Enjoy Hoover - September/October 2023

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Hoover, Spain Park tee it up for a new season PAGE 6

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Festivals not to miss FUN FALL OF FAB

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Hoover Library releases its 40th anniversary calendar PAGE 23

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Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 3 ITALIAN INSPIRED FOOD WITH A TWIST. TRELUNABARANDKITCHEN.COM 1021 BROCK’S GAP PARKWAY LUNCH: WED-FRI, 11-2 HAPPY HOUR: MON-FRI, 4-6 DINNER: MON-THURS, 4-9 & FRI/SAT 4-10 SERVED IN OUR WARM, ENCHANTED EATERY.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Dear Readers,

Love all things fall? You’re in the right place. While this year’s first official day of autumn is September 23, local stores started stocking sweaters, seasonal home décor, and Halloween candy as early as July. Whether you measure fall by the calendar or the first available PSL, this issue is for you!

To be honest, I always considered myself a summer person. Well, until I moved to Birmingham from South Alabama. For the first time, I encountered leaves that changed colors and temperatures that beckoned me outside. There’s a beauty in the changing of summer to fall you don’t get to experience along the Gulf Coast. For 15 years, pops of red, yellow and orange leaves have brightened my mid-fall morning commutes.

Equally impressive are the community-wide art shows, festivals, hayrides and theatre performances that September and October bring to Hoover (pages 18 and 23). Football is a favorite local pastime, and our local high schools are ready to welcome fans to game day (page 6). As the temperature turns cooler, shop a favorite local boutique for trendy jeans, sweaters and more (page 15).

No matter how you choose to usher in the season, we think you’ll find plenty of ways to Enjoy Hoover while you do! Happy Reading!

Enjoy Hoover is your guide to dining, entertainment, and shopping in Hoover, Alabama’s sixth largest city. From major events like the SEC Baseball Tournament, the World Games, and the Regions Tradition, to local live music, to hidden gems in local shopping, to the world-class lineup of restaurants, Hoover has tons to offer to residents, guests, and visitors alike.

Enjoy Hoover is published six times a year, a joint venture between David Cohen of the Hoover Restaurant Alliance, Matthew Allen of JBMC Media, and Mitzi Eaker of Mitzi Jane Media. These three longtime Hoover residents blend a passion for their community with years of experience in communication, publishing, marketing, and hospitality.

Copies of this magazine are available at more than 100 locations throughout Hoover. Connect with us through our social media channels: Instagram (@EnjoyHoover) and Facebook ( @EnjoyHoover). Visit us online at EnjoyHoover.com.

We hope you Enjoy Hoover!

David Cohen, co-publisher (205) 213-3617, enjoyhoover@gmail.com

Matthew Allen, co-publisher (205) 617-9609, matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Mitzi Eaker, co-publisher (205) 862-0629, mitzijanemedia@gmail.com

Michelle Salem Haynes, marketing consultant (205) 381-1311, michelle@jbmcmedia.com

ABOUT THE COVER

Hoover Restaurant Week is back for its fourth year, with lots to showcase in the world of food and beverage in Hoover. Featured on the cover is a craft cocktail at Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen, one of the many HRW participating restaurants this year. Photo by Shelby Graves, Tre Luna Bar & Grill.

4 Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023

happened Her cure

Kennedi is cured of sickle cell disease thanks to a life-changing bone marrow transplant she received from her sister here at Children’s of Alabama. The amazing treatments, discoveries and innovations for pediatric blood disorders and cancer happening here are helping change lives for the children of Alabama, across the country and around the world.

ChildrensAL.org

Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 5
hooverlibrary.org
CURE_Kennedi-Enjoy-Hoover-4.75x3.7-PROD.indd 1 8/8/23 11:14 AM

Two Teams, One City

Schools Are Ready for a New Football Season

Stadiums are packed with cheering fans. The lights are bright. Fans are cheering. Concessions are flowing. Music is playing. Athletes rush the field. It can only mean one thing: it’s a Friday night in Hoover, Alabama.

