Rising Together
By EMILY REED
Three new principals will begin their journey in the Hoover school district for the upcoming academic year, with each having goals to positively impact the communities they will serve. Emily Dunleavy was named the new principal of Brock’s Gap Intermediate School, Sherita Williams was named the new principal of Riverchase Elementary School and Leah Colley is the new principal of Deer Valley Elementary School.
Three new Hoover principals to begin new academic year with fresh goals, ideas See PRINCIPALS | page 22
By JON ANDERSON
It took at least 3½ years, but developer William Kadish finally got an incentive package approved for future phases of his Stadium Trace Village development at the intersection of Interstate 459 and John Hawkins Parkway.
The Hoover City Council on July 13 voted unanimously to approve a $23 million economic incentive package for the second and third phases of the development, and the council was expected to approve another $5 million in incentives tied to phase one on July 27. Kadish of the Broad Metro development
Hosmer is just one of many new administrators for Hoover City Schools.
already has invested $150 million to
Stadium Trace Village and plans to spend $200 million more for phase two, said Jim Masingill, the company’s development director.
Hoover and Spain Park are preparing for the high school football season.
New principals for Hoover City Schools include, from left, Brock’s Gap Intermediate Principal Emily Dunleavy, Deer Valley Elementary Principal Leah Colley and Riverchase Elementary Principal Sherita Williams. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
are being cleared for the second phase of Stadium Trace Village off Interstate 459. Photo courtesy of Fred Britt.
Editor’s Note By Kyle Parmley
August feels like a beginning.
The calendar says January is the new year, but for families in our community, the real reset comes when backpacks get loaded and school hallways fill back up. For some students, that means the comfort of familiar faces. For others, it means a brand-new school and all the nerves and excitement that come with it.
And then there is football. The sound of shoulder pads on a practice field means summer is winding down and those special Friday nights are almost here.
August has a way of pulling a community back together. Parents are at pickup lines and open houses. Stadiums
will start filling up soon. The rhythms that define our towns from September through May are cranking back to life. Let us know what’s going on in your part of town. Story ideas, events, new businesses — we want to hear from you. Feel free to shoot me an email at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
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CITY
49 apartment buildings deemed unsafe by city of Hoover
By JON ANDERSON
The Hoover City Council in July declared The Park at Hoover apartment complex off Lorna Road to be a public nuisance, with at least 49 of 59 buildings deemed unsafe for occupants.
The declaration came after city officials found what they termed “deplorable” living conditions, including widespread mold and mildew, missing firewalls, gas leaks, missing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers, exposed live electrical lines, electrical outlets and fixtures exposed to water, evidence of fire-damaged wood that had been painted over, collapsed ceilings, improper venting, standing water, improperly installed water heaters and furnaces, open construction pits, and evidence of vagrants living in vacant apartments.
The council on July 13 voted to have City Attorney Charlie Waldrep seek remediation in Jefferson County Circuit Court for the complex, which, with 920 units over 74 acres, is believed to be the largest apartment complex in Alabama.
The complex originally was known as Rime Village and was built in 1988. The property has changed hands and names multiple times and most recently was acquired by a group of owners affiliated with Westside Capital Group in Miami about five years ago for more than $100 million.
Hoover City Planner Mac Martin said city officials have been receiving complaints about The Park at Hoover dating back to at least 2024. Initial complaints related to garbage piling up
and going uncollected for months in some areas and frequent shutdowns of water service, sometimes for three days or more, Martin said.
The garbage issue appears to have been addressed, but more reports of unsafe conditions came in early 2025, with a former employee of the management company sending in pictures of widespread mold in the interior of some units, Martin said.
The Fire Department and city building code enforcement officers in March 2025 visited three buildings to investigate the reported
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issues, and the conditions were so bad that the city formed a larger team to evaluate the entire complex, Martin said. That team found then that at least 51 of the 59 buildings were unsafe for occupancy and ordered that anyone living in those buildings be removed, he said.
“It was a mess — an absolute mess,” Martin said.
The owners of the complex challenged the city’s ruling, claiming city staff were being overzealous, but the city’s Board of Code Appeals sided with city staff and upheld the
“unsafe for occupancy” status, Martin said.
City staff and the Fire Department worked with the owners to develop a remediation plan to bring the buildings and campus up to code, Martin said. The owners got permits for mold remediation in three buildings, and some work has been done, but there was not much followthrough on the remediation plan by a year later this spring, he said.
A follow-up inspection in April of this year confirmed that unsafe conditions remained in at least 49 buildings, and city staff also found evidence of significant work being done without permits and proper inspections, Martin said. People were still living in the unsafe buildings, and piecemeal repairs being done on private water lines within the complex have continued to leave residents without water for extended periods of time, he said.
Jakub Hejl, a principal with Westside Capital Group, said owners already have spent more than $10 million on The Park at Hoover since acquiring it. He said his company managed the complex successfully the first two years, but other owners brought in another management company, and they’ve had some problems since that time.
His company took on a greater ownership role within the past year and is managing it once again, he said. They are committed to remedying the problems, he said.
Chris Moulder, an engineer for the owners, said the buildings should be able to be refurbished instead of demolished, but his company, Rimkus, was developing a detailed remediation plan. Hejl also told the council no one was living in the buildings deemed unsafe.
An apartment in the 5100 building at The Park at Hoover apartment complex off Lorna Road shows significant mold damage and deterioration in April 2026. Photo courtesy of city of Hoover.
CITY
Hoover council to vote on Grandview stand-alone ER
By JON ANDERSON
The Hoover City Council on Aug. 10 is slated to consider whether to allow a stand-alone emergency department for Grandview Medical Center on Valleydale Road near Interstate 65.
The proposed emergency department would be on the south side of Valleydale Road, between the traffic lights at the westernmost entrance to the Southlake community and the Lowe’s Home Improvement store, right next to the Circle K gasoline station and convenience store.
