MEET SUPERINTENDENT DR. KEVIN MADDOX • TOURING NAPA VALLEY • OUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
TANGIBLE HOPE
RAISING LEADERS
BAILEY PEARL DESIGNS’ INSPIRED JEWELRY
RC3 IS EQUIPPING THE NEXT GENERATION
wrapping up WINTER 2023 HooversMagazine.com Volume 12 | Issue 4 $4.95
JOY
WRAPSODY IS IMPACTING LOCAL COMMUNITIES HooversMagazine.com 1
AAA Journey to Journey Journey to to Christmas Wonder Christmas Christmas Wonder Wonder
2 Winter 2023
HooversMagazine.com 1
FEATURES 50 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
THE DINING GUIDE A guide to some of the best local eateries around town.
63
WRAPPING UP HAPPINESS Wrapsody, an expanding gift boutique, is cultivating fellowship by putting people before profit.
72 HIT THE ROAD
EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY IN NAPA Whether you’ve been to Napa a dozen times, proper planning will ensure you’re able to experience the most of this singular hotspot.
78 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season? Look no further than the shops right around you.
2 Winter 2023
PHOTO BY UNTOLD IMAGERY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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31
PHOTO BY UNTOLD IMAGERY
arts & culture
17 Bailey Pearl Designs: Turning Jewelry into Memories 29 Read this Book: Carrie Steinmehl’s Best Holiday Reads
schools & sports
31 A New Path: RC3 is Opening Doors for Students 38 Five Questions For: Kevin Maddox, Hoover City Schools
food & drink
41 Twist on Traditional: Bellinis Ristorante and Bar’s Classic Cuisine 49 Five Questions For: Brett Hubbard, Bluff Park Diner
in every issue 4 Contributors 5 From the Editor 6 Instagram 9 The Question 11 The Guide 86 Chamber Connections 90 Out & About 103 Marketplace 104 My Hoover
home & style
53 Modern Transitional: A Lake Wilborn Home’s Southern Charm
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contributors EDITORIAL
Anna Grace Moore Donald Mottern Barton Perkins Andrew Simonson Noah Wortham
CONTRIBUTORS
James Culver Rachel Culver Daniel Dennis Ashleigh Jones Michelle Love Blair Ramsey Christiana Roussel Kelsea Schafer Lance Shores Carrie Steinmehl
DESIGN
Sydney Allen Jamie Dawkins Rowan Futrell Connor Martin-Lively
MARKETING
Michaela Bankston Octavia Campbell Evann Campbell Kari George Rachel Henderson Rhett McCreight Lauren Morris Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION Mary Jo Eskridge Alec Etheredge Stacey Meadows Tim Prince Kayla Reeves Brittany Schofield Savana Tarwater
Daniel Dennis, Photographer
Daniel is the co-founder and co-owner of Untold Imagery. He’s been practicing photography for many years, but he started pursuing it professionally in 2020. Daniel enjoys being able to compose an image in his mind and seeing it come to fruition through perfect lighting and composition. His primary focuses with photography are travel, food and branding. To learn more about Untold Imagery, follow the business on Instagram at @untold_imagery or visit untoldimagery.com.
Ashleigh Jones, Writer
Ashleigh Jones is a senior at Samford University, studying journalism and mass communication with a minor in biology. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, she loves to creatively inform people about the world through her many writing interests. Ultimately, she hopes to convey a sense of wonder, curiosity and delight to readers through truthful storytelling.
Christiana Roussel, Writer
Christiana Roussel is a Birmingham-based, award-winning food, travel and lifestyle writer. Naturally curious, she relishes any opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. She is a proud member of the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier as well as the Industry Advisory Board of Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management. Her other interests include bourbon, bacon, a great wardrobe capsule, upland hunting, pork rinds, pilates and power walks that include four-leaf clovers and feathers. Follow her online at @christiana.roussel.
Kelsea Schafer, Photographer
Kelsea is a student at Hoover High School. She lives in Hoover with her family and two dogs, Fendi and Riley. When not in class, she is behind the camera, shooting sports, events or senior portraits wherever possible while running Kelsea Schafer Photography. During her free time, she is often at Lewis Smith Lake, enjoying all things sun, boating and wake surfing with her family and friends.
Hoover’s Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Hoover’s Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Hoover’s Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Hoover’s Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Hoover, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit HooversMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting HooversMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@hooversmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
4 Winter 2023
from the editor
O
ON THE COVER
Wrapping Up Happiness
Wrapsody is spreading the joy of the holiday season one "gift wrapping" at a time. Photo by Kelsea Schafer Design by Rowan Futrell
Oftentimes, I feel as though I was better prepared to give birth than I was to parent a toddler. My rambunctious mini me, Jacob, who is no more than 2, has recently discovered his affinity for Houdini-like escapes from impossible “crib-binding cells,” or so he seems to consider as such. I’ll never forget groggily awakening one morning to such gentle tapping on my eyelids and nose. Groaning, I rolled over to find Jacob, who went to sleep in his crib, now wedged between a plethora of pillows on my bed and grinning ear-to-ear having outsmarted “mom.” I do not know what I would do if I ever lost Jacob. Lamaze classes and parenting books only teach so much–rarely do they teach how to grieve after the unthinkable–losing a child. Hoover artist Tonia Davis-Evans, who is featured on page 17, lost her precious daughter, Bailey Pearl, to a brain tumor several years ago. She says walking through her grief is an ongoing trench. While the pain may sting a little less, the void of her daughter is still there. She feels it. Tonia founded Bailey Pearl Designs–a handmade jewelry business– after one of her friend’s children spent more than 900 days in the NICU. She felt a calling to help parents of medically-ill children. When looking at Tonia’s jewelry, one will find precious metals and stones bonded together in harmony, creating the most intricate pieces that are perfect as gifts. What is so special about Tonia’s artwork, however, is the reason behind the jewelry–her vision to memorialize the bereaved into tangible hope that can be worn with purpose. Tonia clings to Bailey Pearl’s memory by loving like her daughter did. Every art show Tonia works, she asks the Lord to point out people who could use a little more love, and she makes it her mission to talk and offer to pray for them, too. When the unthinkable happens, it’s easy to let anger take root. Grief causes many to stagnate in their lives, hardening their hearts. If you have experienced loss, readers, know that you’re not alone. I cannot fathom the loss of a child, but I do know how heavily grief weighs–especially around the holiday season. I encourage you all to cling fast to those you hold dear. While grief is a terrible thing, it can bring people together, and together is one of the best ways to remember lost loved ones. I hope for each of you that you know just how loved you are. Take care, readers. With love,
annagrace.moore@hooversmagazine.com
HooversMagazine.com 5
@hooversmag
Tag us in your Hoover photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.
@mavenhairco FRIDAY THE 13th …. MAVEN style! Stay tuned we’ve got more pumpkin head shenanigans with our salon crew coming up!
@misshoover2024
A big thank you to @hooversmag for recognizing me in this month’s feature! Check out Hoover’s Magazine to learn more about me and my goals for this year!
@spainparkvolleyball It’s official! September 12, 2023 was Volleyball Day in Hoover! This week our volleyball team hosted the Hoover Bucs for a special day to honor our community and the game of volleyball.
6 Winter 2023
@goodneighborbaking We’re going storefront, people!!! Coming fall 2023 to the old Joyful Food location in Shades Mountain Plaza… a coffee shop concept that will provide a place for both @daysolcoffeelab and @goodneighborbaking.
l
Thank You for voting us
Best Credit Union in Hoover
Hoover Branch | 205.823.3985 amfirst.org
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8 Winter 2023
“ ” THE QUESTION
What is your favorite holiday event or tradition in Hoover?
Driving Santa around on the fire engine on Christmas Eve
Santa coming to Brock’s Gap Brewing Company!
The interactive Christmas program and photos with Santa for children at the Hoover Public Library, immediately following the Hoover Tree Lighting.
The HoHo Hoover Randle House Open House!
The Bluff Park Christmas Parade
Kids’ baking classes with Itty Bitty Bakers!
Being Santa on the fire engine and ladder truck
The Bluff Park Christmas Parade and Santa on the firetruck EVERY Christmas Eve!
-Edward Pegues
-Mitzi Gibbs Eaker
-Kerry Leasure
-Allan Rice
-Catherine Blumenthal Cato
-Jennifer Pate
-Jessica Kendrick Hamby
-Rebecca Ellison
HooversMagazine.com 9
10 Winter 2023
THE GUIDE
BLUFF PARK CHRISTMAS PARADE DEC. 2 10 A.M. Bluff Park Community Park Bring the family and watch as the annual Bluff Park Christmas Parade processes through a neighborhood near you! The parade will begin and end at the Bluff Park Community Park. The parade will begin on Cloudland Drive, then will turn right onto Lester Lane, turn South on Clearview Road, turn right onto Rockview Lane and finally, turn right onto Cloudland Drive to end the festivities at the park. HooversMagazine.com 11
THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN THURSDAY NIGHTS THROUGHOUT THE WINTER Trivia Brock’s Gap Brewing Company NOV. 24-DEC. 24 Christmas Tree Farm Old Baker Farm NOV. 30-DEC. 3 “Have Yourself a Jazzy, Little Christmas” The Homewood Theatre
DEC. 2
Bluff Park 8K
DEC. 2 Christmas on the Farm Old Baker Farm
7:30 A.M. Bluff Park United Methodist Church 733 Valley Street The Bluff Park 8K is unique in that it features only 250 feet of running uphill over the whole course. It was designed for
runners to run at one of the highest points in the city. Everyone is welcome to attend, including those with strollers and leashed
dogs. All registrants receive a participant T-shirt and post-race breakfast. Register at runsignup.com.
DEC. 15-16
D.C. Young Fly SELECT TIMES StarDome Comedy Club
Photo contributed
12 Winter 2023
“WILD’N OUT” comedian D.C. Young Fly will host a two-night special at the StarDome Comedy Club this month. D.C. originally gained fame on the social media platform, Vine, and has amassed an impressive career in TV entertainment, such as hosting the game show, “Celebrity Squares,” and appearing as a host on MTV’s reboot of “Total Request Live.” D.C. is also known for co-starring in David E. Talbert’s “Almost Christmas,” in which he stars alongside Danny Glover, Mo’Nique and Gabrielle Union. For more information about performance times or to purchase tickets, visit stardome.com.
DEC. 3 Mountain Brook Holiday Parade Mountain Brook Village DEC. 3 Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade Liberty Park Middle School through the Alston Meadows Neighborhood DEC. 5 2023 Lighting of the Star and Homewood Holiday Parade Downtown Homewood DEC. 5 The Birmingham Boys Choir’s Christmas Concert The Wright Center at Samford University DEC. 7 English Village Holiday Open House The Shops of English Village DEC. 7 The Samford University Legacy League Christmas Home Tour Appointed Homes in Mountain Brook, Homewood and Vestavia Hills DEC. 7 “A Family Christmas” with We the Kingdom and Matt Maher The BJCC
THE GUIDE DEC. 9 “Home for the Holidays” Presented by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra The BJCC DEC. 9 The 2023 Jingle Bell Run Veterans Park on Valleydale Road DEC. 10 Pictures with Santa Brock’s Gap Brewing Company DEC. 11 Homewood Menorah Lighting Downtown Homewood DEC. 14 Vestavia Hills Menorah Lighting Vestavia Hills City Hall DEC. 15 Muscadine Bloodline Iron City Bham DEC. 15 “A Rose Colored Country Christmas” The Homewood Theatre DEC. 15-17, 20-23 “The Nutcracker” Presented by the Alabama Ballet The BJCC DEC. 16 Breakfast with Santa Samford University Rotunda Club DEC. 16 The 29th Annual Meadow Brook Run 1100 Corporate Parkway DEC. 16 Reindeer Dash Pure Fitness in Vestavia Hills 100 Old Town Road Suite 100 DEC. 16 Pictures with Santa Brock’s Gap Brewing Company
Hoover High School Varsity Boys Basketball Come out to cheer on the Bucs! DEC. 1: vs. Spain Park DEC. 5: vs. Cullman DEC. 8: at Huntsville DEC. 9: vs. Buckhorn DEC. 16: at Escambia County DEC. 28: vs. Oxford JAN. 5: vs. Thompson
JAN. 9: at Vestavia Hills JAN. 12: vs. Tuscaloosa County JAN. 19: at Thompson JAN. 23: vs. Vestavia Hills JAN. 26: at Tuscaloosa County JAN. 29: vs. Homewood FEB. 1: at Spain Park
Spain Park High School Varsity Boys Basketball Support the Jags as they play their next season! DEC. 1: at Hoover DEC. 5: at Thompson DEC. 8: vs. Homewood DEC. 9: at Huffman DEC. 15: vs. McAdory JAN. 2: vs. Tuscaloosa County JAN. 9: vs. Chelsea JAN. 12: at Hewitt-Trussville JAN. 16: at Buckhorn JAN. 16: vs. Indian Springs JAN. 19: vs. Oak Mountain JAN. 23: at Chelsea JAN. 26: vs. Hewitt-Trussville FEB. 1: vs. Hoover HooversMagazine.com 13
THE GUIDE DEC. 17 Pentatonix Presented by Legacy Arena DEC. 18-JAN. 2 Winter Break Hoover City Schools DEC. 23 The Birmingham Bowl Protective Stadium
FEB. 18-24
Southern Voices Festival SELECT TIMES The Hoover Public Library The Hoover Public Library’s annual Southern Voices Festival is back again and will feature “New York Times’’ bestselling author Elizabeth George of the “Inspector Lynley” series as the keynote speaker.
