Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader - July/August 2025 by JBMC Media

BLUFF PARK RUCKERS

Neighbors transform walking with weighted backpacks into fun for all fitness levels

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JULY/AUGUST 2025 Holistic Health

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About Us

The Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader is a bi-monthly magazine published by JBMC Media, a Bluff Park-based, family-owned publisher of magazines in the Birmingham metro area. The magazine is mailed to more than 4,300 homes and businesses in the Bluff Park area.

Subscriptions are available to anyone outside our immediate mailing area for $30 per year. Email subscribe@jbmcmedia.com for details on how to subscribe or send a gift subscription. Does your business want to connect with Bluff Park residents? Call or email us: (205) 883-1877, advertise@jbmcmedia.com, and let’s talk!

All content in this magazine remains the property of JBMC Media, LLC. Any requests to reprint or republish should be directed to matthew@jbmcmedia.com.

Matthew Allen Publisher (205) 617-9609 matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Heather Jones Skaggs Content Director bluffwriter@gmail.com

Michelle Salem Haynes Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311 michelle@jbmcmedia.com

June Mathews Freelance Writer junebugwrites@gmail.com

Ashlyn is a dedicated dog trainer with nearly seven years of experience. She offers group classes, one on one in-home

board and trains, and more. Schedule a FREE evaluation online!

Meet Alabama’s Teacher of the Year. Bluff Park’s own Katie Collins. PHOTO BY MOLLY SMITH

Cover Designer

Shweta Bratina Graphic Designer

Emily VanderMey Listo Operations & Project Manager Graphic Designer

Kyle Foshee Community Columnist

George Elliott Community Columnist

Molly Smith Photographer

Editor’s Note

As the summer sun shines bright and a new school year approach, our July/August issue brings you three inspiring feature stories that celebrate community, innovation, and excellence. First, George Elliott spotlights Alabama’s Teacher of the Year, Katie Collins, whose dedication, and creativity are shaping the future of education in remarkable ways. Next, Kyle Foshee takes a weighted walk with Jacob Blink and the Bluff Park Ruckers for an unforgettable journey. Lastly, June Mathews dives into into the transformative world of holistic practices with three Bluff Park ladies.

Have you met Bravo? Well, we got the scoop on Bluff Park Elementary newest addition! We are also celebrating the class of 2025 in our photo albums and those just beginning their school life in elementary school.

Heather Skaggs, Content Director Instagram: @bpal_heathers_corner

Teacher of the Year

Every child can learn. Every child is uniquely gifted. Every child has a purpose in life that only he or she can do.

“My job is to help them find their purpose… to teach them that the world is bigger than Bluff Park or wherever they are… to instill in each child that learning never stops. That’s why I teach.”

BY GEORGE ELLIOTT

PHOTOS BY MOLLY SMITH

Katie Collins, a first-grade teacher at Bluff Park Elementary, says she has always been teaching. Even during her kindergarten years at All-Saints in Homewood, she remembers loving everything about school and coming home each night to rehash the day’s lessons with her sister, her first pupil. Later, at Shades-Cahaba Elementary, in fourth grade, she continued her journey to becoming a teacher under the guidance of Ann Dominick Hardin, who, a few years later, was named Alabama’s first Teacher Of The Year.

Collins grew up in Homewood. Her father is a physician from Indiana, and her mother, who holds a Master’s in Public Health, is from South Florida. She has two sisters, Emily and Elizabeth.

During her years at Homewood High, she played varsity basketball, sang in show choir, was a member of the National Honor Society, and served as president of the Ushers Club, whose members served as the school’s ambassadors. Katie graduated from Furman University with a degree in French, as Furman did not offer an undergraduate degree in education. She also studied in Versailles, France, and in Quebec. Later, she received her education degree from UAB.

During her summers, she worked as a lifeguard at several locations: West Homewood Park, Glenwood Mental Health—where she taught water aerobics to clients with autism—and Lakeshore, where she worked with people with disabilities as well as the geriatric population.

When sitting and talking with Katie Collins, her five major, self-admitted character traits keep bubbling to the surface. She says she’s empathetic, passionate, caring, creative, and driven, and she truly is. Additionally, she loves people as a “hobby” and believes she’s gifted in recognizing other people’s gifts and showing them that they have something to say and do that no one else has.

“My teaching career has been a series of interesting journeys,” said Mrs. Collins. “My first teaching job was at Thompson High School, where I combined my UAB student teaching requirement needed to obtain my final teaching certificate with teaching high school French, serving as the ACT Preparatory instructor, the computer teacher, and the JV and varsity basketball assistant coach. That was from 2005 to 2007, and when I finished, I was certified to teach English as a Second Language (ESL).”

“Next, I went to Gwin Elementary to teach EL, enjoying every minute of working with kids from many different countries. While I spoke French, I

found that the primary language of my students was Spanish; therefore, I applied for and received a grant to study in Mexico,” Collins said.

I stayed in a homestay with a Mexican woman, Martha, and attended a language school because I had no prior Spanish classes. Through this experience, I learned what it feels like to be a stranger in a new country, similar to many of the immigrant families at my school, diving headfirst into a new culture and language. During this time, I started a blog (katiesinmexico.blogspot.com) that helped me process my experiences, deepening my empathy for the people I was teaching.

Upon my return, my colleagues, Wendy McBride, Rebecca Salas, and I started the Communities Family Literacy Program, an EL program for the families of Hoover City School students. This program provided language support to parents as well as pre-emergent literacy skills to younger siblings. We wrote several grants and invested a lot of time and love to establish this much-needed program from scratch, but looking back on it, it was a ‘sweet time’ in my life,” she said.

