To view this and previous issues in a digital flip version, scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.
Family photos are the perfect way to preserve memories, but they can be stressful. Best of the ‘Ham family photographer winner Kayla Morgan says not on her watch! Beloved for her laid-back approach and accommodating flexibility, Kayla does all she can to make photoshoots an enjoyable experience with a priceless reward—images to treasure forever. Read more on page 22.
Photograph courtesy of Kayla Morgan.
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EDITOR’S NOTE
November invites us to slow down, reflect, and gather with those we love most. It’s the season of gratitude, and we’re feeling it in every page of this month’s issue.
I recently accompanied my daughter and a group of her classmates and other parents on trip to the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, where we learned the history of the site and spent some time cleaning grave markers to honor those who served. It was a moving reminder of what Veterans Day is truly about, and the values we hope to pass on. Read more on page 10.
If, like me, you’re planning Thanksgiving lunch and making a never-ending grocery list that won’t have you running to the store at 9 p.m. on November 26. Go ahead and check off dessert and grab a pie or two from JaWanda’s Sweet Potato Pies—a beloved local bakery serving up delicious Southern desserts that will steal the sweets show. Check out JaWanda’s story and menu on page 14.
We’re also celebrating community and creativity. Our Best of the ‘Ham family photographer winner shares her story—and her expert tips for capturing stress-free family portraits this season—on page 22. Plus, our monthly student spotlight shines a light on inspiring young achievers (page 26).
If you’re in the mood for a festive getaway, we’ve mapped out a fun-filled holiday road trip to Americus, Georgia, perfect for creating new memories just a few hours from home. See page 18 to learn more.
Whether you’re cooking, crafting, honoring heroes, or dressing up for a family photo, we hope this issue adds warmth and inspiration to your month.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us to you!
Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com
INSIDE THE ISSUE
Sean of the South
Thanksgiving Arrives p. 6
Nonprofit
Alabama National Cemetery p. 8
Crafting with Kids
Make a yarn-and-ribbon turkey p. 12
Food
JaWanda’s Sweet Potato Pies p. 14
Travel
A holiday trip to Americus, Georgia p. 18
Education Update
News from local schools p. 26
Schoolhouse
Update from the Hoover City Schools p. 29
Happenings
November Events Calendar p. 30
FEATURE STORY
Capturing Family Memories
Best of the ‘Ham family photographer winner Kayla Morgan shares her talent and tips for picture-perfect photos that will last a lifetime. p. 22
Thanksgiving Arrives
The Cracker Barrel is slammed. And loud. Inside, there isn’t much in the way of elbow room. There are heaps of people. And I am trying to master the wooden Triangle Peg game.
The object of this game, of course, is simple. Leave the fewest pegs remaining on the triangle as possible. Finish a game with only one peg is left; you are a NASA-level genius. Two pegs; you are moderately clever. Four pegs; your parents are first cousins.
Sean Dietrich
I love Cracker Barrel. But then, I have a long history with this institution. I’ve eaten at Cracker Barrels from Beaverton, Oregon, to Prattville, Alabama. I’ve eaten here on Thanksgiving, the day I graduated college, the morning after my wedding, and the day after my father died. The food suits me.
The overhead music always has steel guitar in it. The people in the giftshop always ask how you’re doing. And if you’re bored, you can always embarrass your wife by buying a Davy Crockett hat and wearing it into the dining room.
Today, an elderly couple is sitting next to me as I fiddle with the peg game. The old man is skinny. She is frail. They are shoulder to shoulder.
The man is wearing a hospital bracelet. His entire lower leg is in a medical brace. His face is bruised purple. There is dried blood on his forearms. He is resting his head onto the old woman’s shoulder because it looks like he’s been through hell itself.
She is helping him drink his Coke with a straw.
“Thank you, Judy,” he says between sips.
She just pats his head.
On the other side of the dining room is a table of paramedics. They are young, wearing buzz cuts, cargo pants, radios mounted on their shoulders. Their eyes are drooping, the coffee evidently isn’t helping. It looks like they’ve had a long night.
