Transition of power
By JON ANDERSON
Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis is slated
By KELLI S. HEWETT
When her 80th birthday rolled around, Nancy Kamm of Hoover decided the milestone called for something big — a decision that shocked nearly everyone but her immediate family. So she started training to hike England’s 84-mile ancient fort,
Hadrian’s Wall.
Soldiers of the Roman Empire spent a decade building the fortress for protection. Now mostly in ruins, the wall — which is 80 Roman miles long — is popular with archaeologists and hikers. For decades, Nancy, who lives at Galleria Woods Senior Living community in
Hoover, had wanted to make an extended visit there.
“I thought, ‘You’ve got to have something to look forward to,’” she said.
“I’ve always wanted to do Hadrian’s Wall.
Nick Derzis, the mayor-elect for the city of Hoover talks with departing Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Cornett and Public Works Director Jason Franklin before a Hoover City Council meeting on Aug. 8. Photo by Frank Couch.
Hoover resident Nancy Kamm is putting her best foot forward in her 80s,
Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
When it comes to your care, connection matters. Baptist Health Medical Group is a comprehensive network of primary and specialty care providers — part of the broader Baptist Health system advancing care across Central Alabama. With more than 60 locations, our physicians deliver complete, coordinated care close to home. From annual checkups to women’s health and heart care, we bring everything together with you at the center. One for you. One for all. BaptistHealthAL.com/MedicalGroup
Editor’s Note By Jon Anderson
In the 26 years I’ve been covering Hoover as a reporter or editor, I’ve had the opportunity to cover five mayors and eight school superintendents during their terms (counting two interim superintendents).
In one more month, I’ll start covering my sixth Hoover mayor. This month, in our lead cover story, I share how Mayor-elect Nick Derzis is preparing to take on his new role after serving 20 years as police chief and some of the primary topics his transition team is addressing. It’ll be interesting to see what kinds of changes he and a new City Council will make.
resident who for her 80th birthday decided to take a hike on an 84-mile ancient English fort. Kamm sounds like quite an adventurous character and I bet she has more tales to tell.
Jordyn Davis shares some Halloween activities happening around town and we’ve got the rundown on some non-Halloween events as well.
Enjoy reading as the leaves change their colors around us.
In this edition, Kelli Hewett also introduces us to Nancy Kamm, a Hoover
For advertising, contact: dan@starnesmedia.com
Please submit all articles, information and photos to: janderson@starnesmedia.com
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Legals: Hoover Sun is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. Hoover Sun is designed to inform the Hoover community of area school, family and community events. Information in Hoover Sun is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of Hoover Sun We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.
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.
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PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER
Hoover CFO Cornett coming to Mountain Brook
By JON ANDERSON
The city of Hoover’s chief financial officer, Jennifer Cornett, is leaving Hoover to take a job as the assistant city manager and finance director for the city of Mountain Brook.
Cornett said she will be succeeding Steve Boone, who has served as Mountain Brook’s assistant city manager and finance director for 29 years and is moving up to become the city manager in December.
Her last day with the city of Hoover is Oct. 1, she said.
Cornett has been with Hoover for less than two years, coming on board with the city in late 2023. She inherited a Finance Department with a multitude of problems, including unbalanced transactions, unreconciled accounts, delayed financial reports, IRS penalties and missing financial records, according to a review by the financial investigative firm Kroll.
Cornett said that, when she was hired, she knew there were shortcomings in the department and some tension because of the way her predecessor left, but she didn’t know the extent of the problems or the degree of the broken relationships and broken trust between the city’s elected officials.
Once she got in place and began to realize the scope of the problems, she recommended hiring Kroll to make sure there was no fraud, she said. Kroll found no evidence of fraud, malfeasance or asset misappropriation but documented the other problems.
Cornett said that every problem referenced in the Kroll report has been addressed and rectified, and she feels the city is in a good position to turn over the finances to someone else’s control.
Accounts have been reconciled, issues with the IRS have been worked out, financial policies have been firmed up in writing, additional finance staff have been hired and the staff members have been
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undergoing training, Cornett said.
“There’s a lot of great people who work at the city,” she said. “These are folks that need training; they need help; they need reinforcements; they need encouragement.”
This election season has been hard for city employees, especially the finance staff, because they’ve been dragged through the mud over and over, Cornett said.
“They worked their butts off to try to help fix things, and they were successful at fixing those things,” she said. “You don’t feel like there’s public appreciation for it. They feel beaten up. That’s hard.”
There’s always room for improvement and smarter ways to do things, but the city’s financial house is back in order, she said.
For her, the move to Mountain Brook is a good opportunity, she said, because it allows her a chance to serve in the city where she lives and gives her an opportunity to work with and learn from Boone, whom she said is “one of the best of the best.”
Plus, there’s a lot of stability in the leadership in Mountain Brook, and this also gives her a chance to stretch her management skills as an assistant city manager, she said.
“It’s kind of like a perfect situation if there is one,” Cornett said. “I am really excited about this opportunity. ... It’s an opportunity for me to really grow.”
Mayor-elect Nick Derzis and some current and incoming City Council members have been calling for a state audit of Hoover’s finances, but Cornett said she thinks it’s unnecessary.
“I thought that was just political showboating,” she said. “I’ve never heard of a city asking the state to come in and look at the books unless they’ve found something like Homewood did and self-reported. ... I think it would be a terrible idea, ... but that’s going to be a decision for the governing body to make.”
Jennifer Cornett, the chief financial officer for the city of Hoover talks to the Hoover City Council about her Oct. 1 departure from the city on Aug. 8 at Hoover City Hall. Photo by Frank Couch.
Mayor’s Minute
By Frank V. Brocato
In 1973, I walked into the Hoover Volunteer Fire Department, hoping one day to earn a job as a firefighter. Little did I know I had just stepped into a small department serving a young, newly incorporated city.
For the next 42 years, I had the honor of working for the Hoover Fire Department. In 1974, I was chosen to attend the second paramedic class in Birmingham, becoming Hoover’s very first paramedic.
Frank V. Brocato
As the city grew, I had the privilege of growing alongside it. Whenever Hoover annexed a new area, fire Chief Tom Bradley often called on me to help find a spot for a temporary fire station. A handful of us were truly on the ground floor of shaping a new city — and along the way, I even had the joy of delivering a few babies.
In 2015, I retired from the Fire Department after more than four decades of service. Soon after, I ran for mayor, and in November 2016, I was elected. For the past nine years, I have had the great honor of serving as your mayor. It has been the hardest job I’ve ever had — but also the most rewarding. We faced real challenges — social unrest, the uncertainty of COVID-19 and the pressures of a changing economy. Yet through it all, Hoover’s resilience carried us forward.
Today, as I prepare to step aside, I am proud of the city we leave behind. Our reserves have grown from $30 million to nearly $90 million. Our schools rank among the best in Alabama. Both our police and fire departments are nationally accredited, with our Fire Department earning a Class 1 rating. We open a new business nearly every nine days.
Highway 280 has become a thriving high-tech corridor. A new interchange at I-459 and Shades Crest Road is on the way. We revitalized the Hoover Met, secured the SEC Baseball Tournament and built a $90 million sports tourism industry that has put Hoover on the map nationwide.
Just recently, U.S. News & World Report named Hoover the top city in Alabama and the 25th-best city in the country.
From firefighter to mayor, I have been blessed with two incredible opportunities to serve. Thank you, Hoover, for entrusting me with them. The city has blessed the Brocato family in more ways than we can count, and for that, we are forever grateful.
Fall into a Stronger You
Leaves should fall, not you! Whether it’s yard work, holiday prep, or everyday activities, our physical therapists will help you keep your balance, stay healthy, and spend more time with the people who matter most.
Visit TherapySouth and keep moving strong all season long! Scan the QR code or give us a call to schedule an appointment. therapysouth.com
HOOVER HWY 150 (205) 987-6501 3421 South Shades Crest Rd., Ste. 107 Hoover, AL 35244 Ryan Richardson, Clinic Director
SCHOOLHOUSE
Hoover hosts back-to-back marching band showcases
By MALIA RIGGS
Music, precision and school spirit will take center stage in Hoover this October as the city and local high schools prepare to host two major marching band events, drawing talented performers and enthusiastic fans from across the state – the first hosted by Hoover High, and then a week later, by Spain Park High.
The month kicks off with the Hoover Invitational Marching Festival on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium at 100 Ben Chapman Drive. Admission is $13 for adults, while children 5 and under get in free.
First held in 1978, the festival is the longest-running event at the Met and has grown into a staple of the fall marching season, according to the Hoover High School Band website. Over the years, the Hoover Invitational Marching Festival has welcomed hundreds of high school bands, becoming known for its competitive spirit and high-quality performances.
Its long history has helped establish Hoover as a central hub for marching band excellence in Alabama, drawing fans and participants year after year.
Bands from across the region will showcase their hard work in front of judging panels, scoring in areas such as music, visual performance and general effect. Bands, auxiliaries, percussion sections and drum majors will all receive ratings ranging from superior to fair, with the option for groups to enter for ratings or comments only.
Trophies and medals will be awarded to ensembles and individuals earning superior ratings, while “Best in Class” trophies will go to the top percussion, drum major, color guard, majorette and dance line in each class.
Additional awards will also be awarded for
first, second and third place trophies based on total scores within each class.
The all-day format gives fans the opportunity to hear a wide variety of marching bands and auxiliaries from all over the state, while also having stadium seating and multiple concession options.
