Hoover's Magazine, Fall 2024

A guide to some of the best local eateries around town.

University of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe leads a youth football camp at Hoover High School.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

It’s the people who make Hoover the community that it is! Here we recognize some of those making an impact on others around them through their businesses.

Once the blistering, sweltering temps of summer have subsided, plan your perfect fall getaway to Charleston, South Carolina, where the low-country plough meets the buzzy, Southern charm of this old-world city. There is much to explore and enjoy.

PHOTO BY BISCUIT BELLY

PHOTO BY BLAIR RAMSEY

contributors

EDITORIAL

Anna Grace Moore

Donald Mottern

Rachel Raiford

Mackenzee Simms

Andrew Simonson

Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

Biscuit Belly

The Budnick Co.

James Culver

Rachel Culver

Theresa Davis

Daniel Dennis

Dawn Harrison

Blair Ramsey

Caroline Rice Bobbitt

Christiana Roussel

Kelsea Schafer

DESIGN

Sydney Allen

Jamie Dawkins

Rowan Futrell

Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Michaela Bankston

Octavia Campbell

Evann Campbell

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Lauren Morris

Viridiana Romero

ADMINISTRATION

Mary Jo Eskridge

Alec Etheredge

Stacey Meadows

Kayla Reeves

Brittany Schofield

Savana Tarwater

Daniel Dennis, Photographer

Daniel is the co-founder and co-owner of Untold Imagery. He’s been practicing photography for many years, but he started pursuing it professionally in 2020. Daniel enjoys being able to compose an image in his mind and seeing it come to fruition through perfect lighting and composition. His primary focuses with photography are travel, food and branding. To learn more about Untold Imagery, follow the business on Instagram at @untold_imagery or visit untoldimagery.com.

Blair Ramsey, Photographer

Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair has two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography.com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.

Christiana Roussel, Writer

Christiana Roussel is a Birmingham-based, award-winning food, travel and lifestyle writer. Naturally curious, she relishes any opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. She is a proud member of the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier as well as the Industry Advisory Board of Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management. Her other interests include bourbon, bacon, a great wardrobe capsule, upland hunting, pork rinds, pilates and power walks that include four-leaf clovers and feathers. Follow her online at @christiana.roussel.

Kelsea Schafer, Photographer

Kelsea is a student at Hoover High School. She lives in Hoover with her family and two dogs, Fendi and Riley. When not in class, she is behind the camera, shooting sports, events or senior portraits wherever possible while running Kelsea Schafer Photography. During her free time, she is often at Lewis Smith Lake, enjoying all things sun, boating and wake surfing with her family and friends.

Hoover’s Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Hoover’s Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Hoover’s Magazine , P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Hoover’s Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Hoover, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit HooversMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting HooversMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@hooversmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

ON THE COVER

JJust as summer gives way to autumn with leaves changing color, so our life experiences change us, challenging us to grow into the individuals we are today. It was during one of these seasonal changes that Bison Ridge Leather Company founder David Byland discovered his love for the American West–its sprawling beauty the epitome of calmness and sincerity.

An award-winning leather worker, David has spent decades honing his talents, creating exquisite works of art out of bison leather, often paying tribute through his designs to the Western frontier. I had the pleasure of watching David win the 2023 August A. and Cary Moore Memorial Award at the 60th annual Bluff Park Art Show last October.

While his artwork speaks for itself, David says his career has been a long one in the making, crediting his life’s experiences for bringing out his inner artist (page 17). Creating this issue, I had the pleasure of interviewing several individuals, learning about how their trials and tribulations forced them out of their comfort shells and into the adaptable heroes of their own narratives.

While the Hoover High School girls soccer team came up short in the Class 7A state soccer championship this past May, the team boasted a record of 21-5-2 during the 2023-24 season, shutting out rivals such as Oak Mountain, Vestavia Hills and Huntsville (page 31). Coach Nick Smith in his interview spoke about the team’s tenacity, fighting to the very end to make one of the greatest comebacks in the program’s history.

The Hartford Nationals, which is the largest and oldest national sports competition for athletes with physical and intellectual disabilities, was hosted partly in Hoover this past summer (page 38). Talking with Kelly Peoples, the city of Hoover’s events manager, I learned that these athletes spend their whole lives living with their unique challenges; however, none of them see their trials as anything other than a few roadblocks on their routes to victory.

In this issue, readers, you all will also get to learn about Biscuit Belly owner-operators Andrew and Rachel Adams (page 39); Cookie Fix founder Amy Jason (page 48); Hoover residents Aubrey and Jeanne Garrison (page 49); University of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe’s football camp (page 59); and our community leaders (page 66). I had the pleasure of interviewing many of these individuals myself, and they all reminded me that the road to success is hardly ever the straight and narrow.

Instead, it is a mountainous path full of peaks and valleys, succumbing one to the worst of each season’s conditions. Although, if one can persevere, he, like the changing of the leaves, will transform into a different person–one who is not only victorious, but also thankful for the seasons he endured on his way to achieving success.

The Western Frontier

David Byland pays tribute to the American Wild West through Bison Ridge Leather Company.

Photo by Untold Imagery Design by Connor Martin-Lively

” “THE QUESTION

What Hoover-area teacher made a positive impact on your life or your child’s life?

Buffy Drake and Hannah Zarzour

-Kelsea Schafer

Lynne Lindsey - Deer Valley Elementary School -Layla Delgado

Sally Payne

-Jodi H. Jackson

Rebecca Suarez -W. David Miller

Jamie Giffin, Adrian Fitchpatrick, Jillian Thomas, John Kincaid, Janet Ort and Trina Busby -Sophie Temple

Sally Payne -Jessica Skinner Snead

Stephanie Watson

-Amber Ajlouny Moss

Hannah Hardy - Rocky Ridge, Tracy WalterShades Mountain -Susan Scales

@hooversmag

Tag us in your Hoover photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

@kelsea.schafer.photos

Last week, athletes from across the country came to Alabama to compete in their respective sports. It was so great to cover this event for @hooversmag and for the second year in a row!

@bliss.by.bailey

Hiii! I’m Bailey! Are you new here? Here’s a mini intro:

* I’m originally from Sheridan, Wyoming

* I moved to Alabama this year

* I’m located @mavenhairco

* I take pride in my work and strive to give my clients the BEST hair & experience in the salon!

#bhamhair #bham #hooveralabama #mavenhairco

@christiana.roussel

New Work Alert: High on Buena Vista (Colorado)

The summer installment of my quarterly travel column is out now. My high school bestie, Heather, planned a great trip last winter - one visit to this mountain town and I knew I wanted to share it with readers. One of my favorite parts of writing this piece was connecting with DOZENS of locals on what they loved best about their hamlet which I put in a sidebar.

HEAD OVER TEAL 5K & 10K

SEPT. 28

8-11 A.M.

The Preserve

The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation’s 15th annual Head Over Teal 5K/10K and Family Fun Day is back this September, honoring GYN cancer patients, survivors and more. The races’ proceeds will benefit the LCBF’s mission to raise awareness of GYN cancers and fundraise for life-changing research. As a special treat, those with “lead race times” will be awarded a Trak Shak gift card. After the races conclude, there will be a family and pet-friendly, fall-themed festival, featuring light refreshments, music, games and activities. Learn more and register at thinkoflaura.org/headoverteal.

THE GUIDE

OCT. 5

The 61st Annual Bluff Park Art Show

9 A.M.-5 P.M.

Bluff Park Community Park 517 Cloudland Drive

Calling all artists and enthusiasts! The Bluff Park Art Show is celebrating its 61st anniversary this year and will feature numerous artists whose mediums including painting, drawing, woodworking, sculpting, metalwork, jewelry-making and more. Admittance is free, and this event is open to the public. Attendees can enjoy live musical performances and delicious food from local food trucks, too. Learn more about this highly-anticipated event at bluffparkartassociation.org.

SEPT. 26-28

Vintage Market Days of Birmingham

TIMES VARY

The Finley Center

Vintage Market Days (VMD) is celebrating its 12th anniversary with a “Firesides and Flannel” theme! Don’t miss this opportunity to shop local vendors showcasing vintage goods, antiques, handmade luxuries, art, jewelry, holiday gifts and more. On Thursday, Sept. 26 from 3-8 p.m., VMD will host an early-buying event. General admission is open on Friday, Sept. 27 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Find more details at vintagemarketdays.com/market/ birmingham/index.php for more information.

AROUND TOWN

SELECT TUESDAYS THROUGHOUT THE FALL

The Night Market at Brock’s Gap Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS IN OCTOBER

The Patch at Helena Hollow 6027 Highway 17

FRIDAYS THROUGHOUT THE FALL

Storytime at the Gardens The Birmingham Botanical Gardens

SATURDAYS THROUGHOUT THE FALL

The Market at Brock’s Gap Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

SEPT. 7

The Tinglewood Festival Orr Park

SEPT. 7

Lifeline’s Run for One 5K 1208 Manhattan Street

SEPT. 14

Celebrate the Family Expo The Finley Center

SEPT. 28-OCT. 31 The Pumpkin Patch Old Baker Farm

OCT. 4-6

Furnace Fest 2024 Sloss Furnaces

OCT. 5

Jimmie Hale Mission Rescue Run

The Curve in Homewood 1830 29th Avenue South

OCT. 5

Run for Resilience Ostomy 5K Fun Run 4101 5th Avenue South

OCT. 11-12

Helena’s Buck Creek Festival Helena Amphitheater Park

OCT. 12-13

Cowboy Weekend

Old Baker Farm

OCT. 19

Trick or Trot 5K

Back Forty Beer Company 3201 1st Avenue North

OCT. 19

Race to the Heights 5K Church of the Highlands Grants Mill Campus

OCT. 26

The City of Alabaster’s 16th Annual Fall Fest Buck Creek Trail

OCT. 27

Bolt for Breast Cancer 2024

Crestline Field at Crestline Elementary School

OCT. 27

The Homewood Witches Ride Homewood Central Park

OCT. 28

Homewood Chamber Golf Classic

Inverness Country Club

OCT. 31

The Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade

Crestline Village

NOV. 2

Mountain Brook Fraternal Order of Police 5K Pig Run and One-Mile Fun Run

3785 Jackson Boulevard

NOV. 7

The Homewood Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday Open House

Downtown Homewood

NOV. 9

UAB Veterans Day 5K

UAB Mini Park

800 13th Street South

NOV. 21

Crestline Holiday Open House

Crestline Village

Hoover High School Varsity Football

Come out to cheer on the Bucs as they tackle this season!

uAUG. 30 vs. Spain Park

uSEPT. 6 at Hillcrest

uSEPT. 13 at Hewitt-Trussville

uSEPT. 20 vs. Prattville

uSEPT. 27 vs. Parker

uOCT. 4 vs. Oak Mountain

uOCT. 11 at Tuscaloosa County

uOCT. 18 at Thompson

uOCT. 25 vs. Vestavia Hills

OCT. 3

Taste of Hoover

5 P.M.

Aldridge Gardens

The annual Taste of Hoover event features some of the best culinary “tastes” in town. Last year, 41 vendors including Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen, K&J’s Elegant

Pastries, 1918

Catering, Brock’s Gap Brewing Company and more delighted attendees with delicious samples of food and beverages. This year, attendees will get to sample some of those same vendors and more, as well as enjoy live musical performances. As of press time, tickets are $45 for Aldridge Gardens’ members or $50 for non-members. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit aldridgegardens.com.

