Hoover Sun November 2024

Reimagining the landscape

Hoover’s dream to make ’80s office parks into 21st-century work spaces

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

Imagine a U.S. 280 full of green, walkable communities, workers

The idea that stretches of U.S. 280 could be transformed from acres of asphalt to idyllic spaces for living and working is one the city of Hoover hopes to achieve.

Last year, city officials announced they would be commissioning a study that would examine the feasibility of what the city called a “tech corridor” — looking at attracting tech-based jobs to the city. That study was completed this summer, with a set of recommendations the city hopes to implement. The study focused on Meadow Brook, but Jackson Pruett, economic development coordinator for Hoover, said the city looked at Alpharetta, Georgia, Brentwood, Tennessee, and Sandy Springs, Georgia, for inspiration.

See TECH CORRIDOR | page A18

Hoover retailers prep for Christmas shopping season

By GRACE THORNTON

Sherry Hartley said the Christmas shopping season has been on her mind for a long time.

At Alabama Goods in Stadium Trace Village, the pottery, soaps, jewelry and other products that are ready to be Hoover residents’ Christmas gifts have been months in the making.

“We start our process of Christmas preparation by ordering the things that are the most time-consuming to fill — things that are made by hand by our local artists and crafters all over the state,” said Hartley, who co-owns the store with Beth Staula.

They started working on corporate orders in September and will continue to ramp up with those through the holidays.

“Fourth quarter for us is when we go from the red to the black, so it’s crucial for us,” Hartley said, noting they have been preparing for this year to be as good for holiday shopping as 2023.

She said she hopes that after election day in November, shoppers “will be more comfortable spending their money.”

See HOLIDAY SHOPPING | page A16

Stephen Springfield plays with his dog, Riley, while eating lunch in the back of his car in Meadow Brook Corporate Park off of U.S. 280 on Oct. 9. Springfield commutes from Homewood, so he relies on the presence of green spaces to spend time with Riley on his break. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.

A Dear Prudence store employee sorts through the 50% off rack. The store offers clothing, goods and jewelry that change with the seasons. Photo by Savannah Schmidt.

ABOUT US

Editor’s Note By Jon Anderson

With the arrival of November also comes the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. But while we may start to hear those sleigh bells ringing soon, some experts are skeptical about whether the cash registers will be ringing as much this year.

This month’s presidential election and the continued impact of inflation could negatively impact holiday spending, as Grace Thornton tells us in one of our cover stories for the Hoover Sun this month. Spending dipped before and after the 2020 election, and many families are still feeling the sting in their pocketbooks when they go out to eat, go grocery shopping or buy other goods they’re accustomed

to purchasing.

This month’s edition of the paper also introduces the new Miss Hoover —

Emma Terry — and sheds light on the mysterious life of Ronald Freeze, better known to many in the community as the “Galleria Elvis.” Reporter

Emily Reed did a fine job of investigating the life of a man many people saw but never knew much about. Happy reading.

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Brightmark Health offers concierge-quality

Dr. Joseph Wu, founder of Brightmark Health in Vestavia Hills, is board-certified in internal medicine and has been a primary care doctor in Birmingham since 2005.

In addition to this wealth of experience, Dr. Wu cares deeply about his patients.

“I really enjoy the relationships I develop with patients and being their go-to guy for the majority of their health concerns and being the person they call when they have an issue,” he said.

Dr. Wu opened Brightmark Health in July to avoid working in the corporate health-care business and to focus exclusively on providing top-quality, personalized patient care.

“This practice allows me to spend a lot more time with patients and be there for them when they truly need us,” Wu said.

The healthcare business focuses too much on profits and not enough on patients, Dr. Wu believes. That’s why Brightmark Health breaks the mold.

Dr. Wu and his staff offer membership-based, concierge-quality primary care with no insurance, co-pays or red tape — and at a lower cost than most other concierge practices.

Brightmark Health takes primary care back from the big corporate entities and insurance companies.

“I’m not owned or controlled by anybody,” Dr. Wu said. “I’m just here to give our patients great care for a fair price.”

When typical insurance pays for an office visit, it doesn't cover the full cost of giving the patient great care, he said.

“Our standard and premium memberships allow us to have the best people working with me to give you the best care possible,” Dr. Wu said.

Brightmark also offers transparent pricing.

“You know exactly how much you’re going

to pay,” Dr. Wu said. “We have a price list, and we stick to it.”

Brightmark’s memberships offer patients another huge benefit.

“They allow us to have fewer patients, so we can get you in when you want to be seen,” Dr. Wu said.

Depending on the patient’s membership, they can get an appointment typically within 24 to 48 hours, and many times on the same day.

Brightmark remains dedicated to an old-school,

Brightmark Health

• Where: 400 Century Park S., Suite 200

• Call: 205-900-0888

• Web: brightmarkhealth.com

personal approach in an age of apps, email and voicemail.

“When you call most clinics, you just get an answering machine, but when you call us, you get an actual person on the phone,” Dr. Wu said. “We’ll get you an answer within minutes, whatever your problem is.”

The care patients receive at Brightmark is customized to them.,

“We take the time to discuss all of the treatment options with the patients,” Dr. Wu said. “I believe in empowering the patients to make the best decisions for themselves.”

Dr. Wu received his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University and his medical degree from The University of Alabama School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency at UAB and The University of Michigan.

His staff includes Reva Kelly, the Medical Assistant, and Shayna Gurley, the nurse and Clinic Manager.

For Dr. Wu, his practice all comes back to building genuine connections with patients and their families.

“It’s relationships that make my job amazing, because I get to touch so many people’s lives,” he said. “I know my patients really well. They are not just a number or a chart. They become my friends.”

CITY

Legislators seek to remove restrictions for grocery tax reductions

By JON ANDERSON

Some state legislators say they are working to amend state law to allow the city of Hoover and other municipalities and county governments to reduce their local sales tax on groceries without having to meet certain requirements put in place last year.

When the Legislature in June 2023 passed a law to cut the state sales tax on groceries from 4% to 3% on Sept. 1 of last year, it also allowed cities and counties to cut city and county sales taxes on groceries, but there were conditions.

If a city wants to cut its sales tax on groceries, it can only do so by 25% at a time, and that city’s general fund must have grown by at least 2% in the previous year, according to the law passed by the Legislature.

Those requirements were not initially in the bill, but they were added at the request of the Alabama League of Municipalities and the Association of County Commissioners of Alabama, said state Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, who sponsored the legislation in the Alabama House of Representatives.

There was concern that if the state reduced the sales tax on groceries, it would put pressure on local governments to do the same, and local governments tend to be more heavily dependent on sales taxes for operations, Garrett said.

Garrett said while he didn’t really favor adding those limitations into the bill, he did so as a compromise to help get the bill as a whole passed. Now, he’s ready to remove those limitations because he believes local governments should be able to decide for themselves whether to reduce the sales tax on groceries or not.

He plans to introduce an amendment to the 2023 law in the next legislative session, and state Sen. Andrew Jones, R-Centre, who sponsored the original legislation in the Senate, is supportive of

the amendment as well, Garrett said.

The Hoover City Council voted in October 2023 to reduce Hoover’s sales tax on groceries from 3.5% to 3% on Oct. 1 of this year. However, the state this summer informed Hoover its ordinance did not comply with state law because a reduction from 3.5% to 3% was not a 25% reduction. A 25% reduction would put Hoover’s sales tax on groceries at 2.625%.

However, Hoover also did not qualify to reduce its tax this year because its general fund did not grow by at least 2%, after transfers to

State Rep. Mike Shaw, R-Hoover, said removing the limitations that were added into state law last year will “put the power in the cities’ hands, which is where it should be.”

Hoover Councilman Casey Middlebrooks said he doubts the city will be in a position to lower the sales tax on groceries anytime in the near future because of obligations the city has taken on since its vote a year ago. Tax breaks

and incentives for projects such as Riverwalk Village in Riverchase have obligated the city to payments, he said.

Lowering the city sales tax on groceries from 3.5% to 3% would have cost the city an estimated $2.5 million to $3 million in revenue, but lowering the tax to 2.625% would cost the city $3.5 million to $4 million, he said.

The reduction in Hoover sales taxes on groceries, at the time it was approved, was expected to save the average Hoover resident $17.65 per year.

other funds were taken into consideration, Hoover Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Cornett said.

Chris Patel checks out at the Desi Brothers Farmers Market in The Plaza at Riverchase shopping center in Hoover.

Photo by Jon Anderson.

Mayor’s Minute

By Frank V. Brocato

This month, I want to tell you about a jewel we have in our city that you may not be fully aware of.

It is the Shelby-Hoover campus of Jefferson State Community College, which is located off Valleydale Road. Out of Alabama’s 21 community colleges, Jeff State has the highest enrollment. Jeff State’s other campuses are located in Jefferson County, St. Clair County and Chilton County.

There are several programs in which the city collaborates with Jeff State, and I’d like to highlight a few of those and other great things they have going on.

There is a national trend for more high school graduates pursuing trade careers. Welding is one of the most in-demand areas right now. According to a study by the Shelby County Chamber and 58 Inc., welding was among the most in-demand careers in the area. That’s why in 2020, the city was thrilled to donate the land to Jeff State on which they built their new welding center. The program is helping meet the demands of industry while helping students get training for jobs with thriving wages.

Although nationwide college enrollment numbers are dropping, that is not the case for Jeff State. Enrollment numbers for fall 2024 are the highest they’ve been in 11 years. A large part of that is high school students involved in what’s

called dual enrollment — a path that allows them to earn college credit while in high school. Jeff State leads all community colleges in Alabama in dual enrollment, with more than 3,600 participants. And at $170 per credit hour, the value is a steal!

The city also partners with Jeff State on several community programs like Celebrate Hoover Day and the Judy Merritt Memorial 5K Run. Named in honor of the school’s former president, the money raised goes toward scholarships for Jeff State students in need.

Jeff State also has a new surgical technology program and its award-winning culinary program, the longest running in Alabama. They have various in-demand health care programs and several fasttrack (short certificate) programs that can be completed in six weeks to six months. This is all in addition to the dozens of other areas of study that are available.

As you can see, they have so much to offer. No wonder they were ranked as the most popular two-year institution in the state in 2023. I encourage you to consider Jeff State for any post-secondary education needs you may seek.

of Alabama, you’ll enjoy:

• A partner dedicated to providing an easy healthcare experience — in 2024, our Blue Advantage plans received 5 stars for Health Plan Customer Service and 4 stars for Overall Star Rating1

• Access to 90% of doctors and 100% of hospitals statewide1

Hoover schools hire consultant to study enrollment patterns

By JON ANDERSON

As the city of Hoover continues to grow, the Hoover school board is looking for help in figuring out how to handle a rising student population.

