lizziebowen, Author at Shelby County Reporter https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/author/lizziebowen/ Newspapers, Schools, Breaking News, Sports, Weather, Alabama, Pelham, Alabaster, Calera, Hoover, Birmingham Fri, 14 Jul 2023 18:28:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Full Moon Bar-B-Que announces launch of fourth annual giveback program https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/12/full-moon-bar-b-que-announces-launch-of-fourth-annual-giveback-program/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:02:49 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=564104

Southern Bar-B-Que joins, Full Moon BBQ, announced that nominations for a child to receive a ‘Backpack Blessings’ are open today. ‘Backpack Blessings’ is an initiative that provides food, supplies and hope to the children of Alabama and Mississippi through anonymous nominations.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

SHELBY COUNTY – Southern Bar-B-Que joins, Full Moon BBQ, announced that nominations for a child to receive a ‘Backpack Blessings’ are open today. ‘Backpack Blessings’ is an initiative that provides food, supplies and hope to the children of Alabama and Mississippi through anonymous nominations.

During this fourth year of the campaign, Full Moon BBQ is giving out more backpacks than ever before. 150 selected recipients and will receive a Nike backpack filled with a Full Moon BBQ gift card, a Walmart gift card, and an array of school supplies, totaling a value of $200.

To nominate a deserving child in the state of Alabama or Mississippi, those interested can visit the online entry form (Full Moon BBQ Backpack Blessings 2023 Application) and complete the nomination with detailed and specific information explaining why your nominee is deserving of a ‘Backpack Blessing.’

Full Moon BBQ will be accepting nominations through the online nomination form today, July 6, through Sunday, July 16. Winners will pick up their backpack at the Full Moon BBQ location that they select through the nomination form.

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The Beer Hog to host open mic comedy night https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/11/the-beer-hog-to-host-open-mic-comedy-night/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 18:14:42 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=564050

Comedy group Real Funny will host an open mic comedy night at The Beer Hog for comedians of walks of life or for those simply trying to get out and try something new.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Comedy group Real Funny will host an open mic comedy night at The Beer Hog for comedians of walks of life or for those simply trying to get out and try something new.

The mic will be held at The Beer Hog at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11. Sign ups to perform at the mic are at 7 p.m.

The group Real Funny consists of a plethora of comedians coming together to bring laughs to the Birmingham and Shelby County area. Members include: Tyler Cooper, Paige McBride, Chase Mote and Jon McLernon.

“We’ve been wanting more mics, in the Birmingham area for a while,” Mote said. “After waiting on somebody else to take up the burden, I realized I should take some responsibility for the growth of the scene and start one myself. Earlier this year, I approached Jon about being my cohost, we looked around at a few places downtown and were in some conversations with venues that didn’t work out. Then, Paige and Tyler asked us to join the Real Funny team and combine our efforts to bring more opportunities to comics and awareness to the Birmingham comedy scene. Tyler had talked to a couple of places and Beer Hog was not only open to the idea but showed interest and excitement.”

Mote said that all are welcome at the open mic night with Beer Hog and to come prepared to laugh and have a good time.

“Anybody can be a part of this open mic,” Mote said. “The sign-up list is open to anybody that wants to perform. All interpretations of comedy are welcome to be showcased to the audience as long as you are open to the audience responding to it. Anybody can be a part of the audience as well. We don’t police comics materials so there may be material that some parents find inappropriate for young ears. For adults, if you hear something you don’t like, your silence and looks of concern are excellent feedback for the comic. If you hear something you do like, laughter is appreciated.”

Open mic nights serve as an opportunity for both experienced and unexperienced comedians to get together, workshop material and gain valuable experience.

“Open mics are where comedians go to practice, try material, write, breakdown, etc.,” Mote said. “Every stand-up comic you’ve heard of started at an open mic. They then spent years at more open mics honing their craft before anyone ever cared they did comedy. Come with an open mind. You can expect to see comics at all stages of their comedic journey —first timers, hobbyist, local killers, touring professionals— perform material about everything from the most mundane to the most wild.”

