Hoover Sun October 2015 by Starnes Media

Sun Neighborly news & entertainment for Hoover

The new 2016 ilx

Alabama Acura Dealers

1687 Montgomery Hwy Hoover, al 35216 (205) 979-8888

Volume 4 | Issue 1 | October 2015

Bringing history to life

Fall football

Catch up on how the Bucs and Jags are doing this season in our football recaps.

Whispers From the Past returns to Aldridge Gardens

See page B11

Home inspiration

Find tips and tricks on caring for your home and garden in this month’s special advertising section.

King Acura

By MARIENNE THOMAS OGLE There won’t be any teepees or tomahawks at Aldridge Gardens on Oct. 4, but there will be an opportunity to delve into the authentic history of Southeastern Native Americans. Whispers From the Past: A Native American Experience is an annual daylong festival of hands-on activities, demonstrations, artifacts, lectures and performances with representatives of the local Native American community. Audrey Ann Wilson, Gardens education coordinator, said the event allows visitors of all ages a glimpse into the past and present of the ﬁrst inhabitants of the area that is now Alabama and neighboring states. “Having taught in public schools for 26 years, I realize that people are interested in American Indians but often think in stereotypes about the ancient people of the Southeast,” Wilson said. “As the study of Native Americans is a part of the social studies

The Medicine Tail Dancers and Singers will showcase dances in the different styles of several Native American tribes during their performance at Aldridge Gardens’ Whispers From the Past. Photo courtesy of Diana Knight.

See WHISPERS | page A30

Special page B14

INSIDE City ........................A6 Business.............A10 Community ........A14

School House ......B6 Sports ..................B11 Calendar .............B26

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Classroom deficit School budget shortfall raises questions of cutting expenses, increasing taxes By JON ANDERSON The Hoover school system’s revenue has dropped by almost $2,500 per student since 2008. This is one of several reasons that the school board’s budget for the 2016 fiscal year, $168 million in total, includes a deficit of $10.4 million. It’s the latest in a string of budget

deﬁcits for Hoover City Schools since 2008. The only year in recent years where revenues exceeded expenditures was 2011, when the school system took in $1.7 million more than it spent, thanks in large part to an inﬂux of federal money that year. New Superintendent Kathy

See BUDGET | page A31

2016 Expenditures $168 million

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HooverSun.com

October 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ A3

A4 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

About Us Meet our new staff

Please Support our Community Partners

Cameron Tipton Cameron Tipton, a Birmingham native, recently returned after graduating from the University of Alabama with a degree in journalism. During her time in Tuscaloosa, she volunteered at The Crimson White and interned at The Tuscaloosa News. For two weeks during her final semester, she took her love of storytelling to England and Wales while working on a travel magazine called Alpine Living. With her experiences in tow, she is excited to be back home and to join the team at Starnes Publishing. She is ready to help tell the stories of her hometown.

Jon Anderson Jon Anderson has 23 years of professional experience in reporting, writing, editing and management. He worked for The Birmingham News for all 23 years (including the last three years as a part of the Alabama Media Group, which publishes the AL.com website and The Birmingham News). Since graduating from the University of Alabama in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, Jon has covered a variety of subjects, including business, legislative and municipal elections, Shelby County and Hoover. From 2006 to 2012, he oversaw reporting teams in Hoover and western Jefferson County. In 2012, The Birmingham News reorganized as part of a new company called the Alabama Media Group. Many jobs were eliminated, but Jon went back to reporting in Hoover. He did that for the past three years and is excited to continue coverage of Hoover and other Over the Mountain areas for Starnes Publishing.

Editor’s Note By Sydney Cromwell Just two weeks ago, I came back from an amazing – and too brief – vacation to California to hike in Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. On the last two days, the area was covered in an increasing haze, as the wind had carried smoke from nearby forest fires for miles. I had known about the forest fires and their danger for residents. But it was just an abstract until my car was enveloped in the smoke. Two days after I returned to Birmingham, a wild cat sanctuary I visited had to be evacuated because the fires had moved too close. It’s too easy for me to get wrapped up in the news of Hoover and Birmingham, sparing only a glance for the rest of the country or the world. It’s like that for everyone – there’s so many interesting things going on with your job, your hobbies, your child, your neighborhood, so who has time to devote to the stuff outside that circle?

Sun Publisher: Creative Director: Editor: Managing Editor: Sports Editor: Staff Writers:

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Contributing Writers: Contributing Photographer: Intern: Published by:

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Sydney Cromwell Madoline Markham David Knox Katie Turpen Madison Miller Erica Techo Jon Anderson Roy L. Williams Louisa Jeffries Andrew Anderson Matthew Allen Warren Caldwell Don Harris Michelle Salem Haynes Brittany Joffrion Rhonda Smith Leah Ingram Eagle Marienne Thomas Ogle Frank Couch Sam Chandler Hoover Sun LLC

Don’t wait until the smoke is around your car (metaphorically speaking) to care about the things beyond your circle. If the school system budget doesn’t affect you, learn about it anyway to see how it may impact a niece or nephew or the children who will lead Hoover in the future. If the new businesses in the city don’t interest you, there might be a friend who would like to try them out. There’s no downside to knowing more about Hoover as a whole, and when you’ve put down this issue of the paper I hope you’ll pick up another news source to read about the rest of Alabama, the U.S. and the rest of the world. Expand your circle, even just for a few minutes every day, to learn and care about the place you live.

Contact Information: Hoover Sun #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@hooversun.com

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

For advertising contact: dan@hooversun.com Legals: The Hoover Sun is published monthly.

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

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30 A Realty (B27) AL Newspaper Advertising Service (B25) Alabama Acura Dealers (A1, A6) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (A18) Alabama Credit Union (B6) Alabama Outdoors (A18) Alabama Podiatry (A19) Alabama Power (A29) Aldridge Gardens (A5, B2) Alys Stephens Center, Art Play (A31) Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center (B13) Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama (A20) ARC Realty (B14) Baptist Health Center Hoover (A21) Batts’ Chimney Services (B23) Bedzzz Express (B28) Ben Franklin - One Hour (B15) Bin There Dump That (B20) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (A14) Brookdale University Park (A16) California Closets (A16) City of Hoover (A23) Classic Gardens (A19) Construx (B20) Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare (B4) Danberry at Inverness (A3) Decorating Dens Interiors (B19) DSLD Land Management (B21) Encore Rehabilitation (B10) ENT for Kids Alabama (A14) ERA King Real Estate Homewood (A20) Fit People (A24) Gardner Landscaping (B18) Geico Insurance (B2) Grace Life Baptist Church (B8) Grandview Medical Center (A32) Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders (A21) Healthy Smiles of Birmingham (A25) Hoover Florist (B9) Hoover Public Library (A30, B7) Hunter Street Baptist Church (B24) Issis & Sons (B11) James Harwell, RealtySouth (A24) JamJev Gymnastics (B8) Jefferson Credit Union (A1) Kasey Davis Dentistry (B3) Kathy Gipson, Keller Williams Realty (A22) Kelli Gunnells Realtor (B4) LAH Real Estate - Hoover Office (A28) Lawncrafters (B23) MedCenter Hoover (A26) Mountain Chapel UMC (A28) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (B24) Outdoor Living Areas (B5) Over the Mountain Glass (A27) Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics (A30) Patti Schreiner, Re/MAX Southern Homes (A13) Pediatric Smiles (B26) Planet Fitness (A10) PlumCore (B22) Rehaba (A12) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (A26) Road Runner Moving (A11) Rock N Roll Sushi Hoover (A31) Skelton’s Air (B18) Southlake Orthopaedics (A22) Susette Clark-Walker, RealtySouth (B8) Sweetspire Gardens (A9) Target Auction Company (B9) The Maids (A13) The Neighborhood Plumber (B24) The Whole Scoop (A25) Tom Williams BMW (B1) Total Beauty and Skin Dermatology (B12) UAB Comprehenive Stroke Center (A2) Uncorked! on the Green (A7) Urban Home Market (B17) Vestavia Sunoco and Tire Express (A11) Victory NAPA (A9) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A15, B3) Vulcan Park and Museum (A27) Vulcan Termite & Pest Control (A8) Walton and Tower Real Estate (B26) Weigh To Wellness (A17) White Dog Photography (B25) Wrapsody (B7)

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October â&#x20AC;˘ A5

A6 • October 2015

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City I

Mayor’s Minute By Gary Ivey

t’s hard to believe the holidays are right around the corner! We are very excited about the abundance of activities in Hoover in the fall. On the afternoon of Nov. 1, the city kicks off their Veterans’ weeklong celebration with a reception held at the Hoover Library Plaza. Be sure and visit our website at hooveralabama.gov for a complete list of Veterans’ activities the week of Nov.1-9. Also, please take a moment to thank the men and women that have served or are presently serving our country. If you are planning to have a holiday party, please remember the Hoover Met or the gorgeous Aldridge Gardens.

Both of these gems are located in our city and the Hoover Met has a tremendous amount of parking available with easy access to I-459. Either location has caterers available so all you have to do is book your party today and they’ll take care of the rest. Be sure and save the date for our Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall on Monday, Nov. 30 from 5-7 p.m. Bring your children and grandchildren out to see Santa! As you can see, we have a lot of activities going on in Hoover, and 2016 promises to be another fun and action-packed year! Please take time to get involved in your community; we

have a lot to offer. You can always call our office or visit our website for more information. We are happy to serve the people of Hoover, and I am honored to be your mayor. We want to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season! Sincerely,

Gary Ivey Mayor

Gary Ivey

Hoover holds 9/11 ceremony

A bell was tolled at the end of the ceremony, remembering those who were lost on Sept. 11, 2001. Photo by Erica Techo.

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per month for 36 months

Hoover’s first responders came together on Sept. 11 to remember the lives lost in multiple terrorist attacks 14 years ago. The solemn Patriot Day ceremony was held at Fire Department Station 2, on Patton Chapel Road, and included speeches from FD Executive Officer Rusty Lowe and retired U.S. Congressman Spencer Bachus. At the end of the morning ceremony, a bell was tolled in memory of the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. Patriot Day is an annual ceremony held by the fire department. It is distinct from the joint Patriot Day ceremony that the cities of Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills hold.

lease the 2016 ILX 8-speed $2,799 Total Due At Signing Includes down payment with no security deposit. Excludes tax, title, license and dealer fees. For well-qualified lessees.

Matina Johnson sings the National Anthem at Hoover’s Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony on Sept. 11. Photo by Erica Techo.

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Closed-end lease for 2016 ILX 8-Speed Dual-Clutch vehicles subject to availability through 11/2/15 on approved credit through American Honda Finance Corp., DBA Acura Financial Services for well-qualified lessees. MSRP $28,820 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title fees, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $24,455.69. Total monthly payments $8,244.00. Option to purchase at lease end $16,715.60. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15 ¢/mile over 10,000 miles/year. Dealer sets actual prices. See dealer for details.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A7

Hoover Public Library reopens with new look

Hoover Public Library got new computer carrels and an updated color scheme during its recent renovations. Photo by Lance Shore, Courtesy of Patricia Guarino.

By ERICA TECHO Hoover Public Library reopened Saturday, Sept. 12 after about a month of renovations. The library remained open with limited services during many of the changes, but ended up closing for final touches, said Patricia Guarino, assistant director and the library’s project manager for the project. “Now that it’s almost over, it [the renovation] went great,” Guarino said. “As with any construction program, it had its challenges, but we really had a great team with our contractors.” Guarino said she appreciated the hard work by the companies the library worked with, as well as the patience of library patrons. She said library staff looks forward to sharing the renovations with visitors. The makeover includes an updated color scheme, new carpet and updated computer carrels. The children’s area is also receiving new colorful and child-sized furniture. Her

favorite part of the library is the color, Guarino said, which was utilized by the interior designer. “She did a fabulous job of pulling the colors together in each of the departments,” Guarino said. The new computer carrels also bring an openness to the space, she said. “They just have such a modern look compared to the wooden carrels we had for years and years,” she said. “It just opens up the area and makes it feel just modern and open.” When the library re-opened on Sept. 12, there were special treats for the first 1,500 guests and staff to answer questions about the renovations. While everything is in the same place as before, Guarino said staff is happy to talk about the updates made to the library. “We just really appreciate our patrons’ patience with us during the month of August, with our limited services,” Guarino said. “We’re looking forward to getting back to business as usual with our new, vibrant look.”

City to work with Shelby County on Inverness greenway By JON ANDERSON The City Council on Sept. 8 approved an agreement with ALDOT for the city to maintain a planned 2.8-mile greenway from Valleydale Road to the Inverness Nature Park. Much of the greenway will be a sidewalk along Inverness Center Parkway that is 7 to 10 feet wide, but once the greenway reaches the nature park, it will become a 10-foot-wide asphalt trail through the middle of the park, Tim Westhoven, assistant executive director for the city of Hoover, said. The Inverness greenway is a joint project between Hoover and Shelby County and is being managed by ALDOT. Easements are now being acquired for right of way, but Westhoven said he was unsure of the timetable for construction. In other business, the Hoover City Council: `` Authorized the fire department to start a firefighter recruit school. `` Gave approval for the city’s Medical Clinic Board to issue up to $18 million worth of tax-exempt bonds to help a company buy and renovate the Riverchase Village Senior Living Community off Data Drive in Hoover. The company, Omega

`` `` ``

`` ``

Communities, is supposed to make payments on the bonds, at no expense to the city, but gain the benefit of the tax-exempt status. Agreed to pay $97,800 to Lawler Specialties for a storage shed for the city’s Public Works Department. Scheduled a public online auction through Oct. 6 to dispose of surplus city equipment. Agreed to spend an extra $58,589 for upgrades at the Hoover Recreation Center pool, bringing the total cost of the project to $465,789. Annexed a house at 2905 Glenstone Circle owned by the Patrick Oliver Group LLC into the city limits. Rezoned a house at 2117 Chapel Hill Road from neighborhood shopping district to R-1 single-family district. The house is owned by Dr. Donald Hayes and has been used for residential purposes for at least 16 years, Hayes said. Rezoned a piece of land at 1600 Lake Cyrus Club Drive from planned office use to a planned single-family district. The property has been used as a sales office for the Lake Cyrus community, but the property owner wants to divide it into two residential lots.

A8 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

City to address Shades Mountain Plaza concerns Potholes, trash and neglected property top resident complaints By JON ANDERSON The city of Hoover has found a way to address Bluff Park residents’ concerns about what they consider unsightly conditions at Shades Mountain Plaza. Since January, residents have been waging a campaign to get owners of the Plaza to clean it up and make it safer for customers who shop there. They particularly singled out Chris Gauldin, who owns the part of the shopping center that contains the Piggly Wiggly grocery store and U.S. post office. Residents complained about large potholes in the parking lot, peeling paint, overgrown landscaping and weeds, graffiti, mold, trash and discarded furniture littering the property. Councilman Gene Smith has been working with the city attorney to see what the city can do about residents’ concerns but previously said the city had no ordinance dealing with public nuisances on commercial property. Bluff Park residents came back to the City Council in September, and Smith informed them the city can

use the International Property Maintenance Code to address concerns about garbage and overgrown weeds on commercial property. City inspectors can now move forward on that, Smith said. However, it may take some time because property owners have to be given a certain amount of time to address issues once the city informs them of code violations, he said. Robin Schultz, a Bluff Park resident who brought concerns to the council in July, August and again in September, welcomed the news. Schultz said Gauldin has made some improvements, such as repairing potholes in the parking lot, painting parts of the building and removing some of the discarded furniture. But much more needs to be done, and Gauldin only takes action when pressure is put on him by people in power, Schultz said. Residents in January organized a community cleanup at the shopping center, and about 30 people showed up to pick up trash and debris. Schultz said residents have done all they can do on their own and are depending on the

(Above) Bluff Park resident Robin Schultz stands in front of a pole that has since been painted and refurbished in front of Shades Mountain Plaza. Photo by Roy Williams. (Left) Residents are concerned about trash and other unsightly problems at Shades Mountain Plaza. Photo courtesy of Robin Schultz.

city to take action now. “We residents of Bluff Park are pretty tired of it,” he said. Schultz even created a website

called SMPlaza.info to try to spread news about the problems at Shades Mountain Plaza and shame Gauldin into action.

Gauldin repeatedly has declined to comment about residents’ complaints. In July, all he would say was that “it should be obvious what I am doing.”

