The Official Publication of the City of Alabaster
Alabaster Connection january 2014
The
Albert L. Scott Library A community gathering place Inside this issue... Local Author, Dena Bedsole Kids First Awareness Center Receives Grant
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From the Mayor’s Desk... From the late John Lennon, “So this is Christmas, and what have you done? Another year over, and a new one has begun.” One of the most wonderful aspects of music (year ‘round), is how we relate to phrases in the lyrics—sometimes they seem to meet us right where we are, resulting in self- reflection and assessment! Christmas is the season which brings out the best in us—we are more aware of the hurting around us, more generous, more hospitable to perfect strangers, and drawn to family we’ve missed because we’ve been too busy throughout the year. You could say that Christmas brings out the Christ in us. Marty Handlon Well, in our community, one doesn’t have to look hard to Mayor, City of Alabaster see all the good being done around us. The best part of being your mayor, for the last year, is the privilege of being invited to attend events where citizens are being honored and recognized for their contribution to a good and worthy cause or to our community. I have learned so much more about what is going on behind the scenes in the community —and, it is so inspiring! Although they may receive some press recognition, the printed story barely scratches the surface of the humble service so many citizens freely give. I have always felt like the best thing about Alabaster, and Shelby County, is the people; but now I have an even greater appreciation for all that is happening on a daily basis with the good people around us. As a friendly reminder, our young ones are watching us and learning what they see. I have never been so moved than by the TIS fifth grade graduation ceremony of the Lady Liberty Program. Each team had a class representative write an introduction and present awards to those they believe to be super citizens. As parents, we often think our kids do not realize all that is done and sacrificed on their behalf, or what is really important. Well, be proud of your children because even if they do not say it, they realize what people do for them. It was incredibly moving to hear our children give well written and deserved recognition to members of the Custodial staff, who clean their classrooms; CNP staff, who cook and serve them a hot breakfast every morning; the Math teacher, who made math easy to understand; the Youth Football Coach, who taught the value of team and hard work; the Runner, who runs for awareness for those who cannot run; the SRO, who protects them every day at school; the Fireman, who is there in an emergency but also substitute teaches at their school; the local Veteran and current military parents, who have sacrificed and serve our country; several public safety professionals from different divisions of law enforcement; and a couple of elected officials. In no way do I want to minimize the recognition for some of us, but one would presume our children would recognize public figures and public safety professionals as super citizens/hometown heroes. However, our children are recognizing all the vital pieces of a community. These children value the contribution of these citizens. I will remember and treasure that day for many years to come. And then the same group of students, plus some, pulled together in the competitive spirit of charity and won the System-wide canned food drive for our community’s Mana Ministries! There is not enough room here to list all of the super citizens and hometown heroes I have had the privilege and honor to meet in 2013, but trust me when I say, we have plenty you don’t read or hear about. I look forward to more opportunities to meet even more of them in 2014! We all ask ourselves questions each year, as we evaluate our personal new year’s goals and resolutions. I encourage you to prayerfully consider your footprint in your community, because the next generation is watching and learning from us. Let them learn peace on earth and goodwill toward mankind. May you all have a blessed and plentiful new year!
Official Publication of the City of Alabaster Alabaster Connection is published monthly and it is delivered to citizens of the City of Alabaster Editorial Board The Public Relations Committee of the Alabaster City Council Committee Chair Councilwoman Sophie Martin Councilman Rick Walters Councilwoman Stacy Rakestraw Editor Luke Camara, me2graphics, LLC Contributors Shana Camara Heather Leavell Asha Ashley Maddie Trainor We welcome your comments and suggestions. Call 447-2214 or email luke@me2graphics.com
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1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 ©2014 City of Alabaster Non-Emergency City Numbers Police 24-Hours 663-7401 Alabaster Water Board 663-6155 Fire Department 664-6818 On the Cover (L to R) Judith Wright, Frances Smith, Nann Abbott, Carol Smith
cityofalabaster.com 3
C O u n ci l C o m m e n t s
Scott Brakefield, Ward 6 City Council President
Greetings! I hope that each of you had a great Christmas and is off to a great start in the New Year. This is a time that a number of us will set “New Year Resolutions.” Our resolutions vary amongst a number of different things. Often we set a goal of losing weight or getting into shape. If that is your goal, we have a number of great options here in Alabaster. The YMCA has recently expanded its facilities and offers a number of different options. We also have Anytime Fitness that allows for workouts on your schedule. You can even find a couple of places that offer the latest workout craze. There is Crossfit Alabaster and Crossfit Sky Soldiers. I am sure I am forgetting/missing other options in our City. But, if your goal is to shed some of those Holiday pounds, or you just want to get back in shape, Alabaster provides you with a number of options. Lastly, I want to say thank you to AFD as well as APD. AFD does a tremendous job around the holidays, with their Santa Tour as well as the Christmas Village behind Station 1. And I cannot thank APD enough for their presence in our shopping centers during the holiday season. Their presence serves as a deterrent to those who may want to cause trouble for our residents and visitors that enjoy the shopping season. Thanks!
