By Emily WilliamsThe cornucopias and pumpkins are put away and it’s time to welcome the Christmas season.Poinsettias, greenery fit for garlands and winter-blooming flowers are stocked in garden centers throughout the area, ready for homeowners to deck their halls.Wynne O’Rourke, merchandising manager for Collier’s Nursery located on Old Rocky Ridge Road, … [Read more...]
Tiny Heroes: 10-Year-Old Supports Families Facing the Congenital Defect He Overcame
By Sarah KuperAt 20 weeks pregnant, Liz Rich was delighted to learn she would be having a baby boy. Then during the appointment, the doctor’s tone quickly turned serious. The baby was diagnosed with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia, a potentially lethal condition affecting fetal lung development. But today, 10-year-old Par Rich is doing well and actively helping to bring … [Read more...]
Quiet Strength: Christian Author’s New Book Promotes Humility
By Sarah KuperChristian writer and speaker Richard Simmons has published eight books dealing with topics such as wisdom, success and effective living. Now he’s taking on the damaging effects of pride and discussing how to take active steps toward humility.Simmons is the creator of the Center for Executive Leadership – a nonprofit organization that offers biblical … [Read more...]
A Thanksgiving to Remember: A Trip to Disney is Just One More Way the Area is Supporting Mountain Brook Cancer Patient “Super Sam”
By Sarah Kuper For more than a year, the Over the Mountain community has been rallying around 5-year-old cancer patient Sam Hodnett, more affectionately known as “Super Sam.” Now, after months of support from family, friends and people he doesn’t even know, Sam and his family are getting a Thanksgiving to remember at Disney World from one Alabama organization. The Crestline … [Read more...]
Oysters, Pizza and Toasty Rolls: Award-Winning Local Chefs Reflect on Unique and Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes
By Sarah Kuper Born on the BayouAlthough Jeremy Downey has had oysters on the brain for the past few weeks, (see story nearby) he’s always thinking about seafood, especially when it comes to the holidays. It reminds him of home. Downey hails from Bayou La Batre, so shrimp, crab and oysters are as traditional as turkey at his Thanksgiving table. “We take it in more of … [Read more...]