Hoover Sun March 2016 by Starnes Media

Sun Neighborly news & entertainment for Hoover

A neighborhood,

watching

Lake Cyrus residents boost security after fatal shooting in January By ERICA TECHO Montasir Osman has lived in Lake Cyrus for a year and a half, and until a few weeks ago his home security consisted of an alarm system and guns in a safe. However, after fellow Lake Cyrus resident Mike Gilotti was shot and killed outside his home in January, Osman added wireless security cameras to his system. He’s one of many Lake Cyrus residents who have taken individual precautions to boost security and keep their families safe since January. And the Lake Cyrus community as a whole also is taking action. The day after Gilotti’s death, Lake Cyrus residents met to discuss neighborhood-wide security measures such as gates, private security services and surveillance. Nancy Smith, spokeswoman for the Lake Cyrus Homeowners Association, said several options were presented to homeowners at the end of February. “What we’ve been doing in the last few months is gathering information,” Smith said. “It takes a while to get the information from all the vendors together.” Osman said he knows the community is talking about taking collective action,

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‘No other options’ School rezoning plan meets opposition as parents turn out in force to advocate keeping their neighborhoods intact Parents stand in line to address Superintendent Kathy Murphy at a Feb. 18 school rezoning community meeting. Photo by Erica Techo.

See LAKE CYRUS | page A31 By JON ANDERSON

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othing sends a mother into “mama bear” mode more than somebody messing with her children. So when Hoover school officials talk about rezoning kids from one school to another, conversations can get pretty

intense, pretty quickly. Some Hoover parents say they are fine with the proposal to send more than 2,700 children to different schools next year because of proposed new attendance zones. Some, including many in the Lake Cyrus community, are even happy with it because it would keep their children closer to home.

Sponsors ......................A4 City ................................ A6 Business ......................A12

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Chamber .....................A14 Medical Guide ...........A25 Sports ............................ B1

But others, such as many parents in Trace Crossings and The Preserve subdivisions, are adamantly against it, saying the proposal would force their children to go to a school either farther away or outside their community. Hoover schools Superintendent Kathy Murphy

School House ............. B12 Opinion ........................B18 Events ..........................B19

See SCHOOLS | page A30 Camp Guide ................ B21 Real Estate ................ B26 Calendar ..................... B27 facebook.com/thehooversun

Gone Fishing Hoover High brothers Joe and Anthony Wehby qualify for the Alabama Bass Fishing State championship this summer.

See page B10

Hams of Hoover Amateur radio operators find their niche with other enthusiasts in Bluff Park.

See page B16

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About Us Editor’s Note By Sydney Cromwell Spring is on its way. The days may not always feel like it, but I’m convinced that warm sunshine is headed our way. I’m only a little disappointed we didn’t get any snow this winter. While you wait for spring to bring its flowers and warmer days, I hope you’ll enjoy the stories inside this March issue. Read about Bluff Park’s men reviving the old school art of radio communication, and the Hoover High brothers who compete in bass fishing tournaments together. Also, I particularly recommend the stories about Ellington Franklin, who was recently honored for his service in WWII, and aerial silks,

consider taking your dog to Paws in the Garden or sign up for Color Me Rad and get doused with paint and colorful powder to spice up your run. Whatever story catches your eye, I hope this issue of the Hoover Sun gives you lots to enjoy.

my new favorite fitness trend. If the weather inspires you to shed the heavy coats and get outside,

BEHIND THE LENS By Frank Couch David Boger recalled receiving a phone call from his father Hank with some news that he was not expecting. David said when his dad told him he was getting married, he almost ran off the road. “It’s just not what you expect to hear from your 90-year-old father,” David said. Serving as the best man at the wedding, David’s smile is almost as big as Hank’s and his father’s bride, Mary Ann Hinkle, walks down the aisle at Danberry at Inverness senior living facility. Read more about the wedding in this month’s issue. Technical Data: NIKON D810, Lens (mm): 200, I SO: 4000, Aperture: 2.8, Shutter: 1/125. Got a question or idea for another Behind the Lens? Email me at fcouch@starnes publishing.com.

Sun Publisher: Managing Editor: Design Editor: Director of Photography: Video Editor: Page Designers: Community Reporters: Staff Writers: Sports Reporter: Associate Editor: Copy Editor:

Dan Starnes Sydney Cromwell Kristin Williams Frank Couch Cherie Olivier Cameron Tipton Emily VanderMey Ana Good Erica Techo Jon Anderson Emily Featherston Sam Chandler Kyle Parmley Lucy Ridolphi Louisa Jeffries

Advertising Manager: Matthew Allen Sales and Distribution: Warren Caldwell Don Harris Michelle Salem Haynes Brittany Joffrion Rhonda Smith James Plunkett

Contributing Writers: Kari Kampakis Rick Watson Leah Ingram Eagle Marienne Thomas Ogle Steve Irvine Rachel Burchfield Chris Megginson Jesse Chambers Grace Thornton

For advertising contact: dan@starnespublishing.com Contact Information: Hoover Sun PO Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 (205) 313-1780 dan@starnespublishing.com

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

Published by: Hoover Sun LLC 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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Support Our Community Partners 30 A Realty (A11) 9 Round Kickbox Fitness (A1) Addiction Recovery Program at UAB (A25) Advanced Turf Care (A6) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (A26) Alabama Outdoors (A12) Alabama Power (B15) Alabama Vein Center (A26) Aldridge Gardens (B14, B25) Alys Stephens Center, Art Play (B17) Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center (A10) ARC Realty (B21) Backyard Creations (A19) Baptist Health Center Hoover (A10, A27, B5, B17) Becky Hicks, Remax Southern Homes (B13) Birmingham Children’s Theatre (B24) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (B26) Cabinet Cures of Birmingham (B13) California Closets (B19) Cardiovascular Associates of the Southeast (A27) Carpet Warehouse Galleria (A7) Central Alabama Cadillac Dealers (A14) Children’s of Alabama (A5, A28) Construx (B8) Cottontails Village (A21) Dawson Family of Faith (A13) Decorating Dens Interiors (A30) Diamond Golf Cars (A3) Encore Rehabilitation (B19) ERA King Real Estate Homewood (B27) EZ Roof & EZ Restoration (B11) Geico Insurance (B3) Homewood Carpet & Flooring (B9) Hoover Florist (A19) Hoover Public Library (B14) Hutchinson Automotive (B8) Issis & Sons / O Advertising (A17) JamJev Gymnastics (A21) Jersey Mike’s Subs (A2) Kasey Davis Dentistry (A15) LAH Real Estate - Hoover Office (B26) Liberty Park (B1) Mason Music Studios (B24) Med-I-Fit Enterprises 1 LLC (A28) Michelson Laser Vision, Inc. (A29) Mohawk Floorz c/o O Advertising (A32) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (B27) Nova Essence MediSpa (A29) Outdoor Living Areas (A5) Over the Mountain Glass (A20) Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics (B9) Patti Schreiner, Re/MAX Southern Homes (A29) Pediatric Smiles (B26) Planet Fitness (B3) Pure Dermatology & Aesthetics (B28) RealtySouth Marketing (B18) Red Mountain Theatre Company (B22) Sarver Orthodontics (A20) Sentry Heating & Air (A3) Sew Sheri Designs (A6) South Trace Pediatrics (A8) Southlake Orthopaedics (A12) Specialized Renovations (B7) Starling Concrete Resurfacing (B12) Sunrise Lawn Service LLC (A9) Sweetspire Gardens (A8) The Altamont School (B25) The Maids (A1) Therapy South Hoover (A18) Tom Williams BMW (B5) Tracey Mercer, Optometrist (B12) Vulcan Termite & Pest Control (A21) Water Drainage Solutions (A13) Weigh To Wellness (A16) Whale of a Sale (B27) Wrapsody (B7) YMCA of Greater Birmingham (B23)

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City Mayor’s Minute By Gary Ivey

It is an honor to be your mayor and to live in a great city that I am happy to call home. We’ve had a very cold winter but hopefully warmer weather is here, and we have many exciting events on the horizon for you. Many people like to do spring cleaning in March, so it’s a great time to clean out your garage. Our annual Household Hazardous Waste Day will be held at the Hoover Met on Saturday, April 23, from 8 a.m.-noon. This event is for Hoover residents only so please have your driver’s license or proof of residency with you. We will be collecting paint, prescription medications, electronics, fertilizers, pesticides and Gary Ivey batteries as well as properly disposing of flags. Please visit our website for a complete list of items. Aldridge Gardens, along with the Shelby Humane Society, will be hosting PAWS in the Gardens for our four legged friends and their families. This event will be March 19 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and admission is $10 per dog. This will be a fun event that you and your pet don’t want to miss! For additional details visit Aldridgegardens.com or call 682-8019 to speak with someone on their staff. We have many great events planned for 2016 for your families, so be sure to visit our website for a complete list at hooveralabama.gov or call 444-7500. We want to exceed your expectations in every way with the quality of services we offer. Please contact our office if we can be of assistance to you. Sincerely,

Signs encouraging voters to support Sunday alcohol sales have been posted in Shelby County. An official with the Alabama Citizens Action Program, which opposes Sunday sales, said opponents don’t have enough resources to produce signs. Photo by Frank Couch.

Shelby County voters to decide Sunday alcohol in primary vote By ERICA TECHO The Beverage Place has been closed every Sunday since Joe and J.J. Rueschenberg bought the package store in Inverness Plaza 18 years ago, but after March 1, that could change. On March 1, Shelby County voters will be able to vote for or against Sunday alcohol sales on their primary election ballot. “I think it [Sunday sales] will definitely have a moderate impact if not a large one, and if not for us, even

for the restaurants that are not allowed to sell on Sundays now,” said Joe Rueschenberg, who also owns The Pink Package Store on U.S. 280. When Shelby County legislators chose to place Sunday alcohol sales on the primary ballot, they were responding to ongoing requests from cities that saw the lack of sales as a detriment, state Rep. Mike Hill, R-Columbiana, said. “As long as I’ve been there, the cities and the county have just beaten the legislative delegation to death to try and get Sunday sales because they realized they’re

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J.J. and Joe Rueschenberg, owners of The Beverage Place and Pink Package Store. Joe said his businesses plan to open on Sundays if the law passes. Photo by Frank Couch.

losing some revenue they were missing,” Hill said. Joe Godfrey, executive director of the Alabama Citizens Action Program, said putting Sunday sales on the ballot is another step in the easement of alcohol sale restrictions. “What’s happening is you’re seeing the consistent removal of all the restrictions on alcohol, which by the way is a mind-altering and addictive drug,” Godfrey said. “So the more you remove the restrictions, the more society pays for the alcohol-related problems.” Restaurants in Shelby County were able to obtain a club license to sell alcohol on Sunday until around six years ago when legislation took away club licenses. Restaurants that already had club licenses were grandfathered in, but Hill said issues with new businesses started arising. “That seemed like a pretty good compromise in the beginning, and then we realized we weren’t getting any new restaurants in Shelby County … because now, they not only had to compete with Jefferson County for Sunday sales, but they no longer could have a club license,” Hill said. This competition from within the county and across county lines pushed legislators to pursue Sunday sales. Wade Crawford, director of marketing for Quality Restaurant Concepts, said for restaurants with club licenses, this law would only simplify Sunday sales by eliminating the need for club memberships or special records. The Applebee’s in Chelsea, which is owned by Quality Restaurant Concepts, has had a club license since it opened. Crawford said even though they can sell alcohol on Sundays, conservative values in the county and throughout the Southeast mean not many people purchase it. “We don’t do a whole lot of alcohol sales even if we have it,” he said. “We’re just very conservative down here.” Sunday sales would likely have a greater impact for grocery and package stores, Crawford said. At his two stores, Rueschenberg said people who are not from Shelby County frequently stop by on Sundays. “They’re pulling on the door and they’re not really from around here, and they don’t understand why we’re not open on Sunday,” he said. Beer and wine distributors from Shelby County would benefit from another day to sell, and they would see more sales from people passing through town, Rueschenberg said. A lot of people travel on Sundays, and he believes the county could benefit from their business. “I think that it would be beneficial for any tourism that is within the community,” he said.

The delegation has pretty much said that if it doesn’t pass, we’re not coming back next year with it. One of these days, another delegation may do it, but this is one shot.

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REP. MIKE HILL, R-COLUMBIANA

“It may help conventions that they may want to hold at the Pelham Civic Center or wherever.” Godfrey said he does not see Sunday sales as an economic boost. Arguments that say alcohol sales will improve the economy are just a ruse, Godfrey said. He believes alcohol-related issues could actually increase and end up costing the county more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a study in January on the cost of excessive drinking. That cost was $249 billion for the United States in 2010 and included the cost of productivity loss, early mortality, health care costs, crime and car crashes. “We’re having huge problems, and those figures with the CDC include lost time at work, mortality issues, incarceration and trial situations,” Godfrey said. “All these different things are included in that cost, and that’s probably a conservative cost. … Oftentimes it’s people who don’t drink who have to pay the price.” Quality Restaurant Concepts has opened restaurants in dry and wet areas, and their decisions related to alcohol typically reflect the community where they are moving, Crawford said. But for people who want to drink or purchase alcohol on Sunday, Crawford said they will just cross county lines. “I think it’s a ‘duh,’” Crawford said. “It’s just something we need to be doing. People are obviously leaving Shelby County on Sundays if they want to drink, and the county has been missing on those Sunday alcohol taxes for forever.” The fate of Sunday sales is now up to Shelby County voters, Hill said, and if people vote “no,” the delegation will let that stand. “The delegation has pretty much said that if it doesn’t pass, we’re not coming back next year with it,” Hill said. “One of these days, another delegation may do it, but this is one shot.”

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Hoover council readies for vote on rezoning 273 acres to prevent apartments By JON ANDERSON The Hoover City Council plans to vote on March 7 on its controversial plan to rezone 273 acres along Interstate 459 from apartment use to mostly commercial use, against the property owners’ wishes. Some Hoover residents say they’re glad the city is attempting to block U.S. Steel from putting more than 800 apartments on the property, which stretches along the south side of I-459 between Preserve Parkway and Chapel Lane. But U.S. Steel, which owns at least half of the 273 acres, and other property owners voiced strong opposition to the rezoning, claiming the city is attempting to usurp their rights as property owners. Hoover planning consultant Bob House said the land has been zoned for apartments since 1984, but land use patterns have changed over the years and the property is no longer best suited for apartments. With Alabama 150 virtually saturated with businesses, there is little vacant land along that major highway for commercial development, House said. The most recent comprehensive plan done by the city in 2003 indicated the property in question would be best for a mix of commercial uses, House said. The city also is recommending that about 20 acres next to the Paradise Acres community be rezoned for single-family residential use. Jammie Cowden, an attorney for U.S. Steel, said his company has been a significant development player in Hoover for many years and a good corporate citizen, and he was shocked when company officials received a legal notice indicating the city wanted to rezone its property. U.S. Steel for about six months has been trying

The city of Hoover is seeking to rezone about 273 acres along Interstate 459 between Preserve Parkway and Chapel Lane to keep it from being developed into apartments. Map provided by city of Hoover.

to get 139 acres there subdivided to make way for 820 apartments, but the Hoover Planning and Zoning Commission twice has rejected the company’s request, citing incomplete applications. Cowden said during all the talks about U.S. Steel’s request, not once did city officials mention the possibility of rezoning that land. “It is beyond belief that the city would undertake a rezoning of this magnitude and this importance without even so much as a phone call,” Cowden said. Meade Whitaker spoke on behalf of his late father’s trust, which owns part of the property in question, and said he and his family also were

shocked at the city’s move. “It is virtually without precedent to rezone property, particularly of a magnitude like this, to rezone property without the consent of property owners,” Whitaker said. His family has a contract to sell its property, and any effort by the city to rezone the land will interfere with that contract, he said. The city’s arguments for rezoning the property are disingenuous, Whitaker believes. The owners of the Patton Creek shopping center at one time had a contract to buy land from the Whitaker family for expansion of the shopping center, Whitaker said. His family

requested to rezone its property for such a purpose, and the city refused to rezone the land for commercial use then, he said. Norman Orr, an attorney for the Birmingham Association of Realtors, said that organization strongly opposes the rezoning of property without consent of property owners. Such a move would stymie development in the city of Hoover and the metro area as a whole, Orr said. “Business needs stability from its government,” Orr said. “They need to be able to see how government regulations will impact a project.” Riverchase resident Arnold Singer said the impassioned pleas from the property owners are not the law of the land. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled more than 80 years ago that cities have a right to rezone property, and changing the zoning for 273 acres is not considered “spot zoning,” where a zoning action is applied to a specific property within a larger tract and is not consistent with the city’s master plan or zoning restrictions. “Their arguments, as passionate as they are, will not hold water the higher up it goes in the judicial system,” Singer said. Andrew Fort, a resident in the new Magnolia Grove subdivision just across I-459, said he has talked to dozens of residents in his neighborhood, Lake Crest, The Preserve and Birchtree, and not one of them wants to see apartments on this property. They believe apartments there would hurt other property values, strain the school system and create traffic problems, he said. Hoover Councilman John Lyda said private property owners have to look out for their interests, but city officials must look out for the city as a whole.

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A tent covers the thirdfloor atrium in Hoover City Hall to prevent the spread of dust while it is being renovated. The estimated cost of the total Hoover City Hall project, of which the redundant data center is the most costly item, is $4 million. Photos by Marienne Thomas Ogle.

Security at City Hall being updated during partial renovation By MARIENNE THOMAS OGLE Hoover City Hall is undergoing a partial renovation that not only includes updating of security and fire alarm systems and some cosmetic upgrades, but installation of equipment to ensure the continuity of the community’s technological services in case of an unexpected emergency. Melinda Lopez, director of the information management and reporting department and leader of the city employee team that helped develop the plan, said the primary focus of the work is on the second floor and is two-fold. “We’re installing a diesel generator there that will be able to operate the entire city hall if there is a power outage,” Lopez said.”In addition, there will be a disaster recovery site for data should something happen to the public safety center.” According to Lopez, the public safety center, located on Valleydale Road, is currently “the meat” of the city’s live data activity and supports email and phone communication. Electronic records and files for revenue, building services, fire, police, fleet and mapping data are also supported there. “So the disaster recovery site or redundant data center will give us a fallback for data if the public safety center was affected by a tornado or the like, and the new generator that will let city hall continue to run,” she said. The estimated cost of the total Hoover City Hall project, of which the redundant data center is the most costly item, is $4 million. To some extent, it is impacting each of the building’s four floors. Overall completion date is mid- to late summer. Other changes to the second floor include the construction of new conference and training rooms with state-of-the-art audio and visual technology for collaboration and video conferencing capabilities, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible public restrooms, and storage units. The building’s second floor occupants—about 20 employees of the finance, human resources, purchasing, and information management and reporting departments—have “found nooks and crannies” in the public safety center as their temporary homes while the work goes on, Lopez said. The five members of the third floor city clerk’s office staff are working from the building’s

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Construction workers make progress on the Hoover City Hall renovation, which affects all four floors, primarily with a new redundant data center.

media and conference room while upgrades are made in their area, Lopez said. “That work, including paint, millwork and carpet, is a timing priority because they need to be back in place in time for the Aug. 23 election,” she said. Lopez said the city considered renting space or temporary trailers for displaced employees. “But it was cheaper to fit everyone in our existing facilities and easier for them to connect to our network,” she said. Other changes include the addition of a small first floor data room to facilitate connection to the redundant data center, and renovation of the second and fourth floors elevator and lobby areas. Mike Ogles, director of the city technology department, said the project, particularly the equipment additions, will greatly benefit Hoover City employees and citizens. “This will ensure that technical services remain available without interruption and ensure functionality in case something happens at either site on the technical side,” Ogles said.”There is something good here for everyone because there are so many dependencies on technology in today’s world and everyday living.”

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Mayor seeks to add 10 officers to combat uptick in crime Ivey requests $600K from City Council to pay for new patrol positions By JON ANDERSON An uptick in violent crime is prompting Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey to ask the City Council for about $600,000 this year to pay for 10 new patrol officers for the Hoover Police Department. Ivey said Hoover’s crime rate was down in 2015, but there seems to have been a recent surge in crime since January, not just in Hoover, but across the metro area, state and country. The Jan. 5 fatal shooting of a U.S. military veteran outside his home in the Lake Cyrus community shook the city of Hoover, Ivey said. “The killing we had at Lake Cyrus impacted the community more so because the city is not used to that,” Ivey said. “That’s not what we’re used to hearing about.” Hoover police Chief Nick Derzis reportedly told a Birmingham TV station that he could use 20 more patrol officers, but 10 would help do the job. Bluff Park resident Dan Fulton said at a February City Council meeting that if the Police Department needs 20 more patrol officers, the city should provide them immediately. “We can’t afford to not have safety and security in Hoover,” Fulton said. He said he doesn’t care how fancy the houses in Hoover are, how fancy the new $70 million Sportsplex will be or how fancy the Riverchase Galleria is. “If this city is not safe and secure, people are not going to come here and shop, and they’re not going to come here to live.”

Ivey said he has always been a strong proponent of public safety and that, in this case, Fulton may be right. “In this day and age, I don’t know that there are ever enough (police officers),” Ivey said. There are now about 160 sworn police officers in the Hoover Police Department, and Ivey said 10 more patrol officers is something the city can afford. “It’s one of those things that you can’t afford not to do,” he said. He expects to present a mid-year budget amendment to the City Council by the end of March, he said. If approved by the council, the money would come from the city’s general fund, he said. Ivey said he knows many residents are looking for ways to secure their homes and he recommends motion detectors on floodlights as an inexpensive crime deterrent. “If there is anything that people don’t like that are bad people, it’s lights,” he said. In other business in February, the Hoover City Council approved a resolution declaring its intent to issue warrants to pay for the $70 million Sportsplex the city plans to build next to Hoover Metropolitan Stadium and authorizing the use of future borrowed money to reimburse capital expenses already being made for the project. “We’re trying to get the project moving forward,” Hoover Finance Director Robert Yeager said. The council also named Waldrep, Stewart & Kendrick LLC as the legal firm to handle the issuance of the warrants.