The school board on Oct. 8 hired a facilities planner to do an in-depth analysis of the Hoover school system’s buildings and projected future enrollment patterns.

Superintendent Kevin Maddox told the school board that ever since he arrived a little over a year ago, people have been asking him how the school system is going to handle all the kids coming from new homes being built in Hoover.

There are about 4,080 homes approved but not yet built in Hoover, and just about all of them are on the western side of the city, he said.

Hoover High School, with roughly 2,900 students, already is the largest high school in the state, and he is told that Bumpus Middle School is getting full, he said. Elementary schools also are impacted by growth, and there is an 11th elementary school in the school system’s five-year plan as a placeholder, Maddox said.

Maddox said everyone is asking him what the school system should do next, and he has no idea. So he asked the school board to hire a company in Homewood called HPM to do a study. “We’ve reached a point where we need some professional help,” Maddox said.

The school board agreed to pay HPM $34,500 for the first phase of a long-range facilities plan. That first phase will involve an in-depth demographic study that looks at things such as historical enrollment data and data about how many children have come from different kinds of housing (apartments, condominiums, townhomes and various sizes of

other single-family homes), said Tracy Richter, the vice president of planning services for HPM.

People may look at the number of approved homes not yet built (4,080) and think that’s going to mean 5,000 new students, “but that’s far from the truth,” Richter said. “Most houses don’t produce but 0.6 or 0.7 kids per house.”

Also, you shouldn’t think all of those homes are going to be built at one time, Richter said. Buildout of a subdivision typically is a 5-year to 7-year process, he said. Some of Hoover’s subdivisions are large and have

VESTAVIA’S

longer-term buildouts.

Maddox said the school-age population in parts of Hoover is shrinking as parents turn into empty-nesters. He asked Richter whether those homes eventually will produce children for schools again as empty-nesters sell to people with school-age children.

Richter said that happens everywhere, but the timing of it is almost impossible to predict. “Gentrification isn’t happening right now,” he said.

When interest rates were so low six or seven years ago, many people refinanced at rates

around 2.5%, and now that interest rates are back up, they don’t see the same advantage of downsizing to a smaller home and lowering their payments, he said.

“Some of those homes you thought would turn over may not turn over for a while, and those empty nesters will sit there and empty nest for a while and hold onto that square footage for a 2.5% interest rate,” Richter said.

The first phase of this study likely will take until January, Richter said. Then school officials can decide if they want to proceed with HPM for future phases of the planning process.

Bumpus MIddle School in Hoover.

Photo by Jon Anderson.

Hoover students named National Merit semifinalists In the Classroom

GET TO KNOW

By JON ANDERSON

At least 25 students from Hoover have been named as National Merit semifinalists this year.

That includes 13 from Hoover High, eight from Spain Park High and four from the Alabama School of Fine Arts.

The National Merit semifinalists from Hoover High are Elijah Boyd, Alexander Casiday, Henry Chandler, Lily Fu, Krish Gadhia, Akash Gaggar, Mark Houston, Taylor Lynch, Misha Patel, Lauren Rauworth, Tatum Stacey, Daniel Turyk and Isaac Wood.

The semifinalists from Spain Park High are Michael Allen, Carmen Britt, Xuyang Chen, Julia Daigle, David Johnson, Tracy Li, Noah Smith and Rebecca Stafford. The Alabama School of Fine Arts had 10 semifinalists, and the four from Hoover are Monisha Bommu, Jacob Patton, William Peng and Srihansi Sagi.

Hoover High School also had 13 African American/Black, Hispanic/ Latino or indigenous/native students who received National Recognition status. Those students are Fernando Acevedo, Charles Bauer, Jose Bracamontes, Arturo Briseno, Karrington Davis, Ricky Ibarra, Ziyaan Lakhani, Matthew Lam, Caleb Miller, Mia Mojica, Lauren Pate, Jordan Perry and Mardelis Figueroa Ramos.

Spain Park High had three National Recognition Scholars: Sofia Contreras, Trevor Gakunga and Emily Njau.

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Spain Park Principal Amanda Esslinger

By TAYLOR BRIGHT

Amanda Esslinger has been the principal at Spain Park High School since the summer of 2022.

Q: What inspired you to work in education?

A: When I think about what inspired me to become an educator, I honestly don’t have an answer. And that sounds probably crazy, but I have never wanted to be anything other than a teacher. And once I became a teacher, I was so fortunate to work under an administrative team that believed in me and gave me responsibilities that were more on a school-level that really led me to see that I would like to go into administration. And, really, the rest is history.

Q: What is something great about your school?

A: Gosh, to name something that is great about Spain Park is probably one of the hardest things because there are so many things that are great. But I would have to say the greatest thing is the people. And by the people I mean our amazing students, our teachers, our custodians, our CNP staff and our support staff and, of course, the administrative team that helps me every single day. Really the best part about Spain Park is the people because they are what makes Spain Park special.

Q: Tell us something about you that people might not know.

A: Growing up, my parents owned a bowling alley, and I bowled every Saturday until I was in high school because the league was on Saturday mornings. But when I was in high school, I joined the track team, and the meets were on Saturday mornings, so I couldn’t bowl anymore. But it actually was probably the decision that changed my life the most, because through track I met my husband.

Memory

Amanda Esslinger is entering her third school year as principal at Spain Park High School. Photo courtesy of Amanda Esslinger

Hoover High School had 13 students named National Merit semifinalists in 2024 and 13 more named National Recognition Scholars.

Photo courtesy of Kelsea Schafer.

Spain Park High School had eight students National Merit semifinalists for 2024 and three students named National Recognition Scholars. Photo by Taylor Bright.

Four of the 10 2024 National Merit semifinalists at the Alabama School of Fine Arts are from Hoover. They are, from left, Jacob Patton, Srihansi Sagi, William Peng and Monisha Bommu. Photos courtesy of Alabama School of Fine Arts.

Business Buzz

BUSINESS HAPPENINGS

NOW OPEN

Trampled by Tacos recently opened at 5363 U.S. 280, Suite B 101, in the space previously occupied by Little Donkey. The menu offers a variety of tacos, burritos, bowls and fresh-squeezed lime margaritas. Customers can expect a large outdoor seating area boasting an outdoor bar, and a casual atmosphere. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 659-219-8698, instagram.com/trampledbytacos

Dr. Emily Rehberg has opened Lung Care And at 501 Doug Baker Blvd. She offers medical care in pulmonary medicine and more.

256-401-0390, lungcareand.com

Tammy Burton has opened Bluff Park Massage and Wellness at 2170 Clearbrook Road, Suite 103. 205-492-6989, tammyburton.amtamembers.com

Jessica Zillman has opened two businesses, The Rainbow Balloon Co. and Sew Snarky Designs screen printing and embroidery, under one roof at 3659 Lorna Road, Suite 151. The shop offers everything from graband-go balloon garlands and helium balloons to personalized embroidered items, custom-designed shirts, tumblers, keychains and more. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

205-542-5881, rainbowballooncompany.com, sewsnarkydesigns.com

The Pink Tulip, a locally owned fashion boutique, held a grand opening for its new 2,000-square-foot space in The Grove shopping center at 5533 Grove Blvd., next to Pivot Fitness and Popshelf, on Oct. 5. The boutique, which has another location in downtown Homewood, was founded in 1986 by Letty Algren and is now operated by Algren and her daughter, Hadley Algren. 205-637-0031, thepinktulipclothing.com

Hair by Kim Laslo

Alternative Hair Solutions recently opened in September, next to GameStop in the River Ridge shopping center. The salon is designed for customers that need alternative hair solutions, including wigs, toppers, extensions and other non-surgical hair replacement options. Hair By Kim is a private salon for men and women, and customers are required to book an appointment to be seen. Appointments can be scheduled on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 205-767-3371, kimlaslo.com

RELOCATIONS AND RENOVATIONS

Birchtree Day Spa has relocated from Ross Bridge to Bluff Park at 801 Shades Crest Road, Suite C, just a few doors down from Mr. P's Butcher Shop & Deli. 205-989-0001, birchtreedayspa.net

The Cadillac of Birmingham dealership at 1677 Montgomery Highway has started a renovation project involving a total overhaul of about 90% of the original showroom and office building, a refresh of the detail bays and parts warehouse and a minor refresh for the newer building that originally served as a Hummer showroom, General Sales Manager Brad Horton said. The renovation will enlarge the showroom to allow

for display of more vehicles, and the entire project is expected to be completed by the end of June, Horton said. 205-259-6969, cadillacofbirmingham.com

Yum Yai Street Thai, at 5426 U.S. 280 #9, closed on Aug. 1 for renovations. After reopening, the restaurant will have an updated look and offer customers more dine-in options. Yum Yai serves traditional Thai foods with a modern twist. This includes a variety of fried rice dishes, wide rice noodles, curry dishes and much more. Follow Yum Yai on Facebook for updates on an official reopening date.

205-637-6352, yumyaibham.com

NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Justin Scarsella, owner and master instructor at Master Scarsella’s World Class Tae Kwon Do, has been honored as one of the 2024 Birmingham’s Finest by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The distinction was given to Scarsella because of his “leadership, professional successes and philanthropic spirit.” Master Scarsella’s World Class Tae Kwon Do has two locations, with one in Inverness at 268 Inverness Center Drive and one in Hoover at 3417 Old Columbiana Road. 205-981-9636, alabamatkd.com

APCO Employees Credit Union renamed its branch at 6400 Tattersall Park Drive to honor longtime employee and CEO Derrick Ragland Jr. Earlier this year, Ragland was named Alabama Professional of the Year by the League of Southeastern Credit Unions. The board of directors for APCO Employees Credit Union chose to honor Ragland for his 42 years of service to the credit union and its members. The Tattersall Park location opened in the summer of 2020. 205-547-9400, apcocu.com

The Alabama Broadcasters Association recently inducted former ABC 33/40 news anchor Pam Huff into the ABA Hall of Fame and named former ABC 33/40 Vice President and General Manager Eric Land as Broadcaster of the Year. 205-403-3340, abc3340.com

The Long-Lewis Automotive Group, which owns the Long-Lewis of Hoover dealership at 2551 John Hawkins Parkway, has acquired Eckenrod Ford Lincoln in Cullman. The official name of the dealership is now Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln of Cullman. Long-Lewis purchased all assets, including the real estate, and will also retain 100% of the Eckenrod employees. This adds

Do you have news to share about a business in Hoover or the greater Birmingham area? Let us know at starnesmedia.com/business-happenings

