REAL ESTATE REPORT This story is part of The Real Estate Report. For the full report, see pages A14-19.
tools, hard work, partnerships help Hoover crime drop 10%
By JON ANDERSON
Crime continues to drop in Hoover, reaching 18-year lows for burglaries, car break-ins and vehicle thefts in 2024, Hoover police Chief Nick Derzis said.
And non-traffic homicides and robberies were just slightly above the lows for that time frame— extremely low for a city of almost 100,000 people, Derzis said.
By EMILY REED
There were only 70 burglaries in Hoover in 2024, compared to a high of 454 in 2009 and an 18-year average of 280. There were only 61 vehicle thefts, compared to a high of 136 in 2007 and an average of 96 over 18 years, the chief said. There were 201 auto break-ins, compared to a high of 530 in 2013 and an average of more than 400 over the past 18 years.
See CRIME | page A14
Nancy Hale, left, and Sarah Turner look through samples in a model house at the new Everlee development in Hoover. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
ABOUT US
Editor’s Note By Jon Anderson
The first day of spring — March 20 — is fast approaching. That means temperatures are starting to rise, but it’s also the time of year when the real estate market heats up.
This year will be interesting to watch as the market continues to stabilize. In this month’s paper, we’re focusing on real estate — an important part of the economy and a key topic for anyone looking to upsize, downsize or relocate due to a life change.
Emily Reed highlights two of Hoover’s top-producing Realtors on the cover, and we also provide a review of 2024, an outlook for the rest of 2025, and tips for preparing your home for sale, staging a home, or buying a home for the first time. I hope you find it informative.
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Please submit all articles, information and photos to: janderson@starnesmedia.com
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In the Classroom
ACCOLADES GET TO KNOW
College, Career Specialist Tracy
By STAFF
Tracy Prater is a college and career specialist at Spain Park High School.
Q: What inspired you to work in education?
A: I kind of fell in love with it when I was on the postsecondary side of college admissions. I worked as a student worker in the admissions office at my university when I was an undergrad and kind of fell in love with that work. I worked at three different public universities, and the opportunity came to help students on what we call the other side of the desk, so I jumped at that. And I just love helping people.
Q: What’s something great about your school?
A: I love the sense of community at Spain Park High School. Faculty and staff feel like family, and it just kind of trickles down to the kids. Everybody’s so supportive, and you instantly feel that community the second you start working here or going to school here. I love it.
Q: Tell us something about you that people might not know.
A: I have done a brief stint as an amateur stand-up comedian — very amateur, open mic amateur. I’m also a musician, and I actually spent some time in the ministry before I went into education.
Prater
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
A: There’s a type of person that I don’t think gets any fulfillment from anything other than a service profession, I think, and that’s just being able to serve others and be a help to others is, you know, that’s, that’s what I’m all about. I consider myself lucky to come to work every day.
By JON ANDERSON
The Finley Committee, which recognizes outstanding character in Hoover City Schools, this year honored three teachers from Berry Middle School, Gwin Elementary and the Crossroads alternative school for their dedication to students and commitment to character and service.
The 2025 Robert F. Bumpus Teacher in the Trenches Awards went to:
► San Juanita “Janie” Blackstone, an English learner teacher at Gwin Elementary
► Kimberly Richardson, an eighth-grade science teacher at Berry Middle
► Ryan Gibson, an exceptional education teacher at the Crossroads alternative school
► Chris Robbins, Hoover’s chief learning officer, said there were a record 75 people nominated this year.
Blackstone has taught for 22 years, the past four at Gwin Elementary. She also spent 11 years at Helena Elementary and time in Mobile County, Louisiana and Texas. Her colleagues described her as a dedicated, selfless and compassionate educator who builds deep, meaningful relationships, ensuring her students feel supported academically and personally.
Richardson has been teaching for 20 years, 18 of them at Berry Middle. Her nominators
described her as a pillar of strength and encouragement who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every student feels valued, supported and equipped for success. Gibson is in her 15th year of teaching, and this is her seventh in Hoover City Schools. She also taught eight years in Columbus, Ohio. Gibson’s colleagues describe her as a dedicated advocate and a source of support for students, families and fellow educators. Her commitment to education has led to significant improvements in student engagement and success.
Winners of the 2025 Robert F. Bumpus Teacher in the Trenches Award, from left, Berry Middle School science teacher Kimberly Richardson, Crossroads School exceptional education teacher Ryan Gibson and Gwin Elementary English Learner teacher San Juanita “Janie Blackstone. Photo by Jon Anderson.
Prater
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In-home foot care for seniors with Alabama Foot Care at Home
When you’re young, it’s easy to take your feet for granted, but healthy feet are critically important in maintaining your independence and quality of life as you age.
Alabama Foot Care at Home provides quality, inhome foot care for seniors and the homebound.
Routine foot care is essential for seniors, because even minor issues – wounds and ingrown toenails, for example – can lead to serious complications, including infections, if left untreated. They may even require hospitalization
Not only that, but many homebound patients are not getting the foot care they need.
“I've witnessed the critical need for accessible foot care first-hand,” says Jason Patterson, who founded Alabama Foot Care at Home in 2023.
Patterson has 14 years of nursing experience in acute care, primary care, hospice and home health.
An Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Patterson also become a Certified Foot Care Specialist (CFCS) through the American Foot Care Nurses Association in 2023.
At Alabama Foot Care at Home, Patterson offers skin and nail assessments; nail trimming and filing; treatment of fungal nails, corns and calluses; neurological and diabetic foot examinations; and massage for the feet and lower legs to stimulate blood flow and prevent swelling.
“It is preventive care to save limbs,” Patterson says. “This includes diabetics, cancer patients, people on blood thinners, patients with neuropathy or bad circulation. You can find the problem much earlier before it becomes a big problem.”
Alabama Foot Care at Home also offers foot health education, including information regarding proper footwear, and referrals to podiatrists and other medical care as needed.
The work he does with older and homebound patients is “incredibly gratifying,” Patterson says. “I try to provide the best quality routine foot care, which is what most of these people need.”
Patterson earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing at UAB in 2011 and 2016, respectively. He earned his certification as a nurse practitioner in 2016. He also worked at UAB for eight years.
Patterson’s interest in helping older people goes back to his student days at UAB, when he worked in a geriatric psychiatry department at
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Providing private-pay foot care services
• Call: 205-739-4581
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another local hospital.
“I felt good about taking care of older people who really needed the help – especially at their most vulnerable time,” Patterson said.
After becoming a nurse practitioner, Patterson helped provide in-home primary care for seniors through UAB Geriatrics.
“One service that we could not consistently get for these patients was podiatric services,” he says. “This need went unmet, and that could lead to hospitalization.”
This gave Patterson the idea for Alabama Foot Care at Home.
Amberly Hammack, a registered nurse, is part of Patterson's team and has nearly completed her CFCS certification.
In addition to individual patients, Alabama Foot Care at Home partners with nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospice agencies.
Alabama Foot Care at Home doesn’t accept insurance and Medicare, and all visits are private pay.
By avoiding insurance red tape, Patterson can give patients “more immediate access to care,” he says.
“I can provide the care I know they need and not the care that the insurance company dictates I should give them,” he says.
For information, call 205-739-4581 or go to alabamafootcareathome.com.
Scan the QR code with your phone to get your FREE Introduction to Medicare checklist.
Jason Patterson, MSN, CRNP, CFCS, CRC
Business Buzz
BUSINESS HAPPENINGS
COMING SOON
Guthrie’s has signed a lease for a new restaurant in the former 3,900-square-foot Steak ’n Shake outparcel at 1817 Montgomery Highway in Riverchase Village. The fast-casual restaurant chain has 48 locations in 12 states and serves chicken fingers, French fries, coleslaw and Texas toast.
334-887-6555, guthrieschicken.com
RELOCATIONS AND RENOVATIONS
Master Scarsella's World Class Tae Kwon Do has relocated its Hoover location from 3417 Old Columbiana Road, Suite B, to 1713 Montgomery Highway, Suite 141, in the Riverchase Promenade shopping center. The business also has a location at 268 Inverness Center Drive.
205-981-9636, alabamatkd.com
NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
General Informatics, an information technology company with its Birmingham-area office at 1200 Corporate Drive, Suite 470, in the Meadow Brook Corporate Park, held an Alabama Innovation Symposium on Jan. 16 at City Club Birmingham. The event brought together Alabama's technology community for three hours of inspiration, learning and connection, exploring technology trends and innovations. Speakers included leaders from General Informatics, SecurIT360, TechBirmingham, The Clarity Co. and obney.ai. 205-413-4454, geninf.com
Mohan Kalagotla is seeking approval from the city of Hoover to open an event and party space at The Centre at Riverchase shopping center at 1694 Montgomery Highway, next to his Hyderabad House Alabama Indian restaurant. The Hoover Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to consider the request on March 10.
Deer Valley Partners is asking the Hoover City Council to rezone about 2 acres at 5245 Ross Bridge Parkway from a preferred commercial (office) district to a community business district. The property is one of two 2-acre parcels owned by Deer Valley Partners and is just south and east of property owned by Cross Creek Church. The Hoover City Council likely will consider the request at its March 17 meeting.
