Hoovers Magazine June 2016

Canine Cops Furry oďŹƒcers benefit Hoover PD

Gaining Strength Gym owner overcomes his past struggles June 2016 Hooversmagazine.com $4.95

Locally Made Boutique features Alabama artists

Personal Touch

Monogram Spot creates custom pieces

Tastes of the South Moe’s BBQ serves fresh meats and sides

Enjoy the luxe life Social Membership includes access to swim, tennis, fitness, and dining for only $300 a month.

For Membership Information, contact Ashley Fuentes afuentes@greystonecc.com 205.986.5146

LIVE MUSIC • FOOD VENDORS • KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS • HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES ROCK CLIMBING WALL • INFLATABLE OBSTACLE COURSE Featuring

Act of Congress 7191 caHaba vaLley roaD biRminghAm, al 35242 205-408-6600

onEnineteEn.coM

Cop’s Best Friend They might not be able to read criminals their rights or cuff them, but furry officers like the one on the cover bring a unique skillset to the Hoover Police Department.

It’s no secret I’m a huge dog lover, so I’ll admit I’m a bit envious of someone who has a job that includes working with his four-legged friend.

And that’s exactly what the K9 unit officers get to do.

I talked with two different officers for the article, and it was clear they were passionate about their jobs and canine partners. Officer William Warner and his dog, Jax (featured on the cover), have a strong bond that rivals any humans.

Beyond sniffing out drugs and explosives, Hoover’s police dogs also help make the job safer for their handlers and other officers by investigating potentially dangerous situations.

It really was amazing for me to see what all these dogs can do, considering I’m doing good if I can get my two pups to come inside when I call. Read more about these officers and their handlers on page 24.

June Issue Copyright 2016 Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Questions or comments?

Call 669-3131 or email info@hooversmagazine.com

Another impressive story actually comes from someone who has been on the other side of the law. But, it’s how Brad Bearden, owner of Elite Fitness & Body, turned his life around that caught my eye.

Featured on page 18, Brad used his rough past to drive him to make something of his life.

He now motivates others to help them have healthier and more fulfilling lives. His story truly shows what faith and hard work can do.

There are several other must-read stories in this issue, including ones on Lily Magnolia, Moe’s Original BBQ, Monogram Spot and the Aubie 5K and Fun Run. And with summer break finally here, there are plenty of activities for the entire family. Flip over to the calendar to see what all is going on in Hoover this month.

Have a person or event you think we should feature? I’d love to hear

from you, so send me an email or reach out on social media!n

Lauren Dowdle lauren.dowdle@hooversmagazine.com Twitter: @HooversMag Facebook.com/HooversMagazine Instagram: HooversMag

EDITORIAL

ADMINISTRATIVE

DESIGN

MARKETING

Graham Brooks

Tim Prince

Connor Bucy

Ashley Duckett

Molly Davidson

Katie McDowell

Jamie Dawkins

Kari George

Lauren Dowdle

Mary Jo Eskridge

Layken Gibbs

Daniel Holmes

Baker Ellis

Kristy Brown

Keith McCoy

Kim McCulla

Jessa Pease

Christy Coleman

Clarke Stackhouse

Rhett McCreight

Emily Sparacino

Hailey Dolbare

Meagan Barton

Neal Wagner

Stacey Meadows

April Spivey

Cover Photo By Dawn Harrison Hoover’s Magazine is published monthly 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 $20.41 for one year by emailing subscribe@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.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

FEATURES 8

Handmade Haven Lily Magnolia brings local artwork to the Galleria

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Canine Cops Hoover Police dogs help fight local crime

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Personal Style Monogram Spot makes clothes, accessories and more unique June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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inside

26

8

18

32

44 ARTS & CULTURE 8 Handmade Haven

Lily Magnolia brings local artwork to the Galleria

RECREATION 16 Tiger Pride

5K and Fun Run raise money for Auburn scholarships

HEALTH & BEAUTY 18 Desire to Thrive

Fitness facility owner gains strength from his tough past

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Block Party One Nineteen celebrates Urgent Care opening Tracking Fitness Rocky Ridge students put health into action

FEATURES 26 Canine Cops

Hoover Police dogs help fight local crime

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

50 FASHION 32 Personal Style

Monogram Spot makes clothes, accessories and more unique

EDUCATION 40 Snippets

What’s going on in Hoover education and beyond

AT HOME 44 Dog House

Couple and fourlegged companions enjoy calling Hoover home

FOOD & DRINK 50 Tastes of the South Moe’s serves smoked meats and homemade sides

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Editor’s Note 13

The Book Nook

14

Aldridge Gardens newsletter

55

Hoover Area Chamber Connection

62

Spotted

77

Calendar

79

Classifieds

82

Why I Love Hoover

Sports Medicine

Michael F. Blum, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon

Spine Center

Ekkehard Bonatz, M.D. Hand Surgeon

Michael T. Ellerbusch, M.D. Sports Medicine

George Robert Booker, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon

William S. Craig, M.D. Spine Non-Surgical

John Kirchner, M.D. Foot / Ankle Surgeon

William D. Sudduth, M.D. General Orthopaedist

William D. Krauss, D.O. Foot / Ankle Surgeon

C.J. Talbert, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon Spine & Neck

Testing, Surgery & Rehabilitation all conveniently located in your neighborhood.

“Less pain. More living.”

Sports Injuries | Work Injuries | Fractures | Musculoskeletal Conditions Hand Injuries | Foot and Ankle | Joint Replacements and Reconstruction

On-site MRI 4517 Southlake Parkway • Hoover, Alabama 35244

To schedule an appointment, call 205-985-4111 www.SouthlakeOrthopaedics.com

arts & culture

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Handmade Haven Lily Magnolia brings local artwork to the Galleria

WRITTEN BY AMY JONES PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON

T

he women who run Lily Magnolia, a boutique at the Riverchase Galleria that sells handmade art and gifts, have simple criteria when it comes to their artists.

“We love supporting local artists,” says coowner Julie Hand. “We have no artists who live outside of Alabama, and we’re not going to have any.”

The art showcased starts with Julie and

her four co-owners, Kayla Burris, Claire Hand, Anna Church and Kristie Thornton.

Julie, who makes sugar scrubs, pillows, crocheted art, jewelry and paintings, says the five women make 30 to 40 percent of the products offered at Lily Magnolia. They work with more than 20 other artists to supply the rest of their merchandise.

While the co-owners all supply different things, together they make up a formidable team, Julie says.

“Some of us put money in the store, some of us put sweat equity, and to me that’s equal.

PAGE 8: Lily Magnolia customers enjoy a relaxed shopping atmosphere.

ABOVE LEFT: There are several Alabama-inspired pieces like ornaments.

ABOVE RIGHT: Julie Hand uses her personal story involving pennies to share her faith.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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We’re all a team, but we all have our own gifts,” she says. “We have one silent partner, and that’s God.” Lily Magnolia opened in August 2015 after a fast flurry of activity. The five co-owners actually all worked in another store at the Galleria, and a mall manager approached them about opening their own store to showcase their work. Within weeks, they were looking at available spaces in the mall.

Julie says there had already been discussion about opening a business together, but the mall manager’s comments gave them the courage to go for it.

“We had kind of been talking about it. You want to be in control of your own life,” she says. “I wanted it for 20 years: I just didn’t have the courage to do it.”

The former Brighton location at the Galleria was available, and the co-owners went to look at the space in June. Julie knew it was the right place immediately — looking down at the ground, she saw a sign from above.

“They had taken everything out, and the only thing left behind was a penny. That’s how God speaks to me, is through pennies. I knew this was our space,” she says.

Julie’s connection with pennies began years ago while going through a divorce. As a stay-at-home mom, she was outside doing yard work and fretting over how she would make ends meet. While cleaning up outside, she kept finding pennies and wondered where they were coming from. Suddenly, she heard a voice tell her not to worry, because if God could line the streets of Heaven with gold, he could provide for her and her family.

Ever since then, Julie has found pennies while going through her hardest times — when her son battled cancer, when her daughter was in a bad car accident — and she’s felt God’s comfort.

Now, she uses pennies at Lily Magnolia to share her faith. The checkout counter is covered with loose pennies. Sometimes customers who need blessings will take a penny, and customers who want to give blessings leave them.

“It gives people a chance to say, ‘What’s up with these pennies?’ It’s a way to share my testimony, because without God, I am nothing,” Julie says.

After finding the space, it was a mad dash to get it ready and get merchandise in to open in August. Now, months later, the shop owners have found their groove and loyal customers have found their shop.

Lily Magnolia offers a diverse set of handworks, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The co-owners bring their own pieces to the store. There are plenty of home decor items at Lily Magnolia. Co-owner Julie Hand makes sugar scrubs, pillows, crocheted art, jewelry and paintings for the store. The store offers local items like candles, pillows, towels, decor items and much more. The necklaces have Alabama themes. Lily Magnolia opened in August 2015 and only sells pieces from Alabama artists.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

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The store has plenty of Birmingham-themed items.

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including but not limited to paintings, jewelry, candles, goat milk soap, coconut oilbased sugar scrubs, pottery, shirts, hot sauce, coffee creamers, wood art and furniture. And that was just on one particular day — the inventory could be completely different on any given day based on what their artists have provided.

“Invariably, if a customer comes in and sees something and says, ‘Oh, I love it, let me think about it,’ when they come back — sometimes hours later — it’s gone,” Julie says.

Jordan Cowie, who paints and sells wood art under the business name Wood Ya Look At That, provides wood art for Lily Magnolia to sell. Cowie says she knew she wanted to work with the ladies at Lily Magnolia as soon as she met them. In fact, Lily Magnolia was the first store Cowie trusted to sell her artwork.

“At first, this was the only place I sold my work, other than Etsy and local craft shows.

Now, I have grown and sell in a few other places around Alabama,” she says. “I try to have different pieces in each store so that it is special to that store. Lily Magnolia has a Southern flair to it, so I try to fill it with Southern items that are special to sweet home Alabama.”

Cowie says she’s glad to see the store’s laser focus on keeping it local.

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

“I love that Lily Magnolia focuses on local artists only. I am so glad to see so many businesses catching on to locally made items,” she says. “This store is not like any other in the Galleria. It’s so special to me and other local artists.”

Julie says that local focus has become a mission.

“I really want to educate people on how much better a product is when it’s handmade,” she says. “People see an item and see a price. They don’t think about the years the artist put in to learn that craft. If you buy handmade, you will pay a little more, but you’re paying for the time, for the materials, for the love the artist put into that piece.”

In the end, Lily Magnolia is a dream come true — both for the artists who sell there and the women who run it.

“It’s really the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. I’m in control of where my life goes, basically,” Julie says. “We are a team, we are a family, we are doing what we love to do. And I hope we’re around a long time.”

Lily Magnolia’s website, Lilymagnoliaboutiqueal.com, just launched and offers some products for sale online.

Customers can also call or email the store to have items shipped to them, if wanted.

For more information on Lily Magnolia, visit the website, call 518-5006 or email lilymagnoliaboutique@gmail.com. n

the book nook

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If you’re a fan of the Hoover Library, then you know each year when the weather warms up we love to kick it up a notch and give the season extra sizzle with Summer Reading.

This year’s adult theme is “Exercise Your Mind. Read!”

On Saturday, May 21, as part of our Summer Reading Kickoff, the Friends of the Library hosted Deni Owens our very first race: the Book It! Nonfiction Department 5K for the Hoover Library. Held Hoover Public Library at Veterans Park in Hoover, this digitally timed race featured Hoover High’s Coach Devon Hind as master of ceremonies and was followed by games and inflatables for the kids and the BMX Trickstars.

Of course, Adult Summer Reading always means books: For every five books you read between May 21 and July 31, you get a chance to win great prizes donated by the Friends of the Library, including gift cards for movies, gas, FitBit and local restaurants.

A new weekly event, the Wednesday Walk & Talk, will give you a good start on your step goal for the day. Meet with librarians at the front of the library at 8:30 a.m. each Wednesday from May 21 to July 31 for a stroll around Howard Lake.

If you love watching obstacle-course reality shows, get ready because Alabama’s Ninja Warriors will be visiting us on July 16 at 2 p.m.

Other events include: June 6: Heels and Wheels — Learn how to start walking, running or biking for fitness at 6:30 p.m.

June 13: Oscar-winning football documentary screening in the Library Theatre at 2 and 6:30 p.m.

June 16: Move It or Lose It — The Benefits of Exercise for Both Body and Brain with Dr. Marcus Bamman, director of UAB Exercise Medicine, at 6:30 p.m.

June 20: Golf for Everyone — Are you interested in learning to play, but not sure where to start? It’s at 7 p.m.

July 11: Documentary screening on the U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey team in the Library Theatre at 2 and 6:30 p.m. n

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Summer Reading Workout

Deni Owens is a librarian in the nonfiction department at the Hoover Public Library. Visit Hooverlibrary.org for more information.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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Hypertufa Workshop Saturday June 25, 8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

(Rain date July 16) Instructor: Harold Deason, Jefferson County Master Gardener $46 Members/ $55 Non-Members (includes all materials) Limited to 12 participants Fashioned after the old stone watering troughs of England, these containers can stand the freezethaw cycle of most climates. Join us for a hands-on workshop to make your own hypertufa out of cement, perlite and peat moss. We also will discuss planting options. Make your hypertufa on June 25. Let it cure for a week, and pick up the following weekend. Register online at aldridgegardens.com.

