Alabaster
A Word from the Editor & Publisher, Ted Vodde
Sean Thornton had killed a man. He hadn’t meant to, but when he hit him square to the jaw in the
boxing ring, he didn’t get up. Sean was just fighting for a heavyweight title, he had won but he was devastated. He decides to retire, leave America and return to his native village in Ireland, buy a small place and retreat from the world. But in Ireland he encounters a new world filled with wonderful characters, including the fiery redhead Mary Kate whom
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he falls in love with. Her brother doesn’t approve and withholds her dowry as they do in the old world. How they settle the disagreement is the capstone of a wonderful movie called “The Quiet Man”. Directed by John Ford and produced in color in 1952, it features everything you could want to celebrate Ireland, fighting, dancing, horseracing, and of course expositions of wisdom among pints in the local pub. It is charming and funny and can’t help but touch your heart. March is the month of St. Patrick’s Day when everyone is Irish. If you’ve
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never seen the film, you can find it on TV around St. Patrick’s Day or if you have Netflix, it’s probably on that as well. Even the fights in the film are good natured with breaks for drinks and the promise to follow the “Marquis of Queensbury Rules”. One of my fondest memories is sharing this movie with my daughter, and she loved it, especially with Maureen O’Hara playing the role of Mary Kate, a strong female character, and John Wayne as Sean Thornton. Mark March 17 on your calender. “Erin go braugh!”
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WE’RE ALWAYS ONLINE AT WWW.ALABASTERNEWSLETTER.COM! CHECK IT OUT! The Alabaster Newsletter Published Monthly Editor & Publisher: Ted Vodde Contributors: John Brackin, Eric Starling, Sarah P. Jones Danny Doyle, Dawn South, David Frings We welcome your comments, suggestions & story ideas. Call 620-5505 and e-mail tedvodde@gmail.com Copyright© 2015 Mindstream Media, LLC
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March, 2015
ONE BUSINESS CLOSING LEADS TO A NEW RETAILER Employees of Maurice’s located in the South Promenade in Alabaster were shocked to find out that their store would close its doors in January. According to employees, this was not due to a poor economy or sagging sales but instead the failure to successfully negotiate a new lease and larger store with the owners of the shopping center. Maurice’s was one oF the many original tenants that opened at Alabaster’s second largest shopping center. While it is sad to see any business close, there is a silver lining to this story with the announcement of a new and larger business. The Illinois based Ulta Beauty store has announced plans to open in 2015 at the location vacated by Maurice’s. Ulta is a high-end beauty supply
YOUR SAYS
store that carries a wide range of cosmetics, hair and skin care items, fragrances and salon tools. Like all Ulta stores, the Alabaster location will also host a full-service salon making it a one-stop-shop for your beauty care needs. Ulta currently has stores in the Birmingham metro area at the Patton Creek Shopping Center behind the Galleria in Hoover and Brook Highland on Highway 280. The Alabaster City Council discussed awarding an incentive to the Highway 31/11 LLC Development Company which owns the location for the proposed store. According to the City Manager, George Henry, the developer is proposing expanding the existing bay that housed Maurice’s to a
little more than 11,000 square feet or a 70 by 145 footprint. This is more than twice the size of the current footprint. The package being considered would rebate a portion of the sales taxes generated by the new Ulta. The proposal would approve a rebate of a percentage of the sales taxes paid above an annual $15,000.00 threshold for the first five years of operation
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which would be equivalent to new tax dollars. This would breakdown to a 90 percent rebate of “new” sales taxes the store generates in its first three years, 80 percent in the fourth year and 75 percent in the fifth year. The total proposed incentive to the developer could have A total value of $516,000 over the five year period. Ulta could open as soon as October of this year.
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March, 2015
DISC GOLF COURSE OPENS IN ALABASTER There’s a great new “golf” course in Alabaster that doesn’t require hours and hours on the practice range to enjoy. The City of Alabaster’s new disc golf course opened at Veterans Park on Saturday, Jan. 31, and it offers residents another fine opportunity to experi-
Disc Golf Course, each hole is marked by a sign indicating the direction of the target for that particular hole. Most of the holes are over open space, though some require that players maneuver their discs through lightly-wooded terrain. Each hole at the Veterans Park Disc Golf Course is
Mayor Handlon, other city officials and dedicated players came out to open the new disc golf park. ence the city’s blossoming park system. For those new to the sport, disc golf is a fun but simple variation on the traditional game of golf. Rather than using clubs to drive a small, white ball around a course, however, disc golfers simply use a Frisbee-like disc, which they try to land in a series of metal baskets. The Alabaster course is laid out in 18 holes, just like a normal golf course, with tee boxes and “holes.” And the players try to finish the course with the lowest score possible, with each throw equaling a stroke. At the Veterans Park
classified as a Par 3, meaning the entire course is Par 54. Disc golf as a sport is a growing phenomenon. The Professional Disc Golf Association, which is the sport’s governing body, has a membership of more than 50,000 people. And it just announced a partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to host an invitational event Memorial Day weekend in Seaside, Ca. The new Alabaster course was designed by disc golf pioneer Tom Monroe, who has been involved with Frisbee and disc sports since the 1970s. Monroe is a winner of mul-
tiple world titles, as well as a member of the Disc Golf Hall of Fame. The course was funded in part by the Alabaster Sports and Entertainment Foundation. Naturally, the Veterans Park course is free and open to the public. The first hole, Hole No. 1, is located off the back parking lot near the pavilion. With spring right around the corner, now is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy Alabaster’s latest attraction. For more information, contact the Alabaster Parks and Recreation Department at 664-6840. For information on the sport of disc golf, visit the Professional Disc Golf Association website at www.pdga.com. Other Birmingham-area disc golf courses can be found at the University of Mayor Marty Handlon throws the Montevallo, George inaugural disc at the opening of the Ward Park and Disc Golf Course at Vets Park. Inverness.
