Hoover's Magazine, October/November 2019

LAURA CRANDALL BROWN’S LEGACY • TOUR THE HAGWOODS’ RETREAT • THE WIFFLE BALL CROWN

2019 MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL GUIDE

WOMEN IN BUSINESS WHO INSPIRE US GATHERING AT

TRE LUNA BAR + KITCHEN

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2019 HooversMagazine.com Vol. 8 | Issue 5 $4.95

EMOTION IN COLOR STEPHANIE KIRKLAND’S PAINTINGS

Karen Watson has two guiding principles for providing great customer service.

Can you guess what they are?

In eight years of helping customers with everything from billing questions to establishing new service, Customer Service Representative Karen Watson has applied two basic principles.

“It’s all about treating people the way you would want to be treated and being knowledgeable about the company’s policies,” Karen said.

“When I’m the customer, I want and expect great service. So, I’m always determined to give that to our customers.”

In fact, even if you’re not a SouthWest Water Company customer, Karen can be helpful. She keeps a current list of the customer service lines for all of the major utilities in the area, to help make certain any caller gets the help they need.

Karen says, “The company invests in us, to make sure we have the training and skills we need to be effective in dealing with whatever issue a customer may have. So, call me. If I can’t assist you, I will find someone who can.”

SouthWest Water Company is committed to providing every customer with the best possible service—every day and in every way. Karen Watson and her guiding principles help us make good on that commitment.

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At the University of Montevallo, you will enjoy small classes, personalized attention, engaging student activities and abundant opportunities for real-world experience.

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montevallo.edu 205-665-6030 admissions@montevallo.edu #IBelongAtMontevallo HooversMagazine.com 5

68

FEATURES

54

SHE’S THE BOSS Local women share what it’s like to open and run a small business—and how they balance it with everything else.

62

PAYING IT FORWARD When Jim and Cecilia Crandall lost their daughter to ovarian cancer, they decided to honor Laura’s memory by supporting other women, just as she would have.

68

No health setbacks are going to stop James DeLano from greeting every day with optimism and a desire to serve his community.

6 October/November 2019

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

A FULL LIFE

33

PHOTO BY LAUREN WINTER

arts & culture

17 Craving Color: Stephanie Kirkland’s Joyful Return to Painting 23 Moss Rock Festival: Your Guide to the Eco-Creative Event 29 Five Questions For: Feather Wild Artist Sarah Conklin 32 Book Nook: Halloween Spooktacular

schools & sports

33 Big Leagues: The Grit and Glory of Local Wiffle Ball Leagues 38 Five Questions For: SPHS Volleyball Player Paris Morris

food

& drink

39 Date Night: Tre Luna Bar + Kitchen’s Pizzas and Pick-Me-Ups

in every issue 6 Contributors 7 From the Editor 8 The Question 9 #HooversMag 11 The Guide 30 Aldridge Gardens 74 Hoover Area Chamber 78 Out & About 86 Marketplace 88 Why I Love Hoover

45 Five Questions For: Full Moon Bar-B-Que’s Maluff Brothers

home

& style

47 Beautiful View: The Hagwoods’ Reimagined Home on the Crest

HooversMagazine.com 7

contributors EDITORIAL

Graham Brooks Stephen Dawkins Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Wilson Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino

CONTRIBUTORS

Grace Bedsole Carmen Brown Mary Kathryn Carpenter Dawn Harrison Alyssa Jewell Angela Karen Brendon Pinola Anne Riley Heather Skaggs Sara Walker Lauren Winter

DESIGN

Jamie Dawkins Kate Sullivan Green Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Darniqua Bowen Kristy Brown Kari George Caroline Hairston Rachel Henderson Daniel Holmes Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla Jordan Price Viridiana Romero Briana Sanders Jessica Steelman Kerrie Thompson

Dawn Harrison, Photographer Dawn Harrison is a freelance photographer out of Birmingham. She grew up and put down roots off of 280, where she lives with her wonderful husband, five kids, one son-in-law, two grandkids, three dogs, two cats, eight cows and two ducks. When she isn’t taking pictures, you can find her burning up 280 getting to various school and sporting events, or hanging out in carpool lines. She feels extremely blessed to be a part of the publication and to continue to meet such inspiring members of our community.

Anne Riley, Writer Anne Riley lives in north Shelby County with her husband, Rob, and their three daughters, Maggie, Jenna, and Kellan. Anne is the Content Team Director at Uptick Marketing by day, morphing into a freelance writer and editor after the kids go to bed. She is the author of two young adult novels (Shadows of the Hidden and Pull) and one children’s picture book (Voyage to the Star Kingdom), and her freelance writing has appeared in Fresh Style magazine, Shelby Living, Hoover’s Magazine, and multiple online outlets.

Heather Jones Skaggs, Writer Heather is an author, freelance writer and native of Hoover where she lives with her husband, Greg; daughter, Charlotte; and fur-baby Carrie. National publisher Arcadia Publishing and The History Press found Heather in 2012, and together they have published three books covering Hoover’s history. Heather digs for the untold stories in Hoover and brings them to the pages of magazines and newspapers. Heather showcases her home community of Bluff Park in her blog at Heatherscorner.org.

Lauren Winter, Photographer Southern to the core, Lauren Winter grew up in Birmingham and now lives in Bluff Park. She is mama to two little girls, and owner of Fresh Grace Photography, which specializes in lifestyle family photography and weddings. In addition to her girls, Lauren’s favorites include sweet tea, camping, football, bluebirds, thunderstorms and puppy breath.

ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Katie McDowell Stacey Meadows Tim Prince

Hoover’s Magazine is published bimonthly 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 $16.30 for one year by visiting HooversMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@hooversmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext.

536.

8 October/November 2019

W

from the editor

ON THE COVER

Stephanie Kirkland

Watching an artist work is fascinating to me. I took a class on the art of hand lettering last year, and other than the excitement of completing a decorative wooden sign to take home, what I enjoyed most was watching our instructor draw different letters and words on her big easel pad. Each letter and word she wrote seemed to flow like water from the tip of her marker as her hand glided across the white page; she made it look so easy. It was truly mesmerizing to me, and I left with a greater appreciation for what she and so many artists, calligraphers, designers and other creators do—and the beauty they add to our world.

That’s a big reason I look forward to working with the Moss Rock Festival team on their guide in our fall issue every year. The artists that line the streets of The Preserve at this annual festival simply astound me with their work—from paintings to blown glass to fabric pieces to woodworks, and nearly everything in between. You’ll find an overview of the 2019 eco-creative festival (set for Nov. 2 and Nov. 3) in this issue, along with a Q&A with 2019 Moss Rock Festival Featured Artist Sarah Conklin, founder of Feather Wild and maker of textiles featuring her freehand drawings, many of which are inspired by what she’s seen in nature. Flip over a few pages to get acquainted with the lineup, including artists and exhibitors, smart living vendors, nature organizations, outdoor activities, children’s activities, the beer garden and a map of the grounds. You don’t want to miss out on the event that, in the words of our Moss Rock Festival Guide liaison extraordinaire, Alex Kunzman, brings out thousands of visitors for an art-filled, inspiring, exploratory, active and fun fall weekend in the great outdoors.”

We’re also excited for you to read about painter Stephanie Kirkland, who will return with her exquisite paintings to the Bluff Park Art Show this month; local Wiffle ball leagues whose games are as lively as the team names would suggest; Chad and Patti Hagwood’s love story woven into their home renovation project; and several more features that will touch your heart, including that of James DeLano, a 14-year-old whose positive outlook and servant’s attitude are all the more inspiring considering the health struggles he has overcome in his young life. Don’t miss out on this incredible teen’s story. If these stories spark any ideas you want us to consider for future issues, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for making Hoover’s Magazine a part of your day!

Stephanie paints mostly with acrylics to allow for layering and texture in her abstracts and landscapes.

Photo by Mary Kathryn Carpenter Design by Jamie Dawkins

emily.sparacino@hooversmagazine.com

HooversMagazine.com 9

WHY NOT BE THE BOSS YOU’ve

ALWAYS WANTED?

“ ” THE QUESTION

What’s your favorite fall tradition in Hoover?

Hay rides

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Grabbing Shipley Do-Nuts Hoover on Saturday mornings during the fall.

Perfect breakfast for game days!

- Sara Sanderson Franklin

Enjoyed coffee & pastry on our 1st visit!

Definitely going back!

-Ginger Ferrell, on "Wild Roast" via Hoover's Magazine Facebook page

Subscribe to our newsletter Get the latest on Hoover events and happenings—plus our favorite pieces of local inspiration—delivered to your inbox biweekly. Sign up at HooversMagazine.com. facebook.com/hooversmagazine

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10 October/November 2019

#HooversMag

Tag us in your Hoover photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

@aldridgebotanicalgardens The Honey Harvest from the Beautiful Bees at Aldridge Gardens has begun! With HUGE Thanks to Cindi Stehr at Hilltop Montessori, her expertise & extraction equipment!

@tangled_stones Day 3 of Mixed Media Art Journal Camp! Paper marbling day! I always love the magic of marbling! #jacquardmarblingkit #mixedmediajournal #artjournal #summercamp

@hoovercityschools A #Tuesday throwback to #Summer2019 at #HOSA where #Hoover and #SpainPark students placed at the state and national levels. Kudos! #LearningForLife #HCSStrong

@hhsbiz Business Academy Banking & Financial Services students study business ownership with a fun game involving Smarties. Can’t beat that kind of learning! #HooverPride #HCSstrong

HooversMagazine.com 11

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W W W . A P E P P E R M I N T P H O T O . C O M 12 October/November 2019

THE GUIDE

BLUFF PARK ART SHOW OCTOBER 5 Bluff Park Community Center 9 a.m.

Artists and art enthusiasts, prepare: The annual Bluff Park Art Show is back. The free event has grown to more than 150 artists and attracts more than 10,000 visitors each year. The art on display is supplemented with food vendors and hands-on activities for children ages 3-8.

Free parking and shuttle buses are available at the Bluff Park United Methodist Church, Shades Mountain Independent Church, Bluff Park Village Shopping Center and Shades Crest Baptist Church.

HooversMagazine.com 13

THE GUIDE WHAT TO DO IN HOOVER

OCT. 10

OCT. 4 Spain Park High School Football vs. Thompson Jaguar Stadium 7 p.m.

OCT. 6 King’s Home Shelby Auxiliary Mad Hatter’s Tea The Barn at Shady Lane 3 p.m.

OCT. 7-12 Alabama Woodworkers Guild Exhibition Hoover Public Library OCT. 13 Young Artist Reception Hoover Public Library 3 p.m.

Taste of Hoover 5 P.M. Aldridge Gardens

Taste of Hoover celebrates the variety of culinary styles found throughout the city.

Guests can 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.

OCT. 11-13

Vintage Market Days of Birmingham TIMES VARY The Finley Center

This vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market features dozens of vendors specializing in vintage, antique, repurposed and handmade items. Come for a fun weekend of shopping. Tickets will be available at the gate each day. Visit vintagemarketdays.com/market/ birmingham for more details.

Share your news! Email submissions to Emily.Sparacino@Hooversmagazine.com to be considered for our next issue.

14 October/November 2019

OCT. 15 Great British Bake Off! – Teen Edition Hoover Public Library 6:30 p.m.

OCT. 18 Fall Senior Craft Fair Hoover Senior Center 9 a.m.

OCT. 18 Hoover High School Football vs.

Vestavia Hoover Met 7 p.m.

OCT. 18 Spain Park High School Football vs. Oak Mountain Jaguar Stadium 7 p.m.

OCT. 19 Hoover High School Band Festival Hoover Met All Day OCT. 22 New Horizons Luncheon Hoover Senior Center 11 a.m.

THE GUIDE OCT. 25 Halloween Spooktacular!

Hoover Public Library 7 p.m.

OCT. 12

Dog Days at Discovery

OCT. 31 Trick or Treat Hoover Public Library 9 a.m.

10 A.M. Discovery UMC in Trace Crossings

NOV. 1 Hoover High School Football vs.

IMG Hoover Met 7 p.m.

NOV. 1 Spain Park High School Football Jaguar Stadium 7 p.m.

NOV. 2+3 Moss Rock Festival The Preserve Town Hall 10 a.m.

NOV. 3 2019 Thank A Vet! Week Kickoff and Reception Hoover Public Library 1 p.m.

NOV. 4 Veterans Celebration Aldridge Gardens 9:30 a.m.

NOV. 8 New Horizons Veterans Luncheon Hoover Senior Center 11 a.m.

NOV. 10 Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder In Concert Hoover Public Library 4 p.m. + 7:30 p.m.

NOV. 16+17 Parks and Rec Flag Football Tournament Hoover Met Complex Fields NOV. 20-23 Market Noel Presented by the Junior League of Birmingham The Finley Center Hoover Metropolitan Complex

OCT. 24

Hoover Hayride and Family Night

This free event is designed with the whole family— including the furry members—in mind. Features include food trucks, live music, pet-related vendors, a dog agility course and kid-friendly activities. Dogs must be on a leash. For the full lineup, visit dogdaysatdiscovery.com.

5-8 P.M. Veterans Park on Valleydale Road

Grab your costume and head over to the park for Hoover’s annual Hayride and Family Night. As usual, children will be able to collect treats at a large exhibitor pavilion, and food vendors will be stationed on the grounds. Giveaways, balloon artists and face painting will round out the activities. Parking is available at Spain Park High School with complimentary shuttles to the park.

Admission is free.

OCT. 28

Hoover Links Fore Scholars 8 A.M. Inverness Country Club

Swing for a good cause at the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce’s Links Fore Scholars, benefiting the Chamber’s scholarship fund. Players, sponsors and donations are all welcome. Registration and other details are available at hooverchamber.org.

HooversMagazine.com 15

THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN

EVENTS

OCT. 3-5 Greek Food Festival Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral

OCT. 4-6 Alabama Ballet Presents: Blue Suede Shoes BJCC Concert Hall

OCT. 4-6 Southern Women’s Show BJCC

OCT. 4-6 Barber Vintage Motorcycle Festival Barber Motorsports Festival

NEW LOCATION, SAME SUCCESS Hoover’s popular National Night Out event moved to a new location this year, but that didn’t affect the turnout.

Hundreds of people attended the free event in the Belk parking lot at the Riverchase Galleria to get an up-close look at some of the tools used by police

on a daily basis. The event featured displays by the Hoover Police Department, Hoover Fire Department and other local agencies; the HPD Mobile Command Center, SWAT team and Explosive Ordinance Disposal team; a car show; and local food trucks.

MILITARY

FLYING WITH THE BLUE ANGELS Marine Corps Capt. William Huckeba of Hoover was among the officers the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, selected for the 2020 air show season in July. He is a C-130 Hercules pilot currently assigned to Officer Candidate School Quantico. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2012. The squadron selected two F/A-18 demonstration pilots, two C-130 pilots, a maintenance officer and public affairs officer to replace outgoing team members. Many highly qualified Navy and Marine Corps officers submit applications to join the Blue Angels each year. “We had a phenomenal group of applicants this year,” said Capt. Eric Doyle, commanding officer and flight leader of the Blue Angels. “The 2020 Blue Angels are lucky to have these talented individuals join them to represent the Navy and Marine Corps in the team’s 74th show season.”

