Episodes

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

    Celebrating Hoover’s Community Spirit with Kim Cripps of Enjoy Hoover Magazine
    May 2 2025

    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

    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 for privacy information.
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    24 mins
  • Hoover High Basketball: A Community Triumph with Coaches Scott Ware and Krystle Johnson

    Hoover High Basketball: A Community Triumph with Coaches Scott Ware and Krystle Johnson
    Mar 28 2025

    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

    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 for privacy information.
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    29 mins
  • Springing Forward: Mayor Brocato on Hoover's Growth, Safety, and Community Spirit

    Springing Forward: Mayor Brocato on Hoover's Growth, Safety, and Community Spirit
    Feb 28 2025

    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

    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 for privacy information.
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    28 mins
  • Enjoy Hoover: Infrastructure Updates, Golf Tournaments, College Programs & More!

    Enjoy Hoover: Infrastructure Updates, Golf Tournaments, College Programs & More!
    Aug 16 2024

    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

    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 for privacy information.
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    6 mins
  • Enjoy Hoover

    Enjoy Hoover
    Aug 9 2024

    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

    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 for privacy information.
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    6 mins
  • Enjoy Hoover: School Prep, Business Coaching, and Summer Events

    Enjoy Hoover: School Prep, Business Coaching, and Summer Events
    Aug 2 2024

    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

    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 for privacy information.
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    7 mins
  • Enjoy Hoover July

    Enjoy Hoover July
    Jul 8 2024
    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 ArmsHosted 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 ...
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    19 mins
  • Enjoy Hoover June

    Enjoy Hoover June
    Jun 3 2024
    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 ArmsHosted 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 TheatreExperience 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 TheatreSing, 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...
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    12 mins
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