Hoover Sun June 2014 by Starnes Media

Sun HooverSun.com

Neighborly news & entertainment for Hoover

June 2014 • A1

Volume 2 | Issue 9 | June 2014

Renewal relief

Honoring service

coming to the Met

TAGS

Several Hoover students recently received scholarships from the Hoover Service Club. Find details inside.

See page A14

Beautiful belles

The Hoover Belles were presented at an annual ceremony in May. Read more inside.

See page A15

INSIDE City .....................A5 Business ............A8 Food ...................A11 Community .......A12

By WILLIAM C. SINGLETON III Hoover city officials want to operate a county annex at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium that will allow residents to renew their car tags within city limits. After the council earlier this month passed a resolution essentially allowing the city to enter the car tag renewal business, Hoover o ff i c i a l s said their desire is to ultimately operate a courthouse annex to serve new tags for cars, motorcycles and boats and issue driver’s licenses to Hoover residents. “It will be a full-service annex,” Council President Pro Term Brian Skelton said. “We certainly have the space there.” Skelton said the annex would be at the Met, but officials have to discuss what a potential annex would look like and whether modifications would be necessary to accommodate such a facility. Mayor Gary Ivey said he has

already begun pursuing the idea. “We’ve met with Sen. (Jabo) Waggoner and State Rep. (Paul) DeMarco and asked that they look at us for a pilot program for a full-blown annex,” the mayor said. Earlier this year, the two legislators were instrumental in sponsoring and pushing through a bill that gives Jefferson County cities the right to issue car tag renewals. Vestavia and Hoover are the only Jefferson County cities to act on the new law. The new legislation provides relief to Hoover and Vestavia Hills residents who would otherwise have to

See NO LINES | page A16

Triumph through trials Former state trooper shares dark story of addiction with youth across Alabama

School House ..B9 Sports ...............B11 Calendar ...........B13

By KATIE TURPEN

Pre-Sort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Birmingham, AL Permit #656

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Hoover resident Matthew Creighton is a former Alabama State Trooper who fell into a gambling addiction that ultimately landed him in and out of prison three times. He has since written a book titled Don’t Get Sidetracked and shares his message at schools and churches across the state. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Matthew Creighton will always remember that moment. He watched his son walk toward him inside the Alabama state prison. Creighton was used to appearing regal and polished in front of his child, proudly dressed in a state trooper uniform. That day, however, Creighton looked down at his white suit, unable to believe his son had to see him this way. “I’ll never forget that look on my son’s face,” Creighton said. “He absolutely broke down and said he could not come back to that place ever again.” Creighton had created a successful life for

See CREIGHTON | page A16

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June 2014 • A3

Make family time cool again! inc.  Patios & Walls  Outdoor Kitchens  Outdoor Fireplaces & Fire pits  Arbors and Pergolas

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You can see all of our past work on our website:

OutdoorLivingAreas.net

Alabama G C L #43737

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Hoover Sun

About Us Clarification: 1. What is your background? I have been a small business owner in real estate for the last 40 years. I have been married to my wife, Martha, for 46 years and have two children and two grandsons. I have been involved with numerous civic organizations. I was the first Republican elected in Shelby County and have served as county commissioner, state representative and mayor. I am the only candidate with elected public experience. I am

a hard-working, conservative, pro-life candidate. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year Our state’s funding is the biggest issue. Our economy and future depends on our children. Our children’s futures are not bargaining chips. Education must be funded. Local issues that demand attention include education, flooding, sewer cost and road projects.

Clarification: 1. What is your background? I recently graduated from law school. I have been blessed with six children. My family and I have resided in Hoover for 13 years. We are members of Hunter Street Baptist Church, where I enjoy singing in the choir. I have participated in resolving issues throughout Hoover and I am a dedicated, hard-working Republican. Please see my website, electblackmorejenkins.org. 2. What is the biggest issue

Don Murphy is running for Alabama House of Representatives District 43. He did not appear in the candidate profiles in our May issue. To read all candidate profiles for District 43, see page A20.

3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Image. The people of Hoover have a strong voice, name and respect, not only in the state of Alabama but also throughout the Southeast in general. They deserve better than the image that is currently being portrayed. Let’s work together and find a better solution because no child in District 43 should have to pay to ride a school bus.

Pamela Blackmore-Jenkins is running for Alabama House of Representatives District 46. She did not appear in the candidate profiles in our May issue. To read all candidate profiles for District 46, see page A19.

facing the state? Under-utilization of resources. Ex.1 People Resource. We are in the bottom tier academically in our grade school and high schools. However, we have two of the best colleges in America. We have to give all children the proper skill sets to be successful at an Auburn and Alabama. Ex. 2 Land Resource. We are not utilizing the resources of the poorest area in the nation, which is the Black Belt. The Black Belt must be economically revived. Tax

incentives, agriculture and manufacturing would develop the economic base in the Black Belt area. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? The local government must be in tune with maintaining the level of services and quality of life within the city of Hoover. Hoover has been a fast growing city that needs to continue to expand its tax base by looking for all opportunities for growing

small businesses, creating a larger tax base that will alleviate issues with the financial school system.

Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden I recently read an artibecome just after supper, cle on Slate about a parwhen my little family of ent’s emotional journey in four heads out to walk preparing his grown son around our neighborhood. to go to college. Having It’s a time I savor, because I cannot see dishes that only been on the student need washing, laundry that end of that perspective, his essay (thank you, Rob needs folding, or mail that Lowe) took me back to needs organizing. When the summer of 1996, and my daughter stops to pick to what my parents might a bouquet of milkweeds have felt as they prepared for me, I am overjoyed — Walden to move me into Tutwiler and I mean it. When my Hall at the University of Alabama in Tus- son looks up at the sky and describes the caloosa that August. Until I read Lowe’s sharks and whales he sees in the cloud essay, I’d given little consideration to formations, I ask him questions — and I what the process must have been like for listen intently to his answers. them, though I think it’s fair to say that I notice the honeysuckle that grows any bit of sadness they felt was mixed in the corner of a neighbor’s yard, and I with a healthy dose of reclaiming some stop to teach my children the inexplicable joy of tasting its unadulterated sweetpeace and quiet at home. Since reading the tenderness of ness. In that moment, I am 8 years old Lowe’s words about his college-bound again, toting an empty Cool Whip conson, I have found myself less focused on tainer from my mother’s kitchen into the the daily disarray and never-ending to do side yard, intent on filling the thing with lists of family life, and more contempla- as much suckled honey as I can collect tive on its fleeting beauty. in the span of an afternoon. My new favorite time of day has Before long, we run into our neighbors

and, what a concept — absent smartphones and other distractions — we actually talk to each other. Kids who were unknown to us just moments before are suddenly arm-in-arm with my own children, playing ball, catching sticks and chasing each other as if they’d been playing together for years. After all, if I am focused on a never-ending list of to-dos, what have I really done? My family doesn’t need a taskmaster. They need me. It’s here. Five years flashed by, and now, my baby, the same one who learned to grasp a rattle in what seemed like only yesterday, is going to big kid school. I know that entirely too soon, it will be me preparing Ella for college, and this time, this stage of life when we are all acting like we’ve got the balancing act down but inside we’re secretly wondering if we are doing it right, will be a distant memory. I’ve got 13 more summers until then. And I’m going to make this one count.

Publisher : Creative Director : Graphic Designers: Editor: Managing Editor: Staff Writers: Editorial Assistant: Advertising Manager : Sales and Distribution : Contact Information: Hoover Sun #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@hooversun.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: rebecca@hooversun.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253

Copy Editor: Contributing Writer: Interns: Published by :

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Emily VanderMey Wayne Marshall Rebecca Walden Madoline Markham Katie Turpen Jessa Pease Madison Miller Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Nathan Pearman Louisa Jeffries William C. Singleton III Sydney Cromwell Rachael Headley Hoover Sun LLC

Please Support our Community Partners Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (A8) Alabama Outdoors (A17) Alabama Power c/o AL Newspaper Advertising Service (B12) Alabama Shakespeare Festival (B3) ALDOT (B5) ARC Realty (B1) Arnold Mooney Campaign (A7) Bedzzz Express (B16) Birmingham Museum of Art (A24) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (A8) Brook Valley Management (B10) Cahaba Dermatology and Skin Care Center (A23) Children’s of Alabama (A9) Classic Gardens (A13) Clear Advantage Pantry (B2) Construx (A2) Danberry at Inverness (A21) Decorating Dens Interiors (A11) Doug Clark Campaign (B9) Geico Insurance (B6) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (A12) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (B11) Home Care Associates (A16) Hoover Public Library (A14) Indian Springs School (A6) Issis & Sons / O Advertising (A18) Jack Williams Campaign (A1) John Samaniego for Sheriff (A10) MedCenter Hoover (B7) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (A16) My Ultimate Mattress (A12) Olio Oils and Balsamics (A14) One Man and a Toolbox (A16) Outdoor Living Areas (A3) Over the Mountain Glass (A6) Princeton Baptist Vein Center (A13) Pro Credit of Alabama (B4) RealtySouth - James Harwell (A10) RealtySouth Marketing (A5) Red Mountain Theatre Company (A19) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (A15) Rick Needham (B11) Silver Lining Consignment Boutique (B3) Spain Park Day Camp (A18) Steve French for House (A1) Susette Clark-Walker / RealtySouth (B8) T-Mobile (A3) The Altamont School (A21) The Maids (B7) The Retirement Center (B8) The Whole Scoop (B10) Tres Beau Weddings (B4) UAB Medicine (A23) Vision Gymnastics (A23) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A2) Vulcan Termite & Pest Control (A19) Wrapsody (A15)

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editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Hoover Sun is designed to inform the Hoover community of area school, family and community events. Information in the Hoover Sun is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of the Hoover Sun. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

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June 2014 • A5

City Mayor’s Minute By Gary Ivey

Summertime is here and we hope everyone is enjoying it. This time last year, we had just broken ground on our new Miracle League baseball field that was built at Hoover Sports Park East. We are excited to report that the first spring season of the Over the Mountain Miracle League was a hit. We had more than 70 players participate each weekend with smiles on their faces. We still aren’t sure who had more fun: the players, the coaches or the spectators. The League has had an overwhelming response from people that wanted to volunteer. This just shows you the kind of great people that live in our community. Be sure and check out their website at otmmiracleleague.org for registration information for the fall season. We had a tremendous success with our SEC Baseball Tournament in May. Over the past 16 years, the top baseball teams from the Western and Eastern divisions have met at the Hoover Met with crowds more than 130,000. This year, even more gathered to watch America’s favorite pastime: baseball! We are looking forward to another great tournament in 2015. We are very excited that the city of Hoover will be hosting our second Freedom Fest on the Fourth of July at the Hoover Met. This family friendly event will start at 6 p.m. with live entertainment and the evening will close out with a magnificent fireworks show. Don’t forget we have plenty of free parking as well and easy access in and out of The Met. For additional details about the event you can visit

Gary Ivey

our website at hooveralabama.gov or call City Hall at 444-7500. Hoover has something for all ages. Please don’t hesitate to call our office if we can assist you. Our staff will continue to work hard to exceed your expectations. Sincerely, Gary Ivey Mayor

Hoover to resurface Hugh Daniel Drive, raise fire dues By WILLIAM C. SINGLETON III In May, the Hoover City Council agreed to enter a maintenance contract with the Alabama Department of Transportation to resurface Hugh Daniel Drive. The repaving will cover about 4,000 feet of road from U.S. 280 east to Dunavant Road. The project will cost about $1.3 million to complete with the City of Hoover paying 20 percent or $260,000. Mayor Gary Ivey said the project should begin in late summer or early fall. The city also increased fire dues for residents and businesses outside Hoover who are covered by the city’s fire department. The council agreed to amend its municipal code to increase the fee for residents from $200 to $350 a year and for businesses from no fee to $700 a year. Rusty Lowe, spokesman for the

fire department, said the amended code also allows the city to invoice payment of fire dues to residents and businesses. “Before, the ordinance was going to make each homeowner sign a contract and send it back. They’ve taken that out,” Lowe said. “Now, the homeowner can just petition the city or be invoiced and pay the fire dues.” The council also appointed former Alabama football great Bobby Humphrey to serve on the city’s parks and recreation board. Humphrey will fill the unexpired five-year term of Craig Kelley, who resigned in April for an appointment to the city school board. “We’ve been asking him to serve for a while, and he’s finally found time in his schedule,” Council President Jack Wright said. “We’re flattered to have Bobby Humphrey. He’s all about athletics and has a constant eye on parks and recreation.”