High school football is a popular fall pastime

across the South. Hoover is fortunate to be the home of two Class 7A football teams: the Hoover Buccaneers and the Spain Park Jaguars. These local teams go head to head on September 8 at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

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Helping Hoover families enjoy pest-free outdoors since 1965. (205) 663-4200 vulcantermite.com Serving Jefferson & Shelby Counties

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THE HOOVER BUCS

The Hoover Bucs, led by Coach Wade Waldrop, entered the new season as the 2022 Region 3 Champions. Last year, the team advanced to the semi-final round of the 7A playoffs, where they lost to reigning State Champions, the Thompson Warriors.

Coach Waldrop, who is in his second season with the Bucs, is determined to find a way to bring home the State Championship trophy. This means keeping the team playing their best well into the postseason, something that starts off the field.

“It goes back to how you approach offseason workouts,” he told the Hoover Sun. “Teams that start to embrace that and have an appreciation for the things that you have to do to be successful, those are the teams that find a way to

play their best football late.”

THE SPAIN PARK JAGS

It’s a new day for the Spain Park Jags. The team, who has experienced five consecutive losing seasons, is taking a turn for the better. And it’s in the way they carry themselves, Head Coach Tim Vakaes shared in a recent interview with the Hoover Sun. Confidence like this is vital when playing to win.

Under the leadership of Coach Vakakes, who is now in his second year with the Jags, the team has gained strength and experience. They are ready to take the next step and propel Spain Park football in a positive new direction.

“They’re ready to go, they’re ready to play, they’re ready to win and change this program,” said Coach Vakakes. “These kids change programs. That’s what you’re starting to see

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HOOVER BUCS
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here. It’s starting to change.”

HEADING TO THE GAME? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!

HOOVER BUCS

Where: The Hoover Bucs play throughout the metro area, but all home games are held at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, located at 5508 Stadium Trace Parkway.

Cost: Admission is $12 plus parking.

Head Coach: Wade Waldrop

Mascot: Buccaneers or Bucs

Team Colors: Black, Orange and White

Key Games: A complete schedule can be found at hooverhighathletics.com.

First Game: August 25 vs. Auburn at the Hoover Met Complex. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Homecoming: September 29 vs. Mountain Brook at the Hoover Met Complex. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Last Game: October 27 vs. Thompson at the Hoover Met Complex. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Important: The Hoover Met is a cash-free facility that only accepts cards or digital transactions for tickets and concessions.

SPAIN PARK JAGS

Where: The Jags play throughout the metro area, but all home games are held at Spain Park High School, located at 4700 Jaguar Drive.

Cost: Admission is $12.

Head Coach: Tim Vakakes

Mascot: Jaguars or Jags

Team Colors: Caroline Blue, Black and White

Key Games: A complete schedule can be found at spainparkathletics.org.

First Game: August 25 vs. Calera at Spain Park High School. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Local Rival: October 27 vs. Oak Mountain at Oak Mountain High School. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Last Game: November 2 vs. Pelham at Spain Park High School. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m.

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SPAIN PARK JAGS

IT’S GAME TIME

Grab a bite and cheer on your team at these four Hoover hotspots

Hoover is home to dozens of sports bars and eateries, all offering their own unique menu items, drink specials and fun atmosphere for your family and friends to enjoy this football season. Listed below is just a sampling of Hoover’s fine restaurants, along with what makes each one perfect for sports fans.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MOE’S BBQ Moe’s BBQ offers catering to make game day even more fun.
Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 11 Enjoying this magazine? So are thousands of other people in Hoover. Advertise in a publication owned and operated by Hoover residents. Contact us today, and let’s work together. Michelle Salem Haynes michelle@jbmcmedia.com (205) 381-1311 We are partnered with TriLift which is the first treatment on the market to use Dynamic Muscle Stimulation in combination with radio frequency technology to tone muscles, reduce wrinkles, and smooth the surface of the skin. We offer preoperative and postoperative massages using manual lymphatic drainage and other techniques. Cryoskin Laser Treatments Cellulite Body Treatments Emsculpt Slimming and Toning Treatments Other services provided are: 3057 Lorna Rd, Suite 103 Hoover Call us to make your appointment today! 205-953-2416