Grandview received state approval for its 11,430-square-foot emergency department at 2137 Valleydale Road in May 2024. The city of Hoover, the Hoover Health Care Authority, and area fire and rescue departments supported the location. But the development requires official conditional use approval by the City Council, and the Hoover Planning and Zoning Commission on July 6 voted 8-0 to recommend approval.
There are two access points proposed for the new stand-alone emergency department on Valleydale Road, one at the traffic light leading to the Southlake community and a right-in, rightout access point between that traffic light and the traffic light at Lowe’s.
That section of road had about 25,000 vehicles per day in 2024, according to traffic counts done by the Alabama Department of Transportation, and the stand-alone emergency department is expected to generate another 20 vehicles per hour in the peak traffic hours of 7:15-8:15 a.m. and 4-5 p.m., according to a traffic study done by KCI Technologies.
City Planner Mac Martin said property to the south is in Indian Springs Village and zoned for single-family residential use. Anyone within
to
500 feet of the emergency department site was notified about the zoning request, he said.
Also, the emergency department is required to have a 25-foot undisturbed buffer between itself and the residential property, plus a 25-foot
area where disturbed land is replaced by landscaping, Martin said. The emergency department plans to put a mix of replacement trees in that additional buffer zone, he said.
Ian Anderson, a representative for
Grandview, noted that the emergency department would be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and is required by the state to have a helipad. It also will have more than 50 parking spaces, he said.
Grandview Medical Center wants
put a stand-alone emergency department at 2137 Valleydale Road, across from Southlake in the area shown in yellow. Map courtesy of city of Hoover.
BUSINESS
Business Happenings
NOW OPEN
Cake Me Up Dessert Shop was scheduled to open July 25 at 5190 Medford Drive, Suite 124, next to Jubilee Joe’s. The sweets shop offers Brazilian-inspired desserts, artisan cakes and fresh coffee. Cake Me Up opens at 10 a.m.
205-897-6033, cakemeupdessertshop.com
Copper Star Coffee Co. opened in July at 1870 Chace Drive, Suite 150. The shop offers hot paninis, coffee, espresso, soup, cold brew, smoothies, ice cream, Belgian liege waffles and more on its outdoor patio. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-201-4021
Riverchase Pharmacy and Clinic opened July 8 at 3075 John Hawkins Parkway. The location provides an express clinic for walk-in care and same-day appointments, along with an independent pharmacy. The pharmacy offers prescriptions, immunizations, medical supplies, over-the-counter products and free home delivery throughout Hoover. The express clinic is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The pharmacy is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 205-536-6014, riverchasepharmacy.com (pharmacy), 205-536-6019, riverchaseexpressclinic.com (clinic)
Turbo Shine Xpress Wash, located at 3631 Lorna Road in front of Iguana Grill, held its grand opening on June 20 with free car washes. The car wash offers full prewash prep with a brush, free vacuums, a free selfservice mat cleaning machine, air fresheners, towels and cleaning/degreasing products. It offers single washes and wash club memberships. Turbo Shine Xpress Wash is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 205-637-0508, turboshinexw.com
Von’s Ross Bridge, a craft beer and specialty wine bar, opened at 3601 Market St. in the Ross Bridge Village Center. Founded by Brian and Jordan Von Hagel, the wine bar and bottle shop offers beer, charcuterie boards, snacks, board games and space to hang out with friends and family. Its food menu includes dishes like grilled cheese, snack mix and a children’s menu. Von’s is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 to 10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 8 p.m.
205-538-5241, vonsrossbridge.com
Zad Mediterranean Cuisine, located at 2760 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 112, opened and serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Using fresh ingredients, authentic recipes and homemade Yemeni dishes, Zad offers dishes like kabobs, lamb, falafels, pita wraps, hummus, shawarma and salads. It has daily lunch specials (except weekends and holidays) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Zad is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. 205-407-4940, zadmc.com
Second Bloom Counseling opened at 620 Lorna Square. Founded by therapist Jazmine Mann, Second Bloom offers counseling services for families, individuals, couples and children. She specializes in strengthening relationships and navigating life transitions. She offers sessions both in person and online. 205-632-0512
COMING SOON
Southern Steer Butcher will be opening at 3049 John Hawkins Parkway in the Sam’s Club Plaza. The locally owned and operated franchise specializes in humanely raised, sustainably sourced meats including beef, pork, seafood and chicken. The Florida-based butcher shop is known for its signature marinated products, especially steak tips. By the end of 2026, the company plans to
have 26 locations across 15 states. No opening date has been set yet. southernsteer.com
Onelife Fitness is coming to The Grove shopping center at 5569 Grove Blvd. The $19 million fitness center will be 65,000 square feet and include amenities like an indoor saltwater pool, Reformer Pilates studio, indoor pickleball courts, sauna, training space, cardio equipment, fitness classes and more. With a location already in McCalla, Onelife Fitness is also opening in Lee Branch. Construction is set to begin on the Hoover location in October with an opening targeted for 2027. onelifefitness.com
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Hoover native Kim Benner was installed as president of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists in June during the ASHP House of Delegates meeting in St. Louis. Benner is a professor of pharmacy practice at Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy. She has also maintained an active pharmacy practice at Children’s of Alabama for more than 25 years. Her service to ASHP has included terms on the organization’s board of directors, advisory groups and foundation committees. ashp.org
PERSONNEL MOVES
Diversicare of Riverchase, located at 2500 River Haven Drive, welcomed Hannah Parker as its new administrator. Parker is a licensed nursing home administrator and graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she earned a degree in health care management. The health care and rehabilitation center provides post-acute care and rehabilitation services to nursing center patients and residents. 205-987-0901, diversicareofriverchase.com
SCHOOLHOUSE
Hoover City Schools announces
By APRIL COFFEY
Hoover City Schools has announced a number of administrative changes for the 20262027 school year in addition to those featured in the cover story. They are as follows:
Aldric Bennett, South Shades Crest Elementary assistant principal: Bennett brings 15 years of experience in education, instruction, school leadership and student support to SSCES. He previously served as assistant principal at Simmons Middle, where he helped lead initiatives focused on academics, school safety and positive school culture.
