Shelby Living September 2015

Wooded wonderland Alabama 4-H Center delivers adventures

Right to Try Shelby County boy is the inspiration behind a new law for terminally ill patients

Best of the Best

Learn when and where to vote in our annual contest September 2015 shelbyliving.com

$4.95

Carving artists Local couple creates chainsaw masterpieces

More than chicken Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux serves up food and fun in Mt Laurel

FROM THE EDITOR There is a reason Shelby County consistently placed at or near the top of quality of life rankings.

Simply put, it is the best place to live, go to school and do business. That is what Shelby Living’s Best of the Best contest is all about: Honoring those people and businesses that make Shelby County the wonderful place that it is today.

It is hard to believe it, but this is the fifth annual Best of the Best contest.

Over the years, thousands of our readers have voted in our online contest.

The most popular categories are typically food-related, usually Best Bakery or Best Barbecue.

Over the years, we have received requests for additional categories, and the contest has grown. The 2015 contest features more than 70 categories in eight subgroups: Dining and Nightlife, Arts and Culture, Health and Beauty, Services, Places, Home and Finance, Shopping and Auto.

I hope you will take the time to vote this year. This is a great opportunity to

show support for local businesses, organizations and people.

This month’s Shelby Living also features several other interesting articles: uMake sure to check out the story behind our cover couple, Heather and Justin Bailey. The local residents create gorgeous wood sculptures using chainsaws. Learn more about this local business on page 14. uLots of our readers are invested in Gabe Griffin’s story. We have featured the Shelby County boy several times before, focusing on his fight against Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This summer, the Alabama legislature passed legislation – inspired by Griffin – that will help people with terminally ill diseases have more options to medication. Check out more about Gabe’s fight on page 26.

As always, feel free to contact me with story ideas, questions or concerns.

Don’t forget to visit our website and vote in the Best of the Best contest!

Katie McDowell, Editor

Katie.McDowell@ShelbyLiving.com ON THE COVER Heather and Justin Bailey create wood sculptures using chainsaws. The couple live in Calera and work in Alabaster.

Cover design: Robyn Holm Photography: Emily Klein

SHELBY Living EDITORIAL Graham Brooks Molly Davidson Baker Ellis Jessa Pease Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner

CONTRIBUTORS Lindsay Dyess Dawn Harrison Ginny Cooper McCarley Lisa Phillips PRODUCTION Jamie Dawkins Layken Gibbs Robyn Holm Michele Hughes Amanda Porter MARKETING Kristy Brown Ashley Duckett Kari George Daniel Holmes Emily Klein Nicole Loggins Rhett McCreight Meagan Mims Kim McCulla April Spivey ADMINISTRATION Tim Prince Katie McDowell Mary Jo Eskridge Hailey Dolbare Laurel Cousins 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. 526.

4 | ShelbyLiving.com

food & dining 42

MORE THAN CHICKEN Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux opens in Mt Laurel

50

A FAVORITE FRUIT The fig tastes great on its own or in a salad

WHAT’S INSIDE

42 September 2015 | 5

WHAT’S INSIDE

11

26

14 in every issue 7

THE SIMPLE LIFE

8

SNIPPETS

53

VIEWPOINTS

61

SHELBY SPOTTED

77

MARKETPLACE

80

OUT AND ABOUT

arts & culture 11

A NIGHT OF MUSIC Raquel Lily brings her blend of indie folk/rock music to Shelby County

12

THE LEATHER ARTISAN Dragana Obradovic creates oneof-a-kind bags and jewelry from leather

14

CARVING ARTISTS Calera couple creates chainsaw masterpieces

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features

food & dining

24

FITNESS FOR ALL AGES Why One Nineteen fitness membership spans the spectrum

42

MORE THAN CHICKEN Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux opens in Mt Laurel

25

BEST OF THE BEST Vote for your favorite businesses in our annual contest

50

A FAVORITE FRUIT The fig tastes great on its own or in a salad

26

RIGHT TO TRY Shelby County boy inspires law that provides options for terminally ill patients

36

WOODED WONDERLAND Alabama 4-H Center delivers adventures and more

THE SIMPLE LIFE

Maintaining your space We all have limits for the amount of space in our homes, offices and brains. Every month we talk and act upon ways to ease clutter in our lives and simplify our daily routine.

While you may have made progress in cleaning out the garage, there’s a component to “stuff” that we can’t control, and those are the things that creep into our homes and Lisa Phillips, minds without an invitation. owner of SimpleWorks, “Things,” for lack of a better Simpleworks.guru all-encompassing term for “stuff,” lisa@simpleworks.guru 205.981.7733 continue to seep back into our lives because we’re evolving every day.

Kids continue to outgrow their clothes from last year, and the mailman fills our mailbox with flyers and catalogs we didn’t request. Just because the kitchen was organized last month doesn’t mean it’s still that way today. It’s the same with our desks. Life doesn’t stop—and neither can you when it comes to staying on top of the “things” that make their way back into our space. It’s not “organize and done” ... it’s “organize and maintain.”

Things that are outdated. Coupons, sale flyers, and magazines are easy to identify. Also include cosmetics, food, and discarded projects. Electronics become useless as soon as a newer version is released. Take time to maintain what’s current and what’s not.

Things that are broken. Give yourself credit for good intentions, but if it has a layer of dust that would take a power washer to remove, then it might be time to let it go. Are you really going to fix it? Do you have the time? Is it taking up valuable space?

Check to see if clothes still fit, are in season, and in style before spending the time and money to mend or dry clean.

Tweak your systems. Evaluate what’s working and what’s not at home and at the office. At home, the kids may be old enough to help with laundry by putting away their own clothes.

The chore list may need to be updated. At the office, files and projects may need a new home.

Organizing happens daily. You get “organized” and then you have to maintain the status quo. As long as we have mailmen delivering mail, stores that offer “lowest price this season,” and children who require new shoes because they grew three inches over the summer, then we’ll have to continue to stay on top of our space. It’s that simple. l

“Organizing happens daily. You get ‘organized’ and then you have to maintain the status quo.”

September 2015 | 7

SHORT STORIES

Shelby County farmer visits Washington, D.C. in May U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer, left, met with Shelby County farmer Doug Schofield during a breakfast meeting May 21 at the Capitol Hill Club in Washington, D.C. The event was part of the Alabama Farmers Federation Washington Legislative Conference held May 19-22 in the nation’s capital.

More than 100 Federation members attended the conference.

Alabama farmers spoke with federal officials and Congressmen about agricultural issues such Country of Origin Labeling (COOL), Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), the farm bill and feral swine management.

On May 21, attendees met with their U.S. representatives during breakfast and heard from U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby and Sen. Jeff Sessions during a luncheon at the Dirksen Senate building.

The conference also included briefings from staff of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Cotton Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

The event concluded with a visit to the Australian Embassy.

Hayley Barber named Miss Shelby County 2016 Hayley Barber was crowned the 2016 Miss Shelby County on Friday, July 17, at Shelby County High School.

Barber, 21, is a 2012 graduate of Pelham High School and is currently a student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Barber also won the Sonya Lefkovits and Susannah Higgins Moreland Community Service Award

Spain Park named among best high schools in country Spain Park High School recently received national recognition, ranking among the best public high schools in America.

U.S. News and World Report paired with social science research firm RTI International to produce the 2015 Best High Schools list, examining more than 21,000 schools across the country.

U.S. News and World Report awarded Spain Park a bronze-level medal, recognizing the school as one of the best

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during the Miss Shelby County pageant.

Kyra Callens, a student at Oak Mountain High, was also named Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen 2016 during the pageant.

The Miss Shelby County pageant is sponsored by the Alabama Vignette Club of Shelby County. Pictured are Callens and Barber following the pageant.

public high schools in the country. Spain Park High School also ranked among the best public high schools in Alabama.

Spain Park boasts a 12-to-one studentteacher ratio, with a student body of 1,558 and 131 full-time teachers.

Students of Spain Park’s most recent graduating class were offered nearly $17 million in college scholarships. Ninety percent of the class of 2015 enrolled in four-year institutions and nearly 90 percent were offered admission to their first choice school.

SHORT STORIES

Warriors 8U wins NSA State Championship The Alabaster Warriors 8U travel softball team won the NSA State Championship on July 11 in Millbrook.

The team finished in the top 5 in the USSSA State tournament on June 28. The Warriors are a local team that started last year in the travel ranks, but found it fairly rough their first year by going 8-22 on the season.

However, they followed that

up this year by finishing 42-15.

The girls are from Alabaster and Montevallo: Neely Davis, Nora Ellis, Bradli Davis, Hannah Hobbs, Savannah Young, Carlie Mills, Carter Lawley, Ellie Hamby, Savannah Kater, Jessie Padgett and Ella Mathews.

The team is coached by Rick Ellis, Todd Davis, Jay Hobbs, Brad Davis and Shawn Mills.

AREA honors Weaver Rep. April Weaver, who represents House District 49, which includes portions of Bibb, Chilton and Shelby counties, accepts the 2015 AREA Representative of the Year Award from Alabama Rural Electric Association President and CEO Fred Braswell, right, and AREA Vice President for Public Affairs Sean Strickler. Weaver was recognized at the AREA Summer Conference for helping co-sponsor legislation in 2014 designating the first Monday in June as Alabama Lineman

Appreciation Day and in 2015 for sponsoring a bill that clarified the use of automatic external defibrillators.

The Alabama Rural Electric Association of Cooperatives is a federation of not-for-profit electric cooperatives, which provide dependable electricity to more than 1 million Alabamians in 64 counties.

September 2015 | 9

SHORT STORIES

Tuskegee graduates establish local chapter Tuskegee University graduates residing in Shelby County established a Shelby County Tuskegee University Alumni Club on May 3.

The purpose of this organization is to foster the ideas of Tuskegee University and of its founder, Dr. Booker T. Washington, and to encourage liberal and generous moral and financial support of Tuskegee University and its policies.

The club will also encourage and assist the graduates and former students toward the highest development of character and service as reflecting the university.

In addition, it will assist in building up and maintaining a strong, effective and serviceable Tuskegee National Alumni Association of Tuskegee University by affiliating actively with the same.

The club is seeking all graduates and former students of Tuskegee University interested in joining. Contact Bill Mathis, club president, at williammathis1@yahoo. com or at 205-306-2665.

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ARTS COUNCIL CORNER

music A night of

Raquel Lily brings her blend of indie folk/rock music to Shelby County Story by LINDSAY DYESS Photograph CONTRIBUTED

B

irmingham is quickly becoming known as a music scene for up-and-coming artists. A new star on the rise is musician Raquel Lily.

Armed with a green guitar fondly named Gretschen, Lily brings her incredible voice and talent to the stage of the Shelby County Arts Council on Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Originally from the Philippines, Lily grew up in a musical family and began performing at a young age. Listening to everything from classic rock to heavy metal helped to shape her unique musical style.

It was not until college in Miami that she picked up her acoustic guitar and seriously started singing and writing.

“All of my songs are based on specific experiences and actual stories and metaphors about myself,” she said. “Melodically, it seems like I come up with things really spontaneously. I’ll randomly start humming a catchy line of notes, and sometimes words to go with it. If it gets stuck in my head, or if I remember it later on, I decide that it’s catchy enough to put into a song.

From that point on, the song writing stays pretty organic and for the most part, whimsical.”

Her passion for writing and telling stories is evident in her work. Music is just another way she connects with people and helps bring them together, despite differences.

“Being able to share my stories with others and have it impact them in some way, or even to just make them smile in the crowd is in itself rewarding,” she said.

Her music can be described as indie-folk/rock

with some jazz influences. Her clear, powerful voice perfectly complements her unique style and sound.

Since settling in Birmingham she has been popular on the local music circuit and has performed everywhere from Do Dah Day, Slice Fest, the Alabama Auto Show, Magic City Art Connection and a variety of venues around town.

“Performing music changed my life because of the unique opportunities I’ve been granted as a direct result,” she said. “I get to attend really cool events, meet new people, listen to some great music, and grow constantly as a musician and individual.” l

Raquel Lily will perform at the Shelby County Arts Council on Sept. 12.

EVENT DETAILS What: Raquel Lily performance Opening Act: Taylor Honeycutt and Matt Willis Location: Shelby County Arts Council Black Box Theater, 104 Mildred Street, Columbiana Date: Saturday, Sept. 12 Time: Doors open at 7 p.m.