Hoover Sun is spotlighting local businesses in print and online. Submit your business for consideration here: go.starnesmedia.com/business-spotlight

about 50 additional new employees to the Long-Lewis Automotive Group, bringing the total employee count to about 900. Long-Lewis now has 11 dealerships in eight cities across the state. Long-Lewis recently celebrated its 137th anniversary and announced additional plans to strategically expand throughout Alabama. 205-989-3673, longlewis.com

All locations of Hero Doughnuts & Buns restaurants in Alabama, including the one at 1013 Marble Terrace in Stadium Trace Village, have expanded their hours and now are serving dinner. The new hours are from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. New menu items include fried pork chop sandwiches, fried bologna sandwiches and cucumber tomato salad. Hero Doughnuts & Buns also has locations in Homewood, Trussville and Railroad Park in Birmingham. 205-502-2807, eatathero.com

PERSONNEL MOVES

Tim Burke has been promoted to president of Apex Roofing & Restoration after serving less than two years as the company’s chief financial officer. In his new role, Burke will oversee the company’s strategic initiatives, focusing on growth and operational efficiency. Additionally, David Andrews has joined the company as executive vice president and chief financial officer, bringing more than 20 years of experience in building private, equity-backed, multi-site service businesses in the health care and transportation sectors. Apex is headquartered at 4601 Southlake Parkway 205-685-0040, apexroofs.com

ANNIVERSARIES

Rest and Digest Wellness has been providing services in Southlake Village for one year. The business offers deep relaxation services that “aid in achieving the Rest and Digest response of the parasympathetic nervous system.” These services include massage therapy, infrared sauna, LED light therapy, wellness packages and more. Customers can go online to book an appointment on Monday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 205-739-1160, rest-digest.com

The Lee Branch location of Sanpeggio's Pizza has been serving customers for one year now. The original Sanpeggio's location opened in Chelsea in 2000, and the local chain now has five other locations. Every pizza is hand-tossed and made to order, complete with homemade sauce, quality meats and cheeses and locally sourced veggies. Diners can stop by the Lee Branch location Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 205-709-8585, sanpeggiopizza.com

Customers have been enjoying JaWanda’s Sweet Potato Pies for one year at the bakery off Valleydale Road. Owned by JaWanda Jackson, the business is family owned and operated. JaWanda’s sells sweet potato pies in 15 flavors, along with various pound cakes, cobblers and other seasonal items. The bakery also has a food truck that makes stops during the week around town. The only time to visit the bakery itself is on Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 205-874-9880, jawandasweetpotatopie.com

Hoover alum’s business elevates golf fashion

By STAFF

Bryant Smith, a Hoover native and 2014 Hoover High School graduate, has launched bluecaddie, a golf apparel brand dedicated to combining style, comfort and performance for golfers of all levels. Based in Irondale, Smith officially started his business on July 29, 2023, with a focus on high-quality, breathable hats designed for golfers who want a modern look and advanced UV protection. The brand strives to cater to both amateur and seasoned golfers, offering products that prioritize comfort and durability without sacrificing style.

“Our brand distinguishes itself with innovative designs and attention to detail,” Smith said. “We offer stylish, comfortable hats that stand the test of time, while also building a community of golf lovers who share a passion for the game.”

bluecaddie has gained attention for its focus on functionality and modern aesthetics. The company plans to expand its product line, adding more hat styles and colors, as well as launching a new line of apparel that includes polos and quarter-zips.

The son of a former University of Alabama quarterback and Crimson Tide gymnast, Smith’s vision is to create a brand that represents excitement, camaraderie and style both on and off the course. “Wearing bluecaddie symbolizes your passion for golf, no matter your handicap,” he said. Visit bluecaddie.com or follow them

on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok at @bluecaddie to learn more about their products and upcoming releases. For inquiries, call bluecaddie at 205-907-7802.

GET TO KNOW

Then Again owner Stacy Condo

By STAFF

Stacy Condo owns and runs Then Again used clothing store in the Lorna Brook Village shopping center.

Q: Tell us briefly about your business.

A: We have been here since 1998. We started our business in Tuscaloosa in 1995 and moved here to Hoover in May of 1998. We have women’s, men’s and children’s gently-loved clothing and shoes. We also do designer handbags and jewelry.

Q: Give us your 30-second elevator pitch.

A: We are family-oriented and owned, and we really get to know our customers, and they’re like family to us. I’ve made so many friends over the years here at Then Again, and our customer service, friendliness and helpfulness really set us apart from everybody else. Not gonna get that kind of customer service anywhere these days.

Q: What else sets you apart from your competitors?

A: Unlike most of our competitors, we are a one-stop shop here at Then Again. We have men’s, women’s and children’s items all under one roof in one store. We have a kids’ corral. Nobody else has that. You can let your children come and play at Then Again in the kids’ corral while you look. It’s secure. The side over there on the kids’ side is locked, so you can browse away while your children play.

Q: How did you get started in the business?

A: We were poor students at the University of Alabama trying to figure out what we’re gonna do with our lives. And my sister-inlaw had the great idea: Why don’t we start a consignment shop? So that’s what we did. We started our consignment shop there in Tuscaloosa in Bama Mall on McFarland Boulevard in 1995, and then we moved to University Boulevard in 1996, and then we put this location here in Birmingham in 1998. And the rest is history.

Stacy Condo, owner of Then Again used clothing and goods store in Hoover. Photo courtesy of Stacy Condo.

Bryant Smith, a 2014 graduate of Hoover High School, wearing a hat from his startup golf apparel company, bluecaddie. Photo courtesy of bluecaddie.

Sips and Bites

Metro Diner manager Misti Cooper

By STAFF

Inverness Plaza along U.S. 280.

Q: Tell us about the restaurant.

A: We are a small, locally owned franchise where we value our team members and guests alike. We want everyone who walks in the door to feel a part of the Metro Diner family, and we spend time getting to know them as if they were family. We’re where the locals eat since we serve breakfast, lunch and dinner all day.

Q: What’s your favorite part about working in the industry?

A: People celebrate wins, special occasions, losses; they catch up with old friends; they spend time with their loved ones, all around food. There’s something special about serving someone a great meal. That has to be my favorite part of the industry.

Q: What is your favorite item on the menu and why?

A: The Bissell Breakfast all the way. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory. It’s a two-egg breakfast with all the trimmings and a short stack of pancakes.

Q: What sets you apart from your competitors?

A: Our local feel. We have two Birmingham locations, so we aren’t too big to spend

time getting to know our guests. It allows us to connect to people on a more personal level. And, our variety of menu options also allows us to cater to just about any craving

Hoover Sun is spotlighting local restaurants in print and online. Submit your restaurant for consideration here: go.starnesmedia.com/restaurant-spotlight

Chengdu Cuisine opens with Sichuan flavor

By JON ANDERSON

A new Chinese restaurant has opened in the former Mandarin House Chinese Restaurant location on U.S. 31 in Hoover.

The new restaurant, called Chengdu Cuisine, at 1550 Montgomery Highway, Suite O, opened Sept. 1. It specializes in Sichuan cuisine, which is a type of food from the Sichuan province known for its spiciness, resulting from the liberal use of garlic and chili peppers as well as the unique flavor of Sichuan peppers.

The restaurant is owned by Leo Li, who has spent about 12 years working in other Chinese restaurants, including some in New York City and the last five or so years in Alabama. His most recent job was at The Great Wall Chinese Restaurant on Valley Avenue in Birmingham.

Li, a 30-year-old who lives in Vestavia Hills, said he moved to Alabama because he has other friends and family who live here. He decided to open this restaurant because he has been working for other people for so long and wanted to open his own business, he said. Also, he doesn’t believe other Chinese restaurants in Hoover specialize in Sichuan cuisine, he said.

Some of his signature dishes include crispy spicy chicken, fish

in a

and

in a

Chengdu Cuisine has about 5,000 square feet and seats 142 people, Li said. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. For more information, visit chengdu birmingham.kwickmenu.com.

filet

hot spicy broth

spicy chicken

flaming pan, he said.

Spicy chicken in a flaming pan is one of the signature dishes at Chengdu Cuisine in Hoover. Photo by Jon Anderson.

Misti Cooper is the new managing partner at Metro Diner, located at

Misti Cooper is the new manager of Metro Diner on U.S. 280. Photos courtesy of Misti Cooper.

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Nowlin & Associates celebrates 50 years of service

As Nowlin & Associates celebrates its 50th anniversary, founder and CEO emeritus Charlie Nowlin reflects on the journey from 1974 to 2024, recalling the struggles and growth that have marked the wealth management firm’s history.

Starting in Homewood, in a world far different from today, Nowlin’s firm has thrived by adapting to constant industry and economic changes.

“When we began, the services and products we offered were much simpler,” Nowlin said. “We started with life insurance, annuities, and disability income policies. Then, in the late ‘70s, equities became a major player, and we all had to adapt. Over the decades, financial planning evolved, and we evolved with it, thanks to the great people we have.”

Nowlin attributes the firm’s long-standing success to having the right people on the team, emphasizing that no single person can be an expert in every facet of financial services. “You grow with motivated people who understand the business, and that’s how we survived and thrived.”

Nowlin’s career in the financial world began after graduating from Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis) in his hometown. After a stint in the Army, where he became a tank commander, Nowlin entered the corporate world before finding his true calling in life insurance. In 1974, he came

to Birmingham to manage an office, and what was initially a career move became a lifelong commitment to the community and people he served.

“We grew a family here, and Birmingham became a part of our lives,” said Nowlin. “I had opportunities to go back to Memphis, but Birmingham was home.”

Nowlin & Associates serves clients across Central Alabama and beyond, helping people build their wealth and secure their futures through strategic

plans customized to meet their goals. “It’s important for people to know who you are, what you represent, and how you’re involved in the community,” said Nowlin. The firm’s approach has always been to build relationships and help people protect, grow and enjoy their wealth.

Justin Craft, who joined the company in 1997 and now serves as president, plays a vital role in continuing that mission. Nowlin sees continuity and adaptability as key to its ongoing success.

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“What worked 10 or 15 years ago may not work today,” Craft noted, “but as long as we keep building relationships and adapting to change, we’ll continue to serve our clients well.”

Nowlin’s pride in his company’s legacy shines through, especially when he talks about the people he’s worked with and the clients he’s helped over the years. “We’ve built a family here,” he said. “And I’m just delighted with the team we have, both past and present.”

As Nowlin & Associates marks this milestone, the firm’s focus remains on providing ethical, client-centered financial solutions — ensuring that, in another 50 years, it will continue to be a trusted partner for those seeking financial security.

