Education

The influence of a teacher

Tribute to Mrs. Ethalene Harbison Article and Photography by Dr. Rebekah Lloyd Teachers shape lives in ways they may never fully realize. They plant seeds of curiosity, confidence and resilience that grow long after their students leave the classroom. Some seeds take root unexpectedly, sprouting into dreams, careers and lifelong callings. For me, that guiding force was my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Ethalene Harbison. Even at a young age, I realized she saw something in me. She encouraged me...

Home + Design

‘Love what you do!’

Q&A with Granite South’s Becky Sherer Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Granite South Granite South in Jasper is well known for its beautiful selection of sleek, modern natural stone countertops. The locally owned business specializes in unique, sustainable products that help home- and business owners create or transform their spaces with materials that stand the test of time. At the helm of Granite South is Owner Becky Sherer, whose keen eye for style helps drive the company’s success...

Shopping

'We built the business together'

'We’re doing what we love, and we’re doing it together' Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Caroline Sexton - Photography by Caroline Sexton Sisters Carrie Taylor and Kim Ydel, and their mother Joan Smith opened Three Pears Boutique in 2005, their debut in the fashion retail business. Two decades later, while the trio doesn’t overtly market the shop this way, they certainly lean into being a woman-owned store as a unique identity. “We built the business together,” smiled Taylor. “Our story...

Health + Wellness

Realizing your dream

Dr. Morgan Martin on reaching your potential Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Contributed by Dr. Morgan Martin Dr. Morgan Martin of Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Cullman is a double board-certified plastic surgeon. She said she always knew she wanted to be a surgeon. “My mother was a recovery room nurse and this gave me exposure to the medical field and to operating. As early as middle school, I knew I was going to be a doctor and never even considered anything other than...