Shelby Living, September/October 2019

SUGAR BRITCHES COOKIE SHOP • MEET MISS SHELBY COUNTY • A HOMELESS MINISTRY’S BAGS OF HOPE

THE BROTHERS BEHIND

SHEL-CLAIR FARM KICKBOXING AT THE GARAGE

mindful MAKER REFLECTIVE ART BY DANIELLE TICKELL

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 ShelbyLiving.com Volume 10 | Issue 5 $4.95

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STILL PROVIDING THE BEST OF THE BEST Heritage Preschool of Pelham is sporting a new name but providing the same award-winning, high-quality care parents have trusted for years. Set the stage for your child’s success by enrolling at Heritage Preschool to experience the best in childcare and early childhood education. Call us today to schedule a tour or learn more at heritagepreschool.com

Give your heart a good life.

Check it out.

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON HEART Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib, is a type of irregular heartbeat.

Why is it important? A person with AFib is five times more likely than a person without AFib to have a stroke. Risk factors include family history, heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, chronic conditions such as thyroid issues and sleep apnea.

Our team of experienced cardiac specialists can evaluate you for AFib and help you understand treatment options.

So call us at 205-510-5000, or visit online at cvapc.com.

We’ve got the beat on your heart.

presents

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Lindsey Allison

Shelby County Commission District 7

Lathan Associates Architects A.C. Legg, Inc.

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We’re doing our small part to give the Cahaba Lily its day in the sun.

Meet Hyumenocallis coronaira, commonly known as the Cahaba lily.

Indigenous to the Cahaba River-one of the most biologically diverse waterways in the nation - its fragrant flowers first open at night, inviting pollination by the nocturnal sphinx moth. Each flower blooms and lasts for a single day before wilting.

Nearby, our North Shelby Wastewater Treatment Plant does its own small part in making the Cahaba so rich in diversity.

The water we return to the Cahaba is actually purer than the river water itself. And our recent $9 million upgrade to reduce the amount of phosphorous in the Cahaba helps cut down on deadly algal blooms that threaten many species.

At SouthWest Water Company, we also sponsor and volunteer with Adopt-A-Stream, cleaning up debris of all kinds that threatens the river’s most fragile ecosystems. Because we want the Cahaba lily, and the river, to have many more sunny days ahead.

To learn more, visit CleanerCahaba.info

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FEATURES

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IN THEIR BLOOD The Bearden brothers are fourth-generation farmers in Shelby County.

DELIVERING HOPE LaKesha Williamson decided to put her Christian faith into action through a new outreach ministry.

4 September/October 2019

PHOTO BY DAWN HARRISON

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PHOTO BY BRENDON PINOLA

ARTS & CULTURE

17 Mind on Art: Danielle Tickell’s Drawings and Paintings 22 Immersive Installation: Doug Baulos’s Roots, Branch, and Star

SCHOOL & SPORTS

23 The Garage: Where Fighters Train and Friends Meet 30 Five Questions For: Oak Mountain Quarterback Evan Smith

FOOD & DRINK

31 Cute Cookies: The Story Behind Sugar Britches Cookie Shop 38 Five Questions For: Full Moon Bar-B-Que’s Maluff Brothers

HOME & STYLE

39 Sleek and Simple: The Robinsons’ Chic and Modern Cabin

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 Contributors 7 From the Editor 8 ShelbyLiving.com 9 #ShelbyLivingMagazine 10 The Question 11 The Guide 16 The Simple Life

SL 65 Business Connections 73 Out & About 86 Marketplace

88 Why I Love Shelby County

SShelbyLiving.com helbyLiving.com

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CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL

Graham Brooks Stephen Dawkins Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Wilson Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino

CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Finnegan Dawn Harrison Rebekah Martin Kevin McKee Brendon Pinola Jeremy Raines Emily Reed Anne Riley Lindsay Schluntz Neal Wagner

DESIGN

Jamie Dawkins Kate Sullivan Green Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Kristy Brown Kari George Caroline Hairston Rachel Henderson Daniel Holmes Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla Jordan Price Viridiana Romero Briana Sanders Jessica Steelman Kerrie Thompson

ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Katie McDowell Stacey Meadows Tim Prince

Jeremy Raines, Photographer Jeremy grew up in the small community of Cottonwood, just south of Dothan. He lived in the Wiregrass region his entire life before moving to Shelby County in December 2017. He lives with his wife, Madison, and their spoiled Maltipoo puppy, Zoey, in Helena. Jeremy freelances as a photographer with Shelby Living and a photographer and sports writer for the Shelby County Reporter. Jeremy is a multi-program coordinator for the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging in Alabaster.

Emily Reed, Writer Emily Reed is a native of Birmingham, where she grew up in Crestwood.

She is currently a freelance writer out of Shelby County, where she lives with her husband, Martin, and their children, Tobias and Lucy. She previously worked as a full-time newspaper reporter for publications in both Wyoming and Alabama. Now a full-time stay-at-home mom, she writes in her spare time and enjoys exploring topics including art, food and parenting.

Anne Riley, Writer Anne Riley lives in north Shelby County with her husband, Rob, and their three daughters, Maggie, Jenna and Kellan. Anne is the Content Team Director at Uptick Marketing by day, morphing into a freelance writer and editor after the kids go to bed. She is the author of two young adult novels (Shadows of the Hidden and Pull) and one children’s picture book (Voyage to the Star Kingdom), and her freelance writing has appeared in Fresh Style magazine, Shelby Living, Hoover’s Magazine, and multiple online outlets.

Lindsay Schluntz, Writer A Nebraska native now living in the Birmingham area, Lindsay Schluntz is a creative copywriter with a heart for people and a zeal for words! When she isn’t spending time with friends, traveling to the Cornhusker state to enjoy her family or serving at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, she enjoys writing B2B marketing blogs, ghostwriting books and providing localized content for area magazines.

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

Shelby Living Magazine 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 $16.30 for one year by visiting ShelbyLiving.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@ShelbyLiving.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

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FROM THE EDITOR

N ON THE COVER

Danielle Tickell

New beginnings are happening everywhere, it seems. A new school year just started for Shelby County students, football season is here and we just might feel the first hints of fall sometime soon. Two years ago this month, we at Shelby Living were unveiling the first issue produced with the new design template we transitioned to prior to launching Shelby Living’s three new sister publications, Mountain Brook Magazine, Homewood Life and Vestavia Hills Magazine. The redesign was a new beginning in the life of Shelby Living since its launch in 2010. Every issue we publish is a new set of stories full of inspiration, creativity, compassion and so many other qualities we can treasure in those we meet.

As we worked on this issue, we found a different set of new beginnings for people—starting a small business, reopening a business following a fire, launching an outreach ministry, starting a new role in the art world, to name a few. Mandy Phillips told us what prompted her to start a cookie business, Sugar Britches Cookie Shop, from her home.

Brothers Joe and David Maluff shared their approach to renovating the 280 location of Full Moon Bar-B-Que after a fire damaged the building in 2018. LaKesha Williamson told us about the mission trip to California that prompted her to start a homeless ministry to serve those in need in Shelby and Jefferson counties. And Danielle Tickell gave us a look into her work as an artist, art instructor at Shelby County Arts Council and new teacher at Hueytown Elementary School.

I’m sure you’ll find other beginnings as you look through the following pages, and you most likely have had plenty of your own, whether they are the obvious ones like back-to-school or more unique ones like starting a business from scratch. Whichever camp you’re in, I wish you well on your path away from the starting line.

If you have any story ideas to share along the way—or you just want to say hello—please feel free to reach out to me anytime. I wish you all a happy and healthy fall!

emily.sparacino@shelbyliving.com

Artist Danielle Tickell creates pieces rich with pattern, texture, line-work and layering of mediums.

Photo by Kevin McKee Design by Jamie Dawkins

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@missalabamaorg Congratulations Tiara Pennington, Miss Alabama 2019!

Tiara won $13,775 in cash scholarships. Her awards were as follows: Miss Alabama $10,000; Kalyn Chapman James Scholarship $1,075; in Honor of Dr. Deidre Downs Gunn $1,000; Dot Jenkins Memorial Maher Award $500; Preliminary Talent Award $450; Donald Keith Williams Memorial Scholarship $300; Dr. Amanda Tapley Fine Arts Scholarship $250; Catherine Crosby Long Community Service Finalist $200.

@sally_dollar Sneak peek of the July/August issue of Shelby Living magazine...Thank you Shelby Living for the wonderful coverage of The Gumball Lottery!

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“ ” THE QUESTION

Who was your favorite teacher or coach in school in Shelby County?

Laura Horn. 12th grade English teacher at SCHS. She was tough, but that was because she knew your potential. She was also fun and always wanted the best for her students.

Catherine Lilly - retired from Montevallo Middle School. She showed me as a new teacher what compassion and understanding looked like from a teacher’s perspective.

Rhonda Cochran.

Wilsonville Elementary School 1990s - 2000s. No one cared for students and taught students like she did. What an impact she had on all.

Hilda Whitfield Jowers. She taught elementary school at Helena and I remember her as always being kind to everyone and treating everyone the same, she always had a smile on her face.

-Jared Jeff Blackerby

-Elisabeth Taylor-Hester

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THE GUIDE

COTTON PICKIN’ CELEBRATION OCTOBER 26+27 Old Baker Farm 9 a.m.

Old Baker Farm is the place to be this fall.

In addition to its pumpkin patch opening, the farm’s annual Cotton Pickin’ Celebration will take place the last weekend of October. The festival celebrates the farm’s rich history with Civil War reenactments and performances by Native American dancers throughout the weekend. Visitors can also check out other features around the expansive farm, including hayrides, food, a corn maze and live music.

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THE GUIDE WHAT TO DO IN SHELBY COUNTY SEPT. 3 Lego League Albert L. Scott Library 4 p.m.

SEPT. 9 Homeschool Happening: Adventures in STEM Albert L. Scott Library 10 a.m.

SEPT. 9 Talk Books with Dee North Shelby Library 6 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 7

PHOTO BY LOUD HANDLE PRODUCTIONS

Tinglewood Festival

SEPT. 12 Save Your Stories – Preserving Oral History Albert L. Scott Library 6 p.m.

SEPT. 16 Rainbow Magic Monday Albert L. Scott Library 4 p.m.

10 A.M. Orr Park Shavings, Smoke and Sound – the trifecta is returning to Montevallo’s Orr Park.

Admission is free to this annual festival, a daylong event featuring a chainsaw carving exhibition, whittling contest, artist booths, demonstrations, live music, a car show and a food truck area. Kids can enjoy their own age-appropriate activities, too.

SEPT. 17 Super Turbo Time Albert L. Scott Library 6 p.m.

SEPT. 20 American Girls Club: Buffet Bites Albert L. Scott Library 4 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 10

SEPT. 22 Cake & Culture Albert L. Scott Library 2 p.m.

10 A.M.

SEPT. 24 Wordplay Albert L. Scott Library 4:15 p.m.

CONTRIBUTED

Harvest of Hope Luncheon The Club in Birmingham Oak Mountain Mission Ministries is able to serve the poor and vulnerable in Shelby and Jefferson counties because of local churches’ support, help from 12 September/October 2019

hundreds of volunteers and proceeds from the annual Harvest of Hope Luncheon. This year’s luncheon will feature keynote speaker Ashley Curry, Vestavia Hills mayor.

More details are available at oakmtnmissions.com or by calling the office at (205) 685-5757.

SEPT. 27 Readalicious Book Club Albert L. Scott Library 4 p.m.

SEPT. 9 Sock Puppets with a Heart!

North Shelby Library 4 p.m.