Is it ever too late to start?

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago,” Craft said with a smile. “The next-best time is today.”

Nowlin & Associates can be reached at 205-871-9993 and is located at 2718 20th St. S. in Homewood.

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING

CONTINUED from page A1

Carol Jones, an associate professor of marketing at the University of Alabama, said Hartley is not the only one thinking about the Christmas shopping season in terms of the upcoming presidential election.

“The presidential election could impact spending. There was a dip in spending before and after the 2020 election,” said Jones, who researches retailing and retail strategy. She said she expects there could be some effects surrounding the election this year, too.

“Depending upon the election results and Americans’ response to it, we could see some fluctuations with the economy that impact Christmas spending,” Jones said.

In general, people are more concerned about money right now, she said, explaining that the majority of Americans — about 77% — have a negative or neutral outlook about the economy.

“This is going to impact the average person’s shopping experience. Shopping is less fun when you’re more concerned about money, the economy, politics, etc.,” Jones said.

But she said on the flip side, “with it being a difficult year for many, people may use retail therapy as a pick-me-up to end the year.”

Holiday shopping can somewhat be predicted by back-to-school and back-to-college shopping, Jones said. Last year was a big year for retail spending, but so far, 2023 isn’t trending that direction, she said.

“This year, we spent less than we did in 2023 going back to school, so the growth might be smaller this year than it was last year,” she said. “We will still see more spending than we saw in 2021 and 2022, but there’s a chance spending grows less than it did for 2023 Christmas, and there’s a good chance we actually spend less than we did in 2023.”

Even so, she said some outlets are still predicting a record year for spending, as holiday spending has generally been increasing the past few years.

“I’ve heard a lot more people express financial concerns, so I have my doubts it will be a record-breaking year, but we know consumers are

unpredictable, so I’m not saying it’s impossible,” Jones said.

Benjamin Meadows, an assistant professor of economics in the Collat School of Business at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, said the “current forecasts are mixed — with inflation settling down, it could lead to buyers’ confidence being boosted.”

“On the other hand, if large numbers of consumers have not received cost-of-living adjustments, then the ‘bite’ of inflation remains, leading to less discretionary spending … and therefore retail shopping,” Meadows said.

He said in all likelihood, this year could be on par with last year.

“With the Federal Reserve’s recent cuts, we should see some positive economic indicators. This could lead to stronger sales numbers, but that remains to be seen,” Meadows said. “ Hopefully the buying experience will be the exact same as last year, meaning inflation has finally cooled down, and prices are similar year over year.”

Nan Baldwin, president and CEO of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce, said she believes holiday shopping in Hoover’s retail establishments “will see an increase in sales this year, just like several national consultants are predicting.”

“Hoover offers a wide range of unique and distinguished shopping alternatives,” Baldwin said. “Shoppers can satisfy their Christmas wish list with big-ticket items, like purchasing an automobile or home appliance, to small one-of-a-kind specialty gifts from one of our many locally owned boutiques.”

Also, people want to “experience the joy of the holiday season by being in a festive atmosphere that you can’t get when shopping online,” she said. “Our diverse selection of culinary cuisines and restaurants are another treat for holiday shoppers.”

Jones said another factor that may affect shopping this year is the calendar itself. With Thanksgiving falling on Nov. 28, the shopping window between Thanksgiving and Christmas will be shorter than other years.

“People will be shopping earlier to have more time to try and find those good deals,” Jones said. But shoppers may be feeling more stressed about having less time, so “retailers are going to have to make shopping fun to get consumers into the holiday spirit,” Jones said.

One way Stacey Sparks is doing that at Apricot Lane Boutique in Chace Lake is to hold a “Pink Friday” sale, a sale geared toward encouraging local shopping on the Friday before Thanksgiving.

“We want people to come in the week before with their friends and family — there will be great things there to purchase for gifts,” said Sparks, who owns and operates the store.

At Apricot Lane, they offer a wide range of clothing — “mom and daughter kind of shopping,” she said, “all the way from early 20s to 60s and 70s. There’s a good variety of clothing for everyone — jeans, sweaters, tops, dresses, earrings, jewelry. We have unique offerings you won’t find anywhere else.”

Dear Prudence in Patton Creek will be moving to the Village at Knox Square in the new year. To keep shoppers engaged with the location changes and sales, owner Prudence Kauffman uses Instagram to create brand awareness for their fall and winter clothing. In her “Pru’s Picks” videos, she demonstrates outfit pairings from the store.

“We got in some of the most amazing things, " Kauffman said in a Pru’s Picks video. “This is probably one of the most amazing collections we’ve got in so far. It’s so full of life and color.”

Alabama Goods has a wide variety of handcrafted items and foods, which offers “a different shopping and gift-giving experience,” Hartley said. “The feedback we get from our customers is that they feel good shopping with us. They get something unique they can’t get anywhere else, so they feel like they found something special.” That, plus the fact that they are supporting Alabama crafters and artists, makes each gift a “feel-good purchase,” Hartley said.

She’s hoping this Christmas shopping season will continue to be a good one for Alabama Goods. They also will be open Thursday, Nov. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. as part of Stadium Trace Village’s holiday open house.

– Savannah Schmidt contributed to this story.

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CONTINUED from page A1

At the heart of the proposed “tech corridor” transformation are the vacancies that sit within the city limits of Hoover: the Meadow Brook Corporate Park and Inverness Center.

In the late 1970s and 1980s, developers bought up large swaths of land up and down U.S. 280, coinciding with the expansion of the highway to four lanes. What had been a two-lane road that would be considered rural just a few years before was booming with new construction.

Developers were able to fill their office buildings. Rust International, a large engineering firm, called Meadow Brook home but was bought by Raytheon in 1996. Raytheon ultimately left the park. Inverness also saw one of its largest tenants, Southern Company Services, leave in 2018 for the Colonnade.

Combined with the downturn in occupancy of commercial real estate after the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has been looking for ways to attract businesses along U.S. 280.

“We have all of this empty office space, so we need to attract office tenants and specifically technology companies,” Pruett said From Grandview Medical Center down to Mt Laurel, there is approximately 4 million square feet of office space in the city, and 20% of that is vacant, he said. Pruett said the city’s vacancy rate was 3 to 4 points higher than the national average.

City officials have been looking to transform the area for several years, but last year they commissioned a study for $150,000 from the Waymaker Group, which specializes in technology-based economic development, to look at revitalizing Meadow Brook.

The city received the recommendations from the group this past July.

The city tasked Waymaker with taking inventory of regional assets for attracting businesses, quantifying the existing strengths of the surrounding area for the tech industry and to “revitalize Meadow Brook for top regional prospect attraction.”

The group identified several sectors that are growing and would lend themselves to being targeted by economic development recruiters: telecommunications, nano technology and software publishing.

The city already attracted McLeod Software, with more than 600 employees, to Meadow Brook, which moved to the park in 2018 and then expanded last year.

When it came to real estate, Waymaker recommended working with property owners to create an improvement district, with new events and activities to take advantage of existing common areas, and integrate a trail system in the area.

Greg Knighton, the economic development manager for Hoover, said the city was concentrating on U.S. 280 not only because of the vacancies left at the office parks, but also because it’s where the workforce is.

“I think one is certainly the vacancy. That’s a given,” Knighton said. “The other is that from a talent [perspective,] that zip code — 35242 — has one of the strongest concentrations of technology talent in the metro area, so if you put that talent close to

“We know it’s going to take time, but you’re already seeing it happen from the companies’ standpoint,” he said. TECH CORRIDOR

the workplace, it’s a winning combination.”

For those who moved into the area, Meadow Brook provided an attractive site with room to improve.

Hunter Strickler is the vice president for OHD, which tests respiratory safety masks for fit. The company moved into Meadow Brook at the end of September, buying a building at the park.

He said the company had mapped where current employees lived, which gave them a target area of where to move. They then began talking with the economic development team at the city of Hoover.

“They had sort of given us a little bit of a picture of what their vision for Meadow Brook is in the future. The building that we’re in now ended up being really kind of a great match in terms of size. It’s a standalone building. It was for sale. We ideally preferred to purchase instead of lease, and so it all kind of came together at the right time,” Strickler said.

Pruett said companies are looking for different types of workplaces, reflecting the change of work not only since the 1980s, when Meadow Brook was built, but also since the pandemic and the ascent of remote work.

“Especially for an environment where you’ve got flexible and distributed work, where people can work remote or work anywhere, if you’re going to have an office, it’s got to be highly amenitized,” Pruett said.

That could mean more parks and walking trails or repurposing office parks to a mix of business and residential.

“When we started talking to some of these companies that have moved over there or other companies that we’ve recruited who have considered moving over there, they want a lot of the amenities that you have in more urban settings,” Pruett said. “Frankly, they want walkability. They want the change to go get a cup of coffee from a neighborhood coffee shop or go get a beer after work. And so really what that looks like is a mixed-use environment coming into a traditional office environment.”

It’s an appraisal Strickler shares.

“There are a lot of nice spaces popping up in various suburbs around the Southeast that are multi-use, and you can work, play, even live in the same general area. And I think there’s a quality-of-life element to that that is really powerful,” Strickler said. “You don’t waste a ton of time in traffic, and your commute is lower, and you can get everything right in your backyard, so to speak. And I think that’s an attractive thing for young workers and young families.”

There is some room for improvement, Strickler said. For instance, he would like a trail system that would connect their building to other parts of the park. Pruett recognizes the challenges and says any transformation will take time.

“We’re seeing people want to move there, but we have a long way to go in creating that environment because it hasn’t really changed that much. It’s still office buildings, and some of these owners have invested a lot of money

“There are a lot of nice spaces popping up in various suburbs around the Southeast that are multi-use, and you can work, play, even live in the same general area. And I think there’s a quality-of-life element to that that is [...] an attractive thing for young workers and young families.

HUNTER STRICKLER

”in the interiors of the buildings. But you walk around and it’s a nice lake, and it’s a nice place, but it can be something a whole lot different,” Pruett said. “And that’s kind of our long-term vision.”

Pruett said the city is also concentrating on other areas like Inverness, where there they will be adding more mixed-use space to the area vacated by Southern Company, including 350 new multi-family housing units.

“So even though we kind of first started out as Meadow Brook being the center of some of this new reinvestment, Inverness is actually the first to see it, which is great,” Pruett said. “We need that in all of these office parks.”

The vision will take time, Knighton said, but they see progress in achieving their vision.

Above: Stephen Springfield’s dog, Riley, plays in Meadow Brook Corporate Park off of U.S. 280.

