Enjoy Hoover Podcast

About Enjoy Hoover Podcast

About Hoover Hoover is a city more than 50 years old with more than 90,000 residents, top ranked schools both academically and athletically, and dining, entertainment, and shopping throughout its neighborhoods. The city is growing and getting better every day with “big city” dining and entertainment options, yet with a welcoming small town feel for visitors and residents to ENJOY! Dining 200+ delicious restaurants and these annual food events: Hoover Restaurant Week Hoover International Restaurant Week Taste of Hoover Hoover has food for any taste. Entertainment Hoover is an outdoor and indoor “playground” for children and adults alike. Throughout the city there are parks, green spaces, sports facilities, river landings, and beautiful nature trails for walking, running, or biking; world-class shopping and entertainment; and lots of opportunities to keep children entertained. Hoover boasts of a comedy club, a jazz club, a brewery, award winning golf courses, several arcades, numerous sports bars, and a burgeoning entertainment district. Hoover is a growing city with a thriving economy, caring people, great schools, amazing dining, and fun entertainment. These characteristics are all served up with plenty of gracious Southern hospitality. About Enjoy Hoover Enjoy Hoover is the result of a vision of David Cohen, owner of The Whole Scoop Ice Cream Shop (https://thewholescoopicecream.com/) and founder of the Hoover Restaurant Alliance (https://www.facebook.com/HooverRestaurants). He works with two local residents to make the website and bi-monthly magazine come to life: Matthew Allen, owner and publisher of Bham Family magazine (http://www.bhamfamily.com/), and Mitzi Eaker, owner of Mitzi Jane Media (https://www.mitzijanemedia.com/). The website and coming publication (July/August 2022) is a project by three residents who love Hoover and want to see their city thrive and support our local business community and restaurant owners. Enjoy Hoover exists to highlight all the great dining and entertainment that Hoover has to offer, and to show off our city to everyone who lives here and who visits. David, Matthew, and Mitzi hope you will take the time to Enjoy Hoover! Hoover…Where You Want to Be! https://www.enjoyhoover.com/ (https://www.enjoyhoover.com/) https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/ (https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/)

Publisher

BG Podcast Network

Category

arts · kids & family · news

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

29 Nov 2023

Latest episode

7 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Oct 2025

   Bash on the Bluff: From Idea to Tradition | Krimson Revis

   What happens when a simple Facebook post turns into a community-wide fall festival? On this episode of Enjoy Hoover, we chat with Krimson Revis, the driving force behind Bash on the Bluff. From its humble beginnings to becoming a beloved annual event, Krimson shares how a group of moms, teachers, and even a dentist came together to create something magical for Bluff Park. With hayrides, pumpkin patches, live music, and more, this free festival is all about connection, creativity, and community. Tune in to hear the inspiring story behind the event and what’s in store for this year’s celebration! Visit us at enjoyhoover.com (https://enjoyhoover.com/) See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

2. 

   19 Sept 2025

   Fall Into Hoover: Art, Action & Autumn Vibes | Mitzi Eaker: The Voice Behind Hoover’s Business Boom

   What do inflatable sports games, eco-art, and a strawberry cake have in common? They’re all part of Hoover’s vibrant fall scene! In this episode, we spotlight upcoming community events—from the Head Over Teal race to the Moss Rock Festival—and sit down with Mitzi Eaker of the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce to explore how local businesses are thriving. Whether you're chasing art, nature, or new flavors, Hoover’s got something for everyone this season. Visit us at enjoyhoover.com (https://enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Enjoy Hoover Podcast 02:42 Community Engagement and Local Events 04:11 The Role of Enjoy Hoover Magazine 06:51 Business Development in Hoover 10:35 Opportunities for Small Businesses 12:53 Chamber of Commerce Resources 16:12 Connecting with the Community See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

3. 

   18 Jul 2025

   Katie Collins: The Heart of Education in Hoover

   Discover the inspiring journey of Katie Collins, Alabama's 2025 Teacher of the Year, as she shares her passion for education, the challenges of modern classrooms, and the transformative power of teaching. From her humble beginnings to becoming a voice for educators nationwide, Katie's story highlights the importance of unity, independence, and resilience in shaping young minds. Plus, get the scoop on Hoover's vibrant community events, from Restaurant Week to the Ross Bridge 8K. Whether you're an educator, parent, or community enthusiast, this episode celebrates the heart of Hoover and the people who make it thrive. Visit us at enjoyhoover.com (https://enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hoover and Katie Collins 02:45 Celebrating Hoover Restaurant Week 05:56 Katie Collins: Alabama's Teacher of the Year 09:11 The Journey to Teacher of the Year 11:50 The Impact of Teachers on Students 15:09 Promoting Unity and ESL in Education 17:58 Child Independence and Modern Parenting 20:44 The Let Grow Experience 24:01 Balancing Independence and Support in Parenting 26:48 Katie's Favorite Activities in Hoover See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

4. 

   2 May 2025

   Celebrating Hoover’s Community Spirit with Kim Cripps of Enjoy Hoover Magazine

   Join the Enjoy Hoover Podcast as host Melissa Carter chats with Kim Cripps, editor of Enjoy Hoover Magazine. Discover Kim's inspiring move to Hoover, her dedication to supporting local businesses, and the magazine's role in celebrating community events and achievements. This episode covers the excellence of Hoover schools, plans for the magazine’s future, and exciting local happenings like the Iron Chef competition. Plus, learn about Hoover’s connection to Abby Stockard, the 2025 Miss America. Don’t miss this engaging conversation celebrating everything the Enjoy Hoover Podcast stands for—community, success, and vibrancy in Hoover! Visit us at enjoyhoover.com (https://enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Enjoy Hoover Podcast 04:21 Meet Kim Cripps: Editor of Enjoy Hoover Magazine 08:10 Supporting Local Businesses in Hoover 09:00 Experiences with Hoover Schools 11:19 Highlighting Community Achievements 13:17 Getting Featured in Enjoy Hoover 14:38 Future Plans for Enjoy Hoover Magazine 16:34 Exciting Events: Iron Chef Competition 20:49 Healthcare in Hoover: UAB Medical West 21:15 Abby Stockard: Miss America 2025 23:53 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

5. 

   28 Mar 2025

   Hoover High Basketball: A Community Triumph with Coaches Scott Ware and Krystle Johnson

   Melissa Carter dives into Hoover High basketball's championship wins with Coaches Scott Ware and Krystle Johnson, highlighting dedication and community support. Plus, discover Hoover’s can’t-miss events like The Dill Pickers, Celebrate Hoover Day, and Derby & Dining. A perfect blend of sports triumphs and local fun awaits in this episode! Visit us at enjoyhoover.com (https://enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Hoover High Basketball Triumphs 03:04 Community Engagement and Support 06:06 The Commitment Behind the Success 09:12 The Role of Parents and Community 12:06 Coaching Philosophy and Advice 15:11 What Makes Hoover Special 17:47 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

6. 

   28 Feb 2025

   Springing Forward: Mayor Brocato on Hoover's Growth, Safety, and Community Spirit

   Host Melissa Carter speaks with Mayor Frank Brocato about the vibrant community of Hoover, Alabama. They discuss upcoming spring events, the city's economic growth, the importance of public safety, and the thriving local business scene. Mayor Brocato highlights various community initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents, including parks, recreational facilities, and support for local entrepreneurs. Visit us at enjoyhoover.com (https://enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Spring Festivities and Community Events 04:06 Economic Growth and Development in Hoover 11:59 Public Safety and Community Well-being 18:01 Local Entrepreneurs and Business Innovations 24:04 Community Engagement and Quality of Life See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

7. 

   16 Aug 2024

   Enjoy Hoover: Infrastructure Updates, Golf Tournaments, College Programs & More!

   Melissa carter dives into the latest Hoover, Alabama local news and events. Stay updated with the latest infrastructure projects enhancing our city, and get the scoop on the upcoming golf tournament that everyone is talking about. Explore the exciting programs at our community college, and learn about a thriving local woodworking business. Don't miss out on the upcoming events at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, from Mathnasium tutoring sessions to diverse fitness classes. Plus, we highlight a must-see art show that showcases local talent. Tune in for personal stories, community insights, and a celebration of local pride. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to the area, this episode is packed with everything you love about Hoover. Welcome y’all to enjoy Hoover! enjoyhoover.com (https://www.enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and News 02:22 Education at Jefferson State Community College 03:06 Exciting Events at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex 04:05 Mathnasium: Transforming Math Learning 05:11 Bluff Park Art Show: Celebrating Creativity 05:44 Conclusion See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

8. 

   9 Aug 2024

   Enjoy Hoover:

   The Enjoy Hoover podcast dives into the heart of Hoover, Alabama, spotlighting local events, businesses, and news. In this episode: Discover the sweetest scoop on local ice cream spots that’ll have you dreaming of your next dessert adventure. From doorstep to hospital, learn how patient transportation services are changing lives in the heart of Hoover. Get a glimpse of future developments at the Hoover City Council meetings. Explore the inspiring expansion of Faith Presbyterian Church and its impact on our community. See how Mathnasium is transforming the way our kids learn math. Learn about the Megan Montgomery Foundation and its initiatives to make a difference in our community. Reach new heights at the Hoover Heights climbing facility, the ultimate spot for adventure enthusiasts. Tune in for personal stories, community insights, and a celebration of local pride. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to the area, this episode is packed with everything you love about Hoover. Welcome y’all to enjoy Hoover! enjoyhoover.com (https://www.enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Exploring Hoover's Local Ice Cream Spots 02:07 Education Opportunities at Jefferson State Community College 03:47 Transforming Math Education with Mathnasium 04:54 Preventing Domestic Violence with the Megan Montgomery Foundation 05:06 Climbing Fun at Hoover Heights 05:36 Stay Updated with the Enjoy Hoover Podcast See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

9. 

   2 Aug 2024

   Enjoy Hoover: School Prep, Business Coaching, and Summer Events

   Welcome to the Enjoy Hoover Podcast with Melissa Carter! In this episode, we dive into the exciting wrap-up of summer in Hoover. Join us as we chat with Walter Womack, principal of Simmons Middle School, about his journey and dedication to education. Discover free 30-minute business coaching sessions offered by Brad Koch, CEO of 4 Sight Coaching, at the Hoover Area Chamber. Learn about the "Breathe" women’s event at Shades Mountain Baptist Church, and get a taste of Hoover's newest culinary addition, Boston Fish Supreme. Plus, don't miss out on details about this weekend's 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament at the Finley Center and a serene escape at Inverness Nature Park. Tune in for all this and more! Be sure to subscribe and share your thoughts with us. Welcome y’all to enjoy Hoover! enjoyhoover.com (https://www.enjoyhoover.com/) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:37 Free Coaching Sessions for Small Businesses 02:59 Community Events and Connections 03:25 New Seafood Restaurant in Hoover 05:10 Upcoming Events in Hoover 06:19 Conclusion See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

10. 

