Shelby Living December 2016

SHELBY Living

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Fulfilling a dream Helena man hikes Appalachian Trail in 132 days

Christmas comedy SCT announces 2016 holiday show dates December 2016

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Local woman’s DIY decorating blog becomes online sensation

30 years of therapy

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FROM THE EDITOR

I

t’s hard to believe Christmas is just a few weeks away.

You could say I’ve been in the Christmas spirit for a while now. Normally, I’m a proponent of giving Thanksgiving the undivided attention it deserves and confining the Christmas season to the period of time between the day after Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. This year, though, I gave in to the urge to allow Christmas to take over my radio, my TV and sometimes my shopping trips much earlier than usual. (Hey, those gifts aren’t going to buy themselves!)

I’m sure some of you are shaking your heads at me, but hear me out. It’s not the commercialism I’m really talking about: It’s the Spirit behind it all.

When I hear “O Holy Night” on the radio, I’m reminded of my Savior Jesus Christ’s birth, the primary reason Christians celebrate Christmas. I might be having a lackluster day, but for a few moments, the bigger picture comes into focus and my perspective shifts.

As for my TV, much worse things could be coming into my living room than Hallmark Channel Christmas movies. And

honestly, like the music, these uplifting movies— however predictable and sappy they are—bring me cheer.

If you’re like me and you’ve embraced Christmas with gusto this year, read on to find out how you can further ring in the season.

If cooking is your thing, you’ll probably want to see the beautiful holiday desserts crafted by Joseph Mitchell, program director for the Culinary and Hospitality Institute at Jefferson State Community College. Your guests will love these treats!

A number of Shelby County residents have worked hard in rehearsals lately in preparation for holiday performances.

South City Theatre in Pelham will hold several performances of “Dashing Through The Snow,” a Christmas comedy, this month. Several locals involved in a men’s a cappella chorus called Voices of the South will perform in a Christmas show at the Lyric Theatre in Birmingham. And, if you do need some inspiration for gifts, check out our Holiday Gift Guide featuring items from local stores. From all of us at Shelby Living, have a blessed Christmas season and a happy New Year! l

Emily Sparacino, Editor

Emily.Sparacino@shelbycountyreporter.com ON THE COVER Alabaster resident Beth Bryan had no idea the do-it-yourself decorating blog she created years ago would become such a widely read sensation.

Cover design: Layken Rubin Photography: Dawn Harrison

SHELBY Living EDITORIAL Graham Brooks Steven Calhoun Stephen Dawkins Baker Ellis Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner CONTRIBUTORS Laura Brookhart Lindsay Dyess Dawn Harrison Amy Jones Lisa Phillips PRODUCTION Connor Bucy Jamie Dawkins Layken Rubin Clarke Stackhouse MARKETING Meagan Barton Kristy Brown Ashley Duckett Kari George Daniel Holmes Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla April Spivey Jessica Spradlin ADMINISTRATION Tim Prince Katie McDowell Mary Jo Eskridge Hailey Dolbare Stacey Meadows Shelby Living is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

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

Shelby Living is mailed to select households throughout Shelby County, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit Shelbyliving.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $20.41 for one year by visiting Shelbyliving.com, or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

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

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WHAT’S INSIDE

features 22

ENDURANCE TEST Helena’s Davis Grimes hikes Appalachian Trail in 132 days

28

FOLLOWING BETH BRYAN Woman behind Unskinny Boppy blog opens up about her rise to Internet fame

34

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Local stores offer wide variety of gifts for everyone on your list

22 December 2016 | 3

WHAT’S INSIDE

28

12

16 in every issue 5

THE SIMPLE LIFE

6

SHORT STORIES

32

WALL TO WALL

53

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

61

SHELBY SPOTTED

75

MARKETPLACE

78

OUT AND ABOUT

80

WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY

arts & culture 9

BRONZE WINNER Nelson Grice’s sculpture Storytime earns Best in Show award

22

ENDURANCE TEST Helena’s Davis Grimes hikes Appalachian Trail in 132 days

10

COLOR OF OPTIMISM Robin Metz turns to painting, clay art through life’s challenges

28

48

VOICES OF THE SOUTH A cappella chorus gearing up for Christmas show at Lyric Theatre

FOLLOWING BETH BRYAN Woman behind Unskinny Boppy blog opens up about her rise to Internet fame

34

CHRISTMAS COMEDY SCT’s Dashing Through The Snow opens this month

RESTORATIVE RIDES Special Equestrians offers equine therapy to people with disabilities

36

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Local stores offer wide variety of gifts for everyone on your list

44

SWEETS OF THE SEASON Chef shares dessert recipes for Christmas

50

health & fitness faith 12

FLYING HIGH Bike club rides through Mt Laurel

15

THE GIFT OF RELAXATION Escape holiday stress at Spa One Nineteen

4 | ShelbyLiving.com

features

16

RENOVATING FAITH Westwood Baptist Church creates new worship spaces for kids

home 32

DECKING THE HALLS Decorator shares ideas for Christmas décor at home

THE SIMPLE LIFE

Tips to un-decorate

T

aking down all the holiday decorations may be the furthest thing from your mind, especially if you haven’t even started to hang the first strand of tinsel!

However, “what goes up, must come down,” and now’s the time to think about how you’ll repack Lisa Phillips, owner of SimpleWorks, all the stockings, wreaths and Simpleworks.guru ornaments so that next year’s lisa@simpleworks.guru decorating can be accomplished in 205.981.7733 hours versus days. uOrganize lights and wreaths. Empty paper towel rolls or pieces of cardboard work great for wrapping lights and preventing a tangled mess. Check this year for burnt out bulbs and broken strands. Pitch or replace now. Slip your wreaths in garbage bags to keep the dust from settling in. Hang them versus laying them down if you have the space. Consider adding pegboard to the garage or basement for hanging your seasonal wreaths. uContainerize by theme or space. Have a plan for your storage containers. Put all the ornaments, tree topper, lights, hooks and extension cord together with the tree. Store all the mantle decorations together with the stockings and stocking holders. Label boxes by room which helps you “stage” the boxes next year when bringing them out of storage. You can easily identify the boxes that go in the hallway, kitchen, living room, etc. uTake pictures of your home when it’s decorated. While we think we’ll remember, 365 days in between decorating and putting things away can cloud our memory. Next year, by looking at the pictures, you can organize things back the way you set them up this year. If you had garland around the nativity scene, pack the garland with the nativity scene when putting it away. uDiscard and donate now. For things that are broken or cracked, toss them versus repacking them. If you find you don’t like something or the color scheme is not what you’re going with, chances are you won’t like it next year either. Don’t fall into the trap of hanging on to something because it was a gift.

You need to be honest. Consider donating it now so you don’t have to store it all year only to be faced with the same decision year after year of “what are we going to do with this?”

Once the calendar flips to 2017, everything will be put away for a long winter’s nap. It’s that simple. l

Consider adding pegboard to the garage for hanging your seasonal wreaths.

December 2016 | 5

SHORT STORIES

Arc of Shelby County elects 2017 directors The Arc of Shelby County held its annual meeting and Community Awards Banquet on Sept. 20 at the Heardmont Senior Community Center.

Members of The Arc of Shelby County elected 2017 Board Officers: President, Carol Lott; Maurice Mercer, vice-president; Danielle Rich, secretary; and Bruce Koppenhoefer, treasurer.

Five new members were also elected to the Board: Trisston Burrows, Mike Northrup, David Rickey, Scott Walden and Kimberly Young-Brinson. Seven members were also elected to an additional term.

The Arc of Shelby County also presented its 2016 Community Awards in recognition of partners and program participants. Honored at the event were: Tyler Bembry – Supported Employee of the Year; Nick Jacks, Supported Employee of the Year/Project SEARCH; Dominique McGuire (South Shelby Baptist Learning Center), Teacher of the Year; Lena Phifer and family, Early Intervention Family of the Year; Vera Taylor, Professional of the Year; Mike Wesson (Shelby Baptist Medical Center ER), Advocate of the Year; Leo McGill (Materials Management Supervisor at Shelby Baptist Medical Center), Mentor Service Award; City of Pelham, Community Partner of the Year; AmStar Cinema, Large Employer of the Year; Newk’s of Hoover, Small Employer of the Year; Cornelius Frazier, Business Leader of the Year

Holiday show to star locals For more than a dozen years, Red Mountain Theatre Company has set the stage for magic, hope, family and the spirit of giving through its annual holiday production.

More than 60 Conservatory students, from all over Shelby and Jefferson counties, come together with an all-star cast of Birmingham’s best local talent to perform heartwarming classics, such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” alongside several humorous numbers, such as “Santa Got Stuck on 280.”

Joining the three Conservatory groups—The Previews, Spotlights and Performing Ensemble—are Lonnie Parsons, Amy Johnson, Brandon McCall and Kellie Dodd, who have performed in the Birmingham area for many years.

While the 9- to 18-year-old RMTC Conservatory students serve as the backbone of the performances, Holiday Spectacular is anything but a youth

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production.

Parsons, who has participated in about six of RMTC’s holiday productions, said the student performers are top-notch, and people are often surprised by what they can do. From elaborate Rockette numbers to the iconic finale, he said the kids shine brightest in the show.

Every season features new songs and medleys, keeping the material fresh for audiences who return year after year.

This time, Parsons said he is excited to bring a little bit of his own flair to Holiday Spectacular with an Elton John-like medley.

RMTC’s Holiday Spectacular ’16 opens Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the RMTC Cabaret Theatre. Shows continue on through Dec. 18, playing Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., as well as Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $19. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit RedMountainTheatre.org.

SHORT STORIES

Year four of Keeping It Real program begins The Greater Shelby County Chamber started the fourth year of its celebrated Keeping It Real program in October at Cornerstone Christian School.

The 2016-2017 program, co-sponsored

by Central State Bank and The UPS Store, Caldwell Mill/Valleydale in Hoover, is for ninth grade students throughout Shelby County.

Between October 2016 and March 2017, the Chamber staff and volunteers from county organizations visit ninth grade students at different schools.

In October, Keeping It Real was held at Cornerstone Christian School, Kingwood Christian School, Calera High School and Oak Mountain High School.

The following is a list of upcoming program days: uMontevallo High School – Dec. 8 and Dec. 9. uShelby County High School – Jan. 12 and Jan. 13 uThompson High School – Jan. 26 and

Jan. 27 uPelham High School – Feb. 9 and Feb. 10 uVincent High School – Feb. 23 and Feb. 24 uHelena High School – March 2 and March 3 uChelsea High School – March 15 and March 16 uCoosa Valley Academy – To be determined In addition to the Keeping It Real program, the Greater Shelby Chamber also conducts several other workforce development programs including its Career Awareness Fair program for all 10th grade students throughout Shelby County and a new program on Soft Skills for 11th grade students titled Communication Matters.

The Career Awareness Fair, sponsored in 2016 by Texas Roadhouse and Shelby County Pizza (d.b.a. Domino’s) was held on Sept. 12 and Sept. 13 at the Shelby County Exhibition Center. More than 40 business

volunteers met with more than 2,000 10th grade students and provided information on the types of employment available in Shelby County, the educational requirements for those opportunities and the potential income which people in those positions can earn.

The new Communication Matters program will target soft skills (i.e. interviewing skills, résumé writing, etc.) to help 11th grade students from throughout Shelby County understand the “do’s” and “don’ts” of the workplace.

The program was piloted at three high schools in the county last year.

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SHORT STORIES

Vincent Middle High School holds Homecoming Parade On Sept. 30, Vincent had its annual Homecoming Parade.

The whole community gathered around to show their support for the Yellow Jackets.

The Vincent High School JROTC program marched in the parade, led by the Color Guard.

The Vincent Band also marched, and other Vincent Middle High school clubs and organizations rode floats in the parade along with the Homecoming Court.

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Petty Officer 1st Class Matthew Trump, top, from La Salle, Ill., performs maintenance on an antenna with Petty Officer 3rd Class Daniel Young, from Maylene, on the guidedmissile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87).

Mason, deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

The U.S. Navy photo was taken by Petty Officer 3rd Class Janweb B. Lagazo.

Bronze winner

ARTS COUNCIL CORNER

Nelson Grice’s sculpture Storytime earns Best in Show award

selecting colors for the piece and heat treatments.

The last step is waxing the piece and giving it a final polish. Storytime features a monkey dressed as a ocal artist Nelson Grice’s sculpture jester holding a small giraffe. The jester appears to be “Storytime” was recently selected Best telling the viewer a story. in Show at the 8th Annual Adult Juried Grice says that monkeys and giraffes end up being Art Show held by the Shelby County Arts Council. a common theme in his work. No matter what, Each year, the annual gallery exhibit gathers the Grice’s work is always meticulously crafted, visually best local artists the area has to offer to compete engaging and seems to have a story of its own to share. for prizes. This year over 100 pieces of artwork were submitted in categories of photography, painting, When Grice isn’t busy drawing, 3D design and multimedia. Grice took home teaching Ceramics and the top prize.

Sculpture at Hoover Since childhood, Grice always had a knack for art High School, he can be and creativity. It wasn’t until art school that Grice found in his studio creating found a love for sculpture. Earning a Bachelor of Fine new pieces. His work Art and later a Master of Art Education from the was chosen Best in University of Montevallo, Grice has been sharing his Show at the 2014 Magic passion for art with students since the mid-90s.

City Art Connection, When creating a piece, Grice looks to his multiple corporations and childhood for inspiration. museums have purchased his work for their “Childhood is a time for most of unbridled collections and imagination – whimsical dreams – multiple wonders,” says Grice. “Being a child and being free – he has even been free to dream, free to think and imagine.” featured in Ceramic Grice’s childlike imagination often shows up in his Monthly magazine. work. His sculptures and paintings are best known Grice’s work can also for their whimsical and entertaining qualities. Grice be seen in galleries such as Andre says that he also draws inspiration from childhood Kohn Fine Art toys such as Legos or Lincoln Logs and the way they in Scottsdale, are pieced together to create an object.

Ariz., and Mary He uses similar concepts when creating his sculptures. They are simply components pieced Martin Fine Art in together to create a piece of his imagination.

Charleston, S.C. and “Everything is fresh and new each time I come into Naples, Fla. the studio,” says Grice. “I bring out my parts and just “My main theme is build.” entertaining you and Grice used this concept when creating his awardentertaining those who winning piece. Storytime was truly a labor of love. view my work,” says Bronze sculpture is a labor intensive art form that can Grice. “I like to make take months to make. For Storytime, the piece was people laugh. I like the first created out of clay then a mold was made of the idea that my sculpture will sit in your house piece in order to cast it in bronze. and will entertain you for years to come.”

After the bronze is cast comes the task of cutting, Visit his website at Nelsongriceart.com grinding and polishing the piece, followed by or follow him on Instagram @griceart. l

Story by LINDSAY DYESS Photograph CONTRIBUTED

L

Nelson Grice’s bronze sculpture “Storytime” earned him the Best in Show award in the 8th Annual Adult Juried Art Show held by the Shelby County Arts Council.

December 2016 | 9

ARTS & CULTURE

Color of

optimism Robin Metz turns to painting, clay art through life’s challenges

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Story and photographs by LAURA BROOKHART

R

obin and Ted Metz live a life built around the arts, and their Montevallo home welcomes you to a gallery of the various works they create together and individually.

Many may recognize Robin as a part-time librarian at Parnell Library, but she previously worked as an illustrator for Methodist Publishing House in Nashville and with many West Coast clients as an agent-represented illustrator.

Robin’s parents, Bob and Faith Nance, also had their influence. Bob Nance, art director for Oxmoor House, passed in 2013; Faith was an illustrator and graphic designer who still paints.