Left: The entrance to Meadow Brook Corporate Park off of U.S. 280. The businesses established in this area include several successful tech companies.

Photos by Savannah Schmidt.

Spain Park QB: ‘I want to change this place’

By GARY LLOYD

Brock Bradley had to head downhill just to climb.

Bradley was a Berry Middle School eighth grader when Tim Vakakes was hired as the Spain Park head football coach, and when he requested a one-on-one meeting with the new coach, he had to descend that hill from Berry Middle School, cross Jaguar Drive, and end the walk at Spain Park High School.

He wanted to learn more about the former Jackson-Olin head coach, to plan for their futures together as coach and player.

“I told him from the jump, ‘I want to change this place,’” Bradley said. “’I know you want to change this place, but I want to help you do that.’ It’s been really cool over the years working with him. He’s pushed me in so many different ways on and off the field.”

Bradley grew up a Spain Park kid. He played every offensive skill position, as well as linebacker and safety on defense. But in eighth grade, he started to lock in on his future as a quarterback, likely a topic he discussed in that first meeting with Vakakes.

“It’s my passion, and just feeling like you’re leading guys and being the guy that if someone’s not lined up right or can’t get a formation right or something like that, you’re the calm in the storm, as Coach V would say,” Bradley said. “That’s really the coolest part for me, just being that leader on the field, kind of that player-coach.”

eight-game losing streak against the Bucs. They are a playoff team again for the first time since 2017, looking for their first playoff win since 2015.

“Just a 1-0 mindset every week has been big for us, and I just feel like this team is different this year,” Bradley said. “We really expect to win every game we play. We have that championship mindset. It really speaks volumes to what Coach V has been able to do for us and this coaching staff, and I think the biggest difference this year is just the community. It feels like they’re so involved, and you can really feel it when you walk through the halls Monday through Friday. Any time you have a community behind you like that, it makes my job and the players’ job a little easier.”

Bradley earned a scholarship offer from Clemson University on Aug. 15 and committed six days later. It might seem a quick trigger, but Bradley has attended football camps there since sixth grade.

“I think that’s what led me to be able to make that decision so early,” he said.

Spain Park posted a 3-7 record in Vakakes’ first season in 2022. Last season, the Jaguars finished 7-3 in Class 7A and just missed making the state playoffs for the first time since 2017.

Spain Park has only fielded a team since 2002 but has reached the state championship game twice: the Class 6A game in 2007 and the Class 7A championship in 2015. The Jaguars came up short in both.

But it’s been different lately. Spain Park won its final five games of the 2023 season, with four of the five wins in Class 7A, Region 3. Back in Class 6A this season, the Jaguars have been one of the best teams in Alabama. They beat Hoover for the first time since 2015, breaking an

Thinking back to his first interaction with Vakakes, Bradley said he walked out of that meeting knowing the duo’s future plan. That future is now.

“So far, we’ve executed that plan, and it really feels like we’re changing this place,” Bradley said. “And we’re not done yet.”

Spain Park QB Brock Bradley (5) attempts a pass during a game between Spain Park and Helena on Sept. 13 at Husky Stadium in Helena. Photo by Todd Lester.

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EVENTS

High school art teacher wins Bluff Park Art Show

By JON ANDERSON

An art teacher from McAdory High School won Best of Show at the 2024 Bluff Park Art Show on Oct. 5.

Danielle Tickell, who has taught art at McAdory for five years, captured top honors with a painting designed to show the connections between families and houses. It shows two large veins, like those that pump blood into the heart, feeding into the base of a two-story house, much like a root structure.

The house has some imperfections, much like families do, Tickell said.

“A home is not perfect, and the people that are in it are not perfect, but it’s those people that kind of make up the family,” she said. “There are a lot of dings and dents, and a lot of things fall apart on a regular basis, like it does with our family also, but I love it.”

The judge for the art show loved Tickell’s work.

“I don’t know a ton about her or the work, but just seeing it visually was an incredible thing,” said Rod Bigelow, the executive director and chief diversity and inclusion officer for the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Ark. “It just pops off the canvas. It’s gorgeous. She’s a very technically astute painter, so it’s really great.”

Tickell was one of about 120 artists chosen for this year’s show. A significant number were from Alabama, but others accepted into this year’s show came from Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, Virginia, Indiana, Texas, Kentucky and Rhode Island.

Thousands of people flooded into Bluff Park Community Park for the 61st year of the show, which is put on by the Bluff Park Art Association. The show ran from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and made it through the day with sunshine

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Visitors wandered through the park, browsing the artists’ tents as live music was played by James Quackenbush and Alice Bargeron. A kids’ art corner managed by Girl Scouts gave children a chance to make their own creations.

Showgoers also had a chance to partake of food and drinks from G.R.’s Smokehouse, Chicks N Donuts, Birmingham Wings & Waffles, Alabama Peanut Co., Cookie Fix, Kona Ice and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee.

Bluff Park residents Jim and Darcy Terry were among the crowd and said they always love it when they’re able to come to the show. “There’s just so many cool things,” Darcy Terry said.

They don’t necessarily come to see a particular artist; they mostly like to browse and see what they can find each year, Jim Terry said.

This year, they left with a painting by Juanita Weldon of Tyrone, Georgia, a wool cover-up by Loretta Brown of Silverhill and three paintings of gummy bears by Katie Adams of Birmingham. They bought the gummy bear paintings for some of their younger grandchildren, who love Black Forest gummy bears.

Tickell won $2,500 for producing the best in show winning entry, but a total of $10,800 was given out in prize money this year. Here’s a complete list of winners:

► Best of Show ($2,500): Danielle Tickell, Hueytown, 2D/3D mixed media

► Show Judge Award ($1,800): Ahmad Austin, Alabaster, painting

► Bluff Park Art Association President’s Award ($1,000): Bill Bowen, Charleston, Indiana, ceramics

► August A. and Cary Moore Memorial Award ($1,000): Brittany Carol Moore, Birmingham, photography/digital

► Sara Perry Memorial Award ($1,000): Paveen Beer Chunhaswasdikul, Gadsden, ceramics

► Hugh Dye Memorial Award for best new artist ($1,000): Mark Harris, Anniston, woodworking

► Bluff Park Art Association Board of Directors Award ($500): Chelsea Bird, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, jewelry

► Bluff Park Art Association Board of Directors Award ($500): Sundi Hawkins, Pell City, painting

► Hoover Arts Alliance Award ($500): Steve Carmichael, Riverside, painting

► Henly Hager Award ($500): Michelle Prahler, Decatur, Georgia, 2D/3D mixed media

► People’s Choice Award ($500): Hannah Lewis, Montevallo, printmaking

Diana S. Knight, CPA, CVA

Jeff W. Maze, CPA, MA

Jason Lybrand, CPA, MBA

Left: Danielle Tickell with her best in show “Vanitas House 3: Rooted,” an acrylic and pen on canvas piece, at the Bluff Park Art Show in Hoover on Oct. 5. Above: Bill Bowen’s ceramic work won the President’s Award. Photos by Savannah Schmidt.

2024 Moss Rock Festival to spread love of nature, art, sustainability

By CARMEN SHEA BROWN

The 19th annual Moss Rock Festival returns to the Hoover Metropolitan Complex on Nov. 2-3, once again celebrating art, nature, design and “smart living.”

The festival will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3. Co-director Alex Kunzman said this year’s event will offer a new perspective as it is moving to a newly renovated upper lot in front of Hoover Metropolitan Stadium.

“We’re excited about moving it there,” Kunzman said. “The space will be about the same size, but it will be configured differently so people won’t have to walk as far.”

More than 100 juried artists who re-purpose objects from the environment into their work will be selling their creations. The featured artists for this year will be Levi Levinson and Jordan Thompson of Bendy Knees Design.

“They not only paint with a brush, but also use a tablet and technology,” Kunzman said. “That hybrid, collaborative and versatile approach to art and design is very Moss Rock Festival.”

Other participants scheduled to attend include:

► Freshwater Land Trust, which has partnered with the Moss Rock Festival since the festival’s inception in 2006. The nonprofit, among other environmental stewardship work, manages the Red Rock Trail System, which has nature trails, parks and bike lanes that connect through central Alabama.

► Foxhound Bee Company, which will feature supplies and equipment for beekeepers, honey and possibly an observation hive.

► Cool Green Trees + Jefferson County Greenways, which will educate participants about native trees in Alabama and will have a

tree giveaway that people can enter.

► The Shelby Humane Society, which will be on-site with cats and dogs available for adoption.

► The Ebenezer Swamp Project, a printmaking exhibit of about 60 acres of wetlands that is part of the University of Montevallo campus.

The festival also will have a WonderKid Studio, where young artists use nature as their inspiration for creative projects, some based on the “Year of Alabama Birding.” This year’s Planet Project, called “Ripple Effect: Our Watershed Connections,” will feature sculpture projects by school children that reflect on Alabama freshwater fish in watershed habitats.

From dusty to digital.

Collin Williams, an art professor and director of new media at the University of Montevallo, will share knowledge about sustaining trees and various pollinators in Alabama as part of his “Take Root: A Tree Legacy Project.” Visitors can also pick up seeds to plant.

The festival also will feature a Smart Living Market + Sweetery that will offer products for the home, body and health. Some expected food vendors include Over the Top Toffee, Scooty’s Apples (gourmet caramel apples), Chicken & Sweets Southern Yardbird (locally sourced seasonal jams) and Gitts Bajan Pepper Sauce.

There also will be a beer garden tasting event featuring local, regional and national select craft brews, wine sampling, live music

Ticket Information

Tickets are available in advance online at mossrockfestival.com or at the gate during the festival.

► In advance: $12 per adult (includes entry Saturday & Sunday)

► At the gate: $15 per adult (includes entry Saturday and Sunday); kids 18 & younger free BEER GARDEN

► In advance: $35 (order by Nov. 1) for adults 21 and older. Ticket includes festival entry Saturday and Sunday, plus a 13-ounce commemorative Belgian tasting glass (advance tickets are guaranteed the 2024 glass design)

► At the gate: $45, adults 21 and older

and more. Planned food trucks include Eugene’s Hot Chicken, Uncle G’s Pizza, Red Diamond Coffee & Tea, Hey Bebe and Rae Rae’s Catering.

Scheduled entertainment includes the Starlings, Orange Bunny, Dala Dance Co., Iron Giant Percussion, Wyrd Arts Group Bellydance Collective, Mad Hatter Dance Co., Cheyloe & Kyle, Rebecca Egeland, Bob Marston, Americana’s Grandson and an Alabama School of Fine Arts jazz ensemble. For more information and updates, visit mossrockfestival.com.

