Alabaster Connection April 2016

The Official Publication of the City of Alabaster

Alabaster Connection April 2016

Alabaster’s

Teen Council 2016 page 6

Putting Autism Awareness into Action • page 9 Rhonda Elmore: Passionate Life • page 22

Alabaster’s Clean Sweep • page 8

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From the Mayor’s Desk...

Hello Spring-time, truly my favorite time of the year! Energy and optimism is ever present in the early blooms, bright sunshine, and longer days—giving us more opportunity for recreational FUN! We look forward to plenty of baseball this spring, as we hope for more of the Warrior’s success realized in 2015. Many of our alumni Warriors are also doing very well at the next level, and we are so proud for them, as they continue their hard work, dedication, and love for the game. We follow their stats and successes with pride, Warrior Pride.

On this day last year, we celebrated the official ground breaking of the Holiday Inn Express. The construction is moving along, although not at the pace we had hoped in order to be ready for Marty Handlon Mayor, City of Alabaster our busy season of travel ball tournaments and graduation festivities. This four story hotel, with meeting & conference space, will also benefit the city in accommodating the needs of the national businesses in our industrial parks and expanding medical community. As is the case for all economic development discussions over the past couple of years, factors outside of the city’s influence determine the speed in which decisions are made—such as private land owners, corporate goals, and development financing. We continue to hear Alabaster is the place businesses want to be due to our demographics, growth, great things happening with the school system, and of course location, location, and location. We have been diligent in communicating our improved business friendly environment, as well as our willingness to consider various incentives for new developments. We are also committed to improving our traffic congestion with the current road projects—also not moving at the pace all of us desire, but unfortunately the result when federal grant monies are involved. The Council’s adoption of the City’s Comprehensive Plan at a March meeting will be a helpful tool in our continued recruitment efforts. We will announce these new developments as soon as the ink hits the development agreements.

I want to thank all of the local businesses represented at the city’s local business leaders’ CoffeeNet held on March 16th, as well as the professionals included on the agenda: John Kessler with Community Response Systems, Gene Rowley with APH Radio, Jason Kelly with WBRC, and representatives from The ARC of Shelby County. It was a very informative meeting with networking, city updates, and awareness of services offered by those businesses presenting. As stated at each gathering, we are happy to host these events as often as our local businesses feel they are needed and provide value—not just to add another meeting to their busy schedules. Let us hear from you on how we can better support the success of our local small businesses.

The 2016 Teen Council has been appointed (pictured on the cover), and will take their oath of service before the City Council in April. This is the third year for the Alabaster Teen Council, and we are looking forward to seeing all this group of young leaders will bring to the table for their peers. Please make every effort to support them in their efforts, and encourage your teenagers to get involved with the events sponsored by the Teen Council. If you have any questions about this initiative or any events for them, please contact my office at 664-6831.

Once again, Alabaster Clean Sweep happens this month! This annual beautification effort, started and fostered by Councilwoman Stacey Rakestraw, is about building pride in our community. I hope you will join the efforts in your individual neighborhoods, as well as in the more visible areas of our city. It truly does take all of us to make a difference, and we thank you for caring about Alabaster’s image.

Blessings to all—

Official Publication of the City of Alabaster Alabaster Connection is published monthly and it 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 Councilman Rick Walters Councilwoman Stacy Rakestraw Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC Contributors Shana Camara Heather Leavell Lindsay Schluntz

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Non-Emergency City Numbers Police 24-Hours 663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818

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C O u n c i l C o mm e n t s

Scott Brakefield, Ward 6 City Council President

Greetings, I hope each of you are enjoying the Spring time weather and all the pollen that comes along with it. I know it is wreaking havoc on my allergies.

But I am looking forward to warmer weather. Our parks are as busy as can be right now with the start of baseball, softball and soccer.

Parks and Rec works hard to make sure our children and our citizens have top notch parks to enjoy. Hopefully you will get out and enjoy a ball game or spend some time enjoying the Spring at one of our Parks. Warmer weather means City Fest can’t be too far away. The Alabaster Arts Council does a tremendous job putting on this one day event for our residents. Please make sure to visit the new website alabastercityfest.com or their Facebook page for all the information you need to plan your June 4th weekend. Lastly, make sure you get out to vote in our runoff elections to be held on April 12th. We have a runoff in our County Commission race as well as our race for Circuit Judge.

Sophie Martin, Ward 1

Alabaster Clean Sweep is a citywide initiative to do some serious “spring cleaning” in Alabaster. Please refer to the Clean Sweep schedule in this issue of the Alabaster Newsletter, and the city website www.cityofalabaster. com, to take advantage of many opportunities to dispose of unwanted computers and equipment, litter pickup along streets and roadways, and yard manicuring. A lot of litter has been picked up in some of the areas of Ward 1 but there is still work that will be done in the coming weeks. Thank you to the many volunteers who will be participating in this month-long effort. The result is a win-win for our residents and our beautiful city!

Recently, the City Council appointed three new members to the Industrial Development Board. We appreciate all three members being willing to serve the community and our city in this every important capacity. I’d like to

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thank Charles Cornelius of Ward 1 who is one of the new members recently appointed.

If you need to reach me by phone, please call my cell phone number which is 506-8961. Please let me know if you have any ideas or suggestions for Ward 1 or our city.

It is an honor to continue to serve the residents of Ward 1 and Alabaster.

Blessings, Sophie

Bob Hicks, Ward 2

I guess I was sort of busy over the last few months because I think I missed winter. Much to Lynn’s joy, we had a very mild one this year, but that will have one ugly side effect. Because we did not have any extended frosts this winter, the mosquito population will increase dramatically. Rest assured that Mark Harris and his team at Public Works are already busily preparing to provide extra protection this year, but it behooves all of us to take extra precautions when enjoying the beauty of God’s creation this spring. Always carry bug repellent with you on outings and remember to zip up the tent tightly to prevent unwanted guests.

April is one of my favorite months despite the showers, which I would vote we have already had PLENTY of in the last two months. One reason is April Clean Sweep, sponsored by councilperson Stacy Rakestraw, will be coming together as a unified effort to beautify Alabaster. I am so thankful for Stacy’s leadership in this annual event.

Please read more about it in her article and in a feature article of this newsletter. April also marks the annual book sale at the library, this year on April 8th through 10th. The Library does very few fundraisers, so your participation is critical and very much needed. Please swing by over that weekend and expand your personal library while allowing Alabaster’s to grow as well.

Great literature is available at minimal prices. Drop by, and join in the fun! The other and most important reason is the Easter season. This day defines Christianity in that it is a celebration of the only time death was defeated, and it marks the completion of Christ’s sacrifice in order for us to achieve eternal life.

Although I am not worthy of The Gift, God offered up His Son so that all who choose to may receive it. What a joyful time to celebrate!

Lastly, we are in daylight saving time once again, which means there will be much more evening activities in the neighborhoods, so please remember to drive with extra care as longer hours approach. The lives of others depend on your awareness and consideration. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this matter. Grace and peace, Bob

Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3

Spring is here and so is the month of the Alabaster Clean Sweep! Thank you to 145 volunteers who will be picking up litter along our roadways, as well as cleaning trash and debris out of Buck Creek, along the trail from The Depot to Buck Creek Park ­April 9th and 16th. Lt. Jason Boyd has been a great help the past four years in organizing the public safety aspect for volunteers. It is a joy and privilege to work with you!

April 23rd, from 9 a.m. ­until noon, is the free and secure paper shredding and e­-cycling. It will again be located in front of Thompson Intermediate School on Hwy 119 S. Thank you Jeff Atkins from ACS for helping us reserve this area.

Congratulations to the TMS and THS majorettes for winning State Championships. Thank you to Erica Wilson, the TMS sponsor and counselor for helping to make this a great first year for the girls.

Report­-A­-Concern is a great tool to turn in issues to the city that concern you. This is how the city is able to serve the residents and businesses more efficiently and continually improve our customer service.