Hoover patrol officers sit through a roll call. Photo courtesy of Ellen Williams/Hoover Police Department.

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March 2016 • A11

Hoover resident Bill Veitch sworn in as Bessemer Division district attorney

Alabama Supreme Court Justice Mike Bolin poses for a photo with Bill Veitch, his wife Jill Ganus Veitch and son Jack Veitch at a ceremony in which Bolin swore Veitch in to become the new district attorney for the Bessemer Division of Jefferson County on Wednesday, Jan. 27. Photo courtesy of Bill Veitch.

By JON ANDERSON Hoover resident Bill Veitch recently was sworn in as the new district attorney for the Bessemer Division of Jefferson County following an appointment made by Gov. Robert Bentley. Veitch is filling the shoes of Arthur Green, who retired effective Jan. 26 after serving three six-year terms in office. Veitch has been chief assistant district attorney in the Bessemer Division for 14 years and now will fill out the remainder of Green’s term. He is running for election to the job this year as a Republican. Jennifer Ardis, a spokeswoman for the governor, said Veitch is qualified for the district attorney job and the governor appreciates his willingness to serve. “He brings experience to the position,” Ardis said. “The governor is confident he will serve the citizens well in his new position.” Veitch was sworn in Jan. 27 by Alabama Supreme Court Justice Mike Bolin. Veitch first came to the district attorney’s office in the Bessemer Division in 1999 and within two years was promoted to chief assistant district attorney. Before that, he managed a private law practice for 20 years and served as a Birmingham police officer while he pursued his legal education, according to his campaign website. Veitch is a lifelong resident of the Bessemer Division. He was president of his 1969 graduating class from McAdory High School and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a law degree from the

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He brings experience to the position. The governor is confident he will serve the citizens well in his new position.

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JENNIFER ARDIS

Birmingham School of Law. He has served for 14 years as the vice president of the Bessemer Children’s Advocacy Center, now known as The Clay House, which is a child-focused intervention and treatment program for child abuse victims. Veitch also served 10 years on the Hoover school board, served as chairman of the Hoover Personnel Board and was on the board of directors of the Bessemer YMCA. He is a member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in Bessemer and lives in Hoover with his wife, Jill Ganus Veitch. His wife is a deputy district attorney for Tuscaloosa County and formerly served as a served as a Jefferson County district judge from 2006 to 2013 and as an assistant district attorney for the Bessemer Division from 1993 to 2006, and 2013 to January 2015. Veitch has two adult children, one son in the Hoover school system and three grandchildren.

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March 2016 • A13

Now Open iFit Fueled by Coach Davis is now open at 1581 Montgomery Highway, Suite 115. 520-6763, ifitbycoachdavis.com

Cycle Gear, a retail chain selling motorcycle parts along with related clothing and accessories, is now open at 1661 Montgomery Highway. 438-7819, cyclegear.com

Ryan Goolsby has opened a State Farm Insurance agency at 1960 Braddock Drive, Suite 104. 879-5674

Pretty Hair Bham is now open at 3075 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite P. The boutique offers sew-in hair extensions, hair closures, clip-in extensions and more. 739-2424, prettyhairbham.com

Hirings and Promotions Realtors Eddie Bratton and Steve and Anna Parker have joined Keller Williams Hoover, 1 Chase Corporate Drive, Suite 150. 383-5819, kellerwilliamshoover.com

“When it rains, we drain!”

Scott Lazore has been named branch manager and vice president of IberiaBank, 2765 John Hawkins Parkway, following the retirement of Beverly Meadors. 803-5940, iberiabank.com 10

Anniversaries The Whole Scoop Ice Cream Shop, 3421 South Shades Crest Road, Suite 121, celebrated its fifth anniversary in February. 444-8000, thewholescoopicecream.com 11

Coming Soon Bluff Park Ice Cream Shoppe will open soon at 815 Shades Crest Road, in the shopping center anchored by Mr. P’s Deli. facebook.com/BluffParkIceCreamShoppe

Northcutt Dental will be opening soon in the former Schaeffer Eye Center location at 1598 Montgomery Highway. This will be the practice’s sixth location and second in the Birmingham area. northcuttdental.com

Relocations and Renovations Perrigo Dental Care, 2038 Patton Chapel Road, launched a renovation project on January 4 that includes an expansion from six to 11 operatories. It also includes a renovation to the upper and lower levels of the practice. 822-7822, myhooverdentist.com

News and Accomplishments 8

Drive, has changed its name to Customs Café to better reflect their food and menu. The eatery offers cuisine each month from a different country around the world. 987-0176, hooverlibrary.org/cafe

Vision Gymnastics, 3314 Old Columbiana Road, celebrated its fourth anniversary in March. 979-7969, visiongymnastics.com 12

Indian Springs Pediatric Dentistry, 6496 Quail Run Drive, celebrated its second anniversary in February. 739-7773, indianspringskidsdentistry.com 13

The Pink Tulip, 180 Main St., Suite 212, celebrated its second anniversary in February. 560-0355, thepinktu.com 14

Fi-Plan Partners, 5825 Feldspar Way, celebrated its 11th anniversary in February. 989-3498, fiplanpartners.com 15

Closings 16

Earth Fare, 3230 Galleria Circle, has closed.

Coffee-ol-ogy Café, located inside the Hoover Public Library, 200 Municipal

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A14 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Chamber Preview of

MARCH Luncheon

New president eyes tech to boost membership By LAUREN TOBIN

The Birmingham Barons Baseball Club will sponsor the March luncheon of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce. Jim Searcy, executive director of the Economic Development Searcy Association of Alabama, will speak. Searcy has spent over 20 years in economic development in Alabama, including through the Birmingham Business Alliance, the Birmingham Metropolitan Development Board and at the Alabama Development Office, now the Alabama Department of Commerce. To attend the March 17 luncheon, please make reservations no later than Monday, March 14, by calling 988-5672, or emailing the Chamber office at lisa@ hooverchamber.org. Networking begins at 11:15 a.m., with the meeting starting at noon. Registration is $20, payable at the door, or $25 for non-members and those who show up without reservations. Payment can be made by cash, check or major credit cards.

This is the year for technology in the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce, new chamber President Chris Schmidt said. The chamber plans to increase its use of technology and social media sites so businesses are able to get the most updated information about each other and the city’s needs, said Schmidt, a vice president at Daniel Corp. who became the chamber’s president Jan. 21. “The chamber’s mission is to help connect businesses in the area,” Schmidt said. “We want to have ways for businesses to more easily communicate with one another by investing in technology and working more with social media.” The use of technology, he said, is part of a bigger plan: to grow membership. “The biggest thing we want to do is grow membership and make it feel as if belonging to the chamber has benefits and value, rather than it just ‘being something to do,’” he said. “Any little bit we can give back to the community bodes well for the chamber at large.” Working with businesses to provide more opportunities to residents is what the chamber is about, Schmidt said. The chamber also hosts fundraising events to raise money for scholarships. “We promote programs already in place, but we also think of other things like the job fair that kicked off last year,” he said.

Chris Schmidt of Daniel Corp. speaks to the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce as its new president. Photo courtesy of Rhonda Pyatt/Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Fundraisers are a dual purpose because it’s scholarships and networking.” The scholarships are designed to include numerous types of students, Schmidt said. “You may not have a 4.0 GPA, but you may show us there’s something special about you and you need help, and we provide that,” he said. Schmidt said board members are talking

about ways to expand the scholarships and brainstorming ideas such as making them available for trade schools in addition to four-year universities. Schmidt was the chamber’s Member of the Year, while Megan Randolph of Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors was honored as Board Member of the Year and Lynn Ray of BTI was chosen Ambassador of the Year.

THIS SPRING, BREAK FROM THE HERD 20 16 ES C A L A D E

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March 2016 • A15

Chamber honors top public safety workers By JON ANDERSON The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce in February celebrated the city’s top public safety workers of 2015. The business community gathered at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham — The Wynfrey Hotel to honor police and fire standouts:

POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Cyle Cutcliff was named Police Officer of the Year for his bravery in assisting with a Dec. 18 fire call. Shortly after 1 a.m. on Dec. 18, Cutcliff was dispatched as a secondary unit to a fire at an apartment complex in Riverchase. He was the first to arrive and immediately notified dispatch that the 700 building at Garden Brook Trail was fully Cutcliff involved with fire and flames visible from the roof, police Chief Nick Derzis said. With little regard for his own safety, Cutcliff went into a smoke-engulfed corridor and began to bang on doors to wake residents and evacuate the building, Derzis said. Cutcliff kicked in the door to an apartment directly below the burning apartment and woke an elderly woman who had not heard the banging, Derzis said. “His actions surely saved her from injury or possible death from smoke inhalation,” Derzis said. Cutcliff, 44, of Riverchase came to work for Hoover as a detention officer in 1992. In 1995, he was hired as a patrol officer and continues in that role now. Other finalists for 2015 Hoover Police Officer

of the Year were Officer Kyle Brohl and Sgt. Jim Thornton.

TELECOMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR

David Sibley on Oct. 3 received a frantic call from a man whose wife was in labor with contractions just three minutes apart, Derzis said. Sibley dispatched paramedics and began telling the man what to do, Derzis said. Within three minutes and prior to the medics’ arrival, the baby was delivered at the caller’s home, but the father reported the Sibley umbilical cord was wrapped around the baby’s neck, Derzis said. Sibley calmly and quickly instructed the man how to remove the cord from around the baby’s neck and to clean the baby’s nose and mouth to ensure the baby could breathe, Derzis said. Paramedics arrived quickly, and the baby and mother were taken to the hospital with no complications, Derzis said. “If not for the experience and quick actions of telecommunicator Sibley, this joyous occasion might have ended up different,” Derzis said. Sibley, who lives in Irondale, has been in public safety since 1982, including many years as a paramedic for an ambulance company and six years as a telecommunicator for Hoover.

DETENTION OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Sr. Cpl. Tyrone McCall on Feb. 25 of 2015 was routinely checking inmates’ mail for illicit material or contraband and discovered a book with a minor discrepancy around its spine, Derzis said. He found a foil-wrapped package of marijuana in the spine of the book and then listened to the

inmate’s phone calls and found a conversation that incriminated the inmate and an outside party in promoting prison contraband, Derzis said. “This single act of diligence and attention to detail prevented a controlled substance McCall from entering the jail, which otherwise could have been the catalyst for an array of problems inside the jail facility,” the chief said. McCall, 44, of Hoover spent four years as a corrections officer for Birmingham before joining Hoover as a detention officer 12 years ago. He was promoted to corporal in 2014 and senior corporal this past fall.

FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

Ricky Linn was chosen Firefighter of the Year because of 22 years of dedicated service, fire Chief Chuck Wingate said. He joined Hoover in December 1993 after a 20-year career with Birmingham. He was promoted to apparatus operator in 2006, fire inspector in 2007 and senior fire inspector in March 2015. He has been Linn involved in many projects beyond normal duty, Wingate said. He helped start the technical rescue team and has trained firefighters from Hoover and other departments through the Alabama Fire College. Linn has a special talent for relating the

importance of fire prevention, especially to children, Wingate said. Linn also each year assists in preparation for Camp Conquest, a summer camp in Alexander City for children with burn injuries. He handles many behind-the-scene duties, such as coordinating the Honor Guard and helping coworkers with difficult projects. “He is always willing to help his fellow man,” Wingate said. “He’s a go-to guy.” Linn, 63, is a former member of the Hoover City Council. He lives in Bluff Park.

PARAMEDIC OF THE YEAR

Capt. Tim Lawson was selected Paramedic of the Year. As a member of the joint police and fire special response team and tactical medic program, he has helped procure equipment and regular training for that group, Wingate said. Recently, Lawson worked with police to standardize bleeding control equipment, namely tourniquets, so all procedures and Lawson equipment for the two departments are uniform and easier to deploy in a tactical or hazardous situation, Wingate said. “This will save valuable time and effort in making split-second decisions by our police officers and EMS personnel,” the chief said. Lawson also worked with the technical rescue team and helped develop and implement training for the rapid intervention team. Lawson, 39, lives in Bluff Park. He joined Hoover in March 1999 after working for the Rocky Ridge Fire District. He was promoted to lieutenant in February 2010 and captain in January of this year.

A16 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Indoor trampoline park to open in former Staples location Skyzone is planning a Hoover location, which will look similar on the inside to this location in Kennesaw, Georgia. Photo courtesy of David Van Vurst.

The Abbey at Wisteria Crest apartment complex has been purchased and renamed Elevation Hoover, and is slated for renovation. Photo by Emily Featherston.

2 apartment complexes bought, to be renovated By EMILY FEATHERSTON Two Hoover apartment complexes will be getting a facelift after being acquired by Elmington Capital Group. The Abbey at Wisteria Crest and the Cliffs at Rocky Ridge were both purchased as part of a $66 million transaction that also includes two other properties in the Birmingham area. The firm currently owns Emerald Pointe in Hoover, as well as One Highland Place in Five Points. The acquisition brings the firm’s total unit portfolio to 1,074, plus its commercial space. The Abbey at Wisteria Crest has already seen a change with the firm’s rebranding efforts, and is now called “Elevation Hoover.” Extensive renovations, including interior upgrades, enhanced curb appeal, additional amenities and clubhouse improvements are planned for all of the acquired complexes.

Some renovations already are underway, but the entirety of the renovations are scheduled to be completed over the next three years. In addition to the two properties in Hoover, the firm acquired The Abbey at Lakeshore and The Abbey at Vestavia Falls, renamed “Elevation Homewood” and “Elevation Vestavia Hills,” respectively. “We look forward to providing high-quality residences at an affordable price in communities with top-notch school systems and convenient access to retail and jobs,” said Hunter Nelson, Elmington’s senior vice president for acquisitions. Elmington Property Management, which like the capital group is located in Nashville, will manage the properties. For more information about Elmington and its Birmingham portfolio, visit elmingtoncapital. com.

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE When David Van Vurst and his family visited Hoover for his daughter’s soccer tournament, he realized it would be a perfect location to open his second Skyzone franchise. Van Vurst and his wife have owned the Kennesaw, Georgia location for three years and are excited to expand to Alabama. “The south side of Birmingham is where we were looking, and it just so happened the Staples merger came together and we ended up with that location,” he said. The Hoover Skyzone location will be 25,000 square feet, substantially larger than other trampoline arenas in the Birmingham area. They also focus on safety, and have separated areas for different ages. “We have general basic rules we follow,” Van Vurst said. “We have a lot of size separation.

It’s never a free for all at our parks.” In addition to open jump time, Skyzone will feature birthday party packages, exercise programs such as Skyfitness and Skyrobics, toddler time, jumpapalooza and sky camp. The entire facility can also be rented for small or large groups. Skyzone also helps give back to the community, and is available for hosting fundraisers. Skyzone features contests such as Dodgeball championships, in which the winner goes to the national tournament in Las Vegas, and Skyslam dunk contests. The company first opened in 2004 and has since opened over 100 parks across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and Saudi Arabia. Van Vurst expects the park to open in late August or early September. For information, visit skyzone.com.

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • A17

A month of giving

Franchisee aims to raise $100K for cancer research at Children’s of Alabama

By SYDNEY CROMWELL Most people are fortunate never to know the difficulties of being a child in an extended hospital stay. But Patrick Decker knows the feeling well – before he was even in school, a blood disorder kept him in a hospital for a year. Decker is now the owner of several Jersey Mike’s franchise locations in Hoover, Mountain Brook, Trussville, Opelika and a Vestavia store that opened in February. Each March, Jersey Mike’s franchisees across the country choose a local charity to support for the annual Month of Giving. Decker has participated for several years, giving to charities such as the Exceptional Foundation, the Lakeshore Foundation, Make-A-Wish and the Bell Center. This year, however, Decker felt it was time to choose a larger cause that’s close to his heart: pediatric cancer research at Children’s of Alabama. “I’ve had my eyes on Children’s [of Alabama] for a long time,” Decker said. His stores also donated in December to Children’s Sugarplum Shop for families in the hospital on Christmas. “This is the first year we had enough stores that we felt like we could make an impact,” said Katie Crago, Jersey Mike’s special events coordinator. Representatives at Children’s were just as excited to make the new partnership. Emily Hornak, the director of cause marketing at Children’s, had tried unsuccessfully to get in touch with Decker prior to the Sugarplum Shop. Then she received an email from him asking to partner for the project. “I couldn’t have been more excited,” Hornak said.

Patrick Decker discusses charity choice:

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Patrick Decker, Katie Crago, Emily Hornak and Adam Kelley pose inside one of the Jersey Mike’s locations that will be raising money this month for Children’s of Alabama. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

“I think she was doing cartwheels in the office,” agreed Children’s Manager of Communications Adam Kelley. Decker’s Jersey Mike’s locations had the qualities that Children’s was looking for in a fundraising partner: a desire to give back to the community and strong local ties along with a large economic footprint in Birmingham. “Children’s of Alabama has many opportunities to make an impact,” Hornak said. “We find that when we partner with a company like Jersey Mike’s, that we get so much more ability to connect with the community not just through fundraising, but through the awareness.”

Decker’s goal is to raise $100,000 throughout March for pediatric cancer research across his five stores. For those looking to participate, there will be several ways to give back. Diners at Jersey Mike’s can give donations up to $3 at the register and receive a $1 off coupon in exchange, and 25 percent of proceeds from March catering orders will also be donated. Crago said Jersey Mike’s will be selling T-shirts with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Children’s, and an online auction, including trips and entertainment packages. This will be capped off by the Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 30, when 100

percent of sales will go to Children’s. “We want the people who care about Children’s to invest in our business partners, and this is an opportunity for them to go support someone who is supporting us,” Hornak said. Decker is taking a “no stone unturned” approach to getting the word out about the Month of Giving. Along with talking to regular and college newspapers and radio stations, Decker said he will also be mailing about 400,000 coupons out to area homes. The coupons will include special offers for those who bring them in and donate. Hornak said the donations will go

to research at Children’s and “soft services” for children being treated for cancer: social workers, child life specialists, art and music therapy and other “programs that we as a hospital provide because it is important to the care of the patient and to the whole family.” “We’re really looking forward to working and making a statement to the community that Jersey Mike’s and Children’s are working together to make as much funds and awareness as we can,” Hornak said. $100,000 is a big goal, but Decker is confident that his team will reach it. That’s due in part to the employees who are “very excited” to be supporting Children’s, and partly due to the customers at Jersey Mike’s. “Jersey Mike’s is built off of regulars,” Decker said. “Seventy-five percent of our customers are people who eat here every other day. We know their names, our employees know what sandwich they want before they get out of the car. It’s just that type of family kind of push that we know they’re going to want to get involved. “We know they want to do something like this, and that’s why they’ll come and eat at Jersey Mike’s to raise money,” he continued. For more about the Month of Giving and how to get involved, visit onesubatatime.org.

A18 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

HIGHEST

HONOR Ellington Franklin stands on a street in Marseille, France, during his service in the Army Air Corps in World War II. Photo courtesy of Donald Franklin.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL When Japanese planes dropped bombs on Pearl Harbor, Ellington Franklin knew the odds were good that he would be drafted. So he kissed his young wife, Doris, said goodbye and joined his brother-in-law in enlisting in the Army Air Corps. “Airplanes sounded a lot better than the infantry,” said his son, Donald Franklin, recalling the stories his father — a longtime Hoover resident — told him. “Any way you slice it, it was better than sleeping in the mud and freezing to death in the infantry.” On Jan. 29, the government of France honored Ellington and six other World War II veterans from Alabama and Mississippi as Knights of the Legion of Honor, one of the highest honors given in recognition of service to the people of France. Ellington, who has lived in Hoover with Doris for 35 years, earned the distinction through his service as a radio operator in the 81st Troop Carrier Squadron. The consul general of France based in Atlanta was the one to present Franklin and the six other veterans their award at Montgomery’s city hall.

France bestows Hoover World War II veteran the Knights of the Legion of Honor award Ellington Franklin during the Jan. 29 ceremony. Photo courtesy of Heather Kircher.

Others receiving the Knight of the Legion of Honor distinction were from Homewood, Huntsville, Sheffield, Madison, Mississippi and Ripley, Mississippi. All but one of them are still alive. One of the soldiers from Mississippi was represented by his son. Founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the National Order of the Legion of Honor recognizes eminent services to the French Republic. Foreign nationals who have served France or the ideals it upholds may receive a distinction from the Legion of Honor. American veterans who risked their lives during World War II and who fought on French territory qualify to be decorated as Knights of the Legion of Honor. Veterans must have fought in one of the four main campaigns of the Liberation of France: Normandy, Provence, Ardennes or northern France. Donald said his father left the United States on Christmas Day 1943 after training in the Air Corps. A roundabout route through South America and west Africa landed Ellington in the United Kingdom just after the arrival of 1944. There he trained to carry paratroopers for the massive invasion effort being planned at

Normandy Beach in France. D-Day started early for Ellington: At 1:30 a.m. on June 6, 1944, he was cruising over the coast of France to drop in paratroopers. And this was no bomber flying far out of sight; troop carriers had to fly “low and slow” for the soldiers to exit and land accurately. His plane returned to England as dawn was breaking, but his day was not done. “My dad — somewhat unique — went to Normandy twice on D-Day,” Donald said. “They told him to get some sleep, but he always said he was shaking too much to sleep.” That afternoon, his plane returned to France towing glider infantry in its wake. Donald said his father was always proud that his entire squadron survived D-Day. “He had a busy June 6,” Donald said. After the invasion of Normandy, Ellington was on hand for almost every European war effort that required a carrier plane. His plane dropped paratroopers, ammunition, food and other supplies for the invasion of southern France, the invasion of Holland and the Battle of the Bulge, among others. Typically they would carry a load of wounded soldiers on the return trip.

“Most of their airfields when they would land to bring supplies… (were) cow pastures,” Donald said. Later in the war effort, Ellington also helped evacuate French citizens who had been pressed into labor efforts during the occupation of France. Ellington was prepared to continue his duties during the planned invasion of Japan. While he was on leave in July 1945 to see 13-month-old Donald for the first time, however, the atomic bombs were dropped on Japan. Instead of being told to report to the West Coast for the invasion, Ellington was told to discharge and stay home with his family. After World War II, Ellington worked in the telephone industry until he retired. He would frequently talk about his service with Donald and his sister, telling them that he was glad he went but would not want to repeat it. Donald was the one who decided to nominate his father for the Legion of Honor. “From D-Day on, he was involved in every airborne drop or glider tow mission that occurred in Europe,” Donald said. “I’m very proud.”