Guests walk through different booths during the annual Moss Rock Festival at the Hoover Met Stadium parking lot in November 2023. Photo by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

EVENTS

Hoover events guide

All Month: Visual Art Exhibition — Curtis Shannon. All day. Hoover Public Library, Friends Gallery. This program is exhibition only and does not include an opening reception. See visual art by Curtis Shannon and witness how his studio practice uses photography, analog/digital collage and assemblage to investigate places he has seen and how it felt. For more information about the exhibit, visit events.hooverlibrary.org/event/11078178. You can learn more about Curtis Shannon and his art on his website, cshnn.com/one.

Nov. 2-3: Moss Rock Festival. Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hoover Met parking lot, 5500 Stadium Trace Parkway. Bring the family to experience this fall festival in its 19th year. Expect to see artists, designers and other craftsmen working with natural materials; shop from a variety of local vendors selling body, home, and other products; and enjoy food trucks and other confections from local bakers and chefs. Enjoy live music and performances on the Crescent Stage, the Wonderkids Studio and more. In addition, the beer garden is back for its 13th year and open both days beginning at 12:30 p.m. Separate tickets must be purchased for the beer garden, and the ticket includes a commemorative glass, more than 50 craft beers to sample, snacks, the option to watch football in the “man cave” and two-day admission to the festival. Beer garden tickets cost $35 until Nov. 1 and $45 afterward. General admission tickets include admission both days and cost $12 in advance or $15 at the gate. Kids 18 years and younger are free. For advanced ticket purchases and more information, visit mossrockfestival.com.

Nov. 7: Live on the Plaza — The Onlys. 7-8:30 p.m. Hoover Public Library Plaza. Enjoy live music from The Onlys. The band plays a wide variety of music from the 1950s to the present. For more information, visit events.hooverlibrary.org/ event/11318707.

Nov. 9-10: Birmingham Fall Craft and Vendor Market. Saturday hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday

hours are noon to 6 p.m. Riverchase Galleria, 2000 Galleria Circle. Hometown Vendor Market is hosting the fall market, offering shoppers a variety of options from local, independent businesses. Find fashion accessories, clothing, art, decor, crafts, handmade gifts and more. Visit hometownvendormarket.com/birminghamfall for more information.

Nov. 10: The Mountain Grass Unit. 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Library Theatre, 200 Municipal Drive. Come for a live performance of The Mountain Grass Unit, consisting of three pickers from Birmingham (Drury Anderson, Luke Black and Sam Wilson). Expect traditional bluegrass and songs from other musical genres performed with an unique bluegrass twist. For tickets and more information, visit thelibrarytheatre.com/mgu.

Nov. 12: Senior and Veterans Informational Expo. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, 3200 Galleria Circle. Senior citizens, their caregivers and veterans are invited

to this educational and informational expo. Learn more about resources and options for Medicare, long-term care, home care, hospice, sitting services, non-emergency transportation, senior communities and facilities, placement services for home care and facilities, senior real estate specialists, estate planning and more. The Hoover Fire Department will offer blood pressure checks. Veterans Affairs will have its mobile unit available for veteran wellness checks. Keynote speakers are Dr. Marcia Bygrave from Care Connect Training Solution, Karen Spears from Two Oaks Way, Christy Hayes Wilson, Lerone Jackson with the VA, Hoover EMS and Danny Noles from the Noles Group. In addition, the VA will offer information about VA outreach, intimate partner violence assistance program, suicide prevention, healthy living and veteran health records. This event is free for everyone to attend and hosted by the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit business.hooverchamber.org/events/calendar.

Nov. 19: Friend Speed Dating. 6-8 p.m. Hoover Library Plaza. This event is designed to help adults make new friends. Attendees spend two minutes talking with each of the other attendees in speed-dating style. After that portion, participants may have coffee and share a casual activity or craft. Register online at events.hooverlibrary.org/event/11077161.

Nov. 20-23: Market Noel. Thursday hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Finley Center, Stadium Trace Parkway. The 2024 Market Noel is presented by the Junior League of Birmingham. Shoppers can view the digital shopping guide before Market Noel begins and shop in person from a variety of vendors. Food and drinks will be available for purchase on site. Funds raised by the Junior League of Birmingham go to continue local service initiatives and community projects. Adult tickets are $15; children ages 12 and younger are admitted free. For advance tickets and more information, visit marketnoel.net.

Death by 5K returns to Oak Mountain this November

By EMILY REED

If you’ve ever had a running “death wish” — or running in the dark woods in the middle of the night in November on no sleep appeals to you — the Death by 5K race at Oak Mountain will be for you.

The race is a 24-hour challenge where participants run a series of 10 races, with each 5K spaced 2.5 hours apart.

This will be the third year the event has been held at Oak Mountain, with roughly 200 individuals already signed up for the Nov. 23 event. The race had 130 runners last year.

Event organizer Jeremy Jungling, who is also the head coach of RunStrongLLC in Brandon, Miss., said the race is unique for a number of reasons.

“It is challenging in a way that appeals to a wide variety of fitness levels,” Jungling said.

The first 5K begins at 8 a.m. and the last race is at 6:30 a.m. the next morning.

“Ultimately, it is an ultramarathon, but the way it is set up allows people who don’t normally run ultramarathons to participate. We often get people who run often but not ultramarathon lengths, along with Crossfitters, body builders, cyclists, hikers, and more,” Jungling said. “The structure of running a 5K followed by a break allows people to take on a distance that is normally out of reach and makes it possible. More experienced runners will often try to run each 5K at a pace that is challenging for them.”

This challenge is designed to test participants mentally and physically with fatigue, sleep deprivation and running in the dark.

Headlamps, headlights or some other form of illumination for participants is required.

Jungling said there were roughly 100

participants in the first year of Death by 5K, and the event has continued to grow each year.

He said Oak Mountain is the perfect place for the event because there is something available for everyone.

“For our event, the space reserved for our use is absolutely perfect,” Jungling said. “We have a green space for tent camping, a ton of parking, pavilions with power and water and a fireplace, and plenty of bathrooms, including showers. The trail we use for our race is challenging but manageable, and gives runners the feeling of being deep in the woods while staying close. We always stay a few

extra days after the race to enjoy the beautiful park.”

For those interested, in between each 5K, participants will have the option to sleep in their vehicles in the parking lot or to set up a tent in the grass camping field across the road from the parking lot.

There will be five meals offered over the course of the event at various times throughout the races.

All participants will receive an event shirt, and finishers of the race will receive a custom-made miniature coffin.

For more information, visit deathby5k.com.

Death by 5K

► Where: Oak Mountain State Park

► Date: Saturday, Nov. 23

► Hours: First race begins 8 a.m.; last one begins 6 a.m. Nov. 24

► Details: Participants run 10 races in 24 hours, with each 5K spaced 2.5 hours apart

► Web: deathby5k.com

The finishers of the Death by 5K will receive a wooden coffin with a skeleton figurine to commemorate their accomplishment.

Photo courtesy of Jeremy Jungling.

Hoover’s

a

Bucs, Jags searching for playoff magic

By KYLE PARMLEY

For the first time since 2017, both the Hoover and Spain Park high school football teams will be featured in the state playoffs.

Hoover will be in the Class 7A postseason, while Spain Park competes in 6A now. The playoffs begin Nov. 8 and run each week until the Super 7 Championships Dec. 4-6. The state finals will be played in Birmingham at Protective Stadium this year.

Hoover is in the playoffs for the 25th consecutive year and has won 11 state championships in that span. The Bucs have remained among the

state’s best and most recognizable programs since the turn of the millennium.

But last fall, the Bucs failed to reach the third round for the first time in that span. Hoover earned a blowout win over James Clemens in the first round, before suffering the same fate at the hands of Hewitt-Trussville in the following round.

Prior to 2023, Hoover reached the semifinals for five straight seasons, falling to Thompson each time. That stretch came on the heels of backto-back state championships in 2016 and 2017, the last time the Bucs have been atop the sport. It will be somewhat uncharted territory for

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interim Bucs coach Chip English, who qualified for the playoffs once in his previous six years as a head coach in Alabama at Grissom and Albertville. He took Grissom to the 2020 playoffs, falling in the first round. This will be by far the most talented team he has led into the postseason.

Spain Park has fielded a football team since 2002 and will be making the program’s 12th playoff appearance.

In those 11 previous runs, the Jags reached the state championship game twice, finishing as the runner-up in 2007 and 2015. The Jags fell in the first round the last two times they made the postseason, in 2016 and 2017.

This year’s Spain Park team appears to have the potential to make a deep playoff run as well. Head coach Tim Vakakes, now in his third season, will lead the Jags into the playoffs for the first time. Vakakes coached at Jackson-Olin for nine years previously, building that program from a one-win squad to one that appeared in the playoffs three times in his final six years.

Last season’s Spain Park team won seven games, the most for the program since 2016, but failed to qualify for the playoffs by being on the wrong side of a tiebreaker with Hoover.

This fall’s region title is Spain Park’s fourth in program history and first since 2015.

Outfitting Birmingham’s children for over 70 years

Spain Park defensive linemen Aden Walker (9) and Zac Erickson (98) tackle Benjamin Russell quarterback Alijah Johnson (7) during a game against Benjamin Russell on Sept. 20 at Jaguar Stadium in Hoover. Photo by Todd Lester.

Jonah Winston (4) reaches the ball across the goal line for

touchdown during a game between Hoover High School and Prattville High School on Sept. 20 at the Hoover Met. Photo by Barry Stephenson.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Lakeshore Foundation’s Sports Science and Performance Center offers world-class training for every athlete

In January, the Lakeshore Foundation opened its newest addition, the Sports Science and Performance Center (SSPC), with one goal in mind: to create greater disability equity in the sports industry.

SSPC offers a variety of services to help each athlete reach their goals. This begins with their Sports Performance Assessments, which includes body measurements and advanced body composition scans, metabolic testing, cardiorespiratory tests, power assessments and sport-specific assessments.

Lakeshore’s SSPC also offers strength and conditioning packages, with both in-person and remote options. Additionally, they provide personalized nutrition plans and mental performance packages that focus on building a pre-performance routine, concentration and confidence.

According to Terry Schrimscher, the Associate Director of Communications, SSPC serves anyone looking to reach the next level in sports performance.

“It’s tailor-made training for athletes who come in — and they come in from all over the world,” Schrimscher said.

Recently, Schrimscher said a man who was both an X Games and paralympic athlete came all the way from Minnesota, to train at their facility.

“Athletes with disabilities, whether they are training to compete or just wanting to be healthy and active, don’t always have access to the best equipment or access to lot of the advances in science and technology,” Schrimscher said.

