Hoover Sun October 2012 by Starnes Media

Sun Hoover

Neighborly news & entertainment for Hoover

Volume 1 | Issue 1 | October 2012

Mall makeover By Black Friday, Galleria shoppers could see massively different mall

Football

fever

Hoover quarterback Connor Short led the Bucaneers to the top of the state rankings through the ﬁrst four games of the 2012 season. Find more on Hoover High, plus photos from Hoover’s Homecoming and a report on Spain Park’s impressive start inside. Photo courtesy of Marvin Gentry / Belmont Studios.

Sports page 20

Bluff Park Art Show Oct. 6

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

By REBECCA WALDEN

Top right: A rendering of the Galleria as it is slated to appear following more than $60 million in renovation. Above: Included in the planned changes are the relocation of the mall’s central elevators and the introduction of Von Maur into the old Macy’s location. Rendering courtesy GGP.

Renovations costing more than $60 million are currently underway at the Riverchase Galleria as owners seek to entice new customers for the 2012 holiday shopping season. Officials at Birmingham-based Hoar Construction, the company responsible for the project, said the top priority is to complete substantive parking deck renovations and interior remodeling projects before the day after Thanksgiving – or Black Friday as it’s known in the retail world. “The schedule and phasing for the project was developed with the shopper in mind in order to minimize disruption to the overall shopping experience,” said Mark Hendricks, vice president of Hoar Construction’s Alabama division. During the initial phase, which began in September, construction teams are remodeling the center court public restrooms and the mall’s parking deck. And this month, construction began on a major aspect of the remodel— new elevators in the mall’s center court. Hendricks said the existing elevators would remain operational until the new elevators are completely installed, and then demolition and

See GALLERIA | page 21

Artist Mary Sowell displays her work during the 2011 Bluff Park Art Show. This year, the show, always held on the ﬁrst Saturday in October, is celebrating 49 years. Find out more inside.

Community page 10

INSIDE Sponsors .................. 4 City ............................ 5 Community .............. 6 Business ................... 14 Food .......................... 16

Opinion ..................... 18 School House .......... 19 Sports ....................... 20 Celebrations ............ 21 Calendar ................... 22

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Certiﬁcates of Need approved for both contesting hospitals By JEFF THOMPSON On Sept. 18, Alabama’s Certificate of Need Review Board approved requests to build two free-standing emergency facilities in west Hoover. The approvals, granted to UAB Medical West and Princeton Baptist Medical Center, come at the peak of a territorial dispute between the two

organizations. Both UAB and Baptist have filed oppositions to each other’s request to open near the intersection of Interstate 459 and Alabama Highway 150. According to Clark Bruner, health planner with the State Health Planning and Development Agency, the CON Board heard testimony from both sides during last month’s meeting, and an administrative law judge in Montgomery

had previously considered extensive documentation. Following more than an hour on the subject, the board decided to approve Certificates of Need for both facilities. He added that appeals were likely coming. Neal Morrison, chairman of the CON Review Board, said he felt the board’s decision to

See EMERGENCY | page 21

October 2012

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HooverSun.com

October 2012

Hoover Sun

About Us Photo of the Month

Please Support our Sponsors Hoover High School cheerleaders,

spurred on by the fight song, lead the Bucaneers onto the field before the team’s first game of the season against Mississippi’s South Panola High School. Hoover won 35-10. Photo courtesy of Bill Shultz.

Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden

Can’t wait to hear from you If you are like me, and you only run Welcome to the debut issue of your new source for Hoover happenings – the when somebody’s chasing you, you can Hoover Sun! Covering all aspects of com- still stave off the weekend doldrums with munity news, Hoover Sun will showcase a trip or three to the Hoover Public Library, an arts and culture the many highlights and gem in our collective backhometown heroes of our city, along with other area yard. One of the highlights of my spring happened news of interest. Got a star here when, book nerd that student? Know of a new I am, I found myself standbusiness that your neighbors ing face-to-face with Scott ought to know about, too? Turow, keynote speaker Trying to keep up with the many events around town of the Library’s popular Southern Voices Festival and finding it a near imposand author of Presumed sible task? It’s all here in Innocent (Harrison Ford, your brand-new, hyper-local anyone?). As I gathered community-centric newspaWalden per – and it’s all about you. my awestruck wits off the Early in the month, lace up your sneak- Library Plaza floor, my husband, merciers and strut your stuff in Linn Park for the fully, entertained Mr. Turow with small 21st annual North Central Alabama Race talk of Chicago Cubs baseball so that I for the Cure. In this issue, meet Carol could regroup and secure a lovely perRobertson Cauthen, a local woman who sonalized note and autograph from one of turned her breast cancer diagnosis into a my literary heroes. Without question, the call to action that includes opening up her library’s revolving door of local, regional own business and even bringing the Race and national talent, not to mention its wealth of print and e-resources, make this for the Cure right here to Birmingham.

facility one of Hoover’s most fascinating resources. Check. It. Out. Pun intended. Later in the month, if you can tear yourself away from the siren call of college football Saturdays, October in our fair city offers enough festivals and family-friendly events to keep you venue hopping, morning, noon and night. From well-known events, like the Bluff Park Art Show – always the first Saturday in October – to WOOFstock, for the four-legged friends in your life, to Uncorked! on the Green and Arts and Music on the Green and more, there are countless reasons to get up, get outdoors and enjoy these laid back last days of our Indian summer. Let me hear from you! Send your thoughts, comments, photos and story ideas to Rebecca@hooversun.com. Cheers,

Rebecca Walden

Meet our staff

Account Executive Matthew Allen has lived in the Birmingham area since moving here in 2004 to marry his fiancée. He worked for Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., for the past eight years in various capacities. Prior to moving to Birmingham, he attended and graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in journalism, and grew up in Thomaston, Ga., where his family still resides. Among his hobbies are watching and attending UGA athletic events, golfing, gardening, DIY home projects and spending as much time as he can with his two-year-old son, Brady, and wife Abby. He is active in several area Chambers of Commerce, the Hoover Rotary Club, the Hoover Beautification Board and St. Mark United Methodist Church in Vestavia Hills. He and his family reside in Hoover.

When not making pretend lemon honey tea with her imaginative three-year-old Ella or chasing around her plotting and playful redheaded toddler Connor, aka “the Flying Tomato,” Editor Rebecca Walden can usually be found hunched over her laptop, writing. A career marketing communications professional, Rebecca writes for numerous corporate and non-profit clients and various consumer publications. Since 2003, she has lived in Green Valley with her husband Rett, their two children and two grumpy lab mix rescues. Rebecca enjoys herb gardening, reading anything by Jennifer Weiner, and scouring the racks of Ross for herself so she can spend the rest of her clothing budget with Miss Alice of Sew Precious Patton Creek, outfitting those two precocious kiddoodles.

Alabama Allergy (9) Altamont School (11) Aqua Chem / 4 Seasons (9) Ashford Advisors (6) Baptist Health Center (12) Brookwood Medical Center (14) City of Hoover Hayride (24) Classic Events (18) Creekside Tavern (13) Davis Likis Financial (15) Four Corners (7) Full Moon Barbecue (15) Geico (6) Gloria Bahakel (11) Golden Rule, G Dawgs, La Paz (2) Junior League of Birmingham (8) Moss Rock Festival (3) Outdoor Living Areas (5) Realty South (23) Rittenhouse Senior Living (10) St. Vincent’s Hospital (17) Sumo Japanese Steakhouse (16) Suzette Clark-Walker Realty (19) The Whole Scoop (19) Thimbles (10) Virginia Vinson (7)

Contributing Editor Jeff Thompson is a journalism graduate of Auburn University who moved to Birmingham with his wife, Ashley, in 2012. For the past four years he served as managing editor of The Tuskegee News, where he focused on bringing public awareness to causes including education, historical preservation, local arts and dedicated non-profit organizations. He has been awarded eight Alabama Press Association awards for coverage, photography and design. He has a dog and a cat, is bad at cooking, is worse at guitar, and still can’t navigate his home neighborhood of Bluff Park.

Publisher : Creative Director : Editor : Managing Editor : Contributing Editor : Sales and Distribution :

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Rebecca Walden Madoline Markham Jeff Thompson Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Matthew Allen Contributing Writers : Jackie Walburn Erica T. Hopper Jason Gaston Intern : Kaitlin Bitz Published by : Hoover Sun LLC

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

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

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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October 2012

Government Mayor’s Minute By Gary Ivey

Welcome to Hoover! As Mayor of Hoover, I would like to welcome The Hoover Sun to our city! We are excited to have another media outlet and look forward to all the new partnerships this opportunity brings. I am honored to serve as your mayor for another four years and work with the City Council to keep Hoover moving in a positive direction. Founded in 1967, our city has quickly grown to be the sixth largest city in Alabama. Our fast growth rate can be attributed to many factors, including the city’s ability to offer residents an exceptional quality of life that is safe, secure and affordable. Gary Whether you are new to Hoover or a lifelong resident, I hope you will take some time to explore all that Hoover has to offer. From cultural experiences provided by the Hoover Library Theater, to outdoor hiking and rock climbing at Moss Rock Preserve’s 350 natural acres, or a leisurely stroll through Aldridge Gardens, there’s something for everyone and every age. We have state-of-the-art police and fire departments that boast cutting edge technology, equipment and training to protect and save lives. We have many recreational ball fields for our youth and a thriving senior center full of daily activities. Our school system offers an innovative curriculum, excellent teaching standards and outstanding facilities. All of these factors are what make

Hoover the premier city in Alabama and one of the main reasons people move to Hoover. We are home to many world-class shopping venues and great restaurants. Tour buses and out-of-town shoppers frequent Hoover and have made our city known as a shopping destination. Hoover is also home to Regions Park, and we are excited about hosting many new events at that venue in the coming year. Hoover is fortunate to have a high level of citizen involvement and a government determined to offer its people the very best in administration and services. If you would like to get more Ivey involved, check into serving on one of our many boards, volunteer opportunities or service clubs. With the endless opportunities, events and amenities Hoover has to offer, one can easily see why we take so much pride in our city. If you need any information about Hoover, please visit our website, hooveral.org, and find out why we will continue to exceed your expectations! Sincerely,

Gary Ivey Mayor

inc.

City News City budget approval postponed During its regular meeting Sept. 17, the Hoover City Council decided to postpone approval of its 2013 general fund budget until newly elected council member John Lyda reviews it. Lyda, who unseated Mari Morrison in the August general election, will be sworn in on Nov. 5 alongside Mayor Gary Ivey and five other council members who won re-election bids. In the meantime, since the city’s 2013 fiscal year begins Oct. 1, the council voted to continue operating under 2012’s $88.5 million general fund budget.