Rick Walters, Ward 4

As the weather warms up and you begin your spring cleaning regiment, we now have a new service to help you safely sell (or buy) those items that have been taking up space in your home. Alabaster has set up a Safe Trade Zone in the parking lot of the old City Annex. Located behind the Alabaster Police Department at 127 1st Street SW, the Safe Trade Zone is identified with signage and under constant camera surveillance. Monitored by the Alabaster Police Department 24/7, we now have a place you can conduct your business without having to give out your address or worry about meeting someplace that you are not familiar with. This is free service that only a handful of larger cities across the county offer and it sets our community apart from other cities in Alabama. As a rule of thumb it is always a good idea to take someone with you and not to meet alone.

Hopefully some of our local businesses will see the benefit of this service and join our network.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about what is going on in our city and Keep in Touch!

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5

This has to easily be one of my favorite times of the year. I just love spending as much time as my family and I do at the ballpark.

We are so blessed as a city to have such great parks for all our little leaguers.

I have shared in my comments in the past and I can’t help but share again the words of the late Mayor of Montgomery, Emory Folmer, as he somehow managed to be at every baseball opening ceremonies across Montgomery despite all being held on the same day. I will never forget seeing the Mayor standing on the pitcher’s mound with the PA microphone in his hand telling the crowd of player and parents, “In Montgomery we teach your kids to steal second base, not someone else’s bicycle.”

Anytime I look around at all the parent volunteers that are out on the fields coaching our youth, I hear the voice of Mayor Folmer uttering those words with such conviction.

And maybe because of his words and all the parent coaches I had in my life, I believe in the life lessons taught on the athletic field. So this month I dedicate my comments here to each and every parent who is a coach, team mom, or dugout mom/dad. Your service to your city will forever make an impact on so many of the youth of Alabaster. Have a great Spring!

Tommy Ryals, Ward 7

We’ve mentioned before that the City has approached the Postal Service about consolidating some of the several zip codes used in the Alabaster city limits into 35007. At one time there were 6 different zip codes used within the city limits. Several years ago, we were successful in getting homes who received their mail out of Montevallo changed to the 35007 zip code. We have been focusing on the 35114 Maylene zip code recently.

We were told by the Postal Service that the residents who have the 35114 zip code will receive a card in the mail which will allow them to vote as to their preference. It wasn’t really clear as to exactly what the card will say, but we understand the card will ask you if you would rather keep the “Maylene, 35114” address, change to “Alabaster, 35114”, or change to “Alabaster, 35007”. Just as it was with the Montevallo question, your vote will decide what the Post Office will do, not the city. I personally have a 35114 zip code and would like my address to say “Alabaster” since no one typically knows where “Maylene” is located. You will have the opportunity to decide, so please take a minute and vote your preference. cityofalabaster.com 5

ha p p e n i n g s

Alabaster’s

Teen Council 2016 Diverse for a Purpose The Alabaster Teen Council is now in its third year. In years past, the Teen Council helped set up the Disc Golf course at Veterans Park, Teen Movie Nights, Summer Fun days, and the Back to School Bash – just to name a few of their accomplishments.

This year’s council consists of 21 teenagers, making up a diverse group of athletes, artists, musicians, and all around good kids. One of those returning “good kids” is Danyea Swoopes.

Danyea is a young self-aware student who always has a bright smile and a willingness to be herself, in spite of what anyone else thinks.

“I wanted to be a part of the council again to make our community a better place and to reach out to the teenagers,” she quickly shared.

For Danyea, a bright and intelligent teenager herself, it is about making sure her fellow teens stay out of trouble and have something positive to keep them occupied. “They have so much free time to get in trouble. They don’t do right things, so I wanted to give them things to do in their free time so they don’t make bad decisions,” she explained. She would love to see an afterschool place, such as a rec center, for the older students to hang out.

Mary Kathryn Grill, a media savvy teen, came back for a second year because it was fun. “It was really fun last year, being able to have a positive impact among my peers. I know what it is like to be at home on a Saturday and [be]

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“The diversity in the activities come from the diversity in the council. You have different races and social economics and it trickles down to everyone.

There is a lot of compromise.

So by being respectful and by listening you have something that is better.”

-Tyger Quarles, Alabaster Teen Council

bored,” she shared. Mary Kathryn will also be the first one to tell you that it is not all fun and games. “It is a

really big commitment. It is hard; you need to be committed. You cannot wait until the last minute to set up an event,” Mary Kathryn remarked.

She also felt that it was vital for all the Teen Council members to take ownership of their community and the plans of the council. “You have to, with our ideas, voice your opinion; you have to speak up. You might be miserable if you had an idea and didn’t speak up. We want everyone to be involved and participating,” she wisely shared. For Mary Kathryn it takes many perspectives in order find the best solution. “If you aren’t having fun, then your friends won’t have fun either,” she pointed out.

This theme of speaking up and bringing your own thoughts to this diverse council was prevalent when speaking with seasoned Alabaster Teen Council members such as Tyger Quarles, a second year member.

“Don’t be afraid to speak out when the group is as diverse as our group is; you get a lot of ideas. Ideas that come from athletes, artists, and intellectuals, produce a good mix of things,” Tyger shared. “The diversity in the activities comes from the diversity in the council. You have different races and social economics and it trickles down to everyone. There is a lot of compromise. So by being respectful and by listening you have something that is better,” he added.

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Noah Brakefield Gracie Coker Mary Kathryn Grill Jacqueline Herrera Maggie Keller Tabitha Lawler Katharine Lillie Nathabi Mashego Chris Miranda Luke Nichols Sawyer Pate Sam Pearce Tyger Quarles Caleb Ragland Savannah Rakestraw Destiny Richardson Devon Shepard Danyea Swoops Noah Tanner Abby Grace Walker Kylie Williams

Follow along with the Teen Council via Facebook and Twitter and Instagram

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Happenings

Clean Up, Clean Out, and Haul Off this April

During the Month of April, it is time to Clean Up, Clean Out, and Haul Off throughout the city of Alabaster. Councilmember Stacy Rakestraw, the originator behind this project, is excited to see how the event has grown over the last few years. “We really have done a great job of bringing awareness to the community about this event and how they can take part in keeping our city clean all year long, but especially during our April Clean Sweep,” she shared. “This year there will be two pick up days, April 9th and 16th. Each day will see

“We will have Shred-It on site to securely destroy any paper documents. This might include tax forms, bank statements and the like.”

-Stacey Rakestraw, Councilmember groups of volunteers picking up litter along our roadways, community buildings, parks, and trails. In fact we have no more space on the 9th; we had such high involvement from the community,” she exclaimed.

On April 23rd there will be a special recycling day in front of Thompson Intermediate School on Hwy 119.

“We will have Shred-It on site to securely destroy any paper documents. This might include tax forms, bank statements and the like,” she shared. There will also be e-cycling on site. This will include: computer components, keyboards, mice, cables, wiring, power supplies, printers, copiers, telephones and cell phones, print cartridges, and tapes and CDs. They will also take most household electronics, excluding TVs. This does include: microwaves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, blenders, vacuums, radios, lamps, batteries, and any metal shelving and file cabinets.

For a fee you can have an old hard drive securely destroyed for $10 and they will take computer monitors for $7 each.

Any event of this size would not happen without the involvement of many. “The Beautification Board is very

8 cityofalabaster.com

involved. They will be on site during the two pick up weekends making sure the groups have what they need,” shared Rakestraw.

The Boy and Girl Scouts will also be helping out by picking up litter and doing service projects citywide. “ For a complete listing of items available for recycling visit www.cityofalabaster.com

Thompson Intermediate School April 23rd ▪ 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

destroyed/recycled

• Any metal (shelving, filing cabinets etc.)

• All electronics (household and medical) • NO TVs • Secure hard drive destruction ($10.00 each, if destroyed) • Monitors ($7.00 each)

A Certificate of Destruction/ Recycling will be issued

DISPOSAL/RECYCLING (free) Computer Components: • Computers/Laptops • Keyboards • Mice • Cables/Wiring Power supplies • Printers • Copiers • Fax Machines • Scanners • Telephones/Cell Phones • Print Cartridges • Media • Tapes • CDs • Battery Back-Ups Household electronics- NO TV’s: • Microwaves • Washers/Dryers • Dishwashers • Blenders • Coffee Pots • Vacuum Cleaners • Stereos/Speakers • VCRs • Radios • Irons • Hair Dryers/Curling Irons • Lamps • Fans • Cordless tools/Re-Chargeable Batteries

Putting Autism Awareness Into Action

April is recognized as Autism Awareness Month and serves as a way to intentionally increase the mindfulness and understanding of those with this disability, and of the families who love them.