Do you have news to share about a business in Hoover or the greater Birmingham area? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings
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Roger Jenkins, whose term as a director and CEO of Murphy Oil Corp. ended on Dec. 31, has been appointed to serve on the board of directors of Regions Financial Corp. and its subsidiary Regions Bank, which has an operations center at 2090 Parkway Office Circle in Riverchase and multiple branches in Hoover. Jenkins’ term on the Regions boards began Jan. 1. He is one of 14 board members and serves on the risk and technology committees. 800-734-4667, regions.com
Dr. John Lowman, a resident of the Monte D’Oro neighborhood in Hoover and an associate professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Health Professions’ Department of Physical Therapy, has received an Alumni Achievement Award from Duke University’s doctor of physical therapy program. He is the director of the residency program at UAB’s Department of Physical Therapy and is a board-certified cardiopulmonary clinical specialist. He also is part of the UAB School of Medicine’s Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Integrative Center for Aging Research, and Cystic Fibrosis Research Center. uab.edu/shp/pt
APCO Employees Credit Union (with locations in Hoover at 4725 Chace Circle and 6400 Tattersall Park Drive) is merging with Mutual Savings Credit Union in Atlanta, which is separate from the Mutual Savings Credit Union in Alabama. The Atlanta credit union now operates as a division of APCO Employees Credit Union, and both credit unions will work toward a full conversion in 2025. 205-823-7403, 205-547-9400, 800-950-6728, apcocu.org, mutualsavingscu.org
The Hoover City Council has approved a license to sell alcoholic beverages to the Homewood Suites Birmingham South Inverness hotel at 215 Inverness Center Drive. 205-995-9823, hilton.com
Capstone Building Corp., a general contractor based in the Meadow Brook Corporate Park at 1200 Corporate Drive, Suite 350, has completed construction of Colina Ranch Hill, a $62.6 million apartment community in Pasco County, Florida (in the Tampa area). Capstone also has been awarded $45 million worth of work to help revitalize the Bowen Homes Choice Neighborhood in Atlanta, including a $1 million contract to build a stormwater pond, $7 million in other public infrastructure work and $37 million in vertical construction. 205803-5226, capstonebuilding.com
PERSONNEL MOVES
HBH Realty, currently based at 3000 Galleria Circle, Suite 301 but building a new office in the Knox Square community in Trace Crossings, recently welcomed three new real estate advisors to its team. Carolina Gualdron, originally from Colombia, South America, focuses her efforts on Shelby County, particularly in Alabaster, Pelham and Chelsea. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and is a certified stager. 205-451-7726. Fleur Robinson, originally from Scotland, brings a different international perspective. 205645-3443. Michelle Toral, the oldest daughter of a first-generation Mexican-American family, specializes in residential homes and first-time homebuyers. 205-616-3698, 205-406-6549, hbhrealty.net
Pure Style Salon & Spa at 2341 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 121, has added Brittany Aylieff and Erica Spencer as new stylists. Both are recent graduates of the Paul Mitchell cosmetology school. 205-820-9229, purestylespa.com
America’s First Federal Credit Union, with locations in Hoover at 3312 Old Columbiana Road and No. 2 Inverness Center Parkway, has two nominees to fill vacancies on the credit union’s board of directors. They are Melanie McNary, who previously served on the board from 2017 to 2023, and Jim Dorris. McNary is vice president of human resources at Power Grid Components. Dorris is a senior technology leader at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. Credit union members are scheduled to vote on filling the vacancies on April 15. 205-823-398, 205-995-0001, amfirst.org
Lynnda Gaines has joined the RealtySouth office at 109 Inverness Plaza as a Realtor. 205-586-9238, realtysouth.com
ANNIVERSARIES
Fi Plan Partners, a financial planning company based at 5825 Feldspar Way in Trace Crossings, celebrated its 20th anniversary in February. The company offers comprehensive financial services, including financial planning, insurance services, business consulting, portfolio strategies and coordination with other professionals. 205-989-3496, fiplanpartners.com
CLOSINGS
The Dollar General at 2144 Tyler Road in Bluff Park Village closed on Jan. 16.
Dorris
Toral
Gaines
McNary
Robinson
Gualdron
Jenkins
Scarsella
Lowman
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Skye Clinic offers personalized wellness solutions for health and performance
If you’re seeking help with weight management, IV therapy, women’s health or athletic performance, look no further than Skye Clinic in Hoover.
Co-owners Hank and Emily Lavallet and their caring, experienced staff help you achieve your wellness goals and improve your life.
Skye Clinic offers you a thorough assessment — including blood tests — and creates your own custom plan.
The clinic’s atmosphere is also “lowkey and very personal,” Emily says. “We think of our staff as family, and we treat our patients like that, too.”
WEIGHT LOSS
Patients seeking to lose weight certainly need a customized plan, and Skye Clinic helps you create that plan and set realistic goals.
“We take an individual, holistic approach,” Hank says.
This matters because a weight problem can have different causes, such as thyroid issues or insulin resistance, and the clinic conducts extensive blood work to determine a patient’s specific issues.
“We take a total wellness approach, and weight loss is just one part of that,” Hank says, noting that Skye Clinic also looks at a patient’s diet and exercise.
The clinic has four GLP medications and other supplements to facilitate weight loss, but the staff doesn’t rely solely on drugs.
“GLP works, but there are consequences and issues we need to address
to get the best results out of it,” Hank says.
Patients have weekly follow-ups with the Skye team to stay on track.
“We do whatever we can to help them, and if something isn’t working, we figure out why and change course,” Hank says.
IV DRIP THERAPY
Many Americans are chronically dehydrated or suffer from vitamin deficiencies, but Skye Clinic can assess your needs and help fill them.
One way is through intravenous therapy — a way of administering vitamins, minerals and essential fluids directly into your bloodstream.
Of course, lots of clinics give IVs, but Skye Clinic is more methodical in its approach.
“We won’t give you an IV just to give you an IV,” Hank says. “We deliver the right IV at the right interval at the right time.”
The trained Skye Clinic professionals assess your vitamin and mineral levels and your hormones.
“We want to make sure we give you the right medications, the right supplements, to ensure you get the best results,” Hank says.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
Regarding women’s health, Skye Clinic deals primarily with issues faced by
Skye Clinic
• Where: 3659 Lorna Road, Hoover
• Call: 205-783-5995
• Web: skyehoover.com
premenopausal women, including mood changes, sleep problems and decreased sexual drive.
Such problems arise because these women suffer from decreased production of hormones like estrogen. The peptides and other drugs Skye Clinic uses help women maximize their body’s production of needed hormones.
“We want to stay on top of those hormones, replace them and make sure your levels are right,” Hank says.
GETTING IN SHAPE
Whether you’re a trained athlete or a weekend warrior, Skye Clinic can help fine-tune your body and recover more quickly after your workouts.
Skye offers you customized plans based on extensive lab testing, and the clinic uses advanced therapies and injectables to boost recovery, enhance performance and promote overall health.
“When you’re at the gym, we want to make sure your body is ready to aid your performance and will recover and rebuild as quickly as possible after the workout,” Hank says.
GET TO KNOW
Mason Music owner, CEO Will Mason
By STAFF
Will Mason is the owner of Mason Music, a local chain of music education centers and supply stores.
Q: Tell us about your business.
A: Mason Music exists to teach, equip and empower the next generation of music makers. We do this by teaching private lessons on guitar, piano, voice and drums with our incredible, award-winning teachers. We also sell beginner instruments so that we can equip our students with what they need to succeed.
Q: How did you get involved with the business?
A: Well, I'm what I like to call an accidental entrepreneur. I did not set out to start a business. No, rather I had someone approach me and asked me to teach them guitar lessons.
That's how this whole thing started.
Q: What sets you apart from your competitors?
A: One thing that sets us apart from our competition is just our size. With over 65 teachers on our staff, we're able to match each student with someone who is a good fit for them based on their skill set, their goals, their personality and their schedule.
Additionally, we have some really unique performance opportunities, like Rock Band League where students can join a band, learn how to play with other young musicians and play real shows at some of the best venues here in Birmingham.
Q: What would your customers say they like about you?
A: One of the main things our parents really appreciate about Mason Music is the way we invest in their children's confidence.
SPOTLIGHT
Yellowhammer Cards and Gaming is a trading cards and game store at the
Yellowhammer Cards & Gaming offers welcoming space for connection
By STAFF
Yellowhammer Cards & Gaming, located at 5510 U.S. 280, Suite 119, has become a gathering place for sports card collectors and gaming enthusiasts since it opened in May 2023.
The shop was founded by Jeff Lentz, a longtime collector and trader who wanted to create more than just a store. His vision was to provide a welcoming space where families and hobbyists — whether seasoned collectors or newcomers — could connect over their shared interests.
The store offers a wide variety of items, from sports cards spanning different leagues to Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! products, as well
as autographed jerseys and other memorabilia. In addition to retail, it features a comfortable communal area with a sectional sofa and a large-screen TV, inviting visitors to hang out, watch sports, or play games.
Yellowhammer Cards & Gaming caters to all levels of collectors, offering everything from affordable packs for younger hobbyists to high-end items for serious enthusiasts. The store also provides appraisal services for those looking to evaluate their collections.
The shop is open Tuesday through Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m.; Friday from noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 12:30 to 5 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
For more information about the shop, go online to yellowhammer.cards.
When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries and innovations happening today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures. And it benefits not only the patients and families who come to Children’s of Alabama, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
Will Mason is the owner and CEO of Mason Music. Photo courtesy Mason Music.
Greystone Centre on U.S. 280. Staff photo.
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Patient-centered care without the hassle of corporate medicine
More and more American patients are growing weary of corporate medicine and are seeking out personalized, patient-centered care.
“People are frustrated with long wait times, rushed appointments and the feeling they’re just a number in a system,” says Dr. Karen Vines, a primary care physician in Hoover.
Not only that, but patients know what they need.
“They want a doctor who truly knows them, listens to them and takes the time to understand their health concerns,” Dr. Vines says.
That’s why Dr. Vines recently opened her own practice, Vines Concierge Medicine, on Valleydale Road after working at Grandview Medical Center for nearly a decade.
A Huntsville native, Dr. Vines earned her undergraduate and medical degrees at UAB and joined Grandview in 2016.
She’s one of the many U.S. doctors opening small, personalized boutique or concierge offices.