Judges for this year’s competition will be:
► Music Ensemble: Greg Snyder, Nashville
► Music Individual: Michael Roy, Foley High School
► Visual Ensemble: Reggie Tolbert, Haleyville High School (Retired)
► Visual Individual: David Raney, Sparkman High School (Retired)
► Music General Effect: Craig Aarhus, Mississippi State University
► Visual General Effect: Cara Morantz, University of Alabama at Birmingham
► Percussion: Joe Fant, Fairhope
► Color Guard: Adrian Fitchpatrick, Hoover High School
► Dance/Majorette: Charity Jones, Vestavia Hills High School
► Drum Major: Travis Bender, Oak Mountain High School
Just a week later, the spotlight shifts to Spain Park High School, where the Alabama Marching Band Championship for 3A, 4A and 5A bands will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 4700 Jaguar Drive.
This annual event celebrates school spirit and musical excellence, with a full day of performances from high school bands across the state.
Fans can look forward to marching, music and the excitement of competition as schools vie for top honors.
General admission is $15, while children 5 and younger get in free. Concessions will be available throughout the event, and parking is free, with designated handicap parking at the stadium.
Both events highlight Hoover’s role as a hub for high school marching bands and offer the community a chance to support young musicians and performers. Whether it’s the longstanding tradition of the Hoover Invitational or the statewide showcase of the Alabama Marching Band Championship, October promises to be filled with music, movement and memorable performances.
Members of the Hoover High School band perform during a football game between Hoover and Spain Park high schools on Aug. 29. Photo by Barry Stephenson.
BUSINESS
Business Buzz
COMING SOON
Vecchia Gelato & Café is planned to open in the former location of Moss Rock Tacos and Tequila at 610 Preserve Parkway in The Preserve community. It’s a new eatery by Benard and Brianna Tamburello and will feature gelato, Italian coffees, pastries, sparkling spritzes and Italian street foods such as porchetta sandwiches, focaccia flatbreads and golden arancini.
No specific opening date has been announced, but the Tamburellos say it will be “soon.” 205-783-1130, vecchiagelatocafe.com
RELOCATION
Sparrow Health & Performance, a medical clinic currently at 2807 Greystone Commercial Blvd., Suite 32, is relocating to a larger 7,000-square-foot location in The Village at Lee Branch off U.S. 280 and plans to open there by the end of the year. The clinic combines traditional medical expertise with functional and regen-
erative therapies aimed at addressing the root causes of illness and promoting long-term wellness. The new clinic will offer 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 will feature hyperbaric oxygen therapy, hydrogen treatments, infrared sauna, halotherapy and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. 205-783-1020, sparrowclinic.com
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Capstone Building Corp., headquartered at 1200 Corporate Parkway, Suite 350, in Meadow Brook Corporate Park, has completed construction of a 273-unit apartment complex called Bartley Lofts in downtown Huntsville and an 86-unit apartment complex in Pensacola called Casara Pensacola. The $71 million Bartley Lofts development covers 344,000 square feet in a six-story, wrap-style building with structured parking and ground-level retail. The community offers a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom residences with 13 distinct floor plans, plus a resort-style pool with heated spa and outdoor kitchens, a private dining room with entertainment space, coworking lounge, yoga and strength training studio, pet spa, electric vehicle chargers and a 24-hour fitness center. The developers are Doradus Partners and RCP Companies. The Casara Pensacola complex covers 106,749 square feet and includes units with one to three bedrooms. The developer is Interlude Residential. 205-803-5226, capstonebuilding.com
PERSONNEL
RealtySouth has added Cory Pruitt (205-306-6111), Krysten Files (214-250-7865), Ashleigh Jones (334220-9757) and Sherrell Roberson (205-919-0115) to its
Inverness office at 109 Inverness Plaza. 205-991-6565, realtysouth.com
ANNIVERSARY
Mr. P’s Butcher Shop & Deli at 813 Shades Crest Road on Sept. 5 celebrated its 50th anniversary. The business was founded by Charles Pilleteri and sells meats, cheese, hoagie buns, seasonings, marinades, spices, deli sandwiches, beer, wine and other drinks. 205-823-6136, mrpdeli.com
CLOSING
East 59 Café plans to close its location at the Hoover Library Plaza at 200 Municipal Drive on Oct. 24. Until then, a limited selection of the menu will be available. The other location at 701 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 103, in The Village at Lee Branch will remain open, and the Hoover Public Library plans to continue to partner with the café to offer programs and a remote book locker at that location. Library officials also said they hope to find a new partner for the café space in the coming months.
205-518-6264, east59.net
►
Home & Garden Fall Guide
Discover local businesses that specialize in keeping your home and garden at their best
There’s lots of landscapers in business, but few measure up to Gardner Landscaping in Birmingham.
The company’s experts, all licensed and insured, have provided top-quality residential and commercial service since 2006.
“We have the people and resources to get your project done in a timely manner,” owner Grant Gardner said.
The fall is a great time for Gardner Landscaping to install more shade trees in your yard.
Adding shade trees offers greater privacy and lovely fall colors, as well as allowing greater energy conservation in homes and requiring less irrigation to retain ground moisture.
Gardner Landscaping can also plant beautiful hedges along your lot lines to cancel road noise, provide privacy year round and hold moisture. The hedges clearly mark the lot lines and provide a better solution than wooden fences, which don’t last as long.
The creative use of trees and shrubs — as well as plants and flowers — will enhance the beauty and value of any property.
Gardner Landscaping will create a customized plan for your yard based on your preferences, as well as sun exposure, soil type and landscape slope.
In addition, the company is “very good at building outdoor play and entertainment areas,” Grant says.
The team stays abreast of the latest
Experience outstanding service and custom window coverings at Budget Blinds
Our communities benefit greatly when residents shop local as much as they can and support their small businesses. This is especially true when a business is family-owned and based in rocksolid values, like Budget Blinds of Birmingham, which is located in Vestavia Hills.
BUDGET BLINDS ► 2130 Columbiana Road ► 205-824-3300 ► budgetblinds.com/birmingham
Shutters, solar shades and woven wood products are among the top sellers at Budget Blinds. You can now take advantage of a new energy tax credit applicable to the purchase of plantation shutters where you can file for 30% off on your income taxes (up to $1,200).
Steve and Michelle Thackerson own and operate Budget Blinds. A married couple who live and work in Vestavia Hills, they have been serving their customers faithfully for over 30 years.
An unwavering commitment to delivering the finest customer service is at the heart of the Thackersons’ business philosophy. “We wouldn’t sell anything to you that we wouldn’t put into our own homes,” Steve says.
The couple’s family-oriented approach extends to their employees, all of whom have worked at the shop at least 12 years.
At Budget Blinds, which offers all types of custom window coverings, the caring, highly trained personnel take the time to understand their customers and to provide them with top-quality products that fit their lifestyles.
And when you call the Budget Blinds location in Vestavia Hills to get information or to schedule an appointment, you speak to someone in the local office – not a person in a faraway call center.
Large chain stores simply can’t replicate that sort of personalized service and customer experience.
In addition, all window coverings are custom made to fit each home, and the local employees of Budget Blinds do all of the in-home measuring and installation. “Anything that’s purchased from us, we’ll custom measure your windows and professionally install them,” Steve says.
Motorization and cordless options for window coverings also remain popular. Motorized options allow you to control blinds, shutters, solar shades and draperies from anywhere, and can be used with your home’s automation system. “We can usually tie our product into any system you might have,” Steve says.
Customers also benefit from the buying power of Budget Blinds, the world’s largest retailer of custom window coverings.
“Budget Blinds has huge national volume, so we get exclusive warranties that no one else can offer,” Steve says. “We get the same products as our competitors, but we get better pricing and warranties because we’re the world’s largest retailer of custom window coverings.
Budget Blinds has exclusive warranties given by the manufacturers to Budget Blinds customers only.
“Our prices are competitive, and we offer a onetime free replacement on all products for five years, and on select products for a lifetime,” Steve says. “That’s just an unheard-of warranty in any industry.”
Budget Blinds is more than just a business for the Thackersons. It’s a reflection of who they are – a family that works together, cares about their community and strives to provide the best service possible.
Request a free in-home consultation or visit the Budget Blinds showroom Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
HOME & GARDEN
Discover Carefree Living at Arise Knox Square for 55+
Many
that let them stay independent and pursue interests without the burden of home upkeep.
Arise Knox Square in Hoover, completed in March 2025, is designed for active adults 55+ who want easy, luxurious living in Birmingham. The community offers apartment homes and cottages, resort-style amenities, and direct access to The Village at Knox Square for restaurants, services and shopping.
It’s also a warm, social environment.
Resident Beth Kern downsized and sold her home before moving into an apartment at Arise Knox Square.
“We don’t have to do any of that here,” she said of home maintenance. “It’s much easier.”
The community has exceeded her expectations. “I’ve met so many great people. It’s like one big family. I just wanted to start over, and I was able to do that here.”
Lifestyle programming is a central part of life at Arise. Residents enjoy classes, social events and outings to places such as the Birmingham Museum of Art and Irondale Café. Betsy Settle, the Lifestyle Concierge, organizes programs while also encouraging residents to create their own groups, such as writing or quilting clubs.
“We always have something to do,” Beth said. “Betsy does such a good job planning great activities.”
Residents enjoying a crafting event.
Transforming homes with custom storage solutions
Since 1982, Closets by Design has built a reputation for integrity and customer satisfaction. From noobligation in-home consultations to custom designs and quality construction, their products offer value and function.