What is Autism?

Autism is a mental condition that affects individuals from early childhood and can be recognized by a range of symptoms that can include difficulty with communication and social interactions, obsessive interests, and repetitive behaviors.

One of the most difficult pieces of the puzzle for many families with autistic loved ones is the inability to communicate in ways that are generally considered “typical.” For Alabaster resident and Thompson High basketball coach, Patrick Davis, and his wife Kimberly, a first grade teacher at Creek View Elementary, this facet of having a son on the Autism Spectrum is something that stretched them to understand more about this puzzling diagnosis.

“Be accepting of those who are different and be willing to adjust your approach in order to help those who are able to learn differently than you.”

- Patrick & Kimberly Davis An Awareness of Uncommon Communication In many ways, Cade seems like your typical 9-year-old, but he is wrapping up his first year at the Warrior Center – a wing of Alabaster City Schools serving students with significant special needs – this year.

Cade has Autism Spectrum Disorder which, although every case is different, directly affects his ability to communicate in the same ways as others his age do. Since he is unable to express his unique thoughts in many situations, Cade instead speaks in echolalia – the repetitive use of memorized phrases – as a means of stress and sensory relief. For example, rather than saying, “It’s time to brush my teeth,” he instead says “Open your mouth,” a phrase memorized from the children’s show Elmo’s World during scenes when teeth are being brushed.

Once Patrick and Kimberly became aware of Cade’s tendency to use phrases from Elmo’s World as his unique way of communicating with them, they discovered that he was able to under-

Cade Davis and his family are raising awareness for Autism in Alabaster.

stand far more than they had realized.

“When you have a child (like Cade) with autism, don’t think that just because they don’t communicate back very well, that they don’t understand what’s going on and being said around them,” Patrick said. “We don’t ever talk about him like he’s not there, because he hears and processes the information, but can only express himself back out in his own way.”

Acceptance is Awareness Tangibly Applied Patrick’s goal in increasing the awareness of autism and its impact on individuals and families in the Alabaster community is to move towards acceptance. He says, “Those two things go hand in hand.”

One of the ways to tangibly apply awareness is to realize that not every child having a meltdown in the grocery store or at a restaurant table is just behaving badly. At first glance, a child throwing a tantrum may appear, much like Cade, to be just a typical kid who needs to be disciplined. However, once you apply the awareness that it is possible that he or she may actually be a child with autism experiencing a sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds in a new place, you become less likely to judge and much more willing to help.

He goes on to explain, “Acceptance starts with what you don’t do – don’t stare, don’t judge, don’t give dirty looks. Simply be aware that obviously there may be something different happening there, but accept that different is okay.”

Awareness Revolutionizes Attitudes and Actions Having a child with special needs has completely changed both Patrick’s and Kimberly’s world views, helping them to become even more acutely aware of just how different we all are – whether via different methods of learning, ways of communicating, or various means of being motivated.

This awareness affects not only the way that they parent Cade and his younger brother Knox, but also how Coach Davis coaches the young men on the Thompson High School basketball court and how Kimberly teaches the children in her classroom – especially those with special needs.

Their message to those around them is: “Be accepting of those who are different and be willing to adjust your approach in order to help those who are able to learn differently than you.”

To learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder, visit www.AutismSpeaks.org.

Happenings

Solving the Puzzle of Autism Spectrum Disorder

The National Autistic Society established the puzzle piece logo to serve as the international symbol for autism in 1963. This symbol represents not only this puzzling condition that 1 in 68 American children face (and 1 out of every 42 boys) but also the difficulty that many who are diagnosed with autism experience: fitting in.

sure to have them always wear a bracelet or necklace with identifying information. If your child has tactile sensory issues, simply put a phone number on the child’s clothing (permanent marker, patch, or iron-on), or attach the information on a shoe-tag. Community members and rescue personnel should be aware to look for these identifying items.

Wear Blue on April 2 Although the simple act of wearing blue on a certain day of the year may not seem to make any real difference, as someone once said, “Ignorance is simply a lack of awareness.� So, by first learning (yourself !) about the impact of ASD on the individuals and families around you and how you can help, then you can guide others in becoming aware. In this way, you will be a piece of the puzzle for influencing change.

Most importantly, realize that every child with autism is still just a child. Their ASD is only one piece of who they are. Be intentional about seeing, and helping, the child discover the unique ways that they can fit into the bigger picture around them.

To learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder, visit www.AutismSpeaks.org.

Get Involved with Putting the Pieces Together Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may seem to be a million-piece puzzle, but one of the most important ways for you to be a part of making a difference in a community for those directly affected

by ASD, is to get involved in bringing awareness to yourself and to those around you: Strive to Be More Tolerant ASD often causes sounds, smells, sights and emotions to be experienced in extremes. Be aware that that child who has regular meltdowns at the ballpark, in the store, or in your Sunday School class, may be struggling with a sensory overload and is having difficulty processing the experiences of that moment. Being aware of the growing prevalence of ASD in children should help you be more tolerant and gracious towards the child (and their parents!).

Be On the Lookout for Risks A major concern for parents of children with ASD is the risk of their child wandering off and being unable to communicate with people in the community to find their way back. If your child, or a child in your care, has a tendency to bolt, be 10 cityofalabaster.com

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Happenings

Making the Most of Tax Deductions

April has arrived, which means… tax season. Even though you get a few extra days this year before taxes are due (April 18, 2016), there’s still no time to waste!

If you are preparing your own return this year, or simply looking for ways to save on your return next year, take full advantage of available tax breaks, like these: Capital Gains and The Sale of Your Home Tami Pickett, a local Realtor with Keller Williams, reminds tax filers, “When you sell your primary residence, you can make up to $250,000 in profit if you’re a single owner, twice that if you’re married,

and not owe any capital gains taxes.”

You may also be able to deduct home improvement projects – Check out IRS Publication 523 for more information.

Hobby vs. Business If you’re finding that you regularly make extra money while doing your hobbies (gardening, fixing cars, making crafts, taking photos, etc.), realize that you legally owe taxes on that income, as well.

To reduce your taxable hobby income, it may be to your tax advantage to report it as a business. Use a Schedule C or C-EZ to deduct the expenses directly related to these ventures.

Additional Charitable Gifts While many deduct monetary gifts to the many worthy causes in our community, be sure to track mileage and receipts for expenses incurred during your services, as well. Time spent volunteering can’t be deducted, however, uniforms, supplies, and 14 cents per mile traveled while serving, can be!

Find more information about charitable tax deductions, check out IRS Publication 526 – Charitable Contributions, and Publication 561 – Determining the Value of Donated Property.

The Cost of Job Hunting Already-employed individuals can deduct the costs 12 cityofalabaster.com

of looking for a new job - including resume preparation and printing expenses, phone use, fees for placement agencies, and more. However, since miscellaneous itemized expenses must exceed 2% of your adjusted gross income in order to create any tax savings, it may be beneficial to bunch your itemized personal deductions every other year in order to exceed your standard deduction.

Check out the IRS website for the current standard deductions: www.irs.gov/publications/p17/ch20.html Be intentional about not leaving money on the table when you file your tax returns this year. Tax deductions like these (and others!) that appropriately suit your unique situation can provide significant tax savings for you and your family.

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Happenings

Soldiers of the Cross Ministries

Pastor Danita U. Ryan has lived in Alabaster for, virtually, her whole life. Having been in ministry for over 29 years, she has developed a desire for seeing people, especially young people, discover their God-given identities. This passion serves as the foundation of Soldiers of the Cross Ministries.

Reaching Alabaster’s Youth As an extension of the ministry’s heart for teaching and helping children in the Alabaster community, Soldiers of the Cross Ministries has launched

“We try to do everything we can. We teach them, we feed them, and if we notice there are kids that need clothes or shoes, we take care of that too.”