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BEEF ‘O’ BRADY’S

Address: 5519 Grove Boulevard

Phone Number: (205) 987-9464

Store Hours: Contact Store for Hours

Inspired by founder Jim Mellody’s love for sports, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s is filled with big-screen TVs, a full-service bar, sports memorabilia and a party room! Try their award-winning wings in 12 signature flavors. Play it safe with Garlic Parmesan, kick it up a notch with Sweet Tai Chili, and go for it with the new Mango Habanero or the ultimate—the Atomic! Not in the mood for wings? Try their popular

Philly cheesesteaks or their delicious Boom Boom Shrimp. Menus are donned with an Irish blessing to welcome customers. On weekends, rewards members get double the points on their purchases. Enjoy dinner on the beautiful patio or watch the big game inside!

MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

Address: 1031 Brock’s Gap Parkway, Suite 191

Phone Number: 205-985-8841

Hours: Daily from 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Moe’s Original BBQ has been named one of the Top 10 Barbecue Chains in America by

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BEEF ‘O” BRADY’S Enjoy your favorite sports team and a cocktail at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s.

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USA Today and The Daily Meal. Known for its “Alabama-Style” barbecue with its bold, spicy red sauce and mayonnaise-based white sauce, the specially selected meat is cooked “low and slow,” dry-rubbed, smoked and sopped with vinegar sauce. Gameday brings an extensive catering menu, perfect for effortlessly tasty tailgating food! Catering packages come with pulled pork and your choice of two sides served with buns or grilled cornbread, plus BBQ sauce and pickles.

Those not in the mood for barbecue will love the Southern Fried Catfish with hush puppies. Enjoy traditional sides like cornbread, banana pudding, baked beans, potato salad and macaroni and cheese, but also look for daily surprise sides like fried okra, skillet corn or sweet potato casserole.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS

Address: 2772 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 100 Phone Number: 205-985-983-9484

Hours: Opens daily at 11:00 a.m.

Buffalo Wild Wings offers New York Style

Buffalo wings with 28 signature sauces including its Desert Heat, Asian Zing, Nashville Heat and Jammin’ Jalapeno. Come in for gamedays to grab a beer, munch on a special party wing platter (it’ll feed 50-150!) and watch your favorite team dominate on multiple T.V.s located throughout the bar and dining room.

Craving something besides wings? Enjoy appetizers like beer-battered onion rings, Dirty Dubs tots, Buffalo Chicken Tots and Everything Pretzel Knots. BWW also offers plenty of varieties including the Southwestern Black Bean Burger or the Bacon Smashed Hatch Chile Burger. And while you’re there, try the Blazin’ Challenge, if you dare!

WALK-ONS BISTREAUX AT STADIUM TRACE

Address: Two locations at 6401 Tattersall Park Drive and 5249 Peridot Place

Phone Number: 205-224-9810

Hours: Sunday – Thursday from 11:00 a.m .to 10:00 p.m. and Friday – Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m

Walk-Ons Bistreaux is “Game Day with a Taste of Louisiana.” With 69 TVs throughout

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BUFFALO WILD WINGS Buffalo Wild Wings has countless TVs, a full-service bar and endless options for wings.

