Shelby Living May 2014

SHELBY Living Top

Dog Meet Warrior, Alabaster City Schools’ new therapy dog

Growing HOPE Vincent school partners with Taziki’s for gardening project

A pizza primer Your guide to homemade dough, sauce and Margherita pizza May 2014 shelbyliving.com

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Behind the gates Chris and Avery Akins create a family legacy with Alabama Furniture Market

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FROM THE EDITOR

E

very month I invite readers to contact me with questions, comments and, of course, story ideas.

I am happy to say you all oblige me often, and two stories in this month’s issue originated from our readers.

Maddie Bentley, a 12-year-old student at Briarwood Christian School, loves theater, show choir, cheerleading … and weightlifting. I first heard about Maddie’s story when her mom, Amanda Bentley, emailed me in February and described her daughter as “weightlifter by day/Broadway by night.”

Amanda also wrote that she had never reached out to a publication with a story idea before. There’s a first time for everything, and I am really glad Amanda contacted me. Maddie had recently qualified for the USA Olympic Weightlifting Youth Nationals competition in June. That in itself is worth a story, in my opinion, but the rest of Amanda’s email was what really caught my attention.

Maddie was passionate about weightlifting and obviously very talented, but she also

faced a lot of criticism, “mostly because people think it’s dangerous or they just don’t understand why a little girl would want to do this,” Amanda wrote.

Over the last year, Maddie has proven her detractors wrong, and shown a lot of pluck and grace during the process.

There is a lot more to her story, so I hope you will check it out on page 24.

Another story that began as a reader submission is the Vincent cabin. Phoebe Donald Robinson contacted me about the cabin, which belonged to her friend, Rachel Clinkscale. The cabin was built in 1846 – the same year Iowa was admitted as the 29th U.S. state.

Rachel’s husband, Bill, moved the cabin from Harpersville to Vincent and restored it.

I always love stories with an historical element to them, and this idea had an interesting twist with the cabin’s relocation.

I hope you will enjoy reading this issue of Shelby Living. As always, feel free to contact me with any story ideas, questions or comments. l

SHELBY Living EDITORIAL Ginny Cooper Molly Davidson Drew Granthum Cassandra Mickens Neal Wagner CONTRIBUTORS Laura Brookhart Lauren Heartsill Dowdle Linda Long Lisa Phillips PRODUCTION Jamie Dawkins Amanda Porter Jonathan Wise Jon Goering MARKETING Jessie Bell Kristy Brown Ashley Duckett Daniel Holmes Nicole Loggins Rhett McCreight Meagan Mims Kim McCulla Kari Yoder ADMINISTRATION Tim Prince Jan Griffey Katie McDowell Mary Jo Eskridge Hailey Dolbare Christine Roberts Laurel Cousins

Katie McDowell, Editor

Katie.McDowell@ShelbyLiving.com ON THE COVER Meadow View Elementary School student Justin McKnight poses with Warrior, Alabaster City Schools’ therapy dog.

Cover design: Amanda Porter Photography: Jon Goering

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

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

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

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@ shelbyliving.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 20.

4 | ShelbyLiving.com

WHAT’S INSIDE

Food 50

PIZZA PRIMER This Margherita pizza recipe is extra tasty thanks to homemade dough and sauce

50 May 2014 | 5

WHAT’S INSIDE

32

46

16 in every issue 8

THE SIMPLE LIFE

9

SHORT STORIES

53

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

61

SHELBY SPOTTED

80

OUT AND ABOUT

features 16

THE TRADITION CONTINUES Regions tour to remain in Shelby County through 2018

38

FRESH PICKS Farmers markets return with locally grown produce

18

TOP DOG Alabaster City Schools’ new therapy dog helps students do their best

40

PLANTING SEEDS OF HOPE Taziki’s partners with Vincent students in gardening project

24

LIFT LIKE A GIRL Maddie Bentley is headed to a national weightlifting championship

home & food

32

BEHIND THE GATES Chris and Avery Akins create a family legacy with Alabama Furniture Market

art & culture 12

14

THE DUDLEY FAMILY ACT Music is a tradition that stretches back generations in this Shelby County family SUMMER STAGE Missoula Children’s Theater to host Columbiana camp

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gardening

46

THE CLINKSCALE CABING An 1846 log cabin finds new life in Vincent

50

PIZZA PRIMER This Margherita pizza recipe is extra tasty thanks to homemade dough and sauce

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THE SIMPLE LIFE

Paper Clip Chaos

I

t starts with one “sticky note,” and then it’s a pile of stuff here and a pile of stuff there! Then, before you know it, it’s gone— the top of your desk, that is.

How you define your “desk” is up to you. It could be a conventional desk with filing drawers and a center drawer to hide a multitude of things.

Lisa Phillips, owner of SimpleWorks, Maybe it’s a flat surface with no Simpleworksmtsp.com drawers. Mobile office is another lisa@simpleworksmtsp.com option.

205.981.7733 Whatever the definition of your desk, having a space that is clean, streamlined and organized produces more time, energy and focus than a desk that is covered up with to-do lists, scraps of paper scribbled with phone numbers and invoices dated last month.

It begins with gaining clarity of what you want to accomplish at your desk. Do you see clients in this space? Should this be a creative zone? Productivity and practicality go hand in hand.

• Define the purpose of each space. The rule of thumb is to keep your active files closest to you, reference files accessible yet not in prime space, and permanent files can be in another room or storage area.

• Keep only “high use” items on your desk.

Computer, phone, calculator, stapler, pens, notepad, inbox/ outbox. If you use a hole punch every day—keep it within reach.

• Use vertical space for calendars, photos, flow charts, etc.

• Organize drawers with office supplies. Use containers to prevent complete chaos. You should not have a “junk drawer” at your desk.

• Have wastebaskets where they are needed. Near the shredder, where you process mail, at your desk, etc.

• Create zones. Incoming/outgoing mail, filing, work surface.

Keep them clean.

• Set a time to file every week if you don’t do it immediately.

• Use “like” desk accessories. All wire mesh, clear acrylic or leather. Don’t mix and match.

“A place for everything and everything in its place” will create a more efficient work space resulting in more accomplished at the end of the day. This in turn helps you feel more in control. By making your space organized and clutter-free, you are reducing stress and freeing up time and energy, thus improving your productivity! It’s that simple. l

By making your space organized and clutter-free, you are reducing stress and freeing up time and energy.

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SHORT STORIES

OMIS student helps make electronic Easter eggs Rachel Hyche, a visually impaired student at Oak Mountain Intermediate School, and her teacher, Stephanie HardwickGoldblatt, recently traveled to the ATF National Center for Explosives Training and Research in Huntsville to help construct electronic beeping Easter Eggs for use with blind and visually impaired children. The Alabama Chapter of the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators and ATF hosted the event, which has gone nationwide in recent years, but started in Shelby County. In fact, the project is named the Rachel Project in honor of Hyche.

Beeping Easter egg hunts will be held in four locations in Alabama this year in support of the Alabama Association for the Deaf and Blind main campus, Regional Centers as well as for the Alabama Association for Parents of the Visually Impaired (AAPVI).

UM receives $1 million endowment The University of Montevallo recently announced the Alice Aldora “Slim” Hyatt Endowed Scholarship, which is made possible by a $1 million gift given by the estate of Alice Hyatt and her best friend, who wishes to remain anonymous.

The gift is the largest single scholarship donation in school history, according to a news release from the university.

The scholarship is targeted specifically for piano majors, and will make many awards possible, up to and including full tuition, room and board, fees and books.

Hyatt graduated from Alabama College—now the University of Montevallo—in 1949. She majored in music with a concentration in piano and minored in physical education.

May 2014 | 9

SHORT STORIES

Walker wins Scholastic silver award Springs School sophomore Mira Walker has been named a national medalist in the 2014 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the nation’s longest running and most prestigious award program for creative students in grades seven through 12.

Walker won the silver medal for her personal essay/ memoir, “The Ceremony,” which was awarded a Gold Key at the program’s regional level. The national results were announced March 18 by the nonprofit Alliance for Young Artists & Writers.

Established in 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards boasts some well known alumni, among them Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, Joyce Carol Oates, Stephen King, Robert Redford and Ken Burns.

Weaver named emerging leader by GOPAC GOPAC recently announced its 2014 Class of Emerging Leaders, including State Rep. April Weaver. These legislators, who were nominated by a member of GOPAC’s Legislative Leaders Advisory Board, were selected because of the potential and ability they have shown to have an impact in their state and the Republican Party.

Weaver “Our Emerging Leaders program is a yearlong initiative to coach and develop promising state legislators on how to be effective legislative and political leaders,” said Chairman Frank Donatelli.

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ARTS & CULTURE

The Dudley family act Story and photos by LAURA BROOKHART

“H

ow about an adventure, boys?” asked Jack Dudley’s parents when he was 9.

Leaving the corporate world to pursue his passion for music, George and Judy Dudley became “The Farkles”—playing and traveling all over the Northeast, developing a following and making good money along the way.

“We moved from Niagara Falls to New Hampshire and they did their thing,” Jack recalls.

“They were the house band at a hotel in Cocoa Beach and later, after we kids were grown, they began a traveling Christian ministry.”

Though he has played music since he was 10, Jack Dudley only made his first bass guitar about four years ago.

12 | ShelbyLiving.com

“We motored up the Sipsey River in a flatbottomed boat and a farmer had cut down some cypress knees to let his cows get to the water, so I threw them in my boat,” Jack says. “I figured I would make something out of them and that’s what started me on this path; they ended up being pretty special.”

Dudley’s guitars are one-of-a-kind; he uses no patterns.

“Through the process I’ve been in touch with some big players—Jerry Douglas (dobro specialist) with Alison Krause/Union Station owns an electric lap steel and a resonator guitar,” he says.

Dudley’s ukulele is made from a cypress knee he calls a “mandolele.” It is a full-scale baritone uke with eight strings but set up like a mandolin.

Another is made from a Cedar tree with a redblood inlay, and his ‘Reso-knee’ was his first

LEFT: Jack Dudley creates guitars, ukeleles and more through his company Don’t Fret Instruments. ABOVE: The Phil Dudley Band includes Jack Dudley, Erich Cousins and Phil Dudley.

experimental resonator with the bottom made out of a Folgers’ coffee can.

“I tinker until it’s right,” Dudley says. His company name is Don’t Fret Instruments.

“We are just old guys that get together and are choosey about where we play. We don’t have the ambition we had when younger. On the other hand, (my son Phil Dudley) is young and incredibly talented and has a real bright future, if he pushes,” Jack Dudley continues.

Phil Dudley released his first CD, “Wonderland,” last year.

Phil has played as house musician at Oasis, Dale’s Southern Grill, Champy’s, Starbucks, City Café and Todd English Pub. He cites musical influences from all genres—folk music, Bon Iver, Kansas, the Police, as well as UK jazz musician Jamie Cullum and Celtic rock Canadian singer Loreena McKennitt.

Erich Cousins, whom Phil first met in First Baptist Church youth band, returned from nine months of National Guard deployment in Afghanistan and became the band’s drummer.

“Erich is a great creative young drummer,” Jack says. “He is a natural and just the right fit with Phil.”

“Right now we are taking it one step at a time,” Phil says, adding that they also have a Kickstarter Campaign to raise money for a performance video.

The Phil Dudley Band is booked for the First Sunshine Saturday Festival in Talledega on April 26 and at First Friday in Gadsden on July 4.

The Phil Dudley Band has two music videos filmed by Kevin Wayne Studios and a release show plus an opening act will be held on July 11 at workplay.

“Art is ingrained in us; music is all around us,” Phil says.

“People need to open their eyes to how important art and music are in this world . . . we would be so much less with out them.

They channel our emotions and spirits.”

A delightful rendition of Phil’s song, “Run Away With Me,” accompanied by his father and grandparents, is available on YouTube. Just search for the song’s title and Phil’s name. l May 2014 | 13

ARTS COUNCIL CORNER

Kids take the stage Story by AMANDA STEADMAN Photograph CONTRIBUTED

T

his summer the Missoula Children’s Theatre sails into port with all the costumes, scenery, props and stage equipment needed to produce a musical adaptation of “Treasure Island.”