Submitted by Blue Angels Public Affairs 16 October/November 2019

OCT. 5 Birmingham Oktoberfest Railroad Park

OCT. 6 Cahaba River Fry-Down Benefits Cahaba River Society Railroad Park

OCT. 6 Magic City Mac + Cheese Festival Brookwood Village Macy’s Upper Parking Lot 1-4 p.m.

OCT. 6 Vulcan AfterTunes: Christone “Kingfish” Ingram Vulcan Park and Museum 3 p.m.

OCT. 12 Susan G. Komen North Central Alabama Race for the Cure Regions Field OCT. 20 Barktoberfest Helena Amphitheater 12 p.m.

OCT. 20 Breakin’ Bread Pepper Place

THE GUIDE OCT. 25 Alabama Symphony Orchestra Presents Ghostbusters in Concert Samford University Wright Center

BUSINESS

OCT. 25 Magic City Music Fest with Tom Joyner BJCC Concert Hall OCT. 25 The Avett Brothers Oak Mountain Amphitheatre OCT. 29 Hocus Pocus Tonight at the Wright Movie Night Samford University Wright Center OCT. 30 We Will Rock You presented by Alabama Theatre Alabama Theatre NOV. 1-3 Disney’s Frozen Jr. Red Mountain Theatre Company Cabaret Theatre NOV. 1-10 You Can’t Take It With You Virginia Samford Theatre

NOV. 2 Dia de los Muertos Pepper Place

NOV. 7-10 Disney on Ice Presents Dream Big BJCC Legacy Arena

NOV. 12 National Veterans Day Parade Downtown Birmingham NOV. 21-24 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical Virginia Samford Theatre

NOV. 23-24 Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party!

BJCC Concert Hall

DEVELOPING THE WORKFORCE Antiqua Cleggett talked to the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce in August about the importance of workforce development and how her organization, Central Six AlabamaWorks, is working to make strides in that area. Cleggett, the organization’s executive director, says Central Six AlabamaWorks is “resultsdriven and boots on the ground for

industry.” For example, industry leaders could communicate to Central Six AlabamaWorks about a need for certain kind of welders, and the organization would take that information to its partners who are training providers. Educators can then adjust their curriculum to better provide the technical and soft skills that are needed in the workforce.

EDUCATION

TURNING HER TASSEL Victoria Phillips in May completed her bachelor’s degree in earth and environmental science from Vanderbilt University, where she made the Dean’s List every year.

Victoria was the recipient of several academic scholarships while in attendance at Vanderbilt including: •The Gertrude Vanderbilt Scholarship •The Vanderbilt Library Fellowship •The Kathryn & Walter Dean Duke University Fellowship, where she studied Marine Ecology at the Duke Marine Lab on Pivers Island, North Carolina.

She was also selected as an Institute for Study Abroad Scholar and studied at the University College of London in London, England, which is ranked the top university in London and the eighth in the world. Victoria is a graduate of Spain Park High School and the daughter of Lt. Colonel Kenneth Phillips and Mrs. Daphne Phillips of Greystone.

HooversMagazine.com 17

THE GUIDE COMMUNITY

PHILANTHROPY

LEADING ROLE The Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama has named Hoover native Sara Franklin as its executive director. Sara comes to the Epilepsy Foundation with nearly a decade of public and community relations experience.

She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in public relations and communication studies at the University of Alabama in 2010. In addition to her career experience, Sara’s life was personally touched by epilepsy last year. “One in 26 people in the United States will develop epilepsy during their lifetime, and more than 54,000 people in the state of Alabama have epilepsy or another type of seizure disorder,” said Gregg Fort, Regional Director for Chapter Operations at the Epilepsy Foundation.

“There are many new developments in the works in the treatment of epilepsy, especially with research being done at hospital institutions in Alabama, and we look forward to Sara leading our organization’s efforts to provide services related to epilepsy throughout the state.”

18 October/November 2019

FULFILLING COMMITMENTS King’s Home Shelby Auxiliary recently presented a check for $50,000 to King’s Home for their women’s home.

Auxiliary members were able to raise these funds through their 2019 Tablescapes event in the spring. Auxiliary members are committed to King’s Home Shelby all year long through fundraising events, Bible studies, service projects and prayer.

&CULTURE

ARTS

CRAVING COLOR When Stephanie Kirkland picked up a paintbrush for the first time, she didn’t want to put it down.

BY EMILY SPARACINO PHOTOS BY MARY KATHRYN CARPENTER HooversMagazine.com 19

L

Like many young adults, Stephanie Kirkland knew what her strengths were when she started college at the University of Alabama. A childhood full of writing stories and creating illustrations for them laid the foundation for her college studies in English and art. But it wasn’t until she tried to sign up for a photography class and instead had to enroll in drawing that she discovered a world of art she couldn’t leave—a land of brushstrokes, colors and canvas. “Initially, I thought I wanted to take a photography class in college, but in order to take that, you had to take drawing as a prerequisite,” Stephanie says. “I loved that so much, but ended up never taking photography. I took painting instead. I absolutely fell in love with painting.”

During her sophomore year, Stephanie logged countless hours in the studio, often losing track of

20 October/November 2019

time and working on paintings late into the night.

What started as taking one class just to be able to take photography turned into a second class, in painting. And Stephanie wasn’t satisfied with simply minoring in art; she soon decided to pursue a double major.

But after college, she put her art on hold and took a teaching job at a high school in rural Alabama. “I was working about 80-hour weeks,” she says. “I had no time to paint that year. That was sort of a wakeup call for me. It was extremely stressful, and obviously, no one needs to be working that much. I felt like something was missing.”

Painting became her stress reliever and creative outlet, even though her time for it was limited.

Two years ago, however, Stephanie started

A prerequisite class for photography in college led Stephanie Kirkland to painting, which she immediately fell in love with as a young adult.

HooversMagazine.com 21

prioritizing it again. The more she painted, the more she wanted to keep painting. That’s when she knew she needed a change.

Now, Stephanie works in communications— which appeals to her “writing brain,” she says— and does art part-time. It’s often how she starts her day. “I love painting in the morning,” she says. “I just find that really refreshing, and on the weekends. It doesn’t feel like work.”

Stephanie is preparing for her second year as an exhibitor in the annual Bluff Park Art Show, set for Saturday, Oct. 5 this year. “The quality of the artists is fantastic,” she says. “It’s really an honor to be in the show. The Bluff Park-Hoover community is really supportive of local artists, and I’m excited to be able to participate again.”

The area is also conducive to Stephanie’s outdoor adventures. Moss Rock Preserve is one of her favorite places to hike and gather inspiration.

She paints mostly with acrylics, which dry quickly and allow for layering and texture, she says, adding, “They fit really well with my style.”

Color and texture are the main elements of her

“I think art has a really unique way of capturing human experience in general at that deep emotional level.”

–Stephanie Kirkland

22 October/November 2019

NOV 2-3 WWW.MOSSROCKFESTIVAL.COM

MEET THE ARTIST If you can’t make it to the Bluff Park Art Show to talk to Stephanie and see her work, you can catch her at the Handmade Art Show on Oct. 20 at Homewood Central Park.

Art by Sarah Conklin

abstracts and landscapes. “The outdoors come into my paintings a lot,” she says. And remember that photography class she skipped in college? It hasn’t stopped her from capturing her travels and then using the photographs for artistic inspiration. “I take a ton of photos when I travel,” she says. “Most of my landscapes are based loosely on a photograph because usually it is a very specific place. But when I’m thinking about colors to include—cool or warm, muted or bright—those decisions are more based on memory.”

She also draws inspiration from what she calls emotional pieces of art, such as a sad song or a movie with a powerful ending. “I never really understood that attraction until I started painting,” she admits. “I think art has a really unique way of capturing human experience in general at that deep emotional level. Like brush strokes that seem very of-the-moment … My style has those concepts. I have those at the back

● 14th ANNUAL SPONSORS WATERFALL: Hoover’s Magazine • Starnes Media • This is Alabama LAKE: Bell Media • Birmingham Magazine • Birmingham Mountain Radio 107.3fm USS Real Estate RIVER: Alabama Power • Avadian Credit Union EXCURSIONSgo.com • Joe Piper VILLAGE GREEN: Babypalooza Magazine Bare Naked Noodles • Bham Now • Beyond the Rock • City of Hoover Event Rentals Unlimited • Jaguar Land Rover Bham • Over the Mountain Journal Pursell Farms • RealtySouth • WBHM 90.3fm SPOTLIGHT PARTNERS: AARP Alabama • CartoTracks • Coca Cola United • Jefferson Credit Union LeafFilter North of AL • Mountain High Outfitters • Precision Chiropractic Royal Cup • Saiia Construction • Sprouts Farmers Market The Beer Hog • UAB Callahan Eye Hospital Clinics

HooversMagazine.com 23

of my mind whenever I’m painting, of capturing feelings and not just visual replicas.”

Shows like the Bluff Park Art Show give Stephanie and other artists a place to display their work for people to see in person. “You can do your absolute best to photograph it, but there is nothing like seeing a piece of art in person,” she says. “It just has a different feel to it. It’s a more immersive and quality experience.” In addition, collectors can talk to artists face-to-face. “I just love meeting people who are interested in art and getting feedback. To talk to people in person about your 24 October/November 2019

work is invaluable. I could talk about art for days, and it’s fun to meet other people who are as excited about it as I am.”

Stephanie will exhibit a mixture of her paintings, including a new collection inspired by her travels to Provence, France, which she calls “one of the most beautiful places on the planet.” For a preview of Stephanie’s work before the show, visit Stephaniekirklandart.com.

You can follow her on Instagram and Facebook @stephaniekirklandart.

WWW.MOSSROCKFESTIVAL.COM

NOV 2-3 Art by Sarah Conklin

The Preserve, Hoover

11 preview

Gates, Info & Photo Booth Sponsors: USS Real Estate, Avadian Credit Union

Northwest Gate

Located at the top of Orange Row

Northeast Gate

Located at the top of Blue Row

Admission / Tickets

ADVANCE: $12 Weekend Pass GATE: $15 Weekend Pass, $10 Adult Day Pass, $5 Student Day Pass, Kids 15 & under free!

Info Center Sponsor: Hoover’s Magazine

Get answers, enter giveaways, plus grab a festival commemorative t-shirt. Located adjacent to Northwest Festival Gate at the top of Orange Row.

Photo Booth Sponsor: Avadian Credit Union, Bham Now

Located adjacent to Info Center Located at top of Orange Row. Stop by, say cheese, then Tag #MossRockFest2019!

Festival Park & Ride Festival Shuttles Sponsor: City of Hoover

Parking @ Hoover Metropolitan Stadium Hoover School Buses and Trollies run Sat 9:30am - 6pm AND Sun 5pm.

Parking in The Preserve is by credentials only and will be facilitated by security at neighborhood entry points during the festival weekend.

Featured Artist

Sarah Conklin, Printmaking @featherwildsarah

26 October/November 2019

2019 MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL GIVEAWAYS Enter at the Festival Info Center November 2-3, 2019

Getaway to Pursell Farms Resort!

Presented by Pursell Farms

Artists and Exhibitors Sponsors: USS Real Estate, Starnes Media

Katie Adams, Painting Brooke Albrecht, Painting Galo Arias, Jewelry Henry Babs, 3D Mixed Media Michael Bastian, Sculpture Brian Bohanan, 2D Mixed Media Becky Bolton, Clay Xander Booker, 2D|3D Mixed Media Bow Wow Bandies, Fiber (+) Dori Boyd, Photography Brio Bolso | Luna by Brio, | Leather (+) Alexander Brown, Wood (+) Jim Brown, Printmaking Shelleigh Buckingham, Clay Michael Cade, Painting Patricia Caldwell, Painting Carol Carmichael, Painting Kyle Carpenter, Clay Jenny Cash, Painting Cedar & Sail, 3D Mixed Media (+) Nancy Solie & Clara Logue, 3D MM (+) Triny & Mike Cline, Clay Jessica Cohen, Painting | Watercolor Sierra Cole, Fiber (+) Claire Cormany, Painting Sam Criswell, Wood (+) Michael Davis, Painting Donna DiGiorgio, 2D Mixed Media Penny Dobson, 2D Mixed Media Leah Dodd, Jewelry William Dow, Photography Down in the Ham, Painting Leah Dziewit, Fiber (+) Earth Creations, Fiber (+) Essie Ebrahimi, Wood (+) Germain Ekamby, Wood (+) George Elliott, Photography Inga Patterson & Evija Fairo, Fiber (+) Steven Fabres-Cordero, Wood (+) Christoffer Frank, Watercolor Lori Frank, 2D Mixed Media Marysia Galbraith, Clay Monique Gibson, Jewelry Taylor Gindlesberger, Clay Eve Greiner, 2D Mixed Media (+) Lisa Hammitte, Painting AK Hardeman, Painting Joye Hehn, Fiber (+) Charlene Heilman, Glass

Camping Giveaway!

Presented by Mountain High Outfitters

Canne Holladay, Clay Jeff Hughes, Painting Michael Johnson, Jewelry Kentuck Red Dog Potters, Clay Amanda Klein, Painting | Watercolor Patricia Koski, Glass (+) Michelle Leach, Clay Catherine Lee, 3D Mixed Media Brenda Liles, Glass Lindsay Brook Designs, Fiber (+) Manami Lingerfelt, Painting Anna Lyle, Painting Terry Markwardt, 3D Mixed Media (+) Robert Martindale, Clay Vanessa Miller, Painting Erika Mock, Fiber (+) Anne Moore, Jewelry Mushpa y Mensa, Fiber | Printmaking (+) Dragana Obradovic, Other | Leather (+) Butch Oglesby, Photography Jacob Oglesby, 3D Mixed Media Kimberly Paige, Watercolor Peace of Thread, Fiber (+) Bonnie Poore, Fiber (+) Turner Porter, Wood (+) Lisa Pruitt, 2D Mixed Media June Pryor, Painting RANGEMARK, Fiber (+) Marjorie Rawson, Jewelry Trina Ross, Painting Sand Spirit Glass, Glass Carole Schrading, Painting Elizabeth Seidel, Jewelry Edina Shrestha, Jewelry Ben Smith, Wood (+) John Sperry, Painting Stately Made, Printmaking, (+) Emma Steelman, Jewelry Bob Steiger, Clay Jamie Stephens, Jewelry Danielle Stephenson, Jewelry Alan Sweet, Wood (+) Take a Seat (+) Gracelynn Tamrak, Sculpture TandM Woodcraft, Wood (+) thimbletreestudio, Fiber (+) Diana Vest, 3D Mixed Media Jaime Weaver, Wood Polly Wells, Sculpture Sunie Wyatt, 3D Mixed Media Natalie Young, Glass

Venue Map & Key

1

SmartLIVING Market + Sweetery Food, Home, Body, Health, Design, Tech Sponsor: Bare Naked Noodles

Alabama Center for Architecture Alabama Partners for Clean Air Alabama Peanut Co. Alabama Wildlife Center Angie & a Ginger Bare Naked Noodles Borth Beach Soapery Buttnaked Candles California Country Organics Chicken & Sweets Southern Yard Bird Dayspring Dairy doTerra Essentials Oils Emily’s Heirloom Pound Cakes Energy Alabama Fetch a Treat Truck for Dogs First Fruits Ministries Hoover Historical Society Infinite Soaps Ivory LeShore’s Gourmet Liv Sweet Bakery & Cookie Studio Lynn’s Over the Top Toffee Screaming Beans Coffee Simply Infused Olive Oil Shop Sweet Bottom Bakery Sweet Home Chicago The Joyful Food Co. Thompsons’ Orchard 2 Chicks with Scents Urban Ministry,Inc. Walden Farms & FARMacy Whispering Hollow Emporium

4

Shuttle Drop off & Pick Up (9:30am - 6:00pm Sat / 5:00pm Sun) Gate Information Center + Photo Booth Art + Design & Nature Smart Living Market + Sweetery Moss Rock Preserve WonderKid Studios Cafe by the Woods ATMs Airstreams Crescent Stage: Live Music Beer Garden: craft beer tasting

4 Greenways/Pathways Expo

1

Aspiring Gardeners Planet Project Sculptures Restrooms Live Art + Tech + Design + Travel Beverage Station Volunteer Check In / RealtySouth office Photo Booth Eco:Drive Bike Parking Rock Climbing Wall Fly Fishing Workshop Rope Bridge

HooversMagazine.com 27

Exhibitors - Organizations & Gear

Nature + Outdoor Activities

Live Art + Tech + Design + Travel

Sponsor: Alabama Power

Interactive Art Installation 1:

Alabama Partners for Clean Air Alabama Wildlife Center CartoTracks Friends of Moss Rock Preserve Mountain High Outfitters

Celeste Amparo Pfau Wood Turning: Carolyn Ray

Interactive Art Installation 2: Vinegar Airstream +Design Special Feature: SIilverliner Bespoke Travel Trailers

Aspiring Gardeners

ECO:DRIVE

Sponsor: Joe Piper, Inc.