Closets by Design simplifies life by designing, building and installing custom closets, garage cabinets, home offices, laundries, pantries, wardrobe mirror doors and more — all floor-based and adjustable. With a wide selection of finishes, accessories and hardware, customers get the customized look they’ve always wanted.
They offer three closet system choices, each maximizing space and creating organization for clothes and beyond.
To learn more about Arise Knox Square or to schedule a tour, call or stop by today! Be sure to come out to the Fall Festival family event on Oct. 23 from 4 to 7 p.m.
“We build each closet with the customer in mind,” General Manager Tyree Melton said. “We can help customers take their garage a step further and transform it into a workshop, garden center or arts and crafts room, all with plenty of storage.”
Melton said his favorite product is the home office system, “because
that is where you create, work and communicate. In this digital age, your home workspace is fast becoming one more refuge in your home sanctuary.”
For small spaces, Closets by Design offers the foldaway designbed™ system — customizable, multi-functional and ideal for saving space. Pantries are another popular solution, with easy-toreach shelves, long and short storage, and options to complement laundry rooms.
Garage systems cut clutter dramatically, with counter and storage space for hobbies from gardening to woodworking. Mudrooms can also be customized with shelves, drawers, hooks and baskets to help families stay organized.
“I love giving our customers the highest level of service,” Melton said. “Helping them bring their dream closet to life.”
Reliable home repairs and maintenance done right
If your home needs routine maintenance or minor repairs, you may think you can do it yourself and save money.
However, even if you believe you have the right skills and tools to do a job, it will likely take you a lot longer than it should, because you don’t do home repairs every day.
Most home projects, even small handyman jobs, are better left to the experienced professionals at One Man & A Toolbox.
One Man & A Toolbox can handle any small project, including minor carpentry, plumbing and electrical fixes. They can also do painting, caulking, shelving and more.
“Any odd jobs around your home, we’ll get them done right the first time,” said owner Jay Moss.
Moss and company can also do many other special tasks, like putting up decorations or assembling a swing set.
“No matter how crazy you think the task is, call us and we’ll try to figure it out,” Moss said.
One Man & A Toolbox can also tackle
ONE MAN & A TOOLBOX ► 205-823-2111 ► oneman-toolbox.com
larger home improvement projects. Moss warns homeowners against calling unlicensed, uninsured repairmen from online. Many will ask for money to buy materials before starting and won’t return or won’t be available for warranty issues that arise after the job.
One Man & A Toolbox has skilled, reliable employees who are licensed, insured and bonded.
EVENTS
Halloween in Hoover
How and where to find the best fall festivities this year
By JORDYN DAVIS
Fall in Hoover means more than cooler temperatures — it brings a season of community traditions that neighbors look forward to year after year. From trick-or-treat trails to neighborhood festivals, the city’s calendar fills with events designed for families to gather, celebrate and make memories together.
Whether you’re looking for candy, costumes or crafts, Hoover offers something for everyone. Local churches, schools and businesses open their doors for fun, while neighborhood groups and nonprofits raise funds through rides, markets and festivals. It’s a season of community spirit — and plenty of treats.
SPOOKY FUN
► Trunk or Treat at the Hoover YMCA: Join Hoover’s YMCA for their annual trunk-ortreat event on Thursday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Expect more than 40 trunks decorated with candy filled to the brim. There will also be a bounce house and carnival-style games and food.
► Hoover Public Library’s “Good to be Bad” Halloween Event: Families can enjoy a Halloween party at the Hoover Public Library on Friday, Oct. 17, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring your best costume and take a walk on the wild side with this “Wicked” themed event.
► Star Lake Witches Ride in Green Valley: Take part in this event that directly gives back to the community on Thursday, Oct. 19, at 5:45 p.m. This haunting witch ride donates proceeds to the Green Valley Church food pantry and helps compensate the Hoover Police Department for their presence in assisting routes. Check the event out on Facebook for more details.
► Spookfest at Hoover Met Complex: The Hoover Metropolitan Complex is hosting a free trick-or-treating event on Oct. 30 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Families can look forward to local food trucks, giveaways, music and more. “Beetlejuice” on the big screen at the Met at 7 p.m.
LOCAL GOODIES IN HOOVER
► Nana Bakes at 3439 Lorna Road is a bakery that offers warm fall treats. You can choose from a variety of gourmet cobblers, pies, cupcakes and gooey dessert bowls and jars.
► Kilwin’s Ice Cream at 5220 Peridot Place, Suite 100, in Stadium Trace Village recently updated its menu to include fall goodies such as caramel apple ice cream, pecan nut caramels, caramel corn and more. Kilwin’s is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
► The 62nd Annual Bluff Park Art Show will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. this year and will feature home decor and art from 123 artists across the country. Food trucks are available, too.
► Dear Prudence has just dropped its fall boutique line featuring new dresses, sweaters and denim. Dear Prudence is at 5874 Elsie Road and is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
► Birmingham Spook-tacular Craft and Vendor Market will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday, Oct. 26, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Riverchase Galleria. This event will feature local vendors, spooky treats and fall finds for seasonal celebrations.
COSTUMES GALORE
Discover places to find — or create — the
perfect Halloween costume.
► Spirit Halloween is on Creekside Avenue in the Patton Creek shopping center and is an annual pop-up shop that has hundreds of costumes each year. From dead cheerleaders to your favorite cartoon character, Spirit has everything you need to make it a great Halloween.
► Bluff Park Vintage is another great option for thrifting fall decor and scoring on some unique costumes.
► Chains such as Hobby Lobby, Target and Walmart also have costumes for a reasonable price.
TRICK OR TREAT HEADQUARTERS
Bring the kids to some of the locals’ picks for “best candy” and “best decorated” neighborhoods.
► Bluff Park Halloween Trail: Decorated trail near the playground and pool in Bluff Park
► The Preserve: A large, active neighborhood with many trick-or-treaters and nearby dining options
► Ross Bridge: Noted for festive decorations, walkable streets and friendly locals
► Lake Cyrus: A welcoming, large neighborhood. Bring a sturdy bag for lots of candy.
► Green Valley: Known for its Trickor-Treat Trail, police-supported safety and a witches' ride.
BEYOND THE BLOCK
► Head south into Pelham to experience the horrors of the Warehouse 31 haunted house at
3150 Lee Street from Sept. 26 to Nov. 1. Work your way through nearly 30,000 square feet of attractions, including Rigamortis, a former butcher shop that long ago closed but left behind terrors, and a 3D Experience that includes 3D artwork and disorienting puzzles. There’s also an escape room.
► Atrox Factory in Leeds is a popular haunted house attraction, known for being the “largest indoor haunted attraction in the Southeast.” The haunted walkthrough opens on Friday, Oct. 3.
► Conjure Haunted Attraction is Birmingham’s newest haunted house, located downtown. Along with a frightful walk-through, the warehouse also features a Halloween supply shop and monthly rave events.
► The Great Pumpkin Patch in Hayden will be open through Nov. 2. Families can enjoy hayrides, inflatables, a petting zoo, live entertainment and a variety of food and crafts.
► Helena Hollow runs Oct. 3-31 and offers more than 25 farm activities along with 6 acres of pumpkin picking.
► Old Baker Farm, located in Shelby County, has become a family tradition for those in the Hoover/280 area. The farm has over 200 years of experience and remains a traditional family-run farm with its annual seasonal events enjoyed by many. The pumpkin patch will open Sunday, Sept. 28. It will host a Festival Weekend on Oct. 25 with vendors, live music and an 1800s-inspired carnival. Learn more at oldbakerfarm.com/pages/upcoming-events.
FUN FOR THE KIDDOS
► Trunk or Treat at Hunter Street Baptist Church is back for its annual Trunk-or-Treat event on Oct. 27 from 4 to 6 p.m. Show up in your best kid-friendly costume, bring the kids and enjoy treats and family-oriented activities. Registration is not required but is encouraged at hunterstreet.org/trunk-or-treat.
► Hoots and Hallows at the Birmingham Zoo is an annual celebration takes place at the Birmingham Zoo on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This daytime event features candy and magical moments with the beloved wildlife at the zoo.
► There’s a Family Fall Hoedown at the Hoover Public Library on Wednesday, Oct. 17, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. It’s a family dance party in the Youth Program Room.
HIDDEN GEMS
► Taste of Hoover will take place Thursday, Oct. 9, at Aldridge Gardens and will celebrate a variety of culinary food styles throughout the city. Spend the evening sampling dishes from Hoover’s local food scene and listening to live entertainment.
► Moss Rock Festival is a fall festival in the front parking lot of Hoover Metropolitan Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Expect special features such as art and design vendors, a beer garden, cafe, planet projects and special exhibits.
Above left: Participants in the 2024 Star Lake Witches Ride. Photo courtesy of Star Lake Witches Ride. Above right: Young people go trick-or-treating at the Spookfest event at the Hoover RV Park in October 2023. Photo courtesy of Hoover Metropolitan Complex. Below left: Darth Vader and other Star Wars characters check out some books at the Hoover Public Library. Below right: Hoover Public Library Director Amanda Borden. The library is putting on a “Wicked”-themed “Good to be Bad” event for Halloween this year. Photos courtesy of the Hoover Public Library.
Taste of Hoover returns for 15th year at Aldridge Gardens
.By MALIA RIGGS
Taste of Hoover is back for its 15th year, offering an evening filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks and a vibrant sense of community. Scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover, the event offers guests the chance to sample flavors from more than 40 local restaurants, caterers and beverage providers, all set against the scenic backdrop of the gardens.
“Taste of Hoover is an important community event because it brings people together in a way that celebrates the best of what the city has to offer — food, culture and connection,” said Kristen Valentine, events coordinator for Aldridge Gardens.
