Hoover Sun March 2026

By EMILY REED

as he prepares to officially retire this summer after pastoring the church for more than 40 years.

By KELLI S. HEWETT

At 3 feet 8 inches tall, Jon Michael Ogletree of Hoover is accustomed to being noticed. As a certified public accountant, a CFO and the world’s smallest professional piano player, he has built a life where numbers and music intersect with a message of faith. Ogletree balances a high-level corporate finance career with an international reputation as a concert pianist. He has traveled to more than 30 countries — most of them for work as a musician and often as a cruise ship entertainer for the luxury cruise line Explora Journeys. “I’m not a little person who just happens to be good at the piano,” said Ogletree, 41. “I am a skilled pianist who just happens to be a little person. I don’t feel 3 foot 8 inches.”

Hunter Street Baptist Church Pastor Buddy Gray has been preaching

years. Photo by David Leong.

At 3’8”, Jon Michael Ogletree is known as the world’s smallest professional piano player. Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.

ABOUT US

Editor’s Note By Jon Anderson

Twenty years ago, when I was the Hoover editor for The Birmingham News, I wrote a column about the 10 most powerful people in Hoover.

As you might expect, the list was heavy with politicians and people in city government, but one of the 10 who came from the community at large was Hunter Street Baptist Church’s Buddy Gray.

“As senior pastor of the 7,500member Hunter Street Baptist Church for 20 years, Gray has tremendous sway over thousands of people. And his power source is the Ultimate Authority,” I wrote then.

Twenty years later, Gray now has 40 years at Hunter Street under his belt,

and he’s ready to retire as pastor. One of our contributing writers, Emily Reed, sat down with Gray as he prepares to exit the pulpit this summer. I hope you enjoy her cover story on Gray.

There are so many people who are thankful that Gray said yes to the call to serve the Lord and the congregation at Hunter Street. He has made quite a mark, and I wish him well as he moves into another phase of ministry.

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PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER

Spring is a season of momentum and renewal, and across Hoover we are seeing real progress — both in exciting economic development and in long-overdue investments that directly improve quality of life for our residents.

Nick’s Notes

By Nick Derzis

One of the most exciting announcements I shared during my recent state-of-thecity address was the addition of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant at The Village at Brock’s Gap II along Stadium Trace Parkway. This high-quality destination reflects Hoover’s continued growth and appeal. Developments like this create jobs, strengthen our tax base and enhance the amenities that make Hoover a great place to live, work and gather.

At the same time, my administration is working with urgency to address important parks and recreation needs that affect families across our city.

At the Hoover East Sports Complex, electrical issues have left field and concession lighting inoperable since last spring. That disruption has been frustrating for our youth athletes, families and volunteers. Fixing it has been a priority. I am optimistic that the

Derzis

CITY

lighting and electrical work will be completed by the end of March, allowing for a return to competitive play in time for the upcoming youth baseball and softball seasons.

We are also making meaningful progress at Howard Lake next to Hoover City Hall. After the former Lake House was demolished due to structural issues, the city worked diligently to identify funding and a clear path forward. I am pleased to share that we successfully reallocated $1.1 million in state grant funding, along with additional support from Jefferson County and the city of Hoover, to move this project ahead.

We expect to go to bid very soon on rebuilding the Lake House, which is a popular venue for gatherings, birthday parties, wedding showers and other community events. This project will not only replace and improve the building structure but will also upgrade the walking trail around the lake and address long-neglected drainage issues, creating lasting improvements for residents.

From economic development to revitalized public spaces, these efforts reflect our commitment to accountability, urgency and investing wisely in Hoover’s future.

Nick

CITY

New city administrator brings deliberate, experienced eye

By JON ANDERSON

Brian Muenger is coming into his new job as Hoover’s city administrator at a time of significant change.

There’s a new mayor in place, a new police chief, a new city engineer, three new city council members and a search for a new chief financial officer under way, and the new administration is pushing to revitalize a city that Mayor Nick Derzis said had gotten tired.

Muenger has the record of results and depth of experience that make him a good fit to manage change and the day-to-day operations of the city, Derzis said.

He comes to Hoover after having spent 10 years as the city manager for Pell City, where he oversaw more than 230 employees and a $40 million operating budget, guided the city through more than $35 million in capital improvements without issuing long-term debt and strengthened the city’s financial position.

Before that, Muenger served more than six years in Talladega, including almost five years as city manager and about a year and a half as assistant city manager.

Muenger’s background includes comprehensive planning, organizational leadership, commercial development, grant administration, and long-term capital and financial planning.

“Brian brings a level of experience, professionalism and steady leadership that will immediately strengthen our operations,” Derzis said. “He has a proven track record of solving complex challenges, managing growth responsibly and delivering results that matter to residents. Adding someone of Brian’s caliber is another major step in putting the right team in place to advance and implement the priorities of my administration. I’m excited to welcome him to Hoover, and I have full confidence in his ability to help guide our city forward.”

EARLY EXPERIENCE

Muenger originally is from Louisville, Georgia, a small town in Jefferson County, Georgia, near Augusta. He went to Georgia College and State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and political science and a master’s degree in public administration.

At first, he planned to get a job with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, but there were a lot of hiring freezes going on at the time in the federal government. One of his professors who was a retired city manager suggested he think about city administration and connected him with internships in local governments.

“I really did enjoy what they were doing,” Muenger said. “It’s very dynamic work. You really never have any two days, working with a city, that are the same. Monotony is not a problem. It’s also very meaningful work to get to really make a difference.”

As he approached graduation, he got a job as a community development planner with the Heart of Georgia Regional Commission, which covers a 17-county region in south Georgia. He helped about 70 municipalities with comprehensive plans, hazard mitigation planning, community development block grants and federal grants for fire departments.

He enjoyed the work but decided he wanted a job where he could focus on one city and put all the pieces together for that city instead of having quick-hit jobs for brief periods of time in a multitude of cities.

He was hired as an assistant city manager in Talladega in 2008 and moved to Alabama. It gave him an opportunity to work under a city manager who had been in that type of role for more than 25 years and learn from him, he said.

After almost two years, his mentor returned to Michigan, and Muenger was hired as city manager for Talladega. He did that for almost five years.

Talladega had some significant financial hardships at the time due to the recession, and tax revenues were very volatile, Muenger said.

“It was a really challenging experience

because we did have to really reign in the budget,” Muenger said. “We had to furlough some employees. We had to roll back some services.”

Eventually, he and elected city leaders were able to get the city on sound financial footing, get their pension plan properly funded and establish a capital plan, he said.

The city also was under a consent decree for its sewer system, and while he was there, the city was able to get the sewer and water systems up to standards regarding infiltration, leak eradication, sewer mapping and PCBs in the water system, he said.

He also helped the city establish a grant process to restore historic buildings and worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to clean up brownfield textile mill sites and make them suitable for use again.

PELL CITY WORK

In 2015, he was asked to apply for the city manager job in Pell City, and he served in that role for 10 years.

In Pell City, he helped city leaders navigate compliance issues with their water and sewer departments and address funding shortfalls. The city was having to subsidize utilities with several million dollars each year because rates were not high enough to cover costs, he said. He proposed a rate structure to increase rates gradually over time, he said.

The city also revisited its fees for home builders and was able to kickstart new home construction, he said. In eight years, 850 new single-family homes were built, he said.

Pell City also had not made any significant capital investments in quite some time, Muenger said. He worked with elected officials to resurrect some projects. They built a new municipal complex, library and splash pad and renovated the city’s primary civic center. They also began designating a certain percentage of sales tax revenues to go into a capital fund, completed $35 million worth of projects in 10.5 years and didn’t add any longterm debt, he said. In fact, the city reduced its long-term debt by 40% while he was there, he said.

Under his watch, Pell City nearly doubled its city revenues, thanks to a lot of retail recruitment and working with developers to incentivize redevelopment of properties. That included tearing down an abandoned, asbestos-filled hospital and making the property suitable for redevelopment as a 100,000-square-foot retail

center, he said. Additional growth followed.

“Once you demonstrate success — once you show people that your market is strong and that people are having a good track record in their operation there — most of the work is done,” Muenger said. “People want to go where they can have success. Sometimes taking the first step is difficult.”

Pell City also was able to add recreational amenities, add a medical transport unit, expand their police department, give more money to schools and repave the majority of roads.

“It was all done in a very deliberate way, incrementally and making sure we only started things we knew we could perpetuate,” he said.

His goal has always been to present elected officials with sound, data-driven recommendations, usually after a substantial period of study, he said.

COMING TO HOOVER

Muenger said he was happy working in Pell City, but he was excited about the opportunity to work in Hoover, especially after coming to interview with the mayor.

“The vision he charted — and that I heard from the City Council, as well — was one that told me that this was an administration that was going to vote to really have very rigorous standards for performance and for improving the quality of life for the citizens of Hoover in all respects,” Muenger said.

Hoover has historically provided excellent services in many areas, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t places that need work, he said.

“” A city cannot rest on its laurels. Things require reinvestment — reimagination — and that does include city assets and commercial assets that exist throughout the city.

BRIAN MUENGER

“A city cannot rest on its laurels,” Muenger said. “Things require reinvestment — reimagination — and that does include city assets and commercial assets that exist throughout the city.”

One of Derzis’ top priorities is to reinvigorate and redevelop the Riverchase Galleria and Patton Creek shopping centers, and that project has the potential to be a national model for reimagining a property, Muenger said.

“We have the economy here to do that. We have properties with amazing geographic locations, and the traffic counts that you have in that area of potential patrons — it is a canvas that will allow for all manner of innovation,” Muenger said.

The owners there also recognize the need to find the best way to utilize that area, he said.

Muenger said he has enjoyed getting to know so many city employees and looks forward to more of that. The city has a lot of very well-qualified employees and high-performing departments, and he looks forward to working with them to make things even better, he said.

“The most attractive thing by far for me about working for the city of Hoover is that this administration has set out very clearly a desire to be the absolute best that we can be,” Muenger said. “When you’re already delivering an excellent level of service, it’s fine to recognize that and also say we want to continue to do the most that we can. That should be the default for all public servants — to provide the best service that we can for the citizens.”

Above: Hoover City Administrator Brian Muenger, at right, meets with Chief Operating Officer Blake Miller and Strategic Anlayst Mindy Wyatt in his office at Hoover City Hall on Feb. 17. A myriad of ongoing projects is displayed on the bulletin board on the wall. Photo by Jon Anderson. Below: Hoover City Administrator Brian Muenger. Photo courtesy of city of Hoover.