The 19th Annual Moss Rock Festival

TIMES VARY

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex

One of Hoover’s best arts and culture festivals, Moss Rock Festival, is back on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This event will take place outdoors in the parking lot of the Hoover Metropolitan Complex and will feature a huge variety of artists and designers, displaying their crafts. Attendees can browse art mediums including painting, jewelry-making, metalworking, quilting, drawing, woodworking and more. There’s something for everyone at this festival, so don’t miss out! As of press time, admission is $11 in advance or $15 at the gate, but those ages 18 and under get in free. Stay up to date on this event at mossrockfestival.com.

Spain Park High School Varsity Football

Everyone’s favorite Jags are kicking off the season strong!

uAUG. 23 vs. Sparkman

uAUG. 30 at Hoover

uSEPT. 13 at Helena

uSEPT. 20 vs. Benjamin Russell

uSEPT. 27 at James Clemens

COMMUNITY UPDATES

Hoover’s Magazine’s

2025 Wedding Issue

uOCT. 4 at Pelham

uOCT. 10 vs. Chelsea

uOCT. 18 vs. Calera

uOCT. 25 at Chilton County

uNOV. 1 at Gardendale

Calling all newlyweds! Hoover’s Magazine is featuring newlywed couples in the 2025 spring wedding issue. Those who got married in 2023 or in 2024 may be eligible to be featured. Those interested can email magazine editor Anna Grace Moore at annagrace.moore@ hooversmagazine.com for more information on how to be featured.

Market Noel

TIMES VARY

The Finley Center

Hosted by the Junior League of Birmingham, Market Noel showcases more than 100 merchants’ work, including handmade items, art, jewelry, artifacts and more—all of which will make great holiday gifts.

General shopping hours will take place on Thursday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 23 from 9 a.m.5 p.m. Learn more about the Junior League of Birmingham’s mission and this holiday shopping extravaganza at marketnoel.net.

SEPT. 14

Celebrate the Family Expo

10 A.M.-2 P.M.

The Finley Center

Brought to patrons by Benton Nissan and Birmingham Christian Family, the fifth annual Celebrate the Family Expo will feature a celebrity chef stage, a kids’ zone, live music, food trucks, family-friendly games, activities and more. There will also be free shredding services provided by RecylABILITY. To learn more, visit birminghamchristian.com.

ARTS CULTURE&

THE WESTERN FRONTIER

Bison Ridge Leather Company’s handmade works of art display artistic liberty executed at its finest.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

PHOTOS BY UNTOLD IMAGERY

TTimeless craftsmanship yields a rich abundance in texture, rich undertones and smell–and leather work marries such ingenuity with practicality, making it a rare form of beautiful artistry. Local artisan David Byland has mastered such a skill set, showcasing his work to the world through his company, Bison Ridge Leather Company.

However, David did not get his start as a leathersmith until late in life. Even still, he has always yearned to scratch his insatiable creative itch.

A Hiram College alumnus, David majored in theater and later on earned his master’s degree in broadcasting and film at the University of North Carolina (UNC). David has always loved working with his hands, bringing to life beautiful–often unique–works of art from his imagination.

“Back in college, we built a little radio carrier

current station for our high school,” David says. “It would run through the electrical lines, and we could send it out through the PA speakers. We built it in the physics lab. In college, we built a film camera, so we could shoot some films. I was a theater major. We wanted to direct and act in our films.”

If he could dream it, David says he could do it. After graduating from UNC, David went on to attend Capella University and earned his PhD in education curriculum development.

After teaching at several schools, David began teaching at Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) in 1991, where he would spend the bulk of his career. In 2001, David became the president of the Oklahoma Broadcast Education Association.

In 2009, David became the founding editor of the Journal for Media Education. The Journal for Media Education is a peer-reviewed journal

highlighting issues in media education.

David taught at OBU for 25 years and served as editor for the journal for 10 years before he and his wife, Laura, moved to Alabama for Laura’s teaching career. Samford University recruited Laura to teach in the theater department, and David began adjunct teaching broadcasting and film studies at the school, rounding out his teaching career after more than 30 years in the classroom.

During this time, David also became the Alabama Craft Guild’s president–a role in which he has served for the last two years. Yet, out of all David’s accomplishments in his career, it is his pristine leather work that is the most defining.

“I got started probably 20 years ago when we were living in Oklahoma,” David says. “We’ve always gone to art shows. We’ve always supported local artists. We were looking at hand-made, handbound journals in Oklahoma City. I looked at the price of it, and I thought, ‘I could probably make

that.’”

David began buying leather from local shops and puzzling together how to make his own journals, but he wanted to take his creativity a step further.

He and Laura often frequented rodeos, so David began talking with saddlemakers, inquiring about where they source their materials and inspiration for their designs.

“When I started exploring leather work, it was the challenge–part of it was the practicality that I enjoyed,” David says. “I feel like everything I make with very few expectations is something that is to be used. I look for things that are useful. I think that’s one of the things that attracted me to leather work.”

After about five years, David found his footing in tooling leather, fueling his passion for his newfound hobby. David says through a lot of trial and error, he found his niche.

“Overall, the project might be a failure, but you learn from the process,” David says. “I would say

that’s the journey of every artist.”

In his spare time, over the course of several years, David would travel around Oklahoma, performing a one-man show about President Teddy Roosevelt. Each time he performed, audience members would teach him something new about the president’s life and legacy.

In fact, David learned after one performance that President Roosevelt led a nation-wide effort to restore the declining bison population in the U.S. by transporting bison from the New York City Zoo to Oklahoma. It would be this majestic animal for which David would later draw inspiration for his own company, Bison Ridge Leather Company.

While living in Oklahoma, David often took his daughters camping at the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, which has free-range bison, long-horn cattle, elk and more. The refuge’s serenity is a beautiful depiction of the history of the Wild West.

David recalls on one camping trip, bison came through the area where they were camping. When one is in close proximity, he can marvel at the

grandeur–the very size and strength of the animal and how ancient the species is.

Towards the end of a group hike, David’s family saw another bison standing tall on the top of a ridge of a small hill–the very symbol of the species’ permanence through the ages.

“There’s a strength in that timelessness that I want my work to represent,” David says. “It represents those experiences in my life. That’s partly why I use bison leather in a lot of my work. Everything that’s not tooled is bison leather. It’s strong. It’s durable. It’s unique. I love the texture of it. I love the history of it. You look at the leather, and you can see where the bison has maybe been in a fight. It tells the history of the animal.”

Now more than two decades into his craft, David sells his artwork at several Pepper Place markets as well as numerous local art shows. At every show, he sells small bags of leftover scraps he calls “bags of smells,” making sure never to waste any of the product he purchases.

Just as Native Americans respected the generous abundance American bison would provide for their

UPCOMING EVENTS

David Byland will be displaying his artwork at these local markets and craft shows. For a full list of events, visit bisonridgeleathercompany.com.

Bluff Park Art Show

Oct. 5 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Bluff Park Community Park 517 Cloudland Drive

The Market at Pepper Place Nov. 2 | 7 a.m.-noon 2829 2nd Avenue South

The Alabama Craft Guild Annual Fine Art Craft Show

Nov. 9 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Nov. 10 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens 2612 Lane Park Road

The Market at Pepper Place

Dec. 7 | 7 a.m.-noon 2829 2nd Avenue South

tribes, David wants to respect the animal’s leather he utilizes for his work. To start, David sources huge, 9-by-5-foot-long sides of bison leather from American tanneries.

He then sketches out his designs, cutting out the thicker part of the hide for bag straps and belts. Wider portions go towards making totes and leather-bound journals; whereas, smaller, inbetween pieces are great for making wallets.

Having made hundreds of works of art throughout his career, David says it is difficult for him to pick a favorite piece. In October 2023, David entered the 60th annual Bluff Park Art Show and won the August A. and Cary Moore Memorial Award for one of his leather journals.

This journal depicted gorgeously carved red, yellow and orange maple leaves into the outer rim of the cover, so much so that the leaves seemed to undulate in a fair breeze. How a 2D element can yield a 3D effect is a mystery to all except the mastermind, himself.

“You have to grow as an artist, and find things that stimulate you, and the check for me is they also have to challenge me,” David says. “I’ve been challenging myself to find a way to make it look like the leaves are just sitting on top of the leather. It’s a matter of getting the leaf itself to the right thickness, getting the right kind of lift and push-down into the leather and getting the colors to sort of blend and merge like a fall leaf would. That’s a big part of it–the trial–and continuing to push myself.”

David prides himself on winning this award, saying the journal represents several years of working to develop the skills necessary to create such a dynamic piece. Looking forward, David is eager to participate in the Bluff Park Art Show and others for years to come, showcasing the beauty in a rather unconventional but no less intricate form of artwork.

While beauty may be subjective, authenticity has no rival when it comes to David Byland’s one-of-a-kind masterpieces.

To view or purchase David Byland’s artwork, visit bisonridgeleathercompany.com. Follow Bison Ridge Leather Company on Instagram @bison_ridge_leather_co.

Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens –Historic Birthplace of Hoover

The Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens is a beautiful event venue location rich in history and elegance. This colonial-style brick home has historical significance, as it is the birthplace of the city of Hoover and was originally built by William Henry Hoover, founder of the city of Hoover. In fact, the original establishing documents for the city of Hoover were signed in front of the fireplace in the library. This elegant, one-of-a-kind venue has space for people to gather both inside and outside. When entering the home, guests are greeted by the original, grand spiral staircase in the foyer.

The interior features an open floor plan, a prep kitchen, full bar and AV equipment with surround sound. Outside, there is a new, large patio with a fireplace, tables and plenty of seating. The property also features a beautiful garden and picturesque gazebos. The home has Southern charm and provides an ideal place for large holiday parties, gatherings and weddings. We look forward to meeting you and talking with you for your next event! To learn more about Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens or to book an event, visit hooverrandlehome.com or call 205-739-6556.

Taste of Hoover

This annual event celebrates the variety of culinary styles found throughout our city. Enjoy an autumn evening of sampling delicious dishes from some of Hoover’s best restaurants and Aldridge Gardens’ preferred caterers while listening to

live entertainment. Our 2024 event will be held on Thursday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens. More information can be found at aldridgegardens.com. Patrons can contact aldridgegardens@ hooveralabama.gov with questions.

“Being with the Trees”

This new program will take place on Sept. 28, Oct. 26 and Nov. 30, each day from 8-9 a.m. We will mindfully walk through the gardens, breathing in harmony with the forest. We will learn the names of many tree species and their unique features, watch the leaves change over the course of the season and create art to celebrate the joy and wonder of being with trees. This program is free and oriented toward adults ages 21 and up. For more information, please contact ryan.cavender@hooveralabama.gov.

Holiday Parties

Aldridge Gardens is a breathtaking venue for your holiday parties. Whether you’d like to host your family and friends or a corporate party, we would love to have you here. Please contact aldridgegardens@hooveralabama.gov for more information.

