ALABASTER
CONNECTION THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER | AUGUST 2020
NEXT GENERATION LEADERS pg. 12
HONORING BOBBY HARRIS
CROPS OF LOVE
PARKS GETTING IMPROVEMENTS
pg. 8
pg. 6
pg. 18
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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER Alabaster Connection is published monthly and is delivered to citizens of the City of Alabaster. Editorial Board The Public Relations Committee of the Alabaster City Council. Committee Chair Councilwoman Sophie Martin Councilwoman Kerri Pate Councilman Greg Farrell
Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC Contributors Shana Camara Emily Reed Lindsay Schluntz
We welcome your comments & suggestions. Call 205-447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com
To advertise call 205-447-2214
Non-Emergency City Numbers Police 24-Hours 205-663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 205-663-6155 Fire Department 205-664-6818
1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 ©2020 City of Alabaster
ALABASTER MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS AUGUST 25TH, 7 A.M TO 7 P.M. AT THE RESTORE BUILDING Alabaster will host our quadrennial (once every four years) election for municipal offices. The election is open to all registered and eligible voters. Alabaster voters will vote in the mayoral election and city council elections where multiple candidates have already qualified. Elections will be held August 25th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Restore Building. Alabaster elects the mayor city wide, and council members based on wards. There are seven wards in Alabaster. To see which ward you are zoned for, visit cityofalabaster.com and click the link for municipal elections. There will be a change this year from prior years. The polling location will be the Restore Building, 128 Market Center Drive, Alabaster Al 35007. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. A valid form of photo identification is necessary to cast a non-provisional ballot under most cases. Valid forms of identification include: • Valid Driver’s License Please note this edition of Alabaster • Valid Non-driver ID Connection is devoted to municipal • Valid Alabama Photo Voter ID elections, therefore, no mayoral or city • Valid State Issued ID council comments or ads for mayoral or • Valid Federal Issued ID city council candidates were included. • Valid US Passport • Valid Military ID • Valid Tribal ID • Valid student or employee ID from a college or university in the state of Alabama • Valid Employee ID from Federal, State of Alabama, county, or Municipality, Board, Authority or other entity of the state If you are not in possession of one of these forms of acceptable ID, you may be eligible to receive a free Alabama photo voter ID card. Call 1-800-274-8683 for more information. Other exceptions might apply - see the Secretary of State website for more information: alabamavotes.gov. In order to provide an absentee vote, the voter must make an application and follow procedures closely. A voter can print off the 2020 Municipal Absentee Ballot Application by visiting the City of Alabaster website, call city hall at 205-664-6800, or send an email to mfrey@cityofalabaster.com to begin the process. For complete rules on absentee ballots, please visit the Secretary of State website: www.sos.alabama.gov. THIS EDITION
4 For Tomorrow Comments 5 Teen Council Comments 18 Parks Improvements 19 Teen Council Fundraising 22 Beautification Award
21 CC Meeting Minutes 22 Calendar
FEATURES
6 Crops of Love 8 Honoring Bobby Harris 10 Teen Council Feature
SPOTLIGHTS
12 Business Spotlight 14 Non-Profit Spotlight 16 Citizen Spotlight
FOR TOMORROW
ALABASTER FOR TOMORROW COMMENTS By: Brandon Matthews For Tomorrow, Program Director You've heard it said, “Actions speak louder than words”, “Talk is cheap”, “Put your money where your mouth is”, etc. No matter how you say it, people will always measure what you say by what you do. These old proverbs remind us of the incredible responsibility we have with the actions of our lives. More than 80 percent of children say parents are the leading influencers in their decision to drink or not. 9 out of 10 people with substance problems started using by age 18. Parents, the role you play in the lives of your children can’t be understated. Sure, your kids are learning from friends, media, teachers, coaches, etc., but most youth admit that parents are the leading influence in their life.
