Hoover's Magazine April 2015

Faith of a Mustard Seed Boutique sells Christian clothing and accessories

Race Rundown Support local groups with April walks & 5Ks

April 2015 Hooversmagazine.com $4.95

Sweet Treats Urban Pops serves up desserts and more

State Champs Bucs boys basketball brings home the title

Having a baby isn’t just about deciding which hospital any more.

Because when you have your baby at St. Vincent’s Birmingham and St. Vincent’s East, you work with your birth designer to customize your birth wishes and make important decisions about your birth experience. Learn more about designing your own birth experience at stvhs.com/monogrammaternity.

#IDecideHow

St. Vincent’s Birmingham | St. Vincent’s East

Be Inspired If you’re like me, resolutions have long been broken, and you could really use some motivation. And that’s exactly what you’ll find as you flip through this issue.

You’ll read stories featuring inspirational people, businesses and events that are sure to encourage you.

It’s hard to find a story more uplifting than that of Chip Arledge, page 20. The Hoover radio host, known on air as “The Fat Man,” lost 200 pounds by changing his diet and exercising. His routine started on a small scale, walking about a mile through his neighborhood. Now, he runs 25 miles or bikes 75 miles a week – or a combination of the two.

He’s proof that you can do anything you put your mind to doing.

One store sharing hope through its clothes and accessories is Mustard

April 2015 Issue Copyright 2015 Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Questions or comments?

Call 669-3131 or email info@hooversmagazine.com

Seeds, page 24. From baby items with Bible verses on them to faith-based jewelry, the shop has something for everyone. Plus, their items would make for the perfect Easter presents.

After reading these articles, you might wonder what you can do to give back to others. There will be 5Ks and walks every weekend in April, so it’s just a matter of finding the right one for you. The events will benefit groups like Children’s of Alabama, Autism Society of Alabama, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and Camp Seale Harris.

You can get some exercise while supporting a good cause – what’s better than that? Read more about these runs on page 12.

Do you have a story you’d like us to share? Email me, and you may see it in the magazine soon. n

Lauren Dowdle lauren.dowdle@hooversmagazine.com Twitter: @HooversMag Facebook.com/HooversMagazine Instagram: HooversMag

EDITORIAL

ADMINISTRATIVE

DESIGN

MARKETING

Graham Brooks

Tim Prince

Jamie Dawkins

Ashley Duckett

Molly Davidson

Katie McDowell

Layken Gibbs

Daniel Holmes

Lauren Dowdle

Mary Jo Eskridge

Robyn Holm

Nicole Loggins

Baker Ellis

Kristy Brown

Amanda Porter

Kim McCulla

Emily Sparacino

Emily Connell

Rhett McCreight

Neal Wagner

Laurel Cousins

Meagan Mims

Hailey Dolbare

Kari Yoder

Cover Photo By David McElroy Hoover’s Magazine is published monthly 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 $20.41 for one year by emailing subscribe@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. 526.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

FEATURES 8

State Champs Bucs win their first-ever boys basketball state title

20

‘Fat Man’ Slims Down How a local radio host lost 200 pounds

50

Pop Shop Enjoy more than gourmet popsicles at this new Hoover eatery

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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inside

8

20

12 24

42 RECREATION 8 State Champs

Bucs win their firstever boys basketball state title

12

Race Rundown Hit the ground running this month to support great causes

FEATURE 20 ‘Fat Man’

Slims Down How a local radio host lost 200 pounds

6

50

FASHION 24 Faith of a

Mustard Seed Boutique sells Christian clothing and accessories

EDUCATION 30 Snippets

What’s going on in Hoover education and beyond

SPECIAL SECTION 34 Chamber of

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Commerce See the newly elected and installed 2015 Board of Directors

AT HOME 42 Eclectic Style

Owner welcomes friends, family and cooking shows to her updated home

HEALTH & BEAUTY 49 Best Summer Ever Count on kids’ camps at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

FOOD & DRINK 50 Pop Shop

Enjoy more than gourmet popsicles at this new Hoover eatery

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Editor’s Note 17

The Book Nook

18

Aldridge Gardens newsletter

55

Hoover Area Chamber Connection

61

Spotted

77

Calendar

79

Classifieds

82

Why I Love Hoover

Live More Fully.

Built with the belief that coming home is its own reward.

Introducing the Cherry Laurel, the first of a new series of homes designed to complement and embellish the Mt Laurel experience. Our new homes not only include top-of-the-line products from brands like Kohler® and KitchenAid,® there’s also a heightened emphasis on materials and craftsmanship throughout. In a town known for its walkable community lifestyle, our new floor plans are equally compelling reasons to call Mt Laurel home.

Experience Mt Laurel at our Annual Spring Festival Saturday April 11th 10am-3pm

(205) 408-8696 | mtlaurel.com

recreation

State Champs Bucs win their first-ever boys basketball state title WRITTEN AND PHOTOS BY GRAHAM BROOKS

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

H

oover needed one final victory against a familiar area opponent to secure their first AHSAA boys basketball state championship, and they did just that, knocking off the defending two-time state champion Mountain Brook Spartans 50-43.

Hoover got off to a hot start in front of a packed BJCC Arena, as Austin Cherry and Kevy Eason connected on two 3-pointers.

Then, a steal and layup by Sam Bowman gave Hoover an 8-0 lead with 4:26 left in the first quarter.

Mountain Brook would settle down and fight back to tie the game at 8 until Hoover’s Leonard Wood made a jumper with 5 seconds left in the first quarter to give Hoover a 10-8 lead going into the second quarter.

The second quarter was a back-and-forth affair that saw Hoover and Mountain Brook trade numerous baskets. Despite shooting just 27.3 percent from the field in the first half, Mountain Brook only trailed Hoover 21-20 going into the half.

Hoover would open up the second half similar to how they did in the first quarter.

Cherry and Wood both made lay ups, and Wood stole the ball from Mountain Brook’s Hunter Lucas and made another lay up, extending Hoover’s lead to 27-22.

Mountain Brook used some key offensive rebounds and connected on back-to-back and-one drives by Terrell Guy and Hunter Lucas to give Mountain Brook its largest lead of the game at 30-27, with 3:52 remaining in the third quarter.

Hoover got help off the bench in the third

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Hoover’s Maurice Brown (30) and other Hoover players celebrate at midcourt after defeating Mountain Brook 5043 in the 7A Basketball State Championship final. Hoover is awarded the AHSAA Class 7A boys basketball state championship trophy for the first time after defeating Mountain Brook 50-43. A Mountain Brook player attempts to drive the lane. Hoover head coach Charles Burkett looks to provide instruction to his team.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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Hoover and Mountain Brook squared off in the AHSAA Class 7A boys basketball state championship.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

quarter as 11 of the Bucs 15 points were scored from the help of bench players.

Shaquille Bracey was one of those players who came in and made a big play for the Bucs off of the bench.

Bracey stole the ball from Mountain Brook’s Drew Smith and dunked the ball, giving the Bucs a 36-32 lead and the momentum.

Jack Kline made two free throws at the end of the third quarter to pull the Spartans to within 36-34 going into the fourth quarter. Kline finished with 15 points in the game.

Cherry’s clutch-free throw shooting was the story of the fourth quarter, as Hoover outplayed Mountain Brook in the last two minutes of the game to secure the victory.

Cherry finished the game with a team-high 14 points and tied for a team-high 9 rebounds as he was awarded the championship MVP. “Winning the games the way we’ve been winning them just further cements our philosophy as far as defense wins basketball games,” says Hoover head coach Charles Burkett after the game. “It gives you an opportunity to win basketball games. At the end of the day, you have to put the ball in the basket.

But our defense gave us countless opportunities, and eventually it came around.”

A disappointing stat — Charles Burkett for Mountain Brook was their shooting percentage, particularly from behind the 3-point line, as the Spartans made just one 3-pointer out of 18 total attempts in the game.

“Tonight we were 1 for 18,” says Mountain Brook head coach Bucky McMillan of his team’s poor shooting. “Percentage wise, we shot 18 threes and made 5 percent of them. That’s tough against anybody, but it’s extremely tough against somebody like Hoover, because they have such athleticism that you can’t just take advantage of them inside.”

Mountain Brook shot just 27.9 percent from the field in the game.

Hoover players, coaches and administrators exchanged numerous hugs and high fives following the hard-fought victory in a school that is well known for being a football powerhouse in the state.

Hoover finished the year with a 27-9 record and claimed the school’s first-ever AHSAA Class 7A state boys basketball title. n

“At the

end of the day, you have to put the ball in the basket.”

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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recreation

Race Rundown

Hit the ground running this month to support great causes

N

WRITTEN BY AMY JONES | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

ow that spring is starting to take over and leave the chilly temperatures behind, running events are popping up in

eat a dozen Krispy Kreme doughnuts in one hour or less. If a runner isn’t quite up for the physical rigors of the competitive run, he or she can sign up for the casual runner division Hoover. and eat as many doughnuts as desired while If you enjoy walks and 5K events, you can completing the run within an hour and a half. participate in at least one every weekend. Here’s There is also a fun run slated for the event. the rundown on some fun events to watch for.

The cost to participate is $15 for the fun run, $20 for the casual runner division and $25 for the competitive runner division. Proceeds KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUT DASH, APRIL 4 raised from the event will go to Children’s of Alabama.

For runners looking to do something a little “This is a great opportunity for serious different, the Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash, runners to add a new wrinkle to their racing,” says event organizer Greg Stein. “It allows to be held April 4 at Veterans Park, certainly offers a new challenge. casual runners to participate in a fun event.

Participants will complete a 4-mile run and And it allows everyone to feel like they are 12

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

ABOVE: Medal winners from Walk for Autism & 5K pose together after finishing the race.

doing something very neat for our community.”

This year’s fundraising goal for the event is $40,000, Stein says. The run will begin at 8 a.m., and animals are not permitted to participate in the race.

For more information on the Doughnut Dash or to pre-register, visit K2d2fun.com.

WALK FOR AUTISM & 5K, APRIL 11 The Walk for Autism raises money for the Autism Society of Alabama, but it also fulfills another goal – bringing together families that are learning to live with a family member’s autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis.

“I love being involved with the walk because it brings together families that either have

just received a diagnosis of ASD and are eager to meet other families, or they’ve been a part of the ASD community for a while and love seeing the progress the Autism Society of Alabama has made,” says Lauren Reid, fundraising manager for the event.

The April 11 event includes a 5K race, which begins at 7:30 a.m. Registration will start at 7 a.m. The event also includes a noncompetitive 2-mile Awareness Walk. Check-in and registration for the walk begins at 8:30 a.m., and the walk will begin at 9:30 a.m. Preregistration is $30, while registration on the day of the event will be $35.

Animals can be involved with the walk, but dogs must be on a leash at all times, Reid says.

This will be the fourth year the Walk for

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash raises money for Children’s of Alabama. The goal of the Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash is to complete a 4-mile course and eat a dozen doughnuts within an hour. Some participants get extra excited at the donut stations.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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Autism will be held at Hoover’s Veterans Park.

Last year’s Walk for Autism raised $150,000 across 15 events. This year, the Autism Society of Alabama hopes to reach the $200,000 mark, Reid says.

“The money stays here in Alabama and goes toward networking groups, family camps, scholarships for conferences and programs such as the Safety Net Campaign and the Autism Friendly Campaign,” Reid says.

For more information on the Walk for Autism or to pre-register, visit Walkforautismal. com.

PURPLESTRIDE BIRMINGHAM, APRIL 18

Pre-registration for children ages 3 to 12 is $15 for the timed run and $10 for the walk at PurpleStride.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

PurpleStride events across the country help drive attention to an oft-overlooked disease – pancreatic cancer.

“Fifteen years ago, awareness of pancreatic cancer was significantly low,” says Cory Finney, an events specialist with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. “Currently, tens of thousands of people across the country participate in our signature PurpleStride event, making an

enormous impact by driving more attention to our cause.”

PurpleStride Birmingham, which will be held April 18 at Veterans Park, features a timed 5K run and a 1-mile walk, as well as children’s activities, music and refreshments.

Pre-registration for the timed run is $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 3-12. For the walk, pre-registration is $25 for adults and $10 for children ages 3-12. Registration on the day of the event will be $5 more for every age group and event. Children younger than 2 years old do not need to register, and animals are not allowed at this event.

Registration will open at 7:30 a.m., opening ceremonies at 8:30 a.m. and the walk/run begins at 9 a.m., Finney says.

The fundraising goal for PurpleStride Birmingham is $119,375, with all proceeds going directly to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network to fund research, provide patient support and advocate for more public awareness and government assistance. Pancreatic cancer is the fourth-leading cause of cancer deaths, Finney says.

“PurpleStride is an uplifting experience,

meant to create hope and encouragement for people who’ve been deeply affected by pancreatic cancer,” he says.

For more information on PurpleStride Birmingham or to pre-register, visit PurpleStride.org/Birmingham.

DIABETES WALK FOR CAMP SEALE HARRIS, APRIL 26 The Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris may resemble a block party more than a typical 5K event, with a live DJ, dancing, hoop jamming, activities for children, healthy snacks and, of course, 1K and 5K courses.

Another reason for families to check it out?

It’s free. There is no charge to participate, but participants are encouraged to raise money or donate. All participants raising or donating $50 or more will receive a T-shirt.

The walk, which will be held April 26 at Veterans Park, benefits Camp Seale Harris, Alabama’s only camp designed for youths with diabetes.

Rhonda McDavid, who works with the walk, says she got involved with Camp Seale Harris

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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after her son was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes at age 4 in 2003.

“He attended diabetes camp for the first time at age 5,” McDavid says. “He learned confidence in dealing with diabetes, and we found the support, encouragement and learning so beneficial to him and our entire family.”

Event organizers hope to raise $50,000, which will go to help provide the cost of scholarships and subsidies for children in need to attend Camp Seale Harris.

“No child is ever turned away from Camp Seale Harris,” McDavid says. “Over 70 percent of our campers receive partial or full financial assistance.”

Participants can pre-register online or register on the day of the event beginning at 2 p.m. The walk will begin at 2:30 p.m. Animals can participate in the walk but must be on leashes.

For more information on the Diabetes Walk or to pre-register, visit Firstgiving.com/9619/ diabetescampwalk-Birmingham. n LEFT: The Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris will have a 5K, live DJ, dancing, hoop jamming, snacks and activities for the whole family.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

the book nook

Read. Write. Draw.

The Hoover Public Library is branching out from Southern Voices to start a conference that promotes children and teen literature.

Read.Write.Draw. will debut on April 18 in the Library Theatre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A panel of authors will lead several sessions during this free event.

Jeff Mack began as an Katie Jane Morris illustrator, but he’s been able to Children’s Librarian call himself an author since 2008.

Hoover Public Library He pens picture books (“Ah Ha!” and “Good News Bad News”), beginning readers (“Hippo & Rabbit in Three Short Tales”) and novels with doodles (“Clueless McGee”).

Amber McRee Turner is the author of two children’s novels, “Sway” and “Circa Now,” both published by Disney-Hyperion. A Birmingham native, McRee enjoys Photoshopping, listening to big band music and chasing chickens (not necessarily at the same time).

Lou Anders is the author of the new middle-grade fantasy adventure series “Thrones & Bones.” The first book, “Frostborn,” introduces young readers to fantasy fiction in a way that he hopes would’ve excited him as a child. In addition to writing books, he has written movie scripts, written and directed plays and was a journalist in Hollywood. Anders now lives in Birmingham.

Lori Nichols is a Birmingham author and illustrator.

She looks to nature and her family for much of her inspiration. When not writing, she can be found building terrariums, collecting acorn tops and playing kickball.

Her debut book, “Maple,” was named winner of the 2014 Giverny Award for Best Children’s Science Picture Book.

The follow-up, “Maple & Willow Together,” was released in November.

Sharon Cameron is a Nashville author who is obsessed with Scotland and her longbow. Her teen books, “The Dark Unwinding and A Spark Unseen,” make science seem like magic. Her newest title, “Rook,” will be published in April. She also coordinates the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Midsouth Conference.

Katie Jane Morris is the children’s librarian of the Hoover Public Library. Visit Hooverlibrary.org for more information. n April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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Fairy Furniture and Gnome Knickknacks Saturday, April 25, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. $20 Members/$27 Non-Members.

Adult with Child (age 7+): $35 Members/$47 Non-Members Class limited to 20; register at aldridgegardens.com.