As for how often this open mic night will be held or where aspiring comedians can expect comedians to return to The Beer Hog, conversations are still in the works about how frequently the open mic night will be held.

“We are looking to see the community response to the first mic in order to know for sure how often we will be able to run it,” Mote said. “We are expecting once a month at the very least, but with support from the community and local comics we would like to get it to every week.

Mote said that the Shelby County area, and specifically Pelham, is a great place to hold an comedy open mic night.

“We’ve seen the growth of entertainment in Shelby County and saw The Beer Hog as having a hand in that,” Mote said. “They are in a great location, Campus 124, that has a potential for growth. Since early conversations Beer Hog management has been a joy to work with. They were excited about the idea and we were quickly able to find a date to kick it off. Sometimes venues show hesitancy but we had the opposite response from The Beer Hog. Their excitement and openness let us know this would be a good fit.”

Real Funny can be found on Instagram at Reallfunnybham. Another mic produced by Real Funny is is at True Story Brewing every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

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Pelham community rallies together for Pelham officer hit by drunk driver https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/10/pelham-community-rallies-together-for-pelham-officer-hit-by-drunk-driver/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:51:14 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563997

Many in the community including the Pelham Walmart, the Birmingham Bulls and public figure Noah Galloway have come together to rally for a Pelham police officer who was hit by a drunk driver. Funds have been raised via GoFundMe.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Many in the community including the Pelham Walmart, the Birmingham Bulls and public figure Noah Galloway have come together to rally for a Pelham police officer who was hit by a drunk driver. Funds have been raised via GoFundMe.

Public figure Noah Galloway took to Facebook to speak about his experience with officer Elizabeth Minter and what a bright, wonderful person she is. Galloway is currently using his Facebook platform to call others into action and donate to assist with Minter’s medical bills.

“Calling on my amazing social media community,” Galloway said. “I have an urgent request that I hope you can help with. It’s about my very close friend, Elizabeth, whom I’ve known for years. She’s the little sister of my dear friend Justin, with whom I served in Iraq.”

Galloway has been featured on Men’s Health magazine and currently has 146,000 followers on Facebook. He has used this extensive following to tell Minter’s story.

“Elizabeth has been through so much, facing struggles and hardships that would break most people,” Galloway said. “But she’s proven time and again that she’s made of steel, rising stronger each time. Recently, she accomplished a major milestone by becoming a Pelham Police Officer, a testament to her bravery and dedication.”

Galloway said that the line of work police officers are in is often one that comes with inevitable risks. Minter made the posts bringing light to Minter’s grave situation on Sunday, July 1.

“Unfortunately, as we all know, police officers face inherent risks in their line of duty,” Galloway said. “While directing traffic following a horrific head-on collision caused by a drunk driver on the interstate, Elizabeth was struck by yet another drunk driver. She’s currently in the ICU at UAB, fighting for her life.”

Minter is a mother of three, and Galloway said in the Facebook post that these three children rely on Minter. Her commitment to her children has been reiterated constantly by those who knew her.

“A GoFundMe account has been created to help ease the financial burden her family is facing during this challenging time,” Galloway said. “You can find the link to the GoFundMe campaign in the comments below. Your donations, no matter how big or small, will make a tremendous difference in Elizabeth’s recovery and in providing for her children’s well-being.”

Galloway said that is those reading his Facebook post are unable to contribute financially, he hopes that they will pray for Minter and her family.

“If you’re unable to contribute financially, I ask that you keep Elizabeth and her family in your thoughts and prayers,” Galloway said. “Your positive energy and support mean the world to them. Let’s come together as a community, showing our love and compassion, and remind Elizabeth and her children that they’re not alone in this battle. I’m incredibly grateful for each and every one of you who can lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being a part of this journey with Elizabeth and her family. Together, we can make a difference.

In response to the love and support that the family received, they released this statement to the public about the love and support that was given to them in this time of struggle.

“We are grateful Elizabeth is here with us after what happened to her on July 1,” the family said. “Not only did it impact her life greatly, but it also impacted her family, friends, and her fellow first responders, who she considers to be brothers and sisters.”