THE GUIDE OCT. 3 Mt Laurel Book Club Mt Laurel Library 7 p.m.

OCT. 5 Grape Stomp Morgan Creek Vineyards 1 p.m.

OCT. 7 3D Print Workshop for Adults North Shelby Library 6 p.m.

OCT. 8 Graphic Novel Book Club North Shelby Library 4 p.m.

OCT. 11 Tai Chi and Meditative Movement North Shelby Library 9:30 a.m.

OCT. 12 Teen Volunteer Day North Shelby Library 10 a.m.

OCT. 16 Homeschool Art Club North Shelby Library 2:30 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 7+22

Paddle Board Yoga 9 A.M. Oak Mountain State Park Not all yoga has to happen inside a studio.

Join one of the exploratory classes of paddle board yoga this month, and see why people are choosing to relax—and stretch—on the quiet waters in Oak

Mountain State Park. Classes meet at the marina off Terrace Drive. The cost of each class is $25 for those needing a board or $15 for those that bring their own board.

The classes are open to anyone who can swim. Register at Yogatrekkinginternational.com/paddleboard-yoga.

OCTOBER 5

OCT. 20 Barktoberfest Helena Amphitheater 12 p.m.

OCT. 24 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament North Shelby Library 6 p.m.

OCT. 25 The Avett Brothers Oak Mountain Amphitheatre OCT. 26 Mt Laurel Lego Club Mt Laurel Library 11 a.m.

OCT. 28 Hoover Links Fore Scholars Inverness Country Club 8 a.m.

Paul Thorn

7 P.M. Shelby County Arts LATE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER

The Patch Helena Hollow

Families can have a “pumpkin pickin’ good time” at The Patch at Helena Hollow, open to the public from the last weekend of September through the end of October each year. Admission includes a hayride to the pumpkin patch, one pumpkin per person, and at least 15 different attractions for all ages to enjoy.

Council Paul Thorn’s Americana, blues and Southern rock sound is influenced by his childhood growing up as the son of a preacher and being introduced to music at a young age. Tickets can be purchased at Shelbycountyartscouncil. com.

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THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN SEPT. 4 Backstreet Boys BJCC Legacy Arena SEPT. 8 Young Artist Reception Hoover Public Library 3 p.m.

SEPT. 12 The Magic of David Garrard Samford University Wright Center SEPT. 13-15 PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure BJCC Concert Hall SEPT. 14 The Brook and the Bluff Alys Stephens Center

CITIES

Collaboration in Bloom The Helena Business Association recently made a generous donation to the Helena Beautification Board for the creation of a bed of roses in Old Town. The roses, planted near the welcome center caboose, are an English variety named “The Lady of Shallot,” a large double-flowered rose with salmon-pink blooms that was named an American Garden Rose Selection winner for the Southeast in 2017.

SCHOOLS

Bringing Home the Gold Months of hard work and preparation paid off for a group of Columbiana Middle School students this summer.

The students traveled with teacher Samantha Pursley to California to give their presentations on various topics at the national Future Career and Community Leaders of America competition. The group that competed in interpersonal communications ranked first in the nation, the Illustrated Talking group ranked third and the Entrepreneurship group ranked 12th. All three groups brought home gold, which 14 September/October 2019

SEPT. 19 Marlow Shepherd and the Abraham Becker Orchestra The Lyric Theatre SEPT. 19 Rhiannon Giddens with Franceso Turri Alys Stephens Center SEPT. 20 Dino-Light Alys Stephens Center SEPT. 21 Head Over Teal 5K/10K and Family Fall Festival The Preserve 8 a.m.

SEPT. 19-21 St. George Middle Eastern Food Festival St. George Greek-Catholic Milkite Church SEPT. 24 Sparks in the Park Veterans Park 6 p.m.

means their scores were between 90 and 100.

SEPT. 25 Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors The Lyric Theatre

THE GUIDE SEPT. 27-29 Homestead Hollow Arts & Crafts Festival Springville

EVENTS

SEPT. 28 Irondale Whistle Stop Festival Historic Downtown Irondale SEPT. 28 Fiesta Linn Park OCT. 4-6 Barber Vintage Festival Barber Motorsports Park OCT. 5 Birmingham Oktoberfest Railroad Park OCT. 5 Bluff Park Art Show Bluff Park Community Center OCT. 5 Lego Play North Shelby Library All Day OCT. 6 KHSA Mad Hatter’s Tea The Barn at Shady Lane 3 p.m.

OCT. 6 Cahaba River Fish Fry Competition and Festival Railroad Park OCT. 17 NSL Book Club North Shelby Library 10:30 a.m.

OCT. 20 Breakin’ Bread Pepper Place OCT. 25 Magic City Music Fest with Tom Joyner BJCC Concert Hall OCT. 30 We Will Rock You presented by Alabama Theatre Alabama Theatre

Showing Up for the show An estimated 4,000 people gathered at Orr Park in Montevallo to hear popular artists including Alessia Cara, Echosmith, AJ Mitchell and Stephen Puth perform at 103.7 The Q’s Just Show Up Show in Montevallo in August. Food vendors kept people fed as they listened to the tunes.

SCHOOLS

Heroes in North Shelby Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy James Sellers, who serves as the School Resource Officer for Oak Mountain Elementary School, and his daughter, Jayven Sellers, received Journey Shaper Awards after they helped to battle a fire at the school in May. Javyen and her father were headed to see a movie when they stopped at the school to drop off some items. Jayven noticed the fire and drew her father’s attention to it. Deputy Sellers pulled the fire alarm, called 911 and started battling the fire with fire extinguishers until local

fire departments arrived on the scene.

Because of his efforts, the damage was mainly contained to one classroom on the kindergarten hallway.

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THE SIMPLE LIFE

Support Systems Parent-teacher conference Thursday. Contact caterer for next week’s Lunch and Learn. Call the roofer for an estimate. Update website. Recheck insurance claim. Schedule dentist appointment for the boys. Write thank you notes.

Help study spelling words. If you’re a working parent, chances are excellent that this daily to-do list looks familiar. No wonder working parents feel stressed. Couple this with thinking of what you need to do tomorrow and panic completely takes over. It’s time to call in your support systems.

• Clone yourself. Look for ways to create a carpool schedule.

Consider asking an older sibling of your child’s teammate to drive them.

Ask another parent and if you can’t reciprocate, consider thanking them Owner of SimpleWorks, Simpleworks.guru with a gas gift card. Cook double lisa@simpleworks.guru portions and share with your 205.981.7733 neighbor and they do the same.

Utilize grocery pick-up and delivery services. Get on auto-ship for purchases you know you need over and over.

• Same page. Getting the whole family together to talk about school schedules, who needs to be where and when, project supplies, test dates, work events, etc. Once you have a glimpse of the week ahead, planning meal prep and extra activities becomes more productive. No more surprises that tomorrow is ’50s Day at school.

• Time out. As parents, life is continuous. Life doesn’t get better when they’re out of diapers, or going to school all day, or out for the summer, or driving themselves. Life doesn’t get better—YOU get better on how you handle life. We used to rest on Sunday, leave work at the office and take regular vacations where no one could reach you. Times have changed. Finding meaningful flexibility and longer breaks can be impossible with year-round sports, and the 365 mentality for businesses. Turn off all screens, close your planner and chill. Even for the busiest of us, 20 minutes a day is doable.

• Say no. It’s OK to say no to a million things that don’t move you toward your family goals. If you have a hard time doing this, start with taking one thing off your schedule this week. Eliminate two things next week. When you stop spreading yourself so thin, you become more in the areas that line up with your values.

As a working parent, you’re one person doing two challenging full-time jobs. Some even juggle a third position as a caregiver, volunteer or coach. Take advantage of anything that gives you back time. Find a support system that works. It’s that simple.

Lisa Phillips

&CULTURE

ARTS

FOCUSING HER MIND Danielle Tickell finds quiet fulfillment in the depths of drawing, painting and pottery.

BY ANNE RILEY PHOTOS BY KEVIN MCKEE ShelbyLiving.com

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W

When art instructor Danielle Tickell describes her work, she says that teaching is her passion and art is her love. Both are evident in her work at the Shelby County Arts Council and in her recentlyaccepted position at Hueytown Elementary School, where she shares her artistic inspiration with students who might otherwise not be engaged in the creative process. Danielle believes that art brings a sense of calm to the artist, whether that’s Danielle herself or one of her students.

“Creating art is a way to clear and focus the mind,” Danielle says. “I feel at peace and like I really have a grasp on my life when I’m working.”

As a two-time graduate of the University of Montevallo, Danielle holds her bachelor’s degree in fine arts with a concentration in both drawing and

18 September/October 2019

painting, as well as a master’s degree in art education. In fact, it was during her time at Montevallo that she first realized how comfortable she felt working in a studio. Joe and Misty Bennett, two of her art professors, had a particular impact on her love for the craft. “I had so many ideas and concepts that I needed to express, and so many opportunities to do so visually,” Danielle says.

While her career path as an artist didn’t fully bloom until college, Danielle’s love for art took root years earlier, when she signed up for a required Art 1 class at Hueytown High School. Danielle’s art teacher, Elizabeth Ware, transformed the way she viewed artistic expression. “She pursued me and assisted me greatly in growing my God-gifted skills and talents that I had never tapped into,” Danielle

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Danielle Tickell is an art instructor at the Shelby County Arts Council.

says of her former instructor. “She has been such a blessing in my life and is the reason I became an artist and an art educator.”

That’s the kind of impact Danielle wants to have on her students at SCAC and at Hueytown Elementary—but there’s someone else in her life who’s showing interest in art, too. Danielle and her husband of six years, Christopher, have a 2-yearold daughter, Aria, who loves to play with Danielle’s art supplies. The family lives in Calera along with their dog, Brownie.

Of course, Danielle loves spending time with her family, but it’s not as easy to find time for her own art as it used to be. She has a studio in her home, but her work often migrates to other areas of the house, like the living room or the kitchen island— whatever works best in the moment. “It’s hard to find time to create and enjoy doing so without interruption,” Danielle says. “Life is busy, and with a young child, my attention is constantly being

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“

I always enjoy seeing inspiration in the eyes of others brought on by my artwork.

– Danielle Tickell

”

pulled in many directions for many different tasks.”

Somehow, though, she does find the time to create. Her pieces are vintage-inspired, showcasing diminutive details and whimsical designs. She creates a unique style in her artwork by marrying techniques from both drawing and painting, resulting in pieces rich with pattern, texture, linework and the layering of mediums.

“I always enjoy seeing inspiration in the eyes of others brought on by my artwork,” Danielle says.

“It allows us to make brief connections as humans just going about living life, encountering and engaging with others on a personal level.”

One of the most exciting things Danielle gets to do with her students is create pottery, both wheelthrown and hand-built. Hand-built pottery is often created through coil, slab or mold techniques, and Danielle enjoys teaching that style to her students, but wheel-throwing is where the real fun happens.

“It is hard to master, so sometimes, you do not know what the end product will be because it is moving as you are working on it,” she says. “I enjoy teaching wheel-throwing to my young students because they will jump right in where many adults would be hesitant.”

Ultimately, Danielle believes that her art expresses her feelings about nature and the world around her, including details about her own experiences that the viewer may or may not be able to interpret. “My desire is to create something beautiful that really speaks to the soul of an individual who may look at or purchase a work,” Danielle says. “In instances where I gift a piece of my artwork, I feel I am passing on a depth of myself.”

Follow Danielle on Facebook at Danielle Tickell Art, or email DanielleTickellArt@yahoo.com for official inquiries.

