Enjoy Hoover - July/August 2023

READY

EDITOR’S NOTE

Dear Friends,

Summer has always been my favorite time of the year. As a child, it was partly due to having a summer birthday. Pool parties, homemade birthday cakes, and presents were imminent. I also grew up in South Alabama, where trips to Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island are a common way of life.

Birthdays and beach trips aside, I’ve always thought that summer has a certain energy to it. And, if we lean into it, life starts to feel less urgent. Schedules become less rigid. Our expectations relax. In our home, this looks like evening swims in the neighborhood pool, ice cream after dinner (page 10) and week-night movie nights.

We hope this issue inspires you to put on the feeling of summer. Maybe it’s an overdue date night (page 23), a fun family outing (page 18) or celebrating Hoover’s annual Restaurant Week (page 6) – a can’t-miss local event complete with special menus, a burger competition and a bartender challenge!

Our city boasts many opportunities to cultivate summer fun. With this magazine as your guide, it’s time to get out, make some memories and Enjoy Hoover!

Happy Reading,

Kim Cripps, Editor

Enjoy Hoover is your guide to dining, entertainment, and shopping in Hoover, Alabama’s sixth largest city. From major events like the SEC Baseball Tournament, the World Games, and the Regions Tradition, to local live music, to hidden gems in local shopping, to the world-class lineup of restaurants, Hoover has tons to offer to residents, guests, and visitors alike.

Enjoy Hoover is published six times a year, a joint venture between David Cohen of the Hoover Restaurant Alliance, Matthew Allen of JBMC Media, and Mitzi Eaker of Mitzi Jane Media. These three longtime Hoover residents blend a passion for their community with years of experience in communication, publishing, marketing, and hospitality.

Copies of this magazine are available at more than 100 locations throughout Hoover. Connect with us through our social media channels: Instagram (@EnjoyHoover) and Facebook ( @EnjoyHoover). Visit us online at EnjoyHoover.com.

We hope you Enjoy Hoover!

Kim Cripps, editor kimcripps@gmail.com

David Cohen, co-publisher (205) 213-3617, enjoyhoover@gmail.com

Matthew Allen, co-publisher (205) 617-9609, matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Mitzi Eaker, co-publisher (205) 862-0629, mitzijanemedia@gmail.com

Michelle Salem Haynes, marketing consultant (205) 381-1311, michelle@jbmcmedia.com

ABOUT THE COVER

Hoover Restaurant Week is back for its fourth year, with lots to showcase in the world of food and beverage in Hoover. Featured on the cover is a craft cocktail at Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen, one of the many HRW participating restaurants this year. Photo by Shelby Graves, Tre Luna Bar & Grill.

The path to mending her heart began

Dajialyn was born with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and at 3 months old was placed on the waiting list for a heart transplant. When her foster parents got the call to care for her, they never hesitated – and in July 2021, they received the call with the news she would get her new heart. Within hours she was at Children’s of Alabama in surgery. Her transplant was a success, and Dajialyn is walking, talking and doing all the things that keep parents of any toddler on their toes.

Hoover Restaurant Week

A month of fun, food and drink

BY MITZI EAKER

Welcome to the vibrant culinary scene of Hoover, Alabama, where a treasure trove of local restaurants awaits your exploration. With an impressive selection of over 200 restaurants, Hoover offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure during the highly anticipated Hoover Restaurant Week—an

annual celebration that captures the essence of the city’s culinary prowess while supporting its thriving local restaurant industry.

From July 1–23, Hoover Restaurant Week will offer expanded offerings this year to ensure an immersive experience for food enthusiasts. Let the festivities begin with the sizzling BBQ and Burger Showcase, taking place from July 1–5. Engage with fellow food lovers on social media as you share photos of your favorite BBQ and

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PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHNNY BRUSCO’S PIZZA

At Medical West, we know how valuable your time is when it comes to an emergency situation. That’s why we opened the state’s first Freestanding Emergency Department. With shorter wait times than the average hospital-based emergency room, our board-certified physicians and staff are here to provide quality and convenient emergency care for you and your entire family.

When an emergency strikes, don’t waste time waiting.

For information about Medical West’s Freestanding Emergency Department, scan the QR Code or visit us online at medicalwesthospital.org.

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burger creations and participate in the exciting voting process for the most delectable dishes.