Weddings at Aldridge Gardens

Fall and winter weddings at Aldridge Gardens are getting more popular every year. There are many locations around the gardens that you can choose from for the big day. If you would like more information on having your rehearsal and wedding at Aldridge Gardens, please contact aldridgegardens@ hooveralabama.gov.

CATS, BATS AND CRAFTS

Summer

has faded, school has begun and as autumn settles in, Hoover Library is gearing up for a delightfully spooky season.

BY STEPHANIE BEAVER & LINDSAY DAVIS PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

It all begins with “Cats, Bats and Crafts” on Oct. 11 and 12, featuring passive activities and crafts celebrating nocturnal animals and leading up to our all-day, trick-or-treating extravaganza on Halloween Day. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., the library provides a safe space for little ones to practice their trick-or-treating skills, offers refuge if the weather turns sour and serves as a fantastic addition to any family’s Halloween itinerary.

However, that’s just the start of our Halloween festivities for kids! Tweens in grades 5-7 can concoct tasty treats at our “Potions Party” on Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. Teens can unleash their creativity at “Frankenpuppets and Zombarbies” on Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m., transforming old puppets and dolls into eerie, new creations. The pinnacle of our children’s events is the “Paws and Claws Howl-o-ween Bash” on Oct. 25 at 7 p.m., an after-hours, family Halloween party filled with library-themed areas, crafts, games and appearances by beloved canine and feline characters.

Of course, Halloween isn’t just for the younger

crowd! Adults can join the festivities, starting with our after-hours “Zombie Prom” on Oct. 11, featuring a DJ, door prizes, snacks and a thrilling costume contest. Embrace the undead spirit and shimmy over for a dance party that’s sure to raise the dead!

Keeping with the zombie theme, our October movie series, “They’re Coming for You,” kicks off on Oct. 7 with a double feature, “Birth of the Living Dead: The Making of ‘Night of the Living Dead,’” followed by the classic 1968 film, “Night of the Living Dead.” Every Monday in October offers a different cinematic take on zombies, including “Warm Bodies” (2013), “REC” (2007) and “Evil Dead Rise” (2023).

Feeling artistic? Join us on Oct. 10 for a stringart, jack-o-lantern workshop right here at the library or at East 59 Café in Lee Branch. Bingo Night on Oct. 17 will also get into the spirit with Halloween-themed music and decorations. If you’re fascinated by creatures of the night, don’t miss our Oct. 15 program exploring bats and other nocturnal animals.

Get ready to embrace the spooky season with us at Hoover Library, where Halloween fun awaits both the young and the young at heart!

THIS BOOK

Thrillers on the Shelves

Recommendations from Theresa

Davis

Head of the Fiction Department at the Hoover Public Library

Jar of Hearts

By Jennifer Hillier | Thriller

Theresa Davis has a passion for knitting, a soft spot for her dog and a deep love of captivating stories. She is your go-to expert for thrilling reads. Theresa has a particular fondness for suspense, crime and detective novels. Check out her top picks for the spookiest reads this fall season!

When Angela Wong disappeared without a trace, nobody ever suspected that her best friend, Georgina Shaw, was involved in any way. However, 14 years later, Angela’s remains are discovered in the woods near Georgina’s childhood home. The truth reveals Angela was a victim of serial killer Calvin James. To Georgina, he’s something else entirely, and for 14 years, Georgina knew what happened to Angela and told no one. While everyone thinks they finally know the truth, there are dark secrets buried deep.

Midnight is the Darkest Hour

By Ashley Winstead | Thriller

Ruth Collier has always felt like an outsider, even as her father rains fire and brimstone from the church pulpit. In Bottom Springs, his word is as good as law. Although, there are things the townspeople fear more than God, such as the Low Man, a vampiric figure said to kill sinners in their beds on moonless nights. When a skull is found deep in the swamp, a hunt for the Low Man begins. Suspicion turns to Everett—Ruth’s oldest friend who has a dark past. As Ruth and Everett grow closer, Ruth begins to unearth the town’s secrets, determined to discover the truth. But as the line between good and evil grows ever thin, how far will Ruth go to save the person she loves most?

The Night Swim

By Megan Goldin | Mystery, Thriller

Ever since her true-crime podcast became an overnight sensation and set an innocent man free, Rachel Krall has become a household name—and the last hope for people seeking justice. The new season of Rachel’s podcast has brought her to a small town being torn apart by a devastating rape trial. Rachel throws herself into her investigation, but she keeps receiving mysterious letters. The past and present start to collide as Rachel uncovers startling connections between two different cases.

The Only One Left

By Riley Sager | Mystery, Thriller

The “Hope family murders” shocked the Maine coast one bloody night in 1929. While most people assume 17-yearold Lenora was responsible, the police were never able to prove it. It’s now 1983, and home-health aide Kit McDeere begins caring for Lenora. In her 70s and confined to a wheelchair, Lenora was rendered mute by a series of strokes and can only communicate with Kit by tapping out sentences on an old typewriter. As Kit helps Lenora write about the events leading to the Hope family massacre, it becomes clear there’s more to the tale than people know. The seemingly harmless woman in Kit’s care could be far more dangerous than she first thought.

The New Couple in 5B

By Lisa Unger | Horror, Thriller

Rosie and Chad Lowan are barely making ends meet in New York City when they receive life-changing news: Chad’s late uncle has left them his luxury apartment. One would almost never suspect the dark history lurking behind its perfectly maintained facade. At first, the building and its eclectic tenants couldn’t feel more welcoming. As the Lowans settle into their new home, Rosie starts to suspect that there’s more than meets the eye. When one of the neighbors turns up dead, Rosie must get to the truth before she, too, falls under the home’s dangerous spell.

SCHOOL SPORTS&

THE BUCS ARE BACK

Hoover High School Head Girls Soccer Coach Nick Smith reflects on the team’s hard-fought season.

BY ALEC ETHEREDGE & ANNA GRACE MOORE

PHOTOS BY DAWN HARRISON

VVictory narrowly escaped the Hoover High School girls soccer team’s grasp in the Class 7A soccer state championship, which was held on Saturday, May 11 at John Hunt Park in Huntsville. Having fought a valiant effort, the Bucs lost 1-0 to the Auburn High School Tigers, making the Bucs’ first-runner-up finish the team’s highest finish since 1999.

“It was kind of a defensive struggle,” Nick Smith, Hoover High School’s head girls soccer coach, says. “Auburn’s back line played really well. The MVP of the tournament was Laila Simmons, who is one of their center-backs on their defensive line, and she earned it. She played extremely well, and they at every opportunity had to go down and try to score. We outshot them on the day, but we just couldn’t get one to go in.”

Although the Bucs outshot the Tigers 12-5, it was Auburn’s Peyton Bishop who scored the nail-biting game’s only score of the night at 25:49 on the clock. The Tigers’ goalkeeper Melissa Smith made five saves, and the Bucs’ Lane Morton notably made three saves, too.

Nick says while the championship game did not go the way the Bucs wanted it to, he was still incredibly proud of his players, who boasted a record of 21-5-2 during the 2023-24 season. The Bucs shut out rival teams such as Oak Mountain High School, Vestavia Hills High School and Huntsville High School.

On Thursday, May 9 during the semifinal game, the Bucs shut out the Huntsville Panthers, proving Hoover was once again a force with which to be reckoned on the road to the Class 7A state championship. This game, Nick says, was the epitome of what the Bucs were capable of and will go down in history as one of the greatest comebacks in the history of the school’s program.

“Our team really bought into the fact that any individual success was all of our success,” Nick says of the Bucs’ impressive season. “They were always

just so happy for each other. No matter who was the one scoring the goal, they didn’t care who got the credit. They were just excited that everybody was kind of pitching in to help Hoover soccer be successful.”

During this match, the Bucs scored two goals within the first six minutes of the game and an insurance goal in the second half to create all the necessary separation in a dominant 3-0 victory.

The fast start from the Bucs in the first six minutes of the game was largely thanks to Dee Dee Udeh, both with a play that made the opening goal possible and a goal of her own shortly after. With the Bucs controlling the ball early, Huntsville felt the pressure quickly, but it was a play ahead to Dee Dee that eventually paid off.

At first, the ball looked to be too far, but she sprinted, catching it just in time to stop it right in the corner before trickling out of bounds. Keeping the play alive, she eventually played it in, which led to a tripping penalty just in front of the goal to set up a penalty kick for Hoover.

Elise Marquardt stepped up and easily put the ball in goal, sliding it to the keeper’s left for a 1-0 lead 4:11 into the game. Then, just more than a minute later, Dee Dee got in on the action herself.

After another great pass played to her up the middle of the field, Dee Dee took it off a bounce and was able to beat her defender for a one-on-one opportunity that became a cake walk, as she buried a shot to make it 2-0 with 34:19 to play in the opening half. From there, Hoover had a few more chances to add to the lead but couldn’t capitalize, while Huntsville had even fewer opportunities with a stingy Bucs’ defense.

That effort led to a 2-0 halftime lead for the Bucs. Early in the second half, the Panthers came out with a more aggressive

It’s a team that the community and the school should be very proud of.

-Nick Smith

approach offensively, pushing the ball toward the goal within the first 10 minutes of the half, but Hoover’s defense always buckled down when facing pressure.

And, the pressure didn’t last long.

After that 10-minute spurt, the Bucs took control of the game once again and maintained it the rest of the way with very little threat to their defense. With 21:30 to play, Nneka Udeh was able to gather the ball in the left corner of the box and fired a powerful shot into the back of the net that became the final straw in the shutout.

Hoover outshot Huntsville 17-2 in the win with 10 of those 17 shots on goal.

“Those girls pushed our entire soccer program forward in a big way,” Nick says. “They’ve left a lot of memories with me, and I know they’ve done that with themselves. They are just incredible ambassadors of their community and of Hoover High School. It’s a team that the community and the school should be very proud of.”

Looking forward, Nick says the Bucs will tackle the 2024-25 season with the same tenacity, balancing sportsmanship with true grit to achieve yet another triumphant season.

Look alive, Hoover. The Bucs are back.

For kids like Gwen •

Because Gwen came to Children’s for the diagnosis and treatment of her blood disorder, she received the best care available thanks to ground-breaking research made possible by clinical trials for cancers and blood disorders. The research happening today will lead to future cures, and it is happening here at Children’s of Alabama.

5 FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Kelly Peoples Events Manager, City

of Hoover

PHOTO

CONTRIBUTED

From July 12-18, 2024, the city of Hoover hosted The Hartford Nationals, which is an annual competition for athletes with physical, visual or intellectual disabilities. Conducted by Move United, this year marks the 67th championship competition. Here, Kelly Peoples, events manager for the city of Hoover, details her gratitude for being able to host such a special event.

What does it mean for the city of Hoover to host The Hartford Nationals and spotlight these athletes on a national scale?

The city of Hoover was honored to host The Hartford Nationals conducted by Move United in 2023 and 2024. The power of sport shows what is possible for people with disabilities, while also fueling conversations of what inclusion looks like.

Approximately 400 athletes from 35 different states came to Hoover to compete in their respective sports. We saw a boost in economic impact due to these athletes, families and coaches being in town, but working with them and cheering them on all week was priceless.

How long has the city of Hoover partnered with Move United, and how did this partnership come to be?