“We built this lab with people with disabilities in mind. It’s built around custom training that’s the best available on the market, but it’s open to everyone. So now, every athlete, whether they’re disabled or non-disabled, has access to the same equipment and equal access to it.”

Liz Baker, Team USA paralympian and seven-time world paratriathlon event medalist, visited the new

facility earlier this year. She was there to help her friend, seven-time paratriathlon world champion Aaron Scheidies.

Scheidies was working on filming a TRX video for the blind and visually impaired at SSPC. Since Baker is a visually impaired athlete herself, her teenage son drove her to Birmingham.

While at SSPC, Baker underwent strength testing, balance testing, resting metabolism tests and a Dexa Scan. For athletes with an impairment trying to compete at the highest level, Baker said “there’s nothing like it.”

Lakeshore Foundation

• Where: 4000 Ridgeway Drive

• Call: 205-313-7400

• Web: lakeshore.org

“Their new sports performance section has all of the bells and whistles and the latest technology to help you reach your goals,” she said.

Later, Baker also had a “lunch and learn” in the nutrition lab.

“[It’s] probably the coolest nutrition lab I’ve been in and I’ve been to all of the USOPC centers,” she said.

“This one stands out.”

While Baker and Scheidies worked, Baker’s son received testing, too.

“My son doesn’t have a visual impairment; He’s non-disabled and he plays soccer, and those tests for him were amazing,” Baker said.

Baker encouraged parents of non-disabled children to bring their kids to the facility and support what SSPC is doing, which in turn could open up new avenues for SSPC to fund athletes.

“When you’re talking about being a visually impaired athlete, and racing internationally, if you can’t reach the criteria to make the national team, you’re funding it all for yourself,” Baker said.

“So, [for] places like SSPC to be able to make that an opportunity for you and you still get all that testing … it’s really an asset.”

The Lakeshore Foundations’ SSPC is located at 4000 Ridgeway Drive in Birmingham. They are open weekdays and work by appointment. For more information, go online to lakeshore.org/ sports-science-performance-center.

LIGHTS

Under the Lights

ACCOLADES

Jags volleyball player Reagan Gilbert

By STAFF

Reagan Gilbert is a senior at Spain Park High School. Gilbert recently finished her senior volleyball season.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about volleyball?

A: My favorite thing about volleyball is just the people I get to meet. I love my team and my coaches and, if I wouldn't have played volleyball, it's very unlikely I would have met them.

Q: What’s your first distinct memory that involves volleyball?

A: My first distinct memory of volleyball is when I was around 8 [years old] and my neighbor, who was three years older than me, was doing some passing drills with me. And, at this point, I'd never touched a volleyball in my life, and, probably, the first time I heard about volleyball. But, when we started doing that, I was like, ‘OK, yeah, I want to do this for a while.’

Q: If you could have any meal right now, what would it be?

A: If I could have any meal right now, it would have to be a bowl of fruit. I love fruit, any fruit. Strawberries, bananas, pears, plums, peaches, mangoes — you name it, I'm game.

Q: What’s the best thing about your school team?

Looking for more Under the Lights? Scan the QR code (or go to qrco.de/under-the-lights) to follow us on social media, subscribe to the newsletter and listen to the podcast.

Hoover, Spain Park highlights

By KYLE PARMLEY

► Hoover DB Trey Sanders: Returned a blocked punt 30 yards for a touchdown in the win over Tuscaloosa County on Oct. 11.

► Hoover WR Hunter Purdue: Earned Under the Lights Player of the Week honors by catching three passes for 140 yards and a couple touchdowns, including a 95-yard touchdown catch, in a win over Oak Mountain on Oct. 4.

► Hoover LB Justyn Hartley: Scored on a 19-yard fumble recovery in the game against Parker on Sept. 27.

► Hoover QB Mac Beason: Threw five touchdown passes in the win over Prattville on Sept. 20, completing 17-of-29 passes for 263 yards.

Oct. 4, going for 89 yards on nine carries.

Q: What are you planning/hoping to do beyond high school?

A: Currently, my plans for after high school, I'm gonna go play beach volleyball at Missouri State and, hopefully, do something with pediatric oncology.

A: The best thing about my school team is, honestly, just the culture that we built and how close we are this year. I mean, I love these girls with all my heart, and I think everybody else could say the same.

► Hoover WR Jonah Winston: Caught five passes — three of them for touchdowns — for 175 yards in the win over Prattville on Sept. 20.

► Spain Park RB Dakarai Shanks: Ran the ball 19 times for 134 yards in a win over Chelsea on Oct. 10.

► Spain Park RB CJ Cowley: Scored a couple touchdowns in a win over Pelham on

We strive to provide the

► Spain Park WR Corey Barber: Caught six passes for 175 yards and a touchdown in a win over Pelham on Oct. 4. He’s gone over 200 yards multiple times as well, including 202 yards and three touchdowns in a win over Benjamin Russell on Sept. 20.

► Spain Park TE Ryan Breazeale: Caught four passes for 28 yards and a couple touchdowns in a comeback win over James Clemens on Sept. 27.

Spain Park’s Reagan GIlbert (10) bumps the ball during a game against Chelsea on Sept. 17 Photo by Savannah Schmidt.

Hoover’s Trey Sanders (6) makes a tackle during a game against Hewitt-Trussville High School on Sept. 13 at Hewitt-Trussville High School. Photo by Barry Stephenson

Faces of Hoover

Vintage hat showcase entertains Hoover Service Club

Photos by SAVANNAH SCHMIDT

Barbara Henry presented a series of vintage women’s hats for the first Hoover Service Club meeting of 2024 on Sept. 12.

As a club member, Henry helps uphold their mission to aid students and the Hoover community residents in need.

“An important part of my life has been service,” Henry said. “I loved the organizations and people supported by HSC. It was a way to work with smart, dedicated women to make a difference in our community.”

Donning a flapper dress, Henry entertained the ladies with songs and fashion facts from the decades. The hat show spanned from roughly 1890 to 1990, depicting how the 1900s economy and culture influenced clothing design.

Most of the collection belongs to her mother, Betty Rollins, whose love for fashion inspired her to construct a historical showcase.

“I remember my grandmother and mother wearing hats when I was little,” Henry said. “You weren’t dressed if you weren’t in a hat, gloves and high heels. Mother had boxes and boxes of hats. She’d have tea parties with my daughters and bring out her hats, many of which were my grandmother’s.”

Henry closed with lyrics from a 1939 Vera Lynn classic, “On behalf of my mother, show creator Betty Rollins, we want to thank you, and ‘We’ll meet again.’”

Barbara Henry, left, and her mother, Betty Rollins, present a history of women’s hats.

The women of Hoover Service Club wear their hats for the Vintage Hat Showcase. Contributors to the Vintage Hat Showcase during the Hoover Service Club meeting on Sept. 12 at the Hoover Country Club.

Barbara Henry, left, and Debbie Rutherford.

Hoover gives final salute to mysterious ‘Galleria Elvis’

By EMILY REED

For decades, Ronald Freeze was recognized as a frequent mall walker at the Riverchase Galleria and Brookwood Village whose unusual look led people to call him the “Galleria Elvis.” When he died in August and had no family members claim his body, the community took notice.

Trish Garmon, a resident of Alabaster who grew up in Hoover, assumed the role of next of kin and launched a GoFundMe account to raise money to cover his burial expenses, and the campaign raised more than $7,000.

Hoover City Council President John Lyda arranged to have members of the Hoover police and fire departments serve as pallbearers, and the police officers on Sept. 25 escorted Freeze’s hearse from the funeral home to Galleria Circle for one last lap around the mall before his burial.

Traffic along John Hawkins Parkway stopped as the hearse passed through the area, with several bystanders waving. Two U.S. military honor guard members performed a flag-folding ceremony for Freeze, who served as a sharpshooter for the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1971, and presented the American flag from Freeze’s casket to Garmon.

“I think for me, Mr. Freeze embodied what I felt like a grandfather figure should be,” Garmon said. “I wanted to honor him in a way that would be meaningful and that he would be proud of. If you grew up in Hoover or you spent any time at the Galleria the last three decades, you likely saw him, and when I heard about his situation, I knew that I needed to step up and help in some way.”

Freeze was widely recognized for his distinctive look. He often sported a mesh trucker hat lightly atop his head, with dark sideburns

Above: Ronald Freeze was a fixture at the Riverchase Galleria in Hoover, frequently seen walking through the mall. He died Aug. 26, at the age of 81. Photo courtesy of Personas Facebook page. Right: An undated photo of Ronald and Joy Freeze and their two daughters, Bethany and Leslie. Photo by Emily Reed.

and a jet black beard. When not walking the malls, he often would be seen at either the Hoover or Vestavia Hills libraries.

While Freeze was seen by many people, he remained a mystery because he kept mostly to himself in the very public places he frequented daily. Reddit threads appeared online several years ago with people seeking details about him.

Since his death at age 81, interviews revealed a man who grew up in affluent social circles and lived the life of a successful traveling beauty product salesman, but who suffered tragic personal losses that dramatically

impacted his life.

In 1985, his wife passed away at the age of 40 after a battle with ovarian cancer. After her death, Freeze assumed the role of both “mom” and “dad” to his two young daughters, Bethany and Leslie. Both girls later worked at the Riverchase Galleria. Leslie was employed by Security Services as a manager, and Bethany was employed with the Parisian department store for more than 10 years in the customer service department.

In 1998, Freeze’s mother, Florine Freeze, died, and then in 1999, both of his daughters died from different forms of cancer.

Lee Williams, Freeze’s nephew in Slidell, Louisiana, said the amount of tragedy that struck Freeze forced him to retreat.

“He just had so much sadness that hit him with the loss of his family that it really affected him for the remainder of his life,” Williams said. “I think the reason he walked that mall and spent so much time there is because he was a broken man who missed his family dearly. The one thing in his life that reminded him of them was that mall. He had all of the foundation for a classic all-American, and ultimately he lost his heart when all of his family died.” Read more about Freeze at hooversun.com.

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By STAFF

Life in Hoover

Betty Daigle is a retired educator and longtime volunteer with numerous organizations in the city.

Q: Tell us a bit about you.

A: My name is Betty Daigle. I am a retired educator. I moved to Hoover in 2006 to be close to my son's family and, most importantly, my granddaughters. Since moving to Hoover, I've been able to be a volunteer at Aldridge Gardens and Riverchase Elementary School. I've been a member of the Hoover Service Club, and I've also been honored to be a member of the Hoover Beautification Board.

a teacher. It was my favorite game to play. I was lucky enough to be able to go to college and become a teacher, and throughout our moves from different states, I was always able to get a teaching job and advance my career to becoming a teacher trainer and an administrator. I was very fortunate to have a long career in education.

