News Summary
Bob Carlton, a distinguished journalist renowned for his coverage of Alabama culture and Southern food, is set to retire on May 30, concluding a remarkable 40-year career. Starting as an intern in 1979, Carlton’s diverse roles at The Birmingham News and AL.com have made significant contributions to the local media landscape and culinary storytelling. His insightful articles have celebrated Birmingham’s food culture, highlighting key moments and individuals that define the region. As he approaches retirement, Carlton reflects on his fulfilling journey and plans for freelance writing and exploring new opportunities.
Birmingham
Veteran journalist Bob Carlton will retire on May 30, 2025, concluding a remarkable career that has spanned over four decades in reporting on Alabama culture and Southern food. Carlton has been a crucial figure in the Birmingham media landscape, contributing significantly to the understanding of the region’s diverse culinary traditions.
Bob Carlton began his career at The Birmingham News as a summer intern in 1979 while he was studying at the University of Alabama. After his internship, he developed a multifaceted career at the publication, transitioning to AL.com and its subsidiary This is Alabama in 1980. Over the years, he has taken on various roles including copyeditor, book reviewer, film critic, feature writer, and food reporter. His wide-ranging contributions helped shape the narrative of Southern culture in journalism.
Throughout his career, Carlton became especially renowned for his in-depth coverage of Southern food culture. His insightful articles have been honored by inclusion in various local restaurants’ displays across Birmingham, highlighting the significance of food as a cultural marker in the community. His tenure as food editor began in 2008, following Jo-Ellen O’Hara, and he has reported extensively on Birmingham’s evolving culinary scene.
Some notable highlights of Carlton’s career include reporting on the national recognition of Highlands Bar and Grill, which has received accolades from the James Beard Foundation, and covering local events such as a scandal involving chef Timothy Hontzas. In addition to these assignments, one particularly memorable task was writing the obituary for restaurant owner Jimmy Koikos, which was published on the day Koikos passed away, showcasing Carlton’s ability to bring emotional depth to his stories.
As he approaches retirement, Carlton has expressed a sense of fulfillment in reconnecting with former colleagues and interview subjects. He considers his career to be rewarding, particularly in these final months, reflecting on his journey and the stories he has had the privilege to tell. Carlton articulated that meeting everyday individuals who contribute significantly to society has been one of the greatest joys of his profession.
Post-retirement, Carlton plans to explore opportunities such as traveling, volunteering, and engaging in freelance writing, indicating he may continue sharing stories informally. His intent to remain active in storytelling underscores his passion for journalism and connection to his community.
Bob Carlton’s legacy in Birmingham highlights the vital role of journalists in revealing the fabric of local culture. His work celebrates the unsung heroes of Alabama and gives voice to the narratives that shape the community’s identity.
As Carlton prepares for this new chapter, the impact of his decades-long service in journalism will be felt throughout Birmingham, maintaining a strong connection between the past and the future of regional storytelling.
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Additional Resources
- CBS 42: Bob Carlton Retires
- Wikipedia: Birmingham, Alabama
- AL.com: Remembering a Matriarch
- Google Search: Alabama Food Culture
- AL.com: Alabama Dishes to Try
- Google Scholar: Southern Food Culture
- AL.com: Tasting Menu Restaurant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jimmy Koikos
- AL.com: Alabama Barbecue Joint
- Google News: Bob Carlton Journalism