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Maybe you’ve asked yourself, “I hope what I’m saying is sinking in.” Instead, I challenge you to evaluate what you are doing over what you are saying. It’s hard to overcome the influence of our action with our words. Don’t tell them what road to follow, lead them. Don’t tell them how to choose friends, show them. Actions speak louder than words. Don’t just say it, show it. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT As you drive north and south on HWY 31 you will notice two new billboards sponsored by For Tomorrow. Both billboards address the role parents play in the lives of their children and utilize the facts in the article above. COVID-19 has limited in-person gatherings so these billboards will reach people where they are as they travel. We invite you to stay up to date by following us on Facebook and at alabasterfortomorrow.com. If you would like more information or would like to volunteer with us, let us know at info@alabasterfortomorrow.com
TEEN COUNCILW
TEEN COUNCIL COMMENTS By: Jasmine Loren Jones My name is Jasmine Loren Jones. I am fifteen years old and a sophomore at Thompson High School. This year will be my second year as a Teen Council member. As we all know, the school year was cut short due to COVID-19. No one got to finish the way they wanted. That year was my freshman year. My freshman year was great. I made a lot of new friends, got involved in clubs, and did sports like cross country and track. I was fortunate enough to make Homecoming Court and that was one of the biggest accomplishments during my freshman year. If I was taught anything during my first year of high school, it was that you can’t take anything for granted and don’t change yourself just to please others. Now that it’s August, it’s time to head back to school and get our routine back. I know I’m so ready and excited to go to school and see my friends and teachers. My experience as a freshman was pretty good. Of course, every school year has its ups and downs, but I can truly say it was a great year. From making new friends, to being a part of clubs like SGA and Key Club, having my first homecoming date, going to my first high school pep rally, and so much more. I learned a lot of things from my friends, who were upperclassmen (mainly seniors). One thing I learned from them was to not take anything for granted. Every moment from my freshman year has had a huge impact on me. Now I’m about to be a sophomore. I’m really excited for this year, but I know this year is going to be very different and will have its challenges. A lot of people are debating going back to school or going virtual. My advice to upcoming freshman is to stay true to yourself. Don’t change yourself to please others, don’t worry about being popular, get involved in clubs, but overall BE YOURSELF. It’s important that we stick to some of these tips to help you maintain a good school year. 1. Don’t Procrastinate: It’s a lot better if you get things done. Don’t keep pushing things backbecause nothing will get done. 2. Prioritize: Make sure that you have all of your priorities together. Some may be more important than others but knowing them and getting them done is really good. 3. Self-Care: School can be stressful. Take some time to yourself, whether that’s reading a book, riding your bike, or watching a movie. It is important that we take care of ourselves to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and physically. 4. Positivity: You should surround yourself with positive people. People who will support you, motivate you, encourage you, and help you. Don’t surround yourself with people who bring you down and are negative. In conclusion, I hope everyone has a great school year. Stay positive, work hard, and don’t forget smiling makes your day 50% better. cityofalabaster.com
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CROPS OF LOVE
Alabaster farmer shares vegetables with the community
Harrison Moore loves to garden and loves to help others. For the last several years he has combined these two loves into something for the community around him to enjoy. “Me and my wife are Christians and we just love to do for people when we can,” Harrison, who recently turned 80, said. “We try to help people out whenever we can, and we figured the best way to do that was by giving them fresh vegetables to enjoy.” Harrison and Darthy Moore have lived on Wilderness Lane since the mid-1970s. For 43 years, the Moore family has grown a large garden, often freezing much of their produce or giving it away when they could. About five years ago, the Moore’s moved into a different home on Wilderness Lane and began letting neighbors share in the fruits of their labor. “We started telling people they could come and take whatever they wanted,” Harrison said. “People usually come and get what they want, and we always hear that they really enjoy it.”
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This year, Moore created an addition to the garden, which serves as a memorial to his father, Robert Moore, who was also a gardener. “My father loved growing tomatoes, so we decided to plant some things in this area and let the neighbors have fresh vegetables for their suppers at night,” Moore said. “I think everyone has really appreciated that this year.” When the Covid-19 outbreak occurred, Moore said many neighbors told him it was a blessing to be able to have fresh vegetables to eat. Harrison and Darthy often pick the vegetables and will place them in containers by the road near their home for neighbors to come and select what they would like to have. In previous years Harrison said they took a lot of produce to their church to share, but this year it was harder to do that, so they kept it locally with their neighbors. “We get a real kick out of seeing our neighbors come and pick what they want,” Harrison said. “It really warms our heart and blesses us to see them enjoy what we grow. If we didn’t share it, a lot of it would go to waste so we are thrilled to be able to do it.” The garden consists of four rows of peas, a row of squash, two rows of Irish potatoes, two rows of sweet potatoes, a row of okra, 246 tomato plants, green beans, butterbeans, five varieties of watermelons, cantaloupes, two additional rows of squash, cucumbers, peppers, and turnip greens. “I have always enjoyed planting things in the garden and watching it grow,” Harrison said. “There is nothing like fresh vegetables to eat during the summertime.” Harrison said he enjoys eating everything, but he particularly enjoys the fresh squash when they are young and tender. “One year when we were still working in real estate, for about four or five days out of the week, we would have squash, potatoes and green beans for dinner,” Harrison said. “We would make some cornbread and that was what we ate every night.” Harrison said the weather has been really good this year for his crops, with a lot of rain, which has helped many of the vegetables to grow in abundance. Both Harrison and Darthy spend a lot of time together in the garden, with Harrison doing most of the prep work, and then both planting. As it begins producing, they both work on placing much of the produce in containers. “We just feel blessed to be able to help our neighbors in whatever way we can,” Harrison said. “We feel like if they can enjoy fresh vegetables from our garden then we are happy to provide for them.” AC