“Even physicians are looking for a better way to practice medicine — one where they can actually focus on their patients instead of being overwhelmed by a high-volume, assembly-line approach.”
Dr. Vines limits the size of her practice so she can devote more time to each patient during longer office visits.
“I thoroughly look into all of my patient’s physical ailments so I can weigh all of their treatment options,” she says.
She has extended office hours, and patients can easily make same- or next-day appointments. They also face little or no office waiting time.
To make this level of care possible, Vines Concierge Medicine – like other concierge practices — charges patients an annual membership fee which covers a range of amenities and benefits.
Karen Vines, MD
Importantly, unlike some other membership medicine practice, Vines Concierge Medicine accepts Medicare and traditional insurance. Office visits and labs are submitted to insurance, with patients responsible for any applicable copays or deductibles.
Patients at Vines Concierge Medicine enjoy direct communication with the staff during business hours, with only real people answering their calls. Patients can call after hours for urgent issues.
“One of the biggest frustrations I hear from patients is how hard it is to simply reach their doctor when they have a question,” Dr. Vines says. “They want direct availability to their physician — someone
they trust — to guide them in those moments of uncertainty.”
The longer office visits allow Dr. Vines to build strong relationships with her patients and to talk about maintaining healthy lifestyles.
“I’ve seen firsthand what happens when preventive care is overlooked,” she says. “Poor health outcomes, diminished quality of life and even premature death are often the consequences.”
Dr. Vines says she believes in a partnership with her patients.
“Patients understand their own bodies, so I listen carefully as they share their symptoms concerns and thoughts,” she says. “I treat each patient as an individual and collaborate with them to develop a treatment plan.”
Vines Concierge Medicine provides patients with continuity in care.
“Patients will always see me — not another physician or nurse practitioner,” she says.
Dr. Vines considers it a privilege to be able to care for her patients.
“I understand the immense trust they place in me to guide them, and I take that responsibility very seriously,” she says. “It’s incredibly gratifying to help patients improve their health and, in turn, their quality of life.”
Hoover Crime 2023 vs. 2024
SOURCE: HOOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT
Hoover had 11 robberies reported in 2024, up slightly from nine in 2023, but that’s still extremely low for the city’s population, Derzis said. In 2007, Hoover had 77 robberies, statistics show.
There was only one non-traffic homicide in Hoover in 2024, the first non-traffic homicide in the city in 26 months, Derzis said.
Total “Group A” offenses reported to the FBI were down 10%, from 4,002 offenses in 2023 to 3,612 in 2024, police said. Arrests were up 2%, from 3,036 to 3,083.
Most crime categories saw decreases from 2023 to 2024, including a 30% drop in burglaries, a 39% drop in vehicle thefts, a 24% drop in embezzlement and a 20% drop in vandalism.
The only crime categories with increases were domestic violence assaults (up 10% from 538 to 590), robberies (up 22% from nine to 11), pornography/obscene materials (up 67% from three to five cases), stolen property offenses (up 30% from 30 to 39) and extortion/blackmail (up 20% from five to six cases).
Derzis credited his police force with solid work in bringing down crime. “Our team works very, very hard every day,” he said.
He also thanked city leadership for providing the Police Department with tools to do their jobs and the public for partnering with police to help deter crimes and solve them when they happen.
“We have to depend on the community — when they see something, certainly to say something,” the chief said.
Recently, Ross Bridge residents saw people going through the neighborhood, checking door handles on vehicles. A call was made to police, and three people were arrested almost immediately, Derzis said.
New technology such as doorbell cameras and drones is also helping. The city now has 15 drones.
Hoover police last year gained the ability to
use a drone as a first responder within a 3-mile radius of Hoover City Hall — sometimes getting to the scene faster than a patrol officer could — and it has proven helpful, Derzis said. On one recent call, the drone arrived at a scene where people had started fighting, and they stopped when they saw it, he said. In another case, a drone helped officers quickly find a nonverbal child who had run away from home and hidden in the woods, Capt. Keith Czeskleba said.
New tools are helpful, but there’s no substitute for having good people doing their jobs well, Derzis said. “The bottom line is we know that having boots on the ground, having additional police officers seen, certainly has an effect on crime,” he said. “Unfortunately, the technology doesn’t put handcuffs on the bad guys. … We’ve got to have people.”
While the city’s population has risen 31%
A Hoover police officer shows the patch on his uniform. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
from about 70,727 in 2007 to 92,448 in 2023, the number of police calls has risen 161% from 49,247 in 2008 to 128,532 in 2024, Derzis said.
Another important factor in the crime drop is Hoover’s success at closing cases and making arrests, Derzis said.
“Regardless if it’s a large crime or a small crime, it doesn’t matter. We take it personally,” the chief said. “If we got a case, we’re putting you in jail for it.”
Of the 11 robberies reported last year, Hoover police cleared 10 of those cases, Czeskleba said. That means either an arrest or clearance due to some other exception, such as a victim in a drug-related incident being unwilling to cooperate, he said. In one of Hoover’s robberies, the person charged was killed in another incident in Birmingham, he said.
Clearance rates for burglaries and car breakins in Hoover also are well above national averages, Czeskleba said.
Hoover has developed a reputation for solving cases, Derzis said. “I think the public understands that, and I think the bad guys understand that.”
Czeskleba said police do their best to prevent crime, but it’s not a perfect world, and crime is going to happen. “When it does happen, our officers and detectives work incredibly hard to hold those responsible accountable for it,” he said.
One area in which police are still seeking the public’s help is securing firearms and locking doors. The number of firearms stolen in Hoover has been cut in half since a “lock it or lose it” campaign started in 2022, but it’s still happening, Derzis said.
“We lose guns every week in the city,” he said. “We don’t usually lose car phones because people will not put a car phone in their car and leave the door unlocked. They’ll leave the car unlocked and leave the handgun inside the glove compartment.”
THE REAL ESTATE REPORT
2024 Top Real Estate Agents in Hoover
“We truly enjoy working with one another,” Turner said. “We didn’t know one another prior to opening our first neighborhood together, so we are grateful for the foresight that our manager had to see that we would make a strong team. We genuinely support each other and collaborate on everything. If you know Nancy, you know how incredible she is. She is one of the kindest, strongest and most intelligent women I have ever had the privilege of working with. We both share the same goal of providing genuine care and support for our homeowners.”
Hale got her real estate license in 2017 and joined Signature Homes in 2018, when she and Turner became partners.
Turner has been a Realtor for seven years but has worked in the industry for 15.
“I have a younger brother who insisted that I get my real estate license,” Hale said. “His determination to convince me to take the leap, combined with my interest in different markets in the Birmingham area and an interest in design trends, led me to this fabulous career. I am an RN, so transitioning to real estate came naturally to me even though they are vastly different in so many ways. Listening closely to my customers’ needs, helping them problem-solve through the buying process and being adaptable with their goals in mind are skills that I use frequently, and I think I developed that while caring for patients.”
CAREER PATHS AND INSPIRATION
Turner first started at Signature Homes as a new home consultant, where she worked with guiding homeowners through the entire homebuilding experience.
This passion for helping homeowners inspired Turner to pursue her real estate license in 2018.
Turner’s career started in 2009, shortly after the economic downturn caused by the 2008 recession.
“While it was a tough time for many in the industry, Signature Homes was fortunate to have strong leadership,” Turner said. “Our owners, Dwight Sandlin and Jonathan Belcher, were able to plan ahead and position the company for the shifts that were taking place.”
Since both Turner and Hale started their careers in real estate, shifts in technology have helped their business “dramatically.”
“Along with advancements in smartphone technology and remote work technology like Zoom and Microsoft Teams that were crucial during the pandemic for us, social platforms have helped us,” Hale said. “It allows customers to know who we are and all that Signature Homes offers in our neighborhoods.”
ADVICE FOR NEW REALTORS
For those considering a career in real estate, Turner said she would encourage anyone to prioritize building strong relationships and to seek learning from others in the industry.
“Connect with agents you respect, don’t hesitate to ask questions, and find a mentor you trust,” Turner said. “The guidance and support I received from my mentor have been invaluable to my growth — not just as a Realtor, but also as an individual.”
Current trends in the market Hale and Turner are seeing include neighborhoods that are walkable and filled with exciting amenities and opportunities to connect with neighbors in meaningful ways.
“We are seeing a desire for new standards in design and functionality with an ability to work from home, create memories with loved ones and enjoy a relaxing space that supports an active and engaged lifestyle,” Hale said. “Signature Homes has an entire team of extraordinary people who work behind the scenes to create the vision that Jonathan and Dwight began years ago, and it is a privilege to be
Jefferson County Homeowners
able to share it with customers.”
HOOVER’S CHARM, GROWTH
Hale said Hoover is a true gem with modern charm and warm hospitality.
“It offers something for everyone — from the Hoover Library, the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, the Hoover Senior Center, community and public parks, as well as an outstanding school system,” Hale said. “We are close to all of the attractions that the greater Birmingham area offers, including museums, theaters and historical landmarks.”
While Turner and Hale admit there will always be challenges in the industry, they remain thankful that Hoover is a good location for all that the Birmingham-Hoover metropolitan area offers.
“A unique opportunity that we have is being an active adult community here in Primrose at Everlee,” Hale said. “It is a
privilege to be a part of Signature Homes’ vision of providing a neighborhood where lifestyle is the focus of adults who thrive on engagement with neighbors, meaningful activities and opportunities that nurture and strengthen connection.”
Turner said Hoover is an affordable area compared to larger cities like Atlanta and Nashville.
“I meet people daily relocating from all over the country, and Hoover consistently checks off so many of their must-haves,” Turner said. “Hoover is one of the fastest-growing metro cities, offering a perfect blend of suburban charm while still being just a short drive from Birmingham.”