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March, 2015
5
CHALLENGE PRESENTS OPPORTUNITIES FOR REFORM
Senator Cam Ward It is no secret that, as the Alabama Legislature reconvenes in March, we have some major challenges. Our General Fund Budget of about $1.6 billion will have a shortfall of nearly $250 million in the
upcoming fiscal year. This is a big problem considering that Medicaid and prisons consume about 65% of the budget and cannot be cut any further than they already have been. I believe this challenge presents us with some real opportunities for reform. For better or worse, government seldom tackles necessary reform until they are faced with a crisis. Instead of the knee-jerk reaction to automatically raise revenue, we should first look at where longterm reform can save our state money. I have long talked about the need for reform in our broken corrections system in Alabama. The model we have right now is not working, and many other states have
already provided us with the blueprint that can help Alabama move forward in a fiscally conservative manner on this issue. While it might take a lot of political courage to take on this reform, it is long overdue and will save the taxpayers a lot of money, as well as enhance public safety. Medicaid is another area that the state needs to take a hard look at reforming. It is the fastest growing part of our General Fund Budget. The answer some say is to just ‘take the additional federal money being offered under Obamacare.’ This is a terribly, over-simplistic approach to solving our problem. By taking the federal dollars that have been
proposed, the State of Alabama will still have to provide 10% of the overall Medicaid dollars given to us. That sounds like a good deal; however, the problem is that 10% of the federal dollars could increase the spending in our General Fund by up to $120 million. If we are short $250 million now, why would we increase expenditures by that much money and where would it come from? Alabama state government does have some serious challenges ahead, but I truly believe these challenges will force us to finally tackle some of the long overdue reforms that are needed.
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HARLESS & YODER SIGN WITH TROY UNIV. SOCCER On Monday, February2nd in a Signing Ceremony at THS, Thompson High School Seniors Amber Harless and Brittany Yoder signed with the Troy University Women’s Soccer Team. Both girls have played THS Girl’s Varsity Soccer since 10th Grade and also have played extensively with various area soccer clubs. Troy degree programs offered were a strong attraction and the ultimate deciding factor. In addition to Soccer, both girls received academic scholarships! Amber will pursue a degree in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Public Relations; Brittany will pursue a career in Nursing. (Both are Honors and AP students, in various Honor Societies, etc.) The Trojan Women’s
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Soccer Team has been successful both on and off the field. In November 2014, the team earned a spot in the Sun Belt Conference championship game. Amber Harless, Midfield/Forward, Alabaster, Ala., Thompson HS Prep: Played for Thompson High School in Alabaster, Ala. Named allstate in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Finished junior season (2014) with 33 goals and 12 assists. Earned 2013 Birmingham Coaches All-Metro Golden Boot Award. Named first team Birmingham Coaches AllMetro in 2012 and 2014. Named to US Olympic Development Program allregion team Club: Plays for Vestavia Hills Soccer Club (VHSC) Attack '97 Black. Led team to U17 Alabama State Cup
(FROM LEFT) Amber Harless and Brittany Yoder signed with the Troy University Women’s Soccer Team championship in 2013. Team was U17 Alabama State Cup finalist in 2014. Brittany Yoder, Midfield, Alabaster, Ala., Thompson HS Prep: Played for Thompson High School in Alabaster, Ala. Led team to area championships in 2013 and 2014. Named first team all-
metro in 2014. Named first team all-county in 2014 .Named second team AllBirmingham Metro Association in 2014 . Also a member of the Thompson HS track team Club: Played for BUSA 97 in the Elite Clubs National League
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COMEDY APR. 17-25 South City Theatre presents “The Real Queen of Hearts Ain’t Even Pretty” by Brad Bailey. Directed by Lisa Ponder. April 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 @ 8 p.m., Matinee: April 19 @ 2 p.m. We are backstage in the girl's locker room, at the annual Queen of Hearts Beauty Pageant at a high school in a small town in Alabama in 1976 with two girls who are competing in the pageant, and two who aren't, for reasons which supply a lot of the humor, and a lot of the drama, in this much produced and much acclaimed new play. Feathers fly when the "new girl," Sherri Lee, wins. She is very popular with the boys, which makes her very unpopular with the girls. "Bailey's dialogue is clever, amusing and on the mark, surprisingly tuned to the femininity of his characters. The play is a winner." - Dramalogue "Funny and poignant." - Los Angeles Reader "Deftly mixes comedy and drama." - Variety Tickets are $16 General Admission; $13 for Students or Seniors.
Seating is limited so reservations are highly recommended. Call 205 621 2128 and leave a message. (Please note this phone is only monitored just before and during actual performance dates.) Or purchase tickets online at www.southcitytheatre.co m/get-reservations This will be South City’s first production in their new Pelham home: Alpine Square, 2969 Pelham Parkway, Suites JK, Pelham , AL 35124. Located behind the Waffle House and across the street from Regions’ Bank, near the Pelham Post Office. There’s plenty of parking and the theatre is conveniently located near many Cahaba Valley Road restaurants.
