Sun Neighborly news & entertainment for Hoover
Countdown to camp
Volume 3 | Issue 6 | March 2015
YOU’RE THINKING SPRING CLEAN. We think that AT EVERY CLEAN.
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Referred for a reason.
Shopping shake-up
Inside, find the Hoover Sun’s guide to the best summer camps for kids. From cooking to sports to outdoor adventures, we break down the basics of area programs.
See page B2
BEST OF HOOVER See page A20
Signing Day recap
New retail options coming to Riverchase Galleria By SYDNEY CROMWELL
More than 40 Hoover athletes signed with colleges and universities on Signing Day in February. Read more inside this issue.
Between the Galleria and all its neighboring shopping centers, the Riverchase area is the center of Hoover’s retail industry. Shoppers should expect some brand-new options in the coming months as new retailers begin to put up their signs and open their doors. Riverchase Galleria The Galleria’s new openings actually begin
While several stores have closed their doors, Galleria shoppers can expect new businesses to fill the vacant slots in the coming months. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
with its closings. Wet Seal and Body Central closed in early January due to national bankruptcies. The Delia’s and Radio Shack locations have announced future closings for the same reason, and Banana Republic, White House Black Market and Sbarro Pizza have shut their doors as well. Galleria Marketing Manager Angela Jacks, however, said these shops won’t be empty for long. “You hate seeing stores close, but there’s
high demand for our retail space,” Jacks said. “With the closing comes the opportunity to bring in new retailers.” Some of the new retailers have already been announced. Molly Green, a boutique already within the mall, will be relocating to the White House Black Market space. A Villa Pizza will replace the Sbarro location, and the former Bakers Shoes is being renovated for Jolie Grace
See SHOPPING | page A23
See page B17
INSIDE City .........................A5 Business ..............A10 Community .........A14
School House ....B10 Sports ...................B16 Calendar ..............B21
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Education 2.0 Hoover City Schools Foundation brings unique programs to local classrooms By KATIE TURPEN A fourth-grade student presses his hand on a green apple hooked up to a laptop with an alligator clip. Music begins to play on the screen. A few minutes later, he and a fellow classmate are using the same apples as controllers for a video game called Minecraft. These Trace Crossings Elementary students are using a device called “MaKey MaKey,” which fourth-grade
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teacher Dana Joyner found through research. The students also played music on the computer using play dough and graphite. The children were encouraged to document their work through Twitter, which allowed them to learn grammar and social media skills as well. This unique project was made possible by the grant writing of Joyner and Assistant Principal Amanda Stone. The
See EDUCATION | page A22
Trace Crossings Elementary School students participate in a variety of innovative projects made possible by grants from the Hoover City Schools Foundation. Photo by Katie Turpen.
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A2 • March 2015
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March 2015 • A3
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A4 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
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Trace Crossings Elementary students enjoy exploring and building news things once a month on Club Day. Photo by Katie Turpen.
Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden It is with sweet relief that March 8 means I’ll likely I greet the month of March. be too body clock rocked I’ve always found the first to fully appreciate the two months of the year excrufirst day of spring when it arrives on the 20th, at least ciatingly boring and, accordingly, slow to pass. Shout out it’ll be here. Along with my sudden urge to weed and here to a certain “sunny” kindergarten class that allowed mulch our home’s exterior, me to teach Junior Achieveand to purge as much intement to them last month. rior “stuff” as my family Keeping the company of a will allow. classroom of inquisitive five Stuff for stuff’s sake is Walden year olds while breaking suffocating. The older I down the concepts of financial literacy, become, the more strongly I feel that the entrepreneurism and work readiness “things” in our home ought to be there for made for an amusing February indeed. a useful purpose. For me, it’s a beautiful Even so, I’m beyond ready to march sight indeed to see a charitable donation into this month of rapid change. truck on our street, taking underutilized, Bring it all on – the good (daffodil awesome things and providing the items blooms, garage sales), the bad (erratic to those who actually need them. temperatures, anyone?) and yes, the ugly No sooner will have I purged vast (bathing suit shopping, insert tears and amounts of distracting clutter from our gnashing of teeth here). homestead than it will be time to dive Even though “springing forward” on deep into Holy Week. Without the fanfare
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(or stress) of Advent, Lent is far and away the liturgical season when I grow the most on my faith journey. No matter how tired some may find the metaphorical references between the spring season and personal renewal, that message still resonates powerfully for me. It’s embodied perfectly in one of my favorite hymns (written by C. Michael Hawn): Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me. Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me. Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me. A most beautiful, hopeful time of year is upon us. As we march into this loveliest of seasons, may you find your spirit refreshed and renewed.
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hooversun.com
March 2015 • A5
City Mayor’s Minute By Gary Ivey
It is an honor to be your Humane Society will be mayor and to live in a great city hosting PAWS in the Garthat I am happy to call home. dens for our four legged We’ve had a very cold winter friends and their families. but hopefully warmer weather is This event will be held here and we have many exciting on March 21 from 9 a.m. events on the horizon for you. – 5 p.m. and admission is Many people like to do spring $10 per dog. This will be cleaning so it’s a great time to a really fun event that you clean out your garage. Our and your pet don’t want to annual Household Hazardous miss. For additional details Waste Day will be held at the visit aldridgegardens.com or Hoover Met on Saturday, April call 682-8019 to speak with Gary Ivey someone on their staff. 25 from 8 a.m. -noon. This event is for Hoover residents only so We have many great please have your driver’s license or proof of events planned for 2015 so be sure to visit our residency with you. We will be collecting website for a complete list at hooveralabama. paint, prescription medications, electronics, gov or call 444-7500. fertilizers, pesticides, batteries as well as propWe want to exceed your expectations in erly disposing flags. Please visit our website every way with the quality of services we for a complete list of items. offer. Please contact our office if we can be of We are excited to be the home of the Ala- assistance to you. bama Baseball team in 2015 while they renovate their stadium. Opening day was Feb. 13 Sincerely, and they will play through May 16. The City of Hoover will then host the SEC Baseball tournament at the Hoover Met May 19 – 24 so please be sure and save those dates. Gary Ivey Aldridge Gardens along with the Shelby Mayor
Hoover ranks in top ten places to live Movoto Real Estate recently released their 2015 list of the safest places to live in Alabama. The listings are based on the recently updated 2013 FBI Uniform Crime Report. Hoover ranked 10th in the state, one below last year’s rank of ninth in the state. According
to Movoto’s article, the rank fell due to a slight increase in criminal activity. Two murders were reported out of Hoover’s population of 84,000. For more information on Movoto’s list, visit movoto.com/blog/top-ten/ safest-places-in-alabama-2013/.
Car break-ins not out of the norm, police say By SYDNEY CROMWELL The number of recent car break-ins may seem high to residents, but Captain Gregg Rector of the Hoover Police said the numbers are not out of the ordinary. From Nov. 1 to Jan. 22, Rector said there were 115 reported vehicle break-ins. Like residents, he initially thought the thefts were increasing. After looking at the crime reports for 2013 and 2014, however, Rector realized that the break-ins are happening at roughly the same pace. In 2013, there were a total of 530 break-ins, averaging 44 per month. In 2014, there were 443 vehicle break-ins, or about 37 per month. The November-January crime rate, Rector said, averaged out to around 41 breakins per month. Vestavia Hills experienced 22 break-ins, Homewood experienced 36 and Mountain Brook experienced 20 during the same time frame. Vestavia and Mountain Brook police both said their numbers are not higher than normal, but Homewood is experiencing a surge. There has been resident speculation that the break-ins are associated with a local gang, Goons Taking Over (GTO). Rector said the police are aware of GTO’s existence and its members’ tendency to break into unlocked vehicles to steal items or the cars themselves. However, the police have no evidence connecting GTO to these recent break-ins. “GTO’s are probably best described as loosely organized street criminals who commit property crimes and prey on individuals whose
property is not secured,” Rector said. “Residents can greatly reduce their chances of being the victim of any property criminal by simply locking their car doors and never leaving valuables in plain view.” Bluff Park experienced a slightly higher concentration of these crimes, though they were also reported in the Riverchase, Deer Valley and Lorna Road areas. Rector said that since Dec. 1, the police department has made 10 arrests of suspects they believe are responsible for the majority of the break-ins. Of those arrested, five were connected to Bluff Park break-ins, two to Deer Valley, one to Lorna Road and two to Riverchase. Three arrests were made in connection with an attempted car theft on Cottage Lane that resulted in shots being fired between the homeowner and burglar. Those suspects went on to steal a Mountain Brook man’s vehicle from West Jackson Boulevard. “Car burglaries are typically not an easily solvable crime but we’ve really had a lot of success recently,” Rector said. He attributed these arrests to residents noticing suspicious activity and alerting the police. Several suspects were found with stolen items in their possession. “These arrests were perfect examples of citizens getting involved, recognizing suspicious activity and helping the police officers solve crimes. These arrests were possible because of community involvement,” Rector said. To report suspicious activity, contact the Hoover Police at 822-5300.
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A6 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Hoover council honors Kiwanis Club, discusses proposed gas station
The Hoover City Council proclaimed Feb. 16 as Kiwanis International Day at a February meeting. Photo by Katie Turpen.
By KATIE TURPEN During a February meeting, the Hoover City Council proclaimed Monday, Feb. 16 as Kiwanis International Day. Kiwanis International is a global organization of members dedicated to serving the world’s children. Kiwanis and its family of clubs annually raise more than $100 million for communities. Members attend regular meetings, experience
fellowship, raise funds for various causes and participate in service projects. Also during the meeting, the City Council gave conditional use approval for a proposed gas station to be located on the property of the existing Walmart at 5335 U.S. 280. In other news, the council: }} Reappointed Roger Varner to the Personnel Review Board
}} Held a public hearing to consider the request of Ryan A. Hallmark, Hallmark Holdings, LLC d/b/a Rock-N-Roll Sushi for conditional use approval for the sale of 020-Restaurant Retail Liquor at Rock-N-Roll Sushi located at 4441 Creekside Avenue, Suite 133. }} Held a public hearing to consider the request of Fred Gustin, Slice of the Pie, LLC for Conditional Use approval for the sale of 040Retail Beer at Pie Five Pizza Co. located at
4741 Chace Circle, Suite 113. }} Held a public hearing to consider the request of Pastor Chris Peters, Cross Creek Church,for conditional use approval to construct their new church at 5225 Ross Bridge Parkway. This property is owned by Mr. Charles Diggs and Deer Valley Partners, LLC. The property is zoned C-2 (Community Business District) and C-P Preferred Commercial Office District. PZ Case #C-0115-02 Motion to approve.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • A7
Hoover legislator to introduce bill mandating restoration of UAB football
Students, officers honored at leadership breakfast
By KATIE TURPEN State Rep. Jack Williams of House District 47, which covers the cities of Vestavia Hills and Hoover, has plans to introduce a bill in Montgomery that would restore UAB football. Williams believes the bill would have a positive impact on Hoover and Vestavia HIlls. He said he knows of multiple students from these areas who have gone on to play football at UAB, such as Vestavia Hills High School graduate Dan Burks, who even went on to the NFL. “The UAB roster is littered with our kids from our over-the-mountain communities,” Williams said. “This has a direct impact on them.” Furthermore, Williams said UAB’s growing enrollment plays a large role in the property value of surrounding real estate. He believes the removal of the football program would hinder economic development in the midtown area. “Reestablishing the program would be a very positive thing,” Williams said. “We have the opportunity to do some healthy things for our community.” Williams said legislative intervention in football has happened before, citing a resolution passed in 1948 asking the University of Alabama and Auburn University to resume playing each other in football after a feud ended the series. “Heritage in our state is richer because they play each other,” he said. Williams also plans to introduce two
Third grader Abby Gobbels receives a first-place award for her poem. Photo by Madison Miller.
By MADISON MILLER
State Rep. Jack Williams
bills concerning the University of Alabama Board of Trustees. One bill would mandate annual training in Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) standards and compliance for any public university or college board member and would create a mechanism that would remove anyone from the board who does not follow the appropriate guidelines. The second bill would add members to the board. “The board is very Tuscaloosa-centric right now,” Williams said. “We need to put enough voices on the board so that when issues are raised, there is fair representation.”
Hoover students celebrated city police officers and firefighters at the annual City Leaders Breakfast at Discovery United Methodist Church on Jan. 29. The program was organized by Deanna Bamman and the Hoover Parent Teacher Council. City officials included Interim Superintendent Dr. Jim Reese, councilman John Lyda and school board member Craig Kelley. “I can’t tell you how impressed I am with the schools and students and what they are doing,” Reese said. Several elementary school students were presented with awards for poems, essays and art that focused on firefighters and school resource officers. Third grade poetry contest winners: }} First place: Abby Gobbels, Gwin Elementary
}} Second place: Anna Kizzire, South Shades Crest Elementary }} Third place: Emily Blakemore, Deer Valley Elementary Fifth grade essay contest winners: }} First place: Mary Beth Storm, Riverchase Elementary }} Second place: Allie Ford, Green Valley Elementary }} Third place: Hugo Parrot, Rocky Ridge Elementary }} Fire Prevention Art Contest Winner: Bella Farrow, Bluff Park Elementary The Hoover High School Chamber Choir performed “The Star Spangled Banner”, “Somewhere over the Rainbow” and “Reach Out and Touch.” For more information, visit hoovercityschools.net.