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HONORING BOBBY HARRIS EVERYONE WAS IN ON THE PLAN TO SURPRISE BOBBY HARRIS, A BEDROCK OF ALABASTER, WITH AN HONOR FEW HAVE: HAVING A STREET 1992-2004 playing a key role in the development of the Promenade, the development and construction of Veteran’s Park, the development of the Publix Shopping Center (off 119), major BOBBY, HOWEVER, HAD NO CLUE. expansion to the sewer plant and renovations to Buck Creek, Warrior and Municipal Parks, and he served as a Board member of the Shelby County Regional Library from 1989-2016 and a The surprise took place during a recent City Council meeting. past member of the Shelby/Jefferson Literacy Council Board of “I did not know. Everyone kept it from me since February. The Directors, and, in 2011 Mr. Harris was appointed to the Alabaster city administrator called me a week before the council meeting Water Board and he has served as Chairman since 2016.” to come to the meeting because they were going to recognize “My kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren will drive on the council that built the mall. I was excited to be there. So, that road named after me. I feel proud. I think the legacy is the fact when I walked into the council meeting and I saw my fellow that first of all, personally, you have to have principle. You have to former council member, I knew it was good. They even gave me a stand for something or you’ll fall for anything. I stood for what I dummy agenda. Everybody else had the agenda with my name on believed in. The legacy is obvious. You have the City Hall: new. The it. But the copy they gave me...my name was not on it. I took the Thompson High School: new. The Senior Center: new. Basically, dummy agenda and I took my seat,” he recalled with a smile. all of 119, all of that was part of this development. Veteran’s Park. It slowly dawned on him that maybe there was more to the There was no Veteran’s Park. All of this came from the financial meeting than what he was told. “And then when councilwoman overflow from the mall. That is my legacy,” he said proudly. Rakestraw opened the meeting with a prayer, she prayed for me. Harris wanted to thank so many people. “I want to thank the I couldn’t understand why she called my name in the prayer.” He people in Ward 1 who believed in me. They may not have always continued, “Well it really hit me, after I heard that prayer, and understood where I was leading them, but they trusted me. then Councilwoman Sophie Martin started reading the resoluI would also like to thank my family; they could have walked off tion. ‘on my god they got me, they pulled one on me’,” Harris said and left me in the pain and the misery of it all,” he said. AC with shock. The resolution called for renaming Progress Boulevard, located between Walmart and Books-A-Million which connects Colonial Promenade Parkway with Alabaster Boulevard, to Bobby Harris Boulevard. The same resolution recalled some of the history of Bobby Harris. “Bobby Harris was born and raised in Alabaster, Alabama, and has been a long time Member of the Mt. Olive Baptist Church, and, he served as Assistant Principal at Thompson High School from 1986-1996 and in 1996 was named Principal of the School of Technology at Shelby County High School in Columbiana and retired in 2000, and Mr. Harris served three terms on Alabaster City Council for Ward 1 from
NAMED AFTER HIM.
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FEATURE
NEXT GENERATION LEADERS Alabaster’s Teen Council was created as a way for local high school students to express their leadership abilities and to start carrying some responsibility for their community. The next step in this leadership development process has begun. Four former Teen Council members, Abby Grace, Gracie Coker, Noah Brakefield, and Nthabi Mashego, are now interns working directly with the current Teen Council.
ABBY GRACE WALKER Abby Grace Walker just graduated from Thompson High School this year. She was a member of Teen Council all four years of her high school career, and she says it was one of her favorite involvements. "I loved getting to have a hand in our community. I loved the movie nights, the Slip N’ Slide, and everything else we did. It was always such a fun experience to get to see all the teens in our community come out and have a blast and I wouldn’t
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trade my time on the council for the world!" she exclaimed. Her favorite Teen Council memory was being chosen by the Mayor to attend the inaugural Mayors' National Youth Summit last summer in Los Angeles, CA. "This was such an amazing opportunity to represent our council as well as getting to learn valuable lessons from councils similar to ours all across the country." Abby Grace found that learning how to be a servant leader was of great value. For her, the Teen Council experience
showed that leading is not all about oneself. Rather, leading is about getting a team to the finish line and making sure everyone feels accomplished in the end. "Not only did I learn how to lead well, but I also learned how to serve my community in a leadership role and be a positive role model for others my age." She enjoyed the feeling of making a difference every time the Teen Council held an event for the other students in the community, "We provided a safe environment for teens to come out and just enjoy each other’s presence." Abby Grace is choosing to invest her time back into the next generation of Teen Council because it was such an important and life changing part of her high school career. "I want to make sure I invest all that I know into them so that the council can be the best it can be!" she explained. This year's Teen Council needs are unique, especially because of COVID-19. Trying to find safe events for teens to do together may be a bit of a struggle, so they encourage community members to share ideas and places that may be of assistance. "I am extremely thankful for the students on the council this year who have
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been willing to work with us and also work with the difficult changes we have had to face this year," she acknowledged. Abby Grace plans to attend the University of Alabama and get a degree in Collaborative Elementary Education. Her dream job is to be an Elementary Special Education teacher.