-Pastor Danita U. Ryan, Soldiers of the Cross Ministries a program called, The New Beginning. It is an after-school service (from 3:00-6:00 p.m.) for ages 5 to 15, where children are provided with a snack and activities and access to certified tutors and community volunteers who provide free teaching and homework help.

“Many of the children that we work with are underprivileged, in that they have families and go to school, and all, but they seem to have simply fallen through the cracks,” she says.

Many of these children initially get connected with this program after attending the Wednesday night services at the church. A shuttle bus regularly picks up almost 50 kids from throughout the Alabaster community each week to attend.

“We try to do everything we can. We teach them, we feed them, and if we notice there are kids that need clothes or shoes, we take care of that too,” says Pastor Danita. “When we see kids who are troubled or don’t read well, we offer them our time

and help.”

She tells the story of a 16-year-old boy in the Alabaster school system that she and her husband regularly engage with. They not only support his educational development, but also help him learn key social skills and discover the importance of having healthy relationships with his friends and family.

“It’s important that kids learn how to take care of themselves, how to show respect, how to study and learn. These are things that many kids just haven’t been taught.”

Pastor Danita explains that the hearts of the people serving at Soldiers of the Cross Ministries are turned towards the youth of the Alabaster community, “The older genera-

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tions have something to pass on to our young people. We need to make that connection, so when we walk off the scene, they can carry it forward.”

Expanded Facility Accommodates Additional Programs Adding the New Beginning program to the other services and programs provided by Soldiers of the Cross Ministries has created a need for additional space. Pastor Danita says, “We have grown, so our facility has expanded. We have upgraded our sanctuary and made it larger. People are surprised that this building houses a sanctuary, but it does!”

A service celebrating the sanctuary expansion was held on March 6th.

Soldiers of the Cross Ministries

“A People with a God Given Identity” 719 4th Place SW | Alabaster, AL 35007 205-633-4101 | soldiersofthecrossministries@gmail.com

Worship Services

Sunday Morning Worship: 11:15 a.m.

Sunday Evening Services: 6:15 p.m. (every 1st & 3rd Sunday) Intercessory Prayer: 6:00 p.m. (Tuesdays) Mid-Week Bible Study: 6:15 p.m. (Wednesdays)

Register to Serve or to be Served “This ministry is community based. If we can help just one kid or one parent at a time, I’m happy with that. God is blessing our hands to be a blessing to others,” she says.

To register to serve as a tutor, or for information on how to register your child for The New Beginning after-school tutoring services or for any of the upcoming summer programs and camps, please call the church office or stop by on Mondays between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

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C a l e n da r

Community

Friends of the Library Meeting April 11, 6 p.m.

5th Water Board 7 p.m.

Adult Computer Classes Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822.

April 6, 10 am – Microsoft Word 2013 Part 2 April 13, 10 am – Microsoft Excel 2013 Part 1 April 20, 10 am – Microsoft Excel 2013 Part 2

April

6th Trial Docket 9 a.m.

11th Alabaster City School Board 5:30 p.m.

11th Council 7 p.m.

12th Housing and Abatement Board 5 p.m.

13th Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 p.m.

18th Board of Zoning Adjustments 6:30 p.m.

25th Council 7 p.m.

26th Planning and Zoning 7 p.m.

27th Court Plea Dockets 9 a.m. & 2 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: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday - 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 - 1-4:50 p.m.

If you would like more information concerning programs, please contact the Library at 664-6822.

Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library Be a Friend!

The Friends is a group of dedicated booklovers that wants everyone to know the benefits the library offers, and how members can increase its effectiveness. We have semi-annual book sales to raise funds for special books and activities for all ages. We also maintain several areas at the library where books can be purchased at bargain prices. These are books that have been donated, so here’s an option for those books you no longer want in your private library. For as little as $10 a year you can be a Friend and support the library. There are several levels of membership, and always opportunities for a few hours of volunteering. Be a Friend! Application forms are available at the Library or at www.cityofalabaster.com Spring Book SaLE April 8-10

16 cityofalabaster.com

ABC & Ds of Medicare April 11, 1 p.m.

Karen Haiflich, of the Medicare Information Source, will help you navigate through the process of Medicare. Learn about filing, benefits, and get answers to any other questions you might have.

Program takes place in the Meeting Room.

Library Book Group April 21, 7 p.m.

Join us to discuss Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones. Set in a middle-class neighborhood in Atlanta in the 1980s, the novel revolves around James Witherspoon’s two families—the public one and the secret one.

When the daughters from each family meet and form a friendship, only one of them knows they are sisters. It is a relationship destined to explode. Program takes place in the meeting room.

American Sign Language Basics for Adults Thursday afternoons at 4:30 p.m. starting April 21st. In this 6 week introductory class we will cover topics such as the manual alphabet, The Friends of the Albert L. Scott Library are announcing our

Spring

BOOK SALE e!

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Friday 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Members Only Preview Sale. Join at door for as little as $10. Be ahead of the crowd & enjoy first choice!

Saturday Sale 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

No limit – buy all you want. We’ll help you carry them to your car!

Sunday 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Fill-A-Bag. We’ll give you a bag to fill. For only $6 you get everything you can pack into it.

This Book Sale is one of only two each year as fundraisers to support the programs and services the Library provides our community.

Be a Volunteer Hero! Donate baked goods or help with the sale for a few hours. Contact Joan at 620-1224 or bjoanrickels@aol.com

Albert L. Scott Library 100 Ninth Street NW | Alabaster, AL 205-664-6822

numbers, simple greetings, and aspects of deaf culture. This course will include: demonstrative lectures, interactive elements, weekly review and handouts. Participants must be at least 14 years old. 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. Sign up begins in January – call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library. 664-6822.

Job Search Workshops Will resume after tax season

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.

Outreach Story Time at area day care centers Wednesdays 3:30 p.m.

Tunes & Tales for all in the Meeting Room

Family Fun Night: Skins & Skulls April 12, 6:00 p.m.

Experts from Alabama 4-H bring real animal skins and skulls from several different species of wildlife that are native to Alabama. We’ll learn about what they ate and other fun facts. Families with kids in elementary school and above can sign up. Meets in the Meeting Room. All kids must be with an adult.

American Girls Club: Ham It Up with the 4-H Club April 22, 4:00 p.m.

Ham it Up will cover what many girls want to know about: communicating with others, developing empathy, public speaking, and effective listening. Some fun props will be on hand along with a friend from the Alabama 4-H Club. Girls 7 years old and older can sign up and come with or without a doll to the Meeting Room.

Pete the Cat Book Club April 26, 4:00 p.m.

Besides our regular cool cat fun, we’ll have a visit from a friendly expert from the Audubon Society. Children will learn about local birds and bird watching. Kids 5 years old and older can sign up because birds of a feather flock together. Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult. Session is in the Meeting Room.

Fridays 10:30 a.m.

Toddler Tales for 2 and 3 year olds in the Meeting Room Miss Jennie’s Story Time Themes: • Spring is Here • Let’s Go on a Picnic • Fun at the Library • Rootin’ Tootin’ Cowboy Lego League April 5, 6:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.

Kids of all ages can come play bricks of all sizes. We have the bricks, you bring the imagination. The fun is in the Meeting Room.

Lauri Williams, DMD, PC Charles Bordenca, DMD

Phone 205.664.2130 Fax 205.664.0287 After Hours 205.941.0631 219 First Street North Alabaster, AL 35007

C a l e n da r

Parks and Rec

The Parks and Recreation Office is located inside the Depot at 100 Depot Street, Alabaster. 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 THRU EMAILS 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.

TRASH TO TREASURES EXTRAVAGANZA The Extravaganza will be held at Buck Creek Park on Saturday, May 14, from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. on April 11 and ends on April 22 at 5 p.m. You can register in person at the Depot between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays only. As soon as all 50 booths are reserved, registration will close out even if it’s prior to April 22. The registration fee is $10 which can be paid with cash, debit, Visa, Discover, or MasterCard. No checks accepted. The fee includes a 20x20 booth. You must provide your own table and chairs.

FALL FEST VENDOR REGISTRATION On-Line Registration: Begins at 8 am on April 4 and ends at 11 p.m. on April 22. Available at www.alabasterparks.org Walk-in Registration: April 4 thru April 22 – weekdays only from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Depot.