Admission: $20 Website: Shelbycountyartscouncil.com

September 2015 | 11

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

The leather artisan Dragana Obradovic creates one-of-a-kind bags and jewelry from leather Story and Photographs by LAURA BROOKHART

O

ver the door to Dragana Obradovic’s studio is draped an enormous ivory calfskin leather hide, awaiting its future incarnation as a handmade Dragana Leather Design.

Born in Skopje, Macedonia and raised in Travnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dragana grew up watching her father, Vid Vujcic, a leather handbag designer and maker.

“At a very young age, I joined him in the family business,” she said. “My father was a careful instructor, immersing me in the intricacies of design and production, while allowing me to develop my own style.”

She notes her design aesthetic to be influenced by the elements of nature and animals as well as the structure of architecture. “I have been ever-mesmerized by color and pattern,” she smiles.

“My innate sense of design was further honed after graduating high school,” she added. “Then, I devoted myself to learning the entire process— from giving birth to an idea, transforming it into a modern 12 | ShelbyLiving.com

LEFT: A green handbag created by Dragana Obradovic. ABOVE: Obradovic began working with leather as a child.

design, and painstakingly hand-crafting it into a product for fashion lovers.”

Dragana became the chief designer for Galanterija Vujcic, working there until meeting and marrying her husband, Mak Obradovic. The couple met six years ago, introduced by mutual friends.

They lived in Orlando, Fla. before Mak accepted his current teaching position in physics and statistics at Indian Springs School in 2010.

“I love my life here in Pelham; the school is international and there is good camaraderie among the faculty and staff,” she said.

“I have invested myself in producing fine, enduring and practical leather products over the past 20 years,” Dragana said, adding, “Charlie and Cindy Thigpen were the first to encourage me to market my work here in Alabama, for which I have great appreciation.”

Her style, urban bohemian, is set apart by the unique finishing work that draws the eye to any Dragana Leather Design. Using such techniques such as hand stitching and punching, each work-of-art handbag is given its own name, frequently floral in nature.

Dragana Leather Designs are available at Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery at Pepper Place.

And, motorcycle aficionados take note—a new endeavor currently under way is Dragana’s creation of handmade, hand-stitched leather motorcycle seat covers for Confederate Motorcycles. l September 2015 | 13

ARTS & CULTURE

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Carving

artists

Calera couple creates chainsaw masterpieces Story by JESSA PEASE Photographs by EMILY KLEIN

G

rowing up, Heather Bailey knew she didn’t want to be a chainsaw sculptress. Her mother was a sculptress and Bailey knew it could be a tough life filled with weekend competitions and art shows.

Then in her 20s, Bailey picked up a chainsaw and has kept one in her hand ever since.

“I just loved it. I couldn’t put it down, so I was finally like ‘Oh that’s why my mom stuck with it,’” Bailey said. “I never understood why. I always loved to watch her, and I was always fascinated by it. As

far as making a living, it was hard.”

She sold her very first carving, two little trees, and just continued from there. People especially loved her “Rumpelstiltskin” like lighthouses that curved because she wasn’t strong enough to make the sculptures straight yet. It didn’t matter though, people loved the character.

“I was amazed that people were buying them because they are so fun to make, and people were buying them,” Bailey said. “It’s kind of addicting that way.”

It’s exactly how her husband, Justin,

LEFT: Many of the Baileys’ sculptures features wildlife.

September 2015 | 15

Heather and Justin Bailey live in Calera and have a workshop in Alabaster.

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got into wood carving as well. The Calera High School grad was in the Marine Corps out of Birmingham stationed in San Diego, and he met Heather before his second deployment to Japan.

“My first time in Japan, there’s a lot of wood carving over there, and I was really inspired by it,” Justin said. “I never really thought about making a living doing it, I just thought it was cool. (Then I) met her and I couldn’t have my girlfriend oneupping me. So I was like, ‘I’m a Marine. I should

try this.’”

Justin gave it a shot and found out he had a natural talent for it. His first piece, a little bear coming out of stump, is sitting in his mother’s house, and he was able to trade his second two bears for two chainsaws worth about $500.

“I was hooked,” Justin said. “It was fun, it was adventurous and it was something that I think most people just don’t think about making a living at. That caught my attention.”

Justin and Heather were married about eight months after they started dating, and Justin left for his second deployment to Japan after that. Heather was even able to stay in Japan for a month and conduct a carving demonstration there.

“I started carving with the intention of doing missionary training,” Heather said. “I kind of have a missionary’s heart and I love sharing Jesus with people.”

Heather contacted Justin’s church in Japan and asked if she could conduct the demonstration there. They agreed and she was able to have her honeymoon with Justin while also using September 2015 | 17

Heather uses a chainsaw to begin a wood sculpture.

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Heather said she often creates happier pieces, including smiling bears and dogs.

September 2015 | 19

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Heather carefully cuts a piece of wood at her workshop in Alabaster. A collection of sculptures created by the Baileys. A bear sculptures incorporates color and an actual lantern.

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the time for woodcarving.

“I felt like I could completely learn from someone who this is their lifestyle and they’re making a living doing it,” Heather said. “Or I could go learn from someone who isn’t maybe quite as dedicated. It was crazy, but through that experience I really had a lot of adventures and I can’t replace it.”

Heather travelled throughout Mexico participating in a mission trip, and she and

Justin have been all over the country, carving and learning. They had their now 3-year-old son Eli and visited every southern state and western state before settling down in Idaho and then Calera.

“We’ve been everywhere,” Justin said. “We’ve travelled. We’ve carved. We’ve had hard times and good times, and it’s just this very free kind of lifestyle.”

Most of the work the Baileys do are custom pieces where they consult with clients before

September 2015 | 21

ABOVE: Heather and Justin create a variety of sculptures, including wildlife and people. RIGHT: Justin uses a chainsaw to create a sculpture.

creating a carving. Heather said they both have different styles though. Heather creates happier pieces, doing a lot of smiling bears and dogs, while Justin said his pieces are more serious.

His favorite piece is a cowboy that he carved for one of his business instructors. They came across a bronze sculpture one day in class, and his instructor challenged Justin to create something like that with a chainsaw in wood. Justin lived up to the challenge.

Heather created a 20-foot wildlife totem pole, and said it is her favorite piece. She’s also created giant spines for chiropractors, but she said the totem pole is the best carving she’d ever created up to that point.

“It’s totally different styles, but the finished product is fairly much the same,” Justin said.

“They are just kind of our own. Heather’s are much more playful. Our personalities definitely come out in them.”

The couple recently moved to Calera from Idaho to be closer to Justin’s family and leased a 3,000-square-foot warehouse in Alabaster at 82 Highway 265, suite 606. For more information, visit Heather’s website at Chainsawsculptress.com and Justin’s website at Artbyjustinbailey.com. l 22 | ShelbyLiving.com

FEATURES

Fitness for all ages Why One Nineteen fitness membership spans the spectrum Story by RYAN PINDROH Photograph CONTRIBUTED

St. Vincent’s One Nineteen offers fitness classes for all ages.

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s summer comes to end and everyone returns to their fall routine, it’s the perfect time to stop putting off working out and commit to a fitness routine that best fits your age and health needs.

From aiding young professionals with their prework workout to completing fitness assessments for retirees aiming to raise their heart rates, at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, we offer a wide range of fitness offerings for all ages. It’s all part of our commitment to help everyone from children to senior adults build a healthy lifestyle.

For young professionals, One Nineteen’s before and after-work options draw those who want to maintain or regain their teen and college fitness levels. We try to keep those higher-intensity classes more geared to those members’ work schedules, and to make fitness staff available for those who prefer more self-directed workouts. And to serve those working around the lingering results of high school or college injuries, trainers can consult with onsite physical therapists for suggestions on specific needs.

For young families, One Nineteen’s certified and degreed trainers can prescribe exercises for a mom staying active through her pregnancy or for a young dad who wants to shed a few pounds and build core strength. One Nineteen provides child care (ages 4 months – 6 years) for members, so that parents can work their free weights or participate in a yoga or Pilates class, followed by a therapeutic massage in One Nineteen’s adjacent spa. As children’s sports interests grow, the family might investigate One Nineteen’s Sports Performance program, helping

young athletes to excel in any sport.

Empty nesters especially enjoy One Nineteen’s wide range of options, due to the expanding interests within this life stage. Some will use their child-free time to ramp up their exercise efforts, graduating to high-intensity classes. Others in this membership group are entering exercise programs for the first time in their adult lives.

Senior adults can take advantage of the SAIL (Staying Active Independently for Life) program, which offers stretching exercises, including chairbased activities that encourage flexibility and strength. One Nineteen’s water aerobics classes, held in its heated therapy pool, are particularly popular with seniors.

In addition, fitness members have the added benefit of conveniently accessing our full-range of “health care like no other” services. We offer everything from medical to wellness to spa services on our campus to bring you innovative care in a way that hasn’t been done before in this area.

Regardless of your age and stage in life, St. Vincent’s One Nineteen has everything you need to pursue a healthy lifestyle. If you’re interested in joining our fitness center, be sure to take advantage of our current special: Join for free and receive one month for free. This offer is available through September 30, 2015. To learn more, visit onenineteen.com. l Ryan Pindroh, ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist, is St. Vincent’s One Nineteen’s Health and Fitness Supervisor.

FEATURES

of the

best best Shelby County

brought to you by:

SHELBY Living

Five years of reader favorites

HOW TO VOTE

We all know it: Shelby County is a wonderful place to live. That’s what Best of the Best is all about.

Now, we want you to tell us your favorite businesses, services and places in Shelby County. This year’s contest includes old favorites like Best Bakery, Best Fitness Center and Best Auto Service, as well as newer categories, including Best Place to Worship and Best Photographer.

Voting for Shelby Living’s five annual Best of the Best contest has already begun! Visit our website today to tell us your favorites.

1

Voting begins Aug. 12 and ends Sept. 16. Visit Shelbyliving.com and click on the “Best of the Best” button to vote.

2

Only establishments located within Shelby County are eligible for entry.

3

Don’t vote more than once. We have a few safeguards in place to prevent this, but we’re depending on you to play fair.

Voting takes place from Aug. 12 through Sept. 16.

Winners will be announced in the November issue of Shelby Living.

September 2015 | 25

FEATURES

Scott and Gabe Griffin recently spend time in the state capitol successfully lobbying legislators to support a bill that allows terminally ill patients access to experimental medications that have not been approved by the FDA.

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Right to Try Shelby County boy inspires law that provides options for terminally ill patients Story by GINNY COOPER MCCARLEY Photographs by JON GOERING and CONTRIBUTED

W

ith a shock of bright red hair and an insuppressible grin, Gabe Griffin has taken the state capitol by

storm.

“I walked in (the state capitol building) one afternoon without Gabe, and the senators were mad,” Scott Griffin, Gabe’s father, laughed. “They were all asking, ‘Where’s Gabe? I had candy for him in my desk!’”

Gabe and Scott Griffin are staples in Montgomery, where they work to bring awareness to a rare disease that affects Gabe.

Ten-year-old Gabe Griffin has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a disease that causes muscle weakening over time, leaving children diagnosed with the disease likely in a wheelchair by age 12. The disease primarily affects young boys, and most who have Duchenne die in their late teens or early 20s.

Despite the sobering statistics, Scott Griffin is not deterred.

“I do believe that with medicines out there and with what is going on with research that Gabe and other boys in this generation will be the first generation to survive this disease,” Griffin said.

Though there are a number of drugs with promising results in late-stage trials, currently there are no U.S. Food and Drug

Administration-approved treatments for the disease.

However, thanks to Senate Bill 357— known as Gabe’s Right to Try—Gabe Griffin will have a bit more hope.

Gabe’s Right to Try law allows terminally ill patients access to experimental medications not approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration.

The bill does not require insurance companies to cover the cost of experimental medications.

The bill was signed into law by Governor Robert Bentley, after passing unanimously through both state House of Representatives and the state Senate where it was sponsored by State Representative April Weaver and State Senator Cam Ward.

“Years from now, when I look back at my legislative career, I know that working with Gabe and his family to pass the Right to Try Act will certainly be among my greatest memories and accomplishments,” Weaver said, noting Gabe Griffin is “an amazing young man.”

The bill will both allow Gabe and others like him to have a better quality of life and provide hope for their parents, according to Ward.