    8 Jul 2024

    Enjoy Hoover July

    Calendar of events Summer is in full swing! From indoor sports to farmers markets, Hoover offers many ways to have fun in the sun and to beat the heat. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights around town. July 1-27: Hoover Restaurant Week Explore local eateries offering deals and special menus during the annual Hoover Restaurant Week celebration (this year, it’s an entire month of food fun!). Find the latest information on participating restaurants at hooverrestaurantweek.com, and follow Hoover Restaurant Week on Instagram and Facebook. July 6: First Saturday Cruise In at Hoover Tactical Fire Arms Hosted by the Dixie Vintage Antique Automobile Club, the cruise in features antique and vintage cars in the Hoover Tactical Fire Arms parking lot on Highway 31. Talk with owners, listen to oldies music and sip complimentary coffee. July 9: Great British Bake-Off Teen Edition at Hoover Public Library from 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Calling all teen bakers! Show off your baking skills in this fun competition inspired by the hit TV show. Participants will be provided with all necessary ingredients and equipment. The event will conclude with judges tasting and awarding prizes to the top bakers. Register at hooverlibrary.org/events. July 12-18: The Hartford Nationals The Hartford Nationals is the largest and longest-standing national sports championship event for athletes with a physical, visual, and/or intellectual disability.  More than 400 athletes with disabilities and coaches are expected to participate, and the event includes competitions, clinics, education, and social opportunities. Events will take place around Hoover at the Hoover Met, the Finley Center, Spain Park High School, and other locations. Details can be found at moveunitedsport.org. July 15: Sushi Class at Brock's Gap Brewery from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Learn the art of sushi making in a relaxed brewery setting. This hands-on class will teach you how to prepare and roll sushi, and you'll get to enjoy your creations with a refreshing drink from the brewery. All supplies are included. Register at sushiclass.com. July 21: Ice Cream Eating Contest Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with an ice cream eating contest benefitting local nonprofit Hoover Helps. All ages can participate, and winners receive free ice cream for a year and a trophy. Register at The Whole Scoop Ice Cream Shop, located at the Village at Brock’s Gap, anytime before July 21. July 27-28: Indoor Pickleball Tournament at the Hoover Met Get ready for an exciting weekend of pickleball, one of America’s fastest growing sports! Men's and women's doubles will play Saturday, July 27, and mixed doubles will play Sunday, July 28. The tournament will follow a round-robin format followed by medal-round playoffs. Register at hoovermetcomplex.com. Hoover Restaurant Week returns – for a whole month! As though we needed another reason to dine out, Hoover restaurants are giving us 27 good ones. From July 1-27, there are a series of events taking place that are designed to showcase the city’s culinary scene, culminating with Hoover Restaurant Week from July 19-27. David Cohen, owner of The Whole Scoop and chairman of the Hoover Restaurant Alliance, said Hoover Restaurant Week began during the pandemic to promote our local restaurants that were struggling. It started as a ‘Curbside Edition,’ but quickly turned into a whole lot more.” This year, around 40 local restaurants are expected to participate. The most up to date list of participants can be found online at HooverRestaurantWeek.com. With an impressive selection of more than 200 restaurants around town, Hoover offers a diverse range of options when it comes to dining out. “It’s a great opportunity to try new restaurants,” Cohen says. “We think it's a great time to try new foods and new cuisines, we all need to get out of our comfort zone and try a new BBQ joint, Mexican restaurant or new date night spot.” The month-long culinary celebration has many events for residents and visitors alike. The Hoover Fire Station Show Down It’s not uncommon for a fire house to have a great chef, as preparing nightly meals is part of daily life at the station. On July 1-14, Hoover firefighters will go head-to-head to see which local firehouse officially has the best cook. The Bartender Challenge On July 15 and 16, the East and West sides of Hoover will host bartending competitions, showcasing the skills and artistry of local mixologists. The pinnacle of the challenge, the Bartender Challenge Championship, will take place on July 18 at Merk’s Tavern and Kitchen, located at the Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel. The bartender with the most flair and creativity will be awarded the 2024 championship title. May the best bartender win! A News-Worthy Kick-Off Mark your calendars for July 19 as Fox 6 brings the Hoover Restaurant Week Kick-Off to Bluff Park Community Park. Join the live morning broadcast with Jeh-Jeh Pruitt to meet esteemed chefs and passionate restaurant owners, gain insight into their culinary inspirations and hear the stories behind their creations. A Week of Special Menus The peak of Hoover Restaurant Week is the annual week-long celebration from July 19-27 when participating restaurants offer curated menus that highlight their culinary expertise and innovative flavors. Discover which local eateries are taking part in this year’s HRW at HooverRestaurantWeek.com, where you can find a comprehensive guide to the week, including unique menus and exciting specials. National Ice Cream Day This year, National Ice Cream Day falls on July 21, right in the middle of Hoover Restaurant Week! Hoover has several great stops along their own “ice cream trail,” including Magic Milkshakes and More, Kilwin’s, Bluff Park Ice Cream Shoppe, La Sabrosita, and more. The Whole Scoop invites you to join its annual ice cream eating competition. With various age categories, this event benefits Hoover Helps and brings the community together to compete for a trophy and a year of free ice cream. Standing for a good cause The lemonade stand: a classic summer ritual upheld by smiling neighborhood kids, something that has not yet been lost through the years. Whether it is for extra pocket money or a good cause, children have been sitting behind plastic tables with a pitcher of lemonade and a jar of cash for decades. On Wednesday, June 5, Luke Dettling, age 10, and Ian Mitchell, age 9, set up their own citrus table outside their neighborhood pool to raise money for Luke’s church, Faith Presbyterian. At Faith Presbyterian, their version of Vacation Bible School is known as Wonderlab, an art and science camp where kids can paint, learn and play. This year, Wonderlab is raising money for Sacred Road Ministries, a 10-person team of representatives from the church that will be venturing to a Native American reservation in Warm Springs, Oregon. Luke and Ian baked cookies for the occasion and sat in the heat with Luke’s mom, Tally Dettling, wearing their blue Wonderlab t-shirts after a day at camp. Their table also was stocked with chips, water, Rice Krispies, Cheez-Its, and, of course, lemonade. This was Ian’s first time at Wonderlab camp, and Luke said it was nice to have a friend with him this year. The pair met in first grade and have continued to be friends since. “We both like making art the most, especially drawing,” said Ian, referring to Wonderlab camp. “I like science too, but I know everything about science already.” The funds raised at their lemonade stand will go to the mission trip team traveling to Warm Springs, Oregon. Warm Springs is home to Confederated Tribes, which, according to their website, are separate tribes that operate under one form of tribal government. The website also states that the government of Warm Springs secures the health and prosperity of the tribes and creates a community that affords every tribe member the opportunity to gain good health, self-sufficiency, pride and self-esteem. Members of the Faith Presbyterian mission team will fund the purchase of a van to help residents on the reservation with transportation, participate in construction work and host a kid’s camp for over 200 local children. This camp will provide a safe place for children to play, sing, raft, learn, swim and hear about Jesus. Luke and Ian raised $50 at their lemonade stand, which contributed to the more than $2,000 donated throughout Wonderlab camp. Microgreen Farming If you are looking for healthy (and delicious) ways to improve your diet, My Greens microfarm may have just what you need. Emily Lawrence grows fresh and organic greens in her Hoover home and sells them to those looking to improve their diets and lifestyles at farmers markets and on Etsy. “I’ve come across a few people who have health issues and are looking to improve their diets but are unsure where to start,” said Lawrence. “I have people come to the market that are recovering from breast cancer, and I tell them which microgreens to eat and how to incorporate them into their diet. It’s just to help people feel better, more energetic, and just healthier overall.” Microgreens are young vegetable seedlings, or baby plants, that are incredibly nutritious. They are packed with nutrients that hold up to 10-100 times higher concentrations of vigorous nutrients than fully matured plants and possibly reduce the risk of developing many diseases. Lawrence herself has noticed a change in her health since she began growing and consuming microgreens in 2022 and has said she has much more energy, goes on walks every day, and her skin has thrived. Health is the reason she started the business in the first place. “My boyfriend had a heart attack in 2022 at age 50,” said Lawrence. “He was looking for ways to eat healthier and found out about microgreens, and so we started growing them just for us. We grew so many that we thought we should begin selling, and it kind of took off from there.” Lawrence says a great way to incorporate microgreens into your diet is to put them on dishes you enjoy. She says cilantro microgreens are great on tacos, pizza or really anything if you enjoy cilantro. Lawrence’s favorite salad to make with her microgreens is mixed greens with radish, broccoli, bull’s blood beet, red cabbage, chickpeas, arugula, cucumbers, tomatoes, sunflower seeds and her homemade dressing. As her business continues to grow, Lawrence hopes to eventually move her greens from her daughter’s old nursery room to a warehouse. Though she is looking forward to expanding her business, her main goal all along has been to help people. If you are interested in buying from My Greens or would like to know more, you can reach out to mygreens1517@gmail.com or (205)-907-1478. INTERVIEW WITH LAUREN SISLER See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

11. 