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The festival will also feature talks from authors Kate Quinn, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist John Archibald and more. Musician John Waite will open the festival, featuring several of his hit songs, “Missing
You” and “When I See You Again.” Artist Katie Baldwin will also host a reception and artist talk as well. Tickets go on sale on Thursday, Jan. 11. Find more details and purchase tickets at southernvoices.info.
DEC. 30 C.M. Newton Classic University of Alabama vs. Liberty University Legacy Arena DEC. 30 Rumours - The Fleetwood Mac Experience Iron City Bham JAN. 1 First Day Hike: Sunrise at King’s Chair Oak Mountain State Park
THE GUIDE JAN. 15 Martin Luther King Jr. Day JAN. 18-21 The Birmingham Boat Show The BJCC JAN. 19 The Molly Ringwalds Iron City Bham JAN. 24-28 “Aladdin” Presented by Broadway in Birmingham The BJCC JAN. 27 “Masterworks: Beethoven’s Fourth Concerto” Presented by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra The Alys Stephens Center FEB. 9-11 Jurassic World Live Legacy Arena
DEC. 20
Winter Spectacular 3:30-4:15 P.M. Hoover Public Library
The Hoover Public Library will host its Winter Spectacular show, featuring library staff singing along to Christmas
carols and more. This variety show is free and open to the public. Learn more at hooverlibrary.org.
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16 Winter 2023
&CULTURE
ARTS
A SOUL FOR CREATION
Tonia Davis-Evans is creating tangible hope for grieving families by commemorating memories into jewelry. BY MICHELLE LOVE PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY HooversMagazine.com 17
18 Winter 2023
T
Tonia Davis-Evans, owner and creator of Bailey Pearl Designs, has a big to-do list coming up. She has several festivals planned for spring 2024, and she is planning on applying to Panoply—one of the largest art festivals in Huntsville. Tonia is no stranger to art festivals. Art enthusiasts undoubtedly have seen her at local art events, selling her handcrafted stone and gembased jewelry, always with a smile on her face and offering a friendly “hello.” Tonia says she has always loved making jewelry ever since she was a child. “My great-grandmother, she was a Native American jewelry artist,” Tonia says. “I think I was like 6 years old when I made my first necklace. I still have that necklace, and it was so simple. She taught me how to make beads from recycled paper, but just to think that I could create something from nothing and to create something that was, in my eyes, gorgeous, just ignited a fire in my soul.”
Tonia’s love for jewelry continued as she got older, though she put her creativity on the backburner as she pursued what she calls more “grown up” goals. She went to Auburn University and got a degree in biology then got married and had children. “I’m an anxious person, and I had a lot of anxiety about making money, so that’s why I went into ophthalmology,” she says. “Artists that are really good make a lot of money, but it isn’t always guaranteed, so I went with a career where that was guaranteed.” While working in ophthalmology, Tonia says she was never truly happy. Her soul missed creating, and she knew she had to make a change. She started creating art for herself in her spare time from working and being a housewife. That was 17 years ago. She had no intention of selling her art—it was purely a form of self-care. Over the years, Tonia had HooversMagazine.com 19
A Little Prayer Before every festival or art show, Tonia says a prayer. It’s not a prayer to sell a lot of jewelry or make a lot of a money, it’s a special prayer she feels happy to share.
This is my prayer before I have an event: I want to be a light for God. Every show I have, there’s somebody who just needs somebody to talk to or to pray for them. I know it’s not random—it’s God. I think that’s what God is doing through my jewelry and my art.
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accumulated an impressive collection of her own handmade jewelry. Then came a tragedy no parent is prepared for. The Evanses' daughter, Bailey Pearl, passed away from a brain tumor. After losing her child, Tonia says she felt a calling to help other parents of medically fragile children. It was then that she realized she could sell her collection of handmade jewelry to help make a difference in people’s lives; thus, Bailey Pearl Designs was born. “I wanted everyone to know Bailey Pearl’s name,” Tonia says. “She brought joy to everyone on the planet and everyone who saw her. I just wanted to honor her and spread a little bit of the joy she brought to others by helping other families.” Tonia received her LLC for her business in 2017, but it was a rocky road getting Bailey Pearl officially launched. She was planning on launching Bailey Pearl Designs in January 2020, but then Tonia suffered a debilitating car accident followed by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was seeing a friend experiencing a similar pain to her own that made Tonia take the first lunge in August 2020. “A former classmate of mine had a son, who was born at 26 weeks, and he spent over 900 days in the hospital,” Tonia says. “She was also furloughed during the pandemic, and with all of her son’s medical issues, she desperately needed money. I just launched [the business] on Facebook. We weren’t totally ready yet, but it just felt right to do it then.”
company’s coming! Wrap up your holiday shopping at The Pig! We have the freshest Certified Angus beef, cheese and flowers, not to mention our unbeatable selection of wine and craft beer.
Piggly Wiggly is committed to connecting Alabama farmers and families.
We have a FRESH selection of vegetables EVERY DAY!
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22 Winter 2023
While Tonia started a website, it was showing her work at local art festivals that started getting the word out about Bailey Pearl Designs. The festivals, she says, can be physically taxing, but it’s worth it to raise awareness about her mission. “I’m a Christian, so any bright ideas or inspiration I have I credit to God,” Tonia says. “All of my talent is a blessing from God. I totally believe that God guided me to start doing these festivals. It’s so out of my comfort zone, but I started doing the festivals because I felt I could reach more people and tell [my daughter’s] story.” Tonia’s jewelry style ranges from boho chic to stylish elegance all the way to homages of the Native American jewelry her great-grandmother taught her to make. Her necklaces and bracelets highlight the natural colors of various beads and stones, some muted and some more vibrant. “I create what I like to wear, so I really never thought anyone would be interested in it when I got started, but to have such a great reception has been so great,” Tonia says. Various things inspire Tonia’s work, from her dreams to natural stones she finds in nature. To her, there is beauty in even the most unlikely places.
Tonia uses Bailey Pearl’s birthstone, an aquamarine, frequently in her work, and she also loves using mother of pearl stones for obvious reasons. One of her more popular pieces is jewelry made from buffalo horns—such that she only uses to honor the buffalo and because the horns are ethically and humanely sourced. “Sometimes, I dream about shapes, and I’ll see it in my dream and want to recreate that,” Tonia says. “When I see a raw stone and the different color variations, all of that will inspire me, and I’ll work about that. I can see one gemstone, and I’ll see a full necklace.” As a Christian, Tonia says she feels God through everything she creates, and spirituality is always present in her work. “There is absolutely spirituality connected to all of my pieces,” she says. “I give glory to God. Everything I make, all of my talent all comes from Him. Everything is spiritually based because I don’t think I, alone, am capable of doing this by myself. Everything I do is spiritually based because He has guided me to do this.” To view Bailey Pearl Designs jewelry or to see where Tonia will be showing next, visit her Instagram page @baileypearldesigns.
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Volunteering at Aldridge Gardens Volunteering at Aldridge Gardens is about so much more than just gardening. While we do need help around the grounds, your time and talents in other areas are valuable, too. We have ongoing opportunities from greeting visitors at the gatehouse to working in our gift shop and even helping out with our Spring Plant Sale. Gatehouse Greeter Gatehouse greeters have some of the best jobs at Aldridge Gardens! You can be the first smiling face our guests see when
they visit. Responsibilities include answering questions, handing out maps/ scavenger hunts and literature, selling fish and duck food, being knowledgeable of special events taking place and keeping the daily guest count. Several different shifts are available.
Spring Plant Sale We are also already planning for our Spring Plant Sale to be held in April 2024. Our committee plans to meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month, leading up to this annual event. Let us know if you’d like to be a part of it!
Roots Garden and Gift Shop Our little gift shop sells gardening supplies, local items, jewelry, gift items and more! A variety of shifts are needed for this spot.
If you are interested in volunteering and would like more information, contact Janet Abernathy at janet.abernathy@ hooveralabama.gov.
3530 Lorna Road • Hoover, AL 35216 • 205-739-6558 • aldridgegardens.com • aldridgegardens@hooveralabama.gov
Children’s Education - Hands-On Learning
Winter Weddings While many people would not think of having an outside wedding during the winter months, they may be surprised at just how beautiful Aldridge Gardens is in the winter as well. Couples get married here year-round, and there are many locations on the
grounds you can choose for the big day. If you would like more information about an Aldridge Gardens winter wedding or one any time of year, contact our Events Coordinator, Kristen Valentine, at 205-739-6554 or kristen.valentine@hooveralabama.gov.
The education program for children provides hands-on, outdoor learning experiences designed to cultivate children’s natural curiosity, empower them with understanding and engage them in problem solving and decision making to preserve the delicate balance of nature. Supporting these experiences is a well-prepared group of volunteer education docents, who help children make connections between what they have learned in books and what goes on in the environment around us.
Adult Education Classes HO HO Hoover-Randle Hoover Helps will host the Ho Ho Hoover-Randle Open House Fundraiser on Sunday, Dec. 3 from 2-5 p.m. at the Hoover Randle Home and Gardens. Hoover Helps is a local nonprofit that
provides food and clothing for local children in need. The event will include a silent auction, refreshments, entertainment, Christmas tree decorating and more.
The staff at Aldridge Gardens strives to educate students of all ages about plants and the natural world. Taught by experts in their fields, you may find adult and family classes in areas such as gardening and horticulture, botanical crafts, floral design, art, photography and nature themes. Depending on the season, programs are offered on weekends, evenings or weekdays.
HERE AT THE HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY
SOUTHERN VOICES
For the Hoover Public Library, February means hosting the Southern Voices Festival. author conference on the Library Theatre stage. Joining Kate for the conference are Pulitzer Prizewinning columnist John Archibald, “Shaking the The Hoover Public Library is proud to host the Gates of Hell;” Kim Cross, “In Light of All Darkness: Southern Voices Festival in February 2024 and is Inside the Polly Klaas Kidnapping and the Search for even more thrilled to welcome renowned author, America’s Child;” young adult author Daniel Nayeri, Elizabeth George, as the keynote speaker on Friday, “Everything Sad is Untrue;” and Kenan Orhan, “I Am Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. in the Library Theatre. A reception My Country: And Other Stories;” and Yasmin Angoe, and book signing on the library plaza will follow “Her Name is Knight.” Kristin Harmel, author of “The Forest of Vanishing Stars” and who had to Elizabeth’s presentation. Elizabeth is the author of the “New York Times” postpone her appearance in 2023, will happily join best-selling “Inspector Lynley” mysteries, which authors for the festival in 2024. Writing is not the only aspect of the Southern were adapted for television by the “BBC” and a young adult series set on Whidbey Island outside of Seattle, Voices Festival, however. Opening the festival on Sunday, Feb. 18 is musician John Waite, whose Washington. Elizabeth’s novel, “Write Away: One Writer’s songs, “Missing You” and “When I See You Smile,” Approach to the Novel,” is also a “New York Times” were staples of ’80s radio stations. Art also plays a major role in Southern Voices, best-seller for her creative writing. In addition, she is the executive chair of the Elizabeth George and this year’s artist is Katie Baldwin. A reception Foundation, which provids grants to aspiring writers. and artist talk will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 20 at On Saturday, Feb. 24, the Hoover Public Library 5:30 p.m. in the Friends Gallery. Tickets for the Southern Voices Festival go on will welcome six additional authors, representing a wide variety of genres and topics. Kate Quinn, sale on Thursday, Jan. 11. Those interested can whose historical fiction includes “The Alice purchase tickets online at southernvoices.info or by Network” and “The Rose Code,” will open the calling the box office at 205-444-7888.
BY CARRIE STEINMEHL PHOTO BY LANCE SHORES
28 Winter 2023
ARTS & CULTURE
READ THIS BOOK
Cozy Holiday Reads Recommendations from
Carrie Steinmehl Library Assistant Director at the Hoover Public Library
Carrie Steinmehl has been with the Hoover Public Library for 24 years and was just recently named the Library Assistant Director. She is a resident of Hoover, where she lives with her husband and two sons. While not at the library, she enjoys singing in her church choir, watching her sons play in the marching band and on the soccer field, reading and watching true crime. Here, Carrie has compiled holiday book recommendations from the Hoover Public Library staff.
In a Holidaze
By Christina Lauren | Romance Following the imperfect life of Maelyn Jones, “In a Holidaze” chronicles Maelyn’s dissatisfaction that increases when she learns that this year’s annual holiday visit to her family’s cabin in Utah will be her last. On the way home, Maelyn wishes for the universe to reveal what will make her happy. The next thing she knows, Maelyn is caught in a strange time loop, reliving her final vacation over and over again (and always meeting disaster) until she can figure out the path to true love. Filled with plenty of humor and holiday cheer, this easy read will have readers believing in the magic of Christmas.