When she was close to 40, Robin began having vision challenges that were ultimately diagnosed as multiple sclerosis.

Her vision, memory and balance are affected, but her creative expressions in painting and in clay have endured and brought her to the satisfyingly and productive life she shares day-today with Ted Metz, who retired this past January after 42 years teaching clay and sculpture in the University of Montevallo Art Department.

A striking recent collaboration of the couple is shown. The Turban Woman features wheel-

turned elements by Ted and hand-applied surface decoration and color by Robin.

Intricately adorned female faces adorn many of Robin’s effusively illustrated platters.

As a young mother of two daughters she began to paint faces. “And,” she adds, “I happen to love flowery hats and turbans.”

The small 8-inch-by-10-inch canvases comprise an ongoing series of colorful personalities.

They are affordable art show favorites and were recently shown at the annual Bluff Park Art Show.

The philosophy that carries Robin Nance Metz through each day?

“Fun, funny, happy,” she says. “I figure there’s too much sadness and strife in the world. I don’t feel like adding to it. I do know there are lots of artists that delve into it and that is fine—good for them that they have an outlet to allow them to contemplate the toughness of this world.

“I’ve had to look at a lot straight on—two children that left this earth before me and an unpredictable illness—and it’s easier for me to focus on the brighter things life offers,” she says.

The couple will hold an open house in their home gallery Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 26 and 27. They also show by appointment. Visit Facebook.com/robinnance.metz. l

PAGE 10: The Turban Woman is a collaborative sculpture Robin and Ted Metz created together. ABOVE LEFT: Pieces in Robin Metz’s home gallery feature vibrant colors.

ABOVE RIGHT: Robin is hard at work on one of her platters.

December 2016 | 11

HEALTH & FITNESS

Flying high Bike club rides through Mt Laurel ABOVE: Chad Scroggins, Brian Parker and Michael O’Kelley stand together representing their Mt Laurel bike club, the 41 Flyers, before starting the Austin Rattler 100K solo bike race in Austin, Texas. RIGHT: Michael O’Kelley crosses the Rattler finish line in April.

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Story by CLARKE STACKHOUSE Photographs by CONTRIBUTED and COURTESY OF CHRONOTRACK.COM

F

ull-time careers, full-time parents and part-time “adrenaline junkies” make up the members of the 41 Flyers, a Mt Laurel bicycle club that formed in 2011.

Michael O’Kelley had a part in helping the group come together and said it has been so much fun to have the camaraderie and exercise the group allows.

“We’re not so much of an organized club,” O’Kelley said. “We’re just a few dudes that get together for training rides and occasional races.”

O’Kelley said when the group was first starting

out they were able to be sponsored by two local businesses, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Cahaba Cycles. With the help of the sponsors, O’Kelley said they were able to make a few equipment upgrades and get jerseys and shorts with the team name on them.

“It was a great opportunity to have sponsors,” he said. “It happened so quickly after we formed and some of us still have those jerseys and wear them to different races.”

He said the group started with around four guys and grew to about six members at its largest.

O’Kelley said they mainly get together for early morning bike rides before work and have done a few races together.

“We all live in and around Mt Laurel and the Highway 41 corridor,” O’Kelley said. “We started calling ourselves the 41 Flyers and it just kind of stuck.”

While O’Kelley said the majority of the 41 Flyers rides are together in the early morning excursions before work, he said they have competed in a few races since forming. The most recent was the Austin Rattler 100K solo race.

O’Kelley said he and two of the other flyers, Brian Parker and Chad Scroggins, competed in the event and they plan to again next year.

“It’s been great to have this group of guys to get together and just ride,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed being able to travel to races with them and their wives and the camaraderie it brings to ride and race

together.”

Scroggins said he has ridden with the flyers the past couple of years and loves the experience it brings.

“I’ve been biking with them off and on for about three years,” he said. “We like to joke that I put in my application but never got a response back.”

Scroggins said racing in Austin was a great experience despite the challenges he faced that allowed him not to finish the race.

“The race is a 100K which is about 60 or so miles,” Scroggins said. “At about 24 miles I was involved in a multi-bike crash and ended up with a broken rib.”

Scroggins said the rib isn’t what stopped his race. He said he continued for another three miles and then had to stop due to a cut in his tire.

“I would’ve kept on going,” he said.

“It’s probably better I had to stop, but I December 2016 | 13

ABOVE: Many racers from across the country get ready to compete in the Austin Rattler 100K solo bike race.

look forward to returning next year.”

O’Kelley and Scroggins said they both like how being a part of the club helps them keep in shape.

“We’re all crossing over into our early 40s and being able to ride 15 or so miles three times a week has helped us all keep in shape pretty well,” Scroggins said.

O’Kelley said he started biking in college at Auburn when he didn’t have a car and was happy to be able to find a group of guys to ride with when he and his family moved to Mt Laurel.

“It just kind of casually happened,” he said. “We were a group that got together for the joy of riding and it’s been so much fun.”

Scroggins said he had always enjoyed mountain biking in high school growing up in Pleasant Grove and enjoys still doing the endurance races with the flyers.

“It’s a great group of guys,” Scroggins said. “We are able to meet, ride and talk about our lives, work and families. It’s become sort of like a men’s Bible study on wheels.”

As the flyers wheel into the club’s sixth year, O’Kelley, Scroggins and the rest of the flyers are looking forward to the thrills, highs and lows of endurance racing and the camaraderie and enjoyment of their early morning rides. l

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HEALTH & FITNESS

The gift of relaxation Escape holiday stress at Spa One Nineteen Story by JACQUELINE GARDNER Photographs by CONTRIBUTED

S

pa One Nineteen has become synonymous with the holiday season, not only for our wonderful holiday specials, but also for the tranquil retreat our resort-level day spa offers to holiday shoppers.

Our full-service spa takes the guess work out of gift giving. Not sure which of our luxury spa services or retail items you want to pamper your loved one with? Gift cards can be purchased in any denomination, or select from our extensive menu of any manicure, pedicure, massage or facial packages.

Our holiday packages are always a cause for excitement. This year we are offering a free $25 gift card with the purchase of a $150 gift card. We are also offering a marshmallow “memosa” pedicure special.

Bid wintery skin adieu with this Farmhouse Fresh® 50-minute pedicure, complete with a champagne fizz soak, butter rum scrub, marshmallow melt shea butter cream massage and yes, a complimentary mimosa to sip while you relax.

Our spa is staffed by individuals committed to the St. Vincent’s holistic health mission, which makes it the perfect place for nurturing your body and spirit.

While the holidays remind us that it is better to give than to receive, we say reducing stress during this season is just what the doctor ordered.

So in between the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, while you’re at Spa One Nineteen picking up a gift for a special someone, treat yourself to one of our relaxing and rejuvenating spa services.

Don’t forget about our boutique, which carries a variety of special and unique items, from jewelry and wallets, to candles and sophisticated products such as items from our Kerstin Florian collection and our medical lines Revision and Obagi. It’s the hassle-free stop you won’t mind making.

Spa One Nineteen is a center for celebration

and an avenue for escape. Our full menu of services, including our holiday specials, is listed at onenineteen.com/spa. Or simply call (205) 4086510 to schedule an appointment. l

TOP: Spa One Nineteen offers couples massages.

ABOVE: The spa’s nail salon is currently running a marshmallow “memosa” pedicure special.

Jacqueline Gardner is the director of health and wellness services at One Nineteen.

December 2016 | 15

FAITH

Renovating faith Westwood Baptist Church creates new worship spaces for kids Story by CLARKE STACKHOUSE Photographs by KEITH MCCOY

A PAGE 17: Lisa Dorough kicks off a Wednesday night of worship with song and dance with some of the students on the main stage of the Garage. Dorough is one of the many volunteers who help work with the kids in the Garage.

16 | ShelbyLiving.com

retro garage furnished with vintage gas pumps, cars and tools is the newest addition to Westwood Baptist Church’s youth center. The garage opened on Aug. 17 after a 40-day renovation period bringing the new theme and decor to Westwood.

Pastor of Families Ric Callahan said the church was in need of basic repairs and maintenance and they decided to renovate some of the kids’ areas with new themes and space to fit the growing congregation.

“The church was in need of some updates so we decided to focus on some of the kids’ areas to make them a fun place for the kids to worship,” Callahan said.

He said the garage is geared toward students in first through sixth grade and split into two groups, Club 252 for fourth through sixth grade and Route 66 for first through fourth grade.

Callahan said they have around 170 students

attend each Sunday.

“With the new garage, they’ll check in at the touch screens on the gas pumps and be greeted by our volunteers dressed as mechanics,” he said.

Callahan said the garage theme was a playful way to make church enjoyable and give the kids a comfortable environment to worship God. “It’s a fun, unique setting to have our ministry in a garage,” Callahan said. “It’s also a way to remind the kids that God restores, renews and refreshes our lives, just as mechanics do to our cars.”

Callahan said the kids have had a great response to the changes and seem to enjoy the new theme and drawing close to God. Fifth grader George Walker said he’s had so much fun in the new space and all they have been learning.

“I love learning about God and everything he did for us,” Walker said.

He said that they had a mix of contracted

“It’s a fun, unique setting to have our ministry in a garage.

It’s also a way to remind the kids that God restores, renews and refreshes our lives, just as mechanics do to our cars.”

— Ric Callahan

Let our family care for yours.

Brookwood Baptist Health is proud to welcome our newest member, Dr. Shani Lampley, to our primary care network. Dr. Lampley specializes in a range of primary care services—including annual physicals and wellness exams, immunizations, women’s care, chronic condition management, acute care, preventative care, and more.

We’re proud to welcome Dr. Lampley and you, the people of central Alabama, to our community of care.

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December 2016 | 17

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Different items decorate the main stage to give the new worship area a feeling of a vintage car garage.

Students enjoy Wednesday night worship in the main worship area. The preschool area, the Backyard, got a colorful update with playful summertime scenes filling the walls. PAGE 19: People enter through the doors of the newly renovated children’s worship area, the Garage.

18 | ShelbyLiving.com

workers, volunteers and staff help renovate the spaces with Method-1 Custom Interiors, of Trussville, leading the design. A local junkyard donated different items for the stage and main worship area.

Patrick Dorough volunteers on Wednesday nights to help lead the kids in worship. He said the new environment helped energize the kids and is a fun area to learn about God. “This space has been great,” Dorough said.

“The kids have really responded to it and it has made learning about our savior even more fun for them.”

Dorough said they have been working through the basics of the Christian faith and have found some fun ways to incorporate the theme of the worship space. He said they have set up an incentive program to learn Bible verses and phrases with a roadmap on the wall and each kid has a car with their name on it. As they memorize and pass off the scriptures and phrases their car moves along the road with different incentives at some of the stops.

While the older kids hang out in the new garage, the pre-school has undergone a playful outdoorsy renovation. Brightly colored walls

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depict scenes of outdoor fun and summer playtime and have lemonade stand check-ins.

The area will also include a clubhouse stage and worship area for the younger kids on Sundays.

Callahan said they wanted to design the spaces with questions parents asked their kids after church in mind.

“A lot of times after church parents will ask their kid if they had fun, if they learned something and if they want to come back,” Callahan said. “We wanted to make sure the new spaces would allow the kids to answer positively to those questions.”

He said they have about 150 volunteers each Sunday to help work the areas, along with multiple volunteers on Wednesday nights to help lead the worship and operate the lights and sound.

Pat Conn helps run the lights and sound in the Garage and loves seeing how excited the kids are to come into the space and learn about their faith and God. “They needed help running the board and I have some experience with it, so here I am,” Conn said. “I really enjoy helping and the kids really enjoy the new space and I’m glad I can help.”

“We keep growing and growing,” Callahan said. “We have a lot of young families moving into the community and we wanted to cater to them and their children. We hope the new spaces will bring even more people to our church.” l

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FEATURES

Carrying minimal gear, Davis Grimes hiked the entire Appalachian Trail in 132 days this year.

22 | ShelbyLiving.com

Endurance test

Helena’s Davis Grimes hikes Appalachian Trail in 132 days

Story by EMILY SPARACINO Photographs CONTRIBUTED

H

elena native Davis Grimes and his father, Tom, started talking about hiking the Appalachian Trail together years ago.

When Davis was a child, he joined Boy Scouts and delved into camping, backpacking and other outdoor activities he and Tom enjoyed.

“We enjoy doing outdoor things together,” Davis, 23, said. “We’ve scouted together for years. We’re both Eagle Scouts.”

A map of the Appalachian Trail on the wall of Dr. William Whitaker’s office further piqued Davis’s interest, and, in Tom’s words, “planted a seed” in his mind about someday attempting the arduous, 2,190-mile expedition on foot.

“I’ve always wanted to hike it since I was a kid,” Tom said of the Trail, also known as the “A.T.” Originally, the two aimed to complete the entire trail in one trip – a thru-hike – after Davis graduated from college.

But cancer changed their plans.

Tom, who works for the Shelby County Highway Department, had been diagnosed when he was 28 years old with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system that compromises the body’s ability to fight infection.

The treatment of the disease caused

him to develop radiation-induced sarcoma in the spring of Davis’s freshman year of college, nearly three years ago.

While Tom’s dreams of a thru-hike evaporated, Davis’s determination to conquer the challenge only solidified.

On May 4, Davis started his thruhike at Springer Mountain, Georgia, the A.T.’s southern terminus.

Tom hiked with him for roughly 12 miles before sending Davis on his way.

“It was tough,” Tom said. “I can’t imagine what he went through, just from the short amount of time I was on the Trail. It’s more of an endurance test than a hike.”

And Davis couldn’t imagine what he would go through, either, until he was in the thick of the Trail’s wilderness.

“I didn’t physically prepare for the trip at all beforehand, so the first couple of weeks on the Trail were rough,” he said, noting he endured shin splints twice in the first month, plus rolling ankles and the normal “wear and tear” the physically demanding journey delivers.

Davis started the trip with a group of about eight people, a “small trail family,” for the first two or three weeks. He assumed the Trail name “Highlander,” which is also in the name of his blog, Highlander’s Travels.

December 2016 | 23

Grimes and a fellow hiker he befriended on the Trail nicknamed “Blue� smile after summiting Mount Katahdin, the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail in Maine.

24 | ShelbyLiving.com

“I really enjoyed it for the first month or so,” he said. “After 500 miles is where I started to struggle mentally.”

He met a hiker from Tennessee named Andrew Forgione, nicknamed “Blue” on the Trail, in the Smoky Mountains.

The two men ended up hiking between 1,800 and 1,900 miles together.

“Most people end up finding other individuals to hike with,” Davis said, adding he and Blue still talk to each other. “It was also his first thru-hike and his first hike in general.”

Davis and Blue became hiking partners and stuck together through trying circumstances.

Davis suffered two sprained ankles and a bout of giardia, intestinal parasites that caused symptoms severe enough to necessitate a visit to a nearby hospital for treatment, followed by a day of rest in a hotel room.

While on the Trail, Davis carried the bare minimum in his backpack: a change of socks and underwear, a rain jacket, some camera gear, a sleeping bag and small amounts of food (mostly salami wraps with cheese and mayonnaise, Clif energy bars, Snickers candy bars and cold oatmeal in Ziploc bags).

“I almost never carried more than a liter of water at a time,” he said, adding he slackpacked at times, too. “Slackpacking is where you only carry food and water for the day. There are people who will carry your gear ahead of you … or drop you off at one trailhead and pick you up from another. It just gives you a break from having to carry absolutely everything. Then, you can really run.”