Business Happenings

NOW OPEN

Cali Customz, an automotive customization and protection shop, opened in February at 3890 Douglas Way, Unit 1101, in a 1,300-square-foot space in the new Microflex flexible workspace area off Old Columbiana Road behind Vulcan Tire & Automotive. The business offers window tinting, vinyl wraps, paint protection film, ceramic coatings and paint correction services. Cali Customz LLC on Facebook, 205-983-3870

Urban Cookhouse opened its fifth Birmingham area location at Stadium Trace Village on Jan. 19. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Urban Cookhouse offers entrees that include grilled chicken, steak and rice, shrimp kabobs, veggie quesadillas, chipotle-braised pork, turkey and pineapple ham, as well as a wide variety of sandwiches, salads and wraps. Sides include hot cheddar pasta, roasted vegetables, rice pilafs, broccoli salad, garden salad and fresh fruit. The restaurant chain was started by David and Andrea Snyder in Homewood in 2010 and since has expanded with three more locations in downtown Birmingham, in Crestline and at The Summit. urbancookhouse.com, 205-593-4717

Baker’s Famous Pizza reopened under new ownership in October at 757 Shades Mountain Plaza in Bluff Park and is planning a grand opening celebration in March. bpbakerpizza.com, 205-822-4848

for e-commerce businesses, showrooms and sports training. They can also be used to store car collections or recreational vehicles or as other hobby spaces. The spaces have high ceilings, grade-level roll-up doors, restrooms and parking. They are fully air conditioned and can be customized with additional improvements, such as small enclosed offices and mezzanine spaces. This is Microflex’s fourth location in Alabama, with others open in Auburn/Opelika, Irondale and Huntsville. microflexspace.com, 205-443-2348

COMING SOON

Raising Cane’s plans to open its first location in the Birmingham-area on March 10 at 5301 U.S. 280. The Louisiana-based restaurant chain, known for its fried chicken fingers, is located on the former site of Lloyd’s Restaurant along the U.S. 280 corridor. The opening marks the brand’s debut in the Birmingham market. Other Alabama locations include Tuscaloosa and Mobile. raisingcanes.com

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selection of fresh salads, creamy gelato and desserts. littlelunapizza.com

RELOCATIONS

Sparrow Health & Performance, a medical clinic formerly at 2807 Greystone Commercial Blvd., Suite 32, has relocated to a larger 7,000-square-foot location at 611 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 214, in The Village at Lee Branch off U.S. 280 and held an open house on Feb. 9. The clinic combines traditional medical expertise with functional and regenerative therapies aimed at addressing the root causes of illness and promoting long-term wellness. The new clinic offers Sparrow’s full suite of services, including natural-first primary care, functional lab testing, advanced gut microbiome analysis and individualized treatment plans. In addition, the facility features hyperbaric oxygen therapy, hydrogen treatments, infrared sauna, halotherapy and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. sparrowclinic.com, 205-783-1020

Bluff Park Vintage has relocated its store in Shades Mountain Plaza from an 800-square-foot space at 736C Shades Mountain Plaza to a larger space across the parking lot at 740 Shades Mountain Plaza. Owner Vinny Chiaramonte offers vintage merchandise such as furniture, clothing, comics, vinyl, books, magazines and decorations. He also does restoration and refinishing work.

bluffparkvintage.com, 205-419-8763

PERSONNEL

Abbey Crocker has reopened her Party Art Studio in an 800-square-foot space at 736C Shades Mountain Plaza in Bluff Park in the former location of the Bluff Park Vintage store. Crocker does arts and crafts instruction for private and group classes, birthday parties, corporate parties and retreats, as well as face painting and summer camps. She also does custom art and decor for customers. She specializes in door hangers but also does ceramics, canvas painting and other mixed media art. She started her business about 17 years ago in her home and has had a storefront since 2015, including two locations in Helena and two in Pelham. She closed her studio at 3183 Lee St. in Pelham in July and began operating solely out of a truck until opening the new studio in Shades Mountain Plaza next to Art Zone in January. Instruction is by appointment only except for open paint times from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. partyartstudio.net, 205-253-2984

MicroFlex, a provider of flexible workspace solutions, in February opened its newest location at 3890 Douglas Way off Old Columbiana Road behind Vulcan Tire & Automotive. The new facility offers 30 flexible workspaces totaling 37,500 square feet and ranging in size from 1,250 to 1,550 square feet each. Multiple units can be combined to accommodate larger users. The facility is designed to meet an unmet demand for smaller, multifunctional office-warehouse spaces with shorter, more flexible lease terms than usually available, cofounder Andy Sink said. Microflex spaces can be used for everything from offices for creatives to contractor spaces, light assembly and warehouse spaces, fulfillment hubs

Stretch Zone, a national wellness franchise focused on practitioner-assisted stretching and mobility, is planning to open its third Birmingham-area location at 701 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 107-B, along U.S. 280 near Greystone. The new studio will be located in The Village at Lee Branch and will mark the company’s third Birmingham-area location and 11th overall in Alabama. stretchzone.com

Baskin-Robbins, the national ice cream brand known for its rotating lineup of 31 flavors, is planning to open a new location at 940 Inverness Corners at the intersection of U.S. 280 and Valleydale Road. Founded in 1945, Baskin-Robbins offers ice cream, sundaes, drinks and custom cakes through locally owned and operated shops across the country. The new store will be located between Mellow Mushroom and Kyuramen Tbaar in the Inverness Corners shopping center, which is also home to Kohl’s and Sephora. baskinrobbins.com/en

7 Brew Coffee, the Arkansas-based drive-thru coffee chain known for its customizable drink options, is under construction at 7015 Meadowlark Drive on U.S. 280. The new location is situated behind Raising Cane’s near the Walmart Supercenter. Founded in 2017, 7 Brew offers more than 20,000 drink combinations, including popular options such as the “Blondie,” “Smooth 7,” white chocolate mocha and sugar-free selections, as well as energy drinks and teas. 7brew.com

Little Luna Pizza plans to open soon as a carryout and delivery pizzeria serving New York-inspired pizzas. The dough is cold fermented and topped with California-grown tomatoes, aged mozzarella, and fresh meats and vegetables. Each pizza is baked in a high-temperature stone oven for a thin, crisp and airy finish. The pizzeria — located at 2142 Tyler Road in the Bluff Park Village shopping center — also offers a curated

Greystone Golf and Country Club recently announced the promotions of Jeordon Dudley to director of fitness and Becky Heisner to assistant director of fitness. Dudley has been employed with Greystone Golf and Country Club since 2018 and is a performance enhancement specialist and fitness nutrition specialist. Heisner joined the team in 2023 and brings expertise in personal training, group fitness, nutrition coaching, total body resistance exercise and more. greystonecc.com, 205-980-5200

AmFirst Credit Union recently announced three leadership promotions to support continued growth and innovation. In Hoover, AmFirst has branches at 3312 Old Columbiana Road and 2 Inverness Center Parkway. Paul Hoffman has been named vice president of strategic initiatives, John Vaughn has been promoted to vice president of information technology and David O’Dell has been promoted to vice president of business intelligence. Hoffman joined AmFirst in 2016 and most recently served as vice president of audit services. Vaughn has worked in information technology at AmFirst for more than 13 years and most recently served as director of IT services. O’Dell began his career with AmFirst in 2008 and most recently served as director of business intelligence. AmFirst is a federally chartered community credit union serving more than 200,000 members across 21 locations in 13 Alabama counties. amfirst.org

Ronnisha Croom and Alisa Jones have joined as Realtors in the RealtySouth Over the Mountain office at 2409 Acton Road, Suite 137, and Brittny Tadeo has joined RealtySouth’s office at 109 Inverness Plaza. realtysouth.com, Croom: 205-229-2114; Jones: 205-531-4251; Tadeo: 205-643-8673

Housing market looks cautiously optimistic going into spring

By LAUREN H. DOWDLE

Although mortgage rates have remained higher than they were five years ago, the Hoover real estate market is beginning to show renewed momentum.

Part of the reason is that most buyers and sellers have adjusted to the current rate climate, said Diana Will, a mortgage lender at MortgageRight with more than 20 years of experience. While January and February are typically slower months, Will said that hasn’t been the case this year.

“Homes that are priced right are moving quickly, and activity has picked up faster than expected,” Will said. “Be ready to act quickly and focus on value, not just price. We are gearing up to have a great year in the industry.”

Cathy O’Berry, a Realtor with more than 30 years of experience in the market, said this kind of adjustment period is common.

“I’ve lived through every kind of market — good, bad and uncertain,” O’Berry said. “What I’ve learned is that consistency and preparation matter more than conditions. When buyers and sellers adjust to reality and focus on value, transactions still move forward.”

That optimism extends beyond Hoover. Alabama saw a 4% increase in home sales in 2025, with the median sales price rising 10% to about $234,000, according to the Annual Alabama Economic and Real Estate Report released by the Alabama Association of Realtors.

Many in the housing market feel cautiously optimistic heading into spring, said Rachel Swain Saggus, a Realtor at LoKation Real Estate.

“Buyer interest is returning, but affordability and limited supply continue to shape decisions,”

Saggus said. “Prices are steadier than in recent years, with realistic sellers seeing the strongest demand.”

There has also been a noticeable uptick in new listings and early buyer inquiries, particularly from move-up buyers and relocating families, Saggus said.

“Showings are picking up on well-priced homes, while buyers remain selective and value driven,” she said. “Overall, modestly improved affordability compared with last year has gently boosted buyer inquiries and

John Ambrose has a ‘passion’ for building great kitchens and baths

John Ambrose is a Birmingham cabinet expert with years of experience in top-quality remodels and new construction. In this Q&A, John discusses what sets Ambrose Kitchen & Bath apart.

Why do you focus on kitchens and baths? Having worked on ground-up construction and full home remodels, I realized that kitchens and bathrooms are my passion. These are the most used and most challenging design features of the home—and as the youngest of four brothers, I like nothing more than to win a challenge! Getting the lighting, plumbing, tile, countertops, cabinets, hardware, appliances and paint to work together is like conducting a symphony. Every element has to be in harmony to achieve our clients’ vision.

Do you have a showroom to visit? Absolutely. In our showroom clients can get a hands-on look at working kitchens showcasing two of our top cabinet brands, Kith Kitchens and Mouser Custom Cabinetry. We also have lots of other samples to show. We see clients by appointment only because we believe that each client deserves our undivided attention.

What sets Ambrose Kitchen & Bath apart? We are committed to listening and collaborating with our clients to build spaces that work for them. Most customers come to us to solve problems in their existing space. We listen and create designs that ensure their new kitchen or bath will work for the way they live. We’re also a tight team of highly skilled professionals who have a passion for design and an eye toward the tiniest detail. We think through every aspect of our clients’ space and plan each component in advance.

Can you accommodate my busy schedule? Of course! Whether you’re a busy working parent, constantly on the road or retired and living your best life, we can work with you. We understand that not everyone can get to the design table during retail hours. In fact, we schedule most of our appointments after 4 p.m. on weekdays or on weekends.

What if I’ve never remodeled before and I’m feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. We’ll walk you through your entire project hand-in-hand. Before we ever started focusing solely on kitchens and baths, we did full remodels and built homes from the ground up. We understand every stage of the remodeling process and how to staff it, so we can guide you and answer all your questions. We’ll help make sure your project goes smoothly from rough-in to fluff-out.

I have no idea what a kitchen costs these days. What if my budget and dreams don’t align? We get it. We can break down costs in an easy-to-understand way and work with you to design the ideal kitchen or bath for your budget. We’ve hand-picked beautiful cabinet lines at every price point. Come take a look!

For more information, call us at 205-510-6961 or visit AmbroseKitchenandBath.com.

early spring activity.”

Homes that recently went on the market and are reasonably priced are receiving multiple offers, said Margi Ingram, owner of Ingram and Associates.

“It’s still one of the greatest places to live with great schools, parks, restaurants and city services,” Ingram said.

O’Berry said preparation often makes the difference in competitive situations.

“Whether it’s a seller getting ready to list or a buyer writing an offer, preparation

is how you protect your clients,” she said. “When you’re prepared, you’re calm — and when you’re calm, your clients feel confident making decisions.”

“It’s still one of the greatest places to live with great schools, parks, restaurants and city services,” Ingram said.

Heading into spring, the Hoover housing market remains steady and competitive, especially for well-priced homes in established neighborhoods, said Sarah Sullivan Johnson, an associate broker and Realtor with ARC Realty Hoover.

There is also more showing activity on new listings and stronger turnout at open houses in Hoover and surrounding neighborhoods. Homes that are well priced are going under contract more quickly than they were earlier in the winter, Johnson said.