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October 2015 • A9

HooverSun.com

Chamber Stewart discusses Coach Saban at Chamber luncheon By ERICA TECHO

Chris Stewart discusses Alabama football at the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce September luncheon. Photo by Erica Techo.

he has and the games he gets to watch, including Alabama’s 2011 defeat of Penn State in Happy Despite sitting down with Alabama football Valley, when Alabama beat Tennessee the eighth head coach Nick Saban each week, Chris Stewart year in a row and 2013’s last minute loss to hasn’t had the chance for small talk. Auburn. “How long did you and I talk today, Bill “I’m so fortunate because I can look at domi[Powell], 10 minutes? That’s about how much noes that fell one-by-one that have led me to whersmall talk I’ve had with coach in five years, give or ever I happen to be today,” Stewart said. take nine minutes,” Stewart said, as he addressed A few weeks ago, Stewart had former Alabama the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce. head coach Gene Stallings on his radio show. Stewart is the host of The Nick Saban Show, a He said while Alabama’s run under Saban has program where he discusses that week’s game with been great, he will always miss Stallings’ press Saban. With Saban, Stewart conferences. said there just isn’t time for “It didn’t matter. Coach “Now you’ve got Coach small talk. Saban’s Saturday Stallings’ press conferSaban, which people tune ences were all the same. schedule is non-stop, Stewart said, and the show is the tail You’d ask Coach Stallings into for the same reason end of that day – sometimes a question, he would cut that a good number of they won’t get to record until you off before you could after midnight. people tune into NASCAR finish asking it by giving “Nick Saban ain’t spendthe short answer,” Stewraces – because they’re ing an hour with me, and I’m art said. “He would then waiting on the big one. OK with that,” Stewart said. repeat your question and “He’s got other things to do. then give a long-form And the big one’s really If we spend 20 minutes, his answer to the question.” cool, as long as you’re not toe starts tapping and the After his anecdotes arms start getting folded and about Alabama football behind the wheel. crossed, and I know we’ve and a few impressions of “My job is to get our alive past players and coaches, got to wrap it up.” Stewart started his career Stewart thanked the chamand avoid the big one.” in broadcasting in 1988, and ber for hosting him. As a he has worked at Birmingham Southern and UAB. Hoover resident, Stewart said he appreciated the In addition to The Nick Saban Show, Stewart is work of the local business owners and community the play-by-play announcer for Alabama men’s members. basketball and baseball. He also has his own daily “I appreciate what you as business owners in the sports radio show in Tuscaloosa. community do to allow citizens such as myself to “I have figured life out,” Stewart said. “I get a raise children here, go to church here, to have lifechance to sit in my basement, on my backside, talk long friends here,” he said, “and I hope that you’ll to my friends for a few hours, and I got somebody continue to do all of the things you have done at this to pay me for it. It’s a good gig.” point to continue to make the City of Hoover great.” Stewart said he is thankful for the opportunities

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Hoover Happenings

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Now Open 9Round 30 Min Kickbox Fitness is now open at 2766 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 100. The facility offers 30-minute workout sessions with trainers and no set class schedules. 518-6160, 9round.com/HooverALJohnHawkins

El Gringo Mexican Restaurant has opened its third location at 1843 Montgomery Highway, Suite 105. 518-6442

October 2015 • A11

HooverSun.com Iron Trust Insurance Agency, 2108 Rocky Ridge Road, Suite 3, is now open. The agency is owned by Nolan Cesnick. 920-1199, irontrustins.com

been named to the 2015 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in the United States, ranked at No. 3,469. 757-8330, ticketbiscuit.com

Employment Screening Services, 2500 Southlake Park, has been named to the 2015 Inc. 5000 list of fastestgrowing companies in the United States, ranked at No. 4,025. 879-0143, es2.com

Paradise Biryani Pointe Indian Cuisine has opened at 1841 Montgomery Highway, Suite 105. 538-7598

Coming Soon

Perfect Note, a restaurant and jazz entertainment venue, will open soon at 1845 Montgomery Highway, Suite 201. 434-1088, perfectnotelive.com

Elite Nutrition will soon open a new location at 1841 Montgomery Highway, Suite 101. The store will carry a complete line of nutritional supplements and products. 824-9855, elitenutrition.us Burger King will open soon inside Walmart Supercenter at 2780 John Hawkins Parkway. burgerking.com

Relocations and Renovations IronTrust Insurance Agency has relocated to 2108 Rocky Ridge Road, Suite 3. 920-1199, irontrustins.com

News and Accomplishments 24e Health Clubs, with a location at 1550-B Montgomery Highway, has been named to the 2015 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in the United States, ranked at No. 619. 824-4243, 24ehealthclubs.com

TicketBiscuit, 1550 Woods of Riverchase Drive, Suite 330, has

Hirings and Promotions ARC Realty, 5291 Valleydale Road, has hired Megan Twitty Kincaid, Kim Dunham, Karen Shadinger and Angel Torres as a residential Realtors. 969-8910, arcrealtyco.com

1456 Montgomery Hwy 31 Vestavia Hills

823-1213 823-1261

Keller Williams Realty’s Hoover office, 1 Chase Corporate Drive, Suite 150, has hired Kathy Gipson, formerly of RealtySouth, as its team leader and CEO. 822-2272, kellerwilliamshoover.com

RealtySouth’s Over the Mountain Alford office, 1220 Alford Ave., welcomed Anna Fowler as a new agent. 822-2364, realtysouth.com

Jennifer Buird, DVM, has joined Patton Chapel Animal Clinic as a full-time veterinarian. She has practiced part-time at the clinic since 2014. She has experience in general and emergency veterinary care in Virginia, Florida and Birmingham. She earned her doctorate in veterinary medicine from Mississippi State University. 822-4779, pattonchapelac.com

Angie Bryant is now back as sales 16 leader at Rocky Ridge Independent Living, 3517 Lorna Road. 989-6500, holidaytouch.com/ourcommunities/rocky-ridge

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Hoover Sun

A12 • October 2015

More sidewalks on the way for Hoover By JON ANDERSON The Preserve subdivision in Hoover is now a step closer to having a new sidewalk in the community. The Hoover City Council recently approved a construction agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation for a 1-mile sidewalk along Preserve Parkway between Sulphur Springs Road and the Preserve Town Center. The sidewalk will be on the north side of the parkway, next to the 350acre Moss Rock Preserve nature park. ALDOT is expected to seek bids for construction of the sidewalk in December, said Tim Westhoven, assistant executive director for the city of Hoover. Construction likely will start in the spring. Construction and engineering for the sidewalk is expected to cost about $270,400, with the federal government picking up 80 percent of the tab ($216,320) and the city of Hoover paying the other 20 percent ($54,080), according to the construction agreement. This is only one of about a dozen sidewalk projects planned in Hoover right now. Construction is already underway on a 1,100-foot sidewalk on Hackberry Lane between Queensview Road and Running Brook Road. It will connect with an existing sidewalk that extends to Blue Ridge Boulevard and Shades Mountain Elementary School. That sidewalk should be completed by January, city officials said. Hoover also is working toward another sidewalk project in Bluff Park that will include 3,200 feet of

The city is planning to build more sidewalks in the Bluff Park community and other parts of Hoover. Photo by Frank Couch.

Project

Length

Status

1. Hackberry Ln. from Queensview to Running Brook

1,100 feet

Construction under way, should be complete in January

2. Preserve Pkwy. from Sulphur Springs Rd. to Preserve Town Center

1 mile

Construction expected to start in spring 2016

3. Lester Lane/Cloudland Drive in Bluff Park

3,200 feet

Construction to start very soon, should take 90 days

4. Bluff Park (Valley Street, Clearview Road, Savoy Street, Cloudland Drive, Tyler Road)

1.4 miles

Waiting for environmental clearance and authorization to acquire ROW

5. Inverness greenway from Valleydale to Inverness Nature Park

1.7 miles

50 percent of ROW acquired

6. Patton Chapel Rd. sidewalk extension to Simmons Middle

1 mile

ROW acquisition complete, utility relocation to begin soon

7. Ross Bridge Parkway from Deer Trail to Deer Valley Elem.

1 mile

ROW still being acquired

8. Valleydale Rd. between Inverness Ctr. Dr. & Caldwell Mill Rd.

3.5 miles

30 percent of ROW acquired

9. Valleydale Rd. between U.S. 31 and Riverchase Pkwy. East

3/4 mile

Plans complete, ROW acquisition to begin soon

10. Chapel Road between Chapel Creek and Park Avenue

1 mile

Plans 90 percent complete, ROW acquisition to begin soon

11. John Hawkins Pkwy. between U.S. 31 & Cahaba River Estates

2.5 miles

Plans on hold

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A13

Construction on new sidewalks will likely start in spring 2016. Photo by Frank Couch.

sidewalks on Lester Lane and Cloudland Drive near Bluff Park Elementary School. Construction is expected to start soon and should take about 90 days, Westhoven said. Another 1.4 miles of sidewalks are planned on various streets around Bluff Park Elementary. Plans for that project have been submitted to the Alabama Department of Transportation for final review, and the city is waiting on environmental clearance and authorization to begin right-of-way acquisition. Bluff Park resident Kerry Leasure said those sidewalks can’t come soon enough. “We live half a mile from the school but can’t walk because of traffic on Valley [Street],” Leasure said.

The area behind the school is so crowded with carpool traffic that it’s dangerous for kids walking in that area, Leasure said. New Bluff Park Principal Terry Lamar arranged to have a crossing guard in that area, which has made it safer, but it’s still risky, she said. It was also dangerous for kids walking to and from nearby apartments off Tyler Road, so the school system arranged to provide a bus for them, even though they live within the 2-mile cutoff for bus service, Leasure said. It seems the larger Bluff Park sidewalk project is never going to get done, she said. She remembers seeing surveyors for the sidewalk on Valley when her oldest daughter was in the first grade. That daughter is now in fifth grade. Her youngest

child is in first grade and “at this point, I don’t think my children will ever be able to walk to school,” she said. “Everything takes such a long time – bureaucracy at work,” Leasure said. “Government doesn’t feel the urgency of the project like the rest of us.” Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey said most of the sidewalk projects in the city use federal funds and therefore involve cooperation between the city, state and federal governments. The city must get state and federal approval on various aspects of the projects, and whenever that many government entities are involved, there are a lot of steps and it’s a slow process, Ivey said. Projects wouldn’t take as long if the city

handled them alone, but they cost too much, and “you wouldn’t get the projects done,” he said. The City Council also on Sept. 8 approved an agreement with ALDOT for the city to maintain a planned 1.7-mile greenway from Valleydale Road to the Inverness Nature Park. Much of the greenway will be a sidewalk along Inverness Center Parkway that is 7 to 10 feet wide, but once the greenway reaches the nature park, it will become a 10-foot-wide asphalt trail through the middle of the park, Westhoven said. The Inverness greenway is a joint project between Hoover and Shelby County and is being managed by ALDOT. About 50 percent of the rights of way needed for the greenway project have been acquired, city officials said.

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A14 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Community Scout renovates trail at Riverchase Baptist Church By KATIE TURPEN Boy Scout Joshua Cornett recently renovated a trail at Riverchase Baptist Church on Crossvine Road for his Eagle Scout project. “They used to have a very nice trail several years ago, and over time the landscape timbers and mulch have deteriorated,” Cornett said. “I replaced the whole trail with new timbers and mulch.” The materials came from the Inverness Home Depot and Coshatt’s Sod Farm.

Cornett worked on the project with the assistance of 10-12 guys from his troop. “Reverend Jeff Greer said that in me doing this project for his church, the congregation wants to be on the trail again to read Bibles and walk on it in early morning hours,” said Cornett. It took Cornett 114 hours to complete the project from start to finish. His Court of Honor to receive the recognition for the award was held in September.

Boy Scout Joshua Cornett (far left) renovated a trail at Riverchase Baptist Church on Crossvine Road for his Eagle Scout project. Photos courtesy of Joshua Cornett.

Clarke completes Eagle project Scout, a Life Scout must earn 21 merit badges including 10 Eagle-required merit badges. A Scout is required to serve six months in a leadership position with his Boy Scout troop. Clarke served as the senior patrol leader of Troop 23 for a sixmonth period. Finally, a Life Scout must develop, manage and complete an Eagle Service project that is beneficial to the community. Clarke was able to raise more than $1,000 in donations, coordinated with local building inspectors and managed fellow scouts to complete the project. -Submitted by Michael Holt

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In July, an American flag was raised in honor of Marine Aviator Cyrus Augustus Clarke at Discovery United Methodist Church by Boy Scout Troop 23 of Hoover. Photos courtesy of Michael Holt.

In July, an American flag was raised in honor of Marine Aviator Cyrus Augustus Clarke at Discovery United Methodist Church by Boy Scout Troop 23 of Hoover. Life Scout Bennett Clarke, the grandson of Cyrus Augustus Clarke, erected the new flag pole as part of his Eagle Scout Service Project. The flag was initially flown by a U.S. Air Force pilot, currently serving in England and a former Eagle Scout. The Hoover Fire Department raised the flag as part of the ceremony. In order to achieve the rank of Eagle

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HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A15

Pairing wine and creativity Pinot’s Palette offers a place to paint, drink and enjoy in Hoover By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE Hoover holds a special place in Tamie Boychuk’s heart. Many of her teenage years were spent at the Riverchase Galleria with friends, and the Alabama native sees the city as not just a place to shop, but as a destination. After living in other cities around the country, she said it’s the heart and soul of the people that brought her back. “Alabama is where I was born and raised, and it will always be my home,” she said. Since 1989, Boychuk has worked serving others or helping the community where she lived. She began her job as an EMT in the BirminghamHoover area when she was 19. She was then a social worker at Children’s Aid Society and also in the burn unit of Children’s Hospital. After getting married in 2004, she moved to San Diego and also lived in Florida before coming back to Alabama. “My work was and has never been a job to me as much as it was a calling, but after over 20 years of service to others, I’m switching gears to doing something that will provide my family with an opportunity to work together while still serving the community in a more fun and lighthearted way,” she said. Boychuk will open the first Pinot’s Palette franchise in Alabama in

October. After attending a class, she loved the experience so much she researched the industry and decided she wanted to open a franchise of her own. She describes Pinot’s Palette as being in a class all by itself. It’s a place to paint, drink and have fun while being creative. In just a few hours, participants can create a painting while enjoying a glass of wine. “The Pinot’s Palette franchise understands that the true ownership of any successful business is with its customers,” Boychuk said. “So we strive to provide our customers with an extraordinary experience in an upscale and entertaining atmosphere. Our focus is not so much on teaching people how to paint as it is on the experience and having people leaving having had the time of their life.” Boychuk said there was no other place to open Pinot’s Palette other than Hoover. She was thrilled to find a prime location inside the Patton Creek shopping center, between Brixx Wood Fired Pizza and Firehouse Subs. If everything goes as planned, she hopes to be open in mid to late October. While the primary customers are women between ages 25-32, Boychuk said there has been an increase in the number of men, couples and families attending. In addition to regularly scheduled classes, the store will have slots

Pinot’s Palette

181 Main Street, Suite 225 558-5969 pinotspalette.com/hoover Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 1-8 p.m.

Pinot’s Palette will offer painting classes for all ages. Photo by Leah Ingram Eagle.

available seven days a week for events including corporate team building, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, birthday parties for kids and adults as well as family reunions. Pinot’s Palette also offers art enrichment programs for kids. “Little Brushes” are kids’ camps available during the summer and holidays for kids ages 6 to 13. During the holiday season, the studio will be offering “drop & shops” where parents can sign their kids up to paint for a few hours while they go Christmas shopping.

Boychuk describes herself as an amateur painter and will not be teaching classes at first, but will have between five and seven artists working in the studio. “We recruit artists from our local community and, in addition to their natural talents, we provide training for them in how we do business at Pinot’s Palette,” she said. Pinot’s Palette will have a strong social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Regularly scheduled classes will be held

Are you at your wit’s end trying to get

five days a week and can be signed up online or though the Pinot’s Palette app. Boychuck is confident enough in her business to begin anticipating when and where to open the next location. “While ‘Paint, Drink and Have Fun’ is our slogan, our mission is to bring art to the masses in a fun and entertaining atmosphere while providing extraordinary customer service and an unforgettable experience,” Boychuck said.

RID OF BELLY FAT?

A16 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Monogram Spot makes crafting passion a reality By DANNI ZHOU Some call it luck; others call it destiny. Nine years ago, Reata Nix attended her first craft show and immediately, her interest in handcrafted designs was sparked. She eventually found her niche in monogramming as her participation in craft shows frequented through the years. Soon after, Nix began crafting homemade monograms and quickly attracted the attention of coworkers and friends, setting the basis for her next step into the business world. Nix recently opened The Monogram Spot in Lee Branch shopping center located near Highway 280. The Monogram Spot provides ready-made monogrammed merchandise but also encourages customers to bring in personal items to be monogrammed. “My very first customer brought in a hand towel to be monogrammed,” Nix shares. “I don’t want customers to feel like they have to buy something from the store. My main focus is on making items, bought or owned, personalized for them.” Furthermore, monogramming divides into various categories. The store offers a wide selection: embroidery, heat press, adhesive vinyl and sublimation. Lastly, The Monogram Spot strays from limitations on monogram-able items, and the store includes diverse merchandise far beyond the common apparel sets and accessories. “If I can find a way to get the item onto the machine, I can monogram it,” Nix said. Though the Monogram Spot opened recently, Nix said she has already seen many satisfied customers. “I want this place to be known for having

The Monogram Spot offers different types of monograms on a wide variety of products, or customers can bring in their own items to monogram. Photo by Danni Zhou.

everything you need at great prices, but especially to be inviting to customers,” Nix said. “She is very customer service-oriented,” Nix’s friend and customer Jennifer Wesson said. Nix is a firm believer in that the positive experience of her customers sets the path for a successful business. Starting a huge project, especially a business, is never easy. However, each step seemed to fall in line for preparation of The Monogram Spot’s opening.

“I set a goal for my very first day of opening. I beat it by $4.11 in the last five minutes before closing,” Nix said. “Everything I needed from the starting point has been handed to me by God.” When asked how she would advise others through a similar process of opening a business, Nix recommended prayer, research and leaning on the support of family and friends. “My heart bursts with the amount of love I have received through this process,” Nix said.

