ALABASTER
CONNECTION THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF ALABASTER | FEBRUARY 2018
Alabaster Library:
Serving Everyone, Everyday pg. 12
HEART HEALTHY TIPS
A NIGHT TO SHINE PROM
VALENTINE'S DAY IDEAS
pg. 6
pg. 8
pg. 10
Grace Community School Our Preschoolers Can Read!
Exceeding Typical Daycare Without Exceeding the Cost!
INSTEAD OF DAYCARE, WHY NOT SCHOOL? www.TheWhaleSchool.com TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN PELHAM 8777 Helena Road, Pelham 769-6209 200 Ridge Drive, Pelham 621-0442
No Registration Fee Limited Time Offer
What Parents Say about Grace Community School Grace Community not only met all of my criteria, they exceeded them! I can’t tell you what peace of mind it gives you to know your child is well taken care of and loved! My daughter was at Grace Community for four years... they became like an extension of our family. All of the employees at the school are helpful & accommodating. My daughter memorized Scripture and regularly heard Bible stories that taught her character development. She was taught to make good choices and received positive reinforcement through the use of a classroom behavior chart and “badges.” She also learned her academic fundamentals and is excelling at her current elementary school. Our experience at Grace Community was a wonderful one and I would highly recommend it! - LaShawn Plott, GCS&D Parent
FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK 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 Heather Leavell Lindsay Schluntz Megan Owens Lynn Barnett We welcome your comments & suggestions. Call 447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com
To advertise call 447-2214 Non-Emergency City Numbers
Welcome to what is usually the coldest month of the year! I’m hoping January successfully claimed that title this year. However, if January set the standard for February’s follow up, we will certainly need to huddle up and hunker down! My expectation of winter in good ole Alabama is short and mild. If the opposite is true, please be safe with your space heaters and fireplaces, and keep a check on Marty Handlon, Mayor the elderly, shut-ins, and pets. City of Alabaster I want to take this opportunity to expand on a recent article regarding red light cameras being considered by the city. We received many texts, emails, and calls since the article was published. I brought this idea to the city council for consideration after being approached by a vendor, and there are several reasons I felt it was something worth discussing. First, we get numerous emails and calls, on a regular basis, expressing concerns about traffic violations and less than courteous drivers around three major intersections in our city: Hwy 119 & 31, and both intersections at Interstate 65. These intersections are extremely busy at various times of the day for extended periods of time. The intersection at Hwy 119 & Hwy 31 (both state roads) is constructed in a manner very difficult for officers to position themselves to see traffic in all directions. The intersections at the interstate are conducive for a patrol car to be visible during the rush hour traffic, but when they pursue a vehicle in violation, it can take more than half an hour to return to the intersection. Second, our community has experienced crime in which local businesses' parking lot cameras have assisted in police investigations. We are an interstate city and most of the crimes committed in our city are by people who come into our city from the interstate, and then leave by the interstate. In this day and age of technology, I thought it was time to consider using technology to help protect our community and citizens, as well as encourage courteous driving. The cameras capture violations, and the violators pay a fine. The footage is also available for detectives to review in cases of criminal investigation. There is no upfront cost to the city and revenue produced by these measures would be insignificant, especially as drivers developed more courteous and compliant driving habits. The idea did not receive much support during initial discussions, so it may just be another one of those that come and then go away. I love the balance we have in local government. I am in day-to-day operations, so I see and hear more issues & needs on a daily basis from our citizens. The Council provides a balanced look at ideas presented--knowledgeable but removed enough to give a different perspective. It gives us confidence ideas are well vetted in our process. We do believe ideas brought to us as successes in other cities deserve a conversation. I am proud to report Alabaster’s transition to city garbage service went well. Our public servants went above and beyond to provide excellent customer service, despite the service provided by outside vendors and the number of people confused by the transition instructions. They made extra trips to neighborhoods in the first couple of weeks for people confused about their service day. I am extremely happy they all continue to show up to work every day to serve our citizens, in what is sometimes a thankless profession. I am proud of them and their dedication. “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV) Happy Valentines’ Day Alabaster—Love your neighbor as yourself,
Police 24-Hours 663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818
1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 ©2018 City of Alabaster
2018-2019 ALABASTER TEEN COUNCIL APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT WWW.CITYOFALABASTER.COM. SELECTIONS WILL BE MADE IN MARCH.
THIS EDITION
FEATURES
SPOTLIGHTS
4 Council Comments 24 Around Town 26 Calendar 30 CC Meeting Minutes
6 Heart Healthy Tips 8 A Night to Shine Prom 10 Valentine's Day Ideas 12 A day at the Library
16 Business Spotlight 18 Alabaster Helps 20 Citizen Spotlight 22 Employee Spotlight
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Scott Brakefield
Ward 6 | City Council President Greetings! How about our Alabama weather. 17 degrees one day. A few days later it is approaching 70. Only to get cold again. I hope everyone got a chance to enjoy the snow. Its not often in Alabama that we get to see the white stuff multiple times in just a few short weeks. I would like to thank APD and our Public Works Department for their work during our weather events. They work extra hours to make sure our roads are safe to drive during these times. I would also like to give additional recognition to our Public Works Department for handling the transition to our own City Garbage Service. They have worked extremely hard to provide the best service. It isn't easy starting something new on short schedules (weather, holidays) but they have done their best and I believe they have done a wonderful job. Just
Sophie Martin Ward 1
Progress continues in Ward 1. Blair Pharmacy recently opened their doors for business and are conveniently located to serve Ward 1 residents. They are located at the corner of Highway 11 and Weatherly Club Drive next to Joe’s Italian. We are glad to have them in our area and proud they chose Alabaster for their place of business. A public hearing was recently set by Alabaster City Council to approve the demolition of the burned structure located off Highway 11. The public hearing is set for Monday, February 12 at 7 p.m. The Abatement Board recently approved this structure for demolition. This eyesore and unsafe building will be removed in the very near future. Please plan to attend a Ward 1 community meeting scheduled for Monday, February 5, 7 p.m. at Liberty Baptist Church. These meetings are excellent opportunities to update residents about what is currently going on in Ward 1 and also to address any questions or ideas residents may have. One topic of discussion will be latest information on the District 31 development. I look forward to seeing you there! I am honored to serve as your councilperson. If you have any ideas or questions regarding Ward 1 or our city, please feel free to contact me at martin@cityofalabaster.com or call 506-8961. Kindest regards, Sophie
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one reminder that will help those guys out. When putting your trash cans out for pick up. Please make sure to leave a good bit of space in between the cans. This makes pick ups a lot easier and less time consuming. If they are close together the driver has to get out of the truck, separate the cans and then pick them up to be dumped into the truck. This slows down operations and impacts their ability to reach everyone on a given day. Spring is right around the corner and our team at Parks and Rec is busy getting our youth signed up for baseball, softball and soccer. They are also busy making sure our parks a ready to host our community for games, exercise and overall enjoyment of the outside as temperatures start to warm in Spring. Lastly, if you are looking to get involved in the city I encourage you to check out all the Boards that you can serve on. The city website has a link to all the boards that you can serve on and how to apply. Until next time!