“We’re also noticing more serious buyer inquiries, which is usually an early sign of a busier spring season,” Johnson added.

Johnson advised buyers to be prepared and stay focused on their priorities.

“In the Hoover area, well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods can still move quickly, so having financing lined up and being clear on priorities is key,” she said. “Buyers who are flexible on timing or minor cosmetic updates often have more options and better outcomes.”

For homeowners looking to sell, Johnson encourages a focus on pricing and presentation, noting that seasonal patterns still play a role.

“Spring and early summer are typically strong here, and I think buyers and sellers will continue to move forward as they adjust to current conditions,” Johnson said. “The Hoover market is driven more by life changes than speculation, which keeps it resilient.”

Stock photo.

How to stage your home for the biggest impact on the market

By LAUREN H. DOWDLE

Before buyers make an offer on a home, they want to be able to envision themselves living there. One of the best ways sellers can help make that happen is by preparing their homes before putting them on the market.

A good starting point is a pre-listing walkthrough with an agent, said Katie Crommelin, a Realtor at Ray & Poynor.

“This is your chance to address any repairs needed, clean out closets and simplify decor,” Crommelin said. “The more you do ahead, the less stress you’ll feel when it’s time for the sign to go in the yard. Your real estate agent is your best resource in this department, so make sure you are utilizing their expertise.”

Realtor Cathy O’Berry said much of the work that determines a home’s success happens before it is ever listed.

“I never want my clients to feel surprised,” O’Berry said. “The more prepared you are — from small repairs to overall presentation — the more confident you feel when buyers walk through the door.”

There are also several staging companies in the area that can help homeowners determine what furniture to remove, rearrange or replace to achieve the best results.

“It’s important to view your home through the eyes of a buyer who isn’t attached to your home,” Crommelin said. “You want the interior to be uncluttered, clean and easy to walk through. There is a fine line between uncluttered and sterile, and your Realtor can help achieve the right look.”

Focusing on presentation and pricing will pay off for homeowners, said Sarah Sullivan

Johnson, an associate broker and Realtor with ARC Realty Hoover.

“In the Hoover market, buyers are more selective than they were a few years ago, so homes that are priced realistically, clean and well maintained tend to attract the most interest,” Johnson said. “Making a strong first impression, both online and in person, can make a big difference in how quickly and successfully a home sells.”

O’Berry said pricing conversations are one of the most important parts of preparing a home for the market.

“Being honest, even when it costs you in the short term, builds long-term trust,” she said.

“Your reputation walks into the room before you do. Pricing realistically from the beginning positions a seller for stronger results.”

However, sellers do not have to handle the process alone and should rely on a trusted local professional for guidance.

“Working with a local agent who knows the area and being flexible with timing and negotiations can help attract serious buyers quickly while maximizing sale value,” said Rachel Swain Saggus, a Realtor at LoKation Real Estate.

Ensuring homes are move-in ready before listing should be a priority, said Ellen Hottel, a Realtor at eXp Realty.

“Buyers would prefer to pay premium prices for a move-in ready home rather than a home that needs work,” Hottel said.

While the inside of a home is critical, sellers should not overlook the exterior and the importance of curb appeal.

“Be sure your home has great curb appeal by maintaining the lawn, freshly painting the front door and pressure washing,” Hottel said.

• 2,500+ families helped

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Many clients have bought and sold with her multiple times over the years — and today, she’s helping their children buy their first homes.

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Proven results. Personal guidance. Experience that matters. Call me today.

Stock photos.

GET TO KNOW

Briana Morton of Digital Promise

By APRIL COFFEY

Q: Please tell our readers about yourself.

A: I’ve proudly called Hoover home for the past 10 years. My husband [Matthew] and I moved here when we realized we had outgrown our first home in a neighboring city, and choosing Hoover was an easy decision. We came from a community known for strong schools, but Hoover City Schools have truly exceeded our expectations. We’ve been continually impressed by the opportunities available to our children and the way the district supports students at every stage. Education has been the heart of my career for the last 20 years. I began as a classroom teacher, spent time as a school administrator and later moved into leadership roles within educational nonprofits. Today, I serve as the Alabama director for Digital Promise, a global nonprofit focused on expanding access to high-quality learning experiences. In this role, I work to scale cybersecurity pathways that prepare students across Alabama for future careers.

Q: Tell us about your family.

ACCOLADES

Hoover show choirs capture honors in Albertville, Oak Mountain

By APRIL COFFEY

Show choirs in Hoover City Schools began their 2026 competition season with success.

At the Albertville Diamond Classic at Albertville High School, Hoover High’s Paradigm show choir won first place in the middle mixed division on Jan. 31, plus best vocals and best overall effect.

A: My husband and I have three children — one in high school, one in middle school and one in elementary school, which means our house is a daily snapshot of every stage of learning.

Q: What do you enjoy most about living in Hoover?

A: Hoover is simply beautiful, and that’s something we appreciate every single day. My husband and I chose Hoover as our home because of its diversity and the strong educational opportunities for our children.

Q: Why did you decide to become an educator?

A: I actually came to education from the corporate world, where I spent three years before realizing I wanted something more meaningful. I was looking for work that felt rewarding, allowed for creativity and connected me to the community in a real way.

The show choirs from Simmons and Berry middle schools competed in the Albertville Diamond Classic on Jan. 30, and Simmons’ Synergy show choir won best show design.

Then on Feb. 7, Spain Park High School’s Rhapsody in Blue show choir competed in the King of the Mountain competition at Oak Mountain High School and won second runner-up. Spain Park’s Sammy Carmago was named best performer.

chow choir placed fifth, and eighth grader Scarlett Hansen was named best female soloist.

In other Hoover school news:

► Spain Park High School hosted the Girls Engaged in Math and Science Expo on Feb. 7, drawing more than 600 girls from throughout the district. The girls were able to explore science, technology, engineering and math through hands-on projects, and they showcased their ideas and their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

► Spain Park High School’s flag football team was featured on NBC Sports in a segment with Peter King on football in America on Feb. 8.

– See more from Morton at hooversun.com.

The previous day, on Feb. 6, Bumpus Middle School’s Cadence show choir received first place in the King of the Mountain competition despite battling a wave of sickness.

► Hoover High School’s Anna Gill placed third in 11th- and 12th-grade digital photography at the State Superintendent’s Visual Arts Show in Montgomery with her piece entitled “Head Above Water.”

Cadence also won best overall effect, best choreography and best vocals. Meanwhile, Simmons’ Synergy

The Paradigm show choir from Hoover High School performs at the Albertville Diamond Classic at Albertville High School on Jan. 31.

Photo courtesy of Erika Ring Cagle.

Briana Morton and her family. Photo courtesy of Briana Morton.

SCHOOLHOUSE

Shades Mountain Elementary celebrates Blue Ribbon honor

By JON ANDERSON

The teachers and staff at Shades Mountain Elementary School were elated when they learned the school had met the criteria to be named a National Blue Ribbon School last year, but that elation quickly was dampened when they learned in August that the Trump administration had decided to cancel the program.

There would be no official national designation or ceremony this year.

Hoover school officials decided not to let that stop the school district from celebrating Shades Mountain’s accomplishment. On Feb. 10, the Hoover Board of Education moved its monthly meeting to Shades Mountain to conduct their own Blue Ribbon School celebration in the school’s cafeteria, and the Alabama State Board of Education followed with further acknowledgement on Feb. 12.

The U.S. Department of Education started the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program in 1982 to honor high-performing public and private schools for overall academic excellence or significant progress in closing achievement gaps.

Katie Collins, Alabama’s 2025-26 Teacher of the Year from Bluff Park Elementary School and one of five finalists for National Teacher of the Year, was at the Shades Mountain celebration. She said she was pumped when she learned a school from Hoover had won the National Blue Ribbon Schools award and just as disappointed when she learned the program was being canceled and there would be no national ceremony.

“Honors, titles and recognitions — they’re exciting; they’re cool, but you know what? The work behind them is what really matters,” Collins said. “Shades Mountain — your work matters. Your work is seen.”

Hoover City Schools Superintendent Kevin

“Disappointments happen, but … they don’t define us,” Collins said. “At Shades Mountain, whether this recognition continues on a national stage or not, your impact is already written where it matters most: in the lives of every single student that you serve.

Maddox said when he first arrived as superintendent in 2023 and began looking at each school’s achievement data, he noticed that Shades Mountain was “just killing it.”

This past fall, Shades Mountain and Greystone elementary schools for the second year in a row were named as i-Ready Super Stretch Schools for helping students achieve extraordinary academic growth in reading and math. They were among only five schools in Alabama and 170 or so schools nationwide to earn the designation from Curriculum Associates, the company that makes the i-Ready diagnostic tests that students take at the beginning of the school year, midway through the year and at the end of the school year.

Maddox said he wanted to know how school officials could bottle up whatever is being done

STEP INTO SPRING WITH

The faculty and staff of Shades Mountain Elementary School on Feb. 10. Photos by Jon Anderson.

at Shades Mountain and take it other places.

“What you guys are achieving is absolutely amazing,” Maddox said. “It is a special place. It is a hidden gem, but it’s not a secret anymore. When you’re named a National Blue Ribbon School, you can’t hide it anymore.”

Maddox said the school system will be sending a small group from Shades Mountain to Washington, D.C., at some point for a similar type of experience they would have had if the U.S. Department of Education had not canceled its event.

Principal Kevin Erwin said whether or not the school is recognized in a ceremony at the national level, Shades Mountain is a great school because the faculty and staff there make it a great school.

Amanda Whisenhunt, a kindergarten teacher who has been at Shades Mountain since 2009, said it’s truly her happy place.

“I come to school each day excited and ready to begin anew,” she said. “Once those doors close, the outside world fades away, and my focus becomes my students and the meaningful collaboration I share with my teammates. Shades Mountain is truly a special place — a place where everyone is always welcome and deeply loved. The faculty and staff work hard each and every day — not because we have to but because we genuinely enjoy what we do and believe in what we’re building together.”

The growth in student achievement reflects the heart and soul that is poured into them, Whisenhunt said. “The growth we see comes from consistent support, encouragement and love.”

Al Dixon, a fifth grade teacher who is in his eighth year at Shades Mountain, said that each faculty and staff member’s input is valued at Shades Mountain and that teachers support one another to help them all collectively improve.

The school is also led by two servant leaders — Erwin and Assistant Principal Leah Colley — who are willing to pitch in and help with any job or task in the school, Dixon said.

“They’re often the first to arrive and the last to leave, and they don’t lead by their position but by example,” Dixon said. “That kind of leadership builds trust because it shows us that we are all in this together. They strike a delicate balance between freedom and accountability, trust and oversight.”

The school is successful also because of the community support, such as that offered by members of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, Dixon said. Church members consistently show up to support teachers and staff with

Ethan Vice, a district director for U.S. Rep. Gary

a

Kevin Erwin.

“We are small, but we are mighty. We are small, but you will see us. We are small, but by God, we move mountains.

AL DIXON

”meals and snacks and, more importantly, to support students who are in need of assistance, he said.

“That type of care speaks volumes about what it means to truly serve a community,” Dixon said. “Shades Mountain works because we believe that every child matters — not just academically but socially, emotionally and mentally.”

The faculty at Shades Mountain recognize one another’s strengths, respect one another’s expertise and know when to call for assistance, he said. They also work to remove barriers and give students access to opportunities they might not otherwise have, he said.

“We’re often described as the smallest elementary school in the district, but this recognition says that we are more than our size,” Dixon said. “We are more than our numbers. We are more than a small school tucked away off Alford Avenue. We are small, but we are mighty. We are small, but you will see us. We are small, but by God, we move mountains.”