The Monogram Spot 611 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 114 637-6933 Find them on Facebook and Etsy Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A17

L.Y.L.A.S Girls teaches

empowerment, optimism By DANNI ZHOU Two 11-year-old girls sat next to each other, both smiling from ear to ear. “L.Y.L.A.S. Girls has taught me to be kind and have more confidence,” one of the girls, Cakeria Conely, said. “I remember when one of the mentors first talked to me. I just stared back because I couldn’t even say hi to her. I was so shy. Now I want to be a leader.” Alongside her, India Kidd added, “I learned to never give up and to keep moving forward. When I started soccer, I stopped right away because I wasn’t good at it at first. I wish I didn’t give up so fast. One of my goals now is to learn to play the trumpet.” At first meet, the girls seem to instinctively embody perseverance and optimism. However, both credit their positivity to the L.Y.L.A.S. (Love You Like a Sister) Girls organization. “We [L.Y.L.A.S. Girls] are a nonprofit organization that empowers girls to be confident, loving and tenacious,” founder Tara Kidd said. Kidd is a Hoover resident and established the organization on May 30, 2014. She experienced insecurities growing up and wanted to guide younger girls in gaining self-confidence. She began to embrace mentorship roles as she grew older and eventually dedicated herself full time. The organization currently mentors 20 girls in Hoover and 150 girls throughout the state and country, from Montgomery and Monroeville, to Atlanta and Chicago. L.Y.L.A.S. Girls encourages girls between the ages of 8 to 18 through monthly meetings. The gatherings include workshops and speakers from around the area and beyond. Additionally, the organization gets involved in the community through fundraising and volunteer efforts at nursing homes. The Hoover Target,

Members of LYLAS Girls make friends and learn about confidence and perseverance through the group’s mentorship. Photo courtesy of Tara Kidd.

located in The Grove shopping center, has provided some supplies to L.Y.L.A.S. along the way. Along with Kidd, there are several other active mentors for L.Y.L.A.S. Girls. “We try not to act as parents but instead encourage values that were already taught to the girls and expand on that,” Kidd said. “We also concentrate on academic success, positive attitudes and the negatives of bullying.” Over the past year, there have been improvements within the program, including more adult volunteers and an easier enrollment process. The

girls themselves have also taken an important part in deciding workshop ideas. “In the future, I would love for the girls to be able to visit the White House and meet the president and First Lady. I’m also hoping that we’ll be able to start a scholarship fund,” Kidd said. “If we had to describe Mrs. Tara, we think that she is …” Cakeria paused in thought. “Graceful,” India filled in. “There wouldn’t be a group without her,” Cakeria agreed.

L.Y.L.A.S. Girls Free monthly meetings 356-5489 lylasgirlsorg@gmail.com or find them on Facebook

A18 • October 2015

By SYDNEY CROMWELL

A band on fire

Being in a band isn’t supposed to be easy. At 18 years old, however, Jake Wittig has somehow found the secret. Wittig started playing in bands with friends while at Hoover High School. One of those bands was called The Burning Peppermints, and it developed from two friends playing at open mic nights to a five-piece group that was one of the opening acts at Secret Stages 2015. Getting in front of that kind of crowd is something Wittig has wanted for years. “I definitely wanted it really bad,” Wittig said. “I wanted to get better and get in front of people, and I haven’t really let go of that.” The Burning Peppermints include fellow 2015 HHS graduate Daniel Powers and senior Walker Scott. Ryan Colebeck and Ahmad Farzad round out the band, which is known for its “surf punk” style and the black suits the band wears on stage. Farzad works at KJP Productions, a Birmingham recording studio, and was a fan of the Peppermints before he joined. In a video of an early gig at Bottletree, Wittig said you can see Farzad right at the front of the crowd, head bobbing in time to the music. Having worked in recording for years, Farzad knows the Peppermints’ easy relationship and lack of drama is something special. “I know how rare it is to find band members that not only are all on the same page musically, but are actually respectful human beings,” he said. “I’m personally proud of him [Wittig] because bands aren’t supposed to be easy, nothing’s supposed to be easy, but bands especially because it’s teamwork and an artistic effort.” Though Wittig said the band’s music is a collaborative effort, Farzad said the 18-year-old is “the engine” of the band. They recently digitally released their album “Dirty Rainbow!!” and are working on another one to produce in 2016. Wittig said the Peppermints’ audience is growing because they are both energetic and professional, while making the music their top priority. “We’re definitely concerned with making really good art, but also getting people to stop thinking they’re too cool to dance and get crazy at the show,” Wittig said. Playing Secret Stages was a chaotic experience for the Peppermints. One band member was in a car accident that day, and their stage didn’t have power until five minutes before the show began. Once they got on stage, Wittig broke a guitar string on

Hoover Sun

Hoover High graduate Jake Wittig is the singer and guitarist for his band, The Burning Peppermints. Photo by Tyler Woods.

the first note of the first song. Despite the rocky start, the rest of their show was smooth and the crowd seemed to love it as much as the band. With Secret Stages behind them, Wittig said the Peppermints want to focus on creating an out-of-state audience. The band was surprised to find people from California, Australia and Germany downloading their most recent album. It inspired them to begin looking at possibilities beyond Birmingham. “I thought only people from Alabama would know about it or

care about it,” Wittig said. “I feel like we’ve honed it enough, we’ve got to share it with the world.” The Peppermints will be choosing their venues carefully, however. They want to make sure the people who hear their music are going to get excited about it. For the young band, it’s all about “making good art and sharing it with good people.” “If you are in arts and not having fun, you are doing it wrong, for sure,” Farzad said. To learn more, visit theburningpeppermints.bandcamp.com.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A19

Behind the lioness, and what makes her roar By REBECCA WALDEN There is doing what you need to do to earn a living, and then there is doing what you love, what speaks to your heart in a way no other endeavor can. For A. D. Lawrence, the latter was a most pleasant outcome of her early retirement years, when she finally listened to the little voice that all along had told her, “You are a writer.” After spending nearly three decades in the telecommunications industry, Lawrence, a native of Nashville and a longtime resident of Hoover, finally let go of her inner critic and penned her first book of poetry in 2009. That title, When the Lioness Roars, reflected a marked departure in Lawrence’s other writings to date, which had been mostly journalistic in style. Its reception, and Lawrence’s own personal enjoyment of the craft, led her to release two more poetry titles, When the Lioness Roars…Again and When the Lioness Roars…Again and Again. “Writing is something that comes into your mind and heart then comes out,” Lawrence said. “It is the capturing of thoughts, emotions and unspoken words. This is my gift from God. It is a form of communication that expresses me and captures the world around me in print. It is my canvas, and the colors I see are the words that make sense out of it all.” Lawrence’s most recent work, When the Lioness Roars…Again and Again was published in April 2015,

Poet and Hoover resident A.D. Lawrence has recently released her third book of poetry, When the Lioness Roars Again and Again. Photo courtesy of Books-A-Million.

and the author is staying busy with book signings and other promotional efforts. She’s also juggling two novels, A Coloring of Hearts and Life Beyond the Shadows. Lawrence is very candid in describing her craft as an emotional catharsis of sorts, and one that she hopes speaks

to her readers. “The books are stages of life and growth in a person’s walk from the shadows of deceit, fear and complacency to become who they (and others) think they should be, to the person God made them to be,” she said. “The lioness represents women and people who finally stand up, speak

up, look up, and take control of where they are going rather than allowing others to define them and make them feel less than they are.” As she’s produced these works over the past six years, Lawrence said it’s also helped her approach her own personal challenges with grace and gratitude.

“There was a lot of anger, along with hurt, expressed in the writings in the first book,” she said. “Life’s transition and new truths gradually mellowed and refined what is found in the others. The second book allowed the words to help me grieve, cope and heal. [And this] third one brought forgiveness, hope and happiness.” Lawrence cherishes her interactions with readers, whose feedback has ranged from sobering to celebratory. “I had one lady tell me the book really helped her sister, who was having a tough time with a divorce and depression, and I had another ask me for permission to use one of the poems for her wedding,” she said. “These let me know there was hurt, but also love seeping through the pages.” To other aspiring writers, Lawrence’s advice, like her poetry, is authentically candid. “If you have something to say, anything, don’t be afraid to say it in print,” she said. “You can’t hold back your feelings if you want people to relate to what you’re saying or living. Get up, write it down and keep it until you are moved to build on it. [And] always write from your heart and ask God to open it so the world can see His healing power, love and promise through you.” Lawrence’s works are available at Books-A-Million, Barnes & Noble, lulu.com and Amazon.com.

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Hoover Sun

A20 • October 2015

Dancing like everyone is watching Participants learn basic shag moves at the Southern Traveler Shag and Swing Weekend. Photo by Erica Techo.

By HANNAH JONES TJ and Wendy Zito are not your average Hoover parents. Between creating a dance group, opening a studio and traveling around the country for competitions, the Zitos have a bigger dream: they want to build a community in Hoover for dancers and give young adults a chance to socialize. “We want to help kids and people who really want to dance,” they said. “We would love to work with the community and bring up a local swing and shag community.” TJ grew up in Hoover and attended Hoover High School, where he was a wrestler. He didn’t begin to dance until his teens, though. “I wandered into the country bar, and I met a lady named Lisa West who started talking about different types of dancing,” said TJ. “I went to the University of Alabama, and I’d drive back and get her mail while she was at competitions and she’d pay me by teaching me West Coast

Swing lessons.” He fell in love with dance after that and began traveling for dance competitions nationally. Wendy has a very different dance background. She grew up in Mobile and danced her whole childhood, but had never done couples dancing. Wendy and TJ met while they both attended the University of Alabama, where Wendy became interested in couples dancing. However, the couple didn’t begin to dance together until after they were married. “He always dated his dance -TJ partners, and I told him he had his choice: We could date or we could dance,” Wendy said. “And while he was trying to decide, I kissed him and made the decision for him.” The couple moved back to Hoover after

graduation and created a dance group called Vulcan Performers in an effort to start dancing again. The group performs a variety of different styles in their shows, from jazz, tap to even belly dancing and break dancing. The Zitos also opened a dance studio in Hoover in 2007. “Immediately after our first show, we got contacted by some retail space and we opened our first studio,” TJ said. “We never intended to go into business, but it rolled from there.” While operating their Zito studio, the Zitos began to see a need in Hoover for a dance community. They took children from tough backgrounds under their wings and tried to make a positive influence on their lives. They also took in special needs children in an effort to provide

“Hoover has become a buzzword at competitions. Being able to say I’m from Hoover means something.”

them with a more interactive and physical form of therapy. The Zitos no longer own their studio or give lessons, but they are still pursuing their dream of a dance community for the younger generation in Hoover. “The problem is, when you’re too old for bars and too young to go to senior events, there’s not a whole lot to do,” TJ said. “We’ve always envisioned having something social we can organize where people mid-20s to mid-40s can hang out and dance.” And they believe that Hoover has great potential to fill this need. “Hoover has become a buzzword at competitions,” TJ said. “Being able to say I’m from Hoover means something.” The couple holds two national events every year: the Anti-Valentines Shag/Swing Social Dance, Workshop, and Competition Weekend in February and the Southern Traveler Swing and Shag Competition in August.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A21

Get a taste of Hoover’s best eats By STEVE IRVINE Officially, the 4th Annual Taste of Hoover is an opportunity to sample food from some of the best restaurants in the city. Unofficially, it’s something just a touch different. “It’s kind of like a big lawn party, is what I call it, like a garden party,” said Aldridge Gardens CEO Tynette Lynch. Aldridge Gardens plays host to the party on Oct. 22, beginning at 5 p.m. and finishing three hours later. Lynch anticipates that somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 restaurants and nine catering companies will participate. All of the restaurants are located in Hoover. In addition, the Jefferson State Culinary and Hospitality Institute will have cooking demonstrations throughout the evening. Beer, wine and champagne tasting will also be available, and Coca-Cola products will be served. Musical entertainment will be provided by local artist Racquel Lily. “It’s really a relaxed and casual evening for people,” Lynch said. Lynch said the format of the evening changed last year to provide a more relaxing setting for patrons. During the first two years of the event, it was “more like a reception. You stood up, tasted, walked around.” That changed last year. “It’s a little different than most tastings,” Lynch said. “We actually set up white tablecloths, tables and comfortable chairs all throughout the gardens area. People kind of claim the table, with friends, and they go and get their tastings and their food. You can go through as many times as you want.” Lynch said they’ve told restaurants to expect to serve between 250 and 300 people. She added they’ll cut ticket sales off near that number to ensure that no one runs out of food. Last year, she said, no restaurant ran out of food before the event ended. The event is more than just an enjoyable evening for the guests.

Taste of Hoover Area restaurants set up a variety of offerings for Taste of Hoover at Aldridge Gardens.

“We look at is as an opportunity for Hoover restaurants to (showcase) their food,” Lynch said. “It’s an opportunity for new restaurants to get exposure.” Several newer restaurants in the community will participate, including Bare Naked Noodles, Capers on Park Avenue, Pie Five Pizza Co. and Fried Green Tomatoes. Taqueria Mexico will be serving out of food carts. “That’s a cool thing,” Lynch said. “They will bring two or three food carts. We ask the restaurants, instead of doing a table with. We ask them to do a display. We will give ﬁrst-, second- and third-place ribbons for the best display of their food on their food table.” Tickets for the event are $25 for Aldridge

Gardens members and $35 for non-members. Parking will be available on site and at the adjacent First Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Oct. 22, 5-8 p.m. Aldridge Gardens Tickets: $25 (members), $35 (nonmembers) Aldridgegardens.com

This year’s vendors include: } } } } } } }

Bare Naked Noodles Buffalo Wild Wings Capers on Park Avenue Cedar’s Grille Costco Dale’s Southern Gril Edgars Bakery

} } } } } } }

Fried Green Tomatoes Joe’s Crab Shack Jubilee Joe’s Moe’s Original BBQ Newk’s Eatery Pie Five Pizza Co. Ragtime Café

} } } } } }

Spoon and Ladle Taqueria Mexico Taziki’s Mediterranean Café The Boot The Whole Scoop Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato

A22 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Release balloons for breast cancer By SYDNEY CROMWELL From Hoover and Auburn, thousands of pink and white balloons will be released on Oct. 19 to honor survivors and victims of breast cancer. Wrapsody, a retail store with locations in Patton Creek Shopping Center and Auburn, will be hosting its annual fundraising event, Hope Floats, to support the work of UAB’s cancer research and Angel Squad. The Squad is a group of volunteers providing support for UAB’s cancer patients. Sarah Brown, the owner of Wrapsody, said they like to give the money raised from Hope Floats to local charities, so the Auburn store will pick a different organization to benefit. From Oct. 1 to 19, Wrapsody will sell $5 balloons, each with a tag to write the name of a breast cancer survivor or victim. These tags will hang in the store window through the month. Pink balloons will be given in honor of those who have survived or are undergoing treatment for breast cancer, and white balloons will be for those who have passed away. Brown said people are also welcome to buy balloons simply to support breast cancer research, even if they don’t do it in honor of a specific person. Donations can be made online or at the store, and Brown said Wrapsody will sell T-shirts, drink cozies and bracelets for the cause, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to charity. On Oct. 19, Wrapsody employees and those who have bought balloons will gather in front of the store for a celebration. Last year, members of the Angel Squad also attended. For $20, Brown said participants can get lunch from Chicken Salad, a balloon and be entered into giveaways of a tailgating package and a $1,000 gift card to Wrapsody. At the end of the events, the Hoover and Auburn stores will simultaneously release their pink and white balloons. To learn more, call Brown at 989-7277 or visit wrapsodyonline.com.

Wrapsody employees and guests release balloons in honor of breast cancer patients at the 2014 Hope Floats. Balloon sales benefit cancer research and patient support at UAB. Photo courtesy of Sarah Brown.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A23

New campaign brings men into breast cancer awareness

Hernan Prado. Photo courtesy of the American Cancer Society.

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE The local chapter of the American Cancer Society is kicking off a fundraising campaign with local men leading the charge. During the “Real Men Wear Pink” campaign, 26 select men from the Birmingham area have been nominated to serve as the “Pink Men” of Birmingham during breast cancer awareness month. Each participant will promote breast cancer education and early detection with messaging provided by the American Cancer Society. There is also a fundraising component in which the men will compete against each other, raising as much funds as possible (a minimum of $2,500) for the American Cancer Society. The participant who raises the most funds will be named the “Birmingham’s Pink Man of the Year. Hoover resident Hernan Prado is participating in the campaign because he believes that cancer prevention and research awareness is vital to having healthy communities. “It directly affects humans’ behavior,

wellbeing, happiness and therefore influences economic and community development. With my volunteer collaboration, I want for other Hispanic/Latino business people to feel identified with this noble cause and to foster activities supporting cancer awareness efforts,” he said. Cancer hit close to home for Prado last year, who is president of HOLA Latino Marketing Company in Hoover. His mother, who lives in Ecuador, was diagnosed with cancer, and that made his distance from her deeply noticeable. “It is a struggle for me to be incapable of being close to her in these hard times, because I can’t just fly to see her often. I wish Ecuador could have organizations like the American Cancer Society,” Prado said. “Cancer research in the United States should be supported so findings can be shared with affected people around the world.” For his fundraising, Prado is planning to develop two fundraising activities that will include good food, music and dancing, and he will reach out to his family, friends and companies he does business with.

Hoover churches host fall festivals By ERICA TECHO

The event will be at 2290 Old Tyler Road. The event is free and open to the community.

The leaves are changing color, falling from the trees and jack-o-lanturns are popping up on front porches. As crisp, fall weather comes in, make sure to check out these community events for family fun, good food and festive treats.

} Bluff Park United Methodist is hosting a fall fest on Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. There will be games, food and candy at the event. Bluff Park UMC is located at 733 Valley Street.

} Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church is hosting a fall fest on Oct. 17. The event is from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and includes a yard sale, bake sale, barbecue, crafts and pumpkin decorating. For more information, call Janet Roberts at 822-4210 or visit chapelinthepines.net. Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church is located at 2269 Chapel Road.

} Saint Mark United Methodist Church is hosting its annual fall festival on Oct. 25 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Activities include bounce houses, games, a trunk or treat and a cake walk. There will also be a table to decorate and carve pumpkins. Admission is free. For more information, call 822-5980. Saint Mark United Methodist Church is located at 2901 Columbiana Road.

