Hoover Sun February 2015

Sun Neighborly news & entertainment for Hoover

Get ready to shop

Volume 3 | Issue 5 | February 2015

NOTHING SAYS LOVE LIKE A CLEAN HOME. Everyone can appreciate a thorough clean from The Maids.

Making homes cleaner and healthier since 1987.

871-9338 www.MAIDS.com

Referred for a reason.

Wrestling with fate

Read our guide for the major children’s consignment sales happening in Hoover this month.

See page A18

Hearts of service

The Hoover Service Club will host the third annual Hearts and Harmony Gala on Feb. 13 at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel. Details inside this issue.

See page B4

INSIDE City ......................A6 Food .....................A14 Gift Guide.............A16 Business ..........A20

By DAVID KNOX Steve Gaydosh is the winningest high school wrestling coach in Alabama. In his 33 years as Vestavia Hills coach, he’s won 12 state championships and coached runner-up teams eight times.

Hoover High School wrestling coach Jacob Gaydosh (bottom) is the son of Hall of Fame wrestling coach Steve Gaydosh (top). Before wrestling, Jacob originally aspired to be an ESPN broadcaster. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.

He has mentored 84 individual champions, including son Jonathan Gaydosh and son Jacob Gaydosh — who now coaches rival Hoover High.

Yes, it’s a family thing for the Gaydoshes.

Truth be told, the area wrestling community is sort of like family.

“In wrestling, since we compete at tournaments where we’re all in the gym all weekend together all year long, it’s almost like I feel I’ve coached all these guys, since I’ve coached against them since they were kids,”

See COACHES | page A23

Community .........B3 School House .......B8 Sports ...................B11 Calendar ...............B17

facebook.com/thehooversun

Pre-Sort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Memphis, TN Permit #830

Wrestling has lifetime hold on father and son coaches at Hoover and Vestavia Hills

Southern Voices returns to Hoover Public Library

By KATIE TURPEN This year, Hoover Public Library’s literary festival returns with an exciting lineup of authors, musicians, and an artist. Wally

Lamb is the featured author.

“Wally Lamb is a one-of-a-kind writer,” said Assistant Library Director Amanda Borden. “His

See LITERATURE | page A22

Assistant Library Director Amanda Borden and Library Director Linda Andrews hold books written by two of the featured authors at this month’s Southern Voices festival. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Simple Promise Simple 90-Day Comfort PROMISE* Pick any bed from our huge selection of the World’s Best Beds & Sleep Soundly for 90 Days Or Simply Return it For a Full Credit.

Hoover • 979-7274

Hwy. 31 across from Crest Cadillac www.bedzzzexpress.com

90-Day LOWEST PRICE PROMISE* Find it cheaper and we will Refund 115% of the Difference. *See store for details

A2 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A3

A4 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

About Us Photo of the Month

Please Support our Community Partners

Former Auburn linebacker Mayo Sowell recently visited students at Simmons Middle School. Photo courtesy of Rebecca B. Bueche.

Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden Love it or loathe it, Valon something practical and entine’s Day season is once lasting. My husband’s been again staring us in the face slow to embrace this prag(in case you hadn’t noticed matic view, though he’s the explosion of pink and red beginning to come around.

He found it only slightly and all things chocolate-y at a grocer near you). less baffling when I asked I’m a girly girl, and have him to skip the box of Rusalways felt the thrill of being sell Stovers (not the heart a certain someone’s sweetshaped one, mind you, but heart when a spray of expertly the rectangle one filled with arranged red roses arrived to nut and chewy varieties).

Walden I’ve made a pact with a my workplace or appeared with a flourish on the dining room table. fellow Vestavia mom to be bikini beach Not to take anything away from those who body ready by June, and as anyone who’s deign to acknowledge the day, dismissing seen me hoofing it out on the elliptical it as nothing more than a Hallmark holi- at Lifetime Fitness can attest, I intend day. To each their own. But for me, it’s all to follow through – curses on those in the gesture – there’s something special obscenely delicious chocolate caramels! about being made to feel special in the Indeed the day has become more about eyes of another. spending time with the kids, making As we’ve welcomed children – and the crafty Valentine’s for them to share with expenses that come with raising them the their little friends – crafts that are clever way we intend to – Valentine’s Day flow- enough yet not too hard for little hands ers have become an unnecessary luxury, to create. Our personal favorites right a representation of money better spent now are flowers that hold Dum-Dum

Sun Publisher : Creative Director : Graphic Designer: Editor: Managing Editor: Sports Editor: Staff Writers:

Editorial Assistant: Advertising Manager : Sales and Distribution :

Copy Editor: Contributing Photographer: Published by :

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Emily VanderMey Rebecca Walden Madoline Markham David Knox Katie Turpen Jessa Pease Sydney Cromwell Madison Miller Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Nathan Pearman Louisa Jeffries Karim Shamsi-Basha Hoover Sun LLC

lollipops and Tootsie Roll Rockets. When that becomes old hat, we’ll switch to our old stand-by – heart-shaped fish – three hearts artfully arranged equal one lusciously-lipped aquatic vertebrate.

At ages 5 and 4, the kids still get a kick out of adorning the kitchen windows with hearts of every shape, size and color and stringing streamers through every doorway. And as long as it keeps bringing joy to their faces, we’ll do it – no matter how old they are.

In lieu of flowers, an early bedtime for the little ones, a nice dinner in and a new release rental on Netflix are about all it will take to make this girl’s 2015 Valentine’s Day one for the books.

Wishing you a V-Day filled with just enough sweetness to your liking,

Contact Information: Hoover Sun #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@hooversun.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: rebecca@hooversun.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253

For advertising contact: dan@hooversun.com Legals: The Hoover Sun is published monthly.

Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Hoover Sun is designed to inform the Hoover community of area school, family and community events. Information in the Hoover Sun is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of the Hoover Sun. We reserve the right to edit articles/ photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

Please recycle this paper

Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (B4) Alabama Outdoors (A18) Alabama Power (B17) ARC Realty (A16) Aspire Physical Recovery Center (B18) At Home Furnishings (A15) Avenir Realty-Amanda Hardin (B14) Baptist Health Center Hoover (A14, B1) Bargains on the Bluff (A11) Bedzzz Express (B2) Birmingham Museum of Art (B20) Bluff Park Window Works (A9) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (A17) Cajun Cleaver (B6) Danberry at Inverness (A13) Decorating Dens Interiors (A8) Encore Rehabilitation (A5) ENT for Kids Alabama (A18) Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles (B18) Fi-Plan Partners (A15) Geico Insurance (A7) Granite Transformations (B1) Healthy Smiles of Birmingham (A12) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (B3, (A12) Hoover Florist (A10) Hoover Public Library (B16) Hoover Softball Association (A19) Hoover Title Mart (A10) Iron City Realty (B3) Issis & Sons / O Advertising (B9) Jesse’s Steak and Seafood (B12) Kasey Davis Dentistry (B15) Kelli Gunnells Realtor (B10) Kidz Closet Consignment (B9) LAH Real Estate - Hoover Office (B16) Lorna Road Chiropractic Wellness Center (A22) MedCenter Hoover (B13) Morningside at Riverchase (A19) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (A9) Planet Fitness (A5) Preston L. Reynolds DMD (B12) Project Share (A20) Raymond James (B5) RealtySouth - James Harwell (B6) RealtySouth Marketing (A23) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (B13) Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace (A3) Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen (B11) St. Vincent’s Health Systemsm (B19) Susette Clark-Walker / RealtySouth (B5) The clothes tree (B14) The Lice Place (A20) The Maids (B10) The Retirement Center (A11) The Wright Center, Samford University (B4) Therapy South Riverchase (A21) Urban Home Market (A2) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A17, B15) Vulcan Termite & Pest Control (A6) Walmart Neighborhood Market (A24) Water Drainage Solutions (A9) Weigh To Wellness (B8) Winonah International School of Cosmetology (B7) Wrapsody (A6)

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A5

HOOVER

l Physical Therapy lY Youth & Adult Sports Injuries Injurie l Arthritis Pain Management

2801 John Hawkins Parkway 205-682-7650 Open Monday - Saturday

l Orthopedic Rehab l Workers’ Comp l Back & Neck Pain l Convenient Hours l Most Insurances Accepted, including BCBS, Medicare, and Tricare

A6 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

City Mayor’s Minute

By Gary Ivey

2015 has been a very cold 7. This is always an year so far! Our staff has been extra special event for us, busy planning many educaespecially since Hoover tional, fun and family friendly has been recognized year events that are sure to warm you after year as a “Tree City USA” recipient. up and get you involved in our community. Whether you are a We are all very lucky sports enthusiast, educator, artist to live in Hoover where or one of our retired citizens, we we work hard to prohave something for you! vide you with the best We are very excited about amenities, programs and the upcoming annual Southservices possible. Please ern Voices Festival held at the call our office if you have Gary Ivey Hoover Public Library. Festivany suggestions or ideas ities kick- off on Tuesday, Feb. for something you would 24 and conclude on Saturday, Feb. 28. We like us to offer. We are always working hard have an action packed line up and you don’t to exceed your expectations. want to miss it. For ticket information or just to read more about all of the authors and Sincerely, entertainers, please visit the library website at hooverlibrary.org/sv or call the Library Theatre Box office at 444-7888.

As winter thaws and we look ahead to March, be sure to save the date for our annual Gary Ivey Arbor Day Celebration at Aldridge Gardens.

Mayor This event will be held on Saturday, March

Lott resigns from council seat Mayor Gary Ivey announced that council member Trey Lott will vacate his seat on the council at its meeting on Jan. 20. Lott resigned from his position after a recent move from Greystone to Alabaster.

Lott has served on the council since 2004.

Ivey said that his position is now open and that a replacement will be chosen by the council.

For more information, visit hooveral.org.

Heroin death rates rise in 2014

By SYDNEY CROMWELL The heroin-related death rate for Jefferson County more than doubled in 2014. According Deputy Coroner Bill Yates of the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, there were 129 confirmed heroin deaths last year, compared to 58 in 2013.

Across the county, the number of deaths from heroin overdose has been rising each year since 2010, when there were 12 deaths.

The growth between 2013 and 2014 was the largest single increase since that time.

Yates had records of six heroin deaths in Hoover this year, though Captain Gregg Rector of the Hoover Police Department said the police estimate stands at 10 fatalities. Rector said the disparity comes from cases where heroin paraphernalia is found at the scene of the death, but toxicology reports are inconclusive.

Around Hoover, other cities experienced even higher numbers of fatalities. Within the city limits of Birmingham, 55 heroin-related

deaths occurred in 2014, and Homewood and Vestavia Hills each had seven confirmed deaths.

Rector said 2014’s totals are “the most deaths we’ve ever had documented” since the police began keeping records of heroin overdoses in 2011, and numbers have been steadily increasing. He said many people with addictions to prescription medications turn to heroin as an alternative because it is much cheaper and easier to find.

“That [prescription medication] becomes a very expensive habit,” Rector said. “Heroin was providing the drug addicts with the same high that the prescription drugs were providing.”

The Hoover police have begun training patrol officers to recognize heroin paraphernalia and the signs of use. Detectives are also doing more thorough interviews with people arrested for possession of heroin, and Rector said the police hope to trace some of Hoover’s heroin back to its source.

Hoover Public Safety Center undergoing renovations

By KATIE TURPEN During a January meeting, the Hoover City Council approved extra funds to be spent on Hoover Public Safety Center renovations. The project consists of building out offices and storage rooms, and converting an old storage room to a training room.

The Hoover Public Safety Center is located at 2020 Valleydale Road. The facility houses the Hoover City Jail, police records, police communications and the Hoover Municipal Court. In 2006, the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences opened a new facility to replace the department’s offices that were previously located on the campus of UAB.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A7

Council shuts down 119 gas station request

Don Erwin with Barber Companies speaks out against Covenant Bank’s request to build a gas station on Highway 119. Photo by Madison Miller.

By MADISON MILLER The Hoover City Council shot down a request for the building of a gas station at the corner of Highway 119 and Doug Baker Boulevard at its meeting on Jan. 20.

The request was submitted by Covenant Bank to rezone the property to allow for the station to be constructed. Its previous zoning did not allow for gas pumps to be located on the site. Jesse Evans spoke on behalf of Covenant Bank and gave a presentation outlining each requirement for the project and stated that it had been through the city’s planning and zoning commission.

During public comments, several residents spoke out against the project including

Don Erwin from Barber Companies and Dr. Randy Haddock, biologist with the Cahaba River Society.

Erwin cited the possibility of other uses for the property such as commercial real estate and said that the majority of residents did not approve of a gas station in close proximity to residential property.

Haddock spoke on the damage that the construction of the station could cause to the Cahaba River, which would cause flooding and property damage to homes and other businesses in the area.

The council voted 4-0 against the Covenant’s request. For more information, visit hooveral.org.

New homes to be built on Kirkman Drive

New homes will be built on Kirkman Drive following the Hoover City Council’s approval of rezoning 17 acres of land adjacent to Kirkman Preserve, which will allow for construction of the properties. Photo by Madison Miller.

By MADISON MILLER New homes will be built on Kirkman Drive following the Hoover City Council’s approval of rezoning 17 acres of land adjacent to Kirkman Preserve, which will allow for construction of the properties. Thirty-five medium density homes are currently planned for the site.