Above:

Palmer, presents

flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol to Shades Mountain Elementary School in celebration of the school receiving National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence status on Feb. 10.

Left: Shades Mountain Elementary School in Hoover.

Below: Principal

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Explore local camps where kids can make friends, try new activities and build new skills all summer long

Slimy salamanders, slugs, bugs and rolypolies are all found as campers explore their world through hands-on field biology.

It’s the kind of learning that kids thrive in — hands-on, in motion, and at a child’s pace.

Gross Out Day Camp, a program of Fresh Air Family, is an awardwinning science camp.

As we say — “It’s science, but please don’t tell the kids.”

Campers explore in a safe environment as science is delivered through the icky, sticky elements of nature.

We’ll be in the woods, in the creek, performing science experiments and having fun. Camps are small — only 20 per camp — for the perfect class size. No screens allowed! Just the biggest playground (and classroom): the Great Outdoors.

Gross Out Day Camp serves campers entering first through fourth grade and counselors-in-training entering fifth through seventh grade.

Our goal is to teach critical thinking, and science provides a structure for it. Camps run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with an 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. extended day option available. Financial aid is available upon request.

WHERE: Cahaba River, Oak Mountain State Park, and more! See website for full list of locations.

WHEN: May 26–July 31, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

AGES: Rising first through fourth graders CALL: 205-504-6642

WEB: www.GrossOutCamp.org

One camp, endless ways to play: Hoover Met Complex Summer Sports Camp

The Hoover Met Complex is now signing up participants for its 2026 Summer Sports Camp after a record-breaking, sold-out 2025 season.

For parents looking to offer their children a mix of high-energy activity and skill development, this program is ideal.

The 2026 season runs for seven weeks from June 1 through July 17 and is open to rising 1st graders through rising 7th graders.

The Hoover Met Complex Summer Sports Camp is a perfect fit for busy modern families, with flexible scheduling that allows your child to sign up for a single week or the full summer.

A SUMMER OF TOTAL ENGAGEMENT

HMC is one camp with endless ways to play. Our curriculum rotates a massive variety of activities to keep every child engaged, and our multi-sport approach introduces campers to both fundamentals and game-specific skills.

Outdoor sports include baseball, flag football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball and tennis, and campers enjoy the playground and splash pad.

Indoor sports at the Finley Center include basketball, pickleball, running, volleyball and the Hoover Heights Climbing Center.

While playing sports, campers receive instruction that promotes physical fitness, nutrition, self-confidence, self-discipline, teamwork and leadership. They also take part in free-play STEM activities with real-world applications.

MEMBERSHIP PERKS & SAVINGS

Each week of the Summer Sports Camp is limited to 100 campers, and last year’s camp sold out, so act now to secure your child’s spot for 2026 and save money on tuition.

WHERE: Hoover Met Complex, 5508 Stadium Trace Parkway

WHEN: June 1–July 17

AGES: Rising 1st through 7th graders

CALL: 205-739-7364

WEB: hoovermetcomplex.com/camps

► Early Bird Tuition: Secure your child’s spot by March 15 to unlock a $215 weekly rate.

► Standard Tuition: For registrations beginning March 16, the tuition is $250 per week.

► Sibling Savings: Families enrolling multiple children receive an automatic 10% tuition discount.

Families pay a one-time, non-refundable $75 camp registration fee per child that includes one t-shirt.

All campers must be at least 6 years old by June 1, with no exceptions.

CAMP HOURS, OTHER SERVICES

Standard camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

To provide peace of mind for working parents, we offer convenient early drop off and pick up for $15 per service or $30 total if doing both. Before Care is available from 7:30-8:30 a.m. and After Care from 4:30-5:30 p.m.

We offer an optional weekly hot-lunch program for $45, with an entrée and two sides daily.

Don’t wait until the 2026 sessions are full. Give your child a summer of discovery, activity and endless ways to play.

Secure your spot now online at hoovermet complex.com/camps.

Take the stage this summer at Red Mountain Theatre

The summer theatre camps at Red Mountain Theatre in Birmingham give kids of all ages and skill levels the perfect outlet to use their creativity and imagination in dramatic ways.

Each summer at RMT, young kids step on stage for the first time and learn the basics of theatre. Other students develop their acting, singing and dancing skills. Those in high school may hone their theatrical skills for their next big career and academic steps.

The camps at RMT also help kids with more than just singing and dancing. They help them develop discipline and confidence, learn teamwork, make friends and — perhaps most of all — have fun in the summer.

“It’s the best kind of crazy energy, because we have so many kids who just blossom as they discover performing,” said Academy Manager Daley Dressler. “They’re channeling their talent and excitement into this new thing, with new friends that are just as excited.”

Camps run from May 26-July 31, with most taking place on the RMT Arts Campus downtown. RMT will also host fun satellite camps at Thompson High School in Alabaster and the Chelsea Community Center.

In Play Making camps for rising 4K-1st grades, budding artists explore theatrical storytelling. These half-day classes teach collaboration and creativity using familiar characters like Anna and Elsa, Spider-Man or Bluey.

WHERE: Red Mountain Theatre, 1600 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham

WHEN: May 26–July 31

AGES: Grades 4K – High School

CALL: 205-324-2424

WEB: redmountaintheatre.org/ summer-camps-2026

Rising 1st-3rd graders can become Triple Threats by working on their singing, dancing and acting skills. Students learn 3-5 pop songs or Broadway musical numbers to be performed at the end of the week.

At Theme Camps, rising 2nd-5th graders step into familiar book or movie worlds, like Hogwarts, Oz, or fairy tales, where they learn theatre fundamentals and explore their imagination.

Rising 4th-8th graders can shine on stage during week-long Blast Camps, where they work hard rehearsing a short script and presenting a full, choreographed performance.

Junior high and high schoolers hone specific skills, like auditioning, in the Summer Intensives.

Rising high-school seniors focused on their next academic steps can learn all about submitting applications in the College Prep Intensive.

Most camps end with short performances for family and friends. Camps start at $195

for half-day sessions and $350 for wholeday sessions. Extended care and lunch plans can be added. Financial aid is available for qualified applicants.

Camps fill up quickly so get in touch with us now. For details and registrations, call 205-324-2424, or go to redmountaintheatre.org/ summer-camps-2026.

Bloom into summer at Aldridge Gardens

Looking for a summer experience that’s equal parts fresh air, creativity, and a little everyday magic? Aldridge Gardens’ Summer Camps offer young campers the chance to unplug, explore, and discover right in the heart of Hoover’s hidden oasis.

Held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon, Aldridge Gardens camps are designed for boys and girls entering kindergarten through third grade.

Each week blends hands-on fun with learning through themes kids already love — from American Girl Dolls and art projects to nature crafts and S.T.E.A.M. adventures that spark curiosity about the world around them. It’s the kind of place where muddy shoes are welcome, imagination runs wild, and friendships grow alongside the flowers.

Campers enjoy mid-morning snacks and water (or can bring their own), and parents can feel good knowing their kids are spending their summer mornings outdoors in a safe, beautiful environment that encourages exploration and creativity.

Space is limited and fills up quickly each year, so early registration is encouraged.

The cost is $130 for Aldridge Gardens members and $150 for non-members. A $50 annual membership can pay for itself if you’re registering multiple campers or

WHERE: Aldridge Gardens, 3530

Lorna Road, Hoover

WHEN: June 1-26, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to noon

AGES: Rising kindergartners through third grade

WEB: aldridgegardens.com

multiple sessions — plus it comes with year-round perks for the whole family.

This summer, trade screen time for sunshine, curiosity, and unforgettable garden memories at Aldridge Gardens. Visit aldridgegardens.com to register today!

Share the story of

PASTOR

CONTINUED from page A1

“I believe the Lord has called me to retire, and that is something that has come after seeking the Lord’s guidance,” Gray said. “I am not retiring from ministry and will still serve the Lord in whatever capacity He may have for me, but what He has called me to do as pastor of Hunter Street will come to an end. I firmly believe that I have done what He has called me to do.”

What Gray has been called to do has included serving the church and the members within since 1978, when he was hired as the church’s part-time youth pastor.

Gray vividly recalls the exact day, Oct. 15, 1978, because it was the same day he met the woman who would later become his wife. He has remained devotedly married to Tricia for more than 40 years.

When Gray accepted the position as senior pastor several years later as a 29-year-old, the average age of the congregation of 220 people was 70 years old.

“The faithfulness of those people in the early days is what helped us to grow and flourish under the Lord’s help and guidance, and I am so thankful for them,” Gray said. “The Lord has been very kind to us over the years, and those people in the early days loved each and every one who walked through the doors.”

Gray was hired to be the senior pastor because many church members had moved out of western Birmingham into the suburbs, so the congregation was aging and declining in numbers.

Gray not only loved people well, but he taught directly from the scriptures and helped bring a fresh, young approach to the church.

A vote was taken in the late ’80s to relocate the church from Birmingham, and the congregation moved to Hoover.

For roughly 18 months, they met in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Lorna Road while a new building was constructed off Alabama 150. The first official service at the new location was held on Easter Sunday in 1989 with about 300 people attending.

“I like to say I have been the pastor for three different churches,” Gray said. “I remind the congregation each and every Sunday, whether it is during the welcome time or during the sermon portion, that Hunter Street is not a building — it is the people. We have people from all walks of life, different races, different faces, but we have one Lord, and we are committed to Him and serving faithfully what He calls us to do.”

LOVING THE PEOPLE

Now the congregation has about 5,000 members, and Gray said he is thankful for each one.

“I love the people at Hunter Street,” Gray said. “I think that is the part that makes me sad about retiring because I do genuinely love those I get to serve alongside.”

One person who has appreciated Gray’s ministry for the 31 years his family has attended Hunter Street is David Long, who serves as chairman of the deacons. “Buddy’s ministry has meant so much to me and my wife and our family over the years,” Long said.

“Buddy has helped us grow spiritually, and when you grow closer to the Lord, you grow closer to one another,” he said. “Buddy teaching God’s word with clarity and truth has grown me and my family over the years, and we appreciate the role he has had in our lives.”

Long said Gray married him and his wife while also being there for his family during losses, the birth of their son and many seasons of life.

“We have been through a lot of life together — the good and the challenging parts — and he has always been a loving, positive, wise, responsible and encouraging pastor, friend and confidant in our lives,” Long said. “Any time you are around Buddy, he is going to point you to Christ. He is really someone that walks the walk.”

Long said it is hard for him to think of not

having Gray serve as his pastor, but he is thankful for the time he has had with Gray.

“It is one of those things where you have to be thankful for the time you were given with someone and consider that time a gift,” Long said. “We will miss him terribly, but his impact in our lives over the years is irreplaceable.”

John Thweatt, pastor at First Baptist Church Pell City, has been friends with Gray for more than 20 years, traveled to several countries with him and gone on a retreat with him each year.

“Buddy Gray is Buddy Gray wherever he goes,” Thweatt said. “He is never in a hurry, and when you are with him, he is paying attention to you and not worried in the least about what is going on around him. He is very deliberate with his encouragement and friendship, and out of the thousands of churches we have in Alabama, I think you

would talk to many of the pastors of those churches, and they would all say Buddy is their friend.”

Thweatt said a unique characteristic about Gray is that he is easily the most accessible megachurch pastor you will meet.

“He knows the people, and not only does he know them, he loves them,” Thweatt said.

Scott Guffin, executive director of Christian ministry at Samford University, has been a longtime friend of Gray and known him for more than 30 years.