GRACIE COKER Gracie Coker is a 2019 Thompson High School graduate and four-year alum of Teen Council. She is now pursuing a double major in public relations and communication studies at the University of Alabama. During this school season, she will be at her home campus in Tuscaloosa, but will stay connected with those in Teen Council to offer a helping hand. Gracie admits that when she was first selected to be on Teen Council as a freshman, she had no idea what to expect. “Little did I know that Teen Council would give me so many opportunities and be one of the best experiences of my high school career!” she said gratefully. As a former Teen Council member, Gracie discovered how much of an impact the organization makes. During her years as a Teen Council student,
she was able to learn from the City’s human resources department and the information technology department, as well as shadow the court magistrate, the Alabaster Fire Department, and the Mayor. In addition, she volunteered with the Humane Society, ICE (“I Cared Enough” Foundation), the Salvation Army, Mitchell's Place, and many other non-profit organizations. “On Teen Council, I was able to help coordinate big events in Alabaster such as City Fest, Back to School Bash, Teen
Movies in the Park, the Slip ‘n’ Slide event, and other small events we covered,” she recalled. “With Teen Council, I was able to have a voice and to reach out and help my community.” One of her favorite memories dated back to her very first team meeting. “We met up at Family Connections to bond as a team. Nobody really knew anyone yet, but we spent the entire day going through trusting and teamwork activities… I never failed to come out of that day with a newfound friend.” When she got the offer to serve in this capacity for the summer, she was thrilled! “I am here to help the Teen Council members with whatever I can, especially knowing that now is a confusing time with everything going on. I – as well as my peer interns – am here to guide, answer questions, help them get in touch with others in the community, help their social media presence and to do whatever else they need,” she shared. “This is their show, we are just the backstage helpers making sure everything runs smoothly.”
NTHABI MASHEGO Nthabi Mashego is currently a senior mechanical engineering major at Alabama A&M University. She plans on
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FEATURE pursuing her masters in biomedical engineering after graduating. As a member of Teen Council from 2015-2017, she sees value in the leadership skills and confidence she was able to take on to college. “Teen Council gives the teenage community a voice and an opportunity to express themselves freely and positively. It gave me confidence to voice my opinion and the tenacity I needed as a growing adult,” Nthabi pointed out. “I think teens have something positive to look forward to with the help of Teen Council.” The safe space for teens that this organization creates enables young students to discover how to become confident young adults. For this reason, Nthabi felt it would be a disservice to her community to have gained the tools she did during her time on the council and not pay it forward so that the next generation could do the same. “We all have the same goal: to see the success of Teen Council and watch it grow. My role now is to be a bridge between the younger and older communities and help guide the teenagers and use their voice in an impactful way,” she observed. One of her favorite memories of Teen Council was the team-building trip, as it brought her out of her shell and helped her bond with other members. She experienced how important it was that the Council receive support from their community, as well. She hopes this support will continue this year for the new team of students. “They will be working hard every day to try to come up with fun and safe ideas, especially with our current situation. Support them in any way possible,” she implored. “Help them as they try to find a way to create positive outlets within the community.”
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NOAH BRAKEFIELD Noah Brakefield graduated from Thompson High School with the class of 2019 and was a member of Teen Council all four years. He’s currently preparing to start his sophomore year at the University of Alabama. To Noah, the value of Teen Council was knowing that the team was making a difference in other teens’ lives, as well as developing strong leadership skills in themselves. “I think Teen Council provides teens in our community with safe and fun ways to enjoy themselves and to connect with other people their age,” he acknowledged. “I was very involved in high school leadership groups; however, I can definitely say I learned more about leadership and teamwork from Teen Council than any other group I participated in.” His absolute favorite Teen Council memories were made when working at the “I Cared Enough” event. “This event always took place before Thanksgiving and we helped put together bags filled
with groceries for homeless and other people who were struggling in downtown Birmingham, then served them Thanksgiving lunch.” This leader is choosing to invest in the next generation of Teen Council because it was something he was very passionate about and which he truly believes is a positive part of the Alabaster community. His role with Teen Council this year is to help provide any resources the council might need to successfully host their events. He will be communicating with city officials or any other organizations that might be of assistance. He identified what this year’s Teen Council needs most during this upcoming school season – more than anything – is patience. “We want life to return to normal as soon as possible so we can continue to host events. However, that can’t happen until COVID starts to get better. So, I encourage everyone reading this to be careful and to do your part to help us get back to normal!” AC
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NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT
3R D A N
NUAL
The 3rd Annual Shelby Humane Derby Party will be held at Siluria Brewing Company in Alabaster on Saturday, September 5th from 3-6 p.m. Tickets include beverage tokens, hors d’oeuvres catered by Taziki’s and K & J’s Elegant Pastries, live music by the 3 More Miles Band and the opportunity to win great prizes! Don’t forget your biggest hat and most dapper suit! All proceeds from the Derby Party will support the important work of Shelby Humane. This nonprofit organization serves the Shelby County community through animal education, rescue and adoption, animal overpopulation awareness and solutions, veterinary bill assistance, disaster response and even through programs providing pet care for victims of domestic violence.