Hoover school bus fee plan delayed By MADOLINE MARKHAM When Hoover students return to school in August, they can ride a bus with no fee just like they always have. A new system that would charge Hoover City Schools students to ride city school buses has been pushed back to an implementation goal of the 201516 school year. On May 6, Hoover Superintendent Andy Craig released notification that the goal would be 2015-16 instead of a previously discussed 201415 school year. The Hoover City Schools Board of Education approved the fee structure during its April 17 regular meeting, but its implementation required approval from the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. District Court. The system is intended to “eliminate or minimize the unfunded cost burden of providing student transportation.” The rates for the system would be $2.26 per day both ways for one rider, with a reduction to $1.59 for two riders and $1.19 for three or more riders. Students

qualified for reduced and free lunch would be discounted by 50 and 63 percent respectively. Hoover City Schools’ financial challenges have been at the forefront of local discussions since 2013, when the Board revealed its fiscal year 2014 budget. The budget projected $150 million in revenue and $167 in expenditures. In a release, Craig explained that state allocations have fallen short of operating costs for school transportation, and HCS have continued to grow. State Superintendant Dr. Tommy Bice met with Craig on Monday to discuss Hoover’s financial matters. “I was most encouraged that there is no immediate implications for transportation for the upcoming 2014-2015 school year,” Bice said. “It will be a year of study and planning, as key questions are answered… Student transportation is but one of many areas under study [to maintain level funding], as there remain legal questions to be answered but we are working through those collaboratively. ”

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Go Grey for Gretchen Ross Bridge residents rally around one of their own

By REBECCA WALDEN Busily juggling her responsibilities as a parttime dental hygienist and a mom to daughters Mylee, 5, and Sophia, 3, Gretchen Anderson hardly had time to give much thought to the rather persistent headache that started last May. After enduring it for three days, her husband of seven years, Matt, drove Gretchen to Hoover Urgent Care. By that time, Gretchen had lost total vision in her left eye. After failing an eye exam and with the headache showing no signs of letting up, Gretchen was sent directly to Brookwood Hospital. Within the first 24 hours, a neurologist was at her bedside, telling Gretchen an MRI had revealed a lesion on her brain the size of a tennis ball. Twenty-four hours later, she was recovering from a craniotomy. She was 31 years old at the time. Biopsy results confirmed Gretchen’s diagnosis as stage 3 oligoastrocytoma. During the 12 weeks that followed, while Gretchen endured six weeks of radiation five days each week, and another six weeks of chemo, her neighbors at Ross Bridge sprang into action. The Andersons have lived in the Chalybe section of the neighborhood since 2009, when Matt’s job with Atlanta Dental transferred them there from Georgia. And while they settled with ease into their new neighborhood, known for its high concentration of young families and its friendly sense of community, Gretchen said it wasn’t until the first few days of her diagnosis that they realized just how rare a community they’d found. “I couldn’t drive for 12 weeks, nor could I stay alone,” she said. “The neighborhood absolutely outdid themselves. Every time someone would go to check the mail, they would find a

care package at our front door.” Meals are a common method of neighborhood ministry in the Deep South, and for 90 days, the Andersons found their refrigerator fully stocked from the generosity of fellow residents. But for Gretchen, the most awe-inspiring gesture took shape in July, when her diagnosis was no longer “new” news and the care regimen had become a part of the family’s new normal. That’s when the phone rang. On the other end was Ross Bridge resident Kate Rudemiller. She told Gretchen the neighborhood’s annual 8K and Health Expo that September, a race Gretchen and her family had supported the year before, would be rebranded in Gretchen’s honor. Under the tagline “Go Grey for Gretchen,” Rudemiller recruited more than 70 residents to participate. Rudemiller had T-shirts and water bottles donated from her father-in-law and printed in support of Gretchen’s campaign. Other neighbors set up and operated a lemonade stand in Gretchen’s honor on the day of the race. More than 70 race registrants participated in Gretchen’s honor. Their efforts yielded more than $5,000. Fellow neighbor and professional photographer Amanda Knerr donated her services to capture the events of the day. Knerr’s involvement was made all the more poignant for the fact that she had helped her five-year-old daughter battle ovarian cancer just a few years prior. “I never really knew how much I was loved until all this happened,” Gretchen said. Today, Gretchen’s scans are 100 percent clear. She remains on a five night per month oral chemo until September, at which point she will walk the Ross Bridge 8K once again, this time, as a survivor.

Matt and Gretchen Anderson with their daughters, Sophie, 3, and Mylee, 5. As Gretchen heals, she is staying active in ministry at Cross Creek Church. Photo courtesy of Amanda Knerr.

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June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ A7

Celebrating our city Celebrate Hoover Day, an annual city-wide celebration that is free to the public, took place on Saturday, May 3.Â This family-friendly event drew local residents of all ages to Veterans Park on Valleydale for a fun day at the park. Activities included carnival rides, inflatables, live entertainment, food vendors and more.

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June 2014 • A9

Now Open Riverchase Urgent Care, 1924 U.S. 31, is now open. Edward Daugherty, DO, Barney McIntire, MD, and Elizabeth Owings, MD, are now seeing patients. 988-3715. riverchaseurgentcare.com.

Taylor Burton, Inc., 3239 Lorna Road, Suite 108, placed third in the “Outdoor Living” category in the 2014 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards. It also placed first in the “Residential Specialty Projects” category. 822-7936. taylorburton.com.

Richard Farrar, 201 Office Park Drive, Suite 300, has been selected as one of eight financial planners from among 2,000 financial planners across the country to join the 2014 Advanced Select Member group of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp./Sagemark Consulting. 803-3333. rickfarrar.com.

Coming Soon

Hot Topic will open a retail location in the Riverchase Galleria during the third quarter of the year. The national brand specializes in music and pop culture-related apparel. hottopic.com.

Donna Fitts of Re/MAX Advantage South, 2635 Valleydale Road, Suite 200, was awarded with the Client Choice and SOAR Leadership awards at a recent “Get a Real Estate Life!” brunch and ceremony. 527-9605. ﬁttsteam.com.

Relocations and Renovations

3 Greystone Golf and Country Club, 4100 Greystone Drive, has announced a major $4 million facility renovation and enhancement this summer in preparation for the Champions Tour’s Regions Tradition, which it will host from 2016-2018. 980-5200. greystonecc.com.

Hirings and Promotions

Covenant Classical Schools & 4 Daycare, 5390 Magnolia Trace, has announced a 6,700- square-foot addition to their facility. The new space will make room for six additional classrooms. 733-5437. covenantclassical.com.

InSite Engineering, 5800 Feldspar Way, has hired Levi Hitt to join its staff. Hitt will help expand the company’s capacity to provide civil engineering and consulting services to more communities and developers across the state. 733-9696. insiteengineering.org.

Principal Financial Group has relocated from 2200 Riverchase Center, Suite 620, to 3500 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 280, near The Summit on U.S. 280. 444-9004. principal.com.

ARC Realty, 5291 Valleydale Road, has hired Zoe Langner as an associate broker and Kayla Crook as a Realtor. 969-8910. arcrealtyco.com.

News and Accomplishments

Aho Architects, LLC, 265 Riverchase Parkway East, Suite 204, has promoted April R. Cain, IIDA to the position of vice president. Aho is a multidisciplinary architectural, planning and interior design firm. 983-6000. ahoarch.com.

Cadence Bank, with locations at 6801 Cahaba Valley Road and 2755 John Hawkins Parkway, is ranked as the 15th best performing regional bank in the United States according to SNL Financial. 981-4700 and 444-3800. cadencebank.com

Precision Homecrafters, LLC, 1215 Lake Forest Circle, placed first in the “Kitchen Remodel Over $80,000” category in the 2014 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards. It also placed second in the “Bath Remodel Over $50,000” category; second in the “Exterior Remodel” category; first in the “Outdoor Living” category; and third in the “Space Renovation” category. The yearly awards are given to contractors from across Alabama by the Home Builders Association of Alabama. 733-9583. precisionhomecrafters.com.

RealtySouth, 109 Inverness Plaza, has hired Brittany Barratt and Tadd Smith as Realtors. They will based out of the Inverness office. 991-6565. realtysouth.com.

Business news

RealtySouth, 1220 Alford Avenue, has hired Lindsay Dabney as a Realtor. She will based out of their Over the Mountain office. 822-2364. realtysouth.com.

to share?

LAH Real Estate, 2 Chase Corporate Drive, Suite 15, has hired Jennifer Namie and Peter Jameson as commercial sales associates. 440-4740. lahrealestate.com.

Business news Business news

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Coming Soon Expansion Coming Soon Relocation

Expansion

Anniversary Expansion

If you are in a brick and mortar business in Hoover and want to share your Ifevent you are with in a brick and mortar business the community, in Hoover and want to share your let us know. event with the community, let us know.

If you are in a brick and mortar business in Hoover and want to share your event with the community, let us know.

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A10 • June 2014

Hoover Sun

Business Spotlight

Many Hoover residents may know the building nestled at the top of Little Valley Road as the former Grammas’ Restaurant. Today, the facility, which includes the converted restaurant and a picturesque garden, is known as Park Crest Events. Tucked out of sight next to an apartment complex, the facility is a hidden Hoover gem. “People still come by thinking that it’s the restaurant,” Events Coordinator Kelli Beard said. “We really want people to know that we are here and have something special to offer people in this community.” The converted restaurant, known as Park Crest Place, offers an indoor venue for any kind of party or rehearsal dinner. The facility includes a lobby, dining area, bar and lounge, dance floor and two patios. Other amenities include flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, a grand piano and a wine bar. Directly beside Park Crest Place is the outdoor space known as Park Crest Gardens. This area features a pavilion, bar and a stage, which is a convenient spot for wedding receptions with live music. However, the unique and most visually appealing feature of the gardens is the beautiful view of Shades Mountain. A walkway that runs past a trickling fountain leads up to the space with the view and provides just the right setting for a bride to make her grand entrance.

For couples who are looking to tie the knot with the backdrop of the outdoors who also want an indoor venue close by, Park Crest Events has the best of both worlds. Beard says she loves being part of the event planning business and enjoys getting to meet new people. She is able to witness people in their happiest moments whether they are uniting in marriage, celebrating an anniversary or enjoying a special milestone in their lives. “It’s a fun and also a happy business to be in,” Beard said. For weddings, the facility offers in-house event coordinating, catering, floral, photography and other services for convenience. Couples getting married at Park Crest can create an online profile for their wedding guests that includes pictures, videos, dates, guest book, RSVP information and more. Park Crest Events also offers classic cars with makes such as Rolls-Royce, Jaguar and Cadillac for couples looking for a fun getaway for their wedding. In addition to weddings, the facility hosts bridal showers, anniversary celebrations, corporate Christmas parties, sorority formals and more. “We really try to offer a wide range of things,” Beard said. Beard hopes that more people will discover the facility, fall in love with its views and amenities, and use the area for their wedding or next event.

2030 Little Valley Road 822-7275 parkcrestevents.com

By KATIE TURPEN

Little Valley Road

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Park Crest Events

Read past Business Spotlights at HooverSun.com

Events Coordinator Kelli Beard stands in the Park Crest Gardens, a picturesque setting for outdoor weddings. Photo by Katie Turpen.

June 2014 • A11

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Restaurant Showcase Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato

Read past Restaurant Showcases at HooverSun.com

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By SYDNEY CROMWELL Il dolce far niente — an Italian phrase meaning “the sweetness of doing nothing.” For Benard Tamburello, this phrase means that when he is doing what he loves, it never feels like work. Tamburello has been a chef for more than 20 years, from his start at Gus’s Hot Dogs to Bernie’s on Main, which he currently owns in Columbiana. However, he had always wanted to own a pizzeria. With the help of his friend and architect Chad Bryant, Tamburello began planning an authentic Italian tavern-style restaurant. From exposed wooden beams in the ceiling to blue-tiled walls, Tamburello and Bryant planned every detail to look like a rustic Italian pizzeria. This plan became Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato, which opens this month at The Preserve. “We want to give you an experience like you were in Italy, just like they are in Naples,” Tamburello said. “This pizza’s like something you’ve never eaten before.” Vecchia is a tavern-style restaurant, with no waiters, individual tables or fancy dishware. Customers eat their pizzas with plastic forks, knives and cups at communal picnic tables made

Benard Tamburello has been in the restaurant business for more than 20 years. His new restaurant, Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato, opened in May at the Preserve. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

of recycled lumber. Tamburello hopes the atmosphere will encourage conversation between strangers as they enjoy their meals. “This is going to be all about the pie. No frills, no bells,” Tamburello said. “Just the most awesome pies you’ve ever had.” Most of the pizza ingredients, such as the pepperonis and tomatoes, are

shipped from Italy, and the mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce are made in-house. A local hydroponic farm provides organic, non-genetically modified basil. Vecchia also offers gluten-free pizzas, pastries, wine and 18 craft beers on tap, as well as a market with pastas, breads, balsamic vinegars and olive oils for sale. From raw ingredients to finished

pizza, the entire cooking process is visible to the public. Upon entering Vecchia, customers are greeted by a display of fresh ingredients and a window into the “dough room,” where the staff make pizza crusts, pastries and sausages. After placing their orders, customers can watch from the dining room as the staff cooks their pizzas in the restaurant’s distinctive

pizza ovens shipped from Naples, Italy. Cooking with these wood-burning ovens is an art form. Before Vecchia’s opening, Tamburello had to stay at the restaurant for several days to cure the ovens, keeping them at 100 degrees day and night. The ovens can reach 820 degrees, but each one has its own warm and cool spots that the staff must learn to use. Once perfected, however, the Vecchia ovens can cook a pizza in 90 seconds. “Those ovens are living, breathing machines. The guy that taught me in school how to cook in these ovens said that these ovens are literally dragons. And you have to tame these dragons,” Tamburello said. “Each one has got their own personality. They do not all cook the same.” The ovens have also caused some difficulties in opening the restaurant. They took two days to install properly, and Tamburello had to buy specially made ducts to comply with safety regulations. The challenges are worth it, though, when he sees customers enjoying Vecchia’s community and simple, delicious pizzas. “You have no idea how hard it is to open up a restaurant,” Tamburello said. “You just have to keep smiling, and the passion will be there.”