Grant funding going out

The Hoover City Council agreed to spend more than $270,000 in grant money this fiscal year to resurface roads and fund programs that provide services in the community. Approved in September, the money comes from federal community development block grants, and the majority – $180,000 – will go toward matching funds required for a $2.2 million grant from the state of Alabama. The city intends to use the state grant to resurface Lorna Road and parts of Patton Chapel Road. Over the course of five years, Hoover will use approximately $475,000 in grant funding to pay matching costs on the state grant. The additional $90,000 of block grant funding will be used to supplement programs for after-school tutoring, emergency home repair and homeless services, with $20,000 being put aside to pay administration costs. From other sources, $60,000 will be used to begin funding designs for a sidewalk along State Highway 150. The sidewalk will run from U.S. Highway 31 to Cahaba River Estates Drive and the council estimates total cost of the design at $300,000.

New city website coming

Before the close of 2013, the City of Hoover plans to have a revamped website that allows for more efficient two-way communication between administration and residents. In September, Mayor Gary Ivey was authorized to pursue a contract with CivicPlus, a Kansasbased company that provides web management to more than 1,000 government associations. The current proposal being considered by the mayor agrees to pay CivicPLus more than $53,000 over a fouryear period. Government officials believe the process of implementing the changeover will take about six months, but the end result will be a more efficient means of communicating with residents.

Veterans Week Celebration

The Hoover Public Library, in conjunction with the City of Hoover, will hold a week-long salute to those serving our country from Nov. 4-11. The celebration begins Nov. 4 with a reception at the library. Monday, Nov. 5, there will be two showings of a movie based on the Vietnam War. Nov. 8, there will be a World War II program based on Laura Hillenbrand’s best-selling book, Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption. Each day from Nov. 5-9, Hoover scout troops will honor veterans at 4:45 p.m. with a flag folding ceremony in front of the library. Nov. 5-8 and Nov. 10, children can receive a flag during story time programs and make crafts for veterans at the VA medical center. Children may also participate in a “Thank-A-Vet” poster contest. Also, patrons may visit the patriotic art show presented by artists of the Exceptional Foundation and submit a photograph of a veteran to be placed on the memorial Wall of Honor in the library’s main corridor.

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October 2012

Hoover Sun

Community

Artists on the Bluff

renewing Hoover’s creative spirit

New home to Hoover artists planning grand opening for October By MADOLINE MARKHAM Eighty-three years ago, a two-room schoolhouse was built in Bluff Park. The building would grow as a school and later serve as a community education building. But a year and half ago, Bluff Park Community School on Park Avenue was in disrepair. Its roof was sagging, and many classrooms were filled with junk. The building, beloved by the community, almost closed. But now new life has come. Linda Williams, a recently retired community education director for Hoover City Schools, turned the facility into a community of artists with teaching spaces. Artists on the Bluff will hold its grand opening event this month. Williams, a 40-year Bluff Park resident, knew firsthand how the area loved the building and valued the arts. The fit for an arts center was natural. “We have an edge,” Williams said. “We have a community that is family. There is really nothing like this in the city.” Rik Lazenby, another retired educator and longtime friend of Williams, moved his decorative arts studio to the Bluff Park building in the summer of 2011 and soon stepped in as its director. Both of them told

artists they knew about the space, and the word spread fast. There wasn’t an artist who looked at the space who didn’t take a studio. Currently, there is a waiting list for the 20 studio spaces. The entire building is budding with artistry: photography, theatre, ceramics, painting, jewelry making, woodworking, landscaping, even the Hoover Historical Society—and teaching of these art forms. Artists pay a modest rate for rent that includes utilities but have access to the facility at any hour. The space is their own, as splattered paint on floors and inspiration boards on walls attest. From the beginning, the committee behind Artists on the Bluff, which includes Williams, Lazenby, Dr. Ron Jones, Linda Chastain and Belle Jordan, worked closely with the city and then mayor Tony Petelos. Artists on the Bluff currently works in collaboration with Hoover City Schools and the City of Hoover, which has helped fund the project. The city has allocated them $50,000 a year for their first three years. “They believe in us,” Williams said. In addition to the studios, the Artists on the Bluff building features are several teaching spaces and other community

spaces. An ongoing gallery featuring the work of in-house artists and others runs along the hardwood hallway at the front of the building. All art showcased there is for sale. A second gallery, the Soon-Bok Lee Sellers Art Gallery, is currently hosting a national show of Alabama Plaster Society. The gallery was first created when the building was used for community education. The new Park Avenue Coffee Shop, open to both artists and the community, will serve coffee, pastries, cappuccinos, lattes, salads and sandwiches. The former cafeteria space will host special events and dinner theatres. Hoover Arts Alliance, City Council and Board of Education have already held meetings there. Williams’ enthusiasm about Artists on the Bluff is contagious. She is always inviting in walkers and joggers, including firemen on a run, to tour the building. “The excitement of the community has empowered us,” she said. For more information on Artists on the Bluff, their classes and their opening event, visit artistsonthebluff.com or call 439-2860.

Rik Lazenby and Linda Williams stand in front of some of Lazenby’s art on display in the new gallery in the Artists on the Bluff building. Photos by Madoline Markham.

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HooverSun.com

Moss Rock Festival By JACKIE WALBURN Moss Rock Festival — held in the shadow of one of the area’s most treasured nature preserves — will celebrate its seventh year as Alabama’s premier eco-creative event Nov. 3-4 at The Preserve. With Hoover’s 350-acre Moss Rock Preserve as its cornerstone, Moss Rock Festival features 100 nature-inspired artists, an eco-district with green-living ideas, products and services, live music, children’s activities and local foods. More than 15,000 visitors are expected during the free two-day event. The festival is “an explosion of sights, sounds and smells,” producer-director Eileen Kunzman said. “Everyone at Moss Rock Festival is wearing a smile. There’s something magical about it.” “I guarantee anyone who comes will not leave untouched,” said Kunzman, an artist and teacher who, after relocating to Birmingham, started Birmingham’s downtown art festival, the Magic City Art Connection. Kunzman and her company, Fine Art Services, have been part of Moss Rock Festival from its beginning as an event co-hosted by the city of Hoover, The Preserve and founding corporate sponsors including USS Real Estate, developer of The Preserve community. She credits the festival’s continued growth and success to corporate sponsorships — this year including Fox 6, Magic 96.5, Baptist Health Centers, Long Lewis Ford Lincoln, RealtySouth and Technical Knockout — plus an active board of directors, other volunteers, non-profit supporters including The Nature Conservancy, Friends of Moss Rock Preserve, and MyGreenBirmingham.com. She also credits growing support among artists, craftspeople and eco-conscious organizations and businesses. Festival hours run from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4. Shuttle buses from parking at Regions Park begin at 9:30 a.m. each day and continue an hour after each day’s festivities. For details on events, parking, recycling and to sign up for special events and competitions, visit MossRockFestival.com.

October 2012

expects more than 15,000

Join the fun!

Artist Row - Displays of art inspired by nature Eco-District - Displays focus

on conservation and “green living”

Design Challenges - Cake expo and tasting and design competitions

WonderKids - Fun for children of all ages Moss Rock Preserve - Hikes each day and Geocache events

The Big Ride - Bike the Preserve on a two-mile loop

Recycling - Bring old electronics,

conﬁdential papers for secure shredding, paper, plastic and aluminum

More than 100 artists sell works inspired by nature during the 2011 Moss Rock Festival. Photos courtesy Andrew Glass.

Explore Your Creative Potential

October 2012

Hoover Sun

Art, music, beer and wine, oh my! Uncorked! on the Green, Arts and Music on the Green gear up for 2012 event

Local retailers offer discounts for a cause

Visit uncorkedonthegreen.com

By REBECCA WALDEN On October 13, the community of Ross Bridge will host Uncorked! on the Green, a free craft beer and wine tasting event benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. Featuring more than 50 microbrews and a dozen wines, Uncorked! has become a popular Hoover tradition that hosted more than 6,000 attendees last year. Held in conjunction with the seventh annual Arts and Music on the Green, a juried art festival, Uncorked! offers live music on two stages, a sampling of featured menu items from local restaurants and a kid’s activities area. “Uncorked! On The Green was originally developed to boost attendance and enhance the atmosphere of Arts & Music on the

Green,” said Audrey AlversonStowe, events director for Classic Events, which manages the show. “We had no idea how well received this great tasting event would be. There are several other ‘tasting’ events that have high prices for participation. The popularity of this event has helped solidify the fact that event goers are looking for great events that are free.” To help connect local patrons with all that Hoover has to offer, Classic Events collaborates with the Hoover Arts Alliance and the City of Hoover to bring in locally sourced bands to the live music stages and also to recruit local restaurants, Hoover City School art program participants and local business owners. True to the spirit of the event, Alverson-Stowe recalled the memory of one patron from the

Work by artist Emily Neel on display during last year’s Arts on the Green Festival hosted by the community of Ross Bridge. This year’s event is scheduled for October 13.

inaugural Uncorked! event. “At the very first Uncorked! on The Green, the ground was saturated from rain the day before. With the huge crowd that came out, the lawn area became quite muddy. We thought we would lose that crowd for sure. But, the crowd grew even larger as people just went and grabbed their rain boots and stayed the entire day. I heard many people on their cells calling their friends to encourage them to come. One year

later, I had a guest tell me that his family still had their muddy boots in their carport as a true testament to how much fun they had at Uncorked! Fortunately, we haven’t had to have quite that much fun again.” Uncorked! on the Green Arts & Music on the Green • October 13 • Ross Bridge Community • Noon-5 p.m. • uncorkedonthegreen.com

Hoover High Library to host book sale The Hoover High School Library is hosting a book sale that will help make way for new furniture, work and charging stations in conjunction with Hoover City Schools’ Engaged Learning Initiative. The sale is open to the public and will last until all books are sold. Book inventory

includes thousands of titles deselected from the library’s catalog as they move to a more digital collection. Shoppers may stop by anytime between 7:45 a.m. and 3:45 p.m. on school days. Hardbacks are $1 and paperbacks are 25 cents. All proceeds will be reinvested in the li-

brary’s program budget. Hoover High School is located at 1000 Buccaneer Drive, 35244 and can be reached at 4391242. For more information on the sale, contact School Librarian Sonya Jordan, sojordan@ hoover.k12.al.us.

shopsaveshare.net

Wrappettes at Wrapsody in Patton Creek prepare for Shop Save & Share. They are: manager Anna Parker; Anna Kierce; Barbara Fullenwider; Meagan Ollie; and assistant manager Blair DeCoux.

The Junior League of Birmingham has partnered with local retailers and restaurants to bring back the annual Shop Save & Share (SSS) card fundraiser. Cardholders receive a 20 percent discount at more than 500 retailers and restaurants throughout the Birmingham area, including the best retailers located in Hoover. The $40 purchase of a SSS card is a donation to the Junior League of Birmingham that offers cardholders smart savings from Oct. 24 to Nov. 4 while supporting their community. Funds raised support the JLB’s community projects that address some of Birmingham’s most critical issues, including literacy, domestic violence prevention, health education and life skills for families in transition. Participating retailers include Books-A-Million, Calico Corners/Calico Home, Dancers Image, John John’s Jewelers, Kicks Shoes for Kids, Party City, Sew Precious, Thimbles and Thompson’s Frame Factory. The Junior League credits its sponsors, including The Outlet Shops of Grand River and LOFT, for contributing to the success for the event. Visit jlbonline.com or shopsaveshare.net to purchase your Shop Save & Share card and to review a complete listing of participating merchants and sponsors.