Move United chooses a different city

every two years. Before Hoover, they were in Denver for two years. They announced at this year’s closing ceremony that they are going to Grand Rapids, Michigan, for 2025 and 2026. Our team recruited them to come here, and we hope they will be back in the future.

Of all the events featured, which stood out to you the most?

While watching the athletes compete was fun and exciting, I think the opening ceremony was my favorite event. The Parade of Athletes—each state comes in alphabetical order—was special. Seeing hundreds of athletes with physical disabilities coming in together and cheering for each other was amazing. Most of these athletes only see each other at nationals, so it’s fun to watch them reconnect.

How has watching these athletes compete inspired you?

Seeing any person reach their goal is special to me. Many of these athletes have lived with their disabilities for a long time and have learned to overcome obstacles. Their sport makes them more determined, more powerful, more themselves.

What is the best part about your job in terms of planning events such as these that mean so much to the community?

I hope that having events such as The Hartford Nationals in Hoover will bring our community together, foster fellowship between patrons and show a world where everyone is included.

To learn more information about Move United and The Hartford Nationals, visit moveunitedsport.org/events/nationals.

FOOD DRINK&

THE BISCUIT CHRONICLES

Andrew and Rachel Adams detail their journey into introducing Biscuit Belly to Hoover, Alabama.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

PHOTOS BY BISCUIT BELLY, THE BUDNICK CO. & JAMES CULVER

RRachel Adams was no more than 4, when she declared her love for her fellow preschool classmate (now husband) Andrew Adams. Andrew laughs as he remembers Rachel telling his mother all those years ago that she would “marry that boy” one day.

Sure enough, she was right.

“We’ve been together for almost 19 years now, and we’ve been married for 12,” Rachel says, smiling.

The Adams duo grew up in Blount County, Alabama, in a town they say where “everyone knew everyone else.” They attended J.B. Pennington High School, where Andrew was the drum major, and Rachel was on the dance line–the perfect match

spun during Friday Night Lights.

Andrew and Rachel began dating at age 15, graduating not just from high school together, but also from college together later on at the University of Alabama. They both also received their Bachelor in Business Management, having worked in the restaurant industry while in school.

Andrew got his feet wet in the industry at Cypress Inn in Tuscaloosa, where he worked as a waiter and eventually on up to the dining room and catering manager.

“I worked for a guy named Gary McGee, and he was a great influence on my restaurant career,” Andrew says. “He gave me my first restaurant

manager opportunity.”

Rachel, on the other hand, worked at the 15th Street Diner, and although the restaurant is no longer in operation, Rachel says her time there was integral in building her career. After graduating, the two worked in the finance industry for several years before tying the knot and moving to Birmingham.

In August 2019, Andrew and Rachel took a leap of faith, opening a Makers DIY location in Vestavia Hills–becoming entrepreneurs for the first time. While they enjoyed their business, Andrew and Rachel ended up selling it to their business partner in May 2020 to venture into other business endeavors.

Opportunity then presented itself for the duo to return to the restaurant industry. Andrew joined Will Haver and Power Brands, helping open Stadium Trace’s Taco Mama location in 2020. Rachel also started working with Milo’s Tea Co.

“We had always talked throughout college about opening a breakfast concept,” Andrew says. “It’s just something that we always knew that Tuscaloosa needed. Moving away, it was still in the back of our

heads.”

Around this time, Power Brands, which is a restaurant management group that oversees several Birmingham-based establishments, was looking to open a breakfast concept in Hoover. Not long after did the group recruit Andrew and Rachel to open up Alabama’s first Biscuit Belly location in The Village at Brock’s Gap.

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Chad and Lauren Coulter, Biscuit Belly is a Kentucky-based breakfast restaurant chain that first opened in 2018. Similarly to Andrew and Rachel, Chad and Lauren both worked in the same industry (pharmacy) but switched gears to “scratch their entrepreneurial itch.”

LouVino–conceptualized from the Coulters’ first painting and drinking business idea–was created in 2014 before it was later sold. The fast-casual restaurant and wine bar has grown to include five locations in three states.

LouVino’s executive chef Tavis Rockwell and Chad then began dreaming up what a breakfast restaurant would look like; thus, Biscuit Belly was

born. Now with 12 locations across the South and Midwest, Biscuit Belly has grown to become a popular spot right here in Hoover, Alabama.

“Biscuit Belly’s slogan is ‘damn good biscuits,’ so we thought anything that’s edgy like that would intrigue us,” Andrew says. “We fell in love with the menu and really fell in love with the brand.”

In February 2023, Biscuit Belly opened its doors in The Village at Brock’s Gap for the first time. Hundreds of patrons showed up, stretching the line from the door to the parking lot.

Known for its Southern-style cuisine “with a twist,” Biscuit Belly has grown famous for its menu items such as Mama’s Boy, a biscuit with buttermilkfried-chicken breast, roasted jalapeño pimento cheese, spicy belly pickles and fried green tomatoes. Beware the fiery kick when biting into this medley of flavors.

Riding that heat is the Fire in your Belly biscuit, which layers the same, juicy buttermilk-friedchicken with Nashville Hot Mayo, spicy belly pickles and cheddar cheese on a tender, flaky biscuit. Those wanting some spice but toned down a notch should try The G.O.A.T, which cleverly blends fried chicken, sweet pepper jelly and goat cheese–an odd but delicious pairing.

“The menu offers staples such as biscuits and gravy,” Andrew says. “It’s still very Southern at heart, but it just puts some of those other Southern staples that you wouldn’t think about on a biscuit.”

Created in honor of its namesake, The Rockwell Supreme is one of the most popular biscuits as it combines fried chicken, cheddar, Goetta sausage gravy, an over-easy egg and bacon for flavors that

Chef Picks

FOR THE TABLE Loaded Breakfast Tots

Sausage-and-cheddar-stuffed tater tots with sweet maple mayo sauce

BISCUIT SANDWICHES

Biscuit Bennie

Smoked brisket, poached eggs, smokedgouda-mornay gravy, roasted tomatoes and poblano-tomato sauce

PARTY HEARTY

Brekkie Bowl

Bowl of home fries or cheesy grits topped with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, roasted tomatoes, goat cheese and poblano-tomato sauce

pack a punch.

“My favorite is the Love Shack,” Rachel says. “It’s an openfaced biscuit, and it has brie cheese on it with berry jam, which is house-made, honey, strawberries, blueberries and pralines. It’s so good.”

Even better than the food are the memories they have gotten to make with their customers and their staff over the last year, Andrew says.

From catering corporate functions to donating meals to local nonprofits, Andrew and Rachel have made it their priority to give back to the community that has made their college dream a reality for their family. To date, their business has donated several hundreds of dollars worth of food, all in the name of gratitude.

“We have a lady that has some health issues, so any time she goes to the doctor, she always wants to go to her happy place–Biscuit Belly,” Andrew says. “We enjoy welcoming her and putting a smile on her face each time.”

It is customers like her that Andrew and Rachel say makes their careers worthwhile. Their new, entrepreneurial journey is one they love navigating together, but they say it would not have come to fruition without the many believers investing in their dream.

“I credit [our success] towards our community and just the people that come out and support us,” Rachel says. “We’ve gotten to know so many awesome people. It’s been a big blessing.”

Biscuit Belly is located at 1031 Brocks Gap Parkway Suite 157 in Hoover. It is open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. and on Saturday-Sunday from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit biscuitbelly.com.

DINING GUIDE

Hoover + Vestavia Hills

3780 RIVERCHASE VILLAGE, SUITE #100 • HOOVER, AL 35244

SAWSBBQ.COM/SAWS-BBQ-HOOVER/ • 205-315-4637

Saw’s BBQ At Saw’s we understand that you can’t rush greatness. Bar-B-Q is a slow craft. Low temperatures and delicate smoke render swine sublime. Come by our Riverchase Village location and see for yourself why we were voted Hoover’s Best Barbecue! Visit our website to find out about catering for your next event.

2837 CAHABA ROAD • MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL 35223

DAVENPORTSPIZZA.COM • 205-879-8603

700 MONTGOMERY HIGHWAY UNIT 193 • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35216

DAVENPORTSPIZZA.COM • 205-407-4747

Davenport’s Pizza Palace

Visit us in the Vestavia City Center or at our original Mountain Brook location for award-winning pizza, a fresh garden salad and the coldest beer in town! Our dough and sauce are made from scratch, using the same family recipes for 60 years. Our party room is available for birthday parties, family celebrations, sports team events and more. Our Vestavia location features a bar (try our cocktails), TVs to watch your favorite sport and outdoor seating! We are proud to be family-owned and operated since 1964.

5184 CALDWELL MILL ROAD • BIRMINGHAM, AL 35244

THECRAFTBURGER.COM • 205-995-0003

5479 US HIGHWAY 280 • BIRMINGHAM, AL 35242

THECRAFTBURGER.COM • 205-538-5256

Craft Burger

Craft Burger was founded in 2017 with a simple idea: an honest burger for an honest buck. We use simple, fresh ingredients, cooked with care just the way you like it. We offer more than just burgers to tempt even the pickiest of eaters: turkey burgers, hot dogs and more! Catering, delivery and private-party hosting are also available. Visit us today in Valleydale Village or coming soon to Highway 280!

3009 PUMPHOUSE ROAD SUITE 110 • VESTAVIA HILLS, AL 35243

WALDOSCHICKEN.COM • 205-635-0002

Waldo’s Chicken & Beer

Waldo’s Chicken & Beer is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in hand-breaded chicken, scratch-made sides and ice-cold beer, all served with first-class customer service. Waldo’s humble coop is no frills, comfortable and great for groups of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite at the bar, a spot to gather with your crew and watch the game or a great crowd-pleaser catering option, Waldo’s is your go-to.

1031 BROCK’S GAP PARKWAY • HOOVER, AL 35244 BISCUITBELLY.COM/HOOVER • 205-402-8126

Biscuit Belly

Nestled into the heart of The Village at Brock’s Gap, located just minutes down the road from The Met and Finley Center, get your taste buds watering and bellies ready for the ultimate brunch experience with scratch-made biscuits made and baked fresh every day. Join the Biscuit Belly loyalty program and earn rewards every time you order online or in person. Plus, enjoy free bonuts on us just for signing up.

618 MAIN STREET • MONTEVALLO, AL 35115 ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE! • 205-476-8052

Meri Moon Meri Moon is now open in downtown Montevallo’s historic Strand Theater building! Our menu features locally sourced ingredients, premium coffee and tea, a curated wine and beer selection and a variety of breakfast options, sandwiches, salads and snacks. Plus, Eclipse’s renowned milkshakes are back! Enjoy old menu favorites alongside exciting new options in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Visit us Tuesday-Saturday from 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

2341 JOHN HAWKINS PARKWAY, STE 119 • HOOVER, AL 35244

WHISKEYFOXTROTBHAM.COM • 205-536-6172

Whiskey Foxtrot Burger Dive

Whiskey Foxtrot

Burger Dive is a locally owned burger joint specializing in gourmet hamburgers and hot dogs made from American Wagyu Beef. We serve several local craft beers and a selection of top-shelf bourbons and whiskeys. Whiskey Foxtrot offers a casual, family-friendly dining experience and aims to be your go-to when you’re craving a burger or dog and/or a cold beverage. Visit our Hoover or Homewood location and see why we were voted Hoover’s Best Burger!