Hydrangeas Under the Stars: Hoover’s Social Event of the Year Saturday, June 6, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Rain Date: Sunday, June 7, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Jennifer Wallace brings her distinctive design talent to Aldridge Gardens. Using materials from nature, you will learn to make charming miniature furniture. Jennifer will teach you to construct a tiny chair perfect for your favorite fairy or gnome. Bring your own twigs, straight, curved and crooked with a diameter smaller than a pencil. Bring buttons, lace, pearls, ultra-fine glitter, etc. and clippers to cut twigs. Bring a glue gun, or you may borrow one from us. Prepare for fairies and gnomes to inhabit your garden!

Join us for an evening of great food, entertainment, and silent and live auctions, while supporting Aldridge Gardens. Hydrangeas Under the Stars is our premier fundraiser each year. Our young Gardens needs funds so we can grow and continue to give the public a unique garden experience; to offer exceptional venues for weddings, parties, social and corporate events throughout the year; and to provide educational field trips, programs and camps for thousands of children. Mark your calendars, so you won’t miss this wonderful garden gala!

Aldridge Gardens is a 501 (c) 3 organization.

For information, visit aldridgegardens.com.

Guided Bird Walk for Members Only

Saturday, April 18, 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.

Bring your binoculars and join Dr. Richard and Patricia Ryel for a walk on our grounds to view the many species of birds in the Gardens.

This monthly event is free, but space is limited. Please register at aldridgegardens.com.

Sign up now for summer camps! Our popular summer camps for girls and boys fill up quickly. For information and to register, visit aldridgegardens.com.

JOIN TODAY! Members of Aldridge Gardens enjoy many benefits, including reciprocal benefits at over 300 gardens throughout the US. Visit aldridgegardens.com for complete information about our different levels of giving and the benefits of each level.

3530 Lorna Road | Hoover, Alabama 35216 • 205-682-8019 • www.aldridgegardens.com • info@aldridgegardens.com

Gentle Yoga Classes at Aldridge Gardens Reconnect with your body and breath, while surrounded by nature. Join Star Rosser for her Gentle Yoga classes at Aldridge Gardens on Wednesday mornings through June (no class June 3). Classes are drop-in, weather permitting. $15 per class. Bring a yoga mat, a thick towel, a positive attitude and an open heart. starletrosser@yahoo.com or 205.821.2918

In the Gallery: Plein-air Artists Meet the Artist Reception: Thursday, April 9, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Aldridge Gardens Propagators private reception with the artists: 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

A special exhibition of the works of Plein-air artists will be featured during the months of April and May. Ten artists will each display three paintings done at Aldridge Gardens.

Also, don’t miss our unique collection of Frank Fleming bronze pieces, now showcased in the gallery.

The Eddie & Kay Aldridge Art & Historical Collections Museum is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except when a special event is taking place inside the house.

ALDRIDGE GARDENS Sustaining Sponsors for 2015: Eddie and Kay Aldridge Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Energen Corporation International Expeditions Ken Jackson Ed and Barbara Randle Renasant Bank Councilman Gene Smith and Pam Smith April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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feature

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

‘Fat Man’ Slims Down How a local radio host lost 200 pounds WRITTEN BY AMY JONES PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

W

hen Chip Arledge is on the radio, he’s known as The Fat Man. However, for the 55-year-old Hoover resident, that moniker is no longer strictly accurate.

In 2004, the 6-foot-3 Arledge weighed around 400 pounds. Today, he weighs 201 pounds.

He weighed 400 pounds for the same reasons so many gain weight — a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet. “I have no one to blame but me,” he says.

It took a lot of sweat to make that weight loss happen, but Arledge said it was necessary.

“I’d always told myself, while ignoring my health, if my horrible lifestyle manifested itself in something really bad that I could change,” he says. “It manifested itself in some health problems typical for a 400-pound-plus man.

So I changed.”

Arledge says he lost the weight through simple techniques that are often deceptively difficult.

“I watch what I eat, eat less of it, drink less and exercise more. It’s really that simple,” he says. “No surgery: I want to emphasize that.”

Although exercising when overweight can be difficult, he says it has to be done. “You

LEFT: Arledge’s fun, energetic personality is contagious to everyone who meets him. ABOVE: He has come a long way since weighing 400 pounds, as seen in the above photo.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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ABOVE: On the radio, Arledge is known as The Fat Man, but that name doesn’t fit his appearance anymore.

have to start slowly, but you have to start somewhere,” Arledge says. “I started by walking 1.4 miles through my hilly Russet Woods neighborhood. Then, when I thought I’d lost enough weight that I wouldn’t tear my legs up, I began to jog a few steps — 25 the first day, 50 the next and so on.”

From there, he began running until he developed some foot and hip problems, at which point he bought a bicycle.

“Now, depending on the weather, I do a fair amount of both. Running 25 miles a week or riding a bike 75 miles a week, or a combination thereof,” he says. “For better or worse, I’ve done this without professional medical help.”

He says he’d like to lose 10 more pounds, but his weight loss has plateaued. “My son says I shouldn’t lose any more.

‘Decrepit old man,’ he calls me. I can live with what I’ve done — literally and figuratively,” he says.

When it comes to others who want to lose weight, Arledge had some words of wisdom to share: “Make the decision to change your lifestyle and stick with it.

Set modest goals and reward weekly success. Don’t kick yourself if you backslide and gain some weight.

“You’ll run into critics who question your fortitude, resolve, methods, motivation, appearance and all manner of other things, which are none of their business,” he says.

“Don’t look for others to help. This is your life — no one else’s. And when things occasionally don’t go your way or you don’t achieve your goals in the short term, remember there are no bad days. Soldier on.”

He says it’s also important to prioritize your time, and put the effort in to get it done. “You really, really have to 22

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

carve out the time.”

Another important component to his success was his employer’s support. “Employers have to recognize the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and need to be supportive when their employees attempt to better themselves,” he says. “Mine has been outstanding.”

Arledge also says losing so much weight has benefits that extend beyond better health.

“Clothes are easier to find. I save money on food and drinks. I don’t have to use the seat belt extender when I fly,” he says. “I get cold more easily. Don’t have to worry about fitting in football stadium seats. More women buy me drinks. But that’s about it.”

Arledge has a lot of former experience with those seat belt extenders. He operates several radio stations out of his home for The Eagle Radio Group. Although he lives in Hoover, the radio stations serve northern Michigan. He currently travels to Michigan about eight times per year.

Originally, Arledge moved to Hoover in 2004 to operate some Birmingham radio stations, but he lost his job in 2008 during the economic downturn.

“Oddly enough, my current employer, with whom I’ve been friends for almost 30 years, called me the day I was let go to see if I’d help him start his radio group. The coincidence was odd, even eerie,” — Chip Arledge Arledge says.

However, Arledge’s family wanted to stay in Hoover for the schools and for his wife’s job. He decided to move to Michigan, where he lived for four years, traveling back to see his family when he was able. In 2012, technological advances meant he was able to move back to Hoover and work out of his home.

“I missed my only child, Zyggy’s, sixth to ninth grade years while I was away, and I missed him more than I miss being 10 years old, so it was great to be able to return,” he says. “The decision to leave my son in the Hoover schools has worked out, as he is a first-team All-State offensive lineman for the Hoover football team.”

But back to Arledge’s nickname. He said he has no plans to seek out a new moniker, although he’s certainly slimmed down.

“It’s easy to remember, and the radio business many times depends on a listener’s top-of-mind recall. I’m still a fairly big ol’ boy too,” he says. “I’ve had others say ‘The Fat Man’ doesn’t fit. A friend of mine said, ‘Tell them it’s The Phat Man.’ I’m OK with that.” n

“You have to

start slowly, but you have to start somewhere.”

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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fashion

Janice Dance and Melinda Lawry opened Mustard Seeds in 1997 in Homewood and moved it to Hoover in 2012.

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Faith

of a

Mustard Seed Boutique sells Christian clothing and accessories WRITTEN BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

W

hat started at home and craft shows soon grew into kiosks and then a storefront in the mall. Now, this clothing store has blossomed into a thriving wholesale business in Patton Creek. And it all started with faith the size of a mustard seed.

After first opening Mustard Seeds in Homewood in 1997, owners Melinda Lawry and Janice Dance decided to concentrate on their wholesale line. So, they opened a retail location in Hoover’s Patton Creek near Zoes Kitchen three years ago that sells Christian

clothing lines for women and children.

“When we opened our store, we wanted to create an environment where people would come in and just find some peace in this crazy world,” Lawry says.

The store’s name was inspired by a Bible verse (Matthew 17:20): “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed… nothing will be impossible for you.” A call for boldness weighed heavy on the women’s minds, and the idea for the business grew from there.

“We wanted to start a line that was fashionable and at the same time allowed us to share April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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our faith with others,” Lawry says.

When they first started out, they focused on a white, cotton T-shirt line with charcoal drawings that has now evolved into graphic shirts and other accessories.

“Our first baby design was a little train and the scripture was, ‘Train up a child,’ (Proverbs 22:6),” Dance says.

From there, they continued to add designs.

The newest one centers on “Worth the Wait,” based off of 1 Samuel 1:27. The ladies say it is the perfect gift for a family that has been waiting for a baby.

“We have so much fun creating new inspirational designs using the latest fashion trends,” Dance says. “All of our designs are created to spread the gospel and the message of hope.”

Rounding out the inspired style is a new gold graphic tee introduced this past fall. Another popular addition is a lace cross shirt that reminds the ladies of “The Old Rugged — Matthew 17:20 Cross” hymn.

To complement the clothing, the women also offer stunning accessories. They have a variety of inspirational necklaces, bracelets and

“If you have faith

as small as a mustard seed…nothing will be impossible for you.”

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Mustard Seeds has a welcoming atmosphere and is filled with faithbased clothing and accessories. Their jewelry line includes hammered cross earrings. Their first baby design was “Train up a child,” which comes from Proverbs 22:6. The “Worth the Wait” and other baby designs are perfect for families expecting a child. They have home décor items inspired by Bible verses.

earrings.

There are also hammered cross earrings, multi-charm bracelets and Alabama map necklaces featuring both Tuscaloosa and Auburn that are popular. The necklaces range from $27.95 for the small size to $32.95 for the larger size.

For those not sure what clothing and accessories should be paired, the store manager, Carol Kirk, loves to help customers put outfits together.

“Mustard Seeds has changed our lives for the better in so many ways,” Lawry says.

“We get to talk and share with our sweet customers on a daily basis. Sometimes, we encourage them, and sometimes they bless us by sharing their stories with us. We really should invest in a box of tissues for the store.

“We want to spread as many mustard seeds as we can,” Lawry says.

Mustard Seeds is located at 180 Main Street Suite 132. They are open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, follow them on Facebook and Instagram (Mustard_Seeds).n

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

27

happening in hoover

Simmons Thespian Society wins top award Simmons Middle School’s Thespian Society was awarded the highest ranking of “accomplished” during the Alabama Thespian Festival at Samford University Jan. 16-17.

Led by theater director Delle Kincaid, Brian Cain the group’s one-act play, “Snow Show,” won top honors. In addition, Simmons Principal Brian Cain was named the 2015 Alabama Fine Arts Administrator of the Year. He was chosen based on a nomination from the fine arts staff and was selected from multiple middle and high school administrators. There were 850 middle and high school students from across the state at the festival.

Students competed in various events, participated in workshops and viewed other school performances.

Prince of Peace holds open house All who visited Prince of Peace’s “Popapalooza” open house during this year’s Catholic Schools Week saw students writing code, producing music videos about math and exploring hands-on engineering, art, music, theatre and faith-based offerings.

The school showcased its STREAM curriculum with interactive and exploratory activities throughout its classrooms on the Hoover campus.

PoP has embraced the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education model and has also added an “R” for religion and an “A” for art to provide its students with a world-class, faith-based education.

Greystone golfer signs with UAB Greystone Golf & Country Club hosted a National Signing Day for John Hayden, son of Gavin and Marianthi. He decided to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the fall.

The Briarwood senior signed his letter of intent on Feb. 4 to accept a golf scholarship from the UAB Blazers.

“I love the coach, the people on the team and the program,” Hayden says.

“In my mind, there’s not a better place 30

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

to go.”

Hayden also held offers from Mississippi State and South Alabama, and Southern Mississippi was also interested in Hayden.

Hayden has also raised a significant amount of money for the Bradley Johnson Memorial Foundation to the tune of $42,000. The foundation provides funds for underprivileged golfers to participate in USGA tournaments.

More than 500 current and prospective students came through the PoP doors that evening with their families to experience the “Brain Builders: Minds under Construction” themed evening.

The theme tied into the campus building expansion currently underway at PoP. The expanded space will be ready for next school year, decreasing class size in the lower grades and giving the middle school its own state-of-theart space.

School tours are available on Thursdays and may be scheduled by calling Principal Connie Angstadt at 205-824-7886.

happening in hoover

Greystone’s Drama Club presents ‘Peter Pan’ Never Never Land made its way to Greystone Elementary School as the fifth grade Drama Club presented “Peter Pan” on Feb. 19 and 20.

“It takes a lot of work,” says GES music teacher Dr. Sara Womack, explaining the Drama Club students had been preparing for the musical since October. It included 18 songs and a student-made set.

Students are offered the opportunity to audition for a part in the cast in the beginning of the year, and they can also work behind the scenes as assistant directors, the lighting and sound crew or the stage crew.

Preparation for the full-scale musical consisted of a visit to the Birmingham Children’s Theater, where students saw a play and had a question-and-answer session with the cast.

The Drama Club put on three performances of “Peter Pan,” two

for the school community and one evening performance for the parents.

The musical is an annual fifth-grade tradition at GES and is something the community looks forward to each year, Womack says. Past productions include “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “The Jungle Book.”

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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SAVE

SAVE

SAVE

SAVE

TAX*

TAX*

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SAVE

SAVE

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TAX*

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THE

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THE

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THE

(205) 988-5672 Hooverchamber.org

Chris Schmidt, J.D.

Joel Smith

Megan Randolph, CPA

Daniel Corporation First Vice President

Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Second Vice President

Warren Averett CPAs & Advisors Treasurer

Kathleen Spencer

Terry Turner, Esq.

Lori Salter-Schommer

Spencer Consulting Group Secretary

Gentle, Turner & Sexton Legal Counsel

Public Information Officer City of Hoover Liaison

Jason Cobb

Joe Thomas

America’s First Federal Credit Union

Capstone Financial Group 2015 President

The newly elected and installed 2015 Board of Directors of the HOOVER AREA CHAMBER

2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Patty Barron, P.E. Birmingham Water Works

34

Paul Dangel

Rihan Jamil

Reginald Jeter, J.D.

Ira Levine, CCIM

Hyatt Regency – The Wynfrey Hotel

BB&T Bank

Nationwide Mutual Life Insurance

Levine & Associates

Gregg Maercker

Jerome Morgan, Jr.

Stephen Preston

Terry Shea

Bill Powell, MBA

First Commercial Bank

Oncort Professional Services

Brookwood Medical Center

Wrapsody

Chamber Executive Director

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

PRESIDENTS CIRCLE

Jerry Cross

Chairman, Jefferson County EIDA*

Stephen Preston Brookwood Medical Center

Henry King King Acura

Terri Q. Williams

Jason Cobb

Lisa Worley

Dale Benton

AT&T Alabama*

America’s First Federal Credit Union*

Anchor Insurance Agency*

Benton Nissan of Hoover

Gary Wright

Lori D. Moler

Gregg Maercker

David Bradley

Cadence Bank

Joe McGee

Legacy Community Federal Credit Union

Children’s of Alabama*

Leigh Ellen Brummerhoff

Marriott International, Inc.

First Commercial Bank

Dan Mikos

Mikos-Kampakis Insurance*

Health 1 Consulting*

Richard Head RE/MAX Advantage*

John Lyda

Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Mark Garnett

HealthSpring of Alabama, Inc.

Chris Leech

Regions Financial

A. W. Bolt

Ken Leatherwood

Joel Smith

Dominic Buompastore

Bolt Law Office*

Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall

Charlie Conklin

Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Bright House Networks

Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel

Tim Prince

Hoover’s Magazine, Shelby County Reporter

*Designates a Past President of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce

Kathleen Spencer Spencer Consulting Group*

Bill Stoeffhaas

Style Advertising*

Dan Ellis TASC*

Khaled Sakalla President, Virginia College

Congratulations to our own Dale Benton and to all members of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce!

Congratulations to our own John Lyda and the rest of the 2015 Presidents Circle and the entire Board of Trustees

Cadence Bank congratulates our own Gary Wright as a member of the 2015 Presidents Circle and all members of the Board of Directors and the Board of Trustees!