Turner said one of the reasons she loves being a Realtor is because it allows her to serve others and create meaningful value in their lives.
“When people make a move, it often marks a significant milestone — whether it is a growing family, downsizing and becoming empty nesters, starting a new job, or retiring to be closer to loved ones,” Turner said. “Every client has their own unique reason for making a change, and it is an honor to be part of their journey and navigate the new seasons of their lives.”
As Turner and Hale continue to work together as a team, they remain committed to promoting their companywide message of “build a life with us.”
“Anyone can visit a Signature community and see firsthand our beautiful homes, but we want to build the foundation of a true neighborhood with strong connections, a feeling of togetherness where neighbors look out for each other, celebrate important milestones and share life together,” Hale said. “Sarah and I both want to treat our customers as they want to be treated, and we are committed to that. Sarah is exceptional at caring for our customers, and we have a mutual respect and are each other’s biggest cheerleader.”
SOURCE: GREATER ALABAMA MLS
Sarah Turner, left, and Nancy Hale in the Signature Homes model house at the new Everlee development in Hoover. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.
Art by Dori DeCamillis
THE REAL ESTATE REPORT
Staging your home for a quick sale
By SARAH OWENS
When moving, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is selling their home. With the real estate market slowing, homes aren’t selling as quickly as they did a year ago. That’s why it’s crucial for sellers to make their homes as appealing as possible to buyers.
That’s where home staging comes in, helping to highlight a home’s strengths, minimize its flaws and attract the right buyers.
Monica Kelley, owner of Monica Kelley Interiors and Staging in Hoover, shares her insights on how staging can impact home sales in the local market.
Q: What staging techniques work best to attract buyers in your market?
A: Creating rooms with earthy, neutral tones as a base and adding dashes of color in artwork and pillows — or even a painted accent wall — can really elevate and enhance a staged home, making it stand out from the rest. Most people don’t believe this, but well-arranged furniture that is the right scale for the space, along with rugs and décor, actually makes a room look significantly more spacious. It also helps buyers envision their own furniture in the space.
Q: How much should a homeowner budget for professional staging?
A: I personally like to walk through the home to get a better understanding of the size, style and what pieces will need to be pulled from the warehouse. That’s not always possible, so I will
sometimes request a walk-through video. I determine my pricing based on the amount of furniture to be used, how many rooms need staging, accessibility and distance. I have to account for inventory being out, my time and my movers’ time.
Q: What are the key differences between staged and unstaged homes in your market?
A: Today, the majority of buyers use online real estate platforms to search for their next home, which makes staging even more important in defining space. I have been doing this for many years, and even as a decorator, I find it
Staging a home can help to highlight a home’s strengths, minimize its flaws and attract the right buyers. Stock photo.
difficult to understand the layout and scale of the rooms just by looking at photographs of empty floor space and walls. Staged homes look more polished and fresh, creating a feeling of greater value. Staging also draws the eye away from small flaws and keeps buyers focused on envisioning their own lives and furniture in the space.
Q: How can curb appeal impact a buyer’s first impression, and what’s your advice for improving it?
A: You only have one chance to make a great first impression. Painting or pressure washing is always a good
idea. You want your house to look clean and free of cobwebs and piled-up leaves. It’s important to maintain a clean, fresh-looking lawn by removing old shrubs and adding mulch and a couple of flowering plants.
Q: Are there specific interior trends that resonate with buyers in your market right now?
A: I think using a neutral color base is classic, but I believe we will see more color added this year — whether through chairs, pillows or artwork — but not overdone. I also think we’ll see more natural, earthy elements incorporated.
Monica Kelley
Preparing to sell your home: Key advice from a local real estate agent
By CADY INABINETT
Preparing to sell your home can be a daunting and confusing process.
To provide clarity, local Realtor Harold Collins II of eXp Realty answered some key questions to consider when starting the selling process.
Q: How should homeowners determine the right time to sell their home?
A: The right time to sell largely depends on a homeowner’s particular situation. But as a general rule of thumb, we usually advise avoiding the period from Thanksgiving to the new year — at least a week or two into January.
Right now, the question may be when to sell because of where interest rates are. I tell people that if you are capable of purchasing and you’re planning to buy a home more expensive than your current one, then now is the time to purchase. But if you are selling your home to buy a less expensive one, I would say wait until rates come down.
Q: What factors should sellers consider when choosing a real estate agent?
A: One of the biggest things, to me, is trust. If you can’t trust the person who is helping you with what, for most people, is the largest investment they’ll sell in their lifetime, then that’s probably not a good fit.
Q: What are the pros and cons of selling by owner versus using an agent?
A: As I mentioned, for most people, selling a home is the most expensive
transaction they’ll ever make. Trying to do it yourself without a professional’s help — especially when it comes to negotiating — could end up costing you thousands of dollars.
I’ve seen several owners underprice their homes by $30,000 to $50,000. That’s a significant amount of money. A good agent helps keep the deal together and ensures that everyone involved is satisfied with how it turns out.
Q: What advice do you give sellers about pricing their home competitively?
A: A lot of times, people think, “My home is worth $600,000, so I’ll price it at $605,000 and negotiate down to $600,000 to give myself some wiggle room.”
But by doing that, you may eliminate an entire group of potential buyers searching in a specific price range. For example, buyers often search in increments — $550,000, $570,000, $600,000, $625,000, $650,000. By pricing at $605,000, you’re now being compared to homes in the $625,000-and-under range.
Meanwhile, buyers looking at homes up to $600,000 — who might have been willing to spend that full amount — don’t even see your listing. That larger audience creates competition, which can drive up the price. If you overprice at $605,000, you miss out on that competition, and buyers may not be as eager to make an offer. Let the buyers bid themselves up.
Margi Ingram, Ingram & Associates
With real estate inventory at historic lows and demand remaining high, local buyers and sellers need to be strategic as they navigate the 2025 market. Margi Ingram, president of Ingram & Associates Realtors, shares her expert insights on what buyers and sellers should know this year.
For first-time homebuyers, Ingram emphasizes that working with a knowledgeable professional is essential.
“The best advice that you could have for a first-time homebuyer is to reach out to a Realtor to teach them every step of the process, from financing to closing,” she said.
Understanding the financial side of homebuying can make the process smoother and prevent costly mistakes.
Sellers, too, should turn to local expertise to determine the best listing price.
“In order to determine the correct price for you to sell your home in today’s market, you should reach out to a Realtor who is familiar with your local market in your neighborhood and get a plan for selling,” Ingram said.
Proper pricing ensures a home
attracts the right buyers quickly.
For those considering putting their home on the market, Ingram urges early planning.
“A Realtor will give you a personalized expert plan for how to sell your home,” she said.
A well-prepared home can make all the difference in a competitive market.
Looking ahead, Ingram predicts that home prices will continue to rise due to low inventory, while interest rates are likely to remain relatively stable.
“Rates may decrease slightly, but not significantly, in 2025 and 2026,” she said.
A respected leader in Birmingham real estate, Ingram was inducted into the National Association of Realtors RPAC Hall of Fame in 2024 and has more than 30 years of experience in the metro market.
Margi Ingram is the president of Ingram & Associates Realtors, located at 1900 28th Ave., Suite 105, Homewood, AL 35209. She can be contacted at 205-871-5360 or via email at mingram@ingramnew homes.com. Learn more online at ingramnewhomes.com.
Mountain Brook Village is a beautiful place to call home, but there were very few (if any) new homes available…until now!
Chester Court is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to call this area home. Enjoy shopping, dining, banking, and entertainment at your doorstep.
Select your homesite, choose your home style, and connect with a small, handpicked group of Alabama’s premier builders. Find your new dream home today at Chester Court.
Margi Ingram
Harold Collins II
Home sales surge in Hoover with growing confidence
By JON ANDERSON
Home sales in Hoover climbed 14% in 2024, but that didn’t mean a strong year for everyone in the housing industry.
In fact, it was a difficult year for many as the inventory of homes for sale remained small, interest rates stayed high, lenders tightened credit requirements, and some real estate agents scrambled for customers.
“It was literally the worst year of my career,” said Jordan Hosey, the owner of HBH Realty. “There was uncertainty in the national economy. Consumer confidence was just really, really terrible. … I think a key driving factor of that was just the high mortgage rates.”
Thirty-year fixed mortgage rates hovered around 7% for much of the year, and more than half of borrowers have rates lower than 4%, according to Realtor.com.
“People just don’t want to come off their property,” Hosey said. “A lot of times, it doesn’t make sense for them to sell their house and buy a new one or upgrade because their mortgage, in some cases, will double, if not triple.”
Some people can manage that, but it’s difficult with the rising cost of living in other areas, she said.
The number of homes sold in Hoover in 2024 climbed from 1,421 in 2023 to 1,644 in 2024, but the vast majority of that increase was in new home sales, which rose 80% from 255 in 2023 to 460 in 2024, according to statistics from the Greater Alabama Multiple Listing Service. Existing home sales in Hoover rose just 1.5%, from 1,166 to 1,184.
Signature Homes, which sold 357 homes last year, accounted for 78% of all new home sales in Hoover, CEO Jonathan Belcher said.
More than half of those — 187 — were townhomes in Everlee in western Hoover and Windsor Court in eastern Hoover near Meadow Brook.
With interest rates rising, Signature Homes began building townhouses as a more affordable option, and that will continue in 2025, Belcher said. Signature expects to sell about 100 townhomes in Everlee in 2025, along with about 160 other homes in Everlee, he said.
A new offering for Signature this year is condominiums restricted to people age 55 and older. There are plans for 300 age-restricted condos in Everlee, and the first 43 of those hit the market in February, Belcher said.
Signature Homes also sold 77 homes in Blackridge in 2024 and expects to sell that many or slightly more in Blackridge in 2025, he said. Other companies are building new homes in places such as The Preserve, Lake Wilborn, Smith Farms, and Spencer Preserve in Bluff Park.
