade Cunningham, and Jade’s husband, Jeremy, who own a video production company, help with the event. Her daughter-in-law, Chelsea Whitfield, will be on the Dreamers Co-Lab panel. “I'm super blessed to have my family involved,” Whitfield said.

Whitfield's mother, Charlotte Wilson, will be a special guest at Wildest Dreams. “She’s a favorite at the conference,” Whitfield said. “She’s talented and so witty. She always speaks and keeps us all rolling. Her and my dad were in the ministry for 60 years, so she has lots of stories.”

ABOVE: In 2026, Wildest Dreams will have its own house band, and music is important to the event. “This conference is all about God,” says band director Jennifer Ellis. “As Christians, our focus should always be worshiping our creator, and song is a big part of that.” BELOW (right); Datha Mitchell spending time with some attendees at last year’s conference.

Each woman brings her own story, her own journey and her own experience of what it looks like to follow God into the dreams He’s placed on her heart.”

—DANIELLE WOMACK, marketing director for Wildest Dreams

The members of the event team find Wildest Dreams to be very inspiring. “I love being a part of this conference,” Ellis said. “God does so many great things in a short period of time. The feeling of the conference is celebratory, and I’d definitely describe it as electric, encouraging.”

“The entire conference has such a fun, uplifting and deeply encouraging feel to it,” Womack said. “It creates space for women to breathe, connect and hear from God in ways that feel practical and life-giving.”

As the host, Whitfield “truly knows how to create an atmosphere where people feel seen, inspired and cared for,” Kenty said.

Whitfield has other plans for 2026 beyond the conference. Wildest Dreams will have its first retreat, as well as some other workshops, in 2026, with times and locations to be announced.

Whitfield is also excited about her book, “The Messy Marvelous Middle: Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places,” which will be published in January by Brookstone Publishing Group, a division of Iron Stream Media in Birmingham.

“My book is about what the conference is about – to encourage women to dream, to open yourself up to more,” Whitfield said. “It’s a reminder that God can do more than you can imagine. The whole book is stories of my own life and lessons I've learned, and it encourages the readers to find themselves in my stories.”

Wildest Dreams will take place Sat, Jan. 31, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Kingdom Culture – formerly GaryWood Assembly – located at 2730 Allison-Bonnett Memorial Drive. General admission tickets and VIP experiences are available. Ticket holders can also attend a special online event following Wildest Dreams – date TBA – featuring the conference speakers and panelists. For tickets and information, as well as updates on other programs, go to wildestdreamer.com.

Follow Wildest Dreams at facebook.com/wildestdreamsevents. online and Instagram at instagram.com/wildestdreams320. At press time, there were still spots open for sponsors and vendors.

For more information or to purchase a copy, go to Amazon or to shop.ironstreammedia.com.

January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 19

Schools A holiday success

The week of Nov. 17, Hueytown Primary School hosted its annual holiday lunches, according to a post on the school's Facebook page. The lunches were “a wonderful success,” and the school thanked the cafeteria staff, as well as the teachers and support staff. For more about HPS, go to facebook.com/hueytownprimaryschool.

Gobble gobble

A national award

In November, U.S. News and World Report recognized Dr. Walter Gonsoulin, the superintendent of Jefferson County Schools as a Best Leader for 2025, according to local media outlets. The publication chose 25 Best Leaders from various sectors, including business, education, health care and public service, and other honorees include Stephen Curry, MacKenzie Scott, Mark Cuban and Dolly Parton. According to a news release from U.S. News and World Report cited by other outlets, "Best Leaders were selected based on key leadership traits, including empathy, generosity, and humility.” Gonsoulin has been with JefCoEd since 2017 and is widely credited with helping improve the county’s schools. In March 2025, he was National Superintendent of the Year by the School Superintendents Association in March.