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the restaurant, you won’t miss your favorite game at Walk-Ons. Football season also brings linited time offer wings like Sweet Chile, Spicy BBQ, Buffalo and Lemon Pepper. Try exotic appetizers like Fried Alligator or Devils on Horseback (fried jumbo shrimp, cream cheese,

pickled jalapeños, wrapped in bacon). Louisiana classics like Raggin’ Redfish, Voodoo Shrimp’n Grits and Cajundillas make up the main dishes. Salad lovers will love Zydeco or Avery Island. After that winning touchdown, toast your team with one of their signature drinks including the Blueberry Coconut Mojito or Tiki Rumbull.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF WALK-ON’S UAB football players take a break from training for dinner at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.

Pants Store

Hoover’s One-Stop Shop for Fall Trends

Thank goodness for the Pants Store. We’ve shopped here for gifts, with my niece for sorority recruitment, and for my youngest daughter. But my love for this local shop grows abundantly each time my savvy teenager finds clothing that: 1) I approve of 2) Meets our local school’s dress code rules and 3) She’s excited to wear.

And we are not alone in this thought process. Turns out, a lot of Pants Store customers are moms like me shopping for the whole family,

girls ages 11 and up looking for cute outfits, and football fans prepping for game day, said Piper Campbell, Pants Store social media manager.

For game day specifically, you’ll find racks of orange and blue, and crimson and houndstooth. Some options are preppy, while others – like a sequined tiger t-shirt I HAVE TO HAVE – are more unique. Among the water bottles, Goodr sunglasses, acrylic trays, and Kendra Scott jewelry are a display of clear cross-body bags, which are a must for attending football games,

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Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 15
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PANTS STORE Alabama and Auburn fans can find game-day-ready outfits, shoes and purses.
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concerts and festivals.

As the cooler weather creeps in, girls can stock up on sweaters, crop flare jeans and booties, while guys can find jeans, khakis, and button-downs. Of course, don’t forget to check out the wall of shoes before you go. In my experience, they can make or break an outfit.

As one of six Pants Store locations throughout Alabama, the Hoover store opened at Stadium Trace Village in October 2022.

They are “a one-stop shop and carry the hottest brands at the lowest prices,” said Piper.

But Piper says her favorite thing about working at Pants Store has nothing to do with fashion. “Since this is a third-

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16 Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 SHOP
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Shop the latest fall clothing and accessory trends for men, women and children.

Find school-approved looks in kid, tween and junior

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generation, family-owned business, it is like working with a big family,” she shared. “Getting to interact with different customers makes for a fun, fast-paced atmosphere!”

The Pants Store is owned by Michael Gee and has locations in Hoover, Crestline, Leeds, Auburn, Huntsville and Tuscaloosa. Hours are Monday-Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can also shop anytime at Pantsstore.com.

Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 17 SHOP
sizes.

Fall Celebrations We Love

It’s fall, y’all! The season is notorious for pumpkins, flannel, football and pumpkin spice everything. But, here in Hoover, it’s also synonymous with seasonal fun, including markets, hayrides and festivals. Grab your family and friends and make plans to attend these fantastic community-building events that only come once a year.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ALDRIDGE GARDENS

MADE IN BLUFF PARK

cutting boards | Charcuterie trays

bathtub caddies | bed swings

stovetop covers | tables | planters

shelves | bookcases

custom orders accepted

facebook: @deogloriawoodworks

Instagram: @deogloriawoodworks

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DEO GLORIA WOOD WORKS

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TASTE OF HOOVER

Taste of Hoover is an annual event at Aldridge Gardens featuring many of the best cultural varieties of restaurants and caterers in Hoover. Sample menu items and beverages while walking through the beautiful gardens and listening to live music.

Local favorites like Merks Tavern, The Happy Catering Company, Michelle’s Chocolate Lab, Tre Luna Catering and Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen, East 59 Cafe & Catering, and The Whole Scoop Ice Cream Shop, and more are expected to attend.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BLUFF PARK ART SHOW Past Bluff Park Art Show Winner, Craig McMilli, a ceramic artist from Folsom, Louisiana.