Sophie Martin, Ward 1
Happy New Year! As one of the most progressive cities in the state of Alabama, Alabaster will continue to grow and foster in 2014. Over the last month, several additional meetings have been held with the City of Pelham to continue planning the repair of Alabaster Boulevard. I appreciate Pelham working with us to help resolve this major issue. It’s important to note that, citywide, Alabaster has a lot of streets that need serious attention and some streets have needed to be repaired longer than others. With more needs than resources, the city is addressing each issue as quickly as possible. Again, thank you for your patience as we continue to move forward to resolve this problem. Congratulations to Pastor Davis of Mount Olive Church 4 cityofalabaster.com
who was recently honored for 27 years of ministry. Mount Olive is one of the most historical churches in our community and has definitely had a strong impact on many lives. Pastor Davis’ ministry and pastoral care have positively changed the lives of many people in our city and beyond. James Smith, of Troop 72 in Alabaster, recently received the Boy Scout of America’s National Certificate of Merit for rescuing his younger sister from drowning this past summer. Congratulations to James on this extraordinary honor. Thank you, James, for being a leader and a person of character who sets a remarkable example for other young leaders in our community. If you have any questions or ideas for our city, please contact me at 358-8742 or martin@cityofalabaster.com. Blessings, Sophie
Bob Hicks, Ward 2
I trust that Christmas was a time of celebration, fellowship, and peace for you and yours. This brings us to the next adventure: the beginning of a new year. Last year, 2013, blew by in a hurry, and brought a myriad of changes to our city. As the dawn breaks on next year, there are many new projects still before us that need to be accomplished as the quest of making Alabaster the best it can be continues. As a city, we are positioned to move forward just about as well as we have ever been: with strong department heads, well-equipped and trained city employee teams, and a city administration focused on giving our citizens what they deserve - a safe, well-managed, clean and fully serviced city in which they can live comfortably. Lynn says I live with rose-colored glasses on all the time, but I truly feel we are heading into 2014 at full speed and fully prepared. I would like to thank previous mayors and councils for setting the foundation of what is rapidly becoming one of the best cities in the state. But I am just a bit biased on that thought.... So what do we do now? There is something everyone in the city can do to improve our quality of life. On the city website, there is a button to “Report a Concern.” If you see something out of place (things out of code, roads needing repair, safety or health hazards, etc.), please, please, use this website tool to help us identify a correctable situation so that we can refer it to the appropriate department for handling, and get it squared away. City Manager George Henry is outstanding at channeling projects to the departments which can most quickly resolve them. If we all take just a few minutes to improve Alabaster this coming year, that would total up to over 90,000 minutes of improvement. It’s kind of staggering when you think about it. Personally, I resolve to work for more green space within Ward 2 and the city as a whole, strive to improve the hospitality industry in our city by offering new opportunities and avenues through which they may succeed, and continue a full-fledged support of our blossoming school system. With this three-pronged approach to municipal improvement, I fully believe that we can grow our city in a logical, intelligent manner. I ask you to join me in this belief
and take just a little time, once in a while, to do something good for Alabaster. I assure you, Alabaster has good things in store for us. Happy New Year! Grace and peace, Bob
Stacy Rakestraw, Ward 3
Happy New Year Alabaster! In December, I had the privilege of attending Boy Scout Troop 72’s closing program – closing after eleven years. There have been 30 young men from this charter to earn the highest rank in scouting – Eagle Scout! Congratulations to all of them and to the dedicated men who volunteered years of service to help serve, mentor, and mold these young men into leaders. One young man, James Smith, received a National Certificate of Merit for his heroic actions to save his sister from drowning. It was an honor, on behalf of the Alabaster City Council, to present this award to him. Some topics of discussion in our meetings lately include updating the “Abandon Car and Weed” ordinance, discussing city road paving, and discussing annexation. Please come to our work sessions or meetings. They are all open to the public. Speeding in Navajo Hills is being closely watched. SPEED warning devices are in place to make drivers aware of their speed so they know if they are going over 20mph. If this does not help, we do have the option of “No Tolerance” and will ticket anyone going over the limit. Please keep in contact with me. I have enjoyed getting to hear from many of you this past year.
Rick Walters, Ward 4
Happy New Year! As the New Year begins, we can see the end of several milestones in Alabaster. First and foremost is the last half of the first Alabaster City School year. Our new system is shaping up to be all it was advertised to be. This year will also see the end of construction of the Dick’s Sporting Goods. As we look forward to them opening this year, we are also working on other several other projects to enhance your shopping experience. The national economy continues to improve, and because of this, companies are investing in our city and our school system. Student, educator, and community involvement is bringing the anticipated results that come with a locally run school system. Finally, we see the end of an era with the old YMCA. I toured the facility last month, and while we all hoped it could be saved, it is obvious that it would cost more to bring it up to code than to replace it. I understand it has a special place in many of our residents’ hearts, but hopefully we can build something in the future that will create great memories for future generations.
Thanks for all who put on and attended our Christmas parade, and thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Questions or comments? Let me know what you think at walters@cityofalabaster.com Keep in Touch!
Russell Bedsole, Ward 5
Happy 2014, Alabaster! Another 365 days, 52 weeks, 12 months has come and gone. There were so many wonderful things that occurred in our city in 2013, and the prospects for 2014 are very exciting. As I have shared with you before, the dawn of a new year is personally exciting to me because it represents a fresh start and new beginnings. Take a moment to reflect on those things in your life that may benefit from a new beginning or a fresh start. May your 2014 be blessed and fulfilling to you and your family. Things to look for in 2014: Thompson Rd widening and sidewalk project, completion of Dick’s Sporting Goods, traffic signal installed at the intersection on Hwy 119 and Mission Hill Rd, survey work and environmental studies to begin on Hwy 119 widening project, and many more yet to be named projects. Thank you all for your support and confidence in our leadership and please let me know how I can better serve you.