    3 Jun 2024

    Enjoy Hoover June

    Calendar of events School is out and summer is in full swing. The SEC Baseball Tournament just wrapped up, setting an attendance record with more than 180,000 fans and, amazingly, not a single drop of rain fell during the 17 games at the Hoover Met. The local events calendar slows down a bit in the summer, but there is plenty to do around Hoover in June! June 1: First Saturday Cruise In at Hoover Tactical Fire Arms Hosted by the Dixie Vintage Antique Automobile Club, the cruise in features antique and vintage cars in the Hoover Tactical Fire Arms parking lot on Highway 31. Talk with owners, listen to oldies music and sip complimentary coffee. June 4-5: Koo Koo at the Hoover Public Library Theatre Experience the dancing, comedy and singing of this popular high-energy duo. For times, go to events.hooverlibrary.org. June 11-12: Roger Day at Hoover Public Library Theatre Sing, dance, jump and dream big with award-winning children's musician – and local elementary school favorite  - Roger Day. For times, go to events.hooverlibrary.org. June 14: Peach Day Farmer's Market at Ross Bridge from 4-8 p.m. Enjoy a special peach-themed treat at Ross Bridge's farmer's market on Peach Day. Shop local vendors, including farm fresh produce, food, and handmade goods. Then, grab dinner from one of several food trucks and listen to live music on the green space. June 15-16: Summertime Bham Craft & Vendor Fair at Riverchase Galleria Support local vendors and escape the summer heat at this indoor craft and vendor fair. Shoppers will find handmade crafts, home décor, clothing, art and more. The fair is open during the Galleria's regular business hours. June 21: Hydrangeas Under the Starts at Aldridge Gardens at 6:00 p.m. Come to the gardens for a summer evening filled with starlight and gorgeous hydrangeas. An indoor reception and silent auction will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner under the pavilion at 7:00 p.m. For more information about this premier fundraising event, go to aldridgegardens.com. June 21: Berry Day at Ross Bridge from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Enjoy a special berry-themed treat at Ross Bridge's farmer's market on Berry Day. Shop local vendors, including farm fresh produce, food, and handmade goods. Then, grab dinner from one of several food trucks and listen to live music on the green space. Maker feature For small business owner Jen Batson, celebrating alongside those she loves is one of the best things about being part of the Hoover community. “Clients will send me pictures or post them on social media, and I love knowing I was able to be part of the beauty of celebrating,” she said. Jen, who is 55, opened her home-based floral business, Garage Corsage, on January 1, 2024, after a conversation with a close friend about how they would spend the second half of their lives. “We spent a lot of time talking about how people act like life is for those who are young, like those are the best years of your life,” Jen said. “But we fully believe that the best is yet to be, and God will still use us until the very end to bring Him glory!” From there, Jen’s lifelong love of fresh flowers began to blossom into a way for her to spread joy to friends and neighbors. She recalled a floral arranging workshop she attended a couple of years prior, where she learned new skills and “had an absolute blast.” Jen enjoyed keeping fresh flowers in her Hoover home and quickly incorporated the tips and tricks she learned into her own personal bouquets. She began making floral arrangements more often, giving them away to friends and neighbors and creating them for her parties and friend’s celebrations. Soon, she realized her way of spreading joy, the beauty of the flowers, and the special moments she was able to be part of were her life’s new calling. As Garage Corsage grows in popularity, Jen’s business goals are growing, too. She says, “My first goal is to get a refrigerator for my garage so that I have a place this summer to keep my floral arrangements cooler! Every time I have a big order, I have to clean out our refrigerator in the kitchen!” She would also like to be able to hire a part-time assistant to help with large orders around holidays. Right now, she doesn’t mind the busyness because “friends are lending a hand, which is also fun!” To order an arrangement for Mother’s Day, dance recitals, birthdays, school dances and other occasions, follow Garage Corsage on Instagram @Garage_Corsage and click the link in the profile to view options and prices and to order. AD SPOT: Bluff Park Community Reader The second issue of the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader is here, and people all over Bluff Park are talking about it! Maybe it was the interview with Bluff Park artist and Zentangle master Darla Williamson; the chat with Rev. Marge Doyle of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church; Kevin Russell’s top 5 gardening tips; or the dozens of photos of people from around the community. Want to read the entire issue? Follow the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader on Facebook or Instagram for all the details! Lauren Sisler story Look to the sideline of an SEC football game, and you may see ESPN Reporter Lauren Sisler executing her signature “sideline shimmy.” It’s a dance she’s perfected over the years, performing it with athletes, mascots or just by herself. Her moves on the sideline represent the joy Sisler brings to her profession and the strength she’s developed by overcoming tragedy. Sisler got her start in sports broadcasting while attending Rutgers University. She found that storytelling, which served as an initial spark, has taken a far more prominent role in her career, saying, “That was something that I didn’t necessarily see early in my career, but it has become more and more visible. It has been really the primary drive for me as I’ve developed in my career as a sports reporter.” Sisler landed in Alabama in 2011 while working for ESPN. Though she hails originally from  Roanoke, Virginia, Alabama has become a second home. She has found a lot to appreciate in the Yellowhammer State saying, “It is very underrated in terms of the outside world’s perception.” She feels that Birmingham, in particular, flies under people’s radar. Straddling the line between a small city and a metropolis provides a unique living experience for all residents. Sisler resides in Hoover with her husband and nine-month-old son. Since neither she nor her husband are from Hoover, the topic of moving arose, but neither of them felt a move would make sense. Hoover had become home, after all. “It really has been just a beautiful journey of getting to place our roots here and embed ourselves in a community,” Sisler said. “We truly believe that the community is our family, and that’s very special to me. You can’t find that everywhere.” Connecting with others is of particular importance to Sisler. In her freshman year at Rutgers, she lost both her parents to prescription drug overdoses. Along the path to recovery, she found a passion for telling her story with the hope of helping others in similar situations. “It is always my hope and goal when I stand in front of them to meet them where they’re at and help them see that their story is important,” Sisler said. “Their story is powerful. They, too, can fall in love with their story. Ultimately that gives them the ability to move forward past some of the things that might be holding them back in their lives and help them to really find their purpose.” Alongside these public speaking outings, Sisler has spent the past two and a half years  working on a book titled “Shatterproof: How I Overcame the Shame of Losing My Parents to Opioid Addiction (And Found My Sideline Shimmy).” The fruits of the writing process have certainly shown themselves to Sisler. Despite being twenty-one years removed from the tragedy, many aspects of it were hidden, revealed only in the act of putting pen to paper. Just as she does in her speeches, Sisler hopes that “the incredible amount of healing” she got from writing the book extends to her readers and helps them find their sideline shimmy, whatever form it may take. To purchase the book, visit laurensisler.com. AD SPOT – JEFFERSON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE (use same ad as the previous podcast) GARDENING TIPS FROM A LOCAL EXPERT If you’re anything like me, your thumb is a little more brown than green. But it doesn’t have to be that way! In the heart of Bluff Park, Kevin Russell tends his garden behind his house on Park Avenue. The local home gardener with a passion for nurturing life from the soil is the founder of Bluff Park Farms, a Facebook group for all garden enthusiasts. Established in 2016, this online community quickly blossomed into a thriving hub of green-thumbed individuals, all eager to exchange tips, celebrate their gardening triumphs, and seek advice. We asked Kevin to share his top gardening tips. So, get your gardening gloves on and let’s get to planting. 1 - Advice - Finding great professional advice will save you time and money. There is a tremendous amount of great information online and talking with other gardeners will be rewarding for your garden from their experience. Find a site like Bluff Park Farms (BPF) that gives out free advice to fellow gardeners and will answer your questions. Build a detailed calendar with a to-do list for your key garden chores that includes soil conditioning, planting times, and fertilizing. 2 - Soil conditioning - Not all dirt is the same.  You can have your soil tested and you will know exactly what you need for your garden soil. I never have. I tend to go with lots of organics as Mother Nature provides for her forest. Composting is a big part of the garden and the better the compost you can make or find, will produce better stronger and more productive plants. 3 - Sunlight - Every basic garden will need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to fully develop plants to the point of good production. Next is knowing which plants like the most light compared to those that only need 6 hours. My lettuce and parsley like 6 hours while my tomatoes and peppers love as much as they can get. I planted a few smaller trees to give me that afternoon shade for those plants that need less. 4 - Water Consistency - Always try to keep the plant at the same consistency with water when possible. They will wilt when they need it but over watering can cause diseased shallow rotting. You can buy a meter to monitor the water level in your soil. 5 - Weed Control - If you have raised beds or doing container gardening it’s not a big problem, but for larger plots as ours at Bluff Park Farms, we must take on the weeds with other methods. This year we are putting down a weed barrier to give us more time to garden instead of weeding which I do not like.  Find your way to handle the weeds before they get a chance to take over. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

12. 