Rick Ellis
Ward 2 I hope that everyone is doing well and survived the most recent winter storm. I don’t know about anyone else, but I am ready for spring time and warm weather. I want to thank the Alabaster Police Department and the Alabaster Fire Department for the long hours that they put in during these types of weather events, to keep us all safe on the roadways and in our neighborhoods. We have just recently completed registrations at the Parks and Rec department for our spring sports. Our Parks and Rec department does a fantastic job giving the kids in the city an opportunity to get outside and learn the life lessons that team sports can teach. In January, the Alabama Department of Transportation had scheduled the beginning of the widening project on I-65 between Alabaster and Pelham. This will be a long process, but, in the end, should make our morning commute significantly easier. Please remember to drive carefully and patiently during this process. I hope that everyone has a happy Valentine’s Day, and if you have questions, concerns or ideas for Ward 2, please feel free to contact me at ellis@cityofalabaster.com. Rick
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Stacy Rakestraw
Ward 3 I am so proud of the Thompson Wrestling program and how they are dominating once again. Congratulations on the big wins against Prattville, Hoover, and Auburn. Save these dates to come watch them: Feb. 9-10 - Super Section Tournaments (Birmingham & Montgomery); Feb. 15-17 State Tournament (Huntsville). It looks like another state title is in clear view and as they say, #LiveRightPrayWorkHard! With our revenue up, we approved the purchase of a Pumper Truck and a Service Crane Truck for Environmental Services that were already in this year's budget. This department does an excellent job managing our wastewater treatment, sewer lines (100 miles of the main line and 200 of secondary lines), plus maintaining 48 pump stations. The plant can process 7.6 million gallons of wastewater per day. Also, we are beginning to see how much revenue we will have from our oil and gas tax so we can prioritize needed road paving in the City and how much we will be able to do this year. This tax can only be used for road improvements. The Alabaster Clean Sweep is coming up in April. Our annual Shred-it and E-cycle event will be on April 14, 8am - 12pm at Thompson Intermediate on Hwy 119. Start planning your volunteer litter pick-up groups to help clean up around the city. Big congratulations to a sweet friend, Michelle Pendleton, for being named Alabaster City Schools Bus Driver of the year for 2017-2018! Stacy
Greg Farrell Ward 4
As many of you have seen, the signs and barrels on I-65 represent the widening project of the interstate from the Alabaster exit to the Pelham exit - it is finally going to happen. A great fundraising opportunity is coming up on March 3, 2018. The Angel Warriors Foundation will host their Annual “A Night for the Angels” Gala at the Hyatt Regency, (Winfrey Hotel) in Hoover. For ticket information, go to: angelwarriorsfoundation.org. The Council recently approved the purchase of a Fire Apparatus for the Fire Department. This will replace one of the aging fire apparatuses currently in use. The Department should take delivery of the unit towards the end of the year because the unit is custom made to meet the needs of the department, taking 10-12 months to build. This will be the first fire apparatus from the Sutphen Fire Company for the department.
Russell Bedsole Ward 5
A little over a year ago, while asking for your vote to serve you on this Council, I used the slogan “Leadership through Service”. I thought hard about a slogan that effectively communicated to all of you who I am and what I stand for. The word service had a very big meaning. The type of service I had in mind, and what I am all about, extended well beyond Alabaster, Alabama. As I compose this month’s thoughts to you, I am hours from a flight to SERVE the people of Kenya. As a matter of fact, this will be my third trip, and in the month of February, my wife will embark on her sixth trip. Your support and prayers are always felt anytime either of us travel to this very beautiful country. We always promise to represent our City well while we share with others of this place we call home. There are numerous positive things happening in our city right now, and I could have used my comments this month to highlight so many of those things. Instead, this month’s theme from me is SERVICE to others. Alabaster, go be the face, hands, and feet and show the world what it looks like to SERVE.
Kerri Pate Ward 7
This is a perfect time to commend our Public Works Department for their outstanding effort to make sure our streets in Alabaster are in good condition for safe travel during winter events. They enabled those that had to report to work to have peace of mind, and it allowed our school buses to get back out there with no issues. This department also houses our garbage collection, and I have been thoroughly impressed with them. Whether you agree or disagree with our new city garbage service, these guys have done a stellar job making this transition. Hats off to our APD - they do a great job keeping us informed and safe - if you don’t follow them on Twitter, you should! I wanted to briefly talk to you about our work sessions. They are held bi-weekly, the week before a Council meeting. These sessions are informal, round table discussions with the Mayor, Council, City manager, City Attorney, department heads and anyone that has scheduled to come speak with us about ideas they may have or business opportunities for our city. From these sessions, we decide what will be on the upcoming council meeting agendas. I appreciate all of the emails and calls that I receive in opposition or support of something from my friends in Ward 7, so please join us for a work session if you have something to discuss. It is truly an honor to serve you and to call many of you my friends and neighbors. I am available if you need me at 205-965-8300. Kerri cityofalabaster.com
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FEATURE
HEARTHEALTHY TIPS
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ccording to the CDC Heart Disease in the United States kills about 610,000 people each year. Which is about 1 in every 4 deaths. It not only effect men but women equally suffer from Heart Disease. Over 730,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. We recently caught up with Dr. Munish Goyal, a Cardiologist with Heart South Cardiovascular Group PC in Alabaster. To ask asked him what the best tips are to keep a healthy heart
TIP #1 DIET
Dr. Goyal recommends two type of heart healthy diets. One is the Mediterranean Diet, which involves eating a high proportionally amount of fruits and vegetables, while limiting non-fish meats. The other diet is the DASH (Dietary approaches to stop hypertension) which is high in vegetables, whole grains, fruits while limiting sugar-sweetened foods and drinks along with red meat and added fats. “If you don’t do anything else just quit adding extra salt to your meals,” shared Dr. Goyal.
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TIP #2 TAKE YOUR MEDICINE
If you are prescribed a medication by your doctor/cardiologist keep taking them! If you are having problems with your meds speak to your doctor about them, there might be other options that help your heart with less severe side effects. “There are alternative you can use. Unless your doctor knows you are having a problem they cannot recommend another option,” Dr. Goyal stated.
FEATURE
TIP #3 QUIT SMOKING
While many young people are not taking up the habit of smoking it is still a leading cause of heart disease and a contributing factor. If you are not smoking don’t start! If you are smoking do everything you can to stop. It may take several attempts to accomplish the goal, but it is an important step to having a healthy heart. “Smoking,” shared Dr. Goyal, “is the number one preventable contributing factor in heart disease. Do everything you can to quit.”
TIP #4 EXERCISE
Heart healthy exercise is sustained exercise. You should be exercising at a sustained rate for 30-45 minutes at a time, for a total of 150-210 minutes a week at a minimum, according to Dr Goyal. You exercise not to lose weight but to be healthy. If you want to lose weight you have to watch your diet. “You can break it up in 20 in the morning and 20 in the evening if you must,” said Dr Goyal.
TIP #5 BE PROACTIVE WITH YOUR HEALTH
Don’t just wait for a problem to happen, get an annual exam and ask questions of your physician. Get a at home blood pres-
sure cuff and take your readings regularly and share the results with your doctor. If they change call their office, they might want to see you. “The results you get at home are a big factor in how I treat my patients,” Dr. Goyal stated. AC
KNOW THE SIGNS... according to the CDC.gov • Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back. • Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint. • Chest pain or discomfort. • Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder. • Shortness of breath.
