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Seventy-eight years, two months and a day; the time my mother was allotted to live on earth. In essence, though, we lost my mom 14 years sooner than that, when a mysterious malady started robbing her of her memory.

Many of Hollister's churches share a unique ecumenical tradition, participation in a worship experience called “Holy Stir.” Several times a year members of a variety of congregations gather together to share a common liturgy of prayers, message and music.

Now or later? When it comes to the question of Social Security

 In an effort to bring me and her dad kicking and screaming into 2012, our daughter, The Girl recently bought us iPhones.

Depending on when you’re reading this, you’re either in the last throes of Thanksgiving dinner prep or in a coma from too many helpings of turkey. But if you’re still with me, I’m thinking a bit of reflection this time of year is good.

Simplicity, tranquility and good cheer … these should be your goals in a bedroom makeover project. And practically speaking, your room's size will naturally affect its decorating possibilities and its capacity to serve multiple purposes.

Last time we talked about the bidding slam. It is more exciting because the stakes are very high, requiring a total of 33 points between your two hands … or a really fantastic distributional fit (37-plus points for a grand slam). The real key to slam bidding is communication between the two partners. One of the better tools to get to game (or slam) is the 2-over-1 convention, which is recommended by Larry Cohen and Audrey Grant.

Many of us will have a green bean casserole on our Thanksgiving table, regardless if we like it or not. I was never a fan because it always seemed too “heavy” and lacked good flavor. I have had a change of heart over the last year and began to enjoy green bean casserole. My taste had not changed, but the recipe had. This week, I share my recipe for an “improved” Homemade Green Bean Casserole.

St. Elias the Prophet Melkite Greek Catholic Church will