Celebrate Hoover Day shows off city pride

On Saturday, April 27, thousands of locals flocked to Veterans Park on Valleydale Road for the 2019 Celebrate Hoover Day event. What awaited them was food, games, rides and most importantly, a slice of giant apple pie. 

Right at 11 a.m., the Veterans Memorial Paver Dedication Ceremony began with a welcome from Mayor Frank Brocato, an invocation from pastor and retired Army Ranger Jerry McClain, a presentation of colors by Hoover High School's ROTC and the national anthem sung by Spain Park junior Hannah Bishop. 

After saying the pledge of allegiance, led by Command Sgt. Maj. William Allen, Brig. Gen. Paul Pocopanni said a few words and led the Veteran's Paver Recognition. Following the recognition, Capt. Daniel Porris, U.S. Army, introduced several future soldiers of the U.S. Army. The crowd applauded as Porris went down the line introducing each man and stating his position. 

To close the ceremony, Brian Bowman played "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes, and the Howlin' Mad Smith Detachment — Marine Corps League presented a reenactment of the famous Iwo Jima flag-raising photo. 

Next, under the pavilion next door, the World's Largest Apple Pie was lowered using a forklift and placed for the mayor to cut and serve. The line for pie and ice cream was well outside of the pavilion. 

For the rest of the afternoon, attendees could enjoy food from the vendors, live entertainment on the stage and a plethora of actives and games, including pony riding and carnival rides.