Shelby Living February 2015

Shelby Living

What a Shelbyliving.com

Voice

Jessie Pitts prepares to take the next step in her music career

Rough riders Oak Mountain BMX draws racers of all ages

Operation Inspiration Calera military family receives a new home

February 2015

February 2015 shelbyliving.com

Model mentors

Big Brothers Big Sisters branches out in Shelby County

Bad to the

Bone

Big Bad Breakfast serves up a breakfast lover’s dream

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FROM THE EDITOR

H

ave you heard of Jessie Pitts?

The Spain Park High School graduate competed on The Voice in 2014. I was lucky enough to get to interview at the end of the year for a story in this issue of Shelby Living.

Our conversation was not long, but I was very impressed by Jessie.

She was well-spoken, ambitious and charming. Only 18 years old, she has already accomplished more than many people do in a lifetime.

She first auditioned for The Voice, a reality TV singing competition, two years ago, but was cut. When she auditioned again in January 2014, she made it through round after round, eventually landing in the Top 12.

While watching some of Jessie’s clips on YouTube and The Voice’s website,

I was amazed by her singing and her stage presence. During our interview, she shared her hopes for her future career, and it is clear she is talented and driven enough to make it big in the music industry. Check out the story on page 28 for more about Jessie’s time on The Voice.

In this month’s issue, we cover a wide range of topics and places: Big Bad Breakfast on U.S. 280, the Oak Mountain BMX track in Pelham and a Calera military family who were featured in a national commercial.

If you have a story idea for Shelby Living, I hope you will share it with me. Some of our best ideas come from readers. I can be reached at 205-669-3131 or Katie.mcdowell@shelbyliving.com.

Stay warm this winter!

Katie McDowell, Editor

Katie.McDowell@ShelbyLiving.com

Shelby Living EDITORIAL Graham Brooks Molly Davidson Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner CONTRIBUTORS Laura Brookhart Lindsay Dyess Amy Jones Lisa Phillips PRODUCTION Jamie Dawkins Layken Gibbs Robyn Holm Amanda Porter Jon Goering MARKETING Kristy Brown Ashley Duckett Daniel Holmes Nicole Loggins Rhett McCreight Denise McDonald Meagan Mims Kim McCulla Kari Yoder ADMINISTRATION Tim Prince Katie McDowell Mary Jo Eskridge Hailey Dolbare Laurel Cousins

ON THE COVER Shelby County native Jessie Pitts recently competed on NBC’s The Voice.

Cover design: Robyn Holm Photography: Paul Drinkwater/NBC

Shelby Living is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Shelby Living is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby Living, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Shelby Living is mailed to select households throughout Shelby County, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit Shelbyliving.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $20.41 for one year by visiting Shelbyliving.com, or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 26.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@ shelbyliving.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 37.

4 | ShelbyLiving.com

WHAT’S INSIDE

Health & Recreation 18

PICKLEBALL New sport makes its way to Mt Laurel

19

HAPPY HEARTS St. Vincent’s continues its commitment to cardiology service

20

ROUGH RIDERS Oak Mountain BMX draws racers of all ages

20 February February 2015 2015| 5| 5

WHAT’S INSIDE

28

16 in every issue 7

THE SIMPLE LIFE

8

SHORT STORIES

55

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

63

SHELBY SPOTTED

78

MARKETPLACE

81

OUT AND ABOUT

art & culture 15

ARTS COUNCIL CORNER SCAC serves up jazz, blues and soul

16

KNIT ONE, PURL TWO Sally Chew creates one-of-a-kind knit scarves, gloves, sweaters and more

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48

features

home & food

28

WHAT A VOICE Jessie Pitts prepares to take the next step in her music career

48

34

OPERATION INSPIRATION National commercial features Calera family

36

GOLDEN DREAMS Special Olympics champions call Shelby County home

42

MODEL MENTORS Big Brothers Big Sisters branches out in Shelby County

BAD TO THE BONE Big Bad Breakfast serves up a breakfast lover’s dream

THE SIMPLE LIFE

Digital Pack Rat

D

© 2015 Alabama Power Company

igital pack rat—who knew there was such a thing! If we peeked in your closet, would we find you hoarding away shoes, clothes, or paperback books? Maybe you’ve saved 15 years of Southern Living or Sports Illustrated in the basement and your spouse continues Lisa Phillips, owner of SimpleWorks, to ask why. You might argue there’s Simpleworksmtsp.com some good stuff tucked away in the lisa@simpleworksmtsp.com yellowed, crumpled pages.

205.981.7733 While we may understand the “physical” pack rat scenario, have you given much thought to what you’re storing on your computer and phone? With advances in technology, we have a whole new dimension of clutter to tackle.

Here are a few ideas to help with the digital overload.

• Apps. Count how many apps you have on your phone. Now count how many you use. Chances are over half can be deleted, which would streamline your screen, not to mention simplify locating the apps you use often.

• Inbox. When checking your inbox, do a quick scan of your messages and delete the ones that are not relevant. Then tackle the emails that can be quickly handled. This leaves you with a manageable workload that requires thought or research. Realize that as fast as you delete, more messages drop in, so you have to keep up with email on a daily basis.

• Email folders. Use the same principle that you use for paper files. Have a broad category with subfolders. This makes it easy to “hide” folders creating a cleaner screen. Be cautious—downsizing your broad categories only to add numerous subfolders is feeding the digital clutter problem. The more folders you have, the more you have to search for something. Periodically delete your “digital file drawer” just like you purge paper files.

• Delete/sent files. Emails in these two folders are often overlooked. Your “delete” folder is your digital trash can. Think of how you empty a trash can, your digital version needs to be emptied, too. Delete your delete! Same with the “sent” folder.

We’re surrounded by “white noise” that doesn’t make a sound.

We can’t actually touch digital clutter, yet it cramps our brains and crowds our screens. Just because you can’t touch it doesn’t mean it isn’t taking up space. Cyberspace is a digital landfill. And just like the landfills are filling up, so is your cyberspace. Protect your space. Clean up your space. Organize your space.

It’s that simple. l

What is it that makes us different here?

We can’t actually touch digital clutter, yet it cramps our brains and crowds our screens.

Maybe it’s just knowing when to help. Here in Alabama, some people are having trouble paying their bills. You can help us help them.

Just make a small donation to Project SHARE on your next Alabama Power bill. Or give online at AlabamaPower.com/ProjectSHARE. Together with the American Red Cross we can show everyone what makes us different here.

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12/2/14 12:33 PM

SHORT STORIES

Hand named Calera Chamber director The Calera Chamber of Commerce recently named Alabaster resident and small-business owner Jennifer Hand as its new executive director.

“I’m very excited,” Hand said of the new position. “I’ve had a very warm reception.

The business owners I’ve spoken to and met have been really receptive.”

Hand, who worked as a CPA in private industry for 22 years, recently left the industry to work full-time in her own business, Family Memories Travel.

Hand was chosen from a pool of 10 applicants, who interviewed for the position in October.

Going forward, Hand hopes to be accessible and visible in the community.

“My plan is to be accessible,” said Hand, who plans to have eight in-office hours a week where business leaders can ask questions, as well as eight hours a week out in the community.

In addition, Hand plans to increase the chamber by 100 percent in the next two years and engage the community through public media.

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Causey named PHS head football coach In a much-anticipated move, the Pelham Board of Education hired former Demopolis High School head football coach and Athletic Director Tom Causey to take the helm of the Pelham Panther’s football program during a Dec. 18 special-called meeting at Pelham City Hall.

Causey is the former head football coach and athletic director of Demopolis High School, where he complied a 67-29 record and a Class 5A state

Rowley wins gold at National Finals Soccer player Samantha Rowley from Alabaster won gold at the National Finals in Sarasota, Fla. The Gulf Coast Texans, a national Super Y League team, has won the U17 National Championship in a 3-0 victory over the Force Football Club from Michigan. For more information about Super Y League, visit Supery.uslsoccer.com.

championship victory in 2009.

“That’s what we were looking for in a coach, someone who had the ‘it factor,’ someone who could do it all,” Pelham City Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Coefield said.

“The vision for us is to be great,” Causey said. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of getting there.”

Causey said he and his wife are also looking forward to raising their two daughters in Pelham.

SHORT STORIES

Roadway renamed in Merritt’s honor Former Jefferson State Community College President Dr. Judy M. Merritt touched many lives before her passing on Oct. 19, 2014, and a stretch of roadway near Jeff State’s Hoover Campus will be renamed in her honor.

Valleydale Road from the intersection of Caldwell Mill Road north along Shelby County 17 to the intersection of Meadow Drive and Thornberry Drive will now be known as Dr. Judy M. Merritt Memorial Highway.

The resolution was announced by the Shelby

County Commission and was unanimously approved on Dec. 9.

During Merritt’s Merritt 35-year tenure at Jefferson State Junior College, later named Jefferson State Community College, she presided over unprecedented growth of the college and expanded the college’s reach to a campus in Shelby County according to the Commission’s resolution.

Eagles win county basketball tourney The Oak Mountain Lady Eagles basketball team won the Shelby County Tournament Championship after defeating the Thompson Lady Warriors 40-34.

The championship game saw the Lady Warriors lead the majority of the game until a stellar fourth quarter performance that gave the Lady Eagles a six point victory and tournament champions.

Oak Mountain Head Coach Allen McGowan called a time out and discussed how his “It was a big win for us,” said McGowan. “It was the best team we played and probably the best team we’ve won against this year and it helps us going into the holidays.”

Oak Mountain improved their record to 8-4 on the

year and defeated Briarwood, Calera and Thompson to take the Shelby County Tournament Championship.

February 2015 | 9

SHORT STORIES

BCS honors grandparents, veterans Briarwood Christian Elementary School welcomed grandparents to a special program offering recognition to veterans and grandparents.

The event began with a breakfast for over 400 grandparents.

Following the breakfast, grandparents enjoyed a patriotic program in the sanctuary. The fifth and sixth grade choirs sang an “Armed Forces Medley,” and the sixth grade band performed the “Star Spangled Banner.”

The kindergarten and second grade classes also participated in the program.

Several videos were shown highlighting the 50-year history of the school.

After the program, grandparents visited the classrooms, where they found special notes and projects that the students had prepared for their special guests.

Briarwood Christian School hosted over 3,000 grandparents for the program.

XTERRA returning to OMSP USA Triathlon announced the 10th edition of the XTERRA Southeast Championship will be held at Oak Mountain State Park on May 16, 2015.

The spring event will also serve as the 2015 USA Triathlon Off-Road National Championship race and a qualifier for both the 2015 XTERRA World Championship and the 2016 ITU Cross Triathlon World Championship races.

“Outdoor sports enthusiasts from around the world have discovered that Shelby County’s Oak Mountain State Park provides unparalleled resources,” Shelby County Manager Alex Dudchock wrote in a Dec. 16 news release. “Last year we had competitors from eight countries and more than 30 states.

Our collaborations with the state of Alabama, city of Pelham, Birmingham

Urban Mountain Pedalers and other organizations have made extensive improvements possible to the already top-rated course, creating a destination for the serious competitor or for those discovering the thrills of outdoor sports.”

Elite athletes will compete over a 1.5 kilometer swim, 30 kilometer mountain bike ride and a 10 kilometer trail run for $15,000 in prize money.

XTERRA will also offer a shorter distance sprint race consisting a 750 meter swim, a 15 kilometer mountain bike ride and a 5 kilometer trail run.

Relay team events along with five, 10 and 15 kilometer races will also be available.

All XTERRA races are open to the public and registration will open soon at Xterrapelham.com.

Cross Country contest coming to Veterans Park Shelby County’s population could grow by 10,000 in one day as Hoover’s Veterans Park hosts the 2016 National Junior Olympics Cross Country Championship on Dec. 10, 2016.

USATF Alabama recently won the bid to hold the event once again at Veterans Park in Hoover, located on Valleydale Road in Shelby County.

“Bringing this exciting national 10 | ShelbyLiving.com

competition back to Alabama reflects the National USATF confidence in the sponsors and their hospitality and the quality of the cross country course at Veterans Park,” USATF Alabama President Molly McGregor wrote in a press release.

The event, which draws athletes from across the country, has grown significantly in size since it was held at the same park

in 2010, the release said.

USATF Alabama is again partnering with the city of Hoover, Shelby County and the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, all of which sponsored the event in 2010.

The bid was awarded to USATF Alabama recently in Anaheim, Calif., by a vote of the USATF Youth Committee membership.

SHORT STORIES

Ezell named OMSP superintendent There’s a new face at Oak Mountain State Park. After 12 years with Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Kelly Ezell has joined OMSP as the Alabama state park system’s superintendent for the central district.

Ezell began her career at Joe Wheeler State Park where she worked at the marina before serving as the lodge general manager. She was recently promoted to

superintendent for the central district.

As superintendent for the central district, Ezell oversees the day-to-day operations at Oak Mountain, Cheaha, Wind Creek, Roland Cooper and Paul M. Grist state parks, but she said she spends the majority of her time at OMSP. “It’s a beautiful park,” Ezell said. “I’m just amazed every day at how beautiful it is, how expansive it is.”

Pelham takes Shelby County Tournament Championship Playing on their home floor, Pelham took on a familiar opponent on Saturday, Dec. 20, in the championship game of the Shelby County Tournament.

The Panthers defeated the Thompson Warriors 60-55 to win the Shelby County Tournament Championship.

It was the second time Pelham has beaten Thompson this season.

“It was a great tournament for us going into the break,” Pelham head coach Joel Floyd

said after the game. “Playing teams that we all know each other because we play each other in the regular season makes it a lot more difficult.

That was the third time we’ve played Oak Mountain and the second time we’ve played Thompson so it’s hard to win those kind of games and I’m proud of the guys for their effort today.”

Pelham defeated Chelsea, Oak Mountain and Thompson to win the tournament.

February 2015 | 11

SHORT STORIES

Local Girl Scouts earn Bronze Award Girl Scout Troop 33590 members Ella Harris, a student at Chelsea Middle School, and Olivia Trout, Brooke Jones and Isabella Roshaven, students at Forest Oaks Elementary School, recently earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award for their project “Letterboxing.”