We’re proud of our President & Publisher Tim Prince and congratulate all members of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce!

Congratulations to our own Gregg Maercker as a member of the 2015 Presidents Circle and to the other leaders on the Board of Trustees and Board of Directors.

Congratulations to the 2015 Presidents Circle and the entire Board of Trustees of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce!

Congratulations to our own Ken Leatherwood as a member of The Presidents Circle of the Board of Trustees and to all members of the Hoover Chamber!

Congratulations to our own Mark Garnett on the 2015 Presidents Circle and to the entire Board of Trustees!

Congratulations to Henry King as a member of the 2015 Presidents Circle and all members of the Board of Trustees and Board of Directors!

Congratulations to Brookwood’s Stephen Preston on the 2015 Presidents Circle and to the other members of the Board of Trustees of the Hoover Chamber!

Congratulations to Executive General Manger Joel Smith as Chamber Second Vice President and Presidents Circle Member and to all the 2015 Trustees!

Congratulations to Joe McGee and to other members on the Board of Trustees, as well as to Board of Directors – and to all members of the Hoover Chamber of Commerce!

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

35

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mike Murphy ABC 33/40 TV

Pete Gagliano ADT Security Systems

Carol Adkins

Adkins OnTime Electric

Steve Swofford Alabama Credit Union

Kelvin Johnson Alabama Gas Corp./Alagasco

Timothy C. Lee, M.D., MPH

Ashley Robinett

Rihan Jamil

Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C.

Jack Williams

Linda Cencula Avadian Credit Union

AlaTrust Credit Union

Steve Nix

Jimese Harkley America’s First Federal Credit Union

American Family Care

Felicia Fortune

Randy Johansen

Robert P. (Rob) Fowler

Ken Crow

Patty Barron, P.E.

Leanne Messer

Robin Wilkins

Balch & Bingham LLP

Deborah Stephens

Behavioral Health Systems, Inc.

King Demontluzin

Morris Jackson

Mike Warren

Alabama State Representative

Chateau Vestavia Retirement Community

Patricia Cunningham Fortis Institute

Chick-Fil-A

Cody Burns FOX 6 WBRC

Belk

Birmingham Water Works

Bobby Haynes

Children’s of Alabama

Costco Wholesale

Debbie Hultquist

Terry Turner, Esq.

Fresenius Medical Care

Gentle, Turner & Sexton

Brookdale Place University Park

Chris Schmidt, J.D.

Daniel Corporation

Sandy King Gold’s Gym

American Family Care

36

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Ryan Blackenburg

David Roberson

Tom Kent

Hal Humphrey, P.E.

We’re proud of our President & Publisher Tim Prince and congratulate the rest of the 2015 Presidents Circle Members and the entire Board of Trustees!

Jared Miller

Bud Cason

Earl Davis

Golden Living Center

Alabama Senate Majority Leader, District Sixteen

BBVA Compass Bank

Bud’s Best Cookies

David Likis Financial, LLC

Jabo Waggoner

BB&T Bank

Bryant Bank

Congratulations to our own Charlie Conklin and the other 2015 Presidents Circle Members and the entire Board of Directors and Board of Trustees for 2015!

Congratulations to our Chris Leech and all members on the 2015 Board of Trustees of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce! www.regions.com

Alabama Power Company

Drummond Company

Gresham, Smith and Partners

C B & S Bank

Ricky Brooks

Express Oil/Tire Engineers

Wes Teague

Hargrove Engineers + Constructors

Congratulations to our new Campus President Khaled Sakalla on the 2015 Presidents Circle and the entire Board of Trustees of the Hoover Area Chamber!

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

Neil Thakor Holiday Inn Hoover

Neal Harris

The Home DepotInverness

Mark Hamilton

The Home DepotRiverchase

Teressa Eades

Homewood SuitesRiverchase

Natalia Hawthorne

Hoover Tactical Firearms

Beverly Meadors IberiaBank

Richard Bishop

Amy Strayer

Keith Pennington

Bridget Baughan

ITT Technical Institute

Jason’s Deli

Photo not Available Buddy Sutter

Tony Cooper

P J Kimball

Jefferson Credit Union

Jimmie Hale Mission

La Petite Academy

David W. Cowan, DMD

David Brown

Jose’ Rivera-Crespo

Dr. Jack Schaeffer

Huck McElveen

North Shelby Dental Studio

Schaeffer Eye Centers

Chris Breeding The University of Phoenix

Office Depot

Servpro of Birmingham

Dave Wilson UPS

Outback Steakhouse

Sarah Turner

Signature Homes

Stan Banks

Virginia College Online

Callie Simmons Lakeview Estates Assisted Living

Jim Quick

Dr. Lawrence Lemak

Dwight Burrell

Lemak Sports Medicine

Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln

Medical West

McDonald’s

P. F. Chang’s Restaurant

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Rick Smith

Thomas A. Martin Riverchase Galleria

St. Vincent’s Health System

Andy Davis

Leanne Graham

Khristi Doss Driver Southern Company

Clarence “Brother” Moss

Alain Gallet Terracon

Roberto Rodriguez

Alice Johnson

Trash Taxi

Trinity Medical Center

Mike Chandler

Jamie Lipscomb

Glenn Smith

Charles Waldrep

Alison Lindsay

Ronald Jackson

Kevin Roberts

Russell Pate

Walmart Neighborhood MarketLorna Road

Several years ago, The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors established a new organization, The Board of Trustees. This group is a highly recognized and prestigious group that carries several major benefits. Additional benefits are offered for membership in the exclusive Presidents Circle of the Board of Trustees. For information on membership contact the Chamber office at 988-5672.

Steak ‘N Shake

Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 150

Williams Scotsman

Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 280

Windstream

Waldrep Stewart & Kendrick, LLC

Zaxby’s

Sam’s Club

WIAT-42 News

Allen South

Little Pumpkins Daycare

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

37

The Officers, Directors, and Trustees thank the entire Chamber membership for their support. We pledge to make 2015 the best year ever for the Chamber in continuing support for our members, and to promote high business principles in Hoover and surrounding areas. The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce urges you to support the following businesses that support YOUR Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce:

280 Living - Starnes Publishing 700 Riverchase Apartments A H I Corporate Housing, Inc. AAA Alabama AAATIX, LLC AABCO Rents, Inc. AARP AccuPrint ActionCoach Acton Road Pediatrics, LLC Acton Road Self Storage ADECCO Employment Services Adkins On Time Electric ADP Payroll ADT Security Services Advantage Resources Inc. Advantage Staffing Resourcing AdvaPay Systems, LLC Adventure Travel Aerotek AFLAC Insurance AIG Financial Network Aimee Runnels & Associates AL.com ALA CHOW TYME Grill & Buffet Alabama 4-H Center Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center Alabama Association of Non-Profits Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes Alabama Brick Delivery, Inc. Alabama Central Credit Union Alabama Coalition to End Sexual Exploitation Alabama Credit Union Alabama Forest Owners Association Alabama Gas Corporation Alabama Heart & Vascular Brookwood Alabama Heart & Vascular - Trinity Alabama Outdoors Alabama Power Company Alabama Rental Managers Alabama Republican Executive Committee Alabama Soccer Association

38

Alabama Splash Adventure Alabama State Representative Jack Williams Alabama State Senator Jabo Waggoner Alabama Technology Network Alabama Turf Works Alabama Veterinary/Eye Care Specialists AlaTrust Credit Union Aldridge Gardens Alfa Insurance Company Aliant Bank Ally Risk Services Alvis & Alvis, LLC American Cancer Society American Diabetes Association American Family CareGreystone American Family CareHoover American Family CarePelham American Family Care-The Grove American Family CareVestavia American Financial Management American Heart Association American Legion Post 911 American Lung Association American Osment American Red Cross Mid Alabama Region American Village America’s First Federal Credit Union-Birmingham America’s First Federal Credit Union-Hoover Ameritek Ample Energy, Inc. Anchor Insurance Agency Andy OnCall Angels Hair World Anglin Dental Office-Dr. Michael Anglin Anthony’s Full Service & Express Car Wash Any Reason To Plan APCO Employees Credit Union Apex Roofing & Restoration ARC Realty-Mechelle

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Wilder ArmorSafe Storage, LLC Armstrong Relocation Arrell Internet Services Ascend Web Development Ashley DeRamus Foundation Ashley Furniture Home Store Aspire Physical Recovery Center at Hoover At Home AT&T Alabama Atkins North America, Inc. Attic Plus Storage-Valleydale Auto-Chlor System Avadian Credit UnionColonnade Avadian Credit UnionGreystone Avadian Credit UnionHoover Aveda Institute Birmingham Awards & Engraving Place Back To Wellness Backus Orthodontics Balch & Bingham LLP Ballantrae Golf Club BancorpSouth-280 BancorpSouth-Colonnade BancorpSouth-Hoover Bandura CPA, LLC Banfield, The Pet Hospital Baptist Medical Center Hoover Barber Companies Barfield, Murphy, Shank & Smith, LLC Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon Barry Davis Architects, P.C. Bassett Furniture Battle Law Firm, LLC BB&T Bank - Hoover BB&T Bank - Hwy 150 BB&T Bank-Southside BBVA Compass - Hoover BBVA Compass - Inverness BBVA Compass Riverchase Beacon Insurance Group, Inc. Beers Properties Behavioral Health Systems, Inc.

Belk -Galleria Bellini’s Ristorante & Bar Bent Brook Golf Course Benton Nissan of Hoover Berry Chiropractic, P.C. Bessemer Airport Authority Bessemer Area Chamber of Commerce Better Business Bureau Beyond Network Services Bill Murray & Associates Birchall at Ross Bridge Birmingham Allergy & Asthma Specialists, P.C. Birmingham Barons Birmingham Bowl Birmingham Business Alliance Birmingham Business Journal Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Birmingham Internal Medicine Associates Birmingham Tutoring Club Birmingham Water Works Birmingham Zoo, Inc. Blue Cross and Blue Shield Bluff Park Art Association Bluff Park Baptist Church Bluff Park United Methodist Church Bob’s Power Equipment Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits-Hoover Bolt Law Office Bonefish Grill Brand Striping Brian’s Flooring + DesignMcAdory Brian’s Flooring + DesignValleydale Bridgeworth Financial Bright House Networks, LLC Bromberg & Company, Inc. Brookdale Place University Park Brookwood Medical Center Brothers Recycling Brown Mackie College Brownstone Marketing Solutions Bryant Bank - Highway 150 Bryant Bank - Highway 280 Bud’s Best Cookies

Buffalo Rock Company Buffalo Wild Wings-280 Buffalo Wild Wings-John Hawkins Building Service Company, Inc. Bullet Screening Services Burch Corporation Burke’s Outlet/Bealls Inc Business Electronics Business Resource Group Business Solutions Consultant Business Telephones, Inc. (BTI) C B & S Bank-Doug Baker Blvd Cadence Bank - Highway 119 Cadence Bank - Highway 150 Cahaba Dermatology & Skin Health Center, LLC Cahaba Grand Conference Center Cahaba Valley Computer Services, LLC Cahaba Valley Health Care Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill Camisha Rivers Studio Campbell & Rowell, L.L.P. Candlewood Suites Capstone Financial Group, LLC Cardinal Roofing & Restoration, LLC Carnation Cleaning & Janitorial Service Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC Carrabba’s Italian Grill Carto-Craft Maps, Inc. Cassady & Self Glass Co., Inc. Cater Design & Landscape CDG Engineers & Associates Cedars Lebanese Grill Cellular Sales Verizon Wireless Century 21 Meyer Real Estate CenturyLink Business CertaPro Painters of Hoover Chace Lake Family Dentistry, PC Chace Lake Villas

Champion Cleaners Changing Spaces Moving, Inc. Chapel Park Charter Business Charter Media Chateau Vestavia Retirement Community Chaundra Davis Consulting Cherokee Campground Chicken Salad Chick Chick-Fil-A at Patton Creek Chick-Fil-A Hoover Chick-Fil-A Riverchase Galleria Children’s Harbor Children’s of Alabama Children’s Village, Inc. Child’sPlay Therapy Center Christ Church United Methodist Christensen Financial, Inc. Clark Memorials Clark Properties Classic Home Mortgage, Inc. Cleaning Corporation of America Clear Solutions, Inc. Cliffs at Rocky Ridge Climate Control Systems, Inc. Clint Graphics Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. Coldwell Banker Green & Company Collins Insurance Agency Comedy Club Command Alkon Committee to Elect Pamela Blackmore-Jenkins Congregation Beth Hallel Conour Insurance, Inc. Constable - Gilbert Douglas, Jefferson Co. Cooke, Cameron, Travis & Co., PC Cook’s Pest Control Cooley Insurance, Inc. Cornerstone Media Costco Wholesale Courtyard by Marriott Hoover Courtyard by MarriottBirmingham/Colonnade Covenant Classical School of Southlake Crest Cadillac of Birmingham, Inc. CrimeStoppers of Metro Alabama Cross Construction, LLC Cross Creek Church Crown Trophy 98 CTS, Inc. Cumulus Media, Inc. Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home

Curtis Consultants, LLC Custom Pac & Shipping, Inc. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation D. R. Benefit Consultants Dale Carnegie Training Dale’s Southern Grill Dan Carlisle Agency Allstate Insurance Danberry at Inverness Daniel Corporation Daniel Ross Bridge David S. White Roofing Co., Inc. Davis Likis Financial Days Inn at the Galleria DC Scientific Pest Control DEC Fire & Water Restoration Dedicated Personnel, Inc. Diamond Film & Video DiChiara Dental Office Digitel Disability Rights and Resources Discover ITT, LLC District Judge Jack Lowther Dixie Fish Company DLC Management Corp.

DMJM Harris, Inc. Doleys Clinic/Pain & Rehabilitation Center Down Syndrome Alabama DR Horton America’s Home Builder Drake Homes Drayer Physical Therapy Institute Drs. Deep & Daughtry Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Drummond Company, Inc. Drury Inn & Suites Birmingham Southeast Dustin K. McNutt, CPA, LLC E. A. Renfroe & Company Eagle Strategies LLC / New York Life-Antonio Sankey Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area EconoLodge EDGEMARKETING, Inc. Edmonds Engineering, Inc. EEEI Foundation Egg & I RestaurantGreystone Egg & I Restaurant-Hoover EGS Commercial Real Estate, Inc. Elite Fitness Embassy Suites - Hoover Encore Rehabilitation of Hoover Encore Rehabilitation of Inverness Enterprise Rent-A-Car Estes Warehouse Tires, Inc. Evan Terry Associates P.C.

Excel ENT of Alabama Exceptional Foundation Expedia CruiseShip Centers Express Employment Professionals-Bham West Express Oil Change/Tire Engineers-150 Express Oil Change/Tire Engineers-Hoover Express Oil Change/Tire Engineers-Lorna Extra Space Storage Eyecare Associates - Hoover Farmers Insurance - Danny Hunget Fastsigns Faulkner University Fidelity Bank Fi-Plan Partners, LLC Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Firestone Complete Auto Care First Commercial BankHighway 150 First Commercial BankHoover First Commercial BankInverness First Commercial BankPelham First Federal Mortgage FOCUS on Recovery, Inc. Focus-MD Fortis Institute Foundry Rescue Mission Frank Carnaggio Photography Fred Hughes Insurance Agency, Inc. Frederick Firm Fresenius Medical Care Fried Green Tomatos Restaurant Full Moon BBQ-Highway 280 Full Moon BBQ-Hoover Fultondale Chamber of Commerce Fun Source Rentals Galactic Inc. Galleria Animal Clinic, LLC Galleria Woods Retirement Community Gameday ... Every Day! Gentle, Turner & Sexton Gigi’s Cupcakes Glenwood Autism & Behavioral Health Ctr. Goddard School Golden Living Center Gold’s Gym - Vestavia Gold’s Gym - Colonnade Gold’s Gym - Pelham Gonzalez-Strength & Associates Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. Grace House Ministries Grace Klein Construction,

Inc. GradePower Learning Graffeo Financial Services Grand Bohemian Granger, Thagard & Associates, Inc. Grant & Associates, LLC Great Clips-Hoover Place Great Clips-Shades Crest Station Great Clips-Trace Crossings Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Green Valley Baptist Church Green Valley Drug Company Greene’s Business Machines Gresham, Smith and Partners Greystone Chiropractic Greystone Neuroscience Center Greystone Shell/McPherson Companies Grounds Guys of Hoover Groupon H & R Block Hair Options Hampton Inn & SuitesGalleria Hampton Inn & Suites-Lee Branch Hargrove Engineers + Constructors Hatch Mott MacDonald Haute Couture Boutique Headway Marketing HealthSource of Greystone HealthSpring of Alabama Helen2o: Fluid Communications Hendrick Chevrolet Hendrick Chrysler-DodgeJeep-Ram Herman Miller, Inc. Highland Technical Services, Inc. Highlands Digital Media Highway 280 Paint & Body Shop, Inc. Holiday Inn - Lakeshore Holiday Inn Express - Hwy 119 Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Inverness Holiday Inn Hoover Holy Apostles Episcopal Church Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School Home Depot - Inverness Home Depot - Riverchase HomeTown Lenders Hoover HomeTown Mortgage Services, Inc.