Children ages 6-18 are invited to join the crew!

The Missoula Children’s Theatre was founded in 1972 and is the largest North American youth touring company. The company and the Shelby County Arts Council are presenting the summer theater camp, which will end with a performance at the Shelby County High School in Columbiana on Saturday, June 14 at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $5.

This camp will run the week of June 9-14, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., and will

14 | ShelbyLiving.com

give opportunities for attendees to sing, dance and act. For children who prefer back stage work, there are a few assistant director positions. The camp fee is $90 per participant.

Other camps being offered this summer by the Shelby County Arts Council include: • Spark Your ArtAbilities! Jun 1820, from 8 a.m.-noon, a special needs camp for students ages 6-10.

• Wild! Wild! World of Art! July 1418, 8 a.m.-noon, ages 5-8. July 21-25, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., ages 9-12.

Information and registration for all camps is available online at Shelbycountyartscouncil.com or visit the gallery located at 104 Mildred Street, Columbiana, 205-669-0044. l

ABOVE: The Missoula Children’s Theatre will partner with the Shelby County Arts Council this summer to present “Treasure Island” with a cast of local children.

tradition The

continues

Regions Tradition to remain in Shelby County through 2018 Story by DREW GRANTHUM Photographs by JON GOERING

S

helby County will play host to the Regions Tradition until at least 2018, the PGA Champions Tour and Regions Financial Corporation announced in a press conference March 18.

The PGA Champions Tour and Regions Financial Corporation announced a five-year extension between Regions and the event, which came to Alabama in 2011 after a 14-year run in Arizona, Hawaii and Oregon.

“Over the years, the Regions Tradition has been much more than a world-class golfing event,” Regions Chairman, President and CEO Grayson Hall wrote in a release.

“It’s also been a source of community pride. Regions is pleased to partner with the Champions Tour and keep this major championship in the Birmingham area for years to come.”

Champions Tour President Mike Stevens said at the conference the players were excited about the announcement as well.

“I can tell you it was met with much enthusiasm,” he said. “This has become one of the favorite events on the Champions Tour. The players really like to come here each and every year.”

Stevens said the prestige of the 16 | ShelbyLiving.com

event drew many of the Champions Tour favorites to the area.

“This tournament will see the best field all year,” he said. “All of our top players will be here. We’re excited to continue this tenure here.”

It was also announced that the event will be hosted at Shoal Creek in 2014 -2015, but will move to Greystone for 2016-2018.

The event started out as a one-year event at Shoal Creek, but after the success of the first event, has been a reoccurring event at the course.

Shoal Creek president Mike Thompson said he and the staff were looking forward to the rest of their tenure as host.

“Shoal Creek has really enjoyed our partnership,” he said. “(We’re) excited to host two more Regions Traditions.

We know Greystone will do fantastic job carrying on this tradition.”

Greystone president Dr. Jeff Clinton said Greystone will undergo renovations in preparation for the event.

“We’re thrilled to host a major championship at Greystone,” he said. “We know there’s a lot to do to get ready. We will be upgrading our facility and our golf course.”

The 2014 edition of the Regions Tradition will be held May 14-18, where defending champion David Frost will look to repeat as winner of the event. l

TOP: The PGA Champions Tour and Regions Financial Corporation announced March 18 that the Regions Tradition will stay in Shelby County through 2018. David Frost, the 2013 winner of the event, watches a putt sink on the tournament’s final day. BOTTOM: Former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice participates in the Pro-Am event, held before the start of the Tradition.

Top dog Alabaster City Schools’ new therapy dog helps students do their best Story by LINDA LONG Photographs by JON GOERING

W

arrior is a dog – four legs, nonstop wagging tail, big soulful eyes.

Yep, he’s a dog alright, but this 5-month-old Australian shepherd just can’t seem to wrap his paws around that fact.

Of course, why should he?

Between smooching with state

18 | ShelbyLiving.com

legislators, riding in parades, answering fan mail and hanging out with his best buds around Alabaster City Hall, Warrior hardly has had time to connect with his inner canine side. He’s too busy fulfilling his role as an official employee of the Alabaster City Schools, a role he takes very seriously, according to Dorann Tanner, student services

coordinator.

“He is a board-approved, full-time Alabaster City Schools’ employee. He comes to work every day,” she said.

He certainly looks the part. In his thick black and white coat and sporting a red bandana, Warrior is dressed in the school colors as he heads off to work with his adopted “Mom” Wendy McNish, a long time teacher and counselor in the Shelby County Schools, who came on board when the system was formed last year.

The idea to introduce a service dog as alternative programming for at risk students was actually her idea.

“When I interviewed for the job, one of the questions asked was if I had ever worked with any alternate therapy programs. I had worked with Hand In Paw and I knew I would love to see us get involved with it,” McNish said. “It was one of my pie in the sky things, a ‘What if?’ You know, ‘If I had the perfect job, what would I have’ I never dreamed we would actually have this program in place.”

Apparently it was an idea whose time had come for Alabaster students, because the two educators spent the entire summer looking into dog breeds whose temperaments would fit such a program, checking with breeders, brainstorming and trying to decide how they could make the Hand In Paw dog-assisted therapy program work for their school system.

McNish thought she had encountered one obstacle early on that could cause a serious setback.

“I had to own the dog,” she explained. “The school system pays for his care and upkeep, but I actually had to be the owner, which meant I had to buy the dog out of my own pocket. Once we settled on this breed, I found out they cost somewhere between $700 to $900 per dog. I said, ‘Well, I better start saving my money.’”

It was a job she was prepared to do until an Australian Shepherd breeder from Gadsden heard about her plight. As McNish recalls, “She contacted me and said, she just had a litter born on Sept. 1. This lady had actually benefited from a dog therapy program when she had been in the hospital.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Justin McKnight and Jaxon Bearden play with Warrior at Meadow View Elementary School. Warrior takes a nap after celebrating hump day at the ACS central office on Oct. 23, 2013. Warrior, an Australian shepherd, is being trained as a therapy dog.

May 2014 | 19

She received some therapy from an Australian shepherd that helped her at a low point in her life. She said she wanted to give us one of her puppies to honor her grandmother who had worked with children. She just felt like it was something she was led to do. It was amazing.”

Warrior came to live in Alabaster when he was 6 weeks old and apparently has fit into his role of the city’s top dog like hand in glove.

“I thought I was through raising kids,” said McNish, “but now I’m raising Warrior. In the grocery store or anywhere I’m out, with or without him, I hear students say, ‘Look, there’s Warrior’s Mom.’ When we’re going down the road, he always hangs his head out the window, and folks wave and honk and shout to us, ‘There’s Warrior, there’s Warrior.’ We had no idea this would be such a public relations thing.

No idea that the idea would be so popular, but the idea of Warrior has really taken off.

He has pulled the Alabaster City Schools together as a family. It’s like the old saying ‘It — Wendy McNish takes a village’ and that’s the process we promote as a family. We put our kids first and Warrior is helping us pull that whole concept together.”

According to Tanner, Warrior’s current duty is to be “a goodwill ambassador,” but when the puppy is a year old his training as a full-time service dog will begin in earnest. He’ll train with Hand In Paw to receive certification in their Sit, Stay, Read program, which works with students who are reluctant readers or have a hard time reading aloud.

“They’ll actually read to Warrior to help build that fluency and build confidence in their reading skills,” Tanner said. “We’re excited about that.

We think Warrior is going to love that because he

“I thought I was through raising kids, but now I’m raising Warrior.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Thompson Intermediate School student Anna Cate Tanner with Warrior. Jaxon Bearden with Warrior. Warrior and his “mom,” Wendy McNish, an Alabaster City Schools’ teacher and counselor. Meadow View Elementary students created a dog house for Warrior as part of a system-wide contest.

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TOP: Meadow View Elementary School employee Kip Mask with Warrior and the dog house Meadow View students created. ABOVE: Jaxon Bearden holds Warrior, during an Oct. 16 school board meeting.

22 | ShelbyLiving.com

loves kids and he especially loves it when they are talking to him.”

Warrior is also expected to be certified as a service dog in the No Bullies program, designed to give children the skill set to solve problems in a productive way for all involved and the courage to stand up for themselves and those who are weaker.

They also hope Warrior can be certified in a third program that helps teach at-risk kids better ways to behave responsibly. Tanner said he’s already doing that somewhat through his work with the “Alabaster City Schools Empowering Success” program for students who are academically behind.

“They work with him, brush him, play with him, take him out for walks,” she said. “Warrior is a great motivator.”

After being involved with Warrior this year, McNish is more convinced than ever that the animal therapy programs touch children in ways no traditional teaching can. Even children with severe special needs, some who are completely nonverbal, are excited to see and pet him.

“One little boy, who couldn’t communicate any other way actually blew Warrior a kiss when we left,” McNish said.

“His counselors said they had never seen him respond like that before.” l May 2014 | 23

Lift like

a girl Maddie Bentley is headed to a national weightlifting championship Story by DREW GRANTHUM Photographs by JON GOERING AND CONTRIBUTED

M

addie Bentley, a 12-year-old Shelby County resident, is out to prove that doing something “like a girl” is a compliment.

Maddie is a sixth grader at Briarwood Christian School. She enjoys theater, show choir and cheerleading among other things. She also happens to be a fantastic Olympic weightlifter. So much so, she’s headed to the USA Olympic Weightlifting Youth Nationals June 12-15 in Daytona Beach, Fla. While it’s not a sport that many other girls her age participate in, Bentley said she got started following her mother Amanda’s bout with ovarian cancer.

“My mom was sick with cancer,” Maddie said. “She had done CrossFit for about a year, and then when she started back, she started (at RPM Fitness in Hoover) and they had that kids’ program, (so) I started.”

Amanda Bentley said she and her daughters Maddie and McKlane, 10, began working out at RPM, now known as Godspeed Elite Sports Academy, in early April 2013 as a means of bonding while husband Rux Bentley worked in Columbiana.

“Obviously going through cancer is hard on them, and I wanted us to be together,” Amanda said. “So I tried to find something we could all do. I knew (RPM) had a kids’ program,

LEFT: Maddie Bentley, a 12-year-old sixth grader at Briarwood Christian School, is headed to the USA Olympic Weightlifitng Youth Nationals.

May 2014 | 25

ABOVE: With help from the trainers at Godspeed Elite Sports Academy, Bentley is working her way toward competing for a national weightlifting title.

26 | ShelbyLiving.com

and so they started doing the kids’ fitness program.”

While fully immersed in it now, Maddie said she had her doubts at first.

“The first time I did it, it made me really sore,” she said. “Then I thought, ‘Man, I’m not going to be able to do this much longer. (The RPM staff) kept encouraging me, so I kept doing it.”

It wasn’t long before she realized she enjoyed it.

“About two weeks later, they started teaching me how to lift,” she said. “About a week later, they started telling me I was pretty good at it, and asked me to be on the team.”

Though Maddie loved the sport, she quickly began to realize not everyone around her appreciated or understood her passion. Bentley said several classmates, mostly male, began to pick on her once they found out. Amanda said there was one incident

in particular that was tough to watch as a mother.

(One) day she kind of had a breakdown,” Amanda said. “She started hysterically crying. She was supposed to go to cheer practice and said ‘The kids are making fun of me about weightlifting.”

Amanda said while her maternal instinct kicked in, Maddie had a simple way of putting the bullying behind her.

“I was furious,” Amanda said. “She was devastated.

I asked her (what she wanted me to do), and she just looked up at me and said, ‘Will you just take me to RPM?’” Maddie said insults, particularly from male classmates, were tough, but she did her best to drown out her detractors.

“They said some just really mean things,” she said. “I don’t think they really understood it. I came

home crying because it really hurt my feelings. It kept going on for about a week, and then I finally just told a teacher, and that was kind of the end of it.”