Members-Only Bird Walk

Saturday June 18, 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Members are invited to join Dr. Richard and Patricia Ryel on monthly bird walks to view the many species of birds in the Gardens.

June is a busy month at Aldridge Gardens. Come in, away from the nearby commercial bustle, and you will hear the sounds of happy children this month as they participate in our Summer Camps program. You might see a family enjoying a birthday celebration, or a bridal party preparing for their important day. A group may be going through their stretches in a yoga class, while other people walk around the lake. Some folks may be watching birds and other critters. If you are a serious gardener or if you just want to enjoy a nice day amidst beautiful scenery, whoever you are, whatever your interests or stage of life, there is something for you here at Aldridge Gardens!

HOLD YOUR EVENT AT ALDRIDGE GARDENS Is a special social or business affair in your future? Let our professional event coordinators at Aldridge Gardens help make your day perfect. We have a variety of venues, and we will provide you with all the information and inspiration you need to host the perfect party, conference or meeting. For information, contact Amanda Baker, Director of Sales & Catering (205) 682-8019 ext. 103 or abaker@ aldridgegardens.com.

3530 Lorna Road | Hoover, Alabama 35216 • 205-682-8019 • www.aldridgegardens.com • info@aldridgegardens.com

Free admission! Aldridge Gardens is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. From 4:30 to 7:00 p.m., members are invited to fish our lake Mondays through Thursdays and to walk their leashed dogs on Mondays and Wednesdays. Not a member?

Join today so you can take advantage of these and many other benefits Aldridge Gardens offers. Go to aldridgegardens.com for more information and to join.

In the Gallery: Artist Maurice Cook

Meet the Artist Reception: Monday June 13, 6 - 7 p.m.

Propagators’ private reception with the artist 5 - 6 p.m.

Maurice Cook’s playful folk art paintings will be displayed inside the gallery through the months of June and July. His boldly colored paintings tell stories of simpler times and rural life in Alabama. Also be sure to see our display of unique Frank Fleming bronze sculptures inside the gallery. The Eddie and Kay Aldridge Art and Historical Collections Museum is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except when a special event is taking place inside the house.

Native Azaleas by an Alabama Native

Wednesday June 22, 1:00 p.m.

Visitors are welcome to attend this free program sponsored by the Alabama Hydrangea Society. David Doggett will review the history of hybridizing azaleas.

He will use beautiful photos to show superior deciduous azaleas developed by Dr. Eugene Aromi to stand up to Alabama’s heat and humidity.

HYDRANGEAS UNDER THE STARS Hydrangeas Under the Stars is this month! Join us for this special evening on Saturday June 11, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. (Rain date June 12). For information visit aldridgegardens.com.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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recreation

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Tiger Pride

5K and Fun Run raise money for Auburn scholarships

WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

through the Auburn University Office of Scholarships.

But there’s more to this race than just eople may mistake Hoover’s running: It’s truly a family event. In addition Veterans Park this June for to the 5K and 1-mile run, there will also be Toomer’s Corner on game day a children’s area with inflatables, balloons, because of a race supporting refreshments, door prizes and other activities. a local teacher’s memory and Auburn Plus, Aubie will be there to greet everyone scholarships. and take photos.

The Greater Birmingham Auburn Club “What’s so unique — since it’s not as big Aubie 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run will be June as other events — is that you get a lot of 25 at Veterans Park in Hoover, says Michael time with Aubie and to interact with him,” Lovett, a co-chair of the event. The 5K starts Lovett says. “Aubie will give you a high five at 8 a.m., and the 1-Mile Fun Run begins at as you cross the finish line.”

9 a.m.

“Especially if you’re an Auburn fan, There were about 100 people at the event come out and support the University and last year, Lovett says, and they are hoping scholarship programs,” Lovett says. to double that number this year. Beyond But, he mentions the event is open to enjoying some fun outdoor activities, race everyone, whether participants are also supporting a good cause. they bleed orange The second annual event is in memory and blue or crimson of Meredith LeAnn Maddox, with part of and white. the money raised from the race going to “It’s a great 5K a scholarship in her name. Maddox was a track at Spain Park track coach at Hoover High School who and Veterans Park, passed away last year and impacted people and it gives you a throughout the community. way to enjoy being — Michael Lovett “Her mother and father [Pam and Elon outside,” he says.

Maddox] are long-standing board members Awards will be given for the first place and participants in the Greater Birmingham overall, along with the first place male and Auburn Club,” Lovett says. female runners by age categories. Everyone So, the race seemed like the perfect who preregisters for the event will receive a opportunity to honor Maddox. In addition T-shirt, and shirts will be available the day of to supporting Maddox’s scholarship, the the race on a first-come basis. proceeds from the race will go to support the For runners who mail a payment for the Greater Birmingham Auburn Club’s seven 5K by June 19, it will cost $35. From June other academic scholarship endowments, as 20 to the day of the race, the 5K will be $40. well.

The Fun Run is $20 during preregistration “Greater Birmingham Auburn Club and the day of the race, and children 12 years spreads Auburn spirit and raises money to old and younger are $10. Payments can be fund scholarships like this one,” Lovett says. mailed to P.O. Box 660526 Birmingham, AL “All of the events help fund eight different 35255. scholarships for Jefferson and Shelby County The event will be at Veterans Park, students.”

4800 Valleydale Road in Hoover. For more LEFT: Aubie will be at the Local students who want to attend information about the club, race or becoming race to meet and take Auburn can apply for the scholarships a sponsor, visit Thegbac.org. n photos with everyone.

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“Aubie will give you

a high five as you cross the finish line.”

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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health & beauty

Desire to Thrive Fitness facility owner gains strength from his tough past

WRITTEN BY SAMANTHA HURST PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON

Hoover.

There, his own missteps in life motivate him to ensure his clients achieve results others rad Bearden could have quit a cannot reach. long time ago.

Client Matt Wilson said when he met His life had accumulated so Bearden, he could tell he was passionate about much grime; so much filth from what he was doing. an abusive father, from teenage years filled with “It’s more than just accountability,” Wilson alcoholism and from a handful of years spent says. “Everybody who is on staff at Elite in Florida and Alabama prisons, that where he genuinely cares about you achieving what you is now seems shocking. want to achieve.”

“I had nothing. I had to find a way to succeed,” Bearden says. “I’m telling you, I had WHERE HE WAS BEFORE no other choice.”

Now, Bearden owns Elite Fitness & Body in Bearden is eager to help his clients

B

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

transform their lives because he’s had to transform his.

At merely 5 years old, Bearden says he watched helplessly as his biological father threatened to kill his mother. At 12, Bearden’s stepfather and role model died in a car wreck.

“It devastated me — it was a heck of a thing to swallow, especially for a little kid,” Bearden says of Stephen Bearden’s death.

It wasn’t long after that Bearden said he started drinking; partying so much that he considers himself to have been an alcoholic by 18. Though Bearden thrived as a high school athlete, he says he lost all scholarship offers because of his behavior. “I could put on a good face, I really could,” Bearden says. “Truth of the matter is, I was just as lost as I could be.”

Then a string of incidents led Bearden to a place he never imagined he’d be — a prison in Florida.

After losing his scholarships, Bearden joined the Marine Corps as an effort to save face.

Bearden then found himself at a party prior to his deployment to Iraq. When the alcohol ran out, Bearden walked inside a grocery store off Highway 280 and robbed a cashier.

Speeding out of the store, Bearden attempted to escape on foot, but police caught and arrested him.

This dark road Bearden kept following proved long.

On bail, Bearden chose to take a road trip to Pensacola with two other guys he met in the Shelby County jail. They all got into a fight, and Bearden found himself arrested again in Florida.

When Bearden went to that first hearing, he tried to own up to his mistakes. He said, “Look, yes I’m guilty. Send me to prison because I need to reset my life.”

The judge sentenced him to 22 months in a maximum security Florida prison.

HOW HE GOT HERE Bearden says prison is nothing like people imagine it to be or what they see on TV. It’s harder.

“It was just a place where you really have to

determine who you are going to be and what you stand for,” Bearden recalls.

When Bearden completed his sentence in Florida, he thought he’d be free. He was wrong. Shelby County officers were waiting on him as he exited and brought him back to Alabama to continue serving time here.

Bearden says he knew what he had to do. He knew he needed not only to show the judge a changed man but he had to be a changed man. When he got to the county jail, a handful of men would gather every night and pray. Bearden says at first, he didn’t want any part of it.

One night, he did finally pick up a Bible and really dug into it.

He says eventually he began seeing immense favor in his life.

After his crimes and indiscretions inside prison, Bearden should not have been eligible for any work release programs. Yet, all the

same, he became one of the first to enter a new prison rehabilitation program in Columbiana. When you finished the program successfully, you were able to either go home or go on work release.

About four-and-ahalf years after entering prison, Bearden was released. He was released to nothing except for a passion to become a personal trainer. With so much time on his hands in prison, he studied every book on nutrition and physical fitness he could grab.

He worked out regularly, and through much trial and error, found ideas that really worked.

PAGE 18: The workouts incorporate different equipment like medicine balls. LEFT: Balancing exercises helps strengthen the core.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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As he struggled to find work as an exconvict, Bearden says he made an oath to himself to not lie about his past. After two months, he found a job as a personal trainer, and the question never even came up.

At first, he made almost nothing even as he worked 60 hours a week.

Bearden says when you are as hungry as he was in life, you do whatever it takes to be successful.

“I’m sitting here with no more than a high school education, a heck of a lot of Jesus and a lot of motivation,” Bearden says. “You put a pit bull on a chain with a plate full of steaks in front of him, what’s going to happen?”

Bearden eventually moved to open his own training business. Again, the road was tough.

Eventually, a real estate developer called him and offered him a space rent free for three months. The man even told Bearden that if things didn’t work out, he’d let him out of the five-year contract.

Bearden says he knew though that he couldn’t just create a place for people to work out.

“The only opportunity I had to get our

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

name out there was to blow people away with results,” Bearden says. “If I was going to feed my children, I had to get results for my clients.”

GETTING RESULTS Elite’s clients are seeking a life change that they don’t know how to obtain on their own.

“I believe most programs fail as a whole because of this one single misstep — a participant believes if they do this specific program, they will get this particular result,” Bearden says.

Bearden doesn’t believe in trying to fit any of his clients into a pre-made program.

Head trainer Sean Thompson says Elite trainers talk to clients and really nail down why they are trying to change.

“You would never really commit to something without having a purpose behind it,” Thompson says. “We have to find that purpose to encourage them on their rough days.”

New clients enter Elite and are handed a large binder full of questionnaires. These

questionnaires make every effort to collect minute details of a person’s daily life and habits.

How many hours do you sleep each night?

When and where do you go out with friends?

What is your work schedule like?

These questions help trainers identify the things that hinder clients from success. Then, Elite creates a program that fits the client’s lifestyle.

Perhaps that means you can escape for a workout during lunch. For some clients, it means a nutritionist will suggest three healthy meals for a dinner out.

“Instead of asking that individual to revolve their entire life around this program, we methodically build the program around their

life,” Bearden says. “No. 1, it takes away all of their excuses, and No. 2, it builds a program they can do for the next 20 years of their lives.”

This all translates into 30-day goals.

Thompson says when clients have more obtainable goals, the short-term successes push them to do more each week. He said seeing his clients do things they never thought they’d be able to do is one of his greatest rewards.

“I’m helping people change their lives. I’m not changing them but being a catalyst to it,” Thompson says. “It spills over into every other part of their life — they do their job better; they are more confident, and they improve their relationships because they feel better about themselves.”

Wilson went in thinking he just wanted to

Brad Bearden uses the struggles from his past to motivate him as the owner of Elite Fitness & Body.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The fitness facility offers small group training, one-on-one training and a nutrition program. The instructors create plans unique to each client.

Bearden incorporates his faith throughout his business.

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be thinner.

He said since joining three years ago, his participation has morphed into something more. His entire mental perception on exercise has changed.

“Often times, I design my schedule around fitting in the time to work out,” Wilson says.

“Having dealt with my weight for most of my life, there is always this little fear that I’ll go back to the way I was before. You couple that with the positive environment of Elite, and you want to be there.”

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

The same fear of going backward pushes Bearden further in his business and life too.

“It’s been an amazing journey,” Bearden says.

“We’ve had so many opportunities to help so many people. God has just blessed it.”

Elite Fitness plans to expand to a second location in the SOHO area of Homewood this year. Bearden is also working on a franchise program beginning in early 2017.

Elite Fitness & Body is located on Hwy. 150 next to Jubilee Joe’s. To learn more, visit Bhampersonaltraining.com. n

health & beauty

Block Party One Nineteen celebrates Urgent Care opening WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE HOLDERBY PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

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e’re celebrating the opening of our Urgent Care Center with our largest free Block Party and Health Festival yet on June 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

Like every year, everyone is invited.

Our 10th annual event is poised to be our biggest Block Party yet.

Back by popular demand, the band Act of Congress, which has performed for Disney, NPR and as cultural ambassadors for the U.S. State Department, will present a live concert at our free community event.

In addition to our ever-popular Block Party activities that draw area residents annually, there will also be food vendors, free health screenings, fitness demonstrations and lots of activities for the whole family. There will be a rock wall and an inflatable obstacle course, along with my personal favorite, hot air balloon rides.