TICKET PACKAGES: $25 – General admission: 1 ticket and 1 beverage token $60 – VIP: 2 tickets, 2 beverage tokens, and 2 entries for the race drawing $290 – Group: 8 tickets, 16 beverage tokens, and 8 entries for the race drawing Monetary donations will be accepted at the event. Simply text “SHELBY” to 41444 and use “Derby Donation” as the note. This year the party is hosted by The Dixie Flyers, a Birmingham based flyball club. Flyball is a dog sport in which two teams of four dogs race relay-style in parallel lines. The relay includes four hurdles, retrieving a ball from a spring-loaded box and returning to their handler. The Dixie Flyers Club gathers weekly for practice sessions and hosts five local tournaments a year. In an effort to further support Shelby Humane, the Dixie Flyers have arranged a gift basket drawing of baskets valuing anywhere from $200 to $570! Featured themes are Alabama & Auburn Football, Kentucky Derby, Automotive, Doggy, Kitchen and Wine & Cheese. Keep an eye out for the Derby Party Event Page on Facebook to learn how to enter the basket drawings! You’ll want to get your entries in quickly before slots fill up! For more information about how you can support Shelby Humane’s Derby Party or to purchase tickets, visit ShelbyHumane.org or the Derby Party Facebook Page. AC
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CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT Ensuring equal opportunity to athletics in all respects is important to Marie. From 1982 to 1994, she accepted the challenge of being Alabama’s first state coordinator and training director for Alabama Special Olympics in Montgomery which allowed her to be involved with fundraising, program and training development, and public relations. She had the privilege of serving on Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s committee to improve training methods for special children.
THE POWER OF SERVING OTHERS
Getting to know community servant Marie Jordan “If you are going to do something, be sure you finish it and do it well.” This was the advice that Marie Jordan’s father gave her as she was growing up the oldest of three girls in Geneva, Alabama. This mantra has remained with this community-minded woman as she went on to pursue exemplary and extensive professional careers in real estate, public health, politics, music, athletics, business and education.
DOING WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE When speaking with Marie, her eyes sparkle as she talks about the value of being involved in her community. She has always felt strongly about stepping up whenever she saw something that needed done in her community or extending a hand to a person in need. That’s where her passion for volunteering began. “My first job was in 1966, working in a grocery store. Instead of just being content as a cashier, I volunteered for training in the meat department, produce department and stockroom. I wanted to learn every aspect of how it worked and to help out.” Discovering all the moving parts and pieces of a business also served as a launching pad for Marie to take on more
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leadership roles, as well. “After graduating in 1968, I joined the volunteer rescue squad in Geneva while pursuing her education goals. When the State mandated that squads must have an EMT to operate their service, I became the first person to be certified until we could get others qualified.”
STEPPING UP TO THE PLATE Athletics is another of Marie's multifaceted passions. She organized her hometown’s first women’s softball recreational league and was the first woman softball officials in her area and continued to expand her officiating into numerous sports. She currently officiates volleyball. “During my teaching tenure and coaching career, I became athletic director for Ozark City school for girls and began the task of developing sports such as volleyball and basketball. I served on the first Alabama High School Athletic Association committee for implementing Title IX (a federal law that makes it illegal to discriminate against a person on the basis of gender in any federally funded activity).” She admitted she wasn’t given much encouragement in this effort at the time, “In fact, we were told it will never get off the ground.” But now, she just smiles and says, “’We've come a long way, baby’.”
ARRIVING IN ALABASTER In 1995, Marie relocated to her now-hometown of Alabaster as the city's first Parks and Recreation director from 1995 to 2005. In this role she developed plans and proposals for Buck Creek Trail and established the Parks and Recreation ordinances. Also, in partnership with generous donors and volunteers, Marie secured grants for the addition of three soccer fields for public use and started the first soccer league which expanded rapidly to be one of the most successful sports programs. Unfortunately, a serious back injury cut her professional career short. She endured more than four surgeries and numerous procedures that thankfully kept her out of a wheelchair. After three joint replacements and three victorious battles against a persistent cancer, she began the long, painful fight back to health in order to resume her volunteering journey. She acknowledges that the effort is difficult some days due to nerve damage, but she still gratefully says, “What a blessing to still be able to say, ‘What can I do next to make things better for my community?’.”
CONTINUING TO SERVE THE CITY Marie currently serves on numerous boards that strive to make this community better. She is the Beautification Board chairman, which recognizes the people
CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT
who go that extra step to manicure and clean up their yards. “We appreciate Board their efforts that show they care about how their properties are adding to the beauty in our city.” Marie was recently elected as chairman of the Abatement Board and also serves as vice president of the Maple Ridge Homeowners Association. She is proud to work alongside councilman Stacy Rakestraw to encourage environmental stewardship in the community by developing the Re-Cycle Program and implementing the Clean Sweep campaign every April. “We added a component to reach children with this mission by teaming up with the people against litter state (PALS) group, to promote a poster and recycle art contest during Clean Sweep last year.” Marie is a strong believer of programs and activities advocating environmental awareness and action. “It is especially important for children to have opportunities to understand the importance of being litter-free, having clean air and water, saving natural areas, etc. and how this leads to a healthy community,” she insisted. She served on Montevallo’s children’s Nature Camp staff that promoted all aspects of the importance of our natural surroundings. She also gets into the Christmas spirit by encouraging people to be visually creative with their decorations and to participate in Alabaster's annual Tour of Lights each holiday season.