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A8 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
AASB presents stakeholder input to school board members By JESSA PEASE After holding a series of stakeholder meetings in Hoover, the Alabama Association of School Boards presented its community input report on the superintendent search to the board of education Feb. 10. Dr. Kendy Behrands, the primary finder consultant assigned to Hoover City Schools, was at the called board meeting to share the results of the community survey. About 80 people attended those stakeholder meetings Feb. 3. From the input meetings on Feb. 3, AASB was able to determine many skills and traits that were important. They are looking for a person who demonstrates integrity, is approachable and a good listener, makes informed decisions while focusing on what is best for students and is a progressive thinker. Other traits listed were someone who communicates effectively and efficiently with all stakeholders, embraces diversity, sets high expectations, studies the district’s organizational charts, fairly allocates resources and plans for growth accordingly. Stakeholders expressed that the superintendent would need to be a proven district leader who understands education thoroughly and as well as the business side of education. Rezoning, busing, unitary status and the cleaning services issues were ranked the most imminent challenges along with achievement gaps and funding. AASB also worked with NewSouth research to conduct an online survey to allow community members, parents and administrators to share the skills, experience and personal traits they felt the new superintendent should have. About 927 surveys were completed either online or by the telephone.
Dr. Kendy Behrands, the primary finder consultant assigned to Hoover City Schools, attended the called board meeting to share the results of a community survey. Photo by Jessa Pease.
In the open-ended section, integrity and honesty were the top ranked attributes while the aided section had integrity ranked No. 2 only to student-focused. The third ranked attribute presented was a superintendent who is experienced. In the expertise section, student safety was ranked the top concern among stakeholders. Challenging students for academic success, listening to constituents and managing the school system budgets were also listed as the critical areas of expertise. Behrands noted that past experience is critical, and more than half of the stakeholders said that the new superintendent needed to have experience as a classroom teacher. Community members
also wanted the superintendent to have served as a principal and an executive leader. Finally, Behrands reported on the stated needs of the community, which revolved around maintaining trust, improving academic achievement and finances. From the board The Hoover Board of Education had to determine if the superintendent candidate will need to live in Hoover, if their children will need to attend Hoover City Schools, the salary range of the candidate and the qualifications they are looking for. Board members unanimously determined that
the new superintendent would need to live in the school district just as all the board members are required to do the same. Their child or children would be expected to attend Hoover City Schools, but the board recognized extenuating circumstances could prevent them from doing so. Board member Earl Cooper suggested a base salary of $185,000 with the opportunity for the candidate to gain higher incentives after performing well. Behrands suggested listing the word “negotiable” with the salary in order to attract a greater number of candidates. “I think we are truly determined to get the best candidate that we can possibly get,” board president Donna Frazier said, stating that the students, teachers and administrators deserved it. Ultimately, the board decided to post a minimum salary of $185,000, stressing that it is negotiable based on performance. Behrands said this will typically be a three-year contract. Board member Craig Kelley started the discussion of the qualities of the superintendent. He said this person must understand the challenges facing Hoover City Schools and be ready to lead the district. Cooper added that leadership is the key component of the search, but they also need to have a servant’s heart. Board member Derrick Murphy said he wanted someone who is passionate, even to the point of putting his job on the line for the needs of the students. This would mean someone who is willing to have courage and be bold. Frazier also asked for Louise White with Hoover City Schools to voice her opinion as she spent the most time with former superintendent Andy Craig. “One word that really says it all, which this man does that I have witnessed, is communicate,” White said.
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hooversun.com
March 2015 • A9
Board of education reports on rezoning status, exchanges deed for road project By JESSA PEASE The board of education’s attorney, Donald Sweeney, gave a report on the rezoning issue and Hoover City Schools’ unitary status at the board meeting Feb. 9. Although Hoover City Schools never operated as a segregated school district, the NAACP and the Justice Department requires all current and future school districts to achieve unitary status. Before any schools can be rezoned within Hoover City Schools, the must investigate the racial composition of the student body, faculty and staff. Along with these items, the transportation of students, the condition and opportunities of the schools and the extracurricular activities must also be analyzed. Sweeney reported that the NAACP has reviewed nine of the schools within the city of Hoover, and that an expert will review all the data. Once the information has been reviewed, the NAACP can alert the board of education on any changes that need to be implemented. According to the information reported to the Department of Justice, Hoover City Schools declared no plans to curtail transportation for the 2015-2016 school year. Student transportation will be provided with no cost to the students. A status conference has been scheduled for Feb. 20 to determine what additional information would be needed for Hoover City Schools to obtain unitary status. “While this process is ongoing, no
is meant to improve Patton Chapel Road, and those improvements will affect Gwin and Simmons elementary schools. To make this project happen, the school board will be receiving easements and rights of way in order to improve the road system. A traffic engineer reviewed all of the plans that have been developed and submitted to ALDOT. Board member Stephen Presley praised the project. “I’d like to say…please tell everyone at city hall thank you,” he said. “As a Bluff Park resident, and one that rides up and down that road, I’m excited about that change. I’m glad that it’s going to work out better for our schools as well.”
Louise White of Hoover City Schools and Board of Education President Donna Frazier converse at a February meeting. Photo by Jessa Pease.
changes in the current student attendance zones will take place,” Sweeney said. “For planning purposes, it is my opinion, that student attendance zones for Hoover schools will not be changed for the 2015-2016 years. I want to emphasize that the Justice Department and the NAACP have worked cooperatively with us in every respect.” Many Trace Crossings teachers and administrators were present to voice their concern with the rezoning issue.
They claimed that Trace Crossings has the most to lose by not rezoning as the school is at the lowest capacity it has been in a long time. Furthermore, one teacher asked the board for help in reversing the negative opinions that have been directed toward Trace Crossings. She stated that everyday, she and students at the school feel the need to defend their reasons for being at Trace Crossings as though it were not a good school. She asked that the
board further communicate with Trace Crossings administrators and to “think outside the box” in order to combat these views. Also at the meeting, the board authorized the exchange of properties between Hoover City Schools and the city of Hoover for the Patton Chapel Road Project, Phase III. Charlie Beavers, a lawyer with the Hoover Board of Education, Jefferson County and Hoover, discussed the details of the agreement. The project
The board also: }} Honored five students who were named United States Presidential Scholarship candidates. Three students were from Hoover High School, and two were from Spain Park High School. }} Approved a Public Safety Tower Release agreement between Hoover City Schools and the city of Hoover. }} Presented the 2012-2013 assessment and accountability report. The report looked back at the recent changes such as Alabama’s College and Career Ready Standards and Alabama’s 2020 plan. }} Proposed a grade weight change for AP and pre-AP courses at Spain Park and Hoover high schools.
A10 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Business Skull Girl Soaps finds new home in Bluff Park By KATIE TURPEN Kim Ford enjoys incorporating her fun personality into the products she sells. Now, Hoover residents are able to enjoy her products. This past fall her business, Skull Girl Soaps, found a new home in Bluff Park. Ford formerly had her own store in Helena and decided to move her line of bath products to Owls Hollow Farm Market. Walk in the door of the market and turn right past the produce to a sweet-smelling room of luxurious bath products. Skull Girl Soaps offers unique, all-natural soaps, scrubs, lotions, lip balms, shaving accessories, bath teas and more. Fun soap flavors include Cilantro Citrus, Orange Ginger, Oatmeal Honey, Bama Sweet Peach, Twisted Tea Tree, Viva La Juicy and Wicked Pink Lemonade. The soaps feature a fun girl design with a skull sitting a bubble bath. Ford says custom gift baskets are a great option and advises customers to give her a call ahead of time with what they would like. She also does personalized wedding favors and customized bridesmaid and groomsman gifts. Ford’s products aren’t just for adults. She has several lines of children’s soaps with fun toys in the middle such as tiny cars and dinosaurs. “Whether it is for a wedding, social
Kim Ford is the owner of Skull Girl Soaps, a unique line of natural bath products. She sells her products at Owls Hollow Farm Market in Bluff Park. Photos by Katie Turpen.
event or special occasion, we can create perfect, unique gifts for you,” Ford said. She uses natural ingredients, which is helpful for people with eczema, dermatitis and sensitive skin. She often gives her items as gifts for friends and family. “I think they really show off my personality,” she said.
Ford makes the soaps at home in batches and often enlists the help of her family. Each bar of soap takes four weeks to cure. All soaps are made with food-grade coconut oil, olive oil, palm kernel flakes, castor oil, essential oils/ fragrance oils and natural herbs. These are made in small batches, and then each bar is cut and packaged. In addition to the Bluff Park store,
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Ford sells her items in the Birmingham Museum of Art, Heart of Dixie Harley-Davidson, Spa Greystone and Riders Harley-Davidson. She enjoys her new home in Bluff Park and hopes to continue to serve the community with unique and fun bath products. For more, visit skullgirlsoaps.com.
Skull Girl Soaps 815 Shades Crest Road (Owls Hollow Market) 902-1555 skullgirlsoaps.com
hooversun.com
March 2015 • A11
St. Patty’s Day fare By ALECIA ROLLINS March is here, spring is around the corner, and Irish food and celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day abound. Typical St. Patrick’s Day dishes are most notably corned beef and cabbage and soda bread. I dug a little deeper into the history of St. Patrick’s Day and found it to be an American-born celebration. When Irish immigrants came to the United States, ingredients readily available and less expensive in Ireland were not so available in the States. Pork and potatoes became corned beef and cabbage. After this discovery, I searched for more traditional Irish fare and found this yummy and easy one-dish meal, cottage pie. Cottage pie is similar to shepherd’s pie but is made with ground beef instead of lamb or mutton. In fact, the recipes are primarily the same except for the type of meat used in preparation. So, enjoy this recipe and if you want to celebrate Irish-American style, dig in and enjoy some corned beef and cabbage, shamrock-shaped sugar cookies and green-colored foods. To contact Rollins, email chefdayna1@gmail.com.
RECIPE
Cottage Pie
2 pounds peeled potatoes, quartered
2 cups ground beef
6 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup butter, cubed plus 1 tablespoon for sauce
16 ounces beef stock
1 cup chopped white mushrooms
Salt and ground black pepper
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1 1/2 teaspoons bacon drippings
1 tablespoon allpurpose flour
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup grated cheddar cheese/or cheddar blend
1 cup chopped carrot 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Preheat oven to 375°F. Boil the potatoes until soft, drain, add milk and ½ cup butter, and mash. Season to taste and put aside. While potatoes are boiling, melt bacon drippings in a large, deep pan. Add the onion and carrot and cook for five minutes on medium heat. Add the garlic salt and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and 2 ounces of the beef stock to the onion and carrot
mixture and cook, stirring constantly until all the meat is browned. Add the remaining stock, dried parsley, Worcestershire sauce and mushrooms, and season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook for 15 minutes. Mash the flour into the remaining 1 Tbsp. butter, then add in small pieces to the ground beef sauce, stirring until all the flour has dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly. Cook over low heat as not to
break sauce. Place the meat sauce into an 8-inchsquare, approximately 3-inch-deep ceramic or glass oven-proof dish and top with the mashed potato, covering completely. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the potato and bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the surface is crisp and browned. Serve immediately.
MedCenter HOOVER
5RGENT #ARE s &AMILY -EDICINE
A12 • March 2015
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hooversun.com
March 2015 • A13
Now Open
New Ownership
mc2 realty, 501 Riverchase 1 Parkway East, Suite 200, is now open. The company is owned by broker Ann March and Realtor Tony Colbaugh. 208-9911, mc2re.com
Chabot Chiropractic, 2116 Rocky Ridge Road, has been bought by Dr. Rod Sones following the retirement of Dr. Jeanne Chabot. Dr. Sones is a native of Louisiana and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Parker University in Dallas, Texas. 822-2177, chabotchiropractic.com
Dr. Tracey Mercer, an optometrist, has opened an office at 2000 Southlake Park, Suite 100. Dr. Mercer previously practiced with Dr. Jill Meyer in Pelham for 14 years. 968-1160, drtraceymercer.com
2
Bay Leaf Authentic Indian Cuisine is now open at 5426 U.S. 280, Suite 14, in the space formerly occupied by Mughal Indian Cuisine. The restaurant is new and not affiliated with the previous tenant. 518-0208, facebook.com/ bayleafauthenticindiancuisine
3
Training, 5406 U.S. 280 4 MVP East, Suite D-106, will open March 16 at the Crossroads at Greystone shopping center at the intersection of Highways 119 and 280. The facility offers strength training and conditioning for a variety of ages. 538-2687, mvptraining.net
Coming Soon Magnum Properties is constructing an office building at 3041 Lorna Road, across from Hoover Tactical Firearms. The building will be available to lease to either one or two tenants. 879-5929
5
Mason Music, a studio offering lessons for students in guitar, piano, voice, violin and drums, is opening a third location in Bluff Park at 761 Shades Mountain Plaza. A free lesson will be offered to the first 100 people to sign up. masonmusicstudios.com
6
Coming Soon
7
Business news Expansion
to share?
Crowne Falls Apartments, 3900 Galleria Woods Drive, has been sold to Zaremba Management in Ohio. The apartment complex has been rebranded as The Falls of Hoover. 987-1877, rentthefalls.com
8
If you are in a brick and mortar business in Hoover and want to share your event with the community, let us know.