The council approved the rezoning at the request of Jonathan Belcher of NSH Corporation.

Other City Council business in December and January included: }} Authorizing the acceptance of public improvements within the road right of way to Northampton Phase 1 Subdivision and Northampton Phase 2 Subdivision. }} Authorizing Mayor Ivey to execute deed conveying to Alabama Power Company a utility easement on the site of the future

Hoover Fire Station No. 10, which will be located at 3537 Market Street in Ross Bridge. }} Declaring a vehicle with a salvage title as surplus to be sold via online auction. }} Authorizing Mayor Ivey to execute a proposal with CivicPlus to add CivicSend services to the existing website contract. }} Accepting the perpetual maintenance of public improvements within road right of way a portion of Oak Park Lane and approved to proceed with the final seal coat. }} Approving a change to the City of Hoover’s Police Department Offices project. }} Approving the ABC application for Hari Hospitality LLC d/b/a Embassy Suites at 2960 John Hawkins Parkway. }} Approving the ABC application for Sai Dham, Inc. d/b/a Bayleaf Authentic Indian Cuisine at 5426 Hwy. 280, Suite 14.

A8 • February 2015

Hoover rest es C

Happenings

La ke R

d

y

Rd

d

kH

kw sP

oo Br

y

s

ne

le

Ros s Br idge es C Pkw rest y Rd

d

Va ll

kR Br oo do w

ea M

119

id

280 38

12

22

14

10

7

d av an tV all ey R

Rd

Du

na

r Lo

Ro

65 11

18

in

le

a yd lle

S

k aw

y 150

2

wy

19

kw sP

d Ol

H ery om ntg Mo

9 3

16

nn

Patton Chapel Rd

8

Rd

13

c

21

459

R ky

ge

119

17

ey da

d idg eR ky R Roc

5

ig

y

d

Rd

Sh an no n

d

r ve In

31

6

Chapel Rd

Sha d

er R Riv

n hla

ey R

Ox m oo

rR

d

a bian

65

Ca

a hab

kw dP

38

ab aV all

m Colu

459

4

150

Val ley R

280 Colonade Pkwy

Ca h

17 15

ba

e Av rd fl o A

Rd

La

Cah a

h

s ke

W

kw eP or

d Sha

Bl ue

W Oxmoor Rd

65

1

Hoover Sun

Rd

Va

H hn

Jo

R ey

31 ab

all aV

20

h Ca

na

H

e el

Rd

119

d Hw

1

y1

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A9

Now Open

Coming Soon

Pure Style Salon & Spa, 2341 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 121, is now open.

747-6313.

Ashley Mac’s has signed a lease at the Chace Landing shopping center in the space formerly occupied by Genghis Grill, 4730 Chace Circle, Suite 100. They plan to open in the spring.

822-4142. ashleymacs.com.

1

7

McDonald’s new location at 5170 Medford Drive is now open. This location is across Highway 150 from The Grove shopping center.

982-6741. mcdonalds.com.

2

Fitness is now open 3 Orangetheory at 4441 Creekside Ave., Suite 141.

The fitness facility offers heart rate-based interval training.

823-2662. orangetheoryfitness.com/ hoover.

Mandy Pilgreen has opened a new State Farm office at 1960 Braddock Drive, Suite 104.

823-7700. mandypilgreen.com.

4

Lorna Road Chiropractic, 3081 Lorna Road, Suite 104, opened in October. Drs. Latanya Montgomery and Sheri NeSmith operate the clinic and are seeing patients Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m.-noon and 2-6 p.m. and on Fridays by appointment only.

874-9790. lornaroadchiro.com.

5

Iron City Realty, 1957 Hoover Court, Suite 309, is now open.

Broker Stephanie Guyton is the president of the company, and Realtors Stephanie Guyton and Sarah Caiola are employed with her.

365-7557 (Nancy Callahan). 305-2795 (Stephanie Guyton). 515-1598 (Sarah Caiola).

6

Essence Medi Spa has 8 Nova announced that it will open at 160 Main Street, Suite 200, in the Patton Creek shopping center. Dr. Nova Law will own and operate the business. An opening date has not been announced.

Rock N’ Roll Sushi will open its second Birmingham-area location in the Patton Creek shopping center at 4441 Creekside Ave., Suite 133. It will occupy a space that at one time housed a Quiznos franchise. rockandrollsushibar.com.

9

Pacific Rim Sushi & Grill, 3076

12 John Hawkins Parkway, is now

serving Thai food.

403-8788. pacificrimsushi.com.

Somerby at St. Vincent’s One

13 Nineteen, 200 One Nineteen

Blvd., will add 24 assisted living beds to its facility. The certificate of need issued relocates those beds from the former Ashton Gables facility in Hoover.

745-4600. somerbyatstvincents.com.

Hirings and Promotions LAH Real Estate, 2 Chase

14 Corporate Drive, Suite 15, has

Relocations and Renovations On Tap Sports Café, 3440

10 Galleria Circle, has purchased the

former La Paz location at 3340 Galleria Circle. The restaurant’s owners plan to renovate the space and relocate there in early 2015.

988-3203. ontapsportscafe.com.

hired Jackie Davenport as a residential Realtor.

440-4740. lahrealestate.com.

RealtySouth has hired Howard

15 Hovater as a Realtor for its Over

the Mountain office, 1220 Alford Ave. 822-2364. realtysouth.com.

RealtySouth has hired Teresa

16 McLarty as a Realtor for its

News and Accomplishments

Inverness office, 109 Inverness Plaza.

991-6565. realtysouth.com.

James Keller and Susan McDougal of Adventure Travel, 4555 Southlake Parkway, recently attended the 2014 Disney’s EarMarked Conference at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

11

They were two of about 500 travel agents from around the country invited to attend the program specifically for agencies with the “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” designation.

444-4800. adtrav.com.

Richard Grimes has been named

17 CEO of RealtySouth. Former

President and CEO Ty Dodge will serve as chairman emeritus, and Jim Dye will

serve as senior vice president and general sales manager. RealtySouth has offices in Hoover at 109 Inverness Plaza and 1220 Alford Ave. realtysouth.com.

Anniversaries 18 Jefferson’s Restaurant, 4524

Southlake Parkway, Suite 20, celebrated its fourth anniversary in December. The restaurant offers wings, hamburgers, oysters and much more.

989-9464. jeffersonsrestaurant.com/ hoover.

Fitness 4U 24/7, 2539 John

19 Hawkins Parkway, Suite 113,

is celebrating its third anniversary on February 3. The fitness center offers personal training, small group training, cross training and MMA cardio kickboxing.

403-3305. fitness4u247.com.

The Whole Scoop Ice Cream Shop, 3421 South Shades Crest Road, Suite 121, is celebrating its fourth anniversary on February 14. The shop offers freshly scooped ice cream, ice cream cakes, smoothies, milkshakes and more.

444-8000. thewholescoopicecream.com.

20

Vision Gymnastics, 3314 Old Columbiana Road, is celebrating its third anniversary in February. The center offers gymnastics training for children, birthday parties, camps and more.

979-7969. visiongymnastics.com.

21

Closings 22

Genghis Grill, 4730 Chace Circle, Suite 100, has closed.

Water Drainage Solutions 244-1114 244-111 1114 111 4

French Drains • Floodwater Management Systems Downspout Services • Foundation Drains Drainage Basins • Erosion Control AL G.C. License # 43737

WaterDrainageSolutions.com

A10 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Keeping Hoover beautiful, one tree at a time

By REBECCA WALDEN For many with a green thumb, March in Hoover means one thing — the Arbor Day tree giveaway. That annual highlight will take place on Saturday, March 7, at Aldridge Gardens.

Hosted by the Hoover Beautification Board, this year marks the city of Hoover’s 17th annual Arbor Day celebration. Festivities will begin first with the tree giveaway at 9:30 a.m., followed by the announcement of Arbor Day fourth-grade essay contest winners, and will conclude with a ceremonial tree planting.

Since the city’s inaugural Arbor Day celebration in 1999, which took place at Bluff Park Elementary, residents have turned up in ever-increasing numbers to claim one of the seedlings for planting in their own yards.

While the giveaway is only part of the Hoover Beautification Board’s Arbor Day festivities, it remains a highlight for many. For Hoover City Forester Colin Conner, it’s a philanthropic gesture that has already paid environmental dividends.

“We have effectively reforested the Bluff Park Elementary campus just with Arbor Day trees,” he said, adding that many of those were from bare root seedlings provided by the Alabama Forestry Commission.

This year, a total of 150 container seedlings will be available (one per Hoover household), including bald cypress, American beech, dogwood, crabapple, American fringetree, longleaf pine, eastern red cedar, southern red oak and white oak. The trees are purchased with funds from the Arbor Day budget (a modest $2,500, administered by the Hoover Beautification Board and the Hoover Urban Forestry Division) and are sourced from Advantage Forestry LLC in

City of Hoover’s 17th Annual Arbor Day Celebration Hosted by the Hoover Beautification Board Saturday, March 7, Aldridge Gardens 9:30 a.m. Tree giveaway 10:30 a.m. Arbor Day ceremony featuring fourth-grade Arbor Day essay contest winners 11 a.m. Ceremonial tree planting

Judy Thompson and Jennifer Gregory of the Hoover Beautification Board enjoyed the city’s 2014 Arbor Day celebration. Photo courtesy of Lori Salter-Schommer.

Demopolis.

“We always look for native tree species that are ‘urban tolerant,’ that cover a range of sizes and that provide a variety of aesthetic characteristics,” said Conner. “With trees, there is no such thing as one size fits all, so it’s important to plant the right tree in the right place, for the right reasons.”

Conner, along with several area arborists and master gardeners, will be available to help residents learn which Arbor Day tree makes the most sense for their property. These experts can also help answer questions regarding tree planting

and care.

Another highlight this year will be the acknowledgment of fourth-grade Arbor Day essay contest winners. According to Beautification Board member Jennifer Gregory, 2014 marked the first year in the board’s Arbor Day history that all 10 elementary campuses within Hoover City Schools participated. This year’s theme asks students to write about a personal experience with a specific tree or a forested area within the city of Hoover.

Prior to and following the city’s Arbor Day celebration (specifically from Feb. 23 to Mar.

13), Conner will work with area schools to execute their own Arbor Day programs. “We offer that window as a means of accommodating the different school schedules and to keep our celebrations in line with Alabama’s Arbor Week, which is the last full week in February,” he said.

Conner will assist participating Hoover City Schools by providing and planting one tree at each school that hosts a celebration.

If for no other reason than to enjoy a morning outdoors in one of Hoover’s most scenic community spaces, Conner encourages residents to stop by and take in all that Aldridge Gardens has to offer.

“With full access to Aldridge Gardens, visitors will be able to tour the new Dirr hydrangea collection and several new walking trails,” he said. “And each year we look for new vendors to support the event; you never know who might be there with local food or other items!”

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A11

Chamber

Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey installed the new officers and board of directors during the January Chamber Luncheon sponsored by First Commercial Bank. Photo courtesy of Hoover Chamber of Commerce.

Guests enjoy the January Hoover Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Chamber installs new officers and board members, gives awards

By KATIE TURPEN Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey installed the new officers and board of directors during the January Chamber Luncheon sponsored by First Commercial Bank.

Elected at the November luncheon to serve as president for the Chamber in 2015 was Joe Thomas of Capstone Financial Group.

Thomas has been active in the Hoover Chamber for several years, has served on the Board of Directors for the past four years, and as first vice president in 2014.

Jason Cobb, the 2013-14 Chamber president, will continue to serve on the board of directors for 2015.

“You’ve served with integrity and joy over the last two years,” Ivey said of Cobb. “You’ve left us with a membership that’s thriving and a foundation that’s financially sound.”

Chris Schmidt of Daniel Corporation moves up from second vice president to first vice president, while Joel Smith of Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall has been elected to serve as second vice president.

Kathleen Spencer of Spencer Consulting Group was elected as secretary to the board of directors, and Megan Randolph, CPA of Warren Averett, CPAs and Advisors, was elected as treasurer.

Elected to serve on the board for the 20152017 term were Rihan Jamil of BB&T Bank,

Steve Preston of Brookwood Medical Center and Terry Shea of Wrapsody.

Continuing on the board for the 2014-2016 term are Gregg Maercker of First Commercial Bank, Ira Levine of Levine & Associates (replacing Khristi Doss Driver of Southern Company), and Reginald Jeter of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

Continuing on the Board for the 2013-2015 term are Patty Barron of the Birmingham Water Works Board, Paul Dangel of Hyatt-Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel, (replacing Leanne Graham of Sam’s Club), and Jerome Morgan Jr., of Oncort Professional Services. }} Ambassador of the Year and Quarter-Joe

or

Thomas of Capstone Financial Group }} Board Member of the Year-Joel Smith of Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall }} Member of the Year- Glenn Lewis of Redshift Creative }} Top Restaurant (new award)-Outback Steakhouse The next Chamber luncheon will be Thursday, Feb. 19. To attend, make reservations no later than Monday, Feb. 16 by calling 988-5672, or emailing admin@hooverchamber.org. Networking begins at 11:15 a.m., with the meeting starting at noon. The luncheon is $20, or $22 for anyone without reservations, payable at the door.