20 September/October 2019

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ARTS COUNCIL CORNER

ROOT, BRANCH, AND STAR Doug Baulos will christen the SCAC’s new art gallery with this immersive installation.

BY LINDSAY DYESS PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED All artists have a way of breaking down perceptions and helping us view the world with a different perspective. They can use the simplest of objects and materials to create incredible and beautiful imagery. Artist Douglas Baulos uses handmade papers and natural dyes to express a multitude of elements in his work, such as grief and mortality, nesting, mending and memory, to name a few.

His next immersive installation, “Root, Paul Thorn Branch, and Star,” will be the first gallery exhibit at the Shelby County Arts Council’s new EBSCO Fine Art Gallery.

These unique installations are created using natural fibers and constructed with found materials. “Although I work with emotionally heavy conceptual themes like loss, mortality and the power and delicate nature of memory, my work is a reflection of my attempt to live my life in fragile exultation,” Baulos says. “I merge the abstraction of narrative with the physicality of objects.”

Baulos says writers of southern Dougbaulos.com.

ART BY DOUG BAULOS literature, such as Harper Lee and Carson Returning to the SCAC’s Black Box Theater on McCullers, have been influences in his works. “I Sept. 13 is Alabama native Damon Johnson. mirror their interest in the subliminal, unremarkable Johnson has spent many years on the rock ‘n’ roll and overlooked within exquisite emotional scene playing with bands such as Alice Cooper, landscapes. I express the oscillation of hope and Brother Cane, Black Star Riders and Thin Lizzy. He despair while exploring the boundaries and joins us in the new Black Box Theater for an intimate intersections within the nature of identity.” Baulos acoustic solo performance. Check out Johnson’s is also the assistant professor of drawing at the latest album, Memoirs of an Uprising.

University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Also coming to the Black Box Theater is Paul curriculum director at Studio by the Tracks – an art Thorn on Oct. 5. Thorn’s Americana, blues and center that provides free art classes to emotionally southern rock sound is influenced by his childhood conflicted children and adults with autism spectrum growing up as the son of a preacher and being disorder or other mental illnesses. The exhibit introduced to music at a young age.

“Root, Branch, and Star” opens at the Shelby County Arts Council in Old Mill Square on Sept. 20 at 6 Tickets and all SCAC event information can be p.m. More of Baulos’s work can be seen at found at Shelbycountyartscouncil.com.

22 September/October 2019

SCHOOL

&SPORTS

FIGHTERS AND FRIENDS More happens inside the walls of The Garage than just kickboxing.

BY LINDSAY SCHLUNTZ PHOTOS BY JEREMY RAINES ShelbyLiving.com

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After retiring from a career as a mixed martial arts fighter, Jeremy Phillips soon found himself missing the training part of fighting. He decided to start offering private lessons in his garage. But when demand for his classes soared, he took a chance and quit his day job, emptied his 401k and started a full-fledged public kickboxing gym.

Knowing he couldn’t accomplish the dream alone, he reached out to Zak Moore. “Zak and I had trained together during my fighting career and we became friends,” he says. “It was a big commitment that I was asking from him, but he didn’t hesitate.

He just said ‘Yup, let’s do it!’”

of their members, that there would be something for everyone at The Garage. Currently, members under age 10 and over age 60 are enjoying the family-friendly vibe the gym offers.

PUTTING THE GLOVES BACK ON

Zak and Jeremy initially opened The Garage as purely a fitness and training facility. “I had no intentions for a competition team, but it took less than six months for someone to talk me into it,” Jeremy says, laughing. “We now have a jujitsu trainer from Clanton, Devin Scott. He’s really opened up the door to a whole new audience.”

Although only a very small percentage of members participate in the competition fighting component of the gym, The Garage has seen significant success on the combat sports circuit. In fact, The Garage is home to the first female kickboxing champion from the state of Alabama, Rebecca Rotenberry. “Rebecca is an absolute savage in the ring, but she’s one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met and a neuro nurse at UAB. You see her in

In May this year, the friends celebrated the third anniversary of The Garage Kickboxing gym in Alabaster. Together, these athletes are proud to offer a departure from typical workout routines, utilizing their over 18 years combined experience in high-energy combat sports, including kickboxing, Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). “There are many forms of kickboxing, which is mainly focused on kicks and punches,” Zak explains. “Muay Thai adds in elbows, knees and a clinch. Mixed Martial Arts is just that; you get a mix of the different styles and use what works for you.”

It was important to the duo to ensure that no matter the age, skill level or initial fitness condition

24 September/October 2019

TRAINING POWERHOUSE ATHLETES

Abby Earwood competes in kickboxing for The Garage.

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The Garage is open to anyone – men and women – and serves as a resource for people preparing for competition as well as those simply looking for fitness training.

When Jeremy Phillips, left, decided to take his kickboxing lessons to the next level and open The Garage, he asked his friend Zak Moore to work with him.

the ring and you’d never know what her day job is,” Jeremy says. “I would boastfully say that we have the best female team in the state of Alabama.”

Even so, Jeremy often reminds people that he doesn’t differentiate between his male fighters and female fighters, and adds, “I just have fighters. They train together and spar together. The whole competition team has impressed me, and we’ve had a lot of success in a short amount of time.”

STEPPING INTO THE RING

seen some pretty dramatic body transformations, for sure,” Jeremy says. “One of our members lost 100 pounds in a year’s training time, and several others have lost 50-70 pounds.”

They regularly tell people with significant weight loss goals that to get significant results, they should plan to put in at least three days a week at The Garage. “It’s hard to gain ground doing only two days a week. So, we ask them to commit at least three, and if they can come six, then come six.

Listen to your body, of course, but if you can, do.”

NO CLASS TIMES = NO EXCUSES In addition to the competition component of the gym, The Garage’s popularity as a resource for During the regularly staffed hours at the gym, effective fitness training has grown quickly over the trainers are readily available to support members last three years.

“We offer interval training. It’s that high-intensity with their goals. The trainers explained that this stuff that’s going to burn fat and add muscle. We’ve freeform structure to classes removes one of the

26 September/October 2019

BUSINESS BASICS Current Hours of Operation:

Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 2-8 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 2-5 p.m.

4730 Chace Cir, Suite 124

205-777-5984

@babajavacoffee

www.babajavacoffee.com

Saturday: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Website: Thegaragekickboxing.com Instagram: @thegaragekickboxing

Facebook: Facebook.com/thegaragekickboxing

URGENT CARE from main roadblocks to working out. “We’ve learned that if a class starts at a certain time, that time itself becomes an excuse for people to choose to not come.

They think they’re too busy, or going to be late, or just don’t feel like it,” Jeremy says.

After two free trial sessions, if participants choose to continue with an ongoing membership, the automatic monthly payment of $69.99 begins on the first day of the following month.

The next step for The Garage’s growth is transitioning their Alabaster location to a 24-7 gym and adding another location soon. “It’s maybe not as easy as I originally made it seem. There were a lot of bumps in the road, lots of trial and error. We had to learn a lot on the fly and we’re still learning,” Jeremy says. “Neither one of us were businessmen. But we are passionate about this business and doing it really well.”

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28 September/October 2019

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5

SCHOOL & SPORTS

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Evan Smith

Quarterback at Oak Mountain High School PHOTO BY NEAL WAGNER

Fifteen-year-old Evan Smith has played football for 10 years and basketball for 11, mostly as point guard. He was a running back in his early years of football, but eventually transitioned to quarterback and wide receiver, with stints as an outside linebacker and safety. He will start as the Eagles’ quarterback this season.

What is your mindset going into a new season?

My mindset going into the new season is focus on one game at a time and try to take care of business week in and week out.

What are some accomplishments you and your teammates are especially proud of?

Accomplishments my teammates and I are proud of include really getting better over the summer, and taking small steps from where we are to start and maintain a winning tradition.

What are your pregame rituals?

My pregame rituals are to first read my mom’s notes for encouragement and support, nap, have a little pep talk with What are your personal goals for this coach, and then put in my AirPods and season?

My personal goal for the season is to first focus in. lead my team with faith, and then do better

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Who inspires you as a person or as an athlete, and why?

My parents really inspire me as a person and an athlete because they keep my head straight. They tell me what’s right and what’s wrong. They teach me how to handle situations. They teach me to put in 110 percent of my effort and time into the sport in which I love. They teach me to never fear while playing the sport because I am in God’s hands. And, finally, they teach me how to give.

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&DRINK

FOOD

SWEET SHOP

Baking cookies for a party turned into a fullfledged home cookie business for Mandy Phillips.

BY EMILY REED PHOTOS BY SARAH FINNEGAN ShelbyLiving.com

31

I

It was a last-minute decision to bake and decorate sugar cookies for her daughter’s preschool party that led to Mandy Phillips’ new business, Sugar Britches Cookie Shop. “The business started somewhat by accident,” Mandy says. “I signed up for cookies for her party and initially thought I would order some to take to the party, but every time I tried to order cookies from the person I knew about, they were never available.”

She began researching ways to decorate cookies, and created some Easter-themed sugar cookies for the party. “I have never really done anything like that,” she says. “My children normally sit down at

32 September/October 2019

Christmas and decorate sugar cookies, but as far as me decorating cookies to take to a party, I had never done that before.”

Once at the party, Mandy received rave reviews from other guests, prompting her to continue the concept—and even sell them. “Everyone was so nice and encouraging when I brought them. The director at my daughter’s preschool told me she thought they tasted better than some other cookies she had previously ordered, and she also told me I needed to start selling them.”

Mandy started out small and began taking some of her cookie creations to her church, which she

Mandy Phillips is the mom and baker behind Sugar Britches Cookie Shop.

Mandy says a new trend for birthday parties and celebrations is to serve decorated sugar cookies instead of, or in addition to, a cake.

34 September/October 2019

often gave away as gifts to people. As word continued to spread about the precision, details, design and, most of all, taste of her cookies, she and her family decided to capitalize on the momentum and form a business.

In May, Mandy obtained her Cottage Food certification, a license which allows her to sell perishable items from her Calera home, and she has spent the last several months creating a variety of cookies for customers. “We are a home-based bakery where everything is made by just me,” she says. “It has been so much fun for us, but it has also gotten a bit crazy with the amount of orders we are receiving. If people want a special, decorated treat for their event, we are happy to provide. The possibilities for decorating are endless.”

According to Mandy, a new trend for many birthday parties or celebrations is to serve decorated sugar cookies instead of, or in addition to, a cake. “People want to have sugar cookies that go with the theme of their event, and in some cases the cookies are replacing a cake, or being requested to go on top of cakes,” she says.

Popular cookie designs have been Mickey Mouse and fiesta themed. And Mandy often hand-cuts her designs if a customer requests something that might not fit a standard cookie cutter.

“I can make anything,” she says. “It is really fun to talk to a customer about an idea or a design and then work to come up with something that they will enjoy.”

One thing that sets Phillips’ cookies apart is the “special” flavor of her cookies. “I use a lemon flavoring for my cookies, so unless you specify, you will get a cookie that has a hint of lemon in it.

I have a lot of people tell me that my cookies not only look good, but they taste delicious. I can make a standard sugar cookie dough if customers want that, but they need to tell me that ahead of

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Sugar Britches is basically a one-woman operation, so Mandy suggests placing cookie orders with her as soon as possible before an occasion. To place an order or to see Mandy’s creations, visit Sugar Britches Cookie Shop on Facebook or email sugarbritchescookieshop@gmail.com.

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time.”

She rolls her handmade cookie dough thicker than most sugar cookies, which makes the cookies larger and softer. Once she applies the Royal icing, a hard icing, the cookies become a bit harder in the center, but still remain plenty soft enough to eat.