Amanda said she was proud of the way her daughter handled — and continues to handle — the insults. While they don’t come as frequently as they used to, there still are some that just simply have trouble comprehending Maddie’s passion.

“She’s learned to turn the other cheek,” Amanda said. “A couple of (bullies) tell her she’s going to turn into a man. She tries to have the attitude that when people are making fun of her, it’s because they don’t understand.”

With the bullying mostly behind her, Maddie said she looked at it with a humorous view, and that she refused to let it deter her.

“It was mainly boys. I bet they were just scared that I was going to beat them up,” she said with a laugh. “I mean, I love it, so I wasn’t going to stop.”

So she pressed on, competing for the first time in Savannah, May 2014 | 27

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Ga., Aug. 21. She then sealed a trip to nationals in a competition held at RPM in November.

Bentley said had advice for girls looking to get out of their comfort zone.

“If someone tries to tear you down and make you stop, don’t listen to them,” she said. “Keep doing it. You might find that you really love it, and don’t want to stop.”

Amanda said she is proud of the strength — both mental and physical — that Maddie displays.

“I always prayed that my girls would be confident and strong. I just didn’t have (weightlifting) in mind necessarily,” she said with a laugh. “We encourage her that even though this is something unique and not a lot of people do it, if it’s something she’s passionate about, that’s the main thing.”

While the national title is her next goal, Maddie said weightlifting gives her the self-reliance to dream big and achieve bigger.

“It gives me confidence,” she said. “It’s just a really good feeling to know you’re lifting probably more than what half the boys in your grade weigh. I really want to go to the Olympics, probably 2020 is my goal. Right now, I’m trying to win Nationals.” l CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: In addition to weightlifting, Bentley enjoys theater, show choir and cheerleading. Bentley said her trainers, Duston Daugherty (left) and Chase Prime kept her encouraged when she was bullied.

28 | ShelbyLiving.com

Only

9999

$

May 2014 | 29

Behind

C

hris Akins was just 10 years old when he got his first job working in his father’s furniture store. He remembers it well.

“It was my responsibility to empty the Coke machine and count the money. I don’t think I ever got paid, but that was my first job in the family business,” he said.

The family business got started back in the 1920’s when Chris’s great-grandfather began carving out a name for himself on a north Alabama mountain in a place called Dogtown.

The four-generation enterprise, W.A. Akins Furniture, is near legend in Alabama. Now, Chris and his wife Avery, owners of Alabama Furniture Market in Calera, which opened in 2006, are working to start their own legend.

Like his two older brothers, Chris grew up in the family business, working in the warehouse and delivering furniture on holidays and weekends. The now near legendary “Dogtown,” Story by LINDA LONG as the business is known, began as general store Photographs by JON GOERING selling flour, sugar, and other staples. Furniture

gates the

Chris and Avery Akins create a family legacy with Alabama Furniture Market

32 | ShelbyLiving.com

sales came about almost by happenstance.

“On one occasion. My great grandfather came across some furniture for sale and he decided to buy it,” Chris said. “He put it on the front porch of the general store and it sold.”

From there, the Dogtown store grew into the sprawling 100,000-square-foot enterprise buyers flock to today. It was there where Chris Akins grew up learning the business from three generations of Akins who came before.

“Today, when most folks think of Dogtown, it’s synonymous with the furniture store, but for me it was home, the place I went to school and attended church,” he said.

Chris’s decision to follow in his family’s footsteps, however, took a circuitous route and almost didn’t happen when college took this small town boy from his Alabama mountain to the mountains of Colorado, where he did his undergraduate work.

With that done, Chris came back to get his law degree at the University of Alabama. It was at the Capstone where he met Avery. “Oh you bet it was love at first sight,” she remembers.

The young couple got married and began pursuing their own career goals, Chris as an attorney in Mobile and Avery a communications instructor at a south Alabama community college. Despite their very successful careers, Chris’s roots began calling him home.

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PAGE 32 & 33: Alabama Furniture Market opened in 2006. Owners Chris and Avery Akins . CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Chris said the goal of the store is to offer” stylish furniture at affordable prices.”

34 | ShelbyLiving.com

If you

As Avery explained, “We both really liked many aspects of our jobs and were appreciative of what we were doing, but part of Chris’s heart and soul belonged to the furniture business. His father, grandfather and great-grandfather were all a part of it, so when the Dogtown store began talking about expanding and opening another store in the southern part of the state, we saw it as our opportunity to try it.”

Chris remembers that it was a very difficult decision to choose between having a law career or starting a business. “ “Avery was teaching and I was practicing law,” he said. “We owned our home and were settled. It was a tough decision for us but we felt like it was the right one.”

He and Avery are quick to admit moving to a new town, building and opening their own business while raising three small children was an adventure with some twists and turns they often didn’t see coming. Adding to their challenges, they decided to build an apartment onto Alabama Furniture Market. That’s where they lived as the company got going while at the same time raising three small children.

“For the first few years we actually lived where we worked,”

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Avery said. “We lived the connection between family and work. Our children have always been close at hand. Our oldest daughter was only was only three months old when we moved in. Our two little boys followed closely behind. It was both difficult and exciting all at the same time.”

Looking back, Avery believes they really didn’t know all they were getting into, but ultimately they were “very glad” they made the decision.

“We went from purchasing the land to building the store, deciding what furniture to order, and even choosing the paint colors in each room. It was like a million piece jigsaw puzzle with all the pieces scattered out everywhere,” she said. “It was really overwhelming especially when we were also balancing what it meant to be parents.”

Chris agrees, saying there were both good and bad aspects of being so close to work. “It was the shortest commute I ever had,” he laughed, “and it was really nice to have the kids so close.”

What wasn’t so nice, however, was having customers come into the apartment looking for a bathroom and truckers knocking on the door at all hours wanting to unload furniture.

“I remember one time, this trucker showed up late one night. He said he only had a couple of pieces of furniture to deliver and could we go ahead with it. I followed him out and he had a whole truckload. It took all night and I ended

up unloading it myself. Sure there were ups and downs, but I wouldn’t take anything for the experience,” Chris said.

Now, with a home in Columbiana and a successful 70,000-square-foot combined warehouse and furniture store, both Avery and Chris can look ahead to the future.

“We like the idea of a market where different brands compete,” said Chris. “We tried to pick the best of what all manufacturers had to offer.

We want to continue to grow and still maintain our roots as a discounter, not trying to make a lot off of each customer, but doing a higher volume business. Our goal is to offer really stylish furniture at an affordable price. We try to stay up on latest trends as well as the classic looks.

We want to be able to give you different levels of furniture.”

Though both Chris and Avery say their business is not intended to be another Dogtown, there is one tradition that continues. A now fifth generation of Akins is growing up in the furniture business.

“All of our children learned to walk in the store,” laughed Avery. “They greet our customers and if children come in, they think they’ve come to play. They’re even pretending to write invoices.”

Looks like an Akins in the furniture business in Alabama is set to continue for years to come. l

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Alabama Furniture Market offers a variety of furniture and decor in the 70,000-square-foot store.

The Akins sell products by dozens of manufacturers in the store.

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GARDENING

Fresh

picks

Story by KATIE MCDOWELL COLUMBIANA FARMERS MARKET West College Street Open April 12-November Saturday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

CALERA FARMERS MARKET Oliver Park, 9758 Highway 25 Open June through August Tuesday, 3-6 p.m.

Calerafarmersmarket.com HELENA FARMERS MARKET 4151 Helena Road Open June-Labor Day Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon MT LAUREL FARMERS MARKET 38 Manning Place Open June-August Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon Mtlaurel.com MONTEVALLO FARMERS MARKET Middle Street behind First Baptist Church Open June-August Monday, 3-6 p.m.

Montevallofarmersmarket.blogspot.com VALLEYDALE FARMERS MARKET 4601 Valleydale Road, Birmingham Open May 17-August Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon Valleydalefarmersmarket.com CROSSCREEK COMMUNITY MARKET 600 Crosscreek Trail, Pelham Open May-August Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

SOWERS OF SEED FARMERS MARKET Behind Alabaster City Hall Open June 14-August 16 Saturday, 8 a.m.-noon

GARDENING

Planting seeds of

hope

Taziki’s partners with Vincent students in gardening project Story by LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE Photographs by JON GOERING AND CONTRIBUTED

F

or children who have been excluded, labeled as different or just misunderstood most of their lives, hope might not be something they experience. But for a group of Shelby County special needs students, that’s exactly what they found in a patch of dirt in front of their school.

Nine special education students from Vincent Middle/High School grew a business from the ground up, creating the Herbs Offering Personal Enrichment (HOPE) project. They produce and sell herbs from the garden at their school to Taziki’s Lee Branch and Liberty Park locations.

The idea for the business sprouted from a conversation between Cindy Vinson, the Shelby County Schools special education job coach, and Keith Richards, Taziki’s owner.

Richards, who already has 14 special needs employees who work in his restaurants, was talking with Vinson about other possible projects they could partner on. When Vinson mentioned an herb garden Vincent special needs students were manning, it caught Richards’ attention.

“Before I could finish, he said, ‘I’m all on it,’ and a year ago in

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Don Driggers, co-owner of Vincent Gardens, directs Vincent Middle/High students Eric Overton and Josh Thomas. About once a week, the students visit Vincent Gardens, where they grow herbs that they sell to the Lee Branch and Liberty Park Taziki’s restaurants. Eric Overton works in the nursery at Vincent Gardens. Arianna Lott, Mikayla Kelley and Ruth Driggers, co-owner of Vincent Gardens, plant herb seeds.

May 2014 | 41

ABOVE: Taziki’s owner Keith Richards, pictured center in the blue shirt, visited with Vincent Middle/High students participating in the HOPE project. Pictured, Eric Overton, Jennifer Moon, Josh Thomas, Cindy Vinson, Courtney Walker, Arianna Lott, Josh Chapman, Paul David Houston, Keith Richards, Amy Richards Mikayla Kelley, Tina Littlefield and Eli Harris.

RIGHT: Eli Harris, Rand Brasher and Courtney Walker show off paychecks they earned through the HOPE project.

42 | ShelbyLiving.com

“The earlier we start, the better.

It’s all for their future.”

November, we started the project,” Vinson says.

The possibilities for this garden were clear for Richards, who knew this project could be a unique opportunity for the students to not only make money, but to develop their skill sets.

“When Cindy told me they had some plants, I told her we could make this bigger,” Richards recalls. He suggested the students expand the garden, sell the herbs to Taziki’s and start a business.

So, Richards and his wife, Amy, removed the shrubs from in front of the school, tilled the ground and got the area ready for the students to start planting.

“I was going to get fresh herbs,” Richards explains. “Now, I know where they’re coming from – they’re coming from Vincent Middle/High School.

That’s pretty cool.”

The students are responsible for every aspect of this project, from maintaining the garden to measuring and bagging the herbs.

After they finish their regular classes each day, they head outside — Jennifer Moon to work in the garden for a few hours.

“They learn from repetitive work,” Vinson says.

“They learn what the herb is, how it smells, its texture and the different types of food they can use it in.”

They grow cilantro, parsley, basil, oregano and rosemary, and Richards pays them market value for the herbs. During the school year, the money goes toward HOPE’s account for the students’ field trips, classroom supplies or anything else they might need. When school is out for the summer, students

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can earn a paycheck for working in the garden.

“They take total pride in it,” says Jennifer Moon, Vincent’s special education teacher. “It opens up experiences we would have never had without the money we’re earning from this project.”

She says she can see the positive effects this project has had on her students: The juniors and seniors are learning the value of working and making money, Moon says, and her younger students are just excited about gardening and cooking with the fresh herbs.

“By gaining these skills, research shows they are more likely to get a job and have a better life outcome,” Moon says, which is her ultimate goal for them. “The earlier we start, the better. It’s all for their future.”

One of Moon’s students working with the HOPE project is junior Courtney Walker, who says her favorite part about working in the garden is picking the herbs. Besides gaining gardening skills, she says, “I learned to get a paycheck.” Walker, who wants to work at a hospital after high school, says being responsible for the business makes her happy.