Chris Blight, Hoover High School athletic director: Blight previously was Oak Mountain High School’s athletic director, director of football operations and varsity girls soccer coach. During his time as athletic director, Oak Mountain athletics produced more than 20 playoff appearances and five state championship appearances.
Alfreda Brown, Hoover High School assistant principal: Brown is transferring from an assistant principal job at Simmons Middle School. She brings more than 21 years of experience as a teacher, school counselor, lead counselor, adjunct instructor and administrator. She previously served as a counselor at Hoover High School and later became the district’s lead counselor and coordinator of services for students with physical and mental disabilities. She also worked as an English teacher, school counselor and lead counselor in Birmingham City Schools, and she was an adjunct English instructor at Brown Mackie College.
Mallory Creel, Greystone Elementary assistant principal: Creel brings 14 years of experience in education and previously served as a math teacher at Berry Middle. Before that, she taught fifth grade in Homewood City Schools. She is certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and has served on the Alabama State College and Career Ready Mathematics Implementation Team.
Mathew Epps, Riverchase Career Connection Center coordinator: Epps brings 20 years of educational experience. He previously served as principal of the Shelby County Career Technical Education Center, where he expanded innovative workforce development opportunities for students through dual enrollment, industry partnerships, workforce credentials, internships, job shadowing experiences and industry tours.
Emily Fogleman, Brock’s Gap Intermediate assistant principal: Fogleman brings 15 years of experience in education and previously served as BGIS enrichment specialist and lead enrichment specialist for Hoover City Schools. During her 11 years at BGIS, she supported student achievement through innovative learning experiences while serving in numerous leadership roles at the school and district levels.
Logan Greene, Simmons Middle assistant principal: With 19 years in education, Greene brings experience in instruction and student support. He joins Simmons from Berry Middle, where he served for the past five years teaching English language arts and social studies across all middle school grade levels. In addition to teaching, he participated in Hoover’s future administrator program and presented on best teaching practices at educational conferences and institutions across the country.
Trent Hosmer, Hoover High School assistant principal: Hosmer has served as a teacher, coach and leader in Hoover schools for over a decade. At Hoover High, he has taught all grade levels, with courses including world history, U.S. history and government. Additionally, he was the assistant basketball coach. As assistant principal, he will support the school’s overall operations, including student services, instruction, safety and staff collaboration. He will oversee student discipline, scheduling and school programs while supporting ongoing improvement efforts.
Tyler Looney-Wright, Simmons Middle assistant principal: Looney-Wright most recently was a counselor at Spain Park High School and has 15 years of educational experience. She also served as a counselor at McAdory Middle School, where she was recognized as the Jefferson County Counselor of the Year and served as the lead counselor for new school counselors, providing mentorship and support to colleagues entering the profession. Earlier in her career, she worked as a middle school social studies teacher and elementary school counselor in Sylacauga City Schools.
Scott Mitchell, chief administrative officer: With 27 years in Hoover City Schools, Mitchell brings deep experience and a strong understanding of the district. He has served as a teacher, assistant principal and principal, most recently at Brock’s Gap Intermediate, where he focused on school culture, supporting teachers and creating opportunities for student success.
Lindsay Morgan, Shades Mountain Elementary assistant principal: With 15 years in education, Morgan brings a strong passion for supporting students, teachers and families through collaborative leadership. She previously served as assistant principal at Trace Crossings Elementary. Morgan also has experience as an exceptional education teacher and instructional leader. She helped create a partnership with Samford University that provides future educators with classroom experience opportunities.
Alyson Patton, Trace Crossings Elementary assistant principal: Patton has 14 years in education and brings experience in exceptional education and instructional leadership. She served as an exceptional education teacher at Bluff Park Elementary and was recognized as UAB’s School of Education Outstanding Master’s Student.
Darrius Taylor , Berry Middle School assistant principal: With 18 years in education, Taylor returns to Hoover City Schools with a strong background in teaching, coaching and school leadership. He previously spent nine years at Spain Park High School as a social studies teacher and assistant football coach and most recently served as assistant principal at Leeds High School.
Aldric Bennett. Photos courtesy of Hoover City Schools.
Scott Mitchell.
Chris Blight. Photo by Michael Jackson.
Alyson Patton.
Lindsay Morgan.
SPORTS
UNDER THE LIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Bucs pushing for consistent excellence in new season
By KYLE PARMLEY
Hoover High School enters Chip English’s third season as head coach replacing a talented senior class with a group he said is stocked with players who simply haven’t had their turn yet.
“We’re going to have some talent, we’re going to have some guys that can play,” English said. “It’s just going to take a little bit of time to figure that out.”
English called last season a season of inconsistency, one where the Buccaneers played well one week and poorly the next before an early playoff exit. He said the coaching staff selfscouted extensively over the offseason to find ways to turn close losses into wins.
“Guys are tough, guys are gritty,” English said. “Somebody told me it looks like the old Hoover, and what they meant is these are guys that work really, really hard.”
English pointed to a stretch last season when Hoover started 1-3 before winning five straight games as a turning point for the program, along with a strong first half against Parker and a gutsy win over Thompson decided by a late field goal.
“Seeing that turnaround, seeing the confidence, seeing the playmaking progress was really exciting,” English said.
The staff added experience this offseason. A couple of new hires were made, and Williams Eads was elevated to offensive coordinator to give the Bucs a familiar face leading the offensive room.
Hoover’s region looks similar to a year ago, with Spain Park entering and HillcrestTuscaloosa exiting. English said the change in classification title from Class 7A to 6A doesn’t affect how difficult the region will be.
“It’s going to be a gauntlet again,” English said. “Week in and week out, we’re going to have to play our best.”
Hoover opens the season at home against Muscle Shoals on Aug. 21, then travels to Opelika the following week before region play begins Sept. 4 at Hewitt-Trussville. The Buccaneers host Prattville, Thompson and Spain Park and travel to Oak Mountain, Vestavia Hills and Tuscaloosa County within the region. Hoover also hosts Knoxville Catholic of Tennessee in a nonregion matchup Sept. 25 and has an open date Oct. 30.