They designed and planted a letterbox with a hornet theme in the Chelsea Public Library. The girls donated an informational children’s book about hornets that sits next to the letterbox.

The clues to the “Girl Scout Hornet” letterbox can be found at Letterboxing. org.

The girls also planned and led a letterboxing workshop at their Girl Scout Service Unit campout. The girls helped the Brownies earn the letterboxing Brownie badge and hid two additional boxes at Kanawahala Program Center for

12 | ShelbyLiving.com

other troops to find.

The Girl Scout Bronze Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Junior (fourth and fifth grades) can earn. This award recognizes that a Girl Scout Junior has gained the leadership and planning skills required to follow through with a project that makes a positive difference in her community.

South City Theatre wins at theatre festival South City Theatre, partnering with the Wetumpka Depot Players, took home top honors again at this year’s annual Alabama community theatre festival: ACTFest ‘15. Sue Ellen Gerrells and Kristy Meanor both won “Excellence in Acting” awards for their performances as Thelma and Jessie, respectively. This production was chosen as one of two Best in Shows to represent Alabama at this year’s Southeastern Theatre Conference in Chattanooga, Tenn., in March 2015. Benefit performances will be staged in Wetumpka and at South City in March to help defray the cost of traveling to the regional competition.

SHORT STORIES

Local gymnasts take first at state meet Gymnasts from Legacy Gymnastics put Pelham on the map, taking five first place titles and numerous other awards at the Alabama State Compulsory Gymnastics Tournament, Dec. 5-7.

Twenty gymnasts from Legacy Gymnastics, levels 3, 4 and 5, traveled to Mobile to compete against gymnasts from

Marion scores career-low round at Ballantrae Hugh Marion scored his career low round today here at Ballantrae on Dec. 27. Marion is a member at Ballantrae and shot a 69 while playing with Dennis Smith, Steve Caiola and John Olson.

Marion

across the state at the tournament hosted

by Planet Gymnastics at the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center.

Shannon Shaffer and Casey Martin both took first place all around in level 3.

Anna Ruiz and Elle Roberts both placed first in Level 4 all around and Tatum Holley took level 5 first place all around.

The Legacy Gymnastics level 3 team placed fourth out of 13 teams, and the level 4 team placed second out of 14 teams.

Legacy Gymnastics is located at 188 Chandalar Place Drive. The gym trains both boys’ and girls’ competitive teams.

More information can be found at Legacygymnastics.com.

Reese named Hoover City Schools superintendent The Hoover City Board of Education appointed Dr. Jim Reese as the interim superintendent for Hoover City Schools at a called board meeting Dec. 19 at 1:30 p.m.

Reese retired three years ago after serving as superintendent in Enterprise for nine years.

“If I had a choice of a school system– anywhere, not just Alabama, but anywhere–it would be this one,” Reese said during the meeting. “It will be a pleasure for me to work for you and

with you, and I am just excited about accepting this opportunity and being a part of the Hoover City School System.”

Reese’s appointment as Hoover’s interim superintendent was effective Jan. 1, 2015, and he can serve up to 180 days.

In the meantime, the board will continue efforts to find a permanent replacement for Andy Craig, who resigned to accept a position with the Alabama State Department of Education.

February 2015 | 13

SHORT STORIES

Dudchock reflects on college football career Davis Dudchck, a Shelby County native and Vanderbilt University graduate student-athlete, recently completed his last semester of eligibility with the Commodores.

Dudchock began his football career at Oak Mountain Middle School where he started as a quarterback.

“I played three sports through middle school and until my sophomore year and then my junior and senior years at Oak Mountain, I really focused on baseball and football,” said Dudchock.

Through focusing on these sports and academics, Dudchock was able to accomplish one of his lifelong goals.

“I had always had a dream of playing collegiate sports and it had been my goal growing up to earn an athletic scholarship to play division one sports,” Dudchock said. “I didn’t know in what sport that would be, but the best opportunity was definitely with football.”

14 | ShelbyLiving.com

During his senior year at Oak Mountain High School, Dudchock was offered an athletic scholarship to Stanford University.

Dudchock received his bachelor’s degree in science, technology and society, while also receiving a two-year letterman and All-PAC 12 Academic Honors. Dudchock is

now pursuing his graduate degree in higher education administration at Vanderbilt University, and during his last semester of eligibility, he played half back and tight end for the Commodores.

Dudchock attributes his success to his roots of hard work, strong faith and a supportive family in Shelby County. He also understands that as a student-athlete he is a role model to many and he does his best to set a positive example and message.

“Playing sports gives you an incredible opportunity to develop as a young man or a young woman, and it has helped me so much,” Dudchock said. “The Lord has granted you with a gift and opportunity to play an incredible game, so take advantage of all opportunities to continue to pursue excellence and to serve the Lord.”

Dudchock plans to graduate from Vanderbilt in 2016 and plans to pursue opportunities in higher education or business.

ARTS COUNCIL CORNER

soul

SCAC serves up jazz, blues and

Story by LINDSAY DYESS Photograph CONTRIBUTED

L

ABOVE: Gabriel Tajeu returns to the Shelby County Arts Council in February for a Valentine’s Day performance.

ooking for a little entertainment this February? Look to the Shelby County Arts Council where something new and exciting is always happening.

The SCAC is dedicated to bringing everyone the best entertainment and this month they have handpicked some of the best acts around.

Let the good times roll on Feb. 7 with the Mardi Gras Bash featuring local musical act 2Blu and the Lucky Stiffs. Get ready for a New Orleans style party complete with dancing and drinks.

Expressionist painter Scott Owen will paint live as the band plays, and you will even have the opportunity to purchase the painting at an auction at the end of the show. Tickets are $20 and include a beverage reception hosted by Lewis Lakes Vineyards and chocolate desserts. Partygoers are encouraged to dress in Mardi Gras style attire. The party starts at 7 p.m.; don’t be late!

Haven’t made Valentine’s Day plans yet?

Birmingham’s Gabriel Tajeu returns with special guest Chelsey Whild. Get carried away with Tajeu’s soulful tunes and Whild’s sweet indie pop beats. This is the perfect date night opportunity.

Your ticket includes a beverage reception by Lewis

Lakes Vineyards and chocolate desserts. The performance will be Feb. 14 at 8 p.m., and doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20.

If jazz is more your style then you won’t want to miss Living Legends of Jazz and Blues with Cleve Eaton and Ray Reach and Friends. On Feb. 28 these legendary musicians come together for a night of jazz and blues that can’t be missed. Both of these Alabama natives have had a long and popular career in the jazz world and bring their gifts to the Shelby County Arts Council. If you are a jazz enthusiast, you will not want to miss this performance. Tickets are $20 with a special student (18 and under) price of $10. Be sure to get your tickets soon as there is a limited availability.

Performance begins at 8 p.m., and doors open at 7 p.m.

February brings some of the best acts we have seen yet to the Shelby County Arts Council.

Don’t let the chilly weather keep you at home.

Grab a friend and check out a new show. For information on these shows, to purchase tickets or for more information on classes and other events please visit Shelbycountyartscouncil.com or call 205-669-0044. l February 2015 | 15

ARTS & CULTURE

Knit One, Purl Two Sally Chew creates one-of-a-kind knit scarves, gloves, sweaters and more Story and photographs by LAURA BROOKHART

S

ally Chew’s “Knit One, Purl Two” hand-knitted creations began to appear at local shows some six years ago, when she converted her hobby into a cottage industry.

She recalls that her greatgrandmother taught her to crochet at the age of five and that through the years her needles and yarn have been an additional expression of her lifelong natural love for color and design.

A former interior designer who

16 | ShelbyLiving.com

attended the New York School of Interior Design, Chew grew up spending her summers in Shelby County with her grandparents.

“I played in the creek with my sister, Susan, near Dr. Sorrell’s Dairy Barn,” she relates. “Today it is part of the Sunny Meadows subdivision off 119. My grandfather, before his death in 1965, contributed much to the initial growth of North Shelby County.”

A member of the Shelby County

ABOVE LEFT: Chew creates scarves, sweaters, shrugs, gloves and more using yarns made of wool, linen and silk.

ABOVE RIGHT: Shelby County resident Sally Chew is owner of Knit One, Purl Two.

Arts Council, Chew recently participated in the group’s annual December Artist Market. She is a frequent vendor at Pepper Place Market with her ever-evolving stylish knits.

She also participates as a vendor at Scott’s Antique Market in Atlanta and last spring at the Chattanooga Market, where she was featured as a new artist.

Her scarves, shawls, sweaters and shrugs bear no sewn-in tag, but have a small sterling S denoting they are part of her Silver Collection.

“I use only the very finest yarns, in wool, linen and silk,” she notes, “and everything I make is one-of-a-kind.”

Her fingerless gloves and yarn necklaces are also fun and popular items.

Chew recently created several combination knitted styles in a muted palette for the grand opening French-inspired show by designer Jon Martinez, formerly of Bloom, now owner of a new shop, Merci.

“I’m not the plain vanilla type,” Sally Chew said, smiling the rim of her glitter-edged spectacles. “In fact, I collect zebras.

To me they symbolize individuality, as their stripes are never repeated, you know.”

“And,” she adds, “in life, nothing is all black or white.”

So, Sally Chew continues clicking her needles together.

“I once knitted charity blankets for newborns, but today I create and share because I enjoy interacting with people; it gives me something to look forward to,” she said. “For me, it’s the perfect way to be creative with a purpose.”

Sally Chew welcomes special orders and may be contacted at Sachoo@aol.com or 205-969-8050. l February 2015 | 17

HEALTH & RECREATION

New sport makes its way to Mt Laurel Story and photograph by BAKER ELLIS

ABOVE: Pickleballers from left: Neill Beavers, Chris MacDonalds, Bubba Bullington, and Joe Hillard prepare for a game.

18 | ShelbyLiving.com

O

n an outdoor basketball court in Mt Laurel, just a few miles off of U.S. 280, there’s something happening.

Four people, with a median age hovering around 50, are huddled around a net inside some makeshift lines-of-play whacking what looks eerily similar to a neon yellow whiffle ball from one side to the other. What’s taking place is a sport called pickleball.

Pickleball started in 1965, outside of Seattle, as an alternative sport for bored children to play in the summer when the regular sports weren’t holding their attention. Since its development, the game has exploded across the country, finding a home everywhere from New York to Florida to Oregon.

The game is a combination of volleyball, tennis, and badminton. Usually played in groups of four on a court the same size as a doubles badminton court, pickleball is meant as a social way to raise your heart rate.

Games are played to 11, and scored one point at a time. The paddles look slightly like oversized ping pong paddles, and teams can only score while serving. More rules can be found at the national

pickleball website, Usapa.org.

Neill Beavers, local pickleball enthusiast and Birmingham patron of the game, has brought the sport to the local market and is trying to raise awareness for the game.

“I learned to play in Kalamazoo, Michigan,” Beavers said. “That place is a lot smaller than Birmingham, and they had nine separate places to play pickleball in the city.”

Mt Laurel is currently the only option for any potential pickleballers in the Birmingham area to try the game out. They play every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m. on the outdoor basketball courts just past the fire department station in Mt. Laurel.

“It’s such a social game,” Beavers said.

“Whereas with tennis or something else, you might need to be invited to play or know someone there or call ahead to reserve a court, that’s not what pickleball is about. Show up at any time, and I promise you’ll be welcome.”

For more information about where and when to play, and how you can get involved, please contact Neill Beavers at his email address, neillbeavers@ gmail.com. l

HEALTH HEALTH & RECREATION & FITNESS

Happy hearts St. Vincent’s continues its commitment to cardiology service Story by SHANON HAMILTON

F

ebruary is Happy Heart month, when children give foil-wrapped chocolate hearts in the name of St. Valentine and adults purchase gifts at our spa at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

But for St. Vincent’s, February is more than a chocolate-and-gifts month. We know it as the month for St. Vincent’s Health System’s annual Heart Day. On Feb. 21 from 6-11 a.m., St. Vincent’s One Nineteen will offer three heart tests for only $30. Our discounted Heart Day screenings – Lipid Profile, Blood Pressure and Basic Metabolic Profile – have become our annual way to bring awareness to heart disease in the community. Each year those screenings help cardiologists detect preliminary symptoms of heart disease.

Many area residents consider our Heart Day an annual tradition. But not everyone knows the full range of cardiology services we provide daily at One Nineteen. Some don’t find out about those services until they seek a physician’s help after a heart attack or they receive a diagnosis of heart disease.

However, a growing number are taking a different track. They’re seeking One Nineteen’s heart-friendly services as part of their whole-health emphasis. A new generation of adults is seeking to build year-round happy heart traditions in their families.

Some are changing family patterns through One Nineteen’s family fitness memberships. Some are pursuing diabetes education through our expert sources.

Some consult with our registered dietitian to change family eating habits.

And although many area residents choose to see their physician at One Nineteen, others with doctors outside St. Vincent’s Health System are asking their physicians to order their diagnostic testing at our facility, due to its easy access and tranquil tone.

Here are some of the cardiology-related diagnostic services we offer every day, as we seek to nurture more happy hearts: uGraded Exercise Test (Stress Test or GXT) and Nuclear GXT – measurement of your cardiovascular fitness uEchocardiogram – uses sound waves

to form a picture of heart muscle and valves uArterial, Venous and Carotid Ultrasounds – shows blood flow and potential blockages uAnkle-Brachial Index (ABI) – measures blood pressure to determine the legs’ blood supply uHolter Monitoring – continuously monitors every heart beat over a period of time uEvent Monitoring – records your heartbeat at intervals throughout the day uPhase III Cardiac Rehabilitation – program to support those recovering from heart-related conditions uSmart Score Cardiac Calcium CT Scoring – CT scan assessing the calcium buildup in heart vessels As always, we ask Heart Day participants to register with St. Vincent’s Dial-A-Nurse (939-7878) by Feb. 13. To learn more about Heart Day and all of our cardiology services, visit stvhs.com. l Shanon Hamilton is St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Director of Clinical Services.

February 2015 | 19

HEALTH & RECREATION

Rough riders

Oak Mountain BMX draws racers of all ages Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Photographs by JON GOERING

S

teve Talley Jr. is only 13, but he knows exactly what he want to be when he grows up – a professional BMX racer.

