By Karim Shamsi-BashaStep into room 300 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Homewood on a Thursday, and the first thing you notice is how little you hear. Cloths cover the tables, and the tiles glide across them almost silently, smooth and cool under the fingertips, painted with bamboo, characters and circles. Hands build, sort and slide, as friends settle in to see what … [Read more...]
A Life Well Written: Homewood’s Richard Berliner writes a memoir based on his letters written home from Vietnam.
By Barry Wise Smith Photo by Jordan WaldRichard Berliner grew up in a quiet suburb in Maryland, outside of Washington, D.C., in a family that discussed politics at dinner. Both of Berliner’s parents were journalists having met while working at the same Massachusetts newspaper, and his father spent his career covering Capitol Hill as a reporter. “I grew up … [Read more...]
Senior Living: Where life in the slow lane isn’t slow at all
By June MathewsA few years ago, Vivien and Jim Harmon visited Kirkwood By the River with an eye toward moving there. They were not only bowled over by the beauty of its setting near the Cahaba River, but they also appreciated its amenities and activities.“We fell in love with the place,” Mrs. Harmon said. “It was perfect for us.”Their one misgiving was the prospect … [Read more...]
‘You Can Do This’: Septuagenarian Sets Record as Make-A-Wish Alabama’s Oldest Trailblazer
By Rubin E. GrantPerhaps Susan Vines should have chosen something less strenuous and more age appropriate when she decided she needed to stay more active.But after attending the Make-A-Wish Alabama Trailblaze Challenge info meeting in January and hearing the stories of wish recipients finding hope and strength through their granted wishes, the septuagenarian decided to … [Read more...]
‘I’m Busy All the Time’: Hoover Senior Center Is Almost Like a Second Home to Volunteer
By Anne RuisiYou could say four years of high school home economics and crafting skills learned in her youth laid the groundwork for Helen Tankersley’s retirement and her work as a volunteer at the Hoover Senior Center.At 77, the Hoover resident is an energetic crafter who shares her skills in the community in a variety of ways, including teaching and enhancing the … [Read more...]