My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories
Edited by Stephanie Perkins | Short Stories This delightful collection features short stories from some of today’s most popular teen writers including Holly Black, Ally Carter, Matt de La Peña, Gayle Forman, Jenny Han, David Levithan, Kelly Link, Myra McEntire, Rainbow Rowell, Stephanie Perkins, Laini Tayler and Kiersten White. Whether one celebrates Christmas or Hanukkah, Winter Solstice or Kwanzaa, there’s a little something for everyone as each tale features a love story set during a different winter holiday, making it a perfect book to cozy up with this season!
The Mischief of Mistletoe
By Lauren Willig | Mystery & Romance This regency-set spy romance is such an engaging, read-it-every-year Christmas read. Part of a series is based loosely on the Scarlet Pimpernel. This title can easily stand alone as it features a blundering-but-lovable side character from the series and a witty heroine, who is low-key best friends with Jane Austen. Boarding schools, house parties, French spies, Frost Fairs and Christmas pudding serve as the answer to so many of life’s quandaries.
The Matzah Ball
By Jean Meltzer | Romantic Comedy “The Matzah Ball” is the story of Rachel Rubenstein-Goldblatt, a nice Jewish girl with a dirty little secret: she loves Christmas! She loves Christmas so much that she earns her living as a Christmas romance novelist—a fact she has to hide from her family. When her publisher requests a Hanukkah-inspired romance, she turns to the Matzah Ball, a celebration on the last night of Hanukkah, where she is reunited with her longtime nemesis, Jacob Greenberg. As one can imagine, sparks fly in this laugh-out loud, warm-hearted read.
Winter Street
By Elin Hilderbrand | Romance Kelley Quinn is the owner of Nantucket’s Winter Street Inn and the proud father of four adult children—all of whom are living in varying states of disarray. As Christmas approaches, chaos ensues, and it’s up to Kelley’s ex-wife Margaret to save the day. The Quinns are delightful, and the Nantucket setting charms. Even better, this book is the first in a series. After one turns the final page, there are three more novels in this Winter series waiting for her to enjoy, including “Winter Stroll,” “Winter Storms” and “Winter Solstice.” HooversMagazine.com 29
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SCHOOL
&SPORTS
FOR THEIR FUTURES
The Riverchase Career Connection Center is preparing students for the real world through hands-on experience. BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY UNTOLD IMAGERY HooversMagazine.com 31
32 Winter 2023
O
Often, public school education in the United States only teaches one path: The straight and narrow route from high school to a four-year-long university to either the workforce or graduate school. However, this path is not always the right one for everyone, and the Riverchase Career Connection Center (RC3) is here to offer new, engaging opportunities for students to excel in any direction they choose. RC3 opened in August 2019 under the leadership of Dr. Ron Dodson, the school’s first director. RC3 serves students in 10th, 11th and 12th grade from Hoover High School, Spain Park High School and Homewood High School, too. The school not only teaches core curriculum math and English classes, but it also teaches career-focused classes in six different academics, including cosmetology and barbering; culinary and hospitality; cyber innovation; fire and emergency services; health science; and skilled trades. The school is now located in the former Pelham Middle School campus, which was bought and renovated into a state-of-the-art facility by Hoover City Schools in 2017. Each academy is taught by industry professionals, which allow students to receive interactive instruction and to earn certificates that would otherwise cost thousands of dollars for students post-high school to achieve.
Students attend school at their flagship location and then come to school at RC3 for part of the day for their math, English and academy classes. Skeptics said RC3 was such an unorthodox route, and enrollment would never meet its quota. The RC3 founders’ goal was to have at least 400 students enrolled at the onset of the 2019-2020 school year, but by the beginning of the school year, 750 students had enrolled. The influx of students came as a surprise to a lot of people, but not Dr. Debra Walker Smith, who took over as director of RC3 on Friday, March 13, 2020–exactly three days before schools closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “RC3 is a simulated workplace,” Dr. Smith says. “This environment provides a safe place for students to learn and grow in preparation for college and/or the various careers associated with our academies. Additionally, students learn and apply soft skills that are in high demand in the workforce.” Dr. Smith, a veteran in the educational community herself, understands that the road to success is often a winding one, full of bumps and curves that prevent one from clearly seeing the finish line. Dr. Smith earned her B.S. in medical records administration from UAB, and afterwards, worked in office administration for several years before HooversMagazine.com 33
205- 638-PIRC (7472)
Helping navigate the mental health system for teens and children. Services are FREE and confidential. Services provided by phone are not medical advice and should not be considered as such. Services are provided via telephone by licensed mental health professionals who recommend the most appropriate mental health resources. PIRC is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. PIRC is NOT a crisis or suicide hotline. Call for mental health resources.
The PIRC is generously supported by funding from United Way of Central Alabama, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama and the Walker Area Community Foundation.
34 Winter 2023
becoming a mother. Dr. Smith’s own path changed when she decided to pursue a career in education, going back to school at Samford University to earn her master’s in early childhood and elementary education. She started her educational career in 2004 as the assistant principal at South Shades Crest Elementary School and Trace Crossings Elementary School–a role she shared between both schools before focusing on just Trace Crossings for the next seven years. Dr. Smith also attended the University of Montevallo, where she earned her certificate in educational leadership. She says her goal was to become a principal, but once again, her career path changed. Hoover City Schools’ Central Office recruited Dr. Smith for a position in Federal Programs, which included career and technical education. This allowed her to diversify her skill set as she oversaw all 17 schools’ advancement in education. In 2005, Dr. Smith returned to her grassroots at UAB, earning her Ph.D. in early childhood education. Fast forward 15 years, and Dr. Smith, with her three degrees, one certificate and years of experience, sat on the board that made the decision to open RC3. When Dr. Dodson left his role as director, Dr. Smith was once again sought after, and this time, she says, for the job of her dreams. Now in its fifth year, RC3’s enrollment boasts nearly 600 students. Close to 100 students enrolled this year alone in the school’s newly opened cosmetology and barbering academy, which opened its doors in August 2023. “My favorite part of the job is the students,” Dr. Smith says.
“RC3 is a special environment. The students apply to attend RC3 and are truly focused on doing well. I am thankful that I get to play a small role in their educational journey.” Andrew Poker, who previously taught precalculus, calculus and statistics at Spain Park High School, was one of the original teachers who came to teach at RC3 when it opened. He says many of his students were in the health sciences academy at Spain Park and coming to teach at RC3 not only allowed him to continue teaching some of those same students, but also help teach ways that advanced math courses would benefit students in trades, too. “I really enjoy integrating CTE contexts into the traditional math curriculum,” Andrew says. “My precalculus and calculus classes frequently apply function analysis to patterns of cause and effect in the fields of health science, business and engineering, but we also practice many of the mental math techniques employed by the construction math class across the hall because it helps us to understand what the numbers really mean.” Some of Andrew’s students are planning to study engineering in college, and some are culinary arts students who want to get degrees in business. Now that he is teaching both high school-level and dual
enrollment precalculus and calculus classes at RC3, Andrew says his coursework is allowing his students to get a head start on both two-and four-year degrees in their career fields. Andrew believes that students learn in different ways, and some need to step out of the classroom to reignite their passion for learning. Others may excel in a traditional classroom setting but sometimes may not be prepared to enter their career paths because traditional classrooms do not always mimic real world experiences. “I think all students fit in both categories to some degree, which is why athletics and the arts have always been such an important partner to academics,” Andrew says. “Our CTE programs serve the same purpose in developing artistry and teamwork, with the added benefit of being immediately profitable in the financial sense.” Lt. Jeffrey Otwell was also one of the original educators at RC3, who says he was recruited by Hoover Fire Chief Clay Bentley for the position. He is now one of four experienced firefighters who oversee the fire and emergency services academy. “I have always enjoyed working with young people and helping them find direction in life,” Lt. Otwell says. “I realized that teaching at RC3 would give me an even bigger platform to do just that.”
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Earning Certificates RC3 students have the opportunity to earn each of the following certificates in their respective academies after completing the designated coursework by the time they graduate from high school. Cosmetology and Barbering Academy • Natural Hair Styling Licensure and National Retail Federation • National Professional Certification in Customer Service and Sales Culinary and Hospitality Academy • Hospitality Gold Standard Certification in Customer Service • COVID-19 Food Safety Protocol Certification
Certification in Nutrition - Via Dual Enrollment with Jefferson State Community College
• Apparatus Operator–Pumper
• National Restaurant Association’s ServSafe Food Protection Manager
• Certified Patient Care Credential
Cyber Innovation Academy • CompTIA Information Technology Fundamentals Certification Fire and Emergency Services Academy
Health Science Academy • Emergency Medical Technician Basic Skilled Trades Academy • NCCER Core • NCCER Carpentry • HVAC Electrical
• CPR
• Volunteer Firefighter 160
• Heavy Equipment Operators
• The Heimlich Maneuver
• Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations
• Welding Levels 1 and 2
• Telecommunicator I and II
• OSHA-30
• Emergency Vehicle Driver
• EPA Refrigerant Exam
• National Restaurant Association’s Food Handler Certification • National Restaurant Association’s
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• OSHA-10
Multiple of Lt. Otwell’s students have graduated from RC3 with certificates such as Volunteer Firefighter 160; Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations; Telecommunicator I and II; Emergency Vehicle Driver; and Apparatus Operator–Pumper. Numerous students have gone on to attend the Alabama Fire College in Tuscaloosa, telling Lt. Otwell their experience at RC3 helped them graduate college with honors and become employed immediately. “Students get to learn many vital skills to firefighting such as working in PPE (turnout gear and SCBA), operating hose lines, operating ladders, forcible entry, CPR and more,” Lt. Otwell says. “Even if a student decides they do not want to pursue a career in firefighting, they will learn valuable lessons that will help them be successful in life.” Hands-on learning is what sets RC3 apart from other schools in the area. Dr. Smith says fire and emergency services academy students learn to repel buildings, and skilled trades academy students learn to operate heavy machinery and equipment. Cyber innovation students train to identify cyber threats, while cosmetology and barbering academy
students are learning to give haircuts on any style and type of hair. Notably, health science academy students partner with local hospitals, getting to shadow medical professionals and even learning how to start an IV by the time they graduate. “We have seen considerable improvement in students’ attendance and academic achievements because daily, students are provided opportunities for hands-on application of the skills they learn,” Dr. Smith says. “This practice in maintaining a high level of student engagement prepares them for success in their post-secondary career choice.” Dr. Smith says that a big misconception about RC3 is that the school only tailors to students pursuing careers in trades, not college. She says the vast majority of RC3 students’ post high school plans include attending college. No matter what path students end up choosing, it is evident that RC3 is preparing students for their futures by equipping them with real world experience. Perhaps if all learning could be this engaging, students would feel empowered to pursue their dreams. For more information about RC3, visit hoovercityschools.net.
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SCHOOL & SPORTS
5
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Dr. Kevin Maddox Superintendent of Hoover City Schools PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Dr. Kevin Maddox, formerly the Assistant Superintendent of Homewood City Schools, was unanimously named Superintendent of Hoover City Schools on August 17, 2023, replacing Dr. Dee O. Fowler, who retired in May 2023. Dr. Maddox’s educational career spans 29 years–with 20 of those years in school administration. Here, he offers his thoughts and gratitude on his new position. improving student achievement. I’m adopt a little humility and involve other grateful to have been given this opportunity people in decisions and conversations. to lead the school district. That’s what I’m willing to do and have done in my career. We have 13,000 How do you hope to benefit the faculty students and 1,800 employees. When you and students within Hoover City have a school district that large, things are Schools? going to happen–sometimes we can’t My first role in education was actually as control what happens, but we can control a substitute teacher. I understand how our reaction to what happens. I have important classified staff members are to complete confidence in our administrative making a school district run, for example. team and their collaboration to be able to Sometimes, they may not receive the deal with those situations professionally. accolades they deserve, but they get the kids to school, feed kids, take care of our What is your favorite part of your job? buildings, clean and make sure our offices Investing in students is one of my run smoothly. All of our classified staff favorite parts of what we do each day. I members play such a critical role in helping love building relationships with them. It’s What does a day in the life look like for us operate even though they’re not in the our job to educate them, invest in them, classroom. Appreciating the job they do help them grow up while they’re at school. you? My days up to this point have been and keeping kids at the center of our Those are things we strive to do each day extremely busy with meeting new people. I decision making keeps all of us focused on in hopes of creating productive citizens. had an opportunity recently to meet at why we’re here–that’s what I plan to bring I’ve been blown away by some of the things that I’ve seen here, and I’m very RC3 and tour the facility. I also really to the table here in Hoover. excited about the future of the school enjoyed meeting with numerous school and community partnerships. I also have How did you have to adapt in your new district. data meetings that are ongoing where we role? In order to get better at what you do, you are collaborating with school leadership, have to work at it. Sometimes, you have to discussing ways and strategies for How have you enjoyed transitioning into your new role as superintendent? It’s been a great transition thus far. I’m a big believer in building relationships with not only students and staff, but also community members. I’ve met individually with board members, district leadership and principals. I’ve been able to visit every school in our district. It’s important for the superintendent to be visible, and provide a presence for people to understand that you appreciate what they do. That’s what I’m striving to do. I truly enjoy getting out there and seeing our students in action. Hoover has such a positive climate, and it’s a beautiful thing to watch.
