🌱 Ongoing Debates In State Libraries + New Alabama Power Scam

Good morning, everybody! It's me, Miranda Fraraccio, your host of the Hoover Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with all the most important things happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 88 Low: 59.
• Sunday: Partly sunny and warm. High: 89 Low: 64.

Here are the top three stories in Hoover today:

1. Following ongoing debates over censorship and book removals in public libraries—including Rep. Susan Dubose (R-Hoover)'s call for the Alabama Public Library Service (ALPS) to sever ties with the American Library Association (ALA)—Nancy Pack, director of the APLS, sent a letter to Gov. Kay Ivey this week, addressing the issue. Pack's letter stated that severing ties with the ALA could lead to “negative repercussions,” and that doing so would be a "disservice to the principles of intellectual freedom, education, and democratic discourse that our society holds dear." It is unclear whether the APLS will sever ties with the ALA. (Alabama Political Reporter)
2. On Wednesday, six federal lawsuits were filed against state officials alleging that Alabama discriminates against children with disabilities. The suits claimed officials were violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), stating that children are being segregated in on-site “schools” at residential treatment facilities and are not given the same educational opportunities as their non-disabled peers. The lawsuits are seeking financial compensation for the emotional, educational and social damages suffered due to the alleged discrimination. (Alabama Political Reporter)
3. A new online scam on the rise across the state, misdirecting some Alabama Power customers to fake websites or 800 numbers in hope of taking their money. After clicking these fraudulent sites, customers trying to pay their bill over the phone are calling the corresponding fake 1-800 numbers and disclosing their personal information, falling victim to the scam. Remember, if you wish to pay an Alabama Power bill, use only the company’s residential customer service number: 1-800-245-2244 or access your account online at the company’s official website. (Alabama News Center)

Big love to our local sponsor. We couldn’t keep the community informed without 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 Hoover:

Saturday, September 23

• Community Shred Day At Hoover Library Parking Lot (9:00 AM)
• Aww Shucks Fall Festival At Cahaba Brewing Co. (12:00 PM)

Sunday, September 24

• Corinne Bailey Rae At Jemison Concert Hall (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Hoover Library's "Food For Fines" campaign is a food drive, helping those less fortunate have food to eat this season. This year, some of the donations will remain at the Library to help stock their new community pantry. Consider donating today—the deadline to give is Sept.30th. (City of Hoover via Facebook)
• Mark your calendars for upcoming Fall fun: The "Hay Hoover" event returns on Oct. 14, featuring food trucks, petting zoos, hay rides, and lots more family fun. Attendees are encouraged to wear a costume to this free event, which will take place in Veterans Park. (City of Hoover via Facebook)
• Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an outdoor film screening of "Ferdinand" next Friday at the Spain Park High School stadium. On Sep. 29, stop by for a free evening of movies, food trucks, and authentic Hispanic candies. The film will screen in Spanish with English subtitles, with activities for kids beginning at 6:30 p.m. (Hoover, Alabama - Parks & Recreation via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Get Delighted Every Week (September 26)
• Add your event

Thanks for following along and staying informed. See you all soon for 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.