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When: Thursday, October 5th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Aldridge Gardens at 3530 Lorna Road Tickets: $45 for Aldridge Gardens members and $50 for the public Website: aldridgegardens.com.

VINTAGE MARKET DAYS

“Sweater Weather” is the theme of this year’s Vintage Market Days which features unique holiday and home decor, boutique clothing and live music by Rachel Wilson and American Idol contestant, Ethan Slaughter.

“We attract tried and true vendors,” Vintage Market Days owner Kim Denard said. “We try to keep a sprinkling of new and upcoming vendors that offer everything vintage, antiques, plus-size clothing and even children’s books.”

Vintage Market Days is a three-day event with giveaways every 15 minutes. The first 100 guests with pre-sale tickets will receive a goodie bag, and the first 25 bags will contain anywhere from $5 - $100 to spend at any vendor.

When: Thursday, September 28 – Saturday, September 30; See website for daily hours. Where: Finley Center at 5508 Stadium Trace Tickets: $17 for VIP and $12 for General Admission. Prices increase to $20 and $13, respectively, at the gate.

Website: vintagemarketdays.com

BLUFF PARK ART FESTIVAL

Now celebrating its 60th anniversary, the Bluff Park Art Show has been voted as Best Community Event by Hoover’s Magazine and the Hoover Sun for the last three years. What began as a local fundraiser for Bluff Park Elementary Library, now attracts thousands of

visitors. Artists from across the country submit their artwork several months in advance with hopes of being selected for inclusion in the show.

Bluff Park Art Show Spokesperson Heather Skaggs said around 130 artists from around the state and country are expected this year. “Each artist selects one painting for judging in Best of Show,” Skaggs said. “Everything the artists bring is for sale, except for the winning item.” This year’s judge is Debra Riffe, a local artist and printmaker.

“It will be great because we’re back in our original location and people can sit and relax out of the sun. We’ll have food trucks from favorites including Eugene’s Hot Chicken, GR’s Smokehouse, and Southern Coffee and Waffles,” Skaggs said.

Musical entertainment will be provided from10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. by Jordan Beam and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. by The Bearded Gents.

HAY HOOVER

Formerly Hoover Hayride and Family Night, this beloved event returns as Hay Hoover for the second year. The fall festival is enjoyable for all ages. Come shop local vendors, grab a bite to eat from popular food trucks, play in the Kids Zone, and of course, take a hayride around the park.

When: Saturday, October 14 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Where: Veterans Park at 4800 Valleydale

Tickets: Admission is free.

Website: mossrockfestival.com.

MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL

Now in its 18th year, the Moss Rock Festival

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is continuing its tradition of exploring themes of nature, smart living, art and design, and more to positively impact the environment and community. Attendees will enjoy live music and dance performances. The Beer Garden will also be back for its 12th year featuring more than 50 craft beers from local brewers.

“This year we’re drawing inspiration from Alabama Tourism’s Year of Alabama Birding, featuring the Audubon Society and birds from the Wildlife Center,” Marketing Director Alex Kunzman said. “We are also launching a new website designed by Kinetic Communications with new artist and exhibitor interfaces, features, and more.”

When: Saturday, November 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where: Hoover Metropolitan Complex at 5500 Stadium Trace Parkway

Tickets: Check the website for up-to-date admission information. Website: mossrockfestival.com.

22 Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023
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PHOTO COURTESY OF MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL Art and design is one of the key themes of the Moss Rock Festival.

Performances to Remember

Library announces new season

Get ready for an extraordinary musical journey as we present the 2023-2024 season at the Hoover Public Library’s Theatre. Prepare to be mesmerized by diverse performances that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

October 5 & 6: Seth Mulder and Midnight Run - Bluegrass at its Finest!

Kick-starting the season, Seth Mulder and Midnight Run will treat you to a high-energy

show filled with tight harmonies, skillful musicianship and a perfect blend of traditional bluegrass and original songwriting. Their international acclaim and accolades make them one of the most talked-about young bands in the bluegrass circuit today.

