BBA members share their idea of the ultimate selfie. They have some interesting and engaging responses

Above: Crystal was sworn into her Birmingham City Council role by her mother, Judge Carole Smitherman. Right: Crystal and her family celebrate her admittance into the State Bar.

Q. Please tell us about your role on the Birmingham City Council. What does your service in that capacity entail?

A. As Birmingham City Councilor, customer service is a high requirement of the job. It is about meeting people where they are and listening to their concerns and needs. My job is all about serving people first. My primary focus is continuing to improve neighborhoods for good, protecting citizens by removing dilapidated houses, reducing crime, increasing affordable housing, and renovating public housing. Working hard, being prepared and creating meaningful partnerships has always been the cornerstone of this administration. I also serve as an advocate and policy changer.

Q. What’s the best team you’ve ever been a part of and why?

A. The best team I have ever been a part of was my college golf team at Hampton. I really developed lifelong friendships with them. They taught me how to push myself past my comfort zone and reminded me that it’s always good to have a good laugh.

Q. Tell us about a person or organization that you admire. Why do you think they have made an important impact?

A. I admire my mother Judge Carole Smitherman so much. I admire her because she is my mother, and she has accomplished so much while remaining humble. She believes that as a Black woman you can achieve it all while still having a successful career. She also believes the goal is to break glass ceilings and bring other women along with you in the process of breaking those ceilings.

Q. Thinking back to when you were a young lawyer or a law student, what advice would you give yourself?

A. I would tell myself to stay focused on your own journey and to make the most

Left: Alongside Rep. Merika Coleman, left, and Mayor Randall Woodfin, right, Crystal presents a resolution declaring Birmingham a Trafficking Free Zone. Right: Crystal passes out hot dinners and face masks at a District 6 community event in West End.

out of law school. I would emphasize that it is important to seize as many opportunities as possible and that not everything is about grades but study better, not longer.

Q. What book are you reading/ what TV show are you watching currently?

A. I am currently watching “This is Us” and “All American.” I am currently reading “A Promised Land” by Barack Obama.

Q. Who is your role model and why?

A. My role model is Michelle Obama. Despite any adversity and negativity, she has experienced over the years, she still chooses the high road. My favorite quote of hers is “when they go low we go high.” I love how she was able to support Barack Obama in his presidency while making a significant and profound impact on the country as our then First Lady.

Q. What is your favorite vacation spot and why?

A. My favorite vacation spot is the beach because the water brings me clarity and peace. I feel like I can be present in the moment while listening to the waves.

Q. What is your “go to” comfort food?

A. My “go to” comfort food is Cold Stone Sweet Cream Ice Cream.

Q. If you could have dinner with any celebrity, past or present, who would it be?

A. I would have dinner with Beyoncé. She is one of my favorite artists. I usually listen to her every day, especially to motivate myself in the mornings.

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