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&DRINK
FOOD
THREE FOLD
From delectable antipasti to rich Southern fare, Bellinis remains a staple of Hoover cuisine. BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY UNTOLD IMAGERY HooversMagazine.com 41
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Strolling into Bellinis Ristorante and Bar, one is immersed in romantic lighting and greeted with cheerful salutations. Owner Doug Hovanec founded Bellinis with his then business partner 15 years ago in 2008, and through economic downturns, a global pandemic and more, the restaurant has only ever thrived, thanks to what Doug says are the three key ingredients to good business: people, process and product. Whether guests choose to relax at the bar for an elder old fashion or dine in Bellinis' intimate atmosphere, they are always treated with the utmost respect, and the staff would not have it any other way. Good people are the first of the three-fold recipe for success, and Doug says he prides himself on the team he considers family. Katie Strickland, general manager, started in the service industry as a student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, working her way through college. She landed a position as a waitress at
Bellinis after graduating and worked her way up into management. “Doug is here for his staff and his guests, and I think that trickles down from upper management all the way to our servers,” Katie says. “Everyone sees the passion he holds for this industry, and it inspires everyone else to have the same outlook.” From open to close, the servers, hosts, chefs and managers work in such fluidity that no customer’s chardonnay glass ever gets half-full without a server offering a second pour. The servers are patient, happy to assist any customer with special requests or tough decisions on the menu, too. Looking about the dining room, one will see gentlemen fresh off the golf course, laughing about the game’s spoils. Couples on their first date or 50th anniversary sit adjacent to one another, each dining joyfully in an aroma of love. “We don’t stop people from being who they are when they walk through the doors,” Doug says. “We HooversMagazine.com 43
Chef Picks jk Pasta
Mushroom and Olive Rigatoni House-made rigatoni noodles tossed in a creamy marsala sauce with mushrooms and kalamata olives.
Seafood
Blackened Gulf Fish Blackened gulf fish over reggiano risotto, wood-fire-grilled asparagus and a calabrian chili, garlic butter.
Steak
Prime Ribeye Fourteen-ounce prime ribeye served rare alongside a horseradish cream sauce and veal demi glace.
want to help elevate their experience.” Doug and his father dine together every Friday night at Bellinis–a tradition they have enjoyed for several years. Good meals become even better when shared with people one loves, Doug says. This haven is welcoming for guests of all ages– which is why dining at Bellinis is perfect for any occasion. “My favorite part of my job is getting to watch the beautiful moments that we bring to the people here,” Katie says. “Getting to see people spend their anniversaries or get engaged here, have their baby showers here–those little life moments that we get to be a part of is what makes the service industry so special. A lot of my job and what I love about it is making those guest connections.” In addition to fostering fellowship between the staff and customers, Doug says the second ingredient, process, is just as–if not more important. Every meal on the menu is made in-house, from scratch every day. Chef Andrew Hatcher was classically trained in 44 Winter 2023
French cuisine with a Southern fare at Root to Tail in Mountain Brook. He joined the team at Bellinis four years ago, working his way up to head chef. Andrew says Bellinis' wood-fire-burning grill utilizes hickory and mesquite wood, unlike many restaurants in the area. This tactic, he says, allows the food at Bellinis to have richer, more authentic flavors. “In the cooking process, [woodfires] add a charred, smoky flavor, which infuses with our steaks and helps keep those juices in there while cooking,” Andrew says. Not only do the chefs at Bellinis cook the oldfashioned way, but they also hand-make all of the pasta, sauces and bread. Every time someone tastes the lemon ricotta linguine or chicken and artichoke rigatoni, for example, they are eating some of the finest pasta made the Italian way–by hand, fresh daily. “You can taste the difference so easily,” Katie says. “This is truly a restaurant where I can stand fully behind the food, and I feel confident in saying
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4317 Dolly Ridge Road, Suite 101 Vestavia Hills
FREE SHAREABLE
Mention this coupon code at our Cahaba Heights location to redeem a FREE order of Bonuts or our famous B-Roll (Biscuit Cinnamon Roll) with any purchase! REDEEM REWARD AT REGISTER USING CODE:
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OPEN Thurs - Mon 7am - 3pm Closed Tues & Wed 46 Winter 2023
everything is made fresh every single day.” With a plethora of wines any connoisseur will enjoy, authentic pastas rivaling the motherland’s recipes and more, Bellinis is best known for its products–its menu–one unparalleled in the greater Birmingham area. Doug recommends pairing the chicken alla vodka, which is a dish comprising wood-grilled chicken, pancetta, shallots, tomato, reggiano, cream
and rigatoni, with a rich Agostina Pieri Rosso di Montalcino for more romantic dinners. If one is a meat lover, he cannot go wrong with the traditional osso bucco, a dish of braised veal, gouda polenta, mirepoix and au jus, complete with a light Peroni or Cahaba Blonde. While Bellinis does cater toward upscale appetites, the menu also offers an array of casual options, including the margherita pizza, topped
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with fresh mozzarella, pesto and basil. The littlest diners often enjoy the bacon pimento cheese burger or braised beef tacos, which never disappoint even the pickiest eaters. “My personal favorite is the seafood risotto,” Katie says. “You get a little bit of grouper, scallops and shrimp over a reggiano risotto and blackened cherry cream sauce. It’s so rich and delicious, and it even has red onions, cherry tomatoes and conecuh sausage.” Andrew says while his favorite are any of the steaks, the pastas are not to be overlooked. Especially for newcomers or picky eaters, most everyone finds something they like from the pasta selections. With caring and attentive staff, authentic cooking and mouthwatering meals, Bellinis remains a staple of Hoover cuisine– expanding customers’ palates one taste at a time. Doug says 15 years of successful business, however, would not be possible without the support of his customers. “Having good people around you is helpful,” Doug says. “As you build that connection, it makes your business stronger. On a deeper level, we all only have so much time left, and it’s important to spend it with family and friends. That’s what Bellinis is all about–fostering community.” Visit Bellinis Ristorante and Bar at 6801 Cahaba Valley Road Suite 106. For a full menu, catering requests or reservations, guests can call 205-981-5380 or visit ourbellinis.com.
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FOOD & DRINK
5
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Brett Hubbard
Owner of Bluff Park Diner PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Bluff Park Diner owner Brett Hubbard got his start in the food industry, working at Western Supermarkets for 21 years. In August 2019, Brett purchased Bluff Park Diner to venture into the world of entrepreneurship, and he has enjoyed being in business in the Shades Mountain community since. Bluff Park Diner has been a staple in the community for nearly 45 years. In the late ‘70s and ‘80s, the diner’s moniker was Bert’s on the Bluff, but no matter the name or ownership, customers would always be guaranteed good food with even greater service. Here, Brett offers insight on the family-friendly diner of which so many Hoover residents have come to know and love. chicken are our most popular entrees. If you’re not in the mood for fried foods, the turkey with homemade dressing, beef tips or baked chicken would be highly recommended. My personal favorites are What types of foods does Bluff Park our homemade vegetable beef soup (served Diner serve, and which make this on Wednesdays) and fried okra dipped in business stand out from other similar ranch dressing. businesses? We are a Southern-cooking, meat and What mantra does your staff live by three diner with a pretty traditional menu when it comes to friendly service? of entrees such as fried catfish, fried We don’t have a regular saying, but I try chicken, pork chops, beef tips and baked to instill in everyone to treat others how chicken to name a few. We also have a big they would want to be treated. I try to selection of cakes and pies, which are all always manage my employees with respect, locally made, including cobblers, bread fairness and honesty, and this keeps What is your favorite part of your job? pudding and a jumbo chocolate chip everyone in good spirits. Kindness goes a I like working here because I enjoy cookie that is always served warm. I think long way. having the freedom to make decisions what makes us stand out is a combination Visit Bluff Park Diner at 591 Shades about what we do and how we do it. I have of things. We serve tasty, consistent, comfort food, served by a friendly staff in a Crest Road. The diner is open Mondaythe best staff, which I am very grateful for, Friday from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Customers and they enable me to not have to be there clean, family-friendly environment. can view the full menu at bluffparkdiner. at all hours, so I can spend more time with What foods would you recommend com. my family. Bluff Park is like my home newcomers try first, and which food is because I grew up down the street in Birchtree and have lived most of my life in your favorite? The fried catfish, pork chops and fried Hoover. The relationships that my wife What does a day in the life look like for you? As the acting manager and owner of the iconic Bluff Park Diner, I am responsible for everything that takes place at the diner, including the business’s sales/profit, food quality, service, sanitation, bookkeeping, personnel, scheduling, community involvement, advertising and more. I oversee the restaurant’s inventory, keep the equipment in good repair, procure products and assist my employees with setting up on a daily basis. The diner's menu and atmosphere will always be two aspects that keep customers coming back.
and I have made with employees, customers and the people of surrounding businesses make it worth getting up to go to work everyday.
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Hoover | Special Advertising Section
DINING GUIDE Hoover + Vestavia Hills
4441 CREEKSIDE AVE #133 • HOOVER, AL 35244 ROCKNROLLSUSHI.COM/LOCATIONS/HOOVER-AL • 205-733-6600
Rock N Roll Sushi Rock N Roll Sushi is an exciting culinary
experience that fuses the energy of rock ‘n’ roll with the flavors of sushi. With a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere, this restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. From classic rolls to inventive creations, each dish is meticulously crafted using fresh and top-quality ingredients. The friendly and attentive staff ensures every visit is memorable, providing a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience for all who step through its doors.
5541 GROVE BLVD STE 111 • HOOVER, AL 35226
HEIGHTS VILLAGE, 3144 • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35243
THEGROVE.THECASUALPINT.COM • 205-783-1108
TROUPSPIZZA.COM • 205-536-6860
The Casual Pint The Casual Pint at the Grove is your one-
stop shop for beer, wine and your favorite American foods with a bit of a cultural twist. With 35 craft beers on tap, numerous wines from across the globe and a plethora of cold drinks, we’re sure to find you a drink that you love. Come in for drinks but stay for our giant pretzel wurst platter and classic cheeseburger. Visit our website for more.
50 Winter 2023
Troup’s Pizza Chili and soups have arrived at family-owned
Troup’s Pizza. Smoked brisket chili is a regular staple for the fall and winter months, while soups rotate weekly. As always, they are proud to offer fresh, delicious and unpretentious pizza, sandwiches and salads. Chef Terrill Brazelton and his wife, Ashley, express their passion and commitment to locally-sourced foods by supporting local farmers. Troup’s Pizza is open for lunch Tuesday-Saturday and dinner every night. Catering is always available.
Special Advertising Section | Hoover
DINING GUIDE
3325 ROCKY RIDGE PLZ • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35243
3144 GREEN VALLEY RD • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35243
THERIDGEALABAMA.COM • 205-917-5080
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The Ridge Eat & Drink Birmingham’s friendliest family
dining experience is The Ridge Eat and Drink! Located on Rocky Ridge Road in Vestavia, The Ridge offers a fantastic selection of American fare. From custom burgers to original sandwiches and entrees that will impress any fine food lover, our menu has something for everyone. The Ridge is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, as well as on Sunday for brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Mudtown Eat & Drink Here at Mudtown, we’re as local as it gets. Join us for lunch and dinner seven days a week, plus brunch on the weekends from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Our menu is fantastic, fresh and fun. Enjoy the laid back, inviting atmosphere, and grab a cold drink. We can’t wait to see you!
700 MONTGOMERY HWY UNIT 193 • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35216
3009 PUMPHOUSE RD STE 110 • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35243
DAVENPORTSPIZZA.COM • 205-407-4747
WALDOSCHICKEN.COM • 205-635-0002
Davenport’s Pizza Palace Visit us in the Vestavia City
Center or at our original Mountain Brook location for award-winning pizza, a fresh garden salad and the coldest beer in town! Our dough and sauce are made from scratch, using the same family recipes for almost 60 years. Our party room is available for birthday parties, family celebrations, sports team events and more. Our Vestavia location features a bar with TV’s to watch your favorite team and outdoor seating! Davenport’s Pizza Palace has been family-owned and operated since 1964.
Waldo’s Chicken & Beer Waldo’s Chicken and Beer is
a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in hand-breaded chicken, scratch-made sides and ice cold beer, all served with first class customer service. Waldo’s humble coop is no frills, comfortable and great for groups of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite at the bar, a spot to gather with your crew and watch the game or a great crowd-pleaser catering option, Waldo’s is your go-to.