November 2 & 3: Beth Nielsen ChapmanA Journey of Legendary Songwriting

Join us for an enchanting evening with the

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY Seth Mulder and Midnight Run
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incomparable Beth Nielsen Chapman, as she takes us on a musical journey through her 15 albums and seven #1 hits recorded by music legends like Elton John, Bonnie Raitt and Willie Nelson. Her latest album, “Crazy Town,” will leave you captivated.

January 30 & 31: The World-Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra - Swingin’ to the Classics

Step back in time with the world-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, considered the greatest big band of all time. Let the timeless melodies of “In the Mood” and “Tuxedo Junction” transport you to the golden era of music. With an 18-member ensemble, their live performances are a treat not to be missed.

February 18: John Waite - 40 Years of Missing You

Experience the magic of John Waite, a musical legend known for his powerful ballads and driving arena rock hits. Join us for an unforgettable night as he performs his charttopping singles like “Missing You” and “When I See You Smile” - a nostalgic journey through his illustrious 40-year career.

March 21 & 22: Mac McAnally with Eric Darken - A Celebration of Musical Brilliance

Don’t miss the extraordinary talents of Mac McAnally, a 10-time CMA Musician of the Year, and Eric Darken, a percussion virtuoso. Together, they will create a night of musical brilliance to inspire you.

April 11 & 12: Carousel - In Concert - The Classic Musical Revived

Prepare to be swept off your feet as Ciarán Sheehan, Broadway’s star, brings Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless musical “Carousel” to life. Experience this classic’s grand sweeping score and lasting popularity, backed by a superb cast of fellow Broadway veterans.

May 2 & 3: Rissi Palmer - “Southern Soul” Unleashed

Closing the season on a high note, Rissi Palmer will leave you spellbound with her soulful performances and genre-blending talent. Her commitment to diversity in music and her uplifting work in the industry make her a true inspiration.

Mark your calendars for these sensational performances that promise to elevate your musical experience to new heights. The Hoover Public Library’s Theatre is proud to present a season filled with extraordinary talent, captivating melodies, and unforgettable moments. We look forward to sharing this musical journey with you! To purchase tickets, visit www.thelibrarytheatre.com

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Rissi Palmer

Get the perfect FALL PHOTO

Tips from Photographer Allison Carpenter

It’s that time of year again—fall festivals, warm celebrations with family and friends, and showing our love with food and gifts. But along with it all comes something many of us would just as soon do without: photos. Tons of photos. Impromptu and sometimes unflattering (and, unfortunately, sometimes posted online without our knowing), it leaves many of us running from the roaming camera.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALLISON CARPENTER PHOTOGRAPHY.
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Enjoy Hoover caught up with longtime local professional photographer Allison Carpenter, who has plenty of suggestions to make this year’s fall photos your best, from deciding on the best locations and backdrops to advice on posing (or, in some cases, not posing!).

CHOOSE A LOCATION

Deciding on a location and time should be the

first step. When it comes to scenery, Carpenter calls Hoover with all its city parks an “untapped gem.”

“Aldridge Gardens has lots of options for photo settings,” Carpenter said. “It has great parking and lots of restrooms for large family gatherings. It is so pretty, with a lake with a walking track around it and benches all over the place.”

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A couple of her other favorites are the Preserve Clubhouse and the area near the Cahaba River Bridge.

“I would say 98 percent of the people I work with don’t know where they should have photos taken,” she said. “I have to kind of direct them by making suggestions, like if they want to be in grassy woods or near a bridge. Any place with autumn leaves falling or on the ground. And they need to decide morning or afternoon, as that can affect the lighting.”

PICK A PERFECT OUTFIT

Once a location and time have been decided, making sure your clothes don’t clash with the background is essential.

“Avoid patterns, as they can get busy,” she said. “Since moms are usually in charge of family photos, I tell Mom, find an outfit you really like, and then make sure everyone else’s clothes complement it.”

