By Sarah Kuper Dr. Neal Berte, president emeritus of Birmingham-Southern College, will receive the Jemison Visionary Award at the Jan. 23 Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. Berte served as president of BSC for more than 28 years, seeing the institution through hard times and many changes. A prominent figure in higher education, Berte was dean of the New College and … [Read more...]
A Doll’s House: A Childhood Surrounded by Fame and a Career Inspired by Beauty and Make-Believe
By Sarah KuperIt has been 40 years since 82-year-old Mary Charles Robbins opened her fine doll and miniatures store in Mountain Brook Village.Originally intended as an antique store, she and four other ladies opened the shop with no retail experience or seed money. They soon learned there was a high demand for antique dolls, accessories and doll repair … [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...]