Sponsor: Jaguar Land

Presentations, tips and advice from experts.

Rover Birmingham

Kick start your own green thumb!

The latest car innovations & advances from Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles

Featuring: AL Cooperative Extension System • Gardens Oy Vey • Jefferson County Master Gardeners Association • Pathway Gardens • Southern Cultured Orchards & Nursery • WE Community Gardens

4

Greenways / Pathways Expo Sponsor: EXCURSIONSgo.com

These groups get you OUTDOORS to enjoy

Crescent Stage Live Music on the Village Green Sponsor: Birmingham Mountain

Wonderkid Studios Art Studios for Kids

and explore miles and miles of trails

Sponsors: Babypalooza, Public Radio WBHM

and sites in the region.

90.3 FM

Featuring: AL Rivers Alliance • Earth & Ember Yoga • Freshwater Land Trust • GASP • Railroad Park Foundation • Red Rock Trail System

Talented local artists use nature as a launching point for creative projects influenced by nature, wildlife, the environment, recycling and sustainability.

ARTISTS & WORKSHOPS: Savannah Smith, Recycled Music Becky Delgado, Cardboard Catacombs Robby Wise, Wave of Color Mary Grace Tracey, Abstract Nature Hunter Vroonland, Paper Based Puppet Theatre Julianna Richey, Create Your own Insect Species Jonathan Evans, Recycling is Fashionable Taylor Hollingsworth, Makebelieve Arboretum Lauren Strain, Fairy Houses Cheyanne Smith, Sensory Natural Painting

Hikes & Bouldering in the Moss Rock Preserve

1:00pm, Sat and Sun Friends of Moss Rock Preserve

Introductory hikes to view the geology and plant life of the 350 acre nature preserve

Fly Fishing & Fly Tying

Scott Bennett joins Trout Unlimited for demos on the art of fly tying, fly fishing techniques, and a special exhibition of beautiful tied flies. Located on the Village Green.

Climbing Wall

Mountain High Outfitters will assist clmibers of all ages. Located on the Village Green.

Rope Bridge

Boy Scout Pack 93 & Troop 93.

Located in southeast wooded corner of the Village Green.

28 October/November 2019

Planet Projects Project: “Native Flora” Sponsor: RealtySouth, Over the Mountain Journal

A Classroom Sculpture Project for Creative Recycling by participating area K-12 schools

Radio 107.3fm

Live Music on The Village Green. Local & regional talent will provide the soundtrack for a beautiful Fall weekend.

Bring a blanket for the green.

Performances featured on stage Sat & Sun at 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm (Sat only)

Cafe by the Woods Local Food Trucks + Other Festival Favorites Sponsors: Coca Cola United, Birmingham Magazine, This is Alabama

Featuring: Anatomy of Pi • Baba Java Roaster & Cafe • Catering by Lanetta • Coca Cola United • Greek Tavern • Hyderabad Dum Zone • Magic City Sweet Ice • Miami Fusion Cafe • Rae Rae’s Catering • Steel City Pops • Yarbrough Festival Food Service

Salt Life Lager Scofflaw Brewing Siluria Brewing Company Slag Heap Brewing Company The Covert Hops Society Trim Tab Brewing Company United Johnson Brothers of Alabama Whole Foods Market Yellowhammer Brewing Company More to come!

Football Games of the day presented by Mr. Mancave

2019 Sponsors Thank you!

WATERFALL

Hoover’s Magazine Starnes Media This is Alabama

LAKE

Bell Media Birmingham Magazine Birmingham Mountain Radio 107.3fm USS Real Estate

Culinary Features

Dayspring Dairy • other featured beer snacks TBA.

Beer Garden Craft Tasting Event

Alabama Power Avadian Credit Union EXCURSIONSgo.com Joe Piper Inc.

VILLAGE GREEN

Spotlight Partner: The J. Beer Hog, Ticketed - $35 Door - Located in the woods between the Village Green and Orange Row Saturday Sessions: 12:00pm – 2:00pm & 2:30pm - 4:30pm / Sunday Session: 1:00pm - 3:00pm

8th annual Craft Tasting Event staged under the saturated color and dappled light of Beer Garden’s one-of-a-kind wooded venue located just off The Village Green live music.

Avondale Brewing Company Back Forty Beer Company Black Warrior Brewing Company Cahaba Brewing Company Carboy Junkies Catawba Brewing Company Chandaleur Brewing Company Fairhope Brewing Company Ferus Artisanal Ales Free the Hops Ghost Train Brewing Company Goat Island Brewing Good People Brewing Company InnerSpace Brewing Company Interstellar Ginger Beer & Exploration Company Old Black Bear Brewing Palmetto Brewing Pretoria Fields

RIVER

Volunteers You Moss Rock!

Sponsor: Bell Media Moss Rock Festival would like to thank all the dedicated individuals & community organiza-

Babypalooza Bare Naked Noodles Bham Now B-Metro Beyond the Rock City of Hoover Event Rentals Unlimited Homewood Life Jaguar Land Rover Birmingham Mountain Brook Magazine Over the Mountain Journal Pursell Farms Resort RealtySouth Shelby Living Vestavia Hills Magazine WBHM Public Radio 90.3fm

tions who give so generously of their time and support:

2019 SPECIAL HONORS: Hoover High School Hoover Ambassadors Boy Scouts of America Troop 21 • Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority • Helena High School • Moss Rock Festival Board • Shades Valley Technical Academies / Jefferson County School of Visual Art • Spain Park High School • The Preserve Residents

SPOTLIGHT PARTNERS

AARP Alabama • CartoTracks • Coca Cola United • LeafFilter North of Alabama • Mountain High Outfitters • Precision Chiropractic • REI • Royal Cup • Saiia Construction • SILVERLINER Custom Trailers • Smart Seal • Sprouts Farmers Market • The Beer Hog • Top Golf • UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics • Whole Foods Market

HooversMagazine.com 29

November 2-3 | The Preserve | Hoover, Alabama 65+ Brews | Cask Garden | Beer Snacks | Fall Football | Wooded Venue | Music Advance tickets get The Beer Hog Featured Glass | $30 | www.mossrockfestival.com

JOIN US for moss rock festival's 14th year!

nature. smart living. art + Design.

NOVEMBER 2-3, 2019 . THE PRESERVE. HOOVER. 30 October/November 2019

ARTS & CULTURE

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Sarah Conklin

Founder of Feather Wild + Moss Rock Festival 2019 Featured Artist PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Sarah spent her early childhood days learning and sewing alongside her mother on a cast iron portable Singer, and exploring the woods and creeks of the Hudson Valley around their family home. She discovered a love of working with metals in high school, but added print making to her skill set in college, where she also worked with clay in her role as a potter’s assistant. “I am a taker of photographs, searcher of beauty in all forms, a practicer of yoga and have been for about six years now,” she says. “I dabble in meditation and breath work too.”

What is your preferred medium?

My preferred medium is printmaking yet not on paper like most would think – on fabric. I took printmaking in college and really enjoyed it. I didn’t get to print for many years. Fast-forward to Rachel Lackey starting Green Pea Press Printmaking Collective at Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment, where I am a member, which gives me access to the printmaking equipment. I have been sewing since I was very young, making clothes for myself and my children. Making my own fabric designs seemed like the next natural step for me.

now the pieces that are meaningful to me are the patchwork placemats and pocket goddesses. The patchwork placemats are Do you try to convey messages, stories made from remnants of my printed fabric and other fabrics that were laying around— or specific themes in your pieces?

Art can be made from something that even the bias tape used to finish the edge of already exists and can be something that the placemats I made from scraps of fabric. everyone can use over again and in many The pocket goddesses are special to me different ways, which is being kind to the because I have enjoyed taking them on Earth. I often refer to the William Morris journeys with me and documenting the quote when people ask me about my art journey (this was a suggestion from a friend and why I make it: “Have nothing in your of my daughters). houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” Not all people What impact has art had on your life?

I can’t ever remember art not being a can afford a large piece of art to hang on their wall. My pieces are small, everyday part of my life. My mom was always What inspires you as an artist?

When I sit down to come up with another objects that add art and beauty to people’s drawing illustration with her pastels. Art print to print on fabric, I often look at my lives. This also plays into my minimalist got me through high school. If it weren’t for sketch book that I have sketched something lifestyle as my art tends to be pieces that are my art classes, I am not sure I would have in loosely that drew my attention at the multi-purpose; you don’t need lots of them, continued to go to school. In college I was an art major. I can always remember feeling time, or I look at nature guide books. My just a few. the desire to create art. Once I had my kids, designs come from nature, other shapes I remember reading about handiwork as an What can people expect to see in your and objects I see on a daily basis, and I important part of the Waldorf curriculum interpret them in a simple, minimal way exhibit at the Moss Rock Festival?

People can expect to see a large array of and that further encouraged me to into a sketch that can be repeated on fabric.

One of my favorite places is the Hudson textiles, all with my original prints on them introduce them to art as soon as I could. My River, which is a tidal estuary that creates like a total eclipse wall hanging, gods and kids grew up messy painting, gluing and these amazingly smooth rocks and glass, goddesses (one-of-a-kind dolls) to pot working with clay very early on. And my holders, napkins and zipper pouches. Right daughter at 21 still really enjoys making art. and has always been a source of inspiration for my art over the years.

HooversMagazine.com 31

News from our Chief Executive Officer Tynette Lynch

Taste of Hoover Thursday, October 10

October is almost here, and with it comes cooler weather, colorful leaves....and THE TASTE OF HOOVER! Celebrating our 8th annual event, Aldridge Gardens’ Taste of Hoover has become one of the most anticipated events on the Fall calendar. This year’s event will be Thursday, October 10, from 5pm to 8pm. With over 40 uniquely Hoover food and restaurant vendors, plus some of the most popular regional beer, wine and soft drink offerings AND “adult” beverage tastings, this year’s event promises to be the best yet.

Join us for an evening of good food, great music and terrific fellowship under the stars and bistro lights in front of the Aldridge House. There will fabulous food samplings for all tastes and ages, so buy your tickets now—this event always sells out early!!! $45 for Aldridge Gardens’ Members/$50 for nonmembers. Purchase tickets on-line at aldridgegardens. com or at the Gardens (Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm). Rain date: Thursday, October 17th.

Fall is the time of the year that Aldridge Gardens takes on a beautiful different look.

The leaves start to change and the most photographed tree in Hoover, our Ginkgo tree, begins to turn magnificent golden colors. The leaves fall immediately after they turn, so if you want to see it you have to act quickly.

The Taste of Hoover is Thursday, October 10th, and our lineup of Hoover restaurants is very impressive. We have quite a few new restaurants that will be here this year along with our returning restaurants. Here is a sampling of participants and I am sure by the time this is in print there will be many more: Tre Luna, CakEffect, Bare Naked Noodles, The Whole Scoop, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Simply Infused, Jim ‘N Nick’s, Gourmet Pantry, The Happy Catering Company, Savoie Catering, The Culinary and Hospitality Institute of Jefferson State Community College, International Wines, Back Forty Beer, Royal Cup, Coca Cola, Chattanooga Whiskey, Bruno Hospitality, Merk’s Tavern & Grill at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham – Wynfrey Hotel and Edible Arrangements.

I hope everyone will join us for a beautiful event, under the stars at Aldridge Gardens. Tickets are available online at aldridgegardens.com. Cost is $50.00 non-members and $45 members.

Also, please don’t forget Aldridge Gardens for your holiday events. The beautifully decorated Aldridge House is the perfect venue for all corporate or personal holiday functions! Call Amanda Baker at 205.682.8019 for more information.

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

Bird Walk

Saturday, October 12 and Saturday, November 16 The final Bird Walk of the year will be in November. Aldridge Gardens is one of the hottest birding sites in the Birmingham metro area. Dr. Richard Ryel and his wife Patricia lead a group of 14 (Members Only!) around the Gardens spotting as many as 28 different species of birds.

The October walk is October 12, and the final walk of 2019 is November 16.

All walks start at 8am and last two hours. Please register on-line as space is limited to 14 member participants.

Gifts of Art

Thursday, December 5 Christmas is fast approaching, and gift buying will soon be in full frenzy. Searching for that place where you can find UNIQUE, ONE OF A KIND, AFFORDABLE gifts all in ONE place? If so, Aldridge Gardens’ Annual Gifts of Art is THE place to shop!

December 5 from 9am until 7pm. the Gardens will have wonderful, one-of-a-kind items from 14 local artists. You will find works in glass, wood, and ceramics, as well as jewelry and metal work. The items average an affordable $50, so there is something for everyone, making this a unique, one-spot shopping experience.

Holiday refreshments will also be served!

Veterans’ Memorial Arbor and Pentagon Plaza Dedication Monday, November 4

On November 4, from 9:30am-10am, Aldridge Gardens will re-dedicate our Veterans’ Memorial Arbor and Pentagon Plaza. This is the third re-dedication of this incredible addition to the Gardens.

The ceremony will begin at the Arbor and Plaza, and a reception will follow in the Aldridge House.

Our special guest this year will be Major General David Burford.

General Burford’s military service began in 1973, and began his current joint assignment as Deputy Commander for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs, United States Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Base Florida in January 2007. In late 2009, he was also asked to serve concurrently as Special Assistant to the Chief, National Guard Bureau, Pentagon, Washington, District of Columbia. We are very excited to have General Burford speak at the VMA Re-dedication!

Come early—the early morning views of the Arbor are spectacular!

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All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Lender. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify.

Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval.

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34 October/November 2019

Halloween Spooktacular Something spooky this way comes…it’s Halloween at the Hoover Library! Crisp air, falling leaves, scarves, pumpkin spice, hot tea—99 percent of librarians agree, the Halloween season cannot be beat. If you didn’t already know, Halloween is a major deal here at the library. Our staff loves dressing up in costumes and creating spooky festivities for all to enjoy. How does this ghoulish greatness come to pass, you ask? Gaze into my crystal ball.