THE BARTENDER CHALLENGE

For those seeking to tantalize their taste buds further, the Bartender Challenge awaits. On July 11 and 13, the East and West sides of Hoover will host thrilling bartending competitions, showcasing the skills and artistry of local mixologists. The pinnacle of the challenge, the Bartender Challenge Championship, will take place on July 18 at the renowned Merks, located within the elegant Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel. Be mesmerized by the flair and creativity displayed by these talented bartenders as they vie for the coveted championship title.

A NEWS-WORTHY KICK-OFF

Mark your calendars for July 14 as Fox 6 brings the Hoover Restaurant Week Kick-Off to Veteran’s Park. Join the live broadcast in the morning to meet esteemed chefs and passionate restaurant owners, gaining insights into their culinary inspirations and the stories behind their mouthwatering creations. It’s an opportunity to connect with the culinary visionaries who make Hoover’s dining scene truly exceptional.

A WEEK OF SPECIAL MENUS

Indulge in the true essence of Hoover Restaurant Week during the traditional week-long celebration from July 14 to 23, when participating restaurants will offer specially curated menus that showcase their culinary expertise and innovative flavors.

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Kabob-Licious on Montgomery Highway.

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To discover the array of options and plan your epicurean journey, visit the official website of Hoover Restaurant Week at www. HooverRestaurantWeek.com. This valuable resource provides a comprehensive guide to the participating restaurants, their unique menus, and the exciting specials they have in store for you.

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

This year, National Ice Cream Day falls on July 16, right in the middle of Hoover Restaurant Week! Hoover’s The Whole Scoop invites you to indulge in an ice cream eating competition. With various age categories, this delightful event brings together locals and visitors alike to revel in the joy of everyone’s favorite frozen treat.

Prepare yourself for a month filled with delectable culinary experiences during Hoover

Restaurant Week. Discover the flavors that define Hoover’s thriving food culture, support local businesses, and embark on a journey of taste and exploration. For more information and to stay up-to-date with the latest happenings, visit www.hooverrestaurantweek.com. Let your taste buds guide you through the culinary wonders of Hoover, Alabama. Bon appétit!

Jake’s Soul Food Cafe on John Hawkins Parkway.

Clean Eatz in Brock’s Gap.

We all scream for ICE CREAM

BY CARMEN BROWN

There’s always a good time for ice cream, especially in the heat of a Southern summer. But in July, there is an incredible opportunity to take part in National Ice Cream Month, and on the third Sunday of the month, National Ice Cream Day. And, yes, they are legitimate holidays, signed into being by President Ronald

Regan in 1984.

The presidential proclamation, proclamation number 5219, says ice cream is a nutritious and wholesome food, enjoyed by over 90 percent of the people in the United States.” Who are we to argue?

Celebrate ice cream all summer with frozen treats at these Hoover shops:

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La Sabrosita on Lorna Road

Birmingham family welcome to the new local business located on 3057 Lorna Rd, Suite 103 Hoover

Free Initial consultation!!!

Paloma Jimenez started her massage therapy career in Mexico then came to the United States and furthered her career in Birmingham

School of Massage where she received her certification.She practiced massage therapy for 12 years and then she decided to grow her business and got extensive training and certifications in body contouring and attended National Laser Institute. That is where her love for the aesthetics field began and she is now offering some of the best treatments in the market

Paloma Jimenez and her two beauty technicians offer several services such as Trilift, Cryoskin , Cavitation, Radio frequency and Pre operative and Post operative massages. These treatments are for anyone who is trying to reawaken their natural beauty or needs a little extra help reaching their goals. They have some of the best equipment in the market. This team strives to help clients get the best results. Their team has done extensive training to have the knowledge to teach their clients about the service they are getting. At Top Body Contouring they have the only Trilift machine in Alabama. Trilift utilizes Dynamic Muscle Stimulation so you can achieve an effect similar to a face lift without any needles or downtime.

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THE WHOLE SCOOP IN BROCK’S GAP

1021 Brocks Gap Parkway, Suite 105

Monday – Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Sun. from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

When David Cohen left the corporate world 12 years ago, he wanted to open a restaurant, but wasn’t sure what kind. His daughter suggested ice cream, and he’s glad he listened. “No one is ever in a bad mood here,” he says. And with 44 flavors, including sugar-free, non-dairy and a vegan milkshake, how could they be?