Talley Jr., who is known as “Bubba,” has already put in a lot of time and effort toward that goal. He began racing at 8 years old, and 20 | ShelbyLiving.com

spends many weeknights and weekends at Oak Mountain BMX, where he practices and his father, Steve Talley Sr., is the track operator.

Talley Jr. is in good company. The track stays busy throughout the year with a dedicated group of regular riders.

Talley Sr. said the typical rider’s age is 12-15 years old, but people of all ages race from toddlers to senior citizens.

“There’s really no age limit,” Talley Sr. said. “I think the oldest that’s been out here is 80.”

The first Oak Mountain BMX track was built in 1979. It has moved locations two times, always within Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham.

Volunteers maintain the track and run the races, including Assistant Track Director Derrick Murray.

“It takes a lot of passion and a lot of time commitment,” Talley Sr. said. “It’s about like a second job that you’ve got to love because you definitely don’t get paid for it.”

The Oak Mountain BMX track was built about a

decade after the sport first emerged in the last 60s and early 70s, according to the USA BMX website.

BMX – Bicycle Motorcross – racing got its start in southern California with a group of children who began riding modified bicycles in a manner similar to motorcycle racers.

The sport caught on, and by the late 70s, “loosely organized” BMX races were being held across the country, according to BMX USA’s website. The American Bicycle Association was founded as a BMX national sanctioning body, although some riders competed in the National

ABOVE: Oak Mountain BMX hosts races twice a month and an open practice every Friday night during the season.

February 2015 | 21

THIS SPREAD: Scenes from a recent race at the Oak Mountain BMX track in Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham. Riders are required to wear long-sleeve jersey and helmets, among other safety equipment.

22 | ShelbyLiving.com

Bicycle League.

The sport’s popularity grew with national and pro tours and competitions. In 2003, BMX was made a full medal Olympic sport. Five years later, the ABA bought out the NBL and the group was renamed USA BMX, of which Oak Mountain BMX is a member.

Oak Mountain BMX’s normal season runs from — Steve Talley Jr. late February through early December. The group typically hosts races twice a month and an open practice every Friday night during the season, and the track is available to the

“I’m wanting to make it my job when I get older, I’m planning on racing until I can’t anymore.”

February 2015 | 23

THIS SPREAD: Riders are judged on their speed in completing the course, which includes obstacles such as jumps and tables tops.

public any time the park is open.

Riders must wear certain safety equipment, including full face helmets and long-sleeved jerseys when competing.

During competitions, riders race in categories based on proficiency: beginner, intermediate and expert. They are judged on their speed in completing the course, which includes obstacles such as jumps and table tops (plateaus).

Talley Sr. said the sport is family friendly.

24 | ShelbyLiving.com

That’s definitely the case for the Talleys. Talley Sr.’s wife, Leann, serves as treasurer of the track, while their daughter runs the concession stand.

“It becomes a lifestyle,” Talley Sr. said.

The Talleys also spend a lot of time with other racing families, both on and off the track. They hang out together, interact on social media and travel for national competitions.

For Talley Jr., that’s his favorite part of the sport – “the competition and the different places we go.

February 2015 | 25

ABOVE: A fan cheers on a little rider at the track. Riders range in age from 3-80 years old. RIGHT: A rider performs a jump while navigating the Oak Mountain BMX track.

You can make a lot of friends.”

Talley Jr. competes on Kids Dynamite and Rad Racing teams. He has traveled to Nashville, Tenn., West Monroe, La., and Orlando, Fla., for recent competitions, and he has no plans to stop.

“I’m wanting to make it my job when I get older,” he said. “I’m planning on racing until I can’t anymore.”

For more information, visit Oakmountainbmx. com. l

26 | ShelbyLiving.com

FEATURES

28 | ShelbyLiving.com

voice

What a

After an amazing run on The Voice, Spain Park High School graduate Jessie Pitts prepares to take the next step in her music career Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Photographs by NBC UNIVERSAL MEDIA

J

LEFT : Spain Park High School graduate Jessie Pitts performs “Holding Out for a Hero” The Voice’s live playoffs.

Photo by Tyler Golden/NBC.

essie Pitts is only 18 years old, but the Shelby County native has trained with Grammywinning singers, performed for millions on national TV and is planning to release a music video in early 2015.

But she is not satisfied yet.

Only a few months after the Spain Park High School graduate was eliminated from The Voice – the NBC reality TV singing competition – she is already looking to the future.

“I want to be really smart with my next step,” she said.

That means focusing on quality and staying true to her vision and style, which she describes as indie/pop – “a more edgy Sara Bareilles or less edgy Ellie Goulding.”

She wants to be known, however, as the first Jessie Pitts.

A lot of people already know Pitts’ name thanks to her stint on The Voice. She now has more

than 31,000 Twitter followers and 6,000 likes on Facebook.

Family and friends in the north Shelby County area already knew about her singing prowess, however. Pitts, who has five siblings and is originally from Tennessee, has been singing for as long as she can remember and said her father has been a big musical influence throughout her life.

“He raised me on The Beatles, bluegrass, jazz and all different kinds of music,” she said.

After moving to the Birmingham area with her family about nine years ago, Pitts began to get serious about performing and singing. She joined a choir, and her directors encouraged her to audition for solos and develop her stage presence.

Pitts first auditioned for The Voice two years ago.

She received a callback but was cut in a later round with the judges encouraging her to return after she gained experience and maturity. She began working for a record label, where she learned more about February 2015 | 29

ABOVE : Pitts performs Sara Bareilles’ “Gravity” to a live audience. Photo by Trae Patton/NBC.

30 | ShelbyLiving.com

the music industry. She also enrolled at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn.

In January 2014 she auditioned again, and this time she made it through a series of callbacks to earn a spot on the show in California.

Filming began in May 2014 and continued intermittently through December. Pitts withdrew from school and spent all of 2014 traveling between California and Alabama.

“My year has totally revolved around The Voice,” Pitts said. “It kind of flipped my life upside down but in a good way.”

The Voice features five stages of competition from blind auditions to battle rounds to live

performances. Gwen Stefani, Pharrell Williams, Blake Shelton and Adam Levine serve as coaches and select the contestants they want to work with during a blind audition.

During the blind auditions, contestants perform a song for the coaches, who can hear but not see them. During Pitts’ audition, both Stefani and Shelton pushed a button indicating they wanted to work with her.

Pitts was torn between the two. Going into the show, she wanted to work with Shelton, but chose to join “Team Gwen” after some recruiting by Stefani.

In each round, Pitts worked with Stefani and

Even though their judgment isn’t always amazing,

“My year has totally revolved around The Voice. It kind of flipped my life upside down but in a good way.”

their healthcare is.

Healthcare as amazing as their potential

1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

— Jessie Pitts February 2015 | 31

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Pitts sings “Zombie” in the wildcard round. Photo by Tyler Golden/NBC. During her blind audition, both Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton recruited her to join their teams. Photo by Tyler Golden/NBC. Pitts performs “Don’t You Worry Child” for a live audience. Photo by Trae Patton/NBC.

guest artists to prepare for the competition.

During a battle round, Pitts was knocked out of the competition after performing against another member of Team Gwen.

Luckily, she was saved by Shelton, who hit a button indicting he wanted to save her from elimination and have her join his team.

“I was walking off the stage to say goodbye and then Blake hit the button. I just collapsed. I didn’t believe it,” she said.

That night is one of her favorite memories of the show. Immediately after taping the show, she began rehearsal for the next competition. She changed clothes, hair and makeup and rehearsed late into the night with Shelton.

“I had just gotten saved, and I was so happy to be there,” she recalled.

That kind of dedication was expected from the contestants and the coaches. Contestants spent day and night training and rehearsing. They had professional choreographers on hand and practiced with a live band consisting of “probably the best musicians I’ll ever work with,” Pitts said.

The coaches and guest artists, including Taylor Swift, were invested in helping the contestants

improve each round.

“They want us to look the best we possibly can,” Pitts said.

Pitts made it to the Top 12 before she was eliminated, although she flew back out to California in mid-December for the chance to make it back on the show in a “wild card” round.

Although she did not make the spot, Pitts said her experience on The Voice was fantastic. She became friends with the contestants and grew as an artist. She got over her stage fright and learned to feel confident on stage, in addition to strengthening her voice.

“I can sing notes that I couldn’t before,” she said.

“That’s definitely a blessing.”

She has been contacted by many producers and managers since her time on The Voice, but wants to be careful about her next step.

She hopes to move to Nashville by February 2015 and release a music video around the same time.

She also has been writing her own songs and would like to release an EP in 2016.

“I have a fan base now that’s super supportive and ready to buy my album when it’s out,” she said.

“I’m excited for the future.” l

FOLLOW JESSIE Want to keep up with Jessie Pitts as she takes the next step in her music career?

Twitter: @JessiePitts724 Facebook: /JessiePittsMusic 32 | ShelbyLiving.com

Email: Jessiepittsmusic@gmail.com YouTube: Jessie Pitts

February 2015 | 33

FEATURES

Operation Inspiration National commercial features Calera family Story by GRAHAM BROOKS Photographs by JON GOERING

M

ABOVE LEFT: Military veteran Jason Sissel and his family were awarded a home, a brand new patio, sod and lawn furniture.

ABOVE RIGHT: Members of the Calera community and family members cheer as the Sissel family is awarded a brand new patio by Eckrich Operation Inspiration on Thursday, Dec. 11

34 | ShelbyLiving.com

ilitary families must sacrifice a lot and deal with things an average family might not have to endure such as medical bills, relocation

and more.

For the Sissel family, their lives have been made a little easier due to a program called Operation Inspiration, sponsored by Ekrich, a national food brand.

Two years ago, Operation Inspiration profiled, honored and surprised deserving military families across the country, according to a statement on the Eckrich website. In 2014, they teamed up with CMT Hot 20 Countdown and sports stars such as Richard Petty and Kirk Herbstreit for the program.

In August, Heather Sissel, wife of Jason Sissel, saw that a Calera house was available through the Operation Inspiration program. She got the news that her family had been awarded the home in October.

Jason Sissel served in the military in 2003 but was injured and medically separated, or retired, in October 2005.

Jason had to endure an 11-hour surgery and has dealt with severe post-traumatic stress disorder and other problems ever since.

On Thursday, Dec. 11, Eckrich representatives were at the Sissels’ home in Calera to film a national commercial and award a few more surprises in addition to the home they were given.

The Sissel family was awarded a brand new patio that included a new grill, new sod and lawn furniture.

The Sissels were overcome with emotion and speechless when they saw what Eckrich and Operation Inspiration had done for them.

“Basically, we won the lottery twice in two months,” Heather Sissel said. “We have not had good luck with VA (Veterans Affairs) and (Operation Inspiration) awarded us the home, and now the backyard is going to change our family in so many ways. We came back to family, my mom lives here and friends are here. The home is going to be a place where we can spend the rest of our lives and have our grandkids over.”

The commercial will consist of the Sissels’ reaction to being awarded the patio and a year’s worth of free groceries.

Members of the Calera football team were brought in as extras to make the scene look like a backyard cookout complete with corn hole and food from Eckrich.

The commercial aired nationally in December. l

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FEATURES

GOLDEN

dreams

Special Olympics champions call Shelby County home Story by DREW GRANTHUM Photographs by JON GOERING

T

he ultimate goal of many athletes is to be the best in whatever sporting endeavor they choose to pursue.

Athletes sacrifice time, money and other engagements in order to spend time training to shave a tenth of a second or to help boost performance in the clutch. Being the best in the world isn’t easy, but if you have the drive and the dream, it’s worth every second of hard work.

Just ask Columbiana’s Mario Youngblood or Alabaster’s Rusty Montgomery. The two athletes have traveled very different roads as far as sporting endeavors. For Youngblood, track and field competitions are his specialty, whereas Montgomery is a fantastic bowler and golfer. The two men have taken very different paths to arrive at the same destination: Gold medal winner at the Special Olympics.

Each captured a gold medal at the 2014 Special Olympics, held in Princeton, N.J., with Youngblood taking gold in the 4x100 relay as well as the high jump and managed a bronze in the 100-meter dash. Montgomery paired with partner David Litton to take a gold in the Level 2 Alternate Shot Team Play golf tournament. For each, getting to the top of their respective sport wasn’t easy, but the road to gold has taken them to heights they never even dreamed about.

For Rusty Montgomery, winning just seems to come as second nature. The Alabaster native has had experience competing at the Special Olympics as part of the Shelby County Unified Bowlers team. It was through this team that Rusty was able to meet and get to know David Litton.

Litton, whose wife, Gay, is the director of Shelby County Special Olympics, said the two of them 36 | ShelbyLiving.com

decided to try a new endeavor: Golf.

Litton, who professes to not be a golf pro, said Montgomery has learned the game in a short time.

“He’s done well,” he said. “I’m not a great golfer, (but) we have managed to play well together. I took him out (to) try to teach the fundamentals. He’s come along pretty well.”

Litton said Montgomery studied the game, taking in tournaments on TV to help better understand the game. After time, the duo began playing alternating-shot golf, where they split up a hole by swapping out which golfer shoots after each shot.

“I think he watched it enough,” Litton said.

“When we first started, we played nine holes. We shot in the mid-to-upper 60s. Now, we usually shoot in the mid-to-low 50s.”

In time, the two began testing the waters through tournaments, such as the one at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, before taking on the Special Olympics Alabama state tournament.

From there, Litton and Montgomery took on all comers, using a strong showing on the second day of the tournament to solidify a gold medal.

For Litton, winning was rewarding, but it didn’t quite measure up to the ultimate goal of seeing Rusty and his family celebrate.

“I can’t tell you how rewarding it was to see his face,” he said. “Not only his face, but his parents.

They get so excited.”

Don Montgomery, Rusty’s father, agreed.

“His self-confidence, it’s amazing what (the Special Olympics have) done for him,” he said.

Rusty, 43, struggled with getting out and meeting new people, Don said. It was only after picking up bowling in 1997 and subsequent

RIGHT: Columbiana native Mario Youngblood poses with his gold medals from the 2014 Special Olympics.