HooverSun.com

WOOFstock welcomes dog lovers from all walks of life By REBECCA WALDEN If you are a dog lover, owner or enthusiast, Veteran’s Park on Valleydale Road is where to be on October 13 for WOOFstock 2012. What started out in 1999 as a day at the park for people and pets has become a fullscale family affair, complete with contests, agility demonstrations, entertainment and a Kid Zone to occupy even the most persnickety kiddos. Dee Nance with Hoover Parks and Recreation said this year’s agility competitions include going over a ladder and weaving between posts, going through tunnels and more. Though the agility demonstrations will be limited to trained professionals, pet owners interested can learn more about them from the hosting. Also, Gary Shockley of Odenville and the Bama Air Dogs will perform. “The Bama Air Dogs are demonstration Frisbee dogs,” Nance said, describing the popular repeat performers from previous WOOFstock events. “We have an area we rope off and they will do a 15 minute show set to music about four times during the event.” Another popular aspect of the event is the dachsund Hallo“weenie” race, organized and hosted by Edgewood Elementary teacher Pamela Yau Smith. “We set up a course, and for a $10 entry fee, people can register their dog,” Nance said. “Registrants receive a T-shirt, and the race winner receives a trophy.” In addition, the judging contest is a main WOOFstock highlight, where categories range from “Cutest” and “Smallest” to “Ugliest” and “Looks Most Like Owner.” Event proceeds feed the Hoover Parks and Recreation Foundation, which divides WOOFstock funds raised among qualifying

local rescue agencies in the form of grants. “We have a lot of rescues that come,” Nance said. “They showcase their dogs, and we have a lot of adoptions. We always need volunteers to help out with the event, and that is where this grant idea was hatched. What’s required in the grant is 501c3 status, you have to be a pet rescue and you have to volunteer on the day of the event. These rescues earn any grant money they receive from us.” For the kids, WOOFstock offers inflatables, face painting, caricatures by Tim Rocks and much more. Highlights from the Kid Zone also include the Young Rembrandts and the opportunity to assemble a kit project such as birdhouses or toolboxes, courtesy of Lowe’s and The Home Depot. A $5 fee grants children all-day access to the Kid Zone. And of course, no festival is complete with an array of tempting food. From Roly Poly sandwiches to Blue Bell ice cream, this year’s event will be replete with dining options. If you are coming out, please consider bringing new pet supplies for donation. Jana Maynard, science teacher at Brock’s Gap Intermediate, runs Paws and Claws, an ancillary program to the WOOFstock event. It is essentially a partnership where any local rescue groups can send in a wish list of donation items, and then Maynard matches up interested Hoover City Schools with a rescue agency in need. For more information about WOOFstock or Paws and Claws, contact Dee Nance at nanced@ci.hoover.al.us.

WOOFstock

• October 13 • Veteran’s Park, Valleydale Road • 9 a.m.-2 p.m. • hooveral.org/Default.asp?ID=788

October 2012

Fourth annual Hayride and Family Night

Tractor-pulled hayrides around Veteran’s Park lake are just one of many attractions at the city’s fourth annual Hayride and Family Night.

By REBECCA WALDEN The city’s fourth annual Hayride and Family Night at Veteran’s Park off of Valleydale Road is a pre-Halloween, free family event that has drawn in 6,000 people in years past. “The Hoover Hayride and Family Night event was created four years ago to offer a safe environment for families with younger children to enjoy a night out at the park,” said Erin Colbaugh, events coordinator for the city of Hoover. “Everyone is encouraged to dress in a family-friendly costume and come and ride the decorated trailers and collect some treats.” Featuring tractor-pulled trailer beds piled high with bales of hay, the hayride route extends around the lake on the gravel pathway. Children are encouraged to dress up in their Halloween costumes. Face painting, magicians and balloon

artists will all be a part of the fun. “During this economy, families are looking for events and entertainment opportunities that are affordable,” Colbaugh said. “The Hoover Hayride and Family Night is the perfect night out! There is no charge for parking, admittance or the hayrides. Many Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce members will be participating in this event and set-up to give away lots of candy and treats to all the children in attendance.” Parking is free at Spain Park High School with shuttles running directly to the park.

Hayride and Family Night

• October 27 • Veteran’s Park, Valleydale Road • 5-8 p.m. • hooveral.org/Default.asp?ID=1361

10 October 2012

Hoover Sun

Bluff Park Art Show turns 49 By REBECCA WALDEN For many area residents, the Bluff Park Art Show – “Always the first Saturday in October” – as it is branded, is a cherished autumn tradition. An amalgamation of more than 140 artists, with artistic media representing 13 different categories, local high school jazz bands, Deep South comfort food (barbecue and brownies, anyone?) and the bright yellow school buses zipping up and down Tyler Road, it’s easy to see why the show remains a popular draw. “The park is small (we prefer to call it cozy) for a show of our size, but the venue is what makes it special,” said Jeff Pierson, show chair of the Bluff Park Art Association (BPAA). “The venue and the people. The trees, the rocks, the fall weather, riding the buses, the barbecue, eating the Methodist Women’s Group’s homemade baked goods, seeing old friends, meeting new artists and finding the artists whose work you’ve collected for years – that is Bluff Park.” Sculptor Nada Boner, a Bluff Park resident and Art Show exhibitor, agreed. She emphasized the show’s scope of influence on the next generation of artists and art collectors alike. “The location of the show brings families and folks that otherwise would not attend,” she said. “The mild weather brings out crowds young and old. Parents don’t shy away from including their children in the appreciation of art due to both the playground and kids art activities.” According to Pierson, BPAA has already seen the impact of this multi-generational passion come full circle. “We have members who were brought to the show in diapers, and every year afterwards, and now have taken their parents’ place on the board,” he said. “We have one founding member, Cary Moore, who is still active on the board and another, Sally Johnson who is an advisory member. Their continued influence guides the future of Bluff Park with an eye to our storied

Above: Bluff Park resident, sculptor and show exhibitor Nada Boner. Left, from top: artists Amy Crews, Charles Gatewood and Melanie Morris. Photos contributed.

past, traditions and reputation. Cary’s son got his start exhibiting at Bluff Park. You may recognize his name – Daniel Moore.” Longtime BPAA board member Billy Pennington spoke of the shared familial loyalty not only for art, but for this show in particular. “When I joined 33 years ago, Lois Albright was on the board,” he said. “At that time, her daughter Beth was just a little girl running around, scooting all over the park, and today she’s president. I think that says something about the show that now second generation people are involved.” For Marla Kenney, Hoover High School art

teacher and BPAA board member, the event also provides an outlet for voluntarism on the part of her students, all within an environment focused on art appreciation. “The Bluff Park Art Show is like our village fair,” Kenney said. “As a teacher, I have always encouraged and organized student participation. It is part of the community service program and allows art students and others to participate in a community event. They realize also that monies earned from the show support the community and the schools as a result.” Invitations to participate as an exhibiting artist only come after a rigorous jury process.

October 6, Bluff Park Community Center

“We require an artist to submit three representative works and a booth photo showing their work displayed,” Pierson said. “A jury consisting of randomly selected members of the BPAA view these submissions in a blind process, meaning that, for fairness, no artist names are attached to the works. We accept applications in 13 categories of artistic medium. The members of the jury vote independently after viewing the artists submissions, grouped by medium. Based on the total number of artists we can invite that year, again constrained by the size of our venue, we have a cutoff score. Those above that score are invited, and those below are not.” What this means for the event-goer is a vast and diverse collection of artistry to enjoy. “Only original art is allowed to be exhibited at the Bluff Park Art Show,” Pierson said. “No commercial reproductions or work composed from commercial molds or the like can be exhibited. As the focus of the show, original fine art is available to the patrons directly from the artist.” And thanks to the BPAA’s use of proceeds, art purchasers are supporting a cultural winwin. “Their stated mission is to promote art in the community,” Pennington said. “Toward that, they put on the show, but they also have a permanent collection which is composed of prizewinning pieces. Every year, one or two pieces from the show are selected and purchased to go into the permanent collection, now up to over 100 pieces, and they are hanging all over Hoover – in the schools, in the libraries, in the municipal buildings.” Show proceeds have also been used to commission artwork.

Bluff Park Art Show

• October 6 • Bluff Park Community Center • 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • bluffparkartshow.com

Free event, open to public

A Taste of Hoover coming this month Aldridge Gardens and the Hoover Sun are hosting the inaugural A Taste of Hoover on Thursday, Oct. 18 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. The event, held at Aldridge Gardens, will celebrate the variety of culinary styles found throughout the city of Hoover. The public is invited to come and taste samples from some of the city’s best restaurants, bakeries and other food establishments. Admission is free this year. Future events will be held in June and serve as a fundraiser for Aldridge Gardens. Participating restaurants include Beef O’Brady’s, Creekside Tavern, Earth Fare, Firebirds Rocky Mountain Grill, Fresh Art Café, G-Dogs & Gyros, Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ, Jubilee Joe’s, La Paz, Mikey’s Grill, Organic Harvest, Riff Burgers, Sumo Japanese Steakhouse, The Whole Scoop, Bistro Provare at Jefferson State and The Privileged Bride. Aldridge Gardens is located at 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover, 35216.

A Taste of Hoover

• October 18 • Aldridge Gardens • 5:30-8:30 p.m. • facebook.com/tasteofhoover

HooverSun.com

October 2012

Whispers from the Past Aldridge Gardens presents a Native American experience

By REBECCA WALDEN On Sunday, Oct. 7, Aldridge Gardens will host its third annual Whispers from the Past event. “‘Whispers from the Past: a Native American Festival’ came about after having a discussion with Moundville Archaeological Park about the lack of awareness in Jefferson County of the area’s rich Native American history,” said Rip Weaver, executive director of Aldridge Gardens. “Based on that conversation, we decided to do an authentic, honest festival, celebrating the everyday life and events of those who lived in this area. No plastic tomahawks here!” The event, which runs from noon-7:30 p.m., features something for everyone, including. • The Sylestine Legacy: See authentic pow wow dancing at 3 p.m. A second “black light” performance will be held at 6:30 p.m. • Flintknapping: Watch experts form arrowheads using primitive tools. • Cooking like the Indians: Hosted by independent scholar Chip Wente. • Josselyn Archaeological Collection from UAB: Hosted by Sharyn Jones, Ph.D., scholar led tours. See stone tools, pottery, ornaments and arrowheads excavated from 100 sites from across all Alabama. • Three Sisters Garden: Learn how Native Americans planted and cultivated their food. • Hands-on activities: Native American tattoos; grinding corn; loom beading; medicinal plant study; and scavenger hunt and throwing with an atlatl – an ancient weapon that is essentially a stick with a handle on one end and a hook or socket that engages a light spear or “dart” on the other. Also at the event, food vendors will serve roasted corn, fry bread and Indian tacos. A $3 activity card will grant children access to leaf pounding, clay coil pots and gourd crafts. Offsite parking and continuous shuttle service will be available. “Judging from the crowds we have had the last two years, there are many, many people that are

Right: Children enjoy the festival’s Native American themed arts and crafts. Above: The Sylestine Legacy will perform at this year’s Whispers event. Photos contributed.

interested in the Indian history of this area,” Weaver said. “Whispers has something for all ages — it is not just an event for kids!” Aldridge Gardens is located at 3530 Lorna Road and can be reached at 682-8019.