Tommy Ryals, Ward 7
As we start a new year, I thought I’d mention some items your City government is working on now. These are in addition to the numerous routine items addressed daily, primarily by our employees, to improve our City. •Recruiting more big retail boxes to the I-65 development area –mainly behind the JC Penney’s. •Working on extending Fulton Springs Road, straight across Old Hwy 31 to Hwy 31 (and move the new traffic light), to better handle traffic coming from the south part of town to I-65. •Working on a traffic light for Hwy 80 and Hwy 119 – hopefully by Spring, 2014. •Working with DOT to widen Hwy 119 to Hwy 80 – hopefully within the next 3 years. •Working with local quarries to make improvements that will benefit all parties. •Working (particularly our City Manager) to bring the City up a technological level, which will benefit residents and employees. •Working on annexation options for several areas. Stay tuned…
cityofalabaster.com 5
happenings
THE
Albert L. Scott library Ashley and Rylee Fry
Nann Abbott, director of the Albert L Scott library which is named for a founding father of Alabaster, knows that the Alabaster library is a gem. It all starts with the dedicated staff. “I feel like I lead an incredible group of fantastic, professional, caring people,” she exuberantly said. “I give them all the credit,” she added. There are fourteen staff members of the Albert L. Scott Library. “They all have fourteen diverse personalities, yet we manage to work together,” she said laughing. Most of the employees focus on working at the circulation desk, where they greet patrons, answer questions, and are generally the face of the library. The remainder of the staff consists of librarians who hold advanced degrees in library science. Frances Smith is the children’s librarian; Carol Smith is the adult librarian; and Judith Wright is the reference services librarian. For each of these ladies, working as a librarian is a very rewarding experience. For Carol Smith it means providing a service that you cannot get anywhere else. “It is a free service, and unlike the internet, it never goes down,” she said with a grin. Carol Smith sees the library as being a resource for adults and seniors. “Every year we offer, along with AARP, free tax support for seniors. We also have offered job search workshops where we try to help job seekers gain the skills necessary for a successful job interview,” she said. In her department, she has also offered sign language classes, historical interpretation programs, and the ever popular Downton Abbey Tea and Trivia events. 6 cityofalabaster.com
Judith Wright loves to provide answers for people. “There is a quote by Neil Gaiman that says, ‘Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one,’” she shared. “I love this quote because it sums up the work I get to do every day. Helping people find the answer. Helping them to get it,” she said with a large smile. Part of Wright’s job is running the technology classes the library offers. She teaches patrons new tech like the newest smartphones and Windows 8, which is quite a feat. The moment she longs to hear in all of this is the “Oh, that’s how you do it” moment. “When they light up, that is my favorite part,” Wright beamed. Aside from a dedicated staff, the library boasts some amazing resources. “We are part of the larger Harrison Regional Library System, which allows us to have access to any book available in the system, regardless of the home library,” shared Abbott. The system runs a van to every library that participates. It drops off and picks up material for interlibrary loan. This system also allows a library to request books outside the county as well. “If there is a resource you are looking for, we can almost always get it for you,” Abbott boasted. Such a large system provides a great asset to the community. It helps lower costs by sharing expensive software across multiple community libraries - such as the online card catalog. It also allows the library to tap into dedicated IT support from the county. “It is a mutually beneficial system that is quite amazing for our patrons,” said Abbott. The Alabaster library is also the only one in the area that is open 7 days a week. The library contains a large selection of adult fiction, non-fiction, and children and young adult material. A row of computers that can be accessed by card holders sits in the larger of the two wings. There is also a large selection of DVDs, featuring modern
and classic movies arranged into children and adult sections. This access is free to card holders. Additionally, the library boasts a new meeting room. It was added recently as part of an expansion to the library. It is used just about every day, either for a program or overflow space. (On this particular day, a group of students, with a tutor, is using the room to study for an upcoming exam.) “Frances, our children’s librarian, uses it often, and it is a huge asset to us and to the community,” Abbot said. In addition to the traditional mediums –books, magazine, etc. - the Alabaster library recently expanded its e-book and audiobook selections through Camellia Net. This service allows users to download material directly to their e-readers, their computer, and even save audiobooks to mp3 players. “It is a great resource that really keeps us on the front edge of technology,” shared Abbott. For Abbott, all of these resources are wonderful and will be expanded. The librarians sift through the libraries massive collection, constantly removing outdated, seldom used, or poor conditioned material, to make room for new material. It is still the experience of visiting a library that touches her heart. “I believe it is important because we are a community, a place for people to gain knowledge. All for free.” she said. She added, “We serve everyone in the community - from the cradle to the grave.” For Abbott, it is also a very personal place. “I love being able to help people,” she said holding back tears For more information on the Alabaster Library, visit seven days a week at 100 9th St. NW. Alabaster, AL 35007.
Some of our Librarians’ Favorite Books Nann Abbott, Library Director: • •
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Shabby Chic by Rachel Ashwell
Carol Smith, Adult Services Director: • • • • •
Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card Bertie Plays the Blues by Alexander McCall Smith Dresden Files (series) by Jim Butcher
Judith Wright, Reference Services: • • • • •
Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress #1) by Jeaniene Frost Grave Mercy (His Fair Assassins #1) by Robin LaFevers (Young Adult) How I Killed Pluto and Why It Had It Coming by Mike Brown, an Alabama born author. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead – Caldecott Winner
Frances Smith, Youth Services Director: • •
The Frances series: A Bargain for Frances; A Birthday for Frances; Bedtime for Frances By Russell Hoban The David series: No, David!; David Goes to School; It’s Christmas, David! By David Shannon
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Happenings
Local Author, Dena Bedsole
Dena Bedsole wears many hats: she is the wife of Russell Bedsole, city councilor and sheriff deputy; mother of two spunky children, 5 year old Brooks and 4 year old Willa; a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists serving at Brookwood; author of a memoir detailing her personal struggle and loss of her father from pancreatic cancer; and more recently she has become an advocate for raising awareness of Pancreatic Cancer. It is this final hat she wears that has been a driving force in her life recently. “I know I am wearing people out, but it is alright. I know my heart is in the right place,” she shared over a cup of coffee. She recently had the opportunity to raise the level of awareness even higher through a new partnership with Mattress Firm. Starting in late November, the eleven metro Birmingham stores started selling Dena’s book, A New Horizon of an Old View, with all proceeds going to pancreatic cancer research. The book is a memoir of Dena’s journey through her father’s diagnosis and death. “As you read the book, even though it is about cancer, it is really about my spiritual evolution. Where it started and where it ended up,” she shared. The genesis for the book started before her father passed. She thought it would be a good way to grieve and to share the truth of pancreatic cancer. “His cancer,” she said, “was only stage 2 which has a 2.8% survival.” She emphatically added, “At Stage 2!” But she was not without hope and she continued to advocate awareness. “Breast cancer has a 98% survival rate now, but it was a death sentence,” Dena said. “It is going to take making the whole month of November purple,” she adds. The point of the book, really the point of all her efforts, is to raise awareness. The book has just been a method to help her do that. “I’m not interested in writing another one. I feel like I have an excuse to hound people about pancreatic cancer by having this book. It is about raising awareness and raising money,” she said. To help her reach that dual goal of raising awareness and money, she is looking to try a few new endeavors. “We are in the early stages of partnering with local public safety officials about raising awareness,” she said. She also has started the process of applying for a pancreatic cancer car tag. Dena is definitely a go-getter but she is also very realistic. “I’m trying to be cautiously excited. I am fighting an uphill battle for sure,” she pragmatically states. “It has been a struggle. If people are not emotionally affected, they don’t jump on the bandwagon. Then you struggle with, ‘Why aren’t’ they getting on board?’ So I had to pull myself back a few notches,” Dena said in reflection. One of her next goals is to have the 1,100 Mattress Firm locations across the nation start selling the book. She also is looking to raise money at the annual Purplestride 5k
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Author Dena Bedsole with Mattress Firm Sales Associate Tony Brindley stand behind a display of her books.
run. Her team name is Crazie Eddie - in honor of her father whose name was Eddie, but would sometimes say and do the craziest of antics. Last year her whole team dressed up in purple. Even Russell got in on the act. “He ran in a purple tutu,” she said with a laugh. Her team raised the second largest amount for research. She is also available to speak to local groups. “I am especially interested in speaking to church groups,” she said. Dena is dedicated to raising awareness and helping those who have not yet experienced pancreatic cancer to have a better shot of survival. “It’s a marathon. It is not a sprint,” Dena said. For more information visit Dena’s facebook page www.facebook.com A New View of an Old Horizion.