The Whole Scoop with celebrate National Ice Cream Month with jokes, games, specials, and an Ice Cream Eating Contest on July 16. The contest will have two categories: 14 and under and 15 and up. Entry is $25, which includes six scoops of ice cream, a donation to Hoover Helps, and potential bragging rights.

K & J’S ELEGANT PASTRIES AND CREAMERY IN ROSS BRIDGE

3601 Market Street, Suite 101

Tuesday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

K & J’s downtown location was so popular that owner Kristal Thomas began serving ice cream and baked goods from a food truck in Ross Bridge two years ago. The response was so positive that when restaurant space in the neighborhood became available, she knew it was time to expand her business. Known for their 14 flavors of Colossal Milkshakes, Thomas says the most popular flavor is the Blue Monster. “Blue Bell is our provider, so it’s like their Cookie 2-Step (cookie dough and Oreo) dyed blue,” she says.

K &J’s plans to celebrate National Ice Cream Month with daily specials in midJuly. Connect with K & J’s Elegant Pastries on Facebook for up-to-date information on specials and events.

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K & J’s Elegant Pastries and Creamery in Ross Bridge

The Whole Scoop in Brock’s Gap

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LA SABROSITA

3702 Lorna Road

Monday – Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

La Sabrosita is well-known for its nieve – a water-based, Mexican frozen dessert that comes in a variety of flavors like grape, bubble gum, cantaloupe and coconut. Similar to ice cream, but without the milk, nieve is made by mashing fresh fruit together with sugar, salt and ice. The result is a treat that is icy and frosty, much like the snow it is named for.

The shop also offers traditional milk-based ice cream. Customer favorites include rice milk, coffee, blueberry cheesecake and banana split.

MAGIC MILKSHAKES & MORE

2801 John Hawkins Parkway

Monday – Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Magic Milkshakes & More is owned by Hoover residents, Monti and Shana Osman. “We have two boys, and they were always wanting to go get a milkshake after their games, and we like making ice cream creations at home,” Shana says. Their sons, and their collective love for ice cream, inspired them to open their own ice cream shop last December.

Magic Milkshakes offers 24 flavors, the most current popular flavors being the M3 (Oreo and

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Magic Milkshakes & More on John Hawkins Parkway

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vanilla) and the SEC (cookies and cream with whipped topping). “Blue Bell gave us different flavors, so we just started experimenting,” she says. The shop also features several fun arcade games and is a hot spot for private parties, baby showers and other special events.

SWEETFROG IN LEE BRANCH

250 Doug Baker Boulevard

Monday – Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Lee Branch location of sweetFrog opened in August 2016. A “create your own” soft-serve, frozen yogurt shop, you choose your own combinations of flavors and toppings. And there are so many toppings—candy, cookies, fruit, syrups, and of course, whipped cream and cherries.

If you’re looking for non-dairy-based treats, they have you covered with vegetarian and gluten-free options. While you’re there, you may even run into their mascots, Scoop and Cookie!

sweetFrog at Lee Branch

SECONDHAND SUMMER

Consignment Shopping at Style Encore

BY KIM CRIPPS

There’s a story in family lore that my mother likes to tell about my keen eye for fashion – one that developed along with other baby milestones, like talking and first steps. My first words were, “Buy more,” and upon feeling my aunt’s new fur coat, two-year-old me asked,

“What’s this?” “Mink,” my aunt said. To which I replied, “Mink? I like mink!”

Over the years, my affection for mink has given way to something even better – the love of a great deal, especially on designer pieces. This is why I was so excited to discover Style Encore, a women’s consignment shop that

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Photos courtesy of Style Encore in Inverness.

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offers a wide variety of styles.

Dominique Douglas, the store manager who helped open the Style Encore franchise in Inverness in 2017, was inspired by the concept of resale by Plato’s Closet, one of the store’s sister brands.

“After discovering Plato’s Closet, I grew to love the idea of shopping resale. I found amazing items at great prices for my teenagers (at the time),” she said. “When the concept of Style Encore came about, I was so excited because it is everything I love about Plato’s Closet but curated for me!”

Designed for the everyday woman who loves fashion, we offer a wide variety of styles and brands that cater to every budget, so you are sure to find something you love at a price you love, too. “We sell Target on up to Louis

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PHOTOS BY LANCE SHORES/CITY OF HOOVER

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Vuitton,” said Dominique.