OFFENSE
Senior Kaleb Freeman returns at quarterback
after a full season of starting experience and a recent commitment to Charleston Southern.
English said Freeman will need to take on a bigger role as a playmaker after receivers carried more of that load a year ago, including using his legs more in the run game.
“He’s going to have to take that on a little bit more this year, and we have no doubt that he can,” English said.
Junior Oliver Crowell, who spent time in Indiana before returning to Hoover, will back up Freeman.
At running back, junior Malik Boggan and junior Paxton Weatherly give Hoover two contrasting styles, one a speed threat and the other more of a shifty runner, and both are expected to split time carrying the pigskin.
Hoover’s receiving corps is almost entirely new to starting roles. Senior Anderson Clark returns at tight end after a strong offseason, while junior Jordon Ward, senior Ja’myreion Dickerson and senior Blake Clark are among the receivers expected to step into larger roles.
Up front, Hoover returns both starting tackles
in senior Rocco Rossi at right tackle and senior Zachari Moore at left tackle. Sophomore Braylen Cariveau is working back from a knee injury and gives the Bucs flexibility at guard or center.
“I feel like we probably have eight guys that can step out there on a Friday night and do some really good things,” English said of the offensive line.
DEFENSE
Hoover’s secondary returns significant experience, anchored by seniors D.J. Waluyn, Jordan Williams and Anquan Allen. Junior Aidan Callins adds depth to the group.
At linebacker, senior Nathan Johnson steps into a starting role for the first time despite his experience in the program, alongside junior Uriah Crawford and junior Khonor Latham.
Up front, senior Jovon Pulliam returns off an all-state season at defensive end and is expected to anchor the line. Senior Jordan Williams and sophomore Jaymon Knight, who played significant snaps as a freshman, add experience and
depth, while senior Christian Harris steps into a starting role for the first time as well.
“Jovon Pulliam was able to really change the game on what he was able to do,” English said. “When you have guys up front that can do that, it allows those secondary guys to play a little more risky.”
SPECIAL TEAMS
Senior Grant Morrison returns at punter after averaging close to 40 yards per kick a year ago, and senior Steele Witschy takes over placekicking duties. Hoover will also need to replace graduated long snapper Lincoln Anderson, who held the job for three seasons.
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Javon Pulliam (7). Photos by Barry Stephenson.
DJ Waluyn (1).
Kaleb Freeman (7).
UNDER THE LIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Jaguars lean on culture and new pieces as they jump back into a bigger classification
By KYLE PARMLEY
Spain Park High School enters 2026 with a small senior class, just 23 players, but what head coach Tim Vakakes describes as a program culture that’s been fully embraced by a group that has watched it be built by the classes before them.
“I think our kids understand our culture going into year five,” Vakakes said. “This group loves each other. It’s a close group.”
The Jaguars move back up into the state’s largest classification and region this fall, a jump Vakakes said his players are ready for given the atmosphere those bigger Friday nights bring.
Class 6A, Region 3 will have many familiar foes that will test the Jags on a weekly basis.
“I think that’s going to be the difference from last year to this year, just the atmospheres,” Vakakes said. “I think our coaches will have our kids prepared, and they’re excited about every Friday night.”
Vakakes called last season rewarding despite a disappointing finish, a 35-31 defeat at eventual state runner-up Saraland in the second round of the playoffs. He said that senior class set a standard he expects to carry into this season without the current team feeling like it has to live up to specific individual comparisons.
“Those kids have won 21 games the last two years,” Vakakes said. “I think that shows this group they can do it, too.”
Spain Park opens the season on the road against Sparkman on Aug. 21, then hosts Bessemer City the following week before region play begins Sept. 4 against Oak Mountain. The Jaguars host Thompson and Tuscaloosa County and travel to Vestavia Hills, Prattville, Hoover and Hewitt-Trussville within the region. Spain Park has an open date Sept. 25 and closes the regular season at home against James Clemens.
OFFENSE
Junior Nash Davis takes over at quarterback after serving as the backup a season ago. Vakakes said Davis has the talent to be a major college recruit but is coming off arm surgery and should be cleared to practice a few weeks before the season opens.
At running back, CJ Davis transfers in from Hewitt-Trussville, and senior Hudson Hibbard, last year’s backup quarterback, moves into the backfield as well.
The receiving corps is led by junior Barrett Price, who Vakakes said has already earned
multiple offers this offseason through his work ethic at camps. Senior tight ends Connor Greb and Landrick Hallman and junior Sawyer Scott give Spain Park size in an offense that uses multiple tight ends, while senior Brody Smith, the son of an assistant coach, is expected to step into a leadership role at receiver.
Up front, senior Sammy Camargo returns at center, and junior Sawyer Pearson, who arrived last year from Florida, has grown into a 285pound lineman. Junior Isaac Harris returns as a starter, and Eli Barry, a transfer from Helena, and Deonta Pickett, a transfer from Hewitt-Trussville, add depth to the group.
DEFENSE
Spain Park’s secondary returns significant experience in seniors Tristan Hill and Jaylen Mosley, with junior Dwight Beckford also back
after playing extensively as a sophomore. Sean Sigler, a transfer, adds size at cornerback.
At linebacker, Tyler Wilson and Jonathan Roberto anchor the group, with Roberto in his third season as a productive player at the position. Junior Israel Anders, junior Hudson Dees, senior Kam Lewis and Malachi Pitts round out the group.
Vakakes said the defensive line has a chance to be the team’s strength, led by MJ Evans, a heavily recruited lineman who recently committed to Auburn. Senior Jaylen Bates and his younger brother, sophomore Jacoby Bates, add size, and junior Wyatt Baty and junior James Jones round out the front. Senior Nic Hendrix moved over from the offensive line this spring to add strength inside.
“That D-line group has a chance to be a strength,” Vakakes said. “It’s got some speed,
it’s got some length, and they’re tough.”