Whispers from the Past • October 7 • Aldridge Gardens • Noon-7:30 p.m. • Call 682-8019

VOTE

GLORIA

BAHAKEL

DISTRICT JUDGE, Place 6 (Criminal Court)

"Criminals belong behind bars" Elect a Judge who believes in the strong enforcement of our criminal laws.

Judicial experience: • 12+ Years Judicial Experience as a Criminal Court Trial Judge • Handled thousands of criminal cases, including Death Penalty Cases

Sensitive to Victims' Rights: • I will ensure that the rights of crime victims are protected • Sensitive to the rights of Abused and Neglected animals

Endorsed and Supported by Law Enforcement: • Endorsed by our Police Chiefs and Law Enforcement Community.

Jefferson County District Judge, Place 6/Republican County-wide Election- November 6 / Back of the Ballot www.GloriaBahakel.com Paid for by the Gloria Bahakel Judicial Campaign, 2131-12th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35234

October 2012

Hoover Sun

Delight of the DNC

YouthServe Director Banks receives makeover before representing Birmingham at a national convention

By REBECCA WALDEN Lauren Banks, executive director of YouthServe, received a makeover from Belk before jetting off to serve as a delegate at the Democratic National Convention. For the 2002 Hoover High School graduate, who has a long history of championing charitable causes, youth empowerment is more than a job – it is her life’s work. She said she loves to positively influence teens with respect to community voluntarism. “YouthServe is a great, local non-profit for teenagers in the greater Birmingham area,” Banks said. “There are no requirements to be a part of YouthServe, other than being 13-18 years old. At our camps this past summer, 46 area schools were represented. We bring together a diverse crosssection of young people to learn from each other, while serving in the community.” The company selected her for a lavish, preconvention makeover in observance of her leadership and community impact and because YouthServe is headquartered in Charlotte, which hosted the convention this fall. “Lauren’s work with local at-risk youth through YouthServe and her commitment to education align well with Belk’s long-standing commitment to benefit youth in our community,” said Ken Crow, general manager at Belk Riverchase. Banks said the experience was incredible.

“Everyone was so personable and helpful,” she said. “My favorite aspect was getting to keep all the wonderful clothes, bags and jewelry. Belk really spoiled me. I am so appreciative!” Arlene Goldstein, VP of Fashion at Belk, flew in to be Banks’ personal fashion assistant for the day. They picked out her clothes selection (one casual outfit, one business and one dressy) first. They went to Richard Joseph Salon for hair, then Mac for makeup before she got dressed for a photo shoot. Freshly styled and coiffed, Banks then flew to Charlotte for the Democratic National Convention where she served as an at-large delegate for the state of Alabama’s Democratic party. She attended caucus meetings, panel discussions, receptions and helped nominate President Barack Obama for a second term as the Democratic Presidential Candidate. Following the convention, as far as Banks was concerned, it was back to business. And she’s already looking forward to YouthServe’s next series of camps. “We’ve seen success in our program delivery,” she said. “More people are a part of our programs, especially our camps. For our last session of summer camp, we had a waiting list. It is a joy to watch young people grow up in our programs. Watching our teens mature and become leaders in their community is the coolest thing of all.”

Lauren Banks, left, and Belk VP of Fashion Arlene Goldstein pose after Banks’ fashion, makeup and hairstyling sessions.

HooverSun.com

The power of

October 2012

one

The origins of Birmingham’s Race for the Cure can be traced to a passionate survivor

Far right: Birmingham Race for the Cure Founder Carol Cauthen, center, with Thelma Brown and Rebecca DiPiazio. Right: Race participants pose following the 2011 event. By REBECCA WALDEN When more than 15,000 registrants lace up their sneakers and descend on Linn Park for Birmingham’s 21st annual Race for the Cure on October 20, most won’t know they’ve got quiet and unassuming Carol Robertson Cauthen to thank for the event. Cauthen began her battle with breast cancer in 1982 when the medical community knew little about the disease. After her diagnosis, she underwent a modified radical mastectomy and began the long healing process. “My diagnosis was prior to Betty Ford, prior to Nancy Reagan,” Cauthen said. “And at that time, women just didn’t talk about it. [Likewise], the doctor didn’t know what to tell me [about breast forms]. Basically, they just did the surgery and you went on your merry way.

Without any guidance or support, I had to do all the research on my own.” Research proved to be an effective step in her recovery, and Cauthen said she was educating doctors before her treatment was complete. Her research into the disease eventually led her beyond local medicine and into outreach. During a support group meeting at Brookwood Medical Center, Cauthen met with Nancy Brinker, sister of Susan G. Komen and founder of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Soon after, the idea of hosting a Birmingham race began to grow. With the backing of Brinker, a partnership with the American Cancer Society and the involvement of 10 Birmingham-area hospitals, plans for the inaugural race were set into swift motion. Now entering its third decade, the city’s Race for the Cure continues to

break its own fundraising records, with 75 percent of proceeds reinvested locally. The organization is also a recipient of grant funding, which she uses to further

“My diagnosis was prior to Betty Ford, prior to Nancy Reagan.” - Carol Cauthen outreach and education campaigns. “The first grant that we did was (used to screen) medically underserved women,” Cauthen said. “We paid for the x-rays, but our network of area hospitals donated the time to take and read the x-rays.”

Cauthen added that one of the biggest grants the organization has been awarded devoted $6 million to study triple-negative breast cancer, a form of the disease diagnosed in up to 20 percent of patients and does not respond to hormone treatments. After her mastectomy, Cauthen said she found it difficult to keep a positive outlook while undergoing the extensive healing process. Soon after, she opened Touching You, a Hoover retail store devoted exclusively to the garment and personal care needs of cancer patients “Throughout this experience, I realized that a positive attitude and personal appearance would be very important in my recovery,” Cauthen wrote on the store’s website, touchingyou.com. “However, the experience of purchasing wigs, breast forms and other necessary items to meet my needs, proved exhaust-

ing and frustrating.” Cauthen’s obvious compassion and can-do spirit make for contagious enthusiasm, which she brings out in full force each year at the race. With the same vigor and no-holds-barred advice she dispenses in her store, Cauthen hosts an annual survivors’ breakfast on the morning of the race. It is a time when she can empower and educate both newly diagnosed women and longtime survivors. “We want the survivors to get involved with the race,” Cauthen said. “This is a positive way for them to educate people about breast cancer and find a cure for it so that our daughters and our granddaughters won’t have to go through the same thing.” This year’s Race for the Cure will be held on October 20. For more information or to register, visit komenncalabama.org.

October 2012

Hoover Sun

Business Happenings Restaurants and more opening in Hoover Riverchase Galleria

Michael’s closes, La Paz coming

Recently, Michael’s Steak and Seafood at Riverchase Galleria closed to make way for a Mexican eatery, La Paz, which will serve up a festive atmosphere and flavorful dishes many in the area will find familiar. Charles Matsos, partner in the Michael’s at the Galleria, said owners of the steakhouse knew they wanted to duplicate La Paz, a successful eatery Matsos currently co-owns in Mountain Brook, and thought the Galleria space would be ideal. “There’s not a lot of Mexican out there, and none on that circle,” Matsos said of Hoover and the access road around the mall. Matsos said the new La Paz would feature a menu identical to La Paz in Mountain Brook that includes fish tacos, traditional tacos, fajitas, chips and salsa, plus margaritas and other drinks. Its highlights will include live music every Friday or Saturday night and extensive outdoor seating. Matsos said the Michael’s location in Homewood has seen a 20 percent increase in sales since the other restaurant shut its doors. He said it would remain open for area steak lovers, and fans of Mexican flavor can watch for La Paz to open the second week of October.

Tech troubles? iFix now open

iFix and Repair, which offers repairs to damaged smart phones, tablets and gaming systems, is now open on the second

floor of the Riverchase Galleria in Suite 202. Owners Kirk and Cindy Edmunds offer many other services related to cellular phones, tablets, gaming systems and computers. For more information, visit iFix and Repair online at ifixandrepair.com, or call them at 988-9555.

Trace Crossings

Work out with Fitness4U

Fitness4U, a new health hub in Hoover located in the Trace Crossings Shopping Center, held its grand opening in August. To learn more, drop by 2539 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 113, call 403-3305 or email fitness4u247@gmail.com.

Patton Creek

Cheeburger Cheeburger to open in October

Cheeburger Cheeburger, an invent-yourown Taste family-fun restaurant, is expected to open mid-October at 160 Main Street in the Patton Creek Shopping Center. The location will be part of the popular brand that offers 100 percent all-natural Angus beef burgers in five sizes, including a “Famous Pounder” challenge to customers. If completed, customers will have their picture hung on the Wall of Fame. The location will offer over 30 free toppings for the burgers, sandwiches, wraps and salads, serving hand cut fries and more than 1,285,000 shake flavor combinations. Cheeburger Cheeburger is located in 20 states and Canada and its owners said they are looking forward to “bringing the Bigis-Better concept, as a quality family dining option, to the community.”

This is the owners’ second location, with the other in Huntsville. Visit cheeburger.com for more information.

Chace Landing

Izzo’s Hoover location opens

Izzo’s Illegal Burrito, a Mexican restaurant that specializes in hand rolled burritos, tacos, salads, bowls, quesadillas and nachos from a made-from-scratch kitchen, is now open in Chace Landing Circle. Franchise owners, Mason Jambon, Paul Primeaux, MD and Deborah Sulzer-Primeaux opened the first Izzo’s in the Summit on year ago and are celebrating its anniversary with the new location, which is next to Five Guys Burgers at 4730 Chace Circle, Suite 116.

Highways 31, 150

McDonald’s upgrades

The McDonald’s in Hoover on Highway 31 near I-65 was recently demolished to make way for a newer building. Its owners have reopened, and they celebrated a ribbon cutting on September 11 hosted by the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce. This location is one of more than 40 Birmingham-area McDonald’s owned by Max Cooper, who opened his first McDonald’s in the Birmingham in 1966. Cooper was also the first ad manager for McDonald’s in 1964, and is responsible for the famous “two-all-beef-pattiesspecial-sauce-lettuce-cheese-pickles-onions-on-a-sesame-seed-bun” jingle that McDonald’s used for many years in the 1970s and 80s.

