Alabaster Reporter, December 2, 2015

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A welcome Thanksgiving surprise Alabaster City Schools surprises teachers with extra compensation

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor A L A BA S T E R — C r e e k View Elementary School first-grade teacher Susie Turner couldn’t hold back the tears after several of the school’s central office staff members showed up at her classroom door on Nov. 24.

After Alabaster School Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers explained why they were there, several of Turner’s fellow teachers joined in emotional embraces.

“On behalf of the Alabaster City School System, I would like to present you with this extraordinary compensation,” Vickers told the teachers gathered in the CVES first-grade hallway. “We appreciate everything you do for the children of Alabaster.”

The visit to Creek View marked the final stop in a long – but happy – day for Vickers, some members of the Board of Education and central office staff members. From 7:45 a.m. until about 2:30, the group made

its rounds to every school to hand-deliver “extraordinary compensation” checks to reward each school’s faculty and support staff.

The surprises came one day after the School Board allocated $312,000 to fund the extra teacher compensation, which was $500 for teachers and $250 for support staff. Nov. 24 marked the second consecutive year for the extra compensation checks, which were $400 for teachers and $200 for support staff when they were distributed last December.

For Turner, it was a welcome surprise.

“I had no idea,” Turner said, noting she planned to use the money to support her son living in New York. “I thought it was just a one-time deal last year.”

Shortly after Turner and her fellow first-grade teachers received their surprise, one of Turner’s students, Mary Margaret Strange, planned an impromptu celebration for their teacher.

See SURPRISE, Page 2A

REPORTER PHOTO/NEAL WAGNER

Alabaster School Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers, center, surprises Creek View Elementary teachers with extra compensation checks on Nov. 24.

Victim, 22, dies in Alabaster wreck

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor ALABASTER—A 22-year-old victim was airlifted to UAB Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead, after the vehicle he was driving left the road and struck a tree near the Carmeuse lime plant in Alabaster on the night of Nov. 19.

Alabaster police and firefighters responded to the wreck at 5:13 p.m. after receiving a report of a single-vehicle wreck near the intersection of U.S. 31 and Ozley Road. Alabaster Fire Chief Jim Golden said the vehicle left U.S. 31 and struck a tree off the

See VICTIM, Page 2A

REPORTER PHOTO/NEAL WAGNER

Timothy Wass, who serves in the U.S. Coast Guard, thanks his daughter, Erin, for honoring him during the Super Citizen program at Thompson Intermediate School on Nov. 20.

TIS students honor local heroes

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor A L A B A S T E R — Thompson Intermediate School fifth-graders on Nov. 20 honored local heroes ranging from military personnel and law enforcement officers to one of their own classmates who overcame a battle with cancer.

As part of the Liberty Learning Foundation’s Super Citizen program, each TIS fifth-grade class formed a “Torch Team” and spent the past several weeks identifying individuals to honor as local heroes.

Each person recognized as a “Super Citizen” received small Statue of Liberty statues containing metal from the actual statue.

“Through this program, you have learned what it means to be outstanding, responsible citizens. With everything going on in the world today, that is more important than ever,” TIS Principal Brent Byars said.

“No matter what job title you will have later in life, you hold a more important title, and that is the title of citizen.”

The TIS students honored the following individuals during the ceremony:  Timothy Wass, who serves in the U.S. Coast Guard.  Neely Woodley, the principal of Thompson Middle School.  Justin Fincher, a technology employee at Children’s

See TIS, Page 2A

Alabaster housing market triples from 2010

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor ALABASTER—Alabaster will finish 2015 with its highest number – by far – of new homes since the national economic downturn hit several years ago, according to reports recently released by the city’s Department of Building Safety.

During a Nov. 23 City Council meeting, Ward 7 Councilman Tommy Ryals delivered positive news for the city’s housing market while giving the year-to-date report from the Building Safety Department.

In October, the department issued three new home building permits for

homes valued at a total of $889,307.96, bringing the year-to-date total to 85 new home permits valued at a total of $22.3 million at the end of October.

Through the first 10 months of 2014, the Building Department had issued 62 new home building permits valued at a total of $13.9 million.

Alabaster’s housing market has seen a steady increase over the last several years, and has already topped yearend numbers from 2010-2014.

The 85 new home permits already issued this year is nearly triple the 2010 and 2011 year-end numbers of 29

CONTRIBUTED

See HOUSING, Page 2A

Alabaster has seen significant growth in its housing market over the past several years.

CONTRIBUTED

The Alabaster police and fire departments prepare to airlift a victim after a Nov. 19 wreck on U.S. 31.

Suspect in Alabaster carjacking now facing capital murder charge tionally struck her vehicle from behind.

When the woman got out A L A B A S T E R — A n to survey the damage, a sus18-year-old Birmingham pect allegedly got into her man who has been charged vehicle and drove off with it. with a Nov. 9 Alabaster After BPD detectives armed robbery is now facing investigated the incident, capital murder charges in they identified Jamarlon Birmingham, accordEdwards as one of ing to police. the suspects, and The Birmingham took him into custoPolice Department dy on Nov. 15. arrested Jamarlon The Bessemer Edwards on Nov. carjacking hap15 and originalpened one day ly charged him with before anothone felony count of er carjacking at first-degree robbery Jamarlon Alabaster’s Propst after the department Edwards Promenade shopinvestigated a Nov. ping center, in which 8 carjacking in Bessemer, Jamarlon Edwards has according to BPD Lt. Sean been named a suspect.

Edwards.

During the Alabaster carDuring the Bessemer jacking, Parsons said two incident, a woman called black males pulled up in a Birmingham police at about red 2005 Dodge Charger and 10:35 a.m. to report her 2013 began asking him about his Dodge Challenger had been See CARJACKING, Page 2A stolen after suspects inten-

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Want to see who topped the weekly health ratings?

See page 9A for public records and a list of this week’s restaurants with the best scores.