HooverSun.com Briana Kinsey is receiving the Tomorrow’s Young Woman of Distinction award. Photos courtesy of Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama.

Vickie Saxon is receiving the Tomorrow’s Leader award.

Linda Sewell is receiving the Woman of Distinction award for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

March 2016 • A19

Girl Scouts to honor 3 Hoover residents By ERICA TECHO Three Hoover residents have been selected to receive 2016 Women of Distinction Awards by the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama. The three are among 15 women to be recognized at an awards luncheon at the Harbert Center in downtown Birmingham on March 11. Award winners are nominated based on their civic, academic or professional involvement and contributions to the community. The winners also provide a good example for Girl Scouts, said Hannah Wallace, director of communications and marketing for Girls Scouts of North-Central Alabama. These girls are growing up in an online world, and it can be difficult to plug them in with real-world mentors, Wallace said. “Our girls need role models,” she said. “They need real inspiration -- role models who lead by example in their specific community.” Award winners from Hoover include Briana Kinsey, who is receiving the Tomorrow’s Young Woman of Distinction award; Vickie Saxon, who is receiving the Tomorrow’s Leader award; and Linda Sewell, who is receiving the Woman of Distinction award for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Kinsey is president and founder of Daring to Defeat Diabetes Inc., a nonprofit geared toward advocating, educating and fundraising to defeat Type I and Type II diabetes. The American Diabetes

Association in 2014 prewe may not always recsented her the Champion ognize our own gifts, but to Stop Diabetes Award. when we share them with She is a senior at the others, we see how much Women of University of Alabama and we really do have to give,” has participated in the Miss Sewell said. Distinction Alabama pageant several Local Girl Scouts have Awards times, last year making the written questions for this Luncheon top five. year’s award winners, and “Service is important the winners will provide • WHERE: Harbert because it allows me to answers in a short video Center, downtown make a positive change in to be shown at the awards Birmingham my community by helpluncheon. • WHEN: Friday, ing others,” Kinsey said. “They’ll really be able March 11 at 11:30 “Throughout my life, to see what makes these a.m. many people have helped women tick, how hard they • COST: $60 me along my journey, and had to work to get there,” general admission; I feel that I must give back Wallace said. $45 for Girl Scout just as the Bible tells us Some women also members that, ‘To whom much is remain involved with Girl given, much is required.’” Scouts by volunteering, Saxon, senior vice presiparticipating in fundraisers dent of enterprise resources and speaking with troops for Blue Cross and Blue in the area. Shield of Alabama, said she At the luncheon, each believes service is an important way to woman will give a short speech regardmake a difference in the community. ing her award. Tickets are $60 for general “Our service has a positive impact on admission and $45 for Girl Scout memour communities and can change lives,” bers. Proceeds from the luncheon support Saxon said. “I am committed to making a Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama. difference, whether it is in art, wellness, “I think the greater importance is that women’s leadership or education.” you’re supporting Girl Scouts, and not just Sewell, vice president of external a national brand of Girl Scouts, but the affairs for Energen Corp., previously has [groups] right outside your door,” Wallace been recognized by the Economic Devel- said. opment Association of Alabama for her For more information about reservarole in supporting work to bring industries tions or sponsorships for the luncheon, to Alabama. contact Tonya Mines at 800-734-4541, “A valuable lesson I’ve learned is that ext. 1030 or tmines@girlscoutsnca.org.

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A20 â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Hoover Sun

Benefiting Birmingham pets The Animal League of Birmingham supports area rescue groups

A runner finishes at the Animal League of Birminghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Paws for the Cause fundraiser. Photo courtesy of Animal League of Birmingham.

HooverSun.com By ERICA TECHO The Animal League of Birmingham does not have a building, and it does not take in pets, but last year it helped serve more than 800 dogs and cats. Rather than help individual pets, this Shelby County nonprofit helps support animal rescue groups and shelters in Birmingham and surrounding areas, and its lack of a home base means more animals can benefit. “We’ll probably never have a facility,” said Peggy Cropp, who serves on the league’s board and as its president. “We are able to therefore use all of our money strictly for our cause, and we don’t have to pay rent; there is no overhead.” The Animal League of Birmingham started when a lack of manpower meant Paws for the Cause, a 5K and fun run benefiting the Shelby Humane Society, almost couldn’t continue. Donna McFeeters, a co-founder and treasurer for the league, said their organization came together to continue the event. In 2014, the Animal League raised $10,000 to go toward spaying and neutering at the Shelby Humane Society. After that donation was made, the humane society called to say they had a matching donor, so they received $20,000 in total for their spay/neuter program. “That was probably one of our best moments,” Cropp said. The seventh annual Paws for the Cause took place in October, and they used the money to improve the lives of animals — 100 new beds, one per kennel, and high-quality food were purchased. “To me, the money that we got from that race this past year and the year before were the most powerful donations we’ve ever made to Shelby Humane Society,” Cropp said. While Paws for a Cause benefits the Shelby Humane Society specifically, the Animal League holds several events throughout the year that benefit multiple nonprofits. “We didn’t really get into this to be a rescue,” McFeeters said. “We want to help rescues. We know sometimes they take in animals that need medical care, and they don’t have funds for the medical care, or rescues that get

March 2016 • A21 in a bind and need food and don’t have the money.” When a shelter or rescue is struggling, the group is also able to help rescues and shelters quickly, Cropp said. One shelter was in need of donations, and Cropp said they were able to quickly get $1,000 to them. “There was no grant process. It didn’t go on for days, weeks,” Cropp said. “There weren’t animals starving, waiting for that to happen. It was literally an overnight vote we took.” Functioning this way is necessary with shelters, Cropp said. Sometimes, a shelter’s need is immediate and they cannot wait for a fundraiser or donor. “A lot of times their cries for help are not well thought out, meaning sometimes it’s an overnight, desperate emergency SOS,” Cropp said, “and that is where we are very beneficial to their organizations.” The Animal League currently has about 30 members, but March is their “Friends and Family” recruitment month. They hope to add 20 new members in 2016. “We’re always looking for more members because the more manpower we have, the more we can do and the more money we can raise,” McFeeters said. “Then, the more money we can give to organizations to help them.” Volunteers organize and work at events and meet once a month. The volunteer work is fun and rewarding, Cropp said, but participating is about more than just loving animals. “Everybody says, ‘Oh, I want to join because I love animals,’ and that’s fantastic, but you need to be willing to get dirty, too,” Cropp said. “We don’t mess around.” Cropp and McFeeters said if people are looking for a way to help out, they also encourage people to volunteer at shelters. “It takes people to come and volunteer,” McFeeters said. “An animal is a lot more desirable if they’re clean, if they don’t smell. If they’re healthy and look good, and if you go into the shelter and volunteer, even if you just go and walk dogs, they’re happier.” For more information about the Animal League of Birmingham, visit theanimalleagueofbirmingham.com or find them on Facebook.

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Members of the Animal League of Birmingham at their annual Paws for the Cause fundraiser. Photo courtesy of Animal League of Birmingham.

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A22 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

It’s time to vote for your favorites for 2016 THE NOMINEES FOOD AND DRINK  Ranch House  Fried Green Tomato’s ► Most Friendly Service  Green Valley Drug  Logan’s Roadhouse  The Whole Scoop  Waffle House  Full Moon BBQ  Amigos Mexical Grill  Tropical Smoothie Café  Zöe’s Kitchen  Beef O’Brady’s  Panera Bread  Newk’s  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Jack’s  Pita Café  Chick-fil-A  Edgar’s  Pacific Rim  Taste of Thailand  Brock’s at Renaissance  Applebee’s  Stix  Panera Bread Ross Bridge  Golden Rule BBQ  Johnny Rockets ► Best Date Night  Ragtime Café  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  La Fiesta  Green Valley Drug  Renaissance Ross Bridge  Tip Top Grill  The Boot at Preserve Village  Firebirds  Jim n Nicks  Outback Steakhouse  Iguana Grill  Cajun Steamer  J. Alexander’s  J. Alexander’s  Purple Onion  Jimmy John’s  Bonefish Grill  Bonefish Grill  Baja Burger  The Melting Pot  Mikey’s Grill  Jubilee Joe’s  Patton Creek Carmike  Firebirds  Silver Coin Indian Grill  The Comedy Club Stardome  Jimmy John’s  Tortuga’s  Shula’s  Baja Burger  La Fiesta  Rock ‘N Roll Sushi ► Best Asian Food  Jim and Nick’s  Beef O Brady’s  Taste of Thailand  Habañero’s  Silver Coin Indian Grill  Osaka Sushi Bar  Firehouse Subs  The Boot at Preserve Village  Mandarin House  Mikey’s Grill  Chuck’s Fish  Mr. Chen’s  Capers on Park Avenue  Cajun Steamer  Pacific Rim  Customs Café  Mikey’s Grill  Stix  Frontera Grill  Sumo Japanese Steakhouse  New China ► Most Kid Friendly Restaurant  Blue Pacific at Hoover and Sushi Bar  The Whole Scoop Food Mart ► Best Ladies’ Lunch Spot  Amigos  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Yuki Japanese Restaurant  Chick-fil-A  Ashley Mac’s  Sumo Japanese Steakhouse  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Chicken Salad Chick and Sushi Bar  Steak N Shake  Edgar’s  Hunan Garden  Beef O’Brady’s  Taziki’s  Peking Wok  Stix  The Egg & I  China Bistro  Brixx Pizza  The Boot at Preserve Village  Silver Coin Indian Grill  California Pizza Kitchen  Firebirds  Shono’s Japanese Grill  Johnny Rockets  Zöe’s Kitchen  Ming’s Cuisine  La Fiesta  J Alexander’s ► Best Italian Food  Jim and Nick’s  Tip Top Grill  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Buffalo Wild Wings  Habañero’s  Salvatore’s  The Boot at Preserve Village  O Sushi  Costa’s Mediterranean  Yuki Japanese  Panera Bread  Olive Garden  Zaxby’s  China Bistro  Bellini’s Ristorante and Bar  Frontera Grill  Customs Café  Sanpeggio’s  Salvatore’s  Newk’s  Baker’s Famous Pizza  IHOP ► Best Casual Dining ► Best Mediterranean Food  Tortuga’s  Salvatore’s  Purple Onion  Full Moon BBQ  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Pita Café ► Best Breakfast/Brunch  Taziki’s  Costa’s  The Egg & I  Outback Steakhouse  Taziki’s  Big Bad Breakfast  Chick-fil-A  Zöe’s Kitchen  I Love Juice Bar  Habañero’s ► Best Mexican Food  IHOP  The Boot at Preserve Village  Amigos  Tip Top Grill  Olive Garden  Iguana Grill  Merk’s Tavern & Grill

Sun

 Habañero’s  Hacienda Grill  Frontera Grill  Pablo’s  La Fiesta  Pollo Lucas  El Gringo  Taqueria Mexico  Don Pepe  La Brisa  Moe’s Southwest Grill

 The Whole Scoop  Krispy Kreme  Edgar’s  Publix Bakery  Yogurt Mountain  Gigi’s Cupcakes  Ashley Mac’s  Shipley Do-Nuts  Johnny Brusco’s  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Chick-fil-A  Customs Café  Beef O’ Brady’s

► Best New Restaurant (must have opened after February 2015)  Capers on Park Avenue ► Best Cheese Dip  Pie Five  Iguana Grill  Brixx Pizza  Superior Grill  Rock N Roll Sushi  Habañero’s  Blue Pacific at Hoover  Frontera Grill  La Fiesta Food Mart  Amigos ► Best Burger  Milo’s  J. Alexander’s  Baja Burger  Pablo’s  Five Guys  Moe’s Southwest  Johnny Rocket’s  El Gringo  Green Valley Drug  Beef O’ Brady’s  Beef O’Brady’s  The Melting Pot  Golden Rule BBQ ► Best Dessert (name of the  Firebirds dessert and restaurant)  Steak n Shake  White Chocolate Bread  The Boot at Preserve Village Pudding, Vecchia Pizzeria  Shula’s Steakhouse and Mercato  The Egg & I  Strawberry Cake, Edgar’s  Famous Fred’s Bakery & Café  Jim and Nick’s  Crème Brûlée Cheesecake,  The Boot at Preserve Village Firebirds  Jefferson’s  Italian Cream Cake, Vecchia  Purple Onion Pizzeria and Mercato  Tiramisu, Olive Garden ► Best Pizza  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Caramel Pudding, California  Mellow Mushroom Pizza Kitchen  Pazzo! Big Slice Pizza  Tres Leches Cake, El Mercado  Domino’s  Gulab Jamun, Silver Coin  Papa John’s Indian Grill  Papa Murphy’s  Funnel Fries, Beef O’Bradys  Tortuga’s  Turtle Sundae, The Whole  Sanpeggio’s Scoop  Johnny Brusco’s  Cannolis, Vecchia Pizzeria  California Pizza Kitchen and Mercato  Salvatore’s  Chocolate Cake, Vecchia  Pie Five Pizzeria and Mercato  Brixx Pizza  Chocolate Cake, Zöe’s Kitchen  Baker’s Famous Pizza  Bread Pudding, Mikey’s Grill  Marco’s  Pecan Cobbler, Capers on  Pizza Hut Park Avenue  Beef O’ Brady’s  Fried Pie, Golden Rule BBQ  Creme Brulee, J Alexander’s ► Best Place for a Sweet Treat

Vote at hooversun.com/nominate-best-of by March 2. BEST OF HOOVER winners will be announced online and in the April issue.

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • A23 BUSINESSES AND SERVICES

► Best New Business (must have opened after February 2015)  Sprouts Farmers Market  Brixx Pizza  Hawthorne at Wisteria  Field and Stream  I Love Juice Bar  Tracey Mercer optometrist  Blu Spero  Nova Essence Medispa  Sweetspire Gardens  Mason Music ► Best Place to Buy a Gift  Bike Link of Hoover  2nd and Charles  Wrapsody  New Life Art  Academy Sports  Bargain Hunt  World Market  Mustard Seeds  Lou Lou’s  Hoover Shipping  Von Maur ► Best Children’s Store  2nd and Charles  Learning Express  Growing Tree  Toys R Us  Belk  Kicks Shoes for Kids  Children’s Place  Sew Precious  Gymboree  Crazy 8  Justice  Von Maur

 Garden Ridge  Estes Warehouse Tires  El Mercado ► Best Women’s Clothing Store  Haverty’s  Anthony’s Car Wash  Target  South - Greystone  Target  Automotive and Truck Doctor ► Best Real Estate Agent  Belk  Hoover Toyota  Patti Schreiner ► Best Customer Service  Pink Tulip  Bike Link of Hoover  Christian Brothers Automotive  Scott Lewis  The Urban Barn  Chick-fil-A  Long Lewis Ford  Marsha Bates  Lotus Boutique  Hawthorne at Wisteria  Riverchase Tire  Leslie Ingle  Von Maur  Walgreens  Tom Douglass ► Best Salon  Ann Taylor Loft  Tameron Honda  Jacob Preston SalonSpa  Caron Russo  New York and Company  Von Maur  O’Hair  Kate Giffin  SteinMart  The Boot at Preserve Village  Head Start  Steve and Anna Parker  Loft  PetCo  Studio 21  Thad Lowery  Lou Lou’s  Publix  Great Clips  Susette Clark-Walker  Anthropologie  Beef O Brady’s  Profiles Hair & Nail Studio  Kathy Gipson  White House Black Market  Costco  Stone Salon  Anna Lu Hemphill ► Best Store for Men  The Whole Scoop  The Look  Kelli Gunnells  Bike Link of Hoover  Hoover Plumbing  Pure Style Salon & Spa  James Harwell  Banana Republic  Wrapsody  DL Salon  Kelly Williams  Academy Sports  Long-Lewis Ford  T. Fox Salon  Donna Gaskins  Belk  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  Salon Michelle  Dianne Taylor  Field and Stream  Backus Orthodontics  Salon 150  PK Ellison  Jos. A. Bank  Hoover Public Library  Capelli Salon  Rick Mosier  Von Maur  Renaissance Ross Bridge Spa ► Best New Car Dealership ► Best Veterinarian  Kohl’s  Caldwell Mill Animal Clinic ► Best Golf Course  Hoover Toyota  Express Men  Patton Chapel Animal Clinic  Riverchase Country Club  Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall  DXL  Alford Avenue Veterinary  Hoover Country Club  Crest Cadillac ► Best Place to Buy Home Décor  Robert Trent Jones  Long-Lewis Ford Hospital  Belk  Bluff Park Animal Clinic  Tameron Honda at Ross Bridge  New Life Art  Lake Crest Animal Clinic  Inverness Country Club  Benton Nissan  At Home  Galleria Animal Clinic  Greystone Golf ► Best Used Car Dealership  Rosegate Design  Metro Cat Clinic  Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall & Country Club  Urban Home Market  South Shades Crest Animal ► Best Grocery Store  Benton Nissan  Home Goods  Sprouts Farmers Market  Tameron Honda Clinic  IO Metro  Publix  Carmax ► Best Mechanic Shop  Hobby Lobby  Hendrick’s  Piggly Wiggly  SouthTown Motors  Pier One  Galleria Tire Center  Organic Harvest  CRM Motors  Christmas Tree Shop  CarCare Inc.  Wal-Mart  Wrapsody

HEALTH AND WELLNESS ► Best Work Out Facility Adolescent Dentistry  Planet Fitness  Michael Anglin, DDS,  Hoover YMCA Pediatric Dentistry  24e  James Dobbs  Hoover Recreation Center  Preston Reynolds, DMD  Fitness 4U 24/7  Cowan Family Dentistry  Hoover Fitness  Todd Reeves, Chace Lake  Fit People Family Dentistry  Orangetheory Fitness  Amanda Thompson  Barganier & LeCroy ► Best Dentist  Donald Romano, Perrigo  Crossings Dental Center  Kasey Davis Dentistry Dental Care  Baker Chambliss, MedPlex  Thomas Jones, DMD  Galleria Dental Pediatric Dentistry  Lauten Johnson, Pediatric &  Lucas Perrigo, Perrigo Adolescent Dentistry Dental Care  James Sanderson, ► Best Orthodontist  Birmingham Orthodontics SanDentistry  Acton Road Family Dentistry  Backus Orthodontics  Jennifer Morrissey, Hoover  PT Orthodontics  Whitehead Orthodontics Family Dentistry  Richard Real, Bluff Park Dental  Great Smiles Orthodontics  Clark Thomas, Pediatric &

 Massage Envy Grandview Health Hoover ► Best Pediatrician  Spa Greystone  Jeffery Stone, Greenvale  Carrie Huner, Brookwood ► Best Chiropractor Pediatrics Primary Care  Chiropractic Acupuncture  John Cortopassi, Greenvale  Marina Brainin, UAB Health Clinic Pediatrics Medicine Hoover  Jason Koenig, Koenig Wellness  Brian Dudgeon, Greenvale  Vickie Moore, Birmingham  Magic City Chiropractor Pediatrics Internal Medicine Associates  Lake Crest Chiropractor  Daniel Carter, Greenvale  Keith Parish, Hoover Urgent  Family Wellness Chiropractic Pediatrics Care  My Chiropractor Hoover  Toren Anderson, Greenvale  Jennifer Miller, UAB Medicine ► Best Orthopedist Pediatrics Hoover  Mike Ellerbusch, Southlake  Jeff Malone, South Trace  Michael McIntyre, MedCenter Orthopedics Pediatrics Hoover  CJ Talbert, Southlake  John Petelos, Greenvale ► Best Pharmacy Orthopedics  Walgreens Pediatrics  Robert Flannery, Lemak  CVS ► Best Family Practitioner Sports  Jody Gilstrap, Baptist Health  Rite Aid  Alabama Orthopedic center  Publix Center  William Sudduth, Southlake  Anisa Ssengoba-Ubogu, UAB  Green Valley Drugs Orthopedics  Robert’s Discount Pharmacy Medicine Hoover  Jeffrey Davis, Andrews  Darlene Traffanstedt, Hoover ► Best Spa Sports Medicine  Renaissance Ross Bridge Spa Internal Medicine Associates  James H. Marshall,  Stone Salon and Spa

COMMUNITY  Hoover Public Library  Russet Woods ► Best Outdoor Space  Ross Bridge Summer Reading Programs  Moss Rock Preserve  Eden View for Children and Adult  Veterans Park  Ross Bridge Arts and Music  Riverchase  Aldridge Gardens  Rushing Parc on the Green  Star Lake  Uncorked! On the Green  Birchtree ► Best Community Event  Hoover City Dad Brigade  Southpointe  Moss Rock Festival  Southern Voices  Green Valley  Taste of Hoover  Beef O’ Brady’s St. Patrick’s  Grand Oaks  Celebrate Hoover Day  Bluff Park Day  Bluff Park Art Show  Hoover Night Out ► Best Church Choir  Arts & Crafts at  Hunter Street Baptist ► Best Neighborhood The Preserve  Lake Cyrus  Episcopal Church of the Holy  Christmas Tree Lighting  The Preserve Apostles Event at City Hall  Trace Crossings  Shades Crest Baptist  SEC Baseball Tournament  Monte D’oro  Riverchase United Methodist  Hoover Hayride & Family  Rocky Ridge  Prince of Peace Catholic Night  Sandpiper Trail  Bluff Park United Methodist  Pig Iron Barbecue Challenge  Magnolia Grove  St. Peter’s Catholic  Color Run  Lake Crest ► Best Teacher  Preserve Jazz Festival

 Katie Symonds  Peggy Eason  Lesa Gibson  Amy Everson  Deidre Woods  Krystal Pettit  Kent Haines  Dan Cater  Kathryn Flippo  Debbie Sessamen  Mark Conner  John DiPlacido  Rebecca Reach  Jan Holcomb  Tanya Constantine  Judy Rapp  Kathy Tyson  Zach Butler  Shane Harmon  Lindsey Nichols

 Julie Self  Laci Holden  Amy Tomberlin  April Bucki  Beth Pressley  Jennifer Kuklinski  Chad Cooley  Connie Angstadt  Kellye Self

► Best Place for Family Outing  Vecchia Pizzeria and Mercato  The Preserve  Aldridge Gardens  Riverchase Galleria  La Fiesta  Moss Rock Preserve  Veterans Park  The Boot at Preserve Village  Hoover Public Library  Jim and Nick’s

A24 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

STEEL CITY MEETS

SILK

By SYDNEY CROMWELL

Jennifer Colvin said the fun of aerial silks is that it is both a workout and a performance art allowing for creative expression. Photos by Sydney Cromwell.