February 2015 | 37

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Rusty Montgomery recently won a gold medal in golf at the Special Olympics Alabama state tournament. David Litton, left, and Rusty Montgomery, right, practice their golf swings at Montevallo golf course. Litton and Montgomery.

involvement with Special Olympics that Rusty began to show others his personality.

“When he first started bowling, he was so shy he would not look you in the eye,” Don said.

Slowly, though, Rusty began to be more comfortable in himself and his ability to bowl.

When Litton and Rusty started golf, Don said, it elevated Rusty’s social skills.

“It’s good for him mentally and physical,” he said.

“There’s no way to describe that joy.

It’s a tremendous amount of pride and gratitude (from us) that he’s found that niche.”

Similarly, Mario Youngblood has become quite the symbol of pride for his hometown of Columbiana. From his bright, warm smile to his effervescent and kind-hearted nature, Youngblood

has served as quite the ambassador for the county seat.

A fantastic runner, the 27-year-old Youngblood qualified for the 2014 National Games in four sports: The 100-meter dash, the 200-meter dash, the 4x100 relay and the high jump.

Youngblood took the gold in the high jump and the relay, with each victory coming with a story of perseverance.

In the high jump, the opportunity for gold came down between Youngblood and another competitor.

While the young man gave it his best, Youngblood simply — Don Montgomery out jumped him down the stretch to take home the gold.

“I was happy, (but) I was trying not to show it, because the kid looked kind of sad,” Youngblood said in a July 2014 interview, shortly after he returned from competition. “I was

“There’s no way to describe that joy. It’s a tremendous amount of pride and gratitude (from us) that he’s found that niche.”

38 | ShelbyLiving.com

February 2015 | 39

ABOVE LEFT: Montgomery takes a swing at the Montevallo golf course.

ABOVE RIGHT: Youngblood took gold in the high jump and the relay at the national games.

40 | ShelbyLiving.com

really happy, but I felt bad for him. He jumped his heart out, and he competed with me.”

Where all of Youngblood’s hard work paid off was in the 4x100 relay. With only a short distance remaining in the race, Youngblood found himself trailing first place by only a few feet.

Summoning all of his strength, Youngblood began to reel in the first place contestant. With only a few meters remaining, He pulled ahead, capturing the race win — and his second gold medal of the 2014 games.

While proud of the accomplishment, Youngblood said the most important part of succeeding on a national stage to him was representing his hometown and his alma mater, Shelby County High.

“It just feels good to do something good for the school,” he said in an Oct. 2014 interview. “It made me feel good. I felt like I did something for Alabama.”

Not only does Youngblood take his hometown

with him on his travels, he bases all of his training out of Columbiana.

“I go down to the (Elvin Hill) track,” he said.

“Basically, I practice for the event I’m entering.”

With SCHS teacher Marisol Walker keeping track of his lap times, Youngblood worked at each of the four events he was entered until time to depart for Princeton.

Once he embarked on his journey, Youngblood was on his own — literally. No one from Shelby County went with him, as he was the only member of the team from the area.

Despite never having been to New Jersey before — or even an airplane, for that matter — Youngblood took to the track like a seasoned veteran, bringing the two gold medals back home for all of Coulmbiana to see.

After all, Youngblood said, it was the support of the town that got him on that stage.

“People (in town) take care of me,” he said.

“They help me when I need help.” l

xx FEATURES

Model mentors Big Brothers Big Sisters branches out in Shelby County

I

Story by AMY JONES Photographs by NEAL WAGNER AND STEPHANIE BRUMFIELD

n 2014, 100 of Shelby County’s children who were in need of positive adult role models saw those needs met, thanks to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby County.

BBBS is a mentoring organization that works to provide positive role models for children who need them. Typically, the organization serves children in foster homes, kids being raised by grandparents or other guardians, children in

single-parent homes and any child that’s in need of a positive role model.

While BBBS of Greater Birmingham has always served Shelby County, it wasn’t until October 2013 that Shelby County had a BBBS program to call its own.

Kim Egan, who directs the Shelby County program and is a county native, said that over the course of her 14-and-a-half year career, she has

LEFT: Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor Rani Crear works with her “Little Brother,” Keelan Howard, during a ceremony in the Creek View Elementary School library on Dec. 15.

RIGHT: Sky Acosta, left, meets his Big Brother John Pate, right, at Montevallo Elementary School Oct. 16.

Acosta is a third grader at Montevallo Elementary, and Pate is a senior at Montevallo High School.

February 2015 | 43

always wanted to bring BBBS to Shelby County.

“It’s exciting. It’s kind of like a fresh start for Big Brothers Big Sisters,” she said.

In October 2013, BBBS started in the Vincent and Montevallo schools. In the school-based program, high school students and community adults spend about 45 minutes a week mentoring elementary students during the school day.

BBBS also has a community-based program, in which mentors actually take children on outings, such as trips to the movies or out to eat.

While BBBS of Shelby County has been going strong for more than a year, it wasn’t until October 2014 that the organization opened an office in Shelby County — in Alabaster, to be — Kim Egan exact. The city of Alabaster offered a space called The Depot, behind Thompson Intermediate School, Egan said.

The school-based program is in the process of expanding into Alabaster City Schools. The organization will work

“It’s exciting.

It’s kind of like a fresh start for Big Brothers Big Sisters”

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Alabaster, Shelby County and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Alabama representatives celebrate the grand opening of the agency’s new location in Alabaster. Alabaster’s depot building off Thompson Road will house administrative offices for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Alabama for the next year. EBSCO employee Ashley Buchanan with her Little, Skyler, a student at Vincent Elementary.

February 2015 | 45

ABOVE: From left, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham CEO Sue Johnson, Shelby County commissioner Mike Vest, Montevallo Middle School principal Shelia Lewis, Shelby County Schools Superintedent Randy Fuller and Montevallo Elementary principal Allison Campbell gathered at Montevallo Elementary Oct. 16 to announce the coming of Big Brothers Big Sisters to Shelby County.

46 | ShelbyLiving.com

with Creek View Elementary, Meadow View Elementary and Thompson Intermediate, Egan said.

The program already has seen success in Vincent and Montevallo, with numbers of mentors and children being served doubling, Egan said.

However, she said the children aren’t the only ones benefiting from the program.

“I see it two-fold,” Egan said. “I see children that are being helped in elementary schools, but I also see those high schoolers who are taking on that responsibility to be mentors.”

Eventually, Egan said she hopes to see a BBBS presence in every school in Shelby County.

“We would love to continue to have an office in Shelby County, and also just serve more children in Shelby County,” she said. “In 2014, we served 100 children in Shelby County. We’re hoping to double that, or at least serve 175 children, in 2015.”

Egan said she’s heard from volunteers who are thrilled to be able to spend time in their communities, instead of traveling to Birmingham to work with BBBS. “The number one thing that I’ve heard from

adults is that they’re excited we’re here because they want to volunteer and they want to do things, but they’ve had to go to Birmingham to do things,” she said. “Now they’re excited to help children in their own community.”

Egan said BBBS of Shelby County will have its own fundraiser this year, a dinner to be held in May. For more details on the fundraiser or to get more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby County, contact Kim Egan on her cell phone at (205) 434-6017, at her office at (205) 378-4050 or via email at knegan@bbbsbhm.org.

Any child wishing to participate in Big Brothers Big Sisters must be between the ages of 7-15 and must need a positive role model. There is no fee to participate. l February 2015 | 47

FOOD

Bad to the

Bone Big Bad Breakfast serves up a breakfast lover’s dream Written by AMY JONES Photographs by JON GOERING and CONTRIBUTED

I

f you name a restaurant Big Bad Breakfast, you better have the chops to back it up.

Fortunately, Chef John Currence definitely does. A 30-year veteran of the culinary world, Currence is well known for his Oxford, Miss. eateries, including City Grocery, Snackbar, Bouré, Lamar Lounge and the original Big Bad Breakfast.

If those credentials aren’t enough, then Currence’s James Beard Award should be enough to convince any doubters.

Although Currence has conquered Oxford, he was ready to branch out into other locales.

He connected with the owners of Birminghambased barbecue brand Jim ’N Nick’s, and together they decided to open a Big Bad Breakfast in the Birmingham area – on U.S. 280 in Hoover, to be 48 | ShelbyLiving.com

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: A creole omelet with home fries and toast. Bartender Kaylyn Ray serves up a Big Bad Bloody Mary. The restaurant sells a variety of logoed apparel and items.

February 2015 | 49

ABOVE: The Hog Parlor croissant sandwich comes with a variety of sides, including cheese grits. RIGHT: The restaurant is open 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the weekends.

50 | ShelbyLiving.com

precise.

The restaurant opened in June 2014 to a steady flow of customers and has never looked back.

“It’s been tremendous. Business is wonderful.

Folks are very pleased with the product and the experience,” Currence says. “We were able to tackle this philosophy of offering an almost-fine-dining experience in a breakfast setting, which is what sets us apart from the rest of the pack. That’s what my guys are doing there. They have bought in and are driving this thing straight uphill.”

While Currence’s home base is still Oxford, he travels to Birmingham regularly to see the restaurant and gets daily reports.

Currence, who says he “loves everything about breakfast,” offers anything a breakfast aficionado

could want on the Big Bad Breakfast menu.

Breakfast choices include egg plates, such as the Big Bad Breakfast Plate, which comes with two eggs cooked to order, a choice of meats including bacon, sausage patty, chicken sausage, andouille sausage or country ham, a choice of grits or home fries with red eye, sausage or tomato gravy, and either toast or a biscuit.

Currence says omelets are popular; choices include the Good Ol’ Boy, with house-made chili and cheddar cheese, or the Cahaba Lily, with seasonal fresh herbs, tomato, shallots and Swiss cheese. Customers can also select breakfast skillets, such as the Creola, done up with crawfish, andouille sausage, onions, bell peppers, scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, tomatoes and creole-

February 2015 | 51

ABOVE: Chef Leo Oliver cooks up the tasty dishes at Big Bad Breakfast, such as shrimp and grits, fried pork belly quesadillas and creole. RIGHT: Big Bad Breakfast has a down-home feel, which matches its comfort food dishes.

seasoned hash.

Those who aren’t egg lovers can look to the buttermilk or oatmeal pancakes, topped with whipped cream and strawberries, or the Belgian waffle. There’s also pain perdue, which is brandy-spiked French toast with powdered sugar, whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Of course, not everybody’s in the mood for breakfast all the time, so the restaurant also offers a selection of burgers – the Moo Radley includes a grilled burger patty on a split top sourdough bun with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles and Tabasco mayonnaise. A bevy of other toppings can also be added.

Or try a sandwich, such as the Elvis: peanut butter, bananas, Big Bad Breakfast bacon and mayonnaise on white or wheat bread, fried on the griddle.

You can also have the best of both worlds – breakfast and lunch – with the Greenbow County Cathead, a buttermilk biscuit sandwich with a choice of bacon, patty sausage, andouille, country ham or chicken, topped off with a slice of cheddar cheese.

(In case you haven’t noticed, some of the dishes’ names give a wink to a few pieces of Alabama heritage. The Moo Radley, of course, pays homage to Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” while the Greenbow County Cathead should remind customers of a man named Forrest Gump.)

Currence says he feels the breakfast market is “tragically underserved,” and Big Bad Breakfast is a chance to offer customers their favorite comfort food items with a gourmet spin – at a good price.

“I come to it from the experience of a chef in fine dining,” he says. “We 52 | ShelbyLiving.com

February 2015 | 53

want to provide people with an alternative where we can hit quality food and service at an affordable price point and deliver that experience to a greater segment of the population.”

The Birmingham location of Big Bad Breakfast has been in the works for two years now.

Currence says both he and the owners of Jim ’N Nick’s had other business ventures and personal milestones that needed attention before the idea of Big Bad Breakfast could come to fruition.

They preferred to do it right rather than doing it quickly, he says.

“We wanted to make sure that we got it absolutely right before we launched,” Currence says. “We had a very deliberate thought to everything that went into it.”

All that deliberate thought, fine food and strong service goes into making first-time customers say what Currence wants them to say: “Honey, we’re gonna come back. And why haven’t we been here before?”

Big Bad Breakfast is located at 5361 U.S. 280.

Contact the restaurant at 205-490-7568. l RIGHT: The Low Country includes shrimp, Andouille, onions, roasted corn, tomatoes, steamed new potato hash, two scrambled eggs and cheddar cheese.

54 | ShelbyLiving.com

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce C o m m u n i t y • C o m m e rc e • C o l l a b o r a t i o n

Business Connections

The Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 3rd Annual Industry Appreciation Event on February 19 at Inverness Country Club from 4:00PM until 6:00PM. The purpose of this event is to recognize and thank industry for conducting business in Shelby County and share the positive impact those businesses have on our community. This year we will be recognizing the

Sponsor:

Chamber’s certified Green Businesses along with the businesses that hosted a quarterly Industry Tour in 2014.

The Greater Shelby

County Chamber of Commerce and Shelby County Economic & Industrial Development Authority thank Regions Bank for sponsoring this

event. For more information on the Green Business Program, hosting an Industry Tour or attending the event, please contact Brooke Story at brooke@shelbychamber. org or by telephone at 6634542, ext. 105.

February Membership Program To Feature“State of the County” Presentation The Chamber’s February Membership Program will feature a “State of the County” presentation on February 25.

The meeting, sponsored by Shelby County Newspapers, will be held in the banquet hall at the Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena. Doors will open at 11:00AM for business networking and the program will begin promptly at 11:30AM.

In addition to the great business networking, we’ll also hear from Shelby County Manager Alex Dudchock on progress made last year and what’s in store for 2015.

The cost is $20 per person for Chamber members and $30 per person for “Future” Members and includes a luncheon buffet. For more information, or to make a reservation visit www.

Sponsor:

Featured Speaker:

shelbychamber.org or please contact the Chamber at info@ shelbychamber.org or by telephone at 663-4542.