Every year we throw an epic Halloween celebration for hundreds of kids and their grown-ups—and when I say epic, I mean EPIC. We reopen the library after hours, magically transforming the entire Library Specialist @HPLkids building into a giant Halloween party from 7-9 p.m. I’m talking largerthan-life decorations and costumes. Our director, Amanda Borden, actually taught herself how to walk on stilts for a 10-foot-tall costume on not one, but two, separate occasions.

The celebration includes festivities for all ages: Character meet-and-greets, crafts, games, music and refreshments. We go completely over the top, and the children love it. For them, there is something unforgettably magical about dressing up and coming to the library on a brisk autumn night for an interactive and immersive Halloween experience. The only people who may have more fun than the kids are the library staff members.

Seeing the children and their families making memories is one of the most rewarding parts of our jobs.

The library has a different Halloween-themed celebration every year: Fairy Tales, Monsters, Superheroes and even an ode to Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas. This year, we are getting into the Halloween spirit with, well, Spirits. Our ghostthemed Halloween Spooktacular will take place Oct. 25. Expect to see all of your favorite ghouls, from the Scooby Doo gang to the Addams family. And, it’s free.

Our celebration doesn’t end there. We happen to be one of the hottest trick-or-treating spots in town. Join us on Halloween day, Oct. 31, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. and take a trick-or-treat tour throughout the library with your little ones. We’ll give you a map of about 20 sweet stops so your kiddos can strut their stuff and collect their treats, rain or shine. And hey, while you’re here, check out a spooky book to cuddle up with back home. After all, the Hoover Library does put the “BOO” in books!

Alyssa Jewell

SCHOOL

&SPORTS

IN IT TO WIN IT

The members of local Wiffle ball leagues aren’t just here to socialize.

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS BY LAUREN WINTER AND CONTRIBUTED HooversMagazine.com 35

On a sunny afternoon in Ross Bridge or Bluff Park, you might hear the crack of a bat or an umpire shout “Safe!” But it’s not at a baseball or softball game.

It’s Wiffle ball, and if you don’t think the teams from each community take these competitions seriously, you haven’t been to a game yet.

The idea for the community leagues began separately around four years ago. “Our ladies league in Ross Bridge started back in spring 2016 as more of a social league, where anyone who

36 October/November 2019

could play would show up and we would draw teams and play a game of wiffle ball,” Holly Chaney says.

After the first season, the interest in the league ramped up, and Ross Bridge developed an official league with teams in spring 2017.

Each competitive team is made up of between

12-15 players. The 2019 teams – the Belles & Wiffles, Baby Got Bats, Wiffle While You Work and Pitchin’ Fits – played a summer season bracket with the Pitchin’ Fits winning the championship.

Parisa Dudley, a player for Belles & Wiffles, says there are many reasons why she plays. “Some say it’s for my love of the game as I played softball from a young age up through high school, but the most important reason that I play is to set an example for my 9-year-old son, who also plays competitive sports in Hoover,” she says. “I still feel like there are good values and life lessons to be learned when playing in a team sport.”

Along with the competitive teams, Ross Bridge still has the social league, now called Social Butterflies, and whoever wants to play on a given afternoon meets and breaks up into teams. “It’s great for ladies who want to play but can’t make the commitment to a team for the season,” Holly says.

On Shades Mountain, another league began to grow in Bluff Park. Holly’s aunt, Sherrie Roberts, and her sons spent many weekend afternoons on the field and playground at the Fresh Air Farm on Park Avenue. “We all love the movies ‘The Sandlot’ and ‘A League of Their Own,’ and it made me wonder, ‘Could we host a Wiffle ball league here?’”

Starting from scratch, Sherrie contacted Catherine Goudreau, director of the Fresh Air Farm, to see what the possibility would be of hosting a league at the Farm. “I thought I’d gauge interest on the Bluff Park United Facebook Group.” The response was a resounding yes. The Bluff Park Women’s Wiffle Ball League hosted its season opener at the Fresh Air Farm in June.

Thankfully, Sherrie says several ladies stepped up not only to play but to volunteer. “Kim Barber and Aimee Martin complete the Commission for our league,” she says. And you can’t have a game if you don’t have an umpire, so Bluff Park’s Robin Schultz donned his umpire’s gear for the regular season.

Bluff Park’s league opened with six teams: The Salty Pitches, Pitch Please, Wiffling Dixies, The Wendy Peffercorns, Dunder Wifflin and Diamond Divas. Each team, consisting of 15 members each, also played a bracket season with the Salty Pitches winning the championship. “The players cover a broad range in age from early 20s to late 50s— some athletic and some eager for physical activity,

HooversMagazine.com 37

some familiar with the game and some eager to learn,” Sherrie says.

Haley Snowden, who plays for the Wendy Peffercorns, says she joined the league to meet other families in Bluff Park and get some exercise.

“I chose to join because it was a way to get more active after having a baby that would be more fun than working out,” she says. “It is really a way to bring people together. It’s fellowship. It could even be an opportunity for outreach. Sunday afternoons have gotten more fun for sure.”

Anna Chatterton says the league reminds her of when she played softball. “I have played softball my whole life, so it really brings me back to that time. I also love playing with people from the community and meeting people from Bluff Park that I didn’t know already.” Anna plays for the Diamond Divas.

Sherrie says the Fresh Air Farm is the perfect setting for Bluff Park’s league. “It is beautiful, downhome and in the heart of Bluff Park. But, truly, once I learned about the charitable work that they do for children and that a league using the facility could include a charitable component, that’s when my enthusiasm kicked into high gear,” she says. “Playing Wiffle ball for fun and getting to know your neighbors is beautiful enough, but add the fact that we can contribute to an institution that’s been in Bluff Park for almost 100 years, and it’s simply magical.”

HOOVER CROWN “When the Bluff Park league took off this year, we thought it would be so much fun to get the teams from both communities together to play each other,” Holly says. Thus, the two leagues established the Hoover Wiffle Crown tournament to be played at the Hoover Sports Park Center. The tournament was also sponsored by Anna Price at Insurance Facilities and Jason Dailey from Realty South.

“We decided to do two games, one game between the champions of each league and an all-star game made up of players from each of the teams that did not make the championship game,” Holly explains.

“The tournament is an exciting addition this year because it allows ladies from all the teams to come together and represent their amazing communities.”

38 October/November 2019

Women from the Ross Bridge and Bluff Park Wiffle ball leagues compete in the Hoover Wiffle Crown tournament this summer.

The Bluff Park All-Stars beat the Ross Bridge AllStars in the 2019 Hoover Wiffle Crown All-Star game on Sunday, Aug. 18 by one run, making the final score 24-23.

In the championship game, the No. 1 teams from both neighborhoods’ regular seasons faced each other. Ross Bridge’s Pitchin’ Fits won over Bluff Park’s Salty Pitches. The Pitchin’ Fits took an early lead over the Salty Pitches, finishing with a 29-8 victory.

From season openers to the Hoover Wiffle Crown, the camaraderie and community spirit shines from the “wiffling” ladies. “I have lived in Bluff Park my whole life, and I can’t remember another activity that has brought all walks of life together like this has,” Anna Price says.

“I have met so many amazing ladies through Wiffle ball,” Holly adds. “Some I knew because our kids play sports together or go to the same school; however, playing in the league has allowed us to really get to know one another, instead of being someone’s mom or a familiar face. We’re friends now.”

Sherrie agrees and also notes how encouraging it is to have so many people pitch in (pun intended).

“There have been so many individuals and community businesses volunteering their time, resources and making donations to make this all possible.”

Let Caliber help you get ready for your next Upland adventure 2822 Central Ave. Homewood. Al. 35209 Phone 987-5800 www.caliberxl.com HooversMagazine.com 39

SCHOOL & SPORTS

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Paris Morris

Spain Park High School Volleyball Player PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Paris Morris knows exactly what she wants to achieve with her SPHS volleyball team members this year.

Paris, 17, has played volleyball since the seventh grade. Her main position is middle, but she will play outside this year. Her hobbies off the court include working out and shopping. We chatted with Paris to find out more about her goals for her senior season.

What are your personal goals for this season, and after high school?

My personal goal this year is to lead my team to regionals then onto state. After high school I plan to further my education and volleyball career at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and then go on to law school.

What are your pre-match rituals?

We pray as a team, then I personally set goals to achieve during each match.

How has playing volleyball impacted your life?

Volleyball has taught me how to collaborate with others, depending on my team and having them depend on me. I have also made lasting friendships, and volleyball helps to keep me fit!

Who inspires you as a person or as an athlete, and why?

I’m inspired by my family and my faith.

My parents drive me to be better every day, keep me grounded and support me in What are some accomplishments you and everything I do. My faith reassures me that God is always with me and has a plan for my your teammates are proud of?

We are especially proud of making it to life.

The Heart Knows There Is Only One Right Choice

Paid for by John & Melody Greene

40 October/November 2019

regionals last season for the first time in our volleyball school history!

&DRINK

FOOD

DATE NIGHT

Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen is the Mooney family’s grand entrance onto the restaurant scene.

BY ANNE RILEY PHOTOS BY SARA WALKER AND CONTRIBUTED HooversMagazine.com 41

B

Brian and Erin Mooney always knew that if they ever opened a restaurant, they would do it for their children—a loveable brood of three that inspired the name Tre Luna, which is Italian for Three Moons.

The “little Mooneys,” as Erin calls them, are now 14, 12 and 7, but even though they’re not so little anymore, they still inspire their restaurant-owner parents daily.

In fact, family is a big reason that Tre Luna Bar and

42 October/November 2019

Kitchen happened in the first place. Brian and Erin, who met in South Florida, moved back to Birmingham after getting engaged so that they could be close to family. They had both been working at a restaurant in Florida, where Brian was a line cook and Erin was a waitress. They met on the job, fell in love, and the rest is history.

As a bonus reason to return to the Magic City, Brian

was pursuing an opportunity to further his blossoming culinary career at Bottega—but he had always dreamed of owning his own restaurant. The dream began to come true when the couple had the opportunity to buy an established catering company, which turned into the beginning of Tre Luna.

The next six years brought steadily increasing success, and slowly but surely, the Mooneys realized that owning their own restaurant might be feasible, after all. A friend told them about the development of The Village at Brock’s Gap, and something about the location called to Erin and Brian as a place to finally do what they always wanted to do: open a restaurant all their own.

“We felt it was a great fit for us and we signed the lease on a prayer,” Erin says of the Brock’s Gap location. “We wanted to create a fine dining experience with a casual feel. We wanted to offer a date night restaurant and bar for special nights, and a gathering space for our community.”

And that is exactly what they’ve done. Those who choose Tre Luna for their night out can expect a cozy, trendy environment that lends itself to a great time for couples, groups and families. The menu boasts handmade pastas, locally sourced produce and Italian-American comfort foods.

“I am very excited about offering pizza from the wood burning oven,” Erin says. “Brian’s pizza crust has amazing flavor. I also love our braised beef short ribs, spinach and artichoke dip, and white chocolate bread pudding.”

As magical as the food might sound, the experience of watching their dream restaurant come together was the high point of opening Tre Luna for the Mooneys. The space was designed by Christine Botthof, and watching the weekly renovation progress was a delight that Brian and Erin will never forget.

But there are challenges, too, of course; building a strong staff and staying involved in the day-to-day operations can be tough when raising a family.

Thankfully, the restaurant business has a way of livening things up at just the right time—a truth the Mooneys experienced recently when a couple got engaged at Tre Luna.

“It was so very exciting,” Erin says of the special

HooversMagazine.com 43

44 October/November 2019

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Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen Owner and Chef Brian Mooney

moment. “I think our space is beautiful and romantic, and I hope we have many more engagement celebrations here!”

Given how hard Brian and Erin have worked—and continue to work—to make Tre Luna a beautiful gathering space for the community, there’s a good chance they’ll see special moments in their restaurant for years to come. The couple values service above all else, and they do whatever it takes to give their guests the best experience possible.

We strive daily to provide the best locally sourced food and the best service possible,” Erin says. “Our motto is to have a servant’s heart. We want our community to feel at home and special.”

Part of making that community feel loved is providing jobs, which the Mooneys feel honored to do. They want people to be able to come to work in a loving, supportive environment, and to do work that is valuable and productive.

“We can’t wait to see what our journey has in store for us,” Erin says. “We believe this has all been God’s plan. It is not easy pulling off owning two businesses and raising a family. We owe it all to God.” Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen is located at 1021 Brocks Gap Parkway, Suite 145. For more information, visit trelunabarandkitchen.com or call (205) 538-5866.

“Thank you for changing my life!”

- Randal

“I have a successful business and a family; the life I never dreamed of having, I now have.”

Randal lost everything because of his addictions. After two suicide attempts, he came to the Mission where he was able to change his life.

Give, and help change a life today!

JimmieHaleMission.com • (205) 323-5878 HooversMagazine.com 45

WILDFLOWER MARTINI Tre Luna’s beloved cocktail, the Wildflower Martini, is made with Hendricks Gin, Créme de Violette, Cointreau, and a little simple syrup. It stays true to its name by delighting patrons with its beautiful violet color, including a tiny purple wildflower that floats at the top.

WHAT’S IN IT .75 ounces Hendricks Gin .75 ounces Créme de Violette .75 ounces Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice Splash of Simple Syrup

46 October/November 2019

FOOD & DRINK

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

David and Joe Maluff

Full Moon Bar-B-Que Owners PHOTO BY EMILY SPARACINO

These barbecue brothers have been in the restaurant business for more than 25 years, and their love of the work rivals only their love of the barbecue meats and homemade sides served at Full Moon Bar-B-Que. We caught up with the Maluff duo for an update on their newly renovated restaurant on U.S. 280, plus a little history lesson on how the business started—and the story behind that nowfamous moon face logo.

How did Full Moon Bar-B-Que—and its famous moon face logo—form years ago?

Pat James is the founder of Full Moon, which was called Pat James’ Full Moon Bar-B-Que in 1986. We purchased it from Pat in 1997 and just called ourselves “Full Moon Bar-B-Que.” Pat came up with the logo, moon face and name; all we did is enhance the moon to where it is today. The moon on the wall of the Southside location is a nice landmark.

What sets Full Moon Bar-B-Que apart from other barbecue joints?

We still have an open wood-burning pit in all of our restaurants. You see the pit with our fresh meats cooking. We still do

things old-fashioned, and we spend money on each store on the wood, the pit masters and the pit itself. It’s true to what real barbecue is.

What was your mindset after the fire at this location in May 2018?

We knew we were going to rebuild. We gutted it out completely from head to toe, down to the concrete, and started fresh.

We expanded the kitchen, and we have a baking room now. We also have kegs and coolers for draft beers. We can have different flights of beers, domestic and craft. We’re just glad we’re back open on Highway 280 for our employees and customers.

What are a couple of your favorite memories from working here over the years?

280 has been very good to us. It’s been enjoyable. We have some great, great customers, very loyal. We’re in our stores every day; we’re not absentee owners.

Just for fun, what are your personal favorite menu items?

I (David) love the smoked turkey, and there’s not a day I don’t eat chow chow.

You can’t get that at other restaurants.

I (Joe) like the turkey – the crisp, charred outside.

For more information about Full Moon Bar-B-Que, visit Fullmoonbbq.com.