I eavesdrop on their conversation:
“What’re you doing for Thanksgiving?”
“Sleeping,” says the other.
“Yeah, well, I’m just gonna give my kids KFC and go back to bed, I’ve worked two ten-hour shifts. I’m about to start hallucinating.”
These men are modern day saints. You can have your reality TV stars and your social media influencers. Show me an EMT, and I’ll show you the embodiment of all that is good in America.
Meantime, behind me is a young family with several kids. Four boys. Three boys healthy looking. One is not. One child is small and slight, with a colostomy bag. He has another electronic device mounted on his head, just behind the ear. I believe it’s a neuroprosthetic implant for those with hearing problems.
The boy stares at his older brother’s plate and says, “Can I have some of your pancakes, J.D.?”
J.D. rolls his eyes. “You mean, you already finished your pancakes? You pig.”
“I was hungry, J.D.”
J.D. does something incredible. Although he is a teenager, and although he is at that age where kids are notoriously selfish, the teenage boy relinquishes his pancakes and places them onto his little brother’s plate.
J.D. hasn’t even taken a bite of his pancakes yet, and still, he gives them away.
The little boy’s face glows like a landing strip. “Thanks, J.D!”
Across from me, I see the elderly woman is now feeding the elderly man. She is administering spoonfuls of grits to his mouth, blowing on them to cool them down, then dabbing his chin with a
napkin. Occasionally, she kisses his forehead. Then, the room fills with a loud beeping sound. Everyone’s heads turn to look at the EMTs, whose radios are squawking and hissing. The paramedics stand. They leave cash on the table. They slam their coffees. They jog out of the restaurant, and we all see them through the windows. Off to save a life. They pile into their vehicles, sound the sirens, and speed toward hell itself.
As it happens, I’m not smart enough to conquer the peg game, but I know a few things. I know that people are beautiful. I know that life is a treat that does not last half as long as we expect. I know that the elderly couple beside me embodies the purest of love known to humans. I know that J.D. is a good brother.
And I know that this Thanksgiving, all EMTs should be granted a pay raise.
ILLUSTRATION BY SEAN DIETRICH
Honoring Heroes
Kids bring shine and respect to veterans at the Alabama National Cemetery
TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY
STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
The Alabama National Cemetery, located just south of Birmingham in Montevallo, is a place of purpose and deep history. It serves as a national shrine for veterans, including soldiers who served in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The 479-acre cemetery includes a public information center, memorial walkway, columbarium, committal shelters, and administrative and maintenance facilities, designed to ensure care for future generations. It was created in response to the 2003 National Cemetery Expansion Act, which authorized new national cemeteries in underserved areas,
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and it officially opened for burials in 2009.
Recently, I accompanied my daughter, Harper, some of her schoolmates, and other parents—including my Army and Iraqi war veteran husband, Matthew—to the cemetery, where we gathered for a meaningful service project: cleaning the marble headstones. The event was led by caretaker Herman Watkins, a former Navy administrative officer who served 28 years and now dedicates his days to preserving the dignity of this sacred ground. Assisting him was cemetery foreman Brian Hudson, an Air Force veteran. The men gave a short orientation and helped guide students in military burial protocol and proper cleaning techniques, explaining that each marker represents a life of service and sacrifice, and cleaning those markers is one way to honor those contributions.
We were assigned a section of markers and given brushes and buckets of soapy water, which the students used to remove dirt and debris. I loved watching the kids work together side by side. During the
Navy veteran Herman Watkins taught us the meaning of coins on the headstones. A penny signifies a visit; a nickel means the visitor and veteran trained together at boot camp; a dime means they served together; and a quarter, the most poignant, indicates the visitor was with the service member when they died.
cleanup, an active funeral procession passed through the cemetery and, as instructed by Mr. Herman, students and volunteers paused in silence while the veterans saluted until the procession was complete. We were told the cemetery holds multiple burials each day, sometimes up to eight or nine.