Our St. Vincent’s One Nineteen associates have been planning this Block Party for months. Last year, we celebrated St. Vincent’s One Nineteen’s 10th anniversary, and this year our goal to bring you “health care like no other” was realized with the opening of our Urgent Care Center.

This event offers us a chance to not only have a lot of fun with area residents, but also celebrate the community we serve.

Our June 18 gathering also gives you a chance to learn more about the full range of wellness services we offer, from spa to fitness, nutrition to physical therapy, seminars to physician offices, camps to diagnostics

and now thanks to the Urgent Care Center and expansion, ambulatory surgery, urgent care and even more medical offices. That additional office space allows us to extend our specialty offerings to best fit the needs of area residents.

Come celebrate the opening of our Urgent Care Center and the 10th annual Block Party on Saturday, June 18. If you can’t come then, drop by to browse the spa gift shop, ask about year-round children’s activities including numerous summer camps or enroll in our fitness program. We’re excited to show you how St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is committed to health care is like no other.

For more details on the Block Party or other events and services, visit Onenineteen. com or call 408-6600. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen’s is just off U.S. Highway 280 at 7191 Cahaba Valley Road (Alabama Highway 119). n

WHAT: St. Vincent’s One Nineteen 10th annual Block Party and Health Festival WHERE: St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, just off U.S. Highway 280 at 7191 Cahaba Valley Road WHEN: June 18 from 5-8 p.m.

INFO: Visit Onenineteen.com or call 408-6600

Stephanie Holderby is the executive director of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen and vice president of operations for the St. Vincent’s Ambulatory Healthcare Network.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

23

health & beauty

Tracking Fitness

Rocky Ridge Elementary School puts health into action

WRITTEN AND PHOTOS BY MOLLY DAVIDSON TOP: Rocky Ridge Elementary School students held national Walk at School Day on May 5. BOTTOM: The Rocky Ridge students were given pedometers to track their exercise.

24

R

ecess looked a little different at Rocky Ridge Elementary School on May 5. Instead of running to the playground, students celebrated national Walk at School Day on the track.

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Pop music played as students and teachers danced, jogged and walked around the track while wearing pedometers donated by the Wise Up Initiative and Rocky Ridge parent Kevin Drake.

“They’re having fun!” says Rocky Ridge

Elementary School Assistant Principal Dr. Kara Chism.

Students had fun with friends while their pedometers tracked their movement and activity. After spending time on the track, students recorded their step totals with their teachers. Students averaged around 2,000 steps each.

Then, students worked together as a class to total their steps.

“It’s not only supposed to teach them math but also exercise,” says Rocky Ridge PTO member Nancy Halsell.

The May 5 activity was part of the school’s wellness initiative organized by the Wellness Committee. The group organizes projects — such as a new outside drinking fountain for the school — and plans fun and healthy learning experiences covering a variety of topics, from good food choices to injury prevention.

This year, students learned about different foods through a taste test presented by the Wellness Committee at the school’s cafeteria. Students sampled different fruits and tried chicken salad wraps.

“They’re things they might not taste on their own,” Chism says.

P.E. classes included Healthy Eating and Active Living, and fourth and fifth graders learned about concussion awareness and prevention from the Wise Up Initiative.

The Wellness Committee, with the help of a local Eagle Scout, is also working on building a school garden for the 2016-2017 academic year.

Students will plant and tend to the garden and also learn about vegetables and healthy crops. Hands-on lessons will be tied into the garden, as well.

“Kids will learn about how to plant and watch it grow,” Chism says. “(They’ll) have some more taste-test type things and math lessons that go with it, too.” n They could run, walk, dance or just move to get steps. The students worked as a class to total their steps.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

25

features

Canine Cops Hoover K9s help officers detect and diffuse dangerous situations

I

WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON

magine a job that not only lets you bring your dog to work, but it’s actually a requirement. For Hoover Police Department K9 officers, riding around with their fourlegged partners is just another day at work.

The department currently has 26

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

six police dogs, including two Labrador retrievers, a German shepherd, two black Labradors and a Malinois, says Jim Thornton, Hoover PD sergeant in charge of training for the K9 unit.

Thornton joined the department in 1990 and started working with a dual-purpose dog

PAGE 26: A dual purpose dog, Jax is paired with Officer William Warner.

ABOVE: All of the dogs get together once a month to train.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

27

LEFT TO RIGHT: Ava, a black lab, and her handler, Officer Kevin Hollis, work narcotics.

Some of the dogs are trained to sniff vehicles and alert their handlers if there are narcotics.

Jax is the only Hoover K9 trained to bite on command.

28

the year after. Hoover’s dual-purpose dogs search for narcotics and hidden suspects in buildings or other areas — along with using tracking and general preventive patrol skills.

Working with dogs was nothing new for Thornton, who had been showing and teaching them since he was just a teen.

The time it takes to train a police dog varies on what they need to learn, any previous training they’ve received and the dog itself.

Normally, it takes five to six weeks to get them through the initial training, 10 to 12 more weeks for a patrol dog and 12 to 16 weeks for a dual-purpose dog.

“A lot depends on how trainable the dog is,” Thornton says. Most of the dogs they work with come from Europe, he adds.

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Once trained, the dogs become powerful detectors and help the police find suspects, explosives and narcotics. One of Thornton’s dogs found 5 kilos of heroin in a car’s spare tire. Another one of the K9s led them to 1,500 pounds of marijuana.

“They help you find things or people you probably wouldn’t have found otherwise,” Thornton says. “With narcotics, for example, the dog’s indication is what gives us probable cause to look further. In a lot of situations, it’s safer to let the dogs do the searching for us.”

Officer William Warner has seen what the dogs can do first hand. Warner joined the Hoover Police Department in 2011 and handles Jax, a 4-year-old German shepherd.

Warner and Jax typically work the midnight

shift, and Jax is a dual-purpose dog trained for apprehension and narcotics detection.

Like Thornton, Warner also grew up around dogs and now has four, including Jax. So, he jumped on the opportunity to apply for the K9 unit when he came to Hoover.

“It’s one of those things I always wanted to do growing up,” Warner explains. “I knew I wanted to be a police officer, and having a police dog was the ultimate thing.”

Thornton says it takes a special person to be a handler. “You have to be able to relate to animals,” he continues. “It’s not an eight-houra-day job. You have to be able to care for the dog, too. It requires a pretty big commitment.”

All of the dogs live with their handlers.

While they all have doghouses built for them

outside of their handlers’ homes, most spend their time indoors with the rest of the family.

And over time, they learn when it’s time to relax and work.

“When they go home, they are part of the officer’s family — so it isn’t all work. They know when they’re home, they can relax,” Thornton says. “They learn the difference after a while.”

Warner can definitely see the change when they take off for the day.

“He’s a big baby when he’s at home. He’s more playful,” Warner says of Jax, who came from Holland. “If I walk into the backyard with regular clothes on, he’s fine. But if he sees me with my uniform on or start up the patrol car, he gets really excited.”

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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30

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

That excitement has led to several major busts.

One of Jax’s biggest finds was when he indicated on a car, meaning he smelled narcotics. And he was spot on: There ended up being 2 kilos of cocaine in the vehicle.

“That was probably his biggest call out,” Warner says.

About one-and-a-half years ago, Jax also made a major apprehension when he tracked down a suspect who had been breaking into cars in Bluff Park.

“He detects ground disturbances where someone has walked or run,” Warner explains.

Although Jax is trained to bite on command (the only one in the K9 unit), he has never bitten anyone during an apprehension.

When Jax indicates on something, he gets rewarded from that spot. Some of his favorite rewards are a Kong ball, cut PVC pipes and old fire hoses.

These toys are also used during their training. The six dogs and their handlers try to get together once a month to train and reinforce what they’ve learned on the job.

Beyond their normal training and duties, Jax and the other dogs are also used by other municipalities that don’t have a K9 unit. The bomb dogs are used for events like University of Alabama football games and Talladega races for explosive screenings.

While these K9s may look adorable, passersby shouldn’t treat them like normal dogs.

“Alpha dogs don’t like people getting in their faces or hugging them,” Warner says. He asks people not to touch them if they see the dogs around town.

After years on the job, the dogs reach retirement age just like other officers, although there’s no set age. Thornton once had a dog that worked until it was 11 years old.

“I always say, ‘There’s no human as loyal as a dog,’” Warner says. “When I get out of the truck for a traffic stop at night, Jax watches me the whole time. The loyalty and bond is incredible. He’s a police officer just like me.”

For more information about the K9 unit, visit Hooverpd.com. n LEFT: While these dogs are pets for their handlers after hours, they shouldn’t be petted while they are on duty and in work mode.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

31

fashion

Personal Touch The Monogram Spot embroiders clothes, accessories and much more WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON ABOVE: There are a variety of totes and toiletry bags that can be monogrammed. RIGHT: Reata Nix works with her daughter, Chelsea, and their two pups, Big Al and Jasmine.

32

I

t all started with a craft show.

Homestead Hollow, to be exact.

Reata Nix bought a yarn scarf there in 2007 and wondered if she could make something similar at home. So, she took that creative inspiration and past experience from ceramic classes and began creating jewelry and participating in craft shows.

That led to getting monogram machines and personalizing a variety of pieces.

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

“I liked the creative side of it,” Nix says. “I knew I had it in me, but I just didn’t know to what extent.”

She was doing shows on the weekends, while working in the office during the week.

It was during those shows that Nix kept hearing from people how they wished there was a monogram business on U.S. 280. But her customers weren’t the only ones pushing Nix to open a store.

“I already had the machine and inventory,

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

33

so I just listened to what God said,” Nix says.

Nix opened The Monogram Spot in June 2015 in the Village at Lee Branch on U.S. 280. Following God’s plan for her, she added John 3:16 to everything in her store, including her sign.

“I felt like God put that verse on my heart,” she says. “I’m not in it for the money: I’m in it for the people.”

She carries things like Alabama and Auburn tea towels, pillow covers, shirts, jackets, dresses, jewelry, hats, totes, shoes, backpacks, robes, waterproof cell phone covers and even pet clothes.

“If you need a gift and want to get it monogrammed, this is where you come,” Nix says.

People can either buy items from the store or bring them in to get monogrammed.

“Anything that can get a monogram, I’ll do it,” Nix says. “I’ve even done gun cases.”

Other items that would be perfect for the men out there — especially since Father’s Day is this month — are personalized golf shirts, toiletry bags and sleeping bags. She can also add logos.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

LEFT: Big Al and Jasmine greet customers. ABOVE: Get ready for summer with personalized cup holders, bathing suits, bags and much more.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

35

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: People can show their patriotic, personal style with items from The Monogram Spot.

The Monogram Spot is the only one of its kind on U.S. 280. They have Alabama-inspired towels made specifically for the store.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Monograms are a timeless trend that make pieces one of a kind, something hard to find now a days, Nix explains.

“In today’s world, everybody thinks they are a number — but a monogram is personal,” she says.

“They make people feel special because the monogram has their name or initials on it.”

Prices start at about $8 to get an item from the store monogramed, and it goes up from there depending on the type of material.

“I don’t think you should have to be rich to get something monogramed,” Nix says.

Nix works at The Monogram Spot with her daughter, Chelsea, and two other women. “We’re always laughing,” she says. “I love going to

work.”

Adding to the fun environment are Nix and her daughter’s dogs, Jasmine and Big Al. These furry employees greet shoppers as they browse the store.

“It’s a good place to come, shop and just hang out,” Nix says. “I like shopping in that atmosphere, so that’s what I want to keep.”

There’s even a prayer request board in the shop to further complete the community and supportive feel.

The Monogram Spot is located at 611 Doug Baker Blvd. Suite 114 (near Tazikis). It’s open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. For more information, follow them on Facebook. n June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

37

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happening in hoover

Hoover amends academic calendar In response to community requests, the Hoover Board of Education unanimously approved an amended 20162017 academic calendar during a March 14 meeting at Rocky Ridge Elementary School.

The school system is preparing to enact a rezoning plan for the coming academic year. In response to the rezoning, parents requested a later start day for the 2016-2017 academic year.

“Our community, page after page, was (asking), ‘Could we start later? Could we start later?’” says HCS Assistant Superintendent Melody Green.

School will start on Aug. 11 rather than Aug. 4 as originally planned.

To push the start of school back by a week, several adjustments had to be made to the calendar. The last day of school will be pushed from May 24, 2017 to Friday, May 26, 2017.

Students will return from winter break on Jan. 3, 2017 instead of Jan. 4, 2017. One day designated for professional development and one for inclement weather were turned into academic instruction days.

The amended calendar still includes a weeklong vacation for Thanksgiving.

The changes to the calendar resulted in “significantly unbalanced” semesters, Green said.

The 180 required instructional days are split between an 84-day first semester and a 96-day second semester.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Summer camps return to One Nineteen St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is ready for another summer of fun with a variety of camps to meet all interests.

The ever-popular Camp One Nineteen day camp is returning this summer from June-August. Camp runs Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. each week.

“It’s more than your typical, average day camp,” said One Nineteen Aquatics and Children’s Programs Supervisor D’wavalo Turnipseed.

This summer’s schedule is packed with visits from special guests, games, crafts, swimming and more.