FOR WOMEN THE SYMPTOMS OF A HEART ATTACK MIGHT BE: • unusual or unexplained tiredness • nausea or vomiting. Find out more at www.cdc.gov/heartdisease
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FEATURE
This is Your Time to Shine!
Community Baptist Church Hosts Annual ‘Night to Shine’ Prom
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ast February, Community Baptist Church in Maylene was selected to join the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine initiative, a beautiful, one-night prom experience, specifically for guests ages 14 and up who have special needs.
“This year, we are honored to host for our second time – along with 500 other churches from 16 countries – to celebrate over 90,000 kings and queens,” Mandy Mealer, CBC Night to Shine Coordinator, exclaimed. “We feel blessed to be a part of such a fast-growing worldwide ministry.” The event will be held on Friday, February 9th, from 6-9pm at the Community Baptist Church in Maylene. EXPERIENCING THE ROYAL TREATMENT Every guest of Night to Shine enters the complimentary
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event on a red carpet, complete with a warm welcome from a friendly crowd and paparazzi. Once inside, guests receive the royal treatment, including hair and makeup stations, shoe shine areas, limousine rides, corsages and boutonnieres, a catered buffet, karaoke, prom favors for each honored guest and, of course, the all-important dance floor! It all leads up to the moment when each guest is crowned King or Queen of the prom and receives a special video message from Tim Tebow.▶
FEATURE SUPPORTING ALABASTER’S SPECIAL FAMILIES “Through Night to Shine, we also honor the incredible parents, family members, and caretakers for their lifetime commitment to caring for their loved ones with special needs,” Mandy expressed, with deep gratitude. “We will provide these remarkable people with the opportunity to rest and enjoy a night off, knowing their loved ones are having an amazing time in a safe environment.” She shared that the church received numerous messages from the event attendees’ parents and caretakers last year, most expressing the same theme: gratitude for the opportunity to be able to relax and see their special loved one having fun and enjoying themselves, free from worry and judgement. “We were blessed last year with 50 guests, and are praying and believing this year we will welcome even more,” Mandy shared. THE MESSAGE OF THE MINISTRY Night to Shine is more than the limo rides, red carpets, fancy dresses, and the shiny shoes. It’s extraordinary because the guests, each with various special needs, realize – some for the very first time – that they’re worth it. Her eyes sparkling with emotion, Mandy explained, “The guests are each told they’re special and that they’re loved. And at the end of the night, when each and every one of them is crowned King or Queen of the prom, they go home knowing that God loves them and has a special, unique, and purposeful plan for their life.” “I think many people take ‘normal’ things for granted, like a prom or special night out. But my daughter did not get to participate in many of these activities growing up,” shared one mom of a grown daughter with special needs. “I have never gotten to ride in a limo or walk the red carpet (myself ), but now my daughter has! And she will never forget, nor will I.” CHANGING HEARTS AND LIVES “Each person walks away from Night to Shine with a moment or a story of some way they were uniquely blessed,” Mandy said. “One of the young girls who participated as a ‘buddy’ during the event changed her entire college plan in the days that followed. She decided to study special education as a result of the impact the evening had on her heart!” Brother Bo, the pastor at Community Baptist, agreed. “It truly is a night that leads to memories that last a lifetime. It is a blessing for all who are involved.”
MOTIVATED BY LOVE Brother Bo explained that the motivation for hosting the special event for these guests and their families, is to simply share the love of Christ with those who have been given difficult life struggles. He went on to say that the event serves both guests and the volunteers who serve, “(Night to Shine) draws attention to the needs of the Special Needs community. So often there are needs that go unmet or struggles that are never seen. Second, it shows people that they can make a difference in the lives of others. This event will take over 100 volunteers just to happen. Too often, we want to serve but can’t see the opportunities. This event will show everyone who gives of their time that they can make a difference.” PARTICIPATE IN THE PARTY! To help make this Night to Shine an amazing event, donations are greatly appreciated and will go directly towards making the night truly memorable. “So many amazing local businesses made last year a huge success, and we look forward to welcoming even more to share in that this year.” The ministry also requests prayers from the community, that this event will be a blessing to all involved. “We look forward to an evening of joy, laughter, and an overall gathering that celebrates the value of life,” Brother Bo said. “It will create awareness of needs, opportunities to serve, and open everyone to a much bigger picture.” AC
NIGHT TO SHINE 6:00-9:00PM | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9TH Community Baptist Church 8254 Hwy 17 – Maylene, AL Pre-registration is available for guests at www.cbcmaylene.org/nighttoshine. Guests and families are also welcomed as walk-ins on the night of the event. A portion of the financial needs are granted by the Tim Tebow Foundation in order to cover their specific requirements. The rest comes from very generous sponsors and community donations. Anyone interested in contributing to this wonderful cause can contact Mandy Mealer at nighttoshinecbc@ gmail.com. cityofalabaster.com
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VALENTINE’S DAY 2018
Don’t forget to celebrate your fella on Valentine’s Day, too!
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h, Valentine’s Day - the holiday that celebrates love and relationships. Although most of the advertisements commercializing the holiday will feature sparkling, cuddly, aromatic and sweet gifts for the female half of the couple, don’t forget ladies - there are numerous opportunities here in Alabaster that you can take advantage of to remind your fella how special he is to you, too!
For the Food Experience Fan: Mizu Japanese Steak House
For dinner with a show, try the hibachi grill at Mizu. Whether for a special date night, or sharing the love with your kids, Mizu’s entertaining chefs customize and cook your meal on a large, sit-around, high-flame grill right in front of you! Choose from vegetables, rice, noodles, chicken, steak, seafood and more from the grill, or choose from the menu’s wide assortment of sushi or sashimi, teriyaki, tempura or hot noodle dishes. Mizu Japanese Steak House 750 Colonial Promenade Pkwy. www.MizuAlabaster.com
For the Craft Brew Fan:
Interstellar Ginger Beer and Exploration Co.