“The response to the legislation has been overwhelmingly positive,” Ward said. “Many families across the state have contacted the supporters of this legislation September 2015 | 27

BELOW: Gabe and Scott Griffin. RIGHT: Gabe is 10 years old and has Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

What is Duchenne? uDuchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. uDMD is caused by the absence of dystrophin, a protein that helps keep muscle cell intact. uDMD is one of nine types of muscular dystrophy, and it primarily affects boys. uDiagnosis typically occurs in early childhood, typically between the ages of 3-5 years. uA child with DMD will likely be in a wheelchair by age 12. uDMD is fatal, usually by the late teens or 20s.

However, advances in cardiac and respiratory care have lengthened life expectancy with some sufferers surviving into their early 30s and beyond.

Information from the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s website, mda.org.

28 | ShelbyLiving.com

and expressed the same sentiments that this legislation will truly change the lives of loved ones. I think this new law is something everyone in Alabama can be proud of.”

For the Griffins, the law marks the end of one small fight in their battle for their son’s life.

“It was a good journey,” Scott Griffin said. “There are not too many 10-year-old boys who have a law named after them.”

Working behind the scenes to make the bill a reality was Michael Staley, former chief of staff to Spencer Bachus, who met the Griffins when they were in Washington to push for the FDA’s approval of a drug to treat Duchenne.

The chance encounter led to a long-lasting relationship between Staley and the Griffins.

“I have never met anyone in my life like Michael,” Scott Griffin said. “He fights as hard and, crazy as it sounds, harder than I do for Gabe. We wouldn’t be here even talking about (Gabe’s Right to Try law) without Michael.”

Staley, who works with the Griffins on raising awareness for the disease, biked for than 3,000 miles from Astoria, Oregon to Mobile during Ride4Gabe last summer along with Wes Bates.

During the course of the ride, the group decided to pursue ‘right to try’ legislation in Alabama.

— Scott Griffin Currently, more than 20 states have introduced similar legislation.

For Staley, the passage of Gabe’s Right to Try law sends a message about the importance of patient experience in the drug approval process.

“Our motivation for Gabe’s Right to Try is not to sidestep the important role played by the FDA. We wanted to add Alabama to the growing list of states calling for a modernization of federal laws related to drug discovery, approval, and delivery in the United States,” Staley said. “Our message is that the FDA should give patient views more weight in drug approval decisions.”

Despite the positive step, Scott Griffin is quick to point out that the law does not ensure treatment for his son.

“At the end of the day, I’m not sure what the law will do for Gabe, because it doesn’t mean he’ll get medication tomorrow, but it gets us one step closer. It means we can at least have conversations with insurance companies and drug companies.”

Though the question of medication for Gabe is complex, there are a number of promising new treatments including Follistatin Gene Therapy and Eteplirsen.

“We’re not going to stop. I can’t as a dad. As a parent we’re supposed to step in front of a moving train for our kids.”

September 2015 | 29

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Scott and Gabe participated in Ride4Gabe, a cross-country fundraiser, last summer. The Griffin family poses with Gov. Robert Bentley after he signed Gabe’s Right to Try into law. Scott and Gabe wear T-shirts promoting Hope4Gabe, an organization that helps raise funds and awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Gabe and Scott at the playground in Mt Laurel. Gabe has three siblings.

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September 2015 | 31

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SHELBY Living

ABOVE: Gabe and Scott Griffin. RIGHT: The Griffin family joined Gov. Robert Bentley, family friend Michael Staley, state Sen. Cam Ward and state Rep. April Weaver to celebrate the passage of Gabe’s Right to Try.

“Those two drugs I believe can help save Gabe,” Scott Griffin said.

Though Gabe walks, runs and laughs like a typical 10-year-old now, his body is already showing signs of the ravaging disease.

“He’s such a normal little boy, but as time goes on he’s having trouble walking up stairs,” Scott Griffin said, adding that Gabe’s brothers often help carry him up the stairs. “We’re going to have to sell our house that we’ve been in for 10 years and find something more conducive for Gabe.”

Despite the passage of the Right to Try law, the Griffins are not pausing their plan to raise awareness for Duchenne and find a cure for Gabe. This fall, the family planned to head to Washington D.C. to show their support for the 21st Century Cures Act and continue raising awareness about the disease.

“We’re not going to stop. I can’t as a dad. As a parent we’re supposed to step in from of a moving train for our kids. I can’t make this better. It’s 100 percent fatal. What I can do is fight until the bitter end,” Scott Griffin said.

Fighting—both against Duchenne and for the rights of terminally ill patients—is at the heart of Gabe’s journey with Duchenne.

“Maybe Gabe’s whole story is a fight,” Scott Griffin said. “What if we all fought 100 percent for what we believed in?”l

September 2015 | 33

FEATURES

Wooded wonderland Alabama 4-H Center delivers adventures Story by GINNY COOPER MCCARLEY 36 | ShelbyLiving.com

The Environmental Science Education Center offers multiple meeting rooms, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and views of the forest from every room. (Photo by Rion Rizzo/Creative Sources Photography)

September 2015 | 37

LEFT: The open-air chapel seats up to 200 people.

RIGHT: The 4-H Center borders Lay Lake and offers many outdoor activities.

(Photos by Emily Klein)

38 | ShelbyLiving.com

R

arely can one location play host to such a variety of events—science camps, church groups, weddings, corporate meetings—but the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana manages it all, while staying true to its mission.

“We are primarily a youth development center to impact leadership skills and youth across Alabama, but we are also a destination for a variety of other entities,” Bobby Breedlove, manager of the center, said.

The Alabama 4-H Center is a stunning 264 acres of towering trees, chirping birds, and cool breezes overlooking Lay Lake in Columbiana. The center sits on land that is leased long-term from Alabama Power as well as additional property owned by the 4-H Foundation.

In 1980, when the first buildings were erected on the property, the layout was simple—there was dorm housing, a lodge and dining room for meals.

Now, the center offers more than just the rustic accommodations you’d expect to find: There are 51 hotel-style guest rooms and 30 private dorm rooms as well as five quaint cottages. A number of meeting facilities dot the landscape as well, from boardrooms for official business to a theater with a view of leafy, green trees. For larger groups, the Environmental Science Education Center offers six meeting rooms of various sizes, which all look out over the forest.

Though the Alabama 4-H Center offers an assorted itinerary throughout the year, the keystone event for the center is the 4-H summer camp.

“For some kids, it’s the first chance they get to spend the night away from home and bond,” Breedlove said, adding that the camp seeks to “develop good young men and young women.”

Campers stay on-site for three nights, experiencing activities such as archery, canoeing and swimming. At night, kids eat ice cream at the opening-night luau and roast marshmallows to perfection over a campfire.

For the most adventurous campers, the center offers night hikes and a climbing wall as well as a giant swing, where participants don a full body harness, are hoisted to the top of a 30-foot pole and pull the quick release to go flying. The mantra for these activities is “challenge by choice,” Breedlove said, stressing that attendees are never pressured to try anything they are not comfortable doing.

“You like to see someone sneak a little bit outside their comfort zone,” he said. “That’s where the growth occurs. Confidence can be such a visible thing, and you can see that in their posture and reaction afterwards.”

The adventure courses are open to all groups who use the facilities, including corporate organizations and campers of all kinds. For many groups who opt to try the activities, change seeps into other aspects of their life as well. “(That confidence) bleeds over into your personal life and professional life as well,” Breedlove said.

For visitors with a bent for science, the facility houses the Alabama 4-H Science School— another mainstay of the Alabama 4-H Center—a

residential environmental education program, currently celebrating two decades of work at the center.

The science school sits on the banks of Lay Lake, and provides hands-on learning experiences for groups as well as outreach programs across the state.

For Brian Taylor, on-site program coordinator for the Alabama 4-H Science School, the science school is special in its ability to reach a broad variety of ages and skill levels. “(People) of all ranges of ability and learning styles can learn things in an exciting way,” Taylor said, adding that the center has the capacity to work with both kids and adults.

The science school is home to almost 100 animals, ranging from reptiles to raptors. Many of the animals reside in the Environmental Science Education Center, a gold level LEEDCertified “green” building, which has a number of Alabama habitats on display. Owls peep out of the piedmont habitat, and in the swamp habitat, two small American alligators rest on a wet bed of leaves.

“The habitats are done really, really well,” Taylor said. “Our animal collection is what really sets us apart. There is always something different going on; always something fun.”

Quite a few of the animals are rescue animals, and some of the birds come from Oak Mountain’s Alabama Wildlife Center.

“Every individual animal has its own story, and they all have a message,” Taylor said, noting instructors often use the animals as an example to students of how to properly care for animals, as well as the importance of conservation.

For Taylor, who worked as an instructor with the science school for two years, the best part of leading the program is helping students appreciate nature.

“Seeing their eyes light up, seeing them make sense of something they’ve never understood before…it’s wonderful, it really is,” Taylor said.

Welcome to the good life. Welcome to Shelby Living!

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With all of the camps, conferences and activities, there are a lot of hungry bellies to feed at the Alabama 4-H Center, a job James Jernigan enjoys immensely.

Jernigan has served as food service manager for the center for more than ten years, which have been “the best 10 years of my life,” he said.

The 12-person on-site kitchen can churn out “pretty much anything you can imagine,” Jernigan said, who often cooks up classic meals such as roast beef with fresh new potatoes and French-blend vegetables or fried chicken breast with mashed potatoes and green beans.

For the campers, Jernigan makes kid-approved meals such as spaghetti, chicken fingers and hotdogs.

The Alabama 4-H Center also hosts a number of weddings in the open-air chapel nestled in the woods, which features valeted ceilings and classic wooden benches.

For wedding guests, Adrieanne Conwell develops high-end catering options.

“She just rocks the house on catering. It’s amazing,” Jernigan said.

No matter what your business at the Alabama 4-H Center, guests can expect good service.

“We put our blood, sweat and tears into everything we do,” Jernigan said. “We take care of things so you don’t have to worry about anything.” l

40 | ShelbyLiving.com

Members of the 4-H Center recently bought reptiles to a program at the Mt Laurel Library. (Photo by Dawn Harrison)

FOOD & DINING

More than

chicken Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux opens in Mt. Laurel Story by GINNY COOPER MCCARLEY Photographs by DAWN HARRISON

M

r. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux is about more than just the food, though the food, too, is delicious.

“It’s really about people getting together with friends and family, and serving good food,” said Chris Harrigan, who partnered with Nick Pihakis, co-founder of Jim ‘N Nick’s, to create the new restaurant.

The response to the restaurant, which opened in Mt. Laurel on March 17, has been “overwhelmingly good,” Harrigan said.

The location previously housed the upscale restaurant Stones Throw Bar & Grill, where Harrigan worked as the executive chef for five years. The decision to change the concept of the space was primarily based on what made sense for the area.

We felt like after five years it was time to try something a little bit different,” Harrigan said.

Since opening, the restaurant has morphed into a “hybrid”-type restaurant.

It offers “fast-casual” dining where customers can order their food and seat themselves, as well as a full-service area with a wait staff.

The menu offers dishes ranging from less than $10 for salads and sandwiches to family dinners in the mid-$30s.

The menu is a mix of classic, family-style dishes.

“It’s a throwback to a family supper type dish,” Harrigan said.

Many of the recipes the duo developed for the restaurant are inspired by famous dishes from around the South. The farm-raised, thin-sliced catfish is based on a dish made famous by Middendorf’s Seafood in Akers, La. The Four Corners Chicken-on-a-Stick is inspired by a gas station specialty in Oxford, Miss.

LEFT: Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux opened in March in Mt Laurel.

42 | ShelbyLiving.com

September 2015 | 43

44 | ShelbyLiving.com

where jumbo chicken tenders are cut in chunks and skewered. Mr Harry’s interpretation includes homemade pickles and is served with honey mustard or ranch. The hot chicken is styled after the long-standing Nashville tradition, but be careful what you ask for: The extra-hot is “just over the top ridiculous,” Harrigan laughed.

“The main thing is just to keep it fun and do really good food,” Harrigan said.

For Harrigan, seeking inspiration from a variety of restaurants is natural as he spend much of his early career as a chef traveling and cooking in cities such as San Francisco, Miami, New York City, and Chicago. Harrigan and his wife eventually moved back to Birmingham, where Harriagan worked for big-name Birmingham chefs such as Chris Hastings and Frank Stitt.

“I enjoy cooking,” Harrigan said. “On a certain level it can be an art form, and on most levels it is a craft. Food is a kind of gateway to the landscape of a certain culture.”