You will receive a 15x15 booth. You must provide your own table and chairs. Event Date: Fall Fest will be on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Buck Creek Trail.

SPRING BASEBALL AND GIRL’S SOFTBALL Baseball/Softball has 450 eager players in our Spring Sports program. Please visit one of the Warrior Park or Veterans Park, and take in a game or two. It will be a pleasant experience even if you don’t have children participating. And it won’t cost you a penny. Baseball/ Softball picture day is set for April 9.

SPRING SOCCER Spring Soccer has 365 energetic young participants who love an audience. Please show your support by attending a game at Municipal Park. There’s sure to be lots of action, and there’s no admission fee.

18 cityofalabaster.com

START SMART BASEBALL Start Smart Baseball has some excited 3 and 4 year olds learning the fundamentals of Baseball on Tuesday nights during the month of April at Depot Field.

FOOTBALL & CHEER Look for Football and Cheer details in the May issue of the newsletter. Registration will begin on May 2 for Football (full contact), Cheer, and Flag Football.

ADULT SOFTBALL COACHES There will be an Adult Softball Coaches Meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19, at the Alabaster Senior Center.

ACCC FAST PITCH SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT The Alabama Community College Conference Fast Pitch Softball Tournament will be held at Veterans Park on April 29, 30, and May 1. Alabaster will be hosting this event for the 11th year in a row. It’s a double elimination tournament with 12 junior college softball teams from across Alabama competing. We are expecting large crowds so don’t miss out on what’s sure to be an exciting event. Games begin April 29 at 10 a.m. Tickets are $10 per day or you may purchase a tournament pass for $15. Children ages 6 and under will be admitted free as well as any youth Baseball or Softball player wearing their team jersey.

On-Line 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. 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.

Note: Space is limited in exercise classes. Sign up for each class begins 30 minutes prior to the start of a class. First come, first serve basis.

Orange Beach Trip October 11-13, 2 night/3 day-You won’t want to miss this fun trip! Lunch at Lamberts, shopping at the outlets, tour the Aviation Museum, watch the Blue Angels, sunset dolphin cruise, gulf front rooms and lots of good food. Total cost of trip is $245/double occupancy for gulf front room and $210/double occupancy for inland room. Triple, double and single occupancy available. Stop by the center for more information. Space is limited. Sign up and make your deposit of $75/person beginning on April 1.

Art is 4 Every1 April 1 and 8 from 12 p.m. -2 p.m.

This is a two day acrylic painting class open for beginner painters or anyone who has not painted in a long time. This class will focus on teaching students that have little to no drawing or painting experience. You will have step by step instructions and will complete a painting at the end of the two days. Cost is $12/person and all supplies are included.

Space is limited.

Faux Clay Pot Craft April 18, 9:30 a.m. -11 a.m.

You will learn a Faux technique that can then be applied to wood furniture, floors, walls and counter tops. This is for every skill level. Cost is $8/person and includes all supplies.

Space is limited.

Upcoming Book Club Monday, April 25, 10 a.m.

We will meet every 4th Monday to discuss the book and introduce a new book. Sign up at the senior center.

Interested Gardeners Tuesday, April 26 We will travel and tour Mike Rushing’s gardens in Coal City.

This will be a lunch and learn experience. Cost is $12 and includes lunch and tour. Space is limited.

Wellness Checks and Education Tuesday, April 26 The Alabaster Fire Department will be here at 9am to check blood pressure and blood sugar. Following at 10am they will lead an informative fire safety trivia.

Check out our great fitness/exercise classes!

Note: Space is limited in exercise classes. Sign up for each class begins 30 minutes prior to the start of a class. First come, first serve basis.

Head to Toe Fitness Class Mondays, 1 - 2 p.m.

Build muscular strength, increase your cardiovascular endurance, and improve your balance, flexibility, and range of motion as you have fun and move to the music! Do all this

while seated or standing……it’s your choice! This class will incorporate the use of hand weights, resistance tubing, balls, etc. into an enjoyable exercise class that will help you manage activities of everyday living with ease. So join us as we strengthen our body, mind and spirit, and support each other in the pursuit to make everyday a healthier day! $2/class.

Gentle Yoga Tuesdays, 1:15 - 2:15 p.m.

An hour class that combines traditional yoga postures and breathing techniques. Gentle movement is modified to allow the class to be completed by a standing or seated participant. All levels of fitness are welcome. Cost is $2/person and space is limited.

Arthritis Exercise Program Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

This class helps improve pain and stiffness, maintain range of motion, balance, coordination, and also increases endurance and improves overall health. Space is limited. $2/class.

Line dancing Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.

Join us on Thursdays for the 9:15 a.m. intermediate class or the 10:10 a.m. beginner class. No experience necessary. Cost $2/class.

Ageless Adventures in Movement Thursdays, 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Uses movement as a language to express an idea. As we explore some issues of aging 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.

Tempo!

Fridays, 10 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.

You won’t want to miss all the other Activities at the Senior Center...

Timeless Treasures (singing): Mondays, 10:00 a.m.

Head to Toe Fitness: Mondays, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Gentle Yoga: Tuesdays, 1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Rook/Rummikub: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.

Zumba Gold (exercise): Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m.

Beginner/Inter Line Dancing: Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.

Beginner Line Dancing: Thursdays, 10:10 a.m.

Bridge: Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Tempo exercise: Fridays, 10 a.m.

Around Town

City Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged)

(Unabridged version of minutes and resolutions/ordinances can be found on city webpage at www.cityofalabaster.com)

February 8th, 7:00 p.m.

Absent: Russell Bedsole

Agenda Items *Public Hearing on these items 1. Resolution 020816 Vehicle Purchase Parks Recreation Council Member Ryals made a motion to approve Resolution 020816 authorizing Administration to proceed with purchasing vehicles for the parks and recreation department in the amount of $39,364.

Council Member Hicks seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Motion 020 Liquor License Joes Italian Council Member Martin made a motion to approve the 020 On-premise liquor license request from the new owners of Joes Italian restaurant. Council Member Walters seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

3. Introduce Ordinance 160222-019 Transportation Network Companies Licensing Council Member Hicks introduced a proposed Ordinance 160222-019 concerning the licensing of transportation network companies and asked that a public hearing be set on this matter during the February 22nd, 2016 regularly scheduled meeting.

Council Member Martin seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

4. Introduce Ordinance 160222-020 Truck Route Ordinance Council Member Walters introduced a proposed Ordinance 160222-020 concerning the establishment of designated truck routes within the City and asked that a public hearing be set on this matter during the 20 cityofalabaster.com

February 22, 2016, regularly scheduled meeting. Council Member Ryals seconded. Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 5. Resolution 020816-A MOU – Compact 2020 Initiative Council Member Rakestraw introduced Resolution 020816-A authorizing Administration to agree to terms of a memorandum of understanding concerning Compact 2020 and allocating $5,000 in annual funding. Council Member Hicks seconded. Council Member Walters asked the Mayor to confirm that no additional personnel were being requested as part of this agreement. The Mayor affirmed this was strictly a financial contribution. With no further council questions, Council President Brakefield called for a roll call vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously Said meeting adjourned at 7:14 p.m.

February 22nd, 7:00 p.m.

Absent: Rick Walters Mayor Comments Mayor Handlon presented a proclamation to Many Infinities concerning Auto Immune Diseases Awareness Month and to Ms. Bailey Vaughn for her work being published in a peer reviewed journal.

Agenda Items *Public Hearing on these items 1. Ordinance 160222-019* Transportation Network Companies Licensing Council Member Hicks reintroduced Ordinance 160222019. Council President Brakefield opened the public hearing allowing those present to speak for or against said Ordinance. With no one speaking, the public hearing was closed. Council Member Hicks made a motion to approve Ordinance 160222-019. Council Member Bedsole seconded.

With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously 2. Ordinance 160222-020* Truck Route Ordinance Council Member Bedsole reintroduced Ordinance 160222020. Council President Brakefield opened the public hearing allowing those present to speak for or against said Ordinance.

With no one speaking, the public hearing was closed. Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Ordinance 160222020. Council Member Ryals seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote.