“With every step, you're met with new flavors to sample — from savory to sweet — and sips of wine, beer and cocktails to match. We’ll have music and are excited to bring back the roaming photo booth, which was a huge hit at last year’s event. We have a couple of exciting new changes that we’ll be bringing in this year,” Valentine said.
Guests must purchase tickets in advance online. Parking will be available at Aldridge Gardens, with overflow parking and a complimentary shuttle service running from Riverchase Crossings Shopping Center. Upon arrival, attendees will check in at the will-call area before enjoying an evening of sampling, music and community spirit.
The event is designed to showcase the creativity and diversity of Hoover’s culinary scene while offering guests an opportunity to connect with local businesses and neighbors alike. Valentine stated that the evening offers more than just food and drink sampling — it’s a celebration of what makes Hoover so unique.
“Hosted in the beautiful setting of Aldridge Gardens, it’s more than just a tasting event; it’s a gathering that highlights the diversity and talent of Hoover’s culinary scene, from beloved local restaurants to hidden gems and creative caterers. It also supports the local economy by spotlighting small businesses and giving them a platform to share their flavors and stories with the community,” Valentine said.
The event will feature more than 40 carefully selected restaurants, caterers and beverage
The annual Taste of Hoover returns to Aldridge Gardens this year on Thursday, Oct. 9. Patrons can enjoy food and beverages from more than 40 local restaurants, caterers and beverage providers. Staff photo.
providers, such
According to Valentine, each year the goal is to create a balanced mix of vendors that reflects both established favorites and fresh new additions to Hoover’s food and beverage landscape.
“Each year, we strive to curate a diverse lineup of food and beverage providers that truly showcases the flavor, creativity and
culture that Hoover has to offer,” Valentine said. “From longtime local favorites to exciting newcomers, there's something for everyone to enjoy.”
First-time visitors can expect a lively, welcoming atmosphere where neighbors and newcomers alike can come together to enjoy Hoover’s culinary diversity.
“This year marks the 15th annual Taste of Hoover. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new, discover local favorites and meet new people,” Valentine said.
as Tacos De Azul at Brock’s Gap Brewing, Saw’s BBQ Hoover, Big Whiskey’s, East 59 Cafe, Leiper’s Fork Bourbon, and Farm Bowl + Juice Co., among others.
SPORTS
Brock Bradley spearheads Jags’ resurgence Staying true to his word
By KYLE PARMLEY
When Tim Vakakes was hired as the head football coach at Spain Park High School in late 2021, Brock Bradley was in eighth grade.
Bradley had ambitions to not only become the Spain Park quarterback one day, but to make his mark.
Upon the new head coach meeting the student-athlete who would do just that in a couple years’ time, Bradley had a message for the program’s new coach that gave insight into a maturity beyond his years.
Vakakes recalled, “When I first met him in eighth grade, he said, ‘Coach, I want to change this place with you. When I leave, I want it to be a different Spain Park football program.’”
Even at that age, Bradley had visions of resurrecting Spain Park football, a program that had failed to make the playoffs four straight years at the time.
Bradley has delivered on his mission, leading Spain Park to its first unbeaten regular season in program history in 2024 and an appearance in the Class 6A quarterfinals. He’s now looking to finish his career on a high note as he leads the Jags through his senior season.
LEADING THE ASCENT
Jags fans got a glimpse of what was coming toward the end of the 2022 season, as Bradley earned some playing time in the final few games of his freshman season.
Bradley became the full-time starter as a sophomore, throwing for 1,800 yards and 22 touchdowns and leading the Jags to a 7-3 record.
He took the next step as a junior, winning the Under the Lights All-South Metro Player of the Year honor after throwing for 2,667 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, adding six rushing touchdowns as well.
“I was definitely talented enough to make plays. And you go back and watch the film, I did make a lot of plays as a freshman,” Bradley said. “But being a three-year starter, the game moves at a much slower pace mentally for me.”
This year, the Jags’ offense has retooled around Bradley. The Spain Park offense lost the majority of its production from last fall and Bradley has been tasked with leading a unit with plenty of new faces.
Vakakes has also noticed how much the game has seemed to slow down for Bradley, given all his experience. The coach also noted how nice it is to have his familiar signal caller at the forefront of this year’s new-look offense.
“The main constant, the common denominator, is Brock,” Vakakes said. “He’s going to keep us in it and give us a chance every week.”
ACHIEVING GOALS
Brock Bradley has long had dreams beyond his high school playing days as well. As long as he can remember, playing college football at a high level has been something he has strived toward.
Bradley will be the second quarterback in recent years to follow the path of Birmingham-metro high school standout to the Clemson University quarterback room. Christopher Vizzina, who started for four years just down the road at Briarwood Christian School, is currently Clemson’s second-string quarterback.
Getting the offer from Clemson cemented
Above: Spain Park quarterback Brock Bradley (5) rolls out with Hoover defensive end Justyn Hartley (0) in pursuit during a game between Hoover High School and Spain Park on Aug. 29 at Spain Park High School. Photo by Barry Stephenson.
Right: Spain Park’s Brock Bradley, the 2024 Under the Lights All-South Metro Player of the Year, returns for his senior season. He is shown at a preseason photo shoot at Heardmont Park on July 10. Photo by Todd Lester.
Bradley’s future plans.
“I'm super blessed to be in this position, and to finally get that on paper was honestly a pretty special moment for me and my family,” he said.
His family has been a key part of his journey along the way as well. Vakakes runs a program at Spain Park dedicated to inspiring, molding and building character among the players he gets the opportunity to coach.
But when those traits begin even before players get to the high school program, it makes a coach’s job that much more enjoyable.
“They’re really, really good people,” Vakakes said of Bradley’s parents, Scott and Kathy. “He’s not a good kid because we’ve been coaching him. He’s a good kid because of how he’s been raised.”
LEAVING A LEGACY
On the field, Bradley has continued to improve. He has gotten better at handling situations when the play breaks down, being able to extend plays with his feet and make throws on the run. Vakakes has noticed Bradley’s timing on his throws has gotten even more precise as he’s developed.
While the physical talent is prevalent, the intangible things Bradley brings to the table are arguably just as important and impressive.
Bradley has been forced into being more of a leader this season, with so many of the team’s surrounding skill players new to prominent roles.
“He’s a professional in a high school body,” Vakakes said. “He hates when he’s wrong. He hates when he messes up. He’s just trying to navigate the newness of the guys out there.”
Bradley will continue to those around him
to constantly improve as the 2025 season rolls along. He will be firmly planted in the conversation among Spain Park greats, even in a time that player movement has become almost normalized. Bradley planted roots and has stuck around to see the results.
“I was a Spain Park kid growing up,” he said.
“The place felt special to me. Maybe there was a better opportunity for me somewhere else, who knows? I don’t know that. But what I do know is I believe in the people at Spain Park.”
“He’ll go down as one of the best in school history. There’s been a lot of good ones here, but he’ll go down as one of the best,” Vakakes said.
SPORTS
Jags seniors determined to erase memories of last year
By KYLE PARMLEY
Cailyn Kyes, Bea Wiggins, Ja’Niyah Mosley and Mary Payton Dees put their heads together to come up with an acronym involving the word “team” that describes the 2025 Spain Park High School volleyball team.
Amidst laughter that disturbed people down the hall, they came up with a final product: Together, Energy, Aggression, Merciless.
Those four words embody what those seniors aim to bring to the table for the Jags this fall. As seniors, it’s their last opportunity to make a magical run.
They’ve seen it all in their time as varsity players. As sophomores, they made a surprise run to the state tournament. As juniors, they were crushed to be put out in the area tournament. A repeat of that won’t be acceptable this fall.
“That leaves a bad taste in my mouth and it gives us more motivation to come back and prove everyone wrong,” said Kyes, who has been a standout setter for several years. She already holds the program record for career assists, surpassing 1,887 assists in the season-opening tournament. Wherever she ends up at the end of the season will be the new mark.
“I don’t want to feel that way again,” said Wiggins, who has more than 500 career kills.
Mosley said last year’s loss left her feeling embarrassed.
Dees is new to the program, transferring to Spain Park from Beauregard for her senior season. She didn’t know what to expect coming in, but she certainly sees great potential in this group.
“As long as we play as a team and not as six individuals on the court, we’ll make it really far,” she said.
The talent is undoubtedly there for the Jags and has been on display so far this season. Spain Park
already had wins over the likes of Homewood, Hoover, Bob Jones and Oak Mountain in the early weeks of the season.
The current roster is a supreme collection of talent. The seniors have great experience while the younger players possess great ability and just need the confidence and experience to be major assets.
“We’re obviously going to have growing pains through the season,” Kyes said. “We’ve been able to work through them and talk through them this year.”
Mosley likes the progress she has seen from her team, which continues to become more mentally tough as the year goes on.
“It took time and experience to be as mentally tough as I am now,” said Mosley, noting that it will all come together for the younger players in due time.
Kyes, Wiggins and Mosley are all committed to play at the next level. Kyes has committed to Trevecca Nazarene University in the Gulf South Conference, Wiggins has committed to the University of the South (Sewanee) and Mosley will play at Bevill State Community College.
In the month of October, the Jags will have a chance to achieve everything. They have regular season matches against Pelham, Chilton County and Bob Jones and play in tournaments at Homewood and Gulf Shores.
They have a chance to make amends at the area tournament — the site where their season ended last year. If they make it past that this time around, the regional tournament and state tournament could await.