We worked together and, about an hour later, the white marble markers gleamed under the sun. More importantly, the children left with a deeper understanding of national service, respect, and remembrance. Projects like this allow younger generations to connect and understand the gravity of the past and reflect on it with gratitude. We can’t wait to return to the Alabama National Cemetery next month to help lay wreaths on graves for the holiday season.
Wrap Up Some Thanksgiving Fun
This colorful turkey craft is the perfect way to keep little hands busy.
Looking for a fun and festive way to keep the kids entertained during Thanksgiving break? This adorable yarn-and-ribbon turkey is the perfect holiday project. It’s simple to put together and makes a bright addition to your Thanksgiving table or mantel. Using materials you can find easily at the crafts store, this turkey is a great way to encourage creativity while celebrating the season.
Materials
• Wooden discs or cardboard
• Brown yarn
• Assorted ribbon and pipe cleaners
• Orange and red felt
• Googly eyes
• 2 clothespins
• Scissors
• Glue gun
Instructions
1. Cut out two cardboard circles, a larger one for the body and a smaller one for the turkey’s face. (We used wooden discs in 3- and 6-inch sizes.)
2. Wrap the larger circle with brown yarn, overlapping pieces as you go, until the surface is mostly covered. Secure the ends of the yarn with a dab of hot glue.
3. Cut several pieces of ribbon, about 6 to 8 inches long each. Fold each piece in half to form a loop, and hot-glue them around the back edge of the turkey’s body to create colorful “feathers.”
4. Glue googly eyes onto the smaller circle. Cut a small triangle from orange felt to make the beak, and attach it below the eyes. Add a red felt or ribbon wattle under the beak.
5. Hot-glue the turkey face to the front of the yarn-wrapped “body.”
6. Clip two clothespins to the bottom of the turkey to create legs, allowing it to stand on your mantel or table.
Sweet Potato Pie Queen
The pie that powers Thanksgiving can be found in more than a dozen flavors at JaWanda Jackson’s Inverness bake shop.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE
For JaWanda Jackson, baking pies isn’t just a business; it’s a calling rooted in family, faith, and tradition. What started as a beloved family recipe has grown into one of Birmingham’s most treasured pie shops, known especially for signature sweet potato pie. As the holiday season approaches, JaWanda’s kitchen kicks into high gear, filling orders for Thanksgiving tables all over town.
JaWanda’s journey began in her kitchen. “From a teenager, it has always been my desire to own my own business,” she says. “I wanted it to be something unique, something that had never been done before.” Her husband’s love for sweet potato pie sparked the idea, and after tweaking her mother’s and a friend’s recipes, her creation quickly became a hit with family and friends. “Then I decided to tweak it even more by making different flavors of sweet
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF JAWANDA JACKSON
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
potato pies, and JaWanda’s was birthed.” From her home kitchen, the business grew to include farmers markets then retail locations, eventually landing in local favorites like Cowboys 280 and Piggly Wiggly.
JaWanda says the love and prayers that go into her pies is what makes them special. “My cooking and baking background comes from my mother, who was an excellent cook. Because sweet potato pie was never a favorite dessert of mine, I wanted to perfect it for my palate.” She did and now sells 17 flavors of sweet potato pie, including classic original, orange cream cheese, pineapple cream cheese, s’mores, coconut cream, hooey gooey, marble chocolate, S’prize, and her newest option—pumpkin spice. “Hands down the Original 9” Sweet Potato Pie is the most popular and the Pecan 9” Sweet Potato Pie comes in second as most popular during the Thanksgiving season,” says JaWanda. The shop begins taking holiday orders in September and typically continues into early November. In addition to pies, JaWanda also offers sweet potato casseroles and sweet potato batter in a jar for customers who prefer to bake their own at home.
“It is a humbling experience when I think about the many families who allow us the opportunity to be a part of their holiday season,” says JaWanda. “[The pies] are a labor of love, and the flavors complement every other Thanksgiving dish—the unmistakable seasonings, the light, creamy texture, and the buttery crust all create the perfect dessert. I am truly honored to share in a tradition that extends from generation to generation.”