“Buddy truly lives up to his name — ‘Buddy’ — because he really is everyone’s buddy or friend,” Guffin said. “He is an incredible encourager and shepherd to his congregation. When I was a young minister, I was in a difficult church situation, and somebody suggested I go meet with Buddy. They told me he would be a good person to speak with. I was in my early 20s, and he

was just incredibly kind and encouraging to me. He told me to keep going, and that meant so much to me at the time.”

Guffin describes the relocation to Hoover as the moment Hunter Street exploded — when it grew from a smaller-sized church to a very large church.

“I think that growth speaks so much to Buddy as a whole,” Guffin said. “You have this person who is incredibly wise with a very down-to-earth personality, and he has an incredible ability to preach and teach and shepherd, and I think the growth of Hunter Street reflects all of that.”

SHAPING THE FUTURE

A significant part of Gray’s ministry over the years has been meeting with boys in 12th grade to help establish biblical foundations before they head off to college.

“This has been one of the most wonderful things I have ever done, and it energizes me more than anything to get to meet with them,” he said.

Gray started the ministry about 20 years ago, meeting with various groups of 12th graders to go over Wayne Grudem’s “Systematic Theology” book.

“I think seeing these young people hungry to know about the greatness of God, and wanting to deepen their theology and ways to know God on a closer level, is something that I would never trade for the world,” Gray said. “It has been a gift for me to see people fall in love with God.”

This year, Gray had 40 students in 12th grade sign up to take his class, as well as fathers of the students meeting with Gray. The boys’ mothers meet with his wife, Tricia, and Heather Hinton, who also serves at Hunter Street.

“We have had three people in the same family that are studying the same theology, and that has been such a unique and incredible thing,” Gray said.

Gray is eager to see that ministry continue under new leadership, he said.

LOOKING AHEAD

While there is no official date set for Gray’s retirement, he anticipates it being sometime this summer, when the church will hopefully announce a new lead pastor.

“I know the search committee has been spending the last few months in prayer over who may serve as pastor next,” Gray said. “I am incredibly thankful that I got to be the 14th pastor, but I like to tell people that there will be a 15th pastor, a 16th pastor and so on until Jesus comes back. We have a long heritage of faithfulness here at Hunter Street, and we are standing on the shoulders of some of the giants who went before us.”

Gray said the Lord has been faithful to the church for the last 119 years, and he is eager to see how it flourishes in future years.

“I am so incredibly glad that I got to be a part of Hunter Street for the last 40 years,” Gray said. “It has been a wonderful blessing to me.”

Left: Hunter Street Baptist Church Pastor Buddy Gray and his wife, Tricia Gray, were among more than 320 guests at the Salute to Veterans Ball at the Finley Center in Hoover in November 2018.

Photo by Jon Anderson.

Below: Gray leads a flock of about 500 members at Hunter Street. Photo by David Leong.

Dr. Ann Ardovino practiced general dentistry in private practice in Alabaster for 15 years, providing top-quality care for her patients.

She gradually developed a profound interest in the connection between the anatomy of the airway and bruxism, which is grinding and clenching of teeth. This led her to her training at the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, where she completed the Mastery Program and became a Diplomate.

“I started helping sleep apnea patients a few years ago and it became my passion,” Dr. Ardovino says.

She has now devoted her career to dental sleep-apnea treatment and snoring treatment.

In 2025, she sold her general dentistry practice and moved her sleep practice, Alabama Dental Sleep and Wellness, to Hoover.

“My practice is unique,” she says. “It’s dedicated solely to dental sleep apnea, including sleep-apnea and snoring appliances.”

In obstructive sleep apnea, the airway gets blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. Sleep apnea can contribute to

such serious medical problems as high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, cognitive impairment, depression and fatigue. Even worse, sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed.

Do you wake yourself up snoring? Do you grind your teeth or have morning headaches? Do you wake to use the bathroom frequently? Do you wake up feeling tired already? All these can be symptoms of sleep apnea.

Say goodbye to restless nights!

Call (205) 346-1488 or go to www.alabama dentalsleep.com to book your appointment today.

“I treat sleep-apnea patients with a custom-fabricated, FDAapproved device that moves the jaw forward,” Dr. Ardovino says. “We also scan digitally, so there’s no impressions, which patients love.”

CPAP is great for some patients, but others can’t tolerate it. “I’m

providing an alternative,” Dr. Ardovino says. “We work closely with patients and their physicians throughout the process.” Dr. Ardovino will determine the most effective position for the appliance.

Alabama Dental Sleep and Wellness also treats snoring and bruxism, which can sometimes be a sleep apnea symptom. Snoring can be disruptive to your spouse or bed partner and Alabama Dental Sleep and Wellness can help with that.

“Another unique aspect of my practice is that we file your medical benefits,” she says. Alabama Dental Sleep and Wellness welcomes Medical Insurance, such as Viva Medicare, Medicare, VA Continuing Care Insurance, and supplemental plans. We also file any private commercial plans as well.

Dr. Ardovino has over 200 hours of sleep dentistry education and completed a TMJ fellowship at the Dawson Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida. She’s a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.

Peace of Mind

A Life Plan Community offers a unique opportunity for residents and their families to experience peace of mind through access to a full continuum of high-quality care for life. It’s the promise that even if your needs change, you’ll always be able to live in the community you call home.

A New Way of Living

Join a community of people who love to celebrate the everyday joys of living while also having the assurance that Life Care provides. Learn more about the best retirement lifestyle Birmingham has to offer!

Dr. Ann Ardovino

CONTINUED from page A1

He became known as the world’s smallest professional piano player after seeking out the Guinness Book of World Records to find out if he was a potential title holder. While another title holder who is no longer alive holds the official record in their specific Guinness category, it was determined that Ogletree is the smallest living professional pianist.

Height is only part of Ogletree’s story. He doesn’t hear music the way most people do. He sees it.

A rare form of synesthesia allows him to experience music as numbers — the same language that guides his work as a CPA and chief financial officer for a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama subsidiary.

“I see piano notes and numbers associated with those notes, or it’s a numerical sequence that would not make any sense outside of a piano,” he said. “It’s kind of like my own translation of a song.”

Ogletree is incapable of playing any song exactly the same way twice. He likens it to a form of jazz improvisation.

“The physical way that I play the piano stylistically I’ve never seen replicated,” he said. “It’s not something anybody taught me. It’s something I’ve developed over the years because physically, I have to make adaptations for everything. It’s almost like I’m playing a completely different instrument than a regular piano.”

Behind the keys, Ogletree offers an experience that’s creatively captivating with an artistic, emotional athleticism that defies thorough description. The result is an emotional fluency that flows through music rather than words.

His performances also include segments in which he takes a list of audience requests, then seamlessly blends them into a medley that sometimes surprises even himself as it emerges through his fingertips.

“From just a few notes, you can tell it’s Jon Michael because of his touch and stylistic choices,” said Drew Kearney, worship pastor at Mountain Brook Community Church, where Ogletree is also a pianist. “His style is as unique as his fingerprint, but at the same time there is a warmth to it that draws you in immediately.”

Living as a little person has required constant adaptation, including at the piano. Ogletree uses a pedal extension, first built for him in the mid-1990s. He also supplements his reach by crossing his leg to steady himself as he reaches each end of the keys, and he relies on hand-eye coordination he’s developed over decades.

In his personal life, Ogletree drives an adapted car and sometimes uses a scooter to get around. His house includes minimal modifications. He splits household duties with his roommates, who are also longtime friends. When he travels for work or pleasure, he usually goes with friends or enlists a relative as a travel partner.

Adaptations have never been a source of bitterness for Ogletree. He sees his visibility not as a burden but as an opening.

“I am created differently for a purpose,” he said. “That purpose is to glorify God.”

His belief shapes how he approaches performance. He has never avoided a venue or an audience. Instead, he sees music as a way to meet people where they are.

“I’m all for going out into the world and using music as ministry,” said Ogletree, a graduate of Briarwood Christian School and Samford University, where he is an adjunct professor in personal finance. “People who want to find out about me will then go on my YouTube channel and find out about Jesus.”

Before Ogletree could even walk, music seemed to be a force within him.

“What I’ve been told is, again, I could not even walk at the age of 3, but I would find my way into the room that had our piano,” Ogletree said. “I could reach, but I couldn’t see the keys.”

One day, his brother lifted him onto the piano bench.

“I just sat there and figured it out, I suppose — trial and error,” Ogletree said. “By the end, I was playing chords.”

Ogletree booked his first wedding at age 7,

earning $100 to play “Jesus Loves Me” for a friend of the family at Riverchase Baptist Church. By 18, he was playing professionally at an Italian restaurant in Vestavia Hills.

While he took piano lessons as a youngster and learned to read music, his gift flourished most when he was freed from the constraints of conventional piano playing. Now, when he’s not managing a team of 20 as a CFO or teaching personal finance classes, he travels for

concerts, performances and public speaking.

Because Ogletree’s perception of music as numbers and segments never fully turns off, ironically he doesn’t listen to music for relaxation or enjoyment. But when he sits at the piano, all the “noise” of the numbers fades.

“By the time I’m playing it, that synesthesia gift has done its part,” he said. “I’m releasing what I know how to play. I’m just grateful that what comes out is something people enjoy

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For more on Jon Michael Ogletree, you can find him online:

► jmopiano.com

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► Jon Michael Ogletree on Spotify

because it would have to come out.”

Musically, Ogletree gravitates toward challenge. One of his favorite artists is Stevie Wonder because of the musical complexity of Wonder’s compositions, especially the 1985 hit “Overjoyed.”

“Everything from rhythms, chord progressions, notes that shouldn’t fit together that somehow do when [Wonder] plays,” Ogletree said. “He has such a mature understanding of music that most people don’t.”

Ogletree’s favorite song to play is Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” which reflects some of Ogletree’s personal journey. Among his most popular performances on Spotify and the livestreaming platform Twitch is “Georgia on My Mind,” a 1930 song made famous by Ray Charles in 1960.

For Ogletree, music, faith and purpose are inseparable. The same mind that translates melodies into numbers and patterns also guides his work in boardrooms and music venues. At the piano, that intention becomes visible — not as notes on a page but as numbers, patterns and a lifetime of meaning released one song at a time.

“What strikes me most about his playing is I can hear his story through the music that he composes,” Kearney said. “His struggles, his joys, his heroes and his whole journey spills out on the piano when he sits down to play. It’s almost like his own language that he uses to speak to those within earshot of the keys. There will never be another Jon Michael Ogletree. In my book, he’s a living legend.”

Above: Ogletree regularly performs on Explora Journeys cruises all over the world, including this voyage to Italy. Photo courtesy of Jon Michael Ogletree.

Left: Ogletree, also a CPA, plays in an improvisational style without reading music. He never plays a song the same way twice. Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a great time to learn more about preventing the disease — the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in America.

Screening for colon cancer is more important than ever because of a troubling trend with the disease, according to Dr. Chris Shaver, a board-certified gastroenterologist and partner at Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates.

“The risk of colon cancer increases with age, but it’s no longer just a disease of older adults,” Dr. Shaver says. “While rates have declined in older adults thanks to screening, we’re seeing a rise in younger patients — even people in their 30s and 40s — particularly those with a family history or other risk factors, which is why understanding individual risk is so important.”

New American Cancer Society data shows that colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancerrelated death in adults under 50. This trend is “incredibly concerning” and “reinforces the importance of earlier screening and awareness,” Dr. Shaver says.

Colon cancer screening is critical because the disease often causes no symptoms in its early stages.

Dr. Chris Shaver

“Patients should not wait for symptoms before getting screened,” he says. “When symptoms do occur, they may include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or anemia.”