SPECIAL TEAMS
Senior Garrett Hoffman and sophomore Aiden Holloman will compete at kicker, while Zach Jones-Van Pelt returns as punter. Junior Elijah Blair and junior Asher McBride are among the candidates competing for the long snapper job.
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Barrett Price (7). Photo by Todd Lester.
Tristan Hill (12). Photo by Todd Lester.
Nash Davis (13). Photo by Richard Force.
Jaylen Mosley (1). Photo by Richard Force.
Save the Date
EXPLORE PLAYGROUND & SPLASH PAD
► Where: Hoover Met Complex, 5508 Stadium Trace Parkway
► When: Open daily during Aug.; Splash Pad is closed for maintenance on Mondays.
► Cost: Free
► Details: Cool off before school starts at Hoover’s Explore Playground & Splash Pad. Children can enjoy interactive splash features, imaginative playground equipment, and plenty of room to climb, explore and play. It’s a popular destination for families looking to beat the summer heat while enjoying one of Hoover’s premier outdoor recreation spaces.
► More Info: hoovermetcomplex.com
VINTAGE VIDEOS: ‘MY MAN GODFREY’
► Where: The Library Theatre, 200 Municipal Drive
► When: Aug. 21, 2-4 p.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: Enjoy a classic afternoon at the movies as Hoover Public Library’s Vintage Videos series presents “My Man Godfrey” (1957, NR). Relax in the Library Theatre and experience this beloved comedy on the big screen while celebrating one of Hollywood’s timeless classics. Whether you’re revisiting a favorite film or discovering it for the first time, this free screening offers a fun outing for movie lovers of all ages.
► More Info: hooverlibrary.org
ROSS BRIDGE FARMERS MARKET
► Where: 2101 Grand Ave.
► When: Every Friday, 4-8 p.m.
► Cost: Free to enter; each vendor prices accordingly
► Details: Spend Friday evenings shopping fresh and local at the Ross Bridge Farmers Market. Browse seasonal produce, baked goods, handcrafted items and specialty foods while enjoying live music, food trucks and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for the weekend or simply looking for a fun outing with family and friends, the market offers something for everyone. It’s a great way to support local farmers, artisans and small businesses while soaking up one of Hoover’s favorite summer traditions.
► More Info: rossbridgefarmersmarket.com
TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB
► Where: Friends Meeting Room, Hoover Public Library, 200 Municipal Drive
► When: Aug. 25, 6:30-8 p.m.
► Cost: Free
► Details: If you’re fascinated by true crime, join fellow readers for Hoover Public Library’s monthly True Crime Book Club. August’s discussion features “Empire of Pain” by Patrick Radden Keefe, an award-winning nonfiction account of the Sackler family and the opioid crisis. New members and visitors are welcome to take part in an evening of thoughtful discussion and engaging conversation.
► More Info: hooverlibrary.org
HOOVER LIBRARY EVENTS
Aug. 1: Calligraphy Class – Online Calligraphy Resources 101, noon.
Aug. 4: Family Movie: Scoob!, 10 a.m.
Aug. 8: Friends of the Library Book Sale, 10 a.m.
Aug. 10: Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, 2 p.m.
Aug. 13: Medicare 101, 1 p.m.
► For more events news, connect with the Hoover Sun online by scanning the QR code.
► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Kyle Parmley at kparmley@starnesmedia.com.
BACK TO SCHOOL CRAFT & VENDOR MARKET
► Where: Riverchase Galleria, 2000 Galleria Circle
► When: Aug. 1, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Aug. 2, noon to 6 p.m.
► Cost: Free admission
► Details: Kick off the new school year while shopping local at the Birmingham Back to School Craft & Vendor Market. The two-day event features a variety of local makers, crafters, boutiques, specialty vendors and small businesses offering unique products for the whole family. Guests can browse back-toschool items, gifts, home décor and handmade goods while supporting local entrepreneurs in a fun, familyfriendly atmosphere.
► More Info: eventbrite.com
HYDRANGEA SOCIETY MEETING
► Where: Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Road
► When: Aug. 26
► Cost: Free
► Details: Garden enthusiasts are invited to learn more about one of Alabama’s signature flowering plants during the Alabama Hydrangea Society’s monthly meeting at Aldridge Gardens. Guests are welcome to attend and hear from experienced gardeners while exploring the beautiful grounds of one of Hoover’s most beloved public gardens. Whether you’re a longtime gardener or just beginning to discover hydrangeas, the meeting offers an opportunity to learn, connect with fellow plant lovers and enjoy the natural beauty of the gardens.
► More Info: aldridgegardens.com
Aug. 17: Career Kickstart – Ace Your Job Interview, 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 18: Live on the Plaza featuring Will Stewart, 7 p.m.
Aug. 31: Friends of the Hoover Public Library Board Meeting, 10:30 a.m. For a complete list of August events, visit hooverlibrary.org.
BIRDING BASICS
► Where: Cahaba Riverchase Greenway Trailhead, 1930 Old Montgomery Highway
► When: Aug. 15, 9-11 a.m.
► Cost: Free; registration required
► Details: Discover the birds that call Hoover home during this guided walk through the scenic Cahaba Riverchase Greenway. Led by local birding expert Greg Harber, participants will learn how to identify common species by sight and sound while exploring one of the area’s most beautiful natural spaces. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, this beginner-friendly program offers a fun opportunity to connect with nature, sharpen your observation skills and gain a greater appreciation for Alabama’s diverse wildlife.
► More Info: hooverlibrary.org
GEORGE LOPEZ
► Where: Stardome Comedy Club, 1818 Data Drive
► When: Aug. 28–30 (multiple showtimes)
► Cost: Ticket prices vary.
► Details: Comedy legend George Lopez brings his nationally acclaimed stand-up tour to the Stardome Comedy Club for a special three-night engagement. With a career spanning television, film and stand-up comedy, Lopez is known for his sharp observations, relatable storytelling and signature humor that has entertained audiences for decades. Fans can expect an evening of big laughs from one of comedy’s most recognizable voices during this highly anticipated stop in Hoover.