News and Accomplishments
Bare Naked Noodles, 3439 Lorna Lane, has announced that its specialty pastas and sauces will be available at Western Supermarket locations in the metro Birmingham area. 305-2715, barenakednoodles.net
9
Alabama Telco Credit Union has 10 changed its name to Avadian Credit Union. The name change is the culmination of a process to rebrand the credit union and reflect its growing and diversified client base. Avadian has branches at 420 Old Highway 280 in Greystone and 4720 Chace Circle, and its corporate headquarters is located at 1 Riverchase Parkway South. 985-2800, avadiancu.com Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center, 2100 Data Park Drive, is now closed on Fridays. 871-9661, alabamaallergy.com
11
Hirings and Promotions 12
Coming Soon
Sun
Expansion Email dan@hooversun.com
Cleveland Jacks as marketing manager. Jacks has more than 22 years of experience in the marketing and public relations fields. 985-3020, riverchasegalleria.com
Indian Springs Pediatric Dentistry, 6496 Quail Run Drive, celebrated its first anniversary in February. 739-7773, indianspringskidsdentistry.com
Anniversaries
Closings
If you are in a brick and mortar business in Hoover your Tulip, 180 Main Street, Suite Inverness office,and 109 want to share 16 The Pink 13 RealtySouth’s 212, celebrated the first anniversary of Inverness Plaza, has welcomed Nick event with the community, its Hoover location in February. Higdon as a new Realtor. let us know. 560-0355, thepinktu.com 991-6565, realtysouth.com
Sun
Pure Barre 280, 5426 U.S. 280 East, Suite 6, is celebrating its fourth anniversary this month. 991-5224, purebarre.com
14
The Riverchase Galleria, 2000 Riverchase Galleria, has hired Angela
15
Tidmore Flags, 1901B Hoover Court, has closed its retail store. The company is now an online-only store. 1-800-321-3524, tidmoreflags.com
17
Email dan@hooversun.com
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A14 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Community Hoover Arts Alliance donates baby grand piano to local school
Henze achieves Eagle Scout rank with Troop 69
Erik Henze. Photo courtesy of Diana Henze.
This past Christmas, the Hoover Arts Alliance was able to donate a baby grand piano to Brock’s Gap Intermediate School. BGIS Music Director Lisa Vines is pictured here with her students. Photo courtesy of Hoover Arts Alliance.
SHELBY HUMANE SOCIETY
Erik Henze, a member of Troop 69 at Mount Chapel United Methodist Church in Vestavia Hills and under the leadership of Angelo Della Manna, recently made the rank of Eagle Scout. He was honored for his accomplishment during his Eagle Court of Honor. Henze is the son of David and Diana Henze of Hoover. He joined Troop 69 in 2008 after earning his Arrow of Light Award in Cub Scout Pack 69. He has held various leadership positions with Troop 69 including senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader and quartermaster. While in scouting, he has attended National Youth Leadership Training and participated in two high-adventure Sea Base outings. He has earned the National Outdoors Leadership Award for Camping and 36 merit badges. For his Eagle Scout project, Henze, along with his fellow troop members and friends, reconstructed and added to the outdoor classroom for Rocky Ridge Elementary in Hoover. They re-enforced and repaired the damaged deck flooring, reconstructed the deck railings, added steps to the outdoor theatre seating and pressure-washed the concrete tables, benches and sidewalks around the outdoor classroom. Henze is a senior at Spain Park High School where he is a member of the National Honor Society and team captain of the boys’ varsity soccer team. He is also co-captain of the Briarwood Ambassador’s 97 Gold Region III soccer team.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • A15
Get to know
Joe Rives
Hoover’s newest City Council member
By KATIE TURPEN During the Feb. 2 meeting, Joe Rives was inducted as the newest Hoover City Council member. Rives fills the Phase 1 seat, which was vacated by Trey Lott on Jan. 20 after his recent move from Greystone to Alabaster. During the meeting, Councilman Jack Natter referred to Rives as a longtime friend. Rives expressed his gratitude for his new position and said he looks forward to serving the citizens of Hoover. “I feel honored to help make the city of Hoover a better place to live and work,” said Rives. “It is a true honor to be included here. These are just some truly great people.” The Hoover Sun recently caught up with Rives, who has lived in Hoover for more than 40 years, to discuss his background and goals as a councilman.
Q A
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. I am Joe Rives, age 73. My wife and I have been married 49 years. We have two daughters, one son, two sons-in-law, one daughter in-law, and nine grandchildren. We belong to Shades Valley Presbyterian Church where I am an active Elder and co-chair of the Mission Committee. I am an AARP Foundation volunteer income tax preparer for low and middle income families. I also work on a weekly basis building houses through Habitat for Humanity. I am an electrical engineering graduate of The University
During the Feb. 2 meeting, Joe Rives was inducted as the newest Hoover City Council member. Photo by Katie Turpen.
of Tennessee. I worked for Bellsouth Telecommunications for 34 years, a bank, and then a consulting company. I finally retired in 2003. I served on the Hoover Board of Zoning Adjustment since 2005 until I was asked to be on the Hoover Planning and Zoning Commission in October 2014.
Q A
A
How long have you lived in Hoover? We moved to our current house in Hoover in 1970 (more than 44
years ago) from Nashville.
Q
What is your favorite part about the Hoover community?
My favorite part of the Hoover community is the people who live here, my neighbors. I also like the convenience to everything, the outstanding city services and the low cost of living here. What are your goals for your time on the council?
Q
A
Right now my goals are to build on the strong foundation that is here and make Hoover even better. I would like to initiate some wholesome activity for the teens in Hoover that many would use. I feel very honored and humbled by the confidence my fellow councilmen had in me to appoint me to the City Council.
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A16 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
PAWS in the Garden returns to Aldridge Gardens
By KATIE TURPEN On Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Hoover residents are invited to treat their furry friends to a special event at Aldridge Gardens. This year, Hoover’s Woofstock and PAWS are combining to create one great day for you and your best friend. At Paws in the Gardens, guests and their leashed pets can
enjoy food, dog-friendly demonstrations and vendors and receive general pet advice. Additionally, family fun activities will be offered. The price is $10 per dog and all proceeds will go to the Shelby Humane Society and Aldridge Gardens. The city of Hoover and ABC 33/40 and its affiliates are partnering with Aldridge Gardens for the event. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com.
Hoover residents and their pets are invited to Paws in the Gardens on Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens. Photos courtesy of Aldridge Gardens.
Neighborhood News
hooversun.com
Central Hoover
March 2015 • A17
Send your text and photos for this section to madison@starnespublishing.com
Green Valley, Monte D’Oro, Rocky Ridge, The Preserve, Birchtree
West Hoover
South Shades Crest, Ross Bridge, Russet Woods, Lake Cyrus, Lake Crest, Russet Woods
Ross Bridge hosts first annual Pawty Gras
Leprechaun Leap to raise funds for Easter Seals By MADISON MILLER On March 21, The Preserve will host the first annual Leprechaun Leap benefitting Easter Seals of Birmingham. The event will include a 5K run or walk, a kid zone sponsored by Covenant Classical Schools with face painting, balloon animal artist, glitter tattoos, moonwalks, rock climbing wall and more. Though Easter Seals has helped organize a walk each year, this is the first year that the organization has stepped away from a national walk to create one locally. One hundred percent of the proceeds will stay local and directly benefit Easter Seals’ pediatric clinic in Pelham. “I think it is vital for our community to know that whether they come out and participate, volunteer, etc., that all the proceed directly benefit our local community and those with special needs,” Director of Development and Marketing Allison Nichols said.
Local dogs competed for best in show at the Pawty Gras Pet Parade. Photo by Madison Miller.
Cooper Jack Hutchings, a pediatric ambassador for Easter Seals of Birmingham. Photo courtesy of Allison Nichols.
Live music will be provided by local bands Rockstar and Rollin in the Hay. Local artists will have their work on display for an arts and crafts festival. Several food trucks and Frio Pops will be on hand for refreshments.
Registration for the 5K will be $30 and will include a long sleeve T-shirt. Post event festivities are free and open to the public. For more information, email Allison Nichols at anichols@ eastersealsbham.org.
By MADISON MILLER Renaissance Ross Bridge hosted its first annual Pawty Gras Pet Parade on Feb. 15. Pets and their owners paraded near the clubhouse while dressed in Mardi Gras costumes. Several guest judges voted for the winners of best dressed
human and best dressed dog. Hotel staff threw beads from the balcony of J.T.’s restaurant as the contestants paraded. Each participant paid a $10 entry fee, which benefitted the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. For more information, visit facebook.com/rossbridgeresort?fref=ts.
Neighborhood News
A18 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Send your text and photos for this section to madison@starnespublishing.com
South Hoover
East Hoover
Riverchase, Southlake, Trace Crossings
Greystone, Inverness, Heatherwood
HPD stepping up security at Chestnut Ridge Pkwy
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Heatherwood Garden Club participates in Flower Show
Behind the Chestnut Ridge neighborhood sits land owned by USS Real Estate. The land has caused problems for Chestnut Ridge and other Trace Crossings residents.
By MADISON MILLER Behind the Chestnut Ridge neighborhood sits land owned by USS Real Estate. The land will eventually be developed, but while it sits vacant, it has caused problems for Chestnut Ridge and other Trace Crossings residents. For several years, residents have complained of trespassers riding four-wheelers and dirt bikes on the undeveloped land. The vehicles not only present a noise issue, but also a safety hazard for both trespassers and residents. “It’s a liability,” Trace Crossings Homeowners Association President Greg Williams said. “It’s dangerous.” Williams and fellow residents have addressed their concerns at several city meetings and have
recently been able to hire an off-duty officer to patrol the area for trespassers. Though it has helped the issue, Williams expects trespassers to increase once the weather gets warmer. “It’s an ongoing issue and the police can only do so much,” Williams said. Trespassers who are caught at the scene will first receive a warning from the police department. If the trespassers return, police have full authorization to arrest the individual. Trespassers under 18 will be held by police until parents can pick them up. Williams hopes that these consequences will discourage trespassers from disturbing Chestnut Ridge and surrounding neighborhoods. For more information, visit mckaymanagement. com.
The Heatherwood Garden Club participated in the Flower Show at the Botanical Gardens in December. The theme was “Let it Snow.” Ann Davis won first place and the TriColor Award. Linda Joseph won second place and Sue Richards won third place. Pictured are Linda Joseph, Ann Davis and Sue Richards. Photo courtesy of Ann Davis.
Shades Mountain Shades Mountain, Bluff Park
Your neighborhood here Do you want stories from your neighborhood featured in the Hoover Sun’s community section? We want to include your news and photos. Submit your stories on
parties, fundraisers, yard sales, neighborhood organizations, lemonade stands, awards, safety concerns and more for consideration.
Email madison@starnespublishing.com with content.
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hooversun.com
March 2015 • A19
Q&A with
Jason Bailey Mandolin player coming to Moonlight on the Mountain this month By KATIE TURPEN Musician Jason Bailey will play a show at Moonlight on the Mountain on March 5. The cost of the show is $12. The Hoover Sun recently caught up with Bailey to learn more about his musical journey. Visit moonlightonthemtn.com or baileyjason.com for more.
Q A
Tell us a little bit about yourself. About 20 years ago, my life changed when I received a garagesale mandolin from my dad, which led to a bachelor’s degree in music from Maryville College, and a now fifteen year “gig” as a professional musician. I’m a composer, a teacher, a studio musician and a performer. Mandolin is my primary instrument but I also play mandocello, mandola, bouzouki, tenor banjo, tenor guitar, acoustic guitar and electric mandolin. For almost as long as I’ve been playing professionally, I have taught private mandolin lessons at Fretted Instruments in Homewood. Thank you Herb Trotman!
Although I am originally from Birmingham and have been based out of here for my whole career I decided, as of 2013, to relocate part-time to Nashville, Tennessee to further the pursuit of music. I usually split my weeks with half in each city.
Q A
Describe what type of music you write and perform. In general, my original compositions are primarily instrumental and incorporate a fusion of elements from jazz, bluegrass and Celtic. Some folks refer to this genre as “new-grass.” For performances, every gig and band is somewhat different so the demands are different. I’m fortunate to have the opportunities to play a wide variety of musical styles with a wide variety of talented musicians. In fact, at any particular time I often have close to ten band projects currently working. A typical week of music performance could include any combination of the following genres: jazz, Celtic, bluegrass, rock, folk, Americana or jam-band. These acts appear at places
ranging from bars and restaurants, to small listing rooms, to music festivals and even wedding ceremonies and receptions. Just about anywhere that would have music I probably have played.
Q A
Where does your inspiration come from? The inspiration to play music just comes from within me - an inner driving force. I can’t imagine a world without music. There have been occasions where a seemingly small passage of someone else’s composition incorporates melody or harmony in a way that resonates with me and I then feel compelled to approach an entire composition using similar techniques. In this vein, some of my compositions are efforts to be more versed in a particular genre. I find it inspiring trying to create pieces of my own focusing on nuances of genres.
Q A
What’s the greatest compliment you’ve ever received about your music? I don’t know, folks are always nice. I will say that the funniest
Photo courtesy of Jason Bailey.
compliment was someone who said, “Jason, I love your music so much! Every time I put on one of your CDs it makes me go to sleep.” I can’t help but to share this compliment. I sure hope they don’t listen in their car!
Q A
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians? Keep with it! Seek out every opportunity to play and
perform. Whether you are playing along with a CD or jamming with friends or doing a gig - there are skills that can only be developed from these different situations. Basically, follow the “Ten Thousand Hours Rule.” In order to get really good at something you just have to do it and keep doing it a whole bunch.
