Hoover's Magazine October 2015

Taste of Hoover Sample some of the city’s best restaurants

Artistic Pallet Woman handcrafts decorative wood pieces

Local Brews

Enjoy craft beers at Moss Rock Festival October 2015 Hooversmagazine.com $4.95

Fast Track

Student athlete competes on international level

Tricks and Treats

Couple goes all out with Halloween decorations October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

1

presented by

$25

e tix advanc : include

+ g l as s ast in g t n ia g el s 1 3 oz B t card $20 in

beer garden

gif

A craft beer tasting hoover, al

mossrockfestival.com

#mossrockfest

HA LLOW MM

B R E W I N G

TSV

ILL

E, A

L

YE

ER HU

N

Pantone 1817 U

nature eco ideas art + design

moss rock festival 10 Nov The Preserve 7&8 Hoover, Al

Thanks to our sponsors

mossrockfestival.com #mossrockfest Art By Chiharu Roach ingh m

io

d

mo

u

m a

bir

featuring:

the preserve

November 7 - 8, 2015

nt

a in r

a

107.3 FM bhammountainradio.com

< LAKE > Joe Piper Inc. < RIVER > Alabama Baby & Child Magazine Alabama Environmental Council B-Metro Bell Media Birmingham Coca Cola Bottling Company CityVision - The Visitor’s Channel Hoover Public Library Over The Mountain Journal Saia Construction The J. Clyde WBHM Public Radio 90.3 < VILLAGE GREEN > Alabama Outdoors Golden Flake Royal Cup Vertical Solutions Media Weld for Birmingham < ECO SPONSORS > Eco Three My Green Birmingham Sentry Heating Air Conditioning Plumbing & Generators We’re Green Clean

HEALTHCARE LIKE NO OTHER. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen offers everything from fitness to outpatient surgery (coming soon!) and more to bring you medical*, wellness, and spa services in one integrated location. And now, we’re expanding our medical services – all part of our commitment to continue bringing you a new kind of healthcare.

ONE NINETEEN OneNineteen.com

*Provided by St. Vincent’s Birmingham hospital.

Fall Foods Picking a place to eat is always a hot topic of conversation in my household, as my husband can attest.

Hoover has so many tasty options, which can make it hard to narrow it down to just one. And there are new eateries opening up every month, adding to the decision dilemma.

But what if you could enjoy all of the food Hoover has to offer in one place? Aldridge Gardens will be hosting its Taste of Hoover this month with food and drinks from local restaurants and caterers.

You’ll be able to sample a variety of dishes and desserts, while also enjoying the garden space, live entertainment and good company.

The event will be Oct. 22, and you can read more about it on page 50.

With Halloween just around the corner, you can also satisfy your sweet tooth with a variety of treats — especially those of you who live in or visit the Carisbrooke

October 2015 Issue Copyright 2015 Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Questions or comments?

Call 669-3131 or email info@hooversmagazine.com

neighborhood. They go all out for the holiday, including resident Teresa Real.

She transforms the inside and outside of her home with festive lights and decorations, and she even serves homemade popcorn balls. You can see photos of her home and get her recipe on page 42.

There’s a lot more in this issue other than articles on food, though. You can also read about a woman who designs wood art, another who pampers pooches and a student who is representing Hoover on an international level.

The Hoover Fire Chief also answers my questions in Why I Love Hoover, and a couple shares their musical talents with students and us on page 8. You also get the first look at the Moss Rock Festival’s Beer Garden on page 14.

We’d love to share your story,

too, so email or reach out to me 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

Jamie Dawkins

Ashley Duckett

Molly Davidson

Katie McDowell

Layken Gibbs

Kari George

Lauren Dowdle

Mary Jo Eskridge

Robyn Holm

Daniel Holmes

Baker Ellis

Kristy Brown

Michele Hughes

Nicole Loggins

Jessa Pease

Emily Klein

Amanda Porter

Kim McCulla

Emily Sparacino

Laurel Cousins

Rhett McCreight

Neal Wagner

Hailey Dolbare

Meagan Mims April Spivey

Cover Photo By David McElroy 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. 520.

4

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

FEATURES 20

Artistic Pallet Hoover woman handcrafts decorative wooden pieces of art

24

Puppy Love Freek on a Leesh owner builds relationships with dogs and owners

42

Tricks and Treats Couple decorates home and goes all out for Halloween October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

5

inside

14

8

24 42

30

50 ARTS & CULTURE 8 Lyrical Lessons

HEALTH & BEAUTY 29 A Woman’s Caring Prescription Why you need to take the initiative with your health

Couple revives love for music in Hoover

14

Local Brews Taste craft beer and food during the Moss Rock Festival

FEATURES 20 Artistic Pallet

Hoover woman handcrafts decorative wooden pieces of art

24

6

RECREATION 30 Fast Track

Hoover athlete competes on an international level

EDUCATION 36 Snippets

Puppy Love Freek on a Leesh owner builds relationships with dogs and owners

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

What’s going on in Hoover education and beyond

AT HOME 42 Tricks and Treats

Couple decorates home and goes all out for Halloween

FOOD & DRINK 50 Taste of Hoover

Sample some of the city’s best restaurants at Aldridge Gardens

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Editor’s Note 12

Aldridge Gardens newsletter

19

The Book Nook

55

Hoover Area Chamber Connection

61

Spotted

77

Calendar

79

Classifieds

82

Why I Love Hoover

Located on Hwy 280, east of I-459 GrandviewHealth.com

arts & culture

Lyrical Lessons Couple revives love for music in Hoover WRITTEN BY AMY JONES PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

S

hane Nicholas is something of a Renaissance man when it comes to music.

Shane, who began playing guitar and saxophone while growing up in New Orleans, picked up bass, drums and piano while in college at Southeastern Bible College in Shelby County. He picked up the ukulele about five years ago and also plays banjo and mandolin. He’s also taken lessons on the cello and the bagpipes.

In other words, he’s the perfect guy to teach music, which he does at stickandstrum academy in Riverchase.

Shane and his wife, Shauna, opened stickandstrum in January 2014.

“It is only in the last few years that I have realized that my calling is truly as a teacher, not as a musician,” he 8

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

says. “I love teaching, and I love seeing that moment where everything clicks.

I have worked hard to take complex concepts in each instrument and break them down into small, easy-tomanage chunks so that students can jump into playing music immediately.”

At stickandstrum, teachers offer regularly scheduled instrument and voice lessons and group classes.

There are also clinics for those who want to learn more about particular instruments or musical topics, such as songwriting for beginners, chords for piano, four chord guitar and other subjects. They have a la carte lessons for those who want to try out new instruments before committing or for those who can’t commit to regular lessons. The academy offers lessons that aren’t yet showcased on

the stickandstrum website, such as songwriting, banjo, mandolin and folk-harp, Shane says.

They also offer introductory classes in guitar, drums and voice for students ages 5-8, and instructors are in the process of putting together early childhood classes for students ages 6 months to 5 years.

“I have never met an adult that said that they regret taking music lessons as a kid. I have never met an adult that said that they are glad their parents let them quit music lessons,” Shane says. “With a decreasing emphasis on the arts in schools, it has become important for us to step into that gap and show students and families how much fun and life-changing music can be.”

Shauna says she sees the impact

stickandstrum has on its students.

“It goes far beyond just music lessons.

Music is very therapeutic, can soothe you when you’re sad and pump you up when you’re excited, but the outlet that it gives students is what it’s really about,” she says.

“To see the moment when everything clicks and to see students thrive, it is very humbling and rewarding to be a part of something like that.”

Shane says he and Shauna chose to open stickandstrum in Hoover because of the convenience of the location.

“We not only have a lot of Hoover students, but families can easily get to us from Pelham, Helena, Alabaster and Inverness,” he says. “We even have students who have driven from Leeds and Chelsea.”

The location in Hoover has led to opportunities for students to play beyond the walls of stickandstrum. Students played

regular gigs at the Ross Bridge Farmer’s Market this past summer and at Ragtime Cafe, both located in Hoover.

Shane says he feels public performance is important to give students a goal beyond simply getting better at music.

“A few years into teaching, I noticed I was starting to lose intermediate students. They came in really excited about their instrument, but once they got to a certain point, they got bored and pursued other interests. I soon realized they needed a goal and an outlet for their talent,” he says. “We did annual recitals, but there is something different about an actual gig in front of real people that aren’t your friends and family. It adds validity to all of their hard work that they have been putting in when they can see complete strangers and paying customers enjoying their music. Once they have played their first gig, they are hooked.”

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Shane, Shauna and their son Josiah enjoy the family atmosphere they’ve created at stickandstrum. They offer lessons for all ages and a variety of instruments.

The students have the opportunity to perform gigs at location events and locations. Shauna loves seeing students thrive with music.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

9

ABOVE: Shane says he enjoys taking complex concepts and breaking them down for students.

10

Public playing is just another way stickandstrum works to be part of a larger community, while also functioning with its own sense of family.

“We are so much more than lessons. We are a community, a family. That phrase gets tossed around often, but we have a strong sense of community at stickandstrum. It is not unusual for teachers to come in hours early, stay late or come in on their off day just to hang out,” says Shane, who added that stickandstrum

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

has activities for families and small children to participate in while other family members are in lessons. “We want this to be a place where people can put down their phones and iPods for a while and just hang out together. I love seeing moms and dads drawing pictures and playing with their kids and seeing siblings playing together.”

Shauna says music can help change lives and the community.

“There are so many facets to what we do.

It’s educational. It’s therapeutic. It’s relational. There are no regrets,” she says. “Even if students decide to pursue something else, they still enjoy their time with us, and we enjoy our time with them.”

The academy has a small store that sells instruments and accessories, and Shane says they hope to add a small recording studio by the end of this year.

For more information on lessons and other services stickandstrum offers, visit stickandstrum.com or call 205200-6855.

They are located at 106 A David Green Road. n October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

11

New Things at Aldridge Gardens October is a fabulous month to visit the Gardens! When you come, be sure to notice the new sign out front with the raised stone planting bed at its base. Also note the new hanging baskets on the decorative pole lights inside the gates. And don’t forget to check out the latest items inside Roots gift shop, just in time for holiday shopping!

Taste of Hoover

more. Sample a variety of wines from Thursday, October 22, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. International Wines and Craft Beer while listening to live entertainment.

(Rain date October 29) Aldridge Gardens will be partnering $25 members/$35 non-members with the Hoover Sun, Hoover restaurants and our preferred caterers Enjoy an autumn evening with us to provide a culinary experience like no strolling through the Gardens and sampling delicious dishes from some of other. A limited number of tickets are Hoover’s best restaurants, caterers, and available. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Plan your party now!

Aldridge Gardens is the perfect place to hold your upcoming holiday parties.

Plan now to make your event special. Both indoor and outdoor venues are available at one of the most beautiful spots in the Birmingham area. Let us help plan your upcoming wedding, social or corporate event. For more information, contact abaker@ aldridgegardens.com or call 205.682.8019 ext. 103.

SUPPORT THE GARDENS There are numerous ways you can contribute to Aldridge Gardens. Becoming a member, from the basic $35 membership to the Propagator $1000 membership, will provide you with great benefits, including the satisfaction of supporting the growth of the Gardens. Become a Legacy Builder by remembering the Gardens in your estate planning. Participate in the Veterans Memorial Arbor project by purchasing a column, bench, flagpole or donating toward other parts of the arbor. We welcome donations in any amount. For complete information about donations, honorariums and memberships, visit aldridgegardens. com.

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

Creepy, Crawly Spiders of Alabama (Just in Time for Halloween) Tuesday, October 27 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

(Rain date: November 10) Members: Adult $12. Child $5. Family (parents or grandparents with children, $22) Non-Members: Adult $15. Child $7. Family (parents or grandparents with children, $28) Come join us for a spiderific evening for family or individuals, but not for the faint of heart! Dr. Drew Hataway from Samford University will discuss his experiences with spiders and will bring some interesting arachnids to view up close. Learn how to distinguish venomous from non-venomous spiders. Bring your flashlights for a fun-filled field trip after class in search of harmless wolf spiders on the grounds of Aldridge Gardens. Each child will receive a spider ring!

