🌱 Birmingham/Hoover Among Most Educated Cities + Russell Reward Fund

Welcome back, Hoover. I'm here in your inbox this morning to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High: 95 Low: 69.
• Wednesday: Partly sunny. High: 95 Low: 71.

Here are the top three stories today in Hoover:

1. In a recent WalletHub survey assessing the educational standing of U.S. metropolitan areas, Birmingham/Hoover was highlighted as one of the most educated cities in Alabama, securing the 82nd position nationally. Despite not topping the list within Alabama, which was led by Huntsville (ranking No. 24 nationally), Birmingham/Hoover's ranking reflects its significance as a center of education within the state. Mongomery also made the list, coming in at No. 104. (AL.com)
2. Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama has stated that it will only return donations made to the Carlee Russell reward fund if it is determined that the award is not valid. Carlee Russell claimed she was kidnapped after stopping to check on a toddler on Jul. 13, but she returned home two days later. The organization initially said it would refund the $63,000 in donations, but later decided to wait until the investigation concludes to make a final decision on the funds' use. (ActionNewsJax.com)
3. If you're looking for some local spots to grab breakfast, this list of Birmingham's best breakfasts has you covered. Among the top breakfast spots is Hoover's The Anvil Pub & Grill, a British-style pub with a global twist that anchors the corner of shops in The Village at Lee Branch. Under the guidance of Trinidad and Tobago native Chef Boodram Wilkerson, the chef's fusion of Southern, Indian, and Caribbean cuisines blends into a brunch menu that reinterprets British classics and Southern favorites, indicating the evolving nature of Birmingham's food scene. (AL.com)

Here's to our local sponsor. Check out what they can do for you:

Ready to restore balance to your mind, body, and spirit? Let the skilled therapists at Top Body Contouring recover your natural essence through a lymphatic massage or a facial service, and leave your spa day feeling rejuvenated. Looking to fight those persistent wrinkles or sagging cheekbones? Top Body has more than 15 years of experience in first level aesthetic treatments including laser service and radiofrequency skin care. Visit Top Body here to schedule your free initial consultation.

Click here to get your business featured in this spot.

Today and tomorrow in and around Hoover:

Tuesday, July 25

• Grand Opening And Ribbon Cutting At Physician Care Walk-In Clinic Hoover-North And Hoover-South (10:00 AM)
• Kick Off Kindergarten At Hoover Public Library (10:30 AM)

Wednesday, July 26

• Music At The Museum At Birmingham Museum Of Art, Birmingham (5:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Are you looking for a four-legged best friend? Click the link to view all the adoptable pets in the Hoover area, including Anthony, a handsome and sweet baby domestic short hair who is available now at Kitty Kat Haven And Rescue. (Hoover Patch)
• On Jul. 27 at 10:30 a.m., learn organizational techniques from Kim McBrayer, professional organizer and owner/CEO of Space Cadets, at the Hoover Public Library's Lee Branch. To participate, click here to register or call 205-444-7811 for more information. (Hoover Sun)
• The Hoover Police Department highlighted its community partnership with Benton Nissan, which has helped to support the Hoover-based National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO). (Hoover (AL) Police Department via Facebook)

Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll be in your inbox soon with another update!

— 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.