Homewood Chamber of Commerce Homewood SuitesBirmingham Homewood Suites-Inverness SW-Riverchase-Galleria Hoover Arts Alliance Hoover Beautification Board Hoover Church of Christ Hoover City Schools Hoover City Schools Foundation Hoover Country Club Hoover Engineering Dept.

Hoover Fire Department Hoover Firefighters Association Hoover First United Methodist Church Hoover Florist Hoover Glass Services Hoover Health & Wellness Center, Inc. Hoover Helps Hoover High School Hoover Historical Society Hoover Home Team/Avast Realty Hoover Lions Club Hoover Lodge #644 Hoover Met Hoover Metro Kiwanis Club Hoover Police Department Hoover Print Company Hoover Public Library Hoover Recreation Center Hoover Rotary Club Hoover Senior Center Hoover Service Club Hoover Soccer Club Hoover Sun - Starnes Publishing Hoover Tactical Firearms Hoover Title Mart Hoover Toyota, Inc. Hoover Vision Center Hoover, City of Horizon Church Horizons Financial Insurance Group, LLC Hormone Health and Weight Loss House Consultants, Inc. Hunter Street Baptist Church Huntingdon College Adult Degree Comp Program Hyatt Place Hotel - Hoover Hyatt Place Hotel Inverness Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel IberiaBank - Hoover IberiaBank - Pelham IberiaBank - Vestavia Hills iFix and Repair - Riverchase Galleria iHeart Media ImageSouth Greystone

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

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In Care Technologies Independent Rep-Nat’l Companies-Vera Tomano Indian Springs Pediatric Dentistry Insurance Office of America Interior Design by Regina Smith Inverness Dermatology Inverness Landing Apartment Homes IRA Innovations Iron Tribe Fitness-Hwy 150 Issis & Sons Carpet ITT Technical Institute Iz Catering J. Alexander’s Restaurant J. Carter & Company Jaclyn Terry, Attorney at Law, LLC James Companies James H. Corbin, Jr., C.P.A. Jason’s Deli-Brookwood Jason’s Deli-Highway 150 Jason’s Deli-Highway 280 JDA Promo Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens Jefferson County Commissioner David Carrington Jefferson County Constable Larry Allred Jefferson County Economic Dev Authority Jefferson Credit UnionBirmingham Jefferson Credit UnionFultondale Jefferson Credit UnionHueytown Jefferson Credit Union-Ross Bridge Jefferson State Community College Jenni Westhoven, CPA Jesse’s Steaks & Seafood Jet’s Pizza Jim N Nick’s Bar-B-Q Greystone Jim N Nick’s Bar-B-Q Hoover Jimmie Hale Mission Jimmy John’s - Hoover JMA Realty Joelle Salon Johnson & Kennedy, CPA JohnsonKreis Construction Joseph Development Co. Judge Carnella GreeneNorman Junior Achievement of Greater Birmingham Jusuru Karen Miller AgencyAllstate Insurance Kid One Transport System, Inc.

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Kidder Financial Group KinderCare King Acura Kingdom Christian Center Kitchen Magic Krebs Engineering, Inc. Kumon of BirminghamGreystone L. A. Bikini La Petite AcademyBrookwood Medical La Petite Academy-John Hawkins La Petite Academy-Pelham La Petite Academy-Trussville La Petite AcademyValleydale LAH Real Estate Lake Crest Animal Clinic Lake Crest Chevron Lake Crest Presbyterian Church (PCA) Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital Lakeview Estates Assisted Living Land Rover Birmingham Landmark at Magnolia Glen Landscape Associates, Inc. Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. Lawson State Community College La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries-Highway 150 La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries-Highway 280 La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries-Irondale Leader Marketing Solutions, Inc. Lefleur Florist & Gifts Legacy Community Federal Credit Union-Greystone Legacy Community Federal Credit Union-Hoover Legacy Community Federal Credit Union-Meadowbrook LegalMatch - Chas Blackford Lehr Middlebrooks & Vreeland, P.C. LEJ, SR, LLC Lemak Sports Medicine Hoover Lemak Sports Medicine Montclair Letson & Associates, PC Leukemia-Lymphoma Society Levine & Associates Levy Advertising Agency Liberty Mutual Insurance Lifeline Children’s Services Lifting Spirits, LLC Lighting Specialists, Inc. Lila Parks Scholarship Committee Little Caesar’s Pizza

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Living Faith Community Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln Lou Lou’s LLC LovingCare Health Services Lovoy & Associates, LLC Lucas & Associates Magic City Chiropractic Maids Home Services Manpower Marc-1 Car Wash Marriott International, Inc. Mary Kay Cosmetics MassMutual Alabama Math Minds, LLC McDonald’s - Medford Drive McDonald’s-Galleria McDonald’s-Hoover McKay Management Corp McPherson Companies McWane Science Center MedCenter Hoover PC Media Maven, Inc. Medical Weight Loss Medical West Medifast Weight Control Center Melissa E. Wertz Photography Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham Message Point Media MetLife Metlife Auto & Home Meyer, Anderson, & DeLuca LLC MG Squared, Inc. Michael Golden CPA, P.C. Michael R. Williams, CPA Microscope Enhanced, Laser Assisted, Comprehensive Dentistry Microtel Inn & SuitesHoover Mikos/Kampakis Insurance Services Miller Air Conditioning Minuteman Press of Hoover Mitutoyo America Corporation Mobile Attic Moe’s Southwest Grill Catering Momentum Telecom Money Mailer Moonlight on the Mountain Moore Coal Company, Inc. Morningside of Riverchase MortgageBanc/Fairway Independent Mortage Corp Mosquito Authority of Hoover, LLC Mosquito Joe of South Birmingham Mosquito Squad of Greater Birmingham-South Moss Rock Festival Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce

MoveDaddy Greystone Mr. Transmission - Hoover MRM Marketing, Inc. Multicon, Inc. MW/Davis Dumas & Associates, Inc. My Chiropractor-Dr. Jerry Nesseler National Association of School Resource Officers National Bank of Commerce National Computer Forensics Institute National Multiple Sclerosis Society Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company Natter & Fulmer, P.C. NBC-13 WVTM Neel-Schaffer, Inc. Nelson & Company Engineering Nerium-Kristy Liverett New Location Realty-Steve McTyeire New York Life Insurance Billy Joe Watson Newk’s Eatery - Hoover Newk’s Eatery - Inverness NM Construction Group LLC North Shelby Dental Studio North Shelby Family Health North Shelby Inverness Rotary Club North Shelby Library Northwestern MutualDustin Myrick Norton’s Florist Oak Mountain Lodge Odyssey Early SchoolsEmery Drive Odyssey Early SchoolsHeatherbrooke Office Depot #2293-Hoover Office Depot Business Solutions On Tap Sports Cafe-Galleria Oncort Professional Services OnMark Physical Therapy Orange Theory Fitness Orkin, Inc. Out There Creative Outback Steakhouse Hoover Over The Mountain Journal Over the Mountain Miracle League P. F. Chang’s Restaurant Passport, Inc. Pastry Art Bake Shoppe Paul DeMarco Paul Mitchell The School Birmingham Payment Logistics Payroll Management, Inc. Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry Pelham Civic Complex &

Ice Arena Personnel Staffing, Inc. Philip Richards AgencyFarmers Insurance Piggly Wiggly Place at Galleria Planet Fitness-Hoover Planet Fitness-Inverness Plexamedia Practice Partners in Healthcare Precision Homecrafters, LLC Preserve Paints Prestige Floor Care, LLC PrideStaff Prime Management Services Primerica-Stacy Randle Murdoch Principal Mortgage, LLC ProctorU Professional Towing, Inc. Property Damage Experts Protection One Alarm Monitoring Pryor McCormick PT Orthodontics, P.C. Pure Dermatology & Aesthetics PuroClean Property Damage Experts, LLC Q&Aid Research Institute Quality Restorations, Inc. RE/MAX Advantage-Mary Milton RE/MAX AdvantageRichard Head RE/MAX AdvantageRobert Scott RE/MAX Southern HomesPatti Schreiner Real Dental Office Realtor-James Harwell RealtySouth-Kelli Gunnells RealtySouth-Susette ClarkWalker Red Mountain Law Group Rediron New Media Redshift Creative Regional Planning Commission Regions Bank - Greystone Regions Bank - HooverGreen Valley Regions Bank - HooverPatton Chapel Regions Bank - Inverness Center Regions Bank - Inverness Plaza Regions Bank Meadowbrook Regions Bank - Trace Crossings Regions Bank-Galleria/John Hawkins Pkwy Regions Tradition Regus - Highway 280 Renaissance at Galleria

Apartments Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Republic Finance Residence Inn BirminghamHomewood Residence Inn by MarriottHoover Residence Inn by MarriottInverness Rhonda Pyatt Photography Ridout’s Southern Heritage Right at Home Riverchase Baptist Church Riverchase Car Wash Riverchase Community Church Riverchase Country Club Riverchase Galleria Riverchase Galleria Tower Riverchase Improvements Riverchase Landing Apartments Riverchase United Methodist Church Robert J. Sciacca, MD PC Robert Langston & Associates - Nationwide Ins. Robert Trent Jones Golf Course Robert’s Discount Pharmacy Rocket Cycle Rocky Ridge Gracious Retirement Rodan + Fields Dermatologists-Emily Pennington Rooms To Go Ross Bridge Family + Cosmetic Dentistry Roto-Rooter Royal Cup Coffee Royal Furniture Royal Restoration Rudulph Real Estate, Inc. Russo Corporation Rutledge & Yaghmai Rx Catering SafeHouse Sain Associates Saint Mark United Methodist Church Sallus Laboratories, LLC Samaritan Counseling Centers Sam’s Club Sanderson Dental Office Sav-A-Life Shelby, Inc. Sawyer Solutions, LLC Scentsy Schaeffer Eye CenterHoover Schaeffer Eye CenterPelham Schaeffer Eye CenterSouthside Schambeau Dental Care Schlotzsky’s Deli - Inverness SCORE

Scott Richards AgencyNationwide Insurance SDES-Southeastern Diabetes Education Services Seasons 52 Fresh Grill Restaurant Secure Destruction Security Engineers, Inc. Select My Space Seniors Helping Seniors, LLC Sentry Heating, Air & Plumbing Servpro of Birmingham Shades Crest Baptist Church Shades Crest Shell Shades Mountain Baptist Church Shades Mountain Christian School Shades Mountain Independent Church Shades Mountain Park Sharp USA Shay’s Jewelers Shelby Co Economic & Ind Dev Auth Shelby County Commission Shelby County Moms Guide Shelby County Reporter Shelby County Republican Party Shelby Humane Society Signature Homes Smith Closing & Title, LLC Smith Law Office Smith Speaks Snelling Staffing Services Sola Salon - Inverness Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen South Hall Self Storage Centers-280 South Hall Self Storage Centers-Hoover South Hall Self Storage Centers-Hwy 150 South Haven Corporation South Park SDA Church South Shelby Chamber of Commerce South Trace Pediatrics Southeastern Jewelers Southern Company Southern Directory Publishing Southern Museum of Flight SouthFirst Mortgage, Inc. Southlake Financial Group, LLC Sovereign CPA Group, LLC Spencer Consulting Group St. Albans Episcopal Church St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church St. Vincent’s Family Care Hoover St. Vincent’s Family Care Hoover

St. Vincent’s Health System St. Vincent’s Occupational Health Clinic St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Stanley Steemer of North Central AL State Farm Insurance-Bill Myrick Agency State Farm Insurance-Chris Dorris Agency State Farm Insurance-John Henley Agency State Farm InsuranceMandy Pilgreen Agency State Farm Insurance-Robert Kinsey Agency State Farm Insurance-The Chay Watkins Agency State Farm Insurance-TK Smith Agency Station Church Steak ‘N Shake-Hoover Steak ‘N Shake-Inverness Stewart & Stewart, PC Stewart Organization STIX Japanese-SushiChinese Restaurant StormBourne, LLC Strauss Financial Group, Inc. Strickland Companies Style Advertising Sugar & Spice Day Care LLC Summerchase at Riverchase Apartments Sunshine Manor Adult Day Care Supreme Clean, LLC Swimming Pool Services, LLC Switch Audio Video Synergy HomeCare T. Fox Salon Talladega Superspeedway Tameron Honda Tameron Hyundai TASC Taziki’s Greek Fare-Hoover Taziki’s Greek Fare-Lee Branch Tea Party Castle/The TownHouse Tea Shoppe Teklinks Terracon Consultants, Inc. The Abbey at Riverchase The Birmingham News The Church of the Way International The Cliffs at Rocky Ridge Apartments The Horner Apparel Group The Impact Exchange, LLC The Moore Agency-Allstate The Mortgage Company The Neighborhood Brew The Oaks on Parkwood The Pandora Store at the Riverchase Galleria The Park at Galleria

Apartments The RE/MAX Home TeamHarold Collins II The Retreat at Rocky Ridge The Seven Four Group, Inc. The UPS Store - Caldwell Mill The UPS Store - Hoover The Vision Center at Walmart The WellHouse, Inc. The Whole Scoop The Word Unlimited Ministries TherapySouth - Riverchase/ Valleydale Tidmore Flags Till, Hester, Eyer & Brown, P.C..

Tilted Kilt Tim Barron Architect, Inc. tmack productions TMS Computer Services Tom Williams Audi Tom Williams BMW Tom Williams Porsche Tower Loan Town Village Vestavia Hills Trak Shak 280/Greystone Transworld Business Advisors of America Trash Taxi Trinity Medical Center Trisha Lynn Insurance Agency - Farmers Insurance Truitt, Tingle & Paramore, CPA Trustway TurnerBatson Architects Tutor Doctor Tutoring Center tw telecom Twin Peaks Hoover LLC Two Men and a Truck TYCO, LLC Tynes Development UAB School of Business UnionState Bank United Methodist Children’s Home United Way of Central Alabama University of Alabama Athletics University of Montevallo University of Phoenix USAgencies Auto InsuranceGreensprings USAgencies Auto InsurancePelham USS Real Estate V.I.P. Personnel, Inc. Valleydale Church Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato Verizon Wireless-Greystone Verizon Wireless-Hoover Vestavia Bowl Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

Vestavia Title, LLC Villaggio at Ross Bridge Vineyard Brands, Inc. Virginia College Virginia College Online VIVA Medicare Plus Vivian Mora Agency Volkert, Inc. Vulcan Heating & Air Conditioning Service, Inc. Vulcan Park Foundation Vulcan Termite & Pest Control, Inc. Waldrep Stewart & Kendrick, LLC Walgreens - Highway 150 Walgreens - Highway 280 Walgreens - Hoover Walgreens - Pelham Walgreens - Ross Bridge Walgreens - Valleydale Wal-Mart - Lorna Road Wal-Mart- John Hawkins Wal-Mart SuperCenterHighway 280 Walter Schoel Engineering Co., Inc. Walter Schoel Engineering Company, Inc. Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors Wayne’s Environmental Services WBRC Fox 6 Television Welcome Wagon Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC Wells Fargo Bank - Highway 150 Wells Fargo Bank - Hoover Wells Fargo Bank- John Hawkins Wendy’s/R&L Foods Whitehead Orthodontics WIAT 42 News WIAT 42 News Wild Birds Unlimited Williams Scotsman Window Genie of Hoover Windstream - formerly Nuvox Wingate by Wyndham Winn-Dixie #445 Winonah Int’l School of Cosmetology Women’s Exchange Woodforest National BankHoover inside Walmart Wrapsody, Inc. Y Media Works, LLC YMCA - Hoover Family Branch Young Medical Associates Your Choice Senior Care YP Zaxby’s - Caldwell Mill Zaxby’s - Hwy 150 Zaxby’s - Lee Branch Zaxby’s - Valleydale zeekee interactive

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

41

at home

42

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Eclectic Style Owner welcomes friends, family and cooking shows to her updated home WRITTEN BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS PHOTOS BY DAVID MCELROY

S

ituated in the heart of the city close to several schools, Carisbrooke is a community of about 100 homes known for its excellent Halloween trick or treating and extensive Christmas light displays.