A20 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
BEST OF HOOVER 2015 Food and Drink Most Friendly Service Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Cajun Cleaver Chick-fil-A Jim ‘N Nick’s Tortuga’s Pizza Vecchia Pizzeria
Most Kid Friendly Restaurant Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Chick-fil-A Jim ‘N Nick’s The Boot Vecchia Pizzeria
Best New Restaurant Cedars Grille Chicken Salad Chick Fried Green Tomatoe’s Newk’s Vecchia Pizzeria Best Burger Baha Burger Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Five Guys Green Valley Drug Store Jim ‘N Nick’s Steak N Shake Tip Top Grill
Best Breakfast/Brunch Big Bad Breakfast IHOP The Egg and I Tip Top Grill Waffle House
Best Pizza Johnny Brusco’s Marco’s Pizza Salvatore’s Pizza Hut Tortuga’s Vecchia Pizzeria
Best Date Night Bonefish Grill Firebirds J. Alexander’s Jesse’s Steak Shula’s Vecchia Pizzeria
Best Coffee Coffeeology Cafe Krispy Kreme McDonald’s Neighborhood Brew Panera Bread Starbucks
Best Ladies’ Lunch Spot Ashley Mac’s Edgar’s Bakery Chicken Salad Chick Coffeeology Café The Boot Zoe’s Kitchen
Best Place for a Sweet Treat Coffeeology Cafe Edgar’s Bakery Gigi’s Cupcakes The Whole Scoop Yogurt Mountain
Best Casual Dining Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Green Valley Drugs Jim ‘N Nick’s The Boot Tip Top Grill Vecchia Pizzeria Best Asian Food Hunan Garden Mr. Chen’s New China Pacific Rim Sumo Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Taste of Thailand Yuki Best Italian Food Bellini’s Costa’s Salvatore’s Tortuga’s Vecchia Pizzeria Best Mediterranean Food Cedars Grille Costa’s Pita Café Taziki’s The Purple Onion Best Mexican Food El Gringo Habeñeros Iguana Grill La Brisa La Fiesta Pablo’s
Best Dessert Edgar’s Strawberry Cake Gigi’s Cupcakes Jim ‘N Nick’s Pies Vecchia Pizzeria Cannoli Zoe’s Chocolate Cake
Community
Best Outdoor Space Aldridge Gardens Hoover Met Moss Rock Preserve Star Lake Veterans Park Best Community Event Bluff Park Art Show Celebrate Hoover Day Freedom Fest Moss Rock Festival Preserve Jazz Festival SEC Baseball Tournament Southern Voices Taste of Hoover Whispers from the Past Best Neighborhood Bluff Park Green Valley Lake Crest Lake Cyrus Riverchase Ross Bridge Russet Woods Southpointe The Preserve Trace Crossings
Best Church Choir Hunter Street Baptist Church Prince of Peace Catholic Church Riverchase United Methodist Saint Mark United Methodist Best Teacher Krystal Pettit, Simmons Middle Walt Rogers, Spain Park High Betty Wilson, Deer Valley Elementary Scotty Wilson, Spain Park High Jane Bruce, Hoover High Best Place for Family Outing Aldridge Gardens Hoover Bucs Football Game Hoover Public Library Hoover Met Moss Rock Preserve Veterans Park
Health and Wellness Best Work Out Facility Fitness 4U 24/7 Hoover Fitness Hoover Rec Center Hoover YMCA Planet Fitness Pure Barre
Best Spa Aveda L.A. Bikini Massage Envy Renaissance Ross Bridge Best Dentist Barganier & LeCroy Dentistry Chace Lake Family Dentistry Dr. David Cowan, North Shelby Family Dentistry Kasey Davis Dentistry Dr. David Hazouri, Riverchase Family Dentistry Dr. Jennifer Morrissey-Patton, Hoover Family Dentistry Dr. Preston Reynolds Best Orthodontist Backus Orthodontics Birmingham Orthodontics PT Orthodontics Whitehead Orthodontics Best Pediatrician Dr. Toren Anderson, Greenvale Pediatrics Dr. John Cortopassi, Greenvale Pediatrics Dr. Brian Dudgeon, Greenvale Pediatrics Dr. Jeff Malone, South Trace Pediatrics Dr. Amy McCollum, Greenvale Pediatrics Dr. Andrew McCown, Southlake Pediatrics Dr. John Petelos, Greenvale Pediatrics
Best Family Practitioner Dr. Elwin Crawford, MedCenter Hoover Dr. Jody Gilstrap, Baptist Health Center Dr. Carrie Huner, Brookwood Primary Care Dr. James Marshall, UAB Medical West Dr. Vicky Moore, Brookwood Primary Care Best Pharmacy Costco CVS Green Valley Drugs Robert’s Discount Pharmacy Publix Best Chiropractor Dr. Gary Edwards Dr. Jerry Nesseler Dr. Trey Lott Best Orthopedist Dr. Michael Blum, Southlake Orthopaedics Dr. William Craig, Southlake Orthopaedics Dr. Jeffrey Davis, Andrews Sports Medicine Dr. Michael Ellerbusch, Southlake Orthopaedics Dr. Amanda Martin, Lemak Sports Medicine & Orthopedics Dr. Charlie Talbert, Southlake Orthopaedics
Businesses and Services Best New Business
MedCenter Hoover Mainstreet Monograms Northern Tool Orangetheory Fitness The Growing Tree
Best Place to Buy a Gift Green Valley Drugs Harper Lane Lou Lou’s Mainstreet Monograms Past & Presents Wrapsody Best Children’s Store Gymboree Kicks Shoes for Kids Sew Precious Toys R Us The Growing Tree Best Women’s Clothing Store Belk Lou Lou’s Pink Tulip Mainstreet Monograms The Urban Barn Von Maur Best Store for Men Alabama Outdoors Belk Cigars & More Jos A Bank Men’s Warehouse
Best Place to Buy Home Décor Hobby Lobby Home Goods Kirklands Wrapsody Best Customer Service Hendick Auto Mall Mainstreet Monograms Publix The Whole Scoop Von Maur Wrapsody Best Veterinarian Bluff Park Animal Clinic Galleria Animal Clinic Hope Animal Clinic Lake Crest Animal Clinic Patton Chapel Animal Clinic South Shades Crest Animal Clinic Best Mechanic Shop Car Care Estes Tire Hendrick Automotive Stop Start Best Salon Great Clips Ross Bridge Salon 150 Stone Salon The Look Best Golf Course Greystone Country Club Hoover Country Club Inverness Country Club Renaissance Ross Bridge Riverchase Country Club Best Grocery Store Costco Earth Fare Organic Harvest Publix Piggly Wiggly Best Real Estate Agent James Harwell, RealtySouth Susette Clark-Walker, RealtySouth Lynn Coffee, RealtySouth Kelli Gunnells, RealtySouth Becky Hicks, ReMAX Southern Homes Peter Northcott, LAH Realty Mechelle Wilder, ARC Realty Best Car Dealership- New Crest Cadillac Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Hoover Toyota Long Lewis Ford Tameron Honda Best Car Dealership- Used CarMax CRM Motors Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Long Lewis Ford Southtown Hoover
Vote online through March 8 at hooversun.com/best-of Results will run in the April issue.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • A21
For the 27,000 Lupus walk aims to raise money, awareness, education Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects about 27,000 people in Alabama. Photo courtesy of the Lupus Foundation of America.
By JESSA PEASE More than 1.5 million Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease called lupus. There is a lot of unfamiliarity related to lupus even though this disease is gaining more understanding around the nation as celebrities speak out about it. “The reason I think it is so hard to understand is because the symptoms are so common it’s hard to tell someone and [them] not think it’s allergies or a seasonal cold,” said Katelyn Slaughter, development coordinator at Lupus Foundation of America, Mid-South Chapter. “It’s actually
chronic, so it’s not just something that comes through the seasons or weather change.” As a chronic disease, its signs and symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often for many years. Lupus can affect the skin or joints, and some people have problems with their gastrointestinal system or vision. Slaughter said many people go through “lupus flares,” or a period of time such as a day, week or year when they suffer severe fatigue, anemia and muscle and joint swelling. The disease can affect anyone, but it is most commonly found in women of color during their reproductive years, about ages 18-54.
The Walk to End Lupus Now is the only nationally certified lupus fundraising charity walk, and there are walks all across the United States. The second-largest walk is the one held right here in Birmingham at Veterans Park. It draws between 800 and 900 people from all over the state. “It invites an opportunity for the 27,000 people suffering with lupus to all come together on one day to celebrate life and support one another as we raise money for research and education,” Slaughter said. This year’s walk will take place March 28, with registration starting at 8 a.m. and the 1-mile walk starting at 10 a.m. It’s a free event with no
registration fee, but it is a fundraising walk with door prizes, a photo booth, games for kids, face painting, a dance competition, T-shirt contest and other prizes. “The biggest importance is everyone coming together,” Slaughter said. “It’s kind of that new awareness. We have some people that return every year that we know their families, we know them by name and we know their story. Then we have people who come out as their first time, and they are so excited to be there to finally find a community where they can feel someone understands what they are going through.” For more information about lupus,
visit lupus.org. For more information about or to register for the Walk to End Lupus Now, visit kintera.org/faf/ home/default.asp?ievent=1126892.
Walk to End Lupus Now Veterans Park Saturday, March 28 8 a.m.-noon Free admission
A22 • March 2015 EDUCATION
CONTINUED from page A1 grant was given by the Hoover City Schools Foundation. “The students are learning about electricity, force and motion, while also learning reading, writing and grammar,” Joyner said. “It really elevates my job and makes teaching fun. The same goes for the students, they don’t want to leave.” During the 2014-15 school year, the Hoover City Schools Foundation gave out 15 teacher grants, affecting more than 40 different classrooms in
Hoover Sun the system. “Our grants are essential to the schools because they give teachers the opportunity to try innovative and sometimes revolutionary projects or programs with their students,” HCSF Executive Director Kara Walker said. “Without our funding, teachers may not be able to experiment or take a project to the next level without spending their own personal money on their classrooms.” The Hoover City Schools Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to support Hoover City Schools by funding innovative academic projects through grants and scholarships.
“Essentially, we want to help support those teachers and programs that are new and groundbreaking that might need extra funding,” Walker said. “We also find it extremely important to invest in the futures of students by supporting career preparedness in every facet, which is why we also provide two scholarships per year to students attending community college, junior college or vocational school.” The HCSF recently launched a student board program. Ten students were selected from each high school (Hoover and Spain Park) to serve on the board and will be helping to
promote the foundation, as well as support the schools and local businesses through community service. “They’ll bring a fresh, young perspective to our table about how we can best support Hoover City Schools,” said Walker. “These kids had to go through a rigorous essay and interview process, and the ones we selected are absolutely outstanding young folks.” HCSF is also hoping to a launch a new program in 2015 with the goal of connecting local businesses with high school academies. “Some academies are already successfully partnering with local businesses, but we want to help further
facilitate that relationship, and we think both parties will really benefit from having input from each other,” Walker said. “We hope to begin hosting regular breakfast events to bring these groups together for networking opportunities and speaking engagements.” Donations to HCSF can be mailed to Hoover City Schools Foundation c/o Kara Walker at 2810 Metropolitan Way, Hoover, Alabama, 35243. For more information, visit facebook. com/hoovercityschoolsfoundation.
Marine Discovery Lab
Robotics/engineering
Three years ago, Simmons Middle School seventh-grade science teacher Robert Abernathy was awarded a $2,000 grant, and this past fall, the efforts came to fruition with the Simmons Discovery Lab. The Simmons Discovery Lab features a variety of exhibits including a desert, rain forest and saltwater habitat. Each exhibit houses creatures such as pythons, clownfish and crawfish. Several of the creatures were donated from local areas, and one of the aquarium tanks came all the way from the Caribbean. Abernathy said that the students have been active in taking care of the creatures, and some students even had the opportunity to take them home for a few days. “This lab was a vision of mine when I applied for the grant several years ago,” Abernathy said. “It’s been exciting to see the children become so involved.”
Nancy McGowan at Bluff Park Elementary is also teaching her students to build and program robots. McGowan received a grant from the HCSF for VEX robotics kits, and the children hope to use their robot in an upcoming robotics competition. “When I visit these classrooms, I can tell the kids absolutely love computers and technology, and that the robotics equipment is just fostering that love through hands-on educational experiences,” Kara Walker said. Other grant projects throughout Hoover City Schools include a bird watching program at Greystone Elementary School, robotics equipment for the Engineering Academy at Spain Park and a program called “Growing Girl Engineers” at Trace Crossings.
Stability balls Deer Valley Elementary School teachers Brittany Cobern and Shelby Hutson recently took on a project with their Foundation grant called “Bouncing Towards Success.” They replaced the chairs in their classrooms with stability balls (also referred to as yoga balls), which promote better concentration, posture and focus. Hutson is using them particularly with special needs children and Walker said both teachers are having great success.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • A23
SHOPPING
CONTINUED from page A1 Boutique. Both stores began construction in February. A Vans shoe and clothing store is under construction in the former site of the Aeropostale, and a Rue 21 and K’s Formal round out the other new additions to the Galleria. “It’s an exciting time for us,” Jacks said. “We’re really excited about what’s coming.” However, the new occupants of the other empty spots are being kept under wraps. Jacks said that she can’t wait to release their names, but the brands will not let anything out until they have moved into their locations. Until the mystery is resolved, many Hoover residents are hoping to see more high-end retailers filling the space. Julie Bland lives less than a mile from the Galleria and said the Banana Republic and White House Black Market were some of her staple clothing stores. Bland felt that the Galleria was starting to cater to a younger crowd and said she has no reason to visit the Galleria anymore except Von Maur. The introduction of stores such as West Elm, Ann Taylor or Pottery Barn would make her more likely to visit the mall more frequently. Tree Crossings Parkway resident Brittany Ortiz likes to go to the Galleria because of the options for her children, but prefers to shop at The Summit when alone. She said she prefers the ability to drive directly up to stores and feels like the Galleria stores aren’t as high-quality. “You can tell that some of the stores are cheaper merchandise,” Ortiz said. On the other hand, Richelieu Lane resident Carol Lowe said she preferred the Galleria to The Summit because inclement weather won’t get in the way of shopping, but she too would
Riverchase Galleria Marketing Manager Angela Jacks stands on the balcony of the second story. The facade behind her hides construction on the Vans store, one of several new retailers coming to the Galleria. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
like to see more name-brand stores like Michael Kors. She also wants the Galleria to add a craft store and more restaurants to the interior of the mall so she has options besides the food court. Riverchase Promenade Right across the street from the Galleria, a strip mall called the Promenade is bringing in a new store of its own. Between the Kirkland’s and Pier One Imports, a Five Below location is under construction. Five Below is a national chain targeted toward teens and pre-teens. It sells clothing, accessories, games, tech accessories and craft supplies, all for $5 or less.