Instead of paying full price, shoppers will find gently used modern styles at prices that are more affordable than buying directly from name-brand retailers. Dominique loves that her customers can find their favorite pieces at fantastic prices. “Just imagine the joy you would have finding a sold-out dress in your size and a new pair of jeans from your favorite brand,” she said. “It’s the best!”

Items for the store are purchased from local

sellers. Each piece is carefully assessed for style, condition and demand. And the best part? Anyone can be a seller! The Style Encore team accepts sales daily and pays cash on the spot. It is a fun way to earn extra money and update your wardrobe.

Ready to find new summer favorites? Style Encore is located at 640 Inverness Corners. They are open Monday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Stay tuned to their Facebook and Instagram pages, where they post new styles almost daily at @StyleEncoreInverness.

SUMMER BUCKET LIST

10 Kid-Friendly Ideas for Summer Fun in Hoover

BY KIM CRIPPS

Summer is in full swing. And so are the energy levels of children looking to enjoy their time off from school to the fullest! Whether you are a local looking to put a fresh spin on your summer plans or visiting and want to see the best this city has to offer, we think you’ll enjoy our Top Ten Family Activities located right here in Hoover. From the free to the tasty and the just plain fun, there are plenty of opportunities to make summer memories while enjoying Hoover.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTI BRAUD PHOTOGRAPHY. Moss Rock Preserve

MADE IN BLUFF PARK

cutting boards | Charcuterie trays

bathtub caddies | bed swings

stovetop covers | tables | planters

shelves | bookcases

custom orders accepted

facebook: @deogloriawoodworks

Instagram: @deogloriawoodworks

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CLIMB TO NEW HEIGHTS AT THE FINLEY CENTER

Children aged 5 and up can climb cityscape-themed rock walls at Hoover Heights Climbing Center. Tucked just inside the main entrance of The Finley Center at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, the center offers a safe place to unleash your inner super-hero, scaling and leaping tall building look-alikes in a single bound!

COOL OFF AT THE EXPLORE PLAYGROUND AND SPLASHPAD

A favorite of Hoover residents, the splashpad at the Explore Playground is now open! Put on your swimsuits and sunscreen, and let your children run through multiple sprinklers, sprayers and arches. Sit at a covered picnic table to enjoy a cold drink from the park’s vending machine or bring your own ice chest with snacks and beverages to help beat the heat.

ENJOY A SHOW AT HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Hoover Public Library offers incredible theatre performances and free movies for audiences of all ages to enjoy. Summer shows are offered in the morning and evening hours, depending on the day of the week. Stay tuned to hooverlibrary.org for scheduled plays, music, movies and special events.

FEED THE DUCKS AT ALDRIDGE GARDENS

Tucked off Lorna Road, Aldridge Gardens offers a peaceful, relaxing outdoor experience in the heart of Hoover. Children enjoy walking around the lake, sitting on the butterfly bench and posing with the Tortoise and the Hare. Be sure to bring some change to buy food to feed the ducks, fish and turtles – the kids love to feed them, and thankfully, the wildlife love to eat!

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Magic Milkshakes

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GRAB AN ICE CREAM CONE

July is National Ice Cream Month, and Hoover is the perfect place to celebrate. From ice cream eating contests to Instagram-worthy milkshakes, you’ll find the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Milk allergy? Many local shops offer dairyfree sorbets or ice cream made with oat or almond milk. See our article on page 10 for more details on all our favorite ice cream shops around town.

HAVE AN INDOOR ADVENTURE AT LET’S PLAY

Created with preschoolers and young elementary-aged children in mind, Let’s Play offers a fun, safe indoor (i.e., air-conditioned) environment for kids to run, climb, swing, slide, jump—and the crowd favorite—a dance party. There’s even a small feature with balloons that are being blown into the air for an extreme, never-ending game of keepy-uppy!

PAINT WITH ASHLEY PALLADINO ART

Pudding artists can take make their own art at The Farmers Market at Brock’s Gap. Local artist Ashley Palladino guides children in painting themed art each week. Recent pieces include ceramic unicorns, wooden rainbows, beach bags and small canvases. Ashley’s paint sessions are twice a

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Paint with Ashley Palladino Art

Explore Playground and Splashpad

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month on Saturday mornings and monthly on Tuesday evenings. Check out Ashley Palladino Art on Facebook for the most up-to-date times.