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Kids First Awareness Center
“If you change the way a child thinks, you change his destiny,” said Cindy Hawkins, Executive Director of Kids First Awareness Center. “Our vision for our students is for them to understand that education is the foundation to a better life!” Kids First Awareness Center just received a three-year “No Child Left Behind” grant from the Alabama Department of Education. The federal funding will be used for education and career-readiness development programs established for at-risk students. “Our goal is to incorporate academic preparation with STEM (+A) skills learning projects to help increase math, literacy skills, and careerreadiness as well as to provide health and physical fitness exercise enrichment programs for our youth,” shared Hawkins. STEM (+A) is a program that teaches science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the arts. The big project from the STEM (+A) program is coordinating a musical production. Music teachers are being brought in to teach song writing and instrument techniques to the students. The students will also be introduced to the engineering and robotics of a sound mixing board and stage preparations. The production is tentatively scheduled for either April or May. The funds from the grant will also be used to promote the summer program Summer BELLs (Becoming Educated Leaders for Life). During summer vacation, the center does not want to lose momentum so they reinforce math and reading while expanding critical thinking and leadership skills. The center strives to inspire the “next generation of leaders” to dream to do more than just “get a job.” The volunteers and guest educators coach and encourage the little dreamers to strive to own their own businesses, serve on city councils, run for governor, and dream outside of circumstances. The students are kept involved with the community through service projects. These service projects encourage leadership and other character building foundations necessary for success. Hawkins said that the center is all about character building and helping the students discover their “God-given talents,” and none of this can be done without the support of the parents and the Alabaster community. “Parents and teachers are the ones who bridge the gaps,” she said with a smile. For more information visit: www.kidsfirst123.com or call (205)706-9467
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Happenings
National Merit Competition
By ECCS Junior Maddie Trainor Since their arrival at Evangel Classical Christian School, way back when they were in third grade, Tyler Russell and Drury Bell have been at the top of their very driven class and in constant competition with one another and their classmates. It has been, however, a friendly competition between them and others in their class—truly a Biblical “iron sharpening iron” experience for them all. Drury said, “It is great to be in a class like ours. We are serious about learning, but we are great friends and have a fun time while we are at it.” In the summer of 2012, the summer after their sophomore year, Tyler, Drury, and several other students began prepping together for the PSAT in hopes of making a score high enough to qualify them for the National Merit competition. Tyler and Drury had been exposed to the PSAT in 10th grade when they both took the test – an academic test consisting of five sections and 125 questions. It is known by students for the rigorous questions and tedious bubble fill-ins. Drury knew first hand what type of dedication would be required to earn a score high enough to be named National Merit Semi-Finalist, as he had watched his brother prep just the summer before. Tyler had heard that the PSAT was very hard and a “prep ’til you die” ordeal, and he confesses that he was never absolutely confident that he would qualify. In October of 2012, over 1.5 million juniors, including the ECCS Class of 2014, took the notoriously difficult PSAT. The months of preparation, which had involved meeting weekly with a study group and taking practice tests, paid off. Tyler and Drury were thankful to learn, just this September, that they did qualify as National Merit Semi-finalists. They now have the opportunity to compete with about 16,000 other semi-finalists for over $35 million in scholarships. In their quest to be named finalists, Tyler and Drury have submitted an application that includes their academic records, school involvement, community service, leadership activities, honors and awards, recommendations from teachers, and an essay. They also had to take the SAT college admission test to confirm their PSAT scores. Finalists will be named in the spring, so now Tyler and Drury are back in the waiting game. If they are named Finalists, they will join two other Evangel alumni - Jenny Combs and Charlie Bell who also achieved National Merit Finalist status which is one of the most prestigious scholastic honors high school students in the U.S. can achieve. In fact, both Jenny and Charlie were named National Merit Scholars and each received a $2,500 scholarship from the National Merit Corporation, in addition to scholarships offered to them by the colleges they attended. Tyler and Drury have
10 cityofalabaster.com
ECCS Students Drury, Sydney and Tyler are all competing in the National Merit Competition.
already seen the benefits of being National Merit Semi-finalists, as several of the colleges to which they have applied offer generous scholarships to National Merit winners. Tyler said, “The National Merit Competition has opened many doors in my college search, and it is comforting to know I have great automatic scholarship opportunities to fall back on should I need them.” Tyler and Drury are not the only two out of their study group for whom the preparation helped. Sydney Marvin, another senior, advanced to the level of Commended Scholar. This means she scored in the top 50,000 of those 1.5 million college-bound juniors who took the PSAT in October, 2012. Sydney exclaimed, “I am grateful for the students in the past who set a high bar and for a school that has helped us surpass expectations.” Sydney, Drury, and Tyler join four previous Evangel graduates who have advanced in the National Merit Competition. Bethany Carter (class of 2011) and Jonathan Parker (class of 2013) were Commended Scholars. And as mentioned above, Jenny Combs (class of 2012) and Charlie Bell (class of 2013) were National Merit Finalists. In the school’s first graduating class of 2010, Rachel Ochoa was named a National Hispanic Achievement Winner in the National Merit Competition. That means that of the school’s 64 total seniors in the classes of 2010-2014, a full one-eighth of them have been eligible for some type of National Merit award. This is an outstanding accomplishment for a school as young as ECCS and speaks well of the classical Christian model, their outstanding faculty, and, of course, the student body. As in all things, however, Soli deo Gloria—to God alone be the glory for this success.