Developers Diversified Realty, the owners of the Promenade, filed their building permit for the 8,100-squarefoot space in September 2014. DDR Director of Communications Matt Schuler said Five Below is a “top retailer” in their malls across the country in terms of sales. The DDR online site plan for Riverchase Promenade shows three additional empty leasing spaces, so more tenants could be coming soon. Riverchase Village Rounding out the roster of new retail is Whole Foods, which is under construction in Riverchase Village on Lorna Road. The store will be taking the place of the former Belle Foods.
Whole Foods will be leasing just over 50,000 square feet, though customers will have around 45,000 square feet of shopping space. David Ashford of Southpace Properties, which represents the Village’s owner, said the Whole Foods is planned to open in the first quarter of 2016. “They’re just a good quality retailer,” Ashford said. “It helps solidify their place in the market.” Loch Ridge Trail resident Cory Hamblen is looking forward to having a Whole Foods near his house and plans to be a regular shopper. He enjoys their products, but always felt that the Whole Foods on U.S. 280 was too far to drive. Tree Crossings Parkway resident Brittany Ortiz is not
a frequent organic food shopper, but she agrees that the convenience will make her visit the new location more frequently. “I don’t think people really want to drive that far,” Ortiz said. “It’s nice when it’s right there.” Hamblen and Ortiz both said that Whole Foods has a better selection than Earth Fare, the organic supermarket at Riverchase Galleria. However, Richelieu Lane resident Carol Lowe pointed to the Earth Fare, Fresh Market and other similar stores as signs that a Whole Foods is not needed. “It’s just a redundant grocery store,” Lowe said. “I’m disappointed to see that it’s a Whole Foods going in there because they don’t have what I need.” Lowe bakes as a hobby and said many baking and dessert items aren’t sold at Whole Foods. She wants to see a Publix come to the area as an alternative to the Walmart Neighborhood Market on Lorna Road. Currently, the nearest Publix is in the Hoover Place Shopping Center on Montgomery Highway. The Whole Foods is part of a larger redevelopment project for the entire Village shopping center. Ashford said the “fresh, new look” will include new sidewalks, landscaping and lighting. Renovations will also be made to the common area and front facade, which will get new awnings, paint and improved parapets. Riverchase Village also has six empty spaces waiting for new businesses. Ashford said the property owner is looking to add food and clothing retail to the shopping center. “We are actively seeking new tenants, but we do not have any signed yet,” Ashford said. Ortiz said the wait won’t be long. “A building doesn’t sit vacant for long in Hoover. If it’s empty, someone will fill it,” Ortiz said.
Sun
SECTION B School House B10 Sports B16 Real Estate B19 Calendar B20
Just keep swimming Hoover residents prepare for junior national meet
By JESSA PEASE A swim season of hard work and dedication has paid off for three Hoover residents as they prepare for the junior national meet in March. Birmingham Swim League competitors Sam Steele, Nicole Smith and Racheal Cunningham will take their events to one of the top 25 meets in the country for swimmers 18 years and under. Athletes from all over the country will participate in the meet, but BSL coach Mike Davidson says his swimmers have a great shot at finals. “It’s fun because where we are now, we’ve got a lot of progress that can be made,” Davidson said. “For me it’s fun because I know we can get there. We can become a lot better and place a lot higher. To me it’s exciting because there’s really only one way to go, and that’s up.” Leading the way is BSL’s top swimmer, Cunningham, who was named No. 3 in the nation in the 100 breaststroke for her age group. The 15-year-old Spain Park student will be swimming the 100 and 200 breaststroke. She swims an impressive 1:03.55 100 breast versus the 1:06.39 qualifying time, and her 200 sits at 2:15.89 against the 2:23.29 qualifying time. With times like these, it’s no wonder the Olympic Trials are on her mind. On top of her workouts with BSL, she has a dry-land routine she completes on her own every day. “She’s really talented. She’s the real deal,” Davidson said. “She can be top 8. She’s got the
See SWIMMING | page B7
Sam Steele swims freestyle at a recent practice before the state meet. Photo by Jessa Pease.
B2 • March 2015
Special Advertising Section
Summer Camp Guide
As days turn warmer, it’s time to start thinking about summertime at last, and no summer is complete without a camp experience. Whether your child likes to swim, dance, act, paint, play or learn, opportunities abound in our area and beyond for daytime and overnight camps. Peruse our guide to learn more about which programs best fit your child’s personality, interest, age and availability. No matter which you choose, it’s time to jump in for fun and adventure this summer!
Academics, sports and music enrichment at Altamont
The Altamont School offers a variety of enriching and entertaining experiences for students each summer. Summer programs are a great way for prospective families to learn about Altamont and current students to get ahead for the upcoming year. High school students can take a variety of credit courses. Standard classes such as such as Geometry and Health are offered in addition to more unique subjects such as Speech, Lab Techniques, and Ancient and Medieval Cultures. Noncredit review classes in Algebra are also available. Day camps for third through eighth-graders offer grade-level appropriate enrichment. Among other offerings, fifth through eighthgrade students can register for a three-week afternoon course that teaches outdoor photography as well as a week of dramatic study focused on Shakespeare. For kids with athletic interests, a basketball camp is offered June 8-11 or June 22-25, and a soccer camp will run May 26-29. And for kids
Altamont School High School Credit Courses Day Camps for Grades 3-8 Sports Camps 4801 Altamont Road South June 1-July 10 altamontschool.org/summer
who prefer music, Band Camps offer fifth to eighth-graders an opportunity to learn to play an instrument, and sixth through eighth-graders who have completed a year of band wanting to improve their playing to the next level. Whether a child participates in an academic or athletic experience, they will experience acceleration and enrichment at Altamont.
Hoover Sun
Summer Camp Guide
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B3
Special Advertising Section
Enjoy fun all summer long with the Y
At the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, children are invited to participate in a variety of summer day camps at each of nine YMCA locations. The YMCA believes that education is important for every child, and has combined learning and fun together for its summer programs. Examples of specialty camps offered include Lego Camp, Drawing Camp, Photography Camp, Future Inventors Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, Super Hero Science Camp, Sports
Camp and Clowning Around Camp. The YMCA Hargis Retreat, located on 200 scenic wooded acres complete with hiking trails, a pool, fields for games and lake, is an ideal backdrop for traditional camp activities. Day Camp activities at Hargis Retreat include swimming, archery, arts and crafts, chapel, canoeing, hiking, field games, fishing, rock climbing, inflatable toys, mountain biking, outdoor survival and fishing. Weekly sessions are from May 26-Aug. 1. There will
also be open houses on site on March 29, April 11 and April 26 from 2-5 p.m. each day. Register online for camps at ymcabham.org/summerdaycamp2015 or ymcabham.org/hargisretreat. Note that parents will still be required to complete all required paperwork when registering online. There is a $25 per child registration fee due at time of registration.
YMCA of Greater Birmingham Summer Day Camps and Hargis Retreat Camps will be offered at Hargis Retreat and the following YMCA locations: Alabaster, Greystone, Hargis Retreat, Hoover, Northeast, Pelham, Shades Valley,
Trussville,Western Area, Youth Center Visit ymcabham.org/ summerdaycamp2015 for specific dates for each location.
B4 • March 2015
Summer Camp Guide
Hoover Sun
Special Advertising Section
Embark on a summer adventure at Camp Cosby
Children always come back with a story to tell after their summer adventure at YMCA’s Camp Cosby. From zip lines to time on the lake, the camp offers something for everyone. YMCA Camp Cosby offers a oneweek, co-ed safe experience for kids ages 6-15 on the shores of Logan Martin Lake. The camp gives kids a chance to play hard, make new friends, and have the adventure of a lifetime in a safe, fun,
and structured environment. “My summer at Camp Cosby was so much fun,” said one camper about the summer experience. “I jumped off the blob and got soaking wet, I got to ride the zip line and splash in the lake, and I made a ton of new friends.” The camp’s 93rd season will open on Sunday, June 7, and camp gates will open at 3 p.m. Children can choose from eight week-long camp experiences. Each
camp week concludes at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. The camp’s cost is $595 a week with a $50 discount for YMCA members. For 5 and 6 year olds, a three-day program called Buckaroos is offered. Its cost is $275 for YMCA members and $325 for nonmembers. For registration information, email cosby@ymcabham.org or visit campcosby.org.
YMCA Camp Cosby Camp Dates:
2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road
June 7-13, 14-20, 21-27,
Alpine, Alabama
June 28-July 4, July 5-11, 12-
256-268-2007
18, 19-25, July 26- Aug 1
campcosby.org
Summer Camp Guide
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B5
Special Advertising Section
Camp in the Gardens
Looking for an educational camp in a beautiful setting? Look no further than the summer camps at Aldridge Gardens. From June 1 to June 26, Aldridge Gardens will be hosting day camps for children entering kindergarten to fourth grade. The camps are weeklong sessions, taking place from 9 a.m.noon. Each camp has a different theme such as American Girls, nature/environmental studies, arts and crafts, active learning games, construction, chemistry and Garden exploration Camp themes such as Painting, Pounding, Picking and Pressing let children experiment with various natural art supplies to create unique and fun projects inspired by the Gardens, while the Chemistry and Construction Kids camp lets the kids experiment with chemistry and build amazing structures from all kinds of materials including tubes, wires, pipes, cans, sticks, magna tiles and more. Participants will learn about safe chemical reactions, states of matter and pH balance. American Girls in Aldridge Gardens camp allows girls to bring their dolls in to explore the magic of the Gardens. This group will make all
Aldridge Gardens Summer Camps June 1- June 26 Aldridge Gardens 682-8019 Register online at aldridgegardens.com aawilson@aldridgegardens.com kinds of accessories and crafts to share with their doll, and enjoy a tea party together. Find the Hidden Treasures of Aldridge Gardens camp invites kids to celebrate imagination as they explore and discover the cool secret places, plants and animals within the Gardens. Teachers with Alabama certification in education lead all the camps. There is a theme for every child at Aldridge Gardens. Mid-morning snacks and drinks are provided.
Play a part
For kids who feel like all the world’s a stage, Red Mountain Theatre Company’s Broadway Bootcamp provides the opportunity to hone singing, dancing and acting skills. With five different levels, this camp is not just for the experienced actors. The Basic and Blast Bootcamps are non-auditioned. Basic Bootcamp is geared toward children age 4-6 for the development of their creative skills. Each week, students will use music, crafts, dance and drama to explore a different theme such as oceans, superheroes or fairytales. The other non-audition type camp is Blast Bootcamp, which teaches kids and teens age 7-18 all the basic skills of musical theatre through music, dance and acting. Students can audition for the Recruit, Intermediate and Advanced Bootcamps on March 14 and 15. Recruits, age 7-18, will learn specialized skills like improvisational comedy, jazz dance and choral singing. This camp focuses on enhancing the performance skills of all young artists. Intermediate Bootcamp is for students, age 9-15, who are ready to take their theatre training to the next level. Students
Broadway Bootcamp June 1-19 Red Mountain Theatre Company redmountaintheatre.org/broadwaybootcamp.html education@redmountaintheatre.org 324-2424
will gain skills in intermediate dance steps and song interpretation. Advanced Bootcamp is for students, age 13-18, who will focus on learning complex production numbers straight from the Broadway stage. Students train for three weeks to become triple-threat performers, becoming experts in singing, dancing and acting. This elite camp is for those who want to be the best of the best.
Summer Camp Guide
B6 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Special Advertising Section
Something for everyone
Vision Gymnastics Summer Camps June 1-Aug. 7 3314 Old Columbiana Road visiongymnastics.com 979-7969 no camper will feel left out. All coaches on staff are background checked and safety certified, so parents can feel safe leaving children during the day. Half-day camps are $125 per week and fullday camps are $225 per week. Full-day camps run from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and half-day campers have a choice between 8-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-4 p.m. “I think kids love our camp because there are so many different things to do that no child ever gets bored,” Juneac said.
Summer camps at the Alabama School of Fine Arts meet the needs of all creative learners, from the young sketch artist to the young scientist. Camps are designed to educate, inspire and enrich the student in a fun, casual and collaborative environment. Camps themes include theatre, engineering, the environment, writing, music, math and game programming. Whether a student is putting their detective skills to the test analyzing samples taken from the Cahaba River, building a propelled airplane, studying musical theory, writing poetry or learning how to select a monologue for a theatre addition, ASFA ensures a unique cultural experience for each child. Space is limited, and camps will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The registration
Alabama School of Fine Arts Summer camps Weekly sessions run from June 1-July 17 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. 252-9241 Register online at asfa.k12.al.us
form and payment is due no later than May 1. A $50 non-refundable cancellation fee is included in all tuition. For more information, visit asfa. k12.al.us.
201 5 A D V ENTURES IN SUMMER LEARNING
Register at www.asfa.k12.al.us for a stimulating summer! Summer Camp at the Alabama School of Fine Arts meets the needs of the young sketch artist to the young scientist. Come experience the magic of the Alabama School of Fine Arts, where education is our passion.