Minter’s family said Elizabeth’s injuries are severe, but they are hopeful she will heal with rest, physical therapy and a lot of hard work. They said she has a long road ahead of her, but she is a fighter.

“Elizabeth and our entire family are deeply humbled by the outpouring of support and well-wishes that have been sent from people all over the country,” the family of Minter said.

Minter’s family said the financial contributions are immensely appreciated and will ensure that her children are taken care of while she is recovering.

“We want to thank the Pelham Police Department for all of its support in navigating this extremely difficult time,” they said.

Additionally, Walmart Super Center in Pelham has set up a table at the entrance of Walmart for citizens to write notes and well wishes to Minter and her family. The Pelham Police Department thanked Walmart via Facebook for their tribute to Officer Minter.

The local hockey team Birmingham Bulls raffled off an autographed Stefan Brucato, game-worn jersey with 100 percent of the proceeds to be donated to Officer Minter’s medical fund

Many local organizations have shown an outpour of love and support for Minter. The community has surrounded Minter and embraced her family in this time of tribulation, showing that there is joy and hope for those suffering.

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Evangel students win U.S. Congressional Gold Medal https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/10/evangel-students-win-u-s-congressional-gold-medal/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:24:20 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563994

Hoover residents and Evangel Christian School students James and Amelia DeLano have won the U.S. Congress’ Congressional Gold Medal at the 2023 Gold Medal Summit.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

ALABASTER – Hoover residents and Evangel Christian School students James and Amelia DeLano have won the U.S. Congress’ Congressional Gold Medal at the 2023 Gold Medal Summit.

“I was shocked,” Amelia said. “I knew that it would be happening as I had submitted all of my work for the award a few months prior, but I was still shocked and honored. For the Congressional Award Gold Medal, you are required to have at a minimum of 200 hours personal development, 200 hours physical fitness, 400 hours public service and a five-day four-night expedition/exploration. I had 305 hours of personal development, 1,321 hours of physical fitness, 1,780 hours of public service and completed a seven day and six-night expedition.”

Amelia said that awards like this help to give back to local communities, and she has done a variety of community service work in order to aid in the effort to give back.

“I feel others should go out in their community and help,” Amelia said. “I volunteered at the Hoover Public Library and Special equestrians. I worked at 280 Animal Medical Center Westover. I earned all my physical fitness hours at Mountain Brook Gymnastics. I am a volunteer puppy raiser for Canine Companions, the largest service dog organization in the country. I met many amazing people through my journey and have helped just as many.

I am a certified therapy dog team member and volunteered at the Hoover Public Library’s Sensory Story time. I earned over 1,000 hours from being a volunteer puppy raiser for Canine Companions. With Canine Companions, I raised a future service dog puppy from 8 weeks old until she was 18 months. I also helped organize DogFest Alabama, Canine Companions fundraiser for Alabama.”

Amelia has big plans for the future and sees herself progressing In her career in the next five years.

“I plan to be a veterinarian,” Amelia said. “I am hoping to get into Mississippi State’s early entry vet program, which would save me a seat in their vet school after I compete undergrad.”

Victoria DeLano said that James and Amelia were the only two residents from Alabama to receive this award.

“I was at a gymnastics meet when I got the email I would be receiving the award in June 2023,” DeLano said. “I told my teammates, most of who did not know I was completing this award or even what the award is. I texted a screenshot to my parents while I was behind stage at awards. They were freaking out. I also texted a picture to my best friend, who was just as excited as I was.”

This is the U.S. Congress’ highest honor bestowed to young people for public service work, personal development, physical fitness and an expedition/exploration project completed during a certain period of time.

“You have to put the effort in,” Amelia said. “Nothing in life comes easy, especially this award. I had to get out of my comfort zone and email dozens of people asking for them to zoom with me to give me advice for personal development. One of the board members for the Congressional Award is a dean at Mississippi State, so I emailed her in hopes of meeting her at the three-day day summit. Once at the summit, I went up to complete strangers who turned out to be very similar to me and we all became fast friends.”