► More Info: stardome.com
Riverchase UMC to host women’s Salt and Light event
By EMILY REED
Hoover resident Aimee George plans to draw on her experience of relying on her faith through difficult times as she prepares to speak at Riverchase United Methodist Church on Aug. 30.
The event, “Planting Peace, Not Fear,” will highlight how George, a Birmingham Realtor, has relied on her faith to help her through challenging times.
“I have found that with my work as a Realtor that my purpose is to help other people with life in general to realize that they don’t have to live life with fear, worry or anxiety,” George said. “You don’t have to fear what you are faced with, because God will help you through all of it.”
George will speak at the church event, geared for women of all ages, beginning at 5 p.m.
One of the event organizers, Brandi Guthrie, said the event is to provide women an evening of fellowship, encouragement and inspiration and a “delicious” dinner.
“We had all prayed for God to lead us to a speaker,” Guthrie said. “Our desire was to have a woman speaker whose struggle and strong faith could show us that God can and does do mighty things with us. Aimee posted on Facebook about Rest in Peace versus RIP. She wrote she was grateful for how the Lord is unfolding her story and how He has used her sins and shortcomings to deepen her relationship with Him. She said it has brought her to this place that is pressing her on each side with treatments, surgeries and cancer. Yet, a place where she rests in peace. Once I read her post,
we knew we had a speaker that would inspire us and leave us with a knowledge of God’s love and goodness.”
Guthrie said the church event, called “Salt and Light,” initially started in 2022 as a lunch event at the church. In 2024, it transitioned to a dinner event, and in 2025, 108 women attended.
George said she is looking forward to meeting the women who will attend.
“I hope those that come will find encouragement, and I look forward to having the opportunity to speak,” George said. “I feel like the Lord has put this together, and He has given me a reason to speak so I am following His guidance.”
The event is open to women of all ages. The
cost to attend is $25 per person.
For more information or to register, visit riverchaseumc.org or call 205-987-4030.
The church is at 1953 Old Montgomery Highway.
Salt and Light
► Where: Riverchase Room, Riverchase United Methodist Church
► Hours: 5-7 p.m.
► Details: Open to women of all ages; $25 per person.
► Call: 205-987-4030
► Web: riverchaseumc.org/event/salt-light-2026/
Featured speaker Aimee George. Photo courtesy of Aimee George.
“So, what makes our appointments a bit unique is we all served as assistant principals together,” Williams said. “We have been friends for a long time and have really relied on one another during our time as assistant principals. We have worked well together, and now we all have roles of principal, so it will be a lot of fun having one another as great resources.”
All three of the women officially began their roles on July 1 to prepare for the upcoming school year.
Williams most recently worked at Greystone Elementary School as assistant principal for the last 10 years. She was also assistant principal for South Shades Crest Elementary. She began her career in education more than 30 years ago, when she taught first graders in Perry County.
After two years, Williams went on to teach in her hometown of Demopolis, where she taught fourth and fifth grades for 11 years. She then served as a K-eighth grade school administrator in the Sumter County School District.
It was a family move that eventually brought her and her family to the Hoover community, where she has worked as a math tutor, a reading and math intervention teacher, and eventually assistant principal.
Williams was also recognized in 2025 as the Alabama NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal District IV Nominee.
“I think with my new role of principal, I am really eager to get to know the Riverchase community,” Williams said. “Hoover has so much diversity in our community, and I absolutely love that. I am really excited for the opportunity to get to know another part of the Hoover community.”
Williams said she likes the principal role because it allows her the opportunity to know the entire school on a personal level.
“You have so much influence on the students,” Williams said. “I love interacting with each and every student and being able to let them know that I am here and advocating for them.”
Williams said when she started her teaching journey in 1994, she formed connections that she still holds today.
“I believe that you get back what you give,” Williams said. “I try really hard to be positive and find the silver lining in something. I believe that if you invest in people and have good relationships with them, you can have them for years and years. There are people I taught with in my first years of education that I can still call up today, and the same is true for them.”
Williams said educators often spend the majority of their time pouring into the lives of children under their care.
“Teachers give and give and give,” Williams said. “Sometimes, it may be years later when you see the difference you may have made in a child’s life, but it is so wonderful to see those students years later. I recently saw a former student of mine who had grown into this tall boy running in my direction, and it was just so rewarding for me to see him from when I had known him as a little person to now being all grown up.”
Williams said she was thankful to be the
recipient of the new role and looks forward to learning and growing more at Riverchase Elementary.
“I am sure there will be a lot of things that are overwhelming in the beginning, but I am really looking forward to it and so thankful that I was the person chosen for this role,” Williams said.
BROCK’S GAP INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
Emily Dunleavy hopes she will help every student at Brock’s Gap Intermediate School find their success.
“A principal is someone who helps set the tone for each and every day,” Dunleavy said. “I lead with a servant heart, and I know that every interaction I have with every person can make or break their day. That is something I don’t take lightly. I want to create conditions where all kids can reach their full potential, and that looks different for every kid.”
With 15 years of experience in education, Dunleavy most recently served for three years as assistant principal at Brock’s Gap Intermediate School.
Dunleavy was instrumental in helping grow a collaborative school environment for students, staff and families. During her time at BGIS, the school was recognized as a National School of Character and earned Top 25 recognition through Alabama’s Legislative School Performance Recognition Program, being honored as one of the top-performing schools in the state for academic achievement and growth.
She is also a graduate of the Shelby County Assistant Principal Leadership Academy and was recognized as the AAESA Alabama Assistant Principal of the Year Nominee for District IV in 2025.
Dunleavy is also an Alabama Technology Integration Coach and a Certified Google Trainer.
Prior to joining Hoover City Schools, she served as assistant principal at Inverness Elementary School and previously worked as a classroom teacher, instructional technology specialist and instructional coach and mentor to new teachers.
Dunleavy worked at Homewood City Schools and was also named Shades Cahaba Teacher of the Year.