A fine arts field trip

The fine arts students at Oak Grove High School recently enjoyed a day-long visit to The University of Alabama at Birmingham, including a special performance by renowned opera singer Erin Wagner, according to the school’s Facebook post on Nov. 19. The OGHS students also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the College of Arts and Sciences from Kelsea Nichol, who is an OGHS alumna. Nichol serves as a program coordinator for the UAB Department of Art and Art History. For more about OGHS, go to facebook.com/oakgrovehsjefcoed.

20 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

The students at Concord Elementary School kicked off the holiday season – and made some great costumes – when they staged their very own Thanksgiving parade the week of Nov. 17, according to the school’s Facebook page. The students also explored their visual art skills with a Turkey Relay in their P.E. classes.

A program boost

The growing Culinary Arts program at McAdory High School, led by Instructor Mia Fravel, recently received a grant from Alabama Power, according to the school’s Nov. 19 post at facebook.com/jacketsnumber1.

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Schools

Boys basketball Schedules from MAXPREPS.COM

BESSEMER CITY HIGH SCHOOL TIGERS

MCADORY HIGH SCHOOL YELLOW JACKETS

1/26 vs Isabella 7 pm

1/6 vs Hueytown 4:30 pm

1/29 @ Curry 7 pm

1/9 @ McAdory 7:30 pm

1/3 vs (WCA) Whitesburg Christian Academy 4:45pm

1/13 @ Hueytown 7:30 pm

1/6 vs Central 7 pm

1/21 vs Carver Birmingham 7 p.m.

1/8 vs Woodlawn 7 pm

PLEASANT GROVE HIGH SCHOOL SPARTANS

1/23 vs McAdory 7:30 pm

1/9 vs Bessemer City 7:30 pm

1/5 @ Fairfield 7 pm

1/26 @ Pinson Valley 7:30 pm

1/16 vs Hueytown 7:30 pm

1/9 vs Hueytown 7:30 pm

1/27 @ Brookwood 7:30 pm

1/20 @ Hueytown 7:30 pm

1/12 @ Oak Grove 7 pm

1/23 @ Bessemer City 7:30 pm

1/13 @ Indian Springs 6:30 pm

1/27 @ Clay-Chalkville 7:30 pm

1/16 vs Fairfield 7:30 pm

1/30 vs Mountain Brook 7:30pm

1/17 vs Helena 11:30 am

FAIRFIELD HIGH PREPARATORY SCHOOL 1/2 @ Carver Birmingham 7 pm

1/27 @ Berry 7 pm

1/19 vs Fultondale 10:30 am

1/7 @ Ramsay 7:30 pm

MIDFIELD HIGH SCHOOL PATRIOTS

1/12 @ Shades Valley 7 pm

1/2 vs Childersburg 7:30pm

1/13 @ Oak Grove 7 pm

1/13 vs Altamont 6:30 pm

1/16 @ Pleasant Grove7:30 pm

1/14 vs Comer 7:30 pm

RESTORATION ACADEMY, FAIRFIELD

1/19 vs Wenonah 6 pm

1/16 @ Childersburg 7 pm

1/6 @ Morgan Academy 7:30 pm

1/21 vs Parker 7 pm

1/19 @ Benjamin Russell 1:30 pm

1/9 @ Banks Academy 7 pm

1/22 vs Indian Springs 5 pm

1/21 @ Altamont 6:30 pm

1/13 vs Southern Academy 7 pm

1/27 vs Huffman 7 pm

1/26 @ Jasper 7:30 pm

1/15 vs Cornerstone Christian 7:30 pm

OAK GROVE HIGH SCHOOL TIGERS

1/16 vs Bessemer Academy 7:30 pm

1/6 vs Holy Family Catholic 7 pm

1/26 vs Banks Academy 6:30 pm

1/8 @ Alabama School for the Deaf 6:30 pm

1/29 @ Southern Academy 7 pm

1/5 vs Pleasant Grove 7 pm

1/30 @ Woodlawn 7:30 pm

HUEYTOWN HIGH SCHOOL GOLDEN GOPHERS 1/2 @ Vestavia Hills 1 pm 1/6 @ Bessemer City 4:30 pm 1/9 @ Pleasant Grove 7:30 pm 1/13 vs Bessemer City 7:30 pm 1/16 @ McAdory 7:30 pm 1/20 vs McAdory 7:30 pm 1/23 @ Briarwood Christian 7:30 pm 1/27 vs Gardendale 7:30 pm