Teen and kid cooking camps are also returning to St. Vincent’s One Nineteen this summer.

From June 6-10, teens can learn

cooking techniques from grilling to braising during One Nineteen’s Culinary Boot Camp. The camp will be led by a trained chef and is open to teens ages 13-18.

Kids ages 6-12 can test out their skills during Thyme to Cook for Kids. The camp offers weeklong sessions in June and July. During June’s session, “Cookin’ in the USA,” campers will learn to cook food from regions across America.

The budding cooks will learn to make recipes from famous chefs during the July session, “Cookin’ with the Stars.”

Each session is broken up by age group. The June 13-17 and July 1822 sessions are for 6-9-year-olds.

The June 20-24 and July 25-29 sessions are for kids ages 10-12.

happening in hoover

Rocky Ridge Elementary receives grant

Student to march in Rose Parade Daniel Johnson, a junior at Hoover High School, has been selected by Music for All to be a member of the Bands of America (BOA) Honor Band in the 2017 Tournament of Roses Parade.

Johnson was selected from among hundreds of applicants across the nation for membership in this prestigious national honor band.

He is the son of Don and Bonnie Johnson. His band directors are Ryan Fitchpatrick, Sallie White, Jeff Fondren and Matthew Cicero.

The BOA Honor Band is a 300-piece national ensemble with winds, percussion and a flag and dance team. Bob Buckner, who recently retired as director of the Western Carolina University “Pride

of the Mountains” Marching Band, will direct the 2017 BOA Honor Band.

Johnson, a trumpet player, will spend a week in southern California, where he will have rehearsals, performances at the Tournament of Roses Bandfest and Disneyland, special activities and a featured appearance in the worldfamous parade.

The 128th Rose Parade presented

by Honda themed “Echoes of Success” will take place on Jan. 2 2017 at 8 a.m. PST. The 5 1/2-mile parade (which is often referred to as the “Rose Bowl Parade”) will be broadcast on ABC, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, KTLA (Tribune), NBC, RFD-TV and Univision.

Bluff Park learns about sport Bluff Park Elementary School’s second-grade class is involved in an Adapted Sports Education program with the Lakeshore Foundation.

Lakeshore staff and wheelchair basketball players came to the school and taught the second

graders about the sport of wheelchair basketball.

Then, the students went on a field trip to visit the U.S. Women Paralympic team training at the Lakeshore Foundation to see the sport in action.

The Wahl Foundation, in partnership with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), has awarded one $20,000 grant and 10 $2,000 grants to 11 U.S. schools as part of the UNthink My School grant program.

Rocky Ridge Elementary School, a Hoover City School, is the nation’s recipient for the top grant of $20,000.

The $20,000 will help implement a curriculum called Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) program for grades K-12. The PLTW program for students in grades K-5 — PLTW Launch — introduces students to computer science, engineering and biomedical science concepts, while helping them develop problem solving, critical and creative thinking, collaboration and communication skills.

Rocky Ridge Elementary is a Title 1 Targeted Assistance School.

The grant addresses 21stcentury challenges that Hoover — and nearly every other community — will face.

The $20,000 will help fund technology and curricular initiatives beginning in the 20162017 school year.

School leaders will begin promoting the newly awarded grant on various platforms using the hashtag #UnthinkMySchool.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

41

happening in hoover

Girl Scout Troop creates recycling program Six fifth grade Junior Girl Scouts from Prince of Peace School recently earned their Bronze Award by creating and implementing POP School’s first schoolwide recycling program. As a result, the school is now recycling 4 cubic yards of materials every other week that previously went into the school’s trash.

Junior Girl Scout Troop 150 started researching and planning this Bronze Award-worthy recycling project in October 2015, and by late February 2016 it was in place. This hardworking troop also includes fifth grade girls from Brock’s Gap and the Altamont School.

They began by monitoring the quantity and types of recyclables that

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

originated in the school’s classrooms, offices, art room and kitchen. Armed with that information, they met with representatives from Waste Management to learn what recycling options were available to them as to frequency, type and quantity of materials.

Every week, members of the

National Junior Honor Society collect the bins and transfer their contents to the large, green outdoor container for Waste Management to pick up.

Educational materials were also prepared by the Scouts for Brock’s Gap and the Altamont School since those schools’ recycling programs were already in place.

happening in hoover

Students create stop motion movies On May 3, Deer Valley Elementary School held its first-ever red carpet event for the Stop Motion Animation Movie Premier. Students in Samantha Funkhauser’s enrichment classes created movies using stop motion animation.

Students had to create a concept, make a storyboard and then design a set and characters. Students then had to photograph their characters as they moved a tiny bit to create the effect of movement for their movies.

After that, students put their photos into iMovie and recorded their narration to create the movie. When the movies were created, the students hosted their first red carpet event at Deer Valley, complete with drinks, popcorn and even a red carpet.

Students introduced their movies Many celebrities showed up for the as they were shown and told a little event including Assistant Principal bit about how they were created.

Ami Weems and her husband, Lance

Weems; nurse Karen Fuller and a variety of grade-level teachers, parents and community supporters.

Jeff State Community College student honored Jefferson State Community College student Erin Georgia has been named one of the top 20 community college students in the nation as a member of the 2016 All-USA Community College Academic Team.

The annual honor recognizes students who display an outstanding combination of academic achievement and community service. Georgia, of Trussville, will receive a $5,000 scholarship and was recognized with her fellow team members during the American Association of Community Colleges national convention in Chicago in April. and was out of school for 15 years.

“I would not have received this I needed the personal support that honor without Jefferson State,” Jefferson State provides.”

Georgia says. “I served in the Marines The competition, which included

more than 1,900 nominees from more than 1,000 community colleges across the United States, evaluated students on grades, leadership, activities and their contributions outside of the classroom.

“Leadership comes natural to Erin,” says Matt Boehm, Jefferson State instructor and Phi Theta Kappa advisor. “As an advisor, it is rare to encounter a student who is so comfortable in counseling others.”

In addition to the All-USA Team, Georgia was recently named Alabama’s Coca-Cola New Century Scholar. This program awards a $2,000 scholarship to one student from each state with the highest AllUSA Community College Academic Team application score.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

43

at home

44

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Dog House

Couple and four-legged companions enjoy calling Hoover home WRITTEN BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON

F

or some families, their dogs are much more than pets. And that’s definitely true for Janet and Bill Richardson — whose dogs inspire their home’s design elements, win awards and even help others through therapy.

The dogs (and Richardsons) have called Hoover home for many years, from Loch Haven to Monte D’Oro. Even after moving to New Jersey for Bill’s job, the Richardsons knew sometime in the future they wanted to get back to Hoover.

“We always said we would move back to Hoover,” Janet says. “So when Bill’s company let us move as he could work from home, we were thrilled.”

In 2005, the Richardsons found their current abode in the Green Valley

community at Star Lake.

“I had always enjoyed walking around Star Lake, and when I started house hunting online, I was excited to find this house at the corner of Star Lake on the market,” she says.

A corner lot was not their first choice for a new home, mainly due to upkeep.

“We had a corner lot in New Jersey and said we would never have another corner lot as it was so much work to keep up, but when we saw this house and stepped in the kitchen and saw the view of Star Lake, we forgot all of that,” Janet says.

After moving in, the Richardsons made a few improvements and changes to the hilltop home, but the biggest project was the removal of more than 100 pine trees on the property to open up that fabulous view.

LEFT: Bill and Janet Richardson, along with their dogs, enjoy their Star Lake home.

ABOVE: The dogs have a room where all of their ribbons and trophies are displayed.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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46

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

A fence was also added for the backyard and double doors to the deck from one of the fourth bedrooms in the home. The couple and their grandchildren also enjoy the aboveground swimming pool and deck in the backyard.

All around the property, Janet has found whimsical ways to display birdhouses, windmills and weather vanes. When dusk settles over Star Lake, the Richardsons’ house comes alive with lighted paths, lanterns and colorful decorations. Janet likes to use solar-powered lights for decorating as well. “I really like decorating with lights inside my house and outside in the yard.

It can get very dark here, but it also adds a pop of whimsy.”

Janet calls her home fun and cozy.

Throughout the four-bedroom, threebath home are collections of Welsh corgi memorabilia and photographs of family, particularly grandkids. Janet’s collection of Longaberger baskets make great accents and storage places.

“While in New Jersey, I was part of a big

group of friends who loved Longaberger baskets and we took turns having parties, and made yearly bus trips to Dresdon, Ohio, where they are made. My home is filled with baskets, which turns it from traditional to a little bit country,” she says.

Both Bill and Janet agree their favorite room by far is the kitchen. “I could sit at the table all day and watch the birds and ducks and our two swans, Gordon and Gertie, who we got from Lake Geneva in 2007 for Star Lake,” Janet says. “I like to do some of my sewing here as well.”

The Richardsons have acquired five Ancona white ducks from Arizona for the lake and are leaders in the care and protection of the waterfowl that call Star Lake home.

Swans and ducks are not the only wildlife the couple looks after. The Richardson’s house is also home to their four-legged family members, their champion Pembroke Welsh corgis. Janet, who grew up in Hampshire, England, is quite fond of the breed.

LEFT TOP: Janet created a whimsical, relaxing garden space. LEFT BOTTOM: Janet likes to decorate her home with bright colors. ABOVE: The Richardsons have lived in Hoover communities like Loch Haven and Monte D’Oro before ending up in Star Lake.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

47

“I grew up with Pembrokes, and when we went home (to England) for one of my sister’s weddings, they gave my son David a corgi to bring back to America. That was the start of many things and a life of dog clubs and shows for us in America,” Janet laughs.

The corgis — Glenys the oldest at 15, Dewy, Shani, Merryn, Tegan, Beryl and Annabelle — love to run the hills and chase chipmunks at their Star Lake home. They have their own room where their ribbons and trophies are displayed and occasionally have to go to work herding stray ducks back to the lake.

All of Janet’s Welsh Corgis are AKC registered champions, as well as her breeding name, Tresaith, which comes from the name of a location in Wales close to where she was born. Janet takes her love of crafts and sewing to her own ETSY shop, which also carries the Tresaith name: Tresaith Creations.

Now retired, the Richardsons travel the dog show circuit (including Westminster) but also dive into gardening, crafting and home life. They also devote many hours to community service.

Bill and Janet are active members in the Star Lake Garden Club, and Bill goes with a group every Tuesday to feed the homeless breakfast in the Southside area.

Janet’s mission on Tuesdays and Wednesdays is taking their therapy corgi, Dewy, to Aspire Physical Recovery Center in the morning. Dewy then goes to Chateau Vestavia where he visits the patients in Memory Care and Assisted Living. On Wednesdays, Janet and Dewy visit South Haven, Golden Living and Rocky Ridge retirement homes.

When they are not out serving their community, Janet and Bill still enjoy being at home on Star Lake, basking in the scenery and peacefulness of their Hoover home.

“We have met such nice people on the lake over the years, and I think Bill knows just about everyone here. It is our home, and I don’t think we will be moving from this place,” Janet says. n TOP: The outside space is just as inviting as indoors.

MIDDLE: The couple’s favorite room in the house is their kitchen. BOTTOM: Janet created a whimsical, relaxing garden space.

48

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

June 4 • Municipal Park • Alabaster, AL

2016 • 14th Annual

with Koa

• Michael Warren • The Phil Dudley Band The M-80s • Kate & The Howlers

VISIT our website at alabastercityfest.com for more info and LIKE us at facebook.com/alabastercityfest

food & drink

50

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Tastes South of the

Moe’s serves smoked meats and homemade sides

WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON

W

hen people think about the South, things like football, sweet tea, home cooking and BBQ are probably some of the first things to come to mind.

And when you can enjoy all of those in

one place, you know you have something special — like what you’ll find at Moe’s Original BBQ. With about 45 locations in more than a dozen states, Moe’s has been serving up fresh meats and sides since 2001.

Founders Ben Gilbert, Mike Fernandez and Jeff Kennedy met at the University of Alabama and found they had several common interests, including BBQ. So the

LEFT: Diners can enjoy turkey with white and red BBQ sauce. ABOVE: The restaurant has a casual, New Orleans vibe to it.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

51

Don’t let PAIN keep you from doing what you love.

formerly OnMark Physical Therapy ALTADENA SQUARE

• (205) 298-8711 • (205) 981-4534

CHELSEA (NARROWS)

52

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

• (205) 957-0870 • (205) 621-8822

• (205) 403-8701 • (205) 640-0257

CRESTLINE

HOOVER

HELENA

MOODY

Alabama boys got together and started cooking up some southern-style meals.

The name for Moe’s actually came about from their time in Tuscaloosa: They worked with a man named Moses Day and learned how to fire roast meats.

It was also during this time that they met brothers Kevin and Eric Witherington.

After getting into the restaurant business themselves, the brothers started talking about bringing Moe’s to Birmingham.

And they did just that back in 2007. First in Vestavia Hills, they ended up moving the restaurant to Hoover on Highway 150 near Jubilee Joes. The Hoover Moe’s eventually ended up in Patton Creek about five years ago, where it attracts people in search of a good Southern meal.

Some of their most popular meats are their wings and, of course, pork. The brothers say some of their favorites are chicken and turkey.

“All of our meat is smoked fresh daily,” Eric says. “Every time you come, you know it’s going to be fresh.”