HooversMagazine.com 47

48 October/November 2019

&STYLE

HOME

ON THE CREST

Extensive renovations gave Chad and Patti Hagwood a home stunning enough to match their view.

BY EMILY SPARACINO PHOTOS BY BRENDON PINOLA HooversMagazine.com 49

C

Chad and Patti Hagwood can look out from their back patio and see their future etched into the surrounding landscape. Anchored to the crest of a mountain in Greystone, the Hagwoods’ home gives them an unobstructed view of the area that feels as if it belongs only to them, a love letter written in the trees and hills skirting their summit. Until a few years ago, they didn’t know they would share this beautiful home and breathtaking view as a married couple.

But now, they can’t fathom being anywhere else.

The Mediterranean-style house is as much a part of the couple’s love story as the hangouts of their youth, namely, the Indian Creek Youth Camp, where they shared their first kiss together as teenagers. They were high school and college sweethearts, but as adults they went their separate ways.

Then, a chance meeting at a restaurant a few years ago brought Chad and Patti back into each other’s worlds. They seemed to pick up right where they left off, as if they were teenage sweethearts again. Chad even still had his Chrysler LeBaron, the car he drove on many of his and Patti’s dates.

When the time was right, Chad knew the only place he could ask Patti to be his wife was at the church camp where it all started and they were married, at long last, this past June.

As the second chapter of their love story took shape, they started thinking about how to refresh the house, which Chad bought and moved into nearly 12 years ago.

“I was drawn to the Mediterranean style,” he says. “I was really enamored with the privacy and the view that initially captivated me.”

The décor inside was dark and suited neither his nor Patti’s personalities. “As a

50 October/November 2019

HooversMagazine.com 51

Den When the curtains are open, it’s hard to look away from the picturesque view. But when you do, you see antiqued mirrors flanking the limestone fireplace in a space that’s both light and airy.

Removing a wall and restructuring the archways to be higher gave Chad the more open atmosphere he wanted in the living room and nearby foyer.

52 October/November 2019

committed bachelor, it never crossed my mind to do anything with it until a few years ago,” he says. “It was comfortable, it served its purpose, but it wasn’t one of my priorities to customize it.”

Chad did have strong feelings about the outside, though. He wanted to take out the old pool and above-ground hot tub, install an infinity pool and add an outdoor kitchen. “It was a massive undertaking, with footers and engineering work that had to be done,” he says. The cypress wood came from Colorado.

The back patio was the first part of the home to be renovated, and it set the stage for the other rooms. “That got the creative juices starting to flow,” he says. “If we can do this out here, why not bring it inside?”

And they did. Renovations took place throughout the house, from the foyer to the living room to the kitchen to the bedrooms.

They worked with Lovette Design+Build on

the interior renovations, and Chad’s friend Mary McWilliams of Mary Mac Interiors in Atlanta designed the outside and inside décor. “It’s comfortable, it’s home, it’s simple, but it’s elegant,” Chad says, before Patti adds “peaceful” to the list. “We wanted a Four Seasons resort feel, and I think they pulled that off masterfully. After you’ve been gone, you can be here and relax and recharge.”

The reimagined home, the Hagwoods say, was worth the wait. “Seeing it through to closure is always fulfilling,” Chad says.

“Everyone on the team brought a lot to the table. Everybody had a role to play.” The team started with just Chad and Patti, who say they intend to enjoy the view from their renovated hideaway on the mountain, side by side, for the rest of their lives. “When you’ve planned what you think is perfect, why would you want to leave?” Patti says. “We love it here.”

Kitchen Neutrals flow from the living room into the kitchen, where quartz countertops provide a palette of gray tones to coordinate with the cabinetry, backsplash and barstools.

HooversMagazine.com 53

Master Bedroom The same white tray ceiling in the dining room appears in the master, just as the same majestic view from the den greets Chad and Patti through the large sliding glass doors in their room. The centerpiece of the room is the water vapor fireplace that emits steam instead of smoke, giving them the cozy ambience they want without the fuss of a wood-burning fireplace.

Master Closet One of Chad and Patti’s favorite spaces in the whole house is the master closet. Built-ins from Design Galleria in Atlanta line the walls and give them ample storage tucked behind a sleek, rich finish.

54 October/November 2019

BEHIND THE SCENES Interior Renovations: Lovette Design+Build Interior Design and

Exterior DĂŠcor: Mary McWilliams

Cabinetry: Design Galleria of Atlanta Refrigerator and Freezer: Viking

Pool and Hot Tub: Elite Pools

Construction

Consultant: Tommy Hagwood

Since 2012

Dining Room A white tray ceiling and lighttoned walls keep this room feeling bright and balanced with the darker tones of the sideboard and table. A built-in wet bar adds visual interest, particularly with its antiqued mirror backsplash.

Lumadentistry.com McCalla / Hoover / Centerville / Montevallo HooversMagazine.com 55

BOSS LADIES LOCAL WOMEN SHARE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO OPEN AND RUN A SMALL BUSINESS—AND HOW THEY BALANCE IT WITH EVERYTHING ELSE.

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS BY GRACE BEDSOLE, DAWN HARRISON AND CONTRIBUTED

56 October/November 2019

You know them. You admire them. You might even be one of them. The women who balance their entrepreneurial goals with the many other hats they wear—wife, mother, sister, friend, volunteer—are inspiring, to say the least. Women from different backgrounds, ages and stages make up part of the economic engine of Hoover, just like their counterparts across the country. Of the many, we would like to share the stories of a few of these hardworking women—and how they balance business and life beautifully.

ANGELA JOHNSTON AND KANDICE PEARSON Steel City Speech Therapists Teaming up in business does not always involve a physical building. Angela Johnston and Kandice Pearson launched their unique speech-language therapy practice, Steel City Speech, last year to serve Hoover and the greater Birmingham-metro area. Angela and Kandice are speechlanguage pathologists who worked several years in area schools. Due to high caseloads and increasing responsibilities, they felt they were not able to adequately serve their students in the best way possible. “We wanted to be able to provide personal, one-on-one services in our clients’ homes and individualize therapy to meet their needs,” Kandice says. “Opening a private practice has given us the opportunity to do just that.”

Steel City Speech provides therapy for children with communication needs – including late talkers, a child with a speech sound disorder, a child with autism, a child with a language disorder or a child who stutters. “Instead of serving our families from a clinic, we go to the child’s home. We believe that children work best in their natural environment, and we like to involve the parents in treatment. We believe outcomes are better and carryover is better when therapy is in the child’s home,” Angela says.

Each day is different when you are a speech pathologist.

Even though their work takes them to clients’ houses for treatment, the work sometimes continues at home. They might do some paperwork or planning during naptime or after bedtime. “During our appointments, we spend our time working on each client’s unique goals. This may look like play-based therapy, repetition of sounds we’re working on or practicing social skills. Another important

part of each session is educating parents on strategies to use in the home and discussing their concerns or insights.

In between appointments, we complete session notes on each client and do any other paperwork that needs to be done. And then it’s off to pick our kids back up,” Angela explains.

As most business owners say, the flexibility that comes with being your own boss is a plus and the Steel City Speech ladies agree. “We both have young children, and we really want to be present in their lives. We still spend some days at home just being a mom, and we spend some days working! It’s the best of both worlds, and we’re able to do that because we set our own schedules.”

For them, drawing distinct boundaries between work and their personal lives is key. “We learned early in the business that if we’re not intentional with our time, the business can quickly monopolize what time we do have,” Angela says. “Now, we try our best to block off specific time to work during the week so we can be fully present in things that matter to us – family, church and time with friends.”

Owning a business has advantages and challenges. “You have to learn through trial and error, and we sometimes pay for those mistakes,” Angela says. “In the beginning, starting up took a lot of time and energy, and while our families have always been supportive, it took sacrifice to take the risks that come with a new business.” In June, Amanda Bell joined the Steel City Speech team as they continue to help children across Hoover and Birmingham find their voices.

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58 October/November 2019

PRUDENCE KAUFFMAN Owner of Dear Prudence Prudence started her business in 2012 and has grown it to four stores – two in Michigan and two in Alabama. Pru, as she is known to her friends, lives in Hoover and wanted her first Alabama store to be close to her home. “We opened our Hoover store last year and our Homewood store in March. I always loved fashion, and it was a dream to have my own shop since I worked retail as a teen.”

Family and health brought Prudence’s business dreams to reality. “It was always on the back burner until I found out I had uterine cancer in 2011,” she says. “My husband said as soon as I got better I was going to make my store Dear Prudence a reality. With his support and encouragement, we opened in June of 2012.”

The shop, Dear Prudence, specializes in helping customers put outfits together to look their best. “It’s like having your own personal stylist,” Prudence says.

“All of our products are on trend and reasonably priced. You don’t have to go broke to look cute. We have something for everyone and get a thrill out of making each customer feel special.”

Being a business owner brings a new and different

experience each day, she says. “I love that I get to be the buyer, help customers, work with staff, even scrub the toilet. Every day is different, and that is my favorite thing about owning my own business.”

She admits managing a business and family life is never dull, and owning your own business can be consuming. Pru describes her calendar as looking like the “apocalypse,” but also says it is fun. “I am lucky to have amazing people working with me. They keep me straight. I have learned to make time for events to give myself a break.”

Much pressure comes with owning a business, Prudence says, and it’s not for the faint of heart.

“There are huge ups and downs. Every decision comes back to you. Some days I am a rock star; other days I can barely tie my shoes.” A typical day for her starts at 6 a.m. After checking her email, walking the dog and getting her daughter off to school, she checks in with her Michigan stores before going to whichever local store needs her. “I usually try to leave around 4 p.m. if I am not the closer; then, I can be home with my family. We usually make dinner and then have some chill time before bed.”

HooversMagazine.com 59

WHITNEY CULPEPPER Owner of Hoover Hometown Pharmacy Growing up, Whitney had a love for pharmacy. Her dad struggled with back issues, so her family frequented their local pharmacy. “I became very intrigued by what they were doing behind that tall counter, and they were always so kind,” she says. “When high school came along, I knew I wanted to get a job at that same local pharmacy. I did and instantly fell in love with the job and the atmosphere and the patients.”

After college, Whitney searched the Birmingham area for the perfect place to open an independent pharmacy. She opened Hoover Hometown Pharmacy on John Hawkins Parkway in August 2016. “Thankfully it’s been a wonderful choice, and we are so glad to not only have a business here, but to live here as well,” she says.

Her business is something she and her husband, Ben, both understand and appreciate. “My husband and I are both pharmacists, so we have to be careful to not talk about pharmacy all the time,” she says, laughing. “But I feel like we have a good balance.”

Catering to patients’ specific needs is also a benefit Whitney doesn’t take for granted. “I get to help my patients even more because I can make my own decisions. If they need a certain product, more than likely I’m going to find a way to get it for them. Owning my own business has also opened so many doors to help me meet so many new people who have become great friends.”

The pharmacy offers a variety of specialty services and perks, including a drive-thru window, free delivery, free coffee, adherence packaging, flavoring for children’s antibiotics, vaccines (including flu, shingles, pneumonia, TDAP, travel vaccines) and B-12 shots.

“We also offer a gift section full of locally made gifts,” she says.

Balancing a business and home life is challenging, but Whitney says time spent with Ben and in faith is key. “I like to work out with my husband in the morning a few days a week,” she says, “Then start the day with breakfast and a devotion. I then go into the pharmacy around 9 and work until 6.”

On many nights after work, Ben cooks dinner for them. They also save certain nights for friends and fellowship. “On Tuesday nights we host a game night small group through our church, and on Sunday nights we host a group of Samford students for dinner and a devotion,” she says. “These are some of our favorite nights, connecting with other believers and also investing in students.”

60 October/November 2019

SYLVIA GONDA Owner of Gameday in Style Boutique Originally from the island of Cyprus, Sylvia Gonda found her way to the United States by way of a college education. “My father, who was an educator himself, insisted that both my sister and I receive a college degree. I flew over 6,000 miles away from my family on my own at the age of 18 to the United States to attend college in upstate New York on a Fulbright Scholarship,” she says. “Since Cyprus has been through many wars, its people lost everything many times, including my family. My father felt that nobody can take an education away from you, and my mother believed that we should also have a personal skill and so she taught me how to sew. Both my parents taught us that everything was within reach if we worked hard at it.”

Sylvia earned her bachelor’s degree in organic chemistry, and earned a full scholarship to graduate school in organic chemistry at Johns Hopkins University.

She worked in cancer research for a number of years in the Washington, D.C. area, where she met her husband. After the Gondas’ two children were born, Sylvia decided to stay home while they were growing up. “I always loved fashion and admired how Parisian women always looked so put together, even on a budget,” she says. “I learned early on to accessorize outfits and got the knack on making outfits look different and unique.”

With her sewing skills and all the time in the world, Sylvia started to make dresses for her daughter to wear to college football games. Her sorority sisters constantly asked her where she got the clothes. Such interest played a role in Sylvia’s decision to start Gameday in Style after her daughter returned from college in July 2014. Demand grew, and with both her children grown, Sylvia was at a point in her life where she wanted to do something fun and be her own boss. “Testing the waters with the gameday dresses, I felt excited and ready to launch it as a business. Fashion was a perfect fit for me and provided me with the opportunity to do something where I can dictate the time spent at work and home, instead of going back to a lab, where I did not have that flexibility.”

Sylvia personally selects everything that comes into

her store. At first, she carried clothing mostly in team colors, but as the store’s popularity grew, she added boutique clothing. “I wanted to have clothes not only from American designers, but I also wanted to offer my customers European fashions in all sizes.”

Accessories are an integral part of an ensemble, too.

“The right accessories are what makes an outfit stand out,” Sylvia says. “Our store has one of the largest selections of handmade jewelry from artisans that I personally have selected from all over the world.”

With many of her family members living abroad, Sylvia says owning her own business has allowed her to combine business with pleasure. “When I travel to markets in the States, my husband usually joins me, and we make it a fun experience. I value his opinion, and we get to spend time together. When I travel abroad to Europe, I always go to London first to visit with my sister. We go together to the European markets to select clothing and accessories that are unique to my store and cannot be found anywhere else.”

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62 October/November 2019

SHELLY BINDER AND KERRY RICKMAN Hoover Shipping Trade and Post Owners Hoover Shipping, as it was previously known, had been around for about 20 years before Shelly Binder bought the business in 2013, and Kerry Rickman bought into the business in 2017. Now known as Hoover Shipping Trade and Post, the facility is one of the only shipping businesses in the area to be grandfathered into having UPS and FedEx at the same location. “The business model was intriguing,” Kerry says. “We are fortunate to be able to offer the services of UPS, FedEx, as well as the postal service all in one location. This allows our customers choices in delivery time and pricing for their packages.

Offering gift items and unique cards helps us cater to customers who want to add ‘a little something extra’ to a package they are shipping.”

Owning their own business was something that both ladies set out to accomplish. “We are not only business partners but also good friends,” Kerry says.

“We have each other’s back. There is flexibility with our schedule because there are two of us. If one of us is out of town, the other takes on the responsibility of the store. We try to work scheduling and day-to-day paperwork around the needs of our families when

possible.”

Hoover Shipping Trade and Post is a unique shipping business. Most likely when you step through the door, a shipping business is not what comes to mind. The boutique-style shop offers gift items, clothing, jewelry, cards, local merchandise and more.