Ann Williams’ arms were trembling. She had just been through the most intense workout she’d had in years, and she wanted to do it again. “I was having fun, and I wanted to push myself to try that skill one more time even though my abs are killing me,” Williams said, recalling her frustration. “I was like jelly, and I didn’t want to be.” That was Williams’ first experience with aerial silks, a gymnastic discipline performed on two fabric ribbons hanging from the ceiling. She tried it in California and wanted to do it again, but there were no aerial silk programs closer than Atlanta. As the owner of Head Over Heels Gymnastics, located at 500 Caldwell Trace, Williams knew she had a unique opportunity to start something new in Birmingham. “I thought if I’m this hooked, surely there are going to be other people in the community that are hooked too,” Williams said. It was risky. Williams had no idea if the aerial program would take off. She found a local instructor, Jennifer Colvin, who had experience in other aerial disciplines but not silks. They took an instructor training class in Atlanta, installed the special rigging in July and began classes in August. “It was kind of a whirlwind — ‘OK, we’re going to do it!’” Williams recalled. The risk paid off. Already there are five regular students in the kids class, and between seven and 10 regulars in the adult class. Colvin said

Jennifer Colvin (red aerial silk) and Ann Williams started Birmingham’s first aerial silks classes in August. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Aerial Silk Classes • WHERE: Head Over Heels Gymnastics, 500 Caldwell Trace • HOURS: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (kids age 9-15) and 7:30-9 p.m. (adults) • COST: $25 for single class, lower rates if purchasing multiple classes • CALL: 981-2720 • WEB: headoverheelsgyms.com

people always respond with “big smiles and laughter” when they first try the silks. Williams remembers one woman’s response at the end of the first workshop: “You just made Birmingham so much cooler!” Colvin said that people keep coming back because of the creativity and performance that comes with the silks. “With the silks there’s so many ways to do different things or get into different positions or the same position, and it brings a lot of creativity,” Colvin said. “I think it helps a lot with confidence. I think it really helps bring a lot of confidence out in the students because it gives them an outlet.” Her favorite part of teaching the classes is watching her students finally get the pose they’ve been working on. “Whenever they’ve had a difficult pose or position or move that they’ve been trying to get and they actually nail it, I get so excited for them and you can just see that smile and the light up on their face. You just can’t ask for more than that,” Colvin said. The silks are fun, but it’s still a workout. Despite their regular practice, Colvin and Williams agree they both would have difficulty staying on the silks and moving through poses for more than five minutes. “When you get up there and you’re trying to stay on the silks for more than two minutes, you’re going to be huffing and puffing,” Colvin said. “It’s just amazing to see how much stronger people have gotten who have been coming regularly,” Williams said. Aerial silk routines are a workout for the arms and core, especially, but Colvin said it is low-impact on most joints. There are also ways to modify routines to suit individual capacities. Colvin has a student with one numb hand and another with a knee injury who can’t fully straighten her leg. In both cases, the students continue to perform on the silks, just with slightly different techniques. “That’s part of what’s interesting to me, because even though I’m in my 50s so I don’t have the flexibility I had even in my 30s, there’s certain skills that either I can’t do or they don’t look good when I do them,” Williams said. “But then there are just so many other things that it’s like ‘OK, forget that one, I’ll do this one.’” Both Colvin and Williams want to see the aerial silks community grow in Birmingham, and perhaps get to the point of doing performances. Most frequently, Colvin said people hesitate to join the class because they think they aren’t strong enough. “Don’t let that bother you. Strength — that’ll come later. The excitement and the joy and just the passion and creativity — bring that along with you and we’ll do the rest,” Colvin said.

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • A25

MEDICAL SERVICES

directory special advertising section

Addiction Recovery at UAB, A25

Alabama Vein Center, A26

Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center, A26

Baptist Health Center - Hoover, A27

Neurogenx Nerve Center, A28

Children’s of Alabama, A28

Cardiovascular Associates, A27

Nova Essence, A29

Addiction Recovery offering hope, guidance and support

For the person struggling with alcohol and substance dependence, the first steps toward recovery can be apprehensive and uncertain. The Addiction Recovery Program at UAB offers hope, guidance and support in those early steps toward a new life. Their staff is comprised of licensed and certified counselors and social workers who guide and support patients as they learn new tools and behaviors to assist them in their recovery process. UAB’s Addiction Recovery Program focuses on treating the whole person with various types of therapies that include group and individualized therapy, individualized treatment planning, recovery

education, recreational therapy, family therapy, family workshops, linkage to sober living and discharge planning. In addition to these core services, UAB takes a unique approach to healing the whole person through activities that engage the mind, spirit and body. Activities such as rock climbing, drum circle, music and art help the patient reconnect to themselves and renew their spirits. Highly skilled specialists, comprehensive treatment and unparalleled medical resources replace a patient’s feelings of helplessness and uncertainty with hope and a firm foundation. As one of the region’s premier medical facilities, UAB has access to more than 1,000 expert physicians in 35 medical fields, including psychology and psychiatry. In addition, professional counselors work with patients on areas of concern such as pain management, sexual abuse, grief and trauma to deal with the problems underlying the substance dependency. Treatment is tailored to each patient’s needs. Upon arriving at the Addiction Recovery Program at UAB, the patient receives a comprehensive assessment by a team of specialists to determine the level of care needed and establish a plan for their recovery success. UAB offers both in-patient and outpatient care. Some patients may receive a combination of in and outpatient care. Patients also receive support for up to two years through the Aftercare Program. In addition to these programs, there is also an array of specialty services for individualized needs. The equine program offers experiential therapy through work with horses that allows patients to reconnect to their feelings. Equine therapy can be a major step toward reconnecting patients with themselves and their families. “Because horses are highly sensitive to congruency and feelings, it helps patients identify their own feelings,” said Terri Williams-Glass, clinical director. There are also programs that are specific to grief and trauma for patients dealing with the after effects of trauma that may have been experienced either in childhood or adulthood, as well as the pain of grief and loss. Since families are directly affected by the issues of alcohol and substance addiction, the Family Resource Program addresses these issues by assessing family needs and providing education about addiction and recovery. Relationship Group assists patients in dealing with relationship issues and teaches tools to build healthy relationships, set boundaries and communicate more effectively. In dealing with the whole person, the patient receives education and therapy to educate them about disease triggers, as well as to learn about diet and exercise to create a healthy lifestyle. As a result, patients replace old behaviors with new knowledge, support and sense of self to create a successful recovery, as they embark on a new life.

FAST FACTS Addiction recovery young adults • adults healthcare professionals 1713 6th Avenue South 975-7350 uabmedicine.org/addiction

A26 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Focused on community well-being Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center has been committed to provide the greater Birmingham area and their patients with the best treatment through their values of care, advocacy, service, integrity and accountability. While its primary office has remained in Homewood throughout the past 50 years, the practice has grown to include six locations. Other locations include Hoover, Chelsea, Alabaster, Cullman, and Trussville (opening June 2016). “Allergies, asthma and immune diseases can have a drastic effect on an individual’s quality of life. Our team of physicians, nurse practitioners and highly trained staff work together to help diagnose and treat patients who suffer from pediatric and adult allergies, skin disorders, sinus issues, asthma and immunological issues, as well as food and drug allergies,” said Helen Combs, practice development manager. Six board-certified pediatric and adult allergists, who include Dr. Weily Soong, Dr. Maxcie Sikora, Dr. John Anderson, Dr. Meghan Lemke, Dr. Sunena Argo and Dr. Amy CaJacob, provide patients with innovative care. These physicians are board-certified, uniquely trained and are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies (including environmental, food, insect and drug allergies), asthma and frequent cough, rhinitis (hay fever), sinus infections, eye allergies, Hereditary Angioedema and other immunological conditions. The specialists diagnose a patient’s conditions by collecting a complete medical history of each patient, performing a physical examination on the patient and assessing the patient’s environmental and other allergen exposure history. They may also perform tests, such as allergen skin tests and lung function tests. It is highly significant if the patient’s allergy symptoms occur in association with exposure. Allergy diagnostic tests such as skin tests or blood tests provide similar confirmation of what your health history tells your allergist. The focus is on achieving

a diagnosis and providing effective care and patient education to restore an optimal quality of life for our patients. “We believe all patients should be treated with, respect, kindness and courtesy. Our practice has been committed to providing the greater Birmingham area and our patients with the highest quality of care through our values of advocacy, service, integrity and accountability. We believe in spending the extra time to educate our patients, as well as serve our community through education, preventative medicine and outreach programs,” said Combs. The core values of Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center are reﬂected in the company’s social responsibility commitments across a number of areas. “As the largest allergy and asthma practice in Alabama, we are dedicated to contributing to the well-being of the communities in which we live, work and play. Our social responsibility efforts include corporate giving, local community relations, volunteerism, diversity and inclusion, ethics and compliance, wellness and sustainability initiatives. We partner locally to support, enhance, and continually improve upon these efforts, in addition to the progress we are making to positively impact the health and wellness of the individuals within our communities,” said Combs.

FAST FACTS Diagnosis and treatment of allergies, asthma, food allergy, sinus, immune diseases Homewood, Hoover, Chelsea, Alabaster, Cullman, and Trussville (opening June 2016) 205-871-9661 Visit alabamaallergy.com for an appointment

Alabama Vein Center offers expertise and excellence

FAST FACTS Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m.– 5 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m.-noon 700 Montgomery Hwy., Ste 210 823-0151 or 877-268-VEIN info@alabamaveincenter.com alabamaveincenter.com

Alabama Vein Center was founded in 2002 with the goal of creating a dedicated vein center of excellence for the treatment of venous diseases with state of the art technology and procedures. Dr. Charles Austin Hunt II, MD, FACS, RPVI, owner of the Alabama Vein Centers, is a board-certified expert in the vein treatment field. He was trained in phlebology by Dr. John Kingsley, an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of venous disorders. Dr. Hunt has performed over 10,000 endovenous laser procedures to treat varicose vein disease. He specializes in treating venous disorders and performing endovenous laser ablation, microphlebectomy and sclerotherapy. With five locations throughout Alabama, including their primary location in Vestavia Hills, as well as offices in Tuscaloosa, Prattville, Cullman and Oxford, these experienced professionals are committed to the highest quality care for their patients. Dr. Hunt’s handpicked staff is highly qualified, some with 15 to 20 years of experience in the field. All of their employees are licensed and credentialed highly skilled medical professionals in their particular area, including medical assistants, scrub technicians, ultrasonographers, registered nurses, nurse anesthetists, physician assistants and estheticians. They have successfully treated more than 30,000 patients experiencing some type of vein disorder. Alabama Vein Center has trained physicians and staff from all over the world, including Japan, Australia, Germany and Canada, as well as the United States, demonstrating modern techniques in the treatment of vein disease. Alabama Vein Center’s experienced staff

consults with large numbers of patients who may have struggled for years with their issues or have not been treated successfully in other facilities. The Vein Center is staffed with highly credentialed registered vascular technologists who are experts at accurately evaluating the venous system with ultrasound. Staff licensed CRNA’s (nurse anesthetists) provide safe conscious sedation to patients during laser treatment procedures to make them more comfortable and pain free. The Vein Center treats patients experiencing a wide variety of leg symptoms such as pain, swelling, fatigue, itching, burning, aching, restless legs and non-healing wounds. Once a diagnosis is made, a personalized treatment plan is then designed speciﬁcally to target the patient’s concern. They educate the patient to help them understand their speciﬁc venous problem and the best treatment option for resolving it. They also offer a comprehensive follow-up program to ensure excellent long-term results. Procedures offered include: Endovenous laser ablation (obliteration of primary diseased veins via laser), microphlebectomy (removal of large, painful varicose veins via micro incisions), sclerotherapy (injections of unsightly spider veins), vein wave (radio frequency treatment of smaller spider veins on the face), compression therapy (wide assortment of compression stockings), and varithena (ultrasound guided injections of problematic recurrent varicose veins). They also perform cosmetic treatments such as Botox, Juvederm, microdermabrasion, and offer a variety of skincare products such as Latisse and Skinceuticals. For more information, visit alabamaveincenter.com.

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • A27

Baptist Health Center - Hoover

5295 Preserve Parkway 682-6868 BaptistHealthAlabama.org

Comprehensive healthcare is conveniently located for you at Baptist Health Center – Hoover. High-quality, convenient and compassionate care, driven by our purpose to honor God and others, allows us to focus on whole person healing and prevention of those patients and families trusting us with their care. Located at 5295 Preserve Parkway, our medical and diagnostic facility is home to several practices including primary care, imaging, specialty, sleep and vein centers. Hoover Primary Care is home to Maria Bennett, MD, Amita Chhabra, MD, Jody Gilstrap, MD, Dorothy “Beth” Hughes, MD and Bonnie Moore, CRNP. Our center is a nationally recognized Patient Centered Medical Home which demonstrates compassion and care for patients inside the clinic and in the community. Our staff collaborates with our hospitals and specialists for personalized care and will assist you in your long-term care as well as treat acute health situations. If you or a family member is in need of a primary care provider, call (205) 682-6077. Baptist Imaging at BHC Hoover is our fully ACR credentialed facility equipped with a wide bore MRI, CT scanner, bone density scanner (DEXA), X-ray, mammography and ultrasound. This full range of services allows our residents easy access close to home. To schedule an appointment, call (205) 949-4900. Our Specialty Center provides patients with a variety of providers in specialized medical fields. These options include general surgery, bariatric surgery, pulmonology, urology, colon/rectal surgery, gastroenterology, orthopedics, ENT, cardiology, audiology, sleep medicine and OB/GYN services. For the next available appointment with a specialist, call (205) 682-2925. Princeton Baptist’s Sleep Center is committed

to the diagnosis and treatment of all sleeping and waking disorders including sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and narcolepsy. The Center has held an accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine for over 20 years. Our facility provides a similar atmosphere of spending the night in a welcoming environment. To inquire about an overnight stay, call (205) 783-7378. The Baptist Vein Center is a state-of-theart, outpatient facility focusing on the care of patients with chronic venous disease. Common signs of this malady are spider veins, varicose veins, discoloration of the shin and ankles, leg swelling, and leg ulcers. Symptoms include leg pain, heaviness, aching, itching, throbbing, cramping and restless legs. Drs. James H. Isobe, MD, FACS, RVT, and Christopher R. Jones, MD, FACS, RVT, are diplomates of the American College of Phlebology, having completed the certification for the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease. Both of these physicians understand the problems associated with venous disease and are qualified to treat them with the modern modalities, all under local anesthesia, as a one-day procedure. Call (205) 949-9289 for an appointment and consultation. We are also proud to be the home of Greenvale Pediatrics and the Rheumatology Care Center. Baptist Health Center – Hoover is conveniently located just off of John Hawkins Parkway on Preserve Parkway. Accessible from both I-459 and Highway 31, our building is behind the Walgreens and across the street from Publix. To find a physician at BHC Hoover or other Brookwood Baptist Health physicians, call (877) 222-7847. We can be found online at BaptistHealthAlabama.org.

A28 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

U.S. News & World Report

This icon is not the official U.S. News & World Report best hospitals emblem.

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Russell Campus

1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233

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Breakthrough medical neuropathy treatment

FAST FACTS Peripheral Neuropathy and chronic nerve conditions Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 1849 Data Drive, Suite 1 549-4899 NeurogenxNerveCenterAlabama.com

The Neurogenx NerveCenter of Hoover specializes in restorative treatment for peripheral neuropathy and chronic nerve conditions. They are accredited specialists in the cutting-edge Neurogenx Electronic Signal Treatment (EST) Technology. Until now, nerve conditions have been very difficult to treat effectively. Neurogenx is not pain management, but rather a breakthrough treatment that is effective in more than four out of five patients. Neurogenx EST technology is FDA-cleared and provides a clinically-proven, non-invasive, non-surgical treatment for neuropathy and chronic nerve conditions that affect both the upper and lower extremities. Dr. Jeremy Allen, Medical Director at Neurogenx in Hoover, is a pain management specialist who is passionate about helping people overcome pain issues so that they can live their lives to the fullest. The NerveCenter’s friendly and compassionate staff and accessible Hoover office make it easy for patients to find the supportive care and treatment they need. The Neurogenx Treatment safely uses cutting-edge, patented, high frequency electronic waves to gently reach deep down through muscle and tissue to relieve neuropathy symptoms and severe neuromuscular pain. Neuropathy most often causes tingling, pain, burning and numbness in the hands and feet. The symptoms are a result of nerve damage due to diabetes, chronic nerve issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome and fibromyalgia. “The Neurogenx Electronic Signal Technology treatment changes all that,” said Paul Todd, Executive Director for the Neurogenx Center in Hoover. The non-invasive treatments create change on the cellular level, creating an environment that helps regenerate and restore nerve endings. As a result, patients find relief from pain, and

numbness and are able to regain the balance they may have lost, so they can have a better quality of life. “Anyone suffering from issues of nerve pain and numbness can come in for a free evaluation to determine if they are a good candidate for the treatment,” said Julie Barks, Patient Advocate at Neurogenx NerveCenter. The Neurogenx treatment can provide a successful solution for patients with complex neuropathic issues that aren’t responding to traditional protocols or for patients who no longer wish to rely on pain medications. Trained Neurogenx specialists begin with a medical history and comprehensive physical exam to fully understand the details of the patient’s condition. From this evaluation, a treatment plan is established for the patient. The initial evaluation takes less than an hour. Treatment sessions normally take 45 minutes to an hour. Opened in July of 2015, the Hoover NerveCenter was the country’s first stand-alone Neurogenx facility. Due to growing awareness of the treatment’s success, there are now six Neurogenx NerveCenters nationwide: including locations in Ohio, Tennessee and Florida. Ten more NerveCenters are expected to open in the next six months. Neurogenx is unlike any other treatment currently available. “This exclusive medical device uses a very broad range of electrical frequencies with sophisticated waveforms that are similar to the ones generated by the human body,” said James Martellini, Neurogenx Program Director. “This compatibility is what creates the overwhelmingly positive medical results. Retesting with nerve conduction studies and nerve fiber density testing, usually starting six months post-discharge, objectivity validates these results.”

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • A29

Offering a transformative experience Nova Essence specializes in cutting edge medical and cosmetic skin care. Dr. Nova Law, a board certified family practice physician, brings her medical expertise to Nova Essence, which specializes in body contouring and cosmetic services. Dr. Law strongly believes in the personal touch and meets one on one with the patient to assess their needs and determine their treatment. Dr. Law graduated from UCLA with numerous awards. She went on to receive her medical degree from Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine and completed her residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland, which included electives at Harvard Medical School, University of Zimbabwe, Ghana Medical School, Carraway and Baptist Princeton both in Birmingham. The Day Spa offers a variety of treatments that include facials, hair care, body treatments, makeup application, manicures, pedicures, medical waxing services and Vichy shower, in which hydrotherapeutic jets relax the body and mind and cleanse impurities and restore the skin. There are also couples massages for a relaxing escape for two. The Spa’s tranquil ambiance combined with cutting edge technology and treatments creates a transformative experience for patients. Innovative treatments include the Strawberry Laser Lipo, Vampire Facelift, O-shot, Priapus Shot and hair rejuvenation, among others. Dr. Law’s medical background enables her to serve the patient in ways of research, analysis and testing. Strawberry Laser Lipo system uses cold lasers to penetrate the fat cells, creating pores in the cells and causing them to drain themselves of fat and water. The fluids then enter the lymphatic

system and are flushed from the body, causing the patient to lose up to an inch or more in the desired area. The average patient can expect to lose inches with each visit. The Vampire Facelift uses the patient’s own blood to restore collagen and turn back the clock naturally without invasive surgery. The doctor uses a centrifuge that isolates platelets from the blood and activates those platelets to cause the release from the platelets of at least eight growth factors that would normally be used to heal injured tissue. These growth factors cause increased collagen and new blood flow. Once injected into the skin, the growth factors activate stem cells that repair and generate younger looking skin. Dr. Law received specialized training in the use of lasers for the treatment of various medical problems, as well as cosmetic procedures. She has been trained by many of the most prominent physicians in the cosmetic laser field, including R. Rox Anderson, MD, Director of the Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital at Harvard Medical School. She also trained with Dr. Charles Runels, the inventor of the Vampire Facelift. “I learn from everyone and then make it my own,” said Dr. Law. There are also classes for diabetes and weight loss. “We do genetic testing to see what diet is right for you. We don’t believe in diets. We want it to be a way of life – to show you how you should be eating for the rest of your life,” she said. “Nova Essence is a one stop shop for healing the person from the inside out. We can reverse the aging process and it’s all natural and safe,” she said. “We believe that less is more effective. I love seeing the amazing results of my patients.”