A Reminder: Whispers From the Past: A Native American Experience

Sunday, October 4, 10 a.m. – 6p.m.

(Rain date: October 11) Admission: $10 adults; $5 ages 2 – 17; Under 2 free.

Take a step back in time with Whispers From the Past and rediscover the contributions and culture of our Southeastern Indians.

In the Gallery: Don Stewart

Meet the Artist Reception: Thursday, October 8, 6 – 8 p.m.

Aldridge Gardens Propagators private reception with the artist: 5 - 6 p.m.

Come see the unique drawings of Alabama artist Don Stewart. As always, the works of our featured artist are for sale. Also be sure to see our display of Frank Fleming bronze sculptures. The Eddie and Kay Aldridge Art and Historical Collections Museum is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except when a special event is taking place inside the house.

MEMBERS ONLY TOURS Saturday, October 8 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

Members only Gardens Tour

Saturday October 15 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Members only Bird Walk

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

13

Local Brews

arts & culture

Taste craft beer and food during the 10th Moss Rock Festival WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTOS BY CONTRIBUTED

C

ombine the crisp fall weather, scenic views, rows of artwork, dessert tastings and local craft beer, and one thing will come to mind: Local never looked — or tasted — so good.

And Hoover residents can enjoy all of these things during the 10th Moss Rock Festival Nov. 7 and Nov. 8 at The Preserve in Hoover.

One part of the festival that has continued to grow each year is the Beer Garden, which features a variety of local craft beer samples and food. There will be three sessions during the Beer Garden, which are longer than last year: 12 to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 4 p.m. on Nov. 7 and 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 8.

The Beer Garden features breweries from across Alabama, and even ones from other states.

“It’s a very friendly atmosphere,” says Rob McDonald, Moss Rock Festival board member and Beer Garden co-chair. “It’s a fun, relaxed time and a family friendly 14

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

event. There’s nothing you can do that’s more fun on that day of the year.”

Each participating brewery will showcase two to three brews for patrons to taste, and there will also be food samples from cosponsors The J. Clyde and Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercado. Tickets are $25 in advance.

“If you haven’t experienced Moss Rock, you’ve got to,” says Eric Meyer, co-founder of Cahaba Brewing Company and a Hoover resident. “It’s one of the top events in Birmingham. You get to see the local artists, enjoy local craft beers and have a great day with the family.”

Everything really comes together to create a one-of-a-kind event, says Jerry Hartley, owner of The J. Clyde.

“It’s just a fabulous venue. The weather is nice, and it’s almost exclusively local flavor,” Hartley says. “It just feels like a beer garden.”

The event really showcases how much the local craft movement has grown in Hoover and surrounding cities. From June 2014 to June 2015, Birmingham saw more growth in craft beer sales than any other city in the country, according to a report from Nielsen.

The city’s craft beer sales (as a percentage of

Beer Garden Breweries 5 Points Brewing Birmingham

Railyard Brewing Company Montgomery

Avondale Brewing Company Birmingham

Straight to Ale Brewing Huntsville

Back Forty Beer Company Gadsden

The J. Clyde Birmingham

Blue Pants Brewing Company Huntsville

Trim Tab Brewing Company Birmingham

Carboy Junkies Birmingham

Supreme Beverage: Terrapin Brewing Company Athens, Ga. New Belgium Brewing Company Fort Collins, Colo.

Fairhope Brewing Company Fairhope

Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato Hoover

Good People Brewing Company Birmingham

Whole Foods Market Mountain Brook

Cahaba Brewing Company Birmingham

Ghost Train Brewing Company Birmingham

total volume) changed 63.1 percent during that time, which is more than double any other city.

“If you like craft beer, Birmingham is the place to be,” McDonald says.

People can enjoy this growing beer movement, while also taking in all of the festival’s artwork and other events.

“It allows people to see the craft beer as another local arts favorite,” Meyer says. “You get to have all of those things together at one big event.”

Several of the beers are brewed just a few miles away from the event, adding to the appeal and taste.

“We’ve already strived to put out a good quality product, and we want our community to be as proud of us as are about our beer,” says Michael Sellers, co-founder of Good People Brewing Company. “We’re excited about being a part of the Hoover event.”

There will be a variety of beers to sample, with a range of colors and flavors. When

Yellowhammer Brewing Company Huntsville

figuring out which ones to try, Sellers encourages attendees to not be intimidated by dark beers.

“The flavor might not be related to the color,” Sellers says. “Keep an open mind when sampling the beers.”

While attendees taste the beers, they can also talk with the people who brewed them, like Nick Hudson, a member of Carboy Junkies and president of Free the Hops.

“We really enjoy serving beer to people and explaining it to them,” says Hudson, a Hoover resident. “We get something back from the people to see if they like it or if there’s something maybe they don’t like about it.”

Several members of Carboy Junkies will be bringing brews to the Beer Garden. The group is a free homebrew club that has monthly meetings where they taste and give feedback on brews.

“A lot of these beers you can’t get anywhere else,” says Brianna Panos, co-owner of Vecchia. “You can sample awesome beers

ABOVE: Good People Brewing Company opened in 2008 and offers seasonal, occasional and other brews.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

15

From oil changes, alignments, and Alabama inspections to major repairs on your engine and drive train, our technicians will take care of your car, truck or SUV like it was their own.

$25.00 OFF ANY SERVICE OR REPAIR *Must spend over $50. Choose any service available in our dealership.

This exclusive offer not valid for insurance work, warranty, over the counter sales, other offers or service specials. Must be redeemed at one visit. Has no cash surrender value. Expires 11/15/15.

SERVICE HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 7AM-6PM SATURDAY 8AM-5PM (888) 693-9020

16

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

LEFT: The Beer Garden has grown every year.

RIGHT: Cahaba Brewing Company will have a variety of local brews for people to sample.

October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

17

and great food in a beautiful setting. A lot of people haven’t had a craft beer, let alone a local craft beer.”

The event gives patrons the chance to sample a lot of different beers without having to purchase them all. “It’s a really cool experience,” Panos says.

“We’re also saving a few surprises for the people who show up.”

But there’s more to the Beer Garden than local craft brews: There will also be several tasty dishes to sample.

The J. Clyde will bring a restaurantfavorite item: sauerkraut balls. They are filled with Italian sausage, cream cheese and rolled in panko crumbs before being deep-fried.

“They are amazing, and you can enjoy as many as you want,” Hartley says.

Vecchia will serve items like house-made meatballs in marinara sauce, white chocolate bread pudding and crème brulee. Vecchia will also have raffle prizes, giveaways and car test-

drives outside of the restaurant.

In addition to being a fun time to enjoy local brews and food, the entire festival is also a fundraiser to support environmental education.

“While we provide a great time at the Beer Garden, the main focus is to raise funds so we can teach kids how to maintain and have fun in the environment,” McDonald says.

The festival is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 7 and 10 a.m. to 4 — Rob McDonald p.m. Nov. 8, and they plan to have TVs to show football games. Parking and shuttles will be available at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

Tickets to the Beer Garden are $25 in advance and include a souvenir tasting glass and $10 gift certificates for both The J. Clyde and Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato. People can purchase tickets at Mossrockfestival.com, The J. Clyde and Vecchia. n

“If you like craft

beer, Birmingham is the place to be.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: People who buy tickets in advance will also receive a souvenir mug and gift certificates.

People can enjoy local craft beer samples while also talking with the people who brewed them. The J. Clyde will bring sauerkraut balls, which are stuffed with Italian sausage, cream cheese and rolled in panko crumbs before being deep-fried.

18

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

the book nook

Brewing in Birmingham Craft brewing is a fastgrowing trend in Alabama. Craft breweries are small, locally owned companies that produce beer on a much smaller scale than the national giants.

At last count, there were 19 craft brewers in Alabama, with more opening all of the time.

That may sound like a small number, but they are starting to Jason Brown become big business. In 2014, Nonfiction Librarian Alabama’s craft brewers produced Hoover Public Library 39,452 barrels with an economic impact of more than $238 million. Today, Birmingham’s best craft beers can be found in bars, restaurants and stores across the local area, right alongside the biggest national brands.

The Magic City’s oldest brewery is less than 10 years old, but if you think brewing in Birmingham is something new, you’re wrong. The city has a fascinating history of brewing which you can read about in author Carla Jean Whitley’s new book, “Birmingham Beer: A Heady History of Brewing in the Magic City,” published in July

by History Press.

Whitley will join us on Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. to discuss her new book with a signing to follow. As part of the event, we will also be offering free tastings from several of Birmingham’s top brewing companies, including Good People, Avondale, Cahaba and Trim Tab. Appropriate ID is required.

Whitley is a features writer for the Alabama Media Group, including AL.com and The Birmingham News, and is also a journalism teacher, literacy volunteer, avid yoga enthusiast and orange cat lover. Her previous book, “Muscle Shoals Sound Studio: How the Swampers Changed American Music,” was published in 2014

by History Press. “Birmingham Beer” is part of the American Palate series, showcasing the best in local food and drink.

Please join us for this exciting free event. Call 444-7840 or visit Hooverlibrary.org for more information. Reserve your copy of “Birmingham Beer” at the library today, or pick one up at your favorite local bookseller. n Jason Brown is the nonfiction librarian at the Hoover Public Library. Visit Hooverlibrary.org for more information.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

19

Artistic Pallet

20

â&#x20AC;˘ Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine | October 2015

Hoover woman handcrafts decorative wooden pieces WRITTEN BY AMY JONES PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

W

hen Jordan Cowie was in high school at Pelham High, she helped pump up the team and crowd at football games by making the signs that players broke through as they ran onto the field. Little did she know that she was honing a craft — calligraphy — that would eventually lead her to create her business.

In college at Alabama, Cowie used a wooden pallet to create a decorative piece with her initials on it to go over her bed. She posted a picture of the art on social media, and people responded asking for her to create pieces for them, as well.

“Word of mouth got out, and people started asking me to make other Pinterestinspired items, and it just grew from there,”

she says. “I started posting pictures of pieces I made for friends and family, and when strangers started contacting me, I knew this was something that could turn into a small hobby-business.”

Cowie, who named her business Wood Ya Look at That, says her most popular pieces are the monogram pallets, which can be anywhere from 2 to 4 feet in width and are usually hung over beds or on walls. Picture frames are also big sellers, she adds.

However, she doesn’t limit herself to just those types of pieces.

“I never turn down a challenge, so I have made all sorts of pieces,” says Cowie, who lives in Hoover. “I had someone ask if I could make a headboard, so I tried and succeeded. I have made door hangers of all

LEFT: Jordan Cowie creates wooden pieces of art through her business, Wood Ya Look at That.

ABOVE: She writes everything herself and never uses stencils.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

21

different shapes and sizes, wine racks, coffee mug racks, all different kinds of picture frames, abstract canvases and tons of pallet paintings with various quotes on them.”

To create her pieces, she uses various types of wood — new, antique or salvaged from old houses. From there, she cuts, sands, primes, builds and paints the pieces herself.

“Everything I paint is hand-painted and handwritten,” she says. “I have never used a stencil, so every piece is unique and different.”

Each piece takes time and focus, and Cowie says she won’t stand for imperfections.

22

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

“Depending on the piece, it can take anywhere from two hours to two days to complete a project. The part that takes me the longest is handwriting the words on pieces, so I tend to spend a little more time on items like that,” she says. “I am my biggest critic, so if I don’t like the way one letter looks, I will sand the whole piece down and start from square one.”

Despite all of the work that goes into each piece, Cowie’s pieces are always fairly priced.

“I paint because I love it, not for the money, so I price my items as low as I can without losing money. I have had

items priced at $5 before. Typically, the prices range from $10-$50,” she says.

“Everyone always tells me I deserve more than I charge, but my low prices keep my customers coming back for more.”

Even though Jordan’s business is booming, she’s trying to keep it small. That’s the only way she can balance her art, her job as a paralegal and law school, where she’s currently in her first year.