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Man drowns at Oak Mountain State Park https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/05/man-drowns-at-oak-mountain-state-park/ Wed, 05 Jul 2023 17:37:08 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563889

Jeremy Bartalez, 21, was swimming at Oak Mountain State Park beach when he began struggling and drowned.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Jeremy Bartalez, 21, was swimming with his girlfriend at an Oak Mountain State Park beach when he began struggling and drowned.

Shelby County Coroner Lina Evans said that Bartalez was transported to Shelby Medical Center alive, but later died from the effects of being submerged in the water.

“Both him and his girlfriend had to be rescued,” Evans said. “He was under for about 30 minutes before they found him.”

Evans said the Pelham Dive Team found him submerged under the water, and the girlfriend of Bartalez survived after being rescued.

Bartalez suffered from too much fluid in his lungs as well as an anoxic brain injury.

Evans said Bartalez was pronounced dead at 11:44 p.m. on July 3. Bartalez came into the hospital around 12:45 in the afternoon.

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Helena holds firework display to celebrate Fourth of July https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/05/helena-holds-firework-display-to-celebrate-fourth-of-july/ Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:49:01 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563874

Helena recently held a large, extravagant fireworks display to celebrate the Fourth of July on Tuesday, July 3.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

HELENA – Helena recently held a large, extravagant fireworks display to celebrate the Fourth of July on Monday, July 3.

Helena City Councilmember Laura Joseph said that the rain did not stop anyone present from celebrating. Even through the rain, those in attendance came out and danced to the music playing and enjoyed the fireworks display.

“One of the things that got me, and I really thought was surprising was, it started raining, and everyone was in their cars,” Joseph said. “But, once the music started again, and the storm had passed through, everyone came back.”

Joseph said she admired how everyone gathered in different areas around Helena this year in order to get the best view of the fireworks.

“I loved the setup this year,” Joseph said. “We had people in the food court area, next to The Depot and The Caboose. Then, vendors on second, and the music and treats at the amphitheater. It made a nice little triangle for people to walk in between. Depending on what you needed to do or your family’s needs, there was something for everybody.”

Joseph said that everyone in attendance seemed to be enjoying the event and having a great time and that events like this often serve as a wonderful source of community for residents.

“I think everybody had a big time,” Joseph said. “We had people out dancing and just enjoying the fireworks with their friends and family. It’s great. I love the way our community comes together to celebrate this holiday.”

There were many fireworks strewn across in the sky with a variety of colors and shapes, some larger than others and some more subtle, but the show was met with cheers and applause by those in attendance.

“I loved the show this year,” Joseph said. “Every year, it gets better and better.”

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Calera holds extravagant fireworks display, First Friday event https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/03/calera-holds-extravagant-fireworks-display-first-friday-event/ Mon, 03 Jul 2023 17:15:19 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563694

It was a large, extravagant Fourth of July celebration with a spectacular firework display in Calera for the community to enjoy on June 30.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

CALERA – It was a large, extravagant Fourth of July celebration with a spectacular firework display in Calera for the community to enjoy on June 30.

“Friday night was our big July Fourth kickoff event,” Calera Main Street Communications Director Jackie Batson said. “It’s always the largest of our First Friday festival season, and this year did not disappoint. Despite traffic and the heat, we had record crowds and saw people staking out their spot with chairs early. We had more food trucks this year which helped with the wait times and a really great band that played right up until the fireworks were about to start.”

There were several food trucks present at the event including:

-Gumbo to Geuax

-Nawlins Style Po’Boys LLC

-Battle Axe’s Feast

-Chubbfathers

-Krazy Good BBQ/Catering

-Moe and Moore’s BBQ

-Smoke House Grill Al

-The Smith Station

-Wasabi Juan’s

-Icee Junkie

-Summer Snow Pelham

-Pizza Hut Calera

“These events are so important to our community for several reasons,” Batson said. “Even if people know nothing about the plans for downtown revitalization or have never heard of Calera Main Street, they can come out and enjoy events like these and see what Calera has to offer. The main street tent had many of our board members answering questions about the plans for the Calera Courtyard. Our downtown merchants were open showing off what they have to offer while folks cooled off in the air conditioning and our first responders were with us too. The police department had their Explorer Program on display and the fire department had first aid, a misting tent and plenty of free water.”