For more information, visit jawandasweetpotatopie.com. The best way to order is by calling (205) 874-9880 or coming by the shop at 5291 Valleydale Road, Suite 111, Birmingham 35242. Special Thanksgiving week hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Holiday Magic in Americus A road trip from Birmingham worth taking
BY CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
I’ve always loved the holiday season. Every year, I look forward to the lights, the music, and the way even ordinary streets seem to sparkle under strands of lights. But there’s something extra special about discovering a place that not only embraces the holidays but seems to become a living, breathing snow globe of cheer. For me, that place is Americus, Georgia.
From Birmingham, Americus is just a few hours’ drive, and it feels like stepping right into a holiday postcard. The first time I visited during the holiday season, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I found was straight out of a Hallmark movie, complete with a grand historic hotel, decorated storefronts, a community tree lighting, and even a holiday trolley. It was the kind of trip that made me feel like a kid again, and it’s one I think your family should add to their holiday bucket list.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CHERITH GLOVER FLUKER
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The Windsor Hotel: Holiday Magic at the Heart of Town
The centerpiece of downtown Americus is the Windsor Hotel, a beautiful Victorian hotel that dates back to the late 1800s. Walking through its doors feels like stepping straight into the past. During the holiday season, the Windsor doesn’t hold back. Wreaths and garlands drape across its balconies, twinkling lights sparkle from every corner, and the grand staircase looks like something out of a storybook.
When I first walked into the lobby, I just stood there, taking it all in. The woodwork is stunning, the atmosphere warm, and the holiday decor makes you feel instantly at home. Honestly, I could have spent my entire visit right there in the lobby, sipping cocoa and people-watching. But Americus had more holiday magic waiting outside those doors.
A Downtown Dressed for the Holidays
Strolling through downtown Americus during the holidays is a treat in itself. The storefronts don’t just hang a wreath and call it done; they transform their windows into elaborate holiday scenes.
One of the biggest thrills during my time in Americus was serving as a judge for the annual storefront decorating contest. Let me tell you, it was way harder than you’d think! Each shop poured creativity and heart into their displays. Some were whimsical, with bright colors and
playful touches that made children stop in their tracks. Others were elegant, the kind of displays you’d expect to see in a magazine. Every single one felt like a gift to the community.
As I walked block after block, clipboard in hand, I realized the contest wasn’t really about competition; it was about joy. What I witnessed was pure holiday magic. Families gathered at each window, children pressed their noses to the glass with wide-eyed wonder, and couples pointed out their favorites, smiling as they strolled along. The air buzzed with laughter and conversation, mingling with the carols drifting from nearby speakers. It was one of those rare moments when you feel completely present, wrapped in the glow of holiday spirit.
The Tree Lighting Tradition
Another highlight of my visit was the annual community tree lighting. This event is a big deal in Americus, and it shows. People arrive early to chat with friends, sip warm drinks, and eagerly wait for the countdown. The anticipation builds as the crowd grows, and by the time the switch is flipped, the energy is electric.
Standing there among strangers who felt like instant friends, I was reminded of why traditions like these matter. They’re about coming together as a community, sharing in something that’s bigger than any one person. That sense of connection is part of what makes Americus so special during the holidays.
All Aboard the Holiday Trolley
If you want to feel like a kid again, don’t skip the holiday trolley. Imagine climbing aboard a cheerful red trolley, the streets glowing with lights outside your window, and holiday music filling the air. As the trolley wound its way through town, I couldn’t stop smiling. I was just soaking in the moment— wide-eyed, full of wonder, and reminded of how simple joys are often the best ones.
A Community That Lives the Season
What struck me most about Americus was the way the entire community came together to celebrate. You could see the pride in the shopkeepers’ window displays, hear the joy in families laughing on the trolley, and feel the warmth in the way people greeted one another at the tree lighting. Americus during the holidays is the kind of
experience you’ll want to return to year after year.