A12 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Wings and worship Riverchase UMC offers church service in Patton Creek

By MADOLINE MARKHAM The only music you’ll hear at Baumhower’s at Patton Creek on Sunday morning is radio hits streaming from the kitchen. But across the restaurant, in a section of tables and booths surrounded by blank big screens and sports memorabilia, a worship service takes place.

“One of the reasons we gather together is to strengthen and encourage people who generally believe what you believe,” Rev. Wesley Savage says to a small group gathered at tables around him in the restaurant on a Sunday in January as he glances down at notes on his iPad on occasion.

The Stream, a new worship service held by Riverchase United Methodist Church at the restaurant, gained national media attention from the New York Daily News to the Top 10 List on the Late Show with David Letterman when it was announced in December, but now it has settled into a quieter weekly rhythm.

The 45-minute service Savage leads feels more like a Bible study format than a traditional worship service. There’s no liturgy or hymn set, just a Scripture reading and teaching time followed by discussion. Because people are sitting at tables, they can discuss Savage’s message and questions he provides them related to

Rev. Wesley Savage discusses the role of the Bible in daily life with those attending The Stream service at Baumhower’s in Patton Creek.

Scripture or theme before he leads the whole group in discussion. Currently Savage is teaching a series called “Why” that examines why and how people study their Bible. The service concludes with a prayer and information about a way to serve others in the community, such as donating food items to Urban Ministry.

Riverchase began the service to try to reach an audience of young adults who might not feel welcome in a traditional church setting, Savage said.

“It’s really just an atmosphere

where we felt like people would be comfortable going to eat or watch sports,” he said.

After the first meeting, The Stream moved from Buffalo Wild Wings to a new location, Baumhower’s at Patton Creek, because of space concerns and the media hype the first service received. They did still want to stay with the “wings sports feel.”

Savage said the management at Baumhower’s has been very welcoming and provides the attendees with coffee.

Attendance has ranged from 12-30 people since the first Sunday in December. Some of them usually stay after the service for lunch, which begins at 11 a.m.

Savage said he has been pleasantly surprised by the positive feedback he has received on the service.

“Churches should take more risks and try things like this,” he said.

“Over the last 10 years, you have seen churches using bars or restaurants for service; it’s another way to reach people in the community who might

not want to show up to a large church or any church. I think it will be a trend you will continue to see.”

A group of young adults who have not previously been involved in church have come back repeatedly to The Stream, and middle-aged adults have joined in as well. Members at Riverchase have come some weeks to support the service, and a couple of area pastors and members of other churches have joined in to see what it’s about.

“We hope it continues to grow, and we are doing what we can to help spread the word,” Savage said.

The church recently sent out mailers about the service to Hoover residents and encourages those who attend to invite others.

“Ideally, we will continue to have people to join us, whether it’s our church or other churches in community looking to do something similar in other parts of town and seeing if this format clicks with young adults or other age groups.”

The Stream meets on Sundays at 9:45 a.m. at Baumhower’s Restaurant, located at 4445 Creekside Ave. across from the Carmike Patton Creek 15. For more information on the service or Riverchase United Methodist, visit riverchaseumc.org or call 987-4030.

February

STARTING AT

$20,120 /

NEW 2015 COLORADO

HooverAutoMall.com 1624 Montgomery Hwy. Hoover, AL 35216

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A13

Board of education hires superintendent finder service

By JESSA PEASE The Hoover Board of Education voted to employ the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) in its current superintendent search at a Jan. 16 called board meeting.

AASB was a major contender for the position after Susan Salter, director of board development with AASB, made a presentation at the board of education’s regular Jan. 12 meeting. The organization was also able to reduce its originally quoted cost of $21,200 to $19,700. This rate includes a base fee, advertising costs and a New South survey component.

Board president Donna Frazier said she knows that AASB was very in their search for an interim superintendent.

“AASB is our governing body, so to speak,” she said. “I’ve been on this board for 10 years. I have attended a lot of conferences and have always been very impressed with Alabama Association of School Boards.”

Six total research firms were taken into consideration for the position, but the board ultimately chose AASB due to its past experiences with the board.

AASB not only offered the lowest cost to the board, but it also shows an understanding of the region through its 19 superintendent searches across the state in the past 18 months.

The search for five superintendent candidates started the week of Jan. 20.

Salter gave the board a very “ambitious” timeline that kicked off with an online survey to gain feedback from

The Hoover Board of Education voted to employ the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) in its current superintendent search at a Jan. 16 called board meeting. Photo by Jessa Pease.

the community and stakeholders. The schedule has the board naming a permanent superintendent by the end of May, which would give the named superintendent one month of overlap to work with the current interim superintendent Dr. Jim Reese. Reese’s term will expire the end of June.

“The primary thing that we bring to

the table is that we handle the leg work for you,” Salter said. “We handle the application process, the screening process and the recruiting process so that the board is free to focus on the things that are clearly critical — choosing the qualifications of your next leader.”

The board of education will interview the five candidates and make the

final decision concerning the permanent superintendent.

Also at the meeting, the Board of Education decided to change its regular meeting nights from February to June. The board usually meets on the first Monday of the month, but will now meet on the second Monday of those months. The dates were moved

due to a conflict with the Hoover City Council meetings, and Frazier said she would like the community to have the opportunity to attend both.

The new meeting dates are: Feb. 9, March. 9, April 13, May 11 and June 8.

A14 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Say it with chocolate

By ALECIA ROLLINS There are two things about February that we can always count on.

It’s the shortest month of the year, and it is labeled as the “month of love.” Each year it becomes more of a challenge to figure out the perfect gift to get that special someone for Valentine’s Day. My take on this is “say it with chocolate!”

I have always found that a homemade gift shows more love and effort than one purchased at a store.

It doesn’t have to be perfect, the fact that you made something for your special someone speaks volumes! Below you will find a recipe that is simple to follow on how to make your own chocolate truffles.

If time is an issue, no worries! Simply purchase some huge strawberries, large pretzel twists or your favorite chocolate (or vanilla) sandwich cookie and dip them in chocolate. Dip them in dark chocolate and drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative look. Quick and easy delicious treats. Dipping or melting chocolate is available at most retail grocers. Once you have finished the chocolate concoction of your choice, then place in decorative baking cups and in a box tied with a pretty ribbon.

Makes the perfect gift and it truly comes from the heart. Oh and I almost forgot, the most important ingredient in anything you prepare is adding a lot of love, it makes it taste that much better.

RECIPE

Chocolate Truffles

8-9 ounces semi sweet chocolate (bar chocolate or chips) 4 ounces heavy cream 6 ounces dark melting chocolate (or coating chocolate) 6 ounces white melting chocolate (or coating chocolate)

Place semi sweet chocolate in bowl. If using bar chocolate shave chocolate into small pieces. Heat heavy cream in pan to an almost boil, do not boil (what I grew up calling “scalded” milk or cream).

Pour scalded cream over chocolate and stir quickly till all chocolate has dissolved. Once the chocolate and cream mixture has a smooth shiny look, pour into a small square or rectangular dish. Place in the fridge for 2-4 hours. Once mixture has solidified, using a piping bag or small ice cream scoop, place small mounds of chocolate on wax paper, then place in freezer for an hour or overnight.

Melt coating chocolate according to instructions and ready for dipping the truffles. Quickly work with gloved hands to mold chocolate from freezer into balls. Using a fork, quickly dip chocolate balls into coating chocolate and place on wax paper.

Continue until you have completed the number of truffles you wish to make. Once coating chocolate has hardened, go back and dip bottom of truffles in melted chocolate to be sure truffle

Mortgage rates predicted to rise in 2015

F

inancial analysts are predicting a rise in mortgage rates in 2015. This could deter some would-be buyers from entering the real estate market.

Come hear what some of Birmingham’s top professionals in

tions that you may have. Find out if listing your house now will give you an advantage in the market before the rates go up.

Speakers at this seminar include Andy Widener, appraiser; TJC and someone who specializes in staging your home to help your house sell quickly and at maximum sales price.

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR RISING INTEREST RATES?

The event is free to the public and will be held February 8, at 4:00 p.m. at South Oak Title.

Their address is 2803 Greystone Commercial Blvd., #12, Birmingham, AL 35242. For more information or directions, please call Terry Crutchfield at 205-873-3205 or Debbie Burks at 205-261-5160.

is coated completely.

Once hardened drizzle melted white chocolate over truffles for decorative touch. You can also color the white chocolate with a dash of food coloring. The trick is to work quickly and remember keep the truffles small in size, as they are quite rich.

Recipe yields one dozen to one and a half dozen truffles.

Two really important things to remember when working with chocolate. Any amount of water in the chocolate will ruin what you are doing, and when heating chocolate for coating, do so slowly and over low heat in a microwave at 50% power and on top of the stove, use a double boiler.

To contact Rollins, email chefdayna1@gmail.com.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A15

Join Us for the Samford Business Network Birmingham Quarterly Meeting and Breakfast featuring

Robert Moore President of LPL Financial The #1 independent broker-dealer for 19 straight years*

Robert Moore will present what it takes to lead the largest independent broker-dealer in the nation. Robert will discuss his international business experience and how it shaped his own leadership style. He will also share his expertise on capital markets and the important choices facing our generation for continued prosperity and freedom.

When Thursday, February 19, 2015 From 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM CST

Hosted by:

Where The Harbert Center 2019 4th Ave. North Birmingham, AL 35068

Register at www.fiplanpartners.com/robertmoore For More Information Contact Kara Kennedy at (205) 726-2364

Securities Offered Through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Samford University is not affiliated with LPL Financial. *As reported by Financial Planning magazine, June 1996-2014, based on total revenue.

Hoover Sun

A16 • February 2015

Valentine’s Gift Guide For the

For the

OUTDOORSWOMAN

FINE DINER

Hunter Gloss Back Adjustable Rain Boots $158

Valentine’s Day Special Starting at $55 Three course filet dinner with wine.

Add two lobster tails for $15.

This update to the classic rain boot can be adjusted at the back to tighten the fit.

Alabama Outdoors 108 Inverness Plaza 980-3303

Cajun Cleaver 2341 John Hawkins Parkway 444-0496

For the

ELEGANT 10KT Gold Floral Ring $275 This rose, yellow and white ring is perfect with any outfit.

Reflections Diamond Jewelry 1845 Montgomery Highway 982-4888

For the

STYLISH Alex and Ani bracelets Initials, Tree of Life, Lotus Peace Petals- $28 each Night’s Mosaic Amethyst-$38 Scarlet Luminary-$38 These bracelets are made with refined metals and with completely original designs allow everyone to have a piece of jewelry that is truly customized.

Wrapsody 161 Main Street, #127 wrapsodyonline.com

For that

SPECIAL SOMEONE My Heart’s Open for You $55 A dozen roses come in a ceramic heart vase that is available in different colors.

Hoover Florist 1905 Hoover Court 823-5273

“We got exactly the house we wanted” When Lynlee and Alan Palmer decided to sell their home and buy more space for son Mac, daughter Adele, and the family’s black lab Champ, they looked to long-time friend and experienced Realtor Kim Maddox with ARC Realty for guidance. “We had some challenges selling our home, but Kim worked through the obstacles,” says Alan. “Our search for a new home started right here,” says Lynlee, referring to the location of their new home in Mountain Brook. “We looked at other houses, but we got exactly the location we wanted. I’d be happy to live here forever.”

Helping clients (who typically become friends) is what Kim loves about being a Realtor. “It’s rewarding to help a family find a home they love.”

Kim made a move last year, too, to ARC Realty. “This is an exciting time to be a Realtor, and the ARC team makes it fun. ARC believes in training and customer service, which translates to happy customers!”

A Relationship Company

4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35243 205.969.8910

www.arcrealtyco.com Mac, Champ, Lynlee, Adele and Alan Palmer on the front porch of their new Mountain Brook home

Kim Maddox • (205) 790-4044 • kmaddox@arcrealtyco.com

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A17

‘Always an adventure’ Remembering the life of Officer Mack Bargainnier

By KATIE TURPEN Hoover police officer Barry Stamps will never forget his first call with fellow officer Mack Bargainnier a little more than 19 years ago.

“We clocked somebody going 90 mph. We then went flying like a rocket down I-459 burning rubber. I was terrified,” Stamps said with a laugh. “After that, one cup of coffee together turned into 500 cups of coffee together.”

“Mack was just gold. He bled gold.”

On Jan. 8, Mack Bargainnier of Hoover passed away after a long battle with cancer.

He is survived by his wife and three children, two stepchildren and 12 grandchildren. Mack was known in the community as a true public servant willing to help anyone he came across.

He served the Hoover Police Department for 27 years before retiring in 2012.

“He had a job that he just loved,” his wife, Judi, said. “He had been in the military, which brought about his desire to help people and go into the police force.”

Judi and Mack married in 1992. Mack loved

fly fishing, hunting and competitive shooting.

Judi said the two of them would often visit the mountains of North Georgia together. She describes her husband as meticulous, kind and thoughtful.

“His grandchildren knew when they got into Poppy’s lap not to mess with his hair,” she said with a smile.