FAST FACTS Medical and cosmetic skin care Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 1 p.m.-6 p.m. 160 Main Street, Suite 200 Patton Creek Shopping Center 205- 319-4445 novaessencemedispa.com

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A30 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

REZONING: WHO WILL MOVE AND TO WHERE? The following shows where children from certain neighborhoods would be rezoned to go to school under Superintendent Kathy Murphy's proposal. It includes new middle and high school tracks where changes are proposed. This is Murphy's original proposal and is subject to change before being presented to the school board and federal court for approval. BLUFF PARK (35 KIDS REZONED) ► Crest Cove to Gwin DEER VALLEY (292 KIDS REZONED) ► Lake Cyrus to SSC K-2/Brock's Gap 3-5 ► Ridge Crossings to SSC K-2/Brock's Gap 3-5 GREEN VALLEY (237 KIDS REZONED) ► Alpine Village to Gwin ► Chapel Hill to Rocky Ridge/Berry/Spain Park ► Diane to Rocky Ridge/Berry/Spain Park ► Green Pine condos to Rocky Ridge/Berry/Spain Park ► Monte D'Oro to Shades Mtn/Berry/Spain Park ► Spring Aire to Rocky Ridge/Berry/Spain Park ► The Abbey at Riverchase to Gwin ► Villa Maria Apts. to Rocky Ridge/Berry/Spain Park ► Warringwood Heights to Rocky Ridge/Berry/Spain Park ► Willows to Gwin ► Woodmeadows to Gwin GWIN (292 KIDS REZONED) ► Carousel Court to Green Valley ► Chapel Park to Green Valley ► Eden Oaks to Green Valley ► Highland Crest to Trace Crossings/Simmons ► Pinewood to Trace Crossings/Simmons ► Place at Galleria to Green Valley ► The Preserve to Trace Crossings/Simmons ► Treeline Court to Green Valley RIVERCHASE (169 KIDS REZONED) ► Barrington on the Green to Trace Crossings/ Simmons/Hoover ► Chace Lake to Trace Crossings/Simmons/Hoover ► Quail Run to Rocky Ridge ► Southlake to Rocky Ridge ► Valley Station to Rocky Ridge

SCHOOLS

CONTINUED from page A1 jumped right into the middle of the quagmire when she agreed to take the top job for the 10th largest school district in the state last year. It’s not just that Murphy believe Hoover needs to rezone children to make better use of unused classroom space in certain schools and free up space for more children in high-growth areas. Hoover doesn’t have a choice, she said. “There are no other options. This school district will be rezoned,” Murphy told parents at a recent community feedback meeting at Hunter Street Baptist Church.

DESEGREGATION COURT CASE

The Hoover school district is part of a decadesold federal desegregation court case, and U.S. District Judge Madeline Haikala is reviewing whether Hoover is complying with the mandates spelled out many years ago by the federal court. The general consensus is that Hoover’s current attendance zones disproportionately negatively impact minority and low-income students, particularly those in apartments, by making them travel farther to get to and from school. In years past, the federal court and U.S. Department of Justice were OK with Hoover shifting apartment complexes with higher concentrations of minority and lower-income students to schools farther away from their homes in order to better balance racial numbers at Hoover’s schools, Murphy said. But the attitude has changed, and that is no longer deemed acceptable, she said. So Hoover officials are trying to come up with their own plan that moves students back closer to their homes instead of having the federal court craft a rezoning plan for Hoover. And Hoover officials join the court in wanting to make sure minority students are treated fairly, the superintendent said. “We love every child,” whether they come from a house or an apartment, whether they are white or black,” Murphy said. “When they come to us, they’re ours.” School officials have said about 2,500 students would be shifted to new school zones

► Waterford Landing to Trace Crossings/Simmons/ Hoover ► Waterford Place to Trace Crossings/Simmons/ Hoover

ROCKY RIDGE (134 KIDS REZONED)

► Park at Deerfield Glen to Green Valley/Simmons/ Hoover ► Wildwood to Green Valley/Simmons/Hoover ► Wood Gardens to Green Valley/Simmons/Hoover SOUTH SHADES CREST (197 KIDS REZONED) ► Falls & Woods of Hoover to Trace Crossings/Simmons ► Hampton Park to Trace Crossings/Simmons ► Park at Galleria to Trace Crossings/Simmons ► Renaissance at Gall. Woods to Trace Crossings/

under Murphy’s proposal. Plus, more than 240 students in grades 2 and 3 at South Shades Crest Elementary would be moved to Brock’s Gap, which would be converted from a school for grades 5-6 to a school for grades 3-5. That puts the total number of children who could be moved to a different school at 2,763. However, that number likely will be less because Murphy has proposed to allow all students in grades 8-11 to be “grandfathered” into their current high school and to let all students in grades 1, 4 and 7 remain at their current school for one more year as well. Any parents who elect the “grandfathering” option for their children would not be provided school bus transportation.

UPROOTING STUDENTS

When you move some students closer to their homes, other students have to be uprooted to make room for them. That upsets many people who have made big investments in homes, often times based on school zones. Shane Solomon, a parent from The Preserve, said he and his family purposefully bought a home within half a mile from Gwin so their children could walk to school. Under the rezoning proposal, they’ll have to travel 3.8 miles and cross a busy highway — John Hawkins Parkway — to get to Trace Crossings, he said. The federal court may not want apartment complexes to be treated as “enclaves” that are moved to a school farther away, but “we don’t want that for our kids either,” Solomon said. Christi Finn, a mother of two from The Preserve, said Trace Crossings sounds like a wonderful school, “but we love Gwin.” Gwin already is a diverse school, with higher percentages of black and Hispanic students than the general population, Finn said. Gwin parents also expressed concerns that the rezoning proposal would increase the percentage of students there from low-income families from 28 percent to 39 percent. Parents said they welcome the children, but it makes it harder for parents to raise money to meet needs at the school, and they worry that needs will go unmet. Murphy said the school district is committed to providing more resources for schools with higher concentrations of students in poverty.

Simmons

TRACE CROSSINGS (310 KIDS REZONED)

► Creekside to SSC K-2 and Brock's Gap 3-5 ► Lake Trace to SSC K-2 and Brock's Gap 3-5 ► North Ridge to SSC K-2 and Brock's Gap 3-5 ► Park at Hoover to Gwin ► Riverchase Landing to Riverchase/Berry/Spain Park ► Scout Creek to SSC K-2 and Brock's Gap 3-5

BROCK'S GAP INTERMEDIATE (136 KIDS REZONED) ► Berry Middle (125 kids rezoned) ► Bumpus Middle (187 kids rezoned) ► Simmons Middle (46 kids rezoned) ► Hoover High (185 kids rezoned) ► Spain Park High (175 kids rezoned)

“We all know it costs more money to educate some children than others,” Murphy said. That’s particularly true for students from low-income families that often don’t have the same advantages and educational opportunities, she said.

SPLITTING UP COMMUNITIES

Residents in Trace Crossings seem equally upset about the rezoning proposal, pleading with Murphy in community meetings to not tear up the fabric of their school so much. Seventy-two percent of the 431 students at Trace Crossings would be moved to a new school next year because of the rezoning proposal, unless some took advantage of the 1-year “grandfathering” plan. Shilpa Gaggar, treasurer of the Trace Crossings Elementary Parent Teacher Organization, said Trace Crossings was designed to be an all-inclusive neighborhood, complete with single-family homes, apartments, schools, churches, doctors, dentists and businesses all in the same community. Parents don’t think their community should be torn apart, she said. “Deer Valley still goes to Deer Valley Elementary. Riverchase still goes to Riverchase Elementary, and Greystone still goes to Greystone Elementary,” Gaggar said. “But the majority of Trace Crossings will no longer go to Trace Crossings Elementary … We don’t feel it benefits our community or our school.” Under the rezoning proposal, Trace Crossings also would be the only elementary school where students would be split apart to go to two different middle schools — Simmons and Bumpus. Parents said that’s not fair or beneficial to students. If the rezoning proposal is approved as is, Trace Crossings would only be 71 percent full, parents noted. They don’t believe children in the Trace Crossings community should be forced to leave when there is still room at the school. Former Hoover Councilman Jody Patterson, a home builder who built his home in Trace Crossings 22 years ago, said Trace Crossings was planned, marketed and developed as a package, complete with schools. U.S. Steel, the landowner behind the Trace Crossings development, donated the 40 acres for Trace Crossings

Elementary with the full understanding that the school would be for the Trace Crossings community, Patterson said. “I think it’s a terrible idea to mess with your neighborhood schools,” Patterson said.

CITY FUNDING OF SCHOOLS

Trisha Crain, a longtime resident of the Green Valley community, said Hoover City Schools would not be having so many troubles now if the Hoover City Council in 2004 had not fundamentally changed the process for funding Hoover schools. For fiscal 2005, the council voted to quit providing 16 percent of the city’s sales tax revenues to the schools each year. That decision, plus a smaller previous funding cut, cost the Hoover school system $78 million over the past 14 years, city records show. Crain said that money could have been used to build a new elementary school in Ross Bridge and a third high school. The council in December voted to increase its financial support for schools by about $1.3 million or $1.5 million a year, but the city is still giving much less to schools than it once did. Even with increased funding approved in December, the city’s contribution to schools in fiscal 2016 will be nearly $8.1 million less than it would have been under the original formula. “There are a lot of people to blame for us being hamstrung for the last 12 years,” Crain said. Hoover residents have a chance in this year’s municipal election to make sure their local government is supporting the growth it has allowed, she said.

THE NEXT STEPS

School officials held five meetings to get community feedback on Murphy’s rezoning proposal, and Murphy said she will take the input from those meetings and other community feedback to craft a final recommendation to the Hoover school board around March 7. If a final proposal is approved, it will be submitted to the federal court for approval around March 14, she said. The goal is to get a rezoning plan approved for the 2016-17 school year, she said.

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • A31

Left: Following 34-year-old Mike Gilotti’s murder, Lake Cyrus residents put American flags around the neighborhood’s entrance. Photos by Erica Techo. Above: Will Posey has a closed-circuit video surveillance system, alarm system and guns at his Lake Cyrus home for increased security.

LAKE CYRUS

CONTINUED from page A1 “but until that happens, I wanted something additional.” Will and Lauren Posey also chose to take extra security steps after Gilotti’s death. They have lived in Lake Cyrus for six months and pre-wired their home for closed-circuit security cameras during construction, but Lauren Posey said Gilotti’s death and the birth of their son led them to re-examine their options. “When something so tragic happens so close, it causes you to re-evaluate or re-assess what you have going on,” she said. “The cameras were always nice to have, but we kind of stepped up the system down there since that happened.” The Poseys now have battery backup on their security system, have installed an alarm system and receive text message alerts when a camera is activated. Lighting has also been a key resource,

Will Posey said. They have LED lights in all of their outdoor fixtures and have repositioned them to point outward on their street and the side of their home, he said. “There’s been a big move in the neighborhood to everyone to keep their lights on all the time,” Lauren Posey said. Osman, even though his family has three types of security, sees a neighborhood-wide effort as a necessary next step. While surveillance cameras could help catch criminals, Osman said they also run the risk of being damaged and include a need for someone to monitor the cameras. A gate or private security service would be his preferred plan. “I think everyone is on the same page related to the gates,” Osman said. “We all believe the gates need to be posted. That would be the first step.” Right now, Osman said the neighborhood has too many exit and entrance points. Installing a gate at the back entrance would eliminate one of those points, while keeping an entrance open for people driving to and from Brock’s Gap

Elementary, he said. Posey said the gates could also deter criminals coming from Bessemer. Although gates and private security could be costly options, Will Posey said with around 1,000 homes in Lake Cyrus, they are options the neighborhood could afford. “I think it’s something everyone is willing to spend,” he said. An economical option residents are working toward in the meantime is a neighborhood watch. Officer Brian Hale with the Hoover Police Department has communicated with the neighborhood about establishing a program since the Jan. 6 homeowners association meeting. “Unfortunately it’s taken a tragedy like that [Gilotti’s death] maybe for something positive to come out of it, and that is neighbors wanting to know other neighbors,” Hale said. A neighborhood watch is a cheap, if not cost-free, option because it involves increased communication rather than new technology or fixtures, Hale said.

“As far as the economic benefit, you can spend thousands of dollars on all kinds of crime prevention tools, but if you get down to old-fashioned knowing who your neighbors are, that doesn’t cost anything,” he said. Will Posey said even with an official neighborhood watch, their first line of defense will continue to be their immediate neighbors. They stay in touch when leaving town or having work done on their homes, and inform each other of potentially suspicious activity. “That’s the biggest thing,” he said. “I think that’s really a neighborhood watch within itself, without the signs.” Posey said he has seen increased communication between neighbors as well as extra precautions by individuals. While those are positive steps from a tragic event, he said it is important to continue those changes. “It’s already moving out of their minds,” he said. “So people need to remember to keep turning their lights on.”

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663-6426 • 2591 Pelham Parkway • Pelham, AL 35124 • Hrs: 9 -5p M-Sat Starnes Publications March 2016

Sun

School House B12 Events B19 Summer Camp Guide B21

Sports

Real Estate B26 Calendar B27

SECTION

B MARCH 2016

SWEET 3-PEAT Hoover girls win indoor track title by hefty margin

By SAM CHANDLER Entering the indoor track and ﬁeld season, Hoover head coach Devon Hind knew the key to a third consecutive state title rested in the status of his team’s health. As long as the Hoover girls, led by a quartet of past state champions, remained injury-free, a three-peat seemed close to a guarantee. Fit, fast and primed to compete, the Bucs left nothing to chance at the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s State Indoor Track and Field Championships, held Feb. 5-6, at the Birmingham CrossPlex, storming to the Class 7A state title by a 43-point margin. “Everybody ran as well or competed as well as they have all year and most of them competed better, so I have no complaints,” Hind said. “The girls were supposed to win; they won huge, and that’s what they’re supposed to do.” Propelled by stellar performances from Brittley Humphrey, Presley Weems, Sydney Steely, Caitlyn Little and Genesis Jones, Hoover totaled 126 points, the highest girls team score regardless of classiﬁcation.

See CHAMPIONSHIP | page B17

The Hoover High School girls indoor track and ﬁeld team won their third straight state championship Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Photo by Sam Chandler.

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B2 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2016

HANNAH AMIDON

GOING TO THE

NEXT LEVEL N By KYLE PARMLEY

▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Midﬁelder ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

Savannah College of Art and Design ▶ LOCATION: Savannah, Georgia ▶ MASCOT: Bees

AUSTIN APEL

ational Signing Day marked another banner year of athletics for Hoover City Schools, as Hoover and Spain Park will combine to send over 35 student-athletes to the next level to pursue academics plus athletics. Here’s a proﬁle of each student-athlete, sorted by high school:

▶ SPORT: Track and ﬁeld ▶ POSITION: N/A ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: University of Montevallo ▶ LOCATION: Montevallo, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Falcons

Photos by Kyle Parmley and Frank Couch.

TONY BENNETT

TEMARCUS BRYANT ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive back ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive back ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

Cumberland University ▶ LOCATION: Lebanon, Tennessee ▶ MASCOT: Phoenix

SYDNEY DeJOHN

QUINCY COX

▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Forward ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Tight end ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

Spring Hill College

Tuskegee University ▶ LOCATION: Tuskegee, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Golden Tigers

NICK ELDRIDGE

▶ LOCATION: Mobile, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Badgers

EVAN FRANKLIN ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Offensive line ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Track and ﬁeld ▶ POSITION: N/A ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ LOCATION: Kennesaw,

▶ LOCATION: Montevallo,

▶ MASCOT: Owls

▶ MASCOT: Falcons

Kennesaw State University Georgia

P.J. HALL

University of Montevallo Alabama

MALACHI HERRON ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Cornerback ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

Tulane University ▶ LOCATION: New Orleans, Louisiana ▶ MASCOT: Green Wave

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Cornerback ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Mississippi College ▶ LOCATION: Jackson, Mississippi ▶ MASCOT: Choctaws

HooverSun.com

March 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ B3

B4 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

BRITTLEY HUMPHREY

KENDRA LANGHAM

▶ SPORT: Track and ﬁeld ▶ POSITION: N/A ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Basketball ▶ POSITION: Forward ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ LOCATION: Baton Rouge,

▶ LOCATION: Mobile, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Rams

Louisiana State University

University of Mobile

Louisiana

▶ MASCOT: Tigers

ALI LOWE

SHELBY LOWERY ▶ SPORT: Volleyball ▶ POSITION: Middle ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ POSITION: Second base/Outﬁeld ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

University of Alabama in Huntsville ▶ MASCOT: Chargers

JAILYN MADDOX

University of Montevallo

▶ LOCATION: Montevallo, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Falcons

BRADEN McCOMBS ▶ SPORT: Basketball ▶ POSITION: Guard ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Lacrosse ▶ POSITION: Midﬁelder ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

Virginia Commonwealth University ▶ LOCATION: Richmond, Virginia ▶ MASCOT: Rams

JEREMIAH MOON

Birmingham-Southern College ▶ MASCOT: Panthers

BRIANA MORRIS ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Linebacker ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Forward ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ LOCATION: Gainesville,

▶ LOCATION: Mobile, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Jaguars

University of Florida

University of South Alabama

Florida

▶ MASCOT: Gators

TAURES PAYNE

ABBY GRACE PRAYTOR ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive tackle ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: North-

▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ POSITION: First base/pitcher ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

west Mississippi Community College ▶ LOCATION: Senatobia, Mississippi ▶ MASCOT: Rangers

CAROLINE SANFORD

Spring Hill College ▶ LOCATION: Mobile, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Badgers

ANDREW SHELTON

▶ SPORT: Volleyball ▶ POSITION: Middle blocker ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Track and ﬁeld ▶ POSITION: N/A ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

University of Alabama in Huntsville ▶ MASCOT: Chargers

RUBIN STINSON

University of Montevallo ▶ LOCATION: Montevallo, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Falcons

PRESLEY WEEMS ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Safety ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

University of the Cumberlands ▶ LOCATION: Williamsburg, Kentucky ▶ MASCOT: Patriots

▶ SPORT: Track and ﬁeld ▶ POSITION: N/A ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Samford University ▶ MASCOT: Bulldogs

HooverSun.com

March 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ B5

B6 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

PAYTON BISSO

MARKELL CLARK ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Forward ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive tackle ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ LOCATION: Dahlonega,

▶ LOCATION: Annapolis,

▶ MASCOT: Nighthawks

▶ MASCOT: Midshipmen

University of North Georgia

United States Naval Academy

Georgia

DESTINI ENGLAND

Maryland

HAYDEN FREEMAN

▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ POSITION: Inﬁelder ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Baseball ▶ POSITION: Outﬁelder ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

University of Alabama at Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Blazers

CHESTER HUTCHERSON

Florida Southwestern State College ▶ LOCATION: Fort Myers, Florida ▶ MASCOT: Buccaneers

THOMAS LUTHER ▶ SPORT: Golf ▶ POSITION: N/A ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Linebacker ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

University of North Alabama

Tuskegee University ▶ LOCATION: Tuskegee, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Golden Tigers

WADE STREETER

▶ LOCATION: Florence, Alabama

▶ MASCOT: Lions

TYLER SUMPTER ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Running back ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Kicker/punter ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ LOCATION: Fairﬁeld, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Golden Bears

▶ LOCATION: Troy, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Trojans

Miles College

JONAH TIBBS

Troy University

KYNADI TIPLER ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive line ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ POSITION: Third base ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

▶ LOCATION: Greenville,

▶ LOCATION: Dover, Delaware ▶ MASCOT: Hornets

Furman University

Delaware State University

South Carolina

▶ MASCOT: Paladins

CHASE YOUNG

PERRY YOUNG ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Cornerback ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Lindsey Wilson College ▶ LOCATION: Columbia, Kentucky ▶ MASCOT: Blue Raiders

▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Linebacker ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:

University of Cincinnati ▶ LOCATION: Cincinnati, Ohio ▶ MASCOT: Bearcats

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • B7

Local trio part of groundbreaking UAH team Colton Nall, a freshman at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, is a product of Spain Park and is excited to play close to home with the Chargers. Photo courtesy of UAH men’s lacrosse.

By STEVE IRVINE For the next few months, winning lacrosse games is the priority for a trio of local products playing for the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Along the way, they also get a chance to be part of a special team. UAH is the first university in Alabama to play college lacrosse at the Division I or Division II level. The Chargers are competing in Division II, and the program’s first roster includes Spain Park High products Conner Tinney and Colton Nall and Oak Mountain High graduate Jack Bishop. They are part of a young roster that includes 21 freshmen, two sophomores and a junior. Nall and Bishop are freshmen, and Tinney is a sophomore transfer from Mount Union University, a Division III participant in Ohio. The first game for the program was Feb. 13 at Sewanee. Connor McGowan, who was part of a startup program at Transylvania University as assistant coach and also served two terms as an assistant coach at Birmingham-Southern College, was hired to serve as the Chargers’ first lacrosse head coach. He chose to build a foundation with the young roster. “They knew coming in that there would be a lot of ups and downs going through it, a bit of a roller coaster,” McGowan said. “At the same time, coming in and starting in a program is not something you can ever do again. You could score 100 goals or win 100 games or whatever it may be, but you can never be part of a first year program again. “For these guys to commit to us and come here and be here to build something is something they’ll never be able to change. When we look back 50 years from now, these guys are going to be on that first picture of that first roster ever. I couldn’t be more proud of these guys and excited going into the season with them.” McGowan largely built his roster with players from the Southeast, with seven players from either the Birmingham metro area or Huntsville as home. While lacrosse is not yet a varsity sport

“

For these guys to commit to us and come here and be here to build something is something they’ll never be able to change. When we look back 50 years from now, these guys are going to be on that first picture of that first roster ever.

”

CONNOR MCGOWAN

in Alabama, the youth and high school programs in those areas are the strongest in the state. Spain Park and Hoover have traditionally fielded the strongest Division I high school teams in the state. “The biggest thing was getting the word out in Birmingham and Huntsville, where lacrosse is kind of the hotbeds in the state, and moving out from there,” McGowan said. “That was very helpful, having been at BSC before, and kind of knowing the lay of the land, especially in Birmingham, knowing about Spain Park, Oak Mountain, Hoover, those types of schools that have been successful as of late here in the state.” Nall, a 5-foot-11 long stick midfielder, who helped Spain Park win the Division I state title last spring, said the addition of lacrosse at UAH was “perfect timing.” “I started getting recruited really late,” said

Nall, who began playing lacrosse in the seventh grade. “The timing was a blessing, especially at this school, because they have engineering, which I intend to major in. It was a really good thing for me.” Bishop, a 5-foot-11 attackman, almost came to UAH directly out of high school. Tinney, a 6-foot-1 defenseman, chose to begin his college career at Mount Union but jumped at the opportunity to come back closer to home. “The distance definitely affected me, just being so far away from home,” Tinney said. “Like the old saying, there is no place like home and it’s just amazing to be back. I liked Mount Union but I missed my family and the people around me.” The only other varsity college lacrosse options in the state are Birmingham-Southern and Huntington College, which both are non-scholarship Division III programs. Many schools in the state,

including Alabama and Auburn, field club programs. As a Division II program, UAH can give up to 10.8 scholarships in men’s lacrosse and 9.9 scholarships in a women’s lacrosse program that also begins this season. McGowan hasn’t set any recruiting boundaries — his first roster includes players from Nebraska, New York, Maryland, Nevada and California — but players from this area will certainly get a look. “The biggest thing that stands out is the athleticism of the guys in Alabama,” McGowan said. “They match up with anybody in the country athletically. As the sport grows, there are starting to be more coaches. That’s the biggest piece is guys playing at the next level and then coming back and giving back to the community. As that happens, you just see guys getting better and better.” Nall and Tinney each said they’ve seen improvement in skill level and numbers in the Birmingham metro area since they first picked up a lacrosse stick. “It’s definitely increased,” Nall said. “I know from playing travel ball, we got a little bit better each year. This state got better and there was always a lot more competition each year.”