REDISCOVER THE DOG DAYS AT LOCH HAVEN PARK

Furry friends and their human siblings will both enjoy spending time at Loch Haven Park. The park features a playground for children and a fenced, off-leash area for dogs and their owners. The dog park is split into two areas: one for dogs under 35 pounds and another for larger dogs. Both areas feature a canine obstacle course perfect for energetic dogs!

TAKE A HIKE AT MOSS ROCK PRESERVE

There is always something to discover at Moss Rock Preserve, and summer is no exception. Explore some—or all—of the preserve’s 12

miles of hiking trails, check out Boulder Field, dip your feet in a cool stream and hunt for a waterfall. After your hike, head across the street to cool off with a cold drink from Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato or Moss Rock Tacos & Tequila.

TRY FRESH PRODUCE AT LOCAL FARMERS MARKET

It’s farmer’s market season, which means the best summer fruits and vegetables the South has to offer are on full display. This time of year, you’ll enjoy fresh strawberries, peaches, corn, okra and tomatoes. Many Hoover neighborhoods have their own markets with their own social media presence for details on location, times, and current vendors. Local favorites are the Farmers Market at Brock’s Gap, Ross Bridge Farmers Market and The MarketPlace at Lee Branch.

SUMMER LOVIN’

Plan the Perfect Date Night

BY ALAN WEST

Hoover, Alabama, is a treasure trove of diverse activities and experiences that can turn any ordinary date night into a delightful adventure. The city brims with natural beauty, exquisite cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal setting for couples seeking unique date experiences. Follow our guide for a

perfect date night experience:

4:00 p.m. A pre-date visit to Hoover Florist always ensures a great start to a date night. Stop by to select beautiful floral stems and create your own bouquet.

6:00 p.m. The are many options for dining

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BELLINIS RISTORANTE & BAR ON CAHABA VALLEY ROAD.

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in Hoover, from casual barbeque to white tablecloth., fine dining.

Craving pizza? Tortugas Chicago-style pizza is a Hoover staple. It is located across from Walmart on John Hawkins Parkway. Capella Pizzeria is on Highway 280. In addition to the many pizza options, you can’t go wrong with the Gelato or Cheesecake.

If you’re in the mood for barbeque, Hoover has great options. Saw’s BBQ is in the Riverchase Village. Jim and Nick’s is a few hundred yards away on Montgomery Highway. Full Moon Bar-B-Que is located on Patton Chapel Road.

For those wanting an upscale meal, there are several choices. Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen in the Brock’s Gap Shopping Center is a contemporary Italian restaurant known for its unique fusion dishes, warm ambiance, and exceptional service. One can’t go wrong with Firebird’s Wood Fired Grill at Patton Creek. Firebirds offers a variety of steaks, seafood and other traditional American cuisine. Farelly’s Southern Bar and Kitchen offers some of the finest Southern cooking. Bellinis Ristorante and Bar is Hoover’s only Italian steakhouse, and local says it’s the most romantic place for a date.

8:00 p.m. Save room for dessert and head over to Kilwins Stadium Trace Shopping Center. A part of Americana since 1947, Kilwins makes creamy fudge, high-quality chocolates, ice cream, chocolate-covered strawberries and their famous Tuttles. There are no tables inside the restaurant, so grab your treats and take a stroll around the shopping center while you eat.

9:00 p.m. Get ready for late-night fun at one of the city’s many venues for music, movies and laughs.

At Patton Creek, AMC Theaters takes center stage, boasting an impressive ensemble of 15 screens showcasing the latest blockbuster movies.

The Casual Pint in the Grove Shopping

Center is a relaxed taproom offering a wide array of craft beers and light bites in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. There are various trivia nights several times a week. Brock’s Gap Brewing Company also offers many craft beers and on-site yard games to enjoy.

Looking for live music? Gabriel’s Sports Café in River Oaks Village has live bands on Friday and Saturday nights. If you want to sing yourself, Wednesday night is Karaoke night. Moss Rock Taco and Tequila has live bands on Tuesday and Saturday nights.

Long week and needing a good laugh? Head to the Stardome Comedy Club on Data Drive. Over the years, the Comedy Club has featured the biggest names in stand-up comedy.

MAKERS

CHARCUTERIE BOARD

A Tasty Collaboration with Bumble & Brie Charcuterie

BY KIM CRIPPS

Nothing compliments the ease of summer meals like an in-season charcuterie board. We sat down with Rachel Baker, co-owner of Bumble & Brie Charcuterie, for her top tips on creating the perfect summer charcuterie board.