} First Christian Church of Birmingham is hosting a trunk or treat on Oct. 25 from 3-5 p.m. There will be hayrides, games and food at the event. Call 991-5000 for more information. The church is located at 4954 Valleydale Road.

} Shades Crest Baptist Church is hosting Crest Fest on Oct. 28 from 5-7 p.m. It will be held in the church parking lot and includes a bounce house, games and food. Shades Crest Baptist Church is located at 452 Park Ave.

} Shades Mountain Independent Church is hosting a trunk or treat event on Oct. 31 from 3-5 p.m. There will be inﬂatables, free popcorn and free drinks. The church is located in Bluff Park. } Shades Mountain Christian School is hosting an Eagle Carnival on Oct. 2 from 3-6 p.m. There will be inﬂatables, a dunking booth, concessions, hay rides and a rock wall.

} Green Valley Baptist Church is hosting a fall festival on Oct. 25 from 4-6 p.m. The event is free to attend, and there will be food trucks to purchase food from and a dunk tank to raise money for the Upwards basketball program. There will also be free popcorn, inﬂatables, live music and a trunk or treat. Green Valley Baptist Church is located at 1815 Patton Chapel Road.

A24 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Acrobats to take library stage By RACHEL BURCHFIELD Grace. Power. Beauty. That is how Jessie Liu, administrative director of the Golden Dragon Acrobats, describes their show – an entertaining production that will make its way to the Hoover Public Library Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 10. Golden Dragon The contemporary music, fashionable costumes and non-tradiAcrobats tional acts, Liu said, will keep the audience’s eyes glued to the stage. Oct. 10, 4 and 7:30 p.m. The Library Theatre will give Hoover Public Library Theatre audiences two chances to enjoy Tickets: $25 the performance – one at 4 p.m., 444-7888 and one at 7:30 p.m. hooverlibrary.org/thelibrary“There are slow acts and fast,” theatre Liu said. “It keeps audiences from young to old entertained.” The Golden Dragon Acrobats troupe will perform at the All ages are welcome to attend Hoover Library Theater in the performances, but guests will October. Photo courtesy of Art need to act fast – not many tickets Fegan Entertainment. are left, Library Theatre fine arts coordinator Matina Johnson said. Less than 25 tickets remain for the 4 p.m. show, and less than 10 tickets remain for the 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are $25. “It’s wonderful to be able to offer these shows to patrons,” she said. “They are a loyal group.” Liu said the Plano, Texas-based group is 20 performers strong and that they have visited all 48 states in the continental United States and 65 countries worldwide. The troupe has been performing for over 32 years in the United States and is led by impresario Danny Chang and choreographer Angela Chang. The performers all hail from the People’s Republic of China. It was a no-brainer to add the Golden Dragon Acrobats to the Library Theatre’s twenty-fourth season,

Johnson said. She considers the Golden Dragon Acrobats “a great variety act” that fits in well with their offerings this year, including many musical acts. “It’s something different than music but as high caliber as the artists we bring in,” she said. “It adds variety and spice to the season.” Johnson had heard about the Golden Dragon Acrobats at performing arts conferences she’s attended over the years. “They’ve been on my radar for quite some time, and they seemed to fit perfectly in this season,” she said. “They make our 2015-2016 season very well-rounded.” The show is an all-encompassing one, Johnson said, combining dance, opera, costuming, martial arts and sports. “The types of acts that they are going to be doing are exciting,” she said. “It’s not your typical Cirque show. It has an Asian influence, and it should be a really beautiful show and a technically challenging show.” Two acts in particular have unforgettable acrobatic moments, Liu said. “Contortion and Tower of Chairs are the most memorable,” she said. Critics are standing up and taking notice. The Golden Dragon Acrobats have received two New York Drama desk nominations for their Broadway debut – one for Danny Chang for Unique Theatrical Experience, and one for Angela Chang for Best Choreography. The performers continue the time-honored tradition of Chinese acrobatics that has been around for over 2,500 years. It is a show that Johnson hopes serves as both entertaining and educational. “We are here to educate, too,” she said. “We hope we have some young people come out. Our mission is to promote the arts as well as entertain. We are really excited.”

October 2015 • A25

HooverSun.com

Bluff Park Art Show enters 52nd year By DANNI ZHOU As show chairs Jeff Pierson and Cathy Wheeler prepare for the 52nd Annual Bluff Park Art Show, they’re expecting crowds of 8,000 to 10,000 visitors. “We have so many patrons coming who were brought to the show by their parents or grandparents, and now they are bringing their children,” Pierson said. “The show has a national reputation, but because we are a one-day show, we generally draw [artists] from the Southeast and Midwest primarily.” This year, the art show will be held on Oct. 3 in Shades Cliff Park, colloquially known as Bluff Park, at 517 Cloudland Drive. It will feature the original work of 140 artists. The free event invites visitors to examine displays throughout the park, talk with the artists and purchase pieces. Donations are accepted at bluffparkartassociation.org, and proceeds are placed in the Endowment Fund dedicated to help fund future philanthropy. “I expect this [year’s] show to be a continuation of a long line of successful shows uniting artists, patrons, volunteers,and art lovers,” Pierson said. Originally, a group of mothers, many of whom were artists, founded the Art Association and organized the show to raise funds to equip the Bluff Park Elementary School library. The show has since been hosted annually and the association has become a nonprofit with several philanthropic efforts. “Suburban life often lacks in the availability of easy access to the arts,” Pierson said. “The show is an asset for

Hank Simpson is a clay artist who participates in the Bluff Park Art Show. Photo courtesy of Jeff Pierson.

the city due to the nature of the show and the reputation it has garnered over the years as a show of great quality and integrity.” For artists, the art show is a juried show, with a rotating membership for the jury. Interested artists of all ages must apply and submit three examples of their work at juriedartservices.com.

A panel of jurors then blindly examines the submissions, voting strictly on the quality of the images, and narrows down the artists to invite to the actual show. Categories span across almost every medium, including clay, painting, multi-media in 2D and 3D, sculpture, woodworking, printmaking,

photography, metalworking, fiber, jewelry, glass, graphite and pastel. If artists wish to exhibit work in more than one category, they must apply and be juried into the show for each specific category. “This will be my third year participating in the show; however, I have attended the show for the past

30 years,” artist Sherri Van Pelt said. “[This year,] my work is in kilnformed glass. I did a collaborative piece with 90 children at Vacation Bible School at Southminster Presbyterian Church. It is in the kiln as we speak. The piece is a gift for a young girl who recently had a heart transplant.” “I will be showcasing jewelry. I was inspired by my late cousin, Edgar Grant, [who was a] Holocaust survivor and an incredibly strong and gentle man,” said Barbara Dollar, who has participated for five years. “I make most pieces using antique sterling silver spoons, vintage pocket and wrist watch cases and copper sheet.” Five-year participant Brittany Carol Moore will be showing artwork created by transferring photos onto stained glass. The pieces of glass she uses were formerly part of the windows in Kimberly Church of God, which was hit by a tornado passing through Kimberly in spring 2014. The glass was recovered from the rubble and is “now taking on new life and purpose.” “I love for people to make their own stories about my work. I may have my own idea about it, but countless interpretations are possible as most of my images have a surreal quality,” Moore said. In the future, the Bluff Park Art Show is planned to further surpass its 52nd year. Pierson credits the city, school system, donors and volunteers for the show’s long-running success. “We are proud that the show has touched so many people and exposed them to original art and the artists who create it,” Pierson said.

A26 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

October events

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

Hoover Hayride & Family Night Oct. 29, 5 - 8 p.m. Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road The City of Hoover will host this annual family-friendly event held on Thursday, Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This free event includes hayrides around the park, food vendors, music, games, balloon artists, face painting and a large exhibitor pavilion where children can gather treats from more than 80 Hoover Chamber of Commerce members. Costumes encouraged and parking will be available Spain Park High School with complimentary shuttles. Visit hooveral.org. The Hoover Hayride & Family Night is a free event that features hayrides around Veterans Park. Photo courtesy of Erin Colbaugh.

Shades Crest Craft Fair

Shop, Save and Share

Oct. 3 Shades Crest Baptist Church 452 Park Avenue Shades Crest Baptist Church will host its annual Craft Fair on Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s planned on the same day as the Bluff Park Art Show to bring in more visitors. The church uses this as an opportunity to open their doors to the community, raise funds for their Nicaraguan mission project and to allow people to use their talents to earn additional income from the sales. The table fee is $20 and the vendors will keep all the proceeds for the items they sell. For more information, call 822-1360 or visit Shadescrest.org.

MedCenter HOOVER

5RGENT #ARE s &AMILY -EDICINE

Oct. 21 - Nov. 1 Various stores and restaurants around Hoover This event is in its 10th year and presented by The Junior League of Birmingham. Purchase a $40 card and receive a 20 percent discount to over 550 retailers, including nearly 100 in the Hoover area. This charity shopping event runs from Oct. 21-Nov. 1. Last year was the biggest event yet, and raised over $100,000 to benefit around 30 projects of the Junior League of Birmingham. Cards can be purchased either online or from selected retail partners. Visit shopsaveandshare.net. Bridget Veazey, store manager at Wrapsody, and Frankie Gettings, design consultant at IO Metro, will participate in Shop, Save and Share 2015. Photo courtesy of the Lollar Group.

HooverSun.com

Restaurants Give Back Day Oct. 19 As part of the fifth annual Taste of the Magic City, Restaurant GiveBack Day will be held Monday, Oct. 19. A host of Birmingham area restaurants, coffee shops and bars, including some in Hoover, will donate a portion of their day’s sales to M-POWER Ministries, a non-profit in Avondale working to break the cycle of poverty through education and health services.

Keeping Kids Safe Online Parent Chat at Hunter Street Baptist Church, 2600 John Hawkins Pkwy Oct. 25 Parent Chat founders Matt McKee and Adam Duckworth will lead this two-hour seminar. This free event is designed to help equip families to understand the online world for kids and students and help them establish boundaries and a healthy plan for maximizing the good out of technology. It will take place Sunday, Oct. 25 at 6 p.m. at Hunter Street. Parents can register online and submit questions they would like to see answered at the event. Visit 985-7295 or visit hunterstreet.org/parentchat.

October 2015 • A27

Costume Party at the Senior Center Oct. 30, 1 - 2 p.m. City of Hoover Senior Center, 400 Municipal Drive The Hoover Senior Center will host the Thrills and Chills Halloween Event on Friday, Oct. 30 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the auditorium of the Hoover Senior Center. The event is a fun opportunity for the seniors to dress up in costumes and enjoy treats and Halloween festivities. A costume contest will also take place. The deadline to register for this event is Oct. 26 at noon. Sign up in person or call 739-6700. This event is free to senior center members. For more information, call 739-6767 or visit hooveralabama. gov/parksandrecreation. The Thrills and Chills Halloween Event will feature a costume contest for seniors. Photo courtesy of Tracy Vinzant.

Grace on the Bluff Oct. 3, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Bluff Park Baptist Church, 2211 McGwier Drive The American Village, 3727 Highway 119 Bluff Park Baptist Church will host its annual “Grace on the Bluff” on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is set up like a yard sale, but all the items are free. Items are collected from church members and placed on the front lawn of the church. The church uses this as an opportunity for evangelism and to serve those in the community. For more information, call 822-3240 or visit bluffparkbaptist.org/grace-on-the-bluff-2015. “Grace on the Bluff” is set up like a yard sale, but all the items are free. Photo courtesy of Meg Fenn.

A28 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Hoover/Shelby Art Association plans fall show

Herb Patterson prepares his artwork for the Hoover/Shelby Art Association Fall Show. Photo courtesy of Herb Patterson.

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE The Hoover/Shelby Art Association is changing things up this year for their fall show. Instead of a one-day show in Chelsea, the artists will have a month long display at the Shelby County Arts Center in Columbiana. “We have been having our show in Chelsea for the last three years,” said Association President Edna Sealey. “This year, we decided to have it somewhere else.” With an opening reception scheduled for Oct. 9, the exhibit will run until Nov. 9. Artist Herb Patterson of Hoover is in his third year with the Hoover/Shelby Art Association. In his first show in the spring of 2014, his mobiles won first prize in the craft section. Patterson said he likes the idea of a longer exhibit. He said it’s also great that the gallery employees take care of the sales for them. “I think it’s a good opportunity for us,” he

said. “When you do a one-day show, it’s kind of intense with putting up the tent and artwork and getting everything there and displaying it and taking it down. This will be a lot less work, and each artist can have four or five pieces on display and for sale.” Patterson specializes in hanging mobiles and has been making them for about five years. He uses items like prisms and glass in his creations. He has a unique way to display them at the SCAC. “I made a wire suspension that comes out from the wall so the mobiles can twirl and move, but take up a small amount of wall space,” he said. “They are made in the (Alexander) Calder style. I picked up on that and loved putting them together. I’m a physics and math major and was looking for an artistic outlet.” For more information, visit hoovershelbyart. com.

The third annual Hoover Cup golf tournament is set for Oct. 19 at the Inverness Country Club. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Hoover Cup returns By JON ANDERSON The Hoover Parks and Recreation Foundation is holding its third annual Hoover Cup golf tournament at the Inverness Country Club on Oct. 19. The tournament is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start and four-person scramble format, parks and recreation superintendent Dee Nance said. The cost is $125 per golfer or $500 per team. Sponsoring a hole costs $150, or $100 if combined with a team registration. The proceeds will help fund two projects: a new bay of swings at Hoover Sports Park

East playground and a veteran memorial monument at Aldridge Gardens. The winning team will receive four rounds of golf at the Inverness Country Club, Reiss said. A $10,000 prize is available to anyone who gets a hole in one on either of two designated holes, Nance said. There will be other door prizes, including golf rounds and Alabama-Auburn game tickets, and competitions for drive and putting skills. To register for the tournament, sponsor a hole, donate door prizes, or get more information, contact Nance at 444-7765 or email her at nanced@ci.hoover.al.us.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • A29

Schools foundation launches Hoover+Ready By JON ANDERSON The Hoover City Schools Foundation has launched a new campaign to raise awareness about the Hoover school system and solicit funding and involvement by Hoover businesses, residents and alumni. The campaign, called “Hoover+Ready,” is designed to re-energize the Hoover community so that Hoover schools can continue to provide an exceptional education in challenging economic times, said Janet Turner, executive director for the foundation. The foundation will become more active in trying to tell the story of what is happening in Hoover schools, both the good and the bad, Turner said. There are many successes to applaud, such as the facts that seven of the past 19 Alabama Teachers of the Year have come from Hoover City Schools and one out of three graduates from the system has taken a college course before graduation, Turner said. However, “I think there’s a misperception that Hoover City Schools doesn’t need more money and has plenty of revenues, and the fact is that funding is getting cut every year,” she said. The Hoover school board on Sept. 14 passed a 2016 budget that calls for expenditures to exceed revenues by $10.4 million – the latest in a string of deficit budgets. “If we want our schools to continue to be great, we need all the community to step up,” Turner said. The Hoover City Schools Foundation each year provides grants to teachers to help fund innovative projects and this July gave out $22,000 in grants, she said. Right now, each of the grants is limited to $2,000, she said. “We want to be able to do much bigger

projects,” she said. There’s a need for Hoover businesses, foundations and residents to make donations. The foundation has created a new website – hoovercsf. org, which includes a place on the site to make donations, Turner said. However, “it’s not all about the money,” she said. The foundation also wants to help forge more partnerships between the business community and schools to provide job shadowing and internship opportunities for students. The foundation also will take a more active role in reaching out to Hoover alumni to engage their help. Superintendent Kathy Murphy said the Hoover+Ready initiative falls in line with the school district’s goals of preparing students for college and careers and giving them a substantial education. City Council President Jack Wright, who also attended the Hoover+Ready launch, said the school system certainly has its challenges right now. “You’ve got to address a challenge to change, and you’ve got to change for the better,” Wright said. The foundation’s efforts will be a good step toward that, he said. “You eat the elephant one bite at a time,” he said. Some people have suggested the city do something to increase its funding of the school system after making dramatic cuts in school funding in 2009. Mayor Gary Ivey said he has no discussions with Murphy about changing the city’s allocation for schools, which has been set at $2 million a year since 2009. The school district has a very solid reserve right now, and the superintendent is very committed to bringing the school system’s

Superintendent Kathy Murphy speaks at the launch of the Hoover+Ready initiative. Photo by Jon Anderson.

budget in line, he said. Wright said he is confident in school officials’ ability to deal with their budget issues. However, “the city and the schools are partners,” he said. “The future of our children and the success of our schools are critical for Hoover.” Mike Anderson, a resident of Lake Cyrus with children at Bumpus Middle School and Hoover

High School, came to the Hoover+Ready launch and said the initiative is a great idea. “I don’t think there are a lot of people who know there is a Hoover City Schools Foundation,” Anderson said. This is the first step in increasing awareness and getting the word out about needs in the system, he said.

