Meet Hayward Alexander, He has lived in this community for 20 years. He worked in the Springfield School District for 11 years as an educational assistant. His love for sports has motivated him to coach just about every sport you can think of with Willamalane and Kidsports for 13+ years. He spent a few years working with another local community member Keith Lewis at his food cart Once Famous Grill. Soon after he went back to where he loved in the Springfield school district as an educational assistant in a behavioral program. He has since been awarded the Ace Award and started his own business Hayward’s Kitchen.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
We have a blended family. It is me, my wife and our 5 kids. We have 3 girls and 2 boys, they play travel basketball. My Wife and I have been together for 10 years, I proposed to her after two years.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have always loved working in the community and helping kids. It is really fulfilling. Thanks to the food truck I can really flourish and help in my own way and be apart of the community. I would like to make a difference. I am excited because things always seem to work out.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Once Famous Grill, Hot Mama’s Wings, ChaCha’s Hawaiian Grill.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived here since I was 9 years old.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Andre Royal most recently. I reached out to him and we got the chance to meet up. He is in his 4th year of running his Suddenly Sleepy 5k walk. I have learned some things from him and he is a nice person.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
California to visit family. I haven’t seen them in a while and they haven’t met my baby.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Gladiator, Babe, The Walking Dead, Martin, In Living Color
Q: What advice would you give to people?
If you have been thinking about doing something, business wise, do it. I really enjoy cooking and wish I started 10 years ago.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
To retire in Hawaii & to take my wife on a super crazy trip to places we have never seen.
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Reggae and Common Kings. If I had to go with a band then Nsync for Justin Timberlake.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I would have to say Skateworld or Wonderland.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Steve Harvey, because I could learn from him. Anything he touches turns to gold. I would take him to eat at my food cart, Hayward’s Kitchen.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Nike started here.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Not working for anyone but myself and living in my forever home.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I like clogging. I like to watch it. It reminds me of synchronized swimming but on stage. Its like aggressive tap dancing, no one smiles.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Mexico
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
August 24th, Christmas and any summer month.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
My Wife
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My Family.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Gas & Lavender
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Love, Laughter, Joy