    1 May 2024

    Enjoy Hoover May

    Calendar of events Well, May-cember is here. Every year, it seems May gets busier, and it just feels like it’s as busy (or busier) than December! That’s a good thing, though. Hoover is a community with TONS going on for just about anyone. May May 1: First Saturday Cruise In at Hoover Tactical Fire Arms from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Hosted by the Dixie Vintage Antique Automobile Club, the cruise in features antique and vintage cars in the Hoover Tactical Fire Arms parking lot on Highway 31. Talk with owners, listen to oldies music and sip complimentary coffee. May 4: Donor Dash for Life 5K at Veterans Park at 8:00 a.m. Presented by Donate Life Alabama, this 5th annual run benefits organ, eye and tissue donation awareness programs throughout the state. Register at donatelifealabama.org. May 6-8: Scholastic Book Fair at Hoover Public Library from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. A book lover's dream come true! Families are invited to shop the fair daily to find their new favorite summer read and more. May 7: Mayor's Prayer Breakfast at the Hyatt Regency at 7:30 a.m. Featuring guest speaker and Auburn head football coach Hugh Freeze, the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast brings elected officials, religious leaders, business leaders and the community at large together for a faith-based event. Tickets and tables are available at thelibrarytheatre.com. May 7: Mother's Day Market at Brock's Gap Brewery from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Find the perfect gift for mom made by local vendors and artists. Enjoy drinks from the brewery and grab dinner from some of Hoover's favorite food trucks. May 8-12: Regions Tradition at Greystone Country Club Experience PGA Championship history at the Regions Tradition. Now in its 35th year, this premier golf event features legends of golf as they compete in one of the Champions Tour’s majors. Find details on admission, times and more at regionstradition.com. May 17: Flower Market Farmer's Market at Ross Bridge from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Ross Bridge's first farmer's market of the summer season takes on a floral theme. Shop local vendors, including farm fresh produce, food, and handmade goods. Then, grab dinner from one of several food trucks and listen to live music on the green space. May 21-26: SEC Baseball Tournament at the Hoover Met The road to Omaha begins in Hoover! The top 12 teams in the SEC will play for the title of SEC Champion at the Hoover Met. For game times and admission, go to secsports.com (https://www.secsports.com/championships/baseball-championship). May 24: Summer Reading Kickoff at Hoover Public Library from 1:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. The summer reading program offers incentives and prizes for avid young readers. Come to the official kickoff for games, snacks, crafts and mini-concerts with Roger Day every 30 minutes! Restaurant feature Have you recently been craving a perfectly-crafted sandwich with layers of yummy goodness? If so, you must familiarize yourself with The Electric. The Electric is a neighborhood watering hole and restaurant created by husband and wife team Ben and Laura Smith. The Smiths are service industry veterans and knew they wanted to provide the Bluff Park area with a great place to relax, have a great meal, and enjoy a cold beverage. Roughly seven years ago, Ben and Laura moved to Bluff Park. They love their community, and The Electric was born out of a desire to provide the neighbors with something unique and special. If you’ve never tried The Electric, schedule a visit for your next evening out. During the spring and summer seasons, you can catch live music by various musicians and grab one of their signature cocktails. You can keep up with current specials and the latest music schedule on Instagram at theelectricbp. Trivia lovers can find their own home at The Electric. Each Tuesday, trivia is hosted by brothers Will and Reed Lochamy (pronounced Lock-a-me), on a rotating basis. Does the sound of turkey, bacon, provolone,"205" mustard, lettuce, and tomato on locally-made sourdough excite you? Then “the Henkel” is calling your name. Maybe chicken, cheddar, white BBQ sauce, tomato, and balsamic greens on Hinkel's sourdough is more your speed? Be sure to order the Camilla (a favorite of Enjoy Hoover publisher Matthew Allen). Italian lovers will be thrilled with the T.G. - ham, pepperoni, family slaw, and garlic mayo on a brioche bun. Weekly specials are always on the menu at The Electric. Check with the restaurant and follow their social channels for more information. Online ordering is available for pickup and delivery is an option through DoorDash. If you need superb sandwiches for a crowd, consider The Electric for all your catering needs. AD SPOT: Bluff Park Community Reader The second issue of the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader is here, and people all over Bluff Park are talking about it! Maybe it was the interview with Bluff Park artist and Zentangle master Darla Williamson; the chat with Rev. Marge Doyle of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church; Kevin Russell’s top 5 gardening tips; or the dozens of photos of people from around the community. Want to read the entire issue? Follow the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader on Facebook or Instagram for all the details! SUMMER CAMPS Summer camp is not like it was in the good ol’ days. It’s much, much better! From music lessons and dancing to basketball and arts and crafts, “camp” is much more than, well, camping. Check out some of Hoover’s most popular summer camps for children and see what makes each one special! Aldridge Gardens Aldridge Gardens camps are available for boys and girls entering kindergarten through 3rd grade. Camps take place from June 3–June 28 in four categories: Art in the Gardens, Technology and Design, All Things Creative, and the American Girl Doll camp. Camps are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Snacks and water will be provided. Pre-registration is required. “All camps are led by Alabama Certified Teachers in the beautiful outdoor classroom of Aldridge Gardens,” said Megan Jones, education and volunteer coordinator for the City of Hoover. For more information, call (205) 739-6558 or go to www.aldridgegardens.com (http://www.aldridgegardens.com). Hoover YMCA At the Hoover YMCA, campers get to choose from a variety of games, crafts, or activities. For an extra fee, campers can also take swimming lessons during the camp day. Unlike many other camps, the YMCA camp day runs from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with before and after care included in the cost for working families who need convenience and flexibility. “Our camp offers special clubs and workshops for older campers, allowing them to explore their passions, try something new and gain independence in choosing how to spend portions of their camp day,” said Kayla Buckner, marketing and communications director for the YMCA of Greater Birmingham. “Younger campers enjoy the same group counselor and group each week, giving them confidence and allowing them to build friendships.” Buckner said The YMCA takes pride in being a quality, affordable and accessible summer camp for families of all circumstances. “Financial assistance is available, and all levels of need are considered,” For more information, call 205-829-1399 or go to www.ymcabham.org/summer-day-camp (http://www.ymcabham.org/summer-day-camp). Hoover’s BEST “We are all about providing the best experiences for our summer campers,” said owner Cameron White. “Our goal is to help them become the best versions of themselves both mentally and physically.” In addition to traditional activities like outdoor sports (including flag football and soccer,) educational lessons, and arts and crafts, Hoover’s Best offers martial arts, 3D modeling, science and dance and tumbling classes. For more information, call (205) 988-4200 or go to www.hooversummercamp.com (http://www.hooversummercamp.com). Mason Music At Mason Music, campers play real instruments while learning fundamental music concepts. Camps include Singing Safari for preschoolers, Guitar Camp for Beginners (ages 10–15), and Vocal Performance Camp, where your child can learn about voice, diction, how to prepare for auditions and record themselves singing! The Rock Band Camps are for children ages 10–18 who already play an instrument; they’re paced with other kids to form a “band” and learn to play their favorite songs! For more information, call (205) 582-2238 or go to masonmusic.com. J Smith Hoops J Smith International provides superior instruction dedicated to improving and developing the basketball – and social skills – of players of all ages. Founded by a family with a passion for basketball (all five Smith siblings received full basketball scholarships!), J Smith Hoops has been home to thousands of young campers from all over the world! The camp offers a 4-day program with options for all ages and experience levels. J Smith Hoops Basketball Camp, which offers full and half-day camps,  is June 24–27, and the Smokin’ Joe’s Basketball Camp is July 29–August 1. All camps are at the Finley Center at the Hoover Met Complex. “We have a unique way of engaging campers in learning the fundamentals, how to play the game, and how to compete. No matter the skill level, we find ways to make sure campers are challenged in all camp activities,” said director Jason Smith. “Our goal is to light that fire inside to make the player want to go home and practice more. With JSH camps, campers will have so much fun that they forget they are learning.” For more information, go to www.jsmithhoops.com (http://www.jsmithhoops.com). AD SPOT – JEFFERSON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE (use same ad as the previous podcast) ADVICE FROM SENIORS May marks high school graduation for seniors at Hoover High School and Spain Park High School. We visited with members of the Class of 2024 and asked them to share their favorite high school memories and advice for rising freshmen. Jeries L., Hoover High School (I think this is pronounced like Jarius) The four years of high school are the most vital years of anyone's life. The person that someone is 5, 10, 20, or even 50 years down the road is all dependent on the choices that one makes in high school. High school is the time when many of us gain the most independence: we learn to drive, we have to stand up for ourselves both personally and academically, and we are held responsible for our own actions. We lay the foundation of our personality, work ethic, motivations, and most importantly, character during these years. It is a time of having fun and enjoying life, but also a period of becoming the person that we want to be. Sutton L., Hoover High School Throughout my four years at Hoover High School, the amount of love and support received from my teachers and the administration has been overwhelming. I have had too many teachers to count who have made a significant impact on my life. There is one teacher in particular that comes to mind when I think about this. My sophomore year, my mom was going through some health issues. There was not a single day that went by that year that this teacher did not ask me how my mom was doing. It is little things like this from teachers at Hoover that add up. They have made my four years here some that I will never forget! Tatum A., Spain Park High School Being able to form relationships and journey through life with my friends, teachers, and coaches at Spain Park will be what I miss most about high school. Time will come and go, but the people I’ve crossed paths with are eternal, and they have made the past four years so special. Praise Jesus for this, and all He’s done! Madelyn R., Hoover High School My biggest advice for an incoming freshman would be to get involved! Hoover has provided me with so many opportunities to meet new people through involvement within the school and I could not be more grateful! I have been able to connect with so many peers through various organizations that I never would have met otherwise and these relationships are something that I will always cherish about my time in high school! Auryn T., Spain Park High School My favorite Spain Park memory is when our 2021-22 Spain Park Girls Soccer team won State. My advice for incoming freshman is to do all of their assignments on time because those little points add up. McKenzie B., Hoover High School Starting as a timid freshman, the vastness of Hoover High School initially overwhelmed me. Yet, It is within this expansive campus that I have developed an appreciation for the network it offers. Hoover High has allowed me to connect with a diverse array of individuals. And as I am surrounded by thousands of peers who aspire to be physicians, attorneys, engineers, business owners, and much more, I am continually inspired. As I prepare to pursue higher education and step into the professional world, I'm deeply grateful for the expansive network that Hoover High has provided, ensuring that wherever I go, I'll have a support system cheering me on. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

13. 