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A30 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

WHISPERS

CONTINUED from page A1

Whispers from the Past

curriculum in Alabama schools, we wanted Whispers to authentically present the prehistoric and historic Alabama cultures as a fun and learning event for every age.” According to Wilson, Whispers visitors can observe numerous demonstrations including flintknapping, shell carving, pine needle basket-making and Native American games. Vendors will offer such items as handmade flutes, woven cane baskets, handmade bows and arrows, jewelry, artwork, pottery, Indian commemorative coins and artifacts. Authentic food items sold in the Maize Food Court vary from Indian tacos to fry bread to roasted corn, she said. There will be the “Bean Woman” puppet show and the Three Sisters Garden created especially for the event and containing corn, beans and squash. Hands-on crafts for ages 18 and under will include beading, Cherokee leaf pounding, clay coil pots, gourd crafting, corn grinding and an artifact hunt, she said. William “Chip” Wente has participated in Whispers four times, where his demonstrations have included historic hunting and fishing techniques and tools, food preservation methods and cooking with homemade pots and a river cane grill. “I give an initial disclaimer about the [hunting] methods because they can be so extreme,” Wente said. “By today’s standards these techniques would seem brutal, but the objective was to get as much game as possible to put food on the table. The Native Americans were blessed that all they needed was around them, but it didn’t come in a Styrofoam container. They had to go out and get it.” One of the highlights of Whispers is the Medicine Tail Dancers and Singers, who will “not only entertain but also educate” the Aldridge Garden audiences so they “walk away with a better understanding of our history and culture,” said the group’s leader, Alex Alvarez. Comprised of representatives of the Creek, Coushatta, Choctaw, Houma and other Native American tribes, the Atmore-based troupe performs powwow dancing from a number of different tribes. The group travels the country to take part in competitions and has performed in a variety of events from the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to the World Eskimo Indian Olympics in Fairbanks, Alaska. Alvarez, a member of the Poarch band of Creek Indians and teacher of Native American culture, said group members also encourage a lot of audience participation.

Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aldridge Gardens Tickets: $10 (adults), $5 (children) 682-8019 “Being America’s original inhabitants, the Native American is stereotyped a lot — I can’t tell you how many children have asked if we live in teepees or hunt buffalo,” he said. “This festival is a wonderful way to dispel myths and misconceptions about our people by connecting with the audience. If you think about it, I or others in our group might be the only Native American a child ever meets.” Veronica Davenport, a Green Valley Elementary instructional support teacher, visited Whispers for the first time last year and said the fun she had and the knowledge she was able to share with her students will bring her back this year. She used photos from the 2014 festival to supplement one of her classroom programs, “Visualizing and Verbalizing,” which encourages students to read book passages then visualize what they see in their heads. “Their eyes got so big in amazement and fascination, and we had long discussions about how different things are today, when we just go to the grocery store rather than having to find and grow food or make everything we use,” Davenport said. “This experience really helps the children visualize what things were like and how they have changed.” Janelle Whetstone, who resides in Riverchase and is of Native American descent, said there is something for everyone at Whispers From the Past. “Not only are there a lot of Native Americans in Alabama, but many people may have Native American blood somewhere in their background, yet never explored the culture,” Whetstone said. “Whispers gives you a great hands-on and interesting opportunity to do just that.” Whispers From the Past, which drew more than 1,500 visitors last year, will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 4, with an Oct. 11 rain date. Entry is $10 for adults and $5 for children, with those 2 years and under free. Offsite parking will be at Bed Bath & Beyond, Lorna Road, with free trolleys running continuously from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information about Whispers From the Past, go to aldridgegardens.com or call 682-8019.

A display of equipment used for Native American hunting and fishing is one of several exhibits festival attendees can expect to see at Aldridge Gardens’ Whispers From the Past. Photo courtesy of Aldridge Gardens.

October 2015 • A31

HooverSun.com

Revenue per Pupil

BUDGET

CONTINUED from page A1 Murphy told the school board she felt very uncomfortable presenting a $10.4 budget deficit for approval, but staffing levels for the current fiscal year were set back in April, before she was hired. Murphy, who did not start as superintendent until June, said she needs time to figure out ways to address the issue. Personnel costs make up the vast majority of the school system’s budget, and work already has begun to figure out how to staff Hoover’s schools at a more sustainable level, she said. The 2016 budget passed on Sept. 14 includes 60 new employees, even though enrollment is down by about 60 students this year to about 13,840. Thirty-two of those new employees are support personnel, and many of them are custodian positions brought back in-house after two years of contracting out custodial services. Another 23 new positions are teachers.

Enrollment

Murphy said she also wants to study expenditures for overtime, travel, cell phones and technology and examine potential ways to increase revenue, she said. The bottom line is that Hoover’s revenues are declining, and the gap between revenues and expenditures is widening. Certain characteristics have made Hoover a unique and excellent school system, such as smaller class sizes and a wide array of extracurricular and academic activities, Murphy said. But school officials must be able to pay their bills, she said. “We’re really at a point where our community needs to say to us what you expect from us, and are you willing to fund that?” Murphy said. It’s unfair to have high expectations for a school district but not be willing to fund it, she said. School board President Derrick Murphy said the superintendent needs a full fiscal year to evaluate the school system’s needs and to find efficient and innovative ways to balance the budget. “We have new leadership, and we have a leader that wants to get this thing done right,”

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Derrick Murphy said. “With state and federal funding continuing to be reduced every single year, that’s something you can’t control, but we can prepare for it, and she’s going to prepare for it … I feel certain we’re going to make some changes next year.” Board member Stephen Presley reminded the board that former Superintendent Andy Craig told the board a year ago that it might take three to five years to get the budget balanced. Cathy Antee, the school district’s chief financial officer, noted that online classes offer opportunities to decrease personnel costs. Former Hoover Councilman Jody Patterson said during a public hearing on the budget that when he hears the words “revenue generation,” his chest starts to hurt. “I hear increased property taxes. I hear increased sales taxes,” Patterson said. “I think it scares a lot of older people in Hoover. We don’t want any more taxes.” When he was a student at Berry High School in the 1970s, the overall sales tax in Hoover was 5 percent, he said. Today, it’s 9 percent in the

part of Hoover that is in Jefferson County and 8 percent in the part of Hoover in Shelby County. Dan Fulton, a resident of Hoover’s Bluff Park community who has long pushed for a 1-cent sales tax increase to benefit Hoover schools, said such an increase would generate $20 million a year for the school system and enable it to build a third high school and provide pre-kindergarten classes at all of Hoover’s elementary schools. Fulton said the best tax is no tax, but “I think it would be a super investment.” The $157 million in projected revenues this year is down from $170 million in 2008 and doesn’t show any signs of getting back to that level. This year’s budget represents a 2 percent drop in local revenues, 1.7 percent drop in federal revenues and 1 percent drop in state revenues. Revenue received per student has fallen from $13,715 per student in 2008 to an expected $11,288 in 2016, Antee said. The amount coming from the state’s foundation program has dropped from $4,488 per student in 2008 to an expected $4,237 in 2016. The expected expenditures of $168 million for fiscal 2016 are up $1.3 million (or less than 1 percent) from the 2015 budget. Transportation operations are expected to cost the Hoover school system $6.7 million in 2016, but the state provides only $4.9 million, leaving Hoover to cover a $1.8 million shortfall, Antee said. Hoover officials expect to begin fiscal 2016 on Oct. 1 with $83.3 million, giving them plenty of cushion to handle a $10.4 million budget deficit this year. School officials expect to end fiscal 2016 with $72.9 million in the bank, which is enough to cover five months’ worth of expenses. Antee said the big question that needs to be answered is what level of fund balance is appropriate for Hoover schools. School board member Craig Kelley said the purpose of the fund balance is not to support operational budget deficits but to help the school system have money in reserves in case the state declares proration and cuts funding. The superintendent said she wants to hear from Hoover residents about what they want from their school system and whether they are willing to pay for it.

Sun B SECTION

School House B6 Sports B11 Home Guide B14 Calendar B26

OCTOBER 2015

Homebrewers join Uncorked! On the Green

By ERICA TECHO Alongside craft beers and wines at Uncorked! On the Green, guests will have the chance to sample one-of-a-kind homebrews. Uncorked changes every year, said coordinator Audrey Alverson, but this is the first time homebrewers are joining the festivities at the Green at Ross Bridge. “The homebrew competition [Master of the Brew] will even add to our beer sampling because this is in conjunction with Avondale Brewery and Hop City,” Alverson said. “So there’s a professional judging panel, and the top 25 will be able to showcase their beer at Uncorked.” Matt Kilpatrick, brand manager for wholesale distributer and Uncorked sponsor AlaBev, said one of their brewers attended a similarly set-up event a few years ago. Bringing homebrew side-by-side with nationally distributed

beers helped connect the styles, Kilpatrick said. “He gave the nod and said that it was one of the best brew festivals he had ever seen,” Kilpatrick said. “We think that this will kind of help bridge the gap.” Along with the Master of the Brew competition, there will be more than 50 craft beers and dozens of wines available for sampling. By providing an atmosphere focused on tastings and information, Kilpatrick said Uncorked allows people to learn more about beer in a responsible manner. The number of beers available also helps visitors find a beer they enjoy. “Our favorite customers are the ones who have the guts to come up to the tent and they will tell you they’re not beer people,” Kilpatrick said. Anyone seeking the perfect beer can answer a few questions about the food and drinks they enjoy, Kilpatrick said, and the workers at the tasting tents will help find a match. “There is a whole gamut of flavor sensations,

A standard homebrew setup includes a pot to heat the water and steep the grain. Photo by Erica Techo.

and we just like to open people’s minds,” he said. Adding homebrew tasting also helps build the homebrewing community. Homebrewer Charley Hicks said he enjoys finding out when friends or acquaintances brew their own beer because they can all learn from each other’s experiences. “It’s almost like an art form, and so being able to share with other people who are creating something that’s not just about getting a little tipsy is great,” he said. Uncorked is a family event, and there will be more than alcohol to attract attendees.

Instead of the usual bands at the event, there will be a DJ atop an 18-foot-high platform stage at Uncorked. “In past years we’ve had two stages, and people are so focused on the total event they don’t really focus on the band,” Alverson said. DJ Mickey Nightrain will perform alongside contortionists, flag twirlers and stilt walkers from Modern Gypsies Productions on the stage. The performers will also wander through the event,

See HOMEBREWERS | page B24

B2 • October

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October 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B3

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B4 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Not alone in the fight Walk to raise money for genetic disorder research By ROY L. WILLIAMS

Lorol Rediker of Birmingham will be celebrated as the 2015 Alabama NF Walk Hero. Photo courtesy of Renie Moss.

Angela Kerper was only 2 years old when doctors found an inoperable brain tumor. Her mother, Hoover resident Kim Kerper, remembers the moment clearly. “When doctors first diagnosed a tumor in her, it was so aggressive they didn’t think she would live to see age 3,” Kerper said. Her daughter was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF), a genetic disorder of the nervous system that can cause tumors to form on nerves anywhere in the body at any time. NF is a common genetic disorder that affects 1 in 2,500 to 3,000 births, affecting more than 100,000 Americans, making it more prevalent that cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy and Huntingdon’s disease combined. There is no cure for NF. Angela’s brain tumor was inoperable, so it was treated over several years with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. A few years later, Kerper’s youngest son, Michael, was also

diagnosed with NF and had his tumors surgically removed. “Since there is no cure, these are some of the ways the tumors can be treated, although, unfortunately for some, even these treatments cannot help the person,” Kerper said. Angela is now 27 and is visually impaired. Michael, 20, has coped with the disease and is now in college at Troy University. Despite the obstacles, Kerper is grateful both of her children battling NF are still alive. “As parents it hurts to see what Angela and Michael have to go through, as well as others,” Kerper said. “It takes a lot of prayer. We have to remain positive. We can’t be negative or resentful.” Families who deal with NF are a close-knit community. In 2014, the Kerpers met Vestavia Hills residents Philip and Renie Moss at the Alabama NF Walk they organized. The Moss’ son, Philip Jr., was diagnosed with NF in September 2011, after a simple surgery was supposed to remove what they thought

October 2015 • B5

HooverSun.com

The 2014 Alabama NF Walk honored children and adults with NF. This year, the walk will be at Veterans Park. Photo courtesy of Renie Moss.

Second Annual Alabama NF Walk

Philip Moss, Jr. was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis at 6 years old. He and his sister Helen participated in the first Alabama NF Walk in 2014, which their parents organized. Photo courtesy of Renie Moss.

was a swollen lymph node. Then 6 years old, Philip had only been in his kindergarten class in Vestavia Hills for a few weeks. Philip, now 10, continues to battle the genetic disorder, with a tumor growing on his neck that doctors have not been able to stop. “It’s been difficult, but we are working hard to make sure that NF does not define us,” his mother said. Last year, Renie Moss joined with the Children’s Tumor Foundation to host the Alabama NF Walk, with a goal to raise funds to support needed clinical research to benefit those battling NF. This year, the second annual Alabama NF Walk will take place Sunday, Oct. 18 at Veterans Park. “Last year we expected 150 to participate and

to raise $10,000; we had over 450 participants show up and raised $53,000,” Moss said. “We expect another big crowd this year and appreciate the public’s support.” The Alabama NF Walk will be family-friendly, featuring a walk and activities for people of all ages. The event will honor Lorol Rediker, age 4, of Birmingham as its NF Hero. “She was diagnosed at age 2 but is a great success story. Her tumor is gone due to effective chemotherapy treatments made possible by NF clinical research,” Moss said. Two identical twin brothers with NF, Tom and Jon Godwin of Shelby, Alabama, will be honored as the 2015 NF Champions “for continuing to overcome obstacles and challenges of living with NF with hope and determination,” Moss said.

Though there is no known cure for NF, Moss remains hopeful. Her son was accepted into a clinical trial with the National Institutes of Health. In August, Philip and his parents traveled to Bethesda, Maryland, to meet with the doctors who are conducting the trial. Prior to leaving, Moss expressed optimism. “After countless MRIs and treatments that haven’t been working, we aren’t giving up hope,” Moss said. “We’ve been on the waiting list for this trial since April 25. The NF community is very close-knit. We’re getting such support from all over the country and are grateful. It is our joy to support the Alabama NF community and newly diagnosed families so that they know they are not alone in this fight.”

Oct. 18, 1 p.m. Hoover’s Veterans Park, 4800 Valleydale Road Games and activities for all ages. Leashed dogs welcome. $20 adults, $10 for children age 4-12, free for ages 3 and under, $5 per dog. nfwalk.org/Alabama Why: Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic disorder of the nervous system that causes tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in the body at any time. This progressive disorder affects all races, all ethnic groups and both sexes equally. NF is one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States (one in every 2,500 to 3,000 births). The effects of NF are unpredictable and have varying degrees of severity. There is no known cure for any form of NF

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Hoover Sun

Hoover Homecoming Week Sept. 14-18

(Right) Juniors and seniors compete in a powder puff football game for homecoming week. Photo by Jeremy Lipsey/Hoover High School.

Kaleb Gibbs, kneeling at left, and Caleb Croushorn play laser tag as part of homecoming week festivities. Photo by Jon Anderson.

Brennen Milliron, at left, and Justin Thomas play a ďŹ&#x201A;ying disc game. Photo by Jon Anderson.

Male students at Hoover High act as cheerleaders for the powder puff football game. Photo by Jeremy Lipsey/Hoover High School. Nathan Wall and Kelly Winters were crowned homecoming king and queen during the Hoover-Thompson game. The Bucs won 31-14. Photo by Barry Stephenson.

October 2015 • B7

HooverSun.com

Spain Park HomecomingWeek Sept. 7-11

Freshmen and sophomore girls compete in a powderpuff football game as part of the homecoming week. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Freshmen cheer on their teammates in a powderpuff football game. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Senior Jordan DeSantis was crowned the 2015 homecoming queen. Photo by Ted Melton.

Spain Park student Joe Mote during one of the school’s dress-up days. Photo by Jahina Somo.

The Spain Park band and cheerleaders perform during the homecoming bonﬁre. Photo by Erica Techo.

Homecoming festivities were capped off with a bonﬁre. Photo by Erica Techo.

B8 • October 2015

School rezoning talks soon to begin again in Hoover

By JON ANDERSON The “r” word is returning to Hoover schools, and no, we’re not talking about reading, writing or arithmetic. It’s time to talk about rezoning, new Hoover Schools Superintendent Kathy Murphy told the school board on Sept. 14. Murphy said she plans to begin having meetings with communities throughout the city to discuss redrawing attendance zones for Hoover schools. “We realize that the whole conversation of rezoning is a painful one for us to even talk about but is nevertheless a conversation we need to have,” Murphy said. “It’s a necessary step … It may re-stir some passions and tough conversations, but these are conversations we’re going to need to have.” The U.S. Department of Justice, which reviews any plans for redrawing school zones, also has been visiting Hoover schools and talking with school officials about rezoning, Murphy said. Justice Department officials, because of a decades-old desegregation federal court order, must consider the impact that rezoning would have on the integration of school children by race. The federal court must give approval for any rezoning before it can take effect, and the Justice Department provides its opinion to the federal court. Also, U.S. District Judge Madeline Haikala in November advised both the Hoover and Jefferson County school systems that she wanted to examine

Former Hoover school Superintendent Andy Craig’s rezoning proposal would have affected children in at least a dozen single-family residence communities and 10 apartment complexes. Rendering courtesy of Hoover City Schools.

all aspects of the two systems. This would reveal whether they still need federal court supervision or whether they have effectively implemented desegregation efforts to the point where federal supervision is no longer necessary. That review includes an examination of the racial composition of student attendance zones, racial composition of the faculty and staff at each

school, transportation, facilities and extra-curricular activities. Both the Justice Department and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, who are parties to a longstanding Jefferson County desegregation case, also are being asked by Haikala to weigh in on those matters. The NAACP Legal Defense Fund already has started reviewing information provided by Hoover City Schools

and visited Hoover schools earlier this year. Justice Department officials also visited some Hoover schools in February, but Murphy did not join the Hoover system as superintendent until June. One particular school of interest to the Justice Department is the former Berry High School campus, which is now partially used as the Crossroads alternative school.