Chamber of Commerce events Oct. 4 - Economic Development Committee at Chamber Office, 8:30 a.m. Visitors welcome! Oct. 10 - Vendor Day at Hoover Police Department on Lorna Road. Contact Lt. Kenneth Fountain at 739-7230 or fountain@ci.hoover.al.us. Oct. 11 - Coffee & Contacts at University of Phoenix, 100 Corporate Parkway, Suite 250. Event from 7:30-9 a.m. Call 421-1202 or contact chris.breeding@phoenix.edu or phoenix.edu Oct. 17 - Ambassador Meeting at Chamber Office, 4:30 p.m. Visitors welcome! Oct. 18 - Hoover Chamber Luncheon at Hoover Country Club. Networking at 11:30 a.m., luncheon at noon. Make reservations by Monday, October 15. $17 or $20 without reservations. Oct. 23 - Minority Business Council meeting in Chamber Office, noon. Brown bag lunch. Visitors welcome! Oct. 25 - Business after Hours at BumperNets, Inc., 2000 Riverchase Galleria, Suite 179, from 5:30-7 p.m. Call 987-2222, or bumpernets.com

Animal clinic opens off Hwy. 150

Lake Crest Animal Clinic is now open at 551 Lake Crest Drive, adjacent to Highway 150. In-house veterinarians Jeremy Hodges, Shane West, Frank McClure, Brent Chandler and Vaughn Traywick offer preventive care, emergency and urgent care, and other services for dogs, cats, rabbits, pocket pets, reptiles and birds. Their clinic is also an “open hospital,” meaning pet owners are welcome to be present with their animals during many medical procedures. For more, visit lakecrestanimalclinic.com.

HooverSun.com

October 2012

Business Spotlight

FREEK on a LEESH

FREEK on a LEESH Pet BaZaar 1960 Braddock Drive, #100 freekonaleesh.com 978-8670

FREEK on a LEESH owners and their pups: Michael Thomas, Ellie Mae, Teeta, Samantha Higginbotham and Zeke. Photo courtesy of Samantha Higginbotham.

By REBECCA WALDEN With her dry wit, clear devotion to dogs and a rare kind of customer service, FREEK on a LEESH co-owner Samantha Higginbotham is poised to redefine the pet merchandising market. “FREEK on a LEESH is deliberately different from other pet specialty shops in the area,” she said. “We are not a prissy, polished boutique. We are rougher around the edges, more functional and practical, with a flare of hip

and funky.” Indeed. Owner shirts emblazoned with sayings such as, “It’s all fun and games until someone ends up in a collar,” and “I like big mutts and I cannot lie” are the norm here. “As a pet owner, I sought out places to shop, places that had fun, unique items that the big chain stores didn’t have,” Higginbotham said. “There aren’t many in the Birmingham area, so I knew people who are passionate about their furbabies like I am would

welcome a fresh alternative.” She said the community has responded well to the business, which she co-owns with Michael Thomas. Higginbotham has nearly 500 addresses on her newsletter list, more than 1,000 likes on Facebook and positive relationships with local rescue groups. So what’s with the name? Higginbotham said a female boxer named Lulu was the original “freak on a leash.” She was a stray – little more than skin and bones – who wandered

into her neighborhood wearing a collar without ID. Lulu was extremely wary of people and, unsurprisingly, had a bigger problem with leashes. Initially, her behavior on a leash would either include bucking and wiggling to free herself, or refusing to move as long as the leash was attached. Hence, her nickname. “Over time, she began to trust us, and her transition was truly remarkable,” Higginbotham said. “With love, direction and patience, she went from a skinny, scared and untrusting soul to a healthy, loving lap dog.” Rescue work is a priority for Higginbotham, whose store has supported local rescue groups with everything from fundraisers to professional photo shoots to micro-chipping events. She and Thomas also distinguish themselves from other pet-catering retailers by offering services that most are unwilling to do, like sedation-free grooming for cats. “Most grooming shops won’t groom cats,” she said. “They refer the pet parent to a vet clinic where they are typically put under.” Higginbotham’s sense of humor is

a trait that serves her well in this business, citing it’s not the pets, but their humans, who can sometimes leave her scratching her head in awe. Things like: • “I’m a nudist.” • “My ex-wife ran over me with the car and left me on the side of the road.” • “My dog passed away a few weeks ago and I had her cremated. She’s in the car, goes everywhere with me.” Higginbotham said a couple months ago she received a phone call from a man asking if the store rented snakes. He said he needed one for a demonstration. “Umm, no,” she replied. Although she can’t help you with your reptile rental needs, Higginbotham’s store does provide both professional and self-serve grooming, a professional photography studio complete with props and backdrops, organic food and treats, travel and safety products and a wide variety of toys, collars, leashes, harnesses and clothing. The store is located off Highway 31 the side of the Publix Shopping Center next to Nail Image.

October 2012

Hoover Sun

Food Lightened up tailgate By ERICA T. HOPPER It’s the most wonderful time of the year. No, it’s not Christmas already – it’s football time in the SEC! Every year it feels like the season comes and goes. We wait with baited breath for the first kick-off of our favorite team, all the while planning the menu for next weekend’s tailgate. And here in Alabama, the topic of conversation almost always circles back to food, no matter what time of year. So, whether you sing “Rammer Jammer” or “Rocky Top,” shout “War Eagle” or “Woo Pig Sooie,” this easy and light potato salad is sure to please. It will be gobbled up so quickly at your next tailgate party you’ll have requests for it well into the holiday season. Erica T. Hopper is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, where she earned a degree in Baking and Pastry. She is a freelance food stylist and recipe tester, who, when not in the Test Kitchens of Southern Living, can likely be found in the kitchen of close friends and Ross Bridge residents Joseph and Miko Kulovitz. Hoover residents may also recognize her as the face behind Simple Bites Gourmet (simplebitesgourmet.com), which provides all-natural, gluten-free, dairy-free protein bars.

Sage and goat cheese potato salad with honey mustard vinaigrette Ingredients 2 pound red potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes 2 small shallots, finely chopped 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons honey mustard 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1 teaspoon Kosher salt 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 4-ounce log herbed goat cheese, crumbled Place potatoes in a large saucepan. Cover with water, add about 1/4 cup salt and bring to a boil. Let boil 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender

when touched with a fork. Place potatoes in a large bowl and chill. Meanwhile, combine white wine vinegar, honey mustard, pepper and Kosher salt. Whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in olive oil. Whisk until well combined. Add shallots, celery and sage to potatoes. Pour vinaigrette over potato mixture and lightly toss together. Serve immediately, or chill until ready to serve. Share your recipes with Hoover neighbors! If you have a recipe to share with your local community, contact us with your idea at Rebecca@hooversun.com.

Sooie!

Pig Iron BBQ challenge brings out big grills, big bills

16th Annual Pig Iron BBQ Challenge Benefitting Children’s Harbor Friday, October 19, 5-8 p.m. Hoover Recreational Vehicle Park, Adjacent to Region’s Park (Hoover Met) By REBECCA WALDEN Since 1996, they’ve come out with their cleverly-themed booths, their costume and their ‘cue. Corporate citizens from throughout Birmingham have rallied behind Jim Ray’s Children’s Harbor, and support for the annual fundraising event continues to flourish. Recognized as a family friendly evening out, the Pig Iron BBQ Challenge attracts nearly 10,000 guests annually. Participating corporate teams buy into the event at a fee of $1,500, with the majority being tax deductible. Event proceeds support the Children’s Harbor Family Center, located at Children’s of Alabama, which provides free services to families with seriously ill children. “The initial idea was to create a corporate tailgate where companies could invite their friends and customers,” said Jim Ray, CEO of Children’s Harbor. “But people really took it to the next step. Many participating companies view this as something of a team-building exercise. Before we knew it, we’d outgrown the event space we were using at Sloss Furnaces, and we moved the event to Children’s Hospital where it stayed for the next seven years.”

Around that time, the late Julia McClure, a former Children’s Harbor board member, began encouraging Ray to move his increasingly popular event to the city of Hoover. “The city has been a wonderful partner to the event, putting all its resources behind it,” Ray said. “We now have unlimited growth potential in the Regions parking lot.” The event boasts live musical entertainment, children’s activities and the spectacle of how creative many participants can be with their event booths. “Last year we stepped up our game and used a Disney theme for our venue,” said S.S. Nesbitt and Company’s Gordon Walden, who sported his Dopey costume from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs last year. “We had a wonderful experience being part of a fundraiser for such a worthy organization. Oh, and our barbecue won another trophy.” This was Nesbitt’s third barbecue trophy earned in only two years of competition. “It’s an event for everyone from age 2 to 92 to have fun, eat plenty of barbecue, help raise funds for Children’s Harbor and spend an inexpensive evening with friends and family on a beautiful fall night.”

HooverSun.com

October 2012

Restaurant Showcase

Creekside Tavern Patrons of Patton Creek’s newest restaurant already feel at home By JACKIE WALBURN Creekside Tavern opened in August in the former Carino’s Italian space across from DSW in the Patton Creek shopping center. The business is a dream venture for owners Blake and Margee Sly and Keith and Jill Dischler. “We’ve always wanted to open our own restaurant,” said Blake Sly, who has worked in the restaurant business for years. “This location draws from all communities.” The seven-day-a-week, 212-seat restaurant boasts a full bar and a varied menu including entrees of seafood, steak and chicken, sandwiches, salads, soup, pastas, appetizers, brick oven pizzas and signature desserts. The restaurant employs about 80 with full service dining and an open kitchen where patrons can see their brick oven pizza being cooked or one of the seafood entrees being grilled. “We already have a lot of regulars, and we’re proud of that. They tell us they feel immediately at home,” Sly said. “My wife and

Jill were in charge of making that atmosphere happen, each taking different rooms in the restaurant to decorate and make ours. We think it’s worked, based on what we hear from our customers.” Creekside Tavern got its name from Patton Creek and its homey atmosphere from the combined efforts of its female owners and local artists, including a teenager who creates evolving, paintinglike scenes on giant chalkboards. Chalkboards play a part in the atmosphere. Every table has its own small chalkboard (and piece of chalk), and hanging in the main rooms are custom-chalkdrawn giant blackboards, created by Annabelle Decamillis, a Spain Park High School senior who has already garnered a national art award. Creekside Tavern’s party room, a private dining area where pen-and-ink caricatures of local sports and media figures line lighted shelves, is booked for groups. A buffet of favorite dishes can be arranged. Early party room bookings included business meetings, where

the large television is used for Powerpoint presentations, bridal parties and all kinds of reunions, Sly said. A wi-fi room, located to the left of the entrance, is a cozy room and popular social hour gathering with cushioned chairs and a table for eight. Favorite dishes include a Monte Cristo sandwich, a tripleclub battered and deep fried and served with a sprinkling of powdered sugar and a side of raspberry preserves. Other popular entrees are Tequila Lime Mahi Mahi and the Blackened Tilapia. Favorites among the custom desserts are Limoncello Cream Cake and the Ultimate Cookie Sundae. In addition to the standard lunch and dinner menus, Creekside features an already-popular Sunday brunch buffet from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Order takeout or book the Party Room by calling 402-7281.