For example, she said, if the main person is wearing navy blue, everyone else should wear gray, khaki, or off-white. Jewel tones also work well in the fall, so if one person wears red, others can wear purple or pink.

JUST BE YOURSELF

As far as posing, she recommends standing more at an angle rather than fully in front of the camera, as standing in sunlight can often cause

squinting. But not posing and looking more natural is often the better idea.

“I try to engage [my clients] in conversation while taking photos After that they don’t feel as uptight about what they’re doing. People are always surprised at how much better their pictures are when they don’t look stuffy or posed.”

ALLISON’S TIPS FOR WINNING PHOTOS

• When taking small children’s photos make sure you get down to their level and capture them at their eye level.

• For family or group shots, it’s best to make sure you bring the subjects in tight and not have too much space between their heads.

• To offer flattering photos of adults, especially women, it’s best to be above your subject matter shooting downward at them, this will elongate the neck and the body.

• Make sure you capture fun activities such as ring-around-the-rosy, red light/ green light, or even something as simple as walking down a path together.

Enjoy Hoover September/October 2023 27 MAKERS
To book your family photos with Allison Carpenter, call 205-201-9768 or email her at AllisonCarpenterPhotography@gmail.com. Also, visit her Facebook page at facebook.com/Allison.Carpenter. Photography. 26

Hoover Libray celebrates 40 years

The Hoover Library is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. In anticipation of the 80s-themed celebration, we sat down with Amanda Borden, the library’s director. Amanda shares how she became involved in librarianship, what sets the Hoover Library apart, and plans for the upcoming anniversary!

Enjoy Hoover: Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming the Director of the Hoover Public Library as the Director.

Amanda Borden: I was introduced to the Hoover Public Library in 1992 while pursuing my MLS degree at the University of Alabama. I was grappling with whether librarianship was the right fit for me, given that librarians were typically seen as quiet, which wasn’t quite my style.

Linda Andrews, the Director of the Hoover Library, came and spoke to our class. Her talk made me realize this was exactly where I wanted to

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HOOVER VOICES
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA BORDEN AND THE HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY Amanda Borden serves as the director of the Hoover Public Library.

work, even without seeing the place in person. Her vision for the library went beyond just being a library. She saw it as the heart of the community. There was art, theater, and special events—the place was alive with activity. I decided to do an internship there in the Spring of 1993.

After I finished my studies, I started working as a children’s librarian at the Birmingham Public Library. I worked at different branches, including the downtown one, the Springville Road branch, and the Pelham Public Library in Shelby County. Then, in 2001, I heard about the opening for the Children’s department manager position at the Hoover Library and applied for it.

That’s where my journey took a new direction. I headed the children’s department for about five to six, then worked as an Assistant Director for around ten years, and now I’ve been in my current position for a little under seven years.

EH: What’s a fun story you have experienced working at the library?

Amanda: Funny story—I met my husband here, kind of. A mutual friend introduced us through social media, and as we talked, I found out he had never been to the Hoover Library. So, I invited him for a tour, and that’s how it all began. Even when it was time to meet his kids, who are now my stepdaughters, they came to the library for a visit on a Saturday while I was working.

EH: What has contributed to the library’s nationally known success?

Amanda: The success of the Hoover Library has multiple facets.

First and foremost is Linda Andrews, who was the founding director and the only other director besides me. Her groundbreaking vision played a huge part in making the Hoover Library stand out.

Another key factor of success is the unwavering support we’ve always received from our leaders and the community. There’s always been a shared understanding that what we have is special, and everyone is invested in its continued success. The community uses our services, and our leaders keep backing us up with the necessary funding.

And then, of course, there’s the library staff. They’re the real driving force—passionate, dynamic, and always developing innovative ideas to serve the community better. Whether it’s setting up free libraries across the city or leading ESL classes, everyone here is dedicated to making the library and Hoover itself a better place.