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Manna Ministries
The children at Alabaster First United Methodist Church’s preschool are always excited but this morning they are having a special guest which is bringing the excitement to a new level. When Mayor Handlon walks into the sanctuary where the kids are rehearsing for a program they start to shout. When one of the teachers ask the students who she is, one student yells out, “The Mayor”. When they asked the group what that means the student again responds with a shout, “She runs the town!” The reason for the visit is to celebrate the successful food drive for Manna Charities, a non-profit who feeds several hundred families a month. According to the Director Jeannie Walls, the students
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The preschool students at FUMC pose with Mayor Handlon and their collected food items.
gathered enough food to feed dozens of families for a week each. She thought it would be a treat to have their picture taken with the mayor if they met their goal- which they surpassed. As the Mayor settled into a seat surrounded by the children the whole group is surrounded by the bounty of their generosity. Life lessons like this are regularly taught at the preschool which is why so many parents just love the program. Walls has been the director for several years and just enjoys and loves what she does. She drive in each day to work with a joy in her heart that just feeds into the children and their families. As the group of students make their way across the parking lot into the Restore building- the former Winn Dixie that FUMC renovated for a contemporary service- they jostle with each other trying to keep up with the teacher pushing the buggy full of food staples. In the back of the Restore building Manna Charities has a food pantry. Here the students hear from volunteers about what the ministry does and for whom. The highlight of the trip was when they got to unpack the brown sacks and place the items on bare shelves, filling them with new foodstuff. As the students make their way back to their classrooms, Walls reflects on the success the program is having, not just on her kids, but on the world around them. Food drives are just one way that the preschool program is reaching a hurting world around them with the love of Christ. For more information about Manna Charities visit them at fb.com/MannaCharitiesAlabaster For more information on FUMC Preschool call (205) 663-0509.
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Open House Grades 6-12 February 14, 7:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Grammar School (Grades K-5) February 12 & 15, 7:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
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Calendar
Community
January 6 Council, 7 p.m. 7 Water Board, 7 p.m. 8 Court Trials, 9 a.m. 14 Housing & Abatement, 5 p.m. 15 Court Plea Dockets, 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. 21 Council, 7 p.m. 27 Board of Zoning Adjustments, 6:30 p.m. 28 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m. 29 Court Plea Dockets, 9 a.m. & 2 p.m. All meetings are held at 1953 Municipal Way in the Council Chamber View full calendar, agendas and resolutions at www.cityofalabaster.com
Recycling COllection Schedule Red -January 1st-4th, 12th-18th, 26th-31st Blue - January 5th-11th, 19th-25th
Senior Center
The Alabaster Senior Center is located at 1097 7th Street S.W., Alabaster. If you would like more information concerning senior programs, please contact Alabaster Senior Center at 663-1307 or awalters@ cityofalabaster.com. Closed January, 20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 2014 Exercise Class Fees There will be a $2 cost per exercise class beginning in January. You will have the option to pay $2 when you sign in for each class, or you will be able to purchase an exercise punch card – 10 classes for $20. You will then need to bring cash, or the punch card, when you sign up for each class. Civil Rights Museum and Lunch Thursday, January 16 Join us for a tour of the Civil Rights Museum in Birmingham and lunch at Niki’s West. We will be traveling on the 25 passenger bus. Cost is $3 to hold your spot. Bring $5 (cash) for the tour and $10-$12 for lunch. Space is limited.
12 cityofalabaster.com
NEW It’s a TANGLED WORLD January 14th, 21st, 28th, February 4th, 12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Join Jan Rogers for basic classes in creating ZENTANGLE© inspired pen and ink drawings. There are NO MISTAKES! Give up your fears and produce interesting new designs from your practice. This art form allows you to draw and RELAX at the same time. It’s fun, and after four classes you will draw like a pro. You will complete your own pattern for a new (insulated) coffee mug and at least one Valentine’s card for a loved one. Cost is $12/person. Space is limited. Book Club Friday, January 24, 10:00 a.m. We will meet every 4th Friday to discuss the book and introduce a new book. Sign up at the Senior Center. NEW Watercolor Class Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m. All painting levels are welcome. Come learn how to paint with watercolor. $25 for 4 classes each month and includes your paper. Must sign up. Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. Space is limited. Encouraged donation of $2/class. Zumba Gold I Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. A relatively high intensity, low-impact fitness class featuring Latin and World rhythms. Same party flavor as regular Zumba. It results in a great cardio workout that is fun! Cost is $2 per class. NEW Zumba Gold II Wednesdays, 2:15 p.m. New to Zumba Gold? This is the perfect place to get started. Low intensity, low-impact dance/fitness class with an opportunity to break-down and learn basic Latin and World rhythms. Same party flavor and fun as Zumba I. Cost is $2 per class Zumba Gold Toning Fridays, 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Join us for a dynamic class using lightweight resistance training. This class can help participants prevent age-related bone loss, increase muscle strength and definition, decrease body fat, and improve mobility, posture, coordination, and cognition. Cost is $2 per class. Line dancing Thursdays 9:30 a.m. Intermediate class Thursdays 10:30 a.m. Beginner class. No experience necessary. Cost is $2 per class.
You won’t want to miss all the other activities at the Senior Center... Timeless Treasures (singing),–Mondays, 10 a.m. Wii Bowling, Tuesdays, 12 p.m. Rook, Wednesdays, 9 a.m. Arthritis Foundation Exercise, Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Zumba Gold I (exercise) Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. Zumba Gold II (exercise)Wednesdays, 2:15 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Beginner/Inter Line dancing, Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. Beginner Line Dancing, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Bridge, Thursdays, 12-3 p.m. Tempo exercise, Fridays, 10 a.m. Zumba Gold Toning, Fridays 1-2 p.m.
library
The Albert L. Scott Library is located at 100 9th Street N.W., Alabaster. Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday - 9 a.m.-7:50 p.m. Wednesday - 10 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Friday - 9 a.m.-5:50 p.m. Saturday - 10 a.m.-4:50 p.m. Sunday - 1-4:50 p.m. If you would like more information concerning programs, please contact the Library at 664-6822. Closed January, 20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Friends of the Library Meeting Monday, January 13, 6:00 p.m. Library Board Meeting Tuesday, January 28, 6:00 p.m.
Resume Writing Today – January 16, 10 a.m. Interviewing Today – January 23, 10 a.m. Networking Today – January 30, 10 a.m.