The four of them want to be together; they want to bring energy; they want to be aggressive; and they want to be merciless toward their opponents.
“After my senior season, I just want to be able to think, ‘Wow, this was a great year,’” Mosley said.
Above: Spain Park seniors Ja’Niyah Mosley (5), Cailyn Kyes (12), Mary Payton Dees (9) and Bea Wiggins (1) during a match against Helena on Sept. 11. Left: Spain Park’s Bea Wiggins (1) hits the ball. Below: Spain Park seniors Ja’Niyah Mosley and Cailyn Kyes celebrate a point against Helena. Photos courtesy of Fred Harrington.
By TIM STEPHENS
Berry Buc great Eric Kerley builds fitness career on football lessons “
Eric Kerley’s name is etched in Hoover football history. A Berry Buc standout under hall of fame coach Bob Finley, he was the last Buc to sign with an SEC program before the school transitioned into Hoover High. He is now a member of the Hoover Athletics Hall of Fame, honored for a career that helped close one era and usher in another.
Kerley still thinks often of Finley — the man whose sudden death in July 1994, just weeks before Hoover High opened, left a legacy that still defines what Hoover athletics aspire to be.
“Coach Finley was old school,” Kerley said. “He taught us how to be men, not just players.”
From Berry, Kerley went on to the University of Alabama, where he played for Gene Stallings and Mike DuBose and was a solid presence on the Tide defensive line from 1994 to 1997. After college, he spent a brief period in professional football. The experience didn’t last long, but it provided him the seed money to pursue a new dream.
“I took a step out on faith, put what little money I made playing pro into the business, and went for it,” he said.
That business became The Studio Specialized Personal Training, which has now operated for 24 years with three locations in Birmingham.
Kerley said the lessons of football — discipline, toughness and goal-setting — are the same ones he emphasizes with clients.
“Our goal is to help people live healthier, happier, longer lives,” he said. “We meet people where they are and help them get to where they want to be.”
The Studio offers one-on-one personal training, group classes and massage therapy, all designed to fit busy lives. Trainers work with clients on weight loss, stamina, diet and overall
Our goal is to help people live healthier, happier, longer lives. We meet people where they are and help them get to where they want to be.
ERIC KERLEY
”health. Sessions take place in a bright, wellequipped space with modern tools including free weights, suspension training and agility ladders.
Kerley said many of the people who walk through his doors remind him of teammates and coaches who pushed him to succeed.
“College football is a job — it’s a business — and it takes a special person to have the discipline to perform at a high level and keep up academically,” he said. “It taught us how to be gentlemen and professionals in life, and that’s carried over to everything I do.”
Though the business is based outside Hoover, Kerley’s connection to the city remains strong. His Hoover roots are recognized through his Hall of Fame honor. The legacy continues today with his son, EJ, a standout linebacker at Spain Park.
For Kerley, the drive is the same as it was on the practice fields at Berry — helping people reach their goals and discover what they can achieve.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing that happen,” he said.
Eric Kerley, Berry Buc alum and Hoover Athletics Hall of Famer, is the owner of The Studio Specialized Personal Training. With three locations, The Studio Specialized Personal Training offers one-on-one personal training, group classes and massage therapy.
Photo by Tosha Gaines.
SPORTS
Bucs, Jags look to finish strong
By KYLE PARMLEY
The second half of the high school football regular season gets crammed into the month of October, with five Fridays on the calendar for teams to either jockey for playoff position or play out the string on an ultimately disappointing campaign.
Hoover and Spain Park will look for the former to be the case, as they hope October sets them up for a strong playoff run.
HOOVER
► Oct. 3 at Oak Mountain: Hoover begins October with its third straight road game, heading to Oak Mountain. The Bucs have never lost to the Eagles in 23 prior meetings, although Oak Mountain hung around before Hoover prevailed 28-10 last fall. The Eagles jumped from one win to four wins last year, so perhaps they are on the upswing.
► Oct. 9 vs. Tuscaloosa County: The Bucs return home for the first time in nearly a month for a Thursday night showdown against region foe Tuscaloosa County. Hoover has won 14 straight games in the series and ran away with a 56-6 win last fall. Cris Bell, who coached at Oak Mountain from 2012-2020, is back in the region at Tuscaloosa County.
► Oct. 17 vs. Thompson: Hoover and Thompson have turned into two of the state’s biggest rivals over the last decade. This game could be one that decides Region 3 like it has so many times before. The Bucs earned a thrilling 27-26 overtime victory in last year’s contest, and have won three of the last four regular season meetings between the two.
► Oct. 24 at Vestavia Hills: Hoover closes out the regular season against its oldest rival, Vestavia Hills. The Bucs have owned the
what the Panthers will look like on the field.
series in recent years, winning nine of the last 10 meetings, including a 38-20 win last fall.
This will be the Bucs’ final regular season game.
► Oct. 31 – Open: Hoover takes a breather following 10 games in 10 weeks, and hopes that the week provides a little space before a playoff run.
SPAIN PARK
► Oct. 3 vs. Pelham: Spain Park returns to region play to begin the month at home against Pelham. The teams have played each of the last three years, with the Jags dominating each contest. Ross Newton is the new coach at Pelham this fall, so it remains to be seen
► Oct. 10 at Chelsea: The Jags take to the road to face Chelsea next, looking for a repeat performance from last fall. In that game, Spain Park made a mockery of the Under the Lights Game of the Week, dominating and winning 31-3 to send the Hornets to their first loss of the year.
► Oct. 17 at Calera: Spain Park will take its final road trip of the regular season to Calera. The Jags had no trouble last year, defeating the Eagles 42-7, and have won this matchup the last three years. Scott Rials enters his second year at Calera, looking to improve upon last year’s 3-7 mark.
► Oct. 24 vs. Chilton County: Last year’s
meeting between Spain Park and Chilton County was the first between the two programs, with Spain Park cruising to a 37-6 victory. Chilton County is now on its fourth head coach in the last five years, after hiring Merritt Bowden. Bowden has plenty of experience in the coaching ranks, with experience in Alabama high school ball in addition to some time coaching in the Canadian Football League. ► Oct. 30 vs. Gardendale: Spain Park wraps up the regular season on a Thursday night, hosting Gardendale. The Rockets are typically a solid 6A program and are also under new leadership, with Eric Firestone taking over this year. Last fall, Spain Park won this matchup 35-12.
When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries and innovations happening today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures. And it benefits not only the patients and families who come to Children’s of Alabama, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
Left: Hoover linebacker Trey Sanders (6) celebrates a sack on the IMG punter during a game between Hoover High School and IMG on Aug. 22 at the Hoover Met. Photo by Barry Stephenson. Right: Spain Park’s Nic Hendrix (64) and JD Thompson (14) celebrate a touchdown during game between Spain Park and Sparkman on Aug. 22 at Sparkman High School. Photo By Zach Irvine.
COMMUNITY
Former Miss Hoover carries Alabama to top five at Miss America
By MALIA RIGGS
The lights shimmered across a half-sparkle, half-velvet purple gown as Emma Terry walked the Miss America stage with poise and purpose. Behind her composed smile and sleek ponytail was the motto she carries from her late grandfather’s 22-year battle with ALS: “Build a higher road.”
Terry, 22, a Leeds native and former Miss Hoover, turned that life lesson into a performance that earned her fourth runner-up at Miss America 2026 in Orlando. She also was a finalist for the Quality of Life Award, which honors community service, and received $10,000 in scholarships across the two honors.
The achievement capped an already historic stretch for Hoover’s pageant tradition. Terry followed in the footsteps of Abbie Stockard — another Miss Hoover who became Miss Alabama and went on to win Miss America in 2025. Stockard returned this year to take her final walk across the stage.
Crowned Miss Alabama in June at Samford University, Terry had risen through the pageant ranks after titles such as Miss UAB and Miss Jefferson County, and a first runner-up finish the year before. The climb included unexpected heart surgery, finishing two college degrees and serving as caregiver to her grandfather.
Her service platform, “Stomping Out ALS,” has raised more than $360,000 for research and awareness. On the Miss America stage, she shared that personal connection, weaving her grandfather’s story into both her interview answers and a video segment during the evening gown competition.
“Build a higher road was my grandfather’s life motto, and after his 22-year battle with ALS, I’ve made it my own,” Terry told the audience. “For me, it means turning loss into legacy and
challenge into change.”
She showed her versatility in performance too — delivering a ballet en pointe routine to “What a Feeling” from “Flashdance” during the talent round. Judges scored across five categories, from private interviews and talent to evening wear and on-stage questions. Terry used her questions to
highlight issues of food insecurity and the need for young people to commit to causes beyond themselves.
She has competed since age 14, when she stepped on stage for the first time “with my knees shaking and going weak,” as she once recalled. Years of steady work brought her to the Miss
Build a higher road was my grandfather’s life motto, and after his 22-year battle with ALS, I’ve made it my own.
EMMA TERRY
“ ”America stage, but Terry insists the outcome isn’t what defines her.
“At the end of the day, that’s a random panel of judges,” she said before the competition. “That is not what defines you. That’s not what defines your worth. I want to have the best Miss America experience I can, and results will not define that because I know I can walk in grateful to be representing Alabama.”
Her top-five finish made her the second consecutive Miss Hoover to place on the Miss America stage. But for Terry, the night was less about placement and more about carrying her grandfather’s message forward.
“I am intentionally choosing to lead with purpose,” she said.