Vendors began lining up at 5 p.m., and the fireworks display began shortly after dark to entertain those in attendance and celebrate the Fourth of July.

“I’m really proud of our city,” Batson said. “Our population keeps growing, but we still have the heart of a small town and will continue to provide community events and entertainment for our residents and visitors.”

Batson said this is the third year that fireworks have been displayed downtown.

“It gets bigger and better every year,” Batson said. “I watched the show from the Calera Courtyard, but I’ve heard from families that parked and watched from several blocks away that still had a good view and enjoyed the show. This year, although it was hot, we lucked out with the weather. We had perfectly clear skies for all the colorful fireworks. Last year, we had to rush to beat the rain and it started pouring just as the show wrapped up.”

Calera Main Street has spent the summer hosting First Friday events for the community with a variety of different vendors, events and entertainment to enjoy.

“We have just one more First Friday for this year,” Batson said. “It will be August 4 and will feature our Meet the Eagles community pep rally, presented by Central State Bank. The Calera Courtyard is set to be under construction at that time, so we’re holding it at Eagle Park’s new track and field stadium. We’ll still have food trucks, vendors and a DJ, plus a health fair this year, all in the parking lot as you enter the stadium.”

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Helena’s Sydney Aldrich earns Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship at UA https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/07/03/helenas-sydney-aldrich-earns-hollings-undergraduate-scholarship-at-ua/ Mon, 03 Jul 2023 15:11:48 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563683

Syndey Aldrich of Helena has earned the Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship at the University of Alabama.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN | Staff Writer

HELENA – Syndey Aldrich of Helena has earned the Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship at the University of Alabama.

“The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship application had several sections and requirements,” Aldrich said. “Some of these were GPA, resume or essay based. Since the start of my freshman year at the University of Alabama (UA), maintaining my GPA has been a priority. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in environmental pollution remediation and this scholarship presents the perfect opportunity to explore a large part of that field.”

The Hollings Scholarship Program provides successful undergraduate applicants with awards that include academic assistance up to $9,500 per year for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid internship at a NOAA facility during the summer.

Since the program’s inception in 2005, 41 UA students have received scholarships since the program’s inception in 2005.

“I began working towards my eligibility from fairly early on,” Aldrich said. “The essay portion of the application allowed me to communicate my passion for this line of work and provide insight on activities I’ve experienced both throughout my life and at UA that shaped my career choice and desire to participate in their program. I was also able to supplement my resume by elaborating on items of applicable experience like my participation in undergraduate research in water treatment technology.”

Aldrich is a Randall Research Scholar and UA Honors College student majoring in chemical engineering. She is conducting undergraduate research in Dr. Amanda Koh’s lab on novel surfactants for high internal phase emulsion polymer foams as water treatment technology. This summer, Aldrich is working as an intern for the Alabama Power Environmental Affairs Compliance Studies Group.

“I consider my number one motivation to be developing and using my skillset to advance the science and practices that will help preserve the beauty of our planet and ensure future generations have the chance to enjoy it,” Aldrich said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up traveling across the United States to see many national and state parks, and I want to help make sure people can still enjoy nature as I have without the fear of pollution ruining their experience.”

Aldrich is a member of the UA American Institute of Chemical Engineers and UA Forest Stewards Guild and was recently named an Outstanding Sophomore in the Randall Research Scholars Program. Additionally, she participates in Randall Research Scholars intramural sports and the UA fencing club.

“When I was younger I definitely did not picture myself in this position,” Aldrich said. “I often changed my mind on what I wanted my future to look like. However, I always knew I had a love for the sciences.”

Aldrich has always had very strong aspirations and dreams since she was a young child, and said her dreams weren’t always specifically to go into science.

