Written and Photographed by Marika N. Johnson | For the Birmingham Times
The gala brought together civic leaders, business professionals, community advocates and residents for an evening recognizing individuals whose work has left a lasting mark across Birmingham. Honorees represented a variety of fields, including public service, education, business, faith, arts and community development. Social media influencer and author LaDarrius “LHUT” Hutcherson served as the evening’s emcee, guiding guests through the program and adding a touch of humor while celebrating each honoree’s accomplishments.
Throughout the evening, attendees celebrated Birmingham’s history while honoring individuals whose contributions continue to inspire future generations.
Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, businessman Larry Allen, founder of the Birmingham Heritage Festival, emphasized that his success was a collaborative effort. “I didn’t do this by myself. It took a lot of folks,” he said, thanking former Birmingham Mayor Richard Arrington Jr., former Jefferson County Commissioner Jeff Germany, and his wife and business partner, Linda Allen. Allen reflected with pride on the festival’s peak years, when it welcomed more than 100,000 visitors over a single weekend.
“Black businesses and people enjoyed a weekend of music with no incidents,” he said before closing with a call for unity: “We must all stick together.”
Former NFL player Mario Addison also received a Lifetime Achievement Award. A Tarrant High School graduate who signed with the Chicago Bears and concluded his 12-year NFL career with the Houston Texans. Addison said giving back to his community has always been at the heart of his mission.
“I never had anyone who made it pave the way and come back for me. I said if I ever made it, I was going to be the one to talk to the kids, just give back — and that’s what I do,” he said.
Through the Mario Addison Community Partnership, the award-winning philanthropist and car enthusiast regularly hosts youth football camps, food drives, back-to-school giveaways, and other community outreach initiatives designed to support children and families.
The Steel City Legacy Gala served as both a tribute to past accomplishments and a reminder of the importance of investing in Birmingham’s future through leadership, mentorship, and service. By recognizing individuals whose dedication has strengthened neighborhoods, empowered communities, and inspired others, the gala celebrated a legacy that will continue to shape the city for generations to come.