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers thanks to screening colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy is “the gold standard” for colon cancer screening, he says. “It allows us to

detect cancer early and prevent it by removing precancerous polyps during the same procedure.”

“Our goal is to make colon cancer screening as easy and stress-free as possible,” says Julianna Hallman, Director of Marketing. “We know it’s not something people look forward to, so we focus on helping patients feel comfortable every step of the way.”

Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates has 12 clinics and 11

procedure locations in Central Alabama, making it easy for patients to get screened close to home.

“Taking just one day out of your routine for a colonoscopy can make a lifesaving difference by helping prevent colon cancer,” Hallman says.

At Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates, colonoscopy is one of many services offered as part of a comprehensive approach to digestive health, from preventive screenings and advanced procedures to the treatment of a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions.

“The most important message is that colon cancer is highly preventable,” Dr. Shaver says.

“Screening doesn’t just find cancer early, it can stop it before it starts. It’s also important not to ignore symptoms or brush things off if something doesn’t feel right. Getting screened at the right time can truly save lives.”

YouthServe: Shaping a generation of empathetic leaders

By APRIL COFFEY

On a Saturday morning, while many teens are still asleep, others are hard at work — sorting clothing donations, packaging diapers or cleaning debris from a local riverbank.

For students involved in the YouthServe program, service is not just an extracurricular activity. It’s a lens through which they view their local communities and the larger world.

Founded in 1998, the Birmingham-based nonprofit empowers young people throughout the metro area, including Hoover, to engage directly with their communities through service-learning projects, hands-on work and reflection.

Since its founding, more than 35,000 students have participated in YouthServe programs designed not only to encourage volunteerism but also to deepen understanding of the social issues affecting their neighbors and surrounding areas.

“YouthServe is unique because we do not design the projects for our students; they design and execute the projects on their own with support from us,” YouthServe Executive Director Crystal Jones said.

“That student-driven approach helps students understand the impact they can have right now.”

Flagship YouthServe programs include the Youth Action Council, a leadership program where students meet monthly to plan service projects and build civic skills, and the Youth Philanthropy Council, which guides teens through the grantmaking process, allocating $20,000 annually to other local nonprofits.

Community service days provide volunteer opportunities for youth ages 12-18, including river cleanups with Cahaba Riverkeeper, diaper packaging with Bundles of Hope and donation organizing at the Full Circle thrift store.

Participants only need a positive attitude, a desire to collaborate and a willingness to make a difference.

YouthServe also partners with schools through Service Education, a discussion-based curriculum that develops critical thinking, communication and leadership skills, and Changemaker Councils, student-led groups that meet bimonthly to identify community needs and implement projects.

For Hoover High student Harrison Morton, the experience has been transformative.

“YouthServe exposes me beyond the city I live in,” Morton said. “I learn about what is happening within and outside of the city of Birmingham and the hardships that people face, including those within my community.”

That exposure — both geographically and

emotionally — is central to the organization’s mission. Service projects often tackle issues such as food insecurity, housing instability and educational inequity — concerns that feel abstract until students meet the people most affected.

In Birmingham, a city with a rich history and complex social landscape, that awareness fosters informed, compassionate citizens who understand both the “what” and the “why” of community challenges.

Briana Morton, a member of the YouthServe board of directors, a lifelong educator and Harrison’s mother, reflected on the program’s impact: “I am in awe of these students. They truly are changing the world.”

Jones said that while students in YouthServe come from all over the Birmingham area and have different backgrounds, “When we get

them together, they often realize how similar they are.”

Participants are encouraged to identify their own strengths — whether in communication, organization, creativity or problem solving — and apply them in meaningful ways. The result is growth that extends far beyond resume lines or required service hours.

For many teens, adolescence is a time of self-discovery. YouthServe adds another dimension: discovering a responsibility to others.

“The students that we work with in YouthServe are not the leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today,” Jones said.

Through YouthServe, service becomes more than an activity. The goal is for it to become a foundation, shaping young people who are aware, empathetic and ready to lead.

YouthServe students participate in a variety of service activities in their communities. Photos courtesy of Crystal Jones.

Trace Crossings Veterinary + Pet Wellness brings quality care to your home

Trace Crossings Veterinary + Pet Wellness in Hoover is a fully-equipped mobile veterinary clinic that brings comprehensive, hospitalquality care directly to your home, where you and your pets feel most comfortable.

Each appointment is designed around your schedule and your pet’s needs, with no anxious car rides or crowded waiting rooms.

“Home appointments reduce stress for pets and their families, making exams more accurate and handling easier,” says clinic founder Dr. Melissa Miller, a Hoover native.

“Mobile care also respects the client’s time, with no driving and no need to rearrange an entire day around a single appointment that’s running late because the clinic got behind,” says Dr. Miller, a 2014 graduate of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Trace Crossings Veterinary, which primarily serves West Hoover, officially opened January 30 and is planning a grand opening and ribbon cutting in April.

West Hoover has “a genuine need” for the mobile clinic, Dr. Miller says. “It has a large population of pets and families but limited access to veterinary care.”

In addition, Dr. Miller grew up in Bluff Park and now lives in Trace Crossings with her

husband David Miller, who serves as the clinic’s operations manager, and their two daughters.

“This area has always felt like home to me,” she says.

The Millers are proud that Trace Crossings Veterinary is family owned. “We wanted to create something local, personal and independent,” Dr. Miller says.

Dr. Miller is also proud of how her van is equipped. “It’s designed to function as a full-service mobile veterinary hospital, not a scaled-down clinic, with digital X-ray, ultrasound, an onboard lab, laser therapy, dental equipment and a surgical suite, along with many other advanced tools,” she says.

Just as important, Dr. Miller creates a warm,

205-509-1499

tracecrossingspets.com

Monday–Thursday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

welcoming vibe for people and pets. Both Dr. Miller and Kelsey Stevens — her technician and practice manager — are Fear Free-certified.

“Our goal is for every visit to feel calm, safe and deeply personal,” Dr. Miller says.

She also takes the time to listen to clients and clearly explain treatment options. Unlike many traditional clinics, each visit is unhurried and totally centered on your pet.

“We want you to feel heard, confident and cared for every step of the way,” Dr. Miller says.

There are a few services not available on the van. For hospitalization or emergency care, Dr. Miller refers patients to Steel City Vets, and she partners with a brick-and-mortar practice for more advanced or highly specialized surgeries.

Dr. Melissa Miller

Our Foot/Ankle Specialists

William Krauss, DO Foot / Ankle Surgeon

John Kirchner, MD Foot / Ankle Surgeon

Adam Lukasiewicz, MD Foot / Ankle Surgeon

SPORTS

Bucs not shying away from high expectations

By KYLE PARMLEY

Hoover High School baseball has the kind of roster that attracts attention before the first pitch is ever thrown.

The Buccaneers enter the 2026 season with high expectations, led by a senior class that includes Tennessee signee Jaxson Wood and LSU signee Will Adams. But for head coach Adam Moseley, the biggest strength is what happens away from the spotlight.

“I love going to work every day because of what kind of guys we’ve got,” Moseley said. “I know we’re talented, but they are legitimately better people.”

Wood and Adams lead the charge among this year’s roster. James Au (Northwest Florida State College), Cameron Lowery (Coastal Alabama South), Grayson Payne (Calhoun) and Tanner Underwood (Snead State) are also part of a strong senior class set to play college ball.

Hoover brings back a large portion of its offense, while the pitching staff will look different than a year ago.

One arm expected to make a major impact is senior Max Crowder, who was not healthy for much of last season. Moseley said Crowder should be healthy this year and “be a really big part” on the mound. Crowder is also expected to play a major role at third base.

The senior group has experience all over the field. Jake Fridley

returns behind the plate. Payne is back as a returning starter at second base, while Au returns at first. In the outfield, Jonah Winston and Adams are among the returning pieces, with Branning Carey also in the mix after

dealing with injuries last year. Caleb Stone is another key name, expected to pitch a lot while also having a chance to play in the outfield.

With that kind of flexibility, Moseley said several of the preseason

battles revolve around how the pieces fit when arms are rotating in and out.

“Catcher is definitely one,” he said. “Whoever’s going to play third base and first base when various

guys are pitching is a big deal, and whoever’s going to play that outfield spot when other guys are pitching is a big deal.”

Wood remains the centerpiece defensively. Moseley said Wood will continue to play shortstop, even as Hoover works him at other spots to prepare him for the next level.

Adams’ impact, Moseley said, is felt everywhere, not just in one box score.

“He is the most influential player in our program,” Moseley said. “When your two hardest workers are your two best players, and that’s Jaxson and Will. They work so hard.”

Hoover also has non-seniors pushing for roles. Moseley mentioned Drew Monte as a catcher who is “competing for catcher with Jake,” along with Hudson Jackman, Jesus Capo and Hudson Oliver, a sophomore who moved in from Guntersville.

As the season begins, Hoover will not shy away from a challenging slate. The Bucs will play in prestigious tournaments along with competing in Class 7A, Area 6 with Oak Mountain, Vestavia Hills and Hewitt-Trussville.

For a team with state championship goals, the approach is still simple.

“We want them to do things the right way all the time,” Moseley said, “and hope that the Lord blesses us with some positive things at the end.”

Left: Jaxson Wood (3). Right: Will Adams (8). Photos courtesy of Lindsay Handey.

Left: Jaxson Wood (3). Photo by Richard Force. Right: Will Adams (8). Photo courtesy of Lindsay Handey.

Strong roster, high hopes for Jags

By KYLE PARMLEY

Spain Park High School’s softball team believes it is ready to take the next step.

The Jaguars advanced to regionals last season, but entering 2026, there is a sense that this group has the pieces to push even further.

“I like this group a lot,” head coach Allyson Ritenour said. “We have some really good senior leaders — some really good upperclassmen.”

That senior class includes Allie Whitaker, Klara Thompson, Teagan Huey and Mary Payton Dees. Ritenour has coached the group since middle school, giving this season a unique feel.

“Technically I’ve had them for six years,” she said.

Whitaker will work at third base and shortstop while Thompson anchors the middle infield at shortstop and second base. Huey brings versatility to the corners at first and third. Dees

contributes in the pitching circle and in the outfield.

Ritenour said the seniors have embraced their roles as mentors, especially with a large freshman class joining the program.

“They’re doing a great job of really just mentoring everyone on the team,” she said. “It’s like having a bunch of little mini coaches.”

Spain Park has 11 freshmen in the program now, several of whom gained varsity experience last season. That mix of youth and experience is part of what makes this team intriguing.

Among the returning juniors are Reagan Roberts, Abby King and Jaley Young. Sophomore Jordan Weiner and freshmen Chloe Wade, Maxie Provost and Morgan Bryant all played last year as well.

Roberts has primarily been an outfielder but is working in the infield this year. King will pitch and play in the outfield, while Young will pitch and play first base. Weiner and Bryant

are outfield options, Bryant and Wade return at catcher, and Provost brings versatility as a pitcher and first baseman.

Grayson Heaton, now a sophomore, also returns in the infield.

Two freshmen expected to factor in are Peyton Williamson and Taylor Fontaine, with the likes of Bea Parker, Caroline Gilliland, Preslee Roberts, Alanna Woodham, Stephanie Farris and Mila Bellamy set to get their opportunities as well.

“Being consistent and very intentional is probably going to be our biggest thing,” Ritenour said.

The Jags feature a roster with several future college players. Whitaker is headed to Mississippi College while Thompson has signed with Mercer University. Young is a Wallace State Community College commit and King has committed to play at BYU. Several others on the current roster will find college softball homes

in the future as well.