“Next, while I was pregnant, with my twins, I started teaching full-time French and EL at Simmons Middle School 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Middle school students were funny and fun, and we formed some true bonds while I taught and they learned.”

PHOTO BY MOLLY SMITH

Katie Collins, Alabama’s Teacher Of The Year for the 2025/2026 school year.

“But, something was missing. I felt a pull to teach in my own classroom, with a community of children who would stay longer than solely a single class period allowing for an even stronger community of learning to take place. So, I became certified for Elementary K-6. Having previously taught at Gwin Elementary and loving the diverse community, I spent the next three years teaching first grade, where I loved every minute of setting a strong foundation for future learning.

During my third year at Gwin, I became pregnant with my third child. Given that I had three kids, all under three, my husband and I decided it would be best for our family if I taught preschool for the next few years at Covenant Day School, allowing me the opportunity to teach where my children attended school. I taught at Covenant Day School for two years, working with both two- and three-year-olds. This experience gave me an even stronger realization of the significance of early learning opportunities and the role of play in learning

During the second year of my ‘sabbatical from public school,’ I had the opportunity to be the adult instructor at the Family Literacy Program. It was a full-circle moment for me as I got to teach in the program that I helped pioneer in Hoover City Schools. It was a fun time for me since I was teaching both two-year-olds and adults. Despite the age gap, it was clear that education unlocks opportunities and transforms lives for the better.

Collins began teaching at Bluff Park in 2017. In her first year, she served as a 5th-grade teacher, and for the next seven years, she returned to the first-grade classroom.

“I believe in Project-Based Learning”, she emphasizes. “For instance, the class was learning about George Washington Carver and The Life Cycle of Plants. The students planted lots of tomatoes, peppers and basil in Carver’s honor. To make their learning come even more alive, the first graders put on a Farmer’s Market, tying in all different standards from math, science, reading

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AL Weddings

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and social studies. Students naturally learned about money, needs vs. wants, measurement and informational and persuasive writing. What a learning experience! The first year they raised about 800 plants and $800,and it has grown to a market where they sell over 3,000 plants and make thousands of dollars for Bluff Park’s Farm-2-School Project Based Learning account,

In Katie’s first-grade class, the students also have a hydroponic plant garden. They are growing lettuce and even dealing with invasive caterpillars.

Now, all of Katie Collins’ diverse teaching experiences, her innovative “learn by doing” methods, her belief in positivity and enthusiasm, as well as her “learning can be fun” attitude, have earned her the respect of her fellow elementary school team members and the state’s education leadership. That respect led to Collins’ selection as Alabama’s Teacher of The Year on May 7.

Collins credits the never-ending support of her husband, Brian and their four children, 13-year old twins, Luke and Ellie; Kaleb (10) and Grant (7) and their dog, NOLA for any successes she has had in teaching. They have always been there, from cooking meals, washing and folding clothes to giving good advice. A case in point…the night she received her award was her and Brian’s 20th wedding anniversary, and it was spent recognizing her outstanding teaching abilities.

So, what now? Well, for starters, Collins points out that her award is not just for her. It’s for all of the 55,000 teachers throughout Alabama who work hard day in, day out to make a positive difference in the lives of their students.

Mrs. Collins will be given a paid year’s leave of absence from Bluff Park Elementary. During the year, she will conduct professional development sessions highlighting the amazing things that Alabama teachers are doing each day.

One way she plans to do this is to prepare and present frequent podcasts from the “Apple” car, which she’ll be driving around the state, compliments of ALFA , She and Aubrey Bennett, the alternate “Teacher of the Year” and a teacher at George Washington Carver High School in Birmingham will be interviewing teachers with gusto from around the state, giving each one the chance to share his or her exciting, innovative teaching methods. It’s an endeavor that will seek to build a stronger collaboration among teachers , allowing for a more widespread distribution of noteworthy ideas and lesson plans.

“Of course, I’ll also be doing a series of other professional development presentatations, speaking

at annual conferences such as the AEA conference and in a number of other venues. And, I certainly will be making it a point to interact personally and directly with teachers whereever I go.”

“Teaching is an awesome profession! Teachers lay the foundation that society is built upon,” Collins says.

“Most people can remember a teacher who empowered them in their life. My role in the coming year is to encourage teachers to continue making an impact in the lives of their students. I hope to highlight that teachers make an invaluable difference to our economy, to our cultural endeavors, to the lives of both students and their parents.”

“Teaching is getting harder and harder,” Collins stresses. We are not just teaching subject matter these days. We’re dealing more and more with mental health issues that children face. …the trauma they bring to school from their homes and from other relationships. Today, we are not only teachers, but counselors, too, and I know many teachers who are not alone in coping with the enormous responsibilities that continue to be added to our plates, other than teaching.”

“One area that I would like to bring light to is the importance of promoting childhood independence in our youth. We need more awareness in this matter as there is a direct link to staggeringly high anxiety and depression among youth due to the

PHOTOS COURTESY HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

overprotection of our children in the real world and the underprotection of them in the virtual world.”

“How does the script get flipped? It starts with teachers! We must educate ourselves, students, and parents on how our brains work, healthy limits regarding technology, the importance of play and project-based learning, mindfulness strategies and tools, and, finally, the value of how learning requires us to let failure happen. I am a parent of four kids myself, and I think it is a natural tendency to want to protect our kids. Research shows, however, that we must stop removing barriers in our kids’ lives. We must let them experience adversity as part of the learning process so they can gain the resilience needed to thrive on their own… the tools they will need to stay well-grounded in our rapidly moving technological society.”