The restaurant’s menu features classic Southern dishes, such as the Dough-Dough Bird—two homemade buttermilk biscuits with a fried chicken breast and house-made pepper jelly. New menu items include the fried pickle appetizer and a traditional

LEFT: The restaurant offers slow-roasted rotisserie chicken. ABOVE: Mr. Harry’s owner Chris Harrigan and Leslie Parks, one of the managers.

September 2015 | 45

ABOVE: A meal offers your choice of chicken – fried, hot or rotisserie – and a choice of two sides. RIGHT: A chalkboard lists the daily specials.

46 | ShelbyLiving.com

chicken sandwich – boneless, fried and topped with pickles and mayonnaise. The health-conscious have the option of trading the fried chicken for grilled or rotisserie.

The chicken-on-a-stick is the restaurant’s best seller, while those opting for something a little lighter often order the Mr. Harry’s Salad—a mixed green salad with wood fired rotisserie or fried chicken tossed in a house-made vinaigrette with avocado, corn, tomatoes, scallions, almonds, cheddar cheese, and croutons.

If you’re feeling decadent, the Big De-Lux Burger boasts two all-beef patties between three pieces of

a sesame seed bun with all the fixings and a special sauce.

“Our burger is probably my favorite hamburger I’ve ever done,” Harrigan said. “It’s kind of a riff on the old Big Mac. It’s just delicious.”

For those who want to get away from chicken, the restaurant offers other options such as the Pot Roast Sliders—two slow roasted beef brisket sliders with homemade gravy—or the Garden Platter, a choice of four sides for an all-vegetable dinner.

The menu will continue to change with the seasons.

“We’ll be bringing in more fresh items, some

September 2015 | 47

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Sides include braised greens, spicy slaw, succotash, fries, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese and more. The restaurant is not limited only to chicken; burgers, seafood and hot dogs are also on the menu. Parks and Harrigan sample some of Mr. Harry’s offerings. Salad options include wedge, Greek and Mr. Harry’s Salad, which includes avocado, tomato, corn, scallions and cheddar cheese.

48 | ShelbyLiving.com

summertime seasonality,” Harrigan said.

A new seasonal menu item includes the Peach Hand Pie, which is baked instead of fried. Harrigan said it looks like a small empanada and is “just absolutely delicious.”

“Throughout the season, we’ll change the filling to match whatever is seasonal,” he said.

Harrigan and Pihakis chose to open Mr. Harry’s Chickin De-Lux in Mt. Laurel in part because the transition between restaurants was easy, but also because the location was ideal.

“It’s a beautiful setting, a really good neighborhood feel,” said Harrigan. “There are a lot of families, a lot of kids. That’s our customer base.”

However, the restaurant will soon expand to include two more locations in Avondale and Nashville, Tenn. Despite the expansion, the restaurant’s motto will remain the same.

“It really is about people getting together with friends and family and having good food,” Harrigan said. “It’s just an opportunity to eat good food and be with friends and family.” l

September 2015 | 49

FOOD & DINING

A favorite fruit

50 | ShelbyLiving.com

The fig tastes great on its own or in a salad Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Recipe by STONE HOLLOW FARMSTEAD Photographs by DAWN HARRISON

W

hat is better than a perfectly ripe fig?

Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a salad – like in this recipe by Stone Hollow Farmstead – this sweet fruit is sure to satisfy.

The fig has been valued by different cultures for centuries, including the Greeks and Romans. The fig tree was one of the earliest fruit trees cultivated.

Today, hundreds of varieties of figs exist, and they go by different names in different parts of the

world. Although it is often called the “poor man’s fruit” in the Mediterranean –due to its abundance – this delicious fruit, which is an excellent source of fiber, is sure to enrich your diet.

Stone Hollow Farmstead is an artisan farm located at 2006 Dead Hollow Road in Harpersville.

For more information, visit Stonehollowfarmstead. com or call 800-285-8950. l Information from this story provided by the Encyclopedia Britannica.

September 2015 | 51

ROASTED FIG WITH GOAT CHEESE SALAD 12 figs Goat cheese Toasted walnuts, lightly salted Arugula Local honey, warmed Balsamic vinegar Cut the figs into quarters by cutting a cross three-quarters of the way down. Stuff the figs with a dollop of goat cheese. Roast in a lightly oiled pan at 425 degrees for 12 minutes, until softened. Serve on top of a bed of arugula. Sprinkle with desired amount of walnuts, and drizzle with warm honey and balsamic vinegar.

52 | ShelbyLiving.com

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

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

Business Connections Help the Chamber Build Something GREATER! volunteers to approach current chamber members in seeking sponsorships for the Chamber’s 2016 program year, new members and budgetreducing in-kind goods & services.

The Chamber will provide all TRC volunteers with expert training

during one of the three 2-hour sessions provided on September 10 and 11.

(Note: Volunteers need only attend one of these sessions.) During their efforts, TRC volunteers will network with area business leaders and improve their sales techniques such as prospecting, preparing a sales pitch and closing the sale - through our sales training sessions, manual and orientation. Finally, TRC volunteers will have numerous chances to win special prizes — including cash and a chance at a Victory Trip to the beach for the top producers.

For more information

Bill Keller Renasant Bank on the Chamber’s 2015 TRC, please contact Aubri McClendon at the Chamber by phone at 663-4542, ext.

104 or via e-mail: aubri@ shelbychamber.org.

It’s Time to “Tee It Up” at the Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament The Chamber’s Annual Golf “FORE!” Education Tournament, sponsored

by HealthSouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital, will be held, September 17 at Chamber member Inverness Country Club.

Registration begins at 8:15 AM (with a light breakfast @ 8:30AM) and the Scramble tees off with a Shotgun Start at 9:00AM. Lots of prize opportunities will be available for participants

Sponsor:

including longest drive, closest to the pin and a putting contest.

The entry fee, which includes a light breakfast, lunch, greens fees, cart and two drink tickets per person, is $600 for a fourperson team or $150 for each

individual player.

Several sponsorship opportunities for the day of the tournament are also still available, so please contact the Chamber if you’d like to market your organization’s products and services during this event. Call 663-4542 or

visit www.shelbychamber. org. Sponsorships are firstcome, first-served basis.

September 2015 | 53 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

On September 16, under the leadership of Renasant Bank’s Bill Keller, the Chamber will kick-off its inaugural Total Resource Campaign (TRC) — “Building Something GREATER.” This 8-week effort pulls chamber members together in an effort to share the benefits of membership and sponsorship opportunities to the entire business community.

This TRC effort replaces the Chamber’s former “Continual Sponsorship” effort by encouraging

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Cholesterol Levels The Good & The Bad

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by our body and obtained from the foods we eat. We actually have two different kinds of cholesterol: high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL).

HDL is the “good” cholesterol that can help remove excess bad cholesterol (LDL) from your blood stream.

LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol that can lead to

Newsletter

2015 Health Focus Sponsor

blocked arteries and cause heart problems.

Keeping your cholesterol in check is an important key to obtaining good cardiovascular health. You want to make sure that your total cholesterol levels are below 200, LDL cholesterol below 100 and

HDL cholesterol over 40.

Exercising daily and consuming a diet rich in nutrients and low in fat are good ways to help keep your cholesterol in check. Try to limit red meats, fried foods, egg yolks, high fat dairy products and organ meats;

they will raise your LDL levels. Choose more poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, nuts, seeds and omega-3 rich cooking oils like olive and canola.

If you have any questions about cholesterol levels or need a doctor call DialA-Nurse (205) 939-7878 or 1-800-331-6777. Or, to schedule an appointment with a St. Vincent’s One Nineteen dietitian, call (205)-408-6600.

Article Submitted by: Leigh Ann Pritchett, MS, RD, LD St.Vincent’s Wellness Services

Go & Grow Workshop: “Being the Boss” The September Go & Grow Workshop — sponsored

by Spectrum Business and facilitated by Michael Smith of The Great, The Good and The Gone — will provide strategies and action steps for top managers, owners — or anyone that wants to attain those roles with their companies — to achieve GREATNESS. Topics covered during this hands-on and interactive workshop include:

Sponsor:

uHow Do You Go from Being One of the Team To Being the Boss, uWhat Separates GREAT Bosses from the Pack, uHow Do You Become that GREAT Boss You Always Wanted To Work For?, uAnd More!

The workshop will be on September 8 from 11:30AM2:00PM at the Chamber.

There is no cost to attend, but lunch is available for $10 per person for Chamber members ($20 for “Future” members).

To ensure we have a proper headcount, please

make reservations for this workshop Friday, September 4 by contacting Brooke White, the Chamber’s Director of Business Development & Support via e-mail at brooke@shelbychamber.org or by calling 663-4542, ext.

105 or register online at www. shelbychamber.org.

Join the Chamber for “CoffeeNet” at Flowerz N’ More Be sure to mark your calendar for Monday, October 5 and join us at Flowerz N’ More, 76 Fulton Springs Road, Ste B, Alabaster from 8:30AM until 9:30AM for CoffeeNet! The morning meeting is designed for members to enjoy networking, coffee, 54 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

2015 CoffeeNet Sponsor:

and light refreshments — all before heading to the office.

CoffeeNet events,

sponsored by Business Telephones, Inc., are a great way to make new business

contacts so bring plenty of business cards. There is no cost to attend however reservations are requested

by Friday, October 2 to assist in preparation.

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

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

SpeedNetworking Times NINE Chambers!

The Greater Shelby, Calera, Homewood, Hoover, Irondale, Montevallo, Mountain Brook, Trussville and Vestavia Hills chambers of commerce are joining together to host a NINEChamber SpeedNetworking event for members to expand the opportunity to connect!

Participants are encouraged to bring a minimum 500+ business cards and be ready for a morning of fun, fast and free networking!

Comedienne Joy will get the event rolling by sharing some clean comic relief so bring your smile too!

Sponsor

Thank you to the sponsor and host of this huge networking opportunity, Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel, 1000 Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham.

SpeedNetworking Times NINE Chambers will be held

on Wednesday, October 14, from 8:30AM until 10:30AM at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel (Galleria). There is no cost to attend however EARLY reservations are recommended as this event has a tendency to sell out.

Reservations will be taken until Monday, October 12 or until at full capacity. Contact the Greater Shelby Chamber at 663-4542 or register online at www.shelbychamber.org.

2015-2016 “Keeping It Real” Starts This Month then have to pay bills based on the random scenario. It has been an eye opening experience for the previous 9th graders to say the least.

The Chamber will be looking for volunteers for a 1/2 - full day as we make our way around to all of the schools in Shelby County.

Volunteers will manage a station and assist 9th grade students as they “pay bills”

and make “life choices” based on random-assigned life situations. If you, or your colleagues, are interested in being a volunteer, please call Keyla Handley at 6634542 ext. 106, or email at keyla@shelbychamber.org.

Lunch is provided for all volunteers.

One-on-One Mentorship Offers Guidance & Support The Chamber’s Entrepreneur & Small Business Mentorship program sponsored by Spectrum Business continues to provide much needed assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

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

Sponsor:

The next Mentorship sessions will be held Tuesday, September 8 from 8:00AM-11:00AM. During that time, Michael Smith with the The Great, The Good and The Gone will be available for a one-on-one confidential meeting with any small business owner or entrepreneur to discuss any topic. Appointments are required and usually last 30-45 minutes. Please contact Brooke White, the Chamber’s

Director of Business

Development & Support, at 663-4542 ext. 105 or via e-mail at brooke@shelbychamber. org for availability on September 8.

September 2015 | 55 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

The Chamber will launch its 3rd year of Keeping It Real in early September. This program teaches 9th grade students about “real world” life choices by giving them a random “life scenario” which includes marital/ family status, education, job and salary. The students

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New Members (as of July 27, 2015)

Champion Technologies, LLC

Kellie McKinney

121 Clark Street, Pelham

Construction

Community Response Systems, LLC John Kessler 323 1st Street North, Alabaster communityresponsesystems.com Incident Response Software Down South Realty / Mary Dunnaway Mary Dunnaway

30474 Highway 25, Wilsonville

Real Estate - Residential

Gregory Law Firm, P.C.