A12 • June 2014

Hoover Sun

Community Hoover student launches business venture

Scout earns rank of Eagle Jake Callahan, a member of Troop 23 from Discovery United Methodist Church, recently earned the highest rank in Boy Scouting and was recognized in a ceremony at the church in March. Troop 23 is under the leadership of Scoutmaster Ted Moyer. For his Eagle project, Callahan led friends and fellow scouts on construction of pasture fencing and gates and storage shelving at Special Equestrians, an equine therapy facility in Indian Springs. Special Equestrians’ mission is to provide high quality therapeutic horseback riding and equine assisted activities to people with physical, mental, developmental, and emotional disabilities. Callahan began scouting as a Cub Scout with Pack 393 at Discovery UMC earning the Arrow of Light and crossed into Troop 23 as a fifth-grader. Jake attended many camps including Philmont Scout Ranch and Florida Seabase Camp. Jake had 93 total camping nights, 102 hiking miles and earned 23 merit badges on his way to Eagle Scout. He served in many leadership roles including senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, and patrol leader during his time as a Boy Scout and was also elected to Order of the Arrow. Callahan is a senior at Hoover High School

Jake Callahan, a member of Troop 23 from Discovery United Methodist Church, has earned the highest rank in Boy Scouting.

where he has played lacrosse and served as senior class officer. He is also active with the youth at Bluff Park United Methodist Church. He is the son of Jerry and Lori Callahan of Hoover, and the grandson of Harold and Gerry Arndt of Hoover and Jerry and Ann Callahan of Oxford, Ala. Jake will attend Auburn University in the fall.

Hoover student Nyl Aziaya participates with a group that trains young boys, ages 1116, to become entrepreneurs. Photo courtesy of Joi Aziaya.

Typically, most eleven year olds are waiting for the newest iPhone upgrade or the latest applications to download but not Hoover resident and Brock’s Gap student Nyl Aziaya. He is a kidprenuer looking for the next business opportunity. Aziaya has started one of his business ventures, getting a head start before the summer months hit. In

April, Nyl launched his lemonade business at his grandmother’s house. He participates with a group that trains young boys, ages 11-16, to become entrepreneurs. Nyl travels around Jefferson County selling his lemonade. Call 370-9309 to book Aziaya for an event.

During a March City Council meeting, Troop 23 from Discovery United Methodist Church was recognized for their Eagle Scouts. They have had 12 scouts make rank. Top Row: Nathan Saab, Griffin Eagan, Christopher Spivey, Dillon Kent, Ari Hawk. Bottom Row: Hunter Fair, James Dykes, Jake Callahan, Cody Holt, Justin Holditch, Nicholas Bodden, Taylor Tucker. Photo courtesy of Michael Holt.

HooverSun.com

June 2014 • A13

Star Lake Garden Club to honor Wayne Thompson

Civitan Club supports research

The Hoover Civitan Club meets the second Thursday of each month at the Egg & I in Hoover at 11:30 a.m. The club’s mission is to serve the local community and also support research for the Civitan International Research Center at UAB. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Hoover Rotary Club hosts speaker from India

Wayne Thompson, one of Star Lake’s most faithful patrons, is shown here at the place he so dearly loved. Photo courtesy of Janet Richardson.

As many know, the late Wayne Thompson maintained a beloved tradition for nearly 40 years of feeding the ducks of Star Lake each day. Rain or shine, he came each day at 5 p.m., usually with his three-legged rescue dog in tow. In memory of Thompson, who passed away in February, and in recognition of his loyalty to the lake and the beautiful ducks

who call it home, the Star Lake Garden Club is raising funds to purchase a bench for the lake. Checks can be written to Star Lake Garden Club. Anyone who makes donations directly to the Club at 1853 Deo Dara Drive will receive a copy of a book written by Thompson’s wife, Eileen. -Submitted by Janet Richardson

Dr. Ashok Kapadia (second from left) is a former Rotary District Governor from India who recently spoke to the Hoover Rotary Club on his club’s efforts in India that include ending polio and heart disease. The Hoover Rotary Club meets Wednesdays at noon at the Hoover Country Club. Photo by Katie Turpen.

A14 • June 2014

Hoover Service Club presents awards

High school awards from left to right: Hoover High Scholarship winners Micah Smith, Jason McCay, Ashley Colburn, Kevin Borie; Spain Park High Scholarship winners Jenna Huerkamp, Jackson Cotney. Winners not pictured: Hoover High – Caroline Conrad, Kathryn Hatch; Spain Park High – Jacob Kimes, Madison Shore. Photos courtesy of Lynda Wasden.

During recent ceremonies at Hoover Country Club, the Hoover Service Club honored an outstanding civic volunteer and Hoover students who have excelled. The annual scholarship luncheon featured the presentation of scholarships to seniors at Hoover High School and Spain Park High School.

The scholarships were presented based on academic achievements, community service and financial need. Middle school students were honored with scholarship and citizenship certificates. President Jennifer Caton welcomed guests, including Mayor Gary Ivey, Hoover City Schools Superintendent

Hoover Sun

Middle school Scholastic and Citizenship Award winners from left to right: Bumpus Middle School winners Benjamin Pate (Scholarship), Tyler Kynard (Citizenship); Berry Middle School winners Katherine Voorhees (Citizenship), Grady Freeman (Scholastic); Simmons Middle School winners Jordan Beam (Scholarship), Riley White (Citizenship).

Andy Craig, Allen Pate, Councilman John Lyda, and a host of parents, grandparents and school personnel. Jamie Coston served as chairman of the scholarship committee along with Pam Edwards (co-chairman), Roberta Atkinson, Rhonda Boyd, Pam Crider, Elaine Thompson, Suzanne Wright and Carol Yurkovic.

Funds for the scholarships were raised by the Hoover club’s annual Hearts and Harmony Gala, which was held in February at the Embassy Suites Hotel. The Hoover Service Club also presented the 2014 Flora Mae Pike Community Service Award to Sara Perry. The award honored Perry,

a Hoover resident, for her outstanding volunteer service to the community. She is a founding member of the Bluff Park Art Association, charter member of the Hoover Arts Alliance, member of the Hoover Beautification Board and active in Bluff Park Methodist

Continued on next page

HooverSun.com

June 2014 • A15

Hoover Belles presented at annual ceremony

Mary Sue Ludwig presents the Flora Mae Pike Community Service Award to Sara Perry. Photos courtesy of Lynda Wasden.

2014-15 President Treva Medberry presented gavel by outgoing president Jennifer Caton.

Church. The award is named in memory of the founder of the service organization, Flora Mae Pike. Serving on the selection committee were Chairman Mary Sue Ludwig, Geona McPhatter and Pat Bendall. The outgoing president, Jennifer Caton, introduced Hoover Service Club officers for the coming year. They are: Treva Medberry president; Betty Daigle, first vice president; Carla Kanafani, second vice president; Susan Ivey, third vice president; Ann Taylor, recording secretary; Vicki Nutter, corresponding secretary; and Judy Holcombe, treasurer. -Submitted by Lynda Wasden

The Hoover Belles were presented at an annual ceremony in May at the Hyatt Regency. Photo by Nathan Pearman.

The 31st Annual Hoover Belle Presentation Ceremony was held on Sunday, May 4, at the Hyatt Regency - The Wynfrey Hotel Grand Ballroom in Hoover. The Hoover Belle Committee — Chairperson Sandra Barnett, Jennie Alley, Laura Boyd, Cathy Connor, Pam Harris, Jan Pruitt and Becky Walker — sponsored the presentation. Katie Boyd served as mistress of ceremonies. Flowers were by Flowerjoy, music was

provided by The Sonny Harris Group, and photographer was Nyeste Photography. Lieutenant Daniel Kane was the official escort. The Hoover Belles is a service organization that gives high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to volunteer and serve as ambassadors for the City of Hoover. -Submitted by Catherine Connor

A16 • June 2014

Hoover Sun

NO LINES

CREIGHTON

travel to the Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, the county courthouse in Bessemer or the courthouse annex in Center Point and stand in long lines to renew their car tags. DeMarco, a candidate for the state’s Sixth Congressional District seat to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus, said he supports Hoover’s effort to expand services beyond car tag renewals. “I wholeheartedly support giving cities the authority to move forward with offering more services to citizens,” he said. “I will work with Mayor Ivey and the city of Hoover to go the next step. We’ve talked about it. We’ve talked about sitting down with the Alabama Department of Revenue about the next step in allowing new tags as well as other services. We should be looking for opportunities to make services as convenient as possible for citizens.” In the meantime, Hoover residents whose tag renewal date is June are in luck. Ivey said the city has targeted June 1 as the day to begin renewing car tags. But with the SEC Baseball Tournament scheduled May 20-25, the start date may be pushed back further into June, the mayor added. Ingenuity Inc. of Pelham will handle car tag renewals for Hoover. According to the proposed agreement, Ingenuity will receive 90 percent of commission and fees associated with the renewal process, and the city will receive 10 percent. Hoover residents must pay an additional $5 to renew their tag locally. The service will only be for Hoover residents living in Jefferson County. Hoover residents in Shelby County will continue to renew their tags at their county location, but Shelby County doesn’t have the problem of long lines compared with Jefferson County, Ivey said. Ever since city officials announced Hoover would renew car tags, residents have been bombarding them with emails and phone calls in support of their proposal, Skelton said. “This will be an outstanding service for our citizens,” he said. “I have not heard one negative comment about it.”

himself. After losing his parents at a young age, he became the legal guardian of his four sisters. He married his high school sweetheart, had three children and became an Alabama State Trooper, ultimately working his way up to the rank of lieutenant. All that changed after a gambling addiction landed him in and out of prison three separate times. But today, the Hoover resident has turned his life around for the better, and now he takes his message of redemption to schools and churches across the state in hopes of making a difference.

CONTINUED from page 1

A humble beginning Creighton grew up in Clarke County in a small town called Grove Hill, the oldest of seven children with dreams of playing football at The University of Alabama and going professional. His dreams were put on hold due to an unfortunate series of events. His two brothers died as infants. When he was 16, his mother passed away from diabetes. Several years later, a car struck and killed his father while he was changing a tire on the side of the road. At age 19, Creighton assumed guardianship of his four younger sisters. “Those girls are grown and have families now, but they still treat me like I’m their dad,” he said. After high school graduation, he entered the U.S. Marines. He married his high school sweetheart, Allison, and ultimately decided he wanted to become an Alabama State Trooper. “I’m the kind of person that when I do something, I’m really dedicated to it,” he said. “I’m a go-getter. I got promoted early, one of the youngest guys in the state of Alabama to get promoted that early. I was 25 years old.” He was promoted to sergeant and eventually, lieutenant. He worked in various specialized units and recalls taking people to jail three or four at a time. “I think when I reached the rank of lieutenant I got a big head,” he said. After nearly two decades of being a respected state trooper, Creighton would soon

find himself on the other side of the law. Downward spiral One day while at a gas station filling up his patrol car, Creighton overheard several men talking about how much money they had won at the dog races. At that time, he and his wife were in the process of buying a house, and the thought of winning extra money was tempting. He decided to give it a try. He vividly remembers his four winning numbers: two, four, seven and eight. Those lucky digits won him $22,000 at the race that day. He was elated at the time but looking back, he sees how easily he fell into delusion. “I mistook pure luck that day for something else,” he said. His gambling grew and he began lying to his wife and eventually, writing bad checks. Checks for hundreds of dollars turned into checks written for thousands of dollars. One account opened turned into at least eight different accounts opened at various banks. His habit on the side had turned dangerous, putting both him and his family at risk. “I remember walking into the banks in my state trooper uniform, and unfortunately because of that I think I got away with it easier,” he said. “I even got my wife involved.” But he wouldn’t get away with things forever. Ultimately, the FBI began an investigation and he was sent to state prison in Montgomery. His first stay was 15 months. When he was released, he fell back into the habit and was sent back again. After six months, he was released but couldn’t stay out of trouble. After two chances to change things for the better, the judge showed no mercy and sentenced Creighton to 20 years in federal prison. Never a problem too big Creighton firmly believes in a saying his mother told him when he was young. “She always said there’s never a problem too big for God,” he said. He believes things began to turn around when he went to the Alabama Therapeutic

Educational Facility (ATEF), a residential reentry facility in Columbiana for people suffering from addictions. There, he was able to reflect on his life. “That place did so much for me. They really helped me channel my energy in a positive way where I didn’t have time to think about gambling,” he said. “I started telling them ideas about how I wanted to speak to children at schools.” In July 2009, he was released from prison on parole after three and a half years. Today, he is thankful for his loving wife and family for staying by his side and speaks to classes at ATEF. Creighton wrote a book detailing his experience titled Don’t Get Sidetracked, which was published in 2012. He said people are often surprised about the brutal honesty of the book, particularly about his time in prison. However, he feels it is his duty to candidly share his experience with children and reveal how easy it is to fall into the trap of addiction. Creighton is currently sponsored by 26 Hoover businesses, which allows him to give his books to as many children as possible. He takes the books with him to speaking engagements and is overwhelmed when children run up to him after his message, crying and giving him hugs. “I never thought I would find something I love as much as being a state trooper,” he said. “But, I just love talking to these children. It’s about doing something good.” He says he continues to get emails and calls daily from parents who are grateful for Creighton sending their children the message that every decision they make has consequences. He hopes to speak at Hoover High School and Spain Park High School in the near future. “The biggest point I want to make to these children is how easy it is to screw your life up. I don’t want these kids to think for one minute that it’s easy in prison,” he said. “I can’t believe what happened to my life. But the good Lord has taken a huge mess and used me in a positive way.” For more about Creighton or to purchase his book, visit matthewcreighton.com.