“Having gift items helps us cater to customers who want to add a ‘little something extra’ to a package they are shipping,” Kerry says. “We also offer the services of UPS, FedEx and the postal service all in one location,” Shelly adds. “This allows our customers’ choices in delivery time and pricing for their packages.”

Kerry and Shelly have a full schedule, but they both work to balance the challenges of owning a business and family time. “Finding the perfect worklife balance is probably the biggest challenge for us,” Kerry says. “Shelly has two children and I have three.

They are all involved in sports, community activities and active in their schools. It is a continuous challenge to manage schedules with the needs of the business.” But, as Kerry says, they have each other’s backs.

HooversMagazine.com 63

PHOTO BY ANGELA KAREN

64 October/November 2019

Paying It Forward

When Jim and Cecilia Crandall lost their daughter to ovarian cancer, they decided to honor Laura’s memory by supporting other women, just as she would have.

BY ANNE RILEY | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED In 2009, Laura Crandall Brown entered a clinical trial in Houston, Texas, for ovarian cancer treatment with one thing in mind: Even if the treatment didn’t help her, the discoveries made during the process might save someone else.

Laura passed away later that year at just 25 years old, but her legacy lives on in the form of the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation—an organization that aims to support early detection research of ovarian cancer and to raise awareness of the disease.

“Laura saw many very sick people in Houston,” says Laura’s dad, Jim Crandall. “She always wanted to be able to assist, even if it was just

saying a kind word or sharing a blanket.”

Since the foundation’s beginning more than 10 years ago, Laura’s family and friends have remained true to her passion for helping others who are facing GYN (gynecologic) cancer. The foundation has funded $500,000 in early detection research grants to eight different institutions across the United States, given over $175,000 in direct patient support to women and their families undergoing treatment, and provided items such as transportation, meals, utilities, rent and Christmas gifts for affected families.

“Our mission is made up of three parts: research, awareness and support,” Jim says. “We have

HooversMagazine.com 65

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Laura Crandall Brown and her husband, Walter, leave their wedding reception.

Laura and Doris Moody’s son, Jonathan, pause for a picture at a John Carroll Catholic High School graduation ceremony.

Laura, left, sits with her sister, Emma, and mother, Cecilia. Laura, a gifted artist, was known for her paintings.

educated thousands through health fairs, speaking engagements and media campaigns about the signs and symptoms of GYN cancer and how to recognize these and seek treatment.”

When the foundation finds out about a patient who has received a diagnosis of gynecologic cancer, they send her a comfort care bag as she enters treatment. More than 600 of these bags are prepared every year for distribution in Birmingham, Huntsville and Mobile.

“Laura would love the fact that the foundation has grown over the last 10 years since her death, and that it has helped so many others with GYN cancer,” says Laura’s mother, Cecilia Crandall. “She would be so happy that her name and legacy live on through her foundation.”

The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation is the only nonprofit organization in the state of Alabama whose research is focused exclusively on early 66 October/November 2019

detection of ovarian cancer. So far, more than $400,000 has been contributed to this cause. It’s a far more common diagnosis than most people think: A woman dies from gynecologic cancer every 17 seconds. This year, more than 110,000 women will be diagnosed—and 32,000 will die.

Communicating the symptoms to women of all ages is a massive priority for the foundation, who believes that “without a test, awareness is best.”

Once the symptoms have been identified, the patient is able to undergo an effective screening test for early detection, which could quite literally save her life.

The Crandalls could tell myriad stories about the effect their daughter’s legacy has had on others, but Jim remembers one story in particular about an elderly woman who was battling GYN cancer but had no way to drive herself to treatment.

Her home in rural Alabama was located about 80

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Every year, the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation holds the Head Over Teal 5K/10K and Family Fall Festival to raise money for early detection research for ovarian cancer.

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South Haven Health and Rehabilitation, LLC 3141 Old Columbiana Road | Hoover, AL 35226 PH: 205-822-1580 | FX: 205-823-1587

PHOTOS BY LLOYD BEARD

miles from UAB, and she was raising a disabled daughter and caring for a grandson, which left her unable to work. And on top of all that, she didn’t even have a car.

“We assisted her with a volunteer driver to take her to treatment for many months,” Jim says.

“After treatment, she applied for a grant that we award each year to women in treatment or who have just completed treatment. The grant enabled her to purchase a reliable used car and gave her the freedom she needed.”

The foundation hosts three annual events to raise more money for early detection research: the Taste of Teal Gala, the Head Over Teal 10K/5K and the Get Busy Fighting Golf Tournament. Each event brings hundreds of attendees each year.

They also have a junior board that consistently reaches out to the public, and many corporations and businesses partner with the foundation, as well.

2019 marks the foundation’s 10th year of existence, and the group is celebrating a decade of hope. “Laura would want you to know that you are not alone when battling this disease,” says Doris

Moody, a volunteer with the foundation. “We are working hard to not only find that early detection test that she hoped would help the next person affected by this disease, but also to support those who are fighting this disease emotionally and financially.”

Everyone who joins in the cause makes a tremendous difference for the foundation, especially the volunteers that help put on events, assist in facilitating exhibits and spread the word about early detection.

“Without the tremendous support of others we would not exist,” Jim says. “I wish I could express to everyone all the good that they have been able to accomplish.”

“It has been a way to pay it forward to help others, just like so many helped Laura,” Cecilia adds. “It’s helped turn such a negative thing in our lives into a positive and humbling opportunity to be there for others.”

For more information about the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation, visit Thinkoflaura. org.

HooversMagazine.com 69

James DeLano and his service dog, Lennie, stand next to a sign for Ronald McDonald House Charities, one of many causes James champions.

70 October/November 2019

A Full Life

No health setbacks are going to stop James DeLano from greeting every day with optimism and a desire to serve his community.

BY EMILY SPARACINO | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED Ask anyone who knows 14-year-old James DeLano to describe him, and that person is bound to talk about his positivity. “James’s loving smile and warm hugs are the outward signs of his strength of character and goodness of his heart,” reads his biographical excerpt from The Oley Foundation’s national conference program this summer, where James was named the foundation’s Child of the Year. These words alone count as high praise, but considering the health limitations this Hoover teenager faces on a daily basis, they seem only to scratch the surface of who he is and how deeply he cares for others.

James was diagnosed with severe Eosinophilic

Esophagitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus, when he was 4 years old, and got a feeding tube the next year. When he was 6, James was diagnosed with a long-term disorder called mitochondrial disease, or mito, which occurs when a person’s mitochondria don’t produce enough energy for his body to function properly. “When James was diagnosed with EoE, we were relieved because we just wanted answers to why he was throwing up on a daily basis,” Victoria DeLano, James’s mom, says. “When he was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease, we were not surprised because his doctors in Cincinnati (at the time), Atlanta and the Carolinas had prepared us.”

HooversMagazine.com 71

James, left, with his family members, Jim, Victoria and Amelia DeLano.

James compared living with mitochondrial disease to running a household on an AA battery.

“I have to be cognizant of how I manage my energy throughout each day,” James says. “If I overdo anything, I not only pay with exhaustion that can last for weeks, but I also have had significant impact on my organs in the past.” Four years ago, James had intestinal failure, liver disease, signs of bone marrow failure and significant problems with his heart rate and blood pressure. He had to be on IV therapy for 23 hours a day and relied on his wheelchair almost all of the time. Now, he stays on a strict regimen to prevent problems, starting with a round of medications when he wakes up and another round before bed. “I am fed through a feeding tube through the night to help provide enough of what my body needs and to avoid fasting,” he says. “All of my activities are well planned in advance because I have to be very careful with my energy expenditures.”

As if the first two diagnoses weren’t challenging enough, James and his family grappled with yet another major setback three years ago, when he 72 October/November 2019

was diagnosed with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocystosis, a “cancer-like disease,” as James describes it, that came on suddenly and caused him to go into multi-organ failure with fevers over 108 degrees within three days of the onset of his symptoms. “The day after I was diagnosed with HLH, I was put on a ventilator and was in a coma,” James says. “It took months for me to recover, and my doctors still watch my labs closely for a reactivation of the HLH.” Victoria echoes James’s summation, describing the news of this latest diagnosis as shocking. “We had seen his health decline over the previous year, and James’s pediatrician had already counseled us to take a final trip together as a family,” she says.

“We all assumed it was the normal progression of mitochondrial disease. His hematologist was preparing us for the worst, and with his history of liver involvement from his mitochondrial disease, we were not surprised as his labs worsened.” They were, however, shocked when they were told he had HLH, as two families they had befriended in the rare disease community had just lost their sons

James holds his Rare Disease Day Proclamation with Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato and the Hoover City Council.

“

He once told us that he would not change a thing because this is the plan that God has for him.

James has taught us how to live a better life.

”

–Victoria DeLano

of similar age to HLH after long progressions of their other diseases. “We knew exactly what the prognosis of HLH looked like and felt at peace that no matter what the outcome, it was all in God’s plan.”

But true to form, James rebounded from the setback, and eventually went back to doing his school work and community service. “I am amazed and overwhelmed with pride every single day,” his mother says. “Many of the things James has gone through have been heartbreaking.”

Heartbreaking might not be a strong enough word for it, though. “My husband and I have been given the choice to stop care and let him go,” she continues. “We have held him as he bled out and a medical team worked on him for hours to stop the bleeding. We have watched as most of his friends left his side because he was so sick. We have fought for him to have access to public places when using his wheelchair or with his service dog. We have fought for him to have access to a public education. We have fought for him to have access to good healthcare and services, something that is tremendously HooversMagazine.com 73

difficult for those living with rare and complex diseases.”

Despite everything, James maintains hope, joy, strength, courage and gratitude—and offers these priceless gifts to his family and others he crosses paths with each day. “We are most proud of his faith in God and peace with the life that he has been given,” Victoria says. “He once told us that he would not change a thing because this is the plan that God has for him. James has taught us how to live a better life.”

Being homeschooled allows James to better manage his energy and keep his overall health more stable. He is in the ninth grade in Evangel Christian School’s homeschool program. He is involved in the ECS Key Club and High School Choir, as well as the Contenders Debate and Speech Team. “I am able to progress much more quickly in my studies and enjoy the academic challenge,” he says. “Having the opportunity to complete my academics at home allows me to focus my time away from home on activities I enjoy.”

He rides and volunteers with Special Equestrians, volunteers at the Hoover Public Library, is an active member of the Shades Mountain Community Church high school youth group, swims and exercises at the Hoover YMCA, reads, does woodcarving, plays video games and spends ample amounts of time with his service dog, Lennie. All of this is possible because of nutrition therapy. “I have had a G or GJ feeding tube for nine years and had a central line for four years,” James says. “While I am now eating, my diet is extremely limited and requires me to eat and drink often. I am still on a feeding pump through the night to get what my body requires, and we work closely with my dietitian to help with my restricted diet.

“The most challenging obstacle for me was the lack of wider understanding about rare diseases and how they not only impact day to day life, but also forced me to face the idea of my own mortality,” he says.

74 October/November 2019

Victoria says their family is extremely thankful for the equipment – the feeding tube and central line – that have helped James be as strong as possible and do the things that enrich his life.

“James is a perfect example of someone who is thriving thanks to that piece of plastic,” she says.

“My husband and I are both involved in his nutrition therapy.”

James credits his family, friends and four-legged sidekick, Lennie, with helping him stay motivated, positive and active. “I like giving back to the community because of what so many people have done for me,” he says. His volunteer service includes annual donation drives for the Ronald McDonald House of the Carolinas (his family’s home away from home), helping his family raise service dog puppies in training for Canine Companions for Independence, organizing blood drives in his community and speaking in public to share his story. In addition to receiving The Oley Foundation’s Child of the Year award, James was nominated for the Innovator/Advocator and Celebration of Life awards. He is working to complete the Congressional Award, and accomplishing his goals in the areas of volunteer community service, physical fitness, personal

James shares his story at the Special Equestrians gala.

development and an exploration trip. He plans to become a librarian when he is finished with school.

After experiences that would test the perseverance of even the strongest adult, James is not just living, but thriving. “He inspires me most in his faith and his ability to live in the moment,” Victoria says.

“He does not look at the past and does not fear the future. James takes life one day at a time, living it to the fullest. He surrounds himself with those who lift him up and serves when he sees a need.”

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Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce C O N N E C T I O N S

October/ November 2019 Events Thursday, October 3, 2019

Business After Hours 5:30 pm-7:00 pm Embassy Suites by Hilton, Birmingham Hoover 2960 John Hawkins Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35244 Hotel: 205-985-9994

Save the Date!

This month we will hear from Mike Vest, Executive Director of the Addiction Prevention Coalition and the Shelby County Commissioner.

Please make your reservations no later than Monday, October 14th, by calling 988-5672, or emailing lisa@hooverchamber.org.

Networking begins at 11:15

Mike Vest

a.m.

The Luncheon is $20.00 with reservations.

Cancellations are accepted until the morning of the luncheon, but those that make reservations and do not attend will be charged.

Our luncheons are held at the Hoover Country Club, 3140 Club Dr, Birmingham, AL 35226.

Recent Ribbon Cuttings

Thursday, October 10, 2019 Coffee & Contacts 7:30am-9:00am The Brass Bear Antique Mall 2652 Valleydale Road Birmingham, AL 35244 (205) 566-0601 (work)

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Monthly Membership Luncheon 11:15 am-1:00 pm Speaker: Mike Vest, Executive Director of Addiction Prevention Coalition Sponsor: St. Vincent’s Health System $20 per person; We take Cash, Check or Credit Cards RSVP at www.hooverchamber.org

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Master Scarsella’s Tae Kwon Do Master Scarsella’s Owners Justin and Jessica Scarsella, was joined by students, friends, Hoover City Mayor Frank Brocato and City Councilman John Lyda and Hoover Chamber Ambassadors for the Grand Opening Celebration of their second location at 3714 Old Columbiana Road, Suite B, Hoover 35226.

Master Scarsella’s offers classes for a wide variety of students of all ages.

BumperNets BumperNets Owner Homer Brown was joined by his staff, friends, fellow Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce members and Hoover City Councilman Gene Smith and Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato as he celebrated his 20th Anniversary for BumperNets! This familyfriendly venue began as a storefront inside the Brookwood Mall and then later moved to the City of Hoover. BumperNets offers Ping Pong tables, pool tables and all the accessories.

You can even be a “pin ball wizard”! Stop by BumperNets on the first floor of the Galleria for your special occasion or just for a few minutes of fun!

The Crafter’s House The Crafter’s House owner Shawn Hicks was joined by family, friends, Hoover City Mayor Frank Brocato, Hoover Chamber Ambassadors and The Shelby County Chamber for the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at The Crafter’s House. Located at 3417 A Old Columbiana Road, The Crafter’s House offers a variety of arts and crafts activities all designed to engage that creative side of your brain!

Bava Java Owners Nathan and Wendi Parvin were joined by Brad, their VP of Operations, friends, patrons, City of Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato and fellow Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce members as they celebrated their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Coffee & Contacts Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel 1000 Riverchase Galleria Hoover, AL 35244 (205) 987-1600 (work)

Thursday,November 21, 2019

Monthly Membership Luncheon 11:15 am-1:00 pm Speaker:Tony Cooper, Executive Director of The Jimmie Hale Mission Sponsor: The Jimmie Hale Mission $20 per person; We take Cash, Check or Credit Cards RSVP at www.hooverchamber.org ***For a complete list of events, visit www.hooverchamber.org***

3000 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA 76 October/November 2019

HOOVER, AL 35244

Buff City Soap Company Buff City Soap Company Owner Jeff Collier was joined by his staff, friends and fellow Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Members as they celebrated the 2nd location in Alabama with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Riverchase Career Connection Center with Hoover City Schools It was a GREAT day for the future workforce of Hoover, AL!! A Ribbon Cutting was held today for the new Riverchase Career Connection Center!