Collins and her husband came to Bluff Park in 2005. Their real estate agent told them that they would probably stay 2.3 years. It’s now been 19 ½ years, and they have no plans to leave. Bluff Park, Collins said, “is a place where deep roots grow quickly, where it’s easy to make lifelong friends. This community is strong, always helping each other…it’s a community that cares. You don’t have to fit into a box in Bluff Park. You don’t have to keep up with anybody. You just have to enjoy life in this wonderful community.”

“We are members of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, and I work with a City ministry that partners with Parker High School. I also help with putting on events through our Women’s Breath Ministry,” she said.

“I would like to see more places to eat in Bluff Park that you could walk to. I’d like to see the mall where the old Piggly Wiggly is fully developed into a business, restaurant, cultural, and entertainment center. Additionally, I hope the Fresh Air Farm can be reopened to the public, allowing children to play in its Narnia-like atmosphere. It truly is a magical place.”

When one interviews Katie Collins or is around her, you go away knowing that everything is going to be o.k., and that you’ve just had a little bit of sunshine scattered on you. Her first-grade students have always known this. Now, during her year as Alabama’s Teacher Of The Year, everyone in our state will learn to appreciate her positive outlook, her innovative teaching methods that help children learn to be their best in all they do, and the way she leads other teachers by example

In a world where everything often seems the same, Katie Collins is cut from a different pattern, one that will always make a lasting difference in all the lives she touches. Congratulations, Katie. We are so proud of you.

Introducing Bravo

Dog is Bluff Park Elementary’s New Furry Facility friend

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS COURTESY ALLISON DOLAN

Exciting news from Bluff Park Elementary! A new employee is coming to the school, and they can’t wait to introduce you to Bravo, the furry new facility dog! Bravo is not just any pup; he’s a certified support companion through FIDOS Facility Dog, an organization that connects professionals in healthcare, education, non-profit, and government with specially trained facility dogs to those they serve.

We spoke with Allison Dolan, Bluff Park’s Library Media Specialist and Bravo’s handler, to delve into all things Bravo—his training journey, his significant role in the school community, and the experiences that await the students and staff.

What is the role of the facility dog at Bluff Park Elementary, and how will he support the emotional and social development of students?

Bravo will be another employee at our school who is there to provide comfort, support, and friendship to all students. He is trained to remain calm in all situations. I’ve been telling the students we’re getting Bravo to be our best friend. They can tell him their secrets, read to him, hug him, and he will love them back.

As Bravo’s handler, does he live with you, and what is your role with him?

Bravo will start home visits with us around 12 months. This will help him acclimate to living with our family. Once FIDOS determines that Bravo is ready for his on-the-job training, he will live with us on a full-time basis. We will bring him to school and take him home at the end of every day. It will be our responsibility to get him the care he needs, like food, exercise, grooming, and vet visits.

What kind of training do dogs in the Facility Dogs program undergo, and how does this training prepare them to interact with students and staff?

FIDOS Facility Dogs is training Bravo now. It is an 18-24 month process. In the beginning, the focus of training is obedience and socialization. He also participates in many public outings. He is about to start his on-site training and

will continue that through the upcoming school year. This training helps him become familiar with the school and its staff. When Bravo is around 12 months old, I will begin handler training. This is where I will learn how to handle and advocate for Bravo throughout the day, both when he is working and resting, so that everyone understands how to interact with him.

How will the Bravo be integrated into the school’s daily routine, and what specific activities will students be able to participate in with him?

Bravo will mainly be with me in the library. Every student visits the library at least once a week during their designated time, but the library is always open for checking out and returning books. I hope that

Bravo brings many students into the library regularly. Bravo can also make classroom visits. He will also participate in all our school-wide activities, such as house meetings, Vocabulary Parade Day, and Field Day. He has already started costume training, which is

In what ways do you anticipate the presence of Bravo will impact the overall school environment and the well-being of students and staff?

Research shows that facility dogs in a school reduce anxiety, stress, and improve mood and social interactions among the students and staff. I hope that Bravo brings so much joy. I can already see it. The couple of times that he has stopped by the school, everyone smiles so big. You’re just happy around him.

Can you share any specific goals or outcomes that the school hopes to achieve through the implementation of the facility dog program?

I foresee him helping students in many ways, such as comforting the new kindergartners as they start their day, reading with struggling readers, sitting beside students who need a break, or providing deep pressure therapy. On a personal and professional level, I also hope he helps get students back into the library and reading! Bravo can sit with students while they read, aloud or to themselves. I love the idea of this. The more reading, the better!

Tell us about Bravo’s Instagram.

Our amazing social media person (and 5th grade teacher), Sierra Hutchins, has created his Instagram page. She passed out Bravo pics to the staff and asked that we take him on our adventures. So, I’m not sure where he will go, but I’m excited to see! I check regularly to see if there are new updates.

Follow Bravo on Instagram – @BluffParkBravo

Learn more about FIDOS facility Dogs - fidosfacilitydogs.org

GO RUCK

Try a weighted backpack for wellness

BY KYLE FOSHEE

In January 2024, Sarah Woodall embarked on a weight loss journey that involved a combination of diet, exercise, and support from family and friends. One such friend was her next-door neighbor, Jacob Blink. Jacob and Sarah initially started competing to see who could take the most steps each day. These competitions eventually evolved into neighborhood runs, but for Blink, a seasoned member of the Alabama Army National Guard with two deployments to the Middle East, there was a pleasant alternative to running that he thought Sarah might want to explore.

Rucking is straightforward. You grab a backpack, add some weight, and walk. Why?

Because it’s what you do in the Army, and as you age, which I’m told is the general preference after considering all alternatives, and your knees don’t function quite as they used to, rucking allows you to burn more calories than simply walking while still being gentle on those creaky joints.