“I have loved being the assistant principal for the last three years,” Dunleavy said. “The dedication of our school board and our district leaders always putting our students first — it makes the role of administrator make all of the difference. I have strong relationships with everyone and will now be leading them in a different capacity, and that is something I am so excited about. This school is definitely a family. We want the students to know that everyone is welcome, the parents are welcome, and it is such a great partnership between our families and the school.”
Dunleavy said she firmly believes that words matter and that a positive impact on a student can make all the difference.
“As an educator or an assistant principal or even principal, your words matter, and it is amazing to think how something you may say to someone can really affect them the rest of their lives,” Dunleavy said.
Dunleavy said she hopes to remind herself in the hard moments of the job that the parents are sending their very best to the school.
“When I keep that mind frame, it helps me
NOTICE
According to the Alabama Administrative Code r.290-080-090-10(2)(g), an education agency must retain a copy of education records for five (5) years after a student with disabilities graduates with a diploma, reaches age 21, or exits high school. At the end on the five (5) year retention period, the education agency shall provide written notice to parents to inform them that the special education records are no longer needed and will be destroyed. This serves as notice that special education records for students who graduated with a diploma, reached age 21, or exited high school on or before May 2021, will be destroyed after October 2, 2026, unless the parents pick up the records or notify the Director of Instructional Support Services at the following address prior to that date to arrange a time to receive the records: Claire Jones-Moore - Executive Director of Exceptional Education Hoover City Schools 2810 Metropolitan Way Hoover, Alabama 35243 205-439-1050
to think about how best we can partner with each family,” Dunleavy said. “I have found if there is a harder conversation that needs to happen, I can keep my mind focused on the goal of the child and what is best for that student, and it helps so much.”
DEER VALLEY ELEMENTARY
Leah Colley will begin the new school year as principal of Deer Valley Elementary School, something she is very excited about.
“I have lived in Hoover for 17 years and love the community,” Colley said. “Deer Valley already has such a great reputation for all of the wonderful things that happen here, so I am hoping to just keep that momentum going.”
Colley has 21 years of experience in education, and she started her career as a first grade teacher.
She went on to teach second grade, served as an instructional coach and reading specialist, served as an assistant principal in Tuscaloosa County and served as assistant principal at Shades Mountain Elementary School, where she has been for the last three years.
During her time at Shades Mountain Elementary, she has been part of the leadership team that helped the school earn National Blue Ribbon recognition and i-Ready Super Stretch School honors for two consecutive years.
“I love helping students with the tools they need to learn to read,” Colley said. “It is hard
work, but I hear from students who will say that Mrs. Colley helped them learn to read, and that feeling is just indescribable.”
Colley said when she first learned of her new role at Deer Valley, she told the staff of her new school that relationships will be the foundation of everything they do.
“I think stepping into this new role, building relationships is something I am going to look forward to,” Colley said. “I am a firm believer that relationships matter most. When the student has a great student-teacher relationship, it makes all of the difference.”
Colley said each student grows and develops at different times, and sometimes the best gift to give a student is the gift of time.
“That is one of the things that I love the most about the elementary grades because you are able to see that growth happen over time,” Colley said.
When Colley was a student, it was her kindergarten teacher who was an inspiring presence in her life.
“She was somebody that was so intentional about relationships,” Colley said. “I had a summer birthday and she came and picked me up when I was a kid so that I could be celebrated too. When I was in college at Alabama, she was one of my professors there, so it was this full-circle moment, but she impacted me early on and then impacted me in college and was very instrumental for me deciding to go into education myself.”
New principals in Hoover City Schools include, from left, Riverchase Elementary Principal Sherita Williams, Brock’s Gap Intermediate Principal Emily Dunleavy and Deer Valley Elementary Principal Leah Colley.
CONTINUED from page 1
That’s a combined investment of $350 million and should eventually generate a combined $123 million in annual sales activity and $2 million a year in property taxes for Hoover schools, Masingill said. It also will have created an estimated 750 permanent jobs, and phase two is expected to create 300 or more temporary construction jobs, he said.
But Broad Metro wanted the city’s help to recover some of its development costs. The 147 acres yet to be developed formerly were a coal mine site and likely will take $42 million worth of work to be buildable, City Manager Brian Muenger said.
The City Council agreed to give Broad Metro a $4 million upfront payment to help Kadish pay for stormwater improvements that will help solve a problem of sediment erosion into nearby Scout Lake, plus up to $19 million in breaks related to sales and lodging taxes and construction permit fees.
Broad Metro also was seeking to expand the amount of tax rebates the company received for phase one of Stadium Trace Village from $20 million to $25 million and to get an extra four years to capture that extra $5 million in rebates. That’s the issue that was slated for a vote on July 27.
TAX BREAK DETAILS
The tax breaks approved July 13 included a rebate of 60% of sales taxes received from new development in phases two and three, 75% of lodging taxes from phases two and three, and 75% of construction-related sales taxes and construction permit fees, Muenger said.
The city should be able to recapture the $4 million upfront cash outlay by the fifth year, and the total amount of revenue the city should receive from the development over 20 years is $27.1 million, Muenger said. After 13 years, the city should expect to get 100% of sales and lodging tax revenues, which should amount to about $1.9 million a year, Muenger said.
Additionally, Hoover City Schools should get $24.6 million in new property taxes over 20 years because the value of the land will increase dramatically with all the site improvements and development, Muenger said. And the combined amount of revenue going to all governments (the city, Jefferson County, state and Hoover schools) is projected to be $63.8 million over 20 years.
COUNCIL REASONING
Councilman Steve McClinton, who made the motion to approve the incentive package, said Kadish has proven himself with phase one of Stadium Trace Village and he believes Kadish will do the same good job with phases two and three. The deal is not all about the tax dollars; it’s about the quality of life for Hoover residents, McClinton said.
He was in favor of a tax break package that came to the council two to three years ago that was $54 million but ended up going away because of opposition, and Monday night the deal was down to $23 million, he said.