Mandy likes for customers to order cookies from her at least two weeks in advance. “If it is a design that I wouldn’t already have a cookie cutter for, I would need time to get it in,” she says. “Once I start working on a set, it takes me about two days 36 September/October 2019

to get it completed.”

Currently, she works with customers to arrange a pickup time for her cookies. She encourages customers to place their orders with her as soon as possible. “I do get booked since it is just me working on the cookies and I have to set myself a limit,” she says.

Mandy anticipates making the business a fulltime venture in the near future. “I have also held two cookie decorating classes for kids,” she adds.

“That was a lot of fun, and the kids had a great

“It is really fun to talk to a customer about an idea or a design and then work to come up with something that they will enjoy.”

– Mandy Phillips

After a bone marrow transplant, Jada is taking on life — and studying psychology in college!

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Her husband, Keith, and their children, Karsyn, 7, Sadie, 5 and Layla, 11 months, help and enjoy the business as well. “We have been really blessed and have loved every minute of it so far,” she says.

“We look forward to seeing where this takes us.”

To place an order or to see Mandy’s creations, visit Sugar Britches Cookie Shop on Facebook or email sugarbritchescookieshop@gmail.com.

They’re taking on life ... because we are COMMITTED to a CURE. ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure ShelbyLiving.com

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FOOD & DRINK

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

David and Joe Maluff

Full Moon Bar-B-Que Owners PHOTO BY EMILY SPARACINO

These barbecue brothers have been in the restaurant business for more than 25 years, and their love of the work rivals only their love of the barbecue meats and homemade sides served at Full Moon Bar-B-Que. We caught up with the Maluff duo for an update on their newly renovated restaurant on U.S. 280, plus a little history lesson on how the business started—and the story behind that now-famous moon face logo.

How did Full Moon Bar-B-Que—and its famous moon face logo—form years ago?

Pat James is the founder of Full Moon, which was called Pat James’ Full Moon Bar-B-Que in 1986. We purchased it from Pat in 1997 and just called ourselves “Full Moon Bar-B-Que.” Pat came up with the logo, moon face and name; all we did is enhance the moon to where it is today. The moon on the wall of the Southside location is a nice landmark.

What sets Full Moon Bar-B-Que apart from other barbecue joints?

We still have an open wood-burning pit in all of our restaurants. You see the pit with our fresh meats cooking. We still do 38 September/October 2019

things old-fashioned, and we spend money on each store on the wood, the pit masters and the pit itself. It’s true to what real barbecue is.

What was your mindset after the fire at this location in May 2018?

We knew we were going to rebuild. We gutted it out completely from head to toe, down to the concrete, and started fresh.

We expanded the kitchen, and we have a baking room now. We also have kegs and coolers for draft beers. We can have different flights of beers, domestic and craft. We’re just glad we’re back open on Highway 280 for our employees and customers.

What are a couple of your favorite memories from working here over the years?

280 has been very good to us. It’s been enjoyable. We have some great, great customers, very loyal. We’re in our stores every day; we’re not absentee owners.

Just for fun, what are your personal favorite menu items?

I (David) love the smoked turkey, and there’s not a day I don’t eat chow chow.

You can’t get that at other restaurants. I (Joe) like the turkey – the crisp, charred outside.

For more information about Full Moon Bar-B-Que, visit Fullmoonbbq.com.

&STYLE

HOME

MODERN CABIN Every detail inside—and outside—of Leann and Travis Robinson’s home was carefully chosen.

BY EMILY SPARACINO PHOTOS BY BRENDON PINOLA AND KEITH MCCOY ShelbyLiving.com

39

Front Façade

I

If you ask Leann and Travis Robinson what they love most about their custom-built home in Alabaster, they have trouble giving a short answer.

Every room, every design element, every square inch of space—from the foyer to the back patio to the detached garage—is exactly what the couple wanted when they took on the tedious process of building the house last year. “We took a floorplan and changed it to make it ours,” Leann says. “We knew we didn’t want to buy something that somebody else built for them. We needed something for us, and we built it exactly how we wanted it to a T.” For Travis, who works in the oil and gas industry, owning a house outright after years of making sacrifices and working almost non-stop was important. He and Leann married in November 2017 and rented a place before they started building on their 5-acre parcel of land in Alabaster. “I have lived and worked in 35 different states in 16 years,”

40 September/October 2019

The cedar columns give the front of the Robinsons’ house a natural look and provide a warm tone to contrast with darker shades in the stone and brick.

he says. “I sacrificed a lot for 20 years to get to where I wouldn’t have to sacrifice anything.

Everything is paid for.”

After what seemed like an endless parade of decisions, they moved into their completed dream home in November 2018. They describe the style as “modern cabin,” a design that can withstand constant use by themselves, their children and their pets. “We wanted to keep it simple and clean,” Leann says. “The kids love it.” Travis notes the open-concept floorplan that makes entertaining so easy, too. “It has both of our personalities in it,” he says of the overall design. “Whatever we wanted, we were going to do. It’s livable, and that’s what we wanted.”

When they travel, even for just a few days, Leann and Travis find themselves wanting to get back to their house quickly. “I never thought I’d live in a home I never want to leave,” Travis says, and Leann adds, “We do love it back here.”

Leann and Travis Robinson wanted an open, comfortable home that reected their personalities, and that's exactly what they got in their custom-built home in Alabaster.

PHOTO BY KEITH MCCOY

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Living Room The mantelpiece made of wood from forests in other states Travis has traveled to for work serves as a focal point in this simple, comfortable space.

42 September/October 2019

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Office Although Leann designed the office with Travis in mind—she chose a dark paint color for the walls, along with a large wooden desk and exposed cedar beams that match the front columns—she says she uses the space more than he does.

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Dining Room The kitchen flows into the dining room, where light grays, silver accents and natural light create a bright space for family meals.

Patio and Pool The Robinsons’ back patio and pool were on their must-have list for the house. They use the outdoor kitchen for grilling nearly every day. Leann starts most of her mornings with a cup of coffee in the sitting area right outside of the master bedroom.

“We pretty much live outside,” Leann says.

44 September/October 2019

Kitchen The couple says the kitchen is likely the room most tailored to their preferences because they knew they would spend much of their time in it every day. A large refrigerator and stove for Leann’s frequent cooking were musts. They added a built-in Miele coffee machine and opted for quartz countertops that are “almost indestructible,” Leann says.

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Master Suite The conversation piece in the master bedroom is undoubtedly the vaulted wood ceiling which, coupled with the stone fireplace, gives the room a lodge-style feel. The bathroom is an ultra-sleek space with modern fixtures, a walk-in shower and ample storage space in drawers and cabinets.

46 September/October 2019

Basement The spacious basement, with its ample seating on the luxurious leather couch in front of a flat-screen TV and a small kitchen tucked away in the corner, gives the family another place to relax. Two spare bedrooms and a bathroom also make the basement a convenient space for guests to stay.

Gym One of the items on Travis’s must-have list for the house was a gym. Exercise is an inextricable part of the former bodybuilder’s routine, and he wanted his own space to retreat to for his daily workouts.

“The gym is his sanctuary,” Leann says.

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Garage Travis wanted a detached garage to house the vintage cars he collects.

“When I travel I just find them. It’s been a passion since I was a kid,” he says. “My number one drive is my cars.” His collection includes a ’65 Mustang, ’68 Mustang Fastback, ’67 Nova SS, ’69 Camaro, ’66 Chevelle and a ’55 Chevy Bel Air.

Apartment Above the garage is an apartment that doubles a trophy room for Travis as well as a guest house, complete with a full kitchen. Leann and Travis have dubbed one of the bedrooms the Clint Eastwood Room, a nod to Travis’s appreciation for the actor’s storied career.

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48 September/October 2019

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IN THEIR

BLOOD

The Bearden brothers are fourth-generation farmers in Shelby County.

By Rebekah Martin | Photos by Dawn Harrison and Contributed

50 September/October 2019

Randy Bearden and his brother, Wayne, own ShelClair Farm in Vincent.

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“I can honestly say that as long as I’m healthy, I’ll be working on this farm. You don’t quit something you actually love. It’s never been a job for me – it’s a way of life. Just how I’ve always been and how I’ll always be.”

-Randy Bearden

52 September/October 2019

I

It’s 4 a.m. on a crisp, autumn morning in Vincent. start in Helena in 1929.

In the early ’70s, family patriarch J.E. “Ned” Bearden brothers, Randy and Wayne, are awake before the sun doing what all farmers do: sweating, Bearden, after whom the Pelham High School football stadium is named, and two of his sons, Joel bleeding and crying on the land they call home.

Nestled in the “foothills of the foothills” of the and Ralph, bought 600 acres in Vincent and named it Shel-Clair Farm, with Appalachian Mountains, two-thirds of the farm in in the Northeast corner From left, Wayne, Ralph and Randy Bearden.

Shelby County and the of Shelby County, just remaining acreage in St. shy of a thousand acres Clair. Ralph’s two sons, of rolling hills, springRandy and Wayne, who fed creeks and lush were teenagers at the greenery make for time, live on the farm to picturesque scenes of a this day, and the pair simpler time. still abide by the rules Fourth-generation they were taught as farmers, first dairy and children. now beef, the brothers Their father, Ralph, a have milk and dirt running through their veins. On this farm, there are man with twinkling blue eyes, two large dimples and a few rules by which the Bearden men have always few words, moved with his wife, Monta Faye, and lived: Work hard, pray harder, pull for the Tigers their four children to Vincent in 1974. There the men worked the land, milked cows, raised children and and don’t sass your mama.

The history of Bearden dairy farmers spans nearly tried to break even for more than three decades until a century with the original Bearden farm getting its the last dairy cows were loaded up and sold to the

ShelbyLiving.com

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highest bidder. Ralph had retired five years before, and the brothers, who are equal parts gruff and kind-hearted, pushed through until finally deciding to sell the dairy in 2005.

“We each had four children – one’s a veterinarian, one’s a politician, one’s a school teacher … Nobody was coming back to the farm and it didn’t make sense for us to work seven days a week just hoping to break even at the end of the month … and we didn’t always break even,” Randy says.

The last holsteins were milked on Bearden land on March 5, 2005.

“Man, that was scary. Wayne and I watched that last trailer load of cattle leave here, and we’re like, ‘Now what are we gonna do?,’” Randy says. “We didn’t know what was going to happen. We were pretty sure we were going into the beef business but no concrete plans had been made.”

Not wanting to see their life’s work vanish overnight, Randy and Wayne held onto 40 cows for another year until finally deciding to let it go.

“We watched Uncle Joel do that. They had a dispersal sale in Helena—they milked cows on Saturday morning and by Saturday evening there

54 September/October 2019

was not a cow in sight. The equipment was gone.

Seventy-two years of milking cows in the same place, without missing a single day and suddenly there was nothing left,” Randy says. “We didn’t go that route.

We were really just afraid to quit. We didn’t know how to let it go.”

With no holsteins to be milked and no 4 a.m. wake up calls, the Bearden brothers, along with their father and their three sons, packed their bags and the RV, and headed out West.

They visited Colorado and the Grand Canyon–enjoying the first real rest they had in years.

Once back home in “God’s country,” Randy said they endured a trial by fire while navigating the beef business. “We pretty much jumped in with both feet and hoped to come out in one piece on the other side,” he says. There was a definite learning curve, but with patience and prayer, the brothers found success.

