Kelly Kazek

2 weeks ago | al.com | Kelly Kazek

Andalusia, population 8,800, is often listed as one of Alabama’s most picturesque small towns. The downtown square is still active with shops and a few eateries, plus Andalusia is a mural city with nine murals on downtown buildings. Ward & Co., a unique store located on the courthouse square, delights customers with its clothing, timepieces and displays of antique toys and signs.

2 weeks ago | al.com | Kelly Kazek

We Alabamians are accustomed to being misjudged from time to time, whether because of our Civil Rights history or because we’re lumped in with Southern stereotypes. The reality of Alabama is far different. The state is filled with kind and friendly people – including some who have changed history – beautiful natural sites and so much talent that it’s hard to keep up with books, music and art being made. Below is my list of the Top 10 underrated things about Alabama. What would be on your list?

2 weeks ago | al.com | Kelly Kazek

In Alabama, more than 680 people have been killed by tornadoes since official records began in 1950, leading survivors to commemorate the storms and memorialize those who died. While there were a handful of tornado memorials before the record-breaking tornado outbreak of April 27, 2011, the number of monuments has tripled since then. Click through the gallery at the top of the story to see some of Alabama’s monuments.

2 weeks ago | al.com | Kelly Kazek

Just before the turn of the 20th century, Montgomery, Ala., was on the cutting edge of technology when it established an electric streetcar system in 1886, the first of its kind in the world. To celebrate that accomplishment and get more people riding the new transportation system, the Montgomery Railway Co., opened an amusement facility called Electric Park in 1904. Click through the gallery at the top of the page to see vintage photos of one of Alabama’s earliest amusement parks.

3 weeks ago | al.com | Kelly Kazek

A stunning Mediterranean mansion with a total of 11,488 square feet is on the market of $5.125 million in Northport, Ala. Listing agent Donna Terry said the home at 14946 Edgewater Dr. is filled with custom touches. “Experience Mediterranean elegance on Lake Tuscaloosa in this stunning 6-bedroom, 6.5-bath estate,” Terry said. Click the gallery at the top of this story to see photos of the estate. The estate features a separate living space.