Creekside Tavern 4330 Creekside Avenue, Patton Creek Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-midnight Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 402-7281

Creekside Tavern, pictured above, is a new restaurant offering in the Patton Creek shopping area. Its Monte Cristo sandwich, left, is already a customer favorite. Photos by Jackie Walburn.

October 2012

Hoover Sun

Opinion Life Actually By Kari Kampakis

My South By Rick Watson

Comparison is the thief of joy

California Dreamin’

Recently I watched a bridal reality 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, show in which a full-figured bride for everything you do flows from it.” To me shopped for wedding gowns with her this means making conscious efforts to keep sister, who looked like a supermodel, and negative thoughts out. It means treating my her mom. heart like I do my home so I can sleep in Early on, the bride confessed her peace at night. insecurities. Naturally, she wanted to look If I leave the door wide-open, or even beautiful on her big day, but she worried unlocked, intruders have access. But if I she’d never find a dress to hide her flaws. lock it and set the alarm, I have a warning She also worried about feeling like an system. I have time to react. Intruders ugly duckling next to her sister because may still come, but they won’t stay long, that had been their ongoing dynamic. because there’ll be sirens going off and cops Kampakis All her life, she said it would happen hurrying over to cart them off my property like this: After spending hours getting in handcuffs. ready, she’d think she looked great. But once she saw her Keeping intrusive thoughts out is easier said than done, sister, her feelings deflated because her sister looked better. but I believe we can train our minds. One way to cure an The sadness on this bride’s face was heartbreaking, and I inferiority complex is to remember no one has to fail for us to eventually got so depressed I had to switch channels. succeed. We’re all designed to be winners, all members of the This show reminded me of how easily comparison leads to same team. People peak and valley at different points in life, self-sabotage. Physically speaking, this bride was no match and just because someone’s hitting home runs while we’re for her sister, even on her best day. But what the camera failed striking out doesn’t mean our day in the sun won’t come. to capture were the qualities that made this bride sparkle. If someone in particular has a stronghold over you, try Surely she outshone her sister in other ways, ways that were pushing through your feelings with prayer. Ask God to soften less obvious to the naked eye but still very important. your heart so you can admire their gifts, not envy them. It All of us struggle with feelings of inferiority. All of us takes time, but it works, especially if your prayer is sincere. know what it’s like to feel on top of the world one minute When it comes to blessings, God spreads the wealth. No and crummy the next because someone has it better. With our one gets it all. While I wish I could sing like Adele, write like status jeopardized, the claws come out. We get competitive, Rick Bragg and look like Elle Macpherson, I must focus on envious, fixated on ways to keep our opponent down. We being me. I must excel in my areas of expertise and nip any start down a road of negative thinking, and the farther we pity party in the bud. walk, the harder it is to turn around. Comparison sucks the joy out of life and turns happiness When Teddy Roosevelt said, “Comparison is the thief of into stone. By treating it like an intruder, and arming our joy,” he hit the nail on the head. It is the thief of joy, and a hearts against it, we free ourselves to enjoy life with a murderer at that. It kills our spirit, our drive and our love for healthier, happier, and more productive attitude. our fellow man. And like a home intruder, it catches us offguard. It can bind us up when we least expect it and hold us Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a Birmingham mom of four captive in our own residence. with a background in PR, writing and photography. Visit her But notice the operative word here is “can.” Happiness website at www.karikampakis.com, ﬁnd her on Facebook is a choice, and so are the thoughts we entertain. Proverbs and Twitter or contact her at kari@karikampakis.com.

Have you ever I was not a rehad a song get stuck bellious kid, but in your mind like an hearing that song audible tattoo? made me want to The other mornpack my belonging when I stepped ings into a bag out to feed the chickand hit the road ens, the grass was so for San Francisco. thick with dew that My wife, Jilda, my shoes looked as said she was 15 if I’d been wading when she bought in a creek. After fillher first copy of ing the feeders with that record. She cracked corn and layplayed it so much Watson ing mash, I walked the needle of her over to the fence to phonograph pracsurvey the morning sky. I had stood tically wore grooves through the vithere a long time lost in thought when nyl. By the time we married in 1974, I realized I was humming the tune to it had been played so many times, I “California Dreaming.” I hummed or think I could have seen through it had whistled it all day long. I held it up to a decent light. Just thinking about that song is like Fast forward to this past week – stepping into a time machine with the our yoga buddy Janie bought an old dial set to August 1967. CD by the Mamas and Papas at a yard I was 16 the first time I heard the sale. She brought it to class on MonMamas and Papas do that song. We day night and gave it to Jilda as a gift. didn’t have a record player then, but On the way home, my spouse put my sister had a Sylvania transistor ra- the CD in her player and jacked up dio the size of a brick and the color the volume so loud my nose bled. of the setting sun. It had a tan leather All the leaves are brown, case with a long strap so you could leaves are brown, carry it over your shoulder. And the sky is gray, She let me listen to it one night in the sky is gray the summer of 1967. I laid down that According to Rolling Stone maganight with the radio on my pillow. It zine, “California Dreaming” is one was turned down low so not to disturb of the most popular songs of all time. the family, but “California Dream- So it would seem a lot of people had ing” came pouring through that tiny speaker loud and clear. See WATSON | page 19

Saturday, October 13th 9am to 5pm Ross Bridge Welcome Center 2101 Grand Avenue Hoover, AL 35244

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HooverSun.com

October 2012

School House Watson

CONTINUED from page 18 the same reaction to it as I did. It’s a mystery to me why some music resonates and other music is forgotten quicker than the junk mail that comes in the mornings. “California Dreaming” happened to come along during a time in my young life when I was full of expectation and angst about what I wanted to do with my future. I knew I wanted to go places and do things that were well beyond the vision of the future my mom and dad shared for me. They wanted me to go to school, find a job, get married and buy a house nearby. A yard full of grandkids would have been icing on the cake. But at 16, I wanted to do something remarkable. The song became a part of my life story, and that’s why I still carry it with me after all these years. Rick Watson can be reached at cwatson310@charter.net

New tech comes to Hoover students By JASON GASTON This fall, Hoover City School’s Engaged Learning Initiative will bring new digital learning devices to students. “The Engaged Learning Initiative will allow my teachers to serve more as facilitators of personalized learning for students,” said Dr. Tamala Maddox, principal of Bumpus Middle School. “Because of this initiative, instruction and assignments can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.” The project is an expansion of a small pilot project that took place during the 2011-2012 school year at Gwin and Green Valley elementary schools. In September, Nook tablets made

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On Friday nights, 20 eighth grade students at Simmons Middle School won’t be found at a football game, but rather in a lab designing, building and promoting a robot for the UAB BEST Robotics competition. At the Warp XX competition, October 6 at Bartow Arena, the students’ robot will climb a 10-foot pole, simulating the use of a space tether connected from Earth to a satellite. About 30 teams of students interested in engineering from high schools and middle schools around the area will compete. Last year, Simmons’ robot placed seventh in the BEST competition.

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Students prepare for robotics competition

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carry out general study in and out of the classroom. The devices will further individualize and differentiate instruction, allowing students to learn at their own paces and in different ways. In many respects, the devices will begin to take a lead role in terms of tasks traditionally accomplished through workbooks and textbooks. “We are going to use technology to help us reach each learner and personalize his or her instruction to maximize each child’s potential,” said Brian Cain, principal of Simmons Middle School. “Technology is the 21st century version of the pencil, textbook and notebook all in one case that allies students the chance to study the world in a moment of time.”

The third annual Simmons Middle School Band Costume Concert and “Trunk or Treat” will be held Monday, October 29 at 7 p.m. in the SMS Lower Gym. The Beginning Band, Concert Band, Honor Band and Jazz bands will perform “spooky” music in costume. The evening will culminate in a trunk or treat for children in costume in the SMS front parking lot. All events are open to the community. Prizes will be awarded for costumes and trunks.

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Select elementary and middle school students, as well as all Hoover and Spain Park high school seniors, received iPads to use this school year. Photo courtesy of Hoover City Schools.

by Barnes & Noble were distributed to students in select elementary and middle school classrooms, while seniors attending both Hoover and Spain Park high schools received Apple iPads. Apple and Barnes & Noble have both provided training and support for the digital devices. The devices remain the property of Hoover City Schools and are assigned to students. If all goes well, plans call for the initiative to eventually provide each student in grades 3-12 a Nook or iPad by the 2013-2014 school year. Overall, the initiative is designed to enrich the learning experience for students by allowing them to use web-based research and applications to problem solve, do homework and

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

20 October 2012

Hoover Sun

Sports Jaguars to tackle tough schedule in October Upcoming Schedule Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

Thompson Oak Mountain Stanhope Elmore Pelham Oxford

Away Home Away Home Home

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

By JEFF THOMPSON

Spain Park quarterback Nick Mullins takes down a ball carrier from Chelsea High School on Sept. 14. Through four games in 2012, Mullins had completed 100 passes for 1,182 yards and nine scores with only three interceptions. The Jaguars went into their game Sept. 28 against Lee in Montgomery on top of 6A Region 4 with a 3-1 record and three straight wins in region play. Photo courtesy Cari Dean.

Spain Park hosting discussion on NCAA eligibility guidelines On October 16, Spain Park High School will host a program titled NCAA Eligibility: What Parents and Students need to know. The event will be held in the Spain Park High Theater from 6-7 p.m. and will focus on athletic eligibility guidelines for high school players planning to continue in their

Hoover crowns Dinsmore

sports at the collegiate level. The program will be presented by Tracy Prater, Spain Park High School College and Career Specialist, and Patrick Kellogg, Spain Park High School Athletic Director. Corey Bray, UAB Associate Athletic Director for NCAA Compliance, will present the program’s keynote speech.