That same evening, Stockard — Miss America 2025 — reflected on her year and the legacy she was passing on. “Tonight, I leave this stage honored, grateful and still in awe that it all really happened,” she said. “I will forever hold close to the people, places and moments that made this year the most meaningful one yet. Thank you, America, for letting me serve you, for trusting me with this title, for embracing me as I am, and for giving me the opportunity of loving you in return.”
Miss Alabama 2025 Emma Terry placed fourth runner-up in Miss America 2026 in Orlando on Sept. 7. Photo courtesy of Carlos Velez Studios.
COMMUNITY
A new chapter of faith and leadership
By MALIA RIGGS
Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham officially entered a new chapter of leadership on Aug. 10, as Scott Redd Jr. began his role as lead pastor.
Selected after an extensive nationwide search, Redd steps into the pulpit of one of the largest congregations in the Presbyterian Church in America, bringing a unique blend of scholarly expertise and pastoral experience to the Birmingham area.
Redd entered the role following a congregational vote on June 15, which was affirmed by the Evangel Presbytery and followed by a formal installation on Aug. 10, according to a Facebook post. His first sermon as senior pastor took place that same day, marking the beginning of his ministry at Briarwood.
“Our committee believes that he is the man God has called to Briarwood. God has blessed Scott with special gifts and abilities in preaching, teaching, leading and serving. He has a deep love for the church and a commitment to proclaiming the whole counsel of God,” Pulpit Search Committee Chairman Billy Hall said in a recent report to the congregation.
Before joining Briarwood, Redd built an extensive career in theological education and leadership. After teaching and serving as dean of students at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, he became president and associate professor of Old Testament at RTS Washington, D.C., in 2012. During his tenure, Redd also directed RTS New York and continued teaching at several institutions, including Catholic
University of America and Augustine Theological Institute in Malta, broadening his influence in both pastoral training and biblical scholarship. Redd was raised in a military family and moved often during his childhood before earning his bachelor’s degree in English from the
College of William & Mary, where he met his wife, Jennifer. After working in media consulting in Washington, D.C., Redd followed a call to ministry and earned his Master of Divinity from RTS in Orlando. He went on to complete both a master's and Ph.D. in Semitic and Egyptian languages and literatures at the Catholic University of America.
Briarwood Presbyterian Church began with modest worship services in a Cahaba Heights storefront. The church quickly grew into one of the largest congregations in the Presbyterian Church in America. Under Barker’s nearly four decades of leadership, the church established Briarwood Christian School and Birmingham Theological Seminary. Briarwood also played a pivotal role in the PCA’s formation, hosting the denomination’s first general assembly in December 1973.
After Barker’s retirement in 1999, Harry Reeder III became Briarwood’s second senior pastor, leading the congregation for more than two decades until his unexpected passing in May 2023. By this time, Briarwood had settled into its current campus off Interstate 459 and Acton Road, opened in 1988, and expanded its ministries both locally and globally.
Now settled in Birmingham, Redd brings with him not only a deep love of Scripture, but also a strong commitment to pastoral leadership. He and his wife, Jennifer, are parents to five daughters. Jennifer stated in a recent video addressing the congregation that the family looks forward to becoming part of the Briarwood community. Now, as the church turns the page, Redd steps into his new role combining academic depth with pastoral care.
With Redd’s leadership underway, Briarwood Presbyterian begins a new season rooted in tradition yet looking toward the future.
Briarwood Presbyterian Church has entered a new chapter of leadership as Scott Redd Jr. officially began his role as lead pastor on Aug. 10. Selected after an extensive nationwide search, Redd steps into the pulpit of one of the largest congregations in the Presbyterian Church in America bringing a unique blend of scholarly expertise and pastoral experience to the Birmingham community. Photo courtesy of Briarwood Presbyterian Church.
COMMUNITY
On the Mainstage
Singer Staci Leigh Earl
By SHERRY EMMERKE
Singer Staci Leigh Earl, a Hoover resident, regularly performs at venues across Hoover, the 280 corridor and surrounding areas with Blue Moon Duet. She recently released her first solo single.
Q: Where is home for you and where did you grow up?
A: I live in Hoover and have lived here since 2019 and I love it. I grew up in Fultondale.
Q: Tell us about your first music gig.
A: Oh, I was 19 and my boyfriend played in a band at the time. They were playing at Pinson Valley High School, and I sang four songs with them that night. I was so happy, even though it was not a paying gig. I was on top of the world!
Q: Who inspired you, and influenced you in music?
A: Women singers such as Pat Benatar, Blondie, Bonnie Raitt, Madonna, Cyndi Lauper and many others.
Q: If people want to come see you perform, where can they find you?
A: I play in Blue Moon Duet with my duo partner Alan Ashman. We play in Hoover at Phil Sandoval’s Mexican Restaurante in Brock’s Gap and at Moss Rock Preserve. In Pelham we play at Margarita Grill, and on 280 we play at Courtyard 280
Oyster Bar and Grill. Downtown we just played a new gig at Magnolia Point Restaurant.
Q: What are some of your favorite songs to perform?
A: “Leather and Lace” by Stevie Nicks, “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas, “Cruel Summer” by Bananarama, “I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt, and “Diary of Jane” by Breaking Benjamin.
Q: What about your original music?
A: I recently recorded a song called “Bleeding.” This song was released to all streaming platforms on Monday, Aug. 4, 2025. It is a country/rock ballad. My next single will be called “Lost,” and it is about feeling like you have no place to call home after a divorce and hoping for a fairytale relationship.
Q: Where can people find your music online?
A: The first single “Bleeding” can be found on iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music and YouTube. I sing under Staci Leigh, which is my first and middle name.
Q: What does life look like for you right now?
A: Exciting! I enjoy singing with Blue Moon Duet and recording songs. I also enjoy time with my daughters and granddaughters. I work full time, so I am very busy. It keeps life fun to have a lot going on. I have many friends and family members who encourage me.
SPOTLIGHT
Master Justin and Jessica Scarsella build
a community through Tae Kwon Do
By APRIL COFFEY
World Class Tae Kwon Do just marked its 21st anniversary in Birmingham, a milestone for the school founded by Master Justin Scarsella in 2004. Since then, more than 1,000 students have earned their Black Belt at the Inverness and Hoover locations, where more than 650 students currently train.
Jessica Scarsella says her husband began Tae Kwon Do at age 12 after his mother enrolled him to build confidence.
“Not only did those things happen, but he made it his life's mission to pass on the values and lessons he learned in Tae Kwon Do to his students,” she said.
Jessica began as an adult student and soon became integral to the family business. “The reason I started Tae Kwon Do was not just to spend time with my husband but also the fitness, self-defense and community that Tae Kwon Do instills for adults,” she said. Today she oversees staff development, special events and operations.
Classes begin for students as young as 4 or 5. On average, it takes three years to earn a Black Belt, with many advancing to higher degrees. “Our teaching style uses positive reinforcement and step-by-step directions, so this helps build confidence and focus for many students,” Jessica said. World Class Tae Kwon Do offers a free introductory lesson to new students. For more, visit AlabamaTKD.com.
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Justin Scarsella owns and operates Master Scarcella’s World Class Tae Kwon Do with locations in Inverness on U.S. 280 and in Hoover. Photo courtesy of Master Scarcella’s World Class Tae Kwon Do.
Staci Leigh Earl
CONTINUED from page 1
The transition team includes a wide variety of leaders in the fields of business, education, public safety, law, government, health care, engineering, sports, tourism, marketing and real estate.
The team is focusing on areas such as education and workforce development, public safety, economic growth, infrastructure, fiscal accountability, parks and recreation and quality of life.
“Each member brings expertise, vision and a genuine dedication to our community,” Derzis said. “Together, they reflect the strengths of Hoover — from our schools and neighborhoods to our businesses and civic institutions, and I am confident in their ability to help us prepare for the opportunities ahead.”
The group held its first meeting on Sept. 3, exactly two months before Derzis is scheduled to be sworn in.
The new mayor also will have some key leadership positions to fill. Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Cornett is leaving Hoover on Oct. 1 to become the assistant city manager and finance director in Mountain Brook and Derzis also must find someone to take his place as police chief.
Derzis said he certainly wishes Cornett well in her new role with Mountain Brook and the city of Hoover is taking applications to fill the CFO role. It’s an important job and he’ll be talking with contacts he has about recommendations for a replacement and with people who may be interested, he said.
As for the police chief role, Derzis said he plans to appoint Assistant Chief Norman McDuffey as interim chief while he looks for someone to fill the job permanently. McDuffey is not interested in the permanent role because he’s planning to retire soon, Derzis said.
He’ll be looking for someone who shares his passion and vision for keeping Hoover a safe
place to live, work and play, he said.
Derzis has said one of the first things he’s going to do as mayor is to ask for a full forensic audit of city finances. A forensic review of city finances by a national company called Kroll found no evidence of fraud or malfeasance but said some of the past practices of the city’s Finance Department “could have created an opportunity to commit financial fraud.”
The city’s regular auditing firm, Barfield Murphy Shank and Smith, gave the city an “unmodified report” for 2023 and 2024, with Keith Barfield, a principal in the firm, saying “it doesn’t get any better than that.”
But Derzis said, “I’m not going to take over a city this size with the type of budget that we’ve got until we can account for all the money and know exactly where it is.”
Some incoming City Council members also have said they plan to seek a full forensic audit by the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts.
Throughout his campaign, Derzis repeatedly said the city of Hoover, while still a great city with great people, looks tired and is in need of reinvigoration. The Patton Creek and Riverchase Galleria shopping centers are prime examples and the city needs to work with the owners more aggressively to fill the vacant spots, he said.