She feels that her own success is due to having a strong faith and working with many professionals and mentors whose influence and encouragement offered her many opportunities personally and professionally to have various careers, businesses and volunteer experiences. When Marie takes a moment to relax, she enjoys her extensive music collection and feeding her many birds and squirrels in her backyard. Seeing Hope for the Future Marie believes Alabaster’s future looks bright and promising. “I know the pandemic has affected the tax revenue coming in, but I feel confident the building plans in the works such as the new Justice center, recreational expansions, strong school system, etc. will continue to bring people to our city,” she stated. “I am looking forward to continue working with the new administration, and all the good volunteers I serve with on the various boards, I'm on. I feel so grateful to be a part of making things happen, rather than finding myself wondering, ‘What just happened?’,” she said with a smile. “I wish to thank Mayor Handlon, city council members and numerous volunteers I had the pleasure to work with for being so supportive with projects and for dedicating many hours to making our city a great place to work or live,” she expressed. In closing, she asks everyone to, “…give a smile and make a difference by doing simple acts of service and kindness!” AC
AROUND TOWN
PARKS GETTING MASSIVE IMPROVEMENTS Alabaster held two groundbreaking ceremonies celebrating the expansion of two city parks: Veteran’s Park off of Hwy 119 and Abby Wooley Park located off of Hwy 11. Veteran’s Park is seeing a new entrance way built, five more athletic fields and improved traffic flow and control. This expansion has been in the works for over two years. The total cost will be divided between the city and county. Abby Wooley Park is getting the largest investment in the park's history. It will include renovation and the expansion of the basketball court, increasing length of the walking paths, upgraded playground equipment, a new restroom facility and upgrades to the pavilion.
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KAREN BLACK
Karen.backinblack@outlook.com (205) 532-7770 106 1st Street SW Alabaster, AL 35007
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TEEN COUNCIL FUNDRAISING SUCCESS The Alabaster Teen Council made charitable donations to the following charities. The funds are raised by the Teen Council by selling concessions at various teen events. The organizations selected by the teen council all have an impact on children and teens in Alabaster.
Riley Ward - Mitchell's Place Preschool (not pictured) Dylan Garwick - Alabaster Parks & Recreation Department receiving the check is Park and Recreation director Tim Hamm. Jasmine Jones - Alabaster City Schools After School Care Program presented the donation to Lacey Aman and Ashley May. Noah Tanner - Neighborhood Bridges presented the donation to Dr. Dorann Tanner.
Riley Ward
Jasmine Jones
Noah Tanner
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AROUND TOWN
The Branch
At Mission Hills Brook Lovett, Senior Pastor Church Brook@ thebranchatmissionhills.com 205-296-7342
Kent Robbins, Associate Pastor of Worship Kent@thebranchatmissionhills.com 615-478-6379
You are invited to join us
SUNDAY MORNINGS in August at 8:30 AM for
DRIVE-IN WORSHIP
at The Branch at Mission Hills Church. *To watch services online, visit facebook.com/TheBranchatMissionHills or our church website at www.thebranchatmissionhills.com
The Branch at Mission Hills 1669 Mission Hills Road, Alabaster, AL 35007 www.thebranchatmissionhills.com Church Phone 205-358-8680
I am the vine; you are the branches. John 15:5a
Jon Kelton
IRT-1848E-A
Financial Advisor
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6919 Hwy 119 Suite 300 Alabaster, AL 35007 205-621-0888
cityofalabaster.com
edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
AROUND TOWN
ALABASTER HEALTH FAIR POSTPONED UNTIL SPRING 2021 The City of Alabaster cares about the health and safety of our residents and all Alabamians. In the best interest of the community, the Alabaster Health Fair originally scheduled for Saturday, August 15th is being rescheduled in the Spring 2021. Please look for more details in future editions of the Alabaster Connection and on the City of Alabaster’s website www.cityofalabaster.com.
AUGUST RESIDENTIAL BEAUTIFICATION WINNER Maxine & Eddy Kirkland 100 Old Spanish Trail Alabaster, AL This property is on a corner lot located in the Mission Hills subdivision. It is beautifully maintained with special care to edging and detail. Azaleas are in mulched beds across the front of the house. There are two beautiful plantings of white hydrangea and smaller plantings of annuals which provide color. This is truly a work of love and is an outstanding inspiration for this neighborhood.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (ABRIDGED) Unabridged version of minutes and resolutions/ordinances can be found on the city webpage at www.cityofalabaster.com. June 1, 2020 at 7 PM Absent: Greg Farrell (4), Kerri Pate (7) A quorum was present. AGENDA ITEMS: 1. Resolution 060120 Authorizing Vehicle Purchase for Environmental Services Motion Passed 2. Resolution 060120-A Authorizing Purchase of Water Reclamation System for Waste Water Treatment Plan Motion Passed 3. Resolution 060120-B Granting an Easement Request from Alabama Power for Electric Vehicle Charging Station Motion Passed 4. *Ordinance 20-97 An ordinance to rezone property of Dewey and Louise Glass, Alabaster Water Board (now owned by Commercial Development Authority), Salvation Army (Georgia Corp) from B-3, Community Business District to B-3/Co, Community Business District/conditional
Motion Passed 5. *Ordinance 20-99 An ordinance to alter and rearrange the corporate limits of the City of Alabaster, Alabama Motion Passed 6. *Ordinance 20-100 An ordinance to repeal and replace previous Article IV. - Weeds Motion Passed 7. *Ordinance 20-101 An ordinance to repeal and replace previous Article II. – Health Nuisances Generally Motion Passed 8. *Ordinance 20-102 An ordinance of the City of Alabaster to modify Chapter 10, Civil Emergencies and to repeal all ordinances and parts of the ordinances of the City of Alabaster in conflict therewith Motion Passed The meeting adjourned at 7:19 PM.
June 15, 2020 at 7 PM Absent: Stacy Rakestraw (3) AGENDA ITEMS: 1. Resolution 061520 Authorizing Enterprise Fund Budget Adjustments Motion Approved 2. Resolution 061520-A Awarding Unit Bid for Wastewater Pumps and Control Panels for Environmental Services Department Motion Approved 3. Resolution 061520-B Authorizing Purchase of Handrails for the Waste Water Treatment Plant Motion Approved 4. Resolution 061520-C Grant Easement to AWB for Police Dept Building Project SR119 Motion Approved 5. Resolution 061520-D Awarding Bid for Renovation of Abby Wooley Park Motion Approved 6. Abby Wooley Park Easement Request Granting an easement for power
related to the Abby Wooley Park new restroom facility. Motion Approved 7. Resolution 061520-F Lighting Agreement with Alabama Power for Abby Wooley Park Motion Approved 8. Resolution 061520-G Authorizing a Lighting Agreement with Alabama Power for Lighting at Enclave at Cedar Grove Subdivision. Motion Approved 9. Resolution 061520-H Authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding for the 2020 Health Fair Motion Approved Council Meeting Adjourned at 7:47 PM * Public Hearing on these Items ** Set Public Hearing on these Items
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CALENDAR
CALENDAR LIBRARY The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Mon., Tue. and Thu.: 9 am - 7:50 pm Wednesday: 10 am - 5:50 pm Friday: 9 am - 5:50 pm Saturday: 10 am - 4:50 pm Sunday: 1 pm - 4:50 pm
If you would like more information concerning programs, please contact the Library at 664-6822.
CHILDREN FINISH THE IMAGINE YOUR STORY SUMMER CHALLENGE Youngsters kept their reading skills sharp by reading books during the Imagine Your Story Summer Challenge at the Albert L. Scott Library. Children of all ages earned prizes and received a certificate when they finished the challenge. The 7-week program featured more than 50 entertaining
the finale. Winners were: Logan C. who won the $100 gift certificate, $40 helmet and t-shirt from Bike Link in Hoover; Anna G. who won a Bag of Fun, Dylan S. who won a Bag of Fun; Katie P. who won Air Pods and Preston P. who won a Bag of Fun. We thank our sponsors: Bike Link, Panda Express, and Whataburger.
WEEKLY PROGRAMS Toddler Tales Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Facebook Only Sensory Story Time 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. Facebook Only Outreach Storytime Wednesdays, 10:15 a.m. at area day care centers
ADULT PROGRAMS ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES Call 205-664-6822 or come by to sign up. August 4, 10 a.m. Introduction to Publisher 2019
Learn how to create brochures, programs and other graphic based documents. August 11, 10 a.m. Introduction to Microsoft Word 2019
Understand the basic functions and commands that are available in Word as well as formatting and editing documents. Lucky drama participants won fun gift bags during the last session of the Drama Workshop with Darrell Revel on July 14.
and educational programs in person and on the library’s Facebook page. There was a Magical Storybook Ending with Mr. Larry Magic and Miss Jennie’s Balloon Sculpting on July 17 that closed the book on the challenge. It celebrated the summer reading accomplishments of children during the Summer Challenge on July 15. Prize drawings were part of
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cityofalabaster.com
August 18, 10 a.m. Basic Computer Skills
This class is designed for beginners. Introduces students to starting the computer, navigating the desktop and file management.
you are interested, you may email us at yayayarners@gmail.com and we can send you a link or give you more information. Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to learn how? If so, this is the group for you… the Ya Ya Yarners! We will teach you if you don’t know how. We will start you with one of two simple projects. We will supply the needles or hooks and yarn and a pattern. If you already have a project under way bring it along to work on. We also do community projects such as hats for service members, lap blankets, prayer shawls and many other things, plus we have a really good time. We hope you will join us! Program takes place in the meeting room.
TAI CHI FOR HEALTH Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. starting August 5
Join us as local instructor Rachel Hickman teaches an 8-week course in Tai Chi. Tai Chi is an exercise that improves balance, sharpens the mind, boosts the immune system, and circulates oxygen throughout the body while gently massaging all the joints, ligaments and muscles of the entire body. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and flexible, flat-soled shoes that encompass the foot. Try not to miss any classes because each class builds upon the previous ones. Newcomers will not be allowed after the second class takes place. Program takes place in the meeting room. Participants must complete the Enrollment Form at the front desk before the first class.
ABC & DS OF MEDICARE August 10, 1 p.m.
YA YA YARNERS August 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31. 5:30 p.m.
The Ya Ya Yarners are meeting at the Albert L. Scott Library now! Due to Covid-19 we are having to limit the number we can have at the library. If
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. Program takes place in the meeting room.
CALENDAR LIBRARY BOOK GROUP
ONLINE ARTHRITIS EXERCISE
August 20, 7 p.m.
Wednesdays & Fridays, 10:30 & 12:30
Join us to discuss June by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore. Twenty-five-year-old Cassie Danvers is holed up in her family’s crumbling mansion in rural St. Jude, Ohio, mourning the loss of the woman who raised her—her grandmother, June. But a knock on the door forces her out of isolation. Cassie has been named the sole heir to legendary matinee idol Jack Montgomery's vast fortune. How did Jack Montgomery know her name? Could he have crossed paths with her grandmother all those years ago? What other shocking secrets could June’s once-stately mansion hold? Program takes place in the meeting room.
MEDICARE 101 August 27, 6 p.m.
A fun and informative class to learn what to expect with Medicare and how to ask the right questions. Perfect for anyone wanting to learn about their Medicare options. Presented by Paige Phillips, an agent of Medicare Advisors of Alabama. Program takes place in the meeting room.
SENIOR CENTER
The Alabaster Senior Center, which is operated by the Alabaster Parks and Recreation Department, offers a variety of programs and services for individuals 55 years of age and older who live in Shelby County. The Senior Center is located at 1097 7th Street S.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Events for members of the Alabaster Senior Center are listed below. All subject to change and you must call ahead 205-663-1307 or belder@cityofalabaster. com. Check Facebook for updates!
SPECIAL EVENTS August 3 - Stop by the Senior Center
for some Watermelon as we celebrate “National Watermelon Day”! August 7, 9:30-10:30 a.m. - Biscuits and Tea with Jim N’ Nicks August 11, 10:30 a.m. - Stretch Your Brain August 20, 12:00 p.m. - Tech Talk Live August 24, 9:30 a.m. - Book Club
PARKS & REC
Alabaster Parks and Recreation offers a variety of youth sports and a couple of adult programs, along with several community events throughout the year. Additionally, they oversee pavilion rentals for all City parks. The Parks and Recreation Office is currently located at 200 Depot StreetHours of operation are Monday thru Friday from 8:00 a.m until 5:00 p.m. If you would like more information concerning Parks and Recreation programs, please contact the Office at 205-664-6840 or parksandrec@cityofalabaster.com. If you would like to receive emails from Parks and Recreation regarding registrations and events, you can sign up by going to www.alabasterparks.org and scrolling down the page to the SIGN UP link. The only required information is your name and email address. 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.
ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION On-Line Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on August 3 at 8:00 a.m. and end on August 22 at 11 p.m. Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on August 3 at 8:00 am and end on August 21 at 5:00 pm at the Alabaster Parks and Recreation Office. Fee is $180.00. No registration form accepted without payment in full. Three leagues will be offered: Coed, Men’s Open, and Men’s Church. Leagues will begin play in September. For more information, please contact Nik McCrimon at 664-6840 or nmccrimon@cityofalabaster.com
OUTDOOR RENTAL FACILITIES On-Line Pavilion Rentals – available at www.alabasterparks.org
Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for events such as picnics, family reunions and birthday parties. The best way to ensure 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.
DOG PARK MAINTENANCE The Dog Park at Veterans Park will be closed on Wednesday, August 5, for maintenance. If needed, the Rain-Out date will be the following Wednesday, August 12. cityofalabaster.com
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CITY COUNCIL SOPHIE MARTIN, WARD 1 205-506-8961 martin@cityofalabaster.com
CITY OF ALABASTER 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 www.cityofalabaster.com 205-664-6800 MARTY HANDLON, MAYOR 205-664-6831 handlon@cityofalabaster.com
RICK ELLIS, WARD 2 ellis@cityofalabaster.com STACY RAKESTRAW, WARD 3 205-529-3326 rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com GREG FARRELL, WARD 4 farrell@cityofalabaster.com
RUSSELL BEDSOLE, WARD 5 205-229-6021 bedsole@cityofalabaster.com SCOTT BRAKEFIELD, PRESIDENT, WARD 6 205-915-4439 brakefield@cityofalabaster.com KERRI PATE, WARD 7 205-965-8300 pate@cityofalabaster.com
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 48 ALABASTER, AL
POSTAL PATRON
“Alabaster, as a fellow citizen I am asking for your vote on
Aug 4th. Lets bring Change to Montgomery”
Vote Aug 4
Vote for the Conservative with Experience
RUSSELL
BEDSOLE STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 49 www.RussellBedsole.com PAID FOR BY COMMITTEE TO ELECT RUSSELL BEDSOLE 417 STERLING PARK CIRCLE ALABASTER AL 35007