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Alabaster/Thompson 6th Grade Center Student Bryson Hartman plays travel Hockey for the Alabama Junior Frozen Tide, Pee Wee (11-12) division. The team plays the home games in Pelham. The team won the 2014 Turkey Shootout Tournament Championship played in Atlanta over Thanksgiving and in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. are the 2015 Freedom Cup Champions played in Huntsville. We played in Nashville on February 7th and 8th and will host Atlanta Fire February 28 & 29th, Nashville tournament in March, anf Halifax, NS Canada in April. Photos by Colleen Hartman Photography
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6636644 March, 2015
SHELBY CHAMBER “KEEPING IT REAL” AT THS This past January, the career prep students at Thompson High School got a few lessons in “real world” economics when the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce (GSCCC) hosted its annual “Keeping It Real” program. The two-day educational program, which was held Jan. 14-15, focuses on personal spending and the importance of keeping a budget once students are out of school and in the workforce. According to Keyla Handley, the director of community and workforce development with the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, the program is divided into two separate days to provide both a classroom experience and a more hands-on experience. “On day one, we go into
the actual career prep classroom and we do a PowerPoint presentation for the students, and then on day two, when they go to their career prep class, they all come to the gym and we have twelve booths for them to go to,” said Handley. For the second day of the program, students are given a “budget,” which they use to pay for things like transportation, groceries, childcare, clothing, housing and education. For example, a student would be able to select a certain car to purchase, and then they’d have to subtract the corresponding car payment from their monthly budget. Handley said they try to stress the importance of the value of education. By purchasing education, students are allowed to increase their monthly income by a
certain amount. According to Handley, this year’s program was able to reach nearly 600 students. “I believe it went very well,” Handley. “We were excited about the participation there.” This was the second year for the successful “Keeping It Real” program, which the Chamber of Commerce took to 11 different schools this year throughout the area. This year, the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce is also introducing a new career awareness fair for sophomores. That program is scheduled for April 23-24. “It’s based on the 16 career clusters that are recognized by the State of Alabama,” said Handley. “Each 10th grade student
will get to visit two of the 16 career clusters.” Each station will be manned by individuals who work in that field and are able to provide information to the students about the different careers available. “They’re going to speak to the students about what they do on a daily basis, what their job entails, the education requirements, the salary range and really a heads-up on the things they’d need to be doing today to prepare for a job like that in the future,”
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March, 2015
Alabaster
BUSINESS PROFILE
HOME HANDYMAN With spring right around the corner, now is the perfect time to consider that home improvement project you’ve been thinking about over the winter. And for those who might be in need of some help, local handyman T.J. Lisenba can most likely provide the assistance you need. Lisenba, who does business as “Home Handyman,” has been providing home repair servicHome Handyman T.J. Lisenba specializes in doing repairs around es to homeowners in your house and remodeling projects. Shelby County for over 25 kitchens. I get a lot of work years. He combines friend- Lisenba. Lisenba also credits his through Counter ly service with over two father for serving as a role Dimensions. They do a lot decades of experience, fixof kitchen and bathroom ing everything from ceiling model for him when he was younger. remodels,” he said. fans to kitchen cabinets. “We never had anybody Lisenba said he has Lisenba, who’s originalcome fix anything for us. If done some commercial ly from Mobile, has been we couldn’t fix it, it didn’t projects over the years, but living in the area for over get fixed, whether it was the his specialty is definitely in 30 years, so he’s very house or the car. My daddy the home. familiar with Shelby “I work in Alabaster, County. He went to school could fix anything,” he said. These days, Lisenba has Helena, Pelham, Calera,” in Mobile to study elecbeen doing a lot of remodelhe said. “I do anything tronics, but most of his ing projects, like bathrooms from leaky faucets to light expertise simply comes and kitchens. switches and ceiling fans. I from years of putting in “There for several years, do sheetrock repair, paintthe work. all I did was small repair ing and tile work.” “I learned everything Lisenba can also replace on my own over the years. stuff, but the last couple of years I’ve gotten into a lot of doors and screen doors. I’ve always been real According to Lisenba, a handy at doing stuff,” said remodeling, bathrooms and
good portion of his new business comes from customers recommending him to others, which is a sure sign of a satisfied client. “I get a lot of word of mouth,” he said. “About 50 percent of my work comes from referrals.” To arrange an appointment, call Home Handyman at 540-3199. Lisenba will come out to the home and provide an estimate on the project if need be. When customers hire Home Handyman, they’ll know exactly who they’re getting to perform the work, since Lisenba doesn’t have any other employees. “I’m just a one-man operation,” he said. “Most of my people like that.”
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SCHOLASTIC CHESS MAR. 7 For kids who like to play “The Royal Game,” there’s an opportunity to test out their skills this March in the Alabaster Scholastic Chess Tournament. This year will be the seventh-annual Alabaster Scholastic, which will be held at Thompson Intermediate School on Saturday, March 7, in partnership with Alabaster City Schools. It’s produced by Birmingham-based chess organization Caesar Chess. Player check-in starts at 8 a.m. A players meeting is scheduled for 8:45 a.m. Participants are encouraged to register in advance, but late registration is available on the day of the event. Late registrants will have to pay a $10 late fee. The competition sections include rated categories, Knight (K-12) and Pawn (K-6), and nonrated,
Novice (K-12). The cost to enter is $20 for rated sections and $15 for nonrated. According to tournament director Caesar Lawrence, the tournament is expected to draw around 50 students. In addition to hosting tournaments, Caesar Chess also holds scholastic chess classes at various Birmingham-area schools, including Thompson Intermediate School, Thompson Middle School, Helena Middle School, Oak Mountain Middle School, Oak Mountain Intermediate, Deer Valley Elementary and others. Individual trophies will be awarded to the top three finishers in each section. Team trophies will be awarded in the novice section. Teams are comprised of three or more players. For more information, visit Caesarchess.com.
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March, 2015
CITY ONE OF STATE’S “BEST FOR YOUNG FAMILIES” Most folks in Alabaster are well aware that it’s a great city for young families, but it’s nice when an independent organization can look at the data and confirm it. Nerdwallet.com, a consumer finance website, recently gave the City of Alabaster high marks in its ranking of Alabama’s “Best Cities for Young Families.” Alabaster came in at No. 11 on the list of 96 Alabama cities, just barely missing the top ten. The website’s analysis was designed to find the state’s “best combination of solid schools, great neighbors and affordability.” According to the website, the list included cities with over 5,000 residents and was based on data from the 2013 U.S. Census
Bureau’s American Community Survey. The categories that were used to determine the results were home affordability, growth and prosperity, family friendliness and educational quality. Home affordability was weighted as 30 percent of the score, with growth and prosperity being 20 percent, family friendliness being 30 percent and education 20 percent. The education rating was based on information from GreatSchools.org. According to the list, Alabaster’s median home value was $162,700, which compared favorably with some of the cities ranked in the top ten. The median family income in Alabaster for 2013 was listed as $78,906, and the percentage
Furniture, primitives, crocks, linens, glassware. Rediscover the charm of a “simpler time.” Just in time for Easter local artist Debs Graham bunnies are here for any decor. Come enjoy and own a piece of the past.
of families with at least one child under the age of 18 was listed as 29.4 percent. That number represented the third-highest percentage in the list. The top city in the list was Southside, followed by Meridianville, Madison, Trussville, Pelham, Hartselle, Auburn, Muscle Shoals, Calera and Prattville. In general, the site said that Alabama is a “solid choice” for young families looking to buy a home: “The median value of housing in the state is $124,900, 29% below the value of the national mark. Affordability in the state is demonstrated by the 69.7% homeownership rate – higher than the national
average of 64.9%.” As the article noted, however, the cities that made the top ten in the list had home values above the state average. But they also scored well “when it comes to schools and family friendliness, so young families in Alabama get a lot for their buck.” To view the article and the list of cities, visit www.nerdwallet.com and search “Best Cities for Young Families in Alabama.”