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Interstellar launched on September 9, 2017, and has quickly become a hot spot for craft brews and good times! Founders, microbiologist Dr. Shane Kelly and entrepreneur Daniel Sims, take an innovative, “where no man has gone before” approach to creating unique, gluten-free recipes that come with creative surprises. *SPOILER ALERT: think, glow in the dark drinks!* From open mic nights, Taco Tuesdays, and live music, to on-tap beers in the tasting room, and small batch special releases that reimagine the classics, you won’t want to miss out on discovering the finest small batch alcoholic ginger beer in the Universe! Interstellar Ginger Beer and Exploration Co. 260A Regency Park Dr. www.InterstellarGinger.com cityofalabaster.com
For the Local Live Music Fan:
Champy’s World Famous Fried Chicken Champy’s is known for its casual, cozy atmosphere, its southern comfort food fare, and its nod to local live music. You can’t go wrong with Champy’s fresh, made-to-order chicken, southern-style fried green tomatoes, and homemade Mississippi Mud Pie. Local talented musicians and bands perform live on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and you can give it your best shot on Monday nights during the weekly Open Mic Night! Champy’s 10695 Hwy 119 www.ChampysChicken.com
For a Night In:
DJ’s Fine Meats & Alabaster Spirits If you prefer a relaxing night in with a premium steak dinner and a glass of wine, visit DJ’s Fine Meats and Alabaster Spirits for a wide selection of favorites! DJ’s Fine Meats offers prime Hereford beef that’s fresh and never frozen – ribeye, filet, NY strip, sirloin or brisket. They also offer bacon, chops, Boston butts, ribs, sausages, seafood, and more! Text “DJS” to 22828 to sign up for special offers. Alabaster Spirits is located next to the Chevron on 119 near Veteran’s Park, and celebrated its ribbon cutting last summer. Open past 7pm, patrons can shop from a wide selection of wines and liquors even into the evening hours. Alabaster Spirits DJ’s Fine Meats 7645 Hwy 119 S 9414 Hwy 119 www.DJsFineMeats.com
For a Nostalgic Blast from the Past: Hooligans Family Fun
Recapture the fun from years gone by with an evening of black light mini-golf, pool, air hockey, pinball, and new or classic arcade games! Hooligans is a family-owned and operated Family Fun center that offers one of the largest selection of pinball tables in the greater Birmingham area! Pay once to play unlimited games, or bring your quarters for an affordable evening of competition, laughter and fun! Hooligans Family Fun 519 1st St SW www.HooligansFamilyFun.com
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A Day in the Life of at the Library
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f you’ve visited the Albert L. Scott Library at any time since 1992, I’m pretty sure you’ve seen me, but perhaps we’ve never met. So, let me introduce myself: I’m the large dictionary that sits on top of the bookshelf in the reference section. Unlike most of the books here, I never leave the library. But since the library boasts a yearly circulation of approximately 150,000 items, I have lots of ‘friends’ here on the shelves. The returned books, DVDs, and audio books share their plethora of stories with me about the places cityofalabaster.com
they’ve visited, in the vehicles of business men and women on their way to work, going with kids on vacations and holiday road trips, or just hanging out with Alabaster families in kitchens, living rooms, and on bunk beds. To be honest, I sometimes get especially jealous of the e-Books and e-Audio books, simply because anyone with a library card can access those from anywhere at any time…how cool is that?! GOOD MORNING, ALABASTER! Every day at the library is different
– different activities, different visitors, different volunteers. The best part of my day, though, is when I hear the lock turn in the door in the morning. That’s what lets me know that the fun is about to begin! I’m really looking forward to all the programs that the library staff has planned for this month. The team here has been working together for so long now, they’ve gotten really good at what they do! In fact, I regularly overhear moms and dads talking to each other, agreeing that they are grateful that Alabaster offers such fun and creative▶
FEATURE opportunities for their kids to learn here. Sometimes, I wish I had arms and legs, so I could hop down and join in, but that would probably freak the kids out a little. ACTIVITIES FOR THE LITTLE TYKES Speaking of kids, for as long as I’ve been sitting on these shelves, I’ve seen so many little kids become big kids, and big kids become adults. It’s a truly rewarding feeling for me to see those adults bringing their own little kiddos back into the library to experience their own special memories here. The library staff provides an abundance of special programming for these young readers, to help them develop a love of books and learning. Although I’ve only heard about the Outreach Story Times that are held in local daycare centers on Wednesdays, I’m a big fan of listening to the Tunes and Tales on Wednesdays in the meeting room. It’s a musical story time for all ages with Mr. Mac. The Toddler Tales programs on Friday mornings are special story times, for kids ages two and three, with Miss Jennie. Of course, the moms and dads check out the monthly Children’s Department Calendars on the library website for additional programs, but these are some of my weekly favorites! SERVING THE SENIORS The computer lab is situated right in front of me, so I’ll often watch kids playing computer games, students coming in to do homework, and adults working on all kinds of projects there. Sometimes, though, the older adults just stand and watch other people on these boxes of technology. They often look more than a little intimidated. That’s why the library offers computer classes on topics like Microsoft Office programs, how to use the Internet, and introductions to general computer usage. The seniors definitely look much less
confused at the end of these learning sessions. In fact, some of them have really gotten the hang of how to use programs like Microsoft Word, Power Point, e-Mail, and even Facebook! ‘TIS THE SEASON FOR TAXES If you looked up the word “taxes” in my pages, from the expressions on people’s faces when they talk about them, the definition might as well just say, “an inevitable season of stress.” However, the library staff attempts to provide a reprieve from that strain through their free AARP Tax Help for Seniors appointments. Starting this month through early April, these appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the meeting room for seniors who call or come by to sign up! Another program available for seniors discusses available Medicare options. Medicare seems awfully complicated to me, but this fun and informative class helps people learn how to ask the right questions to figure it out! The class is presented by Eric Smith, the founder of Medicare Advisors of Alabama, so you can be confident that you’ll be in good hands.
Then there are the Lego Clubs, the Homeschool Happenings, the Pete the Cat Book club (they’re making valentine cards this month!), the Magic Tree House Passport to Adventure, the American Girls Club, and the Family Time Tasty Tales! For more information, check out the Library schedule that shows up in this magazine, or visit the library website. I’d love to see your smiling face come check these out! THINGS THAT GO ‘BUMP!’ IN THE NIGHT Like I said, there’s always something going on here, even at night, when you would think all is quiet in the library. But that’s actually the time when my second-most favorite sound in the library occurs…the faint ‘thunk’ of a book being safely returned in the book drop right outside! That sound means that when those books are brought inside, they’ll have lots of new stories to share with me… maybe they’ll even tell me about their time away from the library with you! AC
ALBERT L. SCOTT LIBRARY 100 9TH STREET NW
I COULD GO ON AND ON… The meeting room is where a lot of creative community activities take place. They’re free and open to the public, so I get to see lots of you coming and going. For example, the Ya Ya Yarners just started gathering in the meeting room on Mondays from 5:30 – 7:30pm. They’d be happy to teach you how to knit and crochet! And this month, the library book group is reading “The Persian Pickle Club,” a magical, memorable novel by Sandra Dallas that explores the ties that unite women through good times and bad. I think you’d like it. You should come join in!
ALABASTER, AL 35007 WWW.CITYOFALABASTER. COM/384/LIBRARY-CALENDAR
LIBRARY HOURS MONDAY, TUESDAY, AND THURSDAY: 9AM - 7:50PM WEDNESDAY: 10AM - 5:50PM FRIDAY: 9AM - 5:50PM SATURDAY: 10AM - 4:50PM SUNDAY: 1 - 4:50PM
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INVESTING INTO THE FUTURE OF THE COMMUNITY Alliance Community Development secures physical location on MLK Jr. Road Community Development’s new resource center. Now approved for the building, she is hoping to start working on the necessary repairs at the end of February. “It will be a place that will provide higher education and adult education opportunities. We want to empower people, especially lower income people (those who are using the housing authority), to do financially better,” she said passionately. “It’s important to help break the mindset of poverty from one generation to the next generation.”
The 2017-2018 Alliance Community Development Youth Advisory Board members.