Captain Gregg Rector with the Hoover Police Department echoes Judi’s sentiment about Mack’s daily job.

“He always looked professional, from head to toe. There was never a hair out of place. He took a tremendous amount of pride in job,” Rector said. “Honor, pride [and] dignity… exemplified who he was.”

Mack’s career continued after retirement, when he served as a Student Resource Officer (SRO) at Gwin Elementary School.

“That was his calling. He loved being with those kids,” Judi said. “He said it was like having more than 300 grandchildren. They would send him cards, letters and drawings, and that would just make his day.”

2704 20th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209

Officer Mack Bargainnier passed away in January. He served the Hoover Police Department for 27 years and enjoyed fly fishing. Photo courtesy of Judi Bargainnier.

In 2003, Mack began battling papillary thyroid cancer. In 2009, he was referred to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. His treatment involved daily oral chemo, numerous prescription medications and follow-ups in Houston every 4-6 months.

However, this setback never stopped Mack from living a full life. Judi remembers Mack getting up going to work even when he was taking the oral chemo.

“He said ‘I’m not going to let this disease define me. I’m going to get out and do what I can,’” said Judi. “He was a trooper. He fought a good fight.”

Although Mack’s fight finally came to an end, it is clear his spirit lives on in Judi.

“He was the absolute love of my life,” Judi said. “We both adopted the saying, ‘It’s always an adventure.’ No matter what was happening in our lives, that’s just how we saw it.”

A18 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Area churches host seasonal consignment sales

By REBECCA WALDEN Bargain hunters in the know are already formulating their game plan to shop the area’s major children’s consignment sales.

Two long-standing, high quality sales in

Hoover, Bluff Park United Methodist’s Bargains on the Bluff and Riverchase United Methodist’s T-N-T sale, are already sorting and preparing their sales inventory (consignor registration windows took place in January).

Both sales boast a large selection of everything

Bargains on the Bluff will offer juniors clothing, toys, books, children’s accessories, furniture and more at its February sale.

Bargains on the Bluff Bluff Park United Methodist Church Feb. 20, Public Sale, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Feb 21, Public Discount Sale, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (select items 25% off) Using the tagline, “Bringing down the cost of growing up!”, this sale is replete with clothing items ranging from preemie

to preteen. It also includes select juniors clothing and even maternity for expectant moms. Toys, books, children’s accessories and furniture are also a large part of this sale’s inventory. Cash, checks and major credit cards are accepted (a small convenience fee may apply).

For more, visit bluffparkumc.org/children/ bargainsonthebluff/

from children’s clothing to toys, books and gently used accessories and furniture.

“Proceeds from this sale serve to support and enhance programs of our school and children’s programs of Riverchase United Methodist,” said Leslie DeLoach, Riverchase Day School

director. “We also support children’s programs and projects in our community, our nation and the world. Our mission is to serve children wherever we find a need.”

At Riverchase United Methodist’s T-N-T (Tried-N-True) sale, shoppers can expect to find a wide inventory of children’s clothing, shoes, toys, as well as baby strollers, children’s furniture and accessories. Photo courtesy of Sarah Patrick.

T-N-T Consignment Sale Riverchase United Methodist Church Mar. 6, Public Sale, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Mar. 7, Public Discount Sale, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. (select items 30% off) Benefitting the work of Riverchase Day School, the T-N-T (Tried-N-True) sale

offers an expansive inventory. Shoppers can expect to find a wide selection of clothing, strollers, toys, puzzles, stuffed animals, crib bedding and more. Sale organizers do allow shoppers to bring laundry baskets for collecting items they wish to buy. It is important to note that the only methods of payment accepted at this sale are cash and personal check.

For more, visit riverchase-tnt.com/

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A19

A20 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Business

Grain-free bakery arrives at Bluff Park

By KATIE TURPEN With Valentine’s Day around the corner, residents may be looking for a special spot to pick up treats. For those looking for something grain-free and paleo diet-friendly, they’re in luck. There’s a new kind of bakery now open in Bluff Park.

In January, Consider it Joy Baking moved into the former Ashley Mac’s location in Bluff Park.

Owner Elizabeth Wood focuses on grain-free sweets with no refined sugar. She sells a variety of grain-free goodies including granola, muffins, waffles, cookies, cakes and cupcakes. She also has lunch items such as salads and soups. Possible “grab and go” lunch specials include nonmayo chicken salad with red wine vinegar, olive oil, fresh herbs and veggies, along with other items such as large garden salads with protein on top. A tuna or salmon salad and sampler packs of various baked goods could also be in the mix.

Planned frozen items include slice-and-bake cookie dough, waffles and possibly pizza crust.

Wood uses various ingredients such as almond and coconut. Some favorite recipes include lemon poppy seed muffins, chocolate cake pops, rosemary raisin crackers and more.

She said her son’s food sensitivity has kept focus on grain-free items that still taste delicious. Wood refers to her two young children as her “little foodies” and enjoys sending them to school with fun treats in their lunchboxes.

“These treats are especially good for people specifically with food allergies or food intolerances,” Wood said.

Wood said the name of the bakery comes from a Bible verse, James 1:2: “....when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” Wood sees food as an outlet of great joy for both her and her family.

At the new location, she also hopes to offer cooking classes about the grain-free lifestyle.

Wood is active in the Hoover community, having worked for local café Organic Harvest and also having sold her goods at the Moss Rock Festival

Local baker Elizabeth Wood enjoys baking delicious, grain-free treats. Her business opened in January in Bluff Park. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Wood.

this past November at The Preserve. She looks forward to her new home in Bluff Park and hopes to fill a much-needed niche in the local community.

For more information, search “Consider it Joy Baking” on Facebook. Wood also regularly shares recipes on her blog at consideritjoybaking.com.

Consider it Joy Baking 759 Shades Mountain Plaza 538-7967 Consideritjoybaking.com

© 2015 Alabama Power Company

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A21

Third generation florist enjoys home in Hoover

By REBECCA WALDEN A third generation florist, Karen Morgan Jenkins likes to say she was born into the business.

Her grandparents owned and operated the former Butler’s Flowers of Homewood in the 1950s, then launched another family business – Wayside Nurseries in Panama City.

Her mother, Bebe Butler Morgan, opened Hoover Florist on April Fool’s Day in 1981.

The seed for Jenkins’ eventual occupation was planted in the holiday seasons of her childhood, when she’d accompany her mother down to the beach to assist her grandmother during the peak season.

It led to Jenkins fostering three decades of working alongside her mother in the florist business. In July 2013, shortly after her mother passed, Jenkins took over Hoover Florist full time.

“There is nothing more rewarding than making a beautiful arrangement and seeing the reaction as the recipient receives it,” said Jenkins, who is busily preparing for Valentine’s Day. “I think that the best part of my job is making people smile! Creating beautiful arrangements, continuing to learn new design techniques and see all of the beautiful new varieties of flowers that come out every year, those are the reasons that I continue to do what I do every day.”

have flowers delivered to their special someone so that everyone else sees them – consider delivering them on Thursday this year instead of Friday.

It is a nice way not to be like everyone else and to stand out a little more.”

For those considering what to send their Valentine outside the typical spray of roses or chocolates, Hoover Florist also designs and delivers everything from plush animals, scented candle baskets, snack and other goodie baskets, as well as a wide variety of plants.

The shop has delivered on all manner of custom client requests before, and expects that this year will be no exception.

“We had one young man preparing for a proposal, who brought us a box he wanted filled with roses,” said Jenkins. “The card read, ‘Will you?’ and on the inside, with the engagement ring in the center, a card read, ‘marry me’? We truly have the most loyal and wonderful customers in the world, and we love sharing in these memorable moments!”

Since July 2013, Karen Morgan Jenkins has owned Hoover Florist. She grew up in the business, helping both her grandparents and her mother through three florist and nursery related family businesses. Jenkins and her staff offer a wide variety of Valentine’s Day floral, plant and gift basket options. Photo by Rebecca Walden.

In helping her clients, both established and new, prepare for Valentine’s Day, which this year falls on a Saturday, Jenkins said she cannot emphasize enough the importance of ordering early. Hoover Sun readers

take note – by the time our print edition hits your mailbox, it’s time to order.

“I would recommend customers call in their Valentine’s flowers two weeks ahead as it is very hard to

predict what customers will want and we would rather make sure that we have enough flowers purchased for everyone’s order,” said Jenkins. “I would also encourage a lot of the guys out there, the ones who like to

Hands on Care, Close to Home.

Hoover Florist 823-5273 1905 Hoover Court

! k or w d

^

TherapySouth is an outpatient physical therapy practice specializing in personalized, hands on care. Our new clinic on the GodSpeed campus in Riverchase offers: • Orthopaedic physical therapy • Functional dry needling and manual therapy • Biomechanics and functional movement correction • Injury prevention • Sports medicine (injuries, rehab and performance enhancement)

205.989.4110 www.godspeed.org

RIVERCHASE CLINIC 100 Little Valley Court | Just off Valleydale Road 205.874.9523 | www.therapysouth.com

Baseball lessons with Wes Helms of the Florida Marlins

Crossfit coaching by Blake Prime of Lululemon

Come visit our new clinic on the GodSpeed campus and get a Functional Movement Screening before you begin your training.

A22 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

LITERATURE

a finalist for the PEN/Beyond Margins award.

Born in Bombay, India, Umrigar came to the U.S. when she was 21. She worked for many years as an award-winning reporter, columnist and magazine writer before the publication of her first novel. She currently teaches at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.

CONTINUED from page A1 books are hefty reads and deal with difficult subjects such as obesity and mental illness. A lot of readers would be intimidated by the heaviness, but I’ve yet to meet a reader who didn’t love his books. They’re just magical. You fall in love with the characters and don’t forget them.”

Borden said the format has not changed this year, though the conference has a cast of special authors. She said several of Saturday authors could be keynote speakers themselves.

“The ultimate goal of Southern Voices is to connect our patrons with the authors, artists and musicians that they love,” said Borden. “Many festivals are geared to aspiring writers. Ours is not; it is a conference for readers. We hope at the end of the day that our audience feels like they know a little more about the authors they love, and possibly even discover a new author to love that they had not heard of before.”

Read on to find out about this year’s lineup.

For more information or for tickets, visit hooverlibrary.org/sv.

6 Guests enjoy the 2014 Southern Voices festival. Photo courtesy of Hoover Public Library.

Arts in Writing from Vermont College. Lamb was in the ninth year of his 25-year career as a high school English teacher at his alma mater, the Norwich Free Academy, when he began to write fiction in 1981.

Authors Conference Saturday, Feb. 28 Registration: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Library Theatre & The Library Plaza - Book sales and signings will follow the afternoon session.

An evening with Wally Lamb Friday, Feb. 27, 7 p.m.

The Library Theatre, $35 Wally Lamb is the critically acclaimed author of She’s Come Undone, I Know This Much Is True, The Hour I First Believed and most recently, We Are Water. Lamb’s first two novels were #1 New York Times best sellers and Oprah’s Book Club selections.

Lamb contributes his time as a volunteer facilitator at York Correctional Institution, a women’s prison in Niantic, Connecticut.

Lamb’s volunteerism culminated in the publication of two collections of writings by his students: Couldn’t Keep It to Myself and I’ll Fly Away. Writing, Lamb found, was an unexpected and transforming way for these women to recapture their humanity and the hope that many of them had long since lost.

Lamb is a Connecticut native who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in teaching from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Fine

1

Karen Abbott is the nonfiction author of three books, including Sin in the Second City, American Rose and her latest, Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy. A writer for Disunion, The New York Times series about the Civil War, Abbott’s most recent work tells the true stories of four daring female Civil War spies. A native of Philadelphia, Abbott currently resides in New York City and is working on her next book, the real tale of a Gilded Age con artist.

2

Amy Greene has been hailed as one of the freshest new voices in Appalachian fiction. Her debut novel, Bloodroot, was a national best seller, receiving a starred review from Booklist and Kirkus Reviews. Her second

novel, Long Man, received similar accolades when published in 2014. Born and raised in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Greene was named as the 2010 Tennessee Writer of the Year by the Tennessee Writer’s Alliance.

3

James Scott is the author of the debut novel, The Kept. Heralded as an Amazon Best Book of the Month and Best Mystery, Thriller and Suspense title, The Kept is set in 1897 and recounts the story of an upstate New York midwife and her 12-year-old son as they seek revenge for the murder of their family.

Called a “bright new voice in American fiction”

by Ron Rash, Scott currently resides in western Massachusetts.

4

Jon Sealy’s debut novel, The Whiskey Baron, has been called a “simmering powerhouse of a novel” by Wiley Cash.

Set in 1932 South Carolina, one man’s whiskey empire is set on the verge of collapse when another man commits murder outside his business. A native of upstate South Carolina, Sealy currently lives in Richmond, Virginia.

5

Thrity Umrigar is the best-selling author of the novels Bombay Time, The Space Between Us, If Today Be Sweet and The Weight of Heaven. The Space Between Us was

Meg Wolitzer’s novels include The Interestings, The Uncoupling, The TenYear Nap, The Position and The Wife.