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52 Winter 2023
&STYLE
HOME
OUR HOME
Bryant and Morgan Bruce’s home is not only beautiful, but it is also perfect for a growing family. BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER HooversMagazine.com 53
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Bryant and Morgan Bruce’s love story started in Tuscaloosa, where they both attended college at the University of Alabama. They tied the knot after graduating in 2014 and moved to Birmingham– Lake Wilborn, specifically–in 2018 to be closer to their families before starting one of their own. The Hoover area drew the newlyweds thanks to its family-friendly neighborhoods, stellar school system and plethora of places to shop, mingle and eat. Hoover has everything, Morgan adds. “When we heard about Lake Wilborn, we jumped in on the first phase of building and were extremely grateful we did,” Morgan says. “We visited the neighborhood site to pick out and design our home when there was nothing but flattened land and a construction trailer. Seeing it finished now is so amazing.” The couple opted for a modern transitional aesthetic, keeping contemporary elements in mind that would help their home grow as their family did, too. The Bruces welcomed their first daughter, Elliott, 4, who was soon after followed by her younger sister, Palmer, 1. Morgan says it’s important to her family to make sure their home’s design not only accommodates their young children, but it also feels homey and warm. One of Morgan’s favorite rooms is Palmer’s nursery, which is decorated in a baby pink and white color palette. Functionality is just as important as aesthetic to Morgan, so she prioritized sourcing durable furniture that is made to last–sofas and chairs with washable slipcovers are also a must, she says. “I love the space we’ve been able to create and the nurture and growth of our family since moving in,” Morgan says. “Bringing both of our beautiful girls home to this house takes the cake and is so special to us. Hosting friends and family brings us so much joy. We’re grateful [this house] allows us these opportunities.”
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Living Room Morgan likes the modern transitional aesthetic because it is a blend of timeless and trendy decor.
This glass coffee table is the perfect touch of modernity when paired with Morgan’s traditional living room furniture.
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Kitchen The white, marble-design quartz countertops paired with the white cabinets left the kitchen feeling a little sterile, so Morgan brought in some color with the Persian runner. Located in downtown Homewood!
Let us help you put your best foot forward! @shoeflyhomewood
Master Bedroom Neutrals are a great base for any room’s color palette as they can be paired with any pops of color.
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Master Bathroom The Bruces' master bathroom features a sleek, marbledtile design from the floor up to the ceiling, as well as an oversized shower and custom mirrors.
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Elliott’s Bedroom Elliott’s daybed features sweet layers of baby pink and blush, and the throw pillows’ monogrammed initials bring out such a soft touch of sky blue to balance out the room’s colors and grand millennial style.
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Palmer's Nursery Morgan loved decorating her daughter’s nursery because these moments reminded her of just how sweet motherhood is.
Sweet Memories One of the most beautiful aspects of the Bruces' home is how many memories are framed as if they’re tangible moments in time. 60 Winter 2023
Playroom The “Olivia” series is a family favorite of Elliott and Palmer.
The girls spend a lot of their time playing in their “princess tent” and reading stories.
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g n i p p a r Wp s s e n i p u Hap
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Many moments in life are worth celebrating. Whether the occasion is a birthday, graduation, wedding, newborn arrival or anniversary, all these life events call for joyous observance through giftgiving. Nothing makes a gift more special than the thoughtfulness in its selection and presentation, which makes Wrapsody, a local gift boutique that excels at this process, a great place to find the perfect gift for any occasion. At Wrapsody, store-goers can meander inside to discover a plethora of products designed for all ages. Their eyes might first catch a splash of color from a nearby dress rack or they may smell the lovely aromas of candles, body lotions and perfume
on an adjacent display shelf. Either way, friendly retail associates called “Wrappettes” help customers make their selections before tenderly wrapping the gifts in an assortment of cellophane, tissue paper, ribbons and stickers. “We gift wrap it as the cherry on top,” says Christie Howell, owner of Wrapsody. Customers do not have to worry about the extra step of wrapping their present and can instead go directly to a dinner party with their beautifully wrapped hostess gift, she says. Offering quality experiences for customers is even more important as online shopping has increased over the years, and Wrapsody likes to be HooversMagazine.com 65
that difference when people come in, Christie says. Wrapsody’s commitment to customer care is evident in its success. On Friday, Sept. 8, the store won the Gold Retailer of the Year Award from the Alabama Retail Association in the Annual Sales $5 million to $20 million category. Wrapsody’s expansion efforts helped it win the award, Christie says that she was told. “I’m so honored to have won that,” Christie says. “I feel like that is a huge accomplishment for not only myself, but also all the people that I work with.” When Wrapsody was founded in 2004 by Terry Shea and Sarah Brown, they started with a Hoover 66 Winter 2023
location before adding an Auburn store five years later. In 2017, the owners decided to sell the business to Christie, who had worked at Wrapsody during her college years at Auburn. Once the leadership passed to her, Christie and her husband opened a third Trussville location in May 2020, despite the difficulties that the pandemic created. “That was an interesting time to open a store,” she says “We had finished the build-out, done all those things and we said, ‘Let’s just open and see what happens.” The store’s opening went well despite the pandemic, and it continues to serve its customers to
this day. Wrapsody’s expansion, however, does not end there. A new location in downtown Homewood opened on Oct. 4, and Christie plans for a fifth location to open in Huntsville in 2024. Christie credits part of Wrapsody’s success to the store’s customer base, especially during the pandemic. “Our customers have been so loyal to us and keep coming in every single day, and it really has been a whirlwind the last three years,” she says. When it comes to shopping, Wrapsody provides a wide variety of products to choose from. The stores sell everything from clothes, shoes, jewelry and accessories to pottery, decor, body and bath products and more. “We have lots of different products from home products to every candle that you can imagine,” says Nicole Mezrano, store manager at the Trussville location. Some of Christie’s favorite products include the NEST New York candles and fragrances. “I’m a big candle fan,” she says of NEST. For Hoover assistant store manager, Angel Harris, it’s the fashion and accessories that catch her eye. “We love our eNewton bracelets,” she says. Oliver Thomas, a fashion bag brand, is another one of her favorites in the store. Not only do customers get to choose from a wide variety of
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We like to say that we’re wrapping up happiness every day. -Christie Howell products, but the gifts are also catered to various ages and life events such as weddings, anniversaries and new arrivals. The gift wrapping is also customized, depending on the event. For instance, pink and blue sheer ribbons are used for baby gifts, while white ribbon is bound on wedding presents. Besides offering a wide range of products, Wrapsody also puts on special events throughout the year for customers to enjoy. In November, Wrapsody has a company-wide Christmas open house sale, and in May, an event called “Girls Day Out.” During these events, customers can buy products at a discount, receive door prizes and grab a swag bag, all while eating provided appetizers. Around Eastertime in spring, the season denoting new life, the store holds an event called “Chicks and Ducks,” which allows customers to observe and pet
baby chicks and ducks in the store. “It’s just a fun tradition that we have carried on from the previous owners,” Christie says. While special events provide high-energy, celebratory moments among customers, other subtle moments bring enjoyment. According to Angel, one woman who lost her husband and moved to Hoover, came into Wrapsody to shop. The visit became the highlight of her week and she continued to shop there. “She’s literally said that we helped her get through that year,” Angel says. Additional customers become close to the staff that work in the stores. “The customers that we have become like family,” Nicole says. One customer who went on a vacation brought
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back chocolates from Ireland to share with the staff, Nicole says. In addition to befriending customers, Wrapsody helps communities by supporting Alabama businesses and fundraising for local causes. For instance, a line of lotions comes from 1818 Farms, a bath and beauty brand and farm in Mooresville, Alabama. Wrapsody also features Joyce’s Cheese Straws, an Alabama-based company. Birmingham artist Porter Rivers sells his watercolor art in the store as well. In addition, Christie spent time teaching before taking over Wrapsody, so the store helps fundraise for local schools in Auburn, Hoover and Trussville. “Most of our customers have children in the local schools, and I just feel like that’s important to give to,” Christie says. Whether it is putting on special events, supporting local causes, featuring Alabama vendors or befriending customers, Wrapsody tries to provide customers with positive experiences that will stay with them after they leave. The store name, itself, is a play-on word for “Rhapsody,” denoting high enthusiasm, joy and bliss. “We hope our customers leave that way,” Christie says of Wrapsody’s moniker. “We like to say that we’re wrapping up happiness every day.” To learn more about Wrapsody, visit wrapsodyonline. com or follow the business on Instagram @shopwrapsody.
DR. EDGAR LUNA, DMD
(205) 822-6669 2496 Rocky Ridge Rd. Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 70 Winter 2023
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EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY IN NAPA By Christiana Roussel | Photos by Visit Napa Valley & Contributed
Whether you’ve been to Napa a dozen times or this Northern California destination is just now rising to the top of your travel bucket list, proper planning will ensure you’re able to experience the most of this singular hot spot.
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BACKGROUND Napa Valley is one of those rare and wondrous regions where the climate, soil and topography—often referred to as ‘terroir’— meld to foster the ideal environment for growing outstanding grapes. These grapes are then painstakingly and lovingly converted into wine, making this some of the most covetable farmland in the country. At its core, Napa Valley is a farming community. Agriculturally, Napa Valley was classified as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1981, as California’s first AVA. This designation establishes defined growing areas which reflect regional-specific terroir. Within the Napa Valley AVA, there are 16 distinct—or ‘nested’—AVAs with names you’ll surely recognize: Stags Leap, Atlas Peak, Rutherford and St. Helena. Relaxed, convivial, teeming with pride and eager to share the bounty of their home, locals welcome visitors year-round to experience their life’s work. 74 Winter 2023
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO With such a wealth of things to do and see, sip and taste, planning a trip to Napa can feel a little overwhelming. You want to do it all! Enlisting the help of a dedicated and experienced travel advisor ensures you spend less time in the car and more time immersed in Napa culture. Birmingham resident Anne Tilson Varner founded Portiera Travel as a way to share her love of the region. “I’ve spent the past two decades traveling to Napa, and in that time, I have gotten to know and become friends with so many wonderful people,” Anne says. “Locals are the greatest asset in planning Portiera excursions, and I am grateful for these cultivated relationships.” Her office boasts bookshelves of binders created for friends and clients, each with well-timed itineraries and lists of not-to-bemissed hotspots. Anne says three or four days in Napa is a great place to begin your journey. portieratravel.com
Photo contributed by Portiera Travel
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HIT THE ROAD The length of Napa Valley runs roughly 30 miles, from downtown Napa to Calistoga on the North end; in between, you’ll find the towns of St. Helena and Yountville. Each town definitely has its own vibe and feel. In downtown Napa, trace your way along the Napa River to The Oxbow Public Market, which shows off the best of this agricultural region and is a must-do. Pop into Gott’s Roadside for an epic burger before you hit your afternoon wineries. Yountville is as picture-postcardperfect as you can imagine (and home to Thomas Keller’s Michelin-starred The French Laundry restaurant), while St. Helena is a shopper’s dream (La Bohème and Christopher Hill Gallery are two favorites).
and burrata on toast. Make sure you find the hidden entrance to the downstairs pub for a clubby vibe. Serious culinary enthusiasts will want to pop in to the Culinary Institute of America for a tour and a nosh. If spas are your thing, then head straight to geothermal hot springs-centric Calistoga, where founder Samuel Brannan modeled the entire town on the hot springs of Saratoga, New York. The mud and mineral springs here are known to have a therapeutic effect like no other. Earn that massage with a bike ride to Old Faithful Geyser of California.
Still not sure where to begin in planning your trip? We asked Anne to put together a sample itinerary for readers, with notable places to If you’re feeling peckish, plan a stop at Goose stay, wineries to visit and her favorite & Gander for some chicharrones or mushroom restaurants:
South Napa
Resort: Stanly Ranch, an Auberge Resort Property (Budget Alternative: Andaz Napa) Tasting: Hudson Ranch (amazing Chardonnays; beautiful property) Lunch: Farm at Carneros Resort Tasting: Darioush Winery (interesting architecture and history) Dinner: Scala Osteria
Mid Napa Valley
Hotel: Poetry Inn, a luxurious B&B perched above Silverado Trail. (Budget Alternative: The Estate Yountville) Tasting: David Arthur Vineyards (high above Pritchard Hill with spectacular views) Lunch: Brix Restaurant in the Garden
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Tasting: Staglin Family Vineyards (philanthropic family and where the 1998 version of “The Parent Trap” was filmed) Dinner: RH Restaurant Yountville (Alternative: if you want a casual dinner, head towards Ciccio, newly reopened)
North Napa - St. Helena / Calistoga
Resort: Meadowood Napa Valley (Budget Alternative: The Bungalows at Calistoga eclectic, warm fun) Tasting: Heritage School Vineyards (interesting history and amazing property) Lunch: Sam’s Social Club Tasting: Schramsberg (founded 1862, famous for bubbles and more)
Dinner: Brasswood Bar & Kitchen (look around for some of the local vintner rock stars who are known to haunt this place) Anne is quick to note that while many of the larger wineries accept walk-ins for tastings, the smaller boutique wineries request or require reservations. “Often times, guests are meeting the vintner themselves, touring their family’s vineyard, with a private tour of the operations,” Anne says. “These are intimate experiences, best planned well in advance.”
NAPA FOR THE NON-DRINKERS You don’t have to be an oenophile or imbibe daily to enjoy Napa Valley—there are plenty of activities here that don’t require stemmed glassware. •
BIKING—Napa Valley Vine Trail—this 12.5-mile trail that runs from South Napa to Yountville will eventually become a 47-mile walking and biking trail system. Rent ebikes from Napa Valley eBikes.