Steven Gregory

270 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste 700-305, Birmingham

Joe Lockett Show

Joe Lockett

201 Beacon Parkway NW, Birmingham

gregorylawfirm.us

jlockettshow.com

Law Office of Charles C. Dawson, Jr., LLC Charles Dawson 2163 Pelham Parkway, Ste 212, Pelham charlesdawsonlaw.com Plexus Worldwide Inde. Amb. #358568 Twila Ray

Attorneys

Radio Station/ Media Attorneys

2521 Comanche Drive, Birmingham twilaray.myplexusproducts.com Health & Wellness

PrimePay LLC

Jarrod Bates

3535 Grandview Parkway, Ste 343, Birmingham primepay.com Employee Benefit Services

Psychiatry South, Inc.

Kristin Nemeth

3000 Southale Park, Ste 100, Birmingham

SAS Tax & Accounting, LLC

Susan Smith

3115 Pelham Parkway, Pelham

sastaxandaccounting.com walmart.com

Accounting Retail/ Shopping

Newsletter

Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market #4756 Jonathan Webb 2517 Chandabrook Circle, Pelham

psychiatrysouth.com Medical Specialized

Montevallo & Greater Shelby County Chambers Form Partnership The Montevallo Chamber of Commerce and Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, both 501 (c) 6 organizations, announced a collaborative partnership today. The two organizations will work more closely together on a wide array of programs for their respective memberships and internally with staffing support provided by the Greater Shelby County Chamber.

“On behalf of my colleagues on the Greater Shelby County Board of Directors, we’re 56 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

pleased to partner with the Montevallo Chamber’s volunteer leadership, members and their staff by offering assistance and access to our expanded program of work, as well as providing additional opportunities for both organizations,” Greater Shelby County Chamber 2015 Chair Lisa McMahon of Warren Averett, LLC commented. “What’s more, this collaboration — as well as the work we’re doing with the Calera Chamber — allows us to follow through

on many of the goals laid out in ShelbyOne, our fiveyear Strategic Plan, which is designed to ensure quality employment, retain existing businesses, and ultimately continue moving all of Shelby County forward,” McMahon continued.

“On behalf of the Montevallo Chamber’s Board of Directors, we believe this expanded partnership with the Greater Shelby County Chamber will be extremely beneficial to our Montevallo Chamber members. The

increased opportunities our members will receive — access to business information, workshops, increased visibility county-wide and — coupled with additional staff support for our programs and events will prove valuable and worthwhile for all businesses in Montevallo,” Steve Gilbert, Executive Director of the Montevallo Chamber stated.

“This effort truly is a working partnership for everyone, and we’re excited about the future opportunities,” Gilbert concluded.

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce 2015 Ribbon Cutting Sponsor

Celebrating Growth Thank you Pelham Flowers by Desiree’ for providing the ribbon and bows for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies.

Congratualations to VITAS Healthcare on the Grand Opening of its inpatient unit located on the third floor of Shelby Baptist Medical Center, Alabaster. They celebrated with an Open House. Shown from L-R: April Weaver, Shelby Baptist Medical Center, Erica EdwardsLankford, VITAS Healthcare, and Matt Fridy, Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC.

Congratulations to Living Nurtured, LLC in Columbiana on its Grand Opening and Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Owner Ritcha Garrett is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Raindrop Specialist and Young Living Platinum Leader. Call 610-9730 or visit www. livingnurtured.com.

More than 40+ Chamber members and guests enjoyed an evening of Southern & Caribbean Cuisine at the Business After Hours hosted by Jake’s Southern & Caribbean Cafe. The Business After Hours event, sponsored by Shelby County Reporter, was a blast of networking, delicious food, beverages and music.

Newsletter

Snapshots

More than 15+ Chamber members joined together for a CoffeeNet kind of morning at Favorite Laundry - A Children’s Clothing Store in Mt. Laurel. CoffeeNet, sponsored by Business Telephones, Inc., is designed for morning networking and light refreshments before heading to the office.

Contact Us

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce

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

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

September 2015 | 57 Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Newsletter

Ambassador of the Month Congratulations to Gene Rowley, VP/General Manager of APH Radio for earning the designation of Ambassador of the Month. APH Radio is Shelby County’s only local radio station. APH Radio gives its net profits back to fund local ministries, charities and civic groups. Listen on 99.9FM or download the free mobile app for both iPhone and Android.

Gene was a 17 year veteran of the U.S. Army and Alabama National Guard, 20th Special Forces Group, retired in 2012. He served two tours in Afghanistan and one tour in Iraq — Airborne, Jumpmaster, Master Parachutist. Gene started in radio while in high school. He shared with us that he fell into a ditch he was hired to dig at the local, Dover Delaware, radio station. Gene sprained his ankle and was offered a job on the spot after the Program Director heard his wailing. Since that time Gene has worked at several stations in Birmingham and Houston.

He also worked at KKLA in Los

(as of 5/26/15)

Officers Lisa McMahon Warren Averett, LLC (Chair)

Angeles, CA, the #1 Christian Talk Radio Station in America.

Gene is a nationally recognized voiceover artist, at Gene Rowley Voiceover. “If you’ve ever been to the movies or watched tv, you’ve heard Gene’s voice.” - Ilko Drozdoski (TGMD Talent, Los Angeles).

2015 Ambassador Program Sponsor:

58 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

Sponsor:

Linda Cencula (2016) Avadian Credit Union Steve Chapman (2016) Alabama Gas Corporation

Bill Keller Renasant Bank (Immediate Past Chair)

Kathy Copeland (2016) White Rock QuarriesVincent Hills

John Browning Cahaba Valley Computer Services (Vice Chair, Business Development & Support)

Bruce Fryer (2016) Lhoist North America

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

Joe Meads Sain Associates (Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs) Charlie Stevens Thompson Tractor Company, Inc. (Vice Chair, Membership & Marketing) Board of Directors William Carroll (2015) Armstrong Relocation & Companies

members.

Reservations are requested by September 14, so please register via email at info@shelbychamber. org, by phone at 663-4542 or register online at www. shelbychamber.org.

Tim Benefield (2016) Buffalo Rock Company

Paul Rogers NobleBank & Trust (Chair-elect)

Gregg Maercker First Commercial Bank — Retired (Vice Chair, Finance & Administration)

Shelby County’s Best Networking On September 15 Shelby County’s premier business networking event heads to Champy’s in Alabaster from 5:30PM-7:00PM. Attendees are encouraged to bring plenty of business cards and come ready to make some serious business contacts. Plus, everyone present will earn a chance to win some prizes at Champy’s (10695 Highway 119 in Alabaster).

The cost — which includes hors d’oeuvres and two beverage coupons — for any Chamber member is $10 per person and $20 for “Future”

GSCCC Board of Directors

David Platt (2015) Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama Jim Purvis (2015) A. C. Legg, Inc. Ashley Robinett (2015) Alabama Power Company

Dominic Buompastore (2017) Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel Bill Connor (2017) America’s First Federal Credit Union Chris Grace (2017) Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Katie McDowell (2017) Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. Michael Smith (2017) The GREAT, The GOOD and The GONE Sam Tucker (2017) Spectrum Business Andrew McGee (*) Hampton Inn & Suites 280 at Eagle Point Jeff Brown (*) Brownstone Marketing Solutions Amanda Mundy (*) Trinity Medical Center David Schlueter (*) Buck Creek Stained Glass Brent Stewart (*) Renasant Bank *Serving a one-year term in 2015.

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Save The Date — Annual Safety Awards Luncheon Join us on September 30 for the Annual Safety Awards luncheon, sponsored

by First Commercial Bank, as we honor public safety officials from throughout Shelby County. Each year we are privileged to recognize individuals who have demonstrated outstanding

Sponsor:

excellence in public safety.

This is a time when we can personally give thanks to the fire, police and sheriff

personnel, and honor them for the outstanding service and sacrifices they make each day in keeping our respective communities a safe place to live, work, and play.

The luncheon will be held at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena,

500 Amphitheater Drive, Pelham. Reservations requested by noon, Monday, September 28. Investment: Chamber members $20, “Future” members $30.

Register online at www. shelbychamber.org or call the Chamber office at 6634542.

PCI Compliance Seminar “Changes You Need to Know” businesses to understanding the basics of PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance and how the October 2015 changes will affect your business procedures and how these procedures fit in the framework of fundamental data protection for your businesses.

The seminar will be held from 11:30AM until 1:00PM on

Sponsor:

September 10 at the Chamber office, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Reservations are requested by Tuesday, September 8 as lunch will be served. Investment is $10 for Chamber members, $20 for “Future” members.

To ensure we have a proper headcount, please make reservations for this workshop Monday, September 8 by contacting Brooke White, the Chamber’s Director of Business Development & Support via e-mail at brooke@ shelbychamber.org or by calling 663-4542, ext. 105 or register online at www. shelbychamber.org.

September 2015 | 59 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

In October of this year, EMV (Europay, MasterCard, and Visa) will become the new standard for credit/ debit card transactions. This will require specialized terminals and education for businesses. Come hear from professionals; Patrick Robinson with Renasant Bank and Benji Sawyer of Sawyer Solutions as they guide

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.

CANCELLATION POLICY REMINDER: Cancellation for a paying event must be made TWO days prior to the event.

Newsletter

September 2015

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11:30AM - 1:00PM - Ambassadors Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham 4:00PM - 5:00PM - Small Business Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham GSCC closed for Labor Day Holiday

8:30AM - 9:30AM - Education Work Group Shelby County Instructional Services Center, 601 First Street South, Alabaster Small Business Mentorship Appointments 8:00AM - 11:00AM/Michael Smith, The Good, The Great & The Gone Sponsor: Spectrum Business Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham By appointment. Contact Brooke White, 663-4542, ext. 105.

11:30AM - 1:00PM - Go & Grow Workshop “Being The Boss” Presented by Michael Smith, The GREAT, the GOOD and The GONE Sponsor: Spectrum Business Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham Reservations requested by September 4 as lunch will be served.

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

Calera Chamber Monthly Luncheon 11:30AM - 1:00PM/Timberline Golf Club 300 Timberline Trail, Calera Investment: $12.

No reservation required.

8:30AM - 9:30AM - Existing Business & Industry Work Group Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc., 3535 Grandview Pkwy, Ste 500, Birmingham PCI Compliance Seminar “Changes You Need to Know” Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham Reservations requested by September 8 as lunch will be served.

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

60 | ShelbyLiving.com Shelbychamber.org

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8:30AM - 9:30AM - Health Services Work Group Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham Entrepreneur Roundtable I Sponsor: Business Telephones, Inc. 8:00AM - 10:00AM 5:30PM - 7:00PM - Business After Hours Sponsor: Shelby County Reporter Champy’s, 10695 Highway 119, Alabaster Investment: $10 members, $20 “Future” members.

Reservations requested by September 14.

8:15AM - 9:30AM - Board of Directors’ Meeting Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr, Pelham Montevallo Chamber Monthly Luncheon 11:30AM - 1:30PM/Parnell Memorial Library 377 Park Dr, Montevallo Investment: $20.

No reservation required.

Chamber Golf “FORE!” Education Tournament Sponsor: HealthSouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital Inverness Country Club, #1 Country Club Dr, Birmingam See page 53 for details.

Entrepreneur Roundtable II Sponsor: Business Telephones, Inc. 8:30AM - 10:30AM 8:30AM - 9:30AM - Governmental Affairs Work Group Sain Associates, Two Perimeter Park South, Ste 500 East, Birmingham GSCC Community Luncheon “Annual Safety Awards” Sponsor: First Commercial Bank Doors open at 11:00AM. Program 11:30AM - 1:00PM. Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena 500 Amphitheater Rd, Pelham Reservations requested by noon, Monday, September 28.

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

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Music and Fireworks in the Vineyard

Morgan Creek Winery in Harpersville hosted an Independence Day celebration on July 4 with live music, wine tasting, winery tours and fireworks.

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1. Carleen Ozley with her granddaughter, Callie Wallis 2. Meghan, Diana and Remi Razer 3. Johnny and Denise Willis with Brenda and Tim Spurlin 4. Miami Kay, Christine Williams, Shirley McCaskill, Valerie Williams and Shawana Jackson 5. Carla and Scott Higginbotham 6. Chuck Bearden, Katelyn Dotson, Preston Bearden and Aiden Saly 7. Ryan and Lauren Hill 8. Sarah, Lydia and Isaac Mariano with Chris Harmon 9. Maia Johnson and Hailee Bearden

September 2015 | 61

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Pelham Palooza

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Thousands of guests visited Pelham’s annual city event, Pelham Palooza July 17 - 18.