Their menu includes other items like catfish, shrimp, baked beans, marinated slaw, potato salad, banana puddin’, cornbread and special sides of the day.

Moe’s also has daily specials like tacos, Thanksgiving Day sandwiches, blackened

mahi sandwiches and loaded baked potatoes LEFT: Their craft beer list includes ones from Good — and children eat free on Tuesdays.

People. ABOVE: Moe’s “It’s a way for us to give our customers supports local schools and provides meals for something different,” Kevin says about the the Hoover High School specials. football players before Their catering services have really each game. exploded in the Hoover area, Eric says.

They have done parties for 20 people to 2,000.

In addition to the savory, fresh meats, sides and desserts, Moe’s also offers plenty of beverages to cool very time you come, you you down.

They have know it’s going to be fresh.” craft beers like Good — Eric Witherington People, drafts, margaritas and bushwackers.

Guests can also enjoy trivia night every Thursday at 7 p.m.

“We aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel.

Our menu isn’t crazy big,” Kevin says. “We concentrate on doing what we do and try to provide a nice atmosphere for people to get a quick meal or hang out for a while.”

The brothers describe the joint as a funky, New Orleans-style bar and restaurant.

“It’s very casual,” Eric says. “The staff wears shorts and T-shirts. It’s a fun place to

“E

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

53

LEFT: Brothers Kevin and Eric Witherington are the owners of the Hoover Moe’s Original BBQ.

54

come.”

One of their favorite parts about working at the Hoover location is the people. “We’ve had a loyal following since our days on 150 who followed us here,” Kevin says.

The brothers are active in their churches, community and local schools like Hoover

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

and Spain Park high schools. Moe’s is the sponsor of Hoover High School athletics and feeds the football team before each game.

For more information, visit Moesoriginalbbq.com or on Facebook, where they post their daily specials. n

N C T ON

EC ON I Hooverchamber.org

1694 Montgomery Highway, Suite 108, Hoover, AL 35216 | (205) 988-5672 | (205) 988-8383 FAX www.hooverchamber.org | email: bill@hooverchamber.org

Medical West to Sponsor June 16 Luncheon UAB Dean Harold Jones to Speak Medical West, an affiliate of UAB Hospital, will sponsor the June 18 Luncheon, and has invited Dean Harold P. Jones, Ph.D., UAB School of Health Professions, as the speaker.

Dean Jones has served as Dean of the School of Health Professions (SHP) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham since April 2001.

Under his leadership, SHP has seen growth in student enrollment, to nearly 1,500 total; growth in research funding, to more than $14 million; growth in the number of academic programs ranked nationally, with five total; and an increase in philanthropic contributions which helped the School hand out $866,172 in scholarships to UAB students last school year.

Prior to that, he was Dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences at East Carolina University for nine years. While there he expanded the school’s program offerings from nine to fourteen and grew the school’s enrollment and funding by 70 percent. His previous positions include service as Associate Dean of the College of Allied Health

Sciences at the University speaker at The Institute of of South Alabama, a tour Medicine on this topic. as a Program Director Don’t miss this at the National Sciences opportunity to hear Foundation (NSF) and Dean Harold Jones being selected as the first share his information at Chief of the Science Policy the June 16 Luncheon, and Analysis Branch at the to be held at the Hyatt National Institute on Drug Place Birmingham-The Abuse.

Wynfrey Hotel, 1000 Jones earned a Ph.D. Riverchase Galleria, Harold Jones UAB Dean in Biochemistry from Hoover, Alabama, 35244.

Duke University, and Networking begins he was a participant in Harvard’s at 11:15 a.m., with the program Management Development Program. starting at noon. Reservations can He was a co-developer and co-chair be made by calling 988-5672, or of UAB’s Leadership Development emailing admin@hooverchamber.org Program (BLAZE). He chaired the The luncheon is $20, payable at the University’s NCAA Recertification door, or $25 without reservations, if Self-Study Committee, was a space is available. Payment may be member of the Economic Rules Task made by cash, check, or major credit Force and chaired UAB Facilities card.

Organizational Effectiveness You may also make reservations Committee. He is also co-chair online at www.hooverchamber. of the UAB/Lakeshore Research org/lunch.html. Cancellations are Collaborative Governing Board. accepted until the morning of the Most recently, Jones has been active luncheon. Please notify the Chamber in studying the potential impact of if you need to cancel, otherwise, health care reform on the health care those with reservations who do not workforce and has been an invited attend will be invoiced.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine • 55 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Golf for Everyone at Hoover Library Do you want to lead a healthier lifestyle?

Have you ever considered playing golf to help achieve this goal?

Join the Hoover Library on Monday, June 20 at 7:00 p.m. for “Golf For Bryce Thornton, Everyone.”

Hoover Public Library “I’m excited to Business Department provide an outline of how golf is played, and share the physical, social and professional benefits of the game.” - Shella Sylla of Sister Golf and Mister Golf.

For more information, please call 4447816.

Bryce Thornton is the Business Librarian at Hoover Library. You can reach him at 4447816 or brycet@bham.lib.al.us.

Chamber Golf Tournament August 24!

Mark Your Calendars! The 21st Annual Hoover Chamber Golf Classic is scheduled for Monday, August 22, 2016 at Riverchase Country Club, and is one of the area’s best tournaments. Without a doubt, the field will be full with some 130 golfers participating.

St. Vincent’s Health System is the Title Sponsor again this year. Key sponsorship slots are available, including several Hole Sponsorships. This is the largest fund raising event for the Chamber, with the majority of proceeds funding thousands of dollars in scholarships for area students through the Chamber Scholarship Fund.

See GOLF on page 4

Coffee & Contacts Schedule Second Thursday of each month, 7:30 to 9 a.m.

May 12, 2016 — Morningside of October 13, 2016 — Alabama Riverchase Technology Network at Jeff State June 9, 2016 — PGA Tour Superstore November 10, 2016 — Business Resource Group Tuesday, July 12, 2016 — Advantage Resourcing December 8, 2016 — AlaTrust Credit Union Thursday, July 14 — 9-Chamber Speed Networking at Marriott January 12, 2017 — Regus Birmingham Chase Corporate Center August 11, 2016 — Homewood Suites - Inverness

February 9, 2017 — SpectrumReach

September 8, 2016 — Abbey at Inverness

March 9, 2017 — Gold’s Gym Pelham

Luncheon Sponsorships Third Thursday of each month, 11:15 a.m. Networking, Noon Luncheon — NOW Meeting at Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel May 19, 2016 — Spectrum Reach

July 21, 2016 — Regions Bank (Freedom Award)

Business After Hours Schedule Fourth Thursday of each month, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

May 26, 2016 — Inverness Country Club

September 22, 2016 — My Chiropractor

June 23, 2016 — Riverchase Country Club

October 27, 2016 — Brookdale Retirement Community

July 28, 2016 — Galleria Woods Retirement Community

January 26, 2017 — Available

August 25, 2016 — Expedia CruiseShipCenters

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

56

June 16, 2016 — Medical West

February 23, 2017 - OnMark Physical Therapy

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held at the new Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers on Tuesday, April 5, 2016. Shown cutting the ribbon is General Manager Samuria Oladeinde, as Assistant General Manager Natalie Lewis holds the bow. Joining in the celebration are several of the Freddy’s Associates, and dozens of Hoover Chamber Ambassadors and special guests. All were treated to the wonderful Steakburgers and their choice of Frozen Custard deserts. Freddy’s is located at 301 Doug Baker Boulevard in Hoover, in the Village at Lee Branch Shopping Center. They can be reached at (205) 739-2282 or freddys.leebranch@ercmanagement.com. www.FreddysUSA.com

A Ribbon Cutting Event was held Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at the new location of The Gingerbread Lady, at 5510 Highway 280 South, Birmingham 35242, just past The Village at Lee Branch. Shown holding the bow is Owner Ellen Morris, as her son, Dave, cuts the ribbon. They are joined by several friends and associates, and a host of Hoover Chamber Ambassadors. The Gingerbread Lady can be reached at (205) 960-7040 or gblady@thegingerbreadlady.com. Please visit the website at www.thegingerbreadlady.com.

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at the clubhouse for the new Sawyer Trail Community at Ross Bridge. Shown cutting the ribbon is Signature Homes President Dwight Sandlin, as his partner Jonathan Belcher holds the bow. They are joined Hoover City Councilmen Joe Rives (next to Sandlin) and John Lyda (behind Rives), and by dozens of Signature Homes associates, friends and suppliers. Some two dozen Hoover Chamber ambassadors joined the celebration as well. Sawyer Trail is just off the Ross Bridge Parkway, 3.7 miles off Highway 150, and near the entrance to the east side of the Ross Bridge community. For information, contact Signature Homes at (205) 989-5588.

Another Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held at the new Autobahn Indoor Speedway, just off I-459 Exit 6 at Morgan Road, at 5960 Greenwood Parkway, Bessemer 35022.

Shown cutting the ribbon is General Manager Chris Pereira, as Alicia Moore holds the bow. They were joined by several administrative staff and teammates, as well as dozens of Hoover Chamber ambassadors and friends. Everyone was treated to a 14-lap race around the course, as well as plenty of Uncle Maddio’s Pizza. Autobahn Indoor Speedway can be reached at (205) 235-6230 or chris.Pereira@autobahnspeed.com

Jeff Brown, left, of Brownstone Marketing Solutions, is thanked by Chamber President Chris Schmidt at the April chamber luncheon as he presented the 2016-17 Proud Member Banner that he provided. Participating chamber members were able to have their logo displayed on the banner for a low cost of $200. The Proud Member Banner is to be displayed at each major chamber function throughout the year, including chamber luncheons, coffee & contact events, and business after hours events. For information on similar banners or other marketing needs, contact Jeff at (205) 789-3600 or brown@bmsllc.biz.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine • 57 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Thank You, Board of Trustees

Todd Beegle On Tap Sports Café www.ontapsportscafe.com

Kerry Bradley Hoover Tactical Firearms www.hoovertacticalfirearms. info

Greg Livingston Walmart Neighborhood Market Lorna Road www.walmart.com

The Presidents Circle of the Board of Trustees Joe Thomas, Chairman, Capstone Financial Group Terri Q. Williams, AT&T Alabama* Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union* Lisa Worley, Anchor Insurance Agency* John Lyda, Blue Cross and Blue Shield A.W. Bolt, Bolt Law Office* Ken Leatherwood, Bright House Networks Stephen Preston, Brookwood Medical Center Lori D. Moler, Children’s of Alabama* Gina Vansword, First Commercial Bank Mark Garnett, HealthSpring of Alabama, Inc. Joel Smith, Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Paul Dangel, Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel Jerry Cross, Jefferson County EIDA* Henry King, King Acura Leigh Ellen Brummerhoff, Marriott International, Inc. Dan Mikos, Mikos-Kampakis Insurance* Richard Head, RE/MAX Advantage* Chris Leech, Regions Financial Charlie Conklin, Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Tim Prince, Hoover’s Magazine, Shelby County Reporter Kathleen Spencer, Spencer Consulting Group* Dan Ellis, TASC* *Designates a Past President of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce

The Board of Trustees Eric Land, ABC 33/40 Television Pete Gagliano, ADT Security Systems Steve Swofford, Alabama Credit Union Kelvin Johnson, Alabama Gas Corporation/Alagasco Timothy C. Lee, M.D., MPH, Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C. Lesley Searcy, Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund Ashley Robinett, Alabama Power Company Jabo Waggoner, Alabama Senate, District Sixteen Linda Cencula, Avadian Credit Union Steve Nix, AlaTrust Credit Union Jimese Harkley, Americaís First Federal Credit Union Felicia Fortune, American Family Care Randy Johansen, American Family Care Rihan Jamil, BB&T Bank Robert P. (Rob) Fowler, Balch & Bingham LLP Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. Ken Crow, Belk at Riverchase Galleria Doug Hovanec, Belliniís Ristorante & Bar/Revolve Kitchen & Brew Ashfaq Taufique, Birmingham Islamic Society Patty Barron, P.E., Birmingham Water Works Leanne Messer, Brookdale Place University Park Bud Cason, Bud’s Best Cookies Paul Huckeba, C B & S Bank Steve Varieur, Chateau Vestavia Retirement Community

David Jackson, Chick-Fil-A Mike Warren, Children’s of Alabama Bobby Haynes, Costco Wholesale Tamara Harrelson, Covenant Classic Schools Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation Antonio D. Sankey, Eagle Strategies/ New York Life Ricky Brooks, Express Oil/Tire Engineers Patricia Cunningham, Fortis Institute Cody Burns, FOX 6 WBRC Debbie Hultquist, Fresenius Medical Care Terry Turner, Esq., Gentle, Turner & Sexton Molly Wickstrom, Gold’s Gym Alice Johnson, Grandview Medical Center Hal Humphrey, P.E., Gresham, Smith and Partners David Porter, Greystone Golf & Country Club Jinni Lacey, RN, HealthSouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital Neil Thakor, Holiday Inn - Hoover Kerry Bradley, Hoover Tactical Firearms David Arnott, Hyatt Place - Hoover Richard Bishop, ITT Technical Institute Amy Strayer, Jason’s Deli Tony Cooper, Jimmie Hale Mission Joe McGee, Legacy Community Federal Credit Union Dr. Lawrence Lemak, Lemak Sports Medicine Allen South, Little Pumpkins Daycare Dwight Burrell, Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln Bridget Baughan, McDonald’s Keith Pennington, Medical West

Amanda Windsor, Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux David Brown, Office Depot Todd Beegle, On Tap Sports Café Carol Adkins, OnTime Service Jose’ Rivera-Crespo, Outback Steakhouse Jim Quick, P. F. Chang’s Restaurant Horace Moss, Papa Murphy’s Pizza Dr. John R. Phillips, III, PT Orthodontics Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Thomas A. Martin, Riverchase Galleria Andy Davis, St. Vincen’s Health System Leanne Graham, Sam’s Club Sam Dillender, Santek Waste Services Dr. Jack Schaeffer, Schaeffer Eye Centers Sarah Turner, Signature Homes Shannon Trotter, State Farm Insurance Recruiting Clarence “Brother” Moss, Steak ‘N Shake Alain Gallet, Terracon Monique Holiness, The Home Depot-Inverness Mark Hamilton, The Home DepotRiverchase Alison Lindsay, WIAT-42 News Darin Boykin, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 150 Glenn Smith, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 280 Greg Livingston, Walmart Market, Lorna Road Charles Waldrep, Waldrep Stewart & Kendrick, LLC Russell Pate, Zaxby’s

Membership in the Board of Trustees is offered by invitation to members paying a minimum of $1,000 in dues per year. If you are interested in networking with the area’s top business and community leaders, please contact the Chamber at 988-5672.