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PREPARING FOR THE NEXT LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Representative April Weaver My House and Senate colleagues and I recently gathered in Montgomery to participate in the constitutionally-mandated organizational session of the Alabama Legislature. During the two-day meeting, we drafted the rules under which both chambers will operate during the 2015 - 2018 quadrennium, and we elected our legislative leadership. In addition, committee assignments were announced, and I was awarded the chairmanship of the House Health Committee, a 13-member panel tasked with handling legislation that affects public health, primary care, Medicaid reform, and other related issues. As the first woman to chair this committee in our state’s 196-year history, I am humbled by the confidence being placed in my
14
leadership abilities and eager for the opportunity it offers. I look forward to utilizing my 20 years of experience in the health care field as we work to improve the lives of our fellow Alabamians. The leadership also assigned me to seats on the State Government Committee, where I hope to implement efficiencies that save substantial taxpayer dollars, and the Internal Affairs Committee, which is responsible for the body’s internal operations and for disciplining members who violate House rules. When lawmakers convene for the 2015 regular session on March 3, many important issues will have to be addressed, but perhaps the most daunting is the estimated $265 million shortfall in the General Fund budget, which provides appropriations to all non-education state agencies. If stagnant revenues, the lack of one-time available monies, and pressing needs among state agencies is factored in, the shortfall rises as high as $750 million, according to estimates. Because of rising costs in health care resulting from the misnamed “Affordable” Care Act, the
state’s Medicaid agency, for example, must have an additional $100 million to $115 million in the upcoming budget just to maintain services at their current levels. The Department of Corrections, which is under threat of federal takeover because prisons are filled to 200 percent capacity and long overdue facility improvements are needed, must have another $40 million to just keep operating as it is. And because we have historically siphoned from other funding sources in order to keep the General Fund held together, the Legislature must continue paying back $160 million that was borrowed from the Rainy Day Fund. As a committed, lifelong conservative who is
genetically averse to raising taxes, I am committed to finding a solution to our fiscal woes that does not place new broad-based levies on the backs of Alabama taxpayers. Government should live within its means, just like families do, even if it requires tough choices and some uncomfortable belt tightening. I look forward to serving you in the House over the next four years and sincerely invite you to contact me with any ideas, thoughts, or concerns you might have. By working together, we can make Alabama an even better place to live and raise our children.
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March, 2015
Alabaster
ALBERT L. SCOTT LIBRARY
LIBRARY ACTIVITIES Every Wednesday
10:15 am Outreach Stories at area daycares 3:30 pm Tunes & Tales for all ages in the meeting room
1st Thursday 1:00 pm
Friends of Library Bookmenders Every Friday 10:30 am Toddler Tales (2s, 3s) 10:30 in the meeting room. Children must be with an adult.
LIBRARY ADULT ACTIVITIES Free AARP Tax Help for Seniors - February through mid-April. Available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the meeting room. Call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library to sign up. 664-6822. Adult Computer Classes - Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822. Wednesday, March 4, 2015. 10 am – Microsoft Word 2007 Part 2 Wednesday, March 11, 2015. 10 am – Microsoft Excel 2007 Part 1 Wednesday, March 18, 2015. 10 am – Microsoft Excel 2007 Part 2 ABC & Ds of Medicare – March 9, 2015. 1 pm. Karen Haiflich of the Medicare Information Source will help you navigate through the process of Medicare. Learn about filing, benefits, and any other questions you might have. For more information, contact the library at 205-664-6822. Downton Abbey Tea & Trivia – March 9, 2015. 6 pm - Think you know all there is to know about Downton Abbey? Come test your knowledge and maybe win a prize! Enjoy delicious snacks, teas, and see if you have what it takes to win! Registration is required. Call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library to sign up. 664-6822. Masterpiece Book Club – March 13, 2015. 2 pm. Join this daytime book club as we explore the classics of literature. We will discuss Tess of the d’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy. Young Tess Durbeyfield attempts to restore her family's fortunes by claiming their connection with the aristocratic d'Urbervilles. But Alec d'Urberville is a rich wastrel who seduces her and makes her life miserable. Program takes place in the meeting room. Library Book Group - March 19, 2015. 7 pm – Join us in our discussion of “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd. “Hetty Handful” Grimke, an urban slave in early nineteenth century Charleston, yearns for life beyond the suffocating walls that enclose her within the wealthy Grimke household. The Grimke’s daughter, Sarah, has known from an early age she is meant to do something large in the world, but she is hemmed in by the limits imposed on women. Program takes place in the meeting room. What’s That Button Do?: Getting the Most Out of Your Digital Camera – March 21, 2015. 10:30 am - Whether one is trying to take pictures to display on a web site, frame and hang as fine art, or just capture family or vacation memories, today's digital cameras - Digital Compact or Digital SLR - are packed with capabilities and features that greatly enhance and extend the user’s ability to capture and create images that fill a wide range of needs. The class will consist of one 3 hour session covering: •Camera types and their advantages and disadvantages •Camera standard operational modes •Special features and effects. This class is designed for those who have just gotten their first digital camera or for those who have had one for a while but never really felt comfortable shooting in any mode other than full auto - point and shoot. Class size is very limited. Students should bring their cameras and camera manuals. Call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library to sign up. 205-664-6822. No-Knit Infinity Scarf – March 15, 2015. 3 pm. Join us and learn how to make a no-knit infinity scarf in about an hour. Class is led by Scotlyn Miller. Participants need to bring a ball of “chunky” yarn. Job Search Workshops – Will resume in May