Motion Passed Unanimously

3. Resolution 022216 TAP Grant 2nd Street Council Member Martin a motion to approve Resolution 022216 regarding a TAP Grant application for 2nd Street NE. Council Member Rakestraw seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote Motion Passed Unanimously 4. Resolution 022216-A IDB Name Change Council Member Ryals a motion to approve Resolution 022216-A regarding accepting the requested name change for the City of Alabaster Industrial Development Board.

Council Member Hicks seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote Motion Passed Unanimously 5. Resolution 022216-B RSA Contribution Tax Status Council Member Rakestraw a motion to approve Resolution 022216-B regarding changing the methodology of employee RSA contributions to a pre-tax Councilwe Member With our proven systemssetup. and procedures, can often save you 50% companies!

Martin seconded.

Withover noother further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote  One of the most misunderstood variables in any job is cost.

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5. Resolution 022216-D Re-organization of departments Council Member Bedsole made a motion to approve Resolution 022216-D regarding the consolidation of building safety/inspections to be a division within the Alabaster Fire Department. Council Member Ryals seconded. Council Member Ryals commented to remind those present the functions of engineering and planning/zoning would remain distinct. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote Motion Passed Unanimously

5. Resolution 022216-E Appointments to the Alabaster IDB Council Member Martin made a motion to approve Resolution 022216-E regarding appointments to the Alabaster Industrial Development Board. Council Member Hicks seconded. With no further discussion, Council President Brakefield called for a voice vote Motion Passed UnanimouslyWith our proven systems and procedures save you 50% over other companies!

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Around Town

A Life of Passion Rhonda Elmore Citizen Spotlight

Rhonda Elmore, Executive Director of the Alabaster YMCA, is in love with three things: her husband of six years - James, her five year old son - Jimmy, and the YMCA. All three of her objects of affection orbit around each other and intersect with each other in a beautiful collage of chaos, and yet, purpose and clarity for her.

Elmore and her husband met later in life. After dating for about two years they got married, and a year later welcomed their son Jimmy into the world. They moved to Alabaster with their family in 2012 when Elmore became the director of the Alabaster YMCA. “I wanted to live where I worked. It is really important to our family to really know the community,” she shared.

For Elmore, a typical day at the office is, well, not very typical. “No two days are the same. But that is what I love about the YMCA. It is not the same job every day. Some days it is out in the community. Some days it is a lot of meetings and paperwork. A lot of days it is just talking to members, especially with the after-schoolers. That is the unique thing about the Y. No two days are ever the same,” Elmore said.

Elmore’s love for the Y started back in her college days, in her home state of Mississippi. “The crazy thing is, I started working at the Y in 1994 as a summer counselor. At the time I had aspirations of working in politics and going to DC. That summer I drove 20-30 minutes to work at the Y summer camp. I worked that summer and the next summer. After that summer I knew I wanted to work in the nonprofit world, preferably with the Y. My junior year I switched majors and got a job at the Y near my campus,” she recalled.

After college, Elmore continued her work with the YMCA. “My best friend started working for the Orlando Y. She called me and offered me a part-time job. Without consulting my parents, I moved eight hours away. It was one of the best decisions I made in my life,” Elmore expressed fondly. Her journey to Alabama started with a desire to be nearer to family. “I worked for the Orlando YMCA for five years. But I wanted to be closer to family, so I moved to Tuscaloosa. I guess after three years a job opened up in Pelham, which afforded me an opportunity to advance my career with the Y. I worked there for seven years. I started at the Alabaster Y in October of 2012,” she happily recollected. She added, “I have only [ever] worked at the YMCA!” One of her passions at the Y is working with students, especially older students. “I have always worked with teens at the Y. I think that group gets so forgotten, especially if they are not the most athletic. I remember talking with Mayor Marty Handlon, and [we] both wanted to offer teens more opportunities and a safe space to be,” Elmore shared. “I think teens are so misunderstood. When our teens are in

22 cityofalabaster.com

Rhonda Elmore lives a life full of passion.

the Y to work out, go swimming, or just to hang out, they are the most respectful kids. I am glad the Y is there to give them a place to go,” she boasted.

This past year the YMCA has partnered with the Alabaster City Schools to offer 5th Quarter parties after every home game. And starting in the spring a new event just for middle schoolers, called Middle School Madness for 6-8th graders, will take place. “It is on Saturday nights and is open to the whole community for a small $5 fee to cover the cost of swimming, food, and activities,” Elmore said.

Her desire to support teens extends beyond just fun activities.

“We have high school students who didn’t know how to write checks or deposit a paycheck. Through the Y we have been able to fill the gaps,” Elmore explained.

The Y also offers a Learn to Swim program for every second grader, through a partnership with the Alabaster City Schools.

“Seeing those kids gain new skills and gain confidence in the water is amazing. We get about 40 students and half don’t know how to swim,” she said. The Y also employs teens, allows the Alabaster Teen Council to host events and meetings in the building, and Elmore acts as an advisor for the teens.

When Elmore is not at work she is enjoying activities with her family. “We spend our time either at the Y soccer fields or at home, and we love to travel. Disney is our number one trip! We have been six times and Jimmy has been three. We go about once a year. But mostly, our spare time is spent together as family,” she said. When they are at home, her family just really likes to relax. That might mean spending hours building with Legos or watching Netflix.

“We are just as content being at home or doing something,” she explained.

As Elmore got up to leave, she shared one more nugget of insight into her passion. “I love the Y. It’s just,” she paused to emphasize her thought, “I can’t imagine not working for a Y and doing Y work.

There are days that I would love to be a stay-at-home mom, but our family is growing up in the Y. We love coming to the Y. It is a part of who I am. My life would not be the same without it,” she ardently shared.

For more information on the Alabaster YMCA, including their many programs for students, visit www.ymcabham.org/alabaster or call 205.663.7240

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Around Town

Delicious Bakery : The Name Says It All Delicious Bakery 844 Hwy 31 S., Ste.C Business Spotlight

Opening the front door of Delicious Bakery draws a draught of sugary scented air out into the sun to swirl around me… I think this is must be what heaven smells like.

The aroma of pastries, cupcakes and frosting was

Just a small sample of the tasty treats at Delicious Bakery.

only the beginning. The display cases of freshly baked goods, including cookies, bars, cheesecakes, puddings and other treats were beautiful, but it wasn’t until I took my first taste of an orange blueberry mini bundt cake that I truly understood where the name of this delightful shop came from.

A Sweet Story Delicious Bakery opened in the Snow Down plaza on South Hwy 31 in May 2010. The shop is owned

by Ernest Ruiz, but it is managed by his brother, Fabian Pardo. Fabian got his start baking sweet treats in Mexico over 18 years ago. He brings this authentic flavor to his dessert cases at Delicious Bakery, with specialties like chocolate flan, three milk (Tres Leches) cake and a variety of flavors of Mexican sweet breads.

Decorated cakes of all flavors (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, lemon, blueberry, orange blueberry, Italian cream, pina colada, and caramel), pastries (cream cheese pastries, apple, Bavarian cream, pineapple, etc.), cookies, donuts, and more are made fresh daily.

“We don’t have a room of refrigerators in the back to hold leftovers. We make just enough for our cus24 cityofalabaster.com

Delicious Bakery Monday - 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Tuesday - Saturday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Closed Sunday 205-685-1526 www.DeliciousBakeryAlabaster.com tomers every day so that it is fresh and new,” says Araceli, one of the bakers, glowing with pride in the work that she does.

More than Desserts The cozy retail space is the perfect size to accommodate for the kitchen – which received a perfect 100 score from the Alabama Dept. of Health – the desserts’ display counters and a side area for seating. Additional seating is available under the awning outdoors, which is a favorite option for the lunch crowd.

Along with their scrumptious sweets, Delicious Bakery also offers lunch specials from their deli. While the warm toasted panini sandwiches featuring quality Boards Head meats and fresh vegetables are popular, it is the Mexican tamales, usually only available on Fridays or by pre-order, that are the repeat crowd favorite, usually quickly selling out!

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Making Special Days Sweeter This time of year is very busy for Delicious Bakery, as wedding season is quickly approaching.