Crowds gathered to see Echosmith and Casey James perform along with a long list of other vendors, demonstrators and other musical entertainment.

1. Lynn Peace Marino 2. Haleigh and Drew Kemmerly 3. Lucy Collier, Danielle White and Kasey Sams 4. Olivia Rye and Lindsey Storch 5. Jim and Terry Millican 6. Crystal Neville and Sarah Drake 7. Kristen and Peter Roberts 8. Matt Therrien and Craig Henderson 9. Olivia Phillips and Cameron Horton 10. Nicolas, Zachary and Shannan Cheatwood

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11. Emily Scott, Amanda Phillips, Kaylee Tunnell and Alia Malone 12. Andrew Perry, Camille Shepherd and Hunter Tilashalski 13. Robbin Fontenot and Sally the parrot 14. Vanessa Leckenby, Sara Hardy and Lindsey Glick

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September 2015 | 63

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Helena Market Days

On July 11, Helena Market Days was in full swing with fresh produce, homemade products and the fourth annual Best Butt in Helena barbecue cook-off.

1. Annikah Mishra, Bella Genrty and Meg Trammell 2. Robin, Preston, and Caden Sellers 3. Patricia Schafer and Steve Raley 4. Vicki and Anna Wilkins 5. Daniel, Courtney and Wyatt McHan 6. Jeffrey, Brandy and Ryleigh Nelson 7. Gail Doe, Louise Bass and Peggy Woodward 8. Brian, Liz, May and Micah Terell 9. Kyra Woodman and Jordan Elliott 10. Richard and Kelly Benson

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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Chelsea library puppet show

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Steppup, the North Shelby Baptist Church Puppet Team, performed for dozens of children July 1 as part of the Chelsea Public Library’s summer programs

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1. Sarah Roland and Christopher Robinson 2. Jessa Marshall, Amber Marlow, Laney Marshall, Sally Robinson and Ericka Cloutier 3. Asher and Aidan Hanson 4. Grant Foree, Christopher Robinson and Aaron Moss 5. Elias, Nelson and Sarah Serrano

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‘Accidental Grace’

The opening reception for “Accidental Grace,” featuring the UAB Department of Art and Art History, was held June 26 at the Shelby County Arts Council in Columbiana.

1. UAB exhibitors Britney Truitt, Christianna Traynor, Catherine Duncan, Stacie Reece, Jared Ragland, Devin Lunsford and Timothy Harstvedt 2. Christianna Traynor and Judy Traynor 3. Pam Johnson and Jan Gibson 4. Edna Sealy and Jerry Roldan 5. Kathryn Nabors, Jared Ragland and Tristan Nabors 6. Sandra Annonio, Bruce Andrews and Choko Aiken 7. Stacie Reece, Christianna Traynor and Britney Truitt 8. Judy Quick, Bonnie Atchison and Red Robinson 9. Natalie Celia, Timothy Harstvedt and Devin Lunsford 66 | ShelbyLiving.com

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Jazz in the Park

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Thousands of people packed the Helena Amphitheater on Sunday, July 12 for Jazz in the Park.

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1. Tony Alfred and Denise Deloach 2. Ron and Edie Lewis 3. Jeffrey and Lotonja Hill 4. Tammy and Greg Eddins 5. Kelly Hulbert, Michael and Lucina Mason and Allen Diana

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Liberty Day

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The 29th annual Liberty Day was held Saturday, June 27 in downtown Columbiana.

1. Miss Shelby County Amanda Ford, Blair Seales, Morgan Seales, Miss Alabama Meg McGuffin and Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen Tiara Pennington 2. Sallie Lawshe, Stephanie Nettles, Nancy Davis, Sandy Crumpton and Gloria Turner 3. Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley and Grand Marshall Evan Major 4. Judy and Gene Quick 5. Sarah and Edwin Atchison 6. Miss Shelby County 2015 Amanda Ford, Miss Alabama 2015 Meg McGuffin and Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen 2015 Tiara Pennington 7. Jim and Beth Strickland 8. Jennie and Alex Price with Connar Brasher, Brayden Morris and Riley Creel Morris 9. Cindy and Ricky Harmon

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10. Carolyn Knowles, Dr. Tim Nettles, Craft and Jennifer Maier 11. Cheyenne Wells and “Newt,� Nigerian dwarf goat 12. Mayor Stancil and Ann Handley 13. Sarah Elizabeth, Elizabeth and Drew Skelton 14. Ramsey Bentley, Ouida Mayfield and Stacy Bentley

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Liberty Day luncheon

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A Liberty Day luncheon sponsored by the Alabama Vignette Club of South Shelby County was held June 27 in Columbiana.

1. Carol Hill, Grand Marshall Evan Major and Harpersville Mayor Theo Perkins 2. Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley, Samantha Rush and Congressman Gary Palmer 3. Evan Major and Linda Major 4. Shearrod Todd and Miss Shelby County 2012 Sydnii Todd 5. Tresa House and Lynn Cox 6. Lisa McGuffin, Miss Alabama Meg McGuffin and Robbin Franklin 7. Meg McGuffin, Gary Palmer and Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen 2015 Tiara Pennington 8. Samantha Hyche and Lois Cooper 9. Jennie Owens and Anne Thomas 10. Ava Walters, Miss Shelby County Amanda Ford and Miss Shelby County Rising Star Emma Walters 70 | ShelbyLiving.com

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11. Frank and Carolyn Eastland, Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen Tiara Pennington and Dedra and Don Pennington 12. Edna Sealy, Judy Quick and Samantha Rush 13. Barbara Robinson and Nancy Drakos 14. Greg Ford, Amanda Ford, Tiara Pennington and Don Pennington

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Slip n’ slide day

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On Tuesday, July 14, the Alabaster Teen Council hosted a slip n’ slide for teens in the community. The event featured a 33-foot slip n’ slide with two different lanes.

1. Lauren Black and Nthabi Mashego 2. Eris Mihelic, Layla Obregon, Brinkley Gary and Steven Locastro 3. Nick Walker, Sam Pearce and Chris Miranda 4. Tyler Couch and Luke Nichols 5. Katharine Lillie, Grace Coker and Nyla Crear 6. Anna Gibbs and Molly Martin 7. Gavin Gray, John Stoneback and Aiden Cook 8. Maggie Keller and Sunni Graber 9. Gage Geeslin, Audrey Kuhlmann and Taylor Allen 10. Riley Ward, Sophie Trosper and Brayden Pitts

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SHELBY SPOTTED

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Shelby County Shindig

The Shelby County Shindig was held July 18 in Columbiana.

1. Judges Award by Industrial Staffing: Don Lemarr, Bill Annonio, John Rogers and Mike Martindale 2. Best Ribs by Alagasco: Fred Cottrell, Greg Key, Tony, Mario, Jerode, Zariah and Jordan Jackson 3. People’s Choice, Shelby County Reporter: Corley Ellis, Rhett McCreight and Daniel Holmes 4. Best Sauce by Columbiana Kiwanis Club: Sam Wheeler, Deason Benson, Sid Wheeler and Tim Walker

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5 Miss Shelby County

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The Miss Shelby County 2016 and Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen 2016 pageants were held July 17 at Shelby County High School.

1. Jennifer Maier, Ashley Venable, Lynn Cox, Tresa Cox, Kristina Nix and Jennifer Long 2. Kristen Robbins, Cassidy Jacks, Hayley Barber, Maddie Gathings and Shiann Harper 3. Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen 2016 Kyra Callens and Miss Shelby County 2016 Hayley Barber 4. Haleigh Gowers, Kortni Gowers, Olivia Carden and Gaylon Beasley 5. Kyra Callens, Pam Oliver and Hayley Barber 6. Mary Neuendorf and Laura Boyd 7. Becky and Tom Moore 8. Kyra Callens and Ashley Reeds 9. Samantha Rush, Peg Hill, Betty Broome and Betty Holcombe 74 | ShelbyLiving.com

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10. Jim and Linda Ford with Carolyn and Frank Eastland 11. Rachel Fowler, Barbara Robinson, Jennie Owens, Diane Moore and Lynn Cox 12. David and Charles Powell 13. Tiara Pennington, Kyra Callens, Meg McGuffin, Hayley Barber and Amanda Ford

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Chelsea Business Alliance meeting

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The Chelsea Business Alliance held a meeting on July 8 at Chelsea City Hall. The guest speaker was Keith Granger, president and chief executive officer of Trinity Medical Center.

1. Heather Vandevoorde and Thomas McFaden 2. Wayne Shirley, Bill Clifford and Ray Shirley 3. Dana Meginniss and Morgan Leigh Hoyt 4. Taylor Gell and Angela Howell 5. Shannon Cook and Kim Sorrell-Rohloff 6. Courtney Dunn and Kelley Catoe 7. Suzanne Moore and Robby Head 8. Becky Landers and Diane Thomas 9. Tavie Bender and Leisha Harris

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CLASSIFIEDS

Marketplace Shelby Living • 205.669.3131

ABBCO Service Corp., Hiring Part-time, 2nd Shift Cleaners • Clanton, AL Area. Experience preferred. Must pass required background checks.

800-246-3221 x524 Leave Name & Number WATERPROOFING! Wet & leaking crawlspaces or basement? We’ll repair!

Caulking, french drains, kill mold & mildew, grates installed.

24/7 service in most areas. Lic/ Ins CALL 205.230.8197, Tim Rogers Cartage Company is looking for Dry-Bulk Lime and Cement Drivers for our Terminal in Alabaster, AL. Call Brian 800-507-8848 www.tankstar.com ***Now Hiring*** Now accepting applications at all terminal locations • Paid Time Off/Holidays • Rewards and Recognition Programs • Retirement Plan/Company Match • Personal Benefits/ Health/Dental/Vision Insurance. floridarockandtanklines.com ACCEPTANCE LOAN COMPANY Personal Loans! Let us Pay Off Your Title Loans! Come by Acceptance Loan and apply for a loan today.

224 Cahaba Valley Rd Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-5821 Part-Time Property Caretaker for apartments/ Hoover. Duties include: apartment turns, cleaning, painting, maintenance. Apply: www.Accessiblespace.org or fax: (651) 645-0541.

Job Code 660 EOE/AA Company Drivers and Owner Operators Home at least once a wk. Exc benefits, pay. Must have Class A CDL w Hazmat & Tanker endorsements, 2 yrs OTR exp, good safety record.

800-338-2717

Advantage Electric is Growing Again! Looking for Journeyman or Helper willing to learn. Call 205-876-4269.

JOBS IN ALABAMA!!

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

HIRING CDL/NON CDL (w/ delivery experience). Excellent salary & benefits. DOT & MVR required. DFWP/EOE. Apply in person to: Alabama Crown Dist Co., 1330 Corporate Woods Dr, Alabaster, AL 35007. Fax resume to 205-605-1406.

RNs Alacare Home Health & Hospice is hiring Registered Nurses for the Clanton area.

Join Alabama’s Elite Agency – family owned since 1970! EOE Apply on-line www.alacare.com All About The Kids Wedding gown and formal dresses, short and long; cut glass, vases and dishes; Pfaltzgraff 10-place setting- tea rose pattern. Hwy 31- 1 mile North of Thorsby on Right 205-646-2880 There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions affecting 53 million adults and 300,000 children. www.arthritis.org LPNs NEEDED Please call or send resume: Monica Smith, RN DON • 205436-5601 • Monica.Smith@corizonhealth. com OR View jobs & apply @ www.careerbuilder.com EOE/AAP/DTR AS SEEN ON HGTV’s “Tiny Houses” Rustic cottages that you can put anywhere!

Visit Atkinson Homes in Childersburg, AL- across from Cadence Bank 256-378-1201

ShelbyLiving.com

Automation Personnel Services is Hiring For Forklift Operations, Material Handling, and/or General Labor Chilton County Area. Light and heavy industrial environment, great long term career opportunity.

Must pass drug screen and background check. Forklift certification and clamp truck exp. a plus, but not a requirement.

5857 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 Call 334.274.1004 For More Information Automation Personnel Services in Pelham Responsibilities include: Assembly, Construction Using Power Tools, Detail Oriented, Able to Lift 50lbs Regularly.

Requirements: Tape Measure Test & Drug Screen.

Applications Accepted: Monday–Friday 8:30am– 11:00am & 1:00pm–3:00pm.