Downton Abbey Tea & Trivia January 6, 6:00 p.m. Think you know all there is to know about Downton Abbey? Come test your knowledge and maybe win a prize! Enjoy delicious snacks and teas, and see if you have what it takes to win! Registration is required, so please call 664-6822 to sign up. Cake & Culture – Sunday, January 19, 2014. 2 p.m. Storyteller Dolores Hydock presents Money Talks! Stories of Cold Hard Cash. This program is brought to you by MakingCents – Resources to help your money grow and Smart investing@your library® series, a partnership between the American Library Association and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. Program takes place in the Meeting Room. Refreshments will be served. Identity Theft January 21, 2014. 11:00 a.m. Join us as Ruth Brock, of the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, discusses identity theft – the warning signs, how it happens, how to reduce your risk, and the steps to take if you are a victim of identity theft. This program is brought to you by MakingCents – Resources to help your money grow and Smart investing@your library® series, a partnership between the American Library Association and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation.
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Adult Events
Adult Computer Classes Call or come by to sign up. 664-6822. Wednesday, January 15, 10:00 a.m. – Microsoft Word 2007 Pt. 1 Wednesday, January 29, 10:00 a.m. – Microsoft Word 2007 Pt. 2 Library Book Group Thursday, January 16, 7:00 p.m. Join us in our discussion of Cage of Stars by Jacqueline Mitchard. Her Mormon community was shattered by the brutal murders of her two younger sisters, Veronica Swan severs ties with her family years later in her inability to forgive their killer, a decision that causes her to discover profound truths about sin and compassion. Program takes place in the Meeting Room. Job Search Workshops Join us in the Meeting Room as local expert Fabray Turner, of Turner & Associates in Pelham, leads the following workshops: Job Searching Today – January 9, 10 a.m.
Dr. Robert L. Henderson, Jr.
Dr. Gregory P. Bourgeois
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Free AARP Tax Help for Seniors February through early April Available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Meeting Room. Starting in January, please call or come by the Albert L. Scott Library to sign up. 664-6822.
Parks and Rec
The Parks and Recreation Office is located inside the Depot at 100 Depot Street, Alabaster. Office hours are Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. If you would like more information, call 205-664-6840 or visit www.alabasterparks.org. Closed
youth Events January Delights
Story Times: Wednesdays, 10:15 a.m. Outreach Story Time at area day care centers. Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. Tunes & Tales for all ages in the meeting room; Children six years old and younger must be with an adult
The Parks and Recreation Office and Veterans Skate Park will be closed
Wednesday, January, 1 - New Year’s Day. Monday, January, 20 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
BASKETBALL Youth Basketball games took a break for the holidays; however, they will get back in full swing the first week of January.
Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Toddler Tales in the meeting room; Children must be with an adult.
COACHES NEEDED Volunteer coaches are needed for spring sports including Baseball, Girl’s Softball, and Soccer. If you are interested in coaching, please fill out a coach’s application and submit by January 17, 2014.
Lego® League January 7, 6:00 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Kids of all ages can play with Legos® of all sizes in the meeting room. Children six years old and younger must be with an adult.
Spring SOCCER REGISTRATION Registration January 6-17 Register online at www.alabasterparks.org or in person from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday at the Depot (Parks &
American Girls Club January 7, 4:00 p.m. Girls 7 years old and older can sign up to learn about Kirsten’s World. Come with or without a doll. Meets in the meeting room. 14 cityofalabaster.com
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On the Money: Avoiding College Sticker Shock January 9, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Financial expert Ruth Brock will guide students and their parents through the maze of trying to finance a college education. It’s not only for seniors and juniors, but also for younger high school students and parents so scholarship information doesn’t slip by them. The program is part of MakingCentsResources to help your money grow a Smart investing@your library® partnership between the American Library Association and FINRA Investor Education (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority). This grant project provides free, unbiased information to the community about financial literacy and personal finance. Our library’s resources include new books for children and adults, DVDs, and more. The goal of the project is to empower library patrons to make smart financial decisions for long-term investing and day-to-day money matters. Meets in the meeting room.
Se
Calendar
Library events continued...
Celebrating 25 Years
Recreation Office). Saturday registration is January 11th from 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. at the Depot. New players bring a copy of their birth certificates. Leagues begin at age 4. Registration Fee: $85 for U6/ U8; $105 for U9 & older. Non-residents: additional $10 per child. SPRING BASEBALL/SOFTBALL REGISTRATION Registration January 6-17 Register online at www.alabasterparks.org or in person from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday at the Depot. Saturday registration is January 11th from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Alabaster Senior Center. New players bring a copy of their birth certificates. Registration Fee: $160 -1st child; $130-2nd child; $100-3rd child; $100-5-year-old T-ball; $85 4-year-old T-ball. Baseball Leagues are for ages 4 thru 14 (age as of April 30, 2014). Softball Leagues are for ages 5 thru 12 (age as of Jan. 1, 2014). PAVILIONS FOR RENT Several of our City Parks offer pavilions for rental use. Contact Parks & Recreation for pavilion reservations to ensure your event happens at the location of your choice. Pavilions are reserved for use by permit only. There is a $40 rental fee and a $40 deposit due with your reservation.
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Sc h o o l N e w s
Alabaster School Update After a well-deserved Christmas break, the Alabaster City School System is ready to hit the ground running in the New Year. “I want to first welcome everyone back,” shared Superintendent, Dr. Vickers. “I want to thank the parents for a wonderful first semester. I’m so proud of what we have accomplished. We are surely living up to our tag line of ‘making champions,’” he said. He gives the credit to the support of the faculty, staff, school board, city council, mayor, and the parents and students. Some of the accomplishments that Dr. Vickers is so proud of are the security enhancements that have taken place at all the schools. “I want to reiterate our commitment to safety,” he emphatically stated. He shared two specific examples of this pledge to safety. “With the help of Chief Rigney, the Alabaster Police Department, and the City Council we have been able to place a school resource officer at every city school,” he shared. The school resource officers are there to work with the students and the administration to educate and protect the student body. The second example is the installation of a bell and video system. “Before someone gains access to the school during the day, they must ring the bell, state their purpose, and show identification,” Dr. Vickers stated. This system allows a layer of protection before someone can gain access to the building. “I wish to thank the parents for their cooperation and our schools for their diligence in implementing this service,” he added. For the New Year, the Alabaster City School System has added an additional service for the students. “This semester we have added a smartphone app called ‘Anonymous Alerts.’ It allows students, parents, staff, and faculty to report an incident such as bullying or a personal concern, anonymously,” shared Dr. Vickers. The tip would then be directed to the appropriate person. “So this gives a student, who might not otherwise make that walk to the counselors office or the resource officer, the ability to still be heard,” he proudly said. He added, “We have great kids and a great community, we want to take every precaution to protect our children in Alabaster.”