Customers can find her pieces online at her Etsy shop at Etsy.com/shop/ wooodyalookatthat (note the extra “o” in the shop name), on Facebook at Facebook.com/ woodyalookatthat or on Instagram at

@wood_ya_look_at_that.

Cowie’s art can also be found at Lily Magnolia, a new boutique at the Riverchase Galleria, or at The Boot in Preserve Village.

Although Cowie doesn’t have much extra time right now, she encourages any customer to let her know if he or she is interested in custom pieces, and she’ll do her best to make it happen.

Although her various commitments keep her busy, she isn’t interested in abandoning her art.

“I love what I do. I love making people’s Pinterest dreams into reality. I also love the challenge. I am up for anything,” she says. n

LEFT : To create her pieces, Cowie cuts, sands, primes and builds them before painting words or images. CENTER: All of her pieces are handpainted and handwritten.

ABOVE: She used the quote from Kathryn Stockett’s book, “The Help,” for one of her pieces.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

23

features

PUPPY

LOVE Freek on a Leesh owner builds relationships with dogs and owners

WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

H

er customers might be a little furrier and louder than most, but Samantha Higginbotham wouldn’t change anything

about it.

Previously in technology sales, Higginbotham decided to follow her passion and do something different. “I was fortunate enough to make that change in my life,” she says.

She opened Freek on a Leesh in December 2010 and offers self-service bathing, grooming and pet supplies. “I get to come to work and play with dogs all day,” she says.

The shop is located in the Publix shopping center on U.S. 31. “It was the best location,” 24

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

she says. “Everybody knows where Publix and Outback are, so I can easily tell them where we are.”

Beyond its location, something else people are sure to remember about Freek on a Leesh is its unique name. But the shop isn’t just a play on the Korn song — it’s actually named for one of Higginbotham’s dogs.

Higginbotham found a stray boxer in her neighborhood that had been neglected. “She was terrified of people and wouldn’t get close to any human. She was skin and bones,” says Higginbotham, who has lived in Hoover for about 15 years. “I did everything I could to make her one of my own, but she alluded every effort. She wasn’t having any part of it.”

This went on for several months until Higginbotham eventually made some progress with the stray, which she named Lulu.

Higginbotham started trying to train Lulu to be on a leash, and that became an adventure in itself.

“The first time I put a leash on her, she

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Turbo stays relaxed as Higginbotham grooms him. Samantha Higginbotham opened Freek on a Leesh Pet Bazaar in December 2010.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

25

freaked out and was uncontrollable,” she says.

“The next time I tried, she was a statue and wouldn’t move — she was just terrified of it.

So, her nickname became ‘Freak on a Leash.’”

Lulu ended up having five puppies, including one Higginbotham kept and still has today: Teeta.

“She taught me a lot about loyalty and learning to trust,” Higginbotham says. “It was amazing to watch her transition from CLOCKWISE FROM being totally on her own to being a part of the TOP LEFT: Customers family.” can shop for uniquely Sadly, Lulu died a few months before patterned leashes and collars. Pet lovers can find the store opened. But, the headstrong dog the perfect shirt. Freek on definitely left her mark on Higginbotham, a Leesh is located in the who raises money and awareness for rescue Publix shopping center animal groups as often as possible. off of U.S. 31.

26

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

She also has a rescue dog, Ellie Mae, who she got from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Shop visitors can even see Ellie Mae and Teeta on bath days. “My dogs are my kids,” she says.

While she says he knew she would enjoy working with pets, it’s been an added bonus to also build relationships with their owners and the community.

“It’s been really nice to get to know people and learn about their families — not just their pets,” Higginbotham says. “The success of this business has been the customers.

Those relationships have helped me not only professionally, but personally as well. It’s been very rewarding.

“I’ve learned so many things in this five-

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

27

“I treat them as my own,” she says. Dogs year journey,” she says. “It’s not at all what I won’t be locked away and left to bark. She expected — it’s been a wild ride for sure.” takes them out if they’ve been there for a But Higginbotham’s passion for her while, making them as comfortable as possible. business, customers and dogs isn’t the only Higginbotham starts grooming about 8 a.m. thing that sets Freek on a Leesh apart: The every day the shop’s open and tries to have shop also has a self-service facility. a four- to five-hour There are bathing turnaround time. tubs, shampoos, “I hope customers towels and anything tell others to check it else owners would out,” she says. “I want need to clean their them to say, ‘This is a pets. Customers can cool little place, and upgrade their pets’ bath with options I feel comfortable leaving my dogs like a nail trim, ear and pad wash, dental — Samantha Higginbotham there.’”

Animal lovers foam, flea shampoo can also find pet supplies like collars, leashes, and blueberry facial scrub.

“They don’t have to bring anything but the treats, toys, grooming products, pet clothes, gift items, food/water bowls and T-shirts for dogs, and they don’t have to clean up,” she themselves. says.

Freek on a Leesh is open Tuesday to She actually opened the shop to focus on the self-service aspect but soon found Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. Professional out people also wanted grooming services. grooming is by appointment.

Higginbotham now does all of the grooming For more information, visit Freekonaleesh. herself and offers everything from nail cutting to a full trim. com. n

“I get to come to work

and play with dogs all day.”

28

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

ABOVE: Pet owners can wash their furry friends in the self-service area in the back.

health & beauty

A Woman’s Caring Prescription Why you need to take the initiative with your health WRITTEN BY RUPA GOOLSBY PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

A

s a physician caring for women in all stages of life, I try to tell my patients what I’ve learned so far: Take care of yourself.

You need to take that initiative and get an annual checkup, exercise, learn to eat healthy or even get a spa treatment.

As October presents our veryvaluable pink ribbon breast health reminders, even women who do not yet need mammograms could use those ribbons as self-care reminders.

After all, when you care for yourself, you can better care for others.

I think self-care is especially easy at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. Some of the patients I see at OB/GYN Associates of Alabama’s office at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen pay the nominal fee to drop their children off at the childcare center before they see us. Others are fitness members and receive free childcare. Some patients choose to get their mammograms or other diagnostic services at One Nineteen.

Some patients follow my suggestion to work with a personal trainer in One Nineteen’s fitness area. Others participate in the fitness classes, or maybe take a daily swim.

Some women receive nutrition consults or attend a healthy cooking class. When I walk through the

building, I’m so happy to see women treating themselves at the spa, attending one of the medical seminars or even dropping off a prayer request in the lobby.

So, I have a message for women waiting for someone to tell them to care for themselves: Consider this your self-care prescription. Get your annual check-up, and follow your physician’s advice. Then, every time you see a

pink ribbon, consider that symbol your medical reminder to care for yourself.

To learn more about our full-range of “healthcare like no other” services, visit Onenineteen.com. n Rupa Goolsby, MD, is the OB/GYN at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen and Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s Obstetrics Healthcare Professional of the Year.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

29

recreation

Fast Track Hoover athlete competes on an international level WRITTEN BY AMY JONES PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

B

rittley Humphrey comes from a family of well-known athletes.

Her father, Bobby, was a stellar running back at the University of Alabama, and both of her older brothers, ABOVE: Brittley Maudrecus and Marlon, shone on the Humphrey came in gridiron. Meanwhile, her mother, Barbara, second place in the was a member of UAB’s first track team, and 100-meter hurdles at the 2015 IAAF World her older sister, Breona, runs track at UAB. Youth Championships in Columbia, South America. Also, Brittley’s little brother, Marion, is an 30

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

excellent athlete in his own right.

However, Brittley’s quickly putting her own claim on a share of her family’s fame.

In July, she raced her way to a secondplace finish in the 100-meter hurdles at an international competition, the 2015 Ninth IAAF World Youth Championships in Columbia, South America.

Brittley, who represented Team USA in the event, also set a personal record of

13.22 in the final — shattering her previous personal best by 0.19. “(This result was) amazing, a feeling I will never forget,” Brittley says. “At the beginning of the season, I would have thought all of this was impossible for me, but I trusted in God, and he made everything possible.”

She can add that silver medal to her other track honors, which include being named a six-time All-American in the New Balance Nationals meets and winning 11 state championships in track. She has won the state titles in the 60-meter hurdles, 100-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles every year since she was a freshman. She’s also won one state title for the indoor triple jump and one for the 4x100-meter relay during her Hoover career.

Brittley says she routinely trains for two or three hours a day, five or six days a week.

She keeps herself focused by setting tough personal goals.

“I know that I am nowhere close to where I want to be, and that is constantly on my mind,” she says. “It gets really hard, but the reward makes everything worth it.”

Fortunately for her, much of her schoolwork at Hoover High School is online, so she can easily work on it wherever she needs to be.

Brittley, who is currently a senior at Hoover High, has played basketball and cheered throughout high school. However, this year she’s choosing to focus her energy only on track and take that momentum to college.

She says her athletic goal right now is to “have a strong senior year and then college.” She hasn’t decided yet where she’ll attend college. She is seriously considering Clemson, LSU, Florida State and Alabama.

LEFT: Brittley has won states titles in the 60, 100 and 300-meter hurdles every year since she was a freshman. ABOVE: Brittley competes in the 100, 300 and 400-meter hurdles, as well as the 400-meter dash. PAGE 32: She stays focused by setting goals.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

31

“Running in big

meets is thrilling and always brings excitement.”

— Brittley Humphrey

32

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

Although she does come from an athletic family, she says she never felt pushed to be an athlete or to run track.

“My parents never introduced me to track — I started running in the elementary track meets my school had once a year,” says Brittley, who began her track career in the third grade. “My family is always supportive and gives me great advice.”

Although she’s following in the footsteps of her mother and older sister as a track athlete, she says that only inspires her.

“It’s great to have someone to look up to and to know that it is possible,” she says.

While Brittley competes in the 100-meter hurdles for Hoover High, she also competes in the 300-meter hurdles, the 400-meter hurdles and the 400-meter dash.

Brittley says she just loves the thrill of running on the big stage.

“I love running and competing. Running in big meets is thrilling and always brings excitement,” she says. “I love the different speeds and distances and how it calms my body and I feel at peace. Throughout the whole day my mind is busy, but when it’s time to practice, my mind is at peace.” n

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

33

CLEARANCE CENTERS

happening in hoover

April Bucki joins Riverchase Elementary April Bucki has been named assistant principal of Hoover’s Riverchase Elementary School.

In this role, Bucki will support principal Dr. Alice Turney in a variety of capacities and work with the school’s teachers, including April Bucki math and reading coaches.

“I am proud to be a part of Hoover City Schools and the opportunities the system provides for its administrators, teachers and students,” Bucki says.

The 2015-2016 school year will mark Bucki’s 21st year in education. Prior to Riverchase Elementary, she taught at Deer Valley Elementary for eight years and 12 years at Moody Elementary School.

“I am so excited for this opportunity to work with such an amazing school,” Bucki says. “I look forward to working with students and parents to build positive relationships in the community.”

Bucki received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from UAB and earned her National Board Teacher Certification in 2012. She and her husband, Jay, enjoy time with their families, pets and going to the beach.

36

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

LEGO brings landmarks to city The Riverchase Galleria hosted the LEGO Americana Roadshow from Aug. 22 to Sept. 7. The educational, free traveling installation includes LEGO replicas of some of our nation’s most beloved landmarks.

There are 10 one-of-a-kind, large-scale models of American landmarks made completely out of LEGO bricks. These include the U.S. Capitol Building, White

House, Supreme Court, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and Old North Church.

The LEGO displays took over the Galleria to entertain customers with stunning visuals and fun facts.

Children of all ages also got to build whatever their imaginations dreamed up in the LEGO brick play area.

Mike Royer reflects on new career stories across the state.

After 40 years in the television industry, “We still need good Mike Royer has seen it stories about every day all, both good and bad. people,” Royer says. “I met The former longtime people while doing those news anchor recalled stories that changed me and his days broadcasting in challenged me.”

Birmingham and discussed Royer encouraged those the importance of good news during an Aug. at the Hoover Chamber Mike Royer 20 Hoover Chamber of of Commerce luncheon to Commerce luncheon. make the best of each day Royer left NBC 13 in June after and look for the good stories.