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henever you hear Pastor Danita Ryan’s name associated with an organization, you can be sure that the heart of that ministry is to serve the people of Alabaster. In addition to pastoring the Soldiers of the Cross (SOTC) ministry, she also leads a non-profit organization called Alliance Community Development. “Alliance Community Development is a non-profit organization that focuses on providing for the needs of the citizens in Alabaster and the surrounding communities,” she explained. “Our goal is to focus on homelessness, youth and adult education, transitional housing, Habitat for Humanity, etc.” ESTABLISHING A LOCATION With all the community services that the Alliance is planning to offer throughout 2018 and beyond, it was necessary for them to secure a facility separate from the SOTC building. “I’ve been operating the non-profit out of the ministry location, but I felt that I could be more effective if I had a separate, neutral location.” After the Kids First Awareness Community Learning Service relocated last year, their building at 100 Mt. Olive (MLK, Jr.) Road, sat vacant. Pastor Ryan determined to work with the Housing Authority to secure that facility for the Alliance
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OFFERING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EDUCATION The Alliance’s non-profit board is made up of local business owners, attorneys, citizens and pastors. All board members are well-connected to others in the community. With this growing network in place, the organization plans to offer a wide variety of classes and seminars for youth and adults. “It will also be a place where you can come to learn anything to help empower you to do better – how to do resumes, preparing for the GED, budgeting, home mortgage seminars, financial seminars, repairing credit, coupon classes, how to go about looking for jobs, perhaps learning a second language…” Another service that the organization will be providing is a unique partnership with the IRS that allows them to provide tax preparation services at no charge for anyone who makes $53,000 or less! “The program is through the IRS, and is called VITA,” she explained. “It’s the only one available through a nonprofit organization south of Birmingham. More information will be released about this important program soon!” RAISING UP PREPARED KIDS In addition to equipping parents and adults with necessary knowledge and advancement opportunities, Pastor Ryan is acutely aware of the day-to-day needs of the children in this community. “There are kids in this area who are not as fortunate as other kids,” she recognized. “Our ministry already likes to take them to experience places that they may not otherwise get to see or do in the Montgomery and Birmingham area. But with this non-profit, we’ll be accepting applications for a certain number of kids to help them with after-school tutoring and such, as well.” This application opportunity will be available to lower ▶
FEATURE income children in Shelby County, with a goal of eventually establishing a pre-kindergarten to help prepare young kids for kindergarten. PARTNERING FOR PROGRESS Pastor Ryan is dedicated to seeing families succeed in the Alabaster community. However, she knows that it will take more than one person or one organization to see this happen on a large scale. For this reason, she chooses to work alongside other service-focused organizations, like Shelby Emergency Assistance, Jesus Works, SOTC, the United Methodist Church, and others. “One thing I’ve found, is that when you partner with other people, you can be more successful,” she insisted. “There are times that I can’t solve something, but with their help, maybe we can! I’m willing to work with anybody who can help me see that success happening with the things that have been put into my hands to do.” She defines this ‘success’ as simply planting a seed and seeing growth happen. “We just want to help educate the people and to help them understand the power of knowledge. Once you have knowledge and apply it, you can soar!”AC
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
LIVES IN ALABASTER
Construction & Remodeling Solutions of Alabaster
S
cott Lamoreaux and his wife, Amy, are longtime residents of the Alabaster community. With a successful career in sales under his belt, Scott decided to redesign his life by becoming a licensed home builder in 2004.
CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING SOLUTIONS, INC. A Veteran Owned Business - Alabama Home Builders License # 25126 Scott Lamoreaux, Owner | www.AlabasterContractor.com 205-332-1047 HOURS Mon - Fri: 7:00am - 5:00pm Sat: By appointment Sun: Closed
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RENOVATING A CAREER He started his first small construction company in 2004, but during the economic downturn, he decided to spend the next three years installing commercial cabinetry and millworks for several large construction companies in the eastern United States. The birth of his third child (of four!) inspired his next move, spending several months working for a high-end renovations and remodeling company in Mountain Brook. After two more years as a supervisor and sales rep for a large remodeler in Alabaster, Scott decided to branch out on his own again. Thus, Construction & Remodeling Solutions, Inc. of Alabaster was born! “Our mission is to change the perception of the industry by providing professional and courteous service from the initial visit to the final walk through,” Scott explained. “We offer fair pricing, quality craftsmanship, and clear communication and supervision from the owner during the entire project.” BUILDING DREAMS As the company owner, Scott takes great pride in the level of work that his team performs. He approaches all his clients’ projects with an eye for exactness and quality. ▶
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT explained. “We take great pride in working for our neighbors and we feel it creates a higher level of accountability and fosters long-term relationships.”
Even though it’s cold now, summer is coming! Prepare for warm sunny days ahead with a new deck from Construction & Remodeling Solutions, Inc. “An old wood deck is dangerous to walk on. Don’t deal with a damaged deck. We can design and install a custom deck at a price you can afford.”
He is a US Navy veteran (1989-1994), and served in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm where he earned The Navy Achievement Medal, Surface Warfare Specialist Designation, Presidential Unit Citation and Battle "E" 2x. He left the Navy with an Honorable Discharge. This theme of honor in Scott’s life is one of the reasons why he and his team make it a point to sit down with clients to learn their goals. He purposefully chooses to work closely with them during the planning stages of the project, so that he can provide them with a final result that they love. “We want to be the source for all of our clients’ remodeling needs. But if we don’t do it, I know who does!” he said with a helpful smile.
MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME Scott’s team of skilled general contractors are adept at projects like roof replacements, home additions, and remodeling kitchens, bathrooms and basements to make them more functional and beautiful. They ask questions that help them understand the family’s or business’s needs and then design a space that accommodates for them. “If your current space isn’t serving your functional or aesthetic needs, it’s time to consider investing in renovations,” he encouraged. If you’re looking for a trustworthy company to replace your worn kitchen countertops and cupboards, remodel your master bathroom into a spa retreat, rebuild your deck or enclosed patio to be an outdoor haven (away from the bugs!), redo your windows that let in too much cold air during the winter months, or make your house what you’ve always dreamed of, contact Scott at Construction & Remodeling Solutions, Inc., today! AC
"Our mission is to change the perception of the industry by providing professional and courteous service from the initial visit to the final walk through." - Scott Lamoreaux
INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY Since opening its doors in July of 2016, Construction & Remodeling Solutions, Inc. has enjoyed serving the Alabaster community. They consistently give back to the people around them through sponsorships with the THS teams, Angel Warriors and a variety of other local organizations. “We want to make sure the good citizens of our community know they have a reliable contractor in the area,” Scott
Expires:2/2018
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ALABASTER HELPS
HONORING FALLEN WARRIORS
ALABAMA FALLEN WARRIORS PROJECT HONORS LOCAL VETERANS LOST IN THE WAR ON TERROR
T
here are two deaths that occur for a military service member. The first occurs when he or she is killed. The second is when they are forgotten.
Mark Davis, Col. Lee Busby and the mother and father of Gunnery Sargent Murkerson
Preventing the second death is what motivates Mark Davis, a US Navy veteran, to help honor and remember the approximately 120 service men and women who have been lost in the line of duty in the War on Terror. “Having served at the close of the Vietnam war, I never really felt proud of my military service,” he admits. “It was not until 2007, when I was watching the news on a Saturday morning, when I saw several military service members had been killed, that I felt inspired to so something that would really honor the fallen.” He soon founded Vettes4Vets, a 501(c)3 non-profit, to raise money for veteran organizations and individual veterans in need. Through this foundation, he annually rents Talladega Superspeedway and sells laps around the track ($100 for 5 laps). To date, they have raised over $350,000! However, he desired to do more.