News 2A December 2, 2015

ALABASTER REPORTER

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Hospital who provides iPads for sick children.  Brent Byars, the principal of Thompson Intermediate School.  Rodger Offet, a U.S. Air Force veteran who volunteers with the Red Cross.  Christofer Rodriquez, a TIS student and cancer survivor.  Noah Galloway, a former U.S. Army sergeant and Purple Heart recipient.  John Samaniego, the Shelby County sheriff.  Eddie Lovelady, a retired Birmingham Police Department officer.  Jarred Kato, the founder of Objective Homefront in Alabaster.  Alisha Clayton, who serves in the U.S. Air Force.  Louis Powell, a World War II veteran.  Officer Jason Greene, an Alabaster police officer and

continued from page 1A

REPORTER PHOTO/NEAL WAGNER

Thompson Intermediate School students Kamryn Powell and Skyler Maddox honor World War II veteran Louis Powell during the Super Citizen program on Nov. 20.

TIS school resource officer.  Ashley Rose, a U.S. Air Force medic.  Richard Mitchell, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart.

Victim northbound side of the road near the lime plant.

After extracting the victim from the white Lincoln sedan, emergency responders transported the victim, 22-year-old Wilsonville resident and Shelby County High School graduate Gunter Benson, to UAB Hospital via LifeSaver heli-

continued from page 1A copter, where he was pronounced dead the morning of Nov. 20, according to Alabaster Police Chief Curtis Rigney.

The wreck forced the Alabaster Police Department to close U.S. 31 for about an hour while crews transported the victim.

Housing and 30, respectively.

In the commercial building sector, the department’s number of new commercial buildings remained the same from last month at nine permits valued at a total of about $13.5 million. In comparison, the city had issued

only three new commercial building permits valued at $3 million through the first 10 months of 2014.

The number of commercial addition and remodel permits is up from last year, but the value of those projects is slightly down.

Minimally Invasive surgery doesn’t just mean shorter hospital stays, faster recoveries, less pain and less worry. It means our specialists are trained in getting you back to life—faster.

Minimally Invasive Surgery at Shelby Baptist Medical Center BaptistHealthAlabama.org

Through the end of October of this year, the department had issued 70 commercial addition and remodel permits for projects valued at about $6.9 million, compared to 28 permits valued at about $8.3 million during the same period last year.

continued from page 1A away,” McKay said. “You don’t want to expect it every year, and I definitely didn’t expect it so soon.”

“Wow!” Workman added as she unsealed her check.

Vickers and School Board member Derek Henderson said they were happy to surprise the teachers for a second year.

“We are so proud of our teachers and support staff, and we want them to know how much we appreciate them,” Vickers said.

“It was so wonderful last year, and we are glad to be able to do it again,” Henderson said.

Carjacking Getting you back to more important things...

Benson’s funeral is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22 at Wilsonville Baptist Church with Rev. Richard Horton and Rev. Charles Edmondson officiating. Burial will follow in Wilsonville City Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21, at Bolton Funeral Home.

continued from page 1A

Surprise “What is that, Mrs. Turner?” Strange asked her teacher.

“It’s a special prize for Mrs. Turner,” Turner responded.

“Wow, good job,” Strange said as she hugged Turner.

A few minutes later, when Turner walked back into her room, all of her students jumped from underneath a greet Turner with a loud “Happy Thanksgiving!”

Elsewhere in the school, third-grade teachers Janet McKay and Susan Workman were also shocked.

“Last year blew us

 Cinnamon Banks, a pediatric nurse at Children’s of Alabama.  Jerry Smith, a U.S. Army veteran who served for 26 years.

REPORTER PHOTO/NEAL WAGNER

Creek View Elementary School teacher Susie Turner hugs Alabaster School Board President Adam Moseley after School Board members surprised teachers with extra checks on Nov. 24.

continued from page 1A car. Parsons said one of the males approached his car and began asking questions.

When he showed one of the men his keys, the suspect pulled a gun and stole Parsons’ vehicle, he said.

According to the APD incident report, the suspects stole Parson’s $30,000 vehicle, a $600 Glock pistol in the center console and a $700 iPhone.

Parsons’ car was totaled in a police pursuit in Ensley the following day.

On Nov. 23, the Alabaster Police Department charged Jamarlon Edwards with counts of first-degree robbery and first-degree theft of property tied to the Nov. 9 incident.

APD also charged the suspect with counts of second-degree robbery and second-degree assault tied to a previous armed robbery of an elderly victim in Alabaster.

Since then, Birmingham police brought a more serious charge against Jamarlon Edwards after the suspect allegedly played a role in the Nov. 7 shooting death of a 27-year-old man. Police brought a capital murder charge against Jamarlon Edwards on Nov. 20 while he was still being held in the Jefferson County Jail on the robbery charge.

According to Birmingham police, the shooting happened in Pratt City shortly before 4 p.m. on Nov. 7. During the incident, the victim, 27-yearold Justin Poole, was driving his Buick when he stopped in the roadway.

“A white Dodge Charger pulled up next to him and someone exited the Charger and fired several shots into the victim’s vehicle,” read a BPD press release.

“According to witnesses, the victim tried to leave the location but ran into an abandoned house two blocks away. The Charger fled the scene in the opposite direction.”

News ALABASTER REPORTER

December 2, 2015 3A

Shelby Baptist holds fundraising sale Sandra Says Sandra Thames Community Columnist Two weeks ago, Masquerade Fundraising, a jewelry and accessories company with fundraising teams throughout the United States, held its fall showing at Shelby Baptist Health Center.

The Baptist Health Ladies Auxiliary did a great job with advertising, helping customers, gift wrapping, etc.

Owner Carlos Horne has held two shows per year for the Shelby Baptist Health Center Auxiliary for a number of years.

He has 45 work crews across the nation who split their profits 20/80 with the hospitals where they present their showings.

Last year alone they raised over $5 million for their customers.