B8 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Nixon’s quest to best Spain Park runner finds his stride in mid-distance event By SAM CHANDLER

Spain Park High School’s Daniel Nixon dashed to a second individual Class 7A 800-meter title at the Birmingham CrossPlex on Feb. 5. Photo by Sam Chandler.

As he surged in to the bell lap of the Class 7A 800-meter indoor state final on Feb. 5, Spain Park senior Daniel Nixon faced a season-defining decision. Trailing his fiercest competitor, Mountain Brook’s Drew Williams, by a stride’s length with only 200 meters to go, he could either make his move or stay settled in second. To Nixon, the defending 800 state champion, the choice was clear. After months of preparation—early morning runs, grueling interval sessions, core and weight workouts—he had simply worked too hard to come this far and lose. “I knew that was my moment to go, so I had to go get it,” Nixon said. Mission accomplished. With fluid arm swing and powerful stride, Nixon motored down the backstretch, leaned into the final curve and unleashed a furious kick in the closing 50 meters, holding off Williams by a tenth of a second to claim his second individual state title. What’s more, his blistering time of 1 minute, 55.51 seconds set a new state meet record and represented the fastest mark of the indoor season by an Alabama prep runner. “I just told myself this is it. This is my last race indoors [in my] senior year at Spain Park High School, running in high school, so I knew that I had to leave it all on the track,” Nixon said. For someone who finished dead last in his first state meet appearance in 2014, the progression

“

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • B9

I just told myself this is it. This is my last race indoors [in my] senior year at Spain Park High School, running in high school, so I knew that I had to leave it all on the track.

has come full circle—twice. As a middle schooler at John Herbert Phillips Academy in downtown Birmingham, Nixon’s mid-distance career originally began like so many others at the youth level. As punishment for dropping the baton in a relay, Nixon’s coach relegated him to running an 800. “It didn’t feel too good, but it wasn’t the worst,” Nixon said. Although the blunder-induced penalty was an isolated occurrence, it gave Nixon his first taste of what would eventually become his signature race. Triggered by his family’s move to the Hoover area following eighth grade, Nixon enrolled at Spain Park in the fall of 2012 for the start of his freshman year, joining the football, basketball and track teams upon his arrival. A tri-sport athlete as a ninth-grader and 10th-grader, he primarily focused on the sprints during outdoor track season, further developing his innate speed. That’s until, during the spring of his sophomore campaign, head track and field coach Michael Zelwak urged Nixon to attempt an 800. In his first time running the event since middle school, he notched a time of 2:03.34, placing ninth against some of the state’s top competition at the Vestavia Hills King of the Mountain Invitational. “I was like, ‘Whoa, that’s pretty good,’ especially coming off of doing sprinting things and not even doing what everybody else in my area had been doing,” Nixon said.

”

DANIEL NIXON

Instantly converted, Nixon shifted his energy and attention to the mid-distance events. A testament to his talent, he sealed a trip to Gulf Shores less than two months later, qualifying for the Class 6A state meet. His trip to the coast, however, didn’t go as planned. Nixon’s relative inexperience revealing itself, he crossed the line in 23rd place to finish dead last. “I had no clue what was going on down there, but I used that and trained hard the whole next season,” Nixon said. After deciding to step away from football and basketball prior to his junior year in order to fully pursue track, Nixon’s investment paid off. Following a third-place finish in the 800 at the 2015 7A indoor state meet, he roared to a statement-making victory at last spring’s outdoor state championship. Presented with a shot at redemption, Nixon rolled to a time of 1:54.49, capturing his inaugural state title. “I just knew I had to go out there and trust God and do the best I could,” Nixon said. “It felt great.” Still navigating the college recruitment process, Nixon, backed by his faith, family and coach, will be training for a third straight crown in his premier event this spring. “If he continues to work hard and does what’s asked of him and obviously can stay injury-free, I think he’s capable of going low-1:50s, no question,” Zelwak said. “He has that ability.”

Spain Park’s Daniel Nixon, flanked by Mountain Brook’s Griffin Riley, left, and Drew Williams, right, earned top spot on the podium. Photo by Sam Chandler.

B10 • March 2016

Hoover Sun When it comes to who is the better fisherman between the two brothers, they both agree that although he’s three years younger, Anthony, right, takes the title. Photos by Frank Couch.

Gone fishing Hoover High brothers qualify for upcoming bass fishing state championship By TARA MASSOULEH Joe and Anthony Wehby have caught over 3,500 fish in their lifetime, but it only took three to send the Hoover High School bass fishing team to the state championship. Though tournament rules allow each team to weigh up to five fish, Joe said three were all he and his brother needed. “We don’t go to just fill out a five-fish limit like most other kids,” Joe said. “When we go, we go to catch quality fish.” The brothers’ three fish, weighing in at 6½ pounds, earned them a spot as the first of many Hoover High pairs projected to qualify for the Alabama Bass Nation High School Championship scheduled for June 9-10 at Wheeler Lake in Decatur. As members of the Hoover bass fishing team, Joe and Anthony join 35 other Hoover High anglers for semimonthly meetings to discuss all things bass fishing and prepare for upcoming tournaments. Joe, now a senior, joined the team after hearing an announcement on the intercom as a freshman. This is the first year he has been able to compete alongside his brother Anthony, who is a freshman. Though the two are competing as a team for the first time, they’ve been fishing together since they were kids growing up in Oklahoma, where they fished for bluegill with their dad, uncle and grandfather. For them, fishing is less about competing and more about enjoying the great outdoors. Joe said while he’s seen other anglers get bent out of shape trying to catch the biggest fish, he cares more about having fun. “I mean I want to do good,” he said. “But I also just like to go out there, enjoy God’s creation and have a good time. Whether we go out there and catch 25 or 30 fish or zero, it’s still always a good time being able to get away.” Joe and Anthony said the key to successful fishing comes through having three main

characteristics: patience, confidence and a good sense of humor. For Anthony, having confidence when handling equipment and reeling in fish is extremely important, and for Joe, confidence goes even further. “If you go out there and you’re like, ‘I’m not going to catch anything,’ you’re not going to be determined enough to pick up your rod and make thousands of casts trying to get those five bites you need to win a tournament,” Joe said. When it comes to who is the better fisherman between the two brothers, they both agree that although he’s three years younger, Anthony takes the title. Joe contends that some of Anthony’s success has been luck and that he’s not far behind. Listening to the two talk about their love for recreational fishing, it’s easy to forget that they’re not just two high school kids casting a couple lines. It takes something as simple as asking what type of bait they use to be reminded of their high level of expertise. They describe the Texas rig style bait (where bait is attached to weight and dragged along the lake floor) plus jigs, spinners and crankbaits with as much as ease as if they’re explaining how to pour a bowl of cereal. Vance Traffanstedt, whose son Drew has been competing on the team since the seventh grade, is one of the team’s sponsors. He said the Wehbys have represented the team well with several top 25 and top 10 finishes already this fall. “They’re two kids that really know what they’re doing, and they’re just an asset to the team,” he said. On tournament days, the business of preparing is no child’s play. The brothers generally wake up around 2:30 a.m. to load their equipment, prepare their rods and hit the road, only stopping for breakfast before arriving at the tournament location by 4:30 or 5 a.m. The two then set about prepping their boat by making sure the plug is in, taking all the scraps out and picking up their boat number from officials. At the first hint of daylight, somewhere between 6:30 and 7 a.m., the boys recite the

Brothers Anthony Wehby, at left, and Joe Wehby will compete as one of the teams for Hoover High School in the Alabama Bass Fishing State Championship in Decatur in June.

Pledge of Allegiance with tournament officials and then wait for their number to be called. Then they finally set off with their father Richard Wehby, their tournament-required boat captain, to fish until their scheduled weigh-in time around 2:30 p.m. The boys’ strategy for each tournament is to pre-fish the lake a few days before to get a feel for potential patterns in where the fish are or what they’re eating. They mark three to four main spots on their fish finder and rotate between those spots on tournament days. After seven or eight hours on the water, the boys come in to weigh their fish, an event which they said draws quite a crowd. Teams set up tents and plenty of food around the weigh-in stage. Parents and supporters serve as the audience for the anglers who take turns weighing their fish on stage while answering questions about strategies they used to catch their fish. As for the state championship tournament, Joe

and Anthony have a couple of goals in mind. The first, they said, is obviously to win, especially over Hayden High School, one of the superpower teams competing in high school bass fishing. But more than that, Joe and Anthony said they’re looking to earn some respect for Hoover’s team. “We’re gradually getting better, so if we were to win one of those big tournaments, that would be a big deal as being a part of Hoover’s fishing team,” Joe said. A win could also mean the beginnings of a professional bass fishing career for the boys. A title like state champions, they said, is enough to get noticed by sponsors, who are essential when working up to a professional fishing career. For now, the two are happy continuing to fish together, whether at a big weekend tournament or neighborhood pond after school. “I’m going to fish ’til I can’t fish no more,” Joe said. “Just because I enjoy it that much.”

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • B11

Freshman Tucker Contorno stepped up and was an important piece in Spain Park’s championship run. Photo by Frank Couch.

Jags boys win inaugural state bowling title By KYLE PARMLEY The Spain Park boys bowling team will forever be the first team to win an AHSAA State Boys Bowling Championship, as the Jags took home the title on Jan. 30. “We just set the standard,” coach Stephen Hobbs said. The state tournament was a two-day event at Oak Mountain Lanes in Pelham. Teams competed on the first day for seeding – in which Spain Park earned the No. 2 seed – before competing in a 16-team bracket format on the second day. Spain Park defeated Fairhope, Benjamin Russell, Mary G. Montgomery, and Stanhope-Elmore to win the title in bracket play. Sophomore Jalen Johnson scored an average

of 194 in the state tourney, and had the highest overall average on the team for the entire season. Andrew Harris led the team with a 198 average in the tournament, and Tucker Contorno is a freshman who stepped up in a big way as well. Other members of the team are John Gotham, James Waller, Ryan Caraway, Dan Charles, Alex Culwell, Brady Cooper, Devin Dowdle, and Wyatt Lumsden. “We have eight guys on the varsity team and they all contributed,” Hobbs said. “They all bowled well when they needed to.” The Jags finished the season with a 20-1 overall record in dual matches, with the lone loss coming in the first match of the season. The girls team fell to Scottsboro in the second round of the state tournament.

Local cheerleaders head to world championships

The ACE Warriors cheerleading team is heading to the U.S. All Star Federation’s Cheerleading Worlds competition. Photo courtesy of TJ Cunningham.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL The ACE Cheer Company of Birmingham, a group of elite middle and high school cheerleaders across the state of Alabama, have earned their ticket to the US All Star Federation’s Cheerleading Worlds competition in April. The ACE Warriors are a team of 30, including Hoover High students Erica Knight, Mell Kleman, Carlee Hopping and Tucker Hendrix and Spain Park students Abby Anglin and Victoria Whitten. Berry Middle students Haleigh Carlton and Avery Brune also made the team. They won their bid to the world competition by winning the Spirit Brands Red Fox Championship in January and ranking Grand Champions among all Worlds-eligible cheerleading teams in the Southeast. The Warriors have competed in

the Worlds every year since 2004. TJ Cunningham, who works with the Warriors, said the USASF Worlds are exclusively open to Senior Level 5 cheerleaders, the highest ranking for high school athletes. Reaching that level requires mastery of difficult stunts, tumbling, pyramids and overall athleticism. “It is truly an amazing competition to watch and an honor for the athletes competing,” Cunningham said. The Warriors competed in the Cheersport Nationals and National Cheerleaders Association Nationals in February, and will show their talents again at the Universal Cheerleaders Association Nationals on March 12-13. Then they head to Orlando to compete against more than 10,000 cheerleaders and dancers at the USASF Worlds on April 23-25 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Disney World.

B12 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

School House Alumnus builds site to help incarcerated individuals’ families By ERICA TECHO While pursuing his Ph.D. in electrical engineering at Vanderbilt University, Zachary Diggins decided to use his computer skills to give back. Diggins, a 2008 graduate of Hoover High School, majored in electrical engineering and minored in computer science during his undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt. While he studied the effects of gamma radiation on robots for his doctorate, Diggins looked for a way to apply his hobby of web design. “I’ve been doing web design stuff as a hobby for probably five or six years, and I was looking for a bigger project to do,” Diggins said. Through VolunteerMatch.org, a web service that connects potential volunteers with projects, Diggins connected with Companions Journeying Together. Companions Journeying Together is a Chicago-based nonprofit that works with incarcerated individuals and their families. Diggins worked on the nonprofit’s Aunt Mary’s Storybook Program, which provides recordings of incarcerated parents reading to their children. “I just think it’s a really great organization, and I think the work that they do is really important — keeping families connected during periods of incarceration,” Diggins said. At this time, Companions Journeying Together burns CDs of the recordings and mails them to the children. Diggins, however, created a website to help streamline the process and

Get to know Zachary Diggins • HIGH SCHOOL: Hoover • GRADUATED: 2008 • WHAT HE’S DOING NOW: Ph.D. research on gamma radiation and its effects on robots; volunteering with Companions Journeying Together.

Hoover High alumnus Zachary Diggins took on a volunteer web designing project while pursuing a Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University. Photo courtesy of Heidi Hall/Vanderbilt University.

hopefully provide easier access. “For the families, it’s an upgrade because nowadays more people have access to the Internet or a smartphone than they have to a CD player,” Diggins said. Throughout the project, Diggins said, he enjoyed the chance to be creative with design and different administrative aspects. The process also saw a few changes in the plan for the web system. “I think the user

side is how we pictured it when we started, but the administrative side has grown a lot, in a good way,” Diggins said. In addition to building the interface where families can access recordings, Diggins added a few features to make access and distribution easier. The website, for example, automatically generates a letter that is sent out with the children’s books. This letter provides a login, so that

child can access the recording from any device connected to the Internet. The website also maintains an archive of the recordings, meaning the families do not have to worry about losing or scratching a CD. There is also an algorithm that allows Companions Journeying Together to keep track of the most popular books in the program, which Diggins said helps from an administrative point of view.

Right now, they are in the ﬁnal testing phases of the website, Diggins said, and it will soon be released. Diggins said he has enjoyed working with Companions Journeying Together and plans to continue helping with maintenance on the web system. The website, he hopes, will help further connect families. “I think it deﬁnitely breaks down some barriers in terms of access,” Diggins said. “It’s easy to do these things now with technology.” In addition to helping an organization, Diggins said the project helped him stay motivated. Sometimes barriers stop people from completing projects that are “for fun.” He said he would encourage anyone looking for that motivation or who are looking to apply a hobby, like he was. “If you partner with another organization, it encourages you to push through those obstacles,” Diggins said.

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HooverSun.com

March 2016 • B13

Hoover school board hires 2nd legal firm to take lead role By JON ANDERSON The Hoover school board has hired a new legal firm that board President Derrick Murphy says will transition to become the lead law firm for the district. The board chose the law firm of Bishop, Colvin, Johnson & Kent, which specializes in representing school boards, local governments and related agencies. Donald Sweeney with the law firm of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings has been Hoover’s school board attorney for many years and will continue to work with the district, but Bishop, Colvin, Johnson & Kent will transition into the lead role, Murphy said. The school board does not have concerns about Sweeney but wants to make sure it has another legal team in place for whenever Sweeney gets ready to retire, school board member Earl Cooper said. “This is not about Donald Sweeney,” Cooper said. “He has been so highly respected by so many people for so long. The guy’s an institution unto himself.” Murphy said Sweeney has served the Hoover school district well, “but moving forward, we want to make sure we have a firm for the long term.” Hoover schools Superintendent Kathy Murphy said Sweeney will continue to represent the school system on matters in which he is already involved, such as the system’s effort to redraw attendance zones and effort to get dismissed from a decades-old federal school desegregation court case. “There are just so many moving parts and

Attorney Donald Sweeney speaks to Hoover parents in a meeting about school rezoning at Brock’s Gap Intermediate School on Feb. 11. Photo by Jon Anderson.

pieces in our school district,” Kathy Murphy said. “The board has a lot of respect for Mr. Sweeney, but there’s so much work to do in our district.” The school board won’t be duplicating costs

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because the two firms will not be working on the same issues for the most part, she said. Board members said they chose the law firm of Bishop, Colvin, Johnson & Kent because it has an excellent reputation across the state. Cooper

said Hoover school officials have worked with the firm some in the past through the Alabama Association of School Boards, which is one of the firm’s clients. Carl Johnson, the longest-serving partner in the firm, said his firm is pleased to be able to work with the Hoover school board and school district. “Hoover’s a very dynamic community, growing,” Johnson said. “Obviously, the city of Hoover has high expectations of their board. We’re looking forward to helping the board meet those expectations.” Bishop, Colvin, Johnson & Kent’s other clients include the Alabama Department of Education, Jefferson County Board of Education, Birmingham Board of Education, Alabaster Board of Education, Pelham Board of Education, Anniston Board of Education, Calhoun County Board of Education and University of Montevallo. While Johnson has been the one attending school board meetings recently, other active attorneys in the firm include Burgin Kent, Whit Colvin, Claire Puckett, Melissa McKie, Robin Andrews, Steve Stine and Drew Morris. Sweeney was a partner in the firm when it was called Bishop, Sweeney & Colvin years ago, and Johnson said Sweeney served as kind of a mentor to him. “He got me involved in school law,” Johnson said. “You couldn’t have a better mentor, teacher and role model than him.” Sweeney declined to comment about the school board’s decision to hire a second legal firm, other than to say he has no plans to retire anytime soon.

B14 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Ofﬁcials check out innovative programs in Hoover schools By JON ANDERSON

Principal Connie Angstadt, left, and teacher Greg Hughes, right, stand with eighth-grader Darby Green, who won the Prince of Peace Geography Bee. Photo courtesy of Jill Spero.

Prince of Peace 8th-grader wins geography bee Prince of Peace Catholic School eighth-grader Darby Green won this year’s annual National Geographic Bee. Green was one of 170 students in the school’s preliminary competition, which was then narrowed to 10 ﬁnalists. After winning the school-level geography bee, Green will take a test to qualify for the state-level bee. The state-level competition will be held at Samford University in the spring. The statewide winner will move on to the National Geography Bee in Washington D.C. in May. The school-level bee was open to students in ﬁfth through eighth grade. Fifth grader Caris Gonzalez won second place and seventh grader Tyler Wittman won third. The National Geographic Bee is an annual contest sponsored by the National Geographic Society. It is open to fourth through eighth grade students. ‒ Submitted by Jill Spero.

State schools Superintendent Tommy Bice and several other officials with the Alabama Department of Education recently visited three Hoover schools to take a look at innovative programs and practices so they can be shared with other school systems. Bice and his entourage joined numerous Hoover school officials, Hoover Councilman Jack Wright and state Rep. David Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook, at Trace Crossings Elementary, Bumpus Middle and Hoover High. At Trace Crossings, they visited the Maker Space studio that gives students hands-on applications of engineering and robotics skills. They also observed Alabama’s current Elementary Teacher of the Year, Minnette Wiggins, as she worked with students using multisensory literacy strategies. At Bumpus Middle School, Hoover’s current Secondary Teacher of the Year, Vinny Chiaramonte, talked about how his students write computer programs to make Lego robots move the way they want them to. Most of the Lego robots were purchased with grant money from the Hoover City Schools Foundation, he said. The computer science students at Bumpus also use a Minecraft game where students can build almost anything to help learn computer programming skills. State and local officials also observed a math intervention program at Bumpus that uses a combination of group instruction and adaptive software to monitor the progress of students who need remediation. The tour then moved to Hoover High, where observers got to see biology teacher Paul McEwan working with students in a class that’s designed to get students

discussing and applying science more than just reading and listening to a teacher talk about it. The guests also visited Hoover High’s Engineering Academy, which has about 220 students working through curriculum designed to prepare them for college engineer- Bumpus Middle School students welcome state schools Superintendent Tommy Bice to their school as he and other ing classes. state officials came to view innovative programs to share Students in with the rest of the state on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016. Photo by the Engineering Jon Anderson. Academy start out by getting the math and science classes today at Hoover,” Bice said. “I think the they need as a base of knowledge and then most encouraging thing is how teachers expand into engineering classes designed have really embraced project-based learnto mirror the first two years of undergrad- ing. They’re functioning as facilitators of uate college work, academy director Mark the learning, and students are owning their Conner said. That includes hands-on appli- own learning.” cations in a lab that allows students to do There are some deep, inquiry-based lescomputer-controlled woodworking and met- sons happening, “and we want to share that alworking so they can actually touch what with the rest of the state,” Bice said. they design on the computer, Conner said. One common theme Bice said he noticed Upon leaving Hoover, Bice and state offi- among the three Hoover schools he visited cials went to visit a Maker Space classroom was the function of the teacher. at Irondale Middle School and another iniHe did not visit a single classroom where tiative at Irondale Community School. the teacher was standing at the front of the Hoover was the 10th school district that room, delivering the information to stustate officials have visited as part of their dents as they sat in rows of desks, he said. Innovation Celebration tour this school year, “I saw students doing real-world learning, Bice said. In all, state officials plan to visit at applying it to real-world projects and the least 24 school districts that have innovative teacher going around and asking … probinitiatives and then share those ideas with ing questions to make those students think schools across the state and replicate them and defend whatever answers they came up in places where they don’t exist. with. That’s real powerful, and that’s real “We’ve seen some remarkable things learning.”