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Three years ago, while serving on the Aldridge Gardens’ Board of Directors, he developed the idea for a Veterans’ Memorial Arbor and Gateway Pentagon Plaza. He raised over $250,000 from individual donations and from in-kind donations from the City of Hoover, to develop a place of reflection and remembrance of all Veterans and to house three bronze busts of the first three young men from Hoover killed in action in the War on Terror – Ryan Winslow, Thomas Rivers and Andrew Hand. Marine Colonel Lee Busby, Retired, designed and sculpted the bronze bust of Hand. “After the dedication of the Veterans’ Memorial Arbor on November 6, 2016, Colonel Busby called and said, ‘I want to build one more,’” Davis recalled. “I asked him how many veterans from Alabama had been killed. He thought it was about 120. So, I said, ‘Let’s build all the rest of them!’ I founded the Alabama Fallen Warriors Project from there.”
ALABASTER HELPS “Then family usually helps decide where the bust might go. Some are installed at City Hall, some at the veteran’s high school, or at the library in their hometown.” Davis’s favorite part of the process is the dedication ceremony and the unveiling for all to see. “The smiles on the families’ faces (at the ceremony) are very heartfelt.”
"First, we pray that no more veterans are killed. Secondly, we hope to complete all the busts in less than 10 years." - Mark Davis Currently, there are about 111 busts remaining to be made. The plan is to build 10 in 2018 and in each year thereafter. “First, we pray that no more veterans are killed. Secondly, we hope to complete all the busts in less than 10 years.” Please consider supporting the mission of the AFWP, which is, “To ensure that generations to come, remember the sacrifices of Alabama’s Veterans who gave their lives in The War on Terror, following September 11, 2001.” AC
Andrew Hand - On display at Aldridge Gardens.Designed and sculpted by Colonel Lee Busby by the University of Alabama.
These 120 Alabamians killed in the line of duty were males and females, ranging from 18-year-old Privates to 54-year-old Colonels. They served in the Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard. They hailed from all across Alabama's 67 counties. Mark’s vision is that city, county and local state government legislators will help promote the AFWP to the businesses and individuals in their local communities. With their help, he then hopes to raise the tax- deductible donations of the $11,000 it costs for the production of each bronze bust, pedestal and plaque. The families of the fallen, once located, are involved in the process by providing photos of their loved one. After a clay model is completed by Col. Busby, the family then visits to share their memories and to provide their comments to help hone the design before it goes to casting. Once completed, the busts are to be installed in the fallen warrior’s hometown community, with appropriate ceremonies to honor the installations, or possibly a venue like the American Village.
HONORING AN ALABASTER SON One of the fallen warriors included in the 120 Alabamian lives lost during the War on Terror, is Army Reservist CWO-2 James Michael Butler from Alabaster. The AFWP is seeking information regarding CWO Butler’s family, so that a memorial bust can be created in his honor. Please contact Mark Davis with any information regarding the Butler family’s whereabouts. Once connected with the family, “The goal is for the community of Alabaster to come together to raise the $11,000 it will cost to design, sculpt and cast the bronze bust.” To contribute to the mission of the AFWP or to schedule Mark to come share with your organization or community group, please contact him at mkdavis@mindspring.com or 205-266-0632. cityofalabaster.com
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CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT
LOVING LIFE AND LIBERTY PASTOR AKEAM SIMMONS, PASTOR OF LIBERTY MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
I
f you ask Akeam Simmons where his favorite place to eat in Alabaster is, you’ll get a big smile and a very quick response: “LongHorn Steakhouse! I love the firecracker wrappers, you ought to try them!”
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Of course, his favorite people to have around the table with him as he enjoys those crispy, spicy, grilled chicken wraps, are his four kids, three grandkids, and his wife, Kimberly. But as the pastor of the Liberty Missionary Baptist Church for the past 15 years, Pastor Simmons’s and First Lady Kim Simmons’s ‘family’ extends well beyond their immediate relatives. “We’re a very loving church. That’s how visitors describe us,” he said warmly. “And prior to coming to serve here in Alabaster, I pastored another church in Birmingham.” With the purpose of reaching the young, the old, and everyone in between, the services at Liberty intentionally incorporate both contemporary and traditional elements. However, Pastor Simmons believes that a church should be more than just a Sunday morning worship experience. “The church should have a partnership with the community. It should make a difference as an active entity in the community,” he explained. Liberty Missionary Baptist Church aims to accomplish this cityofalabaster.com
through hosting a variety of activities and outreach programs that serve Alabaster citizens. Among these many efforts, there are weekly events for senior citizens and periodic community giveaways. “We bring clothes and shoes and invite people to come, shop, and get what they need of it, completely for free.” With the number of community members being served through the church, Pastor Simmons is thrilled that the church recently finished adding a new Family Life Center onto the building. Improving the lives of the people around him is something that Pastor Simmons is passionate about. Whether it’s helping provide access to educational opportunities, meeting tangible needs, or offering spiritual guidance, he’s ready to help. And given half a chance, he’ll certainly try to share a laugh or a smile, too. “I’ve got a pretty intense sense of humor,” he shared with a grin. “It’s not necessarily my jokes, but I’m just not as rigid as a lot of pastors are, being all serious. I think it takes a sense of humor to get by and through the day-to-day seriousness of life.” Pastor Simmons simply enjoys life. When he’s not with family or
CITIZEN SPOTLIGHT
New Family Life Center addition.
at the church, he loves playing chess, playing around on the guitar, and traveling. He is also a published writer. “I have written and published 18 books, including a novel series of four books, called the Grace Series,” he shared. “I also write selfhelp books. In fact, my last book was called Finding God’s Secret Place. It’s about how to come through trials and storms.” To find these and other books by Pastor Simmons, visit Barnes and Noble and Books-A-Million stores’ websites, or contact the church office at 205-663-0975. AC
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
LISA GLASGOW, DEPUTY CLERK
L
isa Glasgow has served the City of Alabaster for fourteen years. It’s a career that she imagined would be enjoyable, and has been thrilled to discover that she was right! I was very interested in dispatching and thought I would be good at it. I thought it couldn’t get boring with something always going on,” she explained. “It’s a rewarding job, because you are always assisting someone.” PARTICIPATING IN CITY GROWTH Alabaster has grown tremendously during Lisa’s time of employment. For her, it’s been exciting to see the growth and changes. “Behind the scenes, city business can move rapidly, although to citizens, it may seem that changes happen slowly,” she admitted. “There are just a lot of moving parts to make things happen.” A CAREER JOURNEY Her role with the City began in the Police Department Dispatch office in 2003. She then applied for the Administrative Assistant Position in 2005, which she held until 2016, when she became Acting Clerk. Shortly after Mr. Binzer, the new City Manager/Clerk was hired in 2017, Lisa was named Deputy Clerk. “As Deputy Clerk, I prepare work session items, council meeting items, take the minutes of both meetings, keep the official city files, and numerous other responsibilities,” she described. “With this position, as well as previous positions, there is never a dull moment. I enjoy the fastpaced work environment.” A PASSION FOR SERVING OTHERS One of the best parts of her job occurs when she gets to assist citizens. She has enjoyed working with the public throughout her career. “Sometimes people just need someone to listen and understand them. One of my best memories was years ago, when I assisted a citizen with a problem she was having. We became the best of friends,” she recalled.
