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...]
Representing Kids With Arthritis: Homewood Pre-Teen Chosen as Jingle Bell Run Youth Honoree
By Sarah Kuper Creative and determined – those are the words Meg Wallace uses to describe her 11-year-old son, Cooper, who suffers from juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Cooper is this year’s youth honoree for the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run. In addition to being well-spoken and intelligent, Cooper is an accomplished writer and storyteller – skills that recommend him … [Read more...]
Catalyst for Adventure: New Classes Teach Rock Climbing for People With Physical or Sensory Impairments
By Sarah KuperRock climbing can be an exhilarating outdoor activity and a way to stay fit at an indoor gym. But for some, climbing may seem impossible because of conditions such as cerebral palsy, amputations or other disabilities.This month, High Point Climbing and Fitness has partnered with Catalyst Sports to show those with physical or sensory impairments that … [Read more...]
Late-in-Life Calling: Presbyterian Minister Converts to Catholicism and Joins the Sisterhood
By Sarah KuperGrowing up, Sara Burress was one of many faithful Presbyterians in her small Mississippi hometown.“Whenever the church doors were open, our family was there,” she said.In fact, Burress’s Presbyterian roots run deep; one of her Scottish ancestors journeyed to colonial America to found a Presbyterian church in South Carolina.That’s why it is … [Read more...]
A Tour Guide to College Campuses: Birmingham Business Takes the Legwork out of Organizing College Search
By Sarah KuperThe fall season for Over the Mountain high school students is in full swing with pep rallies and Friday night lights. But looming over the fun of a student’s senior year is the deadline for a big decision – where to apply to college.Now, one Birmingham business is helping take the stress out of at least one step in the process. Several times a year, … [Read more...]