June 1-19 Pre-Algebra Algebra I June 1-5 Theatre Arts Kodu: Game Programming Android App Programming Environmental Engineering Civil Engineering Hydrobotics Engineering Design
F ASA
When Jodie Juneac is asked why kids should go to summer camp at Vision Gymnastics, she points to the satisfaction of her past customers. “Kids beg to stay,” Juneac said. “We have kids that return to every camp we have.” Vision Gymnastics has called Hoover home for three years and has hosted gymnasts from preschool age to collegiate. With a facility featuring in-ground Olympic size trampolines, in-ground pits, a rod floor and TumblTrak, campers have the chance to learn and have fun in many ways. Four types of camps are offered during the summer including gymnastics, trampoline, cheer and summer camp. Each camp focuses on building skills in gymnastics, trampoline or cheer with a small amount of free play and games. Vision Gymnastics’ summer day camp offers a wide variety of activities along with some gymnastics including crafts, games, zip line, trampolines, water play and outdoor games. Camps are provided for children age 3 and up. With camps set at a variety of skill levels,
Have an adventure in learning this summer
June 8-12 Creative Writing Music Hydrobotics Engineering Design Kodu: Game Programming Civil Engineering Environmental Engineering June 15-19 Theater Auditioning Tips Visual Arts Green Machine: Engineering Environmental Engineering Kodu: Game Programming Environmental Engineering July 6-17 Young Dancer Intensive See www.asfa.k12.al.us for camp descriptions, age requirements, times, fees and online registration.
ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard Birmingham, AL 35203 205.252.9241 www.asfa.k12.al.us
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B7
Decorative Hardware and Lighting Showroom Nicole Smith, Sam Steele, Anna Moers and Jason Hsu practice at the Birmingham CrossPlex.
SWIMMING
CONTINUED from page B1 ability but USA swimming has gotten so fast and there’s so much depth. Everything has to go right, but she should make top 8.” Previous to the NCSA Junior Nationals in Orlando taking place March 17-21, Cunningham also competed in the Irvine Junior Nationals where she placed in the finals in the 100 breast, the Grand Prix Arena USA Swimming event in Minnesota and the National Championships in Greensboro. Steele also joined Cunningham at those meets. Davidson describes the home-schooled 16-year-old as “another one who is the real deal.” “Right now I feel pretty good. I’m excited for the future,” Steele said. “I try to keep in mind that it’s not all me. I couldn’t get there on my own. I have to remember that (Davidson) got me there and my coach before him.” He said he feels comfortable and confident in his list of events, which are well above the various qualifying times. He’ll be swimming the 100, 200 and 500 freestyle, along with the 100 butterfly. His 100 free time is at 46.80 against the 47.09 qualifying time and his 200 sits at 1:39.29 versus the national qualifying time of 1:43.09. Just as impressive are his times for the 500 free and the 100 fly. He swims a 4:28.66 500 free, whereas the qualifying time is 4:39.59, and his 100 fly time is 50.51 versus the 51.89 qualifying time.
Davidson said he’s confident in how Steele will perform at the national meet. Probably his most improved Hoover swimmer who has qualified for the national meet is Smith, who will be swimming the 100 and 200 backstroke. “She had some growing issues with her back when she was younger, and she’s just at (age) 15,” Davidson said. “Now she’s been able to work a lot more and she’s doing times she hasn’t done in a year and a half to two years. It’s really exciting. She’s really motivated and really into it.” Smith competed in the Grand Prix Arena USA Swimming event in Minnesota with both Cunningham and Steele. In that meet she reached the national cut for this junior national meet. “I’m really excited (for the races),” Smith said. “I’m more of a 200 back swimmer. I like more of the mid-distance stuff, so I’m really looking forward to it. Mike and Brian [Wrighton] are new coaches and I’m really liking their training.” Davidson said the Hoover High School student has a mechanically beautiful backstroke and that she has a shot to make it to finals at the national meet. Her 100 backstroke time is 57.53 against the 57.99 qualifying time, and her 200 back stands at 2:04.80 versus a qualifying time of 2:05.99. Overall, Smith feels prepared for the meet. “This is the first time I’ll be going to this meet, and it’s really my first big meet,” Smith said. “I’m excited to see how I do. I’m hoping to make finals and drop time in a bunch of events.”
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B8 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
A first, a farce
Dorante meets Clarice and Lucrece Tuileries in Paris and decides to court Clarice, mistakenly confusing her name with that of her friend.
By JESSA PEASE As the cast of Spain Park High School’s The Liar sat at Johnny
Rockets, pumped after a successful performance at the district one-act competition, they found themselves mulling over some possibilities.
The Liar was chosen to move on to the state level, but student director Cecelia Crick said the cast wasn’t sure if they wanted to participate in
the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC). “I was sitting in a booth next to our lead [actor], Conor [Mahoney],”
Crick said. “We were eating, and halfway through he leans over and goes, ‘We’re going to SETC.’ That was a great moment.”
Spring for a new look
hooversun.com As it would happen, the actor was also correct. Spain Park’s show won the state level, and the crew will be performing their one-act at the regional level on March 6, along with schools from nine other states. The competition will consist of 20 plays over a two-day period. Spain Park is no stranger to winning at state. Theatre director Eric St. John said that in Spain Park’s 15 years of existence, it has won the state competition seven times. This year, in addition to winning best in show, five cast members were named to the allstar cast. Spain Park had more cast members named than any other show. In the individual events, five students took first place and one took third. The Liar was originally a 17th century French farce, or a comic dramatic work that uses buffoonery and typically crude characterization and improbable situations, written by Pierre Corneille. American playwright David Ives created a modern adaptation of the play, which was written in iambic pentameter to match the style of Shakespeare’s plays. “It’s really fun. It’s easy to understand,” Crick said. “The little things in the show that you catch are so funny because every line has something to it. There’s no filler space, I love that.” The show is usually a two-act play with the first act running more than 50 minutes, but the rules of the one-act competition allot only 45 minutes for the show. Six days after Spain Park Theatre’s final performance of the show on Oct. 26, they shortened it for the district competition. “They had a busy week,” St. John said. “They had a really fun show at the district competition, and then we were afforded the chance to polish it even more for the state competition.” The Liar’s success was especially
March 2015 • B9
Dark of the Moon Spain Park High School Feb. 25-28, 7:30 p.m. *May not be suitable for kids under 8
The Liar Spain Park High School March 3, 7 p.m.
La Place Royale is centered between Clarice and Lucrece’s homes. Dorante meets them and mixes up their names. Photos courtesy of Eric St. John.
fulfilling to student-director and senior Crick. It was her first stab at directing, and she said it felt amazing that “her baby” came in first. St. John was there to help her with blocking and any questions she had, but he said Crick really developed her own ideas about how the show should look and feel. Crick’s role is telling of the way St. John runs the theater program. He puts the students in charge of everything, including costumes, stage
management and directing, and he supervises or offers advice when it’s needed. “I think it’s just amazing starting from people not really knowing what their character is to getting first place at state,” Crick said. “It’s interesting because some of these people that I’m working with have been in shows most of their high school career, and this is my first stab at working with them. They have what they are used to
with how the rehearsal process goes.” Now the students’ challenge is moving on to the regional competition in March while also preparing for the school’s February show, Dark of the Moon, which Crick is also directing. It will open Wednesday, Feb. 25, and will run through Feb. 28. Soon after Dark of the Moon ends, they will perform The Liar one last time at Spain Park before SETC on March 3 at 7 p.m.
Hands on Care, Close to Home.
The pressure of SETC isn’t as bad as the previous competitions, according to St. John and Crick. “I love SETC because it is much more laid back,” Crick said. “I think at district and at state we are more worried about winning stuff because that’s always really fun, but at SETC it’s about putting on a good show. It’s not about winning.”
! k or w d
^
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Come visit our new clinic on the GodSpeed campus and get a Functional Movement Screening before you begin your training.
B10 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
School House Rita Barksdale joins Hoover High School
Bumpus Middle School hosts clothing drive
The faculty and staff of Bumpus Middle School collected clothing, as well as classic picture books for Sav-A-Life’s Stork’s Nest, a pregnancy resource center. Photo courtesy of Julie Butler.
Rita Barksdale joined the Hoover High School administrative staff this semester as the school’s newest assistant principal. Photo courtesy of Jason Gaston.
Rita Barksdale joined the Hoover High School administrative staff this semester as the school’s newest assistant principal. Barksdale comes to HHS from Plainview High School in Rainsville, Alabama, where she served in a number of capacities including administration and athletics. “Barksdale brings a wealth of experience to our school. As a K-12 principal, she is well versed in all areas of school administration. She will be a tremendous asset to our team,” HHS Principal Don Hulin said.
“My duties at Hoover High School will vary this semester. I will be learning the system and helping in all areas,” Barksdale said. “I am very excited about working in a large school and also being in a 9-12 environment. HHS is a great school and I am very honored to be a part of the team. “ Barksdale’s former school was a K-12 school with a total enrollment of 1140 students. She says she is excited about the challenge of a large school with many different learning opportunities.
Hoover ranked in top Alabama public school districts The 2015 Niche Rankings has ranked Hoover City Schools the third best public school district in Alabama. Hoover schools were ranked highly thanks to breadth and depth of course offerings, quality teachers, health and safety, diversity/culture, educational outcomes and more. Niche ranks 8,738 school districts based on dozens of key statistics and 4.6 million opinions from 280,000 students and parents. A high ranking indicates that the district contains great schools with exceptional
teachers, sufficient resources and a diverse set of high-achieving students who rate their experiences very highly. The Best Public School Districts ranking provides a comprehensive assessment of the overall experience at public school districts in the United States and Puerto Rico. It uses data sourced from various government and public data sets, Niche’s own proprietary data, and 4,624,238 opinion-based survey responses across a variety of topics from 287,606 current students, recent alumni and parents.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B11
Coffee and Cappuccinos joins HCS lunchrooms
After much study and planning, Hoover High School’s “Cafe Siena” successfully opened in early November. Photo courtesy of Jason Gaston.
For a while now, it’s been a trend for some high school students in Hoover to arrive in the mornings with a coffee beverage in hand. Students stopped en route to school to grab lattes, cappuccinos or maybe just a regular cup of coffee. This trend caught the attention of Hoover City Schools’ Child Nutrition Program (CNP) Director Melinda Bonner, who recently led the effort to open coffee shops at both Hoover and Spain Park high schools. “I felt each student would have access to a warm beverage including those who ride the bus and could not stop at a coffee shop on the way to school,” Bonner said. Bonner worked with an area coffee manufacturer to learn about how schools in other states have successfully jumped on the java bandwagon to increase CNP profits. After much study and planning, Hoover High School’s “Cafe Siena” successfully opened in early November. Spain Park High School ushered in its new coffee shop in early December (also “Café Siena”). Both are housed within the schools’ cafeteria spaces. State standards
help regulate caffeine and caloric content. For example, cups of coffee sold in schools ($1.00) or lattes ($2.50) are all limited to sizes no larger than 12oz and no more than 60 calories/ serving. Royal Cup serves as the sole provider of products necessary to run the coffee shops at both of the high schools. This past summer, Bonner and the high school employees tasked with running the new coffee shops toured Royal Cup’s local facility to learn more about products and processes. “It was a great experience to see the production and training on how to make the beverages,” Bonner said. As lunchroom managers and cafeteria workers continue to perfect the coffee shops’ flow of services, it appears java sales will make other positive impacts. Milk and breakfast sales are up following the openings; a positive trend Bonner expects will continue to expose students not only to new products - but healthy choices. -Submitted by Jason Gaston
2014-2015 Gwin Student Council members announced
Back row: Elizabeth Beard, Abby Pate (fifth grade vice president), Carson Wilkins, Davis Deason (president), Vincent Aspito, Nick Berg (historian) and D.J. Oakman. Middle row: Madison Monsma, Soorya Krishna, Caid Finn, Veer Gandhakwala (fourth grade vice president), Adelaide McKeown, Mary Batchelor (secretary) and Jay Briskin. Front row: Cally Bennett, Josie Sturdivant, Julie Hopping, Hollon Johnson, Reagan George. Not pictured: Will Lawrence. Photo courtesy of Michelle Berg.
Gwin Elementary School recently announced their Student Council members for the 2014-2015 school year. The duties and responsibilities of the Gwin Student Council are attending monthly council meetings, participating in all Student Council events, completing five hours of community service, assisting with service activities and presenting themselves as representatives of Gwin Elementary. The purpose of the Gwin Elementary Student Council is to develop attitudes and practices of good citizenship and community service, to encourage student participation at
school activities, and to develop leadership skills in students. The Student Council advisors are Wendy Gault and Stacey Osborne. The mission of Gwin Elementary is to establish a strong foundation for lifelong learning for all students by providing opportunities for academic, social, physical, and emotional growth in a child-centered environment. The school uses a variety of research-based strategies to ensure that each student reaches his or her maximum potential. -Submitted by Michelle Berg
B12 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Prince of Peace students visit YMCA’s Camp Cosby Fifth graders from Prince of Peace Catholic School recently spent three days and two nights at YMCA’s Camp Cosby’s outdoor classroom. The students experienced what they have been learning in the classroom and took advantage of many other learning opportunities on their thirteenth annual field trip. Students learned safe and proper canoe techniques on Lake Logan Martin and survival skills on land including building a fire, shelter and rescue signals. In the Life Learning Lab, the fifth graders touched a six foot long ball python and discovered
how animals adapt to survive in their environments. Another fun part of the trip was the “Ways of Old Days” simulation that took the students back in time to the pioneer days by writing with a quill and ink and making their own toys. Plant physiology, geology, water cycles were also part of the curriculum. The students were accompanied by their teachers Donna Hecklinski and Laurie Jones, principal Connie Angstadt, father Tom Ackerman, guidance counselor Debbie Calvert as well as parent chaperons.
Prince of Peace’s fifth grade students enjoy YMCA’s Camp Cosby. Photo courtesy of Jill Spero.
Gwin Elementary fourth graders take U.S. Space and Rocket Center field trip Gwin Elementary fourth graders recently visited the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville as part of the school’s science unit on space. The student’s learned about the history and importance of the space program and space technology. They watched an IMAX movie about the Hubble Space Telescope, participated in an experiment to choose the best rocket fuel, learned about the 101 Greatest Inventions in History, rode the Mars Simulator, and saw many historical artifacts from the space program.
The mission of Gwin Elementary is to establish a strong foundation for lifelong learning for all students by providing opportunities for academic, social, physical, and emotional growth in a child-centered environment. The school uses a variety of researchbased strategies to ensure that each student reaches his/her maximum potential. -Submitted by Michelle Berg Janna Steele’s fourth graders visited the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. Photo courtesy of Michelle Berg.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B13
March adventures Hoover students share their plans for Spring Break “The main thing scheduled right now is a fishing tournament toward the end of spring break. Before that, my family and I have a few car shows in and around Birmingham to hit up.”
“I might go to the beach and stay in condo and play ultimate frisbee.” Ian Addison, 4th grade, BPES
David Bratcher, 12th grade, SPHS
“I think for half of the week I’m going to my grandparents in Tennessee and seeing some of my cousins.”
“I’m going on a cruise to Mexico. It’s a seven day cruise out of New Orleans. Friends will be joining us on this cruise and I’m very excited!” Kendall Huynh, 10th grade, SPHS
Rachel Sasser, 4th grade, BPES
“My mother and I are going to Gulf Shores and spending time with my grandmother and grandfather. It will be a great time to get together with family.” Chester Hutcherson, 11th grade, SPHS
“I am going camping either in Georgia or around Lake Martin (I’m undecided at this point). I’m also leading a youth retreat for the Youth Department of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama at Camp McDowell.” L.B. Passey, 12th grade, SPHS
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B14 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Q & A with
Jayne Morgan Featured artist from Artists on the Bluff By REBECCA WALDEN Located in the heart of Bluff Park, Artists on the Bluff (AOTB) is a collective of area artisans, representing a wide swath of talent, from performance art to oil painting, and everything in between. Housed in the former Bluff Park Community School building, this creative hub is a place of perpetual activity, given the building’s mixed use which serves as working studios, offices and teaching spaces. This month, the Hoover Sun kicks off a new series where we will feature one of the many artisans who make their professional home at AOTB. This month’s featured artist is Jayne Morgan.
Q A
Describe your artistic journey. How did you first take up painting? I’m originally from Birmingham. My mom put me in painting classes with Linda Vance when I was 10 with my little sister, Pauli. Then all four years at Hoover High School I took ceramics and sculpture from Nelson Grice and loved it. I actually sold my first piece of art in his class my junior year. I went to the
University of Alabama for two years thinking I was going to keep doing sculpture, but it wasn’t the right fit for me. I ended up transferring to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in 2007, moved into a house downtown and started a life-changing adventure there.
Q A
What led you to connect with Artists on the Bluff? After graduating, I moved into a house in Bluff Park. I always passed this building that said “Art Gallery” but I never really looked into it. I was so busy starting my business and doing shows all over the country that I didn’t even realize an artist community was forming right down the street! After two years of working out of my house, I received a call from AOTB asking if I’d be interested in a studio. I walked right over and have been there ever since!
Q
What was the most useful technique you learned from your time at Savannah College of Art and Design? Looking back, I was mostly surprised about how fearless I was in making the decision to attend
A
SCAD. I didn’t know anyone in this city that was seven hours away from home. I left all my friends and family to pursue this new adventure. It was definitely the best decision I have ever made. I always try to be fearless when it comes to my life and my art.
Q A
When you see people’s reactions to your work, how does that make you feel? I love seeing people’s reactions to my work. The honey bears usually evoke a fun and happy emotion. People get excited when they see the bears. I love it because the honey bears make me happy as I’m painting them. One Christmas before I became a painting major at SCAD I painted a portrait of my dad’s mother who died when he was a child. It was the only time I have seen my dad cry. I loved that emotional response to something that I had created. I also love reactions to my students’ work. I always take pictures of my students proudly holding their paintings once they finish them. They not only take home great paintings each week but they also get this new sense of self confidence from starting and finishing
Artist on the Bluff painter Jayne Morgan is shown in her studio at Artists on the Bluff. Morgan is a graduate of Hoover High School and Savannah College of Art and Design. Photo courtesy of Jayne Morgan.
a beautiful work of art on their own.
Q A
Anything else you want to share with our readers? I am also very involved with the organization VSA Alabama, which stands for Very Special Artists. As a community artist I work with children and adults with disabilities and chronic illnesses. I have absolutely enjoyed sharing my talents with these special artists
and together we have raised a lot of money for the program selling our art at their annual auctions. After volunteering with VSA and organizations like it for a couple years, I recently joined the Exceptional Foundation in Homewood as their art director. It has brought me so much joy to be able to give my talents to serve the community in such a positive way.
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B15
From ‘Acting Out’ to acting in a major motion picture Hannah Alligood to hit big screen in Paper Towns By REBECCA WALDEN Hoover residents can expect to see a familiar face when author John Green’s second novel-turned-movie, Paper Towns, hits theaters in June. The city’s own Hannah Alligood will play the lead character, Margo Roth Spiegelman, in her childhood years. Of her time on set, Alligood said one of her favorite moments was when Paper Towns author Green caught her taking a selfie with Cara Delevingne, the actress who plays Margo in the present day. “John Green comes up and says, ‘Aw! Look at Margo and Little Margo!’ and Cara said, ‘Shh! John, don’t creep me out!’ in her lovely British accent. Being around a bunch of actors, there’s always something funny and silly happening.” Long before she was taking selfies with lead actresses, Alligood’s experience was akin to many other children her age. It primarily included music
and related arts programs through her church community. By the time she was six, however, Alligood had taken her first deliberate step in drama training through a local course. “As long as I can remember I always loved performing,” she said. “I would see other kids on TV and then wonder, ‘How do I do that? How do I get there?’” By age 8, Alligood showed interest in and the aptitude for a summer movie camp through Meg Deusner’s Acting Out Academy. Post-camp, she was hooked. After receiving additional training through the Virginia Samford Theatre STARS Academy, Alligood worked up the courage to begin auditioning. “Auditioning is definitely the hardest part,” she said. “Once you book the job, it’s really easy because they’ve chosen you and you aren’t competing against the hundreds of other actors who have also auditioned for that same role anymore. But then again,
I’m learning that it’s not really a competition. It ultimately comes down to who’s right for the part.” In her body of professional work, which spans both television and film, Alligood has amassed experience in sci-fi/drama and mystery/romance. “I enjoy everything about acting so I guess I don’t have a favorite part, genre or style, but I really like comedy and mystery,” said Alligood. “I like comedy because it’s really easy and very comfortable for me, and I like mystery/drama because you really can’t always expect a happily-ever-after ending. Once I’ve been able to work on several more projects, maybe I’ll figure out what I like best. But for now I just want to focus on getting more experience and developing as an actor.” Alligood is home-schooled, which she said affords her the flexibility to be on set without falling behind in her studies. Still, she said it’s a challenge. “The honest answer is that I’m still
Hannah Alligood, right, of Hoover will be on the big screen this summer as young Margo Roth Spiegelman in the movie Paper Towns, based on a novel by John Green, best-selling author of The Fault In Our Stars. Photo courtesy of Clay Alligood.
Learn more about Hannah IMDB imdb.me/hannahriley Instagram @hannahalligood1 Twitter @hannahalligood trying to figure it all out,” she said. “Sometimes it’s really hard and I don’t balance all of it. Depending on the project, I’m required to have school for a certain amount of time every day I’m on set. It’s definitely something
Tumblr hannahalligood.tumblr.com Facebook facebook.com/alligood.hannah
that I’m still working through to find balance with all of it. But if you want my fictional answer, a winged panda does all my schoolwork for me and flies me everywhere I need to be at any given moment.”
B16 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Sports
Signing Day 2015 Hoover athletes sign with colleges
Hoover High School
Emily Simpson (Berry College, golf), Kaila Mathews (Ausbury University, volleyball), Addison Hoven (LSU, volleyball). Photos by Karim ShamshiBasha.
Marcus Webb (Valdosta State, football), Christian Bell (Alabama, football), Justin Johnson (Mississippi State, football).
Alandrea Barnett (Alabama, track), Mary Catherine Nichols (South Alabama, softball), Abby Solomon (Spring Hill, softball).
Jackson Hoesley (Spring Hill, soccer), Jon Michael Stern (UAH, soccer), Taylor Holmberg (UAH, soccer).
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B17
Darrell Williams (Auburn, football), Bradrick Shaw (Wisconsin, football).
Trey Davis (Southern Union Community College, baseball), Jonah Brody (Roanoke College, baseball).
Zachery Eldridge (Cumberland, football), Jeremy Williams (Cumberland, football).
Jada Smith (Union University, basketball), Caleb Gilbert (LSU, baseball)
Kathryn Cather (Ole Miss, volleyball), Malcom Cox (Stillman, football).
Alex Horn (University of the Cumberlands, football), Jaysen Cook-Calhoun (Carson-Newman, football), Kris Parker (Cumberland, football).
Carson Tullo (UAH, track), Madison Pegouske (UAH, track).
R.J. Arnold (Mississippi College, football)
Leonard Wood (Georgia Military College, football), Alex Elam (Shorter, football), Micah Bagley (Mississippi College, football), Zyggy Arledge (Northern Michigan, football).
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area – then the advanced decompression computer system will do the rest. “But I feel fine – as long as I take my pain pills.” There’s a time to use pain medications, BUT not before seeking a natural way to correct the CAUSE of the problem! Spinal decompression just may be the answer that you’ve been looking for. Ask yourself … after taking all these pain medications and playing the ‘wait and see game’, maybe for years…are you any better off? Call and tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Spinal Decompression Evaluation before March 20, 2015. We can get started with your consultation and exam as soon as there’s an opening in the schedule. Our office is called Lorna Road Chiropractic and you can find us at 3081 Lorna Rd Ste.104 in Hoover, AL. I look forward to helping you get rid of your pain so you can start living a healthier, more joyful life. Sincerely, Dr. Latanya Montgomery, Dr. Sheri NeSmith Phone: 205-874-9790
B18 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Spain Park
Mary Kathryn Bonamy- Notre Dame (Softball)
Mason Duke - Shelton Sate Community College (Baseball)
Erik Henze- University of Alabama at Birmingham (Soccer)
Benjamin Lapinski- Young Harris College (Lacrosse)
Rondaius Johnson- Mississippi College (Football)
Sam Prater- Troy University (Golf)
Patrick Martin- Vanderbilt University (Golf)
Mallory McCarty- Alabama Southern Community College (Softball)
Colton Nall- University of Alabama at Huntsville (Lacrosse)
Trent Harper- United States Air Force Academy (Lacrosse)
A.J. Smiley-Troy University (Football)
Karilyn White- University of West Alabama (Softball)
Shades Mountain Christian School
Jaylin Kemp (BirminghamSouthern College, football), Jordan Rockett (Blue Mountain College, golf), Brock Belcher (Wofford College, soccer)
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hooversun.com
March 2015 • B19
Crimson Tide’s Mikey White back on home turf By DAVID KNOX University of Alabama shortstop Mikey White is one of 50 players on the preseason watch list for the Golden Spikes Award given to the country’s top amateur baseball player. Fitting, then, that when he laces up his spikes this season, the former Spain Park star will be playing on home turf. Alabama is playing the majority of its home baseball games at the Hoover Met as the Crimson Tide’s Sewell-Thomas Stadium undergoes a $42.6 million renovation and expansion. White, who was named Mr. Baseball by the Alabama Sports Writers Association after his senior year at Spain Park, is looking forward to the season at the Met. “I’m really excited about it, getting to see my old high school coaches and all the people from around Spain Park that I know being able to come to my games, my dad not having to make that trip down to Tuscaloosa four or five times a week. “The Hoover Met was pretty much in my back yard all through high school. Used to go there to see SEC Tournament games all the time, go to Barons games, so it’s pretty cool making that our home field this year.” White had an outstanding sophomore season for the Tide. He batted .300 for the season, led the team in runs scored with 50, was second on the team in home runs with seven and third on the team in RBIs with 34. He started all 61 games at shortstop — in fact, he’s started every game in his Crimson Tide career. He was an All-Star selection in the Cape Cod League this past summer, and he worked on being a more consistent hitter, he said. He also hopes he will bring something else to the team this year.
Mikey White, former Spain Park star, is one of 50 players on the preseason watch list for the Golden Spikes Award. Photo courtesy of UA Athletics.
“I think I’ve just improved on my maturity as a player and my leadership,” White said. “Knowing how to help guys out when they’re struggling, especially the younger guys, helping them through slumps and stuff. Doing the things the older guys did for me.” Coach Mitch Gaspard’s Alabama (37-24 in 2014) team was ranked No. 20 in the country in the preseason. The Crimson Tide has been a young team the past two seasons. White believes the growing pains will now pay off
with experience. “I think that we’ll be a more experienced group … but I also think our freshmen are going to help us out. The older guys just need to help them through everything.” Although many Alabama fans who don’t normally get to make it to Tuscaloosa very often will benefit from the Tide playing at the Met, it creates a bit of a logistical issue for the team. “It’s going to be a little bit of a struggle, having to travel to our home games,” White
said. “Go through the grind of playing 56 road games.” For the Southeastern Conference weekend series, the Crimson Tide will bus up on Friday mornings for that night’s game and stay in a hotel over the weekend, heading back after the Sunday afternoon games. For the single weekday games, they’ll bus up and back the same day. “I think this team is really talented, and we have our goals locked in our minds,” which White said are to win the SEC, get into postseason play and get to Omaha for the College World Series. “I think we feel like we’re not going to be denied, keep working hard and then I think we’ll end up where we want to be in the end.” White said the starting pitching — which should include Hoover High product Geoffrey Bramblett — has been an early surprise. Taylor Guilbeau and Will Carter are also slated to be starters. “They’re not those guys people really know about because we lost (Spencer) Turnbull, (Justin) Kamplain, (Jon) Keller, but I think our weekend rotation is going to surprise some people because they’ve been throwing the ball really well this fall and this spring. I think those pitchers are really going to surprise some people.” Turnbull and Kamplain signed pro contracts. Keller, who played at Thompson, will miss the entire season after having surgery to repair a torn biceps tendon, a partial ulnar collateral ligament and bone spurs and chips in his arm. If the starters do come through, at the back end is Thomas Burrows, who was named to the National College Baseball Writers Association’s preseason watch list for Stopper of the Year, awarded to the nation’s top relief pitcher.