22 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

1/9 @ Indian Springs 6 pm 1/12 vs Pleasant Grove 7 pm 1/13 vs Fairfield 7 pm 1/16 @ Holy Family Catholic 7 pm 1/20 @ Pleasant Grove 7 pm 1/23 vs Pell City 7 pm

1/20 vs Oak Grove 7 pm 1/29 @ Shades Valley 7:30 pm

1/22 vs Morgan Academy 7:30 pm

1/19 vs Fultondale 10:30 am 1/20 vs Oak Grove 7 pm 1/29 @ Shades Valley 7:30 pm

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Events Feature

Be a tourist close to home

by CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER PHOTOS BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER

This January, I’m inviting you to do something a little different: Explore Birmingham, which recently celebrated its birthday.

Birmingham was officially founded on December 19, 1871. What started as a young city with big dreams has grown from iron and steel into the vibrant, soulful, creative place it is today. As a travel writer, I often encourage people to explore new destinations— charming small towns, scenic trails, coastal escapes—but I’ve learned that some of the most meaningful adventures can happen right near home.

Birmingham is called The Magic City for a reason, and sometimes all it takes is looking at familiar streets with fresh eyes to rediscover that magic. It’s easy to get caught up in the rhythm of everyday life. Commutes, errands, practices and deadlines can make you forget that we live near a place people travel from all around the world to experience.

24 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

Events Feature

Many of the places we drive by frequently hold something extraordinary if we pause long enough to notice. Take Barber Motorsports Park, for example. Most locals recognize it as the home of the annual Indy Grand Prix, but tucked within its grounds is the Porsche Track Experience, one of the unique driving programs in the world. Porsche Track Experience Project Manager Michael Gay explains: “We have participants who come from as far away as Alaska, Canada, and even England for this one-of-a-kind experience.”

When you slow down and give yourself permission to explore, Birmingham reveals itself in new ways. Start with a walk through Railroad Park, the downtown oasis that transformed an industrial corridor into a community gathering space. Watch the skyline glint against the water at sunset. Listen to the hum of families, joggers and food trucks blending into the city’s soundtrack. From there, cross over to Regions Field and catch a Barons game or simply enjoy the view of the ballpark lights.

Step inside the Birmingham Museum of Art and linger a bit.

Instead of rushing through, pause at one exhibit and let it tell its story. You might discover a new favorite piece. Or maybe you’ll discover a renewed appreciation for how much creativity lives right here in this city.

And don’t forget to revisit Vulcan Park and Museum. Standing high above Red Mountain, Vulcan is a symbol of strength. He’s a reminder of Birmingham’s resilience, innovation and pride.

From his observation deck, you can see how the city continues to evolve while honoring its roots.

Saturdays are perfect for exploring. Start at Pepper Place Market, where local farmers, makers and musicians turn an ordinary morning into a celebration of community. Pick up fresh flowers, try a new baked good or chat with a vendor whose passion for their craft is contagious. Then wander into one of the nearby shops or restaurants that make this district a Birmingham favorite. You could also venture into a new neighborhood cafe. Order something different. Perhaps an

espresso you’ve never tried or a seasonal pastry that catches your eye. Sit by the window and watch the city move.

Later, ride the elevator to the rooftop at The Elyton Hotel and see Birmingham sparkle below. The city feels both familiar and new from that view. If you’re looking for quiet inspiration, visit a library you’ve never been to (there are more than 40 in the Jefferson County system alone, and Irondale’s is brand new!).

Browse the shelves, flip through local history, or find a cozy corner to write, read or daydream. Libraries are, in many ways, the heartbeat of a community. And each library in Jefferson County has a unique vibe.