Davis and Blue set their sights on reaching the end of the A.T. – Mount Katahdin, Maine, the Trail’s northern terminus – as quickly as they could, so they adopted a brisk pace, averaging about 18 miles a day and sometimes logging more than 30 or 40 miles.

Davis and Blue both wanted to be finished and back home for different reasons by early October.

“We decided to be done by Oct. 1,” Davis said. “Then, we pushed it back to Sept. 4. I crossed the halfway point at two months and a few days.”

They finished on Sept. 12, eight days past four months total.

For most people, an A.T. thru-hike typically takes six months or longer.

“I can’t keep his pace,” Tom said, laughing. “He hiked fast in Scouts.”

Tom linked up with Davis a couple of times along the Trail, once in North Carolina and again in Virginia.

“We texted constantly,” Tom said, noting he and his wife, Amy, kept track of Davis’s progress on a virtual trail map online.

“It gave me something to look forward to when chemo was bad.”

Throughout his intrepid trek across the A.T. terrain, Davis took numerous photographs and videos of the scenery, and blogged periodically from the Trail.

Among his favorite places were southern Virginia, with its rolling hills and farmland, and the White Mountains and Mahoosucs in New Hampshire and Maine.

December 2016 | 25

ABOVE: Blue pets a horse.

RIGHT: Blue takes in the breathtaking view.

26 | ShelbyLiving.com

Davis said he didn’t have any frightening encounters with bears, but did spot a nearly 500-pound bear in Pennsylvania.

The end of the Trail – and the conclusion of his journey – was bittersweet and surreal for Davis, who had never met the people aside from Blue with whom he summited Katahdin.

“It was really, really cold,” he said of the 32-degree temperature at the top of the mountain.

“It was really emotional for numerous reasons. You get to the top and everybody’s cheering, and you get to the bottom and there is a crowd cheering.

Everybody’s very supportive.”

Though Tom and Amy couldn’t make the long trip to Maine, they cheered for their son over the phone and welcomed him back to Alabama with thankful hearts.

“We were very happy to have him home in one piece,” Tom said. “It’s taken about two months for him to settle down. He’s eating somewhat normally again.”

One of Davis’s top priorities upon his return was sleep.

“I was just ready to go to bed,” he said. “My first week back, I couldn’t sleep much. I spent time walking in the mornings and at night. I still haven’t gotten back to regular sleep schedule.”

One of Davis’s shuttle drivers said two attributes of a thru-hiker are adaptability and patience.

Surely, Davis had a fair share of both.

“It was just a growing experience, I think,” he said. “I had to figure out what kind of hiker I wanted to be.”

And Tom figured out what kind of son Davis was, describing the journey as “one of the most meaningful things he could do to show he loves and cares about me.”

“I still want to go do it myself, but knowing he’s done it takes the pressure off,” Tom said.

Tom was set to finish chemotherapy in November and have another surgery in December.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been more proud of

Davis,” Amy wrote in a social media post after Davis had summited Katahdin. “He took his father’s dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail and he fulfilled that dream for him.”

Davis has a degree in music technology and piano performance from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

He has two sisters, Charlie Anne and Mary Katherine, and a brother, Wilson.

His current plans are to work, save money and continue hiking.

He might even hike the Pacific Crest Trail someday.

For now, reflecting on what he lost, what he found, who he met and who he became on the Appalachian Trail is enough.

“I always knew that this journey was going to be a difficult undertaking,” Davis wrote in a blog post several days after finishing the Trail. “It has the potential to be the most painful achievement I will ever face. There were days that I woke up and didn’t want to hike and all I could think about was quitting and coming home, but through the grace of God I finished.

“While this journey is over, Highlander is not done traveling.

I know that the mountains will call me again soon so stay tuned for more adventure.” l December 2016 | 27

FEATURES

Shelby County’s Beth Bryan started sharing project ideas on a blog years ago before blogging took off, not realizing her posts would catapult her to Internet fame.

28 | ShelbyLiving.com

Following

Beth Bryan

Woman behind Unskinny Boppy blog opens up about her rise to Internet fame

2016

Story by GRACE THORNTON Photographs by DAWN HARRISON

W

hen Pinterest was born, Beth Bryan was already there.

“About 10 years ago, my friends and I were a group of newlywed women and we were all sharing ideas of how to decorate our houses,” she said.

She started posting those photos on a blog back when blogging wasn’t really even the thing yet. “It was a great way to share projects,” she said, noting that it was more like a personal journal than a site for the masses.

She kept posting. And then a photo Bryan pinned of her son, Garrett, in front of a glowing Christmas tree — along with instructions on how to do it yourself — went viral on Pinterest in 2011.

“I can’t really pinpoint what started it, but after that happened, everything changed,” she said. “It’s been this big, organic, fun ride.”

On her blog, unskinnyboppy.com, Bryan posts a lot of doit-yourself home projects “that appeal to the weekend warrior audience,” she said. Those include interior design, holiday décor, gardening ideas, photography tricks and stories of motherhood.

The name came after her friend and fellow blogger, Dusty of All Things G&D, was talking about her trip to see Poison in concert.

chelsea comprehensive dental Ryan A. Draiss, DMD

December 2016 | 29

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Bryan’s Project Hall of Fame includes a Christmas star made from scrap wood.

Other projects she has done involve wreaths and other home decor. She often uses unique pieces she finds at flea markets in her decorating projects. Upcycled or repurposed materials, like wood and metal, are found in many of Bryan’s projects.

PAGE 31: Bryan launched her master class on Cyber Monday, Nov. 28.

30 | ShelbyLiving.com

“She inspired me to name my blog ‘Unskinny Bop’ (after the Poison song), but then I glanced over at the Boppy pillow that my son was sitting in on the floor and poof — a magical idea was formed,” she wrote on her blog.

Her traffic at Unskinny Boppy grew to the point that she was able to quit her job two years ago and become a full-time blogger, she said.

“I’ve always been creative and enjoyed doing artistic things,” said Bryan, an Alabaster resident with an interior design degree from the University of Montevallo.

She has a Project Hall of Fame on her blog that includes things from a Christmas star made from scrap wood to her secret recipe for the perfect cup of hot chocolate, which has been pinned more than 80,000 times.

Her four most popular posts, other than her son in front of the Christmas tree, are a “lazy girl’s timesaving tips for painting wall stripes,” a DIY succulent wreath tutorial, a ladder lantern hanger

and a virtual tour of her house.

And her audience — primarily married-withchildren women between the ages of 30-65 — has been eating it up. Bryan has 132,600 Pinterest followers, more than 2,000 Facebook fans and 200,000 page views a month — 300,000 around the holidays.

“Christmas is my boom time,” she said.

Bryan has been featured in HGTV Gardens, Country Living, Good Housekeeping and Pottery Barn, among others. She’s been a blog contributor to sites like Behr Designer Stories and the True Value Blog Squad, and she’s helped Home Depot with Do-It-Herself Workshops.

She’s also been featured several times in Better Homes and Gardens, including a piece Jamie Lott wrote about flea market Christmas décor.

“You know those great old things you spy at the flea market and your first question is, ‘What is it’?

But the second thing you wonder, since you love it even though you have no idea what it is, is ‘What

can I do with it? This is one of those wonderful things,” Lott wrote about an old French shaving sink that Bryan filled with Christmas lights, baubles and other decorations.

But who’d have thought to do that, she asked — “Beth from the blog Unskinny Boppy did! Take those unexpected things you love, that reach out and grab your attention, even if you don’t know what they are and think of unexpected uses for them.”

That concept exactly is one of Bryan’s favorite things — a whole section of her blog is dedicated to upcycled and repurposed junk. She’s got projects in that section from a planter made of thrift store bowls to an end table made of Coca-Cola crates and an old window.

She also recently launched her first digital project, The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Lightroom, an e-workshop designed to teach people how to edit photos in Adobe Lightroom.

“It’s been my major focus lately and will continue to be through this holiday season,” she said.

The launch of her master class was on Cyber Monday, Nov. 28.

For more information, visit http://bethcbryan. com/classes/lazylightroom.

To check out Bryan’s blog, visit unskinnyboppy. com. l

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Call (205) 665-3535 ext. 1031, or email Christmas@AmericanVillage.org to make a reservation

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MONTEVALLO, ALABAMA WWW. AMERICANVILLAGE.ORG December 2016 | 31

WALL TO WALL

Decking the halls S ilver and gold. Snowflakes and sleds (not here but somewhere so I hear!). Chestnuts and open fires. Holiday parties and open houses.

The stores have been filled with holiday decorations for a couple months, but now is the time to start thinking about some serious decorating. Even if you put your tree up the day after Halloween, it’s never too late to start enhancing your holiday décor.

Christmas is my absolute favorite time of year, and I tend to go a little nuts with my decorating, but hey, it only comes once a year. Go crazy!

For inspiration, here are some sparkling ideas to inspire your creativity. uMake a good first impression – Dress up the front door with a beautiful wreath or colorful holiday arrangement. Tie ball ornaments onto the wreath and add some small wrapped presents and a bow. Light the walkway with luminaries or outdoor lighting. You don’t have to be Clark Griswold, but the possibilities for exterior lighting are endless. uInteresting entry – The foyer deserves special attention and you want this area to feel warm and cozy. The front hall must be welcoming with good lighting and perhaps a holiday arrangement on the hall table. Mirrors and candlelight will brighten a foyer nicely, and a rich oriental rug can add a luxurious touch. If the entry is large enough, a small (or large!) tree can make a huge impact. uLet there be light – Soft glowing light is complementary to you and your guests. Once you’ve turned the lights down low, bring out the candles by the boxful. From tall and tapered to short and stout, candles set a celebratory tone. For the most dramatic impact, group candles just as you would any other collectible, and display them on a silver platter. uHaul out the holly – When choosing plants to help add holiday cheer, think beyond the traditional poinsettias. Fill metallic vases with bouquets of fresh flowers and holly. It’s easier than you think to

32 | ShelbyLiving.com

arrange fresh flowers in a vase or bowl in the holiday colors. Local grocery stores have a great selection of fresh flowers already grouped together. All you have to do is choose a vessel.

Or choose beautifully Laura Purvis, owner of Decorating Den shaped topiaries covered Interiors, with pepper berries. decdens.com/laurap, uPrecious metals laurap@decoratingden.com 205.918.8743 – Silver is still the metal of choice and you can incorporate it in a number of ways, including candlesticks, picture frames and decorative boxes.

Don’t hesitate to mix things up a bit. In formal rooms, combine your silver pieces with gold or polished brass accessories. Or take a more casual approach by blending pewter, copper and brass. uA feast for the eye - The dining room itself should be a visual feast. Drape the chandelier with pine garland or holly. Shiny ornaments hung with ribbon from the chandelier makes a spectacular statement of elegance and beauty. Surprise your guests with wrapped gifts on their salad plates. And for a cohesive feeling, incorporate an element of your room’s design on the table. If your room features a mirror, use mirrored chargers beneath each plate uOrnamental accents – Christmas tree ornaments are not just for trees anymore. Display some on the coffee table in an oversized bowl or clear glass urn. You can even use round glass balls as place cards, and write each guest’s name on each and set them around the dining table. And red and green come in many shades and hues. Bright lime green and an orange red make for a funky and unexpected color pop yet still keeping with the holiday colors. uBe my guest – Is your guest room ready for holiday guests? Is there a luggage stand or space in

the closet? Are there plenty of pillows? Is the bedside table big enough to accommodate a lamp, reading materials and a carafe of water? Don’t forget the little extras such as fresh fruit, potpourri and a basket of toiletries. And be sure to include a few holiday touches like greenery or a small gift or even a travel-themed tree with an ornament or two for your guests to take with them. uThe wonder of wreaths – Whether you prefer wreaths made of natural materials or some of the lovely permanent florals on the market today, wreaths are an absolute must for any holiday home.

In addition to their traditional place on the front door or over the mantle, smaller wreaths can be used as curtain tiebacks or napkin rings. uFestive fruits and vegetables – Visit the produce aisle of your grocery store for unique holiday decorations. For example, spray-paint walnuts and gourds in silver or gold and display them in a decorative basket. Or fill a large crystal bowl with red and green apples. Oranges wrapped with ribbon and secured with cloves and placed in a decorative dish make a beautiful and fragrant display. You can also tuck sprigs of fresh magnolia leaves or pine boughs in with your artificial greenery to make it look fuller and give it that fresh-cut fragrance. uSet your own style – Make your tree an integral part of your decorating scheme and a reflection of your personality. I have a different themed tree in almost every room in my house. My boys have a small tree in their rooms with ornaments that reflect their interests and passions. Our family room tree has all our family ornaments that the boys made all through their school years. The tree in the dining room has sterling silver ornaments and is classic formal Christmas. And being from the South, my husband has a football themed tree in his man-cave with his favorite pro and college teams’ colors! uWrap it up with ribbon – Ribbon can be used for much more than wrapping presents. Use French wire ribbons, in a variety of widths, to tie bows on your trees. Or instead of a garland or greenery, wrap your banister with ribbon. You can also hang holiday cards from a mantle or shelf using narrow ribbons in holiday colors. uHoliday art – The holidays can be a great time to change up your art. There are plenty of options for holiday themed art for your home, but try to think out of the box. A trio of greenery wreathes with burlap or velvet bows can take the place of that oil painting over the sofa. Replace that mirror with sconces and red or white candles and add a bow. If your family likes to gather in the kitchen, make sure there are attractive accessories such as bowls of fruits, candies, pastries or flowers in view.

Our Question of the Month comes from Carol, and she writes: “My fireplace is old and outdated. What can I do to freshen it up and bring it into the 21st Century?”

Great question, Carol! Most homeowners cannot afford to replace or reface a fireplace, so paint and some new accessories can make a real difference. With one fireplace, we painted the brick a contrasting color to the walls and added new artwork and some new accessories. Keep those questions coming! I hope your family has a wonderfully blessed and happy holiday season! l

2016

Come as you are.

You’ll fit right in.

SUNDAYS AT 8:15 & 10:45 AM

Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church 5080 Cahaba Valley Trace Birmingham, AL 35242

#wheregraceabounds

December 2016 | 33

FEATURES

Restorative rides

Special Equestrians offers equine therapy to people with disabilities Story by CARMEN BROWN Photographs by DAWN HARRISON

I

ABOVE: A child pets a horse at Special Equestrians, a program based at the Indian Springs School campus that offers equine therapy to people with disabilities.

RIGHT: Another child waves while riding one of the horses at Special Equestrians.

34 | ShelbyLiving.com

n 1987, Kathi Claybrook was at a point in her life where she wanted to be a part of something besides herself. Then one day, she opened the newspaper and saw a fullpage ad for Special Equestrians.

“I’d been riding horses since I was 7, I had a degree in psychology and I wanted to work with kids,” she said. “I just thought, what an awesome idea. I never left, and it’s been an amazing experience.”

Rita Mendel, a horse lover and instructor, had begun Special Equestrians in 1985 out of a desire to use the benefits of equine therapy to help people with disabilities. She teamed up with Pam Abdulla, a renowned equestrian and instructor; Patrice Murphy, a physical therapist; and Annette Troxell-Collins, a special education teacher.

Claybrook quickly went from volunteer to teacher and eventually became executive director in 1991.

Located at the campus of Indian Springs School since 1993, Special Equestrians now has about 15 horses, including Oreo, Domino and Tess, the only mare in the group. Claybrook said the biggest factor of equine therapy is the hip action of the horses, which mimics that of a human being.

“Horses are very rhythmic when they walk,” Claybrook said. “It’s the same way we walk. If you take someone from a wheelchair, they have to use muscles you wouldn’t normally use. When you sit on a horse, it improves balance, strength and coordination.”