Pursuant to the By-laws of the Hoover Chamber of Commerce.

THIS HEREBY SERVES AS NOTICE FOR SEATS ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Abingdon at Lake Wilburn Dwight Sandlin with Signature Homes was proud to introduce the Abingdon at Lake Wilborn. Abingdon is the area’s first Active Adult Community set within a master plan with resort-style amenities.

Cricket Wireless We are excited to announce that Cricket Wireless has opened their new location at 3081 Lorna Road Suite 109 Hoover, Alabama 35216 (205) 413-3910 (work)

OFC Workscapes Owner Steve Gathings was joined by his team at OFC Workscapes and fellow Hoover Area and Shelby Chamber members as they all cut the ribbon on the brand new location of their showroom and warehouse now located at 246 Cahaba Valley Parkway, Pelham, AL 35124!

Alabama Power Employees Credit Union Derrick Ragland with Alabama Power Employees Credit Union was joined by Board Members, APCO staff and fellow Hoover Area and Shelby County Chamber members as they broke ground on their newest location at Tattersall Park Drive, Hoover, Alabama 35242.

The CBD Oil Store Your CBD Store Owner PJ was joined by Store Manager Lisa and Kayla from the 280 store as they celebrated the Grand Opening of their newest store in Hoover! Located in the same shopping center as Jubilee Joe’s.

Birmingham Pets Magazine Bham Pets Owner and Publisher Matthew Allen was joined by family, friends and fellow Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce as he celebrated the launch of his newest publication, Bham Pets. As he explains in his introductory letter, pets are now members of the family and their parents spend an average of $70 billion per year in the U.S.

205 - 988 - 5672

The Officers and the Board of Directors shall be elected at a meeting of the members called for the purpose. A nominating committee of not less than five members shall be appointed by the President at least thirty days prior to the election, whose duty it shall be to nominate from the members of the Chamber one member for each office to be voted on and only as many nominees for the Board of Directors as there are vacancies. Said committee shall file a list of the nominees recommended with the Executive Director not later than fifteen days before the election. The Executive Director shall mail to all members of the Chamber, ten days prior to the election, a list of the nominees recommended by the nominating committee. Names of other members may be placed in nomination from the floor at the meeting called for the election of officers and the Board of Directors. The nominees for each office or term who receive the highest number of votes shall be declared elected.

WWW.HOOVERCHAMBER.ORG HooversMagazine.com 77

New Members

AS OF SEPTEMBER 6, 2019 uClastran 7/1/2019 uStar Asset Security 7/1/2019 uAlphagraphics 7/1/2019 uPresbyterian Home for Children 7/1/2019 uValleydale Church 7/1/2019 uLong-Lewis Ford Lincoln 7/8/2019 uNBC-13 WVTM 7/9/2019 uBertolone’s 7/9/2019 uEvenStill 7/9/2019 uASPIRE Sports Institute 7/10/2019 uLatitude at Riverchase 7/12/2019 uIron Mountain Insurance 7/12/2019 uLAH Real Estate 7/15/2019 uReemo Wireless Inc. dba Cricket Wireless 7/15/2019 uLAH Real Estate~Jessica Daviston 7/16/2019 uFinance of America Mortgage LLC 7/16/2019 uDrayer Physical Therapy Institute 7/16/2019 uDiscovery United Methodist Church 7/16/2019 uPICKENS PC REPAIR LLC 7/18/2019 uIn Time Staffing 7/18/2019 uBold Marketing Solutions 7/19/2019 uDown In Front Productions, LLC 7/22/2019 uPeskies Pest Control 7/24/2019 uLandmark Birmingham Realty Group 7/29/2019

uEthan Allen 7/29/2019 uTeriyaki Madness 8/1/2019 uWind Creek Hospitality 8/1/2019 uSouthern Coin and Collectibles 8/1/2019 uOdyssey Early Schools, Inc.~ Inverness 8/6/2019 uYour Transformed Life Coaching 8/8/2019 uPerfect Note - TK Productions & Events 8/8/2019 uEugene’s Hot Chicken 8/13/2019 uFresh Managed IT 8/13/2019 uTopaz Express, LLC 8/15/2019 uSpec Tax Services 8/15/2019 uAlabama Rental Managers LLC 8/15/2019 uCasual Pint 8/16/2019 u150 & Main 8/16/2019 uTemperaturePro Birmingham 8/20/2019 uCici’s Pizza 8/20/2019 uSugaring NYC-Organic Waxing & Lash Studio 8/20/2019 uDrury Inn and Suites 8/22/2019 uELITE INSURANCE COMPANY, INC. 8/27/2019 uMagnum Construction, LLC 8/29/2019 uTechnology Transfer LLC 9/3/2019 uEuropean Wax Center - Lee Branch 9/5/2019 uBrock’s Gap Dental Group 9/5/2019 uSCI Restoration Services 9/6/2019

Thank you to our 2019 Board of Trustees

The Presidents Circle of the Board of Trustees 1. Joe Thomas, Chairman, Capstone Financial Group* 2. Terri Q. Williams, AT&T Alabama* 3. Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union* 4. Antonio D. Sankey, Antonio D. Sankey & Assoc., LLC 5. John Lyda, Blue Cross and Blue Shield 6. Cris Ferguson, Brookwood Baptist Medical Center 7. Lori D. Moler, Children’s of Alabama* 8. Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation* 9. Jennifer Strickland, First Commercial Bank 10. Mark Garnett, HealthSpring of Alabama, Inc. 11. Joel Smith, Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall 12. Paul Dangel, Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel 13. Jerry Cross, Jefferson County EIDA* 14. Henry King, King Acura 15. Dan Mikos, Mikos-Kampakis Insurance* 16. Jerome Morgan, Jr., Oncort Professional Services 17. Richard Head, RE/MAX Advantage* 18. Karen Waldrop, Regions Financial 19. Charlie Conklin, Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing 20. Tim Prince, Hoover’s Magazine, Shelby County Reporter 21. Kathleen Spencer, Spencer Consulting Group* 22. Dan Ellis, TASC* 23. Sam Hess, Jet’s Pizza 24. Sam Hess, Tropical Smoothie 25. David Custred, McLeod Software 26. Bill Powell, Honorary Presidents Circle *Designates a Past President of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce The Board of Trustees Eric Land, ABC 33/40 Television Pete Gagliano, ADT Security Services Steve Swofford, Alabama Credit Union Timothy C. Lee, M.D., MPH, Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C. Alison Howell, Alabama Power Company Jabo Waggoner, Alabama Senate, District Sixteen Linda Cencula, Avadian Credit Union Veronica Ritchey, BB&T Bank Robert P. (Rob) Fowler, Balch & Bingham LLP Heather McInnish, BancorpSouth Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. Ken Crow, Belk Ashfaq Taufique, Birmingham Islamic Society Leanne Messer, Brookdale Place University Park Jamie White, Brown Heating & Cooling Bud Cason, Bud’s Best Cookies Paul Huckeba, C B & S Bank Garland Stansell, Children’s of Alabama

3000 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA 78 October/November 2019

Bobby Haynes, Costco Wholesale Randolph Pickell, Diversicare of Riverchase Mike Hawthorne, Edge Realty Group Fred Johnston, Express Oil/Tire Engineers Cody Burns, FOX 6 WBRC Debbie Hultquist, Fresenius Medical Care Keegan Jett, Galleria Woods Retirement Community Leisha Harris, Grandview Medical Center Len Luther, P.E., Gresham, Smith and Partners Neil Thakor, Holiday Inn ñ Hoover Kerry Bradley, Hoover Tactical Firearms Charlie Faulkner, Jefferson Credit Union Tony Cooper, Jimmie Hale Mission Joe McGee, Legacy Community Federal Credit Union Dwight Burrell, Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln Bridget Baughan, McDonald’s Keith Pennington,UAB Medical Center West Todd Beegle, On Tap Sports Café Chuck Herndon, Peoples Bank of Alabama Dr. John R. Phillips, III, PT Orthodontics Hugh Morrow, Broker, RE/MAX Preferred Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Mike White, Riverchase Galleria Andy Davis, St. Vincent’s Health System Kyle Hogan, Sam’s Club Sam Dillender, Santek Waste Services Kent O’Rear, ServPro of Birmingham Dr. Jack Schaeffer, Schaeffer Eye Centers Sarah Turner, Signature Homes Alain Gallet, Terracon Monique Holiness, The Home Depot-Inverness Elena Horn, The Home Depot-Riverchase Bethany Bell, The Trails at Cahaba River Gregory Rothfeld, Tom Williams BMW of Birmingham Robert Bailey, Tom Williams Lexus of Birmingham Tara J. Elliott, Troy University Alison Lindsay, WIAT-42 News Phillip Corley, Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC Darin Boykin, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 150 Richard Edwards, WalMart of 280 Sherry Webb, Webb Payroll Service, Inc. Tanja Bell, Birmingham Airport Authority Daniel Heldreth, Jason’s Deli Ira Levine, Levine & Associates Fred Dumas, Dave & Buster’s Hayley DeShazo, American Family Care Purvi Shaj, Ross Bridge Medical Center Zeke Ethridge, Alabama Vein & Restoration MedSpa David Wanniger, Comfort Care Home Health & Hospice Benjamin Yim, Omniwon Digital Agency Bob Mitchell, Oddessy Early Schools

HOOVER, AL 35244

F i n d U s O n l i ne

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Access our member directory

Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors

Chamber Officers Terry Turner 2019 Board President

Terry D. Turner Jr. Gentle, Turner & Sexton Attorneys 2019 Board President

Paul Dangel The HyattRegency Wynfrey Hotel 1st Vice President

Alison Howell Steineker, 2nd Vice President Alabama Power Company

Kathleen Spencer, Hyatt Place of Inverness Secretary

Adam West Warren Averett CPAs Treasurer

Paul Dangel 1st Vice President

Alison Howell Steineker 2nd Vice President

Kathleen Spencer Secretary

Adam West Treasurer Jerome Morgan, Jr., Oncort Professional Servies Immediate Past President

Greg Knighton City of Hoover City of Hoover Liaison

April DeLuca Magic City Law Legal Advisor

Jeff McDowell McDowell Security Services, LLC

Jerome Morgan Jr. Immediate Past President

Greg Knighton City of Hoover Liaison

April DeLuca Legal Advisor

Matthew Allen, Birmingham Fun and Family Magazine

Paul Huckeba C B & S Bank

Ira Levine, CCIM, Levine & Associates

Tynette Lynch Aldridge Gardens

Lynn Ray Business Telephones, Inc.

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

David Custred McLeod Software

Mike White Riverchase Galleria

205 - 988 - 5672

Board of Directors uMatthew Allen uPaul Huckeba uIra Levine uTynette Lynch uJeff McDowell uLynn Ray uJoel Smith uMike White uDavid Custred

WWW.HOOVERCHAMBER.ORG HooversMagazine.com 79

OUT & ABOUT

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NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

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PHOTOS BY KEITH MCCOY

Families flocked to Hoover’s 10th annual National Night Out event on Aug. 6 to meet members of the city’s police and fire departments, and to see their vehicles and equipment up-close.

1. Skip Wells, Cliff White and Jack Stevens 2. Chris Thompson and David Hyche

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3. Angela Terry, Jennifer Hargreaves and Niki Mathews 4. The Marquaz family 5. Carl and Japonica Morris 6. Melanie Cross and Wade Thomas with Martha Thomas

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OUT & ABOUT

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FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Readers shared photos of their students on the first day of school in Hoover on Aug. 8.

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1. Alantis Costello, 9th Grade, Hoover High School; Landon Costello, 7th Grade, Simmons Middle School; Lourdess Costello, 6th Grade, Simmons Middle School; and Blake Costello, 1st Grade, Gwin Elementary School 2. Declan Gamble, Kindergarten, Prince of Peace Catholic School 3. Emma Beckum, 2nd Grade, and Charlotte Beckum, Kindergarten 4. Reid Hasabnis, 6th Grade, Bumpus Middle School, and Kameron Hasabnis, 4th Grade, Deer Valley Elementary School 5. Mack Bridges, Kindergarten, Prince of Peace Catholic School

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6. Reeves Rohloff, 4th Grade, and Cole Rohloff, 6th Grade, Kindergarten, Riverchase Elementary School 7. Luke Harris, 4th Grade, and Sam Harris, 2nd Grade, Deer Valley Elementary School, with their dog, Weller 8. Rosalie, 1st Grade; Emma, 4th Grade; and Lorelei, 1st Grade, Prince of Peace Catholic School

HooversMagazine.com 81

OUT & ABOUT

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STATE OF OUR SCHOOLS

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PHOTOS BY BRIANA H. WILSON

The Shelby County Chamber hosted its annual State of Our Schools luncheon on Wednesday, July 31, at the Pelham Civic Complex.

1. Cindy Edmunds, Chad and Angie Hester and Melissa Dixon 2. Floyd Collins and Dorann Tanner 3. Gary Waters and Nicole Knight 4. Shelley Davis 5. John Turner and Frankie Osborn 6. Jerlanda Sanders 7. Melissa Youngblood, Peg Hill and Dawn Bone 8. Jacob Call and Mark Burroughs 9. Maryjayne Herring, Dave Davis and Kendall Williams 10. Kira Thomas, Dr. Courtney Bentley and Neal Wagner 11. Allison Tjelmeland and Andrew Arnold

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82 October/November 2019

OUT & ABOUT

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SETTING STANDARDS. EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS. SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! WWW.ARDENTPRESCHOOL.COM

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Awards 2019 3.5x4.75.indd 1

8/29/2019 8:49:15 AM

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HooversMagazine.com 83

OUT & ABOUT

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HOOVER CHAMBER AUGUST LUNCHEON

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PHOTOS BY EMILY SPARACINO

The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce held its monthly luncheon Aug. 15, and featured Antiqua Cleggett, executive director of the Central Six Workforce Council, as guest speaker.

1. Machelle Mumane, Jason Jones and Taylor Knox 2. Jamie White and Jennifer Lin 3. Lynne Remke and Ira Levine 4. Jordan Ray and Ashley King 5. Tomy West and Shahrokh Eslami 6. Elise Hearn and April Stone 7. Michelle Knight, Lynn Ray and Kelly Yongue 8. Kimberly Clarke and Kelly Hooper 9. Paula Campbell and Machelle Mumane 10. Samira Magarov and Page Rubin 11. Brenda Williams and Laura Cattelane 12. Derrick Ellis and Kristen Vaughn

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OUT & ABOUT

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MAKING THE WORLD SAFER ONE EDUCATED FIREARM OWNER AT A TIME Serving Birmingham & Surrounding Areas Since 2009!

Our indoor range has 28 lanes and accommodates •pistols •bows •ries •shotguns

205-822-3600

1561 Montgomery Highway, Hoover, AL 35216 HooversMagazine.com 85

OUT & ABOUT

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HOOVER BELLES ICE CREAM SOCIAL

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PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The Hoover Belles gathered on Sunday, Aug. 11 for their Back to School Ice Cream Social. They enjoyed sorbets and ices from Doodles as they listened to Belle alumna and guest speaker Susanna Bagwell Solar.