Amy Jason Founder of Cookie Fix

PHOTO BY CAROLINE RICE BOBBIT

As a child, Amy Jason drew inspiration from a Pillsbury Bake-Off cookbook, sparking her passion for baking sweets. With encouragement from her parents, Amy grew up baking for friends, family–snowballing into her baking for supper clubs, Bible studies, PTO meetings and more as she became a mother, herself. Deciding to monetize her talent, Amy opened the first-ever Cookie Fix in Homewood in 2016, and in April 2024, Cookie Fix opened in The Village at Brock’s Gap. Here, Amy provides an insider’s scoop on the cookie business.

Where did your love for baking originate?

It brings me great joy to make something for someone. Baking is such a creative outlet. I learned to bake when I was 10 years old. I loved to bake for my mom and dad because it brightened their day. My dad had a big sweet tooth. I would make something, and I wouldn’t let them come in the kitchen. I would enter the room as if I was carrying this huge cake in my hands. My dad would beam with joy at whatever I brought–it didn’t matter if it was good. I loved doing that.

How did Cookie Fix come to be?

With kids, the time to make complicated desserts was gone. The kids really loved cookies, and it was a great afternoon activity. I would test different batches just because I wanted to find what I considered the very best oatmeal chocolate cookie recipe. All of this testing–I had to give them to somebody. People came to know me from my cookies. The oatmeal toffee chocolate chip cookie is what got the party started. Once I perfected that recipe, it became the one that I gave to everybody. Later on, I ran into David Maluff with Full Moon. David was a big fan of my cookies and was very encouraging. He said, ‘What are you waiting on? You’ve got the product. You’ve got the clients. I’ll help you figure it out.’ That was really his help–the affirmation that I could do this. He was a cheerleader for me. We walked in that tiny,

long space in Homewood, and he said, ‘This is it. You need to do this.’ That was eight years ago. I am amazingly blessed. I give God all of the glory. Our reward comes from the hard. Reward doesn’t come from the easy. I was very blessed. The other huge mentor was Andy McMakin. He believed in me. He graciously shared several hours of his time with me when I was in that decision-making phase and was critical in me deciding I was going to do this.

How has the brand expanded in recent years?

Last year, Cookie Fix made more than 1 million cookies among three stores. Now, we have eight locations. Homewood and Cahaba Heights are company owned. Cahaba Heights came along four years after Homewood. Huntsville was our first franchise. They opened in February 2022. Berry Farms opened Oct. 31, 2023. The next four came all in a big bang between the last week of March and the middle of May 2024.

How do you decide what is going to be on the menu?

We shoot for it to be the same across all locations. Every day we have chocolate chip and healthy peanut butter. Every day, we have a cookie that has dark chocolate in it. We have a cookie that has caramel in it. We have a white chocolate cookie. We have an

oatmeal-based cookie. We have a peanut butter-based cookie. We have a chocolatebased cookie. We have a plain cookie. That’s the layout of the menu. Generally, there’s 12 items a day. It’s a Monday, Wednesday, Friday menu and a Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday menu. With specials thrown on top of that with certain specials on MondayTuesday, bars are on Wednesday; “Over the Top” is Thursday-Friday; and “Sammies” are on Saturday.

What are some of your favorite menu items?

I have developed all of the cookie recipes, but our team collaborates on the specials that use cookies as its base. For example, my favorite “Sammie” uses triple chocolate chunk with peanut butter icing rolled in Reese cups. We all throw ideas in the hat, but we do have one baker, Rebecca Riggs, at Homewood–that is her specialty. She is so good at creating new “Over the Tops.” My favorite flavor I have ever created is pumpkin pecan chocolate chip. It’s an OctoberNovember-only cookie, and it’s extraordinary.

Cookie Fix is located at 1021 Brocks Gap Parkway in The Village at Brock’s Gap. It is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit cookiefix.com to learn more.

HOME STYLE&

A TUSCAN VILLA

The Garrisons’ adept talents blend beautifully, yielding an architectural masterpiece of a home.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY

IIf great minds think alike, then an architect marrying an interior designer is the perfect match for a beautiful home. Aubrey and Jeanne Garrison first met at ArchitectsSouth when Aubrey was recruited to build an architectural branch of the company and Jeanne was working as an interior designer.

The two parted ways after working on several projects together. Aubrey left the company and founded his own architecture firm, The Garrison Group, in 1980.

His firm later merged with Lauren Barrett in 1992. In 2008 in partnership with Aubrey’s now son-in-law, Craig Krawczyk, the firm became Live Design Group. Jeanne, on the other hand, left ArchitectsSouth to start her own company, Silkwood, which specialized in artificial botany design for commercial spaces.

The two reconnected later in life, tying the knot in 1999. After deciding to design their first home together, Aubrey and Jeanne chose to build in Greystone Crest on a lot with sprawling stones cascading down 2 acres of beautiful topography.

Looking out over the view, one can see for miles–even as far as The Summit and Mountain Brook High School’s football stadium. When first building, Aubrey designed a tunneled walkway leading up to the face of the home.

The tunnel is comprised of Alabama sandstone that was excavated from nearly a depth of 15 feet into the property. Strolling inside, the home’s interior transports one to the Italian countryside–its tuscan design reminiscent of a quieter, easygoing way of life.

Unique design elements such as the entryway’s floor–modeled after an alcove in Vatican City–and the living room’s cloth tapestry add an upscale yet unpretentious mood about the home. An architectural marvel, the center staircase with its cast-iron railings and sandstone columns connects the home’s three stories, reaching a height of more than 30 feet.

Both inside and out, the Garrisons’ home’s alluring beauty is the perfect reflection of their talents–artfully-inspired architecture elevated by intentional design.

The Tunnel

The tunnel is made from Alabama sandstone excavated from the property.

Entryway

Modeled after an alcove in Vatican City, this entryway’s floor tile was broken to replicate an old-world look.

Kitchen

Aubrey designed this island with a concrete base and honed granite countertops. The hanging light fixtures are imported from Venice, Italy.

From the kitchen nook’s window, one appreciates a “living artwork,” or as Jeanne says, “God’s talent.”

Living Room

Jeanne designed this entertaining area with an Earth-toned color palette, in order to create a warm yet calm and inviting atmosphere for company.

Inspired by restaurants in Italy, this butler’s bell was repurposed as a doorbell for the home.

Hand-painted by Arthur Price, this 12-foot-long tapestry provides a gorgeous focal point for the room.

Studio

Aubrey and Jeanne’s offices are adjacent to one another in this room, which provides an abundance of natural light–necessary for creative minds.

This hand-crafted dining room table dates back to the 17th century and was gifted to Aubrey by his aunt, Kathryn Cheek.

From the studio, one can see out for miles all the way from Greystone to The Summit and Mountain Brook High School.

Master Bedroom

Adorning the posterior wall, one of Jeanne’s original paintings, “Our Journey,” is a beautifully ornate depiction of her and Aubrey’s commitment to each other.

The Circus

The Garrisons acquired this vintage piece from Fritz Whoele. Originally, this artwork was a wall panel from a Barnum & Bailey carousel.

Jeanne decorated the master suite with hand-blown glass ornaments hanging from beaded copper wire.

Master Bathroom

Aubrey and Jeanne chose a cool-tone teal with black accents to create a moody aesthetic.

The Gate

This wrought-iron grill was originally part of the Birmingham Terminal Station.

Artfully Inspired

When Jeanne was a little girl, she loved playing with dolls. As she grew older, she enjoyed dressing mannequins with the latest fashion statements. Aubrey bought a mannequin for Jeanne, surprising her at a party with the mannequin dressed up and holding a picture of Jeanne.

Playroom

Aubrey and Jeanne built a fun “hideout” for their grandkids on the first floor of their home.

Catch the Tide

University of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe leads a youth football camp at Hoover High School.

BY KELSEA SCHAFER

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Saturday, July 13, the University of Alabama’s quarterback Jalen Milroe hosted his youth football camp at Hoover High School, inviting boys and girls ages 6 to 16 to hone their football techniques, skills and abilities. Jalen has reached the pinnacle of his collegiate football career and has a promising future ahead of him; however, he never fails to remember how his passion for football began in his youth at former NFL player Michael Vick’s youth football camp.

Jalen knew he wanted to give back to the community the best way he knew how—through football. He partnered with FlexWork Sports Management to host three youth football camps across the state of Alabama.

Hoover High School was the second stop of the

tour with more than 400 young athletes and their families flocking to the Hoover High School’s football stadium for a chance to learn from the best. With hundreds of players registered, the football camp’s participants were separated by age groups and delegated to stations that targeted specific skills such as quarterback drills, dashes, running routes and footwork exercises.

Campers even had an opportunity to “catch the tide,” the game-winning touchdown, from Jalen, himself. Camp participant Lincoln Collins was one of many who attended the camp and who says his memories with Jalen will stick with him forever.

“My favorite part of the camp was getting to meet Jalen and him throwing the ball to me,” Lincoln says.

The football camp stations outsourced willing volunteers who were knowledgeable in techniques that assisted in helping to further develop each player’s skills. The focus of each station fostered a game of friendly competition, allowing the campers to race, catch and better their techniques.

Many camp participants left the stadium as better players than when they first arrived.

“My favorite part of the camp was the drills we had to do because it challenged me to do better,” Ayden Goodgame, one of the camp participants, says.

Through the camp, Jalen taught participants that

the drills they were practicing would enable them to level up their performances on the field and become better players. The day-long session concluded with a question-and-answer segment in the performing arts center, where the athletes were able to ask Jalen questions about collegiate athletics, playing for Alabama, tips for various aspects of the game and even hear his advice on remembering to work hard.

The Crimson Tide’s quarterback’s smile never left his face as he answered each question, ensuring each child had his undivided attention. Many bystanders observed Jalen’s kindness, including

Harold Collins II, who described Jalen’s positive approach to the youth athletes as integral in their athletic endeavors.

“He seemed to sincerely enjoy his interactions with the children,” Harold says. “He was always smiling and encouraging them. He reinforced several times in his Q&A to work hard and not to worry about what others think about you.”

While Jalen’s football camp fostered athletic techniques necessary for success in football, it also ensured the promise of future football players to show kindness and sportsmanship, just as Jalen showed to them.

Jalen’s passion, love for the game and humble understanding allowed for hundreds of athletes to learn from him and his volunteers; however, it could not have been possible without the support from his sponsors and community leaders— FlexWork Sports Management; Betsy Reamer, Ray and Poynor Properties; Evamor Artesian Water; and Hoover High School. FlexWork Sports Management ensured that each athlete was able to enjoy devoted time at each station and receive a team photo with the quarterback.

Additionally, Evamor Artesian Water provided water bottles to ensure that each athlete stay

Learn from the Best

FlexWork Sports Management hosts youth sports camps across the country, inviting participants ages 6 to 16 and their families to learn from some of the best athletes in the nation. To learn more about FlexWork Sports Management or find a camp near you, visit flexworksports.com.

hydrated. Betsy (Ray and Poynor Properties) equipped each youth athlete with a swag bag to take home.

Betsy says she knew immediately that she wanted to support a positive initiative that promotes youth development through sports. She described this event as incredibly fulfilling and enjoyed seeing the happiness that was evident on every child’s face as they each participated in this camp.