Golf: continued from page 2 It is a great way to support the Chamber while promoting your company to dozens of members, golfers, and volunteers from around the Hoover area.

This year, we again have the popular Four-Man Scramble Format, with golfers playing as a four-player team. We will divide teams into three flights with prizes offered to all four players of the winning teams

of the three flights. To help raise funds for our scholarships, we have a tremendous array of prizes in our Raffle! Raffle Tickets are $5 each or a book of five for only $20.

For more information on sponsorships and registration, contact Bill Powell at 988-5672, or visit the Chamber website golf page at www.hooverchamber.org/sports/ golf/

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

58

The overall winners of the 20th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament came from the Meyer Vacation Rentals Team. Pictured left to right are Scott Sloan, Dell Oswalt, Committee Chair Kathleen Spencer, Hank Winks, and Dale Jones. They had a team score of 55.

Upcoming Events

May, June and July 2016 MAY

JUNE

May 24: Noon - Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at remodeled Hyatt Place Hotel - Inverness, 4686 Highway 280 East, Birmingham/Hoover 35242. (205) 995-9242 for Annette. scarborough@hyatt.com.

June 2: 8:30 a.m. Economic Development Committee Meeting at Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome!

June 9: 7:30-9 a.m. Coffee & Contacts at PGA Tour Superstore, 165 Inverness Plaza, Hoover 35242.

Contact Mike Connell at mconnell@ pgatss.com or (205) 440-4200. www. pgatoursuperstore.com

May 24: 3 - 4:30 p.m. Constant Contact Workshop at Chamber Office.

Presented by David Barry, of Zeekee Interactive. No charge to attend.

Please make reservations at 205-9885672 or lisa@hooverchamber.org. Space is limited to 18-20 seats.

May 24: 6p.m. 4th Tuesday Monthly meeting of American Legion-Ryan Winslow Post 911, Hoover Tactical Firearms, 1561 Montgomery Highway, Hoover 35216. For information, contact Ron Bradstreet at (205) 529-7464 or bradstrr@att.net .

May 26: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Business after Hours at Inverness Country Club, 1 Country Club Drive, Hoover, AL 35244. Contact Holly Kuck at Inverness Country Club at 991-8608 or holly@diamondclubs. com for information.

June 15: 4:30 p.m. Chamber Ambassador Meeting at Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome!

June 16: Hoover Chamber Luncheon at Hyatt RegencyThe Wynfrey Hotel. 11:15 a.m.

Networking, Noon Luncheon.

Please make reservations by Monday, June 13. Those who make reservations requesting a meal be prepared for them, and do not attend will be invoiced, unless canceled prior to the event. $20 or $25 for non-members or for those without reservations. Lisa@ hooverchamber.org

June 23: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Business after Hours at Riverchase Country Club, 2000 Club Road, Hoover 35244. Contact John Cargill at john.Cargill@riverchasecc.com. www.riverchase.com June 28: 6 p.m. 4th Tuesday Monthly meeting of American Legion-Ryan Winslow Post 911, Hoover Tactical Firearms, 1561 Montgomery Highway, Hoover 35216. For information, contact Ron Bradstreet at (205) 529-7464 or bradstrr@att.net.

JULY July 12: (Tuesday) 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Coffee & Contacts at Advantage Resourcing, 2717 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 107, Hoover 35244.

Contact Michael Cooley at (205) 444-8733 or Michael.cooley@ advantageresourcing.com for information.

July 14: (Thursday) 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

NINE-Chamber Speed Networking Event at Marriott Birmingham on Highway 280, located at 3590 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham 35243. (205) 968-3665.

Mission Statement Amended January 1998. The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce promotes economic growth of business through a strong support system which provides business and community partnerships.

Use this logo to place in your advertising for higher name recognition. This logo can be emailed to members for use in advertising, on business cards, and on letterhead or signs.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine • 59 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors

Joe Thomas, Capstone Financial Group, 2015 President

Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union

Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation, 2016 President

Paul Dangel Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel

Joel Smith, Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall, 1st Vice President

Rihan Jamil, BB&T Bank

Jerome Morgan, Jr., Oncort Services 2nd Vice President

Ira Levine, CCIM, Levine & Associates

Megan Randolph, CPA, Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors, Treasurer

Tynette Lynch Aldridge Gardens

Kathleen Spencer, Spencer Consulting Group, Secretary

Gregg Maercker, First Commercial Bank

Reginald Jeter, J.D. Nationwide Mutual Insurance

Lori Schommer, City of Hoover, City Liaison

Stephen Preston, Brookwood Medical Center

Terry Turner, Esq. Gentle, Turner & Sexton, Legal Counsel

Terry Shea, Wrapsody

New Members — April 2016 Access Health Thomas Smith - 800-797-9503

Brian Kilgore Law Firm Brian Kilgore, Attorney at Law - 2926852

Aerotek Sara McPherson - 968-6100

Once Upon A Child Butler Snow LLC Jim Baghdadi, Managing Member Bradley C. Mahew, Partner - 297-2226 277-0313

Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund Lesley Searcy- 206-7801 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Bellini’s Restaurant & Bar 981-5380 - Doug Hovanec, Owner BOARD OF TRUSTEES Catering by Bellini’s 502-7272 - Doug Hovanec, Owner BOARD OF TRUSTEES Revolve Kitchen & Brew 545-8523 - Doug Hovanec, Owner BOARD OF TRUSTEES

California Pizza Kitchen-Galleria Daniel Meek, Manager - 444-0777 Emily’s Heirloom Poundcakes April McClung - 937-7392 Frank Brocato Mayoral Candidate - 531-2899 Hungry Howie’s Alex Chammout - 492-7742 MedPlex Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Richard Chambliss - 453-0314

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

60

My Spoiled Pet Resort & Spa Donna Lewis, Owner - 980-5520

Outback Steakhouse - Brook Highland Tori Rinehart, Managing Partner 991-4418 River Highlands Jordan Thomas or Merilyn Scivley 982-7000 Southern States Bank Jason Dill - 877-0195 The Firehouse Shelter Catherine Bedingfield - 252-9571

You You already already know knowus. us.

We were there on the day that stopped you in your tracks. We were there when you finally crossed the finish line again.

We’re your neighbors and your friends, and now we’re part of Alabama’s newest progressive healthcare network.

With five hospitals, dozens of specialty centers, and the largest primary care network in Alabama, Brookwood Baptist Health is a new community of care, united in service and devotion to you, the people of central Alabama.

Call 877-346-0714 for an appointment BROOKWOODBAPTISTHEALTH.COM

SPOTTED

Hannah Home Tablescapes The annual Hannah Home Shelby Auxiliary Tablescapes Luncheon was held April 6 at Metro Church of God to raise money for King’s Home Shelby. (Photos by Emily Sparacino)

Sarah Moselee, Julie Narz, Dink Boice and Mary Mueller

Stephanie Freeman, Peggy Devane and Billie Holleman

Denise Tassone and Patricia Barnes

Patricia Barnes, also known as Sister Schubert

Rhonda Gilbert, Ranea Breen, Tanya Wallace and Anne Bishop

62

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Elaine Dameron and LaVerne Reese

Maureen Bunn and Barbara Suttle

David Moser, Vince McAleer, Ed Wood, Brian Pyatt and Van Hayes

Rhonda Gilbert, Amy Reese and Margaret Stewart

Susan Jones and Mary Cole

Cindy Edmunds and Elise Hearn

Donna Reiber, Tosha Lyles, Jessica Bennett and Rhea Grady

Tameka Askew, Jennifer Autwell and Gwen Solomon June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

63

Denim and Dining

SPOTTED

The Hoover City Schools Foundation held Denim and Dining to raise money for city schools at the Hoover Met on April 16. (Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Joachim Hofmann, Brian Harris, Michael Kurz and Todd McGarity

Laurie Gallik and Anne Marie Everly

David Cohen and Dr. Kathy Murphy

Mike and Shelley Shaw

64

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Joe and Bonnie Rives

Christine Hofmann and Gina Harris

Chuck and Jennifer Green

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Derrick Murphy and Mike Harfield

Josie Kurz and Jill Erwin

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Janet Turner and Jason Gaston June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

65

SPOTTED

Cowboy Chicken Cowboy Chicken held a ribbon cutting for its Inverness Corners location on May 5. (Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Kim Jensen and Dia Zuaiter

Peter Northcott with Jason and April DeLuca

Cindy Edmunds, Sylinda Daniel and Jordan Thomas

Dee Grisham, Terrance Franklin, Stephanie Romeo, Sam Sulliven and Margaret Cochran

Amy and Franklin Solito

66

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Kelly Reeves and Ira Levine

April Stone and Jordan Thomas

Andy Tatum and Harry Horner

Morgan Samples and Ali Minetree

Erdos Launch Party Patton Creek’s Erdos At Home held a launch party on April 27.

(Photos by Lauren Dowdle) Maghan Armstrong and Megan Champion

John Erdos, Debbie Eller, Rhonda Pyatt and Jay Clyce

Bill Powell, Megan Champion, Rhonda Pyatt and Jay Clyce

Jay Clyce, John Erdos and Bill Powell

Clay Tavel and Myeisha Rice June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

67

SPOTTED

Feast of St. Mark Festival St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church held the annual Feast of St. Mark Italian Food Festival on April 30.

(Photos by Molly Davidson)

Pat Albano and Katelyn Marshall

Gretchen Franz and Paris Malensek

Christian, Isabella and Tatyann Arruda

Angie Lorino Meadows and Carol Pilleteri

Dorothy Hughes and Joe Huttoe

Grow your career here.

If you’re looking for a fun, high-energy career with growth and earning potential, then my Allstate agency may be right for you.

Expand your sales skills while helping protect what matters most in people’s lives. You can help make a difference in your community with a brand that’s been putting people in good hands for nearly 85 years. Sound good? Let’s talk.

Join my team as a sales professional and you will: • Make a good living for your hard work • Receive ongoing training and support to grow your career • Work in a local business for your community • Help people protect what matters most • Have a professional career that challenges, inspires, and gives you room to grow Call me if this sounds like a good fit for you or someone you know.

Hart McGarry 205-690-3234

The Licensed Sales Professional opportunity is not an employment opportunity directly with Allstate Insurance Co.; but rather employment as a staff member with Allstate Exclusive Agents, who are independent contractors. © 2015 Allstate Insurance Co.

68

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

173373

7950 Hwy. 31, Ste. B Calera hartmcgarry1@allstate.com

Victor Graffeo, Marsha Saia, Norman Saia and Andy Graffeo

Lana Guess Thompson and Bill Thomas

HOMEWOOD HOOVER CHELSEA ALABASTER CULLMAN TRUSSVILLE

Steve and Sue Lovoy

John and Renee Leavens

Breathing should be the last thing on your mind.

Make an appointment with our board-certified allergists today.

Call 205.871.9661 alabamaallergy.com

Celebrating 50 Years

of Providing Quality Pediatric and Adult

Allergy and Asthma Care

Jacqueline and Jack DeMarco, Dylan and Evan Gatlin, Angela and Isabelle Rodriguez and Alyssa Raiford

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

69

SPOTTED

Cellar 91 Opening The Greystone Golf & Country Club held a grand opening and ribbon cutting for its new restaurant, Cellar 91. (Photos Contributed)

Jeff, Addison and Kristy Curl

St. John Bender, Delaney Porter and Mallory Bobba

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Delaney Porter and Mary Madison Hiers

Dave Porter, Terry Smith, Russ Hale, Roy Sewell, Frank Paduch and Jeff Clifton

chelsea comprehensive dental Ryan A. Draiss, DMD

Charlotte Culton and Al DelGreco

Aimee and Greg Stohler

Julie Kim, Dottie Smith and Lynda Morris

Voted Shelby County's Best Private School K-12

Fully Accredited | Athletics (10) Degreed Teachers | Low Teacher-Student Ratio Weekly Chapels | Marching & Concert Bands

More Information: kingwoodchristianschool.com • 663-3973

Kiki and Petros Kartos

Phillip and Camille Lozito

YOUR

COMMUNITY.