HooverSun.com

June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

June 2014 • A17

Shelby County Sheriff

Kip Cole

Larry McDow

Pelham Police Department.

1. What is your background? I have a BS degree in law enforcement. I have 30 years of law enforcement experience with the Birmingham Police Department uniform patrol and in investigations such as Major Felony Squad and Internal Affairs. I am currently with the

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? There two main crime issues facing our state/county and that is drugs and their manufacture, sale and use. All contribute to further crimes and victims. I would be very proactive in the use of every available resource including working with other law enforcement agencies to track down these individuals and put them out of business. The other growing crime issue is identity theft/phone and

3. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the local area in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The 280 corridor is becoming heavily populated, and with that, brings a greater potential for all types of crime. I believe in a strong police presence in the area by attacking the issues proactively and not merely responding in a reactive manner.

John Samaniego with Sheriff Curry in developing new operating procedures for the Sheriff’s Office, centralizing 911 communications, establishing new standards for community notifications of sex offenders and developing future leadership from within the Sheriff’s Office. 1. What is your background I have more than 35 years of law enforcement and command experience. After serving as the assistant chief of police for the Tuscaloosa Police Department, where I also served as the commander of the West Alabama Narcotics Task Force, Sheriff Chris Curry sought out John Samaniego to serve as his chief deputy. For over a decade, I have served

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? The greatest problem that we are facing is an increase in drug use. Drug addiction is not discriminatory across our country. Families in the wealthiest of communities can personally relate to the challenges of family members struggling with

1. What is your background? I have been a Shelby County resident for more than 21 years. I joined the Hoover Police Department in 1986 and since 2005 have served as the chief’s executive officer. I also served as commander of the Field Operations Bureau from 2008 to 2010.

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? Drug abuse is a problem not only for our state but it also continues to plague our country. Law enforcement across the state must continue the efforts to network and share information while maintaining an aggressive and proactive approach toward counter drug initiatives. I support the use of multi-jurisdictional drug task force operations and initiating an education and awareness program to warn our youth of the dangers related to drug activity.

1. What is your background? I grew up in a police family and was in law enforcement myself before starting my own corporate investigative agency, which I have operated for 22 years.

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? I believe it is drug-related crimes and acquiring appropriate funding to provide the proper services and equipment needed to combat that. As far as my plans for Shelby County, I plan on taking a consumer department that relies totally on taxpayer funding and building a more self-sustainable department by revenue-generating programs like a training academy, forensics lab, and a correctional

computer scams. I would use all possible means to inform and educate the public about these frauds to avoid becoming a victim.

addiction, just as families in some of the most impoverished areas of country. The greatest problem is our youth are falling victim to drug addiction as well. 3. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the local area and how would you address it? The City of Hoover has done an outstanding job in managing its public safety resources and protecting our citizens. However, crime exists nonetheless. As we experience growth, we must be prepared to keep pace with the population growth so that we can appropriately and adequately continue to serve our community.

3. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing Hoover and how would you address it? As the City of Hoover continues to grow, the police department must find innovative and new methods of maintaining the low crime rate Hoover is known for. I would continue to involve the community in the overall crime prevention initiatives to further reduce crime rates and increase overall public safety. Additionally, I would work to enhance school safety through the use of comprehensive threat and risk assessments.

Rick Needham

program focusing on rehabilitation and production of resources. Drug abuse affects all aspects of public safety and the safety of our families. 3. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the local area and how would you address it? I believe it is drugrelated crimes. I would work and partner with all surrounding municipalities in a cooperative effort to best address these needs, which overlap our county and multiple jurisdictions.

A18 • June 2014

Hoover Sun

Hoover High School football coach Josh Niblett to speak at June luncheon Medical West, an affiliate of UAB Hospital, will sponsor the June Chamber of Commerce luncheon and has invited Hoover High School football coach Josh Niblett as the speaker. Coach Niblett recently completed his sixth season at Hoover High School, where he has a record of 85 wins and six losses. He has led his team to the 6A state championship game all six years. His team finished as runner-up in 2008, 2010, 2011 and as 6A state champions in 2009, 2012 and 2013. His 2009 team finished 15-1, ranked seventh nationally in the USA Today top 25 poll. The 2012 and 2013 teams finished 15-0, ranked nationally in the USA Today, Rivals and Max Preps top 25 poll. His 2013 team accomplished two milestones this past season. One was the longest winning streak in school history at 30 wins, and the other was back-to-back 15-0 seasons. The 2013 team was also ranked as the National Champion High School Team in America. He came to Hoover from Oxford High School, where he coached three years with two playoff appearances and a 10-0 record in 2007. Before Oxford, he coached at Oneonta High School for five years, with a 51-14 record and five playoff appearances, a quarterfinal finish, two state final appearances and one state championship. Oneonta’s 2004 team was 15-0 for the first time in school history Coach Niblett was a three-year letterman at the University of Alabama, where he was member of the 1992 National Championship team. He was a three-time Academic All-SEC selection and in 1995 received the Scholar-Athlete award for The University of Alabama football program. He was also the recipient of two post graduate awards: the Paul W. Bryant Continuing Education award and the Hitachi ìPromise of Tomorrowî award. He has coached in the Alabama/Mississippi All-Star game three times with a record of 3-0, serving as the head coach in 2009, the offensive coordinator in 2006 and defensive

District 47 Representative David Wheeler Diane, and I live in Vestavia Hills and attend All Saints Episcopal Church.

1. What is your background? I’m a retired businessman, having worked for a large corporation and a family-owned business. I have been active in the Republican Party as chairman of the Jefferson County Republican Party as well as serving on the State Committee. My wife,

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? I believe the biggest problem facing the state is responsible budgeting and eliminating corruption in the state House. When the Republicans took the majority in 2010, we expected them to be different than the Democrats and stop promoting special interests and lining their own pockets. We have seen little difference. That is why I support term limits for elected officials.

3. What is the biggest issue facing Vestavia Hills? The biggest issue facing Vestavia Hills is the under-utilization of the Highway 31 corridor. There are too many vacant storefronts and unoccupied commercial space. I recommend a “buy and shop Vestavia” theme to encourage citizens to shop locally. We need to create tax incentives to bring more jobs and commercial development to Vestavia. With more jobs and successful businesses, our tax base will expand and provide needed revenue for education, transportation, and capital improvements.

Jack Williams From 1995-2003 I served as Jefferson County tax collector. During that time I oversaw the collection and distribution of over $400 million in property taxes for Jefferson County.

Hoover High School football coach Josh Niblett.

line coach in 2002. Niblett was an assistant coach in the 2012 Under Armour All-American Game and will be again in 2014. He served as the head coach in the 2013 U.S. Marines Semper Fidelis All-Star Game in Los Angeles. He is also the director and founder of Men of Will Ministries. He does motivational and lay speaking on occasions. He is married to the former Karon Harper and has three children, Shaw, Harper and Sky. The June 19 luncheon will be held at the Hoover Country Club. Networking begins at 11:15 a.m., with the program starting at noon. Reservations can be made by calling 9885672 or emailing admin@hooverchamber. org. The luncheon is $20, payable at the door, or $22 for walk-ins without reservations.

1. What is your background? Currently I have the opportunity to serve as chairman of the Commerce and Small Business Committee in the Alabama House of Representatives and as vice-chair of the Financial Services Committee. I have served in the House for 10 years. I am a partner in a new company Fairhope Capitol, LLC, and my prior business experience included managing acquisitions for a real estate portfolio.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The Alabama legislature will have to continue successfully reforming state government and maintaining a strong climate for economic development and job creation. It will be important to continue attracting new industry into the state and particularly into the Jefferson County area. To do that we will have to continue fighting for lean government (the current Republican legislature cut

the state’s General Fund by $700 million dollars during the past four years). 3. What is the biggest issue facing Vestavia Hills in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest problem facing Vestavia is continued growth opportunity for small businesses. At the state level we have passed legislation that requires new regulations to be examined to make certain they do not negatively impact the businesses they are regulating. I sponsored bills reforming our state unemployment compensation fund that led to an annual savings of over $20 million. We have to continue those fights and those reforms.

HooverSun.com

June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

June 2014 • A19

District 46 Representative Justin Barkley didn’t go to college, but I earned scholarships to Harvard and Alabama Law School. I am a practicing attorney representing employers and small businesses.

1. What is your background? My wife, Melissa, and I both grew up in Hoover, where we met in high school. We now live in Homewood, raising our four children, who attend elementary school at Shades Cahaba and preschool at Canterbury United Methodist. We’ve been married 11 years and attend Riverchase United Methodist. My parents

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Recently, corrupt politicians of both parties have made headlines. Public service should be a noble calling, not a career path. I have never run for office before. I will support term limits and a lifetime ban on lobbying by former legislators. I will be guided by my values and principles, rooted in my faith, and always do what’s

David Faulkner best for our community, not for special interests. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Hoover is our hometown. We attend the same Hoover church where we were married and our four children were baptized. Hoover is Alabama’s sixth largest city, but has no representative in the legislature. As a Hoover native and Hoover High graduate, I will provide strong, active leadership to ensure that Hoover remains a vibrant, growing community with firstrate schools.

1. What is your background? I am an attorney, and I have represented and defended individuals, small businesses and corporations in various civil matters for the past 20 years. I have been married to my wife, Nancy, for 16 years, and we have been blessed with three children. I am actively involved in my church and community, teaching Sunday school, coaching kids, and being active and a leader in

Pamela Blackmore-Jenkins Please see my website, electblackmorejenkins.org.

1. What is your background? I recently graduated from law school. I have been blessed with six children. My family and I have resided in Hoover for 13 years. We are members of Hunter Street Baptist Church, where I enjoy singing in the choir. I have participated in resolving issues throughout Hoover and I am a dedicated, hard working Republican.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state? Under utilization of resources. Ex.1 People Resource. We are in the bottom tier academically in our grade school and high schools. However, we have two of the best colleges in America. We have to give all children the proper skill sets to be successful at an Auburn and Alabama. Ex. 2 Land Resource. We are not utilizing the resources of the poorest area in the nation, which is the Black Belt. The Black Belt must be economically revived. Tax incentives, agriculture and

economic ills we face.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state? While I believe Gov. [Robert] Bentley has done a good job in turning Alabama’s economy in the right direction, we must get it running on all cylinders again. Because Jefferson County is the economic center of Alabama, when the state’s economy performs well, we do well, and when the state’s economy performs poorly, it affects us directly. I believe that targeted tax incentives, an emphasis on education and workforce development, and creating an overall pro-business atmosphere are the cure to the

3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? We have great schools within this district, and we must ensure their continued success. Everyone who lives in Birmingham is affected at some point by massive traffic congestion, so we must address the transportation problems that exist throughout House District 46 and Jefferson County. We must demand that the people who are elected or appointed to represent us in government are ethical and are serving for the right reasons. We can start with Water Works Board reform legislation being passed.

Steve French business pursuits and to serving the people of Alabama. I have been an active Republican all of my adult life and served part of Shelby and Jefferson County as state senator from 1998-2010.

manufacturing would develop the economic base in the Black Belt area. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? The local government must be in tune with maintaining the level of services and quality of life within the city of Hoover. Hoover has been a fast growing city that needs to continue to expand its tax base by looking for all opportunities for growing small businesses, creating a larger tax base that will alleviate issues with the financial school system.

the Chamber of Commerce.

1. What is your background? My wife, Betsy, and I have been married for 25 years and have raised all four of our daughters, Alex, 23, Sally, 20, Lizzie, 17, and Virginia, 12, in District 46, where they all attended public school. We are also very active members of Canterbury United Methodist Church. In addition to my family and church, I have dedicated myself to my

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? I think the greatest issue facing our state will be ongoing and stronger intrusion by the federal government into our lives, our businesses and our state. I have always believed that our problems can be solved here at home, and I will stand strong in my opposition to “one size fits all” solutions, like Obamacare,

that Washington tries to force on us. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? The biggest issue facing Hoover and Bluff Park is the deficit in the local school system budget. With my professional financial background, I can effectively help the area leaders reduce costs for educational needs and find the funding necessary to boost the school system to its highest potential, keeping the area desirable for current and future residents, as well as current and future businesses that provide jobs and influence the area.