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HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES—Combine your bike adventure with a hot air balloon ride at Napa Valley Bike Tours, or book an escape with Napa Valley Aloft.
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MUSEUMS & PERFORMING ARTS—Wine isn’t the only culture here. The di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art merits a visit, while viewing the sculptures of Napa and Yountville beckon in the afternoon. The notable Rail Arts District (RAD) features two miles of interactive public art, easily viewed on foot or by bicycle.
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KAYAK or SUP on the Napa River
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HIKING—There are more than two dozen trails in the Napa Valley area alone—pick up a local guide or plan your route in advance using the Trail finder feature of visitnapavalley.com. You can sort your stroll by level of difficulty, length or vista, and if you happen to time your stay with the full moon, join up with the folks at Napa Valley Land Trust for their scheduled nighttime hike.
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SPA DAY—There are more than a dozen spas in the area, many of which offer the signature Calistoga mud bath treatment that will have you channeling your inner zen in no time.
NAPA COMES TO BIRMINGHAM TUMTUM TREE FOUNDATION
As America’s longest-running wine auction supporting children’s charities, TumTum Tree Foundation has attracted Napa Valley winemaker luminaries to Birmingham for more than 30 years. What began in Frank and Pardis Stitt’s beloved Bottega dining room has grown into something altogether life-changing. From that first year where $25,000 was raised for Magic Moments, TumTum Tree Foundation has grown, now boasting more than $16 million in donations, positively impacting the lives of children engaged in services provided by The Red Barn, Mitchell’s Place, Camp Smile-a-Mile, UAB Arts in Medicine and several others. Photo by TumTum Tree Foundation
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING
holiday
GIF T GUIDE 3 1 2
1. Julie Vos Tudor Statement Necklace Our showstopping pendant features cushion cut, iridescent clear crystals suspended from a handmade, 24K gold plate adjustable link chain. $325. Brombergs. 2800 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 871-3276. brombergs.com
2. Bunny Portrait Plates Hunt Slonem’s famous bunnies, butterflies and much, much more come to life on his artfully designed accessories and home goods. Available in a rainbow of colors. $60. Heezie’s. 81 Church St, Suite 101, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 874-6278. heezies.com
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3. Rosehip Oil and Gua Sha Gift Set Indulge your skin with the Eminence Organics Rosehip Oil and Gua Sha Gift Set. This duo is designed to deliver a relaxing, home facial massage that leaves skin feeling soft, plump and invigorated. $118. Retreat Day Spa. 3920 Crosshaven Dr, Suite 100, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 834-8349. theretreatbham.com
4. Kiki Dress-Queen City The Kiki Dress in our Queen City print comes from an exclusive collaboration with Chan Art. It has a figure-flattering appeal with a fun design that will make you stand out. $318. Dukes Clothier. 53 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 739-2244. dukesclothier.com
5. Aqua Oyster Plate with Gold Detailing This Oyster Plate is also available in cobalt, white and pink. Oyster Plates are perfect for serving raw oysters, table setting or wall decor. These are a traditional favorite in New Orleans at some of the best restaurants. $58. Interiors by Kathy Harris. 3157 Cahaba Heights Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 970-4161. facebook.com/interiorsbykathyharris
6. Feridies Snack Mix and Peanuts Feridies are a perfect stocking stuffer, dirty Santa gift or holiday gathering snack. They are available in a variety of flavors, ranging from salted peanuts to spicy guac cocktail crunch. $8-$10.50. The Cook Store. 2841 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 879-5277. thecookstoremtnbrook.com
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7. Barocco Ruby Glasses by Vietri The artful etchings, stately shapes and rich color of the Barocco Collection by Vietri honor Italy’s 17th-century Baroque period and bring a gracious grandeur to your gatherings. Double old fashioned $34. Wine $36. Table Matters. 2402 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 879-0125. table-matters.com
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8. Fairway & Greene Quarter Zip Pullover The Caves Quarter Zip Pullover is a great gift for the holidays from Bandwagon! This custom, VH pullover is made from a Wicking/Polyester/Spandex Double Jersey blend that is comfortable on and off the course. $142. Bandwagon Sports. 3120 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 639-1571. bandwagonsports.com
9. SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum This next-generation, skin rejuvenating formula improves the appearance of coarse wrinkles, fine lines, skin tone and texture. It’s the only growth factor product proven to address sagging skin. Apply it in the a.m. and p.m. after cleansing! Where to apply: Apply to your entire face (neck and chest, too)! $295. Village Dermatology. 2900 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 877-9773. villagedermatology.net
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10. Okara Color Shampoo and Conditioner and Naturia Dry Shampoo With natural Okara and Hamamelis extracts, this gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and nourishing conditioner for color-treated hair enhances vibrancy, extends longevity and instantly restores softness and shine. The plant-based, invisible-finish dry shampoo cleanses, refreshes and adds volume between washes. $34-$38. Oak Street Hair Group. 125 Oak St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 879-3222. oakstreethairgroup.com
11. Variety of Jewelry and Accessories On top of our high-end consignment selection, Consigned Design offers a large variety of new jewelry for any style, budget and occasion. Visit us for thousands of jewelry pieces for your holiday parties or gifting needs this holiday season. Gift certificates are available. Consigned Design. 72 Fulton Springs Rd, Suite A, Alabaster, AL 35007. (205) 664-7540. consigned.design
12. Cocktail Bar Tool Roll Up
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This bar tool set by Oak and Olive includes six stainless steel bar tools. The vegan leather roll-up case makes for easy storage or travel. Liven up your next holiday party or gift by being an aspiring mixologist. $68. Crestline Pharmacy. 60 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 871-0317. facebook.com/crestlinepharmacy
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13. Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment The “it girl” moisturizer for all skin types. Supports healthier-looking skin, resulting in improved appearance of skin radiance, suppleness and smoothness. Enjoy heavy hydration without the weight. $150. Gunn Dermatology. 32 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213; 391 Rele St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 415-7536. gunndermatology.com
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14. Custom Kitchen Towels Bring or email us your favorite keepsake recipes or photos, and we will reproduce them on a flour sack, kitchen towel or one of our many personalized gifts! These are a great way to bring these memories to life. Available next day. $21. Fun Stuff. 3370 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. (205) 823-3688. funstuffgifts.com
15. Local Framed Prints Our towns, our teams and our schools hold special places in our hearts. Give them a special place to shine with one of our framed black and white or watercolor prints by local artist Jennifer Coggin and Messy Heart Studio. 8x10 $40. 11x14 $50. Rocky Ridge Drug Co. 3346 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. (205) 259-7100. rockyridgedrugco.com
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16. Diamond Cross Pendants Show off the reason for the season with these lovely diamond and gold pendants. Available in 1/8-1 carat in yellow, white or rose gold. $500-$2,800. Cummings Jewelry Design. 3166 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 298-9144. cummingsjewelrydesign.com
17. Deco Soirée Two-Tone 18K GoldPlated Diamond Watch
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She will love this iconic Deco Soirée timepiece featuring hand-set sapphires, citrines, garnets, diopsides, amethysts and 12 brilliant diamonds. Whimsy and class collide to form this truly unique and unforgettable gift. $2,695. BartonClay Fine Jewelers. 330 Rele St, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 371-7060. bartonclay. com
18. Anti-aging Light Therapy Devices The latest FDA CLEARED, total complexion, anti-aging light therapy device to treat lines, wrinkles and clear acne with the DRx FaceWare Pro Masque LED. Experience a total complexion transformation. The FDA CLEARED DRx EyeCare Max Pro is the next-generation LED eye treatment that provides a larger coverage area and more lights to better treat crow’s feet, under-eye area and elevens. $455. $199. Woodhouse Spa. 125 Summit Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35243. (205) 905-7676. birmingham.woodhousespas.com
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21 19. Custom Birmingham Ornament Each Huras Brothers ornament is individually mouthblown, silvered and hand-painted, using traditional methods from the 1800s. In this special edition, Santa’s convertible has been customized for Birmingham! Available only at Table Matters. $58. Table Matters. 2402 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 879-0125. table-matters.com
20. Jingle Bell, Nutcracker, Snowflake and Tree Wine Stopper
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Celebrate life’s most meaningful moments while commemorating favorite holiday memories along the way with our new, gorgeous wine stoppers! They are perfect for gifting, using them yourself or just as decor all season long! $19. Clover + Bee. 3150 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 972-1414. shopcloverandbee.com
21. Pajama Pants GiGi’s carries fun, printed soft fleece pajama shorts that all girls adore! Each style of pants has different, vibrant patterns and are the perfect gift for any occasion. $36. GiGi’s. 3140 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 593-4586. gigisbham.com
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22. My Favorite Sports Bag The Lili Pad has plenty of gift items that are perfect for any occasion, including this adorable plush sports bag that is safe for your little athlete. $36. The Lili Pad. 3138 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 298-1811. lilipadbham.com
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23. Gift Certificates The gift certificates can be whatever amount the purchaser deems desirable and does not include tax, alcohol or gratuity. The gift certificate is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Satterfield’s Restaurant. 3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 969-9690. satterfieldsrestaurant.com
24. Hatley Waterproof Set Puddles, beware! This waterproof set by Hatley is the perfect gift for rainy days. The rainboots are sherpalined and slip resistant. The umbrella and jacket feature fun raindrops that change color when wet. Boots $60. Umbrella $24. Jacket $75. Little Soles. 4232 Dolly Ridge Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 970-6990. facebook.com/littlesoleschildrensshoes
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25. Handblown Glass Flutes and Glasses
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Handblown glass rainbow champagne flutes with gold accents are perfect for any gift occasion. You can combine them with our fabulous, vibrant, lacquer-coated sugar plum wine glasses for a festive look. Flutes $19.95. Wine $16.95. The Blue Willow. 3930 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 968-0909. thebluewillow.com
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26. Bitzee Experience a world of digital pets in the palm of your hand! Introducing Bitzee, the digital pet you can touch and feel! Bitzee interactive pets respond to swipes, tilts and touch with sounds and reactions! $29.99. Learning Express Toys & Gifts. 3132 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 970-9710. learningexpress.com/bham
27. K’lani Hair Tie/Bracelet These affordable and adorable bracelet stacks also work as the best hair ties. Girls ages 8-88 love them! Lose the boring hair tie on your wrists, and grab K’lani today! $22.95. Secondhand Rose. 4200 Oakview Ln, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 970-7997. secondhandroseal.com
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28. Fuzzy Footies Fuzzy Footies are a fun, soft way to keep your feet warm. They are great for traveling and lounging about, whether you’re in a hotel room or your living room. Featuring slip resistant bottoms, Fuzzy Footies have several colors to choose from. $12.99. Flip Flops and What Nots. 4 137 White Oak Drive, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 967-7429. flipflopsandwhatnots.com
29. Gift Certificates The gift certificates can be whatever amount the purchaser deems desirable and does not include tax, alcohol or gratuity. The gift certificate is valid for one year from the date of purchase. El ZunZún. 4105 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243. (205) 791-7711. el-zunzun.com
30. 14K Yellow Gold Engravable Pendant Toggle Necklace Southeastern Jewelers offers jewelry for any style. Give the gift of timeless elegance with our 14K yellow gold engravable pendant toggle necklace. This piece combines elegance and personalization, making it the perfect gift this holiday season. $505. Southeastern Jewelers. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Suite 111, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 980-9030. southeasternjewelers.net
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31. Elegant Faux Fur Vest Explore unmatched elegance with our women’s faux fur vests. From timeless classics to trendsetting designs, choose from three distinctive styles to elevate your wardrobe with top-tier warmth and style. Baker Lamps & Linens. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Suite 115, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 981-3330. bakerlampsandlinens.com
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32. Bella Cavo Stackable Bracelets Lightweight, stackable and easy to wear, the Bella Cavo Collection fits any fashion taste and occasion. With simulated diamonds and precious stones, they are available in silver, gold and rose gold tones. They create a stylish, versatile look when worn independently and when layered together. $100-$400. M&M Jewelers. 440 Inverness Cors, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 991-0593. mmjewelersbirmingham.com