“Being a sponsor for this camp was incredibly rewarding, especially seeing the enthusiasm and growth of the young

athletes,” Betsy says. “Seeing them develop their skills, gain confidence and foster a passion for the game was incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, knowing that our support helped create a positive and memorable experience for these aspiring athletes was incredibly gratifying.”

Jalen’s youth football camp fostered the love for the game and instilled good sportsmanship, character and patience both on and off the football

field. Further, his generosity and willingness to assist each camper were undoubtedly key factors in every athlete leaving the camp with new techniques to apply to their football positions.

What began as Jalen’s idea to give back soon developed into a community initiative, uniting the future of Hoover-area football players under one objective: to be the pillars of sportsmanship in Hoover and beyond.

Hoover’s Magazine

COMMUNITY LEADERS 2024

It’s the people who make Hoover the community that it is! Here we recognize some of those making an impact on others around them through their businesses.

DERRICK MURPHY

www.derrickmmurphy.com • info@derrickmmurphy.com

Derrick M. Murphy, a native of Ensley, AL, is a civil engineer with undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As the Assistant General Manager of Engineering & Maintenance at Birmingham Water Works, Derrick leverages his expertise to serve his community. Appointed to the Hoover School Board in 2011, he later became its President before being elected to the Hoover City Council in 2016, where he chairs the Commerce & Development, Industrial Development, and Public Safety Committees. Derrick also founded the Hoover City Dad Brigade, mobilizing over 500 fathers, grandfathers, and high school boys to participate in school cleanups. This year, he organized the First Responders Appreciation Cookout to honor our local heroes. An advocate for education, public safety, and civic engagement, Derrick’s efforts have significantly strengthened the Hoover community. He is supported by his wife Shenavia and their three children and is an active member of Hunter Street Baptist Church. Derrick remains committed to fostering a thriving, welcoming environment for all Hoover residents.

HOOVER’S TRIPLE PLAYKIDS & KINDNESS

David Bannister • 205-936- 4783 • bannybuc@gmail.com

In 1999, David Bannister was asked to help with fundraising for Hoover Football. 25 years and millions of dollars later, he is still scoring touchdowns for Hoover, the YMCA, and Neighborhood Bridges Hoover. Being on three boards would be too much for most, but not Banny. He loves helping kids, and he loves connecting Hoover Businesses and residents to the things that matter most- Kids and Kindness. Bannister says helping Hoover Football drives actual inclusion by helping kids play sports, stay in school, excel and build self-esteem. Helping the Bucs become the winningest program in the state has been fun and rewarding. Bannister then saw an even bigger need with school-age kids, and through Leadership Hoover, he started Neighborhood Bridges Hoover, which allows the 47 Hoover City School Counselors to post needs from the kids and families of Hoover’s 17 schools. Hoover residents and business can then view a list of items needed and fulfill the kindness. Not quite done, Bannister then accepted a role on the YMCA board, because he saw what a Community Health and Wellness program can do for kids and families that don’t have the financial means to enjoy a membership. He helps spearhead an annual $150,000 drive, providing scholarships to over 400 families for free YMCA memberships, so they can learn to swim, be active, have after school and summer care, and more. If you want to get involved with any of the three charities, Banny would love to hear from you!

Dr. Jordan and Dr. Sugg have been practicing dentistry for a combined 28 years. Dr. Jordan lives in Bluff Park and attends Homewood Church of Christ. Dr. Sugg lives in Riverchase and attends Hunter Street Baptist. At StoneCreek Dental Care in Hoover they both offer expanded dental services. Between both doctors a few of the services offered are cleanings, fillings, same day crowns, root canals, implants, full mouth rehab and complex cases. They also offer cosmetic dentistry, Botox and Invisalign, through the most up-to-date medical technology. They strive to help educate patients in their overall health and love to break down the barrier of anxiety that can come with going to the dentist. Dr. Jordan and Dr. Sugg believe in continuing education and have countless hours to provide all patients with high quality care. Both Dr. Jordan and Dr. Sugg are focused on building lifelong relationships with patients of all ages and their families.

TRACI FOX

T. Fox Salonspa Aveda • tfoxsalon.com Hoover Small Business Alliance • hooversmallbusinessalliance@gmail.com

Traci is the owner of T. Fox Salonspa Aveda and the Founder and President of the Hoover Small Business Alliance. She has two decades of entrepreneurial experience and is a fierce advocate for ALL small businesses. In addition to her work with the HSBA, Traci serves her community as a member of many organizations: both Shelby and Hoover Chambers of Commerce; Women’s Business Council; Small Business Work Group Committee; Shelby County Chamber Board of Directors; Alumni Board of Leadership Hoover; Advisory Board of RC3 Hoover City Schools. She is a graduate of Leadership Hoover and Leadership Shelby County. Traci founded “Fox Box,” which provides organic products and services to local cancer patients, and created a workplace shadowing program for young professionals in Hoover. Her accomplishments include: two-times recipient of Small Business of the Year Shelby County; voted Shelby Living’s Best of the Best Hair Salon AND Best Customer Service; voted Hoover’s Magazine’s Best of the Best Salon, Spa, Stylist and Barbershop; recognized as a Birmingham Women in Business Top Entrepreneur; Alabama State Small Business of the Year Award Top Finalist; and Top 200 Salon in America! Traci’s secret to her success is rooted in establishing strong company culture before all else. She is the epitome of a servant leader. When Traci is not serving her community, she enjoys spending time at the beach and with her family. Her newest family business venture is a wedding, lodging, event, vineyard, farm venue coming in 2025!

Low Country Love: Charleston

By Christiana Roussel | Photos Courtesy of Explore Charleston; Lowcountry Oyster Company; The Loutrel; The Mills House Hotel; and The Palmetto Hotel

Once the blistering, sweltering temps of summer have subsided, plan your perfect fall getaway to Charleston, South Carolina, where the low-country plough mud meets the buzzy, Southern charm of this old-world city. There is much to explore and enjoy.

where to stay

There is no shortage of great places to stay in Charleston—for long weekends or extended vacations. Bonus points to all who offer valet service or off-street parking, which is a premium in the “Holy City.”

Mills House—The well-appointed rooms are large and gracious and complemented by the property’s amenities including a rooftop pool with private cabanas (reserve in advance) and daily wellness classes on the private terrace. Dining options include The Black Door Café for coffee and grab-and-go shop featuring goods from local purveyors, as well as Iron Rose for a sophisticated dinner indoors or al fresco by the fountain.

Palmetto Hotel—Formerly known as The Saint Hotel, this boutique property has been fully remodeled and takes pride of place in the heart of it all on East Bay Street. From lobby, cozy bar and any of the 45 rooms, the soothing coastal palette is completely on point. Request a room with a Juliet Balcony to take in the balmier temps of fall.

Other properties we love: The Ryder Hotel (with its hip-andcool rooftop pool and open air bar—worth a pop-in, even if you aren’t staying here); Hotel Emeline (don’t miss brunch at Frannie & the Fox or knock out some emails alongside “laptopped” locals at Clerks Coffee Company); The Loutrel (still in the heart of everything you want to walk to but a bit quieter—high-ceilinged rooms with luxurious bedding may inspire you to hit the snooze button).

The Loutrel

The Palmetto Hotel

The Mills House Hotel

WHAT TO DO

Charleston is a walking city and best explored on foot. After you’ve left your keys with the hotel valet, be prepared to get in some steps. If you are interested in a guided walking tour of the city, contact Tommy Dew’s Walking Tour at tommydewswalktingtour@gmail.com. He can customize a tour to highlight your specific areas of interest. Once you get your bearings and want to explore more on your own, rent a golf cart from Island Rides (@IslandRidesSC) in downtown Charleston.

SHOPPING

King Street is an easy way to pass an afternoon where storied shops with local owners share the road with well-known national retailers. Croghan’s Jewel Box has been in the same location for more than 100 years, featuring new and antique jewelry. Bring home a vintage treasure from George C. Birlant Antiques. Grady Ervin & Co. will outfit the gentlemen in anything from coastal casual to field sport to tailored sportscoats.

Go see Suzette at Norton + Hodges at Charleston Place for African-inspired luxury accessories (think handbags crafted from sustainably-sourced crocodile or zebra and mink collar necklaces with ostrich-feather trim).

If you have little ones in tow, stop by The Tiny Tassel to pick up a copy of Dawn Burns’ “This is Charleston,” an illustrated introduction to the Holy City.

MUSEUMS

Celebrating and showcasing important works of art since 1905, the Gibbes Museum features a celebrated permanent collection alongside special exhibitions. Visit the website (or pop in) for the complete list of their classes and workshops.

The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art on the campus of the College of Charleston allows visitors to connect with more modern day artists’ works. Indie movie screenings, lectures and meet-the-artist events are all worth setting aside time for.

WHAT LOCALS WANT YOU TO KNOW

• “Beach traffic is a real thing here. If you’re planning a day on Sullivan's Island or Folly Beach, plan to leave Charleston early (8 a.m.) and to avoid return traffic, leave the beach by 3 p.m.”

• “King Street is great for shopping but not for walking-and-texting. The cobblestones are uneven and the sidewalk is narrow and can be crowded, so put your phone away and enjoy the views!”

• “Do not miss the grits at Miller’s All Day. Period.”

• “Try your hand (or eye) at mudlarking, the act of searching for bits of pottery or China lodged in the clay and sand of the area. The tides continue to wash ashore these small pieces of treasure from the past. There is a stretch of sandy walkway along the Battery where early 19th-century residents discarded their trash. You can still find shards of Mocha ware, blue-and-white China or terracotta tile remnants.”

• “Queen Street Grocery is the corner store of your dreams.”

“This is Charleston” by Dawn Burns

Folly Beach

CONNECT WITH HISTORY

Middleton Place—Whether you schedule a tour with a docent or explore in a self-guided fashion, history buffs will love discovering this storied plantation once owned by a signor of the Declaration of Independence, Arthur Middleton.

With a commanding view of the Charleston Harbor, the Edmonton-Alston House is one of the oldest along the High Battery. It has survived numerous hurricanes; the earthquake of 1886; and the Civil War. Schedule a visit when they offer their Wine on the Piazza events to get the full experience.

Book a boat tour to Fort Sumter, where you’ll cruise in to explore this Civil War landmark, now part of the National Park system.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Take the short drive over the Ravenel Bridge to Mount Pleasant and explore this nearby gem of a town. Take a guided kayak tour of Shem’s Creek with Nature Adventures. If you want new fishing gear, pop in to Rivers & Glen Trading Co. for the best in the business.

Go a little farther to Folly Beach to get some sand between your toes with an afternoon spent walking the shoreline (keep an eye out for sharks’ teeth that sometimes wash ashore). Book a “Farm Tour” with Lowcountry Oyster Company to learn the importance of this coastal habitat that provides those briny bites we adore. Small groups of 10 (or book a private tour) on their 20’ Carolina Skiff are the way to go.

Want more? Stop by Goat Sheep Cow for all your provisions before setting out with Cruisin’ Tikis Charleston, where a captain guides your floating tiki hut through the Charleston Harbor. If you are familiar with cookware from Charleston-based Smithey Iron Ware, make the stop to the business’s showroom to load up and save on shipping.