40 years in the business, more than “I think once in a while… we need 35 of which he spent broadcasting in good stories to remind us there are a lot Birmingham. He produced “Spirit of really good people out there doing of Alabama” for 20 years, a weekly segment that focused on unique, good really, really good things,” Royer says.

happening in hoover

Jamie Smith joins two Hoover City Schools faculties Jamie Smith joins the Hoover City Schools family this school year in a unique role: assistant principal at two Hoover schools.

Smith will spend part of her day at Brock’s Gap Intermediate School and part of her day at Deer Valley Elementary School. Her roles will range from Extended Day Programs and teacher evaluations to professional development, discipline and supervision.

Smith comes to Hoover City Schools directly from Pelham City

Schools, where she served to elementary,” Smith as an assistant principal at says. “It’s an honor and a Pelham High School. She privilege to be a part of has also worked in school the Hoover community.” systems in Georgia and Smith holds degrees north Alabama, teaching from Jacksonville State 6-12 English, journalism, University, Columbus SAT Prep, computer State University, Troy applications, keyboarding University and Samford and technology.

University. She, along Jamie Smith “My administration with husband Greg and experience has taken me their son Jonah, enjoy family time, from high school to elementary movies and the beach. back to high school, and now back

Spain Park hires assistant principal

SPHS ranked among best high schools Spain Park High School received national recognition, ranking among the best public high schools in America.

U.S. News and World Report paired with social science research firm RTI International to produce the 2015 Best High Schools list, examining more than 21,000 schools across the country.

Schools were evaluated on two key factors: “That great high school must serve all of its students well, not just those who are college bound, and that it must be able to produce measurable academic

outcomes to show it is successfully educating its student body across a range of performance indicators,” the U.S. News and World Report methodology read.

According to U.S. News and World Report, the final list was compiled through a three-step process.

U.S. News and World Report awarded Spain Park a bronze-level medal, recognizing the school as one of the best public high schools in the country. Spain Park High School also ranked among the best public high schools in Alabama.

Josh Britnell has joined the Spain Park High School administrative team as assistant principal. He takes the position of Larry Giangrosso, who was appointed as the new principal of Spain Park High School earlier this year.

Josh Britnell Britnell comes to this new role directly from Shelby County Schools, where he served as an assistant principal at Chelsea High School.

Some of his responsibilities at Spain Park High School will include discipline, attendance, teacher evaluations and school safety. Prior to his administrative roles, Britnell taught math for eight years at Homewood High School and coached baseball and basketball, also at Homewood.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

37

happening in hoover

Bluff Park adds structure This past spring, Rep. Paul DeMarco presented the Bluff Park Elementary PTO with a $1,000 donation. The money was used to purchase and install a playground shade structure.

Vice Principal Crystal Littlejohn, PTO President Georgia Pearson and DeMarco enjoyed the newly installed structure.

Bice addresses faculty State Superintendent Dr. Tommy Bice was the surprise speaker at Simmons Middle School’s first faculty meeting of the year.

Bice addressed the faculty, staff and administrators, encouraging them to utilize the first few days of the school year by getting to know

their students, which he feels makes the most positive impact in the classroom.

SMS Principal Brian Cain organized the visit this summer because he knew Bice’s address would be a great way to begin the year.

GET TAILGATE READY AT Hendrick Hoover Chevrolet

2015 Silverado UP TO

$11,000 OFF! CHECK OUT OUR PRICES ON NEW SILVERADOS THIS MONTH!

855-Roll-Chevy | 1620 Montgomery Hwy * 2015 Silverado up to $11,000 off MSRP on select models. See dealer for details. Offer expires 10/31/15.

38

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

happening in hoover

Greystone expands fitness offerings Greystone Golf and Country Club members will have access to a more spacious fitness and wellness facility in September.

As part of an ongoing expansion project at Greystone, the new, 4,000-square-foot facility will feature a variety of fitness equipment, a group fitness room, separate male and female treatment rooms, an assortment of health products for sale and indoor and outdoor lounge areas.

The facility will include more than 20 pieces of cardio equipment with strength training and free weight machines, says Christy Thompson, fitness director.

The group fitness room will allow

nearly 40 classes to be offered each week, and it will be equipped with Fitness On Demand, a virtual fitness program with about 2,000 classes that can stream through a 55-inch television. Whenever a class isn’t taking place, groups or individuals can use the program on a first-come, first-served

basis.

Thompson says the facility will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to increase access to members. The facility will also have an onsite childcare center and services families can utilize while at the facility. The original fitness facility opened in May 2004.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

39

at home

42

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

TRICKS AND

TREATS Hoover couple goes all out for Halloween WRITTEN BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

A

LEFT: The decorations will cast a spell on everyone who visits the enchanting home.

long with its familyfriendly appeal, the Carisbrooke neighborhood off of Chapel Road is also known as a “must visit” for all Halloween enthusiasts.

Hundreds of children in costumes from all around come and trick-or-treat in the safety of streetlights and police protection.

There are hot dogs, snow cones, face painting, a pumpkin carving contest, candy and homemade treats on Halloween night. Everyone pitches in for the occasion, and most of the residents decorate their homes.

One couple that joins in on the Halloween festivities is Dr. Richard and Teresa Real.

The couple moved into the neighborhood 20 years ago and says it has been perfect for them.

“It was close to our business

and the schools and was a great neighborhood,” Teresa says.

The Reals own a local dentistry practice and have never looked back since settling down in the Hoover community. “One of the best things about living in Carisbrooke is it’s a small, friendly, safe neighborhood,” Teresa adds.

Like several of their neighbors, the Reals go all out for Halloween. They even have a dog named Casper.

“For me I have always loved to decorate for Christmas, Halloween and all of the holidays,” Teresa says. “The way I decorate has just evolved over the years. I started with decorating my front porch and door with lights and then branched out adding inflatables, as well as more lights.”

As her decorating has grown, October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

43

Teresa describes it as “over the top” and “just plain fun.”

“My style is eclectic and that goes for my decorations also. I want my decorations to be fun, inviting and not scary or intimidating,” she explains. No scary ghosts or goblins there. “I love children and their expressions of fun and excitement.”

Real says she started out decorating because she loved it and then discovered everyone else in the subdivision did too.

“I was told one time by a 16-year-old neighbor that when he sees my decorations up, he knows it’s Halloween,” Teresa says. “On Halloween, I cook chili, hamburgers and hot dogs and then I start baking and fix my famous popcorn balls. Family and friends come to party and trick-or-treat. Our four grandchildren, Jane Hollis, Owan, Hollis and William, and my niece and nephew, Finley and Jack, join in too and love all of the festivities.”

44

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

ABOVE: Teresa used elegant pumpkin decorations as the centerpieces on her kitchen table.

When she says she “goes all out,” she does just that inside and out. “I try to cover all surfaces,” Teresa says.

“I decorate inside my house and do big displays with inflatables on the outside. Two of my favorite indoor decorations are a lighted pumpkin and a witch shaker my mom probably bought at Woolworths, which was mine as a child.”

She also picks a theme each year for her indoor décor.

In the past, she has done witches and spiders. This year, her theme is decorative skulls, which can be seen throughout the house.

Every year, Teresa adds something new to her outdoor display, currently consisting of five inflatables and thousands of lights draped in the trees and bushes.

“My favorite is the eyeball lights, and the inflatable that I have had the longest is the ghost letters spelling October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

45

Corporate Event Space Call (205) 665-3535, ext. 1045 or email jwasyluka@americanvillage.org for rates, availability and reservations

AMERICAN VILLAGE

MONTEVALLO, ALABAMA 183-acre campus • AV/wi-fi • catering options • 30 minutes south of Birmingham WWW.AMERICANVILLAGE.ORG

46

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Even the place settings match the skull theme. The entire house is decorated for Halloween, including the dining room.

October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

47

CLOCKWISE FROM BELOW: Teresa Real, with her dog Casper, decorates the inside and outside of her home for Halloween each year. Their home is a must-visit for trick-or-treaters this Halloween. The dining room has a red, black and white color scheme with skull decorations. Her Halloween theme this year is skulls.

‘boo.’ The kids love this one,” she says.

Other decorations include a headless horseman inflatable that stands 6 feet tall. The horse’s head moves back and forth, and Teresa says he is a favorite.

Her newest additions are goblins coming out of a pumpkin illuminated by a black light.

In addition to all of Teresa’s decorations, Halloween in Carisbrooke wouldn’t be complete without her famous popcorn balls, which are a tribute to her mother.

“I am just like my mother on Halloween. She would start cooking and baking first thing in the morning. She had a recipe from The Better Homes and Gardens cookbook on popcorn balls. She would make them, and they were a hit growing up on Mountain Oaks Drive in Hoover,” she says.

“To this day, people still come up to me and say their childhood memory on Halloween was my mother’s popcorn balls. So, I make them in honor of her.”

From her decorations to the tasty popcorn balls, everyone who visits Teresa’s house this Halloween is sure to have a wickedly fun time. n 48

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

Teresa’s Popcorn Ball Recipe 20 cups popped popcorn 1 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups water I/2 tsp. salt 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. vinegar Place the popcorn on a large baking pan, and keep it hot in the oven at 325 degrees. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water, salt, corn syrup, vinegar and vanilla. Cook until it reaches 250 degrees, which is the hard-ball stage. Remove from the heat, and take the popcorn out of the oven. Pour the mixture slowly over the popcorn. Mix well to coat every kernel. When it is cool enough to handle, put butter on your hands, and shape the mixture into balls. The recipe makes 15 to 20 popcorn balls.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

49

food & drink

TASTE

OF HOOVER

Sample some of the city’s best restaurants WRITTEN AND PHOTOS BY LAUREN DOWDLE

H

oover is thriving, with new eateries continually popping up around town. With so many tasty choices, it can be difficult to make your way to all of the restaurants.

To help you enjoy all of the food the city has to offer — while enjoying a beautiful outdoor space — Aldridge Gardens is holding its fourth annual Taste of Hoover.

The event will be Oct. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m., and it costs $25 for Gardens’ members and $35 for non-members to attend.

“It’s a social event for groups and friends,” says Tynette Lynch, CEO of Aldridge Gardens. “They get to experience a variety of Hoover restaurants, while socializing and enjoying the gardens.”

There will be food and drink samples from a variety of restaurants and caterers, Lynch says. To add to the ambience, people can enjoy their food samples on white tablecloths under hanging lights.

“We think of it as a lawn and garden party,” she says. “The gardens are just so enjoyable in October. We hope to have a large turnout.”

They invite all of their preferred caterers 50

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

This will be the Fourth Annual Taste of Hoover.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

51

to the Taste of Hoover, including Full Moon Bar-BQue, Asian Rim, Iz Catering, Jim ‘N Nicks Bar-B-Q, The Happy Catering Company, Savoie Catering, Rx Catering, Gourmet Pantry Catering, Chef Clayton’s Catering, Five Star Event Catering and Kathy G’s.

The Gardens also invites the restaurants that participated last year to come back again, like Fried Green Tomato’s, Jubilee Joe’s, The Boot, Dale’s Southern Grill, Cedars Grille and Moe’s Original BBQ. Jeff State Culinary School will be doing cooking demonstrations, as well.

“I think it’s a little different than most taste events. At a lot of them, people just go through the line and don’t stay the evening,” Lynch says. “But we have it set up When: Oct. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. so beautifully like Where: Aldridge Gardens a big lawn party Cost: $25/members; $35/non-members * You can buy tickets online or at the gate. that people stay

What To Know

52

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

TOP: There will be entertainment from singers like Raquel Lily.

ABOVE: Restaurants and caterers will bring samples of some of their best dishes.

October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

53

and really enjoy it.”

Instead of spreading out the restaurants’ tables like they had in the past, they will have all of them in a more centralized location this year. They try to keep the fundraiser event to about 300 people each year, Lynch adds.

In addition to the tasty dishes and lush greenery, visitors will also see some new features on the grounds like a new fountain in front of the house, beautiful hanging baskets on the lamps and a new sign on Lorna Road.

54

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

“When people come in, they’ll see all of the new touches and additions,” Lynch says.