“Our wedding cakes are the most popular for us. Our busy season is starting with cake orders for weddings in May and through the summer,” says Fabian.

A minimum of only one month’s notice is required to create their beautiful custom wedding cases, and they can safely deliver the creation directly to the reception venue. A photo portfolio of their unique designs is available on their website.

Taste It for Yourself Experience this charming little piece of heaven for yourself, and make your next birthday, shower, wedding or any regular ol’ day, delicious!

Justice with a Smile Rosie Robinson

Employee Spotlight

Rosie Robinson finds joy in serving Alabaster.

“They live down in Greenville, below Montgomery but we get to see him two to three times a month.”

Robinson loves what she does, but more importantly, she loves who she does it with. “I do enjoy working with my co-workers. We can joke around and play and still get our job done. We can assist each other whenever there is a need.

It is almost like an extended family. Maybe that has come from years of working together. We developed a good working relationship over time,” she proudly shared. She added, “And the bottom line is, we want the job done. We all work towards that same goal. We do what needs to be done to get it done.”

For more information on the Alabaster Courts visit www.

AlabasterCourt.org

Rosie Robinson will be celebrating 21 years of working for the community of Alabaster this June. Robinson has worked as a magistrate for the Alabaster Courts for 16 of those 21 years. “I started at the water board and worked there for five years before joining the court,” she shared.

But what does a magistrate do? “In Alabama a magistrate handles all the court files. We handle warrants, we take fines, we determine probable cause, and we hold domestic violence hearings,” Robinson answered.

In this field of law Robinson finds much joy and satisfaction. “I was always interested in law,” she shared. “But I knew I did not want to be a lawyer. After a few years of working for the water board, a position came open and I applied for it. Long story short, I was praying and believing God, and I took the job.”

The Arc of Shelby County Working the court system might tax most of us with just the hardships and evil of this world coming out, but for Alabaster Helps Robinson, through her job, she has been able to see new life “Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no come forth. “I had one lady, many years ago, who had a theft one alive who is Youer than YOU!” of property charge. It was maybe a year later I got a letter - Dr. Seuss from her. She said we really helped her, after talking with me One of the incredible organizations that strives to support she knew that she needed to straighten HALF her life up.PAGE There is aYMCA the unique “you-ness” of individuals in our community is The gentleman who calls me every so often. He had an alcohol Arc of Shelby County - a non-profit that works to support and charge and said how much the whole court helped him to enhance the quality of life specifically for families and individurecover,” Robinson exclaimed. “It makes you think your job als with developmental and intellectual disabilities. is worthwhile when people change,” she joyfully exclaimed.

Caring for Shelby County Residents with Developmental Robinson is set to celebrate her five year anniversary with Disabilities her husband James. “My husband is the pastor of Joshua As three out of every 100 people living in Shelby County, both Generation Church of God. We have been there around children and adults, are personally affected by developmental three years,” she said. Robinson is very active in the life of and intellectual disabilities, the fulfillment of The Arc’s mission her church, and when she is not working she is often at a is vital. This mission is to “… provide services and supports that church function or meeting with church members. empower individuals with developmental disabilities and delays When she and James are able to, they like to take drives. and their families throughout their lifespan to live happy, suc“We do like a ride in the country. We just like to discover cessful and productive lives within a community of their choice.” different places - parks and other little places,” she said with a laugh. The delight of her heart is her little grandbaby, Jase.

Non-Profit Organization Spotlight

Around Town

Advocate to Advance Awareness The word “advocate” comes from the Latin word advocatus, which means “call (to one’s aid).” In 1974, area parents founded an organization wanting to serve as advocates for their school-aged children with special education needs. This pursuit of advocacy continues at The Arc in one-on-one settings, as well as locally, statewide, and at the national level.

Karen Stokes, Executive Director of The Arc of Shelby County, explained, “It’s important to legislatively represent the policies and opportunities that concern individuals with developmental disabilities, whether locally, on the state level, or in Washington.”

In addition to the advocacy component of The Arc, the organization also provides many direct services for families and individuals locally. The services are divided into three components: Early Intervention, Community Living, and Employment Services.

Early Intervention (ages 0-3) Children may be referred to The Arc of Shelby County by their pediatrician or by the Child Find program through the State of Alabama. Each child completes a developmental evaluation, and if a 25% or more delay exists, then the organization can begin providing support for the child in-home or at their daycare. These services may include occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, or special instruction.

The opportunity to partner with families to move them forward is exceedingly rewarding for Karen. She said, “This morning, there was a letter in my mailbox from a family talking about how the services that they had received had made a lifelong difference in their family. I love knowing that we’re actually making a difference in the lives of families – not just taking up space and doing activities – but actually making a difference.”

Additionally, when a child ages out of the Early Intervention program, service coordinators help Alabaster students make the transition to The Warrior Center, a wing of the Alabaster City School system designed for students with special needs, and other preschool service resources.

Community Living (All Ages) A unique program of The Arc provides resource development, information and referral, community education, personal care, and other supports to families and individuals. Activities include assistance in completing applications for benefits, school advocacy, and crisis assistance.

Employment Services (Ages 18+) When the child graduates from school, or reaches age 21, he or she can begin receiving vocational rehabilitation and training to assist in finding a job in the community or pursuing further education. Program participants in the vocational rehabilitation program live and work in Shelby County communities and make minimum wage, or above, in positions that match their interests and abil-

26 cityofalabaster.com

With the assistance of The Arc of Shelby County, Laura Smith, an Alabaster resident is employed at the North Shelby Library.

ity levels.

A unique partnership with Shelby Baptist Health Systems and Shelby County School Systems serves to develop work-skills in up to a dozen Shelby County students by incorporating internships into their last year of school. This program, called Project SEARCH, allows students opportunities to gain skills that lead to employment by the time the program ends each May. “It’s one of the most rewarding jobs in the world for me, because a lot of families have never thought about life after school,

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and actually getting to work wasn’t even on their radar. It’s really cool to watch them receive their first paycheck and decide how they’re going to spend it,” said Heather Bell-Lawing, Director of Employment at The Arc of Shelby County. “For us to be able to provide that opportunity to them, it’s really encouraging and remarkable.”

YOU Can Be a Difference Maker Almost all services, regardless of age or category, are provided at no cost to the participants, so the support and hands-on involvement of individuals and businesses in the community are essential.

You can volunteer with The Arc of Shelby County at: • Special events and fundraisers • REACT – a community-based educational program for young adults to develop social skills • Tales for Tots – a monthly story time for ages 18months to 5 years old, with music and arts and crafts.

For more information, contact Terry Young, Director of Development: tyoung@thearcofshelby.org.

“The heaviest concentration of our community’s highest salaries are in (the Medical Mile) area. While only 20% of our businesses are in this area, 73% of our jobs are located here. ”

Small Business Meeting Held in Alabaster

Featured Guest Speakers In addition to an update from the Mayor, local businesses and organizations were invited to talk about the services and programs they provide that impact the Alabaster community.

• Fire Chief Jim Golden discussed the incorporation of the City’s building inspections division under the fire department’s purview: “It’s a win for the community, our businesses, the City and the fire department,” said Chief Golden.

• John Kessler, founder of Community Response Systems presented the value of having incorporated the CRS Notify software into the Alabaster School System in order to provide real time, centralized communication in the event of an emergency event. To learn more about this innovative safety solution, visit www.communityresponsesystems. com.

• APH Radio’s Gene Rowley shared the vision behind this 501(c)3 non-profit radio station that uniquely blends together the best of commercial and public radio. With broadcasts that cover local sports and events, all advertising dollars are turned into charitable contributions to support nonprofits, ministries and charities in the Alabaster, Pelham and Helena (APH) communities. Tune in today at 99.9 FM! • Jason Kelly with FOX 6 announced a new way to promote area businesses through a cooperative ad campaign with other organizations, both via commercials and online ads.

“Mobile consumption of the news and media is steadily increasing, with over 6 million viewing hours logged on WBRC.com each year,” Jason said.

• Jaime Lowery, Heather Jones, and Michele Conrad, Employment Specialists at the ARC of Shelby County shared the stories of several individuals supported through the ARC of Shelby County who are employed through partnerships with various Alabaster businesses. To help support this organization, be sure to join in on their annual golf tournament to be held in May .