It’s also popular for its overall neighborly atmosphere, something Connie Blalock knows well.

“I was working for Alagasco in marketing and helped design and develop cooperative marketing for new residential neighborhoods,” Blalock says. “Carisbrooke was one we were working on.”

The Blalock family was anxious to find

their dream home – one that had room for all four of their children – and Carisbrooke was the perfect fit. Blalock’s husband, Harry, designed the layout of the home focusing on specific needs for the family of four alongside their contractor.

The large bedrooms, high ceilings and spacious closets within the design give this 23-year-old home a classic floor plan that remains current with today’s trends and styles.

“I have made our home a comfortable and colorfully eclectic place to live,” Blalock says.

The commercial art major and avid lover of color uses pops of rich, multidimensional hues that accentuate each room through art (some her own creations) and blown glass.

“I like that my style and collections bring

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The house has plenty of dining space for entertaining guests.

They painted the house’s exterior, changing it from a pinkish hue to a whitebrick finish.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

43

out stories and conversations,” she says.

Her home has also brought out publications like Southern Living. The magazine used her kitchen as a cooking set for demonstration segments and to shoot commercials promoting natural gas cooking.

All of the attention on the Blalock’s home gives constant entertainment to neighbors.

“I am sure our neighbors are never really sure what they will see inside and outside of our home on any given day,” she jokingly says. “We have done safety and training videos here where first responder vehicles were out front for the production. We even had one lady who played the part of a person who had passed out be 44

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Fox News and Wall Street Journal contributor; bestselling author and leading contributor on faith and belief...

E KEYNOTER K A E SP

National Day of Prayer Prayer Breakfast at The American Village

T H U R S D A Y, M A Y 7 T H - 8 : 3 0 A M

Tickets are $10 per person To make a reservation, please email patriotgiftshop@americanvillage.org or call (205) 665-3535 x 1031 The National Day of Prayer Breakfast is cosponsored by the Lucille Ryals Thompson Colonial Chapel Foundation and the American Village Citizenship Trust.

www.americanvillage.org

AMERICAN VILLAGE CITIZENSHIP TRUST

MONTEVALLO, ALABAMA

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The living room includes a range of colors and artwork, creating a welcoming environment for guests. Blalock decorated the house with a variety of artwork and blown glass. The kitchen has been showcased in Southern Living.

carried on a stretcher from my front door.”

During the years, the Blalocks have given their star home a facelift here and there with updates such as new paint for the exterior, changing it from a light, pinkish hue to a classic white-brick finish. They also built a screened-in porch, added plantation shutters in the front and remodeled the kitchen.

The kitchen, one of the Blalock’s favorite areas, got a complete overhaul. Older white tile with hand-painted fruits made way for new black granite countertops and tile backsplashes. Updated appliances also tie together the modern look and feel of the kitchen.

“I love to cook, and we both love to entertain,” she

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

45

says. “I’m happiest with a home full of family and friends sharing in fun, fellowship and some great food.”

Since retiring from Alagasco a little more than a year ago, Blalock continues to open the family home to friends, television and interesting events.

“I do a lot with Chef Clayton Sherrod,” she says. The Discovery Channel even came out to shoot a documentary with Chef Clayton in her kitchen. “That was a lot of fun and interesting to watch,” she adds.

Blalock also opens her home to their Riverchase Methodist Church Sunday School class each year by hosting their annual Christmas party and other faith-filled events. “We recently started a small group study and have a guest chef come to do a cooking demonstration for us before starting our discussion.”

The Blalocks say their home has been everything they wanted.

“It’s been a great, roomy home and great to entertain in. We love Carisbrooke, our home and all the great neighbors we have here,” she says. n

Connie Blalock says her neighborhood is the perfect place to walk her dog Tucker.

www.SouthlakeOrthopaedics.com

Sports SpineMedicine Center

Testing, Surgery & Rehabilitation all conveniently located in your neighborhood.

“Getting you back to your Active Lifestyle” Medplex Medical Building 4517 Southlake Parkway Hoover, Alabama 35244 (205) 985–4111

Michael F. Blum, M.D. C.J. Talbert, M.D. Ekkehard Bonatz, M.D. Michael T. Ellerbusch, M.D.

Brookwood Medical Plaza 513 Brookwood Blvd. – Suite 402 Birmingham, Alabama 35209 (205) 802–6898

William D. Krauss, D.O. William S. Craig, M.D. William D. Sudduth, M.D. George Robert Booker, M.D.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

47

Best Summer Ever

health & beauty

Count on kids’ camps at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

W

e know schools are still in session this spring.

However, we’re already in a summer mindset at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. That’s because we’re eagerly anticipating what we think will be the best summer ever for One Nineteen’s day campers.

Again this year we’re incorporating healthy physical, emotional and intellectual growth opportunities for children ages 6 through 12, disguised as swimming, games, crafts, working out, cooking treats and making new friends. We have some incredible opportunities for teens, too.

Apparently, our best-ever plans are no longer a secret. Parents and kids who experienced One Nineteen’s past summer day camps – or who have heard about them from friends – are already signing up for another fun-filled summer.

Some are enrolling for Camp One Nineteen, the all-summer event that draws ages 6 through 12 for day or week-long activities. Registrants can swim, play, craft and cook for $30 per day as members or $35 per day as non-members. Thanks to all these plans, Camp One Nineteen will again be the summer place where fitness is fun.

Some are signing up for our Thyme To Cook classes, in which ages 6 to 16 are divided by ages to meet on designated weeks in June and July. Each group will prepare

and eat healthy foods and learn where those foods come from. Past favorite recipes included bananas foster, shrimp and grits and homemade chips and salsa, all included in the $195 per week cost.

Our Thyme To Cook chefs not only make friends and have tons of fun in our professional kitchen, but they also develop healthier eating habits while growing their social, science and math skills.

And there’s more in the best-summer making. Athletes ages 11 through 18 are signing up for One Nineteen’s summer Sports Performance Programs, an extension of our year-round emphasis on helping young athletes excel in all sports.

And we haven’t forgotten the younger athletes. We’ll be offering Speed School for youth ages 7 to 11 in June. Although costs vary based on what each athlete selects, every participant will have access to a highly skilled team of college-level coaches who use scientifically based training principles to boost strength, power, speed and agility.

Spots for these popular programs will fill soon. For more information on one or more of our best-summer-ever camps, visit Onenineteen.com. To reserve your camper’s place, call 408-6600.

WRITTEN BY JACQUELINE GARDNER PHOTO BY JON GOERING

Jacqueline Gardner is the director of health and wellness services at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. n April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

49

food & drink

Pop Shop

Enjoy more than gourmet popsicles at this new Hoover eatery WRITTEN BY LAUREN DOWDLE PHOTOS BY JON GOERING

W

hether residents are looking for frosty or sweet treats, they can find that and much more at Urban Pops.

Kamy and Riba Adeli opened the restaurant in the Colonial Promenade on John Hawkins Parkway in January. They serve popsicles, coffee, cupcakes, muffins, brownies, cream puffs, seasonal items, breakfast and lunch – including soup and salads. They plan to add sandwiches to the menu soon.

Urban Pops is a true family business, with the idea coming from their daughter, Sara.

A few years ago while she was in New York, Sara came across a shop that sold a variety of fruit- and milk-based frozen pops. “It just had such a fun atmosphere,” she recalls. “People are attracted to something different.”

50

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

The cucumber chili pop gives customers a hot and cold taste. The strawberry-cheesecake flavor is one of their top creamy flavors.

Customers can enjoy their cucumber salad for lunch or as a snack.

The macarons, meringue-based confections, are a small, sweet snack.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

51

She told her father about the interesting spot and suggested he should open one here. He was a little unsure at first, but Sara told him about the shop’s popularity.

“People really like gourmet pops,” she says. “They can’t go in a grocery story and get a strawberry cheesecake pop.

Plus, you feel like you’re eating something lighter than ice cream.”

Kamy – a Jacksonville State University grad who has lived in the area for the past three decades – has years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He started testing different flavors at home, asking his friends and family to taste the pops and give their feedback. He continued to tweak the recipes until the frozen treats were just right for all ages.

“I think people like them because they grew up having popsicles,” Kamy says. “Even grownups love them – it’s not just kids.”

When he was ready to open Urban Pops, he knew Hoover was the perfect spot.

“Hoover is still growing – there are businesses popping up everywhere,” he says. “People are very friendly.”

The couple runs Urban Follow Urban Pops Pops, and their daughters share on Instagram and Twitter at @ advice and urbanpopsbhm and Facebook. offer help, like managing the company’s social media sites.

“It’s the best thing that could have happened to me,” Kamy says. “I have my wife and daughters close, and we work well with each other.”

In addition to the welcoming family atmosphere, the restaurant also has a style that fits its name – urban.

Artwork showcasing the Birmingham skyline hangs on the wall, and there are modern chairs picked out by Sara.

Kamy also built the wooden tables, giving everything a personal touch.

“It has a different, rustic look to it,” Kamy says. “People come in and say it looks like New York.”

The eatery has both fruity and cream pop flavors, including some that are gluten-free. Their fruity flavors are pink lemonade, lime, balsamic strawberry, raspberry apple, cucumber chili and mixed berry. For creamy options, they have coffee, chocolate, hazelnut, avocado, butterscotch, orange and strawberry cheesecake – a customer favorite.

Their flavors change throughout the year, and they have special ones periodically like key lime pie, cookies and cream and peanut butter. “We’ll keep adding flavors until we see what people like” he says.

If customers have a flavor they want Kamy to create, all they have to do is ask. After several people requested 52

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Owners Riba and Kamy Adeli opened Urban Pops in January

Summer 2015 Coming summer 2015 Camp Indian Springs will offer the premiere summer day camp experience for kids ages 5-13!

Open House April 22 & May 13 Join us for CIS Open House at Indian Springs School to meet our staff and tour our facilities! We would love to answer any questions you may have and help you register your campers for their best summer yet!

Kamy Adeli makes the pops using local, natural ingredients.

WWW.CAMPINDIANSPRINGS119.COM

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

53

a strawberry shortcake pop, he made one for Valentine’s Day, for example. They use fresh, local ingredients for all of the menu items.

Not only does he welcome people’s suggestions, Kamy also invites residents to stop by – even if it’s just to check the place out.

“They can just come and say, ‘Hi,’ to us,” he says. “We’d love to meet them.”

And the feeling is mutual. He had one customer pay for a $1.75 cup of coffee with a $20, and when Kamy tried to give them change, they told him to keep it and “make sure to put it back into the community,” he recalls.

“I’ve been in different parts of Birmingham and Alabama, but the people in Hoover are surprisingly nice,” he says. “They go out of their way to be nice.”

Sara agrees and says she’s excited about having the business here. “We have a really big heart for Birmingham,” Sara says. “We wanted to give the community something different.

Come give us a try.”

While he’s focused on the Hoover store, Kamy says opening other Urban Pops around the state isn’t out of the question. “If things go as planned, I may expand,” he says. “But, it’s a little too early to do that. Quality is the most important thing to me.”

For people who want the pops at their parties, weddings or — Kamy Adeli other events, they can have Urban Pops bring a cart with their chilly treats. They also plan to bring their pops to Pepper Place a few Saturdays.

Urban Pops is located at 2760 John Hawkins Parkway Suite 100. For customers on the go, they have a drive-thru.

Their store hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.

Follow Urban Pops on Instagram and Twitter at @urbanpopsbhm and Facebook. n

“Even grownups love

them – it’s not just kids.”

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce C o m m u n i t y • C o m m e rc e • C o l l a b o r a t i o n

“A Beautiful Lawn Doesn’t Happen By Itself”

Only $21.95 for your first lawn application!

(Up to 5,000 square feet. Call for details.)

54

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

N C T ON

EC ON I Hooverchamber.org

1694 Montgomery Highway, Suite 108, Hoover, AL 35216 | (205) 988-5672 | (205) 988-8383 FAX www.hooverchamber.org | email: bill@hooverchamber.org

Avadian Credit Union to Sponsor April 17 Luncheon Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens to give the “State of the County” address Avadian Credit Union will sponsor the April 16 luncheon this month, and has invited Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens to be our speaker and present the 2015 State of the County Address for Jefferson County.

Commissioner Stephens was recently elected to serve as president of the Jefferson County Commission, as he began his second term in office as commissioner. He grew up just south of Bessemer and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from Samford University.

As President of the commission, he chairs the Administrative, Public Works and Infrastructure Committee; is primary liaison to the Jefferson County Sheriff ’s Office; Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center; Jefferson County Health

Commission President Jimmie Stephens

Department; Regional Planning Commission; and the Metropolitan Planning Commission among others.

Commissioner Stephens is a lifelong resident of Jefferson County, District 3, and has a long line of civic experience, including serving as a Bessemer City Councilor; chairman

of the Bessemer Board of Zoning Adjustments; Bessemer Airport Authority; Commercial Development Authority; and Exit 108 Commercial Development District. He also serves on the Legacy UMCA Board of Directors.

To attend the April 16 Chamber Luncheon for the State of the County Address, please make your reservations no later than Monday, April 13, by calling 988-5672, or emailing lisa@hooverchamber.org.

Networking begins at 11:15 a.m., with the meeting starting sharply at noon. The Luncheon is $20 with reservations in advance, or $22 for walk-ins without reservations.

Cancellations are accepted until the morning of the luncheon, but those that make reservations and do not attend will be invoiced. Location: Hoover Country Club, 3140 Club Drive, Hoover, AL 35226.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine • 55 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Master Your Credit, Not Your Card: How to Understand and Increase Your Credit Score Does the idea of credit make you feel nervous? You’re not alone. CNN Money recently published a survey by the American Psychological Association stating that stress about money affected Bryce Thornton, the health and Hoover Public Library Business Department relationships of threequarters of Americans adversely.

On Monday, April 13 at 7 p.m., Operation HOPE will present “Master Your Credit, Not Your Card” at Hoover Library.

“It’s more than just a three-digit string of numbers. It holds power over your ability to purchase a home, land your dream job, and for those thinking about it, being your own boss,” says Damian J. Carson, Program Manager for Operation HOPE: HOPE Coalition America. “During the April 13 program, I will discuss ten simple things a person can start doing immediately to raise their credit score.”

For more information about “Master Your Credit, Not Your Score,” please call 4447816.

Coffee & Contacts Schedule Second Thursday of each month 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m.

April 9, 2015 - Birmingham Allergy & Asthma

September 10, 2015 - Hampton Inn-Eagle Point

May 14, 2015 - Morningside of Riverchase

October 8, 2015 - Charter Media

June 11, 2015 - Burke’s Outlet July 9, 2015 - Samaritan Counseling Center August 13, 2015 - T. Fox Salon

December 10, 2015 - Available January-December 2016 Available

Luncheon Sponsorships Third Thursday of each month 11:15-Noon March 19, 2015 - Birmingham Barons

April 16, 2015 - Avadian Credit Union May 21, 2015 - Office Depot

Business After Hours Schedule Fourth Thursday of each month 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

March 26, 2015 - Tom William BMW

July 23, 2015 - The Oaks on Parkwood

April 23, 2015 - Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato

August 27, 2015 - Hyatt Place Inverness

May 28, 2015 - Outback Steakhouse

September 24, 2015 - Available October 22, 2015 - Available

June 25, 2015 - Aldridge Gardens

Bryce Thornton is the Business Librarian at Hoover Library. You can reach him at 444-7816 or brycet@bham.lib.al.us and find him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bryce. thornton.142.

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015 Connection Newsletter Hoover Area Chamber

56

November 12, 2015 - Benton Nissan of Hoover

November-December - none held

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Thursday, February 12, 2015 at the new Newk’s Eatery, at 3780 Riverchase Village, Suite 100. Riverchase Village is at the intersection of Lorna Road and Montgomery Highway, across from Mercedes of Hoover. Shown cutting the ribbon is owner Todd Jackson while his wife, Sonya holds the bow. To the left of Mr. Jackson is Marketing Director Paige Gilliland, who set up the event. This Newk’s also caters, and can be reached at (205) 588-8624 or newks.catering@ckjeateries.com. www.newks.com

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Friday, February 20, 2015, at the new Easter Seals of Birmingham Pediatric Facility located at 240 Commerce Parkway, Pelham 35124. Shown cutting the ribbon is Easter Seals of Birmingham Executive Director David Higgins, as Marketing Director Allison Nichols holds the bow. They are joined by several staff members, friends, and Hoover Chamber ambassadors. Hoover City Councilman John Lyda also attended, and is shown at the back-center. For information on this great facility, contact Allison Nichols at (205) 942-6277 or anichols@eastersealsbham.org.