UTILIZE THE SEASON

While the star of any charcuterie board is the cheese, the fruits can make or break a good board. Thankfully, you really can’t go wrong with the colors and flavors of fresh summer produce! In-season, local produce will jazz up the board and create a conversation around the food. Hoover has an amazing selection of blueberries, strawberries, and peaches. We love adding cherries and even chunks of watermelon if serving it immediately.

As for pairings, we recommend brie with

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PHOTO BY BRITTNEY FIELDS | FIELDS PHOTO

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bright fruits like strawberries or blueberries, whereas peaches or apple slices go well with smokey or nutty cheeses like gouda.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SERVING PLATTER

When choosing the right board or tray, grab something with a lip. While the flat boards can be beautiful and offer a deconstructed look, boards with a lip or ridge offer some structure to frame your creation and help keep fruit or meats in place.

If you’re traveling, we love Palm Leaf boards. They offer a natural look but are completely disposable and biodegradable – and we love sustainability! Don’t be afraid to get creative, either. I’ve seen some beautiful boards done on acrylic bathroom trays, Arthur Court dishes and all sorts of unique serving ware. Pick what makes you the happiest!

SAVORY, SWEET, CRUNCHY, TREAT

Creating a charcuterie board should be fun! Be careful not to get overwhelmed by trying to add a tremendous amount of variety. All you need is something savory, sweet, crunchy, and a treat. We try to add at least one of each.

For example, a bright, salty cheese like Costal Cheddar might be my savory cheese. A much-loved sweet cheese is Blueberry Lemon Goat Cheese (from Mont Chèvre). Both pair well with mild meat, such as Trader Joe’s prosciutto. It’s thick enough that you can work with it and fold it fan-style.

We love to add crackers, flavored almonds, and other interesting finds for our crunchy items. And the board wouldn’t be complete without a treat - something chocolatey or indulgent like Ferrero Rocher chocolates, Rolos, praline pecans, or local treats like the Mini Sams from Good Neighbor Baking!

CHOOSE FILLER ITEMS

These items bring texture and fun to your board, so look for color and variety. We love almonds from Sconza Chocolates. They offer seasonal options, but the “lemoncello” flavor is perfect for summer.

Remember to space your colors around the board. You can use pistachios, blueberries, honey-roasted nuts, yogurt-covered pretzels and blackberries, as long as it’s small. Place strawberries and grapes in larger areas. Then, add things that pop in moderation at the end. We love to add some bling with anything in foil like Rolos, Hershey’s Kisses or Ferrero Rocher.

HOW MUCH TO GET?

Plan for 1 ounce of meat and 3 ounces of cheese per person. Our larger board features at least five cheeses, and our small includes at least three. Plan for most people to enjoy an appetizer size portion, but if it’s your main

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course or feature meal, have extra heavier items like cheese and nuts and keep fillers lighter. If you’re brave enough to share charcuterie with children, no amount you buy will ever be enough! Children will devour a charcuterie board before most people can say “charcuterie.” I don’t know what it is, but they eat it all, quickly! When people ask us to make something “kid-friendly,” we leave off the blue cheese. That’s about it - they will down the rest in a flash!

ONE LAST TIP

Always start with your biggest items first. Place them on your board and work your way down in size. Don’t be afraid to add layers! Let some things overlap. It will come out greatjust have fun doing it!

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Bumble & Brie offers monthly classes, from private instruction for a group to themed classes held in the community. Find out more information on Facebook at Bumble & Brie Charcuterie and Instagram @ BumbleAndBrieCharcuterie.

Enjoy Hoover Owners on the Magazine’s First Birthday

BY CARMEN BROWN

About a year and a half ago, local publisher Matthew Allen of JBMC Media contacted me about a publication he was developing called Enjoy Hoover. He saw my LinkedIn profile and said he was looking for writers who would be interested in contributing to this unique publication geared toward residents, visitors and people who are new to the Hoover area. I said yes immediately! I have lived here for 12 years, and Hoover has become a second home for me. I love how the city has a small-town feel while still offering big-city amenities.

It’s hard to believe it’s been one year since this publication launched, and I am proud to say that I was there from the beginning. So, when I was asked to interview Allen and the other owners of Enjoy Hoover, Mitzi Eaker and David Cohen and get their reflections on the past year, I was delighted.

Enjoy Hoover: Tell me how the idea for Enjoy Hoover first began.