Hoover has a two-month supply of new homes for sale and a 1½-month supply of existing homes, while the Birmingham market as a whole has a three-month supply, Belcher said. The limited inventory of homes in Hoover has helped prices remain strong, with the average home costing $506,171, MLS statistics show.
Belcher said he doesn’t foresee interest rates coming down meaningfully this year and thinks sellers and buyers realize that, too, and may be more willing to jump into the market. He considers the market to be healthy.
Hosey said she’s already seeing signs of renewed interest, such as a rise in mortgage applications, stronger consumer confidence, and more listings by sellers.
First-time homebuyers in Hoover face challenges, opportunities
By TAYLOR BRIGHT
Of all the areas for first-time homebuyers in the Birmingham metro area, Hoover may just be the most accessible, but not without challenges.
According to Mandy Williams, a real estate agent with Keller Williams Homewood, affordability and financing options are key factors influencing buyers in the area.
“Most first-time homebuyers are probably looking more in lower price ranges,” Williams said. “But that being said, there are exceptions. Some buyers are able to afford more expensive areas.”
For those looking for affordability and available inventory, Hoover might be the best option.
“There is even more opportunity for first-time homebuyers in Hoover,” Williams said. “It’s just a matter of inventory. There are more homes
available at entry-level price points compared to Homewood or Vestavia.”
First-time homebuyers looking in Homewood may find limited inventory and high prices a barrier, she said.
“Homewood is a particularly challenging area because it’s a landlocked community,” Williams explained. “There just aren’t a whole lot of houses for sale at any given time, and those that are listed under $500,000 tend to fly off the market in just a few days.”
While affordability is a major factor, financing options have evolved in recent years. Williams emphasized the importance of working with a local lender.
“That’s something that I highly recommend, working with a local lender and not just whoever you find on the internet,” she said. “Local lenders typically have more access to
government-funded programs, especially for first-time homebuyers. There are now conventional programs that allow for far less than the traditional 20% down payment, some as low as 5% and occasionally even 0%.”
Not only is the lender a factor to consider, but the type of financing. Sellers often have preferences when it comes to loan types, with cash offers and conventional loans being more attractive to sellers.
“Some sellers choose not to accept VA or FHA loans because they have stricter inspection requirements and longer processing times,” Williams said. “That being said, I am a huge supporter of our veterans, and I work with a program called Homes for Heroes, which offers cash back to buyers and sellers who qualify.”
Williams stressed the importance of being financially prepared and choosing the right
professionals to guide the process.
“Number one, know what you can afford,” she said. “Get a pre-approval from a lender with a strong reputation. Some lenders have better track records, and when a seller sees a pre-approval letter from a lender with a solid reputation, that can make a difference in getting your offer accepted.”
In addition, having an experienced real estate agent is critical. “You don’t want an agent who’s never sold a home in the area you’re looking at,” she said. “Having someone who knows the market can give you a competitive edge.”
Finally, first-time buyers should budget for additional costs beyond the mortgage. “You need extra funds for inspections, appraisals, and potential repairs,” Williams said. “It’s worth it in the long run to fully understand what you’re getting into before you close on a home.”
UAB MEDICINE AND ST. VINCENT’S
Summer theatre camps at Red Mountain Theatre
The summer camps hosted by Red Mountain Theatre, scheduled for May 27-Aug. 1, give kids of all ages and skill levels an amazing outlet to use their creativity and imagination in dramatic ways.
Whether it’s one of our littlest actors stepping on stage for the first time or high schoolers honing their skills for the next big step, camps help kids with so much more than just singing and dancing. They’re about teamwork, discipline, confidence and friendship, as well as a lot of fun.
Most camps end with short performances in which students can show off what they’ve learned for family and friends.
In addition, the Teaching Artists at Red Mountain Theatre are highly skilled instructors who have both practical theatre and teaching experience. They meet exacting safety and learning standards to provide students with a secure environment in which to learn, grow and express themselves.
Most camps take place on the Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus, located at 1600 Third Ave. S. in Birmingham, but there’s something new this year.
For the first time Red Mountain Theatre will also take its show on the road for two weeks of camps at Thompson High School in Alabaster and the Community Center in Chelsea.
Check out the wide array of options available to young campers this summer:
► Play Making (Ages 4-6): Budding artists let their imaginations run wild while they explore theatrical storytelling. These half-day classes in the morning or afternoon
teach inventiveness, collaboration and creativity using familiar characters, such as Ariel, Spiderman or Bluey.
► Triple Threats (Ages 6-8): Campers become “triple threats” by working on their singing, dancing and acting skills. During the week, students learn 3-5 production numbers to be performed at the end of the
week for an audience of friends and family. Songs are chosen from the pop charts, Broadway musicals and Disney movies.
► Theme Camps (Ages 7-12): In this fun-filled week, students will learn basic theatre fundamentals and create original characters while exploring a familiar book or movie world. Whether it’s Hogwarts, Narnia,
WHEN:
AGES:
CALL:
WEB: redmountaintheatre.org/
Arendelle, the MCU, or fantasy lands, these themes will come to life through all kinds of creative play.
► Blast Camps (Ages 9-14): Blast Camps are fun, week-long camps that put musical theatre performance skills to the test. Over the week, students rehearse a short script, including choreography and production numbers. At the end, they’ll perform for a supportive audience of family and friends.
► Summer Intensives (Ages 12-18): For students who love musical theatre and want to hone skills. Intensives will allow campers to dive deep into a specific element of performance, including auditions, focused work and college applications for musical theatre programs.
The camp cost ranges from $156 to $450 for half- and full-day camps. Financial aid is available for all who qualify. Extended care options and lunch plans can be added on.
The summer camps fill up quickly so don’t delay. For details and registration, call 205-324-2424 or go to redmountain theatre.org/summer-camps-2025.
Learning has never been so WILD!
Birmingham Zoo
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure with the Birmingham Zoo! Campers can explore their wild side with up-close animal meet-and-greets or dive into skills for a career in nature conservation.
Zoo Camp (ages 5-11)
Zoo Camp offers fun and fantastic options for our youngest learners who are out of school on much-needed breaks during spring, summer, fall, and winter. Single day and week-long experiences include zoo tours, up close meet-and-greets with animals, unique learning opportunities about nature and conservation, games, crafts, and more! Zoo campers will spend their days exploring ways humanity impacts wildlife, how animals survive and thrive in their environments, and uncovering the mysteries and legends of the wild world.
Conservation & Careers (ages 12-17)
Conservation & Careers is a brand new adventure offering exceptional opportunities for teens during the summer. This engaging experience gives teens the chance to learn about careers in zoos, aquariums, and nature conservation while interacting with Birmingham Zoo leaders and building skills to jumpstart their own future. During the week, discussions, activities, and learning will focus on efforts within the conservation field here at home and around the world. Teens will have a chance to research and develop meaningful projects that highlight the local and global wildlife conservation efforts with which they connect. At the end of the week, students will
WHERE: Birmingham Zoo
WHEN: May 27-Aug. 1
AGES: 5-17
COST: $357-$480 (Financial assistance is available)
CALL: 205-879-0409 ext. 4
WEB: birminghamzoo.com
present their project to zoo guests! Go to birminghamzoo.com to sign up your student today for Zoo Camp or Conservation & Careers!
Explore your icky, sticky, slimy world
Fresh Air Family
If it’s icky, sticky, slimy and fun — it’s Gross Out Camp!
Slimy salamanders, slugs, bugs, worms and roly polies are all found as children explore their world. Gross Out Camp, a program of Fresh Air Family, delivers award-winning science through the icky and sticky elements of nature. The camps get children outside into their native habitat where they participate in activities geared to make kids smarter and more resilient. Campers learn through a combination of creeks, woods, fields, a live animal show and nature-based science experiments. As the slogan says “It’s science, but please don’t tell the kids.”
“Our goal is to teach critical thinking. Science provides a structure for developing logic and good decision making,” said Verna Gates, founder and executive director of Fresh Air Family.
The camps run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an option of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Campers are entering first through fourth grade, with a counselor-in-training option for fifth through seventh grade students. Camps in the Birmingham-area include: Oak Mountain State Park, Trussville, Homewood, McCallum Park in Vestavia, the Village at Cook Springs and Camp Fletcher in Bessemer. Financial aid is available.
“We have never turned a child away because they couldn’t pay. We make a way,” said Gates.
Best of all — they guarantee tired, dirty children!
Founded in 2006, Fresh Air Family has served thousands of children in camps, weekend adventures and school field trips. To learn more, go to freshairfamily.org and grossoutcamp.org.
WHEN: May 2 7-Aug. 1; Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. option also available)
AGES: Students entering grades 1-4 plus a counselor-in-training option for students in grades 5-7
COST: $187-$375 (Financial aid is available)
CALL: 205-540-6642
WEB: freshairfamily.org and grossoutcamp.org.
Spring Break and Summer Camps registrations at your Birmingham Zoo are now open! Children from 5 to 11 will experience up close encounters with Zoo animals, participate in unique learning opportunities about nature and conservation, plus enjoy games, crafts, tours and more. Also check out our NEW! Conservation & Careers summer experience for teens ages 12-17. Details at www.birminghamzoo.com.
Community calendar
ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION
► Where: Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Road
► When: March 1, 8-11 a.m.