A20 • June 2014

Hoover Sun

June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

U.S. House of Representatives Alabama District 43

1. What is your background? I have been a licensed attorney for 32 years. Currently, I practice law in a small office handling the types of problems that face individuals and businesses. I am also an arbitrator and trained in mediation. My legal experience includes five years in the equity courts handling matters that required extraordinary remedies, time

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? The main issue facing the state is funding. Alabama citizens deserve adequate funding for infrastructure, education, Medicaid, business development, prisons and the courts. I will work to cut wasteful spending, cut pork projects, and redirect and adequately fund all the items above, as well

1. What is your background? I am an attorney and small business owner and have operated a law firm in Shelby County for 10 years. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year?

John Bahakel as corporate counsel for a large communications company and appointment as a special judge. I am also a member of USA Track & Field’s law and legislation committee.

Gina McDonald

a group of sleepy neighborhoods to a major economic engine. I am endorsed by Rick Burgess of the Rick and Bubba Show, former Fox 6 news anchor Bill Bolen and Gun Owners of America. 1. What is your background? I have been married for 32 years and have raised three children. I am a family values, pro-life, committed conservative businessman who has lived and worked in Alabama House District 43 for more than 28 years. As a commercial real estate broker, I have been a part of growing it from

Cheryl Ciamarra

1. What is your background? I am a speech language pathologist with a master’s degree in communication disorders and am the small business owner of Ciamarra Communication Consulting. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the

upcoming year? Alabamians face oppressive federal government intrusion into our lives, eroding our privacy and individual freedoms. The Obama White House stands by Obamacare, which has robbed our people of jobs and the opportunity for affordable, choicedriven healthcare. It forces Common Core down our throats usurping the rights of parents and localities to make education choices, and it continuously invades our homes, phones and computers. Mandates from Washington are robbing

1. What is your background? I have been a small business owner in real estate for the last 40 years. I have been married to my wife, Martha, for 46 years and have two children and two grandsons. I have been involved with numerous civic organizations. I was the first Republican elected

1. What is your background? I am an optometrist and the founder and owner of Pelham Eye Care, a company I started in 1983. Since that time, the company has grown to employ three dozen people at three locations in our community. As a health care provider, I believe I am uniquely qualified to tackle the healthcare and Medicaid problems in our state. I have been married to my wife, Connie, for

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? It is critical that we continue to pursue economic growth in Alabama. We need conservative Republicans who will fight to reduce burdensome government regulation and government spending so the private sector can do what it does best — create jobs. As a small business owner, I understand what it takes to create jobs and grow our economy. I am also committed to fighting for

Obamacare is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s time for Alabama to push back forcefully against federal interference and provide bold, conservative Alabama ideas and solutions. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Obamacare, Common Core and jobs. Obamacare means fewer jobs because of excessive expenses added to businesses. Common Core is untested; our children are too precious for experiments. Parents must have the right to choose the school that best meets their child’s needs.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year Our state’s funding is the biggest issue. Our economy and future depends on our children. Our children’s futures are not bargaining chips. Education must be funded. Local issues that demand attention

include education, flooding, sewer cost and road projects. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Image. The people of Hoover have a strong voice, name and respect, not only in the state of Alabama but also throughout the Southeast in general. They deserve better than the image that is currently being portrayed. Let’s work together and find a better solution because no child in District 43 should have to pay to ride a school bus.

Amie Beth Shaver

our conservative values. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Hoover has prospered because it is a city that supports education. The city must continue to provide proper funding for our school system without raising taxes. We must also hold our School Board and City Council accountable and be creative with the resources we have to ensure our children receive the best education possible. I will work to support our education system by promoting high standards and passing balanced education budgets every year.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Washington, D.C. is the biggest issue. D.C. is the greatest barrier to job growth and raising our standard of living. Talk to any business owners throughout the state, and they will list a large number of laws and regulations that make job creation more difficult.

in Shelby County and have served as county commissioner, state representative and mayor. I am the only candidate with elected public experience. I am a hard-working, conservative, pro-life candidate.

Doug Clark over 30 years, and we have two beautiful daughters, Dru and Skylar. My family and I have attended Riverchase Baptist Church for 23 years.

3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? The major issue facing Hoover is maintaining economic development and job creation. Hoover needs to continue to incentivize businesses to come to the area.

Don Murphy

Alabamians of our freedom and hard-earned money, while liberal politicians attack our values. I will fight against such abuses of power! 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Hoover has a long reputation for stellar schools. However, if we fail to rid our state of Common Core, it will be a grave disservice. I will work to defeat Obama’s Common Core.

our children into the hands of their parents, continuing to encourage trade school education and making sound investments of our tax dollars designed to attract prospective businesses.

Arnold Mooney

as search for incentives for businesses to locate and grow in the state. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? District 43 and Hoover have top tier schools, businesses and attractions. Keeping them great requires adequate funding. I will work with city officials to attract more businesses to locate in Hoover, which, in turn, will generate sales tax revenues that can be used to fund schools, attract top students and teachers, create additional jobs, and pay for amenities like libraries and parks.

Economic development and job creation are the biggest issues facing our state. We need to find ways to incentivize business development with the least government restrictions. I have seen hundreds of small to mid size local business fail in the last 10 years due to increased federal and state regulation. Our state can create jobs and economic development by maintaining low tax rates on businesses and families, focusing on returning the education of

achievement is my family. They’re the reason I am running for office.

1. What is your background? I am a conservative commentator, speaker and author. I’ve worked with the Alabama Policy Institute, served as spokeswoman for the grassroots organization Allied Women and been a radio personality on the “Leland Live” talk show. My husband and I are small business owners. However, my biggest

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? The economy continues to be our biggest challenge. Alabama has the lowest unemployment rate in the Southeast, but it needs to be even lower. Gov. Bentley has done an amazing job at bringing companies like Remington and Airbus to the state. I look forward to working with his team on opportunities for our region. Additionally, we need to give our small businesses the support they need to grow. Lastly, I will work with

the Alabama Tourism Department to promote our great state. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? Hoover has been one of the fastest growing areas of the state, so much so that the U.S. Census Bureau now identifies the region as the Birmingham-Hoover metropolitan area. But growth at this rate can put a strain on the city services, especially the school system. I plan on working with city and school officials to make sure those needs continue to be met at their current high levels, whether through grants or partnerships with area corporations.

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June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

U.S. House of Representatives Alabama District 6 Scott Beason businesses over the years.

1. What is your background? I have been blessed to have served two terms in the Alabama House, and I am currently serving my second term in the Alabama Senate. I have a degree from The University of Alabama with a major in geology and a minor in English. I worked for a large corporation out of college and have owned multiple small

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing Alabama and the rest of the nation is how to get the economy on track and create jobs and opportunities for Americans. Elected officials on the federal level have done tremendous damage to the economy through over-regulation, faulty tax policy, overspending/burgeoning debt and Obamacare. The uncertainty caused by each of these factors must be alleviated. We must reduce regulation so that businesses can focus on operations. We

should eliminate the federal tax code and put in the Fair Tax. Last, but certainly not least, Obamacare has to be repealed and replaced. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing Hoover is the same as the one facing the State of Alabama and the rest of the nation. That is how to improve the economy and create jobs and opportunities for Americans. That is the surface answer, but the underlying problem is that the country is steering away from its founding principles.

Will Brooke

1. What is your background? I grew up here and attended the University of Alabama where I received degrees in business and law. I have spent my entire career in Birmingham and am a businessman. I have worked at Harbert Management Corporation for nearly 25 years and am chairman of our real

estate services group and managing partner of our venture capital funds. I like solving problems and have created hundreds of jobs in the Sixth District. My wife, Maggie, and I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children. We love our state and have been active in our church and other charitable and civic activities, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, United Way and McWane Center. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Why aren’t there any construction cranes on Birmingham’s skyline? Economic

development is essential to creating jobs and building a strong future for our city and state. That’s where I would focus. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? This community is part of a special area, and has much in common with the other communities around us. We should work together to reduce costs, improve services and connectivity, and solve shared problems. I would work with our mayors and councils to find solutions and resources and move the ball forward.

Paul DeMarco

1. What is your background? My wife, Jacqueline, and I live in Homewood. I am a two-term state representative of House District 46, which includes portions of Homewood, Hoover, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills. I was born and raised in Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. Jacqueline and I work here. We will raise our family here.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Washington is broken. Washington’s problems threaten the future of each person in Alabama and the Sixth District. Out-of-control deficit spending, the damage done to families and employers by Obamacare and federal regulations that threaten small and big business alike must all be addressed. As your state representative, I have always worked to support our schools. I have worked with city leaders to improve infrastructure needs. That will continue when I go to Washington.

Chad Mathis

1. What is your background? I’m a doctor and small business owner here in Birmingham. I’m typically asked on the campaign trail, “Why would a surgeon want to run for Congress?”, and I tell them it’s because I’m worried we are losing the American

and Hoover. The ill effects of Obamacare are no longer reserved to an evening newscast or the headlines of a newspaper, but in fact are something affecting our families, friends and neighbors on a daily basis. That’s why I have developed a 12-point plan to repeal and replace Obamacare with patient-centered, market-driven reforms. I hope you will join me in this fight to give healthcare back to the patient, opportunity back to small business, and help keep that American dream alive for hardworking Alabamians.

2/3. What is the biggest issue facing our state/ Hoover in the upcoming year? For the first time in a long time, the biggest issue facing our nation is the biggest issue we face here in Alabama

Gary Palmer

1. What is your background? I’ve worked for small business, two major engineering companies and, for the last 24 years, led the Alabama Policy Institute, a public policy think tank ranked as Alabama’s most influential conservative group. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year?

There are two huge issues: the impact of Obamacare on businesses and continued high unemployment. Congress must repeal Obamacare and replace it with a patient-centered, market-based plan that puts people in charge of their health care decisions, establishes a national insurance pool for people who can’t get insurance or can’t afford it, and that eliminates the economic uncertainties faced by businesses. With 1 of 6 men age 25-54 unemployed, Congress should utilize our vast God-given energy resources to create jobs and stimulate the economy. In one shale formation out West alone

there are 3 trillion barrels of recoverable oil — three times what the entire world has used in 100 years — and the federal government owns almost 80 percent of it. The abundance of natural gas has resulted in cheaper energy that is driving a manufacturing boom that is benefiting Alabama. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? In the context of federal issues, the impact of Obamacare on Hooverbased medical practices and businesses and the stagnant economy. Repeal and replace Obamacare and open up federal energy resources.

Robert Shattuck

1. What is your background? I am a retired lawyer. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year and how would you address it? My biggest issue, which

affects Alabama and all the states, is that Congress is kaput and unable to do its job for the American people, and government has failed us. I link that failure to the influence of money in politics. Congress will not, on its own, fix this, and only the people can force the necessary changes to be made. My idea is for Alabama, on June 3, to become a spearhead for an uprising of voters around the country. This will make the 2014 elections a linchpin whereby the incumbent Congress is forced by

the voters to agree on a grand reform plan prior to election day in November. If the voters think that Congress, and their representatives and senators, have done a credible job in the grand reform plan that Congress proposes, that can be a significant reason for voters to vote for their incumbents. If Congress is not able to agree on a grand reform plan before election day, or if the voters think the plan proposed does not do enough for change, that would be a reason to vote against incumbents.

Tom Vigneulle

3. What is the biggest issue facing Hoover in the upcoming year? I have been proud to represent the people of Hoover in the state legislature. The people of Hoover, like every other community, want to continue to prosper. As your congressman, I will fight to protect small businesses from overreaching regulations that threaten jobs. I will support a balanced budget amendment. I will work to repeal Obamacare. We must focus on a limited government that helps rather than hinders the people.

dream. I was the first in my family to graduate college and worked in the same factory as my father to pay for that education. Hard work and sacrifice enabled me to earn my version of the American dream, but that dream is no longer attainable for many Alabamians.

1. What is your background? I come from a background of service. My father was Dr. Richard (Dick) Vigneulle. He was the executive vice president of City Federal Savings & Loan and president of Service Corporation. He

later answered the call to the ministry, becoming the founding pastor of Shades Mountain Independent Church in Hoover. I also learned from him the value of hard work and commitment. Two years after marrying my wife Ginger, we started our own business in Pelham, Royal Bedding Manufacturing, Inc., in August of 1987. Since that time, I have mastered the bedding industry and learned the challenges of owning a small business. For 26 years, I have had to balance a budget and make hard

decisions on spending priorities. I also know what it’s like to face federal regulations on a daily basis. As a small business owner, it hasn’t always been easy, but the values my father instilled me has allowed us to persevere and live out the American dream. And it’s that dream that I feel is under attack and is the reason I am running. My wife and I also own a family cattle farm in Wilsonville and are members of the Cattlemen’s Association of Alabama.