The Jaguars have emphasized more purposeful training in the offseason, from strength work to speed development, as they prepare for another competitive area that includes Chelsea, Pelham and Helena.

“They’re all very competitive,” Ritenour said.

The ultimate goal is clear. A state tournament run is certainly within reach, which would be yet another step further for this program as Ritenour enters her fourth season as head coach.

“We definitely want to get better every year,” Ritenour said.

Spain Park’s regular season schedule is challenging, with the Jags also facing the likes of Oak Mountain, Homewood, Pell City and Hoover outside of area play. They will play in tournaments at Vestavia Hills, Gardendale, Hoover, Orange Beach and Sardis in addition to the Jag Classic they host annually.

Jaley Young

Klara Thompson

Allie Whitaker. Photos courtesy of Teagan Huey.

Maxie Provost

Jags seeking improvement

By KYLE PARMLEY

Spain Park High School baseball’s 2025 season wasn’t what the Jaguars were hoping for, but the season featured plenty of growth and potential for future years.

Head coach Will Smith believes the Jags have enough experience back in 2026 to make a push toward the standard the program has established, starting with getting back into the playoff picture.

“I think we’ve got a chance to be competitive,” Smith said.

Spain Park brings back the bulk of a lineup that was built around underclassmen last season. Smith said the Jaguars finished last year with one freshman starter, five sophomores who started at times, two juniors and a senior. The message to that group has been clear, though: returning does not automatically guarantee improvement.

“We made sure that they heard the message that just because they came back didn’t make them better,” Smith said. “They had to put in work and put in time.”

That growth will be tested in the moments that matter most. Smith said Spain Park’s sophomore-heavy group had plenty of talent but at times tried to do too much in big situations. He pointed to strikeouts in key spots and mental mistakes as areas the Jaguars must clean up.

“The high school game, in my opinion, stays the same,” Smith said. “The teams that don’t beat themselves — the teams that throw strikes, catch it when it’s hit to them, put the ball in play — those are the teams that are going to be around at the end.”

Spain Park’s senior class includes nine players this spring. The two everyday positional anchors from last season are senior shortstop Rhys Jones, a UAB commit, and senior outfielder Joe Cross, a Snead State commit who

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will play center field or left field.

Around the diamond, the Jaguars return catcher Evan Taylor, who started as a sophomore. Smith said Spain Park could also allow Taylor to spend more time at designated hitter or first base.

Connor Greb, an Auburn commit, is expected to start the season at third base. Second base is a competition, and shortstop depth includes senior Ryne Paquette and junior Michael Johnson. Smith said both Paquette and Johnson are expected to pitch, as well. First base remains a question mark entering the season.

In the outfield, Cross returns alongside two juniors, Slade Bounds and Brodie Bragg, giving Spain Park experience in all three spots.

On the mound, Smith said the Jaguars do not have one pitcher expected to carry the load, but he believes Spain Park can piece together a staff. Several arms are in the mix, including Houston Holmes, who gained experience last year as a

sophomore, and senior Nathan Byrd, who Smith believes is poised for a strong season.

Hudson Franks, who moved in over the summer, is another pitcher expected to help, along with senior strike-thrower Caden Smith.

Spain Park will be tested early with a schedule that includes the PBR Kickoff Classic, the Perfect Game High School Showdown, the Hoover Buc Classic and tough regular season contests against teams such as Vestavia Hills, Cullman, Huntsville, Hoover, Auburn and Oak Mountain before they get to area play against Pelham, Helena and Chelsea.

“We could be .500 [record-wise] going into area and be good,” Smith said.

For Spain Park, the goal is to peak when the games matter most and to play a cleaner brand of baseball along the way.

“Just hit the ball back over the net,” Smith said, comparing baseball to a sport like tennis. “And just don’t beat yourself.”

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From left: Rhys Jones (5), Connor Greb (10) and Joe Cross (21) during a game between Spain Park and Oxford in February 2025 at Spain Park High School. Photos by Richard Force.

Bucs leaning on senior hitters, young pitchers

By KYLE PARMLEY

Hoover High School’s softball team will feature plenty of familiar faces this spring.

The Buccaneers return a large portion of their lineup from last season, giving head coach Trey Matlock plenty of experience to lean on. The challenge will be replacing the contributions of the twin tandem of Haley and Lindsey Westhoven, both in the circle and behind the plate.

Hoover has six seniors this year. Reagan Lawson started in the outfield last year and is drawing interest from multiple college programs. She will be a force at the top of the Bucs’ lineup. Mollie Hanson, a Berry College signee, is one of the top returning players in the area.

Cheyenne Conner is heading to Bevill State Community College to play volleyball, but she forms a terrific outfield tandem with Lawson. Avi Davis and Ava Hartman have been with the program for the last three years and will be major contributors once again. Bri Morales will look to lock down the other outfield spot.

Avery Chaney, a Troy University commit, is expected to anchor the middle infield at shortstop.

The biggest question marks come in replacing the innings and leadership lost from the Westhovens. Lindsey handled the bulk of the catching duties and was the three-hole hitter, while Haley accounted for more than 100 innings in the circle.

Hoover will turn to two young pitchers, Aaliyah Hayes and Caroline Chaney, to carry much of that load. Matlock said the key for both will be attacking hitters early.

“Be ahead of the count; don’t get behind the count,” he said. “If we can just get them ahead of count, not walk as many people and build

confidence in them, that will help.”

Three pitchers moving up to key varsity roles — Anabelle Beasley, Bella Simpson and Gabbi Berzette — are also expected to factor into the rotation mix as needed.

Behind the plate, Hailey Nichols is in line to take on a larger role. Matlock said the focus with Nichols will be steady defense.

“If she can be a wall for us [behind the plate], that’s going to help,” he said.

Sophomore Claire Carver is a rising talent and is competing for time in the infield. Hadley Williams will join the softball team after the inevitable Hoover girls basketball postseason run. Williams could slide back into the lineup once she returns after impressing in her

opportunities last year.

Some other players will feature on the JV team but will likely have opportunities to push some of the varsity standouts, with players like Caroline Matlock in line to help the Bucs as needed.

Hoover’s depth is thinner than in recent seasons. That makes development crucial, especially with several multi-year starters set to graduate after this season.

The schedule will test the Bucs early and often. Hoover will face Helena, the reigning Class 6A champion, and Thompson, the Class 7A champion. Tournament trips include Vestavia Hills, Jacksonville State University, Auburn, Gulf Shores, Calera and Florence.

Class 7A, Area 6 includes Vestavia Hills, Hewitt-Trussville and Oak Mountain, with each of those teams capable of winning any game and competing for spots in the postseason.

“Coin flip,” Matlock said of how the area stacks up.

Last season, Hoover reached the regional tournament and will look to do that and more this spring.

Mollie Hanson (0) and Avery Chaney (3). Photos by Kyle Parmley.

Above: Mollie Hanson (0). Below: Cheyenne Conner (2).

EVENTS

Save the Date

HOOVER KI HOLI

► Where: Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road

► When: Saturday, March 7, 1 p.m.

► Details: This South Asia-themed festival welcomes spring and includes kite flying, a powder color toss event, entertainment, magic, food and DJ music. South Asian nonprofit organizations are managing the event. Aastha Shastri is the host.

► Cost: Free

► More info: Hoover Ki Holi on Facebook

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION

► Where: Beef O’Brady’s at the Grove, 5519 Grove Blvd.

► When: Saturday, March 14, noon to midnight

► Details: For this celebration of Irish culture, food, music and dancing, attendees are invited to wear their greenest outfits and listen to live bands on a stage in the parking lot. The celebration will start at noon and is scheduled to go until midnight. Special food offered will include corn bread and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips.

► Cost: $10 cover charge for ages 13 and older

► More info: Beef’s at The Grove on Facebook

KINDNESS SUMMIT

► Where: Hoover Public Library, 200 Municipal Drive

► When: Monday, March 9, 3-6:30 p.m.

► Details: The Hoover Public Library is partnering with the JustServe nonprofit to give people a chance to learn about volunteer opportunities with a variety of nonprofits in the Birmingham area. Volunteers can learn about different groups in a low-pressure, casual environment, and organizations can increase public awareness about their missions and find volunteers. The summit will be held in the library’s Fitzgerald and Shakespeare rooms, theater conference room, Friends of the Library Gallery and Southern Voices Gallery.

► Cost: Free

► More info: events.hooverlibrary.org

JUDY M. MERRITT MEMORIAL 5K

► Where: Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road

► When: Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m.

► Details: This 5K race will support scholarships for Jefferson State Community College students in need. Medals will be awarded for the top three male and female runners overall and the top three male and female runners in each age group. Free popcorn, cotton candy and other treats will be provided, as well as a DJ, face painting and more.

► Cost: $25 per person through March 13; $30 on race day; $15 for college students and ages 18 and younger

► More info: runsignup.com/Race/AL/ Birmingham/judyMMerrittMemorial 5KRunWalk

► For more events news, connect with the Hoover Sun online by scanning the QR code.

► Have an upcoming event to share? Email Jon Anderson at janderson@starnesmedia.com.

HOOVER SMALL BUSINESS ALLIANCE BREAKFAST

► Where: Metropolitan Church, 2800 Metropolitan Way

► When: Wednesday, March 11, 8-9 a.m.

► Details: Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis will host a question-and-answer session. Former state Rep. Paul DeMarco, an attorney, will serve as the moderator. No reservations are necessary. For more information about the networking breakfast or the Hoover Small Business Alliance, contact founder Traci Fox at 205-919-0561 or hooversmall businessalliance@gmail.com.

► Cost: Free ► More info: Hoover Small Business Alliance on Facebook

STARDOME COMEDY CLUB

March 5: Sarper Guven, 7:30 p.m.

March 5-7: Peyton Ruddy, 8 p.m. Thursday; 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Friday; 7:30 and 10 p.m. Saturday

March 11: Travis Holp, 7:30 p.m.

March 12: Sapphira Cristal, 7:30 p.m.

March 13-14: Donnell Rawlings, 7 and 9:15 p.m. Friday; 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday

March 13-15: Comedian CP, 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Friday; 7:30 and 10 p.m. Saturday; 7:30 p.m. Sunday

March 15: Jamie Lissow, 6 p.m.

March 18: Zach Rushing, 7:30 p.m.

March 20-21: Tommy Davidson, 7 and 9:15 p.m. Friday; 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday

March 24: Alok Vaid Menon, 7:30 p.m.

March 26: Phil Hanley, 7:30 p.m.

TASTE OF TEAL GALA

► Where: Hyatt Regency Birmingham

— The Wynfrey Hotel, 1000 Galleria Circle

► When: Friday, March 13, 6 p.m.

► Details: The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation is holding a gala to support gynecologic cancer research, awareness and patients, including a seated dinner, drinks, casino games, and silent and live auctions. The foundation will also present four “Legacy of Laura” awards to a company and three individuals for the hope, compassion and positivity they have brought to patients and survivors.

► Cost: $250 per person or $2,500 for a table for 10

► More info: thinkoflaura.org/ tasteofteal

GOVERNMENT MEETINGS

March 2:

March 9:

March

March 10:

March 11: Hoover Arts Council, 5 p.m., Hoover City Hall

March 16: Hoover Board of Zoning

5:30 p.m., Hoover City Hall

March 17:

March 19:

March 23:

Ready to learn to play bridge?

Come join other beginners at the Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club for a series of lessons on the basics of bridge.

The first two weeks are free! The following six weeks of instruction costs only $60 if you choose to continue.

Classes are taught by Silver Life Master Gena Stoves. The topics covered in the introductory weeks include the language and mechanics of bridge including bidding, scoring and opening bids.