Being a tourist close to home is about seeing new sights and having new experiences. It’s about remembering how much Birmingham has grown, how its people continue to dream and how each of us contributes to that ongoing story. When we explore locally, we learn more about the city and about ourselves. We’re reminded of what drew us to the area, what keeps us rooted and what gives this place its unmistakable spirit.

So celebrate the New Year – and Birmingham’s recent birthday – by rediscovering what makes it special. Walk a little slower. Listen a little closer. Taste something new. Invite a friend or family member to explore with you. There’s always something to uncover in the Magic City. Sometimes the best adventures don’t require a plane ticket. They begin with a bit of curiosity and an open heart. Here’s to being a tourist close to home—and to falling in love with Birmingham all over again.

January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 25

Events Calendar

Performance art troupe Blue Man Group will perform at the BJCC in January.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK.COM/BLUEMANGROUP

Western Area Events Jan. 5: 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

Jan. 6: 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.

Jan. 5: 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

Jan. 8: 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

Jan. 6: 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

Jan. 12: 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

Jan. 6: 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

Jan. 13: 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

26 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

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Jan. 20: 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 Jan. 20: 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 Jan. 20: 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 Jan. 15: 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

The Black Jacket Symphony performs AC/DC's 'Back In Black' in 2025. They’ll perform Pink Floyd's 'The Wall' at the BJCC in January.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLACKJACKETSYMPHONY/PHOTOS

Jan. 22: Jefferson County Commission. 9 a.m. Jefferson County Bessemer Justice Center, 1851 Second Ave. N., Bessemer. 205-481-4110. jccal.org Jan. 26: 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

Jan. 13: 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

Jan. 27: Bessemer Historic Preservation Commission.

5:30 p.m. Bessemer City Hall, 1700 Third Ave. N. The Historic Preservation Commission, established by city ordinance, helps identify, protect and preserve Bessemer’s historic properties and districts. The Commission meets the fourth Tuesday of each month. bessemeral.org/bessemer-historic-preservationcommission

Jan. 13: 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

Jan. 27: 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

Jan. 19: 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

Ongoing: Exercise classes. Legacy YMCA, 1501 Fourth Ave S.W., Bessemer. Legacy presents a wide variety of exercise classes for members year round, including swimming, aerobics, aquacise, yoga, cycling, Zumba and Power HITT. Legacy also offers lots of youth sports, camps and health and wellness programs. For details, call 205-426-1211 or go to legacyymca.org

Jan. 19: 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 Jan. 20: 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.

28 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

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 nutrition, computers and selfpublishing. Activities for children include a toddler playgroup and Pre-K storytimes. 205-428-7882. bessemerlibrary.com

Events Calendar Other Area Events Through Jan. 4: Glow Wild. Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Road. At Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration, which runs throughout the month of December, guests of all ages explore a winter wonderland filled with light, color and joy.

“Birmingham Homes and Garden” recently named Glow Wild one of the top holiday escapes in the Southeast, according to the zoo’s website. For tickets, showtimes and other information, go to birminghamzoo.com.

Jan. 6, 13, 20 & 27: Songwriter’s Night. 8 p.m. The Nick.

2514 10th Ave. S. Every Tuesday is Songwriter’s Night at this legendary rock n’ roll venue on Birmingham’s Southside. The city’s best singer-songwriters and original music acts take the stage, and the event is hosted by Guntram Anderlik. After the show, stick around for Late Night Karaoke. Admission is $5.

205-252-3831. thenickrocks.com PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK.COM/BEYONCE

If you want to dance to hits from the 2000s by artists like Beyonce, go to Saturn in Birmingham.

Jan. 7-8: Blue Man Group. 7 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Blue Man Group is a longpopular performance art trio known for their electrifying blend of music, comedy and multimedia theatrics. Their shows feature custom-made instruments, vibrant visuals and unexpected audience interaction. With no spoken dialogue, the experience transcends language and age, making it universally engaging.