The Army standard for rucking is a fifteenminute-per-mile pace, and that includes carrying anywhere from forty-five to over one hundred pounds in the pack, plus your weapon. If Blink started with this information when trying to convince Woodall to ruck, it’s no wonder Sarah was hesitant to jump into what was, for her, uncharted territory.

Sarah, an artist and marketing professional

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from Vestavia, has shed more than 130 pounds in eighteen months. The idea of carrying around extra weight and walking with it was something she preferred to leave in her past rather than revisit as a hobby.

However, when Jacob showed up for a morning run in November with a twenty-pound ruck prepared for her, she relented. That day, they walked for four miles. Sarah was hooked, and running suddenly seemed less amusing.

Sarah appreciates the opportunity to chat while moving at a slower pace, which helps the body maintain proper breathing. She also describes rucking as the perfect combination of burning calories and exploring with friends.

Jacob, an IT manager at Samford’s Brock School of Business, seems to prefer the peace of a daily 5:00 AM ruck in solitude, but if two’s company, three’s a crowd. Could Jacob maintain his morning peace and enjoy the crowd later? He had a plan.

Enter GORUCK, a veteran-owned, global rucking brand.

They design their own rucksacks and host events modeled after basic training and distance races, including a twelve-miler in Birmingham this November that Jacob hopes to participate in as a group. However, GORUCK requires three members for a group to become an affiliate, so Jacob needed to persuade more neighbors to participate in rucking.

He found one right across the street.Jordan May became the official third member to form what is now known as Bluff ParkRuckers, an official unit of the GORUCK community. Bluff Park’s rucking group dons a logo that features a Tip-Top color scheme and sunset, created by Sarah.

What does it mean to be an official GORUCK group? Well, you can walk together through Bluff Park, chat about how great Bluff Park is, and earn some sweet patches to stick on your rucksack. For example, the Bluff Park Ruckers held an 80s Mixtape Ruck one evening, and participants received a mixtape patch.

PHOTO COURTESY JACOB BLINK

Bluff Park Ruckers gather for a Thursday ruck.

When ruckers complete their first 5K with the club, they also get a patch. Recently, thegroup hosted a “pizza ruck” around Moss Rock and concluded at Vecchia Pizzeria for a patch – and pizza.

The group has grown to around twenty-two members and meets weekly on Thursdays at 5:45 pm at Shades Crest Baptist Church on Park. After an initial route that had limited sidewalk space, the path now makes a short loop on Lester, Cloudland, and turns on Rockview back to Park Avenue. This is where those with prior plans can dip out and head back to the church.

However, for those who have a little more energy, turn right and make another loop. Thesecond time around, they take Lester down to Clearview, over to Savoy, and back up toPark Avenue. Then, it’s back to the church. The entire trek is about three miles total, and if you have enough weight on, you’ll feel every bit of those 15,000+ feet.

So far, participants have ranged in age from two to seventy-four, eliminating most excuses for not trying it at least once. Strollers are not lacking, and a motorized wheelchair has even been spotted on Thursday evenings. Some participants carry very little weight. Some carry forty-plus pounds. Rucking is accessible to all ages and stages, so Jacob and Sarah invite you to GO RUCK!

PHOTO COURTESY JACOB BLINK

Photo courtesy Jacob Blink

CLASS OF 2025

Photo Album: Grads

Sawyer G Walt M

Anabelle B

Emily K Reagan P

Colby L

I’ll

These are educational in nature and there’s no obligation required.

To receive the seminar schedule – please email your request to julie@thematuremove.net.

Photo

Ashton H

Landon S Lauren W

5th Grade Parade

Middle School Bound

Photo

James M

Sylvie S

Anne Ross P, Georgia W, Sophie P, Mollie Y, Mattie Major P Diane W, Olivia B, Alice P, Molly D, Violet J, Maisie M

Jase S, Levi S Petrus M

Langston P, Lisi H, Harper L, Adelinn K, Addison P Mrs Tron’s class

Silas P, AB H, and Sawyer G

Matthew B. Beidleman, MD

Non-Surgical Sports Medicine Physician

Elbow, Foot & Ankle, Hand & Wrist, Hip, Knee, Shoulder

Christopher H. Garrett, MD Sports Medicine Surgeon

Elbow, Hip Preservation, Knee, Shoulder

Alabama Crimson TideTeam Physician

Thoracic & Lumbar Spine

of Hunter Home Builders, LLC

DeFalco, his wife Olivia, and daughter Reagan

Six Ways to Make Kids & Parents Easier for

By Heather Jones Skaggs

As summer draws to a close and the new school year approaches, both kids and parents can feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Transitioning back to school can be challenging, but with the right preparation, it can also be a smooth and positive experience. Ashley Sahai, a school counselor at Bluff Park Elementary School, shares some of her own insights and practical tips to help families navigate this transition. From establishing routines to fostering emotional awareness, these strategies aim to support children and parents alike as they navigate the back-to-school journey together.

1. Establish, discuss, and practice your morning/bedtime routine for school days before the first day of school/night before. Talk about why routines are so important. Practice drop-off at school and show them what it will look like (including which doors they will enter, where they will be dropped off, etc.). If not a new-to-BPES student, talk about what worked last year and what could be done differently in the upcoming plan!

2. For younger kids and newly incoming students, practice asking for help, following multi-step directions, taking turns, and playing games (both winning and losing), as well as being independent (dressing themselves, cleaning up after themselves, making lunch choices, opening containers, etc.).