YOUR

STORIES.

YOUR MAGAZINE.

Subscribe today TO RECEIVE A COPY IN YOUR MAILBOX MONTHLY !

• • • •

Jeff Kaufman and Lisa Rains with Elliott and Ryen Valentine

A RTS & C ULTURE L OCAL F ASHIONS U NIQUE H OME F EATURES M ONTHLY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

$20.41 for one year,12 issues

To subscribe visit hooversmagazine.com or call 669-3131.

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

71

Celebrate Hoover Day

SPOTTED

Thousands of people flooded Veterans Park on Valleydale Road for Celebrate Hoover Day on April 30. (Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Daniel and Nichole Smith with Odin and Izzie

Shawna Herron, Lauren Ford and Theresa Davis

Kristin Prunchak and Alicia Corle

Glenn Nivens and Don Roberson

72

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Thomas Hart and Marissa Latham

Lindsey Fincher and Bragg Scroggins

Justin and Tiffany McNair with Luna and Demi

Eddie and JaWanda Jackson

John Lyda with Mike and Shelley Shaw

Sarah Oliver, Tamryn Brophy and Shealee Gibbons

Sherlyn and David Bolin

Aspen and Haley Williams

Anya, Ronan and David Todd

Julie Gibbs, Allyssa Colburn, Apryl Stanley and Hannah Christie with Red Bull and Lily Ann

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

73

Celebrate Hoover Day

SPOTTED

Thousands of people flooded Veterans Park on Valleydale Road for Celebrate Hoover Day on April 30. (Photos by Molly Davidson)

King, Sicileigh and Shaun Hunt

Jazmyne Marion and Brandy McCainey

74

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Tammy and Arianna Duren

Nyla Hall and Karlynn Pettaway

Amanda and Jackson Reagan

Jackie Wanjiku and Georgina Maina

Ashley Kigondu, Amanda Vogel and Midhelle Kigondu

Janelle and Judith Mims

Eugene and Lennox Rogers

Angel Walls, Joy Walls and Kayla Johnson June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

75

SPOTTED

Greystone Ladies Club April Luncheon The Greystone Ladies Club learned all about pearls from Love The Pearls Inc. executive Taylor Brennan at the club’s April 13 luncheon at the Founders Clubhouse. (Photos by Emily Sparacino)

Leigh Anne Priest, Lisa White and Trudy Vaughn

Janie Green, Patti Stahlhut and Betty Galbraith

Wendy Weldman, Susie Hammers and Rita Wood

Judy Arnold, Roula Hakim and Wilma Thompson

Debbie Coston and Jenice Prather-Kinsey

76

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

Wendy Howell and Sierra Parle

June 2 First Thursday Fiction Book Group

CALENDAR Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: France

•Hoover Public Library•

June 10 Friday Open Gaming

The First Thursday Fiction Book Group will discuss “The House We Grew Up In” by Lisa Jewell on June 2 at 10 a.m. The event is free and will be held in the adult programming room.

•Hoover Public Library•

Hang out and play board, card and video games with friends. Snacks will be provided. The event is for grades 7-12 in the children’s programming room.

June 3 Friday Night Flicks •Veterans Park•

Grab a blanket, your family and friends, and head to Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road in Hoover, for a free family-friendly movie on June 3, June 10, June 17 and June 24. The films will start at dusk. For more information, call 4447765.

June 5 Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: France •Hoover Public Library•

Coffee-ol-ogy Cafe presents free programs on food and coffee from around the world. On June 5 at 2:30 p.m., the group will explore French cuisine in June.

Complimentary samples will be provided.

June 6 Summer Camps •Aldridge Gardens•

Aldridge Gardens will hold summer camps in June for boys and girls entering kindergarten through fourth grades. Camps available for children entering 5K through second grades in the fall include: American Girls in Aldridge Gardens on June

library June 10 at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the children’s programming room.

6-10, June 13-17, June 2024 and June 27-July 1; and June 13-17 Engineering FUNdamentals: Create, Construct, Connect!, June 27-July 1 Construction in Nature: Experimenting with Materials to Build Structures in Nature. Camps available for children entering second through fourth grades in the fall include: American Girls in Aldridge Gardens on June 6-10, June 13-17, June 2024 and June 27-July 1; and June 6-10 Outdoor Makers: Creating Creative Kids! and June 20-24 Construction in Nature: Experimenting with Materials to Build Structures in Nature. Day camps run from 9 a.m. to noon, Monday–Friday. The cost is $105 per camp for family level members and $125 per camp for non-members. For more information, contact Audrey Ann Wilson at aawilson@aldridgegardens. com or call 682-8019.

June 7 Roger Day •Hoover Public Library•

Sing loud, jump high and dream big at Roger Day at

the library June 7 at 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; June 8 at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and June 9 at 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Laser Blast Combat •Ultra Blast Combat Center•

Kickoff summer at the Ultra Blast Combat Center on June 7 at 6:30 p.m. The Hoover Public Library will provide admission for teens.

Participants must register to attend. Space is limited. The event is for grades 7-12.

June 9 Second Thursday Fiction Book Group •Hoover Public Library•

The Second Thursday Fiction Book Group will discuss “The Guest Room” by Chris Bohjalian on June 9 at 10 a.m. The event is free and will be held in the adult programming room.

Movin’ with M.A.C. •Hoover Public Library•

Movement activities for ages 3-7 will take place at the

Purl @ the Plaza •Hoover Public Library•

Join old friends and make new ones at this crafty meeting of all fiber enthusiasts. Bring yard and knit, crochet or embroider with the group June 11 at 1 p.m.

June 12 Young Artists Reception •Hoover Public Library•

Celebrate the library’s featured children’s gallery artists June 12 at 3 p.m.

Awards will be given at 3:30 p.m. in the children’s programming room.

June 13 Story Gym: Let’s Jump!

•Hoover Public Library•

Summer storytime workout for children younger than 4 years old will be held June 13 at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Undefeated •Hoover Public Library•

This Oscar-winning film documents the struggles of a high school football team June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

77

as it attempts a winning season after years of losses.

Admission is free, and refreshments will be served.

The event will be held June 13 at 2 p.m. For more information, call 444-7840.

June 14 Arthur Atsma

CALENDAR

June 16 Angry Birds

Iron Chef •Hoover Public Library•

Can your team create a tasty snack using the secret ingredient? Find out at Iron Chef, an event for grades 7-12 on June 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Carlos Pino

Find Dory, explore your feelings and walk with the dinosaurs June 18 at 10:30 a.m. Crafts and games with Pixar characters will be available for all ages.

Join the Angry Birds as they face their foes and have some fun. The event is for grades 4-6 on June 16 at 4 p.m.

•Hoover Public Library•

Sleight of hand artist, magician and entertainer extraordinaire Arthur Atsma will perform at the library June 14 at 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; June 15 at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and June 16 at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

•Hoover Public Library•

June 18 Pixar Party

•Hoover Public Library•

Jazz guitarist Carlos Pino and his band will play a mixture of classic jazz, as well as original compositions, on June 16 at 6:30 p.m. A gifted guitarist, Pino teaches at various universities in the Birmingham area in addition to being in high demand as a player with his own band and other ensembles. The event is free and will be held at the library plaza.

June 17 Friday Open Gaming •Hoover Public Library•

Hang out and play board, card and video games with friends. Snacks will be provided. The event is for grades 7-12.

After Hours @ the Plaza: Library Bingo •Hoover Public Library•

Round up your family and friends to compete for great prizes while playing a classic game with a library twist June 17 at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be provided.

For more Movie information, call Night Out the Circulation Department at 444-7800.

78

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

•Hoover Public Library•

June 20 Story Gym: Race On! •Hoover Public Library•

Summer storytime workout for children younger than 4 years old will be held June 20 at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

June 21 David Stephens •Hoover Public Library•

Billy Goats Gruff & Other Stuff. In this one-man performance utilizing hand, rod and glove puppets, Stephens retells this classic June 21 at 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; June 22 at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and June 23 at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Movie Night Out •Hoover Carmike•

Get your nostalgia on at the movies June 21 at 4 p.m. Join the librarians for a showing of Finding Dory at Hoover Carmike. The library will provide admission for teens in grades 7-12. Space is limited; register now.

June 23 Choose Your Own Adventure •Hoover Public Library•

Pick your path through this

exciting adventure program June 23 at 4 p.m. for grades 1-3.

June 24 Friday Night at the Movies – Inside Out •Hoover Public Library•

Come to the library for Friday Night at the Movies on June 24 at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, and refreshments will be provided.

June 25 2016 GBAC Aubie 5K •Veterans Park•

The 2016 Aubie 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run in memory of Meredith Maddox will be held June 25 at Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road in Hoover. All proceeds go to support the Greater Birmingham Auburn Club’s academic scholarship endowments. The eight endowments are awarded

by Auburn to students attending from Shelby and Jefferson counties. Race times are 8 a.m. for the 5K and 9 a.m. for the 1-mile fun run. Participation costs $30 for the 5K by May 9, $35 for the 5K between May 10 and June 19, $40 for the 5K from June 20 to race day, $20 for the fun run and $10 for kids 12 and under. Refreshments, door prizes and activities for kids will be available. For more information, contact Nick Hall at nahall@southernco. com or 256-298-1494 or Michael Lovett at 205-9666776 or at michael.lovett@ yahoo.com. n

Marketplace Hoover’s Magazine • 205.669.3131

Cooling Season starts June 5 for Chilton/Shelby County. Call Appointment Line at 205-287-0139 or online at eaaoac.cascheduler.com 11th Area of Alabama O.A.C.

Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-389-4530.

For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657

Acceptance Loan Company, Inc. Personal Loans! Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans!

224 Cahaba Valley Rd, Pelham 205-663-5821

AFFORDABLE HIGHSPEED INTERNET Available where you live! Call Today for this Limited Time Offer! www.pbsinternet.com, 800-266-4409.

B&J Metal Fabricators Professional sheet metal replacement and fabrication on classic cars/trucks. $65.00/hour for labor Parts/supplies additional Quotes based per job.

Media blasting available.

Powder coating coming soon. Montevallo area.

(205)665-4687 (205)296-9988

CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock.

Alabaster/Pelham Call Stephen (205)663-2822

Backhoe Work and General Hauling Services.

Gravel, red clay, sand, pea gravel. Can clean ditches out and recover road with new gravel.

Contact Barry Cunningham (205)217-5731 FIREWOOD-OAK or HICKORY Pick up - only 6 cents per pound. Commercial and Residential delivery also available.

Columbiana Wood Products 21421 Hwy 25, Columbiana (205) 671-5202 Welder Training Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com

Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website www. capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing. 800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnlineAuctions. com 205-326-0833 Granger, Thagard & Assoc.

Jack F. Granger #873 TARGET AUCTION Advanced Real Estate Marketing 800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com

classifieds

HooversMagazine.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 Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer HIRING Production Workers in McCalla.

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS! Various shifts, temp-to-hire positions!

Apply online at: www.adeccousa.com or call our office at 205-497-6400 ext. 2033 NEED A JOB? NEED A BETTER JOB? AIDT recruits, screens and trains qualified applicants for outstanding jobs statewide. All at NO COST to you! Visit www.aidt.edu/ jobs today to view your opportunities!

Bibb Medical Center & Nursing Home Currently Hiring For: •Hospital DON •Billing/ Insurance Clerk •MLT/ MT •LPN & RN’s •Labor & Delivery Nurses •CNA’s & PCT’s Apply at: Hospital Information Desk, 208 Pierson Ave., Centreville, AL Or email resume to: bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter. com. Apply Online: bibbmedicalcenter.com

BURGER KING JOIN OUR MANAGEMENT TEAM Schuster Enterprises, Inc., a Franchisee of Burger King, is looking for Management professionals who have a desire to join a team where people are the most important asset, where growth is based on ability and where opportunity is abundant. Benefits: Competive Wages, Health & Life Insurance, Paid Vacations, 401(k).

Apply online at: www.jointeamschuster. com. (EOE - DRUG FREE WORKPLACE).

Class-A CDL Driver. $500 Sign-On Bonus. Must be 25+ years with clean MVR. 1 year with 6 months flatbed experience. $.34$.40pm w/dh $.20 pay.

Contact HR: (205)706-4837 JOIN OUR TEAM! MAINTENANCE ENGINEER FOR A BURGER KING FRANCHISE Schuster Enterprises, Inc., a Franchisee of Burger King, is looking for a person with skills in HVAC and Refrigeration, Light Electrical and Plumbing.

•Competitive Wage based on skills and experience, annual reviews.

•Health and Life Insurance •401 (k) Profit Sharing Plan •Paid Vacations •Maintenance Vehicle & Tools furnished FOR INTERVIEW CALL DAVID STEVENS (706)563-3066 (EOE—DRUG FREE WORKPLACE)

Seeking Experienced Delivery Drivers Requires 2-years experience/ clean driving record.

Knowledge of Birmingham/ surrounding areas beneficial.

Benefits included. Apply: 140 W.Oxmoor Rd., Birmingham Email resume: nrenta@centralpaper-al.com CHANGING SPACES RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MOVING, INC. NOW HIRING! EXPERIENCED HOUSEHOLD GOODS MOVING DRIVERS Health, Dental & Retirement Benefits. Full Time, Part Time, or Seasonal. Drug Testing and Background Checks Required.