One of the tasks of his transition team is to identify opportunities to strengthen the local economy, attract businesses and support existing enterprises.
Two of his transition team members are former leaders of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, Greg Barker and Don Erwin. Another is Alan Paquette, the vice president of property management at Jim Wilson & Associates who oversees The Offices at 3000 Riverchase office tower on the Galleria campus and who is chairman of the Hoover Health Care Authority working on the Riverwalk Village project.
Derzis also wants to create a program called Hoover Forever, which would track alumni from Hoover schools and encourage them to come back to live and work in Hoover.
Another priority of his new administration will be to review the city’s stormwater ordinance and enforcement provisions, he said. One of the first things that upset him and motivated him to run for mayor was the city’s failure to address residents’ problems with stormwater flooding. In some cases, it may have been the city’s actions or the actions of someone else that contributed to the problem or caused it and in such cases, the city needs to take action to protect residents and property owners, he said.
Transparency in government has been another central theme among candidates who ran for office this year. Derzis said he’s tired of seeing residents come to council meetings and be made to look like bad people because they’re asking questions about city government.
“That’s not government for the people, by the people,” Derzis said.
He plans to be very transparent and have more town hall meetings to give people more opportunities to voice their concerns.
Derzis said he knew from the beginning it would be tough to beat current Mayor Frank Brocato, who has been in office for nine years, but credits his great team with getting the job done.
Brocato said he wishes Derzis well and will work with him in the transition to a new administration and make sure Hoover continues to move forward in a great way.
Derzis said he also looks forward to working with a new City Council. There will be three new council members in November. John Lyda, Curt Posey and Sam Swiney decided not to run for re-election.
Derzis said he has a talent for building relationships to get things done. “We’re going to come together as one council, one mayor, one city focused on three things — strength, purpose and unity.”
Nick Derzis, the mayor-elect for the city of Hoover poses for a photo with the members of his transition team helping him prepare to take over as mayor of the state's sixth largest city Photo courtesy of Nick Derzis transition team.
Hoover police Chief Nick Derzis introduces his mayoral campaign team at an election night party at the Hoover Randle Home and Gardens on Aug. 26. Photo by Jon Anderson.
Transition team works to aid Derzis
By JON ANDERSON
Hoover Mayor-elect Nick Derzis has put together a 33-member transition team that is helping him prepare to take over as mayor on Nov. 3.
The chairman of the transition team is Michael Davis, who has spent 23 years managing federal and state public policy and government relations at the Balch & Bingham law firm and who played a key role in Derzis’ campaign for mayor.
The vice chairman is B.J. Ellis, CEO of the Telegraph marketing agency and former CEO of Yellowhammer Multimedia, who also was involved in Derzis’ campaign.
ing principal at Vestavia Hills High School
► Jennifer Hogan, recently retired as principal at Hoover High School after 14 years at the school; character education consultant with The Hope Institute
► Craig Kelley, served 10 years on the Hoover Board of Education and seven years on the Hoover Parks and Recreation Board
► Elizabeth Tanner, board member for the Hoover City Schools Foundation
SAFETY & CITY SERVICES
PUBLIC
Primary tasks: Comprehensive review of police, fire and emergency medical services, including staffing, funding, response times and coverage areas
► Chairman Frank Barefield Jr., president of Abbey Residential who has built and managed a multifamily real estate portfolio exceeding $2.5 billion; board chairman for Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama; recently gave $35 million gift to University of Alabama College of Arts & Sciences
sues and funding; evaluate the Inverness, Riverchase and Southlake sewer system; review and recommend traffic flow patterns to relieve congestion; report on new Interstate 459 interchange; recommend staffing where needed
► Chairman Scott Promer, a licensed professional engineer and director at Waggoner Engineering with more than 27 years of experience leading infrastructure and industrial projects across the Southeast; Alabama Environmental Management Commission member since 2017
► Lanier Brown, a trial attorney and longtime member of Watkins & Eager law firm, where he represents health care providers, manufacturers and other clients in litigation spanning product liability, commercial disputes and professional liability; adjunct professor of trial advocacy at the University of Alabama School of Law; Alabama Environmental Management Commission member
director at University of Alabama at Birmingham; inducted into Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
► Co-chairman Craig Moss, former Hoover Parks and Recreation director; nearly three decades of experience in leadership, education, and athletics; coordinated the SEC Baseball Tournament for 16 years
► Tynette Lynch, former tourism director for city of Hoover; Aldridge Gardens CEO; more than three decades in hospitality and tourism industry, including managing The Wynfrey Hotel, Mountain Brook Inn and Holiday Inn in Homewood
► Greg Blackman, 40 years of service as youth football, baseball and softball coach; since 2019 has served as president of Hoover Bucs Youth Football and Cheer and vice president of Jefferson-Shelby Youth Football League; owner and operator of Blackman Plumbing
BEAUTIFICATION, QUALITY OF LIFE, CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Charlie Waldrep, a founding member of the Waldrep, Stewart & Kendrick law firm who served as Hoover’s city attorney from 2012 to 2016 and has been the city’s prosecutor for 21 years, is serving as the legal advisor for the transition team. Waldrep’s firm has represented numerous public agencies over the decades, including the cities of Pelham, Bessemer, Brookside, Fultondale, Kimberly, Leeds and Troy, Jefferson County, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Birmingham Water Works Board and Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority.
► Craig Caldwell, a senior corporate security executive with more than 31 years of leadership experience in protective operations, risk mitigation and program management across higher education, government and federal law enforcement; formerly was special agent in charge of the U.S. Secret Service Birmingham field office and director of the National Computer Forensics Institute; was advisor to the U.S. secretary of homeland security; since 2017 has served as director of threat assessment and dignitary protection at University of Alabama.
► Allen Pate, retired executive director for city of Hoover; served nearly 29 years under five mayors after initially being hired to oversee construction of Hoover Metropolitan Stadium
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
► Dewayne Smith, vice president at Hydro Engineering Solutions; authored a case study demonstrating how continuous stormwater monitoring systems achieved cost savings of around 30% and significantly enhanced data collection for the city of Hoover, thereby improving compliance and pollutant source identification
TRANSPARENCY, RISK & FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Primary tasks: Evaluate the city’s financial health, risk management practices and transparency mechanisms to ensure fiscal responsibility, regulatory compliance, and public trust through open and accountable government operations; review public debt and financial obligations; recommend staffing where needed
Primary tasks: Hoover Forever program coordination with Education and Workforce Committee and Economic Development Committee; evaluate community, arts and Chamber of Commerce programs, neighborhood conditions and citizen participation opportunities to enhance livability, foster community pride and strengthen democratic engagement while identifying missed opportunities for community improvement and resident involvement; assessment of city entrances, particularly along U.S. 31, aesthetics and gateway enhancement opportunities
► Chairman David Bannister, higher education software sales professional specializing in campus one-card systems; has served more than 1,000 college campuses across the nation; founder of Neighborhood Bridges Hoover, which has delivered more than $1 million in aid to students and families in need
Jim White, an investment banker and attorney with Porter, White & Co., is serving as a special advisor to the transition team as well. White has more than 50 years of experience advising individuals, corporations, universities and public entities on finance, investment and development. His clients have included the city of Birmingham, University of Alabama System and the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, and he co-founded the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama.
Here’s a breakdown of the rest of the transition team, with the areas on which they are focusing:
EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE
Primary tasks: Working with Hoover City Schools and launching a Hoover Forever program designed to strengthen ties with Hoover and Spain Park high school alumni and use those connections to strengthen the city’s economic vitality.
► Chairman Kermit Kendrick, attorney with Burr & Forman law firm and former Hoover Board of Education member
► Tyler Burgess, director of learning and development at the Brasfield & Gorrie construction company; Hoover High graduate; spent 22 years in public education, includ-
Primary tasks: Evaluate current economic development pipeline, strategies, incentives and identify opportunities to strengthen the local economy, attract businesses and support existing enterprises; strengthen relationship and partnership opportunities with the Hoover chamber; Hoover Forever program coordination with the Education and Workforce Committee and the Quality of Life, Beautification and Civic Engagement Committee.
