By Emily Williams For Ralph Hardwick, nothing sounds less pleasing than spending retirement sitting around and waiting for something to happen. “I have two suggestions for anyone who is looking to retire,” Hardwick said. “One: Don’t have a mortgage. Have your house completely paid for. Two: Have a hobby.” Hardwick’s hobby of choice found him 46 years ago, when he was in his … [Read more...]
College Graduate at 85: Vestavia Hills Woman Finishes What She Started
By Sarah Kuper Lottie Jacks feels like any recent college graduate – glad not to have to study for another final or drag herself to an 8 a.m. class after a long night of studying. But unlike the average Samford University grad, Jacks is 85 years old. The octogenarian walked across the Wright Center stage May 14 to receive her degree in biology nearly 65 years after she began … [Read more...]
Seasoned Performer: Former Teacher Publishes, Performs First Children’s Book
By Emily Williams Homewood's M.H. Smith has always had a passion for writing and for teaching children, but she never foresaw writing and performing a series of children's stories or publishing her own children's book. In retirement, she has done just that. Smith’s “Too Many Elephants,” was published this year. The educational story has been performed for preschoolers for … [Read more...]
The Lady in Red: Homewood Man’s Love Affair Helps Save the Alabama Theatre
By Emily WilliamsFor more than 30 years, Tom Cronier of Homewood has devoted his free time to a lady in red. Big Bertha, the acclaimed Wurlitzer pipe organ that resides in the Alabama Theatre, has led Cronier, and subsequently his wife, Loretta, to a life of service to Birmingham’s growing Theater District. His love of the instrument has been a lifelong passion, and … [Read more...]
Late in Life Librarian: Lifelong Love of Books Prompts Retirees to Give Back
By Sarah Kuper The bookstore on the lower level of the Homewood Library is home to hundreds of used books, movies and magazines. Most cost one dollar or less. The store is almost completely staffed by volunteer members of Friends of the Library – a group of individuals who believe in the importance of a quality local library. Sue Thomas says she is spending her retirement … [Read more...]