February 2015 | 55 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce is Hosting 3rd Annual Industry Appreciation Event

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Volunteers Needed for “Keeping It Real” Program in February

Newsletter

The Chamber is seeking volunteers for a 1/2 - full day for its “Keeping It Real” program on Thursday, February 12 at Helena High School, 1310 Hillsboro Parkway, Helena and on Thursday, February 27 at Shelby County High School, 101 Washington Street, Columbiana. Volunteers would manage a station and assist 9th grade students as they “pay bills” and make “life choices” based on random-assigned life situations. The program is co-sponsored by The UPS Store Caldwell Mill/ Hoover and Legacy Community Federal Credit Union.

If you, or your colleagues,

2015 Co-sponsors:

are interested in being a volunteer, please call Keyla Handley at 663-4542, ext. 106 or email keyla@ shelbychamber.org. Volunteers would arrive as early as 7:30AM and the program would conclude by 3:00PM. Lunch is provided for all volunteers.

“Keeping It Real” program at Montevallo High School

“Keeping It Real” program at Calera High School

The “Keeping It Real” program took Shelby County students to a whole new reality recently at Calera and Montevallo High Schools.

The program teaches 9th grade students about “real world” life choices by giving them a random “life scenario” which includes marital/ family status, education, job and salary. The students then have to pay bills based on the random scenario. It has been an eyeopening experience for the 9th graders to say the least!

Seeking Volunteers to Share Expertise at the Chamber’s Career Awareness Fair The Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a Career Awareness Fair for Shelby County 10th grade students on April 23-24 at the Shelby County Exhibition Center. The program, sponsored by Legacy Community Federal Credit Union, is an opportunity for business professionals to share 1/2 - 1 day with students the education and/ or training requirements, salary range, workplace expectations and more needed to be employed in

Sponsor:

your respective field. We are seeking volunteers in the professions listed at right to address students in the real world of work.

If you or someone in your organization is interested in sharing your expertise, please contact Keyla Handley at 663-4542 ext. 106 or E-mail keyla@shelbychamber.org for more information.

Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Architecture & Construction Arts, AV Technology & Communication Business Management & Administration Education & Training Finance Government & Public Administration Health Science Hospitality & Tourism Human Services Information Technology Law, Public Safety, Corrections, Security Manufacturing Marketing Science, Technology, Engineering, Math Transportation, Distribution, Logistics

If you are interested in discussing advertising opportunities contact Rhett at 669-3131 or email rhett.mccreight@shelbycoutyreporter.com.

56 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Celebrating Growth in Shelby County

Gameday in Style held its official Ribbon Cutting ceremony to mark its grand opening in Inverness Corners. Owner Sylvia Gonda was joined by husband Matt, family, friends and Chamber Ambassadors.

Gameday in Style is a women’s boutique specializing in the hottest trends in unique fashions, accessories, handmade jewelry and fun gifts.

The Greater Shelby Chamber was honored to attend the Calera Chamber luncheon and the unveiling of the stone berm for the $14 million dollar Eagle Sports Complex which Lhoist North America has committed $7 million and the City of Calera has matched.

When completed, the Eagle Sports Complex will be a 65 acre park providing a multitude of amenities for the city.

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2015 Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Let’s Stop Heart Disease!

Newsletter

From a study done across the world, 90% of your risk for a heart attack can be determined by a simple clinic visit and inventorying 6 common risk factors. These are: 1. Physical inactivity.

Everyone should get 30 minutes of aerobic or symptom-limited activity 5 days a week or 150 minutes per week. If formal exercise is difficult, a pedometer can gauge your activity level. The American Heart Association suggests 10,000 steps per day.

2. Overweight/obesity.

You should know where you stand with body mass index.

This is your body weight divided by surface area of skin. The correct ratio is 25 or less. A body mass index over 30 qualifies as obese. It is predicted that in Alabama in 2015 Health Focus Sponsor

2030, 62% of our population will be obese. If you are in this category, a formal dietary intervention is worthwhile (such as weight watchers).

3. Tobacco use. If you smoke or are around secondhand smoke then you are depleting your heart artery reserves and battering the artery walls with a risk factor that is most likely to take the young, productive members of this world from us. It is important to set a quit date.

The number one indicator of whether you will quit is how many times you have tried. You must get smoking out of your environment. Then set a date that is at least 7 days away and not further than a month away and do your best. If you slip, you will have the experience of temporary success and it will be easier next time. Keep working on it.

4. Hypertension. The ideal blood pressure is 115/75. For every 20 points on top and 10 points on bottom that you go up, your risk of stroke (and heart attack and death) is doubled. When you are over

50, it is the top number that is most important.

So, when your blood pressure is 195 on top, your risk of stroke is 16-fold higher. The average number of pills it takes to control blood pressure in the US is 3.2. So, it might take some work, but simple medication for blood pressure might be the most important intervention we have to improve cardiovascular health in Alabama. You should have your blood pressure checked and get it controlled.

5. High cholesterol. You should have yours tested and often treated with medications if it is high and you have other risk factors on this list or have had a prior heart attack or stroke.

6. Diabetes. A fasting blood sugar can give you a good gauge of your risk for it and diagnose it. Treating it is valuable for preventing heart attack, blindness, and the need for dialysis.

Each of these risk factors doubles or triples your risk

for a heart Unfortunately, they are more potent

attack. together

at causing havoc, such that 3 wrong makes your risk 13-fold higher and 4 wrong makes your risk 42fold higher.

It really takes a comprehensive strategy for inventorying and then controlling each of these risk factors to prevent heart disease and stroke, and keep you functionally able and independent for as long as possible. For additional information about heart health, please contact us at 510-5000.

Article submitted by: Andrew P. Miller, M.D., FACC, FAHA, FASH, CardioVascular Associates

Go & Grow Workshop

“Using Media To Grow Your Business”

On February 10, the Chamber’s Go & Grow Workshop -- sponsored

by Charter Business and facilitated by Michael Smith of The Great, The Good and The Gone -- will provide strategies and action steps for attendees to use various forms of media to grow their business. Topics covered during this hands-on and interactive workshop include: u How To Use the Media To Find Opportunities To 58 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

Sponsor:

Grow Your Business. u Once Opportunities Are Identified, How Do You Engage Them? u Where Does Your Social Media Program Come Into Play? u How Do You Use Media To Help Get Your Message and Name Out? The workshop will be on

Tuesday, February 10 from 11:30AM-2:00PM at the Chamber. There is no cost to attend, but lunch is available for $10 per person for Chamber members ($20 for “Future” members).

To ensure we have a proper headcount, please make reservations by Monday, February 9 for this

workshop. Register online at www.shelbychamber. org or by contacting Brooke Story, the Chamber’s Director of Business Development & Support via e-mail at brooke@shelbychamber.org or by calling 663-4542, ext.

105.

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New Members (As of January 1, 2015)

Bahama Buck’s Original Shaved Ice Co.

Jay Yarborough

2300 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham

bahamabucks.com

Birmingham Marriott Hotel

Michael Miraglia

3590 Grandview Pkwy, Birmingham

marriott.com/bhmmc

Favorite Laundry

Kim Anderson

100 Croft St, Birmingham

Oh My Boutique & Gifts

A.J. Cooper

72 B Fulton Springs Rd, Alabaster

Salon Alisel and Kids

Rebecca Zavala

1240 1st Street No, Ste 100, Alabaster facebook.com/salonaliselandkids

Sealy Management Co. Inc

Heather Shipley

1200 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa

sealyrealty.com

State Farm Insurance, Tyler Rutledge Agency

Tyler Rutledge

16054 Highway 280, Ste 1600, Chelsea

Truitt Tingle & Paramore, LLC Ken Howell

5346 Stadium Trace Pkwy, Ste 202, Birmingham

Turtle Lake Apartment Homes Marilyn Hare

One Turtle Lake Dr, Birmingham

savingwithtyler.com ttpcpa.com

turtlelakeapts.info

Chamber’s Mentorship Program Providing Much Needed Assistance 2015 Sponsor:

employee.

The next Mentorship sessions will be held Tuesday, February 10 from 8:00AM-11:00AM. During that time, Michael Smith with the The Great, The Good and The Gone will be available for a one-on-one

confidential meeting with any small business owner or entrepreneur to discuss any topic. Appointments are required and usually last 30-45 minutes. Please contact Brooke Story, the Chamber’s Director of Business Development &

Newsletter

The Chamber’s Small Business Mentorship program sponsored by Charter Business has provided much needed assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Participants have received guidance on starting a new business, expanding an existing business, launching a new product, downsizing and dealing with a difficult

Support, at 663-4542 ext. 105 or via e-mail at brooke@ shelbychamber.org for availability on February 10.

Join the Chamber for “CoffeeNet” at Ground Up Coffee & Smoothies Located Inside Snider’s Pharmacy in Chelsea Be sure to mark your calendar for Wednesday, February 11 and join us at Ground Up Coffee & Smoothies Located Inside Snider’s Pharmacy, 15582 Highway 280 in Chelsea from 8:30AM until 9:30AM

for CoffeeNet! The morning meeting is designed for members to enjoy networking, coffee, and light refreshments -- all before heading to the office.

CoffeeNet events are a great way to make new

business contacts so bring plenty of business cards.

There is no cost to attend however reservations are requested by Monday, February 9 to assist in preparation.

Please contact the

Contact Us

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

2015 CoffeeNet Sponsor:

Chamber by phone at 6634542 or register online at www.shelbychamber.org.

1301 County Services Drive Pelham, Alabama 35124 Office: (205) 663-4542 • Fax: (205) 663-4524 info@shelbychamber.org www.shelbychamber.org February 2015 | 59 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

GSCCC Board of Directors (As of 11/30/14)

Officers Lisa McMahon Warren Averett, LLC (Chair) Paul Rogers NobleBank & Trust (Chair-elect) Bill Keller Regions Bank (Immediate Past Chair) John Browing Cahaba Valley Computer Services (Vice Chair, Business Development & Support)

Jim Purvis (2015) A. C. Legg, Inc. Tim Benefield (2016) Buffalo Rock Company Linda Cencula (2016) Alabama Telco Credit Union Steve Chapman (2016) Alabama Gas Corporation Kathy Copeland (2016) White Rock QuarriesVincent Hills Bruce Fryer (2016) Lhoist North America

Newsletter

April Weaver Shelby Baptist Medical Center (Vice Chair, Communications)

Dominic Buompastore (2017) Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel

Keith Brown Jefferson State Community College (Vice Chair, Community & Workforce Development)

Bill Connor (2017) America’s First Federal Credit Union

Gregg Maercker First Commercial Bank (Vice Chair, Finance & Administration) Joe Meads Sain Associates (Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs) Charlie Stevens Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. (Vice Chair, Membership & Marketing) Board of Directors Tim Bowen (2015) Alabama Power Company William Carroll (2015) Armstrong Relocation & Companies David Platt (2015) Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama

Chris Grace (2017) Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Katie McDowell (2017) Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Michael Smith (2017) The GREAT, The GOOD and The GONE Sam Tucker (2017) Charter Business Andrew McGee (*) Hampton Inn & Suites 280 at Eagle Point Jeff Brown (*) Brownstone Marketing Solutions Amanda Mundy (*) Cardiovascular Associates David Schlueter (*) Buck Creek Stained Glass Brent Stewart (*) Renasant Bank *Serving a one-year term in 2015.

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2015 Continual Sponsors (As of January 1, 2015) 280 Living A.C. Legg, Inc. America’s First Federal Credit Union Business Telephones, Inc. FastSigns First Commercial Bank Graham & Associates, CPA’s HealthSouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Jefferson State Community College Legacy Community Federal Credit Union M.J. Harris, LLC Shelby Baptist Medical Center Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. The UPS Store Caldwell Mill Rd/ Hoover The GREAT the GOOD and the GONE University of Montevallo

Ambassador of the Month Congratulations to Rob Gerchow for achieving Ambassador of the Month.

Rob Gerchow is the Mold/ Bio Key Accounts Manager for SERVPRO of Birmingham.

Rob has over 25 years of sales experience with companies such as Hartz Mountain Pet Supplies, Kraft Corporation, & Cook’s Pest Control. Working to build relationships, brand awareness, and education about SERVPRO and the restoration industry, Rob currently oversees Mold Remediation and Biohazard Response for SERVPRO of Birmingham. SERVPRO of Birmingham serves all of Shelby and Jefferson counties. They specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial 2015 Ambassador Program Sponsor:

properties after fire, smoke, or water damage. They also remediate mold and conduct biohazard cleanup.

SERVPRO’s staff is highly trained in property damage restoration - from initial ongoing training at SERVPRO Corporate headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to regular IICRC industry certifications.

Backed by a nationwide system of over 1,600 qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Birmingham.

SERVPRO of Birmingham also provides carpet, upholstery, and HVAC duct system cleaning. For more information, or to schedule services, please call 205-6646770 today.

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Join Us at the Inaugural Healthy Lifestyle Expo on February 5 The Chamber’s Health Services Work Group is hosting its first Healthy Lifestyles Expo! The 1/2 day event, sponsored by Shelby Baptist Medical Center, will be held from 8:30AM until noon on February 5 at the Alabaster YMCA, 117 Plaza Circle, Alabaster. The event is FREE and open to the public! There will be health screenings, nutrition and physical activity 2015 Healthy Lifestyle Expo Sponsor:

demonstrations, an on-site cooking demonstration and expo booths to visit that will be full of tips, techniques and more on making healthy lifestyle choices.

The expo is FREE! There will be an opportunity to enjoy lunch at a minimal cost.

If you are interested in having lunch that day or would like more details, contact Keyla Handley, Director, Community & Workforce Development at 663-4542, ext. 106.

Entrepreneur Roundtable II Formed Building on the success of an exciting new program started last July, the Chamber is pleased to announce a second Entrepreneur Roundtable was established in January.

The Chamber’s Entrepreneur Roundtable program-- sponsored by Business Telephones, Inc.-is part problem-solving, part information-gathering and contacts building.

Participating business owners from non-competing companies meet for a confidential, peer-to-peer session each month to gain valuable insights into others’ successes and achievements,

2015 Entrepreneur Roundtable Sponsor:

and learn how to avoid the pitfalls of their mistakes.

The Roundtable program is exclusive for the single individual responsible for the direction of the company and with the authority to make final decisions.