ENJOYING THE GOOD LIFE As a resident of Alabaster, she truly believes Alabaster is the best place to live, work, and shop! When she’s not working, Lisa loves spending time with her husband, Tim, her two dogs, and a cat. She also enjoys woodworking, re-finishing furniture, and painting. “And I can’t forget to include camping! Tim and I both love camping and exploring new places. Often, we just pick a place that we’ve never been to and enjoy what the area has to offer.” AC
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CALENDAR
COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 6th Water Board 7 p.m. 7th Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. 5th School Board 5:30 p.m. 12th Council 7 p.m. 13th Housing and Abatement Board 5 p.m. 21st Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. 20th Board of Zoning Adjustments 6:30 p.m. 27th Planning Commission 7 p.m. 26th Council 7 p.m.
All meetings are held at 1953 Municipal Way in the Council Chamber. View full calendar, agendas and resolutions at www.cityofalabaster.com.
LIBRARY The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are: Mon., Tue. and Thu.: 9 a.m. - 7:50 p.m. Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 5:50 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m. - 5:50 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. - 4:50 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.
If you would like more information concerning programs, please contact the Library at 664-6822.
February 15, 7 pm
Join us to discuss The Persian Pickle Club by Sandra Dallas. It is the 1930s, and hard times have hit Harveyville, Kansas, where the crops are burning up, and there's not a job to be found. For Queenie Bean, a young farm wife, a highlight of each week is the gathering of the Persian Pickle Club, a group of local ladies dedicated to improving their minds, exchanging gossip, and putting their quilting skills to good use. When a new member of the club stirs up a dark secret, the women must band together to support and protect one another. In her magical, memorable novel, Sandra Dallas explores the ties that unite women through good times and bad. Program takes place in the meeting room.
MEDICARE 101 February 22, 6 pm
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 Eric Smith, the founder of Medicare Advisors of Alabama. Program takes place in the meeting room
you...the Ya Ya Yarners! We will teach you how if you don’t know, and we will start you with one of two simple projects. We will supply the needles or hooks and yarn and a pattern. We also do community projects, such as hats for service members, lap blankets, prayer shawls and many other things. We hope you will join us! For more information please call the library at 664-6822 or email Carol Smith at csmith@ shelbycounty-al.org. Program takes place in the meeting room.
FREE AARP TAX HELP FOR SENIORS February through early 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.
LIBRARY YOUTH EVENTS
All programs are in the Meeting Room behind the youth department. Children 6 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
STORY TIMES Wednesdays 10:15 a.m.
ABC & D'S OF MEDICARE
YA YA YARNERS
Outreach Story Time at area day care centers
Mondays 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Wednesdays 3:30 p.m.
February 12, 1 p.m.
Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to learn how? If so, we have a group for
Tunes & Tales for all ages in the meeting room
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.
ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822. February 5, 10 am
Microsoft Publisher 2013 February 10, 10 am
Microsoft PowerPoint 2013 February 19, 10 am
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LIBRARY BOOK GROUP
Computer Basics cityofalabaster.com
Fridays 10:30 a.m.
Toddler Tales for 2’s and 3’s in the meeting room
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS 2nd and 4th Mondays each month at 7 p.m. in the room at City Hall
FOR MORE ON THE CITY COUNCIL Visit www.cityofalabaster.com/161/City-Council
LOVE IS IN THE AIR! And for book lovers, we have the perfect book to help you escape the cold weather outside. Come see the Friends of the Library Book Room for your next great read. All books are $1 and children's books at 50 cents!
CALENDAR SPECIAL PROGRAMS:
ROCKETRY AND BLACK HISTORY
LEGO LEAGUE
February 20, 6-7:30 pm
February 6, 6-6:45 pm
Science educators Winfield and Elinor Burks return with their hands-on approach to helping kids learn and enjoy science and history. They have coproduced more than 50 programs in the metro area. Children in third grade and above can sign up for this session inspired by the true story behind the film Hidden Figures. Meets in the meeting room.
Kids of all ages can come play with bricks of all sizes. We have the bricks, you bring the imagination. The fun is in the meeting room. Kids age 6 and younger must be with an adult.
FRACTURED FAIRY TALES FRIDAY February 9, 4 pm
We’ll take a new look at Jack and the Beanstalk with kids in grades 1 and above. Please sign up. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult.
HOMESCHOOL HAPPENING: CHINESE NEW YEAR & MORE February 12, 10-11 am
Celebrate the Year of the Dog by learning about Chinese New Year, and China’s history and customs. Kids in grades 1 through 12 can sign up. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult. Session is in the meeting room.
PETE THE CAT BOOK CLUB, VALENTINES EDITION
AMERICAN GIRLS CLUB February 23, 4 pm
Enter Addy’s world of 1864 by taking part in an American Girls reader’s theatre. No memorizing will be necessary. The play is about Addy, age 9, who has escaped from slavery. There are six female roles and girls who aren’t actors can be in the audience – and so can their dolls! Family members can be in the audience, too but all children in the audience under age 7 must be with an adult. Girls 7 years old and older can sign up for the fun! Meets in the meeting room.
February 13, 6 pm
Boys and girls 5 years old and older can join in the fun of cool cats, reading, Valentine’s card making, and more during our meeting. Please sign up. Meets in the meeting room. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult.
MAGIC TREE HOUSE PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE: HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR! February 16, 4 pm
We’ll explore Day of the Dragon King by Mary Osborne and more. Kids in grades 1 and above can sign up.
FAMILY TIME TASTY TALES: HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR
PARKS AND REC NEW OFFICE LOCATION The Parks and Recreation office has moved to Veterans Park. Our physical address is now 7305 Hwy. 119, Alabaster, AL 35007. We are located on the far right side of the parking lot, in the modular building beside the Maintenance Shop. Our mailing address will continue to be 100 Depot Street, Alabaster, AL 35007. Office hours are Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. If you would like more information, call 205-664-6840 or visit www. alabasterparks.org.
STAY INFORMED BY EMAIL If you are not receiving 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. All you have to enter is your name and email address.
PAYMENTS 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.
February 27, 6 pm
It’s the Year of the Dog and we invite families to get together to listen and learn about Chinese New Year through stories and snack on some Chinese delicacies. Families with kids old enough to listen and eat Chinese food can sign up by February 26. All children must be with an adult. The fun is in the meeting room.
ARBOR DAY TREE GIVEAWAY February 24, 9 am
140 trees and seedlings will be given away at no charge on Saturday, February 24, at Veterans Park in the Maintenance Shop. Registration will begin at 8am. Tree distribution will begin at 9am.▶
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AROUND TOWN ADULT SOFTBALL REGISTRATION Registration for teams (not individuals) will begin on March 1 and end on March 31 at the Alabaster Parks and Recreation office located in Veterans Park as well as online at www.alabasterparks.org.
START SMART BASEBALL Registration will begin for Start Smart Baseball on February 12 at 8am at the Alabaster Parks & Recreation office located in Veterans Park. Registration will close once 20 children have registered, or at 5:00pm on February 23, 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 30, 2018. It is a six-week program with emphasis on fundamentals. The six week sessions will be held on Tuesdays at 6:00pm beginning April 3 and ending May 8. There will be a game and pizza/cupcake party on May 12 (Sat.) at 10:00am. Registration must be done in person at the Parks and Recreation office. Birth Certificate copies are required for new participants.