Charleston Waters

Middleton Place

Lowcountry Oyster Company

WHERE TO EAT

In the dining-out department, Charleston gives Birmingham a run for its money with the quantity and caliber of places to fill your belly. Regular visitors will tell you not to miss Peninsula Grill, FIG, Hall’s Chophouse (that bar scene) or The Ordinary (that seafood tower), and they’re not wrong. It would be a shame to miss out on places such as The Darling Oyster Bar, Ma’am Saab or Raw 167 (if there is a wait, go around the corner to grab a drink at their Bar 167 and order the caviar cone). Locals and visitors alike love Vern’s, so reservations can be hard to come by. Once you have your travel dates locked in, get on the Resy app to book your spot (if none are available, set an alert to be notified if something opens up). After dinner there, walk the few blocks for a nightcap at Elliotborough Mini Bar. Speaking of watering holes, don’t miss Little Jack’s Tavern, which is right around the corner from Leon’s Oyster Shop and Melfi’s.

While we’re talking Italian food, make time for the amazing sandwiches that Chef Anthony Marini is turning out at The Pass; he brings a trained chef’s skillset to the midday meal. Sorelle is an excellent choice for any time of day—pop in for a coffee and pastry in the morning, and grab something from their Sorelle’s ‘mercato’ to go. Come back later for dinner of ‘cicciones’ and branzino.

Other not-to-be-missed choices include Park & Grove, where bartender Amelia crafts some amazing cocktails with local ingredients; Chez Nous for pure French; and Bin 152 for wine and cheese.

If your plans take you to Sullivan’s Island, don’t miss Sullivan’s, Obstinate Daughter or High Thyme.

Peninsula Grill

The Darling Oyster Bar

Peninsula Grill

The Pass

Fall 2024 Events

Saturdays throughout the Fall

The Market at Brock’s Gap

Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

First Tuesday of Each Month

The Night Market at Brock’s Gap

Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

Tuesdays throughout the Fall Sight Coaching – Office Hours with Brad Koch Various Locations

Second Thursday of Each Month Coffee and Contacts Various Locations

Sept. 14

Birmingham Christian Family’s Celebrate the Family Expo The Finley Center

Nov. 12

S.A.V.I.E. Senior and Veterans Informational Expo

Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute

3200 Galleria Cir

Follow the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or visit hooverchamber.org to stay up to date on events.

Meet the Hoover Chamber’s New Chief Executive Officer, Nan Baldwin

On behalf of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, we are pleased to announce Nan Baldwin as the next chief executive officer of our organization. The board voted unanimously to appoint Nan to the position. She currently serves as the Birmingham Business Alliance’s Vice President, Chamber Operations, a position she has held since 2022. Nan has been a member of the BBA team since 2009. Your new chamber executive has the communication skills, collaboration expertise and knowledge of how a chamber operates and can impact a community to move your organization to a new level of service. She has worked with small, medium and large-sized businesses during her tenure with the BBA and will do the same in Hoover. Nan is committed to building the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce through the Elevate Hoover initiatives and to strengthen partnerships between local, state and national government officials.

Metropolitan Development Board, University of Alabama, Samford University, BellSouth Telecommunications and Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corporation. Nan earned her Master of Arts in Public and Private Management from Birmingham-Southern College and Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from the University of Alabama.

Please join us in welcoming Nan into her new role! She started her position with the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce on July 15.

We’d like to thank our search committee for their efforts in this process. Members of the committee included Rohen Porbanderwala, Lake Crest Chevron; Tyler Lipe, Regions Bank; Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power; Kim Starling, UAB Health System; Keith Barfield, CPA, BMSS Advisors; Greg Knighton, City of Hoover Liaison; and Vivian Mora, State Farm Agent / Owner and Board Member.

Nan currently leads all initiatives relating to the “chamber of commerce” side of the BBA. Other positions she has held with the BBA include partner and vice president of regional development. Other organizations she has worked for include the Birmingham

Your commitment, financial support and engagement in the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce is what makes our community able to move forward in a progressive and orderly fashion. Thank you for your continued encouragement. We look forward to seeing you at a chamber event soon!

Celebrating Growth

Amazing Lash January 26, 2024

El Jalisco June 18, 2024

Tradition Physical Therapy May 29, 2024

Expedia Cruises June 13, 2024

Iron Tribe April 30, 2024

New Members

uD & K Xpress

uIron Tribe Fitness

uBuck Creek Coffee

uVan Gogh Window Fashions

uHome Well Care Services

uBirmingham Chimney Services

uArise Knox Square

uMichael Cole Agency

dba Cole Insurance Group

uAK & M Cleaning Services, LLC

uMerrill Lynch Daniel Payne

uHumane Society of Shelby County

uAmazing Lash Studio Birmingham at Lee Branch

uGalactic Employer Services

uMorningside of Vestavia Hills

uArt House

uAscension IT

uEuropean Wax Center

uT-Mobile

uStone age Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

uOn-Site Productions

uSusan Dubose

– Alabama State Representative District 45

uEl Jalisco Mexican Restaurant

uEllason Mortgage

uIron Tribe Fitness Hwy-150

uOak Mountain Brewing Company

uJ.A.P. Senior Services LLC

uAveda Institute Birmingham

uTotal Sales Solutions, LLC

uPatient Transportation, LLC

uGreater Birmingham Apartment Association

uJamie Stone – Broker Associate – Keller Williams – Vestavia

uCareConnect Training Solutions, LLC

uPopBham

uGary Christian PGA Golfer

uEthan Allen

uWells Fargo Bank, N.A.

uTriaVision

uDREAM4

uSouthern States Bank

2024 Board of Trustees

Eric Land, ABC 33/40 Television

Brian Skelton, Air Experts

Brooke Wood, Alabama Credit Union

Dr. Timothy Lee, Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C.

Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power Company

Jabo Waggoner, Alabama State Senator Jabo Waggoner

Raven Bell, AlaTrust Credit Union

Jody Mattson, AmFirst-Downtown Birmingham

Terry Williams, AT&T

Linda Cencula, Avadian Credit Union

Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc.

Amyn Pabani, Birmingham Islamic Society

David Carmichael, Birmingham Obstetrics Gynecology, P.C.

Jeremy Ervin, Birmingham Water Works

Keith Barfield, BMSS Advisors & CPAs, LLC

Brandon Bornstein, Brookdale Senior Living

Cathy King, Brown Heating & Cooling

Mary Resha, Cadence Bank-Hoover

Joel Druxman, Cahaba Dermatology & Skin Health Center

Will Hawkins, CB&S Bank

Lori Moler, Children’s of Alabama

Chris Dorris, Chris Dorris State Farm Insurance

Alice Alexander, Cigna Healthspring

Andrew Ellis, Command Alkon

Kevin Pence, Commercial Construction and Maintenance, Inc.

Crystal Dixon, Costco Wholesale

Candace Rodgers, Cottages at Greystone

Jonathan Wilson, Dave and Buster’s

Jeff Bass, Diversicare of Riverchase

Nicole Self, Express Oil Change/Tire Engineers-Corporate Offices

Christy Patterson, Fresenius Kidney Care

Anne Smyth, Galleria Woods Retirement Community

Ches Allen, General Informatics

Jennifer Gilbert, Galactic Employer Services

Leisha Harris, Grandview Medical Center

Len Luther, Gresham, Smith and Partners

Joel Garcia, Infiniti

Deanna Adams, Innovative Fertility Specialists

Terry Poole, Long-Lewis of Hoover

Christina Bunn, Medical West Hospital

Luke Elder, Mercedes Benz of Birmingham

Heather Hove, Millennial Bank

Jeff Bass, Oaks on Parkwood

Ashley Pitts, Poseidon Spa

Reggie Torbor, Pylon Building Group

Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Bob Adams, Revere Control Systems, Inc.

Thomas Richardson, Riverchase Galleria

Carl Rice, Sam’s Club

Jenn Helvie, Shelby Printing

Dwight Sandlin, Signature Homes

Suzanne W. Bland, Sivirt LLC

Tamika Moore, Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

Maegen Estes-Darby, South Haven Health & Rehabilitation Center

Melody Jones, Southlake Orthopaedics Sports Medicine & Spine Center, P.C.

Kelvin Johnson, Spire Energy

Vivian Mora, State Farm Insurance-Vivian Mora Agency

Chase Thompson, Stone Age Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

Jason Wilson, T&C Construction

Jeff Lennex, Tameron Honda

Blake Braden, Tameron Hyundai

Terry Rippstein, Terracon Consultants, Inc.

Danielle Moore, Truewood by Merrill Gardens at Riverchase

Shane Jordan, Turtle Creek Enterprises

John Collier, United Community Bank

Ken West, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux-Tattersall

Jay Clark, Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC

Angela Panizzi, WalMart-Hoover #1229

Richard Edwards, WalMart SupercenterHighway 280 #2111

Jeffery Post, WalMart Neighborhood MarketLorna Road #3184

Meredith Boyd, Wayne’s Environmental Services dba Wayne’s Pest

Cody Burns, WBRC Fox 6 Television

Ellen Chandler, Whataburger

Lisa Autry, Your CBD Store

Find Us Online

Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors

Tyler Lipe, Regions Bank, 2nd Vice Chair

Keith Barfield, CPA BMSS Advisors Vice Chair Finance

Derrick Murphy, Hoover City Council Liaison Board Director

James Robinson, Board Director

Board Director

Board Director

Board Director

Shannon Driver, Gagliano Mortgage Board Director

Tyler Williams, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Board Director

Board Director

Starling, UAB Health System Vice Chair of Administration

Greg Knighton, City of Hoover Liaison Board Director

Aaron Dettling, Fortif Law Partners LLC Legal Advisor

Cori Perdue, Ph.D UAB Collat School of Business Board Director

Kimberly Starling, UAB Health System

Tyler Williams, Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Alan Lincoln, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc.

Lori Bussey, Dunn’s HVAC Plumbing and Electrical Brandi Ashley, Go Green Lawn

Paul Dangel, Hyatt

Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel Van Moody, Kale Me Crazy

Meribeth Gilbert,

Software Corporation HENDRICK CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM

Christy Moore, Kilwins

Henry King, King Acura

Tyler Lipe, Regions BankDowntown

Brian Ethridge, River Bank & Trust

Charlie Conklin, Sentry Heating, Air & Plumbing

Nancy Batson, Two Men and A Woman

Stephen Walsh, Weinberg Wheeler Hudgins Gunn & Dial

Brandon Wilson, Wilbron Inc.

McLeod

Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power, 1st Vice Chair

Kim

Rohen Porbanderwala, Lake Crest Chevron, 2024 Board Chair

Vivian Mora, State Farm Insurance

Sanjay Patel, Baron Hospitality, LLC

Kelvin Johnson, Spire

Johnathan Carter, PNC Financial Services

THE SEC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

On Sunday, May 26 at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, the Tennessee Vols defeated the LSU Tigers 4-3.