Q: What’s something about you that people might be surprised to learn?

Q: What’s the best part about living in Hoover?

A: I think the best part of living in Hoover are the wonderful people that you meet. It's a very welcoming community, and there are many opportunities to meet people throughout the community through civic organizations, through volunteerism, through activities at the library, the Senior Center, the Rec Center. There are just so many things for residents to do. It's a very convenient and warm place to live.

Q: How did you decide to pursue your career?

A: As a young child, I always wanted to be

A: I guess it would surprise people to know that when I graduated from high school, I was presented the Betty Crocker Award, which was a trophy of a lady — I guess Betty Crocker — holding a pie in her hand. I love to cook, but I don't think I have ever made a pie in my life, and I think I earned that award because I was a good home economics student, but not because I ever was good at baking.

Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

A: I sure would like to be about 3 inches taller. But in all seriousness, at this point in my life, I just wish I had more time and energy to pursue the things that I love. Being with my family, being of service to my community, being involved in activities at my church and in my community — that's what means the most to me, and that's what I wish I could do.

COMMUNITY

By JON ANDERSON

The top photo shows the Employers Insurance Co. building that was built in the Green Valley area in the 1950s, after William Hoover Sr. began buying land along U.S. 31 south of Vestavia Hills in conjunction with the widening of the highway between Shades Crest Road and the Cahaba River.

It was the first business in the development known as Hoover, according to “A History of Hoover, Alabama and its People,” published by the Hoover Historical Society. Employers Insurance Co., owned by William Hoover, relocated to the 20,000-square-foot building from Birmingham in 1958. Some employees left the company rather than have to commute that far south of Birmingham, according to the book.

The Hoover Court shopping center opened right next to Employers Insurance Co. in 1961. Employers Insurance Co. moved to Riverchase in 1986. Today, the former Employers Insurance building holds the Jefferson County Department of Revenue satellite office, Axe House Billiards and the Steel City Emergency Vet clinic.

Betty Daigle

Employers Insurance Co.

first business

development known

Hoover when it opened

this 20,000-square-foot building in 1958, prior to the incorporation of the city of Hoover. Photo courtesy of Jim Langley. Above: The same building today holds the Jefferson County Department of

COMMUNITY

Building a higher road

Miss Hoover shines spotlight on ALS

By LAUREN H. DOWDLE

One of the people who has had the greatest impact on Emma Terry’s life is someone she has never heard speak: her grandfather.

Her grandfather Stewart Simpson, whom she called Grandy, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS, right before she was born and lived with the disease for 22 years. He died this past April at 86.

As Miss Hoover 2025, Terry said she hopes to continue sharing his story and supporting others like him who have ALS. Through her community service initiative, Stomping Out ALS One Step at a Time, Terry raises awareness about the disease and funds to battle it.

“The time I had with him was such a gift,” Terry said. “It was so hard not just for me but for my entire family to see the disease progress the way that it did. As I was becoming more independent, he was becoming more dependent on me and my family.”

Terry said she never saw him walk on his own, and one of her earliest memories of her grandfather was helping him get out of the floor when he fell. Her grandfather used an iPad and dry erase board to communicate, sharing his wisdom, stories and love for sports with her. As a caregiver for someone with ALS, Terry recalls how those experiences helped shape her.

“It’s taught me how to be a resilient person because I saw someone who I loved most in the world fight every single day,” Terry said. “He was never going to give up that fight. To see him be able to smile through a disease like ALS taught me to be grateful to walk, talk and appreciate the independence I have.”

Terry grew up about five minutes away from her grandparents’ house in Odenville and said she was often there more than she was at her own home. She spent summers with them, practiced cooking with her grandmother and learned a lot about life. One important lesson her grandfather taught her was to build a higher road and leave the world a better place than how she found it.

“It’s the motto I live by,” Terry said. “You don’t build that higher road for yourself. You build it for others and the community.”

She has had the opportunity to share about her grandfather and his fight against ALS as a participant in many pageant competitions. In addition to winning Miss Hoover 2025, Terry also was named Miss Jefferson County 2024, first runner-up for Miss UAB 2023 and first runner-up for Miss Alabama 2024.

While her grandfather was never able to watch her compete on stage, Terry said he was proud of all she accomplished.

“He would give me the double thumbs up,” Terry said. “That was Grandy’s stamp of approval.”

That also included the work she did to raise funds and awareness for ALS. Her service initiative started

when she posted her video doing the ALS “ice bucket challenge” in her grandparents’ driveway. Since then, she has raised funds by being a team leader for the ALS Association’s Walk to Defeat ALS in Birmingham each year and hosted events like the annual Drive Out ALS Cruise-In at The Shops of Grand River.

Terry also held a high-performance car race called Stewart’s Race: Racing for ALS at Barber Motorsports Park in August, which attracted more than 100 drivers and raised about $35,000 in one weekend.

Terry said her grandfather loved cars, so the events seemed like the perfect fundraisers to honor him. Even though her grandfather is

no longer with her, Terry isn’t slowing down with her efforts to support ALS patients and research. In July, she participated in the ALS Association’s CEO Soak in Huntsville, which raised $55,000.

Terry’s involvement with the CEO Soak helped the group surpass their participation and fundraising goal, said Janet Thorn, the managing director of care services for the ALS Association.

“Emma is always willing to participate in any event we have to raise awareness of ALS and funds to assist people living with ALS,” Thorn said. “Working with Emma is delightful as she always brings positive energy and a smile.”

Having cared for her grandfather during his battle with ALS, Terry is able to pull from her own life to help others — something that shines through in her work, Thorn said.

“Her personal experience with ALS … lends much credibility and zeal as we work to find a cause and cure for this devastating disease,” Thorn said.

During her time serving as Miss Hoover, Terry will have the chance to reach more people in the community and beyond.

“I’m so honored to be able to share my grandfather’s story,” she said. “It’s so easy to take really hard moments and get lost in them. But you have to keep the compass going

was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS, and lived with the disease for 22 years before his death this April. Terry honors his memory by advocating for others struggling with the disease.

“It’s so easy to take really hard moments and get lost in them. But you have to keep the compass going in the right direction and keep going even though it’s hard sometimes. It’s a new chapter, and I’m honored to get to tell [my grandfather’s] story.

EMMA TERRY

”in the right direction and keep going even though it’s hard sometimes. It’s a new chapter, and I’m honored to get to tell his story.”

From ALS fundraisers to community events, residents will have the chance to see Terry around town and beyond during her time as Miss Hoover.

“I am so encouraged to see the support this incredible city shows the title holder,” Terry said. “I’m very excited about sharing about Stomp Out ALS in Hoover and providing more educational resources.”

Follow her reign as Miss Hoover and her ALS work on Instagram at @MissHoover2025 and @StompingOutALS.

Above left: Emma Terry, at age 6 or 7, with her grandfather Stewart Simpson on his front porch.

Above right: Terry takes a selfie with her grandfather at his house in July 2022. Photos courtesy of Emma Terry.

Left: Emma Terry, crowned Miss Hoover 2025, holds a photo of her grandfather Stewart Simpson. Simpson

Photo by Savannah Schmidt

On the Mainstage

SPOTLIGHT

Bluff Park artist Kerry Leasure

By STAFF

Kerry Leasure is an artist in Bluff Park who creates jewelry from vintage materials, antiques and found objects, using a combination of collage, assembly and manipulated resin techniques to create jewelry that tells a story.

Q: What are some of your influences?

A: My influences — my work is actually a combination of just a love of antiques and being a former English major. So, you know how your professor would ruin every word in a poem, telling you like it wasn't a cat, it was mist or whatever the symbolism was? Basically, my brain now does that with tiny things, and I put them together to tell a tale.

Q: When did you first discover you had a talent for this?

A: When I started, I actually wasn't very good at it. It was just like silly trinket bracelets and junk on chains, and there was no depth of meaning. But I started deconstructing things further and kind of analyzing what I was doing, and eventually, it became what it is now.

Q: Where can people see your work?

For more arts and entertainment news, connect with Hoover Sun online: visit our website, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.

Birmingham Dance Theatre teaching for more than 60 years

By CHARLES VAUGHAN

Birmingham Dance Theatre, located in The Centre at Riverchase shopping center across from Hoover City Hall, has seven studios.

Founded in 1962 as Nora Nash Dance Studio, the company became Birmingham Dance Theatre in 1984, when it moved to its current location.

Children ages 2 and older can enroll at Birmingham Dance Theatre, which offers a selection of classes ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Older students can specialize in classical dance styles such as ballet, tap and pointe, as well as modern dance styles such as contemporary and hip-hop. All genders are welcome to take classes, and Birmingham Dance Theatre also offers a boys-only hip-hop section that focuses on breakdancing. Annual recitals are held at the BJCC, and parents are invited to watch classes on select days.

Q: What’s something interesting about you that people may not know?

A: Cauliflower — I hate it. Why are people trying to make it a thing? It is not rice; it is not pizza crust. It doesn't taste good with buffalo sauce on it. White vegetables should not be a thing. There's just no reason on God's green earth to eat cauliflower.

A: Primarily at art shows, but I'm cutting way back this fall and not doing many. There's a curated selection of my work at Alabama Goods. There is a larger selection at the Kentuck Art Gallery. And, actually, you can come to my house and create right here in Bluff Park. Just email me: hereachickthereachick@ gmail.com.

Higher-level dancers are eligible to try out for the studio’s competition team, which travels around the Southeast to attend conventions, but students looking for a lower level of commitment can continue to take classes recreationally. Dancers of all ages can also participate in summer classes, which range from weekend-long camps to six-week sessions.

Birmingham Dance Theatre is at 1694 Montgomery Highway, Suite 200, and is open on weekdays. Dancer evaluation forms and registration forms can be filled out online at bdtdance.com.

The Hoover Sun is spotlighting local businesses online and in print. If you’d like to be considered for inclusion, contact Jon Anderson at janderson@starnesmedia.com.

Kerry Leasure at the Panoply Arts Festival in Huntsville in April. Photo courtesy of Kerry Leasure

Students in the middle-age company rehearse choreography at Birmingham Dance Theatre this year. Photo by Erin Nelson Sweeney.

At UAB Medical West, our number one priority is to offer quality, convenient care for those in West Jefferson County, AL. Currently offering emergency care, two health centers in Hoover, and a brand new state-of-the-art hospital just down the interstate, UAB Medical West is committed to being here for you and your entire family. It’s one more way we can offer quality, compassionate care near you.