“To see the students light up and for them to tell you about the herbs and what it’s used for at Taziki’s is really amazing,” May 2014 | 43

Vinson says. “It just shows that students with special needs can do stuff – they can do a lot. It’s giving the students a fulfillment of something that is theirs.”

It also provides the students with valuable experiences and abilities they might not have had otherwise.

“They learn a skill they could never have learned sitting in a classroom,” Richards says. “It gives these kids the opportunity to grow mentally, physically and spiritually.”

Right now, the herbs are kept in raised beds in front of the school, but that won’t be the case for much longer, says Vincent Principal Joel Dixon. The school is building a greenhouse where the students can house and grow herbs year round, and they hope to have it finished by the spring, he says.

“I really think the project’s going to continue to flourish, much like the students’ job skills,” Dixon says. “I think there’s a real sense of ownership, pride and community in it for them. It’s their thing, and they take it seriously.”

The entire process has been a team effort within the school.

Vocational technology teacher Ted Gipson and his students helped to construct the greenhouse; Davion Singleton, the business education teacher, worked with the students to create business and marketing plans; Paul David Houston, paraprofessional, researched the growing aspect of the herbs; 44 | ShelbyLiving.com

and both special and regular education students have come together every step of the way to help this project succeed.

Even with a new greenhouse on the way for the Vincent students, the HOPE project isn’t finished expanding. Other schools, including Shelby County High and Montevallo High, are building greenhouses to start this project for their students.

By spreading this project around the county, state and nation, those involved are hopeful it will bring an understanding about special needs students and what all they are capable of achieving.

“This kind of makes people aware that people with special needs or disabilities aren’t much different from anyone else,” Vinson says. “We all have a disability – these kids just have more than others.”

Richards also hopes to cultivate similar projects with his franchisees – and with other local businesses.

“There are a lot of business leaders in Shelby County,” Richards says. “It’s just about opening their doors and hearts about hiring some of these students.” l CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Vincent Middle/High students work at Vincent Gardens in March. Josh Chapman, Paul David Houston, Eric Overton, Courtney Walker, Mikayla Kelley and Arianna Lott bag herbs at Vincent Middle/High School. Arianna Lott and Ruth Driggers plant seeds in March.

May 2014 | 45

HOME & FOOD

The Clinkscale cabin I An 1846 log cabin finds new life in Vincent Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Photographs by JON GOERING

46 | ShelbyLiving.com

n the year Rachel Clinscale’s Vincent cabin was built, the Mexican-American War began, James K. Polk was president and Iowa was admitted as the 29th U.S. state.

The cabin was built in 1846 on Dead Hollow Road in Harpersville.

It would remain there until 1986, when Rachel’s husband, Bill, decided to move the dilapidated cabin to Vincent and restore it.

At the time, Rachel had a fourbedroom house in Leeds, and she worried about the move.

“Because I loved him so much, I guess,” she said of her decision to move to the cabin with Bill, who died in 2002. “I remember saying one time, ‘I’d live in a pigpen with Bill.’”

Rachel said Bill was enamored by the idea of living in a log cabin.

Their cabin was located on the land of Wallace Hallmark, who said Bill

could take the cabin if he cleaned up the site after he removed the structure. The cabin was uninhabited and had fallen into disrepair.

“I don’t know how many years it had been since someone lived in it,” Rachel said.

Luckily, Bill, an electrician, was well up to the job of restoring the cabin and bringing it up to modern standards.

“He did all the work himself,” Rachel said. “He took off work for a year.”

With the help of family, including Bill’s father, who was in his 90s, the Clinkscales restored the cabin during a 10-month period in 1986. Rachel and Bill lived in a trailer on the land during the process.

They numbered each log as it was removed from the original site, which allowed for easier reassembly in Vincent. The site they chose is in a rural area near Calcis, an unincorporated community that was home to rock quarries.

They reassembled the house with the original walls and May 2014 | 47

48 | ShelbyLiving.com

floors, but they made a few additions, including a master bedroom and bathroom. They also built a staircase and upstairs area.

“The house was originally put together with pegs, so they used pegs to put the stairs up,” Rachel said.

They moved in just before Thanksgiving 1986, and began filling their home with antiques, often traveling to Pennsylvania to search for items. Almost everything in the home is an antique with the exception of the sofa, chairs and TV in the den. The clawfoot bathtub and toilet in the master bathroom date back to the 1920s, as does the gas stove in the kitchen.

“We had an electric oven with a side oven until 1993 when we had that blizzard. We were out of power and heat and everything for a week, so then we put in gas,” Rachel said.

Although Rachel planted daffodils, the surrounding woods provide plenty of natural beauty, including a honeysuckle bush and plenty of other native trees and plants.

Rachel, whose first husband was killed in the Vietnam War, still lives in the cabin. She has several neighbors in the rural area, including her daughter and her family, who live down the road. Although the house does not have central heating or air, it does have a working Internet connection, which Rachel uses often for her work with the Blue Star Salute Foundation and the Shelby County Historical Society.

After 22 years, she still loves the cabin and her tranquil surroundings.

“It’s just a very comfortable place, and I’m not afraid to be here,” she said. “A lot of people wouldn’t live in a place like this, but I enjoy it.” l PAGE 46: The loft of Rachel Clinkscale’s cabin features several beds for visiting family and friends. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The cabin was built in 1846 and was relocated to Vincent from Harpersville. The gas stove dates back to the 1920s. Bill Clinkscale built the stairs leading up to the loft with the help of family and friends. Rachel Clinkscale has lived in the cabin for 28 years.

May 2014 | 49

HOME & FOOD

Pizza primer This Margherita pizza recipe is extra tasty thanks to homemade dough and sauce Produced by BIRMINGHAM BAKE AND COOK Photographs by JON GOERING

50 | ShelbyLiving.com

MARGHERITA PIZZA HOW-TO Crust Dough recipe from Melanie Thorn. This dough is not only foundational, but extremely versatile!

Ingredients: 1 Envelope Fast-rising, dry yeast 1 Cup Warm water (105 -115 degrees) 2 tsp.

Sugar 3 Cup + All-purpose flour 1 tsp.

Salt 2 Tbsp.

Olive oil As needed Cornmeal

1

1. Combine yeast and water in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Sprinkle sugar over mixture and gently stir to dissolve the yeast. Allow to bloom for five minutes.

2. Add the olive oil and stir. Combine flour and salt in bowl. With the mixer on low, slowly add the flour mixture a little at a time until incorporated. When the dough starts to come together, increase the speed of the mixer. Every once in a while, scrape the dough off the hook. This takes about five minutes.

2

4. Place dough on lightly floured board and

knead for two minutes or so until the dough feels combined and smooth, but still a bit sticky.

5. Place in a bowl coated with olive oil of cooking spray, cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 20 minutes.

6. Once the dough is domed and feels spongy, place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll and stretch it into a cylinder and cut it into two even pieces. Let it rest for an additional 10 minutes to make rolling out easier.

3

7. Sprinkle pizza pan, peel, etc with 1- 2 tablespoons of cornmeal. Place the dough on the cornmeal and stretch and roll the dough shaping a 12-inch circle, about Âź-inch thick.

8. Add toppings. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 – 20 minutes until crust is crisped.

Notes: Get a feel for the dough. If it feels too wet, add a bit of flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it feels too crumbly and dry, add additional water.

Yield:2 each, 10-12 inches

4 May 2014 | 51

Sauce

Classic Margherita Pizza

Ingredients: 2 Each Garlic, fresh, minced 3 Tbsp.

Olive oil Pinch Crushed red pepper 28 oz.

San Marzano plum tomatoes, canned, crushed with your hands As needed Salt

Ingredients: 1 Each Prepared pizza dough As needed Cornmeal 1/2–3/4 cup Pizza sauce, recipe follows 6 Ounces Fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced or torn 10–12 Each Basil leaves, fresh, whole As needed Extra virgin olive oil

1. Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat until

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place pizza stone or inverted sheet pan on the bottom rack to heat up with your oven for at least 30 minutes.

just golden, about 1 minute. Add the crushed red pepper and give it a quick stir.

2. Add tomatoes with their liquid. Bring to a simmer. Do not boil.

3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, up to 10-15 minutes or so. Season with salt.

4. Cool prior to spreading on pizza dough.

Note: Regular canned crushed tomatoes may be substituted, but the San Marzano tomatoes make a huge difference.

Yield: 3 cups

52 | ShelbyLiving.com

2. Roll and stretch the dough into a 12-14-inch round and place it on a cornmeal dusted pizza peel.

3. Spoon and spread 1/2 – 3/4 cup of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch rim around the edge.

4. Distribute the shards of fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.

5. Slide the pizza onto your heated stone / pan and cook until the crust is cooked through, crisp and browned and the cheese melted.

6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle torn basil leaves over the pizza. Drizzle with good quality olive oil. Cut into desired wedges. Serve immediately.

Yield: 1 each, 12-14

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 Healthcare Reform Update Workshop Andy Andrews, Sirote & Permutt, PC; David Platt, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama and Marc Ruggerio, Fisher Investments as the moderator.

In addition to the update, this will be an excellent opportunity for small business owners to ask specific questions regarding the Healthcare Reform/ Affordable Care Act. The fee for participants is

Sponsored by:

$5 for members and $15 for future members and includes a continental breakfast. The doors will open at 7:30AM with the program beginning at 8:00AM. Reservations are required

and can be made online at www.shelbychamber. org, email Keyla@ shelbychamber.org, call the Chamber RSVP line at 6638747 or call the Chamber office at 663-4542.

Panel Speakers:

Chamber To Launch New Entrepreneur / Small Business Mentorship Program in June The Chamber is pleased to announce that beginning in June of this year, a new Entrepreneur / Small Business Mentorship program will launch through its Business Support Center sponsored by Charter Business.

Beginning in June on the 2nd Tuesday of each

month, Michael Smith with the The Great, The Good and The Gone will be available for one-on-one confidential meetings with any entrepreneur or small business owner to discuss opportunities, challenges they may be facing.

Appointments will be available from 8:00AM-

11:00AM on those dates.

Then from 11:30AM2:00PM, the Chamber will hold a “Go & Grow” Workshop on various topics designed to help businesses of all sizes grow.

If there is a specific topic which your business would like to have covered, please contact Brooke Story,

Sponsored by:

the Chamber’s Director of Business Development and Support by phone at 663-4542 or via e-mail at brooke@shelbychamber. org.

Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

With changes coming monthly, small businesses need to make sure they are “up-to-speed” on the latest developments regarding the Affordable Care Act. This workshop, scheduled for May 15 from 7:30AM until 9:00AM at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham, will feature a panel consisting of Brian Massey, St. Vincent’s Health Systems;

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Thank you to Shelby Baptist Medical Center for being the cosponsor of the Greater Shelby Chamber’s 33rd Annual Meeting. The meeting featured 2013 Chamber Chair David Nolen, Renasant Bank handing the gavel over to 2014 Chamber Chair Bill Keller, Regions Bank, a copy of the Chamber’s 2013 Annual Report, recognizing our leadership teams and more.

Thank you to MetLife Financial Group of the South for being the sponsor of the “State of the County” Membership Luncheon featuring Shelby County Manager Alex Dudchock as our keynote speaker.

Newsletter

The Greater Shelby Chamber held it’s first quarter Coffee Net event in March, an hour of morning networking, coffee, and other light refreshments. Thank you to our host Verizon Wireless 280.

Congratulations to The FARM: Functional Athletic Rehabilitation Medicine on its recent grand opening. Owners Dr. Beau Beard, DC, MS and Dr. Sloan Burdick, DC, MS have opened a premiere sports chiropractic and injury rehabilitation clinic to serve Shelby County and the surrounding areas.

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Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Snapshots

Congratulations to Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center on the grand opening of its new office in Pelham. Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center is a leading destination for the comprehensive treatment of orthopaedic and sports medicine injuries.

Greater Shelby Chamber members enjoyed a spectacular evening at the Business After Hours held at Ice & Coal Gallery in Helena. The unique art pieces created a warm and inviting atmosphere for the 60+ attendees. Thank you to Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. for being the 2014 Business After Hours presenting sponsor.