► Call: 205-739-6558
► Web: aldridgegardens.com
► Cost: Free
► Details: This event at Aldridge Gardens organized by the Hoover Beautification Board includes a tree giveaway for Hoover residents, activities and crafts for children (including a variety of educational vendors), a Southern Coffee & Waffles food truck and the Hoover Public Library bookmobile. Trees to be given out include baldcypress, river birch, overcup oak, blackgum, hazelnut, sweetbay magnolia, sugar maple, red mulberry and Eastern redbuds. Trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
BLUFF PARK MARDI GRAS PARADE
► Where: Streets of Bluff Park
► When: March 1, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
► Call: 205-451-9858
► Web: krewedebluff.my.canva.site
► Cost: $50 to participate in parade
► Details: This parade with floats, beads and “Mardi Gras magic” will begin at the Bluff Park Community Park at 517 Cloudland Drive, proceed west on Hawksbury Lane, turn left onto Maiden Lane (which becomes Clearview Road) and left into Bluff Park Village, ending with an after-party at The Electric at 2146 Tyler Road, Suite 212. The after-party will include vendors, live music and food. Organized by Blake Shultz, Harold Collins and Cody Perry.
PINK PALACE CASINO NIGHT
► Where: Soiree Event Gallery, 2132 Lornaridge Lane
► When: March 1, 7-10:30 p.m.
► Call: 205-413-4600
► Web: pinkpalacecasinonight.com
► Tickets: $100
► Details: This is a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. Tickets include heavy hors d’oeuvres by Kathy G. & Co., complimentary beer and wine (cash bar also available), $500 in “charity money” for Vegas-style casino games, a silent auction and live music by II Da Maxx. Casino games include blackjack, poker, roulette, craps and slots. The silent auction includes a Taylor Swift Eras Tour limited edition autographed electric guitar. Last year’s event raised more than $140,000.
ALABAMA SWAT FOUNDATION 5.56K RUCK
► Where: Brock’s Gap Brewing Co., 500 Mineral Trace, Suite 100
► Details: This 3.45-mile race can be run with a weighted backpack or vest or without. The race begins at Brock’s Gap Brewery, loops around Black Creek Mountain Biking Park and finishes back at the brewery. It’s a night race, requiring a headlamp or flashlight. It’s a fundraiser for the Alabama SWAT Foundation, which supports the training of law enforcement tactical teams and individual team members.
Looking for more community events?
► Visit our online calendar at hooversun.com for more events.
► Subscribe to our newsletter for top picks on weekend events.
JUDY M. MERRITT MEMORIAL 5K & FAMILY FUN DAY
► Where: Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road
► When: March 15, 9 a.m.
► Web: jeffersonstate.edu/5k
► Cost: $25 if register Feb. 15-March 14; $30 on March 15; $15 for college students and ages 18 and younger
► Details: This 11th annual 5K is held at Veterans Park in memory of former Jefferson State Community President Judy Merritt. Proceeds benefit college scholarships for needy Jeff State students. Medals to top three male and female overall and top males and females in age groups. The day also includes a disc jockey, inflatables, face painting and free popcorn, cotton candy and other treats.
BEEF O’BRADY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION
► Where: Beef O’Brady’s, 5519 Grove Blvd.
► When: March 15, 11 a.m. to midnight
► Call: 205-987-9464
► Web: beefobradys.com/hoover
► Tickets: $20
► Details: A celebration of Irish culture, food, music and dancing. Attendees are invited to wear their greenest outfits and listen to live bands on a stage in the parking lot. The scheduled music lineup includes Robert Abernathy, OPOV Band, Love Chyld and Outshine. Special food offered will include corn bread and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips. Beef O’Brady’s also will offer a QR code for Uber service. This is the 15th anniversary for the restaurant.
Have an upcoming community event?
► Contact Community Editor Jon Anderson with your event information at janderson@starnesmedia.com
GREAT GOLDEN GATHERING
► Where: Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road
► When: March 16, 1-5 p.m.
► Call: 205-410-1244
► Web: adoptagoldenbirmingham.com
► Cost: Free
► Details: Adopt A Golden Birmingham is inviting golden retriever owners to bring their dogs for a golden retriever party that includes giveaways, trainer tips, food trucks and a group photo at 2:30 p.m. Dogs that were adopted from Adopt a Golden Birmingham and their owners will have an additional reunion and photo shoot at 3 p.m. Owners whose golden retrievers have died are invited to bring a photo in remembrance. All dogs must be leashed, vaccinated and friendly to new people and other dogs.
MÁIRÉAD NESBITT IN CONCERT
► Where: Hoover Library Theatre, 200 Municipal Drive
► When: March 20-21, 7 p.m.
► Call: 205-444-7888
► Web: thelibrarytheatre.com/nesbitt
► Tickets: $38
► Details: Hailed as “a demon of a fiddle player” by The New York Times, Grammy-nominated and Emmy-nominated artist and composer Máiréad Nesbitt has played to millions around the world as the featured violinist and founding member of the globetrotting Celtic Woman. Máiréad is the featured soloist in Disney’s newest Epcot show “Harmonious Live” on Disney+, is a featured soloist in “Rock Me Amadeus” and has performed at both the White House and the Pentagon for four U.S. presidents.
SPORTS
Buccaneers march to 4th straight state indoor sweep
By KYLE PARMLEY
Hoover High School extended its reign over track and field in Alabama, winning both the boys and girls Class 7A team titles for the fourth consecutive year at the Birmingham CrossPlex on Jan. 31.
Hoover ran away with victory on both the boys and girls sides. The boys team accumulated 137.5 points, well ahead of the 95.5 points accrued by Vestavia Hills. The Bucs also edged the Rebels in the girls competition, scoring 108.5 to Vestavia’s 61.
“I’m extremely proud of this group,” Hoover coach Chris Schmidt said. “This classification is really strong, it’s always going to be a battle.”
SPRINTERS AND HURDLERS SHINE
The Bucs’ sprinters delivered standout performances, led by senior DeMarion Gardner, who placed third in the 60-meter dash with a personal-best time of 6.89 seconds. Sophomore Jordan Williams finished seventh in 7.00 seconds.
In the girls 60 meters, senior Taylor Canada placed third in 7.60 seconds.
Hoover also excelled in the 60-meter hurdles, with sophomore Christopher Lawley winning the boys title in 8.09 seconds, while Jeremiah Tabb finished seventh with a personal-best 8.59.
Freshman Gideon Newton ran well in the 400 meters, finishing second in 48.44 seconds. Junior Jameson Coleman placed third in 48.53.
Junior Daisy Luna won the girls 400-meter title in 55.55 seconds, with Grier Jones placing seventh in 58.99.
DISTANCE EVENTS AND RELAYS
In the 800 meters, Hoover athletes delivered strong performances, with Ian Chatterton finishing second in 1 minute, 55.17 seconds, and Benny
Schmidt placing third in 1:55.62. Chatterton also picked up points by placing fifth in the 1,600.
Hoover’s depth was on full display in the distance events and relays, where the Bucs set two state records:
► The boys 4x400-meter relay (Newton, Christian August, Coleman, Gardner) finished in 3:16.71, a state record and the No. 4 time nationally.
► The girls 4x400-meter relay (Jones, Green, Luna, Canada) won in 3:52.98, a state record and the No. 6 time nationally.
Other notable relay finishes included:
► The boys 4x800 relay (Chatterton, Benny Schmidt, Burns, Burgess) placed second in 8:01.30.
► The girls 4x200 relay (Jones, Luna, Canada,
Settles) won in 1:40.98.
► The boys 4x200 relay finished third.
► The girls 4x800 relay placed fifth.
In the distance races, senior Ava Sparks won the 3,200 meters in 11:10.23, while teammate Amelia Vann placed third with a personal-best 11:17.99. Catherine Wallace (5:08.61) and Sparks (5:08.68, personal best) finished second and third, respectively, in the 1,600 meters.
Thomas Sheek finished third in the boys 3,200.
STRONG SHOWINGS IN FIELD EVENTS
Hoover’s success extended into the field events. Seniors Omari Bryant and Norman Settles finished first and second, respectively, in the pole vault, clearing 14 feet, 6 inches.
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Sophomore Nigel Thomas won the boys shot put with a personal-best throw of 57 feet, 8 inches, while junior Damian Reese claimed the triple jump title with a mark of 46-1.5. Langston Smith finished seventh in the shot put, and Tabb was seventh in the triple jump.
“That was a huge moment,” Schmidt said of Thomas’ performance.
Hunter Purdue took third in the long jump, while August finished fourth in the high jump.
On the girls side, junior Nyel Settles won the high jump at 5-4, with Stevey Gilmore finishing seventh. Senior Isabella Maple took the pole vault title with a clearance of 11-6, while Lucy Benoit placed sixth.
Sydnie Broom placed second, and Kaitlyn Cox was fifth in the shot put.
Left: Hoover girls 4x400m relay team celebrate their win during the AHSAA indoor track and field championships at the Birmingham CrossPlex on Jan. 31. Right: Hoover’s Nigel Thomas throws the shotput during the championships. Photos by Savannah Schmidt.
SPORTS
Young Bucs ready to grow into new roles
By KYLE PARMLEY
The Hoover High School softball team has been on an elite run of late.
In three of the last four years, the Buccaneers have finished among the top four at the Class 7A state tournament. They built on a fourth-place finish in 2021 to earn third-place results at the 2023 and 2024 state tournaments.
The Bucs have a unique challenge ahead of them if they hope to repeat that success. Hoover had a large and productive senior class last season. There will be many new faces on the field this spring, and the returning players will be asked to step into more pivotal roles.
“It’s going to be different than what we’ve seen the past couple years,” Hoover head coach Trey Matlock said.
The only seniors on the 2025 roster are twins Lindsey and Haley Westhoven, who recently signed to play at the University of North Alabama. Lindsey Westhoven is a catcher, her leadership being utilized in many ways on and off the field. Haley Westhoven will anchor the pitching staff this season, with the left-hander also contributing in the lineup.
“Their competitiveness will fire everybody up, and they’ll get the young ones going,” Matlock said. “They’ve been part of the runs that we’ve had in the past.”