Hoover Sun

The city of Hoover in April made an offer to buy the 35-acre campus for $9 million with the idea of turning it into an athletic complex. Justice Department officials want to know where the Crossroads alternative school students who use the campus now would be relocated and what the Hoover school system would do with the money from the sale of the campus, Murphy said. And Hoover school officials want to make sure they don’t have a need for the campus themselves before they sell it, she said. But Murphy emphasized that rezoning is not just something spurred by talks with the Justice Department. Hoover has some school buildings, such as Deer Valley Elementary School, that are near capacity and others, such as Trace Crossings Elementary School, that are nowhere near capacity. School attendance zones need to be redrawn to help the school system better utilize its buildings, she said. Rezoning talks in past years have stirred strong emotions in parents, who are deeply invested in where their children attend school. Murphy said she knows some people are concerned about reigniting a controversial issue, but it’s one that can’t be ignored and must be addressed. She reminded the school board at its Sept. 14 meeting that when she was hired, she promised she would listen to the community’s concerns, and it would be a big mistake not to hear what they have to say about rezoning, she said.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • B9

Spain Park High adds new IT, Finance academies By ROY L. WILLIAMS Starting this fall, students at Spain Park High School have a new opportunity to gain exposure to what it’s like to work in the information technology (IT) and finance fields. Spain Park has added a Finance Academy and IT Academy option for its 1,650 students. These options join career academies already available for the 2015-16 school year, such as law, engineering and health science. “It’s another opportunity for our students to be engaged in a passion that they like and become leaders in our school,” Principal Larry Giangrosso said. “All students need to learn how to manage their finances more effectively. Through the Finance Academy, they will learn there are so many career pathways they can take. With IT, we’ve got students here who are way far ahead of the curve on technology.” IT Academy instructor Jane Bruce spent the past four years as an instructor at Hoover High School’s award-winning IT Academy. Finance Academy instructor Jill Bertella spent the previous two years as a Spain Park co-op and career prep teacher. “Both of these teachers are the best in their field, and we are happy to have them,” Giangrosso said. “They are not only great teachers, but wonderful people.” Bruce has created a website link for Spain Park’s new IT and Finance academies, sphsbiz.com, that provides information to ensure both programs

Jane Bruce teaches students in the IT Academy at Spain Park. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

are successful. She encouraged businesses and individuals interested in supporting the new academies to go to the website for information on how to help. They currently need volunteers for guest speakers, Future Business Leaders of America competition preparation and job shadowing opportunities. Bertella said in researching for the Finance Academy, she discovered 22 percent of students at the University of Alabama major in business. At

Auburn University, 19 percent of students major in business. “So there is a huge need at Spain Park for this academy as we prepare these students for future careers,” she said. “The curriculum will give our students a leg up when they go to college.” It also can be personally helpful to students. “Through our Finance Academy, we are creating knowledgeable consumers, giving students information

they need to make wise decisions daily with their money. We dabbled in financial literacy in our Career Development course in ninth grade, and it was really eye-opening how little children know about the basics of saving and how to manage your money,” Bertella said. The IT Academy will give Spain Park students who participate a competitive advantage, no matter what career they choose, Bruce said. “If you can be that employee who

knows how to troubleshoot your own computer problems, it sets you apart,” she said. “You can be more productive in your workday because you don’t have barriers to understanding and troubleshooting technology as others do. You can fix your own problems.” The IT Academy will offer courses in basic computer skills, graphic design and web design, networking, programming and database management, Bruce said. Students will have the opportunity to earn skill certification in various programs. Bruce anticipates between 100 and 120 students in the academy. The IT Academy will incorporate hands-on learning and field trips. Students will visit places such as the National Computer Forensic Institute in Hoover, tech business incubator Innovation Depot, web-design company Kinetic and Teklinks, a managed IT and cloud services company. The Finance Academy will start off with 40 students this year and include courses in business and personal finance, accounting and entrepreneurship. The goal is for senior members of the Finance Academy to get internships to prepare them for future careers. Bruce said the academies, like others available at Spain Park, offer many benefits to students. “The academies help build confidence, earn certifications, develop leadership skills, attain work experience, network with in-field professionals and provide community service,” Bruce said.

B10 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Twenty Questions Hoover High School and Spain Park look ahead to the Scholar’s Bowl season By OLIVIA BURTON Scholars Bowl is not just useless trivia. Coach Joshua Rutsky of the Hoover High School Scholars Bowl team and Coach Todd Parker of the Spain Park High School team have seen that proven many times. “We provide a framework that allows students to connect subjects from five or six different classes and build new knowledge from that,” said Rutsky. For example, Rutsky explained, a player who understands architecture would understand both the history and physics of architecture as well as certain styles of architecture. He or she might then recognize the relationship between the literary structure of 18th century novels and symmetrical Palladian architecture. Parker sees Scholars Bowl as a way for students to develop an interest in the pursuit of knowledge. “I didn’t know anything about opera until I began studying this year with the Scholar’s Bowl team, and now I want to know more about it,” he said. “The more you learn, the richer life can be.” Scholars Bowl also helps students build character by teaching them to work hard and avoid being selfish in a team setting, Parker said. Recent Hoover High School graduate Beryl Van Ness, who will begin studying studio art at the University of Central Florida this fall, believes that her experience in Scholars Bowl

(Left to right) Joon Shin, Danny Johns, Beryl Van Ness and Madison Papp show off one of the Hoover Scholars Bowl team’s many trophies. Photo courtesy of Danae Argyropoulou.

throughout high school helped prepare her for college, even though she is not sure what she will be doing. “Learning how to pull a group together, motivate people to do their best and have fun at the same time was a really valuable experience,” she said. “I think it’s something that every kid needs to do in high school, at least in some form.” In a Scholars Bowl match, two teams of four players compete to answer toss-up questions as early as possible while still getting the correct answer. Most matches include 20

questions. If a team answers correctly, they receive points and an opportunity to answer a three-part bonus question. Because questions can cover any subject, Scholars Bowl team members usually specialize in particular subjects. “Generally speaking, a strong team is going to have one specialist in literature, one in history, one who’s strong in the sciences, and one person who picks up everything else,” said Rutsky. “Each player has to complement the rest of the team.” Hoover High School senior Joon

Shin specializes in science and music. Moving from Berry Middle School to Hoover High School, Shin found the Scholars Bowl team to be an opportunity to join a close group of friends. “It’s like a family,” he said, explaining that older students act as mentors to new students and freshmen on the team. As coaches, Rutsky and Parker lead Scholars Bowl classes and practices, oversee fundraising, organize transportation to tournaments, make sure the team’s equipment is in good condition, maintain updated practice

material and recruit new members. Spain Park’s team was new last year, while Hoover High School has had a Scholars Bowl class for several years. “If we are going to compete with some of the other top-notch schools in the state, meeting a few times after school each week is not going to allow us to be competitive,” said Parker. With consistently strong teams and high expectations for the season that began in August, the Scholars Bowl teams of Hoover High School and Spain Park respect each other while participating in a friendly rivalry. “Of the 10 most recent state championships, seven of them went to Hoover City Schools with Spain Park having two,” said Rutsky. “So it’s very much a Hoover-dominated sport.” Rutsky said he was impressed with the Spain Park team and called them the “odds-on favorites” to be state champions this year. Since Spain Park’s team had no seniors last year, their entire team will be returning. On the other hand, Parker called Hoover High School’s Scholars Bowl team the “premier program in Alabama.” “This guy is Scholars Bowl,” he said of Rutsky. “Even though we have rival schools, we have a good friendship and a lot of respect for each other.” Ultimately, Parker said, both teams are doing their best to have fun and represent the entire school system.

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October 2015 • B11

Sports Spain Park Football Recap

Spain Park’s Will Greene (88) celebrates a touchdown against Hueytown with Jaguar teammates Will Mullins (50) and David Kimani (64). Photo by Ted Melton

Season opens with triple-overtime loss Game 1, 8/21

AUSTIN 38, SPAIN PARK 35 (3 OTs) Despite a strong performance by a pair of fleet-footed running backs, a powerful offensive line and a courageous quarterback, the Spain Park Jaguars suffered a heartbreaking season-opening loss to the Austin Black Bears at Decatur’s Ogle Stadium. Austin secured the victory on kicker Ivan Torres’ 18-yard field goal in triple overtime. “I thought both teams played their tails off, that’s all you can ask,” Spain Park coach Shawn Raney said. “We’ve just got to become better football players and do what we’re supposed to do, but I’m proud of them.” In the loss, Jags’ senior Joey Beatty made a sensational debut in his first career start under center, throwing for nearly 250 yards and two touchdowns. Beatty demonstrated quick decision-making ability, along with accuracy and arm strength. “He’s not going to make many mistakes, and he’ll come up with some plays for us,” Raney said. “I think he’ll continue to get better because he’s a good worker and a good kid.” Spain Park trailed Austin 14-7 at the half, but continually battled back through the third and fourth quarters, tying the game at 28-28 with less than 10 minutes to play. A series of scoreless drives by each team in the waning minutes pushed the game to overtime. In the third overtime period, Austin blocked kicker Crosby Gray’s 23-yard field goal attempt, opening up the door for Torres’ redemptive boot. “Coming out of camp, you don’t know exactly where you’re at, so now we’ve got some stuff to build on, and we’ll get better,” Raney said.

Game 2, 8/28

SPAIN PARK 31, HUEYTOWN 0 Coming off a stinging triple-overtime loss to Austin High School in its season-opening contest, Spain Park entered the home-opener against Hueytown craving a victory. “Last week we made too many mistakes to win,” Spain Park coach Shawn Raney said. “Some of the stuff that they’ve been coached to do, they didn’t do it.” Highlighting the importance of a strong work ethic and short memory, the Spain Park team that took the ﬁeld on Friday night in no way resembled the Jags of just one week ago. Showcasing a relentless defense, unstoppable offense and energized special teams, Spain Park dominated every aspect of the game, cruising to a shutout victory. “I was proud of the way we played and the

way we acted,” Raney said. “I think they took some ownership in it this week.” Spain Park came out of the gate firing, quickly jumping out to a 21-0 lead through one quarter of play. By halftime, the Jags led 31-0. Running backs Larry Wooden and Wade Streeter each ran for a touchdown. Quarterback Joey Beatty threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to tight end Will Greene before adding six more points on a quarterback sneak. The Jags’ special teams looked sharp, as kicker Tyler Sumpter recorded six touchbacks and Crosby Gray converted four extra points while also booting a 33-yard field goal through the uprights to close the first half. “That was another area I thought we got beat on last week and again we challenged the kids, and I thought they responded well,” Raney said. “We worked on it hard, and I think it showed up tonight.”

Game 3, 9/4

SPAIN PARK 15, THOMPSON 14 Spain Park kicker Crosby Gray laced a 39-yard field goal through the uprights with 25 seconds left in the fourth quarter, propelling the Jags to a gritty road victory over Thompson (2-1) in the first week of region play. “To get a win like this, especially on the road, it’s a blessing. I can’t even put it in words,” Spain Park coach Shawn Raney said. “We’ve got a lot of grit, and that’ll win you a lot of games, just to be able to continue to fight like they do.” Gray’s 39-yard game-winner was his fifth field goal of the night, having already connected on kicks from 31, 39, 44 and 22 yards. “Crosby stepped up. I had full confidence in him. He’s done it his whole career,” Raney said. The Jags trailed 14-12 entering the fourth quarter, and the Spain Park defense battled relentlessly to prevent the Warriors from extending their lead. On the night, Spain Park held Thompson to 250 yards of total offense, with just 26 of those coming through the air. The 12-play, game-winning drive began at the Spain Park 24-yard line and included a remarkable tip-drill catch by wide receiver Thomas Jordan and a critical fourth-down conversion by running back Wade Streeter. Although Gray had missed a 35-yard field goal earlier in the fourth quarter, he remained confident and focused when he attempted the winning kick. “I just kept on thinking follow through straight,” Gray said. He did, and the Jags followed him to victory.

B12 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Hoover High Football Recap

Game 1, 8/22

HOOVER 24, OAKLAND (TENN.) 6 The Hoover Bucs opened the football season in the inaugural Middle Tennessee Football Classic with a win over Oakland High of Murfreesboro. The game was played at Floyd Stadium on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University. The Bucs defense held the Patriots to 114 yards of total offense. Christopher Vacarella was 12-of-21 for 190 yards and three touchdowns. Hoover left points on the field, coach Josh Niblett said. That was largely due to 13 penalties for 126 yards. “First game, a lot of things we got to do better,” Niblett said. “A lot of it was before the play and after the play. We’ll get that squared away. Too much energy a couple of times, but we got that corrected.”

Game 2, 8/28

HOOVER 42, MANATEE (FLA.) 21 Any effects from a short week of practice for the Hoover High football team failed to show up as the Bucs (2-0) dominated every phase in a convincing victory over Manatee from Bradenton, Fla., on a rainy night at the Hoover Met. About the only thing that slowed down the Hoover offense was a lengthy lightning delay that extended halftime for more than an hour. The biggest problems for the Hoover defense were some drive-extending penalties on third down. “The kids did a great job understanding what we wanted to do game plan wise in all three phases of the game,” said Niblett. “We made some mistakes in the game (but) that’s a good football team. I’m just so proud of the kids, proud of our effort.” Quarterback Chris Vacarella was sharp early, completing his first nine passes, and ended the evening 16 of 26 for 241 yards with a long touchdown strike to Quincy Cox. The running game also clicked with the Bucs gaining 178 yards on 27 carries and scoring four times.

Game 3, 9/4

HOOVER 21, MOUNTAIN BROOK 14 Talk of untimely penalties and drive-altering turnovers could have taken up Josh Niblett’s entire visit with the media following a hard-fought win. The subject did come up. But the Hoover High football coach made a much more important point after his team

Hoover quarterback Christopher Vacarella takes off for a touchdown run against Oak Mountain. Photo by Barry Stephenson.

did enough to knock off Mountain Brook in the Class 7A, Region 3 opener at Spartan Stadium. “Championship teams find a way to win when they’re not playing their best,” Niblett said. The biggest plays on a night filled with mistakes came with the score tied at 14 in the final five minutes of the game. It began with cornerback P.J. Hall stepping in front of a Mountain Brook receiver to intercept a pass thrown by Spartan quarterback Connor

Adair with just under five minutes left in game that was tied at 14 at the time. Three C.J. Sturdivant runs netted the 35 yards needed for the go-ahead score with the touchdown run covering 9 yards.

Game 4 9/11

HOOVER 17, OAK MOUNTAIN 14 Top-ranked Hoover survived another tough challenge from a Class 7A, Region 3 opponent, this time from Oak Mountain at Heardmont Park.

Christopher Vacarella rushed for touchdowns of 65 and 5 yards but the issue wasn’t settled until Jeremiah Moon picked off a Hail Mary pass on the final play of the game. The Bucs (4-0, 2-0) also got a 37-yard field goal by Barret Pickering. Hoover extended its in-state winning streak to 42 games and its record to 13-0 against Oak Mountain.

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • B13

Bucs runners hope to hit stride by regionals, state

Hoover girls cross-county team members including Caroline Franklin, Presley Weems and Amanda Sargent begin a training run after school. Photo by Frank Couch.

By DAVID KNOX The Hoover High cross-country program is in hot pursuit of another state title this fall. The Bucs program is one of the elite programs in the state. The boys won seven of nine state championships from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s, but the competition has become fierce, especially among the South of Vulcan schools. Coach Devon Hind led the boys to a second-place finish to Auburn in 2014, and the girls racked up a third-place finish as Mountain Brook took the 7A title. Hind, who is also the track coach, said his runners have done pretty well in the early stages of the season, with the boys and girls both winning the Montevallo Early Bird Twilight Classic to open the season. Hoover’s Tommy McDonough repeated as the individual winner for the boys. McDonough, who won in 16:50 last year, had the performance of the night running 15:58 for the first sub-16 minute performance of the season. He followed that with a 15:53 at Chickasaw Trails Invitational at Oakville Indian Mounds State Park in Moulton, where the the state championship is held. McDonough, a junior, was fourth in the state championships as a sophomore, posting a 16:04.74. “Tommy is just 100 percent into running,” his coach said. “He’s smart, sets high goals, is a hard worker … and he’s still learning.” McDonough said he’s happy with how his season started off. Knowing your own strengths is important, he said. He said he’s experimented to figure out what works for him. “It’s visualizing, thinking ahead, knowing when to attack and when to surge, knowing when runners are weak and knowing when to

pick up the pace,” McDonough said. He has high hopes for himself and the team. Fellow runners John Paul Rumore and Evan Franklin are among those improving every day. “J.P. is not far behind Tommy,” Hind said. “He works hard, tries to stay right with him.” On the girls’ side, Presley Weems ran her first sub-20-minute 5K (19:39) to finish second at Montevallo. “Presley Weems has been our top runner all fall,” Hind said. “She’s state champion in the 800 in indoor track, but she’s just starting to take cross country seriously. She’s still learning cross country.” Weems, a senior, said she wants to run in college, and she’ll have to be more than a distance runner. “I trained a lot this summer, and it’s helped me a lot,” she said. She thinks she finished seventh on the team last year at the state cross country championships, so she’s made a big jump. She hasn’t taken any official visits yet, but she’s got an early list of favorites that includes Samford, UAB, Auburn and Alabama. Weems said the girls team is relatively young. She said freshman Amelia Rumore, J.P.’s sister, is one of the young girls who is impressing her. “It’s nice she’s stepping it up because we count our top five runners.” Hind has been excited to see Rumore’s improvement. “She’s broken 20 minutes already, and she’s pushing Sydney (Steely) now. She’s really stepping it up. Steely is another top runner. She finished sixth at the state finals last year as a freshman. “Me and Sydney always run together and try to push each other,” Weems said. The sectionals will be Nov. 5-7. The state championship will be at Moulton Nov. 14.