3. Discuss their feelings. Acknowledge their concerns and anxieties, and assist them in learning the words to express their emotions. Identifying emotions and developing a strong emotional vocabulary is empowering!

4. Hype up school and learning at home! Read books about starting school, and talk often about what school will be like. Help build their confidence to take big steps!

5. Don’t stop learning! If you’re going on vacation, have your kids research fun facts and history about the places you will be visiting.

6. Mornings can be tough! Talk with your kids (especially older ones) about your expectations. Do they need to pack their own snacks the night before? Lay out their clothes? Let them know they have the power to make their mornings run smoothly! Giving them responsibility shows you believe in their ability, which helps them build confidence.

MAXIMIZING ROOF LIFESPAN

The Right Way to Ventilate Your Roof

Proper roof ventilation is a critical component of a well-functioning roofing system, designed to regulate temperature, prevent moisture buildup, and extend the lifespan of roofing materials. Roof ventilation works by allowing cool, fresh air to enter through intake vents, typically located along the soffits, and expelling warm, moist air through exhaust vents near the roof’s peak. This continuous airflow prevents heat buildup in the summer, which can cause shingles to age prematurely, and reduces moisture accumulation in the winter, which can lead to mold growth and structural damage. According to the International Residential Code (IRC), the recommended minimum ventilation ratio is 1 square foot of ventilation for every 300 square feet of attic space, evenly split between intake and exhaust for balanced airflow. Contrary to common belief, more ventilation is not necessarily better, over-ventilation can disrupt the natural balance of intake and exhaust, creating turbulence that reduces efficiency and increases the risk of moisture problems.

When re-roofing a home, it’s an ideal opportunity to evaluate and optimize the roof’s ventilation system. Older homes often have outdated or inadequate ventilation that may not meet current building codes. During re-roofing, contractors can install additional vents or upgrade to more efficient systems, such as ridge vents or solar-powered attic fans. However, it is crucial not to mix different types of exhaust vents, like box vents, turbines, and ridge vents on the same

roofline. Mixing ventilation types can short-circuit the airflow, causing some vents to pull air from others rather than drawing fresh air from intake vents. This imbalance can trap moisture and heat inside the attic, leading to mold growth and reducing the roof’s lifespan.

At HHM Roofing & Construction, we understand that proper ventilation is key to maximizing your roof’s performance and longevity. Our team of experts are trained to identify ventilation issues that could cost you money and risk your home’s structural integrity. By scheduling a complimentary property inspection, you can rest assured that our licensed professionals will thoroughly evaluate your roof’s ventilation system, ensuring it is balanced, code-compliant, and designed to last. Protect your investment with a trusted partner who prioritizes quality and customer education, call HHM Roofing & Construction today.

Ryan Hoerl HHM Roofing & Construction License # 31635

Welcome to Kindergarten

Parker G

Waylon H

Wells B

Asher K

Avelyn and Aubrey M

Eliza G

Elliott P

Emmie F

Emory G

Grafton M

Isaac H

Jack K

John Thomas T Johnny K

Joseph D Nash C

Juliette B

Layla W

Logan G

Lucy S

Molly M

School Safety

Hoover Police Department offer tips for a great year

It is important to prioritize safety for both our children and drivers in the community. With bustling school zones, awareness and patience are essential for ensuring a smooth transition back to the classroom. To help you navigate this busy time, we’ve compiled a list of key safety tips from the Hoover PD designed to promote a safe and enjoyable start to the school year! The Hoover PD has also provided a listing of popular apps for parents to be mindful of.

• Drivers, slow down! Watch for parents and kids who walk to school each day.

• When entering a school zone, be sure to slow down and obey all traffic laws.

• Leave early and give yourself extra time when dropping off children at school and picking them up. There will be more parents driving kids to school the first few days, and carpool lines will be longer. Remember, there will be new parents at every school who are not as familiar with the drop-off routine. Be patient, please!

• Carpool if possible, to reduce the number of vehicles at each school. Using school buses also reduces drop-off point congestion.

• Do not text and drive, and do not text while sitting in carpool lines! The safety of our kids deserves our 100% attention!

• In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection.

• Watch for crossing guards and police officers and obey their signals.

• Instruct children to only cross streets at designated crosswalks, street corners, and traffic-controlled intersections.

• Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you’re on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children. If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop.

• Caution teen drivers to slow down and avoid the use of cell phones while driving.

• Be patient. We expect most congestion issues to be resolved within the first few days of school.

• Drive safe, eliminate distractions, and let’s have a safe and wonderful school year!

OMEGLE is an app with the slogan: “Talk to Strangers!” It allows users to socialize with others without the need to register. The service randomly pairs users in one-on-one chat sessions where they chat anonymously using the names “You” and “Stranger”.

ASK.FM allows anyone to post anonymous comments and questions to a person’s profile OSKfm and is increasingly being used as a means to communicate abusive, bullying, and sexualized content.

MEETME is a dating social media app that allows users to connect with people based on geographic proximity. The app encourages users to meet each other in person.

KIK MESSENGER is an app used for communicating with friends in group chats or direct messages. But also allows you to chat with strangers by accessing public chats to talk about interests or by using the search function.

DISCORD is a voice and text chat tool that allows gamers to communicate in real-time while playing video games. This app discusses content geared towards adults but allows users as young as 13.

CALCULATOR% is one of several “vault” style or secret apps that appears to be a harmless app, but is used to hide photos, videos, files, and browser history.

Body and Soul

Three women’s vision for one-stop holistic health takes shape

BY JUNE MATHEWS

Many cultures consider mountains symbols of strength, stability, and places of divine revelation. Mountains are revered for their awe-inspiring presence and perceived nearness to the heavens, sometimes serving as backdrops for human encounters with God.