    1 Apr 2024

    Enjoy Hoover April

    From the Enjoy Hoover Studios. This is the Enjoy Hoover Podcast, your monthly guide to news and exciting events, all with big city style. With a small town feel. Everyone is welcome here to our small, enticing piece of Alabama. So welcome you all to enjoy Hoover! Hello and welcome to the Enjoy Hoover Podcast. My name is Melissa Carter and we're so glad you're here. I'm going to start with all the things going on this month because April is packed with incredible events in Hoover. Let's start with the Dixie Vintage Antique Automobile Club first Saturday cruise on April 6th. It goes from 7 a.m. until noon at Hoover Tactical Firearms. Now, vintage car lovers will enjoy checking out this family friendly event featuring the restored and preserved rise of Alabama's oldest car club. On April 8th, it's helping hands from 3 to 8 p.m. at Hoover Public Library. Teens and adults are invited to drop in on this monthly volunteer session to help roll newspapers for the local humane society. Please come to the nonfiction area to participate on April 20th. It's family art from 2 to 4 at the Hoover Public Library. Children and their grownups are invited to work together to create a collaborative art piece. This event will be held in the youth program room. On April 27th. Celebrate Hoover Day from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Veterans Park. This annual citywide celebration draws more than 10,000 residents from all ages for carnival rides, live entertainment and a petting zoo. Plus, you got a Kid Zone ice cream and the largest apple pie you have ever seen. And this event is free and open to the public. On April 27th, it's hope for autumn crawfish boil from 3 to 9 p.m. in Ross Bridge. Join more than 2000 attendees for this annual event, benefiting Alabama families that are battling childhood cancer. Admission includes all you can eat crawfish, hamburgers, hot dogs, non-alcoholic beverages, bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals, and live entertainment. Tickets can be purchased at Hope for Autumn foundation.org, and on April 19th, it's denim and dining at 6 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens. This casual event is the largest annual fundraiser for the Hoover City Schools Foundation. It features local barbecue music and live and silent auctions. Proceeds support grants for special programs in the city's 17 schools, and tickets are available at Hoover csf.org/events. If you live and play in Bluff Park, you know it's a special community. GMC media is proud to announce its newest magazine, The Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader. This bimonthly magazine is full of community news, information, photos, stories, and more. Mailed every other month to homes and businesses in Bluff Park. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with all that's going on. On the bluff. In 2008, friends and relatives gathered for a small backyard crawfish boil to raise money for the family of a little girl named Autumn, who is battling childhood leukemia. Autumn was among the 190 children who were diagnosed with cancer each year in Alabama. Understandably, a childhood cancer diagnosis is challenging for a multitude of reasons, but in addition to the newfound responsibility for caring for a sick child, families often face financial obstacles as well, losing up to 40% of their household income. If one parent needs to stop working in order to ensure their child has around the clock care. Over the years, community support grew for autumn and the families in similar situations. In 2012. Hope for Autumn Foundation was officially founded as a 501 C3 public charity to provide financial help to families, fund research and spread awareness. Today, the foundation is gearing up for its largest annual fundraiser, a family friendly, all you can eat crawfish boil held in a large green space on Grand Avenue in Ross Bridge, scheduled for April 27th from 3 to 9 p.m.. The hope for autumn crawfish boil is expected to raise around $200,000 for more than 2000 attendees and 60 sponsors. Amanda Neur, the executive director for Hope for Autumn Foundation, says the funds from the crawfish boil will directly support families battling childhood cancer in Alabama. And as this signature event grows, so does the organization's ability to help. We used to be able to help 1 to 3 families one time per year every year, says Nour. But now Hope for Autumn Foundation accepts financial assistance applications year round from families from the Alabama region, now in its 17th year. Guests can expect £4,500 of fresh crawfish boil on site. Hamburgers, hot dogs and non-alcoholic beverages are also included in the admission price. Admission is $50 for those over 12 years old. If you're 5 to 12 is $20, and if you're under five, it's absolutely free. The boil has become a community social affair, with neighbors pitching in to purchase a group tent to serve as their home base for the day. Tent rentals, which range from 100 to $300, include a cooler with ice provided on site, but all attendees are welcome to bring their own cooler, too. Chairs are available on a first come, first serve basis for an additional fee, and event sponsors receive additional perks, including admission into a VIP tent. School age children, even those who may not be crawfish fans, enjoy jumping in the bounce house and getting their faces painted, both available at no additional cost while connecting with friends. As the day unfolds, a large crowd forms around the main stage to sing and dance along to live entertainment. This year's music lineup includes The Divines, who began as a local band, and whiskey River band, a country cover band. Proceeds from the boil will also support efforts to raise awareness and promote research. Because raising awareness leads to funding and funding leads to cures. In terms of research, Hope for Autumn Foundation contributes to Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders Developmental Therapeutics Program, a cutting edge research and treatment program located at Children's Hospital of Alabama. This program serves the children with incurable cancers, providing treatments that are not widely available, says Nerv. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to Hope for Autumn Foundation. Org. Tickets will go on sale closer to the date of. The event. For over 50 years, Jefferson State Community College has been a beacon of education in the Greater Birmingham area with a commitment of quality, convenience and personal attention. We've helped over 15,000 students annually achieve their goals, offering 120 university transfer programs, 33 career programs, and countless certificates across four campuses and online. We're one of the largest community colleges in the state. At Jefferson State, we believe in accessible, economical education. Find your place at Jefferson State, explore our programs and let us help you accomplish your vision. Visit Jefferson state.edu today. Explore our site and discover how Jefferson State can help you find your place. Your journey starts here. Obi, a Labrador Retriever, is a certified police dog serving as a school resource officer at Hoover High School. He joined the Hoover Police Department in August of 2018, and has been certified as a police dog for almost six years. Now we sat down with Obie and his handler, Officer Kyle Broll, for a behind the scenes look at a life as part of the K9 unit. And here is what Obie had to say. Obie, how did you get your name?I was named after Jedi Master Obi Wan Kenobi in Star Wars. I have a friend whose human partner is a huge Star Wars fan, and Obi-Wan Kenobi is my favorite character. Interestingly enough, my friend's name is R2-d2. Why were you chosen to be a police dog? I was chosen to be a police dog because I have high dog drives, a main driver hunt, retrieve prey, train ability, and plane. This makes me a great candidate for a working dog. My favorite job is playing, of course.00:08:03S2Tell us more about your role as a school resource officer. My human officer, Kyle and I are both school resource officers. My role is to support him by detecting drugs. I also like to comfort children when they may need some help or if they're having a bad day. I love going to work every day at school. Everybody is so nice, and I get plenty of belly rubs from each of the teachers and students. They refer to us as Obi and that guy that is with Obi. What does it take to become a police dog? To become a police dog? I had to work extra hard on my drives. I had to go through stressful classes throughout puppy hunt, my human partner and I had to go through an intense four week drug detention course. I, of course, was already trained when my human partner came along, but we had to get to know each other and learn how to work together. I had been through two other courses prior to the two of us teaming up. What do you like most about being a police dog? What I like most about being a police dog is training with my human partner. We get to spend all day together hunting and playing, and after training he usually throws the ball for me to fetch. What is your favorite treat? My favorite treat is anything. I love all kinds of human food and dog treats. I have a buffet every morning in the school courtyard eating food that the kids drop.00:09:12S2Tell us about your family. My family consists of my partner, Officer Kyle, my mom Taylor, my younger human brother Bryson, and my doggie sister, Skyler. When I retire from the police department in a couple of years, I get I get to spend the rest of my life with them. OBE. Tell us about some of your favorite things. I enjoy waking my human up at 4 a.m. every day to be fed my breakfast. I also enjoy coming to school and being treated like royalty. I love playing fetch and being petted when I am tired. I probably have the best job at all the dogs in my unit. We appreciate Oby taking the time to talk to enjoy Hoover. We are so excited to have David Cohen with us here on the podcast now. David, of course, is involved with Enjoy Hoover Magazine. But also my favorite part is the owner of the whole scoop ice cream shot. David, how are you? I am just. Wonderful. Life is good. It's springtime. We are going to talk about spring leading into summer and some of the summer fun in Hoover. But first, I want to talk quickly about how you got involved and enjoy Hoover Magazine. Well, you. Know, Matthew and I have known each other for a long time. We did the Taste of Hoover kick off and he was in the magazine business. I was looking for a venue and a vehicle to get everything going in the city, and we thought it would be a great time to showcase all of our local restaurants. So that's when I met Matthew. Initially, him selling me advertising and enjoy Hoover is just a passion. I think if you deem yourself a hospitality professional, which I do, and in a local person who wants our city to grow and to benefit and to become all it can be, you want more and more had to be more than just my wonderful ice cream shop. It had to be more and more for me was how do I help showcase our restaurants? How do I help showcase all the small businesses here who need and deserve the love? Many of them are mom and pops, husbands and wives and they're growing their business. They put it all out there and that's how Enjoy Hoover started. It's a passion. It's not just about selling ad space, it's about telling the story of who we are here and Hoover. And people want to come here because I'd love to think they come here for the ice cream shop. Oh, well. You don't know that, David. Well, I tell myself that people move here because of the education. I mean, we have great schools. They move here for the public service. We have great fire and police departments. And there's a true southern hospitality here in Hoover. I like to call southern hospitality Hoover style. That's very welcoming. You know, when we moved here 17 years ago and we pulled into the cul de sac, the neighbors came out and welcomed us. It's just been like that when we opened up our business, we had people who came in and said, we want you to succeed. And I don't know about you, but I never heard anyone say that team before. I've been in business a long time. Enjoy. Hoover is telling a story of who we are to the guests who live here and the people who visit here. Well, that's what makes Hoover such a special community. And like you said, you've been there for 17 years now, and you opened the whole scoop ice cream shop. I'm curious of the background you had in the culinary industry, and what led you to actually deciding to open up this shop? You know, I've always been a hospital and a professional working in big restaurants and hotels and and a hotel job is what got me adhere to Birmingham. I realized after a while that I have an entrepreneurial streak, and an entrepreneurial streak is about having a certain amount of expertise. Mine is culinary, mine is hospitality, but it's also being willing to take a risk. It's really funny. I enjoyed working in corporate America, but at a certain point, the entrepreneurial streak that I had just didn't jive with, with who I wanted to be and and how I wanted to work in corporate America. So it was time to venture out on my own, and we tried to come up with something that I would enjoy, something I would love, and what's my passion? And my daughter Katie, who's now 23, she takes full credit for it and I don't I don't argue with her about that. She says, you love ice cream. Do ice cream. You know, no one is ever unhappy at ice cream. It's been it's been a roller coaster ever since. But it's just been just wonderful. Now, David, I assume that owning an ice cream shop and being in there like you, like you said in your daughter said that everybody's happy when they go into an ice cream shop. That's got to be more than just being a business owner. I mean, the conversations you must have with the people that come in there and the kids you see grow up in that time coming into the shop and then later on coming in as an older kid. I mean, talk about just the holistic experience it is to own an ice cream shop. Well, it's funny, I've never heard it put it as a holistic experience, but I'll buy that. Uh, you know, for me, when I interviewed the young people who work here and we've had over 40 young people start their careers in the workforce here, 16 year old knuckleheads who have never had a job and don't know what it's all about. And when I interview them, I say, okay, it's a trick question. What do we sell here? We sell a whole lot more in ice cream. We sell a hospitality experience. And, you know, there's a story that I love to tell. Years and years ago, I had these young man come in and bring me a Lego diorama of the whole school. And he was about 9 or 10 years old. And don't you know, when he turned 16, I hired him as as an employee here at the Whole scoop. And he worked for us for two years, and he got a job summers working at Ross Bridge Resort, and he went to Troy as a hospitality professional, and he just got promoted to assistant manager at the Marriott down in mobile. Oh that's great. Out of those 40, we've had a couple into the military. We've had four of them become parents. We have them venturing into the workforce and they've learned their skills and how to be a grown up here at the whole school. The whole school. In this town has gotten to be the place you celebrate the first day of T-ball. It's got to be the place that you celebrate your state championship. Unfortunately, we've had people come in here after the funerals. We get to be the center of the community, and it's more than I could have ever hoped for. In my heart. You get to see this younger generation grow and learn, but you're always wanting to grow and learn. So let's talk a little bit about that Iron Chef competition. We have Restaurant Week, which was started during the Covid year, and it has grown and grown. And it is a way to showcase our restaurants, showcase our community. And we were looking for a way to kick start it. And Iron Chef is just a fun competition. So we recruited four great chefs from Troy and Families and Bellinis and the Hyatt Regency Hotel Winfrey, and we paired them up with students as their sous chefs and their sous chefs were from Jefferson State Community College and Wrc3, which is our local career connection school. So we gave these chefs the awesome task of not just preparing food, but mentoring these young kids. And it was the perfect blend of being a teacher and being a true culinary. We did it in, Jeff states in their kitchen, which is a big, beautiful kitchen. We put about 30 people in the kitchen watching them. Judges. You know, you had Frank Ricardo last month and he was one of our judges and Claire from work and Joseph Mitchell from Jeff State. They were our judges. And it was just a win. And Matthew Allen, our publisher for Joy Hoover, did the trophy for us with this big old cleaver sticking out of it. It was just remarkable. Before we go, let's talk about Restaurant Week. Let's talk about the summer and what people can expect. We kick it off in July, we take in Restaurant Week and we've turned it into a whole month. We're going to start by showcasing our firehouses. We're going to do a cooking competition between all our fire departments. Bluebell ice cream is giving me desserts. And then we go into a bartender challenge where we sort of do the Iron Chef. But imagine bartenders who are preparing their signature cocktails. And then we go into Restaurant Week and we have 50 to 20 restaurants cooking for us and people tasting. And, you know, anytime you can mix and marry our city to the people that live and work here and toil here, it's a great thing. Let me ask you one last question, David. And look, I, Bluebell, no disrespect, but when you taste that Bluebell is or part of you that says, you know what? This is good. But it's no whole school ice cream shop. Uh. David Corn, who is part of enjoy Hoover magazine. You can find out all about Restaurant Week and enjoy Hoover. And he, of course owns the whole scoop ice cream shop. So go in and have a scoop. David, thank you so much for taking the time to be part of the podcast. I appreciate you having us. Spring is the season for big formal galas and fundraisers across Hoover and the metro area. One of the residents favorite fundraisers is a Night Under the Stars at Aldrich Gardens in their blue Jean best. The Hoover City Schools Foundation's annual and biggest fundraising event, denim and dining. Not only does this Hoover event support a great cause, but the casual night outdoors is the perfect time to mingle with residents and friends, enjoy great music, participate in live and silent auctions, and partake in great barbecue and beverages. Plus, the culinary students at Riverchase Career Connection Center prepare the most delicious desserts this year. Denim and dining will take place on Friday, April 19th from 6 to 10 p.m. at Aldridge Gardens. Tickets will go on sale in early April, so be sure to get yours early at Hoover. CSF mortgage events, individual and corporate sponsorships are available, with an option to purchase a table for eight. The Hoover City Schools Foundation has given more than $700,000 in grants since it was founded in 1992. Recently appointed as executive director, Anne Marie Harvey says that the organization is the only one that represents all 17 schools in the school system. The primary mission of the Hoover City Schools Foundation is to bridge the gap between increasingly limited public schools funding and the growing needs of our students and teachers, she says. This happens in a variety of ways, most notably through teacher grants. Our teachers have amazing innovative ideas, and the money given to the foundation goes right back into the classroom. Examples of projects include the steam on the go kart at Shades Mountain Elementary, which steam teacher Margie Keeney keeps stocked with seasonal activities for the teachers to use in their classrooms throughout the week. Other grants have been given for reading resources the Gems annual event gems, of course for Girls and Engineering, Math and Science, a greenhouse, robotics, the Hovercraft Project, Sensory spaces for students, and much more. A list of grants can be found at Hoover CSF. Org. In addition to grants, the foundation offers a student board for high school students. Students volunteer their time for our efforts and those in our community, Harvey says. They gain interview experience, volunteer hours and a collaborative working environment. Doctor Kevin Maddox, the Hoover City School superintendent, also emphasizes that schools appreciate and benefit from community and business involvement. Businesses contribute financially to enhance what we already have through directly sponsoring sports and arts programs and contributing to the Hoover City Schools Foundation, he says. Those enhancements are designed to provide extras. Those extra opportunities for our students are what separates us from other districts. We cannot make it without them. The Hoover City School Foundation ensures the extras are provided to Hoover students and teachers. For more information on Hoover City Schools Foundation or how to get involved as a board member or a friend of the foundation, just visit Hoover CSF. Org. Thanks for listening to the Enjoy Hoover podcast. For even more information about Hoover and what's happening, we invite you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. This podcast is a production of BGR Group.00:20:44S6All rights reserved. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