BASEBALL/SOFTBALL February 12
Practices begin for Baseball and Girls Softball.
SOCCER February 12
Practices begin for Soccer.
ONLINE PAVILION RENTALS Visit www.alabasterparks.org. 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.
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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.
SENIOR CENTER
The Alabaster Senior Center is located at 1097 7th Street S.W., Alabaster. If you would like more information concerning senior programs, please contact Alabaster Senior Center at 663-1307 or awalters@ cityofalabaster.com.
FABULOUS FIBER BEADS (2 day jewelry class must attend both classes) Friday, February 2, 12:00-1:30pm and Monday, February 5, 10-11:00am
Using various wire, fiber and beads, we will be making as many fiber beads as possible during the first class. During the second class, you will use a variety of spacers, beads and findings to make a jewelry piece(s) to wear. No tools will be used. We WILL be bending wire and tying small knots with our hands. Hand strength and glasses (if needed) will be necessary for this class. If you have jewelry tools, please bring them to this class. $12 to reserve your spot. All supplies are included. Space is limited.
HEALTHY NEW U
Mondays, February 5,12,19, 26, 2:00-3:00pm
(4 week class–please plan to attend all 4 classes) This is a 4 week commitment on Mondays after Tai Chi. We will be learning how to reset our sleeping patterns and how and why we eat what we do and how to change our mindset on food. This is a
commitment, you need to want to reset your body to be healthier. $25.00 to reserve your spot. Space is limited.
BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS WITH SOUTHERN CARE HOSPICE. Tuesday, February 6, 10 am
JAMES AND JAMES Friday, February 16 at 12pm
James and James will be here to entertain us. Sign up today to reserve your spot!
BOOK CLUB Monday, February 26,9:30 am
We will be meeting on the 4th Monday to discuss the book and introduce a new book. Sign up at the senior center.
Check out our great fitness & exercise classes! START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT AND JOIN US FOR ONE OF THE MANY GROUP FITNESS CLASSES WE OFFER TAI CHI JOINT AND BALANCE Mondays, 1-2 p.m.
This exercise class will focus on improving one’s balance, flexibility, muscular strength, mobility, help to decrease pain and prevent falls. Space is limited. $2/ class
GENTLE YOGA Tuesdays, 1:15-2:30 p.m. and Thursdays, 2:15-3:30 pm
Combines traditional/modified yoga postures and breathing techniques. Come improve your overall health through understanding your body better and leave feeling refreshed and reenergized. Gentle movement is modified
CALENDAR to allow the class to be completed by a standing or seated participant; all levels of fitness are welcome. Space is limited. $2/class.
complicated steps and at a faster pace. Students may move up to this class when they feel they are ready. Space is limited. $2/class.
ARTHRITIS EXERCISE PROGRAM
BEGINNER CLASS LINE DANCING
Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Thursdays,10:10-11 a.m.
Helps alleviate pain and stiffness, maintain range of motion, improve balance and coordination, increase endurance and overall health. This is a seated class with health tips given on steps you can take to healthier living. Space is limited. $2/class.
For students, new to line dancing. Several easy beginner dances will be taught in each class. Instruction will proceed at an easy pace and repetition will be emphasized. Appropriate supportive shoes should be worn such as tennis shoes, boots, and flats. High heels and backless shoes are not appropriate. Safety is a priority. Space is limited. $2/class.
INTERMEDIATE CLASS LINE DANCING
AGELESS ADVENTURES IN MOVEMENT
Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.
For dancers with some prior line dance experience. High beginner and intermediate dances will be taught with more
Thursdays, 12:30-2:00 p.m.
ing and 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 well-being 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 $2/class.
MOVIN’N GROOVIN Fridays, 9:30-10:20 a.m.
Focuses on stretching, cardio, light weights and having fun! All taught to music! Learn safe ways to improve muscles to make every day activities easier. Emphasis is on improving and maintaining overall health from head to toe. You won’t want to miss this class. All levels are welcome. Space is limited. $2/class.
Uses movement as a language to express an idea. As we explore some issues of ag-
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UNDEr CONtrACt!
UNDEr CONtrACt! 4BR/3.5BA $280s
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COUNCIL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES (ABRIDGED) Unabridged version of minutes and resolutions/ordinances can be found on the city webpage at www.cityofalabaster.com
DECEMBER 28, 2017, 7:05 P.M.
President Pro-Tem Martin presiding. Absent: Stacy Rakestraw (3), Scott Brakefield (6)
Agenda Items *PUBLIC HEARING ON THESE ITEMS
1. Resolution 122817 Authorize Uniform Agreement with Cintas for Public Works Employees Council Member Pate introduced in the form of a motion, Resolution 122817, authorizing a Uniform Agreement with Cintas to provide uniforms for Public Works Employees. Agreement not to exceed budgeted amount of $8,500.00 per year. Council Member Farrell seconded. Council President Pro-Tem Martin called for a roll call vote. Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Resolution 122817-A Authorize a Lease Purchase Agreement with Central State Bank to Fund (Tabled) the Purchase of One Fire Department Pumper Truck After discussion in Pre-Meeting, Council Member Farrell made a motion to Table Resolution 122817-A, authorizing a lease purchase agreement with Central State Bank to fund the purchase of one Fire Department Pumper Truck. Council Member Bedsole seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously 3. Resolution 122817-B Authorize an Engineering Design Agreement with InSite Engineering for the Access Drive and Turn Lanes off Hwy. 119 to the Silvercreek Subdivision Council Member Ellis introduced in the form of a motion, Resolution 122817-B, authorizing Engineering Design Agreement with InSite Engineering for the Access Drive and Turn Lanes off Hwy. 119 to the Silvercreek Subdivision. InSite Engineering Agreement shall not exceed $45,000.00 for a 75day Construction Schedule. Council Member Pate seconded. Council President Pro-Tem Martin called for a roll call vote. Motion Passed Unanimously
4. Ordinance 180212-056 Rezone District 31 Property (Public Hearing Set) Council Member Bedsole introduced Ordinance 180212-056, rezoning District 31 Property from R-8 (Manufactured and Mobile Home Residential District) and B-3 (Community Business District) to MXD (Mixed Use District) for a retail and service district off I-65 and Highway 31, and made a motion to set a public hearing for February 12, 2018. Council Member Farrell seconded. Council President Pro-Tem Martin called for a voice vote. Public Hearing was set for February 12, 2018. Motion Passed Unanimously
SAID MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:26 PM.
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UNTIL FEBRUARY 15, 2018
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CITY COUNCIL SOPHIE MARTIN, WARD 1 506-8961 martin@cityofalabaster.com
CITY OF ALABASTER 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 www.cityofalabaster.com 664-6800 MARTY HANDLON, MAYOR 664-6831 handlon@cityofalabaster.com
RICK ELLIS, WARD 2 ellis@cityofalabaster.com STACY RAKESTRAW, WARD 3 529-3326 rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com GREG FARRELL, WARD 4 farrell@cityofalabaster.com
RUSSELL BEDSOLE, WARD 5 205-229-6021 bedsole@cityofalabaster.com
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 48 ALABASTER, AL
SCOTT BRAKEFIELD, PRESIDENT, WARD 6 685-0302 brakefield@cityofalabaster.com KERRI PATE, WARD 7 965-8300 pate@cityofalabaster.com
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