Wolitzer’s short fiction has appeared in The Best American Short Stories and has won The Pushcart Prize. Additionally, two films have been based on her work: This Is My Life, scripted and directed by Nora Ephron and the 2006 TV movie Surrender, Dorothy, starring Diane Keaton. A resident of New York City, Wolitzer currently works as an instructor in the MFA program at Stony Brook Southampton.

7

Chelsea Cain is the best-selling author of the popular Archie Sheridan/Gretchen Lowell thrillers Heartsick, Sweetheart, and Evil at Heart, among others. Described as “steamy and perverse” by The New York Times, Cain’s novels are included in NPR’s list of the top 100 thrillers ever written. Cain’s newest title, One Kick, features a new character in the spotlight: Kick Lannigan. A native of Iowa City, Iowa, Cain spent her early years in a hippie commune. Today, she lives in Portland, Oregon.

Artist Melanie Morris Melanie Morris’ contemporary landscapes and florals are in several corporate collections including the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, Energen Corporation, Peace College and Southern States Bank.

“I have no choice but to paint – it is like breathing for me,” Morris said.

Morris lives in Birmingham. For more, visit MelanieMorrisArt.com.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • A23

Get to know Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors

By MADISON MILLER After a decade of creating their own music, Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors have something that most aspiring musicians crave from the beginning of their careers: confidence in their work. Holcomb released his first album in 2005. Since then, he and his band have released several albums and are about to release a new one titled Medicine.

Past albums have taken the band as long as two months to produce, but this album took only eight days, Holcomb said. “[We] knew the songs,” Holcomb said.

“We had fun and enjoyed ourselves.”

Holcomb and the band will perform at the Hoover Public Library as part of its Southern Voices series this month. The band is based in Nashville, and Holcomb is originally from Memphis. Holcomb’s Neighbors include Nathan Dugger on guitar and keyboard, Rick Brinsfield on bass and Holcomb’s wife, Ellie, on vocals and guitar, though Ellie will soon leave the band to take care of their daughter, Emmylou.

Holcomb admits that trying to describe his own music is difficult, but he believes it most closely resembles Americana, a blend of rock and folk.

When writing songs, Holcomb takes inspiration from a variety of sources. An avid reader, he often writes songs inspired by some of his favorite authors. Holcomb comes from large family, and his writing also reflects his memories of growing up.

The band finds a constant source of inspiration in their fans’ experiences, as well.

Holcomb often asks his fans where they first heard his music and enjoys the variety of answers he receives. He frequently hears that his listeners receive a feeling that, whatever their emotions might be, they are not alone

COACHES

CONTINUED from page A1 Steve Gaydosh said.

Former Hoover High coach Steve Knutson was one of those Gaydosh was close to.

And that’s how Jacob Gaydosh ended up coaching wrestling at Hoover. Knutson called Steve and asked if Jacob would be interested in joining his staff as an assistant.

“Jacob was right there when I got the call, and I asked him if he was interested and he said yes.”

After two years as an assistant, Jacob took over as head coach when Knutson left to go to graduate school.

The younger Gaydosh, now 36, had gone to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to wrestle, but his real dream was to be in sports broadcasting — specifically dreaming of ultimately landing at ESPN. But after a period of time interning for the CBS affiliate in Chattanooga and doing Friday night football highlights and working weekends, he came to the realization that having that kind of a career and a family wouldn’t jibe.

“I had no desire to ever coach,” Jacob said.

But he helped out at a Chattanooga high school his last semester at UTC. Then he helped his dad some at Vestavia. He liked it enough that he decided to give teaching and coaching a shot.

Though he had enjoyed his internship at the station in Chattanooga, he also saw how much time the sports anchors spent away from home.

“I said if I do that and have a family one day I’d have a really hard time seeing my kids, and seeing them in athletics or band or whatever they did.”

And he has four children now.

“My wife and kids come to most of our matches and stuff.”

Hoover, which has a rich wrestling history with five state championships, is in something of a rebuilding mode. Gaydosh is working on

Drew Holcomb. Photo courtesy of Good Time Inc.

in them.

“There’s an underlying sense of hope amidst hardship [in our songs]…” he said. “Everybody’s experiences are very different.”

The band has played in the Birmingham area many times throughout the years, but their Southern Voices show will be the first time they have played in Hoover. Holcomb said that the band is excited for the opportunity to play in the series.

Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors will perform at 8 p.m. on Feb. 25 and 26 at the Hoover Public Library as part of Southern Voices 2015.

Tickets are $25. For more, visit hooverlibrary. org.

getting the feeder programs — youth leagues and middle schools — into good shape again, since he knows that is the way to continued success. He especially wants to get the youth league numbers up.

“I’m a Cubs fan,” he said, “so I use that as an analogy. Let’s get the farm system going and let’s go from there. For us long term, we’ve got to get the guys at the middle school program recruiting for us and teaching what we want them to teach, same techniques. We’ve got two guys at the middle schools doing a great job with that. We’re getting the youth league going again, so hopefully in the next three, four years, it’ll be like it was 10, 15 years ago. That’s why Vestavia and Thompson are so good.

“Hopefully, we can compete for a state championship in two to three years.”

The elder Gaydosh is justifiably proud of his son.

“He’s doing a great job. It’s a great situation.

And that’s one thing I like about him being at Hoover, because my grandkids are around.”

That has its drawbacks, too.

“We competed a couple of years ago against each other, and it was a really close match but we won,” the Rebels coach said. “And my granddaughter came up and said, ‘Congratulations, Pop, but I wanted my daddy to win.’”

What is it about wrestling that has its grip on the Gaydoshes?

“Who you are comes out,” Steve Gaydosh said. “Who you are as a person comes out on the mat. If you’ve got a weakness, it’s going to come out. If you’re going to be really good, you’ve got to do everything right. The best wrestlers are great students too. It’s about character, discipline, habits that you’ve developed in life, that’s what makes the difference between winning and losing a one-point match in overtime.

“Ultimately, what we’re teaching these guys are to develop habits that will make them successful the rest of their lives. Get a good job, be a good father, a good husband.”

60 YEARS STRONG! w w w.realtysouth.com

NOW OPEN

Valleydale & Caldwell Mill Rd.

Easy to transfer.

Easier to save.

4

$

Generics*

2653 Valleydale Road • Birmingham, AL 35244 *Prescription Program includes up to a 30-day supply for $4 and a 90-day supply for $10 of covered generic drugs at commonly prescribed dosages. Prices for some drugs covered by the Prescription Program may be higher and may vary in some states. Restrictions apply. See walmart.com or your Walmart Pharmacist for details. Š2015 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Sun B SECTION

Community B3 School House B8 Sports B11 Calendar B17

Protecting

the mountain

By SYDNEY CROMWELL The trees that surround Larry Rodick’s home on Shades Mountain aren’t just beautiful scenery to him — they’re protection from mudslides that save the city $1.5 million. As the president of Friends of Shades Mountain, Rodick keeps a watchful eye for urban development that could threaten those trees and the mountain they stand on.

“Our mission is to preserve it, protect it and keep it like it is,” Rodick said. “We think its sort of a treasure for the county. It’s the largest urban forest left in Jefferson County.”

Friends of Shades Mountain started in 2003 after Rodick and some friends joined the residents of Kemp Drive in protesting a proposed neighborhood on the mountain. The development plan called for the removal of large swaths of trees and the creation of a steep road and 14 homes, but Homewood officials eventually rejected the plan after the residents’ response.

Rodick realized that Shades Mountain

needed people to stand up for it.

The group now has around 50 dues-paying members and focuses on the 12.5-mile stretch of Shades Mountain between U.S. 280 and Highway 150. The mountain runs through portions of Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover, Birmingham and unincorporated Jefferson County.

Many parts of the mountain are already covered in roads, neighborhoods and businesses. However, Rodick estimates that a majority of the mountain, around 1,900 acres, has not yet been developed. These areas, Rodick said, are not only beautiful but also are home to a variety of wildlife, including species like the scarlet tanager that could not live near Birmingham without Shades Mountain.

Additionally, the forest saves the Birmingham area from mudslides, excess storm water runoff and air pollution.

“Any time you take trees off and replace it with cement, you’re going to get much more runoff than you would have had otherwise,” Rodick said.

Friends of Shades Mountain President Larry Rodick points out undeveloped forests during a drive along the north side of Shades Mountain. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

There is already evidence of what happens when parts of the mountain are too heavily developed. U.S. 31 cuts across the mountain and often faces rock and mudslides after severe storms.

Shades Creek, which runs along the north side of Shades Mountain, has recently seen increased pollution and

decreased oxygen levels and fish populations due to nearby development.

“The creek is already not in good shape according to scientists who look at it,” Rodick said. “In spite of everybody’s efforts to control what goes in the creek, there’s still a lot of bad stuff that goes in.”

Rodick points out one neighborhood, Waterford Falls, as “a perfect example of what not to do.” When the neighborhood was built around 15 years ago, the developers sheared off trees and part of the mountain

See SHADES MOUNTAIN | pg B6

B2 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

N E T D S I S D E AY R P

SA L E

¤ ¤

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B3

Community Riverchase Loves Artists Art Show returns

By KATIE TURPEN Get ready to celebrate the arts. The ninth annual Riverchase Loves Artists Art Show, sponsored by the Riverchase Women’s Club, will be held Saturday, Feb. 7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Notable artists from around Alabama will be exhibiting and selling their work in a variety of mediums, including oil and watercolor paintings, jewelry, metal, wood, pottery, glass, photography and fiber art.

Admission is free.

“Our mixture of artists brings something for everyone,” said Lynne Cooper, art show chairman. “From jewelry to pottery to paintings and furniture to glass and textiles, we have searched our area for the best of the best,” Cooper said.

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy food and drink while they shop.

“Having the show indoors is another big plus,” Cooper said. “Patrons can shop, eat and even enjoy a glass of wine.”

Cooper said that what makes the Riverchase Loves Artists show unique is that all proceeds benefit three local charities: Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, the Amelia Center and the Exceptional Foundation.

Cooper hopes the community will come out and support all the artists and local charities.

“It is a fun show for shoppers to look and buy,” Cooper said. “It also allows our entire community to come together for a worthy cause.”

For more, visit riverchaselovesartists.com.

The ninth annual Riverchase Loves Artists Art Show, sponsored by the Riverchase Women’s Club, will be held Saturday, Feb. 7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Notable artists from around Alabama will be exhibiting and selling their work in a variety of mediums, including oil and watercolor paintings.

Hoover resident assists in wreath laying ceremony In December, Cadets Connor Campbell (Hoover resident), Jared and Brianna Fuchs and Nathan Ruiz of the Bessemer Civil Air Patrol, assisted Gov. Robert Bentley in placing a wreath at the Veterans’ Memorial during a beautiful ceremony at the Capitol building in Montgomery. These cadets participated in Wreaths Across America by selling wreaths to decorate all the graves at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo. They assisted in placing 3,100 wreaths on the graves along with the rest of their squadron, numerous Veteran families and other community groups. Photo courtesy of Sherri Fuchs.

OPEN MON-FRI 7AM-6PM SAT 8AM-5PM • (888) 693-9020

HOME OF THE 30 MINUTE OIL CHANGE PLEDGE Expires 3/15/15

$10.00 OFF

ANY OIL CHANGE

Expires 3/15/15

10% OFF

ANY ACCESSORY OR OVER THE COUNTER SALE

Expires 3/15/15

$25.00 OFF ANY SERVICE OR REPAIR

Must spend over $50. Choose any service available in our dealership. This exclusive offer not valid for insurance work, warranty, over the counter sales, other offers or service specials. Must be redeemed at one visit.

Has no cash surrender value.

B4 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Hoover Service Club presents Hearts and Harmony Gala

Third Annual Hearts and Harmony Gala Feb. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Hyatt RegencyThe Wynfrey Hotel Tickets- $100 ($36 is tax deductible)

Featuring the Hoover High School First Edition Jazz Band, Miss Alabama Jaime Nutter, a live and silent auction and more.

Proceeds benefit local charities and college scholarships for Hoover City students.

For tickets, call 903-4987.

By KATIE TURPEN This month, residents are invited to dine for a cause. The Hoover Service Club will host the third annual Hearts and Harmony Gala at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 at the Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel.

Tickets are $100 per person, $36 of which is tax-deductible. The event will feature the Hoover High School First Edition Jazz Band, Miss Alabama Jaime Nutter, a live and silent auction and more. Proceeds benefit local charities and college scholarships for Hoover City students.

The Hoover Service Club, a nonprofit organization for civic-minded women, was organized in May 1975

by Flora Mae Pike and 10 other women. The club donates to 21 different charitable organizations a year and today has approximately 170 members.

“All of our time is completely voluntary,” club member Jennifer Caton said. “The money that we raise, you can actually see that it makes a difference. And we want to keep growing.”

The main goals of the organization are to give aid to the needy in our community, to further education through scholarships and to recognize outstanding volunteer service in the

Guests enjoy the 2014 Hearts and Harmony Gala presented by the Hoover Service Club. Photo courtesy of Rhonda Boyd.

community. Yearly projects include a Christmas gift-wrapping booth at Riverchase Galleria for Grace House Ministries and filling up Easter baskets

for distribution by Green Valley Food Bank. The women also provide school supplies for foster children.