David: I started the website [www.EnjoyHoover.com] about two years ago, but for a while, it just sat there. I wanted to start a magazine, but I had no idea where to start. I’ve known Matthew for years, so I talked to him about it, and he said, “Let’s do this.”

Matthew: I was directly involved in starting two other publications in Hoover that are still in existence today, and I’ve lived in Hoover for 18 years. I love this community and the business community we have here. When David launched EnjoyHoover.com, I was happy that he was stepping up to provide a forum for restaurants and local businesses to be highlighted. When he asked me to help start a printed magazine, I couldn’t say no.

EH: What makes Enjoy Hoover different from some of the other area magazines?

Matthew: The magazine is unique in a few ways. First, we chose to hone in on dining, entertainment, and shopping as the focus of the magazine.

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Second, we believe that you can enjoy Hoover if you are a visitor or a resident; you don’t have to fall into just one of those categories to enjoy all the things there are to do in this city.

Mitzi: We’re that go-to source for all the fun things happening in Hoover. What we have complements the other local magazines, but it provides an easy and quick read for someone who may not have time to read an in-depth article.

EH: You’re all longtime Hoover residents. What do you love about the city?

David: Hoover is a great place to raise kids. The schools are outstanding, and there’s a friendly presence of public safety personnel. We have 90,000 people, but we’re a tight-knit community.

Mitzi: We all have a good understanding of what’s happening in Hoover. A lot of people don’t know we have our own comedy club, The Stardome, our own jazz club, Dave & Buster’s, and a PGA Store. I hand deliver magazines to about 20 hotels in the area, and we have the friendliest hotel staff around. Now they see me come in with the magazines in my hand, and they say, “Oh, there she is! We’ve been waiting for it!”

EH: What has it been like working together on this project for the last year?

Matthew: Working with David and Mitzi is a lot of fun. We all bring unique skill sets to the table, and I think it leads to a well-rounded publication that reaches a big audience each month.

Mitzi: I’ve learned so much from Dave and Matthew. We’re the perfect storm of hospitality, marketing and publishing.

EH: What are your plans and goals for the future of the magazine?

Mitzi: We’re in a time now where we can grow and get more advertisers. We have a good understanding of what’s happening in Hoover. We want to have a bigger online presence and have the physical magazine and online version complement each other. We want more pictures of people online out enjoying activities in the Hoover community. They can tag us with #EnjoyHoover.

CALENDAR

There are many opportunities for summer fun right here in Hoover. July brings fireworks and the best restaurants the city has to offer during Hoover Restaurant Week. In August, schools are gearing up for the new school year, but there’s still time for nature hikes, laughs at the Stardome Comedy Club, and of course, high school football!

JULY

July 1-5: Hoover

Restaurant Week

BBQ & Burger Showcase

July 2: Fourth of July Fireworks at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex

July 8: Day of Play at Hoover Public Library from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

July 11: Hoover

Restaurant Week

Bartender Challenge / East

July 11: The Secret Agency, Grammywinning Hip-Hop Artists at the Hoover Public Library; multiple show times.

July 13: Hoover Restaurant Week Bartender Challenge / West

July 14: Hoover Restaurant Week Kick-Off at Veterans Park

July 14-23: Hoover Restaurant Week with Special Menus at Participating Restaurants

July 16: National Ice Cream Day and Ice Cream Eating Contest at The Whole Scoop

July 18: Hoover Restaurant Week Bartender Challenge Championship at Merks

July 21 – July 23: Alabama’s 18th Annual Sales-Tax-Free Weekend for Back-to-School Shopping

AUGUST

August 1-2: Bored Teachers “We Can’t Make This Stuff Up” Comedy Tour at the Stardome Comedy. Show time is 7:00 p.m.

August 5: Monthly Plant Walk at Moss Rock Preserve at 10:00 a.m. Tickets available at https://linktr.ee/ deeprootsschool

August 5: Football Family Fun at the Hoover Public Library from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

August 9: Live on the Plaza: CashBack: A Johnny Cash Tribute at the Hoover Public Library from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

August 10: Hoover City Schools Start Back

August 25: Hoover High School plays Auburn at the Hoover Met. Kick-off time is 7:00 p.m.

August 25: Spain Park High School plays Calera at Calera. Kick-off time is 7:00 p.m.

August 25 – 27: CASC Gun Show at the Finley Center from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily