Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader - March/April 2026

About Us

Who We Are Staff

The Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader is a bi-monthly magazine published by JBMC Media, a Bluff Park-based, family-owned publisher of magazines in the Birmingham metro area. The magazine is mailed to more than 4,300 homes and businesses in the Bluff Park area.

Subscriptions are available to anyone outside our immediate mailing area for $30 per year. Email subscribe@jbmcmedia.com for details on how to subscribe or send a gift subscription. Does your business want to connect with Bluff Park residents? Call or email us: (205) 883-1877, advertise@jbmcmedia.com, and let’s talk!

All content in this magazine remains the property of JBMC Media, LLC. Any requests to reprint or republish should be directed to matthew@jbmcmedia.com.

Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.

(205) 883-1877 matthew@jbmcmedia.com

(205) 381-1311 michelle@jbmcmedia.com

Editor’s Note

Motherhood and Mother’s Day is a time of joy and celebration— but it can also be a tender, complicated time that carries quiet grief, longing or unresolved emotions. We can’t cover every facet of Mother’s Day in one issue, but we hope a our stories in these pages offer encouragement and care.

You’ll meet JeriKay Moujoodi, who launched Farmhouse Love Home during a difficult season in her pregnancy. What began as simple posts about home projects soon grew into community, encouragement, and a steady reminder that she wasn’t alone. In this issue, she shares part of her story along with her spring and Easter styles — fresh inspiration to brighten your home.

We also sit down with local author and postpartum nurse Rachel Taylor to talk about her new book, “After Baby Comes: Physical, Spiritual, and Emotional Recovery for Postpartum Moms.” Rachel offers a kind, practical, evidence-based guide to healing your body, mind, and spirit. She is also the founder of Mama Did It, a brand dedicated to supporting women through pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood.

This issue also launches a new recurring series,

Creative Classrooms & Community Artists. In each installment, we’ll feature a local artist or art educator and share a project you can try at home (no special training required.) Whether you’re planning a rainy-day activity with the kids or carving out a creative moment just for yourself, this series is all about making art accessible, fun and part of everyday Bluff Park life. First up, local art educator Paige Belgaonkar offers a Mother’s Day-ready project you can customize and share.

We’re also delighted to welcome two new contributors to the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader family. Loyd McIntosh will cover local sports and athletes, shining a light on the teams, coaches and players who bring so much heart and spirit to our community. Writer Hollie Brown joins us to gather the latest happenings around Hoover and bring you in-depth feature stories throughout the year.

As always, thank you for reading, supporting local businesses and cheering on your neighbors. We’re eager to tell more of the stories that unfold just down the street. Feel free to send any story ideas to Bluffwriter@gmail.com.

Enjoy!

practice focuses on guiding homeowners through every stage of the downsizing journey, from evaluating possessions to selling an existing home and purchasing a smaller residence that better fits

From Hard Seasons

JeriKay

is the creator behind Farmhouse Love Home, a cozy corner of the internet where faith, family, and farmhouse style come together. She shares all things home decor, DIY projects, motherhood, and simple Southern living straight from Birmingham, Alabama. Whether it’s transforming a room on a budget, creating faith-filled traditions with her boys, or building multiple family-run businesses with her husband, she loves inspiring others to make their home—and their life—something they truly love. Her channel is all about keeping it real, staying creative, and remaining rooted in gratitude and God’s goodness.

Farmhouselove.co / @Farmhouselovehome Instagram

Spring Decorating with Farmhouse Love Home

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS

PHOTOS BY BRITTNEY FIELDS

Ten years ago, JeriKay Moujoodi launched Farmhouse Love Home while she and her husband were flipping their house in Bluff Park. Back then, she posted here and there carefully curated squares of the projects they were working on, hoping they might resonate with anyone looking to style their home or tackle a DIY or two while on a budget. JeriKay was also pregnant with their son at the time and extremely sick throughout the pregnancy. Sharing their home projects became a positive outlet, a way to keep her mind busy during an incredibly hard season. After their son was born, JeriKay says she struggled deeply with postpartum depression, and the small community she had built on Instagram had become a lifeline. What began as simple posts about home projects grew into connection, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that she wasn’t alone — and she says she will forever be grateful for that.

It is through that connection and encouragement that JeriKay has built a space that is safe, rewarding, helpful, and fun for so many other ladies, moms, and all women searching.

JeriKay has graciously shared some insights for the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader as she shows her springtime and Easter styles. Her expertise and eye for detail truly shine through in her selections, offering fresh ideas for celebrating the season. Whether you’re updating your home or looking for festive décor tips, her advice is sure to inspire.

to Home Sanctuary

This spring, I really wanted our home to feel fresh, light, and full of intention. I focused on adding soft pops of spring color, meaningful pieces, and just a few Easter bunnies sprinkled throughout to keep it sweet and seasonal without feeling overdone.

When it comes to a tablescape, I always start with one main focal point, and for me, that’s almost always florals in the center. You truly can’t go wrong with peonies—they add such a timeless, effortless beauty to any table. I’ve learned over the years that less is more when it comes to table styling. Keeping things simple allows each piece to shine, and a thoughtfully styled place setting can make the table feel extra special without being too busy.

Throughout the rest of our home, I added small pops of color to help bring in that spring feeling, making each space feel warm, welcoming, and ready for the season ahead. Spring decorating doesn’t have to be complicated— sometimes it’s the simple, intentional touches that make a home feel the most loved.

Here are 5 simple, realistic tips—perfect for your Farmhouse Love Home audience and budget-friendly style

1. Shop Your Own Home First

Before buying anything new, walk through your house and “shop” what you already own. Swap décor between rooms, move a lamp, restyle shelves, or repurpose baskets and trays. A fresh layout can make old pieces feel brand new.

2. Focus on One Statement Piece per Space

Instead of filling a room with lots of small décor, choose one main focal point—like a mirror, artwork, rug, or light fixture—and build around it. This keeps your space intentional without overspending.

3. Use Greenery (Real or Faux)

Plants instantly bring life into a space and don’t have to be expensive. Grab affordable faux stems, clip greenery from your yard, or use simple vases and pitchers you already own. Greenery makes any room feel finished.

4. Layer Textures Instead of Buying More Stuff

Mix textures like wood, linen, metal, and woven baskets. Layering throws, pillows, and rugs you already have adds depth and warmth without needing new décor.

5. Decorate With Meaning, Not Trends

Photos, heirlooms, thrifted books, or items with a story will always feel more special than trendy pieces. Decorating with intention keeps your home personal—and saves money because you’re not constantly chasing the next trend.

Hoover Resolution Marks Milestone in Drive to Protect Hale Springs Forever

A move by the Hoover City Council has advanced a community-led effort to permanently protect Hale Springs.

On December 22, council members approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the preservation and development of Hale Springs and voicing support for its nomination by Friends of Shades Mountain (FOSM) to Alabama’s Forever Wild Land Trust program.

The action is viewed by advocates as a key milestone in a broader campaign to safeguard the historic site. FOSM, the nonprofit group coordinating the effort, now aims to secure a parallel commitment from the Birmingham City Council. With endorsements from both Hoover and Birmingham, FOSM plans to submit Hale Springs for consideration by Forever Wild.

Friends of Shades Mountain representatives and supporters attended the Hoover council meeting at which the resolution passed. Supporters say the council’s vote brings the community one step closer to long-term protection for Hale Springs.

For more information follow the Friends of Shades Mountain on Facebook.

Hale springs, 1910. The Freestone spring lies 100 feet below the bluff under a large outcropping of rock. The chalybeate spring (meaning contains iron) is another 100-feet below that. The free flowing and medicinal waters were said to provide refreshing and healing properties. The cave springs are still here today below the bluff. Courtesy Hale family archives, Harvey Hill Copeland Collection, Birmingham Public Library Archives.

Hoover’s New Top Cop

Clay Morris on Technology, Community and Bluff Park

The year 2026 ushered in major changes for the city of Hoover. Longtime Police Chief Nick Derzis became Mayor Derzis, and a new face stepped in to lead the Hoover Police Department: Chief Clay Morris.

The department’s reputation was one of the main reasons Morris chose Hoover.

“Hoover is one of the best departments in the state of Alabama. It’s known throughout the Southeast,” he said. “It has always been known for cutting-edge law enforcement in operations and leadership.”

Morris comes from a family of public servants. His father, brother and mother all served in law enforcement.

“My parents really taught us to be public servants. My sister is an

educator and so on. It is a family affair,” he said. “I don’t know what else I would do. That’s what I was born and raised to do. It’s a calling, without question. You do not survive this career with decades in law enforcement without it being a calling.”

Before taking the helm in Hoover, Morris led the Pell City Police Department. His 25-plus years with the Drug Enforcement Administration included senior leadership roles such as section chief, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) deputy director and assistant special agent in charge, where he oversaw five DEA offices across Alabama and directed operations targeting national and global drug trafficking and transnational organized crime.

Morris began his career with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe, Louisiana, Police Department. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Orleans and a master’s degree in criminal justice.

As a recognized leader in public safety technology and crime reduction strategies, Morris said he plans to build on the strong department he inherited.

“I will continue the pursuit of excellence,” he said.

He believes his executive responsibilities with the DEA prepared him for the job in Hoover. One area where he intends to draw on that experience is technology.

“In my opinion, we can leverage technology more than we do,” Morris said. “Hoover has always been at the forefront of technological innovation in law enforcement. We just need to put that in overdrive — but technology is only an aid — it cannot replace the presence of an officer on the scene. Technology helps us respond faster, understand the situation more quickly, and solve crimes more efficiently.”

Morris also plans to keep strengthening relationships between the department and the community it serves.

“You either learn to build relationships and partnerships or you fail,” he said. “Even going back to when I was a deputy in a parish prison, that is where you learn how to talk to people and how to deal with people. Even here, in Hoover, our job is about relationships.”

With a city the size of Hoover and its many neighborhoods, Morris said the department must be strategic.

“There is nothing like us talking to people face to face — ‘common sense old-school policing’ like getting out and walking the neighborhoods in their beat, getting to know the faith-based organizations and business owners, getting out with the kids at the playground,” he said. “Our officers already do a great job with this, but it’s a conscious effort to keep that up.”

Morris on Bluff Park

“Bluff Park has such a unique character and you can’t beat the views,” Morris said. “We have friends in Bluff Park and it was one of the areas we looked at when we moved here.”

“I think it is great to see young people buying older homes and redoing them. That seems to be something that has been going on the last several years,” he said. “When I took the job as chief, one of my friends brought me a shirt from Bluff Park Hardware. We love the area and Bluff Park has a friend in the Hoover PD and the chief.”

Behind the Badge

Q: What motivates you on a personal level to serve the people of Hoover and the other municipalities where you’ve worked? What values guide your decisionmaking?

A: First and foremost, my motivation and values come from my relationship with Jesus Christ. He is my guiding light, and I can tell you very clearly that, but for His grace, I would not be here. I’ve been in situations where only God’s hand kept me safe, and that’s happened more than once.

Q: What are your favorite ways to unwind or hobbies you enjoy outside of police work—especially interests that might surprise the community?

A: I’m an outdoorsman. I was raised in an outdoors family in Louisiana, the “Sportsman’s Paradise.” I grew up hunting, fishing, and doing things like that. I can sit in a tree stand and just be still, taking in God’s creation.

Spending time with family is also very special to me. I’ve got three wonderful children. We do a lot together as a family. My son just got engaged, so we have lots of planning going on. And with all the kids’ activities—sports, and my daughter dancing and singing—there’s always something meaningful happening.

Postpartum Nurse Rachel Taylor on Real Recovery for Mind, Body, and Spirit

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS

For a lot of women, the story doesn’t end in the delivery room. In her new book, After Baby Comes: Physical, Spiritual, and Emotional Recovery for Postpartum Moms, local mom of three and postpartum nurse Rachel Taylor draws on her 15+ years of experience to guide women through the often overlooked “fourth trimester.” She offers a kind, practical, evidence-based guide to healing your body, mind, and spirit after childbirth.

Rachel also founded Mama Did It™, a brand for a women’s journey through out pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood.

What inspired you to write After Baby Comes, and what personal experiences shaped the heart of this book?

Several weeks after giving birth to my first baby, I had a moment where I thought, “This is really hard. If I’m struggling this much, even with my background in birth and postpartum nursing, how are other moms doing this?” Since then, I have cared for thousands of mothers and seen many of their struggles. It’s like they are thrown onto a new planet to figure out the terrain for themselves. I’ve worked hard to create the guide that helps them feel more at home.

Many postpartum resources focus heavily on the physical side. What made you decide to integrate the physical, spiritual, and emotional dimensions into one guide?

I believe that we are created in the image of God, and just like He is 3-in-1, we are also made this way: body, soul, and spirit. I think it’s impossible to affect one part without affecting another. For example, depression often presents as aches and fatigue, but it’s not a physical problem. When we deal with one area, it will impact other areas. I think to heal well, we need to care for mothers holistically.

If you had to choose one message you hope every new mother takes away from this book, what would it be?

Your struggles and shortcomings do not mean you are a bad mother. You were designed to be the mom of your children, and you have what it takes to do the job well.

Can you talk about some of the most common misconceptions you see about postpartum recovery?

That it only lasts six weeks! This misguided belief sets women up for failed expectations. When they realize they don’t look or feel like their pre-pregnant self, they think they failed in some way. Postpartum takes months to recover from. Though stitches heal at six weeks, we often still have scar tissue, partial uterine prolapse, abdominal separation, and hormone imbalances. These things aren’t done healing. They just need more time.

What emotional challenges do new moms most often overlook or downplay, and how does your book help them navigate those feelings?

Honestly, many of the women I have cared for downplay their feelings. Part of it is the brain changes that lead to vigilance over their newborn. It shifts our focus from us to them. This can be a good thing at times. The other part is postpartum brings up insecurities we already deal with but can no longer hide. It causes a shaking, so to speak, in our souls. If we have struggled with feelings of not fitting in, in postpartum, these are magnified and can feel quite isolating. My book dives into many of the most common feelings and fears new moms have, as well as ways to identify issues like postpartum anxiety, and gives evidence-based, holistic, and medical options to help.

You emphasize spiritual recovery as a key part of healing. How do you define spiritual restoration in the postpartum period?

A big part of spiritual restoration for me was letting go of the expectation that spending large amounts of time reading my Bible, praying, and showing up at church whenever the doors were open equated to faith. What looked normal for spiritual growth pre-baby will look different for a bit in postpartum. I found that small amounts of time count. Things like journaling for five minutes, singing a worship song while walking your baby around, and whispering prayers in the night as you feed your baby all make a huge impact on your spirit. God isn’t disappointed in you for needing simple spiritual connection. He isn’t angry that you are in a new season of life. It’s important to remember, He placed you here.

Were there any surprising insights you uncovered through your research or through conversations with other mothers?

It was huge to find that brain pathways actually change during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Brain matter shifts and begins eliminating old pathways and forming new ones. This is one reason we become prone to issues like postpartum depression, or why we experience “placenta brain,” where we put the milk in the cabinet. Moms have known they feel differently, but didn’t know why. It’s so helpful to know there is a scientific explanation for these things, and it isn’t your fault.

How can partners, family members, and friends better support a mother’s holistic postpartum recovery?

Chapter 2 dives deep into many ways to better support postpartum, but a few I would like to highlight is have conversations ahead of time around roles and responsibilities; Who gets up with the baby at night? Who rocks them to sleep after feeding? What are we saying when Aunt Linda gives unwanted advice? (See the boundary scripts in my book if you need some help.) The smallest acts

of kindness go a long way in postpartum. Leaving your friend’s favorite coffee on her doorstep. Offering to walk her dog. Prepping her a few days of bento fridge snacks. Everyone wants to hold the baby, but reframing that and asking, “How do we hold the mama?” is so important.

For moms who feel overwhelmed or isolated, what is one small, practical step they can take today to start feeling more grounded?

We are often motivated by what our baby needs, but I would challenge you today to do something for you. It can be as simple as ordering your favorite curbside coffee, putting your bare feet in the grass, or attending that postpartum support group you’ve been considering joining. One small step can get you motivated for the next. For me, putting on mascara and changing out of pajamas helped me feel more like myself again.

Looking ahead, do you see this book as part of a larger conversation or series on maternal wellness? What’s next for you as an author?

Yes, I think there is definitely more room for better resources on maternal wellness. Though postpartum has been around forever, in a way, this topic has become groundbreaking. There is so much we haven’t understood about what happens in postpartum or cared for the real needs women have in their fourth trimester. As an author, I see this as a potential series, moving from the foundational recovery work in After Baby Comes, to deeper spiritual help in a devotional, and more practical help as mothers raise toddlers and grow their families.

Learn more about Rachel Taylor at: mamadidit.com, Instagram: @mamadiditofficial, Pinterest: @mamadiditofficial

Through the Lens with George Elliott

George Elliott is a Bluff Park-based photographer whose other careers have included being a public relations executive with BellSouth and the Executive Director of the Nonprofit Resource Center of Alabama. An accomplished photographer, you can find his work at art shows around central Alabama. Contact him at gbjt68@att.net

The DiGiorgio Family

Paul and Meghan DiGiorgio were destined to be together, although they didn’t always know it.

Their parents, the DiGiorgios and the Alesces, knew each other, but Paul and Meghan didn’t “officially” meet until they were in the first grade at Our Lady of Sorrows school.

Throughout their school years, they were “just friends” … talking a lot, going to some proms and dances… nothing serious for Meghan, but not so for Paul. In college, Meghan went on to “play the field,” but Paul kept asking her out on dates. Seems he was quite persistent, and, finally, along the way, they found love. After all, their parents had been high school sweethearts, so they did have role models to follow.

Paul is a Mississippi State graduate and a partner at the architectural firm of Black Design Architecture. He grew up playing with Legos and drawing, and he wanted to design things that would work, which fueled his desire to be an architect. His firm specializes in designs for churches and any commercial ventures. One site that he worked on was Brock’s Gap Brewery in Hoover, which included an outdoor play area for children. He’s also helped to create “highly original” Christmas cards that his firm sends out each year.

Meghan is a geologist and a graduate of both the University of South Alabama and the University of Alabama. She enjoys learning about what Earth’s rocks and oceans reveal about the composition of our world and environment. Meghan works part-time

at Terracon Consultants in its environmental department, mainly focusing on remediation work as a consultant. She ensures that soils and groundwater are safe and that old properties comply with all development codes.

She also worked for the Corps of Engineers. During her early career, about 60% of her work was done in rural Alabama, and she laughs, telling stories about a goat eating her supplies and a dog trying to eat her ring off her finger and the feelings of isolation while doing her work “in the field” far from larger towns. Another interesting thing happened while she was working at a downtown commercial site. She found out that Paul’s great-uncle, at one time, had a street market on a site selling fruits and vegetables, and that same site is now Paul’s current office.

When asked which words best described them, each of them chose three similar words. The first is faith-based; they are members of and very active at Our Lady Of Sorrows Catholic Church. The second is loyal—loyal to family and friends, always offering an ear to listen and a shoulder to lean on. The third is adaptable—always ready for change because things don’t always turn out as planned.

One of Meghan’s other two words is practical; in other words, emotions don’t drive her decisions. She has a ‘matter-of-fact’ attitude. Also, she is selfless... her children say she’s always doing things for them.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Through the Lens with George Elliott

Paul describes his personality as more outgoing. He enjoys meeting everyone and talking with them—never meets a stranger. Adventure-seeking is also an apt description. For example, each year Paul or Meghan plan an anniversary weekend, and they don’t tell their spouse anything about it, making it a big SURPRISE. They remember their first one was at Bryant, Alabama, a small hill town overlooking the Tennessee River Valley.

“Family means everything to us,” the DiGiorgios emphasized. “It always has been and will be the center of our lives.”

“Both of our dads’ families came from Sicily, although they didn’t know each other there. From that beginning, in addition to our parents and siblings, we now each have over 20 first cousins! We spend holidays, birthdays, and many other days with them. We just all “show up” for each other, knowing that we can laugh together in good times and support each other through the not-so-good times.”

“We have three children and a dog,” Meghan said. Evelyn (Evie) is 8, Richard (Ricky) is 6, Juliet (Jules) is 3, and we have a five-month-old Bernedoodle named Lilly. We include them in all the extended family activities. We want them to know their family’s history and their relatives.

“Of course, they’re all different in their own special ways,” Meghan points out. “Evie’s imaginative, observant, and likes “all things outside.’ Ricky’s a creative kid who enjoys drawing and building with Legos, just like Paul. Jules is a spicy Italian, charming, and always “goes her own way.”

We do many activities together, like hiking, playing games, and during dinner, we play “Curious Questions,” where one of us draws a question from a box, and we all answer it. Questions like “What’s something you think adults could learn from children” or “Would you rather live in space or on the ocean floor and why?” They give us a chance to share our thoughts and strengthen our bond.

“We visit the family lake house on Lake Mitchell several times each year. Paul’s family has owned the property for 75 years, so there’s a lot of history to share. Every summer, we also take a week-long beach trip to one of our relatives’ homes at Santa Rosa Beach. All of these activities don’t even include sports, visits with friends, and church activities.”

“It’s a lot, and, at times, a whole lot! But they’ll grow up fast, and we won’t always have these moments to share with them. So, even though it’s tiring sometimes, it’s really important that we make time to spend together,” Meghan emphasized.

“The other day,” Meghan said, “I listened to my younger children playing “family” in their rooms, and hearing their conversations (some of which were meant to be me and Paul talking) was very interesting and showed me that our time together meant a lot to them, too.”

Paul grew up on Old Tyler Road, across from the Hoover-Randle House and Meghan in Helena. They moved to Bluff Park from the Chapel Hill neighborhood in Hoover in 2018.

They appreciate the “community feel” that Bluff Park provides—a place where people of all ages mix together. They value the “small town” vibe but also enjoy its convenient access to other parts of

the Greater Birmingham Area. Additionally, they are impressed with its walkability features.

“If we could wave a magic wand, we’d like to see our community have more family-focused entertainment and restaurant areas... all in one place... that could be easily reached on foot from throughout Bluff Park. We know this would require more sidewalks, and we support that. In planning for this ‘neighborhood friendly approach,’ we would like more ‘play’ spaces for young kids and additional passes available for memberships to Shades Cliff Pool.”

In the midst of their busy lives, Paul still finds time to exercise regularly, and he’s a member of Bluff Park’s adult wiffle ball league. Meghan enjoys baking breads, currently sourdough; she also makes specialty cakes for her children’s birthdays and is a budding artist as well. Together, Paul and Meghan like to collect crosses from all the places they visit.

Paul and Meghan, a young couple who believe in family and community, have established themselves in our Bluff Park community. We are thankful for them and all the other young families who consider Bluff Park as their home. We are all better off for the future that the DiGiorgios and others are creating for everyone.

Growing Up in Patton Chapel The Idyllic Childhood of Hoover Native Becky Roberson

BY HOLLIE BROWN

Becky Roberson is a Hoover native, although it was not really “Hoover” when she was growing up. In the 1950s, the closest gas station or grocery store was in Homewood. It was not until the late 1970s that Hoover really began to develop.

Becky attended Bluff Park Elementary School from kindergarten through sixth grade. She then attended Berry High School for grades seven through 12 and graduated with the Class of 1970. She recalls several teachers who made an impact on her life, the first being her fourthgrade teacher, Mrs. Hale. Mrs. Hale lived in a cabin in Bluff Park that had been occupied by generations of her family and is one of the oldest homes in the area. Becky recalls Mrs. Hale being “mean as a snake,” yet says she absolutely loved her and learned so much from her. Mrs. Hale had a Chinese checkers set, and if anyone ever beat her in a game, she would let them play a game using her special green marbles. Becky beat her one time and earned the chance to play with them.

She also mentioned three high school teachers who left a lasting impression on her: Mrs. Woodfin, her American history teacher, and Mrs. Conley and Mrs. Bailey, both math teachers. When asked about her memories at school, Becky said, “I loved school. I was one of those kinds of kids that was like a sponge. If you knew it, I wanted to know it, too.” Some of her fondest memories include singing in the choir and spending time with classmates decorating the homecoming float. Although she was very well behaved at school, she admits that at home she was not quite as well behaved.

Becky grew up on a family-owned farm with about five families living nearby. She joked that she thinks she grew up in a commune—she just did not realize it at the time. After school, she and her 10 to 12 cousins would come home

and play with the animals, including dogs, cats, and others. They played in the fields and rode the pony as well. Although they spent plenty of time playing, they also had chores, whether in the home or on the farm. She explained that she and her cousins often got into trouble, saying, “What one couldn’t think of, two or more could.” When they did get into trouble, her granddaddy’s punishment was to give them a basket and tell them to pick a couple of rows of okra or whatever vegetable was ready to harvest.

Some of the most enjoyable moments on the farm involved eating supper with her grandmother, a tradition that continued until Becky was about 16- or 17-years-old. She recalled her grandmother making biscuits three times a day, a pound cake every day, and a layer cake about every other day. Most of the food they ate was grown on the farm, with meat coming from the animals and vegetables from their gardens. After supper, the children sometimes went outside to play, but often stayed inside with the adults to play games such as double-twelve dominoes, Rook, or Monopoly. Becky explained they learned a lot of math from those games. Of that group of children, only two grew up to work in fields not related to math.

Becky and her family drove almost an hour to attend a church in Birmingham that was originally called North Birmingham and later became known as Good Shepherd Pentecostal Holiness Church. They attended services on Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings, and Wednesday evenings. Through the church, her family formed close friendships that lasted for years. Becky recalled that her parents, grandparents, and other adults in the family would travel to Destin to fish and bring the catch home to

stock the freezer. Every October, they hosted a large fish fry for family, neighbors, and church members. On Easter, they held a sunrise service in her grandparents’ front yard, followed by breakfast and a large Easter egg hunt using real eggs. These events often drew between 200 and 300 people, and Becky remembers them as joyful times spent with family and friends.

Growing up in Patton Chapel was idyllic for Becky. She becomes a little melancholy when reminiscing about her childhood and says that she and her sister have often remarked, “If every kid grew up the way we did, what a different world it would be.”

Business Chat: Party Art Studio/The Traveling Palette

Meet the Owner - Abbey Crocker, Party Art

BY JUNE MATTHEWS

Tell us about Party Art and what it offers the Bluff Park community.

Party Art is a collaborative art studio that began almost 17 years ago in Pelham. We work individually with each customer that comes in. They get to pick what they would like to paint from all of the inventory. We have door hangers, canvasses, ceramics, and even a hat bar. We also offer Girls Night Out for adults, corporate team building sessions, and kids’ birthday parties. In the summer, we have arts and crafts camps during June and July, and we offer summer specials like $10 Tuesdays and $15 Wednesdays.

We’re usually an appointment-only studio, so we don’t have regular business hours. But I like to open up, especially in the summer. When the kids are in school, the flow of customers is usually lower. But that gives me time to also do custom orders in painting, but engraving, and paper banners.

Tell us a bit about The Traveling Palette.

We started The Traveling Pallet when I closed my Party Art studio in Pelham. I bought a trailer and turned it into a studio on wheels that I can take to events in the summer, use for neighborhood pop-ups or take to private parties.

What made you want to own an art studio?

Several years ago, I found some door hangers that I really wanted at a local boutique. But they were a little pricey, and I was a stay-at-home mom. So I decided not to spend that kind of money right then because we had just spent about $200 on gluten-free food for my oldest daughter, who had just been diagnosed with Celiac’s disease.

Then I came home and made two similar door hangers and shared them with a neighbor. She showed them to her friends at work, and by the end of the day, she had sold 10 of them for me. After that, I started seeing art as God’s way of providing for our needs. He has also blessed me with something I love to do.

What made you decide Bluff Park would be a good place for your business?

Bluff Park is an artsy community, but what I do is completely different from any of the other artists here. So I was interested in bringing some new and different artistic opportunities to the area. Opening a studio here was a great way to do that.

In addition to working in Bluff Park, you also live here. What makes Bluff Park so special, in your opinion?

We have lived in Bluff Park for almost four years. When we married, my husband and I created a blended family, and we chose the Hoover area because it was kind of an in-between spot from where the two of us had previously lived.

There are so many wonderful things I can say about Bluff Park. I love how the community is close-knit and that everybody we’ve met here is so friendly. We fell in love with our home, and since we live on the Bluff, one of the things we’ve enjoyed most is the amazing view. As an artist, watching the sunsets from the Bluff inspires me. It’s one of my favorite things to do in the spring, summer, and fall.

PARTY ART STUDIO-BLUFF PARK

736 Shades Mountain Plaza, Suite C, Hoover 35226 (205) 253-2984 / www.partyartstudio.net

Bluff Stuff with Kyle Foshee

Letting Go of the Grouch

BY KYLE FOSHEE

It’s true. I am grumpy. Always have been. Probably always will be. BUT.

I’m less grumpy than I have ever been. Believe me.

When we moved into this house in 2016, it was so important to me that the property maintain a neat, physical appearance, including the backyard that no one sees. Of course, everyone knows by now that how we are perceived from the outside holds little to no value and, therefore, has no bearing on my decision to keep my backyard tidy.

I needed it for me. Organization, neatness, control, and a job well done.

At any given time, toys, bikes, sweatshirts, socks, and fallen tree branches could fill a truck bed. If one kid got a popsicle, the whole neighborhood got a popsicle, and the plastic remains of those popsicles decorated my weeds.

All of it had to go immediately upon their placement, and if they weren’t disposed of in a timely manner, Grumpy Gills came to life in all his fury. The only piece that was allowed its time to simmer was the 37 tons of leaves that settle in every Fall. I never bothered with it until the following Spring because I swore I wouldn’t do it more than once a year.

See? Wisdom can still nestle in a young grouch’s noggin.

My point is… I’ve relaxed.

Maybe I’m growing old and tired. Maybe I’m growing apathetic and can’t find much purpose. Maybe I’m even growing lazy.

Maybe it’s all of them combined, and some doctor somewhere could scan my brain and print me out a nice, color-coded pie chart of what’s really going on up there. But I’ll tell you what I think it is.

I’m going to die one day.

Perhaps to the untrained, cheerful heart, this is a pessimistic view. While that description of me may not be altogether inaccurate, the comprehension of this particular veracity is the most freeing and optimistic perspective that has ever materialized in my foolish, fragile mind.

These days, backyard chores are fewer and farther between, taking a back seat to the most important ones that all happen on the trampoline. Number Four wants me to jump with him. I can tell you right now… It’s the worst. It hurts my body, but he loves it, and I can bounce him up into my arms while he laughs uncontrollably until he asks me to do it again.

When he’s done, we lie down and watch the sky. It’s my favorite thing to do. Watching the sky. The tops of the trees meet it, and I think to myself that they could be the same height.

All the while, real “work” awaits me inside.

Unfortunately, my oldest will likely remember one day that the amount of “fairness” that existed between him and the youngest was never equal, and that instead of a stairstep descent, it was more like an inverted exponential slope.

I didn’t do it on purpose, Buddy. Daddy just didn’t know.

Creative Classrooms & Community Artists: Paige Belgaonkar

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS

Meet Bluff Park resident and local art educator Paige Belgaonkar, the creative mind behind Make Art With Heart and a driving force in making art accessible to everyone. An art teacher at Greystone Elementary with 12 years of classroom experience across Australia, India, and Ireland, Belgaonkar brings a joyful, inclusive approach to every project she shares, and on YouTube she extends that mission beyond the classroom by sharing simple, inspiring art ideas for teachers, parents, and young artists everywhere..

In this new series, the Bluff Park Neighborhood Reader is highlighting local artists as they share a project that young creators or anyone can try at home or in the classroom — no fancy supplies required, just a willingness to play, explore, and make something from the heart.

Beautiful, Floral Mother's Day Craft by Make Art With Heart

Step 1 Fold & Prep

Fold a piece of white paper into fourths to create four equal sections.

Step 2 Paint

Paint each section a different color. I used watercolors, but any paint or coloring supplies you have at home will work. Let it dry completely.

Step 4

Cut, Assemble & Finish

Cut out each piece and glue them together to create your bouquet. For a more finished look, assemble everything on cardstock. Optional: seal with a clear sealer or Mod Podge once dry to give you a craft that will last for years!

Simple, meaningful, and perfect for little hands and big.

Step 3 Draw the Pieces

Once dry, draw a vase in one section, leaves in another, and flowers in the remaining two sections.

Send us a photo of your Mother’s Day Floral painting and we will share it in our next issue. Email Heather at bluffwriter@gmail.com

You Can’t Coach Height, But You Can Coach Heart: The Meteoric

Rise of Hoover’s Khloe Ford

BY LOYD MCINTOSH

It’s Tuesday, February 10, and in just a little more than 24 hours, the Hoover Bucs girls basketball team will open the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) playoffs against Oak Mountain. The team’s center, captain, and leader, Khloe Ford, is talking about what the team needs to work on in order to win their sixth consecutive state title.

It would also be Ford’s fourth in a row, an inside straight for one of the state’s best, if not the best, girls high school basketball players in Alabama. The 18-year-old high school senior is confident but, at the same time, humble. She knows the team has a great shot to make history, but is also aware of what they need to work on to reach that summit once again.

“I have a really good feeling that we’re going to win state again,” says Ford. “There is just some stuff that we really do need to focus on. We really need to focus on our defense more and make sure that everybody on the court communicates.

“I feel like we need to start communicating more on defense and offense, making sure people know the plays or know what defense we’re in,” adds Ford, speaking like a ten-year veteran in the WNBA.

In case you’re wondering, the last time Hoover played Oak Mountain, the Bucs won by the score of 74-20, so the Bucs are pretty darn good, and Ford is a major reason why.

At six feet, four inches tall and super-athletic, Khloe Ford is, at the time of this writing, the top-ranked player in Alabama, the 12thranked center in the nation according to the high school recruiting website 247Sports.com, and No. 94 nationally in the SportsCenter NEXT 100.

Ford has backed up the hype with production and championships at Hoover. She helped lead the Bucs to three state titles, including a 32-4 finish this past season, and was named State Tournament MVP as a sophomore. That year, she averaged 13.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, earning first-team All-State honors in Class 7A.

A four-star recruit, Ford was recruited by many major universities, including Alabama, Auburn, Arizona State, Mississippi State, and Clemson, just to name a few. In the end, Ford chose the University of Missouri, an up-and-coming program in the SEC, and a university that said it would accommodate her desire to study nursing instead of an easier major. .

says, she didn’t have a clue, but it didn’t take her long to warm up to the sport.

Still, it’s hard to imagine a scenario in which Ford doesn’t light up the scoreboard at the next level - and maybe beyond. Not bad for a kid who not only didn’t play basketball at all until the seventh grade, but didn’t want to play basketball at all. But, as the saying goes, “you can’t coach height.”

Ford’s first sports love was softball and, despite the fact that she was growing taller than her classmates, had no interest in basketball. However, while attending Simmons Middle School, the seventh-grader was approached by then head coach Keon Williams about trying out for basketball. She said “thanks, but no thanks,” but, according to Ford, Williams hatched a plan to bamboozle her into trying out.

“He got a police officer to stand in front of my bus to make sure I wouldn’t get on the bus so I could go to basketball tryouts,” says Ford. “The next thing I know, my mom comes in with some basketball clothes, and then the rest is history. I made the team.”

While she easily made the squad and began playing right away, Ford readily admits she was far from a complete basketball player. Taller than all of the other girls, the team’s offensive strategy largely consisted of tossing the ball to Ford, over the outstretched arms of their opponents, for easy layups. Beyond that, Ford

“When I first played, I didn’t know what I was doing. I’m just out there putting the ball in the hoop. They told me to just turn around and lay it up,” Ford says. “I remember I made my first basket, and I was like, I was like, ‘okay, this ain’t that bad.’”

By ninth grade, she not only had the hang of the game but also started to excel under Hoover High School Head Coach Krystle Johnson. One of the top basketball coaches in the nation, Johnson has guided Hoover to seven state titles since taking over in 2016. Ford says she has flourished under Johnson’s leadership, crediting her for developing her skill set while being a confidant and mentor through the craziness of the recruiting process.

“She’s helped me a lot with the recruiting process because she has so many connections with college coaches,” says Ford. “And since she played the same position I do, she’s helped me develop my post moves and understand the game at a different level.”

“She’s like a second mom to me. Since I’m with the basketball team so much, she’s really stepped into that role and kind of become the mother of the team,” adds Ford. “I’m very comfortable telling her anything. We joke around a lot, but she’s always there for me.”

Teacher of the Year Finalist

Bluff Park’s Katie Collins Earns Spot Among Top Five Teachers Nationwide

BY HEATHER JONES SKAGGS

Bluff Park Elementary’ own Katie Collins has been selected as one of five finalists for the 2026 National Teacher of the Year award. The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) announced the finalists, celebrating educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their students and the teaching profession.

“We could not be more proud of Katie Collins. Being named a Top 5 National Teacher of the Year finalist is an amazing honor and a true reflection of who she is as an educator,” said Hoover City Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox. “Her passion for empowering students and supporting educators is seen and felt in everything she does.”

The National Teacher of the Year Program, administered by CCSSO with Google for Education as lead

sponsor, selected its finalists from a cohort of 56 State Teachers of the Year. A committee comprised of 15 representatives from educational organizations reviews applications and chooses finalists based on their outstanding achievements and impact.

Collins, who is currently Alabama Teacher of the Year, spoke about her experiences connecting with educators statewide and witnessing public schools’ transformative work. “Being named Alabama Teacher of the Year has been an honor that I will forever carry with me as I have had the opportunity to meet with teachers face to face from all corners of the state. I have seen firsthand the transformational work that is being done in public schools and the heart behind it,” Collins said. “It is an honor to represent educators at the national level and to continue sharing the role educators play in strengthening students, families, and communities each and every day.”

The five finalists will travel to Washington, D.C., to interview with the selection committee. The winner will serve as an ambassador for education throughout the year, advocating for the profession and uplifting teachers nationwide.

Dr. Maddox added, “This recognition reflects the momentum exceptional teachers build every day as they inspire students and support families and one another. We are proud to have Katie represent Hoover City Schools, our community, and state on the national stage as a true example of the impact educators have far beyond their classrooms.”

Since the National Teacher of the Year program began in 1952, Collins is only the seventh educator from Alabama to be named a national finalist. She follows in the footsteps of Tonya Perry, who represented Hoover City Schools as a finalist in 2001.

100 & 101 Days of School

Mardi Gras Parade

Guys Valentine Card Class

Church on the Bluff’s annual Valentine card-making class for men was a big hit. Participants gathered for an evening of creativity, conversation, and a few good laughs as they designed handmade cards for the special people in their lives.

Under the guidance of Angie Barber, the guys tried their hand at stamping, layering, and lettering—many for the first time. The results were impressive: thoughtful, personal Valentine cards ready to be shared, and a room full of men proud of what they created together. The classes are held on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Church on the Bluff, with a snack offered at 6 p.m. All supplies are provided at no cost, but Angie encourages attendees to RSVP.

Derzis Charts Safety, Growth Priorities in First Hoover State of the City

The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce hosted over 300 business, civic, and community leaders for its annual meeting in January and the 2026 State of the City Address by Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis at the Renaissance Hotel at Ross Bridge. The event reinforced the Chamber’s dedication to building strong partnerships among local government, businesses, and community groups.

In his first State of the City Address, Mayor Derzis presented a forward-focused vision emphasizing public safety, economic growth, and collaborative leadership. Speaking to a full house, he emphasized that a secure community is essential for sustainable development and quality life. Since assuming office late last year, the mayor noted efforts to enhance public safety, including funding for more police officers and firefighters, and investing in new vehicles and resources to support first responders.

Economic development was another central theme. Derzis highlighted

efforts to revive key commercial corridors, including the Riverchase Galleria and Patton Creek shopping center, saying Hoover is prepared to work with property owners and developers to position the city as a premier retail and business destination. New retail and dining projects and expanded health care facilities now in the pipeline, he said, signaling confidence in Hoover’s market and the strength of public-private partnerships.

The Chamber also recognized outgoing and incoming board members and introduced its 2026 board of directors and ex-officio members. Chamber President and CEO Nan Baldwin said their leadership, along with support from members, is helping to strengthen Hoover’s business climate and community well-being.

Organizers described the meeting as a chance to reflect on recent accomplishments and reaffirm a shared commitment to continued growth in 2026 and beyond.

Bluff Park Student’s Artwork Selected for State Exhibit

Jack Peach., a student at Bluff Park Elementary, has been selected to represent Hoover in the State Superintendent’s Visual Arts Exhibit, an annual showcase of student artwork from across Alabama.

Jack’s piece was chosen by Hoover City Schools Superintendent Dr. Maddox as one of just 10 works to represent the district. His artwork will be displayed at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery,

Gwin Elementary First-Grader Wins Statewide T-Shirt Contest

A first-grader at Gwin Elementary School has won the inaugural Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Kids Marathon T-Shirt Contest, beating out entries from students across the state.

Luke, a first-grade student, created the winning design that combines the Kids Marathon with the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary. His artwork appears on more than 2,500 race shirts worn during the February marathon.

He learned of the honor during a surprise ceremony in front of his classmates and received $100 for his winning design.

School officials said they are proud to see students showcase their creativity and talents in such a meaningful way.

an honor shared by a select group of students statewide.

For more than 30 years, the State Superintendent’s Visual Arts Exhibit has highlighted the creativity and talent of Alabama’s students. The 2026 show features two divisions: the Elementary Division Exhibit, on display Feb. 2-25, and the Secondary Division Exhibit, on display March 2-27.

Hoover City Schools Names District Spelling Bee Champion

Bumpus Middle School student Madison Howze was named Hoover City Schools District Spelling Bee champion after 16 rounds of competition featuring elementary and middle school winners from across the district.

Harish Ramakrishnan of Trace Crossings Elementary was named runner-up.

Students representing schools from across Hoover showcased their spelling skills, perseverance and poise throughout the event. Madison will now advance to represent Hoover

Hoover Girls Capture Indoor Track State Championship

Hoover’s indoor track program turned in a dominant showing at the 2026 AHSAA Indoor Track State Championships, highlighted by a title on the girls’ side and a runner-up finish for the boys.

The Hoover girls secured the state championship, adding another trophy to the Buccaneers’ storied track and field tradition. The Hoover boys followed with a strong performance of their own, earning state runner-up honors in a competitive field. The dual podium finishes marked a proud moment for Buc Nation.

City Schools at the Jefferson County Spelling Bee.

District Spelling Bee participants included: Madison Howze, Bumpus Middle; Harish Ramakrishnan, Trace Crossings Elementary; Logan Cade, Green Valley Elementary; James Batey, Shades Mountain Elementary; Finley Meadows, Rocky Ridge Elementary; Vian Patel, Brock’s Gap Intermediate; Daniel Anthony, Berry Middle; Savya Sagi, Riverchase Elementary; Sara Omata, Greystone Elementary; Seth Healy, Bluff Park Elementary; Denzel Ngwa, Gwin Elementary; Snigdha Pati, Deer Valley Elementary; and Allie Renta, Simmons Middle.

Elementary Music Educators Shine at AMEA Conference

Elementary music teachers Lisa Latham and Meredith Devore kicked off the Alabama Music Educators Association conference in Birmingham, leading a professional development session for the state’s music teachers. Supported by a demo choir from Shades Mountain and Trace Crossings, the educators demonstrated their teaching methods and shared strategies for growing young choirs with the elementary division.

Hoover City Schools made a strong showing at AMEA 2026, with students and educators representing the district through performances and instructional sessions. Highlights included the Spain Park Percussion Ensemble led by Richard Adams, the Spain Park Flute Ensemble under Drew Ellis, and the Hoover High School Jazz Ensemble, First Edition, directed by Sallie Vines White. Matthew Cicero, Hoover High School Band Director, also participated.

The district’s educators led sessions on instructional practice and developing young musicians, sharing expertise with colleagues from across Alabama. Hoover City Schools continues to inspire, connect, and empower through music education.

Students keep the beat with members of Dancing Drum during an interactive music assembly at Shades Mountain Elementary School. The arts-in-education group led call-and-response rhythms and movement activities to teach teamwork, focus, and creativity.

Dancing Drum Brings Global Rhythm and High-Energy Fun to Hoover City Schools

Dancing Drum brought rhythm, culture, and high-energy fun to Hoover City Schools recently, transforming campuses into vibrant hubs of sound and movement.