So perhaps it’s no accident that three Bluff Park women, who share a vision for offering an array of holistic healing services under one roof, met on the mountain they call home. Marge Doyle, Janice Martin, and Deb Paradise, all seasoned professionals in their chosen fields, are excited about the possibilities their joint venture brings to Hoover.

“We came together under Janice’s vision of a place where practitioners of various healing arts could work together,” said Marge, a priest, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, and chaplain. “She knew of my spiritual direction skills and Deb’s fusion of art, trauma work, and meditation.”

But the vision, insists Janice, a licensed counselor with 25 years of experience, is not hers alone but came about through the three women’s personal histories, synchronicity, and divine intervention.

“From meeting Deb, literally over our back fence, and knowing Marge from being in the same community, we began sharing

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From left are Janice Martin, Deb Paradise, and Marge Doyle.

NEWLOCATIONCOMINGSOON!

“I started at SDG in the fall of 2023. Each morning, Abby’s workouts challenge me to be better than I was the day before. She is encouraging and motivates you physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’m thankful to have SDG and Abby in my community, where I can be myself, grow as a person, and also encourage others along the way.”

Laura Powell

“I first came to SDG because I needed some push beyond my solo garage workouts. And I certainly get that! But I’ve stayed consistent because of the community SDG has built. The people make it! The endorphins don’t hurt either. I’m stronger and have plenty of energy to keep up with my 3 boys, and I appreciate the emphasis on our whole selves, not just our bodies!”

Mary Beth Peach

“Joining has been a transformative experience for me. It’s the perfect combination of community and fitness, allowing me to get to know other amazing people in the neighborhood. Abby has a unique talent for pushing us hard in workouts, yet she always knows just how far to encourage us without going beyond our limits. She makes every session feel tailored to our individual needs with plenty of laughs and good music!”

Emily Ness

Continued from Page 34

philosophies, spirituality, ideas of how we were serving and wanted to continue, and how we could expand our services throughout the area,” said Janice. “These and other factors organically weave together to create our shared vision and work.”

Deb said Janice’s vision aligned with her own thoughts about forming a coalition of practitioners to give all of Hoover, a community growing not only in numbers but in diversity, more options in terms of the number and variety of holistic services now available.

“I often work with clients who are working with a traditional therapist, and I function as an adjunct and support of that work,” Deb said. “It can become a very powerful synergy.”

Among the group’s current offerings are traditional therapy, spiritual direction, and alternative work through meditation and energy work. The vision also extends to adding more teachers and facilitators in areas such as yoga, Tai Chi, and other practices that promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

“We have a beautiful classroom just waiting for the right folks to come along,” said Deb.

An added bonus is the practice’s location on the edge of Bluff Park, a neighborhood known for its natural beauty.

“Our offices are immersed in a wooded area of green and sunshine, much like our homes are,” said Janice. “After moving to Birmingham 30 years ago, I was always drawn to this area and moved here 16 years ago. I later realized the attraction was due to Bluff Park’s similarity to the Noccalula Mountain area where I grew up. It has the same gentle spirit and feel of the mountains of North Alabama.”

But the heart and soul of the practice is its three practitioners, who often use their combined knowledge, experience, and caring ways to enrich clients’ lives. Though they share office space at Century Park South and work together depending on client needs, Marge, Janice, and Deb maintain separate business identities.

Marge Doyle (Anam Cara Center for Spiritual Direction)

After retiring as rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in early 2025, Marge opened her practice in spiritual direction, the art of helping another person sense the movement of God in their lives, particularly during painful or confusing times. She named her new business Anam Cara, which means “soul friend”.

“In my practice, I teach many forms of spiritual experience, using meditation, the word, poetry, art, music, aromatherapy, and nature,” Marge said. “Each person’s needs and path are unique. Spiritual direction is different from counseling, yet the two intersect well. Thus, someone may have a therapist and a spiritual director.”

The Anam Cara Center also serves as a confidential place for clergy

to share their challenges in the ministry. Having served in church ministry herself, Marge can lend an understanding ear to the burdens of such a calling.

To reach Marge, call or text (870) 688-3774 or email her at celticmuse52@gmail.com.

Janice Martin, Ed.D., LPC-S (New Paths Counseling)

“My formal education brings the clinical aspects of counseling and behavioral health to our work,” said Janice.

Over the years, she has done additional studies and teaching in the field of natural health education, martial arts, Reiki and energy work. She has also pursued studies in hydrotherapy, relaxation, meditation, and more.

“Many clients seek counseling due to life circumstances and difficulty managing those situations and resulting symptoms,” Janice said. “Often, people just need a little support getting through and moving past these difficulties. At other times, such as when dealing with trauma and loss, a more clinical approach is needed.”

Janice works with people ranging in age from preteen to elderly, seeing individuals, couples, and families. She is comfortable working with people of various cultures, belief systems, spiritual beliefs, and nationalities.

Call (205) 307-9490 to schedule an appointment with Janice.

Deb Paradise (The How of Tao Meditation)

“I had an awakening experience 35 or so years ago, which brought me to the deep study and practice of Transformation Meditation with a Taoist/Buddhist teacher,” said Deb, whose business name reflects her core focus.

She explained that transformation meditation is a foundation for living a more connected and mindful life. Building on that foundation, she helps clients from all backgrounds and experiences move past traumas, addictions, and unconscious blocks to create freedom in their lives.

“I have many kinds of training in bodywork, energy work, and breath work, all aligned and connected to my practice of meditation,” she said.

Deb is also a professional artist with works hanging all over the world.