14. 

    29 Feb 2024

    Enjoy Hoover March

    Welcome to the second episode of the "Enjoy Hoover" podcast.  This is a guide to some of the fun events and delicious restaurants Hoover, Alabama presents.  We will meet the Mayor of Hoover, Alabama, Frank Bercado and find out what exciting events and changes will be happening. From the Enjoy Hoover Studios. This is the Enjoy Hoover Podcast, your monthly guide to news and exciting events, all with big city style. With a small town feel. Everyone is welcome here to our small, enticing piece of Alabama. So welcome you all to enjoy Hoover!00:00:23S2Hello and welcome to the Enjoy Hoover podcast I'm Melissa Carter. Coming up we have an interview with mayor Frank Bernardo. But first let's check out what's happening in Hoover this month. From sporting tournaments to community celebrations, there's something for everyone now kicking off March, don't miss the indoor pickleball tournament at the Finley Center on March 2nd and third. Now we're going to talk about that more here soon. And on March 2nd, join the 25th annual Arbor Day celebration at Aldridge Gardens with tree giveaways, a formal ceremony, and fun activities for kids. It's a day to connect with nature. Looking to lend a hand will drop by the Helping Hands volunteer session at the Hoover Public Library on March 11th. Role. Newspapers for the local humane society and make a difference in your community. Plus, mark your calendars for the Spring Festival at Riverchase Baptist on March 16th. Egg hunts, games and food trucks await, making it a day of family fun. Now, if you want to learn about public safety, head to the Hoover Public Safety Night out on March 19th at the Riverchase Galleria. Meet local officers, enjoy activities and learn valuable tips for staying safe. Music lovers, don't miss Mac McAnally with Eric Darken at the Hoover Public Library on March 21st and 22nd. Get your tickets for an unforgettable evening of music, and finally, hop on over to Bluff Park United Methodist Church on March 23rd for a community Easter egg hunt with thousands of eggs, photos with the Easter Bunny, and more. It's an exciting event. Get it for the whole family and looking on to April if you're ready to run the high country. Five K in Bluff Park, hosted by Shades Crest Baptist Church, is on Saturday, April 6th. Register now to run or walk this annual race by visiting run Sign-Up. Com now let's talk pickleball, the quirky sport that's sweeping the nation originated in 1965 as a backyard pastime. It's now making waves as a beloved activity for all ages. And if you're curious to join the fun, mark your calendars for the indoor pickleball tournament happening at the Findlay Center on March 2nd and third. Now, whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie, this event promises excitement for everyone. Lisa Fair, the event manager, underscores the inclusivity of the tournament, welcoming players of all skill levels. With men's and women's doubles kicking off Saturday morning at nine and mixed doubles following suit on Sunday. There's something for everyone. Plus, with a double elimination format and guaranteed three games per player, the tournament ensures a thrilling experience for participants and spectators alike. And with ample parking and easy access from I-4. 59 getting there is a breeze. Not to mention the added perk of an indoor venue offering shelter from unpredictable weather. Registration is open with fees covering entry, player gifts and even a catered lunch by Culver's. So whether you're a pickleball pro or a curious newcomer, don't miss out on the action. Visit Hoover Met complex.com for more details. From the cherished memories of her grandparents kitchen to the bustling world of entrepreneurship, Ramsey Nuss journey is a testament to the power and connection of collaboration. Growing up in the esteemed Purcell Farms family business, Nuss was steeped in the values of community and meaningful interactions. Now she's bringing that ethos to life with the all new Bluff Park Coffee Collective. Nuss owns Good Neighbor Baking and is partnering with Dazzle Coffee to open a storefront called Bluff Park Coffee Collective. But it's not just about business, it's about relationships. Nelson's collaboration with Diesel Coffee stemmed from a desire to expand her baking business while maintaining that personal touch ness goal not to win accolades, but to leave a lasting impression through her character and her creations. The Bluff Park Coffee Collective is set to open by early spring, with hours from Tuesday to Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.. For all the latest updates and specials, follow them on Instagram at these three accounts at BP Coffee Collective, at Dazzle Coffee Lab and at Good Neighbor Baking. Coming up, our interview with mayor Frank Mercato after this.00:04:31S3If you live and play in Bluff Park, you know it's a special community. GMC media is proud to announce its newest magazine, The Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader. This bimonthly magazine is full of community news, information, photos, stories, and more, mailed every other month to homes and businesses in Bluff Park. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with all that's going on. On the bluff.00:04:53S1For over 50 years, Jefferson State Community College has been a beacon of education in the greater Birmingham area with a commitment of quality, convenience and personal attention. We've helped over. 15,000 students annually achieve their goals, offering 120 university transfer programs, 33 career programs, and countless certificates across four campuses and online. Where one of the largest community colleges in the state. At Jefferson State, we believe in accessible, economical education. Find your place at Jefferson State, explore our programs and let us help you accomplish your vision. Visit Jefferson state.edu today. Explore our site and discover how Jefferson State can help you find your place. Your journey starts here.00:05:38S2Hoover mayor Frank Cato is here with us. Mayor. Thank you so much for your time. I know it is a precious piece of time, but we love having you on the podcast.00:05:46S4Thank you. We are grateful to be with you.00:05:48S2We love promoting Hoover, and I know that you have recently given the state of the city address. And so, you know, most of the things that people need to know about Hoover were covered there. And I and I thought maybe here in the beginning when, you know, people have lived here a long time or are thinking about moving to Hoover, but talk about the livability in the city. Sure.00:06:09S4Well, you know, that kind of falls on the quality of life and the things that we offer. And and we talk about livability. One of the things I kind of always talk about is, what is it that gets, you know, our kids, we raise our kids here and they go off to college. What gets them to come back here? What makes it attractive? What made it attractive for their mom and dad to live here? And, you know, it all goes back to quality of life. And you think about Hoover. Gosh, our parks and recreation system is absolutely fabulous with some 25 different parks around the city. We have a library that's probably the busiest library in the state of Alabama, and people flock to it for a lot of different reasons. Everything from taking, you know, checking out books to the performing arts that are provided there. Think about our school system. That really is a huge backbone. And the fact that it's one of the largest school systems in the state. As a matter of fact, the high school is the largest high school in the state, and we have around 17 schools. They are a fabulous in the way they deliver a great quality of education for our kids. And we think about our school system. We think about the diversity of our school system. Some 35 to 40 different languages are spoken there. You think about the socio economic diversity, where some 30% of our kids are free and reduced lunch. And oftentimes that is a, you know, can be challenging to a system. Yet Hoover we know how to make it happen. These kids are getting a great opportunity to learn. They're getting a great opportunity to just to share their lifestyle where they came from. They're getting an opportunity if they happen to be kids in poverty or kids that can't speak English. We want to give them all the tools that will allow them to escape that, you know, just to share that American dream. And then when you think about neighborhoods and your businesses and when you when quality of life there, is it safe and Hoover think about this where city of almost 100,000 people and last year we had no homicides. We only had uh, we did have two vehicular homicides. But, you know, we didn't have the violent homicides that you read so much about. Our crime statistics were incredibly low. As a matter of fact, our robberies decreased 40%, burglaries 15%, car break ins 12%, sexual assault 15%. Just our overall offenses were, uh, down about 8%. And so those are the types of things that people look at when they're looking at a community to move into. What's the school system like? How safe is it? What type of recreational opportunities do we have? And, uh, we answer all of those in a positive way, I believe.00:09:13S2Well, it's a shame that this is not video because you're the the the smile, the glow on your face is you're talking about the city you lead. I mean, I think that that is a testament to. I mean, you're so proud of Hoover and there's reason to be now. And I love how you talked about when kids move and go away, you want something that makes them come back. I think parents have the same idea with their children. Hey, I want you as an adult to want to come back and spend time with me, you know, and hoping I did a good job as a parent. But, you know, when somebody comes back to Hoover, it's not like Hoover is stuck in a certain time frame. There's a lot of innovation that happens in Hoover as well that attracts the people to come back. So talk a little bit about that.00:09:54S4So when you think about Hoover and it kind of grew up over the years as a retail center, right? I mean, we've got the Galleria, we got highway 31. Is where you would come to buy a car, or where you would come to the shop at the, uh, you know, at the Riverchase Gallery, all of those things. So the city for a lot of years is I think it's done a really good job trying to, you know, attracting more of your white collar jobs like the Stem industry, for instance. And you saw a lot of that along the 280 corridor and down in Riverchase. And so what we focused on a great deal since my arrival is to build upon that and go out and recruit those types of great companies that when our kids go off to college, or even if they don't go off to college, they want to choose a career that necessarily doesn't have to have a college degree. There needs to be jobs that they can come back to. And, you know, the ideal city is a city that you can live, work and play and never leave your city. As a matter of fact, it's even nice sometimes if you don't have to go, leave too far from your neighborhood, so to speak. So we've done a, I think, a really good job in creating innovation in the city. And, uh, you know, just last about 2 or 3 weeks ago, I guess, we announced the Riverwalk Village and that that's a really a high tech development that's about 100 acres, that's on the region's campus in Riverchase. And, uh, it's a it's a really a wonderful mixed use development that, you know, will come into play over the next three to 5 to 10 years, where there will be probably 500 residences, uh, some great shopping opportunities, restaurants and things of that nature, employment on that campus as well. And then, you know, our goal is to bring a really quality type of health care service to Riverwalk Village. And we're pitching it as a, you know, as a health care destination. And we think about Riverchase. We've already got Blue Cross, Blue Shield. I mean, the that's a major health care company that is already resides in our city. And then we have companies like Bio Quest and Bio Horizons that are down there where life saving drugs are being discovered. Research and discovery going on right there in Riverchase. They're building dental implants where dentists come from all over the world to learn how to put these implants in. So Riverwalk Village, we believe with what's going on at UAB and Southern Research and bio and bio horizons, all of those things combined, we think Hoover is a great place for companies that, as they are born out of UAB or born out of Southern Research or Innovation Depot, we're perfectly positioned to offer those companies a great place to locate and have a great business quality of life. So those are the types of things that we're focusing on each and every day to make it attractive for, you know, people that are already settled in business, maybe in California or somewhere in Illinois or wherever across the country, and they're looking for a change. You're looking for a place where it's a lot easier to do business, and they look around the country and they Alabama, I think, has a great reputation. Well, we want to be part of that reputation as an easy place to do business, where you can move your company here, your kids can go to school here. There's a great quality of life. The housing is wonderful, the public safety is outstanding. And, uh, you know, it's all attractive. Well, it.00:13:38S2Sounds like you're building something for everyone, as you've mentioned. Well, let's talk about that, everyone, because you're also very proud of the diversity that is occurring there in Hoover. Talk a little bit about that. Yes.00:13:49S4So it's really kind of kind of neat. You'll see the diversity. Uh, I think the greatest place to see this is our schools. You walk into our schools and I'm invited often to International Day, and we'll have these kids in their traditional the country that they came from, dressed up in their traditional garb. And it's really fascinating, and it's fun to see that the different languages that are spoken here in about 8% of our population was not even born in the United States. So that's pretty interesting as well. But here's kind of a cool thing. We had about 900 little over 900 new business license issued last year, and it's remarkable how many of those businesses we go and cut the ribbon. And, uh, it's remarkable how many are women? Uh, it's remarkable how many are women of color? And that's kind of, you know, that I think that speaks volumes about who we are and why we're so attractive to people from across every socioeconomic scale, so to speak. And we are proud of that. We promote it. We talk about a lot about it. And I think we put our. Money where our mouth is.00:15:06S2Well, finally, you know, mayor, again, thank you for your time being part of the podcast. I mean, we all enjoy Hoover and want to have other people come in and do the same. But let's talk about the perspective of Hoover and, you know, maybe closing statements about your perspective of your job in the city and just the city itself.00:15:23S4Well, you know, we grew up as a suburb, and certainly we're considered a suburb. We think that we're 100,000 people, were the six largest city in the state of Alabama. So we are measured often by very, very much, much smaller suburbs. And and we really that's not that's not who we're competing against. And that's not uh, and we are in a sense, but really the things that we're trying to do and attract here are maybe not the exact same things that some of our smaller sister cities are trying to attract. But we we look at ourselves like a Franklin, Tennessee or Alpharetta, Georgia, or Scottsdale, Arizona. That's the type of city that we see ourselves that we feel like we need to grow. We need to make sure that we're creating a great place to live. We need to make sure that we're bringing these quality businesses that are so important to so people can have these jobs, and the kids will come back, as we talked about earlier. And, you know, and the other thing, we focus a lot on the types of events that we hold. You think that think about the SEC tournament. I brought 175,000 people, our city last year. You think about the region's golf tournament, what that does. All of the some 700,000 people came through the Hoover Met complex. Those are kind of big city numbers. Those are not suburban types of numbers. And so we have to be prepared to make sure that we can offer a quality event to people like the Southeastern Conference, two people like the senior PGA, because they go to quality cities and they want first class services, and we have to be able to offer those things. So we work really hard and focus on that to make sure that we can answer the bell, so to speak.00:17:16S2Again, mayor Frank Ricardo's smile is contagious. It's a shame you can't see it. But sir, thank you for your leadership and thank you for your time today. We appreciate it.00:17:24S4Well thank y'all. We love talking about Hoover and call us anytime. We had many, many more things we could talk about.00:17:34S1Thanks for listening to the Enjoy Hoover podcast. For even more information about Hoover and what's happening, we invite you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. This podcast is a production of BGR Group.00:17:47S5All rights reserved. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

