By Anne RuisiVolunteer work with Habitat for Humanity convinced Alicia Huey that early childhood education was not to be her career path.Instead, it led to more than 30 years in the home building industry and in February, chairmanship of the National Association of Home Builders’ board of directors.“I’m really enjoying my role. I hope I’m giving back in a meaningful … [Read more...]
Bring on the Brisket: Jewish Community Food and Culture Fest Includes “The Brisket Queen’s” Crowd Pleasing Dish
By Anne RuisiThe delicious aroma of tomatoes, onion, garlic and Mediterranean spices wafts in the air just outside the kosher kitchen at the Levite Jewish Community Center on a recent weekday morning. Inside, it’s a busy scene as half a dozen volunteers chop small mountains of raw onions and garlic cloves for the beef brisket being prepared for the center’s Jewish … [Read more...]
Everything In Its Place: Feng Shui Expert Helps Clients Find Love, Declutter Their Minds
By Ana GoodLocal feng shui expert Katie Rogers said she discovered the ancient practice almost by accident. Rogers was living in Austin, Texas, at the time as an editor for a publishing company. She felt flooded, drowning in what she described as a “sea of gray cubicles under fluorescent lights.” Rogers said she did what she could to liven up her own … [Read more...]
Stress Reducer: Spontaneous Smiles Mean Hand in Paw is There
By Anne RuisiMacey the golden retriever stretched out on the wide carpet in an office corridor at UAB Hospital and immediately perked up as nurse Paige Batson and office worker Megan Padilla arrived and started petting her.“It’s probably one of the best things UAB provides for us,” Batson said. “Sometimes you come into work automatically stressed and this is a moment of … [Read more...]
Shades Mountain Baptist Church to Hold Egg Hunt for Disabled
By Anne RuisiFor the second consecutive year, Shades Mountain Baptist Church is holding an Easter Egg Hunt for people with disabilities.The event, on April 8 from 9:30 a.m. to noon, is open to children and adults of all ages, said Amy Kirby, the church’s special needs minister.“We try to support families and make their lives easier and fun,” Kirby said.The event … [Read more...]