Since its inception, over $25 million has been raised

by Masquerade Jewelry partnering with hospitals as a wonderful way to help share.

CONTRIBUTED

The Baptist Health Ladies Auxiliary help with a fall showing for Masquerade Fundraising at Shelby Baptist Health Center.

Crews personally work with each hospital staff to strategically develop a plan to meet the fundraising goals for that hospital.

Among the hundreds of items offered at the November showing were necklaces, chains, crosses, bracelets (sporty and dressy), earrings (pierced, clips, wooden, plastic, pearl, rhinestone, silver and gold toned and whatever you can imagine). Alabama and Auburn fans were pleased with the scarves, duffle bags, key chains, wallets,

gloves, jewelry, purses, hats and leggings.

There were warm hats for toddlers and kiddies, toboggans for adults, battery powered lanterns, puzzles, piggy banks, light up pens, fanny packs, iPhone connectors, light switches and other children’s items such as hair bands, ponytail holders and fingerless gloves.

Men’s offerings included ties, handkerchiefs, cuff links, watches of every style, bracelets, rings and other assorted items.

Masquerade is fun, some-

times a frenzy, but always with a lot of positive energy for staff, customers, volunteers and patients.

It takes a lot of time to browse and decide on that perfect gift for someone or yourself !

If you missed the sale in November, be sure and not miss the spring collection.

Sandra Thames is a community columnist for the city of Alabaster and can be reached at bobthames1942@ yahoo.com.

Lindsey Allison announces re-election bid

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor Indian Springs—Current Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Lindsey Allison has announced she plans to seek re-election to represent District 7 on the Commission.

Allison, who has been serving on the Commission for more than two decades, is the first and one of only two women to ever serve on the commission. She has served as chairwoman of the Commission for the past seven years and has been chairwoman of the Finance Committee for the past four years.

Allison received her bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and her juris doctorate degree from the Cumberland School of Law. She is a partner in Allison and May Law Firm, and is a member of the Alabama, Birmingham and Shelby County Bar associations.

She has served on the Board of Directors of Leadership Shelby County, The ARC of Shelby County, Shelby County School System Foundation, Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, Family Connection, the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Shelby County, Oak Mountain High School Boosters Association, the Women’s Foundation, Mutual Savings Credit Union, Children’s First, Shelby County Arts Council and as a member of the North Shelby County Library Advisory Board.

Allison is a founding member of the Shelby County Indigent Defense Council. She is a graduate of Leadership Shelby County, Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Alabama. She has served as a Sunday school teacher and in various other leadership positions at Asbury United Methodist Church.

She has served on the PTO

FILE

Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Lindsey Allison has announced her re-election bid. staff for Oak Mountain High School and Oak Mountain Intermediate School and in various other civic and community capacities.

She has been the recipient of the Shelby County Public Servant of the Year Award given by Leadership Shelby County, the Community Service Award given by Jefferson State Community College, the University of Montevallo Good Neighbor

Award, the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Public Service Award and the Shelby County Republican of the Year Award.

Allison and her husband, Russ, have two daughters, Kelsey and Leigh.

Primary elections will be held on March 1, 2016, with a primary runoff on April 12, 2016, if necessary. The general election will be held on Nov. 8, 2016.

Cops: Caretaker stole from 90-year-old victim

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor ALABASTER—A 51-yearold Vinemont woman is facing several felony charges after police said she used a 90-year-old victim’s credit card to make unauthorized purchases for herself last summer.

The Alabaster Police Department arrested Clara Nanette Owens, who lists an address on Cullman County 1078 in Vi n e m o n t , on Nov. 17 and charged her with one felony count of financial exploitation of an elderly Owens person and four counts of fraudulent use of a debit or credit card.

According to Alabaster Police Department Lt. Grant Humphries, the charges came after the department began investigating several fraudulent credit card charges made at stores in the city between June 3-23.

After looking into the charges, APD investigators determined Owens allegedly was using a 90-year-old man’s credit card to make personal purchases without authorization. Owens was the victim’s caregiver, Humphries said.

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“Basically, the financial exploitation of an elderly person charge applies to any victims who are 60 or older,” Humphries said.

Financial exploitation of an elderly person and

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Owens is scheduled to appear in Shelby County District Court at 8:30 a.m. on Dec. 10 for a preliminary hearing, according to court records.

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The Alabaster Reporter is published every Wednesday by Shelby County Newspapers, Inc., 115 Main Street, Columbiana, AL 35051. If you have news tips or news items, please contact the Alabaster Reporter by email at news@alabasterreporter. com, by phone at 669-3131 or by fax at 669-4217. If you have sports tips or sports items, please contact the Alabaster Reporter by email at sports@alabasterreporter.com, by phone at 669-3131 or by fax at 6694217. To give your tip the best chance of getting published in the next edition of the Alabaster Reporter, contact the appropriate department by noon on Thursday.

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News 4A December 2, 2015

ALABASTER REPORTER

Alabaster receives several annexation requests

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor ALABASTER—The Alabaster City Council will decide in the coming weeks if it will vote to annex several properties currently just outside the city’s limits after the property owners recently expressed interest in becoming a part of the city.

During a Nov. 5 work session, the City Council received information about four sets of annexation requests the city recently received – Most of which came as a result of residents wishing for their children to remained zoned for Alabaster schools.

Through a separation agreement between the Shelby County School System and the Alabaster City School System, students zoned for Alabaster schools who do not live in the city limits are being phased out of Alabaster schools over the next few years.

The first annexation request came from four parcels along Mellow Lane, which is off U.S. 31 near the

Alabaster-Calera line.

Mellow Lane is accessed by a dirt road, causing concern for some City Council members during the work session. Because Alabaster would assume maintenance of the neighborhood road if it becomes part of the city, council members said they would have to examine the Mellow Lane request further before making a decision on it.

Council members also expressed concern because all Mellow Lane residents were not included on the annexation requests. The city attempts to annex entire subdivisions at a time for the sake of consistency in adding city services to the newly annexed properties, council members said.