EH: Tell us about the big milestone approaching in October.

Amanda: The library first opened its doors in River Oaks on October 8, 1983. It was all about big hair, shoulder pads, arcade games and pop music back then. As we approach our 40th anniversary, we plan to take a trip down memory lane. We’re going all out with 80s-style music, food, games, and more. Turning 40 is a big deal, so we want to make it a fun celebration, and we’re hoping our patrons will join in on the excitement!

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Embrace all the fall has to offer, right here in Hoover! Shop a farmers market, run a 5K, enjoy local festivals, listen to live music, take a hayride and more.

SEPTEMBER

September 1: Hoover Public Library Theatre

Individual and multi-show tickets go on sale for the library theatre’s 2023-2024 season. To purchase, go to thelibrarytheatre.com.

September 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30: The Market at Brocks Gap

Shop farm-fresh produce, crafts and goods from area farms and local makers. Every Saturday, rain or shine, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Brocks Gap Brewery.

September 9: 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and Memorial Stair Climb

Come to Riverchase Galleria for a ceremony and stair climb to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of September 11. Go to hooveralabama.gov to purchase tickets for the stair climb that is equivalent to 110 stories. Proceeds benefit Hoover Public Safety Charity Foundation.

September 10: Together in Teal Live Butterfly Release for Ovarian Cancer Awareness

Come to Aldridge Gardens where 400-600 painted lady and monarch butterflies will be released to honor and remember those whose journey has included ovarian cancer. Sign up at cureovariancancer.org.

September 19: Minority Christian Women Entrepreneurs Network Meetup

Connect and network with like-minded women from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at Werkplās. Purchase tickets at mcwen.com/upcomingevents.

September 16: Celebrate the Family Expo

Birmingham Christian Magazine highlights the importance of family at its 4th annual expo. Enjoy free activities for kids and adults, live music, cooking demos, product samples and freebies the entire family will enjoy. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex.

September 23: 14th Annual Head Over Teal

30 Enjoy Hoover September/October
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Join the 5K, 10K or Family Fun Day to support research, awareness and financial support for GYN cancer patients and their families. Races begin at 8:00 a.m. at Hoover Preserve. Visit thinkoflaura.org to register.

September 28 – 30: Vintage Market Days

Listen to live music while you shop unique holiday and home décor, including vintage and antiques, plus boutique clothing, children’s books and more. Vintage Market Days is held at the Finley Center. For details and tickets, go to vintagemarketdays.com.

OCTOBER

October 5: Taste of Hoover at Aldridge Gardens

Sample menu items and beverages from a variety of the best restaurants and caterers in Hoover from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Details at aldridgegardens.com.

October 5-6: Seth Mulder and Midnight Run

Kick off the Hoover Library Theatre’s 2023-2024 season with this perfect blend of traditional bluegrass and original songwriting. For showtimes and tickets, go to thelibrarytheatre.com.

October 7: 60th Annual Bluff Park Art Show

Held at Bluff Park Community Park, the show features more than 130 artists, both local and from around the country. Stay tuned to bluffparkartassociation.org for details.

October 7, 14, 21 and 28: The Market at Brocks Gap

Shop farm-fresh produce, crafts and goods from area farms and local makers. Every Saturday, rain or shine, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Brocks Gap Brewery.

October 14: Hay Hoover

Shop local vendors, enjoy a Kids Zone and take a hayride from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Veterans Park.

NOVEMBER

November 4-5: Moss Rock Festival

Featuring live music, dance performances and a Beer Garden with more than 50 craft beers from local brewers. The festival is held at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex and begins at 10:00 a.m. each day. Stay tuned to mossrockfestival.com for admission prices and more.

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Bluff Park Community Park 517 Cloudland Drive Hoover, Al 35226 October 7 9am to 5pm Free Event to the Public @bluffparkartassociation @bluff_park_art_association
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