After stumbling out of the gate, Spain Park Head Football Coach Chip Lindsey said the goal for the rest of the season is to take things one game at a time. And while staring down a challenging road through October, he’s making sure his Jaguars follow his lead. “We have a really mature team, and our seniors are fantastic leaders,” Lindsey said. “But don’t think for one minute that I’m thinking about anything but the next opponent.” On August 31, the Jaguars lost 37-24 to Austin to open the 2012 season. The Alabama Sports Writers’ Association now has Austin ranked in the state’s top 10. Over the next three games though, the Jaguars rose to the top of 6A Region 4 with three straight region wins. The team’s maturity led them past last year’s state champions, the Prattville Lions, nearby Chelsea, which came boasting big wins in against John Carroll Catholic School and Thompson, and Wetumpka. Wetumpka lost to Prattville by 30 points earlier in the season, and going into that game, the Jags were averaging 29 points a game and allowing 26. Although final scores had been mostly in the Jags’ favor, their opponents were averaging 417 yards per game to Spain Park’s 401. However, after the Jags’ defense turned it up against Wetumpka, allowing a manageable 290 yards and holding Wetumpka quarterback De

Hutchinson to five completitions on 15 attempts. Jaguar quarterback Nick Mullins was intercepted twice in the Wetumpka game though, with the first leading to a touch down and the second being returned for a score. “We’ve got a lot of improving to do, but I really like the program,” Lindsey said. Through the win over Wetumpka, Mullins had completed 100 passes for 1,182 yards and 13 scores and Jags rushers Otis Harris and Kevron McMillin combined for 273 total yards on 118 carries. Mullins top target, receiver Ben Olinger, pulled in 24 of 28 passes thrown his way, racking up 304 total yards. Receivers highlighting the game against Wetumpka were Drake Grisham, who had five catches for 63 yards, and Phillip Brown, who had three catches for 81 yards. On defense, Jacob Wolkow led the team with 37 total tackles and a pair of sacks. Lindsey said the team was inexperienced at the offensive line and secondary positions, but they were working daily to find the right combinations of players in those positions. The biggest challenge facing Spain Park this month, Lindsey said, will be its regional match up against rival Oak Mountain High School (31, region 2-1) on October 12, but games against Stanhope-Elmore (3-1, region 2-1) and rival Pelham (3-1, region 2-1) the two weeks after will make it easy for the Jaguars to stay focused on what’s around the bend rather than what’s on the horizon.

2012 Homecoming Queen

Hoover High Homecoming Court From left are: Tess Davis, freshman, daughter of Russell Davis; Erin Nation, Sophomore, daughter of Melissa Nation; HHS Queen Kathryn Dinsmore, senior, daughter of Kellett and David Dinsmore; HHS King Sam Wunderly, senior, son of Melissa King; Katherine Tracy, senior, daughter of Kathy and Robert Tracy; and Caroline Conrad, junior, daughter of Karen Conrad. Photos courtesy of Hoover High School.

HHS Queen Kathryn Dinsmore

Bucs to commemorate 50 years of football Although Hoover High School celebrated its Homecoming with a 50-0 win over Jackson-Olin last month, the Bucs are preparing for an event of similar size when it hosts Minor on October 19. That night, Hoover will commemorate 50 years of football at both Berry and Hoover High Schools and the storied success the programs have achieved. Over those 50 years, Hoover celebrates 39 winning seasons, eight state championships

and an overall record of 412-158-7. Hoover Athletic Director Myra Miles said the school wants to recognize anyone involved with the program over the last half century – from former players and coaches to cheerleaders and band members. She encouraged anyone interested in participating to email JeNorri Armstead in the Hoover athletics department office at jarmstead@hoover.k12.al.us.

Hoover season notes The Hoover High Bucaneers head into October off a tough matchup with cross-town rival Vestavia Hills. Before the schools met, both were ranked in the Alabama Sports Writers’ Association top 10 for 2012, with Hoover at

the top spot. The Bucs are also listed in the top 25 in multiple national polls. Bucs Head Coach Josh Niblett said he hopes to see the team iron out any kinks and peak on its way into a matchup with Opelika on

Upcoming Schedule

Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 1

Nov. 1, but through four games in 2012 Hoover has scored 211 points while only allowing 30 from opponents. Behind quarterback Connor Short, the team looks poised to maintain a high ranking heading into the state playoffs.

Bessemer City Hillcrest Minor Tuscaloosa Co. Opelika

Home Away Home Away Home

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

HooverSun.com

October 2012

How well do you know

your public library?

Notable acts

The library’s past success seems to be an incubator for future successes as well, substantiated by the talent track record of The Library Theatre, now in its 21st season. According to Matina Johnson, the library’s fine arts coordinator, memorable acts include Los Lonely Boys, Marc Cohn, Jim Brickman, Loudon Wainwright III, Pam Tillis, Colin Hay, Nickel Creek, Leon Redbone and many others. This year the Theatre will welcome performers Lorrie Morgan and Edwin McCain, as well as the National Tour of Pride & Prejudice.

“The nonfiction section is the history, discovery and National Geographic channels of the Hoover Public Library rolled into one,” said Bryce Thornton, business librarian. “A patron can come to our department and travel anywhere in the world, consult with any expert or gather as much information as they need, on any given subject, with one click or turn of the page.”

Celebrations Singleton-Phillips

Rebecca Powell Singleton and Andrew (Drew) Dennis Phillips married June 30 at Bluff Park United Methodist Church. Pastor Rob Willis of Brook Highland Community Church officiated the ceremony. The reception was held at the Avon Theatre. The bride is the daughter of George and Alice Singleton of Hoover and a 2002 graduate of Hoover High School. The groom is the son of Dennis and Debra Phillips of Snellville, Ga. She was given in marriage by her father, George Singleton. The maids of honor were Sara and Susanna Singleton, the bride’s sisters. The best man was Dennis Phillips, the father of the groom. The couple honeymooned in Kiawah Island, S.C. and now reside in Birmingham.

Crozier-Niven

Tom and Vicky Crozier of Hoover announce the engagement of their daughter, Ashley Crozier, to Steven Niven, son of Steve and Gail Niven of Hoover. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Sylvia and Paul Garbe of Mt. Clemens, Mich., and Marge and Keith Crozier of Marietta, Ga. Miss Crozier is a 2007 graduate of Hoover High School and a 2011 summa cum laude graduate of University of Alabama. She is currently employed as a third grade teacher at Englewood Elementary in Tuscaloosa County. The prospective groom is the grandson of Marie and Bob Hartley of Columbiana and Jolane and Willard Short of Bessemer. He is a 2004 graduate of Hoover High School and is currently employed as a commercial lender at Cadence Bank in Tuscaloosa. The wedding will be held June 8, 2013 at the Southern House and Garden in Tuscaloosa.

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

The library offers 24/7 access to many databases. “Through these databases, patrons can access popular magazines, medical and business information and career guidance that they cannot find by just surfing the web,” Thornton said.

Computer access

A new online service called “Universal Class” offers wide variety of subjects including computer training, language, mathematics, medical billing and recreational and hobby classes. In addition, computer classes are free and are offered each month, though registration is required. These classes are also available in Spanish taught by area businessman Juan Lopez.

Online databases

The Hoover Sun will publish an ongoing article series about the Library’s special events and programs. For immediate information about Library events, visit hooverlibrary.org. For a list of Hoover Public Library’s October programs and events, please see the Events Calendar on page 23 of this issue.

Free classes

The Hoover Public Library welcomed nearly 700,000 patrons through its gates in the past year. As a cultural mainstay of the community, it offers free access to arts and enrichment programs, comprehensive technology services, an inventory of books and multimedia to rival almost any public library throughout the Southeast. “Our library is not your grandmother’s library,” said Assistant Library Director Amanda Bonner. “Forget dusty books and stodgy librarians. We are the ‘it’ place to be, and have all types of materials for your informational and entertainment needs – a café, theatre programs, tons of relevant children’s programs, movies, books, computers, ebooks and even musical performances. It’s more than a library – it’s the hub of the community, a notable arts center, a children’s wonderland. It’s a ‘you can’t believe it ‘til you see it’ library.”

According to Library Director Linda Andrews, the library’s reputation as a destination in its own right is an image she and her staff have worked deliberately to build. “Many people have found our library to be the ‘Third Place’ in their lives,” she said. “First is home, second is work, and for many people, the library can serve as the third place where they can come to escape and find a magical world with so much to offer.”

World travel

By REBECCA WALDEN

The Library also offers more than 70 public access computers from which patrons can access the Internet, email, Microsoft Office products and online databases. Through the facility’s laptop lending program, patrons can check out laptops for use anywhere on the Library’s 85,000 square foot campus.

GALLERIA

CONTINUED from page 1 removal of the old elevators will take place. “The public will always have operational elevators through the entire renovation process,” Hendricks said. “There will be no interruption of public use.” With public restroom renovations on schedule for completion prior to the holiday shopping season, Hendricks said upgrades and touchups to the mall entrances would be completed in 2013 to minimize interruption during upcoming peak shopping months. As much work as possible will be completed at night, but for daytime construction, project crews have created efficient detour routes for mall patrons. “These renovations are critical to the success of the Riverchase Galleria,” said area resident Kari Parker, who lives off South Shades Crest Road. “There are so many other options in the Birmingham area, but I would still prefer to shop 10 minutes from my home.” That attitude is the driving force behind the remodel. Riverchase Galleria co-owners General Growth Properties, a Chicago-based real estate investment trust, and Jim Wilson & Associates of Montgomery, intend for the renovations to bring the mall to a state of excitement it hasn’t seen since it was built in 1986. Christopher White, marketing manager of Riverchase Galleria, said executives expect the redevelopment could have an approximate $100 million impact on the local economy – more than any current mall redevelopment he knows of in the entire country. However, new stores scheduled to open this fall are another reason the mall will attract more customers. “Anytime you have a redevelopment of this magnitude,” he said, “higher-end retailers are usually very interested in looking at your property.” In the near term, White said new stores including Von Maur, Jared’s – The Galleria of Jewelry, Pandora and Destination Maternity will be added to the shopping lineup. Von Maur, scheduled to open next year in the former Macy’s location, is an Iowa-based upscale specialty department store. Currently operating 27 locations across 11 states, Von Maur’s Riverchase Galleria store will be its first in Alabama. Hallmarks of Von Maur stores include interest-free credit, free gift wrapping and shipping and live piano music during shopping hours. Riverchase Galleria is co-owned by General Growth Properties, a Chicago-based real estate investment trust, and Jim Wilson & Associates of Montgomery. “Hoar Construction is very excited about being a part of the renovation of the Riverchase Galleria and about undertaking another project with General Growth Properties, one of our best clients,” Hendricks said. “It’s exciting to be able to take part in a project that is of interest to the community and also at a location where our families actually shop and spend time.”

EMERGENCY

CONTINUED from page 1 approve requests for both parties came because the area has a need for a facility of this type and the board sought to do what was best for the people. He said he suggested during the meeting that UAB West and Princeton to consider working together. “The board felt like both parties in this case had the expertise to open a free-standing emergency room,” Morrison said. “I still hope they can work on a joint venture, but there is a need in that part of the world, and at the end of the day, all we care about is getting people the services they need.” UAB Medical West proposed to build its facility in Hoover in October 2011, and Baptist Medical announced its plans the following month. Both filed for Certificates of Need in December 2011.