Hoover cross-country team members run behind Hoover High School. Photo by Frank Couch.

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Home Guide Special Advertising Section

ctober is the time to take on a project or two. Whether you are looking to redesign a room, revamp your summer garden or prepare your home for winter, we’ve got you covered. Browse through our fall home guide for advice, tips and resources for every aspect of home improvement.

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INDEX

B14 • October 2015

Landscaping

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Home Guide

October 2015 • B15

Special Advertising Section

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B16 • October 2015

Fall Home Guide

Special Advertising Section

Hoover Sun

Telling the story of your home By TAMMY HEINSS Fall is the perfect season for gathering. As the air starts to chill we ready our homes for friends and family to gather around our table and in our kitchen for hearty soups and warm conversation. The clinking of glasses and dishware offer a sweet reminder that fun is in the house. Memories are being made. Dreams are being shared. This time of year we look forward to lounging around the family room with a sometimes rowdy crowd to scream, yell and cheer for our favorite football team - the enthusiasm moving us like musical chairs throughout the night. With cooler temperatures the fire pit is once again enjoyed, and we are drawn to it for roasting marshmallows and simply sitting under the stars wrapped in our favorite throw with nothing to do but soak in the time. The rhythm of routine is relished and slowing our pace is welcomed. Tailgating before and after a football game, whether it’s high school or college, becomes like a watering hole for humans. We come for camaraderie and refreshment, leave to watch our

favorite football team and then return to celebrate our victories or mourn our losses. Only later, sometimes much later, we sink deep into our bed, welcomed by dreamy quilts and comforters for a restful night’s sleep we are yearning for. By themselves, the table and chairs with dishes, the sofa and throws and bedding are just furniture and dishes and pretty things. When placed together in your home, they begin to tell the story of your life by what happens around them. At Urban, we offer furnishings with a story.... your story. The story of your home. A discussion around the dining table can spur a dream into action or just provide a retreat of understanding after a long day. Relationships are built and bonded under the ambient lighting and then memories are made around the sofa, chairs and coffee table watching a well-worn movie. The building and beauty of your life starts in your home, and we at Urban want to be a part of that. We offer all the furnishings to enhance your journey or just get you started in this crazy adventure called life. Sofas and chairs in every shape and fabric to personalize for you and to express

your personality are in ample supply. Our expanded bedding department will entice you to a treat of luxurious fabrics from a simple throw to a complete outfitting of your bed with most of them being machine washable. Our lighting is to die for. The selection of styles and the scope of our offerings is something to see. Choosing light fixtures that will work best in your home is no small task, and we look forward to the opportunity of showing you what we have. Lighting makes such a difference in the ambience of our homes. Isn’t that what it’s all about anyway? Creating the atmosphere where gatherings are warm and relationships can flourish? After all, it’s not just a sofa or a chair, or a throw, or just bedding and lighting. It’s home. All the furnishings that give us comfort only take shape when the memories of life happen around them. And that’s what makes a home. That’s what makes your story. Here’s to a beautiful fall and furnishings with a story...yours! For more information on Urban Home Market, call 980-4663 or visit urbanhomemarket.com.

HooverSun.com

Fall

Home Guide

Special Advertising Section

October 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B17

B18 • October 2015

Fall Home Guide

Special Advertising Section

Hoover Sun

Custom solutions for heating and air conditioning needs

Exceptional landscaping at reasonable prices Gardner Landscaping is a full-service lawn, landscape and hardscape company that also offers lawn service maintenance to its customers. The company has served the Over the Mountain area since 2006 and prides itself on responding to your needs quickly and making sure you are a satisfied customer. Their garden center, Gardner Nurseries, is conveniently located by the Riverchase Galleria. Gardner Nurseries stocks a wide variety of plants, flowers, trees, stone and hardscape materials. In addition to bagged materials, they carry bulk materials such as: pine mulch, top soil, soil conditioner, mason/ playground sand, 8910 gravel, 57 gravel, 78 pea gravel, oversize pea gravel and Wrip Wrap. Gardner Nurseries can load these materials in your truck or trailer or they can deliver these materials for you. Its retail garden center has the

feel of a mom and pop store yet provides you with the large material selection of a large garden center. Furthermore, Gardner Landscaping has a sister company called Advanced Turf Care that specializes in turf weed control and fertilization as well as ornamental tree and shrub maintenance. They will look at a customer’s lawn and landscape and offer professional suggestions. Gardner Landscaping wants to be your one-stop source for all of your landscaping, lawn and hardscape needs and looks forward to having an opportunity to be your company of choice. For more information, call 823-3168 or 401-3347 or visit GardnerLandscapingLLC. com.

The newest location of Skelton’s Heating and Air Conditioning at 5551 U.S. Highway 280 has brought the company a steady increase in business, something for which owner Brian Skelton said he’s very thankful. “We want our new and existing customers to know how much we appreciate their patronage, and we’re pleased to be able to better serve even more of Birmingham with the convenience of our newest store,” he said. Formed in 2002 in Childersburg, Skelton’s has grown to include 17 employees and has recently increased its service vehicle fleet to 15, making its coverage of the metro Birmingham area even faster and more efficient. The company, which consistently strives for same-day service, specializes in quick and quality installation, replacement and HVAC repairs for residential and light commercial businesses. Skelton’s technicians are “comfort

specialists,” a title earned through an elite training program for HVAC specialists. They are also trained in Nexia programming to set up home unit controls through customers’ computers and smartphones. Fall is the time of year to have your heating systems serviced. By calling Skelton’s, you can learn about their preventive maintenance agreements and can get an additional 10 percent off on parts repaired. Also, for a limited time, Skelton’s customers can receive up to $1,000 in trade-in allowances on approved equipment. Let Skelton’s be your heating, cooling and refrigeration company of choice. For questions or to schedule a service appointment, call their offices at 991-5878. For emergencies after hours, call (256) 6262678. Visit skeltonsair.com for additional information.

HooverSun.com

Fall

Home Guide

October 2015 • B19

Special Advertising Section

Take it outside

As our patios and porches are becoming more sophisticated and refined, today’s homeowners are driven to find peaceful sanctuaries as a prescription for their stressful lives. Outdoor spaces can also be an extension of your home, providing you with additional living space. Creating your perfect outdoor space will be the result of the successful combination of many design elements – landscaping, stonework, carpentry, furnishings, lighting and accessories. Careful pre-planning will be the key to the creation of your personal sanctuary, so begin with creating your personal “wish list.” You may be amazed at how long this list might become! Thinking about incorporating your year round needs. Do you frequently entertain outdoors? Do you spend time outdoors in the evenings simply relaxing? Is outdoor grilling a year round requirement for you? Do you enjoy planning simple family meals outdoors?

Once you’ve assessed your needs, then planning your outdoor space becomes much easier. Think about incorporating these simple ideas: 1. Comfortable furniture. This should be most important element in your design. Today’s outdoor furnishings have been manufactured to withstand all that Mother Nature can bestow. The age of folding, vinyl-strapped furniture is definitely over. Many furniture pieces of today look similar to indoor furniture, but have been constructed and designed to stand up to all the outdoor elements. A comfortable outdoor sofa or swing can be the perfect place for a Sunday afternoon nap! 2. Fabulous fabrics. The biggest name in outdoor fabrics today is Sunbrella. This collection of fabrics is colorful, design-oriented, and totally durable. Sunbrella features gorgeous fabrics manufactured to resist fading from ultraviolet rays, mildewing from damp conditions, and

odor absorption. It is just the ultimate outdoor upholstery or drapery fabric that will be used and enjoyed by your family for years. And of course, Sunbrella Fabrics are carried by Decorating Den Interiors. 3. Let there be light. Be sure to consider incorporating various types of lighting in your outdoor space design, just as you would inside your home. Landscape lighting, overhead lighting, ceiling fans, sconces and decorative side table lighting are all great ideas. Develop a creative lighting plan to help you create a space with increased ambiance and functionality. An outdoor fireplace or a firepit can be another great source for ambient lighting…and heat! 4. Don’t forget the draperies. Beautiful window treatments aren’t just for the indoors anymore. With the outdoor fabrics mentioned above, you can add softness and privacy to your outdoor oasis. From full draperies to pillows to

canopies, the sky’s the limit for your outdoor space! As with your indoor spaces, you want to create an outdoor space that is perfect for you and your family’s needs. Planning is the most important step in creating your outdoor oasis, and this may be a good time to call in a professional to help. A decorator can guide you through the steps and help you select the best products to make your room the perfect place for you to make lasting family memories. At Decorating Den Interiors, we have access to over a dozen outdoor furnishings, accessory and fabric vendors that can help you make your outdoor space the room of your dreams, with your ideas, your style and your budget. Call today for your complementary consultation! For more information, visit laurapurvis.decoratingdens.com or call 620-1945.

B20 • October 2015

Fall Home Guide

Hoover Sun

Special Advertising Section

One-stop shopping for remodeling and new construction

Clean up with a residential-friendly dumpster company After 25 years of working in the corporate world as a facilities manager, Scott Klesius opened Bin There Dump That in May of this year. The company provides residential-friendly dumpsters for homeowners and commercial contractors, roofers and property managers. Located in Pelham, Klesius and his team can provide dumpster service throughout the entire Birmingham metro area. Perfect for renovation and household cleanout projects, the company offers: `` Clean bins `` Professional, uniformed drivers `` Prompt deliveries `` 2 x 8 boards under bins to protect your driveway `` Sweeping of the area after pickup `` Smaller trucks that fit in tight spaces. `` Four dumpster sizes to match your project FAQs What can I put into my bin? Anything except hazardous waste, biomedical waste, oil, gas, biomedical waste or tires. Can I put paint cans into my dumpster

rental? Yes, if the paint is dried. For water-based paints, add cat litter or paint dryer packets from your hardware store. Can we put electronic equipment and appliances in the bin? All electronics and appliances including refrigerators can go into the bin. Do you take concrete, stone or soil? Yes, our 4-yard bin is specifically designed for them. What size dumpster is right for our project? We have four sizes: 4-yard, 10-yard, 14-yard and 20-yard. Please see our website or call, and we can discuss and make suggestions about your project. Is it easy to put stuff into the bin? Yes, all of our bins have back double doors, making loading much easier. For more information on Bin There Dump That, call 406-5850 or visit dumpsterrentalsbirmingham.com.

Are you thinking about building or remodeling your home? Take the next step and call the experts at Construx to assist you. Whether you have a specific vision for your home or just a couple of vague ideas, Construx can make it happen. “Many people are choosing to remodel their current home at this time when the economic situation is working in their favor,” said owner and partner Kent Irwin. “And by doing it now, you can immediately enjoy those upgrades while adding value to your home.” Bathroom trends: • Getting rid of the tub/shower combo and replacing it with a separate walk-in shower. • Adding rimless glass shower walls. • Adding features to allow you to age in place, such as handheld showers, seats and grab bars. • Installing big plank tiles for floors and walls. Kitchen trends: • Creating an open floor plan — opening your

kitchen to an adjoining room creates a dramatic effect and a great update. • Installing hardwood flooring gives flow with the rest of the house and feels warm and inviting. • Creating a kitchen island makes a good break between the kitchen and living space. Consider making it look like furniture. • Installing quartz countertops. Outdoor trends: • Increasing curb appeal and making a good first impression by updating front doors and entryways. • Installing new windows adds energy efficiency and comfort. • Building a wood deck or screened-in porch for extra outdoor living space. Call Construx at 533-2668 for an appointment and free estimate or for more information. You can also visit construxhome.com.

Call the...

Remodeling Specialists

Kitchen/Bath Remodeling • Room Additions New Home Construction • Fencing & Decks Cabinets • Countertops • Flooring Call for an appointment •205.533.2668 2508 Rocky Ridge Rd., Vestavia Hills 35243

www.construxhome.com

Fall

HooverSun.com

Home Guide

October 2015 • B21

Special Advertising Section

Design your dream landscape

David H. Sharp

DSLD Land Management is a full-service design/build landscape contractor firm. We are a family-owned and operated company that strives to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients. During our initial consultation all on-site factors are considered from function to form, with special emphasis given to economy and value added work. DSLD Land Management, Inc. opened its doors in 1983. Today DSLD has built an excellent reputation in landscape construction as a prominent design/build company that services central Alabama. Over the past 30 years DSLD has been recognized and featured multiple times in publications such as Southern Living Magazine and Builder’s Architect Magazine. DSLD welcomes projects of any scope and size and stands ready to serve our clients with a full staff of

Megan A. McNair

J. Cole Sharp

licensed and degreed designers, a fulltime administrative assistant, and one of the most experienced field service teams in the business.

The team David H. Sharp

Pursing his lifelong interest in horticulture and business, coupled with a background in drainage and soil erosion, David Sharp was inspired to create the ideal landscape construction company specializing in residential design and installation. This inspiration is now DSLD Land Management, a full service design/ build landscape contractor firm founded in 1983. David studied Geotechnical Engineering at the Ohio State University. While a student at OSU David was offered and accepted a scholarship to

Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama where he graduated with a degree in Business Administration. Soon after graduating David became interested in applying his background in Geotechnical Engineering and Business Administration to a new course of study in Ornamental Horticulture. Over the years David has been a speaker at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham Public Library’s Lecture Series, and at various garden clubs throughout the Birmingham area. In addition to learning from the environment around him, David has developed a more thorough understanding of various cultural landscape design applications from his travels throughout Europe and Asia visiting gardens and landscapes in over 20 countries.

David firmly believes in the value of family. Not only does he enjoy his family, but also works to improve the lives of families with at-risk children. David sits on several national boards of directors where he volunteers on behalf of foster and adopted children across the country.

Megan A. McNair

Megan McNair is DSLD’s newest team member serving as a Landscape Designer. She is a graduate of Auburn University with a degree in Landscape Horticulture with an emphasis in Landscape Design. While obtaining her degree from Auburn University, Megan was able to develop a strong foundation in landscape design. She has advanced training and specializes in software such as Dynascape and ProLandscape. Megan looks forward to continuing

her career with DSLD Land Management and creating spaces that reflect the lifestyle, purpose and attitude of our projects as well as injecting it with her personal flair.

J. Cole Sharp

Growing up alongside his father, Cole Sharp learned the family business from the ground up. Cole attended Jefferson State Community College, where he studied Computer Information Systems Technology and Mathematics. In addition to his major courses, he took Horticulture courses to enhance his knowledge of the family business. Today Cole is fully engaged in the day-to-day operations of DSLD; from sales to installation as well as providing technical support. For more information on DSLD Land Management, call 437-1012 or visit dsldlandmgmt.com.

B22 â&#x20AC;˘ October 2015

Fall Home Guide

Special Advertising Section

Hoover Sun

A new solution to a timeless problem PLUMCORE Inc. is a full-service plumbing and utility company with a specialty in lining/ rehabilitating piping for all applications. We were incorporated in 1977, started in residential development, and progressed from there to commercial and industrial works over the last 38 years. We have never lost sight of the fact that customer satisfaction is our main service that we provide because at the end of the day our business is our customers. Whether we provide a service for a company or an individual, our main goal is to provide our clients with the best finished product and overall experience in our market. This philosophy has taken our company to where it is today. PLUMCORE Inc. is bonded, insured, and has an unlimited bidding status license with the state of Alabama and surrounding states.

About 15 years ago we got into lining small diameter piping (6-inch diameter and down) because we would run into dilapidated pipe, and it would either not be feasible or possible to shut down a business to make the traditional repairs needed to restore flow in a timely manner. If you think about it, a business or residence is not somewhere anyone wants to spend their time without working restrooms or sewer backups, so there had to be a better way to deal with this problem without creating additional issues that take people away from their business or family life. We started looking for reliable and unorthodox technologies, which we found in two different companies. One technology would do main line (8-inch diameter and larger) and another that would take care of 6-inch diameter and down. We bought into both companies and utilize both

technologies for the industries we serve. Lining is basically putting a pipe inside of a pipe. It sounds like a magic trick, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not. There are actually two methods: pull in place and inversion techniques. Both have their place. We can either line the whole pipe or just a portion (start and stop). Both products are a two-part epoxy mixed together and then put into a flexible felt tube. The tube is then wet-out by pressure rollers and saturated completely. We then squeegee out the remaining epoxy, and depending on the method, we proceed to install the liner inside the pipe by inversion or by an inflatable bladder.

We then either let it ambient cure, or we cook off the epoxy with steam (3-hour cure). The finished product is a stronger, acid resistant, faster flowing pipe that will last up to 50 years or longer. There is a peace of mind to be had in knowing that roots, separated joints, main connections, even no-pipe areas in a pipeline can be fixed without being invasive. These are just a few persistent problems that occur every year with certain aging facilities or homes. So donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dig; there is a better way and we have it. For more information, call 631-4343.