The second annexation request came from two lots containing two homes along Crosscut Road, which is near the recently annexed subdivision surrounding Fogle Lake.

Another one of the annexation requests came from one piece of property surrounding Fogle Lake

FILE

The Alabaster City Council will consider several annexation requests during an upcoming meeting. not included in the original annexations surrounding the lake. The property contains one home.

The final annexation request came from a property off Shelby County 12 near the entrance to the Scottsdale subdivision. As the lot currently stands, it would not be in compliance with Alabaster

zoning codes, as it contains two houses on a single lot, and would have to be divided into multiple parcels before they could be annexed, council members said.

The City Council likely will vote on the annexations during its Dec. 7 meeting, which will begin at 7 p.m. at Alabaster City Hall.

Obituaries Gunter Blake Benson Wilsonville Gunter Blake Benson, age 22, of Wilsonville, died Friday, Nov. 20.

The funeral service was held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 22 at Wilsonville Baptist Church with Rev. Richard Horton and Rev. Charles Edmondson officiating. Burial followed in Wilsonville City Cemetery.

Visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 at Bolton Funeral Home.

Please sign online condolences at Boltonfuneralhome. com.

Billie Gail Gardner Westover Billie Gail Gardner, age 54, of Westover, died Thursday, Nov. 19.

The funeral service was held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 at New Life Church with Pastor David Wooten officiating. Burial followed in Liberty Baptist Cemetery.

Visitation was from noon 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 at the church. Bolton Funeral Home directed.

Mrs. Gardner is preceded in death by her father, Bill Taylor and a brother, Dale Edwards.

She is survived by her sons, Kriss Gardner, Johnathan Daniel Gardner (Beth), and Jeremy Gardner; grandchildren, Aidan Gardner, Lili Gardner, and Iris Gardner; mother, Claudia Taylor; brother, Dewayne Taylor (April); and numerous other family and friends.

Please sign online condolences at Boltonfuneralhome. com.

Jim M. Hendricks Pelham Jim M. Hendricks, 57, of Pelham, passed away Sunday, Nov. 22. He was the world’s greatest husband and dad! He had the honor of recently attending his son’s wedding, and went to heaven after a brief illness. He was born on March 8, 1958. Mr. Hendricks was a member of Pembroke Baptist Church in Pembroke, Ky. He loved his work and the people at St. Vincent’s Hospital and Baptist Health

System, as he was a computer programmer for 26 years.

M r .

Hendricks is survived by his wife, Hendricks Charlotte Mitchell Hendricks; son, Kevin James Hendricks; daughter-in-law, Nicole Hendricks; parents, Jim and Janice Hendricks; and sisters, Diane Downey and Paula Smock.

A graveside service for Jim was at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25 at Rosedale Cemetery, Pembroke, Ky. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pembroke Baptist Church, P.O. Box 219, Pembroke, KY 42266.

Rickey Joe Jenkins Tuscaloosa Rickey Joe Jenkins, age 62, of Tuscaloosa, died Thursday, Nov. 19.

Rickey was a US Marine Corps Vietnam veteran. His motto was: “I was born to serve; not to be served.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Martha Jenkins. He is survived by his daughter, Rikki “Nikki” Hamilton (Alexis) of Vance; grandchildren, Ricky Hamilton and Nicholas Hamilton; and brother, Mike Jenkins (Nancy) of Bessemer.

Visitation will be held Sunday, Nov. 22 from 2-4 p.m. at Rockco Funeral Home (Montevallo). The funeral service was at 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 23 at Rockco Funeral Home (Montevallo), with burial following at 2 p.m. at Alabama National Cemetery.

Bro. Bill Donaldson officiated.

Online condolences may be made at Rockcofuneralmontevallo. com.

Larry Harold Riffe LaGrange, Ga. Larry Harold Riffe, age 58, of LaGrange, Ga., passed away Monday, Nov. 23.

The funeral service was held at 2 p.m., Friday, Nov. 27

at Bolton Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Beckner officiating.

Burial followed in Pinelawn Gardens. Visitation was from 12:30-2 p.m., Friday, Nov. 27, at Bolton Funeral Home.

Mr. Riffe is survived by his wife, Karen Riffe; children, Byron Keith McDaniel (Jennifer) and Lauren Riffe Thompson (Chris); grandchildren, Travis McDaniel, Eli Thompson, Libby Grace McDaniel, and Lawton Thompson; parents, Harold and Jewell Riffe; brother, Randy Riffe (Pam); nephew, Adam Riffe (Brooke); great nephew, Aiden Riffe; great niece, Emerson Riffe; and numerous other family and friends.

Please sign online condolences at Boltonfuneralhome. com.

Dorothy Southern Whitten Vincent Funeral service for Dorothy Southern Whitten, age 89, were Friday, Nov. 27 at 11 a.m. from the chapel of Kilgroe Funeral Home.

Interment was at Macedonia North Cemetery in Vincent.

The family received friends on Friday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Mrs. Whitten passed away Monday, Nov. 23. She is preceded in death by her husband, Sam Whitten, and son, Kenny Whitten.

She is survived by her daughter, Kay Lenn; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and sister, Edna Flemming.

Condolences may be offered online at Kilgroefh. com.

Kilgroe Funeral Home – Pell City directed the service.

Leila Hope Shelby Leila Hope, age 89, of Shelby, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 24.

The funeral service was held at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 29 at Bolton Funeral Home with Pastor Chris DeGreen officiating.

Burial followed in Pinelawn Gardens.

Visitation was from 1:30-

2:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 29, at Bolton Funeral Home.

Leila was a native of South Carolina. During WWII, she worked in a South Carolina Munitions factory while her husband served in the South Pacific. They brought their family to Homewood in 1960 and they retired to Shelby in 1987.