Special Equestrians accepts people with all disabilities, including Down Syndrome, autism, severe ADHD and clinical depression. No physician referral is needed, but once someone is accepted to the program, a doctor’s clearance is

required. Claybrook said she has seen changes in people with all types of challenges after participating in the program.

“For autism, it allows them to calm and focus in a way they couldn’t before. You don’t have to be able to see, you don’t have to be able to hear, you don’t have to be able to speak to have this kind of experience,” she said.

The program consists of a nine-week course, with the class lasting about an hour each week. They typically ride for about 45 minutes.

“Horses meet you where you are. Even if you don’t know you’re hurting, they know it. They give you the immediate feedback you need. It blows me away how they figure you out.”

Tom Mulrooney, known as “Mr. Tom,” was a longtime volunteer for over 25 years who passed away earlier this year.

After his passing, Special Equestrians named “Mr. Tom’s Tack Room” in honor of his commitment.

“He did everything,” Claybrook said. “He would come in every morning and every evening to feed the horses. He always fed them on Sunday mornings and on Christmas Day. He was a good friend, not just a volunteer.”

Claybrook also credits assistant director Madison Pozzo, facilities manager Steve Curreri and all of the instructors and volunteers for making Special Equestrians such a huge success.

Claybrook’s son, Colin, is also a volunteer, along with her husband Jerry, who helps out with computer issues.

“I’m really blessed to do what I love,” she said. “In a way, it is a miracle. It can get you moving. It can get you outside. Just watching them move makes me happy.” l December 2016 | 35

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

The 2016 gift guide Shop local stores to find a gift for everyone on your list this year!

Produced by EMILY SPARACINO Photographs by KEITH MCCOY

Set the mood for the holidays safely with this flameless candle and red lantern. White Liown Torchier batteryoperated candle, $32.95, and lantern, $29.95. Both from Cedar Creek Nursery & Gifts, 2979 Alabama 119, Montevallo. 205-665-5237.

for the

holidays

36 | ShelbyLiving.com

Celebrate baby’s first Christmas with this ornament and handmade wreath. Wreath and ornament set, $55, The Gingerbread Lady, 5510 U.S. 280, Suite 110, Birmingham.

205-960-7040.

Display stockings in a festive way with this signature Mark Roberts stocking holder. Mark Roberts Lollipop Fairy Stocking Holder, $160, The Gingerbread Lady.

Snack on something savory with these spicy cheese bits.

Savory & Spicy Cheese Bits, $12, Chelsea Lane, 16700 U.S. 280, Chelsea. 205678-3361.

for the

home

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Daily inspiration becomes decorative with this handmade canvas.

Faith canvas, $20, Gifted Handmade Gifts & More, 2643 Pelham Parkway, Pelham. 205-624-3400.

A Grateful Heart pillow adds the finishing touch to any sofa or chair. Grateful Heart, Trista Sutter for Glory Haus, $21.95, Cedar Creek Nursery & Gifts.

Warm your body and soul as you sip hot coffee or tea from this Amazing Grace mug. Glory Haus mug, $15.99, Gifted Handmade Gifts & More.

Mix up your Christmas decor with traditional and flameless candles.

Liown Torchier red 3-inch-by8-inch batteryoperated candle, $33.95; pedestal, $12; O Christmas Tree hand-poured soy blend candle, $7.95. All from Cedar Creek Nursery & Gifts.

Greet your guests with an assortment of delicious coffee, tea, sauce and dip. Captain Rodney's Private Reserve Temptation of Jezebel Sauce, $9.95; Santa Caws Raven's Brew Coffee Holiday Blend, $12.95; Terrapin Ridge Farms hot pepper bacon jam cheese topper, condiment and dip, $8; and Tropical Passion Tea, $8. All from The Gingerbread Lady.

December 2016 | 37

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

for the

boys

Channel the flannel with this merry little outfit. Mudpie tree two-piece set for 6-9 months, $24.95, Cedar Creek Nursery & Gifts.

Shield his eyes from the sun on the golf course with a comfortable hat. Under Armour hat, $19.99, PGA Tour Superstore, 165 Inverness Plaza A, Birmingham.

205-440-4200.

Let your little one get a feel for swinging a golf club early. Kid’s Klubs set, $14.99, PGA Tour Superstore.

Junior golfers will look as sharp as their game in this outfit. Under Armour shirt, $29.99, and Under Armour shorts, $39.99.

Both from PGA Tour Superstore.

FootJoy’s golf shoes for juniors will have them feeling ready to play. Shoes, $69.99, PGA Tour Superstore.

38 | ShelbyLiving.com

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

for the

girls

Take the guesswork out of dressing your toddler or baby girl for Christmas gatherings. Mudpie red corduroy dress, 5T, $32.99, and Mudpie first Christmas gown, 0-3 months, $28. Both from Gifted.

Personalize her shoes with decorative monograms.

Monogrammed boots, 2-3 months. Boots and monogram service available at Gifted.

She can clutch her Elsie doll while she reads with you.

Bunnies by the Bay “Who’s a Pretty Girl?” As told by Elsie Attaberry book, $15.99, and Bunnies by the Bay Elsie Pretty Girl doll, $26.99. Both from Gifted.

December 2016 | 39

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE This comfortable black dress can be dressed up with jewelry or worn by itself for a more casual look. Simply Noelle black dress, $49.99, and Seasons Jewelry cross necklace, $25.

Both from Gifted.

women

for the

Pamper her with gifts that will help her unwind and regroup. 1818 Farms Buttercream Bath Truffles, $20, and 1818 Farms Lavender Shea Creme, $10. Both from Chelsea Lane.

She will light up when she opens a beautiful diamond ring this Christmas. 1.61 ctw Christopher Cut diamond engagement ring, $10,843, and platinum 2.33 ct Old Miners Cut diamond solitaire mounting, $13,300. Both from Paul’s Diamond Center, 300 Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster. 205-664-4400.

Keep track of time, appointments and more with an Apple Watch. Apple Watch, available at Best Buy, 100 S. Colonial Dr., Alabaster. 205-620-2079.

Photo provided by Apple.com and Apple Stores.

Show off your team spirit on the golf course in this University of Alabama pullover. Levelwear women’s quarter-zip collegiate pullover, $70, PGA Tour Superstore.

40 | ShelbyLiving.com

Ring in the New Year with an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus. Apple iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, available at Best Buy. Photo provided by Apple.com and Apple Stores.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

men

for the

Don’t let your golfing buddies forget who you root for.

Levelwear men’s collegiate shirts, $59.99 each, PGA Tour Superstore.

Three diamonds add more shine to this stately band. Gts 15 ptw 8 millimeter diamond band, 14 kt white gold, $2,495, Paul’s Diamond Center.

Stock up on golf balls before you hit the course.

Titlist Pro V1 balls, $39.97, and Callaway Super Soft balls, two for $35. Both from PGA Tour Superstore.

December 2016 | 41

Tis the season to shop local

FEATURES

Sweets of the season

Chef shares dessert recipes for Christmas

Story by EMILY SPARACINO Photographs by DAWN HARRISON

’T

is the season for indulging in desserts. Anyone whose sweet tooth demands the perfect ending to Christmas dinner will appreciate the following recipes from the kitchen of Jefferson State Community College’s Culinary and Hospitality Institute at the Shelby-Hoover

44 | ShelbyLiving.com

Campus.

In the second part of a two-part holiday recipe series, program director Chef Joseph Mitchell provides ingredients and step-by-step instructions on how to create desserts family and friends will continue to rave about long after the holidays.

PAGE 45: Christmas Stollen Bread, Buche de Noel and German Christmas Cherry Pudding made by Joseph Mitchell, director of the Culinary and Hospitality Institute at Jefferson State Community College ShelbyHoover Campus, sweeten any holiday table. CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: The cherry pudding contains red sour cherries, toasted bread crumbs and Kirshwasser (cherry brandy). Mitchell cuts pieces of the Buche de Noel.

Mitchell arranges the stollen bread on a platter.

German Christmas Cherry Pudding 21 ounces sugar 18 ounces butter 2 pounds plus 4 ounces red sour cherries (drained) 18 ounces toasted bread crumb ground fine 10 ounces Kirshwasser (cherry brandy) 20 egg whites, (add 6 ounces granulated sugar, whipped medium peak) Directions: Yield 12-15 6-ounce ramekins Whip room temperature butter and sugar

together until light and fluffy Soak fine bread crumbs with Kirshwasser Fold in cherries to butter/sugar mixture Fold in soaked bread crumbs Fold in 1/3 meringue aggressively, fold in remainder gently Place mixture (full) in ramekins lined with softened butter and cake crumbs Bake in water bath at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until golden brown on top and baked throughout.

Serve with vanilla sauce and a dollop of lightly whipped cream.

December 2016 | 45

ABOVE: The stollen bread contains a fruit and nut mixture, golden raisins, candied lemon peel, candied orange peel, dark rum and whole almonds blanched.

PAGE 47: Buche de Noel is a spongecake that resembles a yule log when finished.

Christmas Stollen Bread Fruit and nut mixture 10 ounces golden raisins 5 ounces candied lemon peel 2 ounces candied orange peel 3 ounces dark rum 6 ounces whole almonds blanched To prepare the fruit and nut mixture, rinse the raisins and lemon and orange peel with warm water and combine them with the rum in a plastic container. Cover and let the mixture soak at room temperature for at least 8 and up to 24 hours. Just before folding the fruit into the dough in step 4 add the nuts.

Sponge 11 ounce bread flour 15 ounces milk ½ ounce instant dry yeast To prepare the sponge, mix the flour, milk, and yeast on low speed until blended, about 2 minutes.

Cover and ferment until the sponge has risen and just begun to recede, 30 to 40 minutes at 75 degrees.

Final Dough Sponge (above) 11 ounce bread blour 12 ounces softened butter 1 ounce almond Paste 1 ounce sugar ½ ounce salt 1 tsp bemon best grated Pinch ground cloves Pinch ground ginger Pinch ground allspice Pinch ground cinnamon

46 | ShelbyLiving.com

Fruit and nut mixture (above) To prepare the final dough, mix the sponge, flour, butter, almond paste, sugar, salt, lemon zest, cloves, ginger, allspice, and cinnamon on medium speed for 3 minutes. The dough should be sticky but have sufficient gluten development.

Bulk ferment the dough until nearly double, about 35 minutes. Very carefully fold in the fruit and nut mixture. Bulk ferment the dough until nearly double again, about 15 minutes.

Divide dough into 4 loafs, about 20 ounces each, roll dough with rolling pen in circle about 12 inches in diameter. Roll out a 6 ounce cylinder of almond paste and place in center of dough, fold over, place on baking sheets, egg wash and bake at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until golden brown and baked through.

While loafs are still warm from the over brush butter over the entire of the load and dip into granulated sugar to coat. Enjoy! Great for Christmas gifts and to serve with coffee with friends and family members.

Buche de Noel Spongecake 7 eggs 7 yolks 10 ounces granulated sugar 1.5 fluid ounces vanilla extract 5.5 ounces cake flour, sifted 7 egg whites Powdered sugar, sifted 2 ounces Directions: Line a full-sheet pan or 2 half sheet pans with parchment.

Lightly butter and flour the paper.

Whip the eggs, egg yolks, sugar and vanilla in a mixing bowl on medium high speed until the mixture from the machine forms thick ribbons.

Remove the yolk mixture from the machine and delicately fold in the flour.

Set aside In a separate bowl, use a clean whip to whip the egg whites and powdered sugar to medium-soft peaks.

Lighten the yolk mixture with one-third of the whipped egg whites, then fold in the remaining whites.

Spread the spongecake batter evenly on the prepared sheet pan using an offset spatula. Bake at 425 degree until the cake springs back when lightly touch, approximately 7 to 8 minutes.

Traditional French Buttercream 19 ounces granulated sugar 3 ounce corn syrup or glucose 6 fl. ounce water 3 eggs 10 yolks 26 ounces unsalted butter room temp.

1 fl. ounce vanilla extract 2 fl. ounce coffee extract Directions: Combine the sugar, corn syrup and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

Meanwhile, place the eggs and egg yolks in the bowl of a mixer fitted with the whip attachment; start whipping the mixture on medium speed the moment the sugar solution begins to boil.

Continue boiling until the syrup reaches 250 degrees. When the syrup is ready, increase the mixer speed to high and carefully pour the sugar in a steady stream down the inside of the bowl.

Continue whipping until the mixture is cool and mousse like.

Reduce the speed to medium and gradually add the butter; whip until light and aerated.

Add the vanilla and coffee extract.

Assembly: Remove pan liner from sponge cake. With offset spatula spread icing over cake covering the entire surface of the cake, carefully roll cake into a cylinder, cut off ends at an angle, and ensure the cuts are long enough to serve as short branches normally associated with a yule log.

Arrange cake and end pieces to resemble a log, spread buttercream on the entirety of the log, then fill a pastry bag with medium size star tip and run strips up and down the entirety of the log.

Garnish as desired to include powdered sugar, cocoa powder, meringue mushrooms, chocolate shaving. A wonderful tasting cake that become a center piece for the table of buffet. Enjoy!

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FEATURES

Voices of the South

A cappella chorus gearing up for Christmas show at Lyric Theatre Story by EMILY SPARACINO Photograph CONTRIBUTED

I

ABOVE: Voices of the South is a male a cappella chorus whose members are mostly from Shelby and Jefferson counties. Pictured is the chorus in Oxford after Matt Powell, kneeling, took over as director.

48 | ShelbyLiving.com

f the walls of Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Vestavia Hills could talk, they would probably sing instead.

Every Monday night, members of Voices of the South men’s a cappella chorus rehearse at the church for an hour-and-a-half, singing songs they will perform at upcoming concerts or competitions.

More than 20 men from Shelby and Jefferson counties and other Alabama cities comprise the all-volunteer group, the performing chorus of the Central Alabama Chapter of Barbershop Harmony Society.

“Voices of the South, as we know it, probably first formed in 2000,” President Ed Wharton said. “We are open to anybody that wants to come sing with us.”

Wharton, of Alabaster, said he has been involved in “barbershopping” for nearly 35 years. As a student, he was a member of the Warblers group at

Woodlawn High School.

Wharton defined barbershopping as a four-part male a cappella harmony. The four basic parts are: lead voice (second tenor), bass (underlying roots of harmony), tenor (above melody) and baritone (whatever is left over).

“Barbershopping in Birmingham started in the mid-1960s,” Wharton said. “The national group is made up of chapters in different cities.”

Voices of the South encompasses a chorus and quartets that perform at various events and competitions each year.

“We participate twice a year in competitions against other choruses in our district, a four-state area, for bragging rights,” Wharton said.

Voices of the South also performs twice at Christmastime and on Valentine’s Day, in Singing Valentines. On Saturday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m., the group will perform at the Lyric Theatre in downtown Birmingham.

The group also sings at the Riverchase Galleria on

Friday nights close to Christmas.

Wharton said members are “all very amateur” in their training, and anyone who loves music and is interested in joining the group is urged to do so “as long as you can still sing and feel proud about your singing.”

“A high degree of music training is not a prerequisite,” he added. “We really don’t have an unreachable standard for people wanting to sing with us. We love music and we love performing.”

No age limit exists for the group, either. The youngest member is 17, and the oldest gentleman, Frank Buttler, is 86.

Matt Powell, 28, from the Hoover area, is director of Voices of the South. He joined the chorus about a year ago.