Livening up the event will be entertainers like Raquel Lily, RaquelLily.com. ABC 33/40, an event partner, will be broadcasting from the Taste of Hoover.

“It’s a great event for people to come, see the gardens in the evening and just relax,” Lynch says.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Aldridgegardens.com. n

ABOVE: They expect about 300 people to come to the event.

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

St. Vincent’s Health System to Sponsor October 15 Luncheon U.S. Representative Gary Palmer to speak Now Meeting at Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel Gary Palmer lives in Hoover and represents Alabama’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Mr. Palmer attended the University of Alabama and was the first person on either side of his family to attend college. In addition, he was a walkon member of the football team under legendary football coach Bear Bryant. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, he worked in the private sector for 12 years; including nine years with two major engineering construction companies, before involvement with Focus on the Family led him to start the Alabama Family Alliance. This later became the Alabama Policy Institute.

Palmer served as President of the Alabama Policy Institute for 24

years. During his tenure, 50 states. Today, State the Institute became Policy Network has 65 a full-spectrum public member organizations. policy organization that Palmer served engaged in virtually on four different all policy issues that state commissions affected Alabamians. on behalf of three It is considered the different Governors. premier conservative He was appointed to think-tank in Alabama. the Welfare Reform Palmer also was a Commission by founding member of Governor Fob James, the board of directors and served as an advisor Gary Palmer of the State Policy to Governor James’ Network, an umbrella Aerospace, Science and organization for various state-based Technology Task Force. He was think-tanks. He served on the State appointed to the Task Force to Policy Network board for six years, Strengthen Alabama Families by the last two as chairman. Leading Governor Bob Riley; and to the this broad coalition of policy thinkers Alabama Commission on Improving gave Palmer exposure and knowledge of policy problems that confront all See LUNCHEON on page 4

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine • 55 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Managing small business financials: Your pathway to success Small Business Owners, would you like to learn how to properly spend, manage credit, save and invest in your small business?

“Making smart financial choices — from using credit wisely to avoiding Bryce Thornton, fraud — is the best Hoover Public Library Business Department way to ensure you can meet your business’s financial goals,” says EVENT Damian J. Carson, DETAILS Small Business Program Manager for WHAT: Managing Operation HOPE. Small Business Financials: Your “We are going to Pathway to Success share these principles in our upcoming WHERE: Hoover program and we are Library excited to be joined

by Dan Lord from the WHEN: Monday, Oct. 26 from noon to Alabama Securities 1 p.m.

Commission.

On Monday, RESERVATIONS: October 26 from Call 444-7816 12 pm - 1 pm, the Hoover Library will host a Lunch and Learn Program entitled, “Managing Small Business Financials: Your Pathway to Success.” presented

by Operation HOPE and the Alabama Securities Commission. Lunch will be provided by Investments Protection Trust.

Seating is limited. Please call 444-7816 for reservations.

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

Coffee & Contacts Schedule Second Thursday of each month October 8, 2015 — Spectrum Reach (formerly Charter Media)

March 17, 2016 — Available November 12, 2015 — Benton Nissan of Hoover December 10, 2015 — Hendrick Chrysler-DodgeJeep-Ram

April 14, 2016 – Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel May to December 2016 - 2nd Thursdays Available

January 14, 2016 — Costco

Luncheon Sponsorships Third Thursday of each month NOW Meeting at Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel

October 15, 2015 — St. Vincent’s Health System November 19, 2015 — American Family Care

December 17, 2015 — America’s First Federal Credit Union January 21, 2016 — First Commercial Bank

Business After Hours Schedule Fourth Thursday of each month September 24, 2015 — Hoover Tactical Firearms October 22, 2015 — Joe’s Crab Shack November-December — none held January 28, 2016 — Ginsburg Dermatology Center

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015Connection Newsletter Hoover Area Chamber

56

February 11, 2016 — Available

February 25, 2016 — Neurogenx Nerve Center of Hoover March 24, 2016 — Available April 28, 2016 — Available May 26, 2016 – Inverness Country Club June through October 2016 — 4th Thursdays available

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Thursday, July 23, 2015 at the Neurogenx Nerve Center of Hoover, at 1849 Data Drive, Hoover 35244. Shown cutting the ribbon is Owner Paul Todd as James Martellini of Lansing, MI holds the bow. Between them are Paul’s family members, his wife Carolyn, with their son Daniel, his wife Leslie, and granddaughter Paisley Todd. They are joined by several friends and Chamber Ambassadors. Paul can be reached at (205) 549-4899 or paul@nncal.com. www.

NeurogenxNereveCenterAlabama.com

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Tuesday, July 28, 2015 at the new Covenant Classic School at 5390 Magnolia Trace in Hoover. Shown cutting the ribbon are (l-r) Mac Morrison, CEO John LaBreche, and Campus Director Matt Howard, as Building Supervisor Michelle Crocker holds the bow. They are joined by several staff associates, friends, and Hoover Chamber ambassadors. This Covenant Classic School can be reached at 733-5437 or michelle.crocker@ccslion.com

The overall winners of the 20th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament came from the Meyer Vacation Rentals Team of Dale Jones, Scott Sloan, Hank Winks and Dell Oswalt.

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.

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Friday, July 24 at Supercuts, 5250 Medford Drive, Suite 110, Hoover 35244, located in the new shopping center across from The Grove, along with Sprouts, McDonald’s, and the new Medical West Emergency Room. Shown cutting the ribbon is Owner Jeff Howard, as Manager Kathy Harmon holds the bow.

They are joined by several friends, associates, and Hoover Chamber Ambassadors. The lunch was catered by RX Catering, with some of the best food ever served at a ribbon cutting! Supercuts can be reached at 518-0920 or contact 20kathyharmon18@gmail.com for information.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Thursday, July 30, 2015 at Nova Essence Medispa, at 160 Main Street, Suite 200 (2nd floor in Patton Creek Shopping Center, across from Zoe’s Kitchen). Shown cutting the ribbon is Eric Atkins as Dr. Nova Law (co-owners) holds the bow. They are joined by several associates, Hoover Chamber ambassadors, and Hoover City Councilman John Lyda (back row). Nova Essence Medispa can be reached at 205-319-4445 or view their website at www.novaessencemedispa.com.

The Second Flight Winners of the 20th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament came from an independent team of Gaith Alkadi, GM of Hoover Country Club; Steve Korson, GM of Inverness Country Club; Gary Spencer; and Al Wolinski with a team score of 61.

Shown l-r are Al Wolinski, Committee Chair Kathleen Spencer, Steve Korson, and Gary Spencer. The Third Flight Winners of the 20th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament was the team from the State Farm Recruiting office of Shannon Trotter. The players were Braxton Wade, Anthony Berryman, Dan Hobby and Caleb Hopkins, with a team score of 63. Winners of the Closest-to-the-Pin awards on #6 was Phillip Underwood; and on #12 was Chuck Reynolds. Winners of the Straightest Drive awards on #7 was Barry Sullivan; and on #10 was Jason Barker. Each of these were awarded a $75.00 gift certificate to the Pro Shop at Riverchase Country Club.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine • 57 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Thank You, Board of Trustees

David Jackson Chick-fil-A www.chick-fil-a.com

Dr. John R. Phillips, III PT Orthodontics, P.C. www.ptortho.com

Deborah Stephens Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. www.behavioralhealthsystems. com

The Presidents Circle of the Board of Trustees Jerry Cross, Chairman, Jefferson County EIDA* Terri Q. Williams, AT&T Alabama* Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union* Lisa Worley, Anchor Insurance Agency* Dale Benton, Benton Nissan of Hoover 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* Gregg Maercker, First Commercial Bank Mark Garnett, HealthSpring of Alabama, Inc. Joel Smith, Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Dominic Buompastore, Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel

Henry King, King Acura Joe McGee, Legacy Community Federal Credit Union 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 Mike Murphy, 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. Ashley Robinett, Alabama Power Company Jabo Waggoner, Alabama Senate, District Sixteen Linda Cencula, Avadian Credit Union Steve Nix, AlaTrust Credit Union Jimese Harkley, America’s First Federal Credit Union Felicia Fortune, American Family Care Randy Johansen, American Family Care Rihan Jamil, BB&T Bank Jared Miller, BBVA Compass Bank Robert P. (Rob) Fowler, Balch & Bingham LLP Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. Ken Crow, Belk at Riverchase Galleria Patty Barron, P.E., Birmingham Water Works Leanne Messer, Brookdale Place University Park Robin Wilkins, Bryant Bank Bud Cason, Bud’s Best Cookies Ryan Blackenburg, C B & S Bank King Demontluzin, Chateau Vestavia Retirement Community David Jackson, Chick-Fil-A Mike Warren, Children’s of Alabama Bobby Haynes, Costco Wholesale Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation Earl Davis, Davis Likis Financial, LLC David Roberson, Drummond Company 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 Kenneth Smith, Golden Living 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 Teressa Eades, Homewood SuitesRiverchase Natalia Hawthorne, Hoover Tactical Firearms Richard Bishop, ITT Technical Institute Amy Strayer, Jason’s Deli Tony Cooper, Jimmie Hale Mission 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. Harryís 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 Dr. John R. Phillips, III, PT Orthodontics Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Thomas A. Martin, Riverchase Galleria

Andy Davis, St. Vincent’s Health System Leanne Graham, Sam’s Club Dr. Jack Schaeffer, Schaeffer Eye Centers Huck McElveen, Servpro of Birmingham Dwight Sandlin, Signature Homes Shannon Trotter, State Farm Insurance Recruiting Clarence ‘Brother’ Moss, Steak ‘N Shake Alain Gallet, Terracon Neal Harris, The Home DepotInverness Mark Hamilton, The Home DepotRiverchase Roberto Rodriguez, Trash Taxi Chris Breeding, The University of Phoenix Alice Johnson, Trinity Medical Center Mike Chandler, Walmart Neighborhood Market-Lorna Road Darin Boykin, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 150 Glenn Smith, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 280 Charles Waldrep, Waldrep Stewart & Kendrick, LLC Alison Lindsay, WIAT-42 News Ronald Jackson, Williams Scotsman Kevin Roberts, Windstream 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.

Luncheon: continued from page 1 State Government by Governor Robert Bentley.

In 2014, he was elected to the 114th Congress, having never served in office before. He and his wife Ann live in Hoover, Alabama where they attend Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama.

They have three children, Claire, Kathleen and Rob. We will also be announcing the nomination of officers and board

of directors for the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce for the 20152017 term of office immediately following this presentation.

To attend this Chamber Luncheon, please make your reservations no later than Monday, October 12, by calling 988-5672, or sending an email to lisa@hooverchamber. org. Networking begins at 11:15 a.m., with the meeting starting sharply at noon. The Luncheon is

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015Connection Newsletter Hoover Area Chamber

58

$20, or $22 at the door without prior reservations. Payment can be made by cash, check, or major credit card.

Cancellations are accepted until the morning of the luncheon, but those who make reservations and simply do not attend will be invoiced, since a meal will have been ordered for them at their request. The Hyatt Regency Birmingham-the Wynfrey Hotel is located at 1000 Riverchase Galleria, Hoover 35244. 205-987-1600.

Upcoming Events

October and November 2015 SEPTEMBER September 24 5:30 - 7 p.m. Business after Hours at Hoover Tactical Firearms, 1561 Montgomery Highway, Hoover 35216.

Contact Natalia Hawthorne at (205) 822-4600 or Natalia@ hoovertacticalfirearms.com. www.hoovertacticalfirearms.com OCTOBER October 1: 8:30 a.m. Economic Development Committee at Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome!

October 8 7:30 - 9 a.m. Coffee & Contacts at Spectrum Reach (formerly Charter Media), 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite 444, Birmingham 35243.

Contact Klaudia Thomas at klaudia.Thomas@charter. com or (205) 298-1688. www. spectrumReach.com

October 15 Hoover Chamber Luncheon at Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel. 11:15 a.m. Networking, Noon Luncheon. Please make reservations by Monday, October 12. 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 $22 without reservations.