“My meditation work informs my art, and my art informs my practice of meditation,” she said.

The best ways to connect with Deb are via text at (205) 994-5506 or by emailing her at debparadisearts@gmail.com. For more information on her work, visit her website at debparadise.com.

Bluff Stuff with Kyle Foshee

Beautiful View

I got an electric bike for two reasons: One, to get in shape, and two, to watch the sun.

The electric aspect of these bikes is designed to serve as an assist; it was never intended to completely power the vehicle. I mean… I don’t use it that way. But that’s what they’re meant for. Supposedly, a full charge can reach fifty miles. I might get five. Therefore, my primary reason for acquiring this bike was a bust.

So let’s move on to reason number two.

Many of my weekday mornings start with a run up and down Park Avenue, with distances varying, mostly determined by my fluctuating opinion of what exactly is worth it. But now and then, I find myself awake simply because that’s what my body and mind do these days, and running doesn’t appeal to my inner self. So I ride.

Sure, it’s silly. Until my ride stops at the top of Jamestown Drive. At the risk of overcrowding that hill at dawn with old souls on electric bikes, I can attest that I’ve found it to be the best spot in Bluff Park to watch the sunrise.

And at the end of the day, the bluff offers views that cause even my two-year-old to exclaim, “Wook!”

The fine residents along Shades Crest Road have politely gone to great lengths, asking us not to park on their property to watch the sunset. Long before the ropes and signs were placed as a final end to the madness, trespassers lined the mountainside. I never tried it, but I was tempted. And while I’m within easy walking distance, I ride my bike to the old Tip Top, where a front row view of the sunset can be witnessed every evening that isn’t overcast.

How is it that these natural phenomena, which repeat like clockwork, remain as mesmerizing today as they were yesterday?

And the day before that?

First and foremost, it’s probably because I’m a softy, but I think it’s also that no two are the same, just like fingerprints and snowflakes. Each one leaves its mark on today. And today – despite our monotonous schedules and our incredulous desire for “something new” – will never be repeated.

It doesn’t matter how great today was; the sun will set tonight. And it doesn’t matter how gloomy the night is; the sun will rise in the morning.

That’s enough reason for me to see every one.

PHOTO COURTESY KYLE FOSHEE

Residential & Commercial HVAC

Preventative Maintenance, Repair, & Replacement for HVAC & Water Heaters

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Owner - Joseph Cummings Bluff Park Native

Hoover Belles Welcome New Members

The Hoover Belles, a service organization for teen girls who serve as representatives for the city, held its 42nd annual presentation ceremony for new inductees at the Riverchase Country Club on May 4, 2025.

Each member of the new class of Belles has committed to serve two years, volunteering at least 40 community service hours at civic and charity events including city events, local summer camps and church and local non-profit volunteer work.

Former Hoover Belle, Haley Bagwell Scallions, served as mistress of ceremonies, announcing each Belle and her presenter. Mayor Frank Brocato congratulated the young women on their selection as a Hoover Belle, and welcomed family and friends. The Hoover Belle Committee was responsible for the day’s event. Bar-

School Briefs

bara Henry and Shelley Shaw served as co-chairs of this year’s event. Additional members of the Hoover Belle Committee include President Melinda King, Jennie Alley, Donna Bagwell, Jennifer Cotney, Jaime Guess, Cathy Head, Beth Lyda and Kay Witt.

Simmons Girls Golf Team Shines at Birdie Bash Tournament

The Simmons Girls Golf Team made headlines at this year’s Birdie Bash Tournament, held on March 18th at Highland Park Golf Course. Competing against teams from Berry and Bumpus, Simmons proudly secured the title of Co-Champions. The team members, Avery Lee, Audrey King, Rachel Polk, Evie Blanchard, and Simone Cox, showcased their talent and teamwork, bringing home this prestigious honor.

New Hoover Belles who live in Bluff Park include Anna Louisa Fisher, Madison Morris, Callie Wallace, and Scarlett Worley.

Over 200 guests attended the event, enjoying music played by Tri City Jazz.

Ness Earns Spot on AISA All State Golf Team

The AISA State Golf Tournament took place on May 5th and 6th at Pines Crossing Golf Course in Auburn, AL, with 77 players participating. Seventh grader Will Ness from Heritage Christian Academy tied for 4th place with a two-day total of 148, just 4 over par, after shooting rounds of 73 and 75. Ness earned a spot on the AISA All-State Golf Team. This year was special as it marked the first time Heritage Christian Academy had a golf team, consisting of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders who primarily competed against high schoolers. The team finished 4th out of 9 teams that qualified for the tournament.

Matter

Sasha Popova receives Bluff Park Art Association scholarship

Sasha Popova, a student at Spain Park High School, is the 2025 recipient of the Bluff Park Art Association’s annual Art Scholarship Award. The award is given to a Senior Art student who is going to pursue art, in some form , as a career. The daughter of Snizhana and Alexander Popova, Sasha plans to go to Auburn and hopes to major in architecture.

Ms. Popova is a Spain Park High School Ambassador, giving tours and hosting events at her school. She is also President of the Art Club; serves on the Student Government Association; and has been a member of the school’s tennis team.

“We’re so proud of Sasha,” said Ashley Lemley, chair of BPPA’s Scholarship Committee. “She is so talented and her art is beautiful and haunting at the same time, and most meaningful“

“My favorite things to paint are flowers and landscapes, but the ones I entered in the competition were different from what I usually do,” Sasha said. My parents, my sister and I are Ukrainian, and, I’m sure you know our country is in the midst of what has turned out to be,a very long war. The artwork I presented highlighted the war’s effect on our country, particularly on one little girl named Nadia.”