Although the City of Alabaster does not currently have a cityspecific Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Meetings held throughout the year serve as a way for businesses in the community to connect.

“The purpose of this gathering is to provide a way for the City to communicate things to our local businesses that they may be interested in. We want businesses to be aware of what’s available,” said Mayor Marty Handlon.

Comprehensive Plan Update During the March 16th meeting, Mayor Handlon discussed key topics affecting the city, including updates to Alabaster’s Comprehensive Plan. In reviewing the previous plan – last updated in 2005 – the City was able to celebrate what had been accomplished since that time, and to then create a vision for where to go next, based on how the city has grown.

In addition to discussing long-awaited projects that are moving forward behind-the-scenes, such as the widening of 119 from Fulton Springs to Veterans Park, Mayor Handlon also shared information from the Comprehensive Plan related to the development of the Siluria Mill District and Alabaster’s “Medical Mile.”

“The heaviest concentration of our community’s highest salaries are in (the Medical Mile) area. While only 20% of our businesses are in this area, 73% of our jobs are located here. With the railroad tracks on one side and the mountain on the other, we want to protect this area so that we can continue establishing a district of businesses that are complimentary,” Handlon explained.

Towards this end, Handlon shared that future Medical Mile developments will include combination professional meeting space and fast casual restaurants, but she encourages city leaders and people invested in their community to communicate their input.

To review the Comprehensive Plan, and to share your feedback, visit www.AlabasterForward.com.

-Mayor Marty Handlon

Around Town

THS TV Awards

An award-winning program is being recognized once again after winning several state awards.

Thompson High School’s very own broadcast journalists competed at the University of Alabama, on February 20th at the Alabama Scholastic Press Association state convention.

The group of students, more commonly known as THS TV, produces daily newscasts that air throughout the school. The broadcast program, taught by teacher Brooke Dennis, teaches students how to write, film, and edit their own news stories

in a real life environment. As for the THS TV staff members, the experience is made even more realistic when actually creating a full, live newscast; and those skills are much needed when competing at a state competition.

While at the ASPA state convention, THS TV won a total of 34 awards, ranging from everything on to behind the camera. In addition to the onsite competitions, which tested how well students could deliver a news story while on the campus, staff members also had the option to send and bring in previously created work - such as stories covered as on camera anchors or reporters.

The broadcast program walked away from the competition with the title of All Alabama, making THS TV the number one school broadcast in the state. Aside from the group award, several students won individual awards. THS TV’s very own Sarah Jones won the award for Broadcast Journalist of the Year. The award is only given to a Senior who is chosen by a selection committee as the best journalist in a particular media type.

In the mail in and carry in categories, Brady Talbert won first, second, and third in broadcast editing. In human interest and feature story, Talbert won first and Sarah Jones won second. In the broadcast news story category, Makayla Williams 28 cityofalabaster.com

won first, followed by Talbert with second, and Williams again with third. In videography Talbert placed first. In videography carry in, Alexis Lundy placed first, Williams placed second, and Talbert placed third.

In reporting, Talbert placed second and Williams placed third. In the news anchor category, Williams placed first, and Talbert placed second. In spot news coverage, Camille Bunch and Talbert placed first followed by Williams in third. In feature news, Jones got an honorable mention, as well as Talbert, in the editing category. THS TV’s director Tyler Hussey placed second.

Next we’ll take a look at THS TV’s mail in and carry in for sports. In the sports story category, Noah Pevey placed second and Bryant Horn placed third. In broadcast sports anchor, Chase Mayo placed second. In sports reporting, Williams placed first and Sam Callahan placed third.

Let’s not forget about the onsite categories. In the newscast anchor competition, Sammy Chatham placed first followed by Jones in second. For sports anchoring, Constance McKnight placed first and Callahan placed second.

In broadcast stand-up, Talbert placed first.

If you would like to see this award winning broadcast in action, you can watch THS TV at thslive.com for your latest in local news and live sporting events.

Residential Beautification Award Winner

105 Oakbrooke Lane

Al and Jane Hardee are the proud proprietors of April’s Beautification Award. They well maintained lawn acts as a backdrop to the perfectly manicured shrubs lining the walkway and accenting the facade of the house. The mulch has been keep in good order and the Crepe Myrtles are ready to burst forth this spring. Congratulations to the Hardees on a job well done.

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Just a reminder: You can report any problems or concerns by calling 664-6800 or by using the online “report a concern form” at www.cityofalabaster.com.

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Around Town

Bailey Vaughn ECCS Student Honored Bailey Vaughn, ECCS senior, was honored by Mayor Marty Handlon for Bailey’s inclusion in Christian Research Journal, a world-renowned, scholarly, theological publication with an emphasis on apologetics across all disciplines. Bailey has been honored with the publication of her senior thesis, “The Embodiment of Heroism Manifest in Christ”, as a featured article in the May/June issue, a feat that has never been bestowed on a student before.

Creek View Elementary -TOur & Snack April 27, 9 a.m.

Parents of incoming kindergarten students for Creek View Elementary will not want to miss the upcoming “Tour and Snack” on April 27th at 9 a.m. The upcoming students will be reading a story and enjoying a snack from the friendly lunchroom ladies. The parents and students will then tour the school and be able to see what fun and exciting things that they will have in store for the 2016-2017 school year. For more information please contact Paige Pearson for more information - paige.pearson@alabastercityschools.org or call 205-453-2623

Heart South Cardiovascular Group Vein Center Ribbon Cutting

Carlos Stephens Signs with UAB

The ribbon cutting for the Heart South Cardiovascular Group Vein Center on February 19, 2016, included (in the front row) marketing coordinator Kim Hess, practice administrator Melissa Bailey, nurse practitioner Jennifer Daggett, Dr. Cliff Vance, Dr. John McBrayer, Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon, Dr. Hudson Segrest and Dr. David Fieno. Others attended including staff from the new medical practice and members of the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce.

Carlos Stephens, a running back at for the Thompson High School Warriors, recently signed a letter of intent to play for the resurrected UAB football team in the fall. Carlos was singled out at the signing ceremony by his head coach Freeman for his strong work ethic and his ability to play hard and tough. Carlos is expected to fight hard to win a starting position, a feat that Coach Freeman would expect from such a hard working young man.

30 cityofalabaster.com

City of Alabaster 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 www.cityofalabaster.com 664-6800

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid PERMIT 48 ALABASTER, AL

Marty Handlon, Mayor 664-6831 | handlon@cityofalabaster.com City Council

Sophie Martin, Ward 1 506-8961 | martin@cityofalabaster.com Bob Hicks, Ward 2 663-1801 | hicks@cityofalabaster.com Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3 529-3326 | rakestraw@cityofalabaster.com Rick Walters, Ward 4 281-7394 | walters@cityofalabaster.com

Russell Bedsole, Ward 5 205-229-6021 | bedsole@cityofalabaster.com Scott Brakefield, President, Ward 6 685-0302 | brakefield@cityofalabaster.com Tommy Ryals, Ward 7 664-1301 | ryals@cityofalabaster.com

Postal Patron

Votile Ap1r2th

Runoff Election

Security/Safety - I believe in supporting and advocating for first responders and those who are on the front lines of helping people.

Godly Leaders - I believe leaders and public servants must be

competent, solve problems, and do their best to live a life above reproach.

I will strive to keep your trust and live a life free of scandal.

Issues Concerning Children - I am a family and child advocate with experience collaborating with government agencies, nonprofits, and ministries to help families. I believe we must protect our children and support those who work with them including parents, guardians, foster parents, teachers, etc.

Peace, Unity and Desire for People to Get Along

- I believe that the diversity of people in Shelby County and their unique gifts can be an asset to solving problems. I don’t have all the answers to this concern but I do know, as a believer, that Jesus said we have peace in Him and that He has overcome the world.

I’m Asking for your Vote on April 12th In The Republican Primary Shelby County Commission – Seat 4

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ElectWardWilliams.com facebook.com/electwardwilliams Paid for by the Committee to Elect Ward Williams 225 Summerbrook Lane Alabaster AL 35007