(205)972-0744 Masters Level Counselor Needed Chilton County Treatment Center 2100 Holiday Inn Drive, Clanton, AL 35045 Call for more info.

205-755-4300 Ready to Work for the #1 Brand in the World?

Now Hiring Class A-CDL Drivers for Coca-Cola Bottling United. Go to www.cocacolaunited.com to apply!

COLUMBIANA HEALTH & REHAB LPN Charge Nurse PRN - 12 hour shifts Excellent Salary. Interested applicants should send resume to: shannon.bell@ northporthealth.com

June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

79

Coosa Valley Medical Center Now Hiring!

Respiratory Therapist: 7pm7am RNs (Med/Surg): 7am-7pm & 7pm-7am RN (Labor/Delivery): 11pm7am Email resume to: Janean.Crawford@cvhealth. net or to apply, go to www.cvhealth.net DCH Health System Caring. For Life. $5,000 sign-on Bonus. For More Information Contact: Annie.

Miller@dchsystem.com.

Apply online at: www.dchsystem.com WELDERS NEEDED! Experienced MIG welders, fitting experience preferred.

Weld test required: bring welding helmet. Must pass mandatory drug test prior to employment. Weekly pay and benefits package.

Apply in person from 9am-1pm: E-Box 101 Air Park Industrial Road Alabaster, AL 35007 NOW HIRING FOR HOMECARE AIDES & LPN’s IN THE SHELBY COUNTY AREA. Apply Online: www. eldercareofnorthalabama. com under the ‘Cullman’ office or call 256-727-5312 (M-F 8am-5pm) $3000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area. Must have class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience.

Good pay and benefits.

Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.

80

THE FISH MARKET RESTAURANT CASHIERS & SERVERS NEEDED. NOW HIRING HAPPY People with GREAT Attitudes! Must be Flexible/Hours Vary Apply in Person ONLY Hwy 280 & Hwy 31 Locations PLANT MAINTENANCE POSITION Desired Skills: •Minimum 10-years experience in plant industrial maintenance environment (mechanical/ hydraulics/electrical/ fabrication/pneumatic) •Strong electrical trouble shooting skills in highvoltage as well as lowvoltage •Ability to work on PLC is required Apply At: Foley Products, Clanton or online: www.foleyproducts.com Foley Products Company is an EOE. Franklin Iron Works Now Hiring Grinders & Laborers Must apply in person at 146 Tommie Dr, Thorsby Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm Hiring Stylists in Chelsea & Calera Average Pay $12 & Up 205-966-7254 Hardee’s Now Hiring •Crew Members/Hoover •Management/Calera Email resume to: hardees2007@bellsouth.net LPN’s, RN’s, CNA’s Full-time & part-time • 2nd & 3rd Shift Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Ctr Dr Clanton, AL 35045 Tree Climber / Bucket Operator Top pay guaranteed.

5 yrs exp. CDL required.

Drug Test Required.

205-836-2038 or 205-229-7144

• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

J & M Tank Lines is now hiring qualified Class A CDL Drivers for our Calera, AL terminal! If you are hired in the next 30 days then you will be eligible for the **$2,000 Sign-On Bonus** Benefits : •Paid Weekly by direct deposit •Paid Vacation & Holidays •401K with company % match •Medical, Vision & Dental through BCBS starting as low as $10/week •Company Paid $50,000 Life Insurance Policy •Safety, Referral and Christmas Bonuses Requirements: •You must be at least 25 years old •Have no more than 3 moving violations in the past 3 years •18 months of Tractor Trailer experience •Tanker Endorsement preferred but NOT required as you will be trained If you meet the above requirements and are interested in a position with us at J & M Tank Lines then you may contact Sarah Murphy @ (205)769-3544 or go to www.jmtank. com to fill out our online application! We only have a couple of positions available so please don’t pass up this great opportunity!

Klassy Klean hiring Cleaning Techs.

Mon-Fri, 8:30-4:30 Cleaning homes & businesses. Requirements: good background/drugfree/good work ethics/ trustworthy, able to work w/team, project positive attitude, and learn professional cleaning techniques.

Call 205-685-9883 for more information.

NOW HIRING •Tri-Axle Drivers- Class A or B •Backhoe Operators •Asphalt Laborers Lake Mitchell Construction CALL 205-755-7264 Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com FT Drivers Needed. Must be willing to work days, nights or weekends. Wages begin at $10/hr. www.MacsDelivers.com 866-217-1928 or email amy@macsdelivers.com MACS Courier Service Christian Mission Agency in Wilsonville Seeking Administrative Assistant Excellent organizer, proficient in Excel, data entry and manual filing systems. $25-28k. Send resume: info@makewaypartners.org McKinnon Toyota and Nissan Hiring for Detail and Lube Tech. Apply online at mckinnontoyota.com or in store (see Receptionist).

Shake up your career!!!

Are you looking for something new and FUN? Milo’s is always looking for great managers to come join our growing and dynamic team. Apply online at miloshamburgers.com Class-A CDL DriverDry Bulk/PneumaticBirmingham,AL Must be 25+, have clean driving record, two-years tractor/trailer experience.

Will train drivers on tank.

Good benefits-almost all drivers home everynight.

Contact Keith 205-438-4959

Noland Health Services Now Hiring RN’s Day & Night Shift Available Noland Hospital Shelby Located in Shelby Baptist Medical Center Alabaster To Apply Visit: www.nolandhealth.com Production / Manufacturing Vance, Alabama Starting pay: $12.00 – $14.50 /hr.

• Have 2 years+ Production/ Manufacturing experience.

• Have Recently Lived in Alabama at least 2 years.

• Have A High School Diploma or GED. • Are at least 18 years old.

Complete your application on line at www.naonsite.com Odyssey Early Schools.

Birmingham’s Best Daycare/ Preschool is Seeking Experienced Teachers. 4 Year Degree Preferred.

Full-Time. BEST Pay. FULL Benefits (Insurance, Leave, Holidays). Call Annie Fine 991-0039.

OFFICE ENVIRONMENTS Commercial Furniture Dealership Currently Accepting Applications for Experienced Furniture Installer. We offer excellent pay and benefits. Qualified applicants should call (205)443-8344. E.O.E M/F/D/V/ADA PawTree. Love Pets? Love People? How would you like to educate pet parents about customized pet nutrition and other fun pet products? We are looking for positive and motivated people who love pets to open up the Alabama area!

No experience necessary.

Full or Part-Time! Own your own business while making profit with a purpose.

Minimal start up fee. For more information, email healthypetpro@gmail.com

Manufacturing/Assembly positions available in Calera & McCalla areas.

Full time hours, all shifts available. Call today 205-267-3910 A Peace of Mind In Home Care has an Immediate Need for Care Givers Must have 4 years verifiable experience in a residence or a facility.

Flexible schedule.

Companion care/personal care/total care patients.

Light housekeeping, meal prep,transportation to dr and activities.

Must pass background check/drug screen/clean driving record.

Call (205)671-5102 Fax 205-671-5069 Or Email Resume annpauley68@gmail.com Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately for Dump Trailer Hauling • $2000 Retention Bonus • Local Hauling • Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: www.perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC 251-470-0355 Burger King Hiring General, Assistant & Shift Managers Top Pay/Monthly Bonus/ Vacation/ Medical Benefits.

3yrs fast food experience required. Fax resume: 334-649-1112 Or apply at: www.work4bk.com OTR Class-A Driver •Montgomery, AL 3yrs Experience •$.40-$.50 Per Mile Paid Weekly •BCBS Insurance Home Weekends •EZ Press & Prepass Safety & Fuel Bonus Call: (334)288-8106

HIRING Afternoon Teachers for Christian Early Learning Center, 6wks to 4k in Helena. Also, hiring Subs. Call 426-1910 or email resume to bill@rbchelena.org S&G Poultry-Hiring Farm Staff Requirements: •Ability to lift/move 60+ lbs.

•Valid DL Duties: •Feeding birds •Collecting/grading eggs •Moving birds/cleaning pens •Perform related work as required.

Some weekends/holidays.

Can not own/come into contact with other poultry.

EEOC-Employer 205-7557082 Local Concrete Delivery CDL Drivers Experience preferred. CDL Required. Chilton/Shelby/ Jefferson County Deliveries. Benefits include BCBS, vision, dental. Late model equipment.

205-755-3930 Order Selectors Food Dist. Center in Pelham Al. Day Shift: Mon-Fri. 40+ hours/week. 10:00AM until finished (varies).

Benefits: Medical, vision, dental, vacation & 401k.

Requirements: Reading & math skills, Lift 40 lbs. repetitively, Work in -10 Temperature Apply 8:30AM-5:00PM Southeastern Food, 201 Parker Drive, Pelham, Alabama 35124 205-685-4533 MECHANICS NEEDED: Afternoon Shift SOUTHERN HAULERS 2157 Hwy 16 Calera, Alabama 35040 Call Vince: (251)230-1692 Fax resume to: (330)726-7887 Email to: kzook@rjtrucking. com

Immediate Positions!!!!

Positions needed: Warehouse • Sales Reps • Assistant Manager • Delivery Drivers • Customer Service. Laid back atmosphere, good pay, plenty of hours available!

Company vehicles to qualified individuals! Call Andrew 9am-7pm • Monday-Saturday at (205)490-1003 or (205)243-6337 TaylorMade Transportation Hiring CDL Drivers for Flatbed Regional Division! BCBS Insurance After 30 Days. To apply call: (334)366-2269 or email: s.smith@taylormadeinc.com CV Home Health currently recruiting for: LPNs/RNs •Great pay •Manage own schedule If you’d like to become part of our growing team, call: 866-273-3984 shendon@techota.com TEMP FORCE HIRING NOW: Assembly and Inspection!

Childersburg & Vincent. Full Time. 1st and 2nd Shifts.

Entry Level OK! Apply at TempForce: (256)245-8367 www.tempforcejobs.com Shoal Creek Barn Hand Flexible part or full time hours w/benefits Call Carrie: 991-4654 or 427-5591.

Landscape Assisstant 6:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.

Full Time • Monday-Friday Paid health benefits.

Looking for a quick learner, with great work ethic!

Call Carrie 205-991-4564 or 205-427-5501

Now Hiring Experienced Class A Drivers. Thorsby/ Prattville Lane. $500 SignOn Bonus. 7 Paid Holidays and Vacation Pay. Call (334)687-6000 ext 18.

Evergreen Forest Products.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS CDL-B DRIVERS WITH TWO YEARS EXPERIENCE. WASTE REMOVAL EXPERIENCE PREFERRED, 25+, CLEAN RECORD, HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF SHELBY AND JEFFERSON COUNTIES. CALL: 205-419-4005 Hiring Installers for new Alabaster Location!

Responsibilities: Install according to work order and guidelines, Follow all OSHA and Company Safety policies/procedures.

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June 2016 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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why I love Hoover

‘I love that it is right smack dab in the middle of everything.’

N

ot many people can say they’ve run in the Boston Marathon. Even more rare is having that one being only the third they’ve ever competed in. But, that’s the case with Hoover’s Georgia Izard. Finishing Birmingham’s Mercedes Marathon in 3 hours and 24 minutes is what qualified her for the Boston Marathon.

Q: When did you start running?

A: I actually started running when I was about 8. My mom was in her 40s, and we ran a 5K together — and I complained the entire time that my legs were broken and I couldn’t go another inch. Somehow, I made it through the 5K and actually ended up loving running so much that I ran track and cross country from middle school to college.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about running?

A: I just feel like a different person when I run. There is no stress. No chaos. Just me, myself and I. I love every second and every mile.

Q: What was it like to be part of the Boston Marathon?

A: There are absolutely no words.

The entire race you are crammed in the course like a sardine. But, the crowd — those amazing spectators: They make the race. I believe every Bostonian and all the family and friends of every runner who was running were out there screaming and cheering for each and every individual runner. It made it feel like they were just cheering for you and only you.

Q: Besides the marathon, what was your favorite part about Boston?

A: Everything is historic. Even the McDonalds was in a beautiful Q: Why did you decide to compete in building. We took a Duck Tour the Boston Marathon?

— which was so much fun — and learned about so much of the city.

A: Since I qualified for it, I felt like I had to: thinking of all those runners who strive for a BQ (Boston Q: What do you love about Hoover? qualifying time) and work so, so, A: I love that it is right smack dab in so hard and never reach it. It was a the middle of everything. It’s a quick drive to anything you could possibly privilege, and I was honored to be a want to get to in no time. It’s not part of such an amazing and crazy so overcrowded with tons of garden opportunity.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | June 2016

homes, and it’s not so rural that you run out of things to do. There are so many great restaurants, parks and shopping locations to keep you entertained for hours.

Q: What is something not many people know about you?

A: I hate eating healthy and would eat fast food and desserts if I could all the time, which makes my mom so sad to hear.

Q: Which marathon or race do you hope to participate in next?

A: In October, I’ll be running the Chicago Marathon. My best friend lives up there, and I’ll go up to run the race and spend the whole week with them. I also am doing Boston 2017 in April as I qualified for it a second time when I ran my second marathon last November, Outer Banks in North Carolina.

I’m on a goal to run a marathon in every state, so I’m also going to throw in a Mississippi Marathon, the Mississippi River Marathon, in February. n