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES March 17 Lego League 6:00pm-6:45pm Kids of all ages can come play with Legos of all sizes! Meets in the meeting room. Children 6 years old and younger must be with an adult. March 25 Hippity-Hoppity Tales with the Easter Bunny 10:15am-11:00am How EGG-citing! Young children accompanied by an adult can come for fun with “Miss Spring” and the Easter Bunny! Visit with the Easter Bunny and get a goody bag! Don’t forget your camera to take photos! The fun is in the meeting room. March 26 Pete the Cat Book Club 4:00pm Boys and girls 5 years old and older can join in the fun of cool cats, reading, and making an Easter Hut. These cute houses are like gingerbread houses but use pastel colors. Please sign up. Meets in the meeting room. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult. March 27 American Girls Club 4:00pm Girls 7 years old and older can sign up for the fun of making friends, reading, learning history, and playing with dolls. Come with or without a doll and learn to finger-knit a doll scarf. Meets in the meeting room. March 31 Egg Dying Workshop 6:15pm EGG-traordinary Fun! $3.00 per half-dozen eggs. Please sign up and pay in advance by March 30. Make checks out to the library. Children six years old and younger must be with an adult. Meets in the meeting room.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY Be a Friend! The Friends is a group of dedicated booklovers that wants everyone to know the benefits the library offers, and how members can increase its effectiveness. We have occasional fundraisers such as semi-annual book sales, and promotions in cooperation with local merchants to raise funds for special books and activities for all ages such as the Summer Reading Program and the Cake and Culture Program. We also maintain several areas at the library where books can be purchased at bargain prices. These are books that have been donated, so here’s also an option for those books you no longer want in your private library. For as little as $10 a year you can be a Friend and support the library. There are several levels of membership, and always opportunities for a few hours of volunteering. Application forms are available at the Library or at www.cityofalabaster.com
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March, 2015
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT NEW BEACON New Beacon Hospice in Alabaster is seeking volunteers to help with a variety of different needs, ranging from direct care with patients to providing birthday cakes and cards. “We do so much more than just direct care, even though that’s a real need, but there’s just so much that volunteers can do,” said Marcella Baker, volunteer coordinator for New Beacon Hospice. For those who aren’t familiar with the concept of hospice, it’s essentially a set of services provided to families and patients as a loved one nears the end of life. “Hospice is really helping end of life or a change in life’s condition toward the end of life, and that’s what’s scary for most people. But a lot of times we can help the patient and the families long before we get typically
involved,” said Baker. “We’re really a support system that comes in to help not just the patient but the family as well.” New Beacon Hospice provides a range of assistants to help out patients, including social workers, bereavement coordinators, aids, nurses and of course, volunteers. And the work the volunteers provide is essential to those who are going through a difficult period. “We have a team of volunteers that help in a variety of ways just to brighten the days of our patients and their families, just to let them know that someone is thinking about them,” said Baker. Volunteers can provide direct care with patients or provide assistance in the office, which is located in
Alabaster on Seventh Avenue N.E. (behind the Arby’s by the hospital). But they can also help in a number of other, creative ways, like baking cakes or making cards. “Not all of our volunteers have patient contact,” said Baker. “We just try to place them in a place that they’re comfortable. That doesn’t have to be contacting the patient.” Baker said they would welcome musicians to provide music for patients or someone with a flair for flowers to help make flower arrangements. She’d also like to find someone who can sew to help make meaningful mementos for family
members. “People will say to me, I don’t see how you work for hospice,” said Baker. “But really and truly, every member of our team thinks that it’s our blessing that those families allow us to come in at a very intimate part of their lives. We are blessed to be able to go in and be a part of their family for a bit of time to help them through.” For more information on volunteering opportunities, contact New Beacon Hospice at 620-3508.
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EASTER SEALS 5K MARCH 21 The first-annual “Leprechaun Leap” 5K run and walk benefiting Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area will be held on Saturday, March 21. The event will take place at the Preserve in Hoover and will feature plenty of fun, family activities in addition to the scenic 5K run and walk. The event is especially important for one local family, whose son, Kyler, is an Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area Pediatric Ambassador for 2014-2015. “Our five-year-old son, Kyler, has been going to Easter Seals since he was six months old,” said Jamie McNaught, Kyler’s mother. “He started going there for physical therapy. Now he goes there for speech and occupational therapy. He has what’s called Sensory Processing Disorder. This year, he was one of four children chosen to be an
ambassador.” Funds from the event go to support the Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area Pediatric Therapy Clinic. The event will include a Kids Zone sponsored by Covenant Classical Schools. The Kids Zone will feature face painting, a balloon animal artist, glitter tattoos, moonwalks and a rock climbing wall. There will also be live music, as well as an arts and crafts festival and food trucks. “It’s going to be a really fun day for kids and families,” said McNaught. To register for the event, visit Runsignup.com and search “Leprechaun Leap.” There’s also a map of the race route. The cost to participate in the run is $30, plus a $2.50 signup fee. People can also join Kyler’s race team, which is called “Ky-RAN-asaurus,” on the website. Just click on the tab for Group/Team
and scroll down till you see Ky-RAN-asaurus. “We’re trying to get team members to join our team,” said McNaught. For those who can’t attend the 5K, there’s another way to contribute to the cause. Moe’s Southwest Grill in Alabaster will be holding a fundraiser on Friday, March 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. Diners simply need to mention the Easter Seals fundraiser and a portion of their bill will be donated to Team Ky-RANasaurus and the Easter Kyler McNaught of Alabaster is an Easter Seals Pediatric Seals Pediatric Clinic. Ambassador for 2015. Moe’s is located at 300 Colonial Parkway. “If people go eat there The Leprechaun Leap 5K is that night, a percentage sponsored by Blue Cross will go to Kyler’s team, Blue Shield of Alabama which will benefit the and is presented by Easter Seals Pediatric Vecchia Pizzeria. For more Clinic,” said McNaught. information on Easter Seals “They just have to say that of the Birmingham Area, they’re with the Easter visit Eastersealsbham.org. Seals.”
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Alabaster
Parks & Rec Dept., 100 Depot St. 6646840 www.alabasterparks.org
ACTIVITY PAYMENT OPTIONS NOTE: We cannot accept Checks as a method of payment. Please be prepared to pay for any fees with Cash, Debit, Visa, Master Card, or Discover.