HooverSun.com

Fall

Home Guide

October 2015 • B23

Special Advertising Section

Making the most of outdoor living with LawnCrafters Outdoor living areas are a great way to expand your living space without the major expense of a remodel or addition to your home. One of the most popular outdoor living design trends today is outdoor fire pits. Outdoor fire pits are a welcoming gathering place for family and friends from fall through spring in central Alabama. There are several options when considering adding a fire pit to your outdoor living area. Similar to adding a pool to your landscape, you should consider whether you want your fire pit flush to the ground or above the ground. Your decision may be influenced by the topography of your area. Above-ground pits allow for flexibility in design. A simple copper pit can be purchased at your local home improvement store. A popular

A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be

When the weather gets frightful, your fireplace can be delightful. Batts’ Chimney Services is a local family-owned and operated, full-service chimney company. Area residents have been relying on Batts’ for its professionalism and knowledge to handle their entire chimney needs for more than 36 years. “Our goal is to provide the highest quality work at a reasonable price,” owner Phillip Batts said. To ensure your chimney is in tiptop shape, the experts at Batts’ Chimney Services have answered some of the most important questions concerning the safety and upkeep of your fireplace. How often should I have my chimney cleaned? The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits and correct

clearances. Cleaning, maintenance and repairs shall be done if necessary.” My fireplace has an odor. What can I do? A good cleaning will help, and during this process Batts’ can determine if there are other contributing factors that need to be addressed. I have water leaking into my fireplace and water stains on the ceiling and wall. Can your company fix my problem? We will conduct a thorough inspection to determine where the water is coming from and help in the prevention of further leaks. Sometimes the problem is not chimney-related. A roof problem can show up at the chimney and deceive us. To learn more about Batts’ Chimney Services, visit battschimneyservices.com or call 956-8207. Visit csia.org/Homeowner-Resources/index.aspx for more FAQs on chimney service.

design is to utilize decorative paving stones or fire-resistant bricks to line the surface of your pit. Often pits utilize a natural gas line to aid in starting the fires. Outdoor fire pits are an incredibly efficient way to enhance your outdoor living space. With Alabama’s moderate winters, you can get many months of enjoyment out of your pit. They are great for family gatherings, and the kids will love the opportunity to make s’mores while enjoying a cup of hot chocolate. Now is the time to consider adding a fire pit to your outdoor living area so you can maximize your enjoyment during the cool evenings. For more information on LawnCrafters, call 229-0579 or visit lawncrafterslandscapeinc. com.

B24 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Breaking down Master of the Brew

Homebrewers have the option of purchasing grains to build their own recipe, or they can purchase a prebuilt kit. Photo by Erica Techo.

HOMEBREWERS

CONTINUED from page B1 providing entertainment away from the main stage. Uncorked has also added a VIP tent this year. The VIP area includes corn hole boards, reserved restrooms, TVs with the Auburn and Alabama football games and seats in the shade. “Historically we’ve had a hot day, and people are trying to get in the shade,” Alverson said. “This will be a tented area with fans.” The VIP area also includes premium beer and wine tastings that aren’t available at the other tents. Tickets for the VIP section are $25.

Aside from free alcohol sampling, Uncorked also brings together local artists. Around 25 artistic and craft vendors are registered for the event and will have their work for sale. Each year, Alverson’s team brings in a few changes. This desire to constantly make Uncorked better helps keep the event successful, Kilpatrick said. “I know that Audrey and her team are constantly trying to push the needle on this event and keep it on the front end as far as events go,” he said. “She’s the one who is constantly pushing us. [It’s nice] to have someone who is not willing to settle for last year’s success.”

Uncorked! On the Green Uncorked! On the Green Oct. 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Green at Ross Bridge Includes beer and wine sampling, as well as the AlaBev Master of the Brew competition. uncorkedonthegreen.com

Homebrewers will be judged in several categories, including best beer, most original or unique style, most creative name and fan favorite. The winner of the competition will be named Master of the Brew during Uncorked! On the Green. “Once you become the Master of the Brew, you need the competition so you can continue to claim it, so we hope this will continue to be a part of the yearly Uncorked! On the Green,” event coordinator Audrey Alverson said. AlaBev has helped with the logistics of the tasting. They created a scoring sheet that includes categories such as taste, mouth feel, appearance and the flavor profile of the beers. Homebrewers are encouraged to be creative with their beer, but they are also encouraged to create a beer fitting for the season. “We’re looking for seasonal beers, which is like a fall/ winter seasonal brew, but no style limitations,” Alverson said. Homebrewer Charley Hicks said sometimes parameters help bring about exclusivity in beer. While wine has good years and bad years to distinguish its quality, beers don’t have that distinction. “For the most part, if you’re plugging in the variables, you’re going to get a very similar beer,” Hicks said. “To be able to have a very limited schedule on things … it encourages a seasonality, but it also kind of does encourage that whole moment where it’s not like yesterday.” Craft breweries utilize this by offering limited-batch beers or specially infused beers. “Beer, along with cooking, it’s one of those things that you can consume and you can drink, but it is one of those really awesome forms of expression,” Hicks said. Prizes include cash, gift certificates and a conical fermenter for the overall winner. This equipment will help the winner step up their homebrewing setup, said Matt Kilpatrick, brand manager for Uncorked sponsor AlaBev. The winner’s beer will also be brewed at Avondale Brewery for the season. This aspect of the competition is a unique opportunity, Kilpatrick said, but it also allows the homebrewer to see the difference in a big brewery’s process. “A lot of homebrewers, they have a lot of talent on their system,” Kilpatrick said. “So this is an opportunity for them to see the difference in a larger setup.”

HooverSun.com

October 2015 • B25

Hoover

PART-TIME POSITION

Real Estate Listings MLS #

Zip

Address

Status Price

728628

35226

2274 Abbeyglen Circle

New

$307,000

728905

35226

2230 Chapel Road

New

$149,860

728885

35226

2809 Paden Way

New

$529,900

728869

35226

2112 Sharon Lane

New

$199,000

728830

35226

4755 Mcgill Court, #60

New

$439,900

728807

35226

318 Bedford Avenue

New

$189,900

728800

35226

716 Sanders Road

New

$250,000

728796

35226

853 Shades Crest Road

New

$150,000

728761

35226

600 Founders Park Drive

New

$484,900

728654

35226

3486 Hurricane Road

New

$210,000

728604

35226

641 Preserve Way

New

$359,000

728578

35226

1554 Deer Valley Drive

New

$254,000

728577

35226

4854 Pinedale Way

New

$300,000

728549

35226

4467 Preserve Drive

New

$548,000

728772

35226

2675 Creekview Drive

New

$349,900

728542

35226

2347 Sunrise Way, #98

New

$471,000

728516

35226

3805 Carisbrooke Circle

New

$479,000

728510

35226

1758 Strollaway Lane

New

$249,900

728495

35226

2266 White Way

New

$379,900

728494

35226

2331 Dartmouth Circle

New

$264,900

2274 Abbeyglen Circle The Alabama Press Association is looking for an organized individual to perform assist in advertising billing, and other errands as needed for 20-30 hours per week. Computer skills and ability to multi-task are a plus.

2675 Creekview Drive

$10 per hour, plus potential opportunities to earn additional commissions.

Real estate listings provided by the Birmingham Association of Realtors on Sept. 14. Visit birminghamrealtors.com.

If you are interested in applying, please email résumé or work history to leigh2@alabamapress.org.

B26 • October 2015

Hoover Sun

Calendar Hoover Events Oct. 1: Economic Development Forum Meeting. 8:30 a.m., Hoover Chamber Office. Visitors welcome. Visit hooverchamber.org/events. Oct. 3: Bluff Park Art Show. All Day. Bluff Park Community Center, 517 Cloudland Drive, Hoover. Visit bluffparkartassociation.org/bluff-parkart-show. Oct. 3: Flavor Run. Hoover Met. Visit active. com. Oct. 4: Whispers from the Past - A Native American Experience. 10 a.m.6 p.m., Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Road. Rediscover the culture and contributions of Native Alabamians. Children’s games and activities. Visit aldridgegardens.com. Oct. 6: Financial Planning Expo. 1 p.m., Hoover Library. Attend educational workshops and meet one-on-one with financial planners to discuss personal finance questions, concerns and interests. Meeting Rooms A, B, & C. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 8: Hoover Chamber Coffee & Contacts. 7:30-9 a.m. Spectrum Reach (formerly Charter Media), 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite

444, Birmingham. Visit hooverchamber.org/events. Oct. 8 Hoover Service Club Meeting. 11 a.m. Hoover Country Club. Lunch available for $18 following meeting. Featured speaker Jamie Nutter: Mrs. Alabama, Technical Coach with Hoover City Schools. Visit hooverserviceclub.com. Oct. 12: 12th Annual Spain Park Bullpen Golf Tournament. Inverness Country Club. All Proceeds benefit the Spain Park Baseball Program. Visit spainparkathletics.org. Oct. 14: Ambassadors Meeting. 4:30 p.m. Hoover Chamber Office. Visitors welcome. Visit hooverchamber.org/events. Oct. 15: Hoover Chamber Luncheon. 11:15 a.m. networking; luncheon at noon. Hyatt Regency - The Wynfrey Hotel. Visit hooverchamber. org/events. Oct. 17: 12th Annual Holy Apostles Denim & Diamonds Dinner and Auction. Harley Davidson Event Room, Pelham. Tickets $30/ 225 table of eight. Contact Mickey Bunn 886-2769.

Oct. 20: Lunch and Learn. 12 p.m. Hoover Senior Center, 400 Municipal Drive, Hoover. Oct. 22: Business after Hours at Joe’s Crab Shack. 5:30-7 p.m. 20 Meadow View Drive, Inverness. Contact Rodney Newby, 981-2999. Visit joecrabshack.com. Oct. 22: Taste of Hoover. 5-8 p.m. Aldridge Gardens, 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. Enjoy an evening strolling through the Gardens and sampling food from some of Hoover’s best restaurants. Taste international wines and local beers while listening to live entertainment throughout the evening. Visit facebook.com/tasteofhoover. Oct. 27: Horizons Luncheon at 11 a.m. Hoover Senior Center, 400 Municipal Drive, Hoover. Visit hooveral.org. Oct. 29: Hoover Hayride & Family Night. 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Veterans Park, 800 Valleydale Rd. Visit hooveral.org. Oct. 30: Halloween Costume Party 12:30 p.m. Hoover Senior Center, 400 Municipal Drive, Hoover. Visit hooveral.org.

Oct. 17: Hoover High School Band Festival. All day. Hoover Met.

Hoover Athletics Oct. 1: Varsity Football. Hoover vs. Spain Park, 7 p.m.

Country Championships. All Day. Veterans Park on Valleydale Road.

Oct. 13: Varsity Volleyball. Hoover @ Tuscaloosa County, 5 p.m.

Oct. 1: Varsity Volleyball. Hoover @ Vestavia, 5 p.m.

Oct. 6: Varsity Volleyball. Hoover vs. Mountain Brook, 5 p.m.

Oct. 15: Varsity Volleyball. Hoover v. James Clemens, 5 p.m.

Oct. 5: Junior Varsity Football. Hoover @ Spain Park, 7 p.m.

Oct. 8: Varsity Volleyball. Hoover @ Oak Mountain, 5 p.m.

Oct. 16: Varsity Football. Hoover @ Vestavia, 7 p.m.

Oct. 9: Varsity Football. Hoover vs. Tuscaloosa County, 7 p.m.

Oct. 19: Junior Varsity Football. Hoover vs. Vestavia, 7 p.m.

Oct. 5 Hoover City Schools Middle School Cross

Oct. 22: Hoover High School Cross Country Invitational. All day. 4800 Valleydale Road. Oct. 23: Varsity Football. Hoover vs. Hewitt, 7 p.m. Oct. 29: Varsity Football. Hoover v. North Marion (FL), 7 p.m.

Hoover Library Kids

grade. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Mondays- Together with Twos. Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26. 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Children’s Programming Room. Stories and crafts for twos and their caregiver. Register each week. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 3: Storybook Brunch- Breakfast Bonanza. 10:30 a.m. Children’s Programming Room. Served with breakfast snack. All ages. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Tuesdays- Father Goose. Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27 at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Children’s Programming Room. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Stories, songs and snacks for ones and their caregiver. Register each week. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Tuesdays- Early Birds. Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27. 10 a.m. Children’s Programming Room. Stories, songs and finger plays for birth to 12 months and their caregiver. Register each week. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Wednesdays- Tiny Tot Tales. Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28. 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A short action-packed story time for children under four. Children’s Programming Room. Visit hooverlibrary. org.

Oct. 5: Reading Sidekicks- Chicka BOOM! Bill Martin, Jr. 6:30 p.m. Children’s Programming Room. Book club for emerging readers (ages 5-7) and their parents. Registration required. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 10 Scooby’s Kidz Kitchen. 10:30 a.m. Make some treats and solve a mystery. Children’s Department. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 13 Annual Pumpking Painting Event. 6:30 p.m. Children’s Programming Room. Bring a pumpkin to decorate with your own design, then enter it in a contest. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 19: This Just In! 6:30 p.m. New books book club for grades 4-6. Children’s Programming Room. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Wednesdays- After Lunch Bunch. Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28. 1:30 p.m. Children’s Programming Room. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Storytime for ages 3 and up. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 20 & 27: Minecraft Mayhem. 4 p.m. Children’s Programming Room. Explore the world of Minecraft with themed crafts, games and snacks. Grades 1-3. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Thursdays- Storytime Live. Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. 10:30 a.m. Children’s Programming Room. Stories, songs, games and puppetry for ages 3 and up. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 23: It’s Alive! 7 p.m. Children’s Department. Old-fashioned monster bash. Costumes encouraged. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Thursdays- PJ Storytime. Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. 6:30 p.m. Children’s Programming Room. Wear your pajamas for stories, songs and a bedtime snack. All ages. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 2: Library Skills 101. 10:30 a.m. Children’s Programming Room. Scavenger hunt and online catalog navigating session. Ages K-6th

Oct. 28: Make It Yourself: Slime Science. 4 p.m. Children’s Department. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 31: It’s Halloween! 10 a.m. Wear your costume and trick or treat throughout the library. All ages. Children’s Department. Visit hooverlibrary. org.

October 2015 • B27

HooverSun.com

Calendar Hoover Library (continued) Adults

welcome to practice and learn Spanish language skills. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Tuesdays- Adult English Class Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27. 6:30 p.m. Meeting Rooms A, B and C. Basic and intermediate level English instruction for adult speakers of other languages. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 24: Write Club. 10:30 a.m. Meet and mingle with fellow amateur poets and novelists. Meeting Rooms A, B & C. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 26: Friends of the Hoover Library Board Meeting. 10 a.m. Theatre Conference Room. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 1: First Thursday Fiction Book Group: The Storied Life of A.J. Firky. 10 a.m. Meetings Rooms A&B. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Events

Oct. 4: Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: Poland. 2:30 p.m. Free program on food and coffee from around the world. Complimentary samples. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 10: Golden Dragon Acrobats. 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Performance by the premiere Chinese acrobatic touring company. Tickets $25. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 5: Friends of the Hoover Library. Meeting Rooms A, B & C. Free. Refreshments at 9:45 a.m. Program at 10 a.m. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 11: Andy Spain. 2:30 p.m. Singer/ songwriter will perform. Free. The Plaza. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 8: Second Thursday Fiction Book Group: The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty. 10 a.m. Meeting Rooms A&B. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 19: Guided Library Tour. 6:30 p.m. Meeting Rooms A&B. Learn about resources, services and events. Open to adults and families. Snacks provided. Registration required. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Oct. 10: Purl @ The Plaza. 1 p.m. Meeting of all fiber enthusiasts. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 12: Film: Buena Vista Social Club. 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 13: Spanish Conversation Club. 7 p.m. The Plaza. Free. All fluency levels are

Oct. 22: Sally Barris & the Birmingham Boys. 6:30 p.m. Singer/songwriter backed up by a group of Birmigham musicians. The Plaza. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 27: Monday at the Movies: “Marnie.” 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Alfred Hitchcok’s psychological thriller. The Library Theatre. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Area Events

Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host its Fall Plant Sale Oct. 17-18.

Oct. 1 Ballet Women’s Committee Extravaganza: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Alabama Ballet, 2726 1st Ave. South. Tickets include hors d’oeuvres, beverages, live music and a performance by the Alabama Ballet along with a silent auction and raffle. Visit balletwomen.com. Oct. 1-3: 43rd Annual Greek Festival. 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Downtown Birmingham. Featuring food, music, jewelry, art and more. Free admission. Visit bhamgreekfestival.com Oct. 1-4: Antiques in the Gardens. Thursday 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Visit bbgardens.org/antiques. Oct. 6: Birmingham Financial Planning Expo. Hoover Public Library. Educational workshops and meetings with financial planners. Oct. 8: Girls on the Run Evening of Empowerment. 5:30 p.m. Clubhouse at Highlands, 2908 Highland Ave. South. Featuring cocktails, appetizers and meet-and-greet with Women Who Inspire. Visit girlsontherunbham.org Oct. 10: Walk to End Alzheimer’s. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Railroad Park. Visit act.alz.org. Oct. 11: Cahaba River Fry-Down. Noon4 p.m., Railroad Park. Food, beer, music and fun to

benefit the Cahaba River Society. $20 donation for adults, 12 and under free. Visit frydown.com Oct. 14: 57th Linly Heflin Annual Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show. 11:30 a.m. doors, Noon luncheon. Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom. Visit linlyheflin.org/fashion-show/. Oct. 17: 12th Annual Holy Apostles Denim & Diamonds Dinner and Auction. 5:30 p.m. Harley Davidson Event Room, Pelham. Tickets $30, $225 table of eight. Contact Mickey Bunn 886-2769. Oct. 17-18: Fall Plant Sale. Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Blount Plaza, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Visit bbgardens. org. Oct. 21- Nov. 1: Shop Save & Share. Use a card for up to 20 percent discount at select stores. Benefits the Junior League of Birmingham. $40. Visit shopsaveandshare.net. Oct. 31: Fare Walk for Food Allergy. 8:30 a.m. Railroad Park, 1600 1st Ave. South. Visit foodallergywalk.org. Nov. 1: 10th Annual Out of the Darkness Walk. 2:30 p.m. Heardmont Park. Registration at 1 p.m. Visit afsp.org.