New Members — January & February 2015 ADECCO Employment Services Patricia Williams - 985-3123

Frank Carnaggio Photography Frank Carnaggio, Owner - 907-7777

New Location Realty Steve McTyeire, Broker - 807-5200

Alabama Coalition to End Sexual Exploitation (ALACESE) Melea Stephens, Director - 746-6967

H & R Block Lacey Weber, Marketing - 987-5030

P. F. Chang’s - BOARD OF TRUSTEES Jim Quick, Operating Partner - 967-5040

Great Clips/Seyler Enterprises Dian Seyler - 426-5935

Plan Ahead Events Deb Navez, President - 470-2036

Backus Orthodontics Jeffrey D. Backus, DMD - 987-0040

HealthSouth - Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital Jinnie Lacey, RN - 868-2309

Preserve Paints Geoff Milham - 588-1585

Birmingham Tutoring Club Denis Allen, Owner - 981-7155

Hoover Helps Greg Bishop, Founder - 516-4616

Building Services Company Jennifer Huddleston - 252-5040

Hoover Title Mart John Klein, Owner Operator - 490-6860

D R Benefit Consultants Rhett Callis - 451-6635

Lake Crest Presbyterian Church (PCA) Reverend Thomas Joseph - 982-2807

Down Syndrome Alabama Susan M. Tolle, Executive Director 988-0815

Lucas & Associates Julie Ivy White, Realtor - 796-7843

State Farm InsuranceThe Chay Watkins Agency Chay Watkins, Agent - 824-4663

MVP Training Coach Brooks Barron, Owner - 538-2687

TMS Computer Services Tommy Johnson, President - 358-8097

Mason Music Will Mason -

Thompson Technology Consulting, LLC Jim Thompson, CEO - 979-9952

Momentum Telecom Stan Minner - 978-3406

The Church of the Way International James Mason, Pastor - 41-7866

Alabama Rental Managers Sydney Williams - 824-5008

Drury Inn & Suites Birmingham Southeast Louis Verde, GM - 967-2450 Express Employment ProfessionalsBirmingham West John Clabaugh, Owner - 610-8200

Farmers Insurance - Philip Richards Agency Moonlight on the Mountain Philip Richards, Owner - 823-5400 (entertainment venue) Craig Edmonds, Marketing Director Farmers Insurance - Trisha Lynn Agency 334-399-0150 Trisha Lynn, Owner - 508-0382

Sallus Laboratories, LLC Charles Love, President - 314-4730 Secure Destruction Tim McGee - 453-1488 State Farm Insurance-John Henley Agency John Henley, Agent - 823-1343

The Neighborhood Brew Craig Grossman- 960-7445 TherapySouth at Riverchase/Valleydale Chris Allison, Clinic Director - 874-8623

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine • 57 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Thank You, Board of Trustees

Charlie Conklin Sentry Heating and Air www.sentryheating.com

Sarah Turner Signature Homes www.signatureehomes.net

Robin Wilkes Bryant Bank www.bryantbank.com

The Presidents Circle of the Board of Trustees Jerry Cross, Chairman, Jefferson County EIDA* Terri Q. Williams, AT&T Alabama* Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union* Lisa Worley, Anchor Insurance Agency* Dale Benton, Benton Nissan of Hoover John Lyda, Blue Cross and Blue Shield A.W. Bolt, Bolt Law Office* Ken Leatherwood, Bright House Networks Stephen Preston, Brookwood Medical Center Gary Wright, Cadence Bank Lori D. Moler, Children’s of Alabama* Gregg Maercker, First Commercial Bank David Bradley, Health 1 Consulting* Mark Garnett, HealthSpring of Alabama, Inc. Joel Smith, Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Dominic Buompastore, Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel Henry King, King Acura Joe McGee, Legacy Community Federal Credit Union Leigh Ellen Brummerhoff, Marriott International, Inc. Dan Mikos, Mikos-Kampakis Insurance* Richard Head, RE/MAX Advantage* Chris Leech, Regions Financial Charlie Conklin, Sentry Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Tim Prince, Hoover’s Magazine, Shelby County Reporter Kathleen Spencer, Spencer Consulting Group* Bill Stoeffhaas, Style Advertising* Dan Ellis, TASC* Khaled Sakalla, President, Virginia College *Designates a Past President of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce

The Board of Trustees Mike Murphy, ABC 33/40 Television Pete Gagliano, ADT Security Systems Carol Adkins, Adkins OnTime Electric Steve Swofford, Alabama Credit Union Kelvin Johnson, Alabama Gas Corporation/Alagasco Timothy C. Lee, M.D., MPH, Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C. Ashley Robinett, Alabama Power Company Jabo Waggoner, Alabama Senate Majority Leader, District Sixteen Jack Williams, Alabama State Representative Linda Cencula, Avadian Credit Union Steve Nix, AlaTrust Credit Union Jimese Harkley, America’s First Federal Credit Union Felicia Fortune, American Family Care Randy Johansen, American Family Care Rihan Jamil, BB&T Bank Jared Miller, BBVA Compass Bank Robert P. (Rob) Fowler, Balch & Bingham LLP Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. Ken Crow, Belk Patty Barron, P.E., Birmingham Water Works Leanne Messer, Brookdale Place University Park Robin Wilkins, Bryant Bank Bud Cason, Bud’s Best Cookies Ryan Blackenburg, C B & S Bank King Demontluzin, Chateau Vestavia Retirement Community Morris Jackson, Chick-Fil-A Mike Warren, Children’s of Alabama Bobby Haynes, Costco Wholesale Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation Earl Davis, David Likis Financial, LLC David Roberson, Drummond Company Ricky Brooks, Express Oil/Tire Engineers Patricia Cunningham, Fortis Institute

Cody Burns, FOX 6 WBRC Debbie Hultquist, Fresenius Medical Care Terry Turner, Esq., Gentle, Turner & Sexton Sandy King, Gold’s Gym Tom Kent, Golden Living Center Hal Humphrey, P.E., Gresham, Smith and Partners Wes Teague, Hargrove Engineers + Constructors Neil Thakor, Holiday Inn - Hoover Neal Harris, The Home DepotInverness Mark Hamilton, The Home DepotRiverchase Teressa Eades, Homewood SuitesRiverchase Natalia Hawthorne, Hoover Tactical Firearms Beverly Meadors, IberiaBank Richard Bishop, ITT Technical Institute Amy Strayer, Jason’s Deli Buddy Sutter, Jefferson Credit Union Tony Cooper, Jimmie Hale Mission P J Kimball, La Petite Academy Callie Simmons, Lakeview Estates Assisted Living Dr. Lawrence Lemak, Lemak Sports Medicine Dwight Burrell, Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln Keith Pennington, Medical West Bridget Baughan, McDonald’s David W. Cowan, DMD, North Shelby Dental Studio David Brown, Office Depot Joseí Rivera-Crespo, Outback Steakhouse James Jerome, PNC Bank Jim Quick, P. F. Chang’s Restaurant Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Thomas A. Martin, Riverchase Galleria Andy Davis, St. Vincent’s Health System Leanne Graham, Sam’s Club

Dr. Jack Schaeffer, Schaeffer Eye Centers Huck McElveen, Servpro of Birmingham Sarah Turner, Signature Homes Khristi Doss Driver, Southern Company Clarence “Brother” Moss, Steak -N Shake Alain Gallet, Terracon Roberto Rodriguez, Trash Taxi Alice Johnson, Trinity Medical Center Chris Breeding, The University of Phoenix Dave Wilson, UPS Stan Banks, Virginia College Online Mike Chandler, Walmart Neighborhood Market-Lorna Road Jamie Lipscomb, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 150 Glenn Smith, Walmart SuperCenter, Highway 280 Charles Waldrep, Waldrep Stewart & Kendrick, LLC Alison Lindsay, WIAT-42 News Ronald Jackson, Williams Scotsman Kevin Roberts, Windstream Russell Pate, Zaxby’s

Membership in the Board of Trustees is offered by invitation to members paying a minimum of $1,000 in dues per year. If you are interested in networking with the area’s top business and community leaders, please contact the Chamber at 988-5672.

Firefighter-Paramedic Michael Thorin (left) was recognized at the February Chamber Public Safety Awards Luncheon as the Outstanding Firefighter of the Year by Hoover Fire Chief Chuck Wingate (center), and Firefighter-Paramedic-RN Wanda Durrett was recognized at the Outstanding Paramedic of the Year for 2014 at the luncheon. These two awards were sponsored by TurnerBatson Architects. TurnerBatson has sponsored these awards for some 16 consecutive years.

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held Feb. 3, 2015 at the new State Farm Insurance Agency of Mandy Pilgreen, the Mandy Pilgreen Agency, located at 1960 Braddock Dr. in Hoover, 35226. Shown cutting the ribbon is Mandy Pilgreen, as her mother, Jackie Watts, holds the bow. They were joined by several friends and business associates from the State Farm home office, as well as several Hoover Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. The agency can be reached at (205) 396-5218, or mandy@mandypilgreen.com.

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015 Connection Newsletter Hoover Area Chamber

58

Upcoming Events

March, April & May 2015 MARCH March 24: Noon - Minority Business Council Meeting Brown Bag Luncheon Meeting at Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome.

March 26 5:30-7:00 p.m. Business after Hours at Tom Williams BMW, 1000 Tom Williams Way, Birmingham 35210 (Grants Mill Road Exit 27 off I-459). Contact Jeannie Swan at 541-0000 or jeannie.swan@tomwillimsbmw.com for information.

APRIL April 2: 8:30 a.m. Economic Development Committee Meeting at Chamber Office.

April 9 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Coffee & Contacts at Birmingham Allergy & Asthma Specialists, 3125 Independence Drive, Suite 210, Homewood 35209. Contact Jan Gibson at jan@ birminghamallergy.com or call 9431197. www.birminghamallergy.com

April 15: 4:30 Ambassador Meeting at

Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome!

April 16 Hoover Chamber Luncheon at Hoover Country Club. 11:15 a.m.

Networking, Noon Luncheon.

Please make reservations by Monday, April 13. Those who make reservations requesting a meal be prepared for them, and do not attend will be invoiced, unless canceled prior to the event. $20.00 or $22.00 without reservations.

Lisa@hooverchamber.org April 23 5:30-7:00 p.m. Business after Hours at Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato, 610 Preserve Parkway, Suite 100 Hoover 35226. Contact Brianna Panos at brianna.panos@ gmail.com or call 637-3036. www. vecchiabirmingham.com

April 28: 12:00 Noon - Minority Business Council Meeting Brown Bag Luncheon Meeting at Chamber Office.

Visitors Welcome.

MAY

Chamber Office.

May 14 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Coffee & Contacts at Morningside of Riverchase, 2184 Parkway Lake Drive, Riverchase, Hoover 35244. Call 403-7400 or dkodadek@5sqc. com for information. www. fivestarseniorliving.com.

May 18: 4:30 Ambassador Meeting at Chamber Office. Visitors Welcome!

May 21 Hoover Chamber Luncheon at Hoover Country Club. 11:15 a.m.

Networking, Noon Luncheon.

Please make reservations by Monday, May 18. Those who make reservations requesting a meal be prepared for them, and do not attend will be invoiced, unless canceled prior to the event. $20.00 or $22.00 without reservations.

Lisa@hooverchamber.org

May 26: 12:00 Noon - Minority Business Council Meeting Brown Bag Luncheon Meeting at Chamber Office.

Visitors Welcome.

May 7: 8:30 a.m. Economic Development Committee Meeting at

Mission Statement Amended January 1998. The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce promotes economic growth of business through a strong support system which provides business and community partnerships.

Use this logo to place in your advertising for higher name recognition. This logo can be emailed to members for use in advertising, on business cards, and on letterhead or signs.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine • 59 Hoover Area Chamber Connection Newsletter

Kim Jones was recognized by Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis as the 2014 Telecommunicator of the Year for her outstanding work in helping the Police Department and Fire Department in her duties, and in specific instances outlined by Chief Derzis.

This award was sponsored by TurnerBatson Architects.

At the February Chamber Public Safety Awards Luncheon, The Police Officer of the Year was recognized, sponsored by Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall, with Officer James Bullock recognized as the 2014 Police Officer of the Year, and Sergeant Mike Lucas, Detective Wayne Weems, and Detective Kimberly Quattlebaum all recognized as finalists for their outstanding work during the year by Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis. Shown is Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis (left) with Officer James Bullock.

Joseph Ritchey, right, was recognized at the February Public Safety Awards Luncheon by Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis for his outstanding work as the Detention Officer of the Year for 2014 in his work at the Hoover City Jail. This award is sponsored

by Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall.

Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors

Joe Thomas, Capstone Financial Group, 2015 President

Patty Barron, Birmingham Water Works

Chris Schmidt, J.D., Daniel Corporation, First Vice President

Paul Dangel Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel

Joel Smith, Hoover Hendrick Auto Mall, Second Vice President

Rihan Jamil, BB&T Bank

Megan Randolph, CPA, Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors, Treasurer

Kathleen Spencer, Spencer Consulting Group, Secretary

Reginald Jeter, Gregg Maercker, J.D. First Nationwide Commercial Mutual Insurance Bank

Jerome Morgan, Jr., Oncort Services

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015 Connection Newsletter Hoover Area Chamber

60

Jason Cobb, America’s First Federal Credit Union, Immediate Past President

Ira Levine, CCIM, Levine & Associates

Lori Schommer, City of Hoover, City Liaison

Stephen Preston, Brookwood Medical Center

Terry Turner, Esq. Gentle, Turner & Sexton, Legal Counsel

Terry Shea, Wrapsody

SPOTTED Mardi Gras Ball

The Hoover Senior Center held its mid-day Mardi Gras Ball on Feb. 13. (Photos contributed)

Shirley Graham and Odessa Usher

Naomi Elliot

Judith Randolph, Jean O’Kelly and Dan Phifer

Ron and Jan Christman

Juanita and Don Fournier

Margaret Mulholland and Virginia Adams

Nina Isaminger and Gail Mathis

Stan and Suzanne Challiss

Linda Bates and Miriam Roberts

Beverly Sublette and Frances Fansler

Larry Enzweiler and Rose Marie Bunn April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

61

SPOTTED

Hearts and Harmony Gala The Hoover Service Club held its third annual Hearts and Harmony Gala on Feb. 13 at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham – The Wynfrey Hotel. (Photos by Laurel Cousins)

John and Peg Mankowich

Sue and John Knopf

David and Allison Bradley

Dave Broderick and Ann Yates

Jim and Lori Schommer

62

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Carl and Jennifer West

Alan and Kristin Mathis

Vicki Yeilding and Miss Alabama Jamie Nutter

Jamie and Abram Hinson

Lee and Debra Taylor

Sara Perry and Bobbie Guyton

Tina and Shad Wilks

John and Beth Lyda

Chris Heinisch and Bill Henry

Barbara Henry and Krista Heinisch April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

63

SPOTTED

James Bond Gala The Regional Oncology Active Research (ROAR) organization honored Dr. Larry Lemak at the Club during the annual James Bond Gala on Jan. 31. (Photos contributed)

Yvonne Albaugh, Ranae Breen, Anne Bishop, Darlene Wilson, Sherry Tatom and Michelle Scholtz

Carla and Bruce Irwin with Deborah Wiggins

Dr. Tim Cool, Dr. Larry Lemak, Sen. Jabo Waggoner and Dr. Robert Kim

Dr. Larry Lemak with Carolyn and Mayor Gary Ivey

64

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Sen. Jabo and Marilyn Waggoner with Dr. Larry Lemak

Heidi Linquist, Susie Patterson and Audrey Lindquist

Dr. Jim Cool, Dr. Larry Lemak and Dr. Chris Dobelbower

Sela Bischoff and Martha Thompson

Yvonne Albaugh and Mike Ross

Dr. Anne Bishop and Anne Hartline

Carolyn and Bernie Higginbotham

Kaye Moore and Kim Hull

Joey Moore, Kaye Moore and Dr. Larry Lemak

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

65

SPOTTED

Propagator Wine Reception During the Propagator Wine Reception at Aldridge Gardens on Feb. 12, members mingled and met mixed-media artist Meredith Keith. (Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Tynette Lynch and Billy Pennington

Kay Aldridge and Janet Abernathy

66

Rip Weaver and Richard Ryel

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Kathryn Keith, Deb Elliott and Meredith Keith

Patricia Ryel and Ken Jackson

Newk’s Grand Opening Newk’s Eatery in Riverchase Village held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 12.