1. John Stuart, Tommy Cupples and Ron Fortenbury

2. Bryce Jaggers

3. Cody, Steve and Kyle Peals

4. Cooper Burleson and Peyton Kimbrough

5. Isaac Emery and Madison Smith

6. Sherrie Hulen, Julie Barnes and Kym Kyker

7. Anna Kay Bumgarner and Creek Robertson

8. David and Elliot Tubbs

9. Wesley George

10. Jacob Brister and Bryson Loe

11. Madison Gibson

12. The Jackson family

13. Tyke Tabor

14. Dale Eichelberver

15. Alex and Emily Oberholtzer

16. Cody and Genesis Hooks

17. Frank Brocato

18. Luke Dickey

PHOTOS

HYDRANGEAS UNDER THE STARS

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Friday, June 21, Aldridge Gardens held its annual fundraiser, “Hydrangeas Under the Stars,” featuring a live and silent auction, reception and plated dinner.

1. Amy Collins

2. Ann and Mark Davis

3. Bill and Lynn Paracca

4. Carl and Jennifer Stringfellow

5. Christell and Brownlee Fivesash

6. Christy and Amy

7. Deb and Jon Sellers

8. Isabel and Phillip Corley

9. Julie and Robert Kim

10. Kayla Neighbors and Mallory Evens

11. Ryan Smith and Amanda Knight

12. Shenavia and Derrick Murphy

13. Sheryl and Brian Collins

14. Traci Fox and Deb Sellers

15. Vernon and Kim Starling

THE BRIDGERTON BALL

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER & CONTRIBUTED

On Friday, June 21, the Hoover Public Library hosted a Bridgerton-themed ball in celebration of the show’s highly anticipated third season. Attendees came dressed in costumes and learned an English country dance.

1. Joyous

2. Anna Smith and Baylee Swan

3. Charles and Jeannie Long

4. The Davis family

5. Emma Fuller and Ashlyn Gardner

6. Haylee and Mia

7. Jaslin Whaley and Shannon Haddock

8. Henrika and Lily Taylor with Caroline and Lauren Lee

9. Nadia Cantu, Karina Ricard and Mara Carreno

10. Julia and Amber

11. Kayln Fuller and Kristen Shircliff

12. Kimber Bathie and Brittany Bathie

13. Loryn and Alishaba

14. Meagan Brown and Laura Scollard

THE CITY OF HOOVER’S FIREWORKS SHOW

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

On Sunday, June 30 at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, families tailgated in the parking lot and spent time at neighboring Brock’s Gap Brewing Company to view the city’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display.

1. Francisco I and Francisco II Solis

2. Brandilyn and Jazlyn Jackson

3. Theresa, Sarah and Ava Hawkins

4. The Haefs and Batson families

5. The McKinney family

6. The Seebeck, Agee and Lynn families

7. The Garren, Brown and Dunning families

THE HARTFORD NATIONALS

On Tuesday, July 16 at Oak Mountain State Park, the Hartford Nationals Paratriathlon took place, featuring athletes from all across the country. The city of Hoover co-sponsored this event.

1. Allison Jackson and Sierra Lester

2. Brenna and Holly

3. Cole

4. Dakota, Ryan, Eliza and Alexa

5. Dana Pele and Lori Coward

6. David Ramos

7. Ella and Maliya Emory

8. Macyn and Arille Kromuller

9. Maliya, Violet and Melanie

10. Max and Cole

11. Michelle and Alexis West

12. Olive and Willow Weidenhammer

13. Owen and Rachel Horsley

14. Owen Horsley

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

THE HARTFORD NATIONALS ARCHERY COMPETITION

On Thursday, July 18 at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, the city of Hoover hosted the Hartford Nationals archery competition.

1. Artemis 2. Debbie Smith and Rebecca Cline

Derrick 4. Emily, James and Debbie

Frankie 6. Gianna Thompson 7. Jennifer and Ella Ziolkowski

8. Kathy Bassnet 9. LaTriece and Gianna Thompson 10. Michael Sosa

11. Rachel, Jordane and Allison

12. Susan, Amy and Jenn

13. Victoria Thompson and Kathleen Doyle 14. Zoey 15. Michael Stone

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

Automation Personnel Services Hiring

IMMEDIATELY For:

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Property Real Estate Manager (live out). Sought by commercial real estate company. Worksite: Birmingham, AL. 36 months exp. req. in same job or, Private Household

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AUTOMATION L1 PLC DEVELOPER

Danieli Taranis (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsble for dvlpng sftwr prjct for autmtn sys.; intnl tstng of sftwr app on autmtn sys; drawing up ad prep. of oprtr manuals; field check, assurance that all field elctrcl eqpmnt is cnctd to autmtn sys; motor mvments accrdng to data sheet; mach. automatic mvmnts according to cycle diagram; monitor plant prdctvt. Bachelor’s in Cmptr Scnce or IT w/5 yrs of progress resp. prior wrk exp in the pstn offrd. or reltd. Mst knw (thru acad training or wrk exp) dvlpng MES autmtn sftwre using DELPHI XE2 & SQL ORACLE PL/SQL for bcknd dvlpmnt; dvlpng autmtn sftwre for steel indstry; SQL dtbse, Vsl Stdio Cde, Delphi 2005, Orcle dtbse, incl. Orcle ADF, Orcle SOA, & Orcle BPM. Resumes to r.woods@danieli. com.

Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500

•TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING

Production Supervisor

$50,000.00-$70,000.00/ year 10hr shifts Mon-Thurs Oversees production operations. Sets objectives, organizes workflow, prepares schedules, assigns responsibilities, trains employees, ensures safety, schedules maintenance, submits performance reports. Skills:-Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/match, Health/

Dental/Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING

2nd Shift Supervisor

$50,000.00-$70,000.00 2nd shift 2:30p.m.-

1:00a.m. Monday–Thursday Responsibilities: •Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment •Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments •Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING

Maintenance Technicians: Friday–Sunday 12 hour shifts 6:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader. Starting pay $19-$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653

University Baptist CDC

Pre-K In Montevallo NOW HIRING Auxiliary teachers for First Class 4-year-old Pre-K program. School year position with competitive pay. Auxiliary teachers must have Child Development Associate (CDA) or 9hrs Early Childhood Education/Development. Experience in First Class program & bilingual skills a plus. Also looking for substitute teachers. Wrap Around Care teacher to work 7am8am:2:30pm-4:30pm M-F. They need a highschool diploma and some experience working with children Openings Available in our 4 Pre-K classes. For questions or resumes, contact Lorrie Ozley: universitybaptistcdc@gmail. com

Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS!

Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

Shelby County Schools

Substitute Teachers Limitless opportunities for passionate people! •Free pre-hire training •Paid orientation •Ongoing professional development •Steady, yet flexible, work •Weekly pay •Your preference of schools Contact Anne Gamble:O: 205.682.7062 M: 205.532.1122 anne.gamble@ kellyservices.com

GENERAL LABORER & FORK LIFT

Operator at wood products manufacturing plant. 3 years experience is preferred. Must bring trade references. Mandatory routine drug tests and DOT safety inspections. Fork Lift Operator must have experience with large forklifts on a yard. EOE. Please apply in person during normal work hours (7:30 AM - 4:00 PM), 320 Joseph DR, Columbiana, AL.”

Tax Advisor, International Tax and Transaction Tax Services (International Corporate Tax Advisory) (Senior) (Multiple Positions), Ernst & Young U.S. LLP, Birmingham, AL. Apply online, go to:ey.com/ en_us/careers and click on “Careers - Job Search”, then “SearchJobs”(Job Number1472113).

Caliza LLC d/b/a Landing seeks a Senior Software Engineer in Birmingham, AL to contribute to the company’s core product platforms, building APIs and systems. Req. MS + 2 yrs exp or BS + 5 yrs exp. Salary range for position: $170,000.00 - $200,000.00. 100% telecommuting role. Reports to company headquarters in Birmingham, AL. Can work remotely or telecommute. To apply, mail resume to:Caliza LLC d/b/a Landing, Attn: HR, 17 20TH Street North, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35203. Must Reference Job Title: & Code: 000012. EOE.

LEAD ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsble for dsgng, dvlpng, & tsting automtn sys for y steel mnfctrng eqpmnt & mchnry, Q-HEAT, Q-DRIVE, & Q-ONE tech, & dvlpng logic & parmetrs; inspctng exstng hrdwre w/in the plnt to prpre for installtn of drives & automtn sftwre; creatng elctrcl diagrms of autmtn sys, motor/ sensr lsts for plnts, autmtn blck diagrms of plnt ntwrks, motor wrkng cycls sensr or transltr data sheets, plnt lyout & dtails of areas in AutoCAD frmt; creatng I/O lst for hrdwre dsgn & dvlpng autmtn sftwre; creatng opertor mnuals. Master’s in Elctrcl Engnrng or rel field w/2 yrs prev wrk exp in pos off or rel. Mst know (thru acdmc trainng or wrk exp) Ethrnet Confgurator & Profibus/Profinet; Codesys; Target Monitor; Q-Drive Configurator parmtrztion; & induction heatng & Q-One tech. Wrks at clients’ manfctrng wrksites acrss contnntl U.S. Resumes to C.Hegarty@danieli.com

South Pointe Development

203 Shiloh Creek Drive Calera, AL 35040Updating Waiting List:3 BDR 2 Bath Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30 Multi-Family No Pets Allowed 205-6681196.

Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available. No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control

Wanted Maintenance/ Handyman to assist with vehicle and land upkeep. Must pass background & drug test, have reliable transportation, be able to drive a manual transmission and be willing to work. Apply in person at 115 Commerce Drive Pelham, AL 35124 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control

MY HOOVER

ALI MIMS

Miss Alabama’s Teen

Eat Local Tazikis

I love the signature Friday Pasta from Tazikis! We were so blessed to have Tazikis sponsor the Miss Hoover pageant this year and provide delicious meals. Tazikis also sponsored my Joyful Noise Talent Show. They are so supportive and have amazing food!

Serving the Community

Miss Hoover’s Teen

During my reign as Miss Hoover’s Teen, former Miss Hoover, Abbie Stockard–now Miss Alabama–and I had the opportunity to attend the 9/11 Climb at the Riverchase Galleria. Being able to see what all the firefighters had to do during 9/11 was definitely eye opening. I was also honored to sing the National Anthem. Singing the National Anthem for events that honor our nation’s heroes is always so special. I will forever remember this event.

Investing in Young Girls’ Futures

Miss Hoover Pageant

The best event in Hoover has to be the Miss Hoover pageant! The Miss America program is the largest provider for scholarships to women in the country. The Miss Hoover pageant is the largest preliminary scholarship provider for the Miss Alabama competition. Being able to represent Hoover as Miss Hoover’s Teen was an experience like no other, and I gained so much during my year. The Hoover community opened so many doors for me, and I will cherish my year forever.

A Pinch of Prayer

Metropolitan Church of God

My faith is something that is very important to me, and I have been able to get so involved at my church. They are so supportive of me being Miss Alabama’s Teen, and their constant prayers mean the world to me. To know that I have such a supportive congregation here in Hoover is so special.

Sentimental Sports

Veterans Park

I had the honor of singing the National Anthem at Veterans Park for the Alabama Veterans Association. I also put up a tent for my non-profit, Joyful Noise Foundation, during the annual fall “Hay Hoover” event. I was able to put out my “Make a Joyful Noise” books and help educate the children that came to my booth about music education. I laid out instruments that I purchased with the money I raised, and kids came by and played them. It was such a fun opportunity, and I hope I was able to educate Hoover on making “a joyful noise!”