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Sun HooverSun.com

June 2014 • B1

School House B9 Sports B11 Calendar B13

Handmade in Hoover

SECTION

Local culinary incubator promotes eating local By KATIE TURPEN

Food entrepreneurs at Chef’s Workshop include caterers, bakers, mobile food vendors and specialty food product makers. Photos by Katie Turpen.

or monthly basis. Three are chef’s kitchens and one is specifically equipped for When Bob Lepley reached retirebakers. ment, he realized he still had work to Chef’s Workshop also offers basic food do. After owning a real estate company education, marketing support and an area for 27 years, he was ready to set his for events such as food tastings. Lepley sights elsewhere. encourages entrepreneurs to use this area “I decided I wanted to do something to meet with clients and promote their new and different,” Lepley said. products. He observed a void in the local food He said one of his main goals for the market. In April 2013, Lepley opened business this year is to develop relationChef’s Workshop, a unique business ships with grocers to help them sell local incubator of the food world, in Hoover. products in their stores. He said he hopes Though not a chef, Lepley said he felt to partner with Piggly Wiggly, Western, there were many people creating food Whole Foods and Fresh Market. products in their homes that were not “Birmingham has really become a hot able to take their business to the next Bob Lepley is the owner of area for food culture,” Lepley said. “We Chef’s Workshop, a shared-use level professionally. have two culinary schools and boast some commercial kitchen located off Lepley’s facility gives caterers, Lorna Road in Hoover. of the best restaurants in the South. It’s bakers, mobile food vendors and speso important to create these small food cialty food product makers a location communities.” in which they can comply with health regulations and obtain As Lepley continues to support small business entrepreproper permits to conduct their food business in a profes- neurs selling everything from noodles to pimiento cheese to sional manner. dog biscuits, he looks forward to a strong future for Chef’s “People are able to network and share experiences here,” Workshop. He currently rents to 18 food entrepreneurs, and Lepley said. “This support enables clients to not just go at it has seven more in the permit process. alone and benefit from the knowledge of others.” For him, it’s just the beginning. Swing open the front doors of Chef’s Workshop, and the “I would be thrilled if the next Sister Schubert could say “Handmade in Hoover” sign hangs over a display full of they got their start here,” Lepley said. “The excitement various local treats made right inside. The 5,000-square- people have here is contagious.” foot facility houses four private professionally equipped For more information, visit chefsworkshop.com commercial kitchens available for rent on an hourly, daily

B2 â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

Stroll through the Gardens

Since Aldridge Gardens opened in 2002, it has become a popular attraction in the greater Birmingham area. The young garden showcases hydrangeas, including the Snowflake Hydrangea, which

was patented by Mr. Aldridge and is now the official flower of the city of Hoover. Other features include an event venue and gallery, an outdoor pavilion, a sixacre lake and a half-mile walking

Hoover Sun

trail. The Gardens also host plant sales, art exhibits and shows, classes and seminars, bird walks, fishing days, concerts and more. For more, visit aldridgegardens.com

(left) Artists display their work at the annual Art in the Gardens. (above)

Campers enjoy learning about space at Astronauts at Aldridge. Photos courtesy of Aldridge Gardens.

Summer camps 2014

Hydrangeas Under The Stars

June 2-6: Astronauts at Aldridge, World of Make Believe: Wizards and Fairies June 9-13: American Girls June 16-20: Tales and Treasures, American Girls, Nature Sleuths June 23-27: Critter Detectives, American Girls, Nature and Art

June 13 Cocktail reception, 6 p.m. Dinner and live auction, 7:30-9 p.m.

This year Aldridge Gardens has 10 exciting adventures to choose from. Camps will each be five days long, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to noon. Mid-morning snacks and juice will be provided. Cost for members at Harmony (family) level or above is $90 per week and is $115 per week for nonmembers and individual members. Refunds will be issued only if the session is filled or canceled by Aldridge Gardens. Pre-registration is required. If you have questions, contact Audrey Ann Wilson at 682-8019 or aawilson@aldridgegardens.com.

This event is the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier garden gala with Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey and Carolyn Ivey. Enjoy a special evening of great food, entertainment and live auction, all to benefit Aldridge Gardens. Auction items include a voyage for two down the Amazon River, Plein Air painting of Aldridge House by Amy Peterson, original sculptures by Frank Fleming and Robert Taylor and much more. Tickets can be purchased online, at Aldridge Gardens, or at the Iberia Bank branch located at 2765 John Hawkins Parkway. For more information on Hydrangeas Under the Stars or to become a sponsor, contact Tynette Lynch at tlynch@aldridgegardens.com or call 205.682.8019, ext. 7.

12th annual Art in the Gardens June 21-22, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Some of the best artists in the country live right here in Alabama. This is your chance to stroll through the gardens and see the works of some of the best artists in the country and to also shop. More than 50 artisans will compete for category and best of show awards in this juried open-air show that only features Alabama artists. There will be painting, mixed media, jewelry, woodworking and more.

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June 2014 • B3

Jump into summer at the library

The Hoover Public Library offers more than just reading materials. The facility offers cultural programs and experiences for all ages. This

month, the library will feature summer reading programs, Alabama history and bluegrass/folk music.

For more information, visit hooverlibrary.org. For a complete list of Hoover Public Library events, see the Hoover Sun calendar.

Herb Trotman Band

Thursday, June 19, 6:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Free event.

Summer reading programs June-July

The annual summer library program is designed to motivate children to read all summer long. Children read whatever they choose and can track their pages to earn tickets to spend on neat prizes. Children who read during the summer retain their skills from the previous school year and are ahead of the game when they start back school in the fall. Any age child can join. Babies through sixth grade sign up

in the children’s department for “Fizz! Boom! Read!” and teens in grades 7-12 sign up in the teen department for “Spark A Reaction: Read!” This year’s themes are science based. Bubblemania is one of several programs that will be offered as part of Hoover Public Library summer reading events. Photo courtesy of Hoover Public Library.

Wilder Adkins

Sunday, June 8, 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Free event. Wilder Adkins grew up just outside of Atlanta hearing the old folk songs his father used to play. As a young man, he briefly lived in a small village in India where he learned to sing in the unabashed style of rural folk singers. He now lives in Birmingham and sings songs about simple things like faith and nature. His

The Herb Trotman Band was founded in 1992 and focuses on bluegrass as well as instrumental arrangements and vocal harmonies. Photo by Herb Trotman.

lyrics are courtly, but witty and evoke a Deep South Shelley or Yeats on top of dexterous guitar playing. Call 444-7821 for more information.

Digging Up Antebellum Alabama Thursday, June 12, 2 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms.

Calling all history buffs, antebellum enthusiasts and lifelong learners: Widely known speaker

Wilder Adkins learned to sing in the style of rural folk singers in a small village in India. Photo by Kevin Ihle.

and local historian Jim Phillips will take you back in time during his talk about antebellum Alabama at the Hoover Library on June 12. Mr. Phillips will discuss the history of our state during the antebellum era, in addition to historical accounts of early pioneer settlements and plantations. These remarkable stories include Mary Gordon Duffee, the Stagecoach Pass and

Alabama’s Civil War history. In addition, he will bring various artifacts and historical relics from his portable museum. There will be a question-and-answer session after the presentation. Come by, take a seat, and travel back in time. We hope to see you there. Call 444-7840 for more information.

Herb Trotman is a master banjo player and the owner of Fretted Instruments, a music shop in Homewood. Trotman founded the band in 1992 along with several friends who frequented his store. The group focuses on bluegrass but can move among several genres with the greatest of ease, highlighting their clever instrumental arrangements and tight vocal harmonies. More than 20 years later, the band is still going strong with Trotman on banjo and guitar, Kathy Hinkle on bass, Jimmy Warren on mandolin and guitar, Gathel Runnels on fiddle and Andy Meginniss on guitar and bouzouki. Call 444-7821 for more information.

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B4 • June 2014

Celebrations Holmes-Hunter

Lauren Ashley Holmes and John Webb Hunter were married March 22 at Swann Lake Stables in Birmingham. Dr. Sam Tate, uncle of the bride, officiated the ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Holmes of Hoover. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Louise Supple of Hurtsboro and the late Mr. Jimmy Supple and the late Mrs. Mildred Supple of Hurtsboro as well as the late Mr. Frank Holmes Sr. and Ms. Marilyn Holmes of Cusseta, Ga. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Hunter of Vestavia Hills. He is the grandson of Mrs. John W. Proffitt of Maryville, Tenn., the late Mrs. Martha Sherer Proffitt and the late Mr. John W. Proffitt of Maryville as well as the late Mr. Hugh Hunter Sr. of Mountain Brook and the late Mr. and Mrs. David Hamilton of Mountain Brook. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a Marisa dress

made of ivory Alencon lace and charmeuse with a silhouette keyhole back and sweetheart neckline. The floor length mermaid skirt had a chapel length lace train. The bride wore an ivory finger tip length veil borrowed from her sister. Stephanie Holmes Watkins, sister of the bride, was matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Christy Robinson Davis, Courtney Sturm Gibbs, Kate Russell Lyle and Michelle Mummert. Emma Tate, cousin of the bride, and Blakely Lyle were flower girls. Grayson Hunter, brother of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were Travis McArdle, Kevin McCroskey, Jonathan Norman and Dave Sarver. Lochran Hunter and Parcus Hunter, cousins of the groom, were ring bearers. After a honeymoon trip to Saint Lucia, the couple reside in Birmingham.

Henry-Heinisch

Mr. and Mrs. William L Henry, Jr. of Hoover are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Krista Louise Henry, to Christopher Ryan Heinisch, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Dias and Mr. Randy Heinisch of Atlanta, Ga. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Jackson Rollins Jr. of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. William Henry formerly of Hoover. Miss Henry graduated from Hoover High School in 2006 and graduated from The University of Alabama in 2010 with a degree in psychology. She was a member of Sigma Alpha Lambda, Gamma Beta Phi, Phi Eta Sigma, Alpha Gamma Delta and WKU Rotaract Club. She is currently employed at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Ky. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. Edward Haynes Dodson and Ms. Dodson and Mr. and Mrs. Max Heinisch of Atlanta, Ga. Mr. Heinisch graduated from Sandy Creek High School in 2006 and graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a degree in criminal justice. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Lambda Honors Society. He is currently employed at Integrity Adjusters in Daphne, Ala. The wedding will be held on May 31, 2014 at Riverchase United Methodist Church.

Slack-Miller

Dr. and Mrs. James D. Slack of Hoover announce the engagement of their daughter, Sarah Ashley Slack to Brandon Scott Miller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Miller and Ms. Sue Miller of Opelika, Ala. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Larry Dunn of Mt. Pleasant, Texas and the late Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Slack, formerly of South Amherst, Ohio. Miss Slack is a 2010 graduate of Hoover High School. She will graduate in May from Auburn University and has been accepted into the Master’s of Social Work Program at The University of Alabama. The prospective groom is the grandson of Dr. Don Miller of State College, Pa., the late Mrs. Carol Miller formally of Notasulga, Ala. and the late Ms. Eva Slay also formerly of Notasulga, Ala. Mr. Miller is a graduate of Auburn University. He is employed as a prep sports writer for The Anniston Star. The couple plan a March 14, 2015, wedding to be held at Bluff Park United Methodist Church in Hoover.

Have an engagement, wedding or anniversary announcement? Email rebecca@hooversun.com to have it included in an upcoming issue!

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Celebrating dad

June 2014 • B5

Hoover residents share thoughts on fathers Deer Valley fourth grade teacher Emily Douglas celebrating the Fourth of July with her dad, Sam.

“You are never too old to be a daddy’s little girl!” –Carol Lollar “Happy Father’s Day to my mentor, my rock and my life-long encourager! You are such a genuine, personable, selfless, motivated, humble, Godly man! I love your ‘roll-with-it’ mindset and how you strive to finish strong in all that you do. I have always admired your tender spirit mixed with your strong devotion to doing the right thing. You are one of the smartest men that I know. I love who you are, dad!” – Dana Stewart, pictured with her father Sandy Hughes

“My father, Randy Kimble, was a Green Beret and lived by the motto, ‘De Oppressor Liber,’ Latin for ‘To free the oppressed.’” – Lori Kimble-McCombs

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B6 • June 2014

In Living Color alum Tommy Davidson brings stand-up act to Hoover By REBECCA WALDEN In keeping with its tradition of showcasing A-list comedic talent, Hoover’s own Comedy Club Stardome will welcome Tommy Davidson for a four-night engagement June 5-8. Davidson is a familiar face to many, given his role as one of the original cast members of the 1990s television show, In Living Color. Since then, he’s gained notoriety for his roles in scores of major motion pictures and television shows. Davidson’s comedic timing and spot-on impersonations, the very elements that helped launch his stand-up career, have also found the actor success in voiceover work, most recently as Oscar Proud in the animated television series, The Proud Family. In a recent conversation with the actor, Davidson told the Hoover Sun that his fan-favorite hallmark impersonations — Sammy Davis Jr. and Sylvester Stallone, among others — will be part of the act he brings to Hoover in early June, along with new material. Post-tour, Davidson said he’s looking forward to nurturing several special projects he has in the works, including documentary work and even writing his own book. Even so, Davidson admitted he can’t stay away from the stand-up stage very long. “If I am not on stage working, there will come a time when I must go on stage,” he said. “It’s just a part of me.” His passion for the craft is evident and has been from the start. A friend nudged a 20-yearold Davidson, then working as an assistant chef at a Ramada Inn, to take a chance doing stand-up one evening at a D.C.-area club. “This guy was a friend I’d grown up with, and he told me one day, ‘You are the funniest person I’ve ever met,’” said Davidson, who added he’d never before given his comedic talent much

thought. “He said, ‘You really ought to be doing stand-up comedy,’ and then he followed through by setting up an opportunity for me at this club where his band worked on the weekends.” Though Davidson said he did the routine cold, with virtually no preparation, the audience responded. And as fast as he’d been plucked from obscurity, Davidson found his star beginning to rise. The performer’s sincerity has proved to be one of his most winning ingredients with fans. “I just want to be the kind of person that people feel happy being around,” he said. To that end, the actor has made multiple trips to perform his act for U.S. military troops serving in Afghanistan. “These are the people doing the dirty work,” he said. “Their sacrifices help us have a safe place to live, provide solid educational opportunities for our children, and enjoy countless other freedoms. They give their lives for it. It’s a really deep notion to know that this is happening, but it’s even more important to acknowledge it through action. For me, going to these military installations and sharing a little bit of light and laughter is a natural outgrowth of what I’ve been wanting to become.” People who attend Davidson’s shows can look forward to an opportunity to visit with him postshow. For Davidson, that offstage time with guests who relate to his brand of humor and his knack for finding levity in the unexpected, is one of his favorite parts of touring. Tommy Davidson will appear live at the Comedy Club Stardome, June 5, 6, 7 and 8. The June 5 and June 6 shows start at 7:30 p.m. There are two shows on Saturday night, June 7, with the first at 6:30 p.m. and the second show at 8:45 p.m. The June 8 show starts at 6:30 p.m. To learn more or purchase tickets for the show, visit stardome.com.