33. Award-winning Skincare Products Achieve maximum results with a comprehensive collection of Revision Skincare products. This ultimate ritual targets all visible signs of aging and protects against further damage to uncover younger, healthierlooking skin. Receive 20-percent off when you purchase three Revision products. This offer expires on Dec. 21. $40-$225. Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery. 2700 US-280, Suite 300 W, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 930-9595. drrousso.com
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34. R+Co BLEU Shampoo and Conditioner R+Co BLEU is the couture-caliber capsule collection from R+Co. Combining modernity and style with breakthrough innovations in formulation, sustainability and iconic packaging design, this new range brings glamour, sophistication and unparalleled quality to daily hair care. $59. French and Tower Salon. 2904 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 538-5926. frenchandtowerssalonco.com
35. Nest Candles Mantooth Interiors is your home for all Nest collections and fragrances. Our large selection of holiday scents make the perfect gift for friends and family. $49. Mantooth Interiors. 2813 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-5474. mantoothinteriors.com
36. Cookies For one cookie or hundreds, Cookie Fix will sweeten your holidays with special holiday flavors and traditional favorites. Cookies from $2.75. Cookie Fix. 2854 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 582-2623. cookiefix.com
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37. Game Day Sweatshirts Slightly cropped with a relaxed fit, these cozy gameday sweatshirts make the perfect gift this holiday season. $60. Home Accents. 2750 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124. (205) 621-2039. homeaccentsonline.com
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38. Earrings One pair of 18K Yellow Gold Diamond and Emerald Earrings. There are two, square cut emeralds with a 5.50 ct. total weight and 96 brilliant cut diamonds with a 2.50 ct. total weight. $15,000. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles. 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 874-1044. wallaceburke.com
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39. Campo DE’ Fiori Aged Terra Cotta For everyday use and for most plant choices, our wide assortment of classic pots make the perfect gift. The terra cotta pots are covered in dormant moss. Simply add water and watch your lush moss grow. Prices start as low as $28. Sweet Pea Garden. 2829 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-3839. sweetpeasgardenshop.com
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40. Ansen Glass Vase, Tall This tall, glass vase has blue and gold tones. Through each collection, we hone in on our strongest passion–finding the perfect balance between timeless antiques and updated classics. Our designs are driven by an aspiration towards unrivaled quality at a sound cost. Each piece is sourced and handpicked from our many partnerships with artisans and manufacturers across the globe. The pieces that comprise our brand promise to spark conversations and create a simple, yet bold magic within a home. Large $54.99. Small $44.99. The Prickly Pear. 2645 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124. (205) 471-7250. thepricklypearonline.com
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41. Magna-Tiles Dino World XL Something tropic-cool has arrived! The award-winning Dino World XL set is larger than life with oversized tropical-themed tiles, all six of the Magna-Tiles dinosaurs and new-to-the-world magnetic trees. Extra large, open-ended and imaginative play potential awaits! $139.99. Homewood Toy and Hobby. 2830 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-3986. homewoodtoy-hobby.com
42. Chanel coaster, little books of... candle box set These Chanel coasters, coffee table books and candles make the perfect holiday decorations for your tablescapes. Chanel coaster $18. Little books of... $16.95. Candle box set $42. At Home Furnishings. 2921 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-3510. shopathomefurnishings.com
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43. Oliver Thomas 24 + 7 Weekender Duffle This is the perfect, machine washable, lightweight travel partner with enough pockets and compartments to provide ultimate organization. The stay-together strap helps secure the shoulder straps, keeping them on your shoulder where they belong. Unless you choose to wear the bag as a crossbody, use the detachable, webbed strap for a total hands-free option. $175. ShoeFly. 2823 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 870-7131. instagram.com/shoeflyhomewood
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44. EMU Stinger Micro Platform Chestnut The EMU Stinger Micro Platforms are Australian sheepskin boots. These are sheepskin-lined mini boots with durable rubber outsoles and molded heel cups. $169. ShoeFly. 2823 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 870-7131. instagram.com/shoeflyhomewood
45. 2024 Jayco Pinnacle RV 2024 Jayco RV–exclusive fully loaded Pinnacle. All it needs is a big red bow! Come tour your new RV at Burton Campers, your locally owned Jayco dealership. You can always be certain with Burton! Burton Campers. 320 Hwy 304, Calera, AL 35040. (205) 668-0075. burtoncampers.com
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46. Gift Box
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Delightfully scented, plant-based soaps and skincare products that are handmade daily in our local shops are wonderful gifts! Our artisan soap bars, bath bombs, shower oils, body butters, body scrubs, laundry soaps, scent boosters and home fragrances all smell wonderful. $5-$59. Buff City Soap. Multiple locations. See ad for details. buffcitysoap.com
47. Kids Clothing
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Discover stylish children’s clothing and all your kids’ needs at unbeatable prices. Once Upon A Child Hoover is your one-stop shop, specializing in reselling gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear in sizes preemie to 18/20. Join our rewards program and earn points every time you shop! Once Upon A Child. 3718 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216. (205) 341-7384. onceuponachild.com/locations/hoover-al
48. Valmont and Knesko Skincare Valmont Prime 24-hour Cream’s energizing complex stimulates cell vitality and hydrates the surface of the skin. Melting in an instant, it leaves an imperceptible, protective veil, loaded with benefits. Knesko Diamond Radiance Collagen Face Masks are infused with real diamonds for bright, energized, radiant skin. Say “hello” to hydrated skin and an ultra-relaxing, spa-level facial experience. $155-$240. Renaissance Ross Bridge. 4000 Grand Ave, Birmingham, AL 35226. (205) 916-7677. rossbridgeresort.com
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Winter 2023 Events Nov. 7 8:30-9:30 a.m. Entrepreneurial Council Meeting The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Nov. 9 7:30-9 a.m. Coffee and Contacts TBA Nov. 16 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Monthly Membership Luncheon The Finely Center, Hoover Met Complex Dec. 14 7:30-9 a.m. Member Appreciation Breakfast Riverchase Galleria adjacent to The Carousel
Flip the Switch Mary-Coker Green is a junior at Auburn University, studying agriculture business and economics, as well as public relations. She currently serves as a student recruiter, a Panhellenic representative and is the 2022 Miss Hoover. Mary-Coker is also an advocate for a group of people that according to her, mean more than this article can express. During her senior year of high school, Mary-Coker was in a head-on collision that claimed the life of the man whose car hit hers. Amid a global pandemic and looking toward transition to college, she says she struggled with PTSD, anxiety, triggers and a brain that wouldn’t seem to settle. Learning to manage this in her own life, Mary-Coker developed a heart for others who experience trauma, especially in transitional phases of life. Mary-Coker founded “Flip the Switch: a mental wellness campaign,” as an organization whose mission is to engage others in conversations around mental wellness. One of the main focuses of “Flip the Switch” is to cultivate a community that walks together as they journey toward healthy mental and emotional habits. Mary-Coker soon after published her first book, “The Girl Who Grew a Garden,” to aid children in their journey of trauma as they learn to express their grief
3000 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA 86 Winter 2023
and gratitude simultaneously. Mary-Coker partners with Trauma Free World, a global nonprofit organization, and together, they are developing resources specifically for those who experience trauma in some of life’s most difficult, transitional moments. “Flip the Switch” has raised more than $30,000 and has reached more than 10 million people. Follow @fliptheswitch.mc on Instagram or “Flip the Switch” on Facebook to learn more about her journey. To purchase copies of “The Girl Who Grew a Garden” or make a donation, direct message Mary-Coker on Instagram and Facebook, or purchase copies on amazon.com. All proceeds support development and distribution of resources for those experiencing trauma.
HOOVER, AL 35244
Celebrating Growth
Charm Thai July 18, 2023
Physicians Care Hoover North July 25, 2023
Physicians Care Hoover South July 25, 2023
Emily’s Heirloom Poundcakes July 27, 2023
Revere July 27, 2023
Pediatric Dental Associates and Samuelson Orthodontics Aug. 4, 2023
HBH Realty Aug. 31, 2023
Walmart Neighborhood Market - Lorna Road Sept. 8, 2023
Apricot Lane Sept. 13, 2023
Baskin Robbins Sept. 16, 2023
205 - 988 - 5672
WWW.HOOVERCHAMBER.ORG HooversMagazine.com 87
New Members uBirmingham Water Works
uClean Juice uBaskin Robbins
uThe Osprey Group, LLC
uKroger Delivery
uPathway Solutions Worldwide, Inc. (EOS Worldwide)
uOS1 sports Injury Clinic
uLa Quinta Inn & Suites
uCandlewood Suites Birmingham/ Inverness
uDevelopers Decide LLC uCottages at Greystone uAcopia Home Loans uVeterinary Orthopedic and Vision Center
uJoyful
uElectromagnetic Marketing uBelk – Riverchase Galleria uAlfa Insurance uAlabama Goods uCommunity Bank
uChurchill Mortgage
uAndrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center
uWings R King
uComplete Health
uThe Lioce Group uPassionHR Consulting
Melissa Austin, ABC 33/40 Television Brooke Wood, Alabama Credit Union - Hoover Dr. Timothy Lee, Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C. Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power Company Jabo Waggoner, Alabama State Senator Zeke Eldridge, Alabama Vein & Restoration Medspa - Chace Circle Raven Bell, AlaTrust Credit Union Craig Reeves, Ambit Solutions, LLC Jylon Jones, American Family Care - Cahaba Beach Road Jody Mattson, AmFirst-Downtown Birmingham Caitlin Brothers, APCO Employees Credit Union John Santamour, Aprio, LLP Terri Williams, AT&T - Alabama Ashley Wilbanks, Avadian Credit Union -Corporate Cheryl Riddle, Bedzzz Express Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. Matthew Rodgers, Benton Nissan of Hoover Ravinda Patel, Bharat LLC Khaled Sakallah, Birmingham Islamic Society Jeremy Ervin, Birmingham Water Works Keith Barfield, BMSS Advisors & CPAs, LLC Anna Beth Standeffer, Broad Metro LLC Tracey Stroeh, Brookdale Senior Living Cathy King, Brown Heating & Cooling Jarrod Edwards, Cadence Bank - Hoover Michelle Torbor MA, Cardinal Wellness Will Hawkins, CB&S Bank Lori Moler, Children’s of Alabama Chris Dorris, Chris Dorris - State Farm Insurance Crystal Dixon, Costco Wholesale Candace Rodgers, Cottages at Greystone Adam Alvis, Diversicare of Riverchase Nicole Self, Express Oil Change/Tire Engineers Corporate Offices Anne Smyth, Galleria Woods Retirement Community Ches Allen, General Informatics Keith Strickland, Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. Leisha Harris, Grandview Medical Center
3000 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA 88 Winter 2023
Thank you to our 2023 Board of Trustees
Len Luther, Gresham, Smith and Partners Ira Levine, Levine & Associates Commercial Real Estate Terry Poole, Long-Lewis of Hoover Meribeth Gilbert, McLeod Software Corporation Christina Bunn, Medical West Hospital Luke Elder, Mercedes Benz of Birmingham Tiffiany Abel Ward, Millennial Bank Chelsea Cook, Ortho Alabama Spine and Sports Rodney Berry, Peoples Bank of Alabama International Park Reggie Torbor, Pylon Building Group Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Bob Adams, Revere Control Systems, Inc. Mike White, Riverchase Galleria Mike Turner, Sherwin-Williams Brian Skelton, Skelton’s Heating, Cooling and Refrigeration Jonathan Belcher, Signature Homes Suzanne W. Bland, Sivirt LLC Michelle Suggs, Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Lynne Butler, South Haven Health & Rehabilitation Center Vivian Mora, Vivian Mora Agency - State Farm Insurance Brandy Bentley, Steak ‘n Shake Terry Rippstein, Terracon Consultants, Inc. Mark Grenier, Topgolf Gus McKenzie, Troy University John Collier, United Community Bank Phillip Corley, Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC Angela Panizzi, WalMart - Hoover #1229 Richard Edwards, WalMart SuperCenter - Highway 280 #2111 Cody Burns, WBRC Fox 6 Television Paul Sutton, werkplas Ellen Chandler, Whataburger Lisa Autry, Your CBD Store
HOOVER, AL 35244
F i n d U s O n l i ne
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Access our member directory
Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors
April DeLuca, Magic City Law, 2023 Board Chair
Rohen Porbanderwala, Lake Crest Chevron, 1st Vice Chair
Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power, 2nd Vice-Chair
Lynn Ray, Business Telephones, Inc., Vice-Chair, Administration
Diana Shaw Knight, Sovereign CPA Group LLC Vice-Chair, Finance
David A. Custred, ACCi Immediate Past Chair
Aaron Dettling, Fortif Law Partners, Legal Advisor
Greg Knighton, City of Hoover, Liaison
Presidents Circle Tyler Williams, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Alan Lincoln, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. Brandi Ashley, Go Green Lawn Paul Dangel, Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel Van Moody, Kale Me Crazy Christy Moore, Kilwins Henry King, King Acura Stephen Gathings, OFCworkscapes, Inc. Bill Powell, Powell Consulting Group
Tyler Lipe, Regions Bank Downtown Brian Ethridge, River Bank & Trust Charlie Conkin, Sentry Heating, Air & Plumbing Bill Inabet, Synovus Bankformerly First Commercial Bank of Highway 150 Stephen Walsh - Weinberg, Wheeler, Hudgins, Gunn & Dial Brandon Wilson - Wilbron, Inc. Joel Smith - Hendrick, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram/Chevrolet
Past Presidents & Board Chairs Thank you for your service.