(Photos by Lauren Dowdle) Chandra Davis and Paige Gilliland

Bill Powell, Pam Koehler, Troy Perry and Ira Levine

Bruce McMellon and Joe Thomas

Rhonda and Brian Ryatt, Pam Koehler and Peter Northcott

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

67

SPOTTED

Golfer Signing Day Family, friends and members of the Greystone community gathered at the Greystone Founders Clubhouse to celebrate local golfer John Hayden’s signing with the UAB Blazers golf team on Feb. 4.

(Photos by Molly Davidson and contributed)

Todd Thompson and Brian Speikman

Calvin Bolling with Marianthi and Gavin Hayden

Olivia and Darin Cissle with Ashlyn Halbrooks

Holt Rast, John Hayden and Steve Muncher

68

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Calvin Bolling and Charlie Tickle

Katia Aguilar with Christy and Remy Thompson and Todd and Robert Makofski

Grace and Renae Friedman with Gavin Hayden

Katherine Collier, Hayden Dooley, Johnson Dooley and Preston Fights

Murray and Suzanne Hasinoff

Danette Akins and Julie Collier

Gavin, John and Marianthi Hayden

Marianthi Hayden and Iris O’Brien

John Hayden and Calvin Bolling

Jody and Greg Burrow with Joe Flemming April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

69

SPOTTED

Business After Hours Business After Hours was Feb. 26 at the Residence Inn by Marriott on John Hawkins Parkway.

(Photos by Lauren Dowdle)

Ernie Jonseof, Jennifer McEuen and Rhonda Ryatt

Cory Shoultz and Joe Thomas

70

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Janet Hartmann and Jennifer McEuen

Scott Shinbaum, Bill Grubbs and Steve Afloc

Benji Sawyer and Harry Horner

Hoover Snow Residents enjoyed a snow day on Feb. 25 by building snowmen, throwing snowballs and other fun activities.

(Photos contributed) Emily Newsome

Emma, Kevin and C.J. Hawkins

Busy Hands Framing & Gifts

Emily Sheppard

John and Jarrod Kennington April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

71

SPOTTED

Alabama baseball home opener Fans packed the Hoover Met to watch the Alabama Crimson Tide sweep Maryland Eastern Shore in their baseball home opener Feb. 13-15. (Photos by Molly Davidson)

Gail and Ray Brown

Steve Baker and Sandie Troncale

Olivia, Kallie and Tammy Moon with Elijah Henderson

Terry and John-Michael Robbins

72

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Sharon and Guin Renfroe

Andy, David and Dylan Lewis

Joe Klingbeil and Cameron Tew

Jason and Lynette Coker with Brian and Carla Wilhite and Tracy McMurray

Annette, Morgan and Mike Bullard

Jake Levins and Sarah Segars

LeAnna Cooper and Ray Polk

Leah and Ted Taylor

Jean and Jack Hubbard April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

73

SPOTTED

Alabama baseball home opener Fans packed the Hoover Met to watch the Alabama Crimson Tide sweep Maryland Eastern Shore in their baseball home opener Feb. 13-15. (Photos by Molly Davidson)

Evan Franklin and Katherine Baker

Joe and Mary Alice Chandler with Preston Williams

Jesse Kelley and Ben Hendrix

Mark Cordle with Pat and Jason Seward

74

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Beth Norlander and Linda Thompson

Bryant Lagle and Houston Poole

Jordan Boston and Ashley Gleghorn

Ben Aaron and Morgan Poyler

Cindy Guilbeau and Vickie Hagg

Kaitlyn Lowery and Jacob Morgan

Sadie and Stoney Daniel

Kate Cutshall and J.B. Costello

Sandie and Bing Blewitt April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

75

Jeremy Wright Wright Homes

© 2015 Alabama Power Company

Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one.

For Wright Homes, it’s helping them build beautifully designed, highly efficient homes.

With a little help from Alabama Power to envision the most efficient homes for their customers, Wright Homes is proving that beauty and function can go hand in hand.

That’s power to imagine. That’s Power to Alabama.

T

Watch the Wright Homes story at AlabamaPowerRealTalk.com.

April 1 Camp Read S’more: Music Camp •Hoover Public Library•

Spend spring break with us.

Join us for a special activity, followed by a serving of everyone’s favorite camp treat. Stories and music will be provided for preschoolkindergarten. Registration is no longer required. Just show up on the day of the program. The program will be April 1 at 9:30 and 11 a.m., and April 2 (Science Camp) at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

Aron Kallay •Hoover Public Library•

Grammy-nominated performer Aron Kallay is a modern renaissance man: a performer, educator, innovator, festival director

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash

CALENDAR

and more.

Fanfare magazine described him as “a multiple threat: a great pianist, brainy tech wizard and visionary promoter of a new musical practice.”

Kallay has performed throughout the United States and abroad and is a fixture on the Los Angeles newmusic scene. He is a faculty member at the University of Southern California and Chapman University. Kallay will perform at the Hoover Public Library at 7:30 p.m.

Gentle Yoga •Aldridge Gardens•

Star Rosser’s lifestyle and yoga classes and lifestyle are about taking time to connect with the body and giving self-care, selfacceptance and self-love.

Her body positive classes welcome all shapes and sizes, and provide a workout to the body, mind and soul.

Reconnect with your body and b r e a t h , w h i l e surrounded by nature.

C l a s s e s will be on We d n e s d a y mornings April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 and will continue through June (no class June 3). Classes are dropin, weather permitting.

The cost is

$15 per class. Bring a yoga mat, a thick towel, a positive attitude and an open heart. Classes will be on the patio near Roots Garden and Gift Shop from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. For more information, contact Star Rosser at 821-2918 or starletrosser@yahoo.com.

April 4 Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash •Veterans Park•

The Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at Veterans Park in Hoover. Read more about the event starting on page 12.

April 10 Corey Nolen Concert •Moonlight on the Mountain•

Corey Nolen will play with a full band at Moonlight on the Mountain. Nashville artist Austin Manuel will open the show. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. For more information on Nolen and his music, visit Coreynolenmusic.com.

Cirque Montage •Hoover Public Library•

This program will take place April 10 and 11 in the Library Theatre at 8 p.m.

April 11 Walk for Autism and 5K •Veterans Park•

The Walk for Autism raises money for the Autism Society of Alabama and brings together families

in the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) community.

The event includes a 5K race starting at 7:30 a.m., with registration at 7 a.m., and a noncompetitive 2-mile Awareness Walk at 9:30 a.m. (check-in and registration begins at 8:30 a.m.). Registration before the event is $30, and dayof registration is $35. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. For more information or to register, go to Walkforautismal.com.

April 12 Global Cuisine @ the Plaza: Sweden •Hoover Public Library•

Cofee-ol-ogy Café presents free programs on food and coffee from around the world. We explore Swedish cuisine in April.

Complimentary samples will be provided. The program will take place at 2:30 p.m.

April 13 Trivia Night at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s •Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in Hoover•

Round up your friends and compete for great prizes at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, located at 5519 Grove Boulevard in Hoover. Trivia will start at 7 p.m.

April 14 Hoover Has Talent •Hoover Public Library•

Are you a singer, dancer or juggler? Showcase your talent on the Library Theatre stage. Call 444-7833 to reserve your spot. The show starts at 6:30 p.m.

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

77

April 16 What Stands in a Storm: (April 2011 Tornado Outbreak)

CALENDAR Mohammad Dolatabadi

Leadership Shelby County Golf Tournament

•Hoover Public Library•

Join us for a reception honoring April’s featured artist Mohammad Dolatabadi at the Friends Art Gallery at 5:30 p.m.

•Hoover Public Library•

Join author Kim Cross at 6 p.m. to reflect on this historic 2011 event. For more information, call 444-7800.

April 17 Children’s Book Festival •Hoover Public Library•

April 25 Write Club presents Joe Samuel Starnes: Author of cancer. For more information Leadership Shelby County “Red Dirt” or to register, go to Golf Tournament benefiting

The Children’s Book Festival PurpleStride.org/Birmingham. youth scholarships will be held will take place all day, April at Inverness Country Club. To 17 and 18, in the theatre. The register, call 205-542-9039 April 19 program is for all ages.

Gene Fambrough or email Calgunn@bellsouth. net.

•Hoover Public Library•

April 18 PurpleStride Birmingham 2015

UAB Music Professor Gene April 21 Fambrough will perform works for solo percussion at 2:30 Recycled Crafts •Veterans Park• p.m. in the Library Plaza. The •Hoover Public Library• PurpleStride Birmingham event is free to attend.

Celebrate Earth Day by 2015 presented by UAB upcycling. Registration begins Medicine is a family-friendly April 7 for children in grades April 20 event from 7 to 11 a.m. at Leadership Shelby 1-3. The program will be at Veterans Park that unites 4:30 p.m.

County Golf the community while raising Tournament awareness and support for April 23 •Inverness Country Club• the fight against pancreatic

Art Reception – YOUR

COMMUNITY.

YOUR

•Hoover Public Library•

Author Joe Samuel Starnes will discuss his latest book, “Red Dirt: A Tennis Novel,” along with his previous two books “The Calling” and “Fall Line,” at 10:30 a.m. at the Library Plaza. A book signing will follow. The event is free.

Storybook Brunch •Hoover Public Library•

Join Anna Beth for a new once-a-month, action-packed Saturday story time at 10:30 a.m. A breakfast snack will be served. The program is for all ages. n

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• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Marketplace Hoover’s Magazine • 205.669.3131

37 Auto Sales Financing Available!

205-280-1177 6545 US Highway 31, Verbena, AL 35091 www.37autosales.com ACCEPTANCE LOAN COMPANY Personal Loans! Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans! Come

by Acceptance Loan and apply for a loan today.

224 Cahaba Valley Rd Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-5821 CDL-A Truck Drivers See Your Family More, Drive Local Greenville! Top Shelf Benefits! 1+yr exp. required www.innovativedrivers.com 888-206-3752 Rogers Cartage Company is looking for Dry-Bulk Lime and Cement Drivers for our Terminal in Alabaster, AL. Call Brian 800-507-8848 www.tankstar.com Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record. 800-338-2717” Adneyhous Kennels Sanctuary Boarding for Pets!

205-669-1985 donnaadney@aol.com adneyhauskennels.com Advantage Electric is Growing Again! Looking for Journeyman or Helper willing to Learn. Call 205876-4269 JOBS IN ALABAMA!!

AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment,

screening & training services. Visit www.aidt. edu/jobs for latest jobs & training!

Alabama Insurance Agency Has a Business Opportunity for Insurance Agents. Turn Key Operation. Contact us through the website, www. alinsagency.com or phone Allen Vest at 205-303-2055 VENDORS NEEDED! Alabama Pick N’ Trade, LLC dba Dixieland Tradin’ Post under new ownership.

33985 Hwy 25, Harpersville, AL 35078 For info, call 205672-2022.

All American Asphalt Complete Paving and Seal Coating Service • Commercial and Residential.

No job too big or too small, too near or too far.

Quality work at reasonable prices. Free estimates. No obligations. Call now for spring discount. Licensed and insured. Statewide Service Since 1969 (205)767-1585 $10 OFF ANY SERVICE! American Holmes Heating & Air, LLC 205-479-9148.AL#14098. www.americanholmeshvac. com Landscape Install/ Maintenance Foreman for Andy’s Landscape Service.

Exp req’d. No weekends.

Apply in person: 3351 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills.

205-824-0371 Clanton Area!!

Automation Personnel Services - Responsibilities Include: Inspection of automotive parts • Load and unload parts • Detail oriented • Able to lift 50

classifieds

HooversMagazine.com

lbs regularly. Requirements: HS Diploma or GED. Applications accepted TuTh, 8am-11am. Interested Candidates may walk into our office to apply. Inside JCI. 2541 7th St S, Clanton, AL 35045. (205)280-0002, EOE B & M Shelby Pickers Indoor/ Outdoor Flea Market and Kountry Store has NEW HOURS. Tue/Wed 12-5pm, Thu/Fri/ Sat 8am-5pm.

4814 Hwy.47, Shelby 205-461-8725 FUEL TRUCK DRIVER for Utility ContractorClass B w/ HazmatApply@ 276 Snow Dr, Bham, AL 35209 205-942-1095 EOE 1 (one) brand new Queen Mattress and Box Spring for $195.00...Call 334­-655­-1946 for more info.

Financing Available BAMA CONCRETE PRODUCTS 205-664-3500 BEST WESTERN Now Hiring PT Breakfast Area Attendant Call: 205-9081305 or Apply in Person: 100 Bishop Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 Bibb Medical Center in Centreville, AL offers a new, independent living facility for seniors.

Congregate Housing @ Cahaba Trace. All-inclusive price. Numerous amenities.

Private pay. Must be 62+ years and capable of living independently. For info, please call Carrie Williams at 205.926.3286.

Bibb Medical Center Nursing Home Openings: CNA & LPN All shifts: PT & FT positions

available. Contact Human Resources at : bmchr@ bibbmedicalcenter.com Apply On-line at bibbmedicalcenter.com COME RUN WITH THE BIG DOGS Big M-Transportation $500 Orientation Pay. $1500 Sign On Bonus.

Personal Dispatcher 24/7.

2015 Equipment Arriving.

Driver Friendly Company.

Great Home Time. Lease Purchase Program.

Up to $0.42/mile in 6 months. Contact Jacob at: 877-553-2448 www.bigmtransport.com Journeymen Electricians, $24 per hour plus insurance. Helpers $9.60 to $19.20 per hour depending on experience. Greater Birmingham area. Call 205849-5522 for details.

Piano Tuning / Repair, Refinishing, Moving & Storage Trained by The School for the Blind. Buddy Gray Music. 205-822-0482 or 800-593-2462 CDL Skills And Test Training, LLC. Day & Evening Classes. Hoover/ Pelham Area. 205-253-5960 SERVICE TECHNICIAN with HVAC exp. Energetic, outgoing, hardworking, career oriented person to be part of team. Min 3 yrs exp. w/ EPA cert. Negotiable Salary between $15 to $30 hourly. Call 205-755-2209 or apply at 816 7th Street.

N., Clanton AUTO BODY REPAIR TECH 5+ yrs. exp., frame repair exp., welding exp.

Commission based on exp.

Up to 2 yrs. Vacation after specified service time. Call 334-313-3179 Class A CDL Drivers needed for Birmingham Coca-Cola and Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Companies. Driving experience is required.

Apply in person at: 4600 East Lake Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35217 Columbiana Health and Rehabilitation, LLC CNA Class -Starting SOON !!!! Apply in person: 22969 Hwy 25. Columbiana, AL 35051 FIREWOOD-OAK or HICKORY Pick up - only 5 cents per pound. Commercial and Residential delivery also available. Columbiana Wood Products, 21421 Hwy 25, Columbiana (205) 671-5202 Comfort Care Hospice • Volunteers needed to be present with someone on their journey. (877)2310321. comfortcarehospice. com Residential Electricians North Shelby Co (280 Area) Must have 2 yrs basic residential electrical exp. $10-$18/hr based on exp.

To apply, contact Core Focus Personnel at 205-475-7120 Dawson Landscape Group. Custom Outdoor lighting, Firepits, irrigation, weed control packages. dawsonlandscapegroup. com. 205-532-9793 DCH Health System.

Caring. For Life. RN Sign-on Bonus! For information and to apply online visit www. dchsystem.com

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

79

TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing. 800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com” Now Hiring for ALL Positions. LPN’s in Bham area. LPN’s and PCA in Fayette area. LPN positions also available in North Port, Mauvoo and Admsville.

800-844-0195.

Montevallo Dr.’s Office seeking Full-Time LPN. Great benefits. Experience Required. Fax resume to 205-985-5584.

Help Wanted: Part Time Office Help For Afternoons.

Full Time Labor Workers needed with clean DL Call (205)678-2411 For More Information.

Dunn Building Company is looking for a Shop Assistant for their Fabrication Shop in Calera.