For more information and tickets, which start at $57, go to bjcc.org/upcoming-events.

Jan. 9: Rumours ATL. 8 p.m. Iron City Birmingham, 513 22nd St. S. If you love the legendary 1970s rock band Fleetwood Mac, then check out this Fleetwood Mac tribute act in this all-ages show. The six members of Rumours ATL have been performing for about a decade, according to their website.For tickets, go to ironcitybham.com. For more about Rumours ATL, go to rumoursatlofficial.com.

Beginning Jan. 12: Studio art classes. Space One Eleven, 2409 Second Ave. N. From Jan. 12 through May 11, Space One Eleven – a nonprofit visual arts organization – will offer an afterschool studio art program for students of all skill levels in grades 2 through 12. The classes are designed to build visual communication skills and foster creative thinking. For more information and registration, call 205-328-0553 or go to spaceoneeleven.org.

Jan. 13-March 7: UAB Juried Student Exhibition.

Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts, 1221 10th Ave. S. AEIVA, along with the UAB Department of Art and Art History, will host the school’s 50th annual Juried Student Exhibition.

Works in this year’s exhibition will be selected by artist and guest juror Virginia L. Montgomery. An opening reception will be held at AEIVA on nJan. 15 at 5 p.m. Admission is free.

For details, call 205-975-6436 or go to uab.edu/aeiva.

Jan. 16-17: South Pacific. 7 p.m. UAB Alys Stephens Center, 1200 10th Ave. S. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents a concert performance of the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical set on an island paradise during World War II. Chris Confessore of the ASO will serve as conductor. This concert offers audiences a rare chance to experience “South Pacific" in a fresh theatrical frame, blending the immediacy of live orchestral performance with the drama and intimacy of musical theatre, according to the ASO website. Tickets range from $15-$72.50.

For more information and tickets, call the ASC box office at 205975-2787 or go to alysstephens.org or alabamasymphony.org.

Jan. 25: January Book Club. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thank You Bookshop, 5502 Crestwood Blvd, Unit B. The book club will feature a discussion of the critically acclaimed novel “Flesh” by David Szalay. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. 205202-3021. thankyoubookshop.com/events January 2026 WestJeff Magazine | 29

Events Calendar

Jan. 28: Neko Case. 8 p.m. Iron City Birmingham, 513 22nd St. S. Neko Case is a veteran singer-songwriter with a powerful voice who is also a member of the Canadian indierock group the New Pornographers. Case is touring in support of her recent album “Neon Grey Midnight Green” – her first in seven years. Slate calls her voice “nonpareil.” For tickets, go to ironcitybham.com.

Jan. 30: Black Jacket Symphony. BJCC Concert Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Black Jacket Symphony will play Pink Floyd’s classic rock album “The Wall.” The group regularly recreates a select classic album live in its entirety— note for note, sound for sound. For more information and tickets, go to bjcc.org.

Jan. 30: Hot in Herre. Saturn Birmingham, 200 41st St. S. This event is billed as a 2000s and Y2K dance party. You can dance to the sounds of such artists as Nelly, Beyoncé, Usher, Rihanna, Britney Spears, Pitbull, 50 Cent, Shakira, Snoop Dogg, Flo Rida, Fergie, T-Pain, Amy Winehouse, Outkast, Eminem, Pink, Black Eyed Peas, Jay-Z, Sean Paul and Avril Lavigne. The DJs will take requests all night. Attendees are also encouraged to wear their best 2000s-era clothing. Tickets are $24.80. For information and tickets, go to saturnbirmingham.com.

Singer-songwriter Neko Case will play at Iron City Birmingham on Jan. 28.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK.COM/NEKOCASE/PHOTOS

Singer-songwriters can show their talents on Tuesday nights at The Nick in Birmingham.

PHOTO FROM WIKIMEDIA COMMONS BY GABRIEL GURROLA AT THE WAYBACK MACHINE, CC0

30 | January 2026 WestJeff Magazine

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