Lisa@hooverchamber.org October 22 5:30 - 7 p.m. Business after Hours at Joe’s Crab Shack, 20 Meadow View Drive, Hoover 35242 (Inverness). Contact Rodney Newby at 205-9812999. www.joecrabshack.com NOVEMBER November 5: 8:30 a.m. Economic Development Committee at Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome!

November 12 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. Coffee & Contacts at Benton Nissan of Hoover, 1640 Montgomery Highway, Hoover 35216.

Contact Dale Benton at debeton@bentonnissan.com or (205) 979-5420. www. bentonnissanofhoover.com

November 18: 4:30 p.m.

Ambassadors Meeting at Chamber Office November 19 Hoover Chamber Luncheon at Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel. 11:15 a.m. Networking, Noon Luncheon. Please make reservations by Monday, November 16. 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 $22 without reservations.

Lisa@hooverchamber.org November 19: 5 p.m. Ribbon Cutting and 5-7 p.m. Open House at Trisha Lynn Farmers Insurance Agency, 1200 Corporate Drive, Suite 220, Birmingham, 35242.

Joint Ribbon Cutting with Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Contact Trisha Lynn at tdidelot@ farmersagent.com or 508-0380.

November 26-27: Happy Thanksgiving! Chamber Office closed.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine • 59 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors

Joe Thomas, Capstone Financial Group, 2015 President

Patty Barron, Birmingham Water Works

Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation, First Vice President

Paul Dangel Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel

Joel Smith, Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall, Second Vice President

Rihan Jamil, BB&T Bank

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

Kathleen Spencer, Spencer Consulting Group, Secretary

Reginald Jeter, Gregg Maercker, J.D. First Nationwide Commercial Mutual Insurance Bank

Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union, Immediate Past President

Jerome Morgan, Jr., Oncort Services

Ira Levine, CCIM, Levine & Associates

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 — August 2015 Bumper Nets Homer Brown, Owner - 987-2222

I Love Juice Bar Kimberley Rushton, Operating Partner - 326-5016

Champion Heating & Air Conditioning Wesley Dye, President - 988-3279 Inverness Country Club Steve Korson, General Manager - 991Elements Float Spa 8608 Victoria Robbins, Owner-Partner 518-0800 Lush Threading & Spa Naaz Dhanani, Owner - 444-7000 Eli’s Jerusalem Grill Eli & Laurel Markshtien, Owners On Tap Café 637-4658 Upgrade to Board of Trustees Todd Beegle - 988-5558 Fit People Taylor May, Owner- 518-6355 PT Orthodontics, PC Upgrade to Board of Trustees Jeanine Hanson- 979-9480 Greystone Golf Club David Porter, GM/COO - 986-5146

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015Connection Newsletter Hoover Area Chamber

60

Rittenhouse Senior Living of Hoover Viki Mullins, Marketing Director - 8232393 SecureMyne, Inc. Christof Brummerhoff, COO, CMO 790-0392 Smoothie King Brett Lawson, Owner - 504-231-6087 Subway - Galleria Raj Dhanani, Owner - 444-4144 Webb Payroll Devin Evrett - 631-3614

SPOTTED Inverness Country Club Music on the Terrace

Members of Inverness Country Club beat the heat with food and drinks inside the clubhouse and live music on the terrace during the club’s regular Music on the Terrace event on July 24. (Photos By Molly Davidson) Beverly and Richard Phillips

Liz Bishop and Kathy Ranelli

Bill and Ercelle Burrus with Ann Hoffmann and Aneda and Dronnie Chandler

Sam Dayhood and Karen Franklin

Gary and Liz Bishop with Kathy and J.C. Ranelli

Wayne and Neva Harmon

The Nagy family: Lena, Fran, Tim and Jessica

Dori Syx and Mike Clark October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

61

SPOTTED

National Night Out Hoover residents joined the city’s police and fire departments for National Night Out on Aug. 4 at the SuperTarget at the Grove.

(Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Riley and Andrew McGuire

Heather Watkins and Courtney Underwood

Virginia Branson and Joe Roca

Jack and Catherine Rice

62

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

Trent Hamner, Andrew Shelton and Kennan Gawlowicz

Sandra Caldwell, Natalie Shannon and Jennifer Glascock

Lee Love and Kevin Lawson

Shanna Housh and Jeremy Hodges

Rekha and Joseph Drwiega

Justin McKenzie and Corey Livingston

David and Sue Cohen

Paulette Dibenedetto and Rachel Castille

Heather Nelson, dog Matthew and Patrick Wilkerson.

Amber and Dana Reese

Radhika Patel and Hannah Soni October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

63

SPOTTED

Groove on the Green Greystone Golf & Country Club held Groove on the Green on July 25 with concerts and food. (Photos Contributed)

Laura and Jeff Tomko

Anna Shinn, Scott Stone and Shannon Patterson

Mary and Brad Rankin

Julie Kim and Anita DeStefanis

64

â&#x20AC;˘ Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine | October 2015

Mary Madison Hiers and Marilyn Steed

Jeff Clifton, Lisa Clifton, Mary Annakin and Andy Annakin

Ann and Steve Vanderburg

Lauren and Ryan Jackson

Katrina Sanderson and Vickie Brewer

Mary Madison Hiers and Ashley Fuentes

Sara McKay and Jenny Kimel

Jessica Shaw and Riley Hiers

Andy Gray and Annette Trible

Eric Knouse, Frank Paduch, Kim Paduch and George Zaharias

Nila Wren and Mark Blackburn

Chip and Marianne Prime

thesalon5.com October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

65

Monte D’Oro Social

SPOTTED

The Monte D’Oro neighborhood held an ice cream social for residents on Aug. 22. (Photos

by Heather Jones Skaggs)

Sloan and Jack Crawford

Rachel Steed with Kailyn and Paige Meyer

Richelle, Emery and Andy Golden

Frances Thompson

Shirley Zimerman with Gracy

YOUR

COMMUNITY.

YOUR

YOUR STORIES. MAGAZINE.

Subscribe today TO RECEIVE A COPY IN YOUR MAILBOX MONTHLY !

• • • •

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.

66

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

Kim True, Alice Hope and Eileen Lewis

Caleb Ivey, Ryan Walker and Coleman Ivey

Mickey Lewis

Alice Hope and Eileen Lewis

Akilah Williams and Teresa Houlditch October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

67

Connecting the Dots

SPOTTED

The South Shelby Chamber of Commerce held a women’s only networking luncheon, “Connecting the Dots,” with guest speaker Comedienne Joy on Aug. 27.

(Photos by Emily Sparacino) Elizabeth Jackson, Ashley Thomas and Kara Weis

Amanda Windsor and Cheryl Harper

68

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

Barbara Zieba, Elise Hearn and Mary Norsworthy

Dawn Carden and Lisa Berry

Lisa Nichols and Jacqueline Gardner

April Stone and Dora Montgomery

Lisa Phillips, Chrisie Hawkins and Vicki Everett

Comedienne Joy, Amanda Windsor and Marcella Baker

Alison Richardson and Lisa Phillips October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

69

Flip Flop Shops

SPOTTED

The Flip Flop Shops held a ribbon cutting for its store in the Riverchase Galleria on Aug. 27. (Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Terry Preston and Trisston Wright Burrows

Regina Smith, Mary Perry, Lisa Dunbar, Claire Davis and April Deluca

Stacy Clayton and Jonathan Lancaster

Bill Powell and Steve Hart

70

â&#x20AC;˘ Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine | October 2015

Andy Tatum and Ryan Blackenburg

Jonathan Lancaster and John Lyda

David Lecompte and Michael Ray

Trisston Wright Burrows and Mary Perry

Riverchase Garden Riverchase Elementary School held a ribbon cutting for its garden space on Aug. 28 with help from the Hoover Beautification Board, community members and students. (Photos

by Lauren Dowdle) Alice Turney, Kathy Murphy, Derrick Murphy and Joe Rives

Mary Ross Searcy and Lea Pennington

Lynne Cooper and Jennifer Rich

Woody Shin

John Lyda and Alice Turney

October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

71

SPOTTED

Bring Your Sticks to the Stone Greystone Golf & Country Club held its 10th Annual Bring Your Sticks to the Stone on Aug. 15.

(Photos Contributed)

Robert Fuentes, Clint Calvert and Avery Owens

Scott Ferguson and Bracton Thoma

Phillip Lozito, Hale Nelson and Gracson Morris

Eric Jostsons, Jeff Clifton, David Gronek and Roy Jackson Sewell

Sa

fe l

yR

etu

rnin

Dave Porter and Frank Paduch

g Yo

u to Pr oductivity

Sports Medicine and Spine Center Testing, Surgery & Rehabilitation all conveniently located in your neighborhood.

Call 205-985-4111 today to schedule your appointment. www.SouthlakeOrthopaedics.com

72

â&#x20AC;˘ Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine | October 2015

Joel Foshee and Tony Jones

Chris and Steve Kahn

William Hedden and Patrick Ward

Randy Beckham and Christopher Schaffer

Richard Coe and Rod Folmar October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

73

SPOTTED

Hoover Chamber of Commerce luncheon The Hoover business community gathered for Hoover Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon meeting on Aug. 20. (Photos by Molly Davidson)

Cindy Edmunds and Pam Koehler

Verona Petite, Sonya Ellis and Sylinda Daniel

Raj and Naaz Dhanani with Traci Fox

Leah Eagle and Tamie Boychuck

74

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

AshLeigh Meyer, April DeLuca and Peter Northcott

Peter Northcott, Larry Allred and Jerry Nesseler

Hannah Zander, Claire Davis, Jinnie Lacey and Leslie Barr

Larry Moore and Andy Tatum

Matt Whaley and Alisha Stephens

Mandy Pilgreen and Kathy Hollis

Debbie Burtnett and Carolyn Kolar

Peter Northcott, Katrina Lovett, Eric Chambers and Evelyn McSwain

Marlene Paumen and Jared Yarchak October 2015 | Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine â&#x20AC;˘

75

SPOTTED

Covenant Classic School The Covenant Classic School, along with members of the Hoover Chamber of Commerce, held a ribbon cutting on July 28. (Photos

by Lauren Dowdle)

Trisston Wright Burrows and Pam Koehler

Megan Champion, Casey Halsey and Claire Davis

Ira Levine and Drew Phillips

Harry Horner and Michael Pepper

76

â&#x20AC;˘ Hooverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine | October 2015

Peter Northcott and Lynn Ray

Kristen, Fulton and Matt Howard

Erin Colbaugh and Brittany Toole

John LaBreche, Julia Hays, Jennifer Calhoun and Michael Janowiak

Oct. 1 Hoover vs.

Spain Park •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

Hoover High School will play Spain Park High School in football at 7 p.m. at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

Oct. 3 Bluff Park Art Show •Bluff Park Community Center•

The Bluff Park Art Show will hold its annual event on Oct. 3. The show has grown from 65 artists to more than 150 and attracts more than 40,000 people each year.

Proceeds from the show go toward improving the arts in the greater Birmingham area. Artists will display their work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in front of the Bluff Park Community Center, located at 517 Cloudland Drive.

In addition to art, they will have several food vendors scattered throughout the park. Children ages 3 to 8 can be entertained with the hands-on art activities.

High school jazz bands will provide music. Admission to the show is free.

There is no parking at

CALENDAR

the site. Free parking and shuttle buses are available at the Bluff Park United Methodist Church, Shades Mountain Independent Church, Shades Mountain Plaza, Bluff Park Village Shopping Center and Shades Crest Baptist Church. Follow the signs from I-65 at Alford Avenue and Tyler Road. Carts will be provided to those who make purchases to transport items to cars.

Flavor Run •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

The Flavor Run will take place on Oct. 3 at 10 a.m. at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. The family fun 5K run supports local communities and businesses through a unique experience that engages all of the senses: sight, smell, touch, hearing and taste, with fruit-flavored powder.

Oct. 4 Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: Poland •Hoover Public Library•

Coffee-ol-ogy Cafe presents free programs on food and coffee from around the world.

The group

Hoover vs. Spain Park

will explore Polish cuisine on Oct. 4 at 2:30 p.m.