Mrs. Hope is preceded in death by her husband, James Monroe Hope; son, James Monroe Hope, Jr.; parents, Joe and Mae Collins Moseley and brothers, Wilburn Moseley, Joe Moseley, Jr. and Harry Moseley, Sr. She is survived by her daughters, Carolyn Elise Catron, Amy S. Hope, Ann Hope Jones (Earl), and Robin Hope; grandchildren, James E. Catron (Kelley), Amelia Hale (Kevin), Virginia Oleinick (Jason), Sara Diane Archibald (Skye), and Patrick Monroe Jones (Jackie); five great grandchildren; and numerous other nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Please sign online condolences at Boltonfuneralhome. com.

Bobby Carl Wyatt Calera Bobby Carl Wyatt, age 78, of Calera, beloved husband, father and grandfather went to be with the Lord Friday, Nov. 20.

Bobby graduated from Chilton County High School in 1956 where he was an allstar pitcher, drafted by the Cincinnati Reds. He later went to work for Alabama Power and retired after 30 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Pelham. He loved fishing, music, children and coaching baseball.

His survivors include his wife of 34 years, Beverly Wyatt; daughter, Carla Mims; sons, Terry Wyatt, William Perry (Tina) and Mark Perry; and grandchildren, Kaitlin Mims and Joseph Perry.

A visitation was held from 1-2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 24, with a funeral service that followed at 2 p.m., both at Charter Funeral Home.

Charter Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

OBITUARIES: Only death notices and obituaries submitted by funeral homes will be accepted. The first 100 words cost $75. Each additional word will be charged $0.50 per word. Basic death notices are free of charge. Photos may be included for a flat charge of $10 each.

News ALABASTER REPORTER

December 2, 2015 5A

News 6A December 2, 2015

ALABASTER REPORTER

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December 2, 2015 7A

News 8A December 2, 2015

ALABASTER REPORTER

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Lunch: Pizza, hot ham and cheese, garden salad, squash casserole and variety of fruit.

Community CHRISTMAS ANGEL TREE PROGRAM: The Salvation Army of Shelby and Chilton counties is in need of more sponsors for children through the organization’s Christmas Angel Tree program. The deadline for delivering gifts to the Salvation Army warehouse for distribution to children is Dec. 4. To sponsor a child through the program, call the Salvation Army at 663-7105 or email AlabasterAngelTree@ gmail.com.

GERALDINE AND RICKY AT PELHAM CHURCH OF GOD: Geraldine and Ricky, nationally known ventriloquist, will be at Pelham Church of God on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Admission is free, but an offering will be received. The church is located on Shelby County 52 East, one-fourth of a mile off Interstate 65 Exit 242.

ALABASTER DECEMBER COUNCIL MEETING DATES: The Alabaster City Council will follow a different meeting schedule than normal during the month of December to avoid meeting in the middle of the Christmas-New Year’s Day holidays. The council will meet on Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 before returning to the second and fourth Mondays in January 2016. All Alabaster council meetings begin at 7 p.m. at Alabaster City Hall at 1953 Municipal Way. WINTER WONDERLAND: The Creek View Elementary PTO is hosting a Winter Wonderland from 6-9 p.m. Dec. 11.

Admission is $5 or $20 family max. The ticket covers a picture with Santa and all the games and crafts. Vendors will be onsite for visitors’ Christmas shopping. There will be a basket auction and chili dinner available for purchase.

Church GRIEFSHARE AT KINGWOOD CHURCH: GriefShare is beginning the fifth year of providing care and guidance to the community for those that have

Dec. 7 Breakfast: Sausage biscuit, scrambled eggs, cereal and fruit.

Lunch: Spaghetti with garlic roll, chicken nuggets and tenders, green peas, garden salad and variety of fruit.

Dec. 8

Christmas Angel Tree program experienced the loss of a loved one. It could be the loss of a spouse, parent, child, family member or friend. All sessions are non-denominational and confidential. Facilitators have experienced their own grief and are trained to assist attendees through one of life’s most difficult challenges and to guide them on their path to move forward. Meetings are held each Tuesday evening with “meet and greet” time beginning at 6:30 p.m. Men, women and teenagers are welcome to join. GriefShare sessions are 13 weeks duration.

Participants can begin at any time. Contact 663-3933.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT in Alabaster, 858 Kent Dairy Road, is handing out beans and rice to people in need every third Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon.

Info: 621-3418.

YOGA CLASSES: Community yoga classes are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9-10 a.m. at the Restore building-Alabaster United Methodist Church. Cost is donation based. Bring a mat or use a provided mat. Wear comfortable clothes and bring water.

Info: D. Clark at 381-1872 or deirdreyogini@yahoo.com.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ALABASTER, 8828 Alabama 119, hosts a Children’s Fellowship on Wednesday nights from 5:307:15 p.m. Info: 663-3152.

WESTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH, 1155 Alabaster Boulevard, hosts a support group for women who are strug-

Breakfast: Glazed donut, oatmeal, cereal and fruit. gling with infertility on the last Monday of every month from 7-8 p.m. For more information, call 223-5134 or email Aprilpoer@ charter.net. Westwood also hosts the support group Divorce Care on Sundays at 9 a.m. For more information, call 664-0122.

ALABASTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Community yoga classes are offered on Tuesdays at 9:3010:30 a.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. and Thursdays at 9:3010:30 a.m. at Alabaster United Methodist Church. Cost is donation based. Bring a mat or use a provided mat. Wear comfortable clothes and bring water. Information: D. Clark at 381-1872 or deirdreyogini@ yahoo.com.

ANGLICAN Coventry Anglican Church

APOSTOLIC Abundant Life Church

First Baptist Church Fellowship Church Meadow View Community Church Ryan Baptist Church

Wednesdays: Tunes & Tales for all ages, 3:30 p.m.

Fridays: Toddler Tales, 10:30 a.m.

Call the Alabaster public library at 664-6822 for library events.

Seniors ALABASTER

Dec. 2 Breakfast: Breakfast pizza, cereal and fruit.

Tuesdays: Wii Bowling, 12 p.m.