Hoover’s Comedy Club Stardome will welcome Tommy Davidson for a four-night engagement June 5-8. Photo by Dominic Petruzzi.

HooverSun.com

Musician Spotlight:

June 2014 • B7

Mimi Jackson By SYDNEY CROMWELL

Hoover resident Mary K. “Mimi” Jackson has spent her life composing and performing music. She is a trained vocalist and plays both the piano and the organ. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Hoover composer Mary K. “Mimi” Jackson does not remember the first time she sat in front of a piano. Her mother was a concert pianist and her father was a singer, so music has always been a part of her life. “I really do not remember how early it was, I just remember there was a box under the piano for my feet so I wouldn’t swing them,” Jackson said. Her music was more than just a pastime. Jackson studied vocal performance at Birmingham-Southern College and went on to study composition and conducting as a graduate student. Her decades-long music career has spanned a variety of jobs on several continents. Jackson has composed music for churches from Alabama to Singapore, accompanied the Alabama Symphony, worked as a chorus master for Opera Birmingham and had her compositions performed in the U.S. and in Europe. “There’s really something wonderful about hearing people perform something you created. I suppose that’s really what creativity should be about,” Jackson said. “It’s gratifying to know that people appreciate what you do.” Besides the international recognition, music has also played a very personal role in Jackson’s life and family. Her sister is a choir director, her brother is an internationally recognized opera singer and her youngest daughter teaches music at Florida State University. When the family gathers at Christmas, Jackson said they spend much of their time singing and making music together. “It’s just been the tie that’s kept

everything together, I suppose, in my life,” Jackson said. Jackson draws inspiration for many of her compositions from the words she is trying to express through music. Other times, though, inspiration strikes her randomly and she will work all night to finish a piece. Jackson also said she frequently feels more creative now than in the early days of her career. “I don’t know that any creative person can tell you where an idea necessarily comes from. Sometimes they’re just there and you don’t know why,” Jackson said. “Some people would call that a gift; I don’t know. I’m just thankful that it happens.” Even after decades spent as a composer and musician, Jackson has no desire to slow down. She continues to work with Opera Birmingham and serves as a vice president on the Alabama Symphony Volunteer Council. “I’m going to keep doing what I do for as long as I am capable,” Jackson said. “There’s no reason to quit.” In May, Jackson released a new album called “Songs of Freedom, Justice and Peace,” which is a joint project with her brother, Steven Kimbrough. The songs are based on the poetry of slaves and famous African-American authors such as Langston Hughes, as well as the poetry of her uncle Edwin Kimbrough. Jackson also took some well-known proverbs and set them to music. “It’s really some pretty powerful poetry,” Jackson said. “Songs of Freedom, Justice and Peace” was released by Arabesque Records and is available on iTunes and Amazon.

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B8 â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

Summer Fun Photo Contest Capture the fun of summer with your camera and send us your favorite shots of wherever you and your family are.

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Deadline is August 3, 2014 Prizes will be awarded to contest winners Category 1: Any summer fun photo Category 2: A summer fun photo displaying a copy of Hoover Sun wherever you are To enter, e mail your photos in a jpeg format to photos@hooversun.com Please send high quality images and include a caption and photo credit. Only four photos are allowed per person.

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School House Hoover students selected to All State Band

June 2014 • B9

SPHS Winterguard finishes strong season

The SPHS Junior Varsity Winterguard. Front row: Sarah Gray, Aqiea Cole, Diana Duran, Yulya Plaia and Esther Mwangota. Back row: Instructors Lindsay Holden and Gary Christopher, Ashlyn Kortman, Emilee Butler, Melodi Shaw, Savannah Wayland, Sydney Mackay and Emily Chastain. Photos courtesy of Shelley Shaw.

Hoover students Rahul Shah, Erin McAfee, Cory Cheung, Kate McAfee and Britton Bullock all earned placement at the Alabama All State Honor Band. Photo courtesy Maelynn Cheung.

Five Hoover students earned placement at this year’s Alabama All State Honor Band. They performed at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville in April. There were three high school bands (Red, White, and Blue) and one middle school band. Those selected include Hoover High School students Cory Cheung, Erin McAfee,

Kate McAfee and Britton Bullock and Simmons Middle School student Rahul Shah. Cory Cheung earned the top spot in the state this year on trombone. Last year, he earned the top spot in the state on tuba. This is the second consecutive year being selected for the high school honor band for both Cory Cheung and Kate McAfee.

The SPHS Varsity Winterguard. Front row: Tessa Buttram, Haley Hill, Madeline Brandon, Alexis Mackay, Danielle Johnson, Jasmine Washington and Alana Ingram. Back row: Emily Jackson, Hayden Alexander, Mackenzie Mullins, Molly Henson, Tiffany Lewis and Mahaa Mahmooda.

Members of Spain Park High School’s Varsity and Junior Varsity Winterguard have completed their 2014 season. Each group participated in contests from January through March with the Southeastern Color Guard Circuit. The circuit focuses on creativity and freedom of expression through pageantry and the performing arts. Highlights from the season include JV placing

first in the St. James High School contest in Montgomery along with winning third place overall in their class at the SCGC Color Guard Championships held in March at Belmont University. The Varsity Winterguard won second place at the St. James High School contest and was ranked sixth overall in their class at the championship level.

Hoover Sun

B10 • June 2014

Rocky Ridge Elementary’s Anson named to state teacher of the year final four In May, Hoover teacher Ellen Anson was named a final-four candidate for Alabama Teacher of the Year. Anson has been teaching for 39 years and received her education from the University of West Florida and A&M University. She currently teaches in Rocky Ridge Elementary School’s multi-handicapped, self-contained classroom. Before she even stepped into her first class, Anson knew she wanted to spend her career teaching special needs children to help others see beyond their mental and physical limitations, a release from the Alabama State Department of Education reads. Each child, Anson believes, is capable of some level of communicating, whether it is a look in their eyes, the intonation of vocalizations, or a simple gesture. It is her job to help them be heard. “I have learned that while I am thrilled with major accomplishments, it is the tiny steps of progress that my students make that keep me enthusiastic,” Anson said in the release. “It is their smiles when they are understood and their excitement when they accomplish a task that keep me celebrating and dedicated to teaching them day after day, year after year.” Anson uses assistive technology to help her students become more active participants in the school community, which includes creating virtual field trips and producing programs on mobile devices to teach a broad range of concepts. “I am blown away by her ingenuity

Students in Katie Collins’ first grade class and Jill Foshee’s third grade classd presented their findings from a yearlong study on global issues at a Living Musuem in May. Photos by Katie Turpen.

Ellen Anson, Elementary Teacher of the Year. Photo courtesy of Hoover City Schools.

and resourcefulness,” said Jennifer Helenius, Anson’s colleague. Outside of the classroom, Anson is involved with the Special Olympics, the Board of the Evening Star Quilters and various programs at her church, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Hoover. The 2014-2015 Alabama Teacher of the Year, Marie Corgill of Cherokee Bend Elementary School in Mountain Brook, was announced at a ceremony hosted by the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education on May 14, at the RSA Plaza Terrace in

Montgomery. Other finalists were Christopher D. Payne of Dothan High School and Carrie Jones of Hewitt Trussville High School. Alabama’s Teacher of the Year spends the majority of the school year serving as the spokesperson for education and the teaching profession as well as presenting workshops to various groups. Additionally, Alabama’s representative is a candidate for the National Teacher of the Year Award.

Gwin Elementary students present project on global issues During the 2013-2014 school year, Gwin Elementary School students in Katie Collins’ first grade class and Jill Foshee’s third grade class teamed up to learn how to make a positive change in the world. Collins and Foshee co-wrote and received a grant from the Hoover City Schools Foundation to undergo a yearlong study on global issues.

Their classes worked collaboratively to learn about government, democracy, world geography, community, entrepreneurship, plants, sustainable farming, conservation, money, careers and how to become better citizens at home and around the world. In May, the students presented their findings to community members at a Living Museum entitled “Project First Class Citizens.”

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June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ B11

Sports Hoover High School spring signing day

Asia Hart and Jeremy Harris will run track at Queens University of Charlotte. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Jessica McElderry will play volleyball at Southeast Missouri State University. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Walter McDole will play basketball at Iowa Central. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Baseball players Ian Kirk, Cavan Breland and Brantley Ballenger signed baseball scholarships. Ballenger will play at WallaceHanceville, Breland will play at Millsaps College and Kirk will play at Central Alabama Community College. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Hoover Sun

B12 • June 2014

Berry Middle School’s girls golf team claims championship

SPHS tennis champions In April, Kendal Holladay and Daryn Ellison won the Alabama State 6A Championship for tennis doubles. The tournament was held in Mobile and the team defeated Opelika, Decatur, Mountain Brook, Huntsville and Vestavia to claim the number one spot in the state. Ellison is a freshman at Spain Park High School and Holladay is a sophomore at Spain Park High School. They were both undefeated all season. Their team coach is Amber Lewis. Photo courtesy of Heidi Espey.

Hoover Soccer Club team claims state title

Berry Middle School golf team members Jessica Shaw, Caroline Waldrop, Lauren Choi, Caroline McCabe, Tanya Gupta and Sarah Nelson. Photo courtesy of Jason Gaston.

Berry Middle School’s girls golf team has once again emerged as champion of the annual Girls Metro South Golf Tournament. The tournament, held in April at the Highland Park Golf Course, featured nine area teams. Berry’s overall score was 135. R.F. Bumpus Middle School’s girls golf team placed second with a score of 148 with Carson McKie winning the trophy for

best round with a 37. “The tournament went very well thanks to Mace Muse at Highland Park and the wonderful ladies at the Lady Legacy Foundation who volunteered their time to help officiate,” Lincoln Clark, Berry Middle School teacher and girls golf team coach said. -Submitted by Jason Gaston

The Hoover Soccer Club’s Phantoms 02 White team took first place in the 2014 State Cup U12 8v8 soccer tournament, silver division held in May. This team’s back to back win is a Hoover Soccer Club first. Members are Lane Gilchrist, Daniel Fuller, Zach Bowen, Greyson Wilkins, Logan Bradley, Kevin Valentino, Owen Wenning, Andrich Raschke, Mason Berg, Bryant Segars, Constantine Hontzas, Matthew Gonzales, Blaine Crook and Coach Jeff Brannon. Photo courtesy of Lyric B. Crook.

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June 2014 • B13

Community Calendar Hoover Events June 6: Friday Night Flicks. Mr. Peabody & Sherman. Veterans Park. Film starts at dusk.

entertainment, drinks, dinner and delight with silent and live auctions. All proceeds benefit Aldridge Gardens. Visit aldridgegardens.com.

June 7: Know More Orphans 5K. 8 a.m. Veterans Park. This race benefits ALTAR84, a nonprofit that helps churches help families who are investing their lives to adoption and foster care.

June 13: Friday Night Flicks. Veterans Park. Film starts at dusk. Frozen. June 14: Glow in the Park 5K. 5:3010:30 p.m. Hoover Met. The ultimate party fun run benefitting the American Diabetes Association. Visit glowintheparkrun.com.

June 12: Hoover Civitan Club meeting. 11:30 a.m. The Egg & I. June 12: High School Baseball Tournament. Hoover Met.

June 17: Senior Health Fair. 8:30-11 a.m. Hoover Senior Center.