Complimentary samples provided.

Oct. 6 HCS Middle School XC Championships •Veterans Park•

Hoover City Schools Middle School XC Championships will be held on Oct. 6 at Veterans Park.

Oct. 9 Hoover vs.

Tuscaloosa County •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

Hoover High School will play Tuscaloosa County High School in football at 7 p.m. at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

Spain Park vs.

Vestavia Hills •Spain Park High School•

Spain Park High School will play Vestavia Hills High School in football on Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. at SPHS.

Oct. 10 Fall Community Showcase: A Home Buyer’s Event •Hoover, Ala.•

The Fall Community Showcase is a new home community tour, highlighting features from swimming pools and neighborhood parks to clubhouses and golf courses. In addition to visiting the communities, guests will

enjoy seeing the alluring new homes open during the two-weekend event. The showcase will be Oct. 10 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Oct. 11 and 18 from 1 to 6 p.m.

Oct. 16 Pig Iron BBQ Challenge •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

The 19th Annual Pig Iron BBQ Challenge will be at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium’s RV Park from 5 to 8 p.m. Teams compete to see who can make the best barbecue meat and sauce, and attendees can taste their dishes, while also enjoying other fun activities. There is a charge for admission, and the proceeds benefit Children’s Harbor.

Oct. 17 Hoover Invitational Marching Festival •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

The 2015 Hoover Invitational Marching Festival will be held on Oct. 17 at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

Oct. 20 Lunch and Learn •Hoover Senior Center•

Lunch and Learn will be held at the Hoover Senior Center on Oct. 20 at noon.

Oct. 22 Taste of Hoover •Aldridge Gardens•

Taste of Hoover celebrates the variety of culinary styles found throughout

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

77

the city. Enjoy an autumn evening strolling through the Gardens and sampling delicious dishes from some of Hoover’s best restaurants, caterers and more. Taste international wines and local beers while listening to live entertainment throughout the evening. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for non-members.

Only a limited number of tickets are available. Free admission to the Gardens will not be available during the event. The rain date is Oct. 29.

Hoover High School Cross Country Invitational •Veterans Park•

The Hoover High School Cross Country Invitational will be held on Oct. 22 at Veterans Park.

Oct. 23 Spain Park vs.

Mountain Brook •Spain Park High School•

YOUR

COMMUNITY.

YOUR

YOUR STORIES. MAGAZINE.

Subscribe today TO RECEIVE A COPY IN YOUR MAILBOX MONTHLY !

• • • •

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

Spain Park High School will play Mountain Brook High School in football on Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. at SPHS.

Hoover vs. Hewitt •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

Hoover High School will play Hewitt in football on Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

Oct. 25 ParentChat: Keeping Kids Safe Online •Hunter Street Baptist Church•

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

78

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

ParentChat: Keeping Kids Safe Online is a free event for parents at Hunter Street Baptist Church on

Oct. 25 at 6 p.m. With a focus on social media and online safety for kids and teens, ParentChat will equip parents to better grasp the dangers of the online world and how to develop a healthy use of those platforms.

More information and a registration link can be found at Hunterstreet.org/ parentchat.

Oct. 27 Horizons Luncheon •Hoover Senior Center•

The Horizons Luncheon will be held on Oct. 27 at the Hoover Senior Center at 11 a.m.

Oct. 29 Hoover Hayride and Family Night

A Hoover Hayride and Family Night will take place on Oct. 29 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Veterans Park.

Oct. 30 Hoover vs. North Marion (Fla.) •Hoover Metropolitan Stadium•

Hoover High School will play North Marion (Fla.) in football on Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

SPHS vs.

Bessemer City •Spain Park High School•

Spain Park High School will play Bessemer City High School in football at 7 p.m. at SPHS.

Halloween Costume Party •Hoover Senior Center•

A Halloween Costume Party will be held on Oct. 30 at the Hoover Senior Center at 12:30 p.m. n

Marketplace Hoover’s Magazine • 205.669.3131

WATERPROOFING! Wet & leaking crawlspaces or basement? We’ll repair!

Caulking, french drains, kill mold & mildew, grates installed.

24/7 service in most areas. Lic/ Ins CALL 205.230.8197, Tim

RNs Alacare Home Health & Hospice is hiring Registered Nurses for the Clanton area.

Join Alabama’s Elite Agency – family owned since 1970! EOE Apply on-line www.alacare.com

Rogers Cartage Company is looking for Dry-Bulk Lime and Cement Drivers for our Terminal in Alabaster, AL. Call Brian 800-507-8848 www.tankstar.com

All About The Kids Wedding gown and formal dresses, short and long; cut glass, vases and dishes; Pfaltzgraff 10-place setting- tea rose pattern.

Hwy 31- 1 mile North of Thorsby on Right 205-646-2880

***Now Hiring*** Now accepting applications at all terminal locations • Paid Time Off/Holidays • Rewards and Recognition Programs • Retirement Plan/Company Match • Personal Benefits/ Health/Dental/Vision Insurance. floridarockandtanklines.com ACCEPTANCE LOAN COMPANY Personal Loans!

Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans!

Come by Acceptance Loan and apply for a loan today.

224 Cahaba Valley Rd Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-5821 Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record.

800-338-2717 JOBS IN ALABAMA!!

AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment, screening & training services. Visit www.aidt.edu/jobs for latest jobs & training!

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions affecting 53 million adults and 300,000 children. www.arthritis.org

American Proteins, Inc. Hiring Drivers Home Daily, Great benefits package (including: health/ dental/ vision insurance), paid vacation and holidays, quarterly safety bonus, 401K retirement plan. Need Class A CDL with tanker endorsement, one year verifiable driving experience.

Contact Jamie Sewell at 256-970-6133 or Ronnie Demonia 256-970-6109 EOE NEED HELP FINDING A JOB? Asbury Career Transition Ministry (ACT) can help at no cost. Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays 6:30. Contact Tom Owens, Director: t_m_owens@bellsouth.net AS SEEN ON HGTV’s “Tiny Houses” Rustic cottages that you can put anywhere!

Visit Atkinson Homes in Childersburg, AL- across from Cadence Bank 256-378-1201 Bama Concrete Hiring Mixer Drivers • Local deliveries.

Class-B+ CDL, 2yrs MINIMUM heavy haul experience/ CleanMVR. Competitive Pay/ Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87, Alabaster, 35007

classifieds

HooversMagazine.com

Foster a Dog...Save a Life!

Bama Bully Rescue www.BamaBully.org Bama Concrete Birmingham is looking for a QC Manager.

Must have knowledge of concrete, aggregates, mix design characteristics & performance, good math, communication & organizational skills a must.

We offer competitive pay, BCBS, supplemental insurance, company vehicle, 401K, paid holidays, vacation and sick time.

Apply in person at any of our locations: 2180 Hwy 87, Alabaster 35007, 6500 Amber Hills Rd, Irondale 35173 Or 1088 Vulcan Dr, Bessemer 35022 Beelman is Now Hiring!

Diesel Mechanic Needed for Our Montevallo Terminal. Call Glen Madsen @ 205-665-5507 or email resume to: jobs@beelman.com Bibb Medical Center • LPN’s and RN’s BMC Nursing Home • CNA and LPN’s All shifts: PT & FT positions available Contact HR: bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter.com Apply Online at: bibbmedicalcenter.com Bridge Lessons Learn New Tricks. Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club 144 Business Center Drive, Birmingham, AL 35244 205-560-0706 www.bridgewebs.com/ birmingham Beginner and Refresher Lessons.

American Contract Bridge League

Journeymen Electricians, $24 per hour plus insurance.

Helpers $9.60 to $19.20 per hour depending on experience.

Greater Birmingham area. Call 205-849-5522 for details.

From drivers to logistics and operations to maintenance and driver relationships, at Boyd Bros., its more than just a job.

Come check us out! www.boydbros.com CDL Skills & Test Training, LLC Day & Evening Classes Hoover/Pelham Area 205-253-5960 • cdlskillstesting.com CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda $1.35 per square yard Meyers Zoysia $2.50 per square yard Empire Zoysia $3.00 per square yard. Delivery available 662-365-3152 www.caglesod.com PT Driver for Dry Cleaner Delivery. Salary + commission, Five days, 25 hours/week Call Billy: 205-602-3842.

Class A CDL Drivers needed for Birmingham Coca-Cola and Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Companies. Driving experience is required. Apply in person at: 4600 East Lake Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35217 Columbiana Health and Rehabilitation, LLC is hiring for the following positions • LPN Charge Nurse • Certified Nursing Assistant • Housekeeping Assistant, Part time. Interested applicants should apply in person to: 22969 Hwy 25, Columbiana, AL. Resumes may also be sent to: shannon.bell@ northporthealth.com

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 Cook’s Pest Control Now Hiring Salespeople, Pest Technicians, Termite Technicians.

Apply in person at 5224 Caldwell Mill Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242 or online at www.cookspest.com.

NOW HIRING! Warehouse Workers, Forklift Drivers, Loaders, Unloaders and Labelers. Please apply in person at: 3536 Hwy 31 • Calera, AL 35040 Premier Staffing Solutions Drivers Wanted: Class A CDLHome Daily, Full & Part-time.

Childersburg area.

256-591-3169 or 256-892-7692 LET DAWSON LANDSCAPE GROUP GET YOUR LAWN & PATIO READY FOR THE UPCOMING GAME DAY PARTIES”! 15% Discount! Custom Outdoor lighting, Firepits, irrigation, weed control packages. dawsonlandscapegroup.com.

205-532-9793 $5,000 RN Sign-On Bonus For More Information Contact Annie.Miller @dchsystem.com Apply online at: www.dchsystem.com TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing.

800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

79

Dunn Building Company has an immediate opening for a CDL driver. Mechanic skills are a plus! Class A CDL required along with current long form physical and medical card. Must be willing to travel.

Drug test will be administered before employment. Benefits include BCBS medical/dental insurance, Aetna Life/Disability insurance, 401k, vacation and holidays. Apply by visiting: dunnbuildingcompany. com and download an application, send to kroberson@ dunnbuildingcompany.com or fax 205-510-0301.EOE M/F/ Disabled/Veteran GENERAL DRYWALL WORKERS NEEDED Experience Preferred But Not Required.

Drug and Background Check Required. Apply In Person: 150 Princeton Lane • Jemison, AL 35085 NOW HIRING IN SHELBY, CHILTON, AUTAUGA, AND ELMORE COUNTIES! Community Action Agency of Central Alabama Head Start/ Early Head Start. Email resumes: ajohns@eacac.com Welder Training Short Term Licensing Call for Detail 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com $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.

Evergreen Transport, LLC has an immediate opening for Day & Night Shift Class B Diesel Mechanics at its terminal in Calera, Alabama. Job duties include repairing, maintaining and overhauling of heavy duty fleet truck/trailers. If interested, please contact Shane Jones @ 205-668-3316 or apply in person @ 8278 Hwy 25 South in Calera, AL.

80

F&M MAFCO is seeking a Mechanic to trouble shoot, repair and service rental equipment to include electrical/ hydraulic/pneumatic tools at our Pelham, AL facility. Some mechanical skills/experience required. EOE/M/F/V/D E-mail: hremployment@fmmafco.com Fax: (513) 202-8820 NOW HIRING Housekeeping/Janitorial In Alabaster Area. Apply Now at First Choice Personnel, 7001 Crestwood Blvd, Suite 118, Birmingham, AL 35201 205-510-3100 www.fcpersonnel.com Flawless Mobile Detailing All Cars: $55 ($100 value) Trucks/Vans/SUVs: $65 for The Works Wash & Wax ($110 Value) FLEETS (buses/cargo vans/semis): $125/vehicle ($200 Value) 205-230-1227 Commercial Driver Positions Available for Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia locations. 2-years commercial driving experience and clean 3-year MVR required. Benefits included! Home at night! Apply online: www.foleyproducts.com Or On-Site: 1091 Scott Dr. Clanton, AL Clanton First United Methodist PT Kitchen Coordinator. Wed Suppers, Sun Breakfast, & Special Meals.