Known as a cow-calf operation, today Shel-Clair is a thriving cattle farm complete with horse boarding, riding trails and beautiful views. Randy manages the upkeep of the farm’s 12 miles of marked horse trails and a newly planted apple orchard that he says will

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Wayne, Ramona, Cindy and Randy Bearden with their father, Ralph; Randy Bearden and his grandson Jackson; and the first Bearden Farm in Helena.

make a beautiful spot in a couple of years. He enjoys thinking of ways to make the homestead a more beautiful place—and he has big plans for the future.

Eventually, Kelley Creek will be a site for primitive camping. Wayne is quite the opposite. The selfproclaimed silent partner is like his father in more ways than one: he’s a man of few words. “If you see something that’s running, that’s Wayne’s doing. If you see something that’s pretty, that’s Randy,” says the youngest of the Bearden brood, Ramona.

Between the brothers and their two younger sisters, Cindy and Ramona, the Bearden family is a large one, with 14 grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren. Shel-Clair serves as a gathering spot for the growing brood that is expanding year by year.

In addition to his brother, Randy has another notso-silent partner in his dog Belue. “She helps me run this farm,” he says. “She never leaves my feet … I’m going to have a funeral on this farm when that dog dies. She’s my best friend.”

Belue’s favorite farm job is moving cattle, but Randy says the 8-year-old blue heeler doesn’t care what she’s doing so long as she’s working. “It doesn’t matter what we’re doing as long as she’s right there with me all day long,” he says. “I paid $100 for her and $100,000 couldn’t buy her now. I will never

Randy and Belue

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2016

FROM THE FARM Shel-Clair Farm and Ranch is located at 5635 Hwy. 57 in Vincent. Randy also writes a blog, “Thoughts from a Tractor Seat,” where he shares anecdotes and life lessons about life at Shel-Clair. His writings, along with photos and more information about the Bearden family farm, can be found at shelclairfarms.com.

EVERYTHING SHELBY COUNTY. ALL YEAR LONG. Go to Shelbyliving.com and subscribe for $20.59 a year or call 205-669-3131. @shelbylivingmagazine

56 September/October 2019

@shelbylivingmagazine

have another dog like her.”

A few years ago, to commemorate his 60th birthday, Randy and Belue set out on an all-day hike around the perimeter of the farm. The pair tackled 12 miles of terrain that day and paid for it for the next week. “It was something I always wanted to do really just to see if I could,” he says. “It took all day and almost killed me. I claimed I’d do it again on my 70th, but those stairs at my house are getting a little difficult, so I don’t know if it’ll happen.”

When he’s not on the farm, Randy burns up the interstate on the way to Raleigh, North Carolina to visit his grandsons. The boys keep him young and simultaneously out-of-breath, but Randy says Jack, Carter and Liam are the lights of his life. “If I ever have a granddaughter, I’ll be there every other weekend,” he says with a laugh.

With no plans to retire, Randy says he will one day die on the dirt that’s known as Shel-Clair Farm and Ranch. “I can honestly say that as long as I’m healthy,

I’ll be working on this farm,” Randy says. “You don’t quit something you actually love. It’s never been a job for me–it’s a way of life. Just how I’ve always been and how I’ll always be.”

His favorite part? The independence. “I don’t have to fight traffic every day and punch a timeclock.

Unless there’s some emergency with a cow down or a tree over a fence or something then my day goes along as how I plan it.”

And to him there’s really no better way to live. “It’s the best way in the world if you asked me,” he says.

“Nothing can beat it. (On a farm) children learn about life and death and hard work and the value of hard work … It’s been said a million times by a million different farmers, but I truly believe that there’s no better lifestyle when it comes to raising your children.”

Randy penned what it means to him to be a farmer in Shelby County. To him, it’s how life should be and he can’t imagine anything better: “It begins with a sunrise and a good cup of coffee. Somewhere in rural Shelby County someone is checking the herd or preparing a tractor for a day in the fields. From animal agriculture to row crops and everything in between, Shelby County is blessed with a wide variety of agricultural interests and the men and women who are part of the 2 percent: the proud and privileged to call themselves farmers who at the end of a long day and the setting of the sun eagerly await the next break of light and the next good cup of coffee.”

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Volunteers sort toiletry items at the Hands and Feet of Jesus ministry's storage unit in Calera before distributing them during their monthly serve day in downtown Birmingham.

60 September/October 2019

DELIVERING

HOPE

LaKesha Williamson decided to put her Christian faith into action through a new outreach ministry.

L

By Emily Sparacino | Photos by Keith McCoy and Contributed

LaKesha Williamson wanted to do her part as a follower of Jesus Christ and help meet people’s needs when she signed up for a mission trip to California in 2018. As her group from Church of the Highlands in Alabaster delivered meals to people unable to leave their homes, passed out toiletry bags to the homeless and ministered to whomever they could on the streets of Los Angeles, a tagline for what the group was trying to accomplish came to LaKesha and stuck with her long after the trip. “God put on my heart the name ‘Hands and Feet of Jesus,’” she says. The group’s goal was to put their faith into action and provide for people’s physical needs—and, in the process, develop relationships with them and pour hope into their lives.

LaKesha didn’t anticipate the trip also laying the foundation for a project of her own when she returned home to Shelby County. But after a few days of serving in Los Angeles, she realized the

concept could be applied easily to any area where homelessness is prevalent, including Birmingham.

When she started making plans for her local ministry, she knew what its name would be: Hands and Feet of Jesus. The group–now comprised of about 30 volunteers, including LaKesha’s aunt, Wanda Naylor–achieved non-profit status in April.

In addition to collecting materials and monetary donations, LaKesha and her volunteer team travel to public places in the downtown Birmingham area on the fourth Saturday of every month and give out 100-150 prepackaged bags of toiletries–soap, hand sanitizer, deodorant, lotion and other essentials– plus clothing, bath towels and non-perishable foods. Volunteer and hair stylist Cecilia Glass even offered free haircuts one Saturday.

The group also supports individuals in both Shelby and Jefferson counties in emergency situations, such as sudden job loss or financial hardship. “We go downtown because you’re never ShelbyLiving.com

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LaKesha Williamson, third from left, operates the Hands and Feet of Jesus ministry with the help of volunteers, who assist her with assembling bags of toiletries for the homeless.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED Donations can be made at paypal.me/ handsandfeetministry.

To see updates and current needs from the Hands and Feet of Jesus team, follow @handsandfeetministry on Facebook.

For more information about volunteering or donating to the ministry, contact LaKesha Williamson at handsandfeetofjesusministry8@gmail.com.

62 September/October 2019

going to go downtown and not see homeless connect with at least one person every time we go. people,” she says. “Most of our needs here in Shelby We’re there to develop relationships.”

Every person LaKesha and her volunteers meet County are people who have lost a job or are financially struggling. We do serve a lot of people has a different story. Some struggle with drug who live somewhere, but are barely making it to abuse, while others cope with mental illness. “It’s depressing sometimes. You want so much better their next check.” for people,” LaKesha People can donate says, adding the funds or items from the group’s goal is to “help, preceding list to the encourage and pray for ministry. “Right now, them.” everything we do is Hands and Feet of based on donations,” Jesus has served more LaKesha says. “We than 100 people every accept whatever people month since its can give.” People can founding with also just donate their donations alone. time. The group meets - LaKesha Williamson Private and corporate at a storage unit in donors have Calera to sort and bag items once a month in preparation for the delivery contributed generously and consistently to the days, which are the fourth Saturday of every month organization, and volunteers have served faithfully from 8:30 a.m. to noon. LaKesha and the other alongside LaKesha to carry out the ministry she volunteers also make an effort to talk to and listen prayed would be successful in the area. “It has to those who come by their tables. “We encourage been rewarding,” she says. “I never expected God volunteers to talk to people. I want everybody to to do what he has done in just these five months.”

“

I want everybody to connect with at least one person every time we go. We’re there to develop relationships.

”

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#YouBelongHere ShelbyLiving.com

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Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

SEPTEMBER 2019 BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

SPONSORS The Shelby County Chamber is planning to host an inaugural “Connect 2 Careers� event on September 11th and 12th at the Shelby County Exhibition Center. The purpose of this event is to share local careers with Shelby County students better informing them about the intricacies of each career available to them in Shelby County and truly connecting careers to our students with this interactive approach! The expo will be a fun, educational, hands-on experience for all 10th graders in-county.

Students will be given the opportunity become familiar with a broad range of high demand, high wage, career opportunities available in the area. A leading purpose of this expo is to create awareness while addressing workforce have met collectively with about exciting career options needs in the region. At the 2,000+ 10th grade students. among students and educators conclusion of the event we will During their time at Connect 2

Careers each student will spend 30 minutes in each cluster arena (clusters include: Public Services and Healthcare, Manufacturing and Logistics, and Professional Services and I.T.). The students will approach each booth for a hands on experience with each career pathway.

For more information and to learn how your organization can get involved contact Pari Barzegari by email at pari@ shelbychamber.org or by phone at 205-663-4542, Ext. 106.

ShelbyLiving.com 65 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

Chamber Hosting Inaugural Connect 2 Careers Event

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

Newsletter

CELEBRATING GROWTH

OFCworkscapes, Inc. - Pelham; ofcworkscapes.com; 205-492-9937

Kidz Town, LLC - Calera; kidztown35040.com; 205-531-3340

Edward Jones Investments - Lellwyn Griffin - Pelham; edwardjones.com/lellwyn-griffin; 205-871-8899

EXIT Magic City Realty - Pelham; exitmagiccityrealty.com ; 205-506-0714.

Lee Branch Dental Studio — 280 Corridor; leebranchstudio.com; 205-678-0871

Enterprise Car Sales — Pelham; enterprisecarsales.com; 205-621-1343

Pelham Ridge Eye Care — Pelham; pelhamridgeeyecare.com; 205-624-2015

DSLD Land Management AquaScapes 280 Corridor; dsldland.com; 205-437-1012

66 September/October 2019 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

WORKING ON YOUR HEALTH:

Simple Ways to Take Charge of Your Health and Well-Being phone, stand up. If able, not only stand but do calf raises, chair squats, lunges or leg lifts while you are at it.

Most of us know that eating Set an alarm on your healthy and moving more is cellphone to take a 30 or 60 recommended by healthcare second movement break each professionals for a healthier hour. Do pushups, a plank, life. We’ve heard it time and crunches, or grab a pair of again and even sometimes handweights under your desk engage in those healthy behaviors. Awareness is not overhaul to do so; it just takes Don’t be afraid to use your and perform bicep curls, the issue; it’s the application to some strategy and shift in Crockpot, Instant Pot, and overhead press, deltoid raises, make-ahead freezer meals to or tricep kickbacks. everyday life that has us perspective. Walk during your lunch or stalling out. It’s not so much Since most of us will spend a save yourself time and effort. Eat every two to three breaks to improve oxygen that we don’t want to, it’s just… third of our lives at work, let’s how and when? focus on what simple things hours to keep your blood sugar uptake and circulation and Life will never slow down we can do to be healthier levels stable and prevent the increase alertness. Stretch each hour that you enough to allow us to neatly where we spend most of our mid-morning and afternoon Hamstring stretches, blahs. Aim to incorporate sit. merge in with a well-balanced time. protein, fat, and carbs into shoulder rolls, lateral bends, diet, an hour of cardio, each snack to feel the most and chest openers can be strength training and EATING HEALTHY: stretching, seven hours of By planning your snacks and satisfied. Pass on the caffeine performed while sitting at sleep, and self-care on the meals for work instead of after your morning cup of your desk.