“It’s more rewarding to us than

anything, because it gives us a feeling that we are doing something worthwhile,” club member Linda Wasden said. “And not only that but I have

made some dear friends because of it.”

For ticket information, please call 903-4987.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B5

Festival of Sacred Music coming to Bluff Park “Come, Sing and Be Joyful” The Over the Mountain Festival of Sacred Music Chorus Sunday, Feb. 15, 4 p.m.

Bluff Park United Methodist Church otmfestivals.org

By KATIE TURPEN Joyful sounds will fill the air over local hill tops this month. Bluff Park United Methodist Church is hosting the seventh annual Over the Mountain Festival of Sacred Music.

The choral concert is titled “Come, Sing and Be Joyful” and is directed by James A. Brown and accompanied by organist Daniel Lawhon and members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

Brown presently serves as the director of music and worship at Independent Presbyterian Church (IPC) of Memphis, Tennessee, a position held since 1993. Prior to coming to IPC, he was director of music at Briarwood Presbyterian Church for 16 years. Lawhon, a Kentucky native, serves as organist/choir director at the Baptist Church of the Covenant in Birmingham.

Last year’s festival had a chorus of more than 90 singers from more than 30 different church choirs and choral groups from

This year, Bluff Park United Methodist Church will host the seventh annual Over the Mountain Festival of Sacred Music. Photo courtesy of Gaston White.

Birmingham as well as other cities in the Southeast.

This year, 100 singers are registered and members of Brown’s choir in Memphis will be joining as well.

The concert will feature music from

the Baroque to Contemporary periods along with four hymns of the church arranged for choir, organ, brass, timpani and congregation.

“We look forward to a wonderful time together with great sacred

music,” said singer Gaston White.

Begun in 2008 as an idea of a small group of individuals who saw the value of sacred choral music to singers and the community, OTM Festivals came about as a result

work of an all-volunteer planning committee.

For more, visit otmfestivals.org or contact Gaston White at 879-1909 or pgwhite1909@gmail.com.

Hoover Sun

B6 • February 2015

Waterford Falls is a subdivision on Shades Mountain that was built without proper precautions. Some of the first residents of Waterford Falls filed lawsuits after repeated mudslides, and many immediately sold their homes. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

SHADES MOUNTAIN CONTINUED from page B1

face without creating a barrier for erosion. Rainstorms almost immediately brought mudslides down on

the houses, and many new homeowners quickly re-sold their houses and moved out. Rodick and his wife, Annie, remember residents putting up signs saying, “Don’t come here.”

“It was the biggest mess I’ve ever seen,” Rodick said.

The Friends of Shades Mountain have not directly stopped any developments since their first one in 2003.

However, Rodick said he has noticed increased scrutiny from planning officials for proposed Shades Mountain developments, and he believes the group

is partly responsible for that. Their ultimate goal is to create a preservation district bounded by Highway 150, U.S. 280, Shades Creek and Shades Crest Road. The district would restrict what can be built and “keep developers from just scouring the mountain.”

Through the efforts of Friends of Shades Mountain, Rodick wants the mountain to look almost exactly the same in a decade as it does today: covered in leafy trees rather than rooftops.

To learn more, visit friendsofshadesmountain.org.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B7

Q&A with

Shannon LaBrie

Valentine’s

Special

Give Your Valentine the Gift of Beauty.

Hair Color • Highlights • Cut • Style Chemical Texturizing Facial • Manicure • Pedicure

Singer/songwriter Shannon LaBrie will be playing a live show on Feb. 5 at Moonlight on the Mountain in Bluff Park. Photo courtesy of Shannon LaBrie.

Nashville singer comes to Moonlight on the Mountain this month

By KATIE TURPEN Singer/songwriter Shannon LaBrie will be playing a live show on Feb. 5 at Moonlight on the Mountain in Bluff Park. Sara Bath Go will be her opening act, and the cost for the show is $12.

Music Connection named LaBrie as one of the “Best Unsigned Artists of 2013” and Labrie’s debut at Austin City Limits Music Festival earned rave reviews of her live performance. The Hoover Sun recently caught up with LaBrie to ask about her inspiration and musical influences.

For more about Labrie, visit shannonlabriemusic.com. For more about Go, visit sarabethsongs.com.

Q A

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in Lincoln, Nebraska but Nashville, Tennessee is home to me now.

I’m a singer-songwriter and have been writing lots of new songs as of late. I have an infatuation with lions. I love the story and history and taste of wine. I drive a 1992 Honda Wagon named Rhonda. I’m a terrible speller.

Q A

Describe what type of music you write and perform.

I’m classified as a “singer-songwriter,” and my music has a strong jazz and rock

influence. To sum it up, I was raised on James Taylor and Lauryn Hill.

Q A

Where does your inspiration come from?

Life. Everything around me. I think I’m especially inspired by pain and loss. I tend to write songs about things I’ve personally experienced and the things that my friends have experienced.

Q A

What’s the greatest compliment you’ve ever received about your music? “ You remind me of Jeff Buckley.”

He was and is still one of the most influential musicians in my life. I didn’t discover him until I moved to Nashville but, he’s so amazing. He is honest. Nothing can be better or truer about the sounds and lyrics of song than pure honesty!

Q A

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

Be prepared to work harder than anyone you know. Once you are working harder than anyone you know, work even harder. It is a never ending climb and you must love your craft or you will quit. It’s a marathon not a sprint.

About Moonlight on the Mountain Located at 585 Shades Crest Road in Bluff Park, Moonlight on the Mountain was designed to be a comfortable listening venue, presenting a variety of original acoustic performers in an casual concert format. Neither a bar nor a restaurant, Moonlight invites music fans to come hear artists of folk, Americana, roots, country and bluegrass and more in a casual setting.

Inspired by the appeal of house concerts and “unplugged” shows favored by musicians and small audiences nationwide, the venue showcases singers, songwriters and instrumentalists in a mini-theater environment where guests can bring their own snacks and beverages.

When not presenting music, The Moonlight hosts private events, with room for 85 to 100 people to gather. In addition to the stage, there are spacious restrooms, a kitchenette, 2,600 square feet of carpeted floor space, and a mountain crest view overlooking the Oxmoor Valley.

Visit moonlightonthemtn.com. or call 243-8851 for more information.

Give the Gift Certificates to the Salon at Winonah School of Cosmetology, offered now at a discounted Price,

up to 25% OFF!

$100.00 Gift Certificate for Only $75.00 $75.00 Gift Certificate for Only $60.00 $50.00 Gift Certificate for Only $40.00 $25.00 Gift Certificate for Only $20.00

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a special person or couple in your life, give the gift no one returns: the gift of beauty, the Gift Certificates for Salon Services at Winonah School of Cosmetology.

Valentine’s Gift cards are available in many denomination and can be used for any service or combination of services – there’s something for everyone on our salon menu!

205-703-8070 • 205-870-8761 Hours Tues 11:00-3:30 Wed-Sat 10:00-3:30

1870 Chace Drive, Suite 140 Hoover, AL. 35244 www.winonah.net

B8 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

School House South Shades Crest Elementary School collects canned items for the needy

Prince of Peace middle school students gather behind project leaders on a November afternoon to watch the groundbreaking ceremony for the new building. Photo courtesy of Jill Spero.

Prince of Peace Parish breaks ground on new building “If you build it, they will come,” is not only a well-known quote from the 1989 movie Field of Dreams, but also a fact of life at Prince of Peace Parish. In August 2000, the parish opened its school with just 45 students in grades K-2. It was the first new school in Jefferson County in 50 years. Each successive year, the school added another grade, and this year, enrollment at the school is at 450 students in grades pre-K through eighth; the parish’s religious education program has 1,000 students in Sunday school; and the youth group membership has reached 100.

Now, approaching the school’s 15th anniversary, Prince of Peace has

broken ground for a 16,000-squarefoot, two-story building to accommodate its growth. The brick structure will feature four standard classrooms plus customized classrooms, a media room, two smaller elective classrooms and a large youth room with an office for youth program directors. The large youth room will also have direct access to the courtyard for group activities. Each floor has restroom facilities and an elevator will make the building handicapped-accessible.

The project architect is CTSM Architects of Birmingham, the general contractor is Duncan & Thompson Construction, and Rast

Construction is doing the site clearing. Jim Atkinson, Prince of Peace’s facilities consultant and a founding church member, is overseeing the entire project.

“Our students’ success is a direct correlation between home and school,” Principal Connie Angstadt said. “The exceptional performance of all of our students is a reflection of our dedicated staff, our families that value Catholic education, and hard-working students. Space in the new facility will fuel the continued development of our collaborative middle school curriculum, creating critical thinkers for the future.”

-Submitted by Jill Spero

The students chose to construct a “Superman Logo” out of canned goods. Photo courtesy of Jason Gaston.

South Shades Crest Elementary embarked on a “Canstruction” project over the holidays. Students collected more than 1,500 canned goods for the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.

The project engaged the entire school. Kindergartners learned to sort healthy and non-healthy foods; first-third graders researched how food would be distributed to area food banks; fourth graders constructed a map of Alabama counties, which depicted population, poverty levels and the number of food banks per county.

During the week of the canned food drive, cans were counted, sorted by shape, color and size. Ideas were generated for the culminating activity of building a “canstruction” project. The students chose to construct a “Superman Logo” to go along with the school-wide theme of “SSC Super Heroes.” The students exhibited teamwork, perseverance and a positive attitude.

-Submitted by Jason Gaston

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B9

Simmons Middle School hosts chili cook-off

The Simmons Middle School faculty held a holiday celebration with an ugly Christmas sweater contest and chili cook-off in December. Photos courtesy of Simmons Middle School.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL After the children went home for their winter break, the faculty of Simmons Middle School held their own holiday celebration with an ugly Christmas sweater contest and chili cook-off.

On Friday, Dec. 19, around 16 faculty members brought batches of their own chili recipes for tasting.

The contest was judged by the experts in heat: Hoover’s fire department. Lieutenant Larry Florence and firefighters Mike Savage and Quinntel Walker tasted all the entries, which included some unusual recipes such as white chili and venison chili. Florence said he enjoyed both the food and the chance to wind

down before Christmas with the teachers.

“We go up there a lot of times on emergency calls, and it was good to go up there in a more relaxed manner,” Florence said.

The firefighters picked the top three cooks: assistant principal Kevin Erwin, English Language Learning (ELL) instructor Wendy McBride and sixth grade social studies teacher Danny Pair.

Erwin said his recipe stood out because he uses a bunch of hot peppers, but he preferred the taste he got of Pair’s chili. Pair had another hot chili, full of jalapenos, poblano and Anaheim peppers. Both Erwin and Pair enjoyed the time for good food and fellowship with faculty members.

Hoover City Schools names 2014-2015 Teachers of the Year Hoover City Schools recently announced Minette Wiggins of Trace Crossings Elementary School, and Tosha Caston-Smith of Spain Park High School as the 2014-15 Hoover City Schools Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year.

Wiggins, a first grade teacher, has served in education more than 32 years. Caston-Smith, an English teacher, has been in education more than 22 years.

HCS Teachers of the Year are put forward as State Board of Education District IV candidates for the Alabama Teacher of the Year Program,

Minette Wiggins.

administered by the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education. All school-level Teachers of the Year submitted packets outlining education history; professional biographies; community

Tosha Caston-Smith.

involvement; and philosophies of teaching.

The state-level selection committee will select the Alabama Teacher of the Year at an awards ceremony in May. -Submitted to Jason Gaston

B10 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Nominate your favorites for

BEST OF HOOVER 2015

Visit hooversun.com/nominate-best-of by Feb. 10.

Food and Drink Most Friendly Service Most Kid Friendly Restaurant Best Breakfast/Brunch Best Date Night Best Ladies’ Lunch Spot Best Casual Dining Best Asian Food Best Italian Food Best Mediterranean Food Best Mexican Food Best New Restaurant [must have opened after February 2014] Best Burger

Best Pizza Best Place for a Sweet Treat Best Cheese Dip Best Dessert [name of the dessert and restaurant]

Community Best Outdoor Space Best Community Event Best Neighborhood Best Church Choir Best Teacher Best Place for Family Outing

Health and Wellness

Best Place to Buy a Gift

Best Work Out Facility Best Dentist Best Orthodontist Best Pediatrician Best Family Practitioner Best Pharmacy Best Spa Best Chiropractor Best Orthopedist

Best Children’s Store

Businesses and Services

Best Golf Course

Best Women’s Clothing Store Best Store for Men Best Place to Buy Home Décor Best Customer Service Best Veterinarian Best Mechanic Shop Best Salon

Best New Business [must have opened after February 2014]

Best Grocery Store Best Real Estate Agent

Watch for the Best of Hoover ballot in the March print issue and online from Feb. 23 to March 10. Results will run in the April issue.

NOTHING SAYS LOVE LIKE A CLEAN HOME. Everyone can appreciate a thorough clean from The Maids.

Proudly keeping homes cleaner and healthier since 1987

205-871-9338 www.MAIDS.com

Referred for a reason.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B11

Sports Chargers win Hoover flag football championship

The Chargers team recently won the flag football league championship. Top row: coaches Adam Kelley, Jason Milligan, Robert Ward and Kevin Holden. Middle row: Will Holden, Blake Franklin and Nicholas Musso. Bottom row: A.J. Kelley, Drew Franklin, Emerson Milligan and Trey Ward. Photo courtesy of Michelle Holden.