For additional information on the Chamber’s Entrepreneur Roundtable program - or for an application to join either Roundtable I or Roundtable II - please contact Brooke Story at 663-4542 ext 105.

Vicki Everett Named 2014 Ambassador of the Year Congratulations to Vicki Everett, Juice Plus+ Franchise Owner, for being named the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce 2014 Ambassador of the Year! Vicki has been an Ambassador with the Chamber for four years and loves promoting Shelby County, the great county she lives and works in daily!

She is a former Special Education teacher and administrator whose passion is educating and counseling children and adults in the role whole food nutrition plays in our health and how to make healthy lifestyle choices for better health. Juice Plus+ has been a daily part of Vicki’s life for more than 13 healthy years and she feels ethically and professionally responsible to share it with others. Juice Plus+ is a 22 year old global business, reaching 20+ countries, and is the most thoroughly researched brand name whole food nutritional product in the world with 23+ 2015 Ambassador Program Sponsor:

studies published in peer reviewed medical journals.

Juice Plus+ is 32 vine ripened vegetables, fruits, berries and 2 grains picked fresh from THE FARM to CAPSULE or SOFT CHEW. Or you can grow your own produce with our TOWER GARDEN by JUICE PLUS+, an aeroponic vertical gardening system for the patio or poolside ... serving TOWER to TABLE. Vicki is active in her community and throughout Shelby County with her church, professional organizations, Highland Lakes Garden Club President, and an Ambassador with the Greater Shelby County and South Shelby County Chambers of Commerce, giving back to the community with her time and talents.

For more information about Juice Plus+, call Vicki at 205-332-5255 or visit http:// vickieverett.juiceplus.com.

February 2015 | 61 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

Save the Date!

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

GSCC Events

Find more details of what you can expect about any event listed by visiting the Greater Shelby County Chamber’s website at: www.shelbychamber.org.

Register for events online at www.shelbychamber.org or the Chamber office 663-4542.

CANCELLATION POLICY REMINDER: If a reservation is made for a paying event and you are unable to attend, you will be charged for the event unless a cancellation request is made at least TWO business days prior to the event.

February 2015

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11:30AM - 1:00PM - Ambassadors Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham 4:00PM - 5:00PM - Small Business Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham 8:30AM - 12:00PM - Healthy Lifestyles Expo Sponsor: Shelby Baptist Medical Center Alabaster YMCA 117 Plaza Circle, Alabaster No cost.

Open to members & community.

8:00AM - 11:00AM - Small Business Mentorship Appointments Michael Smith, The GREAT, the GOOD, and The GONE Sponsored by: Charter Business Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham By appointment. Contact Brooke Story at 663-4542, ext.

105.

8:30AM - 9:30AM - Existing Business & Industry Work Group Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc., 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite 500, Birmingham 11:30AM - 1:00PM - Go & Grow Workshop “Using Media To Grow Your Business” Presented by Michael Smith, The GREAT, the GOOD, and The GONE Sponsor: Charter Business Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham Reservations requested by Monday, February 9 as lunch will be served.

Investment: Members $10, “Future” members $20.

8:30AM - 9:30AM - CoffeeNet Sponsor: Business Telephones, Inc. Ground Up Coffee & Smoothies located inside Snider’s Pharmacy 15582 Highway 280, Chelsea No cost. RSVP requested by Monday, January 9.

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8:00AM - 3:00PM - Keeping It Real Program Sponsors: Legacy Community Federal Credit Union & The UPS Store Caldwell Mill Rd/ Hoover Helena High School, 1310 Hillsboro Pkwy, Helena Volunteers needed. Contact Keyla Handley, 663-4542, ext. 106 8:30AM - 9:30AM - Health Services Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham 8:00AM - 10:00AM - Entrepreneur Rountable I

8:30AM - 9:30AM - Education Work Group Shelby County Instructional Services Center, 601 First Street South, Alabaster 8:15AM - 9:30AM - Board of Directors’ Meeting Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham 4:00PM - 6:00PM - 3rd Annual Industry Appreciation Event Inverness Country Club, #1 Country Club Drive, Birmingham By invitation only.

8:30AM - 10:30AM - Entrepreneur Roundtable II Membership Program - State of the County Sponsor: Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Doors open at 11:00AM. Program 11:30AM - 1:00PM. Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena 500 Amphitheater Rd., Pelham Reservations requested by noon, Monday, February 23.

Investment: Members $20, “Future” members $30.

8:30AM - 9:30AM - Governmental Affairs Work Group Sain Associates, Two Perimeter Park South, Ste 500 East, Birmingham 8:00AM - 3:00PM - Keeping It Real Program Sponsors: Legacy Community Federal Credit Union & The UPS Store Caldwell Mill Rd/ Hoover Shelby County High School, 101 Washington St, Columbiana Volunteers needed. Contact Keyla Handley, 663-4542, ext. 106

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The Hannah Home Shelby Auxiliary held its annual Christmas party at the home of Nancy Norris on Dec. 18.

1. Elise Hearn, Amy Reese, Dawn Stephens and Sarah Moseley 2. Janie Dollar, Tamara Moser and Andrea Hunter 3. Susan Fite and Nancy Norris 4. Faye Hayes, Nancy Norris, Ann Capps, Nita Yarbrough and Wanda Ehl 5. Denise Tassone and Barbara Brickner 6. Janie Dollar, Rita Wood, Lois Tipton and Mary Byrd 7. Liz Sherrell and Gwen Solomon 8. Hollis Traylor, Tricia Schencker and Tina Douglass

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2014 Chelsea Christmas Parade Hundreds of people lined the streets of Chelsea for the 15th annual Chelsea Christmas Parade on Dec. 20.

1. Ella Rene Crabtree, Kaylor Crumpton, Bryant Wisdom and Tucker Crabtree 2. Todd Rafferty with Alexis, Sydney, Olivia, Charlene and Jerry Robertson 3. Haley Duca and Maddie Thoma 4. Clare and Elon King 5. Andrew Long with Amy and Austin Brooks 6. Kole, Kyle, Rachel and Reese Washburn 7. Kaylor Crumpton with Stephanie and Bryant Wisdom 8. Alex, Robert and Sophie Francine Jones 9. Ben Debeljuh with Brody and Joanna Entrekin

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AWC Holiday Craft and Bake Sale

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The Alabama Wildlife Center hosted the annual Holiday Craft and Bake Sale fundraiser in Hoover’s Veterans Park on Dec. 13. The event featured handmade goods and a chance to meet some of Alabama’s native birds of prey.

1. Mary Lou Kevorkian and Mildred Allen 2. Libba West and Pam Allen 3. Travis Allen and Michael Dupre 4. Carl Burgamy and Doug Adair 5. Kristi and Sarah Herring

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Celebrate Washington’s Birthday and the 15th Anniversary of the American Village Monday, February 16

• Share birthday cake with George Washington at noon • Check our website for the full schedule of events: www.americanvillage.org

Gat openes a 10 t

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3 3 Greystone Ladies Club December meeting The Greystone Ladies Club held its annual Christmas party Dec. 10.

1. Therese Haselden, Tina Douglass, Susie Hammers, Hiltrud Hollibaugh, Janie Dollar, Barbara Brickner, Wilma Thompson and Jan Smith 2. Amy Huneidi, Roula Hakim, Ann Layne, Carole Marks, Hollis Traylor and Tulip Huneidi 3. Janie Dollar and Denise Tassone 4. Jenice Prather-Kinsey and Jan Smith 5. Janie and Dennis Dollar 6. Jeannie Johnson, HendrĂŠe Moore and LaRue Carter 7. Mechelle Wilder, Alicia Cuevas and Carolyn Haynes 8.Chase Coats and Shannon Patterson 9. Barbara Brickner, Hiltrud Hollibaugh, Patti Stahlhut and Leigh Anne Priest

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10. Theresa Hensley, Sue Nuby and Kathy Granger 11. Michelle Matlock, Alicia Cuevas and Danella Johnson 12. Alicia Cuevas and Carole Marks 13. Michelle Matlock, Alicia Cuevas and Danella Johnson

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Alabaster Christmas parade

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A rainy morning cleared in time for hundreds of Alabaster residents to enjoy the city’s annual Christmas parade down U.S. 31 on Dec. 6.

1. Brooke, Nia and Yolanda Maye 2. Alabaster City Council members from left, Stacy Rakestraw, Sophie Martin, Rick Walters, Mayor Marty Handlon, Russell Bedsole, Scott Brakefield and Brakefield’s son, Wynn 3. Graham and Savannah Ailsworth 4. Mary Ann Schilleci and Rebecca Davis 5. Phillip and Jamie Gurganus with Mason and Juston Gurganus 6. The Thompson High School Marching Southern Sounds visual ensemble 7. The Alabaster 105-pound football players 8. Jacob, Michelle and Cana Tatum

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First Ballantrae Ladies’ Christmas Tea

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The ladies of Pelham’s Ballantrae neighborhood hosted their first holiday get-together at the Ballantrae Golf Course Clubhouse on Dec. 11. Ladies enjoyed tea, shopping from a selection of items from LJ’s Boutique and each other’s company.

1. Kathy Southall, Patti Davies, Wanda Hurst, Tammy Cook and Pam Bourgoin 2. Lynda Raines, Terre Robinson and Zonia Waltman 3. Julia Bacon with Angie and Emilee Smith and Sofia Markovich 4. Lindsey McKinney and Betty Ferguson

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The Alabama Veterans Memorial Park’s Patriotic Tribute was held on Nov. 12 in Montevallo and included a Patriotic Ceremony in the Memorial Plaza, a display “Faces of the Price of Freedom” and a StepStone Ceremony.

1. Mark, Allison, Jordan and Corey Jackson 2. Tom Martin and Rob Sciacca 3. Color Guard and Boys Choir 4. Mark Rubino 5. Anne Bishop, Major General A.C. Roper and Brad Bishop 6. Jonnie Caddell, Pat Estock, Stephanie Woods and Kristin Bachnana Kiebase 7. Top, from left, Shelly Fagg and Rick Smith. Bottom, from left, Clay and Betty Smith 8. Michael Robinson and Cherylann Needham 9. Tim and Charles Marvin 70 | ShelbyLiving.com

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PPL gingerbread house decorating

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Families stopped by the Pelham Public Library on Dec. 8 to decorate gingerbread houses.

1. Natalie, Michelle and Allison Waits 2. Joanne Dunn with Parker and Addison Simms 3. David, Tricia and Paul Schmid 4. Austin, Katie and Elizabeth Cain

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Pelham hosts Christmas tree lighting

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Thousands attended Pelham’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena on Dec. 1.

1. Emory, Kathy, Ellis and Jason Yohn 2. Richard Diego, Rachel Hill and Jacara Purdie 3. Brooke Bradley and Laruyan Schilleci.

4. Paula and Jonathan Holly 5. Joel and Evelyn Price 6. Robert Plummer, Taylor Wooten, Jacob Colvert and Keaton Allen 7. Martiza Lopez, Jackie Diego and Courtney Cole 8. Melissa Arambula and Esmeralda Zamora

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RSVP Volunteer Recognition Brunch

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The Shelby County RSVP Volunteer Recognition Brunch and Award Ceremony was held Dec. 4.

1. RSVP Executive Coordinator Marvin Copes and Lt. Col. (Ret.) R. Glenn Nivens 2. Thelma Woodruff and District Attorney Jill Lee 3. Joyce Dixie and Reggie Holloway 4. John Jones and Ross Agner

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OPEN MON-FRI 7AM-6PM SAT 8AM-5PM • (888) 693-9020

HOME OF THE 30 MINUTE OIL CHANGE PLEDGE Expires 3/15/15

$10.00 OFF

ANY OIL CHANGE

Expires 3/15/15

10% OFF

ANY ACCESSORY OR OVER THE COUNTER SALE

Expires 3/15/15

$25.00 OFF ANY SERVICE OR REPAIR

Must spend over $50. Choose any service available in our dealership. This exclusive offer not valid for insurance work, warranty, over the counter sales, other offers or service specials. Must be redeemed at one visit.

Has no cash surrender value.

February 2015 | 73

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Aaron’s Staff Third Annual Gala

Aaron’s Staff Respite Ministries hosted the Third Annual Gala on Nov. 1. Pelham Police Officer and driving force behind Carly’s Law, Dustin Chandler, was a featured speaker at the event. Aaron’s Staff Respite Ministries offers respite care to children with special needs and their siblings across Shelby County.

1. Sarah, David and Kristi Samsch 2. Amy and Nathan Godfrey with Martha and Ken Sanders 3. Kathleen Kopp and Jack Evans holding Evan Kopp 4. Laura and Brad Hinds 5. Sherry and Ricky Allison 6. Amanda and Andy Reid with Wendy and Jake Hall 7. Fontrella and Gaddy Cole 8. Laura and Tim Bennett 74 | ShelbyLiving.com

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Helena Christmas parade Thousands lined Shelby County 261 for the city of Helena’s 44th annual Christmas parade on Dec. 6.

1. Melvin, Jennifer, Kennedy and Carter Brantley 2. Magali Hernandez with Jesus, Omar, Luis Eris and Jesus Sosa 3. Chris, Justin, April, Melissa, Greg, Sherry, Carson, Lizzie, Myla, Lincoln and Pearce Parker 4. Tom Waldrop and JoAnn Wakefield

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Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce C o m m u n i t y • C o m m e rc e • C o l l a b o r a t i o n

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Market Noel

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The Junior League held its annual Market Noel at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center Nov. 22.

1. Brenda and John Belcher 2. Mary Jo Gagliano and Giuliana Duncan 3. Marie Copeland, Leila Buehler and Linda Parish 4. Elena and Kathy Gagliano 5. Alex, Chrissy and Chloe Foushee 6. Morgan Sellers and Carolyn Smith 7. Teresa McCrillis and Robert Kline 8. Candy Wallace and Dawn Moraski 9. Leila and Jamie Visser with Hannah Whaley 10. Rachel Stamper and Tonya Fernambucq

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SHELBY SPOTTED

2

1

3

4

5

Unscripted book signing

Gretchen B. Photography in Helena held a book signing for Ken Boyd at Unscripted – A Fine Art Photography Showcase on Dec. 3.