Look for unique ways to schedule every day if we don’t going out every day, you can coffee and drink water the rest become a bit more aggressive save money and better control of the day to stay hydrated and carve out time in your with getting in there and what is going into your body. energized (yes, water actually workday, sneak in healthy getting it done. It’s up to each Here are some simple ways to energizes us more than behaviors while getting work done, and remove obstacles caffeine!) of us individually to take a incorporate this: and barriers (and good look at our daily Keep healthy, portiontemptations!) everyday. Soon MOVING MORE: schedules and habits and find controlled snacks at the office.

Here are few ideas to sneak you’ll find the challenge fun opportunities to merge healthy Snack bags of trail mix, granola behaviors into the busy, right- bars, 100-calorie nut and seed movement into your workday and won’t even notice how sacrificing easy it can be, but you’ll here, right-now messiness of packs, fruit, Greek yogurt, without definitely start noticing the life. oatmeal, and string cheese are productivity: With all that water you’ll health benefits adding up.

Living well takes thought, easy to keep and nutritious. planning, and tenacity no Plan and prep your week’s be drinking, making trips to Neika Nix Morgan is a matter what. Setting goals and menu each weekend. Keep it the restroom will be a specialist/health planned wellness getting inspired is the easy fun and full of variety so you conveniently part, it is the staying at it when look forward to eating what movement break. Add more educator for St. Vincent’s “life” cuts over in front of us you bring instead of being steps and intensity by taking Health System and also serves that proves challenging. The tempted to order out. Some the stairs to a restroom on as faculty clinical instructor good news is that it is not great sites to find easy recipes another floor each time if you for the Human Performance Exercise Department at The impossible to live healthier include Kraft.com, Allrecipes. can. When you talk on the University of Alabama. nor does it require a life com, and Foodnetwork.com.

NEIKA NIX MORGAN, M.A.

2019 PRESENTING SPONSOR

Newsletter

ShelbyLiving.com 67 Shelbychamber.org

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

Newsletter

Ambassador of the Month Congratulations to Rhett McCreight for earning Ambassador of the Month.

Rhett is an account executive with the Shelby County Reporter, Helena Reporter, Pelham Reporter, Alabaster Reporter, 280 Reporter, Homewood Life, Mountain Brook Magazine, Vestavia Hills Magazine, Hoover’s Magazine and Shelby Living Magazine.

He proudly serves on The Arc of Shelby County and YMCA PRIZE SPONSORS: Pelham Boards.

He was born and raised in Alexander City and attended Jacksonville State University.

In his free time, Rhett enjoys helping non-profits, playing racquetball and hanging out with his wife Jessica and son Brooks.

Contact Rhett at 663-3131 or rhett.mccreight@ shelbycountyreporter.com for any of the above mentioned advertising opportunities in publications.

Exercise After Hours Set for September 17 Join other professionals for networking, health focused learning and ways to improve your overall health at the Exercise After Hours hosted by the Chelsea Community Center and presented by the Chelsea

68 September/October 2019 Shelbychamber.org

Business Alliance and The Shelby County Chamber.

Come dressed in workout attire and be ready to join in the fun. To RSVP contact Pari Barzegari at pari@ shelbychamber.org or register online no later than September 15.

TSCC Board of Directors (as of 8/12/19)

OFFICERS Chamber Chair Mr. Bill Connor America’s First Federal Credit Union Chair-Elect Ms. Kathy Copeland White Rock Quarries–Vincent Hills Vice Chair, Business Development & Support Dr. Jay Crisman 280 Animal Medical Center Vice Chair, Communications & Marketing Ms. Katie McDowell Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Vice Chair, Community & Career Development Ms. Carol Bruser University of Montevallo Vice Chair, Finance & Administration Mr. Chris Grace Barge Design Solutions, Inc. Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs Mr. Brian Massey St. Vincent’s Health System Vice Chair, Investor Relations Ms. Alison Howell Steineker Alabama Power Company Vice Chair, Tourism & Recreation Mr. Alex Dudchock Shelby County Immediate Past Chairs Ms. Jacqueline Gardner St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Mr. Joe Meads Sain Associates DIRECTORS Mr. Cris Cano Alabama Power Company Mr. Stephen Dawkins Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Mr. Jay Dennis Regions Bank Mr. Lee Dorrill Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Ms. Kelly Thrasher Fox Hand Arendall, Harrison, Sale LLC Mr. Charles Hall Grandview Medical Center Ms. Leisha Harris Grandview Medical Center

Mr. Bill Keller Renasant Bank Mr. Bruce King Lhoist North America Mr. Daniel Listi Shelby Baptist Medical Center Mr. Kevin Morris America’s First Federal Credit Union Mr. Carl Orso Renasant Bank Mr. Mitt Schroeder Central State Bank Mr. Tim Benefield Buffalo Rock Company Ms. April Harry Warren, Averett, LLC Mr. Jeff McDowell McDowell Security Services, LLC Mr. Keith Richards Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe Mike Swinson Spire Alabama, Inc. Ms. Mechelle Wilder ARC Realty Mr. Paul Barber Valent Group Mr. Matthew Hogan Bama Budweiser of Shelby County Ms. Brittani Morris State Farm Insurance - Brittani Morris Agency Mr. Casey Morris McLeod Software Mr. Fred Smith Vulcan Termite & Pest Control Dr. Scott Coefield (*) Pelham City Schools Ms. Bridgette Jordan Smith (*) City of Vincent Ms. Debbie Parrott (*) iBERIA Bank Mr. Jeff Purvis (*) A. C. Legg, Inc. Ms. Diane Thomas (*) PostNet of Chelsea

(*) Serving a one-year term in 2019

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

TEE IT UP “FORE!” EDUCATION Scramble Set for September 19 The Shelby County 2019 PRESENTING SPONSOR Chamber’s 30th Annual TEE IT UP “FORE!” Education Tournament, presented in 2019 by America’s First Federal Credit Union, will be held, September 19 at year’s tournament proceeds Timberline Golf Club. This will benefit both Chamber’s

scholarships and career readiness initiatives in the coming year.

There are still multiple opportunities to get involved!

If your organization is interested in having a team, player or participating

through the various sponsorships that are available, please contact the Chamber at 663-4542 or visit www.shelbychamber.org/ events for more details.

Chamber Hosts “Annual Safety Awards” at September Community Luncheon 2019 PRESENTING SPONSOR

individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence in public safety by presenting them with an award.

This program is an opportunity for us to personally give thanks to the fire, police and sheriff personnel, and honor them for the outstanding service and sacrifices they make each day in keeping our respective communities a safe place to live, work, and play.

The luncheon will be held from 11:00AM until 1:00PM on

Wednesday, September 25 at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena, 500 Amphitheater Drive, Pelham. Reservations requested by noon on Monday, September 23. Investment: Chamber investors $20, “Future” investors $30.

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

KEEPING IT REAL:

Volunteers Needed to Assist 9th Grade Students at “Keeping It Real” Program

The Chamber is launching its 7th year of “Keeping It Real” in September. This program teaches 9th grade students about “real world” life choices by having them choose a random “life scenario” which includes marital/family status, education, job and salary. They learn how fast money can be spent just on basic necessities.

2019 PRESENTING SPONSOR

It’s been an eye opening experience for the past few years for the 9th graders and volunteers alike!

Volunteers are asked to spend a half or whole day at the

school. We will visit all the different schools in Shelby County and will need volunteers to assist us at each school.

Volunteers would manage a station and assist 9th grade students as they “pay bills” and make “life choices” based on the randomly drawn life situations. If you or your colleagues, are interested in

being a volunteer, please call Pari Barzegari at 663-4542 ext.

106, email at pari@ shelbychamber.org or sign up online at www.shelbychamber. org. Volunteers would arrive at the schools as early as 7:30AM and the program would conclude by 3:00PM. Lunch will be provided for all volunteers.

ShelbyLiving.com 69 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

Join us on Wednesday, September 25 for the “Annual Safety Awards” Community Luncheon, presented by Alabama Power, co-hosted The UPS Store at Caldwell Mill Road and Turner Promotions, as we honor public safety officials from throughout Shelby County. Each year we are privileged to recognize

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New Investors

Newsletter

(as of June 29, 2019 - July 29, 2019)

Member Name Sterrett - Vandiver Water System, Inc. Acton Family Dentistry Kidz Town LLC EXIT Magic City Realty Arrow Air Systems, LLC Dunn Building Company, LLC Mikey’s at Fox Valley RADERMcCARY, INC SuperiorScape, Inc. Blue Water Park LLC Enterprise Car Sales

Categories Utility Companies Dental Recreational Activities Real Estate HVAC Steel Fabricators Restaurants General Contractor Landscaping/ Vegetation Control Recreation Automobile Dealers

City Sterrett Hoover Calera Birmingham Pelham Birmingham Maylene Birmingham Westover Vestavia Pelham

For a complete listing of all current Chamber investors please visit our Online Business Directory at business.shelbychamber.org/list.

70 September/October 2019 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

STATE OF OUR SCHOOLS

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Join the Chamber for Coffee with the Mayor of Westover

Shelby County’s premier business networking event — co-sponsored by Graham and Associates, CPAs and FastSigns ñ will be held at Bertolone’s Italian of Calera.

Bring plenty of business cards and ready to make some serious business contacts. Plus, if you meet enough people you’ll earn a chance to win some prizes on September 26 from 5:30PM until 7:00PM at Bertolone’s. The investment — which includes hors d’oeuvres and two beverage coupons -for any Chamber investor is $10 per person and $20 for “Future” investors.

Be sure to mark your PRESENTING SPONSOR: calendar for September 10 and plan to join us at ServProWestover from 8:30AM until 9:30AM for coffee with Larry Riggins, Mayor of Westover.

The morning meeting, presented by Knowles Realty and co-sponsored by Shelby County Reporter, is designed for the community to enjoy networking, coffee and a city update — all before heading to the office.

There is no cost to attend however reservations are requested by noon on September 9 to assist in by phone at 663-4542 or register online at www. preparation.

Please contact the Chamber shelbychamber.org.

September 26 Business After Hours at Bertolone’s Italian of Calera CO-SPONSORS:

Reservations are required, so please register via email at info@shelbychamber.org, by phone at 663-4542 or online at www.shelbychamber.org by noon on Tuesday, September 24.

ShelbyLiving.com 71 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

Shelby County’s four public school superintendents gathered to speak about the upcoming school year at the Chamber’s July “Community Luncheon”. (From Right: Dr. Wayne Vickers — Alabaster City Schools, Dr. Kathy Murphy — Hoover City Schools, Dr. Scott Coefield — Pelham City Schools, Dr. Lewis Brooks — Shelby County Schools)

CHAMBER Events

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

Read more details or register for events online at www.shelbychamber.org or the Chamber office 663-4542. Unless otherwise noted events listed will be held at 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham 35124. CANCELLATION POLICY REMINDER: Cancellation for a paying event must be made TWO days prior to the event.

September 2019

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Career Readiness Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM The Shelby County Chamber Ambassador Work Group 11:30AM - 1:00PM Chelsea Community Center

Newsletter

Small Business Work Group 4:00PM-5:00PM The Shelby County Chamber Chamber Connections Luncheon First Baptist Church of Columbiana Investment: Investors $15 and Future Investors $25.

Reservations appreciated to assist in preparation.

Tourism and Recreation Work Group 9:00AM - 10:00AM Locations Vary Coffee with the Mayor of Westover 8:30AM - 9:30AM Servpro - Westover Existing Business and Industry Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Iberia Bank of Pelham

Connect 2 Careers Shelby County Exhibition Center

Governmental Affairs Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Sain Associates

Health Services Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Exercise After Hours 4:30PM-6:00PM Chelsea Community Center

72 September/October 2019 Shelbychamber.org

18 19 25 26 26

Montevallo Chamber Monthly Luncheon 11:30AM - 1:30PM Parnell Memorial Library, 377 Park Dr, Montevallo Investment: $12. No reservation required.