“The earliest I remember, I wanted to be a veterinarian,” Aldrich said. “I changed my mind briefly to marine biology, then botany, and stuck with phytopathology for a couple years—the study of plant diseases. I finally landed on chemical engineering in high school when I was exposed to higher level chemistry.”

The UA Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships assists students in the pursuit of national and international awards including the Hollings, Goldwater, Rhodes and Boren, among others. Students interested in applying for awards that require an institutional endorsement can learn more on the External Scholarships and Fellowships website.

Aldrich also shared some about where she sees herself in five year’s time after receiving this scholarship.

“In five years, I see myself completing my degree in chemical engineering and moving on to work in research and development for treating water, or other environmental areas, of various pollutants,” Aldrich said. “I’m still exploring what this might look like for me as a specific job, but I’m currently working in as an intern for the Alabama Power Environmental Affairs Compliance Studies Group to learn how this type of work looks in industry. There is an internship opportunity with NOAA as part of the Hollings Scholarship that I will be able to partake in next summer to explore the federal side of this work area as well.”

Aldrich has many people to thank as she gains success and moves forward in her journey, but her family has remained number one.

“My family has always been incredibly supportive of my academic endeavors and has always been there to cheer me on,” Aldrich said. “They were all so happy for me and made sure I knew how proud they are of me. I’ve made some really great friends at UA, and they too were very excited for me. I feel very blessed to be surrounded by such great people who make me feel so loved.”

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Hoover announces Riverwalk Village development https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/06/30/hoover-announces-riverwalk-village-development-2/ Fri, 30 Jun 2023 19:50:46 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563532

An upcoming development will soon bring innovative healthcare to the city of Hoover.

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FROM STAFF REPORTS

 HOOVER – An upcoming development will soon bring innovative healthcare to the city of Hoover.

The city of Hoover proudly joins with Regions Bank and Healthcare Resources to announce the upcoming development of Riverwalk Village, which will be the first phase of bringing new forms of innovative health care to the city. This new, mixed-use community will sit in the heart of Hoover in the Riverchase area and will focus on health and wellness by including medical offices, walking trails and green spaces, as well as housing and retail areas.

“The city of Hoover is excited to unveil this project,” Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato said. “It will be a significant development for the metro area. Riverchase is a beautiful, Class A office park which has been an important part of our city’s development. As the global economy changes, it is smart planning to reimagine what these areas can become. Riverwalk Village’s combination of wellness, business, residential and clinical care will help propel Hoover into our next chapter.”

“Providing high quality access to health care is a defining metric in a city’s mission to building and sustaining a high quality of life for its residents and visitors,” Hoover City Council President John Lyda said. “Riverwalk Village will be a transformative project for the Riverchase area of Hoover that will offer additional state of the art access to care and serve as a catalyst for commercial and residential investment through the creation of Hoover’s first health and wellness centered development.”

The new development will be located on a 90-acre tract near Riverchase Parkway that includes 450,000 square feet of existing corporate offices. It will include the Riverwalk Health & Wellness Center, which will offer a wide range of healthcare services for all stages of life, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Development company Healthcare Resources is under contract to purchase the site.

The project was facilitated by the Hoover Health Care Authority, which was established by the city of Hoover in 2021. The Authority’s vision is to create, develop and promote a forward looking innovative medical district within the city in which healthcare providers, health research companies and clinical educators can thrive with knowledgeable and motivated partnerships.

Expanding high quality clinical opportunities for area residents is a high priority within that vision. The Authority anticipates some additional exciting announcements in the coming weeks about major initiatives to complement the Riverwalk Village project.

“Hoover needs enhanced healthcare opportunities to keep pace with our continued growth,” Hoover Health Care Authority Chair Alan Paquette said. “The Hoover Health Care Authority is excited to have great partners as we expand the availability of innovative wellness, diagnostic, treatment and restorative services for our residents and visitors. This unique campus will elevate the quality of life across our city and neighboring communities.”