16 cityofalabaster.com
Teachers of the Year
Every year each school selects, through a committee of its peers, a teacher who embodies the spirit of teaching with excellence and love. This year’s winners are: •
Kathy Matthew, Kindergarten teacher at Meadowview Elementary
•
Karri Allen, Kindergarten teacher at Creekview Elementary
•
Shay Traywick, Fifth Grade teacher at Thompson Intermediate School
•
Melanie Bales, Exceptional Education Teacher at Thompson Sixth Grader Center
•
Amanda Willbanks, Seventh Grade Science Teacher at Thompson Middle School
•
Katie Mantel, Business Teacher at Thompson High School “Congratulations to all our Teachers of the Year” -Dr. Vickers
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Around Town
City Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged)
(Unabridged version of minutes and resoultions/ordinances can be found on city webpage at www.cityofalabaster.com)
Monday, November 4, 2013, at 7:00 p.m. A regular meeting of the Alabaster City Council was held in the Council Chambers at 1953 Municipal Way. Council President Brakefield presided Absent: Russell Bedsole Mayor Comments Mayor Handlon shared a proclamation regarding lung cancer awareness month. This proclamation was presented to Annie Whitfield and Elaine Ethridge. AGENDA ITEMS 1. Ordinance 13-013 One day event license Council President Brakefield opened the public hearing. No one from audience spoke for or against said ordinance. Council Member Rakestraw made a motion to Approve Ordinance 13-013, Council Member Walters seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously Meeting adjourned at 7:15p.m.
Citizen Spotlight Calvin Rumph
Alabaster resident Calvin Rumph is a gentleman and a great presence in Alabaster. He moved to Alabaster 13 years ago with his family after living in downtown Birmingham and in Atlanta. “A lot of my associates questioned why Alabaster and that it was a long way from Birmingham. But after dealing with the traffic and congestion in Atlanta the drive from Alabaster to Birmingham 30 minutes wasn’t a big deal,” he said. He heard about the community from his real estate agent. “At the time Alabaster was booming,” he said, “the subdivision was new, the area was quiet and the people we met were friendly and engaging so I told my wife Edna this was it.” In the time that Rumph has been living in Alabaster he has seen a steady improvement in quality of life. “To have watched the city grow with all of the capital improvements going on is simple amazing. To look at where we are as a community compared Calvin Rumph
Monday, November 18, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. A regular meeting of the Alabaster City Council was held in the Council Chambers at 1953 Municipal Way. Absent: Russell Bedsole, Rick Walters Mayor Comments Mayor Handlon shared comments pertaining to a recently completed quarterly business meeting held in the new facility the previous week as well as information concerning hometown heroes initiative. AGENDA ITEMS 1. Resolution 111813 ATT Franchise Agreement Council Member Martin made a motion to approve Resolution 111813, Council Member Ryals seconded. Abstain – Bob Hicks Motion Passed 2. Resolution 111813-A Library roof repairs Council Member Hicks made a motion to approve Resolution 111813-A, Council Member Rakestraw seconded. Motion Passed Unanimously Audience Comments Ms. Randi Dicus, 409 Ramsgate Drive, presented the Council and Mayor with information and a request pertaining to improvements along US31/Main Street. Meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. 18 cityofalabaster.com
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to what Alabaster was in 2000 is a direct reflection of the outstanding city government and it’s leadership the past and present,” he mused. Adding, “I guess I have grown with the city.” He lists the parks, trails and recreational venues as some of the reasons he loves living here. He also had high praise for Cityfest. “The Alabaster Cityfest celebration is something that our city can be proud of and I encourage everyone in the community to continue to be involved and support it,” he said. Rumph retired from the Federal Government after 34 years of civilian and military service is enjoying retirement. He has a son, Kristopher a senior at Auburn University, and a devoted wife in Edna. Yet that does not mean he is inactive, as anyone that knows Rumph can attest he is not allowing any moss to grow under his feet. He is actively involved in many charitable and community organizations. “I currently serve on the Alabaster Planning and Zoning Commission, Shelby County Citizens Representative on the Birmingham Regional Planning Commission, the Alabaster Arts Council, the United Way of Central Alabama, the Knights of Columbus and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,” he said. When he does have free time he does not just sit around. “I enjoy walking and exploring nature. I donate service hours to my Parish, Catholic Charities and United Way Agencies,” he shared. He also has had the opportunity to attend one of the greatest sporting events in the nation. “I have attended the last 10 NCAA Division 1 Basketball Final Four Tournaments with one of the Birmingham area basketball coaches whom I consider one of my mentors,” he humbly stated. Rumph does not just serve others with his brawn but with his brain as well. “I also spend time in contemplative thought, trying to come up with fresh new ideas that will change this city, the state and the nation by making it better than I found it,” he shared. As he has the opportunity to speak with others about Alabaster he is ready with an answer. “When I am talking to someone about the City of Alabaster, I tell them that it is the largest city in Shelby County with its own school system, rated as ‘100 Best Places to Live’ and the ‘Most Affordable Suburb’ with its own shopping centers,” he shared. He then closes with a rhetorical question, “There are a lot of exciting things happening in Alabaster, why not be a part of it?” Would you like to nominate someone for a Citizen Spotlight? E-mail Mayor Handlon handlon@cityofalabaster.com or Council Member Sophie Martin martin@cityofalabaster.com
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Business Spotlight Bill’s Custom Framing 110 First St S Alabaster AL 35007• 620-0331 Since June of 1990, Bill Smith has owned and operated Bill’s Custom Framing - a framing workshop located on Main Street in Alabaster. If you can name it, they can frame it. “You never know what ‘cha gonna find at Bill’s Custom Framing,” said La Rue Burt, a watercolor artist and framer at Bill’s Custom Framing. “It’s like the pawn shops you see on TV - you never know what’s going to walk through that door,” said Bill about the unique items that he has framed over the years. For its annual business show in Atlanta in
Bill Smith working on one framing a customer’s collection of lures.