6

8

7

1. Ralph Chester and Ken Boyd.

2. Gary Clark, Ken Boyd and Buddy Birdwell.

3. Paul Arant and Temperance Smiley.

4. Ken Boyd and Robby Tindal.

5. Ken Boyd and DJ Boyd.

6. Barry Graham, Ken Boyd and Laura Brookhart.

7. Jeff Newman and Mike McGary.

8. Julie Chester, Luke Thornton and Ralph Chester.

9. Jeff Newman and Butch Oglesby.

9 February 2015 | 77

CLASSIFIEDS

Marketplace Shelby Living • 205.669.3131

ACCEPTANCE LOAN COMPANY Personal Loans! Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans! Come by Acceptance Loan and apply for a loan today.

2834 H Pelham Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-5821 Drivers, CDL-A: Home EVERY Weekend!

ALL Loaded/Empty Miles Paid!

Dedicated Southeast!

Or Walk Away Lease, No Money Down.

1-855-971-8522 Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record.

800-338-2717 JOBS IN ALABAMA!!

AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment, screening & training services. Visit www.aidt.edu/jobs for latest jobs & training!

AL PICK N’ TRADE 3985 Hwy 25 NEW VENDOR PROMOTION! First 3 months 1/2 off!!!

205-672-2022 (formerly Dixieland) Alacare Home Health & Hospice Now Hiring! RNs Registered Nurses (RNs) needed for the Clanton area.

Excellent pay and benefits available with Alabama’s largest and oldest privatelyowned home health agency.

EOE Apply at www.alacare.com

78 | ShelbyLiving.com

Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need! Flexible hours and Benefits available.

Call for more information.

(205)824-0224 www.alwaysthereinc.com $99 New Patient Special for the month of February at Andrews Family Dental in Columbiana 205-669-9900.

Attic Antiques • Antiques • Vintage • Industrial Tues - Sat, 10:00 - 4:30 5620 Cahaba Valley Road 205-991-6887 Clanton Area!!

Automation Personnel Services Responsibilities Include: Inspection of automotive parts • Load and unload parts • Detail oriented • Able to lift 50 lbs regularly.

Requirements: HS Diploma or GED. Applications accepted Tu-Th, 8am-11am. Interested Candidates may walk into our office to apply. Inside JCI. 2541 7th St S, Clanton, AL 35045.

(205)280-0002, EOE B & M Shelby Pickers Indoor/ Outdoor Flea Market and Kountry Store is NOW OPEN. Mon/Tue/Thu 12-5pm, Fri/Sat 8am-5pm.

4814 Hwy. 47, Shelby 205-461-8725 BAMA Concrete Finishing.

Driveways, Patios, Floors, Driveway Repair, Sidewalks, Concrete Walls, and Stamping.

Call Jeremy. Free Est. 205-901-4112 BAMA CONCRETE PRODUCTS 205-664-3500

ShelbyLiving.com

1 (one) brand new Queen Mattress and Box Spring for $195.00. Call 334­-655­ -1946 for more info (IN MONTGOMERY) Tired of Being Over Worked and Underpaid? Earn What You Are Worth! $1500 bonus based on exp. Sales or cust service experience required.

EOE Baugh Ford. We make it simple. Apply in person: Baugh Ford. 1670 7th St N, Clanton Bartens Media. Let us help you find Drivers.

618-965-9505 Alexti Homecare New To Your Area. 24 Hour Service. Free Consultations.

Companionship. Recreation.

Light House Keeping.

Meal Preparation. Bathing/ Showering. Dressing and Grooming. Escort to appointments or shopping.

Medication Management (205)854-3232 alextihomecare.org Bibb Medical Center Nursing Home.

Openings: CNA & LPN All shifts: PT & FT positions available. Contact Human Resources at : bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter.com Apply On-line at bibbmedicalcenter.com Bibb Medical Center in Centreville, AL offers a new, independent living facility for seniors. Congregate Housing @ Cahaba Trace is a great solution for seniors who want to remain independent but who take comfort in knowing that assistance is readily available. We offer an allinclusive price with numerous amenities. Congregate Housing is private pay and seniors must be at least 62

years of age and capable of living independently. For more information, please call Carrie Williams at 205.926.3286.

CDL Skills And Test Training, LLC. Day & Evening Classes.

Hoover/Pelham Area.

205-253-5960

Toyota, Lexus, Scion.

Complete Service.

Now servicing most Japanese models. Towing. Detailing.

205-668-0105 billystoyotaparts.com

2-5 Years Flatbed Lumber Experience. Home Every Night. Apply in Person.

Cedar Creek Wholesale, 901 2nd Court West, Birmingham, AL 35204 205-458-7900 Full Benefits.

Birmingham Country Club Now Hiring. We accept applications online ccbham. org and in person,Tu-Fri, 9am-4pm. We are a drug free workplace. EOE Journeymen Electricians, $24 per hour plus insurance.

Helpers $9.60 to $19.20 per hour depending on experience.

Greater Birmingham area.

Call 205-849-5522 for details.

BJ’s CHIMNEY SERVICE LLC Chimney Caps Dampers* Water Proofing Chimney Sweeping Masonry Repairs 205-995-8656 Piano Tuning / Repair, Refinishing, Moving & Storage Trained by The School for the Blind.

Buddy Gray Music.

205-822-0482 or 800-593-2462 Calera Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Our New Executive Director Jennifer Hand 206-668-3023 calerachamber.org Lots of vintage jewelry at discount prices!

Hundreds of rings: gold, white gold, 14K, 10K. We buy scrap gold. Buy/Sell guns, coins, electronics, & more!

Cash World Pawn 5354 Hwy 280 205-995-1018

SERVICE Tech w/ HVAC exp. Energetic, outgoing, hardworking, career oriented person to be part of team.

Min 3 yrs exp. w/ EPA cert.

Negotiable Salary between $15 to $30 hrly.

Call 205-755-2209 or apply at 816 7th Street. N., Clanton Part-time Pre-schoolWorker, 2-6 PM $8/hour - 5 days/week.

Great for college students!

Pelham, AL. 205-620-1616 Class A CDL Drivers needed for Birmingham Coca-Cola and Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Companies. Driving experience is required.

Apply in person at: 4600 East Lake Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35217 Columbiana Health and Rehabilitation, LLC CNA Class -Starting SOON !!!!

Apply in person: 22969 Hwy 25.

Columbiana, AL 35051 FIREWOOD-OAK or HICKORY Pickup - only 5 cents per pound. Commercial and Residential delivery also available.

Columbiana Wood Products 21421 Hwy 25 Columbiana (205) 671-5202

Comfort Keepers Now hiring quality Home Health Care Aids. Personal care experience required.

Must be bondable with clear background. beacomfortkeeper.com (205)981-1800 ATTN WAITRESS, BARTENDERS & ENTERTAINERS Established local Company needs 12 people w/ great personalities. Hourly + No Nights, No Travel, Paid Weekly, Benefits Avail.

Call 205-969-1797 or 800-510-2287 Experienced Environmental Consultant in Birmingham with experience in stack testing. Must be experienced with air emissions, QSTI cert 1-4, & QI cert EPA methods 1-30. Apply at 2501 5th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35233 or www.cyppressemployment. com.

Cypress Employment Services, LLC Dawson Landscape Group. Custom Outdoor lighting, Firepits, irrigation, weed control packages. dawsonlandscapegroup.com.

205-532-9793 TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing.

800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com Dirtworks & Bobcat Landscaping, sprinkler systems, retaining walls, drainage work, stone patio.

Call 205-620-1818 for more information Dunn Building Company is looking for a Shop Assistant for their Fabrication Shop in Calera. The candidate must be a certified welder and be able to read blueprints. To apply visit: dunnbuildingcompany. com and download an application from the Careers section. They can be faxed or emailed to Brett Clark at 205-510-0301 or bclark@dunnbuildingcompany. com EOE M/F/Vet/Disabled

52 Beers on Tap! Cowboys 280, 5492 US Highway 280 E., 205-981-0994.

Dunn Building Company has Immediate Openings for projects in Trussville and Childersburg. Form carpenters, earth moving equipment operators, metal sheeters, field engineers, laborers & superintendents. Min. 1 year exp. and ability to pass drug test. To apply visit: dunnbuildingcompany.com.

NO PHONE CALLS!!! EOE LAY LAKE! Beautiful 4BR/2BA on level lot.

Enclosed boathouse & pier.

Breathtaking sunsets & views of Lay Lake. $279,900 Ellis Properties 205-669-1863 Emily’s Heirloom Pound Cakes. Fantastic Fundraiser Opportunity. A delicious way for your group to raise money. Contact April McClung 934-7392; aprilmcclung67@ gmail.com; www. emilysheirloompoundcakes. com ESD School, LLC. CDL Instructors needed. Bessemer & Decatur locations. Min. 5 yr. exp. 866-432-0430.

ESDschool.com. $3000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area. Must have class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience. Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.

Evergreen Transport, LLC has an immediate opening in the Maintenance Department at its Calera Terminal for a Lead Technician. The job will require repairing diesel trucks and directing other mechanics with repair orders. If interested, please call Shane Jones @ 205-668-3316 or Chuck Talbot @ 800-525-5144.

The Home Depot Now Hiring General Warehouse Associates Competitive Pay & Benefits.

Full & Part-time Shifts. Apply at: work4homedepot.com/scr1 apply to: RDC 5086 McCalla, AL FBC Pelham School of Fine Arts NOW REGISTERING for lessons in piano and voice. All ages. Call 205.664.2466 for more information.

Queen Pillow Top Mattress Set New - Still in plastic. $200 205.789.8611. Can Deliver.

Wrap Team Leader/OutPatient Therapist. Supervise Wrap team. Coordinate weekly staffing with Shelby DHR. Provide individual/family counseling. LGSW/LCSW/ ALC/LPC with supervisory experience. Fax 205-510-2626 or email hrm@gway.org.

I believe I am defined by the care I give. Home healthcare allows you to see one patient at a time. When you become a part of home healthcare, you become a part of your patients’ lives. Now Hiring Registered Nurses for Centreville/Clanton Contact Shea Parker 1.866.GENTIVA or 770-372-1109 shea.parker@gentiva.com Visit gentiva.com/careers AA/EOE/M/F/D/V encouraged to apply.

Georgia-Pacific in Thorsby is hiring Production Workers & Process Techs for Press Dept.

Great benefits & pay. E.O.E. Apply at gp.com/careers.

INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIAN w/ Mechanical skills.

Competitive Benefits. Located in Calera. Call 205-795-7294 Recipes. Products. Company Store. Tours. So much more!

GoldenFlake.com ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnlineAuctions.com 205-326-0833 Granger, Thagard & Assoc.

Jack F. Granger #873

Great Clips Hiring Stylists Chelsea 205-966-7254 Production Jobs Grede in Columbiana seeks quality people to work multiple shifts. Willing to train. Submit resumes in person or via fax at 669-5770.

The Greenbush Logistics, Inc. terminal in Tuscumbia, AL, is hiring flat bed drivers and offering great benefits.

We feel like the best drivers in the industry deserve the best working conditions and benefits available. Competetive pay. Full benefits. Most weekend & holidays off. Tarp pay. Uniform program. Safety, fuel & idle bonus. Sign-on bonus.

OPPORTUNITY TO EARN OVER $1,000 PER WEEK. Call toll free at 1-866-338-7213 for more information or apply online at glijobs.com. Must have 2 years verifiable Class A experience and pass DOT physical. recent flatbed experience a plus.

RECEPTIONIST: #1 TAX OFFICE IN CHELSEA SEEKING RECEPTIONIST. TEMP FT OR PT AVAILABLE. SEND RESUME TO TAXPROCHELSEA@YAHOO. COM DRIVERS Hanna Truck Lines is seeking 20 Professional Flatbed Drivers.

50 cpm. No Surprises: Starting Pay (all Miles): 48 cpm, 49 cpm @ 6 mo, 50 cpm @ 1 yr. 100% Outbounds loads Pre-loaded & Tarped. 75% Inbound No Tarp.

Late Model Peterbilt Trucks. Air Ride Trailers. Home weekends.

Low cost BCBS Health & Dental Ins. Matching 401K. Qualifications: 18 Mo Class A CDL driving exp w/ 6 mo flatbed; Applicants must meet all D.O.T. req. Contact recruiting @ 1-800-634-7315 or come by HTL office @ 1700 Boone Blvd, Northport. EOE Others buy Gold, We buy Jewelry!

205-251-3381 Downtown Birmingham www.levysfinejewelry.com

HARDEE’S Now Hiring Store & Asst Managers, & Shift Leaders. Email resume to hardees2007@bellsouth.net or apply in person on Valleydale Rd. Healtcare Certification.

Visit Healthcareergroup.com or call 800-897-1773 for more info. No college required.

HELENA VETERINARY CLINIC Full Svc Vet Clinic Grooming by Apptmt M-F facebook.com/HelenaVetClinic 205-621-2021 WE HAVE FREIGHT!!!

James R. Smith Trucking of Cullman, AL is currently seeking drivers and Owner -Operators. Benefits include daily settlements; direct Deposit or express cash; Transflo; 100% of fuel surcharge, stop & drop pay; discounts on fuel, cell Phones & tires; pre-pass furnished; excellent home/family time and a payroll deducted truck purchase plan. Contact Greg Quick at 256.338.5168 or 800.633.3252 NEEDED NOW!! King’s Home has openings for Youth Care Workers (FT & PT) different shifts. Must be 23+ yo. Clear driving record, clear criminal background, HS diploma/ GED req’d. Please email lynn@kingshome.com or fax to 205-678-7372.

Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com 2010 - 32X62 Secluded, private property near Chelsea. 3 BR 2 BA. Many Features! 205-664-2412 Lil Angels Learning Center is now accepting enrollment for ages 3 wks to 12yrs!

200 Ridge Drive, Pelham 663-1852 NEED A JOB? Lyons HR has jobs. Various positions available. Apply at: 490 Wildwood Circle N., Ste. 150 Birmingham, AL 35209

February 2015 | 79

KATS Grocery Delivery 205-923-6110 iKareihelp@gmail.com FT Drivers Needed.