► Chairman Don Erwin, former vice president of recruiting for the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama and vice president of corporate development for Barber Companies
► Greg Barker, former president of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama; more than two decades of leadership experience, including roles at Alabama Power Co., Calhoun County Economic Development Authority and Birmingham Metropolitan Development Board
► Mike Bolin, Jefferson County Commissioner; former associate justice on Alabama Supreme Court and Jefferson County probate judge
► Alan Paquette, vice president of property management at Jim Wilson & Associates, where he oversees The Offices at 3000 Riverchase; Hoover Board of Education president; Hoover Health Care Authority chairman involved with Riverwalk Village
WATER & TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE
Primary tasks: Review current stormwater ordinance and enforcement provisions; reset relationship with ADEM; review stormwater infrastructure and recommend priority is-
► Chairwoman Melinda Lopez, former chief financial and information officer for city of Hoover; practitioner-in-residence in the Master of Public Administration program at Regent University; researcher with Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama
► Steve Lawrence, risk management and commercial insurance professional with more than 30 years of experience; unsuccessfully ran for Hoover City Council Place 5 this year
► Frank Long Jr., municipal and public finance attorney at Balch & Bingham, where he routinely represents clients as bond counsel, underwriter’s counsel, borrower’s counsel, bank counsel and disclosure counsel on complex public finance matters; deep expertise financing infrastructure development, including pollution control and solid waste disposal facilities; experience in public offerings, private placements, direct loans, IRS audits, derivative instruments, trust default administration and post-issuance compliance
SPORTS/TOURISM, PARKS & RECREATION
Primary tasks: Evaluate recreational facilities, tourism assets and sports/ tourism programs to enhance quality of life for residents while maximizing economic impact and ensuring sustainable operations that serve diverse community needs, including assessment of untapped opportunities and underutilized assets
► Co-chairman Pete Derzis, veteran sports media and events executive who recently joined Bespoke Sports & Entertainment as senior advisor after a 31-year career at ESPN, including as senior vice president of college sports programming and ESPN events; led ESPN Regional Television; former associate athletic
► Kim Starling, director of strategy for ambulatory health care at UAB St. Vincent’s; more than 30 years of health care administration experience, including 34 years at Brookwood Medical Center and her work since 2018 with Ascension St. Vincent’s; vice chairman of administration for Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce
► Ralph Williams Jr., vice president of Birmingham Division at Alabama Power, where he leads economic and community development and external affairs across the metropolitan region
► David Cohen, owner and operator of The Whole Scoop ice cream shop; former food and beverage director at The Wynfrey Hotel
► Glen Durough, elected to Jefferson County Board of Education in November 2024; also serves as assistant to Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr
► Sanjay Patel, principal and owner of Baron Hospitality in Hoover; oversees 10 hotels and guides strategic operations across the hospitality sector; first vice chairman of Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce; Alabama regional director for Asian American Hotel Owners Association; sits on Alabama Restaurant and Hotel Association board and Choice Hotels Regional Advisory Board
► Scott Underwood, co-founder of Centennial Homes; president of Greater Birmingham Association of Homebuilders; chairman of Hoover Commercial Development Authority and the Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High School; previous member of Hoover Planning and Zoning Commission
Davis
Waldrep Ellis
White
CONTINUED from page 1
If you’re not curious — you know — what’s the point? There’s a lot of life out there. You just have to live it.”
With a typical, no-nonsense Midwestern sensibility, Nancy said she doesn’t spend much time wondering what other people think or how they perceive her. “I’ve lived a charmed life. I’m just me, I guess.”
She believes she’s always been adventurous, always active growing up in Aurora, Illinois, near Chicago. Her best theory is that the quest to experience so much of life ramped up after surviving a near-fatal infection right after giving birth to her daughter, Amy. She said she realized how important it was to live life fully and hasn’t let up since.
Nancy floated the hiking idea to her loved ones, and soon it was settled: Nancy would make the trip with daughter Amy, now 60, and Nancy’s 22-year-old grandson, Sebastian — Amy’s nephew who lives in Switzerland and serves in the Swiss Armed Forces. The family would average about 6 miles a day for a little over a week. Nights would be spent at local bed and breakfasts along the way.
“I had a sense of awe,” Nancy said about arriving at Hadrian’s Wall and soaking it all in. “It’s exciting to see the accomplishments of these former ancient civilizations. It’s humbling.”
The real excitement began on Day 2. That’s when Nancy fell on a steep set of uneven, concrete stairs, nearly rolled down a cliff into a river and sprained her ankle.
“I’m using my hiking poles, and I start to go up that first step,” Nancy recalled. “I’m really leaning on this one, and my hands slip. And I go right down on my face. And I’m like, ‘Something broke. I don’t know what broke, but I’m scared to death.’”
The incident rattled her. There was no cell service, no bathrooms, no doctors, no “help.”
“I was thinking, ‘I shouldn’t have done this. I’m too old. This was stupid.’ Age was definitely a factor for the first time,” Nancy said.
Amy detailed her mom’s scary tumble.
“I heard when it happened, and Sebastian grabbed her by her collar and saved her from rolling down into the river,” Amy said, emotion filling her voice. “It wasn't until later,” Amy said, “that he and I realized he literally saved her life.”
Meanwhile, Nancy kept her fears to herself.
“We thought it was over at that point. She got up and said, ‘I’m OK.’ Her ankle hurt a little bit, but she’s like, ‘I’m OK, we’ll just keep going, and we’ll see what happens.’”
Nancy confessed she secretly considered calling it quits after the ankle injury during her rest day. But something inside spurred her on, to keep that promise to herself to finish her goal.
After taking the next day to rest, she pulled on an ankle brace, and, as the British say, she managed to keep calm and carry on.
Nancy is quick to point out her disappointment that she didn’t complete the entire 84 miles, but has decided it was still a pretty decent effort. “It’s humbling, but sometimes that’s not a bad thing,” Nancy conceded. “It’s character-building — that’s what my mother would say.”
FAMILY BOND
The family time was like nothing Nancy said she ever expected, as she learned more about who they were as people. She was touched by their care, their teamwork and their patience.
“I was so slow,” Nancy said. “If I had been them, I would have been about done with this old lady dragging along back there. Neither of them acted like that was rough.”
The trio spent their evenings in British pubs, sharing ale or prosecco and recounting the memories of the day.
Sebastian said the experience meant a lot to him, from forming a closer connection to his grandmother and aunt to experiencing the long history and marvelous culture of the region. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he said.
LIFETIME
OF ADVENTURE
Few people have met an octogenarian like Nancy. Her lifelong dedication to learning and
“I thought, ‘You’ve got to have something to look forward to.’ I’ve always wanted to do Hadrian’s Wall. If you’re not curious — you know — what’s the point? There’s a lot of life out there. You just have to live it.
NANCY KAMM
”How to ace the aging game
Whether you want to hike an 84-mile ancient fortress or simply cruise into your adult years with more confidence and joy, Nancy Kamm's approach to adventuring in her 80s is a blueprint for all ages. Her strategy?
► Choose a goal or experience that interests you.
► Break down the steps to achieve it.
► Set a deadline and get started.
► Don’t waste time doubting yourself.
“Life is about learning new things, doing new things, exploring,” said Kamm, a resident of Galleria Woods Senior Living community in Hoover. “It propels you to keep going ahead and testing yourself.”
In May, Kamm hiked the ancient ruins of England’s 84-mile Hadrian’s Wall — which is 80 Roman miles — to celebrate her 80th birthday.
Experts agree that there’s no expiration date on leveling up your life.
“It’s never too late,” said SangRok Lee, an exercise scientist at Samford University who focuses on healthy aging research. “Exercise is a lifetime intervention.”
Be sure to start small to avoid discouragement, Lee advised.
Stacey Davis, fitness manager at Galleria Woods, agreed. She marvelled as Kamm trained months in advance for her British adventure with daily 5- and 10mile power walks through the halls of the retirement community.
“It’s such a cool thing.”
Davis said not to let overwhelm become an obstacle. She said you can simply start tonight by alternating standing on each foot as you brush your teeth. It will help balance and leg strength and create an easy-to-remember habit that will soon show results.
“Once you get moving, you’re going to want to move more,” Davis said.
and keep exploring new things in the world around us.”
Sebastian’s dad and Nancy’s son, Robert, is the longtime executive chef at Ross Bridge Resort in Hoover. An avid hiker and mountain climber, he helped Nancy train for the birthday excursion on the trails of Red Mountain. He said he never had a moment’s concern about his mother’s challenging trip.
adventure inspires those around her. She’s a brown belt in karate, an experienced cyclist and a tai chi instructor. In earlier years, she worked as a travel agent and earned college degrees in French literature, English literature and business administration. She’s a master gardener, a former real estate agent and a world traveler whose home is brimming with souvenirs from her exotic and often solo excursions.
She was globe-trotting alone in the 1980s, something so unusual for the time that her husband’s employer called to ask if everything was all right in the family.
How times have changed. But Nancy has always been Nancy. The rest of the world is just finally starting to catch up with her.
“She started adventuring when my brother and I were in high school and in college,” Amy said. “I thought it was great that she wanted to go on all of those adventures. Once we got the travel bug in our family, none of us have
ever stopped.”
Nancy credits her late husband, Robert, with supporting and financing her dreams. Often busy with his job and not a huge fan of travel, he encouraged her to pursue her interests.
“We were a great team,” said Nancy, who lost Robert almost three years ago.
INSPIRING OTHERS
The family certainly recognizes how unusual Nancy is compared to others her age, but it’s been so consistent over the decades that it’s not something they sit around thinking about. Ask them and they’ll use words like fearless, determined and self-motivated. She also has a wickedly funny sense of humor and is always ready for an intellectual exchange.
“My grandmother is different from other older people because she remains highly active and quick-witted,” Sebastian said. “Her lifestyle reminds me to stay active, eat healthy
“I am very proud of my mother and her accomplishments, and I am confident that she will continue pushing herself to stay as healthy and active as she possibly can,” Robert said.
Others who are newer to knowing Nancy often express surprise at her slate of accomplishments. As Nancy clocked up to 10 miles a day training in the halls of Galleria Woods, people started noticing and asking questions. And after that, more seniors started taking to the halls, too. Nancy says that’s a thrill — to impact people in a positive way.
“My perception is that (residents) think she’s superwoman,” said Stacey Davis, fitness manager at Galleria Woods. “She inspires me so much — she’s constantly wanting to better herself. That’s unusual for every age.”
PHILOSOPHY OF LIVING
Nancy credits her tai chi practice with influencing her approach to life — one she thinks might benefit a lot of people.
“It’s a philosophy of living,” she said. “Your happiness is your decision. It’s your choice.”
Hoover resident Nancy Kamm maintains her fitness with daily walks of 5 to 10 miles on the trails at Galleria Woods Senior Living. That commitment prepared her for her 80th birthday goal of walking the 84-mile Hadrian’s Wall in England. Photo by Kelli S. Hewett.
