By Rubin E. GrantWhen war broke out in Ukraine last year, Alex Fourie wanted to return to his homeland to join the fight against Russia, even though he doesn’t have a right arm. “I don’t know what I could have done with just one arm,” Fourie said, “but I was ready to go over and fight. It’s definitely heartbreaking watching my friends being … [Read more...]

By Anne RuisiSurgery was about the only option available in the 1970s when Marilyn Mitchell Waggoner’s mother was diagnosed with colon cancer. Initially it was successful. For almost five years the procedure kept the cancer at bay, but it returned and eventually Waggoner’s mother passed away.“We didn’t then have the benefit of knowledge that we do now” to fight … [Read more...]

By Susan SwaglerThere’s an art-filled – and heartfelt – celebration of life happening at The Joy Gallery in Homewood. A colorful, vibrant show honoring the life and the art of the late Robin Nance Metz is on display until March 12, 2023. Metz’s vivid, whimsical paintings, some of her early work as a graphic artist and the clay sculptures she did later in life are … [Read more...]

By Anne RuisiThe long-anticipated Vestavia Hills Civic Center is open and welcoming residents and others who want to use the facilities.The 100,000-square-foot building is separated into two sections, said Sandi Wilson, a program superintendent with the city of Vestavia Hills, with one side dedicated to the gymnasium and fitness center and offices, and the other set … [Read more...]

By Anne RuisiThe head of The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs, the nonprofit children’s organization that is the primary beneficiary of the Mercedes-Benz Marathon, said that, while the organization will miss the annual event after its last run in February, her group has lined up events and other ways to raise financial support.“It’s a loss but we will be … [Read more...]