1993, Bill’s framed a lifeguard stand, including sand, weighing well over 20 pounds. More recently, the grandson of Al Capone brought 2 bricks, some .50 caliber machinegun shells, and several 8x10 photos from the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre in Chicago for a custom frame. The company has framed pieces for customers around the country. Burt and Smith also shared a memory of a unique frame that they had completed. “A grandfather had a dried pheasant, preserved in his attic,” began Burt as she used her hands to describe the frame from memory. “It was well preserved, but it just wasn’t framed.” Burt and Smith described in detail how the feathers and tail were placed in the frame. From artwork for the Secret Service, and several police departments, to President Bush’s inauguration photos, as well as art pieces in the White House. “We frame for all the local artists, too,” said Smith, while pointing out a frame in progress and sharing the story of the artist. “All the new pictures in the new City Hall and the ones on the memorial wall of the Alabaster Senior Center,” said Smith with a nod of the head. After 23 years, Smith has witnessed the growth and shift of Alabaster’s economy. “The toughest part [of the job] is keeping the doors open. I still charge the same prices that I set in 1993 which was cheap even then,” shared Smith as he crossed his arms and stroked his brow. “We’ve just always been like a ‘Mom-n-Pop’ business, and I just don’t have the heart to raise my prices for the customers. I love my customers. I should’ve been retired,” Smith said, smiling and giving a hearty laugh. “I love my customers too much. Considering my health, I tried to retire three times, but I just can’t make myself leave.”
Around Town
Erica Johnson holds the keys to her new home Erica Johnson and her two daughters Amiyah and Britney Canada are showing off the keys to their new home in addition to a framed picture depicting the homes refurbishment and a bible. They moved into their new home after putting in over 300 hours of “sweat equity”. To qualify with Habitat for Humanity Johnson had to go through a application process. Even after taking ownership of the home she must make mortgage payments to Habitat until the loan they hold is paid off.
thanksgiving at the senior center When Alicia Walters and her staff at the Alabaster Senior Center heard that some of the seniors would be dining alone, they could not allow that to happen. With the consent of her family and volunteer staff, they opened the Alabaster Senior Center to anyone wishing to join them for a traditional Thanksgiving Feast. They served just under 50 seniors and 15 volunteers on Thursday, November 28. They opened the doors at 11 a.m. and served lunch at noon. They had a great time and a lot of community support. Special thanks go to Honey Baked Ham, Walmart, Publix, Jim N Nicks, and several other local community supporters. The number one question they heard was: “Are you going to do it again next year?” To which Walter and her staff responded with a resounding “Yes!”
2013 Christmas parade The theme this year was “Wishin’ For A White Christmas”. Featured in the photos are Grand Marshal, Mr. Jimmy Gould and the winner in the “Most Entertaining” category Joy’s Dance Company; and 2 Blu and The Lucky Stiffs. The winning entries received Santa trophies. The judges this year were Dr. Tom Slaughter from Chiropractic Center in Calera, Debbie Daw from Drummond Company in Birmingham , and June Eggleton from NCP Solutions in Birmingham.
Peyton Johnson
Peyton Johnson, a Thompson High School Senior, signed a letter of intent to play baseball with the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Johnson will be a pitcher for the Chargers. His stats from the 2013 season include: 69 2/3 innings pitched, 7 wins and 1 loss with 2 saves, 57 hits allowed, 26 runs allowed, 19 earn runs, 15 bases on balls, 47 strike outs with a 1.91 earn run avg. Johnson has earned Honorable mention All-County and All-Metro distinctions. In addition to his athletic performance, Johnson has impressive academic accomplishments, with a 4.09 GPA, ACT score of 27, and ranks 28/407 in the Thompson High School Class of 2014.
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Around Town
Employee Spotlight Kelly Ellison
Kelly Ellison is Alabaster’s first finance director. Before Ellison started working for the City this fall, she owned her own highly successful accounting firm. “I loved my clients, working in tax, and helping businesses grow. I had no intentions of ever changing jobs.” When asked what prompted her to apply for the position, she responded with a laugh, “My husband strongly encouraged me to apply. I think he was getting tired of not having a wife during tax season.” Ellison said that after interviewing with the mayor, she had a real peace that this was the direction she was supposed to go. She said selling her business was not an easy thing to do, but she took a step of faith and made the big change. “This has really been a lesson to me about how God opens and closes doors and works out all the details. Last March, I started trying to relocate my CPA firm to a different office, because my current office building was for sale. Every time that I would find a place to relocate something would happen to keep me from signing a long term lease.” Once, she arrived at a prospective location just a few hours after someone else had rented the spot. Another time, she was all set to sign a five year lease on a location and the owner decided, at the last minute, to sell the building. “I was frustrated at the time, but looking back, I now realize that the Lord was keeping me from making the wrong decision. God’s timing is perfect”. Anyone that spends any amount of time with Ellison knows that she is quite passionate about removing red tape. In her capacity as a CPA she saw the number of hurdles a business needs to be aware of to stay compliant. “I really like the opportunity to serve on the inside,” she eagerly said. She added, “Cities can be partners with businesses; working together with the business instead of as an entity to slap them on the hand.” She is hoping to organize many different types of seminars to help local businesses. She recently spoke to local businesses at the mayor’s quarterly meeting where she shared valuable advice on the difference between employees and contract labor and the new one spot sales tax system. Her experience as a small business owner propels her to do everything she can to help other business owners. One of Ellison’s first projects is strengthening internal accounting controls through new policies and procedures. “Just as the city has grown, we are adding more checks and balances,” she shared. To
22 cityofalabaster.com
Kelly Ellison is Alabaster’s first Finance Director.
make all this work she knows that it will take it takes more than just her effort. “We have a great staff here that is very open to change. They have a ton of experience and a strong work ethic,” she said. She quickly added, “They are just a great group to work with.” When Ellison is not at work she is busy with her two teenage boys, who are in 11th and 12th grades, and her husband, who is a nurse at Children’s Hospital. Her family also has a shared desire to make a difference in the world. “My whole family has a real passion for foreign missions.
“We are here for a purpose, and it is not just to waste it on ourselves.” I feel a real calling to improvise areas that have no church in their community,” she said. She has personally gone on seven trips. Her family recently went on a trip to Memphis to work in an inner city community. Her passion for missions came into focus in the slums of Mexico many years ago. “I was on the street holding children in my arms, and • residential reModeling • Licensed & insured
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I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life doing this,” she exclaimed. She is hoping to return to Mexico this summer. Her mission experiences have shaped her world view of giving back. “Going to other countries, and taking my kids, have given us a whole new perception. If you have been blessed, you are blessed to share it, not keep it,” she exclaimed. Reflecting on that thought she added, “We are here for a purpose, and it is not just to waste it on ourselves.”
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