HooverSun.com

The new normal

Hoover woman gleans life lesson from diagnosis

By SYDNEY CROMWELL At first, Alice Laurendine could easily explain away the downturn in her health. Backaches weren’t surprising, as she had already had two back surgeries. Weight gain and bloating could be easily explained away. Frequent fatigue? Well, Laurendine was in her 60s and had always been one to stay too busy. As the symptoms continued, the Hoover resident and retired Vestavia Hills educator began researching pancreatic, colon and other different types of cancer. But she was diagnosed in 2008 with the one thing she never even thought to look up: ovarian cancer. It seemed impossible – Laurendine had a hysterectomy and her ovaries removed 23 years ago. “I didn’t even think about ovarian cancer because I had my ovaries removed,” Laurendine said. “Maybe if I had, I’m not sure I would have accepted that thought anyway.” Laurendine ﬁrst began experiencing symptoms of cancer at age 67. When a day of severe abdominal pain made her unable to attend a football game or sleep, Laurendine’s husband took note. Around 4 a.m., he suggested they go to the emergency room. Laurendine is glad she didn’t argue. “If I had refused, I mean who knows what would have happened,” Laurendine said. At the emergency room, doctors found a cancerous mass where her ovaries would have been. Laurendine, her husband and daughter were all in disbelief when they found out. “You can have everything removed, you can have a complete hysterectomy. You have reduced the risk; you have not removed the risk. And that’s what happened to me,” Laurendine said. Surgery to remove the mass was quickly

March 2016 • B15

OVARIAN CANCER

22,000 estimated cases of ovarian cancer that will be diagnosed this year

1 IN 75 a woman’s risk of getting ovarian cancer in her lifetime

46%

survival rate over ﬁve years

Alice Laurendine, a former principal at Vestavia Hills Elementary West and one of the ﬁrst Vestavia Hills High School teachers, sits at her Hoover home. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

followed by a round of chemotherapy. Laurendine cycled between good days when she could drive and see people and bad days when she wouldn’t leave the house. She kept ﬂowers and cards all around her home for encouragement, but occasionally found herself crying in the kitchen at night because she couldn’t believe the diagnosis. “It was hard because I had cancer. I mean, the big C-word,” Laurendine said. “Cancer was something I knew nothing about.” Throughout the process, Laurendine said she couldn’t have kept up her spirits without faith and the support of her family and friends. This included her beautician, who took care of Laurendine’s hair at no charge as soon as it began to fall out from the chemo.

In the midst of doctor’s visits and tests, Laurendine went back to her education roots. “During that I had time to think. And I thought, ‘I’m supposed to do something with this.’ And I thought, ‘OK, awareness is my thing. I can teach people about awareness,’” Laurendine said. While she doesn’t make ovarian cancer the center of her life, Laurendine shares her story and answers questions when friends connect her with women diagnosed with ovarian cancer or their family members. She has a packet ready with information and questions to ask doctors, so others aren’t caught unprepared like she was. “You learn a lot. You learn that you’re vulnerable and that you don’t want anyone else to

SOURCE: AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, OVARIAN CANCER NATIONAL ALLIANCE

go through that, but you can’t feel sorry for yourself,” she said. However, she’s also careful about what she shares, so she doesn’t overwhelm women as they come to grips with their diagnosis. “It can scare somebody if they heard what you might be going through, might be too difﬁcult,” Laurendine said. “There are moments I look back and think, ‘How did I get through that?’” One of the valuable lessons Laurendine learned from her unlikely diagnosis was how to deal with enormous problems one day at a time. “That’s your life, so you can’t say ‘When this is over I’ll …’” Laurendine said. “You’ve got to think in terms of ‘This is the new normal for me, and we will deal with it today, and tomorrow we’ll deal with that then.’”

BE PREPARED FOR WINTER STORMS Ken Fine – Lineman, Power Delivery

Before the Storm

After the Storm

1. Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supply kit in your vehicle.

1. Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold but avoid driving when those conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog.

2. Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.

3. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. 4. Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.

2. Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task.

3. Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.

5. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.

CAUTION: Carbon Monoxide Kills • Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning device inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. • The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire. • Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.

In an emergency, call:

For more safety tips, visit AlabamaPower.com/stormsafety

1-800-888-APCO (2726)

As an Alabama Power customer, we want you to know we are prepared for the winter season. When a major storm hits, you can be assured our linemen will be on the job to quickly and safely restore your service. Meanwhile, there are things you can do to be better prepared for severe winter weather and its aftermath.

B16 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

In addition to his ham radio, Dave Cisco enjoys purchasing and restoring old radios, seen left, and has a workshop with various parts and works in progress. Right: Morse code used to be a required skill for amateur radio operators, and many hams continue to communicate using it. This is the modern Morse code keyer that Ken Harden uses. Photos by Sydney Cromwell.

The hams of Hoover Amateur radio operators find their niche with enthusiasts in Bluff Park By SYDNEY CROMWELL Some hobbies require a certain location. Fishing needs a lake, skiing needs a slope, and for amateur radio, you need a mountain. That’s why Dave Cisco, Ken Harden and Bill Davidson each bought a home in Bluff Park. They’re all amateur radio operators, often known as hams, and the high elevation gives them a better radio signal to talk across the city or across the world. “I regard it as either a dense neighborhood of hams or a neighborhood of dense hams,” joked Davidson, who is the president of the Birmingham Amateur Radio Club (BARC). Ham radio operators are licensed by the Federal Communications Commission to broadcast on certain airwaves under a unique call sign. Amateur radio often plays a role in disaster situations, enabling emergency personnel and humanitarian groups to communicate without telephones, electricity or Internet. However, many hams use their equipment to talk with other operators around the world. Many of the hams started young and have been on the air since Morse code was a requirement to get a ham license. Cisco was an eighth-grade student when he was introduced to “the best thing I ever did.” Harden started at 16, when his family moved and he met another operator who helped him get started. “It being a rural area of Mississippi and I really didn’t have any friends, and here was the whole world that I could talk to. It was just really intriguing,” Harden said. After a break to raise his children, Harden returned to the radio last year, 50 years since he began. Davidson, who has been a ham since 1969, pointed out that amateur radio still has an attraction for people today, from children to seniors. Plus, operators no longer have to learn Morse. “There are actually more ham radio operators now in the U.S. than there were before cellphones because it’s a different way of communicating. It’s an independent way, you know, you do this yourself,” Davidson said.

All three men have antennas in their backyards and Cisco, in addition to his active equipment, keeps shelves of historic radios, parts and projects in the basement of his home, including a clock from 1833 that he is restoring. He also keeps photo albums with thousands of QSL cards, which are sent between hams to officially acknowledge they made contact. Each card is different, containing the call sign and picture or design that the ham wants to represent himself or his country. Cisco has talked to someone in every country that currently exists, as well as a few that are no longer around, and he has the plaque on his wall to prove it. Some of those conversations were a brief hello and goodbye; others led to repeat conversations and a friendship between two people who have never seen each other’s faces. He has weekly radio conversations with four of his former marching bandmates from Shades Valley High School. “It has been especially wonderful to me since I retired because it keeps me busy,” Cisco said, looking through a book of QSL cards. “They are to me a real collection because they’re people I talked to.” “He’s spent a lot of hours down there on his radio,” Cisco’s wife, Celeste, agreed. Harden has 120 confirmed contacts around the world, though his unofficial count is over 190. When he started as a 16-year-old, Harden had to write down each contact in a logbook. Now, his computer tracks each call and can show him a map with dots scattered across the globe. “There’s just a great feeling of accomplishment. Without cellphones, without long-distance undersea cables or anything, I can send a signal from here to the other side of the world and actually talk to someone,” Harden said. “It’s given me the drive and the desire to, of course, stay active.” It can also be a learning experience. “You learn a lot of geography. I didn’t remember from high school there was even a country called Andorra,” Harden said. Every ham is looking for something different from the hobby. Cisco

Above: Dave Cisco sits in the room of his Bluff Park home dedicated to ham radio. His walls are covered in world maps, cards he’s received from fellow hams and certificates marking his radio achievements. Below: Ken Harden holds a vehicle tag with his amateur radio call sign, KI4R, at the desk where he can communicate through the radio to other hams around the world.

divides his interests between on-air conversations and the historic side of radio. Harden looks for fellow operators who want to talk for a while about their personal interests and life in their city or country. Davidson enjoys competing to make contacts in rare locations, such as when hams make “DXpeditions” to set up and communicate from remote islands or territories. “It’s the thrill of the hunt… not so much the conversation itself,” Davidson said. However, all hams know that their license comes with an element of community service. When bad weather strikes, Birmingham’s amateur operators are watching, reporting and ready to take their mobile

equipment into the field if needed. “We are the eyes and the ears all over the county,” Harden said. “Generally when there’s bad weather all the hams are up listening.” Cisco has provided emergency communications after floods and tornadoes, and the antenna behind his house can act as a repeater to strengthen radio signals coming from the valleys on either side of Bluff Park. Ham radio has been essential after natural disasters in many areas, including the Tuscaloosa tornado in 2011, and most operators participate in annual “field days” to test and improve their emergency situation response. Though ham radio is solely built around the voices of the operators, Davidson said sometimes hams

really want to “have an eyeball” on the people they’ve been talking to. On March 4 and 5, local amateur operators will gather at the Zamora Shrine Temple in Irondale for Hamfest, the BARC’s annual convention. This year’s Hamfest is focused on emergency communication improvement, but the convention also offers the chance to buy and sell radios and parts, learn something new and match a face with a call sign. After all, the whole point of ham radio is making connections with other people. “It actually brings the world closer together when you can comfortably talk to each other,” Cisco said. To learn more about amateur radio and the Birmingham Hamfest, visit w4cue.com.

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • B17

Shades Mountain Christian School senior Dylan Pausic heads into the ﬁnal lap of the Class 1A-3A 1,600-meter run at the state indoor track and ﬁeld championships Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Birmingham CrossPlex. Photo by Sam Chandler.

CHAMPIONSHIP

CONTINUED from page B1 Humphrey won the 60-meter hurdles (8.48 seconds) and placed second in both the 60-meter dash (7.80) and 400-meter dash (56.35). An LSU signee, she broke her own state meet and CrossPlex facility record in the 60 hurdles, bolting to a time of 8.47 in the prelims before clinching her fourth straight indoor event title in the ﬁnals. Little, Humphrey’s training partner, trailed her teammate closely in the short sprints, posting a runner-up finish in the 60-meter hurdles (8.71) and placing sixth in the

60-meter dash (7.95). In the mid-distance events, Weems and Steely combined to go one-two in the 800 meters, crossing the line in 2:13.19 and 2:16.86, respectively. As of Feb. 10, Weems’ sizzling time ranked seventh in the nation. A Samford signee, she also notched a ﬁfth-place ﬁnish in the 1,600 meters and, along with Steely, Ava Weems and Caroline Franklin, contributed to the team’s meet-record-breaking 4x800-meter relay (9:26.76). Worthy of mention, the Bucs 4x200-meter relay team of Ayana Eason, Camiya Knight, Adetola Koiki and Alexia Wilson posted a meet record (1:40.91) on its way to victory. Jones highlighted the team’s success in the

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field events, claiming a first-place finish in the high jump with a leap of 1.57 meters (5-2). On the boys side, Hoover battled to a runner-up finish, edging out Hewitt-Trussville in the meet’s final event. Trailing the Huskies by a half a point heading in to the 4x400-meter relay, Hoover fought to a fourth-place finish in 3:31.08 to seal the red trophy. “My kids just ran faster than we have all year. It’s unbelievable,” Hind said. Collectively, the Hoover boys were led by Tommy McDonough and Jacob Doak. McDonough recorded a pair of second-place finishes in the 1,600 (4:22.38) and 3,200 (9:35.64), while also anchoring the school-record-breaking 4x800 relay. With a time of 7:59.49, which ranked 11th nationally as of Feb. 10, McDonough, John Paul Rumore, Alex Leary and Joe Leventry dipped under the 42-year-old school-record mark by a tenth of second, earning a second-place finish. “We are super excited about that even though they got beat at the end by Mountain Brook; that was a great race,” Hind said. Not to be outdone, Doak laid claim to a school record of his own in the pole vault, soaring over the bar at 4.57 meters (15 feet) to claim a runner-up finish. “I have seen him going over the bars like that in practice, but he’s never done it in a meet,” Hind said. “That was just unbelievable.”

SHADES MOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN

Prior to his senior year at Shades Mountain Christian School, Dylan Pausic was simply a student-athlete. Now, having won three individual state championships in a span of three months, he can add another descriptive title to his list: author. After blasting through a pair of 13 and 14-year-old marks at the Class 1A-3A indoor state track and ﬁeld meet, Pausic is effectively rewriting the record books. The now-four-time state champion cruised to an easy victory in the 3,200 on the ﬁrst day of competition, winning by over 15 seconds and snagging the 1A-3A state meet record that dates back to 2002.

He then came back just over 24 hours later and burst through another meet record, dating to 2003, in the 1,600, clocking a time of 4:30.59. “I was a little sore in my calves and stuff, but I mean after the race yesterday, the 2-mile race, I just went home, ate a good meal, and kind of rested and slept,” Pausic said. “I had to prepare myself mentally for it, too, because I knew it was going to be hard coming off two days in a row.” Having notched a 1A-2A record in the fall at the state cross-country meet, Pausic has positioned himself to potentially clinch every small school distance record in the book, should he churn out an identical performance at the outdoor state meet in May. “It gives me a lot of hope, a lot of self-conﬁdence, knowing that I’m one of the best in my division,” Pausic said, “so I’m always going in to the next race very conﬁdent, knowing that I have a good chance to win.”

SPAIN PARK

Boosted by Daniel Nixon, the Spain Park boys totaled 44 points to place fifth in Class 7A at the indoor state meet. Nixon darted to a meet record in the 800, outlasting Mountain Brook’s Drew Williams in the closing meters and posting a scorching time of 1:55.51. He also earned a runner-up finish in the 400 (49.54) and anchored the third-place 4x400 relay team. Despite entering the meet with second slowest seed time, the 4x400 relay, composed of Nixon, Shannon Lott, Jalen McMillan and Kameron McDaniel, claimed a surprise podium finish out of the first heat. “I knew those guys had it in them. I knew they had the potential,” Spain Park head coach Michael Zelwak said. “The fact that they were able to put it all together, those guys really ran out of their minds.” Damon Wright notched a third-place finish in the shot put and Christian Strong placed fourth in the 60 hurdles, rounding out the boys top individual performers. The Jaguar girls, paced by a pair of top-eight showings from Sarah Sims McGrath in the 1,600 and 3,200, finished 11th overall.

B18 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Community City to give away trees during Arbor Day event By JESSE CHAMBERS The Hoover Beautification Board will host the city’s annual Arbor Day celebration at Aldridge Gardens on Saturday, March 5. The event helps educate children and the public about the importance of maintaining a healthy urban tree canopy. The ceremony includes a tree giveaway and the announcement of the winners of the Arbor Day Student Essay Contest in the Hoover schools. The tree giveaway is to begin at 9:30 a.m., the formal Arbor Day ceremony at 10:30 a.m. and the ceremonial tree planting at about 11 a.m. Roughly 125 trees will be given away to Hoover residents and some Hoover City Schools, according to Hoover city forester Colin Conner. There will be about a dozen varieties of seedlings, including dogwood, oak and longleaf pine, and there will be certified arborists and other landscape professionals on hand to answer questions. These celebrations have helped to qualify Hoover as a Tree City USA since 1999, according to Conner, who says that “the ultimate goal” of the event is to enhance the city’s urban forest. “Whether they be yard trees, park trees, parking lot trees, common area trees (or) buffer trees… healthy and structurally sound trees of a desirable species add significant and sometimes irreplaceable value to our city,” Conner said. The positive ecological impact of trees is undeniable, according to Conner. “Among other environmental functions, trees clean air and water, regulate temperature and provide habit

Hoover city employees attend the Arbor Day celebration at Aldridge Gardens. Photo courtesy of Lori Salter-Schommer.

for an assortment of wildlife,” he said. Arbor Day is a chance for children to learn more about the beneﬁts of tree planting. “During each school’s Arbor Day program we show students how to plant trees properly,” Conner said. “We also let students help with the actual plantings which tends to be the highlight of the program.” For more information, call 444-7500 or go to hooveral.org, click on “Government Services” and then “Beautiﬁcation Board.” Aldridge Gardens is located at 3530 Lorna Road in Hoover. For more information, go to aldridgegardens.com.

s, d n a h e k a e sh w e r o f e B s. d n a h d l o we h

Boy Scouts hosting annual yard sale By JESSE CHAMBERS Boy Scout Troop 21 in Bluff Park will host its annual yard sale and fundraiser in the parking lot of Bluff Park United Methodist Church on Sat., March 5, 2016, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m., according to the troop’s Facebook page. The yard sale, now in its fourth year, will raise money to allow the scouts to buy new tents and supplies for the coming year. Individual Scouts also set up booths at the event to raise funds for summer camp, High Adventure Trips and Eagle Scout projects. Troop 21 is currently accepting donations for the sale, including clothing, furniture, household

items and working appliances. “We have even had an aluminum ﬁshing boat, pianos and refrigerators donated before,” according to the Facebook page. The Troop is happy to pick up items from donors. To schedule a pick-up, call Laura Lewis at 205-824-2920 or 205-492-2930. The sale is open to the community, and participants are welcome to keep all proceeds they collect. The cost for a booth is $25 and includes space and all advertisement, as well as pick-up service for unsold items sellers do not wish to take home. For more information, go to bluffparktroop21.org or facebook.com/bsatroop21.

At RealtySouth, real estate doesn’t simply equate to hard negotiation and paperwork. For us, it’s more than a transaction. It’s the relationship that matters most. For nearly 60 years, we’ve

Sen. Jabo Waggoner installs the 2016 ofﬁcers of the Republican Women of the South. Photo courtesy of Nancy Mount.

been running in the same crowds. If I look familiar, it’s not necessarily because I sold your cousin’s home. We are in the same carpool line every afternoon. Our children have been classmates for years. Your community is our community. We are proud to be your neighbor. It’s Who We Are.

Sen. Waggoner visits Republican Women group The Republican Women of the South met at the Hoover Country Club for their ﬁrst meeting of the new year. On Jan. 27, Senator Jabo Waggoner was our guest speaker. He gave an informative talk on what would be happening in the legislature in the coming year. He was also there to install new ofﬁcers

for the year 2016. The ofﬁcers are: Tad Douglas, president; Marilyn Waggoner, vice president; Cindy Douglas, secretary and Kathy Cash, treasurer. Learn more about the Republican Women of the South at rwos.org. ‒ Submitted by Nancy Mount.

www.realtysouth.com

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March 2016 • B19

Events Canadian musician brings shows to the South By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE Alan Doyle has traveled all over the world, but he has only made two stops in Alabama in his 23 years as a musician: one at The Nick in 2003 and another opening for Hootie and the Blowﬁsh in Tuscaloosa. The second trip, Doyle said, opened his eyes to the state’s passion for football. “I’ve been to several of the biggest football towns in the U.S.,” Doyle said. “It’s an amazing thing, to think where I come from, that much infrastructure for a college university sport is unfathomable. In Canada, we don’t even have pro sports teams close to that.” Doyle will return to Alabama this month along with his band, the Beautiful Gypsies. They are performing a two-night set at Hoover’s Library Theatre over St. Patrick’s Day. Doyle began his career in 1993 as lead singer for the Canadian band Great Big Sea. Years later, he formed a friendship with one of their biggest fans, actor Russell Crowe. He has written and performed with Crowe over the years, and the two remain friends. After more than two decades with Great Big Sea, and albums selling over 1.2 million copies worldwide, Doyle began his solo career in 2010. This January, he debuted his second solo album, “So Let’s Go.” It has already received a nomination for a Juno Award (the Canadian equivalent of a Grammy) for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year. Doyle said after branching out on his own, he contacted some “hotshot friends” to form his band, Beautiful Gypsies. Comprised of former bandmates and people he had been wanting to tour with, their show features a mixture of Doyle’s songs along with Great Big Sea tunes. Doyle sings and plays guitar, bouzouki, mandolin and banjo. In addition to his musical career, Doyle’s

Photo courtesy of Missing Piece Group.

Alan Doyle • WHERE: Hoover Library Theatre • WHEN: March 17-18 at 7:30 p.m. • TICKETS: $25 • WEB: hooverlibrary.org/thelibrarytheatre/2015-2016/alan-doyle

resume also includes actor and author. He has starred in stage, television and ﬁlm productions, and wrote his ﬁrst book in 2014. “Where I Belong” focuses mostly on his years growing up in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland.

“I’m from a little ﬁshing town of 500 people,” he said. “Growing up there was really different than most people my age. My life was much more similar to my father’s friends than my own. The town was one of the last ones to modernize in any way.”

Doyle said all the music he learned as a kid was from his parents. His mother was a piano teacher and her favorite instrument was the piano accordion, which is still one of Doyle’s favorite instruments as well. “It is quite Irish. I learned mandolins and accordions and sea shanties and Irish songs,” he said. “Folk music was a big part of my young life, and I have always played it in my adult life as well.” He describes his music as “kind of a modern interpretation of what people would know as Atlantic seafaring music, and includes lots of chanting and inﬂuences of Irish culture. “There are a lot of accordions and ﬁddles and even in the pop, country and rock and roll songs, there is always a tinge of Celtic and Irish sounds. It’s very vocal-based, and the audience is often encouraged to sing a lot. It’s a very including kind of music.” Doyle said he loves traveling and is thrilled to get paid to go around the world and see things and meet people. “I always say my biggest blessing is that I get to do this for a living and get to see the world. Not only do I get to see a town, but I have a reason to be in the town that day. I get to leave a little part of myself there, and in a strange way I feel like I’m a part of it for 24 hours. I love that feeling,” Doyle said.