We do accept walk in applications. 2145 Pelham Parkway, Pelham, AL 35124 (205) 444-9774 Foster a Dog...Save a Life!

Bama Bully Rescue www.BamaBully.org Bama Concrete Hiring Mixer Drivers • Local deliveries.

Class-B+ CDL, 2yrs MINIMUM heavy haul experience/ CleanMVR. Competitive Pay/ Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87, Alabaster, 35007 Bama Concrete Birmingham is looking for a QC Manager.

Must have knowledge of concrete, aggregates, mix design characteristics & performance, good math, communication & organizational skills a must.

We offer competitive pay, BCBS, supplemental insurance, company vehicle, 401K, paid holidays, vacation and sick time. Apply in person at any of our locations: 2180 Hwy 87, Alabaster 35007, 6500

Amber Hills Rd, Irondale 35173 Or 1088 Vulcan Dr, Bessemer 35022 Beelman is Now Hiring!

Diesel Mechanic Needed for Our Montevallo Terminal. Call Glen Madsen @ 205-665-5507 or email resume to: jobs@beelman.com Bibb Medical Center • LPN’s and RN’s. BMC Nursing Home • CNA and LPN’s All shifts: PT & FT positions available. Contact HR: bmchr@bibbmedicalcenter.com Apply On-line at bibbmedicalcenter.com Journeymen Electricians, $24 per hour plus insurance.

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

Greater Birmingham area. Call 205-849-5522 for details.

From drivers to logistics and operations to maintenance and driver relationships, at Boyd Bros., its more than just a job. Come check us out! www.boydbros.com Ordained Minister. Nondenominational. Willing to do weddings, large and small. I have been serving the Birmingham Area for 15yrs. (205) 515-8843 goodthings1975@gmail.com FREE GED SUMMER SCHOOL

by Central Alabama Community College. Now meeting in Calera: 205-668-4398 Columbiana: 205-670-9219 Call 256-378-2017 to enroll.

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

Hoover/Pelham Area.

205-253-5960 FT Driver for Dry Cleaner Delivery. Salary + commission, vacation, holidays, health & life insurance. Good driving record required. Call Billy: 205-602-3842.

COMPUTER DRAFTING: Affordable Floor Plans!

Presentation, Demolition, Renovation. Drafting available for other specifics also! Contact Kelly! 205-260-2769 or 251-463-5513 Class A CDL Drivers needed for Birmingham Coca-Cola and Tuscaloosa Coca-Cola Bottling Companies. Driving experience is required. Apply in person at: 4600 East Lake Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35217 Columbiana Health and Rehabilitation, LLC is hiring for the following positions • LPN Charge Nurse • Certified Nursing Assistant • Housekeeping Assistant, Part time. Interested applicants should apply in person to: 22969 Hwy 25, Columbiana, AL. Resumes may also be sent to: shannon.bell@ northporthealth.com FIREWOOD-OAK or HICKORY Pick up - only 6 cents per pound. Commercial and Residential delivery also available. Columbiana Wood Products. 21421 Hwy 25, Columbiana (205) 671-5202 Corizon Health, a provider of health services, is hiring full & part time in the medical field.

View postings & apply: CorizonHealth.com or www.careerbuilder.com EOE/AAP/DTR Noises in your Attic? Could be more than just wind! Critter Control of Central Alabama Call (205) 621-2180 Drivers Wanted: Class A CDLHome Daily, Full & Part-time.

Childersburg area.

256-591-3169 or 256-892-7692.

“LET DAWSON LANDSCAPE GROUP GET YOUR LAWN & PATIO READY FOR THE UPCOMING GAME

September2015 2015 || 77 September 77

DAY PARTIES” ! 15% Discount! Custom Outdoor lighting, Firepits, irrigation, weed control packages. dawsonlandscapegroup.com.

205-532-9793 $5,000 RN Sign-On Bonus For More Information Contact Annie.Miller@dchsystem.com Apply online at: www.dchsystem.com Homewood Area Package Store Clerk/Cashier Must be 21 w/retail experience, able to multi-task, work holidays/weekends. Good pay.

Customer service skills a plus.

Call Pam (205) 531-9187 9-3, M-W-F TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing.

800-476-3939 www.targetauction.com Disaster Restoration NOW HIRING •General LaborerWater Tech •Site Supervisor - Project Manager •Business Development Coordinator • Review job postings (Under About Us): DisasterRestoration.net or Submit a resume: pmest1991@gmail.com Dr Bobby Shunnarah in Montevallo is offering new patients Bleaching Special -- HALF OFF after full exam, x-rays, and cleaning.

Call 665-2224 for an appointment.

Dunn Building Company has an immediate opening for a CDL driver. Mechanic skills are a plus! Class A CDL required along with current long form physical and medical card. Must be willing to travel.

Drug test will be administered before employment. Benefits include BCBS medical/dental insurance, Aetna Life/Disability insurance, 401k, vacation and holidays. Apply by visiting: dunnbuildingcompany.com and download an application, send to kroberson@ dunnbuildingcompany.com or fax 205-510-0301.

EOE M/F/Disabled/Veteran GENERAL DRYWALL WORKERS NEEDED Experience Preferred But Not Required. Drug and Background Check Required.

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Apply In Person: 150 Princeton Lane • Jemison, AL 35085 HELP WANTED: Landscape Foreman & Labor Position.

Foreman must have 3 yrs exp.

Labor position- 1 yr exp. Must be a legal citizen, have DL & own transportation. Located in Hoover. Call Andrew 205-807-3200 Welder Training Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool.com $3000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area. Must have class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience. Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.

Evergreen Transport, LLC has an immediate opening for Day & Night Shift Class B Diesel Mechanics at its terminal in Calera, Alabama.

Job duties include repairing, maintaining and overhauling of heavy duty fleet truck/ trailers. If interested, please contact Shane Jones @ 205-668-3316 or apply in person @ 8278 Hwy 25 South in Calera, AL. F&M MAFCO is seeking a Mechanic to trouble shoot, repair and service rental equipment to include electrical/hydraulic/pneumatic tools at our Pelham, AL facility. Some mechanical skills/experience required.

EOE/M/F/V/D E-mail: hremployment@fmmafco.com Fax: (513) 202-8820 NOW HIRING Housekeeping/Janitorial In Alabaster Area. Apply Now at First Choice Personnel, 7001 Crestwood Blvd, Suite 118, Birmingham, AL 35201.

205-510-3100 www.fcpersonnel.com Commercial Driver Positions Available for Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia

locations. 2-years commercial driving experience and clean 3-year MVR required. Benefits included! Home at night!

Apply online: www.foleyproducts.com Or On-Site: 1091 Scott Dr. Clanton, AL

Sunrooms, Decks/Porches/ Stairs, Electrical, & New Construction. References Available. Licensed/Fully Insured. 205-837-2198 www.hernandezcompany.info hernandezcompany.info@ gmail.com

Experienced Mechanic Familiar w/all types of vehicle repair. Verification of experience required. Excellent starting salary/competitive benefits. Appointments only.

Call: 205-458-7318 EOE/M/F/D/V. Drug free workplace.

Real Estate Auctions ~ John Dixon & Associates www.johndixon.com

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

Jack F. Granger #873 Hiring Stylists Avg Pay $12 & Up Chelsea, Calera, & Pell City Areas 205-966-7254 Ground Effects Lawn Care and Landscaping (205) 9104558 Lawn Care, landscaping, hardscape, decks & patios, pressure washing. Free estimates. Mention this ad and get 10% off first service.

Gypsum Express LTD. Class A CDL Drivers needed!

Bridgeport, AL Terminal Opening Soon! Top pay and benefits, plus bonuses! Call Melissa @1-866-317-6556 ext. 3 Hardee’s Now Hiring • Crew Members/Hoover • Management/Calera. Email resume to: hardees2007@ bellsouth.net LPN’S, RN’S, CNA’S Full & Part time, 2nd & 3rd Shift. Apply in person: Hatley Health Care, 300 Medical Ctr. Dr., Clanton, AL 35045 Need A Healthcare Cerification? 2-Day Phlebotomy • 5-Day Medical Assistant. It doesn’t have to take weeks or months, get your certification now!

HealthCareCareerGroup.com (800) 897-1773 Hernandez Remodeling, Construction & More Remodeling, Painting (Interior/ Exterior), Roofing, Brickwork, Hardwood Floor, Carpet,

J&M Tank Lines, Inc CDL-A Drivers Needed for Local and OTR. $3,000 Sign On Bonus. www.jmtank.com Call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933.

Kerry Construction & Home Improvements: For all your home exterior needs.

Specializing in vinyl siding and windows, seamless gutters, doors etc. Call for free estimate. Roy 256-310-4905 or Thomas 256-282-0133 Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com 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 Immediate-Opening: Class A or B CDL-drivers. Must have 2-3 years’ experience, ability to work nights, days- some out-of-town travel. Tri-axle dump experience preferred.

Home weekends when working out-of-state. Clean criminal background/good driving record required. For more details: 205-755-7264 Or Apply-in-person: Lake Mitchell Construction

Price!

200 Ridge Dr., Pelham 205-663-1852 NEED A JOB? Lyons HR has jobs. Various positions available. Apply at: 490 Wildwood Circle N., Ste. 150, Birmingham, AL 35209 FT Drivers Needed. Must be willing to work days, nights or weekends. Wages begin at $10/hr. www.MacsDelivers.com 866-217-1928 or email amy@macsdelivers.com MACS Courier Service Service Technician • Top Pay, Benefits & Commission! Apply in person: Mainline Heating & Air 400 Hillwood Park S. Alabaster (205) 664-4751 McDonald’s is Now Hiring in Chelsea, Pelham & Alabaster!

Apply at www.mcalabama.com GUITAR INSTRUCTION If you possess an impassioned desire to study the guitar, I can develop your skills to levels exceeding your expectations.

Michael Shaw 205-670-5020 Shake up your career!!! Are you looking for something new and FUN? Milo’s is always looking for great managers to come join our growing and dynamic team. Apply online at miloshamburgers.com Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205389-4530. For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657 Ignite Your Career with Mspark! For current openings, visit: www.mspark.com/ our-company/careers/or send resume: wscott@mspark.com.

Mspark offers competitive compensation, benefits and a team-oriented work environment. EOE.

Others buy Gold, We buy Jewelry! 205-251-3381 Downtown Birmingham www.levysfinejewelry.com

Myer Place, Columbiana 2 br-1 bath with laundry. Now taking applications. 669-6120 or 369-0015

Lil Angels Learning Center Enrollment for ages 3 weeks to 12 years! Meals & Transportation to Most Local Schools included in 1 Low

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 Immediate OpeningPT/FT Employee for Medical Office- Alabaster. Must be willing to learn new skills and live in vicinity. Email resume; personal4@charter.net or fax: 205-664-9689 NuSteel Fabricators Inc. looking for skilled, selfmotivated structural fitters.

Must have prior experience with structural steel/ability to read blueprints. Pay based on knowledge/skill. Apply at 809 First Road, Childersburg, AL. Call 256-378-0880 or email LFranklin@nusteelfab.com

and Pell City. For more information and to apply, please visit http://qchcweb. applicantpro.com.

HIRING Afternoon Teachers for Christian Early Learning Center, 6wks to 4k in Helena.

Also, hiring Subs. Call 426-1910 or email resume to bill@rbchelena.org WE WILL REMOVE ANYTHING FROM YOUR BUSINESS OR HOME... FROM FRONT YARD TO BACKYARD FROM ATTIC TO GARAGE 205-810-5829 Salvation Army Bi-Weekly Auction • 1401 FL Shuttlesworth Dr, Bham.

Used electronics, furniture, equipment, bric-a-brac. Fee $4-$5. Public welcome! Call for details: (205) 252-8151

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

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

Wallpaper removing, platerings and drywall repairs. Same day service. 205-699-1001

Help wanted. Direction boring experience preferred.

Travel required. CDL preferred but not required. FAX resume to 205-338-1393 or email to palmgrenconst@centurytel.net or call 205-338-2017

Office Manager - Helena Small Business - Great communication/organizational skills, computer, social media experience a must. Looking to develop a long-term career?

Call Mr. Scott 205-664-9644

Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately. 3 Yrs Min Driving. History With Dump Trailer Experience *$1000 Retention Bonus *Local Hauling *Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC 251.470.0355

Pelham’s best kept secret!

Apartments are leasing fast so visit us today: 205-663-1101 or meadowwoodapts.info

HUGHES NET • Gen4 High-Speed Satellite Internet Is Available Where You Live!