The project represents an expansion and re-imagining of Regions Bank’s north and south buildings. Regions, one of the largest employers in Shelby County, will maintain a significant presence in the existing and new development.

“We’re proud to build on our long-term commitment to Hoover while helping strengthen the community by supporting these additional services and public greenspaces,” said Brett Couch, head of Regions corporate real estate and procurement. “Regions Bank and our associates will continue to have a major presence throughout Hoover, both in Riverchase and our nearby branch locations. And we’re pleased our associates will be among the beneficiaries of the new wellness development and other amenities in Riverchase.”

Regions Bank will also continue to own and manage its modern Riverchase Operations Center, located a short distance away from the Riverwalk Village site.

While health and wellness will be a prime focus at Riverwalk Village, the development also will include a central greenspace with a variety of other amenities in a park-like setting to enhance the quality of life in Hoover and surrounding areas. The plans also call for community spaces and working with the city of Hoover to be part of creating miles of trails to improve walkability and connectivity, linking the northern and southern parts of Hoover.

“We are excited about Riverwalk Village, what it will offer to current Hoover residents and the potential for what it can become,” Christy Roddy of Healthcare Resources said. “The future of healthcare is focused on integrating prevention and wellness as part of overall patient care. This site is uniquely positioned to be able to bring those aspects to the community. We feel honored to be a part of this incredible opportunity.”

The proximity of the Riverchase property to existing research, biotechnology and life sciences companies reinforces the chosen location for this health-focused development and has the potential to attract not only specialty medical groups but also additional life sciences and biotech companies to the area.

The development team includes Healthcare Resources in conjunction with Corporate Realty and Home Communities Company as well as Brasfield & Gorrie, Goodwyn Mills Cawood and Earl Swensson Associates.

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Wok On In opens in Pelham https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/2023/06/27/wok-on-in-opens-in-pelham/ Tue, 27 Jun 2023 23:42:08 +0000 https://www.shelbycountyreporter.com/?p=563220

Wok On In restaurant has opened in Pelham and is serving tasty meals to the community.

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By LIZZIE BOWEN| Staff Writer

PELHAM – Wok On In restaurant has opened in Pelham and is serving tasty meals to the community.

Owner Robert Moy offers truly innovative meals, and there is something for everyone at Wok on It, whether you’re looking for a hamburger, hotdog or more traditional Chinese food, Wok On In has it all.

“We have a lot of traditional Chinese food,” Moy said. “Having moved from California, there are some things you might not find on a typical Chinese menu. I also have hamburgers, hotdogs and crispy pork tacos.”

Moy encouraged people to try new things on the menu, the current menu offers a teriyaki avocado burger, but customers can get the stripped-down version of the burger as well.

Moy opened around a-month-and-a-half ago. He came to Shelby County from California originally for a job, but has been happy to see how Alabama is and to serve the community of Pelham as well as the Shelby County area and grow his customer base.

“That is what brought me out here,” Moy said. “But, even before we came out here, I found that my wife cooked so well. These odd ball dishes that we make in California, I always thought they tasted good. We have something called beef-stew-noodle. Even though I have seen it in other Chinese places out here, when I ordered it, it was nothing like what I was accustomed to in California. Our meat and broth are more towards the California-style.”

Moy said that people don’t seem to recognize the broth usually, but that it is delicious, and he encouraged everyone to give it a try. Moy’s wife, wife’s mother and wife’s father all help out in the kitchen.

The broth comes chalked full of cilantro, offering a savory taste and the noodles are delicate and packed with flavor.

“My passion is more of the other side dishes,” Moy said. “In L.A. there are some places where all they do is sell noodles.”

Moy’s and his wife would often go different places in L.A. and look at some of their favorite restaurants. They would then go home and do their best to replicate the meals that they had seen. Moy said his wife replicated dishes that were very close to the originals that they were eating in restaurants.

“People who have tried our food have been very welcoming to us,” Moy said. “They liked it.”

Wok on In is located in Pelham Plaza near Mi Puebla at the address 2018 Pelham Parkway, 35124.

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