YOUTH SOCCER Practices for Spring Soccer will begin on March 2. Games will begin at Municipal Park on April 11. Picture Day is scheduled for April 18.
Youth Baseball/Girl’s Softball Practice began for Spring Baseball and Girl’s Softball on Feb. 16. •Parade of Teams will occur on March 20 at Veterans Park. •Opening Day will be on March 21. •Picture Day is scheduled for April 11 at Veterans Park.
ARBOR DAY TREE GIVEAWAY 140 free trees and seedlings will be given away on Saturday, Feb. 28, at Veterans Park in the Maintenance Shop. Registration will begin at 8 AM. Tree distribution will begin at 9 AM.
PAVILIONS FOR RENT NEW: On-Line Pavilion Rentals – now available. Please go to: www.alabasterparks.org Outdoor Rental Facilities: Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for events such as picnics, family reunions and birthday parties. The best way to assure your event happens at the location of your choice is to reserve it early. •Please do not send out invitations listing one of our parks as the event location before you have secured a pavilion through Parks and Recreation. The pavilion you plan on using may not be available. •Pavilions are available for use by permit only. There is a $40 rental fee (no checks accepted) which must be paid before your reservation is complete. Note: Inflatables, charcoal grills, and piñatas are not allowed in any of the City parks. Please see our web site for a complete list of rules. •All open picnic tables (those not under a covering) are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis.
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START SMART BASEBALL March 2 – 8:00 am: Registration will begin for Start Smart Baseball at the Depot. Registration will close out once 20 children have registered, or at 5:00 pm on March 13, whichever occurs first. The fee is $90 (plus 10% for non-residents). •The program is designed for children ages 3 and 4 as of April 1, 2015. •It is a six week program with emphasis on fundamentals. The six week sessions will be held on Tuesdays at 6:00 pm beginning March 31 and ending May 5. There will be a game and pizza/cupcake party on May 9 at 10:00 am. •Registration must be done in person at the Parks and Recreation office. •Birth Certificate copies are required for new participants.
ADULT SOFTBALL SIGNUP Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 2 at 8:00 am and end on March 31 at 5:00 pm at the Depot. •On-Line Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 2 at 8:00 am and end on March 31 at 11:00 pm. •Fee: $285.00. No registration form accepted without payment in full. •Five leagues will be offered: Open Coed, Coed Church, Open Rec., Open Competitive, and Men’s Church. •Teams may begin practicing once their entry fee has been paid. •Leagues will begin play in May. •For more information, please contact Morgan Lawley at 664-6840 or mnlawley@cityofalabaster.com
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RUN 4 MIKE’S KIDS APR. 18 vention for this rare spinal cord disease. We feel confident that by working with the scientists and researchers at UAB that one day we will be free from a disease that is so traumatic on patients and families.” To register for the event, go to Active.com and search “Run 4 Mike.” The cost to participate in the 5K is $30 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under. The one-mile fun run is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. Race divisions are 0-12, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+ and overall. For more information, visit the Mike L. Jezdimir TM Foundation online at Mikestransversemyelitis.com.
EDUCATION GRANT
Keller Williams Agent Tim Mitchell, Andrew, softball player Grace Robertson, and Rebecca Robertson Grace Robertson of the Thompson Middle School Softball team is the latest recipient of grant funds from Tim Mitchell of Keller Williams Realty. Tim provides grants and sponsorships toward the school, classroom, athletic team, or other school organization of his clients' choice. His exclusive Grant Program was created to show appreciation to all our local teachers and schools for all they do for our children and families. Tim has provided thousands of dollars over the past couple of years to area classrooms and teams. These grants are available to all Tim's clients with any affiliation with a local school, public or private. Please call (205) 305-8756, or e-mail timmitchell@kw.com, for more information on how you can receive a Tim Mitchell school grant. Congratulations Grace Robertson & TMS Softball!
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This April, local runners will return to Veterans Park in Alabaster for the thirdannual “Run 4 Mike’s Kids 5K” run. The event, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, will be used to raise money to fund medical research into spinal cord diseases like transverse myelitis and multiple sclerosis at UAB. The event will start at 7 a.m. with the race scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. In addition to the 5K run, there’s also a one-mile fun run. Funds from the event go toward the Mike L. Jezdimir TM Foundation, which is a local nonprofit organization that supports medical research at UAB. From the foundation website: “We are dedicated to finding a cure and pre-
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WRESTLING CHAMPS
The Thompson Middle School wrestling team had a great season. Head Coach James Barnes and Assistant Coach Brad Jacks led the TMS wrestlers to win BOTH Metro Championships winning the Individual and Team first place trophies and dominating both events. At the team Metro Championship event, TMS wrestlers did not lose one round of competition. The 43 wrestlers on the team worked hard practicing 2 hours a day; 5 days each week. This is the second time in TMS history that the wrestling team has won first place in a Metro Championship event and the first since 2008. Results of the individual Metro Championship were TMS in first place based on total points. TMS finalists were: Nick Freeman, Sam Latona Chandler Adkins, Michael Jackson, Nathan Roberts, Gabe Hixenbaugh, Derek Hussey, Kodie Robertson Will Conner, and Ariel Saurez. Congratulations to the TMS wrestling team!