October 2012

Hoover Sun

Community Calendar Arts & Entertainment Iron Horse Cafe ironhorsecafe.net Oct. 2 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 3 – Acoustic Night Oct. 4 – Violent Stupidity Oct. 5 – Mr. Mayhem Oct. 6 – Fly By Radio Oct. 7 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 9 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 10 – Matt Hill Band Oct. 10 – Acoustic Night Oct. 11 – Violent Stupidity Oct. 12 – Deputy 5 Oct. 13 – Downstroke Oct. 14 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 16 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 17 – Rex Murphy Oct. 18 – Violent Stupidity Oct. 19 – Tragikly White Oct. 21 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 23 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 24 – Acoustic Night Oct. 20 – Velcro Pygmies Oct. 25 – Violent Stupidity Oct. 26 – Naked Eskimos Oct. 27 – Halloween Party w/ Reckless Oct. 28 – Johnny D Karaoke Oct. 30 – Johnny D Karaoke

Comedy Club Stardome stardome.com

Oct. 3 – Matt Davis Oct. 5-7 – Gary Owen Oct. 9-14, Oct. 16-21 – John Morgan Oct. 26-27 – Ricky Smiley

Hoover Public Library hooverlibrary.org Oct. 25 – The Chad Fisher Group and His Six Piece Band, 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre, Plaza Stage

Gabriel’s Cafe Oct. 1 – Matt and Sean, Oct. 2 – Erica and Soulshine Oct. 3 – Indecent Exposure Oct. 8 – Matt and Sean Oct. 9 – Citizen Jayne Oct. 15 – Matt and Sean Oct. 16 – Todd Simpson Oct. 17 – Tricky Sixx Oct. 22 – Matt and Sean Oct. 23 – Dirt Road Lizzards Oct. 24 – Jim Parks Band Oct. 29 – Matt and Sean Oct. 30 – Handshake Promise

Classes/Workshops Oct. 11 – “How Social Security Works, and How to Maximize Your Benefits.” 7-8:30 p.m. Scott Cole, financial analyst, Alabama’s 13. Hoover Public Library. Oct. 16 – Lunch and Learn. Noon. Senior Center. Hoover Municipal Complex. Call 739-6700. Oct. 17 – “How to Find Grants Using Library Resources.” 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. Hoover Public Library. Visit hooverlibrary.org. Oct. 23 – Horizons Luncheon. 11 a.m. Senior Center. Hoover Municipal Center. Call 739-6700. Oct. 27 – Write Club Meeting. 10:30 a.m. Hoover Public Library. Visit hooverlibrary.org.

Area Events Sept. 30 – Hot Strings Fest. Noon-6 p.m. The Preserve. Benefiting The Foundry Rescue Mission and Recovery Center. Visit thefoundryonline.org/ hotstrings. Oct. 6 – Bluff Park Art Show. Bluff Park Community Center, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit bluffparkartassociation.org. Oct. 7 – Whispers from the Past: A Native American Festival. Noon-7:30 p.m. Aldridge Gardens. Call 682-8019 or email rweaver@aldridgegardens.com. Oct. 12-13 – Fall Plant Sale. Aldridge Gardens. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. Call 682-8019 or email rweaver@aldridgegardens. com. Oct. 13 – WOOFstock. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Veteran’s Park. Contact Dee Nance at nanced@ci.hoover. al.us. Oct. 13 – Uncorked! on the Green and Arts and Music on the Green. Noon-5 p.m. Ross Bridge Resort. Email audrey@ classiceventsinc.com or call 9510412. Oct. 13-14 – Celebrate Schools! Noon-5 p.m. Riverchase Galleria. A weekend pep rally where area schools showcase their best, raise funds and awareness for their school and celebrate the school/community partnership. Call 985-3020. Oct. 18 - A Taste of Hoover. 5:308:30 p.m. Aldridge Gardens. Celebrate the variety of culinary styles found throughout the city of Hoover. Visit hooversun.com. Oct. 19 – Pig Iron BBQ Challenge.

Moonlight on the Mountain moonlightonthemtn.com Oct. 1 – Open Mic Night. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 3 - The Brock McGuire Band Oct. 4 – Hanna Thomas Band and Marshall Chapman Oct. 5 – Larry Mitchell Band, with Redemption Row Oct. 10 – Grace Pettis *Special CD Release Event* Oct. 11 – Keith Moody Band Oct. 12 – Craig Carothers Oct. 14 – Michelle Malone *A Benefit for the CHIPS Center* Oct. 15 – Open Mic Night Oct. 18 – Claude Bourbon Oct. 19 – Elizabeth Cook, with Tim Carroll opening Oct. 24 – Birds of Chicago, and Sean Hayes Oct. 25 – The Milk Carton Kids, with Leslie Stevens opening Oct. 26 – Phil Lee

5-8 p.m. Regions Park RV Lot. Call 857-2133. Oct. 20 – Hoover High School Band Festival. Regions Park. For more, visit www2.hoover.k12. al.us/schools/hhs/band or email rfitchpatrick@hoover.k12.al.us Oct. 22 – Monday at the Movies: Vertigo. 2 p.m, 6:30 p.m. Library Theatre. Hoover Public Library. Visit hooverlibrary.org Oct. 26-27 – Once on this Island, Jr. Simmons Middle School Theater. 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door and are $3 for students $5 for adults. Children 4 and under are admitted free of charge. Contact Delle Kincaid dkincaid@hoover. k12.al.us.

Oct. 9 – Tween Scene: Goosebumps Gross Out. 6:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 10 – Tiny Tot Tales: Clean Up Time. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 10 – After Lunch Bunch: The Name Game. 1:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 11 – Second Thursday Book Discussion Group – State of Wonder, by Ann Patchett. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Oct. 11 – Storytime Live: F is Fantastic. 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 11 – PJ Storytime: Hansel & Gretel. 6:30 p.m. KidZone.

Oct. 27 – Hayride and Family Night. 5-8 p.m. Veterans Park.

Oct. 13 – Kidz Kitchen with Hansel and Gretel. 10:30 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 29 - SMS Band Concert and “Trunk or Treat.” Simmons Middle School Lower Gym. 7 p.m.

Oct. 15 – Together with Twos: Oink, Oink! 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone.

Library Events

Oct. 15 – Book Buzz, It Came from Outerspace. 6:30 p.m. KidZone.

For more, visit hooverlibrary. org Oct. 1 – Together with Twos: Sleep Tight. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 2 – Mother Goose: Monkey Around. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 2 - Early Birds: The Name Game, KidZone. Oct. 3 – Tiny Tot Tales: Pig, Pig, WOLF! 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 3 – After Lunch Bunch: Shhh! Quiet! 1:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 4 – First Thursday Book Discussion Group – Clara and Mr. Tiffany, by Susan Vreeland. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Oct. 4 – Storytime Live: E is Excellent. 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 4 – PJ Storytime: Cinderella. 6:30 p.m. KidZone. Hoover Public Library.

Oct. 16 – Early Birds: Doggie Days. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 16 – Family Night Pumpkin Painting Workshop. 6:30 p.m. Oct. 17 – Tiny Tot Tales: The Perfect Pet. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 17 – After Lunch Bunch: Dinosaur Daze. 1:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 18 – Storytime Live: G is Great. 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 18 – PJ Storytime: Sleeping Beauty. 6:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 21 – Ross Bridge Bagpiper Jim MacRae. 2:30 p.m. The Library Theatre, Plaza Stage, Hoover Public Library. Oct. 22 – Together with Twos: Creepy Crawlies. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 22 – This Just In! 6:30 p.m. KidZone.

Oct. 8 – Together with Twos. Duck Amuck! 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 23 – Mother Goose: Animals at Night. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 9 – Mother Goose: Rub a Dub Dub. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 23 – Early Birds: Leaves, Leaves. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 9 – Early Birds: Fun on the Farm. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 24 – Tiny Tot Tales: Alphabet Soup. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone.

Oct. 24 – After Lunch Bunch: Give a Hoot! 1:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 25 – Storytime Live: H is Haunted. 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 25 – PJ Storytime: Beauty and the Beast. 6:30 p.m. KidZone. Oct. 29 – Together with Twos: Monster Mash. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 29 – Full Moon Fright Fest (children). 6:30 p.m. Wear your costume to the library for an evening of haunted games, crafts and snacks. KidZone. Oct. 29 – Zombie Survival Workshop (teens). 6:30 p.m. Oct. 30 – Mother Goose: Boo! 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 30 – Early Birds: Monster Madness. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 31 – Tiny Tot Tales: Trick or Treat. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. KidZone. Oct. 31 – After Lunch Bunch: Happy Halloween! 1:30 p.m. KidZone.

Sports Sept. 29 – Lifeline Children’s Services R(un) for One 5K. Veteran’s Park. 7 a.m. registration, 8 a.m. fun run, race immediately after fun run. Visit lifelinechild.org/run-for-one. Oct. 6 – Southeast Cross Country Showdown. Veteran’s Park. Visit hoovertrack.com. Oct. 8 – Hoover Fire Department Golf Tournament. 11:30 a.m. Inverness Country Club. Visit hooverfiredepartment.org. Oct. 20 – Gulf South Conference Cross Country Championships. Veteran’s Park. Visit gulfsouthconference.org and click “Championships.” Oct. 21 – Race for Grace. 2 p.m., The Preserve Town Hall. Race and fun run to benefit Grace’s Kitchen. Visit graceskitchen.org. Oct. 25 – Hoover High School Cross Country Invitational. Veteran’s Park. Oct. 27 – Hannah Home Shelby Run Away from Domestic Violence 8K at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. 8 a.m. Visit runawayrace.com.

ARTISTS ON THE BLUFF CLASS SCHEDULES PAINTING AND MIXED MEDIA Rik Lazenby Limited to 12 students, $120 per month Adult: Tuesday & Thursday. 9 a.m-noon, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Ages 13-18: Wednesday 3:306:30 p.m. Contact Rik Lazenby to register, 281-5273 or visit lazenbystudio.com

$60 for two classses Sept. 6, 13. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Email info@coreynolenphoto. com CALLIGRAPHY Deb Warnat Visit debwarnat.com or call 243.0576

PASTELS Cynthia Cox $100 for five classes Call 803-761-3358

CLAY Nada Boner $35 per class Monday 9 a.m.-noon, 6-9 p.m. Tuesday 6-9 p.m. Visit nadaboner.com or call 541-3949

PHOTOGRAPHY Corey Nolen

WOODWORKING David Traylor

Huntboard or Candlestand Table Class $650.00 (materials included) Visit woodshopstudio.com or call 531-4751 ZENTANGLE Darla Williamson $35 per class Classes throughout fall Email darla@tangledstones. com, visit tangledstones.com or call Darla at 305-2082. FURNITURE/CABINET PAINTING Rik Lazenby La Craie Furniture Paint $125 per class Call 281-5273 to enroll

HooverSun.com

October 2012

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8/7/12 9:43 AM

Hoover Hayride & Family Night Saturday, October 27, 2012 • 5:00 – 8:00 pm

Veterans Park on Valleydale Parking at Spain Park High School with shuttles provided directly to the park.

Free to the public

Hayrides around the park Expansive exhibitor area with free candy and giveaways by Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce members Children are encouraged to dress in their favorite costume to gather “treats” NEW: magicians, balloon artists & face painting Variety of vendors on- site for food & beverage purchases

Information – 444-7500 or www.hooveralabama.gov