Why Birmingham Families Should Go
If you’re in Birmingham and looking for a festive road trip this season, consider Americus. It’s far enough away to feel like a getaway, but close enough to make the trip without stress. Best of all, it offers an unforgettable holiday experience that lets you slow down, enjoy the season, and create lasting memories with the people you love.
As I drove back home from Americus, I found myself replaying the images in my mind: the glow of the Windsor Hotel, the whimsical storefronts, the festive trolley ride, the hush of the crowd before the tree lit up. It made me realize that holiday magic isn’t just in the movies or in faraway places. Sometimes, it’s just down the road, waiting for you in a small Georgia town with a big heart.
So, this year, if you’re craving a little extra holiday spirit, grab your family and let Americus wrap you in its Christmas cheer. Who knows? You might just find yourself living out your very own Hallmark holiday story.
Family
Memories Capturing
Kayla Morgan shares her unique approach to treasured snapshots.
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF KAYLA MORGAN
For Birmingham-based family photographer Kayla Morgan, making beautiful images is about more than just lighting and lenses; it’s also about telling each family’s story. Known for her calm approach and gift for putting even the most camera-shy at ease, Kayla has built a business rooted in connection in front of and behind the camera. Whether she’s photographing a family’s first newborn session or their annual fall portraits, her goal is always the same: to freeze time in the most meaningful way.
In 2017, while going to college and working in downtown Birmingham, Kayla spent lunch breaks and her time between classes walking and around and taking photographs. She posted her pictures on Facebook, and her hobby began to draw attention. “I loved to stroll around town and photograph old buildings and murals,” she says. “Pretty soon people were asking me to take their photos. The very first paid session I ever captured was a session for a family I’d known for years. Upon sharing the photos from their session, I began to receive interest from other families, which prompted me to start advertising and sharing my work more often.”
Kayla’s ease with kids did not go unnoticed by her new clients. One compliment in particular stood out. “People would always tell me how amazing I was with their children, including one mother with a special needs child who said no other photographer could ever get her child to smile and enjoy photos like I could. That’s when I really started to focus on taking “family” photos,” she says.
In 2021, her photography evolved again—this time thanks to the arrival of her first nephew. She began capturing every moment of his life with enthusiasm. “He instantly became one of my favorite subjects to photograph. I photographed him constantly, no matter where we were or what we were doing,” says Kayla. From state parks to
pumpkin patches and amusement parks, “you name it, and I would capture the most precious “candid” moments of him. The following year, my younger sister gave birth to my second nephew, and by then I’d become more comfortable and confident working with children. I really started to adapt and change my style to a more candid approach.”
Through photographing her nephews—and the no-pressure creative freedom that came along with it—Kayla realized children are at their most photogenic when simply allowed to be children. “They truly show their personalities when you allow them to play and be children, even during their photo sessions.”
As her family client base grew and her nephews got older—and harder to control—Kayla explains
that she found new ways to connect with kids, suggesting fun and playful prompts to their parents. “On occasion, I would have to pull out all the stops, whether that be wearing a spinning rainbow umbrella hat, incorporating bubbles, using shutter huggers, or making a fool of myself with crazy noises and dances,” she says. “Sometimes, I would have the parents laughing more than the children.” Her side hustle grew so much, and so rapidly, that Kayla soon quit her full-time gig to pursue photography alone.
Families who book a session with her can expect a relaxed, pressure-free environment. Kayla has a few pre-session tips. First: Let go of rigid expectations, especially with young children. “Be patient with your children, because I most certainly will be,” she says. “An experienced family photographer should have lots of tricks to help engage your child, and the session should be enjoyable for the whole family.” Don’t worry about scolding or bribing either. “It usually results in a meltdown anyway. “Try to plan around meals and nap times, because—I promise—it makes a huge difference,” she says.
Kayla also understands how overwhelming it can be to coordinate outfits, especially for large families, which is why she offers personalized, seasonal guides in a variety of color palettes, ensuring the process is as smooth as possible.