The Greater Shelby Chamber’s March Membership Luncheon featured a “State of the County” address by keynote speaker Alex Dudchock, Shelby County Manager (c). Shelby County has worked through drastic decreases in revenue over the past few years by maintaining conservative budget management principles and consistent practices.

The Greater Shelby Chamber held its Annual “Montgomery DriveIn” sponsored by AT&T of Alabama. The 2014 program, included lunch with our Shelby County Legislative delegation, meetings with Governor Bentley and the following Departments: Economic Development & Community Affairs, Commerce, Education, Labor, Transportation and more.

Thank you to Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. for being the cosponsor of the Greater Shelby Chamber’s 33rd Annual Meeting. The meeting featured 2013 Chamber Chair David Nolen, Renasant Bank handing the gavel over to 2014 Chamber Chair Bill Keller, Regions Bank, a copy of the Chamber’s 2013 Annual Report, recognizing our leadership teams and more.

Newsletter

Congratulations to Canales Orthodontics on its grand opening in Alabaster. Drs. Chris and Angie Canales and their staff are committed to providing comprehensive orthodontic care for children, adolescents and adults.

Shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Decision 2014: Forums To Provide Access to Candidates

Newsletter

The Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Work Group will be co-hosting a series of Candidates’ Forums along with Shelby County Newspapers and the Shelby County Republican Party this month to provide an opportunity for Chamber members and the business community to meet and gather information from candidates running for elected office, and ultimately make an informed decision.

The Forums schedule is: May 6: State House District 73 (5:30-7:00PM @ Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena) May 8: U.S. Congressional District 6 (5:30-7:30PM @ Cahaba Grand Conference

Shelbychamber.org

Center) May 20: State Senate District 11 (5:30-7:00PM @ Shelby County High School Auditorium) The South Shelby Chamber is also co-hosting this event.

May 21: Shelby County Sheriff (11:00AM-1:00PM @ Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena) May 22: State House District 43 (5:30-7:30PM @ New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church) Candidates in each of these races have been invited to participate in their respective Forum. Get to know the candidates by attending these Forums.

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New Members (As of March 25, 2014)

Alabama Law Services, LLC

Justin Smitherman

4685 Highway 17, Suite D, Helena

alabamalawservices.com

Attorneys

Cannon Confidential Investigations, LLC

Cris Cannon

P.O. Box 314, Wilsonville

cciprivateinvestigator.com

Investigative Services

Gina H. McDonald & Associates, LLC

Gina McDonald

2057 Valleydale Rd., Ste 200, Hoover

ginamcdonaldlaw.com

Consulting

MedSouth Family Care

Mary Frey

201 Doug Baker Blvd., Hoover

Mspark

Nicole Carroll

5901 Hwy 52 East, Helena

mspark.com

Direct Mail Marketing

North Shelby Dental Studio

Shannon Martin

2000 Southlake Park, Ste 250, Hoover

davidcowandmd.com

Dental

Parc at Cahaba River

Misty Ford

50 Cahaba River Parc, Birmingham

parcatcahabariver.com

Apartments & Leasing

Perlis Photography

Melissa Perlis

1126 9th Avenue SW, Alabaster

perlisphotography.com

Photography Services

Story Automotive, LLC

Dave Story

101 Glengerry Dr., Pelham

storyautomotive.com

Automotive Dealer

Physical Activity: Benefits Now and Later

By Deborah D. Brock, DPT, Physical Therapist, Healthsouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital and Peyton Fandel, SPT, University of Mississippi Medical Center Many of us have looked in the mirror or tried to squeeze into a pair of jeans at some point and said, “I have GOT to lose weight!”

While physical appearance is one reason to exercise, the benefits of physical activity in the short- and long-term are far greater than just looking good.

In the short term, physical activity helps individuals maintain a healthy weight and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.

There’s a financial benefit too.

A study performed by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention revealed that medical costs for active people are lower on average

than those for their inactive peers.

Long-term benefits of exercise include reducing health risks and strengthening bones and joints. Research shows that physical activity reduces the risk of acquiring health conditions including heart disease and heart attacks, diabetes, colon cancer, high blood pressure, and obesity.

Physical activity also plays an important role in building and maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and joints. Active older individuals have a reduced risk of falling and breaking bones, and generally will have a higher level of functional mobility than their sedentary counterparts.

Women, especially, can make a significant impact on their later quality of life by participating in resistance exercises (using weights or rubber bands), which

help build bone density, the “strength” or amount of minerals packed into bone tissue. This begins to decrease in adulthood and declines more rapidly after menopause. Osteoporosis, or low bone density, can result in hip, wrist, or back fractures leading to reduced mobility. Resistance exercises combat the agerelated reduction in bone density and help to prevent bone fractures.

It’s never too late to start!

No matter your age, you can achieve benefits from an active lifestyle.

Of course, the younger you are when you start, the greater the cumulative effect of those benefits.

But elderly individuals can see improvements in balance and ability to get around, reduce their fall risk, and lessen feelings of depression, making the effort worthwhile.

How should I begin? The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate activity five days a week, but it doesn’t have to happen all at one time. For example, you can do three 10-minute bouts of exercise during the course of a day.

The main goal is to increase your heart rate so that you feel mildly short of breath during the activity.

It’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor when starting an exercise plan, especially if you have any health conditions.

Now let’s all get moving so we can have a better life both now and later!

May 2014 | 57 Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

Medical General

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

2013 Ambassador of the Year

Newsletter

Congratulations to Vicki Everett, Juice Plus+ Franchise Owner, for being named the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce 2013 Ambassador of the Year!

Vicki has been an Ambassador with the Chamber for over three years and she’s been a huge asset right from the start!

She is a former Special Education teacher and administrator that would counsel children and adults the role of whole food nutrition and how to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Juice Plus+ is a 20 year old global business, reaching 20+ countries and is the most thoroughly researched brand name nutritional product in the world with 23+ studies in peer reviewed medical journals.

Juice Plus+ has 26 vine ripened fresh vegetables, fruits, berries and 2 grains and is available in GARDEN to CAPSULE or SOFT CHEW and offers The TOWER GARDEN by JUICE PLUS+ which is 20 to 28 vegetable plants ... serving TOWER to

(as of 2/17/14)

Officers Bill Keller Regions Bank (Chair) Lisa McMahon Warren, Averett, LLC (Chair-Elect) Paul Rogers Aliant Bank (Vice Chair, Business Development)

TABLE. Vicki is active in her community with her church, professional organizations, Highland Lakes Garden Club President, and an Ambassador with the Greater Shelby County and South Shelby Chambers, giving back her time and talents.

In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two sons, especially with Auburn football!

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

2014 CONTINUAL SPONSORS 280 Living A.C. Legg, Inc.

Jefferson State Community College

America’s First Federal Credit Union

Legacy Community Federal Credit Union

AT&T of Alabama

MetLife Financial Group of the South

Business Telephones, Inc. Cahaba Grand Conference Center Daniel Corporation FastSigns Graham & Associates, CPA’s HealthSouth Lakeshore Rehabilitation Shelbychamber.org

GSCCC Board of Directors

Shelby Baptist Medical Center Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. The GREAT The GOOD and The GONE The UPS Store - Hoover

John D. Browning Cahaba Valley Computer Services, LLC (Vice Chair, Communications) April Weaver Shelby Baptist Medical Center (Vice Chair, Community & Workforce Development) Keith Barfield Barfield, Murphy, Shank & Smith (Vice Chair, Finance & Administration)

Joe Sullivan (2014) Sullivan Communications, Inc. Tim Bowen (2015) Alabama Power Company David Platt (2015) Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama James E. Purvis (2015) A.C. Legg, Inc. Charlie Stevens (2015) Thompson Tractor, Inc. Tim Benefield (2016) Buffalo Rock Company Linda Cencula (2016) Alabama Telco Credit Union Steve Chapman (2016) Alabama Gas Corporation Kathy Copeland (2016) White Rock Quarries — Vincent Hills Bruce Fryer (2016) Lhoist North America

Keith Brown Jefferson State Community College (Vice Chair, Membership & Marketing)

Gregg Maercker (2016) First Commercial Bank

David L. Nolen Renasant Bank (Immediate Past Chair)

Chris Grace (*) Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc.

Directors

Amanda Mundy (*) Cardiovascular Associates

Katie McDowell (2014) Shelby County Newspapers, Inc. David Schlueter (2014) Buck Creek Stained Glass

Sam Tucker (*) Charter Business (*) Serving a one-year term in 2014.

Michael Smith (2014) The Great, The Good, and The Gone

Contact Us

Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham, Alabama 35124 Office: (205) 663-4542 • Fax: (205) 663-4524 RSVP Line: (205) 663-8923 info@shelbychamber.org www.shelbychamber.org

Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce

May Membership Luncheon to Provide Access to Shelby County Sheriff Candidates experience to the race. The primary is June 3.

The luncheon will be held from 11:00AM until 1:00PM on May 21 at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena, 500 Amphitheater Road, Pelham.

Investment is $20 members, $30 “Future” members.

RSVP is required by noon on Monday, May 19.

Register by calling the Chamber at 663-4542, email info@shelbychamber.org or register online at www. shelbychamber.org.

How Can I Maximize the Return on My Chamber Investment?

We encourage you to take just one hour of your day on May 8 to learn how to maximize your membership investment. Whether your firm is a new member or, a long-time Chamber member, you’ll want to make plans to

join us at the Greater Shelby Chamber office beginning at 11:30AM so you may take full advantage of your membership investment.

There is no cost to attend.

A complimentary lunch provided by our sponsor,

Sponsored by:

Rx Catering, will be available for all attendees so reservations are requested by May 5. Please register online at www.shelbychamber.org, contact the Chamber at info@ shelbychamber.org or by phone at 663-4542.

Greater Shelby Chamber to Host 2nd Annual Small Business Week The Greater Shelby Chamber will host its 2nd Annual Small Business Week June 23-27. The Chamber is excited to honor and recognize the impact Small Business has on Shelby County each and every day.

Here are five facts you may not know regarding the impact which Small Business has: 1. Employs half of all private sector employees,

2014 Sponsor:

2. Generates roughly 70% of new jobs annually, 3. Pays 44% of the U.S. private payroll, 4. Accounts for one of every 13 U.S. workers, 5. Locally 70% of our 1,000 Chamber investors are

companies which employ 15 or fewer people.

The week, sponsored by Regions Bank, will will feature a Nominee’s Reception at Ballantrae on June 23 for all the Small Business Nominees, seminars and a special Awards Luncheon honoring all the nominees and recipients on June 25 at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena. Take time to nominate your favorite

Shelby County business and let us know why you think they should be selected.

Applications can be found on the Chamber’s website www. shelbychamber.org.

If you have any questions or need more information on Small Business Week and/ or Nominations, please contact Brooke Story, brooke@ shelbychamber.org or call the Chamber office 205-6634542.

Shelbychamber.org

Newsletter

The Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Work Group will be hosting the May Membership Luncheon featuring the Shelby County Sheriff candidates.

Sheriff Chris Curry is retiring and will not seek reelection.

Four candidates will vie for this office. Those candidates are Kip Cole, Larry McDow, Rick Needham and John Samaniego.

Each candidate brings a variety of backgrounds and

GSCC Events

Find more details of what you can expect about any event listed by visiting the Greater Shelby County Chamber’s website at: www.shelbychamber.org. Register for events online at www.shelbychamber.org, call the RSVP Line 663-8923, or the Chamber office 663-4542. CANCELLATION POLICY REMINDER: If a reservation is made for a paying event and you are unable to attend, you will be charged for the event unless a cancellation request is made at least TWO business days prior to the event.

May 2014

6 7 7 8 8 9 13 15

State House District 73 Candidates’ Forum 5:30PM - 7:00PM Pelham Civic Complex, 500 Amphitheater Rd., Pelham Ambassadors Work Group 11:30AM - 1:00PM Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham Small Business Work Group 4:00PM - 5:00PM Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham Membership Reception 11:30AM - 1:00PM Sponsored by: RX Catering Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham RSVP required by May 5 as lunch will be served.