The candidate must be a certified welder and be able to read blueprints. To apply visit: dunnbuildingcompany. com and download an application from the Careers section. They can be faxed or emailed to Brett Clark at 205510-0301 or bclark@ dunnbuildingcompany.com EOE M/F/Vet/Disabled Dunn Building Company has Immediate Openings for projects in Trussville and Childersburg. Form carpenters, earth moving equipment operators, metal sheeters, field engineers, laborers & superintendents.

Min. 1 year exp. and ability to pass drug test. To apply visit: dunnbuildingcompany. com. NO PHONE CALLS!!!

EOE Welder Training Coming Soon!

Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com EvaBank more loans & fewer excuses!

NMLS#414640 www.EvaBank.com.

Member FDIC

80

$3000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area.

Must have class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience. Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.

shea.parker@gentiva.com Visit gentiva.com/careers AA/EOE/M/F/D/V encouraged to apply.

Evergreen Transport, LLC has an immediate opening in the Maintenance Department at its Calera Terminal for a night shift parts room clerk to maintain inventory level in parts room and issue parts upon request. Must have good computer skills.

If interested, please call Shane Jones @ 205-6683316 or Chuck Talbot @ 1-800-525-5144.

Looking for Full or Part Time Counter Help for Cleaners 280 location. Greystone Area. (205)807-4646.

Job FairImmediate Openings Shelby County! Warehouse, GeneralLabor; Plant Labor –bilingual (Spanish/English); Sheet MetalTechnician.

Temp-to-hire & temporaryjobs! Min. 1 yr. recentexperience.

Dependable transportation & great attitude! Mar. 26.10 AM – 2 PM Bring resume. ExpressBham.com Wrap Team Leader/ Out-Patient Therapist.

Supervise Wrap team.

Coordinate weekly staffing with Shelby DHR. Provide individual/family counseling. LGSW/LCSW/ ALC/LPC with supervisory experience. Fax 205-5102626 or email hrm@gway. org.

I believe I am defined by the care I give.

Home healthcare allows you to see one patient at a time. When you become a part of home healthcare, you become a part of your patients’ lives.

Now Hiring Registered Nurses for Centreville/ Brent. Contact Shea Parker 1.866.GENTIVA or 770-372-1109

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

Recipes. Products.

Company Store. Tours. So much more! GoldenFlake. com ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnlineAuctions. com. 205-326-0833.

Granger, Thagard & Assoc.

Jack F. Granger #873

Seeking a Summer Job? Greystone Country Club Pool NOW HIRING. Lifeguards $8 hr, Cooks $10 hr, Bartenders/ Servers $6 hr+tips, Kitchen Supervisor $12 hr. Apply in person: 4100 Greystone Dr. or email aquatics@ greystonecc.com Gypsum Express LTD. Class A CDL Drivers needed! Bridgeport, AL Terminal Opening Soon!

Top pay and benefits, plus bonuses! Call Melissa @1866-317-6556 ext. 3 IT’S REFUND SEASON NOBODY GETS MORE OF YOUR MONEY BACK THAN H&R BLOCK IN CHELSEA...

GUARANTEED. CALL TODAY (205) 678-3007 . Get your BILLIONS back America!

HARDEE’S Now Hiring Store & Asst Managers, & Shift Leaders. Email resume to hardees2007@bellsouth. net or apply in person on Valleydale Rd LPN’S, RN’S, CNA’S Full & Part time, 2nd & 3rd Shift.

Apply in person: Hatley Health Care, 300 Medical Ctr. Dr., Clanton, AL 35045 Healtcare Certification.

Visit Healthcareergroup. com or call 800-897-1773 for more info. No college required.

Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall Seeking Polished Sales Professionals...

Unlimited Earnings, Medical/Dental, 401k /Paid Vacation. Hoovercareers@ hendrickauto.com Let us take Grocery Shopping OFF your To Do List!

KATS Grocery Delivery 205-923-6110 iKareihelp@gmail.com Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com Others buy Gold, We buy Jewelry!

205-251-3381 Downtown Birmingham www.levysfinejewelry.com Lil Angels Learning Center Ages 3 wks to 12yrs Meals and Trips in One Low Price! 200 Ridge Drive, Pelham. 205-663-1852 NEED A JOB? Lyons HR has jobs.

Various positions available.

Apply at: 490 Wildwood Circle N., Ste. 150, Birmingham, AL 35209 FT Drivers Needed. Must be willing to work days, nights or weekends. Wages begin at $10/hr. www.

MacsDelivers.com 866217-1928 or email amy@ macsdelivers.com MACS Courier Service House Cleaners Wanted 25-35 Hrs a week no nights or wknds Car, D.L & insurance req Located in Pelham Call for appt 3581800 www.maidpro.com/ birmingham Christian Mission Agency in Wilsonville Seeking Executive Administrator.

Excellent organizer, proficient in Excel & Quickbooks. Supervisory experience helpful. Salary negotiable. Send resume: info@makewaypartners.org Christian Mission Agency headquartered in Wilsonville seeking data-

entry person. Experience: proven record with Excel & details. Annual salary $1822K. Send resume: info@ makewaypartners.org Service Technician • Top Pay, Benefits & Commission! Apply in person: Mainline Heating & Air 400 Hillwood Park S. Alabaster (205) 664-4751 Class A CDL Drivers for Mar-Jac Poultry. 2 yrs exp & clean MVR required.

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance. Paid vacation & 401k. HOME NIGHTS. Call Andrew at 205-8417315 or apply at 1421 Robinwood Circle, 35217 MedCenter Hoover Urgent Care • Family Medicine. Mon-Sat 9am7pm. Sun 1pm-7pm (205) 822-1150.1575 Montgomery Hwy, Hoover Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-389-4530.

For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657 NatrualNailz by Tara Specialize in natural nail care. 10% OFF for first time client when you mention this ad! 624 Montgomery Hwy, Ste 9, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. 745-6591 • Schedulicity.com Immediate Opening for PT/FT Employee for Medical Office in Alabaster.

Applicant must be willing to learn new skills and live in vicinity. Email resume to personal4@charter.net or fax to 205-664-9689.

Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately 3 Yrs Min Driving History With Dump Trailer Experience *$1000 Retention Bonus *Local Hauling *Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC. 251.470.0355

Noble LLC of Scottsboro, AL is looking for company drivers & owner/ops – both flatbed & van. We have paid vacation, holiday bonus pay, safety bonus, & BC/BS is available. We have a family atmosphere with newer equipment.

We like to have 2 years of experience & acceptable safety record - If less, call us.noblellctrucking.com Call 256-574-0066 Production / Manufacturing Vance, Alabama Starting pay: $12.00 – $14.50 /hr.

• Have 2 years+ Production/ Manufacturing exp.

• Have Recently Lived in Alabama at least 2 years.

• Have A High School Diploma or GED. • Are at least 18 years old.

Complete your application on line at www.naonsite. com Manufacturing/Assembly positions available in Calera area. Full time hours, all shifts available. Call today 205-267-3910 Const Foreman Trainee Labor Intensive position at tobacco free company. Must pass DOT physical, drug & background check. Clean driving & workrecord, reliable transportation & telephone required. Call 205-668-2626 OTR Class A Driver in Montgomery, AL. • 3 years experience • $.40-.50 per mile • Paid weekly • BCBS Insurance • Home Weekends • EZ & prepass • Safety bonus Call: (334) 288-8106 CDL Drivers Needed Birmingham Area Ready Mix USA seeking concrete mixer drivers.

Please contact Donald Sparks at 205-986-4845.

Rock Products.

Specializing in Dolomotic Lime, Dolomitic filler, Dolomotic dust and aggregates. Sylacauga,

AL 35151. Hours MonFri, 7-4:30. Some Saturdays. (256)249-9545 ateammining.com Established Teams needed to run CA. Must have 2 yrs exp & clean driving record. Sign on bonus, 401k. Medical & life ins. Stop pay. If you qualify, call us! RRR Transporation 800-472-4714 Salvation Army Bi-Weekly Auction • 1401 FL Shuttlesworth Dr, Bham.

Used electronics, furniture, equipment, bric-a-brac. Fee $4-$5. Public welcome!

Call for details: (205)2528151 Pfaff 18.8 GrandQuilter with Quilt Artist & Grace Frame; can be 5’ or 10’ long. $8000 obo.

Bernina 750QE Sewing Machine w/ Embroidery Unit. Like new. $4000.

Call 205-669-6120 x24 or 205-369-0015.

SERVERS NEEDED Premier golf club in North Shelby County seeking motivated individuals for full and part time server positions. Must be available to work some nights and weekends. $10 - 12 per hour. Immediate openings.

Interested candidates please reply to shoal@ bellsouth.net.

Smith Roofing Metal Roof Specialists. All roofs & repairs. No job too small.

35 years exp.

All work guaranteed.

256-391-7144, 205-777-8069 Order Selectors Food Dist. Center in Pelham Al. Day Shift: Mon-Fri. 40+ hours/week.

10:00 AM until finished (varies).$10.50-$14.00/ hour. Benefits: medical, vision, dental, vacation & 401k. Requirements: •Reading & math skills •Lift 60 lbs. repetitively.

•Work in +90 Temperature •Work in -10 Temperature •Walking majority of day.

Apply 10:30AM-5:00PM Southeastern Food

201 Parker Drive Pelham, Alabama 35124 205-685-4551 Data Entry Position M-F, 8-5. Insurance, vacation, great benefits.

Southern Haulers in Calera Fax resume to Tonya at 205-668-4012.

PLUMBERS NEEDED Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com Electricians Needed Birmingham & Tuscaloosa Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com IMMEDIATE POSITIONS!!!!!

Need 5 motivated workers to replace 5 lazy ones!

Loaders, assistant manager, customer service positions, sales reps. Need valid DL. No experience necessary.

Long hours, but very competitive pay. Call Drew (205)490-1003 or (404)723-1322 CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham Call Stephen (205)663-2822 NOW HIRING RN/LPN/ CNA New Pediatric practice in Chelsea Great hours Excellent benefits, Fax Resume with cover letter to: 205-678-0864 Need extra money?

We need weekend merchandisers! Apply at: supremebeverage.com Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, a local based company in Pelham.

Must be willing to learn & work hard. Go to: supremeelectric-al.com.

Print empl app under Contact Us and mail to: Supreme Electric, 231 Commerce Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-4539327.

TaylorMade Transportation CDL drivers for flatbed regional

division! BCBS insurance after 30 days. To apply call 334-366-2269 or email jsmith@taylormadeinc.com The Bumper Company 906 1st Ave, Bham. We sell and install painted bumpers and perform repairs, often for less than your deductible! Call Today 205-868-3763 Golden Moon Philadelphia Casino Trip 3-9-15. Pickups in Hoover & Exit 100. I20/459 (The Iron Skillet) $35 includes $25 freeplay + $10 food voucher. Call Louise Jones 205-663-3060 LJones7067@aol.com Are you happy with your Child’s Grades?

FREE ASSESSMENT! FREE Sessions!

The Tutoring Center 205-987-9577 www.hoover.tutoring center.com Stable Hand Position.

P/T, No. Shelby Cty. To apply, call 205-991-9720 or 205-531-1355 EFP, INC NOW HIRING Local Haul Truck Drivers 3 yrs exp & CDL required.

Full time/Part time/ Weekends. For application or more info call Nicole Johns 334-687-6000 X 18 ELECTRICIAN Commercial Service: Automatic Doors, pd. hol./vac. APPLY @ UNIVERSAL DOOR 205 967 3414. Doorjob14@gmail. com The UPS Store. 703 Logan Road, Across from High School. 205-755-6400.

Mention our ad & get: 25% OFF Shredding; 29¢ Color Copies; 5¢ Black & White MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land. Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit.

3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.com

OTR Drivers Wanted 24 yrs or older Hazmat pref but not req. Full benefit pkg avail Pneumatic Tank Equip Dry Bulk Hauling. Sign on bonus $500. Home every other weekend. Apply online: vernonmilling.com 800753-1993 Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website www.capstonedental assisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

Villa Maria Apartments Affordable Housing for Ages 62 & above or Mobility Impaired • Income Based Rent • Gated Community 205-836-7839 205-833-0532 Call today for an application and/or appt.

Pest Control/Termite Salesperson and Pest Technician.

Experience helpful but not required. Company provides work vehicle and training. BCBS available after 90 days. Pelham location. Email resume to facsmith@charter.net.

TANK & DUMP DRIVERS. Walpole is looking for local and regional class A company CDL drivers with a minimum of two years driving experience and a clean driving record.

Our package includes: 401k, paid training, safety bonuses, paid vacations, professional uniforms, uniform cleaning service, boot program & more!

Walpole. EOE/DFWP Call Valerie at (800) 7495552 or apply online www.walpoleinc.com.

Whiteline Express Ltd. is looking for OTR drivers out of Alabama. Apply online at www.whitelineexpress.com WINDOW CLEANING SERVICES Store Front * ResidentialWknd & Evening Apptmts Licensed * Insured Call John 205-242-2638

April 2015 | Hoover’s Magazine •

81

why I love Hoover

‘I love Hoover because it is such a nourishing and supportive community.’

A

Top 12 finalist on NBC’s singing show “The Voice,” Jessie Pitts says the experience has been a whirlwind of a dream. After moving to Hoover when she was 11 years old, Pitts sang in her schools’ choirs, first at Berry Middle School and later at Spain Park High School. Pitts, 19, now lives in Nashville where she is pursing her music career.

Q: Why did you decide to audition for “The Voice”?

A: I have actually auditioned twice now for “The Voice.” The first year, I got a call back, but I did not pass the next round of auditions. I thought for a while that the door had closed for this particular opportunity. However, when audition time came around the next year, my best friend begged me to go audition with her, and I found myself waiting in line with 10,000 other singers the next Saturday in Nashville.

Q: How did it feel when the judges turned their chairs during your blind audition?

A: It felt unreal when I saw that Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton turned their chairs for me. I’m pretty sure I had an out-of-body experience watching the whole thing. It was such a relief in the moment that my journey on the show would continue.

Q: How has your life changed since 82

• Hoover’s Magazine | April 2015

being on the show?

A: It has changed in so many ways. I have random people recognize me in public, which is definitely something new for me, and I am still getting used to it. Also, it has just changed my future. Only one year ago, I was sitting in a classroom studying to get my music business degree, and now I’m living it. I feel blessed to have “The Voice” kick start my career, and I want to keep the momentum going.

Q: What’s next for you and your career?

A: Well, I am living in Nashville now – writing a lot. And I am in the process of looking for the right agent/ managers. I plan on releasing my first professional album by this time next year.

Q: Why do you love Hoover?

A: I love Hoover because it is such a nourishing and supportive community. It’s constantly growing and improving, but it remains to

honor those who live here.

Q: What is something not many people know about you?

A: I am actually a huge nerd. I love “Lord of the Rings,” and I often play video games in my spare time. I love anything Si-fi and imaginary. I’ve always had quite the imagination.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

A: I love cooking. I love trying out new healthy recipes. I try to eat all organic, so it’s always fun trying out new things.

Q: Who is your role model, and why?

A: My mom is my role model, and I don’t think I tell her enough. She has such a giving and serving heart, and I hope that one day, I can be a great mother and wife like she is.

My mother and father have always encouraged me to chase after my dreams. I would not have been on “The Voice” without them. n

April 24-26, 2015

Linn Park, downtown Birmingham, Alabama

fti

#MCACBham

www.magiccityart.com MCAC Featured Artist & Juror presented by the Jennifer Harwell Commemorative Gift

Titanium City of Birmingham Platinum Kinetic Communications Gold Joe Piper, Inc. Birmingham Mountain Radio Lincoln Luxury Uncovered Tour Silver Al.com | The Birmingham News Birmingham Magazine Royal Cup Coffee Bronze Alabama Power BlueCross and BlueShield of Alabama Gale Force Productions HealthSouth Corporation Jennifer Harwell Commemorative Gift Miller Communications, Inc. Publix Super Markets Charities

Steel Alabama Baby & Child Magazine Alabama State Council on the Arts & the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency BBVA Compass BJCC B-Metro Bell Media Birmingham Business Journal Birmingham Coca Cola Bottling Company CityVision – The Visitor’s Channel Hoover’s Magazine Over the Mountain Journal Regions Bank Robins & Morton Shelby Living Special Occasions WBHM Public Radio 90.3fm Weld for Birmingham Yarbrough Festival Food Services

Ramiro Gomez, No Splash (after David Hockney's A Bigger Splash, 1967), 2013. Acrylic on canvas. 96 x 96 inches. Collection of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

Image courtesy of the artist and Charlie James Gallery, Los Angeles. Photo credit Osceola Refetoff.