During a session, she encourages families to “come as you are, and leave the rest for me.” She allows time for breaks, play, and snacks, creating space for real moments to unfold. “I’ll be prepared to adapt to your family’s individual needs in order to capture
the essence of your family and the love that you share,” Kayla says.
When those picture-perfect moments don’t go as planned, Kayla doesn’t flinch. From handling camera-shy teens to weather delays, she’s seen it all. “I oftentimes will pull teens aside to a separate area for portraits, because they might feel more comfortable without mom or dad watching,” she says. “And I keep a “treasure box” in my car, and allow children to choose a prize at the end of each session.” She avoids mid-day shoots to reduce fussiness and squinting and offers reschedules when needed. “When it comes to weather, I like to choose
a location that allows for indoor photographing, and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens greenhouses are one of my favorites. If my clients are set on an outdoor location, we obviously can’t control the weather, so I’m flexible with rescheduling. I’ve been caught in a downpour before; you make the most of it! I’ve had the opportunity to capture some beautiful photos in a rainstorm.”
And, sometimes, the unpredictable creates the most magical memories. During one session at a state park, as thunder boomed, a family hurried to get in a few photos before the rain hit. “Without much warning, the sky fell out,” Kayla says. They ran for cover, but not before she captured the family sprinting through the rain. One image of their teenage son laughing with
pure joy became the mom’s absolute favorite from the entire session.
So what’s her message to families still on the fence about booking?
“Documenting your family in a way that preserves memories is a priceless investment,” she says. “One or both parents often get left out of photos because they’re the ones taking them... Booking a session with an experienced family photographer allows for family moments to be captured in a genuine, stress-free, and high-quality way.”
In the end, she hopes every family walks away from their session surprised—in the best way. For families who may be hesitant about booking a professional photo session, Kayla wants them to know that documenting their family in a way that preserves memories is a priceless investment. “One or both parents often get left out of photos because they’re the ones taking them, and booking a session with an experienced family photographer allows for family moments to be captured in a genuine, stress-free, and high-quality way that becomes a cherished family heirloom,” she says.
“I hope my clients always leave their sessions feeling excited to see the results of their shoots. I think it’s important to note that every family is unique, and setting specific expectations for your family is unrealistic. Trust me as your photographer to offer posing and prompt suggestions that will help us achieve the beautiful, special family moments that you desire.”
Fifth Graders Lead the Way in Building Community at Dolly Ridge Elementary
Recently at Dolly Ridge Elementary School, students gathered for a special GROW group meeting focused on building community and connection. During the session, family groups enjoyed a fun get-to-know-you activity and practiced their GROW group chant, strengthening relationships across grade levels. What made the day even more meaningful was that the groups were led by outstanding fifth graders, whose leadership and encouragement inspired their younger peers.
Mountain Brook Mock Trial Teams Advance to State Tournament
MBHS is celebrating an exciting accomplishment as two of its Mock Trial teams have qualified for the State Tournament in Montgomery this November.
One team is returning to State for the second consecutive year, while a new sophomore team has also earned a spot, marking an impressive milestone for the program.
This achievement reflects the students’ hard work, the guidance of coach Andrew Wilson, and the support of the school community. Appreciation goes to Andrew Wilson for his dedication and leadership, as well as to the parents who hosted and supported students during practices.
The administration is also recognized for championing this growing extracurricular program.
Mountain Brook High School Volleyball Team Wins Area Championship
MBHS volleyball team has clinched the Area 10 championship, securing their spot in the upcoming AHSAA Class 6A Regional Tournament. The Spartans dominated the area tournament, sweeping Huffman High School 3-0 in the final match.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the team, reflecting their dedication and teamwork throughout the season. The team’s success is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the players and coaching staff.