Specific topics will begin in the third week, including:

• Opening suit bids and responses

• No trump bids

• Stayman and Transfers,

• Overcalls,

• Doubles,

• Preemptive bids

• Strong hands

Class Registration is only available online at bhambridge.org. Classes start Tuesday, March 17 at 9:30 a.m.

The Club offers members the opportunity to “Join. Play. Learn.” duplicate bridge year-round with a lively, learning, local bridge community.

Students are eligible for a complimentary Guest Membership to the American Contract Bridge League.

Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club

• Where: 144 Business Center Drive, Birmingham

• Call: 205-593-4005

• Web: bhambridge.org

For questions about joining or member benefits, contact Club Manager Robert Whiting at Robert.Whiting@BhamBridge.org

EVENTS

Christian recording star Steven Curtis Chapman still finds reason to sing

By L. KENT WOLGAMOTT

Steven Curtis Chapman grappled with the dilemma facing every recording artist when he began to contemplate writing songs for his latest album, “Still” — in the streaming era when little physical product is sold and most listeners choose only a song or two from any artist, is there a reason to make an album?

“That’s a question I’ve asked myself quite a bit. Really, does it make sense to make a record?” said Chapman, who brings his Speechless tour to Metropolitan Church on March 6. “Do people do that anymore, or do they just make singles and stream songs? I love albums. But they’re not being listened to that much.”

However, Chapman said, his internal struggle was deeper and more existential than simply contemplating changes in the manner in which people experience music.

“My real wrestling, honestly — I’m being open, vulnerable and honest with this — I wrestled a lot with, ‘Does anybody really care?’” he said. “I’ve made 23, 24, 25 records. I’ve been doing this 30-plus years.

“I went to see the Doobie Brothers, Journey, Toto,” Chapman said. “One of them said, ‘We’ve found new songs make people want to go to the bathroom.’ The funny part was he then said, ‘This song made people go to the bathroom in 1982,’ and it was a giant hit. All artists that have been around for a while can relate to that.”

That gave 63-year-old Chapman, the most awarded artist in contemporary Christian music history, pause. After all those albums, five Grammy Awards, some 60 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards (including a record seven Artist of the Year awards), he had to ask himself if there was a reason to create new music for the audience that has embraced him since his first hit, 1988’s “His Eyes.”

“So you think, ‘If I’m going to do this, are enough people going to be interested?’” Chapman said. “I have people come up and talk to me about my music. They’re really well meaning, but they’ll say, ‘The new record is great, but there’s never going to be another “Great Awakening,” “I Will Be Here,” “Cinderella”’ or whatever. That’s a beautiful, wonderful thing. But as a creative person, I think, ‘I don’t need to do this new song.’”

As it turned out, Chapman did need to do at least one new song — “Don’t Lose Heart” — which made him the first contemporary Christian music artist to have 50 No. 1 hits in the genre.

But “Don’t Lose Heart” isn’t a standalone composition. It’s a key part of “Still,” the album that Chapman wrote and recorded during the pandemic and released in late 2022.

“You don’t read chapter 14 of a book; you’re not going to get the whole story,” Chapman said. “That’s how I’ve felt about albums. The way I approach things and write them — there’s a journey. There’s a journey of life and faith — my life journey, my faith journey. They’re like my journals. I’ve never been a very good journaler. I’ll start and after a few months, I’ll have like four pages.

“As the world has changed and gone through so much over the last few years with the global pandemic and everything that’s going on socially, I’ve lost friends and family members, gone through some tough things, emotionally and in my life, I’m wrestling things out in songs,” he said. “That’s what I’ve always done.”

One of the “Still” songs, for example, was triggered by the Black Lives Matter protests. It’s “Living Color,” a tribute to his best friend in seventh grade, Carlton Bell. Chapman had begun the song about Bell, who is black, 20 years ago and finished it for the album, leaving in a line where he expresses concern about writing about race.

Other songs deal with his pain, grief and recovery from tragedies, like the 2008 death

Chapman’s “Still” album cover.

of his 5-year-old daughter.

“The song ‘Unfixable’ — it’s all of these things,” Chapman said. “I’m a fixer. I’ve come to realize my whole life my role has been to fix broken stuff. Then we went through all this stuff, like the death of my daughter a few years ago, and I had to learn I can’t fix all the broken stuff. There are just things you can’t fix this side of heaven. How do you deal with that?”

That personal approach sets Chapman’s songs apart from the hymns, praise music and evangelically oriented songs that typify “Christian music.”

“I grew up singing songs in church, the hymns, the praise songs,” Chapman said. “But the things that have always been most meaningful for me, in songs, or let’s go to Psalms, where King David is saying, ‘Lord are you

going to forgive me? I’m lost.’ He’s so honest in that. I didn’t get that until a few years ago.

“I want that honesty — that there are things you are searching for in scripture,” he said.

“You don’t have to write this fancy, religious song. You can write ‘I listen when you say help’ or ‘I’m hurting.’ I can hold onto that vulnerability — being honest.”

That honesty, Chapman said, extends to his personal participation in some worship songs.

“With worship songs, I’ve probably sung ‘I’m not afraid, I’m not afraid’ in church hundreds of times,” he said. “But I’ve stopped. I can’t sing that in good conscience. God knows my heart. I struggle with fear. I could sing

‘I don’t want to be afraid.’ That’s different. That’s what I want to bring out in my songs.”

His tours to promote “Still” have been

Steven Curtis Chapman

► What: Speechless Tour

► When: Friday, March 6, 7 p.m.

► Where: Metropolitan Church, 2800 Metropolitan Way

► Tickets: $45.91 to $121.60

► Web: ticketweb.com/event/ steven-curtis-chapmansmetropolitan-churchtickets/14720633

“ ”

You don’t read chapter 14 of a book; you’re not going to get the whole story,” Chapman said.

“That’s how I’ve felt about albums. The way I approach things and write them — there’s a journey.

STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN

rewarding on a personal level.

“The thing about the tour and the record

‘Still’ is, after 35-plus years, I, as a singer/ songwriter and a follower of Jesus, who tries in the songs I’m writing — the poetry I’m writing — to tell about this journey I’m on, which has been more wonderful, more painful than I could have imagined,” Chapman said. “Still, I want to keep doing this, singing about it.”

Steven Curtis Chapman has been in the music industry for more than 30 years. Photos courtesy Steven Curtis Chapman.

EVENTS

Betting for a cure: Pink Palace Casino Night fights breast

By STAFF

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is gearing up for its 18th annual Pink Palace Casino Night fundraiser.

The event is slated for 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at the Soiree Event Gallery at 2132 Lorna Ridge Lane in Hoover.

The Las Vegas-themed evening will feature live music, a silent auction and charity casino gaming. The casino games will include blackjack, slots and roulette, but no prior experience with casino games is necessary, said Beth Davis, president and CEO of the foundation.

“Whether you know the rules of the game or not, everyone can go all in for breast cancer research,” Davis said. “Our dealers will guide anyone through who wants to try their luck at the tables.”

Tickets cost $100 and include $500 in charity gaming money, hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and a chance to win door prizes.

Music will be provided by the II Da Maxx band.

Silent auction options will include a wide variety of items donated by local businesses, including vacation packages, luxury goods and an autographed electric guitar signed by Taylor Swift, Adele, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus, Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Rodrigo.

Individuals do not have to be present at the event to participate in the silent auction.

All profits from the event will go to support breast cancer research in Alabama.

Last year’s Pink Palace Casino Night attracted more than 200 people and raised more than $130,000, organizers said.

Since 1996, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama has invested more

than $17 million in Alabama-based breast cancer research, fueling breakthroughs to improve detection, treatment and prevention of the disease.

“Year after year, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama stands ready to fund urgent research leading toward a future free from the effects of cancer,”

Davis said. “Almost everyone has a loved one affected by breast cancer. Pink Palace Casino Night is a fun but impactful avenue to provide hope to those who are affected.”

While all the research funding stays in

Alabama, the impact of the research is worldwide.

Presenting sponsors for Pink Palace Casino Night include Tameron Honda, Hyundai, Renasant Bank, the Luther Giving Fund and the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

For tickets, silent auction information and full event details, visit pinkpalacecasinonight. com or call 205-413-4600.

For more information about the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, visit bcrfa.org.

Web: bcrfa.org

•

Grace under pressure: Elaina Burt’s journey to the Miss Alabama stage

By APRIL COFFEY

When the Miss Alabama competition is held this summer, one first-time contestant from Hoover will step onto the stage carrying both a lifelong passion and a deeply personal promise.

For Elaina Burt, who is serving as Miss Jefferson County, the competition represents far more than a crown — it is a culmination of purpose, preparation and perseverance.

Burt, a Briarwood Christian School graduate from Riverchase who is now a sophomore at the University of Alabama, is studying public relations with a minor in entrepreneurship on the pre-law track. She is also the founder of Charlie’s Chance, a nonprofit inspired by her late cousin, who struggled with epilepsy.

“I founded Charlie’s Chance out of what is a promise to her to continue that legacy and continue fighting,” Burt said. Through her signature fundraiser, Wings of Hope, Burt has raised more than $150,000 for the Epilepsy Foundation.

Burt’s pageant journey within the Miss America organization began in 2022, when she was crowned Miss Jefferson County’s Teen. Then in 2023, she was crowned Miss Alabama’s Teen.

“I have seen such exponential personal development, and it has paid for my education,” Burt said. “I will graduate completely debt free, and as a 20-year-old woman, that’s the most empowering thing that I can think of.”

On the Miss Alabama stage, Burt will perform a classical ballet en pointe to a medley from the Broadway musical “Oklahoma!” — a piece she calls the “cultivation of my dance career since I was 2 years old.”

Though she admits a “fear of the unknown” during the weeklong competition, Burt remains grounded in preparation. “When you really prepare, at the time you can enjoy the moment,” she said. “I am just going to have the time of my life.”

After several days of preliminary competition beginning June 3, the Miss Alabama pageant will culminate in the crowning of the winner on Saturday, June 6, at the Wright Center at Samford University.

SPOTLIGHT

Dancers from the

perform at a 24

Young Artist Space dance studio aims to teach identity, artistry

By APRIL COFFEY

Alli Neeley started dancing at the age of 2, has been teaching dance since she was 13 and has been choreographing since she was 17.

But in April 2024, she decided to open her own dance studio so she could create her own vision of what a studio should look like. She opened Young Artist Space at 5510 U.S. 280 East in the Greystone Center next to The Village at Lee Branch.

“We keep a really positive environment,” Neeley said. “All of our staff is very invested in our dancers. We pour into their training as much as we can. Building relationships with these children and helping them succeed doing what they love is what it is truly all about. I wanted to give them a space [where] they could do that and keep the joy while doing it.”

Neeley also strives to use the studio as a way to share the love of God with girls.

“First and foremost, I try to instill that your identity is always first found in Christ and not just being a dancer,” she said. “Secondly, I really want to instill confidence in these young girls. Being confident as a dancer is huge and will help these girls succeed at their craft. The last thing I really focus on instilling in our girls is their artistry. I want them to find who they are as dancers, push their creativity and make this art form their own.”

The studio is open to girls ages 2-19 and offers ballet, pointe, tap, hip-hop, contemporary, jazz, jazz funk, lyrical, tricks and convention readiness. Enrollment is growing, and Neeley hopes to expand her space in the near future.

For more information, go to yasdance.com.

Young Artist Space

Seven competition at the BirminghamJefferson Convention Complex in Birmingham in December 2025.

Photo courtesy of Young Artist Space.

Elaina Burt