June 13: Hydrangeas Under The Stars. 6-9 p.m. Aldridge Gardens. A night of live

June 19: Retirement Forum Event. 7 p.m.,

The Galleria Tower, Suite 955. The Retirement Center is hosting Paul A. Cleveland who will discuss how federal policy impacts your financial future. To RSVP call 201-1401 or visit retirementcenter.us June 20: Friday Night Flicks. Veterans Park. Film starts at dusk. Monsters University. June 21-22: Art in the Gardens. 9-5 p.m. Aldridge Gardens. This is your chance to stroll through the gardens and see the works of some of the best artists in the country and to also shop. More than 50 artisans will compete for category and best of show awards in this juried open-air show that only features Alabama artists. There will be painting,

mixed media, jewelry, woodworking and more. June 21: Superheroes 5K & Fun Run. 8-12 p.m. Veterans Park. Supports Owens House Child Advocacy Center. June 24: Horizons Dinner. 6 p.m. Hoover Senior Center. June 27: Friday Night Flicks. Veterans Park. Film starts at dusk. Free Birds. June 29: Food Pantry. 3-4:30 p.m. Hoover Church of Christ. For more information, please call 822-5610 or visit hooverchurchofchrist.org

Hoover Library Events For more, visit hooverlibrary.org or call 444-7800 Children and teen programs Mondays: Summer Storytime. 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Ages 4 and under. June 3-5: Doktor Kaboom. Original interactive science comedy show for audiences of all ages. Creatively blending theatre arts with the wonders of scientific exploration.

Parsons brings Goldilocks and the Three Bears to life with his famous marionette puppets.

Compete against your friends in these fun Lego challenges. Grades 4-6.

June 12: Lego Amazing Race. 4 & 6:30 p.m. Complete Lego challenges at pit stop to reach you final destination. Grades 1-3.

June 23: Glass Magnets. 6:30 p.m. Create fun and personalized marble magnets to take home. You can’t make just one! Supplies provided. Registration begins June 9. Grades 7-12

June 14: Minion Mania. 10:30 a.m. Join every criminal mastermind’s favorite henchman for a program filled with Minion Mania. All ages.

June 6: Battle of the Teen Bands. 6 p.m. Enjoy the tunes of some local bands as they compete for prizes in our Eleventh Annual Battle of the Bands.

June 16: Survivalist Scavenger Hunt. 6:30 p.m. Survive like Katniss and all the other postapocalyptic heroes of fiction in our fast-paced endof-world scavenger hunt. Registration begins June 2. Grades 7-12

June 9: Paint With All the Things. 6:30 p.m. Have you ever painted with a marshmallow or feather? Paint your own masterpiece with random objects. Supplies provided. Grades 7-12.

June 17-19: David Engel. Pirate School! is a swashbuckling variety show with physical comedy and a mischievous blend of improvisational clown comedy and audience participation.

June 10-12: Walkabout Puppets. Bob

June 19: Lego Amazing Race. 6:30 p.m.

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June 24-26: Billy Jonas. Funky folk music with original “voice and percussion” based songs combined with a generous dose of audience participation. June 26: Ms. Frizzle’s Fizz, Boom, Zap & Wow! 4 & 6:30 p.m. Science Lab Demonstration Registration begins June 5. Grades 1-3. June 30: Video Game Tournment. Grades 7-9, 3:30 p.m. Grades 10-12, 6:30 p.m. Challenge your friends to Super Smash Bros. on the Wii. Free snacks. Registration begins June 16.

Adult programs All month: Adult Summer Reading. “Literary Elements” Read or listen to books to register for great prizes donated by the Friends of the Library. Pick up a reading log in the Fiction or Nonfiction Departments. June 1: Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: France 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Coffee-ol-ogy Café explores France’s culture and native foods. Call 444-7821. June 2: Free Career Training Opportunities. 10:30 a.m. Adult Programming Room. The Construction Education Foundation of Alabama. Learn a trade and build your future in commercial construction. June 5: First Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton.

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Hoover Sun

B14 • June 2014

Community Calendar Moonlight on the Mountain moonlightonthmtn.com

Hoover Library Events (Continued) June 8: Wilder Adkins. 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Singer-songwriter with courtly, but witty lyrics and dexterous guitar playing

June 5: Craig Carothers and Don Henry. $15.

June 9: Helping Hands. 3-8:30 p.m. Adult Programming Room. Join us in making newspaper rolls for a local humane society. Teens and adults.

June 6: Amy Speace and Tim Easton with special guest Lara Herscovitch. $15.

June 9: Free documentary screening. 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. Oceans. This breathtaking Disney nature film chronicles the mysteries of life beneath the sea.

June 7: Nature Boy Explorer and Rupert Wates.

June 9: Read Your Own Adventure Book Group. 7 – 8 p.m. Plaza Reading Room. Share your favorite romance fiction book. Call 444-7820.

June 8: Writer’s Round: Nate Currin, Hannah Miller, and Molly Parden. June 9: Open Mic Night. June 12: Derik Hultquist. June 13: Rick Carter and Erin Mitchell. June 14: Webb Wilder. $15.

All shows are at 7:30 p.m. and cost $12 unless otherwise noted. Open Mic Night is $5.

June 10: Daytime Nonfiction Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Adult Programming Room. To End All Wars by Adam Hochschild. Call 444-7840. June 12: Second Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. The Son by Philipp Meyer. June 12: Digging Up Antebellum Alabama. 2 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Jim Phillips presents artifacts and stories of early Alabama history. June 14: World Wide Knit in Public Day. Show and share your favorite handmade item! Learn to knit and earn prizes. June 15: Forget Vacations: Set Up a Life that You Don’t Need to Escape From. 2:30 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Room.s Learn how to get control of your time, your money and your life.

City & Chamber Events

June 17,19: Glue Gun Gang: Firecracker Flip-Flops. 6:30 p.m. Adult Programming Room. Bring in a pair of inexpensive flip-flops and embellish them for the Fourth of July. Adults only.

June 2: City Council. 6 p.m. Council chambers.

June 18: No Jacket Required Nonfiction Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Adult Programming Room. This month’s genre: Adventure.

June 9: Planning and Zoning Commission. 5:30 p.m. Council chambers.

June 19: Herb Trotmand Band. 6:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Five-piece bluegrass group features tight vocal harmonies and clever instrumental arrangements. June 21: Frugalistics: Monthly Coupon Swap. 11 a.m. Adult Programming Room. Bring coupons you don’t need and swap for ones you do. June 23: Monday @ the Movies. 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. June 23: Helping Hands. 3-8:30 p.m. Adult Programming Room. Join us in making newspaper rolls for a local humane society. Teens and adults.

June 5: Economic Development Committee meeting. 8:30 a.m. Chamber office. Visitors welcome.

June 12: City Council. 6 p.m. Council chambers. June 12: Coffee & Contacts. 7:30-9 a.m. Costco, 3650 Galleria Circle. Call 9090-1039 for information or directions or go to costco.com. June 10: Ribbon Cutting. 11 a.m. The Abbey at Riverchase Apartment Homes, 3708 Lodge Drive. Contact Teresa Kines at 987-0270 or go to abbeyriverchase.com. June 18: Ambassador Meeting 4:30 p.m. Chamber office. Visitors welcome.

June 26: Nightime Nonfiction Book Group. 7 p.m. Allen Board Room. The Lost City of Z by David Grann.

June 19: Hoover Chamber Luncheon. 11:15 a.m. Hoover Country Club. Networking, noon luncheon. Make reservations by March 17. Those who make reservations and do not attend will be invoiced, unless canceled prior to the event. $20 or $22 without reservations. Contact Lisa Dunbar 988-5672 or lisa@ hooverchamber.org.

June 28: Write Club. 10:30 am. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Share your literary works and network with other amateur writers. Call 444-7820.

June 24: Minority Business Committee meeting. Noon. Chamber office. Bring your own lunch if you like. Visitors welcome. Contact Reginald Jeter at rlj@hsy.com. June 26: Business after-hours. 5:30 to 7 p.m. Business after hours at Holiday Inn-Hoover, 2901 John Hawkins Parkway. Contact Meredith Hooper at 682-2901 or visit holidayinn.com/bham-hoover.

Artists on the Bluff Drawing and Painting – Rollina Oglesbay. Small class size and all skill levels welcome. Drawing Class or Charcoal, Pastel, Oil and Acrylic with Model or Photo. Contact Rollina at rollinaoglesbay@gmail.com or 733-8939 for registration and supply list. $120 (4 sessions) + supplies. Mixed Media Classes – Rik Lazenby. Classes are available monthly on Tuesday mornings. 9 a.m. to noon or Tues. evening 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. $120 for 4 session + student provides supplies. Contact Rik at riklazenby@charter.net or

281-5273 to register.

JayneMorgan.com or call 902-5226.

Kiln Formed Glass – Fusing & Slumping – Deborah Ballog. All glass, kiln firings and instruction are included in class fees. Contact Deborah at deborah@studio-three. net or 999-3194.

Photography – Blue Moon Studios. Contact BlueMoonStudios.net or 995-3791 or check Facebook for class schedule.

Calligraphy – Deb Warnat. Beginning Copperplate Class. Online Class. Visit debwarnat. com or call 243-0576 for class schedule.

Woodworking – David Traylor. Woodworking taught by David Traylor. Offering workshops in furniture making. All skill levels welcome. Visit woodshopstudio.com or call 5314751.

Acrylic Painting – Jayne Morgan. Painting classes for children and adults. Visit

Trumeau Mirror Workshop – David Traylor and Rik Lazenby. David Traylor

and Rik Lazenby will offer a five-day workshop where students will build and finish a Trumeau Mirror with distressing. Cost is $895 with all supplies furnished. Contact Rik Lazenby at 2815273 or riklazenby@charter.net to register. Zentangle – Darla Williamson. Fun and relaxing class using patterns to create pen and ink drawings. Check website for class times and to register. Tangledstones.com or 305-2082.

Area Events June 1: Vulcan’s 110th Birthday Bash. Noon-4 p.m. Vulcan Park and Museum, 1701 Valley View Drive. An outdoor celebration with activities for the whole family. $5 for ages 5+, free for Vulcan members and ages 4 and under. Call 933-1409. June 4-7: Miss Alabama Pageant. 7:30 p.m. each night. Leslie Wright Fine Arts Center, Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive. The pageant will include talent, evening wear and swimwear competitions, and winners will receive college scholarships. Call 726-4069 for ticket information. June 5-7: Steel City Jazz Festival. Linn Park, 710 20th Street N. The festival will include more than 25 smooth jazz artists from across the country. $35 Jazz Soiree Kickoff Party, $50 2-Day Pass Early Bird (limited supply), $80 2-Day Pass, $120 2-Day VIP Pass, $50 Daily Pass, $2,500 2-Day VIP Reserved Table for 10. Call 533-9745. . 7-11 June 7: Juneteenth. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, 520 16th Street N. An annual family event with music, vendors, contests, activities and free entrance to the institute. Free. Call 328-9696 ext. 229.

the Steep Canyon Rangers, featuring Edie Brickell. Proceeds benefit the education programs of the Alys Stephens Center. Tickets $85-$125. Call 9346196.

June 7: Birmingham’s Big Ice Cream Festival. Noon-3 p.m. Avondale Brewing Company, 201 41st Street S. This Animal League of Birmingham fundraiser will feature ice cream sculpting and eating contests and build-your-own sundaes. $15 general admission, free for children under 4. Visit theanimalleagueofbirmingham.com.

June 14: Caribbean Festival. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Linn Park, 710 20th Street N. Enjoy music, food, vendors and dancing in the street. Free. Call 383-1726.

June 21: Warblers Club 85th Anniversary Show. 7 p.m. Mountain Brook High School Fine Arts Center. The Warblers Club, a men’s chorus, will present its 85th anniversary show entitled “Our 3rd Final Show.” Three On A String will give a guest performance. Call 5916080 or visit warblersclub.org. June 8: Viva Health Starlight Gala. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Avenue S. Live music from Steve Martin and

June 15: UAB Gospel Choir in Concert. 7 p.m. Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Ave S. The choir will present a Father’s Day concert. General admission: $7, UAB students, faculty and staff: $6, Groups of 20+: $6 each. Call 975-2787. June 19: 3rd Annual Chefs for the Cure. 5:30-8 p.m. The Club of Birmingham, 1 Robert S. Smith Dr. Taste gourmet cuisine and bid on silent auction items to raise funds for breast cancer research. $100 per person, $175 for two people. Call 263-1700.

June 21: YMCA Race to the Courthouse. 9 a.m. YMCA of Birmingham, 2400 7th Avenue N. Take a scenic downtown run and enjoy a health fair, music and food. Proceeds benefit the YMCA financial aid program. $25 through May 31, $30 through June 20, $35 day of the race, law firm team of three, $75. Call 3244563. June 27: Relax by the Tracks. 5-7 p.m. Railroad Park, 1600 1st Ave S. Enjoy music in the park, buy food from George’s Boxcar Cafe, then catch a Barons game before you leave. Free. Call 521-9933. June 28: Birmingham Heart Walk. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Uptown Entertainment District, 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Learn how to improve your heart health and prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke. Free, but donations encouraged. Call 510-1500.

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June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ B15

B16 â&#x20AC;˘ June 2014

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