Derrick M. Murphy, Hoover City Council, Liaison
Vivian Mora, State Farm Insurance The Vivian Mora Agency, Director
James Robinson, Ret. Executive, Director
Kim Starling, Ascension St. Vincent’s, Director
Reggie Torbor, Pylon Building Group, Director
Tyler Williams, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Director
Shannon Driver, Gagliano Mortgage, Director
Tyler Lipe, Regions Bank, Director
Doug Ayers PhD, MBA, UAB Collat School of Business, Director
Keith Barfield, BMSS Advisors & CPAs, LLC, Director
205 - 988 - 5672
A.W. Bolt Bill Stoeffhaas Burr Weatherly Chris Schmidt Dan Ellis Dan Mikos Gene Bromberg Greg Meineke Jason Cobb Jerome Morgan Jerry Cross Jerry Johnson Joe Thomas Kathleen Spencer Lori Moler Lynn Thomas Richard Head Richard Rayborn Robert Linthout Susan Webb Terri Williams Terry Turner Paul Dangel David A. Custred
WWW.HOOVERCHAMBER.ORG HooversMagazine.com 89
OUT & ABOUT
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THE JAGS VS. THE BUCS
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PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER
On Friday, Sept. 8 at Jaguar Stadium, the Bucs defeated the Jags 28-20. 1.
Alexandria
2.
Amori and Angelique
3.
Blake Jr. and Blake III
4.
Collins and Melissa
5.
Derek, Mary, Yanis, Derek and Niyah
6.
Gail and Rickey Justice
7.
Jaggy
8.
Gwen and Stacie Jackson
9.
Haleigh Strickler with Sidney and Becky Patterson
10. Karen and Brian Dillard 11. Makayla and Angela
7
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HEAD OVER TEAL 5K/10K
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PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER
On Saturday, Sept. 23 at The Preserve, the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation hosted its 14th annual Head over Teal 5K/10K races, featuring an after-party for the event’s attendees. Proceeds benefited the nonprofit’s efforts to raise money and awareness for GYN cancer research. 1.
The Pelt family
2.
Dora Cox and Sharon Hogg
3.
Gracee Mewer, Sarah Dunlap and JB Cook
4.
Crawford McGuffee and Landon Dickson
5.
Maddie Milstead and Ham
6.
Ashley Przybysz, Michelle Christine and Shannon Ellis
7.
The Bradley family
8.
William and Larry Ingram
9.
Erin and Austin Turner with Ava Pair
10. Tillie Jacob and Juliet Lacranza
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THE BUCS VS. THE SPARTANS PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER
On Friday, Sept. 29 at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium, the Spartans defeated the Bucs 34-24. 1.
Brooke Dotson and Ziyaan Lakhani
2.
McKenzie Blackledge and Micah Hampton
3.
Helen Massey, Caroline Lundeen and Cyndi McCaslin
4.
Harleigh Pierce and Maiya Smith
5.
Laci, Destiney and Avery
6.
Graci and Bailey
7.
Elyssa and Arieonna
8.
Millie, Kristyna and Bailey
9.
Emma Jones and Emily Blakemore
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10. Claire, Maggie, Linley and Addison 11. Olivia Knight and Kylie Pate 12. Heather, Eli and Micah Pitts 13. Leslie and London
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TASTE OF HOOVER PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
On Thursday, Oct. 5, Aldridge Gardens hosted the 2023 Taste of Hoover event. 1.
Courtney Ray and Jessica Grannan
2.
Holly Barton and Leah Miller
3.
Gracie Gehle and Bonnie Smith
4.
Brendan Young
5.
Kimberly Clay, Shannon Black and Jake Evesque
6.
Nic Gadson and Justin Breedlove
7.
Kristal Bryant
8.
Brian and Susan Toth
9.
Heather Jones, Eddie Smith and Kim Adams
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OUT & ABOUT
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BLUFF PARK ART SHOW
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PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
On Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Bluff Park Community Park, the Bluff Park Art Association held its 60th annual art show.
1.
Bill, Will and Paulette Pearson with Larry Allen and Bama Hager
2.
Essie Ebrahimi
3.
Mayor Frank Brocato, Debra Riffe, Clare Huddleston, Essie Ebrahimi, David Byland, Scott McQueen, Matthew Allen and September Reed
4.
Susan Groves and Robin Rodgers
5.
Beth Overstreet
6.
Claire Cormany
7.
Jacob and Jeanne Breedlove
8.
Steven Reid and Robin Gerstenber
9.
Mary Catherine Nance and Hardy Moore
10. Claire McPhearson, Alison Rocco and Jackson Perry 11. Allison Dailey 12. Dave Marks and Stan Copeland 13. Natalie Zoghby
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HAY HOOVER PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
The city of Hoover held the second annual Hay Hoover event at Veterans Park on Saturday, Oct. 14. 1.
Sarah and Magali Serrano
2.
Brooklyn Richardson and Jeniyah Johnson
3.
The Hatchett family
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Marketplace Hoover's Magazine • 205.669.3131
HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT TODAY! (for 3,5, 0r 10 months) Make a lifelong friend from abroad. Enrich your family with another culture. Select an exchange student from over 70 different countries. All families are welcome to apply. CALL PAMELA AT (205)577-9323 host.asse.com or email info@ asse.com
Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)444-9774. Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007 NOW HIRING!!! BEST WESTERN PELHAM • FRONT DESK• HOUSEKEEPERS• HANDYMAN “RETIREES ARE WELCOME” CALL OR TEXT 205.908.1305 BIRMINGHAM WATERWORKS CONTACT US AT (205)244-4000 BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE•TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN!•SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS!•STUMP GRINDING!•GENERAL LIABILITY•WORKERS COMP WWW.BRIANSTREE.COM 205281-2427 Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbamawellness.org Dogwood Plumbing LLC – Master Plumber, Master Gasfitter. Licensed & Insured. Senior Discounts. Plumbing • Drain • Gas 205-864-2369 dogwoodplumbingllc@gmail. com SENIOR L2/L3 AUTOMATION SPECIALIST Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsbl for anlzng
user needs & sftwr reqs. to dtrmne fsibilty of dsgn w/ in time & cost constraints, dscssng & evltng potential situations that can arise insde the plant & correlating them w/fnctnlts of the MES or flat prdct cntrl app. to produce fnctnl reqs. for each prjct, obtnng & evltng info on factors such as rprting frmts req., costs, or secrity needs to dtrmne hrdwr cnfgrtn. HS diploma w/3 yrs of prior work exp. in the pos. off. or rel. dvlpng, tstng & comsng Lvl 2 Automation Systms & Lvl 3 MES Syst. Send resumes to r.woods@danieli.com Property Real Estate Manager (live out). Sought by commercial real estate company. Worksite: Birmingham, AL. 36 months exp. req. in same job or, Private Household Management or, any other closely related. Supervise other service workers $28.82 per. hour. 40 hrs. weekly. No walk in’s. Mail resume with cover letter to: The Founder. The Hazelrig Companies. 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite # 315, Birmingham, AL 34243. AUTOMATION L1 PLC DEVELOPER Danieli Taranis (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsble for dvlpng sftwr prjct for autmtn sys.; intnl tstng of sftwr app on autmtn sys; drawing up ad prep. of oprtr manuals; field check, assurance that all field elctrcl eqpmnt is cnctd to autmtn sys; motor mvments accrdng to data sheet; mach. automatic mvmnts according to cycle diagram; monitor plant prdctvt. Bachelor’s in Cmptr Scnce or IT w/5 yrs of progress resp. prior wrk exp in the pstn offrd. or reltd. Mst knw (thru acad training or wrk exp) dvlpng MES autmtn sftwre using DELPHI XE2 & SQL ORACLE PL/SQL for bcknd dvlpmnt; dvlpng autmtn sftwre for steel indstry; SQL dtbse, Vsl Stdio Cde, Delphi 2005, Orcle dtbse, incl. Orcle ADF, Orcle SOA, & Orcle BPM. Resumes to r.woods@danieli. com. Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office
MARKETPLACE
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Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Production Supervisor $50,000.00-$70,000.00/ year 10hr shifts Mon-Thurs Oversees production operations. Sets objectives, organizes workflow, prepares schedules, assigns responsibilities, trains employees, ensures safety, schedules maintenance, submits performance reports. Skills:-Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/match, Health/ Dental/Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING 2nd Shift Supervisor $50,000.00-$70,000.00 2nd shift 2:30p.m.1:00a.m. Monday–Thursday Responsibilities: •Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment •Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments •Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Maintenance Technicians: Friday–Sunday 12 hour shifts 6:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader. Starting pay $19-$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044 Quantum Logistics Hiring Class A Driver. Montgomery, AL. Full or part time. $.48-$.55
per mile. Paid weekly. BCBS Insurance. Home weekend EZ Pass and prepass. Safety & Fuel Bonus. Apply online www.qtmlog.com Call (334)2888106.
H.H Handyman & Hardscape 205-720-7241 We Specialize In Kitchen, Decks, Bathrooms, Remodeling, Interior, Exterior Home Repairs and More! CALL US TODAY!
Take your anxiety out of baking Fall pies – You CAN bake them Yourself!! Join me on September 24th and learn to make a buttery, flaky delicious crust and fill it with local Apples just in time for the Holidays!! Classes are held at Party Art Studio in Pelham and are totally hands on. September 24, 2023 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Sign up on my Facebook page @Siggi’sTable or Email siggistable@gmail.com See You Soon!!
Experienced Termite Technician or someone experienced in route-service work and wants to learn new profession. Work-vehicle/ equipment provided. Must drive straight-shift, have clean driving record/be 21/pass background/drug test. Training provided. Insurance/401K offered. M-F 7:00-4:30 + 1 Saturday/month. Pay $13hr. Send resume to facsmith@ charter.net
Nursing Assistant to help care for an elderly gentleman in Jemison requiring total assistance. PT-FT. To apply, call Ms. Peoples (205)688-1992 or (205)447-3005 Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653 Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started! Now Hiring For Utility Positions Starting pay $15.14/ hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com Hiring Experienced Driver Must have Class A CDL, Hazmat, tanker exp. Local deliveries, so you will be home every night. We have new equipment, FT/PT positions available with excellent hourly pay. Offering health/dental insurance, paid vacations. Send resumes to: mark@ allenoil.com Call 256-404-4143 or come by the Allen’s office at: 1251 Old Bham Hwy in Sylacauga NOW HIRING SERVICE TECHNICIANS •5 yr minimum experience required. •BCBS Insurance. •$25-$35 per hour (based on experience) + commission. Carden Heating & Cooling. 205-669-2459
WE ARE HRIING Lawn & Ornamental Service Technician Benefits Include: 401K, BCBS Medical & Dental Insurance, PTO + Holiday Pay Heritage Tree and Lawn Care is seeking passionate technicians to make an impact in the industry. APPLY NOW 205-995-3331 #TechCareer #HiringNow By Heritage Lawn & Tree Care Facebook Apply Today 205-995-3331 Darrel@heritageltc.com More information: heritageltc.com Canopy Park Apartments NOW LEASING! Call us for Specials! 205-813-5568 2100 Canopy Trail Pelham, AL 35124 www.canopyparkapartments. com Canterbury Realty Group 4000 Eagle Point Corp. Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 Acquisition, Divorcing, or Estate Settlement? Real Estate is at its core. From 6K-4M Let my experience work for you! John M. Antonio Associate Broker 205-706-6858 antonioproperties@gmail.com Take your anxiety out of baking Fall pies – You CAN bake them Yourself!! Join me on October 22nd and learn to make a buttery, flaky delicious crust and fill it with local Apples just in time for the Holidays!! Classes are held at Party Art Studio in Pelham and are totally hands on. October 22, 2023 2:00 pm-4:00 pm Sign up on my Facebook page @Siggi’sTable or Email teresa@siggistable. com See You Soon!!
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MY HOOVER SASH PIKE
Owner of Aphros Beauty
Diverse Community
Lake Cyrus I love Hoover as there is so much diversity in our community. As a community member of Lake Cyrus, we wouldn’t want to live anywhere else! We have various events that keep us growing stronger. Pictured is me and Mayor Brocato when I won third place in a Hoover chili cookoff contest.
Eat Local
Santos Coffee There are so many wonderful places to eat in Hoover. A few of my family's favorites are the Lamb Korma with some garlic nan from Bawarchi, or the traditional wings with spicy or mild sauce at Beef O Brady’s. Pictured is my family outside of Santos Coffee, where I enjoy getting the signature caramel latte. Hoover’s food options are limitless!
Get Outdoors
Golfing at RTJ I love to walk the small outdoor trail at Ross Bridge, sit on one of the park benches and watch the stream flow. I always find that nature parks, trails and small streams bring me back with nature and life itself. I also enjoy playing golf on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail with my friends to recharge for the week. Nature allows me to get my thoughts reset and flowing again.
Boosting Lost Self-Confidence
Aphros Beauty At Aphros Beauty, we specialize in Permanent Makeup and other beauty services. We want every client to feel their best, boosting their self-confidence and giving them a part of their lives back. Whether it is a simple brow shape up or a PMU Ombré Brow, you will enjoy warm blankets, brow massage, aromatherapy essence, hot tea or a cold beverage. You become family.
Team Spirit
The Hoover Met Our family loves the Hoover Met Complex! We are so grateful Hoover has built a beautiful, multi-purpose complex that has allowed us to see our son compete in his first basketball tournament here. It’s our favorite place to now go see the Hoover games on Friday evenings.
104 Winter 2023
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Purchase and installation of new air quality accessory required. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Some restrictions apply. Expires 01/15/24 - SCM2311
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