B20 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Hoover
Real Estate Listings MLS #
Zip
Address
Status
Price
622038
35226
3898 Village Center Drive
New
$429,900
622562
35242
3317 Crossings Court
New
$355,000
622540
35244
5717 Park Side Pass
New
$224,900
622539
35244
5720 Park Side Pass
New
$219,900
622537
35244
5528 Park Side Circle
New
$229,900
622534
35244
5733 Willow Lake Drive
New
$284,900
622459
35242
3004 Shandwick Court
New
$459,900
622455
35244
5808 Waterstone Point
New
$339,900
622285
35244
5825 Water Point Lane
New
$236,500
622275
35244
5302 Park Side Circle, 114
New
$342,000
622273
35244
1661 Shades Pointe Drive
New
$269,900
622199
35242
5608 Canongate Lane
New
$1,349,000
622259
35226
221 Caliente Drive
New
$275,000
622221
35244
338 Oak Trace
New
$310,000
622260
35226
75 Shades Crest Road
New
$173,000
622160
35226
1711 Kestwick Circle
New
$279,900
622144
35244
2041 Lakemoor Drive
New
$344,900
622115
35244
335 Oak Leaf Circle
New
$209,900
622068
35226
3549 Al Seier Drive
New
$170,000
622012
35244
1855 Russet Woods Lane
New
$234,900
Real estate listings provided by birminghamrealtors.com on Feb. 17. Agents and agency vary by property.
3839 Village Center Drive
5608 Canongate Lane
hooversun.com
March 2015 • B21
Calendar Hoover Public Library Events 200 Municipal Drive 444-7800
Adults Tuesdays: Adult English Classes. 6:30-8 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Free Basic or Intermediate English Classes March 3-31. No registration required. Call 444-7820. March 1: Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: Creole. 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Coffee-ol-ogy Café presents free programs on food and coffee from around the world. Complimentary samples provided. Call 444-7821. March 2: Friends of the Hoover Library. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Storyteller and Alabama native Leonard Lee Smith explores the humor and pathos of Southern family life from the Great Depression to the present. Free and open to the public. Refreshments at 9:45 a.m. Call 444-7840. March 2: Gardening in Small Spaces. 6:30 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. From pots to straw bales, on patios or in your yard, learn how to grow where you are. Presented by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Call 444-7840. March 5: First Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Discussing A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra. Call 444-7820.
March 5: Vulcan Eejits. 6:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early with Vulcan Eejits, a Celtic trio featuring fiddle, guitar, flute and vocals. Call 444-7821.
March 10: Spanish Conversation Club. 7-8 p.m. Library Plaza. All Spanish fluency levels welcome to practice and learn. Call 4447820.
March 9: More Than a Game. 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. This inspiring film looks back at the early triumphs of NBA great LeBron James and his high school teammates. Free admission and refreshments. (PG, 100 minutes). Call 444-7840.
March 12: Second Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Discussing Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline. Call 444-7820.
March 9: Helping Hands. 3-8:30 p.m. Nonfiction Department. Make newspaper rolls for a local humane society. Teens and adults. Call 444-7840. March 9: Trivia Night. 7 p.m. Beef ‘O’ Brady’s - The Grove. Round up your friends and join us for Trivia Night at local Hoover restaurant, Beef ‘O’ Brady’s at The Grove (5519 Grove Blvd.). Compete for great prizes while having fun. Call 444-7820. March 10: Daytime Nonfiction Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Theatre Level Conference Room. Discussing The Girls of Atomic City: The Untold Story of the Women Who Helped Win World War II by Denise Kiernan. Call 444-7816. March 10: Write Club Flash Fiction Night. 7 p.m. The Library Theatre. Come enjoy the local talent of Write Club members. Call 444-7820.
March 12: Bring Home the Memories. 2 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Travel photographer Virginia Jones presents tips to capture the best memories of your trips. Call 4447840. March 14: Purl @ the Plaza. 1-5 p.m. Library Plaza. Burst into spring with beautiful colors of yarn for your crafty pleasure. Call 444-7820. March 16: Neuroscience Café: Alzheimer’s Disease. 6:30 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Presented by the UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center. Free. Call 444-7840. March 18: No Jacket Required Nonfiction Book Group. 10:30 a.m. Plaza Reading Room. This month’s genre is the Civil Rights Movement. Call 444-7840. March 22: Watermelon Wine & the Poetry of Southern Music. 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Frye Gaillard,
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Patti Callahan Henry and Anne E. DeChant take to the stage to perform and discuss songwriting from a uniquely Southern perspective. Call 444-7821. March 23: Monday at the Movies. 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. A young boy with stunted growth is convinced that God has a great purpose for him. Stars Ashley Judd and Oliver Platt. Free admission and refreshments. (PG, 115 minutes). Call 444-7820. March 24: Glue Gun Gang: Wordy Wall Art. 6:30 p.m. Theatre Conference Room. Share your words of wisdom with the world using collage and a reverse stencil technique. Adults only. Free. Reservations required. Reservations begin March 1. Call 444-7840. March 26: Glue Gun Gang: Wordy Wall Art. 10:30 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Room C. Share your words of wisdom with the world using collage and a reverse stencil technique. Adults only. Free. Reservations required. Reservations begin March 1. Call 4447840. March 26: Nighttime Nonfiction Book Group. 7 p.m. Allen Board Room. Discussing Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital by Sheri Fink. Call 444-7816. March 27: After Hours @ the Plaza: Game Nite. 7 p.m. -10 p.m.
Library Plaza. Put your game face on and meet up with your fellow gamers. Call 444-7821. March 28: Still the Boss: How Women Business Owners Can Grow Their Business. 7 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. The sequel to the wildly popular program “It’s Not Bossy If You’re the Boss” will focus on what women need to do to take their business to the next level. Call 444-7816. March 29: Out of Whole Cloth: The Life of Bettye Kimbrell. 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Author Joyce Cauthen joins Kimbrell for a discussion of her life and work, followed by a brief craft demonstration. Book signing to follow. Call 444-7840.
Teens March 3: Teen Book Club. 6 p.m. Will discuss Maze Runner. March 9: Helping Hands. 3 p.m. Make newspaper rolls for a local humane society.
Kids March 16: This Just In. 6:30 p.m. A new-books book club for grades 4-6. Read a book published in the last six months.
B22 • March 2015
Hoover Sun
Calendar Hoover Events
Hoover City Council
March 5: Concordia Choir Concert. 7 p.m. Shades Crest Baptist Church. $20 premium reserved, $15 adults general admission, $10 students. Visit concordiatickets.com or call 800-838-3006.
March 17: Hoover Historical Society Meeting. 1:30 p.m. Hoover Library. Director of Confederate Memorial Park Bill Rambo will speak. Visit hooverhistoricalsociety.org.
March 7: The Liar. 7 p.m. Spain Park High School. See the theatre department perform before competing at SETC. Visit spainparkhigh.al.hch.schoolinsites.com.
March 21: Leprechaun Leap. 8 a.m. The Preserve. Proceeds will benefit Easter Seals of Birmingham. Visit eastersealsbham.org.
March 7: Boy Scout Troop 21 Third Annual Multi-family Yard Sale. 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Bluff Park United Methodist Church. Contact Laura Lewis at 824-2920. March 7: Arbor Day Celebration. 9:30 a.m. Aldridge Gardens. Hosted by the Hoover Beautification Board. Visit aldridgegardens.com. March 7: Hoover Historical Society Open House. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Artists on the Bluff. Visit hooverhistoricalsociety.org.
March 21: PAWS in the Gardens. 9 a.m.5 p.m. Aldridge Gardens. Dogs and owners are welcome in the gardens to walk, meet other dogs and learn about dog care. Visit aldridgegardens.com. March 28: Walk to End Lupus Now. 8 a.m. Veterans Park. Proceeds will raise funds for the Lupus Foundation of America. Visit kintera.org. March 29: Hoover Church of Christ Food Pantry. 3-4:30 p.m. Hoover Church of Christ. Visit homewoodchurchofchrist.org or call 8225610.
1694 Montgomery Highway Suite 108 Visit hooverchamber.org
March 12: Coffee & Contacts. 7:30-9 a.m. Hyatt-Regency Birmingham The Wynfrey Hotel. Call 987-1600. March 18: Ambassador Meeting. 4:30 p.m. Chamber Office.
March 19: Hoover Chamber Luncheon. 11:15 a.m. Hoover Country Club. Reserve space by March 16. $20 with reservations, $22 without reservations. Call 988-5672. March 24: Minority Business Council Meeting. Noon. Chamber Office. March 26: Business After Hours. 5:30-7 p.m. Tom Williams BMW. Call 541-0000.
3.7.15
March 2: Hoover City Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Hoover City Hall third floor. Visit hooveral.org.
March 16: Hoover City Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Hoover City Hall third floor. Visit hooveral.org.
Area Events March 1-April 2: Cathedral Church of the Advent Lenten Lunches. Full service line 12:051 p.m. Express line 12:30-1 p.m. 2017 Sixth Ave. N., Downtown Birmingham. Lunches will be served weekdays from Ash Wednesday to Maundy Thursday. Visit adventbirmingham.org. March 2-April 3: Cathedral Church of the Advent Lenten Preaching Series. 12:05 p.m. Cathedral Church of the Advent. Series will feature preachers from all over the world. Visit adventbirmingham.org.
Hoover Chamber of Commerce March 5: Economic Development Committee Meeting. 8:30 a.m. Chamber Office.
100 Municipal Lane
March 2- 4: Roller Derby Recruitment Workshop with the Tragic City Rollers. Monday 7-10 p.m., Wednesday 8-10 p.m. Free. Skates available for rental for $3. Visit tragiccityrollers.com. March 3: Samford University Orchestra. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Brock Recital Hall, Samford University. Free. Visit samford. edu.
March 3: Shpongletron 3.1. 8 p.m. Iron City. Music performed by Simon Posford and Raja Ram. $20 in advance, $24 on the day of the show. All ages. Call 202-5483. March 5: Birmingham Art Crawl. 5-9 p.m. Birmingham Historic Loft District. Monthly showcase of local artists. Free. Visit birminghamartcrawl.com. March 9-March 14: Theatre UAB’s 12th Annual Festival of 10-Minute Plays. Monday-Friday 7:30-9:45 p.m., Saturday 2-4:15 p.m. Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center. Visit alysstephens.org. March 10: University of Alabama Baseball vs. Alabama A&M. 2 p.m. Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. $8 adults, $5 ages 18 and under. Visit secticketoffice.com. March 10: The Lone Bellow with Odessa. 8 p.m. Workplay. $16 in advance, $18 day of show. Visit workplay. com.
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hooversun.com
March 2015 • B23
Calendar Area Events
Moonlight on the Mountain
(continued) March 13, 15: La Bohème. Friday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Presented by Opera Birmingham. Visit operabirmingham.org or call 322-6737.
585 Shades Crest Road moonlightonthemtn.com March 2: Open Mic Night. $5. March 4: Cliff Eberhardt with Special Guest Louise Mosrie. $15
March 14: Renew Our Rivers-Cahaba Cleanup 2015. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Amphitheatre Park, 816 County Road 52. Call 874-5623.
March 5: Jason Bailey and Dwayne Tew. $12.
March 14: Oh, Happy Day Spring Market. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wynfrey Hotel. Shop for one-of-a-kind Easter, Mother’s Day, bridal shower and graduation gifts. Call 588-8962 ext. 705.
March 7: Slamabama Band. $15. March 12: Nathan Bell and Megan McMillan. $12.
March 14: Guild Gala. 6 p.m. The Club. Black tie event with a cocktail reception, formal seated dinner, live auction emceed by JOX Roundtable and provided by 4 Barrel Funk. Visit theserviceguild.org. March 14: Arc of Jefferson County Shamrock Shindig. 6 p.m. Avondale Brewery. Food by Rusty’s BBQ, music by DJ Mark Goldstein. All proceeds benefit the Arc of Jefferson County. $30 per person, $50 per couple. Visit arcofjeff.org. March 15: Santana. 8 p.m.-midnight. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. $58$148.50 plus fees and service charges. Call 800745-3000. March 20-21: Lysa TerKeurst: Your Best Yes: What Happens When Women Say Yes to God. Friday 7-8:15 p.m., Saturday 9:30-
March 14: Rod Picott and Ellen Cherry. $15. March 15: Henri’s Notions. $15. March 16: Open Mic Night. $5. March 19: Pierce Pettis and Pat Terry. $15. Cathedral Church of the Advent members Fontaine Pope, The Rev. Canon Deborah R. Leighton, Lynn Cassady, The Rev. Andrew C. Pearson, Jr. and Marcus Cassimus. The church will host Lenten lunches and a lecture series in March. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Lyles Dowdle.
10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon. Canterbury United Methodist Church. Adults $30, students $20. Visit canterburyumc.org. March 21: 5K for Kids. 9 a.m. Regions Field. Take small steps to end childhood obesity. $30. Visit
March 20: Moonlight’s Fifth Birthday Bash. March 21: If Birds Could Fly and Sylvia Rose Novak. $12.
jlbonline.com/5kforkids.
March 28: Amy Speace. $15.
March 31: Sarah McLachlan. 8-11 p.m. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. $45$85. Call 800-745-3000.
*All shows start at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
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