Please apply at 207 8th St. No, Clanton M-F 8-4:30, closed at lunch Experienced Mechanic Familiar w/all types of vehicle repair. Verification of experience required. Excellent starting salary/competitive benefits. Appointments only.

Call: 205-458-7318 EOE/M/F/ D/V Drug free workplace.

ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnlineAuctions.com 205-326-0833 Granger, Thagard & Assoc.

Jack F. Granger #873 Real Estate Auctions ~ John Dixon & Associates www.johndixon.com

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

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 Hernandez Remodeling, Construction & More Remodeling, Painting (Interior/ Exterior), Roofing, Brickwork, Hardwood Floor, Carpet, Sunrooms, Decks/Porches/Stairs, Electrical, & New Construction.

References Available. Licensed/ Fully Insured. 205-837-2198 www.hernandezcompany.info hernandezcompany.info@gmail. com J&M Tank Lines, Inc CDL-A Drivers Needed for Local and OTR $3,000 Sign On Bonus www.jmtank.com Call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933.

Tree Climber / Bucket Operator Top pay guaranteed.

5 yrs exp. CDL required. Drug Test Required. 205-836-2038 or 205-229-7144 Truck Driver / Debris Loader Operator. CDL Required. Full or Part Time. Drug Test Required.

205-836-2038 or 205-229-7144 Immediate-Opening: Class A or B CDL-drivers. Must have 2-3 years’ experience, ability to work nights, days- some out-of-town travel. Tri-axle dump experience preferred.

Home weekends when working out-of-state. Clean criminal background/good driving record required. For more details: 205755-7264 Or Apply-in-person: Lake Mitchell Construction Others buy Gold, We buy Jewelry! 205-251-3381 Downtown Birmingham www.levysfinejewelry.com Lil Angels Learning Center Enrollment for ages 3 weeks to 12 years! Meals & Transportation to Most Local

Schools included in 1 Low Price!

200 Ridge Dr., Pelham 205-663-1852 APPLY NOW!!

LYONS HR IS HIRING • Production Workers • Grinders • Forklift Operators • Maintenance Techs Call 205-943-4820 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 Service Technician • Top Pay, Benefits & Commission! Apply in person: Mainline Heating & Air 400 Hillwood Park S. Alabaster (205) 664-4751 Stainless Fab Shop in need of TIG welder with experience in welding and finishing stainless equipment.

Driver’s License Required.

Call M-Th 8-4:30 205-945-9654 McDonald’s is Now Hiring in Chelsea, Pelham & Alabaster!

Apply at www.mcalabama.com GUITAR INSTRUCTION If you possess an impassioned desire to study the guitar, I can develop your skills to levels exceeding your expectations.

Michael Shaw 205-670-5020 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 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 THE MORTGAGE OUTLET, INC. •Offering Purchase/Refinances w/CREDIT SCORES 580+ •100% CashOut & Purchase Programs •FHA Streamline–No Appraisal/

Closing Cost •FHA/CONVENTIONAL/USDA/ VA Call Glenda Popwell 205-755-4577 or 1-800-365-9016 GJP@ moneyoutlet.com NMLS #7371/AL#50594 Ignite Your Career with Mspark! For current openings, visit: www.mspark.com/ our-company/careers/or send resume: wscott@mspark.com.

Mspark offers competitive compensation, benefits and a team-oriented work environment. EOE. Myer Place, Columbiana 2 br-1 bath with laundry. Now taking applications.

669-6120 or 369-0015 Class-A CDL DriverDry Bulk/Pneumatic Birmingham,AL. Must be 25+, have clean driving record, twoyears tractor/trailer experience.

Will train drivers on tank. Good benefits-almost all drivers home everynight. Contact Keith 205-438-4959 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 Immediate Opening - PT/FT Employee for Medical Office - Alabaster. Must be willing to learn new skills and live in vicinity. Email resume: personal4@charter.net or fax: 205-664-9689 NuSteel Fabricators Inc. looking for skilled, selfmotivated structural fitters.

Must have prior experience with structural steel/ability to read blueprints. Pay based on knowledge/skill. Apply at 809 First Road, Childersburg, AL. Call 256-378-0880 or email LFranklin@nusteelfab.com

Manufacturing/Assembly positions available in Calera area. Full time hours, all shifts available. Call today 205-267-3910 Fostering Saves Lives!

Short term or long term, open your heart and home to a homeless pet.

Shelby Humane Society 205-669-3916 Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately 3 Yrs Min Driving History With Dump Trailer Experience *$1000 Retention Bonus *Local Hauling *Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC 251.470.0355 HUGHES NET • Gen4 High-Speed Satellite Internet Is Available Where You Live!

FREE Standard Installation Limited Time Offer!

Ask about FREE router!

Call 800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com OTR Class A Driver in Montgomery, AL. • 3 years experience • $.40-.50 per mile • Paid weekly • BCBS Insurance • Home Weekends • EZ & prepass • Safety bonus Call: (334) 288-8106 Montevallo Main Level Living 4BR/2BA Home, over 2,500 sf. MLS# 630885 $199,500 Call Linda Brooks Remax First Choice 205-249-5867 Professional Sitter w/18 yrs experience in healthcare.

Excellent people skills.

Enjoy helping people. Duties/ exp include: Personal hygiene, light housekeeping, etc. Will consider live-in.

Rent-A-Sitter 205-253-4320.

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

WE WILL REMOVE ANYTHING FROM YOUR BUSINESS OR HOME... FROM FRONT YARD TO BACKYARD FROM ATTIC TO GARAGE 205-810-5829 Salvation Army Bi-Weekly Auction • 1401 FL Shuttlesworth Dr, Bham. Used electronics, furniture, equipment, brica-brac. Fee $4-$5. Public welcome! Call for details: (205)252-8151 PAINT ANY ROOM FOR ONLY $50 Walls, only 1 coat.

Wallpaper removing, platerings and drywall repairs. Same day service. 205-699-1001 Mill Wright • Mechanical • Electrical • Hydraulic Repairs Helena Industrial Park Business.

Five Years Experience Industrial.

Metal Working, Machinery Rigging, Field Repairs, Installation, Operational.

Experience of Equipment.

Call Mr. Dooley 205-664-9644 Pelham’s best kept secret!

Apartments are leasing fast so visit us today: 205-663-1101 or meadowwoodapts.info Baptist Health System See current openings & apply at www.baptisthealthalabama.org Southern Haulers LLC CDL Class A Drivers Needed Immediate openings for Regional CDL Class A Drivers.

Tractor Trailer Dump & Flatbed.

Req: 23 yrs of age, 1 yr Class A CDL exp necessary, good MVR. Excellent wages, medical & dental insurance, 401K, life insurance. If interested, call 1-800-537-4621 and ask for George, James, or Adam. southernhaulersllc.com EOE PLUMBERS NEEDED Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com Electricians Needed Birmingham & Tuscaloosa Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com

St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Hiring for Outpatient Surgery Center • Surgical Technicians • Scrub Technicians • Experienced RNs 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Hoover, AL 35242 Apply at www.stvhs.com/ careers.asp IMMEDIATE POSITIONS!!!!!

Need 5 motivated workers to replace 5 lazy ones! Loaders, assistant manager, customer service positions, sales reps.

Need valid DL. No experience neccesary. Long hours, but very competitive pay.

Call Drew (205) 490-1003 or (404) 723-1322 CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Super Service has NEW Southeast regional truck driving jobs & opportunities that offer weekly home time & better pay! See more at: driveforsuperservice.com T & T Plumbing and Service Don’t get in over your head...

Call T & T for all your plumbing needs. Free estimates- Licensed and insured. 205-358-2499 Taylor Made 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 TEMP FORCEHIRING NOW: Assembly and Inspection!

Childersburg & Vincent.

Full Time. 1st and 2nd Shifts.

Entry Level OK! Apply at TempForce: (256)245-8367 www.tempforcejobs.com Stable Hand Position • North Shelby County • To apply, call 205-991-9720 or 205-531-1355

The Tutoring Center BACK TO SCHOOL Get Your Year Started On the Right Foot 205-987-9577 www.hoover.tutoringcenter.com

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS CDL-A Driver With DUMP EXPERIENCE To pull Frameless Dump Trailers – 2 years T/T experience, safe driving record and good employment history required.

•Paid Uniforms •Paid Boot Allowance •Paid Safety Bonus •Paid Vacation •Matching 401K •BC/BS, Life, Dental, S/T &L/T Disability Insurance •Direct Deposit Call Valerie: 800-749-5552 or apply online at www.walpoleinc.com EOE/DFWP

Shipping Manager Manufacturing company is seeking Shipping Manager.

Some duties include Management of Shipping Team, working on computer, pulling orders, receiving, driving forklift. Fax Resume & Salary Requirements to 205-668-0431.

NOW HIRING CDL-A TRUCK DRIVERS $5000 Sign-On Bonus 3-years experience/ Hazmat Endorsement required.

Excellent benefit package: 401K, PTO/paid holidays, Insurance. Call Mary: 979-413-2140 or 979-413-2192 jobs@westernintl.com

Hiring Professional Flatbed/ RGN Truck Drivers. $5,000 sign on bonus. 2 years of Flatbed or RGN experience required.

Highly competitive percentage based pay. michael@usspecialized.com Call (205)763-1090

Whiteline Express, LTD is Hiring Qualified Regional &OTR Class A CDL Drivers!

Great Home Time! Contact the Recruiting Department at 888560-9644 or online www.wl-express.com

Landscape Position for Gated Community in North Shelby County • Apply Monday-Friday, 8am - 2pm Call 296-2329 or 991-4653 for directions & information.

Dr. Robert F Bradford Jr. is proud to announce the opening of Toothbud Dentistry, in Calera.

Medicaid accepted. Call ands chedule your appointment today! (205)668-7766

MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land.

Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit. 3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.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!

Villa Maria Apartments Affordable Housing for Ages 62 & above or Mobility Impaired • Income Based Rent • Gated Community 205-836-7839 205-833-0532 Call today for an application and/or appt.

HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT TODAY! World Heritage www.whhosts.com 1-800-888-9040 or 404-307-8830 info@world-heritage.org Painters Needed!

Minimum 3 years experience w/new residential painting, dependable transportation, clean appearance. Must be Drug/Alcohol free.

References Required.

Also Quality Subcontractors w/ Own Equipment.

205-621-2627 High performance hearing aids at factory direct pricing.

Save thousands by calling Zounds Hearing in Hoover at 205.383.4949 to schedule your free hearing exam.

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

81

why I love Hoover

‘Hoover is a great place to live and work’

B

orn and raised in Hoover, Fire Chief John Wingate has enjoyed jobs from rookie firefighter to chief in his 40 years with the City of Hoover. He started working for the Bluff Park Fire Department when he was 16 and later enrolled in the UAB paramedic program. In 1975, he joined the Hoover Fire Department and also married his wife, Sandra. The couple has two daughters, Jennifer and Stephanie, and two grandsons.

Q: Why did you decide to become a first responder?

A: In the 1960s and 1970s, I had a friend whose brother was a firefighter. We visited him often and were amazed by how the crew worked.

Q: What’s your favorite part about your job?

A: A successful event: Protecting a large building by putting out the small fires or helping a patient survive almost certain death.

Q: What is the hardest thing about working in the fire department?

A: You never know what your day will bring. Paramedic-rescue, 82

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015

people know about you? advanced heavy-rescue, hazardous material incident, installing an infant A: My love of music. car seat, a routine blood pressure check or, yes, a fire.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?

Q: Has there ever been a time on the A: I love to travel and spend time with my grandchildren. job when you were scared for your life or those around you?

A: Absolutely! Any emergency call Q: If you hadn’t become a first responder, what do you think your on either of our interstates could be job would be today? deadly.

A: An accounting path.

Q: Why do you love Hoover?

Q: What advice would you give A: I grew up here and have seen all someone who’s interested in joining of the great changes since Hoover became a city. Hoover is a great place the fire department? to live and work.

A: Do your research. Investigate all avenues on your own, and don’t rely on others to do it for you. n Q: What is something not many

October 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

83

84

• Hoover’s Magazine | October 2015