As the Spartans advance to the regional tournament, they aim to continue their strong performance and make a deep run in the state playoffs. The community looks forward to supporting the team as they represent Mountain Brook High School in the upcoming matches.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DOLLY RIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MOUNTAIN BROOK HIGH SCHOOL FACEBOOK
Drum Circle Brings Students Together Through the Power of Music
Thanks to a Rebel Innovation Grant, band director Leah Seng has introduced an inspiring new drum circle experience that unites special education students and sixth grade band members through rhythm and sound. Funded by the Vestavia Hills Board of Education, the grant provided high-quality drums and percussion instruments that now fill the room with music and joy. The smiles on students’ faces say it all; this project is about much more than music.
Mountain Brook High School Celebrates National Merit Semifinalists
MBHS is proud to celebrate its academically talented seniors who have earned recognition as National Merit Semifinalists. These students now have the opportunity to continue competing for some 6,930 National Merit Scholarships, totaling nearly $26 million, which will be awarded next spring.
The school’s National Merit Semifinalists include Sisi Holden, Emmy Grace Cribbs, Polly Allbritton, Eleanor Couch, Ada Dapkus, Jeb Blair, Leo Eriksson, Max Benton, Harrison Dobbins, and Zach Hendrickson. This achievement highlights their dedication, hard work, and outstanding academic performance throughout their high school careers.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS FACEBOOK
National Merit Semifinalists
Hoover City Schools announces that 17 students have been named Semifinalists in the 2026 National Merit® Scholarship Program. These students have demonstrated a high level of academic achievement and represent the top one percent of high school seniors in the United States.
Congratulations to our Semifinalists at Hoover High School and Spain Park High School:
• Hoover High School: Madelyn Bauman, Elijah Burns, Jacob Clary, Jay Glaves, Hasini Grandhi, Philip Mason, Aidan Naftel, Sara Roy, Allan Yuan
• Spain Park High School: Zaiden Ajani, Lane Allen, Alia Bush, Lorelai Kindle, Emma Nikolic, Allen Padgham, Sarah Phillips, Alexander Ritchey
Semifinalists now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships worth almost $26 million that will be awarded in the spring.
Students Shine at Leadership Academy
Student leaders from Hoover’s elementary schools recently came together for the Second Annual Elementary Leadership Academy, hosted by the Spain Park High School Student Government Association. Students engaged in activities ranging from problem solving and digital media creation to team building and personal reflection and explored what it means to lead with honesty, responsibility, and collaboration.
Special thanks to the SPHS SGA, sponsor Danelle Cash, Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox, and everyone who helped make this day possible for Hoover’s future leaders.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS
NOVEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR
Moss Rock Festival
November 1-2
The Moss Rock Festival is an eco-creative festival that celebrates art, design, nature, and sustainable living, featuring juried artists, live music, a beer garden, and various interactive experiences. Details at mossrockfestival.com.
Christmas Village Festival
November 5-9
Enjoy a festive holiday market at the BJCC featuring handmade crafts, seasonal décor, unique gifts, and a cheerful atmosphere perfect for family shopping.
More details at christmasvillagefestival.org.
78th National Veteran’s Day Parade
November 11
The heart of downtown Birmingham will come alive with patriotic pride as crowds gather to honor service members during one of the nation’s oldest and largest Veterans Day parades. More information at nationalveteransday.org/parade.
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
November 16
Share the joy of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet at The Alabama Theatre with family and friends and give the gift of a spectacular, memory-making holiday experience set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. Tickets and more details at alabamatheatre.com.
Market Noel
November 20-22
Market Noel, held at The Finley Center in Hoover and presented by The Junior League of Birmingham, brings together more than 100 unique and diverse vendors from across the country for a four-day shopping event. Special events include Preview Noel, JLB Hearts Birmingham, Milk and Cookies with Santa and Brunch with the Big Guy. More information at marketnoel.net.
Opening Night of Glow Wild at The Birmingham Zoo
November 22
Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo is a dazzling nighttime event featuring massive, glowing lantern displays that light up the zoo with vibrant colors and magical scenes for all ages to enjoy. Learn more at birminghamzoo.com.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NATIONAL VETERANS DAY BIRMINGHAM FACEBOOK
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO FACEBOOK
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