“I’ve been director for seven months, since April,” Powell said, adding he was honored to receive the opportunity despite how sudden it came. Powell has a church music degree from Samford University and served as director of music at a small church prior to Voices of the South.

“I’ve just enjoyed learning and getting my feet wet (with) the basics of leading a chorus,” Powell said. “I love learning from some of the guys as well. They give me a few pointers here and there. It’s a great fellowship. We all love one another.”

The group is trying to spread the word about its ongoing recruitment of new members.

“We’re here to give music to the community and show that guys from all walks of life can come together,” Powell said.

Those wanting to find out more about membership may attend a — Matt Powell Monday night rehearsal at Saint Mark UMC or visit VoicesOfTheSouth.com.

“It is very much a family-oriented thing,” Wharton said.

“People are more than welcome to sing with us.”

Voices of the South’s Christmas at the Lyric show will feature Christmas and non-Christmas music. The first half of the show will feature non-Christmas favorites, and the second half will include religious and patriotic favorites, along with a special telling of the Christmas Story from the Gospel of Luke.

Christmas at the Lyric marks the 17th consecutive Christmas show for Voices of the South.

The song list includes: It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, Happy Holidays/ It’s The Holiday Season, Home for the Holidays, Tennessee Waltz, I’ll Walk With God, The Prayer, God Bless The USA, Temptations Tribute, Hallelujah, We Need A little Christmas, White Christmas, O Little Town of Bethlehem, What Child Is This, Angels We Have Heard On High, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Holy Night and Silent Night. Tickets are available at Lyricbham. com/events/.

“We’re here to give music to the community and show that guys from all walks of life can come together.”

December 2016 | 49

FEATURES

Christmas comedy SCT’s Dashing Through The Snow opens this month Story by EMILY SPARACINO Photographs by DAWN HARRISON

ABOVE: An actor opens her script for South City Theatre’s holiday production “Dashing Through The Snow” during rehearsal. PAGE 51: Two actors run through an argument scene in a rehearsal for the production.

50 | ShelbyLiving.com

A

family feud, a wedding and a dose of Shakespeare will keep audiences of South City Theatre’s December production entertained and ready to embrace the Christmas spirit.

“Dashing Through The Snow” showcases a string of colorful characters who are guests at the Snowflake Inn in Tinsel, Texas, “where it’s Christmas 365 days a year.”

“It’s an unusual show,” director Donna Love said, noting the comedic production – by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten – is written like episodic TV, with four single acts, four storylines and four casts. “It’s an ensemble cast (with about) 17 people.”

Three characters, Trina the innkeeper, Lou Ida the cook and a disgruntled guest named Boykin, knit the whole show together, Love said. But Lou

Ida and Boykin never appear on stage; only their voices are heard.

Performing a voice-only part will be a new experience for Dianna Murphree, who will play Lou Ida. “I have never done this before, but I think this is going to be so much fun,” Murphree said.

Sally Montgomery will play the role of Ennis, one of the feuding aunts.

Montgomery’s character, a textbook germophobe, carries a can of Lysol with her, compulsively cleaning anything she thinks is dirty.

Like Ennis, the other characters’ quirks surface throughout the show.

Montgomery moved to Birmingham in 2001, and the second play she performed in was a Christmas show at SCT. “I was a Jolly Jingler,” she said.

“That kind of got me started. Every play, I learn something. I just enjoy performing.”

“Dashing Through The Snow” marks actor Chris Glasgow’s third play with SCT. Glasgow will play the part of Hoyt, the feuding aunts’ nephew whose failed attempts at peacemaking lead to laughter.

“Dashing Through The Snow” is Love’s first production as director.

December 2016 | 51

ABOVE: ”Dashing Through The Snow” features four single acts, four storylines and four casts. RIGHT: Sally Montgomery, right, laughs as Mike Gerrells reads his lines.

best best OF THE

2016

HOOVER

52 | ShelbyLiving.com

A longtime patron of SCT and community theatre participant, Love performed in her first show with SCT, “Design for Murder,” in October.

“I’m very excited,” Love said of “Dashing Through The Snow.” “It’s really a unique way to do things, and it’s funny as all get out.”

Other cast members include Sharon Beiswenger, Mike Gerrells, Franci Worthington Valence, Michael Wilbanks, Sarah Coffee, Pam Elder, Hugh Britt, Alisha Ammons, Cathrine Green, Madelyn Harbison, Tannis McCombs, Suzee Lee, Wendy Peek and Anthony Sanders.

The show will open Dec. 9 with a 7:30 p.m. performance and a reception.

Other evening performances are set for Dec. 10, Dec. 15, Dec. 16 and Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee performance will be held Dec. 11 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $16 for general admission and $13 for students and seniors.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (205) 621-2128, email info@southcitytheatre. com or visit Southcitytheatre.com.

South City Theatre is located in Alpine Square, 2969 Pelham Parkway, Suite J-K, in Pelham.

“It will get you in a holiday mood,” Love said.

“Come for a good time.” l

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

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

Business Connections “Keeping It Real” Program Making the Rounds with 9th Grade Shelby County Students!

2016 Presenting Sponsor:

Newsletter

The Chamber’s Education Work Group launched the 4th year of its “Keeping It Real” Program. This program teaches 9th grade students about “real world” life choices by giving them a randomassigned “life scenario” which includes marital/ family status, education, job and salary.

The students then pay bills, make decisions on increasing education, adding a second job, etc. based on the randomassigned scenario. Each year this program has been an eyeopening experience for the 9th

graders and the volunteers that assist with the program.

The Chamber is seeking volunteers on December 9 at Montevallo High School.

Volunteers would manage a station and assist the students as they make decisions

“paying bills” and make “life choices” based their situation.

If you or your colleagues, are interested in being a volunteer, please call Keyla Handley, Director, Community & Investor Development at 663-4542, ext. 106, or email keyla@

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.

2017 Legislative Preview Luncheon with Shelby County Delegation The Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Work Group will host a Legislative Preview Luncheon featuring the Shelby County state legislative delegation as they prepare for the upcoming 2017 legislative session scheduled to begin on February 7. This meeting will provide area

business people with the opportunity to meet with the County’s state legislative delegation prior to the State Legislature’s convening in Montgomery.

The luncheon will be from 11:30AM - 1:00PM on Wednesday, January 4 and feature a brief presentation from the delegation followed

2016 Presenting Sponsor:

by a “question & answer” period for attendees.

The program will be held at Jefferson State Community

College’s Shelby Campus (4600 Valleydale Road, Birmingham, AL 35242).

The investment is $15 for Chamber investors, and $25 for “Future” investors.

Seating is limited, so please RSVP by no later than Friday, December 30 by calling 6634542 or via e-mail at info@ shelbychamber.org.

December 2016 | 53 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Newsletter

Chamber’s 2nd Annual Business Outlook Conference & 36th Annual Meeting Combined for Joint Mega-Event on January 25 Mark your calendar for Wednesday, January 25, as the Chamber will be holding two signature events that day at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena!

First, the Chamber’s 2nd Annual Business Outlook Conference featuring a panel of top-level executives from various business sectors in Shelby County (banking, real estate, healthcare, retail, small business, etc.) will provide their business outlook for Shelby County. The panel presentation will begin at 9:30AM This 2nd Annual Conference is co-hosted by the University of Montevallo and the Greater Shelby

Presented in 2016 by:

County, Montevallo and South Shelby chambers. Following the panel presentation, Dr. Stephen Craft, Dean of the Stephens Business School at the University of Montevallo, will provide an overview during lunch that day on what 2017 will look like for Shelby County.

The 2017 Business Outlook for Shelby County will be

Co-hosts:

the featured presentation at the Chamber’s 36th Annual Meeting scheduled to begin at 11:00AM. Prior to Dr. Craft’s presentation, the Chamber will celebrate the past year’s accomplishments under 2016 Chair Paul Rogers’ leadership

and kick-off the new year of programs and activities under 2017 Chamber Chair Keith Brown.

A limited number of tickets for $20 per person for Chamber investors ($40 for “Future” investors) and reserved Chairman’s, Platinum, Gold, Silver and Corporate tables of 8 for both events are available. For more information, or to make a reservation, please contact Payton Thomas at payton@ shelbychamber.org or by telephone at 663-4542, ext.

105.

Trust matters.

INTRODUCING SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTS Visit amfirst.org to learn more.

Available to qualifying members only.

54 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

Federally insured

by NCUA

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

27th Annual Golf FORE! Education Four Teams Place in Tournament While all of our golfers were winners at our 27th Annual Golf FORE! Education Tournament held in October at Timberline

Golf Club, Calera, we would like to recognize the following golf teams for earning spots in the tournament.

Presented in 2016 by:

Second Place: Shelby County Reporter

Eighth Place: Central State Bank

Fourteenth Place: Renasant Bank

Newsletter

First Place: Bryant Bank

There were numerous contest holes with winners, tons of valuable door prizes given away and other teams that placed to win prizes too.

Our tournament mixes up the winning team numbers to keep it interesting at the conclusion of play. Thank you to our 2016 presenting

sponsor HEALTHSOUTH Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital. And thank you to everyone that participated in our tournament. Your

participation ensures our 2017 Workforce Development Programs for Shelby County Students will continue to make a postive impact.

December 2016 | 55 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New Investors (as of 9/29/2016-11/1-2016)

Alabama National Guard / 22nd Recruiting & Retention Battallion Alabaster Trophy Company Con-Site Services Inc. Farmers Insurance - Joseph Buff Agency Holiday Inn Express & Suites of Alabaster Jones Orthodontics Metro Companies

Montgomery

Government - State

Alabaster Chelsea Chelsea Alabaster Birmingham Pelham

Advertising Specialties Construction Insurance Lodging Dental Storage

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

Newsletter

Ring-In the Holiday Season with December 15 Business After Hours Shelby County’s premier business networking event has a “holiday” theme this month to “celebrate the season” at the next Business After Hours event presented by Shelby County Newspapers.

Bring plenty of business cards, come ready to make some serious business contacts and earn a chance

to win some prizes on December 15 from 5:30PM7:00PM at Holiday Inn Express Pelham, 260 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham. The cost -which includes hot, heavy hors d’oeuvres and two beverage coupons -- for any Chamber investor is $10 per person and $20 for “Future” investors.

Reservations are required,

Host Sponsor

2016 Presenting Sponsor:

so please register via email at info@shelbychamber.org, by phone at 663-4542 or online at www.shelbychamber.org by December 12.

Don’t Forget To Give Your Feedback on 2017 Business Climate!

Your Greater Shelby County Chamber is teaming up again this year -- with the University of Montevallo’s Stephens College of Business -- to determine what Shelby County business people think our local 2017 business outlook will look like.

To do that, we’re asking Chamber investors to take a few moments to complete our 2017 Business Climate Survey -- developed by the Chamber’s Small Business Work Group & Dr. Stephen Craft, Dean of the Stephens College of Business -- to 56 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

provide important feedback on business issues affecting your company in 2017.

All individual responses will be kept confidential,

but the overall results will be released and shared in composite during the Chamber’s 2017 Business Outlook Conference co-

hosted by the Stephens College of Business. In addition, the information will also be shared with economic developers, elected officials and the media so we’ll all have a better idea of what business people like you think 2017 will hold for Shelby County.

You can complete the survey by going on-line at www.shelbychamber.org and complete the survey there. You can access the survey by clicking on the “2017 Business Outlook Survey” rotator slide on the front page of the site.

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Celebrating Growth

2016 Ribbon Co-sponsor

2016 Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

Thank you Pelham Flowers by Desiree’ for providing the ribbon and bows for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies and Cake Art by Cynthia Bertolone for providing a cake for the Ambassador of the Month.

Congratulations to Brittani Morris State Farm on the grand opening/ ribbon cutting ceremony of her full service insurance agency in the Propst Promenade Alabaster. Brittani was joined in support by Mayor Marty Handlon, City Officials, family and Ambassadors.

Congratulations to Selective Management Services on the grand opening of it’s new location in Pelham. They provide neighborhood management services, from administration and financial management to maintenance and covenant enforcement.

Newsletter

Snapshots

Brookwood Health Shelby Baptist Medical Center in Alabaster hosted the recent CoffeeNet event. Presented in 2016 by Cahaba Valley Computer Services, LLC, CoffeeNet events are designed for investors to network before heading to the office.

The Chamber held its 3rd Annual Industry Block Party featuring a presentation by Alabama Technology Network for participating in Manufacturing Day 2016. Guests heard comments by Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon, John Browning, Cahaba Valley Computer Services, LLC and Chris Grace, Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Charlie Stevens, Thompson Tractor Company, Alabaster, and host of the Block Party, concluded the program. Guests then enjoyed refreshments, networking and tours of the facility.

Investors enjoyed learning about the history of the Chamber, benefits, upcoming events, sponsorship opportunities, how to become involved through networking activities and through joining a Chamber Work Group. Presented in 2016 by Mutual Savings Credit Union, investors learned about the credit union and enjoyed a “free lunch” provided by this sponsorship.

Students learned about making “real-world” budgeting choices at the latest “Keeping It Real” Program held for 9th graders at Calera High School. Co-sponsored in 2016 by Central State Bank and The UPS Store Caldwell Mill Rd/ Valleydale, this important program teaches students about education, cost of living, budgeting and making life choices based on a “random-assigned” scenario.

December 2016 | 57 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Newsletter

Ambassador of the Month

Congratulations to Vicki Everett, Juice Plus+ Franchise Owner, for earning Ambassador of the Month. Vicki has been an Ambassador with the Chamber for more than five years and loves promoting Shelby County, the great county she lives and works in daily!

She is a former teacher whose passion is educating and counseling children and adults about the role whole food nutrition plays in our health and our lifestyle. Juice Plus+ has been a daily part of Vicki’s life for more than 15 healthy years and she feels ethically and professionally responsible to share it with others. Juice Plus+ is a 23 year old global business, reaching 20+ countries, and is the most thoroughly researched brand name whole food nutritional product in the world with 30+ studies published in peer reviewed medical journals.

Juice Plus is not a vitamin.

Most importantly, Juice Plus+ is 32 vine ripened vegetables, fruits, berries and 2 grains picked fresh from THE FARM to CAPSULE or SOFT CHEW FORM. Additionally, THE TOWER GARDEN by JUICE PLUS, an aeroponic vertical gardening system for the patio or poolside, serves from THE TOWER to THE TABLE.

58 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

GSCCC Board of Directors (as of 01/01/16)

Officers Paul Rogers NobleBank & Trust (Chair) Keith Brown Jefferson State Community College (Chair-elect)

Vicki is active in her community and throughout Shelby County with her church, professional and community organizations and is an Ambassador with the Greater Shelby County and South Shelby County Chambers of Commerce.

Ultimately, Vicki’s passion is giving back to the community with her time and talents.