FREE Standard Installation Limited Time Offer!

Ask about FREE router!

Call 800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com OTR Class A Driver in Montgomery, AL. • 3 years experience • $.40-.50 per mile • Paid weekly • BCBS Insurance • Home Weekends • EZ & prepass • Safety bonus Call: (334) 288-8106 Quality Correctional Health Care has several nursing opportunities in Columbiana

Looking for a Challenge?

Restoration Techs Must pass background check & drug test, have reliable transportation & good driving record. Will train! Serious Inquiries Call 205-424-4211.

Baptist Health System See current openings & apply at www.baptisthealthalabama. org RV LOTS FOR SALE! Big Deals starting at $49,500!

Oversized RV Lots with many amenities. 256-709-1820 Smith Lake RV Resort www.smithlakervresort.com Southern Haulers LLC CDL Class A Drivers Needed Immediate openings for Local & Regional CDL Class A Drivers. Req: 23 yrs of age, 1 yr Class A CDL exp necessary,

good MVR. Excellent wages, medical & dental ins, 401K, life ins. If interested, call 1-800-537-4621 or www.southernhaulersllc.com EOE PLUMBERS NEEDED Call 6822828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com Electricians Needed Birmingham & Tuscaloosa Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@ sps9.com St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Hiring for Outpatient Surgery Center • Surgical Technicians • Scrub Technicians • Experienced RNs. 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Hoover, AL 35242 Apply at www.stvhs.com/careers.asp IMMEDIATE POSITIONS!!!!!

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

Need valid DL. No experience neccesary. Long hours, but very competitive pay. Call Drew (205) 490-1003 or (404) 723-1322 CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham Call Stephen (205) 663-2822 Super Service has NEW Southeast regional truck driving jobs & opportunities that offer weekly home time & better pay! See more at: driveforsuperservice.com T & T Plumbing and Service Don’t get in over your head...

Call T & T for all your plumbing needs. Free estimates- Licensed and insured. 205-358-2499 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 TEMP FORCE HIRING NOW: Assembly and Inspection!

Childersburg & Vincent.

Full Time. 1st and 2nd Shifts.

Entry Level OK! Apply at TempForce: (256) 245-8367 www.tempforcejobs.com

Stable Hand Position • North Shelby County • To apply, call 205-991-9720 or 205-531-1355

Impaired • Income Based Rent • Gated Community 205-8367839 205-833-0532 Call today for an application and/or appt.

Landscape Position for Gated Community in North Shelby County • Apply MondayFriday, 8am - 2pm Call 296-2329 or 991-4653 for directions & information.

Steven’s Wack-n-Sack A Growing Lawn Care & Landscape Company seeking qualified applicants for Lawn Maintenance & Landscape Technicians.

Call 205-621-8531

Dr. Robert F Bradford Jr. is proud to announce the opening of Toothbud Dentistry, in Calera. Medicaid accepted.

Call and schedule your appointment today!

(205) 668-7766 The Tutoring Center BACK TO SCHOOL Get Your Year Started On the Right Foot. 205-987-9577 www.hoover.tutoringcenter. com HIRING EXPERIENCED CDL-A COMPANY TANKER DRIVERS IN YOUR AREA! Regional runs - Chemical hauls *Get Home Weekly!* **Earn Up to $60K Per Year** Average 2,000-2,500 miles/ week. Paid product training$800/week. Full benefits + 401K. CDL-A, 2 Years Tractor Trailer Experience,tanker and hazmat endorsements, passport and TWIC required.

Call 888-572-3662 Now! www.trimac.com

WALPOLE, INC. TANK & DUMP DRIVERS NEEDED! Walpole Inc is hiring local & regional CDL-A drivers w/ 2+ yrs exp and clean MVR. Great benefits! Call Valerie: 800-749-5552 or apply online at www.walpoleinc.com EOE/DFWP NOW HIRING CDL-A TRUCK DRIVERS $5000 Sign-On Bonus 3-years experience/ Hazmat Endorsement required.

Excellent benefit package: 401K, PTO/paid holidays, Insurance. Call Mary: 979-413-2140 or 979-413-2192 jobs@westernintl.com Whiteline Express, LTD is Hiring Qualified Regional &OTR Class A CDL Drivers!

Great Home Time! Contact the Recruiting Department at 888-560-9644 or online www.wl-express.com

Shipping Manager Manufacturing company is seeking Shipping Manager.

Some duties include Management of Shipping Team, working on computer, pulling orders, receiving, driving forklift. Fax Resume & Salary Requirements to 205-668-0431.

Tree Nursery Worker Needed- responsible with mechanical skills. Duties: Operating forklift, farm tractors and equipment.

Welding, ground maintenance, service equipment, check fluid levels & clean after each use.

Maintain safe/clean work area.

Requires valid-DL & reliable transportation. 334-365-2488

MANUFACTURED HOMES MOBILE HOMES with land.

Ready to move in. Owner financing with approved credit. 3 bdrm., 2 bath. No renters.1-205-289-8899 VMFhomes.com

HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT TODAY! World Heritage www.whhosts.com 1-800-888-9040 or 404-307-8830 info@world-heritage.org

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!”

Seeking Client Care Specialist for Hoover healthcare office. 30 to 40 hours weekly. Strong communication, computer and telephone skills essential.

Send resume to kmckenzie@ lavacapartners.com.

Villa Maria Apartments Affordable Housing for Ages 62 & above or Mobility

September 2015 | 79

OUT & ABOUT Calera Sprouts

Sept. 2

Nature Story Time: Nature Story Time at Oak Mountain State Park will be held at 10 a.m. on Sept. 2. Meet at the park office. There may be a chance for a short walk following the story, depending on the weather. Call Emily at 620-2520 for more information or email oakmountain.naturalist@dcnr. alabama.gov.

Sept. 3

SCAC Pottery Collective gallery exhibit

Aprille Hayes, Candye Lundy, Karen Ingram, Pam Britnell, Peggy Wood, Sandra Annonio, Stephane Dikis and Vickie Carter. All artwork is available for purchase throughout the exhibit on a “cash and carry basis.” Tickets are free. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Thursday. A portion of each sale is donated to the Shelby County Arts Council, a nonprofit organization. The Shelby County Arts Council is located at 104 Mildred St. in Columbiana.

For more information, 669-0044.

Nature Story Time

a first-generation diesel-electric locomotive while traveling through the scenic forests of the county. Upgrade to a caboose or locomotive ticket for a memorable experience and get an up-close look at railroad operations. The train ride lasts about an hour.

Tickets should be picked up at the Calera Depot about an hour prior to the departure. For more information, go to Hodrrm.org.

Sept. 6

Maggie’s Glen Hike: Meet the Naturalist at the North Trailhead on John Findley Drive for a Sept. 5 walk at 9:30 a.m. to Maggie’s The Light Trail Hike: Meet Glen. The hike is about 2-andthe Naturalist at the entrance a-half miles round trip. Dress to the Light Trail located in the accordingly and bring water. The campground at Oak Mountain group will go out on the Yellow State Park at 10 a.m. to take Trail, so portions of the trail will a walk and learn about any be uphill on the way. The group nature that we come across. The will return via the White Trail, Sept. 4 SCAC Pottery Collective terrain is gently rolling. Dress which should be relatively flat. gallery exhibit: The Shelby accordingly. Bring water.

Sept. 7 County Arts Council will Nature Crafts: There is beauty Calera and Shelby Train Ride: present the work of the SCAC found in a leaf, a twig or even The Heart of Dixie Railroad Pottery Collective in a gallery a rock. Let’s use some of these Museum will offer Calera and exhibit through Sept. 4. The natural items to make a craft.

Shelby Train rides on Sept.

5, public is invited to attend the The group will be at the B-side 12, 19 and 26.

The rides offer Opening Reception on Friday, Pavilion in the campground at glimpses into the past on board Sept. 7 from 6-8 p.m., to meet Oak Mountain State Park at 10 vintage railroad coaches restored the artists and shop the exhibit.

Collective members are all to their former glory. The Calera a.m. artists who have their “roots” in and Shelby Railroad runs on the pottery program offered by a portion of the former L&N Sept. 10 the council. Featured artists for Alabama Mineral Railroad, Seventh Annual Juried Art this exhibit are: Amy Pickens, established in 1891. Ride behind Exhibit: The Shelby County Arts Calera Sprouts: Come join an interactive story time and play group. Open to all crawlers up to 3 years. Come ready to sing, dance, listen and play. The group will meet from 9-10 a.m. on Sept.

3, 10, 17 and 24 at the Roy Downs Memorial Library in Calera. For more information, call 668-7200.

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Council will host the Seventh Annual Adult Juried Art Gallery Exhibit from Sept. 10 through Oct. 4. Artists will be competing for cash awards for “Best of Show,” Best of Each Category: Painting, Drawing, Ceramics, 3D Sculpture, Photography and Mixed Media. The juror for this year’s show is Nelson Grice, an Alabama artist specializing in animal sculptures and paintings.

The opening will be held Thursday, Sept. 10 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Shelby County Arts Council Gallery in Columbiana.

Awards will be presented at 7 p.m.

The opening reception is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Shelby County Arts Council Gallery is located at 104 Mildred St. in Columbiana. For more information, call 669-0044 or visit Shelbycountyartscouncil. com.

Sept. 11

Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale: Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale will be held Sept. 11 and 12 at Asbury United Methodist Church. The sale occurs once in the spring and once in the fall.

Many children’s clothes, youth clothes, toys, books, shoes, baby furniture and many more items are available for purchase.

The sale is conducted by a staff

OUT & ABOUT Calera and Shelby Train Ride

of volunteers. Proceeds are used to pay the consigners. All remaining proceeds are given to the Asbury UMC children’s program and various mission groups in the area. Fall 2015 consignor and volunteer registration is Monday, Aug. 3 at 6 a.m. online. Register at Asburygigglesandgrace.com The fall sale dates are: Friday, Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 12 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (half off select items).

fold: Instruction, inspiration and workshop. Participants will examine forms of writing that document history and use one of the forms to document the writer’s own life. Following an outlined workshop format, writers’ works will be read in class with class participants responding. The goal of the course is to capture each writer’s point of view. A public reading of the workshop results will take place on Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Bring an inexpensive composition notebook to class.

Sept. 12 Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Acting Up Kid’s Fall The class fee is $10. Registration Workshop: The 2015 Fall is limited to 12, and at least Youth Workshop (Acting Up) four must sign up to hold the led by Amy Hockinson, begins workshop. The course will take Saturday, Sept. 12 and meets place at Mt Laurel Library from Mondays from 6-8 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m. on Sept. 14 and 21.

Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Performances are scheduled Sept. 15 for Oct. 23 and 24 at South Harvest of Hope Luncheon: City Theatre. The script will The annual Harvest of Hope benefiting Oak be chosen to fit the students Luncheon enrolled so everyone can be Mountain Missions Ministries involved on stage. Tuition is $250 in Pelham will be held on Sept. and is due by the first workshop 15 at 11:30 a.m. at the Cahaba meeting. For more information, Grand Conference Center. contact info@southcitytheatre. A silent auction will begin com. South City Theatre is at 10 a.m., so come early to located at 2969 Pelham Parkway, browse. Pelham Mayor Gary W. Waters will be the keynote Suites J-K, in Pelham. speaker. Janet Hall, Fox 6 Sept. 14 Broadcaster, will be mistress Legacy Writing at Mt Laurel: of ceremonies, and The Wilson The focus of the course is three- Hill Band will provide musical September 2015 | 81

OUT & ABOUT Acting Up Kid’s Fall Workshop

entertainment. Donations raised from this luncheon make it possible for the organization to provide help for many clients. For more information, contact Dianne Cesario at 685-5757 or by email at oakmtnmissions@ yahoo.com.

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Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale

Sept. 17

Shelby County Drug Free Coalition Meeting: The next Shelby County Drug Free Coalition meetings will be held Sept. 17 and Nov. 19 at 8:30 a.m. The meetings are free and educate, inform and inspire the

things in order to survive where they are or they must move to another location. Come out to the B-side Pavilion in the campground at Oak Mountain Sept. 26 State Park at 10 a.m. to learn Animal Adaptations: The about the adaptations that animals that live in our animals make in order to “backyard” must do many survive. coalition members to do even more to help the drug situation in Shelby County. More people are needed and welcome.