By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

Although born and raised in the Hoover area, Greg Glass is well known in the Alabaster-Siluria community.

His father, Dewey, was originally a “mill village boy.” Glass is extremely complimentary of his father, who, at the present age of 86, is the oldest employee of U.S. Steel in Fairfield.

“My dad raised me to work hard, save money and be courteous. I am so blessed to still have my father,” Glass said.

Glass’s mother, Louise, passed away in 1992.

Many locals remember Greg’s Deli on Highway 119 across from the current Sixth Grade Center. Glass was the owner from 1989-1999. In 1996, Glass opened Greg’s Golf.

Glass runs an honors pay system if he is not at the establishment. The practice balls are in different size baskets according to count – just leave your money and get a basket of balls.

I questioned this system and Glass said, “Golf is an honorable game. One plays to improve himself and not cheat on anything. I trust people – whether I should or not.”

Many of his customers are regulars, and think of the screened porch as their resting spot along with good conversation with Glass.

Having celebrated his 50th birthday in February, Greg prides himself on being a “father figure” to Rose and Bekah Waddell and dad to daughters Lindsey, 25, Courtney, 23 at UAB, and son Tanner, 21, who attends the University of Alabama.

Personal advice from Glass to young people: “Stay in school and get a good education because you can make more money with a pen or computer than with a tractor.”

His love of Alabaster and its older generation is evident in his manners and communication. Likeable, friendly, honest and hard working, Glass admits his favorite pastime is playing pool.

You might find him at Bumpers in Hoover or Papas in Pelham. When not shooting pool, he has worked part-time at The Club as a bartender since 1989.

“I am so blessed I don’t want to go anywhere else to visit or live. I’m perfectly happy right where I am,” Glass said.