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

Ambassador Program Presented in 2016 by:

Lisa McMahon Warren Averett, LLC (Immediate Past Chair) John Browning Cahaba Valley Computer Services (Vice Chair, Business Development & Support) Jim Purvis A. C. Legg, Inc. (Vice Chair, Communications & Marketing) Kathy Copeland White Rock Quarries – Vincent Hills (Vice Chair, Community & Workforce Development) David Platt Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama (Vice Chair, Finance & Administration) Joe Meads Sain Associates (Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs) Charlie Stevens Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. (Vice Chair, Investor Development)

Matthew Hogan (2016) Bama Budweiser Gregg Maercker (2016) First Commercial Bank - Retired Bill Connor (2017) America’s First Federal Credit Union Matt Fridy (2017) Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt Chris Grace (2017) Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Katie McDowell (2017) Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Michael Smith (2017) The GREAT, The GOOD and The GONE Craig Sorenson (2017) SouthWest Water Company Jeff Brown (2018) Brownstone Marketing Solutions William Carroll (2018) Armstrong Relocation Companies Alex Dudchock (2018) Shelby County Brian Massey (2018) St. Vincent’s Health System Bob Phillips (2018) Shelby Baptist Medical Center Ashley Robinett (2018) Alabama Power Company Tracey Morant Adams (*) Renasant Bank

Board of Directors Tim Benefield (2016) Buffalo Rock Company

Brandon Greve (*) Regions Bank

Linda Cencula (2016) Avadian Credit Union

Mark Griggs (*) Summer Classics

Steve Chapman (2016) Alabama Gas Corporation

Mark Meadows (*) Chick-fil-A @ Inverness

Bruce Fryer (2016) Lhoist North America

(*) Serving a one-year term in 2016

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Join in Shelby County’s Progress By Serving On A Chamber Work Group

Business Week” activities held annually.

Governmental Affairs Work Group Serve as the liaison between our elected officials at the local, state and federal levels and our investors, regarding business/commerce specific issues. Coordinate development of the Chamber’s annual Public Policy Agenda as well as Montgomery Drive-In. Education Work Group Provide information with an emphasis on career development and the promotion of a qualified workforce. Organize the “Keeping It Real” Program, annual Career Awareness Fair program and Student &

Educator of the Year Awards recognition.

Health Services Work Group Promote the importance of good health, wellness and education for Shelby County businesses, provide recommendations for the Health Focus of the Month in Business Connections, host Annual “Healthcare Professionals of the Year” program and coordinate the annual Healthy Lifestyles Expo.

Ambassadors Work Group Serve as goodwill Ambassadors between the Chamber and new or relocated businesses. Assists with Chamber events, programs, ribbon-cuttings,

ground-breakings and other outreach efforts as needed.

Entrepreneur Roundtable Program I (ERT) A program for the individual responsible for the direction of the company, and with the authority to make final decisions, can gain valuable insights through monthly meetings with similar individuals from other companies. There is an application process for this program and an additional annual expense covers breakfast or lunch.

Entrepreneur Roundtable Program 280 (ERT 280) A program -- specific to businesses located on or near the Highway 280 corridor -- for the individual responsible for the direction of the company and with the authority to make final decisions, can gain valuable insights through monthly meetings with similar individuals from other companies. There is an application process for this program and an additional annual expense covers breakfast or lunch.

Hand Hygiene: Clean Hands Saves Lives Keeping hands clean through hand hygiene is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water.

Hand washing is like a “do-it-yourself” vaccine -it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub for 20 seconds, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of illness so you

2016 Presenting Sponsor:

can stay healthy. Regular hand washing, particularly before and after certain activities like eating, toileting, changing diapers, before and after applying cosmetics, and blowing your nose, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent

the spread of germs to others. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol (using the quantity recommended on the label) and rub over all surfaces of your hands and fingers until dry. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick.

Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc. gov/handwashing/when-

how-handwashing.html Article submitted by: Janet Chance RN, BSN, CIC, MPSL, CPHQ Infection Preventionist Healthsouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital December 2016 | 59 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

There are numerous opportunities for involvement with the Chamber. The following is a list of Work Groups along with a brief description of each. These Work Groups meet on a monthly basis throughout the year. If you’d like to participate in one or more Work Groups to be involved in these programs and activities, please contact the Chamber at 663-4542.

Existing Business & Industry Work Group Recognize and support local industries through tours, legislative actions, seminars and other appropriate means.

Organize the annual Industry Appreciation Event, Industry Block Party, development of a Manufacturers Roundtable, host an annual Recycling Day event and maintain the Green Business Program.

Small Business Work Group Promote the economic success of small businesses through a variety of events, seminars, promote monthly mentorship sessions and the Go and Grow workshops.

Organize annual “Small

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER Events

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.

December 2016

Newsletter

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South Shelby Chamber Luncheon 11:30AM - 1:00PM Columbiana First Baptist Church, 208 North Main Street, Columbiana Investment: $12. Reservation required.

Ambassadors Work Group 11:30AM - 1:00PM Sponsor: NobleBank & Trust Small Business Work Group 4:00PM - 5:00PM Sponsor: Brownstone Marketing Solutions “Keeping It Real” Program 7:30AM - 3:00PM Co-sponsors: Central State Bank & The UPS Store Caldwell Mill Rd/ Hoover Montevallo High School, 980 Oak St, Montevallo Volunteers needed.

Contact Keyla Handley, 663-4542, ext. 106.

Health Services Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM

Education Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Shelby County Instructional Service Center 601 First Street South, Alabaster

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Entrepreneur Roundtable 280 11:30AM - 1:00PM

Entrepreneur Roundtable I 7:30AM - 8:30AM

Existing Business & Industry Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM iBERIABANK 2695 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham

Annual Holiday Business After Hours 5:30PM - 7:00PM Sponsor: Shelby County Reporter Holiday Inn Express - Pelham 260 Cahaba Valley Rd, Pelham Reservations requested by December 12.

Investment: $10 investors, $20 “Future” investors.

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

Chamber Closed for Christmas Holiday

YOUR CHAMBER AT WORK Facebook: 37 New Likes, 101 Visits and 3,064 Post Reaches,Total Likes 2,664.

Twitter: 2,636 Followers, 185 Tweets, 22K Tweet impressions, 225 Profile Visits and 10 Mentions.

Responded to 131 requests for business & community information.

Notarized 40 “Certificates of Origin” for Shelby County Companies

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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3 5 Riverwoods Fall Community Home Tour Hundreds of guests toured two houses in the Riverwoods community while enjoying food and beverages at the Fall Community and Home Tour Kickoff Party on Thursday, Oct. 6, in Helena.

1. Adam Mitchell, Matthew Ray, Steve Cook, Damian Gilbert, Sheri Hix and Brad Smith 2. Sarah Stinebaugh and Sarah Drexler 3. Rick and Margie Nelson 4. David Martin and David Estreicher 5. Leslie Holsombeck, Rob Dreher and Peggy Turner 6. Katy Murphy and Ashley Statum 7. Melissa Gilbert, Chad Maness, Robert Bygrave and Katie Glass 8. Tamra Courson, Gwen Vinzant, Sarah Waltz, Scott Underwood and Kaye Stone

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December 2016 | 61

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Greystone Ladies Club October luncheon

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The Greystone Ladies Club gathered at the Founders Clubhouse on Oct. 12 for a monthly luncheon.

1. Hiltrud Hollibaugh, Pat McCanna, Jannie Justice and Joan Dye 2. Trudy Vaughan and Krystal Phillips 3. Pat Coshatt and Hendree Moore 4. Wilma Thompson and Therese Haselden 5. Solmaz Oget and Suevaughn Hicks 6. Mary Rankin and Kathy Granger 7. Barbara Brickner, Breanna Brickner and Sierra Earle 8. Judy Arnold and Suevaughn Hicks 9. Ann Layne, Ranea Breen and Myrtis Horton

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10 Celebrating 50 Years

HOMEWOOD HOOVER CHELSEA ALABASTER CULLMAN

Breathing should be the last thing on your mind.

TRUSSVILLE

Make an appointment with our board-certified allergists today.

10. Peggy Devane, Julie Kim and Myrtis Horton 11. Eleanor Hall and Solmaz Oget 12. Luma Hammoudi, Julie Kim and Roula Hakim 13. Denise Tassone, Carole Marks and Mary Sue Ludwig

Call 205.871.9661 alabamaallergy.com

Weily Soong, MD Maxcie Sikora, MD Meghan Lemke, MD Sunena Argo, MD Amy CaJacob, MD

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December 2016 | 63

SHELBY SPOTTED

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3 UM Founders Day

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The University of Montevallo celebrated its 120th Founders Day on Oct. 13.

1. Amanda Currie, Haley Smith, Lillie Childers, Alex Turner, Giselle Casadaban, Claire DeRosa, Emme Long, Brinkley Jones and Dr. Tiffany Wang 2. Tyon Hudson, Ivy Jo Davis, Haley Nichols and Nick Preston 3. Reed Strength and Jacob Guyton 4. Zachary Brown and Tiffany Bunt 5. Madi Niven and Paris Nelson 6. Rachel Holmes and Taylor Bounds 7. Meredith Waldrop, Kira Thomas and B.J. Posey 8. Jessica Ford and Christie Johnson 9. Maddy Vines and Megan Reece

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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Big Brothers Big Sisters matching

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby County matches high school students with elementary students to serve as mentors.

Over 200 Shelby County students will be matched in the program this year.

4

1. Adrian Zow Jr. and Adrian Zavala 2. Carly Street and Taylor Sellers 3. Mercadees Lilly and Mikayla Cardwell 4. Jillian Harris and Khloe Booker

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at Shelb y Ridge

December 2016 | 65

SHELBY SPOTTED

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3 Gold Side college night mixer

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On Sept. 22, UM students attended the Gold Side mixer in preparation for college night, the university’s annual homecoming tradition.

1. Morgan Alford, Bailey Klepac, Jess Culver and Meredith Morgan 2. Abby Betts and Ryann Taylor 3. Michaela Moody and Mandy Parkins 4. Marcus Moore 5. Blane Freeman and Amanda Swift 6. Jared Wright.

7. Jill Brantley, Samantha Hines, Somer Hall, Braiden Gottier and (front) Meredith Morgan 8. Malik Van Hoozer-Ellitt 9. Catherine Renda and Alex Binion

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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Purple Side college night mixer

On Sept. 22, UM students attended the purple side mixer in preparation for college night, the university’s annual homecoming tradition.

1. Jazmine Tillman, Hannah Irelan, Anna Callan and DeAndra Hodge 2. Giselle Casadaban and Eliah McCutchen 3. Kahlil Kyles and Abby Newman 4. Jonathan Mendoza and Spencer Anglin 5. Brooke Morgan, Lelia Poole and Zoey Edison 6. Eliah McCutchen and Maggie Coe 7. Celia Venable, Tyler Allen, David Pohler and Beth Vaughan 8. Zebulon Lee and Molly Green 9. Madison Johnson, Spencer Anglin and Cadley Jackson

December 2016 | 67

SHELBY SPOTTED

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3 Shelby Humane Society’s Bark & Wine

More than 140 people attended the sold-out Bark & Wine benefitting Shelby Humane Society this summer at Greystone Country Club in Hoover, where guests were treated to dinner, drinks and a live auction with Jack Granger.

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1. Karen Woodstock, Stephanie Clayton and Lynn Cox 2. Sandra Vallora, Donna McFeeters and Cindy Beatty 3. Katie and Chris Stipes 4. Donna McFeeters and Cindy Porter 5. Lacey Bacchus and Ryan Nelson 6. Darrell and Tamela Seymour 7. Vondreau family 8. Shelby Humane Board of Directors

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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Shelby County Arts Council Adult Juried Art Show

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The Shelby County Arts Council held its Eighth Annual Adult Juried Art Show on Friday, Sept. 30.

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1. Rusty Nichols and Chris M. Brown 2. Elizabeth Smith with Ann and Mayor Stancil Handley 3. Sandra Annonio, Vicki Everett and Lisa Shapiro 4. Sheila Finley and Ken Sawyer

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December 2016 | 69

SHELBY SPOTTED

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4 5 Parent days at Mt Laurel Elementary

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Parents flooded the classrooms of Mt Laurel Elementary School during the week of Oct. 17, for parenting days. Kids showed their parents some of the neat things they have learned throughout the school year.

1. Jim, Camira and Dawn Rose 2. Ryley and Allison Redden 3. Julia and Jaley Young 4. Lorie and Lucy Dorn 5. Brady and Derrick Moore 6. Kate and Lauren Nickles 7. Michelle and Gracie Williams 8. Ying Li Liu with her mother 9. Jill and Sue-Ellen Bensinger 10. Kathy and Kate Bradley

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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UM College Colors Day

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University of Montevallo students, faculty and staff showed off their school spirit by wearing purple and gold for National College Colors Day on Sept. 2.

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1. Vanessa Cottingham, Jerrie Rochester, Kathy Bailey, Freddie the Falcon and KaSandra Russaw 2. Angie Kelly, Back: Bailey Judd, Davonte Chamblin, Cedric Norman and Cassie Moore 3. Tiffany Bunt, Kira Thomas, Julie Haggard, Alyssa Luna and Jacob Guyton 4. Ashlee Beck, Freddie the Falcon and Audrey Crawford

December 2016 | 71

SHELBY SPOTTED

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4 5 Barktoberfest

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Hundreds of families and their four-legged friends came out to the Helena Amphitheater on Saturday, Oct. 15, for the second annual Barktoberfest sponsored

by Two-by-Two Animal Rescue.

1. Karen Hardy, Shani Selman and Susan Willard 2. Tony Cox and Joe Kojis 3. Allie Lott, Marianna Stamba and Katie Watkins 4. Tammy Carter and Tonni Henderson 5. Weston and Dalton Fuller 6. Leigh and Skylar Kelly 7. Charlie Graham 8. Dylan Williamson, Seth Grice, Katie Kemp and Valyn Williamson 9. Gary and Kellie McKinney 10. Jason and Piper Powell

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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Marketing in the Digital Age miniconference

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Marketing and Communications students at the University of Montevallo hosted the first Marketing in the Digital Age mini-conference.

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1. Anna Nolen and Emily Lepper 2. Will Granthum 3. Natonya Amerson 4. Daniel Pardo 5. Matt Crowson 6. Colby Quinn

December 2016 | 73

SHELBY SPOTTED

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3 Helena-Vestavia football game

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Helena fans traveled to Vestavia to watch the Huskies take on the Rebels in a football game at Thompson Reynolds Stadium on Friday, Sept. 23.

1. Katie Beam, Cooper Beam, Elizabeth Bromley and Kristy Parker 2. Chaney Handley, Laney Bruner and Avery Barnett 3. David and Kim Willis 4. Farrah and Ruthie Stuckey 5. Linda Tolbert May and Carolyn Miller 6. EJ and Cindy Brophy 7. Olivia Moon and Alex Erwin 8. Mike and Carly Blevins with Jane Jones

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CLASSIFIEDS

Marketplace Shelby Living • 205.669.3131

AB Garage Auto Repair 201 Patton Street West Jemison Will compare prices. All car types. We make cars and customers happy.

Thank you!

(205)688-2055 Acceptance Loan Company, Inc. Personal Loans! Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans!

224 Cahaba Valley Rd, Pelham 205-663-5821 B&J Metal Fabricators Professional sheet metal replacement and fabrication on classic cars/ trucks. $65.00/hour for labor Parts/supplies additional Quotes based per job. Media blasting available. Powder coating coming soon.

Montevallo area.

(205)665-4687 (205)2969988” FIREWOOD OAK - $25 Rack HICKORY - $30 Rack Pick up yours today at Columbiana Wood Products 21421 Hwy 25, Columbiana (205) 671-5202 Welder Training Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com Tired of high cable prices?

NO MONEY DOWN! 50 channels-$39.99 190 channels-$49.99 290 channels $64.99 Alabama Dish 256-438-4039 Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-3894530.

For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205965-8657

ShelbyLiving.com

AFFORDABLE HIGH-SPEED INTERNET Available where you live! Call Today for this Limited Time Offer! www.pbsinternet. com, 800-266-4409.

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

Jack F. Granger #873

Professional Sitter 22 yrs experience in healthcare.

Excellent people skills. Enjoy helping people. Duties/ experience includes: Personal hygiene, light housekeeping, etc. Will consider live-in.

Rent-A-Sitter 205-253-4320

3/2 Garden Home with 1-car garage Has w/d hook-ups and dishwasher.