Lunch: Southwestern chicken and rice soup, nacho supreme, black beans, cilantro brown rice, corn and variety of fruit.

Wednesdays: Rook, Crochet,

Lunch

Thursdays: Intermediate Line Dancing, 9:30 a.m.; Beginning Line Dancing, 10:10 a.m.; Open Paint, 12 p.m.; Gentle Yoga - new, 12:15 p.m.; Bridge, 12:30 p.m.; Ageless Adventures in Movement, 1:30 p.m.

Fridays: Games and Tempo Exercises, 10 a.m.; Clean Living in a Dirty World Class.

The Alabaster Senior Center, 1097 Seventh Street Southwest. The center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For weekly schedule call 663-1307.

Meetings KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC.: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Alabaster-Pelham (Shelby County) Alumni typically meets on third Saturdays in Helena. All members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. are invited to attend.

Business professional attire is requested. Contact shelbynupes@gmail.com or (205) 937-3092 for more details on the exact location.

TALES FOR TOTS STORYTIME: The Arc of Shelby County has Tales for Tots Storytime on the last Friday of every month from 10-11 a.m. at The Arc of Shelby County, 203 Amphitheater

Yoga Classes

Dec. 3

Road, Pelham. Come join us for a fun-filled story, craft activity, snack and best of all, free family fun! Info: 664-9313 or visit TheArcofShelby.org.

Please bring a donation as your admission (wipes, glue, stickers, paper, etc.)

COFFEE AND CONTACTS: A Free Networking Meeting is held every Thursday at 8 a.m. at McAlister’s Deli, located at 152 Bowling Lane in Pelham.

Breakfast sandwiches and coffee will be provided for everyone to enjoy while they mingle and introduced themselves to each other. For more information, contact Wendy L. Ainsworth, general manager at McAlister’s Deli Pelham, at (205) 985-9797.

DANCE CLASSES: Mondays beginning at 7 p.m. at Shelby County Instructional Services Center, 601 First Street South.

Info: 682-5900.

WINE SOCIETY: The American Wine Society tasting and lecture are the first Sunday of every month at 2:30 p.m. Info: 664-5583.

SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE at Camp Branch-Saginaw Civic Center every Saturday from 7-10 p.m. Children are welcome but under 14 are not allowed on the dance floor for safety reasons. Free line dancing lessons from 6-7 p.m. Admission is $7.50 for adults and $5 for children.

SPECIAL MOMS’ GROUP meets every third Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Local moms with special needs kids meet for fellowship at local restaurants. Info: Mimi Birk, 533-1276 or visit the Facebook page: Special Moms Night Out. TOASTMASTERS MEETING: The Circle of Champions will hold public speaking and leadership skills meetings every first and third Monday.

The meetings are held at Abundant Life Church, 1625 Kent Dairy Road, Alabaster, at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $41 for six month membership. No cost to attend meetings. Info: Wanda Stillers at 475-5964 or visit Circlechampions.toastmastersclubs.org.

Breakfast: Yogurt parfait bar, granola, cereal and fruit.

Lunch: Chicken n’ dumplins, cheesy mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, baked sweet potatoes with apples, green peas, garden salad and variety of fruit.

Dec. 4 Breakfast: Mini pancakes, sausage patty, cereal and fruit.

To include your church in this directory, call 669-3131 or email worship@alabasterreporter.com.

in Alabaster

Pleasant Chapel AME Church

Library

Mondays: Singing with The Timeless Treasures, 10 a.m.; Head to Toe Fitness, 1 p.m.; Strengthen, Stretch & Restore Mat Class, 2:15 p.m.

WORSHIP AFRICAN METHODIST BAPTIST Community Baptist Church EPISCOPAL

Lunch: Steak bites, teriyaki chicken with egg roll, brown rice, oriental veggies, garden salad and variety of fruit.

Knitting and More, 9 a.m.; Rummikub, 9:30 a.m.; Arthritis Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; Zumba Gold, 1 p.m.; Zumba Gold; Adventures in Dance, 2:15 p.m.

Westwood Baptist Church

METHODIST

CHURCH OF GOD

Alabaster First United Methodist Church

Alabaster Church of God (Cleveland, TN)

Camp Branch United Methodist Church

New Hope Church of God Hickory Hills Worship Center

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Siluria Baptist Church

EPISCOPAL

Kingwood Church

Southside Baptist Church

Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit

Mount Era Methodist Church

MISSIONARY BAPTIST

Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church

Unity Christian Center Well Life Christian Church

NONDENOMINATIONAL Amazing Grace Worship Center Greater Miracle Temple Church

Freewill Missionary Baptist Empowerment Word Church Church (Kingwood Christian Liberty Missionary School) Baptist Church

PRESBYTERIAN (PCA) Evangel Church PCA

PRESBYTERIAN (CUMBERLAND) First Presbyterian Church of Alabaster (Cumberland)

News ALABASTER REPORTER

December 2, 2015 9A

THS student ready to help peers in need

By NEAL WAGNER

Managing Editor

REPORTER PHOTO/NEAL WAGNER

Thompson High School student Leah Warman has spent the past few months stocking the Tomahawk Shop at the school.

After working for weeks to stock and organize the shop, Warman is now preparing to open the shop during the first week of December.

Once the shop is set up, students in need will be able to visit one of the school’s counselors, who will allow the students to access the Tomahawk Shop to obtain essentials such as pens and pencils, paper, shoes and clothing. Once a student visits the Tomahawk Shop, the

RECORDS Police Reports The following are incident and offense reports from the Alabaster Police Department from Nov. 19, 2015 –Nov.24, 2015: Nov. 19  Unlawful breaking and entering from 200 block of Wildflower Trail (residence/ home). Stolen were two purses valued at $40.  Theft of property III from Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster (department store). Stolen was an air pistol valued at $49.97, headlight bulbs valued at $44.88, two flash lights valued at $55, and a GPS tracker valued at $39.97.  Possession of a controlled substance from Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster (department store).  Information only report from 400 block of Grandeview Trace (residence/home).  Theft of property III from 100 block of Wixford Way, Alabaster (residence/ home). Stolen was an Alabama tag valued at $100.  Found property from 100 block of Ozley Road, Alabaster (highway/street). Found was an Iphone V, a wallet, US Currency valued at $75, a driver’s license, and personal documents.  Domestic violence III Form Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster (supermarket).