Also returning with significant varsity experience are infielders Mollie Hanson, Ava Hartman and Avi Davis.
Hanson will likely play third base for the Bucs this spring but can catch as well. She recently committed to play at Berry College after emerging last spring and putting together a strong offseason. Hanson was one of only three players to homer off Daphne’s
Vic Moten, the Class 7A Player of the Year in 2024.
Davis and Hartman are likely to play on the right side of the infield, but both have the versatility to play multiple spots.
“A year under their belt was good for them,” Matlock said of all three. “Hopefully they can continue to grow from last year and do well when we need them.”
Haley Westhoven will be supported by two middle school pitchers, Caroline Chaney and Aaliyah Hayes. Matlock said all three will see “a lot of innings.”
A breakout candidate is Avery Chaney, a sophomore who can play middle infield or outfield. She got some varsity time last year and will become a regular this season. Cheyenne Conner will be in the mix in the outfield, as will newcomer Regan Lawson, who moved to Hoover this year.
Hailey Nichols transferred to Hoover from Spain Park. She gives the Bucs another catcher and a versatile option. Brianna Morales and Hadley Williams will contribute this spring as well.
One of Matlock’s favorite things about this roster is its flexibility. It’s more about “finding the right pieces of the puzzle,” since so many players have the versatility to play multiple positions.
“It’s going to be a learning curve early in the year,” Matlock said.
The Bucs play in a competitive area, featuring reigning state champion Hewitt-Trussville, along with Vestavia Hills and Oak Mountain in Class 7A, Area 6.
Hoover also takes on Spain Park, Gardendale, Hamilton, Chelsea, McAdory, Helena, Mountain Brook and Hazel Green in a tough schedule.
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Hoover’s Lindsey Westhoven (20) during a game between Auburn and Hoover in April 2024 at Jim Brown Field in Hoover. Photo by Kyle Parmley.
Jags eager to make another postseason push
By KYLE PARMLEY
The Spain Park High School softball team has been one of the top programs in Alabama for over a decade, and the Jags will look to continue performing at that level in 2025.
The Jags saw their journey conclude with a state tournament appearance last spring, and they are hoping the experiences gained from that will benefit them this time around.
“This team is excited about the upcoming season,” Spain Park head coach Allyson Ritenour said. “They have worked extremely hard during this preseason. They are a very motivated group of individuals.”
Experience is something Spain Park possesses plenty of entering this season, after having some young players be forced into the lineup in recent years.
“One of our strengths right now is that a majority of our players have competed at the varsity level and are returning this year with more experience,” Ritenour said. “Having a competitive schedule over the past few years has helped them develop and learn what it takes to compete at a high level.”
There are three seniors on this year’s team, leading the charge to establish the culture and expectations for the upcoming season.
Charlee Bennett is a middle infielder who has signed to play at UAB. She has been an integral part of the Jags’ attack for several seasons now, and possesses the offensive and defensive instincts to be elite.
“She is so much fun to coach because she brings such positive energy and passion to the game,” Ritenour said.
Tatum Lasseter returns, as does Nylah Cottrell. Lasseter was a key hitter in the lineup last season and will be yet again. Cottrell is an outfielder who will get a chance to show off her
strength and skill set this year.
“They have really embraced each other and have taken ownership of our team’s culture,” Ritenour said. “One of our biggest focuses this offseason was our approach to hitting as well as being more consistent and intentional with our training.”
There are several other players back this spring that will look to take the next step forward. Sophomore pitcher Jaley Young will be a reliable presence in the circle, while junior infielders Allie Whitaker, Klara Thompson
and Teagan Huey are all back. Sophomore outfielder Reagan Roberts and eighth grade catcher Chloe Wade will be key players as well.
Abby King is a sophomore outfielder and pitcher who moved to Spain Park this school year.
Ritenour said the execution up and down the lineup, along with the team’s pitching depth, will be critical factors to the team success this year. She also wants to use the early portions of the season to ensure that her players get opportunities to succeed and grow in a variety of
situations.
Spain Park opened the season at the Red & Blue Classic, hosted by Vestavia Hills. The Jags host their own tournament, and play in other tournaments hosted by Wetumpka, Auburn, Central-Phenix City and Hoover.
The Jags play in a Class 6A area featuring Chelsea, Pelham and Helena. They also have regular season matchups against Hoover, Jasper, Vestavia Hills, White Plains, Thompson, Austin, Helena, Springville, Hewitt-Trussville and Moody.
Spain Park’s Charlee Bennett (16) during a Sidney Cooper Invitational game in February 2024 at South Commons Softball Complex in Columbus, Georgia.
Photo by Kyle Parmley.
Talented roster gives Bucs high hopes
By KYLE PARMLEY
Hoover High School has one of the most talented baseball rosters in the state.
That alone, however, won’t win games — especially with baseball talent in the Birmingham area at an all-time high, according to Hoover coach Adam Moseley.
“The next two years are going to be obnoxious in terms of talent,” Moseley said.
The Bucs return plenty from a team that went 27-19 and advanced to the second round of the Class 7A playoffs. Six players have already committed to play college baseball, with more expected to follow over the next year or two.
“I like our talent,” Moseley said. “It’s the guys you want to see grow from year to year, and if they do, we’ve got a chance to do some good things.”
Seniors William Andre (Samford signee), Ian Campbell (Gadsden State) and Chase Lawley (Richmond) will anchor the pitching rotation. Sidearmer Emerson Milligan and Brady Sheppard (Northwest-Shoals) are expected to be key relievers.
Atticus Barton and Baylor Hardy, both seniors, return this year after missing time due to injuries.
The junior class is also loaded with talent.
LSU commit Will Adams, who has participated with Team USA, will be one of Hoover’s top players. He will pitch and play first base. Fellow junior Max Crowder will also be a key pitcher.
Jaxson Wood, a Tennessee commit, returns at shortstop. Jonah Winston is competing for playing time at second base or in the outfield. He is beginning to receive Division I offers in both baseball and football.
Kyle Sanderson has impressed in the outfield during preseason practices, and Moseley said several other players are talented enough to contribute.
“Let’s see what they can do,” he said. “We’ve got
some guys that can do it.”
One of the things that stands out most to Moseley is how his players and coaches have handled personal tragedy over the past year.
“There’s just a cohesiveness,” Moseley said. “They’ve experienced multiple tragedies, come through it on the other side and compete together as a group. There’s a really strong bond in that locker room.”
Moseley also expressed gratitude for the way other programs across the state have supported Hoover baseball.
“I wish I could express how much all that means to our coaches, but it shows what kind of coaches we have in Alabama,” he said. “With all that we’ve dealt with, we’ve seen good things from really good people.”
Diana S. Knight, CPA, CVA Jeff W. Maze, CPA, MA Jason Lybrand, CPA, MBA
Above: Hoover’s Will Adams (8) runs down the first base line in game three of a first-round Class 7A playoff series against Hewitt-Trussville at Phil English Field in April 2024.
Right: Hoover’s William Andre (18) pitches. Staff photos.
Jags retooling in 2025
By KYLE PARMLEY
In many ways, the Spain Park High School baseball team is starting over this spring.
The roster has a robust group of seniors, but not many of them have been leaders on the varsity squad to this point in their careers.
But what those seniors have seen the past few years is the Jaguars winning a lot of games and making the playoffs the last couple of seasons.
“You hope that them being around it and experiencing it, they’re ready,” Spain Park head coach Will Smith said.
The senior with the most returning experience is Patrick McQueeney, who will be
looked upon to be a top pitcher for the Jags. He progressed enough last season to start one of the playoff games in their first-round series against Thompson.
The only full-time starter back for Spain Park is Rhys Jones, who will move to shortstop this year as a junior.
Several seniors have stood out to Smith in the lead-up to the season in their quest for playing time. Arnold Bush is a speedster in the outfield. Trevor Julich and Jack Millard are both senior catchers.
Eli Smallwood at first base, Jack Sellers at second, and Andrew Thornton and Hagen Holley in the outfield have been impressive as well.
Junior Logan Bradford and sophomore Connor Greb have been battling at third base.
Junior Joe Cross is also in the mix in the outfield, with junior Ryne Paquette competing in the infield.
Jack Lutenbacher is a junior who plays catcher and first base.
Greb is part of a talented group of sophomores that Smith expects to push the upperclassmen. Evan Taylor and Slade Bounds have bright futures as well.
“I’d love to have it like last year, where we have a full roster [of seniors in the lineup], but they’re going to have to step up and compete for spots,” Smith said.
In addition to McQueeney, Charlie Kramer
and Max Vinson are seniors who will be counted on for big innings. Wesley Williams, Bryce Campbell and Connor Kinney are all seniors who will be given a shot to prove they are ready.
“Most of them have never had to do it before, so I’m curious to see how much competitive spirit is in those guys,” Smith said. “The sophomore class and freshman class are very talented. They’ll have some good younger guys that are pushing them for sure.” Spain Park has moved down to Class 6A this season and will play in an area with Chelsea, Pelham and Helena. That does not make things much easier than when the Jags were competing in 7A.
Far left: Spain Park's Rhys Jones (5) holds back on swing at a pitch during a game against Oxford in February at Spain Park High School.
Left: Spain Park’s Rhys Jones (5) throws the ball to first in hopes of getting an out. Photos by Richard Force.
Faces of Hoover
Claire
Vrinkeroff
bites into the 2025 Girl Scout cookie season
By SAVANNAH SCHMIDT
Claire Vrinkeroff has been a Girl Scout for five years, progressing from a Daisy to a Brownie and now a Junior. For her, one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience is selling cookies.
Vrinkeroff says the best part about being a Girl Scout during cookie season is “doing booths with my friends and doing cookie sales and calling people I hadn’t talked to in a while.”