Golf FORE! Education Tournament Timberline Golf Club Community Luncheon Doors open at 11:00AM. Program 11:30AM - 1:00PM. Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena Reservations requested by noon, Monday, September 23.

Investment: $20 investors, $30 “Future” investors.

Keeping it Real at Cornerstone Christian School Business After Hours 5:30PM-7:00PM Bertolone’s Italian Calera

FOR INFORMATION ON CHAMBER WORK GROUPS AND HOW TO GET INVOLVED VISIT SHELBYCHAMBER.ORG OR EMAIL INFO@SHELBYCHAMBER.ORG

YOUR CHAMBER AT WORK (July 3, 2019 - July 30, 2019)

Facebook: 32 “new likes”, 197 “views”, 8,613 “post reaches” and 3,509 “total likes”.

Twitter: 9 “tweets”, 2,421 “tweet impressions”, 47 “profile visits”, 7 “mentions” 3,078 “followers”, Instagram: 1,214 “posts”, 1,031 “followers”.

LinkedIn: 391 “followers”, 46 “page views” Responded to 94 requests for business & community information.

Notarized 8 documents for Shelby County Companies

OUT & ABOUT

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HELENA MARKET DAYS KICKOFF PHOTOS BY GRAHAM BROOKS

Helena Market Days returned for the 10th year on June 1, with a kickoff at the Helena Amphitheater featuring a chef demonstration from Chris Hastings, performances by OTM music students and plenty of farmers and vendors.

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Jason and Cheyenne Luther

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Beau Mcmichael

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Macey Martin, Holly Hamaker and Abby Berish

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Alexis Browne, Emma Bjornstad, Charlie McKinney and Kate Hawes

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Emi Reed and Payton Reed

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Connor Herring and Gavin Foster

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OTM Music student

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Susan Lambert

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OUT & ABOUT

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ALABASTER CITYFEST

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PHOTOS BY NEAL WAGNER

Tens of thousands of locals descended on the campus of the new Thompson High School on June 1, as the city held its annual CityFest celebration featuring plenty of live music and events for the whole family.

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Jim and Billie Wilson

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Ana Gilleylen and Jaelyn Gilleylen

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Jackson IV, Jackson and Marie Martin

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Anitra and King Hall

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Paige and Bill Davis

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Linda and Tony Nelson

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Frank Webner and Bunnie Sears

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Meagan McCayna and Theresa Smith

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Nora and Rick Ellis

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10. Brittani and Skylar Shelton

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NOV 2-3 the preserve, hoover WWW.MOSSROCKFESTIVAL.COM Feathers by Sarah Conklin

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14th ANNUAL SPONSORS WATERFALL: Shelby Living • Starnes Media • This is Alabama RIVER: Alabama Power • Bell Media Birmingham Magazine • Joe Piper • USS Real Estate VILLAGE GREEN: Avadian Credit Union • Bare Naked Noodles • City of Hoover Coca Cola United • Event Rentals Unlimited • Jaguar + Land Rover Bham Pursell Farms Resort • RealtySouth SPOTLIGHT PARTNERS: AARP Ala • CartoTracks • Golden Flake Snack Foods Hoover’s Magazine • Jefferson Credit Union • LeafFilter North of AL Mountain High Outfitters • Royal Cup • Saiia • Sprouts Farmers Market

ShelbyLiving.com

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OUT & ABOUT

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SCBOE COMMUNITY COOKOUT

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PHOTOS BY EMILY SPARACINO

Shelby County Schools invited its community partners to an appreciation cookout at the Central Office in June.

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Emily Littrell, Shelley Davis, Jennifer Cofer, Jamie Epperson, Susan Goodwin, Mike Jones, Melissa Youngblood and Cindy Warner

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Angela Myrick and Courtney Hardy

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Maribeth Bowman, Myshael Thompson and Lacey Brackner

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Kelly Campbell, Greg Lancaster and Nathan Kendrick

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Lt. Jeff Bowers, Chief Lamar Vick and Mayor Stancil Handley

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Lindsay Brand, Amy Goodwin, Jan McClaney, Evelyn Kuuan and Amy DeWeese

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Malori King, Mary Cooper and Brent Tolbert

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25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION PHOTOS BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

Shelby Baptist Medical Center on July 12, celebrated the 25th anniversary of offering women’s services. Guests included Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon; Debbie Lee, the first woman to give birth at the hospital; and Jarrett Lee, the first baby born at Shelby Baptist.

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Sharon Hayes, Lashawnda Wiley, Jessica O’Daniel and Rudy Sandel

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Young Miss Peach Lexie Deavers, Miss Peach Marybeth Porter, Little Miss Peach Ryleigh Green and Junior Miss Peach Sophie Porter

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Mary Mueller and Rachelle O’Neal

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Susan Bria and Donna Smelcer

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Cindy Solomon and Jill Tomassetti

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CHELSEA GRADUATION

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PHOTOS BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

Chelsea High School’s 2019 commencement ceremony was held on May 21 at Samford University.

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Gaston Pharr, Conner Thomas, Cameron Pierce, Ethan Shaw and Wayne Kenneth Trucks

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Ryan Livingston, Nathan Rizzo and Gracie Livingston

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Lia McAnally, Alexis McAdory, Caleb Matzer, Danya Martinez and Georgie Horne

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Douglas Wood and Reggie Fisher

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Chloe Eidson and Logan Dodson

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Ciera Woods, Wendy Torres and Macy Wise

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Alex Wyatt and Emma Zaiontz

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Sara Swee, Matthew Tyson and Macy Wise

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Josie Thomas, Regie Lagman and Haley Clemons

10. Liam Wright, Ben Barrett and Britney Comans 11. Connor Griffin, Claire Guillen, Riley Conolley and Julia Ferlisi 12. Lando Nichols, Robert Marquet, Addison Marimberga, Fatima Maldonado and Nyles Macon 13. Ryan Livingston, Joseph Marlow, Vick Lindsey, Jonathan Lin and Nyles Macon 14. Krissy Cates, Lindsey Bergert and Kali McIntire 15. Perry Lawley and Nathan Rizzo 16. Taylor Stafford, Olivia Haskin, Breanna Jones, Rachel Turner, Skyler Poling, Andrew Lord and Regie Lagman 78 September/October 2019

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SHELBY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

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PHOTOS BY EMILY SPARACINO

Shelby County High School’s Class of 2019 graduated on May 21, at the McChesney Student Activity Center on the University of Montevallo campus.

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Tess Parker, Madison Purcell, Katelyn Lucas and Jesse Allen

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Will Roberts, Sabrina Vickery, Jasmine Carrillo, Jordan Pugh and Ethan Stevens

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Brooke Vanderslice and Briana Tarwater

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Tyler Brasher and Michael Smith

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Josh Vanorden and Travis Reynolds

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Gaylon Beasley and Gracie Driskell

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Billy Fryer, Frederic Bonnie, McKinley Morris and Saul Saucedo

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McKenzie Callahan, Justin Lineberry and Lakelyn Bentley

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OUT & ABOUT

SHELBY COUNTY CHAMBER CONNECTIONS LUNCHEON

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PHOTOS BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

The Shelby County Chamber held its Connections Luncheon on July 11, at Columbiana First Baptist Church.

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Khiari McAlpin, Bill Connor, Brittani Morris and Rob Gerchow

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Brenda Sands and Mike Dryden

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Larry Riggins, Charlene Tucker and Don Greene

November 2-3 | The Preserve | Hoover, Alabama 65+ Brews | Cask Garden | Beer Snacks | Fall Football | Wooded Venue | Music Advance tickets get Featured Glass | $30 | www.mossrockfestival.com

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OUT & ABOUT

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SPAIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

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PHOTOS BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

Spain Park High School held its 2019 commencement ceremony on May 22, at Samford University’s Pete Hanna Center.

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Ahrielle Parks, Kelsey Hargrove, Shak Hogan, Kaleb England, Ja’cory Robinson, Makayla Hay, India Johnson and Jada King

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Ella Dreaden and Laura Katherine Cate

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Austin Laatsch, Kang Min Kim and Kyle Habovick

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Kathleen Gasser and Shreya Grandhi

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Allison Pendleton and Zac Shaw

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Ashley Williams, Ryan Dugger and Josh Nonnengard

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Kenyon Hines and Demillin Simms

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Kristen Hopkins and Catherine Della Manna

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EJ Moses and Josh Mullins

10. Austin Laatsch, Loran KingWilliams and Alyssa Mackinaw

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OUT & ABOUT

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FILM CENTER + CINEMA

COMING SOON FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

MAKEMOVIEMAGIC.COM

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OUT & ABOUT

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PALOOZA IN THE PARK

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PHOTOS BY BRIANA H. WILSON

Families from near and far were at Pelham City Park on May 18, for Palooza in the Park, the fifth installment of Pelham Palooza. The event featured fun for the whole family with a variety of crafts, food vendors, food trucks and a children’s area called Kidzapalooza.

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Sarah and Jay Leach

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Brandon and Harlan Gregory

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Christine and Frank Duffy

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Jody Mar, Debbie Mar, Pippa Gaiser and Willow Mar

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Robbie Lewis and Nathan Medders

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Erin and Everett Labrato

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Ben Jennings, Max, Madeline Huys and Lindsey Upchurch

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Joy Chaio

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Tracie Bayliss and Keith Browder

10. Jeremiah, Jody, Naomi, Anna, Timothy and Ryan Dix

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OUT & ABOUT

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LIBERTY DAY BBQ PHOTOS BY EMILY SPARACINO

Dozens of local seniors kicked off Columbiana’s 2019 Liberty Day festivities at the Columbiana Senior Center’s fourth annual Liberty Day BBQ on June 28.

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Marilyn Guyer, Locia Jones, Carolyn Mundy and Jack Mundy

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Brenda Holcombe, Barbara Youngblood, Bunny Benson and Ali Payne

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Sherry Hunt, Carol Seale, Bonnie Atchison and Kay Combs

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Pat Jones with Sandra and Lynn Merrell

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MARKETPLACE

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Need appliance or air conditioner parts? How about a water filter for your refrigerator? We have it all at A-1 Appliance Parts!

Call 1-800-841-0312 www.A-1Appliance.com American Auctioneers, LLC 1-866-789-5169 american-auctioneers. com Call us for your auctions needs!! •Land/ Acreage•Estates •Residential/Commercial Real Estate•Business Liquidations• Construction Farm Equipment •Lake/ Recreational Properties INDUSTRIAL ATHLETES $17.68 hour + production & safety $$$ incentives.

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APPLY AT WWW. AGSOUTH.COM/JOBS Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted.

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Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred.

Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007 Bent Creek Apartments.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom. On-site Manager. On-site Maintenance. 3001 7th Street. North Clanton, AL 35045. TDD#s: 800-5482547(V) 800-548-2546(T/A) bentcreek@morrowapts. com Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm.

Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer Boise Cascade Now Hiring for Utility Positions.

Starting pay $13.33/hour.

Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at www.bc.com Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers. Over-the-road positions available. Dry vans. No hazmat. Must

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have one year over-theroad. Experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus package.

Good home time.

Call 800-633-9710 ext. 2 DCH Health System Caring. For Life. $5,000 *Sign-on Bonus for full time RNs *For More Info Contact Annie.Miller@ dchsystem.com.

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•CDL DRIVERS •ASPHALT EQUIPMENT OPERATORS Apply Online Today! www. dunnconstruction.com •Bright Future•Great Pay• •Unheard of Benefits• HOME EVERY DAY! #DunnTheRightWay EOE/ Minorities/Females/ Disabled/Veterans $2000 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.

person: 146 Tommie Drive, Thorsby.