Must be willing to work days, nights or weekends. Wages begin at $10/hr. www.MacsDelivers.com 866-217-1928 or email amy@macsdelivers.com MACS Courier Service House Cleaners Wanted 25-35 Hrs a week no nights or wknds Car, D.L & insurance req Located in Pelham Call for appt 358-1800 www.maidpro.com/birmingham

Immediate Opening for PT/ FT Employee for Medical Office in Alabaster. Applicant must be willing to learn new skills and live in vicinity. Email resume to personal4@charter.net or fax to 205-664-9689.

Noble LLC of Scottsboro, AL is looking for company drivers & owner/ops – both flatbed & van. We have paid vacation, holiday bonus pay, safety bonus, & BC/BS is available. We have a family atmosphere with newer equipment. We like to have 2 years of experience & acceptable safety record - If less, call us. noblellctrucking.com Call 256-574-0066

Christian Mission Agency headquartered in Wilsonville seeking Assistant Administrator.

Experience: excellent organizer proficient in Excel & Quickbooks. Annual salary $22-25K. Send resume: info@makewaypartners.org

Production Team Members in Vance, AL $14.50 per hour. HS Diploma or GED, 2 yr Manufacturing exp.

Must be 18+, pass background check, 2 yr AL resident. http://naonsite.com/Job

New Urgent Care, MedCenter Hoover, is hiring LPN, Lab Tech, Patient Care Coord. Great Benefits. Fax Resume to 205-822-1158.

Manufacturing/Assembly positions available in Calera area. Full time hours, all shifts available. Call today 205-267-3910

Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-389-4530. For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657

PAINT ANY ROOM FOR ONLY $50 Walls, only 1 coat.

Wallpaper removing, platerings and drywall repairs.

Call 380-2370.

Morrison Healthcare Food Service at Shelby Baptist Hospital Now accepting applications for future openings.

Must pass drug/nicotine/ background check. Apply online at www.compassgroupcareers.com Nate’s Pit Stop Service Special: $10 OFF of $100 or more. Most Vehicles.

See website for details. Not valid with other offers.

644-9393 www.natespitstop.com NatrualNailz by Tara Specialize in natural nail care.

10% OFF for first time client when you mention this ad!

624 Montgomery Hwy, Ste 9 Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 745-6591 • Schedulicity.com

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Exterior Painting and Drywall. Make your house look new again. Over 20 years experience, quality and craftsmanship. Satisfaction Guaranteed Call 205.966.6230 Rock Products. Specializing in Dolomotic Lime, Dolomitic filler, Dolomotic dust and aggregates. Sylacauga, AL 35151. Hours Mon-Fri, 7-4:30.

Some Saturdays. (256)249-9545 ateammining.com Salvation Army Adult Rehab Center is in need for donations of Furniture, Clothing, Electronics, Cars, Boats, etc.

We will be glad to pick up or you may drop off in the rear of our store locations. SAVE A LIFE TODAY AND DONATE YOUR GENTLY USED ITEMS. CALL US AT 205-252-8151

Const Foreman Trainee Labor Intensive position at tobacco free company. Must pass DOT physical, drug & background check. Clean driving & workrecord, reliable transportation & telephone required. Call 205-668-2626 SERVERS NEEDED Premier golf club in North Shelby County seeking motivated individuals for full and part time server positions.

Must be available to work some nights and weekends. $10 - 12 per hour. Immediate openings.

Interested candidates please reply to shoal@bellsouth.net.

Skintrenzixs School.

Birmingham School that specializes in esthetics only is NOW ENROLLING. Payment plans available. Call 205-979-5665. skintrenzixs.com Smith Roofing Metal Roof Specialists. All roofs & repairs.

No job too small. 35 years exp.

All work guaranteed.

256-391-7144, 205-777-8069 PLUMBERS NEEDED Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com Electricians Needed Birmingham & Tuscaloosa Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com Southland Intl Trucks SALES POSITIONS SERVICE POSITIONS Montgomery & Bham Excellent benefits Resumes: employment @southlandtrucks.com Or F: 205-380-9732 TOMMY BUYS HOUSES 205-283-3272 IMMEDIATE POSITIONS!!!!!

Need 5 motivated workers to replace 5 lazy ones! Loaders, assistant manager, customer service positions, sales reps.

Need valid DL. No experience neccesary. Long hours, but very competitive pay. Call Drew (205)490-1003 or (404)723-1322

CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham Call Stephen (205) 663-2822 Office Space for Rent Cahaba Valley Road near Hwy 280. Professional upscale building. Move in ready.

Call: 205-967-9595 ask for John Steel Building. Allocated Bargains. 40x60 on up. We do deals. gosteelbuildings.com Source# 18X 251-241-4250 Need extra money? We need weekend merchandisers! Apply at: supremebeverage.com Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, a local based company in Pelham. Must be willing to learn & work hard. Go to: supremeelectric-al.com. Print empl app under Contact Us and mail to: Supreme Electric, 231 Commerce Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-453-9327.

Call the Cleaning Lady!

General Residential and Commercial Cleaning personalized for your special home or office! Call Kelly for a break! 205-260-2769 Are you happy with your Child’s Grades?

FREE ASSESSMENT! Guaranteed Results!

The Tutoring Center 205-987-9577 www.hoover.tutoringcenter.com Stable Hand Position.

P/T, No. Shelby Cty. To apply, call 205-991-9720 or 205-531-1355 Three Amigos Restaurant in Alabaster. Join us for Happy Hour Thrs from 5-9:30. All Beer $2 and Sat 12oz Margarita on ice $2.99. 844 Hwy 31 S. Next to Chevron 205-406-5393 EFP, INC NOW HIRING Local Haul Truck Drivers 3 yrs exp & CDL required. Full time/Part time/Weekends.

For application or more info call Nicole Johns 334-687-6000 X 18

ELECTRICIAN Commercial Service: Automatic Doors, pd. hol./vac.

APPLY @UNIVERSAL DOOR 205 967 3414.

Doorjob14@gmail.com The UPS Store.

703 Logan Road, Across from High School. 205-755-6400.

Mention our ad & get: 25% OFF Shredding; 29¢ Color Copies; 5¢ Black & White MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land.

Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit.

3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.

1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.com Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website www.capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

Villa Maria Apartments Affordable Housing for Ages 62 & above or Mobility Impaired • Income Based Rent • Gated Community 205-836-7839 205-833-0532 Call today for an application and/or appt.

TANK & DUMP DRIVERS. Walpole is looking for local and regional class A company CDL drivers with a minimum of two years driving experience and a clean driving record. Our package includes: 401k, paid training, safety bonuses, paid vacations, professional uniforms, uniform cleaning service, boot program & more!

Walpole EOE/DFWP Call Valerie at (800) 749-5552 or apply online www.walpoleinc.com.

Wayne J. Griffin Electric, Inc. is seeking Electrical Apprentices & Electricians in Tuscaloosa.

Great Benefits! Call 800-4210151 X5339 or e-mail dshea@wjgei.com. Women, minorities, veterans and applicants with disabilities encouraged to apply.

Whiteline Express Ltd. is looking for OTR drivers out of Alabama. Apply online at www.whiteline-express.com

OUT & ABOUT Columbiana Cowboy Day

Mardi Gras Bash

Frozen Tide

Feb. 1

Performances will be held Jan. Shelby County 197th Birthday 30-31 at 8 p.m., Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. and Feb. 5-7 at 8 p.m. The South Party You are cordially invited to a City Theater is located at 3612 Birthday Celebration in honor Highway 26, Columbiana. Visit of the 197th Birthday of The Southcitytheatre.com.

Founding of Shelby County Alabama. The Celebration will Feb. 7 be held on Feb. 1 beginning at Riverchase Loves Artists 2 p.m. “Becoming Alabama” Riverchase Women’s will host celebration emphasis will be its annual art show, “Riverchase Civil War. The event will be Loves Artists,” on Feb. 7 from 10 held at the Shelby County a.m.-4 p.m. Local and regional Museum and Archives, 1854 Old artists will exhibit and sell their Courthouse Circle, Columbiana. works indoors at Riverchase For more information, visit Country Club in Hoover. Artists will display a variety of mediums Schssociety.org. including photography, paintings, jewelry, pottery, Feb. 5 glass, wood, textiles and more.

SSCC Luncheon The South Shelby Chamber of Admission is free and open to Commerce holds its monthly the public. A golf cart shuttle luncheon the first Thursday will transport patrons from the of the month at 11:30 a.m. at parking lot to the clubhouse.

Columbiana United Methodist Food and drinks will be Church, 200 North Main Street, available. For more information, visit Riverchaselovesartists.com Columbiana. or call Riverchase Country Club at 988-4140.

Feb. 5-7 Cat on a Hot Tin Roof The South City Theater will present several performances of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” in late January and early February.

“Cat On a Hot Tin Roof” is the powerful, highly charged, moving story of a neurotic, dysfunctional Southern family with its rivalries, tensions, and avarice. It is also arguably one of Tennessee Williams best plays—and his personal favorite. Cliff Keen will direct.

Mardi Gras Bash The Shelby County Arts Council will host a Mardi Gras Bash featuring 2Blu and the Lucky Stiffs on Feb. 7 at 8 p.m. Enjoy the music and a cold beverage, all for one ticket price of $20.

Scott Owen, noted expressionist painter, will paint live as the band plays, and his work will be auctioned off at the end of the show. The event is sponsored by Spark Cleaning. Tickets include

a beverage reception hosted by Night Honoree, and Mr. and Ms. Lewis Lakes Vineyards. Doors University of Montevallo. open at 7 p.m. Dress up Mardi Feb. 14 Gras style or come as you are.

College Night Feb. 6-8 The University of Montevallo’s Frozen Tide College Night brings students The Frozen Tide, the University together from across campus of Alabama’s hockey team, and across disciplines to will play several matches at participate in a unique theatrical the Pelham Ice Arena, 500 and athletic competition that has Amphitheater Road, in January. no rival, and alumni return year The Tide will compete in the after year to support their “side” SECHC Tournament Feb. 6-8.

– either Purple or Gold. While games of basketball, soccer and Feb. 11-14 volleyball contribute to the point UM Homecoming total, the musical shows are Homecoming at the University the focal point of Homecoming of Montevallo is a festive weekend. Written and produced week of things to see and do. entirely by students “from the Homecoming is that exciting ground up,” College Night time in February for alumni shows are original in every from near and far to “come dimension and are judged by home” to UM (or for some, professionals on a number of Alabama College), to see former criteria. Bragging rights are won classmates and renew old or lost for the remainder of the friendships.. year.

The Saturday of Homecoming In 2000, College Night was offers a packed schedule full named a “Local Legacy” by the of activity for all, including Library of Congress and has an registration in Reynolds Hall, exhibit there in the American departmental open houses, Folklife Center. the annual alumni luncheon, reunions for class years and Gabriel Tajeu performance special groups, and the Purple- Haven’t made Valentine’s Day Gold basketball game. The final plans yet? Birmingham’s Gabriel performance and judging of the Tajeu returns with special guest Gold and Purple productions Chelsey Whild. Get carried away takes place Saturday night. Also with Tajeu’s soulful tunes and recognized during Homecoming Whild’s sweet indie pop beats. are the University’s Distinguished This is the perfect date night Alumnus and other alumni opportunity. Your ticket includes award recipients, the College a beverage reception by Lewis February 2015 | 81

Lakes Vineyards and chocolate desserts. The performance will be Feb. 14 at 8 p.m., and doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20.

Feb. 15

Dessertisements Dessertisements, a fundraiser for the Alabama Youth Ballet sponsored by the Alabama Youth Ballet Guild, will be held Feb. 15 at Grebel Dance studios, 102 Commerce Parkway, Pelham. The event will include a silent and live auction, wine and desserts and an in-studio performance. Visit Grebeldance.com for more information.

Feb. 18

Montevallo Chamber luncheon The Montevallo Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon Feb. 18 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Parnell Library, 277 Park Drive, Montevallo.

Feb. 21

Columbiana Cowboy Day Columbiana Cowboy Day is Feb. 21 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. rain or shine. Come for this free event featuring live music, vendors, chili cook off, roping demonstrations, blacksmiths, farriers, Wild West shootout at noon and a parade.

Feb. 22

Audobon Teaches Nature The latest class in the Audobon Teaches Nature Series will be “Identifying Brids of Prey: Tips, Tools and a Bird or Two!” We are fascinated by birds of prey: they have keen eyesight, sharp talons and are adept hunters of both birds and animals, and, fortunately for us, Alabama is home to several species.

During this program, featuring live birds from the Alabama Wildlife Center and the Coosa River Science School, you will learn tips on how to identify buteos, falcons, kites, accipiters and owls. Bring your children & camera to capture the 82 | ShelbyLiving.com

moment! The program will be held Sunday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. at the Alabama Wildlife Center.

Becky Collier, Greg Harber and Scottie Jackson will be the guest speakers.

Feb. 28

Living Legends of Jazz The Living Legends of Jazz and Blues featuring Ray Reach, Cleve Eaton and friends will be held Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. The cost is $20 per ticket. Doors Open at 7 p.m. Student tickets are $10 (a limited amount of student tickets are available). Reach is the director of education at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

Eaton is a famous jazz bassist and has played with Count Basie.

Greystone tennis tournament The Greystone Spring Novice Alabama Level 5 Tournament will be Feb. 28 at Greystone Country Club in Hoover.

Entry to this tournament is open to all USTA members.

Players are selected manually by the tournament director after the close of registration.

Visit Tennislink.usta.com for registration requirements.

Arbor Day Visit the city of Montevallo to celebrate Arbor Day on Feb. 28.

Tree seedlings will be available for adoption, along with door prizes and information booths.

The event will be held from 9 a.m.-noon in the Orr Park Recreational Building.

Shelby County Rodeo Shelby County Cattleman’s 28th Annual Rodeo is at the Shelby County Exhibition Center, 86 Argo Road (Kelley Lane), Columbiana, on Feb. 28.

Shelby Living is happy to feature community events in its monthly calendar. The event must take place in Shelby County or be sponsored by a Shelby Countybased group. Email details to Katie.mcdowell@shelbyliving. com. l