The nationally recognized arts-in-education group, known for its interactive drumming and music programs, spent the day leading students through calland-response rhythms, body percussion, and global beats designed to teach teamwork, focus, and creativity. Students didn’t just watch – they became part

of the performance, drumming, clapping, and moving along with the professional teaching artists.

Founded with a mission to make music-making accessible to all children, Dancing Drum blends education and entertainment by introducing students to percussion instruments and musical traditions from around the world. Their school assemblies and workshops support music, social-emotional learning, and cultural awareness.

Calendar and News

BUSINESSES NEWS

New Businesses:

Opening a business in Bluff Park? Let us know!

HOOVER CITY SCHOOLS

DISTRICT NEWS

Hoover City Schools is proud to announce that the district has earned an A on the 2025 Alabama State Report Card, maintaining last year’s record-high score of 95 for the second year in a row. This continued achievement reflects the dedication of our students, teachers, staff, and families and reinforces the district’s commitment to supporting strong academic growth across the district.

Alabama’s Voluntary Pre-K Program: Hoover City Schools First Class Pre-K programs are accepting online pre-registration applications for the 2026-2027 school year. Pre-registration runs through March 18, 2026.

CHURCH EVENTS

Shades Mountain Community Church

April 20-30: Egypt

Join Pastor George and Megan Wright on an 11-day journey through Egypt. Walk where history and faith meet to experience the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Red Sea, Mount Sinai, and more. Register on the church website.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 7 : Arbor Day Celebration Aldridge Gardens. 8:00 - 11:00am.

match his found Anders

The Hoover Beautification Board invites the community to celebrate Arbor Day on Saturday, March 7, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Aldridge Gardens. The free, family-friendly event highlights the importance of trees and environmental stewardship while offering fun and educational activities for residents of all ages.

The Arbor Day celebration will feature a tree giveaway (one tree per household, while supplies last), hands-on activities, and various educational vendors focused on conservation, gardening, and sustainable practices. Children can enjoy crafts and interactive experiences. Attendees can also visit a food truck and the Hoover Public Library’s bookmobile will be on site throughout the morning.

At approximately 8:15 a.m., Hoover Mayor Nick Derzis will issue an official Arbor Day proclamation and cut a ribbon to formally open the event.

Anders was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition that was affecting his immune health and significantly impacting his overall development. His doctors determined his best treatment option was a bone marrow transplant, and luckily Anders found his match and received his transplant. Now Anders is reaching new developmental milestones and is starting to get back to being a normal kid.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

March 7: Alabama Swat Foundation 5.56K Run Brock’s Gap Brewing Company. 5:00pm.

Everyone is welcome to come out and walk, run or ruck this race as we fundraise to send first responders to high-level training specifically for critical incidents. This is a family friendly event with live music and room for kids to play. Runners must be at least 10-years-old to participate. This race starts at sunset and is a particle trail course so a headlamp/flashlight is required. All runners will receive a finisher metal shirt and koozie. This year‘s registration cost is $35 but you can run for free by committing to our new tag.

March 9: Kindness Summit Nonprofit Volunteer Fair

Hoover Public Library. 3:00 - 6:30 pm.

If you find yourself seeking opportunities to give of your time, listen to a panel of experts from local nonprofits that depend on volunteers like you. Potential volunteers can learn about local organizations in a low-pressure, casual environment and organizations can increase public awareness about their missions and find much-needed volunteers. This year’s Kindness Summit is brought to you by a partnership with JustServe.

March 14-15: Birmingham Spring Craft and Vendor Market

Riverchase Galleria

Saturday, March 14 from 11:00am - 8:00pm and Sunday, March 15 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm

Featuring local vendors, seasonal treats, and finds for every occasion; shoppers look for handmade gifts, specialty items, and fresh, seasonal treasures. Spots are limited and filling up quickly! Don’t wait—secure your spot now by visiting: hometownvendormarket.com.

March 17: Hoover Historical Society

Meeting at the Hoover Library. 1 pm. “Increasing visitorship in your Community” By Nathan Anderson, Executive Director of Cullman Parks, Recreation and Sports Tourism.

March 22: Bracket Buster Tailgate

Hoover Public Library. 1:00 - 5:00pm.

Set up your own lawn chair on the Library Plaza to watch the second round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament while enjoying snacks and activities.

April 7: Poetry Matters: A Celebration of Rhyme and Verse

Hoover Public Library. 6:00 - 7:30pm.

For our third year, come be a part of the Magic City Poetry Festival! Read original poetry, recite beloved verse and honor the importance of poetry. Performer registration is required but all are welcome to join our audience.

April 11-12: Patton Creek Fine Arts and Crafts Festival

Patton Creek Mall. 10:00am - 5:00pm.

The venue is indoors at Patton Creek in Hoover next to Dick’s Sporting Goods. Accepting vendors in these categories: crafters, candle makers, jewelry designers, signs and home decor, food trucks, artisans crochet and handmade items, baked goods, face painting, non-profit organizations, and more. To apply, go to the Central Alabama Artist Guild’s website caag.site

April 19: National Library Weeks Peeps Show

Hoover Public Library 1:00 - 5:00pm

Participants of all ages are invited to choose a book—any genre, any reading level—and create a diorama that brings a scene, character, or theme to life using Peeps marshmallows as part of the design. Completed dioramas need to be delivered to the Nonfiction desk April 11-18. All completed dioramas will be displayed in the library from April 19-30. Everyone will have the chance to vote on their favorite community and staff diorama from April 19-24. Winners will be announced Saturday April 25.

April 24: Ladies Night Out, Spring Edition

Brock’s Gap Brewing Company 5:00pm

Grab your girls and get ready to have a great night of shopping, cocktails, food, music and fun!

April 26: Hoover Historical Society Membership Open House

The annual event will be held at the Hale Joseph Home from 2-4 pm The old Stinson place log cabin will also be open. There will be refreshments and music. The public is invited to attend.

“...workouts challenge me to be better than I was the day before.”

“I appreciate the emphasis on our whole selves, not just our bodies!”

“every session feels tailored to our individual needs.”

Christ-centered fitness for the community

767 Shades Mountain Plaza between Benchmark Physical Therapy and Sampson Dentistry

Group fitness classes for men and women of all ages Strength, cardio, metabolic conditioning, athletic training, and more solideogloriafitness.com

@sdgfitness_health

@solideogloriafitness

Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for weekly class schedules

Mon-Thurs: 5am, 6am, 8:30am, 4:15pm Fri: 5am, 6am, 8:30am Sat: 6am, 7am, 8am