Nov. 20  Property damage from County Road 95, Alabaster (highway/street). Damages valued at $15,000 were done to a Crown Victoria; $1,500 was done to the “Welcome to Alabaster” sign.  Identity theft from 200 block of Silver Creek Parkway, Alabaster (residence/ home). Stolen was a credit/debit card.  Harassment from 500 block of 3rd Street, Alabaster (residence/home).  Theft of property III form 600 block of Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster (specialty store). Stolen were shoes valued at $32.44.  Harassment from 1st Street, Alabaster (restaurant).  Property damage from US 119, Alabaster (highway/street).

Nov. 21  Information only report from 100 block of Berryhill Circle, Alabaster (residence/ home).  Property damage from Colonial Promenade Parkway, Alabaster (other/ unknown). Damages valued at $800 were done to a rear fender.  Open door from 300 block of 5th Avenue, Alabaster (church).  Possession of a controlled substance from 800 block of Old US 31, Alabaster (highway/street).  Driving under the influence from 1st Street, Alabaster (highway/street).

Nov. 22  Possession of a controlled substance from 1st Street, Alabaster (convenience store).  Domestic incident from 250 block of Timber Ridge Circle, Alabaster (residence/ home).  Harassing communications from 700 block of 2nd Avenue, Alabaster (residence/home).  Animal complaint from 1000 block of 6th Court, Alabaster (residence/home).  Animal complaint from 300 block of Sweet Leaf Drive, Alabaster (residence/ home).  Information only report from 100 block of Kentwood Drive (residence/home).  Juvenile court from 100 block of Sterling Gate Drive, Alabaster (highway/ street).

Nov. 23  Property damage from Kent Dairy Road, Alabaster (highway/street).

Damages valued at $1,500 were done to a Volkswagen Jetta.

counselor will update the shop’s inventory listing.

Students who need to visit the shop will be able to do so discreetly.

After spreading the word about the shop at the beginning of the school year, Warman said she saw a flood of support from the community.

“The majority of the donations came from the community. I would say it was more than 100 people (who donated),” Warman said. “I also had

s d et ite tick le!

Lim r of ilab e va mb l a nu stil

ALABASTER—In late August, Girl Scout and Thompson High School student Leah Warman began cleaning out a barren, unused utility closet near the school’s front office. Today, the room looks nothing like it did only a few months ago.

“I finished setting everything up about two weeks ago,” Warman said on Nov. 24 as she stood in the new “Tomahawk Shop” filled to the brim with neatly organized bins of clothing, shoes school supplies and more.

Over the last few months, Warman, who is a member of the Alabaster-based Girl Scout Troop 993 and the daughter of THS Assistant Principal Drew Warman, has been collecting donations from her classmates, local churches and members of the community to stock the Tomahawk Shop.

The idea for the shop came about as Warman began working on her Girl Scout Gold Award project, which is the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn.

some support from people here at the school.”

Now, Warman is making plans to advertise the Tomahawk Shop’s opening to allow THS students to utilize it.

“Hopefully, I will get to announce it on the (THS) News or on the intercom when it opens. I need to advertise it as much as possible so students will know about it,” Warman said. “This is proof that if you give to the community, the community gives back.”

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AMERICAN VILLAGE CITIZENSHIP TRUST

 Attempt burglary III form 1400 block of Tropical Circle (residence/home).  Information only report from 1000 block of 1st Street, Alabaster (highway/ street).  Criminal mischief I from 1800 block of Amberley Woods Way, Helena (residence/ home). Damages valued at $8,356.17 were done to a roof.  Arrest prior to requisition from Thompson Road, Alabaster (highway/ street).  Domestic violence III from 500 block of Old US 31 (residence/home).  Theft of property III from South Colonial Drive, Alabaster (specialty store).

Stolen were three Xbox games valued at $69.99, an Xbox controller valued at $65, and two LG wireless headsets valued at $139.98.  Domestic violence III from 100 block of Airpark Industrial Road, Alabaster (residence/home).

MONTEVALLO, ALABAMA WWW. AMERICANVILLAGE.ORG

Christmas Lunch and Tour at American Village December 8-9-10 The perfect Christmas outing for your club or group.

Tickets are just $25 Call (205) 665-3535 ext. 1031 today to make your reservation

Nov. 24  Hospice death from 2200 block of Windsor Court (residence/home).

Arrests The following individuals were arrested and charged by the Alabaster Police Department from Nov. 19 –Nov.24, 2015: Nov. 19  Konnor Winston Pavey, 20, Montevallo, theft of property III.  Amber Moore Coleman, 19, Alabaster, domestic violence III. Nov. 20  Katherine Leigh Ann Biddie, 24, Maylene, alias writ of arrest.  Thomas Justin Walton, 31, Calera, alias writ of arrest.  Caleb Matthew Simmons, 19, Alabaster, alias writ of arrest.  Jona Renee McKenzie, 25, Montevallo, alias writ of arrest.  Aubrey Chandler Hamilton, 21, Maylene, theft of property III.  Sharlton Phillip Crawford, 34, Alabaster, alias writ of arrest.  Jimmy Leo Brasher, 54, Childersburg, driving under the influence of alcohol.

Nov. 21  Najawuan Corell Nash, 22, Alabaster, possession of a controlled substance.  Efrain Mundo Nostosa, 25, Alabaster, driving under the influence.

Nov. 22  Tydus Mahone, 34, Calera, possession of a controlled substance.  Tana Dale, 42, Alabaster, public intoxication.  Erick Flores Ayala, 20, Birmingham, failing to appear.

