🌱 Hoover Schools' Annual Special Olympics + "Fiesta" Celebration

Hi all. I'm here right on time with your fresh copy of the Hoover Patch newsletter, filled with all the things you need to know about what's happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Partly sunny and humid. High: 86 Low: 63.
• Friday: Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 86 Low: 64.

Here are the top three stories today in Hoover:

1. On Tuesday, over 525 students participated in the 18th annual Special Olympics, hailing from the Hoover, Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills, Homewood, and Trussville school systems. Participants—ranging in ages from elementary through high school and up to age 21—competed in track and field events that included a softball and javelin throw, long jump, and distance races. The event took place at Hewitt-Trussville's football stadium, with 15 Hoover City Schools participating, sending around 100 students to the event. (Hoover Sun)
2. Among the 781 schools nationwide that were named "America’s Healthiest Schools" for the 2022-2023 school year, nine schools were in the Hoover City Schools District. The schools earning the designation included: Berry Middle, Bumpus Middle, Deer Valley Elementary, Gwin Elementary, Riverchase Elementary, Rocky Ridge Elementary, Shades Mountain Elementary, and South Shades Crest Elementary. The recognition is awarded each year by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a leading children’s health organization, and remains one of the country’s longest-running nationwide recognition programs honoring schools for achievements in supporting students' health. (Hoover City Schools)
3. Hispanic Heritage Month is well underway, and a major event is coming up this weekend in nearby Birmingham to continue the festivities. The annual "Fiesta"—Alabama’s largest Hispanic celebration—will take place at Linn Park on Sep. 30. The event offers activities celebrating different cultures, food, music, health and wellness, and more to educate the public about the many different Hispanic countries and cultures. Tickets are available online. (Alabama News Center)

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Today and tomorrow in and around Hoover:

Thursday, September 28

• Word Bracelets: Team Spirit At Hoover Public Library (10:00 AM)

Friday, September 29

• Cha House Live Local Music At Gaia Florals, Birmingham (6:00 PM)

From our partner:

Do you know an outstanding community leader in Hoover? Nominate them here for a chance to be featured on Patch!

From my notebook:

• The annual "Antiques at the Gardens" is less than a week away! Happening Sep. 29 through Oct. 1 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, this event will feature one-of-a-kind antiques, internationally acclaimed guest speakers, special book signings, and more. Get your tickets today. (Birmingham Botanical Gardens via Facebook)
• Happening up the road at Rickwood Caverns State Park on Saturday, Sep. 30, check out the 5th annual "Cars at the Cave" event. This family-friendly affair includes food vendors, music, prizes, and more. General admission is $3 at the gate. (Alabama State Parks via Instagram)
• On Oct. 5, the Birmingham Museum of Art will host an Indian classical music concert, bringing together three outstanding, internationally-renowned performers to town. The event is free, but advance registration is required. (Birmingham Museum of Art via Facebook)

You're all caught up for today. I'll see you soon!

— Miranda Fraraccio

About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. She is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she earned degrees in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or practicing film photography.