Easy access to I-65.

Rent $1095. Call for Rent Special.

(205)433-9811

CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/Pelham Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Residential Roofing Specialists Shingles, Copper, & All Metal Roofing. Over 30 years’ experience.

Versatile Contractors, Inc VCI@bellsouth.net Earl Simpson 205-965-1500 Paul Jackson 205-369-8278 Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website www. capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT World Heritage www.whhosts.com 1-800-888-9040 or 404-307-8830 info@world-heritage.org 1BD Fully Furnished Weekly Rates Starting at $170 Free Utilities.

No Credit Check.

Two Budgetel locations at 1902 Highway 31 South, Hoover 205-985-9117 and 5249 Highway 280 East, Birmingham Call 205-991-0100 or www.budgetel.com

TARGET AUCTION Advanced Real Estate Marketing 800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com Cash in on High Gold Prices!

We Buy Gold! Huge selection of Vintage Jewelry! Layaway for Christmas.

Cash World Pawn & Jewelry Corner of Hwy 280 & 119 205-995-1018 CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda • $1.35 sq.yd.

Meyers Zoysia • $2.50 sq.yd.

Empire Zoysia • $3.00 sq. yd.

DELIVERY AVAILABLE 662-365-3152 www.caglesod. com HIRING Production Workers in McCalla IMMEDIATE OPENINGS! Various shifts, temp-to-hire positions!

Apply online at: www.adeccousa.com or call our office at 205-497-6400 ext. 2033 OFFICE ASSISTANT PELHAM AREA Answering phones, filing, cleaning office, ordering & selling parts.

Start: $8.65/hr, benefits after 90 days.

Send resume to 205-985-8804 orJoel@advancecutting.com.

Need A Job? Need A Better Job? AIDT recruits, screens and trains qualified applicants for outstanding jobs statewide. All at NO COST to you!

Visit www.aidt.edu/jobs today to view your opportunities!

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.

Clanton (205)280-0002 Pelham (205)444-9774 APPLY NOW! Baugh Ford in Clanton Hiring Diesel Mechanic Ford certified highly preferred.

Email cover letter/resume to autojobsclanton@gmail.com Fax to (205)755-6443 Or apply in person.

Bibb Medical Center & Nursing Home Currently Recruiting For: •Medical Lab Tech Full-time position, requires 2 year associates degree.

•Medical Technologist Full-time, 7 on-7 off, blood bank experience required.

Apply at: Hospital Information Desk 208 Pierson Ave., Centreville, AL Email resume: bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter.com Or Apply Online: bibbmedicalcenter.com Bibb Medical Center & Nursing Home Now Hiring For: RN • Labor & Delivery PM - F/T position AL RN license required.

Apply at: Hospital Information Desk 208 Pierson Ave., Centreville, AL Email resume: bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter.com Or Apply Online: bibbmedicalcenter.com

Bibb Medical Center & Nursing Home Now Hiring For: Dietary Manager • Full time For Long term care and acute care hospital.

Responsible for food service for patient care and non-patient care Apply at: Hospital Information Desk 208 Pierson Ave., Centreville, AL Email resume: bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter.com Or Apply Online: bibbmedicalcenter.com IMMEDIATE POSITION AVAILABLE CLASS-A & CLASS-B ROUTE DRIVERS WELL-ESTABLISHED 100+ YEAR COMPANY NOW HIRING ROUTE DRIVERS. HOME NIGHTS/WEEKENDS. LOOKING FOR HARD WORKING DRIVERS TO JOIN OUR TEAM. CLEAN MVR/BG CHECK REQUIRED. COMPETITIVE PAY/ BENEFITS: BCBC, 401K, PAID HOLIDAYS/ VACATION, COMPANY FURNISHED UNIFORMS. CALL 205-425-1711 OR EMAIL: adria.lupien@ bhtonline.com STOCKERS Distributor in Alabaster has an immediate need for stockers.

Heavy duty lifting is required.

We offer a Monday-Friday work week, competitive pay, and benefits.

Call our job line at 205-397-1781.

BTC Wholesale Distributors BURGER KING JOIN OUR MANAGEMENT TEAM Schuster Enterprises, Inc., a Franchisee of Burger King, is looking for Management professionals who have a desire to join a team where people are the most important asset, where growth is based on ability and where opportunity is abundant.

Benefits: Competive Wages, Health & Life Insurance, Paid Vacations, 401(k).

Apply online at: www.jointeamschuster.com.

(EOE - DRUG FREE WORKPLACE)

December 2016 | 75

JOIN OUR TEAM! MAINTENANCE ENGINEER FOR A BURGER KING FRANCHISE Schuster Enterprises, Inc., a Franchisee of Burger King, is looking for a person with skills in HVAC and Refrigeration, Light Electrical and Plumbing.

•Competitive Wage based on skills and experience, annual reviews.

•Health and Life Insurance •401 (k) Profit Sharing Plan •Paid Vacations •Maintenance Vehicle & Tools furnished FOR INTERVIEW CALL DAVID STEVENS (706)563-3066 (EOE—DRUG FREE WORKPLACE) PAINT CREWS Nationally branded painting company for subcontractor work in the Birmingham area. Must have own insurance, equipment & vehicle.

CertaPro Painters 205-277-9999 Chase Learning Center in Pelham is NOW HIRING. •FT/PT Nursery •PT After School $8 per hour. 5 days per week.

Great for college students.

205-620-1616 Masters Level Counselor needed part time.

Chilton County Treatment Center 205-755-3400 Ready to Work for the #1 Brand in the World?

Now Hiring Class A-CDL Drivers for Coca-Cola Bottling United. Go to www.cocacolaunited.com to apply!

COLUMBIANA HEALTH & REHAB LPN Charge Nurse PRN 12 hour shifts Excellent Salary.

Interested applicants should send resume to: shannon.bell @northporthealth.com Coosa Valley Medical Center OR Nurse Manager RN (Labor/Delivery): 3-11pm RNs (Surgical Services): day-shift RNs (Med/Surg): all-shifts RNs (Geriatric/Psych): Sign On Bonus Email resume to: Janean.

Crawford@cvhealth.net or to apply, go to www.cvhealth.net

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DCH Health System Caring. For Life. $5,000 *Sign-on Bonus for full time RNs *For More Info Contact Annie.Miller@dchsystem.com Apply online at: www.dchsystem.com IMMEDIATELY HIRING FOR: Warehouse, Production & Automotive Assembly in Calera and Clanton.

Temp-to-Hire positions, great pay rates!

Clanton (205)588-6716 Birmingham (205)822-8234 Apply online: www.elwoodjobs.com $3000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area. Must have class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience. Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.

THE FISH MARKET RESTAURANT CASHIERS & SERVERS NEEDED. NOW HIRING HAPPY People with GREAT Attitudes! Must be Flexible/Hours Vary Apply in Person ONLY Hwy 280 & Hwy 31 Locations PLANT MAINTENANCE POSITION Desired Skills: •Minimum 10-years experience in plant industrial maintenance environment (mechanical/hydraulics/electrical/ fabrication/pneumatic) •Strong electrical trouble shooting skills in high-voltage as well as low-voltage •Ability to work on PLC is required Apply At: Foley Products, Clanton or online: www.foleyproducts.com Foley Products Company is an EOE. Now taking applications for: •Cook •Bartender •Waitress •Line Dance Instructor for growing business in Clanton.

205-755-4949 or 334-235-0228 NOW HIRING! Full-Time Assistants Full & Part-Time Teacher Positions Grace Community School and

Daycare For more information, visit our website at www. thewhaleschool.com or call us at (205) 769-6209 Hiring Stylists in Calera Average Pay $12 & Up 205-966-7254 Hardee’s Now Hiring •Crew Members/Hoover •Management/Calera Email resume to: hardees2007@bellsouth.net LPN’s, RN’s, CNA’s Full-time & part-time • 2nd & 3rd Shift Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Ctr Dr Clanton, AL 35045 Tree Climber / Bucket Operator Top pay guaranteed.

5 yrs exp. CDL required.

Drug Test Required.

205-836-2038 or 205-229-7144 Truck Driver / Debris Loader Operator CDL Required. Full or Part Time.

Drug Test Required.

205-836-2038 or 205-229-7144 Kelly Educational Staffing® We’re hiring!

• Substitute teachers • Aides • Cafeteria • Clerical • Custodial positions for Shelby County School District and Alabaster City Schools.

Please call 205-682-7062 We Are An Equal Opportunity Employer Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com 3800 square foot Daycare for Lease. Fully equipped with commercial kitchen for 65 children. Great location.

5560 Cahaba Valley Road Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-2022 WE HAVE JOBS! · Machine Operator- Moody · Packers- Moody/ Hoover · Paint Line- Moody · Pickers/Packers- Alabaster Lyons HR www.lyonshr.com/career-search (205)943-4820 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. Apply with the receptionist.

205-755-3430 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 Class-A CDL DriverDry Bulk/PneumaticBirmingham,AL Must be 25+, have clean driving record, two-years tractor/trailer experience.

Will train drivers on tank. Good benefits-almost all drivers home everynight.

Contact Keith 205-438-4959 Noland Health Services Now Hiring RN’s Day & Night Shift Available Noland Hospital Shelby Located in Shelby Baptist Medical Center Alabaster To Apply Visit: www.nolandhealth.com Production / Manufacturing Vance, Alabama Starting pay: $12.00 – $14.50 /hr.

• Have 2 years+ Production/ Manufacturing experience.

• Have Recently Lived in Alabama at least 2 years.

• Have A High School Diploma or GED. • Are at least 18 years old.

Complete your application on line at www.naonsite.com Warehouse Position in Calera Starting pay $10/hr. Flexible shifts.

Requirements: • Recently Lived in Alabama at least 1 year.

• High School Diploma or GED. • At least 18 years old.

Complete your application on line at www.naonsite.com Odyssey Early Schools.

Birmingham’s Best Daycare/ Preschool is Seeking Experienced Teachers.

4 Year Degree Preferred.

Full-Time. BEST Pay. FULL Benefits (Insurance, Leave, Holidays).

Call Annie Fine 205-991-0039.

Manufacturing/Assembly positions available in Calera & McCalla areas. Full time hours, all shifts available. Call today 205-267-3910 We’re searching for a talented & trustworthy Service Technician to service and maintain our Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen location in Birmingham!

We offer: in-house training, competitive pay, 401K, full-time, year-round employment, great benefits, including company truck.

Qualified candidates must have 3 years’ HVAC/Refrigeration experience and CFC Certification Type II or better. Knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment is a plus. We are looking for team players who have the desire to continually develop new skills.

Duties include: maintenance and service of restaurant kitchen equipment, including laundry equipment, beverage systems, boilers, ice machines, coolers, and HVAC work. We look forward to speaking with you!

To apply email your resume careers@pappas.com Pappas Restaurants is an Equal Opportunity Employer M|F|D|V|A Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately for Dump Trailer Hauling • $2000 Retention Bonus • Local Hauling • Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: www.perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC 251-470-0355 Burger King Hiring General, Assistant & Shift Managers Top Pay/Monthly Bonus/Vacation/ Medical Benefits.

3yrs fast food experience required.

Fax resume: 334-649-1112 Or apply at: www.work4bk.com OTR Class-A Driver •Montgomery, AL 3yrs Experience •$.40-$.50 Per Mile Paid Weekly •BCBS Insurance Home Weekends •EZ Press & Prepass Safety & Fuel Bonus Call: (334)288-8106

Saiia Construction Co. ISO: CDL Long-Haul Drivers.

Requirements: OTR experience driving lowboy trailers; transporting heavy oversized loads; experience with heavy equipment required; ability to work in outside environments, safety-oriented, and teamplayer. Overtime available. Great opportunity. Competitive compensation/benefit package.

Email: DVeigl@saiia.com or fax: 205-943-2258 The Salvation Army Alabaster is Hiring (Seasonal) Bell Ringers Required Skills: •Physical Ability To Lift Up To 25lbs.

•Ability To Stand •Neat Appearance •Ability To Communicate Call (205)624-4155 For Application Appointment Substitute School Bus Drivers Needed for Chilton County Schools!

If you’re interested in becoming a school bus driver, please call The School Bus Shop at 205-280-2950.

ServiceMaster WATER/FIRE TECHS Will train for water extraction/ drying/fire cleanig. Must pass background check/drug test, have reliable transportation & good driving record. Serious inquiries.

Call 205-424-4211.

Willing to Learn?

We are willing to teach!

NOW HIRING All Positions Pelham & Chelsea Great Opportunity Rewarding Career 401K/Health Ins/ Group Benefits Contact: 205-620-4455 cwomack@smithcos.com Order Selectors Food Dist. Center in Pelham Al. Day Shift: Mon-Fri. 40+ hours/ week. 10:00AM until finished (varies).

Benefits: Medical, vision, dental, vacation & 401k.

Requirements: Reading & math skills, Lift 40 lbs. repetitively, Work in -10 Temperature Apply 8:30AM-5:00PM Southeastern Food, 201 Parker Drive, Pelham, Alabama 35124 205-685-4533

St. Vincent’s Chilton is looking for: • Medical Lab Technologist-Fulltime, 7 on/7 off, Evening Shift • Unit Secretary-Med/Surg & Emergency Dept, Full-time, Nights If you are interested, please email: chiltoncountyrecruitment@stvhs. com and apply online at www.stvhs.com/careers Immediate Positions!!!!

Positions needed: Warehouse • Sales Reps • Assistant Manager • Delivery Drivers • Customer Service.

Laid back atmosphere, good pay, plenty of hours available!

Company vehicles to qualified individuals!

Call Andrew 9am-7pm • Mon-Sat at (205)490-1003 or (205)243-6337 Stevens Home Health Care Currently Hiring: Personal Care Workers Must have experience & clean background. For more info call: 334-215-0084 or 205-942-5996 (EOE) SUBWAY South Shelby County Stores Now Hiring • All Positions Looking for Sandwich Artists.

Print out the application from the link below and bring by your nearest Subway Location. http://wpc.4728. edgecastcdn.net/004728/ applications/subway-jobapplication.pdf Looking for Managers with these same traits. Please send resumes to: scottreneau@gmail. com Rogers Cartage Company Recruiting for Dry-Bulk Lime & Cement Drivers for Alabaster, AL terminal •Local/Regional Business •Increased pay package •Possibly 1-2 nights out/week due length of hauls •6-Months Class-A Tractor/ Trailer experience •Dry-bulk Lime/Cement experience helpful-not required Salary/benefits include: •Medical benefit plans from $38-$104/wk •Paid orientation approximately $720/wk Call Brian at 800-507-8848 www.tankstar.com

TaylorMade Transportation Hiring CDL Drivers for Flatbed Regional Division!

BCBS Insurance After 30 Days. To apply call: (334)366-2269 or email: s.smith@taylormadeinc.com

FLATBED DRIVERS OTR Flatbed Trucking Co. now hiring Company Drivers and Leasing Owner Operators with 2 yrs exp.

205-592-3422 www.watkinstrucking.com

TEMP FORCE HIRING NOW: Assembly and Inspection! Childersburg & Vincent. Full Time. 1st and 2nd Shifts. Entry Level OK! Apply at TempForce: (256)2458367 www.tempforcejobs.com

NOW HIRING CDL-A DRIVERS w/Haz. $5000 Sign-On Bonus.