No cost.

U.S. Congressional District 6 Candidates’ Forum 5:30PM - 7:30PM Cahaba Grand Conference Center, 3660 Grandview Pkwy, Birmingham Health Services Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham Existing Business & Industry Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc., 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite 500, Birmingham Healthcare Reform Workshop 7:30AM - 9:00AM Sponsored by: Fisher Investments St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, 7191 Cahaba Valley Rd. Birmingham RSVP required by May 13. Includes continental breakfast.

Investment: $5 members, $15 future members.

Shelbychamber.org

20 20 21 21 22 22

Education Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Shelby County Instructional Services Center, 601 First Street South, Alabaster State Senate District 11 Candidates’ Forum 5:30PM - 7:30PM Shelby County High School, 101 Washington St, Columbiana Board of Directors’ Meeting 8:15AM - 9:30AM Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Dr., Pelham Membership Program - Shelby County Sheriff Candidates’ Forum Doors open at 11:00AM. Program 11:30AM - 1:00PM. Hosted by: Governmental Affairs Work Group Pelham Civic Complex, 500 Amphitheater Rd., Pelham RSVP required by noon, Monday, May 19.

Investment: Members $20, Future-members $30.

Governmental Affairs Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM Sain Associates, Two Perimeter Park South, Ste 500 East, Birmingham State House District 43 Candidates’ Forum 5:30-7:30PM @ New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church 5521 Double Oak Lane, Birmingham

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

SHELBY SPOTTED

2

1

Dream Mecca Artists opening reception

The Shelby County Arts Council held an exhibit opening for the Dream Mecca Artist Group March 13 at its gallery in Columbiana.

3

4

1. Matt Wiley, Bruce Andrews and Daniel Day 2. William J. Faulk, Cescilia Llorente Fowler and Jay Strong 3. Judy Quick, Edna Sealy, Susan Barringer and Ann Handley 4. Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley and Amanda Annonio

May 2014 | 61

SHELBY SPOTTED

1

2

3

Wild About Chocolate

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6

The eighth annual Wild About Chocolate benefiting the Alabama Wildlife Center was Feb. 15 at the Harbert Center in downtown Birmingham.

1. David Stubbs, Nancy Parter, Kelly Breland with Ireland the Red-tailed Hawk, Kellie Esposito and Richard Esposito 2. Laura and Lt. Col. Sammy Howell 3. Jeff and Tammy Harris 4. Austin and Randi Chapman 5. Keith Feinman, Tine Hoffmeister and Legacy the American Kestral 6. Wylie Williams and Tammy Williams with Kelly Breland and Ireland the Red-tailed Hawk 7. Kristin and Jonathan Landham 8. Lisa and Brent Warren with Arthur the Merlin 62 | ShelbyLiving.com

7

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9

10 11

9. Joseph John III and Barbara Shepherd with Ireland the Redtailed Hawk 10. Auctioneer Van Pearson, emcee Kaitlin McCulley and AWC executive director Doug Adair 11. Clay and Patti Birchfield 12. Mary Stockard and Matthew Stockard

12 May 2014 | 63

SHELBY SPOTTED

1

2

3

Wild About Chocolate

4

5

6

The eighth annual Wild About Chocolate benefiting the Alabama Wildlife Center was Feb. 15 at the Harbert Center in downtown Birmingham.

1. Kelly Breland with Ireland the Red-tailed Hawk with Al and Noelle Formentano 2. Melinda Fagin and Nat Lovoy 3. Lisa and Brent Warren with Cleo Kathryn and Randy Gorman 4. Craig and BJ McConnell, Kathy and Art Rogers and Susan and Bill Failor 5. Kelly Breland and Ireland the Redtailed Hawk with Carol and Larry Myers 6. Travis and Brittany Ramey 7. Cory Bowen and Betsy Rogers

64 | ShelbyLiving.com

7

Coosa Valley Academy Champions in Academics & Athletics

8

• AISA Blue Ribbon School • Advanced Honors Academic Program • Dual Enrollment to Troy University • College Scholarship Counseling • Class of 2013 earned more than $600,000 in scholarships • 14 Athletic State Championships • AISA Award Winning Art Program • Athletics: Varsity & JV-Baseball, Football, Softball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Dance Team, Pep Squad, Volleyball, Tennis, Fishing • Drug Free Environment-testing required

Applications accepted year round Now Enrolling for the Fall 2014 Semester

9

Harpersville • 205.672.7326 www.coosavalleyacademy.org

10

8. Ashleigh Timmerman, Jerri Jordan, Hugh Mallette and Kit Law 9. Kelly Breland with Ireland the Red-tailed Hawk and Larry and Beck King 10. Richard and Deborah Thompson 11. Erin Limerick and Ireland the Red-tailed Hawk with Nina Adair and Alabama Wildlife Center Executive Director Doug Adair

11

May 2014 | 65

SHELBY SPOTTED

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3

Fairy Tale Ball

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6

Roy Downs Library hosted the Calera Fairy Tale Ball on Sat. March 1. The preschool ball ran 10 a.m.-noon followed by Princess Tea at 1 p.m. and the children’s ball from 6-8 p.m.

1. Chris Gaines, Wes Mobley and Steven Julaka 2. Mia Kate and Ella Shirley with Weslie Johnstone 3. Derreck and Kayla Butler 4. Alanna Angrisano, Karrie Parker, Kaitlin Pardue, Cailin Moore and Alijah Davis 5. Jamie and Becca Wallis with Sara Dickens 6. Tiffany, Olivia and Baye Thomas 7. Emily Hill and Jordan Mooney 8. Eleanna and Arielle Burke

66 | ShelbyLiving.com

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8

9

10 11

9. Jill and Keona Price 10. Jenni and Madelyn Parrish 11. Alyssa, Mollie and Ashton Brown 12. Ellie Fike and Caterina Botto 13. Stefanie and Paislie Staggs with Brandi and Brynlee Hicks

12 13

May 2014 | 67

SHELBY SPOTTED

1

Greystone Country Club’s President’s Diner

2

3

Greystone Country Club’s President’s Dinner honoring Steve Vanderburg was held Jan. 11 at the Founders Club.

1. Kim Paduch, Frank Paduch, Julie Kim and Robert Kim 2. Bob McAtee, Jackie McAtee, Sue Nuby and Maurice Nuby 3. 2013 Club President Steve Vanderburg, Lane Milam, Ginger Milam, Lisa Clifton and Jeff Clifton 4. George Ann Parker, Pam Miller and Brenda Sheehan 5. Joe and Jan Verciglio

68 | ShelbyLiving.com

4

5

SHELBY SPOTTED

1

Spain Park High School Beauty Walk

2

Spain Park High School’s Beauty Walk was held Saturday, Feb. 1.

3

4

1. Senior winners: Bailey Pereira, Anna Shepherd, Hannah Floyd (winner), Carlie Nall, Rebekah Richardson.

2. Junior winners: Caroline Wells, Victoria Phillips, AnaCeclia Rush (winner), Grayson Parker,.

3. Sophomore winners: Chase Burton, and Caitlin Lott (winner).

4. Freshman winners: Lauren Lovell, Julia Sbrissa, Brennen Cooke (winner), Taylor Ann Brent and Elise Lapinski.

May 2014 | 69

SHELBY SPOTTED

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1

3 3

A Day Out with Thomas

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7

Thomas the Train visited the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum on Saturday, March 29.

1. Ashely, Matt and Will Casianoy 2. Dale, Mekeishia and Kilan McGhee 3. Davietta McDowell and Trenton Calvin 4. Jeff, Kristina and Aiden Brown 5. Hannah Dudley and Josh Hench 6. Debra, Weston, Alex and Everett McCoy 7. Ava and Jeremy Jenkins 8. Valerie, Christopher and Chris Daley 9. Jeane, Henry, Andrea and Jack Sledge

70 | ShelbyLiving.com

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10 11

12

10. Alan, Debbie, Alex and Sarah Cork 11. Chase and Kristi Adkinson with Kaci Sanders 12. Matthew Marquardt 13. Paul, Amy, Emily and Austin Champion

13

Calera

May 2014 | 71

SHELBY SPOTTED

2

1

3

The Walk to End Lupus

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5

6

The Walk to End Lupus Now was held March 29 at Veterans Park.

1. Martesia Davis, Nicole Brown and Khristin Craig 2. Becca Langford and Brittany and Judy Sellers 3. Donna Kraselsky and Rachel Labovitz 4. The Biddle Bunch 5. Cassandra Allen, Gloria Denson and Destiny Hill 6. Andrew, Ethan, Tucker, Tanner and Tate 7. Ryan Countess and Shirley Wilson 8. Nicholas Carney and SirArther Edwards

72 | ShelbyLiving.com

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Welcome to the good life. Welcome to Shelby Living!

Sydnii Todd

and the spring’s The Little hottes

tTh fashio ens d beek Sheepe amRe rorck

Hilltop Montessori students Mt Laurel’s new take learning outdoors Irish

Shelbyliving.com

Smash To Marke t ing

Interviews

Farmers markets kick off across the county

Subscribe today

April 2012 • $4.95

March 2012 • $4.95

Scott Squared

May 2012

12

SSHHEELLLLiviBivBngYinYg SHELLivBY ing

SHELBY Living

9. Kena Williams, Shamire Crummie and Jessica Alexander 10. Johnathan Crayton, Roderick Miles and D’Heriman Faulkner 11. Celine and Mark McCoy 12. Tansha Banks, Terrica Harris and Ladaisha Robinson

May 2012 • $4.95

11

pub

UM

Chef College Nig To ht

p

J. Dar by ré Amo Farm

the oldest homecom ing tradition in the country

irmingham ake ook o. brings cookin g to the classro om

That’s

Montevallo’s organic paradise

Table treats your dog can eat

to receive a copy in your mailbox monthly!

SHELBY Living • • • •

Arts & Culture Local Fashions Unique Home Features Calendar of events

1 $2o0n.e4year, for sues 12 is

To subscribe visit ShelbyLiving.com or call 669-3131

May 2014 | 73

SHELBY SPOTTED

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1

3

Belk Kidfest

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Belk Kidfest was held at the Alabaster Colonial Promenade Belk on Saturday, March 29 at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

1. Sophee, Brylee and Ashelee Myrick with Emmaline, Anna, Lauren and Charlotte Raciborski 2. Tony Miller and Annie Gonzalez 3. Brittany Epperson and Jadah Bearden 4. Chad, Chaselynn and Mindalyn Adams 5. Chloe Mims and Madison Wood 6. Brittany and Aiyana Urresta 7. Bryan and Sophee Myrick 8. Aspen Godette and Sarah Kathryn Morrow

74 | ShelbyLiving.com

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9. Kayla Allen and Brittany Edwards 10. Jason Humphries, Glen Austin and Jamada Green 11. Jamichael Vines and Makiyah Harris 12. Shawn Feely and Parker Hogan

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May 2014 | 75

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Calera-Shelby Train Ride

4

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum hosted a CaleraShelby train ride on Saturday, March 22 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

1. Sam, Will and Joseph Hosenton 2. Ed, Jack and Linda Benson 3. Don Reed and Ralph Honeycutt 4. Lora and Matthew Burton

3

205-824-4449

3301 Lorna Road | Birmingham geico.com/birmingham

76 | ShelbyLiving.com

2

SHELBY SPOTTED

Helena Ball Park Opening

2

1

The Helena Belles attended the opening of the Helena Ball Park Opening Ceremonies in March.

3

4

1. Laura Ashley Vines, Caitlin Cook, Klaire Thomason and Kennedie Lynn 2. Sarah Anderson 3. Anna Catherine Wilson and Gracie George 4. Barkley Elizabeth Bullard, Amy Bolt, Maddie Crain and Sydney Parks

May 2014 | 77

CLASSIFIEDS

SHELBY Living • Repairs • Shingles • Metal • Flat • Reroof • Mobile Homes WE FIX LEAKS! Free Estimates! 256626-0055 Serving Shelby & Chilton ACCEPTANCE LOANS $300 - $20,000 Home, Auto, Consumer, Refinance, Vacations.