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ALABASTER HONORS DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. The Kids First Awareness 21st Century Community Learning Center celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 19, with a special day of activities held at the Shelby County Instructional Services Center in Alabaster. The “Martin Luther King Jr. Family Day” featured a variety of fun and meaningful activities for people of all ages. There was a health and fitness station set up to provide free health information to local residents. The free literature included tips on confronting a number of critical health issues, ranging from diabetes and high blood pressure to heart disease and stroke. There were also games set up for the kids to play, as well as face painting, inflatables, a game truck and entertainment provided by 1 Time Entertainment’s mobile DJ
service. The family-friendly day kicked off at 10 a.m. and ran through the early afternoon. The event drew support from a number of local groups, including the Alabaster Police Department and the Alabaster Fire Department. In fact, one of the highlights of the day was the basketball game between members of police department and members of the fire department. Another popular station was the drum circle, where a number of kids enjoyed banging on a variety of percussive instruments. According to Kids First Executive Director Cindy Hawkins, this was the fifth-annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration hosted by Kids First. The major highlight of the event was the free food giveaway. According to Hawkins, they had over 4,000 pounds of free food to give away to those in need. Approximately 400 people showed up for the
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event, and over 250 were provided with free food. In a video of the event produced by Video Visions of Alabaster, Hawkins thanked City leaders for their support of the event, along with the numer- Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. addresses crowd at the Mall in Washington for his ous volunteers the famous “I Have a Dream” speech. who’ve conevent included City of tributed to making Kids Alabaster Mayor Marty First a thriving and vital Handlon and Debra part of the community. “We thank all those who Bishop of Life Church in have participated. We’d like Pelham. In the fall, Kids First to thank the football team, the basketball team and the performed a community cheerleading team for comservice activity in conjuncing out. We’d like to thank tion with the Martin all of our volunteers, the Luther King Jr. Day of Mayor and the City Council Service by painting a local of Alabaster for all their house on Simmsville Road. support and the police For more information department for helping about Kids First, visit them with the Homework online at Kidsfirst123.com. Buddies program,” said Hawkins. Other participants in the
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MARCH SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES Drumming Program- join us on Tuesday, March 3, at 10am. No experience necessary; but, the benefits are endless. The benefits of drumming: improve your mood, increase circulation, and improve focus, low impact exercise and creativity. No charge for this program. Tour Talladega Track and Museum on Tuesday, March 10- Cost to reserve your spot is $17/person. (Includes transportation, admission for tour of museum, van ride and tour of track/pit area) Space is limited. Bring $10-$12 for lunch. Old Town Montgomery TourJoin us on Wednesday, March 18 as we travel to Montgomery’s Old Town. We will enjoy a walking tour of the “Living Block”. This historic village creates its own unique image of the past. You will visit an 1820 log cabin, a corner grocery store, school house, country doctor’s office, church and a carriage house. Cost is $11 to reserve your spot and includes transportation and admission for tour. Bring $10-$12 for lunch. Ebenezer Swamp TourThursday, March 26 we will tour the Ebenezer Swamp located in Montevallo. You will take a walking guided tour of the 400 foot boardwalk and see sculptures, flowers and endangered plant species. Cost is $1 to reserve your spot. Bring $10-12 for lunch. Birmingham Southern Environmental Center- Join
us on Tuesday, March 31 as we take a tour of an interactive museum, tour the eco-scape and create eco-art. $5.00 to reserve your spot and includes transportation, tour and art. Bring $12-15 for lunch. Ageless Adventures in Movement- using movement as a language to explore or express an idea. Let’s explore some issues of aging as we learn the basics of creative movement. We’ll learn to use the Elements of Dance to tell our stories, and explore the concept of the relationship between dance and the wellbeing of mind, body and spirit. No prior dance experience is necessary. We’ll build our dance vocabulary as we go! This is an ongoing class every Thursday from 1-2pm. $2/class. Arthritis Exercise ProgramThis class helps improve pain and stiffness, maintain range of motion, balance, coordination and also increases endurance and improves overall health. Every Wednesday at 10am. Space is limited. $2/class. Head to Toe Fitness ClassMondays from 1-2pm. Build muscular strength, increase your cardiovascular endurance and improve your balance, flexibility and range of motion as you have fun and move to the music! Do all this seated or standing……it’s your choice! This class will incorporate the use of hand weights, resistance tubing, balls, etc. into an enjoyable exercise class that will help you manage your activities of everyday living with
ease. So join us as we strengthen our body, mind and spirit, and support each other in the pursuit to make everyday a healthier day! $2/class. Strengthen, Stretch and Restore (30 min mat based exercise class) Mondays from 2:15-2:45pm. All participants will begin class seated on a mat on the floor. A variety of exercises will be performed on the mat with no need to get up and down during class. We will remain on the mat until the end of class. This class is designed to strengthen the body by incorporating lengthening exercises that use body weight as well as fitness tools. Focus will be on stabilizing the body's core which is where all movement and balance begins. We will also increase flexibility and range of motion while gently stretching all of the major muscle groups. We will also focus on correct breathing techniques, body awareness and relaxation, feeling refreshed and restored by the end of class. $1/class.
You won’t want to miss all the activities at the Senior Center: •Timeless Treasures (singing): Mondays at 10:00 am •Head to Toe Fitness: Mondays from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm •Mat Stretch Class: Mondays from 2:15 pm until 2:45 pm •Wii Bowling: Tuesdays •Rook: Wednesdays at 9 am •Arthritis Exercise: Wednesdays at 10:00 am •Zumba Gold (exercise): Wednesdays at 1:00 pm •Bridge: Thursdays from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm •Ageless Adventures in Movement: Thursdays from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm •Tempo exercise: Fridays at 10 am If you would like more information concerning Senior programs, please contact the Alabaster Senior Center at 205-663-1307 or awalters@cityofalabaster.com The Senior Center is located at 1097 7th St. SW in Alabaster next to the new City Hall.
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eterans
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SENIOR SOFTBALL ANYONE?