1. Alexandria Erickson, Erin Lutomski, Abby Batchelor, Evie Barakat and Bella Pretnar

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2. Caroline Jarboe, Tatum Holley, Sarah Turner, Loren Pate, Abby Turner and Kinsey Dambrino 3. Olivia Heywood, Maria Timberlake, Sydney Close, Mya Washington, Ramey Medders and Ansley Grayber 4. Rory Edwards, Hunter Grace Fairfax and Katherine Wright 5. Gabrielle Essix, Bella Doll, Sophie Mayhew and Rianna Looney 6. Kaleigh Rice, Lydia Coltrane, Lauren Halcomb, Eleanor Jo Harwell, Laurel Burkhardt and Amelia Auchmuty 7. Hunter Grace Fairfax, Ann Michael Evans, Payton Morgan, Charleigh Hager, Sarah Bensinger and Katherine Wright 8. Caroline Lawrence, Emilia Trueb, Emma Evans, Emma Grace Hanna and Taylor Wilson 9. Abby Scott, Abby Norris, Katie Heglas and Sophie Anderson

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10. Abby Batchelor, Samantha Gagliano, Abby Fortner, Amber Dubble and Elizabeth Tedder 11. Megan Miles, Olivia Frazier, Mary Brook Barton, Addison Cole, Chloe Annakin and Ella Thomas 12. Mary Caroline Stephens, Emmie Latham, Morgan Patrick, Maci Martens, Kylie Kendall and Olivia Holmann 13. Chloe Bishop, Augusta Jones, Katie Schumann, Bella Smith and Carly Rickman HooversMagazine.com 87

MARKETPLACE

Marketplace Hoover’s Magazine • 205.669.3131

Acceptance Loan Company. Personal Loans!

Let us pay off your title loan!

224 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham. 205-663-5821 Need appliance or air conditioner parts?

How about a water filter for your refrigerator? We have it all at A-1 Appliance Parts!

Call 1-800-841-0312 www.A-1Appliance.com

American Auctioneers, LLC 1-866-789-5169 american-auctioneers.com Call us for your auctions needs!! • Land/Acreage •Estates • Residential/ Commercial Real Estate • Business Liquidations • Construction Farm Equipment • Lake/ Recreational Properties INDUSTRIAL ATHLETES $17.68 hour + production & safety $$$ incentives.

Grocery order selection using electric pallet jacks & voice activated headsets.

Apply online at AGSOUTH.COM or call Charlie Seagle at (205) 808-4833 Pre-employment drug test required.

Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted.

Clanton (205)280-0002.

Pelham (205)444-9774.

88 October/November 2019

Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience.

CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits.

Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007

Bent Creek Apartments.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom. On-site Manager.

On-site Maintenance.

3001 7th Street. North Clanton, AL 35045.

TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) 800-548-2546(T/A) bentcreek@morrowapts.com Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer Boise Cascade Now Hiring for Utility Positions.

Starting pay $13.33/hour.

Must be able to pass background screen.

Please apply at www.bc.com Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers.

Over-the-road positions available. Dry vans. No hazmat. Must have one year over-the-road. Experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus package. Good home time.

Call 800-633-9710 ext. 2 DCH Health System Caring. For Life. $5,000 *Sign-on Bonus for full time RNs *For More Info Contact Annie.Miller@dchsystem. com. Apply online at: www.dchsystem.com NOW HIRING!!! • CDL DRIVERS • ASPHALT EQUIPMENT OPERATORS Apply Online Today! www.dunnconstruction. com • Bright Future •

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Great Pay • Unheard of Benefits • HOME EVERY DAY! #DunnTheRightWay EOE/Minorities/Females/ Disabled/Veterans $2000 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.

Now Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators and CDL Drivers Competitive pay and benefits. Pre-employment drug test required Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Call: 205-298-6799 or email us at: jtate@forestryenv.com Franklin Iron Works Now Hiring. Grinders & Laborers.

Must apply in person: 146 Tommie Drive, Thorsby.

Mon-Fri. 10am-3pm.

Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Hiring: Homeownership LeasePurchase Facilitator Resident Services Coordinator-ROSS Human Resources Specialist Compliance Data Analysis Application Data Entry Clerk Assistant Vice President of Housing Operations Director of Public Safety Custodian View complete description and apply at www.habd.org or 1826 3rdAvenueSouth Birmingham, Al 35233

NOW AVAILABLE LPN’s, RN’s 12 HOUR SHIFTS CNA’s Full-time & part-time Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Center Drive Clanton, AL 35045

Now Hiring!!

• Caregivers-ADL’s, assist with medications and some lifting 7am-3pm, 3pm11pm, 11pm-7pm • Activity Director Part-Time • Cookssome 12/hr shifts Call Shay McNeal 205-620-2905

Helping Hands Estate Sales Serving clients over 7yrs Professional & Experienced We can help sell the contents of your home!

Contact for information: 256-283-5549 tbob56. wixsite.com/helping-hands

Are you a motivated professional? Are you looking for a dynamic career? Are you ready to control your own level of success? See why McKinnons’ is an exciting place to work and grow.

Now accepting applications for Sales, Service, and Detail Shop. Apply with the receptionist. 205-755-3430

Industrial Coatings Group, Inc. is hiring experienced -Sandblasters -Industrial Painters - Helpers. Must be able to pass drug test and e-verify check. Must be willing to travel. Professional references required.

Please send resume to: icgsecretary@hotmail.com or call (205)688-9004 Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com SHEETMETAL & MANUFACTURING HELP WANTED • Sheetmetal/ Layout, • Manufacturing Helpers, • Sheetmetal Machinery Operators, Multiple positions Paid holidays, typical shifts are 6:00am-2:30pm Must be reliable & on-time Call RICK: 205-761-3975 Need FREE help with your Medicare? Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) today at (800)AGE-LINE (800)-243-5463.

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 Oxford Healthcare in Montgomery currently hiring certified CNA’s and/ or Home Health aides in the Clanton, Marbury and Maplesville areas. Must be able to pass complete background check, have reliable transportation and have a strong work ethic.

Serious inquiries only.

Call 334-409-0035 or apply on-line at www.Oxfordhealthcare.com

MARKETPLACE Marble Valley Manor.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm.

Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer Southeastern Food Merchandisers NOW HIRING Class-A CDL Food Service Delivery Drivers with 1 year experience!!!

Pay & Benefits • Home daily • Schedules allow you to depart and return to same terminal daily • Dispatches are single day routes, nothing runs overnight or multi-day! • Paid by weight delivered, miles, and stops • Drivers running single driver routes are earning $75,000-$100,000 yearly!

• Team and Helper routes are earning $65,000+ yearly What we offer in addition to route pay! • Attendance/ Accuracy bonuses • Wklypay w/direct deposit • 401(k) w/company match, eligible after 6-months with quarterly enrollment • Blue Cross of AL health & dental insurance, company subsidized • Two different medical plans for Blue Cross depending on your needs • Vision Insurance, company subsidized • Basic Life and AD&D 100% employer paid • Company paid Short-Term Disability • Voluntary Life & AD&D also provided on post-tax basis for you, and your family Email resume: ofrye@southeasternfood. com Call:205-685-4534 CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance. I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham. Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, local-based company in Pelham. Must be

willing to learn & work hard.

Go to: supremeelectric-al. com Print employment application under Contact Us. Mail to: Supreme Electric 231 Commerce Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-453-9327.

Looking for a house to rent in Shelby County?

We can help. Call for available rentals and specials (205)433-9811 TaylorMade Transportation Hiring CDL Drivers for Flatbed Regional Division!

BCBS Insurance After 30 Days. To apply call: (334)366-2269 or email: s.smith@taylormadeinc.com Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

White Oak Transportation is hiring CDL-A drivers in your area. Great Pay! Excellent Benefits! Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans. com for more information EOE-M/F/D/V DRYWALL REPAIRS SAME DAY SERVICE Offering: • Plastering • Stucco • Water Damage Repair $$FREE ESTIMATES$$ Please Call: 205-502-6023 Heritage Christian Academy is now accepting enrollment for K3-12th Grades. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Call 205-978-6001, to schedule a Campus Tour!

NOW-HIRING CLASS-A CDL DRIVERS IN THE BIRMINGHAM AREA •Clean driving record and drug test required •Piggyback lift exp.a plus •Benefits offered.

Contact Information: april@blairblock.com 256-378-3345

HIBBETT SPORTS Conveyor Mechanic • Great Benefits • Monday, Thursday, Friday 10:00am-9:00pm • Saturday 8:00am-7:00pm Call: 205-912-7204 www.hibbett.com Help Wanted - full time/ part time available!

Warehouse enviroment assisting with painting, building, designing props and scenes. Visit www.phobiafactory.com to submit your application.

ETS RESTORATIONS • Retaining Walls • Concrete Work •Demolition • Landscaping • Construction • Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Bobcat Work • Hardscapes • Hauling Residential & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES!!!

CALL NOW (205)209-7787 A Dry Waterproofing • Basement/Crawlspace Waterproofing • Install Sump Pumps • Repair Wet Basement • Mold Remediation • French Drains • Foundation Repairs *Also providing electrical work!

Emergency Service 6-Days/ Week Serving Jefferson/ Shelby Counties Call Van:205-230-3972 F&S CONSTRUCTION “Quality work you can count on” • Decks • Windows • Painting • Siding of All Types • Baths • Flooring • Kitchens • Foundation Specialist • And Much More!! Free Estimates!! Licensed/ Insured & 50yrs Combined Experience Call:205-641-1148 $Cash Paid For Used RV’s!$ Motor Homes, Travel/Enclosed trailers, consignment welcome, Cars and Trucks, Pick up available, Mccluskey Auto and RV Sales, LLC 205-833-4575

1st Heritage Credit, LLC 8919 Hwy-119, Alabaster Branch Mgr:Brook Morris 205-620-0664 “Excellence is our Standard” Loan Available: • Personal • Consolidation • Auto • Consumer Retail Call/Apply: 1stheritagecredit.com Loans are subject to normal credit criteria!

Alabama Position located in Birmingham, AL Contact: Allison.Sizemore@ childrensal.org

WASTE PRO IS NOW HIRING CDL DRIVERS & MECHANICS Go online to WWW.WASTEPROUSA. COM to fill out an application today!

Small Engine Technician Full-Time Must have knowledge of: -Lawn Mowers -Pressure Washers -Chainsaws -2-Cycle/4-Cycle Weed Eaters MUST BE DEPENDABLE! Call: (205)281-0565 Email: qtr@mindspring.com

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HEAT & FROST INSULATORS & ALLIED WORKERS BIRMINGHAM AREA HEAT & FROST INSULATORS LOCAL 78 Accepting applications for a 4-year Apprenticeship Program. Applications accepted in person July 1-July 31, Monday-Friday 8:30am-2:00pm at: 2653 Ruffner Road Birmingham, AL 35210. 205-956-2866 or craig@insulators78.org Applicants must be 18+ and furnish proof of age.

High school diploma/GED & reliable transportation required. Applicants will be required to take a simple math test and an English comprehension test. The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee is registered with the Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship Training and is an equal opportunity employer.

Manager Language Services (MedicalInterpreter) • BS Degree Healthcare Management, 3yrs exp in medical interpreting/ translating healthcare/ pediatric setting • Medical Interpreter Certification or ability to become certified • Bilingual(EnglishSpanish) Children’s of

HOME REPAIR/ REMODELING SST Properties, INC. Home Repair & Remodeling.

Licensed & Insured!

Call: 205-808-2482

DREAMER’S SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY GRAND OPENING SEPTEMBER 2019 NOW ENROLLING NEW STUDENTS! Now Hiring: • Secretary with Computer Skills • Licensed Cosmetology Instructor -Serious Inquiries Only844 Highway 31, Suite E Alabaster, AL 35007 Call 205-624-4676 GRACE COMMUNITY SCHOOL Christian Preschool hiring full-time teacher assistants.

Must be dependable & flexible with a passion for children. Experience with Abeka a plus. MondayFriday, Shifts may vary.

Apply at: 8777 Helena Road Pelham, AL 35124.

Shelby County Openings: Loaders: • 1st shift 7am4pm, Monday-Friday • 2nd Shift- 4:30pm Finish, Sunday–Thursday $11.00/hr Packers-1st shift 7am-4pm, Monday-Friday $11.00/hr Replenisher-1st Shift 6am3:30pm $12.00/hr Standup Forklift Operators 1st Shift-6am-3:30pm $12.00/hr Apply online: www.mystaffmark.com

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WHY I LOVE HOOVER

Larry Sparks

Attorney, Retired Colonel, JAG, U.S. Army Reserve

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Larry became an avid runner after serving in the military, and decided to take on the state-by-state challenge in halfmarathons. With 20 runs in 17 states, he’s well on his way to the finish line. He says his wife, Leigh, keeps asking when he will be running in Hawaii. Fun fact: Larry was one of the first people to serve on the initial committees to form the Hoover City School System.

When did you move to Hoover?

I moved to the Hoover area in late 1977 and moved my law office to Galleria Tower in spring of 1988. My family literally grew with Hoover, and we loved the growing city. My law practice also grew with Hoover and the Galleria complex. One of the best decisions of my professional life was moving to Hoover and then locating my office in the most visited complex in the state.

How did you get into running?

I was in the military, active duty, National Guard and Army Reserve for 37 years and always had stayed physically fit.

A group of friends in the Reserves had started running local races, and after I retired, I started running with a few of them. Then I began to meet other local runners in Bluff Park and Vestavia, including some old friends, and while most were younger than me, I made a private commitment to train to run a half marathon.

What was the first race you ran?

Huntsville (Rocket City). The funny thing was, a close high school friend 90 October/November 2019

How did you get involved with the Rotary Club?

I joined the club in April of 1979. It had been organized in the fall of 1977, and there were many community leaders in the club. They mentored me and I saw them How do you train? give back so much to our community. I I have a group of running buddies. I serve as our Foundation President and am think you must have a group for starting my fourth year as Assistant accountability because when it is 28 Governor for our North Alabama District. degrees and dark at 5 a.m., it is very difficult to go run. I started running for 3-4 What is one thing that no one knows miles and gradually worked up to at least about you?

10. It really gets you going and actually I write poetry. That’s something I’ve gives you energy for the day. done since high school and really enjoy it—

when I have time.

What are your favorite places to run in Hoover?

What makes Hoover your home?

Parking at Shades Crest church on Park We have so many good people living Avenue and running several different here who sincerely care about the schools, courses from there. Or parking at Mr. P’s the arts, the well-being of the city as a on Shades Crest Road and running to I-65 whole. I am so thrilled to see young couples and back and repeating. For longer runs moving into Hoover and making their own we use the Lakeshore Trail or a route family and neighborhood traditions. Our through Mountain Brook. As great as these citizens don’t always agree with each other, places are, nothing compared to my but I think we all, for the most part, agree running across the Golden Gate Bridge in to disagree civilly. Bottom line: We all April of 2018, or running in the back want to do what’s best for the city. country of New Hampshire last fall. showed up to root me on, and that made it really special to finish the race. I was bitten by the running bug and decided that a worthy goal would be to run a half marathon in every state!

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