205-663-5821 Drivers: Don’t get hypnotized by the highway, come to a place where there’s a higher standard!

Up to $2K sign on, Avg $65K/yr +bonuses! CDL-A, 1 yr exp. A&R Transport 888-202-0004 $2,500 SIGN - ON LOCAL CDL-A DRIVERS Florida Rock & Tank Lines, Inc. Is hiring DRIVERS to haul locally for our Birmingham and Montgomery terminals!

Great Benefits Include: * Home Daily *Health/Dental/Vision * 401K w/co match *Safety Bonuses * Paid Training Applicants Must Have: * Class A CDL * Ability to obtain Hazmat & Tanker endorsements * 2 Yrs T/T exp. Or 1 Yr T/T w/ CDL School Cert. * 25 Yrs or Older Apply Online at www.floridarockand tanklines.com or call 1-866-FLA ROCK Need a home security system?

Want $10K in merchant discount certificates too? Call Advanced Video & Security now! 205-6550055 If you can sell home security systems and you’re not earning $300 to $500 per sale, call now 205-655-0055 Advantage Electric is Growing Again! We need one Journeyman and one Helper. Must have3 yrs experience. Call 205-876-4269.

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

205-672-2022 (formerly Dixieland)

78 | ShelbyLiving.com

Field Service Technician with Alabaster Water Board. Exp. Pref.

HS Diploma or GED req’d. Apply at alabasterwater.com or in person at Alabama Career Center, 109 Plaza Cir, Alabaster.

Always There, In-Home Care Seeks CAREGIVERS In Shelby County - Pelham, Alabaster & Montevallo areas. Flexible schedules, Benefits & training available. Call for more information.

(205)824-0224 Clinic Openings American Family Care has full time openings. Apply now at www. americanfamilycare.com. AFC is a smoke free, drug free, EOE. American Proteins, Inc. Hiring Drivers Home Daily, Great benefits package (including: health/dental/ vision insurance), paid vacation and holidays, quarterly safety bonus, 401K retirement plan. Need Class A CDL with tanker endorsement, one year verifiable driving experience. Contact Jamie Sewell at256-352-9821 Ext 133 or Ronnie Demonia Ext 109EOE BAMA Concrete Finishing Driveways, Patios, Floors, Driveway Repair, Sidewalks, Concrete Walls, and Stamping. Call Jeremy. Free Est. 205-901-4112 Beelman Truck Co. Hiring!

EXPERIENCED TERMINAL MANAGER For Calera, AL Terminal.

Sales & Operations Exp.Req Excellent Pay/Benefits Call: 618-646-5384 Toyota, Lexus, Scion.

Complete Service.

Now servicing most Japanese models.

Towing. Detailing.

205-668-0105 billystoyotaparts.com CDL Skills And Test Training, LLC Day & Evening Classes Hoover Pelham Area 205-253-5960 QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTOR Central Alabama Fab in Columbiana. Plate & structural steel exp. a MUST. C.W.I. pref. Call 205669-6120 ext. 23

Classifieds To place an ad in Shelby Living, call 205.669.3131

Exp. HVAC Installers Needed.

Minimum of 5 years experience.

Must have personal tools. EPA certification preferable.$15 - $25 p/h based on experience. Please call 205-755-2209 or apply at 816 7th Street N, Clanton.

Part-time Nurse, 2-3 Days per Week Chilton County Treatment Center 205-755-4300 LPN Charge Nurse 7PM-7AM. (3) 12 hr shifts/wk. Must be in good standing with the AL Board of Nursing. Contact Lisa Roberson at (205)669-1712. Apply in person: 22969 Hwy 25 Columbiana, AL. Or email resume to shannon.bell@ northporthealth.com Columbiana Villas 22055 Hwy 25 Apt A-2 Columbiana, AL 35051.

Units now available. Rental office (205) 669-6505 TDD/TTY 800548-2546 Curtis White Companies We are a full-service building company that can help you with all phases of new home construction or remodeling.

No Down Payment On Your Lot. Call for a FREE Brochure. (205) 699-2283 www.curtiswhitecompanies.com Room Additions/Add ons, Remodeling & Repair, Kitchen/ Baths, Basements & Decks.

Concrete Work. For Quality work and a Free Estimate Call David 205369-8204 TARGET AUCTION. Advanced Real Estate Marketing.

800-476-3939 www.targetauction. com FREE ESTIMATES • Yard Work • Grass Cutting • Landscaping • Tree Removal DOUG PRUETT 205-369-7613 Brand New Queen Pillow Top Mattress and Box still in plastic, never used, factory warranty, will sacrifice, will go fast $225 205-200-4523 COMMERCIAL DRIVERS Dunn Construction has immediate openings for experienced Drivers for our Calera/Alabaster area. Class

B CDL & HAZMAT Endorsement required. Excellent benefits. Include BC/BS insurance/vacation/holidays, & 401K. Please call 205-592-3866 extension 259 to inquire. EOE A/A Lead Fitter/Welder. Must be certified. Needs own hand tools and be able to read blueprints.

Download application at dunnbuildingcompany.com.

No Phone Calls!!

Commercial / Industrial HVAC Is Looking To Fill the Following Positions in the Montgomery Area: Senior Level HVACTechnician Qualified candidates must have a min of 10 yrs exp. in service & repair. Air Cooled Chiller experience a strong plus.

ECS offers an outstanding salary & benefits pkg to include, company paid profit sharing,401K,medical,&dental insurance. Email Resume: chrisfrench@engineeredcooling.com www.engineeredcooling.com Commercial/Industrial HVAC Centrifugal Service Tech in the Montgomery, AL Area: Qualifications: 5 yrs exp in svc/rpr of Centrifugal and Screw Chiller sys. ECS offers outstanding salary & benifits pkg, 401K, medical & dental ins.

Email Resume: chrisfrench@engineeredcooling.com Evergreen Transport, LLC has immediate openings for both Tractor AND Trailer Mechanics at its terminal in Calera, Alabama.

Positions open for day shift and night shift. Job duties include repairing, maintaining and overhauling of heavy duty fleet truck/trailers. If interested, please contact Shane Jones @ 205-6683316 or apply in person @ 8278 Hwy 25 South in Calera, AL. Safe Havens Project Manager - Coordinate screening, intake, orientation and scheduling clients for supervised visitation and safe exchange program. Fax resume: (205)510-2626 or email hrm1@ gway.org. EOE. www.gway.org for more information.

Community development manager designs, manages and implements Girl Scout programs

in Chilton and Shelby counties.

Establishes community partners, volunteers/girls & support. Resumes by 3/14: HR@girlscoutsnca.org.

One Stop Shop for home additions and remodeling, retaining walls, concrete work, and masonry.

Gemmill Contracting 965-6300 ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnlineAuctions.com 205-326-0833 Granger, Thagard & Assoc.

Jack F. Granger #873 Stylists Wanted Busy Salons in Chelsea and Calera 205-966-7254 ALABASTER AREA Longmeadow MH park Quiet, Peaceful, Large Rental Lots For Your Home 205-663-0572 DRIVERS Hanna Truck Lines is hiring OTR Drivers for our Northport & Fairfield AL Terminals. Minimum weekly pay & benefits. Willing to Train. Prefer Flatbed Exp. Veterans Welcome Contact Dwayne 800-634-7315 E.O.E. The HomeCare Connection Leading homecare provider that lets seniors do their favorite activities in the comfort of their own homes. Services include: housekeeping, meal prep, companionship, transportation, massages, computer training, med reminders, online billing, Wii console, hairstyling, plus much more! 453-4285 hcneeds.comm J & W Professional Painting Interior and Exterior 205-788-2907 Local Construction Co. 2-5 yrs exp in construction. Must have a well rounded skill set, reliable transportation for hauling materials and own tools. Drug test req.

Shelby Co. Call 205-337-6139 KINGWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL NEEDS SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS & BUS DRIVERS! Email rgray@ kingwoodchristianschool.com

Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com FT Drivers Needed. Must be willing to work days, nights or weekends. Wages begin at $10/hr. www.MacsDelivers.com 866-2171928 or email amy@macsdelivers.com MACS Courier Service Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-389-4530. For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657 Morrison Healthcare Food Svc Currently Taking application for all positions, all shifts available, contact Tabitha Tennant: tabithatennant@ iammorrison.com or put in application at 1000 1st St. N, Alabaster, 35007 MORRISON PLUMBING Master Plumber & Repair Specialists Clear sewer lines. Install water & gas lines, water heaters. Service ALL of Shelby County since 1972!

205-678-8084 Landscaping & Maintenance Commercial or Residential * Landscape Installation * Mulch/ Pine Straw * Leaf Removal * Flower Beds * Hedge Trimming MTZ Landscaping 205-914-4196 Join a Great Team! Experienced Paint Store Salesman for Shelby County. Great pay and benefits, insurance, dental, profit sharing. Call 800-446-7124.

Montevallo Golf Club • Public Par 71 18-hole • Memberships available • Twilight and Senior Rate • Full length Driving Range Bring in ad for 50% off Green fees M-F (any) or Sa-Su after 12.

665-8057 MATTRESS SETS 100% New w/Warranty.

Furniture, too! We Deliver and Finance!

TWIN Sets From $99 FULL Sets From $129 QUEEN Sets From $149 KING Sets From $295 (205)912-7177 MyUltimateMattress.com Production Team Members in Vance, AL HS Diploma or GED, 2 yr Manufacturing exp. Must be 18+, pass background check, 2 yr AL resident, $14.50 per hour. http://naonsite.com/Job/

Manufacturing/Assembly positions available in Calera area. Full time hours, all shifts available. Call today 205-267-3910 OXFORD HEALTHCARE LPN’s, RN’s & CNA’s Full Time/Part Time Please apply @helpathome. com205-608-1612 PAINT ANY SIZE ROOM! Only $50! Walls only, one coat. Drywall repairs. Water damage, Electrical.

205-702-2733 Exterior Painting and Drywall.

Make your house look new again.

Over 20 years experience, quality and craftsmanship. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Call 205.966.6230 Dependable, compassionate people needed to provide care for individuals with intellectual disabilities in a residential setting.

Candidate will be responsible for providing support with all activities of daily living and daily documentation regarding the care of the individuals served.

Part-time, full-time and weekend positions available in the Alabaster area. Must possess high school diploma/GED and valid drivers license. Must be 21 years of age, pass background check and drug screening. Apply in person at 2352 Centerpoint Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35215. Contact Moenique Phillips at 205-854-7272.

Right at Home Homecare services available in your area. Please call 205-4601062 Immediate Job Openings for Caregiver/CNAs in Shelby County.

Apply at www.rahbhm.com.

MECHANIC NEEDED: Afternoon Shift SOUTHERN HAULERS, LLC, 2157 Hwy 16 Calera, Alabama 35040 Tractor, Trailer & Welding Repairs. Must have own tools. A clear drivers license is needed. CDL a plus. 401k, Health, Dental, Rx options. For information,call Carson or Tim @ ( 800 ) 537-4621 x 715, e-mail to: cvick@southernhaulersllc.com or tjohnsonjr@southernhaulersllc.com School Bus Drivers For CDL and non CDL drivers. Clean Drug & Criminal background. Only Serious Inq, For immediate employment, apply: School Transportation Solutions: 1301 F L Shuttlesworth Dr. 205-324-4024 CNC MACHINIST Exp. CNC programmer operator.

40+ hrs, 2nd shift, 4 day work week, good benefits, competitive salary. Send resume: lindas@ sepcousa.com or fax to: 205-403-7599

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 Fire & Water Techs Needed For Restoration Company. Must pass background check and drug test, have reliable transportation and good driving record. F/T & P/T position available, willing to train.

Serious Inquiries. Call 424-4211 btw 9-11.

Shear Grace Salon Christian Salon with upscale flare, located in Alabaster, looking for a stylist.