When asked what words best described her, Sasha was quick to answer. “Yes, I have some talent, and I guess I can be charming, but I’m also self-assured, joyful, and optimistic, but I can be brutally honest, too,” she emphasized. All of these are good traits that can flow through her mind to the brushes that will put her stories on the pages before all of us.

Movie Night: Bash on the Bluff

The Bash on the Bluff committee hosted its first summer movie night in June featuring the nostalgic favorite, The Sandlot. The event transformed Oris and Oak into a community gathering under the stars. Around 200 attendees enjoyed the evening on a 55-foot inflatable screen with camping chairs and blankets.

Food was provided by Ladybird Taco, Dixie Dogs, and the Bluff Park Women’s Rec League, which sold pizza to support female athlete scholarships. The Bluff Park Men’s Wiffleball League also contributed $300 worth of ice cream for the community. Instagram @bash_on_the_bluff

Sasha Popova poses with Ashley Lemley of the Bluff Park Art Association Scholarship Committee and Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato.

PHOTOS COURTESY BLUFF PARK ART ASSOCIATION

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BASH ON THE BLUFF

Comprehensive Dental Care and Luxury Aesthetics in the Heart of Bluff Park

by Ashley Rogers

Kasey Davis Dentistry and Aesthetics is known for offering exceptional dental care to patients in and around the Bluff Park community. With a multitude of dental services available to patients, many don’t realize that the practice is also a hidden gem for aesthetic services. Dr. Davis hopes to help patients gain more than just a brighter smile.

Along with top-notch cosmetic dentistry, adult orthodontics, general dental care, and implant restoration, the staff at Kasey Davis Dentistry offers patients treatments to boost their confidence, give them clearer skin, and so much more. The practice offers Botox and Hyaluronic Acid treatments for balanced skin enhancements, the Aerolase Neo Elite Laser to address acne, rosacea, targeted hair removal, and

skin rejuvenation, as well as ZO Skin Health products for radiant skin.

Whatever services you need, Dr. Davis said, “Our goal is to enhance your natural beauty while delivering a serene, elevated experience.” Her desire is that each patient feels like family and can trust the staff’s expertise to help them achieve their oral health and aesthetic goals.

To find out more about Kasey Davis Dentistry, you can visit kaseydavisdentistry.com. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram to learn about special deals and promotions. You can also call or text (205) 822-7277 to schedule an appointment. The office is open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and open every other Friday.

Ambrose Kitchen & Bath

Best Interior designer

Best Kitchen and bath remodeler

Amy Anderson

Best Local artist (paint)

Bash on the Bluff

Best Outdoor festival or event

Bill White Roofing and Specialty

Best Roofing company

Bluff Park Art Show

Best Local art show

Bluff Park Elementary School

Best Elementary school (public)

Bluff Park Hardware

Best Hardware store

Ellason Mortgage Group -

Rachel Trowbridge

Best Mortgage office

Gerber Collision & Glass

Best Body shop

Green Care Landscape

Best Home lighting company (exterior)

Best Landscaping company

Best Yard maintenance company

Hoover City Schools

Best Local public school system

Hunter Home Builders

Best New home construction company

Myers Tree Service

Best Tree removal service

Piggly Wiggly

Best Grocery store

Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, & Electrical

Best Electrical company

Best HVAC company

Best Plumbing company

Window World

Best Window and door company

CITY OF HOOVER NEWS

U.S. News & World Report ranked the City of Hoover #25 in its “250 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 20252026” report, marking the second national accolade for the city in a month. Previously, livability.com had recognized Hoover as #15 in its “Top 100 Best Places to Live in the US” list for the second consecutive year. Mayor Frank Brocato expressed gratitude for these honors, attributing them to the city’s commitment to excellent quality of life, support for schools, and appreciation for local businesses.

Mayor Brocato emphasized that the priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens. This recognition reflects the teamwork and dedication of city employees and volunteers who contribute to community engagement. According to U.S. News & World Report, topranked cities must show value, desirability, a strong job market, and a high quality of life.

You can read the entire ranking for Hoover by going to: realestate.usnews.com/places/alabama/hoover

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS DISTRICT NEWS

The NAMM Foundation recently recognized Hoover City Schools as a Best Community for Music Education, an honor awarded to just seven school districts in Alabama and 935 nationwide.

The Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

“We are proud of the meaningful learning opportunities our music programs provide,” said Dr. Kevin Maddox, Superintendent of Hoover City Schools. “This recognition reflects the passion and dedication our educators bring to classrooms, rehearsal spaces, and performances across our schools and the incredible talent and hard work our students pour into their craft every day.”

This award recognizes the collaborative efforts of the teachers, administrators, students, families, and community partners of Hoover City Schools who have integrated music education into a well-rounded education.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Bargains On The Bluff Fall/Winter 2025 Sale!

July 4 Consignor Registration opens.

Dates for the Fall sale:

September 11 Preview Day (Consignors and Volunteers shop)

September 12 Public Sale

September 13 Discount Day (Select items are 50% off)

For more info and to sign up to consign or volunteer, go to: bargainsonthebluff.com

Hoover City Dad Brigade

July 12, 7:00 a.m.

The Tenth Annual Hoover City Dad Brigade is an annual opportunity for volunteers to help spruce up the Hoover City Schools before the start of the school year. For more information and to register, scan the QR code.

Bluff Park United Methodist Church

Vacation Bible School - True North

July 14-18 8:30am-12pm

Open to ALL kids rising 4K-5th Grade (2025/2026) Walk-ins are welcome.

Birmingham Community Church

July 25 Youth float on at Terrapin Creek. July 30 Back to School Cookout