Simmons coach named Metro Coach of the Year

Coach Keyon Williams and Coach Ed Ban with the Simmons seventh grade football team.

Photo courtesy of Rebecca B. Bueche.

Simmons seventh grade football coach Keyon Williams was chosen as this year’s Metro Coach of the Year. This is a great honor because the 12 coaches that vote for this award are peers and competitors of Coach Williams, which proves that his hard work, on and off the field, has been recognized by the toughest of judges. They see him for who he really is and respect him immensely.

This year, Coach Williams and his seventh grade team went 7-1.

“There were a lot of close games and this league is very competitive, but we beat both of our Hoover rivals, Berry and Bumpus, which

hasn’t happened since 2005. I am so proud of these guys,” he said.

Coach Williams feels that being involved in sports enables his players to learn to work as a team and what accountability really means, which are two valuable skills that will translate easily into the workplace later in life.

“The best part is having the opportunity to mold and develop young men and women to be better student athletes on and off the field,” he said. “It is a privilege to see them grow and develop. Knowing that you played a small role in their lives is an honor.”

-Submitted by Rebecca B. Bueche.

B12 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Hoover adds Florida power to 2015 football schedule

By DAVID KNOX Fresh off their 2014 Class 7A state championship, their third title in a row, the Hoover Buccaneers have added another out-of-state power to the football schedule for 2015.

Hoover High Athletics Director Andy Urban announced the Bucs will host the Manatee (Fla.) Hurricanes on Aug. 28 at 7 p.m. at the Hoover Met. The game will be in week two of the 2015 season after Hoover travels to Murfreesboro, Tenn., to play Oakland High School to open the schedule.

Manatee finished the 2014 season with a 12-2 record, losing in the semifinals to eventual state champion Apopka.

Urban said he is excited about the matchup between two of the top teams in the Southeast.

“This is a great opportunity for our football program, our players, and the entire community. We are ecstatic to be able to host Manatee here next season.”

Manatee High School has an enrollment of 2,400 students and competes in Class 8A, which is Florida’s largest classification, and has won five state championships in the program’s history.

Coach Josh Niblett commented on the success of the Manatee program, and what it means for Hoover to face

The Buccaneers’ Bradrick Shaw (27) runs the ball against Prattville in the Class 7A AHSAA state championship game in Auburn in December.

Photo by Kevin Brooks.

a team of its caliber.

“We pride ourselves at Hoover in playing the most prominent programs in the country such as former national champion Manatee, Fla. This is the kind of matchup that your school, your fans, and your program seek for improvement and identity.”

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity make this happen,” Manatee

High School AD Jason Montgomery said. “All great teams love great competition and this has all the hallmarks of a classic. The chance for an early season matchup of two of the South’s best programs is one both schools will look forward to.”

Hoover opened last season by hosting Miami Central of Florida and traveling to Colquitt County, Ga. The

Bucs lost both games, but ultimately there was no shame in that; Miami Central won its third straight Florida 6A championship and Colquitt County captured the Georgia 6A title.

Oakland High School, Hoover’s opening foe, was 12-2 in 2014, losing in the 6A state semifinals to Maryville, the eventual state champion. Oakland has won three state championships, the

most recent in 2008, and has been runner-up twice. The game will be part of a doubleheader at Middle Tennessee’s Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium and will be carried on ESPNU. Class 6A state champion Clay-Chalkville will take on Blackman in the other game.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B13

Buccaneers boys back in top 10

Bucs’ Austin Cherry picks up My68 scholar-athlete honors

By DAVID KNOX The Hoover High boys basketball team moved back into the ASWA poll at No. 8 in mid-January as the Bucs finally started to mesh with holdovers and newcomers.

The Bucs (16-6) rolled off five straight wins, starting with their final game in the Steel City Invitational, topping Shelby County 67-38.

Tough games lay ahead later in the month, with showdowns with No. 1 Mountain Brook and area rival Tuscaloosa County before a Border Wars game Jan. 31 at home against Christ Presbyterian of Tennessee. Border Wars is a three-game event that will also include Mountain Brook.

Among those five wins was a non-area win over Wenonah. Hoover was able to hold off a late Dragons’ rally to pull out a 69-61. Dylan Smith had 20 points for Hoover. Leonard Wood chipped in 16 points and six rebounds and Austin Cherry added 15 points and six rebounds.

Earlier, Hoover escaped a Thompson comeback to pull out a 63-55 area victory. After leading 20-9 in the first quarter, Thompson took a two-point lead into the fourth quarter.

Hoover was led Dylan Smith with 21 points and four assists. Austin Cherry had 16 points and eight boards and Leonard Wood added 12 and five.

Hoover picked off a big area road win, topping then-No. 7 Tuscaloosa County 58-51.

Dylan Smith scored 21 of his 32 points in the

Austin Cherry prepares to pass the ball. Photo by Barry Stephenson Time Capsule Images.

second half. Austin Cherry added 12 points while Maurice Brown had nine.

Following the Border War game, Hoover closes the regular season on Feb. 2 at Spain Park. Tip is at 7:30.

Area tournaments run Feb. 6-9 with regionals Feb. 16-21. The first seven-class state

tournament, christened the State Basketball Finals, will take place Feb. 24-28 at Legacy Arena at the BJCC. Fifty-six boys and girls teams will compete, since four teams from the two new classes are added to the field from the old Final 48 tournament.

Hoover High basketball player Austin Cherry was recently awarded the Scholar Athlete of the Week for My68-WABM TV. A plaque was to be presented to him at the school on Jan. 30. He also will have the opportunity to qualify to win a $3,000 scholarship to the university of his choice.

MedCenter HOOVER

5RGENT #ARE s &AMILY -EDICINE

B14 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Bucs wrestlers have a ball in mat win over Jags

By DAVID KNOX Hoover High’s wrestling program, now led by Jacob Gaydosh, has a rich tradition dating back to the Berry High days when Duke Chimento ruled. The Bucs won state championships in 1972, and had several runner-up teams before the Bucs picked up crowns in 2003, 2005, 2006 and 2010.

One of Chimento’s hobbies and passions was bowling. The wrestling match between and Hoover High and Spain Park High is known as “The Battle for the Ball.” The ball is a bowling ball, and it is the trophy that goes to the winner of the match. The “Ball” is a traveling trophy -- it stays with the school that wins the match.

Hoover claimed this season’s Battle for the Ball, dominating Spain Park 70-9. Here are the complete results of the championship at each weight class: }} 106: Patterson Huff (HOOV) over Zac Evans (SPH) (Fall 1:56) }} 113: Gage Camp (HOOV) over Emmanuel Thuo (SPH) (Fall 0:20) }} 120: Larry Wallace (HOOV) over Sam Shroyer (SPH) (Fall 5:32) }} 126: Clay Christian (SPH) over Jacob Brady (HOOV) (Fall 1:15) }} 132: Jarrett Anthony (HOOV) over (SPH) (For.) }} 138: Connor Metcalf (HOOV) over

Spain Park’s Kevin McClure (top) beats Hoover’s Bret Winters at the “Battle for the Ball” match.

(SPH) (For.) }} 145: Randy Jenkins (HOOV) over Jacob Parker (SPH) (Fall 1:05) }} 152: Jackson Hall (HOOV) over Leon Strong (SPH) (MD 12-3) }} 160: Lake Williams (HOOV) over Jack Ingram (SPH) (Fall 2:37) }} 170: Brandon Sirico (HOOV) over (SPH) (For.) }} 182: Drew Addison (HOOV) over Michael Avery (SPH) (Fall 1:28)

}} 195: Roman Cooper (HOOV) over (SPH) (For.) }} 220: Kevin McClure (SPH) over Bret Winters (HOOV) (Dec 9-2) }} 285: Gavin Jackson (HOOV) over Taylor Cox (SPH) (Fall 0:59) Earlier, the Hoover Bucs finished third at the Scott Rorher Invitational Tournament at Hoover. Senior Jackson Hall won the 154 pound championship, defeating Cameron Mire of

Catholic High School (La.) in a 6-4 decision along with receiving the most outstanding wrestler award. Sophomore Patterson Huff (108 pounds) and junior Bret Winters (220 pounds) placed second. Other placers were Gage Camp (fourth, 115), Corwin Russell (fourth, 128), Jarrett Anthony (third, 134), D’Angelo Dewitt (fifth, 170) and Gavin Jackson (fifth, 287).

Hoover also posted wins over Hewitt-Trussville 42-36, Tuscaloosa County 46-32 and Smiths Station

32-30. Against Hewitt, Hoover used a string of middleweight pins and a pair of late heavyweight victories en route to a victory. Winners for Hoover were Larry Wallace (120), Jarrett Anthony (132), Connor Metcalf (138), Randy Jenkins (145), Jackson Hall (152), Lake Williams (160), Bret Winters (220), and Kelsie Sudbury (285).

In the win over the Wildcats, champions were Patterson Huff (106), Larry Wallace (120), Jarrett Anthony (132), Connor Metcalf (138), Randy Jenkins (145), Jackson Hall (152), Lake Williams (160), Bret Winters (220).

Hoover’s win over Smiths Station was a tight match that was not decided until the final bout. Smiths Station got out to an early lead with pins in the heavier weights until Gavin Jackson sparked a comeback. Match points went back and forth during the evening. Sophomore Randy Jenkins of Hoover and Kaleb Fonetnot of Smiths Station provided the most exciting bout with an action-packed high-speed battle that got the crowd on its feet. Hoover winners included Patterson Huff (106), Gage Camp (113), Jarrett Anthony (132), Randy Jenkins (145), Jackson Hall (152) and Gavin Jackson (285).

The Bucs were to close the regular season with a match vs. Vestavia Hills on Jan. 29 before the Super Sectionals on Feb. 6. The State Tournament is Feb. 13 at Birmingham CrossPlex.

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B15

Spain Park’s Henze to continue soccer career at UAB

By DAVID KNOX Spain Park senior Erik Henze has chosen UAB as the next stop in his soccer career.

Henze will go to UAB as an invited walk-on for the Blazers’ 2015 season, meaning he will have a spot on the roster.

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Jaguars center-back, incidentally, is the son of UAB assistant athletics director David Henze.

Spain Park coach Matt Hall said Henze is an outstanding leader.

“He’s always the first one out there,” Hall said. “He’s one of my hardest workers in the offseason conditioning program. He’s one of those guys that spends a lot of time in the weightroom and running. He really leads by example.”

He’s also a skilled player who understands the game, his coach said.

“He reads the game extremely well,” Hall said. “He’s very strong on the tackle, and because he’s 6-2, he’s really good in the air. He’s good with the ball, he has a lot of really good strengths and qualities in that area.”

Henze agrees with that assessment.

“I think my strengths are my ability to read the game. A lot of

my game is making interceptions,” Henze said. “And I’m really good in the air. I wanted to go to UAB because I grew up going to their camps. I like coach (Mike) Getman.

I just think the whole coaching staffing is just amazing.”

Henze said, even though he is heading into his senior year and offers could come his way, he’s sticking with his commitment to go with the Blazers, even if they should be forced to leave Conference USA. “I’m going straight to UAB. No matter what. (C-USA) is a very good soccer conference. But even if they do, they probably would move to an easier conference for us to get to the NCAAs. But I love UAB with all my heart.”

The Blazers were 11-7-2 last season and earned an at-large bid into the NCAA Tournament after falling in the C-USA tourney championship game to South Carolina.

The Blazers lost a 1-1 shootout to Furman in the opening round of the NCAA tourney.

Spain Park senior Erik Henze will continue his soccer career at UAB as a walk-on for the 2015 season. Photo courtesy of Diana Henze.

WELLNESS CENTER

B16 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Hoover

Real Estate Listings MLS #

Zip

Address

Status

Price

619372

35226

428 Golf Drive

New

$419,000

619169

35216

2237 Chapel Hill Road

New

$102,800

618968

35216

2160 Kelly Lane

New

$130,000

619433

35226

5414 Cottage Lane, Unit 8

New

$149,900

618862

35242

5257 Cottage Circle

New

$159,900

619223

35226

337 Park Ave.

New

$159,900

618884

35216

2858 Georgetown Drive

New

$169,900

619252

35226

3144 Old Columbiana Road

New

$199,900

619245

35244

1774 Russet Woods Lane

New

$219,000

619401

35226

2207 Oak Ridge Circle

New

$219,900

619413

35244

5938 Waterside Drive

New

$224,900

619052

35226

1370 Haddon Place

New

$550,000

619085

35226

2329 Regent Lane

New

$235,000

619045

35226

220 Westcliff Circle

New

$239,900

618994

35244

1433 Canyon Lane

New

$264,500

619134

35244

5850 Water Point Lane

New

$269,900

619339

35226

190 Redwood Lane

New

$289,900

619175

35244

1408 Brocks Trace

New

$289,900

618995

35226

3088 Whispering Pines Circle

New

$299,000

618881

35226

2176 Ross Ave.

New

$344,500

618978

35226

1712 Valpar Drive

New

$345,000

Real estate listings sent to Hoover Sun by Vinnie Alonzo of RE/MAX Advantage South on Jan. 20.