The Russ Arthur Senior Softball Association (RASSA) is looking for you. Anyone 55 years or older who loves playing softball and is interested in getting some exercise and sharing some camaraderie, please join us on the softball field for our 2015 season (which runs from March through October). RASSA sponsors Tuesday and Thursday morning leagues at West Homewood Park. There are four teams each morning and games are played at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM. The annual cost per league is $35.00 + $10.00 for the uniform shirt, which you keep. If you are interested, please contact Ed Girard, RASSA Commissioner, at the following email address: edward.girard@farmersinsurance.com Think you are too old? Our oldest player is 87+, and quite a few over 70+. You will be amazed at the talent on the field at all age levels! Association web site: therassa.org 22
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March, 2015
A DIFFERENT SIDE OF OAK MTN. STATE PARK BY DAVID FRINGS Interpretive Center (OMIC) is operated by Samford University and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. It houses an exhibit hall that highlights the ecosystems found in the park and the Oak Mountain State history, geology, biology, Park, located to our north and ecology of the park. in Pelham, Alabama, is a One of the newest exhibits destination for family fun that is under construction and activities. Whether it is features images of mamlying on a sandy beach mals that were phocatching a few rays of suntographed in the park at shine, hiking, boating, night which is a sight that horseback riding, camping, most visitors do not get to see. The center also mainor cycling, Oak Mountain tains a backyard habitat has it all. In addition to all and butterfly garden on of these activities, there are the grounds. I have photwo amenities in the park tographed more than that often go unnoticed. twenty-five species of butThese are the Oak terflies in the garden and Mountain Interpretive countless species of birds. Center and the Alabama The center also has a classWildlife Center. room for meetings and The Oak Mountain field laboratory that are used by students at Samford as well as other universities. The exhibit hall is open to the public for self-guided tours at no charge. Educational opportunities are available at the center from various organizations such as A leucistic Turkey Vulture Birmingham Audubon as well as in-house programs. on display at The Alabama Wildlife Tree Top exhibit
YOUR NEW KEY TO THE CITY!! ADVERTISE IN THE ORIGINAL ALABASTER NEWSLETTER NO OTHER PRIVATE MEDIUM REACHES •EVERY HOUSEHOLD, •EVERY BUSINESS, •EVERY MONTH IN ALABASTER, THE LARGEST CITY IN SHELBY COUNTY. PLUS YOUR AD IS ALSO PUBLISHED ON THE WEB. REACH OVER 16,000 HOMES & BUSINESSES EACH MONTH WITH YOUR ADVERTISING MESSAGE. WE’LL CREATE YOUR AD AT NO ADDITIONAL COST PLUS NO CONTRACTS TO SIGN & ALL COLOR IS ALWAYS FREE PLUS FREE INTERNET EXPOSURE! The ONLY NEWSLETTER published by citizens of Alabaster for citizens of Alabaster. WWW.ALABASTERNEWSLETTER.COM Call Ted Vodde at 620-5505 or email tedvodde@gmail.com forinformation & rates.
The raptor exhibit on the Tree Top Nature Trail at Oak Mountain State Park cages are situated in a Center (AWC) is located woodland setting and connext door to OMIC. Both nected by a raised walkcenters can be accessed by way. Tree Top is open to road or a short hike up the Tree Top Trail. The AWC is the public during normal an independent not for prof- park hours. During your next visit to it organization that rehabiliOak Mountain State Park, tates wild birds. The center please take a moment and works with injured and visit both of these centers orphaned birds from the tiny hummingbird to the red or maybe consider contacting them to volunteer. tail hawk, our largest species of hawk. The center takes in hundreds of birds each year and spends countless hours feeding and rehabilitating them so that they can be released back into the wild. The center has public viewing areas where visitors can see some of the patients as well as feeding stations for birds that This Geologic profile of Oak simply live in the Mountain is part of the centerpiece forest setting surexhibit at the Oak Mountain rounding the buildInterpretive Center ings. The AWC David Frings is an helps the park by maintainAdjunct Professor of ing the birds that are housed Environmental in the Tree Top Exhibit. Management and Director of the Oak This recently refurbished Mountain Interpretive exhibit houses several Center species of native raptors that Samford University could not be rehabilitated located at and released. The spacious Oak Mtn State Park
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March, 2015
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Calendar of Events Mar. 3, Water Board 7pm Chamber Public Safety Committee 6pm Conference Mar. 4, Municipal Court 9 am & 2 pm Chamber Mar. 9, City Council Meeting 7 pm Chamber Board of Education 5:30 pm Chamber Mar.10, Housing & Abatement Board 5:00 pm Conference Mar.11, Municipal Court 9 am & 2 pm Chamber Mar.12, Finance Committee 5:30 pm Conference Mar.17, Driving School, 7pm Mar.19, Public Works Committee 5 pm Chamber Economic Development Committee 5:30 pm Conf. Mar.23, City Council Meeting 7 pm Chamber Board of Adjustments 6:30 pm Conference Mar.24, Planning & Zoning 7 pm Conference Mar.25, Municipal Court 9 am & 2 pm Chamber Sewer Committee 6 pm Chamber
Marty Handlon, Mayor handlon@cityofalabaster.com 664-6800 Sophie Martin, Ward 1 martin@cityofalabaster.com 358-8742 Bob Hicks, Ward 2 hicks@cityofalabaster.com 663-1801 Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3 rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com 621-0168 Rick Walters, Ward 4 walters@cityofalabaster.com 281-7394 Russell Bedsole, Ward 5 bedsole@cityofalabaster.com 663-6212
Scott Brakefield, Ward 6 brakefield@cityofalabaster.com 685-0302 Tommy Ryals, Ward 7 ryals@cityofalabaster.com 664-1301 George Henry, Meetings are held in the new City Hall next to the City Manager and City Clerk Senior Center. Questions about a meeting? ghenry@cityofalabaster.com Call 6646800. 664-6800
Join us for our Lenten Offerings •February 25th 6:30 PM Soup Supper 7:00 pm Dolores Hydock “The Faces of Jesus” The familiar and sur prising story of the life, pas sion, death, and resurrection of Jesus brings us to the dis covery of the face of Jesus in an unexpected place. •March 4th WriterMusician Special Guest Dr. Drexel Rayford “Diving In” Speaker noted storyteller •March 11th,Rev. Angie Wright Dolores Hydock “Welcoming the Stranger” •March 18th and 25th, Dr. Fisher Humphreys “Forgiveness”
Pastor Mary Bea Sullivan
Sunday Worship 8:30 & 10:30 am Christian Education 9:30 am Join us for meaningful worship, engaging education and a welcoming community.
SHELBY COUNTY CAMERA CLUB MEETING TUESDAY MARCH 24, 7PM EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 858 KENT DAIRY ROAD IN ALABASTER CITY DEPARTMENT PHONE NUMBERS •Non-emergency Police matters 663-7401 •Animal Control 664-6761 •Personnel Dept 664-6838 •Code Enforcement 664-5907•Revenue/Business License Dept 664-6844 •Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 •Garbage/recycling bins 664-6800 •Alabaster Parks & Recreation 664-6840
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24 Advertise in the Alabaster Newsletter! Call Ted Vodde at 6205505 or email tedvodde@gmail.com
March, 2015