Mon-Fri. 10am-3pm.

Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Hiring: Homeownership Lease-Purchase Facilitator Resident Services Coordinator-ROSS Human Resources Specialist Compliance Data Analysis Application Data Entry Clerk Assistant Vice President of Housing Operations Director of Public Safety Custodian View complete description and apply at www.habd.org or 1826 3rdAvenueSouth Birmingham, Al 35233 NOW AVAILABLE LPN’s, RN’s 12 HOUR SHIFTS CNA’s Full-time & part-time Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Center Drive Clanton, AL 35045 Helping Hands Estate Sales Serving clients over 7yrs Professional & Experienced We can help sell the contents of your home! Contact for information: 256-283-5549 tbob56.wixsite.com/ helping-hands

Now Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators and CDL Drivers Competitive pay and benefits. Pre-employment drug test required Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Call: 205-2986799 or email us at: jtate@forestryenv.com

Industrial Coatings Group, Inc. is hiring experienced -Sandblasters -Industrial Painters Helpers. Must be able to pass drug test and e-verify check. Must be willing to travel. Professional references required.

Please send resume to: icgsecretary@hotmail.com or call (205)688-9004

Franklin Iron Works Now Hiring. Grinders & Laborers. Must apply in

SHEETMETAL & MANUFACTURING HELP WANTED •Sheetmetal/

Layout, •Manufacturing Helpers, •Sheetmetal Machinery Operators, Multiple positions Paid holidays, typical shifts are 6:00am-2:30pm Must be reliable & on-time Call RICK: 205-761-3975 Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com Need FREE help with your Medicare? Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) today at (800)AGE-LINE (800)-243-5463.

Now Hiring!! •CaregiversADL’s, assist with medications and some lifting 7am-3pm, 3pm11pm, 11pm-7pm •Activity Director Part-Time •Cookssome 12/hr shifts Call Shay McNeal 205-620-2905 Marble Valley Manor.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga.

256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-5482546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer Are you a motivated professional? Are you looking for a dynamic career? Are you ready to control your own level of success? See why McKinnons’ is an exciting place to work and grow. Now accepting applications for Sales, Service, and Detail Shop.

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MARKETPLACE Shake up your career!!!

Are you looking for something new and FUN? Milo’s is always looking for great managers to come join our growing and dynamic team. Apply online at miloshamburgers. com 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 Oxford Healthcare in Montgomery currently hiring certified CNA’s and/ or Home Health aides in the Clanton, Marbury and Maplesville areas. Must be able to pass complete background check, have reliable transportation and have a strong work ethic. Serious inquiries only. Call 334-409-0035 or apply on-line at www.

Oxfordhealthcare.com Looking for a house to rent in Shelby County?

We can help. Call for available rentals and specials (205)433-9811 Southeastern Food Merchandisers NOW HIRING Class-A CDL Food Service Delivery Drivers with 1 year experience!!!

Pay & Benefits •Home daily •Schedules allow you to depart and return to same terminal daily •Dispatches are single day routes, nothing runs overnight or multi-day!

•Paid by weight delivered, miles, and stops •Drivers running single driver routes are earning $75,000$100,000 yearly! •Team and Helper routes are earning $65,000+ yearly What we offer in addition to route pay! •Attendance/ Accuracy bonuses •Wklypay w/direct deposit •401(k) w/company match, eligible after 6-months with quarterly enrollment •Blue Cross of AL health & dental insurance, company subsidized •Two different

medical plans for Blue Cross depending on your needs •Vision Insurance, company subsidized •Basic Life and AD&D 100% employer paid •Company paid Short-Term Disability •Voluntary Life & AD&D also provided on post-tax basis for you, and your family Email resume: ofrye@southeasternfood. com Call:205-685-4534

Local to Shelby, Chilton & Coosa Counties. Find us on Facebook @ General Lawn Care. Military & Senior Discounts! Call Alex Russell: 205-955-3439

CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance. I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham. Call Stephen (205)663-2822

Heritage Christian Academy is now accepting enrollment for K3-12th Grades. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity!

Call 205-978-6001, to schedule a Campus Tour!

Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, local-based company in Pelham.

Must be willing to learn & work hard. Go to: supremeelectric-al. com Print employment application under Contact Us. Mail to: Supreme Electric 231 Commerce Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-453-9327.

TaylorMade Transportation Hiring CDL Drivers for Flatbed Regional Division! BCBS Insurance After 30 Days.

To apply call: (334)3662269 or email: s.smith@ taylormadeinc.com Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

White Oak Transportation is hiring CDL-A drivers in your area. Great Pay! Excellent Benefits! Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans.com for more information EOE-M/F/D/V GENERAL LAWN CARE -Your Property Cleanup Specialist- Specializing in larger 2+ acre properties, including around ponds, fences, pastures, old home places and regular lawns. This is all we do!

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NOW-HIRING CLASS-A CDL DRIVERS IN THE BIRMINGHAM AREA •Clean driving record and drug test required •Piggyback lift exp.a plus •Benefits offered. Contact Information: april@blairblock.com 256-378-3345 HIBBETT SPORTS Conveyor Mechanic •Great Benefits •Monday, Thursday, Friday 10:00am9:00pm •Saturday 8:00am7:00pm Call: 205-912-7204 www.hibbett.com Help Wanted - full time/ part time available!

Warehouse enviroment assisting with painting, building, designing props and scenes. Visit www.phobiafactory.com to submit your application.

A Dry Waterproofing •Basement/Crawlspace Waterproofing •Install Sump Pumps •Repair Wet Basement •Mold Remediation •French Drains •Foundation Repairs *Also providing electrical work! Emergency Service 6-Days/Week Serving Jefferson/Shelby Counties Call Van:205-230-3972 F&S CONSTRUCTION “Quality work you can count on” •Decks •Windows•Painting •Siding of All Types•Baths

•Flooring•Kitchens •Foundation Specialist •And Much More!! Free Estimates!! Licensed/ Insured & 50yrs Combined Experience Call:205-641-1148 1st Heritage Credit, LLC 8919 Hwy-119, Alabaster Branch Mgr:Brook Morris 205-620-0664 “Excellence is our Standard” Loan Available: •Personal•Consolidation •Auto•Consumer Retail Call/Apply: 1stheritagecredit.com Loans are subject to normal credit criteria! $Cash Paid For Used RV’s!$ Motor Homes, Travel/Enclosed trailers, consignment welcome, Cars and Trucks, Pick up available, Mccluskey Auto and RV Sales, LLC 205-833-4575 Service Tech, Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning AL Cert #89282 NOW HIRING FULL TIME POSITIONS •Certified Technician with 5 years Experience •Office Assistant with 5 years Quickbooks Experience Apply at: www.servicetechhvac.com WASTE PRO IS NOW HIRING CDL DRIVERS & MECHANICS Go online to WWW.WASTEPROUSA. COM to fill out an application today!

8:30am-2:00pm at: 2653 Ruffner Road Birmingham, AL 35210. 205-956-2866 or craig@insulators78. org Applicants must be 18+ and furnish proof of age. High school diploma/GED & reliable transportation required.

Applicants will be required to take a simple math test and an English comprehension test. The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee is registered with the Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship Training and is an equal opportunity employer.”

Manager Language Services (MedicalInterpreter) •BS Degree Healthcare Management, 3yrs exp in medical interpreting/translating healthcare/pediatric setting •Medical Interpreter Certification or ability to become certified •Bilingual(English-Spanish) Children’s of Alabama Position located in Birmingham, AL Contact: Allison.Sizemore@ childrensal.org HOME REPAIR/ REMODELING SST Properties, INC. Home Repair & Remodeling.

Licensed & Insured!

Call: 205-808-2482

HVAC Company with 43 years in business NOW HIRING HELPER AND/OR TECH Will train! Drug test required. Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm.

Call 205-663-2199

Small Engine Technician Full-Time Must have knowledge of: -Lawn Mowers -Pressure Washers -Chainsaws -2-Cycle/4Cycle Weed Eaters MUST BE DEPENDABLE! Call: (205)281-0565 Email: qtr@mindspring.com

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HEAT & FROST INSULATORS & ALLIED WORKERS BIRMINGHAM AREA HEAT & FROST INSULATORS LOCAL 78 Accepting applications for a 4-year Apprenticeship Program. Applications accepted in person July 1-July 31, Monday-Friday

DREAMER’S SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY GRAND OPENING SEPTEMBER 2019 NOW ENROLLING NEW STUDENTS! Now Hiring: •Secretary with Computer Skills •Licensed Cosmetology Instructor -Serious Inquiries Only844 Highway 31, Suite E Alabaster, AL 35007 Call 205-624-4676

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WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY

Shiann Harper

2020 Miss Shelby County PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Shiann Harper embraces hard work.

She thrives on it. She is majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry at UAB, with a pre-dental concentration, and her post-graduation plans not surprisingly include applying to dental school. When she’s not studying, she’s likely working on her social impact initiative. We talked to Shiann about being crowned the new Miss Shelby County—and about a few of her favorite things, too.

What pageants and programs have you been involved in over the years?

I have done Miss Shelby County, and this is my sixth year at Miss Alabama. In 2016 and 2017, I made the top 12; in 2017 and 2018, I received Miss Congeniality; in 2019, I received the preliminary evening gown and social impact initiative award; and most recently, I received honorable mention for my social impact initiative.

What have you gained from these experiences?

I started this program because I knew I was going to have to find a way to pay for my college education on my own. I knew scholarships from the Miss America Organization would help me tremendously, and they did; I’m about to graduate from UAB debt-free. Also, I didn’t have a talent before this, so now I love to dance. I’m healthier because of this organization. It influences me to go to the gym and make those efforts to keep personal fitness at the forefront of my life. I think it’s really cool that I get to surround myself with more than 50 girls every year. It has allowed to meet people from different backgrounds, different families and different parts of the state.

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Who are your role models?

I want to keep my goals in mind, so I try to think of myself as my own role model and where I see myself in five or 10 years. My mom is obviously a huge influence in my life, and my family. They’ve always been a huge part of where I come from and how I was raised.

diversity. Regardless of your situation, you are unique and special to the world.

What influence do you want to have on young girls who look up to you?

I hope to make people comfortable in their own skin because I know in today’s society it’s so easy to get consumed with social media posts and celebrities. We’re surrounded by these models and people telling you that you need to be this way. We need to celebrate all shapes and sizes and

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would go to Greece. I’ve always loved the white buildings and the ocean.

What are your goals after graduation?

Hopefully, I’ll be going to dental school somewhere. My teeth were awful when I was a child. I looked forward to going to the dentist so they could fix the problem I had.

Some people are afraid of going to the What are your goals as Miss Shelby dentist, but I want to make the dentist a warm and welcoming environment that I County?

My main goal is to connect with whoever always felt, rather than a judgmental place.

I can through appearances, social media posts and through sponsorships we’ve What’s your idea of a perfect weekend?

I really love concerts. I’m always trying to received through the community. My social go see my favorite bands. I think my favorite impact initiative for Miss Alabama is weekend is go to a concert with a friend in “Smile,” which provides toothpaste and Nashville, hang out in Nashville and go to toothbrushes to kids. It’s not just about me, it’s not just about going to Miss Alabama; the best places to eat (I’m a foodie). I love doing that and adventuring. it’s about representing the area.

What do you love about Shelby County?

I love the Oak Mountain Amphitheater. I have been there a few times for the state fair.

I love carnivals and fairs and amusement parks.

Celebrating over 60 years of serving you.

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