During a recent sales event, Vrinkeroff discovered that math, when used in a real-life context, can “actually be fun.” Though math may not be her favorite subject, she recognizes how essential it is for managing her cookie sales. Each season, she creates a call list and walks her neighborhood with her parents.
“Every year I’ve done a lot of cookie sales, I’ve reached my goal, and I’ve gone way over,” Vrinkeroff said.
Beyond sales, Girl Scouts has provided Vrinkeroff with a sense of belonging. With an older brother at home, she enjoys having a space to bond with girls her age.
“Being a Girl Scout helps me be a better friend and person,” she said.
Her favorite cookie? The new Adventurefuls, though Thin Mints remain a classic favorite.
Claire Vrinkeroff tries cookies at the Girl Scouts DreamLab in Vestavia Hills on Jan. 25. Photos by Savannah Schmidt.
Embarking on a transformation and a new community mission
By TIM STEPHENS
There’s no sugarcoating it: I’m starting this journey at 280 pounds. As a former athlete who has spent years around college and professional sports, I’ve often joked that I’m an All-American at losing weight and a Hall-ofFamer at gaining it back … with a little extra.
But this time, it’s different. This time, it’s about more than a number on the scale. It’s about creating a permanent transformation and using my story as a launching point to inspire others.
Welcome to 56-for-56: A Transformation Story. My mission is simple: to lose 56 pounds by my 56th birthday on July 12, 2025. But here’s the thing — this isn’t just about me. It’s about you.
As general manager and editor-in-chief of Starnes Media, I’ve seen firsthand the power of storytelling to bring people together, spark change and inspire action. That’s why 56-for56 is just the first chapter of something much bigger: The Transformation Project.
Through The Transformation Project, we’ll explore and spotlight inspiring stories of transformation happening right here in our communities. These aren’t just fitness journeys — they’re stories of financial breakthroughs, career pivots, relationship rebuilding, entrepreneurial success, educational achievements and so much more.
We’re not stopping at simply telling these stories. Each one will include practical tools for how these transformations happened.
Tim Stephens
Whether it’s creating a budget, starting a business or overcoming obstacles in a relationship, we’ll share step-by-step playbooks to empower others to take their first steps toward change.
Here’s what you can expect from 56-for-56:
► 7-Part Mini-DocuSeries: We’ll go behind the scenes of my journey, from the initial weigh-in to the workouts, meal planning, expert consultations, and everything in between. Each episode will explore not only what I’m doing but also why I’m doing it and how I plan to make it stick this time.
► Social Media Bonus Content: Follow daily updates on my personal Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn, where we’ll
post exclusive clips, motivational moments and behind-the-scenes content not featured in the main episodes. Expect raw and real updates that take you inside the ups and downs of this transformation.
► Playbooks for Success: Alongside the series, we’ll release a detailed playbook outlining the steps I’m taking, the tools I’m using and the lessons I’m learning. It’s designed to help you adapt these strategies for your own transformation.
This time, I’m doing it differently. I’m working under medical supervision, consulting with nutritionists and trainers and leaning into the lessons I’ve learned from past failures. I’m not just remodeling my body; I’m reprogramming my thinking.
But The Transformation Project is bigger than my journey. It’s about spotlighting your story — or the story of someone you know who has overcome obstacles and transformed their life.
If you — or someone you know — has a story of transformation, we want to hear it. Use the QR code below to nominate yourself or someone else. Whether it’s losing weight, climbing out of debt, changing careers, starting a business, going back to school or something else, your story could be the one that inspires someone else to take the first step.
Together, we’ll show what’s possible when we commit to transformation. It starts with me — 56-for-56 — but ultimately, it’s about all of us.
Who’s in with me?
Life in Hoover
BACK WHEN GET TO KNOW
Meredith Montgomery-Price of the Megan Montgomery Foundation
By STAFF
Q: Tell us about your organization.
A: I’m the executive director of the Megan Montgomery Foundation to Prevent Domestic Violence. I am also Megan’s big sister, and our organization raises funds, and then we give those funds away to schools and other organizations so that they can implement healthy relationship programs at their organization.
Q: What is your role in the organization, and how did you get involved?
A: My role in the organization is executive director, and I’ve been doing it for about a year. My parents and I are the ones who founded the organization. They were basically running it, and they’re both retired. And so I was doing something else at the time, and then it was just one of those God things. I asked my mom if they needed help with the foundation, and she said, ‘I thought you would never ask.’ I started out part time, but here I am a year later, and I think we’re doing pretty good.
Q: Who does your organization serve?
A: Our organization serves anybody and everybody. But basically it’s anyone that’s college or high school-aged that’s getting into relationships, going on dates for the first time,
but also teachers, faculty, law enforcement, judges — anyone and everyone that could benefit from healthy relationship education … And it needs to be taught just like algebra or science or history. Our mission is to prevent domestic violence before it starts. And that is by educating boys and girls on the healthy and unhealthy aspects of relationships.
Connect with Hoover Sun online: visit our website, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.
The entrance of Inverness: Why Hoover reached for the 280 corridor
By SAVANNAH SCHMIDT
For years, Hoover had been searching for property along the lucrative U.S. 280 corridor. Then, more than 30 years ago, city officials decided to take a bite of the prized highway at Inverness.
In Marilyn Davis Barefield’s book “A History of Hoover, Alabama and its People,” she explains that commerce in Hoover flourished along major roads like U.S. 31 but dissipated in the residential areas.
“City officials quickly realized that when commercial growth is successful, residential development will follow,” Barefield writes.
Hoover extended its reach to U.S. 280 in 1990 after acquiring annexed land from Shelby County. One piece of land, Inverness, was home to the profitable commercial properties of Inverness Plaza and Inverness Corners.
Additionally, in 1972, Inverness Country Club was built with golf, swimming and tennis facilities.
“A modern clubhouse is an attraction for its members, approximately half of whom reside in the residential developments in Inverness,” Barefield writes. The combination of recreational facilities and the proximity to the extended commercial land in Hoover drew people to the area. According to placesnamed.com, the population of Inverness in 1990 was 2,528. By 2023, the website Best Neighborhood recorded that the population had grown to 7,279.
A relic from the fire that destroyed the Inverness Country Club in 2007. Staff photo.
Meredith Montgomery-Price is the executive director of the Megan Montgomery Foundation. Photo courtesy of Meredith Montgomery-Price.
On the Mainstage
GET TO KNOW
Clay artist Lee Barnes
By STAFF
Lee Barnes is a clay artist who lives in Hoover’s River Forest community.
Q: How would you describe the type of artwork you do?
A: It’s clay. I do a little bit of wheelwork, but it’s mostly hand-building technique. I typically am inspired by nature, flowers, angels, cats, dogs, butterflies, hummingbirds, that sort of thing. I do all sorts of colors, sometimes to pick up the texture in the clay, other times just vibrant colors.
Q: What are some of your influences?
A: My influences have included my grandparents, who were huge nature lovers, and also the beautiful colors used by Marc Chagall and Vincent Van Gogh.
Q: When did you first discover you had a talent for this?
A: I’ve received feedback from people who can identify my work, and that’s gratifying — feedback from people who love nature, flowers,
birds, angels; that’s very gratifying as well.
Q: What is your favorite piece of artwork you’ve done?
A: I have a couple of angels I have not parted with.
Q: Where can people see your work?
A: People can find my work at the Patton Creek Art Festival that’s held in the spring and some art events around town. Also, Alabama Goods in Homewood sometimes has some of my work, as well as Wild Birds Unlimited in Hoover. I’ve been accepted to this year’s Moss Rock Festival Nov. 2-3.
Q: What’s something interesting about you that people might not know?
A: Hmmm. Something interesting about me? I’m not very interesting, but I love to cut grass. There’s something very gratifying about seeing that instant result. I was a softball all-star as a teenager, and I have an associate’s [degree] in counseling.
Jacob Price of Guitar Center
By JON ANDERSON
Jacob Price teaches guitar at Guitar Center in Hoover.
Q: How long have you been teaching guitar?
A: A little over a year. … I’ve been playing for 26 [years]. I know it doesn’t look like it, but I’ve been playing since I was a little kid. … This is the first job I’ve ever had — other than just playing music out — where I was like “I’m supposed to do this.” This is what I’m supposed to do for the rest of my life. It’s just too easy. … I love coming here every day.
Q: How did you get into music?
A: I honestly don’t even know how. There are old VHS copies of me just beating on a guitar when I was little. Essentially my Dad just handed me a guitar, and through my life as I grew up, he just kept telling me, “Play the guitar.” Eventually I just got good at playing guitar. It’s the only thing I’m good at now.
Q: What kind of guitar do you play?
A: Literally anything — electric,
acoustic. If it’s got strings, I can make it sound good.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to play?
A: I’d probably say it’s a mixture between traditional blues — stuff like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Slash and Guns N’ Roses — and hardcore, like slam metal.
Q: Have you taught other places other than here?
A: No, this is my first teaching job. I’ve essentially worked manual labor my entire life.
Lee Barnes
Jacob Price teaches guitar at Guitar Center in Hoover. Photo by Jon Anderson.
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At UAB Medical West, our team of orthopedic specialists are dedicated to helping patients restore mobility and enhance their quality of life. We are committed to bringing quality, state-of-the-art orthopedic care to the residents of West Jefferson County, AL and are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jay Fitts to our team. Dr. Fitts specializes in spine surgery and is now accepting new patients at both our brand new main hospital location and our Hoover location. To schedule an appointment with a UAB Medical West Orthopedic surgeon, call us today at (205) 481-8570. For more information about UAB Medical West and all of our services, visit us online at medicalwesthospital.org.
J. Dory Curtis, MD | Erika Issis-Vasha, PA-C | Patrick Rowan, MD | Scott Seibert, MD | Jay Fitts, MD