Nov. 23  Isabell Kesari Gervais, 55, Alabaster, arrest prior to requisition.

Nov. 24  Myron Lilly, 43, Alabaster, probation violation.

Divorces The following couples were granted divorces in Shelby County from Oct. 15-Nov. 11, 2015  Marvin Kent Ethridge of Montevallo and Elaine Presson Ethridge of Alabaster.  Carl Wayne Simmons of Birmingham and Janice Simmons of Alabaster.  Janet Lynn Cottrell and Talbert Barton Cottrell of Alabaster.  Andi Marie Cole of Alabaster and Bradley Aaron Cole of Pinson.  Thelma Adams Watson of Alabaster and Clarence Watson of Pelham.  Imelda Corral and Sergio Corral of Alabaster.  John Kenneth Shaw of Alabaster and Paula Marie Shaw of Pelham.  Reina Ester Martinez Villalata of Calera and Walter Hugo Mancia Meji of Alabaster.

Located on Hwy 280, east of I-459

GrandviewHealth.com

News 10A December 2, 2015

ALABASTER REPORTER

FILE

Jordan LeNoir, shown here earlier this season agaisnt Chelsea, was named the Tournament MVP of the Spartan Classic on Nov. 24.

Lady Warriors win second straight Spartan Classic

By BAKER ELLIS

Sports Editor MOUNTAIN BROOK— For the second consecutive year the Lady Warriors of Thompson have won the Spartan Thanksgiving Classic, hosted by Mountain Brook. Thompson beat Gardendale in the first round of the tournament before beating Central Tuscaloosa in the semis for a chance at the title, where the Lady Warriors faced the host team Mountain Brook, and won in overtime to stay perfect on the season and advance to 6-0.

Thompson cruised past Gardendale in the first round

of the tournament by a final of 70-54. The Lady Warriors had four in double figures in the opening game and were led by Jordan LeNoir, who finished with a double-double at 22 points and 11 rebounds. Lauren Black hit six threes in the game and finished with 18 points, Indiah Cohill finished wit 13 points and six assists while Kahyanne Bolton finished with 11 in the win.

The going got significantly tougher for Thompson after the first round of the tournament, as both Central and Mountain Brook pushed the Lady Warriors to the brink. Central was handed its first loss of the young

season in the semis thanks to a pair of double-doubles from LeNoir and Brittany Grice, who finished with 16 points and 12 rebounds and 10 points and 10 boards, respectively, as Thompson advanced to the finals via a 49-45 final.

The championship game pitted the last two Spartan Classic champions against each other, as Mountain Brook won the tournament two years ago before Thompson claimed the title last year. The Lady Spartans jumped on Thompson early, and held a 30-22 advantage heading into the break. After three quarters, Mountain Brook

still led 38-31, before the Thompson defense clamped down on the Lady Spartans.

Thompson allowed just four fourth-quarter points as the Lady Warriors tied the game at 42 apiece to force an extra period, which Thompson 11-5, winning the game, and subsequently the championship, by a final of 53-47.

LeNoir had 15 points in the championship game and was named the Tournament MVP. Bolton finished with 12 points while Grice finished with eight points and a whopping 18 rebounds.

Cohill and Azariah Jackson all were named to the AllTournament team as Thompson moved to 6-0.

Thompson and Hester ‘confident’ return to mat is imminent

By BAKER ELLIS

Sports Editor

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ALABASTER—The news broke late Friday afternoon, Nov. 20 that the Thompson Warriors wrestling program was being placed on restrictive probation for the remainder of the 2015-16 school year. The five-time defending state champions were hit for “numerous violations of Contest bylaws in its wrestling program,” according to a press release sent out by the AHSAA, and as a result are prohibited from competing in any contest involving more than two schools, including championship play, until the end of the school year.

The violations were self-reported, according to the press release and confirmed by Thompson principal Wesley Hester. Hester said the problem arose from a misinterpretation of the AHSAA rule that limits the number of out-

of-season competition dates allowed per sport.

“The issue was with the coaches,” Hester said. “It was the presence of the coaches at some of the competitions we attended. Some of the events weren’t technically matches.

However them being there and being present qualifies as a competition date. There’s an opportunity for coaches to develop and coach the players in those situations, and it could be considered a competitive advantage. We were not looking at it through that lens so to speak.”

Under AHSAA rules, schools are allowed four days of summer practice competition per sport. When it was brought to the Thompson administration’s attention that it was the presence of the wrestling coaches Shawn Weltzin and Chris Pike at these summer events that qualified them as competition dates under AHSAA

rules, Hester and the administration took the necessary steps.

“It (the violation) was self-reported,” Hester said.

“It came to our attention about the issues and this particular rule. We sought the guidance of the athletic association and we sent in a letter of self-report.”

Each competition the wresting program took part in over the allowed number counts as its own specific violation. Neither the press release nor Hester gave specifics on how many times Thompson violated the rule, but both said it was more than once.

“It was multiple,” Hester said. “We had some clinics and some camps that we had engaged in that had to be counted towards that. As far as our competition dates that we knew would count towards those (four available days), we had three.”

While the news came as a shock and disappointment to the Alabaster community, there is still hope yet to salvage the wrestling season in 2015-16. Thompson can apply for relief from the restrictive probation on Jan. 4, 2016, which would allow the Warriors to potentially salvage the 2015-16 season, the press release stated.

Hester feels strongly that the Warriors will be able to wrestle again this year.

“It’s been clearly laid out for us,” Hester said. “It’s just a matter of time. It’s just mainly following through with missing out on the events. Once the time passes us by we feel very confident that we will be back on the mat.”

The Thompson wrestling program has distinguished itself as the top program in the state. The program is entering into its ninth year of existence, and has won a state championship in each of the last five years under the direction of Weltzin.

Two-time heavyweight state champion TJ Rayam is entering into his senior season this year and highlights another strong Warrior team.