Commissioned or booth rental.

Please call (205)664-9888 Immediate Openings For Full Time Positions ** Comprehensive ** ** Benefits Package ** Machine Operators Must have 2 plus years of experience as a manufacturing Machine Operator. Machine set-up experience is a major plus! Pay DOE. Industrial Maintenance Minimum of 2 yrs. exp.

Must be able to weld.

Apply in person: Smith Companies 100 Pardue Road Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-4455 Order Selectors Food Dist.

Center in Pelham Al. Day Shift: Mon-Fri.40+ hours/ week. 10:00AM until finished (varies). $10.50-$14.00/ hour.

Benefits: medical, vision, dental, vacation & 401k. Requirements: • Reading & math skills • Lift 60 lbs. repetitively. • Work in +90 Temperature • Work in -10 Temperature • Walking majority of day. Apply 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM. Southeastern Food Pelham, Alabama 35124 201 Parker Drive 205-685-4551 Roofs, Gutters, Chimney. Repair & Remodel, Baths & Kitchen our Specialty! Free Estimates!

Southern Home Remodeling 205624-3144 Class A CDL Drivers Only!

Pelham Distributor hiring Class A CDL drivers. Return home each day. Must pass DOT physical, drug screen and road test. Have good customer service skills.

Compensation/Benefits: • $5570,000 annually. • Premium pay for holidays. • Paid Vacation.

• Medical/dental insurance. • Company funded life insurance. • Short-term/long-term disability. • Company matching 401(k). Please apply in person at: Southeastern

Food Merchandisers, 201 Parker Drive, Pelham, AL 35124 1-800-749-9806 Ext 4549

valid AL drivers license required.

For info call 205-991-9010 between 9am and 1pm.

WE WANT TO HIRE YOU TO RETIRE YOU Work for a strong stable company.

Southern Haulers LLC in Calera.

Hiring CDL-A Drivers for new accounts. Must have clean CDL-A. Exc pay / benefits. George or James 800.537.4621 EOE southernhaulersllc.com

Stable Hand Position P/T, No. Shelby Cty. To apply, call 205-9919720 or 205-531-1355

PLUMBERS NEEDED Call 6822828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com

Trailer, Tire & Diesel Mechanics and Welder Needed Must have experience. If you meet qualifications please call or email resume 205-250-0553 christyb@tiretechinc.net

Electricians Needed Birmingham & Tuscaloosa Call 682-2828, fax resume to 682-2827 or email to resume@sps9.com IMMEDIATE POSITIONS!!!!!

Need 5 motivated workers to replace 5 lazy ones! Loaders, asst mgr, customer service positions, sales rep. Need valid DL. No experience neccesary. Long hours but very competitive pay. Call Drew (205)490-1003 or (404)723-1322 S & B CLEANING Experienced in Residential & Comm. Cleaning.

205-603-1553 Reasonable w Ref. INSURED & BONDED CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Stokes Automotive. 2nd Chance Financing. Good, bad or ugly. We clobber big city prices & interest rates! 205.755.7581 Steel Building. Allocated Bargains. 40x60 on up. We do deals. gosteelbuildings.com Source# 18X 251-241-4250 HELP WANTED - 2 JOBS AVAILABLE • Industrial Tire Technician • Experience a plus •• Forklift technician •• Experience Necessary CALL 205-672-7474 Technicians Needed! Friendly, fun, presentable. Avg starting wage $28-32K. Will Train.

Outdoor Work. Drug, alchohol, and tobacco free workplace. www. thegreendoctor.net 205-678-9798 The View Apartments Alabaster 1, 2, & 3 BRs Good Credit Required 205-663-6650 Gated Community accepting applications for security officer.

Concealed weapon permit and

Tidy Spaces $160 for 2 people for 4 hrs organizing any home/ office space. Supplies additional cost. 908-0267 or 243-0677 designfortidyspaces@gmail.com

USA Tax Service 100% Accuracy New Cust. Discounts E-File and Direct Deposit Hablamos Espanol 217 1st St. N Ste. C Alabaster, AL 35007 205-663-1040 GUN & KNIFE EXPO Events in Central and North Alabama.

Check www.vpigunshows.com/ Valley Productions for shows near you!

256-335-8474 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 LandHomesExpress.com Become a Dental Asst. in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205) 561-8118 and get your career started!

TANK DRIVERS NEEDED NOW! Min. age 23 and a good MVR required. Most Nights at home.

We will train for tank if you have 2 yrs. verifiable Tractor/Trailer Exp. Delivery & Return type carrier. SE States. Dump Trailer Drivers Must have verifiable dump trailer exp.

Excellent benefits including Blue Cross & furnished uniforms with a boot allowance. Contact Carl or Valerie 800-749-5552 or 205322-5552 or apply online at www. walpoleinc.com We help families to care for their SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD (24 HRS A DAY) Call Joyce 205-7451794. Thanks! CPR. FIRST AID. CNA CERTIFIED Painters Needed! Must have min 3 yrs experience with new residential painting, dependable transportation, clean appearance, and good work ethic. Must be Drug & Alcohol free. References Req’d. Call 621-2627.

May 2014 | 79

OUT & ABOUT Steam Days

May 2

Regions Tradition

your scheduled departure time.

Author visit: Author Carolyn Offer available several times Haines of the much loved throughout the day, May 2-4 Sarah Booth mystery series will and May 9-11. Visit Hodrrm.org discuss her series, including her for rules and more information. newest book, “Booty Bones,” set for release in mid-May. This May 3 free event will be presented by Shelby Iron Works Pancake All-you-can-eat the Shelby County Arts Council Breakfast: pancakes at the Shelby Iron on May 2 at the Shelby County Park is May 3 from 7 a.m.Arts Council Gallery as part 10 a.m.

Cost is $5 and drinks of the Eat.Drink.Read. series. included.

Our Iron Works Visit Shelbycountyartscouncil.

Museum and Country Store com for more information. will also be open, along with Eric Clapton concert: Eric our local blacksmiths crafting Clapton will take the stage new pieces. Directions at at Pelham’s Oak Mountain Shelbyironworks.com.

Amphitheatre on May 2 at 7:30 p.m. Over the course of his more than 50 year career, guitar legend Clapton has covered an immense amount of ground.

Opening act includes ZZ Ward.

Visit Livenation.com for tickets and for more information.

May 2-4 and May 9-11 At The Throttle: A once-in-alifetime opportunity to operate a genuine coal-burning steam locomotive - Flagg Coal #75!

During your 30-minute session you will be accompanied by a certified engineer and a brakeman as you operate #75 down the track. You may need to take on water or coal. Plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to 80 | ShelbyLiving.com

Guest Speaker Vitaly Charny presents “Butterflies: Nature’s Bejeweled Winged Wonders” on May 4 at 1 p.m. at the Alabama Wildlife Center. A wide variety of colorful butterflies can be found in Alabama. Come learn more about these and other butterflies found in Oak Mountain State Park. A butterfly walk will follow the program. Visit AWRC.org for more information.

BBQ Blitz Cook-Off

May 12

Golf Tournament: The Calera Chamber of Commerce is hosting their 12th annual golf tournament May 12 at Timberline Golf Club. The event is the chamber’s primary fundraiser, and funds go to running the chamber as well as funding the chamber’s philanthropic endeavors. Event begins with lunch at noon.

A silent auction will be open throughout the day, while May 9 teams golf and participate in Jason Aldean concert: Country a putting contest. Dinner and superstar Jason Aldean will awards ceremony will follow, perform May 9 and May 10 at with food provided by Bill Davis 7:30 p.m. each night at the Oak of Ribs to Go in Calera.

Steam Days: The Golden Age Mountain Amphitheater as part of Steam: Relive the golden of his 2014 Burn It Down Tour. May 14-18 age of steam railroading when Opening acts include Tyler Farr Regions Tradition: The the Heart of Dixie Railroad and Florida Georgia Line. Visit Regions Tradition will return to Museum hosts Steam Days. Livenation.com for tickets and Shoal Creek Golf and Country Train lovers will enjoy seeing for more information.

Club May 14-18 and is one of the beautifully restored five major championships on 1930s-era coal-burning Flagg May 9 and 10 the 2014 Champions Tour.

Coal #75 saddletank steam Buck Creek Festival: The 12th locomotive. And all riders will annual Buck Creek Festival May 15 love the unique experience of will be held Friday-Saturday, SCAC Student and Instructor hearing that engine chug down May 9-10 at the Helena Gallery Exhibit: The Annual the track as they enjoy a six mile Amphitheater Park. The Buck SCAC Student and Instructor excursion through the forests of Creek Festival is a free, family- Gallery Exhibit has become one Shelby County. Tickets available friendly community event that of the favorite gallery exhibits of for 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., May 3-4 has raised more than $170,000 the year and is an opportunity and May 10-11. Visit Hodrrm. for the city of Helena since to showcase the watercolor, it began. The event includes oil and acrylic paintings, org for more information. live music, crafts, children’s photography and pottery of the May 4 activities and food. Visit talented men and women who Audubon Teaches Nature: Buckcreekfestival.com. take classes from and teach

for the Shelby County Arts Council. The gallery opening and artist reception is May 15 from 6-8 p.m. at the Shelby County Arts Council. Most work available for purchase.

All are invited to attend. Free reception and exhibit! Info: 669-0044.

May 17

XTERRA Southeast Championship Race: The full-distance XTERRA championship race is comprised of a 1.5 kilometer swim, 30 kilometer mountain bike and a 10 kilometer trail run. Entry fees are $95 for individual, $75 for student/military/tri club individual, $140 for team and $110 for student/military team.

There is also a shorter distance XTERRA Sprint race for those looking to experience XTERRA for the first time or have the same XTERRA fun on a less demanding course. Visit Active. com for more information.

BBQ Blitz Cook-Off: The BBQ Blitz Cook-off is a fundraising event on May 17 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. benefitting the Calera Middle School football program. Funds raised will go toward improving CMS facilities and purchasing new equipment. The event will host a barbecue competition, silent auction, live music, kids area and vendors. The day caps off with the spring football scrimmage game at 6 p.m. Visit Bbqblitzcook-off.com for info or to learn how to compete, donate to the silent auction or become a sponsor or vendor.

May 17, 24 and 31

Calera & Shelby Train Ride: Enjoy a one hour train ride through the forests of Shelby County. The golden age of railroads and the rich heritage of the people who built and operated them come together at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, the official railroad museum for the state of

Alabama. Tickets available for 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m., May 17, 24 and 31. Visit Hodrrm.org for more information.

May 20

Shelby County Senior Picnic: Save the date for the Shelby County Senior Picnic to be held May 20 at Oak Mountain State Park.

May 23

Dave Matthews Band concert: Dave Matthews Band will return on May 23 at 7 p.m. to the Oak Mountain Amphitheater. Visit Livenation.com for tickets and for more information.

May 27

Journey and Steve Miller Band concert: Journey and Steve Miller Band will perform May 27 at 6:45 p.m. at the Oak Mountain Amphitheater.

Opening act includes Tower of Power. Visit Livenation. com for tickets and for more information.

May 30-31

Shelby Show & Go Classic Car Show: The Shelby County Show & Go antique and classic car event to be held May 3031 in Columbiana, Alabaster and Hoover will benefitting SafeHouse of Shelby County and its domestic and sexual violence response and prevention programs. Show & Go will display classic cars for all to enjoy at venues throughout Shelby County.

Check out the Shelby Show & Go Classic Car Show on Facebook page for more information.

May 31-Jan. 1

Bump N Grind Mountain Bike Race Weekend: Oak Mountain State Park will host this long running mountain bike competition with racers coming from across the country to compete on the premier off roads trails at the park.

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

HOME OF THE 30 MINUTE OIL CHANGE PLEDGE Expires June 15, 2014

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Must spend over $50. Choose any service available in our dealership. This exclusive offer not valid for insurance work, warranty, over the counter sales, other offers or service specials. Must be redeemed at one visit. Has no cash surrender value.

May 2014 | 81

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