15. 

    31 Jan 2024

    Enjoy Hoover January

    Welcome to the first edition of the "Enjoy Hoover" podcast.  This is a guide to some of the fun events and delicious restaurants Hoover, Alabama presents.  We will meet the co-publisher of "Enjoy Hoover" and find out more about this wonderful southern town. From the Enjoy Hoover Studios. This is the Enjoy Hoover Podcast, your monthly guide to news and exciting events, all with big city style. With a small town feel. Everyone is welcome here to our small, enticing piece of Alabama. So welcome you all to enjoy Hoover. Welcome to the first edition of the Enjoy Hoover Podcast. Now we want to introduce you to one of the co publishers of Enjoy Hoover, Matthew Allen, and find out more about him and life in Hoover, Alabama. Hey Matthew. Now first off can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Yeah. Uh, my name is Matthew Allen. I have lived in Hoover for 20 years. I grew up in Georgia, went to the University of Georgia and studied journalism, and moved here to get married to my my wife of now 18 years. And my first job was at a newspaper in Shelby County. And prior to leaving that job, I helped start Hoover's magazine, which has been around for quite a while now. And then I worked at Starnes Media, which is another local publishing company, and helped start the Hoover Sun there. So I've kind of got a background of being involved with Publications and Hoover. But in 2019, I went to work for myself, and I bought a small magazine called Birmingham Family. And this coming April, we will be launching our fourth and fifth magazines here in the Birmingham market. What was the inspiration for the Enjoy Hoover magazine and what do you want to get out of it? So enjoy Hoover. Really the credit has to go to David Cohen. David is the owner of the whole scoop ice cream shop here in Hoover. And David's background is hospitality and food and beverage. And being a small business owner, he wanted to do something to help promote restaurants and entertainment and retail here in Hoover. So he launched Enjoy Hoover Comm a few years ago, and about two years ago, he approached me because he wanted to start a magazine to complement the website. And with my background in publishing, um, he and I have become good friends over the years, and he wanted me to help with that. And our third partner is Mitzi Baker, who, uh, has a background and content development and digital advertising and media. So the three of us set out to start enjoy Hoover. And, uh, it's been out almost two years now. So magazine is published every other month, and I'm very proud of it. How does the magazine engage with the community? So the title really explains what we're trying to do. So, uh, we want people to enjoy Hoover. You know, Hoover is no longer a suburb. It is really, uh, one of the largest cities in Alabama. We're close to 100,000 residents. There's a lot going on in Hoover. There's a lot of retail growth. There's a lot of new restaurants. There's a lot of entertainment. And we want enjoy Hoover to be a magazine that appeals not only to residents, people who live and work and spend most of their time in Hoover, but people who visit Hoover as well. And there's a lot of people coming to Hoover for a lot of, a lot of different reasons. So, you know, if you are in Hoover all the time or just for a few days, enjoy. Hoover is there to help you figure out the best places to eat, the best places to shop, and the, uh, fun things that are going on around town. How do you see the podcast help getting the news out to the community? The podcast is obviously, I think, going to be a big deal because people love to listen or listen to podcasts or watch videos. It's me included. A lot of my day is spent listening to various podcasts, and so when I have the opportunity to to start a podcast for my company, I wanted to start with the Joey Hoover because it made perfect sense. There is a lot of good content that we're producing around, uh, local restaurants, local events. And Hoover is a very it's a busy city. A lot of the people that live here have kids that keep them busy going back and forth from place to place, and a lot of times they find themselves looking for something to listen to while they're sitting there waiting for their child to finish whatever they're doing, or on the drive back and forth or the commute back and forth to work. So I felt like a podcast would be a great addition to what we're trying to do with the magazine. What are some hidden gems about Hoover that people may not know about? You know, I think a lot of people, when they when they think about Hoover with their especially if they're not from Hoover, they think sprawling suburban city. And there's some truth to that. There's a lot of growth in Hoover. But I think what a lot of people don't realize is Hoover has a very robust outdoor scene. The city has invested a lot in its parks and recreation facilities. A lot of the developers who are building homes have really committed to setting aside tracts of land to keep that natural. There's one community that has been recently completed that the developer set aside land for a mountain bike trail, and that has become a real destination. The city has worked with, um, with both Jefferson County and Shelby County since we straddle. Both of those counties to produce parks along the Cahaba River. They've developed greenways on the Inverness side of town. They've put a lot of money into renovating their outdoor parks. There's just a lot to do if you're a fan of the outdoors, and sometimes people don't think about that in a more urbanized or suburban area. So what are some topics you'll be covering in the magazine? We try to focus on the three core things in every issue, those being dining, entertainment and retail. And we've got a lot of locally owned businesses. That's kind of our focus. Not that we don't appreciate some of the larger chain establishments, but really we want to support those, the locally owned businesses here in town. So we feature those every month. We are beginning to really expand our partnership with Hoover City Schools. We produced a special magazine back in December called Letters to Santa, where kids from our local elementary schools wrote their letters to Santa, and we published them in our magazine. We are working with the school system on some special publications later this year, and really, we want to be a go to media partner for them to really get the word out about some of the awesome things that students are doing there as well, not only athletically, but academically. We'll have a lot of new features coming up later this year. I don't have hard details and all that yet, but really, I mean, if you're if you're a resident of Hoover or you're here visiting for a few days, there's going to be a lot of stuff that you really enjoy reading in there. Of course, we want people to listen and read the magazine. What else would you like to say to them to get involved? Yeah, I just want to encourage people to interact with us, you know, follow us on social media. We have, uh, Facebook and Instagram pages. You know, our website is currently being rebuilt. We'll have a new, uh, relaunch of that website probably in April. That's going to make it more robust, more interactive. You know, our goal is really just to to not be static. We don't want to be a publication that's out there, and then you never know who's doing it or how to get in touch with them. We we really feed off of interaction from people. So let us know what's going on that we might not be aware of. You know, if you can spread the word about this podcast. Really and truly, I've heard the this first episode, the Enjoy Hoover podcast is really awesome, but it's just scratching the surface. We've got some great interviews planned with people in the community, so it's going to be a lot of fun. I appreciate your time, Matthew. Thank you. Now let's get a feel for what's happening in Hoover, Alabama. New year, new restaurants. Now let's dive into the exciting developments for 2024, highlighting six new restaurants in Hoover. First up, we have Phil Sandoval's Mexican restaurant, strategically located near Soccer Field Dance Studios and the Hoover Complex. It's sure to become a go to spot for post sports dinners. And with rave reviews from its Huntsville location, it is sure to be a hit. Now, if your sweet tooth is calling, Cookie Fix has not one but two locations opening soon in Hoover, one in Brock's Gap and another in Graystone. Founder Amy Jason's magical cookie recipes have gained a local following, promising a delightful dessert experience, bringing a taste of Brooklyn to Hoover Stadium. Trace Village Grimaldi Pizzeria is firing up coal fired brick oven pizzas with a New York theme. Family friendly and casually upscale, it's a pizza making tradition that dates back over 100 years. Five Guys Burgers and Fries is making an impression with their fresh cut potatoes and a commitment to transparency. With stacks of potatoes proudly displayed, they're set to offer a unique dining experience. Super Chix, known for its fried chicken tenders, is expanding its presence in Hoover, with its second location opening soon. In the bazaar, 280 center kids meals come with a side of frozen custard, and their commitment to outstanding service makes it a favorite for families. El Tejano Mexican Restaurant, Bar and Grill has opened its second area location in the Walmart Shopping Center on Highway 150. Following its popularity in Helena, Hoover was a logical choice for its second location. Known for its tacos El Tejano and Tejano nachos, the doors are open, welcoming residents and visitors alike. So whether you're a local, a commuter or in town for business or youth sports, Hoover has something to offer. In a stunning turn of events at the American Express tournament, the University of Alabama's 20 year old sophomore Nick Dunlap emerged victorious this month at the PGA West Golf Course in La Quinta, California. The Greystone Golf and Country Club member and former Spain park golfer has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his first professional win. Dunlap's exceptional score of 29 under par outshone even seasoned professionals, securing him the first place position. However, due to his amateur status, he will not be able to claim the impressive $1.5 million prize. The runner up. South African professional Christian Bezuidenhout will now receive the first place prize. Meanwhile, the three players who tied for third place will be compensated as if they finished in a three way tie for second. Now, despite this twist, Dunlap expressed gratitude. His victory holds historical significance as he becomes the first amateur to win a PGA tour event since 1991, echoing the early success of Phil Mickelson. Notably, he is also the youngest amateur to secure a tour victory since 1910. Now, will he go pro? Dunlap says he is uncertain about his future plans. For over 50 years, Jefferson State Community College has been a beacon of education in the greater Birmingham area. With a commitment of quality, convenience and personal attention. We've helped over 15,000 students annually achieve their goals, offering 120 university transfer programs, 33 career programs and countless certificates across four campuses and online. We're one of the largest community colleges in the state at Jefferson State, we believe in accessible, economical education. Find your place at Jefferson State, explore our programs and let us help you accomplish your vision. Visit Jefferson state.edu today. Explore our site and discover how Jefferson State can help you find your place. Your journey starts here. Hey, are you a Food Network enthusiast? We'll get ready to mark your calendars because Iron Chef Hoover is heating up the scene on Thursday, February 29th at Jefferson State Community College. Modeled after its predecessor, Iron Chef America, this culinary showdown brings together chefs from Hoover's finest restaurants. Now, picture this age chef, armed with their culinary prowess, will be assigned sous chefs, including a high school student from the River Chase Career Connection Center and a college student from Jeff State's culinary hospitality program. Now let's meet the lineup of talent participating Brian Mooney from Trey Luna restaurant, Bobby Beard from the Hyatt Regency Birmingham, the Winfrey Andrew Hatchet of Balinese restaurant, and Chris Kennedy from Fairlie Southern Bar and Kitchen. The challenge each team must prepare a seafood appetizer, a beef entree and a dessert with a twist, a secret ingredient unveiled at the start. A panel of esteemed judges, including Hoover's mayor Frank Brito, chef Joseph Mitchell of Jeff State, and Claire Huddleston of WBrC, will decide the winning team. Adding a dash of humor to the event is an emcee, the fabulous Joy King, known for her comedic flair and the owner of eat, drink, ride, Food Tour, Iron Chef Hoover, presented by Enjoy Hoover, is all about showcasing our area's restaurants while giving back to the community and nurturing future chefs. A big shout out goes to the event sponsors the City of Hoover, Evans Meats, Alabama Cattlemen Association, Cisco Foods, and Briscoe Restaurant Equipment now. For more information, follow Hoover Restaurant Week on Facebook and Instagram. It's chilly out there in the Magic City, but fear not, because there's a local gym that has your winter wardrobe covered. Dear prudence, Dear Prudence is a locally owned woman owned business founded by Prudence Kaufman, a Hoover resident. Prudence emphasizes the importance of shopping local to keep money circulated within the community. Now, according to prudence, Dear Prudence shops bring you the best styles at reasonable prices from classic trench coats to trendy blazers and sweaters, this season's collection offers pieces that you can layer, dress up or dress down. Now, looking ahead to 2024, prudence shares her words of wisdom layer up. Wear a mock neck or sleeveless top under a cardigan or jacket for versatility. As temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Embrace winter whites, shades of white, ivory and cream are big this year, and then try the monochromatic look, extending it to shoes and accessories. Dear prudence isn't just a clothing store, it's a curated mix of classic and trendy, dressy and casual. And if you're looking for gifts or tween and teen fashion, check out their sister stores Blackbird by Dear Prudence and Sergeant Pepper by Dear Prudence. Visit Dear Prudence at Patton Creek, 441 Creekside Avenue, or explore their offerings at the summit. Follow them on social media at Dear Prudence shops on Facebook and Instagram for the latest styles and updates. What is magnesium? Magnesium? Instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring. The magnesium method transforms the way kids understand and appreciate math, building their confidence and love for learning. Help your child achieve their full math potential. With over 1100 centers worldwide, it's easy as one, two, three. Find a math nearest you get a math skills assessment. Talk to the center director about the customized learning plan for your child. Our mission to teach children math so they understand it, master it, and love it. Math can change their lives and they can change the world. And remember, math is fun. Learning and solving math problems are fundamentally stimulating, rewarding, and fun activities. We know how to keep the process fun. Transform your child's math journey with magnesium. Get started today and help them achieve their full math potential. Visit our Math Center in Hoover at 2798 John Hawkins Parkway, or call us at (205) 407-4078 and online@math.com (mailto:online@math.com). Are you looking for a night out in Hoover filled with good food, live music, and a lively atmosphere? Well, you're in luck. So let's take a tour of some of the best spots in Hoover to catch live music and enjoy a delightful evening. Now, first up, we've got Gabriel Sports Cafe and River Oaks Village off Launch Road with over 20 TVs to catch live games. Fridays and Saturdays come alive with the tunes of a live band. No smoking inside, but be ready for a cover charge and a great time. Now we head on over to the casual pint in the Grove Shopping Center. Senior bartender Randall Minto promises live music every Friday and Saturday night. But that's not all trivia bingo, game nights, and even painting events. And be sure not to miss their upcoming Saint Patrick's Day celebration. Are you craving Mexican food? Moss Rock Taco and Tequila in Hoover has you covered with some of the city's best Mexican cuisine. Tuesdays and Saturdays bring live bands starting at 6 p.m.. Manager Caitlin Govan assures a diverse music selection, from covers to old Rock Bingo on Wednesdays and trivia on Thursdays keeps the entertainment flowing, and Cinco de Mayo is a must attend event now for craft beer enthusiasts. Brock's Gap Brewing Company, near Hoover met is the place to be. Manager Jess Pask promises live music every Friday and Saturday nights from 7 to 10 p.m., offering a variety from Billie Eilish covers to AC, DC trivia nights and a soon to come food kitchen will make this spot unique. Be for Brady's in Grove Shopping Center on Highway 150 is not just a family friendly restaurant, but also a sports bar with live acts. On weekends, they're Saint Patrick's Day all day event is a local favorite if you're in the mood for jazz, rhythm and blues and gospel. Tremaine incarnate Thompson's The Perfect Note is the perfect spot. Open since 2016, it hosts top notch productions Thursday through Sunday. Gray Bar on Highway 280 at The Terrace at Greystone Shopping Center offers a diverse music experience, from acoustic to covers on most Friday and Saturday nights, karaoke on some Fridays. As a fun twist to the night, check out their Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest on who's playing and when. And cheers to a night of music and fun in Hoover. Hey Hoover residents and friends, get ready for a spectacular day of celebration because Celebrate Hoover Day is back! Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 27th and head to Veterans Park for a day filled with fun festivities and community spirit. Celebrate! Hoover Day is an annual festival hosted by the city, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever. To stay updated on all the exciting details and announcements leading up to celebrate Hoover Day, make sure to follow Hoover, Alabama Parks and Recreation on both Facebook and Instagram. They'll be sharing the latest news, event schedules, and any special surprises that you won't want to miss again. Celebrate Hoover Day, Saturday, April 27th. Thanks for listening to the Enjoy Hoover podcast. For even more information about Hoover and what's happening, we invite you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. This podcast is a production of BGR Group. All rights reserved. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

16. 

    29 Nov 2023

    Enjoy Hoover Trailer

    Welcome to the new "Enjoy Hoover" podcast.  We will be launching this new and exciting podcast on December 15th! See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 26 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

9

Social presence

94

YouTube

0

Engagement

60

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