B20 • March 2016

Hoover Sun

Get colorful with Color Me Rad

Hoover TNT sale supports children’s programs Children’s clothing, toys and other items will be on sale at Riverchase UMC’s TNT consignment sale. Photo courtesy of Leslie DeLoach.

Volunteers cover runners with powder paint in Color Me Rad. Photo courtesy of Stephanie Langford.

By JESSE CHAMBERS The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA) will host its annual Color Me Rad 5K run and fundraiser at Hoover Metropolitan Stadium on Sat., March 19. Throughout the event, volunteers cover the runners from head to toe in gel, liquid and powdered paints of pink, yellow, green, blue and violet. Runners also get free stuff, including t-shirts, a temporary tattoo and a Goo Guard phone case. The Color Me Rad 5Ks are held as fundraisers around the United States and are loosely based on the Hindu Festival of Colors, known as Holi. The event benefits the RMHCA, which is located near UAB and cares for about 40 families each night, providing them with a home away from home while their children receive medical treatment in Birmingham, as well as home-cooked

meals, family activities and emotional support from volunteers, staff and other guests. This is the fourth year that the RMHCA has partnered with Color Me Rad, according to Stephanie Langford, marketing and communications director. The RMHCA raised about $34,000 in the first three years, Langford said. There are no health risks from the paint used at the race, according to organizers, who say it is non-toxic and gluten-free. The event is open to all ages, but children ages eight and up must register as adults, and all minors must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Those interested in volunteering at packet pick-up or on race day should contact alma. moore@rmhca.org. To register for Color Me Rad, go to colormerad.com/location/birmingham/#103.

Hoover Senior Center to celebrate St. Patty’s

By JESSE CHAMBERS The Riverchase Day School at Riverchase United Methodist Church will host its TNT (Tried ‘N True) consignment sale and fundraiser for the spring on March 4 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and March 5 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Proceeds from the sale support children’s programs at the church, as well as other children’s programs in Birmingham, the United States and countries such as Kenya, Haiti and Jamaica. The volunteer-managed sale “is an easy way to clean out closets and earn extra spending money,” said spokesperson Leslie DeLoach. Lots of items are available for shoppers, according to DeLoach, who said the last spring sale had 34,000 items. The sale accepts children’s seasonal clothing from infants to size 18, as well as cleats, dance clothing, dance shoes, belts, shoes and back packs. The sale also features toys, bikes, electronic games, books and

puzzles and baby items as cribs, strollers and high chairs. There will be a 30 percent price reduction on select items on Saturday only. Sign up for sellers and volunteers began on Feb. 1 at the event web site. Sellers must pay a $10 registration fee and will receive 70 percent of the proceeds from their sale items. Volunteers and consignors are allowed to shop the sale early – volunteers on Thursday at 4 p.m. and consignors on Thursday at 6 p.m. The twice-yearly sales began in 1998 as a way to raise money for Riverchase Day School and have helped fund playground equipment, nursery equipment, iPads and other classroom items, according to DeLoach. Riverchase United Methodist Church is located at 1953 Old Highway 31 in Hoover. For more information about the sale – or to register as a consignee or volunteer – go to riverchase-tnt.com.

Aldridge to host fundraiser for pups Dogs and their humans are welcome at the annual Paws in the Garden. Photo courtesy of Aldridge Gardens.

Bob and Donna Wiltsey enjoy the 2014 St. Patty’s Day Shindig. Photo courtesy of Tracy Vinzant.

By JESSE CHAMBERS The City of Hoover Senior Center will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day event – the “St. Patty’s Day Shindig” – Thurs., March 17, at 12:30 p.m. The “Shindig” has been held almost every year since the Center opened in 2007 and is popular with seniors, according to Tracy Vinzant, the facility’s event coordinator. They “love the opportunity to… watch live entertainment, and some are especially festive with their outfits,” Vinzant said. “It’s also a great time to socialize with one another.” The entertainment typically includes

Celtic music, Irish dancing, dressing contests and interactive games, according to Vinzant. The Center will serve a special meal of green punch and Irish Reuben sandwiches with corn beef and turkey. Admission is $3 in advance, payable at the Senior Center welcome desk. The registration deadline is March 15, at noon. The Senior Center, located at 400 Municipal Drive, is a place for Hoover residents ages 55 and older to meet people, enjoy good coffee and participate in activities, including games, classes, trips and luncheons. For more information, call 739-6700 or go to hooveralabama.gov/parksandrecreation.

By JESSE CHAMBERS Aldridge Botanical Gardens in Hoover will host “Paws in the Garden,” its annual dog-centric fundraiser that offers fun for dogs and families alike, on Sat., Mar 19, 2016, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The event typically offers lots of activities for dogs and the people who love them, as well

as advice regarding obedience, grooming, leash control and vaccinations. Admission is $10 per person; $5 for those ages 10 and under. Proceeds will benefit the non-profit Aldridge Gardens and the Shelby Humane Society. The Gardens are located at 3530 Lorna Road. For “Paws” tickets or more information, call 205-682-8019 or go to www.aldridgegardens.com.

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As days turn warmer, it’s time to start thinking about summertime at last, and no summer is complete without a camp experience. Peruse our guide to learn more about which programs best ﬁt your child’s personality, interest, age and availability. No matter which you choose, it’s time to jump in for fun and adventure this summer!

” Stacy Flippen found our perfect empty nest.” When Sally and Ben May decided to buy a new home for their next phase of life as empty-nesters, they turned to Realtor Stacy Flippen with ARC Realty to guide the process. “Stacy brought energy, persistence, and professionalism to our search for a home in Homewood,” says Sally. “Not only did she deliver the desired result, she became a friend and neighbor along the way.” Stacy’s knowledge of the area and connections with other Realtors were keys to the May’s success. “We couldn’t keep up with the pace of houses being bought and sold in Homewood,” says Ben. “Stacy’s tenacity and determination led us quickly to the house we now happily call home.” Stacy says being a part of ARC Realty also gives her a distinct advantage. “ARC is a Birmingham-based company. Our leadership team understands this community and is committed to providing the best customer experience.”

A Relationship Company 4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35243 205.969.8910

www.arcrealtyco.com

Stacy Flippen • (205) 966-8406 • sflippen@arcrealtyco.com

B22 • March 2016

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special advertising section

Find your place at RMTC

For kids who feel like all the world’s a stage, Red Mountain Theatre Company’s education workshops and camps provide the opportunity to hone singing, dancing and acting skills. With six different offerings, these programs are not just for the experienced actors. The Basic and Blast Bootcamps are non-auditioned. Basic Bootcamp is geared toward children ages 4-6 for the development of their creative skills. Each week, students will use music, crafts, dance and drama to explore a different theme such as Under

the Sea, Superheroes or Fairytales. The other non-audition type camps are Blast Bootcamp and Spring Break Blast, which teaches kids and teens ages 7-18 all the basic skills of musical theater through music, dance and acting. Students can audition for the Recruit, Intermediate and Advanced Bootcamps on March 12 and 13. Recruits, ages 7-18, will learn specialized skills like improvisational comedy, jazz dance and choral singing. This camp focuses on enhancing the performance skills of all young

artists. Intermediate Bootcamp is for students ages 9-15 who are ready to take their theater training to the next level. Students will gain skills in intermediate dance steps and song interpretation. Advanced Bootcamp is for students ages 13-18 who will focus on learning complex production numbers straight from the Broadway stage. Students train for three weeks to become triple-threat performers, becoming experts in singing, dancing and acting. This elite camp is

RMTC Education Programs • WHEN: March 28-April 1 and June 6-24 • CALL: 324-2424 • WEB: redmountaintheatre.org/education

for those who want to be the best of the best.

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YMCA Summer Day Camp focuses on youth development Youth development is the social, emotional, cognitive and physical processes that all youth uniquely experience from birth to career. A successful developmental process fulfills children and teens’ innate need to be loved, spiritually grounded, educated, competent and healthy. Trading stories and sharing a favorite book or song with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff and teammates after scoring the winning point. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Summer Day Camp at the YMCA of Greater Birmingham is all about — ensuring kids get more out of their summer break: more friendships, more achievement, and more belonging. The Y is a place where kids feel safe, welcomed and can express their individuality in an environment that provides positive relationships, encourages parent engagement, and helps children realize their passions and talents. It’s also loads of fun! To learn more or to register, go online to ymcabham.org/best-summer. Other YMCA Summer Opportunities YMCA Camp Cosby The YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s sleepaway camp, Camp Cosby, offers a one-week, co-ed, safe and structured experience for children ages 6 to 16 on the shores of Logan Martin Lake. YMCA Camp Cosby gives children a chance to play hard, make new friends, and have the adventure of a lifetime in a safe, fun and structured environment. Your camper will develop new skills, gain confidence, make friends and have an amazing experience. campcosby.org

Day Camp at Hargis is really camp! Located on 200+ wooded acres complete with swimming pool, hiking trails, ﬁelds for games, rock face for climbing, and our own private lake, it is the perfect backdrop for the traditional camp activities that we offer. Activities include: ►Hiking ►Fishing ►Canoeing ►Lake swimming ►Archery ►Rock climbing ymcabham.org/hargisretreat

YMCA Hargis Retreat Unlike other day camp programs, Summer

Summer Adventures In Learning (S.A.I.L.) The Summer Adventures In Learning program

BEST

TIME

EVER!

BEST. SUMMER. EVER.

Summer Day Camp

YMCA OF GREATER BIRMINGHAM #BestSummerEver

ymcabham.org/bestsummer

works with struggling students in grades 3-5 who need extra help. Summer Adventures In Learning is designed to help prevent learning loss, offer chances to explore new interests and skills and close the achievement gap for children from lower income communities. ymcabham.org/sail THINGAMAJIG® Invention Convention Friday, July 22 THINGAMAJIG® is a daylong event that combines STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), active ﬁtness and play, creative eco-art and team challenges into one child-focused festival. Learn more at ymcabham.org/thingamajig.

YMCA Day Camp • WHERE: 2250 John Hawkins Parkway • CALL: 682-1399 • WEB: ymcabham.org/hoover

B24 • March 2016

summer camp

Hoover Sun

G U I D E special advertising section

Birmingham Children’s Theatre

Mason Music Camp

The Birmingham Children’s Theatre offers a variety of classes for children to enjoy, including the YAT Summer Academy 1 (Pre-K through 2nd grade), YAT Summer Academy 2 (3rd grade through 12th grade), and YAT Aladdin Jr. Academy (1st through 12th grade). Children will learn skills in acting, musical theater voice, musical theater dance, scene study, audition techniques, stage combat, improv, playwriting and rehearsal techniques. Birmingham Children’s Theatre Academy is designed for all skill levels and the curriculum is tailored to encourage and bring out the best in students, as they develop their skills in the areas of voice training, stage combat, audition techniques, playwriting and dance. Advanced students will have the opportunity to push themselves and hone their talents working with some of the best theater teachers in the region. And beginners will be given instruction designed to start a foundation in theatre arts. Aladdin Jr. – This program is a rehearsal-centered academy designed for the students who are

Mason Music offers summer camps for every age group so there’s something for everyone. Mason Music Camp for Beginners is perfect for children ages 6-9 years old, who have little or no experience with music or musical instruments. Students will learn how to sing and play instruments like the guitar, piano, drums and violin. Sessions are from June 6-10 at the Bluff Park Studio; July 11-15 at the Mountain Brook Studio; and August 1-5 at our Cahaba Heights Studio. The cost of this camp is $175. The Princess and Pirate Preschool Music Camp teaches little princesses and pirates about the world of music from 9-11 a.m. Sessions are from June 13-17 at the Mountain Brook Studio and July 11-15 at the Cahaba Heights Studio. The cost of this camp is $125 for 3-5 year olds (who are potty trained). For 10-18 year olds, Mason Music’s Rock Band Camp, from June 20-24 at the Cahaba Heights Studio, is perfect for kids who are ready to take their music skills to the next level. Students are placed into bands and learn how to play in a group setting, culminating in a “battle of the

Birmingham Children’s Theatre • WHERE: 2130 Richard Arrington Blvd. N. • CALL: 458-8181 • WEB: bct123.org

ready to perform. They will mix theater classes with rehearsal blocks and at the end of the academy, students will perform in a fully mounted production of Aladdin Jr. on our MainStage. Must audition to attend. Artistic Director Roy Hudson (2009 Alabama Teacher of the Year) has developed and taught in camps in the U.S. and overseas for almost 40 years. Students from his camps are working in theater all over the world including Broadway and Hollywood. Many of BCT teachers are certified teachers with years of experience as theater artists.

Mason Music Studio • WHERE: Bluff Park 761 Shades Mountain Plaza, Cahaba Heights 3187 Cahaba Heights Road, Mountain Brook 2903 Cahaba Road • CALL: Bluff Park 582-2238, Cahaba Heights 908-7059, Mountain Brook 8749596 • WEB: masonmusicstudios.com/music-camps/

bands” at the end of the week at a local venue. Overdrive is for 13-18 year olds who have extensive training in their instrument. Overdrive will take place July 18-29 at the Cahaba Heights Studio. The cost of this camp is $1,000. Students will play together, write together and perform live together. Every student will spend time in Mason’s professional recording studio and receive a copy of their band’s original song and music video.

summer camp

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special advertising section

Aldridge Garden Summer Camps

The Altamont School

Summer is the perfect time to learn about nature at Aldridge Gardens, where art and nature form a perfect balance. June is filled with camp activities with plenty of camps for boys and girls to choose from for those in kindergarten up to fourth grade. This year’s camp will feature activities and classes including American Girls in Aldridge Gardens; Engineering FUNdamentals: Create, Construct, Connect; Outdoor Makers: Creating Creative Kids!; and Construction in Nature: Experimenting with Materials to build Structures in Nature. Camps run from June 6th to July 1st, 2016 from 9 a.m. to noon. Camp cost is $105 for members and $125 for non-members. All teachers are certified in education with assistance from teacher-recommended teen volunteers. Families return year after year to experience the summer camps at Aldridge Gardens, which have taken place since 2007. In fact,

Summer at Altamont is open to interested first through 12th graders from all schools with an eclectic array of exciting choices for campers from sports and music to theater and astronomy, among many others. Camp takes place from June 6-July 15. Courses and camps offered at Altamont during the summer bring exciting options for acceleration, enrichment and credit. Summer programs are a great way for prospective families to learn about Altamont and current students to get ahead for the upcoming year. Credit Courses: High school credit courses include Altamont-required half-credit courses Speech, Laboratory Technology and Health, plus full-credit courses in Honors Geometry and ninth grade Honors Ancient and Medieval Civilizations. Elective Classes: Offerings for middle and elementary students include photography, astronomy, cooking, theater, languages and so much more.

Aldridge Gardens • WHERE: 3530 Lorna Road • CALL: 682-8012 • WEB: aldridgegardens.com

it’s a favorite of grandparents who schedule their out-of-town grandchildren to experience all that Aldridge Gardens offers during their week in Birmingham. All camps take place in the beautiful outdoor surroundings, where children have fun playing group camp games on the lawn, feeding ducks, turtles and fish, making accessories for American Girls for doll camp, and building fairy gardens amid the plants and animals on Aldridge’s 30 acres of woodland gardens.

The Altamont School • WHERE: 4801 Altamont Road South • CALL: 879-2006 • WEB: altamontschool.org/summer We also have enrichment classes in math and English, as well as an intensive writing workshop. Sports and Music Camps: Hugely popular basketball and soccer day camps are open to players of all skill levels, from rising 1st through rising 12th grade. New music offerings this year include band camp, jazz camp and string camp. Whether it’s enrichment, enlightenment, entertainment, merriment, advancement or just a way to burn off some of that pent-up energy, Altamont has what your child needs this summer: something constructive to do.

B26 â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Hoover Sun

Hoover Real Estate Listings MLS #

Zip

Address

Status

Price

740003

35226

3817 James Hill Circle

New

$424,500

740705

35226

3232 Pinehurst Drive

New

$245,000

740643

735754

612 Stonehaven Road

New

$250,000

740622

35226

2128 Sumpter Street

New

$239,500

740592

35226

3635 Village Center Lane

New

$369,000

740571

35226

307 Great View Circle

New

$259,900

740570

35226

3770 James Hill Terrace

New

$409,000

740564

35226

1381 Atkins Trimm Boulevard

New

$245,000

740562

35226

4961 Crystal Circle

New

$369,900

740551

35226

4318 Village Green Way

New

$385,000

740471

35226

4941 Crystal Circle

New

$379,000

740470

35226

2325 Southampton Drive

New

$387,000

740341

35226

1381 Al Seier Road

New

$229,900

740336

35226

3805 Carisbrooke Circle

New

$450,000

740424

35226

612 Village Crest Circle

New

$249,900

740241

35226

744 Flag Circle

New

$239,000

740238

35226

544 Lacey Lane

New

$269,900

740206

35226

3112 Whispering Pines Circle

New

$319,900

739989

35226

2011 Chalybe Way

New

$319,900

739959

35226

426 Delcris Drive

New

$349,900

Real estate listings provided by the Birmingham Association of Realtors on Feb. 15. Visit birminghamrealtors.com.

3817 James Hill Circle

612 Village Crest Circle

HooverSun.com

March 2016 • B27

Calendar Hoover Events March 3: Economic Development Committee Meeting. 8:30 a.m. Hoover Chamber Office Visit hooverchamber.org. March 3: Vulcan Eejits. 6:30 p.m. Hoover Public Library, 200 Municipal Drive. Celtic trio performance. Visit hooverlibrary.org. March 5: City of Hoover’s 18th Annual Arbor Day Celebration. Aldridge Gardens. 9:30 a.m. Free. Visit aldridgegardens.com.

nual Leprechaun Leap 5K and Fun Run. 8 a.m. Town Hall at the Preserve, 601 Preserve Way, Hoover. Benefiting Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area. $30 registration. Visit runsignup.com. March 12-13: Mosaic Memory Flower Pot Workshop. Aldridge Gardens. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $42 members/$50 non-members. Visit aldridgegardens.com.

March 10: Hoover Chamber Coffee & Contacts. 7:30-9:00 a.m. Inverness Country Club. Visit hooverchamber.org.

March 15: Wings of Opportunity: The Wright Brothers in Montgomery. 1 p.m. Hoover Library. Presented by Julie Hedgepeth Williams, a journalism professor at Samford University. Refreshments followed by presentation at 1:30.

March 12: BCBS of Alabama’s 2nd An-

March 16: Chamber Ambassador Meet-

ing. Hoover Chamber Office Visit hooverchamber. org. March 17: Hoover Chamber Luncheon. Hyatt Regency-The Wynfrey Hotel. 11:15 a.m. Networking, Noon Luncheon. Call 988-5672 or email lisa@hooverchamber.org for reservations. Visit hooverchamber.org. March 17-18 Alan Doyle. The Library Theatre, 200 Municipal Drive, Hoover. $25. 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Visit hooverlibrary.org. March 18: Relay for Life. 3:30 p.m.-midnight. Spain Park Stadium. Visit relay.acsevents.org.

p.m. Aldridge Gardens. Dog-centered displays, vendors and dog costume contest. $10 per dog or dogless family. Visit aldridgegardens.com. March 20: The Friendship Force of Birmingham Meeting. 2 p.m. Southminster Presbyterian Church. March 22: Constant Contact Workshop. 3 p.m. Hoover Chamber Office Free. Space is limited. Make reservations at 988-5672. March 24: Business after Hours. 5 p.m.- 7 p.m. Morningside of Riverchase, 2184 Parkway Lake Drive. Visit fivestarseniorliving.com

March 19: PAWS in the Gardens. 9 a.m.-5

Hoover Public Library Events March 3: Emergency Preparedness: Are You Ready? 6 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Emergency kits, weather radios and more! Jim Coker, director of the Jefferson County EMA, will share tips on how to be prepared. Light food and refreshments provided.

Tragedy. 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. This Oscar-nominated documentary tells the story of nine African-American teenagers wrongly convicted of a shocking crime in 1931. The public outrage surrounding this case helped give birth to the civil rights movement. Free admission and refreshments.

March 6: Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: Creole. 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Presented by Coffee-ol-ogy Café with complimentary samples provided. Free.

March 8: Spanish Conversation Club. 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Library Plaza. All Spanish fluency levels welcome to practice and learn.

March 7: Friends of the Hoover Library: Container and Vegetable Gardens. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Presented by the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Refreshments at 9:45 am. Free and open to the public. March 7: Scottsboro: An American

March 10: Second Thursday Fiction Book Group. 10 a.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. “A Star for Mrs. Blake” by April Smith. March 12: Lyme Disease: What You Need to Know. 1 p.m. The Library Theatre. Documentary screening with panel discussion presented by the Alabama Lyme Disease Association.

March 15: Glue Gun Gang: Giant Dahlia Door Décor. 6:30 p.m. Theatre Conference Room. Create a giant colorful paper flower to welcome spring. Adults only. Reservations required. March 17-18: Alan Doyle. 7:30 p.m. The Library Theatre. Tickets $25. March 18: Color & Chill at Game Nite. 7-10 p.m. Library Plaza. Take a break between games and join us for a special pop-up edition of our popular adult coloring page event. March 18: After Hours @ the Plaza: Game Nite. 7 p.m-10 p.m. Library Plaza. Put your game face on and team up with your fellow gamers. March 19-20: How to Find Grants. 10:30 a.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Training Center.

Learn how to use the Foundation Center Cooperative database to find rants for nonprofits and individuals Reservations required. March 20: B. Snipes. 2:30 p.m. Library Plaza. Drawing upon a range of influences from olk to indie rock, his music feels both nostalgic and new. March 21: Neuroscience Cafe: Understanding Chronic Pain: Promising Treatments and Novel Mechanisms. 6:30 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Presented by the UAB Comprehensive Neuroscience Center. March 31: Planting for Bees, Butterflies and Hummingbirds. 6:30 p.m. Theatre Level Meeting Rooms. Presented by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

Offer Expires 03/31/16

w w w . t h e w h a l e o f a s a l e . co m

Thursday, March 3 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. (Kid-Free/Stroller-Free Night, Please!)

Friday, March 4 9:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. (1:00 - 2:00, Most Items 1/2 off !)

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