“The schools will benefit. The residents will benefit. Right now, we’re making like $41,000 a year in taxes off that property, and now it’s going to be completely different,” McClinton said. “It’ll be close to like $24 million after 20 years for the schools. Hoover only has so many places of land that’s available, and that’s one of the few of them right there, and the topography is bad.”
For people who say the city should be more focused on properties like the Riverchase Galleria and Patton Creek, progress is happening on those fronts behind the scenes, McClinton said. Mayor Nick Derzis likely will have something to announce for the Galleria and Patton Creek by the third quarter or early fourth quarter of this year, he said.
“Now you have a council and a mayor who are working together very well and who are very transparent,” McClinton said.
Councilman Gene Smith noted the developer incentives are tied to the development becoming successful over time. Other than the upfront $4 million payment, it has to be successful for the developer to get his money back, and his benefit is capped at a certain level, Smith said. Once he reaches that cap, the city begins to reap the full benefit of those increased tax dollars, he said.
“I think it’s good for everybody, and it’s exceptionally good for the schools,” Smith said. “Once they build on it, the property is
going to become even more valuable.”
PUBLIC FEEDBACK
At the July 13 public hearing, some residents praised the developer for the work he did on phase one of Stadium Trace Village and his commitment to clean up stormwater problems that he didn’t create, but others objected to the tax breaks and a proposed road connection to Brock’s Gap Parkway.
Steve Lawrence, treasurer of the Trace Crossings Residential Association, said the association’s board voted to support Broad Metro’s incentive request because they think the development overall will be good for the community.
Stormwater runoff has put 14,000 cubic yards of sediment in Scout Lake, and Broad Metro has committed to fix the erosion problem by building a series of ponds and committed money to dredge Scout Lake, Lawrence said.
Jordan Hosey, another resident and real estate agent, said she doesn’t know of anyone else standing in line to develop old mine land like this and said developments like Stadium Trace Village add value to the community and help increase property values.
The plan for phase two includes a Chasing Aces golf and entertainment center with golfing bays for practice and games, par 3 golf holes, a putting green and baseball batting cages, Masingill said.
There also are plans for an 80,000-squarefoot, four-story medical office building to be called South Haven Surgical Plaza and to include a 25-bed outpatient surgery center.
Phase two also is proposed to have an independent living, assisted living and memory care facility for people ages 55 and older, a 200-room hotel and other restaurant and retail sites, Masingill said.
Plans for phase three of Stadium Trace Village include 27 acres of “high-end residential” or additional housing for people ages 55 and older, 10 acres of mixed-use space that could include some retail, and other land that could be used for another hotel or other commercial space, Masingill said.
Bill McCanna, a resident of the Chestnut Ridge subdivision in the Trace Crossings community, said he objects to the tax breaks. The council is just giving away tax money it would receive whether this development comes to fruition or not, McCanna said. If the second and third phases of Stadium Trace Village didn’t happen, people would just spend their money elsewhere in Hoover, he said.
Mike Perry, another resident, said it’s easy for the council to give taxpayers’ money away to developers, but he hasn’t seen his taxes go down. “I don’t get any incentive,” he said.
He also noted there are existing commercial centers in Hoover that deserve the city’s attention, such as the Riverchase Galleria, Patton Creek and The Grove shopping centers.
Hoover Council President Casey Middlebrooks said this incentive agreement won’t affect any potential redevelopment deals with Patton Creek or the Galleria. Retail is still strong in Hoover and will continue to be strong, Middlebrooks said. The second and third phases of Stadium Trace Village will have less retail than the first phase and bring
This map shows proposed phases two and three
Map and images courtesy of city of Hoover.
amenities like entertainment options and health care services, he said.
ROAD CONCERNS
Numerous residents expressed concerns about Broad Metro’s plan to extend Peridot Place, a main thoroughfare in the first phase of Stadium Trace Village, all the way to Brock’s Gap Parkway. That’s just going to create another cut-through to John Hawkins Parkway and drive additional traffic to Brock’s Gap Parkway, they argued.
Plus, the proposed connection point is at a bad location because it sits on a blind curve with a significant hill, some residents said. There already are accidents there, and this will exacerbate the problem, especially with lots of young drivers headed to and from the nearby Hoover High School, residents said.
Darrell Skipper, a traffic consultant hired by the developer, said a traffic light and turn lanes are proposed to be added on Brock’s Gap Parkway, and the developer plans to clear some trees along Brock’s Gap Parkway to help with sight distances.
Muenger said specific development plans and the design and approval of any road connection would have to be fleshed out in future zoning applications.
The developer, Broad Metro, already was given up to $20 million in sales tax rebates for phase one.
NEW INCENTIVE PACKAGE
The Hoover City Council approved up to $23 million in new incentives for Stadium Trace Village on July 13 and was slated to consider adding $5 million more in incentives for phase one on July 27.
$4 million cash to help with stormwater erosion repairs
Rebate of 60% sales tax revenues from phases 2 & 3
Rebate of 75% of lodging tax revenues
Rebate of 100% of $2 nightly room fee
Rebate of 75% of construction-related sales taxes & building permit fees
Cap of $23 million for all incentives for phases 2 & 3
RETURN ON INVESTMENT
City should recoup $4 million investment by Year 5
City should gain $27.1 million over 20 years
Hoover City Schools gains $24.6 million over 20 years
Total tax dollars (including county and state revenue) of $63.8 million over 20 years
Developer is spending $200 million more
Development to create 750 permanent jobs and 300 temporary construction jobs
Community gains new entertainment, health care, hotel, retail amenities
Stormwater erosion problem addressed
Dilution of traffic on Stadium Trace Parkway
Source: City of Hoover
The Stadium Trace Village development is proposed to have a Chasing Aces golf and entertainment center that includes golfing bays for practice and games, par 3 golf holes, a putting green and baseball batting cages.
The South Haven Surgical Plaza is a planned 80,000-square-foot, four-story medical office building slated to include a 25-bed outpatient surgery center It is slated to be in the second phase of Stadium Trace Village.
of the Stadium Trace Village development along Interstate 459.