Agents and agency vary by property.

428 Golf Drive

1370 Haddon Place

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B17

Calendar Hoover Events Feb. 1: Pen Women Art Exhibit Opening Reception and Awards. 2-4 p.m. Artists on the Bluff.

Hosted by the Birmingham branch of the National League of the American Pen Women, the exhibit will run through February 25. Call 637-5946.

Feb. 2: Hoover City Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Hoover City Hall. Visit hooveral.org.

Feb. 7: Riverchase Loves Artists Art Show. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Riverchase Country Club. Free and open to the public.

Visit riverchaselovesartists.com.

Feb. 11: Little Savannah Dinner.

6:30-8 p.m. Little Savannah Restaurant.

Proceeds will benefits projects of the Grace Klein Community. Visit gracekleincommunity.com.

Feb. 12: Propagator Wine Reception. 5-6 p.m. Aldridge Gardens.

Visit aldridgegardens.com.

Feb. 12: Meet the Artist Reception: Meredith Keith.

6-8 p.m. Aldridge Gardens. Visit aldridgegardens.com.

Feb. 13: Third Annual Hearts and Harmony Gala. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel. $100 ($36 is tax deductible). Call 903-4987.

Feb. 15: Come, Sing and Be Joyful. 4 p.m. Bluff Park United Methodist Church. Choral concert presented by the Over the Mountain Festival of Sacred Music Chorus. Visit otmfestivals.org/festival/festival15.htm.

Feb. 16: Hoover City Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Hoover City Hall. Visit hooveral.org.

Feb. 20-21: Bargains on the Bluff. Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Bluff Park United Methodist

Church. Visit bargainsonthebluff.com.

Jones. 11 a.m. Spain Park High School.

Feb. 20: Hoover High School Varsity Baseball vs. Hazel Green. 4 p.m. Hoover High School.

Feb. 22: Pruning for Form and How to Avoid “Crape Murder.”

1:30-4 p.m. Aldridge Gardens.

Members $12, Non-members $15. Visit aldridgegardens.com.

Feb. 20: Hoover High School Varsity Baseball vs. Sparkman.

6:30 p.m. Hoover High School.

Feb. 20: Spain Park High School Varsity Baseball vs.

Huntsville. 6:30 p.m. Spain Park High School.

Feb. 21: Spain Park High School Varsity Baseball vs. Bob

March 6-7: T-N-T Consignment Sale. Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Riverchase United Methodist Church. Visit riverchase-tnt.com.

March 7: Arbor Day Celebration. 9 a.m. Aldridge Gardens.

Hosted by the Hoover Beautification Board. Visit hooveral.org.

Hoover Public Library Adults Feb. 1: Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: Germany. 2:30 p.m.

Complimentary samples will be provided.

Feb. 2: Friends of the Hoover Library. 10 a.m. David Smitherman, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central and South Alabama, will discuss current scams and ways to protect yourself. Free.

Feb. 2: Outbreaks to Epidemics: Ebola, 1976-2015.

7 p.m. Dr. Pat Greenup discusses the social, cultural and health implications of this virus.

Feb. 3,10,17: Adult English Classes. 6:30 p.m. Classes free, no registration required.

Feb. 5: First Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Discussing Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline.

Feb. 5: Your Multipurpose Landscape: Grow It and Eat It, Too. 6:30 p.m. Presented by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

Feb. 5: Farris, York & Sledge.

6:30 p.m. Jazz trio from Muscle Shoals featuring electric guitar, upright bass and drums.

Feb. 8: Hiroya Tsukamoto, Guitarist. 2:30 p.m. Hiroya Tsukamoto is a composer, guitarist and singersongwriter from Kyoto, Japan.

Feb. 9: Helping Hands. 3 p.m.

Make newspaper rolls for a local humane society.

Feb. 10: Daytime Nonfiction Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Will discuss

The Life and times of the Thunderbolt Kid: A Memoir by Bill Bryson.

Feb. 14: Purl @ the Plaza. 3 p.m.

Bring yarn and knit, crochet or embroider.

Feb. 10: Spanish Conversation Club. 7 p.m. All Spanish fluency levels welcome to practice the language and learn about the culture with a native speaker.

Feb. 16: Neuroscience Café: Finding a Cure for Epilepsy. 6:30 p.m. Presented by the UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center. Free.

Feb. 12: Second Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Will discuss Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter.

Feb. 18: No Jacket Required Nonfiction Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Will discuss books about books.

Feb. 12: Glue Gun Gang: Heart Pins. 10:30 a.m. Make a felt heart pin for Valentine’s Day. Adults only. Free.

Registration required.

Feb. 25-26: Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors. 8 p.m. Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors will perform in concert. $25.

POWER TO

BUILD DREAMS

© 2015 Alabama Power Company

Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one. Meet Sharon Scott. She has a new home that’s affordable, comfortable and energy efficient. With help from Habitat for Humanity and Alabama Power, Sharon will have a comfortable place to call home for years to come. That’s power to help build dreams.

That’s Power to Alabama.

Read Sharon’s story at AlabamaPowerRealTalk.com.

POWI-3857 P2BuildDreams 10x7.5_Starnes.indd 1

1/21/15 4:17 PM

B18 • February 2015

Hoover Sun

Calendar Moonlight on the Mountain

Hoover Public Library (continued) Feb. 21: Write Club. 10:30 a.m.

Meet and mingle with fellow amateur poets and novelists.

Feb. 23: Monday at the Movies. 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The library will screen Glory Road.

Feb. 26: Nighttime Nonfiction Brook Group. 7 p.m. Will discuss Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy: Four Women Undercover in the Civil War by Karen Abbott.

Feb. 27: An Evening with Wally Lamb. 7 p.m. The Library Theatre. Novelist Wally Lamb visits the library. Book signing and reception will

take place following the presentation.

humane society.

Feb. 28: Authors Conference.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. The Library Theatre and Library Plaza. Karen Abbot, Amy Greene, James Scott, Jon Sealy, Thrity Umrigar, Meg Wolitzer and Chelsea Cain will visit.

Feb. 17: Pinterest Party. 6:30 p.m. Make crafts seen on Pinterest.

Registration required. Grades 7-12.

Teens Feb. 6: Library Skills 102.

10:30 a.m. Learn to navigate online resources. Geared for homeschoolers, grades 4-12.

Feb. 9: Helping Hands. 3 p.m.

Make newspaper rolls for a local

Feb. 10: Cupids, Candy and Hearts, Oh My! 6:30 p.m. Make valentine crafts and snack. All ages.

Kids

Feb. 14: Kidz Kitchen with the Queen of Hearts. 10:30 a.m. Make tarts for your sweethearts with the Queen of Hearts.

Feb. 6: Library Skills 102.

10:30 a.m. Learn to navigate online resources. Geared for homeschoolers, grades 4-12.

Feb. 20: Duct Tape Wars.

4:30 p.m. Games and crafts featuring the world’s most versatile adhesive.

Grades 4-6.

Feb. 9: This Just In! 6:30 p.m. A new-books book club for grades 4-6.

Read a book published in the last six months.

Feb. 24: Mystery Scavenger Hunt. 4:30 p.m. Get clues, find objects and guess the mystery. Grades 1-3.

585 Shades Crest Road moonlightonthemtn.com Feb. 2: Open Mic Night. $5.

Feb. 6: Malcolm Holcombe. $15.

Feb. 7: Sweetwater Road. $15.

Feb. 12: Grant Peeples and The Sarah Mac Band: A Black Heart Valentine’s Celebration. $12.50.

Feb. 15: Ladies’ Night Out and The Diptones. $15.

Feb. 16: Open Mic Night. $5.

Feb. 19: Rupert Wates and Annalise Emerick. $12.

Hoover Chamber of Commerce 1694 Montgomery Highway, Suite 108 hooverchamber.org Feb. 5: Economic Development Meeting. 8:309:30 a.m. Chamber Office.

Feb. 13: Hearts and Harmony Gala. 6:30 p.m. Hyatt Regency – The Wynfrey Hotel. $100. Call 985-4990.

Feb. 12: Coffee and Contacts. 7:30-9 a.m. Easter Seals of Birmingham, 240 Commerce Parkway. Call 942-6277.

Feb. 18: Ambassadors Meeting. 4:30-5 p.m. Chamber Office.

Take us with you.

Award-winning community journalism on your mobile phone.

HooverSun.com

Feb. 20: Wisewater and TBA. $12.

Feb. 21: Buddy Mondlock. $15.

Feb. 19: Chamber Luncheon.

11:15 a.m. Hoover Country Club.

Reserve spot by Feb. 16. $20 with reservations, $22 without reservations.

Call 988-5672.

Feb. 24: Minority Business Council Meeting. Noon. Chamber

Office. Brown bag luncheon meeting.

Feb. 26: Business After Hours. 5:30-7 p.m. Residence Inn. 2725 John Hawkins Parkway. Call 733-1655.

Feb. 26: Cherry Suede and TBA. $12. *All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise stated.

A brand new healthcare model specializing in short term rehabilitation conveniently located in Hoover.

Professional Chef • Available Private Suites • Putting green • Spa

Resort Amenities - Healthcare Expertise

Aspire Physical Recovery Center at Hoover, LLC 575 Southland Dr. • Hoover, Alabama 35226 For More Info Contact Anna Rush: 205-721-6200

www.AspireAtHoover.com

hooversun.com

February 2015 • B19

Calendar Area Events All month: Small Treasures: Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals and Their Contemporaries. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m. Birmingham Museum of Art. The exhibition will feature works of the greatest masters of the Dutch and Flemish Golden Age. Visit artsbma. org.

Feb. 5: Birmingham Art Crawl. 5-9 p.m. Birmingham Historic Loft District. A monthly happening showcasing Birmingham’s pool of creative talent. Visit birminghamartcrawl.com.

Feb. 6: Sybarite5. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Samford University. The string quartet will perform at Brock Recital Hall. $20. Call 726-2853.

Feb. 7: Heart 2 HeART. 6-9 p.m. BridgeStreet Gallery and Loft. aTeam’s Heart 2 HeART program supports children with pediatric cancer by pairing them professional artists. Visit ateamministries.org.

Feb. 7-8: Miranda Sings. 2 p.m. Comedy Club StarDome. YouTube sensation Miranda Sings will bring a night filled with comedy, songs, magic tricks, dramatic readings of hate mail and never-beforeseen videos. $28 general admission, $53 premier seating. Visit stardome.com.

Feb. 12: The Roots of Alabama Gospel, with Bobby Horton and the Birmingham Sunlights. 5:30-7 p.m. Vulcan Park and Museum. $10 non-members, $8 members. Visit visitvulcan. com.

Feb. 12-15: Birmingham Home and Garden Show. Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.6 p.m.. $11 at the door, $8 online for adults, $3 children 6-12, free for children 5 and under. Visit homeshowbirmingham.com.

Feb. 12-28: Completeness. ThursdaysSaturdays 8 p.m. Birmingham Festival Theatre, 1901

1/2 11th Ave. S. Visit bftonline.org.

Feb. 13: A Night Under the Big Top. 8 p.m. The Club. Event benefits the Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. $60 per person in advance, $110 per couple, in advance, $75 per person at the door. Visit glenwood.org.

Feb. 14: Woo at the Zoo. 6-8 p.m.

Birmingham Zoo. Animal greetings, wine and desserts provided. $50 zoo member, $75 zoo member couple, $65 non-member, $90 non-member couple. Visit birminghamzoo.com.

Feb. 15: Come, Sing and Be Joyful. 4 p.m. Bluff Park United Methodist Church, 733 Valley Street, Hoover. Choral concert presented by the Over the Mountain Festival of Sacred Music Chorus. Visit otmfestivals.org/festival/festival15.htm.

Band. 8 p.m.-midnight. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. $59.50, $79.50, $97. Visit ringostarr.com.

Feb. 19-21: The Last Five Years. 7:30 p.m. RMTC Cabaret Theatre. 301 19th Street North.

This modern musical chronicles the five-year life of a marriage. $40-$50. Visit redmountaintheatre.org.

Feb. 20-22: Cinderella. Friday and Saturday 7:30-9:30 p.m.,. Saturday and Sunday 2:30-4:30 p.m. Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. Presented by Alabama Ballet. $20-$55. Visit alabamaballet.org.

Feb. 20-22: Mercedes Marathon. Check website for times. Boutwell Municipal Auditorium.

The event will raise funds for local charities. Visit mercedesmarathon.com.

Feb. 15: Ringo Starr & His All Starr

Area Consignment Sales Feb. 6-7: Sweet Repeats. Friday 9 a.m.6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-noon. Mountain Brook Community Church. Visit mbccsweetrepeats.blogspot. com.

Feb. 20-21: Bargains on the Bluff. Friday

9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Bluff Park United Methodist Church. Visit bargainsonthebluff. com.

Feb. 13-14: Giggles and Grace. Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Asbury United

Methodist Church. Visit asburygigglesandgrace.com.

Feb 27-28: Lil’ Lambs. Friday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-noon. Trinity United Methodist Church. Visit trinitybirmingham.com.

March 6-7: T-N-T Consignment Sale.

Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Riverchase United Methodist Church. Visit riverchasetnt.com.