Apply online: www.westernintl. com or Corporate Office: 979-413-2140

The Painting Company of Birmingham Immediate openings for professional residential and commercial painters. Must be able to speak English. Call 205995-5559

$5000 SIGN-ON BONUS! HIRING CDL TEAM A DRIVER Apply online: www.westernintl. com Or Contact Corporate: Western International Gas & Cylinders 979-413-2140 or 979-413-2192 (EOE)

Landscape Assisstant 6:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.

Full Time • Monday-Friday Paid health benefits.

Looking for a quick learner, with great work ethic!

Call Carrie 205-991-4564 or 205-427-5501 Security Guard Full-time and Part-time Available Great benefits. Must have pistol permit and pistol. $11/hour.

Call Carrie 991-4654 or 427-5591. or 205-427-5501 University Baptist Pre-K Montevallo Now Hiring Substitute Teachers.

(205)665-1825 OTR DRIVERS WANTED 24 years or older. Hazmat preferred but not required. Full benefit package available.

Pneumatic tank equipment. Dry bulk hauling. $500 SIGN-ON BONUS HOME EVERY OTHER WEEKEND Apply Online: vernonmilling.com 800-753-1993 Fundraisers/Greeters Needed for Charity Greeting customers OUTSIDE of Grocery, Department Stores and Special Events.

Travel involved ...Must have car, driver’s license and be willing to travel! Comp/ Exp paid...P/T WORK. Seniors welcomed!

866.212.5592 or Email resume to: jely@veteransoutreach.com

Tree Nursery Worker Needed Responsible w/mechanical skills.

To operate forklift/farm tractors/ equipment/welding/ground maintenance/service equipment/ check fluid levels/clean after use. Maintain safe/clean area.

Requires valid-DL/ reliabletransportation. 334-3652488 ASPHALT GROUNDMAN LABOR QUALIFICATIONS: •Experience Preferred •Pre-Employment drug screening •E-Verification DESCRIPTION: Load, unload, or identify materials/tools, distributing them to appropriate locations.

Follow daily schedule for areas that need greased/daily maintenance performed.

Broad areas require daily/ weekly/monthly maintenance.

Organization of tool shed, erect/dismantle braces, traffic barricades, ramps, or other temporary structures.

Notifying manager of potential safety/ equipment issues immediately. Following processes and procedures correctly.

Wearing appropriate clothing/ shoes/ personnel protective equipment.

Duties also may include asphalt labor operations which may include but not limited to: asphalt raking and shoveling.

JOB CONDITIONS: Required to work outside, sometimes in inclement weather conditions Day/some night shifts/weekends when necessary PAY RANGE & BENEFITS: Pay Based on Experience

Excellent Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama plus other medical, dental, vision and disability benefits 401K plus match Submit Application or Resume: Wiregrass Construction Company 951 Dow St •Pelham, AL 35124 205.620.4132 YARD SPOTTER Immediate Opening- F/T or P/T Class-A CDL required to shuttle trailers from truck-yard to loading area. Responsibilities: Prep trailer for loading, open curtains, roll up straps, clean debris off trailer. After trailer is loaded, strap load, close/secure curtains, NO tarping. Forklift experience a plus.

Position would be required to work in the warehouse.

Excellent benefits available for F/T positions.

Apply In Person: Woodgrain Distribution (EOE) 80 South Shelby Street, Montevallo 205-665-2546 Ext. 207 ksenecal@woodgrain.com Painters Needed!

Minimum 3 years experience w/new residential painting, dependable transportation, clean appearance. Must be Drug/Alcohol free. References Required.

Also Quality Subcontractors w/ Own Equipment. 205-6212627 Effective October 20 Dr. Gary Howard is Moving his Practice to Calera.

401-404 Airport Commons Dr. (205)665-2002 Hope to see you there!

100 Corporate Woods Drive Shelby County Airport 4,000 sq.ft. at $7-$8/ft.

13+ offices. 205-915-5044 Bad Credit?

Need a car?

Langston Motors 205-406-5886 Highway 31 in Alabaster next to Chevron.

LangstonMotors.net Ask about our guaranted credit approval!

Production Jobs MPG in Columbiana seeks quality people to work multiple shifts. Willing to train. Email resume to dcurtis@grede.com.

December 2016 | 77

OUT & ABOUT Frozen Fantasy Fun

Dec. 1

Helena Christmas Parade

movie “Frozen” on Dec. 2 South Shelby Chamber at 4 p.m. They can come in Diamond Awards Luncheon: costume if they desire. SignThe South Shelby Chamber of up is required. Kids 6 and Commerce’s Annual Diamond younger must be with an adult.

Awards Luncheon will be held Dec. 1 at the American Village’s Mt Laurel Toddler Tales: A Liberty Hall. The luncheon story program for children 19will recognize citizens and 36 months and a caregiver will businesses nominated for be held Dec. 2 from 10-10:30 different categories, such as a.m. at the Mt Laurel Library.

Citizen of the Year. This year, a Stories, songs, finger play new category, Civil Servant of and crafts make up a lively the Year, will be added to the 30-minute program designed group. This award will be for especially for short attention elected officials working and spans. For more information, planning for our communities call 991-1660. and the southern region of Shelby County. For more Dec. 3 information, call 669-9075 Helena Christmas Parade: or visit Southshelbychamber. The city of Helena will once again celebrate the holiday com. season with the 46th annual Gingerbread Houses: Come Christmas Parade on Saturday, to the Pelham Public Library Dec. 3. The theme for this for this favorite holiday year’s parade is “Put the fire tradition starting Dec. 1 at 6 out … Santa’s coming,” as the p.m. The library will provide parade will honor the city’s the houses, icing and candy, fire department. The parade and cleanup after the event. will start at 1 p.m., and lineup All attendees need is their of the floats will begin as early imagination. The cost is $5 per as 9 a.m. All floats must be in house, which needs to be paid place and ready to be judged by in advance. Call 620-6465 to 11 a.m. For more information, reserve a spot. The event will visit Cityofhelena.org.

from around the area and get some holiday shopping done.

The unique and handcrafted artwork ranges from pottery to painting, gourd art, printmaking and more.

Admission is free. For more information, call 669-0044.

of music for every member of the family will be available during Mr. Mac’s storytime at the North Shelby Library on Dec. 7 from 10:45-11:30 a.m.

All ages are welcome. For more information, call 4395504.

Dec. 5

Dec. 8

Dec. 6

2016 New Member Orientation: The South Shelby Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 New Member Orientation will be held Dec. 8 from 8:309:30 a.m. RSVP is required.

Call April Stone at 669-9075 or email her at director@ southshelbychamber.com.

Toddler Tales at North Shelby Library: Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30-minute program designed especially for short attention spans Dec. 5 from 10-10:30 a.m.

Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime.

Ages 19-36 months. For more information, call 439-5504.

Gingerbread Workshop: The Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster will host a Gingerbread Workshop on Dec. 6 at 6:15 p.m.

The workshop leader has everything for making tastylooking houses. Families must sign up in advance and pre-pay $3 per house when they sign up

by Dec. 5. If paying by check, make it out to the library. No refunds will be available. The also be held Dec. 3 and Dec. 5.

SCAC Annual Holiday Artist event will meet in the meeting Market: Come to the Shelby room. All children must be Dec. 2 Frozen Fantasy Fun: Kids 5 County Arts Council on Dec. 3 with an adult. years old and older can let it for the Annual Holiday Artist go and come to the Albert L. Market starting at 9 a.m. This Dec. 7 Scott Library in Alabaster for is a great opportunity to check Family Storytime with Mr. activities based on the popular out some talented artists Mac: Stories, puppets and lots 78 | ShelbyLiving.com

SCAC Annual Holiday Artist Market

Pete the Cat Book Club: Boys and girls 5 years old and older can join in the fun of cool cats and reading at Pete the Cat Book Club on Dec. 8 at 4 p.m. at the Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster. Sign up for a holiday edible craft. The group will meet in the meeting room.

Children age 6 and younger must be with an adult.

Teen Leadership Council Meeting: The Teen Leadership Council will meet to plan programs Dec. 8 from 6-6:30 p.m. It’s not too late to apply to be a part of the fun.

Applications are available on the website and in the teen department at the North Shelby Library. For more information, call 439-5512.

Dec. 9

to the North Shelby Library for a great time of food, fun and pictures with Santa on Dec. 10. Pictures with Santa and a Christmas craft will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Registration is required. Call or visit the library to register.

A $5 fee per person is due at the time of registration. All ages are welcome.

An Elvis Christmas: Local favorite Elvis impersonator Terry Padgett will return to the Shelby County Arts Council Black Box Theater for an evening of fun and entertainment Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.

He will sing favorite holiday Elvis hits. Tickets are $20. For more information, call 6690044.

Mt Laurel Crafty Saturday: Drop in to make a craft at the Keeping it Real at Mt Laurel Library on Dec. 10 Montevallo High School: from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All ages The Greater Shelby County with parent help. Registration Chamber of Commerce will is not required, but supplies hold the ShelbyOne Initiative are limited. Call 991-1660 for program “Keeping it Real” at more information.

Montevallo High School on Dec. 8 and Dec. 9 from 7:30 Dec. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. MHS freshmen Three on a String: Local will get a glimpse of what favorites Three on a String it costs to live in the adult are back in the Shelby County world. Anyone interested in Arts Council Black Box being a volunteer for a few Theater for a toe-tapping hours of the day can call 663- afternoon of music and 4542 or email Keyla Handley laughs on Dec. 11 at 1:30 p.m. at Keyla@shelbychamber.org. The show has something for everyone. Tickets are $25. For Open gaming: Come to the more information, call 669North Shelby Library’s teen 0044. department for board, card, Minecraft, XBOX ONE and Dec. 13 Wii games on Dec. 9 from Evening with Santa: Santa 3:30-5:45 p.m. Participants Claus and Mrs. Santa Claus must have a parent permission will greet families and listen children’s Christmas slip on file to attend. For more to information, call Kate at 439- wishes in the meeting room of the Albert L. Scott Library 5512. in Alabaster on Dec. 13 from Dec. 10 6:15-7 p.m. All children must Breakfast with Santa: Come be with an adult.

Gingerbread Workshop

the family will be available at the Mt Laurel Library on Dec. Holiday Party: Children and 16 from 11-11:30 a.m. For more their caregivers are invited to information, call 991-1660. a fun-filled morning featuring Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa Dec. 17 Claus, gingerbread man 22nd Annual Meadow Brook decorating and more in the Runs: The 22nd Annual meeting room of the Albert L. Meadow Brook Runs will be Scott Library in Alabaster on held Dec. 17, with the 5K at 9 Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and the 1-mile Fun Run a.m. All children must be at 10 a.m. at USAmeriBank, Meadow Brook Branch, with an adult.

1100 Corporate Parkway, Brunch with Santa: The Birmingham. Walkers and Pelham Public Library will pets on leash welcome. For information, visit host Brunch with Santa on more Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. For more Meadowbrookruns.org or the event’s Facebook page. information, call 620-6418.

Dec. 14

Dec. 15

Holiday Business After Hours: The Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce will hold Holiday Business After Hours at Holiday Inn Express in Pelham, 260 Cahaba Valley Road, on Dec. 15 from 5:30-7 p.m.

The cost is $10 for Chamber members ($20 for potential members) and includes hot, heavy hors d’oeuvres and two complimentary beverages.

Advance reservations are requested by Dec. 13. Contact the Chamber by phone at 6634542, info@shelbychamber. org or register online.

Dec. 20

Mt Laurel Picture Book Club: Celebrate the beloved books by Eric Carle with stories, games and a craft Dec. 20 from 4-4:45 p.m. at the North Shelby Library.

All ages are welcome.

Registration is required. For more information, call 9911660.

Dec. 21

Homeschool Hangout – Decoupage Frames: ’Tis the season for gift giving. Come and learn about the art of decoupage and make a holiday gift picture frame for a loved one Dec. 21 from 1-2 p.m. at Dec. 16 the North Shelby Library. One Mt Laurel Storytime with picture frame per registered Ms. Kristy: Stories, music homeschooler. Ages 7-12. and more for every member of Registration is required.

An Elvis Christmas

Breakfast with Santa

December 2016 | 79

WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY

Brooklyn Holt:

“It is the perfect combination of convenience and relaxation”

B

Photograph CONTRIBUTED irmingham native and Oak Mountain High School graduate Brooklyn Holt, 19, has a long list of accomplishments, and she is not slowing down. She was recently named Miss Auburn University 2017, a title she has dreamed of holding for many years. She is the daughter of Clarisse Holt and has a younger brother named Branson Holt, 18, who is only 14 months younger than Brooklyn. She is a sophomore at Auburn, where she is majoring in journalism and political science.

What do you love about Shelby County?

I love Shelby County’s pace of life.

I think it is the perfect combination of convenience and relaxation. If I want to get away from the hustle and bustle I can, but I also am only minutes from a myriad of places to go, things to do, and sites to see. Also, I have to commend the Shelby County School system. They no doubt do an outstanding job preparing their students for college. I can attest to that as a graduate of Oak Mountain High School.

What does it mean to be named Miss Auburn University 2017?

To be named Miss Auburn University is life-long dream come true. I have always wanted to attend Auburn University. I was so certain that I only applied to Auburn University. My love for this university is like none other and to be able to serve this campus and community is one of the best ways I can give back to the university that continually invests in me. I will make appearances across Auburn’s campus and community. Also, I will spend my reign promoting my platform of “Raise Your Voice for Children.” In June, I will represent Auburn University at the Miss Alabama Pageant. By winning Miss Auburn University, I received one-year full tuition.

What is your platform, and why did you choose it?

My platform is “Raise Your Voice for Children,” which addresses impoverished children and their families’ needs. My platform centers on the costly consequences to society when children’s basic needs are not met. I host “Raise Your Voice for Children” concerts with talent from across the Southeast and with all proceeds going to Children’s Miracle Network. In addition, I have recorded a CD single, titled “Raise Your Voice.” I chose my platform because I have always dreamed of using my talents to positively impact the lives of others.

When will you graduate? What are your plans after that?

I plan to graduate in 2019 with a degree in journalism and political science. I have always wanted to be a sports reporter, so I plan to pursue a career in the broadcasting arena. Also, I had the opportunity to intern with Gov. Robert Bentley this past summer, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Press Office. So, I could also see myself pursuing a career dealing with communications within a political office.

What other awards or honors have you

80 | ShelbyLiving.com

earned? What clubs and activities are you involved in at Auburn?

Member of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars; AU Dean’s List; AU Presidential Scholarship; AU Elite Dudley Scholarship; AU Board of Trustees Endowed Scholarship; 2015 Shelby County Distinguished Young Woman Academic Scholarship; 2015 Alabama Distinguished Young Woman Academic Scholarship; Producer of CD single, “Raise Your Voice;” Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award; Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Shelby County 2015; DYW of Alabama 2015 1st Runner-Up; 2013 MAOT Quality of Life Community Service Award; Alabama Music Association “Inspiration Award;” International Vocalist Awards. At Auburn, I am a majorette in the Auburn University Marching Band. Also, I am employed by Auburn University as a Supplemental Instructor, or SI leader for Precalculus. I am in the Honors College, an ambassador for the Honors College, and ambassador for the College of Liberal Arts, and a member of Lambda Sigma Honor Society (Top 50 Sophomores). Also, I am a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority.

How will you prepare for competing in the Miss Alabama Pageant?

This will be my fifth year in the Miss America system, three in “Outstanding Teen” and now 2 in “Miss.” You could say I have been preparing for a long time. I will prepare for the Miss Alabama Pageant by staying updated on current events, practicing my vocal talent, working out and a myriad of other things. The Miss AU team of directors will help prepare me by hosting mock interviews along with many other things.

What is something many people might not know about you?

I have performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville, TN. l

2016